LATVIAN BATTALIONS IN THE UKRAINE
At the beginning of May 1942 from Riga for the Ukraine was sent 23rd Gaujas and 27th Burtnieku Latvian Police Battalion and from Lepele 17th Vidzemes Police battalion. Later for Ukraine also was sent five other Latvian Police Battalions. These Latvian battalions were sent for combat in the Crimean, by Kercas Sea narrows.
23rd BATTALION
23rd Gaujas battalion fourth company began forming 25th of February 1942 in Boldera. Battalion Commander was Captain. K. Brigadiers, 1st Company Commander — First Lieutenant E. Klavins, 2nd Company — First Lieutenant Z Skurulis, 3rd Company — First Lieutenant F. Kondrats, 4th Company — Captain. K. Vitolins and German commander — Police Hptm. Fichtlers. The battalion count was 432 soldiers and they were dressed in Latvian Army uniforms. Until the month of May, the battalion completed training in Boldera, mainly with commands, weapons and marching.
12th of May, the battalion left for the Ukraine with 15 officers, 67 NCO’s and 423 soldiers. Armaments were Russian rifles and several different automatic rifles. After about two weeks of road, travel the battalion on 26th of May showed up at Dnepropetrovska. Here the battalion submitted to German Army commander in the Ukraine. The Battalion headquarters was left behind in Dnepropetrovska, but Company occupied about a 100 km area. Housing was in villages, along the IV War road, which went from Dnepropetrovska easterly towards Rostova. Battalion orders were to supervise and protect road-building work done by Russian civilians from the surrounding kolkhozes. For every 300 workers was designated one group of soldiers. Soldier’s jobs were terrible for the heat many days reached over 50°C and light uniforms were not available. With the workers and surrounding people, the Latvian soldier’s attitude was good.
The food supply was officer weekly from storage buildings in Dnepropetrovska so that it could not spoil fast. Soldiers themselves prepared “Ukraine pudding" Sunflower oil with cooked onions. Unaccustomed to the great heat many soldiers fell sick with dysentery. In the fourth company, many fell sick also with typhoid.
Road construction workers supervision was finished in December. After that, the battalion several months was without any orders. In the spring of 1943 the Battalion soldiers’ officer new German Police uniforms, but the Latvian Army unit insignia was left behind.
In the month of March, the Battalion was transferred to the Zaporozje region but the Battalion headquarters was left behind at Dnepropetrovska. At Zaporozje, the battalion supervised tank rebuilding and bunker construction. After several months all battalion were again gathered at Dnepropetrovska and sent to Kercu with orders supervise bridge construction across Kercas Sea narrows. Here the battalion strength was about 300 men, because many were in hospitals while others were arbitrarily heading for Riga, so that they could join the Latvian Legion.
In October, the front approached Kercas and the battalion with hardship at the last moment boarded 12 railroad platform cars, left Kercu, and spent on the road one whole month, traveling through Romania and showed up at Kovel. Here at Kovel — Bresta region the battalion was involved with antiterrorist combat. In this region operated three types of terrorists: Polish nationalists, Polish communists and Russian communists. These terrorists in this region one month time was blew up 62 trains.
Even though General Bangerskis on 28th of December had requested Jekeln for the Battalions return to Latvia, in January 1944 attached to some German Police company and was involved on the front in Rovno region. At this time the battalion had shrank to 140 men, but occupied a front width of 6 km. So weakly was this area defended that one night two enemy companies sneaked through and the next day liquidated a German unit.
February’s end the battalion was withdrawn from the front and second of March returned to Riga.
17th VIDZEMES BATTALION
May of 1942 in White Russia, Dnepropetrovska, showed up also 17th Vidzemes Battalion. First weeks the battalion filled guard duty and completed training. When the German front was overrun at Charkova the battalion in a great hurry transferred to the region, where they occupied a several km wide defensive line.
After Charkova line was restored, the battalion again transferred back to Dnepropetrovska and guard duty. 21st of July, Captain Skrauja was replaced as Battalion commander with promoted Captain. J. Nikanu. The battalion stayed at Dnepropetrovska until May 1943, when it joined with 25th Abavas battalion, which was found by White Russia’s border
27th BURTNIEKUBATTALION
27th Burtnieku battalion was formed March 1942 in Mangalsala. First Battalion Commander was Captain K. Bems and German commander — Police Hptm. Keincs. Battalion consisted of 20 officers, 48 NCO’s and 437 soldiers. Armaments were 515 rifles, several grenade launchers and automatic-rifles.
On 13th May the battalion was sent to Grisino (Postisevo) Ukraine, 1st company commander was Captain E. Strauts, 2nd Company — Captain E. Mezitis, 3rd Company — First Lieutenant V. Riekstins (later First Lieutenant K. Gaikis) and 4th Company —First Lieutenant J. Miesnieks. In the Ukraine, the battalion filled guard duty and finished training. In July, Captain Bems got sick and was replaced on 3rd of August by Pltn. K. Ziverts.
January 13, 1943 the battalion by railroad was transferred to Kremennaju, where it showed up 19th of January. At Grisino village, they left behind many of the Battalion equipment under First Lieutenant K. Gaika and several soldiers’ supervision. At this time the Battalion commanders were, 1st Company First Lieutenant K. Agilities, 2nd Company — Captain E. Mezitis, 3rd Company —Lieutenant Skambergs and 4th Company — Lieutenant J. Mazurs.
Battalion was placed at Kremennaja (Doneca region), at that time very cold, about —40°c. Soldiers did not have warm clothing and it made a great impact on fighting ability, because many limbs suffered frostbite.
Several days after arriving at Kremennaja, news that the Russians had overran German defensive front and had not stopped until reaching Don’s eastern shore. The battalion officer orders to leave Kremennaju on 23rd of January to proceed through Ruwithoutnoje and Lisicansku headed for Verchnajas, where already next day took up defensive positions along Don’s right shore, including Verchnaja and Belaja Gora village, because enemy was approaching the rivers left shore.
Time from 24th —28th of January, the Battalions 4th Company reconnaissance group excursions lost 3 fallen (soldiers V. Kapostu, F. Bitmani and A. Zeivotu) and 2 wounded.
