Combat Operations of the German Ordnungspolizei, 1939-1945

Brief Summary

Combat Operations of the German Ordnungspolizei, 1939-1945 by Rolf Michaelis provides an in-depth exploration of the roles and actions of the German Ordnungspolizei during World War II. Known as the Order Police, these regular uniformed policemen were involved in a range of operations including frontline combat and security duties in occupied countries. The book delves into their unit formations, key personalities, and operations, offering a detailed look at their less-known combat activities. Significantly, it also addresses the involvement of some battalions in ethnic cleansing atrocities, thus shedding light on a darker aspect of their history. The book is enriched with rare photographs, documents, soldbuchs, and maps, making it a comprehensive resource on this topic.

Main Themes and Topics

The book focuses on several important themes, chief among them being the dual role of the Ordnungspolizei during World War II. While they were primarily seen as regular police, their contributions to frontline combat and their responsibilities in occupied territories highlight a complex role that went beyond standard policing duties. Rolf Michaelis discusses the organizational structure and the strategic significance of these forces in various military operations.

Another central theme is the examination of the Ordnungspolizei’s involvement in ethnic cleansing and atrocities during the war. The author does not shy away from the darker aspects of their operations, providing a critical perspective on how these forces were complicit in and contributed to the broader war crimes committed by Nazi Germany. This section is particularly enriched by photographic evidence and primary documents presented in the book.

Writing Style and Tone

Rolf Michaelis adopts a meticulous and factual writing style, appropriate for the historical examination of the Ordnungspolizei's operations. His tone is direct and informative, seeking to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The inclusion of rare photos and documents complements the text effectively, providing a visual dimension that enhances the reader's engagement with the historical content.

Criticism

While Combat Operations of the German Ordnungspolizei, 1939-1945 is a thorough investigation of the Order Police’s wartime activities, some readers may find the book's heavy reliance on military terminology and structures challenging to navigate without prior knowledge of World War II history. Additionally, the gruesome details regarding their involvement in atrocities may be distressing for some readers, although this is an unavoidable aspect of providing a complete account of their actions.