Intro to bunkers.

Norway and Iceland were wonderful, but now I am back in the United States.  I have some good pictures of Fjell Fortress in Bergen, Norway.  I will use many of these in an ongoing series of posts about Axis bunkers, and in detail pertaining to Fjell Fortress.  Until then,  here are just a few key points about some of the basics of German bunker design and relevant terminology.  They will probably come up again often in later posts.

 Above:  The firing position in a "Tobruk".

Ringstand:  Also known to the Allies as "Tobruks", in reference to very similar Italian positions encountered outside of Tobruk, Libya.  Ringstand are holes in the ground, generally made of concrete.  There is room for one man in this hole to operate a heavy weapon, such as a machine gun or shoulder launched anti-tank weapon.  A Ringstand protected all but the top of a mans shoulders and his head.  Many of these positions had an armored shield that could mount a machine gun, and rotate with the soldier 360 degrees.  Connecting to the hole was a waiting room with a bench, which then connected to a small entry chamber and exit.  Frequently Ringstand were also installed on the roofs of larger bunkers.  In those cases the Ringstand did not connect to the rest of the bunker proper.  These positions were popular because they were cheap and easy to produce (as far as bunkers go), and proved to be very effective for their intended role.  

Above:  The layout for a Regelbau type bunker. 

Regelbau:  When reading or hearing about German bunkers built through the 30s and 40s, you will hear this term a lot.  Regelbau was a term given to a highly successful series of bunker designs that could be standardized in development and construction, and sometimes even be prefabricated.  An advantage of this kind of planning was that many of these bunkers were well rounded in their role for defense, since they all had to be standardized to a set of principals.  Think of Regelbau bunkers as "regulation bunkers".

Above:  In the steep, narrow walls of a communications trench.

Communications Trench:  It is relevant to note that this does not refer exclusively to the act of passing one message to another.  Communications refers to the ability to move not only information, but of material, men and equipment.  Thus a road which your supply columns use will also be referred to as a communications network.  A communications trench then for example, is not necessarily designed to fight from, but instead to move in. Although in some cases it could be a part of a fighting position.  More than likely the trench walls will be too high, or without enough places to step up high and fight.  The walls are very narrow and steep, in order to better protect occupants from explosive or shrapnel effects.  This also tends to make it harder to see.  Communications trenches are vital for static defense, and positional warfare.

Above:  Flak 38, 4 x 20 mm guns.

Flak:  This is a reference to German anti-aircraft weapons systems.  The term covers a wide swath of machines.  The most common German systems of the second world war used combinations of 20 mm auto cannons in single, double, triple and quadruple mounts.  Single or double mounts for heavier 37 mm auto cannons, and of course the famous 88 mm Flak 36 all purpose gun.  Other weapon systems included the deadly 128 mm Flak 40.

Just for fun, and a taste of things to come.

Fjell Fortress is amazing, and I look forward to sharing more about it.  I am still out of country for the moment; however, here are a few photos for fun, and for a taste of future blogs to come.

Above:  A smaller Regelbau bunker for perimeter defense with connecting communications trench.  While just out of sight in the camera shot, a Ringstande lies on top of this bunker.  This is basically a neck-high hole in the bunker roof, specially designed to allow a man with a machine gun to cover the position.  One can turn and fire a full 360 degrees in such a hole.

Above:  A variety of rocket projectiles.  To the far right are two more modern "Cold War" era American designed L.A.W. launchers.  The two longer devices in the middle and far left are German Panzerfaust (tank fist) rocket propelled grenades.  These were disposable, one time use weapons.  They used a shaped charge capable of defeating the armor of any Allied or Comintern vehicle of the time.

Above:  For many, this machine needs no introduction.  Maschinengewehr model 1942.  Or more colloquially MG-42.  Also known as the "Circle Saw", "Buzz Saw", or "Hitler Saw".  With an average rate of fire at 1200 rounds per minute, it could very literally cut a man in two.  This one is attached to a heavy mount for the sustained fire role.

Above:  Just one of many tunnels under the mountain at Fortress Fjell. 

Norway!

On April 8th of 1940, in an attempt to stop shipments of iron ore to Germany through Norway.  The British and French began operation "Wilfred", which involved mining Norwegian waters.  It was expected that the Germans would react to this, which would give the British and French a pretext to launch operation "Plan R4", the invasion of Norway.  They would then occupy the country as part of an economic barricade around the Reich.  The Germans, already aware of British plans to mine, and then invade Norway, stepped up work on an existing plan "Weserubung".  This too was an invasion of Norway, but with the intention of keeping trade, and specifically iron ore flowing into the Reich.

