Books by War Department

Created during WWII by the War Department, the Handbook on Japanese Military Forces was intended to familiarize command staff with nearly every aspect of Tojo's war machine. Originally classified "restricted", the Handbook was created from the best intelligence that the OSS and other military information sources could offer. It contains comprehensive information and analysis of the Japanese military system, and includes chapters on recruitment and training, field organization, tactics and fortifications. It also contains a description of Japanese insignia, uniforms and equipment. This includes discussions of mechanized forces and weapons from small arms to mortars, artillery, vehicles and tanks, as well as naval and land-based aircraft. Additional chapters describe the Special Forces and Military Police. While some of the details within this book may bear review in light of history, it remains one of the most comprehensive compendiums of information about the Japanese forces ever assembled. Although it was declassified after WWII, it's never been easy to obtain a copy of this book. This high quality reprint includes all the original text, diagrams and photographs from the final October, 1944 edition.

Designed by Allis Chalmers on the chassis and drive train of the M2 Light Tank, the 18-ton M4 High Speed Tractor was a prime mover for the U.S. Army duringWorld War II. It was tasked with moving artillery, in particular 3-inch and90mm anti-aircraft guns, 155mm guns, and 8-inch and 240mm howitzers. Builtas a "crawler" and equipped with a 6-cylinder, water-cooled engine, the M4could travel cross-country through swamps and sand, or on the highway at speeds up to 33 mph. Over 5,500 M4s were built between 1942 and 1945, with many remaining in service into the 1960s.Created in 1943, this official TM 9-785 Technical Manual reveals a great deal about the M4's design and capabilities. Intended as a manual for those charged with operation and maintenance, this manual shows many aspects of its engine, cooling, power, drive train and other systems. Originally labeled restricted, this manual was declassified long ago and is here reprinted in book form. Care has been taken to preserve the integrity of the text.

This 1941 War Department Technical Manual has six main sections:GeneralResistancePower RequirementsStabilityControlAerodynamic Stress It was designed as a text for the instruction of airship student pilots and as a reference text for the rated pilot in lighter-than-air aircraft operation.