January 1942

Eastern Front

Soviet forces cross the Lovat and attack Staraya Russa. The town holds, but German forces east of the Lovat are increasingly exposed to Soviet attacks, Fierce counterattacks by the 3rd SS Totenkopf and the 18th Motorized Divisions inflict heavy losses upon the 11th Army.

To the south, the 4th Shock Army attack Toropets. Bitter fighting ensues as the Soviets force the Germans out of the town. Huge quantities of munitions and supplies fall to the Soviets, who are in dire need of replenishment.

Mozhaisk falls to the 5th Army as the West Front pounds the center of the 4th Army. Kubler is dismissed from command of the 4th Army following its string of defeats. Heinrici, commanding the XLIII Corps, is appointed in his place. The XI Cavalry Corps resumes its southward attacks.

Paratroopers again land in the rear of the 4th and 9th Armies but casualties are heavy as terrible weather disperses the force through the dense forests.