We Few, We Happy Few . . . .

A lot more than outer space goes into the mix when I write a book.  Anyone who reads my novels knows that I’m something of a military history buff.  But, today would have slipped past without my notice but for my old college radio friend, Laurie Hardison, who pointed out via Facebook status that today is St. Crispin’s day. On this date in the year 1415, an English force of about 7,000 men (it may have been as few as 6,000) under the command of King Henry V met a numerically superior French force, numbering somewhere between 12,000 and 36,000. The English were exhausted, hungry, and suffering from disease. The French were well-fed and fresh. Due to the arrogance of the French and superior English tactical doctrine, deployments, and combat maneuvers, the English won a victory that was both overwhelming and decisive. This victory was the centerpiece of an immortal work of English Literature, Shakespeare’s play, “Henry V” which is one of my personal favorites. The film version directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh is superb–watching it on Netflix would be a marvelous way to commemorate this day. Or, if you aren’t in the mood for the whole film, here is the high point, the absolutely glorious, defiant “Band of Brother’s” speech, and the set up for it. It is a stirring five minutes–well worth your time.  I especially like the bit with the French herald near the end where Henry refuses to be ransomed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRj01LShXN8