This book captures the "schizophrenic" attitude of the Canadian governments, the military and the public towards the Airborne. From the creation of the postwar Mobile Striking Force and Defence of Canada Force to the disbandment of the Airborne Regiment, the Army's key problem remained its inability to find a viable, long-term role that made airborne forces indispensable.

Horn does more than just analyze the politics behind the birth, development and demise of the airborne forces. He pays tribute to those who either served in or supported the Regiment and/or its predecessors during the 53 years of the "Canadian airborne experience." A rare look into the decision making process in Ottawa, with its personalities and motives, heroes and villains, and causes and betrayals. The author carefully examines the Somalia Incident and other scandals which provided the political death knell for the Airborne Regiment in light of the systemic problems of leadership, and the lack of government support.