Military institutions Books

Book SynopsisA definitive analysis of the weapons, equipment, deployment, tactics and motivation of these national forces, as well as fascinating detail of day-to-day life for the soldiers that fought the battles

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Book SynopsisThe Varangian Guards were Viking mercenaries who operated far beyond their native shores as an elite force within the Byzantine Armies. Descendants from a legendary line of warriors, the Varangian Guard was formed after a group of Viking mercenaries made a major contribution to the Byzantine Emperor Basil II's victory over rebel forces in 988 AD. These 5,000 men were then retained as Basil's personal guard and would provide loyal service to many successive occupants of the imperial throne. Commonly referred to as 'foreigners' (Etaireia), they were nonetheless absorbed into a new Palatine regiment under command of an officer termed the Akolouthos, who was either a Norsemen or a Rus (Norsemen colonisers of Russia). The Varangians wore mixtures of their native clothing and armour together with a splendid formal Byzantine uniform. But most famously, they always wielded their own traditional battle-axes and in fact this became a sign that the emperor was on the battlefield in person. This is an insightful look of one of the legendary guard units of the medieval world.Table of ContentsIntroduction /History of the Regiment /Organization /Terms of service and everyday life /Clothing /Arms and Equipment

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Book SynopsisThis book offers an extended introduction to the artillery and personal firearms of the Great War, with particular focus on iconic weapons such as the Maxim machine gun. It is a unique insight into the material culture that not only enabled the horrors of the Somme, Passchendaele and Gallipoli but also provided the means to bring peace in 1918.

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Book SynopsisSince the end of their involvement in the Vietnam War, the Australian Army has been modernized in every respect. After peacekeeping duties in South-East Asia, Africa and the Middle East in the 1980s90s, ''Diggers'' were sent to safeguard the newly independent East Timor from Indonesian harassment in 1999, and to provide long-term protection and mentoring since 2006. Australian Army units have served in the US-led wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and Australian Special Forces are currently operating alongside US and British elements against ISIS in northern Iraq. During these campaigns the Australian SAS Regiment and Commandos have fully matured into ''Tier 1'' assets, internationally recognized for their wide range of capabilities. The book, written by an Australian author who has written extensively about modern warfare, traces the development of the Army''s organization, combat uniforms, load-bearing equipment, small arms and major weapon systems using specially commissionedTable of ContentsIntroduction: the 'Diggers' – history and character – recent organization; British and US influence/ The lean years, 1970s/ Modernization, 1980s/ Peace-keeping, 1980s–90s: Rwanda, Cambodia, Lebanon, Somalia/ East Timor: Op 'Stabilise', 1999; Op 'Astute', 2006/ Afghanistan: Special Forces Task Group, 2001–2002/ Iraq: Special Operations Forces, 2003; Battle Group, 2005–2008/ Back to Afghanistan: Special Forces/Special Operations Task Group, 2005–2013; Reconstruction Task Force, 2006–2012. * Evolution of Australian Special Ops Forces; return to Iraq/ The future: 2016 Defence White Paper/ Weapons, equipment and vehicles; uniforms, load-bearing equipment and body armor/ Select Bibliography/ Plate Commentaries

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Book SynopsisTheir ferocity is as legendary as their loyalty to the British Monarch and their regimental histories are crammed with actsof incredible bravery and sacrifice. The Gurkhas'' particular reputation as fearsome fighting men remains undisputed and the mere threat of their kukri knives has put fear into the hearts of opposing forces throughout the world.The Gurkhas have been on the British frontlines since 1815 and these small but extraordinarily tough fighters have demonstrated their courage ever since, in battles ranging from the Indian Mutiny through Afghanistan to Kosovo.John Parker has fully updated his bestselling book to include the Gurkhas'' recent operations in Africa and to celebrate their successful campaigning for British citizenship. His book is a fascinating testimony to a fighting force that standsdramatically apart in British military history.Trade ReviewParker provides a comprehensive look at the Gurkhas and their history right up to the present day. * Forces News - Lockdown Reads 2020 *The incredible story of these feared warriors * Daily Mail *John Parker's book is a fascinating testimony to a fighting force that stands dramatically apart in British military history * Heartland Evening News *The incredible story of these feared warriors * Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisA paperback edition of this classic work, which describes and illustrates the uniforms and equipment of the WWII British soldier using original items worn by live models in authentic settings.

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Book SynopsisIn the turbulent times of the post-World War One era, new political parties emerged frequently in Germany, many with opposing extremist policies. The Communist movement grew out of the Socialist working classes using the Russian Bolshevik Party as a template. In direct opposition, the new National Socialist German Workers Party under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, occupied the extreme right-wing position. Head on conflict was inevitable and both parties organised violent demonstrations against the other. Hitler recognised that he was physically vulnerable and ordered the formation of his own protection squad, made up of loyal men who would not shirk from a fight. From the rudimentary ranks of Hitler's select few grew the infant SS, a modern praetorian guard, which developed over the years into a massive and efficient military style force with tentacles spreading into all elements of everyday life in Nazi Germany. To administer this organisation, Hitler appointed leaders upon whom he could rely. Many names remain obscure, but this book highlights who they all were and how they appeared.

