The Halberd — Field Craft

             In 1939, with temperatures routinely at -30 degrees (Fahrenheit), the Finnish Army took on the Soviet Union in what is now known as the "Winter War".  One of many important takeaways from the conflict is the Finns' ability to not only fight, but thrive in such unforgiving conditions.  In William Trotter's book, "A Frozen Hell," he writes that "One of the main factors that enabled the Finns to destroy forces much larger than their own was surely rooted in the differing psychologies of the men engaged on either side.  To the Finnish soldier, the...

"That as the security of the lives, liberties, and properties of the inhabitants of this province depends under Providence on their knowledge and skill in the art military, and in their being properly and effectually armed and equipt...and that they use their utmost diligence to perfect themselves in military skill..." -Provincial Congress 1774      The "art military"...What does the term mean?  The quote above establishes that the "art military" is, in fact, quite relevant since the preservation of our "lives, liberties, and properties" depends upon it.  With the stakes so high, then, one might question why the text offers...