Moldova was incorporated into the Soviet Union June 1940, and regained its independence on August 27, 1991. Shortly thereafter, Moldova faced challenges from Turkic-speaking Gagauz and ethnic Russians, both residing in Moldova's Dniestr valley, who proclaimed separatist "republics." Other challenges facing Moldovans include pursuing economic reform and choosing between potential reunification with their ethnic cohorts in Romania and forging an independent identity.

Front: Text describes action on various war fronts. Large world map is keyed to text and illustrates time zones around the world. Includes inset maps: Strategic distances in the North Pacific ; Attu Island ; the Rat Island group ; Jap drives [in China]. Photographs: Jungle fighting; Battle of Carriers; Planes that hit the enemy; Swimming through flames; Tomahawk takes it. Back: "These are some of the weapons which checked Hitler's armies." Includes photographs: Moving in column to the attack -- Armored train alert -- Light armored cars -- Anti-aircraft alarm -- Ready to fire -- Formation to the front -- Anti-aircraft machine gun -- Woods used for cover -- Mortar ready to fire -- Amphibian tanks on land... -- Horse-drawn anti-tank gun -- ... and on the sea.