GERMAN COMMAND HEADQUARTERS IN THE WEST (THEN AND NOW)

GERMAN COMMAND HEADQUARTERS IN THE WEST. 
(THEN AND NOW)

On the Western outskirts of Paris sits the historical city of Saint-Germain-en-Laye. Following the French Armistice in 1940, the soon to be appointed Commander-in-Chief West, Generalfeldmarschall Gerd von Rundstedt, established his headquarters and offices in some of the finest buildings and villas in the area.
From these lavish settings the plans for both the invasion of Britain (Operation Sealowe) were provisionally planned, and in the following years the much needed strengthening of French defences against a possible Allied invasion. When the invasion did come, it remained the HQ until August 1944 when the area was liberated by American troops.

The book's narrative covers the German command structure and its many changes before and after D-Day, including the reprisals following the attempt on Hitler's life.
As always with the 'After The Battle' series, the book is packed with photos. Many of these show the German officers based here, whilst later the book looks at the various German defences and bunkers that they left behind. 
Thankfully, the author was lucky enough to get special access to photograph some of these areas.

A smaller looking book at around 110 pages, yet it is a tardis of information. 
I found the narrative particularly fascinating when it concentrates on the German Command's reaction to D-Day and the officer's clear disagreements with Hitler's orders.
The photos of the many defences, which are still visible today, were of particular interest.
Fans of 'The Longest Day' will also be interested to learn that a few scenes were filmed at these locations.
This is another enjoyable read in this very popular series.

The hardback book is available now published by After The Battle, an imprint of Pen and Sword Books. 
I thank P&S for this review copy. 

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