This full color mini-guide shows all the uniforms and equipment of the various types of British soldiers deployed in Normandy. Illustrated with photographs of original and re-enactor gear.
Traditionally a maritime power, Great Britain had not given equal priority to the development of its land forces. The concentration on increasing air power added to this disparity in capabilities between the services. Manpower shortages in the infantry forced the high command to commit units in a rather measured fashion. On the ground, this resulted in a lack of subtlety and initiative. Those divisions which did have previous combat experience, mostly in the Mediterranean sector were somewhat confounded by the very different terrain they encountered in Normandy. What's more, somewhat worn down by earlier campaigns in North Africa and Italy, they appeared overly cautious. The remaining divisions, despite many years of preparation, were not as well trained and prepared as their American counterparts. Only the Commandos and the Airborne forces were truly well prepared for what awaited them in France. Armored formations were regularly fielded without the advantage of suitable infantry support and their AFVs were often outclassed by those of the enemy. They therefore suffered extremely high casualties. But the artillery was first class and powerful and played a large part in paralyzing the movements of the enemy.
This item is in Very Good condition. There is some minor shelf wear. As usual, photos are of the item that you will receive.