This highly controversial book is the authoritative story of the most bizarre naval operation in World War II – that of the United States Naval Group, China, commonly known as the ‘Rice Paddy Navy.” It is unique in its revelation of this hitherto undocumented aspect of the war, and is scathing in its indictment of United States postwar policies in China. -- From the book jacket.

Secret orders -- General Tai Li and Commander Winter Plum Blossom, USN -- Through Japanese-held territory to the coast of China -- I meet an assassin in India -- Our "What-the Hell?" pennant -- SACO, O.S.S., and Rear Duke Miles -- "Every Man a Tiger!" -- The SACO agreement and O.S.S. disagreement -- SACO gains and loses a princess -- Naval Group China -- Chinese pirates and the SACO dragon -- Preparations, supplies and handicaps -- SACO's Sino-American headquarters -- The flying tigers and the Army Air Force -- General Stilwell leaves--General Wedemeyer arrives -- SACO guerrillas in action -- General Tai's loyal patriotic army -- Watchers on the coast and our horseback navy -- Wedemeyer takes over -- Suspicion and red tape -- What the United States didn't know -- SACO's "Dead End Kids" take the coast -- War's end and the fleet in Shanghai -- The medal for Tai Li.