Nearly a third of a million Irishmen fought in the great war and 50.000 died. There was a significant Irish presence in every major theatre of war. The Irish were mobilised in three divisions - the 10th. The 16th and the 36th - as well as in the traditional Irish regiments. In all, 72 battalions were raised and saw active service. While the achievements of the 36th - especially on the Somme - are well known. The stories of the10th and 16th have remained largely untold until now.
Tom Johnston’s book is the first comprehensive overview of Irish participation in the war. Irish history. As such, it is a major addition not just to Irish military history but to the history of the War in general.
Tom Johnstone is a retired British army officer. Originally from Ireland, he has lived in England since his teens but still has strong family connections in Ireland.