I actually read this book years ago and just recently "re-found" it in my library. I will tell you that, from what I remember, this is a very informative and interesting book that can be hard to put down at times. Mr. Laffin apparently fought against the Germans in WWII and one can sense his admiration (somewhat reluctantly) for the German infantryman. He also comes across as someone who has done his homework and applied it successfully in this truly original work. Very refreshing. ( )

3795. Jackboot: The Story of the German Soldier, by John Laffin (read 4 Sept 2003) This book by an Australian who has written over 100 books (60 of which concern war and military history) was published in 1965 and tells of the German soldier from 1713 to 1945--and ends up saying the spirit of Frederick the Great and Nazi traditions survive and will rise again (which words don't sound very prophetic right now). Laffin studies mostly secondary sources and quotes liberally from them, so has some stirring things to tell about German soldiers thru the years. An enjoyable book to read, though I wondered if I learned anything new. ( )