28th of January 4th Company participated in the attack on Borovskojas Village Don’s left shore, which was occupied by many Red soldiers who drove the enemy from village and was occupied by the Battalion’s 3rd and 4th Company. Two 4th Company men were wounded.
January 29th 1st Company headed for Belaja Gora village, and 2nd Company for Toskovku (Ustinovku), where took up defensive positions Don’s right shore.
31st of January 1st Company at Belaja Gora was joined with 4th Company, and 2nd Company at Toskovka with 3rd Company. Here the Battalion defensive line was 6—7 km wide, but to the neighboring units was a great distance, which was guarded with patrols, which made the area greater. It was hard defending this big area because the Battalion armaments were weak, because of a shortage of automatic weapons. Last few days was also observed stronger Russian strength concentrations on Don’s left shore.
1st Company at Belaja Gora village officer orders to place on the Don’s left shore across Borovskoja village two forward groups. 1st of February afternoon the forward group by forest border Southwest from Borovskojas village, saw an approaching enemy reconnaissance unit. The group allowed the enemy to approach to a close distance and then opened surprising fire. The enemy, losing 4 fallen and 2 wounded, retreated. Later the enemy recovering from the surprise tried to go around from right flank. The forward group not having automatic weapons was pressed to retreat for the Don’s right shore. Also the next day they met with many enemy patrols.
2nd of February morning the enemy in Battalion strength attacked Belaja Gora village from the south. The enemy was driven back by 4th Company and 2 groups from 1st Company, one German Company and 2 German tanks. Enemy left on the field many fallen and various equipment. 4th Company lost 1 fallen and 3 wounded. Next day the enemy attacked continuously and 4th Company again lost 2 fallen and 4 wounded.
2nd February heavy fighting happened also at Toskovka (Ustinovka), defended by the Battalions 2nd and 3rd Company. Both Companies pressed by the enemy retreated on 5th of February evening to Belaja Gora village. Night of 6th of February both Companies were ordered to return to Toskovku, because German tanks had driven back the enemy. To Toskovku from Belaja Gora headed Captain Mezisas’ unit of 17 men from 3rd Company and 24 men from 2nd Company. Left behind at Belaja Gora village, both remaining company’s officer enemy attacks about Battalion strength where 2nd Company Commander Captain fell. E. Mezitis fell. All night long in Belaja Gora village there was heavy close combat with the enemy. Only with morning, dawn together with German help the enemy was driven out. The enemy had very many fallen and dropped all types weapons. Heavy losses were also in both Companies: 2nd Company —12 fallen and 4 wounded, but 3rd Company, 4 fallen and 6 wounded. Also next day the Russians shot up the village with artillery.
Battalion soldiers, with continuous combat many days and without due supplies, were complete tired. 6th of February early morning, the battalion together with German units left Belaja Gora village and through Gorskoju and Konstantinovku headed for Grisino for rest. The road led through Uljanovas village, which they reached 10th of February. However, approaching Grisino, they found the enemy with one infantry regiment and 30 tanks there. Soldiers returned back to Uljanova and through Stalino and Zaporozju headed for Dnepropetrovsku, who first groups reached 16th of February. Battalion composite had shrunk with many fallen and wounded and many lost through travel.
1943 20th of February an unhappy German shot Battalion commander Pltn. K. Zivertu. After this tragic happening, healthy Battalion soldiers were incorporated in the 23rd Gaujas Latvian Police battalion, but the sick were sent to Riga. This ended the 27th Burtnieku Battalion
28th BARTAS BATTALION
28th Bartas Latvian Police battalion began forming February 1942 in Liepaja. Battalion was expected to be a guard battalion. That time Liepaja formed also many fighting battalions, but volunteer center had a great number of older men and also soldiers with bad health. They separated from these fighting battalions (21st, 24th, and 25th) and were assigned to the new formed Bartas Battalion. The Latvian Battalion commander was First Lieutenant K. Musins.
The Battalion strength on 10th of March battalion consisted of 8 officers, 10 NCO’s and 106 soldiers. They were 1st Company that was commanded by promoted Lieutenant E. Balodi. During the rest of March, they waited for the completion of 2nd, 3rd and 4th Company. Starting with 11th of March, Battalion commander was Pltn. A. Gramatis.
From 29th of April until 15th of May, battalion soldiers who were landowners were given leave to plant their crops.
Battalion soldiers were armed with Latvian Army’s English rifles, Russian machine guns and automatic rifles, and with German hand grenades and a small amount of Russian machine pistols. More armaments were acquired when the battalion became involved in the Ukraine combating communist terrorists.
Battalion soldiers were dressed in Latvian Army uniforms but later they delivered several different types of German uniforms so that the soldiers looked spotted.
26th of May the German liaisons officer Police Hptm. Borchardu transferred for another battalion and his place was promoted Police Hptm. Siverkropu (Siewerkropp).
9th of June Pltn. Gramatinu transferred to Riga, and was replaced by Captain E. Smits. 11th of June changed also the battalion adjutant; First Lieutenant Kunausa was replaced by First Lieutenant Vinters.
From February 1942 until 30th of June the battalion completed intensive training, because Battalion consisted idealistic volunteers soldiers by largest part were untrained, and some from the 1st World War and Latvian freedom combat time.
14th of May, Liepajas Sv. Annas Church provost K. Valters confirmed 35 Battalion soldiers.
19th of May Liepajas National Relief Organization at the state gymnasium hall presented national flags to 25th Abavas, 28th Bartas and 268th Erglu Latvian Police Battalions. The flags presented by Liepajas city elder J. Blaus. After prayers for a safe return and a free country, the battalions paraded through town.
Approaching departure day from Liepajas, 1st and 2nd June, Liepaja’s civilians parted from 24th Talsu and 28th Bartas battalions.1st of June they held church services at Sv. Annas Church. Church services ended with every one singing — GOD BLESS LATVIA.
