WW2 Day By Day Journal Of Events And Combat

HEADQUARTERS 3RD BATTALION JOURNAL FOR THE 3RD BATTALION, 26th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division COMMENCING NOVEMBER 1ST 1942 possibly written by Paul Lunnie and John D. Stomer at the request of Col. John D. Corley. November 1st to 7th at sea. Aboard ship L-10 enroute to French Algeria. Nov. 8th - Les-Andalouses, French Algeria. Tactical landing on White Beach at 0130; initial combat operation for the battalion. Initial elements of the battalion fired on at 0745; but continued advance with slight resistance uphill to Djebel Murdjadjo was only slightly opposed. Reached initial objective (Djebel Murdjadjo) about 0830. Remainder of days action consisted of automatic weapons and 81mm fire used by Company "M". Enemy patrols active at night. Nov. 9th - Heavy artillery fire on position on Djebel Murdjadjo, about 0700, casualties reported. Throughout the day artillery fired intermittently on our position probably enemy mortar fire as well. Company "M" mortars and machine gun section active throughout the day. Enemy patrols active at night. Between 8th and 9th there was no available communication by radio. Foo party (British) had contact thru ships at sea with our regiment - our only communication with any of our regiment. Nov. 10th - Throughout the morning enemy artillery fire and mortar fire kept intermittent activity against Djebel Murdjadjo. Our artillery neutralized enemy positions to a great extent. Enemy surrendered approximately 1230 this date. Battalion moved to heights west of Oran at 1500 and went into tactical bivouac. Nov. 11th - 12th - Remained in tactical bivouac west of Oran until 0900 the morning of the 12th when the battalion moved to La-Senia Airport with the tactical mission of guarding the base against enemy ground attack. Distance traveled 11 ½ miles by foot. Nov. 13th thru 19th - Usual guard duties. Nov. 20th - Company "I" and Anti-Tank platoon of Hq & Hq Company 3rd Battalion left at 0930 for Tafaroui Airport to leave on secret mission. Destination unknown. Nov. 21st - 23rd - Usual guard duties. Nov. 23rd - Company "L" and Anti-Tank platoon of 2d Battalion accompanied by Major Corley, Lt. Dreier, and Pvt DeFelice of Hq 3rd Battalion, left La-Senia Airport for Tafaroui Airport at 0820 to leave by plane destination unknown. Nov. 24th - 25th - Normal guard duties. Nov. 26th - Lt Col Bowen, Staff Sgt Pokorny, Pvt Harris left on secret mission to Algiers. Capt Walter H. Grant assumed command in absence of Lt Col Bowen. Nov. 27th - Normal guard duties. Nov. 28th - Bn alerted and prepared to move to new base. Lt Col Bowen and party returned to La-Senia Airport. Nov. 29th - Left La-Senia Air base by motor for Tafaroui Air Base, (Distance 7 miles) Were flown from Tafaroui air base to Bleida, leaving at 1115. Arrived at Bleida at 1315 and took up tactical bivouac. Transported by 60th and 62nd Transport Service in C-47's. Distance 300 miles. Nov. 30th - Left Bleida at 0950 by air in same planes for Youks-Les-Bains. Arrived at destination at 1115, took up a tactical bivouac for the night. (Distance travelled 400 miles). Dec. 1st - Travelled over road approximately 55 miles to Feriana to await orders issued by Col Edson D. Raff. Left for objective by motor reached objective at 2000. Route Feriana, Thelepte, Sidi-Bou-Zid, Djebel, Bon Dzei, detrucked approximately 5 miles from objective advanced to attack with Bn Hq Section Ammunition and Pioneer Section of Hq & Hq Company; Company "M", and Company "I" less one rifle platoon. Troops involved with this battalion were Company "B" 701st TD Bn and one French Rifle Company. Reached the minor hills in vicinity of Djebel-Bou-Dzer action stabilized until 1600, when German positions were attacked. Lts Hersey and Stanton wounded. Attack repulsed by well entrenched machine gun fire. Dec. 2nd - Action stabilized most of the day. Dec. 3rd - Enemy positions in Faid shelled by French artillery from 1300 to 1500. Company "E", 503rd Parachute Battalion moved in rear as a reserve unit. Successful attack launched at 1700; at which time 120 German prisoners were taken. Units in attack were Company "I", Ammunition and Pioneer Platoon of Hq and Hq Company, one French Rifle Company, 503rd Parachute Company. Dec. 4th - Moved to Faid. (1300) Remained in bivouac until 2030 Dec. 5th. Moved to Sidi-Bou-Zid at 1930 by truck distance (12 miles). Companies bivouacked tactically surrounding the town. C.P. established in town at 2230. Bn C.O. remained at Faid. Dec. 6th - Faid attacked by enemy bombers at 0730 and again at 0945. Five vehicles destroyed and one casualty result of first attack - no damage from second. Bn S-6 and S-5 in CP outside of Sidi-Bou-Zid at 1530. S-5 in CP overnight. S-6 and S-5 called to conference at Col Raff's Headquarters at 1800. 3rd Bn S-3 held meeting for company officers in CP at 1830. Radio contact established with O.P. at pass near Faid, at 1630. Telephone communications established with half tracks, CP in Sidi-Bou-Zid, and civilian switchboard at 1700. Dec. 7th - Enemy air attack in vicinity of Faid at 0730. Enemy planes over camp area at 1000. Friendly planes patrolling area all day. Enemy planes attacked at 1820. AT Platoon 2nd Battalion, 26th Inf, joined us at 2130. Company "I" patrol on special mission. Pioneer and Ammunition Platoon Hq & Hq Company, 3rd Bn, out on several missions daily - mine laying, blasting, booby traps, etc. Dec. 8th - Enemy planes attacked at 0720. Battalion Commander called a meeting of all company commanders at 1130 today in the CP and to meet at same time and place daily. Battalion moved into billets in town at 1830 for the night (rain). Dec. 9th - Battalion moved to bivouac area from overnight billet at 0545. Enemy planes attacked at 1240 and again at 1325. Battalion moved at 1430 to overnight billets. Battalion alerted for possible move. Billeting detail left at 1800 (Lt Murphy and S/Sgt Pokorny). Dec. 10th - Battalion returned to bivouac area from overnight billets at 0530. Enemy planes bombed Sidi-Bou-Zid and vicinity at 1110. Day spent in preparation for move. Battalion, Company "M", Hq Company and part of Company "K" (44) entrucked at 1830, crossed IP at 1930 arrived at billets near Feriana, Tunisia at 0330 Dec 11th, 1942. Dec. 11th - CP established in Feriana and at billets, day spent in arranging billets, routine guard, etc. Remainder of battalion (less one platoon and Lt Weeks, Maj Corley, remained at Sidi-Bou-Zid area as guard and police detail) left Sidi-Bou-Zid at 2230 arrived at Feriana 0630. (Distance 82 miles). Dec. 12th - Remainder of battalion arrived at billets at Feriana at 0635. Company "I" continued on to Youks-Les-Bains to replace Company"L" as airport guards. Company "L" moved up to billets at Feriana at 1450. Intelligence section left Feriana at 1430 under Lt Dreier and Cpl Larkin, on special mission to Gafsa. Convoys of supplies, equipment, barracks bags, etc., arrived during the night. Maj Corley, Lt Weeks, S/Sgt LeCates arrived with the remainder of Company "K". Dec. 13th - Church services by Chaplain Chase 1000. Bn S-6 to meeting at Col Raff's office 1330. 3rd Bn Anti-tank Platoon returned from Gafsa at 1330. Capt Hughes and Mr. Lundstrom (AP) left CP at 1445 for Algiers on a special mission. Strength is as follows with attached units: Hq Co 6 officers and 112 EM, 6 officers and 40 EM attached, Co"K", 5 officers and 171 EM, Co "L", 3 officers and 124 EM, Co "M", 5 officers and 165 EM, 105th C.A. 1 officer and 46 EM, 53rd Signal, 1 officer and 10 EM, 503rd Parachute, 4 officer and 81 EM, Tank Destroyer 6 officers and 192 EM. Lt Woods Co "L", lead patrol thru Maknassy to Manousa after dark. Green flares were shot in air at each end of his column of 3 jeeps. Patrol returned without encountering any enemy. Dec. 14th - Bn S-6 called a company commanders meeting for 0800, Chaplain Chase and Cpl Nuber left Feriana for Algiers by plane at 1030. Lt Col Bowen and Pvt Heffernan left CP at 1130 for Gafsa returned at 1600. Bn S-6 and S-5 to Col Raff's Hq at 1830. Lt Smith, 2nd Bn, Anti-Tank Platoon, lead patrol to farm about 1 mile west of Maknassy. Learned of presence of Italians in Maknassy and returned. Dec. 15th - Company commanders meeting scheduled for 1300 daily by S-6. Usual camp duties by personnel. Intelligence information: (100 Italians in Maknassy, 40 Germans 3 miles from Maknassy on road to Sidi-Bou-Zid, Faid at bridge. One or two trains (supply) leave Tunis for Gabes nightly). Contact patrol of Lt Woods, Co "L", a French soldier and an American soldier strafed by JU-88 on way to La-Senia no casualties. Returning to Gafsa jeep overturned, wrecking the jeep and causing head injuries to French soldier. Patrol lead by Lt Smith, 2nd Bn Anti-Tank platoon entered Maknassy and learned that about 150 Italians were asleep in and near the railroad station. Observed (5) unmanned Anti-Tank guns along the road toward Gafsa. Dec. 16th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-6 and Pvt Harris left by jeep for Gafsa at 1230. Bn S-3 and Pvt Usner left by jeep for Gafsa at 1320. Two platoons (Lt Magrail and Lt Falconeri) with Capt Morrissey left for Gafsa on a special mission at 1510. Enemy plane flew over the area at 2104. Reconnaissance patrol in force (two platoons, rifle, Co "L" mentioned above) with Bn Commander. Capt Morrissey and Capt Fryman travelling by 4 2½ ton trucks, one jeep and one ambulance left for Gafsa for Maknassy at 1800. Detrucked about five miles west of Maknassy and attacked Italian positions in the town from the south and east. Opposed energetically by fire from Anti-Tank guns (5) and machine guns. Captured 21 Italian prisoners and withdrew along road to the west toward Gafsa at 0400 Dec.17th. See attached Intelligence Reports: (Intelligence Information: 30 Italians at Megnona, 100 Italians at Maknassy with Anti-Tank and machine guns, 40 Germans at bridge 3 miles north of Maknassy, German patrol sent to Maigila pass and return, about 45 enemy at Reghleb, sent light vehicle with six men to Metleg pass, Maximum of 150 enemy at Kiechem.) Dec. 17th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Raiding patrol returned with 21 Italian prisoners at about 1400. Dec. 18th - Usual camp duties by personnel. German plane flew over camp area at 0630, dropped two bombs near Feriana and later several more on airfields at Thelepte. Enemy plane was chased away by our own P-40's. German flew over camp area at 1230 - no bombs were dropped. Dec 19th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-3 and 1 Platoon of Company "L" under Lt Buttolph and Lt Billings, and Pvt Usner left for Gafsa at 1010. Air alarm at 1125. Meeting of all Bn officers and Plt Sgts at 1315 at Bn S-6 quarters (Critique on Co "L" raid.) Dec. 20th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 0645, mail call at 1545. Bn S-1 and Capt Rainey returned from mission (Algiers) at 1750. Bn Intelligence section returned from mission at Gafsa at 2130 - also a platoon of Co "L". Dec. 21st - Usual camp duties by personnel. One squad of Ammunition and Pioneer platoon left camp at 1415 - mission mine laying. Enemy activity reported at Kebeis. Ammunition and Pioneer Squad under Cpl Halko to work under Bn S-3 at Gafsa. Chaplain Chase returned from D. S. Algiers at 2045, convoy of mail supplies and equipment arrived at 2045. Dec. 22nd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 0625 and at 0640, Bn S-5 to Youks Les Bains at 1340. Practice alert in case of enemy air and ground attack at 1600 companies to their dispersal areas. Dec. 23rd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 1000, Bn S-6 and Pvt Harris to Gafsa at 1300, convoy of replacements arrived at 1903. Unassigned Dec. 24th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Anti-Tank platoon, Bn S-1 to Gafsa on special mission at 1930, church services at 2330. Replacements assigned to companies. Dec. 25th - Special mission to Gafsa returned to Feriana at 0730, Bn S-1 returned at 0830 after reporting results at French Hq at Gafsa. On reaching Gafsa on the night of the 24th at 1900, the mission consisting of Capt Hughes, Lt Honecker, 2nd section of the 3rd Bn Anti-Tank platoon, and one section of Ammunition and Pioneer Platoon proceeded to Sened where they were met by Lt Buttolph and 12 men of Company "M". The mission of the Anti-Tank section was to proceed along the road, Gafsa, Sened, Maknassy, to utilize the closest possible range of the town of Maknassy, and open fire south 2 Anti-Tank guns, on the town, firing for approximately 5 minutes, and then withdrawing as quickly as possible to Gafsa. Lt Buttolph and his patrol were to secure the route mentioned above and also provide local security for the Anti-Tank guns. Both patrols left Sened at 2230, at 20 minute intervals, over very muddy, and rough roads. The advance patrol detrucked at a point 5 miles west of Maknassy and proceeded on foot, followed by the Bn Anti-Tank section. The patrol moved forward to a point 1 mile west of Maknassy, where gun positions were selected. At the moment the guns advanced from rear of column to their positions, all enemy guns, both anti-tank and automatic weapons opened fire on all roads leading from the town. This enemy fire lasted for about 5 minutes. Because of unsuitable terrain, and a lack of cover for anti-tank guns our guns did not fire. (Our mission was solely to create confusion in the town: this was done without firing a shot). Our route of approach to the town was under heavy enemy anti-tank gun fire, so the mission withdrew immediately. Mission successful without expenditure of men, vehicles or ammunition. The same night a patrol lead by Lt Megrail consisting of 3 men from Co "L" and 4 Pioneer men with a mission of laying mines and cutting enemy telephone wires, at El Hafey southeast of El Guettar, attempted to accomplish their mission. They were fired on by 2 anti-tank guns, 4 machine guns, and approximately 70 riflemen, that were occupying an outlying outpost. Throughout the evening, our patrols succeeded in harassing and exciting the enemy outposts with no damage to themselves. Otherwise Christmas day was enjoyed by all. Dec. 26th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Outpost at Gafsa relieved by Lt Shaw and one cal .30 section from Co "M", adding one 81 mm squad, Lt Falconiere and one rifle platoon from Co "L". Patrol lead by Lt Megrail, composed of 2 men Co "M", 4 men Co "L", Lt Anderson and 2 men Hq Co travelled in vicinity of El Hafey to cut phone wires. Enroute a German patrol of 1 officer, 1 Sgt, and 3 men mounted on a large motorcycle, with sidecar, was encountered and captured. Two Germans were wounded one of whom was the officer, who later died in the hospital in Gafsa. Prisoners were escorted to Feriana where they were interrogated by Bn Intelligence section, (Copy of results attached), and later turned over to French authorities for internment. Dec. 27th - Usual camp duties at Feriana. Chaplain Chase left on DS at 1400 for Constantine to visit hospital and obtain PX supplies. Activity in vicinity of Gafsa outpost. French and American troops in Gafsa were harassed by ME 109s twice during the day, doing no damage to American troops. At 1000 hrs our outlying outpost in the vicinity of El Hafey sighted a German column of 1 armored car and 7 motorcycles moving west towards our positions. Waiting till the column was in range of 200 yards our outpost opened fire, knocking out 1 armored car, and two motorcycles, and killing at least 10 men. The remainder of the German troops, after dismounting and fighting on foot for a few minutes, retreated in the face of vigorous assault put up by Lt Falconiere's outpost. Our outpost held its position until later it sighted a column of 4 German tanks and several motorcycles. Realizing that only riflemen could not combat tanks, the outpost fell back to a demolition trap, on the road from El Guettar to Gabbes. The Bn Anti-Tank platoon was moved to El Guettar to lay in waiting for the tank column, which never appeared. Night patrols were sent out, and have definitely located the enemy positions. Night patrols also made reconnaissance for prospective positions. Dec. 28th - Usual camp duties at Feriana. Thelepte airport bombed at 0830 by one JU-88, that dropped two bombs; no ostensible damage. Bn S-6 to Col Raff's office at 1400 to confer with American General. Enemy reinforcements reported by Bn S-3 beyond Gafsa at 1???. Murphy on reconnaissance at 1300 returned at 1800. Dec. 29th - Air alarm at 0450, two patrols sent out 0930 to investigate Arab village and look for two enemy gliders that were reported in vicinity. Dec. 30th - Patrols at outpost east of Gafsa met enemy and withdrew at 1300. Ammunition and Pioneer section headquarters returned from Gafsa at 1530. Enemy parachutists reported in vicinity at 1830. Dec. 31st - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-1 left for Algiers at 0900 Co "I", arrived at Feriana by motor convoy at 1430. Jan. 1st - Usual camp duties by personnel. Co "L" alerted. Jan. 2nd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Unidentified plane strafed camp area at 0745. Bn S-2 returned from mission to Oran at 1340. Jan, 3rd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Companies Hqrs, "L" and "M" alerted for possible move at 1130. Bn S-3 returned from Gafsa at 1300. Jan. 4th - Twelve German planes bombed Thelepte airport dropped about 20 bombs - 1 fighter destroyed and 1 bomber slightly damaged. 1 man badly wounded and another slightly wounded. Our fighter shot down 1 German fighter and 1 bomber and left one with motor burning. Usual camp duties by personnel. Jan. 5th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-1 and Bn S-4 returned from missions at 2230. 1sts Drier and McLaughlin promoted to the rank of Capt. Jan. 6th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Jan. 7th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Jan. 8th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Co commanders meeting at 0900 at S-6 quarters. Bn S-6 and Sgt Pokorny left at 1015 for Gafsa. Bn alerted at 1100 possible move. Co "L" moved to Gafsa by truck at 1115, air alarm at 1620. Bn S-6 returned from Gafsa at 1635. Camp area visited by 3 colonels from General's Hq. Jan. 9th - An air alarm at 0835. Bn S-6 left for Gafsa at 1015. 2nd Bn AT Pltn moved to Gafsa. Co "I" left at 1815 for Gafsa. Bn S-6 returned from Gafsa at 1700. Jan. 10th - Bn Intelligence men returned from Gafsa 0100. Air Alarm at 0730. Bn S-3 left for Gafsa at 1030. Bn S-6 left on reconnaissance to Gafsa at 1400. Bn S-4 and asst S-4 left for Constantine at 1430. Recreation center for troops opened in Feriana by Chaplain Chase. One 81mm section Co "M" returned from Gafsa at 1715. Jan. 11th - Usual camp duties by personnel. 5 gliders reported 12 miles north of Kasserine. Jan. 12th - Communication Plt left for Gafsa at 0500 Lt Murphy in charge. Col Bowen returned from recon to Gafsa at 0930. Bn S-4 returned from Gafsa at 0930. Bn S-1 left for Gafsa (Recon) at 0900. Air attack at 1430 and again at 1445. Bn S-1 returned from Gafsa at 1930. Jan. 13th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 1830 - Airport bombed. Jan. 14th - Air alarm at 0745. Bn alerted for move at 1130. Bn S-6 and Pvt Wm M Harris left for Gafsa at 1200. Bn left bivouac area Feriana by vehicle at 2200. Order of convoy: Hq Co, Co "K", and Co "M" Strength of Co's Hq Co 68 EM 5 off 53 EM atchd Co "K" 188 EM 6 off 3 EM atchd Co "M" 179 EM 6 off Arrived at Gafsa at 0300 Jan 15 43. Jan. 15th - Spent day in cleaning and preparing billets in French garrison. Bn S-6 called Co Comdrs meeting for 1900. Col Raff arrived in CP at 1400. Co "K", Co "I", and parts of Co "M" dug in position in vicinity Sened and El Guettar. Enemy activity at outposts at Sened resulted in 8 EM dead, 6 EM wounded, and 2 EM and 2 officers (Lts Wick and Norwood) missing - believed to have been captured. Mission sent out to lay mines. Jan. 16th - Air alarm at 0925. Unit comdrs meeting at 1030. Enemy tanks (15) followed by infantry reported at 1120 moving north at Sened. Col Raff called for air support at 1127. Contradictory reports received and patrols sent out but weren't able to establish the fact of any enemy column. Air mission flew over Gafsa at 1500 saw nothing. Bn S-3 left on recon at 1545. Lt Anderson and a squad of Ammo & Pioneer men went out to investigate our mine fields and discovered German mines and booby traps placed among our mines. Bn S-3 returned to CP at 1940. "K" Co patrol under Sgt Russell reported in to CP at 1650 reporting no activity. Sgt Szerkawicz patrol (Co "K") reported in to CP at 2120 reporting having seen an enemy outpost and having heard vehicles - thought to be motorcycles. Other units moved in vicinity during the night. Btry "B", 701st TD, 692nd AA, 213th CA, Btry's "B" & "D". Strength report 16/l/43 Hq Co 3rd Bn 123 EM - 10 officers Atchd 141 EM - 10 officers Company "I" 164 EM - 5 officers Company "K" 194 EM - 6 officers " "L" 203 EM - 7 officers " "M" 187 EM - 6 officers 701st TD 194 EM - 6 officers 692nd CA 67 EM - 5 officers 213th CA 350 EM - 10 officers 5th FA 120 EM - 4 officers Jan. 17th - Air alarm at 0910. "L" Co. reports having shot down one ME-109 at 1122. General Porter in CP at 1415; left at 1615. Bn left for Sened at 1430. Units at Sened and El Guettar relieved by French with the exception of the 2nd Bn, 26th Inf, Anti-Tank platoon under Lt Smith and one platoon of 692nd CA. All movements being made under the cover of night. Enemy prisoner taken by Co "L" from the plane that was shot down and brought to CP at 1450 for questioning and sent back to French Hq at Feriana at 1620. Btry "D" 5th FA moved into positions at Gafsa at 1155 . Lt Roosevelt and 4 EM of the 33rd FA came in vicinity to make a reconnaissance. Patrols sent out an usual in vicinity of Sened and El Guettar. Co "K"patrol under Sgt Timian left at 2000 to patrol from outpost at El Guettar; patrol returned at 0100 18/1/43 reporting armored vehicle, 50 men and machine guns employed along road and up into the hills. Jan. 18th - Air alarm at 1000. Bn S-6, S-3 and Lt Roosevelt left CP at 1007 on reconnaissance. Col Raff held unit comdrs meeting at 1030 and called meeting of all communications officers for 1400. Col Raff left CP at 1045 to inspect gun positions - returned at 1230. Air Corps officers in CP at 1130. Col Butler and staff officers (1st Engrs) in CP at 1135 - left on reconnaissance at 1240. Bn S-5 returned from recon. at 1540. 2nd Bn 26th Inf, in CP at 1430. Col Raff meeting at 1800. S/Sgt Shine (Sgt Major) and group who remained at Feriana rejoined Bn at Gafsa at 2210. Jan. 19th - Air alarm at 0955. One enemy plane reported shot down by AA and small arms at 1000. Remainder of "D" Co patrol left with Sgt Timian at 2000 - 17/1/43 returned at 2330 verifying the report of Sgt Timian. Col Raff left by plane for Feriana rejoined Bn at Gafsa at 2210. Jan. 20th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Pvt Whek (Int Section) with Pvt Jarnigan (Jeep driver) and Pvt Jaworski (Comm Platoon) left at 2000 to establish a CP at Sened. Intelligence section went to Sened to help evacuate troops - returned to base at Gafsa at 0230 - 21/1/43. One company of 19th Engineers joined us at 2300 (185 EM & 5 officers). Jan. 21st - Enemy plane reported landed at Sened at 0945. Three of six Air Corps men whose B-26 was forced to land in vicinity of Gabes and who have been on the road towards friendly lines for over a week reported into Col Bowen at 0930. Capt Bowers comdg Co "F" in CP at 1030. Unit comdrs meeting at 1030. At 1600 Lt Col Bowen, Capt Carvey, Roworth (British) Lt Root and Sgt Hinton were presented with the Croix de Guerre by the French. Part of Bn billetted in Gafsa (Hq Co "M" Co moved at 1850 to bivouac areas on the outskirts of the city. CP established at 1930 distance by vehicle 3 miles. Air alarm at 2115. The story of the 3 men in plane mentioned above is as follows: Flew near Gabes with mission of bombing a railroad bridge. Dropped their bombs and, as they pulled away from target, both motors quit. They crash landed near Sebkret Mansour without being observed. They started to hike toward Gafsa and were captured by 6 Italians, a German and an Arab. The German and the Arab placed them in the rear of a small car after hastily searching them and started to take them back to Gabes. The German had only taken the officers side arms from him. The other two had shoulder holsters which the German did not touch. As they drove along, the American flyers hit the German over the head, shot the Arab, wrecked the car and escaped, they then made their way across the mountains to Sakket and then to Bou Hamran where they were hailed by an enemy patrol. They split into 2 groups of 3 and continued. The three were interviewed by this Hq and finally made their way to Gafsa. Jan. 22nd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Mission now changed to defend Gafsa. Hq Co moved back one mile by vehicle inside the road blocks at 1630. Positions dug in by 2000 hour. Jan. 23rd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Pvts Whel, Jaworski and Jernigan and three French soldiers returned at 0100 from outpost at Sened. Two enemy trucks entered Sened at daybreak 1/22/43 approximately 30 men - Machine guns on trucks. The enemy was active in the city until about 1100 when they approached our men at outpost. Men claim to have inflicted three casualties. Our men tried to blow their jeep up. Pvt Jaworski cut telephone wire withdrew on foot to the French outpost at Sened arriving there at 0020. Enemy plane flew over encampment at 1345. Jan. 24th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 1015 and at 1425. 3rd Bn Anti-tank platoon returned from outpost at El Guettar at 2030 travelled 11 miles by truck. Jan. 25th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 1120 and at 1350. Jan. 26th - Companies of the battalion moved in course of the afternoon to new defensive in the vicinity of Gafsa. Air alarm at 1525. Jan. 27th - Lt Col JW Bowen assumed command of Task Force in addition to his other duties as comdr of 3rd bn upon the departure of Col Edson D. Raff having been relieved. Air alarms at 1120, 2215, 1540, and 1620. Jan. 28th - 3 companies of Germans and Italians, unknown number of German motorcycles have moved into Sened station one kilo north of railroad. Field construction going on which needs observation. Information obtained from French deemed excellent. Between Gafsa and Zannouch Italian patrols coming down from Djorbata to mine railroad tracks and road especially near railroad house 23 & 24. Information from French source deemed excellent. French outpost six miles south of El Guettar on El Guettar and Gabes road bombed by 18 Stukas and 4 Messerschmidts at 1545 one man wounded. Italian patrols active last night. Jeep patrol between Gafsa and Sidi-Bou-Zid yesterday afternoon; also two German planes at 1330 believed to be Messerschmidts. Both times they were met by our AA fire. Air recon. at 0900 - 1010 on Jan 27th reports 5 trucks apparently Italian at about 100 men in Mozzouva. On road east of Mazzouva 4 to 5 halted trucks and one in ravine. At Sened station 5 to 8 mounds of Alfalfa with heavy tracks leading into them. Information from Kokomo. French patrols report that they believe German or Italian outposts located in DJ Majoura and DJ El Kabar. Air alarm at 0750, 1130 and 1315. Jan. 29th - Usual activity about the garrison and present Bn CP (Caserin). Air alarm sounded in town at 0750 and 1110. At 1200 an called air mission was called for by Col Bowen to provide cover for our tanks moving to vicinity of Sened. A convoy of French and American trucks were strafed on the Feriana-Gafsa road causing a total loss of six trucks and six enlisted men who were wounded. Jan. 30th - All was quiet in Gafsa until a report was received by the French at 0915 that the Faid Pass was being attacked by German troops. The defense of Gafsa was alerted at 0930. In the evening at 1630 Gen Porter arrived to assume command of the Task Force. At 1900 Lt Anderson of Hq Co departed for the vicinity of Sened to change of an anti-tank mine field and returned at 0230 the following morning. Jan. 31st - Services were held by Chaplain Chase at 1030 in the French garrison, at 1130 at the Prisoner of War Enclosure, and at 1430 at Co "I"s bivouac area for Protestants. Catholic services were held at 0800 0930, and 1600 in the French Garrison. The later services by Chaplain Kelly, attached to the Air Corps, Thelepte. Air alarms were sounded at 0740, and again at 0810. We received a report at 1310 that six American vehicles were strafed on the Feriana-Gafsa road. One officer was killed six EM were wounded, six trucks were totally destroyed. At 1830 Lt Anderson of Hq Co departed for vicinity of Sened where his group laid 36 anti-tank mines and several "booby traps". Thru the early hours of the morning armored units rolled through the town of Gafsa enroute to their bivouac area on the Gafsa Airport, where they assembled in preparation for an attack on Sened. Feb. 1st - Armored units left bivouac at approximately 0900 to advance on Sened. Heaviest resistance was encountered at Sened Station. Our troops had air cover most of the day, but German Stukas managed to sneak in and do some effective dive bombing; especially on the infantry troops. The Task Force in Gafsa was totally in the dark as to the progress that was being made around Sened. As in all armored attacks, they sent us no information and failed to ask us for information. Capt Dreier, Bn S-2 always has up to date information on every activity which he receives from a secret source, for a few hands full of tea. During the attack which lasted for two days, our outpost remained at Zanouch. This outpost is operated by Co "L", and the Chasseur D'Afrique. During this period they operated patrols on the Sidi-Bou-Zid road. During the afternoon a small Italian patrol approached the French outpost at El Guettar, but was driven off. Co "K" was alerted to move to the oasis of El Guettar, but did not go into action. Feb. 2nd - First air alarm of the day was sounded at 0915. Little else of consequence occurred until Lt Falconiere called from the Zannouch outpost and said that he had 3 suspicious looking characters in his possession that claimed to be British subjects. They were sent to Task Force Hq where they were interrogated at some length. They were members of a long range desert group sent out by the British 8th Army. They left the vicinity of Cairo, Egypt on Nov 21st, 1942 and travelled across the desert in American "jeeps". Enroute they destroyed much enemy property in the desert. They were ambushed in the mountains south of Gabes where most of their party was either captured or killed. From that point they walked 100 miles across Chott Djerid and thru the mountains in 4 days. The same night they were escorted to II Corps for identification, interrogation, etc. At 1830 a 26th Inf Sv Co truck (2 ½ ton) ran over a French road mine, seriously injuring T/5 Carl S. Best of Sv Co and T/4 Kenneth O. Miller 3488th Ord Co. Reports of the armored battle at Sened are beginning to come in - they are sketchy and indicate that the Stukas are really "hell on earth" especially for the 168th Inf. Feb 3rd - The greatest event of the day was a visit by Capt William Byrne from Reg Hq - our first news of the activity of the Regt in several weeks. Cold, hungry, and tired, he sat thru a barrage of questions by the officers of the bn. We all regretted to hear of the heavy losses of officers and men in the vicinity of Osseltia. We were incensed to hear that the 26th Combat Team, less the 2nd and 3rd Bns with some armored elements, was on the way to counter-attack at Faid. It took us three days to take the same pass that was abandoned by our allies in one day! Now our military kinfolk were to lose more blood for the self same spot. Co "K" moved to El Guettar by truck at 1900. The company and attachments set up a defensive position in the vicinity of the oasis. Brig Gen Porter returned to his former post at II Corps. Feb 4th - On this date, the US Forces vacated the high ground they held east of Sened Station. The last elements passed through town at 0300. Many mines and booby traps were placed in the vicinity of Sened Station by our force. At approximately 1310, a large flight of 41 Flying Fortresses and 48 P-38's flew over town, headed towards Sfax. The entire town turned out to witness the demonstration. At las we had support we were entitled to. This afternoon we received an order from II Corps stating that our Task Force was under the British First Army. To us it was just another hq to serve under. We have served under everything but the "Rising Sun" and the "Swastika" to date! Lt Buttolph and patrol returned to Sened Station to recover two bodies left by the 168th Inf. The patrol advanced to the Station and proceeded to accomplish their mission. As Pvt Kennedy of Hq Co was searching the bodies for booby traps, two Italian tanks roared up to their position causing them to take flight. As they left the station they spoiled some US Ammunition and gas. This pile was set fire by tracer bullets and destroyed, as the patrol was unable to stop long enough to salvage the supplies. Feb.5th - The only activity for the day was a report from French Div hq that there was a strong enemy column near Sened. This information was verified and an air mission called for. The air corps reported that this target was effectively strafed. At 1130 a reconnaissance patrol reported to the Bn CP. More information on the recent activities was obtained. Col Frederick Butler, C.E. reported to the Task Force and assumed command. Feb 6th - During the morning a patrol of Ammo and Pion men from Hq Co searched the Gafsa-Sened-Maknassy road for mines. On the road 7 km west of Sened, a new type of Italian mine was discovered and disarmed. The mine was brought back to the Bn and studied by the men of the Ammo and Pion platoon of Hq Co. Col Butler held a meeting of unit comdrs at 1815. Feb 7th - Carried on the usual duties until air raid alarm was sounded at 1100. During the morning Lt Anderson exhibited the new Italian mine to all cos of the Bn. The piece was then sent to II Corps Engineers. At the regular unit commanders meeting Capt Dreier announced that there was a German spy circulating in the area wearing an American uniform with a Red Cross arm band on his sleeve. Patrol from Co "L" left for Zannouch on routine patrol activity. Patrol groups remain at Station Sened for 48 hours. Feb 8th - Air raid alarm at 0850. A report was received from Station Zannouch outpost at 1000 stating that one scout car and five Italian tanks, supported by two ME 109's were headed their way. Our "jeep" patrol fired on them and retired to cover at Station Sened. An armored column (part of Task Force Mobile Reserve) composed of Co "B" 13th AB and one platoon of Co "C", 701st TD's moved to meet the Italian tanks at 1045. The two elements met, and the Italian tanks were chased off. Our tankers reported that our field of 36 anti-tank mines disabled two Italian tanks. They also stated that the enemy was employing US jeeps. The outpost at El Guettar was shelled by enemy artillery at 1640 for ten minutes; no casualties were reported. Two men from the long range desert patrol (British 8th Army) reported to the CP at 1700. Feb 9th - Air raid alarms at 0800, 0845, 0915, and 1025. No attempt was made to attack the town. A report was received from the French that Italian tanks were attacking Djebel El Mdilla. At 0910 Capt Hughes, Lt Honecker, and one section of the 3rd Bn Anti-tank pltn departed for Mdilla. On arriving in the town of Mdilla, French officials were frantic and demanded instantaneous action. Capt Hughes went to the French CP in the mountains south of Mdilla. He was accompanied by an officer from the Derbyshire Yeomanry. They observed approximately twenty Italians, four scout cars, and one motorcycle. The men were digging gun positions on the ground occupied by the French troops. After desperate pleas from the French Col at Gafsa the Tank Co and one platoon of Tank Destroyers advanced to Mdilla. They approached the Italian position, fired a few rounds, and put the enemy to flight. The Bn Anti-tank section, occupying the pass with the French troops remained a while to see that all was well; All was quiet by 1315. A threat was reported by the Co "L," outpost at Zannouch at 1130. Our armored elements then moved to Zannouch where they engaged 8 Italian medium tanks that forced our outpost out of the Station. The Co. comdr of the Anti-tank co reported upon his return that 2 German Mark VI tanks made an appearance but, did not participate. Our outpost at Zannouch was restored at 1630. Lt Anderson of Hq Co with 6 EM from his pltn immediately left Gafsa to search the area of Zannouch for mines and booby traps. None were reported however. The telephone installations were pulled out. Seven companies of theUS Rangers arrived in Gafsa at 2100 and bivouacked at El Kasar School. 4 companies are rationed with this bn, as they have no kitchens. Feb 10th - Carried on the usual duties of the day. At 1530 we had the pleasure of seeing the Regtl Comdr for the first time since Nov 29th, 1942. He acquainted us with the current situation, and gave us his G-2 of the none too clear situation. Col Stark was accompanied by Capt Smith, Regtl S-3. Col Bowen took them on a hasty sight-seeing tour of the town and then to supper at Hq Co. The Col was quite impressed with the history and peculiar sights of the oasis we call our own. He drove thru the famous Kasbah (ancient Byzantine Fort) and the old Roman baths where naked Arabian lads dive for franc pieces. The Regtl Comdr departed for Feriana at 1800. Feb 11th - Had our routine air raid alarms at 0755, 1150, and 1640; the cry of "wolf" brought no activity from the air. The Bn S-6, S-3, and S-1 left Gafsa on recon at 1115 and returned at 1710. Reconnoitered possible routes of withdrawal from Gafsa to the vicinity of Feriana. Co "K" reported from El Guettar that an ME 109 was shot down by our aircraft. In retaliation, the Italians shelled our troops at El Guettar, but no casualties were reported. At 2145 our trucks transported three companies of the US Rangers to a position northwest of Sened where they were to make a raid on enemy positions. The Rangers were supported by our Asst Bn Surgeon Capt "Commando" Freiman. Feb 12th - Little activity during the day. The Rangers returned at 0930 after a very successful raid. They demolished several gun positions and either killed or captured or wounded several Italian troops. They returned with 11 Italian prisoners. Two of the Rangers were killed and 20 were wounded. From the looks of the prisoners tonight they were still suffering from shock and it is doubted if any Italians dare to sleep on this continent if there is an American within 50 miles of their position. S/Sgt Allen of Hq Co left with a group to set Booby traps in the vicinity of Zannouch. These are set as a warning notice for the outpost at Zannouch. The group returned at 2045 - mission accomplished. Feb 13th - Unit comdrs meeting at 1130. Two enemy tanks and one large lorry were already demolished or at least put out of action by the newly laid mine field of the night before. An air mission was requested to strafe and bomb the injured vehicles but it was refused as an unprofitable mission. Bn S-1, Sgt Major Shine, and Personnel Section went to Regtl Hq on Bn business for the day. Report received at 1450 that Lt Megrail of Co "L," having tripped over a booby trap and being seriously injured. (Later Lt Megrail died, of same injuries). At 1900 this date replacements for bn arrived consisting of 4 officers and 24 enlisted men. Feb 14th - A report was received in the Bn CP of the enemy breakthrough in the Sidi Bou Zid - Faid area. Rumors were rampant as to the force of the enemy, the seriousness of the situation, and how it would effect us at Gafsa sector. Early in the evening the Personnel Section, all of the Bn barracks bags, and heavy supplies were sent by truck back to Feriana. By 1900 hours the Bn was on an alert status pending orders. The orders came thru to evacuate and from early in the evening to dawn the next day the Gafsa - Feriana road witnessed the heaviest traffic to date. It was a thrilling experience, as in any mass movement, and was not without its humorous aspect. the French evacuees bearing their comical bundles, rolls, and equipment; Mm LaZonga and her six charming daughters who evacuated with the GI's, and the civilians with their household goods and children and livestock all tended to add a note of gaiety to the serious situation. However the troops were all evacuated successfully by morning of the 15th with no casualties. Feb 15th - The Bn established a CP about 8 miles east of Feriana where the Bn remained in tactical bivouac. We maintained radio and telephone communication with Regt in Feriana and had telephone communication with the companies of the Bn. A liaison group from the 33rd FA joined us in the CP. A co comdrs meeting was held at 1800 hours. Feb 16th and 17th - About two thirty in the afternoon of the 16th we could hear firing in the direction of Gafsa and saw a few of our tanks and half-tracks going down the road in that direction. The Bn was alerted for a possible move at 1800 hours and the bed rolls were collected but redistributed. "I" Co sent out two patrols that reported enemy sneaking thru our lines. (5 "I" Co men reported missing from these patrols) At 0200 hrs the Bn was awakened and prepared to withdraw. Bn entrucked at bivouac area at 0520 and travelled by truck past Thelepte to the mountain ridge Dj Dernaia. This move was an experience too, as the sky was red with burning ammunition, gas supplies, etc. at Thelepte Airport and in the distance could be heard the sound of heavy firing. After establishing a CP at Dj Dernaia, Co "L" and one section of the AT platoon and two men from the Intelligence section moved to Dj Kzaret Sidi Zaid to defend the pass. At 0950 the rest of the Bn moved to Bou Chebka after stopping near Depot Alfa Sultan where the kitchens fed us, literally, on the fly. At 1700 hours the Bn began to move to Kzaret Sidi Zaid to establish the defense of the pass. After a hazardous trip in the dark up the mountains the bn arrived at the pass about 2200 hours. Feb 18th - The kitchen train moved up to the pass to remain with the units. The CP was moved to a new and more permanent position. The following units were attached to the Bn: 26th Cannon Co, one Bn of the 33rd FA, and the 26th Anti-tank Company. Gen Ward and Col Stark visited the Bn positions and CP at 1600 - 1730 hours. Feb 19th - We again became a Task Force with Col Bowen in command. The following units composed the Bowen Task Force: 3rd Bn 26th Inf, Sv Co 26th, AT Co 26th, Co "C" 1st Engrs, Btry "C" 106th AA, CO "B" 13th Armd regt, 443rd AA, Btry "A" 68th FA. The staff of the Task Force was as follows: Col Bowen, S-6; Capt Dulligan, S-4; Lt Glisson, S-3; Capt Dreier, S-1 and S-2. February 20th - February 28th - Generals Ward and McMillan in sector to review positions. The Bn continued to construct defensive positions and patrols were sent out by Companies "K" and "L" - each returned reporting no contact with any enemy. Mine fields were laid and guarded. The Intelligence Section established and manned a CP. The OP's of the 3rd Bn and TF were consolidated and moved to a new position. At 0600 on the 20th the Cannon Co was called away on a mission. During the night of the 22nd the 813th TD Bn and the 175th FA moved in with us. Patrols sent out by Companies "K" and "L" were fired upon SW at Feria. A unit comdrs meeting was held in the CP at 1400 hours on the 23rd and Lt Greenwood and party of the British Recon unit the Derbyshire Yeomanry joined us as liaison with their unit. On the 23rd Gen Roosevelt and some of the 1st Recon were in the CP. Gen Allen visited the Task Force positions and CP on the 24th. None of the patrols sent out reported any enemy contact. On the 25th a mine removing detail from the Co "C", 1st engrs was called for by S-3. On Feb 26th the Bn was semi-alerted awaiting orders to move and again the patrols reported no contact. The British Liaison group of the Derbyshire Yeomanry left our area on the 27th and our billeting party for the new bivouac area left at 1100 hours. The night of the 27th the 47th Inf took over our positions and relieved the 3rd Bn. The Bn left by truck at 0200 hours Feb 28th and arrived at new bivouac area in the vicinity of Marsat at 0700 that morning. The day was spent in preparing bivouacs and church services were held late in the afternoon. Mar 1st - A Co comdrs meeting was held in the CP at 0900. 