Osprey Elite Series SC (1984-2008 OSPREY) comic books

Volume 1 - 1st printing. "Paras 1940-1984!" Written by Gregor Ferguson. Art by Kevin Lyles. On the night of 7 February 1941 the first British parachute unit was sent into action. Their target was the Tragino Aqueduct in Italy, and although the mission itself did not go to plan, the effect on Italian morale of this landing in the heart of their country was considerable. It was also a valuable achievement for the parachutists to have proved themselves in action, even on so small a scale, at a time when Britain was reeling from defeat to defeat. Since then, British Airborne Forces have proved themselves in action time and time again, in a variety of different theatres from Europe to the Falklands. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 2 - 1st printing. "The US Marine Corps Since 1945!" Written by Lee E Russell. Art by Andy Carroll. Lee E Russell utilises his expert knowledge to guide us through the post-WWII history of the Marines, chronicling their involvement in Korea, Vietnam, Lebanon and Grenada. The account includes such remarkable exploits as the gruelling Chosin Reservoir campaign, which proved a supreme test of courage and discipline with the Marines isolated and overwhelmingly outnumbered in an unhospitable terrain where temperatures reached as low as -35F at night - they nevertheless emerged unbeaten - and the siege of Khe Sanh during the Vietnam conflict, providing a comprehensive overview of the history, organisation, appearance and equipment of these famous troops. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 3 - 1st printing. "The Vikings!" Written by Ian Heath. Art by Angus McBride. In this worthy addition to the Elite series, Ian Heath transports us to the time of the Vikings examining their epic journeys and the ships they made them in, their methods of warfare - the organisation of their armies and tactics employed, their appearance and equipment and the general history of these fascinating warrior-explorers. His authoritative text is backed by many fine illustrations and photographs including 12 stunning full colour plates by Angus McBride, one of the world's most respected military artists. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 4 - 1st printing. "US Army Special Forces 1952-84!" Written by Gordon L. Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad. From its very inception the United States Army Special Forces has been enmeshed in controversy, its mission misunderstood to varying degrees, and its very existence opposed by some of the Army hierarchy. Nevertheless it continues to serve in a highly specialised role in all manner of differing conditions. There can be few better qualified to chronicle the history of this unique organisation than former Special Forces Group weapons specialist Gordon Rottman, whose expert knowledge is clearly evident in this authoritative text. This volume also contains 12 full page colour plates by one of the world's most respected military artists, Ron Volstad. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 5 - 1st printing. "Soviet Bloc Elite Forces!" Written by Steven J. Zaloga. Art by Ronald Volstad. The elite forces of the Soviet Union and its Warsaw Pact allies in the mid-1980s were undoubtedly the largest in the world, and among the least known. The Soviet elite formations alone had a total strength comparable to that of the entire British armed forces. Besides the conventional military elite formations such as airborne and marine forces, most Warsaw Pact armies also possessed special, 'political' elite, which were used for internal security. Backed by numerous photographs and illustrations, this book uncovers the history, organization and equipment of both the conventional Soviet elite formations and the often ignored security units. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 6 - 1st printing. "French Foreign Legion Paratroops!" Written by Martin Windrow. Art by Kevin Lyles. The decision, in Spring 1948, to form two battalions of Foreign Legion paratroopers was prompted by the requirement for enlarged airborne forces in Indochina, and the healthy recruitment then employed by the Legion. There were some initial doubts. The Legion were known to be magnificent heavy infantry, but were felt by some to lack the flexibility and agility demanded by independent airborne operations. In the Legion itself there were some misgivings over the possible clash between the self-consciously exclusive 'para mentality', and the Legion's own very marked ésprit de corps. Over time, however, all these doubts evaporated with experience. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Add to cart Near Mint $9.00

