A TASTE OF SUCCESS: The First Battle Of The Scarpe. The Opening Phase Of The Battle Of Arras, 9-14 April 1917

2-235760

Softcover version.

Covers the Battle of Arras, sometimes called 'The Forgotten Battle,' that was wedged between the Battles of the Somme and Passchendaele. Shows us how infantry tactics had improved and how the use of artillery had become a fine art in supporting the men as they attacked; how a preliminary artillery bombardment left the German defenders shattered, but also created the conditions that would hinder any kind of rapid movement once the first lines were broken. The key role of the Royal Flying Corps, how tanks were used and the vital role of support units such as the Royal Engineers are all examined in detail. Includes 16 pages color illustrations and maps, 35 b/w photos, 43 b/w maps, and three tables.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the initial success - based upon excellent planning and training - was followed by a chaotic confusion of command and control. It soon becomes evident that the development of the British Army in April 1917 had reached a point where in the Battle of Arras, they could stage a successful assault - applying perfect planning, but lacking the forethought to plan and carry out the follow-up phases.