The final surrender  and beyond – Microsoft Close Combat User Manual

Page 161

Advertising
background image

160

Close

Combat

flag from a second story window of the Reichstag. An hour later, Hitler commits
suicide. At 2250 hours, Soviet flags fly from the Reichstag’s roof.

Negotiations between the Soviets and the Germans begin. They break off in the
middle of the day on May 1; Marshal Chuikov (one of the heroes of Stalingrad) is
exasperated and orders artillery fire to resume. Finally, early on May 2, the
commander of force in Berlin drafts a surrender, which the Soviets accept. The
Red Army ceases firing at 1500 hours. Berlin has fallen.

The Final Surrender

And Beyond

After Hitler’s death and the fall of Berlin, the Third Reich collapses. The Germans
sign an unconditional surrender at Rheims on May 7, but Army Group Center
fights on. Surrounded by the Soviets near Prague, they ignore broadcast appeals to
give up. Marshal Koniev orders a massive artillery barrage, followed by the

German General Jodl

signing surrender

Photostat of German surrender with Jodl's signature

Advertising