2nd of June at Kuru Field, both battalions participated in a parade with thousands lining the field. The parade was observed by German Army Commander of Latvia Police Commander Knecht. After many speeches, the soldiers sang German and Latvian state hymns. At this time, the Battalion had 52 officers, 61 NCO’s and 420 soldiers.
Due to German delays, the Battalion only left on 30th of June for Krivoj Rogas region in the Ukraine, where battalion was guard duties.
At Krivoj Roga, the battalion was to guard the newly built highway there for about 30 km on both sides. 3rd Company headquarters was in Dnepropetrovska southern border, but all rest of the Company was divided between Dnepropetrovska and Pavlovgradu. Pavlovgrada was occupied by one group. Last support point was 10 km east from Pavlovgradas, there occupied 2 groups from 3rd Company. Between Battalion command and 3rd Company filled 17th Vidzemes and 23rd Gaujas battalion. These battalions were also strongly divided.
Due to lack of any great terrorist activity 28th, Bartas Battalion returned to Riga July 11th 1943.
After Stalingrad’s tragedy in 1943 began the Red army’s massive attack from Voroneza area through the forests with strong tank, strength drove large wedge between Dnepropetrovska and Kremencuga, crossing the Dnepr River and locked a large encirclement arch to the Black Sea east from Odessa. Red Army forward groups also reached Dnepr’s river and crossed about 10 km north from Dnepropetrovskas. However, when this strong enemy wedge destroyed German strength of mainly "Hitlerjugend" SS division they themselves also lost not less then 80% from their units.
This attacking Russian wedge moved comparatively slow, but by smaller encirclements only guaranteed their side strength. That way Russian side guards units approached also Pavlovgrada to about 9 km and stayed there for two weeks, while the wedge spire broke forward. During this time in Pavlovgrada, the placed half unit fought fierce battles on Pavlovgrada streets and factory complexes against a Russian battalion (about 300 men). In this combat participated also small German rear guard units and some Italian Company.
3rd Company men in Pavlovgrada led by Company Commander First Lieutenant N. Lecmanis, and the rest of the soldiers retreated to Dnepropetrovska. 3rd Company 1st and 3rd units from the support centers retreated by highway, officer strong rifle, machinegun and grenade launcher fire, from partisans, and from Red Army wedge side patrols and tanks. Retreat went with order with only one soldier wounded.
Week later at February months end, the Red Army units surrounded Pavlovgrada. That garrison, composed of German, Italian and Latvian soldiers, fought heavy close combat against tank reinforcements still broke out from the city. From 3rd Company about 26 men, which were included in Pavlovgrada’s garrison, who were separated from their group, the Russian tanks turned them back. These men fell to the Russians as prisoners. From the remaining, only two heavily wounded. 3rd Company did not participate in any further combat.
After this great Red Army wedge combat, when front again stabilized at Donas river, the units returned previous support points to guard the highway, but without 3rd Company . German high command had asked the air force to destroy the town so now Pavlovgrada was only in ruins. 3rd Company returned at the start of April 1943 but was pulled back and divided into support points 20 km zone west of Dnepropetrovska.
Remaining Battalion Company on June 1943 gathered at Krivoj Roga and after 3 week long rest and training, battalion suddenly rearmed and sent for Riga, where it arrived 12th of July. 15th of July, they were transferred to the Latvian Legion as 34th Regiment III battalion.
25th ABAVAS BATTALION
25th Abavas battalion began forming equally with 4 different battalions March beginning 1942 in Liepaja from Kurzeme’s area with Latvian volunteers. Composition of the Battalion at the beginning was 15 officers, 62 NCO’s and 389 soldiers. Battalion commander was Pltn. Plikausis, 1st Company — First Lieutenant 2nd Zemgals, 2nd Company — First Lieutenant R. Jaunlinins and 3rd Company — First Lieutenant R. Aluts, later Captain. E. Puce. German liaisons officer was Police Hptm. H. Mevs (Mew).
Battalion soldiers were dressed in Latvian Army clothes with Latvian Army rank designations. Battalion training was completed at Liepaja seashore after Latvian Army regulations.
July 1, 1942 they left for the Ukraine and after many days travel the battalion reached Korostenu. After unloading, the soldiers moved into barracks, but already that same day arrived orders to march to Ovrucu. The battalion marched orderly without rest and showed up the next day.
At Ovrucos, the battalion occupied barracks, each Company their own floor. Issued Russian rifles and 1—2 machine guns each Company and also clothes, linen, socks and shoes. Battalion while doing guard duty also did soldier training. Soon the training was interrupted because local German police units no longer could uphold order. Everywhere operated communist terrorists. At Remes prisoner gathering point, the terrorists exterminated 14 men. Everywhere was a call for help. The battalion was divided and billeted at separate support points.
September 1942 beginning in Ovrucu hospital died soldiers A. Sils and Z. Steinblums.
September end Battalion units was placed as following: Battalion headquarters, and 3rd Company 3 groups — Ovrucos; 1st Company 2 group —Skorodnoje and one group together with Slovakian group — Jelska; 2nd Company 2 group — Lelcica and one group — Bujnovicos
All groups were used to support all other units and cover very large distances from 130—160 km. Distances were increased so that the terrorists didn’t have freedom of movement by every road. Only thoroughfare was Mozirjas—Jelska— Ovrucu road, by which groups could move with strong defenses. Orders and operations were not easily given for they used the telephone but many didn’t work for as soon line from one end was repaired, then other end broke. Continuous hardships were with transport trucks. The battalion had only one light transport. Then in Ovrucos arrived a motorized Slovakian division, which helped transport for terrorist combat but the Germans took the trucks away to the dismay of the Slovakians and Latvians. Because of this, they had a very good attitude between them.
Battalion support points were the following orders;
1st Company 2 groups; guard many local civilians around Skorodnoje and area from terrorist incursions and settlement; 3rd group in Jelska was defend narrow-gauge railroad train from Jelska to Bujnovici and back. This railroad transported war material, and upheld Battalion support points. Trains normally put together from several passenger cars. In front of the locomotive were two platform wagons, covered with sand bags. Every platform had 4—7 soldiers with two automatic rifles. The train sides were marked with the death head with writing "Green devil”, for the terrorists were wearing green clothing.
