Mentioned in Dispatches
Mentioned in Dispatches is a podcast hosted by Dr Tom Thorpe that explores all aspects of the First World War. Produced in association with the Western Front Association, the UK's leading First World War history society, it features expert discussion, interviews and analysis. Episodes cover battles, personalities, tactics, remembrance and the wider impact of the conflict.
Episodes
Ep393 – Roger Casement, Reginald ‘Blinker’ Hall and the Irish Revolution – Rory Carroll
Ep392 – Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade – Janet Skeslien Charles
Ep391 – Morale in Salonika – Dr Jake Gasson
Ep390 – Walking the Western Front – Briana Gervat
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast, Briana Gervat discusses her book There Will Come Soft Rains, which recounts her extraordinary solo walk along the Western Front from the Swiss border to the North Sea. Briana reflects on the journey, the landscapes and communities she encountered and what walking the length of the former Western Front revealed abou
Ep389 – Rory O’Connor and the Irish Revolution – Gerard Shannon
In this podcast, Gerard Shannon discusses his biography of Rory O’Connor, a key figure in the Irish revolutionary period. He explores O’Connor’s journey from engineer to senior IRA leader and his involvement in the political and military struggles of the time. The interview examines the tensions that led to the Irish Civil War and O’Connor’s eventual execution. Gerard also reflects on the complexi
Ep388 – The sinking of HMS India – Rachel Clarke
In this episode, Rebecca Clarke examines the sinking of HMS India in 1915 and the extraordinary stories of the survivors who were interned in Norway. Drawing on family archives and personal letters, she reconstructs the experiences of these sailors during and after the sinking. The interview highlights lesser-known aspects of naval warfare and the long-term consequences for those involved. Rebecca
Ep387 – Shellshocked soldiers returning from the Battlefield – Patrick Taylor
In this podcast, Patrick Taylor discusses his research into the experiences of shell-shocked servicemen returning to civilian life after the First World War. Drawing on archival sources from Britain and Australia, he examines issues of rehabilitation, family relationships and the role of charities and the state. The interview highlights the long-term impact of psychological trauma and the challeng
Ep386 – Framing the Great War – Drs Aimee Fox, Mike Finch & David Morgan-Owen
In this episode, Aimée Fox, Mike Finch and David Morgan-Owen discuss their edited volume on how the First World War was perceived and interpreted by those who experienced it. They explore how different groups, including soldiers, commanders and politicians, framed the conflict and how those perspectives influenced decision-making. The interview highlights the diversity of viewpoints and the import
Ep385 – The Barnbow Disaster – Antony Bell
In this podcast, Antony Bell discusses the historical background to his novel A Penny a Shell, focusing on the 1916 Barnbow munitions factory explosion. He explores the lives of the women workers, known as the Barnbow Lasses, who laboured under dangerous and secretive conditions. The interview highlights the scale of the disaster, its impact on the local community and the broader role of women on
Ep384 – The Saxons in Flanders, 1914-8 – Andrew Lucas
In this episode, Andrew Lucas about hisi book with Jürgen Schmieschek that explores Saxon soldiers during the First World War. Using personal writings, they examine how German troops experienced combat on the Western Front, particularly in Flanders. The interview explores daily life, combat conditions and the emotional toll of prolonged warfare. Andi also reflects on the importance of presenting
Ep383 – Smith Dorien saving the British army – Charles Barrington
In this episode, Charles Barrington re-examines the life and career of Sir Horace Smith-Dorrien, focusing on his decisive actions during the early stages of the First World War. The interview explores his leadership at the Battle of Le Cateau and his role in stabilising the British Expeditionary Force during its retreat. Barrington challenges traditional narratives that have overlooked Smith-Dorri
Ep382 – Three sons for the Kaiser – Hazel Strouts
In this edition of the Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast, Hazel Strouts talks about her book Three Sons for the Kaiser: A German Family’s Sacrifice in the First World War, a moving account of Philipp Gercke and his three sons, all of whom served, in the Imperial German armed forces and only on returned.
