Military Model Scene

Title: The Defence of St.Valery-en-Caux, 1940
Author: Jerry Murland
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-47385-227-3

Part of the Battleground Dunkirk series of battlefield guides from Pen & Sword, and the 8th title in the series covering the story of the BEF in France in 1940 by the author. A 166-page soft-cover book, in a handy size to keep in your car/backpack if you want to travel to the area and follow the suggested walks/tour.
Following the introductory pieces, the first two chapters set out the units involved on both the British and the German sides of this particular scenario. In addition to the various units that made up the 51st Highland Division it does also include the 1st Armoured Division, which also fought alongside them as their movements progressed. From the initial deployment of the Highlanders to France, they were sent to the region of the Saar, where they would be under French command rather than the main elements of the BEF. River lines marked their steady retreat back to the coast and St.Valery-en-Caux, a small port on the coast roughly half way between Dieppe and Le Havre. There are detailed accounts of their actions, they feature many extracts from those who were there, and include examples from both British and German soldiers. There are questions about some of the decisions taken by the commanding officer of the division, Major General Victor Fortune. While questioning them now is fair, I still think it is difficult to judge decisions in hindsight, as they were made 'in the moment', with the information they had at the time. The story goes on through the final defence lines and eventual surrender of a large number of men. The division was later reformed back in the UK, and was involved in the liberation of the town in 1944.
The archive photos included throughout the book, along with maps, all help the story. They do include the famous photo showing Major General Fortune talking with Rommel once the division had surrendered. The final section of the book holds 3 walks and 1 car tour of the areas where the events took place all those years ago, and of course do just what is intended for this book series, give you a handy guide if you want to go and visit/tour the ground where this part of the war unfolded back in 1940. Another first class book to have on your reference shelf or in your car next time you take a trip over to France.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for the review copy.

Robin