New Book Reviews
Old Book Reviews
21 Days in Normandy
Author: Angelo Caravaggio
Publisher: Pen & Sword Military Books
21 Days in Normandy re-evaluates the role played by the 4th Canadian Armoured Division in Normandy and especially its commander, Major General George Kitching.
The division was in Normandy for approximately three weeks and in that time had taken part in the relief of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. The 4th Canadian also played an active part in Operation Totalize (punching through German defences to the south of Caen) and Operation Tractable (the capture of the French town of Falaise) trapping the retreating Army Group B of the Wehrmacht.
The Canadian and Polish attempts to close the Falaise gap were fruitless. Thousands of Germans escaped through a narrow opening several hundred yards wide, to fight another day, albeit without most of their equipment. The gap was finally closed on the 21st-23rd August 1944, but not before aspersions of failure had been cast on the Canadians for not closing it quicker. The scapegoat was Major Kitching - relieved of his command for advancing too slowly.
Considering this book is based on some major battles in the Normandy campaign, there is no action at all. The author comes at the subject from a completely different angle. Caravaggio discusses the structure of command within a combat force, the training they undertook prior to deployment and how this impacted their ability to perform in an actual battle.
The author also looks at the relationships between the different levels within the command structure from top to bottom. All these little things combine together to build a picture supporting the authors premise. Perhaps Kitching should not be the one to shoulder the blame for what was classed a below par performance and that there were extenuating circumstances. The book also questions the assumption that Operation Tractable could have achieved a better outcome - of course it could have. It goes without saying that any military operation carried out could have a better conclusion. With hindsight you are afforded a glimpse at what might have been. However, for a fresh force, new into theatre and having been thrown up against a well dug in enemy in ideal defensive terrain, was this really an under performance or had they performed to the best of their ability? Caravaggio asks all these questions.
This book is meticulously researched. Although being rather dry at times - there is barely a paragraph goes by that doesn't hit you with a fact or another piece of knowledge that you weren't aware off. If you're interested in the contact, command and control functions of a combat division, this title is for you.
I really enjoyed reading '21 Days in Normandy'. It is so different from the majority of books dealing with divisions fighting at Normandy in 1944. The author set out with the mission of re-evaluating and really getting into the nuts and bolts of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division. With this book he was completely successful.
As for the question of did the Canadians underperform? I suppose in the end its all down to perception. You will have to read the book and make your own decision.
The division was in Normandy for approximately three weeks and in that time had taken part in the relief of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. The 4th Canadian also played an active part in Operation Totalize (punching through German defences to the south of Caen) and Operation Tractable (the capture of the French town of Falaise) trapping the retreating Army Group B of the Wehrmacht.
The Canadian and Polish attempts to close the Falaise gap were fruitless. Thousands of Germans escaped through a narrow opening several hundred yards wide, to fight another day, albeit without most of their equipment. The gap was finally closed on the 21st-23rd August 1944, but not before aspersions of failure had been cast on the Canadians for not closing it quicker. The scapegoat was Major Kitching - relieved of his command for advancing too slowly.
Considering this book is based on some major battles in the Normandy campaign, there is no action at all. The author comes at the subject from a completely different angle. Caravaggio discusses the structure of command within a combat force, the training they undertook prior to deployment and how this impacted their ability to perform in an actual battle.
The author also looks at the relationships between the different levels within the command structure from top to bottom. All these little things combine together to build a picture supporting the authors premise. Perhaps Kitching should not be the one to shoulder the blame for what was classed a below par performance and that there were extenuating circumstances. The book also questions the assumption that Operation Tractable could have achieved a better outcome - of course it could have. It goes without saying that any military operation carried out could have a better conclusion. With hindsight you are afforded a glimpse at what might have been. However, for a fresh force, new into theatre and having been thrown up against a well dug in enemy in ideal defensive terrain, was this really an under performance or had they performed to the best of their ability? Caravaggio asks all these questions.
This book is meticulously researched. Although being rather dry at times - there is barely a paragraph goes by that doesn't hit you with a fact or another piece of knowledge that you weren't aware off. If you're interested in the contact, command and control functions of a combat division, this title is for you.
I really enjoyed reading '21 Days in Normandy'. It is so different from the majority of books dealing with divisions fighting at Normandy in 1944. The author set out with the mission of re-evaluating and really getting into the nuts and bolts of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division. With this book he was completely successful.
As for the question of did the Canadians underperform? I suppose in the end its all down to perception. You will have to read the book and make your own decision.
Reviewed by Shane Greer
Follow Shane on Twitter @_TheFewGoodMen
Follow Shane on Twitter @_TheFewGoodMen
Invasion - The Alternate History of the Invasion of England, July 1940
Author: Kenneth Macksey
Publisher: Frontline books
Invasion - The Alternate History of the Invasion of England, July 1940 by Kenneth Macksey Frontline Books, Barnsley, 2015, £14.99 (pb) 224 pages, illustrated with numerous period maps, aerial photographs and images of German arms and armour, bibliography, index.
ISBN 978-1848327856
Welcome to my latest review for Stand-Easy Military Books. Usually, we only review non-fiction books. However, this is a great piece of military fiction based on historical events, which luckily never came to fruition.
The year is 1940 and it’s set to become a dramatic turning point in World War Two. Hitler is considering the plans for Operation Sea Lion - the German invasion of England. Kenneth Macksey skilfully blends historical facts with the ‘what could have been’. The intended front-line for the main German assault was set between Dover and Hythe. England and the rest of Great Britain looked on anxiously. This well composed book discusses the huge German logistical organisation required to cohesively bring together various elements of the Wehrmacht, Kriegsmarine and Luftwaffe. Hitler’s generals faced many challenges whilst trying to fulfil the Führers ill-conceived idea of invasion.
As the build up to Operation Sea Lion gains pace, the planned assault is documented in a day to day timeline. This is backed up with intelligence gathered from Luftwaffe reconnaissance aircraft in the weeks and days leading up to the Operation. Likely British anti-tank defences, home chain installations and coastal batteries were all identified. At this early stage of World War Two the southern coast of England was woefully under prepared for invasion but the population were ready to defend their island – whatever the cost maybe. As an island nation the British Government knew only too well that the country would be totally reliant on the Royal Air Force to keep the waves of marauding German bombers from laying waste to important British infrastructure. The implications of Germany cutting off vital ammunition supplies and fuel to the Royal Navy would swiftly leave the sea lanes around Great Britain unprotected.
The civilian population in areas around Dover were, to some degree, already accustomed to bombardment by cross channel shelling. The inhabitants around the white cliffs were to witness, first hand, dog fights and brutal naval engagements as the battle to overrun the country commenced. In the event of an invasion would Churchill’s stay behinds, the embedded clandestine Auxiliary Units, surface to wreak havoc in a dramatic last stand against overwhelming German forces? How would those in power deal with the almost inconceivable? What, if anything, would our US allies do to help? Some of the answers are laid out here in this excellent re-print, originally published in 1999.
I thoroughly recommend this thought provoking and well researched book. It cleverly documents the build up to a world changing event which thankfully never happened. This is one for your Christmas list.
ISBN 978-1848327856
Welcome to my latest review for Stand-Easy Military Books. Usually, we only review non-fiction books. However, this is a great piece of military fiction based on historical events, which luckily never came to fruition.
The year is 1940 and it’s set to become a dramatic turning point in World War Two. Hitler is considering the plans for Operation Sea Lion - the German invasion of England. Kenneth Macksey skilfully blends historical facts with the ‘what could have been’. The intended front-line for the main German assault was set between Dover and Hythe. England and the rest of Great Britain looked on anxiously. This well composed book discusses the huge German logistical organisation required to cohesively bring together various elements of the Wehrmacht, Kriegsmarine and Luftwaffe. Hitler’s generals faced many challenges whilst trying to fulfil the Führers ill-conceived idea of invasion.
As the build up to Operation Sea Lion gains pace, the planned assault is documented in a day to day timeline. This is backed up with intelligence gathered from Luftwaffe reconnaissance aircraft in the weeks and days leading up to the Operation. Likely British anti-tank defences, home chain installations and coastal batteries were all identified. At this early stage of World War Two the southern coast of England was woefully under prepared for invasion but the population were ready to defend their island – whatever the cost maybe. As an island nation the British Government knew only too well that the country would be totally reliant on the Royal Air Force to keep the waves of marauding German bombers from laying waste to important British infrastructure. The implications of Germany cutting off vital ammunition supplies and fuel to the Royal Navy would swiftly leave the sea lanes around Great Britain unprotected.
The civilian population in areas around Dover were, to some degree, already accustomed to bombardment by cross channel shelling. The inhabitants around the white cliffs were to witness, first hand, dog fights and brutal naval engagements as the battle to overrun the country commenced. In the event of an invasion would Churchill’s stay behinds, the embedded clandestine Auxiliary Units, surface to wreak havoc in a dramatic last stand against overwhelming German forces? How would those in power deal with the almost inconceivable? What, if anything, would our US allies do to help? Some of the answers are laid out here in this excellent re-print, originally published in 1999.
I thoroughly recommend this thought provoking and well researched book. It cleverly documents the build up to a world changing event which thankfully never happened. This is one for your Christmas list.
Bismarck - 24 Hours to Doom
The Final Act in the Mission to Sink Bismarck
Author: Iain Ballantyne
Publisher: ipso books
Iain Ballantyne is the master of naval non-fiction, with several classic titles to his name like HMS Rodney, Strike from the Sea and my personal favourite, Hunter Killers. I’ve had the great pleasure of being sent the Amazon Kindle version of his new book ‘Bismarck - 24 Hours to Doom’, courtesy of ipso books. The quality and breadth of Iain’s research is very impressive and is dramatically played out through every page.
The shock and anger felt by Great Britain after the loss of battle cruiser HMS Hood ensured the British Admiralty would - without doubt - relentlessly pursue Bismarck to an agonising death. The hunt for the German raider resulted in one of the last great battleship versus battleship gun actions in modern British naval history. This is not the first account written about the last days of the Bismarck. What makes this book stand out from all the others is that the author narrates an almost minute by minute timeline, successfully combining archived documents with witness testimonies from both warring sides. Iain skilfully details the 24 hour period which would culminate in the final moments of KM Bismarck and her crew.
As the hunt intensified, signals were flying back and forth between warships of Royal Navy force H, the Admiralty and Churchill in the War Cabinet Rooms. I learnt much from reading the first hand accounts of German officers on board Bismarck and statements from the aircrew of the Swordfish aircraft which crippled her with a single torpedo to the rudder. I was totally unaware that U-Boat U74 had been tasked to rendezvous with Bismarck and pick up the war logs of Admiral Lütjens. In-fact, after Bismarck sank its revealed that U74 surfaced and rescued three Bismarck crewmen from the bitterly cold sea.
The tension I felt reading this fast paced book was palpable from the outset. I even found my-self feeling a degree of sadness towards the crew of Bismarck. Their vessel had been mercilessly pounded and continued to be - even though it was clear she was done for. More than 700 of her crew entered the water – most would die. British sailors received a signal to collect survivors. In the eyes of the Royal Navy seamen, the Kriegsmarine crew were just fellow sailors who wanted saving. I think Iain Ballantyne and ipso books have arrived at a great new format for the lovers of bite sized historical non-fiction. This 112 page book is condensed - by military book standards, but still manages to pack in tons of technical information, peppered with fantastic accounts from men who were there. This format is very readable and is one I wish to emulate for a future publication of my own. This great book is available as a paperback and eBook.
