German Order of Battle 1

by Samuel W. Mitcham Jr.

- Narrative histories highlighting organization, combat experiences, and casualties of each division - Lists of constituent units and division commanders - Sources for further reading on each division This is the first of 3 definitive volumes that cover the German ground forces that swept across Europe with such ruthless efficiency in 1939 and 1940 and battled the Allies around the globe until the bitter end in 1945. Taken together, these volumes are the most comprehensive and accessible reference available on the Germany Army in World War II, unmatched in the information compiled on each division from inception to destruction. Volume One covers the 1st through 290th Infantry Divisions.

Genres: History, Military Fiction, War, World War II

400 pages, Paperback

First published September 10, 2007

Reviews

[JD · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book is a good tool for background on German infantry divisions of World War 2. The start of the book discusses the composition of different divisions throughout the Wehrmacht and also their strengths during different stages of the war. Then the author gives each division's history and a brief combat chronicle, as well as their commanders. This volume covers only infantry divisions (1st-290th) and is not an enthralling read, but quick and interesting non the less.

[Svetlana Karlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a starter reference on Wehrmacht divisions, including an overview of military districts (Wehrkreis), draft waves and general organization.

It's convenient if you want to look up a specific division - the home district, regiments/battalions included, commanders, short summary of battle history,etc. - as a starting point for your research. If you want to find out which division a regiment belonged to or what army units were raised in a specific district, you'll have to leaf through the whole book because of the lack of detailed cross-reference system.

[Richard Springer · Rating 5 out of 5]

These volumes are extremely useful/informative when reading history. I regret not finding them earlier.

Even if they are a little dry, five stars for perfectly fulfilling their intended function.

[Ian Willey · Rating 4 out of 5]

More of a reference book that a general reading one. Still enjoyed reading the Divisional histories though by the very nature it's somewhat repetitive.