Thursday – 1st March 19451
XII Corps, consisting of the 2nd Cavalry Group, 76th Infantry Division (with attached )18th Infantry of the 80th Infantry Division), 5th Infantry Division, 4th Armored Division and 80th Infantry Division (-), held the line, in that order, reading from south to north. In the southern part of corps zone, the 76th Infantry Division (with 318th Infantry and 2nd Cavalry Group attached) advanced toward Trier (L22) with its 385th Infantry clearing the pocket in the Sauer River bend east of Echternach (L03) capturing Edingen (L13) and advancing two miles, while the 4l7th Infantry advanced two miles south through Butzweiler (L13) to a vicinity three and one-half miles north of Trier (L22). While the 304th Infantry was pinched out by converging elements of the 385th and 4l7th Infantry Regiments, the attached 2nd Cavalry Group cleared Rosport (L13) and Steinheim (L03). The attached 318th infantry (80th Infantry Division) cleared Newel (L13) and advanced to high ground northeast of Aach (L13). Farther north, the 5th Infantry Division maintained positions along the west bank of the Kyll River, mopping up west of the river. Advancing north about one mile between the Nims and Kyll Rivers, the 4th Armored Division cleared Malbergweich (L16) and Sefferweich (L16) in an area five miles north of Bitburg (L15) and secured high ground near Seffern (L16). Ten battalions of artillery fired a ten-minute preparation for the attack on Sefferweich (L16). On the corps north flank, the 317th Infantry (80th Infantry Division) advanced north one and one-half miles between the Nims and Purn Rivers, clearing Schlied (L16), Heilenbach (L06) and Oberweiler (L16).
Thursday – 1st March 19452
Thursday – 1st March 19453
At the beginning of the period the battalion was attached to the 410th Field Artillery Group, which was acting as XII Corps Artillery Fire Direction Center “B”, in general support of the XII Corps front. It was in position in the vicinity of Baustert, (wL0353), having crossed the Our and Saur Rivers on the 19-20 February, and the river Prum and Kyll somewhat later.
Thursday – 1st March 19454
0500 – Batteries “A” and “C” march ordered preparatory to moving forward to new positions.
0800 – Batteries “A” and “C” displaced to new positions at – Battery “A” (wL09185708);
Battery “C” (wL08385690)
0900 – Forward Air Strip opened at (wL078557).
1000 – Temporary CP and FDC opened at Rittersdorf and Batteries “A” and “C” registered
by Air OP.
1300 – Forward CP and FDC close in new position at (wL10085585). Visibility too poor
to register.
1600 – Rear FDC joined Forward FDC at Hermensdorf.
1700 – Rear Echelon (Service Battery and Personnel Section) closed in new position
at Oberweis.
0001 – 2400 – Three TOT missions fired: one on an enemy counter-attack; the other
two on enemy troops in town.
Tec 5 Charles C. Collinsworth
Thursday – 1st March 19455
March 1st to March 4th, Hisel Germany, Baustert Germany, Mülbach Germany, Oberweis Germany, Hermesdorf Germany
Thursday – 1st March 19456
The Battalion departed Baustert Germany.
Thursday – 1st March 19457
The Battalion arrived Hermesdorf Germany.
Rittersdorf Germany, 4th Armored all around us
Thursday – 1st March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report9
Hermesdorf, Germany wL0756
Boylan, Edward T. 32 874 703 Pfc.
Dy to temporary dy 17th Reinforcement
Command Depot for return for further temp-
orary dy Reception Station #2, Fort Dix, N.
J., USA, for 30 days rest and recuperation,
Par 1, SO #32, Hq. XII Corps. Departed.
Departed Baustert, Germany wL0353 1430
Via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta
1530. Distance marched approximately 6
Miles.
No limited assignment personnel.
Thursday – 1st March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report10
Thursday – 1st March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report11
Rittersdorf, Germany wL1156
Carlson, Lloyd O. 39 039 255 Pvt. Code 11-7
Grant, Robert N. 33 542 975 Pvt. Code 11-7
Guba, Joseph 42 017 921 Pvt. Code 11-7
Smith, Randolph W. 37 547 313 Pvt. Code 11-7
Zook, Delbert E. 35 350 620 Pvt. Code 11-7
Above 5 EM promoted to Pfc per par
1, SO #8 this Btry.
Departed Baustert, Germany 1315, Via
Motor Convoy. Arr present sta 1415
Distance marched approximately 7 miles.
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Thursday – 1st March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report12
Hermesdorf Germany wL0756
Departed Baustert Germany via motor convoy
0800 hr arr present Sta 1030 distance
marched approximately 8 mi.
One EM Limited Assignment personnel
Thursday – 1st March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report13
Thursday – 1st March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report14
Hermesdorf, Germany wL0756
Departed Baustert, Germany wL0353 0930
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta
1030 Distance marched approximately 6
miles.
Interview with Robert Bishop15
During our months of combat, there were many instances of disregard for personal safety and self-sacrifice, and after I got home and got a copy of Tom Brokaw’s Greatest Generation and started reading some of the stories from the other veterans, I realized that the action of Corporal Dormo (Cpl. Dormo Cosmo, Battery B) running from his foxhole when our gun was being fired upon and taking the panoramic sight from the gun and run back into the hole, and for Private Edwards’ disregard for his own life picked up this 95-pound shell with a damaged fuse which could have gone off at any time, as far as we were concerned, and to dispose of it in a gully or in a hole down over the hill, should have been recognized. I did compose letters of their actions and I took them to Senator Bob Smith in Manchester, and it was turned over to the Veterans Department and our son Art tried to locate Corporal Dormo and Edwards, and he did get a hold of Dormo and he was in Pennsylvania, and I called him and I made mention of the fact that what I was doing and asked him if he remembered jumping from the foxhole to get the panoramic sight, and he said, yeah, he said, but I would never do it again. And we talked for quite a while and it was nice to hear his voice. And later, I sent him a copy of the letter that I had sent to Senator Smith, and his wife called back and informed me that Cosmo had passed away. I was pretty upset. And we could not locate Private Edwards, and I deeply regret not having — that not been sooner of these two heroes. They were heroes as far as I’m concerned.
Friday – 2nd March 194516
In the southern part of XII Corps zone the 2nd Cavalry Croup (attached to the 76th Infantry Division) crossed the Sauer River, gaining four miles in a zone north of the Moselle River and capturing Grewenich (L12) and Herresthalerhof (L12). In the 76th Infantry Division the 385th Infantry advanced south four miles to an area one mile north of the Moselle River, clearing Trierweiler (L12), Sirzenich (L13), Neuhas (L13), Niederweiler (L12) and Fusenich (L12). The attached 318th Infantry (80th Infantry Division) and the 417th Infantry each advanced one and one-half miles to a line two miles north of Trier (L22) making contact with the 10th Armored Division (XX Corps), while Besslich (L13) was cleared by the 318th Infantry. Attacking under cover of darkness against scattered small arms and mortar fire, the 5th Infantry Division crossed the Ayll River with two companies of its 11th Infantry and one battalion of the 10th Infantry. Huttingen (L15) was taken by the 10th Infantry while the 11th Infantry cleared Metterich (L15). Farther north, the 4th Armored Division captured Seffern (L16) in a one and one-half mile advance to the north. Making local advances, the 80th Infantry Division captured Heilenbach (L06) and made contact with the 6th Cavalry Group (VIII Corps)
Friday – 2nd March 194517
The Battalion displaced by echelon to positions in vicinity of Hermesdorf, Germany (wL079560) with no chance in assignment or mission.
Friday – 2nd March 194518
0700 – XII Corps Survey Control received from 410th Field Artillery Group.
0930 – Lt. Col. Davis returned to Battalion CP form London and resumed command of
Battalion.
1300 – Ground OP established at (wL13955664).
1400 – Battalion Commander and Battalion Executive returned to Battalion CP.
1645 – XII Corps Survey Control received from 410th Field Artillery Group dated 1 March
1945 – Transmitted to Assistant S-2.
0001 – 2400 – “A” and “B” Batteries registered, and “C” Battery checked on same point – all
by AOP. 15-minute preparation for attack of XII Corps fired – total of
72 rounds ammunition expended on six targets. Two TOT’s fired on enemy
batteries – 2 Battalion Volleys on each.
Friday – 2nd March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report19
Hermesdorf, Germany wL0756
Davis, John J. (FA) 018 530 Lt. Col.
Temporary dy Uk approximately 3 days to dy
No limited assignment personnel
Friday – 2nd March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report20
Wiersdorf Germany wL0857
Btry Hq departed Hermesdorf Germany via
Motor convoy 1530 hrs arr present Sta 1600
Hrs distance marched approximately 2 mi.
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Caption reads – Here are some good Germans. Good Krauts are always 6 feet underground. They have black and gray crosses for their dead. We have white
Saturday – 3rd March 194521
In XII Corps zone the 2nd Cavalry Group captured Mesenich (L12), Langsur (L12), Igel (12) and Zewen – Oberkirch (L12). It was released from operational control of the 76th Infantry Division by the end of the period. Crossing the Kyll River, the 304th Infantry (76th Infantry Division) secured a bridgehead ten miles north of Trier (L22), clearing Hosten (L14) and Orenhoffen (L24). Euren (L12) was captured by the 358th Infantry, which cleared the remainder of zone to the Moselle River while the 417th Infantry closed up to the Kyll and Moselle Rivers in zone. Farther north, the 10th Infantry (5th Infantry Division) cleared Gondorf (L15) and repulsed an enemy counterattack in its bridgehead, while the 11th Infantry cleared Metterich (L15) and the woods northeast of the town. The joint bridgehead of these two regiments was expanded during the period to a depth of two miles and a width of three miles. The 2nd Infantry (5th Infantry Division) maintained its position on the west bank of the Kyll River. Preparing to attack, the 4th Armored Division assembled in the vicinity of Bitburg (L15). In the northern part of zone the 80th Infantry Division expanded its front by taking over the zone held by the 4th Armored Division, and making a one-half mile advance east of Seffern (L16).
Saturday – 3rd March 194522
0930 – Battalion Commander left for 410th F.A. Group.
1030 – Battalion Exec an S-3 left to inspect firing batteries.
1120 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1130 – Battalion Exec an S-3 returned to Battalion C.P.
1400 – Battalion Commander left for Battalion Air Strip.
1445 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1450 – Battalion Commander and Battalion S-2 left for reconnaissance 1645, XII Corps
Survey control received from 410th F.A. Group.
1700 – Battalion Commander an S-2 returned to Battalion C.P.
0001 – 2400 – Registered Batteries “A” and “B” with Charge Normal by Air OP – visibility
too poor to permit registration with super. Seven TOT’s fired and two
“When Ready” missions – three on enemy troops in town – the remainder
on hostile batteries.
Saturday – 3rd March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report23
Hermesdorf, Germany wL0756
Derych, William J. 32 160 249 Tec. 4
Reduced to gr of Pvt par 2, SO #15, Bn
244th FA Bn.
Phillips, Cscar E. 34 339 433 Tec. 5
Promoted to Tec 4 par 3, S #15, Hq. 244th
FA Bn
No limited assignment personnel
Saturday – 3rd March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report24
Saturday – 3rd March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report25
Rittersdorf, Germany wL1156
Bingley, Edward H. 33 224 009 Pfc. Code 11-6
Chandler, Dudley J. 34 359 951 Pfc. Code 11-6
Grantham, William L. 34 249 063 Pfc. Code 11-6
Above 3 EM promoted to Cpl fro
Pfc per par 3, SO #15 Hq. 244th FA Bn.
Wojtowicz, Chester F. 37 324 577 Pfc. Code 11-0
Promoted to Tec 5 from PFC per par
3, SO #15 Hq. 244th FA Bn.
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 3rd March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report26
Saturday – 3rd March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report27
Saturday – 3rd March 1945
Dear Folks,
Had a real nice letter from Jimmy McClevey tonight. His mail goes to “SHEAF G-4” APO 757 c/o PM NY, NY. Perhaps you could drop him a line. He’s in Germany somewhere – I’ve asked him to give me a hint as to his location. We may be able to get together, who know.
I received a letter both from you and Peg. Sure nice to hear again. I was in Lux. on the 3rd of Jan! not France. I sure am glad you like the vase and inkwell. I wasn’t sure you would – it’s an awful color isn’t it. I’ve sent Jan two water colors and she hasn’t gotten either of them. I sure wish I knew what the trouble was.
This is the funniest weather. One minute its bright and sunny the next – snowing like the devil – one minute later the sun is out. Gosh – you never know what to wear. I am feeling really fine – no cold and no complaints. Not like me – is it. Very little bus goes on around here. We are just sitting around waiting for the word “go”.
The 3rd Army is going to town again – as usual. It’s the best one here. we are all quite proud to be in it. We got our second Battle Star for our ETO ribbon. It’s one the invasion troops got – we for some reason fall into that class. We are due one more – the one for Northern France. Then we will have 3 – as many as anyone can get. I ought to have an oak Leaf Cluster for my Air Medal. It hasn’t come in yet, but maybe sometime soon. that isn’t the surprise either. Wait!! You’ll see!! I’m kind of running out of dope – so I’ll close.
Love to you all,
Your Son,
Tom
Sunday – 4th March 194528
In XII Corps the 2nd Cavalry Group assembled in reserve in the south of the corps zone. Gaining three miles from its Kyll River bridgehead, the 304th Infantry (76th Infantry Division) captured Speicher (L24), Preist (L24) and Orenhoffen (L24), while the 395th Infantry patrolled aggressively. Just to the north, the 10th and 11th Infantry Regiments (5th Infantry Division) expanded their Kyll River bridgehead, capturing Philippsheim (L25), Badem (L15) , Erdorf (L15), Dudeldorf (L25), Erdorf (L25) and Pickliessem (L25), while the 2nd Infantry patrolled west of the Kyll River. Under cover of darkness, the 4th Armored Division attacked through the bridgehead positions of the 5th Infantry Division, rapidly passed through Gindorf (L25) and Steinborn (L26), and continued to the northeast in a drive that was destined to carry to the banks of the Rhine River within three days. After a one and one-half mile advance to the north, the 318th Infantry (80th Infantry Division) made contact with the 6th Cavalry Group (VIII Corps) near Balesfeld (L16) and assumed positions on the high ground west of the Kyll River. The 317th Infantry patrolled in zone, the 319th Infantry being in reserve.
Sunday – 4th March 194529
XII Corps. 76th Division. Advanced south to the Moselle River vicinity L1523 and eliminated all remaining organized resistance in the pocket southwest of Trier L2129. Other units advanced against light and disorganized resistance and swept the division zone to the junction of the Moselle and Kyll River L2534. Then attacked and established a bridgehead across the Kyll River. Units advanced two miles east on a three-mile front against scattered resistance. The 2nd Cavalry Group was relieved from attachment to the 76th Division. Front line change: Kyle River L2534 north to L2043 – L2245 – L2045. 5th Division. Expanded the bridgehead over the Kyll River against small Arms and sporadic mortar fire. Captured Gondorf L1952 and repulsed a counterattack supported by tanks against that town. The 10th Infantry commenced crossing into the bridgehead area. A bailey bridge was completed over the Kyll River in the vicinity of L1653. Front line change: L1952 – L2055 – L1855 – L1856. 4th Armored Division. Closed in an assembly area in the vicinity of L1354. 80th Division. Relieved the 4th Armored Division and assumed responsibility for the division sector. Front line Change: L1563 – L1364.
This truck load of 155mm propellent is being improperly parked
Sunday – 4th March 194530
0945 – Battalion Commander presented Purple Heart to TEC/5 Leslie Dean, PFC Edward A.
Aeppli, PFC E. Dockery.
1050 – Battalion Commander left for OP and 410th F.A. Group. Headquarters.
1305 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
0001 – 2400 – High-Burst Registration completed – visibility too poor to complete attempted
CI at same point immediately after. Fire six TOT’s – five on hostile batteries
an one on enemy troops in town. Fired H & I mission’s four rounds per hour
on Oberkail beginning at 2100.
Anderson (Pvt. Ernst R. Anderson) shot by Heath (Pvt. Charles L. Heath) German pistol had to be put away
Sunday – 4th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report32
Rittersdorf, Germany wL1156
Grantham, William L. 34 249 063 Cpl. Code 11-6
MOS changed to 645
Graff, William S. 33 707 438 Pfc.
Dy to sk in 305th Clearing Co LS
Sobisek, Arthur E. 32 828 600 Pfc.
Dy to sk in qrs LD
Anderson, Ernest R. 36 990 851 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 46th Clearing Co LD
undetermined.
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Sunday – 4th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report33
Sunday – 4th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report34
Monday – 5th March 194535
Attacking to enlarge its Kyll River bridgehead, the 76th Infantry Division (with 2nd Cavalry Group attached) gained one-half mile both to the west and north. Motorized to follow the 4th Armored Division through the Kyll River bridgehead previously secured by the 10th and 11th Infantry regiments (5th Infantry Division), the 2nd Infantry (5th Infantry Division) gained two miles before the end of the period. The 10th and 11th Infantry Regiments protected the bridgehead on the north and south, with Orsefeld (L25) being captured. The attack of the 4th Armored Division continued toward the Rhine River, with Combat Command “B” disrupting the enemy before it and gaining 15 miles. Combat Command “A” started on another route to the south, but bad roads and demolished bridges forced it to move north to follow Combat Command “B”. No organized enemy resistance was met by the 4th Armored Division after the breakthrough. During this rapid advance, Combat Command “B” captured Seinsfeld (L26), Steinborn (L26), Meisburg (L26), Kyllburgweiler (L26), Oberstadtfeld (L27), Salm (L27) and Wallenborn (L27).
Monday – 5th March 194536
0730 – XII corps Survey Control received from 410th Field Artillery Group.
8050 – Battalion Commander left for Battalion Air Strip.
0905 – Battalion Exec left to inspect firing battery positions.
1145 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1145 – Battalion Exec returned to Battalion C.P.
1310 – Battalion Commander left for Battalion Air Strip to make flight to check on traffic
conditions on roads leading to front.
1500 – XII Corps Survey control received from 410th Field Artillery Group.
1600 – Battalion commander returned to Battalion C.P.
0001 – 2400 – Fired H & I missions of four rounds per hour on Oberkail from 2400 to 0500.
Seven TIOT’s fired on enemy troops and activity in support of 4th Armor
Division. Fire three other concentrations – two on nebelwerfors and one on
enemy activity in woods. Air OP adjusted two.
Monday – 5th March 194537
Lived at Rittersdorf Germany from March 1st to March 5th. Arrived Matzen Germany
Rankin (Tec/4 Link C. Rankin) back
Monday – 5th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report39
Wiersdorf, Germany wL0957
Decapite, Benjamin D. 33 292 512 Sgt. MOS 539 Code A3
MCO 125 Race W
McPherson, James D. 33 301 171 Tec. 4 MOS 174 Code A3
590 Race W
Dixon, Claude 42 029 260 Pvt. MOS 531 Code A3
MCO 010 Race W
Above 3 EM reasgd & rejd from atchd unasgd
from Hq 48th Reinforcement Bn per par 2,
SO #16, Hq this Bn
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Monday – 5th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report40
Rittersdorf, Germany wL1156
Pugh, Robert F. 35 462 291 Tec. 4 Code K1
Trfd in gr to Det 93, GFRC per par
34, SO #50 Hq. 17th Reinf. Depot
Departed 4 March 45.
