War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 8. Juni 1944
16.00
III. Platoon of 10. Kompanie and about 4 assault guns attacked the enemies group in the centre, which had achieved a breakthrough. Furthermore, the Stab of 6. Batterie/ArtRgt 191 supported also this counter attack.Despite heavy loses of 10. Kompanie, this force was able to destroy the main bulk of the armor and beat back the enemy infantry supporting this armor.
In the South, 9. Kompanie was able to stop the enemy at the eastern outskirts of Elleville. All enemy attempts to further penetrate were repulsed with heavy losses for tehe enemy.
In the North our counter attack was very successful and succeeded in retaking all lost crossroads.
The enemy forces stop their attack and are now retreating in all areas. Combat action in all areas came to an end. We were able to hold our position despite own heavy losses, especially of 10. and 12. Kompanie.10, Kompanie is nearly wiped out. 12. Kompanie had high losses ij its MG platoons. 9. und 11. kompanie lost about 1/3 of their strength. Losses of the assault gun battery and the 88 battery were very light.
The performanc of 11. Kompanie and the assault gun battery, even the leader of the battery was killed., was outstanding.
Result:
Marginal victory
Losses
Own US
Men 507 886
Artillery 3 -
Soft verhicle 4 -
AFV 2 44
Points 17,410 3,628
WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
Moderator: MOD_SPWaW
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 10. Juni 1944
The Jäger-companies of the battle group were refreshed with the remnants of I/FJR 6 who where able to fight their way out of the pocket near St. Come du Mont and reached Carentan. However, this was not enough to rebuild the battle group after its heavy losses from the battle on the 8. Juni. 10. Kompanie has now about 50 % of its OOB-strength. 9. Kompanie and 10. Kompanie have about 70% to 80 % of their OOB- strength. 12. Kompanie has lost one MG platoon. Other losses of 12.Kompanie were marginal and could be replaced. All other parts of the battle group have full strength.
It was decided to retreat the battle group to Carentan to take an entrenched position north of the Douve river. Here, the engineer company of FJR 6 has recently build some entrechments, tank obstacles and minefields. This decision was made since the remaining troops of 91., 709. and 243. Grenadierdivisions have already reached Carentan and it is thought that the retreat will buy time because the enemy will follow us only slowly after loosing about 2/3 of a tank battalion in yesterday's fight. Finally the nort bank of the Douve will provide relatively well prepared and camouflaged position. This might enable us to better defend Carentan than in a more forward position.
To defend Carentan against the proposed massive US assault the battle group was reinforced with the last 4 75mm PaK guns of 243. Grenadierdivision. Furthermore a battery of 105mm LGs has been detached to the battle group. Additionally, an engineer platoon of 243. GrenDiv will support us as well as 2 captured Sherman tanks and APCs. Finally, the light fieldhowitzer (105mm) battalion of Art. 243 will provide indirect fire support to us.
It is assumed that the enemy will attack in the the next day(s).
The Jäger-companies of the battle group were refreshed with the remnants of I/FJR 6 who where able to fight their way out of the pocket near St. Come du Mont and reached Carentan. However, this was not enough to rebuild the battle group after its heavy losses from the battle on the 8. Juni. 10. Kompanie has now about 50 % of its OOB-strength. 9. Kompanie and 10. Kompanie have about 70% to 80 % of their OOB- strength. 12. Kompanie has lost one MG platoon. Other losses of 12.Kompanie were marginal and could be replaced. All other parts of the battle group have full strength.
It was decided to retreat the battle group to Carentan to take an entrenched position north of the Douve river. Here, the engineer company of FJR 6 has recently build some entrechments, tank obstacles and minefields. This decision was made since the remaining troops of 91., 709. and 243. Grenadierdivisions have already reached Carentan and it is thought that the retreat will buy time because the enemy will follow us only slowly after loosing about 2/3 of a tank battalion in yesterday's fight. Finally the nort bank of the Douve will provide relatively well prepared and camouflaged position. This might enable us to better defend Carentan than in a more forward position.
