The real nature of the term light infantry has been subject to much debate. Is it mainly a function of its organization, operating without organic, heavy equipment and, except for its resultant mobility, equivalent to conventional infantry Or is light infantry a matter of attitude and style, viewing itself as uniquely fleet, nimble, and resourceful and using tactics based on this perception A Historical Perspective on Light Infantry views light infantry as unique and distinct, with its own ethic and tactical style. Yet because no standard light infantry force exists, the book takes a case study approach, with the examples chosen to reflect diversity of size, organization, and purpose. The case studies include The Chindits of World War II and their exploits behind Japanese lines in Burma Chinese Communist Forces in the Korean war, using the philosophy of man over weapons British operations in Malaya and Borneo from 1948 to 1966 The First Special Service Force FSSF, an elite force traine