Comic books in 'War'

Volume 35 - 1st printing. "F-105 Wild Weasel vs SA-2 'Guideline' SAM!" Written by Peter Davies. Art by Jim Laurier, and Gareth Hector. The Vietnam war was the first conflict that saw extensive use of surface-to-air anti-aircraft missiles, and thus became a training ground for the tactics of this new type of battle. This Duel presents this story in the context of two of the main opponents: America's top fighter-bomber and the NVA's best anti-aircraft missile. Softcover, 80 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 36 - 1st printing. "SPAD VII vs Albatros D III!" Written by Jon Guttman. Art by Jim Laurier. When originally conceived, the French SPAD VII and German Albatros D II represented steps away from an emphasis on manoeuvre in aerial combat in favour of speed and durability. At the end of 1916, however, Albatros tried to have the best of both worlds. The result combined the better downward view and manoeuvrability of the Nieuport with the power and twin machine guns of the Albatros D II. At the same time, the French worked to improve the SPAD VII with more power and a more reliable cooling system before moving on to the twin-gunned SPAD XIII. While all that was going on, the Albatros D III became a mainstay of the German and Austro-Hungarian air services in frequent encounters with SPAD VIIs flown by French, Belgian, British, Italian and American airmen. Softcover, 80 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 37 - 1st printing. "King Tiger vs IS-2!" Written by David R. Higgins. Art by Jim Laurier and Peter Dennis. This book examines the technology and strategy that defined the outcome of the battles between the King Tiger and the IS-2. The Soviets had been quick to develop tanks that could fight the Tiger on an equal footing, but these were developed as part of a completely different strategy than that employed by the Germans. The King Tiger was a modern marvel, and remained unmatched in one-on-one combat. Technologically superior, with greater firepower and better armour than the Soviet IS-2, the King Tiger was a formidable opponent. However, the IS-2 was lighter, more manoeuvrable and most importantly, far more numerous. With overwhelming numerical superiority the Soviets were able to simply overwhelm their opponents, negating the technical superiority of the King Tiger. Softcover, 80 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 38 - 1st printing. "P-40 Warhawk vs Bf 109!" Written by Carl Molesworth. Art by Jim Laurier and Gareth Hector. Although the P-40 and the Bf 109 joined the air war over North Africa at nearly the same time in 1941, the German fighter had already racked up a considerable combat career, dating back to 1937 in Spain. In contrast, the P-40 was a bit of an unknown quantity and was making its combat debut in the hands of the RAF's Desert Air Force. Discover how the huge differences between the veteran Bf 109 and the new P-40 determined the tactics they adopted and the ultimate outcome of their epic confrontation in this new book. The author covers all aspects of the aerial battle, from the small, agile Bf 109's ability to operate more effectively at high altitudes through to the P-40's advantage in manoeuvrability, which outweighed its poor high altitude performance. Softcover, 80 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 39 - 1st printing. "La-5/7 vs Fw 190!" Written by Dmitriy Khazanov, and Aleksander Medved. Art by Jim Laurier, Andrey Yurgenson, and Gareth Hector. Soviet fighter aviation suffered terribly at the hands of the Jagdwaffe in the first year of the war in the east and, with the arrival of JG 51 and its Fw 190s on the Stalingrad Front in September 1942, things only got worse. However, help was on its way in the form of the La-5. Tougher, faster, and with a greater rate of climb than its predecessors, most were flow by a new generation of better-trained pilots led by combat veterans. These new fighters soon found themselves pitted into action on the Central Sector against the equally new Fw 190As of JG 51. From then on, these two fighters would battle it out in the skies over the Eastern Front. This book tells the complete story of the battles between these two important fighters. Softcover, 80 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 40 - 1st printing. "CSS Alabama vs USS Kearsarge!" Written by Mark Lardas. Art by Peter Dennis. The most successful commerce raider of the Civil War, the CSS Alabama almost single-handedly drove United States merchant shipping from the seas. Her illustrious career saw the capture of 60 merchant ships and two duels with ships of the US Navy. This book gives the complete story of the development of the Confederacy's commerce raiding force and the ships the Union set against them. Compiled from numerous first-hand accounts as well as archeological evidence, it covers the three famous battles of the commerce raiders, CSS Florida vs. USS Wachusett, CSS Alabama vs. USS Hatteras, and CSS Alabama vs. USS Kearsarge, analyzing the strengths and weakness of each of the combatants. While the American Civil War is usually considered a land war, there was plenty of blood in the water. Softcover, 80 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

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 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 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 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.

