Redcaps: Britain's Military Police (Elite) [Paperback]

Mike Chappell (Author, Illustrator)

Book Description

Series: Elite | Publication Date: May 15, 1997

The story of Britain's provost forces necessarily focuses attention on some of the less glorious episodes of British Army history. Had every British soldier over the centuries been an obedient and dutiful soul, there would have been no need for provost of military police. Sadly, armies – particularly in time of war – have always been home for the criminal, and the British Army has had its share of thieves and cut-throats, as well as its drunken and licentious element. How these were contained, or dealt with, is the main subject of this book. The men who tamed the lawless are its subject.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

An unrivalled illustrated reference source on fighting men and commanders, past and present. Each volume is packed with full colour artwork, making military history uniquely accessible to enthusiasts of all ages.

About the Author

Mike Chappell spent 22 years in infantry soldiering, retiring in 1974 as RSM of the 1st Bn., The Wessex Regiment (Rifle Volunteers). Since beginning to paint military subjects in 1968 Mike has gained world-wide popularity as a military illustrator, and has been a prolific artist and author for Osprey for well over 20 years. He currently lives and works in Kent.

Product Details

• Paperback: 64 pages
• Publisher: Osprey Publishing (May 15, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1855326701
• ISBN-13: 978-1855326705
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 7.2 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,693,173 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars A 1st Rate Book on a little know Unit, May 7, 2005

By 

D. D Lawson (Pasadena, Calif. USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Redcaps: Britain's Military Police (Elite) (Paperback)

RSM Chappell has done an excellent job on one of the British Armys less know but none the less very vital unit. The Redcaps as the Military Police are known over there are the Police Department of the Army.
Theirs is a very tough, dirty & demanding job that is not done properly can blow up in your face as history has been shown in Iraq. It was also an eye opener to me in that he does not gloss over some of the problems the Brits faced with some of their more rowdy rascals. Especially after WWII when the Army it seems had more than their fair share of discipline problems with their National Servicemen.
Also this Book is the exception that proves the general rule about the Osprey Series. I.E. you either have excellent illustrations or a well written text, very seldom do you have both. Fortunetley, Mr. Chappell has the skill & experience to do an outstanding job in both areas. His illustrations show a keen use of color, realism and a wealth of experience to back it up.
It is also very clear that he has a lot of love and respect for good soldiers. If I see either his name or Mr. McBride no matter the subject, I need to buy the book as I know that I am in for a treat.