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Book SynopsisCaferro has mined more than twenty archives in Britain and Italy, creating an authoritative portrait of Hawkwood as an extraordinary military leader, if not always an admirable human being.Trade ReviewThis is much more than a biography in the ordinary sense of the word... An excellent contribution to our understanding of both the mercenary phenomenon and the history of Italy in the late fourteenth century. Speculum Engaging book... Caferro has made sense of the life of a mercenary captain, who during his career influenced diplomacy, altered finances, and changed lives in fourteenth-century Italy. -- Duane Osheim Renaissance Quarterly A model of clear writing and an authoritative treatment of the military and political situation in Italy from the 1360s. -- John E. Law History It is... so well written and provides such a gripping account of John Hawkwood and his milieu that it will surely gain a wide audience among general readers as well. -- David S. Bachrach Historian The depth of Caferro's archival research has established him as Hawkwood's preeminent biographer. -- Dane Swango Comitatus Meets a real need... well researched and clearly presented, an important work for everyone interested in fourteenth-century Italy and medieval war. -- John Larner English Historical Review Superb biography... Sterling piece of work. -- Niccolo Capponi Journal of Military History A useful read for anyone interested in Renaissance Italy, the evolution of the practice of war, and even the interrelationship of art and society. NYMAS ReviewTable of ContentsList of Figures and MapsPrefaceHawkwood ChronologyIntroduction1. John Hawkwood in PerspectivePart I2. Essex Lad, King's Soldier, and Member of the White Company, 1323–13633. Italy and the Profession of ArmsPart II4. The Fox and the Lion5. John Hawkwood of Pisa and Milan, 1365–13726. In the Service of God and Mammon, 1372–1375Part III7. John Hawkwood and the War of Eight Saints, 1375–13778. Love and Diplomacy, 1377–13799. At Home in the Romagna, 1379–138110. Neapolitan Soldier and Tuscan Lord, 1381–1384Part IV11. The Deal with the Devil, the Birth of a Son, and a Victory at Castagnaro, 1385–138712. At the Center of the Storm13. The War against Milan, 1390–139214. Two Weddings, a Funeral, and a Disputed Legacy, 1392–1394–1412ConclusionAppendixesNotesReferencesIndex

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Book SynopsisThis book is a unique reference source for the uniform collector, modeller and student of military dress and equipment. For the first time the reader can trace the development of the colour and design of the Waffen-SS uniforms with confidence: all the uniforms worn in the 150 colour photographs presented here are rare, original items, from private collections. All major types of service uniform are illustrated, together with a full range of the unique camouflage clothing which was the hallmark of these much-feared divisions.

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Book SynopsisAn accessibly written and superbly illustrated introduction to armor used for battle, tournament, and ceremony This engaging book offers an introduction to and overview of armor in Europe from the Middle Ages through the 17th century, focusing in particular on the 16th century when plate armor reached its peak of stylistic beauty and functional perfection. Created by highly skilled armorers, often in cooperation with noted artists and commissioned by wealthy patrons, armor was worn for centuries on the battlefield, in festive tournaments, and for ceremonial events. Through informative discussions of representative works from the Metropolitan Museum’s world-renowned collection, this new addition to the popular How to Read series shows what to look for when examining armor, the pieces that make up a typical suit of armor, how the parts work, the various methods used to decorate armor, and how armor became an important part of so many museum collections today. The book features a wealth of new photography of historically important armor and other works of art from the Metropolitan Museum and select pieces from other institutions.Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Distributed by Yale University Press

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Book SynopsisSuperb images and description of British post war Main Battle Tanks.

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Book SynopsisRoyal Navy Uniforms 1930 - 1945 uses over 400 illustrations - both period images and new colour photographs of original items - to show the clothing of both Officers and Ratings in World War II and during the years leading up to it, when Naval uniforms underwent significant modernization. The illustrations are supported by detailed text describing the development and use of Naval clothing of the time. Its contents include Officers' clothing and effects; Class 1 and III Ratings' clothing and effects; seamens' clothing and effects; battledress and tropical clothing; miscellaneous clothing, personal effects and substantive and non-substantive insignia. This is the first book to offer a detailed study of Royal Navy clothing in the 1930s and World War II and will be a vital resource for collectors, historians and enthusiasts.

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Book SynopsisSome of the most brutally intense infantry combat in World War II occurred within Germany's Hrtgen Forest. Focusing on the bitterly fought battle between the American 22d Infantry Regiment and elements of the German LXXIV Korps around Grosshau, Rush chronicles small-unit combat at its most extreme.Trade ReviewA heartbreaking, day-by-day account - beautifully written - of the small unit action in the forest." —Army History"One of the finest case studies of modern infantry combat in any language." —Dennis Showalter, author of Tannenburg: Clash of Empires"Rush successfully marries combat analysis with social history to provide a new assessment of the American infantry units that battled the Wehrmacht from the beaches of Normandy to the Elbe River. In an exhibition of brilliantly imaginative and thorough research, he examines the training, leadership, tactics, and replacement policies that permitted American infantry regiments to remain cohesive enough to keep gaining ground despite personnel losses that totaled sixty-four percent by the war's end. Cutting edge scholarship on the U.S. Army's war in the ETO." —Journal of American History"A gripping tale of American GIs facing combat under the worst imaginable conditions." —Peter Mansoor, author of The GI Offensive in Europe: The Triumph of American Infantry Divisions, 1941-1945"A superb combat history that shatters long-held concepts on American versus German performance and vividly describes the horror and agony of close combat." —Edward G. Miller, author of A Dark and Bloody Ground: The Hurtgen Forest and the Roer River Dams, 1944-1945

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Book SynopsisThe divisions of the Waffen-SS were among the elite of Hitler's armies in the Second World War. But alongside the Germans in the Waffen-SS fought an astonishingly high number of volunteers from other countries. By the end of the Second World War these foreign volunteers comprised half of all Hitler's Waffen-SS, and filled the ranks of over twenty-four of the nominal thirty-eight Waffen-SS divisions. So during the most brutal war that mankind has ever known, hundreds of thousands of men flocked to fight for a country that was not theirs, and for a cause that was one of the most monstrous and barbaric in history. Who were these men, and why did they fight? Hitler's Gauls is an in-depth examination of one of these legions of foreign volunteers, the Charlemagne division, who were recruited entirely from conquered France. The men in Charlemagne, often motivated by an extreme anti-communist zeal, fought hard on the Eastern Front including battles of near annihilation in the snows of Pomerani

