February 1942

Eastern Front

The German relief force from Velikiye Luki links up with Group Sinzinger at Velizh, The 4th Shock Army, however, remains at the gates, making an all-out effort to overrun the garrision before it can be reinforced. The 4th Shock also attempts to overcome Demidov, but agains the Germans beat back each attack.

Fighting erupts around Rzhev as the 30th and 39th Armies attempt to relieve the remnants of the 29th Army trapped near the town. A counterattack by the 1st Panzer Division isolates the 29th west of Rzhev. The Soviets attack with the 39th Army and 30th Army from the west and north to try to free the 29th.

The next phase of Zhukov's attack begins as the 14th Airborne Brigade drops west of Yukhnow. Losses are again heavy, many of the men being scattered on landing. Over the next few days, the Soviets will continue to drop paratroopers into the Yukhnow area.