A lifesaving gas mask. A ration book, essential for the supply of food. A shelter stove that kept a family warm whilst they huddled in their Anderson shelter. A leaflet dropped by the Luftwaffe that was designed to intimidate Britain’s populace during the threat of invasion. A civilian identity card over-stamped with the swastika eagle from the occupied Channel Islands. A rare, previously unpublished, snapshot of legendary American bandleader Glenn Miller playing at a UK air base. A twisted remnant of German V2 rocket that went to space and back before exploding over London, the result of equally twisted military science. Colourful flag bunting that saw the VE celebrations in 1945: All disparate objects that together tell the moving and important story of Britain’s Home Front during the Second World War. The ordinary objects featured in this book, whether those produced in their millions to the far from ordinary or unique, all portray and exude the highs and lows of the British people during six years of war. From the deprivations of rationing and the bombing of the Blitz, to the cheery songs, elegant fashions and ‘Dig For Victory’ spirit, are all captured in colour. The phrase ‘If only this could talk …’ is often heard: in this book, the objects almost can. All the objects have a general contextual background history and any specific known associated story is also included, all in a clear form, with cross-references to related subjects. Packed with colour and archive photos, facts, figures, dates and statistics for easy reference, _The Home Front 1939–1945 in 100 Objects_ is the perfect book for students, historians, collectors and general readers, enabling a clear understanding of one of Britain’s most important historical periods.

The Home Front 1939–1945 in 100 Objects

History

Ruddy, Austin J

Europe

Frontline Books

During World War Two, up to 50,000 men and women served in the Leicestershire and Rutland Home Guard, ready to defend their families, friends and fellow citizens, yet today their stories and sacrifices are practically forgotten - until now. Using a wide variety of sources, the author reveals the true story behind the Home Guard. Apart from their well-know infantry role, Home Guards manned anti-aircraft guns and rockets, formed bomb disposal squads and helped train Special Forces units. Women Auxiliaries and boy cadets also served in the force. Over 50 of the last Home Guards tell first hand of the many events, both serious and humorous, that occurred while they defended the Home Front. Also published for the first time are: details of secret defence schemes, showing how the two counties would have been defended to the last round; how three secret local resistance organisations would have carried on fighting after Nazi occupation. "To the Last Round" is a moving and candid tribute to the Leicestershire and Rutland Home Guard and will provide a welcome addition to the subject at both local and national level.

To the Last Round: The Leicestershire and Rutland Home Guard 1940–1945

DB Publishing

British Anti Invasion Defences 1940 1945: A Pocket Reference Guide

Reference

Historic Military Press

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