The Steps To Glory – Book Launch Invitation

Steps To Glory Book Launch. Volume 1 covering 1660 to July 1914 is being launched at a talk and reception ‘An Evening in Conversation’ on 22 July 2026 in the Indian Army Memorial Room in Old College, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Camberley, Surrey.

Click to see the full details The cost of the evening ticket can be deducted from the purchase price of the book at the event. Booking in is via Eventbrite

An Evening in Conversation

Lt Col (Retd) Simon Shephard and Dr Victoria Carr

with

Dr Ed Flint

Indian Army Memorial Room

Royal Military Academy Sandhurst

on

Wednesday 22 July from 1830 to1930 hrs

In conjunction with the Academy Library, Sandhurst Collection and Sandhurst Trust

By kind permission of

Major General Nick Cowley OBE

General Officer Commanding Army Initial Training Command

and

Commandant of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst

The Steps to Glory is the first volume in a landmark study of the commissioning of officers for Britain’s Land Forces. From the Restoration to the eve of the Great War, it explores how class, conflict and changing policy shaped the initial entry of officers into Britain’s armies.

Have you ever wondered what kind of people seek a commission in the British Army: who they are, where they come from, how they are selected and what training they undergo? Perhaps you’ve held a commission yourself? How do your experiences compare with those of your predecessors?

Having analysed the concept of a commission and the societal position of those holding one before the Restoration, The Steps to Glory traces the evolution of commissioning into Britain’s armies from 1660 to July 1914. It examines all routes, from purchase and patronage to competitive exams. It also considers officer commissioning from the ranks along with those for the militia, yeomanry, volunteer and cadet forces.

Drawing on an exceptional and expansive range of sources from across the UK and abroad, the authors blend established scholarship with previously unpublished material from The National Archives, National Army Museum and the British Library. Their research is further enriched by personal accounts and access to multiple regimental, school and regional collections – including full use of the Sandhurst Collection and the library of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Volume Two will carry the story forward from the outbreak of the First World War to the present day.

Programme and Dress

1800 to 1830 hrs: Drinks Reception – Old College Main Entrance

1830 to 1930 hrs: Discussion and Q&A session – Indian Army Memorial Room

1930 to 2030 hrs: Book Signing – Le Marchant Room

                             Drinks and Canapes – Old College Main Entrance

                             Access to the Sandhurst Museum

Lounge suits or equivalent.

Tickets

Ticket are price at £20 per head and are available from Eventbrite using this link.

The ticket price will be deducted from the cost of a signed copy of The Steps to Glory.

Additional copies will be available on the night for £40 (RRP £45)

Point of Contact

Simon Shephard at [email protected] or on 07818 720156

The Authors:

Lt Colonel (Retd) Simon Shephard MA. Simon served in the Army for 42 years joining in 1983 and attended Sandhurst in 1991. He commanded a Personnel Recovery Unit and served as a Deputy President at AOSB. Simon provided chapters for The Darkest Year (Helion, 2022) and London Pride (Helion, 2026). He is the chair of his local WFA Branch and sits on the Council of the SAHR.

Dr Victoria Carr EdD. Vic is a Headteacher with a Doctorate in educational leadership underpinned by two MAs. She is also a captain in the Intelligence Corps Reserve having commissioned in 2021.  She has supported her military career by completing a further two MAs. Vic is also a Senior Research Fellow of the Centre for Army Leadership and sits on the board of Women Empowering Defence.

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New Book from BMMHS - will be published in 2026

Articles of War Cover

The concept and inspiration of this new book, Articles of War, came from historian and BMMHS supporter Nick Brazil. Nick, ably assisted by his faithful and loveable dog Harold, has regularly researched and written numerous articles for the BMMHS website. 

These articles have centred on some of the more obscure and lesser-known aspects of military and international conflict. All fascinating and enlightening, they range from the bizarre and incredible to the most frightening and dangerous.

Nick has kindly offered to donate the royalties from Articles of War to BMMHS/Veterans with Dogs, and we thank him for this most generous offer.

The manuscript is well underway with proof reading having been completed. We will keep you updated as to progress as we aim for publication in 2026.

Proceeds from the Sale of Articles of War will go to Veterans With Dogs.

Life‑changing assistance dogs for veterans living with mental health injuries.