The 23rd Headquarters Special Troops were a secret American Army unit deployed in World War II with the express mission of simulating large groups of military forces in an effort to confuse the German foe after the Normandy invasion. Journalist Kneece recounts the activities of the unit, in its efforts to fool the Germans that the 1000 man force was, at various times, different well-equipped American battalions of many thousands. Kneece personalizes the account with a large focus on the recollections of the actors, fashion designers, artists, and others who regularly deceived the German army in various campaigns. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)