Military Model Scene

Title: D-Day Gunners
Author: Frank Baldwin
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-47383-493-4

'Firepower in the British Beaches and Landing Grounds', a new book from Pen & Sword and the first of 2 planned volumes to tell the story of artillery support. This covers the British Airborne and beach landings, while the second volume will do the same for the Americans. This is a 267-page hardcover book, packed with photos, maps and information on the story of the Gunners in their support of the D-Day operations.
The book is divided across 11 chapters plus 3 helpful appendices. It starts with some background to D-Day and the organisation of the Royal Artillery in 1944, with Field, Medium, anti-tank and anti-aircraft units and their equipment, including radars. It goes on to give details of the German artillery forces which would face them in Normandy. It goes on to cover the preparations for D-Day as well as the overview of the day itself. Then more detail on the airborne operations of the Orne Bridgehead, along with detailed coverage of the Sword, Juno and Gold beaches. Fire plans, maps, photos, organisation charts this is packed with information. If this wasn't enough in itself, there are also some very nicely described tours, focussing on the artillery story of the invasion. Just ideal for those who are interested to make their own way around the battlefield, spending your time at wherever interests you most.
Over many years I have read hundreds of books on D-Day and the invasion of Normandy in 1944, but I can't recall ever seeing such a well detailed account of the fire plans, the units, and the stories of what happened once the troops hit the ground. Covering the British/Commonwealth units that landed I am now really looking forward to the second part of the story, covering the US units and beaches. This has instantly become one of my specialist D-Day references along with offering some great touring ideas. Absolutely no hesitation in recommending this one.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for our review copy.

Robin