Quote:
Originally Posted by STEED
Just put it up in bold letter when it starts.
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Not until September.
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15 July 1944
Soviet offensive to break the U-line begins in 5th Division's sector.
Major Siitonen's I/IR44 lost it's positions quickly in the beginning of the battle. First the "Maksimoff" line was broken and by noon the "ridgeline" positions of III/IR44 were overrun northwest of Nietjärvi. The enemy continued to advance north towards Maalammenmäki and west to widen the breach.
5th Division artillery played an important role in containing the breach. The division had 11 Artillery Battalions at its disposal along with coastal guns in the area. Various artillery pieces fired a total of 20,000 rounds during the day, more than had been fired at Tali-Ihantala in any given day.
Major General Martola's VI AK reinforced the 5th Division with two battalions from 15th Brigade (15.Pr). Major Väänänen's IV/15.Pr was immediately given orders to attack to the shore of Nietjärvi from northeast to prevent the enemy from widening the breakthrough to the east. Captain Kujari's I/15.Pr was to attack against the enemy west of Teirisuo and throw them back. Together with Major Pokkanen's II/IR45, the enemy at Teirisuo was pushed back during the evening and the following night.
Finnish daily losses: 299
Soviet POW showcases his body armor. (Syskyjärvi)