In the English-speaking world, it is generally unknown that a volunteer Brazilian Expeditionary Force (FEB) fought alongside the US Army in Italy from mid-1944 until the end of World War II (1939-1945). This was in effect a light infantry division, consisting of three infantry regiments augmented with artillery and light armour. It was supported by a Brazilian Air Force contingent of a light reconnaissance squadron as well as a P-47 Thunderbolt-equipped fighter squadron. Although all weapons, uniform, kit and equipment were either American-supplied or American models, there were distinctive Brazilian adaptations to uniforms and other key pieces of kit. This is a seriously researched volume on a little-studied subject matter complete with a range of previously unpublished photographs and specially commissioned artwork plates.

Introduction - historical and political background /The pre-war Brazilian Army /Creation and organization of the FEB /Uniforms and equipment of the FEB - Army and Air Force /Combat record of the FEB in Italy /Conclusion - post-war consequences for US relations with Latin America

Cesar Campiani Maximiano, Ricardo Bonalume Neto