Bravo Zulu - I can highly recommend this book.
In a tribute to the heroism of the enemy, Admiral Tovey said “The Bismarck had put up a most gallant fight against impossible odds, worthy of the old days of the Imperial German Navy, and she went down with her colours still flying”.
The shock and anger felt by Great Britain after the loss of battle cruiser HMS Hood ensured the British Admiralty would - without doubt - relentlessly pursue Bismarck to an agonising death. The hunt for the German raider resulted in one of the last great battleship versus battleship gun actions in modern British naval history. This is not the first account written about the last days of the Bismarck. What makes this book stand out from all the others is that the author narrates an almost minute by minute timeline, successfully combining archived documents with witness testimonies from both warring sides. Iain skilfully details the 24 hour period which would culminate in the final moments of KM Bismarck and her crew.
As the hunt intensified, signals were flying back and forth between warships of Royal Navy force H, the Admiralty and Churchill in the War Cabinet Rooms. I learnt much from reading the first hand accounts of German officers on board Bismarck and statements from the aircrew of the Swordfish aircraft which crippled her with a single torpedo to the rudder. I was totally unaware that U-Boat U74 had been tasked to rendezvous with Bismarck and pick up the war logs of Admiral Lütjens. In-fact, after Bismarck sank its revealed that U74 surfaced and rescued three Bismarck crewmen from the bitterly cold sea.
The tension I felt reading this fast paced book was palpable from the outset. I even found my-self feeling a degree of sadness towards the crew of Bismarck. Their vessel had been mercilessly pounded and continued to be - even though it was clear she was done for. More than 700 of her crew entered the water – most would die. British sailors received a signal to collect survivors. In the eyes of the Royal Navy seamen, the Kriegsmarine crew were just fellow sailors who wanted saving. I think Iain Ballantyne and ipso books have arrived at a great new format for the lovers of bite sized historical non-fiction. This 112 page book is condensed - by military book standards, but still manages to pack in tons of technical information, peppered with fantastic accounts from men who were there. This format is very readable and is one I wish to emulate for a future publication of my own. This great book is available as a paperback and eBook.
Bravo Zulu - I can highly recommend this book.
In a tribute to the heroism of the enemy, Admiral Tovey said “The Bismarck had put up a most gallant fight against impossible odds, worthy of the old days of the Imperial German Navy, and she went down with her colours still flying”.
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @NavalAuthor
Follow Dave on Twitter @NavalAuthor
Battlefield Bombers - Deep Sea Attack
Author: Martin W. Bowman
Publisher: Pen & Sword Military Books
Martin W. Bowman, one of Britain’s foremost aviation historians, treads a familiar path and style with this book. The author offers a heady mix of operational information interwoven with personal narratives which highlight mans ingenuity and determination to succeed against the odds - be that to kill, or survive.
Battlefield Bombers Deep Sea Attack, published by Pen & Sword, details the nascent struggle of RAF Coastal Command. The book discusses the organisation, its aircrew and equipment and its greatest foe, the German Unterseeboote, in arguably the most important battle of World War Two - The Battle of the Atlantic. In addition, later in the war narrative, the author turns a Leigh-Light onto the operations of the Strike Wings. These patrols preyed upon Axis coastal shipping regularly transiting the Bay of Biscay from further afield.
There isn’t a singular timeline to follow, as such, but six. The six chapters of this book have their own timeline within the chapter headings, which when combined, deliver the essence and purpose of this book. Each chapter deals with definable Coastal Command arenas from air sea rescue to convoy escorts, from Strike Wings to Mosquito raids and from the battle of the south west approaches to the arrival of the much vaunted Liberator aircraft, amongst other technological and tactical improvements.
The ever changing equipment landscape is dutifully covered throughout. We see Coastal Command grow from a hodgepodge of second rate aircraft such as the Blenheim and Whitley, to a fully mission capable organisation flying some of the best Allied aircraft of World War Two, like the B24 Liberator, Beaufighter, Sunderland, Catalina and Mosquito. The technological advances such as the aforementioned Leigh-Light and airborne radar are duly noted and their impact upon the battlefield suitably acknowledged.
However, leaving the ‘big picture stuff’ aside, it is the personnel narratives which really enhance the authors work. These anecdotes help the reader become a passenger on missions, rather than a reader of dry words upon the page. We read how aircrew survived in open water after being shot down, by using their scabs or loose flesh as fish bait. Through confusion, firing a flare in the hope of rescue, only to find the rescuer was actually the planet Mars shining brightly, low on the horizon. We read how benign fishing fleets could be the cause of saviour or death and how black humour, known to all service personnel, was a source of great strength under the most trying of circumstances.
The book contains 32 pages of black and white photographs, some of which I’ve seen before, but not all. The author has included several diagrams and charts detailing Fortress Squadron operations and actions undertaken against U-boats by specific Coastal Command units. There is no bibliography, which is a shame, but each chapter is footnoted to allow readers further avenues of research or context.
Given that the book is only 200 pages in length it would be disingenuous to suggest that this is the summit concerning the historical narrative for RAF Coastal Command in World War Two. However, this book is no less worthy of shelf space than those which suggest they are.
Battlefield Bombers Deep Sea Attack, published by Pen & Sword, details the nascent struggle of RAF Coastal Command. The book discusses the organisation, its aircrew and equipment and its greatest foe, the German Unterseeboote, in arguably the most important battle of World War Two - The Battle of the Atlantic. In addition, later in the war narrative, the author turns a Leigh-Light onto the operations of the Strike Wings. These patrols preyed upon Axis coastal shipping regularly transiting the Bay of Biscay from further afield.
There isn’t a singular timeline to follow, as such, but six. The six chapters of this book have their own timeline within the chapter headings, which when combined, deliver the essence and purpose of this book. Each chapter deals with definable Coastal Command arenas from air sea rescue to convoy escorts, from Strike Wings to Mosquito raids and from the battle of the south west approaches to the arrival of the much vaunted Liberator aircraft, amongst other technological and tactical improvements.
The ever changing equipment landscape is dutifully covered throughout. We see Coastal Command grow from a hodgepodge of second rate aircraft such as the Blenheim and Whitley, to a fully mission capable organisation flying some of the best Allied aircraft of World War Two, like the B24 Liberator, Beaufighter, Sunderland, Catalina and Mosquito. The technological advances such as the aforementioned Leigh-Light and airborne radar are duly noted and their impact upon the battlefield suitably acknowledged.
However, leaving the ‘big picture stuff’ aside, it is the personnel narratives which really enhance the authors work. These anecdotes help the reader become a passenger on missions, rather than a reader of dry words upon the page. We read how aircrew survived in open water after being shot down, by using their scabs or loose flesh as fish bait. Through confusion, firing a flare in the hope of rescue, only to find the rescuer was actually the planet Mars shining brightly, low on the horizon. We read how benign fishing fleets could be the cause of saviour or death and how black humour, known to all service personnel, was a source of great strength under the most trying of circumstances.
The book contains 32 pages of black and white photographs, some of which I’ve seen before, but not all. The author has included several diagrams and charts detailing Fortress Squadron operations and actions undertaken against U-boats by specific Coastal Command units. There is no bibliography, which is a shame, but each chapter is footnoted to allow readers further avenues of research or context.
Given that the book is only 200 pages in length it would be disingenuous to suggest that this is the summit concerning the historical narrative for RAF Coastal Command in World War Two. However, this book is no less worthy of shelf space than those which suggest they are.
Reviewed by Andy Hill
Follow Andy on Twitter @theBookPeeper
Follow Andy on Twitter @theBookPeeper
Fighting Hitler From Dunkirk to D-Day
Authors: Jeff Haward (MM) & Neil Barber
Publisher: Pen & Sword Military Books
It was during a book signing at the War and Peace Revival 2015, that I had the immense pleasure of meeting military author Neil Barber and the inspiration for this book - his Uncle, Jeffery Haward (MM). I’ve had this book in my possession since July 2015. I thought the anniversary of the commencement of D-Day would be a fitting time to post my thoughts of this book. I therefore commend this review to you on 6 June 2016. Seventy two years after the biggest armed invasion in modern military history took place.
Fighting Hitler from Dunkirk to D-Day is exactly what Jeff Haward did. This book lets the reader inside the mind of a solider who was present at the forefront of several pivotal events, which without doubt shaped the successful outcome of the Second World War.
This book is firmly showcases the analytical research and subject matter expertise of Neil Barber, combined with the pin sharp memories and die hard wit of Jeff Haward. Prior to the outbreak of World War Two Jeff had joined the Territorial Army. All that was to change on 1 September 1939 with the general mobilisation of all reservists and territorial personnel. It was only a matter months before Jeff found himself part of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) on his way to France.
Neil Barber very cleverly layers his uncle’s story over the historical timeline, providing the reader with a good appreciation of events which were actually happening at the time. Another highlight of the book is the detail in which the authors recount the use of specific weapons of that era. For example the pro and cons of the Vickers machine gun are written about in detail. Jeff's account of his arrival on French soil, up to his evacuation from Dunkirk as part of Operation Dynamo, make for compelling reading. Jeff went on to fight in the arid desert of North Africa in the Second Battle of El Alamein, followed by seeing action at Sicily. Both these theatres of operations have been written about in detail by Neil in this excellently researched book.
After a short spell of home leave, Jeff was called forward, along with the rest of the 1/7th Middlesex Regiment, to take part in Operation Neptune and into Operation Overlord. It was 6 June 1944 - D-Day, Jeff and his comrades tentatively approached Sword Beach at Normandy. However, there was no room for their Landing Craft Tank (LTC) to beach. After a night in rough seas, dodging German shelling, it was decided they would land through the Canadian lines at Juno Beach. By this stage of the book I was completely drawn in. Neil Barber and Jeff Haward write a very open and honest narrative about events on D-Day. The book culminates when Jeff is demobilised after the war. There is a short chapter about Jeffs post-war life, followed by a heart warming chapter about his eventual return to Normandy in June 1994.
This is one of those rare books I could write and write about. I’ve edited my review and chopped it countless times. What should I leave in? What should I take out? The only real justice I can do it is to say…you must read this book!
Jeff Haward was destined to survive World War Two and destined to write this book - with the sterling help of his Nephew Neil Barbour – who I’m sure is very proud his uncle. As are we all.
Fighting Hitler from Dunkirk to D-Day is exactly what Jeff Haward did. This book lets the reader inside the mind of a solider who was present at the forefront of several pivotal events, which without doubt shaped the successful outcome of the Second World War.
This book is firmly showcases the analytical research and subject matter expertise of Neil Barber, combined with the pin sharp memories and die hard wit of Jeff Haward. Prior to the outbreak of World War Two Jeff had joined the Territorial Army. All that was to change on 1 September 1939 with the general mobilisation of all reservists and territorial personnel. It was only a matter months before Jeff found himself part of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) on his way to France.
Neil Barber very cleverly layers his uncle’s story over the historical timeline, providing the reader with a good appreciation of events which were actually happening at the time. Another highlight of the book is the detail in which the authors recount the use of specific weapons of that era. For example the pro and cons of the Vickers machine gun are written about in detail. Jeff's account of his arrival on French soil, up to his evacuation from Dunkirk as part of Operation Dynamo, make for compelling reading. Jeff went on to fight in the arid desert of North Africa in the Second Battle of El Alamein, followed by seeing action at Sicily. Both these theatres of operations have been written about in detail by Neil in this excellently researched book.
