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UPDATED VERSION 2002

SEPTEMBER 1944 RESEARCH FILE 1

( U.S. RECORDS )

Period: 12 – 14 September 1944

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INDEX 12 September 1944 (page 5 - 38) G-2 DOCUMENTS & MESSAGES HQ XIX CORPS 12 SEPTEMBER 1944 (new) G-2 PERIODIC REPORT #90 Headquarters XIX Corps (new) ANNEX #1 TO PERIODIC REPORT #90 Headquarters XIX Corps (new) ANNEX #2 TO PERIODIC REPORT #90 Headquarters XIX Corps (new) G-3 SITUATION REPORT No. 192 HQ XIX Corps G-3 SITUATION REPORT No. 193 HQ XIX Corps G-3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 12 September 1944 (0800 hrs) G-3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 12 September 1944 (2000 hrs) LETTER OF INSTRUCTION #29 HQ XIX Corps (new) ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER #8 HQ XIX Corps (new) A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL FORWARD ECHELON Hq XIX Corps (new) A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL REAR ECHELON Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL CHEMICAL SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL ENGINEER SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL ORDNANCE SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL QUARTERMASTER SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL SURGEON SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) AFTER ACTION REPORT 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) S-2, S-3 JOURNAL 113th Cavalry Group ( Mecz. ) SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) UNIT HISTORY Troop “B” 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) DAILY ACTION REPORT 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) ANNUAL HISTORY 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) (new) S-3 JOURNAL 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn (new) UNIT JOURNAL 82nd Engr. C. Bn (new) JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn BRIEF HISTORY Battery “C” 467th AAA AW Bn (self-propelled) G - 2 PERIODIC REPORT No. 87 Hq 30th Infantry Division G - 3 PERIODIC REPORT No. 91 Hq 30th Infantry Division AFTER BATTLE REPORT Hq 30th Infantry Division G-3 Section UNIT JOURNAL 117th Infantry Rgt AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 119th Infantry Rgt UNIT HISTORY 120th Infantry Regiment (new) AFTER ACTION REPORT 743rd Tank Battalion UNIT HISTORY 967th FA Battalion (new) FIELD ORDER #23, Headquarters CC ”A”, 2nd Armd Div. MEMORANDUM Headquarters Second Armored Division Office of the Division Commander. AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 2nd Armored Division UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “A” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “B” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “C” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “D” UNIT HISTORY 66th Armored Regiment REPORT OF OPERATIONS (1 - 30 September 1944) Hq 66th Armd Regt AFTER ACTION REPORT 67th Armd Rgt MONTHLY OPERATIONAL REPORT Hq 41st Armd Inf Regt OPERATION REPORT 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “A” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “C” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “D” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “E” 17th Armd Engr Bn S-2 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division S-3 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division G-3 JOURNAL 2nd Armored Division SUMMARY OF EVENTS Headquarters 99th Inf Bn (Sep) REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) (new) UNIT HISTORY 16th Infantry Regiment ( 1st Inf Div) (new)

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13 September 1944 (page 38 - 72) G-2 DOCUMENTS & MESSAGES HQ XIX CORPS 13 SEPTEMBER 1944 (new) G-2 PERIODIC REPORT #91 Headquarters XIX Corps (new) ANNEX #1 TO PERIODIC REPORT #91 Headquarters XIX Corps (new) G-3 SITUATION REPORT No. 194 HQ XIX Corps G-3 SITUATION REPORT No. 195 HQ XIX Corps G-3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 13 September 1944 (0800 hrs) A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL FORWARD ECHELON Hq XIX Corps (new) A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL REAR ECHELON Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL CHEMICAL SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL ENGINEER SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL ORDNANCE SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL QUARTERMASTER SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new ) JOURNAL SURGEON SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) AFTER ACTION REPORT 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) S-2, S-3 JOURNAL 113th Cavalry Group ( Mecz. ) SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) members who have distinguished themselves in action. (new) UNIT HISTORY Troop “B” 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) DAILY ACTION REPORT 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) S-3 JOURNAL 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn (new) UNIT JOURNAL 82nd Engr. C. Bn (new) JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn BRIEF HISTORY Battery “C” 467th AAA AW Bn (self-propelled) G - 2 PERIODIC REPORT No 88 Hq 30th Infantry Division AFTER BATTLE REPORT Hq 30th Infantry Division G-3 Section UNIT JOURNAL117th Infantry Rgt AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 119th Infantry Rgt UNIT HISTORY 120th Infantry Regiment (new) AFTER ACTION REPORT 743rd Tank Battalion UNIT HISTORY 967th FA Battalion (new) FIELD ORDER #24, Headquarters CC ”A”, 2nd Armd Div. AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 2nd Armored Division UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “A” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “B” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “C” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “D” UNIT HISTORY 66th Armored Regiment REPORT OF OPERATIONS (1 - 30 September 1944) Hq 66th Armd Regt AFTER ACTION REPORT 67th Armd Rgt UNIT REPORT 702nd Tank Destroyer Bn MONTHLY OPERATIONAL REPORT Hq 41st Armd Inf Regt OPERATION REPORT 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “A” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “C” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “D” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “E” 17th Armd Engr Bn S-2 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division S-3 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division G-3 JOURNAL 2nd Armored Division SUMMARY OF EVENTS Headquarters 99th Inf Bn (Sep) REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) (new) UNIT HISTORY 16th Infantry Regiment ( 1st Inf Div) (new) 14 September 1944 (page 72 - 110) G-2 DOCUMENTS & MESSAGES HQ XIX CORPS 14 SEPTEMBER 1944(new) G-2 PERIODIC REPORT #92 Headquarters XIX Corps (new)

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ANNEX #1 TO PERIODIC REPORT #92 Headquarters XIX Corps (new) ANNEX #2 TO PERIODIC REPORT #92 Headquarters XIX Corps (new) SPECIAL STUDY – SIEGFRIED LINE XIX CORPS SECTOR, Sept 44. (new) G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 196 HQ XIX Corps G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 197 HQ XIX Corps G - 3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 14 September 1944 (0800 hrs) G - 3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 14 September 1944 A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL FORWARD ECHELON Hq XIX Corps (new) A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL REAR ECHELON Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL CHEMICAL SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL ENGINEER SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL ORDNANCE SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL QUARTERMASTER SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) JOURNAL SURGEON SECTION Hq XIX Corps (new) AFTER ACTION REPORT113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) S-2, S-3 JOURNAL 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz.) SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) UNIT HISTORY Troop “B” 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) DAILY ACTION REPORT 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) S - 3 JOURNAL 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn (new) UNIT JOURNAL 82nd Engr. C. Bn (new) JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn BRIEF HISTORY Battery “C” 467th AAA AW Bn (self-propelled) G - 2 PERIODIC REPORT No 89 Hq 30th Infantry Division G - 2 ESTIMATE No. 9, 30th Infantry Division G - 3 PERIODIC REPORT No 93 Hq 30th Infantry Division AFTER BATTLE REPORT Hq 30th Infantry Division G-3 Section UNIT JOURNAL 117th Infantry Rgt 14 September 1944 AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 119th Infantry Rgt UNIT HISTORY 120th Infantry Regiment (new) AFTER ACTION REPORT 743rd Tank Battalion UNIT HISTORY 967th FA Battalion (new) FIELD ORDER No 25 Headquarters CC ”A”, 2nd Armd Div. AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 2nd Armored Division UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “A” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “B” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “C” UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “D” UNIT HISTORY 66th Armored Regiment REPORT OF OPERATIONS (1 - 30 September 1944) Hq 66th Armd Regt S - 3 REPORT No 83 Hq 1st Bn 66th Armd Rgt S - 3 REPORT No 90 2nd Bn 66th Armd Rgt S - 3 REPORT No ? Hq 3rd Bn 66th Armd Rgt S - 3 REPORT No ? Maintenance Co 66th Armd Rgt S - 3 REPORT No 99 Service Co 66th Armd Rgt AFTER ACTION REPORT 67th Armd Rgt AFTER ACTION REPORT (Battle Report) 14th Armd Field Artillery Bn MONTHLY OPERATIONAL REPORT Hq 41st Armd Inf Regt OPERATION REPORT 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “A” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “C” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “D” 17th Armd Engr Bn OPERATION REPORT Company “E” 17th Armd Engr Bn S - 2 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division S - 3 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division G - 3 JOURNAL 2nd Armored Division SUMMARY OF EVENTS 99th Infantry Battalion (Separate) REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) (new) UNIT HISTORY 16th Infantry Regiment (1st Inf Div) (new) ANNEX (page 110 - 112)

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ANNEX 1: JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn (11 – 19 September) ANNEX 2: AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn ( 13 – 16 September) ANNEX 3: OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn ( 13 – 15 September) ANNEX 4: REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) (13 – 18 September ) ANNEX 5: AFTER ACTION REPORT113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) (14 – 15 September) Abbreviations (page 112 - 116)

Tuesday 12 SEPTEMBER 1944: G-2 DOCUMENTS & MESSAGES HQ XIX CORPS 12 SEPTEMBER 1944

JOURNAL COVER SHEET

Reports, Periodic Reports, Documents, Team Reports, Facsimiles (pertinent items to be listed on Journal Sheet), Visitors, Events, etc. received. Time Recd

From

No. of Copies

Type of Report

Disposition

0025 FUSA 6 G-2 Estimate # 25 W/R, Arty, Div 0025 FUSA 1 ea PW Reports 101600 – 111600 and 091600 – 101600 OB 0048 12 AAA 1 S-2 Periodic Report File 0059 30 Div 1 G-2 Spot Estimate to Accompany FO 39 Spot Rpt + File 0300 2nd AD 2 G-2 Periodic Report 0500 30th 2 Special Inter Report # 24 0500 30th 1 Tactical Inter Report 0500 30th 1 G-2 Periodic Report 0500 30th 2 PW Report 0830 Engr XIX 1 Engr Sit Report No 90 File 0830 Engr XIX 1 Engr Intell Notes No 41 File 0830 Engr XIX 1 Notes on German fieldworks No 4 File 0900 XIX G-3 1 G-3 Periodic Rpt No 97 on overlay File 0905

2 TD Gp 1 Ltr Pzkw Tiger II w/Pictures

1145 113 Cav 1 Periodic Rep No 39 1215 Col Pirce Invitation to Col Van Der Abeel to goto Hasselt 1230 CIC 1 Daily Report 1300 FUSA 6 G-2 Periodic Rpt No 93 w/OB notes Divs, 113, Arty 1300 V Corps 1 G-2 Per Rpt No 95 w Overlay & Est # 11 W/R 1300 FUSA 1 Captured Ger Maps (10-94 a SW + 94 a 50) 1300 SHAEF 14 Intell Notes No 26 Distr 1300 FUSA 1 Ltr: Map Availability File 1300 803 TD Bn 1 Ltr: Tank Destoyed (MK V) W/R 1300 VII Corps 1 Periodic Rpt # 98 W/R + File 1630 XV Corps 2 Periodic Rpt # 28 File 1707 G-3 1 Defensive plan for CP adjacent areas 1806 C/S 1 Letter of Instruction 29 1840 FUSA 1 ea Overprints on Siegfried Line sheets 6205, 6308 + 5704 File 2015 MII 424 6 Rpt # 161 See file copy 2245 2 TD 1 S-2 Periodic Report # 47 File 2253 Arty 2 Periodic Rpt # 84 W/R, File 2355 C/S 10 Adm O # 8

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G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit FUSA Time Rec’d

0345

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Lt Eisen

ISUM:

Prisoners taken N of HASSELT fr 16 Rcn Bn and reported to be part of 176 Inf Div. Stubborn resistance continues along entire Army front with strongest Resistance in the Lusumbourg area, EUPEN (K8027) is now reported clear of enemy. Mining of rds in VII Corps sector becoming more intense. Main resistance EUPEN area dn to the N believed fr 116 Pz Div. V Corps reports contact with 19 Inf Div, 130 Arty Regt and 127 Inf Regt of 48 Div. Prisoners also taken fr 6 Co, 901 PGR at P8742, who states regt no longer exists. (TWX ISUM Report fr Master)

Situation of V Corps front as of Midnight: Enemy continued delaying action except in area E of city of Luxembourg where determined resistance prevented our forces from advancing. The line runs generally W of the German border in the area N of the ATTERT river. (called in by Master)

Journal 1 Dissem: W/R, C/S

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 120645B Sep 44

Person Calling Maj Stone Rec’d by Lt Eisen On the Jayhawk front the enemy front lines run generally from S of Dahlen (K3836) – K6735 – K8027 – K7894 – K7101. Units in contact in front of 1st Div – elms of 116th Pz Div, 16 Security Regt, the 47th Pioneer Regt. In front of the 3rd Armd Div – the 105th Pz Brig. The Engr Bn of 2d Pz SS is in contact On the S. The enemy was fighting general rearguard action based on roadblock and minefields covered by small arms and some artillery. The strongest resistance was in the center from tanks and SP guns. There was a general increase in arty fire on the whole Corps front with some 155 fire falling S of Dahlen. 420 PWs were taken. PW states the 105 PZ Brig is composed of 2 Pz Gren Bn and 1 Pz Bn of 60 to 66 Mk V tanks Journal 2 Dissem: W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1145

Person Calling Capt Hewitt Rec’d by MAC We met no opposition until we reached south bank of little stream at 5643 where we received some Small arms, 20 mm and mortar fire, also 6341. Journal 3 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Art, 2 AD

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G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Tac/R Time Rec’d

1145

Person Calling Rec’d by At K0925 to WIJK all bridges out. There are two bridges at K5233 (good shape, RR and drawbridge). From WIJK to K8299 all bridges are out. 0900: K5538 ponton bridge half completed. From K5653 to 8299 all bridges are out. K5952 – 4 MT headed NW. Journal 4 Dissem: W/R, Engr, Arty, Divs

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit MII Time

Rec’d 1140

Person Calling Rec’d by

(Civilian sources) Atop Chateau de Caster (557476 on Maastricht map) is a German OP giving view as far as TONGREN (4045). Chateau can be seen from American lines. Just S of the chateau is a forest in which much enemy activity was observed yesterday. Journal 5 Dissem: W/R, Divs

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Time

Rec’d 121300B Sep 44

Person Calling Ln O Mr Cleghorn Rec’d by Maj White 21 Army Group SITREP as of 2400 Hrs. 4 Canadian Armd Div progress slow owing to bad tank country reached Eeeloo (H9791) and outskirts Bruges (C80) 2 Canadian Inf Div clearing coast to exclude Dunkirk (H28). Enemy strongpoint still holding out. 1st British Corps attack on LeHavre good progress against heavy opposition. Own troops made deep penetration into outskirts. VII Corps – Identification on VII Corps front – 46th Inf Div 1st Bn 979 Arty Regt, 109 and 778 and 972 Home Defense Bns. Enemy continue rearguard activity and hold line K7001 to 7904 to 8128 to 6735 to 5836. 0930 hrs – 4 Rcn report elements cross river at P699926. At 0830 bridge completed. 0900 hrs – 9 Div report Bn of 39th Regt in action at Spa (K675119) and Bn moving to that area. 1 Div attacked 0800 hrs no report yet on progress. 3rd Armd Div report Rcn 808246 and undefended roadblock at 812253. Journal 6 Dissem: W/R, Arty, C/S

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G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Powerhouse Ln O Time Rec’d

121330B Sep 44

Person Calling Rec’d by Capt Cavanaugh 120810 82d Rcn retaken town Zonhoven 120310 CCA reports enemy shelling N Hasselt – S Albert Canal 120745 AAA fired at Me 109 – no hits Journal 7 Dissem: W/R, Arty, ASP

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Antelope Time

Rec’d …..45B Sep 44

Person Calling Rec’d by Capt Cavanaugh Road block and mines 586367. 30th receiving heavy small arms fire and 20 mm fire in vic of 580420 Journal 8 Dissem: W/R, Arty, G-3, C/S, Engr, 2 AD

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom Time

Rec’d 121245B Sep 44

Person Calling G-3 Custom Rec’d by JMO thru Maj Creamer Some time this morning, elements pf the 120th Inf received a counterattack at junction of Albert and Wilhelm Canals (K5545). The counterattack was repelled and 73 EM and 1 Off were captured. It is believed that this is the entire Task Force whose mission was to capture and blow the locks on the Canal N of Lanaye to flood the vic of Maastricht. This move is regarded by the G-3 of the 30th Inf Div as enemy intention of pulling out.. Journal 9 Dissem: W/R, Arty, C/S, 2 AD

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 121330B Sep 44

Person Calling Rec’d by Mr Stansbery Armd Recce mission: 0845 hrs. Observed large concrete wall 50’ wide 75’ high, with obstacles on top, running from K8556

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to K7070 (along border). Newly dug trenches in rear following general line of wall, starting ¼ mile E of wall and in depth of 1 – ½ miles. 1000 hrs. K0870 to S, there are trenches running parallel to frontier. 1200 hrs. Marshalling yard at Aachen is very active. Journal 10 Dissem: W/R, C/S, G-3, Arty, Divs

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Victor Time

Rec’d 121410B Sep 44

Person Calling Maj Reis Rec’d by Capt Cavanaugh All enemy traffic is headed toward Bonn (near Cologne). Journal 11 Dissem: G-3, Divs, W/R, C/S, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 1640

Person Calling Maj Rosengartem Rec’d by GFG Agent at Belgium reports on 10 Sept 1500 troops moved from GENCK K4365 to EYSDEN K5867. Crossroads at K491699 mined Journal 12 Dissem: 30 Div phoned, 2AD phoned, W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1645

Person Calling Capt Brown Rec’d by Maj Graybill From Custom 2 Our Arty fired on, some observed fire on enemy assembly areas in grid square K5843, K5844, and K6444. Journal 13 Dissem: W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1720

10

Person Calling Col. Hall Rec’d by Maj. Graybill

Spot Report from a captured map:

General MLR from K65554000 to K56304305. K62954395 – CP 984 Regt In area: Bn CPs at K64404490 979561 – trains K58454380 929538 – 348 Div assembly area K58254545 899353 – CP 81st Corps

At K61004470 some enemy troops 749338 – CP 116 Pz Div K629524 – Dump 633452 – CP of Div – number unknown 784591 – CP 275 Div 708479 – trains 872477 – CP 353 Div 733492 – Assembly area 829593 – CP 483 Regt Asch 4971 – in center of town at crossroad –

CP 176 Div 922554 – a Corps CP 643607 – CP 5th Pz Army 670611 – CP of an SS Pz Div Boundary along general line Eupen to Bonn on the Rhine Journal 14 Dissem: W/R, Arty, G-3, Master

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 1807

Person Calling Maj Brungs Rec’d by Maj Graybill Tac/R reported seeing a large concrete wall from 1 – 50 ft wide and 75 ft high with obstacles on top running from K8586 N along German Frontier to K7070 Newly dug trenches to E of wall followed along general line of wall starting ¼ mile E of wall itself and extending in depth to 1 ½ miles. 1st Inf Div crossed German Border at K8037 at 1515B. Journal 15 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Antelope Time

Rec’d 1815

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Maj Graybill Contacted approx 175 dug in enemy with bazookas and AT Gun at 564434. Journal 16 Dissem: W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Powerhouse 2 Time 2020

11

Rec’d Person Calling Maj Frazer Rec’d by Maj Graybill Niederlandisch Landsturm Bn a Dutch SS unit – 4 Cos of 140 men each. Identified at CR 2 miles N of Hasselt. Journal 17 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty, phoned Master, 30th

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 2230

Person Calling Col Hall Rec’d by Maj Graybill Information from captured map (our msg 14) supplemented by following information: Order signed by CG 275 Div believed to be a Col Schmidt. Time signed 112345 Sept 44. 275 Inf Div will continue to hold enemy in order to gain time in which to work on West Wall and removal of German civilians from combat zone. Right sector to be held by 176 Inf Div before which turns towards N from E of HASSELT. Left sector to be held by 49 Inf Div which is to hold a line even with RR. Boundaries right to 176 Inf Div as before. Left boundaries 49 Inf Div TOURON – ST MARTIN – GULPEN – HERFEN (ORTE) will belong to 275 Inf Div sector. Journal 18 Dissem: W/R, Arty, G-3, C/S,

2nd Armd Div phoned

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit MII 424 Time

Rec’d 2253

Person Calling Sgt Morgenstern Rec’d by Maj Graybill Belgian G-2 reports: Arty in vicinity K555480 between canal and Meuse River. Footbridge at Canne still intact. German camouflaged and fortified Radar station at HANSENHOE vic K518589, small airstrip there station manned by women. Military airport still operates vic K4765, West of highway Journal 19 Dissem: W/R, Arty, Divs phoned

G-2 PERIODIC REPORT #90 Headquarters XIX Corps

From: 120001B Sept 44 To : 122400B Sept 44

No. 90 Maps: No change

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1. ENEMY SITUATION AT END OF PERIOD

a. a. Enemy Front Lines From K2568 – generally about 1 mile N of ALBERT CANAL to GELLICK K5056 – then along ALBERT CANAL to K5647 – then along 47 EW grid line to K6647 – then SE to K7042.

b. b. Defensive Organisation

An armd recce mission flown at 120845B Sept reported the following information Observed large concrete wall 50 feet wide, 75 feet high, with obstacles on top. Wall runs along German border from K8556 to K7070. Newly dug trenches in rear follows general line of wall starting ¼ mile E of wall and in depth one and one half miles.

c. c. Units in Contact Elements of following divisions have been identified on the Corps front: 3rd Para Div, 275th Inf Div, 347th Inf Div, 348th Inf Div, 346th Inf Div. In addition, many stragglers from 32 miscellaneous units have been identified. The 2nd Armd Div reported the capture of a PW from Neiderland Landsturm Bn, a Dutch SS unit, at the Ch 2 miles N of HASSELT.

d. d. Artillery Light caliber shelling was reported to have fallen on fwd elements of 2nd Armd Div, 30th Inf Div and 113th Cav Gp. This shelling in some instances came from single roving guns.

2. 2. ENEMY OPERATIONS DURING PERIOD

a. a. General Summary The enemy continued to fight a defensive action along the Corps front. Road blocks, small groups of dug in infantry and roving SP guns were encountered by our advancing forces.

b. b. Operations of Component Elements

(1) (1) Artillery – Amount of enemy arty increased during the period. However, it still remains light in activity. Most of the fire was of an harassing nature on our forward elements.

(2) (2) Aviation Combat – Enemy air activity over Corps sector decreased during the period with

only one HE 111 reported flying in the vicinity of K210580.

(3) (3) Engineers – The activity of enemy engineers continues to be an important factor in the enemy defense plans with road blocks and mines being encountered at road junctions and defiles.

Tac/R report on bridges as of 12 Sept 44:

K5653 – Road & RR bridge intact K5653 to K8299 – All bridges out K5652 – Road & RR bridge intact K6472 – Road bridge intact K6164 – Road bridge intact K7790 – Road bridge intact K7893 – Road bridge intact K6269 – Road bridge out K6479 – Road bridge out K6780 – Road bridge out K7084 – Road bridge out L1225 – Road & RR bridge intact L0836 – Road & RR severely damaged K5552 – Bridge intact K5456 – Bridge intact K5860 – Bridge intact K6379 – Bridge intact

(4) (4) Infantry – Enemy infantry have fought defensively throughout the period except for one counterattack at the junction of the ALBERT and WILHEM CANALS K5545 which was

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repelled and resulted in our Forces capturing 73 EM and 1 officer of the counterattacking troops. Late in the afternoon it was observed that the enemy was concentrating some infantry in grid square K5843 which was fired upon by our arty and evidently broke up the enemy attempt to assemble a counterattacking force.

3. MISCELLANEOUS

a. a. Weather – 122000B Sept – 132000B Sept 44. Clear tonight and tomorrow morning. Rain tomorrow morning. Visibility fair in early morning and mid-morning, becoming good in late morning and afternoon. Little change in temperature.

b. b. A captured enemy map and a document signed by the CG of 275th Inf Div indicate that we are

opposed by 275th Inf Div with 176th Inf Div operating on our left and 49th Inf Div operating on our right. According to the captured document the mission of the 275th Inf Div is to continue to hold our forces in order to gain time in which to work on the West Wall and permit the evacuation of civilians from the combat zone.

4. 4. ENEMY CAPABILITIES No change.

WASHINGTON PLATT Colonel, GSC

G-2 2 Incl. Annex #1 – Consolidated Corps PW Report Annex #2 – Order of Battle Notes Distribution: FUSA (3) 179th FA Gp 30th Corps (British) V Corps (2) 258th FA Gp CG XIX VII Corps (2) 8th FA Gp C/S VIII Corps 119th FA Gp (5) G-3 TUSA 228th FA Gp (5) W/R 2nd Armd Div 113th Cav Gp (3) Engr 1st Inf Div 16th AAA Gp Sig 28th Inf Div 68th Med Gp Air O 30th Inf Div 1104th Engr Gp (3) Arty (2) 79th Inf Div 1105th Engr Gp PI 20 2nd Sig Bn 1115th Engr Gp (5) MII 424 175th Med Bn 3252 Sig Serv IPW 39 743rd Tank Bn 12th Army Gp File (10) 744th Tank Bn 21st Army Gp 749th Tank Bn Det Zu, 21st MWU 2nd TD Gp (2) Msg Cen (2) 12th AAA Gp 49th AAA Brig 7th Armd Gp 8th Corps (British) ANNEX #1 TO PERIODIC REPORT #90 Headquarters XIX Corps Annex #1 to Periodic Report #90

CONSOLIDATED CORPS PW REPORT FROM 102400 TO 112400

Total PWs reported from cages of Corps units for the period: 109 Breakdown of PWs according to units follows:

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Div No, of PWs Regiment or Separate Unit No. of PWs Capturing Unit 3rd Para 6 5th Regt 5 30th & 2nd Armd Div 9th Regt 1 30th Div 275th Inf 11 983rd Regt 1 30th Div 985th Regt 4 Hq XIX Corps 275th Feld Ers Bn 6 258th Field Arty Bn 348th Inf 9 863rd Regt 5 113th Cav Gp 864th Regt 3 2nd Armd Div 348th AT Bn 1 258th Field Arty Bn 346th Inf 3 858th Regt 3 2nd Armd Div 66 Stragglers from the following 32 units: 1104th C Engr Bn,

113th Cav Gp, 30th Div & 2nd Armd Div

Kamfgruppe “Schrater” (49th Inf Div); 47th Inf, 149th Inf, 2nd Pz, 21st Pz & 9th SS Divs; 4th AA, 191st Arty, 148th Gren, 193rd Pz Gren, 2nd Pz Gren, 16th Security & 22nd GAF Regts; 509th Mobile Bn, V Gaf Repl Bn, Gaf Technical Unit “Detmoln”, Obs Repl & Tng Bn, 929th Gren Bn z.b.V. 736th Landesschuetsen Bn, ? Tech Engr Bn, Co “Arnsberg”, 103rd Convalescent Co, 485th Local Defense Bn, 193rd Inf Repl Bn, 948th Security Bn, 403rd Inf Res Bn, 623rd Supply Bn (15th Corps), German Military Prisoner (Liege) & Flemish prisoner.

3. 3. Without exception the above PWs are stragglers who came into this area from the west and Southwest. They were assembled, in many cases, by SS and other personnel into small fighting units for the defense of the ALBERT Canal – MEUSE River line. They had no information about the German plans or fortifications East of this line.

IPW TEAM #39

ANNEX #2 TO PERIODIC REPORT #90 Headquarters XIX Corps Annex #2 to Periodic Report #90 DUTCH AND BELGIAN SS The British 30th Corps reports that a Dutch SS Regt left Hertogenbosch, Holland, on September 4 for either Maastricht or Eindhoven. A Belgian civilian reports that on September 10 in the woods W, N, and E of Bolderberg, one km N of Stockroye K-2765 there were about 2000 SS men belonging to the 6 SS Frw (Volunteer) Sturmbrigade (Assault Brigade) “Langemarck” and the 12 SS Div “Hitler Jugend”. These units are probably under the command of SS Major General Richard Jungelaus, Chief of the Waffen SS in Belgium. According to PW statements the 1st Regt (47 SS Pz Gr Regt) of the 18 SS Pz Gren Div “NEDERLAND”, which may have been renamed the “Horst Wessel” Div, came from Holland, for the defense of Belgium. The PWs reported several hundred men of this division were used to defend the RR bridge NW of Hasselt. Additional members of the unit were apparently given the mission of defending a sector eight km wide N of the Albert canal on both sides of Hasselt. The fact that this unit was called “Nederland” may indicate that not the Div but – SS Frw Pz Gren Brigade “Nederland” is present in this sector. The following is a list of Belgian, Flemish, and Dutch SS units which we may encounter: 18 SS Pz Gren Div “Nederland” or “Horst Wessel” 47 SS Pz Gren Regt 48 SS Pz Gren Regt “General Seyffardt”

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4 SS Frw Pz Gren Brigade “Nederland” 5 SS Sturmbrigade (Assault Brigade) “Wallonien” 6 SS Frw Sturmbrigade “Langemarck” G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 192 HQ XIX Corps FROM: CG XIX CORPS 12/1327B

TO: CG FIRST ARMY, CG FIRST HQ, CG 30TH BR CORPS, CG VII US CORPS, CG 30TH INF DIV, CG 2D

ARMD DIV, CO 7TH ARMD GP.

SITREP 192 AS OF 12/1200B 30TH INF DIV 117TH INF 1ST BN 590422 2D BN 583413 119TH INF 1 ST BN 590405 2D BN 586401 3D BN 600389 120TH INF NO CHANGE 120TH INF REPELLED COUNTER ATTACK VIC JUNCTION ALBERT-WILHELM CANALS. REPULSED ATK, CAPTURED 73 MEN AND 1 OFFICER 1ST BN 117TH INF ENTERED HOLLAND AT 1000 2D ARMD DIV 3D BN 41 INF 490525

82D RCN ELMS ALONG RR AT 326648 OTHER ELMS AT 410690 ARTY IN POSITION TO FIRE VIC MAASTRICHT OTHER ELMS 2D ARMD DIV NO CHANGE

CP’S 30TH DIV 593387

G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 193 HQ XIX Corps FROM: CG XIX CORPS 130020B

TO: CG FUSA TAC, CG FUSA, CG IX TAC, CG VII CORPS, CG XXX BR CORPS, CG 2AD, CG 30TH INF

DIV, CO 113 CAV GP. ( ATTN G-3 )

SITREP 193 AS OF 122400B SEPT44 2D ARMD DIV 82ND RCN ALONG GENERAL LINE NORTH OF RAILROAD (K325647 - 410690). 3RD BN 41ST INF 490526, 1ST BN 41ST INF 445515. 30TH INF DIV 117TH INF 1ST BN 610453

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2ND BN 585446 3RD BN 600437 119TH INF 1ST BN 650456 2ND BN ASSEMBLY AREA VIC 630440 3RD BN 660445 120TH INF NO CHANGE 113TH CAV RCN GP NO CHANGE CP’S 30TH DIV 555366 117TH INF 587426 119TH INF 631423 UNITS OF 30 DIV ADVANCED AGAINST CONTINIOUS ENEMY RESISTANCE.

82ND RCN, 2 AD, MET CONSIDERABLE RESISTANCE.

G - 3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 12 September 1944 FROM: DETACHMENT ZU 21 WEATHER SQUADRON 120625B TO: G-3 ARMOR FWD (WAR ROOM), AG ARMOR RR, HQ COMDT ARMOR RR

CEA (G-2) ADO (G-2) BT: TWELVE SEPTEMBER ONE NINE FOUR FOUR

WEATHER FORECAST FOR XIX CORPS SECTOR FOR 120800B - 130800B SEPT 44. LIGHT FOG AND HAZE EARLY THIS MORNING, WITH FOG DISSIPATING IN MID-MORNING AND HAZE DECREASING SOMEWHAT IN THE AFTERNOON. LOW CLOUDS FORMING IN EARLY AFTERNOON, REMAINING SCATTERED ALL AFTERNOON, AND DISSIPATING IN EVENING. CLEAR TONIGHT AND EARLY TOMORROW MORNING. VISIBILITY FAIR THIS MORNING, GOOD THIS AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT. ( remaining part missing )

G - 3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 12 September 1944 FROM: DETACHMENT ZU 21 WEATHER SQUADRON 121900B TO: G-3 ARMOR FWD (WAR ROOM), AG ARMOR RR, HQ COMDT ARMOR RR

CEA (G-2) ADO (G-2) VBH (G-2) BT: TWELVE SEPTEMBER ONE NINE FOUR FOUR WEATHER FORECAST FOR XIX CORPS SECTOR FOR 122000B - 132000B SEPT 44. CLEAR TONIGHT AND EARLY TOMORROW MORNING. HAZE TOMORROW MORNING. BROKEN HIGH THIN CLOUDS ALL DAY TOMORROW WITH MIDDLE CLOUDS FORMING IN AFTERNOON. VISIBILTY FAIR IN EARLY MORNING AND MID-MORNING, BECOMING GOOD IN LATE MORNING AND AFTERNOON. LIGHT EASTERLY WINDS TONIGHT AND TOMORROW MORNING, BECOMING MODERATE IN THE AFTERNOON. LITTLE CHANGE IN TEMPERATURE. MODERATELY FAVORABLE FOR SCREENING SMOKES IN MORNING, UNFAVORABLE IN AFTERNOON. UNFAVORABLE FOR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY. FAVORABLE FOR AERIAL ACTIVITY AND GROUND OPERATIONS. WEATHER OUTLOOK FOR Thursday, 14 SEPTEMBER 44.

17

DETERIORAING TREND. INCREASED CLOUDINESS WITH SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS IN EVENING.

LETTER OF INSTRUCTION #29 HQ XIX Corps

HEADQUARTERS XIX CORPS APO 270

121650B Sept 44

SUBJECT : Letter of Instruction # 29 TO : See Distribution 1. 99 Inf Bn is released from attachment to 7 Armd Gp at VALENCIENNES effective 121700B Sept 44. 2. 99 Inf bn is attached 2 Armd Div effective 121700B Sept at VALENCIENNES and will be motorized by 2 Armd Div. 3. 7 Armd Gp will concentrate remaining troops vic present Corps CP. CHARLES H. CORLETT Major General Distribution: FUSA - 3 2 TD Gp - 2 C/S - 1 V Corps - 1 12 AA Gp - 2 G-1 - 1 VII Corps - 1 1104 Engr C Gp - 2 G-2 - 1 30 Corps (Br) - 1 1115 Engr C Gp - 2 G-3 - 3 12 Army Gp - 2 7 Armd Gp - 2 G-4 - 2 IX Tac - 1 113 Cav Gp - 3 Civ Aff - 1 30 Inf Div - 5 2 Sig Bn - 1 Engr - 1 2 Armd Div - 5 62 Med Bn - 1 AG - 2 XIX Corps Arty - 7 48 Ord Bn - 1 Surg - 1 99 Inf Bn - 1 CG - 1 Sig O - 1 ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER #8 HQ XIX Corps HQ XIX CORPS APO 270 121700 Sept 1944 ADM O #8 MAPS: G.S.G.S. 1/100,000 1. SUPPLY:

a. a. Class I: (1) (1) Trkhd #92: (J927372) – opens 131000.

Troops: Hq & Hq Cp, XIX Corps 30th Inf Div (plus atchd trs) 2nd Armd Div (plus atchd trs) Hq & Hq Co, 7th Armd Gp 99th Inf Bn 744th TK Bn 803rd TD Bn Hq & Hq Btry, XIX Corps Arty

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8th FA Obsn Bn Hq & Hq Btry, 119th FA Gp 963rd FA Bn 967th FA Bn 978th FA Bn Hq & Hq Btry, 228th FA Gp 203rd FA Bn 228th FA Bn 979th FA Bn Hq & Hq Btry 258th FA Gp 258th FA Bn 92nd Cml Bn Hq & Hq Btry, 12th AAA Gp 467th AAA Bn 554th AAA Bn Hq & Hq Btry, 16th AAA Gp 129th AAA Bn 413th AAA Bn 559th AAA Bn Hq & Hq Troop, 113th Cav Gp (Mecz) 113th Cav Sq (Mecz) 125th Cav Sq (Mecz) Hq & Hq Co, 1104th Engr C Gp 67th Engr Top Co 246th Engr C Bn 247th Engr C Bn 503rd Engr LP Co 611th Engr LE Co Hq & Hq Co, 1115th Engr C Gp 82nd Engr C Bn 234th Engr C Bn 295th Engr C Bn 992nd Engr TB Co Hq & Hq Det, 1st QM Bn 3rd Plat, 506th QM Car Co 608th QM GR Co 970th QM Serv Co 599th QM Laun Co 4045th QM Trk Co 4046th QM Trk Co 852nd F & B Co 2nd Sig Bn (plus atchd trs) 62nd Med Bn Co C, 507th MP Bn Hq & Hq Det, 48th Ord Bn 92nd Ord MM Co 257th Ord MM Co 130th Ord MM Co

448th Ord Evac Co 503rd Ord HM Co (Tk) 3442nd Ord MAM Co 1513th Ord MAN Co

b. b. Class V:

(1) (1) ASP #122: (K090483) – now open. (2) (2) Flame Thrower fuel drawn from CWS Class II & IV Dumps.

c. c. Class III: (1) (1) Trkhd #92: (J929290) – now open.

d. d. Class II & IV: (1) (1) Med: (O-252602) – now open. (2) (2) QM: (O-320590) – now open. (3) (3) Ord: Thru supporting Ord Cos.

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(4) (4) Engr: (K-270075) (5) (5) Sig: (S-761398) (6) (6) CWS: (O-300589) – now open.

e. e. Water Points: (1) (1) WP: (K-208514) – now open. (2) (2) WP: (K-439546) – now open. (3) (3) WP: K-457416) – now open.

2. EVACUATION:

a. a. Casualties: (1) (1) By Div to Div Clrg Sta. (2) (2) From Div Clrg Sta to Evac Hosp by Army. (3) (3) Corps Trs: To Med installations as designated by Corps Surg.

b. b. Burial:

(1) (1) By atchd GR units. Burial by troops only in emergency. (2) (2) Cemetery: Divs and Corps Troops: (K-383482).

c. c. Salvage: (1) (1) (QM, Engr, Sig, CWS, & Med): Evacuated to Army Class I Trkhd, or to Army Salvage

Dump. (2) (2) Ord: All types of Ord material except vehicles and weapons, including captured material, to

the 3513th Ord MAM Co.

d. d. Captured Material: (1) (1) Captured material and supplies will be collected in parks or dumps in Corps or Div areas

and held under supervision of those Cmdrs, who will be responsible for guarding them until evacuated or taken over by Army. The number of parks or dumps will be limited as far as practicable.

(2) (2) Captured ammunition and vehicles : See Cir #85, Hq First US Army. Dated 24 June 1944.

e. e. Prisoners of War: (1) (1) Army: AVESNES (N-850940) (2) (2) Corps: (K-204528) (3) (3) Divs: To be reported.

3. 3. TRAFFIC: a. a. Circulation:

(1) (1) MSR’s: (a) (a) Road N-3 (b) (b) Road N-4 (c) (c) Road N-5 (d) (d) Road N-6 (e) (e) Road N-7 (f) (f) Road N-21 (g) (g) Road N-23 (h) (h) Road N-37 (i) (i) Road N-43 (j) (j) Road N-49 (k) (k) Road N-51 (l) (l) Road N-54 (m) (m) Road N-55 (n) (n) Road N-57

b. b. Road movement will be controlled by the following: (1) (1) All MSR’s are two way routes/ (2) (2) Cat-eye lights will be used in Corps and Army areas. (3) (3) Administrative Convoys:

(a) (a) Administrative Convoys (non-tactical movements) of ten (10) or more vehicles will be cleared with Corps Traffic Hq (G-4 Fwd, Armor 104) for Divisional units, by Division, for Corps Troops, by appropriate Hq ( Corps Arty, Gp, Separate Bn or Separate Co) and marked with a code letter and number assigned that convoy by Corps Traf Hq at time of clearing. Convoy Commanders are responsible that all

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convoy markings as prescribed by Cir #36, Hq First US Army, 22 Mar 44, are placed on appropriate vehicles before the convoys move and that these markings are removed immediately after arrival at destination.

(b) (b) Each vehicle in convoy will have a convoy movement number in six (6) inch letters on front bumper.

c. c. Construction and Maintenance of Routes:

(1) (1) Corps Engr units are responsible for construction and maintenance of all roads between Army Engr Fwd Boundary and Div Rear Boundaries.

4. 4. SERVICE TROOPS:

a. a. Co C, 507th MP Bn: (K-205538). b. b. 3rd Plat, 506th QM Car Co: Vicinity of Corps CP. c. c. 62nd Engr Topo Co: (K-227534) d. d. 62nd Med Bn: (J-242491). e. e. 1st QM Bn: (K-212514) f. f. 2nd Sig Bn: (K-216515) g. g. 48th Ord Bn: (K-347535) h. h. 1st Plat, 852nd F & B Co: (K-185492). i. i. 559th QM Laundry Co: (K-185492)

5. 5. PERSONNEL: a. a. Straggler Lines:

(2) (2) Corps: Hwy N-22 from Corps right boundary to Corps left boundary. (3) (3) Divs: To be reported.

b. b. Replacements: 86th Repl Bn (CZ control ) c. c. Strength Reports:

(1) (1) Daily Estimated Loss Reports per letter, this Hq, 29 June 44, subj: “Strength Report” (2) (2) G-1 Periodic Reports (Divs) per SOFM 101-5, Modified. (3) (3) S-2 Periodic Report (Corps Trs) per instructions this Hq, 28 Aug, 44. (4) (4) Weekly S-1 Reports from units of Corps Trs (exclusive of Divs) will be in accordance with

instructions and form, this Hq, dated, 28 Aug 44.

6. 6. MISCELLANEOUS: a. a. Corps Rear Boundary: From ATH along Hwy N-56 to MONS (exclusive to Corps). b. b. Divs Rear Boundary: From LUMMEN along Hwy N-18 to ST TROND; tnchce along Hwy N-22 to

HANNAT (inclusive to Divs)

c. c. Rear Echelon, Hq XIX Corps: (K-212514).

d. d. Military personnel will not enter towns or habitations except as required by tactical situation.

e. e. Award of the Certificate of Merit: Ref Cir #66 and #104, First US Army, cs. (1) (1) CG, XIX Corps Arty is authorized to award the Certificate of Merit to individuals of XIX

Corps Arty under his command. (2) (2) Unit Commanders of Corps Troops (exclusive of Divs and Corps Arty), may submit

recommendations for award of Certificate of Merit to this Hq. Such recommendations will include a citation prepared for the signature of the Corps Commander.

f. f. Div and Corps units will report without delay all special service 16mm films on hand to this Hq, Att:

Special Service Officer, Rear Ech.

By command of Major General CORLETT: H.E. MAGUIRE Colonel, G.S.C. Chief of Staff (Signed)

KEVIN O’SHEA Colonel, G.S.C.

