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The Guns of Normandy: A Soldier's Eye View, France 1944 Paperback – April 26, 1997

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 33 ratings

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In the weeks after D-Day, the level of artillery action in Normandy was unprecedented. In what was a relatively small area, both sides bombarded each other relentlessly for three months, each trying to overwhelm the other by sheer fire power.

The Guns of Normandy puts the reader in the front lines of this horrific battle. In the most graphic and authentic detail, it brings to life every aspect of a soldier’s existence, from the mortal terror of impending destruction, to the unending fatigue, to the giddy exhilaration at finding oneself still, inexplicably, alive.

The story of this crucial battle opens in England, as the 4th Field Regiment receives news that something big is happening in France and that after long years of training they are finally going into action. The troop ships set out from besieged London and arrive at the D-Day beaches in the appalling aftermath of the landing.

What follows is the most harrowing and realistic account of what it is like to be in action, as the very lead man in the attack: an artillery observer calling in fire on enemy positions. The story unfolds in the present tense, giving the uncomfortably real sense that “You are here.”

The conditions under which the troops had to exist were horrific. There was near-constant terror of being hit by incoming shells; prolonged lack of sleep; boredom; weakness from dysentery; sudden and gruesome deaths of close friends; and severe physical privation and mental anguish. And in the face of all this, men were called upon to perform heroic acts of bravery and they did.

Blackburn provides genuine insight to the nature of military service for the average Canadian soldier in the Second World War – something that is all too often lacking in the accounts of armchair historians and television journalists. The result is a classic account of war at the sharp end.
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Editorial Reviews

Review

“This book may well contain the greatest Canadian memories of World War II.”
–from the Trillium Award jury citation

“A very moving and poignant…account.…George Blackburn’s book is a salute to the human spirit and its ability to rise to the challenges that confront it.”
Vanguard

“Entrancing.…One of the best books to come out of the Second World War.”
Calgary Herald

“George Blackburn…brings us as close as we will ever come to the tension, savagery, and turmoil of the fighting in Normandy half a century ago. The immediacy of Blackburn’s narrative, his empathy with the fighting men, and his professional insight put
The Guns of Normandy in a class of its own as a military memoir.”
Quill & Quire

“A finer first-hand account of Canadians at war simply does not exist.”
–Tom Clark, National Editor, BBS-TV

“[Blackburn] provides details so graphic that even the most unmilitary reader can appreciate artillery warfare.
The Guns of Normandy is no glorious adventure story. Once into the front lines, war is hell.…Tension overlays every minute of every hour of every day for weeks on end.”
Books in Canada

“A remarkable book.…[It] promises to be definitive about wartime soldiering.”
Toronto Sun

“The finest personal account of the campaign in Northwest Europe written by a Canadian.…His description of what it was like to live through those desperate days…should be read by everyone who thinks that military history is about strategy and the views of generals.”
Canadians Military History

“A war book not to be missed.”
Ottawa Citizen

“Easily the best book yet produced on…the Canadian army’s bloody campaign in Normandy. In terms of describing the nightmare of a massive mechanised war from the ground-level view of somebody who was in the thick of it, it is unique.”
London Free Press

From the Inside Flap

after D-Day, the level of artillery action in Normandy was unprecedented. In what was a relatively small area, both sides bombarded each other relentlessly for three months, each trying to overwhelm the other by sheer fire power.

The Guns of Normandy puts the reader in the front lines of this horrific battle. In the most graphic and authentic detail, it brings to life every aspect of a soldier s existence, from the mortal terror of impending destruction, to the unending fatigue, to the giddy exhilaration at finding oneself still, inexplicably, alive.

The story of this crucial battle opens in England, as the 4th Field Regiment receives news that something big is happening in France and that after long years of training they are finally going into action. The troop ships set out from besieged London and arrive at the D-Day beaches in the appalling aftermath of the landing.

