.
.
by Charles P. Meinmeyer.
Softcover (6.7×9.3 inches). 96 pages. 2025.
Excuse me for repeating myself, but this volume in the Casemate Illustrated series is another abridged and edited repackaging of the US Army “Blue Book.” I call it the Blue Book because on my copy the cover was blue. It’s like the WWII Green books, only in blue. The first The War of 1812 booklet was US Army 1783-1811: Defending a New Nation followed by The Canadian Theater 1813. All three share the same pedigree.
Two highlights are the Battles of Bladensburg and Fort McHenry, plus a number of land skirmishes and battles in and around the bay. Considering we lost the national capitol but gained a nation anthem and ultimately autonomy on the oceans, this campaign was a key part in the defense of the US.
The booklet contains four black and white photos, 12 color photos, 10 black and white illustrations, one black and white map, 29 color illustrations, and seven color maps. I believe you’ll agree that the multitude illustrations are the “value add” of the booklet.
Again, nicely done, including the original text.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
