THE HEDGEHOG OF PIEPSK: PIEPSK, Central Russia, Nov. 14,1941; Despite a heavy beating, the Soviet army was still holding the field, and in some areas, giving better than they got. however, the German ranks were thinning out as their manpower resources were called upon time and again to fight just one more battle. Very often, an entire section of the line would be held by occupying the main village in that area with remnants of a battle weary company. With winter approaching, possession of these small towns became crucial as they were often the only shelter for miles around. Piepsk was one such village garrisoned by Co. A of the 3rd Rn. 72nd Infantry Regiment. Knowing that the German defenses were sparse, remnants of the Russian 169th Rifle Regiment were set to attack and overwhelm the hardpressed defenders at dawn.

AFTERMATH: The Russians, despite overwhelming numbers, were unable to gain surprise and the first Russian attack was cut down by accurate long range machinegun fire. Rather than regroup, the Russians committed troops piecemeal throughout the day against the town. The Russians were able to eventually gain a small foothold in the town, but were totally at a loss to support it, and after taking nearly 70% casualties, lost heart and faded back into the surrounding countryside.