What follows is the most harrowing and realistic account of what it is li

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ McClelland & Stewart; First Edition (April 26, 1997)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 536 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0771015038
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0771015038
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.7 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 1.17 x 8.97 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 33 ratings

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George G. Blackburn
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4.4 out of 5 stars
33 global ratings

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Memoirs Of A Forward Observation Officer-Extraordinaire
5 out of 5 stars
Memoirs Of A Forward Observation Officer-Extraordinaire
"My narrative might stir poignant memories of comradeship and unselfish acts, and sometimes recognize acts of courage - even great courage - but never should it develop in the fashion of an adventure story, for the simple reason that a story that deals honestly with war can never be an adventure story. It may be gripping and even melodramatic in a horrible sort of way, but never, never an adventure story." ~ George G. Blackburn ~Mr. Blackburn's "The Guns of Normandy: A Soldier's Eye View, France 1944" is not an adventure story, as the author stated, but a factual story and a very detailed and vivid account of World War II in Normandy, France in 1944. He even suggested to "any reader who is looking for adventure to look elsewhere." Mr. Blackburn has that exceptional ability to use picturesque words and to realistically describe the events that took place from Normandy to Falaise between July and end of August of 1944, thus, making the readers to actually put their shoes into his. His interpretative writing and creative use of language to capture the reader's undivided attention were put to use to the fullest.To complete this remarkable historical book, Mr. Blackburn, having been a newspaper reporter himself, did an excellent task in conducting very thorough and exhaustive interviews, did a wide-ranging research, provided comprehensive footnotes as well as accurate casualty statistics, thereby making it a wealth of information about the longest two months in the history of Second World War.A very courageous and empathetic military officer, Mr. Blackburn, along with his troop, demonstrated bravery above all things and they should all be commended for their heroic acts of courage and strong will to go on amidst all the horrifying, sickening and dreadful conditions of war.One of the chapters in this interesting book that caught my attention is Chapter 62: "Comradeship," which is all about solidarity and Mr. Blackburn cleverly defined the word as "that special relationship between people who share awful conditions and whose lives depend on mutual support, which will always be a source of fascination. You used to think that it was just another word for friendship, but you know now that the most caring, sharing, selfless comrades can be men you've never met before and who will remain forever nameless, unless you meet them again under more civilized conditions someday, when in all likelihood, you'll not recognize them after the war, for their eyes will be cold and impersonal, not filled with the compassion and understanding you see in them here."What really impressed me is the fact that the author showed off his artistic side in the midst of war by writing poetry during the quietest moments in the bleak of the night, to pass the time away since he was the one on-duty in the command post all night. And he penned one beautiful piece of poetry for his lovely wife, Grace Blackburn, (who passed away in 2002) to commemorate their third wedding anniversary (August 30, 1944). And I quote:"From your pictures you're adorable, my dearFrom reports you are the lady of the yearFrom those in the know these days I've heardYou're beautiful to see -You twinkle like the candles on an anniversary!From informants you would seem to be immortal -They have booked the hall of fame and burst its portal -From "enchanting" to "alluring;" from "endearing" to "enduring,"But from memory, you're just swell my dear!"I had a rare opportunity to correspond with Mr. Blackburn after he had sent me inscribed copies of two of his trilogy of military books over a year ago. His artistic side includes being a pianist, composer/lyricist, award-winning playwright and a scriptwriter. Likewise, he had written a musical entitled "A Day To Remember." His many awards include the Legion of Honor bestowed upon him by the French Government in 2004. And to top it all, he could still host the yearly Christmas Dinners at his home in Ottawa doing all the cooking and preparations for family and some friends. He recently celebrated his 89th birthday on the 3rd of February. He's not only a remarkable and brilliant author but also a talented and creative artist in his own right. I'm so honored to have met him and corresponded with him to this day.I love reading non-fiction books as well as art, historical and biographies. I guess I have outgrown my interest in fiction, which was my main interest when I was younger. This book is so well-written, excellently-crafted, detailed, very informative, and also winners of the 1996 Edna Staebler Award for Creative Non-Fiction, the 1996/97 C.P. Stacey Award and the 1996 Ottawa Citizen Book of the Year Award.After reading this book, you'll absolutely want to read the rest of Mr. Blackburn's trilogy: "Where The Hell Are The Guns?" and "The Guns of Victory: A Soldier's Eye View, Belgium, Holland and Germany, 1944-45." Very highly recommended.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on August 13, 2013
    A very good on the ground account of the Canadian struggle with the being at the focal point of the SS panzer corps involvement in the battle for Normandy.
  • Reviewed in the United States on July 19, 2021
    I just finished reading "The Guns of Normandy" by George Blackburn. It is not about all of the guns in Normandy as it is a very specific account of the 25 pounder guns used by the Canadian Army in Normandy, and the 4th Field Royal Canadian Artillery in particular. The author served in the 4th as a FOO (Forward Observation Officer) in support of the Canadian 3rd Division. The FOOs worked up front with the Infantry and therefore suffered terrible attrition. Blackburn had several close calls that almost ended his life and he recounts with sadness the deaths of many friends who were not as lucky.

