Small Wars Manual (USMC) The Small Wars Manual is a US Marine Corps publication used as an aid to education and training in the historical approach of Marine Corps units conducting operations in low-intensity conflicts, referred to as "small wars." The manual is one of the best books on military operations in peacekeeping and counterinsurgency operations published before World War II. The book has garnered renewed interest for insight into understanding current "small wars" in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. The manual has been reprinted for informational purposes only, and is not endorsed by the USMC. Click here for free download (PDF - 25.87 MB) (Source: US Marine Corps - released)