Elements of Auklärungs Abteilung arrived in the early morning hours Friday to scout out and secure a suitable position for forward command.  Once the area was the area was determined to be secure, the remainder of the Abteilung moved into position to set up camp and communications.  Shortly thereafter, Aufklärungs Abteilung’s position was reinforced by elements of the 11th SS Nordland, 9th SS Hohenstaufen, 5th Gerbigsjager (Heer), and a small complement of our Italian allies.  Upon completion of camp setup and security perimeter establishment, rations and ammunition for the ensuing battle were procured and distributed.

During this deployment, Aufklärungs Abteilung was fortunate to receive welcome additions to its ranks.  The new recruits were quickly assimilated into existing ranks due to the instruction of Sturmmann Vendlin Baumann and his implementation of a new and stringent training routine.  Physical conditioning and instruction began early at 0600, and saw the men primed for combat at the peak of dawn.  Providing excellent support for the new regimen, Waffen Meister Hauptscharführer Ernst Klopfer supplied an impressive and thorough munitions complement ensuring the safety of both camp and troops.

At approximately 1400 hours on Saturday, the Allied force we had been expecting spearheaded by the 83rd U.S. Infantry and I & R materialized in an attack on our 11th SS kameraden.  In an unusual role, the Aufklärungs Abteilung was called in to support the troops already engaged in battle.  Being outnumbered in both men and materials, the German/Italian forces were forced to make a tactical retreat.  No serious casualties to our unit were sustained thanks in part to our new Sanitat Sturmmann Hans Dierdöff.  Men receiving minor injuries were also treated back at camp by our DRK Nurse.  Outstretching their supply lines, the Allies were forced to halt their advance, giving us a much needed rest and refit.

Taking advantage of the lull in battle, Aufklärungs Abteilung was honored to take part in the wedding of our two medical personnel, Hans and Maxine.  Hauptsturmführer Koenig officiated the ceremony in true SS fashion.  It was a beautiful ceremony, with Maxine’s parents in attendance, brought to the front by a security detail of the Abteilung.  This provided a much needed moment of happiness amongst the carnage, and a great boost in morale for the entire unit, who wish Hans and Maxine all the best.  Rations of beer personally provided by the wedding party and fine schnapps provided from Hauptsturmführer Koenig’s private stock were freely enjoyed that evening by the troops.

Sunday morning found Aufklärungs Abteilung regrouping following the previous day’s battle.  In a surprise attack, the unit was able to completely outflank the Allied forces who had the remainder of the German forces pinned down.  This resulted in the capture of numerous key prisoners, including officers, and also the retaking of ground lost the previous day, including the area’s only bridge.  Once more, Aufklärungs Abteilung’s superior training and skill proved invaluable to yet another victory for the Fatherland; the spirit and efforts of our men especially were key to the mission’s success.

- Hauptsturmfuhrer Frederik Fonger