Description

Book Synopsis

From 1947 to 1963 some 2.3 million men were conscripted to do national service. For some it was to prove the most exciting and terrifying time of their lives, as many were sent to the Korean War or to countries such as Palestine and Kenya where the terrorist threat was ever-present. They faced death and learned about sex. For others, it was a frustrating interference in their lives, made all the more ridiculous by endless hours of square-bashing or painting coal white.
Tom Hickman shows just how varied were the experiences of the recruits. By talking to over 80 veterans, he recalls the hilarious and moving stories from those times, and seeks to explain why the subject still causes debate more than 40 years on. Above all, The Call-Up is a portrait of a vanished era that many still feel has something to teach us today.



Trade Review
'fascinating account of National Service...A compelling read about compulsory military service during peacetime' * Sun *

The CallUp A History of National Service

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    £10.99

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    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Mon 29 Jun 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Tom Hickman

    5 in stock

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      View other formats and editions of The CallUp A History of National Service by Tom Hickman

      Publisher: Headline Publishing Group
      Publication Date: 05/09/2005
      ISBN13: 9780755312412, 978-0755312412
      ISBN10: 0755312414
      Also in:
      True war and combat stories

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      From 1947 to 1963 some 2.3 million men were conscripted to do national service. For some it was to prove the most exciting and terrifying time of their lives, as many were sent to the Korean War or to countries such as Palestine and Kenya where the terrorist threat was ever-present. They faced death and learned about sex. For others, it was a frustrating interference in their lives, made all the more ridiculous by endless hours of square-bashing or painting coal white.
      Tom Hickman shows just how varied were the experiences of the recruits. By talking to over 80 veterans, he recalls the hilarious and moving stories from those times, and seeks to explain why the subject still causes debate more than 40 years on. Above all, The Call-Up is a portrait of a vanished era that many still feel has something to teach us today.



      Trade Review
      'fascinating account of National Service...A compelling read about compulsory military service during peacetime' * Sun *

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