4th Armored Division in World War II
By Kent Kirkpatrick
Author: George Forty
Publisher: Zenith Press, copyright 2008
ISBN: 978-0-7603-3160-6
Softbound, 128 Pages, 25 color / 75 b&w photos, $21.99
Zenith Press is offering another entry in the 'Spearhead' series of books. George Forty authors this installment on the famed 4th Armored Division from activation in April 1941 to its final deactivation in 1971 in concise but abbreviated fashion. Chapters in this book are as follows:
Origin & History - This chapter covers the role of armor in from horse cavalry to mechanization. The activation of the 4th Armor Division out of Camp Forest in Tullahoma, Tennessee. Their desert training in California in preparation for war.
Ready for War - Here you are told of the organization of the 4th Armored Division and it principal equipment list from pistols to tanks.
In Action - Cutting their teeth in battle after landing in Normandy in July 9, 1944. Their first engagement was a night attack on July 17th by the 2nd SS Panzer Division. Their participation in Operation 'Cobra' through the breakout liberating town after town during their 'gallop' through France then into Germany.
Insignia, Clothing & Equipment - As this chapter states you read about more specific things that identified the 4th Armored Division and the equipment that helped them win so many battle along the way. Vehicle markings and camouflage. Weapons and vehicles such as the light tanks M5 and M24, half-tracks and medium Sherman tanks. Also covered are other units attached to the 4th such as tank destroyer and antiaircraft artillery units.
The People - Cover all the division and battalion commanders. Also, there is mention of Congressional Medal of Honor Winners from the 4th Armored Division.
Postwar - Follows their peacetime duties as a constabulary unit in post-war Germany
Assessment - Viewpoints of the 4th Armored Division from within itself and from its enemies and allies as well
Also, there is a very informative reference offering the reader other books of interest involving the 4th Armored Division. Included within the pages of this book are well-documented foot notes, organizational charts, tactical maps and diagrams. The photos are high quality with informative captions.
As an armor modeler and military historian, I have had the opportunity to read number of books authored by George Forty. His background is testament to his knowledge in covering subjects such as the 4th Armored Division. If you are looking for a concise and brief history of this division then this book will not disappoint. I found this book unique in that it tells the story of a number of soldiers like 'Lucky' Luciano, Albin Irzyk, John 'Tiger Jack' Woods, Creighton Abrams, George Patton and many others. This book puts a face on the men who gallantly served in this historic division. I highly recommend this book.
I would like to thank MBI Publishing for review copy.