To defend Carentan against the proposed massive US assault the battle group was reinforced with the last 4 75mm PaK guns of 243. Grenadierdivision. Furthermore a battery of 105mm LGs has been detached to the battle group. Additionally, an engineer platoon of 243. GrenDiv will support us as well as 2 captured Sherman tanks and APCs. Finally, the light fieldhowitzer (105mm) battalion of Art. 243 will provide indirect fire support to us.
It is assumed that the enemy will attack in the the next day(s).
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 11. Juni 1944
The battle group has taken an improved position around Carentan with the task to defend the town and the crossings over Douve and Madeleine.
The bridges in the West and in the East have been blocked with mines and wire. Destruction was not possible because the battle group and FJR 6 have no explosives anymore. The battle group has taken positions as follows:
The Eastern Bridge and the Town La Douane are defended by an engineer platoon of 91. GrenDiv and II./12. Kompanie (MG). For AT defence a PaK platoon of PzJg Btn 191 equipped with 75 mm PaK was added. Furthermore, snipers and reckon elements of the battle-group are entrenched at the Dyke in the North of this bridge as well as in a small forest at the river bank south of the bridge. This will allow crossfire in the flanks and the back of the attacking enemy.
The central part of the front is defended by 9. Kompanie with one platoon in the northern town and a platoon southwest of this town and east of the Dyke. The platoon is reinforced by III./12. Kompanie (75 mm LG) and 2 captured Sherman tanks. The last platoon is positioned southwest of the central town and holds connection with 11. Kompanie which defends the Western bridge. 11. Kompanie is reinforced by 2 105 mm LG and 1 platoon of our 88mm FLAK battery.
The other guns of the FlaK battery are entrenched at vital crossroads around Carentan. In the city, 10. Kompanie has taken position and important crossroads and erected roadblocks with mine fields because it is the weakest company of the battle group. The StuG Battery is hold back as reserve together with 10. Kompanie.
7.30
The enemy has started his attack with heavy artillery fire on many crossroads near Carentan and the river banks. Furthermore, he established a smoke screen at both bridges. Only minimal losses are suffered.
Snipers and spotters at the river banks report strong armour concentrations at the bridges and some assault boats and barges at both sides of the bridges. Additionally, ca. in the middle between the Northern town and the Western bridge the enemy found a ford and crosses the Madeleine River. After a short fire fight, the crossing attempt is stopped with losses for the enemy caused by an 88 gun. One captured Sherman is lost in this fire fight. Spotters report that they hear many detonations. It is assumed that the enemy tries to take the bridges quickly and accepts high losses to achieve this.
Our artillery fire is concentrated on the bridges. Some assault boats and barges were knocked out and sunk.
7:45
Infantry has crossed the Douve in the Southeast corner of our operational area and moves in direction to La Douane. This attack is repulsed with heavy losses for the enemy by II./12 Kompanie. The flat terrain here is a deadly trap for the enemy because the advancing infantrymen are easy targets for MG42 of the MG platoon posititioned here. First tanks of the enemy have crossed the bridges and are approaching in direction to Carentan. This first attack could be beaten off with several tanks destroyed by PaK and FlaK. One PaK malfunctioned and is evacuated.
8:00
The enemy renewed his attack at both bridges. Despite heavy losses he achieved some success in the West. This was caused by heavy air bombardment on our position here. The attacks hit especially our 88 battery and destroyed 2 guns. Enemy infantry has reached the defending 11. Kompanie. One squad is encircled but holds its position. Another squad has to retreat. Both squads suffered heavy losses.
Because the AT defence of 11. Kompanie is seriously crippled and it is assumed that the enemy will achieve a breakthrough here in the next 15 minutes 3/StuGAbt 202 has been released. The tanks will be concentrated in the West to create a locally superior force and destroy the enemy armour here. The encircled platoon is covered with smoke to avoid long-range fire on it.
8:30
The counter attack in the West starts successfully. Some enemy tanks are destroyed. However, operating our tanks is dangerous because the enemy’s air superiority stops every movement in the open. The enemy concentrates his air attacks on our armour. 2 StuG are already destroyed. Every 88 gun is subject to air attacks after 4 shots. We were able to rescue the encircled squad which is down to 3 Jäger.
In the East, the enemy suffered further heavy losses. The position of the AT defence seems to be very favourable because every tank was knocked out with only minor losses for us yet. The resistance nest on the river banks repulsed several enemy attacks with infantry and tanks.
