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Novomarkovka, Russia*
January 14, 1943*
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Voronezh Front has opened the offensive against Ostrogozhsk-Rossosh. 
40th Army is attacking to the north against the Italians. 
Our own 3rd Tank Army has breached the front of the weak German XXIV Panzer Corps. Your battalion has been pushed forward to exploit the breach. German strongpoints are established in the enemy hinterland. These must ruthlessly be crushed. Spare no effort.*
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FROM: HQ 15th Tank Corps*
TIME NUMBER: 43-01-131200*
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ORDERS: Battalion is to secure NOVOMARKOVA village and surroundings. Open roads leading west.*
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ENEMY: Enemy forces made up of elements of XXIV Panzerkorps, 387. Infantry Division. No enemy tanks have been observed in the area of operations.*
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End.*