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A C of S, G-4 A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL FORWARD ECHELON Hq XIX Corps

IN

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NO.

TIME

DATED

INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

0930 1 Maj Phillips flew to Trkhd #91. 1700 2 Adm O #8 published & distributed

A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL REAR ECHELON Hq XIX Corps

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INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

0830 1 Adm O #44, 30th Inf Div 1700 2 Change 4 to First US Army Adm O #5 2030 3 Operation Instructions #9, XIX Corps

JOURNAL CHEMICAL SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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No entry JOURNAL ENGINEER SECTION Hq XIX Corps FROM: 12001B Sept 44 TO: 122400B Sept 44 PLACE: St Trond 1 0010 Msg CO, 1115th Engr C Gp: One foot bridge on canal completed. Expect support bridge and treadway

complete by 0600 to island only. Will start river treadway at daylight enemy permitting. Situation on far shore hot. Notified G-3.

2 0010 Rec’d Engr Opns Order No. 75 fr First US Army and No. 76 (Four overlays showing road and bridge

status dated 9 Sept 44. One copy of overlays furnished G-4. 3 0645 Msg fr S-4, 1115th Engr C Gp: Treadway on canal twenty five per cent complete at midnight. Notified

G-3. 4 0645 Treadway across canal 90 per cent complete at 0400. Inf Support bridge completed at midnight.

Notified G-3 5 0935 Rec’d msg fr CO, 1115th Engr C Gp: Request Durham report to 1115th Engr C Gp for latest bridging

information. 6 1315 Rec’d msg fr G-2: At K0925 to Wijk all bridges out. There are two bridges at K5333 (Good shape, RR

and drawbridge). K5538 ponton bridge half completed. From K5653 to K8299 all bridges are out. K5952 – 4 MT headed NW

7 1400 Rec’d Highlights of Action of 1104th Engr C Gp period 11 June to 11 Sept 1944. 8 1410 Rec’d overlay of routes thru MAASTRICHT fr 1104th Engr C Gp.

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9 1430 Rec’d msg fr 113th cav: Road block and mines at 586367, 30th receiving heavy small arms fire and 20

mm fire in vic of 580420. 10 1515 Msg fr S-3, 1104th Engr C Gp: Enemy in force attacking across river BRIEGBEN – bridging

operations impossible to continue until small arms fire is cleared – reported to G-2 and G-3. 11 1620 Rec’d msg fr 654 Engr Top Co: Please return all Kodalines to 654 Engr Topo Bn as soon as

reproduction of same has been completed. Notified 62d Engr tope Co by telephone. 12 1620 Rec’d msg fr Engr First US Army: There is a large dam at F068235, three kilometres SE of

RUHRBURG. Damage to Dam may result in flooding of the area Monschau-Dur. 13 1815 Rec’d msg fr Engr first US Army: North of AACHEN there is a concrete wall reportedly 50 feet wide

and 75 feet high extending from K8556 to K7070. Trenches have been dug to rear of the wall and parallel to it. Trenches extend in depth from ¼ mile east of the wall to 1 – ¼ mile southeast of the wall. Bridges along the MEUSE are all out from K5233 to K8299, except for one RR Bridge and one drawbridge at WIJK.

14 2000 LO, 1115th Engr C Gp reported bridge in at K552368 as of 1815. 15 2045 Rec’d msg fr CO, 1115th Engr C Gp: Treadway br complete for traffic at 1615. JOURNAL ORDNANCE SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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1 0900 – Major Pickett visited 310th Ord Bn and saw Capt Cooper who stated that light and medium tank tracks were coming thru now and that 160 sets of track for Carrier, Cargo, M29 were due from the Comm Zone. He arranged for delivery to 48th Ord Bn of all limber lifting screws under control of the Bn. Also visited Army Ord and saw Capt Buchanan who stated that two each Tractors, Med. M5A1 were transferred to 52nd Ord Gp this date. The 30th Inf Div is now authorized only 30 each Carrier, Cargo, M29 and issue of Truck, ¼ ton to the division is now underway. 400 each Truck ¼ ton 4x4, now in main depot and would be released when conditioned.

2 1600 – Major Mercer and Capt Branson reported for duty with the Corps Ord Sec. 1630 3 Col Ray called stating we could obtain a minimum of 367 tons of 155mm How,

105mm How and 4.5” gun ammo from ASP 119 if we could furnish transportation. 4 1645 – Asked Artillery if they could furnish transportation. They could not. 5 1800 – Obtained use of 50 trucks tomorrow from Corps QM Trk Co to pick up

ammo from ASP 119. 2000 6 Called Col Ray re availability of 155mm Gun proj and GPF prop charges. Former

will be available on 15th. Indefinite when the latter will be. Air shipment from Omaha beach is 48 hrs overdue.

JOURNAL QUARTERMASTER SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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1630 1 Captain Thomas went to Class III Dump and gave the Class III Officer a third priority list for issuance of gasoline to Corps Troops.

JOURNAL SURGEON SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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0930 1 99th Inf Bn is short a medical officer. Called 62nd Med Bn to send a temporary replacement.

1100 2 Col KNAPP inspected messes of Forward and Rear echelons and the General’s mess. Generally satisfactory. Food handlers inspection satisfactory. Officers mess being supplemented with eggs and fresh vegetables. Health and command, excellent.

1515 3 Surgeon 30th Division called. He has received four MAC officers as replacements and Division is now at full strength on Medical Department officers.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) 12 September 1944 During the night of 11 - 12 Sept, the 119th RCT crossed the MEUSE and came up abreast of the 117th RCT on its right . The Inf “jumped off” at 0800 12 Sept, and the 125th and 113th proceeded to execute their missions, establishing direct liaison with the 119th and 117th RCT’s respectively. The Inf made steady though not rapid progress, meeting much small arms and arty fire and occasional mined areas. The two companies of the Inf which were attached to the Gp reverted to control of the 117th RCT at 0900. By nightfall , Tr “C” 113th Sq on the left, had reached K562432, while on the right; the 125th Sq operating with Tr “C” in the lead and Tr “A” echeloned to the right rear had reached K641429 and K650410. The Inf dug in for the night along the line K580440 - K593439 - K601433 - K615432. S-2, S-3 JOURNAL 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) In Out No. Dated Incidents - Messages - Orders - etc. 0055 22 12

Sept No bridge where Inf crossed they are using boats.

0035 0139 24 12 Sept

Two Co’s of 117 relieved from attachment to 113th Cav Gp at 120900B.

0500 27 12 Sept

From 113th Sq: Noting to report

0600 31 12 Sept

To both Sq’s: Keep us informed on progress of inf.

0825 39 12 Sept

113th Sq jumped off 0800

0852 0931 40 12 Sept

Fwd elms 113 Sq at 563386

0920 0945 42 12 Sept

Elms of 113th Sq contacted 2d Bn 117th Inf and 743 Tk Bn at 560397

0930 43 12 Sept

3 PW’s 59th Inf Div captured at MONTROUK.

0948 47 12 Sept

Fwd elms 117 Inf and Tr “C” 113th Sq at 565402

1003 54 12 Sept

1st Bn 117th Inf at 585401rec’d small arms fire N of that point.

1022 1036 56 12 Sept

Fwd elms Tr “C” at 573414

1030 1052 58 12 Sept

Engr dispatched to clear rd block at 610391

1 1030 59 12 Sept

To all units: Sugar is not to be used in Tuesdays coordinate code.

1050 1113 60 12 Sept

Rd block and mines at 586367 3d Bn 119 Inf CP at 593387.

1038 1114 61 12 Sept

2d Bn 117 Inf fwd elms 583413

1100 1130 63 12 Sept

Belgium’s report enemy dig in along rd from 582418 to 598420. 2nd Bn 117 Inf receiving hvy small arms fire and 20mm fire in vic 580420

1150 1200 67 12 Sept

Bridge out at 581369 with good by pass

1137 68 12 Sept

Tr “C 125th Sq advance slow due to large No of flat tires we had. 4 casualties, 2H/T 1 AG knocked out. Missing men and officer returned after last nights fight.

24

1222 1239 69 12 Sept

113th Sq CP moving to vic 564402

1200 72 12 Sept

2nd plat Tr “C” 615396

1200 73 12 Sept

Contact with 2nd Bn 117 Inf at 582418

1323 1400 74 12 Sept

113th Sq CP at 563390

1340 1436 77 12 Sept

Reinforced Co 3rd Bn 119 Inf is moving N at 567422

1355 1428 78 12 Sept

Captured Italion PW vic 570412 belonging to AA work Bn. PW states enemy this area chiefly AA units employing AA wpns.

1331 1435 79 12 Sept

Bridge 5...69 under repair will be suitable for loads of not over 6 tons in one hour bridge at 581369 blown, span 15 ft. Abutments good. Height 8 ft. Bypass adjacent suitable for all loads after 1 hrs work.

1405 1437 80 12 Sept

Contacted approx 175 dug in enemy with Bazookas and A/T gun at 564434.

1414 83 12 Sept

Captured 8 PW’s vic 568425

1410 1430 84 12 Sept

611306 is clear Tr “C” 125th Sq will push on

1445 86 12 Sept

113th Cav GP CP enroute to vic 600370

1555 88 12 Sept

125th Sq CP at 615390

1604 89 12 Sept

113th Cav Gp CP located at 595364

1717 96 12 Sept

Tr “C” 125th Sq route changed from 64529 to 660447; to 645429 to 666428 to 660447.

1845 99 12 Sept

30 Inf Div CP at 555365

1945 2055 103 12 Sept

Cleared rd of mines from 608385 to 610390. Cleared booby trapped rd block at 610390.

1955 2125 104 12 Sept

Fwd elms Tr “C” 113th Sq at 645430

2038 105 12 Sept

Fwd elms 113th Sq 561431; 125th Sq 645430 - 650410.

2152 109 12 Sept

1st Bn 117 dug in at 601433 - 615432. 2nd Bn 117 dug in at 593439 - 580440 then south to 550415, 3rd Bn Res at 580410. Tr “C” in direct contact with 2nd Bn. Time of 2nd Bn jump off tomorrow as yet undecided. Will jump off with the Inf.

From: SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) On 12 Sep 44 the squadron left the vicinity of St Remy, Belgium at 1200 hours and arrived in the vicinity of Vise, Liege, Belgium at 1300 hours. Distance traveled five miles. Weather clear and cool. The Squadron received the mission of protecting the right or west flank of the 30th Infantry Division. All attached units were returned to their respective organizations. Two platoons of Engineers were attached to Troop C for this operation. Several fire fights occurred during which two of the enemy were definitely killed and sixteen prisoners were captured. Our assault guns were credited with inflicting an estimated forty-eight enemy casualties. From: UNIT HISTORY Troop “B” 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) 12 September ... Dalhem .... Troop remained in bivouac during day. Attachments were released and motor maintenance performed on vehicles. Road blocks were established during the evening and the area outposted. From: DAILY ACTION REPORT 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) 12 Sep 44: (615390, vicinity of Aachen, Germany). The Squadron advanced to the NE protecting the right flank of the 30th Inf Div. only light opposition was encountered, small arms and MG fire. Numerous road blocks, mined and booby-trapped, were found. Our artillery was brought to bear on several enemy infantry targets with good results.

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Both Rcn Troops were reinforced by one platoon of Assault Guns each, which helped out considerably in stubbornly defended positions. Several dug in Germans were found along a railroad running into Aachen. Artillery was requested from the 30th Div and they responded with several direct hits. Track location (645405) From: ANNUAL HISTORY 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) Name: Technician 5th Grade (then Pfc) Donald J. Gurney, 32677642, Troop C Act: For heroic achievement against the enemy in France on 12 September 1944. When the advance of his platoon was held up by a strong enemy rearguard force, Tec 5 Gurnsey with two other men was sent out to knock out a machine gun nest and locate a mortar. He shot one of the enemy security guards for the machine gun, while the other men accounted for the rest. With their security gone, the crew of the machine gun tried to withdraw, but were shot by Tec 5 Gurnsey’s patrol. The enemy, believing there were more than three men, pulled out the rest of the force, enabling the platoon to continue on its mission. Reward: Bronze Star Medal per General Orders 60, Hq XIX corps, 12 November 1944. Name: Technician 5th Grade Earl L. Talbert 20743833, Troop C Act: For heroic achievement against the enemy in Germany on 12 September 1944. When the advance of his platoon was held up by a strong enemy rearguard force, Tec 5 Talbert, with two other men, was sent out to knock out a machine gun next and locate a mortar. Tec 5 Talbert crept up on the enemy security for the machine gun and killed two of them with a grenade. With their security gone, the enemy crew, thinking there were more than three men, tried to retreat, but were shot by the patrol. The remaining force of the enemy then withdrew, allowing Tec 5 Talbert’s platoon to continue forward. Reward: Bronze Star Medal per General Orders 60, Hq XIX Corps, 12 November 1911. Name: Technician 5th Grade Woodrow W. Wean, 33495487, Troop C Act: For heroic achievement in action against the enemy in Germany on 12 September 1944. When the advance of his platoon was held up by a strong enemy rearguard force, Tec 5 Wean, with two other men, was sent out to knock out a machine gun nest and locate a mortar. Tec 5 Wean covered the advance of the two other men who accounted for the machine gun’s security. With their security gone, the machine gun crew tried to withdraw, was spotted by Tec 5 Wean and wiped out by the patrol. The enemy force, thinking there were more than three men, withdrew and the platoon was able to continue on its mission. Reward: Bronze Star Medal per General Orders 60, Hq XIX Corps, 1 November 1944. S - 3 JOURNAL 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion

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INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

12 September, 1944 0846 613. 0846 “C” Co. position 543321 1335 614. 1335 “C” Co. - being shelled, moving to new location 1709 615. 1709 “C” Co. - Present position C.P., 1st and 3rd plts 596364. 2nd plt with 125th at

615388. 2015 616. 1958 Rcn Co. released and on way to Bn.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn Company “C” completed the timber bridge vJ959368. The Bailey bridge there was removed and a steel string bridge thirty feet long put in. The bridge was about thirty feet above the stream bed and it was necessary to construct wing walls on each abutment pier and then fill approaches back to road level. UNIT JOURNAL 82nd Engr. C. Bn

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Time dated

INCIDENTS, MESSAGES, ORDERS, ETC. Action taken

12 Sep

120900 C Co (less 1 plat) returns to Bn Bivouac

120900 Recon parties again dispatched to bridge sites. 121330 Recon parties unable to reach bridge sites because enemy

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opposition 121500 Recon dispatched to ANCHOR for information concerning bridge

sites

JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn ( see 19 September ) ANNEX 1 BRIEF HISTORY Battery “C” 467th AAA AW Bn (self-propelled) ( no entry) G - 2 PERIODIC REPORT No. 87 Hq 30th Infantry Division

HEADQUARTERS 30TH INFANTRY DIVISION G-2 PERIODIC REPORT

From: 12 0001 To : 12 2400

No.: 87 Maps: GSGS 2441, 4249, & 4336, 4 - 9 - R1 - R2 - S1 - S2, 1/100,000 1. 1. ENEMY SITUATION AT END OF PERIOD:

a. a. Enemy Front Line: Generally along 5645 - 6146 - 6546 -6842. b. b. Defensive Organization: Dug in positions for heavy weapons and individual infantrymen supported by

mortar and artillery fire. c. c. Units in Contact: 275 Inf Div with the 983 Regt and resurrected 948 plus stragglers. d. d. Artillery: Estimate two batteries light, one battery heavy artillery plus possible few scattered S/P guns of

light caliber. e. e. Reserves and other Forces Capable of Intervention: 49 Inf Div, 271 Inf Div, 353 Inf Div, 9th and 116 Pz

Divs and the 176 Inf Div are known to be in the area through captured documents.

2. 2. ENEMY OPERATIONS: a. a. General Summary: At 0645, about 100 enemy made a disorganized attempt without prior

reconnaissance to seize the locks on the ALBERT CANAL below MAASTRICHT. After the initial loss of about 20 casualties, the reminder willingly surrendered. East of the MEUSE RIVER some enemy troops were withdrawn during early hours of period to NORTH and NORTHEAST. The enemy resisted our advance using mortars, automatic weapons and considerable small arms fire. Artillery fire was heavier in amount during this period than in previous period but not particularly effective. Enemy reserves moving South to meet our attack moved openly and bunched up satisfactorily to make excellent artillery targets. While the enemy presented a stubborn defense, he continued to withdraw under pressure of our advance.

b. b. Component Elements: (1) (1) Artillery: Moderate amount if scattered harassing fire during period. Most fire of light caliber in single

or 4 gun battery volleys. (2) (2) Aviation: 3 or 4 bombs were dropped West of the MEUSE RIVER without the aid of flares toward

end of period. No casualties were reported. Target not apparent. (3) (3) Engineers: CR K491699 mined. Bridge at 581369 blown. Road mined at 586367. Mines on road

572397 and in field 578401. Mines and booby traps at 605386.

3. 3. MISCELLANEOUS: a. a. Estimate of Enemy Casualties Including Prisoners: Number of PW’s taken for period 120. Total for

operation 142. Total to date 7647. Enemy dead from division zone buried today 0. Total to date 225. Enemy tanks destroyed or captured today 0. Total to date 149.

b. b. Weather for period: Cool, clear with good visibility. c. c. Miscellaneous: (a) A German vehicle was knocked out by 117th Infantry. Personnel from nearby noted

that the vehicle appeared to contain valuable documents. These documents were retrieved under fire and sent to interpreters where they found to contain information of the highest possible value. A map included had CP locations for 12 divisions, 2 corps and 1 army. The entire setup of the SEVENTH ARMY including its strength, its mission and other valuable information was also included. (b) Captured enemy documents and records prove conclusively that the enemy had no difficulty in intercepting and quickly breaking down our Slidex messages. Extreme caution must be exercised to see that no message is sent by radio which would give ...... ......... .......... .......... .......... ......... artillery or air or to take evasive action.

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4. 4. ENEMY CAPABILITIES:

a. a. The enemy can continue to delay with the forces now in contact. b. b. He can defend on the best terrain possible between the present positions and the WEST WALL using

reinforcements brought up from nearby units. This he may do if he needs the additional time on which to man and prepare the defense of the WEST WALL in our zone.

c. c. He can counterattack using considerable infantry, a limited amount of armor, in an effort to split the corps drive towards his perimeter defense.

HALL G-2

G - 3 PERIODIC REPORT No. 91 Hq 30th Infantry Division

From: 120001B Sep 44 To : 122400B Sep 44 Place: (555366)

No. 91 MAPS: 1. 1. OUR FRONT LINES (Or most advanced elements): See overlay. 2. 2. LOCATION OF TROOPS: See overlay. 3. 3. INFORMATION OF ADJACENT UNITS AND SUPPORTING TROOPS: See overlay. 4. 4. WEATHER AND VISIBILITY: Weather - Clear. Visibility - Good. 5. 5. OUR OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD:

a. a. Inf. (1) (1) 117th Inf at 120300B Sep 44, moved by marching from its assembly area to cross on foot bridges

over the ALBERT CANAL and MEUSE RIVER. Regtl motors crossed on Inf support bridges. 1st and 2nd Bns advanced in column Bns via Routes “X” and “Y” to the N and NE toward Obj “C” (615470) meeting light resistance. 3d Bn in Div Res. 1st Bn crossed international boundary into Holland 121000B Sep 44. At 122000B Sep 44 units halted for the night, organized all around defense.

(2) (2) 119th Inf - At 120615B Sep 44, 1st and 3rd Bns abreast, with 2nd Bn in Regtl Res, continued attack to the N and NE with the mission of securing Objs “E” (660505) and “F” (685495). Bns met medium resistance and received Arty, 20mm, and small arms fire. At 1730 Tks of the 743d Tk Bn were sent to reinf the 1st Bn in pushing aside resistance. At 122000B Sep 44, 1st and 3d Bns reached positions as shown on overlay and dug in for the night.

(3) (3) 120th Inf continued active defense of its Regtl zone and protection of L flank of Div. A counter attack was repulsed by a Plat from Co “K” in the Vic of locks of the ALBERT CANAL. At close of the period preparation was being made to move to new assembly area on Div order.

(4) (4) 743d Tk Bn, less 1 Co, moved from assembly area across ALBERT CANAL and MEUSE RIVER to present assembly area shown on overlay prepared to assist the Div in its advance to the N and NE. “C” Co in support of 119th Inf.

(5) (5) 823TD Bn, less 1 Co, moved from assembly area across ALBERT CANAL and MEUSE RIVER to present assembly area shown on overlay prepared to assist the Div in its advance to the N and NE. “A” Co in support of 119th Inf

b. b. 105th Engr C Bn, less 3 Cos, Atach 4th Plat, Co “B”, 602d Engr Cam Bn, normal support. “A” Co support 117th Inf. “B” Co in support of 119th Inf, completed Inf support bridge across the ALBERT CANAL (534351) at 120330B Sep 44, and Inf support bridge across the MEUSE RIVER (552369) 121400B Sep 44. “C” Co supported 120th Inf.

c. c. (1) 30th Rcn Tr, Mecz, operating as OP teams on the L flank of the 120th Inf maintained contact with the 41st Inf (British). (2) (2) 113th Cav Gp, Mecz, protected the R and L flanks of the Div. Contact was maintained with VII Corps

on the S flank. Only light enemy resistance at numerous road blocks was met.

6. 6. COMBAT EFFICIENCY: Excellent. 7. 7. RESULT OF OPERATIONS: 30th Inf Div successfully crossed ALBERT CANAL and MEUSE RIVER on

Foot, Inf Support, and treadway bridges and continued to advance to the N and NE. At close of the period units had reached positions as shown on overlay.

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From: AFTER BATTLE REPORT Hq 30th Infantry Division G-3 Section 12 September 1944: During the period the Division continued crossing of combat elements over the ALBERT CANAL and the MEUSE RIVER and enlarged the bridgehead established 11 September in vicinity, VISE. The 120th Infantry continued to actively defend its portion of the Division sector. At 120330B a counterattack by one Company against the ALBERT CANAL locks was repulsed by one Platoon of Company K, and the entire enemy force of approximately eighty-five (85) man was killed or captured. At 121800B the Regiment was alerted to move on Division order and at and of period, 12 Sep 1944, was in position with Company A at MONTENAAKEN (K530495), Company B south of HEUKELUM at (K510470), Company C at (K525470), Company E at LANAYE (K560445), 2d Battalion, minus, at LAVA (K543445), and 3d Battalion northeast of the 2d at (K555455) prepared to move when directed. At 120615B the 119th Infantry, reinforced with Company C, 743d Tank Battalion, and Company A, 823d Tank Destroyer Battalion, in direct support continued its attack to the north and northeast with mission of seizing objectives in the vicinity of MEERSTRAAT at (K660505) and BEERTSENHOVEN at (K685495). The Regiment moved with 1st and 3d Battalions abreast and 2d Battalion following in reserve. Between 121130B and 121230B, the advance of both Battalions was held up along line (K600417) - (K580430) by 20mm and small arms fire. Resistance was overcome by employment of Cannon Company and artillery and by 121400B the Regiment continued its attack. The 3d Battalion moved forward without serious resistance, but the 1st Battalion again encountered heavy opposition. At 121730B one Platoon of tanks from Company C, 743d Tank Battalion was sent to assist 1st Battalion and with their reinforcement the Battalion began a rapid advance. At 121800B the Regiment received a limited objective from the Division and by 122030B had occupied the designated area and had organized defensive positions for the night with 1st Battalion southeast of BANHOLT at (K643450), 2d Battalion east of NOORBECK at (K660435), and the 3d Battalion southwest of NOORBECK at (K630425). Contact was made with 117th Infantry. The 117th Infantry, less 3d Battalion, moved at 120330B to cross ALBERT CANAL and MEUSE RIVER. Advance elements crossed by engineer ferry and main body crossed by foot bridge. Organic motors crossed by infantry support bridge at 122000B. After effecting crossing the Regiment continued in column of Battalions to seize objective vicinity EKKELRADE at (K615470). At 121000B the 1st Battalion crossed BELGIUM - HOLLAND FRONTIER. Moderate enemy resistance consisting of artillery, mortars and machine gun fire was encountered throughout the day. At 122000B on Division order the Regiment ceased its advance and occupied defensive position for the night with 1st Battalion southwest of LIBEEK at (K610450), and the 2d Battalion east of EYESDEN at (K580430), and 3d Battalion in Division Reserve north of FOURON le COMTE at (K605430). At 121800B the 743d Tank Battalion less Company C, moved from assembly area west of ALBERT CANAL to assembly area in vicinity (K565370), prepared to assist the Division in its advance to the north and northeast. Company C moved in support of the 119th Infantry, crossing MEUSE RIVER in vicinity LIEGE at 120500B. The 823d Tank Destroyer Battalion less Company A, moved from positions west of ALBERT CANAL to assembly areas across MEUSE RIVER and took up positions to give antitank protection to the Division. Company A, in direct support 119th Infantry, crossed MEUSE RIVER in vicinity LIEGE at 120515B. The 30th Division Artillery reinforced with 113th Field Artillery Battalion continued to support the Division attack to the northeast along east bank of MEUSE RIVER. 119th Field Artillery Group (963d, 967th, 978th Field Artillery Battalions attached 122300B. The 30th Reconnaissance Troop, Mechanized operated Out-post teams on left of 120th Infantry and maintained contact with 41st Infantry (British) on that flank. The 113th Cavalry Group, Mechanized, gave protection to right and left flanks of the Division and maintained contact with the VII Corps on Division right, south, flank. The 105th Engineer Combat Battalion, plus, continued to support the Division’s advance with normal engineer operation, Company A in support of the 117th Infantry removed numerous booby traps in vicinity (K605386) and from ditches along route of march. The Company cleared an enemy road block at (K580425). Roads in area were swept for mines. Company B in support of 119th Infantry completed infantry support bridge over ALBERT CANAL (K534351) at 120330B, and similar bridge over MEUSE RIM (K552369) at 121400B. The Company also prepared ford by-pass of bridge at (K583367). Company C in support of 120th Infantry completed foot bridge over MEUSE

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RIVER (K552367) at 120430B and conducted reconnaissance for and prepared to construct footbridge in vicinity (K553425). The 4th Platoon, Company B.. 602d Engineer Combat Battalion, continued normal camouflage duties. UNIT JOURNAL 117th Infantry Regiment 12 September 1944

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0030 1st Bn asks S-3 whether it is to hand carry equipment or wait until vehicles catch up. 0045 S-3 tells 1st Bn to hand carry its equipment. 0230 Capt Singleton asks G-3 whether the bridges are in - he is told that the foot bridge and the

infantry support bridges are in and that ones over the river are being worked upon. 0350 1st Bn states that it crossed the IP on time. 0530 Engr CO advises that the bridges over the river are not in and probably will not be ready for

use until noon. 0545 All Bns and Special Units notified that that part of March Order concerning all vehicles has

been cancelled. 0600 1st Bn reports that it is approaching PL #11. 0800 1st Bn states its leading elements at at Point “Q”. 0830 S-3 warns of mine field at PL’s 6 and 2. 0850 G-3 notifies S-3 that Regt will probably move across the bridge 1030. 0930 Time for crossing the bridge changed to 1200. 0940 S-2 tell G-2 that Regt’l Unit 1800 yds short of PL #12 and that mortar and small arms fire is

being rec’d. 0950 S-3 advises that he believes Regt’l unit is on PL #12 0955 S-2 tells G-2 that civilians have reported a Bn of enemy in the town at PL #12. 1000 S-2 states that if Regt’l Unit is on PL #12 we are now fighting in Holland. 1000 “A” Co reported to be in Holland - The 117th Inf are the 1st American trps to reach Holland. 1115 Departure time changed to 1500. 1150 Div QM inquires about shoe shortages and the general supply situation from Ex-O. 1152 G-3 asks Ex-O about the present disposition of our trps. 1233 Col Johnson asks that Arty Ln O report to him at his present location to adjust arty fire. 1235 Colonel Johnson tells CO 2nd Bn to move his Bn up on the left of the 1st Bn. 1400 Old CP closed. 1400 Enemy CP locations obtained from captured German maps fired upon. 1755 1 Message rec’d from 2nd Bn. 2 Message from Col Johnson to Co 119th Inf. 1930 New CP opened at Mesch, Holland, coordinates 588-425. 2230 Col Johnson to 3rd Bn Ex-O - If the overlay you sent us is correct you are not in the area

that has been assigned to the 3rd BN - Send 3rd Bn CO to CP as soon as possible. 2245 Div Ln O in CP with order for tomorrow - He advises that the 113th Cav has buttoned up for

the night. 2310 16th Regt of 1st Inf Div reported to be in Germany now - White flags are reported flying in

Aachen. 2345 Engrs say that they have closed into their area. 2345 3 Letter of Instruction rec’d from Div.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 119th Infantry Rgt On September 12, at 0645, after being in contact with the enemy all night the 1st Battalion lost contact and ....... ............ into Vise. The 3rd Battalion resume the advance and around 0800 reached its objective in the vicinity of Dalhem. At 0756 Division directed that the regiment continue to objective “E” and “F” with a halt on Phase Line 12 until the artillery could catch up. Shortly after 1000 movement was resumed with 1st Battalion of the left going through Longchamp and the 3rd Battalion on the right moving through Bombaye toward Warsage. The 2nd Battalion picked up “G” Company and moved on behind the 1st battalion. At 1125 the 1st battalion was near Fouron-le- Comte receiving 20mm and rifle fire, and by 1245 they had pushed one company into town. The 3rd Battalion reached Warsage on Phase Line 12 without encountering resistance, but dug in enemy and anti-tank guns were

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encountered on the ridge to the east. At 1343 1st battalion sent two companies around to the right to outflank the town and 3rd Battalion was ordered to resume forward movement and keep in contact with the 1st Battalion. At a short distance from Phase Line 8 both units were to hold up and wait for the artillery to cross the river. After various postponements the vehicular bridge was completed around 1245 but several mishaps slowed movement and the regimental combat trains and weapon carriers and supporting artillery did not get across until well into the afternoon. Until 1536 the 1st battalion was held up around Fouron-le- Comte. At 1555 the 3rd battalion advanced to the nose to the east of Warsage and pushed past the right flank of the line established by the 1st battalion. They continued on until 1000 yards inside the Dutch border near Noorbeek when they were ordered to dig in on Phase Line 10 in contact with the 117th Infantry. They were, however, held up 500 yards short of this point, near Terlinden. Tanks were sent to help the 1st battalion and the 2nd Battalion was instructed to mop up behind them. From 1830 on more or less steady progress was made by the 1st battalion until they dug in in the vicinity of Banholt. The 2nd battalion went into assembly area near Inheer at 2020. The C.P. closed into the chateau at Altembrouck at 2030. During the day 3 were killed, 27 wounded, 1 was missing and 56 prisoners were taken. From: UNIT HISTORY 120th Infantry Regiment First part missing Results: 76 Captured 10 Killed 6 Wounded (taken to rear that night) 4 Wounded (died during day) 96 Total. Not one man escaped. All accounted for. The 10 wounded men could not be retrieved during daylight, since the enemy commanded the road along the bank of the Meuse River which ran parallel to and in close proximity to the canal, being some 100 yards away at this point. They were evacuated at nightfall and out of the 10, four died during the daylight hours. In addition to intense enemy fire, the pitiful cries for aid during the day did not make the occupation of the locks any more pleasant for our men. At 2045 on this day, the 3rd Battalion stopped a civilian who was trying to get through our lines to Maastricht. He was released after showing a paper signed by our Division Commander which stated that the city must clean out the Germans or our men would have to take the town. During the day, a woman operating a German Radio was frequently heard apparently describing our troop movements. Our observation posts, located on the heights of Fort Eben Emael, (which was reminiscent of the situation at Mortain, France), reported enemy reserves moving south to meet the attack of the 117th and 119th Infantry Regiments. Artillery fire was directed on them which totally disorganized one group of 150 enemy. Some were seen to be blown into the air, others fled individually in all directions. Approximately 30 finally succeeded in banding together and retreating to the north but, again our artillery was effective and it is doubtful if any escaped. Enemy mine fields in the vicinity of the locks were laid out in regular patterns and were extensive. This was the first time we had found mine fields of this type and it indicated that the enemy had been preparing for defense or withdrawal from the area for some time. The 2nd Battalion having released Company “F” to the 1st battalion and Company “G” to the 3rd Battalion, and having received Company “A” and Company “K” in exchange, remained in position under Corps Control. From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 743rd Tank Battalion 12 Sept 44 - The forward echelon of the 743rd Tank Battalion moved to a new area across the Albert canal and the Meuse River. Route taken was through Liege. Rcn. Platoon moved at 0330 hours with “C” Company, to lead them to their new area. The assault gun platoon fired 12 rounds toward enemy artillery at 0934 hours. Fired battery 2 rounds at enemy Infantry twice during morning with good results reported, and also very effective tree bursts. At 1225 hours, Assault gun platoon fired battery 2 rounds at chateau with effective results. Fired on enemy horse drawn artillery at 1425, 36 rounds expended, with good effects and one direct hit. The assault platoon continued firing until after 2100 hours at enemy concentrations in woods and loading supplies. Enemy activity stopped. At 2200 hours, “B” Company was attached to 117th Infantry Regiment. “C” Company joined the 119th Infantry regiment at 0730 hours at Argentan (560390). From there they moved North of Vise. 1st Platoon, “C” Company joined the 1st Battalion, 119th Infantry Regiment, in the vicinity of 618420, and at 1700 hours crossed the International boundary

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into Holland. When the column began to move out of Mheer (630440), the lead tank was fired on by a bazooka gunner, who missed, and the infantry destroyed the bazooka gunner. The infantry moved out to its next objective while the 1st platoon of “C” Company held the roads in the town, being unable to move forward due to shortage of gasoline and darkness. The 2nd platoon “C” Company, was held in reserve and passed the day without incident. The 3rd platoon, “C” Company, pushed on the East of the 1st platoon and gave flank protection. “C” Company bivouacked in the vicinity of 630420. Service Company carried on their usual duties. From: UNIT HISTORY 967th FA Battalion The reconnaissance party did not move at 0700 but at 1105 the Bn CO received a new “goose egg” and permission to use an unlimited party for the reconnaissance. The reconnaissance was completed but the new positions were not occupied today. The Survey Officer made a flash base by using the established OP’s. However, the base was too short and the reference point too close to make the base satisfactory. The Gp CO directed the Bn CO to prepare for a reconnaissance across the ALBERT CANAL and MEUSE RIVER. The weather was brisk but very comfortable in the sun. The Bn fired 1 volley at an Inf. CP at (62954395). “A” OP observed Inf in the vicinity (60504436) and began to adjust on them. The mission was not completed because the target disappeared. The most amusing incident of the day goes something like this: while the Bn was training in the States and in England there was a standing joke concerning inspections and requirements from higher headquarters, one of these – that it was probable, that in the thick of the battle, higher headquarters would call and direct an underwear count. And at 1705 today this actually happened. The Bn was in the “middle” of a fire mission when the Gp S-4 called for the Bn to submit an estimate for the winter underwear needed. Bn expended 16 rounds of ammunition during the 24 hour period. FIELD ORDER No. 23 Headquarters CC ”A”, 2nd Armd Div.

Hq CC”A”, 2 AD APO 252 In the Field 122345B Sept 44

FO #23 MAPS: GSGS: 4040, France & Belgium, 1/50,000 1. a. Current G-2, 2nd Armd Div Estimate. b. CC”B”, 2nd Armd Div operates on right of CC”A”. 11th Armd Div (British) operates on left. 2. a. CC”A”, 2nd Armd Div attacks 130630B Sept 44 to clear enemy from Div zone N of ALBERT Canal. b. Troops:

82nd Rcn Bn 14th AFA Bn 66th Armd Regt (-1st & 3rd Bn) D Btry, 195 AAA Bn w/1 Plat, Btry B w/Co A, 702nd TD Bn atchd 467 AAA Bn atchd.

3rd Bn, 66th AR (-1 Co) w/Co F, Co C, 17th Engr Bn, w/Co A, 41st AIR & 1 Plat, Co A, 17th Engr Bn 17th Engr Bn (-2 Plats) atchd

atchd Co A, 48th Med Bn 2nd Bn, 41st AIR (-1 Co) w/Co G, 66th AR & 1 Plat, Co A, 17th Engr Bn atchd 3. a. 82nd Rcn Bn move 130630B Sept 44. Maintain contact between 2nd Bn, 41st AIR & 3rd Bn, 66th AR. Protect left (N) flank CC”A”. Maintain contact with 11th Armd Div (Br) on left. Rcn along left (N) flank of CC”A”. Co D in reserve to be committed only on order from this headquarters. b. 3rd Bn, 66th AR (-1 Co) Reinf, move at 130600B Sept 44 over route indicated (see ovly), attack and seize successive objectives shown. Upon reaching objective 5, consolidate prepared to release Co F, 41st AIR and to support attack of 2nd Bn, 41st AIR, reinf on objective 6. c. 2nd Bn, 41st AIR (-1 Co) Reinf, attack at 130630B Sept 44, seize successive objectives shown. Upon reaching objective 4, consolidate prepared to take over Co F, 41st AIR and to attack to seize and secure objective 6. d. 66th AR (-2 Bns) w/Co A, 702nd TD atchd, remain in present location in CC”A” Reserve, prepared to move

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on 30 minutes notice. e. 14th AFA Bn w/Div Arty, 2nd Armd Div in general support, support the action of CC”A”. Fire harrassing and interdicting fires during night 12 - 13 Sept 44. Fire 20 minutes preparations on objective 1 from 0610B to 0630B Sept 13, 1944. f. D Btry, 195 AAA Bn w/...... 1 Plat, Btry B, 467 AAA Bn atchd, support 14th AFA Bn, Maint Co, 66th AR & Sevr Co, 66th AR. g. Co C, 17th Engr Bn w/Co A, 17th Engr Bn (-2 Plats) atchd, secure bridge over ALBERT canal at K275664. h. Co A, 48th Med Bn support action of CC”A”. 4. No change. 5. a. Current SOI, 2nd Armd Div in effect.. b. CP, CC”A”, moves 130600B Sept 44 to K328676, thereafter follows axis of 2nd Bn, 41st AIR (-) Reinf.

COLLIER Comdg.

MEMORANDUM Hq 2nd Armored Division

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMORED DIVISION Office of the Division Commander

APO 252 12 September 1944

MEMORANDUM TO : CO, 99th Inf. Bn.

1. The 99th Sep. Inf. Bn. has been attached to the 2nd Armd Div. by the CG, XIX Corps, effective this date.

2. You will entruck your battalion at once for immediate movement to the area of the 2nd Armd. Div. 3. 32 Trucks from the 2nd Armd Div. will be used to assist you in the march.

HARMON Cmdg

OFFICIAL: JENNA G-3

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 2nd Armored Division 10 to 12 Sep: During this 3-day period, 2d Armd Div consolidated its positions in the HASSELT, BELGIUM area. Infantry and reconnaissance units patrolled and outposted the ALBERT Canal and areas on both sides of the canal. Div Arty placed heavy concentrations of fire on targets of opportunity, including enemy infantry east and north of the Canal and footbridges over the canal. Fires were called for adjusted by ground observers with 82d Armd Rcn Bn, with infantry units, and by air OP’s. 31 Div Arty concentrations were fired during the period. Interdiction fire was placed on roads east of MAASTRICHT, HOLLAND. Several missions were fired in support of reconnaissance by 82d Armd Rcn Bn from BEERINGEN to points south and east across the ALBERT canal on 11 and 12 Sep. All other units engaged in maintenance and reorganization. Both combat commands patrolled roads and areas in their sectors of the Div zone, cleaning out enemy infantry which infiltrated by night across the ALBERT Canal. 3d Bn 41st AIR was relieved from Div Res and attached to CC “B” on 11 Sep, when the Div Zone was extended southeast. A large enemy unit was discovered by 3d Bn, 41st AIR in woods northwest of STEVOORT. Reinforced by a light tank platoon and one company of infantry, the battalion destroyed the entire enemy group. Mopping up of the area was completed on 13 Sep. Co C of 82d Armd Rcn Bn crossed the Albert Canal at first light 11 Sep in the British sector,

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followed by Cos B and D. Patrols received mortar and artillery, as well as small arms fire. Operations extended east and south after the patrols crossed the canal. Elements reached a general line along the railroad running north from HASSELT and occupied ZONHOVEN on 11 Sep. Patrols applied pressure east and south on 12 Sep along the HASSELT - ZONHOVEN road and continued to do so until CC “A” launched its attack on 13 Sep. From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “A” September 12th the Company moved north by way of ZONHOVEN, cutting east on trail two miles north of ZONHOVEN and proceeded to the north south road running through GRUITRODE - OPGLABBEEK and ASCH. The mission was to cover the gap between the British and the Americans maintaining liaison with the British and pushing south to ascertain the enemy east-west main line of resistance. The 2nd platoon moved due east to a point in the woods 1 mile north of OPBLABBEEKER EAVEL then north to GRUITRODE. The 1st platoon moved as the advance guard of the Company across the artillery range to GRCATE HEIDE. The 3rd platoon the moved north then east coming into the main north south road at MUISENDIJK, maintaining contact with the British until the British moved up due north leaving the company a very large sector. This platoon then moved through GRUITRODE south toward OPGLABBEEK. In the woods about 3 kilometers from OPGLABBEEK, they encountered a road block consisting of trees across the road for several hundred yards. Although the road block was defended by small arms and at least one anti-tank gun, the platoon was able to reconnoiter a way around the right side of the road block. As OPGLABBEEK was held in some strength at the time, the platoon was ordered to return to the north side of the road block and remain in observation. Mines were used extensively around this road block as the enemy was still defending that area and the area between the road block and OPGLABBEEK was a precarious position to be in. The 1st platoon and Company Headquarters moved due east from SEBASTOPOL to GRUITRODE. The Company CP was established 1 mile north of GRUITRODE with the 1st platoon running patrols north to the vicinity of BREE to contact the British. The 2nd platoon went into a defensive position on the road running east out of GRUITRODE toward NEERBLABEEK, The 3rd platoon remained in position at the road block between OPGLABBEEK and GRUITRODE. A German patrol infiltrated into GRUITRODE that night engaging a patrol from the 2nd platoon. The Germans left two dead. An occasional round of artillery fell near the 2nd platoon during the night. One man, Private Jimboy, was slightly wounded. From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “B” 12 September 1944: Company CP remained in area at K281718 until 1130B at which time it moved out to new area at K430673. 1st platoon moved out at 0700B to reconnoiter road from ZONHOVEN to GENCK. The platoon received heavy artillery and mortar fire at MOLEN, and was forced to withdraw to take up a favorable defensive position. The platoon then joined the 2nd platoon in outposting ZONHOVEN for the night. 2nd platoon moved out at 0700B to same position it had reached 11 September. It again drew enemy small arms, anti-tank and rifle fire. Remained in observation and layed 75mm, mortar and artillery fire on the enemy positions. The platoon returned to ZONHOVEN at 1800B and outposted the town with the help of the1st platoon. 3rd Platoon moved out at noon to help reinforce “D” Company in attack on north bank of canal. The platoon moved to ZONHOVEN acting as rear guard for the tank company. Returned to Company area at 2000B. (Weather - Fair and Cool.) From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “C” On the 12th of September reconnaissance patrols were kept active until 1200B. At 1430B “D” Company Light tanks pushed from the road junction south of ZENHOVEN with the scout section of the 3rd platoon acting as dismounted security for the tanks. The Battalion Commander remained with the tank Company during the fight and coordinated the movements of the reconnaissance platoon with the movement of the tanks. Soon after the tanks moved on the woods, 2nd and 3rd platoon of “C” Company moved to the right and west of the road. The 3rd platoon had the area between the highway and railroad with the 2nd platoon to the west of the railway. The two platoons moved off the highway at about 1500B and silenced the German 81mm mortars with their assault guns, then proceeded to clear the area of German troops. This was a very difficult task in as much as the Germans had to be taken individually from their foxholes. 83 prisoners were taken by the two platoons and by 1930B the area west of ZONHOVEN-HASSELT highway, from ZONHOVEN to the railway junction north of the canal had been cleared. The 1st platoon worked the area east of the highway, but were held on the secondary road in this area by road blocks and dismounted men. Wounded in action on September 12th were: Private First Class Bowen, Sergeant Pfeifer, Sergeant Gleason, Private Arndt, Corporal Nichols, Private Wathey, Private Voris, Corporal Woodard, Corporal Terry. Private Bowen was wounded when he and Corporal Terry went into a home to clear it of snipers. The German snipers laid under a blanket and threw a grenade that wounded Bowen and Terry. Terry carried Bowen to safety, then returned and killed the German with two hand grenades. After seeing that Bowen was properly cared for, terry had his wound dressed and continued to fight. At 2100B the Battalion was relieved of the mission by elements of the 41st Armored Infantry and returned to the WERGERSBERG Woods for the night.