The Two sides clashed almost simultaneously, and the Norwegians found themselves being invaded from two different directions by two powerful modern military machines.  Each attacking under the ironic explanation that they were only trying to help the Norwegians from being occupied by the enemy.  Ultimately the Germans won a resounding victory, albeit at a high cost to the Kriegsmarine, losing 1 heavy cruiser, 2 light cruisers, 6 U-boats, and half of its 20 destroyers with several other ships taking significant damage ("The campaign in Norway", T.K. Derry) .  This short campaign officially ended on June 10th 1940, with the Norwegian surrender to Germany.  For the duration of the war, the Germans would transform Norway into a fortress, featuring some of the most impressive defensive positions along the entire Atlantic wall.

Tonight, I leave for Iceland and Norway with my significant other Pink.  Among other activities we will be visiting the super heavy naval battery "Fjell" near Bergen in Norway.  This massive complex of bunkers, casemates, gun positions, and tunnels was built by the Germans during the occupation.  The centerpiece of this complex was the turret "Felix", removed from the battle cruiser "Gneisenau", featuring three 280-mm guns!  The turret no longer remains, but the rest of the site is in good condition.  Southeast of Bergen I am going to try to get over to battery "Lista" near the town of Farsund as well.  There are quite a few bunkers here, including many tank turrets set into concrete foundations. 

When I return I will compile a series of posts discussing the different bunkers and various positions in these areas.  These will feature up to date color photos!  There will likely be a dearth of posts while I am away, but I may display some pictures if I have a chance.

Wish me luck!

Media clip #1 "Bonzai Hitlerjugend"

 

With the formalization of the Anti-Comintern pact on November 25th 1936, which united a number of nations against Communism (particularly against Soviet Russia), Japanese and German relations became much more intimate and active.  This resulted in much cultural exchange, including private and government sponsored educational trips by students of both nations.  The Hitlerjugend (Hitler Youth) send many young Germans to Japan to learn about Japanese culture, and to continue fostering positive relations among the two peoples.

I have uploaded an eclectic piece titled "Bonzai Hitlerjugend".  The song was composed by Tkakai Tetsuo.  The lyrics were written by one of the most celebrated, popular, and important figures in modern Japanese literature, Kitahara Ryukichi (who famously went by the pen name Hakushu Kitaraha).  "Bonzai Hitlerjugend" was performed for the reception of a large Hitlerjugend visit to Japan in 1938. 

Enjoy!

Anti-tank Dogs

Above: An armored command car drives past a liberated Russian anti-tank dog.

Recently I had someone ask me about Russian Anti-tank dogs.  They were indeed real.  Here is a little information about  the subject.

Anti-tank dogs have been used by a number of nations and groups throughout the world.  A recent example taking place in Iraq 2005.  The Russian use of the animals between 1940 and 1945 has probably received most attention, although they have been in use by the Russian military as late as the mid 90s .  These dogs were regularly starved, and then trained to look for food underneath tanks.  The idea being that the contact detonator sticking out of the dogs back, would strike the bottom of the tank blowing up both the machine and animal.

When training took place, the Russians used their own tanks.  These tanks used diesel fuel unlike their German counterparts.  Furthermore there were little or no live firing exercises with the dogs during this training.  When the time came to put the animals to use, they often returned to the handlers, frightened from the noise of the battlefield and tank fire.  This resulted in many dead Russians from friendly anti-tank charges going off in their own trench, and of course many dead dogs.  When released into the German lines during "quiet" moments of the front.  It was found that these dogs usually sought out the familiar smell of diesel, and destroyed Russian tanks behind their own lines instead while searching for something to eat.

German units operating in areas where anti-tank dogs had been discovered were warned about this threat, and the order was given to shoot unknown dogs in no mans land, and to beware of animals that did not obviously belong to a German unit.  If possible, German soldiers often tried to coax the animal with food before disabling the explosive device, and then releasing the animal.  Other times, in accordance with their orders the poor animals simply had to be shot.

