Churchill's Secret Weapons

The Story of Hobart's Funnies
by Patrick Delaforce

Reviewed by Kenn Hart

What an eye-opener! Having spent a few years in the Armoured Engineers, post WWII, I had no trouble relating to some of the stories told in this truly excellent book. It was delivered just before Xmas and I managed to read it in only two sittings, because I was so engrossed. Ever noticed in the wargaming world how a book, film or article can just tie in nicely with your latest project - well having just 'done' the Normandy Landings (D-Day itself), this book came just right for the follow-on battles that are planned for 1999. However, seeing as how I am playing the Germans I really should keep this information from the Allied players, in order to maintain some sort of edge. I have actually let the guys know of its existence and at least one is sending off for it.

It is an highly informative book, gives a deep insight into the background activities of Churchill and his minions during the dark period in our history and is definitely a reference book which every WWII enthusiast must have. The behind the scenes details are interlaced with personal stories from the men on the ground and who did the job, plus in places the details of a tanks crew are mentioned which makes it easy for anyone wishing to do a skirmish game.

I can see the knock on effect for wargaming manufacturers when gamers realise they need more Crocodiles, AVREs, ARVs, Crabs, Kangaroo's, Snakes, Terrapins, Wasp, Weasels or Porpoises. If you want to build a British armoured division why not try the 79th.

"The 79th Armoured Division was unique in many respects. No other Division was 'all armoured'. No other Division achieved a size of over 1,500 tanks. No other Division had the responsibility of introducing and proving the value of so many new and important weapons." Major General P C S Hobart. 20 August 1945.

This is a must for any former 'Armoured Farmer' or gamers that are interested in post Normandy WWII in the European theatre.

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