M A R K F O R S D I K E
H I S T O R I A N A N D A U T H O R
BOOKS
Fighting Through To Hitler's Germany is my first book which was published in May 2020 by Pen & Sword.
It tells the story of the 1st Battalion, the Suffolk Regiment, and their part in the North West Europe campaign of 1944-45. It draws heavily on the accounts of those who were there.
From D-Day to VE-Day, the 1st Battalion fought across Europe, suffering heavy losses, but it often succeeding where others had failed and on more than one occasion, its actions helped turn the tide of battle. They were always fighting when the reporters came calling, and so their legacy in the press of the time was minimal.
I have spent over twenty years closely associated with the Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association, and in particular, the veterans of the NW Europe campaign. It was their self-effacing modesty to continually downplay their part in the campaign, that convinced me that they deserved to have their story told.
Over five years in its preparation, the book contains the personal accounts and testimonies of over one hundred veterans of the Battalion. Accompanied by detailed maps and many previously unpublished photographs, it is the first detailed volume to be written on their part in the campaign since 1994.
You can read more about the men, the Battalion and their campaign by clicking on the photographs at the bottom of the page. If you would like to purchase a copy of the book, please click on the link below which will take you direct to Pen & Sword's website and do please read some of the reviews of the book below.
Soldier Magazine - Top 5 books of 2020
REVIEWS
"What makes this book stand out from the crowd is the obvious passion of Mark Forsdike coupled with his forensic knowledge of his subject. Military historians and, Battlefield Guides in particular, overuse the 'P' word...and yet, not all can convert their passion into a credible and coherent narrative. Not so, Mr Forsdike, this really is a quality piece of work on the Suffolks and the WW2 British Tommy.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, I felt as if I was inside the Suffolks looking out, not just an interested spectator. Although written in a well-tried modern style, It has the feel of a post-war classic"
"The book brings life to the story of in this case World War II, and gives an insight into what this war was like. The author deserves praise for the way he has presented the words of these men, as it makes for a very engaging read"
"An affectionate and often gripping account of the officers and men of 1st Battalion The Suffolk Regiment"
"Every battalion that fought in World War Two should have a history written for it like this"
"If you want to learn the real story of how the Second World war was won in Europe read this book"
"One of the best Battalion Histories I've ever read. Superb testimony, accurate history and easy to follow maps for todays traveller. I just wish all books of this genre could be as good as this"
"Rating out of 5: 6"
"What can I say about this book, well this is probably the best book that I have read all year. I really have to commend the author Mark Forsdike for writing such a riveting read that I couldn’t put down. What shines through the book and really does hit home is the sheer bravery and courage of these men in such devastating circumstances. I will happily give this book a 5 star read, and it will definitely be in my Top Ten books of the year, as I will wholeheartedly recommend it to any fans of WW2 history"
"I give this book a 5 out of 5"
"This is a fantastic book that provides a great well researched insight and captures the harsh reality of war. Although focused upon 1 Suffolk I would recommend it as an essential book for fans of D-Day or the liberation of Europe. Highly recommended"
"Mark Forsdike is to be congratulated for pulling together this account of the battalion’s arduous time in France and Germany from the date on which it set foot ashore on the beaches of northern France in June 1944, until VE Day eleven months later"
Soldier Magazine - book of year 2020
The Men
The Battalion
The Legacy