Books at On Military Matters
Updated as of 11/14/2024
ABBREVIATIONS: dj-dust jacket, biblio-bibliography, b/w-black and white, illust-illustrations, b/c-book club addition.rct - recent arrival or pending publication, spc - OMM Special Price
Weekly eFlyer: 9/26/2024 | |
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1-WAACF006
LANDSKNECHT OGRES 28mm
This box set lets you build either 9 Landsknecht Ogres or 9 of The Vain for Death Fields. Weapons include halberds, spears, cannon, knives, clubs, great swords, pistols, auto-guns, shotguns, and grenades. A huge variety of heads, floppy hats, feathers, and more will allow for customization. Models require assembly and painting. Bases are not included. 1 vol, 9 pgs
2024 US, WARGAMES ATLANTIC LLC | Add to Cart |
1-968049
Konstam, Angus 049 SUMATRA 1944-45: The British Pacific Fleet's oil campaign in the Dutch East Indies
Explores how the first target of British naval power in the Pacific would be the strategically vital oil fields in Japanese-occupied Sumatra, part of the Dutch East Indies. Between April 1944 and January 1945, the task force struck oil fields and production centres, Japanese airfields, naval facilities and troop concentrations. Initially working alongside US Navy carriers, and learning their ruthlessly effective fast carrier doctrine, the British would end the Sumatra campaign with a powerful fleet of ten carriers of their own. Contains artwork, maps, 3D diagrams and archive photos. 1 vol, 96 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-972079
Greentree, David 079 EIGHTH ARMY SOLDIER VS ITALIAN SOLDIER: El Alamein 1942
By July 1942, the Allied troops fighting in North Africa, the multinational Eighth Army, had withdrawn to the El Alamein line, the last position stopping their German and Italian opponents from reaching the Suez Canal. Featuring full-colour artwork, carefully chosen archive photographs and incisive analysis, this book casts light on the Commonwealth and Italian infantrymen who participated in the seesaw battle for control of the North African coastline as it entered its decisive phase, played out over two bloody engagements during July-October 1942. Although Allied and Axis commanders saw armour as the decisive weapon in the Desert War, the infantry fielded by both sides would be key to the outcomes of the two El Alamein battles. 1 vol, 80 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-995333
Lardas, Mark 333 WARSHIPS IN THE KOMANDORSKI ISLANDS 1943: The USN and IJN fight the last pure surface battle
Exploring the warships, the battle, and why it was won, explains that due to an intelligence failure, the Japanese escort was twice the size expected, with the US outnumbered 2:1 in heavy and light cruisers. Although both sides had the same number of destroyers (four each) the Japanese destroyers were newer and more powerful than their US counterparts. Illustrated with archive photos, profiles of all the major warships involved, and action scenes illustrating key moments in the battle, this book explains how the US victory was achieved, and particularly highlights the importance of superior damage control.1 vol, 48 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-996406
Konstam, Angus 406 BORNEO 1945: The Last Major Allied Campaign in the South-West Pacific
Explores the planning and execution of Operation Oboe, which was spearheaded by Australian troops but involved naval and special forces from the United States, Britain, and the Netherlands. Detailed maps explore the six separate stages, each of which involved amphibious landings. Battlescene artworks and photographs bring to life notable events such as the capture of Tarakan, Labuan, Brunei, and Sarawak. Also covered are the Allied special forces guerrilla campaigns and Australian 7th Infantry Division's landing at Balikapan, which proved to be the turning point of this campaign.1 vol, 96 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-996405
Noppen, Ryan 405 MERS EL-KEBIR 1940: Operation Catapult
Analyses the Royal Navy Operation Catapult at Mers el-Kebir, the follow-up Operation Lever, and the French retaliatory actions in the subsequent days. Examines the rapid deterioration of Anglo-French relations and how the two former allies quickly fell into armed conflict. Fully illustrated with detailed maps, photographs, and artwork that bring to life the British and French forces involved, it presents an engaging treatment of an often-forgotten episode early in World War II.1 vol, 96 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-997257
Jowett, Philip and Martin Windrow 257 THE RIF WAR 1921-26: Morocco's Berber Uprising
Analyzes how Abd el Krim, a Berber leader in the Rif highlands of Morocco, marshaled a pan-tribal uprising that killed some 13,000 Spanish troops, which led to a Franco-Spanish response. Takes a close look at the most deadly colonial conflict of the interwar period. Rare photographs and newly commissioned artwork plates complement detailed examinations of the weapons, equipment, and uniforms of all sides, enhancing the story of the challenge posed to two European armies by a tribal leader who would inspire North African nationalists for years to come.1 vol, 64 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-999559