Rankin, Link C. 34 248 768 Tec 4 Code A3
Reasgd & rejd from atchd unasgd
GFRC, DEt 93. 225th Reinf Co per
par 34, SO #50 Hq. 17th Reinf. Depot
MCO 035 Race W.
Graff, William S. 33 707 438 Pfc. Code J4A
Sk in 305th Clearing Co LD to lost
To Hosp unknown. (Diseased) “Non-
Battle Loss” Dy 531
Nelson, Nils A. 33 292 634 Pfc. Code A3
Prasgd & rejd from atchd unasgd 48th
Reinf Bn per par 58, SO #6 Hq 48th
Reinf Bn MCO 590 Race W.
Anderson, Ernest R. 36 990 851 Pvt. Code J4A
Sk in 46th Clearing Co LD underter-
mined to lost to Hosp unknown.
(Pistol shot in hip) “Non-Battle
Loss” Dy 531
Dear Family,
Just a short note before the mail goes out. It’s 1515 and sort of nasty out. It has been raining, snowing, blowing etc. for five days. Feb was real nice, I guess March is going to be kind of rough on us, but more so on Jerry cause he’s in full retreated almost everywhere. In our last three or four positions we haven’t heard a single round of incoming mail – this is unusual because once in a while “he” gets mad and shoots back. Being horse drawn, they have lost a great deal of horses – everywhere you can see them. The Air Caps get the horses then chews up the Jerry cause he can’t move. We are all ok – will write again soon.
Love
Tom
Caption reads – March 1945, Somewhere In Germany, a 75 Ton German Royal or King Tiger Tank knocked out by the 4th Armored Division in its 60 mile plunge to the Rhine River
Tuesday – 6th March 194541
In the XII Corps zone the 76th Infantry Division, with the 2nd Cavalry Group attached, pushed three miles east from its Kyll River bridgehead, while the 385th Infantry (reinforced) passed through the 304th Infantry, clearing Herforst (L25) and Binsfeld (L25). To the north the 2nd Infantry (5th Infantry Division), which had been motorized the preceding day, gained seven miles in the wake of the 4th Armored Division. Oberkail (L26) was cleared by the 2nd Infantry and Spangdahelm(L25), Spang (L25) and Dahlem (L25) were taken by the 10th Infantry in an attack to the northeast. Gaining seventeen miles, Combat Command “B” (4th Armored Division) neared Mayn (L69) in its push to the Rhine River, while Combat Command “A”, seventeen miles to the rear of Combat Command “B”, began pushing forward rapidly. The 80th Infantry Division maintained its positions on the corps north flank with no change in positions.
Tuesday – 6th March 194542
In rapid succession we passed through the outer Siegfried Line to Baustert and Hermesdorf and on March 6th we crossed the Kyll River through Bitburg to Orsfeld.
Tuesday – 6th March 194543
1200 – Battalion alerted for movement to new position area at Matzen, Germany.
1400 – Fire direction Center and C.P. closed in new position at Matzen.
1430 – Wire communications established with firing batteries. Coordinates of new
installations as follows. CP (wL146553); Air Strip (wL078557); “A” Battery
(wL15485588); Battery “B” (wL15525529) and Battery “C” (wL15155697).
0001 – 2400 – Registered Battery “A” and “C” on same check Point. Eight TOT’s fired on
enemy troops and tanks. Two other concentrations fired – one on
nebelwerfers and one on enemy battery.
Tuesday – 6th March 194544
The Battalion departed Hermesdorf Germany.
Tuesday – 6th March 194545
The Battalion arrived Matzen Germany.
Tuesday – 6th March 194546
Matzen (Germany) 4th Armored rolling
Cologne Germany and The Cologne Tank Duel.
Cologne, Germany’s fourth largest city guarding the easterly approach to the Rhine River and was assaulted by US 3rd Armored Division, 32nd Armored Regiment with M4 Sherman tanks a new Pershing T26E3 tank. The T26E3 Parsing, a 46 ton tank with a crew of 5, 100mm (3.94 in) of frontal armor was armed with a 90mm (3.54 in) gun capable of killing Tigers and Panthers.
This German Panthers in the photo is with the Panzer-Brigade 106th Feldhernhalle and witnessed first hand the first use of the new Pershing tank. This Panther killed two of 3rd Armored Division’s Sherman tanks and three of their crew before the Pershing killed it. The Pershing fired three rounds hitting it all three times and killing two of its crew.
The Panther in the photo is in front of the Cologne Cathedral, one of only a few buildings still standing at the time.
Sign reads –
Sight Seers
Keep Out !
Beyond this point you
Draw fire on our
Fighting Men
He gives His Life
24 Hours A Day
Do You??
Tuesday – 6th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report48
Matzen, Germany wL1455
Garland, Max L. (FA) 01 165292 1st Lt. MOS 1981 Code A3
Asgd and jd from atchd unasgd GFRC Det 48
Par 15, SO #61, Hq, 48th Reinf Bn. Comp
AUS. Date of Rank 3 Oct 42, Race White.
Philpott. Claude H. 36 409 485 Tec. 4
Dy to Sk in 5th Collecting Sta LD
Departed Hermesdorf, Germany wL0756 via
Motor Convoy 1400. Arrived present Sta
1445. Distance marched approximately 6
miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Tuesday – 6th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report49
Tuesday – 6th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report50
Matzen, Germany wL1455
Sabisek, Arthur E. 32 828 600 Pfc.
Sk in grs LD to dy
Departed Rittersdorf, Germany 1330
Via Motor Convoy. Arr present sta
1420. Distance marched approximately
5 Miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Tuesday – 6th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report51
Matzen Germany wL1455
Kearse, Rovert L. Jr., 34 649 881 Pfc. MOS 405 Code A3
From atchd unasgd 48th Reinforcement Bn
To asgd & jd per par 32, SO #64 Hq 48th
Reinforcement Bn MCO 228 Race W
Departed Wiersdorf Germany via motor
Convoy 1330 arr present Sta 1430 distance
Marched approximately 6 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Tuesday – 6th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report52
Matzen, Germany wL1455
Departed Hermesdorf, Germany wL0756 via
Motor Convoy 1400. Arrived present Sta.
1445. Distance marched approximately 6
miles.
Tuesday – 6th March 1945
Regarding the death of 1st Lt. Lyons
Wednesday – 7th March 194553
The 76th Infantry Division (less 417th Infantry, plus 2nd Cavalry Group) continued to advance. While advancing three miles, the 2nd Cavalry Group screened the XII Corps south flank and cleared Rodt (L24), Schleidweiler (L24) and Zemmer (L24). Meanwhile, the 304th and 395th infantry Regiments (76th Infantry Division) made a joint advance of five miles, capturing Arenrath (L25), Eisenghmitt (L26) and Beilingen (L25). Securing positions northwest of Koblenz (L79), the 4th Armored Division continued to advance unchecked as Combat Command “B” by-passed Mayen (L69) while Combat Command “A” closed the gap separating the two combat commands. In the 5th Infantry Division, the 11th Infantry gained several miles late in the period, following the advance of the 4th Armored Division, while the 2nd and 10th Infantry Regiments each gained one mile with the 2nd Infantry capturing Gransdorf (L25) and Schwarzenborn (L26). On the corps north flank, the 80th Infantry Division made gains of one mile.
Wednesday – 7th March 194554
0745 – XII Corps Survey Control received from 410th F.A. Group.
0900 – Battery Commander’s Meeting held at Battalion C.P.
1000 – Battalion Commander, S-2 and Battery Commanders left on reconnaissance for new
positions vicinity of Gransdorf.
1000 – Battery “A” given Close Station, March Order preparatory to moving later.
1500 – Close Station, March Order given to remainder of Battalion preparatory to moving
when road conditions permit.
1600 – Battalion commander to Battalion C.P. returned from reconnaissance and from
visiting 410th Field Artillery Group.
1745 – Battalion FDC and CP move to new position at Orsfeld Germany.
1930 – Battalion FDC and CP closed in new position at Orsfeld Germany.
2200 – Wire communication established with firing batteries.
0001 – 2400 – Fired two TOT’s one on enemy infantry and tanks an one on enemy batteries.
Fired 15 – minute H & I missions on road leading northeast out of
Eisonachmitt Germany.
Wednesday – 7th March 194555
March 7th to March 8th, 2nd Calvary GP., Idesheim Germany, Bitburg Germany, Badem Germany, Metterich Germany, Erdorf Germany, Badem Germany, Gindorf Germany
Wednesday – 7th March 194556
Wednesday – 7th March 194557
The Battalion departed Matzen Germany.
Wednesday – 7th March 194558
The Battalion arrived Orsfeld Germany.
Wednesday – 7th March 194559
Caption reads – Bitburg
Wednesday – 7th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report61
Orsfeld, Germany wL2059
Clark, Carey A. (FA) 0 249 134 Major
Relieved of command 1193 in addition to
other duties as of 2 Mar 45.
Garland, Max L. (FA) 01 165 292 1st Lt. Code A-1981
Principal dy Liaison Pilot 1981 not pre-
viously reported.
Departed Matzen, Germany wL1455 1840 via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta 2100.
Distance marched approximately 14 miles.
No limited assignment personnel.
Wednesday – 7th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report62
Wednesday – 7th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report63
Wednesday – 7th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report64
Wednesday – 7th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report65
Dear Family,
Here we are in our new house at #21 Stadtstrasse in _______. It’s a nice house. The windows are intact and the kettle coal stove is really putting out – it’s raining outside. The people don’t want to leave their houses, but with my perfect German – and 35 men convinced them. I almost got the master bedroom – sheets, down pillows, deep mattresses and all, I gave it up to be near the orderly room. Hendry is playing the Organ and it sounds rather – bad. Peter is at the guns – quietly going nuts. He has a tough job when we move- but does it real well. Max Garland is back! He’s still flying so I guess the Doc’s found no damage. I haven’t seen him, but Joe Hamilton gave me the dope. Speaking of Joe – he’s a proud papa – Kathleen, girl (good guess) born on Washington’s birthday. We are all smoking cigars. Had a letter from Jane tonight she’s remembered my birthday and has the date one day (6th) off. Hay – can’t even remember the exact day myself. Was it the 6th or the 7th? Guess I’m tired – or have the
ETO shakes. I had a real swell letter from Dad last night. I sure like to hear from him. I know he’s real busy so I’ll forgive him right off. He mentioned working all over the yard – in last night’s Stars & Stripes there was a picture of Chi. Coal merchant (Pres.) shoveling coal in the Union League Club furnace – was going to send it home, but sort of got confused early this morning. We sure have been eating good the last week or two. Meat two times a day – I mean by meat not stew, steak, pork chops, chicken, roast beef. Had a couple of real eggs for breakfast yesterday. Boy were they good. Even chicken has a soldier with his hand in her nest – waiting for the little egg. She doesn’t even have a chance to snuggle down on it – ‘cause its gone with the cry – “Hey, another egg!!”
Will write again real soon, My love to all,
Tom.
L to R. M/Sgt. Unknown, CWO Joseph G. Hamilton
Thursday – 8th March 194566
The 2nd Cavalry Group (attached to the 76th Infantry Division) continued to screen the south flank of XII Corps. After clearing Gladbach (L34), Landscheid (L35), Burg (L35) and Heeg Cut (L35), the 385th Infantry (76th Infantry Division), crossed the Salm River in a drive toward Grosslitgen (L35). Meanwhile, the 304th Infantry (76th Infantry Division) drove three miles to the Salm River, taking Greverath (L24) and prepared to cross the River. Well east of other infantry units, the 5th Infantry Division had both the 2nd and 11th Infantry Regiments across the Salm River. Far to the east, Combat Command ”A” and “B” (4th Armored Division) took more ground north and west of Koblenz (L99), capturing Bassenheim (L89), Wolken (L89), Kobern , Rubenach (L89), Mueheim (L89), Karlich (L89), Kruft (L89), Plaidt (L89), Miesenheim (F70), Saffig (L79), and Kettig (L89). Advancing late in the period, the 11th Infantry (5th Infantry Division), attached to 4th Armored Division, brought its elements near elements of the 4th Armored Division. There was no change in the 80th Infantry Division, which had been pinched out by the northerly attack of the 5th Infantry Division.
Thursday – 8th March 194567
0900 – Battalion Exec left to inspect firing battery positions.
1015 – Battalion Exec returned to Battalion C.P.
1030 – Battalion Commandeer left to register batteries by Air OP.
1315 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1200 – Battalion alerted for move tomorrow.
0001 – 2400 – Registered Battery “B” on Check Point No. 1 and Batteries “A” and “C” on
same with excellent results. H & I fire on Mandersche and Laufield
with 2 rounds per hour on each.
Thursday – 8th March 194568
Arrived Orsfeld Germany
Thursday – 8th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report69
Friday – 9th March 194570
On the south flank of XII Corps, the 76th infantry Division (with attached 2nd Cavalry Group) gained three miles in zone to a line about one mile east of the Salm River. While the attached 2nd Cavalry Group screened the corps south flank, Bruch (L35), Bergweiler (L35), Musweiler (L35), Hupperath (L35), Schladt (L35) and Minderlittgen (L35) were taken by the 76th Infantry Division’s 304th and 385th Infantry Regiments. Far to the east, gains of up to four miles were made by Combat command “B” (4th Armored Division), which captured Hambuch (L63), Dunfus (L68), Roes (L68) and Montenich (L68), while Combat Command “A” maintained position. South of Mayen (L69), Reserve Combat Command, (4th Armored Division) preceded the attached 11th Infantry, then about ten miles from the Rhine River. The 2nd and 10th Infantry Regiments (5th Infantry Division) each gained nine miles, mopping up and taking Bettenfeld (L36) and Manderscheid (L36). Far to the west, the 80th Infantry Division maintained position while preparing to attack to the east.
Friday – 9th March 194571
Three days later we were attached as direct support to the famous fighting 4th Armored Division that moved down the long extended finger of territory north of the Moselle River and reached Ochtnedung, thus joining with the First Army near the Rhine, a short distance from Coblenz. Part of the Battalion took one wrong road and soon found itself spearheading for the Infantry and Tank Destroyer reconnaissance parties.
Friday – 9th March 194572
From the 9th until the end of the month, the Battalion was almost constantly on the move, in several instances having occupied new positions twice in the same day. The 4th Armored Division broke through the Siegfried line early in March and went as far as Koblenz, Germany. It was this Battalion’s mission to support their drive. The moves shown in par. 1 reflect this mission.
Friday – 9th March 194573
0900 – Batteries given Close Station – March Order preparatory to moving later.
1116 – Battalion Commander and Advanced Parties left Battalion C.P. for new position area.
1130 – Battalion left area on its way to new position area at Ochtnedung, Germany. Order
of March: Headquarters, “A”, “B”, “C” and Service Battery.
2100 – Battalion given orders to remain on side of road until daylight and to continue march
early tomorrow. Weather: Cool and damp with intermittent rain. Distance
marched: 35 miles. Morale: Excellent.
Friday – 9th March 194574
Friday – 9th March 194575
The Battalion departed Orsfeld
Friday – 9th March 194576
The Battalion departed Orsfeld Germany. Marched to Ochtendung, Germany arriving March 10th, saw Rhine River.
Another blackout ride to Ochtnedung (Germany) near Koblenz (Germany). Mathis (Cpl. Jasper A. Mathis) killed. Luftwaffe appears for first time Consdorf
Colonel Davis Paper78
We were attached as direct support for the famous fighting 4th Armored Division and moved down the long extended finger of territory north of the Moselle River to reach Ochtendung and joined the First Army near the Rhine River. A short distance from Koblenz our battalion took one road and found itself leading and spearheading the Infantry. It was that fluid. We followed the 4th Armored Division, in their race through the German countryside, always had four or five additional battalions of artillery besides their own armored division, artillery that went with them on these thrusts through the German towns and lines. That’s where we were for quite a bit of the time. It was quite hairy because when they came under airborne bursts of artillery, of course, the 4th Armored people could get down in their tanks and their troop carriers, and here we were, running around in jeeps and open trucks. But we came through that in good shape.
Caption reads – Cpl. Norbert B. Schulte, Cpl. Wiley A. Parsons, Pfc. Henry J. Butcher and others In Battery B, Koblenz Germany
Friday – 9th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report79
Enroute to Ochethdung, Germany
Departed Orsfeld, Germany wL2059 1140
via Motor Convoy. Bivouacked 1930 in the
vicinity of wL5481. Distance marched
approximately 39 miles.
No limited assignment personnel.
Friday – 9th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report80
Enroute to Ochtendung, Germany
Departed Orsfield, Germany wL1958 at 1200
via Motor Convoy Bivouacked for night at 2230
Distance marched approximately 34 miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday – 9th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report81
Kaisersesch, Germany wL5781
Departed Orsfeld, Germany 1000. Via
Motor Convoy. Arr present sta 1900.
Distance marched approximately
36 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday – 9th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report82
Kaisersesch Germany wL5781
Departed Wilsecker Germany via motor
convoy 1100 bivouacked in vicinity of
Kaisersesch Germany 2200 distance
marched approximately 35 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday – 9th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report83
Enroute to Ochtendung, Germany
Departed Oberweis, Germany wL0552 at
1235 via Motor Convoy. Bivouacked for
night at 2315. Distance marched approx.-
imately 40 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Friday – 9th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report84
Enroute to Ochtendung, Germany
Departed Orsfeld, Germany wL2059 1130 via
Motor Convoy. Bivouacked 1930 in the
vicinity of wL5481. Distance marched
approximately 39 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Saturday – 10th March 194585
In the XII Corps zone Combat Command “A” (4th Armored Division) cleared ground along the west bank of the Rhine River, and along the north bank of the Moselle River, capturing Gondorf (L78), Wirfus (L67), Guls (L89), Winningen (L89) and Kobern (L89) while Combat Command “B” took Illerich (L67), Greimersburg (L57), Carden (L67), Landkern (L57), and Brohl (L68). The 5th Infantry Division (less 11th Infantry) gained three miles with its 2nd Infantry clearing the area west of the Lieser River. Then the 10th Infantry relieved the 2nd Infantry and captured Cochem (L57). After being relieved, the 2nd Infantry moved eastward to join the 4th Armored Division. To the rear, the 89th Infantry Division began relieving elements of the 5th and 76th Infantry Divisions. The 90th Infantry Division completed mopping up in zone and proceeded to an assembly area. Farther north, the 76th Infantry Division (with 2nd Cavalry Group attached) continued to clear enemy in zone, capturing Gipperath (L36), Plein (L35), Luxem (L45), and Karl (L06). The 80th Infantry Division was pulled back to the vicinity of Luxembourg (P81) enroute to XX Corps after being relieved from XII Corps.
Saturday – 10th March 194586
1100 – Battalion started on its way to Ochtendung, Germany after bivouacking on side of
road throughout night.
1500 – Battalion arrived in new position area at Ochtendung, Germany Distance marched
22 miles. Weather: Cool, damp with intermittent rain. Morale: Excellent.
1530 – Coordinate of installations as follows: CP – wL752945: “A” – wL76229531: “B” –
wL74449606: “C” – wL74829590.
1615 – Wire communication established with 410th Field Artillery Group and firing Batteries.
