Finlands Winter War 1939-40

[Stellan Bojerud (RIP)]

We now for the first time will see the Finns operating with larger units. Here we find the 4th Army Corps (12th and 13th Divisions) commanded by LtGen Hägglund.

First the situation was very dagerous. The Soviets attacked with four Divisions and the Finns were losing ground in Tolvajärvi (see post above). After the creation of Group Talvela in that direction LtGen Hägglund could consentrate on the enemy advancing north of lake Ladoga.

It is a long story, but I will make it short. Already in mid December 4th Army Corps began "chopping wood" by separating the Soviet columns. It took considerable time to destroy the Soviet pockets of restistance. The complete destruction had not been achieved when the war ended.

Let us just count them - destroyed or routed Soviet Divisions:
168th Division trapped at Kitelä.
18th Division destroyed at Lemetti.
34th Armour Brigade destroyed at Lemetti.

The Finns Captured on 18 February 20 tanks, 30 field guns, 37 AT-guns, 25 trucks, 32 field-kitchens e t c and on 29th February 71 tanks, 12 armoured cars, 24 guns, 68 trucks, 133 MGs e t c. We then have disregarded minor resistence pockets.

Picture:
Only time prevented 4th Finnish Army Corps to totally whipe out Soviet 8th Army.