Die Wehrmacht 1944 Nr 1 Ausgabe A Pt 2 - Me 323 Gigant - Finnish Armed Recon - Second Soviet-Finnish

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1944
https://filmhauer.net/wehrmacht-1944-special-editions-normal-p-31786.html

1943
https://filmhauer.net/wehrmacht-1943-special-editions-normal-p-31790.html

1942
https://filmhauer.net/wehrmacht-1942-special-editions-normal-p-31791.html

This nice 1943 footage fits in well with the second part of the video on the Die Wehrmacht Ausgabe A periodical Nr. 1 from 1944. As we take a look at the articles we’ll see more related film footage.

The second article covers a recon unit deployed far to the north, in Finland, in Karelia. During Winter months, reconnoissance of the enemy to probe their positioning, strength and intention was often only possible on foot or skis. There were no armed forces better skilled at doing this than the Fins. This 1942 Finish footage documents such a reconnoissance mission.

... and now here is a clip from a 1942 German training film which covers the defending of a prepared position in the Winter.

Before we move on the the massive Me 323 Gigant, transport plane I’d like to contrast this page from the special edition with the same page in the normal edition. In the normal edition we see photos soldiers wearing masks to camouflage their faces … which reminds me of this 1942 Hungarian footage of camouflaged motorcyclists. I love the sound of the Hungarian language.

The advanced spotter of an artillery battery is able to see the encroaching enemy from their lookout, situated in a tall tree. The enemy has managed to advance unseen in some locations all the way up to the outer defenses.

This 1942 training film shows the defense of a prepared position in Winter conditions.

The weapons are readied to fire. Hand grenades are placed within easy reach. Everything is ready for the enemy’s attack.

The heavy MGs have plenty of firepower and are usually placed to the front of the line of defense. They open up first against targets that are distant.

Other positions along the line are alerted to the possible danger.

With only a limited amount of snow the enemy is easily camouflaged. In deeper snow this kind of white tunics provide better camouflage.

As they approach the light MGs are free to open fire.

In deep snow an attack is also possible. Here a unit is attacking on skis. They conceal themselves using terrain obstacles during the advance.

Where the enemy is able to approach concealed by obstacles, and the flak is unable to be used in direct fire, indirect mortar fire can be effective.

The Me 323 Gigant, or Giant, was a massive transport capable of carrying 130 fully equipped soldiers.

It had a crew of 5, including 2 pilots, two mechanics and a navigator. It had a length of 28.5 M and a wingspan of 55 meters. The wings had a surface area of 300 m2.

The Gigant had 6 engines and its massive landing gear was made up of 10 large wheels. The body structure of the Gigant was comprised of a wooden frame covered with cloth and was quite delicate.

The transports are loaded and ready for flight. Before taking off the machine guns are mounted and tested.

The six engines power this massive plane into to the air.

This is the fastest way to carry heavy payloads over great distances.

Landing at a forward airbase.

Unloading the transport is done quickly.

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