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From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “D” On September 12th at 0630B the 3rd platoon moved out to secure a pontoon bridge built by the 17th Armored Engineers about 3 miles south of BERINGEN. At 1200B the Company received the mission of attacking German position north of HASSELT, secure cross roads north of ALBERT Canal and then move east. The three platoons were relieved of their missions and rejoined the Company in an assembly area about 3 miles south of Company bivouac about 1330B. At 1445B the 1st, 2nd and 3rd platoons moved out on their new mission. They had air and artillery support. Company “C” was operating on the flanks. Almost immediately small arms fire and anti-tank fire was met. The company lost one tank and had two more hit. One man was injured and one man wounded. The lead platoon was finally stopped at a mine field covered by anti-tank fire. It was dark when the mines had be lifted and the company was relieved by elements of Combat Command “B” and moved to bivouac at 305698. The Company took ten prisoners, killed 7 enemy. Destroyed one bus, and one truck, three sedans and seven anti-tank guns. From: UNIT HISTORY 66th Armored Regiment 12 September Reconnaissance Company secured a bridge across the Albert canal. “G” company was attached to the 2nd Battalion, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment. The Regiment remained in the area for the night. From: REPORT OF OPERATIONS (1 - 30 September 1944) Hq 66th Armd Regt 12 Sept 1944 Day spent in maintenance, sweeps of areas continued. Rcn Co, 66th AR., secured bridge across ALBERT CANAL. At 1530B, 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt, was put under control of CC"A" and alerted for movement. At 1600B Co F, 41st AIR and a Platoon, Co A, 17th Engr Bn, was attached to 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt and Co G released from 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt and attached to 2nd Bn, 41st Armd Inf Regt. Orders were changed on movement status and 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt, as now constituted remained in present area for the night. Orders were received from CC"A" at 2400B (see Annex #7) assigning mission to 3rd Bn, Armd Regt, of continuing advance along axis and seizing successive objectives as indicated. 66th Armd Regt (-2 Bns with Co A, 702 TD Bn attached) to remain in present area in CC"A" Reserve and move on 30 minute notice. From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 67th Armd Rgt 12 Sept.: Regiment with same troops remained in bivouac. One medium tank Co. 2nd Bn 67th placed on one hour alert, and one light tank platoon placed on 20 minute alert for possible movement, to the front to support 3rd Bn 41st Inf. engaged vicinity ALBERT CANAL. Received orders at 1638B to send the light tank plat. up to 3rd Bn 41st. Also the medium tank company was to follow as soon as possible. Tanks arrived to support Infantry at 2215B, but were not engaged. C.O. alerted Forward C.P. to be ready to move out at 0800B 13 Sept. in the event of operations by our tanks supporting the Infantry. From: MONTHLY OPERATIONAL REPORT Hq 41st Armd Inf Regt September 12th: Reconnaissance officer, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment, contacted British 2nd Army at (K885617), two miles North of Louvain, Belgium, and British 30th Corps, two miles North of Diest, Belgium. Contact was also maintained with Combat Commands “A” and “B” during the day. Security of Division Reserve area was maintained during period, by all units of Division Reserve. Regimental Rcn Officer, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment, contacted 82nd Armored Rcn battalion during period. All units of Division Reserve continued maintenance of vehicles and equipment and preparation for further operations.

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OPERATION REPORT 17th Armd Engr Bn ( see 13 September ) From: OPERATION REPORT Company “A” 17th Armd Engr Bn 12 September: 1st Plat was attached to 2nd Bn, 41st Inf and 3rd Plat remained attached to 3rd Bn, 66th A.R. Both platoons had mission to cross the canal. Co Hq and 2nd Plat moved out at 1900 hrs. and proceeded to cross the canal where they were given the mission to secure the East side of the bridge. No resistance encountered. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn 7 - 12 September: Crossed from France to Belgium 1150B 7 September. Continued to support attack to objective near Stevortschen, Belgium. 1st, 2nd & 3rd Plats used on road blocks in this area through 12 September 1944. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “C” 17th Armd Engr Bn 12 September: In same area. Platoons relieved from road blocks, rejoined Co, and departed from area wi th Command H/T, Engr H/T and 6-Ton, to bridge the Albert Canal in the vicinity of N. Hasselt. Bridge started 0805, completed 1100 hrs ( See Annex No. 1 for additional information ). 1st Plat maintained bridge night of 12 - 13 September. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “D” 17th Armd Engr Bn 12 September: Removed nine (9) #1 Teller mines from R.R. crossing at 325645 (HASSELT). Co, less 3rd Plat, held north end of bridge at STOCKREGE. OPERATION REPORT Company “E” 17th Armd Engr Bn ( no entry ) S - 2 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division 12 September 1944

Time

in

Time out

Serial No.

Time INCIDENTS, MESSAGES, ORDERS, ETC

1 7 Sept Fr SHEAF: intelligence notes #26 2 8 Sept Fr 2/41: S-2 report #94 3 9 Sept Fr 2/41 AIR: S-2 report #95 4 10 Sept Fr 2/41 AIR: S-2 report #96 5 11 Sept Fr 2/41 AIR: S-2 report #97 6 11 Sept Fr Co G 66: Letter subject list of E.M. and officers captured at Tessy sur Vire 7 11 Sept Fr 2 AD: G-2 journal 11 Sept 24 to 46 8 11 Sept Fr 14 FA: Record of concentrations fired fr 111550B to 121750B 9 0630 Fr 82 Rcn to 2 AD: Enemy counter attacked during night in its arty support and

drove our elements from town of Zonhoven 3468. Our elements advancing into town at 0600B. This is only point of contact at present

10 0635 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Have retaken town of Zonhoven 11 0728 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Crossings at 275664 have been secured by our patrol 12 Fr 3 Bn 66 AR: Enemy casualty report

0830 13 112300 Fr 2 AD: G-2 periodic report #86 0830 14 11 Sept Fr 2 AD: terrain study Hasselt area

15 0840 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Road block at 325646 defended by dug in infantry with MG, bazookas, mortars and arty

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16 1011 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: 2 PWs surrendered this morning they were from 39th Fusilier 453rd Inf Div. PWs were taken in vic of 333665 in civilian clothing

17 1045 Fr 2 AD: Pick up maps at map depot 18 1110 Fr 195 AAA: Single unidentified aircraft over area at frequent intervals during

night 11 - 12 Sept. One HE 111 over area at 120715B on observation mission about 3000 feet

19 1200 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Enemy strong point in woods at 3656 with MGs and bazookas and SP gun on tank

20 1410 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol 800 yds NW of point LC no contact but report LC held by enemy patrol at 494775. Rpt defended road block there and the patrol has destroyed TD. Enemy OP at 395678 with mortar fire

1335 21 1215 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Enemy defenses and mail line of resistance unchanged 22 1235 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Bridge across canal at 275664 has been completed 23 1245 Fr 2 AD: Civilians rpt AP mines along rd SE of Trichterheide at K339628. Mines

connected by wires 24 1320 To All Units: Password noon today to noon tomorrow 25 1355 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Air support has your operative radio at present. We called for

air support on woods at 365675 however planes would not bomb as they rptd the tanks in woods had yellow panels on. No friendly vehicles in woods

26 1400 Fr ? : Overlay showing enemy strong point 27 1545 Fr 2 AD: Bridge at 565520 and bridge N of it OK but set for demolition. According

to civ rpts Bilsen is being shelled OLR OP rpts SA fire from 525555. Bridge at 550573 OK. 65 FA fired on small arms

28 1545 Fr 2 AD: Civilians rtp arty positions at 5250 29 1645 Fr 2 AD: A fire at 529533. Also on enemy working party at 509555 30 1800 Fr Maint Co: Negative S-2 rpt 31 1800 Fr Rcn 66: S-2 rpt #92 32 1830 Fr 14 FA: S-2 report #95 33 1900 Fr 14 FA: Enemy casualty report 34 1930 Fr 14 FA: S-2 report #96 35 2000 Fr 14 FA: Enemy casualty report 36 2200 To G-2 2AD: S-2 report #90 with PWI report #30 37 2300 Fr 2 AD: G-2 periodic report #87

S - 3 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division 12 September 1944

Time in

Time out

Serial No.

Time dated

INCIDENTS, MESSAGES, ORDERS, ETC Action taken

0900 1 FR: 2 AD - Ltr of inst (w/ovly) F 0900 2 FR: 66 AR - S-3 Rpt (w/ovly) F 1400 3 FR: 2/66 - S-3 Rpt #87 F 1740 4 FR: 2 AD - FO #24 (w/ovly) F 1740 5 FR: A/17 - Engr rpt #103 F 1740 6 FR: 2/41 - S-3 Rpts #102, 101, 100, 99 F 1900 7 FR: 66 AR - Hq 66 AR - K237615 Sv/66 at K229614 F

8 CP CC”A” moved out 1930B 9 CP closed in new area K302704 at 2115B F 10 Ey plan flew over CC area 0730B. Fired on by D/195 AAA

personnel

2215 11 Verbal orders issued. G - 3 JOURNAL 2nd Armored Division

NO IN OUT MESSAGE 803 120020 FR CCA AND DIV RES: All quiet 804 120110 FR CCA AND DIV RES: All quiet 805 120130 TO XIX CORPS: G-3 periodic report #24 and letter of instructions dated 112100B Sept

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44 806 120215 FR CCA: Enemy shelling area N of HASSELT and S of ALBERT CANAL 807 120310 FR CCA AND DIV RES: All quiet 808 120315 FR XIX CORPS: Sitrep #191 as of 112400, 2nd AD, 82nd Rcn Bn vic K350640, CCA,

CCB, CP’s no change. 30th Div 117th and 119th Inf no change, 1/119 560385 - 572383, 2/119 completing movement across MEUSE RIVER, 3/119 572378 - 580366, 120th vic 535460 CO E hold town LANAYE K562445. 113th Cav Gp elms at 560375, 580370, 615370, 600340. CP 565355, all elements in contact with enemy. Task Force Rau no change.

809 120410 FR DIV RES: Negative report 810 120415 FR CCA: All quiet 811 120430 FR 195TH: S-3 report #102

FR 62ND: S-3 report #94 FR 65TH: S-3 report #98

812 120515 FR DIV RES AND CCA: All quiet 813 120620 FR DIV RES: All quiet 814 120620 TO HQ CMDT: Section all up and alert 815 120745 FR CCA: Anti-aircraft fired at ME 109, no hits scored. 816 120810 FR 82ND RCN: Enemy counterattacked during night with arty support and drove our

elements from town of ZONHOVEN 3468. Our elements are advancing into town at 0600B.

817 120810 FR 82ND RCN: Have retaken town of ZONHOVEN. 818 120830 FR 41ST: 3rd Bn, 41st closed in new CCB area at 120810B 819 120847 TO ALL CONCERNED: Troop list, 11 Sept, 2nd AD 820 120847 FR L FLANK (Maj Bassinor): 11th Armd Div situation unchanged 821 120847 FR L FLANK (Maj Bassinor): 11th Armd Div planing to clean out HECHTEL 3483 and

consolidate. BOURG LEPOLD reported taken by 8th Armd Bde. Expect Gds Armd & 11th Armd to consolidate in place for a spell.

822 120920 FR DIV ARTY: 62nd Armd FA Bn at K498507 823 120930 FR G-2: G-2 periodic report #86, 112300B.

Tactical study of terrain 824 121030 TO XIX CORPS: Sitrep #20, 12100B 825 121110 FR XIX CORPS: G-2 periodic report #97, 120600B. 2 copys 826 121110 TO C/S: Corps G-2 periodic report #97 827 121103 FR 17TH ENGR: Bridge across ALBERT CANAL completed as of 121103B. 828 121125 FR 30TH DIV: G-3 periodic report #90, 120200B 829 121125 FR 11TH BR ARMD (Maj Bassinor): Ele of Gds Armd now at 3799. No other changes

since last report 830 121200 FR 30TH DIV(Capt Bacon): 1/117th 585400, 2nd Bn is across river, 3rd Bn is crossing

river. 1/119th vic 570393, 2nd Bn 563370, 3rd Bn 580375 831 121200 FR DIV ARTY: 65th FA at477532, 14th FA at 282618, 62nd FA at 498507, 92nd FA at

485518. 832 121205 FR 11TH ARMD (Maj Bassinor): BOURG LEPOLD finally occupied by the Belgian

Bde. Ey pocket in HECHTEL 3383 still delaying us. What are 2 AD doing today and where will CP be at 1500 hrs. Request answer.

833 121215 TO 11TH ARMD DIV ATT LN OFF: this div will not move today. CO will remain same. 834 121230 FR 11TH ARMD DIV (Maj Bassinor): 11th AS has elements patrolling S to our

boundary. Fwd ele at 4785 and 4580 facing E. CP 11th AD will move to 3784. 11th AD requests 2 AD situation and intention. Please expedite.

835 121255 TO LN OFF (Maj Bassinor) 11TH BR ARMD DIV: CP remains same. 82nd Rcn across canal – held to roads – delaying type resistance. Furthest advance 4268. Rcn 67th and 1st Bn 41st at canal line. Nothing further now.

836 121330 FR XIX CORPS: request to XIX Corps for attachment 99th Sep. Inf Bn to this Div turned down. Bn now under Army control. Corps has requested its release to them today and will then consider our request. I believe it will be O’ked. G-3 XIX Corps will notify me.

837 121330 FR AG: Special Orders #203, Hqs, 2 AD Ltr, Sub; Qualifications of General & Field Grade Officers: Re – Lt. Col Joseph C. Focht.

838 121330 FR FUSA: Intelligence Instructions #23, 28 July 44. 839 121345 FR LN OFF XIX CORPS: Jahwack front enemy lines run generally S DAHLEN (K3836)

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- K6735 -K8027 - K7894 - K7101 840 121345 FR LN OFF XIX CORPS: 3rd AD (-) 800272 - 830310. CP 3rd AD 785271. TFH 3 AD

795335. CCA 3rd AD 745300. 47th Inf Regt 660260. 9th Inf Div 665215. 60th Inf Regt 611760. 39th Inf Regt 688175. 16th Inf Regt 710325. 18th Inf regt 680855. 119th Inf Regt 565102 VISE. 3/120th 540460, 2/120th 561445, 1/120th 515475.

841 121515 TO 82ND RCN: You are attached CCA as of now. Get in touch with them at once. 842 121515 TO DIV ARTY: Support attack CCA with artillery preparation. 14th FA to support the

attack. Coordinate with CCA. 843 121345 FR LN OFF XIX CORPS: Fr 30th Div; 3-109’s shot down today, one 592448, 1 behind

enemy lines, other not located. 1 behind enemy lines allied markings on wing, swastika on tail. Fwd ele 113th Cav Sq 570373 - 757368. 125 Cav Sq 590334 - 482337 - CP 585330. 40 mm at 568388 plus 75 dsmtd men and duel purpose 20 mm 1840B EUPEN (K8027) clear of enemy. Mining roads VII Corps sector more intense. V Corps line runs generally W of the German border in area N of the ATTERT River. From 113th Cav Gp; 250 dsmtd ey w/bazookas 572375 moving S1856. Master troops crossed into Germany and are 8 miles N of TREIR - 2100B. Civilian rpt BOLLAND K604310 roads mined and road blocked DAHLEM K580369, ey under command Lt. Col ? 88mm covering road leading to RICHELT K5637 and VISE K5639.

844 121535 TO DIV ARTY: Approx 200 enemy w/mortars crossing the canal at this location 527550. Have liaison plane pick them up right away from the air and put all the arty on them you can.

845 121540 Fr 17TH ENGR BN: S-3 report #94, 122200B. 846 121540 FR FUSA: Memorandum, 9 Sept. Ltr, Sub: Carriage of classified documents to and

from NW Europe. 847 121615 TO ALL CONCERNED: Field Order #24, 121600B Ept. 848 121640 FR 1ST INF DIV: FO #46, 110900B

Boundary overlay, 110200B 849 121650 FR LN OFF 30TH DIV (Capt Bacon): 117th, 1st Bn 585418, 2nd Bn 583398, 3rd Bn

575397. 1/119th 600415, 2nd Bn 590400, 3rd Bn 614393, 120th no change. Custom CP moving to vic 555377.

850 121540 FR LN OF 11TH ARMD (Maj Bassinor): BREE 5084 clear at 1100B. BOCHOLT, N of BREE clear at 1120B. Friendly patrol at 465914. 11th AD request information for 11 AD

851 121540 FR XIX CORPS: Sitrep 192, as of 121200B; 30th Inf Div; 1/117th 590422, 2nd Bn 583413, 1/119th 590405, 2nd Bn 586401, 3 rd Bn 600389. 120th Inf no change. 120th repelled counterattack vic junction ALBERT*WILHELM CANALS repulsed atck, captured 73 men and 1 officer. 1st BN 117th Inf entered HOLLAND at 1000B. CP 30th Div, 593387

852 121720 FR FUSA: AAA Sitrep #38, 100600B. AAA Sitrep #39, 110600B

853 121805 FR FUSA: Change #4 to FUSA Administrative Order #5. 854 122030 FR 82ND: S-3 report #92 and #93 855 122045 FR 48TH: Monthly after action report, August

FR 41ST: Monthly after action report, August FR 1ST DIV: Situation overlay as of 112100B Sept FR HQ 2AD: GO #40

856 122130 FR 195TH: S-3 report #103 FR DIV ARTY: Situation overlay & proposed positions. FR CCB: S-3 report #99 FR 142ND SIG: S-3 report #100 FR DIV RES: S-3 report #103

857 122330 TO AG: Operations Memo #5, for distribution. 858 122330 TO XIX CORPS: Sitrep #21, 122200B. 859 122230 TO XIX CORPS: G-3 periodic report #25, 122400B.

From: SUMMARY OF EVENTS 99th Infantry Battalion (Separate) During the period of 8 thru 12 September, the battalion conducted motorized and foot patrols thru all woods in the vicinity of Valenciennes and Mons. 17 prisoners of war were turned in to the Prisoner of War Cage during the period.

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From: REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) ( see 18 September ) ANNEX 4 From: UNIT HISTORY 16th Infantry Regiment (1st Inf Div) The regiment moved from the vicinity of Herve and, with Company C, 16th Infantry, leading, the outer defenses of the Siegfried Line were cracked, and the 16th Infantry, 1st U.S. Infantry Division, was the first Infantry unit to enter Germany. Enemy opposition was severe and casualties were sustained in the Aachen State Forest when pillboxes and antitank defenses were encountered.

Wednesday 13 SEPTEMBER 1944: G-2 DOCUMENTS & MESSAGES HQ XIX CORPS 13 SEPTEMBER 1944

JOURNAL COVER SHEET

Reports, Periodic Reports, Documents, Team Reports, Facsimiles (pertinent items to be listed on Journal Sheet), Visitors, Events, etc. received. Time Recd

From

No. of Copies

Type of Report

Disposition

0200 2nd AD 2 G-2 Per Rpt No, 84 W/R + VII C 0200 502 CIC Det 1 Weekly CI Rpt 12 Sep XIX CIC Det 0200 502 CIC Det 1 Memorandum on Suspect 11 Sep 0630 FUSA 1 Violations of Geneva Convention File 0712 PI 20 1 Photo Interpretation Spot Report File 0850 G/3 1 G-3 Periodic Rpt #98 File 0855 Engineer 1 Situation Rpt # 91 File 1010 V Corps 1 G-2 Periodic # 96 W/R 1045 VIII Corps 1 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 85 W/R 1045 FUSA 6 G-2 Periodic Rpt 94 See file copy 1045 FUSA 6 G-2 Estimate # 26 See file copy 1045 12th AA 1 S-2 Periodic Rpt # 96 W/R 1045 12th AA 1 Weekly …………. # 5 File 1045 FUSA 1 PWI Rpt O/B 1115 30th 1 G-2 Periodic # 87 1126 Arty 1 FO # 18 1200 IPN 39 1 Consolidated PW Rpt 1st Army 1 Engr Intell Memo # 26 File …10 1st Inf 1 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 85 W/R 1530 VII Corps 1 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 99 W/R 1730 30th Div 1 Amendment to G-2 Periodic Rpt # 87 W/R – File 1800 V Corps 1 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 97 w/3 incls W/R – file 1815 FUSA 4 SHAEF G-2 Wkly INTSUM no 25 1 – 2AD, 30ID, 113 1815 FUSA 3 Photos of Rhine, Aachen etc (28 photos) 1ea , 2AD, 30 Div 0050 12 AAA 1 G-3 Periodic # 12 File

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master G-2 Air Time

Rec’d 130040 Sept

Person Calling Sgt Haverluck Rec’d by Maj Graybill

40

Tac/R 0900 K5233 to K5652 – All bridges over Meuse R out

K5653 – Road and RR bridge intact K5653 to K8299 – All bridges out

1115 F0414 – 1 tank parked possibly dug in

F2827 – 1 train w/10 passenger cars S F4613 – 1 train w/15 cars going S

1140 K5652 – Road and RR bridges intact

K6472 – Road bridge intact 3 road bridges intact at K6164, K7790, K7893 K6269 – Road bridge out K6479 – K6780 – K7084 – Road bridges out K7085 – 150 barges anchored in basin

1215 L1225 – Road and RR bridges intact L0836 – Road and RR severely damaged L1353 – Approximately 10 unoccupied barracks

1505 VENLO – Road and RR bridges intact

MAASTRICHT – RR and road bridge intact E9522 – Excavations in progress. Approx 2 miles long in irregular line going SE

1430 E6401 – 6 MET going N 1610 K9116 – RR bridge out

F3229 – Train 20 to 25 cars going W 1620 P9175 to 9263 – Network of jigzag trenches and dug in pill boxes

L1634 – 3 enemy tanks going N L9041 – 4 enemy tanks going N

0855 Pillboxes in SIEGFRIED LINE appear to be vulnerable from rear because of large doors 1200 M/Y at AACHEN very active

K8070 – going S are trenches parallel to frontier 1625 L6572 – Several gun emplacements under construction

1500 Pilot suspect tank concentration in woods N of EYNATTEN 1650 K8636 – Damaged tank trap 1810 Between MAASTRICHT and K7794 – all MEUSE R bridges out w/ following exceptions

K552, K5456, K5860, K6379, K7186, K7791, K7793. K8391 – Approx 10 enemy tanks on side of road and in field. F0088 and F0878 – Freshly dug trenches about 20 ft wide and 300 yds long

1855 K8622 – Supply dump K9521 – Concrete AT obstacles L2193 – 8 MET SW F0724 – 50 to 70 barrage balloons over space of 1000 ft K9222 – Earthworks and fortifications in field covered by grass

1810 F0375 – 2 camouflaged enemy tanks

F0363 – Large field with many large haystacks and number of vehicle tracks in sight.

Journal 1 Dissem: Engrs, W/R, Arty, 2d Armd Div,

30th Inf Div, 113th Cav

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G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom Time Rec’d

0315

Person Calling Rec’d by Lt. Little Arty today somewhat heavier than yesterday, but still not heavy. Most of it was light arty with some medium and heavy. Enemy showed today tendency to bunch up, thus making arty targets of themselves. From time to time they even withdrew to assembly areas. Total PW’s 120 Enemy using mostly mortars, automatic weapons, and small arms. Withdrew in the morning, and no contact was made until noon. Left some mines. Some bombs dropped this evening in vic of CP, but no damage done, and no indication of what the object of the bombing was. Journal 1 Dissem: Master W/R, G-3, Cofs, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit First US Army Time

Rec’d 0500

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Lt. Little Little enemy Opposition was encountered by 3d AD as it crossed German border about 1500 this afternoon in the vic of K8930 but stronger resistance consisting of mortar, arty, and small arms fire was met to the North. 1st Inf Div crossed the border at K8037 about 1515. Pearl reported the following message was heard on 4 SS PGR net: 15 tanks and inf thrusting forward from the direction of Neundorf P8386. At 1530 and again at 1620, according to Pearl, 116 Pz Rcn control said to patrol enemy has tanks 2 kms N of Hergenrath K7935. Withdraw via Aachen. Report situation to Eyksen K7638. Pearl also states that 116 Pz control told a patrol to take up contact with right wing of 9 Pz 500 meters E of RR station at Hergenrath K7935 at 1448. This morning a plane reported observing large concrete wall 1-50 ft wide and possibly 7 ft high. 463 high obstacles on top running from K8556 N along the German frontier to K7070. Newly dug trenches to the E of the Wall follow along general line of wall starting ¼ mile E of Wall itself and extending in depth to 1 ½ miles. Line remained substantially unchanged in V Corps sector at 1800. Units identified on right front of V Corps were mostly from 19 and 48 Inf Divs and 5 Para Div. PW’s taken by V Corps stated 80% of German people will welcome our troops. Map taken from PW of Para Regt at P3886 this morning showed straggler escape route as follows: Maubeuge 03293, 0-7182-Namur J9511-P2983-K6712-L1495-L6392-Koblenz L8995. This PW states all stragglers were to try to reach this route and follow it to Koblenz. Recent aerial photos of the Rhine and the Siegfried Line for a distance of 15 kms N of Trier reveal no activity Journal 2 Dissem: W/R, G-3

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit First US Army Time

Rec’d 0530

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Lt Little

42

Only in the vic of Maastricht is the enemy offering substantial resistance. Elms of the 1st Inf Div crossed the German border at K7041 and K8339 today with no trouble. CCB of the 3d AD went as far as K 9129 Elms of the 30th Inf Div are across the Meuse R in strength in the area K5644 – K5335. V Corps reported taking 2 PW’s from the 36 Fus Bn who said that they had been inducted only 2 weeks ago and that their div, not identified but perhaps 36 Mtz Div, was Baumholder L7213. Freshly dug trenches reported at F0088 and F0878 approx 20 ft wide and 300 yds long. Journal 3 Dissem: W/R, G-3

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master Time

Rec’d 0715

Person Calling Maj Rozamus Rec’d by Col Crystal Jayhawk’s enemy front lines K7740 8735 8730 9129 8804 Opposition: Some arty, mortar, small groups of Infantry Journal 4 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit 1st Army Engr Time

Rec’d 0800

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Maj Graybill There is a large Dam at F068235, three kilometres SE of Rhurburg. Damage to the dam may result in flooding of the area Monschau – Duren. Journal 5 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty

BY RADIO FROM ANTELOPE WHAT WAS BELIEVED TO BE A JU88 DROPPED A STRING OF 10 LIGHT BOMBS IN VICINITY OF 557404 AT 2130 BT 2200B 130948B DY

43

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1110

Person Calling Capt Hewitt Rec’d by Maj Graybill Light opposition up to K6147 – SA fire not continuous. 2 units 119 Inf up to K6548 and K6748. No opposition until within 1500 yds of line. Then received S/A fires, mortar fire and 20 mm fire. Civilians Report: 120800 – 65 to 70 tanks moving N to town at 590460. 300 enemy with MG in same area. Enemy Infantry dug in before RR station on E side MAASTRICHT. Actual number not known. Arty in wood K5854. Many side roads running off main road N to MAASTRICHT. Journal 6 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty, Master phoned,

2nd Armd

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1125

Person Calling Capt Hewitt Rec’d by Maj Graybill Civilian report: RR bridge at MAASTRICHT has been blown. 2 road bridges that remain are prepared for demolition. Civilians of MAASTRICHT warned that bridges will blown at any time. Underground reports 300 men are defending bridges. Civilian from GEULEN 623541 furnished following information: Road heavily mined at 615532. Quarry along road being prepared for dynamiting at this point. Also reports high ground SE being prepared by civilian forced labor for Infantry defense. This high ground includes following towns: PERBIRBE, GASTHUIS, MARGRAT. Journal 7 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 (TWX) Time

Rec’d 131139

Person Calling Col Dickson Rec’d by Sgt Read

ISUM period ending 130900

Quiet night is reported from XIX Corps sector were 1st Bn of Dutch SS Landsturm 176 Inf Div, 275 Inf Div

44

and elements of 49 Inf Div and 22 GAF were in contact. Counterattacks Southwest of AACHEN at 121300 and 122400B, the later by AACHEN defense Bn, were unsuccessful. Artillery fire in this sector on increased scale. Captured field order, date of which not yet reported but evidently recent, indicates LXXXI Corps defending in AACHEN sector and consisting of 373, 275, 49, 116 Pz and 9 SS Pz Divs. Boundary between LXXXI and LXXXV Corps approximately EUPEN – ZULPICH (F233) – BONN with LXXXIV Corps on South. V Corps reports Dutchy of Luxembourg clear of enemy with exception of Southeast corner where enemy pockets remain. Elements 15 Pz Gren Div identified by PW in V Corps sector where no change is reported on previous identifications.

Journal 8 Dissem: W/R, Arty, G-3, C/S

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1201

Person Calling Capt Hewitt Rec’d by Maj Graybill

Civilian report:

Germans have prepared foxholes 5 to 6 feet deep camouflaged behind bushes and trees. Tank traps are 15 to 20 feet square. Small houses are used to conceal pill boxes and tanks. Using great many mines. Tunnels and electricity running to houses. 1 PW from KAMPFGRUPPE RIEDL captured last night stated at noon yesterday this group given mission to rescue a Captain believed to be a General’s Aide. The general mission had been to cover withdrawal N of VISE. This Kampfgruppe made up of stragglers gathered at MAASTRICHT a week ago.

COMMENT: Riedl commands 275 Fus Bn. Journal 9 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty, Master phoned

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1330

Person Calling Capt Hewitt Rec’d by Maj Graybill Statement of 2 civilians: Germans are evacuating civilians from Siegfried line area East of Rhine to construct the main defense line. Journal 10 Dissem: W/R, C/S, G-3, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1335

Person Calling Col Hall Rec’d by Maj Graybill

45

Priest who just came through lines gave following information: At Heerlan 7756 RR bridge, gas works and waterworks are mined. All roads in vicinity are mined, electricity off since 131230 Sept. Germans moving N through town at that time. Journal 11 Dissem: 2nd AD phoned, W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit 2nd AD Time

Rec’d 1340

Person Calling Lt Koch Rec’d by Maj Graybill 176 Arty Regt of 176 Inf Div identified slightly W of Asch. According to PW’s there are only 4 Bns of Inf in the Division. Journal 12 Dissem: Master Tac phoned, 30th phoned, W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1345

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Maj Graybill Holland Police Officer reports German General Staff which was in Paris is now Roermand, General Molt yesterday was at Kas Telmheer. 1000 Germans are at St. Peter in underground barracks. 117th Inf received light Arty barrage, counter battery reduced same. 117th Inf 1 Bn 610745 – 3 Bn 600462 – 2 Bn 605448. receiving light resistance, sniper fire, 20mm flak Belgian people report Siegfried line held by either very young or old troops. Journal 13 Dissem: W.R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Combat Obsvr Time

Rec’d 1550

Person Calling Capt Dollahite Rec’d by Maj Graybill The Corps is being delayed by minefields, blown bridges and unprotected road blocks. The 1st Inf Div receiving Arty, mortar and S/A fire from NW. Journal 14 Dissem: W/R

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

46

From Unit Custom Time

Rec’d 1545

Person Calling Col Hall Rec’d by Maj Graybill Rec’d by Chief of Police Norbeek at 1500. By telephone from resistance worker in Maastricht: RR bridge & N road bridge are out. Other main road bridge to be blown at 1600 today. 200 enemy trps & 10 tks W of Meuse & E of Albert Canal. On the RR in Sittard 6968 on W side of station stand three carriages 15 metres between each carriage. 2 German carriages and 1 Belgian carriage who are loaded with string power especially destined to let spring the mine. Journal 15 Dissem: W/R, Eng, Arty, 2nd AD Phoned

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit MII Time

Rec’d 1600

Person Calling Capt Pamp Rec’d by Maj Graybill Civilians report Germans in area JULICH – DUREN – ERKELENS are arriving from Finland: Each sector of SIEGFRIED LINE is receiving a tank detachment of 12 tanks. Civilians are being evacuated from AACHEN – ESCHWEILER and STOLBERG. Civilians report vic 526583 off to right of LANAEKEN – SUTENDAEL road Germans have cleared a landing strip in woods. Usually hidden by nets the area is heavily defended by MGs and Light AT guns and barbed wire. There are also searchlights. Civilian report continuous minefield on road DELHAIN – ROLOUX. Anti-personnel mines in front of viaduct at DELHAIN. Two of its pillars also mined. Undependable civilian report states tunnel leads from vicinity EBEN EMAEL to MAASTRICHT Opening in so called St PIERRE quarter of the city. Takes 1 ½ hours on foot. Blowing certain obstacles in it would make passage 2 ½ meters wide by 2 ½ meters high. Journal 16 Dissem: 2 AD phoned, W/R, Arty, Engr.

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Radio Int. Time

Rec’d 1435

Person Calling Rec’d by MC 116th Pz located at K7746. Main defense line from Church at 7547 along hwy to German border between Oberstehof (7745) – Leniers (7744) N to height 257 (7944) along hwy to Baalas (7942) – Seffent (8044) Main line manned by KG Gaecheser (Kamp Gruppe) Journal Dissem: Arty

47

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master Time

Rec’d 1700

Person Calling Maj Reis Rec’d by MC

V Corps reports resistance to be light – primarily small arms and Mortar from Siegfried Line (8870 – 9071)

To N of this point heavy but ineffective arty falling.

Our left unit reports no substantial resistance.

(Maj Rozanus ) VII Corps

4 Cav Gp fwd elms at 938067, 905063, 975005 – 1400 hrs. No resistance.

3 Armd Div rpts PW states section West Wall vic of 910290 has been manned the last 3 days.

An AT ditch constructed at Rotgen.

328 Gren Repl and Tng bn stationed at 923325 has been committed consisting of 400 men with MG’s – no mortars. 90 Inf Div rpts enemy tanks at 845090. Enemy Inf at 860075. 1440 Journal 17 Dissem: W/R, Arty, C/S, Divisions

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Antelope Time

Rec’d 131745B Sep 44

Person Calling Rad Msg Rec’d by Capt Cavanaugh Trench from 670493 to 701488 full of Germans not moving. 729488 to 735483 trench reported mined and looked like abandoned guns in it. Civilian report AT gun at 703410. Journal 18 Dissem: W/R, Arty, C/S, 30th Div

131800

TAC/R RESULTS OF MISSION 12 SEPTEMBER 1944 FROM: G-2 (Air) First U.S. Army TO : FUSA TAC, V – Corps, VII Corps, XIX Corps, (Attn. G-2 Air) TIMES OBSERVATIONS 0900 K5233 to K5652 – All bridges over Meuse R out.

K5653 – Rd and RR bridge intact. K5538 – Pontoon bridge half-completed. K5653 to K8299 – All bridges out.

48

1115 F0414 – One tank parked possibly digging in.

F2827 – One train, 10 passenger cars, South. F4613 – One train, 15 cars, South.

1140 K5652 – Rd and RR bridges intact.

K6472 – Road bridge intact. K6164, K7790, K7893 – Rd. bridges intact K6269 – Rd bridge out. K6479 – K6780 – K7084 – Rd. bridges out. K7085 – 150 barges anchored in basin.

1215 L1225 – Rd. and RR. bridges intact L1325 – Train of 3 cars and 2 flat cars loaded, East L0836 – Rd. and RR. severely damaged. L1353 – Approx. 10 unoccupied barracks.

1305 VENLO – Rd and RR. bridges intact.

MAASTRICHT – RR and Rd. bridge intact E9522 – Excavations in progress approx 2 mi. long in irregular line SE.

1430 K5184 – 100 people in town street, possibly civilians.

E6401 – 6 Met Northeast. 1610 K9116 – RR bridge out.

F3229 – Train 20-25 cars, West.

1620 P9175 to P9263 – Network of zig-zag trenches and dug-in pillboxes. L1634 – 3 Enemy tanks North. L9041 – 4 Enemy tanks North.

0855 Pill boxes in Siegfried line appear vulnerable from rear, large doors. (FB)

1200 M/Y yard at AACHEN very active. (FB) From K8070 South are trenches parallel to frontier. (FB)

1625 L6572 – Several gun emplacements under construction. (FB)

1500 Pilots suspect tank concentration in woods North of Eynatten. (FB)

(8334) 1650 K8636 – Damaged tank trap. 1810 Between Maastricht and K7794 – All Meuse bridges out w/ exception of

K5552, K5456, K5860, K6379, K7186, K7791, K7793. K8391 – Approx 10 enemy tanks on side of road and in field. F0088 and F0878 – Freshly dug trenches about 20 ft. wide, 300 yards long. F0375 – 2 cam. enemy tanks. F0363 – large field w/ many large haystacks, number of vehicle tracks.

1855 K8622 – Supply dump.

K9222 – Earthworks fortifications in field, covered by grass. K9521 – Concrete A/T obstacle. F0724 – 50-70 Barrage balloons over space of 1000 feet.

L2193 – 8 Met Southwest.

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit 113th Cav Time

Rec’d 2130

49

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by MC

Captured 130 PW’s including officers also a few horses mopping up General vic 570460

3 platoon captured one half track with 20mm gun Mt and Ammo trailer at 690475 with personnel equipment 1st Inf Div Rcn Troop 721431 1734B

Two PW’s, one identified as 53 Regt FAF is combat Gp Ilseman captured 707483. Five casualties identified as 883 Inf Bn at 722458, PW reports four companies 883 Inf Bn dug in at 709486 and one cannon to ea co.

Approx 80 enemy at 683495 driven out killed 20 captured 2, bridge 713477 completely blown. 1842B Journal 19 Dissem: G-3, W/R, Arty, C/S, Engr, Divisions

G-2 PERIODIC REPORT #91 Headquarters XIX Corps

From: 130001B Sept 44 To : 132400B Sept 44

No. 91 Maps: No change 1. ENEMY SITUATION AT END OF PERIOD

e. e. Enemy Front Lines K7345 – 6752 – BERG (6253) – 5754 – 5550 – 5649 – 5349 – along ALBERT CANAL to RR bridge (4262) – along RR to Corps boundary – 3870.

f. f. Defensive Organisation

Many roads were blocked at strategic points with tree trunks and poles. The blocks were booby trapped and mined but lightly defended by fire. Considerable mining was encountered by advancing elements. The enemy frequently fought from dug in positions. Bridges were generally blown.

g. g. Units in Contact No new units were reported during the period. Prisoners continue to come from a variety of units; one group of 64 were reported from 38 distinct organizations.

7. 7. ENEMY OPERATIONS DURING PERIOD

General Summary XIX Corps – The enemy continued his strong delaying efforts throughout the period – employing infantry , AT guns, small groups of tanks, light arty and some mortar fire to impede our advance. The active resistance was implemented by road blocks, demolitions, mines, and booby traps. No enemy air was reported. VII Corps – Minefields, blown bridges and unprotected road blocks were reported together with light arty and small arms fire as the resistance encountered by the Corps in moving generally to the line 8040 – 8537 – 9133 today. V Corps – Resistance was reported to be light – primarily small arms and mortar from the Siegfried Line (8870 – 9071). 30 British Corps – Today the enemy’s reactions on XXX Corps front have remained fundamentally the same. He has ignored our bridgehead over the MEUSE CANAL and persisted in his attacks against the one at GHEEL; these attacks have been noticeable weaker then yesterdays. The 6th Para Regt, the strongest remaining parachute formation left is still between our two bridgeheads over the ALBERT CANAL. (Source: Intelligence Summary N0. 499A).

3. MISCELLANEOUS

50

Siegfried Line – “West of the SIEGFRIED Line, defenses encountered were for the most part, isolated strong points and locale defenses of road blocks and stream crossings. On the SIEGFRIED Line, where contacted, there were evidences of defensive preparation. One pillbox was newly camouflaged; troop movements were observed up to company strength; supplies were being brought in; and SS troops were observed in the area. Indications lead to the conclusion that these defenses have recently been rehabilitated. Civilians reported that the defenses were unmanned on 8 Sept; that many are inundated by seepage, many guns have been removed, with barbed wire and obstacles taken up; and that there are not sufficient troops to man all the defenses. Pillboxes simulating houses were reported.” (Source: Hq V Corps, G-2 Periodic Report No. 97).

Weather – Generally fair with haze persisting during the period. Intermittent showers are predicted for the coming period. PWs – Approximately 750 PWs were taken during the period Enemy Situation – “This estimate, which is generous, makes an available total 85,500 men and 270 tanks. Police, L of C, Signal and other service units hastily gathered and thrown in to man the West Wall may add an additional 20,000 to 30,000 men in the zone of action of the First U.S. Army. However, the training, physical fitness, morale and equipment of these people are probably miserable. Furthermore the character and quality of the leadership of these rear service units will be low order. “A great shortage of artillery is to be expected and apart from the battered divisional artillery now retreating to the West Wall little or no artillery will be found in support for the next week or ten days. Flak, hastily gathered from abandoned air fields and borrowed from interior Germany will endeavor to fill the breach and will be found in open field emplacements and woods, with the exception of concreted observation posts. “ Morale. Morale may stiffen temporarily as the German soldier returns to light on his native soil. It is doubted whether this can be sustained for any length of time because of the effect on the soldier of a thoroughly war-weary population. “Although the RHINE is the best natural line of defense for Germany, it is believed that a stand will be ordered on the West Wall for reasons of prestige, and the fact that the loss of Germany west of the Rhine will be a staggering blow to national pride. Furthermore, air fields west of the RHINE are needed and are currently being used. A study is being made of the possibility of the defense of the RHINE. It is believed that the over-running of the West Wall will cost him so much of what remains of his Western armies that unless troops are evacuation successfully from Finland, Norway and the Balkans, he will not have the man-power necessary to an the RHINE.” (Source: Hq First U.S. G-2 Estimate No. 26).

