In April 1945, the US 71st Infantry Division conquered Germany's 6th SS Mountain Division. The author argues that this battle proves that Germany's final combat formations fought as fiercely as their predecessors and inflicted many casualties. The book details the actions of both the 6th SS Mountain Division and the US 71st Infantry Division from their beginnings through their final battle, from the perspectives of the soldiers and civilians involved on both sides, drawing on correspondence by soldiers and interviews with veterans. Illustrated with 30 b&w historical photos and 11 maps, the work includes a glossary of terms and equipment as well as an appendix on order of battle. An extensive bibliography lists books, unpublished and privately published manuscripts, magazines and newspapers, and official reports and government publications. Rusiecki is dean of academics and deputy commandant of the US Army Inspector General School at Fort Belvoir, VA. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)