Volume 6 - 2nd and later printings. "French Foreign Legion Paratroops!" Written by Martin Windrow. Art by Kevin Lyles. The decision, in Spring 1948, to form two battalions of Foreign Legion paratroopers was prompted by the requirement for enlarged airborne forces in Indochina, and the healthy recruitment then employed by the Legion. There were some initial doubts. The Legion were known to be magnificent heavy infantry, but were felt by some to lack the flexibility and agility demanded by independent airborne operations. In the Legion itself there were some misgivings over the possible clash between the self-consciously exclusive 'para mentality', and the Legion's own very marked ésprit de corps. Over time, however, all these doubts evaporated with experience. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 7 - 1st printing. "The Ancient Greeks!" Written by Nicholas Sekunda. Art by Angus McBride. The cradle of western civilisation, the ancient Greek world, consisted of a series of independent city states some of which, such as Athens and Sparta, became major world powers. This authoritative volume by Nicholas Sekunda covers Greek warfare in the Classical Period, which stretches from the Greek victories over the Persian Empire to the death of Alexander the Great at the end of the 4th century. The book includes such famous battles such as Marathon, Thermopylae and Salamis and offers a detailed account of Greek military dress during this period, supported by 12 full colour plates by Angus McBride. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 8 - 1st printing."Israeli Defense Forces since 1973!" Written by Sam Katz. Art by Ronald Volstad. Following the devastation of the 1973 Yom Kippur War, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) underwent significant structural and tactical changes in their battle doctrine. In only a few years the IDF evolved into a truly modern fighting force, much better prepared to confront the Palestinian terrorist attacks that were to follow. Written by an ex-soldier of the IDF, this richly illustrated book chronicles the history of the IDF from the outbreak of the Yom Kippur War to the late 1980s, and covers the various units of the IDF including the Paratroop and Infantry Branch, the Engineering Corps and the Armoured Corps. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 9 - 1st printing. "The Normans!" Written by David Nicolle. Art by Angus McBride. Despite the small geographic extent of Normandy its people played a crucial role in the history of the medieval world. Ferocity, boundless energy, cunning and a capacity for leadership were their heritage, to which modern scholars would add supreme adaptability and a simple piety. Their amazing military successes resulted from careful planning, speed of movement, decisiveness, daring and sheer ruthlessness. Added to this was a strong business sense and an appreciation of the value of money. Veteran Osprey author David Nicolle describes the history, arms and armour of the remarkable Normans in this fascinating volume. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 10 - 1st printing. "Warsaw Pact Ground Forces!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad . While much has been published on the armed forces of the USSR during the 1980s, surprisingly little is available on the forces supplied by the other member nations of the Warsaw Pact. Rivalling the size of the United States Army, the combined ground forces of the six non-Soviet Warsaw Pact countries totalled over 775,000 active troops, with almost two million ground forces reserves. This book examines the history, organization and uniforms of the often overlooked DDR, Czechoslovak, Polish, Bulgarian, Hungarian and Romanian forces at the end of the Cold War. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 11 - 1st printing. "Ardennes 1944 Peiper and Skorzeny!" Written by Jean-Paul Pallud. Art by David Parker. From the earliest planning stages of the German counter-offensive in the Ardennes, Hitler was convinced of the importance of taking the Meuse bridges. He resolved that, when his forces broke through the US lines, one special unit should be dressed in American uniforms and issued with American weapons and vehicles. In this guise they could take advantage of the surprise and shock of the breakthrough, and move forward to the Meuse bridges as if they were retreating Americans. Jean-Paul Pallud details their organisation and the fateful sequence of events that followed. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 12 - 1st printing. "Inside the Soviet Army!" Written by Steven J Zaloga. Art by Ronald Volstad. For a young Soviet man in the 1980s, the chances were high that he would be obliged to serve for at least two years in the Soviet Armed Forces. At this time Soviet society was far more militarized than most other European countries; by the time they turned 18, most Soviet boys were far more familiar with military life than their Western European and American counterparts. Focusing on the daily experiences of a young recruit in the Soviet Army of the late 1980s, this book examines the history, organization, appearance and equipment of the Soviet forces, from pre-service indoctrination to uniforms and leadership. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 13 - 1st printing."US Army Rangers & LRRP Units 1942-87!