WASHINGTON PLATT Colonel, GSC

G-2 1 Incl. Annex #1 – Consolidated Corps PW Report Distribution: FUSA (3) 179th FA Gp 30th Corps (British) V Corps (2) 258th FA Gp CG XIX VII Corps (2) 8th FA Gp C/S VIII Corps 119th FA Gp (5) G-3 TUSA 228th FA Gp (5) W/R 2nd Armd Div 113th Cav Gp (3) Engr 1st Inf Div 16th AAA Gp Sig 28th Inf Div 68th Med Gp Air O 30th Inf Div 1104th Engr Gp (3) Arty (2) 79th Inf Div 1105th Engr Gp PI 20 2nd Sig Bn 1115th Engr Gp (5) MII 424 175th Med Bn 3252 Sig Serv IPW 39 743rd Tank Bn 12th Army Gp File (10)

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744th Tank Bn 21st Army Gp 749th Tank Bn Det Zu, 21st MWU 2nd TD Gp (2) Msg Cen (2) 12th AAA Gp 49th AAA Brig 7th Armd Gp 8th Corps (British) ANNEX #1 TO PERIODIC REPORT #91 Headquarters XIX Corps Annex #1 to Periodic Report #90

CONSOLIDATED CORPS PW REPORT FROM 112400 TO 122400

Total PWs reported from cages of Corps units for the period: 225 Breakdown of PWs according to units follows:

Div No, of PWs Regiment or Separate Unit No. of PWs Capturing Unit 176th Inf (?) 4 15th Repl & Tng Rcn Bn 4 2nd Armd Div 347th Inf 10 860th Regt 10 30th Div 16th Security Regt 7 30th & 2nd Armd Div 193rd Marsch Bn 11 30th Div 6th Construction Engr Bn 37 30th Div Battle Group “GRANDE” 17 113th Cav Gp Battle Group “LAESSIG” 19 30th Div Battle Group “DIENELT” 44 30th Div Battle Group “HORSTMANN” 12 30th Div 64 Stragglers from the following 38 units: 30th Div & 2nd Armd Div &

113th Cav 3rd Para, 2nd Pz, 407th Pz, 33rd Inf, 47th Inf, 143rd Inf, 272nd Inf, 275th Inf, 348th Inf, 353rd Inf, 711th Inf Divs; 22nd GAF, 275th (?) inf, 12th Pz, 6th & 8th (Italian) Alpini, 42nd (Italian) Arty, 948th Security Regts; 4252 RAD Bn, ? RAD Bn,135th Labor Bn, 929th Gren Bn z.b.V, 525 Landesschuetzen Bn, 451 Repl Bn, 17th Pz Assault Gun Bn, 148th Repl Bn, 736th & 773rd Local Defenses Bns, 456th & 480 Inf Repl Bns, ? Security Bn, 747th & 657th Security Bns, KGs “SCHMIDT” & “EMEDINGER”, NSKK, & Einheit “FINZEL”.

4. 4. Statements from PWs questioned at cages of Corps units included the following:

a. a. Battle Group “GRANDE” was formed at the straggler collecting point at MAASTRICHT. The men came from many unit among which were the following: 34th Gren Regt, 82nd Fortress Cadre, 657th Security Bn, 84th Inf Div, 514th Marsch Bn z.b.V, 668th Heavy AT Bn, 438th Gren Repl Bn, 191st Security Regt, 104th Gren Regt. 1035th Inf Regt, Army Hospital 3/614, 736th Security Bn. This straggler collecting point was dissolved 9th Sept.

b. b. Battle Group “LAESSIG” consists of approx 160 men from GAF ground crews. Battle

Group “DIENELT”, two days ago, was 175 – 200 men strong. c. c. PWs from 15th Repl & Tng Rcn Bn believe that they belong to 176th Inf Div. This div is said

to have been organized during the past month from third-class personnel. Rcn Bn two bicycle troops of 120 men each.

d. d. Mobile Bns 509, 510 and 511 have been formed into Regt “GLADOW” as part of the 147th

Inf Div. 4. 4. Total PWs taken by Corps units to date: 18,038.

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IPW TEAM #39

G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 194 HQ XIX Corps FROM: CG XIX CORPS 131245B

TO: CG FIRST US ARMY, HQ FIRST US ARMY TAC, CG 30 BR CORPS, CG V US CORPS, CG VII CORPS,

CG 2D ARMD DIV CG 30TH INF DIV. ATTN G-3’S

SITREP NR 194 AS OF 131200 SEP 1944 2D ARMD DIV

CCA LEFT COL K270704 RIGHT COL K370634 CCA ATTACKED AT FIRST LIGHT AND MOVED TO PRESENT POSNS MEETING MODERATE

RESISTANCE AND CLEANING OUT AREA COVERED. CCB AREA EXTENDING INTO 30TH DIV ZONE WAS ALTERED BY ADDING A LINE DRAWN

FROM 390504 TO 490480 30TH INF DIV 117TH INF 1ST BN 610469

2ND BN 584445 3RD BN 612452 119TH INF 1ST BN 650481 3D BN 667475 2D BN MOVING UP 120TH INF 1ST BN AND 3D BNS MOVING ACROSS RIVER 2ND BN VIC FT EBEN EMAEL ATTACHED TO 1115TH ENGR C GP 113TH CAV GP ELMS AT K 6646, 6846, 6643. CP’S NO CHANGE

G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 195 HQ XIX Corps FROM: CG XIX CORPS 140045B

TO: CG FUSA, (ATTN G-3’S), CG FUSA TAC, CG VII CORPS, CO 30TH BR CORPS, CG 2D ARMD DIV, CG

30TH INF DIV, CO 7TH ARMD GP, CO 2ND BN120TH INF RGT, CG IX TAC.

SITREP 195 AS OF 132400B 30TH INF DIV

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117TH INF 1ST BN K616495 2ND BN OCCUPYING MAASTRICHT E OF MEUSE R. 3RD BN 620533 119TH INF 1ST BN K659515 2ND BN 642488 3RD BN 682493 120TH INF 1ST BN K673468 2ND BN CORPS RES 3RD BN 668461 113TH CAV GP ATCHD TO 30TH INF DIV

LEADING ELEMENTS 113TH SQ AT 581500 & 731466 LEADING ELEMENTS 125TH SQ AT 706470 & 710450

2 ND BN 120 TH INF K551474 MOVING N AGAINST INTRENCHED INF TO SEIZE BRIDGE HEAD NE SE SIDE ALBERT CANAL AT K545478 2ND ARMD DIV CCA CLEARING OUT TRIANGLE GENERAL N - S LINE THRU GENCH (K4365). RESISTANCE CONSISTING OF DEFENDED ROAD BLICKS AND DUG IN AT GUN WAS DETERMINED TERRAIN DIFFICULT. 82ND RCN BN ATCHD TO CCA. 99TH INF BN ATCHD 2 ND ARMD DIV ASSEMBLED VIC K 5//// 4066. CP’S CHANGES

30TH INF DIV K630422 117TH INF 614494 119TH INF 661476 120TH INF 663460 CCA 2ND ARMD DIV K367641 CCB 2ND ARMD DIV K 401518

G - 3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 13 September 1944 FROM: DETACHMENT ZU 21 WEATHER SQUADRON 130700B TO: G-3 ARMOR FWD (WAR ROOM), AG ARMOR RR, HQ COMDT ARMOR RR

CEA (G-2) ADO (G-2) BT: THIRTEEN SEPTEMBER ONE NINE FOUR FOUR WEATHER FORECAST FOR XIX CORPS SECTOR FOR 130800B TO 140800B SEPT 44. HIGH SCATTERED CLOUDS INCREASING DURING THE MORNING AND LOWERING TO FROM BROKEN MIDDLE CLOUDS DURING AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT. SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS TONIGHT. FAIR VISIBILITY IN HAZE THIS MORNING BECOMING GOOD THIS AFTERNOON. LIGHT EASTERLY WINDS THIS MORNING BECOMEING MODERATE THIS AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT. LITTLE CHANGE IN TEMPERTURE. MODERATELY FAVORABLE FOR USE OF SCREENING SMOKE. UNFAVORABLE FOR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY. FAVORABLE FOR AIR ACTIVITY AND GROUND OPERATIONS.

A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL FORWARD ECHELON Hq XIX Corps

54

IN

OUT

SERIAL

NO.

TIME

DATED

INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

No entry A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL REAR ECHELON Hq XIX Corps

IN

OUT

SERIAL

NO.

TIME

DATED

INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

0700 1 121700 Adm O #8, XIX Corps 0830 2 120600 G-3 Periodic Rpt #97, XIX Corps 0830 3 111600 Ltr of Instructions #28, XIX Corps 0845 4 121650 Ltr of Instructions #28, XIX Corps 0900 5 Contacted Maj Pickett, Ord Sec, ref loss four ¼ ton trucks rptd by 113th Cav Gp,

12 Sept 44. He rptd no ¼ ton trucks available. Army has recd 400 which most be processed before issue in 2 or 3 days. Excessive loss of ¼ ton trucks and M29’s in the rapid cross-country march from Paris into Belgium is responsible for current shortage of ¼ ton trucks. Maj Pickett rptd the 113th Cav Gp will receive replacements on their ¼ tons first. Other units such as TD’s and Tk Units will receive the second priority.

JOURNAL CHEMICAL SECTION Hq XIX Corps

IN

OUT

SERIAL

NO.

TIME

DATED

INCIDENT

1140 1 Msg to Gas O’s, 7th Armd Gp, 119th FA Gp, 228th FA Gp, 258th FA Gp, 16th AAA, 113th Cav Gp and 1104th Engr C Gp: “Please furnish, attention Cml O, names and serial numbers of presently assigned Gp and Bn Gas Officers and other officers having had training as Unit Gas Officers.”

JOURNAL ENGINEER SECTION Hq XIX Corps FROM: 13001B September 44 TO: 132400B September 1944 PLACE: Vic of ST TRUEND 1 0030 Rec’d Adm. O. No. 8 – copies to all units. 2 1055 Rec’d ltr fr 467th Engr Maint Co new location: J-690340 effective 121400B Sept 44. 3 1145 Rec’d msg fr CG (G-3) 2 Bn, 120 Inf vic EBEN EMAEL is atchd to the 1115th Engr C Group

effective at once. 1115th Engr C group secure bridge head vic 544480. When bridge head is secured, construct bridge. CG, XIX Corps Arty will alert two (2) Field Artillery battalions for possible employment as infantry (1130)

4 1145 Rec’d Bridge Report fr 1115th Engr C Group (82d Engr C Bn Bridge at K501421 ( copy sent to Army ) 5 1155 Rec’d General Engr Road Recon fr 1104th Engr C Gp as of 1500 hrs 12 Sept 44 (247th Engr C Bn) 6 1300 Rec’d Engr Operations Report No 78 fr FUSA Engr. 7 1615 Rec’d msg fr 30th Inf Div (Thru G-2) Rec’d by Chief of Police NORBECK at 1500. By telephone from

resistance worker in MAASTRICHT: RR bridge an N road bridge are out. Other main road bridge to be blown at 1600 toady. 200 enemy Troops, 10 tks W of MEUSE and E of ALBERT Canal. On the RR in SITTARD 6968 on W side of station stand three carriages 10 meters between each carriage. 2 German carriages and 1 Belgium carriage who are loaded with string power especially destined to let spring the mine.

55

8 1615 Msg fr MII 424: Civilians reports Germans in area JULIGH – DUREN – ERKELENS are arriving from Finland: Each sector of SIEGFRIED LINE is receiving a tank detachment of 12 tanks. Civilians are being evacuated from AACHEN – ESCHWEILER and STOLBERG. Civilians report vic 526583 off to right of LANAEKEN – SUTENDAEL road Germans have cleared a landing strip in woods. Usually hidden by nets the area is heavily defended by MG’s and Light AT Guns and barbed wire. There are also search lights. RALOU X. Anti-personnel mines in front of viaduct at DELHAIN. Two of its pillars also mined. Undependable civilian report states tunnel leads from vicinity EBEN EMAEL to MAASTRICHT opening in so called ST PIERRE quarter of the city. Takes 1 ½ hours on foot. Blowing certain obstacles in it would make passage 1 ½ meters wide by 2 ½ meters high.

9 2250 Rec’d TAC/R Results of missions as of 12 Sept 44 fr G-2. 10 2250 Rec’d msg fr 113th Cav (Thru G-2) Approx 90 enemy at 683495 driven out killed 20 captured 2,

Bridge 7134477 completely blown 1842B. JOURNAL ORDNANCE SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

1 0900 – Maj Pickett visited 52nd Ord Gp and saw WO Bedino who stated allocation for M5A1 Tractors had not been received. Major Pickett visited 48th Ord Bn re supply matters.

2 1030 – Corps G-4 visited Corps OO to discuss the possibility of Army’s limiting Arty ammo expenditures. Decision was made at the time to wait for the official notification to come down thru channels before taking further action.

3 1135 – Corps OO visited OO 2nd A.D. on routine contact visit. 1720 4 Lt Col Partridge notified of his assignment to the Hq 32nd FA Brigade, APO 230. 2100 5 Lt Col Delamain called to inform us they had trucks available to haul 80 tons of

ammo if required. 2345 6 Col O’Shea called stating trucks just arrived at ASP 122. Were held over 6 hours

at ASP 119. Can only use trucks tomorrow if they can be back by dark. 2350 7 Called Lt Col Ray re situation at ASP 119. He stated trucks should be in there no

longer than 3 hours tomorrow. He is sending Lt Col Hutcherson to ASP 119. 2400 8 Called Col O’Shea, who agreed to send trucks under Col Ray’s stipulation that

trucks would not be held more than 3 hours in ASP. JOURNAL QUARTERMASTER SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

0800 1 Captain Thomas made a trip to the Class I and III Dumps to check upon the status of supplies and reported that a total of 155,450 gallons of gasoline was received of which 30% was allocated to Army to fill the needs of Army Troops; that 25,000 “B” rations were received and 15,000 additional rations consisting of “C”, “K” and “10-in –1”.

1000 2 Lt. Colonel Kelly went on trip to U.S. Military Cemetery operated by the 608th QM Gr. Reg Co to observe the method of operations and to determine what the status of Cemetery Supplies on hand and expected needs for operations at another cemetery.

JOURNAL SURGEON SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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OUT

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NO.

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DATED

INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

1400 1 Capt ENGLEHARD, 92nd Chemical Battalion Surgeon, visited and made arrangements for dental survey of the battalion to be done tomorrow.

1500 2 Col RUMPF visited 41st Evacuation Hospital to see Col SAULNIER. Army was

56

notified that it was the desire to have him hospitalized on the Continent until he is ready for duty.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) 13 September 1944 On 13 Sept, the Gp continued its mission. Progress was slow in early morning on the right flank - particularly with Tr “A”. The CG 30th Div had told the Gp Comdr that he especially desired the 125th Sq to capture and occupy the high ground vic GULPIN by dark, 13 Sept. In view of slow progress made by the 125th Sq in early morning, the Gp Comdr attached to that Sq Tr “B” 113th Sq which was in Gp reserve. Tr “B” was given the mission of protecting the Sq right flank and maintaining contact with the 1st Inf Div. Tr “B” jumped off on this mission at 1200, and the Sq moved rapidly towards its obj. On the left flank, Tr “C” 113th Sq reinforced by Tr “E” and 2 plat of Co “F”, likewise met stubborn resistance consisting of an enemy strong point of about 100 men with small arms and machine guns. Lt KILBANE, commanding the leading plat, at once initiated aggressive dismounted patrols to “feel out” this position and determine its opposition. It was discovered that while this position consisted of many men with rifles and machine guns, there were no anti-tank weapons. Accordingly, the reinforced troop closed in on the enemy with armored cars and tanks and fired “point blank” with 37mm canister ammunition at the dismounted Germans. The strong point was thoroughly reduced - killing about 20 enemy and captured the rest. By dark 13 Sept Tr “C” 113th Sq was at K582488 and the forward elements of the 125th Sq at K769469 and K238469. At 2000, the 30th Div issued a Letter of Instructions which stated that “30th Inf Div, reinforced, will take up active defense in present location. Positions will be held with maximum forces and reorganization, maintenance, and training conducted. Aggressive patrolling will be conducted to front and flanks, and contact maintained with the enemy.” S-2, S-3 JOURNAL 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) In Out No. Dated Incidents - Messages - Orders - etc. 0100 7 13

Sept 30 Div Ltr Instructions: 113th Cav Gp continue to protect right flank of Div, maintain contact with VII Corps on right, one troop continue to protect left flank of Div and maintain contact with 117th Inf.

0300 20 13 Sept

From 113th Sq: Noting to report

0820 25 13 Sept

Tr “B” 113th Sq to join 125th Sq at 610395 at once.

0821 28 13 Sept

2nd Bn 47th Inf Regt 710390 3rd Bn 119th Regt 650438, 2nd Bn 117th 583442. 3rd Bn 117th 597443.

0903 32 13 Sept

Enemy reported at 572458 dug in on rd N to large town.

0907 33 13 Sept

1st Bn 117 Inf jumped off 0845.

0710 34 13 Sept

2nd Bn 117 Inf jumped off 0845

0945 37 13 Sept

120 Inf Regt crossing at 553425. Moved to assembly area at 570420.

0933 38 13 Sept

2d Plat Tr “C” fwd elms 660460.

0957 1017 41 13 Sept

18 Inf Regt rpts no enemy contact at any point.

0925 1015 42 13 Sept

125th Sq made contact with 1 Inf Div at 370661.

1025 43 13 Sept

Enemy AT Gun at 568457

1018 44 13 Sept

16 Inf , 1 Div, on 125th Sq right flank, 1 Bn 830380 receiving hvy arty fire from vic 790403. 26 Inf moving around right flank 16 Inf.

1103 1116 49 13 2d Plat Tr “C”, 113th Sq at 568441 at 1049 no contact

57

Sept 1110 1150 50 13

Sept Tr “B” , 113th Sq, rptd to 125th Sq and have jumped on mission. Tr “A” at 665428 also contacted 5 dsmtd men 1 mi SW of 665428.

1120 1135 51 13 Sept

Small arms fire at 660467. One plat Tr “C” 125th Sq 1 mi SW of 690475.

1125 52 13 Sept

2d Bnand Regt’l CP at 609458, 1st Bn at 613472 encountering some small arms fire. Civ rpt enemy dug in along Phase Line “4”.

1150 1155 55 13 Sept

113th Sq CP 562399. Fwd elms at 569442 - 585450.

1220 57 13 Sept

Road block at 663427. Trees at 667437. Tr “C”, 125th Sq, CP at 676448, bridge blown ¾ mi E of 663427. Tr “B” at 670470. Road block with mines and booby traps at that point.

1255 60 13 Sept

2d Bn 117 Regt moving W 587482.

1332 64 13 Sept

125th Sq moving to vic 690474.

1425 1430 66 13 Sept

1 plat Tr “C, 113th Sq, at 574457 - in contact with 20 dsmtd men with small arms and automatic wpns. 1 plat Tr “C” reinforced at 585486 are shelling with AG and arty/ 1 German 20mm Gun, 1 Med AT Gun and 20 or 30 men at 589465. After shelling will attack.

1430 68 13 Sept

113th Cav Gp CP enroute.

1402 69 13 Sept

743 Med Tk Bn moving behind Tr “C” 113th Sq, will coordinate.

1430 71 13 Sept

1 Cannon, several MG’s, approx 100 men dug in at 718475 on high ground. Bridge out 720457.

1453 72 13 Sept

Tr “A”, 125th Sq CP, located at 703468. Several dsmtd enemy to front - we are laying fire on them now.

1425 75 13 Sept

AT and 20 or 30 dsmtd men at 589465 - after shelling will atck.

1435 76 13 Sept

Mission tomorrow; 113th Sq complete policing of zone. When completed maintain Ln between 1st and 2d Bn 117th Regt. Maintain contact with enemy by patrols to front. 125th Sq maintain present general locations, Rcn to N and NE to maintain contact with enemy.

1455 77 13 Sept

30th Inf Div CP located at 630423.

1448 1508 78 13 Sept

1 Sect on high ground at 708455 - 1 Sect at 704477 - CP 708463. Captd 5 PW’s : from 125th Sq.

1517 1528 79 13 Sept

Tr “C”, 113th Sq, mopping up town at 587480 captd 14 PW’s - Still receiving some mortar fire.

1545 81 13 Sept

113th Cav Gp CP at 665434.

1548 82 13 Sept

Knocked enemy AT Gun at 588462. Enemy retreating NW.

1603 85 13 Sept

1 Plat Tr “C”, 125th Sq, fwd elms at 683485

1639 88 13 Sept

Fwd elms Tr “C” 113th Sq at 590470.

1613 90 13 Sept

Knocked 2 AT Guns at 586480. One PW taken same location.

1707 1733 93 13 Sept

Captd 6 more PW’s at 588462.

1712 1830 95 13 Sept

Fwd elms Tr “C” 113th Sq at 588481 - in contact with 2nd BN 117th Ing.

1824 1827 96 13 Sept

Tr “C” 113th Sq fwd elms at 572463 moving N also at 583495 - moving E closing trap.

1830 1842 97 13 Sept

Approx 70 enemy at 683495 driven out, killed 20 captd 2, bridge at 713477 completely blown.

1835 1920 98 13 Sept

Contacted 1st Inf Div Rcn Tr at 716428 - they have road block here.

13 Sept

113th Sq CP at 586455.

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13 Sept

Disposition 113th Sq: CP 586454 - Tr “C” 582488 Tr “E” 586482 - Co “F” 583487. Continuing of mopping up of sector. 370 PW’s taken, estimated enemy casualties 70.

13 Sept

Fwd elms 125th Sq: Tr “B” 769469 to 738467 - CP at 767463.

From: SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) On 13 Sep 44 the Squadron left the vicinity of Vise, Liege, Belgium at 1930 hours and arrived in the vicinity of Gronsvild, Holland at 2010 hours. Distance traveled five miles. Weather cloudy and cool with light rain. The Squadron continued the mission of protecting the west flank of the 30th Infantry Division and resistance encountered was mopped up. The strongest opposition was met in the vicinity of Hoogaartest, Holland where the enemy was dug in in force. After a short fire fight, our assault guns were set up in battery and fired direct. Our men moved in under the barrage and attacked the enemy before they could man their positions . One hundred known casualties were inflicted on the enemy and three hundred eighty-seven prisoners were taken. At least two anti-tank guns were knocked out by direct hits and a large quantity of equipment was captured, including motorcycles, bazookas, many rifles, pistols, ammunition and automatic weapons. Casualties suffered by the Squadron were one enlisted man seriously wounded and six enlisted men slightly wounded. From: SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) members who have distinguished themselves in action. In the vicinity of Gronsvild, Holland, on 13 Sept 44, First Lieutenant Roy C. Jordan, 01030259, Troop C, was credited with heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy. 1 Lieutenant Jordan was awarded the Bronze Star Medal per Sec IV, General Orders 49, Hq XIX Corps, dated 1 Nov 44. Entered Military Service from Texas. In the vicinity of Rijckholt, Holland, on 13 Sept 44, Second Lieutenant Richard S. Demory, 01014675,was credited with heroic achievement. On the foregoing date, Lt Demory, Platoon Leader of Troop C, in the far of heavy enemy machine gun and bazooka fire, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, exposed himself from the turret of his armored car and personally exterminated the enemy machine gun and bazooka, at the same time allowing his unit to advance and attain its objective. During this period, Lt Demory provided an inspiration for his men by cool, calm and collected thinking, action and leadership. Lt Demory successfully accomplished his mission and, at the same time, kept the casualties at a minimum. Lt Demory was awarded the Bronze Star Medal per Sec IV, General Orders 49, Hq XIX Corps, dated 1 Nov 44. Entered Military Service from California. In the vicinity of Gronsvild, Holland, on 13 Sept 44, Sergeant (then Technician Fourth Grade) Glenn L. Homan, 20744079, M-8 Assault Gun Driver of Troop E, distinguished himself by heroic achievement. On the forgoing date, Sgt Homan, performing duty as driver of an M-8 Assault Gun, displayed unusual courage and initiative in fierce attacks against the enemy. When all members of his crew were wounded, he administered excellent first aid to his comrades and evecuated them to safety. Despite his own wounds, he then volunteered to serve as gunner with an inexperienced crew, in another attack against the enemy. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty contributed to victory in these attacks and reflects great credit on the military service of the United States. Sgt Homan was awarded the Bronze Star Medal per General Orders No 70, Hq XIII Coprs, dated 14 Dec 44. Entered Military Service from Iowa. In the vicinity of Gronsvild, Holland, on 13 Sep 44, Sergeant (the Corporal) Preston H. Himes, 34495505, 75mm Howitzer gunner, Troop E, distinguished himself by gallantry in action against the enemy. During an attack on enemy positions, Sergeant Himes assumed command of an M-8 Assault Gun in which the Commander, Loader and he were wounded. Realizing that the success of the attack depended on the amount of fire that could be laid on the well dug in enemy positions, Sgt Himes, disregarding his wounds, loaded the gun himself and fired two rounds, knocking out the anti-tank gun barring the path of the advance. He then manned the machine gun and, as the assault gun moved forward under heavy small arms, machine gun and automatic weapons fire, sprayed all enemy positions with fire. At the completion of this attack, which was extremely successful, he administered excellent first aid to the wounded and refused to be evacuated until a new crew had been placed in the assault gun. His heroic actions reflect great credit upon himself and the Military Service of the United States. Sgt Himes was awarded the Silver Star Medal per Sec II, General Orders No 2, Hq XIII Corps, dated 8 Jan 45. Entered Military Service from Pennsylvania. From: UNIT HISTORY Troop “B” 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) 13 September .... Mechelon, HOLLAND .... Troop was attached to the 125th Cav. Rcn. Sq. for duty at 0900 moved from vicinity of Dalhem, reinforced by 1 platoon of Eng. attached from 113th Cav. Gp. Hq. Mission was to protect

59

the flank of the 30th Inf. Div. Many road blocks consisted of AT guns and felled trees. Mine fields were encountered and had to be cleared as we moved forward. Several fire fights with enemy occurred in which we captured 60 PWs, killed several of the enemy. Troop was held up at present location by an estimated Bn. of enemy Inf. dug in on high ground to the north of our positions. Troop went into bivouac here, set up road blocks and outposted the area. From: DAILY ACTION REPORT 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) 13 Sep 44: (693469, Vicinity of Aachen, Germany). Troo “B” 113th Cav Rcn Sq, Mecz attached and given assignment of maintaining contact with 1st Inf Div on right. Troop “A” and “C” advanced NE and protecting right flank 30th Inf Div. Road blocks were numerous and about 30% covered by enemy fire consisting of mostly small arms and some anti-tank weapons. The Squadron seized the high ground running parallel to the highway along grind line 48 in Squadron sector. The enemy was entrenched two (2) places in lines running parallel to an two-hundred (200) yards North of the highway. Several concentrations were fired by our Assault Guns with estimated enemy loss of thirty-five (35) men. Approximately one-hundred (100) PWs were captured. Several rounds of enemy high velocity shells were fired but had not effect on our mission. Lack of observation had its effect on enemy artillery.

S - 3 JOURNAL 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion

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INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

13 September, 1944 617. 1400 Rcn Co. arrived at Bn assembly area now under battalion control.

1630 618. 1621 “C” Co. position at coor. 665434 Vicinity Hoogkruts. 2050 619. 2045 To 2nd TD Group - Belgians report small party of Germans seen in woods at

308455 at 1900 hours. 2150 620. 2125 Regarding message signed 2050. Take necessary action to capture enemy. -

From 2nd TD Group. From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn ( see 16 September ) ANNEX 1 UNIT JOURNAL 82nd Engr. C. Bn

Time in

Time out

Ser. No.

Time dated

INCIDENTS, MESSAGES, ORDERS, ETC. Action taken

13 Sep

131100 Assigned construction of bridge at K546477

131300 Bridge at J959368 completed 131300 Recon dispatched to Bridge Site 131300 C Co (plus 1 plat A Co ) assigned const. of bridge K546477 131300 A Co (less one plat.) assigned construction of approaches 131800 A Co leaves for advanced Bivouac area 131900 C Co leaves for advanced Bivouac area

JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn ( see 19 September ) ANNEX 2 From: BRIEF HISTORY Battery “C” 467th AAA AW Bn (self-propelled) 13 September 1944 2nd Platoon moved to Hasselt to guard bridge.

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G - 2 PERIODIC REPORT No 88 Hq 30th Infantry Division

HEADQUARTERS 30TH INFANTRY DIVISION G-2 PERIODIC REPORT

From: 13 0001 To : 13 2400

No. 88 Maps: GSGS 2541, 4249, & 4336, 4 - 9 - R1 - R2 - S1 - S2, 1/100,000 1. 1. ENEMY SITUATION AT END OF PERIOD:

a. a. Enemy Front Line: 5754 - 6056, then along high ground NORTH of GEUL RIVER to KRUISBERG (733473).

b. b. Defensive Organization: Dug in infantry with supporting weapons. c. c. Units in Contact: 275 Inf Div which consists of tares CT’s ins principal unit in contact. While there are

many other identifications, and while many PW’s appear to be unaware of the situation, the 275 Div controls all these troops, and recruits its members from stragglers retreating toward Germany.

d. d. Artillery: Estimated two batteries light and one battery medium caliber. e. e. Reserves and other Forces Capable of Intervention: Elements of the following divisions are capable of

intervening in our zone: 49 Inf Div, 271 Inf Div, 353 Inf Div, 9 and 11 Pz Div, and the 176 Inf Div.

2. 2. ENEMY OPERATIONS: a. a. General Summary: Enemy resisted our advance stubbornly on the left flank. On the right flank the enemy

withdrew after a half-hearted defense of dug in positions. In a few cases the enemy ran, making excellent targets. Our troops reported that for the first time there were ample targets for riflemen. At the close of the period enemy thought to have withdrawn generally to the Northeast.

b. b. Component Elements: (1) (1) Artillery: All fire was harassing and fired by single gun and four-gun batteries. Fire was from light and

medium artillery. (2) (2) Engineers: Bridge blown at 713477. Mines and booby traps at 670420. Civilian reports many side

roads MAASTRICHT mined. (3) (3) Aviation: Three JU 88’s going East over sector at 2025. No action taken by either side.

3. 3. MISCELLANEOUS: a. a. Estimate of Enemy Casualties Including Prisoners: Number of PW’s taken for period 208. Total for

operation 350. Total to date 7855. Enemy dead from division zone buried today 2. Total to date 227. Enemy tanks destroyed or captured today 0. Total to date 149.

b. b. Weather: Clear and cool in early portion of period. Cloudy towards close of period. c. c. Miscellaneous: (1) Attached to this Periodic Report is an overlay of additional defenses of the

SIEGFRIED LINE as developed from Arial photos by PI Team no. 27, 30th Inf Div. A limited number of additional overlays may be secured upon request to the G-2. The symbols used are the Martian Legend, copy of which accompanied the Siegfried Defense Overprints, 1/25,000 map issued to all units by Div Engr. (2) 1.: Allied officers attached as liaison officers to British and United States formations of the Allied Expeditionary Force will be given only such information as is necessary to enable them properly to discharge their duties. 2.: It is particularly necessary to safeguard the following information (a) Dates and locations of future offensive. (b) Details covering United States and British manpower. (c) All matters connected with cover and deception. (d) Intelligence obtained from Top Secret sources and the method by which it was obtained. (e) Order of Battle. (f) Top Secret weapons and installations. Information divulged should, where possible, be of a general nature and specific details should be avoided.

4. 4. ENEMY CAPABILITIES:

a. a. The enemy can continue to delay with the forces now in contact. b. b. He can defend on the best terrain possible between the present positions and the WEST WALL using

reinforcements brought up from nearby units. This he may do if he needs the additional time in which to man and prepare the defenses of the WEST WALL in our zone.

c. c. He can counterattack using considerable infantry, a limited amount of armor, in an effort to split the corps drive towards his perimeter defense.

HALL G-2

From: AFTER BATTLE REPORT Hq 30th Infantry Division G-3 Section

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13 September 1944. At 130800B the 117th Infantry, attached Companies A and B, 743d Tank Battalion, continued its attack to the NE to seize CADIER (K615495). The regiment moved with 1st and 3d battalions abreast and with 2d battalion in regimental reserve. Light resistance was encountered and by 131600B the objective had been secured by the 1st battalion. The 2d battalion, attached one Company, 743d Tank Battalion, moved to cut highway leading NE from MAASTRICHT and to establish roadblocks there, accomplishing its mission by 132045B. By 132100B all objectives had been consolidated and the regiment had organized positions for all-around defense with the 1st Battalion NE of SCHIEPERSBERG at (K620497), the 2d Battalion occupying MAASTRICHT and the 3d Battalion N of TERBLYT at (K625530). The regiment’s action for the period resulted in the establishment of a bridgehead for the 2d Armored Division. At 130800B the 119th Infantry, attached Company C, 743d Tank Battalion, continued its attack to the NE with the 1st battalion on the left and the 3d battalion on the right. The 2d Battalion in regimental reserve remained in vicinity of ALTEMBROUCK (K630430). At 130950B the 1st Battalion was held up by enemy fire in vicinity of TERMARR (K658480), and at 131010B a platoon of tanks was sent as reinforcements. Company G was employed around the 1st Battalion’s left flank. With this assistance the battalion pushed forward and at 131135B Company B occupied the town. The advance continued and at 131730B the 1st Battalion had reached its objective SIBBE (K655515). The 3d Battalion encountered light resistance until approximately 131130B when heavy opposition was along the railroad cut in vicinity of VOSBOSCH (K675475). At 131345B the Battalion was reinforced with tanks and by 131430B this resistance had been overcome. By 131515B the Battalion had resumed a rapid advance and at 131710B had arrived at its objective and was in contact with enemy at the northern limits of BERITZENHOVEN (K695490) The 2d Battalion moved forward at 131435B and by 131550B had closed on its objectives of MARGRATEN and TERMAAR vicinity (K655485). At the close of the period the regiment had organized defensive positions an all objectives with the 1st Battalion SE of SIBBE at (K660510), the 2d Battalion in vicinity BRUGSTERBOSCH at (K650475) and the 3d Battalion in the vicinity of (K690495). At 130700B the 120th Infantry, less Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, and Companies A., E, H, and K, moved in division reserve from positions W of the ALBERT CANAL to assembly area southeast of MESCH at (K599117). Leading elements crossed the MEUSE RIVER at 130845B. Movement was without opposition and at 131100B the regiment had closed into its designated area. At 131550B on Division order, the regiment moved to occupy new assembly area in vicinity BILLENHUIZEN (K675460) and closed into position there at 132010B. At the end of the period the regiment had organized all-around defensive positions in vicinity of (K665460). Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, and Companies A, E, H, and K, in Corps Reserve. The 743d Tank Battalion, less Companies A, B, and C moved to positions in vicinity of (K600400) prepared to assist the advance of the division. Companies A and B attached to 117th Infantry and Company C attached to 119th Infantry. The 823d Tank Destroyer Battalion occupied positions to give antitank protection to the division’s sector east of the ALBERT CANAL. The 113th Cavalry Group continued mission of protecting right and left flanks of the division, and maintained contact with VII Corps on the south. The 30th Reconnaissance Troop, Mecz, in Corps Reserve, maintained contact between the 2d Battalion, 120th infantry, and the 2d Armored, Division. Companies A, B, and C. 105th Engineer Combat Battalion, continued in direct support of Infantry Regiments, and cleared roads and minefields in the division’s sector. In addition, Company C in support of the 120th Infantry removed footbridge at (K553366) and constructed new footbridge across ALBERT CANAL at (K549426) and MEUSE RIVER at (K555425) completing this mission at 130630B. The 4th Platoon, Company B, 602d Engineer Camouflage Battalion, conducted inspections of areas of the 30th Quartermaster Company, Cannon Company 117th Infantry, and Batteries of the 967th and 978th Field Artillery Battalions. UNIT JOURNAL 117th infantry Regiment 13 September 1944 Time

in Time out

Serial number

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0830 S-3 tells G-s that Regt moved out on time. 0900 1st Bn states that it is receiving no opposition. 0930 1 G-2 Periodic Report and Notes for Co CO’s filed. 0945 Col Johnson notifies CO 2nd Bn to push up as close behind the 1st Bn as he can. 1000 2 Overlay filed showing dispositions of 1st Bn as of last night. 1005 1st Bn advises that the 2nd Bn is in its zone and pushing up too far. 1007 1st Bn reports that it is 500 yds short of PL #10. 1010 S-3 notifies Div of above message. 1015 3 Can Co position overlay rec’d. 1015 Leading units now ascertained to be at PL #10. 1018 4 Overlay rec’d showing occupation of final objective. 1020 Div informed of progress of our leading units. 1025 S-3 advises that 3rd Bn is going up on the right and that the 2nd Bn is following the 1st Bn -

sniper fire and 20mm is being encountered - 1st Bn 300 yds North of PL#10. 1030 Forgoing message related to Div. 1035 G-3 instructs that 2nd Bn clean out the high ground and continue on to take the town on the

left. 1036 G-3 told of above message. 1038 Correction made by Div to above instructions - 2nd Bn is to clean out enemy where it is -

Not to take the high ground - Is to continue on to town left. 1040 2nd Bn Ex-O advises that town is lightly held with only from 50 to 100 men and no heavy

weapons - He has a direct civilian line with the town and knows what is available. 1045 1st Bn reports its leading elements at Check point “K”. 1055 G-3 to Ex-O - One more Co of tks is going to be attached to the Regt to help in taking the

town - the tks will be attach to the 2nd Bn which id taking the town - S-3 told of above. 1100 S-3 notifies 2nd Bn of message of Div. 1247 Tk Co CO arrives for instructions. 1345 5 G-2 Periodic Report rec’d. 1350 S-3 advises that firing cease on PL#4 minus 700 in vicinity of Right boundary - Arty Ln O

told of this message. 55 6 Overlay rec’d showing Can Co’s positions 15 Tks advise that they are way out in front of 2nd Bn - that the enemy wants to give up - White

flags are being waved. 1417 S-3 Notified of this message and told to get the 2nd Bn up where it can assist the tks. 1420 7 Overlay rec’d showing route of 2nd Bn. 1425 8 Overlay filed showing new route for 2nd Bn 1430 Col Johnson asks G-3 whether the unit on our Right has been notified of the Regt’s new

objective to the front - G-3 states that he is informing them of it now. 1500 2nd Bn states that it entered town of Maastricht, Holland, riding on the tks. 1700 3rd Bn given new objective at 62-53. 1840 3rd Bn advises it is getting arty fire which is believed to be friendly. 1840 Col Johnson inquires of Arty and Can Co - They are not firing. 1850 I & R Plat CO return from 2nd Bn - He states that the 2nd Bn is all of the way through town of

Maastricht and is setting up Rd blocks on the other side of the town. 1855 Col Johnson tells 3rd Bn that the arty being received is enemy and that it is also falling on

the 119th Inf. 1900 Div notified by Slidex of 113th Cav position. 1902 9 Message rec’d from 113th Cav giving position. 1905 Col Johnson to G-3 - 2nd Bn has possession of the entire town this side of the river - 3rd Bn

is moving toward its new objective - 1st Bn has stopped for the night - 2nd Bn states that it has quite a few prisoners.

1908 2nd Bn reports that the 743 TD’S want to pull out before dark Col Johnson orders them to remain where they are since the TD’s are still attached to the Regt.

1910 G-3 tells Col Johnson that 743 TD’s are still attached. 1920 Col Johnson asks Div for a Cav unit to patrol between Regt’l center and the town - Div will

let him know. 1925 2nd Bn notifies Col Johnson that the 743 TD’s are pulling out Col Johnson tells Div about

this and asks that the TD’s be brought back.

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1930 743rd TD Ln O stops withdrawal and orders TD’s back to 2nd Bn. 3rd Bn states that it is 1000 yds from center of objective.

1945 10 Overlay rec’d showing boundaries and objectives for study. 1950 G-3 advises that the Cav will be attached to patrol the area Col Johnson asked about. 1950 Message rec’d from S-3 to Col Johnson that resistance is being encountered on the edge of

the circle. 1955 General Harrison in the CP. 2010 1st Bn reports that it is being shelled. 2010 Col Johnson notifies S-3 to tell 3rd Bn it can button up if its objective is blocked - 3rd Bn is to

pull its tail up and button up the forward elements - No matter what happens the blocks must be put out.