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Add to cart Near Mint $3.00

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 56 - 2nd and later printings. "Scottish Divisions in the World Wars!" By Mike Chappell. Over the centuries of their existence the Scottish regiments of the British Army have gained a reputation in war that is the envy of all and which can be matched, or surpassed, by very few. The very description 'Scottish soldier' conjures up images ranging from the 'thin red streak tipped with a line of steel' of the 93rd Highlanders at Balaclava, and the charge of the Scots greys at Waterloo, to the more recent deeds of Scottish regiments in the Falkland Islands and the Persian Gulf. Mike Chappell chronicles the remarkable history of the Scottish units which fought in the two world wars.. Softcover, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 57 - 1st printing. "The Royal Marines 1939-93!" Written by Nick van der Bijl. Art by Paul Hannon. The origin of the Royal Marines dates back to the formation of the Admiral's Regiment in the 17th century. Since then Marines have participated in more battles on land and sea than any other branch of the British Armed Forces. Their 'elite' status rests in the commandos - the one formation that is trained to be delivered to battle by helicopter or landing craft from ships. This book examines the units, organization and operations of the Royal Marines, focusing on their activity in World War II's various theatres and their post-war operations in Northern Ireland, the Falklands and the Gulf. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 58 - 2nd and later printings. "The Janissaries!" Written by David Nicolle. Art by Christa Hook. The Janissaries comprised an élite corps in the service of the Ottoman Empire. It was composed of war captives and Christian youths pressed into service; all of whom were converted to Islam and trained under the strictest discipline. In many ways, Jannisaries reflected Ottoman society, which was itself dominated by a military elite and where there was much greater social mobility than in Europe. On top of this, the Turks looked upon Europe much as the early Americans viewed the Western Frontier - as a land of adventure, mission and opportunity. David Nicolle examines the history, organisation, weapons and uniforms of these élite Turkish troops.. Softcover, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 59 - 2nd and later printings. "US Marine Corps 1941-45!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Mike Chappell. While the US Marine Corps was one of the smallest of American armed services in World War II, its contribution to the final victory cannot be overstated. The US Marine Corps may have only comprised 5 percent of America's armed forces, but it suffered 10 percent of all World War II combat casualties. Above all, he amphibious nature of the war in the Pacific imposed on the Marine Corps greater tasks than any it had ever before been called upon to perform. This title details the organization, weapons and equipment of the US Marines of World War II Softcover,96 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 62 -2nd and later printings. "American Civil War Zouaves!" Written by Robin Smith. Art by Bill Younghusband. Among the mass of units formed in the early months of the American Civil War were several of the colourful Zouave units. Inspired by the French colonial units raised in North Africa with their distinctive uniforms and reputation as hard fighters, units with names as colourful as their uniforms began to appear. In this volume Robin Smith details the uniforms and battles of these flamboyant units. Bill Younghusband is rapidly establishing himself as one of the most popular illustrators of 18th and 19th century military subjects, and has already contributed to a number of Osprey titles Softcover, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 64 - 1st printing. "Army Commandos 1940-45!" By Mike Chappell. The period from early 1940 to the end of 1942 was a time of gloom and uncertainty for the British, who stood alone against the assembled might of the Axis powers. They badly needed a champion, and were to find this in a small force of soldiers who inspired them with a series of daring raids against the coasts of 'occupied Europe', becoming the heroes of the British public and of the British Prime Minister who had created them. This title explores the wartime history of the British Army Commandos whose bravery did so much to raise the morale of the British public. Softcover, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 68 - 1st printing. "The Military Sniper since 1914!" Written by Angus Konstam. Art by Angus McBride. It was only in World War I that the combination of high quality service rifles and new telescopic sights brought the true 'sniper' to the battlefield as a distinct specialist. By 1918 the scout-sniper's value as an observer and gatherer of intelligence was as important as his lethal skills, but these were disregarded in the interwar years. From 1939-45 most armies had to train and equip snipers from scratch, but they were to play a major role in all theatres of war. Famously, on the Russian Front it was a role in which women excelled. This title recounts the development of weapons, sights, tactics and clothing in all the major armies, from Flanders to the Gulf. Softcover,64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 71 - 1st printing. "Queen Victoria's Commanders!" Written by Michael Barthorp. Art by Douglas Anderson. Michael Barthorp's entertaining and authoritative study includes key commanders such as (India 1837-56) Charles Napier, Hugh Gough, Harry Smith; (Crimean War) Lord Raglan, James Scarlett, George Cathcart, John Pennefather; (Indian Mutiny) John Nicholson, Henry Havelock, Hope Grant, Colin Campbell; (India 1860-98) Frederick Roberts; (Africa) Robert Napier, Garnet Wolseley, Herbert Stewart, Evelyn Wood, Redvers Buller, Hector Macdonald and Herbert Kitchener - among others. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 73 - 1st printing. "American Civil War Commanders Part 1!" Written by Philip Katcher. Art by Richard Hook. When the War Between the States broke out in 1861, the US Army had only four line generals - and only one of them was not a septuagenarian veteran of the War of 1812. With about one-third of all professional officers choosing to offer their swords to the South, the government's urgent need to find commanders for the vastly expanded Federal army put generals' stars on the shoulders of men of very varied backgrounds and talents. In time the shock of war would separate the born leaders from the over-promoted and the political opportunists. This first of four volumes examines the careers and often colorful personalities of nearly 30 Union generals whose service was mainly in the Eastern theater of war. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 76 - 1st printing. "The German Freikorps 1918-23!" Written by Carlos Caballero Jurado . Art by Ramiro Bujeiro. The troops returning home to Germany after the 1918 Armistice found their country riven by internal unrest, and its eastern borders threatened. Though reluctant to support the new Republic, the many Free Corps formed by ex-Imperial soldiers fought furiously against Communist revolutionaries at home and Polish and Bolshevik Russian pressure on the frontiers. Later providing much of the manpower for the new Reichswehr, the Free Corps would have strong links with the nascent Nazi Party. This concise account of a little-known but central episode in the history of 20th century Germany is illustrated with rare photographs, and ten colour plates showing unprecedented details of uniforms and insignia. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

