Panzer Lehr began forming in 30 December 1943[9] and moved to the Nancy–Verdun area in January 1944 to complete the process.[10] It was formed from several elite training and demonstration units.[11] Most of the division's original cadre was drawn from Panzertruppenschule I and Panzertruppenschule II, the Panzerwaffe's major training units.[10] These training and demonstration units were some of the most experienced and highly trained troops in the Panzerwaffe, with almost all having seen combat in the East, North Africa, Sicily or Italy and many having received decorations for bravery.[7] As a result of this, Panzer Lehr was considered an elite unit from the time of its formation.[12]