2nd Company 2nd group Lelcica and one group at Bujnovicos was used as a support center way the local habitants were guarded against terrorists
3rd Company in Ovrucos always on alarm situation, so that every time an alarm came in would be able to proceed to where they were needed. 3rd Company accompanied also all transports, Latvian, German and Slovakian.
During this time period to the battalion was attached also 2 antitank cannon. Dressed soldiers were in Latvian Army clothes with Latvian Army insignia. Upkeep was very bad.
Septembers end 1942; terrorist work in Ovrucu area became more and more menacing. October beginning from Remezi village informed that about 8 km south from village they found a terrorist camp. 3rd Company Commander Captain Puce officer from Battalion commander orders to liquidate terrorist camp. Company headed with auto trucks for Jelsku and further on foot for the camp. Already by the road, soldiers observed terrorist guards on horses retreating to the thick forest. When Company came to forest border about 1 km from terrorist camps, they arranged the attack and headed into the forests thickness. When 1st unit reached the camp, the terrorists had already left, leaving on the fires large kettles filled with meat and much equipment. 3rd Company this time was lucky to gather large cache without shot. In addition, they found a large cattle herd, which was driven to Jelsku.
Returning from the camp to Jelsku, the forward group received heavy fire from the terrorists who had lined the road and some in the trees. After a firefight the terrorists retreated and the company reached, Jelsku and next day returned to Ovrucos.
October 1942 started a strong terrorist push direction from Brjanskas to Gomelu—Mozirju—Jelsku and further for Pripjata swamp. By Brjanskas came through many thousand Red Army, which was special trained terrorist activity, and settled in Brjanskas areas forests in the rear of German front lines and organize a wider partisan movement. This Red Army terrorist group orders was to proceed deeply behind German lines and reach the Russian -Polish border and Pripjata River swamp.
The German rear in this region was very weakly guarded, so the regular Red Army units and local terrorists with newly organized and new armaments hurriedly preceded west, mobilized from each inhabited place all men and women from 16—60 wears old. Then showed up as a very strong unit and stood across from only weak German, Hungarian, Slovakian and Latvian units. Short time this rear strength was managed to move west from Brjanskas about 300 km. Some forward units, crossed Dnepr and Pripjatas River at Novembers beginning and were approaching Jelska.
At Jelska at this time was found only one Slovakian unit and one group from 25th Abavas Battalion. At Mozirja, which is found on Pripjatas left shore and about 3 km north from Jelska, found only German commander and few police units. The roads from Mozirjas to Ovrucu had every bridge guarded by one Slovakian unit, because this was the only useable road for traffic between Mozirju and Zitomiru.
18th of November from 3rd Company was sent 2 groups to Jelska, one group under Lieutenant Pauksts and second under Lieutenant V. Redelis. Both groups by heavy truck traveled about 100 km to Jelska reaching it that evening. The city was in panic. Latvian soldiers were billeted at positions around the city. In came news that the bridge between Mozirju and Jelsku by Sannuki village was blown up and the Slovakian unit, which guarded the bridge, were all killed. Shortly before the Latvian soldier’s arrival, a Slovakian unit from Jelska had departed to investigate and by next morning had not yet returned.
That night in Jelska showed up Battalion Commander Pltn. Plikausis, 3rd Company Commander Captain E. Puce, 2 Lithuanian Companies and a Slovakian unit. In addition, the 2nd Company showed up led by Captain Jaunlinina. German leader Pltn. Plikausi drew up the defense perimeter of Jelska.
When the Slovakian unit still had not returned, at 08.30 Pltn. Plikausis ordered 2nd Company commander Captain Jaulinina to do a new reconnaissance for Sannuki Bridge. Captain Jaunlinina ordered take along from 2nd Company 1 group, from 3rd Company Lieutenant Paukstu with 1 group and Lieutenant Redeli with 1 group.
First left Lieutenant Redela with his unit for Sannuki Bridge. When the unit was about 1 km beyond the city, they heard from the northwest 1—2 km distance strong machine gun fire. Unit stopped and waited for Captain Jaunlinina arrival. Together they changed reconnaissance direction from north (Sannuki bridge) to a northwest direction for Pilnas village, which was in the forests center and from where was heard the shooting. Move to Sannuki Bridge didn’t have meaning because the enemy could close the Companies retreat road. Front unit Lieutenant Redelas’ unit half running headed across some field until Mozirjas-Korostenas railroad line and, turned to Pilnas village. From forest edge could clearly see, that village filled with Red Army soldiers. First unit waited for the rest of the group’s arrival, after which the Company took up positions.
Company attacked the village from three sides: north, easterly and south. From fire from opening moment along village, eastern side fell from their horses, Russian Komisar and aid. Red soldiers and terrorists from village fled, leaving their horses and wagons, heading for forest road to Sannuki— Pilna—Remezi. Company was already holding the village, when the last Russians leaving, blew up the windmill. The company’s swift attack surprised the Russians and they realized they couldn’t organize and take up defensive positions. The groups, estimated at 1000—1200 men, scattered or were killed. Company without already mentioned horses and wagons also gathered 12 horses’ wagons with munitions, medical supplies personal supplies and also 3 large dead hogs, cattle meat, clothes and many other materials. Horses and ox wagons, which were found on the forest road, couldn’t be taken along, because the Russians began to counterattack and tried to close the retreat road. In this fight, the Russian losses were very large, in human, and materials terms. The Company losses were zero.
The Company returning to Jelska found the Germans were already all prepared to blow up the city but Commander Pltn. Plikausis stopped it and forbid anyone to leave.
Next day in came the news that after our company left from Pilnas Village, Red soldiers and partisans there again returned and after reorganizing headed southwest towards Remezi village. The Battalion Commander ordered 2nd and 3rd Company to follow the enemy to Remezi Village, which was found about 8 km southwest from Jelska.
Company approaching Remezi Village, found that the bridge at the entrance to the village was blown up. Terrorists had already left but left behind the bodies of the missing Slovakian unit in a barn. Company put out strong guard about village that night and next morning returned to Jelska. Next days 25th Abavas Battalion returned to Ovrucos.
