Training for the Trenches: A Practical Handbook Based upon Personal Experience During the First Two Years of the War in France

"Training for the Trenches" by Leslie Vickers is a practical handbook written during the early 20th century, specifically in the context of World War I. The book draws on the author's personal experiences as a soldier and lecturer in trench warfare, providing insights and suggestions for new soldiers transitioning from civilian life to the military. Vickers aims to equip these potential infantrymen with essential skills and knowledge for combat in the trenches, emphasizing the importance of discipline, obedience, and health. The opening of the handbook discusses the challenges faced by civilians as they become soldiers, highlighting the drastic shift in lifestyle and the necessity of learning to follow orders and cooperate in a military environment. Vickers reflects on personal adjustments he had to make, such as the loss of independence and the impact of strict routines. He emphasizes that the foundation of effective military training lies not only in physical preparedness but also in mental resilience and adaptability to new, demanding circumstances. The introduction sets the stage for deeper explorations into various aspects of trench warfare, focusing on the lessons learned and the practical measures soldiers must adopt to survive and thrive in the field.