Eagle Editions | Graf and Grislawski - A Pair of Aces
Reviewed by Mark Proulx
Hardcover
8 1/2" x 11''
312 Pages
ISBN 0-9721060-4-9
An important new book has just been released by Eagle Editions. The book, entitled Graf and Grislawski: A Pair of Aces, details the lives of two of the Luftwaffe's famous Experten. The book is written by Christer Bergstrom and is assisted by Vlad Antipov and Claes Sundin. Alfred Grislawski also co-operated with the project.
Alfred Grislawski and Hermann Graf fought side by side in some of the harshest conditions that were found on the Eastern Front. The authors detail their experiences from the outset of hostilities, thru their missions on the Eastern Front and the Goering Mutiny of January 1945. It culminates with their captivity at the hands of the Russians. The later is the most controversial, given the harsh treatment received by Graf from his former colleagues, as a result of his alleged co-operation with the Russians. The authors detail this period in time with recently uncovered documents from Russian POW archives, which included Graf's complete file.
There is also two complete appendix's listing the confirmed aerial victories accredited to these two pilots. Page after page details the type of aircraft destroyed by date, location and Opponent.
The book is 312 pages in length and is extensively illustrated with more than 300 photos, many never before seen. The majority of the photos are from Mr Grislawski's private collection or Traditionsgemeinschaft JG 52. Claes Sundin provides 26 superb color profiles.
I am sure that the color side profiles created by Claes Sundin are familiar to many. The profiles are superb, and have to be considered among the best available today. Unfortunately, color data is not included leaving many modelers to speculate. Decals for each scheme will be available soon from Eagle Editions, available in all popular scales.
Unfortunately, Alfred Grislawski recently passed away being pre-deceased by Hermann Graf. At least he was able to see the final results of his efforts. I am informed the book was at his bedside when he passed away. I hope it brought a measure of peace to him. I recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the famous Aces of WW II.
Review Sample Compliments of Eagle Editions.
© Mark Proulx 2003
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This review was published on Saturday, July 02 2011; Last modified on Wednesday, May 18 2016