0001 – 2400 – All three batteries registered on railroad yard in Koblenz. Fire H & I in
Grenzhausen and in Neider at rate of three rounds
per hour on each starting at 1930.
Saturday – 10th March 194587
The Battalion having moved from Orsfeld, Germany, with the 410th Field Artillery Group, with the mission of supporting the 4th Armored division in exploiting its salient near Koblenz, Germany, continued its March to positions in vicinity of Ochtendung, Germany (wL750944) from where all batteries were registered on Koblinz that day.
Saturday – 10th March 194588
Arrived Ochtendung Germany (after long march)
Saturday – 10th March 194589
Saturday – 10th March 194590
Battery “B” man Corporal Jasper A. Mathis – Florence, Alabama was killed on night march when tube of a 155mm gun smashed through front of the truck and crushed him.
Saturday – 10th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report91
Ochtendung, Germany wL7594
Departed bivouac area wL5481 1130 via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta 1530.
Distance marched approximately 20 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Saturday – 10th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report92
Ochtendung, Germany wL7595
Departed bivouac area at 1030 via Motor
Convoy enroute to present Sta arrived
present Sta at 1500. Distance marched app-
roximately 22 miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 10th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report93
Ochtendung, Germany wL7594
Parker, Frank C. 34 359 153 Sgt.
Dy to sk in qrs LD
Mathis, Jasper A. 34 338 540 Cpl.
Dy to accidentally killed motor
Vehicle wreck in line of dy. Non-
battle casualty.
Departed Kaisersesch, Germany 0720.
Via Motor Convoy. Arr present sta
900. Distance marched approximately
20 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 10th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report94
Ochtendung Germany wL7594
Departed Kaisersesch Germany via motor
Convoy 0730 arr present Sta 1030
Distance marched approximately 20 miles
On EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 10th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report95
Ochtendung, Germany wL7594
Departed bivouac area at 0550 via Motor
Convoy enroute to present Sta. Arrived
present Sta at 1550. Distance marched
approximately 45 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Saturday – 10th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report96
Ochtendung, Germany wL7594
Departed Bivouac area wL5481 1130 via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta 1530.
Distance marched approximately 20 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Saturday – 10th March
1st Lt. Marriott – V-Mail (Photo Mail) Home
Dear Family,
Read your papers again around this date – as were doing quite a job. I haven’t had a chance to write to you for two or three days because I had been very busy and up very late at night. We have been three nights in three houses and one night on the ground. This new place isn’t bad. My German is improving!! Had to kick several families out of their houses so we could have a place for Savage and my men. Some of them said Ok some jabbered for a long time, as there was no argument where I was concerned – they got!! Have you ever put an old lady out in the street? I have!! One thing that makes it better is that they cling together like a couple of / mand others always make room. Will drop you a letter when I get some sleep. All of us are OK – just pooped out. Love to all,
Tom.
Sunday – 11th March 194597
Along the Rhine River, in the eastern part of XII Corps zone , Combat Command “B” (4th Armored Division) was relieved by the 11th Infantry after clearing its zone of the enemy, while Combat Command “A” and reserve Combat Command maintained their positions and patrolled. Making good gains in an area southwest of Maxen (L69), the 5th Infantry Division (less 11th Infantry) cleared Udler (L37), Oberwinkel (L47), Niederwinkel (L47), Gevenich (L57), Strotzbush (L46), Strohn (L46), Faid (L57) and Gevenich (L57). The 76th Infantry Division (with attachments 2nd Cavalry Group) was relieved by the 89th Infantry Division in zone, and then proceeded to a new zone farther south. Meanwhile, the 89th Infantry Division continued the attack to the northeast in the former zone of the 78th Infantry Division.
An enemy shell estimated to be 280 mm, struck and exploded within ten yards of the building housing the Forward Echelon in the city of Luxembourg, killing two enlisted men and causing considerable damage to the building.
Sunday – 11th March 194598
0635 – Battalion Commander left to inspect firing batteries.
1100 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1136 – Battalion Commander left for 410th F.A. Group.
1600 – 183rd F.A. Group commander, Colonel Bartlett, visited Fire Direction Center and
gave key personnel brief of situation.
1730 – Group Commander left Fire Direction Center.
1930 – Battalion relieved of attachment to 410th F.A. Group. And attached to 183rd
F.A. Group by Colonel Bartlett.
0001 – 2400 – Completed calibration of Batteries “B” and “C” by Ballistic an Technical
Service Team No. 3. Fired two TOT missions on enemy activity. H & I’s
fired on town of Oberlahanstain from
2000 at rate of 2 rounds per hour. Continued H & I’s on Grenehausen and
Neider at rate of 3 rounds per hour until 0600.
Sunday – 11th March 194599
The Battalion was relieved from attached to the 410th Field Artillery Group, and was attached to the 183rd Field Artillery Group with no change in mission.
Caption reads – Koblenz
Sunday – 11th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report100
Ochtendung, Germany wL7594
Humphrey, Robert G. (FA) 0 254 639 Maj.
Dy to temporary dy approximately 8 days
Cite University, Paris France as of 9
Mar 45.
No limited assignment personnel
Monday – 12th March 1945101
In the eastern part of the XII Corps zone, Combat Command “A” (4th Armored Division) patrolled along the west bank of the Rhine River and north bank of the Moselle River, while Combat Command “B” and Reserve Combat Command went into assembly areas. Elements of the 90th Infantry Division relieved 4th Armored Division in zone. The 11th Infantry reverted from 4th Armored Division to 5th Infantry Division control, and all three regiments of the division patrolled in zone on the north bank of the Moselle River, west of the 90th Infantry Division. Attacking to the east the 353rd and 355th Infantry Regiments (89th Infantry Division) gained seven miles, clearing Niederscheidweiler (L46), Diefenbach (L45), Driesch (L47) and Lutzerath (L47). The 76th Infantry Division passed control of the 417th Infantry to the 10th Armored Division, while advancing east and taking Kinderbeuern (L45), Urzig (L45), Osann (L44), Kesten (L44), Peisport (L44) and Maring (L44).
Monday – 12th March 1945102
1010 – Battalion Exec left to inspect HQ an Service Batteries.
1100 – Battalion Exec returned to Battalion CP.
1140 – Close Station, March Order receive.
1700 – FDC and CP close in new position at Ruder.
1730 – Batteries “A”, “B” and “C” close in new positions. Coordinates follow: “A” –
wL75968660: “B” – wL75198754; “C” – wL75148675.
1930 – Receive XII Corps Survey Control received from 183rd FA Group. Transmitted
to Assistant S-2.
0001 – 2400 – One sound on sound mission fired with Chimes Baker on one enemy gun.
Two H & I mission on RR Junction and town – two rounds per hour on each.
Monday – 12th March 1945103
The Battalion departed Ochtendung Germany.
Monday – 12th March 1945104
Monday – 12th March 1945105
The Battalion arrived Ruber Germany.
Monday – 12th March 1945106
Monday – 12th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report107
Ruber, Germany wL7488
Departed Ochtendung Germany wL7594 1530
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta
1600. Distance marched approximately 6
miles.
No limited assignment personnel.
Monday – 12th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report108
Dreckenach, Germany wL7785
Departed Ochtendung, Germany wL7595 at 1530
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta at 1645
Distance marched 8 miles.
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Monday – 12th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report109
Dreckenach, Germany wL7787
Departed Ochtendung, Germany 1500.
Via Motor Convoy. Arr present sta
1530. Distance marched approximately
8 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Monday – 12th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report110
Dreckenack Germany wL7787
Departed Ochtendung Germany via motor
Convoy 1445 arr present Sta 1600
Distance marched approximately 8 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Monday – 12th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report111
Ruber, Germany wL7488
Departed Ochtendung, Germany wL7594 1530
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta
1600. Distance marched approximately6
miles.
Tuesday – 13th March 1945112
Elements of XII Corps crossed the Moselle River during the period, joining in the coordinated attack to effect contact with Seventh U.S. Army and enveloped enemy forces in the Assr-Moselle-Rhine area.
XII Corps front at this time ran roughly from southwest to northeast. At the extreme northeastern part of the zone, the 4th Armored Division was paroling. Just to the south the 5th and 90th Infantry Divisions were deployed along the north bank of the Moselle River. During the night both divisions jumped off following an artillery preparation of two hours, seizing bridgeheads across the Moselle River which they enlarged to approximately one mile in depth, and which were consolidated by the end of the period. Two regiments of each division had crossed before the period closed. Farther west the 89th and 76th Infantry Divisions were also along the north bank of the Moselle River, and were clearing out enemy pockets . Artillery harassed the enemy’s escape routes. At the extreme southwest of Corps zone the 2nd Cavalry Croup was relieved from attachment to the 76th Infantry Division, and began movement to join the 90th Infantry Division.
Tuesday – 13th March 1945113
On March 13th we boarded the 4th Armored Division Express again this time in its drive south across the Moselle River behind the Germans in the Saar Line.
Tuesday – 13th March 1945114
0710 – Situation Overlay as of 121200 March 1945 received from 183rd FA Group.
Forwarded to S-2.
0845 – Battalion Commander and S-2 left Battalion CP to reconnoiter for ground OP
positions.
1215 – Battalion Commander and S-2 returned to Battalion CP.
1230 – Battery Commander’s Meeting held at Headquarters Battery Mess.
1345 – Battalion Commander left for Air Strip to register Batteries by Plain.
1645 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion CP.
0001 – 2400 – Fired upon single enemy piece – mission completed at 1750 –piece
destroyed. Fired one Battalion volley on town. Fired on enemy CP which
was neutralized. Fired 36 – minute preparation on enemy town and CP’s
and defiles followed by two batteries volleys per hour on each town. Two
H & I missions fired.
Tuesday – 13th March 1945115
The Battalion again provided direct fire support for the 4th Armored Division in its drive south across the Moselle River behind the Germans in the Saar Line. With very short stops in Ruber, Beulich, Simmern, Windesheim, Pfaffen, Schwabenheim, Neider and Saulheim
Tuesday – 13th March 1945116
Rüber Germany. March 13th to March 15th, Observed enemy artillery battery and adjusted fire. Fired on thirty enemy trucks.
Tuesday – 13th March 1945117
Dreckenack Germany
Wednesday – 14th March118
Effective enemy combat strength opposing Third U.S. Army was estimated at this time as being 8,500 effective and twenty tanks or assault guns against XII Corps.
After crossing the Moselle River the previous day, the 5th and 90th Infantry Division continued to attack to the south in XII Corps zone, with the 5th Infantry Division cleaning Lutz (L67) and Treis (L67), and the 90th Infantry Division taking Herschwisen (L87), Oppenhausen (L87), Udunrausen (L88), Morshausen (L77), Beulich (L77) and Wacken (L77). The 5th Infantry Division held a bridgehead two and one-half miles deep and three miles wide at the end of the period while the 90th Infantry Division secured a bridgehead two and one-half miles deep and about two miles wide. Preparing to attack to the south the 76th and 89th Infantry Divisions continued mopping up the enemy north of the Moselle River.
Wednesday – 14th March 1945119
The Battalion fired a thirty-six (36) minute preparation for the attack of the XII Corps across the Moselle River, and continued with fairly heavy firing that day and on the 15th and 16th March.
Wednesday – 14th March 1945120
0603 – Situation Overlay as of 130800 March 1945 received from 183rd FA Group. Maps:
German 1:50,000. Sheet Nos. 61 62, 81 and 83. Forwarded to Battalion S-2.
0830 – Battery Commander’s Meeting held at Headquarters Battery Mess.
1015 – Major Cooper, 183rd FA Group S-4, visited Battalion CP.
1045 – Battalion Exec and Major Cooper left to inspect firing batteries.
1130 – XII Corps Survey Control dated 11th and 12th March 1945 received from 183rd
FA Group dated 13th March 1945. Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
1210 – Battalion Exec and Major Cooper returned to Battalion CP.
1245 – Control Station Overlay. Scale 1:50,000 received from 183rd FA Group dated
13th March 1945. Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
1300 – Battalion Exec and Major Cooper left Battalion CP to continue inspection of Firing
Batteries and Service Battery.
1315 – Battalion Commander left for Battalion Air strip.
1530 – Battalion Exec returned to Battalion CP.
1640 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion CP.
0001 – 2400 – Continued two battery volleys per hour on two towns until 0600. Seven
H & I missions fired at various times during period. Seven concentrations
fired on enemy troops, vehicles, guns and small counterattacks.
14th February to 14th March 1945
General Order No: 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star
A Fourth Oak Leaf Cluster is awarded to WILLIAM D. HIGHTOWER, 01179097, 1ST Lt. Field Artillery, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United Stated distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over Luxembourg and Germany during the period 14 February to 14 March 1945. While serving as artillery Liaison Pilot Lt. Hightower distinguished himself by outstanding service in flying 35 sorties near of over enemy lines for the purpose of front line reconnaissance, and adjustment, surveillance, and registration of artillery fire on enemy installations. The meritorious achievement of Lt. Hightower in the outstanding performance of his missions during the period mentioned measurably contributed to the success of the operations. Entered military service from North Carolina. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No: 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star, Page 10
Caption reads – Art Bishop, awaiting orders
Wednesday – 14th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report121
Dreckenach, Germany wL7785
Perkins, Cecil R. 34 390 858 Tec. 5 Code J4A
Dy to lost to Hosp unknown LM Motor Accident
Dy 244 Non-battle loss
Ellis, Robert E. 34 248 808 Pfc.
Dy to sk in 316th Clr Co LD Motor Accident
Dy 641 Non-battle casualty
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Wednesday – 14th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report122
Dreckenach, Germany wL7787
Parker, Frank C. 34 359 153 Sgt.
Sk in qrs LD to dy
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Dear Family,
Things have been going along quite well the last few days. We have been on the “go” and all of us are kind of bushed. I’ve had a couple of letters the last few days but haven’t had any chance to do any writing myself. We are in a real nice house now. Curtains, beds, nice furniture etc. The people “are” cooperative (no choice) but rather sullen. Four planes have been over in the last few days – two were shot down. One by a P-38 the other – just crashed because he didn’t see a hill in front of him – it was very dark. Bet his face was red. Will write a letter soon.
Love to all
Tom.
Thursday – 15th March 1945123
The combined attack of 5th and 90th Infantry Division continued south of the Moselle river in the extreme eastern end of XII Corps zone. The 10th Infantry (5th Infantry Division) was attached to the 4th Armored Division while the 2nd and 11th Infantry Regiments each gained three miles, clearing Dommershausen (L77), Dorweiler (L77), Kastellaun (L76), Zilhausen (L76), Korweiler (L76), Morsdorf (L76), Lahr (L76) and Bush (L76). Meanwhile, the 90th Infantry Division gained four miles to the southeast, capturing Oppenhausen (L87), Herschwiesen (L87), Buchhoiz (L87), Dieler (L87), Ney (L87), Kratzenburg (L87), Halsenbach (L87), Ehr (L87), Gondershausen (87), Merinuth (L87) and Beulich (L77). Striking rapidly south from its assembly area, the 4th Armored Division pushed through the 90th Infantry Division and gained over fifteen miles. The 10th Infantry (5th Infantry Division) and 359th Infantry (90th Infantry Division) were attached, and prepared to follow the rapidly advancing armored elements. While Combat Command “A” took Beulich (L77), Liesenfeld (L78), and Ellern (L95), Combat Command “B” cleared Dommershausen (L77), Laubach (L86) and Simmern (L85). To the west, the 89th Infantry Division attacked south across the Moselle River, gaining two miles and clearing Bullary (L56), Neef (L56), Nehaan (L66), Senhals (L66), Ellenz (L66) and Poltersdorf (L66). Artillery batteries listing nearly and hour preceded attack. The 76th Infantry Division relieved the 2nd Cavalry Group in zone and continued patrolling along the northern bank of the Moselle River. Upon relief, the 2nd Cavalry Group instituted movement to the eastern part of the corps zone.
Thursday – 15th March 1945124
0845 – Battalion commander left Battalion C.P. for Mayen on official business.
0845 – XII Corps Survey Control date 14th March 1945 receive from 410th F.A. Group.
Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
1030 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1035 – Battalion Commander left to inspect Batteries “A”, “B” and “C”.
1200 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1300 – Battalion temporarily relieved of attachment to 183rd F.A. Group and attached to
410th F.A. Group.
0001 – 2400 – Fired 5 TOT missions on enemy troops, tanks, vehicles and batteries. Four
H & I missions fired at various times during period. AOP adjusted on enemy
battery direct hit on one piece, others neutralized, ammunition exploding and
burning. Group AOP adjusted on enemy troops and vehicles in town, with
excellent results. Fired 5 other missions on enemy vehicles, troops, mortars
and C.P.
Thursday – 15th March 1945125
Friday – 16th March 1945126
A TWX was received from Twelfth U.S. Army Group which stated that First U.S. Army would assign the 28th Infantry Division immediately to Third U.S. Army.
Continuing its whirlwind drive to the south, the 4th Armored Division (XII Corps) gained up to eighteen miles, with Combat Command “A” closing to the Rhine River in the vicinity Bretzenheim (M14) while Combat Command “B” crossed the Hahe River near Badmunster (M03), then Continued south through Hallgarten (M02). The attached 10th and 359th Infantry Regiments were well in advance of other infantry units, with the 359th Infantry in Simmern (L85) at the close of the period, while the 10th Infantry captured Blankenrath (L66) and Panzweiler (L65). The 90th Infantry Division (less the 359th Infantry) reduced the enemy in the far eastern section of the Corps zone, clearing Bad Salzig (L97) and Boppard (L98). To the west, the 5th Infantry Division (less 10th Infantry) gained seven miles, taking Buch (L76), Kastellaun (L76) and Hundreim (L75) in its mopping up drive to the rear of the 4th Armored Division. By this time the 4th Armored Division was cutting up enemy units on a large scale, while the 5th and 90th Infantry Divisions were mopping up and taking large numbers of prisoners. The 89th Infantry Division enlarged its bridgehead over the Moselle River, gaining four and one-half miles and taking Burg (L55), Briedel (L55) and Ellenz (L66), while the 76th Infantry Division maintained its positions on the north bank of the Moselle River in the western section of XII Corps zone. The 2nd Cavalry Group screened the corps north flank, while maintaining contact with VIII Corps.
Friday – 16th March 1945127
0830 – Battalion moved from position at Ruber
0900 – Battalion reverted to 18th F.A. Group control.
1130 – Fire Direction Center and C.P. close in new position at Beulich.
1545 – XII Corps Survey Controls dated 14th and 15th March 1945 received from 410th
FA Group. Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
2100 – Battalion moved from Beulich
0001 – 2400 – Battalion fired three registrations.
Friday – 16th March 1945128
The Battalion departed Ruber Germany.
Friday – 16th March 1945129
The Battalion arrived Beulich Germany.
Friday – 16th March 1945130
C.S.M.O. (Close Station March Order) at 5 AM, Rüber Germany, crossed Moselle at Hatzenport Germany, 2nd C.S.M.O of the day. Blackout drive, arrived Simmern Germany
Friday – 16th March 1945131
Friday – 16th March 1945132
The Battalion departed Beulich Germany.
