Most of the Work, Most of the Blame, None of the Credit. Platoon commanders in WW1
Great War subalterns were mocked and satirised, then and now, as enthusiastic and patriotic but naïve and ignorant public school boys. They led gallantly from the front, looking after their men, but with few tactical responsibilities and little autonomy.
Later, the platoon became the key tactical attack unit, a flexible group of specialists with real discretion on the battlefield. So how did the Young Gentlemen of 1914/15 change into the pivotal battlefield managers of 1917/18?
This is one of three lectures given at the WFA's AGM and Conference in 2024
Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:
The WFA regularly makes available webinars which can be viewed 'live' from home. These feature expert speakers talking about a particular aspect of the Great War.
Featured on The WFA's YouTube channel are modern day re-interpretations of the inter-war magazine 'I Was There!' which recount the memories of soldiers who 'were there'.
Explore over 8 million digitized pension records, Medal Index Cards and Ministry of Pension Documents, preserved by the WFA.
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