Hey guys,

I was wondering if you guys have any thoughts on some reference books and US Militaria books to get. There are lots I see but for someone starting collecting Militaria what would be some first ones to get. I am now interested in Vietnam era and Korea. So any help on that would be appreciated.

Also, I am fascinated with the Spanish Civil War. So many political parties involved. Anarchist party, communist party, republic and Franco. The political posters are fascinating. Would this topic be on the world militaria forum or here.

Thanks guys...

For a different fourm for the spanish part but, for uniforms use osprey men at arms series. All the other material you'll find is in castellano. Also the spanish market is riddled with forgeries and put togethers so please be vigilant and the good stuff never comes to market and it's not cheap when it does.

Captain Shelby Stantons books on Korea and Vietnam uniforms and equipment would be good. Not expensive and hopefully easy to find locally or online. Stantons book on S.F. and of course his Order of Battle for Vietnam should be picked up. Sure there will be more excellent suggestions. You are wise to begin with reference books, good luck.

How many here are aware of the fact that the Soviet Union sent "advisors" to Spain in 1939. Their stated purpose was to assist the left-wing government of Manuel Azaña. They succeeded in their real purpose. They stole ~490 tons of Spanish gold reserves and transported it from Madrid to Moscow. I don't think Spain ever got her gold back.