Operation Nordwind

Operation Nordwind was the last major German offensive on the Western Front during World War II, launched in December 1944 and ending in January 1945. It aimed to break through the U.S. and French lines and seize Strasbourg. The campaign showcased the difficulties of inter-Allied cooperation and resulted in fierce battles, including the loss of almost an entire tank battalion by the American 12th Armored Division.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Operation Nordwind, the final significant German offensive on the Western Front during World War II, commenced on December 31, 1944, in Rhineland-Palatinate, Alsace, and Lorraine, spanning southwestern Germany and northeastern France. This operation, often overshadowed by the Battle of the Bulge, was equally intense, with the troops involved enduring harsh weather conditions and challenging battle conditions similar to their counterparts in the northern region. The primary objective of Operation Nordwind was to breach the defenses of the U.S. Seventh Army and French 1st Army in the Upper Vosges mountains and the Alsatian Plain. Furthermore, the offensive aimed to destroy these forces and capture Strasbourg, a promise made by ******'s deputy, Heinrich Himmler, who assumed command of the operation. The campaign also highlighted the complexities of inter-Allied cooperation between the Americans and the French. By January 15, the U.S. VI Corps, which bore the brunt of the German attacks, was engaged on three fronts. At least 17 German divisions, including units from Army Group G and Army Group Oberrhein, were involved in the fighting, including the renowned 6th SS Mountain, 17th SS Panzergrenadier, 21st Panzer, and 25th Panzergrenadier Divisions. Another smaller attack against French positions south of Strasbourg was thwarted. Vicious battles unfolded at Hatten, Rittershoffen, Gambsheim, and Herrlisheim, despite the Germans' limited use of armor compared to the Ardennes. The American 12th Armored Division suffered significant losses, losing nearly an entire tank battalion in the battles around Herrlisheim. The action expanded to encompass the entire front, including key areas such as Strasbourg, Wingen, the Colmar Pocket, and Haguenau.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 189 x 246 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526792013