09-11-2012, 11:34 AM
THE ROSLAVL GAP
Kazaki, Russia, Central Front
5 August 1941
The German encirclement at Roslavl (actually consisted of three pockets) was having great difficulties. The Soviet forces in the northern part of this trap, reacted by driving Northwest towards the Moscow Highway and the Desna River Crossing. Here at Kazaki, the retreating Soviet Army found the 292.Infantry Division and it's headquarters and overwhelmed them. The 292. was over extended and engaged in heavy defensive fighting to close the encirclement that they failed. The Soviets were pouring through this widening gap -- supplies, infantry, artillery. Guderian himself and personally ordered several units to form up into a battle group at Kazaki. A tank company, self propelled guns and artillery under General Martinek, artillery commander of 7 Corps were ordered to close this gap. But the weather has delayed their arrival.
Kazaki, Russia, Central Front
5 August 1941
The German encirclement at Roslavl (actually consisted of three pockets) was having great difficulties. The Soviet forces in the northern part of this trap, reacted by driving Northwest towards the Moscow Highway and the Desna River Crossing. Here at Kazaki, the retreating Soviet Army found the 292.Infantry Division and it's headquarters and overwhelmed them. The 292. was over extended and engaged in heavy defensive fighting to close the encirclement that they failed. The Soviets were pouring through this widening gap -- supplies, infantry, artillery. Guderian himself and personally ordered several units to form up into a battle group at Kazaki. A tank company, self propelled guns and artillery under General Martinek, artillery commander of 7 Corps were ordered to close this gap. But the weather has delayed their arrival.