Pillars of Fire Author:Ian Passingham, A SUTTON Despite its "self-contained" nature and unique qualities, there has been no definitive book or study of the Battle of Messines Ridge, which took place in June of 1917 to spectacular military success for the British and Commonwealth forces. Drawing his material from a wide range of primary sources in England, Germany, and Australia, the author l... more »ooks at the action from all levels of command including soldiers' viewpoints, during the preparatory, battle, and post-battle phases. The attack is also examined from the viewpoint of the German troops on the other side of the wire. A revealing study of the planning and execution of the Royal Engineer's tunnelling and mining activities is also included, based on previously unpublished sources.« less