Random chatter...

[Jim von Krieg]

At Kursk the gun salvos intensify...

167th infantry division is finding itself under heavy counterattack by endless waves of Russian infantry (not expected based on the reports delivered by OKW). 11 Panzer division just on its left created a foothold on the strategic crest between Dmetrovka and Cherkasskoye. With the help of GD it should be under German control soon... With GD making decisive push and 3rd Panzer arriving at the scene as we speak the offensive action of 48th Korps is gaining momentum

71st Guards Rifle Division is hereby recognized as a Hero Unit of the Soviet Union for its gallant defense of Cherkasskoye. Even now, elements of the division fight for their life under the overwhelming pressure from forces of the Fascist Invader.

Additionally, the 67th Guards Rifle Division is hereby recognized as a Hero Unit of the Soviet Union for its heroic counter-offensive to prevent the forces of the Fascist Invader from making gains in their sector.

Our first line of defense has shattered on our right and in the center. Several of our front line regiments are pale shadows of their former strength.

Cherkasskoye has fallen, Novo Cherkasskoye will fall shortly. Our troops fought a terrific battle and fell defending the Motherland. All along the front we are slowly being pushed back by the irresistible waves of German armor and infantry. Rear guard actions erupt everywhere as the Red Army continues to fight the gray tidal wave.

So far we've been able to maintain a continuous front, but with our first defensive line broken, we teeter on the brink of disaster. Our forces fall back to the next line of resistance. Our reserves race to the front to attempt to stem the tide of the Fascist offensive.

In the center, a battle rages in Dmetrovka to hold the line, but the position is untenable as a large Panzer force to the west has flanked the position as it storms the large ridge to the northwest. Slowly, grudgingly the 90th Guards is forced back.

NKVD elements are looking for the commander of the rocket battery that was supporting the front. He is accused of treasonous and subversive misconduct in the tactical deployment of one of his batteries. It became vulnerable due to his collusion with the Fascists. Enemy Panthers destroyed the battery with long range fires from the high ground.

On the left, our counteroffensive has slowed the enemy advance. Yet, the pressure of the Fascist advance is tremendous and is beginning to inch forward as late arriving German tanks and SP guns tip the balance.

So far, the Kursk battle is a monsterous fight and the casualties on both sides are extremely steep.

Message from our Dear Comrade Stalin. Cherkasskoye has fallen! Salute to the brave defenders who gave their all for the Rodina. For those that remain in the path of the Fascist Invader, hold FAST comrades, the 1st and 5th Guards Tank Armies are on the way to throw back the vile foe.