Storming Monte: La Difensa The First Special Ser...

: As an associate member of the First Special Service Force Association who regularly attends veteran reunions, Werner brings a clear passion and specialized knowledge to the text, though some critics suggest his deep admiration for the unit occasionally borders on bias.

: Reviewers from sites like Warfare History Network and Amazon Canada praise Werner for blending rigorous historical analysis with vivid first-hand accounts and veteran testimonials. This "bottom-up" approach places readers directly into the freezing, muddy trenches alongside the soldiers rather than focusing solely on the strategizing of high-ranking generals. Storming Monte La Difensa The First Special Ser...

The following review summarizes the historical accounts and critical reception of Bret Werner's book, . Review: A Gripping Look at "Mission Impossible" : As an associate member of the First

: As part of the Osprey Raid Series, the book is noted for its high-quality production, including full-color battlescenes by Peter Dennis, detailed maps, and archive photographs that highlight the specific weaponry and uniforms of the era. Readers on Amazon found the history clear and easy to follow without being overly technical. The following review summarizes the historical accounts and

: The book doesn't shy away from the grim reality of the mission. While the FSSF achieved what was deemed "impossible" by scaling a vertical 200-meter cliff in total darkness, the victory came at a staggering 77 percent casualty rate . Werner provides critical analysis of how the unit was often misused by Allied command as "conventional shock troops".

: This is a highly recommended introduction for readers interested in the Italian Campaign or the origins of modern special forces.

Bret Werner’s Storming Monte La Difensa provides a concise yet immersive account of one of World War II’s most daring feats: the 1943 assault on a German mountain stronghold by the joint US-Canadian First Special Service Force (FSSF), later known as the " Black Devils ".