Operation "Edelweiss"

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Operation "Edelweiss"
Part of World War II in Albania
Date 1–31 November 1943 Location Dibër, Albania Result German - Ballist victory Partisan retreat from Dibër Neutralization of partisans until January of 1944
Belligerents
German-occupied Albania Balli Kombëtar	LANÇ
Commanders and leaders
Rexhep Mitrovica Mid'hat Frashëri	Mehmet Shehu
Strength
6,000 troops 1,000 troops of Balli Kombëtar	600 partisans of the Dibra group 200 partisans in Peshkopi and Zerqan
Casualties and losses
minimal casualties	50 wounded

Operation "Edelweiss" (German: Aktion „Edelweiß“) was an operation executed by the German command in Albania.

Battle[edit]

German units[edit]

Five infantry battalions from the 297th Division, along with one tank battalion, the 100th Regiment, and the II "Brandenburg" Regiment, were reinforced by artillery and engineer divisions, all of which participated in the operation.^[1]

The mission comprised the formation of two combat groups tasked with advancing from Librazhdi and Struga towards Dibra and Peshkopia. Simultaneously, a battalion from Kicevo was dispatched to Dibra for reconnaissance purposes. Measures were taken to secure key routes such as Dibër - Burrel, Peshkopi - Burrel, and Peshkopi - Kukës. Beyond auxiliary duties, the collaborationist forces were assigned the responsibility of instructing local populations in Dibër and Peshkopi.^[1]

Partisan units[edit]

In the vicinity of Dibra e Madhe, approximately 600 fighters hailing from the Dibra Group, the Çermenika Battalion, and provincial volunteers were stationed. Around 200 additional partisans and volunteers were deployed in Peshkopi and Zerqan. The German forces held a significant numerical advantage, with a ratio of approximately 10 to 1.^[1]

Battle[edit]

Given the circumstances, the Dibra Group Command, forewarned about the impending enemy assault, promptly raised the alert status of their forces and initiated protective measures for the defense of Dibra. The objective wasn't an unconditional defense of the city, but rather the infliction of substantial casualties upon the adversary. The defensive strategy was circular in nature, with key positions in and around the city secured.^[1]

To impede the enemy's advance, certain sections of roads were demolished, and the Spillesë bridge across the Drin River was demolished. In the face of enemy superiority, the tactic of opening fire from defensive positions was employed to delay their progression until nightfall. Particular care was taken to avoid encirclement and secure viable escape routes. The local population played a vital role by assisting with supply, communication, reconnaissance, medical services, and direct engagement in combat.^[1]

Throughout the day, the German forces pressed forward with substantial force and momentum. Eventually, due to their untenable position, the Partisan forces received orders to execute a nocturnal withdrawal. This withdrawal was executed systematically and without incident.^[1]

Aftermath[edit]

While the German forces managed to seize control of Dibra and Peshkopi, their dominion over the entire Dibra province remained incomplete. A month later, in January 1944, the XXI Corps command noted that "small detachments are still engaging in active operations" within the area.^[1]

References[edit]