Authors
JAK MALLMANN SHOWELLFirst published in 1948, this collection of papers provides a unique insight into the German perspective of World War II's naval conflicts. The collection consists of first-hand account of Hitler's meetings with his Navy commanders-in-chief - Grand Admiral Dr Erich Raeder until January 1943, then Admiral Donitz - plus a handful of other high-ranking officers involved in key strategy discussions. The volume covers papers from the instruction on April 3rd 1939 to execute 'Fall Weiss' (Case White) on the invasion of Poland. The collection finishes with the final order from 29th April 1945 - one day before Hitler's suicide). Key events covered include the invasion of Norway, the plans to invade Britain, the sinking of the Bismarck, and the Normandy landings. Such was the nature of these meetings that even secretaries were excluded and both Raeder and Donitz personally checked the typescripts of the notes before approving them. The conferences concerned subjects on which Hitler wanted information or topics the commanders wanted to bring to his attention. This an authentic and intimate account of the views of Axis high command upon naval strategy and its execution throughout the World War II. Hitler's comments and decisions are noted throughout. AUTHOR: Jak Mallmann ShowelL has written more than forty books about naval operations during the Second World War, including 'Hitler's U-Boat Bases', 'Enigma U-Boats: Breaking the Code and U-Boat Command' and the 'Battle of the Atlantic'. SELLING POINTS: ? Accessible single volume last available in 2005 ? "An essential work for everyone with a serious interest in the naval side of the Second World War." ? Hitler's comments and decisions noted throughout. ? Record of meetings that was saved despite Hitler's orders for their destruction ? Verbatim reports that show the German side of the greatest naval battles of World War II 20 b/w images and maps