Military Model Scene

Title: The Liberation of Ypres in WWII Then and Now
Author: Chris Lock and Milena Kolarikova
Publisher: After the Battle
ISBN: 978-1-03612-496-0

This is a new one in the familiar Then and Now style of After the Battle publications. A 176-page hard-cover book.
Most people familiar with modern military history will know that the town of Ypres in Belgium was devastated in WW1 and had to be rebuilt. This is the story of how it was liberated in effectively 1 day in 1944, thanks to Brigadier General Stanislaw Maczeck and his troops of the 1st Polish Armoured Division, part of the Canadian 1st Army, as they made their way across NW Europe. Split into 30 sections it gives a broad view of the wider story. Naturally there are the specific stories of the armoured units involvement, along with the successful assault by the 9th Infantry Battalion as the 3rd Infantry Brigade secured the town. Added to this though is a look at the weapons used by both sides, attackers and the German defenders, the work of the Belgian and French Resistance units who also played a part to help their liberators, and also remembers the Czech troops who were attached to the division at the time. Add some personal accounts from eye-witnesses who were there at the time, the importance of the observation points in the high towers located in the town and much more, it it a really interesting read. The book goes on to include how some Polish troops served on with the British army after WW2, as they were unable to go home as Poland fell under Soviet control, along with books of remembrance, the local military cemeteries and more.
The text is of course supported by a host of images featuring archive photos from the time, alongside many modern comparisons. Add copies of various reports and other original documents this is just packed with interest. General Maczek was determined that Ypres should not be destroyed by war for a second time, and he was able to achieve that aim, much to the relief of the Belgian civilian population. The story coupled with the many photos, which all have helpful captioning, will make a useful reference if you want to visit Ypres, and look beyond the story of WW1 to better understand the WW2 story of the town. I have no hesitation in recommending this one.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for the review copy.

Robin