A Perfect Hell: The True Story of the Black Devils, the Forefathers of the Special Forces

The central role played by special forces in the global war on terror has generated renewed interest in the WWII-era predecessors of today's elite special warriors, from the ski troops of the Tenth Mountain Division to the legendary Jedburghs. Writer and war correspondent Nadler (Searching for Sofia ) resurrects the "largely forgotten" First Special Service Force (FSSF) in this superb popular history. Made up of volunteers from the U.S. and Canadian armies, the FSSF was considered a "suicide outfit." Following months of arduous training at Ft. Harrison near Helena, Mont., that included parachute training, alpine skiing and demolition training—"a range of specialized skills that was virtually unprecedented"—the unit participated in the deadly assault against the German winter line in southern Italy, the defense of the Anzio beachhead, the liberation of Rome and the invasion of southern France. Their fierce resistance against a much larger enemy force at Anzio won them their nickname, the Black Devils, from their German foes. Nadler flavors his narrative with accounts of individual Black Devils like FSSF commander Robert Frederick, the "war's premier fighting general" with eight Purple Hearts, two Silver Stars and two Distinguished Service Crosses. This solidly researched and smartly written volume is a fitting tribute to a unique group of warriors. (Mar. 28)