581st Naval Rifle Battalion

581st Naval Rifle Battalion

581 Marine-SchÃ¼tzen-Bataillon - MSB581

History

Formed during German retreat from Dalmatia around 20 October 1944 from parts of the 540th Naval Artillery Battalion together with 582nd Naval Rifle Battalions.

Battalion was suppose to have three companies each with 120-150 soldiers, also Naval Demolition Platoon was suppose to join it once it completed its work in Zadar harbor. Additionally it was to be joined by platoon from Naval Motorized Company and take over all artillery from disbanded batteries with 20mm guns modified to allow transport with draft animals and cars requisitioned from local population.

Together with 583rd Battalion transferred to DrniÅ¡ on 29/30 October were they took defensive positions and placed under the command of the 264th Division.

Took over survivor of the 582nd Battalion as 4th Company.

Decimated during Knin operation, survivors gathered at Bosanska Krupa in December.

Staff