'Night Operations For Infantry - Compiled For The Use Of Company Officers (1916)' Summary

The book 'Night Operations For Infantry - Compiled For The Use Of Company Officers' by Charles Tyrwhitt Dawkins, published in 1916, is a comprehensive guide to combat tactics during the night. Written for British company officers during World War I, the manual addresses the unique challenges of fighting in darkness. Dawkins emphasizes the crucial importance of training troops to overcome fear and anxiety associated with night operations. He stresses the need for individual instruction, teaching soldiers to move stealthily, communicate effectively, and maintain discipline in the dark. The book examines various aspects of night combat, covering topics such as reconnaissance, patrol tactics, methods for navigating unfamiliar terrain, and the psychological factors that influence performance under nighttime conditions. It also delves into the importance of leadership and the role of officers in maintaining order and morale during night operations. The manual highlights the challenges posed by nighttime combat, especially for soldiers accustomed to urban environments, and offers practical strategies to overcome these difficulties. 'Night Operations For Infantry' serves as a testament to the importance of training and discipline in achieving success in nighttime warfare.