In April 1943, Panzer-Versuchs-Ersatz-Abteilung (Funklenk) 300 (300th. Armored Experimental & Replacement Battalion [Radio Steering]) created 1.schwere Panzer-Kompanie (Funklenk). Units designated as Funklenk, in addition to regular tanks, were equipped with Schwerer Ladungsträger (Heavy Explosive Carrier) Borgward B IV remote-controlled demolition vehicles. In August 1943, the unit would be redesignated as Panzer-Kompanie (Funklenk) 316. By September 1943, the unit was attached to Panzer-Lehr-Regiment 190 for training. On February 19, 1944, the unit was to be equipped with Tiger II tanks. In the meantime, unit crews trained in Tiger I tanks. By April 1944, the unit had five Tiger II tanks and three refurbished Tiger I tanks on strength. Given that the Panzer-Lehr Division elected to not equip one of its Funklenk companies with tanks, it instead equipped it with assault guns and transferred the tanks off their books and onto the books of Panzer-Kompanie (Funklenk) 316.
On August 13, 1944, the unit was deployed to Châteaudun, equipped with only the five Tiger II tanks of which Tank “11” was one. The tanks were situated around the city, overlooking strategic points in which it was felt the U.S. 3rd. Armored Division would approach. Tank “11” was positioned along the Place de Mail (now Promenade du Mail), observing north out over the Loire River. On August 15, advance elements of the 3rd. Armored Cavalry Division were engaged by Tank “12” near the junction of Routes N10 and N824. One Jeep and one M8 armored car were destroyed and their crews captured by supporting German infantry. Tank “12” withdrew into the city along Rue de Varize. The following day, U.S. artillery fired on Tank “13” which had been spotted but to no effect. Tank “12” again battled U.S. forces and halted their advance. However, it was clear that the U.S. forces would not be halted for long and so the unit began to withdraw on August 17 under the cover of darkness. Tank “12” and Tank “13” were left behind with Tank “12” being set on fire. Tank “02”, Tank “10”, and Tank “11” moved back to Boulevard Kellerman where Tank “11” broke down and was abandoned.
The remaining tanks moved east along Route N155 into Varize when Tank “10” broke down. It was towed for a short distance by Tank “02” before being scuttled by its crew. The last tank made for Janville but mechanical failure caused the tank to veer sharply and run over a tree before stopping. It was abandoned on August 18, 1944 and so ended the brief history of the Tiger II tanks of Panzer-Kompanie (Funklenk) 316.
No comments:
Post a Comment