The definitive account of one of history’s greatest campaigns, as remembered by the participants on land, sea, and air. Perfect for readers of Max Hastings, James Holland, and Anthony Beevor.

By mid-1942, Rommel and his Afrika Korps were driving the Allies ever further into retreat. Yet, by the end of the year, Montgomery and the Eighth Army had not only halted the lightning attacks of Rommel’s Panzer army but had also turned the tide, achieving a resounding victory at El Alamein.

How were Montgomery and his men able to defeat Rommel’s seemingly invincible army?El Alamein is a fascinating study of one of the major turning points of the Second World War. Alexander McKee gives insight into the directives coming from the British War Cabinet in the tumultuous months when Allied resistance seemed to be wavering, as well as emphasising the importance of Ultra, the British code-breaking and deciphering operation, in providing advance information about Rommel’s supply ships and troop movements.

Yet McKee not only provides an overview of the battle and the orders of those in command but also utilises accounts from British and Commonwealth ex-servicemen — the bomber pilots, submarine commanders, army officers, and soldiers — to offer insights into the crucial roles they played. This new assessment finally gives full credit to the carefully coordinated, three-pronged attack, where each element contributed to the final success.

There has never been a more complete account of the Desert War; El Alamein should be essential reading for all interested in the Second World War and one of its most important battles. .