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad.. Ranger - the very word conjures up visions of small, highly trained units executing lightning-fast raids on an unexpecting enemy. It is also synonymous with high esprit de corps and excellence at arms. The US Army Rangers provide units of well-disciplined soldiers who possess the knowledge and courage to operate on their own, deep behind enemy lines. Gordon L. Rottman explores the history of these unique troops, starting with the original 'Rogers' Rangers' company of 1756, whose daring operations and deep penetrations of enemy-held country laid down the pattern for all subsequent Ranger units to follow. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 14 - 1st printing. "The British Army in the 1980's!" By Mike Chappell. The British Army currently enjoys, both at home and abroad, the reputation of being one of the best in the world. Composed entirely of volunteers, its morale sustained by its curious and little-understood attitudes towards tradition, the British Army attracts respect and admiration from the military expert and the layman alike. Written and illustrated by a former British Army infantryman with 22 years' experience, this book details the Army's history, organization, uniforms and distinctions. The text is backed by numerous illustrations and photographs. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 15 - 1st printing. "The Armada Campaign 1588!" Written by John Tincey. Art by Richard Hook. In the latter part of the 16th century, Spain was the major international power and her leader, King Phillip II, pledged to conquer the Protestant heretics in England. He envisioned a two pronged attack. He would send his 'Invincible Armada' of 125 ships into the English Channel where it would link up with the Duke of Parma. The Armada would ferry the Duke's soldiers across the straight of Dover and these troops would march on London, seize the Queen, and proceed to conquer the entire country. Over 400 years have passed since this momentous expedition 'sailed and failed', but its fascination and significance remain undiminished. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 16 - 1st printing. "NATO Armies 1949-87!" Written by Nigel Thomas. Art by Ronald Volstad. The defeat of Hitler on 8 May 1945 left Western Europe militarily vulnerable and economically exhausted. The Soviet Union, however, had since 1940 annexed 180,000 square miles of Eastern Europe, occupied a further 390,000 square miles, and now seemed poised to advance still further westwards with its six-million strong forces. The increasing Soviet threat brought forth demands for a permanent Western Military alliance, and on 4 April 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty was signed in Washington DC. This book explores the history, organization and uniforms of NATO armies - excluding the United States and Great Britain - as they were in the late 1980s. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 17 - 1st printing. "Knights at Tournament!" Written by Christopher Gravett. Art by Angus McBride. Like all warrior classes throughout history medieval knights engaged in military games, partly in preparation for war and partly for pure sport. From their often brutal origins in the 10th century to the gaudy pageantry and eventual decline of the 15th and 16th centuries, tournaments were the centre of the knightly life. The image of the armoured and surcoated knight on his caparisoned charger remains the epitome of the chivalric ideal. Christopher Gravett explores the history of the tournament from its chaotic beginnings to its more formal, 'civilised' incarnation, describing the various 'events' and equipment which came into use. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 18 - 1st printing. "Israeli Elite Units since 1948!" Written by Sam Katz. Art by Ronald Volstad. In 1947, when the UN partitioned Palestine into Jewish and Arab states, the true war for Israel's existence began. Throughout the War of Independence the PAL'MACH (Hebrew abbreviation for 'Strike Companies') spearheaded Israel's forces. Disbanded in 1949, the PAL'MACH was replaced by other specialist units, including paratroop forces, the GOLANI Infantry Brigade, the Naval Commandos, and territorial and other reconnaissance commando formations. An acknowledged expert on the Israeli Defence Forces, Samuel Katz presents an overview of these IDF elite units, including the mysterious SAYERET MAT'KAL, a highly classified elite unit whose exploits involve the 1972 raid on a hijacked Belgian Sabena Boeing 707. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 19 - 1st printing. "The Crusades!" Written by David Nicolle. Art by Richard Hook. Born of a mixture of religious fervour, military ardour and political will, the Crusades remain a fascinating and misunderstood aspect of medieval history. Born amid immense suffering and bloodshed the Kingdom of Jerusalem remained a battlefield for almost 200 years. The Crusades raised to campaign for it gave rise to the Military Orders of the Templars and Hopitallers as well as numerous smaller orders, and were a backdrop to the careers of some of history's most famous leaders including Richard 'The Lionheart' and Saladin. David Nicolle recounts the background and events of these fundamental campaigns that scarred the Late Medieval period. