"THE GREEN BERET . . . A SYMBOL OF EXCELLENCE, A MARK OF DISTINCTION, AND A BADGE OF COURAGE." Though engaged in the United States' longest and most controversial military action, the Green Berets rose above the fray to establish an awesome reputation based on their extraordinary skill, discipline, bravery, and sacrifice. Now, with access to information declassified for the very first time, Shelby Stanton--author, military historian, Green Beret, and Vietnam vet--presents the first and most authoritative, comprehensive, and detailed battlefield history of Special Forces in the Vietnam War. Making use of firsthand combat interviews, original records, and his own Special Forces experience, Stanton presents a vivid, unvarnished, and thoroughly researched account of one of the best and most highly decorated special-operations units ever. Here are the real stories behind the legends of combat valor and battlefield success forged by U.S. Army Special Forces during more than a decade of fighting in the tropical swamps and deep jungles of Southeast Asia. With photos, maps, charts, and special sections on Congressional Medal of Honor winners and MIAs