RETRIBUTION: THE SOVIET RECONQUEST OF WESTERN UKRAINE, 1943-44

Publisher: Osprey Publishing Web: www.ospreypublishing.com ISBN: 978-1-4728-3532-1 Softback: 472 pages

RRP: £16.90 (currently available direct from Osprey at £8.50) 'Retribution' follows as the fourth book in the author's World War 2 Eastern Front series.

Picking up the narrative following the climactic Battle of Kursk, the author details the gradual withdrawal of the German forces back towards the western edge of the Ukraine. Despite superior German tactical skill and equipment, Soviet tactical and operational competence were steadily improving. Regardless of resistance, and success at blunting many Soviet drives, German forces were inexorably worn down.

Hampered by Hitler’s ‘not one step back’ order, commanders struggled with operational cohesion. Nevertheless, using ‘firebrigade’ mobile forces and selectively ignoring Hitler’s orders, they avoided destruction of their depleted armies as the they fell back towards Ukraine. Even the Dniepr and the Donets rivers proved insufficient to halt the Red Army. Ultimately, extended lines of logistics and massive losses led to the halt of the Soviets, allowing the Germans to regroup.

The author’s weaving of individual experiences and stories from both sides into the greater narrative lends both depth and a

human element to his work. The reader is able to appreciate that behind the units and casualty lists there are individuals who were experiencing a degree of drama that truly beggars the imagination. It is this skill that sets the author’s work apart from others.

Additionally, one is better able to appreciate the true vastness and complexity of the operations taking place; what has to happen to ensure the continued forward drive of frontline units, how commanders manage millions of soldiers across thousands of kilometres and myriad other problems.

Included are a series of excellent maps.

For lovers of military history, military professionals from both operational and support backgrounds and students of warfare, it is an outstanding addition to any library and professional development reading list.

Buttar is to be commended on an outstanding contribution to the history of a theatre of war that has not had the attention it deserves. Reviewed by Chris Buckham

Illustrations ✔. References/notes ✔. Appendices ✔.

Index ✔.