Ep381 – Britain, oil and Baku in 1918 – Nick Higham
In this episode, Nick Higham explores Britain’s extraordinary and often overlooked campaign in the Caucasus during the closing stages of the First World War. Drawing on his book Mavericks, he discusses the diverse group of soldiers, diplomats and intelligence officers sent to Baku to prevent Ottoman and Bolshevik control of critical oil resources. The interview highlights the strategic importance
Ep380 – Henry Tudor in Ireland – Linden MacIntyre
In this podcast interview, Linden MacIntyre discusses his exploration of Sir Hugh Tudor, a deeply controversial figure in the Irish War of Independence. He explains the motivations behind writing An Accidental Villain and examines Tudor’s transformation from a respected British Army officer into a central figure in Britain’s coercive policy in Ireland. The conversation explores Tudor’s relationshi
Ep379 – The memorial to the US 42nd Division – Dr Monique B. Seefried
Ep378 – Guards Division, 1915-17 – David Griffiths
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, David Griffiths discusses his new book The Guards 1915–17: An Elite Division at War. The book is the first major history of the Guards Division in nearly a century, drawing on war diaries and memoirs to follow the unit through Loos, Flers-Courcelette, Morval and Pilckem Ridge. Griffiths also examines the culture, reputatio
Ep377 – Administration of Death – Kelsey Moriarty
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, Kelsey Moriarty examines the bureaucratic and cultural processes that reshaped grief during and after the First World War. Her thesis Kafka in the Trenches: Death, Bureaucracy, and the Written Record in Britain 1914–1920 explores how official letters, forms and memorials affected the experience of mourning. From government
Ep376 – War Memorials in Devon – Dr Todd Gray
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, historian Dr Todd Gray discusses his award-winning book Lest Devon Forgets. The book explores the creation, meaning and controversies surrounding the county’s Great War memorials, shedding light on how communities in the wake of the conflict grappled with loss, identity and memory. Published by Stevens Books.
Ep375 – Burial of L-Cpl John Street – Mike Jackson
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, Mike Jackson tells the story of his great-uncle, Lance Corporal John Street, who fell in 1917 and whose sacrifice went unrecognised for more than a century. On 10th April 2025, Street will finally be laid to rest with full military honours near the battlefield where he died. Jackson, a retired training manager and military
Ep374 – Angel Down – Daniel Kraus
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, acclaimed author Daniel Kraus discusses his novel Angel Down — a haunting, formally ambitious reimagining of the First World War told through a single, continuous sentence. The book explores themes of survival, selfishness, the supernatural and the staggering human cost of mechanised slaughter, immersing readers in the mor
Ep373 – Teeside Pioneers in the GW – Gary Guess
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, researcher Gary Guess shares his work on the 12th (Service) Battalion of the Yorkshire Regiment, known as the Teesside Pioneers. Recruited largely from Middlesbrough and surrounding towns, the battalion served with distinction in France, combining infantry courage with engineering labour under fire. Guess, who has spent si
Ep372 – Patriotism on the Devon Home Front – Dr Richard Batten
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, Dr Richard Batten, Honorary Research Fellow in History at the University of Exeter, discusses his new book For King and Country: The Role of Patriotism in Mobilisation in the First World War, published by Pen & Sword in 2025. Focusing on Devon but addressing wider national and European themes, the book explores how loc
Ep371 – Walking the Western Way – Nick and Fiona Jenkins
In this episode of the Western Front Association’s Mentioned in Dispatches, Nick and Fiona Jenkins discuss their remarkable journey along the entire Western Front. In Walking the Line, they travelled over 1,000 kilometres from the Belgian coast to the Swiss border to discover what physical and emotional traces of the First World War still remain. With humour, resilience and a healthy dose of wine,
Ep370 – Sinking of the Llandovery Castle – Nate Hendley
Ep369 – Army Pay Services – Dr John Black
Ep368 – Shellshock in Canadian Museums – Cameron Telch
Cameron Telch, a doctoral candidate in Educational Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University, discusses the underrepresentation of shell shock in Canadian war museums. He shares two important archival discoveries—a 1919 Canadian film and a 1958 American play—that offer new perspectives on the cultural memory of psychological trauma in the First World War. His research challenges prevailing narrati
Ep367 – London TF in two world wars – Prof Gary Sheffield
Professor Gary Sheffield compares and contrasts the experience of the London Territorial Force in the First and Second World Wars. He explores the evolution of its role, structure and public image across the two conflicts, offering fresh insights into the transformation of this key component of Britain’s military reserve. This talk was part of the London Pride Conference held in June 2024.
