Finnish Soldier vs Soviet Soldier: Winter War 1939–40 (Combat)

It's 1939. Little Finland faces the prospect of an imminent invasion by an aggressive Soviet Union, fresh from dismembering Poland with Nazi Germany. Vastly outnumbered, Finland must choose capitulation or a desperate and hopeless resistance. The Finns chose resistance. What happened next was the miracle of the Winter War..."Combat: Finnish Soldier Versus Soviet Soldier" is an Osprey Combat Series book, authored by David Campbell, with illustrations by Johnny Shumate. The narrative discusses the two side, including the mismatch of forces, before dissecting three different combats. The first two combat relate to the nearly miraculous survival of the outnumbered Finnish forces against Soviet Divisions who enjoyed many advantages, except preparation for combat in deadly winter conditions. The Finns, adept on skis in the forests, took advantage of the weather and terrain to baffle, attrite, and ultimately defeat the initial Soviet thrusts into Finland. The third combat reflects a regrouping by the Soviets, and a willingness to apply overwhelming force, regardless of casualties.The text is nicely supplemented by period photographs, maps, battle diagrams, and illustrations. The narrative itself is evenhanded, recognizing the pluck of the Finns, the stubborn determination of their Soviet counterparts, and the absolute ruthlessness of the Soviet High Command. This is a concise but highly readable introduction into the Winter War of 1939-1940. Highly recommended.

Excellent concise history of the 1939-40 Winter War in which Stalin ordered a Russian invasion of tiny Finland. He expected a pushover but got a bloodbath for the Russian military. The Russians even took a brass band along in the initial invasion to celebrate their victory. They wouldn't need it. The Russians had the material advantages: numbers, tanks, artillery, airplanes and other equipment. The Finns had sissu, Mannerheim and the winter. Marshal Mannerheim summed it up well, reporting at the beginning of the conflict that the army was deficient in all respects save morale.This book presents a balanced portrait of the Russian and Finnish soldiers and an accurate short history of the war. Well written and illustrated with photographs, art and maps. One of the best Winter War books in my library.

When Hitler's erstwhile ally Stalin moved into eastern Poland and the Baltic States as part of share of the booty, Stalin decided to add a large chunk of Finland to his empire. Unfortunately for Stalin, Finland turned out to be able to defend itself.This book looks at the Finnish soldier and his opponent the Red Army Man during the Winter War. The Finns may not have been ten feet tall, but they were fighting for their homes and even though they had to bring a lot of their own gear that was good too: their civilian gear was ideal for the icy forests of Finland. The Red Army Man, on the other hand, was poorly equipped, badly trained and led by officers of varying quality who had survived the purges. At least initially, though, their morale was high as they were fed a bunch of propaganda.An interesting assessment, well-illustrated by photographs and original artwork. A good reference for those reading about the Winter War, or a fine book in its own right.

A gift for my son. He likes to complete series and this was one in the series. He is a history buff and enjoys learning more about various combats/wars. Good illustrations, easy read.

Great read, that gives me much respect for the out-numbered Finns who excelled protecting their country.

Very informative and easy read. The book is concise and descriptive. Illustrations and maps easy to interpret. You learn to admire the Finns.

Parts are good, but the coverage is limited to a few examples.

A David and Goliath story. Loved reading about the Finns creativity and balls during their struggle against a bully neighbor.

EXCELLENT ! In only 80 pages packed with illustrations, superb maps, photographs and very readable text ; David Campbell sums up the Winter War for anyone interested in the subject. I would go so far as to say if the subject MIGHT interest you ... Buy this book and it will ! I live in Finland and as the son of the British Military Attache 1966-68 I met many of the officers who fought in the Winter War. I have read books on the subject in Finnish & in English and this is definitely the most succinct and communicates the subject matter in an interesting manner. Strongly recommended to anyone who wants to know a lot about the WInter War without having to learn Finnish or wading through weighty historical tomes.

David Campbell writes well and the book hangs together nicely, with the result that exactly the right degree of detail is injected to keep the reader fully engaged. Finland's 'Winter War' is a fascinating one, and this book provides a satisfying insight into its impact, not only on Finland, but also on the mighty Russian Army; lessons learned in this campaign undoubtedly helped Russia in the fight against Nazi Germany. This is a quick read but, nevertheless, is a surprisingly coherent and satisfying one.

weak on analysis on weapons uniforms and tactics

good useful information for wargaming

fine