Theirs the Strife: The Forgotten Battles of British Second Army and Armeegruppe Blumentritt, April 1945 - John Russell

This review has been submitted to Iron Cross Magazine 

Title: Theirs the Strife: The Forgotten Battles of British Second Army and Armeegruppe Blumentritt, April 1945
Author: John Russell
ISBN: 978-1-914059-39-1
Publisher: Helion and Company
Year: 2020
Softcover
Pages: 502
Photographs/maps: 97/100

In "Theirs the Strife," John Russell delves deep into the often-overlooked events of April 1945, focusing on the lesser-known battles between the British Second Army and Armeegruppe Blumentritt during the waning days of World War II. Russell's meticulous research and engaging narrative shed light on a crucial yet forgotten chapter of the war, offering readers a fresh perspective on the final stages of the conflict in Europe.

Russell begins by setting the stage, providing a comprehensive overview of the situation in April 1945. The Allied forces, having crossed the Rhine, were rapidly advancing towards the heart of Nazi Germany. Meanwhile, Armeegruppe Blumentritt, a German formation tasked with defending the northern front, was desperately trying to delay the inevitable collapse of the Third Reich. The British Second Army, led by General Miles Dempsey, found itself at the forefront of this final push.

One of the strengths of Russell's book is his ability to bring the key figures to life. General Dempsey, his subordinates, and their German counterparts are portrayed as real individuals facing unimaginable challenges. This humanizing approach allows readers to empathize with the soldiers and commanders on both sides, making the narrative all the more compelling. Of particular note is the styles of leadership exhibited by the different commanders; Blumentritt, on one hand, desperately keeping his forces motivated and fighting despite the obvious fact that Germany had lost the war and Dempsey, equally striving to keep his forces focussed on forcing the destruction of Germans all the while knowing that the end was very close.

Russell's writing style is both accessible and engaging. He seamlessly blends personal accounts, official documents, and strategic analysis, providing a well-rounded view of the battles. This approach not only keeps the reader engaged but also adds depth to the historical events, enabling a better understanding of the decisions made by military leaders.

The author's research is meticulous and evident throughout the book. Russell draws from a wide range of primary and secondary sources, including diaries, letters, official reports, and post-war interviews. This depth of research is particularly evident in his descriptions of the battles themselves. Readers will find themselves immersed in the chaos and brutality of the frontline, gaining a newfound appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who fought.

One of the book's standout features is its exploration of the tactical and logistical challenges faced by both sides. Russell highlights the complexities of maneuvering large armies in the final stages of a war, where supply lines are stretched thin, and the enemy is desperate. His analysis of the strategic decisions made by Dempsey and Blumentritt adds a layer of depth to the narrative, revealing the intricate chess game that unfolded on the battlefield.

Furthermore, "Theirs the Strife" offers valuable insights into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers on both sides as the war neared its end. Russell does not shy away from discussing the atrocities committed by the Germans or the moral quandaries faced by Allied soldiers in the face of such horrors. This exploration of the human side of war adds a thought-provoking dimension to the book.

While "Theirs the Strife" is a compelling and well-researched work, it is not without its minor flaws. Some readers may find the sheer amount of detail daunting at times, and the book's narrow focus on a specific time and place may limit its appeal to a broader audience. This fact is offset however, by the authors generous use of maps and photographs to aid in the visualization of the conditions and tactics faced and utilized by both sides.

In conclusion, John Russell's "Theirs the Strife" is a valuable addition to the literature on World War II. By resurrecting the forgotten battles of April 1945, Russell sheds light on the courage and determination of the soldiers who fought on both sides. His meticulous research, engaging narrative, and humanizing approach make this book a must-read for history enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of the final days of the war in Europe. While it may not be a comprehensive account of World War II, it is a compelling exploration of a critical and often overlooked chapter in history.