1st Sgt Lewis Clancy, crusty old 1st Sgt of Co "M" was transferred to Regt at Regtl Sgt Major. Showers were enjoyed by most of the Bn. Mar 2nd - We were all sorry to lose our Bn Comdr Lt Col Bowen who was transferred to Regtl Hq as Regtl Ex Off. Maj Corley became acting Bn S-6 and Capt Grant Bn S-5. A co comdrs meeting was held in the Regtl CP at 1800 hours. Mar 3rd - The Bn was alerted for a move at 1000 hours. The day was spent in preparation for the move and police up of the bivouac area. The Bn entrucked at 1900 hours, crossed the IP at 2050 hours, order of convoy: I K L M & Hq. Capt Seitz joined Bn as Comdr of Co "I". Mar 4th 5th & 6th - The Bn arrived at destination new Bou Araba where we relieved an English unit at 0700 hours. Companies moved into positions from 100-1600 hours. Rear and forward CP's established the forward CP later used as OP by the Bn Intel Sect. Mortar fire in the co areas all day. Much firing along line MG, arty, and mortar all night by enemy and French forces on our right flank. Lt Anderson and 33rd FA liaison group joined the CP. At 1645 4 ME 109's strafed some jeeps and an ambulance in our sector. On march 5th there was some enemy air activity but no damage done. A co comdrs meeting was held in the CP at 0900 and patrols were sent out as usual. On the 6th we again saw enemy planes - no damage and sent our the usual patrols. Mar 7th 8th - On Mar 7th Maj Derrill M. Daniel assumed command of the Bn; Capt Dreier went to Regt as S-2, Capt Grant to Regt as S-3; and Capt Yerkes joined us as Bn S-2. Our OP reported Austrians digging in to our front with a field piece. On Mar 8th the Bn was alerted for a possible move, enemy air activity witnessed, and the usual night firing took place. Mar 9th - The Bn entrucked at 0515, crossed the IP at 0530, order of convoy: K I L Hq & M. Arrived at Le Kef at 1110 hours where "Frenchie" T/4 Joseph Archambault was killed when a British tank crashed into the rear of Hq Co kitchen truck. The Bn again entrucked at 1310 and resumed its way to Bou Chebka and arrived there at 1830. Companies of Bn in tactical bivouac. Feb 10th - 14th - While in position at Bou Chebka our time was spent in resting, care and cleaning of equipment, etc. Night problems were held for the line companies mortar sections; and on Sunday religious services were held. Feb 15th - The Bn comdr, Maj Daniels, held a meeting of the entire Bn personnel at 1030 hrs. He addressed the meeting, introducing himself and the Bn staff officers. He reviewed what we's learned, what to expect on future operations, and what he expected of his men. Maj Rainey spoke on field sanitation; Maj Corley read appropriate AW's, and the Co comdrs were introduced. At 1300 hours the Bn was alerted to move and the afternoon was spent in preparation. At 2000 hours the Bn entrucked, crossed IP at 2030 hours, order of convoy: I K Hq M & L. Arrived at bivouac area (Feriana) at 2200 hours and established CP. The 3rd Bn reverted to the Bowen Task Force with the following units atchd: 1 Plt A-T co; 1 Plt Cn Co; 1 Btry 33rd FA; 1st Recon group; 1st Signal group; Air Ground Liaison unit; and 15 additional medics and 3 ambulances. Feb 16th - Task Force entrucked at 1830 and crossed IP at 1935 arrived at new bivouac area at 2315 hours. Distanced travelled by truck 51 miles over GI engineer road. Field Order No. 1 and Annex distributed at 1720 hours. (FO #1 and Annex attached). Mar 17th - TF comdr; Bn S-6, S-3, S-1 on recon at 0630 hrs. TF comdr maintained a rolling CP for operation. Co "I" moved into position by Btry "A", 33rd FA at 0830. Bn entrucked at 1250 to move to objective - advance held up by mines. Bn arrived at outskirts of Gafsa at 1730 and bivouacked in rain there for night. Mar 18th - The bn moved into billets in city of Gafsa for the day on account of the rain. While awaiting further orders a CP was established in the Nouvel Hotel. The kitchen train moved up in the evening. Mar. 19th - The Bn entrucked at 0800 hours to move into positions outside Gafsa for the defense of the city. A CP was established at.0850. Mar. 20th - The Bn was again alerted to move out - mission to support Rangers in taking and securing high ground at pass beyond El Guettar. Bn entrucked at 2100 hours crossed IP at 2200 hours order I K L Hq & M. Reached Bn assembly area at 2330. Mar. 21st 22nd - Marched ?? miles to positions in early hours of morning. Arty active - 3 casualties sustained by Co "K". By 1700 hours all objectives had been taken and Bn moved out to bivouac area. While on way to bivouac area troops were strafed by Stukas and the Regtl CP was bombed. Arrived at bivouac area at 1810 and established a CP with companies in position to defend and hold the pass. An OP was established by the Bn Intelligence Section and patrols were sent out by companies. "I" Co established a listening post along road. The 22nd was spent quietly in positions until 2130 hours when we were again alerted to move. Mar. 23rd - The Bn left the bivouac area at 0130 hours for new positions; marched 9 miles by foot and reached destination at 0510 hours. Orders were received to move back at 0730 so the troops were moved to assembly area by shuttling (truck). At 1330 the Bn marched or rather advanced to positions on left of Co "C". 88 prisoners were taken. From then on the Bn was under heavy arty and mortar fire; many casualties were suffered. Co "C" was attached to the bn. Enemy air attacks on bn positions at 1600 hours. Lt Anderson and his liaison party again joined the CP group. Mar. 24th - The Bn was under constant mortar fire, arty fire and MG fire. A shell hit in the Bn CP injuring PFC Richie (died later), PFC Crawford, Pvt Carter, and the runner from Co "C". Co "I" patrol at 1600 hours contacted enemy MG nest and drove them off with bazooka guns. An OP was established and manned by the Bn Intel Sect. Flares were observed in enemy territory all night. Mar. 25th - Co "K" sent out a patrol to reconnoiter left flank and contact 2nd Bn. Bn withdrew under heavy arty and MG fire at 1145. "L" co protected our withdrawal. New positions established on right flank of Co "E". The 27th Panzer Brigade was reported to attack the 1st Div tomorrow. Maj Daniel aptd Lt Col as of 19th. Mar 26th - Bn S-6 and S-3 on recon of the Bn defensive positions at 0700 hours. All units of the 3rd in were warned to use transp. at a minimum because of the shelling. Co,"L" was instructed to send out a patrol under Cpl Secka (16th CT) to contact Col Crawford and learn his exact dispositions and intentions. Co "K" sent out a patrol to reconnoiter the area we'd just withdrawn from - they were fired upon by Italians hiding in wadi at close range. Mar. 27th - The day was spent quietly in defensive positions. Lt Hoover, Comdr of Co "M"was killed by shrapnel on his way to a Co Comdrs meeting in the Bn CP at 1300 hours. All the time we were in this position we were under sporadic arty fire, Mar. 28th - The Bn left bivouac at 0415 hours and marched approximately 3 miles to our first objective arriving there at 0630 hours. We had radio communication with the 16th CT and the 26th CT by 0645. Again Lt Anderson and his party of the 33rd FA were with us as liaison group. An officer from AFHQ was with us on this operation as an observer. An OP was established and manned by the Bn Intel Section at 0900.hours. The CP moved forward and was reestablished at the following times: 1030-1050; .1305-1330; 1440-1445. The second objective of the Bn was obtained at 1530. Two German prisoners were brought into the CP by Maj Corley and Pvt Felix DeFelice having been captured by them when they neutralized two MG nests that were holding up the advance of the whole Bn. The Bn proceeded with the attack at 1745 and beat off a counter-attack. Mar 29th - The Bn CP was moved to a new location at 0615 and a new OP was established by the Intel Section at 0800 and another one at 0930 - telephone communication with both OP's. The Bn S-5 reconnoitered for a new CP position at 1630 and the CP group moved in at 1715. Co "I" gained objective, hill No. 482, at 1830. No contact with Co "L" all day. All night long there was much enemy air activity - bombing to our rear and flares being dropped all around us. Mar. 30th 31st April 1st 2nd 3rd - Lt Woods of Co "L" arrived in the CP at 0630 having travelled all night of find the CP with the good news that Co "L" held the high ground five ridges beyond Co "I". At 0900 hours we were visited by the Regtl S-6 and S-5 who looked over the positions of our companies. At 1000 hours Gen Roosevelt visited the CP and went on to "I" Co position. Many prisoners were brought into the CP and were interrogated by S-2 and brought up to the PW stockade by the Intell. Sect. They were utilized as carriers for rations and ammunition to the line companies and as stretcher bearers by Chaplain Chase and the Medics. Natives with burros were also used for the same purpose. All night the same enemy air activity was carried on. The Bn was semi-alerted for a possible move and on Mar. 31st Co "I" withdrew from its forward position and the remainder of the Bn gradually came in from their positions. The day was spent sweating out orders to move. Enemy planes came over the Bn area several times and our own air patrols were active. Everybody was sweating out the 8th Army and its progress and were all glad to hear of its successes. On Apr 1st the Bn had the privilege of occupying ringside seats at the "Dogfight Classic" when two large enemy bombers (Dorniers II), escorted by ME 109's met our patrol with favorable results - we watched one Dornier crash in flames and the other hurry off badly damaged. Again at 1730 hours and at 1810 hours enemy planes were driven off by our patrol. Apr 2nd began with air activity and another alert for a possible move. Co "L" and 1 plat .30 cal MG Co "M" in Regtl reserve securing the high ground to the front; 3rd Bn less Co "L" and atchment in Div reserve. Co "K" to patrol all draws to investigate any enemy infiltration also to contact the 16th CT. Co "L" to occupy hill No. 482 and entire Co "K" moved out to secure right rear of Div. April 3rd Co "L" moved out at 0630 to hill 482 and the hilly mass in vicinity of 482 was secured by 0800. Co "L" shelled on S flank by 88mm guns from vicinity of DJ Keroura. Div CP began moving into our area at 1400 hours. Apr. 4th - The Bn area was bombed at 0840 the enemy using the new personnel "Butterfly" bombs. The Bn entrucked at 1030: order Hq M I K & L; and travelled approximately 16 miles by truck to a temporary bivouac northwest of Gafsa and remained there until 1945 hours. We entrucked again and in the same order travelled approximately 85 miles to positions east of Sbeittla where arrived at 0130 hours Apr 5th. The orders received by the Bn S-6 were as follows: "To CO 3rd Bn 26th CT fr CG 1st Div - 'Move your Bn by infiltration at 1000 hours to a bivouac area N of Gafsa pick out an assemble area, send a liaison officer to II Corps, Contact Col Williams. 133rd Inf CP Sbeittla to get mission and employment. Move Bn and 1 btry 65th FA atchd to Sbeittla starting 2000 hours. Keep contact with Div Hq by phone or liaison from present CP until your Bn has cleared present bivouac. CO 65th FA will report to your CP for necessary arrangement. Your atchments will be 1 section Co "C" 1st Medics, and 1 btry 65th FA. Trucks (15) will be furnished by G-4 to shuttle your troops to be returned.' Allen, CG, 0907." Apr. 5th - Bn S-6 went to GHQ for Instructions and the Co Comdrs went on recon of the sector. The Bn moved into defensive positions at 1945 hours approximately 3 miles. Our mission at this time was the defense of the sector. The troops received a clothing issue and the kitchen train moved up with the units. Bn S-1 went Marsat for replacements at 1830. The Bn at this time was under the control of Col Williams' force. The Bn defensive position was in the form of a circle with the TD Bn within our lines. Position established at Oued el Aclam. Apr. 6th - Co "L" alerted for move at 0810 hours. Co Comdrs meeting in CP at 0830. Bn alerted to move at 1220 hours. The Bn entrucked at 1945 hours and moved approximately 26 miles to Le Souda vicinity. Bn S-1 returned at 1600 from Varsat to pick up detail to bring in replacements. Those replacements (95 EM) arrived at 1700 hours and were temporarily assigned. Co "I", with Maj Corley in command accompanied by Pvt Pellington, left by motor at 2030 to positions at Le Souda - one Tank Co and one TD Co attached. Apr. 7th - The Bn remained in defensive positions and the Co Comdrs held a meeting in the CP at 1430 hours. The Bn now came under the supervision and command of Gen McQuillan. An OP was established and manned by the Bn Intel Section. Wire communication was established with the other units of the force by the Bn Comm Section. The Bn was alerted to move to join Co "I" at Djebel Le Souda. Apr. 8th - Unit comdrs to meeting at TF CP at 1500 hours. Capt Zerkes, Bn S-2 and Lt Murphy Bn Coff Off, relieved of asgmt to Bn and Asgnd to Regtl Hq. Lt Minster joined the Bn as Comm officer. Bn S-1 and all 1st Sgts of the Bn left for Marsat at 1200. The Bn was alerted at 1830 hours to leave by motor for new defensive positions. The first elements of the Bn left the area at 2045 hours and the last elements left at 0330 Apr 9th. Apr. 9th - CP established in new positions at 0650 and was later moved to new location. Some enemy arty thrown at us in the morning. An OP was established and manned by 1 plat of Co "K" in the mountains overlooking Faid Pass. No contact was made and little activity seen around the pass. Apr. 10th - Co Comdrs meeting in CP at 1400. Information about the 8th Army being just S of Faid Pass gladly received by the Bn. Bn S-5, Pvt Heffernan, led a recon of 5 tanks into pass - saw nothing. Heavy bombing took place in pass at 2300 hours and lasted for an hour. Flames from supply dumps were visible all night. Apr. 11th - The Bn still held its outpost on DJ Lessouda. First contact with the Allied Troops was a patrol from the 8th Army that advanced thru Faid Pass. The Bn received orders to move to the Bn assembly area at 0900 hours (one mile W of Lessouda). This position was not in accordance with the wishes of the CG 1st Inf Div so another move was effected. At this time the Bn was released from attachment to the lst Armored Div by II Corps after much debate. The Bn then shuttled to an assembly area near a water point two miles W of Sbeittla. Before leaving out first area casualties were incurred in Co "L" due to a "Bouncing Baby" - 1 killed and 10 wounded. Apr 12th - The Bn spent the morning in the assembly area at Sbeittla getting much needed baths at a pumping station. Trucks arrived at 1230 to transport the Bn to Div assembly area in El Meradj. The Bn left for a new area at 1330 arriving at the destination at 1830 - order of convoy: Hq. I K L & M. One truck load of men from Co "L" ran over a mine causing three injuries. Apr. 13th, 14th, 15th - These three days were spent in bivouac near Marsat in the same positions we had occupied before. The days were spent in rest, care and cleaning of equipment, new clothing issue, and the carrying loads of clothing, etc. were reduced to the bare necessities. On the 14th the Bn S-5, S-3, Pvt's Pellington and Heffernan left on a recon. At 1030 at a Bn formation awards were presented by Gen Roosevelt. On Apr 15th the Bn was alerted to move; a Co Comdrs meeting at 1620; and the recon party returned to the area at 2100 hours. Apr. 16th - The Bn entrucked at 0430, crossed the IP at 0450: order of convoy: L K Hq & M. We arrived in the bivouac area in the vicinity of La Calle at 1640 hours after having travelled by motor approximately 150 miles. This was merely a temporary bivouac area as we were awaiting orders. Gas masks and mosquito nets were issued to the troops. Apr. 17th - The Bn remained in bivouac until 1415 hours when we again entrucked and traveled 32 miles and on orders of II Corps halted temporarily with orders not to pass thru Beja until 0300 hours. The kitchen train came up and fed hot dinner at 1930. The Bn again entrucked at 2330 and proceeded to detrucking area about 3 miles reaching there at 0330 hours. The Bn then marched on foot 5 miles to temporary position at 0330 and established a CP at 0400. Apr. 18th - The day was spent in the temporary positions and the companies moved into the positions held by the British accomplishing the relief by 0200 hours on the 19th. The kitchens came up twice daily with hot food - early morning and after dark at night. Apr. 19th - The Bn Staff was changed as follows: Col Daniel transferred to 2nd Bn; Maj Corley became our new CO; Capt Garvey became S-5, Lt Picker S-4, Capt Hughes S-3, Lt Woods S-2, and Lt Wehrle S-1 and Comdr of Hq Co. Bn S-6 went to a Bn Comdrs meeting at Regt at 1515; the Co Comdrs met in the Bn CP at 1700. Gen Bradley inspected positions of Bn at 1630 - 1700 hours. (Gen Order No. 9 atchd). Apr. 20th - The Bn remained in positions (Hunt Gap). S-6 went to a meeting at Regtl Hq at 1500 and the Co Comdrs met at the I Co CP at 1630. An OP as established and manned by the Bn Intel Sect. Patrols were sent out by Companies "K" and "L". Apr. 21st - The Bn staff went to a meeting at Regt at 1400. Co "L" moved into a forward position during the early night. Patrol and recon. activity as usual. Apr. 22nd - The mosquito nets and gas masks just recently issued to the troops were turned in. Co Comdrs Meeting in CP at 2200 hours. Sgt White awarded the Silver Star. Co "K" established an OP within 200 yds of the enemy. Co "L" suffered casualties: 2 wounded, 1 MIA. Apr. 23rd - Another D day and H Hour - Apr 23rd Friday 0300 hours! The mission of the Bn to block the valley SE of Djebal Gimble. Atchd to the Bn were "A" Co of the 13th Armored Regt and Co "C" of the 70lst TD Bn as well as an atchmt of the 1st Medics. "K" Co attacked DJ Gimble at 0300 - 1 killed and 2 wounded. The wire to the "K" Co OP on hill No. 407 was cut during the night but the OP was not molested. Bn S-6 and S-5 went to the forward positions on recon. at 0530. 12 men from Co "I" were pinned down by MG and small arms fire on hill 407 but withdrew successfully under cover of smoke laid on by the 33rd FA. Patrols and road block security were established at night as usual. Apr. 24th - The Bn again alerted to move - positions to be taken over by the 1st Bn of the 168th Inf. Bn S-6 and S-2 on recon at 1400 returned at 1900 hours. Bn S-5 and all Co Executive Officers to a meeting White CP at 1730. Bn moved to the assembly at 1800 hours and moved out at 1910 hours; order of march K L I Hq & M. Bn arrived in temporary position at 2215 and moved into the attack at 2330 hours. Apr. 25th - The Bn arrived at the base of our objective at 0200 hours. One of the heaviest arty barrages of our experience was heard and felt from 0130-0200 hours and the Bn advanced under a rolling barrage from 0200-0300 hours. Bn advanced to the 1st objective and took it at 1000 hours having met no resistance. The attack was then pushed forward. The CP moved to a forward position at 1330 hours and the old CP was maintained until 1500 hours. The CP group and Hq Co remained in CP position overnight while the remainder of the Bn pushed forward. Apr. 26th - Dextrose Red advanced thru us at 0700-0800 hours. CP moved forward and established a rear and forward CP. OP's established by Bn Intel Section. Ammo, water, and ration DP established in vicinity of CP (Bir Touta). Intermittent mortar and arty fire both ways. Ammo & Pion Plat under Sgt Allen laid mines on highway. Apr. 27th - "M" Co reported having knocked out a mortar OP at 0800 hours. Regtl S-2 arrived in CP at 1400 hours semi-alerting Bn for possible move. Arabs and mules drafted into service to haul water, rations, and ammo. Members of the Bn conducted a very successful "chicken hunt" by which we all benefited. Co "I" sent out a patrol to feel out the next objective and were pinned down by cross MG fire. A graphic account of their predicament was phoned into the Bn CP by Cpl Larkin & Lt Willis (FOO, 33rd FA). "M" Co and Arty cooperated by mortar fire, smoke, etc. to cover withdrawal of the trapped squad. S-6, S-3, to Regt to meeting. Move postponed. "I" Co patrol returned after dark.- 3 casualties, 3 missing. Apr. 28th - Bn alerted to move forward at 1030 hours. Order of advance: L Adv CP I K M Hq. Returned to original positions at 1300 hours; Bn S-6 with Red Bn. Bn moved out at 2030 hours to assume positions left of 18th CT and right of 2nd Bn 26th CT. CO "L" to contact 16th CT by patrol. Apr. 29th - Bn assumed new positions at 0245, Co "I" patrol out to contact 18th CT elements at 2030 hours. Listening posts were established by line co.'s and an OP by S-2 and Bn Intel Sect. Heavy arty fire received by Bn all day. Apr. 30th - The Bn was alerted for a possible counter-attack which was successfully driven off. May 1st 2nd and 3rd - The day was spent in position. - subjected to mortar and arty fire. The Bn Intel Sect and the line co's established and manned OP's and listening posts and patrols. Some casualties due to mortar and arty fire. May 4th - With the enemy having withdrawn from our front, the Bn moved out at 1030 hours travelled by foot twelve (12) miles approximately - order of march L K I M & Hq. Arrived at Sidi Aboud Bout at 1900. Encountered no enemy resistance but the road way was being shelled by 88's. Cpl Brownell of Hq Co was injured when a two and one half ton truck threw a large rock breaking one of his legs. May 5th - Bn left Sidi Abed Bout at 0600 marched by foot to El Mezzoui and assumed positions by 1745. May 6th - Bn moved from Mezzoui at 0135 order of march L I K Hq M. The Bn attacked at 0300- objective was hill mass east of Oued Tine and Mateur Road. Attack was ordered late so a complete recon. was not permitted. Co "L" assaulted enemy positions with bayonets inflicting many casualties. The Bn area was bombed by enemy aircraft 4 times at 0530, 0700, 1020, and 1515. May 7th - Two jeeps were wrecked due to mines - PFC's Zount and Hoffernan died due to injuries received; others, Pvt's Brown and Pellington injured seriously from same accident. The advance of the bn was held up at 0930 due to Heavy MG and mortar fire. The Bn CP was heavily shelled for over an hour causing more casualties. Lt Romano and 5 aid men were also injured due to mines. Co's K & I suffered heavy arty and automatic fire all day. All approaches to the objective were well covered by automatic fire. Gained contact with Co "L" when ammo carriers came back. At dark the Bn was prepared to attack, but Regt called the plan off and ordered the bn to withdraw. Enroute to the rear, Co's K & I were raided with a few casualties. Could not contact Capt Morrissey and one platoon of Co "L". May 8th - Co ''L" reached objective as scheduled - 1st Sgt Egan believed to have been killed in action, but later turned up as wounded and in enemy hands. Wire was run to Co "L" and contact was finally established. Co "L" remained in position and continued to harass the enemy. Remainder of Co "L" pulled back at dark. Col Corley was slightly wounded by shell fragments. May 9th - Capt Morrissey was the last man of Co "L" to check in at 0230. One entire LMG section was captured. At 1145 it was believed that the enemy had vacated our former objective. Lt Woods and 15 men moved to our former objective and found only two stragglers. This party maintained an OP for the remainder of the day. May 10th & 11th - On May 10th the Armistice in Tunisia was declared much to the satisfaction and pleasure of everybody. The 2 days of the 10th and 11th were spent in much needed rest. The Regtl band came into our area on the 11th to entertain us. Some members of the bn went to Tunis for a look - this baby campaign cost Sgt Major Shine a pair of teeth and innumerable sore bones. May 12th - The Bn entrucked at 0800 left the vicinity of Djebel Mezzoura at 0830 and journeyed 195 miles to Guelma where we spent the night. May 13th 14th 15th & 16th - The bn transp. loaded with equipment and personnel left the bivouac area at 0630 to begin the long trip West to the vicinity of Oran. The remainder of the bn entrucked at 1600 and journeyed 8 miles to El Guerrah. The personnel of the bn then entrained into cars marked 40 & 8 famous in song and story. Lt Col Corley was train comdr; rations were prepared and consumed in the cars; the populace welcomed us in each stopping place. Following is the route travelled by train and convoy: ******** unreadable******** May 17th - The day was spent in preparing the camp area, putting up pyramidal tents, recreation, cleaning up, etc. May 18th - The organization of the bn area was further organized and at 1030 a bn formation was addressed by Lt Col Corley and by Maj Rainey, the Bn Surgeon. May 19th 20th - Usual camp duties; recreation, etc. May 21st - The Bn attended the Regtl formation at which time the troops were addressed by Col Bowen, Regtl Comdr, and awards were made. Group pictures were taken in the afternoon; and in the evening six officer replacements arrived, unassigned. May 22nd - Usual Camp duties. May 23rd - A Division Memorial Service was held at Div Hq - well attended by the members of the bn. May 24th - Requiem Mass held in the Cathedral in Oran honoring our dead - attended by many of the bn. Officers' party in the evening (see FO No. 5, attached). May 25th - Usual camp duties. Recreational trips to Oran, care and cleaning equipment, etc. May 26th - Regtl Parade at 1315 hours. The billeting detail left to our new bivouac area. May 27th 28th - The bn left Sidi Chaini by truck at 1300 hours. Two trips were made to shuttle the troops; distance travelled by truck approximately 18 miles. The new bivouac area was very familiar territory being Djebel Murdjadjo, our objective in the initial landing in North Africa. Our base camp was established near the Djebel; pyramidal tents erected which seemed palatial to the troops after spending so much time with no tents at all or pup tents only. May 29th - The bn left the base camp by truck at 0830 hours, travelled 4 miles, arrived at the beach at Mers-El-Kebir, and loaded onto LCI's. The troops travelled about 1/2 a mile to the training ship AP-13 (USS Dickman) and practiced loading and unloading of LCA's for the remainder of the morning. The afternoon was devoted to recreation - trucks to Oran, rest, etc. The troops remained aboard. May 30th - The Bn left base camp at 0845, marched 4 miles to the beach at Mers-El - Kebir and loaded on LCA's (those troops who remained ashore). When the remainder of the troops of the bn arrived aboard the Dickman, everyone loaded onto LCA's (tactically) at 0845. rendezvoused until 0930 and then travelled 15 miles by water to Les Andelouses beach which recalled many memories of our initial landing. After landing the troops marched about 1/2 a mile inland to the Bn assembly area, returned to the beach, had lunch and swam, and returned to the Dickman at 1645. Aboard the Dickman the good "navy chow", ice cream and Coca Cola at the PX, and movies in the ship's recreation room were all enjoyed by the bn. May 31st - Again the bn loaded on LCA's at 1130 hours, rendezvoused until "H" hour which was 0540 hours and travelled by water to Les Andalouses beach. Companies "I" & "K" landed in the assault at "H" hour, followed by Hq Co and Co "L" (reserve co.) and Co "M". Marched inland to the Bn assembly area (1/2 mile), returned to the beach, reloaded on the LCA's and returned to the Dickman at 1030. The same evening the troops gathered in the hold at 2100 hours awaiting the orders for the main problem. June 1st - The Bn loaded on LCA's at 0945 hours rendezvoused off the Dickman until 1100 hours; left rendezvous area at 1100 and travelled by water approximately 15 miles to Les Andelouses beach at 0200 hours. After landing the troops marched to the Bn assembly which incidentally was the same one used on our initial landing. The whole problem as a matter of fact was almost identical with our initial landing. Upon arriving at the assembly areas, a grenade was thrown by our simulated enemies and landed among the men of Hq Co, injuring 20 men 17 of whom were hospitalized. Co "I" took and secured the town of Bou Sfer at 0330 hours and the bn advanced to base camp, thru Bou Sfer - 9 miles - arriving at 0530 hours (See atchd Landing Problem No. 1). The same day 61 replacements arrived in the evening. June 2nd - The replacements were assigned to the various companies. Line companies trained in the street fighting, bayonet, and combat areas. June 3rd - Line companies trained in the courses designated during the morning and the afternoon was devoted to recreation. S-2 attended Intel. School. June 4th - The Bn marched to the beach (7 miles) at Mers-El-Kebir for training in loading and landing from LCI's. Returned to base at 1615 hours. A dance was held in Oran at the Red Cross Club for members of the 26th Inf. with music by the 26th Band. June 5th - Companies of the Bn left base camp at 0700 for beach at Mers-El-Kebir for more loading and landing practices. Marched back to base camp arrived there at 1230. Again at 1930 the Bn moved to the same beach for night training in the same problem. Returned to base camp at 2330 and coffee was served to the troops. Lots of blisters and chafed members were enjoyed by the troops from marching in wet clothes. June 6th - Church services, Cath & Prot were held in the bn area at 1000. The bn moved out at 1300 for the beach at Mers-El-Kebir for more practice loading & landing LCIs. Two operations in the afternoon and one in the evening. Returned to camp at 2230 and coffee was served. June 7th - Again at 0700 the bn moved out for the beach for loading and landing problem. The LCI in which Hq Co & Co "I" were to use was beached immovably and the members of these two companies returned to camp at 1300. Companies "K", "L", & "M" travelled to Les Andalouses beach where they unloaded and were taken back to camp by trucks. June 8th - A billeting party left for Regtl Hq at 0530 their destination unknown. Shots were administered to members of the Bn by the medics and the remainder of the day was spent in recreation. Trucks were available to go to town. June 9th - Day spent in preparation for move. June 10th - The vehicle convoy left camp at 0500 destination unknown. Sgt Major Shine and Col Corley went aboard the USS Barnett. The advance detail from Companies "I", "K", & "L" went aboard the USS Dickman. June 11th - Troops of the bn left the bivouac area at : "I", "K", and "L" at 0730 and boarded the USS Dickman; Hq Co and Co "M" at 0800 and boarded the USS Barnett. Troops walked to the dock. Lt Col Corley was Troop Comdr aboard and Lt Lussenden Troop Adjutant. All night was spent making up sailing rosters. June 12th - Day spent aboard our respective boats the Barnett & the Dickman at sea. The convoy left Oran harbor at 1000 hours. Travelled about 250 miles by sea. June 13th - Convoy arrived at Algiers harbor at 0800 troops debarked at 1330. The bn entrucked and rode 18 miles by truck to new bivouac area near Stoueli arrived at 1630. June 14th - Day spent in making camp comfortable as possible and the afternoon in recreation - to Algiers, and nearby towns. Bn S-5 to meeting at Div at 1030. June 15th - The bn hiked from 0800 - 1100 hours. Distance 7 miles. Troops were free in the afternoon for swimming, drinking, going to town, etc. 91 EM & 2 officers arrived at 1500 hours and were immediately assigned to the various companies (replacements). June 16th - Morning spent in practice of Battle Drill as prescribed by the Bn S-5 in the attached Training Memorandum. Afternoon free for troops. June 17th - Col Corley attended a meeting at Regtl Hq at 1400 hours. The companies drilled in the morning and devoted the afternoon to recreation. June 18th - A 11.3 mile bn hike was held from 0800 to 1145 in the morning. Troops were restricted until 1400 hours to clean up the bivouac area. The remainder of the day was free. An officer's dance was held in the evening. June 19th - Battle drill competition was held at 0900 hours in the drill area. Company "K" won and arrangements were made for the winning squad to stay overnight in Algiers. June 20th - Church services in area and recreation. June 21st - Co training by companies. Meeting of all officers of the bn at Bn CP at 1300 and at Retl Hq at 1330 hours. Bazooka squads fired guns on firing beach in the morning. Bn alerted to move at 1730. Companies shuttled to docks by truck beginning at 0830 - however, quite a distance was covered by foot. The last elements of the bn were loaded aboard LCI's at 2245. Co "I" aboard LCI No. 192 " "K" " " 193 " "L" " " 190 " "M" " " 191 Hq. Co. " " 233 June 22nd & 23rd - Days spent aboard LCI's. Not much water, none for shaving or washing. Coffee was served for breakfast, "C" rations at noon, and a hot meal at night. The evening of the 23rd was spent in preparing packs, etc. for problem on the 24th. June 24th - Bn assembled in holds of various LCI's preparatory to landing problem. Hot coffee served to troops. Troops made tactical landing from LCI's at 0415 hours. Bn in support of 1st and 2nd Bns. Marched inland 1000 yds to check point, resumed march inland to bn assembly area. Advanced inland 4 miles to point where blown up bridge halted advance of bn. Bn rerouted to follow up Red & White Bns. Route of march under heavy arty fire. Regtl S-6 in CP at 1410 and again at 1440 when he announced problem officially finished. Bn entrucked at 1530 and returned to camp. June 25th - Day spent in bivouac area - cleaning clothing, arms, etc. Passes to Algiers in afternoon. June 26th - Bn alerted to move after noon meal. Bn entrucked at 1525 moved 18 miles to Port of Algiers, loaded onto respective LCI's. Passes to town for troops until 2200. June 27th 28th & 29th - Day spent aboard LCI's. Left harbor of Algiers at 0930 Tunis - bound. Arrived at La Goulette harbor, Tunis, at 1130 hours the morning of July 29th. LCI's docked at 1500 hours and troops debarked at 1600 hours. Bn marched 1 & 1/2 miles to embussing point and entrucked on British lorries and rode 7 miles to Bn bivouac area - arriving there at 1750 hours. Our new bivouac area was approximately 3 miles from the outskirts of Tunis. June 30th - Companies of the bn hiked (by companies) approximately 9 miles 0800 -1145 hours in the morning. Training by platoons in the afternoon. Trucks were available to take the troops to the beach near Carthage in the afternoon. July lst thru 4th - From Jul 1st to Jul 4th the bn remained in bivouac near Tunis enjoying poor food, heat, no entertainment, and being restricted to the Bn area - Virginia 8. Each morning was devoted to a 9 mile hike by companies and platoon training in the afternoon. The bn purchased a barrel of wine for the troops; some Arabs came in the area to cut hair and sell wine. Church services were held on Sunday for Prot. & Cath. While here we were under control of the 168th Infantry. July 5th.- Bn entrucked at 0800 and travelled approximately 4 & ½ miles to the assembly area where we detrucked and waited about an hour, entrucked again and went to the debussing point, where we detrucked again and marched 1 & ½ miles to the LCI's arriving there at 1130. The LCI's pulled away from the docks at 1430 to assemble with the convoy. Swimming by the troops was enjoyed from the sides of the LCI's. July 6th - Convoy left harbor (Tunis) at 0230 travelled all day in general SE direction arriving near harbor of Souse, Tunisia at 2030. Convoy laid off coast of Souse overnight. July 7th 8th & 9th - Arrived in harbor of Souse at 0700 hours. Laid in harbor all day. Troops swam most of the day. On the 8th, the troops unloaded at 0720 and left by foot on a 12 mile hike. The noon meal was had at a British camp. Returned to LCI's at 1530 hours. On the morning of the 9th at 0001 hours the convoy left Souse harbor for tactical landing on Sicily as we found out when the pamphlets were distributed. We travelled until 1400 hours to the assembly area off the Island of Malta; the trip was very rough, and many of the troops suffered seasickness. At 1700 hours the convoy left the assembly area for our objective. July 10th - At H Hour much activity could be noticed on the beach at Gela, Sicily; flares, tracers, fires, etc. The bn landed on the designated beach (No. 67, red beach) at H plus 105 minutes. The bn landed successfully, marched to assembly area, and advanced to 1st objective - the arty control station, arriving there at approximately 0950 hours. The day was spent in position at this point until the Bn left the area at 1930 hours on foot to next objective - the high ground surrounding the airport. After marching about 8 miles the advance of the bn was halted by extremely heavy cross fire from positions to our front and flanks. The bn withdrew to positions near and around the road block about ½ mile back from where we were attacked at 0230. After reorganizing, the bn went into positions on either side of the road. July 11th - At 0600 hours the enemy opened up with extremely heavy automatic weapons and small arms fire on our companies occupying the high ground. Two tanks came thru the bn position at 0700, returned, and were followed by 11 at 0810. The companies were forced to withdraw, and at 0930 Col Corley gave the order for the bn to withdraw. Capt Hughes and several bn troops manned an enemy anti-tank gun knocking out two enemy tanks. Co "K" successfully held their position and forced the enemy to their front into the Ranger bn who took them prisoner. The morale of the bn withdrawal was good, new members caused some confusion ***** on in an otherwise orderly withdrawal. The bn, except for stragglers arrived in the 2nd Bn area to reassemble at 1100 hours. Arrangements were made for water, rations, and ammo for troops. Afternoon. spent in rest, assembly, and reorganization. At 1700 hours Bn S-6 and S-5 went to meeting at regt and came back with the order to advance about 1 & ¼ miles to position 26th reserve for attack this night. New CP established at 2300 hours. July 12th - Bn S-2 & Cpl Hochstadt on recon at 0545. Report of white flag on objective at 0830 hours. Co comdrs meeting in CP at 0830. Bn moved out at 1015 and arrived at area held the previous day at 1100. Details were sent out to salvage any equipment left behind; get rations, ammo, etc. Capt Hughes left the bn for the hospital due to the ear injury received the 11th when firing the captured 47mm gun. Col Bowen visited the CP at 1630. Capt Morrissey left the bn for the hospital also. Lt. Billings went to Co "L" as CO; Lt Murphy came to Hq Co as CO; Capt, Crawford joined the Bn as S-3; The bn left area at 1730 marched to high ground near airport (3 & ½ miles) arrived there and went into position at 2200 hours. (Defensive position) Intel. section sent out periodic motor patrols to contact the Ranger Bn. July 13th - Bn alerted to move. Left defensive positions at 1200 hours on forced march of approximately 8 miles to new defensive position in 26 CT reserve; arrived at destination at 1730. After the bn assumed positions, the intel. sect. left on patrol with elements of the Cannon Co. They reached our next objective, captured 6 prisoners, and occupied the position all night. July 14th - The Bn moved forward again at 0615 - forced march of 13 miles to city of Mazzarino where the bn established defensive positions. The bn CP was established on the outskirts of the city at 1330 hours. Patrols laid on as follows: Lt Allen & A & P plat. to bridge on Barrafranca road with engineers to lay mines in vicinity of bridge; Co "I" to send contact patrol to right to contact 2nd bn and Co "K" patrol to left to contact 1st bn. Our first experience with "Leaping Louie" at 1700 when two barrages were laid in our direction. The 33rd FA laid on many missions during the day at activity on the road and in the vicinity Barrafranca. Several prisoners were picked up during the day. July 15th - Day spent in defensive positions. An OP was established by the Intel. Sect. Co "I" alerted to seize the high ground to our front, but after a meeting at Regt of the Bn Comdrs at 1930 hours, the whole bn was alerted to move on one half hours notice. July 16th - The Bn moved out at 0150 hours forward - order of march: I K L M Hq. Arrived at line to take positions on right flank of White Bn at 0530 hours - marched approximately 6 miles. Immediately upon arrival at positions we received heavy automatic weapons and mortar fire. The CP was established in a wadi at 169598 at 0545 hours and immediately S-6 began calling for arty missions. Our tanks soon assumed positions to the right rear of the CP drawing extremely heavy arty fire. At 0915 14 tanks cut in front and to our right firing up the wadi at the CP which was ordered to move to the safety of the top of the hill by S-5. The enemy tanks were neutralized by our Arty and Tanks. M Co captured 15 prisoners who sought the safety of the M Co position. All day there was constant arty, mortar, and small arms fire. Co's I & L held their positions during the day in spite of other element of the 26th withdrawing. Our tanks moved into town of Barrafranca late in the afternoon. Co's L & M left bn area by truck at 2000 hours to assume positions around the town of Barrafranca. Co kitchens moved up with the first hot meal we had in Sicily. Lt Anderson of L Co was killed with other members of the Co. by a direct arty shell. Throughout the evening stragglers of the bn arrived in the area. July 17th - At 0710 hours Co's I K & Hq moved for a new positions on line with Co's L & M. The situation however, the enemy having withdrawn further than expected, indicated that we move even further forward so the bn marched to within 2 & ½ miles of Pietrapersia. Bn marched 8 miles from 0710 to 1430 hours. July 18th - The day was spent in rest and cleaning up. Bn alerted to move at 0730 - alert called off at 1000 hours. Col Bowen visited the CP and stayed for the noon meal. Co Comdrs meeting in CP at 1400 hours. Mass held in area at 1600 hours. July 19th - The bn left area by foot at 1045, marched 8 & 1/2 miles to entrucking point, entrucked and rode 2 & ½ miles to assembly area; arriving there at 1535. The advance of the bn was held up by harassing arty fire believed to be from a stray tank; order of march L K I M Hq Co. Morale of troops - good. July 20th - Left area at 0310 hours by truck arrived new area 0445 distance travelled approximately 20 miles. Hot breakfast served troops at 0830. Bn moved out again by motor at 1600 arrived Valepriola at 1730 hours - distance 14 & ½ miles. July 21st - Bn moved out at 2100 marched 10 miles and moved into support of 2nd Bn. Held up by small arms fire and fire from a 47mm howitzer. Reached objective at 0530 hours. July 22nd - Bn moved out at 0200 reached first phase line at 0530; remained in support of 1st bn. Both 1st and 3rd bn's pinned down by exceptionally heavy arty fire. Bombed by our own planes. 33rd FA liaison radio knocked out by shrapnel. At 1800 hours a coordinated attack ordered. Arty, tanks, the 1st bn followed by 3rd bn. 1st Bn. withdrew under heavy arty fire - elements of the 1st (stragglers) reorganized under Col Corley who personally, as usual, led out our bn in the successful attack. By this successful attack, the town of Galimena was taken. July 23rd - Bn in bivouac all day. Co Comdrs meeting in CP at 1400. Field train moved up to bn. July 24th - Bn moved out at 1230 by motor, distance travelled 20 miles, arrived vicinity of Gagni 1430. Patrols sent out, couldn't contact enemy. Enemy blew up bridges and sharp curves on road. Col Corley awarded the DSC. 860 Goums attached to the 1st Div for patrols, reconnaissance, etc. Bn moved forward to positions near St Venera at 2130 - marched approximately 3 miles. (Assembly Area). .July 25th - Bn left assembly area at 2015 marched 11 miles cross country arrived near St Venera at 0130. Moved to vicinity of CP at 0530 (near hill no. 962). Co "I" driven off 962 three times - hill retaken each time. Lt Thompson and platoon captured 11 prisoners. July 26th - Bn in same area - fighting intense. Arty duels, MG's, small arms, mortars, & Leo the Lion or Leaping Louie. July 27th - The battle ended at 0230 the enemy retreating in disorder; Div arty laid heavy fire on the retreating enemy. The combat strength of the bn for this operation was 26 off. and 458 EM. Casualties were exceptionally light considering the amount of firs. Sgt Smith Co K killed after heroic action. July 28th - Day spent on hill no. 902 cleaning equipment, clothes, resting, etc. 41 EM and 1 Off replacements arrived at 1800 and assigned to companies. Mass was held at 1600. The CP was located in and the companies bivouacked around a medieval looking castle complete with courtyard, tower, etc. Bn Field train moved up from Gangi. July 29th - Day spent in area - rest, cleaning up etc. July 30th - Spent in rest, etc. Col Bowen visited the CP. A "Song Fest" held in the courtyard in the evening. Prot services in the morning. Lt Falconieri to Co I as CO; Lt Ford to Bn Staff as S-2; Lt Maddocks to Cannon Co. July 31st - Bn S-3 and Intel Sect left to reconnoiter new area. Bn alerted to move out sometime in evening. Aug 1st - Left area (St Venera) by truck at 0100 hours, travelled approximately 35 miles to a position east of Nicosia near Cerami; arrived approximately 0530 hours. Bn in bivouac all day. Aug 2nd - One year ago we left the States! Bn S-6 to meeting at Regt. At 1400 Bn alerted to move in evening. Left area 2000 - 2200, entrucked and travelled approximately 4 & ½; detrucked and marched approximately 4 miles to assembly area. Objective- ****** Aug 3rd - The bn met stiff resistance - both arty and infantry well dug in. The Bn CP was under heavy arty fire for one and one half hours. An enemy ammo dump was blown up by our arty fire directed by Col Corley. Aug 4th - Bn in same position under heavy arty fire that seemed to be cross fire from tanks well hidden. Mail and rations in. Aug 5th - Bn still in same position; enemy resistance still strong. Many casualties inflicted on the enemy by Co "M", 3rd FA and the Air Corps. CP again under arty fire for two hours - cross fire, no casualties. Aug 6th - Bn moved out at 1100 hours marched cross country approximately 3 & ½ miles arrived in new CP at 1330. Air Corps continually strafing and bombing enemy positions - tons of bombs are being dropped on enemy positions. Many enemy dead noticed along route of march -all German. The town of Troina was extensively mined and booby trapped (bouncing babies). Aug 7th - CP moved up along road at 0600 hours - distance 2 & ¼ miles. 