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Loving re-reading Slim’s ‘Defeat into Victory’. As @UrchTyrone says, one of the best and most readable all round books on military affairs. Slim’s eight lessons from the original Burma defeat are timeless, even in considerations of modern jungle warfare. Thread of the eight ...
1/8 The individual soldier must learn, by living, moving, and exercising in it, that the jungle is neither impenetrable nor unfriendly. When he has once learned to move and live in it, he can use it for concealment, covered movement, and surprise.
2/8 Patrolling is the master key to jungle fighting. All units, not only infantry battalions, must learn to patrol in the jungle, boldly, widely, cunningly, and offensively.
3/ 8 All units must get used to having enemy parties in their rear, and, when this happens, regard not themselves, but the enemy, as ‘surrounded’.
4/8 In defence, no attempt should be made to hold long continuous lines. Avenues of approach must be covered and enemy penetration between our posts dealt with at once by mobile local reserves who have completely reconnoitred the country.
5/8 There should rarely be frontal attacks and never frontal attacks on narrow fronts. Attacks should follow hooks and come in from flank or rear, while pressure holds the enemy in front.
6/8 Tanks can be used in almost any country except swamp. In close country they must always have inf to defend + recce for them. They should always be used in max numbers available + capable of being deployed. Penny packets must be avoided. ‘The more you use, the fewer you lose.’
7/8 There are no non-combatants in jungle warfare. Every unit and sub-unit, including medical ones, is responsible for its own all-round protection, including patrolling, at all times.
8/8 If the enemy are allowed to hold the initiative they are formidable. When we have it, they are confused and easy to kill. By mobility away from roads, surprise, and offensive action we must regain and keep the initiative.
