greatmilitarybattles: THE BERLIN ZOO FLAK TOWERS:Constructed in…

greatmilitarybattles:

THE BERLIN ZOO FLAK TOWERS:
Constructed in 1941 The  zoo flak towers walls were 2.5 meters thick and the roof was 1.5 meters. Its primary role was as a gun platform to protect the government building district of Berlin.

Along with numerous deadly 88mm anti aircraft guns, the facility’s main armament were four twin mounted 12.8 cm FlaK 40’s. The guns were loaded electrically with the ammunition fed into hoppers.

The complex itself was so well stocked with supplies and ammunition that when Soviet forces entered Berlin in 1945, the military garrison to a man believed that if the city fell, they could hold out for at least a year if need be.

As the Russians advanced inexorably towards the center of Berlin, The tower’s anti aircraft guns completely obliterated approaching Soviet armor, providing much needed support to the 10,000 German defenders which had retreated to within in the Government district.

Both towers resisted all attempts to destroy them by air and ground attack. The Soviets even used their largest artillery pieces, 203 mm howitzers firing at near point blank range but the tower walls would not crumble.

On April 30th, the tower commander, Colonel Haller arranged the surrender of the troops inside. He promised to capitulate at midnight and the Soviets agreed.

However this was just a ruse to allow the 500 strong  garrison to make a breakout attempt through the Soviet lines once the Russians had let down there guard.

Shortly before midnight they made their move catching the enemy unawares with most succeding in escaping the city.