47th Inf moved past us at 0230 hours. Enemy shelled road ahead of us with large mortars. These guns were later fired upon by our arty. Hot chow served bn. Aug 8th - Field train moved up to bivouac 1 & ¼ miles N.E. of Troina. Bn bivouac. Church Services, rest. Aug 9th - Bivouac area, rest care and cleaning of equipment. Bn entertained by the 26th band in evening. Aug 10th - Bn began a regular training schedule, line Cos. & heavy weapons - all crew served weapons. Platoon training - close order Drill (Battle Drill) and Etc. Hq Co. stress communications equipment repair instructions and etc. Aug 11th - Usual camp duties. 26th Band in Bn area in evening. Aug 12th - Gen Huebner presented members of Bn with awards at 1300 hours. Arms fired rifle range in morning. Aug 13th - Bn addressed by Col Corley at 1000, demonstration by Bn Intel Section. Aug 14th to 16th - Usual camp duties. Aug 17th - Day spent in preparation for move. Packing trucks, equipment, etc. Detail- Bn S-6, Bn S-2 and Intel Section left for new area at 0900. Aug 18th - Bn arose at 0400 - breakfast at 0415-entrucked at 0530- Bn moved up to IP (Troina) 0700 hours. Bn Crossed IP at 0800 - order of convoy Hq Co, "K", "I", "L", "M". Travelled 130 miles to new bivouac area 9 miles N.W. of Licata. Arrived at 1745, Convoy was observed by plane by Gen Huebner - supposed to been a model troop movement by truck. Aug 19th to Aug 22nd - Usual camp duties. Aug 23rd - Training schedule published for extensive weapons training. Various weapons school started, organized athletics in afternoon, classes all morning, movies in evening. Aug 24th - Bn inspection by Gen Huebner & Col Wyman & Col Bowen. Aug 25th to 26th - Usual camp duties. Aug 27th - Bn practice parade. Regtl parade ground 0900. Bn to divisional assembly area 1015 to hear address by Gen Patton. Returned to bivouac area at 1300, Bn parade at 1645 retreat 1715. Aug 28th to Sep 1 - Usual camp duties. Sep 2nd - Drill-parade at 1615. S-3 operation Sgt on recon. all day for defensive positions. Sep 3rd - Drill-Div inspector inspecting kitchens, supply rooms, orderly room records. Sep 4th to 5th - Drill schedule. Sight seeing tour to Agrigento. Sep 6th - Night problem by companies. Col Corley to hospital, Capt Hughes assumed command of Bn. Sep 7th - Usual camp duties. Sep 8th - Bn in preparation for Parade. Alerted to move out. Loaded within an hour. Bn left bivouac 1745, marched by foot approx. 2 & ½ miles to entrucking point. Entrucked at 1850, hear news about Italy surrendering. Motor convoy left entrucking point 1855 traveled approx. 38 miles to Ponte Olivio airport. Arrived at 1935. Bn went into defensive positions, out posted airport, sent out continuous motor patrols. Maj Rainey left the Bn. Sep 9th - Bn still in defensive position at Ponte Olivio airport. Intel Section manning an outpost on Mt Castellano. Asst Div comdr inspected Bn defensive position. (1445). Sep 10th - S-5, S-3, S-1, on inspection of positions at Ponte Olivio airport. Col Corley returned from hospital. One man from each rifle co. attending bayonet school. Sep 11th - Bn still in defensive position. Bn alerted to move back to old bivouac area. Bn left Ponte Olivio airport at 2030 by foot and marched approx. ¼ mile to entrucking point. Motor convoy left entrucking point at 2050 - traveled approx. 38 miles to old bivouac 9 miles N.W. of Licata. Arrived at 2400. Co "L" on D.S. at Agrigento airport. Guarding the Airport. Sep 12th - Usual camp duties. Sep 13th - Usual camp duties. Bn parade. Gen Huebner viewed the parade and made good comments of the fine parade. Sep 14th - Bn range firing. Co "K" left for Agrigento Airport by truck for defensive positions. Rest of Bn alerted to move by morning. Five men awarded Silver Stars at first Bn parade. Replacements leaving for 3rd Div, totaling 95 enlisted men. Sep 15th - Companies left for Agrigento Airport by truck at 0805 hours. ("I" & "M") Bn relieved 40th Combat Engr Regtl affected 1300 hours. guarding installations in vicinity of Nicola & Agrigento Airport. Co "L" guarding Agrigento Airport. Two platoons from Co "K" and two platoons from Co "M" with 5th FA guarding QM dumps class II, IV, V, in vicinity of Sciacoa and Agrigento. Co "I" plus 1 plat. recon. group doing patrols on roads N. & NE. of Agrigento to Vala Seta. One plat. of Co "M" and two plats from Co. "K" doing patrols on road from Agrigento to Conicatti. Nine Italian planes flew into Agrigento Airport. Bn Hq Co left from old bivouac at 1325 and arrived at Agrigento Airport at 1417. Distance traveled 13 miles. Sep 16th - One plat 175th Engrs Regt ****ding class I, IV dumps in our area. Co "K" has taken over Porto Empedale. Co "L" guarding Agrigento airport. Co "M" patrolling roads from Porto Empedale to Palma Di Montichiaro. Hq Co 3rd Bn patrols beaches south of Agrigento. 3rd Plat of 1st Recon patrols from Naro to Conicatti. Italian planes flew into Agrigento Airport and makes the total of 12 torpedo planes, 2 transports and 17 fighter planes. Sep 17th - Schedule is the same as Thursday Sep 16th. Co "M" moves to new bivouac area. Left old bivouac area by truck at 1300 hours to 1 mile south of Agrigento. Moved into barracks. Sep 18th - Schedule same as Sept 17 - Patrols and etc. Sep 19th - Usual schedule - Mass services at 1900 in M co. area. Col Bowen visited Bn and inspected Companies positions. Three more Italian fighters flew into Agrigento Airport. Maj Garvey asgnd to Bn as S-3, Capt Hughes asgnd as Bn S-3 and Capt Crawford trfd to Co "A" 1st Bn. Sep 20th - Usual schedule- patrolling and guarding airports and dumps. Sep 21st - Morning - preparing to move back to old bivouac area. Bn Hq Co left Agrigento Airport at 1700 by truck and arrived at Licata at 1800. Bivouac is 9 miles NEW of Licata. 33rd FA relieved the Bn of its patrolling and guarding. Two Platoons Of Co "K" still attached to 5th FA. Bn alerted to move - equipment crated etc. Later the alert was called off indefinitely. Sep 22nd - Usual camp duties. Bn parade called off due to Regt meeting. All officers and NCO's went to regt for a talk and demonstration on manual of arms. Capt Wherle gave the lecture. Sep 23rd - Usual camp duties. Bn had a full field inspection of equipment for movement. Sep 24th - Afternoon schedule called off due to Bn parade. Entertainment in the 18th Inf area. Jack Benny show. Jack Benny wasn't able to appear due to illness. Sep 25th - Usual camp duties called off due to Regt. parade. One off. could go on a sight seeing trip to Palermo. Red Cross gave lemonade and doughnuts to the enlisted man at theater area. Sep 26th - Church Services. Usual camp duties. Sep 27th - Bn on rifle range. all M-1 & 1903 firing. Sep 28th - Bn finished firing on range. Officers & 1st Sgts had blood smears for malaria. Sep 29th - Usual camp duties. Two platoons of Co "K" returned from Agrigento to bivouac. Sep 30th - Usual camp duties - Bn Parade. Pay day for enlisted men. NCO Club was formed and opened. Only first three grades allowed to belong to the club. Gen Huebner visited the area and questioned men about BAR rifle. Oct 1st to 3rd - Usual camp duties. Regtl parades, also preparing to trip to Palermo. Oct 4th - Trip to Palermo. Bn ate breakfast at 0530. Men rolled and packed by 0700. Entrucked at 0720 crossed IP 0745. Arrived at staging area at 1530. Distance covered approx. 110 miles. Men fixed camp also washed and shaved for recreational trip to Palermo. Bivouac area approx. three miles E. of Palermo. Oct 5th - Bn on pass to see Palermo. Historical buildings such as Cathedral and Catacombs. Many other interesting sites. Men were allowed on pass from 0900 to 1800 hours. This Bn had no delinquencies. Oct 6th - Trip back to old bivouac. Bn left Palermo at 0830 by truck and arrived at old bivouac at 1620 hours. Distance traveled - approx. 135 miles. Bn had good weather all the way thru the trip to and from Palermo. Oct 7th - Usual camp duties - show at Regt theater starring Toni Martin and Adolf Menjou. Reports on the show from the men were good. Oct 8th - Usual camp duties - Carbines firing on range. S-5 making trip to Palermo. Oct 9th - Saturdays inspection - Regt parade. 3rd Bn was the best unit. one man from each co. or five men from the bn were picked to go back to the States. Men left at 2100 hours. Oct 10th - Church services. Bishop of Agrigento held Catholic mass for men. Oct 11 - Usual camp duties - still at old bivouac area 9 miles N.W. of Licata. Oct 12 to 15th - Usual camp duties. Oct 16th - Usual camp duties - Hq Co. and Co I kitchens feeding Bn. All other companies equipment crated and sent to docks. Five men from each co. left for docks for loading detail. Oct 17th - Church services. Oct 18 - Usual camp duties. Trucks arrived for Bn move (35 trucks) Oct 19th - Capt Hughes S-3 & EM left for Agusta on advanced detail. Maj Carvey returned from Hosp. All pyramidal tents were rolled and shipped. Bn preparing for move. Oct 20th - Usual camp duties. Oct 21st - Bn troops rolled their equipment and policed area. Moved to end of olive grove at 1700 hrs to entrucking area. Entrucked at 1945 hrs. Left bivouac area at 2200 hrs - crossing IP at 2205 hours by truck. Oct 22nd - Travelling all night and arriving in Agusta at 0745 hrs. Distance covered approx. 120 miles. Walked ½ mile to docks with all equipment. Aboard English LCI at 0815 and travelled one quarter mile to transport ship. (SS Stratheden) 0900 hrs. On the transport we found Indian, English, Australian soldiers, and refugees. (destination unknown) Oct 23rd - Still on board ship (SS Stratheden) Men spent the day cleaning their rifles. Ship sailed out of Agusta harbor at 1130 hrs. During the night another convoy joined our convoy. Oct 24th - Still at sea. Approx. 0500 hours, convoy was sailing west along North African Coast. Destination near Cape Bone. Troops had boat drill, rifle inspections and face movements. Oct 25th - Still at sea. Sailing along the coast of North Africa. Convoy docked at Algiers at 1730. English, Australians and Indian soldiers leaving boat. In evening movies were shown on side of boat and the 26th Inf band played in recreation room. Bn troops have two hours inspection of arms and face movements each day (one hr. in the morning and one hr. in the afternoon) Oct 26th - Still docked in Algiers. Companies having Inspection of Arms and face movements. Hq Co moved from B deck to E deck sleeping quarters. Co "M" on guard at ships guns. (air guard). Oct 27th - Boat station drill - sailed our of Algiers harbor at 1200 hours and formed convoy approx. 2 miles from Algiers. Convoy sailed at 1630 hours. (west) Destination unknown (SS Stratheden). Oct 28th - Still at sea. Convoy moving west. Passing thru the Strait of Gibraltar during the night. Change of Destroyers and Cruisers of convoy. Another convoy joined us at approx. 1800 hrs. Destination some place off the coast of Spain. Oct 29th - Still at sea. Companies having calisthenics, facings, hand salute, Inspection of Arms, Manual of Arms and instructions on interior guard duty. Oct 30th - Still at sea. In morning, men spent washing their clothes. Inspection of rooms by ship comdrs. Protection of a sea plane flying around looking for submarines. Oct 31st - Church services - still out at sea. Destroyer dropped some depth charges in afternoon, indicating that there must be submarines in vicinity. Nov 1st - Still at sea. Companies having calisthenics, facings, hand salute, and Inspection of Arms. Hq Co. washing clothes in afternoon. Nov 2nd - Still at sea - Destination to be off coast of Portugal. Believed to be going to England. Nov 3rd - Still at sea. Nov 4th - Convoy sailed up the Clyde River and docked at 1845 hrs. River separating Scotland & Ireland. Believed to be docked at Greenock. Troops sleeping on board ship. Nov 5th - Ship unloaded mail and some boxes. Some civilians debarked but most of them stayed on board ship. Ship sailed up the Clyde river to Glassgloe. Ship docked at Glassgloe at 1645 hrs. (Scotland). Nov 6th - Preparations for debarking. Troops assembled on different decks with all their equipment. Time 1215 hr. Bn debarked at 1230 hrs. Walked approx. 1/4 mile and waited for train. Aboarded train at 1400 hrs. Train left 1410 hrs. Bn split on different trains. Train stopped for troops' lunch at 1705 hrs (Carlisle) Train pulled out at 1725 hrs. At 2145 hrs the train stopped to change engines and troops received coffee and lunches. Train left for destination at 2210 hrs. Train travelling all night. Nov 7th - Arrived at Blandford, England at 0500 hrs and moved by truck to Down House Camp, Blandford, England. (Approx. 3 miles from Blandford). Place is located S.E. of England. Arrived at camp 0600 hrs. Troops slept in the morning and fixed camp in afternoon. Cleaning barracks and making fires in the stoves in the buildings. Nov. 8th thru 10th - Usual camp duties. Men cleaning the camp. Nov 11th - Armistice Day. Co's observed armistice day by standing two minutes silence at 1100 hrs. Church Services in morning. Nov 12th - Usual camp duties. Nov 13th - Usual camp duties - Lt Murphy relieved from duties as Bn S-1 & Hq Co Co Comdr and assigned to Hq & Hq Co 26th Inf. Lt Ford relieved from duties as Bn S-2 appointed Co Comdr and Bn S-1 of Hq Co 3rd Bn 26th Inf. Lt Brown relieved from asgmt of Hq Co. 26th Inf and assigned to Hq Co 3rd Bn 26th Inf as Communication Officer. Nov 14th - Church services. Nov 15th - Usual camp duties. Dance for 84 EM at Blandford. Men were taken to the dance by truck. 92 replacements for the Bn arrived approx. 2100 hours. Nov 16th Companies built up to strength as to the new TO. Men transferred from Hq & Hq Co 26th Inf & Service Co 26th Inf to 3rd Bn (16 EM). Nov 17th - Usual camp duties. Nov 18th thru 19th - Usual camp duties. E.N.S.A. show in Blandford Camp for the EM. price 1 shilling 6 pence. Nov 20th - Saturday inspection by the Bn Comdr. Men go on 48 hour pass to Bournemouth. Bn dance for EM in Blandford. Nov. 21st - Church services. Nov. 22nd - Usual camp duties - 16 EM allowed to go to London on pass for 4 days. Those passes are given out every four (4) days. Lt Col Corley went on pass to London. Maj Carvey on DS to London. Capt Hughes acting Bn Comding Officer. .Nov 23rd - Usual camp duties. Nov 24th - Bn marched to range (Okeford-Fitzpaine Range) Distance traveled approx. 17 miles. Col Corley returns from London. Anti-tank left for Swanage for maneuvers with Anti-tank Co. and Cannon Co. Nov 25th - Holiday for troops - Church services in NAAFI building. Red Cross mobile truck in Bn area serving doughnuts and coffee. Troops dinner meal consisted of turkey, mashed potatoes, filling, cranberry sauce, soup, dessert, pie, and coffee. Nov 26th - Usual camp duties in the morning. Preparation for parade for Bn. 14 EM awarded purple hearts at Parade grounds. Nov 27th - Bn Parade called off because of rain. Men receiving decorations were decorated in the General's office. Gen Huebner presented the medals. Casualties from Sicily returned to Bn (12 Men). Nov 28th - Eight more casualties returned from Sicily. Church services. Nov 29th - Morning schedule for troops, usual camp duties. Officers Court Martial School in afternoon at Dorchester. Afternoon and evening US0 show in Blandford, Corn Exchange. Night problems by companies. Nov 30th - Companies K, L & Hq Co fired rifles on the Okeford-Fitzpaine Range. Each man fired five rounds of ammo. Companies walked to range approx.17 miles. Companies I & M usual camp duties. Dec 1st - Companies K, L & Hq Co usual camp duties. Companies I & M firing on Okeford-Fitzpaine range. Each man firing five rounds of ammo. approx. 17 miles to and from range. Dec 2nd - Usual camp duties. Gen Huebner in Bn area asking men different questions as to morale and training. Dec 3rd - Bn hike. Men eating noon meal on road. Distance covered approx 20 miles. Co K on SD to Barton Stacy. Co fixing a camp for a new unit coming from the States. Dec 4th -Usual Saturday inspection. Practice Parade. Dec 5th - Church services. Dec 6th - Co firing on 1000 inch range, approx. five miles from camp. Other companies usual camp duties, night problem by companies. Dec 7th - Companies I, L & Hq Co firing on range. 55 replacements for the Bn. Dec 8th - Usual Camp Duties. Dec 9th - Usual Camp Duties in the morning. Bn marched to Blandford camp Corn Exchange to see movies. Names of pictures were SNAFU, "Killed or Not be Killed", "Plain Facts" & "Latrinograms". Dec 10th - Bn Problem. Men eating noon meal on road. Anti Tank returned from Swanage. Dec 11th - Usual camp duties. Dec 12th - Church services. USO show in Corn Exchange, Blandford. The name of the show was "Band Wagon" starring Willie Shore, Josephine Delmar and Dorothy Reckless. Dec 13th - Co "M" on rifle range. (Okeford-Fitzpaine) Each man firing 5 rounds of ammo. Other companies usual camp duties. Pay day for the Officers and EM. Night problem by Companies. Companies collected money for Xmas gifts for the Children of England. Total amount of collection from the Bn was 469 pounds, 9 shillings, and 6 pence. *************************************************************************** No entries for December 14, 1943 through January 11, 1944 *************************************************************************** Jan 12 - Usual camp duties for all companies in the morning. Afternoon Bn troops went to Blandford Garrison Theater to see training film. Jan 13 - Usual camp duties - Movies for the troops in the NAAFI building. (My Heart Belongs to Daddy). Jan 14 - Usual camp duties for Bn in the morning. Afternoon Bn went to Blandford Garrison Theater to see training film. Jan 15 - Usual camp duties. Jan 16 - Church services in the morning. Gen Montgomery spoke to troops in Dorchester. Speech lasted for 15 minutes. Troops returned to base camp at 1300 hours. Church services in evening. Jan 17 - Holiday for troops. Believed to be for the Sunday formation. Jan 18 - Usual camp duties. Jan 19 - Usual camp duties. Lt Col Daniels visiting Bn. Jan 20 - Usual camp duties for the Bn. Men from 16th & 18th Regt atchd to the 3rd Bn to go to the Div communication school. (17 EM) Movies in the evening for the troops in the NAAFI building. Jan 21 - Usual camp duties for the Bn. Jan 22 - Usual camp duties for the Bn. Jan 13 - Church services in Blandford. Jan 24 - Rainy day schedule for the bn except for Company "I". Co "I" in Wymouth for a problem on street fighting. Jan 25 - Usual camp duties for the bn. Co "L" in Wymouth for a problem in street fighting. Jan 26 - Usual camp duties. Jan 27 - Companies hiking. Inspecting General checking stock records, orderly room books. Co firing on the range. Jan 28 - CPX problem for communication platoon. Gen Wyman visiting Bn attended school on "Assault on Fortified Positions". USO show in Blandford for the 3rd Bn troops. Show was called "GI Gang". Usual camp duties for all other companies. Jan 29 - Saturday morning inspection of bks. Usual camp duties. Jan 30 - Church services in Blandford. Jan 31 - Companies I, K, M, & Hq Co - Usual camp duties. Co "L" on combat problem at Okeford - Fitzpaine Range. W/one section of heavy machine guns from Co "M". Col Seitz visiting combat problem. Feb 1 - Co "K" in Wymouth far problem on street fighting. Usual Camp duties for all other companies. Feb 2 - Division overseas eighteen (18) months today. Boxing matches in Swanage. Men left by truck to see boxing matches. 26th Inf Band was there also American Red Cross serving doughnuts and coffee. Co "L" at Wymouth for problem in street fighting. Feb 3 - Gen Huebner visiting Bn. Gen well pleased with the Bn in how they are training. One thing he thought Companies should do is more training in Creeping and Crawling. Usual camp duties. Men firing for qualification on St. Nicholas range. Movies in the NAAFI building for the troops in the evening. Feb 4 - Bn hike and problem with one platoon of Cannon Co & AT platoon. Companies following usual camp duties in the afternoon. Qualification firing on St. Nicholas Range for men who have not as yet qualified. Feb 5 - Saturday mornings inspection of barracks. Feb 6 - Church services in Blandford. Feb 7 - Usual camp duties. Feb 8 - Usual camp duties. Feb 9 - Mobile intel. group from the ETO had a demonstration on different types of German uniforms. Also, a small field problem showing how Germans look in an attack. Feb 10 - Usual camp duties. Feb 11 - Bn problem by companies. Rehearsal parade for tomorrow. Men who are going to receive awards met Capt Hughes on Parade grounds. 3rd Bn dance at the Corn Exchange, Blandford, for EM only. Feb 12 - Bn parade - Award of Silver Stars and one Soldiers Medal. 26th Inf band played for the parade. Gen Gerow from Corps HQ, Gen Wyman & Gen Huebner attended the ceremonies. Feb 13 - Church services in Blandford. Feb 14 - Usual camp duties. Feb 15 - Usual camp duties. Feb 16 - Usual camp duties. Col Seitz visiting Bn. Officers meeting at 1500 hours and Col Seitz attended. Feb 17 - Usual camp duties. Companies going through the gas chamber. Feb 18 - Bn problem - Practicing Bn in attack. March approx. 15 miles. Feb 19 - Saturday mornings inspection by Co. comdrs. Feb 20 - Church services in Blandford - 21 men atchd to the 3rd Bn for attending the Div supply school in Blandford. School only lasted 3 days. Feb 21 - Usual camp duties for Hq, K, L, & M. Co "I'' leaving for a 36 hour problem at 2000 hours. Assault School on fortified position. One squad per platoon. A & P platoon & Co "C" of the 1st Engrs. Men firing pistols on 1000 inch range. Feb 22 - Usual camp duties - Co "I" still on problem. Co "K" at Swanage Range practicing Co in attack with live ammo. Feb 23 - CPX problem for Bn Hq Co. Co "I" returns from the 36 hour problem. Co "L" at Swanage Range practicing Co in attack with live ammo. Co "M" on 1000 inch range firing crew served weapons. All other companies having usual camp duties. Feb 24 - Co "I" at Swanage Range practicing Co in attack with live ammo. All other companies having usual camp duties. Feb 25 - Maj Hafermatz inspecting Co "I" for shortage of equipment. Usual camp duties. Close order drill, calisthenics, sprint hikes for all companies. Feb 26 - Saturday morning inspection by Co Comdrs. Films in NAAFI building for all drivers and assistant drivers. (Water proofing of vehicles). Feb 27 - Church services in Blandford. Feb 28 - Gen Walker from 8th Div in bn area watching troops training. Co "I" in mock area - amphibious training. Co "K" at Wymouth for practicing in street fighting. Co "L" leaving for 36 hour problem at 2200 hours. Feb 29 - Co "I" in Wymouth for street fighting. Co "K" in mock area practicing amphibious landings. Co "L" still on problem. Mar 1 - Co "L" returns from 36 hour problem. Co "K" in Swanage range practicing separate platoons in attack. Co "M" firing on 1000 inch range with crew served weapons. Bazooka firing of all companies. All companies having usual camp duties. Mar 2 - Usual camp duties for all companies except Co "M". Co "M" firing crew served weapons on 1000 inch range. Mar 3 - Training film in NAAFI building for all the companies. Mar 4 - Saturday mornings inspection. Individual arms firing on 1000 inch range for men who have not fired during week. Blinker test of all Officers and Plat sgts. Dance at the Corn Exchange for men who wanted to attend. Sponsored by British. Mar 5 - Church services in Blandford. Cath & Prot services. Mar 6 - Cal 50 range firing on Okeford-Fitzpaine Range. Co "I" firing on 1000 inch range. (5 rounds per man). Also Co "L" firing on 1000 inch range -.Amphibious training for I & L. Voice radio procedure and blinker school of all Officers and plat Sgts in Co "I" mess hall. Usual camp duties for other cos. Mar 7 - Sniper firing at Okeford - Fitzpaine range. Hq Co firing on 1000 inch range - five rounds per man. Co "M" firing on 1000 inch range. 5 rounds per man. All other companies having usual camp duties. Mar 8 - Voice radio Procedure school in Co "I" mess hall. Co "K" practicing amphibious training in mock area. Usual camp duties for all other companies. Mar 9 - Sniper firing at Okeford - Fitzpaine Range. Co "M" firing on 1000 inch range - 5 rounds per man. Also 81mm mortar firing at Swanage. Mar 10 - Voice Radio Procedure school for all officers and plat sgts in Co "M" "I" mess hall. Usual camp duties for all other companies. Mar 11 - Saturday mornings inspection. Men firing on 1000 inch range who haven't fired during the week - five rounds per man. Mar 12 - Church services in Blandford. Mar 13 - Usual camp duties. Preparation for move. Mar 14 - Preparation for move to Swanage. Mar 15 - Move to Swanage to 1st Bn buildings. lst Bn moving to Blandford camp. Reveille at 0500 hours. Companies eating breakfast at 0530 hours. Troops rolled equipment and packed equipment. Col Corley inspecting all the barracks at 0700 hours. Troops boarded trucks at 0725 hours. Hq Co & Co "L" left town Down House Camp at 0744 hours and crossing IP at 0747 hours. IP was Co "M" area. Route of travel Beri, Regis, Wareham and Swanage. Arrived in Swanage at 0850 hours. Distance traveled approx. 22 miles. Companies fixing buildings for sleeping. Mar 16 - Col Seitz visiting bn. Usual Garrison duties. Companies still preparing billets. Mar 17 - Usual garrison duties. Mar 18 - Lt Col Corley inspecting buildings. Mar 19 - Church Services in Swanage. Chaplain Andrews. Mar 20 - Lt Col Corley left for 6 day leave. Maj Carvey acting Bn C.O. Col Seitz visited Bn. Dental survey for all the companies. Arty observer school - lecture - All officers attended. Usual garrison duties for the companies. Mar 21 - Vehicles from the first Recon troop in bn area showing new types of Armored vehicles. Companies on sprint hike in afternoon. Usual garrison duties. Mar 22 - "L" firing on Ballard Down Range. Co "L" firing on Home Guard range. (5 rounds per man). CPX problem from 1430-1630 hours for all 300 SCR & 536 SCR in the Bn. Usual Garrison duties for all other companies. Mar 23 - Tank indoctrination course for the Bn . Mar 24 - Gen Wyman & Col Southerland visiting Bn. Usual camp duties for all the companies. Mar 25 - Maj Carvey inspecting kitchens of the bn. Saturday mornings inspection by co. comdrs. Mar 26 - Fire at Hq Co building (Victoria Hotel) doing little damage. Col Corley returning from leave of absence. Church services in Swanage. Mar 27 - Col Seitz visiting Col Corley at 1455. Companies having usual duties in the morning. Men who have not qualified for record on M-1 firing on Ballard Down Range. Co "I" firing on 1000 inch range. Five rounds per man. Also Co "K" firing individual arms - five rounds per man. Other companies having usual camp duties. Mar 28 - Co "L" firing five rounds per man on Home Guard Range. Afternoon Co "M" firing HMG on Home Guard Range. Hq Co, "I", & "K" - usual garrison duties. Mar. 29 - BAR firing of "K" & "L" Co.s on Home Guard Range - Usual Garrison duties. Mar. 30 - Bn parade. Gen Huebner presented the awards to men receiving the Awards. 15 awards were awarded. Chaplain Chase receiving the Medal of Honor. Bn problem - Companies crossing IP (I Co. orderly. room) at 1935 hours and marched to Church Knowl (Approx. 8 miles). Bn in defense. Companies dug fox holes in defense against tanks. Mar 31 - Col Corley leaving the problem to attend a Court Martial. Maj Carvey acting Comding Officer. Maj Carvey and Capt Hughes inspecting companies positions. Problem called off at 1000 hours. Companies filled in the fox holes they dug and had fatigue to noon. Noon meal at 1130 hours. Bn marched back to base camp starting at 1345 and arriving at 1630 hours. Apr 1 - Saturday mornings inspection. Hq cleaning kitchen for inspection of the Supreme Allied Comdr. Apr 2 - The Supreme Comdr, A.F.H.O., Gen Eisenhower, visited the Bn today. He arrived at 0905 and left at 0930 hours. He spoke to officers and EM of the regt, 2nd and 3rd. Bn. He inspected Hq Co kitchen. He was well pleased with the general appearance of the kitchen. He told S/Sgt Lloyd Kelly that he had the cleanest kitchen in the E.T.O. Other high ranking officers were Gen Gerow, Corps Comdr, Gen Huebner, 1st Div comdr, Gen Wyman, 1st Inf Div comdr. Apr 3 - Men who haven't qualified with their weapons firing at Sydlings St. Nicholas Range. Usual garrison duties for all companies. Apr 4 - Gen Hodges (deputy Army comdr) and Gen Wyman inspecting companies for type of training. Companies K & L firing on range. Co "M" firing mortars on the range. All other companies having usual garrison duties. Apr 5 - Hq Co & Co "I" firing on Home Guard Range - 5 rounds per man. Cos. I & K having training of plat combat problem on lighthouse Range. Co "M" - Usual Garrison duties, also sprint hike. Co "K" BAR's firing on 1000 inch range. Apr 6 - BAR's from Co "K" firing on 1000 inch range. Co "L" training plat combat problem on Lighthouse Range. All other companies having usual garrison duties. Apr 7 - Bn stream crossing at Blandford. Companies practicing stream crossing in morning and afternoon. Night problem - Bn in attack with stream crossing and hike. Problem lasted until 0030 hours Saturday. Troops sleeping in Broadley Woods. Coffee and doughnuts were served to troops. Apr 8 - Bn returns to base camp, arriving at 0900 hours. Companies having inspection of equipment and inspection of buildings. Apr 9 - Easter Sunday - Church Services. Apr 10 - Gen Bradley, Army Comdr. and Gen Wyman lst Div Inf Comdr. visiting bn. Gen Bradley inspected "I", "L", "M" & Hq Co kitchens. Gen Bradley giving talk to all officers of Regt (less 1st Bn off) at church hall - time 1530 hours. Gen Bradley and Gen Wyman left bn at 1600 hours. Co "I" & "K" firing indiv. weapons on Home Guard range. 5 rounds per man. Bn A.T. platoon firing on 1000 inch range. Other companies usual garrison duties. Apr 11 - Co "L" firing indiv. arms on Home Guard Range - 5 rounds per man. BAR's from Co "L" firing on 1000 inch range. All other companies usual garrison duties. Apr 12 - Hq Co & Co "M" firing indiv. weapons on Home Guard Range. Bn A.T. platoon firing on 1000 inch range. Other companies usual garrison duties. Apr 13 - Companies "M" & "L" firing 60mm & 81mm Mortars on Lighthouse Range. Other companies usual garrison duties. Apr 14 - Bn restricted to barracks after duty hours. The restriction was all over the E.T.O. for the purpose so men AWOL could be found. Usual garrison duties. Apr 15 - Saturday mornings inspection. Apr 16 - Sunday Church services in Swanage. Apr 17 - Officers compass problem. Co "I" 60mm mortars & snipers firing on Lighthouse Range. Sprint hike for all companies. March to range considered a sprint hike. Usual garrison duties for other companies. Apr 18 - Officers Compass problem. Gen Montgomery seen in vicinity of Swanage. Co "M"'s HMG firing on Lighthouse Range. Co "K" snipers firing on Lighthouse Range. Sprint hike for all companies. Apr 19 - Usual garrison duties. Sprint hike for all companies Apr 20 - Gen Huebner giving speech to 3rd Bn, Regtl Hq Co, AT Co, and Serv Co. Told the men that their training is finished and that they had a job to do, also that we would fight as a div. when we got to France. Usual Garrison duties. Apr 21 - AT platoon firing on 1000 inch range. Co "L" firing indiv. arms (5 rds. per man) on home Guard Range. Apr 22 - Firing on Home Guard Range for men who have not fired during the week. Saturday mornings inspection by co. comdrs. Apr 23 - Church services. Swanage bombed by Germans. Incendiary bombs and personnel mines dropped. Cannon companies Half trucks damaged. No one was injured. Apr 24 - Companies "L" & "K" firing on Home Guard Range. - 5 rds per man. Co "M" firing mortars on Lighthouse range. AT plat. firing on 1000 inch range. Usual Garrison duties for all companies. Apr 25 - AT plat firing on 1000 inch range. Hq Co & "I" firing indiv. arms on Home Guard range. Mortar firing on Lighthouse from "I" & "K" companies. Usual garrison duties. Apr 26 - AT plat. firing on 1000 inch range. Co "L" mortars firing on Lighthouse Range. Usual Garrison duties for other companies. Apr 27 - Regimental Problem. Regt in attack. Left Base camp and arrived Church Knowl at 1549 hours. (approx 8 miles) Ate evening meal at assembly area. Regtl problem started at 1800 hrs. and lasted until 1000 hrs the following day. Apr 28th - Bn on Regimental problem up to 1000 hrs, then all bns returned to base camp. Bn reached base camp at 1400 hrs. Apr 29 -Saturday Mornings inspection. Apr 30 - Church services In Swanage. "Joe Louis" - Sparring with the div boxing champion at the 2nd Bn parade grounds. May 1st - Bn preparing for move to Swanage, England. Troops cleaning equipment and cleaning the barracks. May 2 - Breakfast at 0630 hours. Troops rolling their roll and moving out of the buildings at 0945 hours. Col Corley inspecting the barracks. At 0955 hours troops walk to Swanage station (approx. 1/2 mile with all their equipment). Inspecting General inspected all the barracks and was well pleased. Troops aboarded train at 1130 hrs. Leaving station at 1150 hours. Traveled approx. 100 miles by rail. Reaching destination at 1810 hrs, Torpoint, England. Shuttle system of troops by trucks to Camp Raleigh. Traveled distance by truck was approx 2 miles. Arriving at H.M.S. Raleigh at 1850 hours. Bn sleeping in bks. 5th Armored unit feeding the bn. May 3 - Troops fixing Bks. 5th Armored running mess for Bn. May 4th - Usual camp duties. Rainy day schedule in afternoon. USO show for troops (called "Keep them Rolling") 5th Armored running mess by Bn for regiment. May 5th - Usual training schedule, close order drill - calisthenics. lecture. May 6th - Companies troops trying on impregnated clothing. Inspection of Barracks. Men allowed to go on pass to Plymouth for one day. May 7th - Church Services. May 8th - Usual training - calisthenics - close order drill - lectures - Show in Theater for troops. Red Cross serving doughnuts and coffee to troops. May 9th - Companies having problem in training area. Eating noon meal in field. CPX for all communication men (Radio 300 SCR & 536 SCR). May 10 - Companies in training area. Companies practicing defensive problems by Platoons. Eating noon meal in field. Picture show in theater for all troops. (White Cargo). Bn night problems by companies. May 11 - Calisthenics - close order drill - specialized training by platoons, organized athletics. Usual garrison duties. May 12 -Companies in training area (approx 2 & ½ miles -from camp). Calisthenics close order drill - lectures on army talks and discussion. All companies eating noon meal in training area. Return of all companies to base camp at 1600 hours. May 13 - All 60mm and 81mm mortars firing on range, HMG firing on range. Usual garrison duties for all other personnel. May 14 - Church Services. May 15 - Hq Co (Less 22 men, also Col Corley) prepared for move to J-6 area. May 16 - Hq Co left base camp (HMS Raleigh) at 0730 hrs. by bus, plus all organic transportation and travelled approx 25 miles to J-6 area. (Sausage Cold) Arrived at new area at 1200 hrs. All vehicles parked along road and camouflaged. Men sleeping in tents. Lt Volk plus seven (7) EM on DS. All others in co. remaining at HMS Raleigh. May 17 - Hq Co (less 43 to include drivers, asst drivers and A& P men left back to guard J-6 and J-7 area, to guard vehicles and area) left by foot for hike back to HMS Raleigh. Time 0930 hrs. Troops marched approx. 19 miles to HMS Raleigh. Arriving at Camp at 1505 hrs. Co's "I", "K", "L", & "M" still at HMS Raleigh. May 18 - All companies (less Hq Co) on hike. Usual camp duties in afternoon Athletics. Routine night problems by companies. May 19th - Usual garrison duties. Close order drill - Calisthenics - Athletics. Routine night problems by companies. May 20 - Usual Saturday morning inspection by companies. May 21 - Church services. May 22 - All companies on hike until noon. Bn restricted to camp, no one allowed outside camp area and no person to enter. Organized athletics for co's in afternoon. May 23 - All companies turning in gas masks and were replaced with assault gas masks. Organized athletics, close order drills, calisthenics, etc. May 24 - All companies having calisthenics, close order drill, organized athletics. May 25 - Usual garrison duties. Calisthenics, close order drill, organized athletics. Maj Carvey leaving for J-6 area. May 26 - All excess equipment turned in by all personnel of 3rd bn (including barracks bag) Gen Montgomery giving lecture to Regtl Staff and C.O. of each Bn. Gen Wyman in area. May 27 - All companies taking a 4 hour hike. US Army band playing for all troops (including. one Bn of 29th Div) at motor pool. May 28 - Sunday Church Services. May 29 - Hq Co (49) men preparing to move back to J-6 area. Rolled equipment in morning 1330. Col Sutherland inspected Barracks. Men boarded trucks at 1420 hrs. Left Raleigh at 1435 by convoy and arriving at J-6 area at 1645 hrs. Distance covered, approx. 26 miles. All other Co's left back at HMS Raleigh, including Col Corley plus Lt Reynolds. May 30 - Armistice Day. men preparing for move in morning. PX rations, life belts were issued to troops. Vehicles loaded. Men given briefing speech by Maj Carvey and Capt Ford. May 31 - Hq ate Breakfast at 0600 hrs. Rolled equipment to move to boats. Chow served at 1030 hrs. Boarded trucks at 1220. Leaving J-6 area (5 miles south east Collington) at 1230. Arrived at destination (1 mile north of Torpoint) at 1500 hrs. (approx. 21 miles) Walked ½ mile to assembly area. Men eating, chow served by QM. Troops aboard LST 494 at 1730 (All organic transportation 3rd Bn plus 43 EM Hq Co) 3rd Bn medic's, Co "C" medic's, 33rd FA, "C" Bat. and Lt Willis liaison officer. THE INVASION OF FRANCE June 1st - All Battalion transportation and equipment not being carried by personnel (excepting kitchen trucks and personnel which are scheduled to come ashore at "D" plus 8) is today completely loaded aboard LST #494, U. S. Navy. The ship is anchored in Plymouth Bay, England. Seems rather symbolic, for the Mayflower was anchored in this same bay before the Pilgrim Fathers made their historic voyage to New England. Military Personnel aboard this boat are under the control of Major James B. Carvey, 3rd Battalion Executive Officer, and includes Capt. Hughes, Bn S-3, Capt. Ford, Bn S-1, Lieut. Brown, Communication Officer, Lieut. Huff, assistant S-4, Lieut Fountain and a detachment from Company "M" Lieut. McKrell, Transportation Officer (who is TQM) Lieut. Nechey, Anti-tank Officer, Lt. Sellick, Assistant Anti-tank Officer, Capt. Sperling and Capt. Songer with the Battalion medical section, Naval Foc party under direction of Ensign Van Camp and 1st Lieut. Holloway and, Capt. Pelletier in command of all personnel and equipment of Battery "C" 33rd Field Artillery Battalion and liaison group from 33rd also aboard. Today all NCO's received their briefing from 0930 to 1030 hours in the Officers Ward Room. Were brought up to date on Enemy installations and dispositions, our plans and tactics to be used and routes to be taken after we hit the beach. Army rations are being taken aboard. Navy menu to be abandoned tomorrow. White bread is being served at all meals. Quite a treat after months of the British Victory loaf. Personnel of the four line companies have not boarded ship as yet. They are still ashore at H.M.S. Raleigh. June 2nd. - We are still anchored put in the bay but the convoy is forming slowly but surely. Even in this one small port the forces, and the equipment, the ships and the personnel are tremendous and preparations such as we see here, are occurring all over the United Kingdom. It forebodes evil for the Jerries whenever "D" day occurs. Boat assignments have been made in case of abandon ship. General Quarters drill has been observed and worked out quite well. Personnel reacted quickly according to instructions and generally were well behaved during the drill. All units aboard holding briefing conferences again. All personnel gradually becoming acquainted with the situation and the plans. Nothing unusual happened today. Day filled with unit organization. Motors were warmed up and tested for one hour from 1500 to 1600 hrs. this afternoon. Weather is clear and sunny. Lieut. Volk and Lieut. Allen plus six men as an advance detail boarded the DOROTHEA DIX, U. S. Navy, today. June 3rd - Convoy is still forming and growing. Aboard this ship the day being devoted again to briefing and general organization. Motors again started and warmed up between 1500 and 1600 hours. Everyone anxious to get going and get the job started. The balance of the Battalion is loading aboard LCI's today, the companies being disposed as follows: "I" Co. under command of Captain Semanchyk on LCI 539 (USS), "K" Co. under Captain Moultrap aboard LCI 556 (USS), "L" Company under Capt. Billings aboard LCI 416 (USS), "M" Company under Capt. Uffner plus Col. Corley, Battalion Commander (C.O. of troops) and following personnel composing the command group: Lieut Reynolds Bn S-2, Lieut Bicker, Bn S-4, Radio Section less 2 men, wire section less 2 men, message center less 2 men, all aboard LCI 415. June 5th - Moved out of Plymouth Bay at 0230 Hours. Sailed along south with France our destination. In particular, the coast of Normandy at a point between St. Laurent Sur Mer and Colleville Sur Mer. Men getting all packed and ready to go. Morale is good and spirit excellent. Again, nothing to do but "sweat it out". At darkness can still sight the coast of England. No unusual occurrences. June 6th. - At daylight no land can be observed. 0720 hours was to be "H" hour for the invasion of Europa Festung (The Fortress of Europe). We are to land on Omaha Fox Green beach. The 16th Infantry is the assault force coupled with the 116 Infantry of the 29th Division. The 18th Infantry follows the 16th Infantry and the 26th Inf. is scheduled to land, as reserve, at "H" plus 12 or approximately 1930 hrs. At 1000 hrs. we first observed land on our right flank (starboard bow). We were first able to discern the beach at 1500 hrs. It seems to be littered with equipment. Enemy fire falling length and breadth of the whole beach. It must be really tough ashore. Co. Corley and the Bn. hit Omaha Easy Red Beach between 1800 and 1900 hrs. after vainly trying to get in on Fox Green. "I","K", and "M" Companies landed during this period and moved inland under control of Col. Corley. "L" Co. moved in on Fox Green as intended under Capt. Billings control. They joined with the 16th Inf. in the vicinity of Colleville Sur Mer and went into action. Col. Corley's command reports the beach an utter shambles. Equipment scattered everywhere. Beach under observed artillery fire. Derelict sea-craft hung up on the beach--a few on fire. The colonel led the Bn. through the one gap they were able to traverse. Moved toward assembly area and ran into the Reg. CP in an over-ran gun emplacement. Received orders to hold the Bn. in place for a possible change of orders. Order came and Bn. moved to draw north of St. Laurent Sur Mer. Capt. Moultrap injured. Lieut. Cornwell placed in command of "K" Co. Major Carvey with second command group left LST 494 at 2145 hrs. and landed on Omaha Easy Red Beach. Major Carvey, Capt. Ford, Lieuts, Willis, Huff, Egge and 31 EM were in one LCVP that struck a mine and sank. Capt. Hughes took charge and let the group to a point some 1700 yards off the beach where he contacted the rest of the Bn. At this point Hq. Co., I, K, & M Co's. formed the complete Bn. At 2300 hrs. German Dive Bombers bombed the beach area. At 2300 hrs the Bn. moved out in column of files because of mine fields. Held up almost at once while Col. Corley reports to regiment again. During this time check on Hq. Co. finds only 27 men present. Lieut. Brown placed in temporary charge of the company. Col. Corley received orders that 116th and 115th are attacking St. Laurent Sur Mer and that 3rd Bn. is to by-pass the town and seize the high ground on the south of town. Bn. moved out at 1230 hrs. with "K" Co. leading. June 7th. - Bn. moved out at 0030 hrs. Beautifully clear night. At 0200 hrs. ran into enemy resistance composed of small arms fire mainly. At 0330 hrs, Bn. just short of objective, heavily engaged, begins to dig in. "M" Co, in general support. At 0830 hrs. receive orders to advance on Formigny - Hill 57. Col. Corley and Capt. Crawford to go to 1st Bn., 18th Inf. CP to coordinate the effort. They will move out on our left. They have a few tanks. We will probably not have physical contact with 1st Bn. of 18th. Capt. Billings of "L" Co. reports in at 1040 hrs. We have no medics excepting Co. aid men. "K" Co. jumps off at 1115 followed by "L" Co. Balance of day spent in trying to develop more than two platoons. We run into snipers and its just like hunting quail. They are up in trees with camouflaged uniforms. All areas have to be checked for hidden Heinies. We find we are attached to 1st. Bn., 18th Inf. Lt. Selleck sent out to check with regiment at 2300 hrs. for more definite orders. Casualties for the day: Lieut. Emerson & 1 EM KIA Lt. Wanderstolp and 10 EM - WIA. Enemy morale - excellent; our troops - excellent. Was a clear sunny day. Medics joined us at 1600 hrs. June 8th - Bn. relieved from attachment to 18th Inf. Receive orders to move from extreme right flank of division to extreme left flank. Organic transportation arrived at 0800 hrs. Bn. moved out at 1000 hrs. on hike of approximately 6 miles to the cross-roads near Mosles. Met no enemy resistance for we hiked laterally to the front lines past the rear of the 2nd Bn. 18th Inf. positions to a point just in the rear of the 2nd Bn. 26th Inf. & by-passed Tour-en-Bessin. We have attached to us a company of tanks from the 745th Tank Bn. under Command of Capt. Washburn. Moved out at approximately 2000 hrs. Order of March: "I" Co., First CP group, "L" Co., "K" Co., Hq. Co., "M" Co & A.T. Pln. (with platoon from A. T. Co. attached). Formation: Inf. as advance guard with tanks rolling down in center, firing as they advanced. Gas or ammunition dump burning in Tour-en-Bessin. "I" Co. Casualties for the move: 3 EM KIA, 2 EM WIA, Total for the Bn.: 3 KIA; 2 WIA.. June 9th - Arrived on our objective at 0015 hrs. St. Anne (the objective) is situated approximately 900 yards east of Cussy. We find later that our battalion was the first unit in the whole allied beachhead to reach its initial objective. We're a good outfit. We know it. We've proven it. We have something to swell up our chest about. Companies deploy to their prearranged positions immediately. At 0300 hrs. as tanks are moving up to "L" Co. positions the enemy launch an attack at the "L" Co. position. Enemy using concussion grenades and potato mashers. All except 2 platoons of "L" Co. forced to withdraw. 