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Books > Social sciences > Warfare & defence > Military life & institutions > General
In the past, while visiting the First World War battlefields, the
author often wondered where the various Victoria Cross actions took
place. He resolved to find out. In 1988, in the midst of his army
career, research for this book commenced and over the years
numerous sources have been consulted. Victoria Crosses on the
Western Front - Continuation of the German 1918 Offensives: 24
March - 24 July 1918 is designed for the battlefield visitor as
much as the armchair reader. A thorough account of each VC action
is set within the wider strategic and tactical context. Detailed
sketch maps show the area today, together with the battle-lines and
movements of the combatants. It will allow visitors to stand upon
the spot, or very close to, where each VC was won. Photographs of
the battle sites richly illustrate the accounts. There is also a
comprehensive biography for each recipient, covering every aspect
of their lives, warts and all: parents and siblings, education,
civilian employment, military career, wife and children, death and
burial/commemoration. A host of other information, much of it
published for the first time, reveals some fascinating characters,
with numerous links to many famous people and events.
Imported defence systems are like crutches that can provide only
temporary sustenance but not enduring muscle strength. Dependence
on imports makes a nation hostage to the policies of the exporting
nations and captive to the dictates of unscrupulous foreign
vendors. Therefore, 'Make in India' is a highly overdue clarion
call and a mission statement. The book identifies reasons for the
dismal state of the Indian defence industry and suggests corrective
measures. It recommends the integration of the private sector and
support to MSMEs. The need for an ecosystem to foster innovations
has also been emphasised. As the defence industry is characterised
by rapid obsolescence, regular infusion of the latest defence
technologies is essential. FDI is not just a question of getting
funds but accesses the latest know-how as well. Similarly, the
powerful leverage of offsets can be used to obtain technologies
that industrially advanced nations are unwilling to sell. Finally,
the book suggests the establishment of a Defence and Aerospace
Commission to oversee all functions pertaining to armament
production, acquisitions and exports.
The Greek hoplite, the archetypal spear-armed warrior, is perhaps
the most prevalent figure in our view of the 'Golden Age' of
Ancient Greek civilisation. It was during this period that the
state began to take greater responsibility for military
organisation, and the arming and equipping of its citizens. From
the victory at Marathon over Darius of Persia, through bitter
inter-state warfare, to the rise of Philip of Macedonia and his son
Alexander the Great, the hoplite soldier was in the front-line.
This title narrates the life and experiences of the common Greek
warrior, how he was recruited, trained and fought, and also looks
in detail at how his weapons, armour, shields and helmets developed
in the course of time.
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See Willy See
(Paperback)
Faith A. Colburn; Cover design or artwork by Brittany L Roos
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R444
Discovery Miles 4 440
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Ships in 10 - 15 working days
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This is a very interesting book full of valuable information of
particular use to young men who are contemplating entering West
Point. The book recalls many pleasant incidents of cadet life from
the author's own days at the academy.
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