Mickiewicz Battalion

Not to be confused with Mickiewicz's Legion.
Mickiewicz Battalion
Active1937-1938
CountryPolish
Allegiance Republican Spain
Branch International Brigades
TypeInfantry battalion
Part ofXIII International Brigade
EngagementsBattle of the Ebro
Commanders
Notable
commanders		Franek Ksiezarczyk

The Mickiewicz Battalion was a volunteer battalion of the International Brigades during the Spanish Civil War. It formed part of the XIII International Brigade from 27 October 1937 until 23 September 1938, when the International Brigades were disbanded.[1] It was named after Adam Mickiewicz (1798–1855), a Polish poet and patriot.

In July 1938 The Battalion took part in the Battle of the Ebro crossing the river and initially advancing quickly attacking and capturing many Nationalist troops at La Venta de Camposines, before moving on to near Gandesa.[2] By September 1938 they were dug in defending a difficult position on the road from Corbera d'Ebre under constant bombardment and machine gun fire, the only respite being at night. They continued to dig trenches and lay barbed wire. After an artillery bombardment, the Battalion continued a heroic defence against tanks and cavalry which saw many of their best men killed, before the order for withdrawal came.[3]

Personnel

See also

References

  1. ^ Clifford, Alexander (2020). Fighting for Spain. Yorkshire: Pen & Sword Military. p. 238. ISBN 978-1-52677-438-5.
  2. ^ a b Tremlett, Giles (2020). The International Brigades. London: Bloomsbury Publishing. pp. 473–474. ISBN 978-1-4088-5398-6.
  3. ^ Tremlett (2020) p.503-504
  4. ^ Tremlett (2020) p.503
  5. ^ Tremlett (2020) p.503


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