3. Fallschirmjäger (SD2)

 is an Axis Airborne division in Steel Division. The 3. Fallshirmjäger-Division proved to be among the toughest opponents the Allies faced in Normandy. Although lacking heavy guns and armour, they were highly motivated, well led, and equipped with the best weapons the Reich could muster. In the bocage, their firepower was unmatched… A skilled and charismatic leader, Schimpf led his division with great effectiveness in Normandy despite heavy odds.

A WW1 veteran, Schimpf transferred to the air force branch (Luftwaffe) years before it officially existed, it still being a secret training program in violation of the Versailles Treaty. Rising quickly through the ranks, he held several technical and staff positions, until being placed in command of 21. Luftwaffe-Field Division which he led for more than a year on the Russian Front. Being given command of 3. Fallschirmjäger-Division in February 1944, he led it through the Normandy campaign. Under his leadership, his division ranked among the best and most reliable German ones: during the desperate breakout attempts from the Falaise pocket, only what was left of the 12. SS-Panzer & 3. Fallschirmjäger remained as organised and disciplined units around their leaders to lead the charge. Although Schimpf was seriously wounded in the breakout, his paratroopers carried him with them in the escape.