2015 S-3 advises that 3rd Bn has two blocks on the Rd. 2020 Col Johnson asks G-3 for a Civil Affairs Officer. 2020 New CP established as of 1800 at 614 - 493, near town of Cadier - En - Keer, Holland. 2030 11 Radio Message rec’d at Forward CP during the day. 2100 Div Ln O advises that Regt is to sit tight for tomorrow. 2110 Col Johnson tells Bns of this message 2115 S-3 cautions 1st Bn to have Rd Block in leading East and to be on the lookout for a friendly

patrol. 2130 12 Letter of Instructions rec’d from Div. 2145 S-3 to 119th Inf - we are expecting your patrol to contact us at “D”. 2200 13 Administrative order No 46 rec’d. 2210 19 Message rec’d from 113th Cav. 2300 20 Message rec’d from 113th Cav with reference to prisoners. 2330 21 Overlay rec’d showing units of 1st Bn.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 119th Infantry Rgt On September 13, at 0800, the 1st battalion in column of companies moved forward from Banholt and the 3rd battalion on the right with two companies abreast moved forward from Terlinden. The 2nd battalion, in Regimental reserve remained near Altembrouck. Reimerstock was occupied by the 3rd Battalion at 0935, at 950 the 1st Battalion was held up by enemy fire from Termaar and at 1010 a platoon of tanks was sent to help them. At 1035 “G” Company was moving around the left flank of the 1st Battalion toward Hontem and at 1135 “B” Company took Termaar. Friendly artillery fire then help up the 1st Battalion for a short time but by 1220 the artillery had lifted and the 1st Battalion passed through Margraten. At 1136 the 3rd Battalion was meeting considerable small arms fire from the vicinity of the railroad out near Vosbosch and although enemy was reported seen by 1st Battalion pulling out from in front of the 3rd Battalion, 20mm and continued small arms fire necessitated sending tanks at 1345. By 1445 “.“ Company was on the ..... of Ingber and “.” Company with “I” Company on its right were to attack the town from the west. Although the bridge was out where the road from Terlinden crosses the railroad “L” Company reached the main East-West road at 1445 and by 1515 resistance ........ .................. .............. From 1220 on the 1st Battalion made progress and although they were held up by enemy around 1430, the enemy pulled out and were fired on by our artillery. At 1627 a few snipers were encountered by 1732 the 1st battalion was in its goose-egg and was fighting the enemy in Sibbe. The 2nd battalion less “C” Company (which reached Hontem at 1350) started moving at 1435 and at 1550 closed into its objective at Margraten and Termaar. The C.P., moving by bounds, reached its night’s location southeast of Termaar at 1647. At 1525 the 3rd Battalion was out of contact with the enemy and moving rapidly and at 1540 “L” Company was approaching Scheulder, Ingber and Hut. By 1710 the 3rd Battalion had occupied its area and was fighting at Beertsenhoven on its northern edge. Except for Cannon Company this was the last action of the day. At 2130 Cannon Company repulsed a counterattack at Grootwelsden, capturing 6 and killing one. In all we had 41 wounded and took 172 prisoners. From: UNIT HISTORY 120th Infantry Regiment On 13 September, the remainder of the Regiment moved to an assembly area located northeast of Vise. In doing so, it crossed the Meuse River and entered an assembly area near Mouland by 1054. Late in the afternoon, we pushed on into Holland, with the Regimental Command Group crossing the border at 1840 and establishing the Command Post at Reimerstock. Preparation was immediately made for a further advance to the east. Our Division was the first American unit to cross into Holland

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A brief review of the accomplishments of the past was made in a report from Division on this day. Lt. Colonel Hall, in his “notes to Company Commanders”, states: “In less than one hundred days since the landings in Normandy which was given nine hours by the Germans to last on the beaches, Allied forces have swept France clean with the exception of a few isolated small pockets, have liberated Belgium, have entered the Dutchy of Luxembourg, are threatening the Siegfried Line on a one hundred mile front, have crossed into Germany at two points, have reduced the German Army in the west to a fraction of its original strength. This Division for its part played an important role in holding open the routes between the two beaches, helped carry the ball on the line plunge breakthrough at St. Lo, withheld the counterattack at Mortain destroying an important part of Hitler’s armor and four divisions in act, helped to keep up the pressure against the then retreating Germans so that they could not make a stand at the Seine, then made one of the longest, fastest dashes in military history up through France and into Belgium and are now getting ready to knock at the door of Germany itself. Although it cannot be predicted whether or not the knock will be answered, the door itself will be opened.” From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 743rd Tank Battalion 13 Sept 44 - The Mortar platoon attached to “A”, “B” , “C” Companies moved from bivouac area at 0660 hours and arrived at the new area in vicinity of Dalhem, Belgium at 0800 hours. The Assault gun platoon moved to position 632421, but did not fire. At 1745 hours, Mortar platoon moved again to 65504762. At 1600 hours, Assault gun platoon fired battery one round maximum elevation. These shells were supposed to fall in Germany, but missed a few hundred yards. “A” Company left bivouac area 565372 1 ½ mile West of Dalhem, Belgium and proceeded at 1300 hours to 575520, Maastricht, Holland with the 117th Infantry Regiment in an attempt to capture the bridge leading across the Meuse River intact, but the enemy was able to blow them. After capturing the West side of Maastricht, “A” Company remained there in a defensive position for the night. “B” Company, attached to the 117th Infantry regiment moved from Richelle, Belgium at 0520 hours and moved to Mesh, Holland. 1st platoon, attached to 2nd Battalion of the 117th Infantry Regiment moved to Withuis, Holland. The 3rd platoon, plus reminants of the 2nd platoon plus the ¼ ton liaison vehicle were attached to the 1st battalion of the 117th Infantry Regiment. At 0800 hours, a coordinated attack began, the Maastricht - Aachen Highway being the objective. The 2nd and 3rd platoons encountered heavy artillery and small arms fire enroute. A large number of the enemy were killed, wounded, and captured and the objective was reached at 1400 hours. At 1600 hours, the 2nd and 3rd platoons were relieved from the 1st battalion and were attached to the 3rd battalion of the 117th Infantry Regiment. The new objective was the high ground located at 626532. The attack started at 1630 hours and much small arms and artillery fire was encoutered. At 2120 hours, the 2nd and 3rd platoons pulled back about 400 yard and bivouaced for the night at Terblijt, Holland, (627524). The 1st platoon attached to the 2nd Battalion of the 117th Infantry regiment started their attack at 0800 hours and shortly afterwards reached their objective, the Maastricht - Aachen Highway, no resistance encountered. At 100 hours, the 1st platoon was relieved from the 2nd Battalion and was attached to the 3rd battalion of the 117th Infantry Regiment, their task being to cover the left flank. The objective was reached at 1800 hours, and a road block was set up for the night. Company “C” moved at 1300 hours to an assembly area in the vicinity of Reimerstock (665465) still working with 119th. 1st platoon was held in reserve and remained her until 1500 hours, when they joined the company in the bivouac area in the vicinity of Ingber (9676483) at 1800 hours. The 2nd platoon working with Company “A”, 119th Infantry Regiment, seized the town of Sibbe, which was the Battalion objective. During this operation, the 2nd platoon knocked out two 20mm A.A. guns and with the Infantry, entrenched North of Heerstraat, armed with small arms. The 3rd platoon worked with Company “C”, 119th Infantry regiment, and moved out from Reimerstork where the infantry was pinned down by small arms fire. After blasting the enemy positions out with 75mm, the tanks and infantry proceeded to Ingber. At this point, “C” Company tanks blasted the enemy out of trenches that were nearly one mile long and 3 or 4 feet deep. The company then assembled at Ingber (676483) and bivouacked for the night and received supplies. From: UNIT HISTORY 967th FA Battalion Twenty-five bags of mail arrived today for the Bn. There was an hours silence after the mail was distributed. The Bn CO reported to the Gp CO for instructions for reconnaissance and the BC’s joined the Bn CO and selected positions. Bn “march ordered” at 1126 but awaited orders to close station. The Bn was ordered to march and to clear the ALBERT CANAL by 1300. The first vehicle crossed the canal at 1300 and the MEUSE RIVER at 1307. Bn closed in the new area (634430) at 1410. The Air OP registered the Bn. “B” & “A” Btries were assigned the same areas as two Btries from the 978th FA Bn. They had priority and our Btries had to make a rapid move. There was some enemy shelling in the vicinity while we were occupying positions, so it wasn’t necessary to instruct anybody to dig a hole for sleeping – it was automatic. Bn expended 10 rounds of ammunition during the 24 hour period. FIELD ORDER No 24 Headquarters CC ”A”, 2nd Armd Div.

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Hq CC”A”, 2 AD APO 252 In the Field 132300B Sept 44

FO #24 MAPS: GSGS: 4040, France & Belgium, scale: 1/50,000 1. a. See S-2 Periodic Report. b. CC”B”, continues to operate on right of CC”A”. 11th Armd Div (Br) on left. 2. a. CC”A”, 2nd Armd Div, continues attack at 140645B Sept 44 to clear enemy from Div zone N of ALBERT Canal. b. Troops:

82nd Rcn Bn w/Co D, 17th Engr Bn atchd Rcn Co, 66th AR 66th AR (-1st & 2nd Bn, Rcn, Sevr & Maint Cos) w/99th Inf Bn & 1 Plat Co A, 17th Engr Bn atchd 2nd Bn 66th AR (-1Co) 2nd Bn 41st AIR w/Co D, 66th AR & 1 Plat Co A, 17th Engr Bn atchd 14th AFA Bn 65th AFA Bn Brty D, 195 AAA w/Btry B, 467th AAA Bn atchd. Co A, 17th Engr Bn (-2 Plats) Co A, 702nd TD Bn Maint Co, 66th AR Co A, 48th Med Bn

3. a. 82nd Rcn Bn w/Co D, 17th Engr Bn atchd, move at 140645B Sept 44. Maintain contact between 66th AR (-) & 2nd Bn, 41st AIR reinf. Protect left (N) flank of CC”A”. Maintain contact with 11th Armd Div (Br) on our left. Rcn in CC”A” zone. b. Rcn Co, 66th AR, maintain outpost at K457596 until further orders. Move on order to right of 2nd Bn, 41st

AIR reinf. Protect right flank of CC”A”. Rcn in zone. c. 66th AR (-) reinf, attack at 140645B Sept 44, to seize successive objectives indicated (see ovly). Move in multiple columns wherever routes permit. d. 2nd Bn, 66th AR (-1 Co) remain in present location in CC”A” Reserve, prepared to move on 30 minutes notice. e. 2nd Bn 41st AIR reinf, attack at 140645B Sept 44, seize successive objectives indicated (see ovly). Move in multiple columns wherever routes permits. f. 14th AFA Bn , in direct support of 2nd Bn, 41st AIR reinf, in general support of remainder of CC”A”. g. 65th AFA Bn, in direct support of 66th AR (-) reinf, general support remainder of CC”A”. h. Btry D, 195 AAA Bn, w/Btry B, 467 AAA Bn atchd, support 14th AFA Bn,65th FA Bn, Maint Co, 66th AR

& Serv Co, 66th AR. i. Co A, 17th Engr Bn, (-2 Plats) secure N side of bridge at K336629 j. j. Co A, 702nd TD Bn, remain in present location, move on order. k. k. Maint Co, 66th AR, remain in present location, move on order. l. l. Co A, 48th Med Bn, support action of CC”A”.

4. No change. 5. a. Current SOI, 2nd Armd Div.

b. b. CP, CC”A”, remains present location until 140630B Sept 44, thereafter follows axis of 2nd Bn, 41st AIR reinf.

COLLIER Comdg.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 2nd Armored Division

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13 Sep: Shortly after midnight on 13 Sep, CC ”A” began assembling its forces in the north sector of the 2nd Armd Div zone, and crossed the ALBERT Canal near STOCKROYE, four miles northwest of HASSELT. 2d Bn 41st AIR was the first unit across and took over positions of the 82d Armd Rcn Bn north of the ALBERT Canal in the 2d Armd Div zone. The attack of CC”A” jumped off at 0645B with 3d Bn 66th AR ( less Co G ), Co F 41st AIR and one platoon of the 17th Engr Bn in its left column. 2d Bn 41st AIR (less F Co), Co G 66th AR and an engineer platoon composed the right column. The right column seized its first objective the road junction north of HASSELT on the north bank of the ALBERT Canal, at 0740B. Enroute to GENCK, this column encountered numerous roadblocks of fallen trees which had been boobytrapped and mined. Several minefields covered by machine gun and mortar fire were encountered. The left column also ran into formidable terrain obstacles and AT defenses. Marshy areas confined tanks and other vehicles too roads. At the close of the period, CC ”A” had cleared the enemy from the Div zone in the area west of the general line of the north-south road through GENCK. 14th Armd FA Bn fired direct support for CC “A”, and seven concentrations were fired by Div Arty in support of the attack. Other units with CC ”A” were Co D, 195th AAA AW Bn (SP) (with one plat Co B 467th AA Bn), Co A (-) and Co C, 17th Armd Engr Bn and Co A, 48th Armd Med Bn. 82d Armd Rcn Bn was attached to CC “A”, and covered the Combat Command’s left flank, contacting the British 11th Armd Div. Co A, 82d Armd Rcn Bn ambushed an enemy force in the vicinity of VUCHT and EYSDEN, along the VAART Canal, and killed 186 men. The mission of CC “B” during the attack of CC “A” was to prevent crossings of hostile troops south and west of the ALBERT Canal in the Div zone. Other Div units conducted maintenance and reconnoitered for crossings over the canal. From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “A” On September 13, The Company CP remained at the same place. The 1st platoon went north and east to the town of OPITTES, driving the enemy out of the town inflicting casualties and setting up an OP to observe the WILLEMS Canal. Position of OP had to be shifted because of heavy artillery fire. After considerable difficulty, artillery support came from the British to the north but the fire was not very effective. The 2nd platoon sent a patrol due east through NEERBLABEEK to WATERLOOS from the wooded area south of WATERLOOS. The patrol was able to count 186 Germans washing clothes and basking in the sun around a house. A British reconnaissance officer assisted and the platoon was put into position to fire, one vehicle at a time. After mortars were set up, ammunition laid out and available weapons made ready for fire, the platoon opened fire with very devastating effect as the Germans were not prepared nor were they dug in. Due to the terrain and to 88mm guns across the canal, it was impossible to overrun the position. The platoon then withdrew leaving an OP. This OP reported that at least 150 casualties were inflicted and that German first aid men were carrying the Germans across the flat to the canal all afternoon. This position was saturated by German artillery and 88mm guns firing air-bursts. It is believed that the 88mm guns could not depress sufficiently to actually hit this spot. The OP had to be shifted slightly. The 2nd platoon, later in the day , drove a German patrol out of WATERLOOS. The platoon then withdrew when the town was shelled by the Germans. The 3rd platoon remained in position killing three Germans when the enemy sent forward a patrol. This platoon also received several rounds of artillery believed to be coming from one gun located to the south. From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “B” 13 September1944: Company CP remained in area at K430673 until 1300B at which time the Company CP moved to new area at K360661. The entire Company assembled at 1400B. 1st platoon moved to MOLEN to cover the movement of Combat Command “B” in its attack on GENCK. Reconnoitered the right flank of Combat Command “B”. Rejoined the Company at 1400B. 2nd Platoon again moved to position occupied on the previous two days drew only small arms fire. Platoon moved into enemy position when 3rd Platoon moved in on left flank. Encountered 6 Teller Mines 300 yards in front of enemy positions. Platoon rejoined Company at 1330B. 3rd Platoon moved east through woods along north bank of canal to pick up enemy stragglers. Scout section removed 8 teller mines and took one prisoner. One ¼ ton truck was destroyed by enemy mines. (Weather- Fair and Cool.) From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “C” On the 13th of September the Company moved to BERKINERS at first light. The Company CP set up near BERKINERS. The 1st platoon made contact with the British at HELCHTEREN and maintained this liaison through the day. The 2nd and 3rd platoon pushed reconnaissance to the east and made enemy contact in a wooded area 1 ½ miles north of WINTUALAG. The tow platoons set up strong outpost and remained in position for the night. The area was shelled by our artillery and the enemy withdrew during the night. From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “D”

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On September 13th the Company moved at 1645 to a new bivouac at 4987 six kilometers north of OPGLABEEK. Arrived at 1900B. traveled .. miles. Company “A” and Company “D” were given the mission of clearing enemy out of territory from DORNE to WILLWEM Canal. Battalion Executive commander joined us in this area and was in charge of the operation. From: UNIT HISTORY 66th Armored Regiment 13 September 1944 The 3rd Battalion left the assembly area at Krempt at 0630 and advanced against slight enemy opposition. The 2nd battalion left its assembly area in the vicinity of Stevoort and moved to a point North of Kempenschehide without being committed. The 66th Armored Regiment was reinforced and under the command of Colonel Stokes consisted of the following elements: Headquarters 66th Armored Regiment, 3rd Battalion minus “G” company , 99th Infantry Battalion, 65th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 82nd Reconnaissance Battalion, Detachment Company “A”, 48th Medical Battalion. Casualties sustained: Sgt Norman M. Fabry — Light Wounded in Action (LWA)

Pvt Virgil Riley — Light Wounded in Action (LWA) From: REPORT OF OPERATIONS (1 - 30 September 1944) Hq 66th Armd Regt 13 Sept 1944 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt (reinf) left assembly area vicinity KERMPT at 0630B advanced along axis encountering slight enemy resistance while enroute and succeeded in reaching a point 401666 where they secured for the night. (See overlay #7). 2nd Bn, 66th Armd Regt, left assembly area vicinity of STEVOORT proceeded to assembly area NORTH of KEMPENSCHEIDE (324650) without being committed. At 18OOB 13 Sept 1944, 66th Armd Regt (-) Reinf, under command of Commanding Officer, 66th Armd Regt, consisted of the following troops: (See Annex #8).

Hqs 66th Armd Regt 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt (-G Co) 99th Inf Bn 65th Field Arty Bn Det Co A, 48th Med Bn 82nd Rcn Bn, Reinf with Co D, 17th Engr Bn.

The 65th FA Bn went into position to support the force at 1815B as shown. The 99th Inf Bn reported at 1950B and was disposed as shown (see overlay #8). 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt, was at the time under control of Commanding Officer, CC"A" and engaged with the enemy. It was not until 2200B that they were able to secure themselves for the night and at that time they reverted to control of Commanding Officer, 66th Armd Regt. Companies A and B, 99th Inf Bn, were attached to 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt, and were used to outpost and secure the line held by 3rd Bn, 66th Armd Regt, remainder of 99th Inf Bn were assembled in area as shown. 82nd Rcn Bn with Co D, 17th Engr Bn attached were protecting left flank of the Corps, with outposts and patrols as indicated. From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 67th Armd Rgt 13 Sept.: Regiment less 1st and 3rd Bn., Rcn. Co., and Mt. Co., remained in bivouac morning 13 Sept on one hour alert to move. Alerted to begin movement at 1430B to new assembly area at vicinity 405527 (vicinity HOMBROEK). Tentative operational plans were to put 67th Task Force across bridge being built by engineers into the “Island” West of MAASTRICHT, the ALBERT CANAL, and MEUSE river. Bridge was constructed under enemy fire at 545475. This plan was to be carried out in conjunction with a provisional Bn. of the 120th Inf (30th Inf. Div.). The provisional Inf. Bn. had already crossed into the Southern part of the “Island”. 67th Task Force was to cross and attack North on the West, abreast of the Prov. Inf. Bn. and clean out the “Island”, and secure crossing for CC”A”, who were fighting their way East on the North side of the ALBERT CANAL. CC”A” was meeting fierce enemy resistance. Regiment was alerted for combat prepared to execute the CC”B” plan, and waiting for final CC”B” F.O. Regiment remained on one hour alert. Difficulty at the bridge cancelled movement plans for the day. In the meantime, the Provisional Infantry Bn. 120th Inf. attacked North up the “Island” and were well on the way in

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cleaning the South half of enemy. Overlay issued at 2020B for defense of the area for the night, and patrolling. Regiment remained in assembly area vicinity 405527 (East of HOESSELT) for the night. No operations. From: UNIT REPORT 702nd Tank Destroyer Bn September 8 -13, 1944: The Battalion remained in the 2nd Armd Division area in the vicinity of Herck La Ville (K195635), Belgium accomplishing maintenance of radios and vehicles from 8 Sept to 13 Sept 1944. The battalion less Companies “A” and “C” under control CC”B” moved from vicinity of Hulsen, Belgium (T267568) to vicinity of Ker berg, Belgium (K404492) on 13 Sept 1944, assisting the attack south of the Albert Canal. One pillbox was destroyed by direct fire of Company “B”. Several MG positions and other strong points were encountered and destroyed. Twelve prisoners were taken during this action. From: MONTHLY OPERATIONAL REPORT Hq 41st Armd Inf Regt September 13th : 99th Infantry Battalion attached to Division Reserve 1030B. Division Reserve Commander contacted 1st Battalion, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment and CC”B” during day, also reconnoitered crossings in vicinity Eben Emael. 99th Infantry Battalion detached from Division Reserve and attached to CC”A” 1630B. Liaison maintained with CC”A” and CC”B” during day. Maintenance of vehicles and equipment continued by all units of Division Reserve. All units of Division Reserve maintained security during period assigned sector of Division Reserve. Meeting of all available officers Division Reserve from 1930B to 2000B. Orientation and outline of general situation by Division Reserve Commander. From: OPERATION REPORT 17th Armd Engr Bn 10 - 13 Sept: Bn (-) remained in vicinity of Hasselt and did maintenance. Reconnaissance was made of Albert Canal for possible crossing. Co C constructed 180 - foot floating treadway bridge across Albert Canal northwest of Hasselt, 12 Sept. Rcn Plat strengthened bridge at K330620 same day. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “A” 17th Armd Engr Bn 13 September: Co, less 2 platoons, moved to an area near HASSELT (K351637). On orders from CG, CCA, Co (less 2 platoons) was ordered to secure east side of new Bailey Bridge across the canal. No resistance encountered. OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn ( see 15 September ) ANNEX 3 From: OPERATION REPORT Company “C” 17th Armd Engr Bn 13 September: In same area. 1st Plat maintained bridge until relieved by Rcn Plat at 1500 hrs. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “D” 17th Armd Engr Bn 13 September: Moved to 306698. 1st Plat swept area east of HASSELT Road for mines. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “E” 17th Armd Engr Bn 13 September: Removed 180’ Floating Bridge across ALBERT CANAL at K273666. S - 2 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division 13 September 1944

Time Serial Time INCIDENTS, MESSAGES, ORDERS, ETC

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Time in

out No.

1 12 Sept Fr 2AD: G-2 journal 12 Sept msgs 1 to 44 13 Sept msgs 1 to 5 2 To PWI 82 Rcn: CCA PWI now moving forward on south axis. Suggest you

handle PW’s on north axis. Let me know your location 3 Fr 14 FA: Record of concentrations fired from 111845 to 121930 4 0913 Fr S-2 82 Rcn: 82nd PW now loc at intersection 333665 5 0915 Fr 2 AD: Booby traps rptd along ditches both sides of rd with trip wire firing device

at 409618 6 0925 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol at 374676 rpt contact. Patrol rpt minefields at 360660

but no enemy contact 7 1100 Fr 195 AAA: Several unidentified aircraft over area between 122030 and

122045B 1 unidentified aircraft over area at 122245B 8 1120 To All Units: Noon today to noon tomorrow password 9 1140 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: At 349748 in contact with British soldiers. Observed

undefended rd block. Can hear large demolition to south. Another patrol at 550788 has contacted enemy with small arms fire

10 1145 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol rpt several minefields vic 360660 and 375667 and 362657

11 1200 To G-2 2 AD: PWs state their orders are to retire to Genck also state 1st and 2nd SS Div moving into area E of Genck. An SS Hq has been captured at 328661. Documents being forwarded

12 1300 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Our patrol observing canal vicinity of 561799. Report bridge destroyed on canal. Woods very thick to the south and some enemy patrol have been seen. Our patrol is advancing S along canal

13 1325 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Rpt area W of 34 grid and north of 80 grid 929 to canal clear of enemy but bridge destroyed

14 1410 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol at 570780 moving SE along canal. Ambushed and killed 186 enemy by actual count. More were killed across the canal. No count on these. All bridges all destroyed

15 1425 To 2 AD fr 702 TD: Arty falling at 400650. Road block 200 yds East of that point 16 1600 Fr Hq 30 Corps A/tk Group: Following info given by Belgian civs: 9 - 105mm guns

in cemetery Opglabbeet 494743, 2 - 105mm guns in Winterslag 428678 and 4 (?) hows canal and rd crossing E of Bree 5285. AT guns Stalenheide 436688 - 439682. M/9 west Opglabecker 448708 mines on rd 369679 to 392668 on rd 468737 to 479726 and edge of wood partly covered with branches etc. Mines on road 459676 transport approx 200 vehicles and equipment in woods 542700. All observed during past 3 days by Belgian engineer name unknown. E of wood along rd 5084 - 4978 has always been used as petroleum store but not known whether still sound. Following info from another civilian: 1 tank Mk VI and 3 rcn cars 423651 motor transport 429703 mines 427657, 2 - 88mm 426665 all date of observation unknown

17 1605 Fr 41 AIR: Civilian rpts area 526583 contains enemy land strip and is well defended. RR bridge and North road bridge at Maastricht rpts blown

18 1645 Fr 41 AIR: Higher Hq. rpts ammo freight cars sitting RR station Sittard 6968 are booby trapped to explode when moved

19 1720 To 2 AD fr CCB: Mortar enemy line reinforcements unknown 1830 20 1745 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Troops and equipment in woods at 522700. Gas dump in

woods 5084 to 4978. Mk VI tank at 923651. Trucks on road at 429703 mines at 429703 2 - 88mm guns at 426665

21 1800 Fr PWI 38: Interrogation report #31 22 1800 Fr Rcn 66: S-2 rpt #93 23 1830 Fr Maint Co 66: Negative S-2 report 24 1910 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: 3 tanks puled out of 401707 and moved to 410698 at 1856.

Arty coming from vic 430800 25 1915 Fr 2 AD: 82 Rcn rpts 9 - 105mm guns at cemetery 494743 26 2000 To Div Arty S-2 fr S-2 14 FA: Enemy casualty report

1500 27 12200 Fr 82 Rcn: PWI report 28 Fr PWI 38: Report on documents examined 29 2200 To G-2 2 AD: S-2 report #91 with PWI report #31 30 Fr 3 Bn 66 AR: Enemy casualty report

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31 2300 Fr 2 AD: G-2 periodic rpt #88 with annex A S - 3 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division 13 September 1944

Time in

Time out

Serial No.

Time dated

INCIDENTS, MESSAGES, ORDERS, ETC Action taken

0130 1 TO: All Units - FO #23 (w/ovly) F 0310 2 FR: 14 FA - S-3 Rpt #12 F 0310 3 FR: A/48 - S-3 Rpt #103 F

0710 4 TO: CG 2 AD - Sitrep crossed LD 0645B - no contact R 5 TO: CG, 2 AD - Sitrep - Left col coiling short of Able - Rt col

combing woods vic obj one elem proceeding to obj two Phone

0830 6 FR: 66 AR - S-3 Rpt #92 F 0830 7 TO: CG, 2 AD - Sitrep Rt col at the turn btwn one & two - there are

fallen trees across the rd & these trees are mined it will be necess to disarm mines before moving trees - or pick way around them to left - col will push off fr Able in five min. The unit btwen Rt col & lt col going rt along & are well fwd

Phone

0940 8 To: CG, 2 AD - Sitrep right col on two - mopping up Left col Able plus one mile

Phone

0945 9 TO: CG, 2 AD - Sitrep right 2 mopping up left Able 1 mile Phone 0950 10 TO: CG, 2 AD - Sitrep - Left col at three cleaning up right at two

mopping up - Pointer (82) elem rptd three ey tanks at five - one 88mm in woods N of five

Phone

1030 11 TO: All Units - ovly extension to FO#23 R 1300 12 FR: 2 AD 82d rpts sev minefields vic 360660 and 375667 and

362657 R

1340 13 TO: CG, 2 AD - Sitrep - Left col obj 5 less 1000 rec fire fr high grd E - Rt col obj H less 1000 held up by rd blk - rec mortar and direct AT fire

R

1355 14 FR: A/48 - Our Correct location (KU REYZC) R 1450 15 TO: CG, 2 AD - Sitrep - No material chng in fwd posns. Progress

being made agst rd blks R

1450 16 TO: CG, 2 AD - Engr Rpts bridge complete by 131700B R 1630 17 FR: Rcn/82 - S-3 Rpt#94 F 1735 18 FR: A/17 - Engr Rpt #104 F 2038 19 FR: 99 Inf - BMP closed in area A 2030B R 2100 20 FR: 66 / AR - Ovly enroute to KN M 2130 21 FR: 14 FA - S-3 Rpt #13 F 2135 22 FR: A/48 - S-3 Rpt #104 F

23 FR: 2/66 - S-3 Rpt #88 F 24 FR: 2/66 - S-3 Rpt #89 F 25 FR: 2 AD - WP K234618 closed F 26 FR: 82 Rcn - My CP at 365641 F 27 FR: A/17 - Location K371645 closed 1915B - Wp loc A352629

open 1930B F

28 CP moved fr K302704 at 1215B 29 Coiled off rd at 1235B 30 Moved at 0810B to new assy area, closed 1845B 31 Ey planes over CP at 2200B dropped flares 32 FR: 2/66 - Ovly disp security F

G - 3 JOURNAL 2nd Armored Division 13 September 1944

NO IN OUT MESSAGE 860 13100 FR XIX CORPS: Sitrep #193, as of 122400B; 30th Inf Div 117th Inf - 1st Bn 610453,

2nd Bn 585446, 3 rd Bn 60043. 119th Inf - 1st Bn 650456, 2nd Bn vic 630440, 3rd Bn

71

660445. 120th Inf no change. 113th Cav Gp, no change. CP’S; 30th Div 555366; 117th Inf 587426; 119th Inf 631423. Units of 30 Div advanced against continuous enemy resistance.

861 130330 FR CCA: FO #23, 3 copies, dated 122345B. 862 130330 FR LN OFF CCA: 2nd Bn 41st AIR only outfit across. 2nd Bn 41st AIR have taken

over positions of 82nd Rcn Bn. 863 130400 FR CCA: Negative report. 864 130500 FR CCA: Negative report. 865 130510 FR 41ST: All quiet. 866 130610 FR 41ST: All clear. 867 130615 TO HQS CMDT: All men up and alert. 868 130635 FR G-2: G-2 periodic report #87, 122300B. Journal, items 1 - 37 869 130645 TO CCA: Platoon of 467th AAA guarding bridge will stay there as long as the bridge is

there. 870 130715 FR 702ND TD: S-3 report #103. 871 130715 FR AG: Aircraft recognition #12 872 130730 FR PRIMER: CC”A” reached their first objective at 0722B 873 130730 FR 62ND FA BN: S-3 report #95 874 130800 TO CG, G-1 and G-4: As of 130745B. CCA jumped off at 0645B, left col (3rd Bn 66th

( - 1 Co) reinf ) has advanced one mile with no contact, still moving. Right col (2/41 (- 1 Co) reinf ) taken obj #1 at 0740. Obj #1 is RJ 1 mile N of HASSELT.

875 130800 FR 11th British A.D.: From Bassinor. Eleventh A.D. reports no change. 876 130710B FR CC”A”: Right Col L D 06453, no contact. 877 130815B FR CC”A”: Left Col coiling short of Able. Right Col combing woods vic Obj #1.

Elements on way to Obj #2. Main portion of Col cleaning out area around Obj #1. Soon as completed will move on #2 enmasse.

878 130850B G-2: Neiderlandisch Landsturm Bn, a Dutch SS Unit of 4 Cos, 140 men each, identified CR 2 miles N of Hasselt.

879 130900B FR CG 2 AD: All C-3 and C-3A inter aircraft communication lamps will be turned into the Div Signal Officer prior to noon Sept 15 PD acknowledge by message when turn in completed.

880 130900B FR CC”A”: Right col at turn between phase lines #1 and #2 . Fallen trees mined. Left Col pushed off from A at 0845. Group in between both Cols Fwd of both.

881 130900 FR CC”A”: No change except trees across Rd which were mined are removed. Col starting to move

882 130915 FR CG 2AD: Booby traps reported along ditches both sides of road with trap wire firing devices at 409618.

883 130915 FR 30 INF: From Bacon to G3. 117th 1st Bn , 610452, 2nd Bn 585445, 3rd Bn 600438 CMA 119th 1st Bn 635963 2nd Bn 630440, 3rd Bn 660447 CMA. 120th no change.

884 130945 FR CC”A”: Right Col on Obj, mopping up. Left Col one mile beyond Able. 885 130955 FR CC”A”: Col West authorized the Foll changes. Made by drawing straight line from

390504 to 490480 to form new S boundry to CC”B’s” area. 886 131000 FR CC”A”: Left Col at 3 clearing up. Right Col at 2 clearing up.

FR Pointer: 3 enemy tanks at 5. One 88mm N of 5. 887 131030 FR FUSA: Letter, Subject, Violation of Geneva Convention by enemy forces. 889 131030 FR XIX CORPS: Letter on Instruction #29. 890 131030 FR FUSA: Map supply and distribution. 891 131030 FR 92nd FA, Maj Cunningham: S-3 Report. 892 131115 FR XIX CORPS: G-3 Periodic report. 893 131155 FR CC”A”: Left Col at Obj #3 plus 1200, no contact. Right Col at Obj #2 plus 1000,

light resistance some prisoners taken. 894 131155 TO CG, G-2: Left Col at Obj #3 plus 1200, no contact. Right Col at Obj #2 plus 1000,

light resistance some prisoners taken. 895 122340B FR 11 AD: 11th AD expects to consolidate area and do maintenance for two or three

days PD. No real changes of front lines this or GDS Armd Divs PD from Bassinor to 6, three and LSN control please report progress CC”A” for British PD.

896 131155 TO 30 Inf: - Att: Lno 2 AD: Report 30 Inf Div now.

72

897 131125 FR CC”A”: Left Col X-ray minus 2000. Right Col obj #2 plus 2000. 898 131200B FR 17TH ARMD ENGR BN: S-3, Periodic Report. 899 131205B TO 11TH AD LN OFF: Left Col CC”A” at K663668. Right Col CC”A” at K 380645. 900 131235B FR CC”A”: Will advance and consolidate on Xray. Progress slow due to enemy

resistance. Necessary to walk Inf. 901 131240B TO CC”A”: Consolidate what is necessary on Xray, but get to Yoke. 902 131130 FR 11th AD (British): Urgent CMA 11th AS request if two AD inten as attacking opitter

5482 CMA as stated by eight two Rcn to British PD Possibility of shelling 569788 by British PD from BLB PD. Reply now PD. No changes front elements here PD1

903 131130 65th FA Bn ordered to move into your area and establish liaison with 14th FA Bn. Will move at once.

904 131325B To Ln Off, 11 (Br) Armd Div: No plan to attack Opitter. 82nd contacts British and recn’s N flank of CC”A”. Only thing in way of shelling would be our 82nd.

905 131300B Fr G-2: Pointer reporters several minefields vic 360660 and 375667 and 362657. 906 131115 Fr LNO 113th Cav: 2nd Bn 119th Inf 710390. 3rd Bn 119th Inf 650438. 2nd Bn 117th

Inf 589442 3rd Bn 117th Inf 597434. Encountering scattered small arms fire and light artillery.

907 131330 Fr CG XIX Corps: Sitrep NR 194 as of 131200 2nd Armd Div, CC”A” left Col K270704, Right Col K370634. CC”A attacked at first light and moved to present .osn s meeting moderate resistance and cleaning out area covered. CC”B area extending into 30th Div Zone was altered by adding a line drawn from 390504 to 490480. 30th Inf Div 117th Inf, 1st Bn 6104.. 2nd Bn 584445, 3rd Bn 612452, 119th Inf 1st Bn 650481, 3rd Bn 667475, 2nd Bn moving up. 120th Inf 1st and 3rd Bns moving across river. 2nd Bn Vic Ft Eben Emeal attached to 115th Engr C Gp. 113 Cav Gp, Elms at K6646, 684., 6643. CP’s no change.

908 131310B G-2: Valve report (FO) enemy attempted to cross at 526550- East to West. Air OP is observing Crossing now.

909 131330B Fr 11th AD (Br): verify Coordinates of msg 131205B rd from BLB PD. 910 131345B Fr G-2: Patrol at 349748 report contact with British soldiers. Patrol at 492760

bypassing huge undefended roadblock. Can hear large demolit to their South. Another patrol at 550788 has contacted enemy w/small arm fire only.

911 131430 FR G-3: PW’s state their orders are to retire to GENCK (429651) also state 1st and 2nd SS Divs moving into area E of GENCK. Hq has been captured at 328661: documents being forwarded.

912 131430 FR CCA: CP located 355637 movement East 913 131430 FR 30TH DIV: 1/117 at 1200 at 514485 encountering sniper and 20mm flack. 2/117 at

600470 to 603475 moving NW to NR 4 Rd thense N to MAASTRICHT no resistance. 3/117 620468 to 627466 adv N no resistance/ 1/119 650489 to 657488 encountered strong enemy resistance along main NR 4 Rd. Adv against stubborn resistance. 3/119 667475 to 671475 enemy resistance all support weapons except arty. 2/119 assembly area 645453. 120th Inf closing into assembly area 580410. 2nd Bn Corps res location no change.

914 131500 FR 195TH: Msg sent to AA Officer XIX Corps by 195; this msg to confirm telephoned info from S-2 12th AAA Gp to S-3 195th that AA defense of bridge being constructed by 247th Engrs across locks of Albert Canal at K337629 will be provided during construction and life of crossing by XIX Corps. CG, 2 AD thru G-3 has been informed that protection will be so provided.

915 131515 (item previous- ly omitted )

FR LN OFF XIX CORPS: 21 Army Gp sitrep 121900 4th Canadian AD slowing bad tank country 9791 Bruges. 2nd Canadian Inf Div clearing coast to exclude Dunkirk (H28). 1st Br Corps Le Havre good progress heavy opposition, deep penetrations into outskirts. Custom arty fired on (obs fire) enemy assem areas K5843, K 5844, K6444. Fr 113th approx 175 dug in enemy w/bazookas and AT gun 564434. 1st Inf Div crossed German border K8037 at 1515. Custom CP moving to vic 630420. 1/117 610485, 2/117 600473, 3/117 613461. 1/119 654486, 2/119 640550, 3/119 640476

916 131530 Items not previous- ly entered

FR 1st DIV: 12 Sept, Disposition fwd ele 1st Inf Div 26th Regt at 663370, 662971, 672378. Tr A 125th Cav Sq contacted elements of 26th 1st Inf Div. 16th Regt of 1st Inf Div now in Germany. White flags reported flying in AACHEN (Fr 113th Cav Sq)

917 131530 Items not previous- ly entered

FR LN OFF XIX CORPS: 125th Cav 6454, 650445, 630440. 117th Regt 565430. Elements 1st Inf Div crossed German border 1515 hrs at K7041 and K8339 with no trouble. CCB 3 AD K9129 elements of 30th Inf are across Meuse R in strength K5644 - k5335.

73

918 131545 FR CCA: Sitrep no material change in forward positions progress being made against road blocks.

919 131555 FR CCA: CP located at K355636 920 131555 FR CCA: Engineer reports bridge complete by 131700B 921 131645 FR CCB: CP located at K401518 922 131705 TO CO 66 TH AR: Have two Lts report to G-3 Air this Hq at 0900 tomorrow for training

in operation of air to ground radio. Will return to you same evening. 923 131700 FR 11th ARMD (Maj Bassinor) : no change in front line location of Gds Armd or 11 th

Armd. Cleaning out area and waiting on supplies. Br request latest locations CCA, Please radio me. Also what general plan for tomorrow.

924 131745 TO 11th ARMD (Maj Basinor): CCA on Xray. Sending column around N to E. terrain poor. Rcn Bn killed 200 attempting to get in by footbridge. Continue tomorrow.

925 131750 FR 82 ND RCN: S-3 report #94, 122300B 926 131750 FR AG: Opns Memo #5, .............. 927 131750 FR XII ARMY GP: Battle Experiences, ............................. 33 928 131825 FR 11TH ARMD (Maj Bassinor): Br just reptd 2 tks or SP at 406701, identity

unknown. 929 131827 TO G-2: info in msg #928 930 131830 FR AG: Ltr, Sub: Morning alert. 931 131912 FR CCA: CCA reports both columns at Xray in physical contact. Regrouped here and

gave the infantry mission of securing Xray and the town at this point and of pushing on if possible to streamline running NE from Xray. Opposed apparently by battalion of Dutch Nazi. Opposition stiff, needing bayonet and hand grenade to overcome.

932 131915 FR 30TH DIV: G-3 periodic report #91, 130200B. Letter of instructions, 122100B. 933 131920 TO PM: Notified to mark road from HASSELT to new bridge over ALBERT CANAL. 934 131930 FR LN OFF CORPS: 4th Cav fwd el 938067 - 905063 - 975005 1400 hours, no

resistance. 117th Inf 610745 - 600462 - 605448. RR bridge MAASTRICHT blown, 2 road bridges that remain prepared for demolition. Road heavily mined 615532.

935 131945 FR G-2: Pointer reports 9 - 105mm guns in cemetery 494743 and 2 at 428678. 4 Hows at 5244- 2 at 439682, MG nest 448208. Minefield 369679 to 392668 and from 468737 to 478726; 422708 to 429710 at CR at 479676.

936 131945 FR G-4: CCA has 45 operational miles. 937 132030 FR CCA: Extension to overlay to accompany F) #23. 938 132045 FR 142ND SIG: S-3 report #101, 132400B.

FR TN HQS: S-3 report #104, 132200B. 939 132045 FR 1ST INF DIV: FO #48, 122200B. Situation overlay, 122200B. 940 132140 FR XIX CORPS: 2nd Bn 120th Inf is coming N between 2 canals on the E side of the

W canals to establish a bridgehead at the bridge to be used form crossing at 545478. Warn our units of this so they won’t place artillery fire on them.

941 132140 TO DIV ARTY: Info in msg #940. 942 132155 FR 702ND TD: S-3 report #104, 132300B.

FR 92ND FA: S-3 report #103, 131800B. 943 132200 TO ALL UNITS: Bridge W of HASSELT will go out at first light. Only remaining bridge

over ALBERT CANAL is E of HASSELT. 944 132305 FR 41ST: All quiet as of 2300 945 132330 FR DIV ARTY: Plan of fire for 14 Sept, C/S notified. 946 132330 TO XIX CORPS: Siterp #23 as of 132200 947 132330 FF 1ST DIV: FO #48 948 132330 FR LN OFF 30TH DIV: Custom CP at 630423, to Powerhouse three fr Bacon, 1/117

610494 on obj Dog, 2/117 570585 in MAASTRICHT, 3/117 620478, 1/119 on obj Easy 660505, 2/119 480660, 3/119 685490 on obj Fox. 120th moving to assembly area vic 450670 less one Bn which is at 562445. Request info of CCA

From: SUMMARY OF EVENTS 99th Infantry Battalion (Separate) On 130730B September 1944, the battalion moved to Lerinpt in the vicinity of St. Trond. At 1800 the unit moved to Winterslag Cite where they secured the city and railway bridge.

74

From: REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) ( see 18 September ) ANNEX 4 From: UNIT HISTORY 16th Infantry Regiment (1st Inf Div) Regiment in the process of moving to objectives in the vicinity of Aachen with the 3rd Battalion meeting very stiff resistance, four miles south of Aachen. A counterattack, with extremely heavy artillery support, was sustained by the 1st Battalion, with heavy casualties resulting.

Thursday 14 SEPTEMBER 1944: G-2 DOCUMENTS & MESSAGES HQ XIX CORPS 14 SEPTEMBER 1944

JOURNAL COVER SHEET

Reports, Periodic Reports, Documents, Team Reports, Facsimiles (pertinent items to be listed on Journal Sheet), Visitors, Events, etc. received. Time Recd

From

No. of Copies

Type of Report

Disposition

0140 FUSA 1 1st Phase Inter….. Rpt # 143 PI 0300 2 TD 1 S-2 Periodic Rpt # 48 File 0300 2 AD 2 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 88 W/R – VII Cp 0300 PWI 23 1 Interrogation Rpt – 13 Sept Capt Burns 0800 Corps Engr 1 Engr Situation # 92 File 0825 30th 1 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 88 File 0915 G-3 1 G-3 Periodic Rpt # 79 File 1115 VIII Corps 1 G-2 Periodic Rpt #88 W/R 1115 VII Corps 1 ea MII 414 + 419 Daily Rpt 1115 30th Corps Br 1 Rpt File 1500 C/S 1 Letter of Instructions # 31 1515 V Corps 1 G-2 Periodic # 98 W/R 1515 VII Corps 1 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 100 W/R 1515 APH Intelligence notes # 71 1515 1st Army 6 G-2 Periodic Rpt # 95 See file copy 1515 1st Army 1 PWI Rpt O/B 1930 APID 1 Daily Opns Rpt # 63 PI 20 2245 XIX Arty 2 Periodic Rpt No 86

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master (VII Corps) Time

Rec’d 0630

Person Calling Master Rec’d by Capt Pamp VII Corps enemy front line 7841 – 8836 – 9232 – 8920 – Light contact 8218 – 9900 Met stronger resistance yesterday, delaying actions from AT guns, pillboxes, X Mg and mortars. South of AACHEN they met heavy AT fire against their armored units, and they had trouble with Dragon’s teeth. S E of EUPEN there was vigorous resistance from small groups of tanks and Inf.