The overall effectiveness of these anti-tank dogs is uncertain at best.  Losses recorded by the Germans to these animals show very small numbers, while official Soviet history claims some 300 German tanks destroyed.  Gottlob Biddermann's  personal account "In Deadly Combat", makes mention of these anti-tank dogs being used by Russian troops not very far from Leningrad.  Recollections and statements made by German soldiers active in those areas of the front, indicate that the dogs made for quite a commotion among the troops, but had very little impact on their ability to fight or survive.  Biddermann's account confirms this as well.  Additionally the official Soviet claim of 300 has been since seriously questioned by Russian historians, who view such a claim as propaganda.  Much training went into these faithful canines, but for a role meant to consume the very life of the animal itself.  This arguably nulls the value of the time and resources spent in the animals education.  It also makes it quite easy for others to slander a nation that uses such tactics.

Russian anti-tank dogs were not fiction, but a product of desperation.  They make for a very imaginative way of waging war, but cost those who use them for such ends, the very trust and life of "mans best friend". 

Crossing A Defended Bridge

*This is a paper I wrote a while back for a journalism class.  Because of the subject matter, I felt this may be interesting to others.  While certainly not all inclusive, this article should give a reader some idea of how one might cross a bridge in wartime using equipment and tactics from the mid to late 1940s.

 

            I have spent years studying various military tactics and procedures, and one of the more interesting of these for me, is the crossing of a defended bridge.  It requires a high degree of precision from all parties involved, and must be done frequently under most terrain conditions when on the attack.  While a set of "text book" instructions rarely hold up under combat conditions, these should nevertheless provide a pretty accurate description of how such things are done.  We will then build our scenario as follows.

            Let us assume we are the commander of an armored task force, spearheading the main assault of one or more regiments or even divisions.  For flavor, let us assume we are commanding a German unit of said description.  That makes our task force (Kampfgruppe) a mobile one, composed of a few tanks (Panzers, probably Mark 4), some armored personnel carriers (SPW, Sd.Kfz 251 and associated variants).  Also accompanying our Kampfgruppe will be the usual combat engineers (Pioneers), mechanized infantry (Panzer Grenadier) platoon or battalion, and support vehicles such an anti-aircraft (Flak), or signals vehicles.  It would be prudent to assume we may have a heavy armored car or two as well (Puma).

            After a long advance across an endless Russian countryside of fields, dust, and open sky.  The leading elements of the advance guard, report back to the Kampfgruppe that a river has been sighted ahead.  What now?  The main body of the task force will be held back, and another small party of men, in armored vehicles of some sort preferably, will advance to the riverbank slowly.  Taking precautions not to engage in a firefight with any enemy present.  The river must be examined to determine the depth and width.  That will indicate whether a bridge is necessary for the crossing. 

            Let us say that the men report back, and that the water is too deep for a crossing.  If said scouts have not already, have them reconnoiter and search for a crossing point up and down the river.  Lets say, that they have done this, and that a small bridge is to be found off a side road through some trees.  Let us also say, that the enemy has defended this bridge with troops (perhaps a Rifle Battalion), who are equipped with heavy weapons, dug in, and have a commanding field of view from the opposite bank.

            First things first.  Upon the return of your scouts, have more men search up and down river even further.  If another point exists that can be crossed without a bridge, but farther away, it would still be the preferable point to cross.  We will handle the situation in two different ways and both will be illustrated here.  Let us assume for now that the scouts did find a place well enough suited for tracked vehicles to cross.  

            Divide your men and machines into two groups.  Group A should consist of the majority of your infantry, and at least half of your tanks.  Group B should be organized around the majority of your heavy weapons (especially mortars if available), any Flak (to be used in a ground fire role), and a number of your tanks.  Group A will drive off in the direction of the shallow crossing, quietly and under cover, while group B drives toward the main bridge, making much noise and commotion.

            Precise orders must be given.  Either through wireless radio broadcast, or through a designated signal, it must be clear that group A does not attempt to cross until group B has started its mission.  Thus, have group B drive right up to the outer limits of the enemy bridgehead, and begin to immediately open fire.  This must be done carefully, and with much scrutinizing of the enemy positions.  The last thing you want is for the accompanying tanks to be taken under fire by anti-tank batteries, or for the accompanying troops to be taken under an artillery barrage. 

           

            Have the heavy weapons of group B open fire on the enemy on the opposite bank.  If clear of anti-tank guns, the Panzers should join in the shooting.  As high a rate of fire as possible, must be brought to bear on the enemy, so that they are pinned, and unable to notice or take action against the workings of group A.  Mortars will come in very handy here, as their ballistic arc of fire will negate many types of field works used by enemy troops, making their position very precarious.  The enemy should believe that you are now attempting a crossing at the bridge, especially with the withering fire brought to bear on him.  He may even call for reinforcements to his position.

