The Casualty Returns refer to the total losses of ocean going merchant ships over 100 gross tonnes. The Returns were published quarterly and annually, recording losses according to flag and cause of loss. Early Quarterly Returns give figures for steam and sailing vessels by flag and cause of loss, and for total tonnage owned in each country.

War has always been a dangerous business, bringing injury, wounds, and death, and--until recently--often disease. What has changed over time, most dramatically in the last 150 or so years, is the care these casualties receive and who provides it. This book looks at the history of how humanity has cared for its war casualties and veterans, from ancient times through the aftermath of World War II.