Introduction Civilian-based defence (or social defence) describes non-military action by a society or social group, particularly in a context of a sustained campaign against outside attack or dictatorial rule – or preparations for such a campaign in the event of external attack or usurpation. There are various near-synonyms, including “non-violent defence”, “civilian defence” and “defence… Read More
Introduction The sudis (plural sudes) was a stake carried by Roman legionaries for employment as a field fortification, sometimes also called vallus. It is frequently, but incorrectly, called a pilum murale (“wall spear”). Typically, two such stakes were carried by each soldier. Refer to Cheval de Frise, Czech Hedgehog, Caltrop, Dragon’s Teeth, and Makibishi. Construction… Read More
Introduction The National Service Act 1948 was an Act of Parliament which extended the British conscription of the Second World War long after the war-time need for it had expired, in the form of “National Service”. After a bill with the same purpose had been approved in 1947, expected to be implemented 01 January 1949,… Read More
Introduction The Military Training Act 1939 was an Act of Parliament passed by the Parliament of the United Kingdom on 26 May 1939, in a period of international tension that led to World War II. Outline The Act applied to males aged 20 and 21 years old who were to be called up for six… Read More
Introduction The National Service (Armed Forces) Act 1939 was enacted by the Parliament of the United Kingdom on 03 September 1939, the day the United Kingdom declared war on Germany at the start of the Second World War. It superseded the Military Training Act 1939 (enacted in May of that year) and enforced full conscription… Read More
Introduction The Department of Labour and National Service was an Australian government department that existed between 28 October 1940 and 19 December 1972. Refer to World War II and Demobilisation of the Australian military after World War II. Scope Information about the department’s functions and/or government funding allocation could be found in the Administrative Arrangements… Read More
Introduction The Department of Post-War Reconstruction was an Australian Government department responsible for planning and coordinating Australia’s transition to a peacetime economy after World War II. The department was established in December 1942 and dissolved in March 1950. Refer to Demobilisation of the Australian Military after World War II. Brief History The Department of Post-War… Read More
Boot Camp & Military Fitness Institute 