Several divisions north of Moscow appeared trapped when the soviets
began their [Moscow] counter-offensive in December. Retreat was the
only option.
The situation is well illustrated by the Order issued by 78th Division
to its regiments for the withdrawal:
"The main thing is to break through the enemy's barrier behind our
front line. If necessary, vehicles are to be left behind and only the
troops saved."
In this manner they fought their way back: the Swabians of 78th
Infantry Division, whose tactical sign was Ulm Cathedral and the iron
Silesians of 252nd Division, the men from Rhineland and Hesse of 197th
Infantry Division, and the battalions of 255th Infantry Division. The
French legionaries trudged along next to the Bavarians of 7th Infantry
Division, and their words of command in the language of Napoleon
129 years before.
......Hitler Moves East by Paul Carell
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