After a short spell of home leave, Jeff was called forward, along with the rest of the 1/7th Middlesex Regiment, to take part in Operation Neptune and into Operation Overlord. It was 6 June 1944 - D-Day, Jeff and his comrades tentatively approached Sword Beach at Normandy. However, there was no room for their Landing Craft Tank (LTC) to beach. After a night in rough seas, dodging German shelling, it was decided they would land through the Canadian lines at Juno Beach. By this stage of the book I was completely drawn in. Neil Barber and Jeff Haward write a very open and honest narrative about events on D-Day. The book culminates when Jeff is demobilised after the war. There is a short chapter about Jeffs post-war life, followed by a heart warming chapter about his eventual return to Normandy in June 1994.
This is one of those rare books I could write and write about. I’ve edited my review and chopped it countless times. What should I leave in? What should I take out? The only real justice I can do it is to say…you must read this book!
Jeff Haward was destined to survive World War Two and destined to write this book - with the sterling help of his Nephew Neil Barbour – who I’m sure is very proud his uncle. As are we all.
Meeting Jeff Haward (MM)
As with many of the World War Two veterans’ I have spoken with, they are all extremely modest about their actions. Jeff was awarded the Military Medal (MM). This type of medal was awarded to Warrant Officers, NCO’s and other ranks for gallantry in action against the enemy. Jeff Haward was awarded the Military Medal for two specific actions of bravery in particular. Below is a précis of Jeff actions.
On the 9th February 1945 Jeff Haward was part of a small reconnaissance party sent to reconnoitre enemy gun positions. Although exposed to heavy gun fire the party made several attempts to outflank the enemy positions. A member of Jeff’s party was hit by small arms fire. With total disregard for his own safety Jeff went forward to see if he could help his comrade. Unfortunately, the solider had been killed - instantly.
On 13th February 1945, Jeff Haward was in a defensive position with his machine gun platoon. The enemy launched a counter attack. Jeff’s party repulsed the enemy infantrymen with machine gun fire. They were then spotted by German tanks and subjected to heavy and continuous gun fire. Again, with entire disregard for his own safety, Jeff exposed his position to the enemy and moved himself from gun to gun, directing his comrade’s fire and providing vital encouragement. For these two acts of selflessness Jeff was awarded the Military Medal.
The last paragraph of his Military Medal citation reads:
"On these two occasions SGT Haward showed indifference to danger and powers of leadership beyond all normal calls of duty. His conduct not only was an outstanding example to all ranks, but undoubtedly was instrumental in saving lives of his own men".
Signed: B.L. Montgomery
If you would like to read Jeff Hawards full citation, it can be found in the National Archives: WO373/53
On the 9th February 1945 Jeff Haward was part of a small reconnaissance party sent to reconnoitre enemy gun positions. Although exposed to heavy gun fire the party made several attempts to outflank the enemy positions. A member of Jeff’s party was hit by small arms fire. With total disregard for his own safety Jeff went forward to see if he could help his comrade. Unfortunately, the solider had been killed - instantly.
On 13th February 1945, Jeff Haward was in a defensive position with his machine gun platoon. The enemy launched a counter attack. Jeff’s party repulsed the enemy infantrymen with machine gun fire. They were then spotted by German tanks and subjected to heavy and continuous gun fire. Again, with entire disregard for his own safety, Jeff exposed his position to the enemy and moved himself from gun to gun, directing his comrade’s fire and providing vital encouragement. For these two acts of selflessness Jeff was awarded the Military Medal.
The last paragraph of his Military Medal citation reads:
"On these two occasions SGT Haward showed indifference to danger and powers of leadership beyond all normal calls of duty. His conduct not only was an outstanding example to all ranks, but undoubtedly was instrumental in saving lives of his own men".
Signed: B.L. Montgomery
If you would like to read Jeff Hawards full citation, it can be found in the National Archives: WO373/53
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @NavalAuthor
Follow Dave on Twitter @NavalAuthor
Schindler's Krakow
Author: Andrew Rawson
Publisher: Pen & Sword Military Books
Welcome to my next review for Stand-Easy Military Books. Schindler's Krakow, published by Pen and Sword Military books, is an account of the invasion of Poland and its consequence on the citizens of Krakow, specifically the Jewish community. It’s 1 September 1939. Germany has just invaded Poland. What unfolds is a graphic account of the fall of Poland into the hands of Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. The Germans embarked on a regime of governing Poland by relying on fear, torture and murder to ensure the Polish people did not hamper the invading tide sweeping across Eastern Europe.
The author explains how the brutal governance and policing of Krakow was executed, while total control was always maintained. For instance, the regime governed by ensuring everyone earned bread by working. Any agitators were crushed with ruthless severity. One harrowing chapter is devoted to the various organizations which arrested, interrogated, and executed anyone failing to comply with the regimes draconian laws. At the same time all Jews living in Krakow were forced to move into the Podgorze ghetto.
The author provides an interesting and detailed explanation of the Polish underground and how it operated. Oskar Schindler's story is discussed in depth, along with revelations of how he attempted to help many of the Jewish people who worked for him. Schindler's Krakow has many pictures and illustrations and provides an in depth history of the city, from its occupation in 1939, to its eventual liberation in 1945.
The book concludes with the liberation of Krakow and then speeds forward in time by visiting the modern day city, the location of the ghetto and the Schindler Factory museum. The book contains a detailed map showing the ghetto's position and its layout, along with plans of the infamous Plaszow concentration camp.
A no holes barred book that gives the reader a very small insight into the pain and suffering of the Polish Jews during the occupation of Krakow - only fully known to those who were actually there.
The author explains how the brutal governance and policing of Krakow was executed, while total control was always maintained. For instance, the regime governed by ensuring everyone earned bread by working. Any agitators were crushed with ruthless severity. One harrowing chapter is devoted to the various organizations which arrested, interrogated, and executed anyone failing to comply with the regimes draconian laws. At the same time all Jews living in Krakow were forced to move into the Podgorze ghetto.
The author provides an interesting and detailed explanation of the Polish underground and how it operated. Oskar Schindler's story is discussed in depth, along with revelations of how he attempted to help many of the Jewish people who worked for him. Schindler's Krakow has many pictures and illustrations and provides an in depth history of the city, from its occupation in 1939, to its eventual liberation in 1945.
The book concludes with the liberation of Krakow and then speeds forward in time by visiting the modern day city, the location of the ghetto and the Schindler Factory museum. The book contains a detailed map showing the ghetto's position and its layout, along with plans of the infamous Plaszow concentration camp.
A no holes barred book that gives the reader a very small insight into the pain and suffering of the Polish Jews during the occupation of Krakow - only fully known to those who were actually there.
Reviewed by Dave Cooper
Follow Dave on Twitter @dccooper258
Follow Dave on Twitter @dccooper258
The BEF in France 1939 - 1940
Compiled by: John Grehan & Martin Mace
Publisher: Pen & Sword Military Books
Welcome to my latest review for Stand Easy Military Books.
My most recent read is another stunning hard back publication from Pen and Sword Military Books. The BEF in France 1939 to 1940 was introduced and compiled by John Grehan and Martin Mace. I had the pleasure of reviewing another book by these two authors a while ago and found it to be as equally well researched. This enlightening read discusses in detail, the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) landings in Northern France from 1939 through to their timely, if not chaotic, evacuation in 1940. The authors look at the force dispersion, its supply, defensive operations and eventual retreat.
This book goes on to lay out the efforts adopted by the BEF to integrate with French forces. This included reconnaissance, frontier control and intelligence gathering. The expeditionary force also had to contend with supervising the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and several other news agencies despatched to France to cover the war. I found it interesting to learn about the separate transportation of servicemen and equipment across the channel to France and then the need to marshal them all together on arrival. This was by no means a small undertaking and a great feat of logistics. The tonnage of stores alone required to service the BEF could often reach up to 100,000 tonnes a month.
As the German army advanced northwards the BEF were forced to make a hasty retreat, supported by the French army and failing Belgium forces. Hundreds of Allied vehicles and items of armour were lost, some succumbing to mechanical failure as well as war damage. Much of the equipment was simply - just left behind.
During the inevitable melee, lines of communication were lost and re-supply subsequently became increasingly difficult. Supplies of ready use ammunition became very limited. The Germans attempted to disrupt the evacuation by adopting unrelenting air attacks, laying air dropped mines and attacking shipping with fast motor torpedo boats. Over the course of their retreat the BEF were recorded as having destroyed over 500 bridges in an attempt to try and slow down the German advance. The BEF themselves also had problems moving en masse, as the roads were packed full of refugees also trying to get away from the advancing German war machine.
The authors discuss the hugely impressive and now legendary ‘Miracle of Dunkirk’ - the mobilisation of vessels of all sizes sent from Great Britain to assist in the evacuation. An estimated total of 330,000 servicemen were transported from Dunkirk to the safety of English shores. The book concludes with a concise narrative of Operation Dynamo. This book should be seen as a valuable reference for anyone interested in this fundamentally decisive part of the Second World War.
I highly recommend it.
My most recent read is another stunning hard back publication from Pen and Sword Military Books. The BEF in France 1939 to 1940 was introduced and compiled by John Grehan and Martin Mace. I had the pleasure of reviewing another book by these two authors a while ago and found it to be as equally well researched. This enlightening read discusses in detail, the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) landings in Northern France from 1939 through to their timely, if not chaotic, evacuation in 1940. The authors look at the force dispersion, its supply, defensive operations and eventual retreat.
This book goes on to lay out the efforts adopted by the BEF to integrate with French forces. This included reconnaissance, frontier control and intelligence gathering. The expeditionary force also had to contend with supervising the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and several other news agencies despatched to France to cover the war. I found it interesting to learn about the separate transportation of servicemen and equipment across the channel to France and then the need to marshal them all together on arrival. This was by no means a small undertaking and a great feat of logistics. The tonnage of stores alone required to service the BEF could often reach up to 100,000 tonnes a month.
As the German army advanced northwards the BEF were forced to make a hasty retreat, supported by the French army and failing Belgium forces. Hundreds of Allied vehicles and items of armour were lost, some succumbing to mechanical failure as well as war damage. Much of the equipment was simply - just left behind.
During the inevitable melee, lines of communication were lost and re-supply subsequently became increasingly difficult. Supplies of ready use ammunition became very limited. The Germans attempted to disrupt the evacuation by adopting unrelenting air attacks, laying air dropped mines and attacking shipping with fast motor torpedo boats. Over the course of their retreat the BEF were recorded as having destroyed over 500 bridges in an attempt to try and slow down the German advance. The BEF themselves also had problems moving en masse, as the roads were packed full of refugees also trying to get away from the advancing German war machine.
The authors discuss the hugely impressive and now legendary ‘Miracle of Dunkirk’ - the mobilisation of vessels of all sizes sent from Great Britain to assist in the evacuation. An estimated total of 330,000 servicemen were transported from Dunkirk to the safety of English shores. The book concludes with a concise narrative of Operation Dynamo. This book should be seen as a valuable reference for anyone interested in this fundamentally decisive part of the Second World War.