Ep366 – London Territorial Sappers – Dr John Peaty
Ep365 – Honouring the Fallen Through ‘The Last Post’
Ep364 – Boredom in Salonika – Dr Jake Gasson
Ep363 – Podcasting the Great War – Terry Whenham
Ep362 – 60th Division at Salonika – Charles Fair
Ep358 – Periodical publications of the London Regt – Sarah Paterson
Ep360 – London TF at Gallipoli – Clive Harris
On this week's Mentioned in Dispatches podcast, Clive Harris explores the role of London Territorials in the Gallipoli campaign of 1915–16. While no full London territorial division served there, six battalions, five Yeomanry regiments and two support units contributed around 8,500 men, spread across multiple formations from Helles to Suvla. Their experiences, challenges and the lessons they carri
Ep359 – The British League of Help – Nick Jenkins
On this week's Mentioned in Dispatches podcast, historian Nick Jenkins discusses the British League of Help and its efforts to support the reconstruction of French towns devastated during the First World War. His research reveals how communities across Britain came together to aid their French counterparts, shedding light on a little-known chapter of post-war humanitarian work. Nick spoke from his
Ep357 – A WWI Mystery Reunited After 110 Years – Philipp Cross
Ep361 – London Schools and the London TF – Tim Halstead
On this week's Mentioned in Dispatches podcast, Tim Halstead discusses the connections between London schools and the Territorial Force during the Great War. While the contribution of Public Schools to the Officer Corps is well known, this talk focuses on the less-explored role of Grammar Schools. Drawing on Rolls of Service from both school types in and around London, Halstead sheds light on thei
Ep356 – The London Regt and the RFC – Jon Davy
On this week's Mentioned in Dispatches podcast, John Davy examines the London Regiment’s links with the Royal Flying Corps and RAF during the Great War. Using primary sources, he offers a statistical analysis of the men who joined the RFC via the London Regiment and considers the impact of their loss on their original battalions. This episode was recorded for the London Pride Conference in June 20
Ep355 – Harry Potter – Alexander Paterson and the Bermondsey Battalion
On this week's Mentioned in Dispatches podcast, Harry Potter delves into the life and service of prison reformer Alexander Paterson, drawing on his wartime diary and letters. From gentleman ranker to officer in the Bermondsey Battalion, Paterson served at Loos and later held various roles including lecturer, defence counsel, intelligence officer and Sports and Recreation Officer. He also contribut
Ep354 – Stephen Sandford – London Irish Rifles in the GW
On this week's Mentioned in Dispatches podcast, Stephen Sandford explores the early history of the 18th Battalion London Regiment (London Irish) during the First World War. He examines the battalion’s formation, recruitment, training and unique cultural identity, as well as its connections to Ireland and its first action at Loos. This talk was recorded at the London Pride Conference, held in June
Ep353 – Edgar Loveland and the QWR – Steve Hammond
Ep352 – U boat technology and doctrine – Michèl Admiraal
Historian Michèl Admiraal joins Mentioned in Dispatches to discuss his research on the German U-boat campaign during the First World War. Admiraal, a recent MA graduate in Military History from Wolverhampton University, explores the relationship between technology, doctrine, and naval operations. His Stand To! article, Technology, Doctrine and the German U-boat Campaign, offers a detailed analysis
Ep351 – Royal Navy and invasion scares – Steve Dunn
This episode of Mentioned in Dispatches features historian and author Steve R. Dunn, who discusses his latest book, Spectre of Invasion: The Royal Navy and the Defence of Britain’s Coast, 1900–1918. The book examines Britain's persistent fears of invasion in the early 20th century, the strategic debates between naval and military defence advocates, and the reality of coastal raids and naval engage
Ep350 – Learning in the Rangers – Mark Jones
Ep349 – British Army before 1914 – Simon Batten
In this episode of Mentioned in Dispatches, historian Simon Batten discusses his book Futile Exercise?: The British Army’s Preparations for War 1902-1914. Simon explores the British Army's pre-war manoeuvres, training exercises and attempts to learn from past conflicts in the lead-up to the First World War. Highlighting the challenges of adapting to modern warfare, he examines whether these effort
Ep348 – Irish republican women in Ulster, 1914-1922 – Dr Margaret Ward
