MILITARY FIELD POCKET BOOK 1811 (translation of General Scharnhorst)

This translation of the ‘Military Field Pocket Book’ containing the tactical thinking and military methods of the great General von Scharnhorst, architect of Prussia’s successful resistance to Napoelon’s s domination, was translated in 1811 when Britain’s war with Napoleon was at its height, and when the Emperor, save in Spain, still seemed invincible. Young officers, although now being trained on a structured basis, often still lacked personal experience of operations against the enemy. Scharnhorst’s work was intended to give such young men (who would be commanding in the field by the time of the Battle of Waterloo) some expert insight and guidance into their profession.
The first part of the book concerns the instructions for infantry and cavalry officers . The manual is full of useful advice on such things as surprising sentries, finding the enemy and capturing couriers. Another important section describes the practical aspects of field fortifications, and how they should be built. There are examples of obstacles that can be put in the enemy’s path, as well as wise counsel on how to overcome the same when attacking. This is a military masterclass from a genius at warfare.