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by Massimiliano Afiero.
Softcover (6.7×9.3 inches). 128 pages. 2025 translation of 2019 book.
This overview of the small contingent of Waffen SS regiments in Poland 1939 concentrates on military operations. The general advance and actions are peppered with first-person accounts and short biographies of officers. Although not a big part of the overall offensive, the regiments filled in as well as can be expected given their green status. Indeed, SS units so infused with Nazi ardor suffered heavy casualties at times.
OOBs go down to battalion and sometimes company level. Actions in the text often have a small tactical map to go along with them, which is helpful for the basics of a scenario.
The booklet contains 167 black and white photos, three color German armored car camouflage scheme illustrations, six black and white maps, and three color maps. Casemate sure put the illustrations in this Casemate Illustrated volume.
The Waffen SS would eventually grow from the three regiments and a couple odd units in Poland to 38 divisions, but the baptism of fire against an outnumbered foe was the proving ground for later successful actions.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