Friday – 16th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report133
Friday – 16th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report134
Enroute Kumbdchen, Germany
Departed Dreckenach, wL7785 at 0845 via
motor convoy. Arr Beulich, Germany wL7975
established position & fired. Departed
Beulich, German at 2230 enroute to
Kumbdchen, Germany
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday – 16th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report135
Enrout to Keidelheim, Germany
Departed Dreckenach, Germany 0900. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived Beulich, Germany
1105. Distance marched 15 miles.
Established position & fired. Departed
Beulich, Germany 2300 enrout to Keidelheim, Germany.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday – 16th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report136
Enroute to Kumbochen Germany wL8354
Yorkes, Samuel J., Jr. 13 150 117 Cpl.
Dy to sk LD 315th Collecting Co
“Non-battle” (Disease) “Dy 228” as “Dy 505”
Dumas, Willie G. 34 339 308 Pfc.
“Dy 531”
Above 2 EM Dy to sk LD 315th
Collecting Co “Non_battle” (Disease)
Departed Dreckenack Germany via motor
Convoy at 0900. Arr Beulich Germany
wL7975 established position and fired
Registration and departed enroute to
Kumbochen Germany at 2230
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday 16th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report137
Enroute to Windasheim, Germany
Departed Ochtendung, Germany wL7594 at
1500 via Motor Convoy. Bivouacked for
night at 1800. Distance marched approx.-
imately 12 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Friday – 16th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report138
Saturday – 17th March 1945139
XII Corps’ spearhead continued to be its 4th Armored Division followed up by the 5th and 90th Infantry Divisions. Gains of six miles were made by 4th Armored Division after it passed through Bad Kreuznach (M03). Three minor counter attacks were easily repulsed by the division. The 5th Infantry Division gained five miles with the 2nd and 11th Infantry Regiments while the 10th Infantry was relieved from 4th Armored Division and reverted to 5th Infantry Division. The 359th Infantry (90th Infantry Division) continued to support the 4th Armored Division while the remainder of the 90th Infantry Division gained two miles, mopping up and clearing the enemy to the Rhine River. After closing in corps zone, the 11th Armored Division passed through the 89th Infantry Division, gaining more than fifteen miles. At the end of the period, forward elements of the 11th Armored Division were about ten miles northwest of the 4th Armored Division. After being motorized the 355th Infantry (89th Infantry Division) followed closely behind the 11th Armored Division, while the remainder of the 89th Infantry Division pushed forward three miles. To the west, the 76th Infantry Division maintained its positions north of the Moselle River, while in the eastern extremity of the corps zone the 2nd Cavalry Group continued to screen the flank alone the Rhine River.
Saturday – 17th March 1945140
0730 – Battalion closed in new position at Simmern.
0815 – Wire communications established with firing batteries.
1530 – Battalion Commander left for 183rd F.A. Group.1600 – Battalion Commander
returned to Battalion C.P.
1615 – Battalion Commander and Battery Commanders with their Reconnaissance Parties
left on reconnaissance for new positions.
1845 – Situation Overlay date 17th March 1945 as of 1200 received from S-2, 183rd
F.A. Group. Map Reference: 1:50,000.
1845 – Operational Directive #3 from 183rd F.A. Group dated 17th March 1945 with
attached overlay. Map Scale: 1/50.000 received from 183rd F.A. Group S-2 giving
route of march and order of march for movement to new position.
0001 – 2400 – Attempted fire on enemy battery with PJY Plane – Visibility too poor.
Caption reads – March 1945, Rhineland Germany, R.O. jeep, Russell Kuhn driver, A Battery
Saturday – 17th March 1945141
The Battalion arrived Simmern Germany.
Saturday – 17th March 1945142
Saturday – 17th March 1945143
Simmern (Germany)
Saturday – 17th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report144
Saturday – 17th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report145
Saturday – 17th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report146
Keidelheim, Germany wL8354
Arrived Keidelheim, Germany 0700.
Distance marched 30 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 17th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report147
Saturday – 17th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report148
Enroute to Windesheim, Germany
Departed bivouac area at 1000 via Motor
Convoy enroute to present Sta. Bivouacked
for night at 1500. Distance marched ap-
proximately 20 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Saturday – 17th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report149
Sunday – 18th March 1945150
Along the Rhine River in the northern part of XII Corps zone, the 2nd Cavalry Group patrolled aggressively while the 90th Infantry Division cleared ground south alone; the river beyond Bingen (M15), which was under attack by the end of the period. The 4th Armored Division made gains south of the Nahe River while fanning out to the east and west in order to reduce by-passed concentrations of the enemy. Sobernheid (L93) and Reckerhausen (L76) were captured while the important town of Bad Kreuznach (M03) was cleared. Gaining eight miles, the 11th Armored Division continued to advance rapidly. Combat Command “A” forded the Nahe River, capturing Meddeersheim (L93), while Combat Command “B” crossed the same river five miles to the west and captured Becherbach (L82). The 355th Infantry (89th Infantry Division) was attached to 11th Armored Division and followed it closely, while the remainder of the 89th Infantry Division reduced enemy troops by-passed by the armored columns. Crossing the Moselle River, the 304th Infantry (76th Infantry Division) gained one mile while the remainder of the division patrolled north of the River.
Sunday – 18th March 1945151
0300 – Batteries “A”, “B” and “C” given Close Station, March Order preparatory to move to
new position.
0500 – Battalion move from positions vicinity of Simmern and closed in new position in
vicinity of Windeshaln at 0930.
0945 – Battalion CP and FDC opened in Windesheim.
1115 – Wire communications established with firing batteries and with 183rd F.A. Group.
1530 – Battalion march order and move from positions at Windesheim to
Pfaffen-Schwabenheim.
1900 – Battalion CP and FDC opened in Winerheim.
2000 – Wire communications established with firing batteries and with 183rd F.A. Group.
0001 – 2400 – Battery “C” registered and started registration of other two batteries but
CEMO interrupted its completion. Fired 4 – round concentration at edge of
airport – 3 hits reported on buildings at edge of airport.
Caption reads – March 1945,Chow line and washing mess kits
Sunday – 18th March 1945152
The Battalion departed Simmern Germany.
Sunday – 18th March 1945153
The Battalion move to new positions in the vicinity of Windersheim, (wM056452) registered on battery, then move again to positions in vicinity of Pfaffen-Schwabenheim, Germany, (wM1539).
Sunday -18th March 1945154
The Battalion arrived Windesheim.
Sunday – 18th March 1945155
The Battalion departed Windesheim.
Sunday – 18th March 1945156
The Battalion arrived Pfaffen-Schwabenheim Germany.
Sunday – 18th March 1945157
At Planig, Bad Kreuznach, Germany, adjusted on 20 krouts building a roadblock at Jugenheim Germany
Sunday – 18th March 1945158
C.S.M.O. (Close Station March Order) 2 AM Wolfsheim (Germany) and again at 5 PM Hagenheim (Germany)
Sunday – 18th March 1945159
23 January 1945 to 19 March 1945
C.S.M.O. (Close Station March Order) 2 AM Wolfsheim (Germany) and again at 5 PM Hagenheim (Germany)
Sunday – 18th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report160
Pfaffen-Schwabenheim, Germany wM1539
Depareted Simmern, Germany wL8454 0630 via
Motor Convoy. Arrived Windeshim, Ger-
many wM0545 0930. Distance marched 25
miles.
Departed Windesheim, Germany wM0545 1300
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta
2000. Distance marched 8 miles.
Sunday – 18th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report161
Sunday – 18th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report162
Pfaffort-Schwabenheim wM1439
Grant, Robert N. 33 542 975 Pfc.
Dy to sk in 46th Clearing Co LD.
Departed Keidelheim, Germany 0600. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived Windesheim,
Germany 0930. Established position.
Departed Windesheim, Germany 1700.
Arrived present sta 1930. Distance
marched approximately 10 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Sunday – 18th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report163
Bosenheim Germany wM1438
Departed Kumbochen Germany via motor convoy
at 0600 arr Windesheim Germany wM0545
at 1000 established position and departed
at 1700 arr present Sta 1930 distance
marched approximately 28 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Sunday – 18th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report164
Windesheim, Germany wM0545
Departed bivouac area at 0900 via Motor
Convoy enroute to present Sta. Arrived
present Sta at 1230. Distance marched
approximately 20 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Sunday – 18th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report165
Pfaffen-Schwabenheim, Germany wM1539
Departed Simmern, Germany wL8454 0630 via
Motor Convoy. Arrived Windesheim, Germany
wM0545 0930. Distance marched 28 miles.
Departed Windesheim, Germany wM0545 1800l…
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta 2000. distance marched 8 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Monday – 19th March 1945166
Direction of the attack of the 4th Armored Division and 90th Infantry Division was changed to the southeast to bring their forces to the banks of the Rhine River in the area Mainz (M35) – Worms (M41). The 2nd Cavalry Group was attached to the 90th Infantry Division, extending its patrols south along the Rhine River as far as Bingen (M15). The 359th Infantry (90th Infantry Division) was relieved from attachment to the 4th Armored Division and it along with the rest of the 90th Infantry Division, gained six miles across the Nahe River toward Mainz (M35). During the period, Horrweiler (M14), Aspisheim (M14), Dromersheim (M14) Sponsheim (M14) were taken by the 90th Infantry Division. Meanwhile, the 4th Armored Division (with 10th Infantry attached) cleared sixteen German towns, Combat Command “A” preceding Combat Command “B”. The 5th Infantry Division (less 10th Infantry) completed clearing its path of advance to the Nahe River, capturing Nussbaum (L93), Sobernheim (L93), Waldbocheiheim (L93) and Volxheim (13), and was prepared to cross the river at the close of the period. To the west, the 89th Infantry Division (less 355th Infantry) continued to mop up pockets of resistance by-passed by the 11th Armored Division, while that armored division plus the 355th Infantry gained eight miles and captured eleven towns. At the end of the period the 11th Armored Division was ten miles north of Kaiserslautern (R09). The 76th Infantry Division (less 385th infantry) maintained its positions both north and south of the Moselle River.
The fluid tactical situation presented the Army with ordnance problems similar to those encountered in the August campaigning, a 200-mile round trip being necessary to link the most advanced rail-heads at Trier (L22) and Apach (Q09) with forward ammunition supply points. In addition to obtaining more trucking companies, ordnance hauled Class V supplies on tank transporters and trailers, and created two provisional truck companies.
Monday – 19th March 1945167
The mission of the Battalion was change to support of the 90th Infantry Division.
Monday – 19th March 1945168
0645 – Situation Overlay as of 181800A March 1945 received from 183rd F.A. Group.
Map Reference: Germany 1/50,000. Forwarded to Battalion S-2.
0830 – Battalion Commander left to inspect Firing Batteries and to visit 183rd F.A.
Group Headquarters.
1100 – Battalion commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1115 – Battery Commander’s Meeting called.
1130 – XII corps Survey Control dated 17th and 18th March 1945 received. Map Reference:
Germany 1/25,000. Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
0001 – 2400 – Fired H & I on CR in town from 0300 to 0700. All three batteries registered
with normal charge. Registered “B” with super and checked “C”. Two TOT’s
fire on enemy infantry in towns. 12 H & I missions fired on Rail Road
Junction in towns. Fired on enemy vehicles and troops by AOP obtaining hits
on a road block during the fire.
Caption reads – “Our guns can hit a dime or the top a tree miles away.” The German PW’s cleaning up rubble.
German PW’s continue to clean up the rubble
Monday – 19th March 1945169
23rd January to 19th March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star
A Third Oak Leaf Cluster is awarded to ERNEST HENDRY, 01176997, 2nd Lt., Field Artillery, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United Stated distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over Luxembourg and Germany during the period 23 January 1945 to 19 March 1945. While serving as artillery Air Observer Lt. Hendry distinguished himself by outstanding service in flying 35 sorties near or over enemy lines for the purpose of conducting fire missions against enemy installations. The meritorious achievement of Lt Hendry in the outstanding performance of his missions during the period mentioned measurably contributed to the success of the operations. Entered military service from Michigan. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star, Page 10
17th December to 19th March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Second Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal
A second Oak Leaf Cluster is awarded to MAX L. GARLAND, 01165292, 1st Lt., Field Artillery, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United States distinguished himself by meritorious achievements while participating in aerial flight over Luxembourg and Germany during the period 17 December 1944 to 19 March 1945. While serving as artillery Liaison Pilot Lieutenant Garland distinguished himself by outstanding service in flight 35 sorties near or over enemy lines for the purpose of front line reconnaissance, and adjustment, surveillance, and registration of artillery fire on enemy installations, the meritorious achievement of Lt. Garland in the outstanding performance of this missions during the period mentioned measurable contributed to the success of the operations. Entered military service from Montana. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Second Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal, Page 9
Monday – 19th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report170
Tuesday – 20th March 1945171
Major action of XII Corps at this time was along the Rhine River all the way south to Ludwigshafen (M50). In the northern part of its zone, control over the 76th Infantry Division was passed to VIII Corps, at which time the division was patrolling along the Rhine River with the 304th Infantry mopping up south of the Moselle River. The 2nd Cavalry Group patrolled alone the Rhine River south of the 76th Infantry Division.
The 5th Infantry Division (-) mopped up while following 4th Armored Division toward Worms (M41). Changing the direction of its attack to the east, the 11th Armored Division (with attached 355th Infantry) gained eight miles, with Combat Command “A” clearing Marienthal (M11) Dannenfels (M11), Albisheim (M21), Harxheim (M21) and Monsheim (M31) while Combat Command “B” cleared Gollheim (M21), Offstein (M31) and Niedesheim (M41). Both combat commands were near the Rhine River between Worms (M41) and Ludwigshafen (M50). The 89th Infantry Division continued mopping up in the rear of the 11th Armored Division.
Tuesday – 20th March 1945172
Battery “B”, moved to position in vicinity of Wolfsheim, Germany, wM2241. Batteries “A” & “C” move to positions in the vicinity of Nieder-Saulheim, Germany (Wolfsheim) and registered. Later this date Battery “B” also move to this position.
Tuesday – 20th March 1945173
0730 – Battalion Commander and Battery Commanders left with advance parties to
reconnoiter for new positions in vicinity of Wolfsheim.
0800 – “B” Battery moved from positions vicinity of Pfaffen-Schwabenheim to new position
at Wolfsheim.
1000 – “B” Battery in position and ready to fire.
1230 – Colonel Bartlett, 183rd F.A. Group Commander, at Battalion C.P. at
Pfaffen-Schwabenheim and briefed Battalion Commander, Battalion Exec and
HQ Battery Commander on situation. Battalion to move by infiltration to new
positions vicinity of Nieder-Saulheim.
1230 – Batteries “A” and “C” move by infiltration to new position in Nieder-Saulheim.
1400 – Battalion C.P. and Fire Direction Center closed in new position at Nieder-Saulheim.
1430 – Batteries “A” and “C” in position and ready to fire.
1700 – XII corps Survey Control dated 18 March 1945 received from 183rd F.A. Group.
Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
1930 – Battery “B” moved from positions at Wolfsheim to Neider-Saulheim
and reported in position ready to fire.
0001 – 2400 – Fire one mission on fortification; fired seven H & I missions; concentrations
fried on enemy towns: one concentration fired on enemy infantry.
Tuesday – 20th March 1945174
The Battalion departed Pfaffen-Schwabenheim Germany.
Tuesday – 20th March 1945175
The Battalion arrived Neider Saulheim Germany.
Tuesday – 20th March 1945176
C.S.M.O. 5 AM (Close Station March Order) Wolfsheim, arrived B Battery only one in position firing at 2 different targets. #1, 3, + 4 at a fortified area, #2 at antitank gun. When A.L. gun was located whole battery went into action. 5 PM C.S.M.O. Moved to Neider-Saulheim Germany
Tuesday – 20th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report177
Neider-Saulheim, Germany wM2942
Glbeter, Louis T. (FA) 01 183 556 1st Lt.
Trfd to and departed for 344th FA Bn, APO
90 VOCG, XII Corps as of 18 Mar 45.
Departed Pfaffen-Schwabenheim, Germany WM
1539 1020 via Motor Convoy. Arr present
Sta 1500. Distance marched 10 miles.
No limited assignment personnel.
Tuesday – 20th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report178
Neider-Saulheim, Germany wM2942
Departed Bosenheim, Germany wM1438 at 1000
via motor convoy arrived present sta at
1400 Distance traveled 12 miles
Tuesday – 20th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report179
Neider Saulheim, Germany wM2942
Departed Pfaffen Schyabenheim, Germany
815. Via Motor Convoy. Arrived
Wolfsheim, Germany 0900 wM2241.
Distance marched approximately 6 miles.
Departed Wolssheim, Germany 1800. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta
1845. Distance marched approximately
6 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Tuesday – 20th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report180
Neider-Saulheim Germany wM2942
Ferkins, Melvin D. 38 410 775 Pvt. MOS 345 Code AA
Reasngd & rejd from atchd unassgd 48th
Reinforcement Bn, per par 32, SO #74 Hq
48th Reinforcement Bn Race W
Departed Bosenheim Germany via motor
convoy at 1230 arr present Sta 1430
distance marched approximately 13 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Tuesday – 20th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report181
Pfaffen-Schwabenheim, Germany wM1539
Departed Windesheim, Germany wM0545 via
Motor Convoy 1530. Arrived present Sta
1630. Distance marched approximately 8
miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Tuesday – 20th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report182
Neider-Saulheim, Germany wM2942
Departed Pfaffem-Schwabenheim, Germany
wM1539 1030 via Motor Convoy. Arrived
present Sta 1500. Distance marched 10
miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Wednesday – 21th March 1945183
Following change in VIII – XII Corps and XII – XX Corps boundaries, units of XII Corps cleared the zone from Bingen (Ml5) on the north to Worms (M41) on the south. North flank patrols were maintained by the 2nd Cavalry Group which captured Freiweinheim (M25) and Gaulsheim (M15) while the 90th Infantry Division made a direct attack on Mainz (M35) clearing half of the city against decreasing resistance. Elements of the division also cleared Dexheim (M43), Schornsheim (M33), Udenheim (M34), Hahnheim (M34), Selzen (M34), Mommenheim (M34) and Marienborn (M35). To the south, the 5th Infantry Division was mopping up the last of the enemy remaining in its zone, and the 11th Infantry was freed from this duty to move up to and patrol along the Rhine River. Capturing Eich (M42) and continuing to clear its area to the Rhine River, the 4th Armored Division (With attached 10th Infantry) gained up to fifteen miles while clearing Gimbsheim (M43), Bermersheim (M32), Weinheim (M22) , Dalheim (M43), Rhein-Durkheim (M42), Ibersheim (M42), Osthofen (M43), Bechtheim (M42), Mettenheim (M42), Frettenheim (M32), Dorndurkheim (M33), Wintersheim (M33), Dolgesreim (M33) and Eimsheim (M43). The 11th Armored Division gained ten miles to the Rhine River in the extreme southern part of Corps zone, relieving elements of the 4th Armored Division in and about Worms (M41). Following the 11th Armored Division, the 89th Infantry Division mopped up resistance.
Wednesday – 21st March 1945184
The Battalion was relieved of attachment to the 183rd Field Artillery Group and attached to the 410th Field Artillery Group which was acting as XII Corps Fire Direction Center “B”, with the mission of general support of the XII corps front.
