This book provides a definitive history of the U.S. Army Rangers that details the origins and development, combat philosophy, and key engagements of America's elite fighting force. The U.S. Army Rangers: Forging a Special Operations Force details the origins and development, combat philosophy, and key engagements of America's elite fighting force. Structured topically, the book allows for a chronological review of the history of the Ranger from the 17th century to the present day, with special attention paid to the establishment of the 1st Ranger Battalion in the post-Vietnam era--the origins of the elite fighting force that exists today. This book is replete with information garnered from dozens of interviews with the individuals who created the initial Ranger Force.

By integrating the words and first-hand accounts of these founding fathers, the work offers insights unavailable elsewhere. Additionally, the author delves into the unique psyche of the soldiers who volunteer for--and are accepted into the ranks of--the "Rangers." * Explores the mindsets and the challenges facing the individuals who were involved in developing America's premier fighting force * Provides an unprecedented firsthand account of the formation of the Ranger Regiment that exists today * Describes the soldier's experience--and the Army itself--at the end of the conscript Vietnam-era Army, a pivotal time in the development of American military forces * Presents colorful vignettes taken from current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan * Provides real-world examples of what it is like to be a modern day Ranger that allow readers to understand the Ranger psyche.