The Battle of the Bulge, first published in 1947 as Dark December (and published here in a slightly abridged edition), is a detailed account of the German Army's last major offensive of World War II. Presented from both Allied and German viewpoints, the book examines events leading up to the offensive, the massive engagement of German forces against unprepared American units, and finally the turning back of the defeated German Wehrmacht. Author Robert E. Merriam, former chief of the Ardennes section of the U.S. Army Historical Division, had the unique opportunity-both during and after the battle-to interview leaders and sit in on important staff meetings. When the war ended, he was able to talk to German officers and to examine battle records of both sides. Included are 8 pages of maps.