Subject
Offensive (Military science) Books
Best books
James Mercur
Attack of Fortified Places. Including Siege-works, Mining, and Demolitions. Prepared for the use of the Cadets of the United States Military Academy
"Attack of Fortified Places: Including Siege-works, Mining, and Demolitions" by James Mercur is a military engineering manual written in the late 19th century. It serves as a comprehensive guide for cadets at the United States Military Academy, detailing modern methods for attacking fortified positions, including various strategies and the construction of defenses. The focus of the book is on the technical aspects of siege warfare, as well as the appropriate application of artillery, trenches, and other fortifications. The opening of the book presents a preface that outlines its purpose: to provide an outline of best practices in military engineering for besieging fortified locations. Mercur emphasizes the need for careful planning and construction to adapt to the advancements in weaponry that have rendered older tactics obsolete. He discusses various attack methods such as blockades, surprise assaults, bombardments, and regular sieges, setting the stage for detailed examination in subsequent chapters. This portion highlights the importance of adapting strategies based on the conditions and technologies of modern warfare, making it a valuable resource for both historical study and practical military application.
Leslie Vickers
Training for the Trenches A Practical Handbook Based upon Personal Experience During the First Two Years of the War in France
"Training for the Trenches" by Leslie Vickers is a practical handbook written during the early 20th century, specifically in the context of World War I. The book draws on the author's personal experiences as a soldier and lecturer in trench warfare, providing insights and suggestions for new soldiers transitioning from civilian life to the military. Vickers aims to equip these potential infantrymen with essential skills and knowledge for combat in the trenches, emphasizing the importance of discipline, obedience, and health. The opening of the handbook discusses the challenges faced by civilians as they become soldiers, highlighting the drastic shift in lifestyle and the necessity of learning to follow orders and cooperate in a military environment. Vickers reflects on personal adjustments he had to make, such as the loss of independence and the impact of strict routines. He emphasizes that the foundation of effective military training lies not only in physical preparedness but also in mental resilience and adaptability to new, demanding circumstances. The introduction sets the stage for deeper explorations into various aspects of trench warfare, focusing on the lessons learned and the practical measures soldiers must adopt to survive and thrive in the field.
André Laffargue
The Attack in Trench Warfare: Impressions and Reflections of a Company Commander
"The Attack in Trench Warfare: Impressions and Reflections of a Company Commander" by Capt. André Laffargue is a military treatise that provides a detailed account of trench warfare tactics during the early 20th century, specifically the First World War. Written during the war's peak around the early 1910s, the book serves as a strategic examination of infantry assault methods, particularly the complexities involved in attacking entrenched positions. Laffargue discusses the nature of his experiences as a company commander and offers insights into the preparation and execution of assaults in the brutal context of trench warfare. In the book, Laffargue emphasizes the importance of preparation and coordination among various military units prior to an assault. He argues that successful attacks require overwhelming firepower, meticulous planning, and the morale of the troops. By detailing his personal experiences during significant battles, such as the one on May 9th, he illustrates the harsh realities of combat, such as the devastating impact of machine gun fire and the psychological effects on soldiers. The text serves not only as an analysis of military tactics but also as a reflection on the human cost of war, highlighting the need for cohesion and bravery among troops to overcome the odds stacked against them during assaults.
Army War College (U.S.)
Notes on Training for Rifle Fire in Trench Warfare
"Notes on Training for Rifle Fire in Trench Warfare" by Army War College is a military training manual compiled during the early 20th century, specifically in April 1917. This book serves as a practical guide for soldiers and officers engaged in trench warfare, detailing the tactics and strategies for effective rifle fire, particularly in the context of World War I. The focus of the publication lies in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of riflemen in the unique and demanding conditions of trench-based combat. The manual outlines essential training protocols for riflemen, emphasizing the crucial role of individual aimed fire amidst the harsh realities of trench warfare. It details various techniques and practices, including sniper training, aimed at precision shooting for both personal defense and offensive operations. The book discusses the positioning of sniper posts, effective concealment, and the organization of sniper teams, all while providing clear instructions on recognizing and describing targets for coordinated firing. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive resource for developing the skills necessary to operate effectively within the context of this specific type of warfare, catering to the survival and success of soldiers in the trenches.
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