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Add to cart Near Mint $3.00

Volume 77 - 1st printing. "British Colours & Standards 1747-1881 Part 1!" Written by Ian Sumner. Art by Richard Hook. In this first of a two-part sequence a respected vexillologist describes, explains and illustrates a wide variety of the standards and guidons carried during the 18th and 19th centuries by British Household, Regular, Yeomanry and Volunteer cavalry units. The successive regulations between 1747 and 1868 are supported by tables of 'ancient badges' and battle honours; by many examples of non-regulation practice (in the cavalier tradition of the British cavalry); and by ten dazzling plates by Richard Hook, detailing some 35 flags in full colour. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 79 - 1st printing. "The Royal Navy 1939-45!" Written by Ian Sumner . Art by Alix Baker. The outbreak of war found the Royal Navy with world-wide responsibilities but, despite its legendary professionalism, out-of-date strategic doctrines. Despite some early clashes between capital ships, advances in submarine warfare and naval aviation would soon come to dominate the war at sea. By mid-1943, however, the Royal Navy dominated the Mediterranean, was winning the campaign against the Atlantic U-boats, and was convoying vast quantities of war material across the Atlantic and to Russia. The 'senior service' made a huge contribution to the D-Day landings, and sent strong units to support the USN in the final campaigns against Japan. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 80 - 1st printing. "The US Navy in World War II!" Written by Mark Henry. Art by Ramiro Bujeiro. In 1941 the US Navy had 17 battleships - of which eight would be knocked out on the first day of the war - four aircraft carriers, and about 340,000 men including reservists. Pearl Harbor so weakened it that it was unable to prevent the Japanese capture of the Philippines and a vast sweep of Pacific islands. By 1945 it was the strongest navy the world had ever seen, with nearly 100 carriers, 41,000 aircraft and 3.3 million men; the unrivalled master of air-sea and amphibious operations, it was poised to invade Japan's home islands after reducing her fleet to scrap and her Pacific empire to impotence and starvation. This extraordinary story is illustrated here with dramatic photos, and nine meticulous colour plates showing a wide range of USN uniforms. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

