The weight of the German offensive forced the 5th Guards Tank Corps to assume a defensive posture. The Soviets, however, had not spent the long interlude following the winter campaign idly. Continuous defensive lines were established with extensive field fortifications and fall back positions. At 11:30 on July 6th, after a ninety minute artillery barrage, the Germans launched a powerful thrust aimed at Yalkovo. Dug in on the left flank of 1st Tank Army, the 5th Guards Tank Corps held the high ground as the Germans attacked.
Objectives: Your company must hold the high ground above our defensive positions. Your platoon is in reserve on the left flank of the company line. Move your platoon forward and attempt to enfilade the enemy's right flank. A battery of SU-122 Mechanized Guns are located downslope in support. Even if the defensive line is destroyed, our comrade's sacrifice will not have been in vain if we stop this thrust. The enemy strength in our sector is estimated to consist of two to three formations, each formation of company strength.