75

Journal 1 Dissem: G-2, W/R

FROM G-2 30TH INF DIV TO G-2 XIX CORPS BT SECRET RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING FROM 117TH INF REGT AND AM PASSING IT ON TO YOU “ J. C. HARDEMAN OF MAASTRICHT RAILROAD ENG. DESIRES TO WORK WITH OUR RAILROAD ENG. “ PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO ARMY. BT 132359 AS CCNS NONE

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Belgium Agent G-2 Time

Rec’d 140030

Person Calling Rec’d by Capt Pamp OP Canne 545476 or farther east a Mercedes factory underground - - natural caves - - opposite bridge Canne looking east on right bank 80 meters left. Artillery flanking the bridge there River Wurm has ford Obach-Palenberg – a man can pass – river 4 meters wide. La Goeul river is 4 or 5 meters wide. Journal 2A Dissem: 30th Inf Division phoned

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 0530

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Capt Pamp Countersigns for period ending 1200 hours 18 Sept 44 have been compromised. Alternate STEEPLE CHASE will be used until 181200 Sept. 44.

2nd AD and 30th Inf Div notified by TWX 113th Cav Gp notified by radio Mgs

AG XIX Corps will notify all Corps units Arty

76

Journal 2B Dissem:

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit 30th Division Time

Rec’d 0715

Person Calling Lt Kline Rec’d by Col Crystal Dug in Infantry with supporting Infantry weapons delayed our advance. No new identifications. Arty fire very light, mostly single gun. Along the river the enemy withdrew fast giving riflemen excellent targets. The enemy withdrew to Krewsberg. 208 PW’s including 50 through clearing station. Bridges are out. Journal 2 Dissem: W/R

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 0810

Person Calling Maj Rozmus Rec’d by Maj Graybill Victor Front – Approx enemy front line: P9797 – L0595 – 0389 – P9886 – 9984 – 9683 – 9480 – 9277 – 9373 – 8972 – 8870 – 8669 – 8465 – 8658 – then generally along Siegfried Line to L1027 – 0620 – 0919. Activity was reported throughout the period in the vic P9400. Enemy attacked with tks at 1800B and made slight gains our rcn elm. Determined resistance throughout period at P9273 – 8664 S of Echternach L0535. Mopping up operations continued West of the Fort. 48 prisoners. Journal 3 Dissem: W/R, G-3

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit 21 Army Gp Time

Rec’d 0940

Person Calling Ln Off Rec’d by Maj White

SITREP 2400 hours

30 Corps – 11 AD advanced elm K4479 – 4487. Gds AD adv elm K3998 – 3697 – 3498 50 Div area K27

12 Corps – 15 Div adv elm K1290 – 0390. 7 AD in area J7878 – 7275.

8 Corps – No change.

1 Canadian Army – 2 Cdn Corps – Polish AD Ghent J18 with armd brigade at 3888 4 Cdn AD line J0598 – 09405.

1 British Corps – 51 & 49 Div relieved by 4 S.S. Brigade area Le Havre.

Organized resistance ceased there.

77

Journal 4 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master Time

Rec’d 0950

Person Calling Rec’d by Maj Graybill Col Dickson wants fastest information on proclamation issued by Germans on Rhineland. Did they declare it a military zone restrictions placed on civilians, steps toward evacuation of civilians Journal 4A Dissem: Divisions phoned

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 141130

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Maj Graybill On Siegfried line installations information urgently requested regarding following points: 1. Thickness of roof, 2. Presence of I Beams, 3. Date of construction.

Journal 5 Dissem: 2nd and 30th phoned

113th Cav Gp, Engr, W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time Rec’d

1115

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Maj Graybill ISUM for period ending 131800B. XIX Corps, enemy continues resistance along East West road running into Maastricht from W of Gulpen (K7049). 30th Div troops are crossing, however at two places along road. Resistance chiefly small arms, mortar an 20mm fire. No arty fire rec’d. At K6648 front line bends SW to point at River at 665440. Reliable civ source reports that in area Zolpich (F2333) Duren (F1246) and Euskirchen (F3330) German soldiers are arriving from Finland. Source also states civilians being evacuated from Aachen, Eschweiler (K9648) and Stolberg (K9442) back to E bank of Rhine were they will work on construction of defences. PW taken at K7049 from 176 Arty Regt of 176 Inf Div, which said to command only four bns of inf. VII Corps Cavalry elm meeting no enemy resistance at K938067 – 905063 – 975005. Prisoners taken by 3rd Armd Div states section Siegfried Line vic K910290 has been manned during last three days. 328 Ersatz Bn committed at K923325, strength 400 men. 9th Inf Div reports enemy tanks at K845090, enemy inf at K860075. Scattered resistance along S portion of V Corps front. Enemy patrolling reported Vic P851571. Enemy resistance stiffening near Northern portion German -Luxembourg Border where enemy is believed defending Siegfried Line. Some MG fire from pillboxes. Trucks and digging heard last night vic P8920, indicating defense may be there. Small counterattack at P9174 was easily repulsed. PW said 2 SS Pz Div CP located at L143955 and that Div was to defend along line L040900 – F030019 beginning today. 7 PW taken near N boundery of Corps from 7 Pz Gren Regt according to preliminary report. This regt is from 7 Pz Div, last reported in Russia.

78

Journal 6 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 1115

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Maj Graybill 12 August 116 Pz rcn Bn SW Aachen. 156 PGR vic K7640 – 7441. 9 Pz Div E of Hergenrath (K8036). 105 Pz brigade reported by civ at Eyhatten (K8334). CP Div Hq 2 SS Pz Div Manderfeld (L0190) Maj White Journal Dissem:

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1230

Person Calling Capt Hewitt Rec’d by WBS In Maastricht some troops on W side of river in town. No opposition yet. Unit of Custer is moving up from S. Last report they were on K49 grid line between 55 and 56. Last night Custer’s white unit encountered 300 enemy. Identified 6th Inf at town vicinity 5547 square Enemy withdrew NE. Father E we have strong patrols in Volkenberg 660535. They report all bridges blown, meeting some small arms fire across stream. Further to E on stream town in 7049 square is negative. Antelope met some resistance at 737472. 10 rounds of 150 fire just fell in Maastricht from NE.

Journal 7 Dissem: W/R, G-3, Arty, Master TAC phoned

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit 2nd Armored Division Time

Rec’d 1410

Person Calling Major Trahan Rec’d by Maj Graybill Our Rcn has reached 542766 where they are in contact with some German paratroopers.

Journal 8 Dissem: W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

79

From Unit Co C 507th MP Bn Time Rec’d

1600

Person Calling Rec’d by Carroll Civilians report that there are 18 Germans in the forest at Norduwez. This town is South of Tirlemount. Civilians state they have machine guns and rifles. . Journal 8A Dissem: G-3

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit CG 30th Div Time

Rec’d 1415

Person Calling TWX Rec’d by Maj Graybill

Information by TP from power plant in Roermond (7890) to power plant in Maastricht: Thousands of Germans concentrated in area (98) from 3 to 10 kilometers inside German border ( in Germany about opposite Roermond). Mostly located at Brocht, Bruggen, Amern, Elmpt, Waldniel, Niedertrachter, Obertruchten, Merbeck, Wegberg, Arsbeck. ( All these are foot troops, many wounded in France. Concentrations of Cav in woods – Bracht er Bosch and Ellmpter Bosch. Other concentrations at Walderseucht and at Rheydt and Dunken (E of Roermond). More info to come. Another agent reports Germans trying to destroy mines near Heerleen (7655) RR brs at Rothen and Neersen are about to be blown by Germans who will knock out cable and TP wire. Germans have blown power plant at Amar. Power plant at Hendrik has not been blown. Population digging holes near Roermond (mil Map 58) 1557. Near bridge in vicinity mine fields at 1558, 1558, 1559, 1659. 3 AT guns and barbed wire along rd Roermond – Horr at 1557. AA guns in AT role on Meuse and W of Roer R at 1657 – 75 to 80mm. Others E of Meuse near Harber vicinity 1657. Armd car in 1755 square. Lot of traffic between Settart (6968) and Geleen going N and fresh troops moving S. At Berg (6269) pontoon ferry with large clms uniting to go East. Custom to ask for air. 20 tks going E at Sittert. Large iron bridge across RR N of Meth is being mined. Lindenheuvel near Statemin Mauritz was OK at 1300. 8500 KW capacity. Geertruidenberg, Nymegen powerplants furnish power for all Holland. S of Galeen NE of Neerbeek heavy tanks firing S. At Steinerveld at V Street are 6 5” guns pointed S. Many Germans. Large clms of cars going from Sittard which is 11 miles N. S of Geleen at Krajvinkle one heavy gun firing S. 150 camouflaged infantry going from Sittard to Geleen.

Secondary road Beek thru Neersbeek to Geleen fortified with wire and bushes.

Journal 9 Dissem: W/R, Arty, 2nd Armd, 113 Cav

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom 2 Time

Rec’d 1600

Person Calling Sgt Bidwell Rec’d by Carroll PW captured in the vicinity of Sibbe 6551 were from Paratroop Training Regt Greve. There were 2 Bn’s in the Regt and they had only Carbines and MG’s that they knew of. They were in Maastricht yesterday where they were tangled up with our tank attack. They were leaving in small groups for Germany, they were in Italy and brought back to Germany for reorganization and rearming and were committed or

80

formed about the 2nd Sept. 44

Journal 10 Dissem: W/R, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Master 2 Time

Rec’d 141645B Sep 44

Person Calling TWX (Col Dickson) Rec’d by Capt Cavanaugh ISUM period ending 140900B Approximate enemy lines XIX Corps K7345 – 6253 – 5754 – 5550 – 5649 – 5349 – N of Albert Canal to 4262 along RR to 3870. Seventh Corps K7841 – 8836 – 9232 – 8920 – 8218 – 9900. V Corps P9797 – L0595 – 0389 – P9886 – 9984 – 9683 – 9373 – 8972 – 8465 – 8658 along Siegfried Line to L1027 – 0620 – 0919. Enemy continued delaying action from road blocks, pillboxes and AT gun positions. South of Aachen heavy AT fire was used against our armored elements and considerable difficulty was experienced with dragons teeth. Mopping up operations continued W of German border. Journal 11 Dissem: W/R, C/S, Arty, G-3, Divs

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Phantom Time

Rec’d 141900B Sep 44

Person Calling Ln O Mr Cleghorn Rec’d by Capt Cavanaugh VII Corps 1 Div, 1500 hrs, 16 Regt through first defended line 855386 and at 850387 opposition ceased. 26 Regt report leading elements 8439 in contact with enemy but enemy arty firing from Aachen. 18 Regt clearing road at 8139 in contact with enemy pillboxes. 3rd Armd Div report 1545 hrs. Combat Comd moving to 885365 protecting left flank of Div. 9 Div report 1530 hrs. 47 Regt reached 949305 held up by bad roads. Bridges blown by enemy covered by fire but battalion reached 954365 – no contact with enemy. 39 Regt fwd elms reached 969270 – receiving mortar fire. Journal 12 Dissem: W/R, C/S, Arty

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit Custom (OB Team) Time

Rec’d 141945B Sep 44

Person Calling Rec’d by Sgt Pound

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Captured enemy map indicated the following: As of 13 Sep At K531526 – 2 Mgs on hill At 534538 – more MGs AT guns at K532533 K534532 – AT guns 542543 – Bn CP Enemy had 2 Co from K530550 to K525528 Powerhouse phoned Civilian reports: Many inhabitants of Wassenaar have been killed by MG fire from airplane which were attacking the starting place of V-1. It would be more practicable to bomb Estate of Raaphorst, which is starting place of V-1. Another starting place Meijebijl behind Raaphorst. Master phoned Journal 13 Dissem: W/R, Arty, C/S

G-2 XIX CHQ MSG

From Unit 30th Div Time

Rec’d 2130

Person Calling Golden Rec’d by Sgt P Civ RPTS: 200 Germans dug in with few MGs and rifles along N side of branch of Albert Canal: LANACKAN K5356 proceeding NW along canal to GELLICK 5055 bending N to BEEREN – BROEK and proceeding further W: Also 3 105mm in woods approx vic of ROELER – HE 495582: 200Germans in woods on hill vic LANAEKER – HEIDE 5258: ( Civ reports as of last night )

Journal 14 Dissem: W/R, 2 AD

G-2 PERIODIC REPORT #92 Headquarters XIX Corps

From: 140001B Sept 44 To : 142400B Sept 44

No. 92 Maps: No change 1. ENEMY SITUATION AT END OF PERIOD

h. h. Enemy Front Lines K-7848 – 710484 – NW along RR to 600556 – 567540 – N along MAAS River to Corps beurcary at 6273.

i. i. Defensive Organization Road blocks which consisted of felled trees, scattered mines and booby traps were used extensively by the enemy in his delaying attempts. Small groups of infantry have also fought from dug in positions at critical points. Trenches have been constructed on the high ground N of the railroad which runs from NW to SE in the vicinity of VALKENBURG.

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j. j. Units in Contact From NW to SE: Attachments of the 176th Div, including the 1st Bn of 1st SS Gren Regt Landsturm “Nederland”, and 275th Inf Div. In addition to many miscellaneous units listed in the Consolidated Corps PW report, the 30th Inf Div made contact with 827th Volga Tartar Bn and SS “Wallone” unit, which may be the 5th SS Volunteer Strumbrigade “Wallonien”

8. 8. ENEMY OPERATIONS DURING PERIOD

c. c. General Summary XIX Corps: The enemy fought a delaying action in the sector during the period. Road blocks, mines and booby traps were combined with infantry weapons., light scattered arty and 20mm fire to attempt to delay our forces. MAASTRICHT was cleared without heavy fighting, there being only some isolated sniper fire remaining. On the front of the 30th Div the enemy has been pushed back to the high ground N of the railroad in the vicinity of VALKENBURG. Resistance did not appear as stubborn as in the past several days.

d. d. Artillery Artillery fire during the period was light and scattered with some falling on both MAASTRICHT and VALKENBURG.

VII Corps: South of AACHEN heavy anti-tank fire was used against the armed elements. Heavy machine gun fire was also received from the SIEGFRIED LINE but with penetration of the line itself resistance greatly decreased. It was reported arty did not destroy pillboxes in the line but force the enemy to move out after a few rounds. The enemy was forced back in one place to K9538.

V Corps: Heavy enemy resistance was reported against the V Corps advance elements with some tanks being destroyed in counterattacks.

3. MISCELLANEOUS

Weather – Partly cloudy skies prevailed throughout most of the period. The forecast for the following period is broken clouds throughout the 24 hours with scattered showers during the morning.

CIC Dispositions

Tirlemount St. Trond Tongres Hannert Maastricht

5. 5. ENEMY CAPABILITIES See extracts from Intelligent Summary (to be issued separately)

WASHINGTON PLATT Colonel, GSC

G-2 3 Incl. Annex #1 – Consolidated Corps PW Report Annex #2 – Translation Captured Document Study of Western Germany – XIX Corps sector Distribution: FUSA (3) 179th FA Gp 30th Corps (British) V Corps (2) 258th FA Gp CG XIX

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VII Corps (2) 8th FA Gp C/S VIII Corps 119th FA Gp (5) G-3 TUSA 228th FA Gp (5) W/R 2nd Armd Div 113th Cav Gp (3) Engr 1st Inf Div 16th AAA Gp Sig 28th Inf Div 68th Med Gp Air O 30th Inf Div 1104th Engr Gp (4) Arty (2) 79th Inf Div 1105th Engr Gp PI 20 2nd Sig Bn 1115th Engr Gp (5) MII 424 175th Med Bn 3252 Sig Serv IPW 39 743rd Tank Bn 12th Army Gp File (10) 744th Tank Bn 21st Army Gp 749th Tank Bn Det Zu, 21st MWU 2nd TD Gp (2) Msg Cen (2) 7th Armd Gp 49th AAA Brig 12th AAA Gp 8th Corps (British) ANNEX #1 TO PERIODIC REPORT #92 Headquarters XIX Corps Annex #1 to Periodic Report #92

CONSOLIDATED CORPS PW REPORT FROM 122400 TO 132400

Total PWs reported from cages of Corps units for the period: 931 Breakdown of PWs according to units follows:

Div No, of PWs Regiment or Separate Unit No. of PWs Capturing Unit ? 1st SS Gren Regt Landsturm

“NEDERLAND” 112 2nd Armd Div

? 525 Security Bn 5 2nd Armd Div ? 16th Security Regt 28 2nd Armd Div & 113th Cav

Gp 275th Inf 141 Kampfgruppe “GRANDE” 76 30th Div &

113th Cav Gp Kampfgruppe “FUNKE” 27 30th Div Kampfgruppe “DIENELT” 10 30th Div &

113th Cav Gp Kampfgruppe “RIEDEL” 13 30th Div Kampfgruppe “LAESSIG” 14 30th Div 984th Regt AT Co 1 30th Div ? Prcht Repl & Tng Bn 55 113th Cav Gp ? Kampfgruppe “GREVE” (Prcht Res Regt) 162 30th Div ? 736th Security Bn 68 30th Div ? Prcht Repl Bn 59 30th Div ? SS “WALLONE” 8 30th Div ? 365th Inf Repl Bn 129 30th Div 348th Inf 13 863rd Regt 4 30th Div 864th Regt 9 30th Div ? Belgian Rexists 21 30th Div 827 Volga Tartar Bn 52 30th Div 78 Stragglers from the following 34 units 30th & 2nd Armd Divs

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& 113th Cav Gp

3rd Prcht, 18th GAF, 84th Inf, 85th Inf, 176th Inf, 331st Inf, 347th Inf Divs; 53rd GAF, 191st Security, 149th Inf, 149th Arty, 195th Inf, 422nd Arty, 276th Arty, 1708th Arty, 263rd Gren & 937th Gren Regts; 148th Marsch Bn, 485B Local Defense Bn, 357th , 736th & 657th Security Bns, 518th & 623rd Supply Bns, V GAF Repl Bn, 770th Landesschuetzen Bn, 45th 309th & 554th AA Bns, KGs “DETMOLD”, “LUTZE”, & “GIERIG”, plus civilians and Russians.

3 3 a. SS Gren Regt 1st Landsturm NEDERLAND was organized mostly from Dutch personnel with an

admixture of other nationalities from a Landwach Regt which was supposed to be doing Police and guard duty in Holland. Gut together in HERTOGENBOSCH, Holland, early in 1943, its contains three Bns of four Cos each, .lns, 13th , 14th & 15th Cos, 4th , 8th & 12th Cos each have four 37mm AT Guns and two 76,2mm Russian guns. 15th Co is said to be the Regt Hq Co. 1st Bn only is said to be in action, the remainder of the Regt remaining in Holland. Co strength varied greatly: PWs from 1st Co said their Co was 50 strong, while men from 2nd Co said their Co was 100 men strong.

b. b. 176th Inf Div: 176th Arty Regt is said to be in position 8 – 10 miles NE of HASSELT; is said

to contain four battalions of three batteries each. According to PW, all batteries had four 105mm Horsedrawn guns.

c. c. 2nd Bn, 16th Security Regt was combined with KG “GRANDE” when commander of latter

was knocked out. Co of 2nd Bn, 16th Security Regt (PW) said that combined units were about 350 strong, but either wounded or dispersed at time of captured.

5. 5. Total PWs taken by Corps units to date: 18,969 IPW TEAM #39

ANNEX #2 TO PERIODIC REPORT #92 Headquarters XIX Corps Annex #2 to Periodic Report #92 TRANSLATION FROM CAPTURED DOCUMENT

Desertion and Inadequate Leadership

Battle Group Gebhardt CP 12 September 1944 To: CO, Gren Regt 1 Landsturm Bn Nederland

Sgt Zwaag, a medic, was ordered Saturday September 9 to bring back wounded in the vicinity of GENCK. He did not return. Cpl Schulz, likewise a medic of the 3rd Co, disappeared at the same time. It can be assumed, because Zwaag comes from Brussels and Cpl Schultz is a good friend of his, that both deserted together.

It is an intolerable condition, because the wounded could not be given aid. As a result a wounded men shot through the lungs lay five hours in his slit trench on Monday September 11, before he was evacuated.

In a sector 12 km long, confidence in the medical profession is not possible with a dentist as a battalion doctor and a not fully authorized doctor as his assistant, and two medics. In addition no ambulance or truck is on hand to evacuate the wounded, and if a carrier is sent back, either the medic or the driver deserts with his car. Dr. Pilz reports that the house where the ambulance detachment was, burned down. The Bn therefore ask that an ambulance, two medics, and particularly hypodermic syringes be sent.

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After the death of 1st Lt Vollmers, the 2nd Co went completely to pieces. 2d Lt Schuster is not in the position to lead the company. He has already failed as platoon leader. His platoon was scattered in every way except the northerly direction to the front. At the improper time he visited an adjacent battalion commander to make contact, although he had lost nothing there, but, on the contrary, had to make contact with the adjacent company. When he came back to his men had given their weapons to their neighbours and were trying to get them back. Whether Schuster knew that his company commander had been killed is unknown to me.

He is also incapable of making and keeping contact betweenC1, combat trains, and supply trains, much less keeping in contact with the Battlegroup. He can be reached neither by messenger nor telephone. I therefore ask for the assignment of a suitable company leader.

The Battle Group requests the assignment of a Signal assistant commander.

The Battalion ask for 3 – 37mm AT guns, because already some of these weapons have been lost in battle.

Translation from Captured Document – Cont’d

ENEMY ORDER OF BATTLE 176 Division

I. Battle Group Gebhardt 1st Bn, SS Landsturm Grenadier Regiment 1 14th Co, SS Polizei Regt 3 Battle Group Muller Battle Group Borchert Battle Group Heide Replacement and Training Bn 286 Arty Bn 6 Battle Group Stuper Replacement and Training Bn 464 Replacement and Training Bn 159

Replacement and Training Bn 193 Bn, Arty Regt 176 Inf Engineer Replacement and Training Co 69

6th Arty Regiment 176th Arty Regiment

Engineer Replacement and Training Bn 6 Engineer Replacement bn 26 Rcn Replacement and Training bn 15 Signal Co 176 Army Anti-Aircraft Bn 276 Heavy Army Anti-Aircraft Bn 668 Anti-Tank Bn 534 or 843 Replacement and Training bn 167 II. 176 Division, organized probably as shown above, was assigned the defense of MAASTRICHT. This is not

a division within the ordinary meaning of the word, but merely a divisional headquarters staff (Divisionsnummer) for the administration of attached units. It was formerly a mobilization and training division on Wkr VI. On 11 September 176 Div received an administrative order from a Parachute Army Command (Fallschirm Armee Oberkommando), but other than that there is no indication what Corps or Army the division belongs to now.

Since documents do not reveal the exact composition of Battle Group Muller and Borchert, some of the units listed separately further down may actually be included in these Battle Groups.

159 and 193 Replacement and Training Bns belonged formerly to 166 Training Division ( ex-Denmark)

Battle Group Gebhardt is the 1st Bn of SS Landsturm Nederland Grenadier Regt 1. This Regt was stationed in Hertogenbosch, Holland, consisting of 2 Bns, 13th cannon Co, 14th At Co, and 15th Engr Co, 300 men in all, armed with normal infantry regt weapons, including 6 – 75mm Inf Hows and 12 – 37mm At guns. Apparently the 1st Bn was sent to Maastricht while the 2d and 3rd remained behind. Personnel consists of

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Dutch volunteers of the SS, some of whom according to paybook evidence, “volunteered” as recently as after the Allied invasion. Some of these volunteers seem to take the first opportunity to desert. In a memorandum from Battle Group Gebhardt to Regt Hq, a complaint is made that medical personnel deserted when they were ordered to go out and bring in the wounded.

In the same note, a request is made to replace the 37mm At guns lost or destroyed in combat.

SPECIAL STUDY – SIEGFRIED LINE XIX CORPS SECTOR, Sept 44.

HEADQUARTERS XIX CORPS Office of AC of S, G-2

U.S. Army

BELGIUM 14 Sept 44

SPECIAL STUDY – SIEGFRIED LINE

XIX CORPS SECTOR, Sept 44 1. General

This is an analysis of the Siegfried Line between Aachen (exclusive) (8343) and Orsbeck (exclusive) (8977). The critical points named in the study reading from S to N (Aachen to Orsbeck) are:

Kohlschied (8350) Gilenkirchen (8664) Randerath (9067)

This study should be used in conjunction with the special maps of the Siegfried Line, Germany 1:25,000 (GSGS 4414; the Siegfried Line Overprint on “Carte de France et des Frontiers a 1:200,000” (1912), Sheet 2 and 5; special study distributed by this headquarters with G-2 Periodic Report 2 Sept; and G-2 Study “Western Germany – XIX Corps Sector – Cologne” 12 Sept (Dist C.) The Siegfried Line in our sector is a continuous obstacle extending across the whole Corps front. It was here constructed to implement the natural obstacles formed by the Wurm River and in the N 5 km of our sector the Wurm and Roer Rivers. The only portions of the line not formed by a water barrier are immediately N of Aachen. This city is on a ridge with a ridge line leading into it from our sector. To make up for the lack of the river barrier across this ridge line, the Germans here constructed the only dragons teeth AT obstacles in our whole sector. For over 70% of its trace in our sector, the water barrier is backed up by a railroad line that leads northward out of Aachen. This railroad follows the Wurm River. To keep its track as straight as a railroad requires, numerous cuts and fills had to be constructed in the meandering streambed. The German military construction was tied in to the river and railroad obstacles described above. Where these two do not form a good obstacle, there defenses have the greatest density. The pillboxes are roughly 3 km in depth behind the river – railroad line. At only one point in the line is there an appreciable thinning out of these pillboxes. This occurs at the point where the Wurm River Valley joins the Roer River Valley. This junction is itself a barrier to cross country movement; to protect it the greatest concentration of pillboxes in the whole sector occurs on the nose S of the junction (E of Randenrath).

2. Obstacles

No defenses other than possible minefields and barbed wire exist W of the Wurm River, except on the Aachen nose N of Kolschied. From this point the only dragons teeth in our sector start the line which stretches away 10 km to the SW. The Wurm River approximates 10 feet in width ( maximum 20 ‘ ) throughout our sector. Its banks and valley are not a formidable obstacle. The ridge east of the river generally overlooks the terrain on the west side of the river. The railroad cuts in places are bridged by road overpasses 80 to 100 feet long. The cuts are steep. Cut or fill occurs during approximately 30% of the railroad’s track along the Wurm River. Supplementing the river and railroad are minefields, AT ditches and stone walls; particularly S of Gilenkirchen. This is the area that most needs them, as the main East – West road through our sector cuts the Siegfried Line at Gilenkirchen.

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Pillboxes occur wherever the terrain indicates a profitable use of a machine gun or AT gun. It should be remembered that the basic design of the Siegfried Line called for the employment of mobile field armies operating out of it. The defense was to be an aggressive counterattacking force basing its offense from the Siegfried Line. The hedgehog principle of all around defense later developed in Russia was not used in its construction. As opposed to the French Maginot Line, no huge fortresses housing heavy caliber guns, ect., for a static defense were constructed. Thus, virtually all the concrete pillboxes in our sector have the following characteristics: Limited fields of fire. (40 to 50 degrees).

Incapable of housing any weapon larger than the 37mm AT gun which was standard for the German Army in 1939. 4 to 6 feet of concrete overhead and a similar amount underground; walls 5 feet thick. Normal pillbox personnel is dependent upon the size and number of openings; roughly a maximum of 7 men per embrasure. Excellent camouflage concealment, materially aided by four years of disuse and natural growth. Excellent prepared paths of fire. There are a very few pillboxes that may be able to use up to a 105mm cannon. These, in general, are at least 3 km east of the river and occur only once every 5 km.

Several dense patches of forest are scattered along the line. These appear on aerial photos to be dense enough to handicap armored maneuver. They likewise furnish excellent concealment for both sides. German concrete underground shelters, probably for command posts and administrative officers, were constructed in these forests wherever available.

9. 9. Communications

The majority of the works were linked with each other by communication trenches. Only the larger works in rear are thought to be linked by underground passages. There is a fairly extensive network of buried telephone cables ( 6 feet deep )between the works.

10. 10. Observation

Ops from underground emplacements with a 7 inch steel cupola occur roughly one per km. These are usually linked by underground cable to pillboxes, Hq and villages in the vicinity.

11. 11. Recent Activity

Recent activity shows an increase in light AA btrys along the line particularly in the vicinity of Aachen. Numerous hastily constructed AT ditches have been observed under construction. Photo coverage of 10 Sept show these ditches still being worked on.

12. 12. Experience to our South 12 Sept

Today our 1st Inf Div and 3rd Armd Div have both been fighting inside Germany and contacted the Siegfried Line in their zones. This took place in the Aachen area.

They received heavy artillery fire. From concrete emplacements they received small arms fire. Some of the emplacements they encountered were not manned. Those that were manned put up stiff resistance.

Routes leading up the line were blocked by large steel beams and railroad rails sunk into the roads at narrow points. Huge craters had been blown near approaches at strategic points. Steel cables were found across roads and obstacles to prevent tanks making reconnaissance without removing or going around them. Likely bypasses were heavily mined with antitank and antipersonnel mines.

All these obstacles are defended by infantry and AA automatic weapons fire.

Our progress against them has been slow but steady. The first task was to eliminate the troops protecting them and then clear out the obstacles. V Corps pierced the outer defenses on a 10 km front. The Regimental CP of the 109th Inf of our 28th Div is now in one of the pillboxes.

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13. 13. Additional Information

Attached herewith are photographs and plans of the type of emplacements and installations which will be encountered in our sector. As additional data become available they will be immediately disseminated to the most concerned. Any questions raised that are not covered in these or referenced documents should be transmitted to G-2 XIX Corps immediately. A reference file is available to all at this office.

( Signed by Lt. Col Crystal for) WASHINGTON PLATT Colonel, GSC G-2 G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 196 HQ XIX Corps FROM: CG XIX CORPS 141310B

TO: CG FIRST ARMY MAIN, CG FIRST ARMY TAC, CG 30 TH BR CORPS, CG VII US CORPS, CG 2D

ARMD DIV, CG 30 TH INF DIV, CO 113 TH CAV GP, CO 2D BN 120 TH INF, CG IX TAC, (ATTN G-3’S)

SITREP NR 196 AS OF 141200B SEPT 44: 2D ARMD DIV CCA CONTINUING ATK AND CLEAR AREA N OF ALBERT CANAL.

ELM CCA AT 4367, 4365.

STUBBORN RESISTANCE ENCOUNTERED.

2ND BN 120 INF, AT 542505. MOVING N AGAINST ENEMY RESISTANCE. 1 CO, 2 BN , 117 INF CROSSED MEUSE AT MAASTRICHT, CROSSING MADE FROM E AND W BANK. 113 CAV SQ VIC 765470. NO OTHER CHANGES.

G - 3 SITUATION REPORT No. 197 HQ XIX Corps FROM: CG XIX CORPS 150100B

TO: CG FIRST US ARMY, HQ FIRST ARMY TAC, CG 30TH BR CORPS, CG V CORPS, CG VII CORPS, CG

2D ARMD DIV, CG 30TH INF DIV, CO 1115 ENGR C GP, CO 7TH ARMD GP, CO 113TH CAV GP. (ATTN G-3’S)

SITREP NR 197 AS OF 142400B SEPT 44:

2D ARMD DIV CCA FOUR (4) COLUMNS DISPOSED AS FOLLOWS: K560705, K566650, K487615, K552574. CCB VIC K2755

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CP 2AD AT K464508 30TH INF DIV 117TH INF NO CHANGE. F CO CROSSED WEST BANK OF MEUSE RIVER REPORTED MAASTEICHT CLEAR AND REMAINED IN POSITION UNTIL CONTACTED BY 2D BN 120TH INF.

119TH INF 1ST BN OCCUPIES VALKENBURG K660538

2ND BN - NO CHANGE 3RD BN K675494 - K691484 120TH INF - NO CHANGE 113TH CAV GP FWD ELMS 113 TH CAV GP K695482, 710481, 714478, 725475, 746470

G - 3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 14 September 1944 FROM: DETACHMENT ZU 21 WEATHER SQUADRON 140700B TO: G-3 ARMOR FWD (WAR ROOM), AG ARMOR RR, HQ COMDT ARMOR RR

CEA (G-2) ADO (G-2) BT: FOURTEEN SEPTEMBER ONE NINE FOUR FOUR WEATHER FORECAST FOR XIX CORPS SECTOR FOR 140800B to 150800B SEPT 44. LOW OVERCAST WITH LIGHT INTERMITTENT RAIN THRU THE MORNING AND EARLY AFTERNOON. BROKEN CLOUDS IN LATE AFTERNOON AND EVENING WITH SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS THIS EVENING AND TONIGHT. ONLY FAIR VISIBILITY IN LIGHT FOG AND RAIN THIS MORNING, BECOMING GOOD THIS AFTERNOON. VERY LIGHT EASTERLY WIND THIS MORNING BECOMING LIGHT SOUTHERLY THIS AFTERNOON. LITTLE CHANGE IN TEMPERATURE. UNFAVORABLE FOR USE OF SCREENING SMOKE. UNFAVORABLE FOR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY. UNFAVORABLE FOR AIR ACTIVITY AND GROUND OPERATIONS THIS MORNING, IMPROVING THIS AFTERNOON.

G - 3 WEATHER REPORT HQ XIX Corps 14 September 1944 FROM: DETACHMENT ZU 21 WEATHER SQUADRON 141855B TO: G-3 ARMOR FWD (WAR ROOM), AG ARMOR RR, HQ COMDT ARMOR RR

CEA (G-2) ADO (G-2) VBH (G-2) BT: FOURTEEN SEPTEMBER ONE NINE FOUR FOUR WEATHER FORECAST FOR XIX CORPS SECTOR FOR 142000B - 152000B SEPT 44. LOW BROKEN CLOUDS THIS EVENING AND TONIGHT WITH SCATTERED THUNDERSHOWERS LATE TONIGHT AND EARLY TOMORROW MORNING. BROKEN MIDDLE CLOUDS TOMORROW MORNING. LOW CLOUDS FORMING IN EARLY AFTERNOON AND BECOMING BROKEN BY EVENING. VISIBILITY FAIR IN MORNING HAZE, GOOD IN AFTERNOON. CALM TONIGHT BECOMING LIGHT WESTERLY TOMORROW MORNING. COOLER TOMORROW MORNING, LITTLE CHANGE IN TEMPARTURE IN AFTERNOON. MODERATELY FAVORABLE FOR SCREENING SMOKES. UNFAVORABLE FOR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY. UNFAVORABLE FOR AERIAL ACTIVITY IN THUNDERSTORMS, FAVORABLE OTHERWISE. FAVORABLE FOR GROUND OPERATIONS.

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WEATHER OUTLOOK FOR SUNDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER 44. TREND DETERIORATING SOMEWHAT. INCREASED CLOUDINESS WITH LIGHT INTERMITTENT RAIN. MODERATELY FAVORABLE FOR GROUND OPERATIONS.

A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL FORWARD ECHELON Hq XIX Corps

IN

OUT

SERIAL

NO.

TIME

DATED

INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

1600 1 Lt Col Johnson has been notified to inspect the machinery in Fort Eben Emael. A.C. of S., G-4 JOURNAL REAR ECHELON Hq XIX Corps

IN

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INCIDENTS, MESSAGE, ORDERS, ETC.

1130 1 Contacted Capt Jergen, S-4, 702d TD Bn, attached to the 2d Armd Div. He repts his M10’s have gone as high as 1700 mis without a maint check. He stated his Bn is to be withdrawn to an Army Ord area for complete overhaul. His fuel consumption has been excessive due to condition of equipment.

1300 2 Capt Sellers & Lt Longsworth contacted Capt Westm S-4, 744th Lt Tk Bn in re to operational mi for Bn. He gave figures which appeared on supporting rpt to Col O’Shea. The only supply problem he had at the present time was question of winter clothing and equipment. Contacted Capt Youngs, QM Sec who stated First US Army is working on matter and as soon as results are known he will let the Sec know. The issue of the third blanket will be 1 Oct and the fourth, 14 Oct.

1400 3 Capt Sellers & Lt Longsworth contacted Capt Adkinson, S-4, 743d Tk Bn. He stated there was one difficulty at the present time – that concerned coveralls. Contacted Capt Youngs QM Sec and he stated they were a critical item at present time. The Corps QM Sec was going to contact Army QM Sec today on this item. Capt Adkinson also stated he would like to obtain approximately 2000 fuses, T105, for use in forthcoming operations. Fuses would be used for 75 and 105mm guns. Contacted Capt Kleinmaier, Corps Ammo Sec, and he stated there were none on hand in First US Army other than those now in hands of Units. The Twelfth Army Gp withdrew these fuses from First US Army and released them to Third US Army for operations at BREST with the understanding whatever were not used would be returned to First US Army Units. The data on his gasoline consumption for an operational mi appeared on supporting rpt to Col O’Shea.

1400 4 140600 G-3 Periodic Rpt #99, XIX Corps 1515 5 131800 Adm O #44, VII Corps 1600 6 Capt Sellers and Lt Longsworth also visited 2d Arm Div, 119th FA Gp, 967th FA

Bn, 30th Inf Div, 4045th and 4046th QM Trk Co, 16th AAA Gp and 803d TD Bn regarding their operational mi and data appeared on supporting rpt to Col O’Shea

1630 7 Maj Marshall, G-4 Sec, Fwd, called relative to captured German tool and machine equipment South of EBEN EMAEL.

2200 8 Lt Col Partridge, Ord Sec, called and stated an officer from Ord Sec had checked equipment above and found some in good condition and some which had been in barges which were scuttled and was now under water. Requested this information be passed on to Ord Officer, First US Army.

JOURNAL CHEMICAL SECTION Hq XIX Corps

IN

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INCIDENT

1000 1 131945 Msg fr 92d Cml Bn: Present position K507459 between Borie and Sichen-

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Sussenet-Borie, Belgium 1030 2 Sgt LaFontaine went to Cml Depot at LACapelle, France, to pick up cml

equipment. (Note: Several Corps units desired small amounts of cml equipment so requests were combined to save transportation.)

JOURNAL ENGINEER SECTION Hq XIX Corps FROM: 140001B September 44 TO: 142400B September 1944 PLACE: ST TROND 1 0830 Msg fr CO 1115th Engr C Gp: Infantry has entered town of CANNE – 400 yds above bridge – work on

bridge at daylight going to continue regardless.

2 0830 Msg fr 1104th Engr C Gp: Rcn officer sent to MAASTRICHT on east bank on rcn – arrived OK – all clear.

3 0930 Msg fr 1115th Engr C Gp: Crossing of ALBERT Canal near shore started – will be finished noon, far

shore approaches prepared for demolition. Bridge construction will start 1300 – requires 140 ft DD Bailey.

4 0930 Msg fr G-3: Infantry Bn supporting the 1115th Engr C Gp is establishing bridge head will continue to

push to clear the island between the river and the canal. 5 1030 Maj BABBIT said all elements and equipment are across the river at MAASTRICHT. 6 1200 Rec’d msg fr G-2 Army : On Siegfried Line installations information urgently requested regarding

following points. 1. Thickness of roof 2. Presence of I beams 3. Date of construction. 7 1210 Rec’d msg fr 1104th Engr C Gp: Work started on both bridge sites at MAASTRICHT. 8 1520 Rec’d ltr of instructions No. 31 9 1545 Msg fr 1104th Engr C Gp: Both bridging operations in MAASTRICHT progressing. 1104th Engr C Gp

CP is located on main road through town. Artillery fire is being received from the NE. 1104th Engr C Gp captured 20 prisoners. Contacted friendly troops who advanced to the west edge of town and do not intend to advance further. This consisted of one infantry company reinforced.

10 1600 Msg rec’d fr Lt Col HODGES: Information above was confirmed and estimate of completion time was

set at 1900 for both bridges. 1104 Engr C Group said they need the additional 240 ft which POWERHOUSE (2d Armd Div) took up across the canal NW of HASSELT.

11 1610 Msg fr 1104th Engr C Gp: All pontoon arrived with convoy. 180 ft of trdwy fr CANNE came with

convoy – reserved trdwy not yet arrived. 12 1615 Called 2d Armd Div to find out what happened to the 240 ft of trdwy which was detailed to report to

1104th Engr C Gp for routing to MAASTRICHT bridge site. 13 1420 Msg fr Civil Affairs: There are 15 barges of sand and gravel at HASSELT which belong to the

GERMANS – the owner of the barges is interested in getting his barges released and the sand and gravel can be obtained for the unloading. This offer holds good until tomorrow night.

14 Msg fr 1115th Engr C Gp: Division Engr 30th Division told GP they no longer wanted infantry support bridge

over canal and river. Corps G-3 and G-4 approved removal. 1115th GP was authorized to have bridge removed and 100 ft of Corps Bridge to be separated so that Army bridging is not mixed with Corps bridging.

15 Msg fr 1115th Adv CP: One Company infantry on high ground S of MAASTRICHT is in contact with company

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in MAASTRICHT defending bridgehead on West. One inf company on high ground SW of MAASTRICHT. One company protecting bridge site at K545480. Patrol being sent to road on ALBERT Canal W of MAASTRICHT. Completion time estimated at 2030, G-3 notified.

16 Rec’d ltr fr War Dept Observers Board: Date of Engr interest resulting fr experience in France. 17 Msg fr 1104th Engr C. Gp: The heavy pontoon bridge at MAASTRICHT was completed at 1900 – trdwy was

completed at 1930. 18 Msg rec’d fr 1115th Engr C Gp: Bailey Bridge fell in the ALBERT Canal vicinity of CANNES at 1800. JOURNAL ORDNANCE SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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1 1900 – Col Crabb talked to Army OO re ammo rationing. Col Medaris stated that for the next 10-day period there was approx. 225 rds of Arty ammo per weapon available in Army.

JOURNAL QUARTERMASTER SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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( no entry ) JOURNAL SURGEON SECTION Hq XIX Corps

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1300 1 Dentist that went to the 92nd Chemical bn found the battalion so disposed that they survey was impractical. Arrangements have now been made for it to be in conjunction with the monthly physical inspection.

