This particular volume from Osprey is part of its 'Fortress' collection and covers probably the most basic type of fortification that there is; that which is dug from the ground for use in battle during war.

There isn't a soldier around that hasn't learned basic field fortifications, even if it is nothing more than digging a foxhole. Of course, in defensive as well as offensive positions in fluid battles, the fortifications are generally a bit more complex, especially when you are building them for more than personal protection.

Building fortifications for spotting posts or for artillery requires a bit more work and planning than simply digging a hole in the dirt. One has to fortify it, generally with local materials such as wood from trees or rocks. Some can be quite elaborate, providing living quarters for troops as well as escape routes in case the position is overrun.

What the Germans wanted to get away from was the fixed and extremely complex set of trenches that basically turned WWI into an unmoving area of battle. They developed interlocking defensive positions that could be moved into in case they were pushed back from more forward ones. The idea was not to stand and slug it out over a section of ground, but to be able to move rather quickly, set up positions and hold off a counter attack. When campaigning in the desert or the steppes, positions had to be even more streamlined.

Not having been a soldier, but a sailor, I knew basically zilch about the subject when this book arrived on my doorstep. While not exactly steeped in the subject, this book is a fascinating look into an area of warfare I knew nothing about. The author manages to tell the story in such a fashion that one isn't bogged down in jargon as can so easily happen. It is a great read and one that I think you'll enjoy as well.

Available in bookstores everywhere, through Classic Motorbooks at (800) 826-6600 or at www.motorbooks.com. For more on the complete line of Osprey books, visit www.ospreypublishing.com or contact them at Osprey Direct, PO Box 140, Wellingborough, Northants, NN8 2FA, UK

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