Wednesday – 1st November 19441
Wednesday – 1st November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report2
Wednesday – 1st November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report3
Wednesday – 1st November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report4
Wednesday -1st November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report5
Wednesday – 1st November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report6
Thursday – 2nd November 19447
XX Corp, in order to minimize the effect of stringent ammunition restrictions, employed thirty-nine captured artillery pieces, including some the Germans had taken from the French and Russians. To date the Corps had fired 30,920 rounds of captured ammunition valued at $702,391.
Thursday – 2nd November 19448
XX Corp, in order to minimize the effect of stringent ammunition restrictions, was employing thirty-nine captured artillery pieces as follows
4 – 7.62mm Guns (Russian)
10 – 88mm Guns (German)
8 – 100mm Fortress Guns
6 – 105mm Gun-Howitzers (German)
2 – 122mm Guns (Russian)
6 – 150mm Howitzers (German)
3 – 155mm Howitzers Schneider (French)
To date the Corps had fired 30,920 rounds of captured ammunition weighing 660 tones and valued at $703,391
Thursday – 2nd November 19449
Usual organizational activities
Ammo job Fine (France)
Thursday – 2nd November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report11
Toul, France vU6410
Burnette, Joseph M. 33 224 012 Pvt.
Johanson, Marion Q. 35 625 728 Pvt.
Teems, Ardrel F. 20 367 383 Pvt.
Above 4 EM dy to ar in qrs 29 Oct 44 &
ar in qrs to conf Post Stockade awaiting
trial for violation of AW 96.
Hendry, Ernest FA (Ar) 01 176 997 2nd Lt.
Ar in qrs to dy 4 Oct 44. Tried and
convicted 4 Oct 44 of violation of AW 61
Action of Reviewing Authority pending
Thursday – 2nd November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report12
Friday – 3rd November 194413
XX Corps (the 5th, 83rd, 90th, and 95th Infantry Divisions, the 20th Armored Division and supporting troops) was to contain the Metz (U85) defensive works west of the Moselle River. It was to cross the Moselle River in the vicinity of Koeigsmacker (U99) with a minimum of one infantry and one armored division and seize rail and road facilities in the vicinity of Boulay (Q16). XX Corps was to be granted access to the area south of the line Bittemburg (P80) – Remich (L06), both inclusive. In conjunction with XII corps, it was to destroy any enemy forces withdrawing from Metz (U85) area. The corps was to exercise operational control over the 83rd Infantry Division, which was to move across the Moselle River through an established bridgehead, clear the area between the Moselle and Saar rivers and seize crossings of the Saar River in the vicinity of Saarburg (L11).
XX Corps was to send a strong armored reconnaissance force to the Saar River to locate crossings in addition to the main crossing in vicinity of Saarburg (L11). Its mission was to cross the Moselle River as soon as crossings were available in XX Corps bridgeheads, push rapidly east to the Saar River and secure any bridges which were intact.
Friday – 3rd November 194414
Usual organizational activities
Friday – 3rd November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report15
Friday – 3rd November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report16
Friday – 3rd November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report17
From Provost Marshal
—————————————————————-
To XX Corps
XX Corps Shoulder Patch –
United States Army Institute of Heraldry18
XX UNITED STATES ARMY CORPS
HERALDIC ITEMS19
SHOULDER SLEEVE INSIGNIA
Description:
On a blue shield with a red border within a yellow orle four yellow crampons interlaced saltirewise.
Symbolism:
Blue, red, and yellow are the colors associated with the main arms or the corps,
infantry, artillery, and cavalry, while the crampons represent the gripping and tenacious
hold the corps displays in its missions. The figures convey the impression of the number
of the corps.
DISTINCTIVE UNIT INSIGHIA
None approved.
LINEAGE AND HONORS
HEADQUARTERS
XX UNITED STATES ARMY CORPS20
RA
LINEAGE (inactive)
Constituted 27 August 1942 in the Army of the United States as Headquarters, IV Armored Corps. Activated 5 September 1942 at Camp Young, California. Reorganized and redesignated 10 October1943 as Headquarters, XX Corps. Inactivated 1 March 1946 in Germany. Redesignated 5 August 1957 as Headquarters, XX United States Army Corps, and allotted to the Regular Army. Activated 20 September 1957 at Fort Hayes, Ohio. Inactivated 5 June 1970 at Fort Hays, Ohio.
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT
World War II
Normandy
Northern France
Rhineland
Ardennes-Alsace
Central Europe
DECORATIONS
None.
Saturday – 4th November 194421
The 244th Field Artillery Battalion received its primary mission on 5th November and was relieved from assignment with the Provost Marshal, Third U.S. Army. The police guard, and postal detail furnished by the 736th Field Artillery Battalion reverted to their organization so that all personnel would be available for duty in the event two Army Prisoner of War Enclosures would be opened by the 734th Field Artillery Battalion.
Saturday – 4th November 194422
Enemy patrols and artillery were active in III Corps zone, while a violent enemy counter attack north of Berg (wQ1199) regained high ground which XX Corps had captured. Considerable artillery fire from Fort Driant (U75) and Fort Verdun (U75) fell on Noveant (U74) and Gorse (U75).
Saturday – 4th November 194423
Battalion relieved of duty with Provost Marshal, Third U.S. Army, and attached to XX Corps. Primary mission: Operation of capture foreign artillery weapons.
Saturday – 4th November 194424
On 4th November 1944 the Battalion was relieve of duty with the Provost Marshal, Third U.S. Army, and attached to XX Corps with the primary mission of firing capture foreign weapons. Initially, gun sections were place on detached service with the Field Artillery Battalions of XX Corps and manned the foreign weapons which these Battalions then had.
Saturday – 4th November 194425
We were relieved of attachment to the Provost Marshal, Third U.S. Army and attached to XX Corps with the mission of firing captured enemy weapons. With the CP at Jarny we became the first 36-gun Battalion covering a 36-mile front. We fired German, Russian, French artillery pieces of six different calibers. We were assigned as direct support troops to the 5th and 95th Infantry Divisions during the envelopment of Metz. The city itself, except for scattered sniper fire, had been cleared but the surrounding forts still held out. We billeted in the Von Mannstein Caserne and fired our guns from the parade grounds one by one the
Note: Today the address of the Von Mannstein Caserne is 57950 Montigny-lès-Metz, France. Bordered by the streets: Rue Saint-André, Rue Général Franiatte, Rue de Marly, Rue Président J F Kennedy. The Von Mannstein Caserne has changed considerably since 1945.
Saturday – 4th November 194426
Byron G. Rogers, A Battery
On November 4, 1944, we were attached to the XX Corp of the U.S. Third Army with the mission of captured enemy weapons. We became the first 36-gun battalion covering a 60-mile front. We fired German, Russian, and French artillery pieces of six different calibers. A mixture of sleet, rain, cold, and fog made miserable days and nights. Mud was knee deep and we could hardly travel. At Metz, France, Patton was determined to advance to the Siegfried Line over 60 miles away in a few days. The weather hindered us from his goal. At night our bedrolls were wet and muddy, and we were shivering from the cold. The storm that night left 6 inches of snow on the ground.
Saturday – 4th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report27
From November Fort Sill Field Artillery Journal
Sunday – 5th November 194428
Battalion less rear echelon, departed Toul, France at 1000. Arrived Jarny, France at 1300. Distance marched 53 miles. Weather: Cold and rainy. Morale: Excellent. CP established at 1315. Batteries of Battalion at following coordinates.
Hq, Sv and Medics: vU6563
“A” Battery: vU6969 – Supporting 359th FA Battalion.
“B” Battery: vU6969 – Supporting 920th FA Battalion.
“C” Battery: vU6969 – Supporting 360th FA Battalion.