Terrorist attacks grew in number and in a wider area. Alarming news came from Skorodnojes, Bujnovicieni and Lelcicas. At Lelcica, the Russians had surrounded and destroyed one 2nd Company group, commanded by Lieutenant Kazens. Only one soldier escaped.
As soon as 3rd Company was returned Ovrucos and rested several days, they officer orders to proceed for northeast to Braginu and Lojevu, where a large enemy group was operating. At Lojeva, there was supposed to be a Slovakian company and some German army rear guard unit of several soldiers and at Bragina were German police units and fire brigade police.
26. November 1942, Captain Puces 3rd Company headed for Lojevu, where found only fresh graves, pillaged and burned down homes. Only one day, passed since the terrorists had left the city. Killed were many German soldiers, city elders and many local inhabitants. The terrorist column was headed further west. Company headed further for Braginu. There the terrorists, learning about the approaching Latvian Company, had left going north. The company left behind Braginas guarded.
On 6th of December 3rd Company left for Lojevu the next day, Battalions 2nd Company was to follow, but they officer other orders to proceed for Slovecno, west from Ovrucos. 3rd Company returning from Braginas shortly before Christmas to Ovrucos on 31st of December on foot headed for Slovecno Zalikovkas region, where was appeared a large Russian group which occupied many villages and had built strong defensive bunkers. Slovecno city was completely burned down.
Evening of 31st of December, 3rd Company reached Slovecno, where they occupied the local movie theater, which was only building with roof, but without doors and windows. Before it was a stable for German horses. About 21:00 started a strong Slovakian artillery fire at the terrorist fortified Zalikovka village. The barrage ceased after several hours.
When 3rd Company 1st of January, early morning, headed further towards Zalikovkas direction, everywhere was broken sleds, dead horses and people. That night Zalikovkas was occupied by Slovakian, Latvian and Lithuanian units. In the village, they found 2 mutilated Latvian soldiers. Fortified bunkers found outside the village, were used as mine manufacturing and weapons arsenal. Road mines prepared by the terrorists, taking explosives from artillery grenades, which were discarded from Stalin line.
In 1942, all fallen Battalion soldiers were buried in Jelska and Ovrucus newly built graveyards. Jelska had beautiful cemetery, where all fallen soldiers from 80 km distance were brought until in Ovrucos by the old graveyard built a new soldier graves with sections for Latvians, Ukraines, Hungarians, and Slovakians. This grave yard was built in hope that after the war they would be brought home..
January 1943 the battalion officer German Police uniforms. To separate markings from German units, the Latvian soldiers for right hand sleeve was sewn Latvian colors shield.
January 1943 in Slovecno region a German regiment had come upon terrorist bunkers and suffered heavy losses. The regiment informed German Police group in Ovrucos and asked help. The 25th Abavas Battalion 3rd Company was in Ovrucos, and was ordered to give aid. The temperature was —35° C, which was bad with the poor clothing. From German headquarters showed up some German officer with heavy trucks and took the company for 60 km distance to the battle area. There Company officer orders secure the road from German Army Regiment headquarters to Slovecno main road and check out the village, to make sure it was free of terrorists.
One unit immediately began to fill road guard duty. From the local inhabitants quickly ascertained the terrorist’s whereabouts, and roads, which were used for supply. Company second unit officer gathered wagons from locals in the village and headed check out the acquired information. Group overtook and surprised a terrorist group on the road coming from some village heading for the forest. This terrorist group was exterminated with automatic rifle fire, relinquishing weapons and munitions. That night the group managed to surprise many terrorists out gathering food supplies. There were also several shootouts with the terrorist groups. That same evening at the village showed up about 20 wagons with fallen, wounded and feet frozen German soldiers. This transport our men accompanied until reaching Slovecno main road.
In several days time the company had fulfilled their orders and ensured the German Army units delivery of supplies. Company wagons returned to Ovrucos.
Latvian mode of combat with the terrorists, especially security against surprises, turned out very well. It still was a problem because of the deep snow, traveling sometimes 60 Km to respond to a situation and not receiving any replacements for the fallen.
May 5th 1943 Abavas Battalion merged with 17th Vidzemes Battalion. The composite:
Battalion Commander — Pltn. K. Plikausis, German liaisons officer Major H. Mevs, management director — Captain Dzelme, 1st Company Commander — Captain E. Puce, 2nd Company — First Lieutenant J Lidums (later First Lieutenant Skalde), 3rd Company — Captain H. Gutmanis, Battalion doctor —Major K. Juvars.
10th of May 1943 from 1st Company 90 soldiers assigned terrorist combat in Pripjatas River region. They departed by automobile for a rendezvous with the area commander with 20 soldiers and automobiles drove the company to Pripjatas River headquarters, which the soldiers occupied until the next day.
Later the Company commander Director SS Hstuf. Veterle showed up at Pripjatas River defensive area, informed company officers about the general overall situation, and expressed his plans, so that already right away dispatched one group to occupy the planned village, placed there several surveillance posts, attempt also to intercept orders sent to the terrorists. This assignment was given to Lieutenant Bailisa’s group, which after short reorganizing headed out with one light and two heavy trucks. Rest of the company was scheduled to arrive the next morning.
Terrorists and also regular Red Army units, all in all 2,000— 3,000 men strong, operated in a woody region about 70 km east from Pripjatas River, but about 500 men strong group operated west from Pripjatas river Jelska, Skorodnoje, and Slovecno region. To combat this large rear area Red Army group east from Pripjatas river was engaged German Army units with orders to not let them reach Pripjatas river, but river protection against the crossings from Mozirjas to the Slovecno River only found 2 German Police Company, 1 German SS Company and 1 Latvian Company. All these Company were incomplete in personnel. Last orders was to safeguard Pripjatas river area villages from terrorist requisitions and deny it and keep the Red Army units from rivers eastern side cross and link up with west side groups. 25th Abavas Battalion 1st Company’s’ area along the Pripjatas River shoreline was about 2 km wide was overgrown with bushes, by that along shore was also many small islets. Visibility therefore was very made difficult. The company setup surveillance posts with reserves in the village. At night the posts and patrols were strengthened.
