This annotated bibliography was initially developed in conjunction with the initiative of the Department of the Army in 1983 to develop the force structure for 10,000-man light infantry divisions. Its goals were to provide annotated historical references for the combat experiences of previous light divisions and to list historical sources on the force design process, especially in regard to attempts to lighten the force or to respond to improvements in technology on the battlefield. The first draft of this bibliography was distributed in September and October 1983 as a quick reference to force planners across the Army. Since that time, the bibliography has been expanded, but the general focus remains the same, historical light divisions and the force design process. It addresses light infantry forces of the twentieth century with primary emphasis on World War II and later. This document can serve as a starting point for force designers' research into the origins, organizations, capabilities, and combat experiences of light infantry forces. In order to permit widespread distribution of this bibliography, only unclassified sources have been cited. However, additional classified documents on the subject exist, particularly in regard to technical analyses of force capabilities. A number of these are available in the Combined Arms Research Library (CARL) at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. The enclosed charts describe light infantry and close combat forces of World War II as well as some of those in being today.

The real nature of the term "light infantry" has been subject to much debate. Is it mainly a function of its organization, operating without organic, heavy equipment and, except for its resultant mobility, equivalent to conventional infantry? Or is light infantry a matter of attitude and style, viewing itself as uniquely fleet, nimble, and resourceful and using tactics based on this perception? "A Historical Perspective on Light Infantry" views light infantry as unique and distinct, with its own ethic and tactical style. Yet because no standard light infantry force exists, the book takes a case study approach, with the examples chosen to reflect diversity of size, organization, and purpose. The case studies include: The Chindits of World War II and their exploits behind Japanese lines in Burma; Chinese Communist Forces in the Korean war, using the philosophy of "man over weapons"; British operations in Malaya and Borneo from 1948 to 1966; The First Special Service Force (FSSF), an elite force trained in amphibious and mounted warfare and used in Italy during World War II. This study brings into greater focus the ethic of light infantry forces; the principles that govern its organization, training, deployment, tactics, support, logistics, and leadership; and the role of technology. It also highlights the problems and vulnerabilities of such troops. Strategists, historians, and military history buffs alike can benefit from the examples and analyses in "A Historical Perspective on Light Infantry." Originally published in 1987. 258 pages. ill.

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.