Battle of Korsun-Cherkassy: The Encirclement and Breakout of Army Group South, 1944

On the Eastern Front in 1943, the tide began to turn against Germany. Their summer offensive, Operation Citadel, failed, and the Red Army seized the initiative. Waging a war of attrition, the Russians gradually pushed Germanys Army Group South back. By October 1943, the Russians had reached the Dnepr in Ukraine, Kiev was liberated, and the scene was set for the events described in this book, written by a high-ranking General Nikolaus von Vormann, who commanded XLVII. Panzerkorps. The battle of Cherkassy is also known as the Korsun Pocket, and it was a dramatic battle with each side attacking and defending. Strenuous efforts were made to avoid another Stalingrad, with the Germans led by Erich von Manstein attempting to break into the pocket. Despite the Germans' numerical advantage, 34% of the troops did not survive. Generalleutnant von Vormanns account is one of the few primary source materials that exists and is of significant historical interest.

Format: Hardback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2019
Publisher: Casemate Publishers

In 1943, the tides began to shift against Germany on the Eastern Front. Their ambitious summer offensive, Operation Citadel, proved to be a resounding failure, and the Red Army seized the initiative, despite incurring staggering losses. Waging a relentless war of attrition, the Russians gradually pushed Germanys Army Group South back. By October 1943, the Russians had reached the Dnepr River in Ukraine, liberating Kiev, and setting the stage for the events that unfolded in this captivating book, penned by the esteemed General Nikolaus von Vormann, who commanded the XLVII. Panzerkorps.

The Battle of Cherkassy, also known as the Korsun Pocket, holds a significant place in history. After a series of sudden attacks by the 1st and 2nd Ukrainian Fronts in January 1944, the Russians successfully encircled six German divisions, totaling 60,000 soldiers. Although the Red Army had the numerical advantage, two of the Panzer divisions were in excellent condition, resulting in a dramatic battle that saw both sides engaging in fierce attacks and robust defenses. Striving to prevent a repeat of Stalingrad, the Germans, under the command of Erich von Manstein, made valiant efforts to break into the pocket. However, atrocious weather and fierce resistance thwarted their attempts, and by mid-February, it became evident that breaking out of the pocket was the only viable option for the Germans. In a daring move, they abandoned a substantial amount of equipment and wounded soldiers, successfully rejoining the surrounding panzer divisions. While the Germans managed to avoid a catastrophic outcome, tragically, 34% of their troops did not survive.

Generalleutnant von Vormanns account, which commences with the retreat to the Dnepr in 1943, provides a detailed account of the subsequent events. It encompasses the Battle of Kirowograd, which took place from 5th to 17th January 1944, the encirclement, the valiant efforts to relieve the trapped troops, the grueling struggle endured by the troops within the pocket, and the ultimately successful breakout. Von Vormanns firsthand perspective offers a profound insight into the bravery and resilience of the soldiers who faced the daunting challenges of war.

This book is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human race and the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and democracy. It serves as a reminder of the immense cost of war and the importance of peace-building and reconciliation. As we reflect on the events of the past, let us strive for a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and cooperation, and where the lives and well-being of all individuals are valued and protected.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 159 x 234 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781612006031