the mind of battle

In 1978, my friend, Jack Hoschouer, suggested I read Sir John Keegan’s book, “The Face of Battle” (1976). Jack gave me his copy and I remember reading it in one compelling sitting. Three battles: Agincourt, Waterloo and the Somme. Keegan’s new book is a history of the Civil War with a great appreciation of the geography. Critics have always suggested he knows little of politics, but in this way, Keegan has a great deal in common with most soldiers, who while appreciative of Clauswitz’s thoughts, have found good use for “On War” as a doorstop or cutting board for fish.