I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Andy Holcombe
Follow Andy on Twitter @WW2Ordnance
Follow Andy on Twitter @WW2Ordnance
Very Special Intelligence: The Story of the Admiralty's Operational Intelligence 1939 - 1945
Author: Patrick Beesly
Publisher: Seaforth Publishing
This paperback edition of ‘Very Special Intelligence’ has
been re-issued by Seaforth Publishing. The original book was written by Patrick
Beesly and published by Hamish Hamilton in 1977.
Patrick Beesly served in the British Naval Intelligence
Division (NID) of the Admiralty, in the Operational Intelligence Centre (OIC)
from 1940-1945. ‘Very Special Intelligence’ was Beesly’s first book, which was followed
by Very Special Admiral: A Biography of Admiral John Henry Godfrey in 1980 and
then Room 40: An account of Naval Intelligence during World War One, written in
1982.
I have always been interested in the story of the Admiralty’s Operational Intelligence Centre. It was a joy to receive this book from Pen and Sword for review. This 289 page edition covers many of the major Naval events in World War Two which you may have heard of and probably an equal number of which you will be totally unaware. The allure of this book and the high esteem in which it is held by Naval historians, goes a long way to explain why it was re-printed in 2000 and again 2006. For the books re-print in 2000 a fantastic introduction was written by Naval historian and author W.J.R. Gardner. This thirteen page foreword cleverly brings Beesly’s thirty eight year old book up to date.
Beesly wrote ‘Very Special Intelligence’ at a time when the general public’s knowledge of Ultra intelligence was virtually nil. It is important the reader digests this book with the benefit of hindsight. Obviously, in 1977 the author was very restricted in what he could say about Ultra. Many clandestine events alluded to in this book have since been exposed. A large amount Ultra secrets have now been revealed, especially after the declassification and release of mountains of highly sensitive Ultra intelligence over the intervening decades. However, the restrictions imposed on the author in 1977 do not detract from the importance of this book as a historical portrayal, highlighting the internal workings of British Naval intelligence in World War Two.
It’s really interesting to read how, with the help of Bletchley Park, the Admiralty was kept very well informed of the movements and intentions of the enemy. Personally, I was totally unaware of the vast amount of principal ciphers types used by the German military. This fantastic book details thirteen of them. For instance, TETIS: The cipher used by training U-boats in the Baltic and SUD: The cipher used by surface ships in the Mediterranean and Black Seas.
This story of the Admiralty’s OIC between 1939 and 1945 is immensely intriguing. Within the pages of this timely re-issued book, the reader will discover that even in 1977 - thirty two years after the end of World War Two - the methods used to collate and decrypt this very special intelligence was still not completely revealed to an oblivious post war nation.
A great British read!
I have always been interested in the story of the Admiralty’s Operational Intelligence Centre. It was a joy to receive this book from Pen and Sword for review. This 289 page edition covers many of the major Naval events in World War Two which you may have heard of and probably an equal number of which you will be totally unaware. The allure of this book and the high esteem in which it is held by Naval historians, goes a long way to explain why it was re-printed in 2000 and again 2006. For the books re-print in 2000 a fantastic introduction was written by Naval historian and author W.J.R. Gardner. This thirteen page foreword cleverly brings Beesly’s thirty eight year old book up to date.
Beesly wrote ‘Very Special Intelligence’ at a time when the general public’s knowledge of Ultra intelligence was virtually nil. It is important the reader digests this book with the benefit of hindsight. Obviously, in 1977 the author was very restricted in what he could say about Ultra. Many clandestine events alluded to in this book have since been exposed. A large amount Ultra secrets have now been revealed, especially after the declassification and release of mountains of highly sensitive Ultra intelligence over the intervening decades. However, the restrictions imposed on the author in 1977 do not detract from the importance of this book as a historical portrayal, highlighting the internal workings of British Naval intelligence in World War Two.
It’s really interesting to read how, with the help of Bletchley Park, the Admiralty was kept very well informed of the movements and intentions of the enemy. Personally, I was totally unaware of the vast amount of principal ciphers types used by the German military. This fantastic book details thirteen of them. For instance, TETIS: The cipher used by training U-boats in the Baltic and SUD: The cipher used by surface ships in the Mediterranean and Black Seas.
This story of the Admiralty’s OIC between 1939 and 1945 is immensely intriguing. Within the pages of this timely re-issued book, the reader will discover that even in 1977 - thirty two years after the end of World War Two - the methods used to collate and decrypt this very special intelligence was still not completely revealed to an oblivious post war nation.
A great British read!
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Luftwaffe X-Planes: German Experimental Aircraft of World War II
Author: Manfred Griehl
Publisher: Frontline Books
Welcome to
another review for Pen and Sword by Stand-Easy Military Books.
This picture packed hardback was compiled and written by Manfred Griehl and published by Frontline Books.
Manfred Griehl is regarded as an expert in aviation history. Through this book Griehl explains in fine detail how several prototype aircraft were tested and evaluated by the Luftwaffe – in total secrecy. Interestingly, these tests started to take place as far back as the end of World War One. Permission for testing prototypes was supposed to have been sought from the conquering Allied authorities but these requests rarely materialised. As the book reveals, many of the new aircraft designs were secretly tested in places such as neutral Switzerland, Sweden, Italy, and Denmark and as far as the USSR.
Contained within this great book is a very concise timeline detailing how, where and when new aircraft were tested and evaluated. From the end of World War One and traveling through the 1920s and 1930s, the author explains how the German experimental aircraft programme rapidly grew and soon established itself at a huge evaluation site located at an airfield near Ellerholz in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany. The town’s airport would have a long history as the Luftwaffe’s main testing ground for experimental aircraft.
This book is full of rare images which the author has obviously researched very thoroughly. He gives a full explanation of each and every photograph. The book includes comprehensive profiles of each Luftwaffe X-Plane, as well as a year by year account of the building and testing of all the prototype aircraft and their variants. Profiles also include already established Luftwaffe aircraft, from its formation in 1935. The author explains how many of these fledgling aircraft failed to make it past the test phase, owing to the war drawing to a close and time running out.
Both appendixes are crammed full of information. Appendix one is comprised of full lists showing manufacturers, aircraft types, call signs, and works numbers. Each aircraft is complemented with a date and place of test followed by the name of the test pilot. The appendix concludes with remarks detailing how the subject aircraft performed on its inaugural test flights. Appendix two follows on with a list of Luftwaffe evaluation units and which type of aircraft or system they evaluated.
Over the intervening years it has been well documented that German ingenuity was at the forefront of rocket and modern aviation innovation. Many of the skilled German engineers and technicians undoubtedly helped shape several black projects which were undertaken by the USA and USSR post war.
I fully recommend this book to all aviation enthusiasts. ‘Luftwaffe X-Planes’ is a very interesting read and an excellent insight into the Third Reich’s secret aircraft designs. Had the German war machine not run out of time, it is very possible the outcomes of World War Two may have been significantly different.
For a chance to win a copy of this book, just visit our Competition Page.
This picture packed hardback was compiled and written by Manfred Griehl and published by Frontline Books.
Manfred Griehl is regarded as an expert in aviation history. Through this book Griehl explains in fine detail how several prototype aircraft were tested and evaluated by the Luftwaffe – in total secrecy. Interestingly, these tests started to take place as far back as the end of World War One. Permission for testing prototypes was supposed to have been sought from the conquering Allied authorities but these requests rarely materialised. As the book reveals, many of the new aircraft designs were secretly tested in places such as neutral Switzerland, Sweden, Italy, and Denmark and as far as the USSR.
Contained within this great book is a very concise timeline detailing how, where and when new aircraft were tested and evaluated. From the end of World War One and traveling through the 1920s and 1930s, the author explains how the German experimental aircraft programme rapidly grew and soon established itself at a huge evaluation site located at an airfield near Ellerholz in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany. The town’s airport would have a long history as the Luftwaffe’s main testing ground for experimental aircraft.
This book is full of rare images which the author has obviously researched very thoroughly. He gives a full explanation of each and every photograph. The book includes comprehensive profiles of each Luftwaffe X-Plane, as well as a year by year account of the building and testing of all the prototype aircraft and their variants. Profiles also include already established Luftwaffe aircraft, from its formation in 1935. The author explains how many of these fledgling aircraft failed to make it past the test phase, owing to the war drawing to a close and time running out.
Both appendixes are crammed full of information. Appendix one is comprised of full lists showing manufacturers, aircraft types, call signs, and works numbers. Each aircraft is complemented with a date and place of test followed by the name of the test pilot. The appendix concludes with remarks detailing how the subject aircraft performed on its inaugural test flights. Appendix two follows on with a list of Luftwaffe evaluation units and which type of aircraft or system they evaluated.
Over the intervening years it has been well documented that German ingenuity was at the forefront of rocket and modern aviation innovation. Many of the skilled German engineers and technicians undoubtedly helped shape several black projects which were undertaken by the USA and USSR post war.
I fully recommend this book to all aviation enthusiasts. ‘Luftwaffe X-Planes’ is a very interesting read and an excellent insight into the Third Reich’s secret aircraft designs. Had the German war machine not run out of time, it is very possible the outcomes of World War Two may have been significantly different.
For a chance to win a copy of this book, just visit our Competition Page.
Reviewed by Dave Cooper
Follow Dave on Twitter @dccooper258
Follow Dave on Twitter @dccooper258
World War II US Navy Special Warfare Units
Author: Eugene Liptak
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Welcome to my latest review for Stand-Easy Military
Books.
For this review I have had the pleasure of reading ‘World War II US Navy Special Warfare Units’ by Eugene Liptak from Osprey Publishing. This 64 page paperback was published in 2014 and is crammed full of information, as well Illustrations by Johnny Shumate, mixed with a collection of great period photographs.
From the inception of the ‘US Navy Special Warfare Units' through to the wars end, this meticulously researched book sheds light on this small but vital corner of US Naval warfare. The story begins with the ‘Amphibious Scouts & Raiders School’ located at Little Creek Virginia in July of 1942. This unit was set up jointly by the US Army & Navy to form groups of highly trained men who were able to alight from small craft and submarines. Their roles would be to reconnoitre areas of interest, like beachheads and landing zones, as well as any defences. The units would be looking for obstacles that could delay or endanger any action. The scope of this book not only covers US operations in the Pacific, but also includes joint operations with the Royal Navy, in particular making way for the D-Day landings on Omaha Beach.
A bonus for me was the inclusion of several original photographs, which I had not seen before. These interesting photographs show the assembly of weapons and tasks undertaken. For example, the assembly and setting of demolition charges used to clear beach defences. Also shown are pictures of the personal kit each man was issued to complete his work. The amount of new & cutting edge equipment that was issued to these units goes to show just how important their contribution to the war effort really was considered. Equipment like dummy soldiers, used to float in the water and charges to simulate a mixed barrage of rocket and gunfire. This subterfuge was designed to dupe the enemy into thinking a landing was taking place in a certain area.
The footprint of the ‘Special Warfare Units’ stretched far and wide. In the few years since its conception units had operated in World War Two from Normandy to the Pacific and as far as China. Their actions were diverse and would often involve operations like training foreign troops to setting up listening posts, amongst the other tasks already discussed here.
I would highly recommend this book. It's a great read and one you can keep returning to for an in-depth and very well researched look at these specialised Naval units. A perfect book for anyone interested specialised operations and of US Naval warfare during World War Two.