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Book SynopsisThe Black Watch is one of the finest fighting forces in the world and has been engaged in virtually every worldwide conflict for the last three centuries. Named after the dark tartan of the soldiers'' kilts, it is the oldest Highland regiment. As part of the British army, their first battle abroad was in Flanders in 1745 but the regiment soon moved to North America to fight the French, and then shared the capture of Montreal, the Windward Islands and Martinique. The American War of Independence saw the regiment once again in America, fighting horrific battles and eventually storming Fort Washington in 1776. Since then the regiment has held its own from the Napoleonic Wars to the Indian mutiny to Iraq. The Black Watch is the UK''s most decorated regiment, combining the proud history and tradition of an organisation that has been soldiering for over 250 years.Trade ReviewA compelling account of an often heroic history * THE SCOTSMAN *Parker laces his narrative of the broad sweep of military events with poignant snapshots * GLASGOW HERALD *A cracking tale of courage... a wonderfully readable account * FOCUS *

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Book SynopsisLieutenant General Sir Brian Horrocks was a legend in his lifetime. He leapt to fame as a Brigade, Divisional and Corps Commander during the Second World War where his dashing style, good luck and easy manner won him huge respect and great success. He was happiest in the frontline and yet his victories in the field were hard won, be they in North Africa or NW Europe. By 1944 he was commanding 200,000 men of all Allied nations who did not agree on much else but all thought highly of him. His attributes brought him success in industry, as a TV presenter and as Black Rod, in the Houses of Parliament.

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Book SynopsisThe Gurkhas are an elite fighting force from Nepal who have served the British Crown since 1815. They occupy a unique place in the public's imagination, and are renowned for their loyalty, professionalism and resolve. Through stunning photography, Arc of the Gurkha explores the span of the Gurkha career from recruitment through to training and deployment up to post-military employment and retirement. Alex Schlacher has accompanied the Gurkhas on operations in Afghanistan, on exercises in the Brunei jungle and Australia, and has visited all the units in the Brigade as well as retired and medically discharged Gurkhas. She has taken intimate portraits of hundreds of soldiers and heard their stories, many of which are recounted in this book. There have been other books on the Gurkhas, but none has portrayed the individual soldiers and focused about their backgrounds, lives and thoughts. This unique and insightful publication is the first to explore what it really means for a Gurkha to be a Gurkha.Trade Review"Everything about this project is extraordinary... The book Arc of the Gurkha - From Nepal to the British Army is the ultimate portrait of this cast of warriors." --Special Operations Forces Report "a vivid book of images." --The Washington PostTable of ContentsIntroduction by Brigadier Ian Rigden 8 A short history of the Brigade of Gurkhas 10 chapter 1: RECRUITMENT 17 chapter 2: BASIC TRAINING 67 chapter 3: SERVICE 107 Training and Development 110 Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas 128 Gurkha Staff and Personnel Support Company 134 Training Support Companies 140 Queen's Gurkha Engineers 148 Queen's Gurkha Signals 162 Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment 176 Royal Gurkha Rifles 188 Exercises and Operations 204 chapter 4: RETIREMENT 255 Acknowledgements 282 Index 284

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of the celebrated Great War memoirTrade Review'...a remarkable and fascinating account...' --Phil Carradice, BBC

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Book SynopsisA full and authoritative illustrated history of Russia's army since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, including Air Assault and Navy ground forces.Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia''s army has undergone a turbulent transformation, from the scattered left-overs of the old Soviet military, through a period of shocking decay and demoralization, to the disciplined force and sophisticated ''hybrid war'' doctrine that enabled Vladimir Putin to seize Crimea virtually overnight in 2014. Using rare photographs and full colour images of the army in action, profiles of army leaders and defence ministers, as well as orders of battle and details of their equipment and dress, this is a vivid account of the army's troubled history and of its character, capabilities and status.Written by an internationally respected author with remarkable access to Russian-language sources and Russian veterans, this study is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the growing power Table of ContentsIntroduction Born in Crisis – the 1990s: creating a new army in the wreckage of the USSR – First Chechen War – peacekeeping missions – the damaging 'grandfather' culture in the ranks. 'Reform Tomorrow' – the 2000s: slow beginnings of reform under Putin – Second Chechen War – uncertainty and inertia at the top – the Cossack revival. The Georgian Turning Point - 2008: profiting from errors and lessons – Defense Minister Serdyukov and Chief of General Staff Makarov force through reforms. The Russian Army Today: structures, organization, chain of command – major annual exercise cycles, and what they teach us. Two Armies: the reformed one-third, and the unreformed two-thirds. The human dimension: volunteer soldiers and conscripts – Ukraine – continuing problem of crime in the military. Intervention Forces: Air Assault and Naval troops – Spetsnaz – anti-piracy operations – Crimea – 'non-linear war' doctrine. Tools of the Trade: weapons, vehicles, specialist AFVs – latest 'Ratnik' uniforms and equipment – drones. Select Bibliography

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Book SynopsisWhen the shadowy, notorious Spetsnaz were first formed, they drew on a long Soviet tradition of elite, behind-the-lines commando forces from World War II and even earlier. Throughout the 1960s-70s they were instrumental both in projecting Soviet power in the Third World and in suppressing resistance within the Warsaw pact. As a powerful, but mysterious tool of a world superpower, the Spetsnaz have inevitably become the focus of many ''tall tales'' in the West. In this book, a peerless authority on Russia''s military Special Forces debunks several of these myths, uncovering truths that are often even more remarkable. Now, since the chaotic dissolution of the USSR and the two Chechen Wars, Russian forces have seen increasing modernization, involving them ever more in power-projection, counter-insurgency and anti-terrorism and the Spetsnaz have been deployed as a spearhead in virtually all of these operations. This book offers a unique, absorbing guide to the secrets of the Spetsnaz, theiTable of ContentsIntroduction: overview; background in Russian history and culture The Spetsnaz Tradition: special units of the Bolshevik Red Guard, and behind-the-lines NKVD operations in World War II /Cold Warriors: foundation by GRU, 1950 Operations 1960s–70s: Angola, Czechoslovakia, etc, and order-of-battle 1980 Operations in Afghanistan, and order-of-battle Spetsnaz after the USSR: the turmoil of the 1990s Tajikistan and Moldova, imitation units in post-Soviet states Operations in Chechnya, the Chechen Spetsnaz Modern Spetsnaz: increasing strength and importance Naval Spetsnaz, and order-of-battle 2013 Special Weapons Index