1600 2 G-4 of 30th Division called that they had located a carload of medical supplies in the rail yards at MAASTRICHT, HOLLAND. Was told to put a guard on it and that they would be taken over later.

2100 3 Capt KRUGMAN visited and informed us that work on dentures was progressing satisfactorily at the 609th Clearing Co.

AFTER ACTION REPORT113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) ( see 15 September) ANNEX 5 S-2, S-3 JOURNAL 113th Cavalry Group (Mecz.) In Out No. Dated Incidents - Messages - Orders - etc. 0100 17 14

Sept 113th Sq - No change

0415 20 14 Sept

113th Sq - Nothing to report

0730 21 14 Sept

Fwd elms Tr “B” at 769469 - 738467; CP at 767643.

0855 22 14 Sept

Destroyed ETNAK constructions at once and make written rpt to this Hq’s.

0855 23 14 Sept

Captd 2 PW’s at 568483.

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0840 25 14 Sept

1 Palt Tr “Z” and “C” 125th Sq jumped off.

0925 0933 27 14 Sept

Enemy contacted 736472.

0955 30 14 Sept

1st U.S. Army request info as to location of units, type of resistance, attitude of local Germans. Rpt needed by 1300.

1010 35 14 Sept

Provided resistance group with incendiary grenades. They KO’d 1 - 88mm Gun at 632540 and 3 -75mm Guns at 627533.

1025 36 14 Sept

Elms at 569522 - town clear - W bank of river at MAASTRICHT believed clear. 2d Bn 117th Inf will rcn enemy on W side.

1141 38 14 Sept

XIX Corps and VII Corps given joint use of AACHEN.

1100 40 14 Sept

CP Tr “C” 125th Sq 694474. Light enemy contact our front in all sectors.

1247 41 14 Sept

1st US Army request info on SIEGFRIED LINE as to thickness of roof, presence of eye-beams, date of construction.

1250 42 14 Sept

Info desired msg 0955 not available at present. Gp CO checking.

1230 43 14 Sept

Tr “B” OP located at 746465.

1254 1300 44 14 Sept

Contact between 2d and 3d Bn has been established. OP NE of MAASTRICHT. Observed enemy dug in along road from 621550 - 653542, 2 bridges blown at 630542 and 630544 - AT Gun at 593550 - 3 AT Guns at 597554 - 4 Arty pieces firing at 598566 - 10 tks vic 598566, do not appear to be in very good shape. Weather closing in further observation will be limited.

1345 1412 48 14 Sept

Tr “C” patrol reached 719479 and will returned, rpts enemy dug in at same position as yesterday.

1603 1648 55 14 Sept

Contacted 1st Div at 778404.Tr “A” 125th Sq withdrew to 721472. Plat observed 2 trucks 1 H/Track, and few men at 753468. Plat now at 693460.

1625 1642 58 14 Sept

Civ rpts concrete fortification and 3 SP Guns in woods at 790445.

1651 1709 59 14 Sept

Captd 5 PW’s at 596530.

1605 1809 60 14 Sept

Enemy road blocks at 758438 - 756431 - 775425

1930 69 14 Sept

Bridges at 565520 in position 1900. 2d Armd Div will clear tonight.

1910 70 14 Sept

Dispositions 1st Inf Div: 1st Inf Div Rcn Tr elms at 750451 - 756440 - 768433 - 776587 Rcn Tp CP 721431.

2130 75 14 Sept

To both Sqs: Mission tomorrow unchanged effort will be made to rotate fwd units - continue intense maintenance and resupply where possible.

2310 82 14 Sept

Bdry between 119th and 120th Inf Regts 700490 - 740516 - 770517. 119th Bn on left, 120th on right.

From: SQUADRON HISTORY 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) On 14 Sep 44 observation posts were established where enemy movement could be observed and several artillery and anti-tank gun positions were reported to higher headquarters. Physical liaison was maintained with elements of the 117th Infantry Regiment. One platoon of tanks was sent through the area south of Maastricht to complete the mopping up operations. Twenty-two prisoners were taken during the day. Weather was cloudy with rain. From: UNIT HISTORY Troop “B” 113th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz) 14 September .... Mechelon .... Troop remained in tactical bivouac in this vicinity during the period. Troop remained attached to the 113th Cav. Gp. and the 125th Cav. Rcn. Sq. for duty. Platoons mained road blocks in this vicinity, set up OPs on high ground to the north and observed enemy movements in this sector. Small patrols were sent out throughout the day. From: DAILY ACTION REPORT 125th Cav Rcn Sq (Mecz)

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14 Sep: (693469, Gulpen, Holland). One (1) platoon 803rd TD, reinforced with one platoon 246th Engrs, outposted town of Gulpen. With our size force it was impossible to prevent some enemy infiltration into the town but it is believed the enemy had insufficient forces to exploit the infiltration. The Squadron mission was changed to that of maintaining an active defense and contact with the enemy. This was comparatively easy as the enemy was dug in where he could overlook all parts of the highway in our sector. However, the trenches were lower than our positions. The enemy seemed to be very poor quality as there was evidence of poor marksmanship, discipline and camouflage. Small patrols were sent out during the night to maintain contact with the enemy. S - 3 JOURNAL 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion

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14 September, 1944 0944 621. 0944 “C” Company position C.P. and 1st plat. 665434. 2nd plat. 702479. 3rd plat.

691431. 1000 622. 1000 Woods at coor. 308455 clear of enemy. To 2nd TD Group.

1530 623. 1530 Prepare to move Bn to 581477 at 0730 hours From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn ( see 16 September ) ANNEX 2 UNIT JOURNAL 82nd Engr. C. Bn

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14 Sep

141100 Bridge construction began

141830 Bridge launched and failed salvage commenced JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn ( see 19 September ) ANNEX 1 From: BRIEF HISTORY Battery “C” 467th AAA AW Bn (self-propelled) 14 September 1944 2nd Platoon guarding bridge Hasselt. 1st Platoon moved to Maastricht to guard bridge. G - 2 PERIODIC REPORT No 89 Hq 30th Infantry Division

HEADQUARTERS 30TH INFANTRY DIVISION G-2 PERIODIC REPORTS

From: 14 0001 To : 14 2400

No. 89 Maps: GSGS 2541, 4249, & 4336, 4 - 9 - R1 - R2 - S1 - S2. 1/100,000 1. 1. ENEMY SITUATION AT END OF PERIOD:

a. a. Enemy Front Line: 5754 - 6056, then along high ground NORTH of GEUL RIVER to KRUISBERG (735473).

b. b. Defensive Organization: Dug in infantry with supporting weapons. c. c. Units in Contact: Still the 275 Inf Div with its faltering lines being frequently augmented by relucant

stragglers, some of whom are completely unaware of their new parent organization and others ignorant of whether they are fighting the British or the Americans.

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d. d. Artillery: Four batteries light and one battery medium artillery. e. e. Reserves and other Forces Capable of Intervention: Elements of the following divisions are capable of

intervening in our sector: 49 Inf Div, 271 Inf Div, 353 Inf Div, 9 and 11 Pz Div, and the 176 Inf Div.

2. 2. ENEMY OPERATIONS: a. a. General Summary: Our troops crossed the MEUSE RIVER from the EAST in assault boats and entered

MAASTRICHT WEST of the River. The only opposition that was encountered was enemy artillery fire which was used to contest the crossing. Our troops also entered the island formed by the ALBERT CANAL and the MEUSE RIVER from the southwest and advanced until contact was made with the units in MAASTRICHT itself. No enemy contact was reported there. East of the MEUSE RIVER, our patrols advanced North, Northeast and East with only very light contact, and some artillery and AA fire. The town of VALKENBERT (6653) was taken with very little opposition other than light artillery fire.

b. b. Component Elements: (1) (1) Artillery: A considerable amount of harassing fire was received. The slackening of light artillery may

indicate a shortage of that caliber of ammunition. Fire received was in single gun and battery concentrations.

(2) (2) Engineers: Bridges blown at 630542 and 620544. Mines and booby traps at 751452. All bridges at VALKENBURG blown.

3. 3. MISCELLANEOUS:

a. a. Estimate of Enemy Casualties Including Prisoners: Number of PW’s taken for period 685. Total for operation 1035. Total to date 8540. Enemy dead from division zone buried today 28. Total to date 255. Enemy tanks destroyed or captured today 0. Total to date 149.

b. b. Weather: rain with poor visibility throughout period. c. c. Miscellaneous: (1) As the imminence of operations in Germany proper will necessitate the fullest use of

all personnel with the ability to speak German, unit commanders and S-2’s should have knowledge of the men skill in German for the many interpretation needs that will arise, as well as for tactical usage. (2) At this time available lists of personnel with German skills should be brought up to date and kept on hand for reference.

4. 4. ENEMY CAPABILITIES:

a. a. The enemy can continue to delay with the forces now in contact. b. b. He can defend on the best terrain possible between the present positions and the WEST WALL using

reinforcements brought up from nearby units. This he may do if he needs the additional time in which to man and prepare the defenses of the WEST WALL in our zone.

c. c. He can counterattack to the Southwest using considerable infantry, a limited amount of armor, in an effort to split the corps drive towards his perimeter defense.

d. d. He can attempt to knock out or bridges by air. G - 2 ESTIMATE No. 9, 30th Infantry Division

Date 14 Sept 1944

Spot G-2 Estimate No. 9

THE SIEGFRIED LINE. 1. 1. History The SIEGRFIED Line was begun in 1936, soon after the remi litarization of The Rhineland. The original plan envisaged the construction of a fortified zone along the WESTERN frontiers of the REICH over a period of several years. Work was at first conducted on this long-term basis; 100 concrete works are stated to have been completed in 1936 and a further 500 in 1937. In 1938 Hitler gave special priority to the SIEGFRIED Line and buildings went on at a feverish rate up to the outbreak of war and afterwards. When FRANCE fell, the total number of workers was said to be 22,000. Since that time no works has been done. The fortifications have been maintained however by a small fortress engineer staff and there has been no dismantling. 2. 2. Course of the Line. The SIEGFRIED defenses follow the 1939 frontier closely. They extend approximately 350 miles from the SWISS frontier opposite BASLE to the junction of the BELGIAN, DUTCH, and GERMAN frontiers opposite MUNCHEN - GLADBACH. Throughout this area, the line is practically continuos. North of MUNCHEN - GLADBACH, no

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fortifications are known. Various reports, many of the propagandist in character, have alleged that they do exist as far as KLEVE, but air photographs have NOT revealed them. The line consists of a fortified zone varying in depth according to topographical conditions and the importance of the hinterland in each sector. In general, the fortifications are strongest between STRASBOURG and TRIER. Specially strong areas are OFFENBURG (opposite STRASBOURG) KARLSRUHE, the BIENWALD gap, PIRMASENS, ZWEIBRUCKEN, SAARBRUCKEN, TRIER and AACHEN. At all of those there are, in addition to the main line, reserve positions which are also fortified in depth. 3. 3. Nature of the Fortifications. The SIEGFRIED defenses are described by a German military writer as “tactics dug into the ground”. These tactics are of 1936-39 vintage. The line consists essentially of a continuos anti-tank/anti-personnel obstacle, natural or artificial, covered by frontal and flanking fire from a forward line of fortifications, behind which are further fortifications providing a dense zone of crossfire to seal off any enemy penetration of the forward position. The SIEGFRIED line differs from the MAGINOT line in that it consists of small fortified positions, interspersed with field defenses and organized in great depth, as opposed to massive fortifications in a comparatively thin line. The Germans in 1939 expected that any attack would wear itself out and come to a halt within the depth of the main defences or at the worst in the reserve lines behind them. On the other hand the SIEGFRIED line differs from the ATLANTIC WALL and later German defense theory in general, in that it is organized as a continuously held front and NOT as a chain of mutually supporting strongpoints. Concrete Fortifications. The concrete works of the SIEGFRIED line are primarily for infantry and anti-tank artillery. There are a number of forts in the FRENCH ad BELGIAN style at key-points in the system. In the main, however, the fortifications conform to the types already well-known from the ATLANTIC WALL - M.G. pillboxes, anti-tank gun casemates, personnel shelters, O.Ps., Command posts, magazines. There is reason to believe that at least from 1938 onwards the fortress standard was a thickness of 6 feet 7inch reinforced concrete. This certainly applies to the forts and to some of the larger pillboxes and casemates. There is good evidence, however, that works 5 feet or even as little as 3 feet thick, thickness of 5 feet are also common. While individual structures are more vulnerable than those on the coast it must be reckoned that they are more dispersed and present a less favorable target for pinpoint attack than the Atlantic Strongpoints. Other features of the concrete works are as follows:

(a) (a) Armoured turrets are to be found chiefly on the forward edge of the line. Loopholed pillboxes and casemates works are to be found in all parts.

(b) (b) All works are supposed to be gas-proof, presumably by means of rubber edging on doors and

shutters, and by indirect ventilation as on the ATLANTIC WALL.

(c) (c) Signals communications are by buried fortress cable; individual works in each sector are linked this way, and long distance cables run along the line some three miles in rear of the defended zone, linking headquarters and command post.

(d) (d) A LARGE PROPORTION OF THE WORKS ARE CAMOUFLAGED EITHER BY DISGUISING THEM

AS HOUSES WITH DUMMY PITCHED ROOFS AND PAINT OR BY COVERING THEM OVER WITH SPOIL. CAMOUFLAGE HAS HAD A LONG TIME TO WEATHER, SO THAT TODAY STRUCTERS ARE OFTEN VERY DIFFICULT TO RECOGNISE WHETHER FROM AIR PHOTOGRAPHS OR BY VISUAL OBSERVATION.

Field Defences. The concrete defences of the SIEGFRIED line were conceived as only the skeleton of the defence. They provide firing positions for a large proportion of the M.Gs and anti-tank guns and protection for personnel H.Qs and stores. The remaining infantry weapons and practically all the artillery were emplaced in earthworks. The germans in 1939 rejected all ideas of purely static defence of the type stigmatiaed by the term “Maginot-minded”. Any attack on thee German frontier would be halted by fire from field positions supported by fire from the fixed defences and subsequently driven back by a counter attack.

Artillery

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Divisional, corps and GHQ artillery was deployed in and behind the defence zone. Long-range artillery was provided mainly by railway guns behind the defence zone; these could be concentrated in any area as required. A.A. Defence. The A.A. defence area was deeper that the ground defence zone; heavy guns were sited along the rear edge of the ground defences, light guns both within and behind the ground defences. It was held that in the event of the ground defences being pierced at any point, the flak positions would form the basis of an improvised defence line until the breach could be sealed off. Obstacles. Artificial Anti-tank obstacles are continuos along the forward edge of the line where no natural obstacle exist. Occasionally there is a secondary obstacle in rear of the main obstacle and within the fortified area. The following types of obstacles are common; anti-tank escarpments reverted with concrete, dragon’s teeth in four rows or more, anti-tank ditches. Less common are curved steel rails, steel hedgehogs, damming of small streams and rivers. Anti-personnel obstacles were mainly broad wire entanglement along the forward edge of the line, both in front of and behind the anti-tank obstacle. Entanglements and apron-fences were also liberally used within the defence zone to protect individual positions and canalize the direction of the attack. Electrified wire, carrying a current strong enough to kill a man on contact, has been much reported; the extent of its use is unknown. Minefields, anti-tank and anti-personnel, were laid both in front of and behind the other obstacles. Stress was again laid on the principle of canalizing the attack force. Present State of the Line. In general, the concrete skeleton is all that remained of the 1940 defences. The works have be maintained by a staff of caretakers and there is evidence that, throughout the past four years, an attempt has been made to keep the interior of the buildings dry and to repair and waterproof buried cables. The effectiveness of these measures is unknown: on air photographs most of the works look “dead’. The field positions are either dilapidated and useless or have been ploughed in. Most of the wire was removed after 1940 and it is likely that a large proportion of the mines were lifted. Many of the weapons in the SIEGFRIED fortifications were movable and belonged to units occupying the line in 1940. There are comparatively few fixed weapons; some part of these may have gone, together with some of the movable steel obstacles, to the ATLANTIC WALL. But the ATLANTIC WALL did NOT draw to any considerable extent on the resources of the SIEGFRIED line. With all the defects which may have developed 1940, the line is still in itself a formidable position and the only possible one for the German Army to hold its present predicament. It will be necessary for them to recondition many of the concrete fortifications and re-arm them with M.Gs. and Anti-tank guns, repair signals communications and adapt them to changed resources and needs, relay wire obstacles and minefields on a large scale, and re-assemble A.A. defences on a scale commensurate with the reversal of air power since 1940. Even more important will be the task of training the troops available to man the fortress. Although photographic reconnaissance up to the end of August showed no activity in the line, it is probable efforts to prepare at least some parts of it for defence are being made. It is likely that these efforts will be confined to the sectors immediately threatened and that they will lead to a defence system based on the old defences but NOT a replica of the 1940 system; for example, there will be a few casemates suitable for heavy anti-tank guns, which were then unknown. The success of the preparations will depend on the time available before the assault on Germany, begins, but apart from its technical deficiencies by 1944 standards, the line will be weaker than it was at the beginning of the war by reason of the inferiority of its new garrison. HALL G-2 G - 3 PERIODIC REPORT No 93 Hq 30th Infantry Division

From: 140001B Sep 44 To : 142400B Sep 44 Place: (630423)

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No. 93 MAPS: 1. 1. OUR FRONT LINES (Or most advanced elements): See overlay. 2. 2. LOCATION OF TROOPS: See overlay. 3. 3. INFORMATION OF ADJACENT UNITS AND SUPPORTING TROOPS: See overlay. 4. 4. WEATHER AND VISIBILITY: Weather - Intermittent showers. Visibility - Poor. 5. 5. OUR OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD:

a. a. Inf. (1) (1) 117th Inf continued to occupy, organize, and actively defend its positions. Co “F” recrossed MEUSE

RIVER, cleaned out west part of the city of MAASTRICHT of all enemy, contacted elements of 2nd Bn 120th Inf, on island, and returned to its defensive positions.

(2) (2) 119th Inf, Co “C”, 743d Tk Bn, Atchd, continued to occupy and actively defend its positions. Patrols were sent to reconnoiter stream crossing at VALKENBURG, STRUCHT, and ETENAKEN. At 1750 Co “K” crossed the river and railroad tracks in Vic of WIJLRE and organized defensive positions.

(3) (3) 120th Inf (less Hq & Hq Co 2d Bn, Co “A”, “E”, “K”, and “H”) in Div Res. Maintained active defense of its area with aggressive patrolling to the front and flanks. I & R Plat crossed the German border at 1730 at (792410). Hq & Hq Co2d Bn, Cos “A”, “E”, “K”, and “H” in XIX Corps Res.

(4) (4) 743d Tk Bn, less Co “C”, in present assembly area engaged in reorganization, maintenance, and training of Tk crews. Co “A” in support of 119th Inf.

(5) (5) 823TD Bn, in present position, continued reorganization, training of replacements, maintenance and repairs.

b. b. 30th Div Arty, Reinf, normal support. 119th FA Gp (963d, 967th, 978th FA Bns) Atched 122300B Sep 44. 8th Chem Bn Atcchd 141445B Sep 44.

c. c. (1) 30th Rcn Tr, Mecz, relieved from XIX Corps control at 141430B Sep 44. Now outposting general line W ALBERT CANAL. (2) (2) 113th Cav Gp, Mecz, maintained contact by means of patrols with enemy to front and protected R and

L flanks of Div, and maintained contact with VII Corps on R. 6. 6. COMBAT EFFICIENCY: Excellent. 7. 7. RESULT OF OPERATIONS: Div continued to occupy, organize, and actively defend its positions. 117th Inf

cleaned out west part of MAASTRICHT. 119th Inf pushed forward to cut MEERSSEN - VALKENBURG Road. Active patrolling to front and flanks was continuous throughout period. I & R Plat from 120th Inf crossed German border at (792410).

NOTE: Reported crossing of German border by Tr “B”, 113th Cav Sq, in Periodic Report No 92, Pars 5, b and 7 was erroneous. From: AFTER BATTLE REPORT Hq 30th Infantry Division G-3 Section 14 September 1944: During the period the 30th Infantry Division continued active defense of its positions occupied 13 September and conducted vigorous patrolling to its front and flanks. The 117th Infantry continued to occupy and defend its positions of 13 September. Company F recrossed MEUSE RIVER, cleared out that part of MAASTRICHT W of the river, contacted elements of the 120th Infantry in that vicinity and returned to its former position. At 142100B a platoon from Company E occupied defensive positions to protect dam site at (K558544) The 119th Infantry, attached Company C, 743d Tank Battalion, continued to occupy and defend its positions of 13 September. At l41l3OB platoon patrols were sent from the 1st Battalion to reconnoiter stream crossings at VALKENBURG (K660537), STRUCHT (K685519), and ETENAKEN (K697513), and from the 3d Battalion to SCHOONBRON (K695518) and WIJLRE (K703497). The platoon at VALKENBURG encountered stiff enemy opposition and at 141145B the remainder of the company was sent to reinforce it. Enemy resistance increased and at 141730B the 1st Battalion moved to VALKENBURG and occupied positions there. During the remainder of the period it was subjected to heavy artillery fire but continued to hold its positions. At 141705B Company K moved

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across the river and the railroad in the vicinity of WIJLRE and organized defensive positions. Company G occupied SIBBE (K653513) to protect supply route. The 120th Infantry, less Headquarters and Headquarters Company 2d Battalion, and Companies A, E, H, and K remained in Division Reserve and continued active defense of its positions of 13 September. The regiment conducted aggressive patrolling to its front and flanks. The I and R Platoon crossed the GERMAN BORDER at 141730B at (K792410). Headquarters and Headquarters Company 2d Battalion, and Companies A, E, H, and K remained in XIX Corps Reserve W of MAASTRIGHT between the ALBERT CANAL and the MEUSE RIVER. The 743d Tank Battalion, less Company C remained in positions of 13 September and conducted reorganization, training and maintenance. Company C was placed in support of the 119th Infantry. The 823d Tank Destroyer Battalion continued to occupy positions to give antitank protection to the Division. The 30th Division Artillery, attached 119th Field Artillery Group and 8th Observation Battalion (attached 141445B) continued to give normal support to the division in its advance. The 30th Reconnaissance Troop, Mecz, was released from XIX Corps control at 141430B and continued to outpost general line W of the ALBERT CANAL in the division’s sector. The 113th Cavalry Groups Mecz, maintained contact with enemy to the division’s front in and continued protection of its right and left flanks. Contact was maintained with VII Corps on the right. The 105th Engineer Combat Battalion conducted maintenance of materiel and equipment. One platoon of Company A ferried the 2d Battalion 117th Infantry across MEUSE RIVER in assault boats at (K565515) Company B continued Engineer Reconnaissance of roads and bridges within the 119th Infantry sector. The attached 4th Platoon, Company B, 602d Engineer Camouflage Battalion inspected areas of the 743d Tank Battalion, 823d Tank Destroyed Battalion, and 30th Quartermaster Company. UNIT JOURNAL 117th Infantry Rgt 14 September 1944 Time

in Time out

Serial number

0655 3rd Bn advises that there are about 23 enemy between it and Regt’l CP - 3rd Bn has the enemy pinned - Warn anyone coming down the Rd to be careful.

0700 Tks inquire whether they can withdraw in order to gas up and for maintenance - They will be but a mile or two away and ready for immediate return in case anything happens.

0710 Capt Singleton tells 2nd Bn of above request and is told that it is alright to withdraw the tks in accordance there with.

0715 Col Johnson grants 743rd TK Bn permission to withdraw for purpose of gassing up and for maintenance.

0718 One Plat of tks removed from 3rd Bn for same purpose. 0900 Tks serviced and returned to Bns 1030 1 Overlay rec’d showing Tk and A-T distribution 2 Overlay rec’d of Unit Positions of CP 117th Inf. 1035 119th Inf -3 notifies S-3 that a patrol is being sent to the most Northerly Unit - he asks that it

be looked for. 1035 S-3 informs 3rd Bn by radio of above message. 1040 S-3 tells 2nd Bn that a Section of the 113th Cav is moving toward them from the South in

order to establish liaison. 1100 Civilians report from 200 to 300 enemy in town of Groot. 1105 2nd Bn reports that a few men from “F” Co are across now. 1110 ..... ask G-3 for a member of the CIC to investigate some alleged collaborationists in the

Regt’l area. 1145 3 G-2 Periodic report rec’d. 1300 4 Overlay rec’d of A-T Co position 5 Overlay rec’d showing 3rd Bn dispositions. 1330 6 Overlay rec’d showing 119th Inf supporting guns. 7 Overlay rec’d showing 3rd Bn dispositions.

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8 Overlay rec’d showing 3rd Bn A-T gun dispositions. 1340 9 Amendments rec’d to G-2 Report #87. 1340 G-3 instructs S-3 to reinforce the unit of the 2nd Bn that crossed its obstacle. 1342 This message relayed to 2nd Bn. 1345 Div states that 15 Tks and and Inf have been reported at 583 - 544 and 259 - 355. 1400 G-3 tells S-3 that Div is not certain of the situation of the 120th Inf because one bn is

operating under Corps Command. 1420 The I & R Plat reports that it is now in Amby and that the enemy has withdrawn. 1430 G-3 notifies S-3 to hold up the unit which has crossed the river on the outskirts of the town -

The 120th Inf has reached the 50 Grid Line and was successful in its mission of establishing a bridge.

1500 General Hobbs in CP. 1510 General Hobbs leaves CP. 1555 G-3 tells S-3 that the 743rd TD’s are detached from the Regt but remain in the vicinity and

can be called if needed - 743rd TD Ln O to remain with Regt. 1640 G-3 tells S-3 that Div has no information about our unit with the 120th Inf. 1705 S-3 notifies G-3 that our unit has contact with the 120th Inf - Orders for “F” Co requested. 1735 10 Overlay rec’d showing A-T positions. 1815 S-3 tell G-3 that Bn of the 120th Inf is digging in South of our elements - Can our units be

withdraw? 1840 Div tells S-3 - Go ahead and pull out your trps in the 120th Inf Sector. 1900 1st Bn advised to contact same patrol as last night. 1905 S-3 notifies 119th Inf -3 that we are sending a patrol to make contact with 119th Inf patrol on

the boundary tonight. 1910 Col Johnson returns from the town - He advises that the town has been cleared of enemy

and that the Engrs have the bridge just about completed. 1915 Col Johnson asks the Chief of Staff if the 120th Inf is going into the town - We are pulling

out. 1930 Col Johnson tells Chief of Staff that we can send a Plat to protect the far end of the bridge if

necessary - Chief of Staff advises that the Engrs be asked whethery they need it. 1935 Col Johnson asks 2nd Bn Ex-O to find out whether the Engrs need any protection - If they

do, a Plat is to be sent them. 2015 119th Inf -3 to S-3 - We won’t be able to make contact with your patrol on the boundary -

We are too busy - We have pushed up to the river and do not have enough men to send a patrol out.

2020 Col Johnson informs Div of above message from 119th Inf - He is told that we can make a new contact point further up.

2030 11 Administrative Order #47 rec’d. 2230 Capt Singleton tells 1st Bn not send the patrol out which was to make contact with the 119th

Inf. 2240 3rd Bn advises that its patrol made contact with the 3rd Bn and has returned. 2310 730th Ord reports that a civilian informed them that 20 Germans were near the Can Co

Area. 2315 Above message relayed to can Co. 2400 1st Bn advises that its patrols to 2nd and 3rd Bns have made contact. 2400 12 Spot G-2 Estimate #0 rec’d. 2400 13 G-3 Periodic Report for 14 Sept rec’d.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 119th Infantry Rgt During the morning of September 14, patrolling was carried on to determine crossings of the Geul River. At 0935 the 1st Battalion reported a bridge intact at Valkenburg and was directed to seize and hold the bridge with a company if necessary. However, at 1115 this bridge was also reported blown. At 1130 it was directed that a platoon each be sent to hold each four bridge sites, 2 by the 1st Battalion and 2 by the 3rd Battalion, but at 1145 this was amended and the 1st battalion was directed to send a company supported by heavy weapons to the site in Valkenburg at 1645 the entire 1st Battalion was ordered to Valkenburg and “G” Company went to Sibbe to secure the supply routes. By 1715 the 1st Battalion was in a large fire fight and shortly afterwards received considerable enemy artillery. Tanks were sent but thru confusing similar town names did not arrived until 2050 when they were

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ordered back out of town for the night to avoid the artillery fire. The 3rd Battalion established its bridgeheads without resistance and located a ford at Wijlre. During the day 1 was killed, 17 wouded and 73 prisoners were taken. From: UNIT HISTORY 120th Infantry Regiment Aggressive patrolling on September 14th revealed many enemy dispositions. Contact was made with friendly reconnaissance troops to the east and southeast of our positions and on this day, Lt. James J. Butler realized an ambition which many of us have had. Leading the I and R Platoon with the mission to make contact with the First Division on our right, he crossed the German border at 1730 near Wolfshaag, Holland, east of Aachen, Germany. Not only was he the first man in the Regiment to set foot on German soil, but he was also the first man in the 30th Division to do so. The 2nd Battalion, which had continued under the control of the XIX Corps, attacked the enemy on an island between the Albert Canal and the Meuse River south of Maastricht on the night of 13th – 14th. From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 743rd Tank Battalion 14 Sept 44 - The 743rd tank battalion rear moved now to a new area at Fouron Le Comte, Belgium (600425), arriving at 1730 hours. Assault gun platoon in position at 65504765, but fired no mission after adjusting. “A” Company left position at 575520, and proceeded to help 117th Infantry Regiment capture the port of Maastricht on East side of river. Company formed battalion holding force, 1 platoon to each infantry Company at 609499 and remained in center of town, (15 tanks on line). The 2nd and 3rd platoons, attached to the 117th Infantry regiment, knocked out an artillery observer’s steeple at berg, Holland. After that, they remained in alert bivouac at Terblijt, Holland and at 1630 hours moved to Cadier En Keer, Holland (611495) were they bivouaced for the night. The first platoon remained at Maastricht, Holland most of the day acting as road blocks, and at 1630 hours they joined the balance of the company at Cadier En Keer, Holland and bivouaced for the night. “C” Company’s 1st and 3rd platoons moved out with the 1st battalion and prepared to assist in crossing the stream and to attack toward Heerlen on the following day. The 1st platoon moved to the outskirts of Valkenberg without locating friendly troops. They held the town for 15 minutes. Then, after observing and firing on 2 German infantrymen, withdrew when enemy artillery began ranging in on its position. Friendly troops were supposed to be in this town. The 1st platoon then moved to Valkenberg (662535) and contacted the friendly troops of the 1st battalion, 119th Infantry regiment and set up a defense. The 3rd platoon proceeded to Valkenberg and while enroute C-18 was hit by an artillery shell seriously wounded T/4 Lukins and Pfc Keith. Later in the night, Pfc Keith died. The 2nd platoon was in a defensive position with the 3rd battalion and remained there in the vicinity of Kjzeren. The 1st and 3rd platoons bivouaced South of Valkenberg for the night in the vicinity of 659530. From: UNIT HISTORY 967th FA Battalion Bn CO & BC’s reconnoitered for new positions. Bn had 66 miles of gasoline at 1600 this date. Bn fired the following concentrations: 1 Btry 2 volleys at one enemy roving gun at (59725680), Bn 1 volley with the Bn covering 300 yds of road at (593550); Bn 1 volley at Infantry in woods at (65825610); Bn 1 volley at mortars at (65255545). Bn expended 48 rounds of ammunition during the 24 hour period. FIELD ORDER No 25 Headquarters CC ”A”, 2nd Armd Div.

Hq CC”A”, 2 AD APO 252 In the Field 142300B Sept 44

FO #25 MAPS: GSGS: 4040, France & Belgium, scale: 1/50,000 1. a. No change. b. No change.

2. a. CC”A”, 2nd Armd Div, continues attack of 15 Sept 44 to secure W bank of WILLEMS VAART Canal in zone and to clear enemy from zone. b. Changes as follows:

DETACH ATTACH Co E, 41st AIR from 2nd Bn, 41st AIR Co E, 41st AIR to 2nd Bn, 66th AR

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3. a. 82nd Rcn Bn with Co D, 17th Engr Bn atchd, move at 1507305B Sept 4, patrol between objectives 5 & 7 until released. Sweep area from E to W between axis objective 6 - objective 8 and objective 5 - objective 7 to Y. Protect left (N) flank of CC”A” between Y and Z. Maintain contact with 11th Armd Div (Br) on left (N). b. Rcn Co, 66th AR, move at 150730B Sept 44, sweep area between S boundary of CC”A” and route followed into present area from E to W to Y. cover all roads S of 66th AR (-) - 2nd Bn, 41st AIR boundary between X and Y in CC”A” zone. Maintain present road block. Upon completion of sweeping mission assemble in present area. c. 66th AR (-) reinf, seize and secure objective 11, secure approaches into zone from N at objective 9. Sweep zone between N boundary and axis objective 6 - objective 8 from E to W from Z to Y. Upon completion of sweeping mission reassemble to secure line objective 9 - objective 8. d. 2nd Bn, 66th AR (-1 Co) with Co E, 41st AIR atchd, move at 150730B Sept 44 with a force consisting of Co A, 66th AR and 2 Plat, Co E, 41st AIR to sweep from E to W from Z to Y between axis objective 7 – objective 5 exclusive and axis of Rcn Co 66th AR inclusive. Upon completion of this mission this force will assemble E of Y on N side of axis objective 7 - objective 5 and await orders. Remainder of 2nd Bn 66th AR (-) reinf, remain in present location prepared to assist in sweeping area between Z & Y or to hold present line on order. f. 2nd Bn 41st AIR (-1 Co) with Co D, 66th AR and 1 Plat Co A, 17th Engr Bn atchd, secure line objective 10 - objective 7 and approaches into objectives 7 & 10 from S, E, & N. Be prepared to assist in sweeping area between Z & Y on order g. 65th AFA Bn, in direct support of 66th AR (-) reinf, in general support of CC”A” less 66th AR (-) reinf. h. 14th AFA Bn, in direct support of CC”A” less 66th AR (-), in general support of 66th AR (-) reinf.

i. i. Btry D, 195 AAA Bn no change. j. j. Co A, 702nd TD Bn & Co A, 17th Engr Bn (-2 Plats) remain in present location prepared to assist

sweeping of area between Z to Y on order. k. k. Maint Co, 66th AR & Co A, 48th Med Bn support the action of CC”A”.

4. No change. 5. a. Current SOI, 2nd Armd Div, 15 - 21 Sept 44 compromised. Radio and code and link signs for 15 Sept will be used. In all other cases SOI, 2nd Armd Div for 10 Sept 44 will be used 15 Sept 44. b. CP, CC”A” remains present location.

COLLIER Comdg.

From: AFTER ACTION REPORT Hq 2nd Armored Division On 14 Sep, 0645B, CC “A” advanced in its sector of the 2d Armd Div zone north of the ALBERT Canal, attacking east from the vicinity of GENCK toward ASCH. 99th Inf Bn (sep), which had been attached to CC “A” from Div Res, and 1st Bn 41st AIR were given the mission of sweeping the area of enemy. The advance moved steadily and by noon assault elements reached the vicinity of BRET and GELTEREN, with reconnaissance elements at MECHELEN. By 1700B the columns had reached points southeast of ASCH and west of MECHELEN. At the close of the period CC “A” consolidated its gains in vicinity of EYSDEN and MECHELEN. 82d Armd Rcn Bn coordinated with CC “A”, maintained contact wi th the British on the north and also sent patrols east. These patrols reached ASCH and the VAART Canal. The combined forces of CC “A” and 82d Armd Rcn Bn by the end of the period had cleared all enemy from the north sector of the Div zone with the exception of a strip of land enclosed by the VAART Canal and MEUSE River. 65th Armd FA Bn reinforced the fires of the 14th Armd FA Bn in giving close support to CC “A”. Div Res relieved CC “B” in its defensive positions south and west of the ALBERT Canal. CC “B” concentrated in the vicinity of BILSEN and were alerted for an attack east through MAASTRICHT.

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From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “A” On September 14 the company mission was to move south with “D” Company attached creating a diversion of the north flank of the enemy, clearing out OPGLABBEEK and OPOETERN, cutting road between those points and if possible cutting the main road running east and west between ASCH and the WILLEMS Canal. The Battalion Executive Officer, Major Girard, came up with Company D. the 3rd platoon initially remained at the road block. The 1st and 2nd platoons each with a tank platoon attached moved east through NEERGLABEEK running into a road block approximately 1 kilometer east of that point. The 2nd platoon remained to reduce or by-pass the road block and then move into OPOETERN. The 1st platoon with attached tanks moved cross country through the forest and arrived at OPOETERN. The 2nd platoon arrived at OPOETERN first, having removed the road block which proved to be lightly defended by small arms. The 2nd platoon with tank platoon attached met resistance in the form of small arms fire at OPOETERN. They inflicted probably a dozen casualties and took a few prisoners. The first platoon assisted in closing in on the town and taking the prisoners. At this point, artillery began to fall in the town and the platoon withdrew. The 1st platoon moved around the town to the right to continue its mission and to cut the road leading into the town. In the large open low land west of the town, the 1st platoon encountered the enemy dug in in well camouflaged fox holes. The enemy had a number of machine guns and bazookas and the personnel made up of approximately one quarter paratroopers and the remainder air force, fought quite well. Most of them were killed in their holes by 75mm WP smoke and hand grenades. There were 23 known to be killed and four wounded. Forty prisoners were taken in this locality. The tank platoon which had remained with the other tank platoon during this action, rejoined the 1st platoon and they consolidated their position to hold the town and the road net. The 2nd platoon and atched tank platoon returned to GRUITRODE. The 3rd platoon moved around the road block and into OPGLABBEEK where they encountered a small enemy patrol which withdrew. The platoon moved east to DORNE then by trails to DORNER HEIDE. All roads from that point were heavily mined with wooden mines which would explode when an effort was made to remove them. The 3rd platoon then returned to DORNE. The 2nd platoon pushed through the forest to within two kilometers of the main highway running east from ASCH. Here they dismounted and proceeded to the highway on foot, discovering that the advance elements of CCA had already arrived there. The Company assembled at DORNE for the night with the exception of the 1st platoon which remained at OPOETERN. During the days operation Private 1st Class Supple was slightly wounded in action and was evacuated. From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “B” 14 September 1944: Platoons reconnoitered routes to OPGRIMBY. Company moved to that point arriving at 1930B. the town was outposted during the night. (Weather - Rainy and Cool.) From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “C” On the 14th of September the Company Headquarters with the 3rd platoon in reserve moved from BERKINERS via ZONHOVEN, WINTERSLAG, WALEW, CHEIDI-CITE, WATERBLEEK to LULENDAIL. The 1st platoon moved from BERKINERS, at first light, to the north of the wooded area north of WINTERSLAG to OPGLABBEEK, ASCH and joined the Company at WATERSCHEIDE. The platoon encountered several mine fields and road blocks but did not make enemy contact. The 2nd platoon was move south of the wooded area north of WINTERSLAG, but encountered road blocks and mine fields. Sergeant Heppy, the platoon sergeant was wounded while attempting to open a railroad gate that had been mined and booby trapped. The platoon was ordered to withdraw and join the Company Headquarters at WATERSCHEIDE. The platoons outposted the SUTENDAEL area for the night. From: UNIT HISTORY 82d Armd Rcn Bn NARRATIVE REPORT Company “D” On September 14th the 1st and 2nd platoons, attached to Company “A” formed reconnaissance south and southeast of GRUITRODE. They met small arms fire in the vicinity of OPOETERN. 3rd platoon cleared road block and mine field from road between GRUITRODE and OPOETERN. Some artillery fire fell in OPOETERN. One man was slightly wounded. At ..... the company moved to a new bivouac at DORNE (521741). The 3rd platoon returned to Company and outposted CP. From: UNIT HISTORY 66th Armored Regiment 14 September

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The 1st Battalion was in Division reserve and the 2nd Battalion in Combat Command “A” reserve. The advance ordered was made in two columns with the mission of clearing the West bank of the Willems-Vaart Canal in the Division zone. The right column moved to the attack crossing the Line of Departure at 0645 hours, cleaned out the town of Winterslag-Cite and continued on its route. It secured the objective at 1030, meeting light resistance and mined road-blocks. The right column again moved out and continued East about 8 miles where it received mortar and artillery fire as it occupied the area. Harrassing fire was received throughout the night but there were no casualties. The Left column advanced and encountered resistance near the right column’s first objective which it overcame. The left column continued East reducing numerous mined road-blocks and resistance in the form of machine gun, mortar and artillery fire. It secured for the night at 1930. The 65th Field Artillery Battalion was in support and fired missions as they were called for. Casualties sustained: 2nd Lt Bernard W. Deehan — Light Wounded in Action (LWA) Pvt Randall S. M. Lehman — Light Wounded in Action (LWA) Pvt Adrien J. Beliveau — Died Of Wounds (DOW) From: REPORT OF OPERATIONS (1 - 30 September 1944) Hq 66th Armd Regt 14 Sept 1944 Orders were received from Commanding Officer, CC"A", assigning mission of 66th Armd Regt as follows: Attack in two columns in zone assigned, to secure objectives as shown on overlay. (See overlay #9). Commanding Officer, 66th Armd Regt, ordered this attack to be made in two columns, composition as shown below: (See FO #3 Hq 66th AR, 14 Sept 44 (Annex #9). RIGHT COLUMN as constituted moved into the attack, crossing the LD at 0645B, cleaned out town of WINTERSLAG-CITE continued on prescribed route securing. Objective 4 at 1030B meeting light resistance and mined road b1ocks enroute. Objective 4 being secured, RIGHT COLUMN continued on mission assigned, reaching OBJECTIVE 8 at 1700B. Reducing resistance at OBJECTIVE 8, RIGHT COLUMN secured itself for the night. Enemy mortar and artillery fire was received during the occupation of OBJECTIVE 8 and harassing fire was received through out the night with no casualties suffered. LEFT COLUMN as constituted moved into the attack at 0930B meeting resistance just NORTH of OBJECTIVE 4, reducing this the column moved along prescribed route after reducing numerous mined road blocks, resistance in form of machine gun, mortar and artillery fire succeeded in reaching OBJECTIVE 9 at 1845B, securing it for the night at 1930B. 65th Field Arty was in support and fired missions as called for. 2nd Bn, 66th Armd Regt, in CC"A" Reserve left area NORTH of KEMPENSCHEHEIDE proceeded along right axis of CC"A" advance and closed into assembly area NW of LANAEKEN (522568). 1st Bn, 66th Armd Regt, continued in Division Reserve. S - 3 REPORT No 83 Hq 1st Bn 66th Armd Rgt

From: 0001 14 September 1944 To: 2400 14 September 1944 Place: 442552 (Bilsen, Belgium)

No.: 83 MAPS: France NE and Belgium Sheet, 1/100,000 1. OUR FRONT LINES: 442552 2. 2. LOCATION OF TROOPS: 442552 3. 3. INFORMATION OF ADJACENT UNITS AND SUPPORTING TROOPS: None 4. 4. WEATHER AND VISIBILITY: Weather good, Visibility Excellent

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5. 5. OUR OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD: Bn moved from bivouac area 442552 at 1430B, arrived at Bilsen (442552) at 1730B, Bn still part of Div Reserve.

