Re: [WW] Combat Branch Question

["Peter Varney" <p-varney@ux1.cso.uiuc.edu>]

World War II on the eastern front had large amounts of Cavalry.  The
Russians had over 80 (yes 80) Cavalry divisions deployed in Jan 1942!  These
units were used throughout the war as exploitation units.  Once a breach was
made in the line, the cavalry would accompany and follow the armored units.
Over the large, mostly roadless, expanses in the east horses provided
operational mobility that did not require the logistical support mechanized
formations required.  The Italian army made one of the last sword swinging
brigade-sized cavalry charges in history on the eastern front.

It is correct that almost every nationality engaged on the eastern front
employed cavalry divisions and brigades.  The German army was also greatly
dependant upon horses for transportation in all but true tank and mech
units.

World War II was very much a horse and fodder war, contrary to general
opinion.

Pete
----- Original Message -----
From: Lee Holstein <stefan_basarab@hotmail.com>
To: <weirdwars@gamerz.net>
Sent: Tuesday, June 26, 2001 10:06 PM
Subject: Re: [WW] Combat Branch Question


> >I think I know a little about most of the combat branches on the poster,
> >but the cavalry? Is that with horses?
>
>
> Depends,for most Aliied countries,no.Russia had true Cavalry,as well as
> Cossacks.
>
> However the Germans,Italians,and their Allies,had true Cavalry,with
> Horses.The Waffen-SS,also had Divisions of Cavalry.
>
> Lee Holstein
>
>
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