Chapter 12- The Final Collapse Summary and Analysis

Guderian asks to speak to SS Leader Himmler while the latter is with Hitler. Again Guderian speaks of an armistice but makes no headway. Hitler suggests that Guderian should go on sick-leave. The OKH is heavily bombed, and Guderian barely escapes injury. Gen. Heinrici, the new commander of Army Group Vistula is ordered to relieve the surrounded fortress of Kustrin. On March 27th, Hitler is angry that the attack fails. Guderian shows him proof that the attack received all the ammunition available and suffered heavy casualties. Guderian contradicts Hitler, and Hitler insists that Guderian must go on a six-week leave. Guderian leaves and is captured by the Americans on May 10th, after the German surrender.