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 20 - 1st printing. "Inside the US Army!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad. When conscription was eliminated in the early 1970s, the US Army found itself with a very different kind of soldier. While the personality of the Army remained the same, the organization of its higher levels of command and combat formations, and the internal structure of its units underwent major changes under the 'Army of Excellence' program of the 1980s. This book explores the US Army of the late 80s, including the training methods, weapon systems, Reserve Components, organization and uniforms of one of the world's most potent fighting forces. The text is illustrated with numerous photographs and eight colour plates. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 21 - 1st printing. "The Zulus!" Written by Ian Knight. Art by Angus McBride 'A very remarkable people, the Zulu', the British Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, said on hearing of a fresh disaster in the war of 1879, 'They defeat our generals; they convert our bishops; they have settled the fate of a great European dynasty'. Remarkable indeed, to have taken on the full might of the British Empire at its height, and won, if not the war, at least some of the battles. This book explains who the Zulus were, and how they achieved the fame as warriors which they enjoy to this day. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 22 - 1st printing. "World Special Forces Insignia!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Simon McCouaig. There exists among the world's armies a proliferation of special forces groups. Today's smaller armies, especially those of developing nations, demand maximum efficiency in force structure and employment. Mountain, jungle, arctic and desert areas require special purpose units trained, conditioned, and equipped to master these environments. This volume by ex-weapons specialist in the US 7th Special Forces Group, Gordon L. Rottman, details the insignia of a myriad of special forces groups from all parts of the globe, from Portugal's Commando Regiment to the North Yemen 'Al Mithalaat' Brigade, with a wealth of illustrations and photographs, including 12 full page colour plates by Simon McCouaig. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 23 - 1st printing. "The Samurai!" Written by Anthony J Bryant. Art by Angus McBride. Perhaps the greatest warriors in history, the Samurai were a product of a social system totally geared to war. The Samurai became expert in fighting both on horseback and on the ground. Their way of life was dictated by the code of Bushido or 'way of the warrior' and clad in their magnificent, multi-coloured armour they were perfectly suited to the violent clan and dynastic warfare that dominated medieval Japan as the most powerful families vied for supremacy. In this title Anthony J Bryant presents a fascinating overview of these truly elite warriors. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Add to cart Very Fine $6.50

Volume 24 - 1st printing. "The Old Contemptibles!" Written by Michael Barthorp. Art by Pierre Turner. On 19 August 1914 Kaiser Wilhelm II ordered General von Kluck, commanding the German First Army, to 'exterminate the treacherous English and walk over General French's contemptible little Army'. The 'Old Contemptibles' adopted the aspersion like a treasured regimental title, their subsequent successes earning them a more accurate evaluation as 'the best trained, best organised and best equipped British Army that ever went forth to war'. This book examines the history, organization and uniforms of the British Expeditionary Force of the early 20th century. The text is accompanied by numerous illustrations, including maps, photographs, and colour plates. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 25 - 1st printing. "Soldiers of the English Civil War Book 1!" Written by Keith Roberts. Art by Angus McBride. When civil war erupted in England in 1642, it quickly involved every level of society throughout the British Isles. On one side the King and his supporters fought for traditional government in Church and State. On the other, the supporters of Parliament sought radical changes in religion and economic policy, and a greater share of power at the national level. This is the first of two volumes in the Elite series exploring the recruitment, organisation, and tactics of the soldiers of the English Civil War. This book opens with an account of the origins of the military theory used by both sides, before discussing the weapons, logistics and management of the infantry throughout the Civil War campaign. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 26 - 1st printing. "Tank War - Central Front NATO vs. Warsaw Pact!" Written by Steven J Zaloga. Art by Simon McCouaig. In the late 1980s, with the Intermediate Nuclear Force Treaty in effect, public attention turned to discussions of conventional weapons in Europe, particularly tanks. Though the importance of tanks had dimished since their heyday in the Second World War, on the modern battlefield they remained the dominant weapon.This text, enhanced by colour plates and photographs, examines the NATO and Warsaw Pact tank forces of that era, focusing on tank firepower and crew training, and speculates as to the possible outcome had a conventional land war been fought between them. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 27 - 1st printing. "Soldiers of the English Civil War Book 2!" Written by John Tincey. Art by Angus McBride. In March 1642 King Charles I, believing that Parliament had gone too far when it issued the Grand Remonstrace, moved to arrest John Pym and four other leaders. That summer Parliament, fearing military action, tried to seize control of the army by issuing orders for soldiers to report to Parliamentary, rather than royal, representatives. The King countered by ordering the bill ignored and raised his own army. Some turned out for the King, some for Parliament, and so the war started. This book examines how the cavalry soldiers of 1642 expected to fight the Civil Wars, and how experience changed their ideas. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 28 - 1st printing. "Medieval Siege Warfare!" Written by Christopher Gravett. Art by Richard Hook. During the Middle Ages siege warfare played a vital role in military strategy. Sieges were far more numerous than pitched battles, ranging from small-scale affairs against palisaded earthworks to full-scale assaults on vast strongholds. Needless to say, the art of siege warfare assumed a unique importance to both invader and defender alike. In this title Christopher Gravett explores the different aspects of medieval siege warfare, from chivalrous formalities to 'surprise and treachery', in a text backed by numerous illustrations including 12 full page colour plates by Richard and Christa Hook. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 29 - 1st printing. "Vietnam Airborne!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad. The Airborne units that fought against the Viet Cong in Vietnam were a select brotherhood. Their ability to respond and move rapidly by air transport or helicopter, combined with their flexibility in ever-changing tactical situations, saved the day in many brutal fights in the jungles, swamps, plains and mountains of Vietnam. This book looks at the history, organization and uniforms of the airborne units in Vietnam. The troops covered include paratroopers, reconnaissance troops and special forces soldiers from the US, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and the Republic of Vietnam. Contemporary photographs and full page colour artwork support the text. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 30 - 1st printing. "Attila and the Nomad Hordes!" Written by David Nicolle. Art by Angus McBride. Of all the conquerors who swept out of Central Asia, two names stand out in European memory - Attila the Hun and Genghis Khan the Mongol. Both are remembered for massacres and devastation; yet whereas Genghis is also famous for the laws he imposed on half of Asia and for the trade which flourished under Mongol rule, Attila's notoriety seems unrelieved by positive achievements. But what was Attila's short-lived empire really like? What happened to the Huns afterwards, and what role did the nomads of Central Asia play in the centuries between Attila and Genghis Khan? Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 31 - 1st printing. "US Army Airborne 1940-90!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad . The first 50 years of the US Army airborne arm is a story of continuing battles with the nation's enemies, of battles within the Army's hierarchy, of change, and of adaptation. If there is any single attribute the airborne soldier can claim as his most sterling, it is his uncanny ability to adapt - his flexibility. The very nature of a paratrooper demands this ability to adapt. The motivation and ésprit de corps it develops within these units is something not to be taken lightly. The first class pairing of Gordon L. Rottman and Ron Volstad bring to life the history of these remarkable troops. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 32 - 1st printing. "British Forces in Zululand 1879!" Written by Ian Knight. Art by Richard Scollins. On 4 March, 1878 at King William's Town, British Kaffraria, Gen. Sir Arthur Cunnynghame handed over supreme command of the British forces in southern Africa to his successor, Lt. Gen. Sir Frederic Thesiger. The High Commissioner, Sir Henry Bartle Frere, was convinced that one solution to the complex problems which beset the region was to overthrow the last powerful independent black kingdom bordering British possessions - the Zulu kingdom of King Cetshwayo KaMapande. However Cetshwayo had remained on the political defensive. This book descirbes the uniforms and equipment of the forces that Thesiger led across the border to wage war in Zululand. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Add to cart Very Fine $6.50

