Formed in July 1940 for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering behind enemy lines, the Long Range Desert Group was the first British special force unit. In no time the LRDG earned itself an enviable reputation for deep penetration patrols into German and Italian held territory. Its successes on prolonged missions into harsh terrain and under extreme climatic conditions were out of all proportion to its size. Wide-ranging military skills, including exceptional navigation techniques, and the highest standards of discipline and leadership were required from all ranks. Many of the previously unpublished and well captioned images in this comprehensive and well researched book come from the collections of LRDG veterans. They show the weapons, equipment, uniforms and insignia used and, together with personal accounts and operational reports, bring to life the extraordinary achievements of this legendary unit. The result is a fascinating record of the LRDG's contribution to the Allied victory in North Africa. AUTHOR: Brendan O'Carroll lives in Auckland, New Zealand and recently retired from the New Zealand Customs Service. With a long time interest in military history, his speciality is the Long Range Desert Group. He interviewed over 30 veterans while writing The Kiwi Scorpions: The Story of the New Zealanders in the LRDG (2000), Bearded Brigands (2002) and Barce Raid: The LRDG's Most Daring Exploit in World War Two. His Pen and Sword titles include The LRDG in the Aegean (2020), The Long Range Desert Group in Action 1940 -1943 and Fighting with the Long Range Desert Group, Merlyn Craw MM's War 1940-1945. He has written numerous other published works and articles. In 2006 his work was recognised by awards from the New Zealand Military Historical Society. 300 b/w illustrations
