The Crusading General: The Life of General Sir Bernard Paget GCB DSO MC

Bernard Paget was a highly successful military leader who played a key role in preparing the Army for the Second Front in Europe in 1944. He was known for his skill as a trainer and his ability to work well with other senior officers, despite his sometimes irascible and rude behavior. After the war, he pursued a successful career in education and charities and was regarded as one of the most influential generals of his time.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Bernard Paget's military career was a remarkable success, culminating in high-level appointments during World War II. As C-in-C Home Forces and the C-in-C 21st Army Group, he played a crucial role in preparing the Army for the Second Front in Europe in 1944. Despite his efforts, he was not deployed in battle with the weapon he had shaped and tempered. Paget demonstrated his bravery as a soldier in the Great War and his strategic skills in the challenging Norway campaign. He excelled as a trainer, which suited him well for his wartime appointments. Although he was known for his irascible, brusque, and sometimes rude behavior, possibly due to the pain from his war wounds, he worked effectively with Alanbrooke (the CIGS). However, his relationship with Monty, who took over 21st Army Group from him before D-Day, was tumultuous. Paget was appointed Commander-in-Chief in the Middle East, a significant post previously held by Wavell, Alexander, and Jumbo Wilson. This book sheds new light on other prominent figures of World War II. After retiring in 1946, he pursued a full career in education and charities. Despite his influential status, Paget often remained the bridesmaid rather than the bride, perhaps due to circumstances or his character. Nevertheless, his contribution to victory cannot be overstated.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399074551