    Blackburn covers much ground in this book but his retelling of the struggle for Verrieres Ridge near Caen in July 1944 is alone worth the price of admission. He details the day to day struggles of the artilleryman and the even harder lives of the Infantry they supported with gripping details on the effectiveness of the German artillery, Nebelwerfers and mortars which caused tremendous casualties. He cites many rather sobering statistics such as the 22,134 shells expended by the 4th RCA in a single day, July 20. He ruminates on subjects like the importance of a good roof over his trench to address shrapnel and the nearly universal struggle with dysentery, a problem for which Canadian Army doctors seemed to have no ready answer. He writes in a lucid manner and manages to find humor in some of the most appalling circumstances imaginable.

    As an American I have naturally tended to focus my reading on American accounts of the Normandy Campaign. However, this tome has served as a valuable reminder that the Canadians experienced a vicious and costly campaign in Normandy, too. I highly recommend this book to anyone, and especially Americans, wanting a more balanced view of the Normandy Campaign. Indeed, it was an eye-opener for me.
  • Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2013
    The significant role of Canadian Forces in Normandy has not been extensively recognized outside Canada mainly because the come under often under the heading of British Forces.
    This account by a soldier who was there,survived and is gifted with a good pen and an understanding of History contributes towards a broader recognition of the Canadian contribution to the Normandy landings and beyond.
    The narrative is focused on the important achievements of a Canadian Artillery unit but it also goes further as it recreates quite well the atmosphere of the fighting,particularly in the area around Caen where the fighting was very intensive indeed and the battle of Falaise that was the culmination of the fight for Normandy.
    The style is interesting although a bit didactic and ponderous but it is obvious that it is honest and comes from a man that lived it all.It covers only a part of the Canadian contribution.
    In spite of this book the Americans had Ryan and the British had Hastings to name only those but the Canadians did not have and still don't a talented,world wide distribution author to make their sacrifices better known. If and when such an author emerges then this book will be an important historical source
    DVK
  • Reviewed in the United States on February 11, 2006
    "My narrative might stir poignant memories of comradeship and unselfish acts, and sometimes recognize acts of courage - even great courage - but never should it develop in the fashion of an adventure story, for the simple reason that a story that deals honestly with war can never be an adventure story. It may be gripping and even melodramatic in a horrible sort of way, but never, never an adventure story." ~ George G. Blackburn ~

    Mr. Blackburn's "The Guns of Normandy: A Soldier's Eye View, France 1944" is not an adventure story, as the author stated, but a factual story and a very detailed and vivid account of World War II in Normandy, France in 1944. He even suggested to "any reader who is looking for adventure to look elsewhere." Mr. Blackburn has that exceptional ability to use picturesque words and to realistically describe the events that took place from Normandy to Falaise between July and end of August of 1944, thus, making the readers to actually put their shoes into his. His interpretative writing and creative use of language to capture the reader's undivided attention were put to use to the fullest.

    To complete this remarkable historical book, Mr. Blackburn, having been a newspaper reporter himself, did an excellent task in conducting very thorough and exhaustive interviews, did a wide-ranging research, provided comprehensive footnotes as well as accurate casualty statistics, thereby making it a wealth of information about the longest two months in the history of Second World War.

    A very courageous and empathetic military officer, Mr. Blackburn, along with his troop, demonstrated bravery above all things and they should all be commended for their heroic acts of courage and strong will to go on amidst all the horrifying, sickening and dreadful conditions of war.

