Volume 3 Chapter 9 (1/2)
Volume 3, Chapter 9
Hitler went on to say, “Today’s meeting is very important. We will be discussing the next steps to be taken on the Western front.”
Then he turned to Himmler and Schirach. “Normally there is no need for you to attend these meetings. However, I wish for you to know how the German army conquers its enemies. May it inspire you also.”
The two people gave a bit of a flattered look and expressed grat.i.tude. Xu Jun after some thought understood the basic idea. Hitler was purposely showing them Reinhardt’s military talent and his loyalty to the cause Allowing for easier communication and to help pave the way for future projects.
Then Hitler spoke to General Jodl: “Jodl, give the report of the front lines.”
Jodl stood up and went to the front of the map. Pointing with a long stick at the various strategic points on the map and started to detail the front’s current situation.
Xu Jun had no intent on listening meaningfully, he had already studied the current battle situation very well. He was now concerned on how Hitler would deal with Rundstedt and Göring's disastrous plan.
Xu Jun then gave a brief wave to one of Hitler’s military adjutants. The adjutant immediately came over and asked what he needed.
Xu Jun whispered softly, “Go over to my adjutant, Hans. Grab my briefcase and bring it to me.”
“Yes, General.” The adjutant nodded his head, opened the door and went out.
Hitler was listening to Jodl’s report seriously and did not pay attention to this exchange. After some time, the officer returned with the briefcase. Xu Jun expressed grat.i.tude and then slid the briefcase beside his feet.
At that time Jodl had finished the report and returned to his seat. Hitler rolled out a map of Europe on the table in front of him and frowned. Then he lifted his head and spoke to Rundstedt, “I've seen your and Manstein’s report. He's currently commanding the offensive, so I called you over instead. Now, tell me your views on the next stage of the war.”
Rundstedt stood up and took out a report from his folder.
“My Fuhrer, from the current battlefield situation, our attack has been smooth and cohesive. Our forces have breached the initial French defensive lines. This is in accordance with our plans to advance to the French coast. In fact, General Guderian and the XIX (19th) Panzer Corps arrived at the English Channel several days ago. Then attacks were commenced on the ports of Boulogne and Calais. We have the majority of the British Expeditionary force and French 1st army completely cut off. It is only a matter of time before the army is eliminated.
However, we are now experiencing a bigger problem. We have been using our valuable Panzer Divisions to advance. During the initial attack, the forces moved very quickly. However, this leads to the fact that our tanks were moving too quickly. Our follow-up forces are having trouble moving at that speed. So now, these armored forces are at risk of a pincer attack. The soldiers of the Panzer Divisions are also very tired, only relying on their loyalty to the Reich to continue fighting. The tanks are also continuing to wear down from the rapid movement, constant repairs are needed.
Because the enemy is backed into a corner, their resistance is much stronger than before. If we continue to throw troops at them then the enemy will surely put up a stubborn resistance. Besides, the terrain is not suitable for tanks. If we rushed in with the tanks then they will have unnecessary losses. Besides, these valuable tanks are needed for the second stage of our battle plan, to fight the main force of the French army. They cannot be allowed to be destroyed so early, it is an unnecessary sacrifice.
I suggest we stop our forward movement. Allow the units to get some rest. Here, we form a defensive encirclement and wait for the infantry to arrive. Defensive positions should be set at these areas to prevent the enemy forces from counter-attacking. The infantry should be pulled to the enemy’s eastern defensive lines. Although it may take some time, the losses when engaging the enemy would be reduced. This is my advice.”
And so, Hitler gave a nod of satisfaction.
Seeing that Hitler gave a nod to Rundstedt’s report, it confirmed that Hitler had long since had the same idea. However, it also gave himself an opportunity. But as he was ready to speak, Hitler unexpectedly continued.
“I agree with Rundstedt’s views. We cannot place our elite Panzer units in unnecessary trouble. The enemy is already trapped, there is no need for their continued advance. I think it would be best for the infantry to complete this task.”