297th Infantry Division

Sep 14, 2012

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297th Infantry Division

The 297th Infantry Division (297. Infanterie-Division) was formed in March/April 1940 from newly trained Austrian personnel. Not identified in action prior to the Russian campaign where it operated in the southern sector from July 1941. Virtually destroyed at Stalingrad.

Commanders

General der Artillerie Max Pfeffer, from 5th April 1940 to 1943

General der Artillerie Max Pfeffer, from 5 April 1940 to 1943

General der Artillerie Max Pfeffer commanded the 297th Infantry Division during World War II, showcasing strategic leadership. He participated in key campaigns, including Operation Barbarossa and the Battle of Stalingrad. Captured during Stalingrad’s surrender, Pfeffer was held as a Soviet prisoner, where he died in captivity in 1955.

Units

522 Infantry Regiment
523 Infantry Regiment
524 Infantry Regiment
297 Reconnaissance Battalion
297 Artillery Regiment
297 Pionier Battalion
297 Anti-Tank Battalion
297 Signal Battalion

Auxiliary unit number 297
Home Station Wein (Wkr. XVII)

Locations

History

The 297th Infantry Division was a German Army unit formed in 1940, participating in key campaigns during World War II. Initially advancing through Ukraine in Operation Barbarossa, it captured strategic locations like Kiev and Rostov. As part of the 6th Army, the division played a major role in the Eastern Front, including the Battle of Stalingrad.

At Stalingrad, the division faced relentless Soviet attacks, extreme weather, and severe supply shortages. Encircled during Operation Uranus, the division was destroyed in January 1943 when the 6th Army surrendered. This marked a pivotal moment, reflecting the turning tide of the war.