Although special operations forces did not become a permanent part of the U.S. armed forces until the 20th century, units such as the Ethan Allen's Green Mountain Boys, Whitcomb's Rangers, and the Continental Marines have played an integral part in military operations since the American Revolution. Retired U.S. Army Colonel Tonsetic (PhD) traces their origins and fighting principles in the context of warfare on the North American continent prior to the war for independence. The work includes case studies of their roles in particular battles, maps and photographs. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)