Anthony Kemp

Anthony Kemp (1939–2018) was an English author, journalist, and military historian whose work primarily focused on World War II. Born in London, his childhood experiences in Hampshire during the war significantly shaped his later historical interests. After serving in the Royal Air Force and spending time in Germany, he pursued modern history studies at Oxford University.

Kemp transitioned into a career in television, working for twelve years as a researcher, producer, and director of documentary programs, particularly for Television South. He was involved in several award-winning documentaries concerning World War II. His writing career produced numerous books on military and contemporary history, as well as contributions to academic journals. He also lived in France during the early 1990s, continuing his freelance work. Notably, Kemp authored books on military commanders and also explored subjects like witchcraft and paganism.

Born in London in 1939, Anthony Kemp retained vivid memories of the preparations for D-Day from his childhood in Hampshire. He received his education at Brighton College. Following his service in the Royal Air Force, Kemp lived in Germany for several years. Upon returning to England, he enrolled at Pembroke College, Oxford, to study modern history. After a brief tenure as a university lecturer, Kemp embarked on a significant period in television.

For twelve years, Anthony Kemp dedicated his career to British television, serving as a researcher, producer, and director for documentary programs, notably with Television South. During this time, he became associated with several acclaimed documentary productions centered on World War II. One such production was 'Nan Red,' which detailed the D-Day landings at Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer in Calvados.

Kemp authored a substantial body of work, including numerous books covering various aspects of military and contemporary history, and contributed to academic journals. His interest in military figures led him to write on Allied and German commanders of World War II for Osprey Publishing's Men-at-Arms series. Beyond his military historical writings, Kemp also delved into spiritual and occult subjects, publishing 'Witchcraft and Paganism Today' in 1995 and co-authoring 'Practical Paganism' in 1996, indicating a broader intellectual curiosity.