Description

Despite all technological advances, final mastery of any battlefield depends upon the tight-knit group of footsoldiers trained to manoeuvre, shoot and dig in. This first of a two-part study examines the methods by which the Western infantry of World War II - the German, British and US armies - actually brought their firepower to bear. Drawing upon period training manuals for the evolving theory, and on personal memoirs for the individual practice, this first book covers the organization and tactics of the squad of ten or a dozen men, and the platoon of three or four squads. The text is illustrated with contemporary photographs and diagrams, and with colour plates bringing to life the movement of soldiers on the battlefield.

Table of Contents

The infantryman's job as it was understood in 1939 · Organisation and weapons of the infantry squad, platoon and company · Digging in · Tactics in attack and defence - use of light machine guns, sub-machine guns, rifles and grenades · Command and control · Casualties and their effects

Product details

Published May 27 2021
Format Ebook (PDF)
Edition 1st
Extent 64
ISBN 9781472852755
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations 55 b/w; 8 col
Series Elite
Short code ELI 105
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Stephen Bull

Dr Stephen Bull worked for the National Army Museu…

Illustrator

Mike Chappell

MIKE CHAPPELL comes from an Aldershot family with…

Illustrator

Brian Delf

BRIAN DELF began his career producing artwork for…

Resources

Book Vote

Tell us what titles you would like to see published by Osprey, then vote for your favourites in our monthly book vote!

Related Titles

Sign up for Osprey membership for access to thousands of plane profiles, maps, battle scenes and more. Plus up to 30% off website purchases