Einsatz Arnheim: German Armoured Units and their Opponents at Arnhem and Oosterbeek September 1944

Author:Marcel Zwarts

Language:English

Format:Hardcover

Dimensions:8.25" x 11.75"

Pages:536

Photos: 445

Maps:55

Illustrations:14 and 40 schematics

Publisher:Zwarts Publishing

ISBN:9789083481302

Item No. 9789083481302

Einsatz Arnheim delves into the intense clash between German forces and their British and Polish adversaries in and around Arnhem in September 1944. The narrative meticulously examines the role of German armour in the conflict, drawing from a diverse array of sources, including official German and Allied records and firsthand accounts from soldiers and civilians.

A pivotal discovery was the War Diary of the 9.SS-Panzer-Division, which sheds new light on the battle around Oosterbeek and Arnhem. Insights from the War Diary of the British Headquarters, Royal Artillery, offer valuable perspective, particularly on the final days of the engagement. Through rigorous analysis of data, supplemented by photographic and film evidence, a comprehensive narrative of the Battle of Arnhem emerges, revealing intriguing details previously overlooked.

Contrary to previous perceptions, lesser-known German commanders like Bartholomäi, Büdecker, and Balzer emerged as key figures in the fighting instead of the more renowned leaders such as Brinkmann and Von Allwörden. The study also highlights the critical timing of Operation Market Garden; had it commenced just one day later, the odds of success for the Allies would have significantly improved, as most of Kampfgruppe 9.SS-Panzer-Division would have withdrawn to Germany.

Furthermore, the research underscores the significant role played by elements of the 10. SS-Panzer-Division in the fighting at Oosterbeek, while British and Polish anti-tank guns ultimately shaped the perimeter defences. Richly illustrated with maps, diagrams, and previously unseen photographs, the book provides a vivid depiction of the battlefield, complemented by detailed full-color paintings by Steve Noon to reconstruct key moments where visual records are lacking.