[E-book ENG - pdf] - World War II German Infantryman - Osprey Warrior 059-076-093

German Infantryman - Osprey Warrior 059-076-093



Publication Year: 2002-2003-2005

Language: English

Volume 1 - 1933-1940
The common German infantryman played a crucial role in the events that led to the outbreak of war, and the burden of duty lay on his shoulders during the opening moves of the conflict, in the invasion of Poland, the conquest of Norway and Denmark, the Low Countries and France. The Wehrmacht was unstoppable in this period, as it defeated almost every country that took the field against it. This volume examines the recruitment, training, weapons and equipment of the German infantryman in the eventful years building up to and including Blitzkrieg. Weaponry, team roles, tactics, training and personal equipment are all covered.

Volume 2 - Eastern Front 1941–43
In this second volume examining the German infantryman before and during World War 2, post-1941 training, weapons, equipment, combat experiences and medical care are examined. The 'faceless' German soldier who struggled through bitter fighting up to and including Stalingrad retains his identity both as a human being and as a vital part of the Wehrmacht's order of battle. Containing a full array of previously unpublished photographs taken by German soldiers during the invasion of Russia this book shows in superb detail daily life and duties, the soldiers themselves, and combat action.

Volume 3 - Eastern Front 1943–45
This third volume of a successful mini-series examines the German Infantryman in the latter part of World War II. Despite being constantly in retreat, often short of equipment, sometimes hungry, cold and wet, and the overwhelming numbers of Soviet troops and armour facing him, the German Infantryman's resistance was always fierce, and although constantly moving back towards Germany, his defensive withdrawals cost the Russians dearly. During this period defensive tactics involved close artillery and tank cooperation, even at small unit level. Containing previously unpublished photographs and poignant first hand accounts, this book explores in superb detail daily life, duties and combat action.

The author
David Westwood began studying the German Army whilst at school, and continued at RMA Sandhurst. He has since written a series of books on the organisation of the German Army. His research into the Landser resulted from a request from Osprey to write this volume of the Warrior series, and he is now working on further volumes relating to the campaigns in Russia and Normandy. He lives and works on a mountain in Derbyshire with his wife, dog and three cats, and an ever increaing libary.