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Book SynopsisFor over a century and a half, since the Uniform Regulations of 1856 were introduced, identification of rank amongst officers in the Royal Navy, its branches and its reserves has not been restricted to a single, or even small number, of insignia. Rank may be seen on jacket cuffs, on shoulder badges, on shoulder boards and on epaulettes. It may be seen on swords and buttons, and in the manner in which buttons are worn. Cap peaks indicate rank, as do collars, cocked hat ornaments and cuff slashes.

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Book SynopsisWith the exception of the royal marines, who adopted light infantry rank insignia from their earliest days, the Royal Navy was slow to introduce distinguishing rate badges for those serving on the 'lower deck'. Even when they were introduced, in 1853, the corresponding introduction of a uniform was still four years away. As for officers, the design and arrangement of buttons also played a part in distinguishing one rating from another.

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Book SynopsisA stunning full-colour tribute to the British Tommy in the last centenary year focusing on RemembranceTrade ReviewThis is a beautifully illustrated and highly detailed book, well worth reading if you are going to the battlefields for commemorations or are just interested in the very tough life of a WW1 soldier. * The Cultural Voyager *

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Book SynopsisTerracotta Warriors provides an intriguing, original and up-to-date account of one of the wonders of the ancient world. Illustrated with a wealth of original photographs, this is the first book available for the general reader. In one of the most astounding archaeological discoveries of all time, the Terracotta Warriors were discovered by chance by farmers in 1974. We now understand that the excavated pits containing nearly eight thousand warriors and hundreds of horses are only part of a much grander mausoleum complex. There is a great deal still to be discovered and understood about the entire area whichis now thought to cover around 100 square kilometres. And there is the tantalising possibility of the opening of the imperial tomb.Trade ReviewTell[s] us a great deal that is fascinating about the figures and the Emperor who ordered them to be built -- Nick Rennison * Daily Mail *Edward Burman examines the most up-to-date theories about these extraordinary artefacts -- Arminta Wallace * Irish Times *

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Book SynopsisClear, informative text supported by 100 excellent colour photographs of replica weapons, armour and costume in use.

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Book SynopsisWhen the amphibious Duplex Drive (DD) Sherman tanks of the 13th/18th Royal Hussars (QMO) touched down on the sand of Sword Beach as the vanguard of the D-Day invasion, ahead of the infantry and Commandos, it was the culmination of an evolution spanning several years. Switching roles from a mounted regiment in India, into a mechanised, armoured cavalry regiment, they fought in France in 1940, then faced an uncertain future, after evacuating through Dunkirk. However, the 13th/18th would subsequently be selected to spearhead the assault on Sword Beach in new, top secret amphibious tanks. Having successfully secured the beach on D-Day, the Regiment became heavily engaged in the battle for Normandy, earning themselves an excellent reputation with the infantry brigades which they supported, before pushing north into the Fatherland. Their casualties from D-Day onwards amounted to 142 Hussars lost, 236 wounded, with many gallantry awards received. In addition to recording the Regiment's ac

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Book SynopsisRoman Jarymowycz recounts the story of the Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada in three volumes, tracing its history from the roots to present day. Through diaries, letters, classified documents, and the regimental archive, he weaves the strands of a complex story into an epic narrative.

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Book SynopsisTo mark the 20th anniversary of the lifting of the British Armed Forces gay ban' on 12 January 2020, this book brings together a selection of LGBTQ servicemen and women who have served in the Armed Forces since the Second World War. Their stories are profoundly moving testaments to their loyalty, their courage on the battlefield, and their unswerving sense of right and wrong. Included are ten accounts of members of our Armed Forces who have lived remarkable lives. In some cases they were dismissed in disgrace or forced to resign when asked questions about their private lives. Their stories are those of remarkable sacrifice and courage in their units (and in battle), but who were forced to live in secret before their services were removed at the stroke of a pen after being declared 'no longer required' or dismissed in disgrace'. These are the stories of the David and Goliath battle for equality, through every court in the UK and Europe. For others their story is one of remarkable careers at the front line of operations worldwide, with accounts of service in the Second World War, the Falklands War, the Gulf Wars and the war in Afghanistan. This book celebrates the lives of servicemen and women who have stood tall and taken their place with pride and dignity in the fighting units of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Air Force and the British Army. These are the inspiring stories of people who have created amazing careers and sought and found a welcome denied to so many.

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Book SynopsisIn 1943, the New Brunswick Rangers were sent to Britain, converted into a heavy weapons support unit, and shipped off to Normandy.Originating as a 19th century militia, the New Brunswick Rangers were placed on active service for the first time during the Second World War, serving first in the Maritimes and Newfoundland. In 1943, the Rangers were sent to Britain, where they were converted to a heavy weapons support unit, armed with machine guns and mortars in preparation for the invasion of Normandy.In this illuminating account, Matthew Douglass uncovers their participation in the war: their arrival in Normandy and their contributions to the battles in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. Present at many of the critical moments of the campaign, the Rangers participated in the Battle of the Falaise Gap, which cleared the way for the advance on Paris and the German border; the Battle of the Scheldt, which secured the vital supply lines of the port of Antwerp; and the Battle of the Reichswald, when German resistance on the west bank of the Rhine was finally broken. Drawing on archival photographs and original source documents, Douglass's account of the Rangers' wartime experiences is a crucial piece in understanding the role of heavy weapons support units on the Western Front.The New Brunswick Rangers in the Second World War is volume 27 of the New Brunswick Military Heritage Series.

