Under the Devil's Eye: The British Military Experience in Macedonia 1915 - 1918

The authors have researched the Salonika Campaign in every detail, from the arrival of the first British troops in 1915 to final victory. During this period large numbers of British and allied troops were tied up in the strategically vital Balkans. Salonika was converted into a vast military base and over 70 miles of defensive works were created.

We learn of the disappointments of the British XII Corps offensive in April/May 1917 (The First Battle of Doiran) and the more successful aggressive raiding in the Struma Valley. Using first hand accounts, a vivid picture of life for the British Army is painted, with the roles of the Royal Flying Corps/RAF and RNAS well covered.

The campaign drew to a victorious conclusion with the defeat of the Bulgarians in 1918 but the British Salonika Army remained in place until 1921. The effect of this slow demobilization is also covered.

Alan Wakefield has degrees at Reading University, King’s College London and University College London. He is a curator at the IWM. He lives at St Albans.