"A detailed history of the Missile Defense Agency . . . a look at the people who operate an important element of America's anti-missile defense." —Kirkus Reviews Comprised of just three hundred soldiers, the United States Army's 100th Missile Defense Brigade and 49th Missile Defense Battalion utilize sophisticated and cutting-edge technology to monitor the skies and seas surrounding the country and shield three hundred million Americans against any potential nuclear threat. Named for the number of Spartan warriors who defended Greece at the Battle of Thermopylae, these vigilant individuals endure rigorous, always-evolving regimens to maintain peak efficiency in the event of an actual nuclear strike. Assigned to extraordinary locations at Fort Greely, Alaska and Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, the 300 are responsible for the highest levels of homeland security. They not only maintain a never-ending watch via radar and sensor arrays, but receive continuous training in operating advanced interceptors designed to home in on and destroy in-flight ballistic missiles. It's a complex—and occasionally unreliable—defense system that scientists and engineers are always improving and upgrading. With unprecedented access to the highly classified strategic nerve centers of US Northern Command in Cheyenne Mountain, years of research, and dozens of exclusive interviews with normally inaccessible missile crews, Wasserbly reveals the incredible true story behind the 300's essential defense operations."A true insider account. If you have the slightest interest in missile defense, The 300 is the book for you." ―Sean Naylor, New York Times–bestselling author of Relentless Strike"Wasserbly's narrative is not only compelling, but also informative and, at times, downright scary." —Michael Fabey, author of Heavy Metal