305th Infantry Division

The 305th Infantry Division (305. Infanterie-Division) formed late in 1940. In western France from the end of 1941 until the beginning of May 1942, when it left for the Russian front, southern sector. Virtually destroyed at Stalingrad.

Commanders

Generalleutnant Kurt Pflugradt, 15th December 1940 to 12th April 1942

Generalleutnant Kurt Pflugradt, a German officer, commanded the 305th Infantry Division during World War II. Known for his leadership, he participated in key Eastern Front operations. Later, he held administrative roles, including overseeing prisoner-of-war affairs. Pflugradt was captured in 1945 and released in 1947, living until his death in 1973.

Generalleutnant Kurt Oppenländer, from 12th April 1942 to 1st Nov 1942

Generalleutnant Kurt Oppenländer, from 12th April 1942 to 1st November 1942

Generalleutnant Kurt Oppenländer, a German officer, commanded the 305th Infantry Division during World War II. Known for his leadership, he received the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross in 1942. Oppenländer later commanded the 198th Infantry Division, contributing to German military efforts, before dying in American custody in 1947.

Generalleutnant Bernhard Steinmetz, from 1st November 1942 to 31st January 1943

Generalleutnant Bernhard Steinmetz, a German officer, commanded the 94th Infantry Division during World War II. Known for his leadership, he defended positions along the Garigliano River in Italy. Steinmetz’s division faced relentless Allied offensives, showcasing resilience. Captured in 1945, he was later released, living until his death in 1971.

Units

576 Infantry Regiment
577 Infantry Regiment
578 Infantry Regiment
305 Reconnaissance Battalion
305 Artillery Regiment
305 Pionier Battalion
305 Anti-Tank Battalion
305 Signal Battalion

Auxiliary unit number 305
Home Station Wein (Wkr. V)

Locations

History

The 305th Infantry Division, formed in December 1940, was part of the 13th wave of German mobilizations. Initially stationed in France, it was later deployed to the Eastern Front, participating in the Second Battle of Kharkov and the Battle of Stalingrad. Under Generalleutnant Kurt Oppenländer’s command, the division faced relentless Soviet offensives and was destroyed in the Stalingrad encirclement in February 1943.

Reformed in 1943, the division served in Italy, engaging in defensive battles along the Volturno Line and at Monte Cassino. It continued fighting until April 1945, surrendering to U.S. forces near Trento, marking its end.