Wednesday – 21st March 1945185
The Battalion fired three (3) preparation for the attack of the 90th Infantry Division, otherwise firing was generally limited to counter battery, registration, H & I and targets of opportunity reported by air OP’s.
Captured photo of a German field artillery battery. Batteries like this received counter battery fire from the 244th.
Captured photo of a German field artillery battery.
Captured photo of a German field artillery battery.
Wednesday – 21st March 1945186
0745 – Situation Overlay as of 201800 March 1945 received from 183rd F.A. Group.
Map Reference: Germany 1/50,000. Forwarded to S-2.
0830 – Battalion Commander left to inspection of firing batteries.
1000 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1200 – XII Corps Survey Control date 20 March 1945 received from 183rd F.A. Group.
Map Reference: Germany 1/25,000. Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
1230 – Battalion Commander left for 183rd F.A. Group.
1300 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1300 – Battalion relieved of attachment to 183rd F.A. Group and attached to 410th
F.A. Group.
1305 – Battalion Commander left for 410th F.A. Group.
1400 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
1425 – Battalion Exec left to inspect firing batteries.
1530 – Battalion Exec returned to Battalion C.P.
1650 – Battery Commander meeting held at Battalion C.P.
1656 – Battalion Commander and BC’s left on reconnaissance for new position area.
1800 – Battalion Commander returned to Battalion C.P.
0001 – 2400 – Three batteries registered. Fired three TOT’s on enemy battery – two of
which followed adjustment and were observed. Effect good. Batteries neutralized –
no direct hits observe. Three preparations fired for 90th Infantry Division. Fired
H & I on four Railroad Junctions in villages north of Rhine River 1200 to 2400.
Daliheim (Germany) – new replacement
Wednesday – 21stMarch 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report188
Neider-Saulheim Germany wM2942
Humphrey, Robert G. (FA) 0 254 639 Maj.
Temporary dy Cite Universitaire, Paris,
France to dy.
No limited assignment personnel
Wednesday – 21stMarch 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report189
Neider-Saulheim, Germany wM2942
CORRECTION (14 Mar 45)
Perkins, Cecil R. 34 390 858 Tec. 5
Dy to lost to Hosp unknown LD Motor
Accident Dy 244 Non-battle loss
SHOULD BE
Perkins, Cecil R. 34 390 858 Tec. 5
Dy to lost 101st Evac Hosp LD Motor
Accident Non-battle loss Dy 244
Ellis, Robert E. 34 248 808 Pfc. Code J4A
Sk in 316th Clr Co LD to lost to Hosp
Unknown Non-battle casualty Dy 641
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Wednesday – 21stMarch 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report190
Neider Saulheim, Germany wM2942
Bishop, Robert H. 20 140 539 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 315 Med Bn LD undetermined
Pelletier, Charles F. 31 070 785 Pvt. Code A3
Asgd & jd from atchd unasgd GFRC
Det 48 per par 35, SO #69 Hq 48th
Reinf Bn, APO 873. Race W.
Warren, Thomas F. 34 339 362 Pvt. Code AA
Reasgd & rejd from atchd unasgd GFRC
Det 48 per par 57, SO $69, Hq 48th
Reinf Bn, APO 873, Race W
Whitley, Clifford 6 973 412 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 5th Med Bn LD undetermined
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Wednesday – 21st March 1945
1st Lt. Marriott – V-Mail (Photo Mail) Home
Dear Mom,
Sorry about the mail situation but the war has to be won and we are winning it! Go – go – go 24 hours a day – we are getting so good at moving that we can do it without any trouble. We don’t dare unpack our junk till the sun goes down – we seldom move at night. The Jerry planes have been over very often – trying to damage our bridges – but he can’t do it. We haven’t had many good hot meals this last couple of weeks. The “C” rations have ruined my digestion and I have GI’s again. The bumpy roads about shake the pants off me – they’re down often enough anyway. We haven’t had any mail for a long time. I know no one knows where we are. Love Tom.
21st March 1945
Battle of the Rhine Land Ends
Battle of Central Europe Begins
March 22, 1945 to May 11, 1945
Thursday – 22nd March 1945192
A directive was received from Twelfth U.S. Army Group which changed the First – – Third U. S. Army boundary. Third U.S. Army Headquarters sent an operational directive to the Commanding Generals, VIII, XII and XX Corps, which in part gave the following information and orders: First U.S. Army was a attacking east from its bridgehead to seize the general line Siegen (G25) – – Giessen (G62) and was prepared to continue the advance northeast toward Kassel (C20). Seventh U.S. Army was to continue operations to reach the Rhine River and force crossings in its zone. Third U.S. Army was to seize and secure crossings over the Rhine River between Koblenz (L89) and Gimbsheim (M43) and to continue the attack to the northeast.
VIII Corps (76th, 87th and 89th Infantry Divisions and attached troops) was ordered to assume responsibility for the Rhine River line in zone to the mouth of the Nahe River (wM1152), to arrange directly with the Commanding General, V Corps (First U.S. Army), for transfer of the 28th Infantry Division to V Corps in the area in which the division was then located, at which time the new First – – Third U.S. Army boundary would become effective. VIII Corps was to cross the Rhine River south of the Lahn River in zone and advance generally east. It was to assume command of tile 89th Infantry Division from XII Corps
XII Corps (the 5th, 26th and 90th Infantry Divisions, the 4th and 11th Armored Divisions and attached troops) was to assume command of the 26th infantry Division from XX Corps, was to pass control of the 89th Infantry Division to VIII Corps, was to cross the Rhine River in zone, advance rapidly northeast, cross the Main River and continue the advance northeast.
Forces of the XII Corps were occupied in clearing up all enemy west of the Rhine River, and were generally along the river. The 2nd Cavalry Group patrolled along the river from Bingen (Ml5) to Mainz (M35). Clearing Mainz (M35), the 90th Infantry Division extended its front to the river line. Farther south, Combat Command “A” and Reserve Combat Command (4th Armored Division) were in assembly areas, while Combat Command “B” held positions along the west bank of the Rhine River both north and south of the XII – XX Corps boundary. The 5th Infantry Division completed mopping up in the rear of the 4th Armored Division, then moved forward and made an assault crossing to the Rhine River without artillery or air bombardment preparation. The 89th Infantry Division assembled at Sobeernheim (L93), fifteen miles southwest of Bad Kreuznach (M03), and the 26th Infantry Division passed to corps control during the period.
Caption reads – March 1945, Rhineland Germany – 90th Infantry Division, Doughs marching to the Rhine
Caption reads – March 1945, Rhineland Germany – 90th Infantry Division, Doughs marching to the Rhine
The pontoon bridge on the Rhine River from a Sherman Tank
Thursday – 22nd March 1945193
March 22 with very short stops at Ruber, Beulich, Simmern, Windesheim, Pfaffen, Schweidingen, Wolfsheim and Neider Saulheim, we reached the Rhine on March 22nd at Dalheim. By that time, the Third and Seventh Army had linked up and trapped a whole German Army. German soldiers walked down the streets asking to be taken Prisoners of war.
Thursday – 22nd March 1945194
Without pausing to catch a second breath the Third Army put its 5th Infantry and 4th and 6th Armored Division across the Rhine at Oppehheim with the 244th firing support for the crossing.
Thursday – 22nd March 1945195
0505 – XII Corps Survey Control dated 21 March 1945 received from 410th F.A. Group.
0930 – Battalion given close station march order preparatory for move to new positions
at Dalheim.
1130 – Battalion closed in new position at Dalheim.
1145 – CP and FDC opened at new location.
1200 – Wire communication established with firing batteries.
1545 – Battalion Commander and Battalion Exec left for OP.
1730 – Battalion Commander and Battalion Exec returned to Battalion C.P.
0001 – 2400 – “B” Battery registered, and “A” and “C” Batteries registered on Check Point.
Checked 1 round from new-firing pieces on town and on Cross Road with
excellent results.
Thursday – 22nd March 1945196
Thursday – 22nd March 1945197
The Battalion departed Neider-Saulheim Germany.
Thursday – 22nd March 1945198
Arrived Dalheim
Completed 35th mission today going to Sankt Johann, Wolfsheim and Niedesauhheim for Air Medal.
Mommenheim, Selzen, Köngernheim, Dexheim
19th February to 22nd March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section V Award of Air Medal
FERDERICK A. PRIEWERT, 01185195, 2nd Lt., Field Artillery, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United States distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over Germany during the period 19 February 1944 to 22 March 1945. While serving as artillery Air Observer Lt. Priewert distinguished himself by outstanding service in flying 35 sorties near or over enemy lines for the purpose conducting fire missions against enemy installations. The meritorious achievement of Lt. Priewert and the outstanding performance of his missions during the period mentioned contributed to the success of the operations. Entered military service from Wisconsin. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section V Award of Air Medal, Page 12 and 13
Thursday – 22nd March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report199
Daliheim, Germany wM4036
Alexander, Charles H. 44 031 717 Pvt. Code A3
Bentley, Henry J. 37 646 417 Pvt. Code A3
Bourgeois, Leland H., Sr 32 618 246 Pvt. Code A3
Joachim, Robert S. 12 233 179 Pvt. Code A3
Kafka, Myron J. 12 288 724 Pvt. Code A3
Moosey, Josech P. 31 433 299 Pvt. Code A3
Slaughter, Clarence W. 37 644 065 Pvt. Code A3
Above 7 white EM asgd and jd from atchd
Unasgd GRFC Det 48 par 2, SO #75, Hq. 48th
Reinf Bn, APO 873.
Departed Neider-Sauheim, Germany wM2942
1110 via Motor Convoy. Arr present Sta1210. Distance marched 8 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Thursday – 22nd March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report200
Dalheim, Germany wM4036
Departed Neider-Salheim, Germany wM2942 at
1130 via Motor Convoy arrived present Sta
at 1230 Distance marched 10 miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Pritchett, Leslie W. 42 128 060 Pfc. MOS 660 Code A3
Rasey, Loyde R. 35 240 536 Pvt. MOS 641 Code A3
Rice, Richard T. 42 138 541 Pvt. MOS 802 Code A3
Seidman, Louis H. 36 668 624 Pvt. MOS 802 Code A3
Sells, Wayne L. 37 751 067 Pvt. MOS 060 Code A3
Campbell, Douglas E. 6 273 106 Pvt. MOS 641 Code A3
Irvin, Ralph W. 37 646 190 Pvt. MOS 844 Code A3
Malay, Frank L. 33 921 954 Pvt. MOS 802 Code A3
Michaels, Thomas G., Jr. 42 094 939 Pvt. MOS 641 Code A3
Above 9 White EM asgd & jd from atchd
unasgd Hq 48th Reinf Bn per par 7, SO #18
Hq 244th FA Bn
Callahan, Raymon W., Jr (FA) 01 556 732 2nd Lt. MOS 1193 Code A3
Asgd & jd from atchd unasgd Hq 48 Reinf Bn
per par 4, SO #18 Hq 244th FA Bn Princ dy
0600 – Motor 0 Race W
Ellis, Robert E. 34 248 808 Pfc. MOS 641 Code AA
Gorman, Rovert J. 39 132 288 Pfc. MOS 645 Code AA
Yot, Lai J. 32 632 331 Pfc. MOS 531 Code AA
Above 3 White EM reasgn & rejd from atchd
Unasgd Hq 48th Reinf Bn per par 8, SO #18
Hq 244th FA Bn
Thursday – 22nd March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report201
Dalheim, Germany wM4037
Cawood, Robert L 38 731 927 Pvt. Code A3
Coble, Robert A. 34 932 913 Pvt. Code A3
Dwulet, Harry F. Jr. 33 234 018 Pvt. Code A3
Hrynewich, John 33 923 967 Pvt. Code A3
Hull, Loren W. 38 731 920 Pvt. Code A3
Hunter, James H. 35 782 695 Pvt. Code A3
Jones, Dean W. 37 646 141 Pvt. Code A3
MacDuffee, Harry G. 42 146 432 Pvt. Code A3
Noel, John D. 35 929 103 Pvt. Code A3
Repage, Santo M. 42 138 480 Pvt. Code A3
Rice, Thomas O. Jr. 35 849 597 Pvt. Code A3
Rubin, Abraham I. 33 875 970 Pvt. Code A3
Schwartz, Robert J. 36 972 648 Pvt. Code A3
Above 13 EM asgd & jd from atchd
unasgd Hq. 48th Reinf Bn. per par 7, SO #18, hw. 244th FA Bn. Race W
CORRECTION (21 Mar 45)
Bishop, Robert H. 20 140 539 Sgt.
Dy to sk in 315 med Bn LD undetermined
SHOULD BE
Bishop, Robert H. 20 140 539 Sgt. Code J4A
Sk in 315th Med Bn NLD AR 35-1440 to
lost to 59th Field Hosp. Non-battle
loss. Dy 539
Grant, Robert N. 33 542 975 Pfc. Code J4A
Sk in 46th Clearing co LD to lost
To 65th Evac Hosp. Non-battle loss.
Battle fatigue. As of 20 March 45
Dy 531
Jones, Dean W. 37 646 141 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 5th Clearing Co LD.
CORRECTION (21 Mar 45)
Whitley, Clifford 6 973 412 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 5th Med Bn LD undetermined
SHOULD BE
Whitley, Clifford 6 973 412 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 5th Med Bn NLD AR 35-1440
Departed Neider-Saulheim, Germany 1130
Via Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta
1240. Distance marched approximately
10 miles.
The sign reads Oppenheim
Thursday – 22nd March 1945
Repage, Santo M. 42 138 480, Pvt. asgd & jd from atchd unasgd Hq. 48th Reinf Bn. per par 7. He joins “B” Battery having completed the Enlisted Artillery Mechanics’ Course, Class No. 54 on 13th January 1945 at the Field Artillery School, Fort Sill Oklahoma.
Thursday – 22nd March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report202
Dalheim Germany ¼ Mi N wM4038
Coony, Edmound P (FA) 0 556 728 2nd Lt. Code A3
Asgd & jd from atchd unasgn 48th Rein-
forcement Bn per par 4, SO 318 Hq 244th FA
Bn Princ dy ASSt Recon 0 1183 Race W
Pritz, Maurice W 36 912 553 Pvt. Code A3
Howard, Leonard J. 38 731 974 Pvt. Code A3
Hunter, Edgar R. 33 925 317 Pvt. Code A3
Ingison, Donald R. 42 098 444 Pvt. Code A3
McCoy, Paul M. 15 361 772 Pvt. Code A3
McNally, William J. Jr. 31 472 447 Pvt. Code A3
Ostrochuski, Joseph E. 42 073 555 Pvt. Code A3
Riemenschneider, Albert F. 33 922 350 Pvt. Code A3
Ross, Bernard 42 074 308 Pvt. Code A3
Above 9 EM trfd in gr from atchd unasgd
48th Reinforcement Bn asgd & jd per par
7, SO #18 Hq 244th FA Bn Race W
Howard, John J. 39 039 245 Cpl. MOS 505 Code AA
Reasgd & rejd from atchd unasgd 48th
Reinforcement Bn per par 8, SO #18 Hq 244th
FA Bn Race W
Thursday – 22nd March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report203
Dalheim Germany ¼ mi N wM4038
Departed Neider-Saulheim Germany via
motor convoy at 1130 arr present Sta
1230 distance marched approximately 10
Miles
Thursday – 22nd March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report204
Kongerenheim, Germany wM3638
Brown, Paul T.l 36 060 434 Sgt. Code A3
Hart, Edwin Charles II, 39 416 399 Sgt Code A3
Feutz, Benjamin Joseph 35 603 758 Cpl. Code A3
Above 3 white men trfd to this organization
Per par 2, S) #75, Hq., 48th Reinforcement
Bn., APO 873. Asgd and jd.
Breun, Clifford Raymond 35 125 704 T/Sgt. MOS821 Code A3
Trfd to this organization per par 1, S) #75,
Hq., 48th Reinforcement Bn., APO 873. Asgd
nd jd. Race (White)
Departed Pfaffen-Schwabenheim, Germany
wM1539 via Motor Convoy 1530. Arrived
present Station 1700. Distance marched
approximately 14 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Thursday – 22nd March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report205
Dalheim, Germany wM4036
Departed Neider-Saulheim, Germany wM2942
1100 via Motor Convoy. Arrived present St
1200. Distance marched 8 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Caption reads – Just before crossing the Rhine River.
PFC Felix Menendez, left of center with hands in his pocket. Alpha Battery
Friday – 23rd March 1945206
In a special order to officers and men of Third U.S. Army and XIX Tactical Air Command, the Army Commander announced the first Third U.S. Army bridgehead of the Rhine River order stated:
“In the period from January 29 to March 22, 1945, you have wrested 6,484 square miles of territory from the enemy. You have taken 3,072 cities, towns, and villages, including among the former: Trier, Koblenz, Bingen, Worms, Mainz, Kaiserslautern and Ludwigshafen.
“You have captured 140,112 enemy soldiers, and have killed or wounded an additional 99,000, thereby eliminating practically all of the German 7th and 1st Armies. History records no greater achievement in so limited time.
This great campaign was only made possible by your disciplined valor, unswerving devotion to duty, coupled with the unparalleled audacity and speed of your advance on the ground, while from the air, the peerless fighter-bombers kept up a relentless round-the-clock attack upon the disorganized enemy.
The world rings with your praises; better still, General Montgomery, General Eisenhower, and General Bradley have all personally commended you. The highest honor I have ever attained is that of having my name coupled with yours in these great events.
“Please accept my heartfelt admiration and thanks for what you have done and remember that your assault crossing over the Rhine at 2200 hours last night assures you of even greater glory to come.
Utilizing assault rafts and attacking across the Rhine River without benefit of aerial bombardment or artillery preparation, the 5th Infantry Division quickly exploited its bridgehead. The crossing made during the night 22 – 23 March was pushed to a depth of six miles and a width of seven miles by the end of the period with the help of artillery fires on targets of opportunity. Some amphibious tanks of the 748th Tank Battalion went across with the first wave of infantry. Twenty-four hours after the 5th Infantry Division’s assault crossing of the Rhine, the Luftwaffe struck furiously in an attempt to wipe out the bridgehead.
Both heavy and light antiaircraft which had been set up quickly on the bridgehead were ready for the attack. Of 154 raiding aircraft, eighteen were shot down and fifteen more were probably destroyed. Two additional planes were shot down by XX Corps antiaircraft gunners when attacks were made against the 12th Armored Division and field artillery battalions.
Attacking from Oppenheim (M45), the infantrymen encountered little resistance, and had cleared Dornheim (M54) and Asteheim (M44) within twenty-four hours. A heavy pontoon bridge and a tread-way bridge were completed within thirty-six hours of the initial crossing. Driving into the bridgehead, the 357th and 359th Infantry Regiments (90th Infantry Division) assumed control of the southern half of the bridgehead, while the 358th Infantry assembled preparatory to crossing, after having completely cleared Mainz (M35). Combat Command “A” (4th Armored Di’vision) crossed into the bridgehead and attacked through the infantry at the close of the period, while Combat Command “B” assembled preparatory to crossing. Relieving elements of the 4th Armored Division along the Rhine River north of Worms (M41), the 11th Armored Division patrolled aggressively. The 26th Infantry Division and 6th Armored Division passed to corps control during the period. Moving north, the 6th Armored Division went into an assembly area, while the 26th Infantry Division utilized the 328th Infantry in patrolling around Mainz (M35).
