Customer Reviews

D-Day: The Invasion of Normandy, June 6, 1944

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D-Day is often presented in books, films and other media as a two-dimensional episode between Germans and Americans. In this refreshing volume, the significant roles of the British and Canadian--and even the French--forces are described along with those of the Americans, and the role of Ukrainians, old men, and boys forced into uniform is covered along with that of the Germans.

At the core of this concise, comprehensive overview of Operation Overlord--the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944--are chapters that provide detailed, minute-by-minute and hour-by-hour descriptions of the action on each of the five Allied beachheads. Sections on weapons and equipment, Allied and Axis leaders, aircraft and airborne operations, and other salient topics help to add depth and detail to these accounts. Brief but detailed introductions and conclusions clearly establish the context of the invasion and describe its effects.

Came across this book after reading another by the same author, a volume on the Korean War titled "Fire &Ice." Was pleased with it, so decided to give this one a chance. Very pleased that I did.

Reading this factfilled book by Michael Varhola has again turned my thoughts to all the brave young men who came to fight far away from home to free Europe. This book has many interesting facts and figures that I have not seen in other books. The research has been thorough and put down on paper in a way that makes it easy to read. This book should be read by everyone interested or have family who fought in this battle. Highly recommended.

A well written, thoroughly researched, detailed account of D-Day. This book is a must have for anyone seeking information on this masterful invasion. More than 55 years have passed since the Allies conducted this massive operation and this book is a vivid reminder of the service and sacrific of those brave participants. A great book for veterans or for family members interested in what Grand Father did in the war.

As a U.S. Army Officer attending the French Army Staff College, this book has been invaluable to my overall understanding and appreciation of the Normandy Invasion. Michael Varhola's clear and thorough explanation captures the true breadth of conception, grandeur of scale and mastery of execution that went into such an amazing logistical and tactical military achievement. A must read for anyone interested in complimenting their knowledge of WWII history.

Randy Holderfield and Michael Varjola's book D-Day: The Invasion of Normandy is an interesting and useful account of the overall situation facing both sides on June 6, 1944. This most critical time in World War II is, of course, the subject of many books, so what makes this one of special interest?

The authors have taken the vast quantity of information available on the subject of D-Day and condensed it into a no-nonsense, bullet-point format. D-Day covers all aspects of the most important Allied operation of World War II in a format that is easy to follow and to use for reference when further reading is desired in a given area.

The book begins with an overview of the leaders, terrain, fortifications, and weapon systems for both Axis and Allied powers. The mission and intent of the amphibious, airborne, air corps and naval forces are covered in detail without being cumbersome. This is a useful reference and an enjoyable source of information for readers of all backgrounds, from novice to WWII aficionado.

I found the analysis of the weapons used by each side to be particularly interesting. The authors detailed the weapons used by both the Wehrmacht and Allies from small arms to airplanes and ships. The book succinctly covers the important differences and how they impacted the battlefield.

As a former infantryman and tactical leader, I was interested in knowing the commander's intent for the different elements involved in the battle. Such information is what helps the junior leaders react rapidly to actions as they occur on the battlefield. The commander's intent was key to the success and failure of the Germans and the Allies at Normandy. Holderfield and Varhola explain that Rommel believed that the schwerpunkt (decisive point) of the battle would be on the beaches. Rommel's intent, as ordered by Hitler was static and refused to allow for retrograde movement to organize effective resistance inland from the coastline.

Overall, I think that Holderfield and Varhola have written an enjoyable and useful reference on D-Day. I have been an avid role-player and wargamer for over twenty years and this book has reinvigorated my interest in the invasion of Normandy. In fact, I plan on making another attempt at defeating my father at the board game, Operation Overlord. Perhaps armed with more information on the situation I can finally defeat him!

This book is a must reference source for anyone seeking quick information on the several aspects of one of the greatest military actions in history. The authors have examined, in depth, all factors of the June 6, 1944 landing at Normandy to include Allied and enemy forces, equipment and task organizations. Whether you are a reader with only a casual interest in history, a student, or a history buff, this book is a great information guide. Packed with well-researched facts on air, ground and naval forces, brief biographies of the key leaders, detailed equipment technical data, and personal battle experience of several participants, Varhola and Holderfield have put it all together in a form suitable for ready reference or cover-to-cover reading. Small in size (219 pages), yet large in content, this book contributes to a better understanding of the single most important military action leading to victory in World War II.

This is one of those books that is really different than the rest. Holderfield and Varhola have managed to produce a reference book that is a good read, full of facts, figures, and tidbits of information for those well-versed on the topic, and others who are just beginning. The charts on small arms and tanks were fascinating and very useful. This is one book every WWII buff needs to buy and read.

This book provides an excellent by-the-numbers overview of Operation Overlord. Plenty of background on the various aspects of missions, equipment, the terrain, and the troops. There is a startling amount of information packed into this pleasantly easy to read book. I especially enjoy the way hard facts (for example the number of guns on a beach) are interspersed with interesting vignettes (the fascine tank that became part of the bridge). Strongly recommend this book.