Why Could Not the Volkssturm Save Nazi Germany?

The Volkssturm, often portrayed as a last-ditch effort by the Nazi regime to defend Germany, was far from an effective force. Comprised primarily of elderly men and teenagers, these troops were ill-equipped and poorly trained, making it nearly impossible for them to make a significant impact in crucial battles such as the defense of Berlin.

Training and Composition

Contrary to common expectations, the Volkssturm was not a collection of seasoned elites, but rather a ragtag group of individuals from various walks of life, including many who were past their prime physically. The term 'geriatrics' aptly describes these soldiers, who received just four days of rudimentary training.

These poorly trained volunteers had to make do with whatever weapons were available, often including outdated rifles with questionable accuracy. Hits on targets, such as a 'barn door,' were far from guaranteed with these firearms. In some instances, the Volkssturm even relied on captured foreign weaponry, an indication of the desperate state of the German military.

The lack of proper uniforms and markings was another significant issue. Wearing bright clothing was avoided to prevent being a target, but the overall appearance of the Volkssturm was one of disarray. The image of these 'German geriatrics' marching through German towns and cities would have undoubtedly dampened the morale of the German public.

Defending Berlin

While the defense of Berlin in 1945 was a formidable challenge, it was even more challenging for the Volkssturm to make a difference. The city was defended by approximately eighty thousand men, including the Hitler Youth, who were predominantly ages twelve to seventeen. This makeshift defense faced nearly a million Soviet soldiers and any remaining Wehrmacht forces.

In the final days of the war, over two million shells rained down on the city of Berlin. This massive bombardment left the Volkssturm struggling to hold ground. Their lack of training, low morale, and the sheer number of Soviet troops made them a decidedly ineffective force.

Perceptions and Reality

While some Volkssturm members, such as veterans of World War I, contributed valuable military experience, the vast majority of the troops were barely trained. At best, they could aim and fire a Panzerfaust, a weapon utilized in relatively small numbers. The scarcity of other arms further diminished their effectiveness under fire.

General Weidling, the commander of the Berlin defense, expressed the reality of the situation to Joseph Goebbels. He stated that the Volkssturm was being slaughtered and were of zero military value. Goebbels, in his characteristic zealotry, emphasized the importance of their will to fight, even if it meant losing. However, this was a hollow reassurance, given the hopeless situation the Volkssturm faced.

Outcomes and Fates

Ultimately, the lack of training, equipment, and unit cohesion meant that the Volkssturm could not have saved Nazi Germany. They were largely killed in battle by battle-hardened Soviet soldiers, while others were executed by the SS when they tried to abandon their posts out of fear. This final chapter in the Volkssturm's history serves as a poignant reminder of the folly and ultimate failure of the Nazi regime during World War II.