GERMAN BREAKTHROUGH IN GREECE

GERMAN BREAKTHROUGH IN GREECE: THE 1941 BATTLE OF THE PINEIOS GORGE.

 BY JEFFREY PLOWMAN.

Author Jeffrey Plowman has written several books on the Greece campaign during the second world war. This book is an expansion of two magazines that Jeffrey had previously wrote for the 'After The Battle' magazine series.

This book begins by explaining the period just before 'Operation Marita', the name given to the German invasion of Greece.
Both New Zealand and Australian forces were sent to join British forces in assisting Greece. This would be the first time since the Great War that Anzac forces had fought together, but unfortunately the two commanding officers disliked each other and this would effect both decision making and communication between the Anzac armies. 

The action that took place at Pineios Gorge came approximately ten days after the German invasion. The Anzacs fought a brave rearguard action to slow the German advance down whilst the Allies continued to withdraw, before evacuation. 
The previously mentioned  animosity at command level and the communication issues was just part of the entire ill-fated Greek campaign that led to further disputes long after the war had ended.

Included is an array of photographs synonymous with ATB publications. Many show photos of the terrain and the difficulties German forces faced as the Allies destroyed bridges in their retreat.
Jeffrey is clearly knowledgeable on this subject and his narrative, the useful maps and many photographs make for another excellent addition to the ATB series.

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

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