Richard O'Neill (1937–)

Another well-illustrated addition to the litany of works already out there about life on the high seas in the Napoleonic Era. Unlike many other books, editor Richard O'Neill has put together a volume that focuses on the British Royal Navy and is clearly meant more for those who are new to Patrick O'Brian's Aubrey/Maturin (Master & Commander) series.

Interestingly, this is not a book about the geopolitical history of the era nor of the famous naval battles since only three actions are covered (1 fleet engagement, 1 amphibious landing, & 1 frigate engagement). Moreso, the majority of the text details the life of the sailors, the organization, and the culture of the Royal Navy. Throughout the book, there are references to the Aubrey/Maturin series and how the character Jack Aubrey fits into this world.

While perhaps a little derivative of other works out there, this is a fairly good read for those needing a more accessible introduction to the Royal Navy in the Napoleonic Era. My only gripe about the text is that it ends somewhat abruptly. The final chapter describes crimes and punishments in the Royal Navy, including pirates and privateers, but then the narrative goes no further and there's no conclusion to wrap things up.… (mais)

What a neat picture book of all sorts of things militaria. Interesting to look at items that can sometimes be seen in WWII movies made after the war. Tells if the movie had accurate depictions (or not) of events, uniforms, weapons, etc.

I remember in Kelly's Heroes there was scene with American tanks coming out of railroad tunnel at a rail station. The reacting German railway soldiers had odd looking medallions around their necks. The book actually reviews that these medallions were real issues for the rail security guard forces. Decent realism. Someone did their homework.

While in Germany in the 1980's, I bought a duplicate Luftwaffe dagger (supposedly made in Spain from the original German die casts). I found the original dagger in the book so it was interesting to compare mine to the book's picture.

Neat armchair book to browse through.… (mais)