Leningrad Freed, Stalingrad Defended, and Germany Defeated
About This Footage
Reel 10 of The Battle of Russia (1943) marks the climax of the Soviet struggle against the Axis forces, showcasing pivotal victories that turned the tide of World War II. The reel opens with newspaper headlines announcing Allied landings in Africa and the opening of a second front in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the Russian Army launches a massive offensive on all fronts, breaking the Siege of Leningrad and reinforcing Stalingrad with fresh troops from Siberia.
A map outlines Russia’s strategy to encircle and entrap the German Army at Stalingrad. Scenes of Christmas celebrations in the city highlight the resilience of its defenders. Footage captures the Russian military using advanced equipment, including flamethrowers, rocket guns, and ice gliders, as tanks and infantry charge across snow-covered battlefields to annihilate the German Army. The reel concludes with the destruction of Stalingrad, the surrender of German generals, and the capture of 22 divisions of German troops. Long lines of defeated soldiers and the ruins of German equipment underscore the devastating losses suffered by the Axis in their failed attempt to conquer Russia.
Part of this Complete Film
The Battle of Russia (1943) - WWII Eastern Front Documentary