Volume 33 - 1st printing. "South-East Asian Special Forces!" Written by Kenneth Conboy. Art by Simon McCouaig. Elite units have long been prominent in the armies of South-East Asia and, given the turmoil in the region since the 1960s, these forces have had ample opportunity to be tested in combat. Acknowledged expert on South-East Asia Ken Conboy outlines the history, organization and insignia of Vietnamese, Cambodian, Indonesian, Malaysian and various other South-East Asian special forces from their origins up until the late 80s, covering such groups as the Vietnamese Luc Luong Dac Biet ('Special Forces') and Lien Doi Ngoui Nhia underwater demolition team and the Cambodian Airborne Brigade Group. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 34 - 1st printing. "Afrikakorps 1941-43!" Written by Gordon Williamson. Art by Ronald Volstad. The campaign in North Africa between September 1940 and May 1943 holds not only an enduring fascination for postwar generations; but also a perhaps unique degree of nostalgia for some surviving participants. The campaign was no less costly in terms of human lives and material than many others; but regret at the cost is accompanied by positive memories in the minds of many veterans. This is not to suggest that the dead have been forgotten; but an almost mystical bond nevertheless exists, even between former enemies, amongst veterans of the desert campaign. Gordon Williamson examines the history, organisation and uniforms of Rommel's Afrikakorps. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 35 - 1st printing. "Early Samurai AD 200-1500!" Written by Anthony J Bryant. Art by Angus McBride. War played a central part in the history of Japan. Warring clans controlled much of the country. The wars were usually about land, the struggle for control of which eventually gave rise to perhaps the most formidable warriors of all time: the Samurai. Ancient Yayoi warriors developed weapons, armour and a code during the ensuing centuries that became the centrepiece for the Japanese Samurai. Anthony Bryant chronicles the history, arms and armour of these truly élite warriors, from the rise of the Yayoi through the Genpei War between the Minamoto and Taira clans to the Mongol invasions of the 13th century. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 36 - 1st printing. "The Texas Rangers!" Written by Stephen L Hardin. Art by Richard Hook. The Texas Ranger is one of the most cherished symbols of the Lone Star State. While the Alamo is the undisputed symbol of Texas, the Ranger stands as an enduring symbol of the people of Texas. The Rangers were first formed to protect their neighbours from Indian attack, later they fought and died in a war for freedom, and staved off foreign invasion. Some Rangers died with glory at the Alamo, while many more were wounded, or died, in anonymity at dozens of obscure places. This volume by Dr Stephen L Hardin charts the history of this remarkable force from the 1820s through to the present day. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 37 - 1st printing. "Panama 1989-90!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad. In December 1989 US Army forces, supported by the US Air Force and US Navy, participated in Operation 'Just Cause'--the invasion of Panama. A combination of airborne, helicopter and ground assaults quickly secured key objectives and eliminated organized resistance. Beginning with a brief history of US-Panama relations and the development of the Panamanian Defense Forces, this book focuses principally on the military aspects of Operation 'Just Cause', and ends with a summary of the conflict's aftermath. Numerous photographs, and detailed color plates depict the actions of the armed forces units that executed this difficult, and controversial, operation. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 38 - 1st printing. "The NVA and Viet Cong!" Written by Kenneth Conboy. Art by Simon McCouaig. In 1940 Japan placed Vietnam under military occupation, restricting the local French administration to a figurehead authority. Seizing the opportunity, the Communists organised a Vietnamese independence league, the Viet Minh, whose armed forces became known as the PAVN (more commonly known to the West as the Vietcong, or NVA) and prepared to launch an uprising against the French at the war's end. This text details the history, organisation and uniforms of the People's Army of Vietnam from its origins in the fight against colonialism, through two separate wars against the US and Khmer Rouge, to its role in the modern era. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 39 - 1st printing. "The Ancient Assyrians!" Written by Mark Healy. Art by Angus McBride. For the greater part of the period from the end of the 10th century to the 7th century BC, the Ancient Near East was dominated by the dynamic military power of Assyria. At the zenith of its rule Assyria could lay claim to an empire that stretched from Egypt in the west to the borders of Iran in the east and encompassed for the first time in history, within the realm of a single imperial domain, the whole of the 'Fertile Crescent'. Mark Healy, covers the history of the Assyrians from their ancient beginnings to the eventual fall of the city of Nineveh. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 40 - 1st printing. "New Kingdom Egypt!" Written by Mark Healy. Art by Angus McBride. Builders of the Pyramids and most ancient of all the powers of the biblical world, the Egyptians remain one of history's most fascinating and enigmatic peoples. During the New Kingdom era, Egypt reached the peak of its power, wealth, and territory. Through the intensive military campaigns of Pharaoh Thutmose III (1490-1436BC), Palestine, Syria, and the northern Euphrates area in Mesopotamia were all brought within the New Kingdom. Mark Healy outlines the history, organisation and dress of the New Kingdom Egyptians in this volume packed with accompanying illustrations and photographs, including 12 full page colour plates by the ever popular Angus McBride. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 41 - 1st printing. "Elite Forces of India and Pakistan!" Written by Kenneth Conboy. Art by Paul Hannon. Influenced by the German use of paratroopers early in World War Two, General Sir Robert Cassels, the Commander-in-Chief India, ordered the formation of an airborne cadre in October 1940. Thus marked the origins of India's first élite units. Pakistan can trace the origins of its own army airborne to the common parentage of British-raised forces. Following the partition from India in August 1947, it raised its own Special Service Group, with individually specialised companies including desert, mountain, ranger and underwater warfare units. This remarkable volume by Kenneth Conboy details the history, organisation, uniforms and insignia of the élite forces of India and Pakistan. Also covered are the elite forces of Afghanistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Add to cart Near Mint $9.00

Add to cart Near Mint $9.00

Volume 41 -2nd and later printings. "Elite Forces of India and Pakistan!" Written by Kenneth Conboy. Art by Paul Hannon. Influenced by the German use of paratroopers early in World War Two, General Sir Robert Cassels, the Commander-in-Chief India, ordered the formation of an airborne cadre in October 1940. Thus marked the origins of India's first élite units. Pakistan can trace the origins of its own army airborne to the common parentage of British-raised forces. Following the partition from India in August 1947, it raised its own Special Service Group, with individually specialised companies including desert, mountain, ranger and underwater warfare units. This remarkable volume by Kenneth Conboy details the history, organisation, uniforms and insignia of the élite forces of India and Pakistan. Also covered are the elite forces of Afghanistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Softcover, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 42 - 1st printing. "The Persian Army 560-330 BC!" Written by Nicholas Sekunda. Art by Simon Chew. The Persian Empire grew in the vacuum left by Assyria's destruction of the Kingdom of Elam. Prince Teispes captured Anshan, once a stonghold of the Elamites. His father, Achaemenes is the person who is apparently responsible for training and organising the early Persian army and it is his name that is the beginning of the royal line of Achaemenian Kings. It is a dynasty which includes Darius the Great - the finest ruler of the Achaemenid era. The army he commanded included the infamous 'Immortals', who formed the elite of the Persian army, their numbers always kept to exactly 10,000 men. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 43 - 1st printing. "Vietnam Marines 1965-73!" Written by Charles Melson. Art by Paul Hannon. The period following World War 2 saw a number of associated Marine Corps, three of whom fought together during the war in Vietnam from 1965 to 1973. These Corps were similar formations, but each had its own history and traditions: they were the United States Marines, the Vietnamese Marines, and the Korean Marines. Common to them was a reputation for toughness on themselves and any foreign or domestic enemies; strong unit pride and loyalty; and a privileged place within the political structure of their respective countries. This title by US Marine historian Charles Melson describes the history, weapons, equipment, uniforms and insignia of the US, Vietnamese and Korean Marines who fought in Vietnam. