Penal Company - Revision history

imported>Administrator: 11 revisions imported

2023-06-22T14:25:01Z

11 revisions imported

← Older revision	Revision as of 14:25, 22 June 2023
(No difference)

imported>Administrator: 1 revision imported

2023-06-19T02:54:53Z

1 revision imported

← Older revision	Revision as of 02:54, 19 June 2023
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2607:FB90:E34A:473D:6960:C012:826D:5DF8 at 07:29, 16 June 2023

2023-06-16T07:29:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:29, 16 June 2023
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			{{Grimdark}}
	{{topquote\| You need a suicide squad? \|Soviet Advisor, whenever a Penal Battalion is recruited in [[/v/\|Company of Heroes 2]]}}		{{topquote\| You need a suicide squad? \|Soviet Advisor, whenever a Penal Battalion is recruited in [[/v/\|Company of Heroes 2]]}}

165.225.62.176: /* In Real Life */

2023-01-24T17:40:46Z

In Real Life

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:40, 24 January 2023
Line 10:		Line 10:

	==In Real Life==		==In Real Life==
	The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (i.e. anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instinct), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[Blam\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend with mass casualties, retreats, and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was to capture everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" infamy) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated (or ordered an unsanctioned retreat) would be either executed on the spot. Execution was usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight, however. Most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were therefore composed of ordinary soldiers. Demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat ~~who~~ would be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.		The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (i.e. anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instinct), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[Blam\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend with mass casualties, retreats, and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was to capture everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" infamy) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated (or ordered an unsanctioned retreat) would be either executed on the spot or written up for a court martial. Execution was usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight, however. Most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were therefore composed of ordinary soldiers. Demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders - if they were convicted in a court martial that is. While typically a kangaroo court, plenty of officers who retreated without orders from untenable positions to better hold the line often ended up not getting executed or thrown into a penal unit.

	The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', and some Shtrafniki (less than a third) did manage to survive the war, most were killed in action. Those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from. Political prisoners, especially nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the suicide missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission in fighting condition would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.		The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service or being wounded in action would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', and some Shtrafniki (less than a third) did manage to survive the war, most were killed in action. Those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from. Political prisoners, especially nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the suicide missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission in fighting condition would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault. Despite the high casualty rates, these units often ended up earning awards, and the non-political prisoners had a chance to return to their original units through either injury or their sentence running out.

	The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or [[Commander Kubrik Chenkov\|"minefield clearing"]].		The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or [[Commander Kubrik Chenkov\|"minefield clearing"]].

1d4chan>Cavgunner: So many grammatical errors. Also, who said you can't get maimed in a plane and survive? Dumb.

2022-09-27T22:29:04Z

So many grammatical errors. Also, who said you can't get maimed in a plane and survive? Dumb.

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:29, 27 September 2022
Line 3:		Line 3:
	==Flames of War==		==Flames of War==
	[[File:PenalCompany.jpg\|thumb\|right]]		[[File:PenalCompany.jpg\|thumb\|right]]
	In game, they can replace a Rifle Company, giving you Fearless troops (3+, 2+ due to the Commissar) that assaults on 3+		In game, they can replace a Rifle Company, giving you Fearless troops (3+, 2+ due to the Commissar) that assaults on 3+.
	===Mid War===		===Mid War===

Line 10:		Line 10:

	==In Real Life==		==In Real Life==
	The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation ~~instincts~~), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[Blam\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend ~~not only~~ with mass casualties, ~~but~~ retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was ~~catching~~ everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" ~~in/fame~~) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot ~~(a sentence~~ usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), ~~but most~~ people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were ~~actually the latter, demoted~~ officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would ~~now~~ be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.		The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (i.e. anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instinct), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[Blam\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend with mass casualties, retreats, and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was to capture everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" infamy) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated (or ordered an unsanctioned retreat) would be either executed on the spot. Execution was usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight, however. Most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were therefore composed of ordinary soldiers. Demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.