In this episode of Mentioned in Dispatches, Dr Margaret Ward, Honorary Senior Lecturer in History at Queen’s University Belfast, talks about her latest book Rebel Women: Cumann na mBan in Belfast and the Glens of Antrim, 1914–1924. In the interview, Dr Ward explores the remarkable contributions of Northern Irish women to the republican movement during one of Ireland’s most turbulent periods. Highl
Ep347 – The 8th Bn, West Surrey Regt – Prof. Ian Isherwood
In this episode, we are honoured to speak with Dr Ian Isherwood, a historian, scholar, and author of the newly released book The Battalion: Citizen Soldiers at War on the Western Front. Dr Isherwood provides a deeply researched and heartfelt account of the 8th Battalion, The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment), during the First World War. Drawing from personal letters, memoirs, and diaries, this
Ep346 – Invasion literature before WW1 – Tony Bolton
Ep345 – Legacy of shellshock after the GW – Dr Stefanie Linden
Ep344 – Comparing the Retreats, 1914 & 1940 – Prof. Gary Sheffield
In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Gary Sheffield, President of the Western Front Association, to explore his latest research comparing the British retreats of 1914 and 1940. Drawing from his forthcoming book on the British Army in both World Wars, Professor Sheffield provides an in-depth analysis of these two critical moments in military history. He discusses the tactical, logistical and
Ep343 – Unknown Soldier, Story of WW1 – David Preston
Author David L. Preston discusses his debut novel "Unknown Soldier: World War 1". Published by Azalea City Publishing LLC in June 2024, this historical fiction book that follows the story of James Reynolds, a young man from Thomasville, Alabama, who embarks on a journey of adventure and ends up fighting in the trenches of World War I as part of the Alabama 167th National Guard unit.
Ep342 – Defence of the Suez Canal, 1914-15 – Dr Adam Prime
In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Adam Prime, an independent scholar, to discuss the defence of the Suez Canal during the pivotal years of 1914 and 1915. Dr. Prime offers fascinating insights into the strategic importance of the canal during World War I, delving into the challenges faced by Allied forces in protecting this vital waterway. Speaking from his home in the NorthWe
Ep341 – African American Signallers – Dr Brian Hall
Academic Dr Brian Hall talks to me about his research into the overlooked experiences of the 325th Field Signal Battalion, the first Black signal unit in the U.S. Army during the First World War. His work highlights the battalion's contributions and the challenges they faced within a racially prejudiced military environment, arguing that their technical proficiency and combat service challenged ra
Ep340 – John Nichol – The Unknown Warrior
Author and former RAF navigator John Nichol talks about his latest book and theatre tour, The Unknown Warrior. This book is an exploration of the poignant history and enduring significance of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey, uncovering stories of sacrifice, remembrance, and the personal and collective impact of war. It is published by Simon & Schuster UK. Further info is here: www.Joh
Ep339 – Liberty Cadillac US1257X – Marc Lasson
In this episode, we're joined by Marc Lassen, who shares the captivating story of The Liberty Car—Cadillac US1257X. Discovered in 2005, this Cadillac officer's car had its WWI military history lost to time until Marc's dedicated efforts to authenticate and preserve its legacy. Through collecting countless artifacts and meticulous research, Marc has brought to light the extraordinary service record
Ep338 – Public Schools in the Great War – Timothy Halstead
In this episode, Timothy Halstead takes us on a journey through the involvement of public school boys in the Great War, challenging traditional perceptions and offering fresh insights into their role and experiences. Drawing from his ground-breaking work, "More Than Victims of Horace," Halstead unveils the complexities of this narrative, demonstrating that the reality was far more nuanced than pre
Ep337 – Orcadians in the Gordon Highlanders in WW1 – Tom Ordeman
In Episode 337 of MiD, we shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked stories of Orcadians who served in the Gordon Highlanders during World War I. Led by the knowledgeable Tom Ordeman, this episode takes listeners on a captivating journey through the experiences of these brave soldiers from the Orkney Islands.