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Book SynopsisThis volume is designed to be an in-depth and nuanced philosophical treatment of the virtue of obedience in the context of the professional military and the broader civilian political community, including the general citizenry. The nature and components of obedience are critical factors leading to further discussions of the moral obligations related to obedience, as well as the related practical issues and implications. Pauline Shanks Kaurin seeks to address the following questions: What is obedience? Is it a virtue, and if it is, why? What are the moral grounds of obedience? Why ought military members and citizens be obedient? Are there times that one ought not be obedient? Why? How should we think about obedience in contemporary political communities? In answering these questions, the book draws on arguments and materials from a variety of disciplines including classical studies, philosophy, history, international relations, literature and military studies, with a particular focus on cases and examples to illustrate the conceptual points. While a major focus of the book is the question of obedience in the contemporary military context, many similar (although not exactly the same) issues and considerations apply to other political communities and in, particular, citizens in a nation-state. Trade ReviewIn an era where we again see a clash of ideologies between major powers, ethical and disciplined decision-making in military and civilian organizations is a strategic edge for Western nations. On Obedience provides an enlightened and highly readable examination of this through the lens of the benefits and limits of obedience. In doing so, it redefines our understanding of obedience, disobedience and the grey spaces between, and what it means for the challenges of leading in the 21st century." —Maj. Gen. Mick Ryan, Commander Australian Defence College, Canberra"This book is an excellent philosophical exploration of the concepts of obedience and disobedience, aimed not just at the military but also at all of us in society who must obey the rules and laws of our communities. Dr. Kaurin encourages the reader to consider not just when to obey orders, but when we might be morally required to be disobedient." —CHAPLAIN (SQNLDR) Revd. Dr. Nikki Coleman, Senior Chaplain Ethicist, Royal Australian Air Force"This book is a liberal education: morally engaged, intellectually serious, wrestling with the difficult problems of our time, and guided by classical literature. Pauline Shanks Kaurin helps us think about the purposes of obedience, under what circumstances disobedience to the military's 'unconditional liability contract' is justified, and how 'critical obedience' better serves both the practical and ethical needs of our military." —Kori Schake, Deputy Director-General, International Institute for Strategic Studies, and editor with Jim Mattis of Warriors and Citizens"New work on ethics and obedience is needed now more than ever, and Dr. Kaurin's contribution is brilliant. Her analysis is spot-on, insightful, accessible, and grounded in the latest research. This book belongs on military and leadership required reading lists. Conversations are called for from wardroom to boardroom, and Kaurin shows the way." —Prof. Shannon E. French, Inamori Professor in Ethics, Case Western Reserve University"The status of the military profession is balanced on the relationship with its citizenry. In On Obedience, Dr. Shanks Kaurin addresses this critical, but poorly understood concept. It is truly a book for our time, readdressing the questions of honor and obedience situated in today's complex political environment." —Nathan K. Finney and Tyrell O. Mayfield, editors of Redefining the Modern Military: The Intersection of Profession and Ethics "Citing ambiguous and troubling cases and public controversies drawn judiciously from the recent experiences of irregular and hybrid warfare, the author demonstrates that the classical or conventional dichotomy of 'unquestioning (passive) obedience' to orders, versus 'willful disobedience' (as previous writers like Samuel Huntington characterized it for generations of military practitioners) will no longer suffice for understanding the nature of the complex choices and actions that now routinely confront the average soldier, sailor or Marine in the exercise of combat operations. These choices and actions will instead require the exercise by rank and file military personnel of mature judgment, political prudence, and moral discernment in the contemporary field of combat, whether land, sea, air…or even, now, in space (not to mention in the 'fifth domain' of cyber conflict). The careful analysis and scrutiny that Professor Kaurin brings to these complex issues will significantly aid and advance the training, education, and practical preparation of military personnel to exercise their new, heightened responsibilities for confronting armed conflict in the 'grey zone.' Her work constitutes a truly remarkable contribution to professional military education." —George Lucas, Distinguished Professor of Ethics emeritus, U.S. Naval Academy "No one can engage in warfare without confronting moral dilemmas. Military organizations try to instill obedience and discipline in their members for when that time comes, but most leave it to the individual to figure out what those words mean. Professor Kaurin has addressed these issues and offered a deep but accessible guide for the military profession." —B. A. Friedman, Military Analyst, author of On Tactics and 21st Century Ellis

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Book SynopsisThe uplifting and unforgettable true story of a US Marine, the stray dog he met on an Afghan battlefield, and how they saved each other and now travel America together, spreading the message of stubborn positivity.In 2010, Sergeant Craig Grossi was doing intelligence work for Marine RECON—the most elite fighters in the Corps—in a remote part of Afghanistan. While on patrol, he spotted a young dog with a big goofy head and little legs who didn’t seem vicious or run in a pack like most strays they’d encountered. After eating a piece of beef jerky Craig offered—against military regulations—the dog began to follow him. Looks like you made a friend, another Marine yelled. Grossi heard, Looks like a ''Fred.'' The name stuck, and a beautiful, life-changing friendship was forged.Fred not only stole Craig’s heart; he won over the RECON fighters, who helped Craig smuggle the dog into heavily fortified Camp Leatherneck in a duffel bag—risking jail and Fred’s life. With the help of a crew of DHL workers, a sympathetic vet, and a military dog handler, Fred eventually made it to Craig’s family in Virginia. Months later, when Craig returned to the U.S., it was Fred’s turn to save the wounded Marine from Post-Traumatic Stress. Today, Craig and Fred are touching lives nationwide, from a swampy campground in a Louisiana State Park to the streets of Portland, Oregon, and everywhere in between. A poignant and inspiring tale of hope, resilience, and optimism, with a timeless message at its heart—it is not what happens to us that matters, but how we respond to it—Craig & Fred is a shining example of the power of love to transform our hearts and our lives.

