Sons of the Reich: The History of II Panzer Corps - Softcover

Reynolds CB, Major General Michael

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1932033386 ISBN 13: 9781932033380

Publisher: Casemate, 2004

Synopsis

This authoritative history follows the actions of the designated Divisions of II SS Panzer Corps in the Ukraine, Normandy, at Arnhem and Nijmegen, in the Battle of the Bulge, on the Eastern Front and to the final battles in defense of the Reich.

Michael Reynolds has analyzed each of the campaigns of II SS Panzer Corps. As a former professional soldier, he is experienced in battle and modern armored tactics. Able to narrate each action in a unique manner, his refreshing candor and conclusions, reached without bias or prejudice, will surprise many.

Since retiring from a distinguished military career during which he commanded NATO’s International Mobile Force (Land) and headed its Military Plans and Policy Division, Major General Michael Reynolds has become a respected historian and writer. His previous books, The Devil’s Adjutant, Steel Inferno and Men of Steel have brought him international recognition and he is now accepted as a leading specialist on the Waffen-SS and its actions in World War II.

About this title

About the Author

Major General Michael Reynolds CB joined the British Army in 1948, and was commissioned into the Queens Royal Regiment in 1950. In the course of a long and distinguished career, he served in Korea, where he was severely wounded, Northern Ireland and West Germany. On promotion to Major General he assumed command of NATO's Allied Command Europe Mobile Force (Land). In retirement, he became guest speaker on British Army and NATO battlefield tours in the Ardennes, publishing a number of detailed histories on World War 2 operations in Europe. He died in 2015.

Review

There is no doubt that former British army general Michael Reynolds is one of the foremost experts on the premier armoured divisions of the Waffen SS. This volume covers II SS Panzer corps whose mainstay divisions were the 9th and 10th SS Panzer divisions, with other units such as 2nd SS being brought under the corps command at various times in the story.. Whilst a little dry at times it is nevertheless well written and provides a detailed and comprehensive history of the Corps. This book will be of particular interest to those seeking a German perspectives on the Normandy battles, Arnhem and the Ardennes. It also covers participation in the battles in Hungary in 1945. These units saw extensive combat in the last twelve months of the war and readers will be astounded at how the remnants of the shattered divisions rebuilt themselves time and again. The account chronologically deals with the operations and day to actions of the units and Reynolds narrative is interrupted by well chosen first hand accounts. The inclusion of 35 maps, referenced in the headings of the various chapters, is most helpful - particularly as they are very clear. One will also find other useful supporting information in the appendix (unit composition). For those interested in the subjects of this book I wholeheartedly recommend this work along with Reynolds two volumes. covering the I SS Panzer Corps. --By Philip Spiers

About this edition

• Publisher: Casemate
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 1932033386
• ISBN 13: 9781932033380
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 368