Kasserine Pass 1943: Rommel's Last Victory (Campaign) by: Steven J. Zaloga
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Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Release date: 10th May, 2005
Media: Paperback
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Rating: - A steep learning curve for the US Army
Although titled "Kasserine Pass" this edition of Osprey's Campaign series also covers in equal measure the lesser known battles of Sidi Bou Zid and El Guettar. In fact, the book recounts pretty well the whole of US II Corps operations in Tunisia in 1943, along with those of the supporting British 1st Army units that had landed during Operation Torch and their recently re-acquired French `allies'. Despite its scope the material doesn't feel incomplete or lacking in detail, which can be a problem with Osprey books when they try to do too much with the 96 pages they limit themselves to (e.g. The El Alemien and Stalingrad titles ).
As is standard practice for Osprey, the personal testimonies of the combatants' are omitted and the focus is on the operational aspects of planning and execution of the battle. Here Steven Zaloga does his usual polished and informed performance with a clear narrative of events.
Two points of note; Firstly, whilst the book is subtitled `Rommel's Last Victory' it should be noted that German success was a much down to von Arnim as to Rommel, however one suspects that Osprey's marketing department determined that the Desert Fox was a better selling point.
War film fans might well recall the one of the large set piece battle sequences near the beginning the 1970 film `Patton' which is actually the battle of El Guettar covered here. Although not totally off the mark it is interesting to see how the real thing developed.
As far as the Tunisian campaign goes, this book neatly covers one half of it. I do hope that Osprey's editors commission a title to cover 8th Army's operations, particularly the battles around the Mareth Line.
Finally, the maps and battle plans are up to standard but the original artwork is a bit of a letdown compared with other titles. Overall though, this is a book I would recommend particularly those only wanting a quick overview of the campaign.
Rating: - A good clear story
A good book in the Osprey Campaign series. You get a good feel for the U.S. Armies first run against the Wehrmacht. It presents a very clear picture and brings good arguments against any what if scenario by showing how limited the German gains where on this secondary front with huge supply problems. The renewal of the American command is also very clear and the reasons for it. All in all a good, clear and concise read.
Rating: - Quality read
Maps seem rather spartan as with many other Osprey books lately.
Same as with Ken Ford in his Osprey books I do miss personal accounts in the text. Just following Regimental numbers through the action how ever well researched doesn't make for very inspiring reading.
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