Sunday – 5th November 194429
The Battalion departed Toul France. No more PW’s
Sunday – 5th November 194430
The Battalion arrived Jarny France
Sunday – 5th November 194431
Left Toul (France) after talk by Col. Davis, 244th handled 70,000 prisoners. Arrived Valleroy (France) 15 km from front
Sunday – 5th November 194432
With the CP in Jarny and the Battalion we became the first 36 gun Battalion covering a 60 mile front. We fired German, Russian and French artillery pieces of six different calibers. We were assigned as direct support troops to the 5th ad 95th Infantry Divisions during the encirclement of Metz. The City itself, except for scattered sniper fire, had been cleared but the surrendering forts still held out. We billeted in the Von Manstein Kaserne and fired our gun from the parade ground.
Interview with Robert Bishop33
Well, in October the battalion moved to the Raguhn in the Metz area to fire captured weapons, and a regular battalion has 12 artillery pieces, and we were the first ever to have a 36-gun battalion covering a 60-mile front, and we were firing captured enemy artillery and they were French Howitzers, a German 88’s and Russian 150’s. And B Battery was firing from a parade ground in the Metz area. Of course, there were barracks right behind us and was kind of nice, and we were credited — the battalion was anyway — was credited with knocking out a German railroad gun. And we did hear these — these shells come over, and I heard someone say it sounded like a boxcar coming in sideways, and it did. Thank God we weren’t on the receiving end of these. I pity the ones that were.
Note on this entry above – I have been unable to locate “Raguhn in the Metz area” as described above. That’s not to say it isn’t there, just that “I” am unable to find it.
Caption reads – “Big Bertha”. The German railroad gun knocked out by the 244th.
Note: This appears to be an 80 centimeter (800mm) (31″ bore diameter) the largest gun fired during WWII.
Colonel Davis Paper34
We made jumps in the prisoner of war enclosure of as much as 175 miles; the armored divisions of the Third Army were moving so fast. We located, for instance, right outside of Metz, which was being strongly defended. We stayed there for, I think, almost a month, right outside of Verdun.
Sunday – 5th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report35
Sunday – 5th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report36
Sunday – 5th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report37
Sunday – 5th November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report38
Sunday – 5th November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report39
Colonel Davis Papers40
One of the interesting things is that we took over captured guns from some of the regular artillery and fired those captured German guns. So, in addition to having the prisoner of war enclosure, our batteries fired and captured enemy guns and ammunition. Our prisoner of war duties started to taper off and we were attached then to the XX Corps as we ended up our prisoner of war enclosure business with the mission of firing captured enemy weapons. We became the first 36-gun battalion covering the 60-mile front. We fired German, Russian, and French artillery pieces of six different calibers.
Utilization of Capture Guns And Ammunition41
It became necessary late in September to conserve artillery ammunition and to reduce ammunition expenditures to some extent for the time-being. Reconnaissance parties from Corps Artillery, Ordnance, and G-4 sections were sent out all over France to locate weapons, sights, spare parts, and ammunition of foreign manufacture. It was hoped that German, French, Russian or Italian guns and ammunition captured from the Germans could be found and utilized.
This search was successful. The guns were located, as well as complete rounds of ammunition to match. The weapons were brought to the 537th Ordnance Company (Heavy Maintenance, Field Artillery) which, in conjunction with a XX Corps Artillery team, thoroughly repaired, services, checked and test-fired each weapon. The ammunition was carefully checked by the same Ordnance – Artillery team. The final result of this effort produced and turned over to the Corps Artillery: (10) German 88 mm guns, four (4) Russian 76.2 mm guns, two (2) Russian 122 mm guns, six (6) German 105 mm howitzers, three (3) French 155 mm howitzers (Schneider), six (6) German 150 mm Infantry howitzers, eight (8) 100 mm French fort guns, turret mounted, in Fort Guentrauge.
The 100 mm Fort guns were of German design and had been mounted in about 1900. Improvements had been made on the fort by the Germans, the French, and again the Germans. The guns were mounted on a pedestal mount, each in a hand-powered armored turret. Ammunition was prepared in rooms below the guns and hoisted by hand-powered conveyors to the turrets. Projectiles were fuzzed in the turret with delay, quick, or super-quick fuzzes. Ammunition was separate loading, employing a re-usable cartridge case. Propelling charges were made up in small sacked increments and primers were of the percussion type designed to screw into the vase of the cartridge case. No firing tables were available, so it was necessary to determine a range-elevation relationship by firing. The 241st 105mm, Field Artillery Battalion (XX Corps, 416th Field Artillery Group) conducted extensive firing with the guns against German positions on the east side of the Moselle and in the German held portions of Thoinville. These guns were in action for approximately one month and fired 7,142 rounds with excellent effort.
The principle difficulty encountered with using the captured guns was a lack of sights. There were practically no German sights or sight mounts available, the Germans having removed or destroyed most of the, whereupon Ordnance instrument personnel modified spare American sight brackets and mounts to fit the captured equipment. Spare parts were obtained from damaged guns that littered the roadsides and with much improvisation and ingenuity; Ordnance armament men were able to keep the guns in constant operation.
Firing tables were a problem as the only ones obtainable at first were abbreviated 88 mm Tables. Range elevation tables for the different type guns were worked out from firing results. The weapons then were used very satisfactorily against targets of opportunity and for harassing and interdiction missions. It was not deemed advisable to use them on close-support millions. On several occasions the guns were massed, along with American artillery. To fire TOT’s on German positions. Results of the massing were very good.
The 949th 155 mm, Field Artillery Battalion (193rd Field Artillery Group) commander felt certain that the French 155 mm howitzer (Schneider) powder and projectiles could be used satisfactorily in his American 155 mm (M-1) howitzers, and on approval of the Corps Artillery Commander, the Battalion with the assistance of the Corps Ordnance Officer conducted a series of tests. These proved very successful, whereupon the battalion shot out corrections and build up range tables for Schneider ammunition fired in American 155 mm howitzers. All Corps medium howitzers thereafter fired some captured Schneider ammunition. The Graphical Firing Tales with appropriate corrections were used.
The captured weapons were in action for a little more than a month. On November 14th the weapons were turned over to the 244th Field Artillery Battalion of III Corps Artillery. The Artillery with the XX Corps was then heavily engaged in supporting the final attack on Metz. The following total amounts of ammunition were fired in the captured weapons during period 15th September to 15th October:
| 100mm Fortress Guns | 7,142 |
| 88mm Guns | 8,469 |
| 76.2mm Guns | 6,763 |
| 122mm Guns | 313 |
| 105mm Howitzer | 8,160 |
| 155mm Howitzer (Schneider) | 9,337 |
| 150mm Infantry Howitzers | 1,818 |
| Total | 42,002 |
The use of the captured guns, and captured ammunition assisted in keeping the enemy off balance and under constant harassment during the period of the build-up for the final attack on Metz. The application of ingenuity, cooperation, technical knowledge and hard work on the part of all concerned contributed greatly to this end.
Maps42
To assist the Artillery, a project consisting of six 1/000,000 quadrangles was overprinted with trig data. The plotting and checking were done by Third U.S. Army and the production, consisting of 1,000 prints, was done by the Communications Zone planting Paris (S-0544).
A system for transposing German trig data to existing theater grid was worked out by Third U.S. Army in conjunction with Twelfth U.S. Army Group. Work on a graphic solution covering this transformation was carried on.
M4 Tractor pulls a captured German 8.8cm Fliegerabwehrkanone 36 gun to artillery ordnance and use against German Forts in the Metz area.
Monday – 6th November 194443
Increasing his artillery fire, the enemy placed heavy concentrations in Germecey (Q02) and Bioncourt (U92) in XII Corps zone and sent out night patrols to capture prisoners. Heavy artillery concentrations also fell in the vicinity of Arnaville (U74) and elsewhere in the XX Corps bridgehead across the Moselle River.