Because of the heavy demand by combat troops for “K”-type rations these units were issued 100 percent operational-type rations, while noncombat units were limited to 25 percent and hospitals to 50 percent.
The Rhein River, looking North, down stream from the West bank of the river, Oppenheim Germany. In this photo you can see the the bridge destroyed by the Germans as they retreated, the construction of the pontoon bridge, and between the two bridges, where the white buildings are, is the location of the future President Roosevelt bridge. This photo and the following photo were taken in about the same location here.
The Rhine River, looking South, upstream from the West bank of the river Oppenheim Germany. This photo and the one above were taken from about the same location here.
The pontoon bridge on the Rhine River, Oppenheim Germany. Photo is taken from the West bank looking East, showing the center platform used to anchor each end of the bridge at the center.
The pontoon bridge on the Rhine River, looking from the East bank to the West bank, showing the center platform.
Friday – 23rd March 1945207
0645 – XII Corps Survey Control received from 410th Field Artillery Group dated 22nd
March 1945. Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
1000 – Colonel Day, 410th Field Artillery Group Commander, at Battalion FDC.
1015 – Battalion Commander left with Colonel Day for OP.
1145 – Battalion Exec left for Paris to attend I & E School. Major Humphrey assumed
additional duties as Battalion Exec.
1205 – Group Commander and Battalion Commander returned to Battalion CP from OP.
1245 – Group Commander left Battalion CP.
1816 – XII Corps Survey Controls date 22nd March 1945 receive from 410th Field Artillery
Group. Forwarded to Assistant S-2.
0001 – 2400 – Registered all 3 batteries on Check Point 2; Registered “C” Battery on Check
Point 3. Checked Transfers. Fired 3 TOT’s on troops. Fired 10 other
missions, on enemy batteries, counter-attack, AA positions and towns. One
mission on AA was adjusted by high performance aircraft.
Friday – 23rd March 1945208
Dalheim Germany, Saulheim Germany, Köngernheim Germany, Selzen Germany, Mommenheim Germany.
Transferred to and departed for Hq Battery this BN per par 5, SO#18 Hq 244th FA Bn.
1st March to 23rd March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star
JOHN J. DAVIS, 018530, Lt. Col., Field Artillery, 244th FA Bn., Who while serving with the Army of the United States distinguished himself by meritorious service during the period 1 March 45 to 23 March 45 in Germany, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States. In addition to the Bronze Star Medal previously awarded, a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Bronze Star Medal is awarded. Entered military service from Texas. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 26, APO 312, U.S. Army, 5 April 1945, Section II, Award of Oak Leaf Cluster to Bronze Star, Page 2
Friday – 23rd March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report209
Dalheim, Germany wM4036
Priewert, Frederick A. (FA) 01 185 195 2nd Lt. MOS 1183 Code J1
Trfd to & departed for Hq Btry this Bn per
par 5, SO#18 Hq 244th FA Bn
Sheerin, Vincent J. 39 123 513 Cpl.
Dy to sk in 5th Clr Co LD Shrapnel Wound
Leg Battle Casualty Dy 645
King, Bernard B. 34 248 724 S/Sgt. Code 11-3
Rd to Gr of Pvt per par 9, SO #18 Hq 244th FA Bn
Friday – 23rd March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report210
Dalheim, Germany wM4037
Shinaberry, Jacob W. 01 172 654 1st Lt.
Slightly wounded in action. Bomb
wounds (Aerial) Sole of right foot.
Remained on duty.
CORRECTION (10 Mar 45)
Mathis, Jasper A. 34 338 540 Cpl.
Dy to accidentally killed motor
vehicle wreck in line of dy. Non-
battle casualty.
SHOULD BE
Mathis, Jasper A. 34 338 540 Cpl.
Dy to killed in action LD.
Friday – 23rd March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report211
Saturday – 24th March 1945212
Breaking out of XII Corps bridgehead, Combat Command “A” and “B” (4th Armored Division) passed through the 5th and 90th Infantry Divisions and gained up to twenty miles. Combat Command “A” passed through numerous towns, reaching Zimmern (M64) while Combat Command “B” drove to Kleestadt (M84). Meanwhile, the 5th Infantry Division continued its attack to enlarge the bridgehead in the north and east against limited resistance, clearing Bauscheim (M45), Russelsheim (M55) and Gross-Gerau (M54). Just to the south, the 90th Infantry Division continued its attack to the east, gaining more than five miles and taking Buttelborn (M54), Worfelden (M54), Goddelau (M53), Schneppenhausen (M64), Grafenhausen (M64) and Griesheim (M54), while some elements were attacking the large industrial city of Darmstadt (M54) at the end of the period. The combined 5th and 9th Infantry Division bridgehead was enlarged to a depth of nine miles and a width at ten miles. The 104th Infantry (26th Infantry Division), attached to the 4th Armored Division, crossed into the bridgehead and prepared to pass through the 9th Infantry Division in mopping up operations behind the armor. Other element of the 26th Infantry Division pulled up to the Rhine River with the 101st Infantry crossing into the bridgehead late in the period. After coming from Seventh U.S. Army to XX Corps, 6th Armored Division passed to control of XII Corps. Crossing into the bridgehead area, Combat Command “B” (6th Armored Division) advanced through infantry elements at the end of the period. A floating tread-way bridge across the Rhine River was completed in the lower part of the Corps zone. The northern part of the zone was being patrolled throughout the period by the 2nd Cavalry Group and the 328th Infantry (26th Infantry Division).
General Patton relieving himself in the Rhine. “I drove to the Rhine River and went across on the pontoon bridge. I stopped in the middle to take a piss and then picked up some dirt on the far side to emulate William the Conqueror.” Later that day Patton sent a communiqué to General Eisenhower. “Dear SHAEF, I have just pissed into the Rhine River. For God’s sake, send some gasoline.”
Saturday – 24th March 1945213
Saturday – 24th March 1945214
0805 – XII Corps Survey Control dated 23rd March 1945 received from 410th F.A. Group
and forwarded to Assistant S-2.
1030 – Meeting of firing battery CO’s was called at the request of the Battalion Commander,
who gave them information regarding movement of Gun Batteries.
1046 – Battalion commander left CP with Battery Commanders and party for reconnaissance
in the vicinity of Dalheim at (wM4238)
1400 – Battalion given orders to displace by echelon
1430 – “A” Battery given orders to close station march order. Battery “C” and “C” to follow
when “A” was in position.
1610 – “A” Battery move to new position at Dalheim (wM429138770)
1720 – “A” Battery in position and registered.
1736 – “B” Battery and “C” Battery moved to new positions. “B” located at
(wM4275337885); “C” Battery located at (wM4276938038); FDC Battery
did not move.
1820 – Baker Battery reported ready to fire.
1935 – Charlie Battery reported ready to fire.
0001 – 2400 – Registered “B” and checked “A” on check point #3. Fired 2 TOT on town;
fired two adjusted missions, one on enemy Battery.
Dexheim Germany – within yards of Rhine, 5th crossed at 10PM
Saturday – 24th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report216
Dalheim, Germany wM4036
Foster, Lee R. 34 359 143 Pvt. Code J1
Maulkey, Willis C. 6 551 567 Pvt. Code J1
Above two EM trfd to and departed for Btry
this Bn par 1, Memo #1, Hq, 244th FA Bn.
Major, Harold W. 20 130 733 Pvt. Code A1
Asgd and jd from Btry C this Bn, par 1, Memo
#1, Hq, 244th FA Bn. Race White
No limited assignment personnel
Saturday – 24th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report217
Dexheim, Germany wM4138
Sheerin, Vincent J. 38123 513 Cpl. Code M4
Sk in 5th Clr Co LD Shrapnel wound Leg
Battle Casualty to lost to Hosp unknown
Dy 645
Pope, Robert A. 34 190 653 S/Sgt.
Dy to sk in 5th Clr Co LD Disease Non-
Battle Dy 821
Adams, Virgil L. 34 249 550 Pfc. Code 11-8
Grimsley, Frank L. 34 248 670 Code 11-8
Above 2 EM rd to gr Pvt per SO #9 this Btry
Departed Dalheim, Germany wM4036 via Motor
Convoy at 1650 arrived present Sta at 1715
Distance marched 3 miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 24th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report218
Dexheim, Germany wM4138
Harvey, Robert K. 33 301 272 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 5th Coll. Co LD Battle
Casualty.
Piscitelli, Joseph J. 31 471 561 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 5th Coll. Co LD.
Departed Dalheim, Germany 1805. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta 1830.
Distance marched approximately 1 mile.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 24th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report219
Dienheim Germany 1 mi W wM4338
Major, Harold W. 20 139 733 Pfc. Code J1
Trfd I gr to Hq Btry this Bn per par 1,
Memo 1 hq 244th FA Bn departed
Foster, Lee R. 34 339 143 Pvt. MOS 645 Code A1
Mulkey, Eillie C. 6 551 567 Pvt. MOS 747 Code A1
Above 2 EM trfd in gr fro Hq Btry this
Bn per par 1, Memo 1, Hq 244th FA Bn asgd
& jd Race W
Riemenschneider, Albert F. 35 922 550 Pvt.
Dy to sk 5th Clearing Co LD “Non-battle”
(Disease) “Dy 531”
Departed Dalheim Germany ¼ mi N at 1700
via motor convoy arr present Sta 1800
distance marched approximately 5 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Saturday – 24th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report220
Kongernheim, Germany wM3638
Newsom, Allen D. 34 249 085 Tec. 4 MOS 660 Code J1
Trfd in gr to Hq. 731st FA Bn., per par 10,
SO #18, Hq., 244th FA Bn.
No limited assignment personnel
Sunday – 25th March 1945221
The rapid advance of the 4th Armored Division in the XII Corps zone continued for thirty-five miles. Both Combat Command “A” and “B” bypassed Darmstadt (M64) and Combat Command “A” captured a bridge intact over the Main River near Grossauheim (M86), repulsing several small enemy air attacks aimed at the bridgehead. Combat Command “B” captured a railroad bridge intact over the same river at Aschaffenburg (N05). Enemy aircraft were very active over both these bridgeheads. The 104th Infantry (26th Infantry Division) was released from and the 328th Infantry (26th Infantry Division) was attached to the 4th Armored Division. Upon relief, the 104th Infantry assumed blocking positions to the south along a general line Stockstadt (M54) Eberstadt (M63). Meanwhile, the 101st Infantry (26th Infantry Division) crossed into the bridgehead near Darmstadt (M64). Capturing Gustavsburg (M4) and Bischofeheim (M45), the 5th Infantry Division continued its attack to the north, while clearing territory up to the Main River. In a lone to the west, the 90th Infantry Division drove northeast six miles with the 358th and 359th Infantry Regiments, clearing the important of Darmstadt (M64), capturing Griesheim (M64), Grafenhausen (M64), Worfelden (M54) and Langen (M65). Continuing its advance to the northeast, the 6th Armored Division captured Raunheim (M55) and Kelsterbach (M64). The 16th Cavalry Group (XX Corps) relieved the 2nd Cavalry Group in its position along the west bank of the Rhine River. By the end of the period the 2nd Cavalry Group had also been relieved of attachment to the 26th Infantry Division and was crossing into the bridgehead area.
Sunday – 25th March 1945222
On the 25th of March the Battalion moved through the Rhine River smoke screen with one eye on the unfamiliar uniforms and crafts of the U.S. Navy and the other eye cocked skyward looking for the very active enemy air corps. The Battalion crossed the pontoon bridge without incident but in the evening at Berkach we were made aware of the war by enemy planes attacking the bridge, giving us a mild reminder of Avranches.
Sunday – 25th March 1945223
0609 – “B” Battery reported that ten (10) or twelve (12) A/P bombs were dropped by
enemy planes in front of No. four (4) piece and no damage occurred.
0740 – Battalion Commander left for Battalion air strip, and then proceeded by plane
across Rheine River where he was to report to 410th F.A. Group Commander.
0850 – Close station march order given all batteries, and reconnaissance parties given
instructions to proceed forward.
1430 – Battalion less Service and Personnel (rear Echelon) departed Dalheim, Germany,
and crossed Rhine to New positions in vicinity of Berkach.
1730 – Battalion (less rear Echelon) arrive at new positions at Berkach; “B” Battery
(wM530439); “C” Battery (wM533435).
Sunday – 25th March 1945224
Looking North, downstream, the President Roosevelt Memorial bridge crosses the Rhine River. You can see the pontoon bridge downstream and beneath the Memorial bridge. This photo was taken about here, Oppenheim Germany
Approach to the second 1301st Engineer Rhine bridge looking upstream and south from the east bank. In the background is the destroyed bridge
Approaching the President Roosevelt Memorial Bridge. The second Rhine River-bridge, Oppenheim.
Looking East as the 244th Crossing the Memorial bridge looking West
Looking West as the 244th crosses into Germany over the Memorial bridge
Looking North, downstream, on the President Roosevelt Bridge over the Rhine River, Oppenheim Germany, You can see the bridge destroyed by the German Army in their retreat to the Eastern side of the river.
Looking South, upstream, on the President Roosevelt Bridge over the Rhine River, Oppenheim Germany
Sunday – 25th March 1945225
The Battalion departed Dalheim Germany. Rhine Crossing
Sunday – 25th March 1945226
The Battalion arrived Berkach Germany.
Sunday – 25th March 1945227
Departed Dalheim Germany. Crossed Rhyne at Oppenheim; time 1724 hours, 86 pontons in bridge. Berkach
Sunday – 25th March 1945228
Sunday – 25th March 1945229
Byron G. Rogers, A Battery
On March 25, 1945, the 244th Battalion moved through the Rhine River smoke screen with caution, as the enemy had planes flying in the area. We crossed the pontoon bridges without incident, but later that night at Berkach we were again made aware of the war by enemy planes attacking the bridges. My cat and gun crew were the first to cross at that particular bridge. Whitey, one of my gun crew, climbed to the top of the cat, saying if the cat sunk, he would be closer to the top than anyone else. He reminded me of that at one of our 244th Battalion reunions.
The breakthrough onto the Frankfurt plains found the Germans were not very organized and did not realize we were close behind them. During this battle, firing was so rapid that we were forced to capture and clear towns for our own safety. The woods were full of Krauts, (Germans), and our daily patrols always returned with a large number of POW’s. It was here that one of our officers was killed, and a German plane fired on my cat, hitting it with a rocket, and knocking the wench and the brakes out. I climbed up on the 50 Caliber machine gun located on top of the cat and shot the plane down. The pilot was ejected out, but my shot had killed him, as he was unable to pull his parachute cord. He landed on top of an old building and crashed thru the top. It was a German officer, carrying a pearl handled pistol, and a gold watch. I took both items, as I thought that might be adequate pay for destroying my cat. The pistol was later stolen from my brother back home, but I still have the watch.
We moved daily, and I had to drive my cat without brakes. I had to use the manual sticks and could not pull my gun. A good buddy took his cat and pulled my big gun, and I pulled an ammunition trailer.
Sunday – 25th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report230
Sunday – 25th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report231
Sunday – 25th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report232
Berkach, Germany wM5344
Jones, Dean W. 37 646 141 Pvt. Code J4A
Sk in 5th Clearing Co LD to lost to
65th Field Hosp. Non-battle loss.
(Disease) As of 23 Mar 45. Dy 228
Whitley, Clifford 6 975 412 Pvt. Code J4A
Sk in 5th Med Bn NLD AR 35-1440 to
lost to 107th Evac Hosp. Non-battle
loss. (Disease) As of 23 Mar 45.
Dy 606
Departed Dexheim, Germany 1330. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta 1800.
Distance marched approximately 14 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Sunday – 25th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report233
Sunday – 25th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report234
Dear Folks,
I’ve left the war a couple of hundred miles away. You see, I’m at the Corps, rest camp in
Luxembourg. It’s a real treat not to carry a gun or to worry about Jerry planes, of which we have been seeing lots of. Our departure yesterday morning was broken by a bombing and hail of AA fire from around our gun positions near the river. We have been drinking the best wines and champagnes – the German stuff is far better than the French. I will write you a long letter this evening, my love to one and all. Your second package of salami & mustard came – thanks loads.
Tom
Monday – 26th March 1945235
Capturing intact the Frankfurt (M67) railroad bridge over the Main River, troops of Third U.S. Army entered that important manufacturing city. Only three enemy aircraft appeared over XII Corps zone, one of which was destroyed, and one probably destroyed. German Luftwaffe plane losses, combined with the overrunning of many enemy fighter fields by the Army’s advance had reduced the air threat to the bridgehead, which at this time was securely held.
XII Corps (5th, 26th and 90th Infantry Divisions, 4th and 6th Armored Divisions and attached troops) was to continue its current mission of clearing to the Rhine River in zone and was to cross the Main River and continue the advance to the northeast. XII Corps was to pass one regimental combat team from XX Corps through the zone and assist this combat team in an assault crossing of the Main River east of Mainz (M35), supporting the crossing of the combat team by fire on call from XI Corps and protect the right flank of XI Corps in the seizure of the bridgehead.
All major units of XII Corps were well beyond the Rhine River during the period. The leading spearheads continued to be furnished by Combat Commands “A” and “B” (4th Armored Division). Combat Command “B” bypassed Aschaffenburg (N05) and enlarged its bridgehead over the Main River at that point to a depth of six miles, while Combat Command “A” (supported by the attached 328th Infantry) enlarged its bridgehead over the Main River near Grossauheim (M86) to a depth of four miles. Following closely behind the 4th Armored Division was the 26th Infantry Division (less 328th Infantry). Elements of the 101st Infantry moved into the Grossauheim (M86) bridgehead, after clearing Offenthal (M75), Urberath (M75), Oberroden (M75), while elements of the 104th Infantry relieved Combat Command “B” at Aschaffenburg (N05). Continuing to attack to the northeast, the 358th and 359th Infantry Regiments (90th Infantry Division) captured Heusenstamm (M76), Langen (M65) and Bierer (M76) and reached the Main River east of Frankfurt (M67). To the west, the 6th Armored Division captured a damaged railroad bridge on the Main River and pushed foot elements across the river into the once great industrial city of Frankfurt (M67). Other elements of the 6th Armored Division captured Schwanheim (M66), Kelsterbach (M56), Raunheim (M55), Sachsenhausen (M66), Offenbach (M76) and Niederred (M66). Early crossing operations were hampered by heavy enemy artillery fire, which soon abated. Then the 10th and 11th Infantry Regiments (5th Infantry Division) pushed north, crossed the Main River and entered Frankfurt (M67). Enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire was heavy but enemy troops were almost entirely without artillery support. Artillery with XII Corps fired extensively in support of the action and fired upon the telephone exchange and the main power plant at the request of the 6th Armored Division. The 2nd infantry assembled at the crossing site south of the city, after being relieved by the 2nd Cavalry Group of the zone along the Main River just east of the Rhine River.
Monday – 26th March 1945236
0800 – Received XII Corps Survey Control from 410th F.A. Group dated 25th March 1945.
0830 – Battalion Commander left Command Post for conference with Group Commander,
and then left on reconnaissance for new positions in vicinity of Erzhausen Germany.
0920 – Battalion Commander called Battalion Exec by radio, and gave instructions to close,
march order and stand by for further instructions.
1050 – Battalion given orders to move to new position in vicinity of Erzhausen.