Both bridges are under permanent own artillery fires which stops especially enemy infantry.
9:00
Radio problems stopped our artillery fire in the East. This and heavy air bombardment on our PaK guns allowed enemy troops to cross the river and to further approach. In the West we lost further tanks to enemy air attacks. However, the battle group has the impression that the enemy is stopped here. Therefore, the remaining 4 StuGs are directed to the East.
10. Kompanie has been alarmed and is moved with its bulk to the east to strengthen our defence there. The enemy has infiltrated our frontline in the east. Olt. Koschnick. Leader of Fla Batterie 112 (88 guns) was killed in action. A part of the enemy force now tries to infiltrate La Douane from the Northeast. Strong infantry (at least 2 platoons) have crossed the Douve and moves in direction to Carentan.
9:30
Our counterattack in the East is stopped by fire from enemy tanks and air attacks. Olt. Franzius, leader of 11. Kompanie was killed in this attack in a fight with enemy engineers armed with flame throwers.
In the West, the enemy attack could be stopped with losses on both sides. Now, only two StuG remain operable. However, most crews survived. The resistance nest in the southeast still holds it position despite heavy losses. Here, Uffz. Rittenhaus who together with his MG squad has beaten off several attacks of a far superior enemy was finally killed in action.
11.00
The enemy retreats and evacuates the bridgeheads. The battle group has still to perform some mopping-up actions but it is clear that the enemy has lost the battle with heavy losses for him
Own losses are
Men 255
Artillery 5
Soft vehicle 2
APC 4
AFV 8
Enemy losses
Men 1,296
Artillery 1
Soft vehicle 4
APC 47
AFV 79
Dec. Victory
23,678 points to 3.816 points
The battle group has taken an improved position around Carentan with the task to defend the town and the crossings over Douve and Madeleine.
The bridges in the West and in the East have been blocked with mines and wire. Destruction was not possible because the battle group and FJR 6 have no explosives anymore. The battle group has taken positions as follows:
The Eastern Bridge and the Town La Douane are defended by an engineer platoon of 91. GrenDiv and II./12. Kompanie (MG). For AT defence a PaK platoon of PzJg Btn 191 equipped with 75 mm PaK was added. Furthermore, snipers and reckon elements of the battle-group are entrenched at the Dyke in the North of this bridge as well as in a small forest at the river bank south of the bridge. This will allow crossfire in the flanks and the back of the attacking enemy.
The central part of the front is defended by 9. Kompanie with one platoon in the northern town and a platoon southwest of this town and east of the Dyke. The platoon is reinforced by III./12. Kompanie (75 mm LG) and 2 captured Sherman tanks. The last platoon is positioned southwest of the central town and holds connection with 11. Kompanie which defends the Western bridge. 11. Kompanie is reinforced by 2 105 mm LG and 1 platoon of our 88mm FLAK battery.
The other guns of the FlaK battery are entrenched at vital crossroads around Carentan. In the city, 10. Kompanie has taken position and important crossroads and erected roadblocks with mine fields because it is the weakest company of the battle group. The StuG Battery is hold back as reserve together with 10. Kompanie.
7.30
The enemy has started his attack with heavy artillery fire on many crossroads near Carentan and the river banks. Furthermore, he established a smoke screen at both bridges. Only minimal losses are suffered.
Snipers and spotters at the river banks report strong armour concentrations at the bridges and some assault boats and barges at both sides of the bridges. Additionally, ca. in the middle between the Northern town and the Western bridge the enemy found a ford and crosses the Madeleine River. After a short fire fight, the crossing attempt is stopped with losses for the enemy caused by an 88 gun. One captured Sherman is lost in this fire fight. Spotters report that they hear many detonations. It is assumed that the enemy tries to take the bridges quickly and accepts high losses to achieve this.
Our artillery fire is concentrated on the bridges. Some assault boats and barges were knocked out and sunk.
7:45
Infantry has crossed the Douve in the Southeast corner of our operational area and moves in direction to La Douane. This attack is repulsed with heavy losses for the enemy by II./12 Kompanie. The flat terrain here is a deadly trap for the enemy because the advancing infantrymen are easy targets for MG42 of the MG platoon posititioned here. First tanks of the enemy have crossed the bridges and are approaching in direction to Carentan. This first attack could be beaten off with several tanks destroyed by PaK and FlaK. One PaK malfunctioned and is evacuated.
