Bugles and a Tiger

The first of Jack Masters' three autobiographies, this was an excellent and detailed view of Masters' career in the Indian Army. After graduating from Sandhurst (officer training school) in 1933, he was seconded to the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry for a year before applying to serve with the 4th Prince of Wales's Own Gurkha Rifles. He saw service on the North-West Frontier (in Pakistan, at the border with Afghanistan) with the 2nd battalion of the regiment, and was rapidly given a variety of appointments within the battalion and the regimental depot, becoming the Adjutant of the 2nd battalion in early 1939 (where this book ends).

It is generally told in a linear fashion, although it does duck back and forward in time to provide explanation or background to a situation. The writing I found very good, with very detailed descriptions of all manner of aspects of life. Where I believe he excelled was describing the nature of his Gurkha soldiers - whom he clearly has an affinity with, and great respect for. There were some very astute observations made by Masters, who really proved his understanding of his men.

There was plenty of humour in the telling of his stories, often Masters himself was the source, but he also recalls stories about fellow officers (although he doesn't name names). There was also enough light history, where appropriate in the narrative, to fill in some explanations.

Also covered is and impromptu tiger hunt and Masters' travel through the USA when on ferlough, enroute back to Britain - again interesting perceptions of the States in this era.

The book comes to a close as Germany ramps up the war by invading Poland.

4.5 stars