Book excerpt: Essential Militaria is an invaluable repository of information and facts about warfare through the ages. It is the place to find the largest naval battles; the most decisive weaponry; the ranks of the British Army and some very fine speeches. Essential Militaria also encompasses curiosities such as animal bravery awards; the most significant special operations in history; Napoleon's generals; and the eight wounds sustained by Alexander the Great. Authoritative, unusual and irreverent, it is the indispensable companion for armchair generals everywhere.