8:00
The enemy renewed his attack at both bridges. Despite heavy losses he achieved some success in the West. This was caused by heavy air bombardment on our position here. The attacks hit especially our 88 battery and destroyed 2 guns. Enemy infantry has reached the defending 11. Kompanie. One squad is encircled but holds its position. Another squad has to retreat. Both squads suffered heavy losses.
Because the AT defence of 11. Kompanie is seriously crippled and it is assumed that the enemy will achieve a breakthrough here in the next 15 minutes 3/StuGAbt 202 has been released. The tanks will be concentrated in the West to create a locally superior force and destroy the enemy armour here. The encircled platoon is covered with smoke to avoid long-range fire on it.
8:30
The counter attack in the West starts successfully. Some enemy tanks are destroyed. However, operating our tanks is dangerous because the enemy’s air superiority stops every movement in the open. The enemy concentrates his air attacks on our armour. 2 StuG are already destroyed. Every 88 gun is subject to air attacks after 4 shots. We were able to rescue the encircled squad which is down to 3 Jäger.
In the East, the enemy suffered further heavy losses. The position of the AT defence seems to be very favourable because every tank was knocked out with only minor losses for us yet. The resistance nest on the river banks repulsed several enemy attacks with infantry and tanks.
Both bridges are under permanent own artillery fires which stops especially enemy infantry.
9:00
Radio problems stopped our artillery fire in the East. This and heavy air bombardment on our PaK guns allowed enemy troops to cross the river and to further approach. In the West we lost further tanks to enemy air attacks. However, the battle group has the impression that the enemy is stopped here. Therefore, the remaining 4 StuGs are directed to the East.
10. Kompanie has been alarmed and is moved with its bulk to the east to strengthen our defence there. The enemy has infiltrated our frontline in the east. Olt. Koschnick. Leader of Fla Batterie 112 (88 guns) was killed in action. A part of the enemy force now tries to infiltrate La Douane from the Northeast. Strong infantry (at least 2 platoons) have crossed the Douve and moves in direction to Carentan.
9:30
Our counterattack in the East is stopped by fire from enemy tanks and air attacks. Olt. Franzius, leader of 11. Kompanie was killed in this attack in a fight with enemy engineers armed with flame throwers.
In the West, the enemy attack could be stopped with losses on both sides. Now, only two StuG remain operable. However, most crews survived. The resistance nest in the southeast still holds it position despite heavy losses. Here, Uffz. Rittenhaus who together with his MG squad has beaten off several attacks of a far superior enemy was finally killed in action.
11.00
The enemy retreats and evacuates the bridgeheads. The battle group has still to perform some mopping-up actions but it is clear that the enemy has lost the battle with heavy losses for him
Own losses are
Men 255
Artillery 5
Soft vehicle 2
APC 4
AFV 8
Enemy losses
Men 1,296
Artillery 1
Soft vehicle 4
APC 47
AFV 79
Dec. Victory
23,678 points to 3.816 points
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 12. Juni 1944
The enemy has crossed the Douve River in the East of Carentan. The defending battlegroup of 275. GrenDiv was pushed back. The enemy then altered the direction of his assault to the South. Therefore FJR 6 and Kampfgruppe Wolzow are threatened with encirclement. As a consquence, the commander of FJR 6, Frh. v. d. Heydte ordered to retreat and to evacuate Carentan. The battle-group has taken a new defensive position southeast of Carentan.
First elements of 17. SS PzGren Div "Götz von Berlichingen" including the divisional headquarter have reached the front . FJR 6 and the battle group have been subordinated to the "Götz von Berlichingen". The commander of the SS Div has accused v. d. Heydte for the retreat and announced to court-martial him. Hptm. Wolzow and Major v. d. Heydte both argued that the thread in the East flank of the force made the retreat mandatory. After intervention of General Meindl, commander of II. Fallschirmkorps the decision of v. d. Heydte was accepted.
