When conscription was eliminated in the early 1970s, the US Army found itself with a very different kind of soldier.

While the personality of the Army remained the same, the organization of its higher levels of command and combat formations, and the internal structure of its units underwent major changes under the ''Army of Excellence'' program of the 1980s.

This book explores the US Army of the late 80s, including the training methods, weapon systems, Reserve Components, organization and uniforms of one of the world''s most potent fighting forces. The text is illustrated with numerous photographs and eight colour plates.