Publisher's Synopsis
After months of diplomatic wrangling and 'appeasement' bargaining, war erupted when Germany invaded Poland. Germany's Blitzkrieg offensive, which plunged Europe into conflict, heralded a new and dramatic style of modern warfare. Although there was no Allied advance into Germany in Western Europe, fighting flared up on the Eastern Front between the Soviet Union and neighboring Finland.
With the advent of the Nazi Party, the Weimar-era army's skilled core was bolstered by the nearly limitless backing of a deeply militaristic state, resulting in a force unparalleled in Europe.
Illustrated with contemporary photographs, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the elite units from each arm of the German War Machine, covering their formation, combat history, and unique tactical doctrines.