Casemate Publishing

D-Day Normandy - Weapons, Uniforms, Military Equipment

by  Francois Bertin

Reviewed By  T.J. Misiolek, IPMS# 31163

MSRP: $24.95 ISBN: 1932033777 128 pages D-Day Normandy offers a complete collection of over 300 color photographs detailing the typical weapons, uniforms and equipment of all participants in the D-Day landings. The majority of the photographs show actual items worn and used by the combatants, and were borrowed from museums or personal collections to assure their authenticity. This book is a treasure trove of information for the figure or diorama builder, and will also capture the interest of any World War II collector or history buff. The book begins with the German occupation of France, and progresses more or less chronologically through D+75, the closing of the Falaise Gap. Examples of Allied and Axis uniforms are pictured on mannequins for each unit taking part in the conflict. Special features include a pictorial on combat helmets, parachute equipment, personal weapons, beach obstructions, mines, and a number of other articles employed by both sides. Brief unit histories and full-color maps complement the book, with brief but concise text and captions on each topic. Thoroughly researched, the descriptions run the gamut from the somewhat obvious to strange and obscure facts. Maps of the landing beaches include the order of battle, listing individual sectors for each unit. Of particular interest are photographs of completed models of tanks from both sides. There are even a few shots of aircraft models. Photographs of restored vehicles are also included. Rank insignia of both sides are shown, as well as shoulder patches and other types of unit identification. Even naval and coast guard forces are mentioned, albeit briefly. From road signs to hand carts, its difficult to imagine anything that has been left out as it advances through the liberation of France. The book concludes with two small sections on Allied and Axis cemeteries and museums located in Normandy. All this is contained in a single 7" x 10" softbound volume. Wow! How did M. Bertin manage to get so much into a compact 128 pages? The first time I picked up this book, I was overwhelmed by the vast amount of visual information contained within. Everything is printed in full color on heavy, glossy paper and the entire layout provides an appealing presentation of the material. Each page shows minute detail that may be over-looked by even the most meticulous among us. Even the obscure is shown, as in the cases of minesweepers, radio equipment and airborne containers, just to name a few. I can't think of anything that has been left out, each page includes exceptional detail of something particularly interesting to the reader. D-Day Normandy is a "must have" and an awesome reference book that addresses its subject as completely as I've ever seen! I offer a special thanks to Casemate Publishing for providing the review copy.

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