Desert Rats at War – North Africa – Europe By George Forty

Pre-owned. DESERT RATS AT WAR reveals the two-part story of a group of British soldiers, based on reminiscences of men who lived and fought in North Africa and later in Europe during World War Il. It is lavishly Illustrated with numerous photographs. The first section describes the strange fascination and stark beauty of the barren North African desert. The fact that these soldiers readily adapted to this environment contributed to their eventual victory. By sheer fighting ability, they earned the title of Desert Rats (after the little jerboas that make their home in the inhospitable desert sand). The second section describes the wartime experiences of the Desert Rats in Europe. After the almost limitless space of the desert, they had to learn new skills and become accustomed to fighting within the constraints of close country. It was fitting, therefore, that as ‘first in and last out of the battle’, they were chosen to go to Berlin to take part in the Victory Parade of 1945.
Author George Forty looks at more than just tanks and battles. In vivid personal anecdotes and photographs (many from personal collections of Desert Rats) he has produced a unique volume of World War II history. Good condition. Good dustjacket with no tearing and a little creasing. A little scuffing, shelf wear and tanning. Some foxing, particularly to the end papers. Please see images. Hardcover. Published by Chartwell 1980