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Book SynopsisBefore his spectacular career as General of the Union forces, William Tecumseh Sherman experienced decades of failure and depression. Drifting between the Old South and new West, Sherman witnessed firsthand many of the critical events of early nineteenth-century America: the Mexican War, the gold rush, the banking panics, and the battles with the Plains Indians. It wasn't until his victory at Shiloh, in 1862, that Sherman assumed his legendary place in American history. After Shiloh, Sherman sacked Atlanta and proceeded to burn a trail of destruction that split the Confederacy and ended the war. His strategy forever changed the nature of warfare and earned him eternal infamy throughout the South.Sherman's Memoirs evoke the uncompromising and deeply complex general as well as the turbulent times that transformed America into a world power. This Penguin Classics edition includes a fascinating introduction and notes by Sherman biographer Michael Fellman.

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Book SynopsisThe G.I. Bill fueled not only the development of the middle class: it also revitalized American democracy. Americans who came of age during World War II joined fraternal groups and neighborhood and community organizations and took part in politics at rates that made the postwar era the twentieth century''s civic golden age. Drawing on extensive interviews and surveys with hundreds of members of the greatest generation, Suzanne Mettler finds that by treating veterans as first-class citizens and in granting advanced education, the Bill inspired them to become the active participants thanks to whom memberships in civic organizations soared and levels of political activity peaked. Mettler probes how this landmark law produced such a civic renaissance. Most fundamentally, she discovers, it communicated to veterans that government was for and about people like them, and they responded in turn. In our current age of rising inequality and declining civic engagement, Soldiers to Citizens offersTrade Review"As a beneficiary of the GI Bill, I can't recommend enough Suzanne Mettler's examination of the Bill and its transformative effect on the lives of so many veterans like me. It's clear that Mettler has come to know the GI Bill through the veterans she met in the course of her research, and the result is as accurate a description of its design, implementation, and of the experiences of the soldiers who benefited from it as I have read. This book is a must-read not only for those interested in the Greatest Generation but also for anyone who wants to know what it takes to make a great country." --Senator Bob Dole"The GI Bill changed my life after my service in the Korean War just as it changed the lives of the World War II veterans whose experiences Mettler brings to light. They provide unassailable evidence of how a federal program revolutionized America for the better. But do not treat Soldiers to Citizens as simply a portrait of the past. This book offers a potent and timely counter argument to those in power who seek to privatize every non-military function of government and remove all sense of shared sacrifice or shared benefit."--Charles Rangel, U.S. Congressman"Mettler's terrific new book explores a little-known, but momentous chapter in the history of the 'Greatest Generation' of America's WWII veterans--why they became the most civic-minded generation in our history. She shows that the GI Bill was one of the great success stories in American public policy, a story that is astonishingly relevant to debates today about civic renewal and the role of government. For contemporary civic reformers this book is must reading." --Robert D. Putnam, Malkin Professor of Public Policy, Harvard University, and author of Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community"Breaks new ground in the study of the Greatest Generation. Mettler shows conclusively how the GI Bill not only helped male veterans improve "their stake in society" but how it also gave them the direction and tools to improve the society in which they had a stake." --Montgomery C. Meigs, General, US Army, Retired, and Louis A. Bantle Chair, Maxwell School of Syracuse University"Suzanne Mettler has written a magnificent book, showing how the GI Bill enabled soldiers returning from World War II to become fully participating citizens in American democracy. Not only did the GI Bill open access to education; it delivered benefits in a dignified way and demonstrated that government could make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and the nation. The experiences--and many individual voices--of the World War II generation come through loud and clear in this book. Scholars and students will gain a fresh perspective on the effects of public policy on citizen participation. And general readers will see what government at its best can do to spread opportunity and enrich citizenship in America."--Theda Skocpol, Victor S. Thomas Professor of Government and Sociology, and Director of the Center for American Political Studies, Harvard University, and author of Diminished Democracy: From Membership to Management in American Civic Life

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Book SynopsisRoman Jarymowycz recounts the story of the Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada in three volumes, tracing its history from the roots to present day. Through diaries, letters, classified documents, and the regimental archive, he weaves the strands of a complex story into an epic narrative.

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Trade Review"Glory in Their Spirit is an absolute pleasure to read and does justice to the bravery of four all but forgotten women who took on the Army in WWII." --Journal of American Ethnic History"Interesting, well-written, and accessible. Sandra Bolzenius unearths a treasure trove of rich, relevant primary source archival materials that highlights the lesser known experiences of black women in addition to speaking to the uniqueness of the military as a venue for the redress, and suppression, of rights."--Elizabeth Escobedo, author of From Coveralls to Zoot Suits: The Lives of Mexican American Women on the World War II Home Front "This well-written account of little-known yet essential stories of valor and protest will fascinate readers interested in WWII, women’s history, and heretofore untold stories of civil-rights trailblazers. Recommend Glory in Their Spirit to fans of Hidden Figures."--Booklist"Glory in Their Spirit is a compelling, deeply researched book." --Black Perspectives"An enlightening read, Glory in Their Spirit examines a little-known history of the war." --World War II Magazine"Bolzenius is to be congratulated for her unrelenting attention to detail while also addressing the historical context of why four black women felt duty-bound to take on the army during World War II. Glory in Their Spirit encompasses an impressive array of legal history, black history, and social history." --The Journal of American History"Meticulously researched and well-written. . . . This title will be a valuable resource for those interested in WW II government, African American and minority history, and women's studies. Recommended." --Choice"This work contributes new voices to the long civil rights movement narrative, and Black servicewomen are added to the ranks of activists who strove to eliminate discrimination in the United States. . . . Bolzenius's monograph provides significant insight." --H-War "Glory in their Spirit: How Four Black Women Took on the Army During World War II tells a significant story. It brings to light and life a forgotten episode in Massachusetts history, reminding us that the 'Greatest Generation' was by no means above reproach, perhaps condemnation, and by showing the pervasive prejudice of the mid-twentieth-century United States, illustrates how far we have come toward providing equal access." --Historical Journal of Massachusetts "Black men and Black women integrated the military as officers and as enlisted in different ways. This is the important and untold story of Black enlisted women and the unexpected way their integration occurred."--Judith Hicks Stiehm, editor of It's Our Military, Too: Women and the U.S. Military

