0623_11: The South Pincer at Vitebsk - PzC 16 Minsk '44

South of Vitebsk, June 23rd 1944: The 3rd Byelorussian Front's general offensive was designated for the morning of June 23rd, however, a rather anxious recon in force, by the forward battalions of the 5th Army, had already penetrated the obstacle belt and were in contact with the German trench lines, in some cases occupying the first line of defenses. The plan called for the 39th Army, on the right flank, to force a crossing of the Luchesa River, then swing northwest to encircle the German LIII Army Korps, which was heavily entrenched in a salient around the Vitebsk Area. At the same time, 5th Army's goal was to breach the line, although they were further from the Luchesa, and head for Bogushevsk, then carry the general offensive to the west. [Size, medium]