The first 50 years of the US Army airborne arm is a story of continuing battles with the nation's enemies, of battles within the Army's hierarchy, of change, and of adaptation.

This comprehensive, illustrated volume tracks this history, highlighting the airborne soldier's uncanny ability to adapt and be flexible over the years. Focusing on the motivation and ésprit de corps this attitude fostered within these units, this is an engaging survey of how the airborne army changed in the years between 1940 and 1990.

The first class pairing of Gordon L. Rottman and Ron Volstad bring to life the history of these remarkable troops.