            Now group A  makes the shallow crossing at maximum speed, avoiding confrontation with the enemy if possible.  Once they have gotten to the other side, they proceed to the site of the bridge, but from the enemy side of the bank!  Group A positions itself in the flank or rear of the enemy lines, and opens an attack, enveloping the Russian forces stationed there.  Under attack from 2 or more directions, and with Panzers and Grenadiers right on his doorstep, the enemy must be forced out of his positions or be annihilated.  Even if he had called up reinforcements, these will be taken under surprise attack by group A as well, and likely smashed by concentrated tank and small arms fire.  In fact, having those reinforcements brought up could be a huge boon for the Kampfgruppe, as they will no longer be in a position of their choosing to initiate a fight, but one of our choosing! 

            Essentially, this is a victory.  The enemy lines can now be rolled up from the enemy side of the river, and group B can now cross at their leisure.  Take care still, to inspect the bridge for demolitions or sabotage by Pioneers before sending anyone across, as sappers may have stayed behind for just such a purpose.  After "mop up" duties are complete, groups A and B rejoin, and our Kampfgruppe continues its advance.  Mission accomplished!  On the other hand, what if there was no alternate crossing?  How would one get across the defended bridge?  Lets travel back in time a little.

            Upon the return of your scouts, it is determined that the only crossing that can be made, is the enemy bridge.  Have all of the men dismount from their vehicles, and have them spread out into their respective combat formations (the work of the platoon leaders).  Deploy all available heavy weapons and Flak, under any cover available.  Split the tanks up into small groups, and have them wait behind cover, ready to drive to the river bank.  When ready, order all heavy weapons and Flak to open fire.  The concentration of fire on the enemy must be extremely thick, and should come as a total surprise.  It must be ruthless and shocking, so as to paralyze the enemy in his positions.

            At this moment, have Pioneers approach the bridge (no doubt under fire).  They must determine if the bridge is safe to cross, and remove any traps or charges that may have been set.  As they do this order the Grenadiers to move up, and open fire on the enemy as well, providing the maximum possible cover for the Pioneers and their work.  Once the bridge has been determined, or made clear for travel, it is time for the Panzers to go to work.

            Sending only one or two across at a time, but at the greatest possible speed, have some of your tanks get to the enemy side of the river.  Once the first tank has crossed, order the heavy weapons and Flak to adjust their targets slightly away, and to the side of the advancing Panzers.  Once the first one or two panzers is across, have the grenadiers begin to cross as well, as the tanks on the opposite side will need their assistance in clearing out the enemy from his holes and hides. 

            Once these units have made it across the enemy bridge, it is time to make an evaluation.  If enemy reinforcements are likely underway, you will need the majority of your troops on the other side of the bridge to fight them successfully.  If you cross with the rest of your men and machines, and the enemy fire has not subsided much, you are likely to lose the rest of your force on the very bridge you are trying to claim.  Therefore, if enemy fire has died down enough for you to feel comfortable sending the rest of the men across, then you must do it immediately before the situation changes.  If not, then more time must be taken for the men who have crossed, and the weapons providing cover on your side of the bank, to do their jobs of suppressing the enemy gunners.  This; however, is dangerous and risks you loosing the men who have made that first daring crossing.  You need to get as many men on the other bank as quickly as possible. 

            Assuming things went alright from here, mop up duty is performed on the enemy bank, and the groups rejoin to form our Kampfgruppe.  Which then proceeds on its way to greater glory.  Of course it is quite possible that you will need to secure the bridge and surrounding areas until your parent unit has arrived to take over.  The key here is speed.  The faster you pull off the above, the faster your men move, the faster they shoot at a surprised enemy.  The greater their odds of survival become, and the greater the chances of your mission succeeding as well.  A smaller group who possesses the initiative, and uses a speed and shock to achieve their goals, usually succeeds even over a larger sized, dug in foe.

            With both scenarios illustrated here, and especially the second one, one statement holds true.  If you were fast enough, and hitting hard enough, you probably succeeded.  This then, is a "truism" I would like to leave you with to mull over.  When attacking in general, energy and rapid action win the day.  Keeping the enemy off balance and uncertain as to your next move, will help you get through enemy villages, around dangerous roadblocks, over fortified hills, and across that intimidating bridge in front of your task force.  I hope you had some fun reading my little "how-to" piece, I hope you learned something new about a few 1940s era military tactics.