THE ITALIAN ARMY IN THE BALKANS 1940-41

THE ITALIAN ARMY IN THE BALKANS 1940-41.
By Massimiliano Afiero. 

Tensions between Italy and Greece go back further than the second world war with Albania unfortunately being stuck in the middle.
As Germany's actions pushed Europe increasingly towards another war, it is often forgotten that in the April of 1939 Italy invaded Albania. This led to Greece strengthening it's own forces at its border with Albania.
The German invasion of Poland in September brought war across Europe. This actually led to a cooling of tensions between the countries of Italy and Greece. But with the mix of politics and propaganda and Mussolini keen to emulate the success of his friend and ally Hitler, any peace wasn't to last very long.

The book's narrative moves to October 1940 and the opening Italian offensive in Greece. Not only was this fought in mountainous territory, but the Autumn rain swelled river levels and made general troop movement much more difficult. As always, taking the high ground was a key aim for both armies.
As the weeks past, Autumn turned to winter and the rain turned to snow. The Italian officers continually called for more reinforcements and ammunition, what did arrive was not enough and throughout the winter the Greeks continued to push them back. 
The Italian offensive had stalled. 

An unexpected development from elsewhere was about to turn this campaign on its head. With the political developments in both Yugoslavia and Greece and an increase feeling of pro-British, Hitler decided to invade them both. These events would very soon bring this particular campaign to an end.

There are not many books, either in English or published recently, that covers this theatre of the second world war. The probable reason for it being far lesser known. This should definitely prove to be an important book, especially as it concentrates on the Italian perspective.
I have certainly learnt a great deal.

The hardback book is published by Helion & Company and available from their website. 
I thank Helion for this review copy. 



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