To comprehend and chronicle the sheer scale of the conflict on the Western Front demands a book of similar scope. Now, published for the centenary of the start of World War I in August 2014, here is that book. More than merely a chronological account of the fighting, The Western Front Companion is an astonishingly comprehensive and forensic anatomy of how and why the armies fought, of their weapons, equipment, and tactics, for over four long and bloody years, on a battlefield stretching from the Belgian coast to the Swiss frontier--a distance of 450 miles.Comprehensive coverage of World War I's Western Front* Breaks down the battles that took place in France and Belgium from 1914 to 1918 in trenches and fields, on muddy river plains, and against fortsCovers the uniforms, equipment, and weaponry, as well as the strategy, tactics, and orders of battle of all sides* Impressively illustrated with color maps, diagrams, charts, drawings, and period photos* Includes modern-day photos overlaid with markings to show troop movements* Required reference for scholars and military history buffs as the war's 100th anniversary approaches.