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Book SynopsisBefore Rosa Parks and the March on Washington, four African American women risked their careers and freedom to defy the United States Army over segregation. Women Army Corps (WAC) privates Mary Green, Anna Morrison, Johnnie Murphy, and Alice Young enlisted to serve their country, improve their lives, and claim the privileges of citizenship long denied them. Promised a chance at training and skilled positions, they saw white WACs assigned to those better jobs and found themselves relegated to work as orderlies. In 1945, their strike alongside fifty other WACs captured the nation''s attention and ignited passionate debates on racism, women in the military, and patriotism. Glory in Their Spirit presents the powerful story of their persistence and the public uproar that ensued. Newspapers chose sides. Civil rights activists coalesced to wield a new power. The military, meanwhile, found itself increasingly unable to justify its policies. In the end, Green, Morrison, Murphy, and Young cTrade Review"Glory in Their Spirit is an absolute pleasure to read and does justice to the bravery of four all but forgotten women who took on the Army in WWII." --Journal of American Ethnic History"Interesting, well-written, and accessible. Sandra Bolzenius unearths a treasure trove of rich, relevant primary source archival materials that highlights the lesser known experiences of black women in addition to speaking to the uniqueness of the military as a venue for the redress, and suppression, of rights."--Elizabeth Escobedo, author of From Coveralls to Zoot Suits: The Lives of Mexican American Women on the World War II Home Front "This well-written account of little-known yet essential stories of valor and protest will fascinate readers interested in WWII, women’s history, and heretofore untold stories of civil-rights trailblazers. Recommend Glory in Their Spirit to fans of Hidden Figures."--Booklist"Glory in Their Spirit is a compelling, deeply researched book." --Black Perspectives"An enlightening read, Glory in Their Spirit examines a little-known history of the war." --World War II Magazine"Bolzenius is to be congratulated for her unrelenting attention to detail while also addressing the historical context of why four black women felt duty-bound to take on the army during World War II. Glory in Their Spirit encompasses an impressive array of legal history, black history, and social history." --The Journal of American History"Meticulously researched and well-written. . . . This title will be a valuable resource for those interested in WW II government, African American and minority history, and women's studies. Recommended." --Choice"This work contributes new voices to the long civil rights movement narrative, and Black servicewomen are added to the ranks of activists who strove to eliminate discrimination in the United States. . . . Bolzenius's monograph provides significant insight." --H-War "Glory in their Spirit: How Four Black Women Took on the Army During World War II tells a significant story. It brings to light and life a forgotten episode in Massachusetts history, reminding us that the 'Greatest Generation' was by no means above reproach, perhaps condemnation, and by showing the pervasive prejudice of the mid-twentieth-century United States, illustrates how far we have come toward providing equal access." --Historical Journal of Massachusetts "Black men and Black women integrated the military as officers and as enlisted in different ways. This is the important and untold story of Black enlisted women and the unexpected way their integration occurred."--Judith Hicks Stiehm, editor of It's Our Military, Too: Women and the U.S. Military

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsIntroduction: The Perils of Hazing / Hank Nuwer1. Dead to Rites: The Chlorine Poisoning of Henrietta Jackson / Hank Nuwer2. Hazing in Fraternities and Sororities: A Primer / Hank Nuwer3. A Need for Transparency: Parents, Students Must Make Informed Decisions About Greek Life Risks / Douglas Fierberg and Chloe Neely4. Shame: The Hidden Harm of Hazing for Victims and Hazers / Tracy Maxwell5. Sexual Hazing: A Wrongful Passage / Norm Pollard6. Ill Met by Moonlight: The First Fraternity Hazing Death / Hank Nuwer7. Eliminating Band Hazing: What Must Be Done / Malinda Matney8. Hazing and Gender: Lenses for Prevention / Elizabeth J. Allan and Morgan B. Kinney9. Listening to the Voices of the Hazed: An Examination of Race, Violence, and Black Fraternity Membership / Ashley Stone10. Unspoken Sisterhood: Women in African American Sororities and Their Physical and Mental Ordeals—"Weeding the Good from the Bad" / Gina Lee-Olukoya11. Sexually Exploitive Athletic Hazing and Title IX in the Public School Locker Room / Susan P. Stuart12. A Mother's Story: I Lost My Child to Fraternity Hazing / Debbie Smith with Stacey Kennelly13. How Alfred University Ended the Greek System to Become a Hazing Research Institution / Norm Pollard14. How Schools May Have Facilitated and Operationalized Hazing: An Interview with Peter F. Lake Author of The Rights and Responsibilities of the Modern University/ Hank Nuwer15. A Fraternity Model: Addressing Campus Alcohol Misuse and Abuse / Edward G. Whipple and Robert A. Biggs16. A Realistic Approach to Public Relations for Fraternities in Crisis / Ray Begovich17. A Sorority Hazing Hero Incurs the Wrath of Alums / Sarah Wild18. How Reforms and Reformers Played a Role in Changing a Hazing Culture / Allison Swick-Duttine19. Hazing Hides in Plain Sight: An Open Letter to Hazers from a Nationally Known Speaker / David Westol20. Hazing and University Ethics: The Need for Faculty Involvement and Guidance / James F. Keenan, SJ21. Understanding Hazing in the Perilous World of Guyland: An Interview with Michael Kimmel / Hank Nuwer22. An Unsolved Cold Case: How Did Joe Bisanz Die? / Hank Nuwer23. Women and a Feminine Leadership Style Can Defeat Hazing / Tracy Maxwell24. The Purdue Tank Scrap / David Hovde25. A Blueprint for Greek Reforms: How to Establish an Anti-Hazing Task Force with Concrete "Good First Steps" to Change a Hazing Culture / Travis T. Apgar26. Hazing and the Law and Litigation: What You Need to Know / R. Brian Crow and Colleen McGlone27. Smokeouts and Smokescreens: Military Hazing / Hank Nuwer

