The Strange WW2 Tactic 40,000 Nazi Soldiers Couldn't Break

After three days of relentless battle, the Polish forces at Wizna were nearly spent.

German engineers, backed by roaring artillery and the grinding advance of tanks, had shattered their defensive line. One by one, the bunkers fell—until only two remained.

Inside, the last defenders clung to their rifles, their world reduced to concrete, smoke, and the screams of the wounded.

They held off 40,000 Germans for nearly three days with just 700 men. But time was running out. Many had fallen. Others were dragged away as POWs.

The survivors counted their last bullets.

Then came the ultimatum. The Wehrmacht’s General Heinz Guderian’s voice crackled through the smoke.

Surrender—or the captured Poles would be executed.

Silence.

The bunker shuddered as another shell exploded nearby. Eyes turned to their commander, Wladyslaw Raginis.

The walls trembled. Dust rained down.

Outside, the Germans were waiting. Raginis straightened his back. Poland would not fall while he still drew breath.