History of the Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert’s) 1914-1919

“Will be an inspiration to all ranks of the Regiment present and to come” – King George VI

In this fascinating Regimental history, Wyrall makes use of the diaries and personal memoirs of those who fought in the Somerset Light Infantry.

He also notes that his work was read by many other Generals before final publication, making this a truly collective recollection of the Great War.

Concentrating on the strategic planning of the Infantry he reveals the daily grind of the war and the long march to freedom, documenting time spent at Le Cateau and the unforgiving, relentless realities of trench warfare.

The Battles of Marne, Aisne, Armentières, Ypres, Loos and The Somme are recorded in unprecedented detail as well as the fierce and critical fighting of the Hindenburg Line.

Wyrall goes on to describe how the men, exhausted, continued on to Palestine and Jerusalem, culminating in the final advance at Flanders and new, uncertain military horizons in India.

Praise for the author:

‘It displays the true regimental spirit’ – Sir Ivor Maxse

‘Captain Everard Wyrall is an indefatigable military historian.’ – The Spectator

‘It is a record of patience and determination, of self-sacrifice and bravery.’ – Field Marshal George Francis Milne

Everard Wyrall (1878-1933) served in the Boer War, the First World War, and the Third African War. He was an author, journalist, and historian who contributed significantly to the literary commemoration of First World War, compiling extensive official military histories, including, among others, those dedicated to the Somerset Light Infantry, Middlesex Regiment, King’s Liverpool Regiment, and West Yorkshire Regiment.