During the opening four months of the First World War no fewer than 46 soldiers from the British and Commonwealth armies were awarded Britain's highest award for gallantry, the Victoria Cross. In a series of mini-biographies, Gerald Gliddon examines the men and the dramatic events that led to the award of this most coveted of medals. These men were "ordinary" soldiers from widely differing social backgrounds, who all acted above and beyond the call of duty. Each story is told chronologically and offers a fresh perspective on the opening stages of the "war to end wars."
Gerald Gliddon Boeken






At the end of 1917, after three years of trench warfare on the Western Front, the Allied armies of Britain and France, and those of their main opponent, Germany, had reached a point of exhaustion and hibernation. Nevertheless, although the German Army left the British Army reeling, the Tommies retreated in good order and fought all the way.
By August 1918 fortune was on the side of the Allies: America was increasing its contribution of troops and equipment substantially; and Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig found a new confidence, firmly believing that the Allies could at last push the Germans out of France and Belgium.
Vcs of the First World War: Arras and Messines 1917
- 288bladzijden
- 11 uur lezen
Focusing on the pivotal events of April 1917, this book details the Battle of Arras, highlighting the Canadian Expeditionary Force's capture of Vimy Ridge and the fierce battles for Monchy le Preux and Gavrelle. It also covers the victories at Bullecourt and Messines Ridge in the following months. Notably, it recounts the stories of Sergeant Edward Mott and Private Thomas Barratt, both awarded the Victoria Cross, emphasizing the bravery and sacrifices of Commonwealth troops during this critical period of World War I.
A publisher and bookseller specializing in military history provides coverage of the World War I battles which resulted in the awarding of 50 Victoria Crosses, the British Commonwealth's highest award for valor. Much of the book focuses on the period from the Battle of Arras in April 1917 to the May-June successes at Bullecourt and Messinas Ridge at the Franco-Belgian border. Includes photographs of the VC soldiers, their graves and memorials. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.
Cambrai 1917
- 288bladzijden
- 11 uur lezen
Featuring comprehensive biographies of all Victoria Cross winners from World War I, this series is an essential resource for military historians and genealogists. It provides in-depth insights into the lives and valor of these decorated individuals, highlighting their contributions and sacrifices during the war. This unique collection serves as a valuable reference for understanding the personal stories behind the medals, making it indispensable for those interested in military history.
VCs of the First World War: The Final Days 1918
- 304bladzijden
- 11 uur lezen
On 11 November the Canadian Corps retook Mons and, following the signing of the armistice, the guns finally fell silent at 11 a.m. Covering the six-week period from the Battle of Canal du Nord to Armistice Day, this volume tells the story of the fifty-six VC winners from France, Canada and Britain who fought in the victorious Allied advance.
Gerald Gliddon's classic survey of the Somme battlefield in 1916, first published in 1987 to great acclaim, has been greatly expanded and updated to include the latest research and analysis.
