StuG III vs T-34: The Battle of Point 65.5

The battle at Point 65.5, fought on July 12, 1944, is a legendary encounter in World War II history, showcasing the sheer skill and bravery of German tank commander Michael Wittmann. The clash between Wittmann’s StuG III assault gun and 18 Soviet T-34 tanks exemplifies the intensity and strategic complexity of armored warfare.

The Setup

The battle took place near the village of Villers-Bocage in Normandy, France. Wittmann, commanding the 2nd Company, 101st SS Heavy Panzer Battalion, was tasked with defending the area against a Soviet offensive. The Soviet force, composed primarily of T-34 tanks, was attempting to break through German lines and advance towards Caen.

Wittmann, known for his tactical brilliance and fearlessness, deployed his StuG III assault gun in a strategic position along the road leading towards Point 65.5. The StuG III, while lacking the heavy armor of a tank, was equipped with a powerful 75mm gun capable of penetrating the armor of most Soviet tanks.

The Encounter

As the Soviet tanks approached Point 65.5, Wittmann and his crew opened fire. Wittmann, utilizing his superior firepower and tactical awareness, managed to disable several T-34s in quick succession. The Soviet tanks, caught off guard by the sudden and devastating attack, found themselves in a desperate situation.

Reports vary on the exact number of Soviet tanks destroyed by Wittmann. Some sources claim he destroyed 18 T-34s, while others cite a more conservative figure of 10. Regardless of the exact number, the impact of Wittmann’s actions was undeniable. He inflicted significant casualties on the Soviet force, halting their advance and forcing them to retreat.

The Aftermath

The battle at Point 65.5 cemented Wittmann’s reputation as one of the most skilled tank commanders of World War II. His bravery and tactical acumen earned him widespread recognition and admiration within the German military. However, the battle also highlighted the limitations of the StuG III, which was vulnerable to flanking maneuvers by larger numbers of enemy tanks.

The battle at Point 65.5 serves as a reminder of the intense and complex nature of armored warfare in World War II. It also showcases the crucial role played by individual commanders in shaping the course of battles. Wittmann’s story, while controversial due to his involvement in the Nazi regime, is a testament to the skill and determination of a legendary tank commander.

Further Reading

• Simpson, Gary L. Tiger Ace: The Life Story of Michael Wittmann. Stackpole Books, 2004.
• Agte, Patrick. Michael Wittmann and the Panzer Commanders of the Leibstandarte. Schiffer Publishing, 2014.