Tom, a dedicated historian with a passion for military heritage, meticulously unra
Ep336 – French Generals of the Great War – Dr Jonathan Krause & Prof. William Philpott
In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Jonathan Krause and Professor William Philpott illuminate the lives and leadership of the senior French generals who shaped the course of the First World War based on their recent book. Despite commanding the largest force on the Western Front and ultimately achieving victory, these generals remain largely obscured in historical accounts. Drawing from a wealt
Ep335 – Colin Hutchinson and the RFA – David Keable-Elliot
In this riveting episode, former GP and author Colin Hutchinson takes us on a compelling journey through the history of the Royal Field Artillery during World War I, as depicted in his book, "The Young Gunner." Drawing from the letters and journals of Second Lieutenant Colin Hutchinson, David’s relative, the narrative unfolds the gripping tales of front-line action across thirteen battles on the W
Ep330 – The Armistice on the Western Front- Prof Stephen Badsey
In this captivating episode, Professor Stephen Badsey offers a detailed analysis of the Armistice on the Western Front in November 1918. Drawing from his extensive expertise, Professor Badsey delves into the fast-paced timeline of events that unfolded during late October and early November 1918, leading to the momentous ceasefire that marked the end of World War I. This lecture, originally deliver
Ep334 – The Office of Military Secretary – Prof John Bourne
Prof. John Bourne talks about the essential role, activities, and function of the Office of the Military Secretary during the Great War. John offers valuable insights into this often-overlooked aspect of wartime operations. Explore the inner workings of the military bureaucracy that played a crucial role in shaping the course of the Great War.
Ep333 – Ireland in Ypres, 1914 – 2014 – Dr Dominiek Dendooven
Dr. Dominiek Dendooven delves into the history of Ireland's involvement and representation in Flanders during the Great War. Dominiek, an expert in this field, offers insights into the complex historical connections between Ireland and the Western Front. This discussion provides a factual and informative exploration of a lesser-known aspect of World War I history, shedding light on Ireland's role
Ep332 – Midland Railway men of the GW – Quint Watt
Historian and researcher Quintin Watt takes us on a captivating journey into the forgotten stories of the Midland Railway's servicemen from the Black Country and South Staffordshire during the Great War. Quintin shares the inspiration behind his research and delves into surprising discoveries, shedding light on the integral role railwaymen played during this historic period. We explore the specifi
Ep331 – God and the British Soldier – Prof Michael Snape
Canon Professor Michael Snape, the Michael Ramsey Professor of Anglican Studies at Durham University, talks about religion, God and the British soldier in the Great War. Drawing from a treasure trove of newly unearthed materials from military, ecclesiastical, and civilian archives, Michael paints a vivid portrait of the experiences of Britain's citizen armies and the vital role played by the vario
Ep329 – Mametz, 38th Division and the Great War – Prof Chris Williams
On this episode of the Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast Prof. Chris Williams, a historian from University College Cork, talks about his research into the 38th Division and their pivotal role in the Battle of Mametz.
Ep328 – Why the Allies won the Great War – Prof Mark Connelly
On this week’s, Dispatches Podcast we delve into the intricacies of the Great War and explore the question on everyone's mind: "Why did the Allies emerge victorious?" In this thought-provoking lecture, historian Prof. Mark Connelly takes us on a journey through the annals of history, offering insights into the strategic, political, and human factors that ultimately led to the Allies' triumph. Reco
Ep327 – The Atlas of the Irish Revolution and Cork – Dr John Borgonovo
In the latest episode of the Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast, Dr. John Borgonovo takes us on a captivating journey through the Irish Revolution with a particular focus on its impact in Cork. The discussion revolves around "The Atlas of the Irish Revolution," a landmark publication that offers a uniquely accessible perspective on this transformative period. With over 350 original maps and 700 image
Ep326 – The British West Indies Regt in the GW – Dr Dominiek Dendooven
In this episode of the Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast, Dr. Dominiek Dendooven talks about his recent book, 'The British West Indies Regiment: Race and Colour on the Western Front,' published by Pen & Sword. This military-political history intertwines a thought-provoking cultural and social theme that shapes the narrative: the intricate dynamics of race, colour, and prejudice. Despite these ch
Ep325 – County Mayo, 1912-23 – Prof Joost Augusteijn
