The Paras 1940-84 (Elite) [Paperback]

Greg Ferguson (Author), Kevin Lyles (Illustrator)

Book Description

Series: Elite | Publication Date: September 27, 1984

Osprey's examination of the British Airborne Forces, from World War II (1939-1945) to the Falklands War (1982). On the night of 7 February 1941 the first British parachute unit was sent into action. Their target was the Tragino Aqueduct in Italy, and although the mission itself did not go to plan, the effect on Italian morale of this landing in the heart of their country was considerable. It was also a valuable achievement for the parachutists to have proved themselves in action, even on so small a scale, at a time when Britain was reeling from defeat to defeat. Since then, British Airborne Forces have proved themselves in action time and time again, in a variety of different theatres from Europe to the Falklands.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

An unrivalled illustrated reference source on fighting men and commanders, past and present. Each volume is packed with full colour artwork, making military history uniquely accessible to enthusiasts of all ages.

About the Author

Gregor Ferguson was born in 1956 in Lanarkshire, the son of a former paratrooper, and himself served for three years in the 10th (Volunteer) Bn. The Parachute Regiment. He served in a rifle company and in the battalion Intelligence Cell, before leaving the Territorial Army due to an ankle injury. A professional journalist, he has contributed many articles to military publications, and is currently the editor of two international defence magazines specialising in Third World military matters. He has a long-standing interest in special forces and irregular organisations. Gregor Ferguson is married, and lives in south London.

Product Details

• Paperback: 52 pages
• Publisher: Osprey Publishing (September 27, 1984)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0850455731
• ISBN-13: 978-0850455731
• Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 0.2 x 9.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,102,290 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3.0 out of 5 stars A Good First Effort., January 29, 2007

By 

Pardus Amicus "Alexander" (Lake Superior, USA) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: The Paras 1940-84 (Elite) (Paperback)

While a mostly useful Osprey reference book, this volume shows its age in the fact that it covers too great a time period - over 40 years in the standard 64 page Elite format. Newer Osprey volumes tend to cover less than 10 years and have far greater detail packed into such slim books.

This book is OK for now but hopefully Osprey will redo this subject in their newer, tighter focus format.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great reference - The Paras 1940-1984, April 30, 2005

By 

Romeo Esparrago "RomeDome.Com" (North America) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: The Paras 1940-84 (Elite) (Paperback)

If you're a military historical enthusiast or a hobbyist (fine scale modeling, militaria, etc), this is a faburrific reference book whose illustrations highlight the early development period as well as the more commonly known/shown uniforms, equipment, etc. as well as showcasing lesser known para info such as the Gurkhas and post-WWII missions.

4.0 out of 5 stars British Paratroopers, May 11, 2000

By 

Maikel Weyers - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Paras 1940-84 (Elite) (Paperback)

It hard to find detailed information on the subject of the British paratroopers. This book gives you an introduction on the subject. It explaines how the units were raised. which operation they were involved in and what they are doing now. The absolute best thing about the book are the drawings from the author. In high detail they show the uniforms, the badges and weapons used by the British Paratroopers. All together the book gives you a nice prespective of the history of the British Airborne forces from the date of raising until now.