Artillery ammunition again became available for expenditure in substantial quantities. Since late October all artillery with the Third U.S. Army had planned for participation in the coordinated attack along the entire Army front and new positions were prepared and occupied. Extensive relocation of artillery was carried out in XX Corps area, the mass of batteries being transferred to the extreme north flank in the vicinity of Bois D’Ottange (U79) to support the 90th Infantry Divisions bridgehead operations at Kœnigsmacker (U98).
Monday – 6th November 194444
Byron G. Rogers, A Battery
During this time my Captain (William Savage) had plans to meet his girlfriend for the weekend. She was a nurse with the Red Cross. Supplies were limited and we did not have enough gasoline for his jeep to make the trip. He instructed me to find some fuel, so he could leave. The only fuel I found was airplane fuel, so I filled up the jeep. He met the girl, and was on his way back to us, when he crashed the jeep. It didn’t hurt him, but the jeep had some damage. He called me in and asked what I had done to the jeep. I told him I had done as ordered, “put fuel in the jeep.” He then asked me where I got the “fuel”, and I informed him it was airplane fuel. He was not real happy, but he didn’t do anything to me, and he did get to visit his girlfriend. He sent one of the other fellows to find parts for the jeep, and repair it. Losh (Pfc. R. Losh) had it up and running in no time, with no one questioning where the parts had come from. He was good at “finding things” when we needed him to.
Red Cross personnel “Paula” in Nancy France, Captain William U. (Dock) Savage married Paula the “girlfriend” referred to by T/5 Byron G. Rogers A Battery.
Monday – 6th November 194445
Battalion commander left CP at 0615 to inspect firing battery positions; arrived back at CP at 1745.
Monday – 6th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report46
Dear Family,
Got a letter from you saying that you had gotten the perfume. Did you get both boxes I sent? Shoes ect? Don’t remember you ever saying you got them both. Also – did Dad get my letters on my statement of funds? Also did Peg get my special letter? Dad’s letters haven’t been coming through at all. Your letter with the stamp came. Don’t need any more ‘cause I can buy them here. I could use some air mail stationery – thin paper. If you have sent it – no need of anymore. Got a nice box from Jane Cigs, bottles if nuts & candy bars. We’re having some as I told you last night. We found out what our job was to be and it’s a dilly. Hope I keep getting your letters as well and fast as I have been. More later on
Love
Tom.
Tuesday – 7th November 194447
Usual organizational activities
Tuesday – 7th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report48
Tuesday – 7th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report49
Tuesday – 7th November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report50
Dear Folks,
Another bad day of rain and high wind. It’s terrible outside and I’m inside. We moved to a school – B & C Battery are inside – the officers are living in a house – a coke stove is keeping us warm. We are in the iron mining area. It’s nice country but the weather makes it so rotten we are going to leave soon – we are going out shooting in a few days – we are gathering all sorts of odds & ends in the way of guns. Haven’t done any flying for a week or so – hope to get in a little more in a week or so, Max and I are a good team – we are cautious and take no chances. Told you about the box from Jane – nuts in jars are the only thing for overseas shipment. Jane can spare the smokes – if they’re so scarce at home I forgot there were 3 smokers. Jane just sends me a carton of Camels – so I’m doing ok. You keep’em – I’m issued some each week – but it just isn’t enough when I’m working.
I’ve caught a “wee” cold it makes me cough a little, but little or not its troublesome.
Capt. Torres has been away for four days – he’ll be back with us tomorrow.
Got another couple of pictures from Jane. Both taken at Jacksonville Beach on her recent vacation. She sure looks nice and brown. Have you heard from her recently! She enjoys writing to you. Whatever do you talk about? I’m kind of tired and am ready for bed so I guess I’ll better hit the hay. Will drop you a line in a day or so to let you know how things go.
Love to all
Tom.
8th November to 2nd December – Third Army At Metz51
Wednesday – 8th November 194452
Third U.S. Army at 0600 on 8 November opened the Battle of Germany which dashed the enemy’s hopes for a winter breathing spell during which he could rest, refit and reorganize his battered divisions. Without benefit of preliminary aerial bombardment, in rain and with unprecedented flood conditions prevailing, the attack as German prisoners later stated, achieved total surprise, for the enemy considered it impossible for Third U.S. Army to launch an offensive under such unfavorable weather and terrain conditions.
Launched by XII Corps with the 26th, 35th and 80th Infantry Divisions, the attack progressed well during the period. The 328th Infantry (26th Infantry Division) drove from a vicinity west of Moncourt (Q11) through Moncourt (Q11) and Bezange La Petite (Q11). The 101st Infantry (26th Infantry Division) crossed the canal northeast of Moyenvic (Q12), while elements of the 104th Infantry drove into Vic-Sur-Seille (Q12). In the 35th Infantry Division zone, the 320th Infantry passed through Fresnes-En-Saulnois (Q02) while elements of the 137th Infantry occupied Malaucourt-Sur-Seille (U92) and Jallacourt (Q02). At the same time the 80th Infantry Division was advancing with the 319th Infantry passing through Aulnois-Sur-Seille (U93), the 318th Infantry in Mailly-Surseille (U93) and the 317th Infantry east of Clemeery (U83). The Corps had the 26th Infantry Division in the south, the 35th Infantry Division in the center and the 80th Infantry Division on the north.
There was no activity in XX Corps zone other than continued relief of the 10th Armored Division by the 95th Infantry Division.
Experiments were made with a new anti-concussion device for artillerymen. Made of acrylic, plastic, and molded to fit the individual ear. The device afforded considerable relief from concussions, according to tests made under fire.
Wednesday – 8th November 194453
Rear Echelon joined Battalion at 1530. Battalion Commander and S-3 left CP at 1000 to inspect firing batteries; returned at 1800 hours.
Wednesday – 8th November 194454
Launching a drive against the strong-fortified city of Metz (U85), XX Corps advanced in the face of determined enemy opposition and the handicap of flood conditions along the Moselle River. The 5th Infantry Division jumped off first with a strong attack, followed shortly by coordinated drives of the other divisions of the corps. XII Corps continued its attack, employing the 26th Infantry Division east of Nancy (U81), with the 104th Infantry advancing to the vicinity of Château-Salins (Q12) and the 328th Infantry moving south of Hoéville (Q01).
The 5th Infantry Division advanced through Cheminot (U84) I south of Metz (U85) while the 90th Infantry Division established bridgeheads across the Moselle River near Thionville (U88). DUKWs standard two and one-half ton amphibious vehicles I were used by the 90th Infantry Division in its crossing of the Moselle, this experimental mission being entirely successful. Artillery in support of the 90th Infantry Division opened fire at H-hour, surprise being considered essential to the night attack. Counter battery and prearranged fires continued until H – 120. Enemy artillery opposition to the attack was extremely light, only the fortress guns at Metz (U85) firing heavily.
In the 5th Infantry Division’s crossings of the Seille and Moselle Rivers in XX Corps zone it was considered at the beginning of operations that existing bridges over the Moselle at Arnaville (U74), Pagny (U74), Vandières (U74) and Pont-à-Mousson (U73) were adequate. Continued rains, however, caused other rivers in the area to rise to flood heights, inundating the entire plain across the Mosselle valley and washing out all bridges except the one at Pont-à-Mousson (U73), a high-level structure.
Wednesday – 8th November 194455
Groupe split for various guns and sectors under Lt’s. Marriott, Brewer and Anderton
Wednesday – 8th November 1944 Service Battery Morning Report56
Wednesday – 8th November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report57
Early November, the 244th locates another 88mm Flak gun in Western France
Thursday – 9th November 194458
With entire companies surrender in a few instances, the enemy continued to present sporadic and loosely organized resistance in XII Corps zone. Thick mine fields and flood conditions delayed XX Corps advance.