1300 – Closed at new positions at Erzhausen. CP located at coordinates (wM652508); “A”
Battery (wM649505); “B” Battery (wM645512); “C” Battery (wM654508).
1445 – Close Station March order and stand by for further instructions given by Battalion
Commander who then went forward with Battery Commanders and party on
reconnaissance for new positions in vicinity of Offenthal.
1545 – Battalion left for new positions at Offenthal, order of march “B”; Hq.; “A” & “C”.
1700 – Battalion closed at New Position at Offenthal.
Monday – 26th March 1945237
The Breakthrough onto the Frankfort Planes found the enemy very disorganized and the Battalion, following closely first the 6th, then the 4th and then the 11th Armored Division moved first and often to Erzhausen, Offenthal, then across the Mainz River to Lammerspiel. Here the action was so rapid that the Battalion was forced to capture and clear towns for our own security. Successive days found us at Bruchkobel, Neidergrundau, Burgbracht and Hauswurz.
Monday – 26th March 1945238
The Battalion departed Berkach Germany.
Monday – 26th March 1945239
Monday – 26th March 1945240
The Battalion arrived Erzhausen Germany.
Monday – 26th March 1945241
The Battalion departed Erzhausen Germany.
Monday – 26th March 1945242
The Battalion arrived Offenthal Germany.
Monday – 26th March 1945243
Berkach, Büttelborn, Braunshardt, Gräfenhausen, to Erzhausen.
Captured 8 krauts at Walldorf
Monday – 26th March 1945244
Years after World War II, children continued to play on the tank
that failed to cross the bridge as the Germans retreated245
This is a photo of a German Jagdpanzer VI Sd.Kfz.186 (Jagdtiger) that failed to cross the bridge. A heavy tank destroyer that was developed as a modification of the Tiger II. The Jagdpanzer VL fired a 12.8 cm KwK L / 55 (128 mm) round.
The photo was taken here and this is the story behind this tank shown in this and the next photo.
A second view of the Jagdpanzer VI Sd.Kfz. 186 that failed to cross the bridge with an unidentified 244th man looking it over.
Monday – 26th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report247
Monday – 26th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report248
Monday – 26th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report249
Urberach. Germany wM7553
Departed Berkach, Germany 1115. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived Erzhausen wM6450
at 1310. Distance marched approximately
14 miles. Departed Erzhausen, Germany
1630. Via Motor Convoy. Arrived present
Sta 1730. Distance marched approximately
8 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel.
Monday – 26th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report250
Monday – 26th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report251
Offenthal, Germany wM7253
Departed Berkach, Germany wM5344 1140
via Motor Convoy. Arrived Erzhausen,
Germany wM6550 1255. Distance marched
approximately 11 miles. Departed Erzhau-
sen, Germany wM6550 1650 arrived present
Sta 1730. Distance marched approximately
6 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Dear Family,
With a little thought I’ll try and give you all of the dope from the last few weeks.
The whole deal started when we left the Echtermaek area and crossed the Our River and went near Bitburg. We went in and did a little shooting – then all of a sudden the _th Armored Div. took off and away we went. Bitburg is a large town – but quite beat up now. We fired on it with one gun for 24 hrs. a day for four weeks. This gun was 1000 yards from the front lines. Infantry machine guns and mortars were set up behind us. The Battalion was at Cornsdorf – where we could hit Bitburg and Trier. One night we pounded in on Trier. They were shooting rockets into a large town here in Lux and we were called in to fire 8 volleys for every rocket. We put out a couple of hundred rounds in 2 hours – then they caught on and quit.
We got so used to going into position with the dough’s that we even learned how to duck real fast (Biesdorf). The front was just like Patton’s France – very fluid – no one really knew where we were – we just went like wild fire – quite a thrill. We went on an all-night march to Simmeru – then the front– and took off the next day for Kreuznach where we became part of a new division. We really haven’t done a whole lot of firing – oh yes – one day – bright sunshine – the Cubs caught Jerry in the open and we just mowed’emdown. Fired and fired for a couple of hours. The men loved it!! (these days are all mixed up – it happened two fast and we were so bushed that it all didn’t make much of an impression). We moved again to ___ and it fell without a yelp -. Jerry plans then started to come over. Foxholes were a dime a dozen. We all had em. We were never bothered. The country is ideal. Flat – few hills – very few forests – good for tanks. The white and red wine is like champagne, the champagne like honey-water. There are hundreds of cases of the stuff in almost every house. So you see we lack nothing in the way of food and drink. The men must think there is going to be a shortage ‘cause they all drink it fast and furiously – they are drunk sick and sorry. We are living in the field now. It’s easier and quicker – we hardly get settled in a house when off we go.
I have had the GI’s again – but good. I was miserable – all I did was get up – dig a little hole – then go back to bed. Up and down – I felt like a rubber band. Soloman finally got me cemented up so I’m holding my own. Guess that was one of the reasons I got to come here to the rest camp. We left the Battalion area at 0605 during an aircraft attack on our river crossing and arrived here – 150 miles away at 1230. We registered – were taken down stairs, (this was a large, modern (inside plumbing) school and given a new shirt, pants, six underwear, clean towel, 4 packs cigs, 2 gum 2 candy bars, new sweater, and a marvelous hot shower, free haircut & shave, took our pistols and carbines away from us for a cleaning & check, and then a big dinner served by cute Luxembourg girls. A nice bed in an officer’s private (Wow!!) house. They have good, new movies, dances, USO shows all the Cokes and candy you want to drink and eat. The town is nice and clean – English is spoken by almost all (cuss words by little kids).
I have received a Cluster to my Air Medal – for the same thing 35 sorties. This is not the surprise!! I am not a Capt. yet nor do I know if the old man will promote me. Time alone will tell.
Doesn’t the war news sounds good. Patton sure is good and has a pretty good Army too! When we arrived here – no one knew what we knew about our thrust – so we shot them the old oil. It was brilliant and caught Jerry with his pants not only down, but off. We are quite proud to be in it. Usually we are in a position where someone else gets all of the credit, but the 244 was there and close too.
All of us here haven’t the slightest idea where our Battalions are and we don’t care. Perhaps I won’t catch up with them till they’re in Berlin. I received a lot (7) letters from you three days ago – I’ll answer your question and tell you their numbers when I go down to the house. It was raining a little while ago, but now the blue sky is showing – so perhaps we’’ have a nice day anyway. Sure good you liked Jane’s picture – it was one of my best – so take care of it for me. I’ll be home soon – some say on our way to SWP.
We’ll send a little money to Bill Mc when I write to him. Who knows maybe I’ll run into him on one of these days in – – – – -. Have been keeping an open eye for Jim Mc, he’s in the Rhine and I’m a little north of the Suar. It will be time for the dinner bell to ring soon, so I’d better leave. My love to you all at home. I sent home $186.30 extra in 2 Mar. 45. Let me know when you get it!!
Your loving
Son.
Tuesday – 27th March 1945252
Rapid gains were made in XII Corps zone by Combat Commands “A” and “B” (4th Armored Division) which jointly attacked to the northeast, gaining positions at Ostheim (M88) and Wegkesheim (M79), approximately twenty miles northeast of Frankfurt (M67). Supporting this advance, the 90th Infantry Division crossed the Main River and captured Bischofsheim (M77), Bruchkobel (M87), Niederdorfelden (M77), Wachenbuchen (M87) and Mittelbuchen (M87) in gains of up to ten miles. The 26th Infantry Division regained control of the 328th Infantry which had been attached to 4th Armored Division. Hanau (M87) was cleared by the 328th Infantry, which then moved east and joined other elements of the division north of Aschaffenburg (N05). The 104th Infantry was relieved by elements of the 45th Infantry Division (Seventh U.S. Army) at Aschaffenburg (N05), and at the close of the period the entire 26th Infantry Division was preparing to attack to the northeast. Fighting inside Frankfurt (M67), the 5th Infantry Division met moderate resistance, but cleared half of the city while three bridges across the Main River near Frankfurt (M67) were completed. Preparing to renew the attack, the 6th Armored Division assembled south of the Main River. Along the south bank of the Main River west of Frankfurt (M67), the 2nd Cavalry Group was patrolling.
Tuesday – 27th March 1945253
0705 – Battery Commanders and Advanced detail met Battalion Commander at CP and then
proceeded on reconnaissance in the vicinity of Hausen & Lämmerspiel,
Germany.
0920 – Battalion less Service and Personnel (rear Echelon) left Offenthal
for new positions, in the vicinity of Lämmerspiel,
Germany.
1105 – Battalion closed in at new positions at Lämmerspiel.
1200 – Communications established with all batteries and with Group Headquarters.
1300 – All firing batteries reported registered.
1400 – Service Battery and Personnel (Rear Echelon) close in new positions at
Obershausen, Germany.
1535 – Colonel Day Group Commander visited FDC for conference with Battalion Commander.
1550 – Group Commander left Battalion.
1630 – Communication established with Service Battery (rear), located at Oberahausen,
Germany which is about two miles from Battalion CP.
0001 – 2400 – Fire H & I mission on Langendiebach, Germany.
Fired mission on Enemy Battery.
Tuesday – 27th March 1945254
The Battalion departed Offenthal Germany.
Tuesday – 27th March 1945255
The Battalion arrived Lämmerspiel Germany.
Tuesday – 27th March 1945256
The Battalion moved to new positions in vicinity of Lämmerspiel, Germany, (wM803667) and registered. No change in mission or assignment. On 28th March the zone of fire of “B” & “C” Batteries was shifted to the north for wide support of the Corps front.
Tuesday – 27th March 1945257
Monday – 27th March 1945258
Lammarspiel Germany
Caption reads – March 1945, Paris France – Place de La Republique – 1st Sgt. Raymond Cormier on leave
Caption reads – March 1945, Paris France – Place De La Republique with Gendarm directing traffic. The Hotel Moderne in the background is now the Crown Plaza
Tuesday – 27th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report259
Lammarspiel, Germany wM8066
Duker, John E., Jr (FA) 0 313 275 Capt.
Dy to temporary dy UK approximately
3 days FOCG XII Corps
Meyer, Milton S. (FA) 01 177 090 2nd Lt.
Assumes command in addition to
other duties
Robinson, Peter A. I., 33 195 974 TEC. 4
Murray, James P. 37 512 238 Cpl.
Vigliotti, Andrew C. 32 633 158 Tec. 5
Above 3 EM dy to fur 11 days
Departed Offenthal wM7253 09:30
via Motor convoy. Arrived present
Sta 11:445. Distance marched 15 mi.
No limited assignment personnel
Tuesday – 27th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report260
Lammarspiel, Germany wM8067
CORRECTION (24 Mar 45)
Sheerin, Vincent J. 39 123 513 Cpl.
Sk in 5th Clr Co LD Shrapnel wound Leg
Battle Causality to lost to Hosp unknown
Dy 645
SHOULD BE
Sheerin, Vincent J. 39 123 513 Cpl.
Sk in 5th Clr Co LD Shrapnel Wound Leg
Battle Causality to lost 110th Evac Hosp
Dy 645
Myers, Warren H. 33 239 431 Cpl.
Staggs, Joe L. 39 693 499 Cpl.
Belog, Frank J. 34 644 922 Tec. 5
Ammons, Frank M, Sr. 34 644 922 Pfc.
Bennett, John B. 34 248 729 Pfc.
Above 5 EM dy to fur 11 days
Departed Offenthal, Germany wM7253 at 0930
via Motor Convoy Arrived present Sta at
1130 Distance marched 14 Miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Tuesday – 27th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report261
Lammerspiel, Germany wM8067
Hieminen, Allan C. 33 292 548 Cpl.
Stover, Nello C. 33 239 437 Tec. 5
Falk, Leonard G. 31 446 190 Pfc.
Fredericks, Rodman P. 42 017 971 Pfc.
Above 5 EM dy to fur 11 days
Departed Urberach, Germany 0935. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta 1130.
Distance marched approximately 15 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Tuesday – 27th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report262
Lammerspiel Germany wM8067
Carpenter, William A. 34 349 928 Sgt.
Segeski, Alexander G. Jr., 35 520 580 Tec. 5
Greenleaf, Charles F. Jr., 31 424 709 Pfc.
Heim, Gordon C. 33 833 905 Pfc.
Lozano, Gordon C. 39 123 585 Pfc.
Above 5 EM dy to fur 11 days
Departed Offenthal Germany ½ mi E via
motor convoy at 0930 arr present Sta at
1130 distance marched approximately 16 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Tuesday – 27th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report263
Ohertshausen, Germany wM7964
Kaminski, Ignatius 836 278 118 Pfc.
Dy to fur 11 days
Departed Kongernheim, Germany wM3638
via Motor Convoy 0725. Arr present Sta
1440. Distance marched approximately
45 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Tuesday – 27th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report264
Lammerspiel, Germany wM8066
Aycock, Henry D. 34 249 660 Tec. 3
Dy to Fur 11 days.
Departed Offenthal, Germany wM7253, 0935
via Motor convoy. Arrived present Sta
1115. Distance marched approximately 15
miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Dear Mon, Dad and Peg,
In just a day this rest will be all a memory. We start up front looking for the Bn and by the way things are going it may take a couple of days to find them. Listening to the war news now – the General must have an ace in the hole – wonder where his drive will end up. Maybe we’ll see “Ivan”. What a deal!! He’s just the kind of a guy to pull that kind of a stunt. Maybe I’ll be able to get another letter off to you before we leave here. Sure hope I have a lot of mail waiting for me when I get back to the Btry. By for now. Tom.
Wednesday – 28th March 1945265
Spearheading the advance of XII Corps to the northeast, Combat Commands “A” and “B” (4th Armored Division) gained up to thirty miles, with Combat Command “A” reaching Engelrod (H12) and Combat Command “B” reaching Lauterbach (H12). Meanwhile, the 359th Infantry (90th Infantry Division) after being motorized, began movement to the northeast to mop up behind the 4th Armored Division. The 357th and 358th Infantry Regiments (90th Infantry Division) maintained positions along the line Bischofsheim (M77) – Mittelbuchen (M87), while completing a heavy pontoon bridge across the Main River near Dornigheim (M77). Blocking positions on the Army south flank were maintained by the 26th Infantry Division. The 2nd Cavalry Group assembled in the vicinity of Babenhausen (M85).
Wednesday – 28th March 1945266
0745 – Receive XII Corps Survey Control from 410th F.A. Group dated 27th March 1945.
1135 – Colonel Baker, 33rd F.A. Brigade, called on Battalion Commander at Battalion CP.
1455 – Major Humphrey, acting Battalion Exec left CP to inspect batteries.
1830 – Major Humphrey, returned to CP after inspecting batteries.
0001 – 2400 – Made morning registration: move two batteries to lay on new Azimuth and
registered one of them in afternoon. Made two registrations. Adjusted fire
on two groups of riflemen who disclosed their position by firing at plane.
Two rifle hits in plane with no damage caused.
Wednesday – 28th March 1945267
Crossed the Main river at Frankfurt to Bruchkobeln with with 11th Armored
Wednesday – 28th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report268
Lammerspiel, Germany wM8067
Wilson, Sherman G. 34 249 246 Sgt.
Rankin, Link C. 34 248 768 Tec. 4
Rice, Thomas O. Jr. 35 849 597 Pvt.
Above 3 EM dy to sk in 315 Collecting
Co LD “Non-battle” (Disease)
Wantke, Edward A. 32 144 311 Pfc.
Dy to sk in qrs LD
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Wednesday – 28th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report269
Lammerspiel Germany wM8067
Yerkes, Samuel J. Jr., 13 153 117 Cpl. MOS 228 Code J4A
Sk LD 315 Collecting Co to Lost to 16th
Field Hosp sk LD “Non-battle loss”
(Disease) “Dy 288” as of 14 Mar 45
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Dear Family,
Haven’t gotten any of Dad’s letters but your #99, 103, 105,106, 107, 108 came a day or so ahead of my rest time. It’s good to know you all are so well and that the boys are so cute. I know Peg will miss Don terribly, but the thing that makes it easier is that he’s been gone for long periods before. His mail service will probably be worse than mine so there is no need to “sweat him out” just be the same as always. I’ll see him real soon anyway. Soon as we lick the Jerries’ we’ll get a crack at the Japs. I’ll write to Bill Mc soon and send him the money he wants. I can’t get any British money but will send him French, Belgium, Luxembourg, German. Will write again soon. Love Tom.
Thursday – 29th March 1945270
Letter of Instructions Number Nineteen, dated 28 March 1945, was received Twelfth U.S. Army Group. It conveyed in part the following information and orders:
Third U.S. Army was ordered to complete clearing of the enemy from its zone in the Rhine bridgehead area and to vacate Seventh U.S. Army (Sixth U.S. Army Group) zone as soon as practicable. The Army was to advance on the Hersfeld (H35) – – Kassel (C20) area and drive the enemy east of the line Hohe Rhon Mountains (N59) – – Werra River. Also it was to be prepared to leave one uncommitted infantry division in the area south of Giessen (G62) to be committed only on orders of Twelfth U.S. Army Group and one Cavalry Group (currently in Twelfth U.S. Army Group reserve) was to be moved to this area at such time as would not interfere with the movement of either troops or supplies. Finally, the Army was to be prepared for further advance into Germany toward the east or southeast.
An Operational Directive was sent by Third U.S. Army to the VIII, XII and XX Corps, changing the corps boundaries and giving instructions for the advance. It stated in part:
VIII Corps (76th, 87th and 89th Infantry Divisions and supporting troops) was to continue its aggressive advance in zone, was to maintain contact with First U.S. Army on the left (north) and XX Corps on the right (south), and when the enemy had been cleared to the line Wehrheim (M59) – – Kleinlinden (G61) was to be prepared to advance east or northeast on Army order. XII Corps (26th, 71st and 90th Infantry Divisions, 4th and 11th Armored Division and supporting troops) was to continue its aggressive advance in zone and maintain contact with Seventh U.S. Army on the right (south). XX Corps (5th, 65th and 80th Infantry Divisions, 6th Armored Division and supporting troops) was to continue its aggressive advance in zone.
In the XII Corps zone limited gains were made by the 4th Armored Division which was restricted by Army order from making further advances until infantry units could push nearer the armor in mop-up operations. From positions north of Hanau (M87), the 90th Infantry Division gained up to ten moles to the northeast. The 359th Infantry (motorized) mopped up in the rear of the 4th Armored Division with Grosskarden (M78), Kilianstaden (M87) and Heidenbergen (M88) being cleared. East of Hanau (M87) the 11th Armored Division continued its advance with Combat Command “A” clearing Rothenbergen (M97) while Combat Command “B” passed through Ruckingen (M87) and advanced eight miles to the north operating largely in Seventh U.S. Army zone. Toward the end of the period the 2nd Cavalry Group relieved the southern most units of the 26th infantry Division which began movement to the northeast. The 71st Infantry Division continued its movement from Seventh U.S. Army to XII Corps zone.
Plans for supply of the Army east of the Rhine River were rushed, with air deliveries of gasoline being given the most importance. Allocation of rail-head in the Mainz (M35) area was completed on this date, service to begin on 3 April when the railroad was to become operational. Separate off-loading points for each class of supply were to include Heidesheim (M25) for Class I, Welgesheim (M14) for Classes II and IV, and Nieder Ingleheim (M25) for Class III. All available two and one-half ton trucks in all quartermaster units were to haul gasoline from points west of the Rhine River to the Class III supply point which was to open 31 March at Hanau (M87).
