ISBN10: 1841769681, ISBN13: 9781841769684, [publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC, United Kingdom] Softcover This famous but little-published unit was formed with three battalions in July 1942, for special operations in occupied Norway, from handpicked US and Canadian volunteers who were trained in parachute, amphibious, ski, mountain and demolition operations. The force first saw combat in Italy where they distinguished themselves, at heavy cost, in the battles of La Difensa (Dec 1943), Mte Majo (Jan 1944), the Anzio beachhead (Feb-May 1944) and the race to Rome. They fought with a ferocious skill which earned them a fearsome reputation. At Anzio, although at only half strength, they successfully held at least a quarter of the entire beachhead and were the spearhead of the final breakout towards Rome. Famed for their nightime fighting ability, the Germans named them "Die Schwartze Teuflen" - the Black Devils. Their uniforms, clothing and weaponry had many unique features to reflect their unique bi-national component and specialist skills. The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged.
[Goring-By-Sea, WS, United Kingdom] [Publication Year: 2006]

ISBN10: 1841769681, ISBN13: 9781841769684, [publisher: Osprey] Softcover Osprey Elite - 20th Century - World War II First Special Service Force 1942-44 (MINT/New)Manufacturer: OspreyProduct Line: Elite - 20th Century - World War IIType: SoftcoverCode: OSPELI145Copyright Date: 2006Author: Bret WernerPage Count: 64Please review the condition and any condition notes for the exact condition of this item. All pictures are stock photos. The condition of the item you will receive is MINT/New. Our grading system is explained in the terms of sale section of our bookseller page. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. Product Description:This is a concise history of the unique integrated commando-style brigade of US and Canadian volunteers formed in 1942. Hand picked, and trained in airborne, amphibious, mountain and winter warfare, demolitions and close-quarter tactics, they left a combat legacy still recognized amongst today's Special Forces. This book explores the remarkable results the FSSF achieved in Italy - in the harsh mountain fighting on the Winter Line, in the trenches of Anzio, and in the breakthrough to Rome. Accompanied by unique combat photography and illustrations of their distinctive uniforms, this is an insight into a famous, but little explored unit.
[Fitchburg, WI, U.S.A.] [Publication Year: 1999]