1201_08: Ahead, And Cut That Road - PzC 09 Rzhev '42

Luchesa River Valley, December 1st 1942: With the failure of 20th Army to make any gains in the Sychevka sector, Zhukov impressed upon General Iushkevich that the success of Operation Mars depended on his 22nd Army's performance. Despite the heavy casualties suffered the previous days, he ordered his entire Army to advance on the morning of December 1st. The 1st Guards Tank Brigade was to spearhead the attack across the Luchesa, toward the village of Vas'kovo, with battalions from the 1st and 3rd Mech Brigades in support. The 1319th Rifle Regiment, of the 185th Rifle Division, was to attack and capture the village of Grivo, and then advance to protect the left flank of the Army. On the right flank, two rifle regiments of the 238th Rifle Division, along with the 49th Tank Brigade and 10th Mech Brigade, were to clear German forces from south of the Luchesa and reach the Olenino-Belyi road. In reserve, and moving toward the front, were the 114th Rifle Brigade and the 39th Separate Tank Regiment, which were to help exploit any successful penetration. After a heavy artillery preparation, and in yet another heavy snowstorm, the infantry prepared to advance. [Size, small]