Battle of Als

Background. The conflict arose from the November Constitution of 1863, which linked Schleswig to Denmark, prompting Prussian and Austrian forces to cross the border in February 1864. Following the fall of Dybbøl, the Danish garrison retreated to the island of Als. Prussian command ordered a night crossing of the Alssund, the narrow strait separating Als from the Jutland mainland, to begin on the night of 28–29 June 1864.

Engagement. Prussian forces executed a night crossing of the Alssund. This maneuver allowed them to occupy the island of Als, where the Danish garrison had taken refuge. The battle resulted in the defeat of the Danish troops stationed there, marking a significant Prussian victory in the war.

Outcome. Of the 9,000 Danish troops stationed on Als, approximately one-third were killed, wounded, or captured. The Prussian occupation of the island followed the successful crossing. The Danish garrison's retreat from Dybbøl to Als preceded this engagement, and the Prince's Life Regiment was the last Danish unit to leave Schleswig shortly after the battle.

Command. The Prussian forces were led by General Herwarth von Bittenfeld. The crossing was masterminded by the Chief of Staff, Leonhard Graf von Blumenthal. The specific crossing point was selected at Øster Snogbæk, utilizing the nearby Sottrup Storskov woods for cover.