In contrast to the slow and difficult advances further north, the Finnish III Corp’s advance into Lapland was conducted with skill and dash and achieved quick success. General Sillasvou’s thrust into Lapland was spearheaded by Group 1, which faced the Russian 5th Division. By July 18th, the Finns had advanced an astounding 40 miles through incredibly difficult terrain. By July 30, the Finns were moving a battalion through the wilderness into the Russian rear. On August 7, the Finns reached Kestenga, which was desperately defended by a scratch force of Russians made up of conscripted laborers and the headquarters staff from the Fourteenth Army. The Finns isolated the garrison from support and tightened the noose to strangle the defenders.
