U.S. Special Ops Forces

No matter how advanced a military is or how intelligent its members are, the reality is that missions will sometimes fail. The Pararescue units of the U.S. Air Force are responsible for extracting soldiers who are gravely injured or trapped behind enemy lines. Pulled from the Air Force's Special Warfare division, these elite soldiers are not only skilled medics, they're also accomplished survivalists. In this title, readers get a glimpse of what it takes to become a member of a Pararescue squad.

To whom does the U.S. military go when it needs a specially trained force to lead the way? The U.S. Army Rangers, of course! This elite, special ops force has been leading the way for other military units for hundreds of years. From the French and Indian War to the modern war on terrorism, Army Rangers have been called upon to enter dangerous territory to find essential information about the enemy. Rangers are trained for covert operations. They're adept at getting to hard-to-reach areas while carrying heavy packs, whether it's by boat, helicopter, or on foot. The text discusses the colorful history of the U.S. Army Rangers, famous Rangers, and what it's like training for the 75th Ranger Regiment. Amazing photographs of Rangers in action are sure to draw in readers.

The Navy's Sea, Air, and Land Forces (SEALs) became even more well-known in 2011, after SEAL Team Six assassinated Osama bin Laden. However, this group of elite soldiers has been active since the 1960s. SEALs have been involved in special operations, reconnaissance, counterterrorism, and support all across the globe. This title gives readers a closer look at one of the U.S. military's most famous units, discussing its history, its missions, and what it takes to become a SEAL. Sidebars and full-color photographs give readers a look at this unit beyond the headlines.

Even among America's top military units, the First Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta-better known as Delta Force-is considered elite. Its ranks are populated by the best soldiers the United States can offer, and the unit is tasked with sensitive and dangerous work. This title takes readers inside the shadowy Delta Force, discussing its history and some of its declassified operations. The text is supplemented with full-color photographs and engaging sidebars, giving readers a chance to see what it's like to be a Delta Force operator.

In the digital age, information is a valuable commodity-especially in the middle of a battlefield. That's where Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance (Recon) units come in. Specially trained for covert operations, these elite soldiers put themselves on the front lines to infiltrate enemy strongholds and gather intelligence. This title explores the history of Marine Force Recon units, describes how they fit into the branch's military structure, and explains what it means to work in reconnaissance. Exciting fact boxes give readers more insight into the unit's responsibilities and equipment.

The iconic green beret worn by Army Special Forces units dates back to the 1950s in the United States, and the Green Berets are today recognized as one of the strongest arms of the U.S. military. Their missions are uniquely designed for small squads to quickly and quietly take efficient action against enemies abroad. This title takes readers among the ranks of the Green Berets, explaining the units' work in counterterrorism, covert reconnaissance, and more. Colorful photographs complement the text to transport readers behind the scenes of this celebrated unit.