Tune in to the latest Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast, where we engage in a compelling conversation with Professor Joost Augusteijn about his in-depth study of County Mayo, 1912-23. Delving into a period of unprecedented turmoil, this examination offers a comprehensive look at all facets of life in County Mayo during the revolutionary era. Joost draws from a diverse range of sources, including mem
Ep324 – Field Marshal the Earl of Cavan – Dr Michael Senior
Join us in the latest episode of the Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast as we delve into the life and career of Field Marshal Lord Cavan. In this enlightening conversation with Dr. Michael Senior, author of the recently published book 'Field Marshal the Earl of Cavan: Soldier and Fox Hunter,' we explore the multifaceted character of a distinguished British army commander. Cavan's legacy was a subject
Ep323 – Irish divisions at Langemark – Michael Nugent
In this episode of the Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast, Michael Nugent delves into his book 'A Bad Day, I Fear,' shedding light on a little-known chapter of World War I history. Join us as we explore the tragic Battle of Langemarck on August 16, 1917, where the 16th (Irish) Division and 36th (Ulster) Division, after their previous success at Messines, faced an unmitigated disaster. Nugent unravels
Ep322 – The 21st Division in the Great War – Dr Derek Clayton
Author and historians Dr Derek Clayton talks about his book To Do the Work of Men : An Operational History of the 21st Division in the Great War. The 21st Division was formed in September 1914 as part of Kitchener's Third Army (K3), comprising units mostly from Yorkshire, Northumberland, Durham and Lincolnshire. It was destined to spend its entire period of active service on the Western Front
Ep321 – Field Marshal Lord Birdwood – Richard Farrimond
In this podcast interview, Richard Farrimond discusses their motivation for writing a comprehensive biography of Field Marshal Lord Birdwood, highlighting their personal connection to Clifton College and Birdwood's autobiography, Khaki and Gown, as initial inspirations. Richard also explains that their academic journey, including a history Masters degree and a PhD, led them to explore Birdwood's l
Ep320 – Did the 5th Army collapse in spring 1918 – Glyn Taylor
Doctoral candidate Glyn Taylor talks about his research into the response of the 5th British Army to the German Spring Offensive in 1918. Glyn is a former Army officer who has taken up an academic career following his retirement from the Services. He graduated with a MA in ‘The History of Britain and the First World War’ at the University of Wolverhampton in 2020 and is currently researching for a
Ep319 – Battle of the Sambre, 4 November 1918 – Dr Derek Clayton
Author and historian Dr Derek Clayton talks about this book Decisive Victory: The Battle of the Sambre: 4 November 1918. This battle was a decisive British victory. The battle has, however, been largely neglected by historians: it was the last large-scale, set-piece battle fought by the British Expeditionary Force on the Western Front: the Armistice was only one week away. Seven Victoria Crosses w
Ep318 – Hedworth Lambton and the GW – Peter Welsh
Historian and writer Peter Welsh talks about Sir Hedworth Meux (Lambton) during the Great War. Meux was a distinguished Royal Navy officer whose legacy is marked by a lifetime of service and leadership. Born as Hedworth Lambton, he embarked on a remarkable career that spanned from 1870 to 1916. Notably, Meux played a pivotal role in significant historical events, including the Anglo-Egyptian War,
Ep317 – Gay soldiers, the law and the Great War – Dr Frances Hurd
Author and historian Dr Frances Hurd talks about her research into gay officers, the law and their experiences in the British Army during the Great War. She discusses what happened to British officers arrested for homosexuality, their fate and the legacy of the treatment. Frances is based in Chichester, West Sussex, and has a PhD in history.
Ep316 – AEF Communications during the Great War – Dr. Brian Hall
Academic Dr Brian Hall talks about his research into the development of communications in the American Expeditionary Force during the Great War. Brian is the Programme Leader, BA (Hons) Contemporary Military & International History, University of Salford.
Ep315 – Smuts, Botha and the Great War – Dr Anthony Garcia
Dr Tony Garcia talks about the book he jointly authored with Ian van der Waag on the Great War roles of roles played by the South African prime minister, General Louis Botha, and his deputy, General Jan Smuts during the Great War. These were very different men and they appealed to different audiences. Botha’s nuance and emotional intelligence complemented Smuts’s intellectualism. Thrown into
Ep314 – The German Army in 1917 – Dr Tony Cowan
Author and academic Dr Tony Cowan talks about his recent book, Holding Out. This book examines German operational command during a critical phase of the First World War from November 1916 to the eve of the third battle of Ypres. The situation faced by the German army on the Western Front in 1917 was very different from the one anticipated in pre-war doctrine and Holding Out examines how German com
