Chatterton, Andrew
Britain'S Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins During the Second World War
- ISBN 13:
- 9781636241005
- author:
- Chatterton, Andrew
- format:
- Hardback
- publisher:
- Casemate Publishers
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2022
- Pages:
- 256
- Dimensions:
- 22.8 x 15.2 centimetres (0.52 kg
- Genre:
- History, Military History, World War II,
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 4 working days
Description
Britain's Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins During the Second World War The conventional narrative of Britain's anti-invasion efforts during World War II often focuses on the Home Guard's valiant but ultimately unprepared efforts. However, a lesser-known aspect of the country's defence strategy involved the recruitment of highly trained and ruthless civilian volunteers, who played a crucial role in countering a potential German invasion. These secret forces, comprising saboteurs, guerrilla fighters, spies, and observers, were mobilized as early as the summer of 1940. Their activities would have been monitored by wireless operators and ATS women in disguised bunkers, and they were also involved in setting up post-occupation groups of civilians to act as sabotage cells and assassins. The commitment to secrecy was absolute, with many of these individuals keeping their role a secret even from their closest family members. For the first time, the remarkable story of Britain's civilian saboteurs, spies, and assassins is being brought to light, shedding new light on a previously overlooked chapter in the country's wartime history.