East African and Abyssinian Campaigns by Orpen, Neil

(Cape Town: Purnell, 1968). Volume I in the series 'South African Forces World War II'. 8vo; original blue boards, with gilt lettering to spine; price-clipped pictorial dustwrapper; pp. xiv + 390, incl. index; several maps and battle plans, incl. folding; plates. Gift inscription to front free endpaper; occasional fox spot. Very good condition. "The East African and Abyssinian Campaigns tells in authoritative detail for the first time the full story of South Africa's outstanding contribution to victory in East Africa in 1940-1. At the same time it provides a complete history of the series of operations directed by East Africa Force which, in conjunction with those carried out under Sudan Force in Eritrea, resulted in the first totally successful campaign conducted by the Allies in World War II. No other theatre of war during 1939-45 presented quite the same problems as East Africa and Abyssinia, and in no other theatre was any British commander so well served by fighting units and formations which - apart from a few Indian gunners - came entirely from Africa. ... This is the authoritative and stirring story of a great achievement, to which South Africa, in fighting men, in the provision of vital equipment, technical knowledge and continuous support, made the most invaluable contribution, while working in the closest co-operation with the British authorities and with the other African formations who fought at her side." .