For this review I have had the pleasure of reading ‘World War II US Navy Special Warfare Units’ by Eugene Liptak from Osprey Publishing. This 64 page paperback was published in 2014 and is crammed full of information, as well Illustrations by Johnny Shumate, mixed with a collection of great period photographs.
From the inception of the ‘US Navy Special Warfare Units' through to the wars end, this meticulously researched book sheds light on this small but vital corner of US Naval warfare. The story begins with the ‘Amphibious Scouts & Raiders School’ located at Little Creek Virginia in July of 1942. This unit was set up jointly by the US Army & Navy to form groups of highly trained men who were able to alight from small craft and submarines. Their roles would be to reconnoitre areas of interest, like beachheads and landing zones, as well as any defences. The units would be looking for obstacles that could delay or endanger any action. The scope of this book not only covers US operations in the Pacific, but also includes joint operations with the Royal Navy, in particular making way for the D-Day landings on Omaha Beach.
A bonus for me was the inclusion of several original photographs, which I had not seen before. These interesting photographs show the assembly of weapons and tasks undertaken. For example, the assembly and setting of demolition charges used to clear beach defences. Also shown are pictures of the personal kit each man was issued to complete his work. The amount of new & cutting edge equipment that was issued to these units goes to show just how important their contribution to the war effort really was considered. Equipment like dummy soldiers, used to float in the water and charges to simulate a mixed barrage of rocket and gunfire. This subterfuge was designed to dupe the enemy into thinking a landing was taking place in a certain area.
The footprint of the ‘Special Warfare Units’ stretched far and wide. In the few years since its conception units had operated in World War Two from Normandy to the Pacific and as far as China. Their actions were diverse and would often involve operations like training foreign troops to setting up listening posts, amongst the other tasks already discussed here.
I would highly recommend this book. It's a great read and one you can keep returning to for an in-depth and very well researched look at these specialised Naval units. A perfect book for anyone interested specialised operations and of US Naval warfare during World War Two.
Reviewed by Andy Holcombe
Follow Andy on Twitter @WW2Ordnance
Follow Andy on Twitter @WW2Ordnance
The Norway Campaign and the Rise of Churchill 1940
Author: Anthony Dix
Publisher: Pen & Sword
Welcome to
another review for Pen and Sword by Stand-Easy Military Books.
It's clear to see that ‘The Norway Campaign and the Rise of Churchill 1940’ has been extensively researched by author Anthony Dix. This book provides the reader with a fascinating insight into the events surrounding the opening chapter of World War Two. The author claims Winston Churchill was not only a brilliant leader, but before becoming the leader he needed to be, he was also a very insightful Member of Parliament. Churchill warned the nation that it needed to be prepared for a rising Adolf Hitler.
The book opens with detailed maps of Norway and Scandinavia. Dix then offers the reader a layman’s guide to the British Government, listing its main players and their roles in the years leading up to the start of World War Two. Churchill was made First Lord of the Admiralty again in 1939. He threw himself whole heartedly into the task of ensuring the Royal Navy could operate to its fullest ability.
The book highlights the three phases of the Norway campaign; the deployment of troops in support of the Norwegians, the evacuation from central Norway and the campaign in the north. The author covers aspects of armed operations in Norway supported by concise details of the Tri Service units deployed in theatre and their effective roles within the campaign. Within the background text the author explains the intense political wrangling inside the British Government and writes in depth about the then Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s resignation. Wrangling and political manoeuvring which would ultimately see Churchill accept the appointment of Prime Minister.
A well-appointed appendix gives a good overview of the composition within the House of Commons in the late 1930's. Also included are notes on Scandinavian history, the relative Naval strength and Norwegian Navy and Military Intelligence. A comparison of losses during the campaign on both sides is listed. The appendix concludes with details about ‘Notraship’ (Norwegian Shipping and Trade Mission). The Norway Campaign and the Rise of Churchill 1940 is topped off with a very extensive bibliography providing source information for each chapter.
I found this book to be a really informative and enjoyable read. It provides a valuable insight into the dawn of World War Two and the events that surrounded the shaping of the Churchill’s war winning Government.
It's clear to see that ‘The Norway Campaign and the Rise of Churchill 1940’ has been extensively researched by author Anthony Dix. This book provides the reader with a fascinating insight into the events surrounding the opening chapter of World War Two. The author claims Winston Churchill was not only a brilliant leader, but before becoming the leader he needed to be, he was also a very insightful Member of Parliament. Churchill warned the nation that it needed to be prepared for a rising Adolf Hitler.
The book opens with detailed maps of Norway and Scandinavia. Dix then offers the reader a layman’s guide to the British Government, listing its main players and their roles in the years leading up to the start of World War Two. Churchill was made First Lord of the Admiralty again in 1939. He threw himself whole heartedly into the task of ensuring the Royal Navy could operate to its fullest ability.
The book highlights the three phases of the Norway campaign; the deployment of troops in support of the Norwegians, the evacuation from central Norway and the campaign in the north. The author covers aspects of armed operations in Norway supported by concise details of the Tri Service units deployed in theatre and their effective roles within the campaign. Within the background text the author explains the intense political wrangling inside the British Government and writes in depth about the then Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s resignation. Wrangling and political manoeuvring which would ultimately see Churchill accept the appointment of Prime Minister.
A well-appointed appendix gives a good overview of the composition within the House of Commons in the late 1930's. Also included are notes on Scandinavian history, the relative Naval strength and Norwegian Navy and Military Intelligence. A comparison of losses during the campaign on both sides is listed. The appendix concludes with details about ‘Notraship’ (Norwegian Shipping and Trade Mission). The Norway Campaign and the Rise of Churchill 1940 is topped off with a very extensive bibliography providing source information for each chapter.
I found this book to be a really informative and enjoyable read. It provides a valuable insight into the dawn of World War Two and the events that surrounded the shaping of the Churchill’s war winning Government.
Reviewed by Dave Cooper
Follow Dave on Twitter @dccooper258
Follow Dave on Twitter @dccooper258
The History of the British U-Class Submarine
Author: Derek Walters
Sold by: Maritime Books
Publisher: Pen & Sword
This is Stand-Easy Publishing's first book
review for Maritime Books. Maritime are specialist publishers of books on the Royal
Navy. They stock a vast range of naval books and
videos from several well known military publishers, at great prices. The History of the British U-Class
Submarine by Derek Walters is published by Pen and Sword. This book is a real
treat for enthusiasts’ interested in British submarines of World War Two. Not
only does the book cover details of individual submarines, it also has a
chapter on the special operations which this class of submarine were often
involved in. Needless to say I was completely hooked after the first page. The
author has clearly researched this class of submarine in-depth and starts by furnishing the
reader with details of the first three boats of this class.
The author writes about the rigorous sea trials the early Unity-Class boats underwent – trials in which they performed well and demonstrated excellent handling and manoeuvrability. In a time of austerity these submarines proved to be cost-effective and relatively easy to produce. All U-Class submarines measured around the same length, 190 feet or approximately 58 metres. The fact that this class of submarine could perform well in theatres of operation surrounded by shallow waters, combined with the inevitability of war, prompted the Admiralty to put this submarine type into quantity production. Initially twelve submarines of this class were ordered without delay. This book also is packed with 16 black and white photographs, many of which were unpublished until now.
Derek Walters, transits seamlessly through the developmental concepts of the U-Class submarine, which did not change much from the original design. Drawing on information collected from multiple archive sources the author has stitched together a book which provides researchers and historians with an accurate timeline of this class of submarine. During the 1940-41 war programmes, 41 submarines were ordered, of which only 34 were ever completed. The reader learns that the limited offensive potential of this class of submarine was compensated for by the high rate of production, with a large number of boats commissioned within a short time frame. Forty-nine submarines of this type were eventually commissioned in the Royal Navy, all but two having been built in Barrow by Vickers. During World War Two, the U-Class submarine went on to prove that, owing to its size, it was ideal for operations in the North Sea and the shallow waters of the Mediterranean. This book is complemented with three appendixes. Two of the appendixes detail the types of medals and honours awarded to both British and Allied U-Class submariners during World War Two. The final appendix lists the U-Class submarine pennant numbers.
By the end of the war a total of 19 U-Class boats would be lost on active service. Action in the Mediterranean would claim 13 and the Atlantic and North Sea would add another 6 boats to that deadly count. The whereabouts of several U-Class submarines is still unknown today. If you want to learn more about the most operationally effective submarine in British World War Two history, then is book is for you. Dive - Dive - Dive!
For further reading on the subject of U-Class submarines, why not try ‘Being Silent They Speak’ The story of the World War Two submarine HMS/M Unbeaten.
For a chance to win a copy of this book, courtesy of Maritime Books, enter our competition here!
The author writes about the rigorous sea trials the early Unity-Class boats underwent – trials in which they performed well and demonstrated excellent handling and manoeuvrability. In a time of austerity these submarines proved to be cost-effective and relatively easy to produce. All U-Class submarines measured around the same length, 190 feet or approximately 58 metres. The fact that this class of submarine could perform well in theatres of operation surrounded by shallow waters, combined with the inevitability of war, prompted the Admiralty to put this submarine type into quantity production. Initially twelve submarines of this class were ordered without delay. This book also is packed with 16 black and white photographs, many of which were unpublished until now.
Derek Walters, transits seamlessly through the developmental concepts of the U-Class submarine, which did not change much from the original design. Drawing on information collected from multiple archive sources the author has stitched together a book which provides researchers and historians with an accurate timeline of this class of submarine. During the 1940-41 war programmes, 41 submarines were ordered, of which only 34 were ever completed. The reader learns that the limited offensive potential of this class of submarine was compensated for by the high rate of production, with a large number of boats commissioned within a short time frame. Forty-nine submarines of this type were eventually commissioned in the Royal Navy, all but two having been built in Barrow by Vickers. During World War Two, the U-Class submarine went on to prove that, owing to its size, it was ideal for operations in the North Sea and the shallow waters of the Mediterranean. This book is complemented with three appendixes. Two of the appendixes detail the types of medals and honours awarded to both British and Allied U-Class submariners during World War Two. The final appendix lists the U-Class submarine pennant numbers.
By the end of the war a total of 19 U-Class boats would be lost on active service. Action in the Mediterranean would claim 13 and the Atlantic and North Sea would add another 6 boats to that deadly count. The whereabouts of several U-Class submarines is still unknown today. If you want to learn more about the most operationally effective submarine in British World War Two history, then is book is for you. Dive - Dive - Dive!
For further reading on the subject of U-Class submarines, why not try ‘Being Silent They Speak’ The story of the World War Two submarine HMS/M Unbeaten.
For a chance to win a copy of this book, courtesy of Maritime Books, enter our competition here!
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
US Heavy Cruisers 1943-75
Author: Mark Stille
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Here at Stand-Easy Military Books we're pleased to have been asked to review this title for our friends at Osprey Publishing. In my own library I have several great books
published by Osprey. The USP of their ‘New Vanguard' series is the unrivalled detail
contained within each information packed edition.
