Eyes on the Enemy: U.S. Military Intelligence-Gathering Tactics, Techniques and Equipment, 1939–45

On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Carrier Strike Force attacked Pearl Harbor, resulting in one of the most significant intelligence failures in US history. The US military developed an intelligence-gathering and analysis network to understand their enemies' intentions, divided between signal intelligence, human intelligence, combat intelligence, and War Department intelligence. This book explores the theoretical and practical principles of wartime intelligence gathering and analysis, highlighting the importance of observation, recording, intercepting radio traffic, cryptanalysis, photo-reconnaissance, prisoner interrogation, and undercover agent operations. The work of intelligence operators was crucial in determining victory or defeat in battle.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2023
Publisher: Casemate Publishers

On the fateful day of December 7, 1941, an imperial Japanese carrier strike force launched a devastating attack on the US Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor, capitalizing on one of the most significant intelligence failures in American history. In response, the U.S. military swiftly mobilized its various branches, creating one of the most formidable and intricate intelligence-gathering and analysis networks among the combatant nations. This remarkable network provided a invaluable window into the intentions of their adversaries, enabling the military to make informed decisions and ultimately pave the way for victory in World War II.

The U.S. military intelligence landscape during World War II was a complex tapestry, encompassing a wide range of fields and organizations. Signal intelligence (SIGINT) and human intelligence (HUMINT) were the two primary branches, with combat intelligence and War Department intelligence also playing significant roles. Within these branches, there were numerous entities, including the Military Intelligence Division (MID), Military Intelligence Service (MIS), the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI), the Counter Intelligence Corps (CIC), the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), and numerous intelligence units organic to the Army, Navy, Army Air Forces, and Marine Corps.

The documents collected in this book offer a comprehensive exploration of the theoretical and practical principles behind wartime intelligence gathering and analysis. They provide a deep insight into the methods employed by frontline intelligence officers and Washington-based code-breakers, covering a diverse range of activities such as observation, recording, intercepting enemy radio traffic, cryptanalysis, photo-reconnaissance, prisoner interrogation, and undercover agent operations.

The work of an intelligence operator during the war was demanding and perilous, requiring a sharp, attentive mind and unwavering determination. These individuals played a pivotal role in shaping the course of the war, often working behind desks or in the heat of battle, collecting and analyzing information that could tip the scales in favor of victory. Their tireless efforts and sacrifices contributed to the ultimate triumph of the Allied forces.

In conclusion, the story of U.S. military intelligence during World War II is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the American people. Through their collective efforts and unwavering commitment, the military was able to overcome one of the greatest challenges of the 20th century, ultimately securing victory and establishing a new world order. The documents collected in this book serve as a valuable resource for historians, military personnel, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of intelligence gathering and analysis during times of war.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 161 x 236 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636243849