60th Infantry Division (mot)

The 60th Infantry Division (mot) (60. Infanterie-Division (mot.)) was originally the 60th Infantry Division formed at Danzig in August 1939 and embodying the Danzig Heimwehr. As such took part in the attack on the Hela peninsula in September 1939 and in the French campaign. In the late summer of 1940 it provided a nucleus for the formation of the 60th Motorized Division, which fought in Yugoslavia in April 1941. Subsequently in the southern sector in Russia. Virtually destroyed at Stalingrad.

Commanders

Generalleutnant Otto Kohlermann, from 15th May 1942 to November 1942

Generalleutnant Otto Kohlermann commanded the 60th Motorized Infantry Division during World War II, showcasing strategic leadership. He participated in key campaigns, including the Battle of Stalingrad, where his division suffered heavy losses. Kohlermann later commanded the Panzergrenadier Division Feldherrnhalle, earning the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his military achievements.

Generalmajor Hans-Adolf von Arenstorff, from November 1942 to 1943

Generalmajor Hans-Adolf von Arenstorff commanded the 60th Motorized Infantry Division during World War II, showcasing strategic leadership. Captured at Stalingrad, he was held as a Soviet prisoner until his death in captivity in 1952. Arenstorff opposed the Nazi regime, joining the National Committee for a Free Germany while in captivity.

Units

160 Panzer Battalion
92 Infantry Regiment (mot)
120 Infantry Regiment (mot)
160 Motorcycle Reconnaissance Battalion (mot)
160 Artillery Regiment (mot)
160 Pionier Battalion (mot)
160 Anti-Tank Battalion (mot)
160 Signal Battalion (mot)

Auxiliary unit number 160
Home Station Danzig (Wkr. XX)

Locations

History

The 60th Infantry Division (mot) was formed in 1940, specializing in motorized infantry operations during World War II. Initially deployed to the Eastern Front, it participated in Operation Barbarossa, advancing through Ukraine and engaging in battles like Rostov.

The division played a significant role in the Battle of Stalingrad, enduring relentless Soviet attacks and harsh conditions. Encircled during Operation Uranus, it was destroyed in January 1943 when the 6th Army surrendered. Reformed later as the Panzergrenadier Division Feldherrnhalle, it continued fighting until its eventual surrender in 1945, reflecting the challenges faced by German motorized divisions throughout the war.