Seelow Heights: Start of the assault on Berlin: April 16-19, 1945

The Soviet Army was like a coiled spring on the East side of the Oder River.  Early on the morning of April 16th, 1945, the Soviet artillery opened a massive  barrage on the German defensive line located on the Seelow Heights that overlooked the West side of the Oder River.  The German commanders pulled their forces back from the front line knowing that the Soviets usually opened their assaults with massed artillery.  After the barrage, the German forces moved back to the line to meet the Russian infantry and tanks crossing the Oder River.  The Russians suffered significant losses in both men and tanks.  The soft river bottom land along the Oder stopped their progress on the first day.  Eventually, the much superior Russian forces broke thru the German defenses and had an open road to Berlin.  For those individuals desiring  a great deal more information, I highly recommend the book by Antony Beevor titled The Fall of Berlin 1945  published in 2002.

For those visiting Berlin,  it is easy to make a day trip to the village of Seelow.  Train RB26 leaves from the Lichtenberg Bhf on a regular basis.  The train stops at a station just outside of Seelow.  A regional bus meets all train arrivals and departures  and takes passengers to and from the Center of Seelow.  From there, it is a short walk to a Museum built by the Soviets to commemorate their victory.  This is a day trip worth taking.   Check current travel guides for accommodations  if a longer stay is desired.  The following are personal pictures taken during my visit:

Katyusha Rocket Launcher

 T-34 Russian Tank

  Looking East from Seelow Heights to the Oder River

There is more to see at the museum including a cemetery holding the remains of Soviet Soldiers.  The personnel at the museum, upon request, can show a film in English.