76th Infantry Division

Sep 14, 2012

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76th Infantry Division

The 76th Infantry Division (76. Infanterie-Division) was a reserve division formed on mobilization. Prussian personnel. Fought well in France. Engaged in Russia in the southern sector from the beginning of the campaign. Virtually destroyed at Stalingrad.

Commanders

Generalleutnant Carl Rodenburg, from 26th January 1942 to 31st January 1943

Generalleutnant Carl Rodenburg commanded the 76th Infantry Division during World War II, showcasing strategic leadership on the Eastern Front. Rodenburg participated in key campaigns, including the Battle of Stalingrad, where he was captured by Soviet forces. Rodenburg was held as a prisoner until his release in 1955, marking his resilience.

Units

178 Infantry Regiment
203 Infantry Regiment
230 Infantry Regiment
176 Reconnaissance Battalion
176 Artillery Regiment
176 Pionier Battalion
176 Anti-Tank Battalion
176 Signal Battalion

Auxiliary unit number 176
Home Station Berlin (Wkr. III)

Locations

History

The 76th Infantry Division formed in 1939 and participated in key campaigns during World War II. Initially deployed to the Eastern Front, it fought in Operation Barbarossa, advancing through Ukraine and engaging in battles like Odessa.

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