    One of the chapters in this interesting book that caught my attention is Chapter 62: "Comradeship," which is all about solidarity and Mr. Blackburn cleverly defined the word as "that special relationship between people who share awful conditions and whose lives depend on mutual support, which will always be a source of fascination. You used to think that it was just another word for friendship, but you know now that the most caring, sharing, selfless comrades can be men you've never met before and who will remain forever nameless, unless you meet them again under more civilized conditions someday, when in all likelihood, you'll not recognize them after the war, for their eyes will be cold and impersonal, not filled with the compassion and understanding you see in them here."

    What really impressed me is the fact that the author showed off his artistic side in the midst of war by writing poetry during the quietest moments in the bleak of the night, to pass the time away since he was the one on-duty in the command post all night. And he penned one beautiful piece of poetry for his lovely wife, Grace Blackburn, (who passed away in 2002) to commemorate their third wedding anniversary (August 30, 1944). And I quote:

    "From your pictures you're adorable, my dear
    From reports you are the lady of the year
    From those in the know these days I've heard
    You're beautiful to see -
    You twinkle like the candles on an anniversary!
    From informants you would seem to be immortal -
    They have booked the hall of fame and burst its portal -
    From "enchanting" to "alluring;" from "endearing" to "enduring,"
    But from memory, you're just swell my dear!"

    I had a rare opportunity to correspond with Mr. Blackburn after he had sent me inscribed copies of two of his trilogy of military books over a year ago. His artistic side includes being a pianist, composer/lyricist, award-winning playwright and a scriptwriter. Likewise, he had written a musical entitled "A Day To Remember." His many awards include the Legion of Honor bestowed upon him by the French Government in 2004. And to top it all, he could still host the yearly Christmas Dinners at his home in Ottawa doing all the cooking and preparations for family and some friends. He recently celebrated his 89th birthday on the 3rd of February. He's not only a remarkable and brilliant author but also a talented and creative artist in his own right. I'm so honored to have met him and corresponded with him to this day.

    I love reading non-fiction books as well as art, historical and biographies. I guess I have outgrown my interest in fiction, which was my main interest when I was younger. This book is so well-written, excellently-crafted, detailed, very informative, and also winners of the 1996 Edna Staebler Award for Creative Non-Fiction, the 1996/97 C.P. Stacey Award and the 1996 Ottawa Citizen Book of the Year Award.

    After reading this book, you'll absolutely want to read the rest of Mr. Blackburn's trilogy: "Where The Hell Are The Guns?" and "The Guns of Victory: A Soldier's Eye View, Belgium, Holland and Germany, 1944-45." Very highly recommended.
    Customer image
    5.0 out of 5 stars Memoirs Of A Forward Observation Officer-Extraordinaire
    Reviewed in the United States on February 11, 2006
    "My narrative might stir poignant memories of comradeship and unselfish acts, and sometimes recognize acts of courage - even great courage - but never should it develop in the fashion of an adventure story, for the simple reason that a story that deals honestly with war can never be an adventure story. It may be gripping and even melodramatic in a horrible sort of way, but never, never an adventure story." ~ George G. Blackburn ~

    Mr. Blackburn's "The Guns of Normandy: A Soldier's Eye View, France 1944" is not an adventure story, as the author stated, but a factual story and a very detailed and vivid account of World War II in Normandy, France in 1944. He even suggested to "any reader who is looking for adventure to look elsewhere." Mr. Blackburn has that exceptional ability to use picturesque words and to realistically describe the events that took place from Normandy to Falaise between July and end of August of 1944, thus, making the readers to actually put their shoes into his. His interpretative writing and creative use of language to capture the reader's undivided attention were put to use to the fullest.

    To complete this remarkable historical book, Mr. Blackburn, having been a newspaper reporter himself, did an excellent task in conducting very thorough and exhaustive interviews, did a wide-ranging research, provided comprehensive footnotes as well as accurate casualty statistics, thereby making it a wealth of information about the longest two months in the history of Second World War.

