Ghost Troop of the Ryukyus: The Story of the 96th Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized) of the 96th Infantry Division — Signed and Inscribed

Privately published and notably scarce unit history of the 96th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized) of the 96th Infantry Division, documenting the troop’s formation, personnel, wartime operations, and service in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The title page describes the work as the unit’s history and story from 1918 to 1946, with particular coverage of its combat service during the battles of Leyte and Okinawa. Compiled by Clifford E. Warrick from unit operational records held by the National Archives, military morning reports preserved at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, veterans’ recollections, personal photographs, and related documentary material. Extensively illustrated throughout with historical photographs, military records, captions identifying troop members, campaign information, and large folding maps, including detailed operational mapping of Okinawa. This copy is signed and personally inscribed by Clifford E. Warrick on the front free endpaper: “To Randy, A great friend and buddy. Thanks for your dedication and service. Sincerely, Clifford E. Warrick” The identity of the recipient has not been conclusively established; accordingly, this copy is offered as a signed and inscribed presentation copy, without making an unsupported association-copy claim. A substantial and unusually detailed primary-source unit history with strong appeal for collectors and researchers of the 96th Infantry Division, mechanized cavalry and reconnaissance units, the Philippines campaign, Leyte, Okinawa, Pacific Theater operations, and privately published American military histories. Condition Description Near Fine hardcover in a Near Fine dust jacket. Large golden-yellow hardcover binding remains clean, tight, square, and structurally sound, with firm hinges and a well-preserved text block. Interior pages are clean and well maintained, with no writing or markings noted apart from the author’s presentation inscription. Photographs, illustrations, and folding maps appear clean and properly preserved. The pictorial dust jacket remains bright, complete, and highly presentable, showing only minimal surface rubbing and light handling or edge wear consistent with careful storage. No significant tears, chips, or losses observed. Please review all listing photographs, which form an important part of the condition description.…