However, Brigadeführer Ostendorff, commander of "GvB" ordered an immediate counterattack to retake Carentan. The task was given to the battlegroup. Our plead for armoured reinforcment for this task was neglected. Only two engineer platoons of the SS Div will reinforce the attack and even no artillery support will be available.
The enemy has crossed the Douve River in the East of Carentan. The defending battlegroup of 275. GrenDiv was pushed back. The enemy then altered the direction of his assault to the South. Therefore FJR 6 and Kampfgruppe Wolzow are threatened with encirclement. As a consquence, the commander of FJR 6, Frh. v. d. Heydte ordered to retreat and to evacuate Carentan. The battle-group has taken a new defensive position southeast of Carentan.
First elements of 17. SS PzGren Div "Götz von Berlichingen" including the divisional headquarter have reached the front . FJR 6 and the battle group have been subordinated to the "Götz von Berlichingen". The commander of the SS Div has accused v. d. Heydte for the retreat and announced to court-martial him. Hptm. Wolzow and Major v. d. Heydte both argued that the thread in the East flank of the force made the retreat mandatory. After intervention of General Meindl, commander of II. Fallschirmkorps the decision of v. d. Heydte was accepted.
However, Brigadeführer Ostendorff, commander of "GvB" ordered an immediate counterattack to retake Carentan. The task was given to the battlegroup. Our plead for armoured reinforcment for this task was neglected. Only two engineer platoons of the SS Div will reinforce the attack and even no artillery support will be available.
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 13. Juni 1944
0.30
The battle group commander called in all officers and ncos to inform them about the ordered counterattack and to give orders for the attack. The morale of the leaders dropped when they were informed that despite two engineer platoons the "Götz von Berlichingen" will not support the attack. Some ncos made comments that the SS wants to fight to the last paratrooper.
Hptm. Wolzow wiped all criticsm away and stated that this order had to be followed. Since the battle-group can not rely on fire-power maximum surprise would be essential. Therefore, the attack will commence without any artillery preparation and the tanks of the StuG battery will be concentrated in the sector of one company. The plan is to penetrate the emey front line punctually and to circumvene resistance nests which should be mopped up later by the "Götz von Berlichingen" when its lead elements will reach the front. The battle group will try to penetrate in depth firstly to reach the bridges at Carentan and secondly to irritate the enemy who will hopefully assumes that a major attack occurs and retreats.
The main burden should be carried by the 9. Kompanie as it is the most experienced company.9. Kompanie will be supported by the StuG battery and an engineer platoon on the south side of the front. 11. Kompanie will attack on the north side, try also to penetrate deeply and to take the small town in the northwest corner of the operational area. 10. Kompanie will be postiioned in the centre and try to take the major crossroads there.
12. Kompanie and the AA battery are kept in reserve and will provide AT defense and defensive power at key points.
Major Wolzow warned that the sky will be clear tomorrow and that , therefore, heavy enemy air activity must be taken into account. He ended his description of the attack plan with the hind that the main task of all leaders should be today to preserve their men and their units as a cohesive fighting instruments. Local territorial gains should be not so important if purchased by irrevisible losses. He wished luck to all and "Gott mit uns"
5:30
All elements of the battle group have reached the starting positions for the counter attack. The attack will begin at 7:00
0.30
The battle group commander called in all officers and ncos to inform them about the ordered counterattack and to give orders for the attack. The morale of the leaders dropped when they were informed that despite two engineer platoons the "Götz von Berlichingen" will not support the attack. Some ncos made comments that the SS wants to fight to the last paratrooper.
Hptm. Wolzow wiped all criticsm away and stated that this order had to be followed. Since the battle-group can not rely on fire-power maximum surprise would be essential. Therefore, the attack will commence without any artillery preparation and the tanks of the StuG battery will be concentrated in the sector of one company. The plan is to penetrate the emey front line punctually and to circumvene resistance nests which should be mopped up later by the "Götz von Berlichingen" when its lead elements will reach the front. The battle group will try to penetrate in depth firstly to reach the bridges at Carentan and secondly to irritate the enemy who will hopefully assumes that a major attack occurs and retreats.
The main burden should be carried by the 9. Kompanie as it is the most experienced company.9. Kompanie will be supported by the StuG battery and an engineer platoon on the south side of the front. 11. Kompanie will attack on the north side, try also to penetrate deeply and to take the small town in the northwest corner of the operational area. 10. Kompanie will be postiioned in the centre and try to take the major crossroads there.