Thursday – 29th March 1945271
0735 – Received XII Corps Survey Control dated 27th March 1945 from 410th F.A. Group.
Received XII Corps Survey Control from 410th F.A. Group date 28 March 1945.
Map scale use 1/25,000.
1200 – Battalion Commander gave orders to close station, march order and then proceed
with advance parties on reconnaissance in the vicinity of Bruchkobel.
1400 – Battalion left for new position in vicinity of Bruchkobel.
1630 – Battalion closed in new positions at Bruchkobel, locations as follows:
CP (wM849785); “A” Battery (wM8556575780); “B” Battery (wM8522576540); “C”
Battery (wM8527578165).
0001 – 2400 – Made one registration and two check registrations.
Thursday – 29th March 1945272
The Battalion departed Lämmerspiel.
Thursday – 29th March 1945273
Here the action was so rapid that the Battalion was forced to capture and clear towns for its own security. Successive days found the Battalion at Bruchkobel, Neidergrundau, Burg-Bracht and Hauswurz. At Hauswurz we took up position as right flank guard of the Third Army awaiting the arrival of the Seventh Army forward elements and also keeping supply routs protected for the extended armor.
Thursday – 29th March 1945274
The Battalion arrived Bruchkobel Germany.
Bruchkobel (Germany)
Thursday – 29th March 1945276
The Battalion displaced to new positions in the vicinity of Bruchkobel, Germany, (wM849763) and registered with the mission of supporting the drive of the 11th Armored Division, and of the 26th Infantry Division. No change in assignment.
Thursday – 29th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report277
Bruchkobel, Germany wM8476
Departed Lammerspiel, Germany wM8066 1340
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta 1600
distance marched 8 mi.
No limited assignment personnel
Thursday – 29th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report278
Bruchkobel, Germany wM8476
Departed Lammerspeil, Germany wM8067
1415 via Motor Convoy Arrived present Sta
At 1615 Distance marched 9 miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Thursday – 29th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report279
Bruchkobel, Germany wM8476
Wantke, Edward A. 32 144 311 Pfc.
Sk in qrs LD to dy
CORRECTION (24 Mar 45)
Harvey, Robert K. 33 301 272 Pvt.
Dy to sk in 5th Coll. Co LD Battle
Casualty.
SHOULD BE
Harvey Robert K. 33 301 272 Pvt.
Dy to LIA 5th Coll. Co Battle
Casualty.
Harvey, Robert K. 33 301 272 Pvt. Code M5
LIA to evacuated through 5th (Coll. Co) Code 2403
Med Bn to Hosp unknown Battle Casualty
Foot injury. Dy 531.
Departed Lammerspiel, Germany 1330.
Via Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta
1605. Distance marched approximately
9 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Thursday – 29th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report280
Bruchkobel Germany wM8576
Departed Lammerspiel Germany via motor
Convoy at 1400 arr present Sta at 1630
Distance marched approximately 10 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Thursday – 29th March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report281
Bruchkobel, Germany wM8476
Departed Ohertshausen, Germany wM7964
via Motor Convoy 1335. Arr present Sta
1610. Distance marched approximately
18 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Thursday – 29th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report282
Bruchkobel, Germany wM8476
Departed Lammerspiel, Germany wM8066
1340 via Motor Convoy. Arrived present
Sta 1600. Distance marched approximately
8 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Friday – 30th March 1945283
XII Corps’ attack continued throughout the period, with elements considerably farther east than any other units of Third U.S. Army or of other armies on the Western front. Spearheads of the 4th Armored Division resumed their attack, gaining twenty miles to the northeast. Combat Command “B” and the attached 359th Infantry fought against stubborn resistance inside Hersfeld (H35), while Combat Command “A” reached points ten miles east of the town. Gains of twenty miles were made by the 90th Infantry Division (less 359th Infantry), as it followed the 4th Armored Division. Capturing Gelenhausen (N07), the 11th Armored Division made ten miles in its continued advance to the northeast. Right flank protection was continued by the 2nd Cavalry Group, while to the rear the 71st Infantry Division closed in an area southeast of Frankfurt (M67), preparing to take an active role in the corps attack. The 26th Infantry Division gained ten miles in advances behind the 11th Armored Division, with Liesenwald (H09) and Budingen (M98) being taken.
Friday – 30th March 1945284
0810 – Battalion Commander left for air strip. Planning to observe by air to see if there
is any activity.
1025 – Battalion Commander returned to CP.
1035 – Battalion Commander left CP for 410th F.A. Group for conformance with Colonel
Day Group Commander.
1150 – Battalion Commander returned to CP from 410th F.A. Group.
1325 – Battalion Commander left CP for Battalion Air Strip.
1400 – Battalion Commander returned and gave orders to close station march ordered.
1445 – Battalion Commander & parties left for reconnaissance of new positions in vicinity
of Niedergrundau, Germany.
1745 – Battalion left Bruchkobel, Germany for New Position.
1930 – Battalion including Service & Personnel (rear echelon) opened at new station
Niedergruhdau.
2130 – Communications established with firing batteries 410th F.A. Group Headquarters.
0001 – 2400 – at 1130, started adjustment on enemy tanks at Coord (wM054792). Tanks
move eastward into town where a total of 10 or 12 tanks were observed.
During fire for effect, one tank may have been knocked out.
Friday – 30th March 1945285
The Battalion departed Bruchkobel Germany.
Friday – 30th March 1945286
The Battalion arrived Niedergrundau.
Friday – 30th March 1945287
Friday – 30th March 1945288
Niedergrundau (Germany)
Friday – 30th March 1945289
The Battalion moved to new positions in the vicinity of Niedergrundau, (wM976801) and registered. No change in mission or assignment.
14th March to 30th March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star
A Fifth Oak Leaf Cluster is awarded to WILLIAM D. HIGHTOWER, 01179097, 1st Lt., Field Artillery, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United Stated distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over Germany during the period 14 March 1945 to 30 March 1945. While serving as artillery Liaison Pilot Lt. Hightower distinguished himself by outstanding service in flying 35 sorties near or over enemy lines for the purpose of front line reconnaissance, and adjustment surveillance, and registration of artillery fire on enemy installations. The meritorious achievement of Lt. Hightower in the outstanding performance of his missions during the period mentioned measurably contributed to the success of the operations. Entered military service from North Carolina. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star, Page 10
Friday – 30th March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report290
Niedergrundau, Germany wM9780
Departed Bruchkobel, Germany wM8476 1500
via Motor Convoy. Arrived present Sta 1955
Distance marched 10 mi.
No limited assignment personnel
Friday – 30th March 1945 Battery “A” Morning Report291
Niedergrundau, Germany wM9780
Departed Bruchkobel Germany wM8476 at 1730
via Motor Convoy Arrived present Sta at
1915 Distance marched 12 miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday – 30th March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report292
Niedergrundau, Germany wM9779
Graff, William S. 33 707 438 Pfc. MOS 531 Code AA
Reasgd & rejd from atchd unasgd 48th
Reinf. Bn. per par 1, SO#19, Hq.
244th FA Bn. Race W.
Mayo Ernest M. 33 301 534 Pfc.
Dy to sk in 315th Coll. Co LD “Non-
Battle” (Disease_ Dy 531
Departed Bruchkobel, Germany 1800. Via
Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta 2015
Distance marched approximately 12 miles
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Thursday – 30th March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report293
Niedergrundau Germany wM8780
Yerkes, Samuel J. Jr., 13 153 117 Cpl. MOS 645 Code AA
Readgd & rejd from atchd unasgd 48th
Reinforcement Bn per par 2, SO #19 Hq 244th
FA Bn Race W
Departed Bruchkobel Germany via motor
convoy at 1800 arr present Sta at 2000
distance marched approximately 11 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Friday – 30th March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report294
Niedergrundau, Germany wM9780
Departed Bruchkobel, Germany wM8467 1800
via Convoy. Arrived present Sta 1955
Distance marched approximately 10 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Signal Corps photo caption reads – “Crewman of the 155mm Long Tom Rifle prepare to go into action during the 26th “Yankee” Division, Third U.S. Army drive through Gelnhausen, Germany. 244th FA BN, 26th Division, Tusa, Gelnhausen, Germany.” Gelnhausen is 4.7 miles (7.6km) east of Niedergrundau
Dear Family,
Here we go again. Just got back from the Bn. and “C” has been given a new job and I can say – “I don’t like it”. I’ll tell you about it if and when I can. As yet I know very little about it. I am going down to Corps. HQ and get the dope from the big boss. Sort of hate to leave off with the shooting and take up where Tad left off at Forrest. Hope we don’t have to paint anything on our helmets. Oh well, were in the Army and we’ll do it but we won’t have our hearts in it. We are combat F.A. but in name only. Love to all at home.
Tom.
Saturday – 31st March 1945295
In the XII Corps advance, Hersfeld (H35) was cleared by elements of Combat Command “B” (4th Armored Division). The major part of Combat Command “B” attacked on the east, abreast of Combat Command “A”. By the end of the period they had converged and were fighting in Horschel (H77). Following the advance of the 4th Armored Division, the 90th Infantry Division (less 359th Infantry) gained twenty miles and captured Starklos (H34) while mopping up isolated groups of enemy. To the south, the 11th Armored Division struck to the east, gaining up to thirty miles in a zone north and east of Fulda (H31). It was followed by the 26th Infantry Division which was engaged in mopping-up activities. To the rear, 2nd Cavalry Group was functioning south of the Third – Seventh U.S. Army boundary, screening the right flank. Southeast of Frankfurt (M67), the 71st Infantry Division remained in assembly at Hausenstamm (M76).
Friday – 31st March 1945296
0815 – Bn Comdr left Cp for 410th Group rear.
0915 – Sn Comdr returned to CP.
1015 – Bn Comdr with Battery Commanders and advanced details left on reconnaissance in the vic of
Burg Bracht.
1200 – Bn left Neidergrundau, Germany for new position in vic of Burg Bracht, order of march ”A”
“HQ” “B” “C” & Serv.
1600 – Bn closed in new positions at Burg Bracht, Germany.
1730 – Communications with firing batteries and Group Hq completed.
Gun batteries did not register and did not do any firing between the period 0001-2400
Saturday – 31st March 1945297
The Battalion departed Niedergrundau.
Saturday – 31st March 1945298
The Battalion arrived Burg Bracht Germany.
Saturday – 31st March 1945299
Saturday – 31st March 1945300
Burg-Bracht (Germany)
Saturday – 31st March 1945301
The Battalion moved to new positions in the vicinity of Burg Bracht Germany, (wN08289755) with no change in mission or assignment. By nightfall the supported Armor had advanced to a point making a further move necessary.
19th March to 31st March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal
A Third Oak Leaf Cluster is awarded to MAX L. GARLAND, 01165292, 1ST LT., Field Artillery, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United Stated distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over Germany during the period 19 March 1945 to 31 March 1945. While serving as artillery Liaison Pilot Lt. Garland distinguished himself by outstanding service in flight 35 sorties near or over enemy lines for the purpose of front line reconnaissance, and adjustment, surveillance, and registration of artillery fire on enemy installations. The meritorious achievement of Lt. Garland in the outstanding performance of his missions during the period mentioned measurably contributed to the success of the operations. Entered military service from Montana. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal, Page 9
1st August to 31st March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star
EDWARD W. SMETT, 20139771, S Sgt, Medical Detachment, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United States distinguished himself by meritorious service during the period 1 August 1944 to 31 March 1945 in France, Luxembourg, and Germany, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States. Award of Bronze Star Medal. Entered into military service from New Hampshire. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star, Page 4
1st August to 31st March 1945
General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star
SHERMAN G. WILSONS, 34249346, Sgt., Field Artillery, FA Bn., who while serving with the Army of the United States distinguished himself by meritorious service during the period 1 August 1944 to 31 March 1945 in France, Luxembourg, and Germany, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States. Awarded of Bronze Star Metal. Entered military service from Florida. Headquarters XII Corps Office of Commanding General, General Order No. 36, APO 312, U.S. Army, 7 May 1945, Section III, Award of Bronze Star, Page 5
Sunday – 31st March 1945 HQ & Hq Battery Morning Report302
Burg Bracht, Germany wM0897
Departed Niedergrundau, Germany wM9780
Via motor convoy at 1200. Arr present sta
1630. Distance marched approximately 15 mi
No limited assignment personnel
Burg Bracht, Germany wN0897
Departed Niedergrundau, Germany wM9780
1215 via Motor Convoy Arrived present Sta
1630 Distance marched 15 miles
2 EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Sunday – 31st March 1945 Battery “B” Morning Report304
Burg Bracht, Germany wN0897
Mayo, Ernest M. 33 301 354 Pfc. MOS 531 Code J4A
Sk in 315th Coll. Co LD to lost to
Hosp unknown “Non-battle” (Disease)
Departed Niedergrundau, Germany 1200.
Via Motor Convoy. Arrived present sta
1615. Distance marched approximately
19 miles.
Two EM Limited Assignment Personnel.
Sunday – 31st March 1945 Battery “C” Morning Report305
Boss Gesas Germany wN0898
Departed Niedergrundau Germany via motor
convoy at 1230 arr present Sta at 1630
Distance marched approximately 19 miles
One EM Limited Assignment Personnel
Sunday – 31st March 1945 Service Battery Morning Report306
Burg Bracht, Germany wN0897
Departed Bruchkobel, Germany wM8416
via Motor Convoy at 0815. Arr present
Sta 1635. Distance marched approximately
32 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Sunday – 31st March 1945 MD Detachment Morning Report307
Burg Bracht, Germany wN0897
Departed Nidergrundau, Germany wM9780
via Motor Convoy at 1200. Arrived present
sta 1630. Distance marched approximately
15 miles.
No limited assignment personnel
Mediterranean and European Theaters of Operation308
Crossing The Rhine, March 1945
March 1945309
Ballistic and Technical ordnance Service Team #3 calibrated the guns of Battery “A” on 8th March and the guns of Batteries “B” & “C” on 11th March, rendering the following report:
| BATTERY | CHARGE | TUBE SERIAL NO | MUZZLE VELOCITY | PROBABLE ERROR |
| Super | f/s | f/s | ||
| “A” | “ | 2127 | 2735.8 | 6.75 |
| “A” | “ | 2159 | 2736.3 | 3.33 |
| “A” | “ | 2165 | 2729.7 | 7.43 |
| “A” | “ | 2168 | 2724.0 | 10.64 |
| “B” | “ | 2130 | 2704.5 | 7.79 |
| “B” | “ | 1969 | 2726.8 | 5.27 |
| “B” | “ | 2476 | 2734,2 | 3.66 |
| “B” | “ | 1203 | 2738.1 | 11.43 |
| “C” | “ | 1772 | 2733.5 | 5.22 |
| “C” | “ | 2121 | 2721.4 | 4.38 |
| “C” | Normal | 2121 | 2031.5 | 6.18 |
| “C” | Super | 2145 | 2726.3 | 8.06 |
| “C” | “ | 2151 | 2715.4 | 5.94 |
The results of the calibration indicate the tubes are in remarkable good condition even though all tubes but one had fired in excess of 1400 service rounds.
March 1945310
Despite long supply lines and heavy equipment to move, the Battalion adapted itself readily to the quick and long moves required of it during the period and accomplished its missions in excellent manner. Due to the advance made and the generally favorable trend of the news, the morale of the Battalion was extremely high throughout the period. A total of 5700 rounds of 155mm gun ammunition was fired during the month.
One enlisted man was killed when the tractor in which he was riding ran into the gun ahead during a blackout night march on 9 March 1945.
The Battalion on observed missions destroyed two (2) AT Guns, three (3) field guns, one (1) road block and three (3) tanks. An undetermined number of Enemy troops were destroyed and wounded during observe missions on troop concentrations.
For comments, questions, corrections, update or to send information, please use –
contact.the.244th@gmail.com
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 289
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert 2nd Lt Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Library of Congress, American Folklife Center, Veterans History Project
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 290, 291
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 291
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 292
- No. 272 G-3 Report, 031200A Mar45 to 031200A Mar 45 12th Army Group, 4 March 1945
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 294
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 294
- Department of The Army, USH&EC, USAMHI, 202-244th 1945, “History of The 244th Field Artillery Battalion During World War II
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 295
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report1945
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 296
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert 2nd Lt Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 289
- Department of The Army, USH&EC, USAMHI, 202-244th 1945, “History of The 244th Field Artillery Battalion During World War II
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report March 1945
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert 2nd Lt Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- U.S. Army Military History Institute, Archives Branch, Colonel Davis Papers
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 299
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 300, 301
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 301
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 302
- Department of The Army, USH&EC, USAMHI, 202-244th 1945, “History of The 244th Field Artillery Battalion During World War II
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- U. S. Army Heritage and Education Center, U.S. Army Military History Institute 202-244th 1945, “History of The 244th Field Artillery Battalion During World War II, Page 4
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations, Page 303
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 304
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 304
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, C Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 306
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 307
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 308, 310
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 310, 311
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 311, 312
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- The U.S. Army Center of Military History, William M. Hammond
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Operations, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 312, 313
- Department of The Army, USH&EC, USAMHI, 202-244th 1945, “History of The 244th Field Artillery Battalion During World War II
- HQ, 244th F.A. Bn., APO 403, Major Carey A. Clark Commanding, Letter to Officers and Enlisted Men, History of the 244th, 26th June 1945
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report March 1945
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 313, 314
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- A Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 315
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 316
- Department of The Army, USH&EC, USAMHI, 202-244th 1945, “History of The 244th Field Artillery Battalion During World War II
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- Hq Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- SERVING IN HARM'S WAY, A Record of My Service In The U.S. Army and WWII, Byron G. Rogers jr., January 2006
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 317, 318
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- HQ, 244th F.A. Bn., APO 403, Major Carey A. Clark Commanding, Letter to Officers and Enlisted Men, History of the 244th, 26th June 1945
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report March 1945
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- Hq Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung, Grenade finds in Eppelheim, The "Jagdtiger" tank did not make it over the bridge, By Anja Hammer, 10/20/2017 Update: 10/21/2017 6:00 am
- Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung, Grenade finds in Eppelheim, The "Jagdtiger" tank did not make it over the bridge, By Anja Hammer, 10/20/2017 UPDATE: 10/21/2017 6:00 am
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 322
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- Hq Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 322
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- Hq Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 323, 324
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- Department of The Army, USH&EC, USAMHI, 202-244th 1945, “History of The 244th Field Artillery Battalion During World War II
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 325
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- Hq Battery, Frederick (Fred) Priewert, 2nd Lt., Journal
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ & Hq Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Third U. S. Army After Action Report, Volume I, Chapter 10 - March Operations Page 325
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion Journal Report
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- W. U. (Doc) Savage Letter, December 15, 1949
- PFC Harry G. MacDuffee, B Battery, 244th Field Artillery - Battery Record
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report March 1945
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery HQ Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery A Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery B Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery C Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery SB Morning Report
- 244th F.A. Battalion Battery MD Morning Report
- Mediterranean and European Theaters of Operation In World War II, Gene Thorp
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March
- 244th Field Artillery Battalion After Action Report, 1 March to 31 March