Army of Worn Soles (The Eastern Front Trilogy Book 1)

Description

One word characterized the Red Army in 1941: retreat. By September, they were down to half-rations. The regiments had to steal water from the farms they were supposed to be defending. Soldiers’ boots fell apart after hundreds of kilometres of retreating across thick mud that threatened to swallow men whole. Divisions ran out of ammunition every day, and the army could not replace damaged uniforms.

While the officers had sturdy leather boots, the enlisted men’s boots were leather only on the lower section. The uppers were felt, which shredded quickly. By fall, the boots fell apart, and Maurice saw men wrap their feet in newspapers.

Newspapers filled with propaganda about how we’re beating the Germans back. Wrapping feet is all they’re good for.