Jump Into Hell: German Paratroopers in World War II by Kurowski Frank

Author:Kurowski, Frank
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781473815667
Publisher: Pen & Sword
Published: 2015-09-24T16:00:00+00:00

When Oberst Utz entered Chania around 1700 hours, the mayor of the city officially surrendered the city to him and requested that he spare the city’s citizens. Utz responded in his open and laconic fashion: “Although the German soldiers have entered Chania as victors, they have not entered as enemies. There will be no talk of plundering and retribution. Any soldier who plunders will be shot.”

By evening, the mountain troopers advancing towards Suda had reached the bay, where the enemy had set up for one final, stubborn defense. Since the Germans did not know what kind of forces they were dealing with, Generalmajor Ringel ordered Oberstleutnant Wittmann, the commander of the divisional artillery, to form a battle group with forces he was given and clear Suda Bay. The intent was to remain on the heels of the enemy, advance along the main road to Rethymnon and relieve the encircled paratroopers of Kampfgruppe Kroh and Kampfgruppe Wiedemann there.

In addition, Wittmann was to establish contact with the forces of Oberst Krakau, which were attempting to bypass the enemy and advance on Stylos. Those orders and directives initiated the movements and operations that would bring the fighting on Crete to a close four days later.

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