In the northern sector of XX Corps zone, Task Force Polk (3rd Cavalry Group, 689th and 241st Field Artillery Battalions, 807th Tank Destroyer Battalion and tile 135th Engineer Combat Battalion) was attached to the 83rd Infantry Division then preparing to attack in coordination with the other divisions of the corps. Southwest of the 83rd Infantry Division zone the 10th Armored Division attacked to the east, capturing Rumelange (U79).
Heavy bombers of the Eighth Air Force, 1,476 in number, delivered a saturation attack on all fortified towns east of the bridgehead area in support of XX Corps attack to capture Metz (U85). Enemy communications were out and enemy units were left, temporarily at least, as separate fighting forces. Principal targets of the heavy bombers were the towns of Metz (U85), Verny (U84), Orny (U94), Pommérieux (U84) and Saarbrücken (Q43). The bombers dropped 2,305 tons of bombs on Metz (U85) alone.
Thursday – 9th November 1944
244th F.A. Bn. acknowledged printing of coat of arms. Page 1
Thursday – 9th November 194459
Bn. Ex. Left CP at 1200 to inspect fireing batterie positions; returned at 1730.
Thursday – 9th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report60
Thursday – 9th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report61
Thursday – 9th November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report62
Cosmopolitan Magazine, May 1945 issue
“This Fort Is Ours”
All Lt. Marriott said about this article when I found it in his scrapbook was, “we did that, that was us.” I believe he was referring to the liaison aircraft and or perhaps the use of captured guns to support the infantry with artillery fire.
Fort De Kœnigsmacker and adjoining fortifications
Friday – 10th November 194463
Fighting tenaciously in XX Corps zone, the enemy sought to prevent expansion of the Corps bridgehead east of the Moselle River. In the southern portion of the corps zone the enemy continued his disorderly withdrawal but maintained a stiff defense in the vicinity of Uckange (U87) and Maizières-lès-Metz (u86).
XX Corps continued to attack aggressively with the 5th, 90th and 95th Infantry Divisions, while the 10th Armored Division moved up to join the main action. In the zone of the 83rd Infantry Division there was no particular activity other than patrolling. South of Metz (U85) the 5th Infantry Division was operating on the north of the 6th Armored Division (XII Corps). The 2nd Infantry (5th Infantry Division) was advancing rapidly to the east, south of Metz (U85). To the north of Metz (U85) the 95th Infantry Division strengthened its bridgeheads across the Moselle River and elements of the 319th Infantry crossed near Thionville (U88). Farther north the 90th Infantry Division continued driving forward.
Friday – 10th November 194464
S-3 left CP at 0900 for “B” Battery, returned at 1800.
Colonel Davis Paper65
We were assigned as direct support troops to the 5th and 95th Infantry Divisions during the encirclement of Metz. The city itself, except for scattered sniper fire, had been cleared, but the surrounding forts around Metz still held out. One by one, the forts finally surrendered.
Saturday – 11th November 194466
In the XX Corps zone the attack was continued by the 5th, 90th and 95th Infantry Divisions, with the 10th Armored Division moving up to assume major action. On the north of the corps zone the 90th Infantry Division enlarged its bridgehead across the Moselle River and captured Fort de Koenigsmacker (U98), one of the important forts in the outer ring of forts in the Metz (U85) area. The 95th Infantry Division continued its crossing of the river in the vicinity of Thionville (U88) and Uckange (U88). South of Metz (U85) the 5th Infantry Division made moderate advances to the east. The 2nd Infantry (5th Infantry Division) from positions one mile west, advanced to the vicinity of Lemud (U94) where solid contact was made with the 6th Armored Division (5th Infantry Division) advanced to the vicinity of Silly (U95).
Saturday – 11th November 194467
Battalion Commander and Exec left CP at 0830 to inspect firing batteries; returned at 1400.
Saturday – 11th November 194468
Rendezvous at Vallorey (France) Battery left for Gandrange (France) and Rusky (Russian) Guns
Sunday – 11th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report69
Sunday – 12th November 194470
Third U.S. Army’s drive to encircle Metz (U85) continued to the north and east during the period, while to the northeast armored elements drove toward the German Frontier.
The 90th Infantry Division (XX Corp) enlarged its bridgeheads across the Moselle River pushing across armored and tank destroyer units. In the 95th Infantry Division zone the 378th Infantry continued to cross the river. South of Metz (U85) the 5th Infantry Division advanced to the north and cleared Corny (U74), Pommerieuz (U84), Liehon (U94), Sanry-sur-Nied (U95), and Ancerville (Q04). Heavy resistance was offered by the enemy in the corps zone, a determined counterattack being launched in the vicinity of Kerling (U98) and crossings in the bridgehead area at Uckange (U87) being heavily shelled by artillery.
Sunday – 12th November 194471
Sunday – 12th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report72
Jarny, France vU6563
Flwg troop asgmts and attachments
Not previously reported, are made of re-
cord:
Bn asgd to 3rd Army 26 Apr 44, ltr., HQ,
ETOUSA, file AS 322 Op GC Sub: Troop
Assignment (No. 56)
Bn atchd to 202rd FA Group 26 Jun 44 per
ltr., file AG 322 GNMCC Hq, 3rd Army, Sub:
Troop Assignment (No.60)
Bn reld from atchd to 202nd FA Group and
atchd to 33rd AA Brig 19 July 44 per ltr.,
Hq, 3rd Army, file AG 322 GNMCC, Sub:
Troop Assignment (No. 65).
Bn atchd to 35th FA Brig for dy with Pro-
vost marshal 3rd Army 29 Aug 44 per ltr.,
Hq, 3rd A. file AG 322, Sub: Troop Assign-
ment (No. A-34).
Bn reld from atchd 33rd FA Brig and re-
Mained asgd 3rd Army for dy with Provost
Marshal 5 Sep 44 ltr., Hq, 3rd Army, file
AG 322 GNMCC, Sub: Troop Assignment (No.
A-38)
Bn reld of dy with Provost Marshall,
3rd Army, and atchd to XX Corps 4 Nov
44 per ltr., Hq, 3rd Army, file AG 322
GNMCC, Sub: Troop Assignment (No. A-
63)
Sunday – 12th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report73
Sunday – 12th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report74
Dear Family,
Snow again today! Boy is it ever getting rough in the ETO!! Can’t seem to be able to get enough cloths on – I’m always chilled when outside. Perhaps it’s that open air sedan I’ve been riding around in. Had a relatively quiet day today – tried out “air net” for an hour this morning – had just get my cig, candy, soap, gum ration – flew a bit – again working on our “net” came in and am O.D. tonight. We hope to get down to serious biz now that the general has started his push. Hope we don’t run out of gas this time – if we don’t – next stop Berlin – or if they give up – all the better. All of us here are feeling good – a lot of colds are floating around. I haven’t gotten mine yet, but expect it sooner or later. No letters from Peg or Dad for a long time. Hold up somewhere along the line I suppose. Love to all – will write again. – Your
Tom.
Dear Folks,
Have been moving around under unfavorable conditions so I haven’t been able to write. Our move was ok over here, stayed in our schoolhouse a couple of days then went on for a job. Nineteen of us lived in an abandoned pill box in some woods. The box was ok – except that when it rained we got 2” of water on the floor and just floated around in it. We were cut off because of flood waters and our food about ran out. I drove 75 miles to go about 20 – almost froze in the jeep. Sleet, snow & rain made it tough. I remained at Battalion C.P. then the next day Billy & I flew down to look the situation over. The bridge was in so I drove down again in the afternoon & evacuated my men, Corporal Ryan’s & Anderton’s. the whole Battalion is out again – except me. I’m working with Max – it’s by far the best job. Fly a few hours, but live in steam heated ____ and sleep in a bed..
Love to all Tom.