	The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) ~~managed~~ to survive the war, most were ~~often~~ killed in action~~, and those~~ whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from~~; political~~ prisoners, especially ~~Nationalists~~ from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the ~~Suicide Missions~~ they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.		The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', and some Shtrafniki (less than a third) did manage to survive the war, most were killed in action. Those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from. Political prisoners, especially nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the suicide missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission in fighting condition would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.

	The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or [[Commander Kubrik Chenkov\|"minefield clearing"]].		The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or [[Commander Kubrik Chenkov\|"minefield clearing"]].

	A little known fact was that the Soviet Air Force also operated Shtrafniki. They were used as pilots or gunners in the intense air missions over Stalingrad, but unlike their infantry counterparts, the air force kept no records on these men or their victories. Just like the infantry, if a Shtrafniki returned, they would simply be reassigned to the next bombing run and expected to repeat running sorties until they died. ~~And since this was the air force, you couldn't hope to get maimed and relieved of service.~~		A little known fact was that the Soviet Air Force also operated Shtrafniki. They were used as pilots or gunners in the intense air missions over Stalingrad, but unlike their infantry counterparts, the air force kept no records on these men or their victories. Just like the infantry, if a Shtrafniki returned, they would simply be reassigned to the next bombing run and expected to repeat running sorties until they died.

	{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}		{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}

2001:8003:1C20:8C00:F878:82A8:3A23:19BF: /* In Real Life */

2022-06-08T06:07:37Z

In Real Life

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:07, 8 June 2022
Line 14:		Line 14:
	The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially Nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.		The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially Nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.

	The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or "minefield clearing"		The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or [[Commander Kubrik Chenkov\|"minefield clearing"]].

	A little known fact was that the Soviet Air Force also operated Shtrafniki. They were used as pilots or gunners in the intense air missions over Stalingrad, but unlike their infantry counterparts, the air force kept no records on these men or their victories. Just like the infantry, if a Shtrafniki returned, they would simply be reassigned to the next bombing run and expected to repeat running sorties until they died. And since this was the air force, you couldn't hope to get maimed and relieved of service.		A little known fact was that the Soviet Air Force also operated Shtrafniki. They were used as pilots or gunners in the intense air missions over Stalingrad, but unlike their infantry counterparts, the air force kept no records on these men or their victories. Just like the infantry, if a Shtrafniki returned, they would simply be reassigned to the next bombing run and expected to repeat running sorties until they died. And since this was the air force, you couldn't hope to get maimed and relieved of service.

	{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}		{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}

210.245.51.220: /* In Real Life */

2022-06-08T06:01:57Z

In Real Life

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:01, 8 June 2022
Line 10:		Line 10:

	==In Real Life==		==In Real Life==
	The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[Blam\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were actually the latter, demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would now be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.		The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[Blam\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were actually the latter, demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would now be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.

	The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially Nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.		The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially Nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.

210.245.51.220: /* In Real Life */

2022-06-08T06:01:22Z

In Real Life

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:01, 8 June 2022
Line 10:		Line 10:

	==In Real Life==		==In Real Life==
	The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[~~BLAM~~\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were actually the latter, demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would now be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.		The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[Blam\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were actually the latter, demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would now be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.

	The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially Nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.		The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially Nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.

1d4chan>MiaoKobayashisDragonMaid at 20:50, 3 May 2022

2022-05-03T20:50:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:50, 3 May 2022
Line 1:		Line 1:
	{{topquote\| You need a suicide squad? \|~~Company of Heroes 2~~ Advisor, whenever a Penal Battalion is recruited in [[/v/\|Company of Heroes 2]]}}		{{topquote\| You need a suicide squad? \|Soviet Advisor, whenever a Penal Battalion is recruited in [[/v/\|Company of Heroes 2]]}}

	==Flames of War==		==Flames of War==
Line 12:		Line 12:
	The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[BLAM\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were actually the latter, demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would now be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.		The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[BLAM\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were actually the latter, demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would now be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.

	The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially ''Nationalists'' from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.		The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially Nationalists from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.

