[Homer_J_Simpson]

The West Point Military History Series, Thomas E. Griess, Editor, The Second World War: Europe and the Mediterranean

[Homer_J_Simpson]

Prime Minister to Lord President of the Council 17 July 43

I have promised Lord Winterton a further communication about the building of the agricultural cottages. I now feel however that as I should like him to have a fuller explanation of the position than could conveniently be contained in a letter it would be helpful if you could see Lord Winterton yourself. *

* See minute of July 3 to Lord President.

Winston S. Churchill, Closing the Ring

[henkster]

HQ II SS Panzer Corps has departed to Italy, and Leibstandarte is en route. SS Divsions Das Reich and Totenkopf were also scheduled to go, but before they could depart the crisis on the Mius blew up, and the trains were sent east rather than west.

Both divisions are below strength, in both infantry and panzers, due to the heavy combat in Zitadelle. And the troops are tired. Nor will 6th Army commander Hollidt use them effectively. Hollidt was a capable infantry commander who cobbled the new 6th Army together from various scraps during the winter. He performed miracles to put the army together and hold his front, but offensive panzer operations are not his forte.