Koenig orders the breakout by night, making detailed plans. Units in contact with the enemy are to stay in position until the last moment. Two companies will remain behind as a deception party. All secret documents are carried out. The retreat heads southwest, to fool the Germans.
German artillery opens up, burning several vehicles.
The breakout becomes a nightmare of bursting shells and parachute flares, machine gun fire, and infantry battles. French troops run into German minefields. The court-martial of German army captain Michael Kitzelmann ends in Orel. Kitzelmann, who won an Iron Cross Second Class for bravery, has spoken out against atrocities being committed on the Eastern Front. Kitzelmann's wish is granted.