    A very courageous and empathetic military officer, Mr. Blackburn, along with his troop, demonstrated bravery above all things and they should all be commended for their heroic acts of courage and strong will to go on amidst all the horrifying, sickening and dreadful conditions of war.

    One of the chapters in this interesting book that caught my attention is Chapter 62: "Comradeship," which is all about solidarity and Mr. Blackburn cleverly defined the word as "that special relationship between people who share awful conditions and whose lives depend on mutual support, which will always be a source of fascination. You used to think that it was just another word for friendship, but you know now that the most caring, sharing, selfless comrades can be men you've never met before and who will remain forever nameless, unless you meet them again under more civilized conditions someday, when in all likelihood, you'll not recognize them after the war, for their eyes will be cold and impersonal, not filled with the compassion and understanding you see in them here."

    What really impressed me is the fact that the author showed off his artistic side in the midst of war by writing poetry during the quietest moments in the bleak of the night, to pass the time away since he was the one on-duty in the command post all night. And he penned one beautiful piece of poetry for his lovely wife, Grace Blackburn, (who passed away in 2002) to commemorate their third wedding anniversary (August 30, 1944). And I quote:

    "From your pictures you're adorable, my dear
    From reports you are the lady of the year
    From those in the know these days I've heard
    You're beautiful to see -
    You twinkle like the candles on an anniversary!
    From informants you would seem to be immortal -
    They have booked the hall of fame and burst its portal -
    From "enchanting" to "alluring;" from "endearing" to "enduring,"
    But from memory, you're just swell my dear!"

    I had a rare opportunity to correspond with Mr. Blackburn after he had sent me inscribed copies of two of his trilogy of military books over a year ago. His artistic side includes being a pianist, composer/lyricist, award-winning playwright and a scriptwriter. Likewise, he had written a musical entitled "A Day To Remember." His many awards include the Legion of Honor bestowed upon him by the French Government in 2004. And to top it all, he could still host the yearly Christmas Dinners at his home in Ottawa doing all the cooking and preparations for family and some friends. He recently celebrated his 89th birthday on the 3rd of February. He's not only a remarkable and brilliant author but also a talented and creative artist in his own right. I'm so honored to have met him and corresponded with him to this day.

    I love reading non-fiction books as well as art, historical and biographies. I guess I have outgrown my interest in fiction, which was my main interest when I was younger. This book is so well-written, excellently-crafted, detailed, very informative, and also winners of the 1996 Edna Staebler Award for Creative Non-Fiction, the 1996/97 C.P. Stacey Award and the 1996 Ottawa Citizen Book of the Year Award.

    After reading this book, you'll absolutely want to read the rest of Mr. Blackburn's trilogy: "Where The Hell Are The Guns?" and "The Guns of Victory: A Soldier's Eye View, Belgium, Holland and Germany, 1944-45." Very highly recommended.
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Elov Simmons
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great book.
    Reviewed in Canada on June 27, 2021
    It should sit on top with "All quiet on the western front" as one of the greatest books written about a soldiers day to day life during the second world war
  • James D Beaton
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent read !
    Reviewed in Canada on October 30, 2020
    A very informative review of the alarming state of Canada's military preparedness in September 1939 but amazing diligence and hardships in correcting this deficiency resulting in major contributions and human sacrifices in the Allied war effort..
  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars the only book on the Canadian Forces in WW2 that ...
    Reviewed in Canada on March 2, 2018
    the only book on the Canadian Forces in WW2 that allows the reader to become immersed in the day to day experiences of our soldiers while serving in Europe. Blackburn's prose literally brings the smell, noise, and fears experienced by our troops to life.
  • Edgrnjr
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book involving a Cdn Army
    Reviewed in Canada on December 20, 2016
    Excellent book involving a Cdn Army, artillery Regt.(4th Fld). Covers them in their actions thru Normandy up to the Falaise Gap in 1944.Its a great read and gives you a personal impression of what it must be like to be in action with an artillery regt.
  • James I. Raeside
    5.0 out of 5 stars The best written account of the life and ordeal of frontline ...
    Reviewed in Canada on August 5, 2014
    The best written account of the life and ordeal of frontline soldiers in the Battle of Normandy and one of universal applicability to combat in modern warfare.