Encyclopedia of the Navy SEALs

From the jungles of Vietnam to the sands of Iraq, the United States Navy SEALs are an effective special operations force. Organized into unconventional forces that range from as few as six men to as many as a platoon of 100, the SEALs draw their name from SeaAirLand, the three elements in which they work with deadly efficiency. This volume offers a look at this unique organization. The introduction traces the history of the SEALs, from the World War II demolition teams to the actual formation of the force in 1962 under President John F. Kennedy, as well as their evolution into the counter-terrorists and guerilla fighters of the 21st century. More than A-Z entries offer comprehensive coverage of different aspects of the force including its organization, history, personnel, equipment, weaponry, and relevant terms.