Author Mark Stille is a leading expert on the subject of US naval history. This 48 page book titled ‘US Heavy Cruisers 1943-75’ covers the four wartime and post war class of US Navy Heavy Cruiser. In a nutshell, this book is a condensed lexicon of US military seafaring might. The four heavy cruisers classes, Baltimore, Alaska, Oregon City and Des Moines are individually described in build order. This book is packed with original photographs and illustrated pictures by Paul Wright. Each class is supported with a colour illustration showing port, starboard and aerial views. The specific ships are named along with details of their service history, including dates of when they were laid down, launched and commissioned.
The author writes about the changing roles of the US heavy cruiser between 1943 and 1975 and covers details of the wartime and post war modifications of each vessel type. US heavy cruiser weaponry and RADAR is included and supported by individual tables showing operational capabilities, along with full colour cutaway artwork. For anyone interested in theses types of vessel, or for a military researcher, this book is a must have. ‘US Heavy Cruisers 1943-75’ is complimented with a concise index and culminates in a final page showing other related titles.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reviewing the other titles in this fantastic series.
Author Mark Stille is a leading expert on the subject of US naval history. This 48 page book titled ‘US Heavy Cruisers 1943-75’ covers the four wartime and post war class of US Navy Heavy Cruiser. In a nutshell, this book is a condensed lexicon of US military seafaring might. The four heavy cruisers classes, Baltimore, Alaska, Oregon City and Des Moines are individually described in build order. This book is packed with original photographs and illustrated pictures by Paul Wright. Each class is supported with a colour illustration showing port, starboard and aerial views. The specific ships are named along with details of their service history, including dates of when they were laid down, launched and commissioned.
The author writes about the changing roles of the US heavy cruiser between 1943 and 1975 and covers details of the wartime and post war modifications of each vessel type. US heavy cruiser weaponry and RADAR is included and supported by individual tables showing operational capabilities, along with full colour cutaway artwork. For anyone interested in theses types of vessel, or for a military researcher, this book is a must have. ‘US Heavy Cruisers 1943-75’ is complimented with a concise index and culminates in a final page showing other related titles.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reviewing the other titles in this fantastic series.
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
German U-Boat Losses During World War II - Details of Destruction
Author: Axel Niestlé
Publisher: Pen & Sword
As readers of my books will know, I’m massively interested
in Allied and Axis submarine warfare during World War Two. So with that in
mind, it was an absolute delight to be given a chance to review a copy of `German U-Boat Losses During World War II -
Details of Destruction’ By Axel Niestlé. This hardback edition is a Frontline Book and a military history imprint of Pen & Sword Books.
For the past decade or more, the author has been the go to guy for military researchers and TV production companies wanting to know specific historical data relating to World War Two German U-boats. Researcher, Axel Niestlé, has built up an excellent network of U-boat subject matter experts from all over the World. Such as Herbert Ritschel, Eric Zimmermann and Britain’s own Innes McCartney, to name a few. An early pioneer in the cataloguing of German U-boat losses was Dr Jürgen Rohwer. It is also great to see that the author has doffed his cap to Dr Rohwer and several other notable names when writing this book. These SME’s have undoubtedly bolstered his already innate knowledge of German U-boats, and have assisted him greatly when compiling the details of losses contained within this book. I purchased the first edition, of the same title, back in 1998 and found that book invaluable for research purposes. This new 305 page second edition picks up where the first book left off. New wreck discoveries and a meticulous re-assessment of the Kreigsmarine unterseeboote logs, and other related documentation, have exposed new information which has influenced the validity of several previously reported U-boat losses.
The author has clearly worked tirelessly, over several years, to bring to fruition a near definitive compilation of U-boat losses during World War Two. In most cases he reveals the cause and events surrounding their individual destruction. However, as Axel admits in the preface to this second edition, `there are still sixty-three boats at present which are recorded as missing or whose final fate has not been fully ascertained’. The concise information the author has pulled together from many sources is laid out in an easy to decipher format. This book combines a well-researched loss register along with a list of U-boat numbers and types. Also included are the names of the shipyards' where they were built and even their individual yard numbers. The book has a cracking four part appendix which provides a chronological list of losses and a tabular monthly overview on the cause of loss. The distribution of German U-boats on 8 May 1945 is highlighted, including information detailing the submarines that surrendered or were captured by Allied forces at the end of the war. Several worldwide charts showing U-boat loss positions are included along with thirty two fantastic black and white illustrations.
The book is rounded off with a very useful four part index providing a list of U-boat Commanders, Allied and Axis Commanding officers and pilots, ships and air force units. With the exception of the lost U-boats still waiting to be discovered, this book should be seen as a definitive body of work. I predict this book will remain extant for many years. I hope that one day British submarines lost in World War Two will also receive the same intense scrutiny. Many British submarines are still on patrol today with no known location recorded or cause of loss.
`German U-Boat Losses During World War II - Details of Destruction’ is a fantastic and invaluable book for a U-boat researcher. I believe the in-depth information contained within this edition leaves little or no room for another book to be written on the same subject.
It’s all here in one magnificent volume.
For the past decade or more, the author has been the go to guy for military researchers and TV production companies wanting to know specific historical data relating to World War Two German U-boats. Researcher, Axel Niestlé, has built up an excellent network of U-boat subject matter experts from all over the World. Such as Herbert Ritschel, Eric Zimmermann and Britain’s own Innes McCartney, to name a few. An early pioneer in the cataloguing of German U-boat losses was Dr Jürgen Rohwer. It is also great to see that the author has doffed his cap to Dr Rohwer and several other notable names when writing this book. These SME’s have undoubtedly bolstered his already innate knowledge of German U-boats, and have assisted him greatly when compiling the details of losses contained within this book. I purchased the first edition, of the same title, back in 1998 and found that book invaluable for research purposes. This new 305 page second edition picks up where the first book left off. New wreck discoveries and a meticulous re-assessment of the Kreigsmarine unterseeboote logs, and other related documentation, have exposed new information which has influenced the validity of several previously reported U-boat losses.
The author has clearly worked tirelessly, over several years, to bring to fruition a near definitive compilation of U-boat losses during World War Two. In most cases he reveals the cause and events surrounding their individual destruction. However, as Axel admits in the preface to this second edition, `there are still sixty-three boats at present which are recorded as missing or whose final fate has not been fully ascertained’. The concise information the author has pulled together from many sources is laid out in an easy to decipher format. This book combines a well-researched loss register along with a list of U-boat numbers and types. Also included are the names of the shipyards' where they were built and even their individual yard numbers. The book has a cracking four part appendix which provides a chronological list of losses and a tabular monthly overview on the cause of loss. The distribution of German U-boats on 8 May 1945 is highlighted, including information detailing the submarines that surrendered or were captured by Allied forces at the end of the war. Several worldwide charts showing U-boat loss positions are included along with thirty two fantastic black and white illustrations.
The book is rounded off with a very useful four part index providing a list of U-boat Commanders, Allied and Axis Commanding officers and pilots, ships and air force units. With the exception of the lost U-boats still waiting to be discovered, this book should be seen as a definitive body of work. I predict this book will remain extant for many years. I hope that one day British submarines lost in World War Two will also receive the same intense scrutiny. Many British submarines are still on patrol today with no known location recorded or cause of loss.
`German U-Boat Losses During World War II - Details of Destruction’ is a fantastic and invaluable book for a U-boat researcher. I believe the in-depth information contained within this edition leaves little or no room for another book to be written on the same subject.
It’s all here in one magnificent volume.
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Aircraft Salvage in the Battle of Britain and the Blitz
Author: Andy Saunders
Publisher: Pen & Sword
It was probably the dream of every child, who today would be an adult of a certain age, to have discovered a long forgotten crashed World War Two aircraft. If you have a real interest in aircraft wrecks from the last war then ‘Aircraft Salvage in the Battle of Britain and the Blitz’ is the book for you. What a treat it was for me to receive this photograph packed book, for review, from the kind people at Pen & Sword Military Books.
The author, Andy Saunders, is a prolific military history writer and TV/magazine contributor with a specific interest in historic aviation. More recently Andy has been appointed as the new editor of ‘Britain at War magazine'. For this cracking book Andy has provided many original photographs from his own personnel collection and reveals a fantastic archive of rare military aircraft photographs gifted to him, along with other pertinent documents collected by Mr Arthur Nicholls. Arthur’s vehicles were actually used to transport the mangled remains of many downed aircraft during World War Two. The acknowledgement page of this book reads like a veritable who’s who of military history and aviation authors, with names like Chris Goss and Martin Mace to name a few. Contributions from this rouges gallery of aviation and World War Two enthusiasts has ensured the production of a very well informed book.
Not only has the author detailed many of the aircraft crash site locations in Great Britain from between 1939-1945, he also provides photographs of the aircraft wreckage and profiles of the aircrew. Many of the original photographs are complemented with background stories pertaining to the image. It’s refreshing to see an author talk about the little known RAF Maintenance Units which were located around the country and comprised of military and civilian staff. It was the role of the MU’s to locate and dismantle downed aircraft on British shores. The author explains that many of the serviceable Luftwaffe aircraft parts were salvaged. Some of the more interesting items of equipment were sent away for examination by intelligence annalists’ who were always looking for new advances in German technology. Other less interesting parts, found to be in serviceable condition, were reused and re-fitted to a motley flight of intact, captured, Luftwaffe aircraft which toured Great Britain. The ex-Luftwaffe aircraft were flown by an RAF flight who were dubbed the RAFWAF. Parts that were un-salvageable were sent to scrap yards and ultimately melted down and reused to support the war effort. Several RAF and Allied aircraft which crashed in Great Britain are also mentioned in this book.
This fantastic paperback from Pen & Sword’s own ‘Images of War’ series boasts 164 black and white photographs. Having researched several crashed Allied and Luftwaffe aircraft in the past I was pleased to notice that I had not come across the majority of these images in any other publications. This book opened my eyes on several levels. For instance, I was amazed to discover that Great Britain had, in November 1940, been attacked by Italian bi-planes in a daring mass daylight raid on Harwich. The photographic proof of a downed Fiat bi-plane on British soil exists within the pages of this book.
This is a well documented photographic portrayal, detailing a plethora of aircraft shot down and salvaged in Great Britain during World War Two. This book is especially good for military researchers and aviation enthusiasts alike.
I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The author, Andy Saunders, is a prolific military history writer and TV/magazine contributor with a specific interest in historic aviation. More recently Andy has been appointed as the new editor of ‘Britain at War magazine'. For this cracking book Andy has provided many original photographs from his own personnel collection and reveals a fantastic archive of rare military aircraft photographs gifted to him, along with other pertinent documents collected by Mr Arthur Nicholls. Arthur’s vehicles were actually used to transport the mangled remains of many downed aircraft during World War Two. The acknowledgement page of this book reads like a veritable who’s who of military history and aviation authors, with names like Chris Goss and Martin Mace to name a few. Contributions from this rouges gallery of aviation and World War Two enthusiasts has ensured the production of a very well informed book.
Not only has the author detailed many of the aircraft crash site locations in Great Britain from between 1939-1945, he also provides photographs of the aircraft wreckage and profiles of the aircrew. Many of the original photographs are complemented with background stories pertaining to the image. It’s refreshing to see an author talk about the little known RAF Maintenance Units which were located around the country and comprised of military and civilian staff. It was the role of the MU’s to locate and dismantle downed aircraft on British shores. The author explains that many of the serviceable Luftwaffe aircraft parts were salvaged. Some of the more interesting items of equipment were sent away for examination by intelligence annalists’ who were always looking for new advances in German technology. Other less interesting parts, found to be in serviceable condition, were reused and re-fitted to a motley flight of intact, captured, Luftwaffe aircraft which toured Great Britain. The ex-Luftwaffe aircraft were flown by an RAF flight who were dubbed the RAFWAF. Parts that were un-salvageable were sent to scrap yards and ultimately melted down and reused to support the war effort. Several RAF and Allied aircraft which crashed in Great Britain are also mentioned in this book.
