Essex's Military Heritage

Few counties can rival Essex’s extensive and varied military history. The battles fought in Essex, and by its servicemen and women overseas, have not only shaped the history of the county but have directly influenced the course of British and world history. In ‘Essex’s Military Heritage’, Adam Culling explores 2,000 years of the county’s military history, beginning with Boudicca’s attack on Roman Colchester, the frontline battles between the Anglo-Saxons and Viking raiders, medieval and Civil War sieges and beyond. Throughout Essex no better connection to its military past is more present than the physical evidence which remains. Norman castles, Tudor and Victorian forts, coastal and inland defences and the RAF and US Army Air Force airfields from the Second World War, are a few reminders of Essex’s military past. From the largest war memorial in the county, located in Colchester’s Castle Park, to commemorative stained-glass windows in village churches; peculiar, intriguing and moving memorials of military sacrifices are ever present throughout Essex.From the Crimean War to the present day, Essex has been the home to many military units. None are more significant than the Essex Regiment who, along with their predecessors, fought bravely in conflicts all around the world. Munition factories and wartime manufacturing, gallant and distinguished conduct, Zeppelin crash sites, requisitioned stately homes and ‘secret’ nuclear bunkers: this book provides a fascinating insight into the events, people and places which represent Essex’s Military Heritage.