Back to Mandalay , first published in 1951, is noted correspondent Lowell Thomas's engaging account of the Burma Campaign in World War II. Led by British General Orde Wingate, the book describes the formation of the Chindits - troops specializing in operations in Japanese-occupied territory - and his innovative tactics and approach to war including the use of gliders to transport large numbers of troops. Sadly, Wingate was killed in a plane crash in India in March 1944 at the age of 41. Included are 2 maps and 53 pages of illustrations.