12. Kompanie and the AA battery are kept in reserve and will provide AT defense and defensive power at key points.
Major Wolzow warned that the sky will be clear tomorrow and that , therefore, heavy enemy air activity must be taken into account. He ended his description of the attack plan with the hind that the main task of all leaders should be today to preserve their men and their units as a cohesive fighting instruments. Local territorial gains should be not so important if purchased by irrevisible losses. He wished luck to all and "Gott mit uns"
5:30
All elements of the battle group have reached the starting positions for the counter attack. The attack will begin at 7:00
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
Out of curiousity, is this a campaign or series of scenarios you've designed, or a long campaign with a historical force? This is very interesting to read, and wrote well enough that I can get a picture of the field. If your building these scenarios yourself, then may I suggest posting them at the Depot.
"Wait... Holden was a cat. Suddenly it makes sense."
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
H azraleck,
I started it as a regular campaign and bought my core force as usual. however, I laid emphasis on having a historcal correct force and did not try to get the "best out of my points". The battles have been modified to fit in the historical conduct, i. e I changed the maps and took some delivered with the game showing some bocage country (for the period where I am at the moment). Further more I changed the enemy force so that it makes also more sense from a historical perspective (i. e. less tanks and the beginning for the US, paras for the US , many aircrafts and naval artillery).
Finally, for the reader, I wrote something like a story around it so that the whole campaign is not an addition of not connected scenarios but the envolvement of my (fictious) battle group and it makes more fun to read for you. Please note that some of the incidents I mentioned in the "pre-battle reports" are not fictious, e. g. the problems between SS and the paras (i. e. v. d. Heydtes 6. FJR).
I do not think that the single battles are well outbalanced at the moment. So, I think I would blame me a bit if I post them at the game depot (*s*). However, if somebody is interested, I have the single scenarios saved so you can have a look on them.
I started it as a regular campaign and bought my core force as usual. however, I laid emphasis on having a historcal correct force and did not try to get the "best out of my points". The battles have been modified to fit in the historical conduct, i. e I changed the maps and took some delivered with the game showing some bocage country (for the period where I am at the moment). Further more I changed the enemy force so that it makes also more sense from a historical perspective (i. e. less tanks and the beginning for the US, paras for the US , many aircrafts and naval artillery).
Finally, for the reader, I wrote something like a story around it so that the whole campaign is not an addition of not connected scenarios but the envolvement of my (fictious) battle group and it makes more fun to read for you. Please note that some of the incidents I mentioned in the "pre-battle reports" are not fictious, e. g. the problems between SS and the paras (i. e. v. d. Heydtes 6. FJR).
I do not think that the single battles are well outbalanced at the moment. So, I think I would blame me a bit if I post them at the game depot (*s*). However, if somebody is interested, I have the single scenarios saved so you can have a look on them.
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 13.Juni 1944
During the march to the starting position for the attack, the battle group was subjcet to some confusion in the night. 9. and 11. Kompanie struggled and did not reach the correct positions. Therefore, 11. Kompanie will attack in the south and 9. Kompanie in the north.
7.00
The attack started. more or less immediately after the attack enemy forces were detected in the centre consisting of armoured infantry and armoured cars at an important crossroad.
10. Kompanie made contact with the enemy. After a short firefight the emey infantry retreated. I/10. Kompanie was able to knockout some APCs. MG fire of a MG of 12. Kompanie took a heavy toll from the enemy.
8.00
Contact with the enemy was made in th north and the south. However the crossroad in the north was not defended. In the far north I/9. Kompanie marched forward without meeting any resistance.
In the centre the firefight continued. Several APCs of the enemy were destroyed. One Stug was lost to an ambush by enemy infantry.
8:15
10 Kompanie met heavy resistance in the centre. The enemy had started a counter attack with armoured infantry and harrassed 10. Kompanie with heavy artillery fire. The impression is at the moment that the enemy concentrated his froces in the centre. At his flanks, his resistance is only light until no. This is exactly what was planned with our attack.