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Book SynopsisThis biography of Colin Powell explores his astonishing rise from a working-class immigrant neighborhood to the highest echelons of American military and political power.Trade Review“This work should be read by all national security professionals, uniformed service members, or any other governmental agency including the department of state and the intelligence community.” —The Strategy Bridge"This is no hagiography. Consisting of equal parts admiration and critical scrutiny, it is a tough and insightful portrayal of a commanding personality who was capable of both towering professional achievements and astonishing failures of judgment and ethics. Beyond pure biography, Matthews has produced a fascinating case study of the human elements of public service and leadership.” —Malcolm Byrne, deputy director, National Security Archive"Jeffrey Matthews's excellent biography rightly praises Colin Powell's distinguished service over the past half-century, while also delineating how Powell faltered at crucial moments while serving as George W. Bush's secretary of state. This is a comprehensive and compelling analysis." —Walter LaFeber, the Andrew and James Tisch University Professor Emeritus, Cornell University"At its base is a very well-written story about Colin Powell as fallible everyman. It is an almost existential portrait of the human condition. We all make choices every day; some are good, but some are grave errors in judgment that can have disastrous consequences for a family or for a nation. In my opinion, this book is the most important of the publications focusing on this turbulent period of American political and military history." —Howard Ball, author of Bush, the Detainees, and the Constitution"This work . . . covers the lofty career of Powell, who eventually became chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Secretary of State. The author highlights both the successes and failures of his subject, revealing a human being navigating the complexities of leadership and power at the highest levels. It showcases the difficulties and consequences of decision making at the strategic level." —Military Heritage"Colin Powell was a good soldier all his life. Trustworthy, loyal, he obeyed orders while exercising a measure of judgment and initiative within the scope of his authority. . . . Powell’s judgment and initiative went only so far, Jeffrey Matthews writes in his biography. . . . Matthews examines Powell’s formative experience and finds the key to his success as well as his limitations." —Shepherd Express"The consummate general, national security advisor, Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff, Secretary of State and Patriot is profiled and on full display in Matthews’ work. Well-researched and full of rich detail, the book seems to be a balanced, albeit critical, review of Powell’s 40+ years of service. . . . Matthews makes note of Powell’s followership as an ‘assistant’ and ‘deputy’ in many of his duties throughout his career, contributing to why he was a great leader. Yet ultimately, even the best leaders make mistakes and are fallible, and we can all learn from that." —Brigadier General Chad Manske, Commandant of the National War College"A captivating and balanced story of Powell’s remarkable career, and of what we can learn from both his good and bad followership. . . . The book is of special interest to readers of military history, political biography, and leadership." —Northern Kentucky Tribune“Jeffrey Matthews . . . offers a well-constructed, well-written . . . biography of Colin Powell, who was born in 1937 and remained a popular public figure long after his retirement from government in 2005. . . . Powell comes alive in these pages.” —Law and Liberty“Jeffrey Matthews’ Colin Powell: Imperfect Patriot is a thorough biography of Powell. . . . Relying on government documents and first-hand accounts, including a four-hour interview with Powell, Matthews presents a chronological appraisal of Powell’s life that is comprehensively researched and readable.” —The VVAA VeteranTable of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements Introduction Part I – The Military Years 1. Obedient Son (1937-1957) 2. Dutiful Soldier (1958-1969) 3. Follower and Commander (1970-1982) 4. Loyalist (1983-1988) 5. Chairman (1989-1993) Part II – The Civilian Years Chapter 6: Most Trusted Man (1993-2000) 7. Leader, Follower, and Odd Man Out (2001-2004) 8. Counselor – Iraq and the Rush to War (2002-2003) 9. Defender-in-Chief – Iraq and the Search for WMD (2003-2004) Epilogue Endnotes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisFrom 1973 to 1990 in Chile, approximately 370,000 young men were conscripted to serve in Augusto Pinochet's regime. Some were brutal enforcers, but many themselves endured physical and psychological abuse. Relying on unpublished material, interviews, and field notes, Passmore locates these individuals' narratives at the intersection of long-term histories of patriotism, masculinity, and poverty.Trade ReviewWith crisp prose and superb scholarship, Leith Passmore provides a groundbreaking exploration of the lives and memories of military conscripts under, and after, the seventeen-year rule of General Pinochet, South America's most famous violator of human rights in living memory."" - Paul W. Drake, author of Between Tyranny and Anarchy""Few books are able to capture, as this one does, the full complexity of the Pinochet dictatorship's horror. Passmore leads us, in magisterial fashion, into one of its darkest corners: the tortured memories of thousands of former conscripts transformed simultaneously into perpetrators and victims of the dictatorial nightmare."" - Verónica Valdivia, author of El golpe después del golpe: Leigh vs Pinochet (1960–1980)

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