Monday – 13th November 194475
XX Corps troops continued to attack to the north and south of Metz (U85) with the 95th Infantry Division taking Masse Yutz (U83) and Dogeldange (U87). Armored vehicles were ferried across the Moselle River while armored reconnaissance elements joined the bridgehead forces of the 95th Infantry Division. Freching (Q09) was entered by elements of the 359th Infantry (90th Infantry Division). Just north of the 95th Infantry Division, the 90th Infantry Division enlarged its bridgeheads across the Moselle River and captured Kerling (U99), Kuntzig (U98) and Inglange (U98). In the zone south of Metz (U85) the 5th Infantry Division continued to attack north with advance elements closing to within five miles of the city. Orny (U94), Coin-Les-Cuvry (U85), Cuvry (U85), Pontoy (U94) and Pouilly (U85) were liberated and L’Aisme ( (U85) and L’Yser (U85) in the Verdun Group of forts captured.
Monday – 13th November 194476
Muzzle Burst from 155 mm How (Russian) wounded seven EM of Gun Section.
Monday – 13th November 194477
Report of Gregorini’s (Sgt. George Gregorini) crew, bad muzzle burst. Purple hearts to Gregorini, Nieminen (Cpl. Allen B. Nieminen), Coy (Pfc. Merle J. Coy), R. Loeffler (Pfc. Ron V. Loeffler), Warren (Pvt. Thomas F. Warren, Jr.), Davies (Pvt. Archie P. Davies) and Eads (Pvt. Phillips S. Eads, Jr.). Klingerman (Pfc. Delbert Clingerman) shot himself (left foot)
Monday – 13th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report78
Monday – 13th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report79
Gandrange, France vU8275
Nieminen, Allan C. 33 292 549 Cpl.
Davis, Archie P. 36 546 558 Pvt.
Warren, Thomas F. Jr. 34 339 362 Pvt.
Above 3 men slightly wounded in action
France. Dy to Hosp LD 103rd Evac Hosp.
Loeffler, Roy V. 39 039 256 Pfc.
Slightly wounded in action France. Dy to
Hosp LD 30th field Hosp
Gregorini, George 33 301 167 Sgt.
Coy, Merle J. 33 749 525 Pfc.
Eads, Philip S. Jr., 33 542 961 Pfc.
Above 3 men slightly wounded in action
France – not hospitalized
Muzzle burst from 155mm How (Russian)
Wounded seven EM of gun section
Strength: EM Present for duty 120, absent 4
Officers 4
Tuesday – 14th November 194480
On the north of XX Corps’ advance, the 95th Infantry Division captured Ouvr-St-Hubert (U97), Feves (US6), and Ft. D’Illang (U88). The 10th Armored Division began crossing the Moselle River near Thoinville (U88) and Malling (U99), aided by smoking operations. Farther south the 90th Infantry Division continued its attack to the east and on the south of corps zone the 5th Infantry Division took Mecleuves (U95) in its flanking drive on Metz (US5).
Tuesday – 14th November 194481
S-3 and Battalion Commander left CP at 0900 to inspect gun positions: returned at 1530.
Tuesday – 14th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report82
Gandrange, France vU8275
Loeffler, Ray V. (Hosp) 39 039 356 Pfc. Code M
Davis, Archie P. (Hosp) 36 546 558 Pvt. Code M
Warren, Thomas F. Jr., (Hosp) 34 339 362 Pvt. Code M
Above 3 men Hosp to lost to Hosp
CORRECTION (7 Nov 440
Gable, Americus (Conf) 34 580 597 Pvt.
Conf Bn. stockade Toul, France to dy.
Released awaiting trial for violation
61st AW.
SHOULD BE
Gable, Americus (Conf) 34 580 597 Pvt.
Conf Bn. Stockade Toul, France to dy.
Released without trial.
Strength: EM present for duty 120, absent 1
Officers 4
Caption reads – I’ll bet Adam can read what’s written on this German soldiers grave.
Marker reads – Unknown comrade. Who goes to war and falls, falls into the arms of god.
Wednesday – 15th November 194483
XX Corps continued its attacks with good progress being made, despite resistance, including many local counterattacks. South of Metz (U85) the 5th Infantry Division was moving up for an attack on the city. The 11th Infantry (5th Infantry Division) took Augny (US5) while the 10th Infantry (5th Infantry Division) took Marly (U85) and Chesny (U95). Farther north the 90th and 95th Infantry Divisions had shifted their positions so that the 90th Infantry Division held the corps north boundary. The 95th Infantry Division captured Feve (U86), Illange (U78), and St. Remy (U86). Task Force Bacon, composed of elements of the 378th and 379th Infantries (95th Infantry Division) with attached engineers, tank destroyer and reconnaissance elements, was formed for the purpose of attacking down the east bank of the Moselle River from Thoinville (U88) to aid in the capture of Metz (U85). After completing its crossings of the Moselle River the 10th Armored Division struck rapidly to the east and its Combat Command “A” secured Lemestroff (U98). On the corps north boundary tile 90th Infantry Division’s 358th Infantry took Stuckange (U98), while other elements of the division captured Distroff (U98).
Wednesday – 15th November 194484
Battalion commander left CP at 1400; returned at 1700.
Wednesday – 15th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report85
Wednesday – 15th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report86
Valleroy, France vU6969
Peterson, John F. 36 624 527 Cpl. Code 1-8
Rd to gr of Pvt par 2, SO #03, Hq this Bn
Czarniak, Edward V. 33 292 712 Pvt. Code 1-6
Robertson William O. 37 494 061 Tec/3 Code 1-6
Shockler, Floyd E. 35 294 529 Pfc. Code 1-6
Above 3 EM promoted to Cpl par 2, SO #93
Hq this Bn
Balog, Frank J. 42 015 531 Pfc. Code 1-0
Canzoneri, Joe 34 249 160 Pvt. Code 1-0
Strang William C. 39 409 638 Pfc. Code 1-0
Above 3 EM promoted to Tec/5 par3, SO
#93, Hq this Bn
Boehmer, John K. 33 361 987 Pvt. Code 1-7
Demontighy, Joseph L. 31 446 211 Pvt. Code 1-7
DeVincenzo, Anthony 42 017 232 Pvt. Code 1-7
DeWitt, Freddie R. 34 845 210 Pvt. Code 1-7
Ratliff, Donald W. 39 693 452 Pvt. Code 1-7
Terry, Lee R. 39 409 613 Pvt. Code 1-7
Above 6 EM promoted to Pfc par 3, SO #23
this Btry
Strength: 120 EM, 4 Officers
Wednesday – 15th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report87
Gandrange, France, vU8275
Nieminen, Allan (Hosp) 33 292 549 Cpl.
Hosp slightly wounded in action France
To dy
CORRECTION (11 Nov 44)
Clingerman, Delbert G. 33 292 600 Pfc.
Dy to sk in Hosp LD undetermined
9 Nov 44. fSk in Hosp LD undetermined
To lost to Hosp 10 Nov 44.
SHOULD BE
Clingerman, Delbert G. 33 292 600 Pfc.
Dy to sk in Hosp LD 9 Nov 44. Sk in
Hosp LT of lost to Hosp 10 Nov 44
Thursday – 16th November 194488
Continuing XX Corps’ advance, the 5th Infantry Division capturing the towns of Peltre (U85), Sorbey (U95), and a fort at Chesny (U95) which had held out after the fall of the town the previous day. North of Metz (U85) elements of the 95th Infantry Division captured Vigneulles (U86), Saulny (U96), Lorry-lès-Metz (U86), Plesnois (U86), and Norroy-le-Veneur (U86). In addition, several of the strong forts which protected Metz (U85) from the north and northwest were under heavy siege, with two being completely surrounded. Elements of the 90th Infantry Division on the corps north boundary took Metzervisse (U98), due east of Thionville (U88), and other elements of the division captured Buding (U98) and Reixange (U97). The 10th Armored Division, striking due east from positions of the 90th Infantry Division, cleared Monneren (U08), St. Marouerite (U88) and St. Francois-Lacroix (Q08).