9:00
The enemy has supported his counterattacks in the centre with one or two tank companies. 10. Kompanies has been overrun. The enemy then turned to the south. 11. and 10. Kompanie as well as our StuG battery are in danger of encirclement. 10. Kompanie had to defend at close range against an overwhelming number of enemy tanks. Losses of the company are high. The AA battery was released to increase firepower of 10. Kompanie but it is clear that the 88s are not very effecitve in this kind of battle on close range.
9:15
11. Kompanie in th south was subject to extreme heavy artillery fire. Several artilley batteries and mortars targetd the Kompanie. Furthermore, several Jabos attacked the Kompanie and destroyed 2 StuGs.Lossews were severe.
Furthermore, enemy tanks were also detected in the North. Our position there was bolstered with an 88 gun. The whole battle group with the exception of I/9. Kompanie has to defend against a numerical superior enemy who has also much more firepower. The crossroads with the exception of a road in the south were lost to the enemy
During the march to the starting position for the attack, the battle group was subjcet to some confusion in the night. 9. and 11. Kompanie struggled and did not reach the correct positions. Therefore, 11. Kompanie will attack in the south and 9. Kompanie in the north.
7.00
The attack started. more or less immediately after the attack enemy forces were detected in the centre consisting of armoured infantry and armoured cars at an important crossroad.
10. Kompanie made contact with the enemy. After a short firefight the emey infantry retreated. I/10. Kompanie was able to knockout some APCs. MG fire of a MG of 12. Kompanie took a heavy toll from the enemy.
8.00
Contact with the enemy was made in th north and the south. However the crossroad in the north was not defended. In the far north I/9. Kompanie marched forward without meeting any resistance.
In the centre the firefight continued. Several APCs of the enemy were destroyed. One Stug was lost to an ambush by enemy infantry.
8:15
10 Kompanie met heavy resistance in the centre. The enemy had started a counter attack with armoured infantry and harrassed 10. Kompanie with heavy artillery fire. The impression is at the moment that the enemy concentrated his froces in the centre. At his flanks, his resistance is only light until no. This is exactly what was planned with our attack.
9:00
The enemy has supported his counterattacks in the centre with one or two tank companies. 10. Kompanies has been overrun. The enemy then turned to the south. 11. and 10. Kompanie as well as our StuG battery are in danger of encirclement. 10. Kompanie had to defend at close range against an overwhelming number of enemy tanks. Losses of the company are high. The AA battery was released to increase firepower of 10. Kompanie but it is clear that the 88s are not very effecitve in this kind of battle on close range.
9:15
11. Kompanie in th south was subject to extreme heavy artillery fire. Several artilley batteries and mortars targetd the Kompanie. Furthermore, several Jabos attacked the Kompanie and destroyed 2 StuGs.Lossews were severe.
Furthermore, enemy tanks were also detected in the North. Our position there was bolstered with an 88 gun. The whole battle group with the exception of I/9. Kompanie has to defend against a numerical superior enemy who has also much more firepower. The crossroads with the exception of a road in the south were lost to the enemy
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 13. Juni 1944
9:45
The enemy has started a counterattack in the soutern area from two sides, i. e. from the west and the north. The StuG battery has suffered heavy losses and figths outnumbered at close range against US. tanks. It is unable to support the Jäger and fights for its survival. 11. Kompanie will give up its gains and retreat to the east. One platoon was more or less annhiliated, another platoon suffered severe losses. 10. Kompanie in the centre retreats already.
Reserves have been released. A MG platoon of 12. Kompanie together with an 88 gun will cover 11. Kompanie in the south. Other reserves will bolster 10. Kompanie.
I/9. Kompanie attacks an enemey AT position in the town in the northwest. This hopefully will drag some enemy troops from the other frontline. I./9. Kompanie attacked another defensive position of the enemy and destroyed 2 tanks.
10.00
Enemy air attacks knocked out an additional StuG and an 88. The 88 are easily identified after firing and are not very useful in this terrain. Another 88 and a LG were knocked out by enemy fire.
All reserves habe been released. Enemy prssure in the centre and the south is not decreased.Only 2 StuGs remain operable
Hptm. Wolzow decided to break-off the attack. All companies got the order to retreat to their starting psotion and to break contact with the enemy.
