A Civilian's Guide to the U.S. Military By Barbara Shading

Schading covers the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and special forces
in great detail. Information for each branch includes its mission, background, ranks, uniforms, joining and training information, weapons, and more explained in terms that are easy to understand and make for fascinating reading. For example, did you know Marine recruits are always brought into Boot Camp in the middle of the night to add to their nervousness, fear, and intimidation? Or that upon graduation, every Special Forces soldier is issued a 'Yarborough' knife, named in honor of General William Yarborough, the 'father of the Green Berets.' Only current and former Special Forces are allowed to purchase the knife whose blade is engraved with the name 'Yarborough' and its serial number.
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