1. I found this a rather interesting account of the birth of the Jordanian army. It was interesting to read his comments on the difficult that were faced in creating and fielding such a force which unlike other armies in the region was created on the cheap. I found many little details astonishing eg morse was not available in Arabic so the Arab signal officers could not understand the messages that they were sending but were able to receive and send it extremely well. This may have in reality have had an advantage to some extent.

   What I did find strange was that it appears so little was done to create Jordanian officers, to slowly take over the force. Surely something could have been done earlier.

   I also found that the pictures displayed the text well.
   Rating: 3 / 5

2. This is a wonderful book made all the better by Brigadier Young’s authorship. Since Young was a British officer who served with the Legion he had great insight into its organization, its weaknesses and its strengths. As usual with Osprey books it is wonderfully illustrated. Although interest might be limited to those studying Middle Eastern or military history, this slim volume is a must-have for anyone who wants to get a “feel” for a unique and colorful Arab unit.
   Rating: 5 / 5

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