| Page Created |
| July 14th, 2024 |
| Last Updated |
| July 14th, 2024 |
| Germany |
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| Additional Information |
| Unit Order of Battle Commanders Operations Equipment Multimedia Sources Biographies |
| Operations |
| Eastern Europe |
| August 24th, 1944 – September 1st, 1944 |
| Brandenburg Relief of Bucharest |
| Brandenburgers |
| In August 1944, an operation involving two companies from Fallschirmjäger-Battalion Brandenburg and two companies from Brandenburg’s 3rd Regiment aims to execute the “Relief of Bucharest” in Romania. The primary objective is to rescue two generals and their troops surrounded by pro-Soviet Romanian forces in the city. On August 24th, 1944, the operation begins with Brandenburg Fallschirmjäger capturing Bucharest’s Otopeni Airport around midday. They hold the airport until 19:00, allowing additional soldiers to arrive by Me 323 Gigant aircraft. By 21:00, the airport and encircled German Headquarters are under German control. Negotiations with some Romanian factions still loyal to the Germans result in assurances of safe passage to the Yugoslav border for German forces in and around Bucharest. On September 1st, 1944, the cooperation unravels as the departing German column, guarded by Brandenburg forces, is betrayed by the Romanians and handed over to the Soviets. Only a few, if any, Brandenburg soldiers survive Soviet captivity. The operation’s outcome significantly reduces the strength of Fallschirmjäger-Battalion Brandenburg, cutting its Order of Battle by half. |