The battle for the Cotentin peninsula began on D-Day and witnessed some of the most intense fighting of the Normandy campaign, with heavy losses on both sides. The vital port of Cherbourg was liberated in late June, but the battle to clear the peninsula continued well into July.

This six-week battle of attrition set the stage for the decisive American breakout from the Bocage yet has been largely overlooked. Indeed, the German forces involved have never before been adequately studied. By analysing German records, accounts, and Allied intelligence, Niels Henkemans reconstructs the battle through the eyes of the units involved.

The first in a multi-volume series, Defending Normandy Vol.1A looks at the role of the LXXXIV. A.K. in the evolution of the defence of Normandy, starting in 1941. It also examines infantry divisions in general and two in particular during the fighting in the summer of 1944. By focusing on formations, the series provides a deeper insight into the fighting than can be achieved by a traditional campaign approach. Vol.1B will continue with four more divisions.

Defending Normandy offers the reader unprecedented detail on the formations discussed. Every unit’s organisation, equipment, pre-invasion history, and tactical role on the Cotentin are scrutinised. Dozens of maps, photographs, and graphics accompany this unique unit-based exploration of the Cotentin campaign.

The book can be ordered directly from Panzerwrecks here