Field, Ron 559 THE UNION ARMY 1861-65 (3): Midwestern and Western States
Final book in three-part study. Describes and illustrates the uniforms, insignia, and personal equipment of the soldiers fielded by the Midwestern and Western states for the Union cause. While the majority of these troops were infantry, substantial numbers of artillery, cavalry, and other specialists such as riflemen and engineers were also sent to fight the Confederate armies. Eight plates of original artwork showing officers and enlisted men of the Union Army are complemented by rare photographs depicting soldiers and items of uniform from some of the most comprehensive collections in the United States.1 vol, 48 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-999558
Gaillard, Philippe 558 JOAN OF ARC'S ARMY: French armies under Charles VII, 1415-53
Examines the events and individuals that brought about a pivotal shift in the trajectory of medieval France. Combining detailed research with period illustrations, artifact photography, and newly commissioned artwork plates, the author brings to life the story of Saint Jeanne d'Arc, the army she revitalized, and the structural and tactical changes that carried King Charles VII and France to victory at Formigny and Castillon in the 1450s.1 vol, 48 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-246390
Thion, Stephane THE BATTLE OF FRIBOURG 1644: Enghien and Turenne at War
Details the Battle of Fribourg during the Thirty Years' War, which saw Enghien and Turenne at war with Bavarian general Franz von Mercy. Covers what might be the most difficult battle that the two men would face over their careers: their carefully prepared plans were thwarted by the shrewdness of their opponent and some unfortunate initiatives on the part of their subordinates. Contains contemporary accounts to immerse the reader in the heart of the two battles that enabled the French, despite being held at bay, to keep the Bavarians away from the right bank of the Rhine. The context of the campaign, the character of the three protagonists, the phases of the various battles, the armies involved and the lessons learned are all analyzed in detail in this study. Contains 45 black and white illustrations, 24 color illustrations and figures, and 7 color maps.1 vol, 136 pgs
2024 UK, PEN & SWORD | Add to Cart |
1-936253
Mc Intyre, James JOURNAL OF THE SEVEN YEARS WAR ASSOCIATION: Issue 25.3
Articles Include: | Add to Cart |
1-242302
Translated by Philips, Peter THE RUSSIAN PATRIOTIC WAR OF 1812 VOLUME 2: The Russian Official History
The Russian Patriotic War of 1812 is the only publicly available translation into English of Bogdanovich's official history of the Russian forces' involvement in the fight against Napoleon and his allies in Russia in 1812. This translation also includes extracts from Ivan Liprandi's critique of Bogdanovich's work. Covers Kutuzov's appointment as Field Marshal, details of the opolchenie (militia) and donations made in 1812, the meeting in Abo between Tsar Alexander I and the Crown Prince of Sweden (Jean- Baptiste Jules Bernadotte), and the situation in enemy occupied territory. Highly detailed descriptions of operations are included, from before the Battle of Borodino to the camp at Tarutino, as well as operations on the flanks by Wittgenstein and Admiral Chichagov. The composition of the forces are shown as clearly as possible, as are force numbers, casualties on each side, and so on. The maps attached to this work were drafted in such a way that they might serve to explain entire phases of the war. The battle plans show the locations of dominant terrain according to detailed state surveys, while villages, forests and roads have been copied from previously published plans. Contains 9 black and white maps and numerous tables.1 vol, 424 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
1-246330
Barringer, Sheridan ROBERT E LEE'S RELUCTANT WARRIOR: The Life of Cavalry Commander and Railroad Businessman, Brigadier General Williams Carter Wickham
Williams Carter Wickham fought bravely for the south as a Confederate cavalry officer, finishing the war as a brigadier general. He also steadfastly opposed secession, believing that it was illegal. From a prominent Virginia family, he was a natural leader in the field and, late in the war, Confederate Congress. He rose from the rank of captain and after the war broke with his fellow generals by joining the Republican Party, urging compliance with Reconstruction. He became an organizer of railroad improvements and expansion, becoming leader of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad and served in the Virginia State Senate.1 vol, 272 pgs
2024 US, FOX RUN PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-246350
Barry, Quintin BLACK WEEK: The British Army and Defeat in the Anglo-Boer War 1899-1900
