This is a fascinating account of life during some of the fiercest battles of WW1. It is compiled from the oral histories of Charlie ‘Ginger’ Byrne given in the 1970s, but his memories and accounts of his service are still very detailed despite the time passed since the war. He had a lively way of writing, and although parts deal with the death through gassing of his fellow soldiers in the trenches etc, his general good humour and acceptance of his lot shine through. I have read a lot of WW1 material, but this book still had everyday details that I had not seen mentioned before, and also aspects I had just never considered. I would recommend this to anyone interested in everyday life of a soldier in WW1, as Charlie fought at the Somme and 3rd Ypres, as well as the battles in 1918 when the Germans retreated. The editor has taken time to provide background information to help the reader, as well as useful appendices. Many memoirs are rather self -conceited, but this is not at all.

The Royal Hampshire Comrades Association

A marvelous account that we are lucky to have had recorded before it was too late.

Military Modeling

This is an account that no enthusiast of military history should miss.

Firetrench

Charlie 'Ginger' Byrne records his memoirs, warts 'n all, and has no fear of telling the mundane and the humorous along with the brave and horrific. From lice to nasty corporals, from bacon and dripping to the Chinese Labour Corps, Byrne crams it all in and leaves you educated and fascinated with details I have never had the privilege to read before. ... This is a true soldiers tale, quick-paced, funny, sad and probably one of the best books I've picked up and read this year.

War History Online