Book excerpt: Combat History of Sturmpanzer-Abteilung 217 tells the story of the only Sturmpanzer IV equipped unit to see action on the western front. Formed in May 1944, Stu.Pz.Abt.217 fought in Normandy, Belgium, Aachen and the Ardennes Offensive before finally perishing in Ruhr pocket in April 1945.Researched over more than twenty years using hundreds of German and American records, authors Timm Haasler and Simon Vosters have meticulously retraced the steps of the battalion to offer the reader the most comprehensive coverage to date.This 284-page book is illustrated with 183-large-format photographs, ten maps and seven specially commissioned artworks by Felipe Rodna, including interior views. QR-codes feature on a number of pages, just point your smartphone camera at them to see the scene today in Google Maps or Street View.