The author explodes many of the myths of this celebrated operation - myths about the role played by French troops at Dunkirk, and the strategic coordination - or the lack of it - at the highest military and political levels. Harman reveals the conflicts, deceptions and ruthlessness that plagued the rescue, explaining how the heroic legend of Dunkirk was a crucial factor in the allied victory - and why the myth has survived unchallenged for so many years.