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Kulikovka Sanatorium, Russia*
January 15, 1943*
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To your north 40th Army is continuing its offensive against Italian and Hungarian troops. 
3rd Tank Army is now also making progress. The enemy XXIV Panzerkorps is yielding ground.*
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Rumours of your battalions fortunes at NOVOMARKOVKA are spreading within the ranks of 15th Tank Corps.*
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FROM: HQ 15th Tank Corps*
TIME NUMBER: 43-01-150900*
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ORDERS: Battalion is to link up with friendly infantry attacking in the direction of KULIKOVKA. Our own forces have been checked by German defences near Kulikovka Sanatorium, southeast of KULIKOVKA itself. The infantry commander has requested tank support  youre it. Assume command of the advance if necessary.*
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ENEMY: Elements of XXIV. Panzerkoprs are deployed near KULIKOVKA. We know not what division. Tanks are a possibility. Overall enemy defences are deemed to be weak.*
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OWN FORCES: You will be supporting an infantry battalion of roughly 60% strength. Indirect fire support will be limited to a handful of light mortars.*
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End.*
