The First Day On The Somme Revised Edition

On July 1st, 1916, a seemingly ordinary day turned into an extraordinary milestone in history. The First Day on the Somme, one of the bloodiest battles of World War I, forever changed the course of warfare. Today, we revisit this monumental event through the revised edition that uncovers heroic accounts and untold stories from those who witnessed it firsthand.

The battle on the Somme was meticulously planned, strategized, and awaited with bated breath. Yet, even the most detailed plans couldn't prepare the soldiers for the horrors that awaited them. The initial optimism soon disintegrated into a colossal tragedy that claimed the lives of thousands. This revised edition aims to shed light on the events of the day, giving a voice to the brave soldiers who fought valiantly.

The Stories Untold

Within the pages of this revised edition lies a treasure trove of untold stories, each providing a unique perspective of that fateful day. From the young recruits who had never seen combat to seasoned soldiers who had traversed numerous battlefields, their stories offer glimpses into the human experience on the front lines.

The First Day on the Somme: Revised Edition

by Martin Middlebrook(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22369 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	521 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

One such account is that of Private James Thompson, a 20-year-old Scottish soldier. His diary entries, carefully preserved for over a century, reveal the fears, hopes, and sacrifices of a young man who had left the comfort of his home to fight for his country. Thompson's narrative takes us from the anticipation before the battle to the harrowing moments in the trenches, painting a vivid picture of the realities faced by those on the front lines.

Another remarkable story is that of Sergeant Emily Turner, a nurse who selflessly tended to the wounded soldiers. With unparalleled dedication and bravery, Turner risked her own life to save countless others. Her detailed recollections provide an intimate glimpse into the chaos and heartbreak she witnessed, offering a unique perspective on the battle from a medical standpoint.

The Heroic Accounts

A battle of such magnitude inevitably revealed acts of heroism and unparalleled courage. The revised edition of The First Day on the Somme celebrates these acts by showcasing the heroic accounts of the soldiers who went above and beyond the call of duty.

Lieutenant Colonel Henry Johnson's testimony stands out among the heroic accounts. Despite being seriously injured, Johnson refused to retreat and instead led his troops forward, inspiring them with his unwavering determination. His bravery in the face of unimaginable adversity serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

The courageous actions of Corporal Maria Santos are also highlighted within these pages. Santos, a Spanish immigrant serving in the British army, disregarded her own safety to save her comrades from a barrage of enemy fire. Her selflessness and bravery earned her the prestigious Military Medal, becoming an inspiration to soldiers around the world.

Revisiting History

The revised edition of The First Day on the Somme offers a unique opportunity to revisit history through a new lens. With additional accounts, insights, and historical context, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the events that transpired on that fateful day.

Furthermore, the revised edition includes detailed maps, photographs, and firsthand sketches that enhance the reader's visual experience. These visual aids not only provide a clearer understanding of the battlefield but also serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought.

The First Day on the Somme Revised Edition invites readers to embark on an emotional journey through the annals of history. By unraveling the heroic accounts and untold stories, this book exposes the realities of war while paying tribute to the individuals who experienced its horrors.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a warfare aficionado, or simply curious about the human condition, this revised edition is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated, educated, and moved by the accounts of those who witnessed The First Day on the Somme.

The First Day on the Somme: Revised Edition

by Martin Middlebrook(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22369 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	521 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A history of the British Army’s experience at the Battle of the Somme in France during World War I.

After an immense but useless bombardment, at 7:30 AM on July 1, 1916, the British Army went over the top and attacked the German trenches. It was the first day of the battle of the Somme, and on that day, the British suffered nearly 60,000 casualties, two for every yard of their front. With more than fifty times the daily losses at El Alamein and fifteen times the British casualties on D-day, July 1, 1916, was the blackest day in the history of the British Army. But, more than that, as Lloyd George recognized, it was a watershed in the history of the First World War. The Army that attacked on that day was the volunteer Army that had answered Kitchener’s call. It had gone into action confident of a decisive victory. But by sunset on the first day on the Somme, no one could any longer think of a war that might be won.

Martin Middlebrook’s research has covered not just official and regimental histories and tours of the battlefields, but interviews with hundreds of survivors, both British and German. As to the action itself, he conveys the overall strategic view and the terrifying reality that it was for front-line soldiers.

Revised in 2016 from the 1971 original edition.

Praise for The First Day on the Somme

“The remembrance of those lives, difficult as it may be, will start in earnest now, with this wonderful book. It’s almost like being there yourself... enough said.”—Books Monthly (UK)