Irish Army Vehicles: Transport
and Armour since 1922
by Karl Martin
(published by the author, 2002); 152 pages; 35 Euros.
Dubliner Karl Martin's lifelong interest in military matters
has resulted in the only book, so far as I know, to deal comprehensively
with Irish armour
and softskins. Consider this book a kind of follow-up to his critically
praised booklet, Irish Army Armoured Cars, published in 1983.
Aimed squarely at the modellers, wargamer and military
enthusiast, this hardcover offering includes more than 400 photos and
drawings. Most of
the photos are in black in white, though there is a four-page colour section.
All the photos are captioned. Short essays describe how and why each vehicle
was introduced. Technical data is also listed.
The book begins with a look at the armoured cars of the
1922 Irish Civil War and concludes with the army's newly acquired LAV
IIIs. In between, we are treated to Churchills, Comets, Landrovers and
a host of more obscure
vehicles. Even civilian buses, vans and station wagons used by the Irish
Army are included.
With so much ground to cover, there obviously isn't room
for extensive coverage of any one vehicle. Martin sensibly allocates more
space to
the significant vehicles. Many of the photos are "in action."
Others are
formal portraits, as it were. A few detailed, close-up shots or interior
photos are also included.
If you're interested in Irish armour and softskins, this
is obviously an essential reference work. Martin's essays are also useful
for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of the Irish Army.
Paul Fraser
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