The 198th Rifle Division was an infantry division of the Soviet Union’s Red Army, which played a significant role during World War II. Its history is marked by various engagements and contributions to the Soviet war effort against Nazi Germany.
Formation and Early History[]
The 198th Rifle Division was initially formed as the 198th Motorized Division on March 11, 1941, as part of the Soviet Union’s prewar buildup of mechanized forces. It was based in the Leningrad Military District and was part of the 10th Mechanized Corps. However, with the onset of Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union, the division was reorganized into a rifle division on September 17, 1941.
World War II Engagements[]
The division saw extensive action during World War II, participating in several key battles on the Eastern Front. One of its early engagements was during the Tikhvin Offensive in December 1941. The 198th Rifle Division was part of the 54th Army and played a crucial role in driving back elements of Army Group North to the Volkhov River.
Throughout 1942, the division took part in several offensives aimed at relieving the Siege of Leningrad. These efforts were marked by heavy losses, but the division’s persistence was vital in maintaining pressure on the German forces. In 1943, the division was primarily involved in line-holding duties near the Volkhov River, an area where German forces were on the defensive.
In early 1944, the division was brought back to full strength and participated in the Leningrad–Novgorod Offensive, which successfully broke the siege and pushed German forces away from Leningrad. The 198th Rifle Division continued to advance through the Baltic States, contributing to the capture of Riga and remaining in western Latvia for the duration of the war.
Post-War Period[]
After World War II, the 198th Rifle Division continued to serve in the Soviet military. It was stationed in western Siberia and underwent several reorganizations. In 1955, the division was redesignated as the 23rd Rifle Division.
Legacy[]
The legacy of the 198th Rifle Division is one of resilience and determination. Despite not receiving any battle honors or decorations, the division’s contributions to key battles such as the Tikhvin Offensive and the Leningrad–Novgorod Offensive were instrumental in the Soviet Union’s eventual victory over Nazi Germany. The division’s history is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the Soviet soldiers who served in its ranks.