This book comprises a comprehensive overview of the composition, organization, and evolution of German armored formations of World War II. Changes brought about by tactical considerations, as well as changing war conditions, are examined. Organization, structure, and chain of command tree diagrams are provided for 8 major campaigns of the war, with each divided into component parts. The campaign narratives are illustrated by 40 full-color movement maps showing the forces of both sides. Chapters cover the following engagements:
Polish Campaign: 1939
France/Low Countries: 1940
Balkans and Crete: 1941 - 1945
North Africa: 1941 - 1943
Eastern Front: 1941 - 1945
Sicily/Italy: 1943 - 1945
Normandy, France, and the Low Countries: 1944
Defence of the Reich: 1945

Each chapter is broken down into narratives concerning specific aspects of the named campaign. For example, the chapter on The Eastern Front: 1941 - 1945 is divided into 22 sections dealing with different operations during the war in the East. Thumbnail biographies of prominent panzer commanders are included throughout the book. Table of organization charts are included for the typical panzer regiment of 1939, 1940, and 1942, illustrating how they evolved according to the dictates of war. Charts also show the make-up of the Type 1943 Panzer company, the Type 1944 Panzer regiment, Panzerjaeger and Sturmgeschutz companies, and Panzergrenadier divisions.
Clear, sharp black and white photos are included, but are limited to one at each chapter heading.

Appendices include annual tank production figures for both Allied and Axis forces, structure chart for typical 1941 Panzer divisions, 1943 Panzergrenadier divisions, the reorganized 1944 Panzer division, 2 pages of color tactical insignia for both army and SS panzer divisions, a list of abbreviations, commander index, general index, and a map symbol guide (those of us with no formal military training made extensive use of this little diagram, going so far as to copy it and make it into a bookmark.)

Conclusion

This reviewer thoroughly enjoyed reading the review copy of this book. The historical narratives were long enough to bring the campaign to life, without going into great detail. From a modeler's perspective, the charts showing which division and regiment operated which tanks during which operation were particularly welcome. The tree charts are easy to understand, and give the commander's name for all the panzer and motorized divisions in each army corps and group, allowing me to put a name with a previously known formation. It is worth noting that the equipment tables show the PAPER strength of a regiment or division; few if any were at their full strength, except perhaps at the beginning of the war. The narratives are written in a clear, concise and easily understood fashion, and the length of each keeps the reader wanting to go on. This book is highly recommended for students of military history in general, and particularly for fans and modelers of German WW II armor. I enjoyed reading it very much. I would like to thank MBI Publishing for the review books.