The training given to German troops in the inter-war period was probably the best of any army in the world up to that time. By the time this book was written proof of the value of that training had been seen in Poland, France and Russia. The book describes in detail the pre-military as well as military training, and puts the whole ethos of German preparations for war into context. It also covers the procurement and training of officers, and looks at leadership and the task force, aggressiveness and initiative and the use of terrain and surprise. A worthwhile addition to the library any student of the German army before and during the Second World War.