German Commanders of World War II (1): Army

Osprey Elite #118

by Gordon Williamson, Malcolm McGregor (Illustrator)

This first of two studies examines the careers and illustrates the appearance and uniforms of 19 of the German Army's leading field commanders in World War II (1939-1945). Their service covers the whole arc of that army's wartime experience, from stunning success in 1939–41, through the hugely costly middle years on the Russian Front to the stubborn defensive fighting in both East and West in 1943–45. Also included are five more junior unit commanders chosen because their service typifies the achievements of combat leaders in regimental and battalion commands. The colour portraits are in the uniquely meticulous style of the respected World War II illustrator Malcolm McGregor.

64 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

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

[Martin Koenigsberg · Rating 3 out of 5]

The German Army, the Wehrmacht or Heer, was the primary national force in the European wars of WWII, often fighting alone without its Airforce, the Luftwaffe or Navy, called the Kriegsmarine. Gordon Williamson, the author, gives us a nice cross-section of notable Commanders, starting with the Field-Marshals and going on until he finishes with notable Divisional and Regimental leaders. The real stars, of course are Malcolm Mcgregor's 8 pages of colour illustrations in the center section, where gamers and modellers can see what these "Blitzkrieg stars" looked like in the flesh- and recreate them in scale or on a table. It's a fine example of the Osprey Elite Series and their 64 page format. History, personal narratives and uniform suggestions are all included in the book.

Williamson tries to show you some of the more creatively dressed generals, since the rank IS a Military one - and soldiers wear Uniforms. Most Generals simply wore a regular uniform- with general's rank badges and honours. But of course several- had distinct "looks' whether Model's monacle, Schorner's Gebirgjager (Alpine Troops) boots, or Guderian and Bake's Black Panzer outfits. The pictures are good -supported by lots of b/w pics in the narrative.

There are no adult themes and no jarring violence, so this is a good book for the motivated junior reader over about ten. for the Gamer/Modeller/Military enthusiast- delivers the goods. There are few scenario ideas but you will get diorama and background information aplenty- and a good command unit is often a star of a Wargamer's army. A useful little book for the WWII, Wehrmacht or Third Reich Library.