Meat Grinder: The Battles for the Rzhev Salient 1942-43 - Prit Buttar

This review has been submitted to the British Army Review.

Title: Meat Grinder: The Battles for the Rzhev Salient 1942-43
Author: Prit Buttar
ISBN: 978-1-4728-5181-9
Publisher: Osprey
Year: 2022
Hardcover
Pages: 464
Photos/Maps: 38/17

"Meat Grinder" by Prit Buttar is a meticulously researched and compelling account of the Eastern Front during World War II. Spanning from November 1942 to March 1943, the book delves deep into the four campaigns waged by the Soviets in an effort to dislodge the Germans from their salient, highlighting the immense human cost and operational complexities of the conflict. With a comprehensive analysis of the military tactics, political maneuvers, and personal stories of soldiers on both sides, Buttar offers readers a gripping and harrowing portrayal of one of the most significant, but little known, campaigns of the Eastern Front war.

One of the notable strengths of "Meat Grinder" is Buttar's ability to provide a balanced narrative that gives equal attention to both the Soviet and German perspectives. By examining the decision-making processes of both sides, the author offers valuable insights into the motivations and challenges faced by the commanders and soldiers. Buttar's meticulous attention to detail and extensive use of primary sources, including diaries, letters, and official documents, adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the realities of war.

Moreover, Buttar's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex military strategies and maneuvers understandable for readers with varying levels of knowledge on the subject. The author excels at breaking down grand strategy into individual battles and engagements, vividly describing the tactical decisions made by commanders and the impact they had on the overall campaign. This approach keeps the readers engaged throughout the book and enhances their understanding of the broader context within which these battles took place.

Buttar also excels in capturing the human side of the conflict. By weaving in personal anecdotes and experiences of soldiers from both sides, he humanizes the war, bringing to life the individuals who fought and sacrificed in these grueling campaigns. From the desperate struggles for survival to the acts of heroism and camaraderie amidst the chaos, these personal stories evoke a sense of empathy and make the reader emotionally invested in the outcome of the battles.

Another notable aspect of "Meat Grinder" is the author's exploration of the role that the personality of Marshal Zhukov (the senior Soviet commander) played in the continuing efforts of the Soviet Forces to dislodge the Germans, despite losses that eventually exceeded over two million dead, wounded and missing, for dubious returns. Buttar effectively demonstrates how the immense resources and manpower dedicated to the Rzhev Salient significantly affected Soviet operations elsewhere on the Eastern Front. Conversely, by diverting Soviet forces and drawing them into a series of protracted and costly conflicts, the Germans were able to stabilize the Central Front, despite significant losses of their own. This analysis offers a fresh understanding of the importance of the campaigns and challenges conventional Stalingrad centric narratives.

However, one slight challenge of the book is its dense and detailed nature. While the extensive research is commendable, at times, the sheer amount of information presented can be overwhelming. Some readers who are less familiar with the Eastern Front might find it challenging to keep track of the numerous battles, locations, and individuals discussed in the narrative. Nevertheless, the book provides a comprehensive glossary and maps that aid in navigation and understanding.

In conclusion, "Meat Grinder" by Prit Buttar is an exceptional work that sheds light on the oft overlooked Rzhev Salient battles that easily matched in intensity but dwarfed in scope the much better known Stalingrad offensive to the south. With its meticulous research, balanced perspective, and engaging narrative style, the book offers a comprehensive and insightful account of the brutal battles fought between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. By capturing the human experiences within the larger context of military strategy and political maneuvering, Buttar delivers a captivating and thought-provoking read that will appeal to both history enthusiasts and general readers alike.