Rolf Devinci

 The Athenian victory at Marathon in 490BC is examined in The First Clash by James Lacey. Detailing the history of Persia and the rise of Athens along with the military doctrines used by both sides Lacey offers an informative and compelling history of this pivotal battle.  Published in 2011 by Bantam books it is available in both soft and hardcover versions. Without illustrations and only a couple basic maps of Greece and Asia Minor/Middle East some knowledge of the region is helpful but not necessary. The text is laid out in easy to read short(er) chapters and is a fascinating read on the burgeoning competition between the Greek and Persian worlds prior to the second Persion invasion of 480BC.  Picked up a good quality used softcover copy online for less than $10. A definite score considering how much I enjoyed the book.

Being a history nerd from an early age, enamored by Greek myths and legends, I have always desired a replica of a Corinthian helmet so popular during the late Archaic and early Classical period of ancient Greece. Finally purchased from Amazon an example of the style for the man cave/armory as a birthday gift to myself. As most of the historical replica industry is based in India this helmet arrived from Historic Handicrafts fairly quickly via UPS and was well packaged. The helmet itself was enclosed in plastic and was very well oiled to prevent rust. Unlike the copper originals modern replicas are most often forged from 18 gauge steel. For about $110 CDN I was happy with the product. There were no sharp edges on the helmet, the brass painted finish was well done and the plume's base was of a suede material. Inside the helmet was an adjustable leather liner which enabled one to customize the fit. The horsehair plume was bent to the left. Whether it was made that way or the result of...

The Oracle by William J Broad, published by Penguin books is a historic and scientific examination of ancient Delphi and the mystery behind it's reputation. The first part of the book looks at historical Delphi and the political and social impact the Navel of the World had upon ancient Greece. The second half looks at the archeological evidence in combination with modern geological science to determine if there was a scientific explanation for the prophetic prowess of the Oracles. A very intriguing and enjoyable read. Highly recommended if you enjoy historic mysteries.

Focusing upon the British army after the French defeat at Waterloo until the end of the Crimean War Ian Knight's Warriors in Crimson discusses the challenging evolution of the army away from Napoleonic tactics and kit to a colonial army capable of building an empire facing unorthodox opponents and unfamiliar terrain. Examining rapid colonial expansion in South Africa, New Zealand, India, Afghanistan and Crimea Knight discusses the challenges and failures of the British army in the first half of the 19th century. A good read offering an indepth look at the tactics, campaigns and key battles it would be helpful if maps were included for reference but otherwise a solid book. Published by MacMillan the hardcover offering includes easy to read text size and two sections of photographs.

Published by Random House A War Like No Other by Victor Davis Hanson is an excellent review of the Peloponnesian War. Unlike a chronological accounting Hanson examined the conflict through the use of key strategies; fear, fire, disease, terror,armor, walls, horses and ships. The conflict was not short nor followed the traditional rules of Greek hoplite warfare and ushered in a new era of total war. The paperback version includes a few maps but no photos. Text is rather small and printed on duller newspaper style paper so can be a challenge upon the eyes. Otherwise it is a great read and resource for understanding the Peloponnesian War and the subsequent impact upon ancient Greece.

Purchased a copy of The Bronze Lie by Myke Cole from Osprey Publishing. The premise of the book is questioning the myth of Spartan warrior supremacy through a honest and accurate accounting of Sparta's role in ancient Greece. Well researched using archival, literary and archeological sources Myke examines the influence Sparta had upon Greece, the victories won and defeats suffered in the constantly changing geopolitical arena that was ancient Greece. Sparta's power and influence, like all empires, ebbed and flowed over the course of time. An excellent and refreshing look at the militarism of Spartan society not the Hollywood mythos of Frank Miller's fictional 300 that has so enraptured modern sensibilities. Color plates included along with some maps to support the text. A basic knowledge of ancient Greece and the various city states is helpful but not necessary.

With May coming to an end and summer around the corner the 2023/2024 ball hockey season has finished. It was a shortened transient season of play due to continued renovations of our venue. Fortunately we were able to source a replacement recreation centre to salvage a few months of play. Between my continued recovery from my 2021 accident and an extended layoff due to venue renovations I really struggled physically during and after our games. That led to self doubt about my ability to effectively play goal at a level I expected of myself. I was ready to retire. I possess a love for the game and having ceased cycling upon advice of my neurosurgeon I decided to explore options that might mitigate the physical demands of goaltending and extend my involvement in my remaining sporting passion. Compression socks definitely helped my sixty one year old calves and Achilles tendons. A refocus of my strength training regimen to include frequent "leg days" strengthening my lower body; c...