Reel 4 of Victory in the West (Sieg im Westen) chronicles Germany’s innovative and tactical assaults during the May 1940 invasion of Belgium and the Netherlands. The reel begins with sand table animations illustrating strategic points of attack, including the River Meuse, Albert Canal, and Fort Eben Emael. Viewers witness dramatic scenes of German assault troops using rubber boats and ladders to cross rivers under heavy fire, while engineers breach the seemingly impenetrable Fort Eben Emael with TNT and flamethrowers. The narrative continues with German shock troops and tanks advancing across rivers and capturing key fortifications, supported by detailed animations of troop movements. Historic moments, such as the Dutch surrender at the Moerdijk Bridge and the armistice negotiations, provide insight into the rapid collapse of Allied defenses. The reel concludes with vivid footage of German Panzer divisions preparing for combat, street fighting in Belgium towns, and burning Allied tanks, highlighting the relentless pace of Germany’s Western Campaign.
Victory in the West (Sieg im Westen) WWII Propaganda Film - 1941