Comparing the BEF Retreats of 1914 and 1940

Speaker: Prof Gary Sheffield
Combined Mons And Dunkirk

The talk on the comparison of the BEF retreats of 1914 and 1940 is an examination of the two retreats which took place almost 26 years apart.

What were the primary reasons behind the British retreat from Mons in 1914 and then again to Dunkirk in 1940?

How were they similar, and how were they different from each other?

Prof. Gary Sheffield
Prof. Gary Sheffield

Prof. Gary Sheffield, the recently retired President of the WFA, is a well-known military historian particularly in the history of the two World Wars. He is an accomplished military author and public speaker.

This talk originates from his forthcoming book entitled Civilian Armies: British and Dominions Soldiers' Experience in the two World Wars.

All are welcome to attend this event, and everyone is guaranteed a warm welcome with the doors opening at 6.30pm ready for a 7pm start.

Event organiser: Staffs (North) & Cheshire (South) branch
14 September 2026 19:00 to 14 September 2026 21:00
Congregational Church, King Street, Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire ST5 1EJ
Branch contacts
Geoff White
(Branch Chairman)
Email Geoff White

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