First night passed comparatively peacefully and captured only food suppliers to the terrorists and several terrorists by the rivers western shore.
19th of May morning under v.v. Zvirbula’s leadership, the patrol observed, that in the neighboring district was moving a terrorist column. When the patrol was about 1200 meter distance they opened fire. Terrorists replied with grenade launcher and automatic weapons fire and occupied positions along Slovecno River. In the area operated also 2 other patrols, center and left, but from them didn’t have any news about enemy movement. It was still take into account that the enemy on the western shore, attacked the company support points, to occupy them so that the eastern shore terrorists could cross Pripjatas River.
Lieutenant Bailitis was ordered with one group of 50 men to cross the river opposite neighboring village and assault the enemy together with the neighboring company. Lieutenant Bailisa group hold along Slovecno river right shore, Company Commander with Lieutenant Saukantu and remaining men headed for Company right district, where it was expected to take up positions with 2 machine guns and many automatic rifles.
Lieutenant Bailitis with his group reached the hill by Slovecno River and, reaching their objective — opened fire with automatic weapons. Distance from the enemy (about 1500 m) still was to great to do damage with the terrorists immediately opening counter fire with mortar and automatic weapons counter fire. They halted their attack while the remaining company soldiers took up positions. Also from there they could observe all enemy movement around them.The enemy soon regained composure and opened a very strong mortar and automatic weapons fire so that the company couldn’t return fire. Heavily was wounded also mortar director Sergeant Berzins. Company Commander ordered the group to changed positions. Our mortars couldn’t be used, because their distance was only 800 m.
Lieutenant Bailitim did not have any success in finding or coordinating defenses with the neighboring Ukrainian company. The Ukrainians, observing the approaching terrorist column, had fled into the woods. The terrorist’s group’s capability to move forward only lasted for a short time. Under strong enemy fire the company advanced to Slovecno River left shore, where they took up new positions and did not allow the enemy to cross Slovecno River.
The fighting in the region ceased after 7 hours, and the enemy couldn’t breakout through the Company’s area. In this fight unusual valor was shown by the machinegun detachments and individual soldiers such as Dkar. Penks and Teters under enemy fire many times swam Slovecno and brought across from Lieutenant Bailisa unit two wounded soldiers, and brought across the river many enemy wagons with war material and their horses.
After fighting terrorists together with Red Army units, well armed, headed southwest direction, raiding many villages. In this fight the company lost 2 heavy and 2 lightly wounded soldiers, but enemy lost about 200 wounded and fallen.
The fighting had finished but Pripjatas left shore didn’t have peace. Then First Lieutenant A. Suna, bringing to Jelska by trucks support munitions, was attacked losing one fallen and 2 wounded. Soon after that all Battalion units were gathered in Jelska.
June 1943 the battalion again participated in terrorist fighting in Ovrucu and Jelska regions. Battalion headquarters administrative personnel were with Captain Z. Zemgali in Ovruco, but combat headquarters with the units. Continuous combat operations, each day by the battalion carried larger losses. Special hardships were provided by the terrorist self prepared different system and standards mines. Mined was not only larger roads, but small paths, fields and entrances to villages and forests so that no mater how careful a soldier was, still had losses from mines.
The front with each day came more and more closer. Now the terrorists jeopardized not only troops and support centers, but threatened to completely halt railroad movement on Sepetovkas—Zitodieds—Kiev region railroad guarded by Hungarian units. They had built solid support centers, but safeguard of the railroad could not be maintained.
25th Abavas battalion was also involved in these railroads defenses. Battalions 1st Company allocated to guard a district about 8 km in length. This area was also found one Hungarian support point with one officer and about 40 soldiers. Taking over guarding railroad section, 1st Company Commander agreed with Hungarian support points commander, that during the day Hungarians guarded 4 km and Latvians 4 km, but at night the Latvians guarded all 8 km, except the span 400 m on the left and right from Hungarian support station. At night the company guarded the railroad completed with ambush and with walking patrols. First two weeks the mission went well. At various times the company soldiers also were involved with forests combing of terrorists. Returning from these actions, the soldiers right away had to go ambush, patrols, or stand guard at designated locations. Rest was denied day and night and the same situation was suffered rest of the remaining battalions companies. There were also several fallen.
Month of November the railroad support points began receiving assault by Russian aviation. These aerial attacks also gave battalion losses. Soldiers guarding the railroad were unhappy and demanded to be part of the Latvian Legion. The soldier’s demands were presented to the German Command.
In December the battalion was freed from railroad guarding and for 2 days involved in terrorist combat. After that battalion by railroad they returned to Latvia and occupied Boldera. Soldiers received 2 week leave and January 1944 the battalion was incorporated into 2nd Liepajas Police Regiment.
268th ERGLU (18E) BATTALION
16th of March 1942 Captain Lagzdins began in Liepaja forming fifth Latvian battalion — 18E Latvian Police battalion. Already after several days German High Command Commander in Latvia promoted Pltn. J. Ruceli, which Battalion commander replaced 22nd March. 23rd of March battalion started training as a 3 company unit, but already next day SS and Police Commander Kurland Ditrichs notified that the battalion was planned as a 5 company and right away started forming 4th and 5th Company.
30th of March from Liepaja for the front departed 21st Liepajas Battalion, and the 18E Erglu Battalion replaced 21st Battalions quarters at Peldu and Toma street corner, five stories building which locals named "Blue Wonder". During the communist occupation time 1940/41 it was occupied by the Ceka. There occupied Battalion headquarters and first 3 Companies. 9th of April 2nd Company moved to the school building Ulicha Street, where 10th of April began forming the 5th (reserves) company. 20th of April the battalion started to fill guard duty Liepaja.
1st of May the Battalion commanders were Battalion Commander — Pltn. J. Rucelis, Management director — Lieutenant K. Ozols, 1st Company Commander — Captain J. Kirsons, 2nd Company — First Lieutenant Gravelis, 3rd Company — First Lieutenant A. Salmins, 4th Company — Captain A. Tomass and 5th Company — Lieutenant Bambers, Battalion doctor — Captain F. Staks.
