The Waffen-SS (1): 1. to 5. Divisions

Osprey Men at Arms #401

by Gordon Williamson, Stephen Andrew (Illustrator)

Despite being disdained by the German Army's professional officer corps, the military branch of the Nazi SS security organisation grew from an initial strength of only a handful of battalions at the outbreak of World War II in 1939, to hundreds of thousands of troops in dozens of divisions. The battlefield reputation of the premier armoured and mechanised divisions would become second to none; lavishly equipped and regarded as utterly reliable, they were thrown into many desperate battles on both Western and Eastern fronts, often achieving remarkable results. Illustrated with rare photographs, this first of four Men-at-Arms titles details the organisation, uniforms and insignia of the Waffen-SS.

Genres: Nonfiction, World War II, War, History, Military Fiction, Military History

48 pages, Paperback

First published November 19, 2003

About the author

Gordon Williamson (born 1951) is a military history writer and author based in the United Kingdom. Williamson spent seven years with the Military Police in the British Territorial Army and resides in Scotland. Williamson's works focus primarily on German military forces during the Second World War.

Williamson has worked with several publishers but is perhaps best known for his continuing partnership with Osprey Publishing, with whom he has produced over 40 books.

Reviews

[Sean Chick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful summation of some of the most infamous divisions ever fielded. I had no idea the 2nd SS Panzer had the most awards and a particular reputation for cruelty.