320th Rifle Division (Soviet Union)
The 320th Rifle Division was a Soviet Red Army infantry division formed during World War II. It was activated in August 1941 and deactivated in 1945 after participating in major battles on the Eastern Front.
Formation and Early Service
The division began forming on August 10, 1941, in the North Caucasus Military District. Its initial composition included the 1081st, 1083rd, and 1085th Rifle Regiments, the 876th Artillery Regiment, and supporting units. Upon formation, the division was composed primarily of reservists.
The 320th was initially deployed to the Southern Front and saw action in the Donbass region during the autumn and winter of 1941. It was involved in heavy defensive fighting against the advancing German forces.
Notable Engagements
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Battle of Stalingrad: The division participated in the Battle of Stalingrad, playing a role in the defense of the city and the subsequent encirclement and destruction of the German 6th Army. It sustained heavy losses in this brutal urban warfare.
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Liberation of Ukraine: Following the victory at Stalingrad, the 320th participated in the liberation of Ukraine, advancing westward as part of the Soviet counter-offensive.
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Further Campaigns: The division continued to fight on the Eastern Front through 1944 and 1945, participating in offensives in Eastern Europe.
Post-War
The 320th Rifle Division was disbanded shortly after the end of the war in 1945.
Commanders
The division had several commanders throughout its service, including (but not limited to):
- Colonel Semyon Kharlamov
- Colonel I.I. Tsapayev
Honors and Awards
While specific unit awards are not readily available in all sources, the division's participation in key battles likely resulted in individual and collective recognition for bravery and service. Further research is needed for a complete listing of its honors.
Composition
A typical composition of a Soviet Rifle Division during World War II generally included:
- Three Rifle Regiments
- One Artillery Regiment
- Antitank Battalion
- Reconnaissance Company
- Sapper Battalion
- Signals Battalion
- Medical/Sanitation Battalion
- Supply and Transport Units
Note that the specific organization and equipment levels could vary over time depending on availability and battlefield conditions.