I just learned that the noted military historian, John Keegan has passed away at the age of 78.  I first read, The Face of Battle, when I was in college. I had just switched my major from accounting to history. After reading it I was more inspired in my new area of study and went on to graduate school to study miltary history. I wanted to write military history just like him. The one-two punch of Keegan and Christopher Duffy showed me that popular history books didn't have to be dry or superficial. It was more than tanks and planes or facts and dates. It was putting together the hows and whys in a manner which was accessible and enjoyable to a large audience which mattered.

While I may lack the writing skills of Sir Keegan but I will forever be indebted to him for the joy his printed words brought to my life.

Rest in Peace:

lived respected and died regretted

I bought his 'Six Armies in Normandy this year having not read it for some 20 years or so. I had forgotten what a great author he was. He also refused to do television history programmes after one go as he objected to the way they were edited to reflect a particular point of view. He will be sadly missed.

He was one of a small band of historians who could make his subject both lucid and readable. RIP.

Very sad news

"Face of Battle" was a fascinating dissection of the sharp end of war for Agincourt, Waterloo & Somme. It was a set book on my War Studies degree all thirty odd years ago.

How many wonderfull books He wrote. Rest in Peace.

Quote from: Shecky on 02 August 2012, 11:49:30 PM
.....I will forever be indebted to him for the joy his printed words brought to my life.

I totaly agree with Mr Shecky and share same feelings.

Quote from: Bernie on 04 August 2012, 07:31:27 PM
Very sad news

"Face of Battle" was a fascinating dissection of the sharp end of war for Agincourt, Waterloo & Somme. It was a set book on my War Studies degree all thirty odd years ago.

Mmm, that book was a useful reminder that real war isn't just chess.

RIP