Monty and the Canadian Army

General Bernard Law Montgomery, known as Monty, had a lasting influence on the Canadian Army, making it one of the best-trained armies in World War II. John A. English's book Monty and the Canadian Army explores how Monty's operational methods continued to shape the Canadian Army even after his death in 1946. The book aims to correct negative perceptions of Monty and his influence on Canadian soldiers and discusses the anomaly of how he managed to win over other North American troops.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 372 pages
\n Publication date: 08 October 2021
\n Publisher: University of Toronto Press
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General Bernard Law Montgomery, affectionately known as Monty, exerted a profound and lasting influence on the Canadian Army during World War II. In 1942, he assumed responsibility for the exercise and training of Canadian formations in England, and by the war's end, Canada's field army had emerged as one of the most proficient in the practical application of combined arms. In his book, Monty and the Canadian Army, John A. English delves into the enduring operational influence of Montgomery on the Canadian Army. For several decades, the Canadian Army maintained a high level of professionalism largely due to the leadership of Monty men, who were deeply steeped in the Montgomery method. However, this era came to an end with the integration and unification of Canada's armed forces in 1964.

It is noteworthy that the embrace of Montgomery by Canadian soldiers stands in stark contrast to the largely negative perceptions held by Americans. Monty and the Canadian Army seeks to rectify these misconceptions, which are often superficial and inaccurate, and addresses the anomaly of how this gifted general, one of the greatest field commanders of World War II, managed to win over other North American troops.

Montgomery's influence on the Canadian Army extended beyond his operational strategies and tactics. His leadership style, characterized by charisma, determination, and a deep understanding of the human element in warfare, resonated with Canadian soldiers. He fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the troops, which helped to strengthen their morale and cohesion.

Furthermore, Montgomery's emphasis on training and preparation paid dividends in the field. His meticulous planning and attention to detail enabled Canadian formations to execute complex operations with precision and effectiveness. His belief in the importance of logistics and supply lines also contributed to the Canadian Army's ability to sustain operations in difficult terrain and weather conditions.

Monty and the Canadian Army is a valuable contribution to the understanding of World War II and the Canadian military history. It sheds light on the enduring legacy of Montgomery's leadership and the impact he had on the development of the Canadian Army as a professional and capable force. By examining the ways in which Montgomery's methods and principles were adapted to the Canadian context, the book provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by military organizations in different parts of the world.

In conclusion, General Bernard Law Montgomery's influence on the Canadian Army was profound and lasting. His leadership, operational strategies, and personal qualities helped to shape the Canadian Army into a highly professional and effective fighting force. Monty and the Canadian Army serves as a reminder of the enduring value of leadership, training, and preparation in the pursuit of military excellence.

\n Weight: 740g\n
Dimension: 162 x 238 x 33 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781487506995\n \n