Radio Operator on the Eastern Front - Erhard Steiniger

 

This is the second of my book reviews on the German soldiers’ experiences in World War II.

Erhard Steinigers autobiography ‘Radio Operator on the Eastern Front’ takes you on a journey from Conscription through Barbarossa to the battle of Leningrad and finally to being a prisoner of the Soviets.

Steiniger’s reflections saw him serve in Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Russia as a signaler in the 151st Infantry Regiment.  As a signaler he had to be at the forefront of the battle with the soldiers and this is very much a first-hand account of what that experience was like.   The horrors of war on the Eastern Front are really drawn out.

This book is exceptional well written and translated.  The autobiography does not glorify war but shows what war was like for a soldier on the ground right at the forefront of a battle.  The life and horrors that were experienced.   The over 110 illustrations and photographs throughout the books give a fascinating insight into life of Erhard Steiniger and really compliment the writing.  As a first-person account this is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the Eastern Front and learning more about what life was like.  It also, highlights battles and areas of war that some might not be familiar with and that is a real bonus that builds a picture of the war.

No matter what we think of the German army and its beliefs and command it is important to keep understanding what life was for these soldiers and these human stories need to be continued to be told.

This book is a page turner, who would have thought the life of a signaler could be so interesting, the writing grips you and really sets out the authors experiences throughout the war.   This is a worthwhile purchase.

This is a highly recommended must-read book for anyone with a fascination on the Eastern Front. 





Location: Doncaster, UK

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