Thursday – 16th November 194489
Usual organizational duties
Thursday – 16th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report90
Thursday – 16th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report91
Thursday – 16th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report92
Thursday – 16th November 1944 Service Battery Morning Report93
Thursday – 16th November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report94
Dear Folks,
Have been working hard-!! You will without a doubt read in the paper someday about the work we’ve been doing with the “Cubs” and the Dough’s. Got Pegs letter last night – all about Jane – thanks – loads. Expect Dad’s financial report soon. Haven’t gotten a letter from him for weeks & weeks. Guess he must be working as hard as we are over here. You will get $83.+ in a couple of months. I got it for being Battalion Artillery Air observer. Will receive the Air Medal as soon as I get five more missions – hard now ‘cause of poor flying weather. We are very comfortable and eating real well. I’m as sleek as a spring bear. Haven’t been with the Battery since we got to ____, in with Battalion C.P. My plans for the future are #1 to remain alive #2 – come home as soon as I can. Probably will have to go to “C B-I” first. Always wanted to see snake charmers!! Love to all
Your Son.
Air Observation Plane, Lt. Marriott returns to airfield
Caption reads – “Briey, France.” Lt. Savage, Lt. Marriott, a Captain and driver stop to look at an 8.8cm AA gun.
The difficulty encountered with captured guns was a lack of sights.
Practically no German sights or sight mounts were available, the
Germans having removed or destroyed most of them.
Ordnance instrument personnel modified spare American sight
brackets and mounts to fit the captured equipment. Spare parts
were obtained from damaged guns that littered the roadsides and
with much improvisation and ingenuity; Ordnance armament men
were able to keep the guns in constant operation. Briey France.
A little French child saluting the men as they examine the 88mm in Briey France
Friday – 17th November 194495
In the XX Corps zone the enemy delaying actions were disorganized and a large number of prisoners were taken. In the Metz (U85) area enemy resistance was sporadic, with the strongest opposition being offered along the Fort Driant (U75) – Fort Jeanne D’Arc (U75) line of forts.
XX Corps continued to advance. South of Metz (U85) the 5th Infantry Division was making good progress, with Jury (U95), Magny (U85) and Gricy, (U85) being captured. North of Metz (U85) the 95th Infantry Division captured Fort Lorraine (U76) and made local advances. The 10th Armored Division took Halstroff (Q06), the 90th Infantry Division captured Aboncourt (U97) and Luttange (U97) and patrols of the 10th Armored Division crossed the German border. As the horseshoe drew tighter around Metz (U85) and the enemy accelerated his withdrawal, heavy harassing and interdiction artillery fires were placed on all his escape routes from the city.
Friday – 17th November 194496
Usual organizational duties
Saturday – 18th November 194497
Enemy resistance weakened perceptibly in XX Corps zone and a general withdrawal along the entire corps front was indicated. Resistance continued in the forts at Metz (U85) of which eight major ones remained to be taken.
Encirclement of Metz (U85) was completed by XX Corps troops. The 5th Infantry Division on the south flank and Task Force Bacon (1st Battalion of the 377th Infantry, 2nd Battalion of the 318th Infantry, 95th Reconnaissance Troop, a platoon of Engineers, and two companies of tank destroyers with two self-propelled guns) made contact due east of the city. Firing into Metz (U85), a chemical mortar unit with the 5th Infantry Division hit an ammunition dump, the resulting explosion knocking out several pieces of enemy heavy artillery. The 5th Infantry Division captured Borny (U85) while task Force Bacon took Saint-Julien-lès-Metz (U87). Two more of the Metz forts fell to elements of the 95th Infantry Division. On the north boundary the 10th Armored Division continued to precede the 90th Infantry Division, capturing Bouzonville (Q17), Waldweistroff (Ql8), Flastroff (Q18), Schwerdorff (Q18), and Filstroff (Q18). The 90th Infantry Division meanwhile was mopping up in the rear of the 10th Armored Division advance.
Saturday – 18th November 194498
Battalion Commander and Battalion Exec left CP at 0900 to inspect gun positions; returned at 1300.
Saturday – 18th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report99
Valleroy, France vU6969
Murphy, Eduard C, (FA) 0 278 607 Capt.
Dy to sk in Hosp LD
Savage, William U. (FA) 01 168 453 1st Lt.
Assumes Command in addition to other
duties.
Kaylor, Bernard T. Jr. (FA) 01 172 948 1st Lt. Code 9
Pr principle dy Exec O (1193) to
principal dy Motor O (0600)
Shinaberry, Jacob W (FA) 01 172 654 2nd Lt. Code 9
Pr principal dy Motor O (0600) to
Principal dy Exec O (1193)
Broxton, Burke S. 34 829 285 Pvt. Code A
Pr atchd unassigd 53rd Repl Bn APO Code 531
#739 to reassgd & reid MOS 531 MCO 345
Race W per par 32 SO #163 Hq 53rd Rep
Thursday – 18th November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report100
Dear Folks,
Well – a perfect day has past. It was kind of warm and the sun was out almost the whole time.was so cold – ice everywhere all day long. Funny climate – isn’t it? Had a tiny “sniffle” – but it’s gone now. Sure hope I can avoid a cold this winter. Get a heavy sheepskin flying jacket and boots – they are the “cats”. So darn warm -! They are kind of bulky for the Cub – but I’d rather be warm than able to move around. We only flew ½ hour today -. The plane is getting a valve job now – so we won’t fly for a couple of days. Haven’t had any mail for a couple of days. No packages for two weeks. Seems ages. Saw Wink today – looks the same – sends his regards. Doc Savage is engaged to a Red X gal here in town – Strikes me as silly – to get married in France. Ho hum – life goes on. More in a few days
Love Tom.
Captain W. U. Savage
Battle For Metz, Envelopment From The South, 8 to 19 November 1944101
Sunday – 19th November 1944102
Continuing his withdrawal in XX Corps’ zone, the enemy became disorganized, with no tactical control being exercised above company level. In the Metz (U85) area street fighting was in progress, while the major forts dominating the city’s defenses remained in enemy hands although surrounded by the Army’s forces.
Elements of the 5th and 95th Infantry Divisions entered Metz (U85), the 5th Infantry Division took Vaudreville (U95) and Laulailliers (U96), while the 95th Infantry Division seized Sanry-lès-Vigy (U96). At Magny (U85) a smoke mission was fired to deny observation to the enemy at Fort Queuleu (U85) while XX Corps troops advanced. Nennig (Q19), Tettingen (Q19), Waldwisse (Ql9) and Weihingen (Q19) were taken by the 10th Armored Division while the 90th Infantry Division, following the 10th Armored Division cleared Hinckange (Q06), Brecklange (Q06) and Volmerange (Q06).
Sunday – 19th November 1944103
Usual organizational duties
Sunday – 19th November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report104
Monday – 20th November 1944105
XX Corps advanced on Merzig (Q29) was held up by road blocks covered by anti-tank fire, while at Metz (U85) disorganized resistance continued with the enemy surrendering in large numbers. Enemy forces of undetermined strength continued to hold Forts Driant (U75), St. Quentin (U85), St Privat (U85), Jeanne D’Arc (U75), Plappeville (U86), and Verdun (U85).
Metz (U85) was reported cleared by elements of the 5th and 95th Infantry Division, except for Ile-Du-Saulcy (U85) and Ile-Chambiere (U85). While the 95th Infantry Division was reducing the forts on the north of the city, elements of the 5th Infantry Division surrounded the forts on the south and east of Metz (U85) and took Fort Queuleu.
