SS Polizei Division "Rudolf Anhalt"

FIG05 - SS Polizei Division "Rudolf Anhalt"

SS Polizei Division "Rudolf Anhalt"

Formed in 1939 at Truppenübungsplatz Wandern as the Polizei-Division. On 1941 became under the SS, and was officially taken over by the Waffen-SS on 1942 as the SS-Polizei-Division. On 4.43 began conversion to a motorized division, when Polizei-Panzergrenadier-Regiment 1 and 2 were formed in Cracow 1943, these two regiments were re-designated as SS-Polizei-Panzergrenadier-Division, while the SS-Polizei-Division still remained in Russia under its old designation. Both regiments moved to the Balkans in mid 1943, under Heeresgruppe E. The SS-Polizei-Division finally moved to Saloniki and truly became a Panzergrenadier-Division with the two new regiments. A Kampfgruppe Polizei-Division would, however, remain in Russia and was then united with the rest of the division.

This Division was formed and composed of members of the Ordnungpolizei. The unit was trained at Truppen-Unungsplatz Wandern and completed its training in 1940. The Division was not considered to be an elite SS Division. The Division was initially held in reserve for the opening of the Campaign in France. On 1940 the Division first saw action in the crossing of the Aisne River and Ardennes Canal. Finally, in January, 1942, the Division was given "official" Waffen SS status, and its title was changed to the SS Polizei Division. All of the Divisions sub-units were then renamed as SS such-and-such, now being a part of the Waffen SS itself.

From January to March, 1942, the Division saw action along the Wolchow River and helped in the encirclement and destruction of the 2nd Soviet Assault Army. In January and February, 1943, the Division saw action south of Lake Ladoga during a number of Soviet offensives, with the Division retreating to west of Kolpino where it held.

The Division itself was reformed as the 4th SS Polizei Grenadier Division, and after training and forming, was sent to the Balkans area. Elements of the Division saw action in Greece on anti-partisan duties, and the Division also fought near Belgrade. In January, 1945, the Division was pushed into Slovakia, and from there it was moved North to the Pommerania area where it once again saw action attempting to hold the Soviets back. Soon after, the 4th SS was moved to Danzig where it was trapped by Soviet forces. After dire battle the Division was shipped across the Hela Peninsula and over sea to Swinemude. From there, the Division rested, and then moved to postion itself to surrender to the Americans near Wittenberge-Lenzen.

FIG05 - SS Polizei Division "Rudolf Anhalt"

Details: Each poseable figure is about one foot tall and comes complete with 24 highly detailed accessory pieces including a parade hat with liner, combat hat, gorget, dagger with scabbard, and much more.