	The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or "minefield clearing"		The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or "minefield clearing"

	A little known fact was that the Soviet Air-Force also operated Shtrafniki. They were used as pilots or gunners in the intense air missions over Stalingrad, but unlike their infantry counterparts, the air force kept no records on these men or their victories. Just like the infantry, if a Shtrafniki returned, they would simply be reassigned to the next bombing run and expected to repeat running sorties until they died. And since this was the air force, you couldn't hope to get maimed and relieved of service.		A little known fact was that the Soviet Air Force also operated Shtrafniki. They were used as pilots or gunners in the intense air missions over Stalingrad, but unlike their infantry counterparts, the air force kept no records on these men or their victories. Just like the infantry, if a Shtrafniki returned, they would simply be reassigned to the next bombing run and expected to repeat running sorties until they died. And since this was the air force, you couldn't hope to get maimed and relieved of service.

	{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}		{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}

1d4chan>MiaoKobayashisDragonMaid: /* In Real Life */

2022-05-03T19:47:27Z

In Real Life

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:47, 3 May 2022
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	==In Real Life==		==In Real Life==
	The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[BLAM\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions.		The ''Shtrafniki'' penal battalions were infantry units composed of cowards, deserters, and political prisoners (So anyone with an ounce of self-preservation instincts), led by a [[Commissar]] who was more than ready to [[BLAM\|instill discipline in his men one bullet at a time]]. The first phase of the Eastern Front was going badly for the Russians, who had to contend not only with mass casualties, but retreats and desertions. Things got so bad that the Russians even had to install Barrier Troops, basically a rear-guard composed of [[Inquisition\|NKVD troops]] whose main purpose was catching everyone who fled. Stalin's infamous Order 227 (Of "No Step Back!" in/fame) made it very clear that anyone who hesitated or ordered an unsanctioned retreat would be either executed on the spot (a sentence usually reserved for grunts who refused to fight), but most people they caught would be arrested, given a quick court-martial, and sent to the Shtrafniki battalions. Most of the Shtrafniki were actually the latter, demoted officers who ordered an unsanctioned retreat who would now be used as an example for anyone who dared question orders.

	The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''technically correct'', some ~~Shtraniki~~ (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in ~~the attempt~~, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially ''Nationalists'' and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.		The Shtrafniki were often used for assaults of heavily-defended positions under the promise that exemplary service would grant them a pardon. While this was ''[[Rules Lawyer\|technically correct]]'', some Shtrafniki (less than a third) managed to survive the war, most were often killed in action, and those whose sentence/service was coming to an end were often delegated to "mine clearing" missions that they would most likely not come back from; political prisoners, especially ''Nationalists'' from the various satellite states, and anti-Soviet dissidents, would remain marked men even if they managed to survive all the Suicide Missions they were sent on. The luckiest of them would be the ones who earned a pardon after receiving a grievous injury that would make it impossible for them to act in their intended role ([[The Last Chancers\|dying for the emp--Union]]), but anyone that survived a mission would simply be rounded up and readied for the next assault.

	The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well, but these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or "minefield clearing"		The Shtrafniki was actually an idea borrowed from the Germans (Straf is a german word, after all), who used their prisoners as expendable troops as well. Similar to the Soviets, anyone sentenced to service in the Strafbataillon was stripped of rank and political rights, and were expected to regain their honor and status on the battlefield. This incentive was often suitable enough in the early phase of the war, when morale was high and Germany was in a strong enough position that the soldiers had something to look forward to, but later in the war, these troops were more likely to desert to the Western Allies and so were of dubious effectiveness. The Germans were more likely to use their prisoners for slave labor or "minefield clearing"

			A little known fact was that the Soviet Air-Force also operated Shtrafniki. They were used as pilots or gunners in the intense air missions over Stalingrad, but unlike their infantry counterparts, the air force kept no records on these men or their victories. Just like the infantry, if a Shtrafniki returned, they would simply be reassigned to the next bombing run and expected to repeat running sorties until they died. And since this was the air force, you couldn't hope to get maimed and relieved of service.

	{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}		{{Soviet Forces in Flames of War}}