Marine Recon 1940–90

Ex-Marine Charles D Melson examines the history, equipment and insignia of the Marines' amphibious and ground long-range patrol reconnaissance specialists, alongside photographs and colour plates.

Describes and analyzes the history, uniforms, weaponry and military practices of the Marine reconnaissance units, first used during World War II. They consisted of highly-skilled soldiers with the job of reconnoitring proposed targets for amphibious assaults.

In 1976 Maj. James Capers Jr. welcomed new men and their families into a force reconnaissance company.

'Only the most capable Marines are selected for this duty due to rigid mental and physical demands. A very thorough screening of each applicant is conducted … to test alertness and endurance. The result is a small elite unit with highly qualified Marines who are considered the best in the world'.

Ex-Marine Charles D Melson examines the history, equipment and insignia of the Marines' amphibious and ground long-range patrol reconnaissance specialists in this volume which contains a wealth of photographs and 12 full page colour plates by Paul Hannon.