A West Pointer with the Boers $b personal narrative of Colonel J. Y. F. Blake, commander of the Irish brigade

"A West Pointer with the Boers" by John Y. Fillmore Blake is an early 20th-century story that recounts the author's time as a colonel during the Boer War. The story centers on Blake's firsthand account of the war and emphasizes the role and experiences of the Irish Brigade within this setting. The story traces Blake's path from his past military experiences to his decision to join the conflict in South Africa, propelled by his and other Irish Americans' intense loyalties to the Boer people. As the Irish Brigade readies itself for combat against the British, readers witness the deep connections between the soldiers, but also the obstacles they face. A sense of animosity toward the British grows as the characters enter clashes with the British forces.