Tommy Crawford’s story may not be unique, but he tells it in such a powerful manner that he brings the events he describes vividly to life. He recalls not only the grim realities of war but also the pride and comradeship he found in the Army, which made him reluctant to re-join Civvy Street.

The poems that appear at various points are reminiscent of Kipling in the way they express the sentiments of the ordinary soldier.

This book is as much a piece of social history as it is an autobiography, revealing the attitudes of servicemen and the civilian population to the Great War and also serving as a poignant memorial to the many men of the Durham Light Infantry who did not return.

Royalties from the sale of this book will be donated to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission

Cover artwork by Neil Simone