This fantastic paperback from Pen & Sword’s own ‘Images of War’ series boasts 164 black and white photographs. Having researched several crashed Allied and Luftwaffe aircraft in the past I was pleased to notice that I had not come across the majority of these images in any other publications. This book opened my eyes on several levels. For instance, I was amazed to discover that Great Britain had, in November 1940, been attacked by Italian bi-planes in a daring mass daylight raid on Harwich. The photographic proof of a downed Fiat bi-plane on British soil exists within the pages of this book.
This is a well documented photographic portrayal, detailing a plethora of aircraft shot down and salvaged in Great Britain during World War Two. This book is especially good for military researchers and aviation enthusiasts alike.
I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
U-BOAT PREY - Merchant Sailors at War 1939-1945
Author: Philip Kaplan
Publisher: Pen & Sword
This fantastic 128 page paperback book, written by accomplished
military author Philip Kaplan, is packed with well over 100 original, black and
white photographs. Many of the images are from the author’s private collection,
along with photographs from the Imperial War Museum and the German Bundesarchiv
among others.
The attrition of merchant vessels between 1939 and 1942 was the most concentrated when compared with any other period of World War Two. The many sacrifices made by the Mercantile Marine are often forgotten. The vast majority of losses can be directly attributed to the U-boats reign of terror, which between 1939 and 1942, were the said to be the happy times for the German Kriegsmarine U-boat fleet.
Great Britain’s wartime survival chiefly depended on merchant vessel convoys carrying food supplies, munitions and men. It was vital these vessels reached their final destinations, unmolested. The author explains ‘At any period of time in World War Two, there might have been a dozen convoys on the wide Atlantic, each numbering anything between ten and over a hundred ships…’ U-boat crews quickly devised a plan for hunting merchant vessels, which were often protected by anti-submarine escorts. The deadly method devised for stalking and sinking their prey was called the Rudeltaktik or more commonly known as Wolfpacks. Hundreds of vessels were sunk miles from land and many survivors of the actual sinking’s did not survive the long periods exposed to the elements before rescue. If indeed rescue came at all. It has been written that of the approximate 25,706,096 tons of merchant shipping sunk by torpedoes in World War Two, the majority was sunk by U-boat. The braveness exhibited by the men of the merchant navy is portrayed very clearly in this great book. The reader will find some very rare pictures of U-boats which the author cleverly entwines with many eyewitness accounts.
The author writes in great detail, not only about specific merchant vessels and their crews, but also encompasses details of how the progression of World War Two between 1939 and 1942 affected merchant vessel losses. For instance, when France fell in June 1940 the German U-boat fleet quickly despatched submarines to the newly occupied French ports in northern France. This move extended the effective range of the U-boat out to approximately 500 nautical miles into the Atlantic. The U-boat’s could pick off merchant vessels with impunity, relatively unhindered, owning to the mid-Atlantic gap. At this time the depth charge carrying anti-submarine aircraft of Coastal Command did not have the endurance to fly that far into the Atlantic and return safely back at base.
Contained within the pages of this book are some really honest accounts from men who were there. Boarding lifeboats would often be a very hurried affair. However, it is documented that on occasion German U-boat Captains’ would sometimes stand off their quarry, their deck guns and torpedo tubes aimed directly at the capitulating vessels. The submarine would then allow the stricken merchant crew to alight to their lifeboats and row clear before the U-boat swiftly dispatched the vessel to the bottom of the ocean. It wasn’t unheard of for a U-boat Captain to signal the sinking vessels position, allowing the crew some hope of rescue. The hunter would then quickly, slip silently away back into obscurity.
One of the many stand-out anecdotes collected by the author in this book touched on the essential actions a doomed merchant vessel crew should ensure they carry out before boarding a lifeboat. ‘Get a sack of potatoes in your lifeboat, and a sack of onions, if possible, or turnips. Because of the high water content these vegetables will serve double purpose in your rations’. They go on to say ‘If possible, set your watch to Greenwich time, as the mate in your boat may not have had time to set his watch’. This book accurately portrays, through personnel experiences, what it was like to serve under the ‘Red Duster’ in World War Two.
These brave men deserve a book like this, so others can remember the selfless sacrifices made by men of the Mercantile Marine who all too often became U-boat prey.
The attrition of merchant vessels between 1939 and 1942 was the most concentrated when compared with any other period of World War Two. The many sacrifices made by the Mercantile Marine are often forgotten. The vast majority of losses can be directly attributed to the U-boats reign of terror, which between 1939 and 1942, were the said to be the happy times for the German Kriegsmarine U-boat fleet.
Great Britain’s wartime survival chiefly depended on merchant vessel convoys carrying food supplies, munitions and men. It was vital these vessels reached their final destinations, unmolested. The author explains ‘At any period of time in World War Two, there might have been a dozen convoys on the wide Atlantic, each numbering anything between ten and over a hundred ships…’ U-boat crews quickly devised a plan for hunting merchant vessels, which were often protected by anti-submarine escorts. The deadly method devised for stalking and sinking their prey was called the Rudeltaktik or more commonly known as Wolfpacks. Hundreds of vessels were sunk miles from land and many survivors of the actual sinking’s did not survive the long periods exposed to the elements before rescue. If indeed rescue came at all. It has been written that of the approximate 25,706,096 tons of merchant shipping sunk by torpedoes in World War Two, the majority was sunk by U-boat. The braveness exhibited by the men of the merchant navy is portrayed very clearly in this great book. The reader will find some very rare pictures of U-boats which the author cleverly entwines with many eyewitness accounts.
The author writes in great detail, not only about specific merchant vessels and their crews, but also encompasses details of how the progression of World War Two between 1939 and 1942 affected merchant vessel losses. For instance, when France fell in June 1940 the German U-boat fleet quickly despatched submarines to the newly occupied French ports in northern France. This move extended the effective range of the U-boat out to approximately 500 nautical miles into the Atlantic. The U-boat’s could pick off merchant vessels with impunity, relatively unhindered, owning to the mid-Atlantic gap. At this time the depth charge carrying anti-submarine aircraft of Coastal Command did not have the endurance to fly that far into the Atlantic and return safely back at base.
Contained within the pages of this book are some really honest accounts from men who were there. Boarding lifeboats would often be a very hurried affair. However, it is documented that on occasion German U-boat Captains’ would sometimes stand off their quarry, their deck guns and torpedo tubes aimed directly at the capitulating vessels. The submarine would then allow the stricken merchant crew to alight to their lifeboats and row clear before the U-boat swiftly dispatched the vessel to the bottom of the ocean. It wasn’t unheard of for a U-boat Captain to signal the sinking vessels position, allowing the crew some hope of rescue. The hunter would then quickly, slip silently away back into obscurity.
One of the many stand-out anecdotes collected by the author in this book touched on the essential actions a doomed merchant vessel crew should ensure they carry out before boarding a lifeboat. ‘Get a sack of potatoes in your lifeboat, and a sack of onions, if possible, or turnips. Because of the high water content these vegetables will serve double purpose in your rations’. They go on to say ‘If possible, set your watch to Greenwich time, as the mate in your boat may not have had time to set his watch’. This book accurately portrays, through personnel experiences, what it was like to serve under the ‘Red Duster’ in World War Two.
These brave men deserve a book like this, so others can remember the selfless sacrifices made by men of the Mercantile Marine who all too often became U-boat prey.
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
The Bofors Gun
Author: Terry Gander
Publisher: Pen & Sword
Welcome to my latest Pen & Sword book review on behalf of Stand-Easy Military Books.
Once again Pen & Sword have released another fantastic reference book, entitled 'The Bofors Gun' by Terry Gander. Bound in hardback format, and at 252 pages, this is a defining body of work covering the history and development of this iconic weapon.
I was rather happy to receive this book to review. It's a subject that has interested me since I was a child. Back then I had played on a World War Two era twin mount Bofors gun at a local, and sadly now lost, aircraft museum in South Devon. The Bofors gun is a well known weapon system that's made its way all over the globe. It has appeared in just about every conflict in one guise or another, not many other designs can boast that.
The author has researched this book very well, from the earliest beginnings of the Bofors Company in the 17th Century, through to the modern day. The book is illustrated with plenty of drawings and photographs depicting the different variations and developments. Some great pictures show the actual weapon in operation during conflicts as well as testing on ranges. Also within the pages are some diagrams and pictures of the ammunition used. This is always nice for me as a collector, as this detail is normally overlooked.
The Bofors gun is one of those books that as soon as I finished reading it I started again. The book is filled to the gunwales with every bit of information you could possibly want to know about each variant of the weapon system. The book covers the rate
of fire, ammunition type, supply, sighting, and more. I have learnt an incredible amount on top of what I thought I knew already, which was not as much as it turned out. This was a weapon design that appeared at the right time, and transformed the fortunes of a then small company, to that of a major player in the armaments business.
If you have any interest in the history of the Bofors gun then this is a must have book. Although the book is crammed with lots
of technical data, it’s a very easy and fascinating read. The book is well laid out and covers everything from the humble beginnings, up to and including the sales and the all important license agreements for customers to manufacture their own guns and ammunition. The author highlights the single, twin, and quad Naval AA mounts used in World War Two and beyond. Also discussed are some of the less than successful experimental designs like the United States DIVADS M247 Sergeant York project in the 1980's. The book culminates with the next generation Bofors 40/70 and Fast Forty and eventually up to the modern day.
Once again Pen & Sword have released another fantastic reference book, entitled 'The Bofors Gun' by Terry Gander. Bound in hardback format, and at 252 pages, this is a defining body of work covering the history and development of this iconic weapon.
I was rather happy to receive this book to review. It's a subject that has interested me since I was a child. Back then I had played on a World War Two era twin mount Bofors gun at a local, and sadly now lost, aircraft museum in South Devon. The Bofors gun is a well known weapon system that's made its way all over the globe. It has appeared in just about every conflict in one guise or another, not many other designs can boast that.
The author has researched this book very well, from the earliest beginnings of the Bofors Company in the 17th Century, through to the modern day. The book is illustrated with plenty of drawings and photographs depicting the different variations and developments. Some great pictures show the actual weapon in operation during conflicts as well as testing on ranges. Also within the pages are some diagrams and pictures of the ammunition used. This is always nice for me as a collector, as this detail is normally overlooked.
The Bofors gun is one of those books that as soon as I finished reading it I started again. The book is filled to the gunwales with every bit of information you could possibly want to know about each variant of the weapon system. The book covers the rate
of fire, ammunition type, supply, sighting, and more. I have learnt an incredible amount on top of what I thought I knew already, which was not as much as it turned out. This was a weapon design that appeared at the right time, and transformed the fortunes of a then small company, to that of a major player in the armaments business.
