7th Panzer Division (Germany)

The 7th Panzer Division was a German armored formation which participated in the Battle of France. General Erwin Rommel commanded the division, which was nicknamed the "Ghost Division" because of its speed and independent movement, which even the German High Command had difficulty following.

The 7th Panzer Division under Rommel

After the successful completion of the invasion of Poland, Hitler allowed Erwin Rommel to choose whatever unit he would like to command. Although Rommel had no practical experience in tank warfare, he asked for a Panzer division and on 15 February 1940 he received command of the 7th Panzer Division. In preparation of the invasion of the low countries, the 7th Panzer Division became part of the 15th Panzer Corps under the command of General Hoth.

Timeline - 7th Panzer Division in Belgium and France

* 12 May 1940 - 7th Panzer Division reaches Dinant.
* 13 May 1940 - Crosses River Meuse after heavy fighting.
* 15 May 1940 - Reaches Philippeville and continues Westward passing Avesnes and Le Cateau.
* 21 May 1940 - Reaches Arras where counter attacked by 2 British Tank Regiments. British tank advance stopped by feared Flak 88 "Tank Killers".
* 5 June 1940 - Positioned near Abbeville.
* 8 June 1940 - Reaches outskirts of Rouen.
* 10 June 1940 - Reaches English Channel West of Dieppe.
* 17 June 1940 - Reaches Southern outskirts of Cherbourg.
* 19 June 1940 - Garrison of Cherbourg surrenders to Rommel.
* 25 June 1940 - Fighting ends for 7th Panzer Division in France.

"Ghost/Phantom Division"

The 7th Panzer Division moved with great speed through France and covered vast distance. During the Battle of France, the 7th Panzer Division earned the name of the "Gespensterdivision" (German:"Ghost/Phantom Division") because of this speed and because nobody seemed to know where it was, not even the German High Command. Rommel had a "lead from the front" attitude and would sometimes cut communications with High Command if wished not to be disturbed. His behavior showed confidence in the blitzkrieg concept; his success and favor with Hitler would prevent repercussions from his insubordination to the High Command. Nevertheless, Rommel was criticized by staff for being difficult to contact and locate. Rommel described the French Campaign in his letters to his wife as "a lightning Tour de France".

Popular Culture

Sabaton has a song called Ghost Division on their The Art of War album, released in 2008. It's lyrics refer to the 7th Panzer Division

Sources

* http://www.achtungpanzer.com/gen1.htm (Achtung Panzer)
* http://members.aol.com/kmitch87/rommel.htm