2nd Platoon of "M" Co. overrun. Lieut. Ruby does a beautiful job. Bn. CP located in a large home next to the road. Co. & Bn on one side of the house, balance of company on other side of house. Enemy forces come down main road in trucks. Leading truck full of ammunition hit by tank fire and bursts into flames right in front of CP. two other trucks one of which tried to by-pass the first are also knocked out. Enemy on bicycles, motorcycles and one on a horse thrown in utter confusion. Close fighting, fast and furious. Heinies are utterly demoralized screaming, crying, and yelling as they jump into ditches along road and into foxholes in "K" Co's. positions. Situation very critical until dawn. Grenades being thrown into C*** CP. We learn a lesson: That building should be mouseholed so as to have communication between all elements. At daylight naval gunfire helps break up enemy attack and routs them. they are scared to death, many of them under shock. Many dead "Jerries" near "L" Co. position and eight or ten in front of CP. Patrols then sent out to the south. At 1300 hrs. we move out towards final beach-head objective in the vicinity of Agy. We march approximately eight miles reaching Agy at 2000 hrs. Only light resistance along the way. Ammunition and chow brought up at 2200 hrs. Capt. Seman killed while Co. is trying to reach correct area. Weather warm, light overcast clouds. Morale of our troops good but they are getting tired. Many men with sore feet. Its been a busy day. Casualties in Bn.: Capt. Uffner, Lieut. Ruby, and 36 EM WIA, 11 EM KIA, 7 EM MIA. June 10th - Just before daylight "I" Company has a skirmish with the enemy and kill approximately 80, capturing 3 officers and 92 E.M. We spend the day consolidating and strengthening our positions. After lunch General Wyman visits CP for an hour. Col. Seitz visited Bn. CP at 1200 hrs and left at 1245. Everyone seems pleased with our accomplishments. Routine patrols are out. English motorized patrol (Hampshires) who are on our left flank contact us at 2030 hrs coming to Bn. CP. Col. Corley left for Regt. at 2130 hrs. OP established in local church. Casualties: 1 EM - WIA June 11th - A bright, cloudless, sunny day. Everything very quiet and peaceful. Chaplin Chase holds services near CP at 0900 hrs. Bn still in defensive position. General Huebner visits area at 1100 hrs. Talked with many men in "I" Co and extended sympathies over the loss of Capt. Semanchyl. Men seem all pooped out. They are washing feet, airing shoes, and cleaning socks. Feels good to rest a bit. Before leaving area at 1145 hrs., Gen. Huebner expresses his pride on our achievement. Col. Seitz, Capt. Kohout, and Capt. Crawford visit Bn. after lunch for pleasure call. Father Flynn says mass at 1400 hrs. Bn. alerted to move at 2000 hrs. We move out behind 1st Bn., at 2100 hrs. Hike 3 miles to intermediate assembly area one and one-half miles south of Le Bas reaching that point at 2245 hrs. Bn. Casualties: 1 EM WIA. We are in reserve for regiment. June 12th - We move out of assembly area at 0415 hrs. and walk 4 miles to Le Bourgoise arriving there at 0515 hrs. Another assembly area. 1st and 2nd Bn's. advancing against light sniper fire. We rest again. At 1530 hrs. Bn. moves out arriving at another assembly area 7 miles distant near Le Chappelle at 1815 hrs. Capt. Hughes relieved as S-3 appointed Bn. Ex. Off. Capt. Ford reld. as S-1, sent to rear, Lieut Brown aptd. Hq. Co. Com. and S-1, Lt. Selleck aptd Comm Off., Capt. Clisson reld C.O. Cannon Co. aptd S-3. CP set up in bombed out house near crossroads. A&P black-out CP, advance detail laid on. We have to wait until 1st and 2nd Bn. arrive at their objectives Le Repas and Caumont respectively. A company of medium tanks with tank dozer are attached to us. No casualties. Weather - clear, cloudless, sunny day, warm. June 13th - Advance detail leaves at 0230 under Capt. Hughes, Lt. Reynolds, S-2 drops guides, a guide stands in wrong position and allows our trucks to take a wrong road toward the enemy but we catch them and bring them back. We catch lst Bn. while they are 1 mile short of their objective. They are out on their feet. Both 1st. and 2nd Bn. doing swell job and advancing fast. On left flank are British 7th Armored (the Desert Rats of 8th Army fame). We are keeping pace with them. We have a breakfast of fresh fried eggs, French bread, and fresh butter and Coffee. It hits the spot. Everyone tries to catch a little sleep. We move out at 1115 hrs. lst and 2nd Bn definitely on their objectives. Jerry evidently surprised by our rapid advance. Move forward slowly and arrive at out position 700 yds east of Caumont. Bn. alerted for counterattack. We start digging in. Col. Seitz passes thru and is pleased with the regiments swell advance. A scout car and Lt. Hale from 1st Royal Tank Regt. contacted us at 2130 hrs. Patrols from 16th Inf. contacting us hourly. Troops are tired but morale good. Alternate cloudy and sunny day, nice weather. Bn. Casualties: 1 EM WIA. June 15th - Still consolidating position. Men still digging down. Under artillery fire all day. Whole Regt is buttoning up and improving contact between battalions. Patrols sent to contact British on our left and 1st and 2nd Bns. Very quiet day, nothing to report. No unusual occurrences. Strictly hard labor all day digging in. No casualties. We are still having beautiful weather during the day. However it cools considerably at night accompanied with an extremely heavy dew. Two men to hospital with malaria. June 16th - Bn. still in defensive position. Enemy continued to shell battalion all day. General Wyman visited S-6 1100 hrs. to 1410 hrs. Gave order for each man to have alternate fox-holes. Co. "L" moved from defensive position 2000 yards to our right to close gap between 26th Inf. and British 6th Queens Regt. Reconnaissance patrol led by Lt. Fisher to La Croix forced to return due to heavy British artillery. Covered whole area. Capt. Brown of 131st Br. Brigade visited S-6 2040 hrs. in regard to defensive position of "L" Co. Patrol led by "I" Co. Sgt. for recon to Locqueville left 2200 hrs, returned 0030. Bn. received 13 replacements. 50% security called for at 2100 hrs. Weather clear and sunny. Bn. casualties: 1 EM WIA. June 17th - Battalion continues holding defensive position, Today we received seventy-three (73) replacements (EM) and six (6) officers. Co. "L" was attacked by an enemy platoon at 2100 hrs. on their left flank. The attack was of very short duration and the enemy beaten off without causing us any casualties. Lt. Matthews left Co."L" with a recon patrol at 2300 hrs. The patrol advanced 1000 yds and received fire from Jerry machine guns and rifles both from left and right. They attempted to by-pass this area but drew more fire and were forced to return at 0400 hrs. Foot patrol sent N.E. of our position contacted the British at Livry and returned at 0030 without contacting enemy. Routine motor patrol from 2300 to 0430 hrs. made by Hq. Co. Intelligence reports no contact with enemy on lanes N.W. of our position. The 2nd Platoon of 1st Recon is now on our left flank of Co. "L" giving contact between Co. "L" and the British. Battalion S-3 and S-5 visited 2nd Bn. in Caumont. Returned with cork screws, erasers, chalk, paper clips, cigarette holders, baby rattles, and four rolls of exposed film. The weather was cloudy and damp this morning. The sun came out about noon time. We had one man wounded in action today. June 18th - Our defensive position for the battalion remains unchanged. 100% alert called for throughout the Bn. from 0430 to 0730 for expected enemy sniper counterattack. Lt. Unzicker, Co. "L", was shot in abdomen by enemy sniper at 0800 hrs. this morning. Capt. Washburn Co. "C", 745th Tank Bn., visited Bn. at 2000 hrs. He and blue 3 left CP at 2015 for recon for probable counter-attack in the "L" Co. sector. Lt. Fisher with twelve enlisted men from Co. "L" left on patrol to contact enemy at 2300 hrs. Estimated one reinforced enemy platoon 1000 yds. to Bn. left front. Casualties for the day: 1 Officer and 10 EM WIA. Weather: Clear and warm. June 19th - Bn. position static. The men continue to improve their fox holes and camouflage them. Lt. Fisher returned at 0400 hrs. with patrol. He reports patrol stopped by small arms fire but no casualties. Artillery fire called for on SCR 536 to bear on enemy positions. Results were satisfactory. Lt. Thomas of Co. "M" received slight facial wounds from shrapnel at 0900 hrs while on British OP. Col. Seitz, Regt. S-6, visited the bn. at 1130 hrs. for conference with bn. staff. Left Bn. at 1245 hrs. At 1600 hrs Lt. Col. R. H. Pratt, G-3, Lt. Col. Bethune G-2, and Lt. Col. Zwicker, G-4, all of Army Ground Forces, Hq. 5th Corps visited bn. Remained until 1715. Casualties: 1 WIA. Most of the day has been rainy and generally overcast. June 20th - There is no change in defensive set up of the battalion. Lt. Donald, replacement officer of Co. "L" was shot and killed by a guard of Co. "L" OP when he failed to halt or respond when challenged by guard twice. He was shot at 0100 hrs but his body was not found until 0715. Co. Gara, 1st Engr. Bn. visited S-6 from 1045 to 1145. Two British Captains of the British 6th Queens Regt visited S-6 to improve British & American contact. They left at 1400 hrs. Blue 6 visited Red and White Bns. from 1300 to 1600 hours. At 1530 Capt. Washburn, 745th Tank Bn., came to discuss plan for counterattack with bn. staff. He left at 1600 hrs. Capt. Oxford of "C" Co. 1st Engr. discussed improving road for Co. "L" with Bn Staff from 1500 to 1530 hrs. Col. Seitz visited Bn. at 1740 hrs. Left 1820 hrs. Casualties for the day: 1 KIA 1 WIA 10 to hospital. It is still cloudy with occasional showers. June 21st - Our position remains defensive. There is very little activity other than exchange of artillery fire. We have had the following visitors in the Bn today: Col Seitz and Capt Kelley, Regt, at 1050. Capt. Washburn, 745th Tank Bn from 1500 to 1535 hrs. Col. Seitz with Col. Corley visited Co. "L" from 1100 to 1145. Col. Seitz and Capt. Kelley left bn. at 1245. At 1800 hrs. today we received our first copy of "American Traveler" dated June 20, 1944. The weather is still overcast and rainy. Casualties for the day 15 to hospital. June 21st - Our position is unchanged. Lt. Haley and four (4) EM of Co. "I" made patrol at 0120 hrs and contacted a small enemy force. The patrol was fired on by either anti-tank guns or bazookas. Lt. Haley and two of his men were wounded. The two enlisted men were evacuated but the Lt. is still missing. At 0220 hrs. patrol under Lt. Eggebrecht contacted enemy. There were no casualties. Col. Nichols, commanding 745th Tank Bn. visited CP on recon for position for his unit to attack from in case of a counterattack. Col. Corley visited Co. "K" from 1020 to 1100 hrs. Gen. Wyman visited the Bn. from 1110 to 1205 hrs. Maj Crowley, Div. Camouflage Off. from1st Engrs. inspected our area for camouflage. Col. Corley visited Co. "L" from 1330 to 1400 hrs. Col. Seitz visited bn. from 1730 to 1820 hrs. Maj Crowley returned at 2100 hrs. reports camouflage in good condition. Left Bn. at 2130 hrs. The weather cleared at noon today and the afternoon is warm and sunny. Casualties for the day: 1 KIA 1 MIA 1 WIA 1 combat exhaustion. June 23rd - There is no change in our tactical situation. The Bn. has had the following visitors today: Col. Seitz, 1400 to 1410 hrs. Capt. Washburn, 1500 to 1545 hrs. Lt Col Murdock, Capt Carney of 1st Bn. from 1900 to 1920 hrs. Major Doyle, SOS, 1935 to 2035. Co "L" and Co. "I" begin exchange of positions at 2230 hrs also Hq. Co. AT Platoon and Platoon of AT Company. It is a very nice day, clear and sunny. Casualties for today 5 malaria, 2 absent sick, 3 wounded in action. June 24 th - Bn. position unchanged. Co. "I" and Co. "L" and the two AT Platoons have completed their move by ??3? hrs. Co. "L" is reorganizing co. in old "I" Co. position. Chaplin Andrews of 1st Bn. visited Bn. at 1045 left 1115. Co. Seitz, Regt S-6, visited Bn. from 1515 to 1600 hrs. Col. Seitz, Capt. Kelley visited CP from 2120 to 2145 hrs. Patrol led by Sgt. Gay of Co. "K" with three men checked out through "G" Co. outpost at 2345 and proceeded to cross 711 589 road. Men's voices and vehicles were heard across the road. The patrol worked it's way east along the trail and was fired on at cross road 713 589. They retraced their steps to 708 591 and proceeded east to cross road 716 593. Enemy outpost believed to be at 712 589 and 711 587. Lt. Brown was relieved of duties as S-1 and CO of Hq. Co. at 2400. Capt, Billings of Co. "L" is assigned to take over Lt. Brown's job. Capt. Chaplin is appointed CO for Co. "L". The weather is good again today: clear, sunny, and warm. For the day we had 3 cases of malaria, 1 man sick to hospital, 1 combat exhaustion, and 3 men wounded in action. June 25th - Our position remains the same and we are still under artillery fire. At 0250 Red 6 called for artillery fire at 729 592. He believes there is a close enemy battery firing on his sector. Lt. Tosco, Co. "I", reported fire coming from right front at 0345 hrs. It is believed to be result of Red Patrol. Routine road patrol reports British alternating their companies. Small enemy patrol, reported by Lt. Fisher of Co. "I" and the British, worked between OPL & MRL at 0445. 2nd Platoon of Co. "I" has them under observation and will attempt to take them at daylight. Formations of "Forts" flying S. E. over our position at 0725 hrs. encountered heavy concentration of enemy ack ack. One, apparently hit, circled and turned back. Visitors in the Bn. today were Maj. Hafermaltz, Col. Seitz, and Capt. Kelley. Lt. Brown left the Bn. at 1030 hrs. having been transferred to regiment. Heavy shelling of enemy artillery suggest possibility that enemy has moved in more mobile artillery. The weather was clear this morning but has become cloudy and rainy this afternoon. Casualties for the day: 3 malaria, 3 sick to hosp., and 1 neurotic. June 26th - Bn. remains in same defensive position. Artillery fire is still heavy. Information gathered from prisoner taken by Red Bn. reports 2nd Co., 304th Grenadier Regt. in front of Co. "A" are short gasoline and receive only one poor meal each day after dark. Motor patrol at 0500 hrs. report British 50th Regt. have advanced 3 miles and are on line with British 6th Queens Regt. Col. Seitz and Capt. Crawford visited the Bn. today. The weather is very cloudy and rainy. Men continue on work details to improve their position. Casualties for the day: 2 malaria and 3 wounded in action. June 27th - Our position remains unchanged and we are still receiving considerable artillery fire. Lt. Huey of 1st Engr. reported laying of barbed wire completed at 0320 hrs. At 0500 routine road patrol reported all roads clear. Lt. Col. Hick, 2nd Bn. 16th Inf. along with Capt. Hall visited CP on familiarization recon of sector we are holding. At 1430 hrs. Col. Seitz and Col. Learnard arrived in our area and went with Col. Corley to Co. "I" to observe direct fire on known targets (houses) at 722 581. They left the battalion at 1650 hrs. Capt. Kelley and Capt. Crawford visited C.P. from 2200 to 2230 hrs. We have had showers off and on all day and it has been cloudy. Casualties for today: 3 malaria and 6 men absent sick.' June 28th - We are still in the same defensive position. Lt. Sampson of Co. "I" led a combat patrol through Co. "C" at 0105 hrs into field 72505945. Encountering mortar fire, patrol withdrew to road, moved east on road then went down hedgerow where they ran into barbed wire and sounded alarm. Flares went up and the patrol threw hand grenades and sent BAR thru on flank. This drew more fire. The patrol had Polish soldier call but received only more enemy fire an answer. Lt. Chauncy of Co. "M" was unable to contact his headquarters. At 0545 Capt. Small, British Survey Regt. called to inform us that he has a small outpost to the left of the hard road leading to Caumont which is part of a sound ranging outfit and wants to be kept posted on our tactical situation. He will have a lance corporal act as liaison for exchange of information. Col. Bryde and Major Greene, 33 FA, visited Bn. from 1030 to 1115 in regard to close unobserved fire for 155 mm rifles. Capt. Washburn with Lts. Breen and McClain of 745th Tank Battalion visited Blue 6 in regard to suitable position for 75mm assault gun platoon. At 1245 hrs Col. Seitz and Lt. Col. Learnard visited Bn. Col. Nye, IG Dept., visited the companies of our Bn and seemed well pleased to find morale of the men quite high. He left the Bn. at 1830 hrs. Col. Southerland, and Major Rippert also visited the Bn. today. At 2100 hrs. Capt. Davis of 1st Bn., British 6th Queens Regt. discussed S-2 activities with Lt. Reynolds. Fair weather continued but it is quite windy today. Casualties for the day: 5 malaria and 2 wounded in action. June 29th - There is no change in our tactical situation. Lt. Revette, AT Co. reports his mission, to shell farm house believed to be enemy CP, complete. Used 9 rounds of HE and 3 rounds of incendiary. There was good coordination with smoke and no counter-battery fire. Visitors for today: Capt. Davis and Col. Mason, 1st Bn., Artillery. Col. Seitz and Lt. Col. Learnard at 1500 hrs. Col. Gara and Major Crowley, 1st Engr Bn, at 1600 hrs. At 2330 hrs. Lt. Matthews, Co. "I", left with combat patrol to capture enemy guns believed to be 75mm. We have had occasional showers today and it seems to be clearing this evening. Casualties for the day: 3 malaria and 2 men absent sick. June 30th - Our defensive position is still static. Enemy artillery continues to shell our area though it is somewhat lighter than it has been for the last few days. Lt. Matthews patrol returned at 0300 hrs. Patrol got within 200 yds of position held by enemy from where they were able to see two guns and heard two others fire. These guns were definitely heavier than 75 mm. Lt. Matthews estimated the enemy much too strong for his patrol so they went no further. Their mission was not accomplished. Col. Bryde of the 33rd FA reports four (4) M-8's going in as a battery of artillery at 70956130, tied into 33 FDC. 1000 rounds to be fired through 33rd FA OP's. Anti-aircraft 50 cal. machine guns are set up at road junction 70667172 and fire over Red Bn. Col. Bryde, 33rd FA left Bn. at 1120 hrs. Visitors for the day: Maj. Barrington, 72nd Royal Arty. Capt. Davis, British 6th Queens Regt. Capt. Kelley and Col. Seitz of our regt. Col. Corley visited British from 1450 to 1625 hrs. At 1540 hrs. a patrol from Co. "I" reached a point at 730595 and was fired on by machine guns. Patrol leader was hit in the head and taken back by British. Fire seems to come from 730595. Blue 2 went 724594 at 1740 hrs and was fired on by 88mm from 733583. Saw two (2) men walking along hedgerow at 727591 at small house in rear of large farm house also 2 men in foxholes. He found single apron wire running approximately 725594 to 726594 at a 140 degree angle. A large air armada of British bombers flew over our position at 2200 hrs. There were 250 planes that released 1000 tons of bombs on Villers Bocage where enemy was massing for attack. We saw three planes hit, one disintegrating completely in the attack. Companies "K" and "I" are exchanging positions today. Three quarters of Co. "I" are in new position by 2400 hrs. The weather is clear again today and it is quite warm. Casualties for the day: 1 malaria, 1 wounded. July 1st - Our position is still defensive. Artillery fire falls intermittently, however, not as heavily as several days ago. Co. "I" & Co. "K" completed their exchange of position at 0045 hrs. At 0310 hrs. Lt. Willis, 33rd FA, reported through the British 6th Queens Regt. from Le Mesnil. He says enemy in force has strong entrenchments, personnel and track vehicles. At 0715 Co. "I" dawn patrol reported mine fields at 72845943 and wire at 730595. Blue 6 ordered two recon patrols to work south on trail from "K" Co. to Le Mesnil at 1000 hrs. One patrol to work each side of trail 100 yards width. Patrol returned at 1405 hrs. Reported receiving Anti tank gun fire at 729593. Received small arms fire from east. Patrol requested artillery fire on area. At 1300 hours Co. More, 41st Armoured Inf. visited S-6. Reports "C" Co. of his unit now on our left and discussing better tying in of flanks. Col. Learnard was attached to the bn. at 1420 hrs. Col. Seitz gave orders for mortar fire to be increased to one unit of fire per day. Twenty four hour harassing fire to be coordinated with artillery thru Lt. Willis. Patrol laid on at 1500 hours consisting of one squad of Co. "K" plus BAR team (2 men), 2 intelligence men, 2 AP demolition men and Lt Sampson. Sound power phones and reel of wire to be taken. Mortars to be fired from 2235 to 2238 and coordinated with artillery through Lt. Willis. First report from patrol at 2251 hours. One man wounded from AP mine and one hit by small arms fire. At 2300 hours Co. Seitz visited the Bn. and gave orders for artillery and mortar fire to be placed on known targets at 0400, 0440 and 0500 hrs to counteract possible enemy counterattack. Weather for today: Light showers, Casualties: 1 malaria, 1 ab sk Visitors to Bn: Col. Moore, 41st Arm. Inf. at 0645, Lt Nichols and Capt. Washburn, 745th Tank Bn. 1040 to 1115. Capt. Anderson, MD 1st Engrs at 1640. July 2nd - Our situation continues as before. At 0257 Lt. Sampson's patrol returned. Reported running into mine fields (AT & AP) and receiving machine gun fire from 729594, Also receiving machine gun fire, believed to be American light, from 730595. At 0940 S-6 called for detail of 1 Sgt. & 2 EM equipped with sniper rifles to cover enemy mine field & deny anyone from laying mines. Detail to leave 1100 hrs. At 1000 hrs. S-6 order half squad out to observe artillery fire. At 1230 Recon. group, follows sniper detail, consisting of 1st Sgt, & 3 EM. Patrol went to 7295945. Movement heard at approximately 727594. Artillery fire is proving very effective. K-6 reports first artillery fire on mined area at 1515. At 2035 S-6 orders two patrols to leave "K" Co. at 0500 hrs. 4 men with automatic rifles will cover squad going to 726593. Artillery reports good results from 6 tanks at 704619 being used as artillery. Enemy observed leaving burning houses. We had the followings visitors today: Lt. Col. Bryde, 33rd FA, 1500-1525, Lt. Col. Southerland, Regt. S-5 1500 to 1525. Capt Barnett, 5th FA, 1520 to 1525 and Capt. Carney at 1830 hrs. Weather was clear this morning but became cloudy and rain in the afternoon. Casualties: 3 malaria, 1 wounded in action. July 3rd - There is no change in our position and artillery exchange continues. Two patrols from Co. "K" left at 0300. S/Sgt Solarski with 8 men and PFC. Merritt with 3 men (BAR team) proceeded across road, with mission of drawing fire. Two groups deployed on W. side of trail running south to Le Mesnil. They located an enemy machine gun at 72875944 and one at 72655956. They heard noise of stakes being pounded in at 7265592 to 7285940. They returned at 0430 hrs. Blue 6 instructed K-5 to lay on recon at 0945 in readiness for patrol to capture prisoners. At 1830 hrs. patrol ordered to leave and get mines. Patrol to return at 0230. Visitors to the Bn. today: Col. Seitz and Col. Bryde, 33rd FA, 1945 to 2005 hrs. Weather: Generally cloudy with light showers most of the day. Casualties: 3 abs. sck. July 4th - The fireworks here consisted of artillery burst however we are sending "Jerry" considerable more than we are receiving. Activity is confined to patrols. At 0105 K-6 reports friendly artillery falling at 728592, Delta, Premium, and Princess Red were all checked but source still undiscovered. At 0230 Lt. Vadaszy in charge of "K" Co. patrol to 726593 reports reaching point at 727593 where he located mines. Mortar Barrage failed to neutralize the enemy. He returned to communication line. Patrol was sent back by K-6, reached point at 727593 and received small arms fire. Returned at 0310 without reaching or accomplishing their mission. Lt. Kuhin, "C" Co. of 745th Tank Bn. visited CP says his platoon will work with our Bn. when Regt. assigns tanks to us. At 1150 Dextrous 6 called for 15 round per tube on selected targets at 1200 hrs. At 1900 hrs. patrol #1 ordered from "K" Co. consist of 6 BAR men, 6 rifleman and 2 NCO's. They ill leave at 2340 hrs. for point at 724594, to fire on enemy at 725951 for ten (10) minutes. Artillery will be layed on target from 2340 - 2354. Patrol is to return 0030. Patrol "2 ordered to leave "K" Co. at 0245 to go to 725591. Patrol includes 1 squad from Co. "K", 1 BAR team with 2 tommy guns. Lt. Allen with 4 A & P men, and 1 intelligence man. Mission is to get prisoner. One BAR team to cover squad from 729595 patrol to return at 0515. At 2030 Co. Southerland called says limit on mortar ammunition is lifted but 1/3 unit per day remains on all other ammunition. Report from patrol "1, "K" Co. at 2400 hrs. says, patrol received fire from at least 5 machine guns and some mortar fire. Company position received mortar and artillery fire. They had no casualties. We were notified today that our Bn. is to trade positions 1st Bn. tomorrow. Visitors include Co. Seitz, Major Rippert, and Captain Kelly all of Regt. Weather: Raining in morning, clearing about noon time. Casualties: 3 cases malaria, and 3 absent sick. July 5th - The bn. is preparing to move to 1st Bn. positions tonight. Artillery fire was tripled at 0200 hrs. to help "K" Co. patrol however the patrol under Lt. Vadaszy failed. At 0312 K-6 reports enemy patrol moving toward their left flank. Bn. began moving at 1900 hrs. Hq Co and "M" Co are in position by 2255 hrs. At 2400 hrs patrol of Co K returned with the report of knocking our one machine gun. Four men were sent out to investigate. Weather: Clear. Casualties: 1 wounded, 1 abs sck. Visitors: Major Hafermaltz, Col. Gara and Col. Seitz. July 6th - We spent the day getting settled in our new location. The men are digging in and renovating shallow trenches used by 1st Bn. Anti-Tank platoon completed their move at 0150 and Co. L at 0226. We heard Jerry fire 12 rounds from Nebelwerfer at 0630 hrs and 3 more at approximately 0655 hrs. from our right flank. Major Rippert called at 0755 said dismounted men will be attached to our Bn. They will make 2 daylight and 2 night patrols with us. Heavy traffic report on main road from Jurques at 74624930 was registered in on by 155mm gun battery. Dextrous 3 reports camouflage of area in good shape. Our area was checked from air by Piper Cubs. He also notified us that Cubs would be over area during the night endeavoring to locate the enemy artillery. Today was another nice day, clear, sunny and warm. Casualties: 2 malaria, 2 WIA. Visitors for the day: Col. Seitz at the new CP. July 7th - Men continue to improve our position. Co. K is now in their new location. Enemy planes bombed town of Caumont at approximately 0130 hrs this morning leaving firs burning in the ruin houses of a large part of the town. At 1000 hrs enemy artillery knocked out our radio jeep, killed one man and wounded three others. One of the wounded was a man attached from 33rd FA. Visitors for the day included Gen. Wyman and Col. Seitz. The day has been nice. It is warm and the sun is shining. July 8th - There is little activity other than the exchange of artillery fire. The men are digging in the transportation we have with us and making general improvements in the area. At 0330 Col. Pace of the Artillery called information gathered from PW. Prisoner states his Bn. located 300 yds east of Sande Surdome preparing for small daylight attack. Nothing developed of this report yet. At 2345 enemy troop convoy coming into Briqussard was shelled by our artillery. The weather today has been cloudy and we have had several showers. Casualties for today: 3 abs sck. July 9th - It is still quiet except for the exchange of artillery and a bit of sniper fire heard about 0045 hrs. Co. runner Co. L reported their outpost pinned down by machine gun fire and tanks were heard to L Co front. At 0150 outpost returned but they were sent back and instructed to knock out enemy machine gun if necessary. Col. Seitz arrived in Bn. area at 1145 hrs and 1330 hrs he presented Purple Hearts to ten EM of the Bn who were recently wounded in action. The day has been generally overcast with light showers. Casualties were 3 abs sck and 1 WIA. July 10th - Our activity is still limited to patrols and exchange of artillery. Patrol left Co. I consisting of Sgt. Turtura, PFC Pisnok and PFC. Norman all of Co. I. Also, PFC Newman and Pvt. Foski of 2nd Recon. and went to a point at 72655928. Heard voices at 72605923. They then went to 72455900, when they heard voices and vehicles motors in orchard at 72475900. At 72355892 Patrol discovered wire in the road and mine field they also heard the click of a machine gun bolt and voices in the corner of the field. To the south east they were able to see a blue light burning in a house and heard vehicles in an orchard at 72455874. A 77mm fired from 72255869 to the NE. Patrol returned. At 1615 a recon patrol was laid on to leave Co I under Lt Matthews at 1700 hrs. Mission: to get a prisoner and obtain identification of unit to our front. We had one man wounded today. It has been raining and cloudy all day. Visitors today: Major Rainey our former Bn. surgeon, and Col. Seitz. July 11th - The engineers with details from the Bn. are laying barbed wire in front of Co K. Men are working hard at night on this detail and draw fire from the enemy occasionally. Patrol of I Co. returned at 0110 hrs. Heard voices at 71663880 believed to be from C Co., 6th Pz. Regt. A combat patrol was laid on at 1510 hrs. Lt Eggebrecht and one squad to go to a point at 724588. There mission was to knock out an enemy machine gun, capture a prisoner and get identification of the unit to our front. Visitors for the day: Col. Seitz and Major Hafermaltz. The weather for the day has been rainy and it is very muddy underfoot. Casualties for the day include 3 abs sck, 1 nervous exhaustion, 4 WIA, and 1 self inflicted wound. Capt. Chaplin received a mine shell fragment wound in the leg however not badly enough to require leaving his company. July 12th - C Co of the Engr rendered invaluable service in the preparation of defensive position and installation. Details of men from the Bn., working with the Engr's have laid mines from 72385916 to 72****** 72425952 to 72525958. At 0330 patrol returned. They observed********* in at 7196-5875 and contacted mine fields at 72395856. One man lost his leg and another was slightly wounded by ******** men have laid barbed wire at the following points 72005897***** --72475940. These are connected by a trip wire extending to ******** At 2100 hrs, Sgt. Lamphear of Co L reported enemy 80mm mortar at *** -578. This was registered in on effective results. They scored a direct hit and several on the bracket. Today has been cloudy and******** Casualties were 4 WIA and two men with malaria. July 13th - During the early morning patrols from Co I reported considerable pounding in vicinity of 71355863. This was also reported to white bn. and we were informed by them that these noises are generally followed by heavy artillery barrage. At 0330 our artillery laid harassing fire on this area. Major Rippert called the bn. at 1200 hrs. He informed us that we were being relieved by the 3rd Bn. of the 11th Inf. Our line companies are to begin their move at 0130 hrs. July 14, 1944. Hq Co began march at 2030 hrs. We arrived at assembly point approximately 2½ miles from our old position at approximately 2130 hrs to await relief of the rest of the bn. It has been very rainy today. Casualties: Two (2) malaria, 8 WIA and one KIA. July 14th - Our line companies moved out under the cover of darkness followed by Hq Co at 0730 hrs. We traveled about twenty-five miles to an area near Mestry. Most of the day has been spent setting up camp and generally cleaning up. Col. Seitz visited our new area about noon time today. It has been a beautiful day, not excessively hot but warm and sunny. Casualties for the day 2 sick to hosp. July 15th - Bn. is pretty well settled in their new location. The men spend the day taking showers, doing laundry and general details around the camp. The weather is still clear and warm. Casualties for the day were as follows, 3 malaria and abs sck. July 16th - We enjoyed a late chow this morning having hot cakes for breakfast. Both Protestant and Catholic services were held in our area. The weather is still grand except for a short time early his morning when it was damp and chilly. There were 3 men sent to the hosp. with 1 abs sick. July 17th - We spend this morning on a hike which lasted approximately 3 hrs. This afternoon was pay day. The first since a partial pay May 27. Visitors were: Capt Kelly, Regt. and Col. Seitz from 1600 hrs to 1700 hrs. Good weather continues and is appreciated by everyone. Casualties: 2 malaria, 1 self inflicted wound and 2 abs sick. July 18th - Today has been spent doing routine drill and usual camp duties. Capt. Uffner and Lt. Tenenbaum reported into bn. from the 41st replacement Bn. at 1400 hrs. Today was warm and sunny. Casualties: 2 malaria and 1 absent sick; July 19th - Men spent the morning hiking. The afternoon has been devoted to routine camp duties. Col. Learnard visited the CP. The sky has been cloudy and overcast all day however no rain so far. No casualties for the day. July 20th - Men doing regular camp duties. Movement orders were received at 1000 hrs. Advance detail consisting of one officer and one NCO left at 1000 hrs. There was a meeting of all company commanders at the Bn. CP at 1300 hrs. Chaplain Flynn came down to hold mass at 1600 hrs in the Bn area. Regt. notified us that the Red Cross would be down at 1600 hrs to serve do-nuts & coffee. Col. Seitz visited the Bn. at 1800 hrs. The afternoon was spent at Bn. Motor Pool at 2145 hrs, and moved out at 2330 hrs. Men bedded down for the evening. Rained all the time. Casualties: 2 malaria and 2 abs sick. July 21st - Men had hot chow for breakfast and were allowed to pitch tents. Day was spent camouflaging tents and digging slit trenches. Col. Seitz and Col. Sutherland visited the Bn. 14 men returned from the hosp today. Weather for the day was rain. Casualties: 1 malaria. July 22nd - Men had routine camp duties. Twenty-one men returning from the hosp. There was a meeting of all the company commanders at the Bn. CP at 1900 hrs. Capt. Clisson and Capt. Murphy visited the Bn. Casualties were: 6 malaria and one abs sick. July 23rd - The day was spent doing regular camp duties. Church services were held in the Bn. area. Major Hafermaltz visited the Bn. Weather was fair today. There were no casualties. July 24th -Men doing regular camp duties. Weather was real nice for a change. Visitors for the day was General Wyman, Col. Sutherland, Capt. Kohout, Maj. Hafermaltz, and Lt. Reuben. Casualties: 1 malaria, 1 abs sck. July 25th - Regular routine camp duties. Around 1000 hrs one of the greatest air-armadas ever seen in France passed on its way to a bombing mission. Mass was held at 1900 hrs. in the Bn. area. Weather was fair. Casualties: 2 malaria and 1 abs sick. July 26th - The day has been quiet. Except for the rumble of artillery up ahead and planes overhead, the war seems distant. The weather is cooler today though still sunny and bright. At 1430 hrs. Maj. Hafermaltz visited our Bn. CP. Casualties for the day were 2 malaria and 2 A. S. July 27th - The morning was rainy and the skies cloudy and overcast. The men spent the day doing necessary details in preparation for a move. At 1600 hrs, Regt notified us to be ready to move out at 1900 hrs. Capt. Washburn of the 745th tank Bn. with a company of tanks was attached to our bn. at 1700 hrs. We left our area near St. Jean De Haye at 2000 hrs and traveled approximately 12 miles by convoy to an assembly area near La Duquerie (396644 sheet 31/16 SE., 1/25000). We arrived at 2130 hrs and were met here by Col. Seitz. The men dug in and bedded down for the night. The weather cleared this afternoon and it was warm. Casualties were none. July 28th - Chow was served at 0430 hrs this morning due to orders from Regiment for bn. to be ready to move on 30 minutes notice after 0530 hrs. At 0945 hrs Capt. Kelley visited CP. We now have the 3rd Platoon of the 635th TD attached to our bn. We left La Duquerie at 1210 hrs. Convoy was led by Co I followed by K, M, L, and Hq. Co. We traveled 8 miles to an area where we detrucked at 1345 hrs. From this point on we moved forward by foot approximately one mile to a position 1000 yds north of Savigny (31775750)sheet #31/16 NE ). Co. I encountered slight resistance enroute and one of our tanks was knocked out by enemy fire. Companies sit up on line with Co I to our left, Co. L in front and Co K to our right. Artillery LO reported enemy tanks at 314515 at 1530 hrs. Type and number tanks unknown due to lack of observation. Enemy forces to our front consist of one battalion of paratroops and a motor pool company serving them with supplies. We have captured 18 of their prisoners. 