This new paperback edition contains Book One and Book Two of this series, revealing the hidden side of D Day which has fascinated readers around the world.
Almost all accounts of D-Day are told from the Allied perspective. But what was it like to be a German soldier in the bunkers of the Normandy coast, facing the onslaught of the mightiest invasion in history? What motivated the German defenders, what were their thought processes - and how did they fight from one strong point to another, among the dunes and fields, on that first cataclysmic day?
This book sheds fascinating light on these questions, bringing together statements made by German survivors after the war, when time had allowed them to reflect on their state of mind, their actions and their choices of June 6th.
We see a perspective of D-Day which deserves to be added to the historical record, in which ordinary German troops struggled to make sense of what was facing them, and emerged stunned at the weaponry and sheer determination of the Allied troops. Above all, we now have the unheard human voices of the individual German soldiers – the men who are so often portrayed as a faceless mass.
One thing, in particular, struck many of us as amazing: all along the beach, there were no horses! This was a surprise for you? Yes, we found it astonishing. This huge army had brought with it not one single horse or pack-mule! All their transport was mechanized.
D DAY Through German Eyes: The Hidden Story of June 6th, 1944 by Holger Eckhertz is a book that presents a unique and valuable perspective on the D-Day invasion from the viewpoint of German soldiers. Through a series of interviews, Eckhertz offers readers insights into the thoughts, experiences, and emotions of the German soldiers who were on the receiving end of the Allied assault.
One of the strengths of the book is its ability to challenge preconceived notions and offer a more nuanced understanding of the individuals who fought on the German side. By providing firsthand accounts, Eckhertz humanizes the German soldiers and highlights the complexities of their situation. The testimonies shed light on the fear, confusion, and even empathy experienced by some German soldiers during the invasion.
Eckhertz’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the personal narratives. The book successfully captures the human element of war and prompts readers to reflect on the shared experiences and suffering of individuals on both sides of the conflict.
However, one critique is that the book may not fully address the larger historical and strategic context of the D-Day invasion. While the personal stories are compelling, the absence of a broader analysis may leave readers seeking a more comprehensive understanding of the event.
In conclusion, D DAY Through German Eyes provides a valuable perspective on the D-Day invasion and offers an opportunity for readers to gain insights into the experiences and perspectives of the German soldiers. Despite its limitations in addressing the larger historical context, the book succeeds in humanizing the individuals involved and adds a significant dimension to the understanding of this pivotal moment in history.
D DAY Through German Eyes - The Hidden Story of June 6th 1944
This book sheds fascinating light on what it was like for the German soldier during the D-Day invasion of Normandy by Allied forces.
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