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 44 - 1st printing. "Security Forces in Northern Ireland 1969-92!" Written by Tim Ripley. Art by Mike Chappell. The conflict in Northern Ireland remains unlike any other campaign conducted by the British Army this century. There have been no set-piece battles, no decisive victories or crushing defeats; just a grinding, relentless series of small scale operations in response to riots, bombings, sectarian murders and terrorist ambushes. Tim Ripley, a specialist in modern military affairs and research associate at Lancaster University's Centre for Defence and International Security Studies, profiles the operations, tactics, uniforms and equipment of the British and Irish Security Forces and the main terrorist groups involved in 'the Troubles' from 1969-92. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 45 - 1st printing. "Armies of the Gulf War!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Ronald Volstad. Besides continuing a long history of world-wide peacekeeping, the commitment of US troops to the Gulf reunified the country and restored a national pride lost in the aftermath of Vietnam. It also proved that the US armed forces were again the most capable military force in the world. This volume by veteran Osprey author Gordon L. Rottman focuses on the structure, equipment, effectiveness, and employment of the 680,000 coalition troops which fought in the Gulf War, covering not only the US forces, but also those of Britain, France, the Arab League and Iraq. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 46 - 1st printing. "US Army Air Force Book 1!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Francis Chin. In June 1941 the US Army's air organisations were consolidated under a single command, the Army Air Forces or AAF. Its expansion was rapid and massive, and its contribution to the war effort was substantial. Books abound describing the AAF's impressive combat record, but little has been published to record what the men inside the machines wore to stay alive and effective in the air and on the ground, or, as often as not, in the water. Gordon L. Rottman's detailed treatment discusses the flying clothes, accessories and equipment worn and used by individual airmen fighting their often desperate battles in the sky. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 47 - 1st printing. "South African Special Forces!" Written by Robert Pitta. Art by Simon McCouaig. This book provides a highly detailed account of the history, organisation, uniforms and insignia of South African Special Forces from their origins up to the early 90s - units such as the 44 Parachute Brigade, the Hunter Group and the infamous SWA Police COIN Unit 'Koevoet'. These elite units of the South African Defence Force and the special anti-terrorist units of the South African Police Forces comprised the largest, best trained and best equipped of any country in southern Africa. Robert Pitta and Jeff Fannell provide the text in a volume packed with photographs and illustrations. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 48 - 1st printing. "Nelson's Navy!" Written by Philip Haythornthwaite. Art by Bill Younghusband. Despite the many celebrated victories of the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars, the role of the Royal Navy should never be overlooked. The 'wooden walls' formed the country's first and most important line of defence, and ranged throughout the world to protect Britain's trade-routes and in support of the land forces and overseas possessions. This book covers the huge variations in uniforms not just in the Navy but the Royal Marines and Infantry regiments which served alongside naval crews. It also looks at the organisation, training and recruitment of the force and corrects a number of misconceptions regarding impressment and training. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 49 - 1st printing. "The Gurkhas!" By Mike Chappell. The origins of the Gurkhas date back to 1815, when one of the most skilled and determined opponents that the British soldier had to overcome in battle was the Nepalese warrior. The British were so impressed with the military skills of these fighters that they began recruiting units exclusively from Nepal. From this beginning grew the now famous Gurkha units. This volume examines the development of the Gurkhas through the various wars and confrontations of the 19th century, through the First World War, Second World War and the various postwar conflicts including Malaya, Borneo and the Falklands. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Add to cart Fine $5.80

Volume 50 - 1st printing. "The Praetorian Guard!" Written by Boris Rankov. Art by Richard Hook. The Praetorian Guard of Imperial Rome was the power behind the throne, with the ability to make or break an emperor. As the main body of troops in Rome, they were the emperor's instrument to discourage plotting and rebellion and to crush unrest. The emperor's most immediate line of defence, they could also be his most deadly enemies. This book details the organization, dress and history of the Praetorian Guard from the time of the late Republic to the Guard's effective destruction at the battle of Milvian Bridge in AD 312. Numerous illustrations vividly depict the uniforms and weaponry of this elite fighting unit. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.