With the paperback release of DEVIL’S GENERAL, we thought our readers might like to get to know more about author Ray Bagdonas
Where were you born? Where did you grow up?
Born in Germany of Lithuanian parentage. Grew up, married, and raised a family in Australia.
Could you tell us a bit about any history of military service in your family? In what ways was the military part of your life from an early age?
Served 3 years in the Australian Army- Infantry at age 17. Served as officer (Lieutenant) of Army cadets
What kinds of books did you read growing up? Which had the greatest impact on you?
I have been reading WWII books and military history for the past 45 years with extra emphasis on the eastern front. I have a personal library of over 300 books on WWII
What did you do before you started (or in addition to) writing? Did you have any odd jobs?
I had a McDonalds franchise for 19 years.
How much research did you do for the book? Can you give us some tips on this?
I have been researching Graf von Strachwitz on and off for manY years with an intensive fulltime effort over the past two years.
Why did you decide to write this book? What prompted you to put this story down on paper?
No bio had been written on him since the 1960s and I had been researching him over many years. Running my business took all my time so I waited until my retirement to start writing.
How long did it take you to write it?
Over a year fulltime.
What do you like most about your book? Why should we read it?
It’s a damn good read and has a lot in dealing with the two wars and the turbulent times the Graf lived in. He was one of Germany’s most decorated and promoted (in rank) of Germany’s war heroes and arguably its ablest regimental commanders. His extraordinary exploits read like a work of fiction.
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