Examines the British Army's defeats at Stormberg, Magersfontein, and Colenso and the effect those losses had on leadership, morale, and reinforcements. Also looks at the Battle of Spion Kop, which further exposed the failures in leadership the government, and how the British military establishment faced the task of recovering from these traumatic defeats, as well as discovering the reasons for them. Many painful lessons had still to be learned about combat with an enemy armed with the most modern weapons before the Boers were finally defeated. These lessons would be learned not only on the field of battle, but also at the tables of the numerous committees established to determine the reason why things had gone so wrong. Contains 36 black and white photos and illustrations, as well as 6 color maps.1 vol, 228 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
1-246380
Batten, Simon FUTILE EXERCISE?: The British Army's Preparations for War 1902-1914
Considers whether the claim that the British Army was the best trained, best organized, and best equipped army which ever went forth to war is justified. Conventional wisdom has it that the British Army in 1914 was utterly unprepared for the development of trench warfare from October 1914 onwards, and that it took many lives and a costly 'learning curve' for the British to come to terms with the new conditions of warfare. Raises issues about how armies learn from their experiences and how they prepare for war without employing bullets and shells. Contains 50 black and white photos and illustrations, as well as 4 black and white maps.1 vol, 236 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
1-246360
Taylor, Colin SOLDIERS AND GENTLEMEN: A History of the University and Public Schools Brigade of the Royal Fusiliers 1914-1918
Recounts the Great War history of four unusual infantry units: 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st (Service) Battalions of the Royal Fusiliers. Recruited from former university students and public school boys who chose to serve as 'gentleman rankers' rather than officers, these units were dismissed as 'Chocolate Soldiers' or 'rotten men'. Re-examines their reputation and effectiveness by examination of a considerable number of primary and secondary sources including over thirty first-hand accounts, both published and unpublished. The latter provide a unique insight into the lives and deaths of those who served, training particulars, active service routine, and combat experience. The motivations and perspectives of the so-called 'gentleman rankers' and their transition into commissioned officers are also thoroughly explored. Contains 100 black and white photos and drawings, 12 black and white maps, and numerous tables.1 vol, 538 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
2-236380
Afiero, Massimiliano SNOW, ICE, AND SACRIFICE: The Italian Army in Russia, 1941-1943
Addresses the genesis, organization, and operations of Italian forces that fought alongside the Germans and other contingents allied with them in Russia beginning with Operation Barbarossa in June 1941 until the defeat of the Italian forces there in early 1943. Features a detailed text accompanied by a large number of photographs (many previously unpublished) as well as maps and 16 color plates of armored fighting vehicles and uniforms. Contains 170 black and white photos, 16 color plates, and 8 black and white maps.1 vol, 272 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
1-246340
James, Derek PLUMES OF SMOKE: The Destruction of Montecassino 1944
Examines the controversial destruction of the Abbey of Montecassino, as well as about what wars are fought for and about those who make the fundamental decisions that affect us all. Questions why the abbey was destroyed, as it was a historic edifice of inestimable cultural value. Occurring more than eighty years ago, it still resonates clearly through the decades. Military necessity remains the principal excuse for unnecessary devastation. When politicians and generals are faced with difficult decisions, when victory becomes more important than the ideals they fought for in the first place, then legal and moral boundaries are often forgotten in the fog of war. Contains 102 black and white photos and 5 black and white maps.1 vol, 506 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
1-246290
Leick, David USS PRINCETON: The Life and Loss of 'Sweet P'
Uses first-hand accounts from archives such as the Naval History and Heritage Command to examine the campaigns, aircraft, tactics, command decisions, and life aboard ship during the American Pacific campaign against Japan from early 1943 until Princeton's tragic demise in October 1944. The book focusses closely on the crew and airmen of the Princeton, as well as describing in detail the toll that prolonged combat operations took on the frontline sailor. | Add to Cart |
1-246270
Wheelan, Joseph THE FARTHEST VALLEY: Escaping the Chinese Trap at the Chosin Reservoir
Details the Chosin Valley attack on US Marines with first-hand accounts by the author, who is also Chosin veteran. Also uses Chinese military documents to give a unique perspective on Chinese strategic and tactical failings which allowed the Marines to escape. Without the Marines, the entire United Nations core strength was at risk of collapse which would have changed the outcome of the Korean War. Contains 8-page plate section with black-and-white photographs. | Add to Cart |