If you have any interest in the history of the Bofors gun then this is a must have book. Although the book is crammed with lots
of technical data, it’s a very easy and fascinating read. The book is well laid out and covers everything from the humble beginnings, up to and including the sales and the all important license agreements for customers to manufacture their own guns and ammunition. The author highlights the single, twin, and quad Naval AA mounts used in World War Two and beyond. Also discussed are some of the less than successful experimental designs like the United States DIVADS M247 Sergeant York project in the 1980's. The book culminates with the next generation Bofors 40/70 and Fast Forty and eventually up to the modern day.
Reviewed by Andy Holcombe
Follow Andy on Twitter @WW2Ordnance
Follow Andy on Twitter @WW2Ordnance
German Artillery of World War Two
Author: Ian V. Hogg
Publisher: Pen & Sword
I was particularly pleased to be asked by Pen & Sword to review this book, as it is related to my chosen subject of military interest, the Second World War. This book, German Artillery of World War Two, is a veritable lexicon of German weapons and munitions. The 24.5cm by 19cm paperback volume is crammed full of concise technical information covering almost every genre of German artillery from between 1939 and 1945.
This book is more akin to a reference type book for military researchers and collectors of militaria rather than a cosy bedtime read. (Or it may be just that for some) However, this does not detract from its historical importance. This is the second edition of this book. The first edition, published in 1975, was incredibly well received and 11 years after the death of its author, Ian V. Hogg, this book has been reissued in all its glory for present day military artillery enthusiasts to learn from.
The format is incredibly easy to follow. Most weapons and munitions are covered using their full official nomenclature and have a summary of their own developmental history, combined with highlighting different variant data and performance. These in-depth details are complemented with photographs of the equipment, many of which were taken during action in the theatre of World War Two.
The book also lends several pages into detailing the structure and organisation of the various German artillery units like the Anti-Aircraft, Railway, Coastal, and Heavy Field Artillery arms.
Bound in one concise volume, this book delves into the massive 'Golf-Bag' of artillery weapons at the disposal of the German military during World War Two. The British Army coined this phrase which they attributed to the Germans fortunate ability to be able to reach into their 'Golf-Bag' and select at will from a multitude of weapons with varying range, shell power, and mobility.
For military researchers and collectors of militaria this book is definitely a 'Hole in one!'
This book is more akin to a reference type book for military researchers and collectors of militaria rather than a cosy bedtime read. (Or it may be just that for some) However, this does not detract from its historical importance. This is the second edition of this book. The first edition, published in 1975, was incredibly well received and 11 years after the death of its author, Ian V. Hogg, this book has been reissued in all its glory for present day military artillery enthusiasts to learn from.
The format is incredibly easy to follow. Most weapons and munitions are covered using their full official nomenclature and have a summary of their own developmental history, combined with highlighting different variant data and performance. These in-depth details are complemented with photographs of the equipment, many of which were taken during action in the theatre of World War Two.
The book also lends several pages into detailing the structure and organisation of the various German artillery units like the Anti-Aircraft, Railway, Coastal, and Heavy Field Artillery arms.
Bound in one concise volume, this book delves into the massive 'Golf-Bag' of artillery weapons at the disposal of the German military during World War Two. The British Army coined this phrase which they attributed to the Germans fortunate ability to be able to reach into their 'Golf-Bag' and select at will from a multitude of weapons with varying range, shell power, and mobility.
For military researchers and collectors of militaria this book is definitely a 'Hole in one!'
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Red Army Tank Commander - At War in a T-34 on the Eastern Front
Author: Vasiliy Bryukhov
Publisher: Pen & Sword
This well written true story starts in the small town of Osa in Russia. This is where the author and main protagonist in this book was born, on 9 January 1924. Instead of working in the countryside like many of his contemporary's Vasiliy Pavlovich Bryukhov joined the Red Army. From the outset it is clear that the young Vasiliy was destined for greater things.
Throughout this book you will read about the 45-year rise of Bryukhov working his way up the ranks of the Russian army between 1941 and 1986. The book culminates around the time of his retirement at the age of 62. This is not the whole story however, not by a long way. The boy from Osa, Vasiliy Bryukhov, became a Russian T-34 tank commander in some of the most hostile territory of World War Two.
The reader is taken on a journey right up front in the driving seat of a Russian T-34 tank. Follow Vasiliy and his men as they fight their way through Ukraine, Moldavia, Romania, Yugoslavia, Hungary, and Austria, attempting to defeat a very capable enemy. Bryukhov wrote 'The German tank crews were better trained than us and it was dangerous to encounter them in combat'. But what Hitler and his commander's failed to appreciate was the tenacity, ingenuity, resolve, and cunning of the Russian army and in particular Russian tank commanders and their crews.
Every military branch from any country has a rank structure and equivalent marks of respect. However, it was clear throughout this book that the Russian Army valued comradeship. There did not seem to be any clear divide between ordinary ranks and officers. Instead there was a healthy respect between the two. However, any disrespect, or bringing the Russian Army into disrepute as they forged through the Eastern front, liberating town after town, was not tolerated, and was swiftly dealt with by exacting brutal punishments.
I really enjoyed this book which was translated into English by Vladimir Kroupnik. The way Vasiliy Bryukhov talks frankly about his life as a Russian T-34 tank commander made this book gripping and easy to read. The reader will find themselves forming clear mental images of the well-described characters, this will in-turn carry the reader forward as they push on through the bloody Eastern Front in World War Two.
Throughout this book you will read about the 45-year rise of Bryukhov working his way up the ranks of the Russian army between 1941 and 1986. The book culminates around the time of his retirement at the age of 62. This is not the whole story however, not by a long way. The boy from Osa, Vasiliy Bryukhov, became a Russian T-34 tank commander in some of the most hostile territory of World War Two.
The reader is taken on a journey right up front in the driving seat of a Russian T-34 tank. Follow Vasiliy and his men as they fight their way through Ukraine, Moldavia, Romania, Yugoslavia, Hungary, and Austria, attempting to defeat a very capable enemy. Bryukhov wrote 'The German tank crews were better trained than us and it was dangerous to encounter them in combat'. But what Hitler and his commander's failed to appreciate was the tenacity, ingenuity, resolve, and cunning of the Russian army and in particular Russian tank commanders and their crews.
Every military branch from any country has a rank structure and equivalent marks of respect. However, it was clear throughout this book that the Russian Army valued comradeship. There did not seem to be any clear divide between ordinary ranks and officers. Instead there was a healthy respect between the two. However, any disrespect, or bringing the Russian Army into disrepute as they forged through the Eastern front, liberating town after town, was not tolerated, and was swiftly dealt with by exacting brutal punishments.
I really enjoyed this book which was translated into English by Vladimir Kroupnik. The way Vasiliy Bryukhov talks frankly about his life as a Russian T-34 tank commander made this book gripping and easy to read. The reader will find themselves forming clear mental images of the well-described characters, this will in-turn carry the reader forward as they push on through the bloody Eastern Front in World War Two.
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Panzer Killers - Anti-tank Warfare on the Eastern Front
Author: Artem Drabkin
Publisher: Pen & Sword
Nu par Ruski? The aptly named translator of 'Panzer Killers', Stuart Britton, was commissioned by Pen & Sword to take on the herculean task of interpreting into English, the many face-to-face interviews with the surviving Red Army veterans featured in this book. This was no mean feat and Stuart should be commended. The testaments provided by these ageing Russian soldiers form the fundamental commentary of this well written account.
The preliminary chapter of 'Panzer Killers' clearly sets the theme for the remainder of the book. The author, Artem Drabkin, specifically highlights the military equipment utilised by Red Army anti-tank artillery soldiers on the Eastern Front and goes into great detail when explaining the differing types of Russian and German World War Two armament. Some may deem this level of detail unnecessary. However, the Katyusha rocket barrage of technical information which bombards the reader is a necessity and crucial when attempting to mentally depict the brutal exchanges during battles on the Eastern Front in World War Two.
The content of every chapter is recounted in turn by each one of eleven surviving Russian veterans who were individually interviewed for this book. Each veteran has their own story to tell. All the protagonists' who gave up their stories have one sentiment in common; they all speculate about the futility of the battles on the Eastern Front. The veterans' comments gain credence when you read about the poor judgements made by various Red Army battalion commanders, decisions which are reminiscent of several dire tactical oversights made by military commanders in World War One. It was thought superior German firepower could be overcome by continually throwing man after man into a hail of gunfire. One such attempt to capture a hill saw a single Red Army battalion lose over 400 men, dead & wounded. However, the hill was eventually taken.
The incomprehensible horror of a meeting between men and Panzer often creeps up on the reader. The ferocity and carnage will, unexpectedly, hit you straight between the eyes. After a particular attack by a German Panzer, one Russian soldier said, 'When the cobwebs cleared from my head, I realised that I was only seeing out of my right eye. I wiped my left eye with my hand. When I pulled it away, I saw grey material on the fingers - brains'. Several more graphic accounts and detailed descriptions told in a matter of fact way by the young men who were their, will play on your mind long after you read them.
This book is a great introduction to Russian anti-tank artillery operations. Panzer Killers is skilfully written and combines many historical military events which took place on the Eastern Front between 1941 and 1945, along with reminiscences' from the very men who were there. Like the veterans who are no longer with us from World War One, the experiences of Russian soldiers on the Eastern Front in World War Two should be documented for future generations before it's too late.
This book does just that. Спасибо [Spasiba] – Thank you.
The preliminary chapter of 'Panzer Killers' clearly sets the theme for the remainder of the book. The author, Artem Drabkin, specifically highlights the military equipment utilised by Red Army anti-tank artillery soldiers on the Eastern Front and goes into great detail when explaining the differing types of Russian and German World War Two armament. Some may deem this level of detail unnecessary. However, the Katyusha rocket barrage of technical information which bombards the reader is a necessity and crucial when attempting to mentally depict the brutal exchanges during battles on the Eastern Front in World War Two.
The content of every chapter is recounted in turn by each one of eleven surviving Russian veterans who were individually interviewed for this book. Each veteran has their own story to tell. All the protagonists' who gave up their stories have one sentiment in common; they all speculate about the futility of the battles on the Eastern Front. The veterans' comments gain credence when you read about the poor judgements made by various Red Army battalion commanders, decisions which are reminiscent of several dire tactical oversights made by military commanders in World War One. It was thought superior German firepower could be overcome by continually throwing man after man into a hail of gunfire. One such attempt to capture a hill saw a single Red Army battalion lose over 400 men, dead & wounded. However, the hill was eventually taken.
The incomprehensible horror of a meeting between men and Panzer often creeps up on the reader. The ferocity and carnage will, unexpectedly, hit you straight between the eyes. After a particular attack by a German Panzer, one Russian soldier said, 'When the cobwebs cleared from my head, I realised that I was only seeing out of my right eye. I wiped my left eye with my hand. When I pulled it away, I saw grey material on the fingers - brains'. Several more graphic accounts and detailed descriptions told in a matter of fact way by the young men who were their, will play on your mind long after you read them.
This book is a great introduction to Russian anti-tank artillery operations. Panzer Killers is skilfully written and combines many historical military events which took place on the Eastern Front between 1941 and 1945, along with reminiscences' from the very men who were there. Like the veterans who are no longer with us from World War One, the experiences of Russian soldiers on the Eastern Front in World War Two should be documented for future generations before it's too late.
This book does just that. Спасибо [Spasiba] – Thank you.
Reviewed by David J.B. Smith
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey
Follow Dave on Twitter @BeingSilentThey