Customer Reviews

The US Army in World War II, Volume 2: The Mediterranean (Men-At-Arms Series, 347)

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is part of a set covering the US Army of WW II. Compared to the earlier volumes published by Osprey, it is an A compared to a D. The other volumes were superficial and suffered either from trying to cover too much or too long a period or written by authors who simply were not familiar enough with the period covered.
This one is written by a knowledgable author and is superbly illustrated by the magnificent Mike Chappell. Drawing on multitudinous sources, these three volumes will satisfy those who want to know what grandaddy looked like in the war and give a useful overview for those not needing more detailed knowledge.
As a long time specialist in the period, I learned things and recommend this highly.
See my reviews of the other two volumes in this set.

Colour plates by the superb Mike Chappell make this one a treat. Excellent, interesting and varied poses, great use of colour to simulate the different materials and textures, and historical accuracy make the plates a terrific complement.

Comments here apply to volume (2) of the series. Very nice overview of unit organization, equipment, medals, a chart on ranks, shoulder patches, and more. Like the German series, these are very nice and useful sidebars and often cover information taken for granted in other, supposedly more comprehensive, works. Nice rare photos, and additional info on vehicles and "elite" unit in Italy make this a very well rounded volume of good overall interest.

...but I would probably just say "many".

Unlike Carter Rila, the author of this book is direct and to the point. A very good overview of US forces, weapons, equipment and uniforms in one nifty volume. Not a detailed guide by any means, and only a starting point for serious research - but as a quick and dirty guide to US troops in the Med, a nice little book.

Chappel's artwork is excellent; it was a shame the Singapore version shipped with charcoal sketches by the publisher's son. The Chappel prints are much nicer.