*British, WW2, Royal Military College (RMC Sandhurst), Pocket Cards, The Principles of War (8 Principles)*
“Royal Military College Pocket Cards. The Principles of War.”
P.C.1-P.C.16 (16 cards with page 16 a folded card). 13.5cm x 8.5cm
These pocket cards are undated but likely to be WW2 – The British Army’s principles of war were first published after the First World War and based on the work of the British general and military theorist, J. F. C. Fuller. In addition in 1947 saw the end of the designation RMC – budget cuts saw the RMA (Royal Military Academy) Woolwich unify with the RMC (Royal Military College) Sandhurst, creating the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS). They are a very rare find and we have never seen another set.
The demands on training in WW2 were immense. The significant officer losses and the rapid expansion of the officer corps from 28,060 to over 229,300 during the war required a quick increase in officer numbers at all levels. To meet this demand, civilians were swiftly commissioned with minimal training, retired officers were recalled, and a large staff, often without attending the Staff College, was assembled. Officers were assigned to new technologically driven corps, and improvised training courses were introduced. In the early chaotic months of the war, individuals with appropriate education and background, despite limited military experience, were directly posted to units, learning their duties on the job in the New Armies, Special Reserve, and expanded Territorial Force. One can all too easily imagine how integral these pocket cards might have been for this on-the-job training.
“ROYAL MILITARY COLLEGE. THE PRINCIPLES OF WAR.
1- Maintenance of the Objective – For every operation there is an objective. Keep that objective constantly in mind.
2-Offensive Action – Victory can only be won by attacking.
3-Surprise – Always endeavour to outwit your adversary.
4-Concentration – Strike hard with every man, horse and gun available against the enemy’s weak spot.
5-Economy of Force – In order to concentrate vide 4. You must economize your force at first.
6-Security – Always be guarded against surprise.
7-Mobility – Think, act and move quickly. You can then achieve surprise.
8-Co-Operation – It is only by “team play” i.e., the close co-operation of all arms and weapons that battles are won.”
*Condition*
Parts of the Royal Military Cards have been annotated in pencil. Notably with P.C.9 under Duties of Sentries “password” has been added, P.C.10 Outposts “Not at Night!!” has been added to ‘Discuss alternative positions’. These annotations only add to the historical value of these cards. The cards are in good used condition. Please see photographs.
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