The Germans had occupied the "L-shaped House" in central Stalingrad since mid-September. The well-fortified six-story building just north of 9th January Square dominated an important sector of the Volga. The Soviets decided to use their newly developed storm tactics to seize the building. This would entail using a company-sized storm group, spearheaded by small assault groups armed with submachine guns and grenades. Chosen to lead the operation was Lt. Sedelnikov, and he made sure his men were well practiced in preparation for the attack.