4 of S.S. Regt. Artillery, 3 of 945th Inf. Grenades 3rd Co. 353 Div., Seven of the 6th Paratroop Reg and 4 of the motor pool company. At 2320 Co K patrol to 305565 returned. They exchanged small arms fire with enemy at 305575. Major Carvey our former exec. off. visited our CP at 2105 hrs. We were informed today that Capt. Hughes is now a Maj. The weather has been nice except for a light rain about noon time. Casualties for the day were: nine men wounded, 2 of the men attached to us from the 735th (745th?) tank bn. were KIA 1 wounded. July 29th - At 0150 hrs Maj. Rippert notified our bn. that White Bn. was attacking this morning. Col Daniels desired a close tie in with Co L and our mortars. At 0340 Lt. Baker reported his patrol found nothing at point 314565 where enemy tanks had been reported. He believed that the enemy had withdrawn to a road junction at 312566. Patrols that were sent out by blue 6 from Co's L and K at 1015 hrs were unable to contact enemy. We were alerted to move at 1830 hrs and at 2210 our convoy left the area near Savigny. After traveling approximately 17 miles we arrived at an assembly area near La Dovilliers at 0015 hrs where we bedded down for the night waiting orders to move into the attack in the morning. The weather continues warm with very light showers during the day. Casualties for the day were three WIA and one Off. abs sck. July 30th - We left assembly area near La Dovilliers at 0930 hrs by foot led by Co L with Co's I, K, M, and Hq Co following. Our mission is to secure the high ground in the vicinity of a stream crossing at 359424 for the 8th Corps. Co L moved forward and took the area on the west side of the crossing. Co's I and K supported by M & Hq. Co. moved on along the main road and attacked on the stream bed and a portion of the main road along the west slope where they met stiff resistance from artillery, mortars, and small arms fire. The area was full of snipers that continued to harass our troops as they moved. Our fighter planes strafed and bombed ahead of us hoping to break down the enemy's resistance. Co's I and K reached their objective at 1600 hrs and by 1800 hrs their positions along the ridge were fairly secured. At 1800 hrs Co L was ordered to disengage themselves on the west side of the river and rejoin the battalion in the vicinity of La Fouber Diere to secure the rear of our bn. position. They arrived in this position at 2230 hrs. The Bn CP & Hq. Co arrived at new position near Tour Deval les Bois (358-404) at 1900 hrs. Artillery was still falling on our positions. The Bn. took thirty-two prisoners during the day. They were members of the 275 Inf. and artillery and the 945th SS Panzer Div. The weather is still nice except for very light showers in the morning. Casualties for the day were 39 WIA, 1 abs sck and 8 men KIA. July 31st - Co I was contacted this morning by Red Bn at 0130 hrs. They are on our right flank. We took two more prisoner of the 943rd Grenadiers Regt. this morning. At 1600 hrs we were alerted to move and loaded on trucks at 1725 hrs. The kitchens brought hot chow for supper. The men bedded down to try to get a little sleep before moving out. Casualties for the day: None. It has been warm and sunny. Aug lst - The Bn. moved out at 0225 this morning. The order of convoy was Co's K, I, Hq. Co., L, and M. Anti-Tank guns, TD atch'd and tanks. At 0615 hrs the advance unit led by Lt. Selleck, Bn. S-2 & Comm Off of our column met 2 M-4 enemy tanks and several enemy vehicles. Sgt. Morgan in charge of the Anti-Tank half-track was killed by enemy machine-gun fire after he had knocked out an ammunition truck with his 50 cal. Companies K & I engaged the enemy at 0625 hrs. K attacked to the right of the road, Co I astride the main road, and Co's L and M moved up the main road in support. The CP detrucked at 0650 hrs and set up in a house at 406243 1/25000 34/12 SW. Regt. CP was in adjoining house. The line companies moved forward meeting only light resistance from small arms and mortars. At 0820 Co I and K reached the high ground which was their objective assigned to the Bn. At 1100 hrs the CP displaced forward to 410243 1/25000 34/12 SW. From 1200 to 1500 hrs Red Bn. passed through our position. Several Jerry planes strafed in our area at 1530 hrs but did no damage. The Bn. captured approximately one hundred prisoners during the day. They seem to be stragglers of the same unit that we contacted yesterday. Col. Seitz & Capt. Kelly checked the companies positions at 1700 hrs. Major Carvey visited CP at 1740 hrs. 1st Sgt. Buck, Hq. Co. is now acting platoon leader for Bn. A. P. platoon. Clear, sunny continues. Casualties: 3 men WIA, 1 KIA, 2 hosp. (malaria) Aug 2nd - We are still in position in area near Lar Martiniere (410-243) however we are now alerted to be ready to move on two hr notice. Much has happened since Aug. 2nd 2 years ago when we left New York for Tidworth England. At 1700 hrs we were to take up our same defensive position as last night in the expectation of a counter-attack. Lt. Russell is now Bn. Comm. Off. replacing Lt. Selleck who is now Bn. S-2. It has been a typical summer day, warm and sunny. Casualties were 10 abs sk 2 malaria. Aug. 3rd - At 1000 hrs we were alerted to move. Col Sutherland is now attch'd to our Bn. and working with Blue-6. At 2120 hrs we moved out on trucks in the order, I, K, L, Hq, and M Co's. After traveling approximately 19 miles we detrucked at a house at 527140 in the town of Juvigny Le Fertre at 0100 hrs and set up our CP for the night. We are still having good weather. Casualties for the day, 1 malaria. Aug 4th - We moved forward today to an area at 5522144 at 0930 hrs. Companies have dug in for defensive. Co I on our right Co K in front, and Co L on our left. Co M is in general support. Col Corley left the Bn at 1900 hrs for the hospital. The weather is still clear and sunny. Casualties: abs sk--l, 1 malaria. Aug 5th - We are still in our defensive position. Activity has been confined to the exchange of artillery and the usual patrols. During the day our planes were strafing and bombing out ahead of us and during the night Jerry planes dropped bombs and flares in the vicinity of our position. Capt. Carney of Red Bn. is now atch'd to our bn. as S-5. At 1805 hrs Co K sent out a recon patrol of 1 Sgt. and 2 men approximately 500 yds to their front. Patrol returned at 2235 hrs & reported vehicles moving NE. At 1830 we were notified that the 117th Inf. was going to take over our position. Co K sent 3 man patrol to contact this outfit. At 2300 hrs. Maj. Rippert visited CP in regard to transfer of 24 EM to 2nd Bn. The weather continues good. Casualties for the day 6 malaria 1 abs sk. Aug 6th - At 0030 hrs all companies were notified to arrange guides for our relief, also notified to move transportation to M Co motor pool area. At 0235 the three man patrol from Co K returned. Patrol was unable to make physical contact with Nudge Charlie (39th Inf) due to enemy patrol operating in vicinity. A light skirmish between patrols ensued however no casualties were reported. We were notified by regt. that our mission after moving out would be securing the river crossing at 835764 on the La Mayenne river and holding the high ground NE of St Fraimbault De Prieres for the 7th Corps. The Bn. moved out at 1835 hrs in the order of Co's I, K, M, Hq. and L. Just before leaving the assembly area our trucks were strafed by approximately 15 ME 109's. This was followed by an artillery barrage, one shell landing a few feet from one of our two and a half tons, put it out of running condition, killed 1 bn. medic, and wounded two others. After traveling forty-1 miles we detrucked at an area at 73803885-Sheet 7G.5 at 2107 hrs. At 2300 to 0130 hrs our company commander reconnoitered the area in advance of our position. Sgt. Surque of Co L with his squad located a shallow place and guided the companies across the stream. Lt. Bonner checked the stream for crossing for his Anti-Tank guns. The weather has been warm and clear. Casualties: 1 KIA, 7 WIA. Aug 7th - At 0330 Bn. began its advance. The leading company reached its objective at 0500 hrs just in time to see Jerry wave goodbye, as the enemy withdrew. Companies took up defensive positions as follows: Co K on our right, Co L in the town, and Co I on our left with Co M in support. At 0500 hrs the CP displaced forward to 828768 sheet 7G.5 and at 1?00 hrs move across the river to point at 837764 where we and one personnel carrier returned to our lines captured our outpost of two men and came forward into town. Our troops opened up on them and forced them to withdraw. The two men from OP managed to escape as they withdrew however one was wounded. Summer weather is still here and the sky is bright and clear. Casualties: 1 KIA, 2 WIA. 2 malaria, 4 abs sk. Aug 8th - We are still in our defensive position. During the night enemy planes were continually over our position however most of the activity was confined to dropping flares. Our artillery has shelled enemy territory with harassing fire all day. A few enemy shells fell in the vicinity of the bridge, however, no damage was done. The weather has been clear but clouded and a light rain fell about 1000 hrs. Casualties: 3 abs sk. Gen. Wyman visited the CP this afternoon. Aug 9th - This morning we received a few enemy artillery shells on our position. We could hear firing on our left which was reported as l8th Inf. making an attack. Col Bryde 33rd FA, Col. Seitz, Maj Rippert, and Maj. Haffermaltz visited our CP today. We are still having good weather. Casualties for the day: 1 Off, 1 EM abs sk. Aug 10th - The Bn. continues in its defensive positions. At 0640 I Co patrol operating in the vicinity of RR bridge north of point D was pinned down by rifle fire. Reported one man killed and one wounded missing at 0820. At 0930 enemy tank was reported by Lt. Bonner at 853763. The tank was forced to withdraw by our artillery. An artillery barrage was laid in over bn. area at 1200 hrs today killing 7 men and wounding 3 others. Heavy enemy artillery fell in our area at 2115 hrs. This barrage was followed by a light attack on our outpost which was rapidly repulsed. The weather is still good. Casualties: 3 abs sk, 4 KIA, 4 WIA, 1 missing. Col Seitz visited the CP Today. Aug 11th - Artillery fire is still falling on our position. Routine patrols to our front and flanks are being made continually. Co K has pushed forward and placed a combat outpost at the railroad station 848758. At 1200 hrs the artillery and anti-tank guns of Lt Bonner anti-tank platoon of our Hq Co laid a barrage on the houses near the station. This barrage was followed by Lt Baldwin's platoon moving in both flanks with machine guns on our anti-tank half track supporting them. At about 200 yds from their objective Lt. Bonner with a patrol from K Co encountered a self propelled gun on the road with their bazooka gunner pinned down from an 88 also fire from snipers and machine guns. The patrol returned and the platoon move on its objective at approximately 1900 hrs. Eight prisoners were taken and Jerry aid men were observed evacuating many casualties. Seven rounds of heavy enemy artillery landed near the CP at approximately 2130 hrs. Col Seitz spent the afternoon with us and visited Lt Baldwin's platoon at 1440 hrs while they were pushing forward to their new position. Summer weather continues. Casualties for the day: 7 abs sk, 4 WIA. Aug 12th - Our position remains unchanged. Artillery still falls in Bn area. Enemy artillery fell on Lt Banner gun crew wounding 5 of his men and two men on company I outpost. We took two Polish prisoners today. Weather hot & sunny. Casualties for the day 8 wounded 1 abs sk. Aug 13th - During the early morning 1st and 2nd Bn's moved up to our position and at 0630 hrs began moving forward without meeting resistance. We have alerted to follow them at 0800 hrs and 1025 moved out of our area on foot in reserve of the 2 bn's. We arrived at assembly area near Couterne (964931) sheet 7G/1 1/50,000) at 1940 hrs where we chow. South of Lasany we were notified that 1st Bn, moving on the left of the main road had encountered wet, and swampy area and was held up. We then became assault Bn. and moved forward to the left of our 2nd Bn. Co L met only light resistance at the river crossing. At 2100 hrs we moved our CP forward and set up in a house at 930944 1/50,000 Sh. 7G1. We had traveled 18 miles and arrived, according to the French, approximately 20 minutes after Jerry pulled out of our CP. We captured 6 prisoners today and identified their outfit as 1050th Grenadier Regt. It has been very hot and the men are tired from the long march but their morale in still good. Casualties were 2 WIA and 1 KIA. One off. KIA, Lt. Pfenninger. Aug 14th - We were alerted to be ready to move again this morning. We had hot chow and tried to get a little rest before moving out again. Our next Reg't objective was the town of La Ferte Mace. The order of march was Co K, tanks atch'd, anti-tank platoon, Bn. Commander with Co L, self-propelled guns, M Co, Bn anti-tank platoon, Hq Co & TD gun platoon. IP time was set for 1215 hrs. We moved out behind 1st Bn, the group leaving at 1250 hrs. After marching a distance of 7 miles we set up our CP in a building that had been a Jerry hq's in La Ferte Mace. (012021 Sh. #40/10 SW) We met very little resistance. Sniper fire held up our column for a short time and we captured 5 prisoners. the weather is still very warm. Casualties: 1 malaria, 4 abs sk, 1 WIA. Aug 15th - We are still in position at La Ferte Mace. K Co's on our right L to our front and I on our left dug-in for defensive. In the afternoon we set up showers and began a general clean up. The weather to still hot and sunny. Casualties were as follows: 4 abs sk, 2 mal. and 1 wounded. Aug 16th - We were alerted to move today. We now have our transportation back. Order of Convoy was K, Hq Co, M, I and L Co's. We left La Ferte Mace at 2045 hrs and arrived at an area (984082) 1/25,000 sheet 37/10 SE) near La Mont D'Here at 2145 hrs. We traveled approximately nine miles. Combat Infantryman's Badge was awarded to those men who were listed on General orders # 2, 4, 5, 14, and 17. Hq. 26th Inf. (3 Jan 1944). Casualties: 3 mal. and 3 abs sk. The weather was sunny and clear today. Aug 17th - Today we moved our CP approximately 500 yds to a wooded area at 985085/37/10 SE 1/25,000). This area had been used by Jerry as a motor pool. At 2145 hrs we were told to be ready to move on two hrs notice. The weather is still hot and sunny. Casualties for the day were 5 mal. 1 abs sk. Aug 18th - The two hour alert has been called off and we now are supposed to be in a rest area. 150 men were permitted to attend a movie in La Ferte Mace this afternoon. Col. Corley spoke to the members of this Bn. at 1200 hrs emphasizing the necessity of holding up our 3rd Bn. standards and calling to our attention that souvenir hunting must be confirmed to Jerry materials and not property belonging to the French. Men are takings showers and cleaning their clothing. The weather is still nice. Casualties: 3 abs sk, 1 mal. Aug 19th - Both Catholic and Protestant services were held in our bn. area today. Men were again permitted to attend a movie and also a USO show. At 1900 hrs the donut wagon came to our area and passed out donuts and coffee. This is the second time since we arrived that we have had the wagon and girls. The weather has been somewhat overcast today, however it isn't raining yet. Casualties: 1 mal. Aug 2lst - Today has been rather miserable from the viewpoint of the weather. It has rained all day and is very muddy underfoot. Movies were shown again today and the men have had wine made available for their purchase. Casualties: 3 abs sk, 1 mal. Aug 22nd - The weather cleared this morning. It has stopped raining and has been a bright sunny day never the less it is still very muddy under foot. Approximately 300 men were permitted to attend the movies again today. 70 more men were permitted to see a USO show. We had an hour of close order drill throughout the bn. today and an inspection of vehicles by the bn. CO. Casualties: 1 mal., 1 abs sk. Aug 23rd - It was cloudy this afternoon, we are still in our rest area. The bn. took a sprint hike from 1100 to 1200 hrs. today. 300 men from the bn, were permitted to attend the movies in La Ferte Mace again today . Casualties: 1 abs sk. At 2000 hrs we were put an a 2 hr alert, notice however we have not moved out but are all prepared to move at any time. Aug 24th - The bn. loaded on trucks at 1230 hrs and at 1358 moved out in the following order: Co's I, L, Hq., K, and M. We traveled at approximately 96 miles and arrived at an area near Courville Sur Mie. (161702 sheet 7G/ 1/50,000), at 2105 hrs. Enroute we passed many Jerry vehicles which apparently had been knocked out by our air corps. Frenchmen stood by the roadside all along the way and seemed very happy that the Americans had come. After a hot meal we bedded down for the night expecting to move on again in the morning. The weather was cloudy but no rain. Casualties: 1 malaria. Aug 25th - Our convoy left the area near Courville Sur Mie at 0645 hrs. We covered 72 miles today arriving at an area at 054058 (Paris Fontain Blue Map Sheet 10/G, 1/100,000), near Ballancourt. The weather is very warm and sunny. Casualties: 3 abs sk and 1 malaria. Aug 26th - We were alerted to be prepared to move on two hrs notice at 1400 hrs. Our transportation returned to Corps again, therefore, at 1605 we moved out on foot in the following order: Co's L, K, Hq, I, and M. After a 9 mile march we arrived at a large house, (ll5l72 Map of Corbiel Sheet 10/G/2, 1/50,000), which was a former German Hq's. and set up our CP in the town of Evry Point Bourg. The French caretaker of this Chateau told us that previous to the conversion of this estate by the Jerries, it had belonged to an Englishman and was built for the entertainment and lodging of American and British tourists. It certainly was fully equipped with all modern conveniences. We had hot chow at 2200 hours and retired for the night. The day was very hot and sunny making it a rather tiresome march. Casualties: 1 malaria, 1 abs sk. Aug 27th - Our stay in Evry Point Bourg was a very short duration. We moved out this morning at 0950 hrs, crossed the Jean Seine River at 1045 hrs, and after a very hot and dusty 22 mile hike arrived at an area at Les Friches 278329 (Paris Fontain Blue Map Sheet 10 G, 1/100,000). People crowded the streets of the towns through which we passed and showed their appreciation for being liberated by showering our boys with apples, pears, grapes, plums, fresh tomatoes, etc. - even an occasional bottle of Vin Rouge. We met no resistance however, we were told that Jerry moved out only last night. The men are tired but their morale is quite good. We sweat out the news broadcast trying to keep with the moves of our armored columns. Capt. Billings, Commander of our Hq Co went to hosp. today either from heat exhaustion or possible malaria. Casualties: 2 abs sk, 2 malaria. Aug 29th - We left Meaux at 1010 hrs this morning. We traveled by truck 18.9 miles and arrived at Marieuel Sur Aurrco at 1200 hrs. Our bivouac area was at 614713 Map of Marsieuel Sheet 175, 1/50,000). We followed our 2nd Bn. and so far haven't met any resistance. The weather was cloudy and rainy all day. Casualties were, 3 abs sk. Aug 30th - Today we led the Regt again. At 0810 hrs. we moved out on trucks and after a 24 mile ride arrived at Les Chandiers (Map of Villers Cotterets 1/50,000, coordinates of CP 768953). It was very cloudy until evening when the sun came out for a short period. We did not meet any resistance. The weather was cloudy and rainy all day. Casualties were: 3 abs sk. Aug 31st - We left the area near Les Chandiers at 2000 hrs on vehicles and arrived at a former Jerry Hqs. at 889033, ½ mile SE of Allemont (Map of Laconk, Sheet 146, 1/50,000) at 2150 hrs. This move was approximately 16 miles. Jerry was well dug in in this area, concrete shelters, pill boxes, and deep trenches. The weather cleared this evening, but it is quite windy. Casualties: 3 abs sk. Sept. lst - It was raining this afternoon when we left Allemont at 1730 hrs. We traveled by trucks approximately 65 miles to Vervins and set up our CP for the night at 244411 (Map of Franco-Belgium sheet 118, 1/50,000) at 2300 hrs. Casualties: 1 mal. Sept.2nd - We left Vervins at 1023 this morning. After traveling 27 miles we arrived at a house where Jerry had been set up in the town of Avesnes (279757 Map of Avesnes, Sheet 63, 1/50,000) at 1525 hrs. The weather is still cloudy but it has quit raining. Casualties: 1 abs sk. Sept 3rd - We have finally caught up with Jerry. We left Avesnes at 0815 hrs on trucks and ran into light resistance at 1000 hrs north of La Longueville. From this time we continued to move slowly, clearing out pockets of Jerries along the way. We encountered some mortar fire small arms fire and 20 mm Cannon fire. We detrucked at Sars La Bruyere and continued to march to the town of La Frameries, (271017 Map of Mons, sheet 76, 1/50,000), Belgium. We took approximately 1111 prisoners today. During our advance the air corps strafed and bombed enemy columns that were withdrawing ahead of us. Vehicles both motor and horsedrawn, were knocked out all along the road. The Belgium people are just as happy for our troops arrival as the French were. The weather is still cloudy but it is not raining. Casualties: 1 KIA, 14 WIA, 4 malaria. Order of march today: L, Command Group, K, Hq, M, I. L by itself, practically cleared all resistance to bn. advance. Sept 4th - This morning our bn. took up positions around La Frameries for defense of the town. Prisoners were brought in all during the day and there has been a lot of small arms fire, in each of our companies sector. The weather is still very unsettled, occasional showers followed by short periods of sunshine. Casualties for the day were: 2 malaria 2 abs sk. Total prisoners for the day, 300. Sept 5th - We are still in our defensive positions at La Frameries. All during the night activity continued in the form of small arms fire and some enemy artillery apparently from tanks. Prisoners are still coming in columns of four to the PW cage. The total for the day was 700 and eighty-three. Most of these were captured by Co. L. One patrol from Hq Co. led by Sgt Mosley, of our anti-tank platoon, was responsible for bringing in fifty-three prisoners. Both Catholic and Protestant services were held in town by our Chaplains. Chaplain Chase reported the capture of one Jerry today. 95 German units have been identified from the prisoners captured. The weather is quite cool and somewhat cloudy and overcast. Casualties: 2 abs sk. Sept 6th - We were notified today that we would move out behind our 2nd bn. Our Regt is still following the 3rd Armored Div., clearing the pockets left by this unit. We left La Framieres at 1245 by truck. While traveling the 12 miles we captured 16 prisoners and at 1630 hrs. we arrived at an area near Gosselies (660184 Map of Charleroy, Sheet 77, 1/50,000), and set up our CP. It has been cloudy most of the day and rainy during the night. Casualties: 2 abs sk. Sept 7th - We moved out this morning at 0800 hrs in lead of the regt. We travelled 24 miles and set up our CP at Esghgee (Map of Gesy-Slow, 1/50,000 Sheet 6 F, 992485) at 1430 hrs. Enroute our A&P Platoon halftrack, which was following the lead jeep, was fired on by 4 Jerries with machine pistols, killing one man of the A&P Platoon and wounding 2 others. 3 of the Jerries were captured. Upon arrival in our area, 3 more prisoners were captured, most of these being from the 860th Grenadier Regt. Today 1st Sgt. Tarnapol was relieved from Hq. Co., as 1st Sgt. and 1st Sgt. Kaiser was appointed in his place. Weather: cool and rainy. Casualties: 1 KIA, 2 WIA, and 2 abs sk. Sept 8th - The Bn. moved out at 1015 by truck and traveled 24 miles to an area where we stopped for chow at 1300 hrs. At 1900 hrs we moved out again and after covering 5 more miles, we arrived at Liege (Map of Liege 459312, Sheet 69 1/50,000). The weather: clear and sunny, chilly when riding. Casualties: 2 malaria, 4 abs sk, 2 wounded (accidental). Prisoners: 5. Sept 9th - We are still in the city of Liege. There is no activity in our immediate sector but Jerries planes were over most of the night and we heard bombing in the distance. The weather is clear and cool. Casualties: 1 abs sk. Sept 10th - We moved out today at 1940 hrs., traveled approximately 7 miles and arrived at an area about 500 yds from Fort Evengrell at 2110 hrs. (565296 Map of Liege, Sheet 69, 1/50,000). This was a non-tactical move. Weather: still cold and clear. Casualties: NONE Sept 11th - We left our area at 1315 today on foot. After a 5½ mile march we set up our CP at Geard Sart at 1600 hrs (Map of Verviers 612335, Sheet 70 1/50,000). Enroute we saw some air activity ahead of us and also the burst of artillery shells, however we did not encounter the enemy. After arriving, Co K encountered a few Jerry stragglers and captured them. One K Co man was wounded. Prisoners for the day: 11 The weather was clear and somewhat warmer. Casualties were 1 WIA. Sept 12th - We were alerted to move at 1530 hrs. We moved out at 1800 hrs on foot and arrived at an area near Aubel (675366 Map of Aachen, Sheet 70 1/50,000), and set up our CP. This was approximately a 5 mile trip and we arrived at 2030 hrs. The weather in still clear and sunny. Casualties: NONE Sept 13th - We left Aubel at 0930 hrs on trucks. After a 3 mile ride we arrived at a detrucking area at Barkan at 1100 hrs. From here we moved out on foot, approximately 3 miles, to relieve the 1st Bn. of the 16th Inf. We took over their positions near Aachen (822376 Map of Aachen Sheet 70 1/50,000), and dug in for the night. Artillery fell near our CP. The weather was very warm suggesting rain during the night. Casualties: 1 abs sk, 1 wounded. Sept 14th - At 1245 hrs we left by foot and marched approximately 1 mile where we stopped until 1515 and moved on ¾ of a mile and set up our CP. Enemy artillery shelled our positions quite heavily. The day was cloudy and rainy. Casualties were: 1 KIA, 5 WIA, 1 malaria. Sept 15th - We were alerted to move at 1300 hrs. At 1500 hrs we moved out and after a 4½ mile walk arrived at 854395 (Map Of Aachen, Sheet 70 1/50,000) in our vicinity of Aachen and set up our CP in an hour at 1600 hrs. Upon arrival at our new CP., the enemy threw a barrage of artillery at our new CP. The enemy threw up a barrage of artillery on our motor pool wounding one man. Artillery continued to fall near our position during the balance of the day. The weather has cleared again and the sun is shining. The men are rather disgusted with the rain and mud, but the morale is very good. Casualties: 3 KIA 2 abs sk, 2 malaria. Sept 16th - Most of the day has been confined to the exchange of artillery fire. This afternoon we watched our P-38's have a dog-fight with several ME 109's. We could see one of our planes as it fell. The weather has been nice again today, clear and warm. Casualties for the day were: 3 WIA, 2 abs sk. Sept 17th - We are still in our defensive position. The enemy artillery is still falling in our Bn. area. Lt. Evans of Co L, received a wound in his area while leading a patrol in front of his company. Both Protestant and Catholic services were held in our area today. The weather is cloudy and a light rain fell. Casualties: 1 KIA, 1 SIW, l WIA. Sept 18th - The Bn is still in the same defensive position as yesterday. Enemy artillery continues to fall in our area, apparently harassing fire, and it is not quite as heavy today. At 1130 hrs. Sgt. Smith of Co I, with 7 EM made a patrol into town of Aachen. At 847422 (Map of Aachen) they encountered 20 Jerries and had a light skirmish. They also received enemy fire from a pill box at 835414 and reported an enemy hq's at 847412. Our artillery laid fire on all of these points. The patrol was very successful. They returned at 1230 hrs. The day has been cloudy with light rains intermittently. Casualties were 5 EM abs sk. Sept 19th - There was no change in our position today. Enemy artillery fell in our area, however, there were no heavy barrages. A combat patrol from Co K reached the RR tracks in Aachen but were unable to observe any enemy activity. While returning the patrol encountered fire from two enemy machine guns. The weather was very warm and sunny. Casualties: 5 abs sk. Sept 20th - Activity in our Bn. area today was confined to enemy artillery and mortar fire. A reconnaissance patrol from Co L, made by Sgt. Buttler and two enlisted men, moved through I Co outpost to 853412 where they met with small arms fire from an enemy patrol and drove the patrol to the N.W. Our patrol then proceeded to 855413 and were fired on from a pill box from the N. E. and also by the patrol they had driven to the N.W. Company K sent a combat patrol to 857406 to destroy an enemy tank. Upon reaching a point at 848404 they were fired on by four enemy machine guns and were unable to proceed further and to accomplish their mission. Artillery was requested to fire on these guns. The weather today was cloudy and overcast. Casualties were two malaria and 1 abs sk. Sept 21st -Enemy mortar and artillery fired continued to fall in our area today. A combat patrol left Co K at 0900 hrs proceeded thru I Co outpost to a point at 852420. Here they received fire from a group of twenty Jerries armed with automatic weapons and mortars. The patrol returned thru Co I to their Company. A 3 man recon patrol left Co I at 1700 hrs thru the outpost to a point at 853410. They were fired on and forced to return. Col Seitz and Capt. Clisson of Regt. visited the CP at 1200 hrs and had lunch with Col Corley. 30 new replacements and 10 former Division men from the hosp. came into the bn. as replacements. The weather was bright end warm. Casualties were as follows: 1 malaria. Sept. 22nd - This has been another summer day - warm and sunny. Jerrie is still shelling our area with both artillery and mortar. A routine patrol from Co K moved out in front of the outpost but were fired on after reaching a distance of 200 yds and were forced to return. Gen. Wyman and Col Seitz, visited the CP at 1000 hrs and remained for dinner. At 1430 hrs Gen Huebner and Col Seitz visited the CP with Col Corley. Casualties for the day were 4 abs sk and 1 accidental injury. Sept 23rd - Our defensive position in still inactive except for enemy artillery fire which fell in our area. Co I has set up an observation post in a house to their right front for protection on that flank. At 1730 hrs a combat patrol moved out in front of the outpost but were fired on and forced to return after reaching a distance of 300 yds. 2 men were wounded. The 30 new replacements we received on the 21st of the month, were transferee to 1st bn. The weather today was cloudy with rain in the evening. Casualties were: 2 WIA, 1 malaria and 1 abs sk. Sept 24th - We are receiving some artillery and mortar fire in our area today. 3 men from Co I went out to relieve the man on guard on their outpost. Having made a mistake in the house they believed to be their outpost, the lead man was surprised when he was halted by a German who spoke English and was ordered to put up his hands. The Doggie immediately emptied a clip of M-1 ammunition killing the German soldier. I Co changed the location of their outpost. This morning an 83 year walked into the I Co outpost. Upon questioning her we received the location of many houses in the area where the Germans were located. We sent her back to regiment to take care of these targets with our 57mm guns and artillery. The weather was still rainy and cloudy. Casualties were 2 WIA, 1 abs sk and 1 malaria. Sept 25th - Our defensive position is unchanged and the situation rather static. This evening we pulled a light raid on 3 enemy strongpoints at 854410 (schedule of firing attached). 5 of our atch'd TD's guns and two of our anti-tank guns along with artillery succeeded in knocking out several houses containing enemy at 854412. Results of the raid were negligible however the enemy, fearing a general attack, reacted vigorously by shelling our bn. area with approximately 200 shells of large caliber. One of these shells caused a fire to start in the shed adjoining our CP building, which housed several of our jeeps. Lt. Russell along with Sgt. Osborne, Corporal Fahringer, and Pvt. Arthur Taylor (medical detachment) immediately rushed into the shed and located our radio jeep trailer which was on fire. After removing bazooka ammunition, radio batteries, and other items of signal equipment, they proceeded to extinguish the tree fire with use of extinguishers and tree branches. Weather: cloudy. Casualties: 7 WIA, 5 malaria, and 1 absent sick. Sept. 26th - Enemy artillery continued to cover the bn. area today. At 1815 hrs one shell landed directly on top of our CP building causing light injury to one artillery and one of our men. The following men were awarded decorations at Regt. at 1445 hrs by Gen Huebner: Silver Stars - Pvt. Grobelski, Co M, Cpl Schindlebeck, Hq. Co. & Sgt. Kamolz, Co L. Bronze Stars - Lt Reynolds, Hq Co., Sgt. Lecates, BSO and Pvt. Ferguson, Hq. Co. Col Seitz visited Blue 6 at 1300 hrs. It is cloudy and hazy today with some rain. Casualties were 7 WIA, 3 malaria and 1 malaria. Sept 27th - There is a little change in our position. We moved our CP approximately 200 yds to dugouts that were made by Jerry. 39 Purple Hearts were awarded to members of the Bn. The weather was still cloudy with rain during the night, Cas: 6 WIA Sept 28th - Our activity is still confined to artillery and routine patrols. One patrol of 8 men left company K at 1800 hrs. on a recon and have not as yet returned. Lt. Goodrich of Co I led a patrol out in front of their outpost from 1800 hrs to 2230 hrs. They succeeded finding a Jerry chow line and locating several enemy machine guns. Our artillery will fire on those during the night. The weather is sunny but cooler. Cas: 1 WIA 5 abs sk and 1 malaria. Sept 29th - The two man patrol of Co I returned to their company at 0110 hrs this morning. Sgt. Wise who was in charge reported killing one Jerry and spending part of the night with a Jerry civilian family. (One prisoner on atch'd G-2 periodic report). Our planes have been over today and bombing targets in and on the outskirts of Aachen. The weather gets clear except for haze in the morning and evening. Cas: 2 WIA, 1 neurotic and 1 absent sick. Sept 30th - Activity in our sector is still largely patrol work and the exchange of artillery. Lt Goodrich of Co I led a patrol into Aachen almost to the RR track. The patrol was fired upon and forced to turn back, however four of the men were unable to make it back to our lines. I t is believed that two of these men were killed and the other 2 wounded. The 4 missing men are Sgt. Lothscheutz, Pvt. Thomas, Pvt. Daleyso and Pvt. Harting. The patrol succeeded in locating many targets for our artillery to fire on. Col. Seitz visited the CP at 1500 hrs today. The weather was very bad for observation as it rained during the greater part of the time. Cas: 9 abs sk, 4 WIA. Oct. 1st - We are still receiving a small amount of enemy artillery and considerable mortar fire. Our artillery has pounded targets in and around Aachen all day. Col. Seitz and Lt Col Pace visited the CP this afternoon. The weather was cloudy and rainy. Cas: 1 abs sk. Oct. 2nd - Last night Jerry gave us a little entertainment over a loud speaker set up near the line. They played a couple of pieces of American music and told us we should not shell the people of Aachen. Our applause was in the form of an artillery barrage laid on Aachen for about an hour. Jerry mortars are still shelling our area. The weather is still rainy and cloudy. Cas: 2 WIA 1 malaria, 2 abs sk. Oct 3rd - Routine patrols and artillery are still the only activity in our sector. It rained all day today and observation has been very limited. Cas: 1 WIA, 6 abs sk. Oct 4th - Co L sent out a recon patrol to investigate some houses at 845415, this morning. The patrol was pinned down by machine gun and rifle fire and forced to disperse and return singly. 4 of the men are still missing. A patrol from L Co went out in the evening but was unable to locate the missing men. A combat patrol from Co K went out to 837418 and met resistance from mortars and machine guns. they reported the location and asked for artillery. Col Seitz visited the CP this morning. The weather is still rainy. Cas: 1 abs sk, 1 malaria. Oct 5th - There has been a few of our planes strafing and bombing near Aachen today, also Jerry planes over our position several times. A combat patrol left Co K this morning proceeded to a point at 833408 from where they were able to observe an anti-tank gun and several machine guns at 834412. A recon patrol from L Co left at 1800 hrs, they went as far as 855415 where they encountered a Jerry guard mount. They killed one sentry and returned without losing any men. The weather is clear and it is not quite so muddy. Cas: 4 MIA, 3 abs sk, 3 mal. Oct 6th - Our planes were active over Aachen again today. Routine recon patrols from all companies went out and drew enemy fire. Mortar and artillery continued to shell our area. The weather was sunny and warm. Cas: NONE. Oct. 7th - Artillery barrages are still heavy over Aachen. All of our companies sent out recon patrols which returned before 2100 hrs. They all met with enemy fire before going a couple of 100 yds in front of their position. Our artillery laid a heavy concentration from 2100 to 2400 hrs. in preparation for an early morning attack. The weather is clear and warm. Cas: were 2 WIA, 1 abs sk. Oct 8th - Co L moved forward approximately 300 yds after a heavy shelling by our artillery during the night and early morning. One platoon met heavy resistance at 843413 where they took over Jerries outpost which was their mission. This platoon took 24 prisoners. The attack was a diversion attack to cover a larger push made by the 18th Inf. After setting up the company CP in one of the houses at 856414 voices were heard upstairs saying Yah Yah, and Nix, Nix. A burst of AP from one of our tanks shot thru the top of the house brought down 2 Jerries. A total prisoners for the day were 33. These were from the 352nd Regt. of 211th Div. and the 365th Convalescent Bn. I Co sent a patrol to 840411 that met with heavy machine gun fire. One man was wounded. Co K sent men to 836405 and set up a listening post but the results were negligible. The bn. received 1 sgt and 29 privates as replacements. The weather is still clear but somewhat cooler. Cas: 2 mal., 2 abs sk, 1 neurotic, 9 WIA, 1 KIA. Oct 9th - Artillery is still falling in our area and a few Jerry planes are over our position today. Co L is stabilizing its new position. 4 men of Co L were killed today due to a misfire of a Jerrie mortar they were firing. The weather is still clear and sunny. Cas: 4 KIA, 2 mal. 1 abs sk. Oct l0th - The bn. less Co L moved forward today to start the attack on Aachen. We moved out at 1245 hrs in the following order: Co I, K, M, and Hq Co. We reached our assembly point in Ellendorf at 1630 hrs and went into the attack. The companies reached their objective at 1830 hrs after encountering considerable mortar and small arms fire. Approximately 40 prisoners were taken. Regt. Anti-tank platoon, the atch'd engrs and our anti tank platoon spent the night carrying water and rations to our companies because our vehicles could not cross the swampy ground enroute. The weather was cloudy and rainy. Cas: 10 WIA. Oct llth - This morning we received heavy mortar and some artillery firs. Our dive bombers and artillery have shelled until a heavy haze practically covers the town. Routine patrols probe the territory in front of their positions at dusk. Prisoners were still being brought in a total of 105 today. It cleared in the early part of the day but was cloudy and light showers during the night. Cas: 12 WIA, 1 Concussion. Oct 12th - We moved out at 1000 hrs. Co K led the attack to the factory district followed by the Command Group, Co's I M and Hq Co. Resistance was quite stiff especially from mortars and machine guns. The CP did not move forward until 1500 hrs when the line companies had reached their objective. Total prisoners taken were 125. We setup our CP at 858445.(Map of Aachen 1/25,000) in a factory building. Today has been another warm sunny day but it is cloudy and unsettled tonight. Casualties were 11 WIA, 1 KIA, 2 abs sk, and 9 MIA. L Co joined the bn. at 2200 hrs. Oct 13th - The bn. moved out in the attack at 1000 hrs with Co I on the right, Co K on the left and Co L in support. Both companies met stiff resistance from snipers and machine gun fire. Co K encountered one 75mm anti-tank gun. At 1500 hrs Co L was committed on the south of Julicha street, they met heavy small arms fire. We were unable to accomplish our mission which was to take observatory hill. We put out security for the night with orders to continue the attack at 0630 hrs in the morning. Fighting is from house to house and casualties for the enemy were very heavy. The CP for the night was located in a house at 854442, The weather is clear and cool. Cas: 4 KIA, 15 abs sk. 14 WIA, 1 malaria, and 1 neurosis. Oct 14th - At 0630 hrs this morning the bn. resumed their attack toward observatory hill. Sgt. Dobel of Co K who was acting platoon leader showed conspicuous gallantry by leading his company through the attack area. In this section Sgt, Dobel was wounded in the arm and his runner was killed. Two of the tanks atch'd to Co K were knocked out by Jerry bazooka guns. The crew of the third tank, which was following these 2 was forced to leave their tank however. Sgt. Wise and Pvt. Brown of Co K succeeded in reaching the tank and manning the machine gun. They then drove the tank back to a better position though neither had ever driven a tank before. Lt Baldwin was wounded today and evacuated by the Jerries to one of their hosp. This hosp. was captured by 2nd Bn. and it was discovered that the wound had caused the Lt's death. Co L captured one Jerry company intact. It consisted of 27 EM 3 NCO's and one officer. Our CP is now set up at 847437 and observatory hill is taken except for a small section on the left flank. The weather is still clear and cool. Today and yesterday we have taken a total of 265 prisoners. Cas: 4 abs sk, 1 malaria, 25 WIA, 6 KIA. Oct 15th - At 1030 hrs this morning Co L received a push from the enemy on their left flank. Our outpost was pushed back by enemy tank and infantry however they were not able to break the lines. At 1530 hrs we received a general attack on all fronts by an estimated Inf. bn. and 6 tanks. By 1630 hrs we had the attack stopped and had inflicted a great many casualties and knocked out one enemy tank. Lt. Vanderstop was wounded in this action. Sgt. Tomasco, acting platoon leader, of Co L and Sgt. Wise were particularly outstanding in this show displaying brilliant qualities of leadership. PFC Short of Co K single handedly held off a strong push against his company. Prisoners for the day were 5. The weather was rainy, and cloudy. Cas: 26 WIA, 2 KIA, 6 abs sk, and 4 neurotic. Oct 16th - The bn has been under heavy mortar fire today. Several probing attacks were made on tower hill by the enemy, however, they were not very strong and the enemy did not manage to break our line. Captain Chaplin of L Co was killed by a mortar burst and Lt. Shepard assumed command of the company. Most of the day has been spent reorganizing our companies, and consolidating our positions. The weather was still somewhat rainy and generally cloudy. Total prisoners for the day were 6. Cas: 6 KIA, 39 WIA, 15 Combat Fatigue, 9 abs sk. Oct 17th - The enemy has not been very active today, however, he has kept close contact at our outpost. At 1600 hrs the observation tower we were using was knocked down by a shell from a self-propelled gun. Heavy mortar fire fell in our area all day. At 1000 hrs Gen Rose and Lt Col Hogan of the 3rd Armored Div. visited the CP. Also Col. Seitz. At 1500 hrs Gen Huebner and Col Seitz visited the Bn. Prisoners for the day were 11. The weather was still rainy toward evening. Cas: 2 KIA, 10 WIA, 6 abs sk, 7 Combat Fatigue, and 2 self-inflicted wounds. Oct 18th - At 0630 hrs Co K and I began attacking with Co L in reserve. The attack was supported by a self-propelled 155 mm gun. This was used to fire direct fire down Rolan St. on Kurhaus and Palace Hotel. The attack moved rapidly until 1050 hrs. and by then both companies had reached their objectives. The Palace proved to be a large food store house and the Hq's of 243rd Inf. Div. Two SS Lt's were captured in this push. Total prisoners captured 135. The weather is still rainy and cool. Cas: 2 KIA, 19 WIA, 1 NP, 1 abs sk. Oct 19th - Co L led the attack this morning pushing forward at 0630 hrs to take Salvatore hill. At 0800 hrs Co I pushed down Ludwig Alley. The attack was supported by a 155 mm rifle and moved rapidly until 1100 hrs. By 1500 hrs the 2 companies had taken their objective. The enemy threw considerable mortar and tank fire. At 1500 hrs the CP displaced forward to 840441. From 2200 to 2300 hrs the enemy threw an artillery barrage into town from outside our encirclement. Gen. Rose of the 3rd Armored visited the CP at 0800 hrs today. Total prisoners: 52. Cas: 17 WIA, 2 KIA, 7 abs sk, 2 malaria. Oct 20th - At 0730 hrs this morning Co's K and L began the attack. The attack moved slowly due to heavy mortar fire and also direct fire from enemy tank which was firing down Ludwig Alley. At 1200 hrs Co I was committed to speed the taking of our objective for the day. The TD unit succeeded in driving off the enemy tank. Gen Huebner visited our CP today. Total prisoners: 53. The weather was still cool with occasional showers. Cas: 5 malaria, 2 abs sk, 2 KIA, 32 WIA, 1 SIW. Oct 21st - Co's I, K, and L began the attack at 0730 hrs. At 1100 hrs Co. I reported a group of 300 Jerries coming down the road. It had been reported to Capt. Botts by two American Engineers, who had been captured by the Germans, that the German Commander, Col. Wilcks, wanted to surrender. The group of Jerries surrendered and Capt. Botts proceeded to the bunker in which the Jerries had his headquarters for all German forces in Aachen and returned to our CP with Col. Wilcks and his staff. Col Corley demanded an unconditional surrender and at 1000 hrs the formal surrender was signed. Col Wilcks brought all of his troops that were to contact with him and Lt Reynolds with the German Staff Off. went out and brought in 175 soldiers with whom Col Wilcks had no communications. Before leaving our CP, Col Wilcks was permitted to address his troops. This was completed and the final phase of the battle for Aachen. At 1600 hrs the battalion moved to the outer edge of Aachen and set up the CP at 855405. Hot chow was served for the 1st time in 10 days. Throughout the Aachen drive Capt. Botts has shown his ability as a courageous leader in quickly taking the objectives that were assigned to him and his company. Total prisoners: 1391. The weather was clear and cool. Cas: 2 malaria, 3 abs sk, 11 WIA, 3 KIA. RECAPTURED AMERICAN SOLDIERS by the 3rd Bn. The following is a list men captured by the enemy and recaptured by the 3rd Bn. on 21 Oct.1944, Aachen. Co I 119th 30th Div Phillips, H. W. T/Sgt 20361457 Henderson, R. P. Sgt. 352496657 Bray, W. V. Pvt. 37635144 Howard, B. L. " 36763154 James, L. T. " 36958908 Wood, D. R. " 35249335 Schroeder, W. " 42091378 Macielak, W. A. " 35098291 RECAPTURED AMERICAN SOLDIERS by the 3rd Bn. continued Lovell, J.W. Pvt. 38692057 Kaminske, J. F. " 31456826 Kelly, H. L. " 33848372 Osburg, M. O. " 36834028 Peterson, A. E. " 35919332 Shipley, Marvin L. 1st Lt. 01291021 238th B. Co. Eng. Haswell, Boswell J. B. Sgt. 6289448 Padgett, E. M. S/Sgt 34538197 Hq. Co. 3rd Bn. 119th Inf. ??lucki, C. J. PFC 32747158 Lang, W. J. " 33301994 Mucciante, M. M. " 35515575 I Co 26th Inf. 1st Division Gilbert, S. Sgt. 12080908 Panik, P. R. PFC 20514327 Kintol, M. K. " 34851948 Schreiber, G. F. " 35593485 Trzaska, J. S. Pvt 32093567 Krieber, L. " 12060538 K Co 2nd Bn., 26th Inf. Drendlaw, R. Pvt 37588487 Hoyt, C. Q. " 36903222 Anti-Tank Co. 26th Inf. Krimmil, W. C. PFC 12123628 DIGEST OF COL. WILCK'S SPEECH TO THE GERMAN SOLDIERS Dear German Soldiers: I am speaking to you at a painful moment. I was forced to surrender because we ran out of ammunition, food and water. I saw that the further fight was worthless. I was acting against my orders, I was supposed to fight to the last man. At this time I have to remind you, that you are German soldiers, and please, behave as such. I also wish you the best of health, and a fast return to your Fatherland after the ceasing of hostilities and to help rebuild Germany. I was refused by the American authorities to give a "Seig Heil" and "Heil Hitler", but we can still do it in our minds. Oct. 22nd - The day has been spent in cleaning the German Barracks we moved into yesterday. It is quite near us but we are still able to hear the large gun of units fighting outside of Aachen. The weather was nice today - clear and sunny. Cas: were 3 abs sk, 2 malaria. Oct 23rd - Today we setup a portable shower and the men are cleaning up generally. We have the opportunity to see a movie in our area today. At 1700 hrs we had rifle inspection. Lt. Condon of 7th Corps visited our CP today. Cas: 1 abs sk, 1 Off. and 7 EM were permitted to visit Paris for 3 days. Oct 24th - At 1230 hrs today our bn. moved a short distance to another group of German barracks (coordinates 871412 map of Aachen). Several men from each company were allowed passes to division rest area and a few from each company given passes to Paris. The afternoon was spent cleaning the barracks and making them livable. The weather was warm and sunny. Casualties were 3 abs sk and 2 malaria. Oct 25th - The men have spent the day doing routine camp duties. At 1630 hrs we had rifle inspection. The weather was clear and sunny. Cas: 4 abs sk and 2 malaria. Oct 26th - Most of the day has been devoted to routine camp duties. We were given the opportunity to see a movie in camp today. More men were allowed 36 hour passes to the division rest camp. The weather was still nice except for light rain in the evening. Cas: 6 abs sk. Oct 27th - We are still following routine camp procedure. The weather is clear and cool. Cas: 6 abs sk. Oct 28th - The men are still enjoying passes to the rest camp and a few to Liege. We had a rifle inspection this morning and a few camp details to carry on our regular routine. Cas: 4 abs sk. Oct 29th - At approximately noon time today our bn. began relieving 2nd Bn. of 26th Inf., who were on line in the vicinity of Verlautenheide, (855454 map of Aachen). The 81 and 60 mm mortar pltns. effected their relief at 0900 hrs. The rifle companies and heavy machine guns of Co M infiltrated to their new positions beginning at 1700 hrs. The relief was effected without