6th of May the battalion for time was attached the 24th Talsu Battalion sapper group of 44 men consisted of Commander First Lieutenant Mals. The sapper group was in Liepaja to finish training before it was able to follow the battalion for White Russia.
18th of May, 18E battalion transferred from 268. Erglu Battalion. 9th of June from Battalion separated the 4th and 5th Company personnel into the new formed E (Ersatz) battalion, led by Kltn. M. Baumanis. At this time the battalion began to prepare for departure for the East. On 17th of June at Annas Church field the Battalion held a parting parade with worship services in Annas church. For the parade, from Riga showed up Police Commander Pulkv. Knechts, Pltn. Veiss and Pltn. Osis. Showed up also promoted German liaisons officer Police Hptm. Vilke (Wilcke). In the parade participated also 25th Abavas Battalion.
28th of June Liepaja visited Self rule Generaldirektor General O. Dankers. With this arrival, 25th 28th and 268th battalion held a parade, after which General Dankers placed a wreath by Liepajas Bralu Kapu memorial.
Getting along with German liaisons officer Hptm. Vilki was very hard. Pltn. Rucelis had many disagreements with him. With every disagreement Vilke always looked for backup from SS and Police Commander Kurzeme, Ditrich. Pltn. Rucelis was ordered to apologize to Hptm. Vilki for disagreeing but refused so Ditrichs threatened Pltn. Ruceli with removal as Battalion Commander and was replaced by 3rd Company Commander, First Lieutenant A. Salminia and 3rd Company commander was Captain A, Tomas.
3rd of July the battalion received orders to depart for Dnepropetrovska, Ukraine. That evening the battalion headed for Liepajas railroad station. When the Battalion left as a 3 company battalion it consisting of 16 officers, 52 NCO’s and 474 soldiers. Armaments were 470 rifles and 12 automatic-rifles. Soldier uniforms were Latvian Army summer dress and work hats but coats were Russian. The soldiers discarded the coats in Dnepropetrovska. Driving through Jelgava, Sauliem, Kaunu and Vilnu, the battalion on 6th of July evening reached Minsk.
Next morning they left Minsk and headed in Gomelas direction. They had to travel through terrorist occupied forests and marsh region. In the ditches along the tracks laid many locomotives and wagons. Each railroad station was a small stronghold with several fortification buildings and log barriers and barbed wire fences. 9th of July early morning they reached Gomelu, and from there continued by road only by day. 12th of July they arrived at Dnepropetrovska, and in the best part of the city occupied an apartment complex. The trip from Liepaja to Dnepropetrovska took almost 8 days.
14th of July Battalion Commander Pltn. Rucelis showed up with Deputy Head of Dnepropetrovska Police Commander Pulkv. Hofman, who was very friendly to Latvian soldiers. The climate was very hot that summer and also the change in drinking water gave strong dysentery to 90% of the soldiers and several were sent to the hospital.
23rd of July the battalion started training, mainly target practice with rifles and automatic rifles. 30th of July the Battalion received 12 Russian machine guns, 27 automatic rifles and 240 rifles.
5th of August 2nd Company left for Solochovu to guard manganese diggings and 1st Company for Marganecu. 7th of August the Battalion headquarters with 3rd Company headed by train for Krivoj Rogu, where they showed up the second day. From there 3rd Company 12th of August left to guard Kresas electric generating, about 10 km south from Krivoj Rogas. Battalion headquarters 13th of August occupied Krivoj Rogas suburb, Cervonnaja, 3 km east from city center.
September 23 1942 the Battalion was notified to get ready to be transferred to Poland, between Brestu and Kobrinu. The battalion units had already gathered in Krivoj Roga, when arrived new orders to go to the Donecas Basin. The reason was the German failures at Stalingrad.
10th of October the Battalion soldiers gave a ceremonies pledge, followed by a parade. The next day the battalion was entertained by Latvian theater.
The 17th Vidzemes Battalion, whose headquarters showed up in Cervonnaja 9th of October, replaced battalion guard duties, 268th Erglu Battalion started training, particularly attention towards combat training as Company and Battalion scale.
16th of November, the battalion left Cervonnajas Station and headed for the new position. At Verchovcevo Station the troop train stood until 18th of November evening. In a field by the station the battalion held a 18th of November parade.
21st of November morning the troop train arrived at Grisino Station. From there 1st Company headed for Ekonomiceskoju, 2nd Company for Stalino (Doneck) and 3rd Company for Gorlovku. Companies there were expected to do guard duty.
After arriving in Donbasa, the Battalion’s director was German Police Commander in Stalino — Police Pltn. Loze (Lohse), but 3rd Company and 1st Company units were detached and subordinate to Stalaga Commander Major Zerboni. Both these German officers were very favorable to the Latvian soldiers especially Major Zerboni, who abhorred German police, was sharp and intolerant against Battalion German liaisons officer Police Hptm. Vilki.
19th of December the Battalion headquarters shifted to Gorlovku with remainder of 1st Company soldiers. There 28th of December the local broadcast center played the Battalion’s Soldier Choir.
January 3,1943 all Battalion machine gunners were brought together in Gorlovka for training led by First Lieutenant J. Puce.
January the battalion started to fill guard duty around Donbasa different diggings. Greater parts of the guard men were Ukraine help (Hilfwillige), which was subordinate to Latvian unit commander or the respective guard leader. The Latvians managed all guard stations and themselves guarded only the important places.
14th of January 3rd Company commander Captain Kirsonu transferred to Latvian 266E Battalion in Riga. His place was taken by 21st of January promoted First Lieutenant Puci.
Red Army push for Donecas coal basin region in 1943 had intensified, and many Russian tank units made inroads to the German rear. January other side all Russian captives from smaller areas were transferred to a central camp in Gorlovka. The Battalion had many 1st and 2nd step alarms, when all must be dressed and in full armaments. The front with every day was approaching closer, roads were filled with retreating Italian and Rumanian units.
