The U.S. Army's commitment to light divisions is testimony to the
importance of light infantry in modern war. The continuing
usefulness of light forces goes beyond their ease of deployment.
Light infantry exemplifies a state of mind that reveals itself in a
unique tactical style, versatility, and elan that are so vital in
battle.
While the structure of light infantry makes it admirably
equipped to fight in restricted terrain, it operates at
considerable disadvantage in areas more suited to heavy forces. As
with any military organization, commanders must consider both the
capabilities and limitations of light infantry before committing it
to battle. Major Scott R, McMichael provides a valuable historical
perspective for understanding the characteristics, organization,
and operations of light infantry forces.
Major McMichael's Research Survey examines four light infantry
forces operating in varying settings: the Chindits in the 1944
Burma campaign against the Japanese: the Chinese Communist Forces
during the Korean War; British operations in Malaya and Borneo from
1948 to 1966: and the First Special Service Force in its battles in
the mountains of Itali during World War II. These examples are
diverse in terms of time, areas of operations, and opposing forces,
yet they reveal common characteristics of light forces and their
operations.
A Historical Perspective on Light Infantry is based on extensive
research in primary and secondary historical sources. The author
has uncovered numerous doctrinal and operational manuals and
reports and has gone beyond them to explore the more personal side
of light infantry operations. This study is both fascinating
reading and a valuable historica, analysis of the capabilities and
limitations of light infantry when faced with the test of
battle.
General
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