"In 'A Better Comrade You Will Never Find,' Helmut Schiebel shares his firsthand experiences on the Eastern Front during World War II. His journey spans from 1941 to the war's conclusion. As a member of the 43 Motorcycle Infantry Battalion of the 13 Panzer Division, he participated in the invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941. After attending an Officer Candidate course in Germany, he returned as a Leutnant and platoon leader in April 1942. Wounded in June, he returned to Russia in September 1943.
Schiebel's path led him to the 18 Panzer Division but later transitioned to the antitank branch, joining Panzerjager Abteilung 88 in October 1943. He became a platoon commander on a Marder tank destroyer. Following heavy losses, the unit moved to Mielau, Poland, and trained with the heavy Hornisse tank destroyer. Sent to the Eastern Front in February 1944, Schiebel stayed behind for equipment and personnel. The book narrates the unit's experiences, including being trapped in the Kamenez-Podolsk pocket.
After escaping, Schiebel rejoined the unit in Galicia in July 1944, where he eventually became the commander of the 2nd company. The unit fought across Poland, Silesia, and eastern Germany, ultimately surrendering to American troops on May 7, 1945. Schiebel's memoir is a gripping account of his time on the frontlines, filled with detailed combat descriptions and valuable insights into armored tactics. It offers a unique perspective on small-unit actions and the challenges faced by soldiers during this tumultuous period of history."
