Thunder on the Danube

Thunder on the Danube Vol I - John H Gill

I recently picked up the first volume of John H Gill's trilogy on the 1809 campaign for a mere £1.19 on the Kindle.  Now I will admit that I have a weakness for multi volume histories. Having a job that involves a considerable amount of train travel certainly gives me the opportunity.  I'm particularly looking forward to the paperback of volume iv of Jonathan Sumption's Hundred Years War, I managed a couple of units of archers for Basic Impetus after the last one.

This didn't disappoint.  A brief build up to the campaign is followed by a detailed description of Charles' initial moves and Berthier's blunders before Napoleon arrives and takes a firm hold.  The details of unit movements are very detailed, down to individual companies at some points.  I dug out the road atlas but sadly this was too small scale for events and my knowledge of Bavaria isn't that good.  I may have to invest in some larger scale maps for the next volumes.

All in all, thoroughly recommended if you have an interest in Napoleonic warfare and makes a pleasant change from the Peninsular or Russia.  Now I really must get around to finishing Napier.  So far I've managed to resist buying a few packs of Austrians but with SELWG just around the corner the temptation is still there.  I look forward to the next installment.

The Hardest Day/Battle of Britain Day

The school holidays are finally over, a mere seven weeks this year, and things are slowly returning to what passes for normal.  Hopefully this means I should be able to catch up on Blogging.  Painting has continued, one of the few things I've managed to keep going, and I'll update on additions in the near future.

Today is Battle of Britain Day and several flights of Spitfires and Hurricanes will be leaving Goodwood and on a variety of routes around Southern England.  Maps of routes here.  It looks like Blue Section should be flying nearby so I'll head up to the Downs with the dogs at lunchtime in the vain hope of catching something.

There was a similar flight on 18th August, The Hardest Day which we were able to catch as they took off from Biggin Hill and the headed to the Isle of Wight before returning.

We also visited Kenley Aerodrome that day to walk the dogs.  Kenley was attacked by a flight of low flying Dorniers that day causing casualties and much damage.

The airfield itself is still used by local gliding clubs but you can walk or cycle around the edge where several dispersal pens survive.  Worth a quick visit if you're in the area.

Edit - Take off has been postponed to 2.00pm due to the weather, not sure I'll be able to catch them now sadly.