The Fuhrers orders were clear
- conquer Mount Elbrus highest peak in the Caucasus mountains. But there were problems: Elbrus was behind the Russian lines; the route to the mountain was blocked by hostile Cossack tribesmen; & the fanatical Red Ravens Stalins elite corps of women commandos were dedicated to protect the mountains secrets. Above all the mountain itself aloof & undefiled was protected by bitter cold savage winds thin air treacherous traverses
- it was a killer. Only one unit in the German Army could hope to fulfil the Fuhrers demand
- one unit with the necessary combination of bawdy reckless courage & elan of superb leadership & matchless skills: Stormtroop Edelweiss...