Hptm. Vilke informed his authority that the battalion was completely trained and armed for combat. Battalion Commander Major Zerboni informed that the battalion will not be sent to the front lines, but assigned to guard prisoner transports across Dnepra.
4th of February from Gorlovku left first prisoner column. Guards for this were 2nd Company Lieutenant Balodis with 30 men.
The Battalion soldiers had already started to pack up for transport west for from the front was heard strong artillery fire. Troop train left Gorlovku 21.30 and the same night reached Jasinovataju. 15th February afternoon they reached Kirovogradu. Still didn’t have any news about 2nd Company.
18th of February Battalion 1st and 3rd company was transferred under 466th Landeschutz Battalions command and the next day they did training.
Until 30th March the battalion was divided into 2 groups. Battalion Commander with two half companies waited for 2nd company in Zaporozje, but 2 half companies and Battalion headquarters was in Dnepropetrovska. 3rd of March in Zaporozje showed up 1st Company group half company strength.
8th of March the Battalion Commander was already prepared to proceed with both groups for Dnepnropetrovska, but because news arrived that Captain Gravela and 2nd Company had been located in Orechovas Zujevo region, because of a mix up of orders, the battalion stayed in Zaporozje taking a German Battalions place.
After officers training courses finished, from Riga returned battalion Lieutenants Kruzmetra and Darznieks.
21st of March Captain. Gravelis informed that 2nd Company was located in Gulajpole and was moving for Zaporozju. 28th of March late evening the company reached Zaporozju, but the next day was ordered to proceed for Chortozi.
31st of March by railroad transport the Battalion commander with two half companies headed for Dnepropetrovska, where they occupied locals barracks. 3rd of April also arrived 2nd Company. The battalion soldiers finished guard duties and completed training. At this time the battalion count was 360—400 soldier.
When the Russians started approaching Dnepra, the battalion transferred to Krivoj Rogi, where they were surprised by Russian tank units. The battalion retreated along Dnepr’s winding shore. After this great retreat, the battalion was involved in combat with terrorists in Poland.
From Poland the battalion units returned to Riga progressively 22—26th January 1944 and occupied Abrenes Street barracks. 2nd of February battalion was disbanded and the soldiers divided between 22nd Daugavas Battalion and new formed 2nd Liepaja Police Regiment.
22. DAUGAVAS BATTALION
19th of October 1942 from Warsaw through Stalino (Doneck) Hanzenkovo showed up 22nd Daugavas Battalion. Battalion headquarters with 3rd Company two group occupied Makejevkas and one group in a nearby village, 1st Company two groups in Hanzenkovo, one unit in Bielaja Balka. 2nd Company dispersed east of Hanzenkovo—Stalino.
November month formed Battalions 4th Company from field engineer group, taken from each company by 2 groups.This new formed company occupied north from Stalino by the coal mines. Company commander this time was 1st Company — Captain A. Purvainis, 2nd Company — First Lieutenant Palcmanis, 3rd Company — Captain V. Rubis, 4th Company — First Lieutenant Kaneps and Battalion Adjutants — Lieutenant N. Bisenieks.
This time every company consisted of 10—12 NCO’s and 100—120 soldiers. Sustenance was comparatively good, but received irregularly because supplies were hampered due to the happenings at Stalingrad. Only the canteen was adequately supplied. Clothing was very poor, because after the Battalion was formed for many days nothing was received. January of 1943 finally was delivered some used German uniforms and guard coats. Guarding the prisoner camp, several soldiers were infected with typhoid, died one 3rd Company soldier.
After the German front collapse at Stalingrad the Battalion units assigned gather retreating Italian and Rumanian units, which were wandering a great area. The battalion soldiers in various strength groups were assigned also to evacuate the German 6th Army baggage train.
Time from February 7—15th 1943 the battalion left Stalino region and by road headed for Zaporozju. Basic route was Makejevka—Stalino—Aleksandrovka—Zaporozje. March was about 100 km, and for the units took 7—14 day time, because all roads were much filled. 22nd of February greater part of the battalion soldiers reached the end objective — Zaporozju, except lst Company one group , which for 2 weeks occupied Gulaipoles.
At this time the Russian having eliminated at Stalingrad the German 6th Army, began to attack Rostovai. Breaching the front at Pavlovgradas, Russian cavalry corps reached the Dnepra River. This Russian corps operated as diverted groups from 6—8 tanks and 60—80 mounted soldiers. That spring thaw very fast operated without roads attacked retreating German, Italian and Rumanian troops. 22nd Daugavas Battalion many times came to battle with these Russian units without great losses. Greatest encounter happened 22nd of February 1943 morning about 10 km from Zaporozjes, where fell 6 battalion soldiers. Due to German aviation activity the battalion headquarters and 3rd Company was saved from extermination. After this fight the fallen were buried in Zaporozjes graveyard.
Long marches and constant clashes with Russian assault units strongly decreased Battalions size. Many soldiers on the road went astray, lost connection with the group, many were sick, others again were used by the German command and others headed back for Latvia. When the battalion came to Zaporozje and somewhat organized, every company consisted of only 5—6 NCO’s and 80—90 soldiers
Month of March the battalion was involved in guard duty. Every day guard duty was assigned to one company, remaining company’s completed intensive training. July the battalion was involved in bunker construction around Zaporozjes outskirts. Attitude with German leaders, as also with local inhabitants was very good. In August to the battalion returned Pltn. Gerbers and took up as Battalion Commander. This time every company consisted of only 70—80 NCO’s and soldiers. Soldiers officer also received new uniforms from German Army storage buildings. Also the armaments, except automatic-rifles, were German weapons.
After 10 months of combat in the Ukraine south, 24th of August 1943 the battalion left Zaporozju and through Dnepropetrovska headed back for Poland.
272nd DAUGAVGRIVAS BATTALION
23rd October 1942 at Dnepropetrovska showed up the 272nd Daugavgrivas Battalion, from Warsaw, consisting of one company led by Captain P. Ziedina. Here the battalion filled guard duty and participated in terrorist combat.
February 1943, the battalion was incorporated in the Latvian Legion.