JANUARY 30, 1942

The Soviets have launched a winter offensive from Rostov all the way north almost as far as Leningrad. In your sector, the 3rd and 4th Shock Armies are attacking towards Kholm (north of Velikiye Luki) but the Velikiye Luki area will soon come under attack from the left flank of the 3rd Shock Army. You are ordered to the railway line from Velikiye Luki to Novosokolniki (west of Velikye Luki), where you are to support the 83rd Infantry Division's defense of the area. A Russian breakthrough could result in Velikye Luki being surrounded. Russian troops and tanks are already infiltrating the area and should be stopped.