1-234946
Cooper, Tom WAR IN UKRAINE VOLUME 6: The Air War February-March 2022
Undertakes a detailed examination of the history, technology, and doctrine of the Soviet and Russian air forces from the late Cold War up to the eve of the 2022 invasion, along with the opposing air force and ground-based anti-air defenses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (Zbroiynyhsyl Ukrayini, ZSU). Building upon the general account of the opening moves of this conflict contained in Volume 2 of War in Ukraine, this volume presents a detailed account of the successes and failures of each side in their use of air power and how this impacted upon the ground campaign. Illustrated throughout with full color photographs, specially commissioned maps, and color artworks showing the aircraft of this ongoing conflict. Contains 114 color photos, 33 color profiles, 5 color maps, and 12 tables.1 vol, 100 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
1-246370
Lauker, Max and Antonio Garcia NUMBER 788: My experiences in Swedish Special Operations - preparing for NATO and the War on Terror
Details the journey of a reluctant soldier and ranger, excelling in reconnaissance, intelligence, and covert operations, post-Cold War training to the War on Terror. The broader context of this story is that the end of the Cold War and subsequent peacekeeping missions caught the Swedish military flatfooted when the War on Terror came around. The need for special operations forces was in high demand, but for the most part, Sweden lacked this niche capability. While still in its conceptual form, the International Ranger Platoon, an elite force that became a Special Purpose Unit within the Ranger Battalion, was used to fill the gap. The reward was to be part of something new - the Special Purpose Units. Contains 10 photos and 5 maps.1 vol, 354 pgs
2024 UK, HELION AND COMPANY | Add to Cart |
1-246280
Miller, Sergio PRIDE AND FALL: The British Army in Afghanistan, 2001-2014
Analyzes the British involvement in aiding the United States in Afghanistan, and attempts to answer the many questions surrounding the conflict. The British commitment to what became known as Operation Herrick saw a battlegroup from the Parachute Regiment deploy to Helmand Province in January 2006 with the hope they could 'leave in three years and without firing one shot.' The reality was very different. From 2006 through to 2014, a succession of British brigade-sized task forces rotated through Helmand on six-month tours. When they finally withdrew in 2014, British forces had lost 456 killed and over 2,000 wounded, and the Taliban were resurgent. Contains 8 pages of color plates. | Add to Cart |
1-246320
Malthouse, Scott THE TERROR BENEATH: An Investigative Roleplaying Game of Weird Folk Horror
An investigative roleplaying game of horrors both ancient and modern, inspired by the works of Arthur Machen and powered by the GUMSHOE system. With less emphasis on finding clues and more on interpreting them correctly, an investigation never stalls due to a critical clue being missed, but gives the heroes all the information they need to keep moving inexorably towards the horrors at the heart of the plot. Takes place in Britain at the dawn of the 20th century. In the depths of the countryside, cults celebrate ancient rites in hidden clearings and caverns, beasts of legend emerge from their lairs to prey upon the unwary, and powerful beings of folklore and myth stir once more. In the urban sprawl of London and other cities, secret societies struggle for power and dominance, rogue alchemists pursue occult ambitions, and scientists fuse modern technology with ancient mysticism to create new horrors.1 vol, 128 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |
1-246300
Thompson, David WAR STORY: Occupied France
War Story: Occupied France is a cooperative narrative game for one to six players. Your team of covert operatives is all that stands between the infamous German officer Heidenreich and the systematic destruction of French Resistance forces in Morette. Through three replayable story missions, you must exploit the specialties of your chosen agents to uncover information, enlist allies, and obtain weaponry. Engage occupying forces on tactical encounter maps, where careless positioning could cost your agents' lives. Remember, no plan survives contact with the enemy. And time is running out. | Add to Cart |
1-246310
Whelan, Michael FREAKZ!: Mutant Murder Machines
FREAKZ! pits savage mutant gangs against each other as they pillage the ruins of a devastated world in pursuit of hallowed Artefactz. Full of streamlined gameplay that gets you playing fast. Generate an entire squad in seconds by drawing from a standard deck of playing cards. Move your fighters without measuring. Resolve attacks in a single matched dice roll. Gain leathery wings and fly above the battlefield, grow giant plates of bone armor, or develop chameleon-like skin and fade from sight. But beware the consequences of this power! Collect too many Artefactz, and you may lose control.1 vol, 128 pgs
2024 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING | Add to Cart |