Headquarters of the 6th Army

Rostov-on-Don

8 January 1943

Darling Sophia,

Your letter warmed my heart more than all the fuel we dream of!

You must promise me not to feel guilty about the fact that I am here on the front line and you are enjoying comforts in Berlin. That you are safe and cared for is a source of great joy to me, one of the few things that sustains me at this difficult time.

I wish I was able to say otherwise, but life here is very hard and the military situation does not improve – in fact, it gets worse. The Soviets launched a major attack on our armies in November and we have found it hard to recover. Now we are being encircled and our thoughts are of survival rather than the capture of Stalingrad.

If you wonder why I am able to be so frank with you it is because I am sending this letter by hand with Konrad, whom I trust implicitly. Poor Konrad’s injuries are very bad and he is no longer resisting his repatriation to the Fatherland. I think it would be prudent if you burnt this letter once you have read it.

I am sorry to sound so miserable, but I have to be honest with you. However, my belief in the ideals of national socialism and my absolute conviction in Ultimate Victory are as strong and resolute as ever!

Whatever you may hear about the outcome of the Stalingrad campaign, do not lose heart. One setback will not prevent us winning the war. The blame for the situation we find ourselves in must not be placed on the Führer! If this campaign had been handled by the SS, I have no doubt we’d have been in control of Stalingrad by now. However, one always doubts the ability and the loyalty of the Wehrmacht. Colonel General Paulus is proving to be an inept commander. If he is replaced, there is still hope.

I would be surprised if any Jews (or indeed anyone else) remain in Stalingrad by the time we capture the wretched place, but if they do, rest assured that I will personally make sure we dispatch them in the usual manner!

I know you are a good and loyal National Socialist, and your typically selfless act in going to Greifswald to help those less fortunate than yourself is a wonderful inspiration and comfort to me. Be assured your work there will be a contribution to victory and it is something I heartily approve of!

There is a very large barracks in Greifswald and I do know that a few months ago Oberführer Hausser commanded the SS detachment there. Should you ever need his help, just mention my name!

I have to go now. My adjutant tells me there’s a staff meeting I have to attend. When will they learn that meetings don’t win wars!

With my eternal love,

Heil Hitler!

Your devoted husband,

Karl-Heinrich

Chapter 16