Osprey Elite 105 : World War II Infantry Tactics (1) : Squad and Platoon

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 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. Text by Stephen Bull with illustrations by Mike Chappell and Brian Delf.

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