Who Was the Strongest Among the Four Elite Divisions of the Nazi Waffen-SS During World War II?

A Review of the Four Ace Divisions of Nazi Germany in World War II

1. The “Adolf Hitler” SS Armored Division (LSSAH)

This division, initially perceived as merely ceremonial, performed surprisingly well in combat.

During the Blitzkrieg in Poland, it launched its attack from the south, sweeping through and successfully capturing Warsaw by the end of September.

In 1940, during the German invasion of Western Europe, the division advanced 80 kilometers into the Netherlands within six hours.

After the Netherlands surrendered, it was ordered to move south to assist German forces on the French border.

By June 24, when France surrendered, it had reached the Saint-Aignan area, making it the fastest advancing German division.

Following the Normandy landings, the Adolf Hitler Division withdrew from Belgium to the Arnhem area, where it played a critical role in the famous Battle of Arnhem, inflicting severe losses on British airborne forces.

Later, on December 16, 1944, the division participated in the Battle of the Bulge, a major offensive to reclaim the initiative on the Western Front.