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Add to cart Near Mint $4.00

Volume 81 - 1st printing. "British Colours & Standards 1747-1881 Part 2!" Written by Ian Sumner . Art by Richard Hook. In this second of a two-part sequence a respected vexillologist describes, explains and illustrates a wide variety of the King's and Regimental colours carried during the 18th and 19th centuries by British Household, Regular, Militia and Volunteer infantry regiments. The successive regulations between 1747 and 1881 - when the carrying of colours in the field ceased - are supported by comprehensive tables of 'ancient badges' and battle honours; many careful drawings; and by ten dazzling plates by Richard Hook, detailing some 35 flags in full colour, as well as a number of famous colour-bearers. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 85 - 1st printing. "US Commanders of World War II Part 1!" Written by James Arnold Robert Hargis. Art by Darko Pavlovic. To be a successful commander requires experience, character, tenacity and boldness: the ability to establish a good rapport with both your staff and your men is also vital. The real test comes in combat though, where a large proportion of luck is involved - the luck to be in the right place at the right time - and lasting reputations can be formed in a very brief and frenetic period. The key US commanders of World War II were subject to (and often gratuitously fostered) the projection of their 'characters', exploiting the growing power of the media. This title examines the careers, personalities and fortunes of the key US Army and Air Force commanders of World War II. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 86 - 1st printing. "Japanese Naval Aviation Uniforms and Equipment 1937-45!" Written by Gary Nila. Art by Bill Younghusband. This long awaited title provides a fantastic reference resource on the uniforms, dress, flight gear and personal weaponry of the Imperial Japanese Navy airmen of World War II. It includes detailed descriptions of flight gear, including manufacture information, and interviews with IJN pilots such as Sakai, Komachi, Tanimizu, Kawato and Saito regarding the use of a variety of equipment are integrated into the text. Packed with great contemporary illustrations, photographs of original items, and colour pictures, this title provides a meticulously detailed examination of the dress and equipment of the Imperial Japanese Navy's aviators in World War II. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 87 - 1st printing. "US Commanders of World War II Part 2!" Written by James Arnold Robert Hargis. Art by Darko Pavlovic. This title, the second of two looking at US commanders of World War II, examines the combat careers, personalities, uniforms, dress and appearance of the key US naval and Marine commanders. These men played a crucial role in the defeat of the Axis powers, particularly in the Pacific theater during such battles as Guadalcanal, Tarawa and Iwo Jima. Among those covered are Holland Smith, Lemuel Shepherd, Roy S. Geiger; John D. Bulkeley, Bull Halsey, Thomas Hart, Husband Kimmel, Charles Lockwood, Marc A. Mitscher, Chester Nimitz, Norman Scott, Raymond Spruance, Wade McCluskey, and Theodore Wilkinson. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 88 - 1st printing. "American Civil War Commanders Part 2!" Written by Philip Katcher. Art by Richard Hook. The generals who led the brigades, divisions, corps and armies of the Confederacy were very largely products of the same professional backgrounds as their opponents in Union blue - indeed, many of them were former West Point classmates and brother officers in the pre-war US Army, who had served together on the frontier or in the Mexican War. In terms of field experience they were also similar to the vast majority of Union commanders - none of them had ever commanded so much as a brigade before 1861, and they had to learn by trial and error. Some whose pre-war record had promised much were to fail the test of war; some more obscure officers were to rise to the challenge remarkably. This first of two volumes devoted to the Confederate generals details the careers, personalities and appearance of 25 commanders who made their names mainly with the Army of Northern Virginia in the Eastern theater of war. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 91 - 1st printing. "US Army Frontier Scouts 1840-1921!" Written by Ron Field. Art by Richard Hook. The role of the Frontier scout in the US Army during the period of westward expansion, was often far more important than that of the commanding officer. They possessed a priceless knowledge of the geography, people and characteristics of the great, unknown American hinterland and from the earliest days of exploration, the US Army depended on its scouts to guide troops across the plains and through the mountains as they guarded the nation's frontier settlements. This book tells the colourful story of these frontier men, covering many famous scouts such as 'Wild Bill' Hickok and 'Buffalo Bill' Cody. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 92 - 1st printing. "World War II Medal of Honor Recipients Part 1!" Written by Robert Hargis Starr Sinton. Art by Ramiro Bujeiro. The Medal of Honor is the highest military award that can be bestowed on personnel in the United States' Armed Forces. This book is the first of two titles looking at the recipients of the Medal of Honor during World War II. It covers Navy and Marine Corps awardees in all theaters of war, from the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 to the brutal fighting on Iwo Jima in 1945. Among the inspiring stories told are those of Signalman 1st Class Douglas Munro, the only Coast Guardsman to ever receive the Medal of Honor, and Commander Antrim, who faced almost certain death to save fellow prisoners in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 93 - 1st printing. "American War of Independence Commanders!" Written by René Chartrand. Art by Richard Hook. The commanders who led the opposing armies of the American War of Independence came from remarkably different backgrounds. They included not only men from Britain and America, but from Germany, France and Spain as well. Some were from the great families of the Old World, while others were frontiersmen or farmers in the New World. Despite their differing origins, all were leaders in the events that led to the establishment of the United States of America. This book details the appearance, careers and personalities of the commanders on both sides. It covers such famous figures as George Washington and Lord Cornwallis along with less well-known men such as Admiral Suffren and Bernando de Galvez. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 94 - 1st printing. "American Civil War Commanders Part 4!" Written by Philip Katcher. Art by Richard Hook. n the Western theater of war the Confederacy had the misfortune to face, with inferior resources, some of the outstanding Union leaders early in their careers. The Southern commanders who faced Grant, Sherman and Sheridan in these campaigns were of varied backgrounds and talents: some had been sent West in disfavour, others were foolishly quarrelsome, and after A.S.Johnston's death at Shiloh there was no single figure with the authority to dominate them. Some were nevertheless of the highest class: men like Joseph E.Johnston, the cavalry leader Nathan Bedford Forrest, and the little known Patrick Cleburne and Alexander Stewart earned ungrudging respect. This book details the careers, personalities and appearance of 24 generals of the Army of Tennessee and the other Confederate commands in the West. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 95 - 1st printing. "World War II Medal of Honor Recipients Part 2!" Written by Robert Hargis Starr Sinton. Art by Ramiro Bujeiro. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force that can be awarded to personnel in the United States' Armed Forces. From the early fighting in the Philippines through the D-Day landings in Northwest Europe to the final assaults in the Pacific, this book looks at the brave US soldiers and airmen who were awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions in the face of danger. It tells the exciting combat stories of such famous figures as the film star Audie Murphy, one of the most decorated US soldier of WWII, alongside less well-known awardees. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 97 - 1st printing. "The Kaiser's Warlords!" Written by Ronald Pawly. Art by Patrice Courcelle. The turn of the 20th century saw Imperial Germany as essentially a militarist state, whose growing industrial resources and wealth were harnessed to the task of increasing German military power, at a time of aggressive expansionist diplomacy in competition with Britain and France. After her victories over Austria in the 1860s and France in 1870, Germany's General Staff enjoyed tremendous professional prestige throughout Europe, and was the model for all aspects of command and control. The German army was essentially that of Prussia, Bavaria and Saxony with smaller contingents from the lesser states. Its generals were the men who planned, initiated, and to a large extent controlled the course of World War I. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 98 - 1st printing. "British Commanders of World War II!" Written by Ian Sumner. Art by Malcolm McGregor. This book examines the key British commanders of World War II across the three branches of service. As well being provided with biographical details for each of the 24 commanders selected, we are given fascinating insights into their personalities and their style of command. Assessments of their combat records and performances under pressure are also supplied. Contemporary images and magnificent colour artworks provide details of their uniforms, dress and appearance during wartime service. The commanders brought to life by this book include Auchinleck, Alan Brooke, Cunnigham, Freyberg, Harris, Montgomery, Ramsay, Slessor, Slim, Tedder and Urquhart. