The commando idea, 1940 -- General reconnaissance and sabotage -- Assault pilotage -- Guerrilla warfare: Australian independent companies -- A perfect flank guard -- Raiders in the Pacific -- Rangers in Africa -- Mediterranean shock troops -- Through Italy to the Balkans -- Reorganisation and strategy -- D-day in Normandy and North-West Europe -- Burma and the small operations group -- Philippine adventure -- Achievements and limitations -- Appendices. Abbreviations -- Organisation -- Weapons -- Landing ships, craft, amphibians and other vehicles -- Communications -- Training programme of commando depot -- Unit histories summarised.