Die Eiserne Faust

The 17th SS Panzer Grenadier Division "Götz von Berlichingen," established by order on October 3, 1943, benefited from a thorough training period before entering the defensive battle against the Allied invasion in June 1944. During its 17 months of existence, it primarily fought against US forces until its soldiers had to embark on the bitter path to captivity in May 1945. This chronicle documents the division's operational history day by day. Numerous photos testify to the extraordinary intensity of the battles, while map sketches complement the narrative. Selected orders, the division's structure, lists of its commanders, as well as its strength and an honor roll complete the presentation.