A chemical company provided a smoke screen for the 5th Infantry Division’s crossing of the Seille River in the attack on Fort Queuleu (U85) denying observation to the enemy troop within the fort.
The 90th Infantry Division and the 10th Armored Division continued to operate jointly on the XX Corps’ north flank, with only local gains to the east and northeast being made.
Monday – 20th November 1944106
S-3 left CP at 0930; returned at 1400
Dear Uncle Art,
Rain and more rain each day and now France is a sea of mud. It has snowed here a couple of days to complicate our misery. The infantry may not be the best branch of service but they sure had a hell of a life. I feel sorry for them – especially at this time of year. Dad has told you of my new job of Battalion Artillery Air Observer. It’s a good job – the strain is tough at times – but it’s more fun – you can shoot and see much more than ground OP’s. The Mdmsls are quite attractive all seems to be rather sexy. Sure wish I carried parley vous ‘em better than I can. Some guy’s have all the breaks. Guess most of the folks remember the W.W.#1 GI’s ‘cause they keep the gals locked up after 1800. They are very closely supervised while we’re around. Will drop you a line again. Love to all
Tom.
Tuesday – 21st November 1944107
XX Corps continued its attack, with the 5th and 95th Infantry Division mopping up Metz (U85). The 95th Infantry Division took Ile-Chambiere (U85) and actually sharing in its reduction were the 10th and 11th (5th Infantry Division, the 377th (-) and 378th (-) Infantry (95th Infantry Division and Task Force Bacon. During this phase the 2nd Infantry (5th Infantry Division) was due east of Metz (U85) preventing enemy forces from withdrawing, while the 379th Infantry (95th Infantry Division) was west of Metz (U85) exerting containing pressure on the forts in the vicinity. Attacks to the east and north were continued by the 10th Armored Division and the 90th Infantry Division. Major elements of both divisions crossed the German Border near Luxembourg frontier. Bouzonville (Q17) was taken by the 10th Armored Division.
Third U.S. Army estimate its ammunition requirements over a six months’ period on a round per gun per day basis as fifty for 205 mm howitzers, high explosive only; thirty-five for 155 mm howitzers, twenty-five for 155 mm guns and twenty-five for 8” howitzers.
Tuesday – 21st November 1944108
Usual organizational duties
Tuesday – 21st November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report109
Tuesday – 21st November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report110
Wednesday – 22nd November 1944111
All resistance at Metz (U85) ceased at 1435 hours on this date. With the fall of Metz (U85) to XX Corps troops after a two months’ siege, handicapped by the worst floods in twenty years and by weather which prevented maximum air support, a new route to the east was opened and the last important obstacle in front of the Siegfried Line was removed.
Relief of the 95th Infantry Division in the Metz (U85) area was started by the 5th Infantry Division, the former division moving to a concentration area in the vicinity of Colligny (U95), east of Metz (U85). To the north the 90th Infantry Division began relieving Combat Command “B” of the 10th Armored Division, while the remainder of the 10th Armored Division attacked to the northeast and captured Waldwisse (Q18) and Halstroff (Q08).
Wednesday – 22nd November 1944112
Battalion attached to 5th Infantry Division per Annex 2, Field order 13, XX Corps, dated 2400, 22 November 1944.
Wednesday – 22nd November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report113
Wednesday – 22nd November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report114
Valleroy, France vU6969
CORRECTION (3rd Nov 44)
Murphy, Edmund C. (Hosp) 0 278 607 Capt.
Sk in Hosp LD to lost to Hosp
SHOULD BE
Murphy, Ednound C. (FA) 0 278 607 Capt.
Sk in 12th Evac Hosp LD to lost to 12th
Evac Hosp “Non Battle loss” “Dy 1193-7”
CORRECTION (9 Nov 44)
Murphy, Edmund C. (FA) 0 278 607 Capt.
Reasgd & rejd from 12th Evac Hosp
SHOULD BE
Murphy, Ednound C. (FA) 0 278 607 Capt.
Reasgd & rejd from 12th Evac Hosp assumes
command (1193-7) MCO 64.266 Race W
comp NG Date of Rank 15 Dec 41
CORRECTION (13 Nov 44)
Broxton, Burke S. 34 829 285 Pvt.
Patterson Marvin L. 34 440 186 Pvt.
Above 2 EM sk in hosp LD to lost to Hosp
SHOULD BE
Broxton, Burk S. 34 829 285 Pvt.
Dy 531
Patterson, Marvin L. 34 440 186 Pvt.
Dy 504
Above 2 EM sk in 103rd Evac Hosp to lost
to 103rd Evac Hosp “Non Battle Loss”
Murphy, Edmound C. (FA) 0 278 607 Capt. Code T
Sk in 103rd Evac Hosp LD to lost to Code 1911
Evac Hosp “Non Battle loss” “Dy Code 1193
1193-7” as of 19 Nov 44
Wednesday – 22nd November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report115
Gandrange, France vU8275
CORRECTION (14 Nov 44)
Loeffler, Roy V. (Hosp) 39 039 256 Pfc.
Davis, Archie P. (Hosp) 36 546 558 Pvt.
Warren, Thomas F. Jr., (Hosp) 34 339 362 Pvt.
Above 3 men Hosp to lost to Hosp
SHOULD BE
Loeffler, Roy V. 39 039 256 Pfc.
From 30th field Hosp LD (LWA) to lost to
30th Field Hosp “Dy 531”
Davis, Archie P. 36 546 558 Pvt.
Warren Thomas F. Jr., 34 339 362 Pvt.
Above 2 men from 103rd Evac Hosp LD (LWA)
to lost to 103rd Evac Hosp “Duties 531”
CORRECTION (15 Nov 44)
Clingerman, Delbert G. 33 292 600 Pfc.
Dy to sk in Hosp LD 9 Nov 44. Sk in Hosp
LD to lost to Hosp 10 Nov 44.
SHOULD BE
Clingerman, Delbert G. 33 292 600 Pfc.
Dy to sk in 34th Evac Hosp LD 9 Nov 44.
Sk in 34th Evac Hosp Ld to lost to 34th
Evac Hosp “Non-battle loss” (Self
infliceted gun shot wound left foot
“Dy 345”
Strength: EM present for duty 121
Officers 4
Wednesday – 22nd November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report116
Valleroy, France vU6969
CORRECTION (1 Nov 44)
Weir, Joseph H. (Hosp) 6 978 435 Pvt.
Sk in Hosp LD to lost to Hosp
SHOULD BE
Weir Joseph H. 6 978 435 Pvt.
Sk in 12th Evac Hosp LD to lost to 12th
Evac Hosp “Non-battle loss” “Dy 654”
CORRECTION (20 Nov 44)
Miller, Buster L. 39 123 597 Cpl.
Sk Hosp LD to lost to Hosp
SHOULD BE
Miller, Buster L. 39 123 597 Cpl.
Sk in 103rd Evac Hosp LD to lost to 103rd
Evac Hosp “Non-battle loss” “Dy 603”
Wednesday – 22nd November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report117
Jarny, France vU6563
CORRECTION (3 Nov 44)
Johnson, Virgil L. (Hosp ) 39 124 406 Tec/5
Sk in hosp LD to lost to hosp
SHOULD BE
Johnson, Virgil L. 39 124 406 Tec/5 Code 2
Sk in 12th Evac Hosp LD to lost to
12 Evac Hosp “Non-battle loss”
“Dy 861”
CORRECTION (8 Nov 44)
Johnson, Virgil L. 39 124 406 Tec/55
Reassigned and rejoined from 12th
Evacuation Hosp
SHOULD BE
Johnson, Virgil L. 39 124 406 Tec/5 Code 9
From atchd unasgd 53rd Replacement Bn
APO # 739 U.S. Army to reasgd and
rejoined MOS 861 MCO 186 Race W.
