On this day 75 years ago...

German forces took hold of Rostov-on-don for the second time in as many years.The Battle of Rostov was a Soviet victory that took place in the early winter of 1941. It resulted in a substantial loss of life totaling over 20,000 souls. Prior to to the Red Army claiming victory over their land, Germans held briefly occupied the town. During this time, they were able to establish a Jewish council and order the registration of Jews. Less than a year later, the Panzer Division invaded the area again, this time successfully gaining control. An attempted evacuation of the community failed.This occupation would result in the most devastating Jewish extermination in Russia. On February 14, 1943, the Soviet Union would reclaim control of the area, only too late to save the native population. Today "Zmievskaya Balka", a memorial tribute to the victims serves as a reminder of this ugly passage in history.