Summary: Instructional film illustrates the basic principles of ski warfare.
Description: (Reel 1) War on the eastern front in winter obliges soldiers to fight on skis, illustrated in opening sequence of a German combat exercise with snow-suited soldiers being pulled along by horses before skiing downhill and firing MG34s. Instruction follows on how to carry weapons (MG34, MP40, Kar 98k), ski in a column, draw a MG34 on a sledge and take cover from aircraft. (Reel 2) Instruction in form of realistic demonstration continues on handling weapons when approaching the enemy, falling onto the snow in firing position and exploiting the opportunities for camouflage afforded by trees and the snowscape. Soldiers` mistakes are rectified by an instructor and correct methods shown in slow motion. (Reel 3) Demonstration of firing positions covers prone (using sticks and/or skis for support), kneeling and standing. Firing and crawling forward with a MG, getting up after firing in action, skiing off and into position using skis as an elbow support and throwing grenades while advancing on skis are shown. (Reel 4) Working forward to attack is subject of third and final part. Crawling forward on skis, on one`s knees carrying a MP or MG, lying on skis and pushing forward with the feet are shown as soldiers creep forward to house and lob grenade at it. Sledge is used for carrying ammunition (loaded on and covered by tarpaulin) and as support for firing MGs in snow. Film ends with methods for towing skiers behind a horse, sledge and a caterpillar truck.
