7. GENERAL NYE states "There was a general feeling of confidence in MOSCOW and morale of the army was high. MARSHAL SHAPODHNIKOV (CGS) appeared to be clear headed, capable staff officer with all the qualities of a commander whereas GENERALS TIMOSHENKO and VOROSHILOV although they had great drive and energy did not repeat not impress him as having much intellect or general ability. STALIN'S confidence struck a more sober note and in private conversation he stated that Russia's strength would be so improved that he thought it impossible that war might be over by autumn 1942. GENERAL NYE felt that the Russians were inclined to over estimate not so much their resources as their military skill vis-a-vis the Germans and that they are only likely to obtain striking successes offensively if the morale of the German army cracks. Following is a summary of GENERAL MASON MACFARLANE's report on his visit to 16 th Division of 5th Army on the MOZHAISK sector 26th to 28 th January. General Situation- 5th Army attacking on 37 mile front astride MOSCOW SMOLESK Road 6 miles east of GZATSK. Considerable resistance especially in centre where Germans hold positions in considerable depth which they clearly intended holding. 5th Army apparently intend to maintain pressure on centre while right wing conforms to southerly movement by next army on right. Climatic Conditions- Temperature minus 40 degrees Farenheit and snow 2 feet 6 inches in open country and from 3 to 5 feet in forests. Medium and heavy tanks can get across country slowly and with difficulty. Calvary, Artillery and Infantry largely confined to proximity of roads. German Defensive Tactics- Germans hold towns and villages linke up by small defended localities. In retirement Germans empoly tanks and anti-tank guns on all roads leading to their positions. Before withdrawing everything in scorched. On front of 5th Army are five infantry and one Panzer divisions, latter's tanks being distributed among all divisions. Russian Offensive Tactics- Consist chiefly of infiltration of Infantry and Ski Troops. Latter work round defended localities and pin down garison while infantry attack. Russians do lot of night fighting at which they excel. Russian Artillery was deployed in depth along main road. Air- German activity on this front almost negligible while Russians showed considerable activity. Russian Commissariat- Troops had not blankets but their clothing provided adequate protection. All troops wear felt not leather boots. Endeavors made always to provide two hot meals a day also have haversack ration. Miscellaneous- All German light tanks have been withdrawn. Prisoners interrogated by GENERAL MACFARLANE were ill-clad and depressed. GENERAL MACFARLANE much impressed by senior Commanders and Commissars, also by group of partisans he met. |