Monty’s Functional Doctrine – Book Review

Chairman Mark J shares his thoughts on a book looking at the British combined arms doctrine during WW2. Monty’s Functional Doctrine – Combined Arms Doctrine In British 21st Army Group In Northwest Europe, 1944-45 By Charles Forrester Hellion 2015 I really enjoyed Monty’s Functional Doctrine as it offered a fresh and evidence based assessment of Montgomery’s leadership and the way he shaped 21st Army Group. Rather than relying on the usual myths and assumptions surrounding Monty, the author examines how his methods, planning and command philosophy actually functioned in practice. The book explains clearly why Montgomery fought the way he did and how his approach reflected both the strengths and limitations of the British Army during the campaign in North West Europe. What stood out most was the balanced nature of the argument. The author neither presents Montgomery as an untouchable genius nor dismisses him as simply cautious and over methodical. Instead, the book makes a convincing…