World War II Infantry Tactics

Squad and Platoon

World War II Infantry Tactics cover

Description

Osprey's study of infantry tactics of the squads and platoons of World War II (1939-1945). 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 25 2004
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 64
ISBN 9781841766621
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations 55 b/w; 8 col
Dimensions 10 x 7 inches
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

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