6. 6. COMBAT EFFICIENCY: 90 % 7. 7. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: Movement completed S - 3 REPORT No 90 2nd Bn 66th Armd Rgt

From: 132000B To: 142000B Place: ½ mi. Northwest of Lanaeken

No.: 90 MAPS:1/50,000 Scale 1” -.79 miles sheet 46 & 58. 1. OUR FRONT LINES: Not applicable 2. LOCATION OF TROOPS: Vicinity ½ miles of Lanaeken (522568) 4. 4. INFORMATION OF ADJACENT UNITS AND SUPPORTING TROOPS: Not applicable 5. 5. WEATHER AND VISIBILITY: Cloudy & fair. 6. 6. OUR OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD: Left area 1 & ½ miles north of Kempenscheide. (325650) at 1315B

on order of pyramid. Marched along right column axis of advance to Gewaij (490620) at 1600B. Left this area on order & moved into bivouac area at (522568) ¼ mile northwest of Lanaeken. We are still in CC”A” reserve except Co. “D” who is attached to Princess white.

7. 7. COMBAT EFFICIENCY: High Tank status Hq (3) - D (16) - E (16) - A (15) 8. 8. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: Still in CC”A” reserve & are in close contact with forward elements. S - 3 REPORT No ? Hq 3rd Bn 66th Armd Rgt

From: 132200B Sept 44 To: 142200B Sept 44 Place: (558647)

No.. MAPS: 1/50,000 France & Belgium Sheet No: 47: 1. OUR FRONT LINES (Or most advanced elements): Rd blocks at (569655) (571645) (567644) 3. 3. LOCATION OF TROOPS: 1Platoon of “H” Co at (569655) & (567644) 3/66 — (554649) 4. 4. INFORMATION OF ADJACENT UNITS AND SUPPORTING TROOPS: “B” Co 99 Inf — 1 Platoon at

(554649) 1 Platoon “A” Co 17 Engr — 1 Squad at (558649) 5. 5. WEATHER AND VISIBILITY: Cloudy & Warm 6. 6. OUR OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD: Received orders at 0230B at 3/66 with “A” & “B” Co’s 99 Inf —

“A” Co 17 Engr attached to attack in two (2) columns to the east toward the La Meuse River. Left column composed of “G” Co, 1 Plt of “B” Co, “A” Co 99 Inf, 1 Sqd of “A” Co 17 Engr, Assault Gun Plt. Right column composed of “H” Co, 1 Plt of “B” Co, “B” Co 99 Inf, 1 plt of “A” Co 17 Engr — 1 Sqd and Mortar Plt. (this action covers right column only) Our operations for the period: Released from CCA control at 2200B and placed under Regt “A & B” Co’s 99 Inf atchd. “D” Co / 41 relieved at 2400B. D/41 released from atchd to Bn at 0100B. Fired artillery on enemy positions all night. Heard Germans move out during night. Received orders to continue attack to east in two columns. H/66 with B/99 on Tks, Mortar Plt 3/66, 1Plt “B” Co 3/66 and 1 Plt 17 Engr (— ) 1 squad attached under Maj. O’Farrell in right column. “G” Co released from atchd to 2/41 at 0800B. “G” Co with A/99 mounted on Tks, 1 Plt B/66 atchd, AG/3 - 66 + 1 squad of Engr as left column under Maj. Zeien. “O” Force moved out at 0645B with Inf mounted on Tks cleaned out town of Winterslag-Cite and cont. on prescribed route. “Z” Force made initial enemy contact N. of OBJ “4” (waterscheide - cite) Took 30 PW’s, killed 10 Germans. “O”

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Force met light resistance N of town waterscheide - cite. Mopped up all resistance in vicinity of OBJ “4” and cont. advance at 1115B for “O” Force and 1145B for “Z” Force. “Z” Force continued with Inf mounted on Tks to phase line: Yoke. Turned S on phase line - Yoke at 1230B arrived at OBJ “6” at 1300B sent the Plt of light Tks off on the left side of rd. Received AT fire and lost 1 light tank. Reduced 2 road blocks E. of Asch, K.O.D. but not destroyed Lt Deaen - LWA and Evac. Mupped up resistance and reduced rd block. Continued E. at 1425B Rcvd AT fire when lead Tk reached railroad at (504696) also 3 mines. Lifted mines and reduced and more rd blocks E of here with artillery and TK weapons and continued E. OBJ “9” (Lankaer) at 1545B. Hit another rd block (trees across road) at (518679). By passed this on left continued to E. to more fallen trees in cut at (550702). By passed this to right and got back on rd at 1745B and continued to OBJ “9” with Inf proceeding Tks. Firing artillery ahead of Inf. all rd blocks showed signs of hasty retreat many trees had TNT tied to them for cutting but were not blown. Arrived at OBJ “9” Canal just short of Lanklaer at 1804B. Bridge has been blown. One German SP gun K.O.D. by artillery fire at bridge. Rcvd mortar and small arms fire from across Canal had 1 casualty from shell fragments. Secured rd on this side of bridge by 1830B. Rcvd orders from C.O. 66 to continue to secure position and sent out 2 light Tks back on our axis to contact C.O. 66 on right axis for further orders. Outposted area and prepared to spend the night. Artillery guns went in to position and fired concentrations over Canal until 2030B. Assault Guns fired harresing fire until 150100B Sept 44. FA fired concentrations at 150400B Sept 44 and 150500B Sept 44. “O” Force arrived at OBJ “8” (Mechelen) at 1706B. Mopped up resistance and secured OBJ “8” for the night. In securing and mopping up OBJ “8” “O” Force received mortar and MG fire across canal from (579660) 65 FA & 14 FA layed concentrations on E side of canal thru out afternoon & night. A few vehicles & font troops attempted to pass thru OBJ “8” from S. these were eliminated. 1 enemy artillery piece threw occasional rounds thru out afternoon with little effect the rest of period was quiet.

7. 7. COMBAT EFFICIENCY: 95 %, morale excellent 8. 8. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: “Z” Force secured OBJ “9”. “O” Force secured OBJ “8” Total casualties for

“Z” & “O” Force are as follows 30 enemy killed, 41 PW’s taken In addition “O” FORCE destroyed at OBJ “8” : 1 truck, 1 personnel carrier, 1 towed A.A. & A.T. Gun and 1 motorcycle. Both forces prepared to move in any direction.

S - 3 REPORT No ? Maintenance Co 66th Armd Rgt

From: 131800 September 1944 To: 141800 September 1944 Place: Genck, Belgium

No.: MAPS: Sheet #47 France and Belgium, 1/50,000 1. OUR FRONT LINES: Vic of Willems Canal 2. LOCATION OF TROOPS: 2 miles West of Genck, Belgium 3. INFORMATION OF ADJACENT UNITS AND SUPPORTING TROOPS: None 5. 5. WEATHER AND VISIBILITY: Rain - visibility – poor 6. 6. OUR OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD: Maintenance of vehicles. Moved to new area 7. 7. COMBAT EFFICIENCY: 90 % 8. 8. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: Maintenance of vehicles. Located in new area at K404653 S - 3 REPORT No 99 Service Co 66th Armd Rgt

From: 132000 To: 142000 Place:2 mi SE Herck - La - Ville, Belgium

No.: 99 MAPS: same 1. OUR FRONT LINES: no contact

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2. LOCATION OF TROOPS: CP at K228614 4. 4. INFORMATION OF ADJACENT UNITS AND SUPPORTING TROOPS: No elements 66 adjacent 5. 5. WEATHER AND VISIBILITY: cloudy, rain - poor visibility 6. 6. OUR OPERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD: supply duties 7. 7. COMBAT EFFICIENCY: 72 % 8. 8. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: unit supplied From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 67th Armd Rgt 14 Sept.: Regiment remained in assembly area at 405527 alerted for combat and awaiting CC”B” Field Order for operations. CC”B” Field Order received in afternoon. Regiment issued F.O. #28 at 1600B, which was for the operations of a 67th AR Task Force to cross into the “Island” and attack North abreast the 120th Inf Provisional Bn. Task Force composed of 67th AR less 1st and 3rd Bn., Rcn. Co., & Mt. Co., with “G” Co. 41st Inf. and one platoon “B” Co. 17th Engrs. Attached. Arrangements made to attach one medium tank platoon to support the Provisional Infantry Bn. Information was received that the bridge would not be completed until next morning. No operations this date. From: AFTER ACTION REPORT (Battle Report) 14th Armd Field Artillery Bn September 14, 1944. Battalion left old position K358640 at 1100B and moved to new position at K389549 at 1130B. Batteries locations are as follows: A-Btry 38696525, B-Btry 38065437, C-Btry 387666494. Battalion left old position at 1420B and moved to new position at K4536281 at 1455B. Batteries locations are as follows: A-Btry 44116344, B-Brty 45636285, C-Btry 45186290. Battalion left position at K453628 at 1745B and moved into new position K505603 at 1800B. Total miles during the day 11.5 miles. Batteries locations are as follows: A-Btry 50475977, B-Btry 50326013. C-Btry 50766039. Ln Officer from the 65th Armored Field Artillery Battalion is attached for supporting fires. Battalion took prisoners during the day, Ammunition Expended: M48A1 - - - 693 rds, M84 - - - 3 rds. Total - - - 696 rds. From: MONTHLY OPERATIONAL REPORT Hq 41st Armd Inf Regt September 14th: Division Reserve received order to prepare for immediate movement 1030B. Meeting of all unit commanders of Division Reserve 1145B at Division Reserve CP. Instructions issued and plans completed for movement. All road blocks relieved at 1200B in preparation for movement. Division Reserve CP left area (K215597) 1325B and closed bivouac vicinity (K441516) 1800B. ( See attached movement order ). First Battalion, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment, attached to Division Reserve upon arrival of Division Reserve in area (K441516) VOCG, Second Armored Division. Assigned sector secured by units of Division Reserve as shown on attached overlay. Relief of 3rd Battalion, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment, by 1st Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment completed 1930B. Company ”D”, 67th Armored Regiment contacted Company “C”, 66th Armored Regiment across Albert Canal 2000B. From: OPERATION REPORT 17th Armd Engr Bn 14 Sept: Bn (-) moved to area northeast of Tongres, Belgium (K423475). Bridge across Canal northwest Hasselt was removed and entire Bridge Company sent to 1104th Engr Group where it was to reconstruct 600 - foot 50% reinforced bridge across the Meuse River at Maastricht, Holland. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “A” 17th Armd Engr Bn 14 September: Co, less 2 platoons, was attached to 2nd Bn, 66th AR and moved in their column to an area near LANAKEN(K549572), where they were released and ordered to secure the flank of CCA Hq. During the night, 7 prisoners were captured and turned over to CCA.

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OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn ( see 15 September) ANNEX 3 From: OPERATION REPORT Company “C” 17th Armd Engr Bn 14 September: 2nd & 3rd Plat removed Albert Canal Bridge. Departed area at 0600 hrs. 2nd Plat placed bent and road-way runners on an existing bridge, removing treadways from same. Co departed area 2 mi. E. of Wimmerdingen at 1400 hrs and bivouaced 3 mi. NE. Tongres at 1545. Total distance traveled 15 miles. 2nd Plat outposted this area. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “D” 17th Armd Engr Bn 14 September: Guarding bridge over ALBERT CANAL at HASSELT. From: OPERATION REPORT Company “E” 17th Armd Engr Bn 14 September: Constructed 600’ Floating Bridge across MEUSE RIVER at K565528. S - 2 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division 14 September 1944

Time in

Time out

Ser. No.

Time dated

MESSAGES, ORDERS, INCIDENTS, ETC

1 Fr 142 Signal to ? : Division PW enclosure at K315620 at Belgian army Hq. in Hasselt

2 Fr 14 FA: Enemy casualty report 3 0212 Fr S-2 TT: Request that you establish PW enclosure at town 417666 to service

both columns. PW enclosure where located at present is unsatisfactory. Acknowledge

4 0920 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Progress of all patrols is slowed to walk because vehicles cannot get off roads and roads are filled with felled trees

0945 5 131800 Fr 65 FA: Firing reports from 111800 to 131800 0945 6 FR 2 AD: G-2 journal 13 Sept 6 to 42

7 1005 To 2 AD: PW rptd most road blocks in our area are very heavily booby trapped. Especially trees across the road

8 1025 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrols at 426658 investigating some gun positions. Patrol at 445698 no contact reported

1100 9 1025 Fr 2 AD: Felled trees across road are very heavily booby trapped 10 1025 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: 2 stranglers picked up at vicinity 9632 from 12 Co 816 Regt 35

Div. Rest of company left yesterday ordered to get to Germany as they could. Location of other Co. not known

1145 11 1050 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol reports area 426706 is mined. Small trails in all woods that vicinity are mined. Trip wires off roads have been found. Some felled trees across roads have been booby trapped

12 1055 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol to N making very slow advance due rd block and difficult terrain. Have been receiving small arms fire

13 1117 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Points LA, LD, and LC are rptd clear of enemy but many mines and booby traps

14 1135 To All Units: Noon today to noon tomorrow password 15 1140 To 2 AD: Prison labor camp (Russian ) at Winterslag. Capacity 860, deserted. 2

other rptd in vicinity. Few documents picked up being forwarded. 16 1145 To 2 AD: PWs rpt S mines in vicinity Genck. Also state that next defense line is at

Asch 4970 17 1210 Fe 2 AD: Draw maps immediately from map depot at K228586. Depot closes at

1500B 18 1220 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol 450668 moving NE report no resistance but very slow

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advance 19 1245 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: North Patrol has nothing to rpt except there are undefended

road blocks and mines on all roads and trails. Progress is very slow 20 1315 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol at 542766 are in contact with enemy and have taken

PWs fr para outfit. British report a lot of enemy paratroops dropped in that town this A.M.

21 1340 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol destroyed 1 enemy armored car with 3 enemy killed at LFT. Another patrol in town 492738 with some dismounted resistance

22 1400 Fr 195 AAA: Number of unidentified hostile aircraft over area between 132040B & 132100B. Flares & antiaircraft fire obs to the NW. Other unidentified aircraft over area at frequent intervals during night 13 - 14 Sept.

23 1410 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Rd fr LF to LE is very good rd and will take all vehicles. Patrol just east of LF received from AT gun NE of KZ

24 1500 Fr Mt 66: The guards left on the airplanes returned to the Co. today. They turned the care of the planes over to an FFI man. I am sending you his receipt. The planes had been completely stripped before our guards were stationed there, consequently there were no items of intelligence or anything else they could bring back to turn over to you.

25 1515 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol just destroyed 2 3n3my trucks vic. KZ. Patrol clearing road LF to KZ

26 1645 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol at 508648 and 515632 report SA fire along route but enemy seems to be moving east

27 1655 To 2 AD fr 82 Rcn: Patrol rpts 542766 still strongly held by the enemy 28 1800 Fr Mt 66: Negative S-2 rpt 29 1800 Fr Rcn 66: S-2 rpt #94 30 1900 Fr 14 FA: Record of concentrations fired 131910 to 141900B 31 2020 Fr: S-2 66: this A.M. approx 500 inf at La Colonie 546613 asked the direction to

Boorsheim 584622. They were to cross a bridge ( to be built ) at Uykoven 590615. This bridge was not completed by noon today. Enemy was to withdraw to Littard. No SS troops or tanks were seen in the past two days. Troops were inf and arty. Enemy troops were dirty, tired, and some have not eaten for 2 days. 4 enemy 105mm long at 1130B today were seen at 564620 mvg north towards Mechelen. They were horse drawn. Bridge over Albert Canal at Lanaecken blown. Enemy soldiers La Colonie 546613. May still be found. Some soldiers at La Colonie were asking for civilian clothes this a.m. Mechelen is rptd to be clear of enemy. Germans have been using ferry at Mechelen. All info obtained from Belgian secret service

32 2200 To 2 AD: S-2 periodic rpt 33 2230 To 2 AD: PWs rpt entrenchments around Heeswyck 606688 protecting a bridge

being built north of Oykhoven (5960) both bridges for evacuation. Ohren Bn 286 retreating to Elsloo 6138. Supporting arty in vic Sittard

S - 3 JOURNAL HQ. CC A 2nd Armored Division 14 September 1944

Time in

Time out

Ser. No.

Time dated

INCIDENTS, MESSAGES, ORDERS, ETC. Action taken

0130 1 TO: All Units - FO #24 (w/ovly) F 0140 2 FR: 2 AD - B/48 treat stn K400539 F

3 FR: 66 AR - Disp & security F 4 FR: 66 AR - FO #3 (w/ovly) F 5 FR: 65 FA - S-3 Rpts #99 - 100 F

0835 6 FR: Rcn/66 - S-3 Rpt #93 F 1125 7 Lt Col Herkness visit CP (CO 2/66) F 1155 8 Gen Harmon visit CP

9 CP left area vic K355638 at 1500B 10 Coiled off rd 1520B 11 Moved out 1840B

1905 12 Col halted firing in woods to right of rd - tanks left col to inves 1910 13 Resumed march

110

1940 14 Col halted. Lt tks flushing area - rounded up approx 40 PWs 2130 15 Closed in assy area 2210 16 FR: 2/41 - Our KoK has been firing a little. Sitn unchngd.

Everything under control F

2210 17 FR: 14 AFA - S-3 Rpt #97 F 2210 18 FR: Div Res - March table F 2210 19 FR: A/17 - Eng Unit Rpt #105 F 2210 20 FR: 14 FA - S-3 Rpt #14 F 2220 21 FR: 2/66 - Ovly Disp & security 2235 22 FR: 2/41 - neg except KEK rpt encountered S/A fire in village -

66/AR - negative, A/17 - neg, 3/66 neg, 2/66 neg, A/702 - rounding up Germans around area

F

2355 23 FR: 2/41 - Our KEK - S/A fire in village met some ey patrol (KEK - F Co/41st AIR)

F

G - 3 JOURNAL 2nd Armored Division 14 September 1944

NO IN OUT MESSAGE 949 140005 FR CCA: All quiet as of 2400 950 140030 FR DIV ARTY: Situation overlay, 132100B 951 140045 TO XIX CORPS: G-3 periodic report #25 132400B 952 140055 TO CCB: Rcn 67th reverts to your control 140600B; be prepared to move Combat

Command on 1 hours notice after 140800B. bn of inf to be released when CCA crossed Yoke.

953 140055 TO DIV ARTY: Place indertiction fires on Div zone N of ALBERT CANAL. Submit plan of fire to this Hqs as soon as possible.

954 140204 FR CCA AND 41ST: All quiet as of 0200 955 140305 FR 41ST: All quiet as of 0300 956 140400 FR CCA AND 41ST: All quiet as of 0400 957 140510 FR CCA AND 14ST: All quiet as of 0500 958 140550 FR CCB: All quiet during the night 959 140605 FR CCA AND 41ST: All quiet as of 0600 960 140650 FR CCA: Rcn elements with us plus 1/41 and 99th Inf Bn will take off as planned at

0645. 961 140700 FR CCB: All quiet as of 0700 962 140700 FR G-2: G-2 periodic report #88 also G-2 journal 963 140835 FR 11TH ARMD DIV (BR ) (Maj Bassinor): No change in location of British front

elements. Expect no change during 14 Sept. Considerable mopping up still going on. Suggest you inform me when our people pass into British zone to help avoid accidents.

964 140835 FR 11TH ARMD DIV (BR ) (Maj Bassinor): No change on 11th Armd. Div. 965 140855 TO CAPT BACON 30 DIV: Send complete situation 30th Div immediately. 966 140915B FR HQ COMDT: STEEPLE - CHASE (PASSWORD) 141200B Sept - 151200B 967 140915B ADV CP MOVED OUT AT 0900B 968 141030B TO XIX CORPS: SITREP #24. 969 141040 TO 30TH INF DIV ATT: LN O 2ND AD: Report situation 30th Inf Div to reach this Hq

at 0600, 1200, 1800 and 2400 each day. Acknowledge. 970 141055 FR 30TH DIV: G-3 Rpt as of 140200B and ltr of instr. 971 141100 FR LN OFF XIX CORPS: VII Corps enemy front line 7841 - 8836 - 9232 - 8920 light

contact 8218 - 9900. Met stronger resist yesterday, delaying actions from AT guns, pillboxes, MG and mortars. S Aachen met heavy AT fire against armd units. Trouble with dragon teeth. SE Eupen vigorous resist small groups tanks and inf. V Corps: Approx enemy front line P9797 - L0595 - 0389 - 9886 - 9984 - 9683 - 9480 - 9277 - 9373 - 8972 -8870 - 8689 - 8465 - 8658. Then generally along Siegfried Line to L1027 - 0620 - 0919. Activity reported vic P9400. Enemy attacked with tanks 1800B and made slight gains against our rcn elm. Determined resist. P9275 - 8664 S Echternach L0535. Antelope: BR 713477 completely blown 1842B. 4 Cav Gr fwd elm 975005 - 1400B

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972 141120 TO CC”B” & DIV ARTY: Div CP will clear CR at 464512 at 1515B. Powder can move to reach that CR after that time. Engrs will move down there about 1600B.

973 141402 Div CP closed in new bivouac area K464509. 974 141420 FR CCA: Now at E of Yoke and going well 975 141420 TO XIX CORPS: Info in msg #974. 976 141445 FR XIX CORPS: Be careful in cleaning up the island W of MAASTRICHT. 30th Div

have troops on W side of the River. 2 bridges are being construct across the River now at MAASTRICHT

977 141445 TO CCB: Info in msg # 976. 978 141500 Advance journal, 1-17. 979 141500 FR XIX CORPS: G-3 periodic report #99, 140600B 980 141500 FR FUSA: Ltr, Sub: Looting, 19 Aug. Ltr, Sub: Missing & Missin in Action Reports

General orders #54 and #53. 981 141500 FR AG: Special Orders #203, Hqs, 2 AD. General order #37, Hqs, 2 AD 982 141508 TO CCA: Is Polar Bear Rcn clearing area between your S column and the ALBERT

CANAL 983 141520 TO ALL UNITS, LN OFF’S: CP 2 AD located at K462508. 984 141530 FR 30TH DIV: 2/117th has on Co on side of river at MAASTRICHT. No info dtchd Bn

of 120 as they are under Corps. Other units no change. 985 141530 FR LN OFF CORPS ( Capt Bacon): Request location and plans for 99th Inf. 985 141530 FR LN OFF CORPS ( Capt Bacon): Request location and plans for 99th Inf. 986 141530 FR DIV RES: March table, 141200B 987 141545 Fr 17th Armd Engr Bn: Periodic report. 988 141550 TO XIX CORPS: answered by Ln Off Armor, ref msg #985. 989 141600 FR DIV ARTY: Location of 14th FA 418641 990 141600 FR DIV RES: Div Res CP opened 141551B at 441516 991 141600 FR 17 TH ENGR: CP 423476. 992 141700 FR LN OFF 30 TH DIV: (Capt Bacon) : 119th B Co at VALKENBURG 660537. Other

units no change. Request info on 2 AD forward units. 993 141700 FR LN OFF 30 TH DIV: (Capt Bacon) : No changes to report. What is your location.

Require info on CCA and CCB. 994 141710 FR LN OFF 30 TH DIV: (Capt Bacon) : 113th Cav C Trp 500590 less plt in

MAASTRICHT. B troop 475735, A Trp in Grp Res. 125th Cav A trp 480719, C trp 1st plt 710480, 2nd plt 685487. Activity consists of patrols to front and flanks.

995 141715 FR LN OFF CORPS: Info of adjacent units. Sent to C/S, G-1, 2, 4, CWS, G-3 Air by separate msg from this office.

996 141730 FR 82 ND RCN: S-3 report #90. S-3 report #95, 132300B 997 141730 FR GDS ARMD DIV: Intelligence Summary #62, 102300B 998 141730 FR CCA: Sitrep; Colums at obj 6 plus 300 yds and at obj 7 mineu 1500 yds. Obj 8

secured 1615B. Area at BHAV is clear all columns in contact. 999 141730 FR CCA: Heads of colums at 508859, 555658, 520698. Clearing of area behind these

points progressing. CP located at 4563. 1000 141830 FR CCA: CO OF LEFT COL APPROACHING OBJ #9 REPORTS THAT HE

BELIEVES HE WILL BEIN A PRECARIOUS POSITION IF HE ATTEMPTS TO GAIN AND HOLD OBJ #9 REQUESTING DESCISION FR YOUR HQ WHETHER TO HOLD ON 9 OR DRAW BACK AND CONSOLIADATE ON 8

1001 141835 TO CCA: Seize and hold obj #8 and 9 and do not consolidate on 8 unless forced to do so.

1002 141835 FR DIV RES: Div Res closed in assembly area at 1800 1003 141835 FR LN OFF 30TH DIV: Co of 117th on W side of River at MAASTRICHT has made

contact with attached Bn of 120th, Fr Bacon to G-3, no other changes. 1004 141855 Fr Msg Cen. Lines now through to Pontoon and Anchor 1005 141900 FR XIX CORPS: New Armor CP K451471 opens 151100B Sept closes K210515

same time 1006 FR LN OFF 30TH DIV: 1/119 moving to VALKENBURG, to G-3 from Bacon, Co of

117th on W side River Co F vic MAASTRICHT being pulled out. 1007 141930 FR XIX CORPS: Sitrep #196 as of 141200. 2nd AD, CCA continuing atk and clear

area N of Albert Canal, elen of CCA at 4367, 4365, rcn elements at 5766 by moving through the Br zone. Stubborn resistance encountered. 2/120 at 542505 moving N against enemy resistance. 1 Co 2/117 crossed Meuse at MAASTRICHT, crossing

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made from E to W bank. 113th Cav Sq vic 765470. No other changes. 1008 141930 FR 12TH ARMY GP: Battle experiences #38 1009 141930 FR 1ST INF DIV: Field order #49 and situation overlay as of 132000B September

1944 1010 141935 FR LN OFF 11TH AD (BR): Request location of your front elements. No change here 1011 142005 FR CCA: We are on 7, 8, 9 and 10 all bridges between 8 and 9 blown, our plan for

tomorrow is to secure 11 and clean out zone. 1012 142010 FR DIV ARTY: Observers report no enemy on island West of MAASTRICHT Bn

commander of inf units from 30th Div contacted also report few enemy. 1013 142010 FR DIV ARTY: Bn locations, 14th , 505603: 78th 515469; 66th 430677; 62nd 498507;

92nd 433573; 258th 404544 1014 142030 FR LN OFF 11TH AD (BR): Cant fin new CP. From BASSINON. Request location of

Div CP and front elements. CP GDS Armd Div at 3690. CP 11th AD 3984. No changes of front elements, patrol to canal. Please answere on Lsn net.

1015 142030 FR DIV RES: 3/41 AIR released to CCB at 1930B 1016 142030 FR XIX CORPS: Letter of instruction “21 1017 142050 TO 11TH AD (BR): CCA at 5971, 5765 and 5356. Others no changes. CCA cleaned

out as advanced 1018 142100 FR DIV RES: Overlay defensive fires: overlay of patrol areas Div Res; 1019 142100 FR 92ND: S-3 report #104.

FR DIV TNS: S-3 report #105 FR 142ND: S-3 report #102

1020 142100 FR 41st: Relief of Princess Blue completed Python Red at 1930B 1021 142100 FR FUSA: AAA Sitrep #40 1022 142100 FR FUSA: Ltr; Sbjl Clear transmission by wireless (to be passed on in turn) 1023 142100 FR SIG OFF: Items of SOI issued for week beginning 15 Sept compromised use

items 10 Sept for 15 sept except call all signs. New items to be issued for 16 Sept. Notify suborndinates.

1024 142150 FR G-4: Corps reports tjru Div Ord Off 105 How ammunition allowance is 225 rounds per gun for ten day period beginning sept 15. This approximates 23 rounds per gun per day. Notify subordinate units

1025 142215 FR 41 Inf: As of 2200 hrs all quiet. 1026 142220 FR 41ST: Unit that is in bend where 3/41st was has made physical contact with 2/41st. 1027 142250 FR 66TH AR: Request location of your CP 1028 142250 TO 66TH AR: Div CP located 464508 1029 142305 FR DIV RES: Reports all quiet. 1030 142305 FR DIV ARTY: Situation overlay, 142100B 1030 142305 FR 62ND FA: S-3 report #96 1031 142350 FR CCB: FO #44, 142000B S-3 report #101, 142200B 1032 142355 TO ALL CONCERNED: FO #25, 142200B

From: SUMMARY OF EVENTS 99th Infantry Battalion (Separate) On 140645B September, A and B companies were attached to Combat Command A of the 2D Armored Division. At 141345B September, the battalion less A and B companies moved to Walterscheide Cite and at 141830B September, moved one and one-half mile west of Mechelen, Belgium. From: REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) ( see 18 September ) ANNEX 4 From: UNIT HISTORY 16th Infantry Regiment (1st Inf Div) The regiment continued to move on to objectives south of Aachen and stiff resistance from main Siegfried defenses. Heavy casualties were sustained. Numerous obstacles were breached, and another counterattack was repulsed.

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ANNEX ANNEX 1: From: JOURNAL OF EVENTS Company B, 82nd Engr. C. Bn 11 Sept 44 to 19 Sept 44 The rear echelon moved from Molin, Belgium 44 miles to new area at Riempst, Belgium ½ mile south VK 501473 11 Sept 44. On the 12th Sept 44 the rear echelon moved at 1900 hours to Barchon, Belgium VK 543320 crossing the Meuse River at Liege, Belgium. The following afternoon at 1300 hours, they moved 25 miles into bivouac with 113th Group Headquarters at Hoogeruts, Holland VK 666434. The Group had been given the mission on 11 Sept 44 of crossing the Meuse River at Liege and attacking Maastricht from the South. At 0730, 11 Sept 44 the Group moved. However just north of Barchon, Belgium, heavy enemy resistance had been met, and the 2 companies of motorized infantry attached to the Group were used to weed them out. On 13th Sept 44 the Group Headquarters moved into bivouac at Hoogeruts, Holland. The First Platoon, until now held in reserve moved on line with the Third platoon - attached to the 125th Cavalry Squadron. Extensive booby trapped road blocks were being met and removed by these Engineers. Also Engineer reconnaissance of blown bridges was being made. On the 13th Sept 44, the 113th Cavalry Squadron with Second Platoon attached went into Maastricht, captured 380 prisoners and returned to bivouac at VK 586445, 3 miles West of Vise, Belgium. On the 15th Sept 44 the First and Third Platoon moved into Gulpen, Holland VK 700478 to reinforce tank destroyers in the security of the town. The night 15 - 16 Sept the First and third Platoons were under intense artillery fire at Gulpen -one truck was knocked out with shrapnel holes in the radiator. Pvt Torres was LIA with barbed wire cur on eyelid, Pvt Lazor was LWA with shell fragments in left hand. On the morning of the 16 Sept 44, the Second and Third Platoons moved into bivouac with the rear echelon at Hoogeruts, Holland. The First Platoon remained attached to the 125th Cavalry squadron. On 18th Sept 44 the Third Platoon rejoined the First Platoon and the 125th Cavalry Squadron. The Squadron’s mission was to guard the right flank of the 30th Division. The remainder of the Group was awaiting a new mission. On 19 Sept 44 the Commanding Officer 113th Cavalry group was given a task force consisting of 1 battalion of Engineers, One Battalion of tanks, and 1 Company of TD’s, 113th Cavalry Squadron. “B” Company (Second Platoon) remained attached. The rear echelon and Co Headquarters and Second Platoon B Company moved with Group Headquarters from Hoogeruts, Holland 20 miles to bivouac area, ½ miles South-East of Krawinkel, Holland, VK 658637. The First and Third Platoons remained attached to 125th Cavalry Squadron, maintaining road blocks, and security in conjunction with the Squadron. First Platoon was in bivouac at VK 782510 and the Third platoon at VK 764484. ANNEX 2: From: AFTER ACTION REPORT 82nd Engr. C. Bn In the afternoon 13th September the battalion forward echelon plus Companies “A” and “C” moved to an advance assembly area to construct the bridge across the Albert Canal. The 503rd Light Ponton (Bailey Bridge) company was attached to furnish the bridge. The bridge was begun 141100 September 1944. The length of bridge was 140 feet and it was decided to build a double double Bailey bridge reinforced with a floating pier in the center. The bridge was constructed and launched 141830 September , but the launching nose failed and the bridge collapsed into the canal. The battalion withdrew for the night and salvage operations began next morning. The bridge was removed from the canal and reconstructed. It was relaunched 152200 September and this time went into place without failure. The bridge was opened for traffic 160900 September 1944. ANNEX 3:

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From: OPERATION REPORT Company “B” 17th Armd Engr Bn 13 - 15 September: On 13 September commenced attack toward Maastricht. Crossed Albert Canal and passed through Maastricht, Holland, at 2155 hours, 15 September. ANNEX 4: From: REPORT AFTER ACTION 1st Rcn Troop ( 1st Inf Div ) On the 18th of September, static positions were taken up, and held until the end of the period. ANNEX 5: From: AFTER ACTION REPORT113th Cavalry Group (Mecz) 14 - 15 Sept: One Bn of the 117th RCT had seized MAASTRICHT, and the 113th Sq was directed to maintain contact between that Bn and the remainder of the 117th. This mission was carried out by Tr “C”. Tr “C” also maintained an OP at 532535 and completed “moping up” in its zone south of MAASTRICHT. Tr “A” remained in Gp reserve and Tr “B” remained attached to the 125th Sq. The rest of the Sq conducted intensive maintenance and resupply. On the Div right flank, the 125th Sq continued to carry out active patrolling in its sector, maintaining physical contact with the enemy and repoting enemy activity to the north and east. OP’s were established in each troop zone and contact was maintained with the 1st Inf Div of the VII Corps The 125th Sq CP was established at K693469. Tr “A” held the high ground vic K703468. Tr “C” established an OP on the high ground at K708455 and its line extended east to K7044. Tr “C” CP was at K708463. Tr “B” 113th Sq, attached to 125th Sq, had its CP at 769469 and held the line K769469 to K738467. Tr “B” also sent hourly contact patrols to the 1st Div on the right. At152000, the Gp Co was called to the CP of the 30th Div and instructed to assemble the Gp, less the 125th Sq which was to remain attached to the 30th Div , in present area and pass into XIX Corps reserve. Assembly of the Gp was completed early 16 Sept (the 113th Sq assembled southeast of MAASTRICHT and the Gp CP remained at K665434) and a period of intense maintenance, resupply, reorganization, and recreation was commenced.

Abbreviations AA Anti Aircraft 1. AAA Anti Aircraft Artillery 2. AAF Allied Air Forces 3. AAR After Action Report 4. AB Airborne 5. Abn Airborne 6. AC of S Assistant Chief of Staff 7. Ack Acknowledge 8. AD Armored Division 9. ADO Assistant Directorate of Organization 10. AFA Armored Field Artillery 11. AFV Armored Fighting Vehicles 12. AG Adjutant General 13. AG Assault Gun 14. AIR Armored Infantry Regiment 15. AMAZON Codename 62nd Engineer Topography Company 16. ANCHOR Codename 1104th Engineer Group 17. ANTELOPE Codename 113th Cavalry Group 18. APPLE Codename 12th Anti Aircraft Artillery Group 19. APRICOT Codename1115th Engineer Group 20.

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AR Armored Regiment 21. ARCHDUKE Codename HQ XIX Corps Artillery 22. Armd Armored 23. ARMOR Codename HQ XIX Corps 24. AROMA Codename 62nd Medical Battalion 25. arty Artillery 26. Arty Artillery 27. asgd Assigned 28. ASPRIN Codename 4045th QM Service Company 29. assem Assembly 30. assy Assemble 31. ASTOR Codename 4046th QM Service Company 32. ASTRIDE Codename 3252nd Signal Service Company 33. AT Anti –Tank 34. atch Attached 35. atchd Attached 36. ATOM Codename 2nd Signal Battalion 37. att Attention 38. AW Automatic Weapons 39. AWARD Codename 1st QM Battalion 40. AZURE Codename 2nd Tank Destroyer Group 41. BAR Browning Automatic Rifle 42. Bct Battalion Combat Team 43. BFI Belgian Resistance 44. BISHOP Codename 79th Infantry Division 45. Bn Battalion 46. bn Battalion 47. Bomb. Bombardment 48. Br British 49. Br Bridge 50. Brig Brigade 51. BUTTERSCOTCH Codename 8th British Corps 52. C/S Chief of Staff 53. C/S Chief of Staff 54. CAO Chief Administrative Officer 55. Capt Captain 56. Cav Cavalry 57. CCA Combat Command A 58. CCB Combat Command B 59. CCR Combat Command Reserve 60. CG Commanding General 61. Civ Civilian 62. Civs Civilians 63. clm Column 64. Cmdr Commander 65. CO Commanding Officer 66. Co Company 67. CO’s Companies 68. col Column 69. Col Colonel 70. cols Columns 71. COS Chief of Staff 72. Cos Companies 73. COSTUME Codename 30th Infantry Division 74. CP Command Post 75. Cp Command Post 76.

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Cpl Corporal 77. cr Cross road 78. CR Cross road 79. DCS Deputy Chief of Staff 80. Disp Disposition 81. DIV Division 82. div Division 83. Dtd Dated 84. E East 85. ea Each 86. ele Elements 87. EM Enlisted Men 88. Engr Engineers 89. est Estimate 90. ETO European Theatre of Operations 91. ETOUSA European Theatre of Operations, United States Army 92. Evng Evening 93. Ex O Executive Officer 94. ey Enemy 95. FA Field Artillery 96. FFI French Resistance 97. Flak Fliegerabwehrkanone (German word for Anti Aircraft gun ) 98. flak Fliegerabwehrkanone (German word for Anti Aircraft gun ) 99. FO Field Order 100. fr From 101. Fr From 102. ft Feet 103. FUSA Fist U.S. Army 104. FUSAG First U.S. Army Group 105. FW Focke Wulf (German airplane manufactory ) 106. Fwd Forward 107. G-1 Personnel and Administration section in a Division or Corps 108. G-2 Intelligence section in a Division or Corps 109. G-3 Operations section in a Division or Corps 110. G-4 Supply section in a Division or Corps 111. G-5 Public Relations section in a Division or Corps 112. GAF German Air Force 113. Gds Guards 114. Genlt Generalleutnant (German word for Lt. General ) 115. GHQ General Headquarters 116. GO General Orders 117. Gp Group 118. GP Group 119. GP General Purpose 120. Gren Grandier 121. H/track Half-track 122. HE High Explosive 123. hows Howitzers 124. HQ Headquarters 125. hrs Hours 126. HT Half-Track 127. Immed Immediate 128. incl Include 129. incl Including 130. inf Infantry 131. Inf Infantry 132.

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Int Intelligence 133. Jnl Journal 134. JU Junkers (German airplane manufactory ) 135. K.G. Kampfggruppe (German word for Batle Group) 136. KIA Killed In Action 137. km Kilometer 138. Ko’d Knocked out 139. LAGOON Codename 115th Inf Regt (29th Inf Div) 140. LARK SPUR Codename Artillery (29th Inf Div) 141. LATITUDE Codename 29th Infantry Division 142. LD Line of Defence 143. LIMESTONE Codename 175th INF Regt (29th Inf Div) 144. LINOLEUM Codename 116th Inf Regt (29th Inf Div) 145. Ln Off Liaison Officer 146. LO Liaison Officer 147. Log Logistical 148. Lt Lieutenant 149. Lt Light 150. Ltr Letter 151. LWA Light Wounded in Action 152. M4 Sherman tank 153. MASTER Codename First U.S. Army 154. MAYFAIR Codename 634th Anti Aircraft Artillery (AW) Battalion 155. MBL Mobile 156. MC Message Center 157. ME Messerschmitt (German airplane manufactory ) 158. Mecz Mechanized 159. Med Medical 160. Med Medium 161. MG Machine Gun 162. MIA Missing In Action 163. MK Mark 164. Mk Mark 165. MLR Main Line of Resistance 166. Mng Morning 167. MP Military Police 168. msg Message 169. Msgr Messenger 170. msgs Messages 171. Mtg Meeting 172. N North 173. NUSA Ninth U.S. Army 174. OB Observer 175. obj Objective 176. Off Officer 177. Opn Operation 178. Ord Ordance 179. org Organization 180. Ovly Overlay 181. PAK Panzerabwherkanone (German word for Anti Tank gun ) 182. pak Panzerabwherkanone (German word for Anti Tank gun ) 183. Pfc Private First Class 184. PGR Panzer Grenadier Regiment 185. PL Phase Line 186. Plat Platoon 187. Plt Platoon 188.

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Posns Positions 189. POWERHOUSE Codename 2nd Armored Division 190. pt Point 191. PW Prisoner of War 192. PWI Prisoner of War Interrogation 193. PZ Panzer 194. Pz Panzer 195. QM Quartermaster 196. Rcn Reconnaissance 197. rd Road 198. recd Received 199. Regt Regiment 200. Res Reserve 201. Resv Reserve 202. RJ Road junction 203. Rpt Report 204. rptd Reported 205. RR Rail Road 206. rr Rail Road 207. rt Right 208. S South 209. S-1 Personnel and Administration section in smaller units (Regt, Bn, Sq.) 210. S-2 Intelligence section in smaller units (Regt, Bn, Sq.) 211. S-3 Operations section in smaller units (Regt, Bn, Sq.) 212. S-4 Supply section in smaller units (Regt, Bn, Sq.) 213. S-5 Public Relations section in smaller units (Regt, Bn, Sq.) 214. SCR Signal Corps Radio 215. Sep September 216. Sep Separate 217. Serv Service 218. Sgt Sergeant 219. Shellreps Shell reports 220. Sitrep Situation report 221. SP Self Propelled 222. Sq Squadron 223. Sqdn Squadron 224. SWA Serious Wounded in Action 225. TAC Tactical Air Command 226. TAC R Tactical Reconnaissance 227. TD Tank Destroyers 228. Telecon Telephone conservation 229. Telg Telegram 230. TF Task Force 231. TFS Task Force Stokes 232. Tk Tank 233. Tks Tanks 234. TM Technical Manual 235. Tng Training 236. Tr Troop 237. trps Troops 238. TUSA Third U.S. Army 239. TWX Teletype message 240. vic vicinity 241. W West 242. w/o With overlay 243. W/R War Room 244.

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WP Water Point 245. WP White Phosphorus 246. WR War Room 247. yds Yards 248. yr Your 249.

This entire file will be updated ones a year