Result:
Losses
Own
men 373
artillery 4
soft vehicle 4
APC 0
AFV 8
US (AI)
men 690
artillery 3
soft vehicle 2
APC 22
AFV 18
Point
OWN 11,560
US 5,835
all VP hexes controlled by the AI at the end.
result was a DRAW
9:45
The enemy has started a counterattack in the soutern area from two sides, i. e. from the west and the north. The StuG battery has suffered heavy losses and figths outnumbered at close range against US. tanks. It is unable to support the Jäger and fights for its survival. 11. Kompanie will give up its gains and retreat to the east. One platoon was more or less annhiliated, another platoon suffered severe losses. 10. Kompanie in the centre retreats already.
Reserves have been released. A MG platoon of 12. Kompanie together with an 88 gun will cover 11. Kompanie in the south. Other reserves will bolster 10. Kompanie.
I/9. Kompanie attacks an enemey AT position in the town in the northwest. This hopefully will drag some enemy troops from the other frontline. I./9. Kompanie attacked another defensive position of the enemy and destroyed 2 tanks.
10.00
Enemy air attacks knocked out an additional StuG and an 88. The 88 are easily identified after firing and are not very useful in this terrain. Another 88 and a LG were knocked out by enemy fire.
All reserves habe been released. Enemy prssure in the centre and the south is not decreased.Only 2 StuGs remain operable
Hptm. Wolzow decided to break-off the attack. All companies got the order to retreat to their starting psotion and to break contact with the enemy.
Result:
Losses
Own
men 373
artillery 4
soft vehicle 4
APC 0
AFV 8
US (AI)
men 690
artillery 3
soft vehicle 2
APC 22
AFV 18
Point
OWN 11,560
US 5,835
all VP hexes controlled by the AI at the end.
result was a DRAW
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion
War Diar Kampfgruppe Wolzoz 15. Juni 1944
The battle group was taken out the frontline. It has suffered heavy losses and needs a rest to be refreshed and rearmed.
9. Kompanie has about 80 % of its scheduled strength, 10. Kompanie about 75 %. 11. Kompanie is down to about 35 %. The 12. Kompanie has about 50 %.
The attached battery of StuG Btl. 202 was destroyed and is replaced by 3.Batterie of Fallschirmsturmgeschützbrigade 2. The AA battery has lost about 50 % of it tubes.Only 6./ArtRgt 191 is at full strength.
Motorization dropped to a critical level.
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 18. Juni 1944
New orders reached the battle group. It will be attached to Panzerlehrdivision in the more North-Eastern combat area. The battle group was ordered to launch an armed reckon task with support of reckon elements (infantry) of PzLehrDiv and 6./PzRgt 130 (8 PzKpfw IV H). If things go well, the battle group should drive the front perimeter further to the North to avoid a connection between the two US beachheads.
The elements of the battle group marched to their new positions in the East in night moves to avoid air raids and made already contact with PzLehrDiv. General Bayerlein was pleased to get this reinforcements. Atmosphere is good as the staff of PzLehrDiv seems to be very professional.
The battle group was taken out the frontline. It has suffered heavy losses and needs a rest to be refreshed and rearmed.
9. Kompanie has about 80 % of its scheduled strength, 10. Kompanie about 75 %. 11. Kompanie is down to about 35 %. The 12. Kompanie has about 50 %.
The attached battery of StuG Btl. 202 was destroyed and is replaced by 3.Batterie of Fallschirmsturmgeschützbrigade 2. The AA battery has lost about 50 % of it tubes.Only 6./ArtRgt 191 is at full strength.
Motorization dropped to a critical level.
War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 18. Juni 1944
New orders reached the battle group. It will be attached to Panzerlehrdivision in the more North-Eastern combat area. The battle group was ordered to launch an armed reckon task with support of reckon elements (infantry) of PzLehrDiv and 6./PzRgt 130 (8 PzKpfw IV H). If things go well, the battle group should drive the front perimeter further to the North to avoid a connection between the two US beachheads.
The elements of the battle group marched to their new positions in the East in night moves to avoid air raids and made already contact with PzLehrDiv. General Bayerlein was pleased to get this reinforcements. Atmosphere is good as the staff of PzLehrDiv seems to be very professional.
"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.