Panzer's Forward - The Matrix Games version of West Front

The German blitzkrieg attacks in May of 1940 had brought swift and stunning victories for the Germans. Everywhere the Allies were retreating in disarray. General Guderian said " Where the panzers lead, victory follows" and during the French campaign of 1940 this was especially true. On May 20th lead elements of the 10th Panzer Divison made contact with the French 9th Army along the banks of the Somme River. The town of Peronne had an important bridge over the river. The Germans needed this bridgehead for the future push southward to capture Paris and the rest of France. The French 9th Army had been preparing the area around Peronne since May 10th. Many defensive positions were in place and the troops were ready. With their backs against the river the French forces stood with grim determination. The 10th Panzer Division attacked immediately and they encountered fierce resistance from the French defenders. The panzers troops pushed ahead hoping to capture the town and the important bridge across the Somme.