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Volume 101 - 1st printing. "Austrian Commanders of the Napoleonic Wars 1792-1815!" Written by David Hollins. Art by Christopher Rothero. Throughout the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars, France's most consistent enemy on land was the Austrian Empire. Austria's huge armies played a central part in the several coalitions against France, from the 1790s, to the Austerlitz campaign of 1805, the closely-balanced battles of 1809, and the final upsurge of 1813-14. Contrary to the myth of rigid aristocratic conformity, the generals who led those armies were as diverse in origin and character as their regiments - some were princes of the blood, and some ex-rankers promoted for talent and courage. This text gives concise but fact-packed accounts of the careers of more than 30 of these men, illustrated with portraits and meticulous colour plates. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 103 - 1st printing. "Vietnam ANZACs!"By Kevin Lyles. The part played by Australian and New Zealand troops in the Vietnam War is sometimes overlooked; but it is generally accepted that the 'Diggers' and 'Kiwis' were among the most effective and professional troops involved. Drawing upon the ANZACs' long experience in the jungles of South East Asia, the men of the Task Force used their expertise in patrol tactics to great effect to frustrate Viet Cong operations. Meanwhile the ANZACs' small and isolated adviser teams spent ten years passing on their skills all over South Vietnam, and in the process four were awarded the supreme decoration for valour - the Victoria Cross. This book pays tribute to their military prowess, and describes and illustrates their uniforms and equipment in unprecedented detail. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 104 - 1st printing. "Britain's Air Defences 1939-45!" Written by Alfred Price. Art by Darko Pavlovic. German daylight raids on Britain began in the summer of 1940. They were expected and the country had been preparing for quite some time. Searchlights were in place, Fighter Command had been expanded, and anti-aircraft guns were being manufactured. It was from these first preparations that Britain developed tactics to counter the many air raids over the following years. This book shows how Britain prepared for air raids in the run up to the war and details all the tactics that were developed during the war to counter the many aerial attacks. Among the defence systems covered are anti-aircraft guns, barrage balloons and the RADAR system. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 106 - 1st printing. "Wehrmacht Combat Helmets 1933-45!" Written by Brian C Bell . Art by Kevin Lyles. The German Stahlhelm is perhaps the most recognizable image of World War II. Manufactured in its millions, it was used or copied by many countries. It is still one of the most collected relics of the war; but despite its relative availability, prices have reached levels that challenge collectors to protect themselves by acquiring in-depth knowledge. This book, by a collector of 30 years' standing, offers a detailed masterclass in the patterns, component parts and finishes of the combat helmets used by the German Army, Navy and Air Force. It is illustrated with a superb selection of rare period photos, colour photos of collected examples, and striking colour paintings Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 107 - 1st printing. "Buffalo Soldiers 1866-91!" Written by Ron Field. Art by Richard Hook. African-American soldiers played a decisive role in the US Army on the western frontier during the Plains Wars. First authorised by Congress in July 1866, they were organised into two cavalry and four infantry regiments, which were commanded by white officers. All were quickly nicknamed the 'Buffalo Soldiers' by their Cheyenne and Comanche enemies. These brave soldiers fought many native tribes over the years, including the warriors of Sitting Bull and Geronimo. This book tells the story of these buffalo soldiers who, until the early 1890s, constituted 20 per cent of all active forces on duty in the American West. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 108 - 1st printing. "Spanish Guerrillas in the Peninsular War 1808-14!" Written by René Chartrand. Art by Richard Hook. Constant Spanish guerrilla activity so drained the resources and diverted the attention of the French military that Wellington was able to advance against and overcome a numerically superior enemy. So many French soldiers were being used to counter the guerrillas and the threat that they posed that less than a third of the French army could be tasked with confronting Wellington. This book brings to life, for the first time, the formation, tactics and experiences of the Spanish guerrilla forces that fought Napoleon's army. Using much previously unpublished material, it offers a vivid description of the guerrilla and his lifestyle. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

