Brandenburg Weserübung 1940

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HolgerDanske
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Location: Denmark

Brandenburg Weserübung 1940

#1

Post by HolgerDanske » 01 Nov 2002, 11:52

I have had difficulties in finding details on the involvement of Brandenburg troops in Weserübung and more specifically in the operations in Denmark.

One source on the Internet - Brandenburg Home Page
http://www.forces70.freeserve.co.uk/Bra ... 20PAGE.htm gives little detail and describes the unit as taking part in the Grossner Belt bridge action, which also correctly did not exist then.

I believe that it is mistake from either translation or similar along the historical research path and that they took part in the taking of the STORESTROEMSBROEN (could litterally be translated into "Grossner Belt" without refering to the Great Belt between Funen and Zealand) connecting South of Zealand with the island of Falster). This bridge and the fort "Madsnedoefortet" was taken in the early morning by German paratroopers (4 company/1 Battalion) - and probably Brandenburg troops.

Secondly, at Padborg at the border to Germany three Danish border guards ("Graensegendarmer") were killed in a firefight with civilian clad Germans in the early morning of the 9 April. It was believed to be a Brandenburg operation.

Best regards

HolgerDanske

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Christoph Awender
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#2

Post by Christoph Awender » 01 Nov 2002, 15:53

Hello!

Already in the night before the invasion of denmark Brandenburger crossed the danish border in civilian clothes from Nordschleswig - This operation "Sanssouci" was commanded by Feldwebel Sorgenfrey. They had objectives like railway installations at Padborg and near station Tinglev. Communication lines between Gedser and Nykoebing. All objectives were cleared/taken without enemy contact partially under the eyes of the danish people.

Christoph


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HolgerDanske
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Location: Denmark

#3

Post by HolgerDanske » 01 Nov 2002, 16:34

Hello Christoph,

Thanks!

This very interesting information on the operation.

There must be something omitted in the source you have since it is a well-known fact here in Denmark that three border guards were killed in a firefight with the Brandenburg at a viaduct in Padborg in the early morning of the 9 April 1940. There is a memorial stone at the spot today.

Do you have more information on Operation "sanssouci" and sources?

HolgerDanske
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