United States Marine Reconnaissance in the Vietnam War: Ghost Soldiers and Sea Commandos, 1963-1971

Tracing the history of U.S. Marine Force and Battalion Reconnaissance from its formation in 1898 through its operations during the Vietnam War (1963-1971), this book provides insight into Force Recon’s selection, training and deployment. Emphasis on actions with the South Vietnamese ARVN highlights important lessons for today’s Special Forces community, illustrating the inter-service cooperation of Recon operations. Firsthand accounts of Marines who served are included, along with photographs, maps and appendices.

Leo J. Daugherty III is the Senior Command Historian for the United States Army Cadet Command in Fort Knox, Kentucky.