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Volume 109 - 1st printing. "The British Home Front 1939-45!" Written by Martin Brayley. Art by Malcolm McGregor. The population of Britain was mobilized to support the war effort on a scale unseen in any other Western democracy - or in Nazi Germany. They endured long working shifts, shortages of food and all other goods, and complete government control of their daily lives. Most men and women were conscripted or volunteered for additional tasks outside their formal working hours. Under the air raids that destroyed the centres of many towns and made about 2 million homeless, more than 60,000 civilians were killed and 86,000 seriously injured. This fascinating illustrated summary of wartime life, and the organizations that served on the Home front, is a striking record of endurance and sacrifice. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Add to cart Near Mint $4.00

Add to cart Near Mint $4.00

Volume 111 - 1st printing. "Heroes of the Soviet Union 1941-45!" Written by Henry Sakaida. Art by Christa Hook. The Great Patriotic War began on 22 June 1941, when the Germans invaded the Soviet Union. Over 10 million Soviet soldiers took part in the war and of those about 12,600 earned the Soviet Union's highest military award - the Hero of the Soviet Union - for deeds of great daring and self sacrifice. This book covers the male recipients of the Hero of the Soviet Union award during the Great Patriotic War. Snipers, fighter pilots, partisans and spies are all included, together with the famous aces Pokryshkin and Kozhedub, who both gained the award an amazing three times. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 112 - 1st printing. "American Civil War Marines 1861-65!" Written by Ron Field. Art by Richard Hook. The part played in the Civil War by the small Marine Corps of the United and Confederate States is overshadowed by the confrontations of the great armies. Nevertheless, the coastal and riverine campaigns were of real importance, given the strategic significance of the Federal blockade of southern ports, and of the struggle for the Mississippi River. Marines wearing blue and grey fought in many dramatic actions afloat and ashore - ship-to-ship engagements, cutting-out expeditions, and coastal landings. This book offers a comprehensive summary of all such battles, illustrated with rare early photographs, and meticulously researched color plates detailing the often obscure minutiae of Marine uniforms and equipment. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 114 - 1st printing. "Knight's Cross and Oak-Leaves Recipients 1939-40!" Written by Gordon Williamson. Art by Ramiro Bujeiro. In 1939 a new grade in the Iron Cross series was introduced, the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes). It was awarded for a variety of reasons, from skilled leadership to a single act of extreme gallantry, and was bestowed across all ranks, grades, and branches of service. As the war progresed, further distinctions were created for bestowal on existing winners, namely Oak-Leaves (Eichenlaub); Oak-Leaves with Swords (Eichenlaub und Schwertern); and Oak-Leaves with Swords and Diamonds (Eichenlaub, Schwerter und Brillanten). This book, the first in a sequence of four, covers winners of the Knights Cross and the Oak-Leaves distinction in the period 1939-40. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Add to cart Near Mint $3.00

Add to cart Near Mint $3.00

Volume 115 - 1st printing. "Napoleon's Imperial Headquarters Part 1!" Written by Ronald Pawly. Art by Patrice Courcelle. The 'military machine' by which Napoleon and his indispensable chief of staff Marshal Berthier commanded and controlled his huge armies on campaign numbered some 1,500 officers and men, organized in the different bureaux of his military and civilian 'households' and the army general headquarters. This essential tool of the Emperor's power was designed to provide him, even in a front-line camp, with all the information, technical support and comfort that he enjoyed in his palaces. This fascinating study details the entourage which enabled Napoleon to move hundreds of thousands of troops right across Europe. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $17.95.

Add to cart Near Mint $4.00

Volume 116 - 1st printing. "Napoleon's Imperial Headquarters Part 2!" Written by Ronald Pawly. Art by Patrice Courcelle. Following Elite 115 - which described the composition of Napoleon's military and civil 'households', and Marshal Berthier's army general headquarters - this title offers an intimate glimpse of the Emperor's entourage in the field. Centred on the Waterloo campaign in 1815, it draws comparisons with his earlier triumphs. From the testimony of his trusted servants, the text draws a vivid picture of his daily routines on the march. Of particular interest are new details of Napoleon's tented camp HQ from 1812; and a further selection of the striking uniforms worn by his closest attendants. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 117 - 1st printing. "US World War II Amphibious Tactics!" Written by Gordon L Rottman. Art by Peter Dennis. The US armed forces were responsible for many tactical innovations during the years 1941-45, but in no field was US mastery more complete than amphibious warfare. In the vast, almost empty battlefield of the Pacific the US Navy and Marine Corps were obliged to develop every aspect of the amphibious assault landing in painstaking detail, from the design of many new types of vessel, down to the tactics of the rifle platoon hitting the beach, and the logistic system without which they could not have fought their way inland. This fascinating study offers a clear, succinct explanation of every phase of these operations as they evolved during the war years, illustrated with detailed color plates and photographs. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.

Volume 118 - 1st printing. "German Commanders of World War II Part 1!" Written by Gordon Williamson. Art by Malcolm McGregor. This first of two studies examines the careers and illustrates the appearance and uniforms of 19 of the German Army's leading field commanders in World War II. Their service covers the whole arc of that army's wartime experience, from stunning success in 1939-41, through the hugely costly middle years on the Russian Front to the stubborn defensive fighting in both East and West in 1943-45. Also included are five more junior unit commanders chosen because their service typifies the achievements of combat leaders in regimental and battalion commands. The colour portraits are in the uniquely meticulous style of the respected World War II illustrator Malcolm McGregor. Softcover, 64 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $18.95.