1st Sgt. Cormier early Christmas and New Years wishes postcard
Dear Rachal
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Forever Thinking
of you
Yours
Ray
1st Sgt. Cormier early Christmas Card
Dear Folks,
No mail for several days – guess the Xmas rush is too much for Uncle Sam. Jane’s last letter written on the 9th of November said that the perfume hadn’t arrived you’ve never said it was sent – was it? You haven’t said whether the two boxes of perfume had come – describe the ones you have gotten. I can’t replace it, but I can raise a stink at this end. We have been sitting around and doing very little, the Battery have been shooting a bit, but the air section is grounded because of bad weather. It rained today so we sat around. Jim came in – looks ok, says “hi!” The bandanas, mirror and Pepsodent came 3½ weeks ago – think I told you but I want to make sure. Have you heard from Jane recently? Will drop a line in a while – Love to all
Tom.
Thursday – 23rd November 1944118
The 5th Infantry Division completed relief of the 95th Infantry Division with elements of the latter division moving to an assembly area in the vicinity of Colligny (U95), east of Metz (U85), from which point it relieved elements of the 90th Infantry Division in the Nied River vicinity. Meanwhile the 5th Infantry Division continued to exert pressure on a stubbornly resisting enemy in the remaining Metz (U85) forts, using smoke to screen passage of troops across the Moselle River. In the northern part of XX Corps zone the 90th Infantry Division continued to relieve the 10th Armored Division in the task of mopping up in rear areas, freeing the latter division for front line combat.
Thursday – 23rd November 1944119
Usual organizational duties
Thursday – 23rd November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report120
Friday – 24th November 1944121
The 5th Infantry Division continued to contain the remaining forts of Metz (U85). Realignment of various divisions of XX Corps being completed, the 90th and 95th Infantry Divisions both launched heavy attacks early in the morning. Excellent progress was made by the 95th Infantry Division in a zone along the Nied River northeast of Metz (U85), capturing Brecklange (Q06), Boulay Moselle (Q06), Halling (Q16) and Narbéfontaine (Q16). Fighting along the German border near the Luxembourg frontier, the 90th Infantry Division captured Biringen (Q19), Neunkirchen-lès-Bouzonville (Q18) and Remeldorff (Q18). Meeting heavy resistance inside Germany, the 10th Armored Division continued its attack and captured Tettingen (L00), Butzdorf (L00) and Oberleuken (L00).
Friday – 24th November 1944122
The Battalion departed Jarny France. Took over German, Russian etc. guns
Friday – 24th November 1944123
Battalion departed Jarny, France, 0800 via motor convoy. Arrived Metz, France, vU8456 at 1115. Distance marched: 22 miles. Weather: Cloudy and rainy. Morale: Excellent. CP established at 1130. Battalion attached to 19th FA Battalion in support of 5th Infantry Division containing enemy in Forts surrounding Metz. Communication with firing batteries established at 1500.
Friday – 24th November 1944124
The Battalion arrived Metz France.
Friday – 24th November 1944125
On 24 November 1944 the Battalion was brought together to fire foreign weapons as the battalion in support of the 5th Infantry Division at Metz, France in the latter’s mission to contain the enemy within and around Metz forts which still resist.
Friday – 24th November 1944126
Left Gandrange (France) arrived Metz (France) 5 forts still
Friday – 24th November 1944 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report127
Friday – 24th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report128
Friday – 24th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report129
Friday – 24th November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report130
Friday – 24th November 1944 Service Battery Morning Report131
Friday – 24th November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report132
Saturday – 25th November 1944133
Continued pressure on the remaining Metz (U85) forts was made by the 5th Infantry Division. The heavily defended Fort Verdun, as well as St. Blaise, Marival and St. Sommy were surrounded. On the XX Corps south flank, the 95th Infantry Division attacked and occupied Boulay (Q06), Mokerstroff (Q16), Narbefontaine (Q16) and Ricrange (Q16), making solid contact with 80th Infantry Division (XII Corps). To the north the 90th Infantry Division continued driving to the east, capturing Oberesch, (Q18) and Schwerdorff (Q18), while the 10th Armored Division, fighting across the German border, captured Bethingen, Germany (Q19).
Saturday – 25th November 1944134
Battery “C” registered on Ft. Driant at 1500. Battery “A” registered on Ft. Jeanne d’Arc at 1545. Two harassing missions on Fort Driant and Jeanne d’Arc fired after registration. Ammo expended 173 rounds. Battery “B” attached to 55th Combat Engineers Battalion on special mission.
Saturday – 25th November 1944135
On 25 November 1944, Battery “B” was attached to the 55th Combat Engineer Battalion, XX Corps, with the special mission of operating “alligators” in the Saar River crossing operations of the XX corps in the vicinity of the Saarlautern, France.
“B” Battery in the streets of Sierck-les-Bains training with an LVT
Saturday – 25th November 1944 Battery “A” Morning Report136
Metz, France vU8456
Benevich, John 33 292 667 Pfc. Code 1-8
Rd to gr of Pvt. SO #26 this Btry
Sunday – 26th November 1944137
In the XX Corps Zone the 5th Infantry Division continued to contain the forts around Metz (U85). Pushing forward, the 95th Infantry Division attacked and cleared Roupeldange (Q06), Niedervisse (Q16), Ottonville) (Q16), Couhe (Q16), Denting (Q16), Teterchen (Q17), Velving (Q17), Ricrange (Q16) and Almunster (Q17). The 90th Infantry Division moved eastward and took Otzwiller (Q17), just across the border in Germany. Elements of the 10th Armored Division cleared part of the woods Forte De Saarburg (L10) while Betringen (Q19) was captured by Combat Command “B”.
Sunday – 26th November 1944138
Battery “C” registered on Ft. Jeanne d’Arc at 1540. Battery “A” registered on Ft. Jeanne d’Arc at 1630. Battery “A” fired harassing missions on Ft. Jeanne d’Arc, expending 111 rounds of ammo; Battery “C” expended 363 rounds ammo. Battery “D” (Headquarters Battery) in position with 4 -8.8 Pak 43 guns to fire on forts when ammo is located.
Sunday – 26th November 1944139
Battery “B” departed this station at 1445 via motor convoy. Arrived present station (Sierck-les-Bains); attached to 55th Engineer Combat Battalion continues its mission to support 19th FA Battalion in its mission to support 5th Infantry Division in containing enemy still resisting in Forts.
Sunday – 26th November 1944140
Battery “B” 244th Field Artillery Battalion attached 1645A for training as operators of LVT (As). No other change.
Sunday – 26th November 1944141
Torres (Capt. Victor M. Torres) volunteers leave Metz for Sierck (Sierck-les-Bains, France) and Alligators, trained on Moselle River
Sunday – 26th November 1944 Battery “B” Morning Report142
Sunday – 26th November 1944 Battery “C” Morning Report143
Metz, France vU8456
CORRECTION (25 Nov 44)
NO CHANGE
SHOULD BE
Burnette, Joseph M. 33 224 012 Pvt.
Johnson, Marion Q. 35 625 728 Pvt.
Rose, Marion W. 20 367 383 Pvt.
Teems, Ardrel F. 34 248 818 Pvt.
Above 4 EM dy to conf 203rd MP Det 12th
A Gp: tried and convicted of violation of
AW 93 by Gen CM
Sunday – 26th November 1944 MD Detachment Morning Report144
Metz, France vU8456
CORRECTION (25 Nov 44)
No Change
SHOULD BE
Burnette, Joseph M. 33 224 012 Pvt.
Johnson, Marion Q. 20 367 383 Pvt.
Teems, Ardrel F. 34 248 818 Pvt.
Above 4 EM dy to conf 203rd MP Dep 12th A
Gp; tried and convicted of violation of
AW 93 by Gen CM