SS-Gebirgstruppe
The SS-Gebirgstruppe was a mountain troops formation of the Waffen SS of the Tanoa Einsatzgruppen. Founded on 7 August 1974 by Jan Paap, it operated in the mountainous regions of Tanoa and Argentina. Its soldiers conducted reconnaissance missions, patrolled territory under Tanoan control and carried out raids against resistance forces. The formation remained active until 30 November 2024.[1][2]
| SS-Gebirgstruppe | |
|---|---|
| Active | 7 August 1974 – 30 November 2024 |
| Country | Tanoa |
| Allegiance |  Tanoa Einsatzgruppen |
| Branch | Waffen SS |
| Type | Mountain troops |
| Role | Mountain reconnaissance, patrols, raids and security operations |
| Size | 43,000 (c. 2019) |
| Colors |
|
| Commanders | |
| Ceremonial chief | Eef Paap |
| Notable commanders | |
Organization and operations
editThe SS-Gebirgstruppe was organized into groups of five to twelve soldiers, generally commanded by an SS-Obersturmführer or a more senior officer. Its soldiers received training for mountain operations and used mountaineering equipment suited to the terrain. Snowshoes and ski gear were used when required by the weather.
The formation patrolled mountainous territory in Tanoa and Argentina. Its soldiers conducted raids against resistance forces and were also assigned to security duties in areas under Tanoan control. Jorge Carbini and Fabian Albert Guelfo served as commanders of the formation, while Eef Paap held the position of ceremonial chief. By approximately 2019, the SS-Gebirgstruppe had a reported strength of 43,000 personnel.
The SS-Aufklarüngsgebirgstruppe was a reconnaissance subunit of the SS-Gebirgstruppe. Its soldiers operated behind enemy lines to observe troop movements and identify enemy positions. They used binoculars and rangefinders during reconnaissance patrols, then reported their findings by radio.
In 2022, eight Indigenous Tanoan civilian prisoners escaped during transport at Mont Tanoa. Guelfo directed their pursuit by SS-Gebirgstruppe soldiers and ordered his troops to shoot at the fleeing prisoners. Three were killed. The other five were captured and returned to the Vulkane Einsatzgruppen, which administered the Mont Tanoa concentration camp.[3]
Dissolution
editThe SS-Gebirgstruppe ceased operating on 30 November 2024, when the Waffen SS was dissolved following the collapse of the Tanoa Einsatzgruppen.[2]
See also
editReferences
edit- ↑ "Waffen-SS". Departments of the Tanoa Einsatzgruppen. Vrienden Universe Wiki.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Dissolution". Waffen SS. Vrienden Universe Wiki.
- ↑ "Military career". Fabian Albert Guelfo. Vrienden Universe Wiki.