23 May 1943

23 May 1943 Conduct towards visitors to coastal fortifications Annex 158

Corps Headquarters to commanders of the 716th, 709th and 319th Divisions and Artillery Commander 118. Local commanders have repeatedly given visiting officers information unrelated to their official duties. For example, a higher fortress-engineer officer responsible for approving permanent works was shown obstacle and alarm plans and the internal organisation of a resistance nest at his request. He also received general complaints about accommodation that later proved unfounded or exaggerated. His report passed through several offices and caused unnecessary correspondence, about which complaints are justified.

In another case, a visit by a higher superior was used to present service matters that had not first been reported to the immediate superior. I prohibit such unmilitary behaviour. Official matters, orally and in writing, must follow service channels. Naturally, questions from superiors must be answered fully and openly even if the immediate superior does not yet know the information; report to him immediately afterwards in that case. Inform all commanders without delay. Signed von Zangen.

T-314 Roll 1604, T314_R1604_English_Translation.docx. 23 May 1943 | Source PDF pages 507. Selected island-related text; document or report date governs placement.