serious incident of casualties to either bn. We set up our CP at 845453. The weather is still cool but rather hazy. Cas: 2 abs sk and 1 off. abs sk. Oct. 30th - We have now taken over 2nd Bn. positions and are receiving considerable mortar and artillery shells in our area. Co I sent a patrol to 893452 at 1730 hrs to investigate the woods and main road. They did not encounter any enemy activity so returned through B***(K?) Co. The weather is cool and hazy. Cas: 1 abs sk. Oct 31st - Co I sent another patrol to 893452 again at 1600 hrs this morning. They went through I Co outpost and SE along the main road. No information was gained so at 1715 hrs this patrol was made again by Co I. This patrol reported 5 Germans at 893452 and heard the voices of several others. They returned without drawing fire. Mortar and artillery continue to shell our position. Some direct fire from enemy tanks fell near the CP. Cas: 3 abs sk. Nov 1 - At 0600 hrs this morning the 3rd pltn. of Co I attacked a group it houses at 891452. After taking 3 of these houses they were stopped by heavy mortar and machine fire. They consolidated their position and remained for the balance of the day. At 1600 hrs the pltn. re-attacked the same group of houses but were halted by machine gun fire coming from slits out in the cellars of houses. Our AP pltn. went into position with their flame thrower which failed to function causing the whole attack to be stalemated. During the night the enemy and the men of I Co continued to exchange bazooka fire and hand and rifle grenades at a distance of approximately 30 yds from basements of houses. From 2200 to 2400 hrs the bn, received heavy fire from 150 mm long range artillery. Cas: 1 KIA, 8 WIA, 2 abs sk. Nov 2 - The attack continued this morning with Co I trying to advance at 0400 hrs. On the right of the road of the 3rd pltn. gained one house but were driven out of one on the left side of the road. The enemy then drove our men out of the house they had gained with small arms fire, grenades and bazooka fire. Our enveloping force moving to the right was stopped by heavy machine gun and rifle fire. We then received orders to hold our present position rather than try to enlarge it. The quinx area was outposted with 2 squads of men. Very light mortar fire was received during the fight. Cas: 9 abs sk, 1 WIA. Nov 3rd - Co I began firing their mortars at dawn this morning. All day our bn. area received fire from 120mm mortars and 150 mm artillery. At 1630 hrs the TD's with Co. L fired 30 rds. at pill boxes in front of their positions. This firing was followed by an artillery and mortar barrage from the enemy during which Lt Eagan of Co L was killed by mortar fire. The loss of Lt Eagan who made Oran invasion with us, felt very keenly throughout the bn. The night was quiet except for a few Jerry planes overhead. Cas: 1 KIA, 5 WIA, 3 malaria and 5 abs sk. Nov 4 - An enemy patrol tried to cross in front of Co L's pltn this morning but was driven back by our small arms fire. It has been a quiet day except for very little artillery and mortar fire. Cas: 3 abs sk. Nov 5th - Patrols went out from each company today in front of their positions to get a prisoner. Those from Co's K and L contacted the enemy in a small arms skirmish and the patrol Co has one man missing. A small amount of mortar and artillery fire fell over our position today. Cas: 11 abs sk, 2 WIA. Nov 6th - Today has been a relatively quiet day in position. Some direct fire from 88's and a small amount of fire from 150 mm fell in the bn. area. At 2200 hrs we were notified of a possible move tomorrow. Cas: 11 abs sk, 2 WIA. Nov 7th - At 0800 hrs the AP pltn. left the rear CP for our new position area. At 1410 hrs the first units of the bn were relieved by the 3rd bn. 18th Inf. and by 2400 hrs the bn. had completed its move to the barracks that we formerly occupied south of Aachen, a distance of 5 miles. We bedded down for the night expecting to move out again in the early morning. Cas: were none. Nov 8th - At 0845 hrs our billeting detail moved out followed by our line companies at 0930 hrs. The order of march was Co's L, I, K, M, and Hq's. We detrucked at the town of Gurefall and marched to our new area (98003835 map of Stolberg). the move was completed by 1230 hrs. The distance traveled was approximately 8½ miles. Cas: 6 abs sk. Nov 9th - Today we spent in the usual camp routine. The men have dug foxholes and covered them, camouflaged our vehicles, and constructed a CP and aid Station. The weather has been damp and cold for the last few days and we now have a thin covering of snow over the ground. Cas: 10 abs sk, 3 off. abs sk and 1 WIA. Nov 10th - Men of the Bn attended mass and Protestant services during the morning. The weather is still rainy and our area is very muddy. Usual camp routine has been followed during the balance of the day. Cas: 5 abs sk, 1 WIA. Nov 11th - We have been doing usual camp duties today. In the afternoon we set up showers and the men cleaned up. The weather is still cold and rainy. Col. Seitz visited the CP in the afternoon. Cas: 3 malaria and 3 abs sk. Nov 12th - The Bn. has followed camp schedule today. The weather is still cold and rainy and it is very muddy underfoot. Bn. received 53 replacements today. Cas: 1 SIW, 1 malaria, and 10 abs sk. Nov 13th - The men spent the day building walks of logs also shelter. Usual camp duties for the bn. Bn received 3 more replacements. A light snow fell today and it is still cloudy. Cas: 1 abs sk, 1 mal. Nov 14th - We are still doing routine details around the camp. At 1530 hrs we had a foot inspection. The weather is still cloudy and rainy. Cas: 9 abs sk. Nov 15th - This has been another day of routine camp details. Col. Seitz and Gen Taylor visited the CP in the middle of the of the afternoon. At 1500 hrs we had a rifle inspection. The weather has cleared somewhat but it is still very muddy. Cas: 5 abs sk and 1 malaria. Nov 16th - At 1115 hrs today American and British Bombers along with fighter bombers and escort planes bombed enemy territory north and NE of our positions. This mission was supposed to be carried out by a group of 2000 planes. It is the beginning of the Allied drive to Cologne and the Rhine. H hr was set at 1245 hrs and at that time our 2nd bn. pushed forward toward their objective #1 which is brushland in the vicinity of Schonthal, Ger. We are moving in a column of bn. and our bn is in regimental reserve. We are now on a 45 minute alert to be prepared to assist in 2nd bn. if necessary or pass through them to objective #3. Our mission as a division in this attack is to the east is to seize the crossing of the Ruhr river north of Duren. Our 16th Inf. is on our right with the 18th in reserve. We spent the afternoon preparing to move. The weather is clear and it is beginning to dry a little. Cas: 6 abs sk and 1 malaria. Nov 17th - The bn. moved forward at 1045 hrs and arrived on checkpoint 1(031422) at 1200 hrs, distance covered 4000 yds. Rear command group arrived at 994395 at 100 hrs. All units were dug in and camouflaged by 1600 hrs. Later hot chow was served. Weather clear and cool. Cas: 1 WIA, 3 abs sk, and 1 SIW. Nov 18th - The bn. is alerted for the attack at 1045 hrs. The order of march, thru LD, is K Co left flank, L Co on right flank, and I Co covering road, Command Group and M Co. Resistance encountered thru checkpoints, 32(026433) was light from small arms, but mortar and artillery fire was heavy. The roads were well covered by enemy making it almost impossible to keep telephone with forward CP. At one time 32 breaks were repaired in the line by one wire crew. All messages were transmitted by radio. The rear CP moved up to checkpoint 1(013422) at 1230 hrs, upon arrival it was severely shelled by enemy artillery, casualties incurred. Lt Hoh had to move his Medical Aid Station to Schevenhutte (007416) because it was convenient locality. 3 M29 vehicles were assigned to this bn. for transportation on the present muddy roads. Cas: 1 malaria, 1 WIA, abs sk 3, SIW 1. Nov 19th - The attack was continued at 1300 hrs thru LD (026433) Laufenberg Castle at 1630 hrs. The swamp buggies had a 2 fold mission, on trips to forward CP they transported ammunition water, and C rations; on the return journey they evacuated wounded to rear medical stations. This operation was carried on under heavy enemy artillery and large caliber mortar fire, zeroed in on the road. Cas: 26 WIA, 10 abs sk, 10 NP. Altogether there were 82 evacuations. Weather continued rain and cold. Lt Yelverton, K, Lt Ratchford, K, Lt Key, M, Lt Chancey, I, Lt Cook, L, Lt Phillips, M; the forenamed officers were casualties. Nov 20th - The bn. moved forward continuing the attack at 1400 hrs from (028439). Artillery and mortar fire was heavy as the troops made their drive. At 1700 hrs they accomplished the objective on checkpoint 61 (031445) a distance of 800 yds. Enemy artillery fell in and around both forward and rear CP's. Cas: 20 WIA, 12 abs sk, 8 NP. Weather continued rain. Lt Buck wounded but not evacuated. Nov 21st - All companies made slight gains to improve their position by dispersing pltns, security the main object in shifting about. Cas: KIA 1, WIA 14, abs sk 12, NP 8. Weather: rainy. Nov 22nd - All companies improved their positions. The CP was built up in a creek bed and logs were fell across the bed. This provided ample protection from shells bursting close to CP. K Co sent a patrol out to contact the enemy. The patrol received small arms fire. There were 77 replacements and 4 officers assigned to the Bn today. The following is the break down to each company: Hq 1, I 20, K 23, L 20, and M 13; Officers Lt Meyers, K, Lt Elsen I, Lt Mosias K, Lt Leslie I. All replacements kept in field train until needed. Present position heavily shelled. Cas: WIA 52, KIA 3, Lt Meyer WIA Lt Goodrich and Lt Chafin KIA as of the 21st of Nov. Rear CP move to Schevenhutte (607416) on the main route for the bn. Forward CP heavily shelled the next morning at 0415 hrs. Capt. Botts assumed command of K Co. Nov 23rd - At 0945 hrs the bn. made another attack from (031445) and at 1030 hrs reached point 400 yds North of checkpoint 59(028453). They were still in the attack and by 1600 hrs another message transmitted to rear CP stated, "On objective" which was ridge thru BM 264 overlooking the Cologne Plain. There were 35 replacements assigned to the following companies, I 35, K, 15, Cas: WIA 24, abs sk 5, NP 8. A word in passing that today was Thanksgiving Day a great national holiday at home. Turkeys were supplied to kitchens but were not served. Later when situation permits we shall have a good feast. Nov 24th - The bn. is in a defensive position and fortifications are being strengthened. An artillery OP which overlooks the enemies position from an excellent vantage point spotted enemy artillery batteries. Upon completion of fire mission, the results were 4 batteries put out of action. Observation of enemy positions is excellent. The weather permitted the Air Force to dive bomb and strafe enemy positions in our sector. In order to improve telephone communications a 12 drop switchboard was transported this morning to forward CP. The supply sergeants issued each man a pair of new socks and the dirty socks were returned to be washed by the QM Laundry. This afternoon Sgts Mosely and Nestor returned from Danger Base after taking final physical examination for battlefield promotions to the rank of 2nd Lt. Col Seitz visited the bn. Commander to discuss future operations. The blue 2 jeep returned after being repaired by ordnance. A new motor was installed which makes the 2nd ¼ ton vehicle within a week sent to ordnance for a new motor. Interdictory artillery fell upon the bn. The telephone line to forward CP was in contact for the most part today. Blue 1 has been at the regt CP also at the field train allocation replacements, the data which follows: I 20, E 24,.Hq 8, M 1, also 8 officers were assigned; Capt. Fielder F. Fair K, 1st Lt. Eugene M. Alder L, 1st Lt Edward R Costello K, 2nd Lt William R Johnson I, 2nd Lt Jack W. Lewis K, and Lt Gray transferred from I to K. Cas: WIA 8, abs sk 12, KIA 2. Lt Mortimer I and Lt. Costello K. Weather cool and clear today, 5 prisoners were captured. Nov 26th - The bn. remains in defensive position, and strengthening of fortifications has been continued because of the increase in enemy mortar and artillery fire. There has been an increase of small arms fire from the left flank of the fire break and a pltn. of 1st Recon. has been employed to cope with the situation. Decoy White and 1st Bn. of the 26th have tied in with our left and right flanks respectively, making them more secure. An M 29 swamp buggy, and medical ¼ ton vehicle were ambushed near the entrance of the firebreak. Reports are not clear as to the results of the ambush. In the afternoon the P-47's dive bombed and strafed enemy positions on the plains in front of the bn. sector. Replacements were assigned to the following Co's I 16, K 15, L 15, Lt Ruby from abs sk to duty K Co. The forward aid station was hit by artillery and 2 casualties reported. Cas: 14 WIA, 1 NP, 12 abs sk, 1 SIW, Pvt Robert F Hargett, prisoner taken: 1 off, and 3 EM. Nov 27th - Bn continued its present position (defensive) for the earlier part of the day. Section of enemy mortars laying a harassing barrage in and around CP was located by observer of Cannon Company. After completing fire mission enemy mortar fire ceased. A small amount of enemy artillery fell in and around our CP today. At 1500 hrs. the bn. out for an attack on Junglesdorf, the LD 037456. Order of move L Co encountered small arms and followed by enemy artillery fire. As L closed in on objective at 051468 at 1730 covering a distance of 1500 yds. Forward elements of L & I Co consolidated on objective resisted counterattack 0400 hrs. Lt Zollwag WIA, Capt Botts assumed command of I Co. Capt Fair although wounded carried on. Cas: 11 abs sk, 2 NP, 25 WIA, and 1 SIW - Pvt Lawrence P. Reese. Weather clear and cold. Nov 28th - The bn. set another strong defensive position last night, and at 0930 hrs K Co in position on the ridge overlooking Junglesdorf repulsed an attack. They drove up as Love Co the OP and in line the combat that followed 2 TD's knockout. Later in the morning the regt'l anti-tank pltn. attch'd to our bn. knockout a Mark IV tank at 1200 yds. By noon the small arms and close-in fighting quieted, however the enemy shelled heavily the town of Junglesdorf. At approximately 2000 hrs, K Co. reported the enemy tossing hand grenades at position. At the same time the enemy movement was reported on the main road about 400 yards in front of our positions, and left flank. A fire mission was brought to bear on the front while mortars covered the flanks. Cas: 12 WIA, 2 abs sk, 1 SIW S/Sgt Denmark. Replacements as follows K-1, and 2 casuals to Hq Co. Weather cold and clear. Nov 29th - The bn in its present defensive position strengthened and improved its front and flanks. The morning a 12 man outpost from L Co returned after being cut off for 24 hrs. Enemy mortar and artillery fire continue to fall on our positions today. The enemy was observed moving NE away f rom Duren. The bn. fired their mortars and called for artillery support as the weather gave clear visibility and numerous targets were spotted. The turkeys could no longer be stored so the kitchen prepared sandwiches and made hot coffee for the evening meal. There were replacements for K Co from 1st bn. and 2 casuals assigned. One off. assigned to I Capt. Claude R. Croft. Cas: 6 WIA, 10 abs sk. Prisoners: 4, 1 wounded. Weather clear & cool Nov 30th - The enemy probed the right flank position of K company at 1000 hrs. Mortar fire was brought down upon them and repulsed their attack. At mid-day an OP observed enemy foot troops marching in and vehicles bringing in fresh troops to support and hold present position. All of this enemy activity was taken under artillery fire while mortars engaged closer in targets. At 1630 hrs another enemy patrol engaged or contact with the right flank of K Co. The 4.2 mortars and artillery under took fire mission making this patrol withdraw from the flank. A patrol from K Co went out to investigate enemy activity by locating fresh partially dug fox holes. Enemy mortar and artillery fire fell on bn. position all day, this was an increase over previous days. Relief of bn was delayed due to enemy artillery fire. Decoy Red 18th Inf. lst Bn. began relieving us at 2100 hrs and at 0200 hrs, Dec lst the entire bn was relieved. Thunderbolts were bombing and strafing enemy positions to our front. One of our planes in its strafing run came too close to I Co position and one casualty was reported. Weather clear and cool. Cas: 9 WIA, 2 KIA, 6 ab sk, 2 NP, and 1 SIW-Pvt. Balchen. One replacement assigned to K Co transferred from Can. Co. Dec 1st - Our bn. was relieved by Red Bn. of the 18th at 0200 hrs. Bn. withdrew back in the area in which they were initially before attacking Junglesdorf. At 1115 hrs the bn. had another mission of cleaning the woods to the east of our position from (042461) down to (046454). The bn. scattered resistance. Enemy artillery and mortar fire was not as heavy as in previous days. Cas: 3 ab sk, 5 WIA, 1 SIW. Dec 2nd - The rear CP moved up to join in with the forward CP at 1000 hrs and at 1200 hrs the entire transmission was completed. L Co relieved G Co of the 26th after pushing forward to the edge of the woods. The bn. is now to an assembly area to reorganize and equip the troops. The position is one, located in the woods. Hot chow was served to all companies less L Co, because of present status. Weather cloudy, rain, & cool. Cas: 10 ab sk, 4 WIA, Capt Faid hosp. CO of K Co. Dec 3rd - Bn. underwent reorganization within companies. Supply sergeants were at the companies to equip and supply troops with a change of socks and underwear. These dirty clothes were sent to the QM laundry to be washed. V mail forms and Xmas Cards were issued to the personnel. A few rds. of enemy mortar and artillery fell in our position. Cas: 5 WIA, 11 ab sk, Lt. Buck hosp. battle injury. Dec 4th - The bn. is in its assembly area reorganizing the companies. Sgt. Vangsness, 1st Sgt of Hq Co transferred to Co L and the present major has taken over the vacancy in addition to his other duties. Co L was alerted to move out and relieve Co G of the 26th at 1300 hrs. Later in the day Lt Korach, Blue 2 and the intelligence section were alerted to move on a secret mission at 1700 hrs. German aircraft were over today, this makes the second day successively that they have been over. Cas: ab sk 10, Weather clear & windy. Dec. 5th - Our bn. was alerted to move and relieved by Red Bn. of the 39th Inf. At 1100 hrs K Co the 1st company to be relieved, evacuated their positions completely at this hr. At 1700 hrs. the bn. was entirely relieved. The personnel marched to an entrucking point 4 miles to the rear of our position. At this point trucks convoyed companies to ½ miles east of Aubel, Belgium a distance of 25 miles (680354) sheet #70. Upon arrival guides spotted the companies in their proper areas. Hot coffee and sandwiches were served to troops after they were billeted. The field train moved to our present area Aubel, Belgium. earlier in the day and able to set up before troops arrived. Weather clear and cold. Cas: NONE. Dec 6th - Today much administration work was carried on within the bn. Buildings and sheltered were provided for troops sleeping outdoors, in order to keep them dry and warm. Showers were located and a schedule was set up for the companies. Col Seitz visited the CP this afternoon and the Bn. Commander guided him to positions of companies. Co. Commanders meeting was held at 1230 hrs. to discuss bn. SOP and 30 day furloughs to USA for EM and Off. Two men per company were submitted to regt. and these men were alerted to their company areas. At 2200 hrs the list of names were returned to those to return home on furlough. They were listed as follows: Captain Billings, T/Sgt Williams M Co. S/Sgt St. Hilliare L Co., PFC Duda L Co., PFC Wood I Co, T/Sgt Halko Hq Co and T/Sgt Dobol L Co. Weather: cold and rainy. Cas: Abs sk 1. Dec 7th - The bn speeded up its efforts to carry out past administration and bring it up to date. Further shower facilities were added where a soldier could obtain a clean uniform after a refreshing shower. A group of men departed for the rest camp at Verviers, a VII corps rest camp, where they will receive clean clothes, clean web equipment, have their weapons checked by ordnance, and whatever incidental can be accommodated. At 1225 hrs Maj Carney, and S/Sgt Nagy Co M were alerted to go on 30 day furlough to USA. The Bn Commander delivered a farewell speech to those men going on furlough before they departed on their journey to USA. These particular men will be carried on DS in the morning report. At 1800 hrs Maj Rainey, the former Bn Surgeon visited the CP with Col Corley. The Col then retired from the CP with the Maj. The men of the CP industriously worked clearing administration. Lt. Korach became S-1, and Lt Ablenado S-2 within the bn. Cas: 2 ab sk, Weather rainy and cool. Dec 8th - This morning troops were shuttled to and from showers via Service Co trucks attch'd to 3rd Bn. and by 1230 hrs the troops had clean appearances. Another roster was drawn up for men going on pass to Verviers, 12 men per company plus Lt Vanderstolp and Lt Unzicker. A roster was made for men to go on pass to Paris. Five men per co. plus the following officers, Capt. Nachey, Lt. Korach, and Lt. Moh. Later in the morning officers paid by an officer from Cn Co. The entire bn. transportation was washed by at the regt'l wash racks upon completing this operation, they were wiped down with oil and greased. Wire and radio equipment were checked and minor repairs were made. Cas: ab sk 4. 10 casuals returned to their companies from hosp. 2 of which were from a replacement depot. Weather rain and cold. Dec 9th - Today the bn. enlisted men were paid for the month of Nov. Lt Elsen was agent Off. The monies which the men desired to send home by PTA was collected. Then each co. PTA Off. then over to Lt. Legow Bn PTA Off. There was an officers reception at Circle Catholique 1600-1700 hrs. where color streamers were presented to Guide On of each company for Africa, Sicily, and France. The Div C.O. Gen Huebner went down the ranks congratulating each man for his leadership. Later in the evening a dance was held and invitations were extended to each officer. Cas: ab sk 4, Weather snow. Dec 10th - The Sunday schedule was followed throughout the bn. Church services were held at Aubel by both Father Byrne and Chaplain Chase. The plans and training officer, Capt. Botts and Col Corley discussed and drew up a training program for the following week, based on the schedule set up at Regt. A CO meeting was held to consider the above program. The men departed for Paris today, 5 men per company and Capt Nachey, Lt Korach, and Lt Vanderstolp. Another trip promoted to Verviers, 12 men per company plus 2 officers. Cas: 2 abs sk. Weather rain. Dec 11th - A formation was held to present the Bn. Commander with 2 awards, one of which was earned by the excellent record of the bn. The Col. told the men that he was very proud to be wearing their medal, along with those he earned himself. In the speech he made he expressed the desire for the men to do their job and do it well. Gen Huebner made the presentation and a short speech. The companies retired from the formation after which they began their training schedule. Cas: 8 ab sk, 2 malaria. Weather, intermittent rain. Dec 12th - The normal training schedule was carried out, schools of various types were held. This afternoon 30 men and 1 off. were awarded the bronze star by Col Seitz for meritorious service. A roster was submitted to the CP for a rest at Verviers. The men are being educated in the particular drills and use of weapons, both as a defensive and offensive weapons. Weather cold and rain. Cas: 3 ab sk. Dec 13th - The normal training schedule was carried out according to specific plans and specialist schools were conducted. An NCO school was also conducted by Capt Botts, under the guidance of Col Corley. 1st Sgts are bringing records up to date working on sick records as the factor which lagged. Files of the CP are being checked, records destroyed which are no longer required and new files started. Weather: Clear & Cold. Casualties for today were: 7 absent sick. Dec 14th - The 1st Sgt had a meeting this morning at Regt where specific instructions were given to the men MR's and Sick Book Reports. Newspaper articles were also submitted to the CP. These items were summaries of a mans past experiences in the Division. The items were submitted to the Regt where they will be published to newspapers of a man's hometown. The training program was carried out according to the specified program for the day. Cas: 9 ab sk Weather: cold. Dec 15th - Today men were presented with awards by the Regt'l C.O. Lt. Ablenado reading the General Order and the Col making the presentation. The normal training program carried out. The Communications pltn leader conducted a school on communications in the various workings of the communications in the bn. The CP group had completed the filing of records as the bn C.O. checked the files. A dental inspection was conducted by the dental surgeon of the Regt. A night problem was carried out this evening by the letter companies. Cas: 1 ab sk. Weather: Cold and rain. Dec 16th - The normal training continued today following out the training notes. Men were permitted to go to Liege on pass this afternoon for the week-end, returning Sunday at 2100 hrs. At 2100 hrs.,we were notified that we were on one hr. alert. Preparations were immediately made to move out. Cas: 2 ab sk. Weather clear and cold. Dec 17th - At 0130 hrs we were alerted to move and billeting parties were instructed to meet at the CP. Billeting party consisted of one officer and competent NCO per company; shortly after the billeting party arrived at CP they were notified to depart for Regt. with S-2 Lt Ablenado in command. Trans. arrived very near 0200 hrs, and by 0230 the men were on trucks, ready to roll. Convoy moved out at the appointed hr with Lt Col Corley in command of first MO and Capt Nachey in command of 2nd MO. The bn arrived at Camp Elsenborn at 0200 hrs a distance of 33 miles. Enroute enemy airplanes dropped flares and paratroopers, while considerable anti-aircraft fire opened on them. The convoy halted for a few minutes and all lights were turned off. From this point the vehicles moved forward without lights. Upon arriving at the assembly area men were billeted. At 1330 hrs the bn moved out on trucks for approximately 3 miles and at this point detrucked, marching about 1 mile securing Butgenbach at 1500 hrs, establishing a CP at this town. Later moving out securing a position NW of Bullingen. Cas: 2 ab sk, Weather light rain-cold wind. Dec 18th - The bn moved forward at 1000 hrs for a distance of a few 100 yds north of Bullingen. There was sporadic small arms fire and artillery fire. The enemy was observed to be evacuating the town. The CP split up into two groups including the Col plus communications pltn, and two squads of the AP pltn. The anti-tank pltn checked in this afternoon at 1400 hrs. Cas: 2 WIA, 1 SIW, 4 ab sk. Dec 19th - Bn in defensive position with K Co on our right, I Co on our left, L Co in front and M Co in position to support all companies. I Co extended its position around hill 503 and held a commanding observance of the town. K Co also extended its position a few yds. Upon settling position, security procedures were maintained. Enemy mortars & artillery fire plus 30mm rocket fell in around our positions. This afternoon enemy aircraft were over our position. During the day numerous Buzz bombs were sent over. The motor pool arrived at rear CP where maintenance can be given to vehicles. In the evening a group of four drivers sent up to I Co position to recover some trucks sent evacuated by another outfit. After a check they determined only one vehicle capable of being driven under its own power. As the men drove off with the truck it bogged down in the mud. Fuel tablets were sent to the companies along with water and rations at 1600 hrs. Cas: 4 WIA, 2 ab sk. Dec 20th - Bn is set in a defensive position with all the necessary security measures. An L Co patrol went forward today to contact elements of the 2nd Division and met them at a point of the Hari River. This same patrol went across Warch River and Holzmarche River on the outskirts of Wirtzfeld. At this town they tried to draw fire from the enemy by yelling down the street but drew no fire and discovered that Jerry was not at this point. Occasional mortar and artillery fire fell upon the bn position. Cas: 7 WIA, 2 malaria, and 2 KIA. Dec 21st - Bn. is in its defensive position with no minor changes in its primary defenses. No patrols were sent forth today. There were no large scale penetrations by the enemy in the bn. sector. However, there was heavy enemy shelling within the bn. The forward and rear CP were heavily shelled also. Rations, water and ammo, were issued from the rear CP. Cas: 7 WIA, 10 Ab sk, Lt Jones, M Co ab sk. Weather light snow and frost. Dec 22nd - Both L and I Co's maintained present position but K Co position was hit by force at of enemy and tanks combined from the right flank. In the skirmish the AT pltn knocked out Mark V with a bazooka shell or grenade. The position with K Co held, was disorganized for a while, but later in the afternoon they reorganized and returned to reestablish a defensive position near primary position. M Co fired at numerous targets. There casualties were mostly from K Co and AT pltn. Cas: 9 WIA, 3 KIA, Lt Mosley and Capt Baddelay were wounded. Capt Botts assumed command of K Co. Weather snow and cold. 1 Prisoner captured. Dec 23rd - Bn. defensive position changed somewhat, K Co shifting from right flank position to a reserve position behind I & L Co's. The right flank position was taken by B Co of the 18th Inf. L Co front was fairly quiet while I Co position was shelled moderately with artillery. The observer with I Co spotted many enemy targets and called for fire by 81mm mortars. Two Mark V tanks were put out of action by 81mm light mortar ammo. Three bombs landed within 100 yds of rear CP demolishing two unidentified ¼ ton vehicles. The situation was fairly quiet on the whole. No attacks were launched against the bn. Cas: 1 WIA, and 4 ab sk. Weather cold and clear. Dec 24th - Usual improvement of defensive positions. Mines starting to be laid. Trip flares and A&P mines laid in area to left of I Co. Quiet all day along the front. Listening patrol out from Co I. Dec 25th - Clear bright day with about 2 inches of snow on the ground. It is just the kind of Xmas day you would want to spend at home. Perfect weather. Air Corps is out in strength. Hay is distributed to men for their holes. Rather quiet all day along the bn. front. Capt. Shealy joins the Bn, takes command of Co K. Dec 26th - More mines laid in front of I Co. The gap between I & L Co's also covered with mines. Usual listening patrol out from I Co found Jerry 1200 yds to their front starting to dig in. A recheck on the morning of the 27 reveals abandoned equipment and no Jerries dug in. Patrol from L Co heard a horse drawn vehicle on the left flank. Mine laying again tonight. Dec 27th - Increase in mortar and artillery fire. It is believed a new unit has moved into our front. Bn. starts to dig in a second defensive line. A complete mine belt is started across the bn. front. A house near the Bn CP is set up for a squad per Co. to spend 24 hrs. at. Has lights, a radio, hot water, books, etc. Dec 28th - Listening patrol from I report all quiet in town at 2200 hrs 12/27/44. Heinie preceded by an intense artillery shoot comes into the left flank of L at 0530. Drives in the outpost, 1 EM MIA, 1 KIA, and 10 WIA. Visibility poor all day until 1500 hrs. Jerries fire all day has been very erratic. L Co attacks to reach its outpost line at 1700 hrs. At 1720 Mike 6 called Blue 2 and stated that all lines forward were out. 1750 Love 6 called Blue 6 saying, meeting heavy resistance to our immediate front. Fire defensive fire #1 #2 #3. 1805 Capt. Botts left the Blue forward CP to visit M Co and L Co sector, and for Mike 6 to fire defensive fires A&B. Blue 6 at 1820 asked L Co for an old Soldier. Love 6 answered Blue 6 that some progress was made but would report later. Report of this was given to Dextrous 6 at 1830. Also at 1830 Mike Co was to continue firing DF at short intervals. We heard that at 1832 friendly airplanes roaring over us, they were in large numbers. By 1900 Blue 2 received good news from Blue 6 that friendly units of our on our left have 2 pltns on hill 577 and that another pltn of this unit would move in position tonight. Also news that Blue 6 at 1900 gave Blue 3 a report that one pltn of K Co was to report to Love 6 and be in support of L Co. Blue 3 reported to Blue 6 that L Co. started to push south for their positions and met a combat patrol of 30 to 40 Germans at position 939039. A pltn of L Co pushing down south of RR met 50 to 60 Jerries on the right. Blue 6 reported to Dextrous that at 944-037 this platoon had encountered Jerries and that everything was under control. 1901 a new defensive fire at 946036 #8. L Co outpost south of RR post, helmets, sniper rifles, and other Jerry equipment was found in L Co old OP position (information of equipment was forwarded to Dextrous 6). At 2115 Blue 6 gave Blue 3 this information, that when L Co had sent a combat patrol to try and regain its outpost line they found that the Jerry was attacking. The patrol withdrew and L Co then attacked the Jerry and regained its outpost line. This information was sent to Dextrous S-2. Dextrous 6 called Blue 3 at 2110 and asked what the situation was; also asked, did we get any identification. Blue 3 gave him the situation and told Dextrous 6 that billfolds and soldiers books would get in as soon as possible in the morning. Item 6 reported at 2320 that his listening posts reported absolutely no sound from 1945 to 2300 hrs. Also that Item Co had laid all their wire communications. 2400 Blue 3 gave Dex l a report that all was quiet and also the information that their listening post did not hear any sounds of Jerry movements. Prisoners taken 2. Cas: 18 WIA, Lt Culligan SIW 1 K Co; ab sk 6, KIA 2 NP 3. Dec 29th - The bn. sector was fairly quiet with few artillery shells landing at intervals around the bn. sector. From 0015 to 0550 nothing was heard of any movement of Jerry around the bn. sector. At 0550 Item 6 reported to Blue 6 that there was a lot of vehicle movement in the Town of Bullingen which I's positions overlooked. This movement was picked up by I Co's listening post. Blue 6 reported this movement to Dex 5. Dex. 5 told Blue to forget it until White Bn patrol came back, which went out at 0015 and still was not reported in to its Bn. Dex. 5 also told Blue 6 that TOT (time on target) be recommended. Later at 0630 Item listening post returned and revealed that there not as much activity as indicated over the radio. Reported 2 and some men carrying articles. At 1145 Item Co patrol which 0500 30th Dec was going toward the town of Bullingen , had the mission of capturing a prisoner in the vicinity of the RR station in Bullingen. Report came from Dex. 3 to Blue 2 that at 1905 L Co patrol which was to contact the unit on its left, walked over a mine field of 15 AP mines. The unit on its left was going to lay more mines. At 2221 LN3 reported to Blue that sound and flash had picked up enemy guns which were firing from the vicinity of 949029. Lt. Cody from LN3 alerted 3 Charlie and 3 Cannon to observe fire and warn if it was too close to be fired at. Finally reported at 2300 came from Blue 3 to Dex. Duty Officer. All was quiet in the Bn. sector. Cas: WIA 2, ab sk 4, KIA 1. Dec 30th - The morning at 0001 started with enemy shells coming near our Bn. area and seeming to be more to our rear. At 0015 there was heavy shelling in our CP forward area and in the town of Butgenbach. Dex. line from Blue was out. From 0350 to 0515 it was very quiet with the bn. sector. I Co's patrol and MG outpost that they heard 8 or 10 Jerries with a machine gun making a lot of noise in a house at the following coordinate 948021. At 1000 hrs a recon of Bn sector was made by Co C of the 2nd Bn. of the 23rd Inf. 2nd Division, and recon was finished at 1200 hrs. Companies followed at this range I - F, K - G, L - E, M - H; that is the way the companies went to their positions. At 1445 Item asked for a litter Jeep. Blue 6 gave Capt. Riter an answer on Booby traps and wire. At 1430 Engr and the AP pltn laid AP mines in L Co area and wanted to complete the mine field of L Co & I Co areas. We had a friendly visit from Gen Taylor at 1630. They went down to visit the Blue Bn rest Camp. At 2330 hrs Blue 6 told Love 6 that the AP mine field was completed of 24 rolls of barb wire and 24 wire rolls. Relief of I Co slow, started at 2030; artillery and mortar falling. I and L Co were notified. Cas: WIA 2, ab sk 4, KIA 1. Dec 31st - 0035 started the bn. morning. The bn. had ordered 36 anti-tank personnel mines. Some to be laid in the daylight and the rest to be laid after dark. This work was coordinated by the Bn S-3, Capt. Botts. The Engr Off. reported that the mine field had been completed and that one mine field was shortened from 750 to 600 mines. The 150 mines were used in the main field. At 0130 hrs Blue 3 called King 6 and said the change would start at 2030 because King 6 and Item 6 thought change would be more quiet at that time. Blue 3 told King 6 to report when he was completely closed in his new area. At 0355 King 6 called LM 3 that King Co had completed its change and checked his positions. There was no activity and all was in order. this report was reported to Dex. 2, Capt. Laffley. From 0410 to 0700 all was quiet. At 1000 hrs. Blue 2 called Love 6 that combat patrol is to go from Love Co area to the vicinity of 949-023. At 0500 was for him tomorrow. Also at 1500 at 1630, 1 pltn reinforced with machine guns is going to clean woods in vicinity of 928-011. If they succeed they are to a point of 933-010. Time of 1730 the 3rd pltn of L Co saw a pilot drop at north of Bullingen, was from the 83rd. A report to all companies came from the blue forward CP the next door neighbors were going to give a shoot on Hitler's New Years Eve Speech. Also to be especially watchful tomorrow. Then the final report came in that all was quiet at 2400 hrs and the New Years came in. This ends the last day of 1944. Cas: 2 KIA, 3 ab sk and 1 NP. Jan 1st, 1945 - The morning started with a Happy New Year exchange. Starting from Dex. to the Bn and from the Bn to white Bn rear and forward. It seems to be very quiet from 0001 to 0800 at night. At 0805, K Co. listening patrol reported two shots came from their left flank (front) in the direction of town Bullingen. At 1000 L Co patrol went to a house to man a machine gun while 4 Jerries stayed in the house. The patrol killed one Jerry and departed without losing any of their men. At 1300 hrs Capt Laffley S-2 of Dex. called Blue 3 to give him the following information, that 20 to 25 tanks were reported in the vicinity of Grid Square (94-02). Notifying L K M. K Co is sending a recon patrol toward 945021. L Co reports a Jerry coming down the RR tracks and was shot by their outpost. Patrol of K Co proceeded to 944026. The information from Dex. 6 to Blue 2 was at 1500 that at 955-038, 30 tanks dispersed at about location which was in the vicinity of Grid Square(94-02). King 6 reported to Blue 3 at 1550 that his patrol searched the house, stayed 15 mins. returned and heard nothing. K Co got a harassing fire laid on their area after 5 white flares in the vicinity of 947025. The day closed with all quiet after that firing of artillery by Jerry in K Co area. Cas: 5 ab sk. Jan 2nd - Today the bn. sector was quiet from 0001 to 0500 hrs when Co L called Blue 10 to find out if there was a patrol out from the unit on our left. They saw a patrol with white uniforms coming to the right of the unit on our left. Dex.verified that they had a patrol the unit on left that was at 0520. From 0520 to 1245 a report came in that a tank was in the vicinity of 946038. At 1315 Blue got a call from S-2 and in return K-6 was notified that his patrol would go to 950020 and would have to leave at 1800 hrs. King 6 reported to Blue 2 at 1805 hrs. that his patrol heard a machine gun at 949022 and a few snipers. This closed the activity of Blue Bn. for the day. Cas: 8 Morale: good. Jan 3rd - The bn. is in a defensive position. A patrol reconnoitering our front located a Jerry CP, identified as the 8th Co CP located in the town of Bullingen. The Bn sector was quite all day. Cas: ab sk 13. Weather cold and snow. Morale -- high. Jan 4th - The bn is in a defensive position. There were a few prisoners captured. The position was quiet except of late in the evening when a few shells landed near the forward CP. No casualties or damage reported. Cas: ab sk 5. Weather cold and snow. Morale high. Jan 5th - The bn is in a defensive position. There were a few prisoners captured today and the information which they gave upon questioning revealed the location of a Regt'l and a Bn CP. The OP's report that there was some enemy movements in front of their positions. Cas: ab sk 5. Weather cold and snow. Morale -- fair. Jan 6th - This morning before dawn L Co sent out a security patrol to the front. Upon their return, they reported no enemy activity in front. Later during the evening L Co sent out another patrol to within 100 yds of RR tk. A Jerry was captured at K Co's outpost. Cas: ab sk 8. Weather cold and snow. Morale fair. Jan 7th - The bn is in a defensive position. The bn front was very quiet today. The usual security patrols were sent out but didn't make any contact. Capt Moutrop rejoined the bn and became Blue 1. Lt Korach became Blue 2. and Lt Ablenado went to 1st Bn as Bn S-4. Lt. Picker went back to Ser Co. Lt Reedle rejoined the Bn and went to K Co as weapons pltn leader. The sky was cloudy and weather continued cold. Cas: ab sk 9. Morale good. Jan 8th - The bn is in a defensive position. L Co's patrol of a reinforced squad was fired on near the RR Sta. by enemy machine guns to rifle firing. They completed mission of investigating the bridge and found it to be of light construction. K Co sent out a recon patrol of 1 officer and 2 enlisted men which went to their objective and without contacting the enemy. Otherwise the front was quiet except for an occasional shell falling in the bn. area. Major Dulligan returned from the hospital and assumed his duties as Bn S-5. The rifle companies continued to improve their defenses with concertina and used more logs and hay in making dugouts. It started snowing last night and continued all day. Casualties ab sk 5 WIA - 1. Morale Fair. Weather snow. Jan 9 - The bn is in a defensive position. About 0930 hours K Co. OP spotted approximately 10 Jerries firing on 2nd Bn patrol which was returning and directed 81 and 60mm mortar fire on them causing some casualties. The 2nd Bn patrol lost 1 Officer (Lt Duncan) 1 sgt and 1 pvt. The rest of the day was quiet. The snowing stopped during the day but the sky remained overcast. The snow is approximately 14 inches deep on an average. About 24 buzz bombs passed over the Bn area today. Our men seem to be taking care of their feet because there has been very few cases of Trench Feet lately. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Cloudy and Cold Morale high Jan 10 - The bn remained in the defensive position. Today an enemy tank dropped some shells on K Co. (AP-2,HE-6) and a few more around town but were ineffective. The Bn sent out an advance detail today (Capt Moultrop & 5 NCO's) to Verviers to pick out billets but returned late in the afternoon, because the relief was indefinitely postponed. There were scattered clouds today with a bright sun. Some of our men used burnt cork on their faces to absorb the effect of the glare of the sun on the snow. A patrol from I Co. led by Lt Leshy (reinforced squad with bazooka and a 536 radio) went out from I Co position at 1800 hours. The 536 was lost when the patrol was fired upon by enemy small arms. I Co sent up 2 flares during the night to check the front. The men going home on vacation (Lt Col Corley, S/Sgt Osborne, Pvt Riley, S/Sgt J.M. Arboreen and T/4 Looney) departed today from Herve. Col Corley was awarded a OLC to his Bronze Star just before he left. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Cold and Clear Morale High Jan 11 --The bn is in the defensive position. A reinforced squad from I Co. led by Lt Leshy went out to destroy a small house which proved to be stone. They did what damage they could and returned. Departure time 2330 hours. The front was fairly quiet today except for a few shells. After the relief was postponed, new efforts are being made to improve positions, more concertina wire in front of positions, logs and hay for the foxholes. The rest camp is still providing a change for 48 men each day. They get an opportunity to get cleaned up, write letters, etc. Every day Capt Burns the Bn Surgeon inspects the feet of all men who are at the rest camp. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Cold and Clear Morale High Jan 12 - The bn is in the defensive position. At 0130 hours this morning, 2 men from K Co. were wounded by a Jerry hand grenade thrown by a man in a Jerry patrol. The Jerry patrol (12 men) came up to the right outpost of I Co. but were driven off by fire from the outpost. K-6 sent out a patrol to cut off the Jerries but they didn't observe any Jerries go down when they fired on them. At 0730 hours, Sgt Johnson K Co. mess sgt reported that he had been fired at when returning from K Co position. At 1250 hours the patrol left outpost of I Co. reported seeing approximately 20 men and an armored vehicle in front of their position. The officers were paid today. Tonight one of the buzz bombs landed very close and broke one of the windows in the rear CP. Casualties Abs sk-3 WIA-3 Weather Cold and clear Morale High Jan 13 - The bn is in the defensive position. The front was fairly quiet today except for 8 to 10 rounds that landed in L Co's position. I Co. sent out a listening post of 1 sgt and 3 men to go to a vantage position at 2100 hours with a compass to record location of any noises heard. This listening post got almost to its destination when it was fired upon at a point. L Co. sent out a recon patrol of Lt Wommack, 1 sgt and 2 men to check house at another position at 2100 hours. The patrol didn't find anything at the house but located Jerry listening post near RR station, also reported large fire in Wirtzfeld with some explosions. Today all rifle Co's received more logs for dugouts. Tonight Lt Buck took 60 rolls of concertina to K Co. and 3 A&P men helped to lay it. I Co. changed positions with K Co. tonight. Lt Nestor paid K & L Cos. today. Casualties Abs sk- 4 WIA-4 SIW-l Weather Cold Morale High Jan 14 - The bn is in the defensive position. L Co's security patrol reported all quiet this morning. I Co sent out a listen-post of 1 sgt and 3 men to locate noises to the front, but heard Jerries 200 yards short of this point. They also reported a flare went up on their left east of the railroad. Lt Lyons paid Hq Co I and M today. Lt Johnson picked up what PTA's there were for the bn. Church services were held. It was bright clear cold day until late this afternoon when it clouded over again. Casualties Abs sk - 4 WIA - 1 Morale Good Jan 15 The bn is in a defensive position. L Co sent out a combat patrol consisting of a reinforced squad with 1 officer which went to the vicinity of the RR station and received fire from rifles to machine guns. Estimated that there were many enemy around the buildings and on the outside. This contact was made at 0130 hours. K Co sent out a listening post of 1 sgt and 3 men to a vantage point, but the NCO became ill and returned. He reported that nothing was heard but saw a house on fire. The other regts of the Div were assaulting but we didn't receive any extra enemy fire. Buzzbombs were fairly active today. Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather cold Morale good Jan 16 - The bn is in a defensive position. At 0815 hours there was a tank firing from the left front of I Co position. L Co security patrol reported this morning there was no activity to their front. At 1134 the left outpost of I Co. got a Jerry deserter from 5th. Co 1055 Regt. At 1210 the 3rd platoon of I Co. reported shelling from an S.P. or a tank a distance of 1000 yards from Co. area. K Co sent out a listening post of 1 sgt and 3 men to the crossroads to the front of their position and heard noises and coughing in a house nearby. Lt Buck was out helping with wire tonight. Our planes came over today and bombed ahead of our position. Casualties Abs sk-4 Weather cloudy with snow Morale good Jan 17 - The bn is in a defensive position. I Co. captured a Jerry medic from 1055 Regt at 0850 hours today. L Co security patrol reported no activity. At 1500 hours a buzz bomb fell near the forward switchboard but didn't go off. There were two others that landed in the reservoir but did not detonate. Altogether 22 buzz bombs were counted passing over the rear CP. The arty fired a bn concentration into the towns of Bullingen and Muninger at 1015 hours, which resulted in 10 hits with HE and 1 smoke on a strongpoint. L Co patrol of 1 sgt and 9 men led by Lt Abele went to reconnoiter the area forward and spotted 6 Jerries. They called for arty on this position. I Co sent a listening post to a vantage point consisting of 1 sgt and 3 men. Two officers and 4 EM went to Paris on pass. Our arty laid down a heavy concentration of fire on enemy positions in the evening. Casualties Abs sk-1 WIA-2 Weather cloudy Morale Good. Jan 18 - The bn is in the defensive position. I Co. dawn patrol reported a few trucks along the railroad. L Co security patrol reported all quiet. At 1440 hours 18 shells landed in K Co's platoon that is with I Co. I Co. sent out a combat patrol of 12 EM and 1 officer to a point forward and reported no activity at that point, but heard some talking near RR tracks. They observed 2 red flares and 3 arty shells land on the RR tracks. I Co. 2nd platoon also reported red flare in front of their position and heard MG fire (2010 hours). The men in the rest camp went to the 1st QM for showers. Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather snow morale good.. Jan 19 - The bn is in the defensive position. I Co's listening post reported all quiet. K Co sent out a combat patrol of 7 EM led by Lt Streeter to reconnoiter the area forward of I Co. The patrol arrived in town and was challenged. Lt Streeter raised his rifle and the enemy ducked. The EM tried to cut the enemy off but returned without firing and the patrol got back without casualties. The chow jeeps were laden down with food and could not make their way through the snow-drifts, and in this case the "Doodlebugs" proved invaluable in bringing chow forward. 12 reinforcements were sent to M Co. Casualties Abs sk-4 Weather snow Morale good Jan 20 - The bn is in the defensive position. It was very quiet in the bn sector. The additional snow slowed down traffic considerably. Officers from the 9th Inf Div and 2nd Inf Div were around our position in anticipation of relieving the bn. One officer and 20 EM went to the rest camp at Herve. Casualties Abs sk - 2 Weather cloudy and cold Morale good Jan 21 - The bn is in the defensive position. Capt Moultrop and 5 men from the Intel section and Sgt Ferguson with wire jeep went to Nidrum with Capt Kelly at 0930 hours to pick out billets for the bn. The bn was relieved by the 1st Bn 9th Inf 2nd Div starting at 1500 hours. K Co was relieved at approx. 1800 hours and marched by platoons to Nidrum, occupying buildings. L Co was relieved at approximately 1945 hours. M Co went by organic trucks to dugouts in woods near Elsenborn camp. I Co was relieved and spent the night at the RR station in Butgenbach. Hot chow was served as companies arrived in new area. Casualties Abs sk - 3 Weather snow Morale high Jan 22 - The bn is in an assembly area. I Co moved by truck at 0900 hours to dugout area next to M Co near Camp Elsenborn. Hq Co minus rear CP moved to Nidrum at 1500 hours. Casualties-0 Weather Fair and cold Morale High Jan 23 - Today there was a bn combat group comdr's meeting at the Bn CP at 1300 hours at which time the attack order for the morning of the 24th was given by Lt Col Murdoch and staff. The bn had use of the 18th Inf showers for half a day, and men were shuttled to shower point. Co funds were called in and audited by Maj Dulligan. Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather cold Morale High Jan 24 - The bn moved on trucks from Nidrum to Butgenbach in order I, M, L, K, and Hq arriving at 1015 hours and remained in assembly area until 1130 hours when L Co attacked followed by K Co. and CP group. L Co attained its objective without any trouble and took 14 prisoners. K Co continued on to the right (southern part) of Bn objective taking 4 prisoners against light resistance. I and M Co's were called forward at 1430 hours and closed on Bn objective at 1630 hours. Hot chow for supper. 4 men from bn to Paris today. There were 12 reinforcements at field train. Casualties WIA-7 Weather Fair Morale excellent Jan 25 - Patrols were sent out from K and L Co's. L Co patrol of 1 sgt and 3 men failed to return. Heavy shelling in bn sector during the morning but only slight shelling the remainder of the day. Co's consolidating positions. The bn was issued new winter boots. The breakdown on replacements was 8 to M Co, 3 to L Co. 1 to Hq Co. Two hot meals were served. Casualties WIA-2 MIA-3 Weather cloudy and cold Morale good. Jan 26 - The bn is in a defensive position. The bn sector was quiet except for occasional arty and mortar fire. At approx. 1030 hours Capt Botts S-3 was killed and the operation Sgt Sgt Luce, was wounded by a tree burst while in K Co area inspecting positions. A PW taken by the bn told about an American patrol that had been ambushed by 3 German squads. He said that 3 of the patrol had been killed and 1 taken prisoner which was believed to be a sgt. This was probably L Co's patrol. 13 reinforcements joined the bn. L Co- 8 K Co- 5 Casualties Abs sk-5, WIA-3 KIA-1 Weather snow Morale good Jan 27 - The bn sector was quiet except for occasional arty and mortar fire. At approx. 1030 hrs Capt Stevens joined the Bn. (trfd fr 1st Bn D Co) and assumed the duties of S-3. The forward CP moved into some German dugouts approx. 700 yds from their former position. A new road was opened to the forward CP. 16 reinforcements joined the Bn. Hq Co-6, K Co-5, L Co -5. Casualties Abs sk-14 Weather snow Morale good. Jan 28 - Enemy dropped a few shells in the bn area today. Co comdrs meeting at 1430 hours for issuing of attack orders by Lt Col Murdoch. Col Seitz visited the forward CP. Most of the bn has received snow suits. M/Sgt Marshall joined the bn and took over the operations Sgt's job. Capt Fair and Lt Ratchford returned to the bn from the hospital and remained at the rear CP. Nearly 6 inches more snow today. Casualties Abs sk-3 WIA-1 Morale Good Jan 29 - The bn attacked this morning. IP parachute corner at 0100 hours order of march K, L, Hq, M, I jumped off from LD at 0200 hours. K Co on the right at A Co's outpost I Co on the left. I & K converged on the town of Bullingen from the SW. K Co ran into MG to rifle fire and was slowed down so L Co passed thru between I & K to flank the town from the north side. It was a bright cold moonlight night. The day was cloudy and fairly quiet as the Cos. got adjusted in town. Casualties-59 WIA, KIA-9, MIA-1 Lt McGreevey KIA, and Lt Lyons WIA. Morale Fair Prisoner-212. Jan 30 - The bn reorganized and rested an much as possible. The tactical situation has eased because 2nd Bn passed thru in attack on Murringen. Only a few shells fell in the area. In the afternoon Col Seitz visited the forward CP and outlined the attack for tomorrow. Casualties WIA-4 Weather Cloudy and cold Morale Good Jan 31 - At 0900 hours the bn was alerted to move out on a one hours notice. The bn moved on foot at 1100 hours and marched approx. 6 miles thru Murringen passing thru 2nd and 1st Bn's into the attack on objective which was crossroads on ridge. Only light resistance was met and 2 German tanks. Shortly after dark two German tanks loaded with troops came down the road into L Co area loaded with troops. The tank hit a mine at the roadblock that was set out by A&P platoon. A TD borrowed from 1st Bn which was approx. 50 yds away opened fire knocking out a Hornet tank. This fire from the TD killed a Lt Col who commanded the 1056th Regt and approx. 20 Germans with him, blowing bits of them into the trees. Reinforcements to I Co-8, Hq Co-5. No hot chow but C rations. Casualties WIA-5 Abs sk-3 KIA-1 Weather Rain Morale Good. Feb 1 - The Bn has been getting dug in today. There has been very little enemy activity, the 2nd Bn passing thru during the morning. The rear CP moved up to Murringen at 1430 hours. Casualties Abs sk-9 Weather Rain Morale Good Feb 2 - The Cos changed positions slightly. I & K Cos moved to the left of the Bn sector in order to tie in with the 2nd Bn. K Co being next to the 2nd Bn. Our bombers were over today. Hot chow twice. Casualties Abs sk-5 Weather Fair Morale excellent Feb 3 - Very quiet in bn sector, the 1st bn having passed thru so that our position has been partially screened. During the night 2 or 3 enemy planes dropped a bomb and strafed down the road behind the rear CP. Maj Du1ligan was notified that he was going to 1st Bn as CO. Capt Ritter went to Regt CP (sick). Reinforcements L-15, I-12. Casualties Abs sk-10 Weather Rain Morale Excellent. Feb 4 - At 0500 hours 1st platoon K Co led by Lt Streeter occupied 3 pill boxes and 1 gun pit in the outer Siegfried Line defenses in front of the 1st Bn, 1000 yards west of Holerath and took 6 prisoners. Later Lt Streeter led a reinforced squad and went into town at approx. 1100 hours, and entered the town at no losses to his squad. At approx. 1030 hrs the Bn was placed on a 2 hour alert. At 1245 hours 10 jeeps and trailers under Lt Johnson transp. officer started to shuttle K Co forward and move into Holerath a distance of 3 & ½ miles. The jeeps took the troops to the first row of dragon teeth and the troops walked the remaining mile into town. No opposition was encountered and K Co found only 6 Germans in town. The rest of the Bn shuttled up closing in town at approx. 1645 hours. Maj Dulligan departed for 1st Bn and Capt Moutrop assumed duties of S-5 in addition to S-1. Hot chow was served twice. Casualties Abs sk-4 SIW-1 Weather Snow to rain Morale Good. Feb 5 - All is quiet in the Bn sector today. Capt Moutrop went out with a billeting detail at 1100 hours to Butgenbach. The Bn was relieved by 2nd Bn 295th Inf 99th Div starting at 1500 hours. Order of relief was K, I, L, and M Cos moving into assembly area in the woods just west of the dragon teeth on outskirts of town and awaited transportation. All atchd units reverted to Co control. The bn was shuttled to Butgenbach approx. 13 & ½ miles closing at 2330 hours. Relieving comdr assumed responsibility for the sector at 2300 hours. Hot chow was served as Co's arrived in new area. Casualties Abs sk-5 BI-1 Weather Foggy Morale High Feb 6 - The day was spent in getting comfortable in the new area. Church services were held. Gen Taylor visited the CP In the afternoon. All unit markings were removed from clothes and vehicles preparatory to moving. Lt Buck left at 1000 hours to go on a billeting detail taking 1 NCO per Co. and several men from A & P platoon in a half track. Co comdrs meeting at 2000 hours for the moving order. Three officers and 25 men went to Herve at the rest camp. The men from the Bn went to Spa for showers. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather cloudy and warm Morale Excellent. Feb 7 - The Bn prepared to move this morning and moved out by truck at 1415 hours, the IP time. The Bn crossed the Regtl IP Oberweywerts at 1430 hours and the order of march Hq, I, K, L, and M Cos. Rained most of the trip. The bn closed at 1715 hours in Ferrieres a distance of 38 miles. Casualties Abs sk-2 SIW-1 Weather Fair Morale Good Feb 8 - The day was spent in getting squared away. All day trucks shuttled men to Spa for showers. The officers and men were paid today. Lt W. Johnson and Lt Buchanan were the paying officers. Lt Byerley was the Bn PTA officer. Co clerks came to the Cos to help with the paying. Church services were held. 20 reinforcements and 6 casuals joined the Bn. Lt Buck left at 0830 on a billeting detail. Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather Intermittent showers Morale Good Feb 9 - The bn moved out this morning on trucks order of march HQ, I, K, L, and M, Cos. The bn IP time 0930 hours in Ferrieres. Travelled approx. 78 miles and closed in new area in pine woods approx. 1 mile south of Grossra at 1500 hours minus Hq Co. Hq Co closed at 1730 hours due to the condition of the road (mud). Area just vacated by l8th Mech Cav Recon Group. Day was cloudy near freezing with scattered showers and sleet. One truck carrying M Co men broke down, and 6 jeeps out of action due to heavy going caused by muddy roads. Weather Rain Casualties -0 Morale High Feb 10 - Today was spent in getting settled in new area. The troops were living under tents and dugouts. No enemy shells have fallen in the area altho some could be heard landing nearby. The roads are barely passable due to mud and doodlebugs are coming in handy. Casualties Abs sk-6 Weather Clear and cold Morale Excellent Feb 11 - The bn has been resting, getting cleaned up an much as possible and improving living quarters. Church services were held. Weather snow Casualties Abs sk-5 Morale Good Feb 12 - The men were improving living quarters today as a result of heavy rain last night. The Bn had a detail of two platoons daily cutting logs to use on the road. Training schedule has started, with weapons training and squad problems. One off. & 25 EM went to Herve. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Rain Morale Excellent Feb 13 - Companies have started zeroing weapons with special attention to instructing the new men. Usual routine duties. Log cutting detail out again today. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Feb 14 - Training program progressing, instruction firing of weapons including bazookas. Platoon problems being included by companies in this program. Church services held. Two officers and 20 EM went to Herve. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Rain Morale Excellent Feb 15 - Training schedule followed during the day. Usual routine duties with particular attention to getting paper work cleaned up. Three officers and 15 EM went to Herve rest camp, Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather Cloudy Morale good Feb 16 - Col Seitz presented 54 Bronze Stars and 25 Purple Hearts to Officers and EM of the Bn, at a formation held in the woods at 1100 hours. Training going on and 2 platoon detail still working on the road. Four officers and 15 EM went to Herve Rest camp, Feb 17 - The Div Comdr Gen Andrus presented Silver Stars, a Soldier's Medal and Bronze Stars to officers and men of the regt in the Bn area this morning. T/4 Abele, M Co, left for furlough in UK. One officer and 10 men went to Herve rest camp. Casualties Abs sk-5 Weather Good Morale Excellent. Feb 18 - The bn had use of the 1st QM showers today and approx. 120 men from the Bn were able to get cleaned up. Church services held today. We used a large hospital tent for movies and two shows. Feb 19 - All the Reichmarks that were paid to the bn were collected and taken to finance by Lt Buck for exchange. Training schedule continued. Two officers and 10 EM went to Herve rest camp. Casualties Abs sk-5 Weather Fair Morale excellent. Feb 20 - Another 50 men from the Bn went for showers today. Coca Cola (2 per man) and PX rations were distributed to the Bn. Lt. Buck and 1 man per co went on pass to Paris. One officer and 5 men went to Herve rest camp. Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather Rain Morale Good Fob 21 - Lt Col Murdoch, Capt Stevens and Lt Cody LN-3 went in arty plane on air reconnaissance of area for next operation. Another 50 men went for showers. The bn had beer today. A light tank M 24 was in the area for general inspection and recognition of new type. T/Sgt Walsh from L Co departed for OCS Infantry school. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Cloudy Morale Good Feb 22 - There were a few enemy planes over the Bn area. One man from M Co was wounded by a fragment from 40mm anti aircraft shell that landed in the area. Lt. Col Murdoch and Co comdrs inspected Bn vehicles today. Sgt Timosko L Co went on furlough to UK. Two officers and 12 men went on Herve trip. Casualties Abs sk - 7 Weather Cloudy Morale Excellent Feb 23 - Co comdr's meeting at 1030 hours this morning to receive general plan for next operation which will be the crossing of the Roer River. From the Bn 200 men went to showers. There has been a general preparation for the next operation. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Fob 24 - Col Seitz presented Bronze stars and Purple Hearts to Officers and men of the Bn and Cannon and Hq Co in the Bn area at 1030 hours this morning. Mass was held at 1100 hours by Chaplain Burns and Prot services were held at 1400 hours by Chaplain Chase. Movies were shown at 1000, 1300 and 1800 hours today. Co comdrs meeting at 1600 hours at which time Lt Col Murdoch issued attack orders for tomorrow but it was changed by Regtl S-3 as he finished. Forward switchboard was put in at Winden 6 miles away in anticipation of the operation of crossing the Roer. Casualties Abs sk-4 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Feb 25 - Capt Stevens received the plan of attack from Regt at 0900 hours and went to select assembly area for the bn. Lt Col Murdoch went to Regt in the afternoon to get final order and bn was alerted at 1400 hours. Co Comdrs meeting at 1500 hours and Bn moved out by truck at 1600 hours order L. I, K, M, and Hq. Travelled approximately 5 & ½ miles to Berzbuir. Detrucked there and marched approx. 2 miles to assembly area in Niederau across the Roer. The Bn CP moved to Winden (6 miles) closing at 1845 hours. Hot chow was served in the assembly area. Co comdr's meeting at 2200 hours Lt Col Murdoch issuing the attack order for the morning. Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather Overcast Morale Excellent Feb 26 - The bn left the assembly area on foot at 0400 hours passing thru Kreuzan, L Co going to Drove and jumping off in attack towards Bn objective Boich at 0630 hours. I Co jumped off in attack from Kreuzan at 0500 hours and moved into Udingen knocking out several pill boxes. K Co passed thru I Co at 0700 hours in the attack towards Boich to take the southern sector. By 1000 hours the town of Boich was secured and G Co passed thru in an attack on the next town, Rathe. An enemy counterattack aimed at the 16th Inf hit the rear of L Co's column as they were leaving Drove at 0630 hours. It was successfully repulsed by L Co after a heavy fight. The bridge in the bn sector was completed for traffic in the early evening. Hot chow was served for supper. The bn captured 164 prisoners. Casualties WIA-21 Abs sk-1 Weather-cloudy Morale Good Feb 27 - L and K Cos with attachments (M Co's MG Plat and TD's) and 1 platoon of I Co holding Boich. The Bn CP and I Co remained in Udingen today. The sector was quiet except for occasional enemy shelling in the morning. The bn is now in div reserve. Hot chow 3 times today. Capt Schuler joined the bn and was assigned to L Co and assumed the duties of Exec off. Five men went to Brussels on pass. Casualties WIA-3 Abs sk-3 Weather Cloudy Morale Good Feb 28 - The bn remained in present position today. Lt Col Murdoch and Co comdrs was on a reconnaissance for new positions in anticipation of relieving 2nd Bn 16th Inf in the afternoon, but it was called off and another assembly area selected for the Bn. The bn as alerted and then put off the alert at approx. 2000 hours. Hot chow 3 times. Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather Cloudy Morale Good Mar 1 - Capt Stevens took billeting party to assembly area at 0800 hours. The bn moved out on foot starting at 0830 hours going to Kreuzen 1 & ½ miles to entruck (jeeps, tanks and TD's). L Co followed at 0900 hours and K Co at 1000 hours. Moved approx. 7 miles on vehicles and closed in assembly area town of Kelz at 1220 hours. Co comdrs meeting at 1445 to receive plan of attack on next Bn objective Lechnich. Lt Col Murdoch issued the attack order at co comdrs meeting at 2300 hours. Lt Mosias returned to Bn. Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 2 - One reinforced platoon from K Co and part of the forward CP led by Lt Col Murdoch left by jeep at 0230 hours and went to ERG. K, I, M and CP moved by jeep at 0230 hours and went to Erg along with atchd tanks and TD's arriving at 0425 hours. At Erp. L Co followed by vehicle at 0600 hours. The town had not been completely cleared of enemy by the 1st Bn so the bn holed up in buildings in town for the day. At 1130 hours atchd TD's (634) went into position to support and 1 squad patrol from K Co. This patrol went to a point approx. 500 yds short of the bn objective when it was fired on. Contact by radio was lost so patrol returned (1700) with information secured. At 1230 hours there was a Co comdr's meeting for the general plan of attack for the evening. At 1530 hours the Bn CP moved to the far edge of town of Erp near the LD. Co comdrs meeting at 1700 hours for details of attack issued by Lt Col Murdoch. Col Seitz visited the Bn CP after the meeting. I Co with platoon of tanks and M Co MG platoon atchd attacked down the right of the main road towards Lechenich and K Co. with M Co MG plat atchd went down the left side of the road. Co's crossed LD at 1900 hours. Only light resistance was met and the town was secured by 2400 hours. L Co In reserve moved thru town between I and K Co's to secure jump off points east of town for the 2nd Bn which passed thru at 0500 hours. Hot Chow at supper. Casualties WIA-2 Abs sk-2 Weather Fair Morale Good KIA-2 Mar 3 - During the early morning hours the companies consolidated their position in and around town. During the day civilians began to come out of dugouts and cellars in spite of occasional shelling from large caliber enemy arty. K Co sent out hourly patrols to contact the 18th Inf to the north. The kitchens moved up to the companies and hot chow was served 3 times. Casualties WIA-2 Abe sk-3 KIA-1 4 men on furlough to USA Weather fair Morale Fair Mar 4 - All quiet in the bn sector today. Companies still in same positions. Co comdrs meeting at 1300 hours at which time Lt Col Murdoch issued the general plan for the next operation, the attacking of Walberberg. It was expected that the bn would move at the close of daylight but at 2200 hours word was received that it wouldn't be until morning. All of the bn is in buildings and there are plenty of civilians around. Hot chow 3 times. Capt Ritter went to hospital. Casualties 0 Weather Showers Morale excellent Mar 5 - The bn went on a 3 hour alert at 0600 hours. A Co comdrs meeting was held at 0900 hours to issue attack order by Lt Col Murdoch. The bn in order Hq, I, K, M, and L Cos moved by 2 & ½ ton trucks travelled 2 & ½ miles. At 1207 hours K and I Cos abreast crossed the LD (railroad) east of Bliesheim attacking thru the woods toward Bn objective (Walberberg). The Cos reached the phase line for final assault at 1700 hours. I and K cos jumped off at 1930 hours and secured the town of Walberberg against light opposition. L Co pushed thru then towards its objective Schwardorf. The woods were particularly dark during the night and the ground under foot was soggy. The vehicles had a great deal of trouble and many bogged down. Hot chow for Breakfast. Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather overcast Morale Good Mar 6 - L Co against very little resistance secured its objective Schwardorf, 0100 hours and by daylight had the position consolidated. During the morning just after daybreak a patrol from I Co moved down into Trippelsdorf and contacted the 16th Inf on the right flank at Merten. During the day the area was shelled intermittently by the enemy. Troops have been able to get a little sleep. Casualties WIA-6 Abs sk-1 Prisoners 32 Weather Overcast Morale-Excellent Mar 7 - A reinforced platoon from I Co led by Lt Angeles went out at 1350 hours and took the town of Sechtem. There was very little enemy resistance although the platoon took 79 Italians and 10 Germans as prisoners. From the Bn OP barges could be seen ferrying enemy troops to equipment east across the Rhine river. Arty fire was brought on them from the OP. Screening of civilians by our troops went on during the day. A total of 99 prisoners taken by the Bn today. Capt Ritter returned to the Bn. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Clear Morale Excellent Mar 8 - During the morning the sector was very quiet and the bn was relieved of responsibility of the sector at 1100 hours by the 32nd Cavalry. Billeting party of 1 officer and 1 NCO per Co was sent out to Lechenich at 1130 hours, but was recalled in the afternoon due to a change in plans. The Bn is to remain in billets in the present area. All attachments returned to their own companies and K Co moved back intoWalberberg from Sechtem. The day was cloudy with light rain. 5 PW's turned up in Bn area. Casualties Abs sk- 2 Mar 9 - Approx. half the man in the Bn were able to get cleaned up at the 1st QM showers today. Col Seitz visited the Bn CP in the afternoon and said he was pleased with the manner in which the men had been conducting themselves in town. Co comdrs meeting at 1500 hours at which time Lt Col Murdoch gave out details for housekeeping during the next few days while in this area. Numerous civilian problems have been settled by Lt Korach who is acting as Military Govt and Lt Legow has been of assistance in interpreting. Cos have been getting cleaned up, men and weapons. One PW was picked up in the Bn area. Lt Daugherty and 3 men to Brussels. Casualties Abs sk-2 GSW-1 Weather Cloudy Morale Excellent Mar 10 - The remainder of the Bn got cleaned up today at 1st QM showers and in local bath tubs. Cos held weapons inspections today and washed vehicles. Lt Col Murdoch went to Regtl CP in the evening to secure information on Negro rifle platoon that is to join the Bn. Mar 11 - Movies were shown for the Bn today. Father Burns said mass at 1100 hours and Chaplain Berg held Prot service at 1430 hours. Capt Stevens and Co comdrs went on Recon at 1315 in preparation for relieving 2 cos of the 2nd Bn. Col Seitz visited the Bn CP in the afternoon. The Bn officers were paid this morning. Lt Leggett and S/Sgt Boheen returned at 1700 hours with the platoon of colored troops which will serve with K Co. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Overcast Morale Excellent Mar 12 - Very quiet during the morning. At 1400 hours the officers attended Regtl meeting in Bruhl at which time Col Seitz stressed the need for correct behavior on the part of our troops. At 1600 hours the CP closed in a better location approx. ½ mile from the old CP at 1700 hours. I Co, L Co, and part of M Co went by vehicle to Wesseling approx. 5 miles to relieve E and F Cos of the 2nd Bn in position along the west bank of the Rhine. A forward CP under Capt Stevens was set up in Bersdorf. Lt Col Murdoch inspected co positions at 1830 hours and then returned to CP at Walberberg. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 13 - At 0015 hours Capt Stevens received word that the cos that had just moved into Wesseling were to be relieved by Dagwood Blue at 0600 hours. Lt Johnson rounded up the necessary transportation and had it to the companies by 0445 hours. L, I, and M Cos moved by truck back to former positions in Walberberg, closing at 0915 hours. At 0930 hours Lt Col Murdoch, and Capt Shealy went to Regtl CP to be present at the presentation of DSC to Sgt Alvin R. Wise K Co by Gen Andrus. At 1000 hours Lt Col Murdoch arrived back at the CP with Gen Taylor who addressed the platoon of colored troops atchd to K Co at 1030 hours. A billeting detail was alerted in the morning but was later called off. Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 14 - Movies were shown for the Bn today. Billeting detail under Lt Buck left at 1530 hours to go across the Rhine to an assembly area. Chap Berg held Protestant services at 1500 hours. Cos used a firing range in I Co's area for zeroing of carbines which have new sight. Co comdrs meeting at 1900 hours at which time Lt Col Murdoch issued the movement order of the next day. Capt Ritter and 1 man from I Co and 1 man from K Co left Bn to go home. Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather Fair Morale Good Mar 15 - Today the Bn moved to an assembly area across the Rhine at Burchausen. The organic transportation with M Co crossed IP at 0400 hours and arrived in assembly area 0830 hours distance travelled approx. 35 miles. The rest of the Bn Hq, I, K, L, on 2 & ½ ton trucks crossed IP in Walberberg at 0800 hours and detrucked approx. 1 mile from the Rhine at 1130 hours distance approx. 30 miles. Troops marched approx. 1 mile to river, crossed in LCVP's and marched 2 & ¾ miles to assembly area in Burchausen. Co's bivouacking in woods outside of town. Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 16 - Col Seitz visited the Bn CP during the morning. Capt Stevens reconnoitered for a Bn forward assembly area and Lt Col Murdoch reviewed the movement order and plan of attack at Regtl CP in the early afternoon. Co comdrs meeting at 1530 hours at which time Lt Col Murdoch issued the movement order and the general plan of attack.,The SOP attachments, tanks and TD's joined the Bn. 3rd Plat Co "C" 745th Tank Bn, moved at 1700 hours to assembly area in the woods at a distance of 4 miles. I Co rode tanks and TD's, Hq rode half tracks, M Co moved on organic and the remainder marched. The Bn closed in assembly area at 2115 hours. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Fair Morale Excellent. Mar 17 - Col Seitz visited the Bn CP at 1530 hours with aerial photos and Co comdrs meeting was held at which time Lt Col Murdoch issued the attack order. The Bn left the assembly area on foot at 2000 hours in order, I, L, K, M, and Hq and reached the Autobahn at 2200 hours. I Co crossed LD in attack for left portion of Bn objective. L Co followed and moved into right portion of the objective. K Co in reserve closed rear of Bn Sector and the Bn objective was secured against light resistance by 2330 hours. Casualties BI-1 WIA-1 Weather Cloudy Morale Excellent Mar 18 - Enemy harassed the Bn with sniper fire and heavy arty and mortar fire most of the day. At 1300 hours K Co was ordered to move to left flank to secure the crossroads at 721287. I Co extended the left flank to tie in with K Co to continue the line. l platoon of L Co was harassed by direct arty fire all day. Casualties WIA-8 Abs sk-7 KIA-1 Weather Cloudy Morale Good Mar 19 - Arty and mortar fire continued to fall in the sector. At 1130 hours a patrol of 1 platoon from I Co led by Lt Mosias went out to gain information of the enemy in vicinity of airfield at 740310. This patrol reached the airfield and ran into a heavy fire fight and received SP and tank fire. Then enemy tried to surround the patrol but by fire and movement Lt Mosias was able to get the information and returned to the Bn at 1400 hours. Based on this information the attack order was issued by Lt Col Murdoch to Co comdrs at 1530 hours the mission being to secure the airfield. The bn moved on foot in order L Co at 1930 hours, K Co at 2000 hours and I Co at 2030 hours with Hq Tanks and TD's following. By 2230 hours L Co had received, or secured, the left or SW sector of the Bn objective without opposition by 2300 hours. I Co passed thru K Co at approx 2330 hours toward the eastern part of the sector. Hot chow for 3 meals. Casualties WIA-8, Abs sk-8 KIA-3 Weather Fair Morale Good Mar 20 - On passing thru K Co, I Co ran into direct SP, 20 men and rifle fire and was engaged in a heavy fire fight. By 0800 hours I Co had received part of its objective at which time the enemy counter-attacked with approx. 2 companies and 12 tanks. This heavy fighting continued until 1130 hours at which time the enemy stopped attacking because of the effective fire from I Co and 1 platoon L Co and the supporting fire of 15 Bns of arty. During the remainder of the day the enemy continued to probe our sector but was driven off by effective small group small arms and arty and mortar fire. Heavy rocket fire fell in the Bn area all day one round landing beside the Bn CP damaging the Col's jeep. During the evening L Co reconnoitered the airfield for an outpost position and noticed Germans digging in on the northern edge of the field. Heavy arty and mortar fire was brought on them and they withdrew. Then L Co moved up to a position SE of the airfield to secure a road junction. Casualties WIA-14 Abs sk-2 KIA-3 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 21 - At 0500 hours I Co was counterattacked again by approx. 1 Co and 6 tanks. The attack was repulsed by 0730 hours, the enemy being driven off by heavy fire from all weapons. Lt Buck and billeting party left at 1130 hours to pick position in assembly area in vicinity of Hovel. The Bn was relieved by the 1st Bn 413 Regt of 104th Div starting at 2030 hrs in the order K, L, I, and went along without interruption. Sandwiches and coffee served as Co's arrived in new area. Capt Croft and 25 men to Verviers for 72 hour pass. Casualties WIA-5 Abs sk-2 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 22 - By 0330 hours the relief was completed and the Bn closed in assembly area at 0430. During the day the companies were sleeping and resting. During the afternoon men went to 1st QM showers. Starting at 1400 hours the Bn started shuttling to new area. M, Hq, K, L, and I Cos. The Bn closed in area at 1750 hours. Bn CP at Weiss. Casualties WIA-3 Abs sk-3 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 23 - During the day the rest of the Bn went for showers and to clean up. The Bn vehicles were washed and a good number greased during the day. Father Burnes held mass for the Bn at 1100 hours. In the afternoon Lt Price and Lt Kownatsky paid the Bn and Lt Buck took PTA for the Bn. Casualties Abs sk-5 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 24 - At 0800 hours a billeting detail was alerted but it didn't go out. During the day companies continued to get cleaned up. At 1300 hours Lt Col Murdoch and Capt Stevens attended meeting at Regtl CP. General plan of attack was issued by Lt Col Murdoch at Co comdrs meeting at 1500 hours. At 1700 hours Lt Col Murdoch and Capt Stevens again went to Regtl CP and at a Co comdrs meeting at 2000 hours the movement and attack order was issued. The Bn had the mission of leading the attack again. Lt Buck and 6 men from Bn left at 1330 hours for the States. Chaplain Berg held Prot services at 1600 hours. Reinforcements I Co-5 Casualties Abs sk-6 Weather fair Morale Excellent Mar 25 - At 0100 hours the Bn moved out on vehicles in order K Co on tanks TD's and AT half tracks, I Co, L Co, M Co , and Hq Co on 2 & ½ ton trucks and travelled approx. 3 miles and detrucked at (696350). After detrucking the Bn had to wait until 18th Inf finished clearing Uekerath. At 0700 hours the bn was alerted and moved thru Uekerath into the attack. K Co attacked down the main road towards Kraheck and Hulscheid by 1400 hours. Resistance was heavy due to enemy infantry, tanks SP's and many rockets. At the same time I Co was clearing Lobach and Darscheid and reached a point 1000 yards south of Ferme Gierscheid where they waited for L Co. L Co. moved thru K Co in attack for town of Ferme Gierscheid which was secured by 1700 hours after a heavy fight against infantry SP's and tanks. During the evening companies consolidated their positions and area was quiet except for scattered shell fire. No hot chow today. Reinforcements I Co-4 Weather Cloudy Casualties WIA-26 Abs sk-1 BC-3 MIA-4 KIA-4 Morale Good Mar 26 - A patrol form L Co went out at 1100 hours to Millelscheid and found it empty so at 1300 hours one platoon from L Co went down to secure the town. The patrol continued on to vicinity of (770405) to secure further ground where they located some enemy infantry but did not engage them. At approx. 1600 hours a strong point was set up at 675407 and remained until L Co was relieved by L Co 413th Inf 78th Div. During the day the sector was quiet. Capt Billings and men who went to the States in the first group returned to the Bn today. Casualties WIA-9 Weather Fair Morale Good Mar 27 - The relief of L Co was completed by about 0430 hours. During the day the Bn got rested and cleaned weapons as the sector was quiet. At 1630 hours Lt Buchanan took A & P platoon out on billeting detail just ahead of the Bn which moved on trucks at 1700 hours. The column was shelled several times during the 15 mile trip. Just short of Bn area the column took the wrong turn so the companies detrucked and marched approx 2 miles to respective areas. Bn CP being in Bf. Ober Erbach also L Co, K Co, was in Ober Erbach I Co in Bachenberg and M Co in Ndr Erbach. The Bn closed in area at 2400 hours. Reinforcements I Co-20 L Co- 19. Casualties WIA-4 KIA-1 Weather Cloudy Morale Excellent Mar 28 - During the early morning hours until approx 0300 hours the companies were getting into position. The sector was quiet except for a dozen shells that landed close to the Bn CP. At 1700 hours Capt Billings went out with billeting detail to assembly area. Co comdr's meeting was held at 1730 hours and the Bn started shuttling M Co, L Co, Hq Co, K Co, and I Co. At approx. 1800 hours on organic transportation the Bn closed at 2230 hours. A distance of 8 & ¾ miles. L Co went into Kundert. Hq and I Co went into Obr Morsbach, K Co at Ndr Morsbach and M Co in Winterhof. Reinforcements I-9, K-9, L-9, and M-10 Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Mar 29 - The bn remained in position the entire day. No contact vas made with the enemy and the personnel could rest an much as possible. A Co comdrs meeting was called at 2100 hours to plan the next operation. Three hot meals were served. No Casualties Weather Misty Morale Excellent Mar 30 - Covering the 3rd Armd spearhead by screening the flanks of the drive we proceeded across the IP at 0745 hours from Obr Morsbach with I Co on the assault. In support of the infantry were 634 TD's and 745 tank, AT guns towed by half tracks. The Col and his forward group in command of the operation, and an attachment of mortars and machine guns from M Co. At 1315 hours Co L remainder of Hq Co and K Co moved across IP in the aforementioned order of march. The Bn traveled a distance of 32 miles from the former position to Weldbach where they joined forces in the assembly area. Lt Buchanan plus 2 squads departed from Obr Morsbach at 0700 hours and were a billeting detail for the bn, billeting the companies at strategic positions in and around Weldbach. The kitchens fed a hot breakfast and supper. Enemy opposition was not encountered but 8 prisoners were captured. Casualties-0 Weather Clear Morale Excellent Mar 31 - The bn crossed the IP at 0630 hrs at Weldbach, and the order of march was L, K, M, Hq, with I Co in reserve. The atchd units were 745 tanks and 634 TD's. AT platoon supporting the 2 assault companies. We arrived at Banfe at 0930 hours a distance of 12 miles. Leading elements of the column which were screening our front were engaged with the enemy and it was impossible for us to continue on to Berleburg, our original destination. Leading elements of the Bn which were at Lansphe were shelled by mortar fire. The Bn remained at Banfe due to change of orders until the next day. Supper was served at 2030 hours and C-rations were issued. No Casualties Weather Fair Morale Excellent Apr 1 - The bn crossed IP in Banfe at 0630 hours, order of march L, K, M, Hq and I Co in reserve. L Co arrived at destination Ruthen at 1740 hrs, the assault co., covering a distance of 100 miles. The enemy was encountered at entrance of town by small arms and mortar fire. L Co proceeded to clear the center of the town and occupied the right flank, later moving out to Alten Kirchen, and I Co. occupied the left flank. M Co set up mortars and machine guns to support each co. The tank and TD's set-up a defensive position. Mission was to seize ground in and around Ruthen. Breakfast served at 0530 hours. Casualties WIA-2 MIA-1 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Apr 2 - The bn organized and strengthened defensive positions. Prisoner and refugees were captured or detained. Refugees were sent to the Military Government, which was set up by Maj Kohout with the aid of Lt Korach. The Military government traced down possible German civilian suspects. Number of prisoners captured were 44. In extending positions I Co sustained WIA-2 from small arms fire also from I Co. MIA-2, a chow wagon was lost in the sector. Apr 3 - Companies were set up in a defensive position. An enemy 12 man patrol attempted to enter town Alter Ruthen from Drewer, however the patrol was scattered by mortar fire. Later another force of 40-50 men attacked colored platoon from Drewer also engaged by these men. As a result one German officer Lt Col was killed and WIA were recovered. The remainder of the combat patrol dispersed. The other companies had a quiet day and spent the day improving positions. Casualties WIA-4 Prisoners EM- 14 Off-1 Weather Fair Morale Excellent. The div comdr Gen Andrus, and Inf comdr Gen Millikan, Major General visited the CP and later in the afternoon the Reg CO visited the CP. Three hot meals served. Apr 4- The situation was quiet on all fronts of the bn. The companies altered and strengthened defensive positions. K Co established contact with Fox Co of Dextrous White. The 8th Armd Div moved in with K Co positions at 1100 hours to establish a stronger front. The acting 1st Sgt of Item Co Tech Sgt Trudell returned to his organization at 1600 hours after being captive of the Germans for 8 days, in which time he marched from Euderath to Berleburg. The 2nd Div captured the town of Berleburg and he was set free. The unit that captured the town returned him to the bn. 1 st Sgt Stewart of M Co was decorated with the Silver Star by Gen Andrus at Regt Hq. Three hot meals served. Casualties-0 Prisoners-30 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Apr 5 - The bn remained in defensive position. I Co sent out a patrol 150 yards to the front to sweep the woods. A few enemy stragglers were interned. Prisoners continue to enter bn area surrendering to OP. Three hot meals. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Prisoners-13 Apr 6 - The bn in a defensive position securing the town of Ruthen. A group of 8 men were selected to go on the rotation furlough to U.S. Each letter Co were given a quota of two men. Those names submitted were to remain at CP until the next morning, when transportation was provided to evacuate them to the Regtl CP. A Jewish service was held at Dixie D at 1400 hours, all the Jewish boys who cared to attend were taken to this service at 1300 hours from the Bn CP. Three hot meals were served. Casualties-0 Weather Showers Morale Excellent Prisoners 11 EM 1 Off Apr 7 - The bn in a defensive position about Ruthen, with a well organized position. Number of prisoners interned 19 EM and l off. One prisoner was an American who was in Germany at the outbreak of the war. Later he was drafted into the German Army, and at the questioning he used every American slang term known. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Apr 8 - The Bn was alerted to move from Ruthen to relieve an armored unit at Helmartschausen. The bn was moved out at 1630 hours from the position on to objective. The forward elements arrived at destination at 2400 hours. I Co , occupying Herstelle, L Co Karlshaven, and L Co, M Co, and Hq Co occupying Helmarshausen. The motor march to destination was 75 miles in length. Two hot meals served. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Apr 9 - The bn took over the defensive positions of the Armd Units and the armor moved out. Communications were maintained by radios. The bn was alerted to move at 1730 hours and began moving at 1800 hours. The order of march L Co, K Co, M Co, Hq Co, and I Co. At midnight the bn was on the march. Three hot meals were served at supper C rations were issued. Casualties-0 Weather Very Fair Morale Excellent Apr 10 - The bn arrived at Markoldendorf the objective at 1200 hours. Enroute L Co sent out patrols to scour woods preceding the town, but did not make any contacts with enemy. The distance to the objective was 38 miles. Upon arrival L Co occupied the left portion of town I Co right portion M Co the central sector closest to the CP, K Co moved on to a small town of Hehnstedt a distance of 2 miles on foot. The field train arrived some time later and a hot supper was served at 2100 hours. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Prisoners 38 EM 2 Off. Apr 11- The bn was alerted to move at 0800 hours and at 1000 hours crossed the IP. The bn arrived in assembly area at 1115 hours, a distance of 11 miles. Order of march I Co, K Co, M Co, Hq Co, and L Co. I Co sent out a combat patrol to scour woods left of assembly area capturing 40 prisoners making a total of 50 prisoners up to 1600 hours, at which time the bn was alerted again. Moving out at 1630 hours K Co took over the lead as I Co elements had not returned. The remainder of the bn moved out in the following order. L, M, Hq, and I Cos. The bn arrived at Baldenhausen at 2030 hrs, enroute 2 rounds of arty fell close to the route of march near our objective, but no casualties were sustained. Air cover was maintained by Ninth TAC. A distance of 38 miles was traveled enroute to objective. K Co occupied a position to the left of the town of Baldenhausen I Co in Windhausen, L Co right sector of the town of Baldenhausen. Supper at 2300 hours. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Prisoner-0 Apr 12 - Two companies went into the attack K Co in the lead and L Co following in support at 1500 hours. They proceeded thru the woods in the vicinity of Clausthal and contacted the Red Bn at 1730 hrs encountering no opposition except SP fire. The following M Co, Hq Co, plus tanks and TD's assembled in Windhausen at 1630 hrs and chow was served at 1700 hrs. The bn assembled at check point 14 where transportation remained back. M Co. set up mortar positions plus Hq Co., tank and TD's. K Co. went into the assault at 2130 hours, K Co. and I Co. assault companies. Rear CP was set up in Clausthaler Silberhut. The combat continued throughout the night. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Prisoners-0 Apr 13 - The situation permitted the transportation plus rear CP moved up to join the forward elements at 0630 hours, a distance of 5 miles, arriving at 0700 hrs. L Co. occupied right edge of town, K Co. left edge of town, I Co. covered our rear with M Co. in position to support any sector. Mortar and arty fire fell in and around positions. A patrol from I Co. was sent out to reconnoiter the enemy and was pinned down by machine gun fire. In the afternoon the activity was minute altho L Co. was expecting a counterattack. Casualties-35 KIA-2 Prisoners-35 EM, 3 Off. Morale Excellent Weather Fair. Apr 14 - The bn altered its defensive positions somewhat, as I Co. moved across to Red Bn positions and occupied them. Red bn then was relieved and moved out from Zellerfeld. The situation today has been quiet only a few prisoners turning themselves into the companies. Three hot meals. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale High Prisoners 15. Apr 15 - The bn was in a defensive position most of the day. At 1430 hrs a billeting detail was alerted from each Co. with the exception of I Co. which was to remain in position. At 1500 hrs the billeting detail departed for Altenau and returned upon securing billets for the bn. At 1830 hrs the bn crossed the IP on the outskirts of Clausthal, order of march K Co. M Co., Hq Co., and L Co. moving up to the assembly area Altenau a distance of 7 miles, arriving at 1930 hrs. Chapel services both Cath & Prot were held at 1100 hrs. Three hot meals served. Casualties Abs sk-2 Weather Cloudy Morale High Apr 16 - This morning the bn had breakfast at 0500 hrs. At 0600 hrs K Co. moved across the IP at Altenau on a tactical march up to White Bn positions where troops detrucked, in support was M Co. plus tanks TD(634) and Red AT platoon. The attack was made in the direction of Braunlage as the troops moved thru White Bn positions. Later I Co. covered the left flank of K Co. As K approached checkpoint B1, they were pinned down by arty, mortar, and small arms fire. At this point L Co. moved out up to the positions to strengthen positions. The Red Bn took over I Co. positions and I Co. reorganized for another attack 400 yards in front of checkpoint Bl. Upon setting up forward positions wire communications were installed to an intermediate CP. The forward CP was attacked by Jerries, and a tank was committed and dispersed the enemy which approximated 40 men in number. Each man displayed his utmost intestinal fortitude in the following skirmish. The attack is still in progress on Braunlage a distance of 6 miles from IP. Casualties were light considering the entire situation. WIA-16 KIA-6 MIA-5 BI-2 Lt Daugherty MIA Weather Clear Morale Good Prisoners-6 Apr 17 - At 0900 hours K Co. continued the assault to Braunlage, M Co. and L Co . from Konigskrug-Whs. Upon arrival in town K Co. cleared central portion, L Co, cleared northern sector and I Co. southern sector. M Co. set up mortars in the center part of town, with MG sections with L and I Cos. The CP moved in town at 1400 hours after the situation had been cleared. Supper was served at 1800 hours. Mail at 1900 hours. Casualties WIA-5 EM, 1 Off Lt Kavm of M Co. KIA-3 Abs sk-2 BI-1 Morale-Good Prisoners-6. The number of prisoners taken were 1000 bed patients 350 walking patients. Braunlage proved to be a hospital town with many small wards in private homes. There were five Americans repatriated. Three from the 104th Div, and 2 from 1st Div., as follows 104th Lt Allen Fial NYC, S/Sgt Paul J. Schurpf, Tonnington Conn. Pvt R.S. Robertson Menlow Park, Calif, 1st Div. Lt Frank R. Hart Co G, Pvt John Kalpakoff Co G. Apr 18 - The bn is set up in a defensive position in and around Braunlage. Several patrols were sent out to sweep the woods North of town. A number of prisoners were captured and the negro platoon was accredited with 50 prisoners. Altho the enemy has not been active it is believed there are more in the woods hiding out. Three hot meals served. Casualties-0 Weather Cold Morale High Apr 19 - At 0915 hours K Co. departed defensive zone of Braunlage and retraced their route thru Konigskrug and proceeded to 3000 yards SE where the mountain tops fan out beyond this point. They swept from the highway East to a distance of 3000 meters. In this skirmish I Co. captured a few prisoners, killed one, and wounded another. At 1300 hrs M Co., L Co., I Co., and Hq Co . less rear CP departed and arrived at the cleared areas which was used as an assembly area later. They took the 3 prominent terrain features to the North after removing trees from the road. L Co. moved out of assembly area (993564) with a mission of securing high ground (975584) which mission was accomplished at 1520 hours. I Co. moved from assembly area vicinity of (997585) Heinrichschohe without delay or casualties. L Co. proceeded to secure highest ground in Central Germany Brockenks Blf. on top of same is a sports Palace. L Co. proceeded on mission meanwhile I Co. ordered to sweep area up to SE slopes of peak until cleared. L Co. reported 100 yards North of objective at 1700 hrs. I Co. ordered to return to vicinity of Schierke where they entrucked for Braunlage, by the Bn C.O. L Co. still short by approx. 200 yards and very badly scattered with continued machine gun Ack-Ack and panzerfaust fire. By the time the Co. organized for the assault on the German fortress it was dark, and due to this condition it was impossible to make the attack. The tanks could not get to L Co. positions because the road was blocked with trees and other points were large craters which hampered travel, but by 2300 hrs the road was repaired and cleared then 2 tanks dispatched to L Co. Even when the tanks reached objective they fired at a point of resistance, the hotel, still it was unable to over-run the position. L Co. for security reasons was forced to withdraw to a jump off point for the remainder of the night. Apr 20 - L Co. set in position waiting for the first rays of light at 0615 hrs. The tanks dispatched to aid L Co. were in the assembly area but could not leave because they were held up by enemy personnel firing burp guns, rifles, panzerfaust. The tanks requested that infantry be assigned to clear the area, and one platoon riflemen and one section of mortars given the mission. One platoon from L Co. came down the mountain approx. at 1130 hrs completed the task. The tanks climbed the hill and were in position to aid L Co. on the final assault. The enemy was strongly entrenched in the Palace pinnacle. One prisoner which previously had surrendered was sent back to the Germans with a white flag offering a truce to surrender at 1215 hrs. When the end of the truce period had been reached an assault was launched. Lt Korach plus 2 squads of K Co. 2 tanks assisted by elements of L Co. drew fire from Hotel. Lt Korach ordered the tanks to fire using AP, the building was riddled. Under cover they rushed the building gaining entrance. In a matter of a few minutes all the floors of the Fortress building were cleared. They captured 20 prisoners including 2 officers. At 1400 hours L Co. took over position and formed a solid defensive position. During this operation L Co. lost Lt Abele, Sgt Shepard and 3 other EM. Estimated enemy dead 25, WIA-10 total captured 60. After defensive positions were set up the remainder of the bn ordered to Braunlage to resume defensive position of that town. Casualties WIA-10 KIA-8 Abs sk-3 Weather fair Morale Good Apr 21 - At 0700 hrs K Co. moved from Braunlage to relieve L Co. which was on the mountain. By 1000 hrs K Co. was entirely relieved and rejoined the Bn at Braunlage at 1130 hrs. to resume defensive positions in the town. The donut girls from the Red Cross arrived this morning and gave out donuts, coffee and jive on a schedule for each co. It has been the first donuts we have received since Hurtegen forest. Three hot meals served. Casualties-0 Morale High Weather Snow Prisoners-0. Apr 22 - The bn is in a defensive position at Braunlage. At 1130 hrs a billeting detail was alerted to move, from each co., consisting of 1 off. and 3 EM, from Hq Co. 1 squad from A & P plat. plus 1 wire section and an interpreter. Men are cleaning equipment and clothing. Three hot meals. Casualties-0 Weather Snow Morale Excellent Prisoners-0 Apr 23 - At 1730 hrs K Co. was relieved from its position on the mountain by the 8th Armd. Due to the inclement weather the troops had difficulty in withdrawing from their position because of 5 inches of snow on the mountain. The bn was alerted to move, and awaiting further orders. Allotments of furloughs were submitted to the Cos. Hq-1 I-1 K-1 L-2 M-2. Casualties-Abs sk-3 Weather Snow & Intermittent showers Morale High Apr 24 - The bn remained in a defensive position up to 1500 hrs at which time K Co. crossed the IP in Braunlage, enroute to Wolferstadt followed by Hq, I Co, L Co, and M Co. The route of march was at first south out of Braunlage and then west from Nordhausen. As we departed for the now position the snow peak was visible for miles once an objective and now occupied by Americans. The journey was a net distance of 64 miles and a 4 hr march, arriving at destination at 1900 hrs. The kitchens and supply rooms were with each co. enroute and immediately upon arrival the billeting detail guided personnel to selected areas, and kitchens set up immediately upon arrival. The billeting detail guided personnel to molested areas and the kitchens immediately prepared a hot supper. Companies Hq, K, and M, set up in assembly area in the town of Wolferstadt while I & L Cos. set up in Winkle. Weather-fair Morale High Casualties-0 Apr 25 - The bn rested today. All the troops spent time in cleaning clothing and equipment. Transportation was checked, cleaned and greased, minor repairs were made and those vehicles requiring major repairs were made at Service Co. During the afternoon the troops went to showers following a schedule designed by the adjutant. Men that were given a furlough to USA departed this morning at 0630 hrs, immediate destination Regtl Hq. 3 hot meals served. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Apr 26 - The troops spent their time today engaging in sports, both outdoor and indoor. Transportation had an ordnance check today, vehicles were cleaned and greased for the inspection, paint applied to rust spots. In the afternoon a USO show was held in Allstedt and personnel departed from the Bn CP at 1330 hours. At 1400 hrs a billeting detail was alerted to move out early the next day at 0530 hrs. The bn to follow later in the day at 1300 hrs. Three excellent meals served. Casualties-0 Morale Excellent Weather Fair Apr 27 - March into Czechoslovakia The billeting detail departed for Asch at 0530 hrs, and arrived at Regtl Hq in order to assemble with the other bn billeting details. They departed from Regtl Hq at 0600 hrs. The troops had breakfast at 0700 hrs in order to facilitate matters for serving dinner at 0945 hours. At 1215 hrs the Bn departed from Wolferstadt, the order of march I-K-M-Hq and L Cos. Crossing the IP. I Co. and L Co. linked in with the convoy at Wolferstedt. At 1930 hrs the bn arrived at the destination Asch, Czechoslovakia, a distance of 128 miles. Troops were billeted upon their arrival in definite areas, upon the arrangement of the billeting detail. I Co. continued the march to the town of Newberg, setting up defensive positions. Security patrols were assigned to patrol the streets during the night. Casualties-0 Weather Intermittent showers Morale High Apr 28 - The companies shifted positions in Asch to give a solid secure position. K Co. moved to the outskirts of town on the SE sector. L Co. moved to the outskirts on the SE sector. Later K Co. sent patrols out to Vernerov and Dalrouth and found the towns unoccupied. As a result of the patrol L Co. went to occupy Vernerov. Today I Co. received arty fire from the vicinity of the woods to their front. Casualties-0 Weather Fair Morale Excellent Apr 29 - This morning one platoon of L Co. reinforced went out on the assault and occupied Horruth. In the afternoon the remainder of L Co, plus tanks, and TD's went in to further reinforce their position. K Co. moved out to secure some high ground and to assault the town of Dolreuth. The Co. entered the town from the rear taking the enemy by surprise capturing 7 prisoners. At 2000 hrs K Co. moved from Dolreuth to assault Gurth. On the outskirts of town they drew small arms fire but no casualties, later occupying the town. Later moving out to successfully secure the crossroads on the other side of town. At 1440 hrs I Co. was on the ready line on the road to Krugsruth. At the entrance of town they drew sporadic small arms fire however at 1900 hrs they secured the town and set up defensive positions. At 1830 hrs Hq Co. moved from Asch to secure Dolreuth relieving K Co. arriving at 1900 hrs. Covering a distance of 2 & 1/2 miles. Casualties- WIA-1 (N) Weather Intermittent showers Morale Excellent Apr 30 - Today L Co. assaulted the town of Ober Brambach, occupied it and set up defensive positions. K Co. sent out a patrol to Raum to reconnoiter the town, and later the entire Co. moved out from Gurth to assault Raum. After a short fire fight they secured the town and immediately set up defensive positions. I Co. remained in the town of Krugsreuth, M Co. moved from Asch to Dolreuth. Weather- Intermittent showers. Prisoners-10 including 3 officers. Casualties- BI2. May 1 - At 0800 hrs the Blue 3, Capt Stevens visited the Co. CP's to review the tactical situation, This morning L Co. extended its left flank a distance of 1000 yards to further secure its position at Ober Brambach. At 1000 hrs I Co. swept over hill 681 adjacent Raum, clearing out the woods also moving due east from the railroad tracks, securing its position. At 1300 hrs L Co. contacted K Co. from the Northern edge of the woods. At 1200 hrs a platoon from K Co. swept up along hill 683 and swept woods to a contact point due East from railroad tracks, and made contact at 1400 hrs. The bn was in position at 1600 hrs. Hq Co. moved into Krugsreuth at 0930 hrs from Dolreuth a distance of 3 miles. I Co. assembled two platoons on the outskirts of Krugsreuth upon the arrival of Hq Co. At K Co's position yesterday 6 rounds of arty fell in and around causing no casualties. L Co. sent out a patrol to the front at 1100 hrs and when they were sweeping the woods back to the area they were ambushed, as a result 2 were killed and 1 wounded. They were pinned down until 1300 hrs when they were relieved by a squad from their co. The platoon did not gain contact with the enemy to the East of this position, on the neighboring high terrain. We called for arty on several targets. The liaison cub was given a mission to search for a German CP somewhere in the vicinity of Landwust. We now have L & K Cos. in Germany while I, Hq and part of M Co. are in Czechoslovakia. Casualties KIA-2, WIA-1, Abs sk-1 SIW-1 Weather Showers Morale Good May 2 - The bn remained in the same position today, and the Cos were building stronger defensive positions. Three rounds of arty fell in on K Co. positions today causing no casualties or damage. As a recreation program was scheduled, there were 2 shows at Asch thru Special Service. Casualties Abs sk- 1 Weather Showers Morale Excellent May 3 - The bn remained in the defensive position. Administration work is being carried on extensively clearing decorations and awards thru channels. An officers' PX has been established whereby one off. from the bn makes the purchases for all officers, along with the ration books allotted, to each officer. Entertainment was provided today by Special Service at Asch, where there were two shows, one in the afternoon and one in the evening. Casualties Abs sk-1 Weather Showers Morale Excellent May 4 - The bn remained in its fortified defensive position. The enemy put 8 rounds of arty in K Co. area causing no damages or casualties. Lt Byerly was selected as bn PX officer to make the purchases for the officers desiring merchandise from the PX. A Laundry service was established and I Co. had their clothes laundered. The men were well satisfied with the service. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Fair Morale Excellent. May 5 - At 1530 hrs the bn was alerted to send out a reconnaissance patrol to the front in the vicinity of Rohnbach, Henneback and Nunnknok. The mission was to contact and estimate their force. At 1700 hrs Lt Mosias and his platoon reported that they made no contact nor did they observe the enemy anywhere. The attack order arrived at 1830 hrs. A USO show was given at Bad Elsen by Belgian talent. Casualties Abs sk-3 Weather Rain Morale Excellent May 6th - At 0500 hrs the bn made a dawn attack with K Co. on the left and I Co on the right. K Co assaulted due East of Raun and I Co assaulting due East from Oberbrambach. At 0550 hrs M Co fired mortars into Rurbach f rom Oberbrambach to scatter the enemy. Both I Co and K Co begin the assault march upon the completion of fire and the enemy was scattered upon arriving at Rurbach and 23 prisoners were interned without a fire fight. K Co advanced along the same route of approach. I Co carried on to Shongrub arriving at 1100 hrs, along the march they were in contact with C Co of the 16th Inf. K Co. overran Voekou and altered its route of march to azimuth NE and were ready for the attack on Schonbach but awaited tanks to reach their position at the road intersection. At 1500 hrs after A&P pltn. cleared the road of mines, the assault began on Schonbach. Prior to the attack on Schonbach I Co ran into the only organized resistance all day at 1500 yds east of Shongrub. It was stubborn resistance set up by the enemy personnel as a result 12 prisoners were taken 2 killed, 2 wounded and also 2 civilians wounded. The tanks opened fire on the buildings used as strong points by the enemy. No casualties sustained in this skirmish. After this resistance was cleared K Co assaulted Schonbach and the town was half cleared they met friendly troops from C Co 26th Inf. The town was cleaned immediately and K Co went to secure Ashborth quickly securing in and all surrounding high ground. Defensive positions were organized and strong points fortified. I Co now to the SE took Brenndorf without trouble and moved further east to North Kostel and assembled defensive positions South and East, reinforced by one pltn of MG's one section of 81 mortars, 2 tanks and Regt. AT. L Co ordered to fill the gap between K and I Co's a distance of 4000 yds, securing high ground and a series of strongpoints at Oldrischof. L Co reinforced by one pltn of TD's, one tank. K Co reinforced by one pltn of MG's, section of 81 mortars, 2 tanks, and bn. AT pltn. The bn. occupied over 12,000 yds in the assault but fell short of Reg. objective due to bad weather and mostly rugged terrain. The troops were squared away at 1000 hrs forming a solid organized defensive. Cas: BI-2 one man while arresting a rifle from a jerry out his hand. Weather rain Morale Excellent May 7th - The bn. in an organized defensive position, received no fire from small arms, mortars, or artillery. The troops are relaxing after a difficult hike up to the present position. Chow was at 0500 in lieu of another objective. The assault began at 0600 hrs, towards the objective but at 0730 hrs they were recalled by Major Nations on orders from Higher Hq. The bn. organized in its former position and remained there. The field train moved from Schonbach about 1100 hrs and dinner was served at 1330 hrs supper at 0600 hrs. Cas: accidental wound 1 Pvt Holpp was injured when a bullet in a trash pile which he was burning went off injuring him in lower left leg. Morale excellent. May 8th - The bn in a defensive position. German troops were surrendering by convoys and taken immediately to the Reg PW cage where they were interned. Two German airplanes surrendered making a landing on the outskirts of town. The band gave a concert at 1300 hrs, a film was showed at 1500 hrs and 1900 hrs, and church services at 1700 hrs. A Regt'l formation was held in the square of the town and two old soldiers at least from each company attended. At this formation the Regt. CO gave a speech retrogressing on the past history from the initial amphibious landing at Oran to the present VE day May 9th. Taps were sounded for those who parted from our midst. The formation closed at 1700 hrs with the playing of the Beer barrel Polka. Cas: 0 Morale -- excellent Weather -- fair. May 9th - Companies are in a defensive position. Prisoners continued to flow through L Co area, yesterday it was estimated at over 3000 prisoners were interned. The attch'd units withdrew to their parent unit. The bn was allotted 5 men to go on furlough and the break down was 1 per company. The entertainment was the band playing twice during the day at 0330 hrs and at 1930 hrs, respectively. The movie was held at 1430 hrs and another at 1930 hrs. Cas: Acc. wound- 3 ab sk 1. Weather fair Morale excellent. Prisoners interned from 397th Inf Div 10 May - The bn remained in a defensive position. Today German prisoners continued to flow through our area from Army Hq, Corp Hq's Div Hq and hosp. personnel and patients. Today was payday for the EM. Lt Magdeburg and Lt Meyer paying I and K Co's respectively. The band played, movies were shown on a regular schedule. The AP pltn were detailed to give water to the prisoners at 2030 hrs. The anti-tank pltn rejoined Hq Co. Cas: NONE, Morale excellent. Weather fair. May 11th - Forward elements of the bn. moved out sweeping cross country on the Grossengrug-Kroslice highway. The companies jumped off at 0800 hrs from the MLR and arrived on objective. During the assault enemy soldiers were diverted to the rear. The companies closed their positions at 1400 hrs after an uneventful day and at 1700 hrs a defensive arc was set up and fortified. At 1800 hrs an order was given no more civilians or soldiers were permitted to pass through our lines, but diverted to Hzortin. The entire march covered 10,000 yds. Cas: Morale excellent Weather fair. 12 May - The bn remained in the defensive position today. Routine guard controlling traffic across the river, permitting no refugees to flow between the lines. The Regt commander visited the bn. CP at 1400 hrs. The bn is stable and well deployed for any opposition that might arise. 13 May - At 0945 hrs the bn attended a movie produced by the Chief of Staff Gen Marshall concerning a man's points for the redeployment into segregated groups one going to CBI theater of operations, the other as an Army of Occupation, and another to return to the US to be segregated into groups essential and nonessential. There were Protestant Services held at 1500 hrs and Catholic mass at 100 hrs. The Red Cross girls gave out donuts and coffee to each company and the adjutant commandered the girls about the bn. Cas: 0 Morale excellent Weather fair. 14 May - The bn remained in the defensive position today. The men to go on furlough were apportioned Hq-7, M-6, I & L-4, K-6. The breakdown was based on the number of men who were eligible for discharge under the redeployment plan. Those having a critical points rating very high to the lesser scores were selected. There were 2 movies at M Co area at 1500 hrs and 1900 hrs. Showers were available to the troops on a time schedule. Cas: abs sk 2 NBI-1. Critical pts for redeployment were determined early this morning by the personnel clerks. 15 May - The bn remained in the defensive position today. The troops are cleaning equipment and washing clothes, also taking showers. The men leaving on furlough were to report at the Bn. CP at 1830 hrs. After assembling the men in front of the CP Lt Col Corley awarded individuals Bronze Stars who were citated for same at 2000 hrs. After the formation the men returned to Schonbach where they slept. Normal guards were posted at road blocks, various CP's and gun positions. Shows were performed twice. Cas: 0 Morale excellent Weather fair. 16 May - The bn. remained in the defensive position. Physical profile cards were completed by the pltn leaders and pltn sgts. signed by the Co CO upon his approval. An officers roster was submitted by date of rank and position within the company. Upon receiving these rosters a single roster was compiled by the Sgt Major T/Sgt Usner. A USO show was held at Schonbach at 1500 hrs. An indefinite allotment of men were able to attend this show and transportation was provided. Cas ab sk 1, Weather fair Morale excellent. 17 May - The kitchens and supply rooms are with the Co's and the S-4 has moved his office close to M Co CP. The troops were cleaning equipment, washing clothes. Chapel services were held at 1600 hrs by Chap. Byrnes who rendered mass at that time. 2 shows were held at the bn theater at M Co. A list of names were submitted to bn of those who were next in line to return to US on the redeployment plan. Cas: 0 Weather fair Morale excellent. 18 May - This morning companies were following their drill schedule for the morning. The ratio for those to return to US on redeployment Hq-3 I-1, K-2, L-2, and M-3 from Regt'l Hq. A Co Comdrs meeting was held at 1500 hrs at M Co. Area concerning points to follow during our stay in the present position. A rifle inspection was held before chow at 1700 hrs. Two shows were performed at the Bn theater. Cas: 0 Weather fair 19 May - The bn followed the drill schedule this morning and were given the afternoon off. S/Sgt Penn came to the CP this morning to determine the officers interim points. A program for showers was prescribed and carried thru. The officers had a stag party at 1900 hrs. Lt Legow visited the Bn from SHAEF Hq. He was formerly the adjutant of this organization. Cas: abs sk 2 Weather - intermittent showers. Morale excellent 20 May - A Bn Com'drs meeting was held at Regt at 100 hrs. Church service was conducted, Catholic mass at 1100 hrs in L Co area and Protestant services at 1400 hrs in M Co area. There were two shows at Bn theater. A training schedule was drafted by Capt Stevens with a special interest toward weapons. Cas: abs sk 1 Weather fair Morale excellent 21 May - The bn followed the drill schedule on a 50% basis, 50% of the company drilling the morning and the remainder in the afternoon. This policy has been adopted in lieu of our defensive position. Two shows were given at the Bn theater and the picture Winged Victory. The regt CO Lt Col Murdoch visited the CP at 1400 hrs. Those men to return to US on the redeployment were alerted. Cas abs sk 5 Weather intermittent showers Morale excellent 22 may - The bn followed the drill schedule this morning and afternoon. Those men selected to depart from the bn mounted trucks at 0515 hrs destination Reg Hq. Major Kelly visited the CP from Div I&E dept. Two shows were given at the Bn Theater at M Co, the picture My Pal Wolf. A roster of officers luggage and personal effects was compiled. Many decorations were submitted for approval of and a record made of each. T/Sgt Dobel was selected out of the Bn for a Russian award, because of his outstanding record in the past. This recommendation was made by Lt Col Corley. Cas: abs sk 3 Weather showers Morale excellent May 23 - The usual camp duties were followed. Vehicles are being cleaned, greased, and painted for the inspection which is due may 26th. two shows were performed at bn theater. Cas: abs sk 1. Weather intermittent showers Morale excellent 24 May - Rainy day schedule was followed because of inclimate weather. Troops were instructed about weapons, radio, & demolition. Cleaning of vehicles was suspended also, in preparation for painting. Shows were performed twice at the bn theater. Another quota was allotted for redeployment within the bn I Co-2 K-4, L-3, M-4 and Hq-4. A roster was compiled at the CP of those men returning and submitted to Higher Hq. Cas: abs sk 0 Weather showers Morale excellent. May 25 - The companies followed the normal camp duties. The steel helmets were sprayed and the division insignia was stenciled thru-out the bn. All vehicles were cleaned and are ready for painting pending the quantity of paint which will be allotted for the job. There were two shows at the bn theater. Cas: 0 Weather intermittent showers Morale excellent 26 May - The Co's followed the usual camp duties. The training schedule was adhered to. The men who were selected for redeployment were brought to Reg Hq to sign form 32's. Shortages in the bn were filled by supply rooms of each company, making the men up to TE in some items of clothing. Cas: abs sk 3 Weather fair Morale excellent 27 May - The Sunday schedule was followed, breakfast of 0800 hrs. Catholic mass at 1000 hrs and Protestant services at 1400 hrs. The Red Cross donut girls visited the letter Co's omitting Hq Co because of the lack of time. There were two shows at the Bn theater on Dancing on Broadway one at 1500 hrs and the other at 1900 hrs. The men who were selected for redeployment were brought to the bn CP awaiting trans. early on the 28th of May. Cas: ab sk 4 Weather fair Morale excellent 28 May - The usual camp duties were followed thru. In the afternoon there was an ordnance inspection of individual arms. The men for redeployment departed at 0245 hrs for Regt Hq. There were two showings at the Bn theater. Another quota for redeployment was submitted to this CP from Reg Hq. Cas: ab sk 4 Weather fair Morale excellent 29 May - The Co's followed normal camp duties. The afternoon schedule was composed of the Lecture 2 Down and 1 To Go. Men in selected categories were giver an opportunity to express themselves just as though it were an open forum. There were two showings at the bn theater. Trans. was requested for our next move. 40 trucks were required to move the entire bn. including kitchens and supply rooms. Cas: ab sk 1 Weather fair Morale high. 30 May - Memorial day services were held at Schonbach with Chaplain Byrnes officiating and another service at Bleistadt for Protestant enlisted men and officers with Capt. Burke officiating. Trucks were provided for both Memorial Services by Service Co. The Co's followed routine camp duties and training schedule. The afternoon program consisted of checking clothing at a showdown inspection at which time shortages were taken and Form 32's were properly filled in with the amount of equipment each man had in his possession. There were 2 showings at the Bn Theater. Cas: ab sk 1 Weather fair Morale excellent. 31 May - Due to inclimate weather the bn followed the rainy day schedule which is a series of indoor lectures on weapons also crew served weapons. There were 2 shows at the Bn theater. Cas: ab sk 3 Weather rain. 1 June - The bn had practice parades within Co areas, until each Co C.O. felt his troops appeared well. The parade which was originally scheduled for 1500 hrs was advanced one hr and the formation was called for at 1400 hrs. The Co's marched on the parade ground, and by the colors at 1400 hrs. the men to be decorated were given their awards and decorations by the Reg. C.O. Lt Col Murdoch. Only one show in the evening at Bn Theater. A jeep accident occurred outside Hof, when one of M Co's vehicles swerved off the road. Cas: ab sk 0 Weather fair Morale ex. 2 June - The usual camp duties were adhered to, and an inspection of vehicles. A rifle inspection was given by each company at 1130 hrs. Afternoon was given off. Cas: ab sk 1 Weather rain Morale excellent. HEADQUARTERS 3RD BATTALION JOURNAL FOR THE 3RD BATTALION, 26th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division COMMENCING NOVEMBER 1ST 1942 possibly written by Paul Lunnie and John D. Stomer at the request of Col. John D. Corley. November 1st to 7th at sea. Aboard ship L-10 enroute to French Algeria. Nov. 8th - Les-Andalouses, French Algeria. Tactical landing on White Beach at 0130; initial combat operation for the battalion. Initial elements of the battalion fired on at 0745; but continued advance with slight resistance uphill to Djebel Murdjadjo was only slightly opposed. Reached initial objective (Djebel Murdjadjo) about 0830. Remainder of days action consisted of automatic weapons and 81mm fire used by Company "M". Enemy patrols active at night. Nov. 9th - Heavy artillery fire on position on Djebel Murdjadjo, about 0700, casualties reported. Throughout the day artillery fired intermittently on our position probably enemy mortar fire as well. Company "M" mortars and machine gun section active throughout the day. Enemy patrols active at night. Between 8th and 9th there was no available communication by radio. Foo party (British) had contact thru ships at sea with our regiment - our only communication with any of our regiment. Nov. 10th - Throughout the morning enemy artillery fire and mortar fire kept intermittent activity against Djebel Murdjadjo. Our artillery neutralized enemy positions to a great extent. Enemy surrendered approximately 1230 this date. Battalion moved to heights west of Oran at 1500 and went into tactical bivouac. Nov. 11th - 12th - Remained in tactical bivouac west of Oran until 0900 the morning of the 12th when the battalion moved to La-Senia Airport with the tactical mission of guarding the base against enemy ground attack. Distance traveled 11 ½ miles by foot. Nov. 13th thru 19th - Usual guard duties. Nov. 20th - Company "I" and Anti-Tank platoon of Hq & Hq Company 3rd Battalion left at 0930 for Tafaroui Airport to leave on secret mission. Destination unknown. Nov. 21st - 23rd - Usual guard duties. Nov. 23rd - Company "L" and Anti-Tank platoon of 2d Battalion accompanied by Major Corley, Lt. Dreier, and Pvt DeFelice of Hq 3rd Battalion, left La-Senia Airport for Tafaroui Airport at 0820 to leave by plane destination unknown. Nov. 24th - 25th - Normal guard duties. Nov. 26th - Lt Col Bowen, Staff Sgt Pokorny, Pvt Harris left on secret mission to Algiers. Capt Walter H. Grant assumed command in absence of Lt Col Bowen. Nov. 27th - Normal guard duties. Nov. 28th - Bn alerted and prepared to move to new base. Lt Col Bowen and party returned to La-Senia Airport. Nov. 29th - Left La-Senia Air base by motor for Tafaroui Air Base, (Distance 7 miles) Were flown from Tafaroui air base to Bleida, leaving at 1115. Arrived at Bleida at 1315 and took up tactical bivouac. Transported by 60th and 62nd Transport Service in C-47's. Distance 300 miles. Nov. 30th - Left Bleida at 0950 by air in same planes for Youks-Les-Bains. Arrived at destination at 1115, took up a tactical bivouac for the night. (Distance travelled 400 miles). Dec. 1st - Travelled over road approximately 55 miles to Feriana to await orders issued by Col Edson D. Raff. Left for objective by motor reached objective at 2000. Route Feriana, Thelepte, Sidi-Bou-Zid, Djebel, Bon Dzei, detrucked approximately 5 miles from objective advanced to attack with Bn Hq Section Ammunition and Pioneer Section of Hq & Hq Company; Company "M", and Company "I" less one rifle platoon. Troops involved with this battalion were Company "B" 701st TD Bn and one French Rifle Company. Reached the minor hills in vicinity of Djebel-Bou-Dzer action stabilized until 1600, when German positions were attacked. Lts Hersey and Stanton wounded. Attack repulsed by well entrenched machine gun fire. Dec. 2nd - Action stabilized most of the day. Dec. 3rd - Enemy positions in Faid shelled by French artillery from 1300 to 1500. Company "E", 503rd Parachute Battalion moved in rear as a reserve unit. Successful attack launched at 1700; at which time 120 German prisoners were taken. Units in attack were Company "I", Ammunition and Pioneer Platoon of Hq and Hq Company, one French Rifle Company, 503rd Parachute Company. Dec. 4th - Moved to Faid. (1300) Remained in bivouac until 2030 Dec. 5th. Moved to Sidi-Bou-Zid at 1930 by truck distance (12 miles). Companies bivouacked tactically surrounding the town. C.P. established in town at 2230. Bn C.O. remained at Faid. Dec. 6th - Faid attacked by enemy bombers at 0730 and again at 0945. Five vehicles destroyed and one casualty result of first attack - no damage from second. Bn S-6 and S-5 in CP outside of Sidi-Bou-Zid at 1530. S-5 in CP overnight. S-6 and S-5 called to conference at Col Raff's Headquarters at 1800. 3rd Bn S-3 held meeting for company officers in CP at 1830. Radio contact established with O.P. at pass near Faid, at 1630. Telephone communications established with half tracks, CP in Sidi-Bou-Zid, and civilian switchboard at 1700. Dec. 7th - Enemy air attack in vicinity of Faid at 0730. Enemy planes over camp area at 1000. Friendly planes patrolling area all day. Enemy planes attacked at 1820. AT Platoon 2nd Battalion, 26th Inf, joined us at 2130. Company "I" patrol on special mission. Pioneer and Ammunition Platoon Hq & Hq Company, 3rd Bn, out on several missions daily - mine laying, blasting, booby traps, etc. Dec. 8th - Enemy planes attacked at 0720. Battalion Commander called a meeting of all company commanders at 1130 today in the CP and to meet at same time and place daily. Battalion moved into billets in town at 1830 for the night (rain). Dec. 9th - Battalion moved to bivouac area from overnight billet at 0545. Enemy planes attacked at 1240 and again at 1325. Battalion moved at 1430 to overnight billets. Battalion alerted for possible move. Billeting detail left at 1800 (Lt Murphy and S/Sgt Pokorny). Dec. 10th - Battalion returned to bivouac area from overnight billets at 0530. Enemy planes bombed Sidi-Bou-Zid and vicinity at 1110. Day spent in preparation for move. Battalion, Company "M", Hq Company and part of Company "K" (44) entrucked at 1830, crossed IP at 1930 arrived at billets near Feriana, Tunisia at 0330 Dec 11th, 1942. Dec. 11th - CP established in Feriana and at billets, day spent in arranging billets, routine guard, etc. Remainder of battalion (less one platoon and Lt Weeks, Maj Corley, remained at Sidi-Bou-Zid area as guard and police detail) left Sidi-Bou-Zid at 2230 arrived at Feriana 0630. (Distance 82 miles). Dec. 12th - Remainder of battalion arrived at billets at Feriana at 0635. Company "I" continued on to Youks-Les-Bains to replace Company"L" as airport guards. Company "L" moved up to billets at Feriana at 1450. Intelligence section left Feriana at 1430 under Lt Dreier and Cpl Larkin, on special mission to Gafsa. Convoys of supplies, equipment, barracks bags, etc., arrived during the night. Maj Corley, Lt Weeks, S/Sgt LeCates arrived with the remainder of Company "K". Dec. 13th - Church services by Chaplain Chase 1000. Bn S-6 to meeting at Col Raff's office 1330. 3rd Bn Anti-tank Platoon returned from Gafsa at 1330. Capt Hughes and Mr. Lundstrom (AP) left CP at 1445 for Algiers on a special mission. Strength is as follows with attached units: Hq Co 6 officers and 112 EM, 6 officers and 40 EM attached, Co"K", 5 officers and 171 EM, Co "L", 3 officers and 124 EM, Co "M", 5 officers and 165 EM, 105th C.A. 1 officer and 46 EM, 53rd Signal, 1 officer and 10 EM, 503rd Parachute, 4 officer and 81 EM, Tank Destroyer 6 officers and 192 EM. Lt Woods Co "L", lead patrol thru Maknassy to Manousa after dark. Green flares were shot in air at each end of his column of 3 jeeps. Patrol returned without encountering any enemy. Dec. 14th - Bn S-6 called a company commanders meeting for 0800, Chaplain Chase and Cpl Nuber left Feriana for Algiers by plane at 1030. Lt Col Bowen and Pvt Heffernan left CP at 1130 for Gafsa returned at 1600. Bn S-6 and S-5 to Col Raff's Hq at 1830. Lt Smith, 2nd Bn, Anti-Tank Platoon, lead patrol to farm about 1 mile west of Maknassy. Learned of presence of Italians in Maknassy and returned. Dec. 15th - Company commanders meeting scheduled for 1300 daily by S-6. Usual camp duties by personnel. Intelligence information: (100 Italians in Maknassy, 40 Germans 3 miles from Maknassy on road to Sidi-Bou-Zid, Faid at bridge. One or two trains (supply) leave Tunis for Gabes nightly). Contact patrol of Lt Woods, Co "L", a French soldier and an American soldier strafed by JU-88 on way to La-Senia no casualties. Returning to Gafsa jeep overturned, wrecking the jeep and causing head injuries to French soldier. Patrol lead by Lt Smith, 2nd Bn Anti-Tank platoon entered Maknassy and learned that about 150 Italians were asleep in and near the railroad station. Observed (5) unmanned Anti-Tank guns along the road toward Gafsa. Dec. 16th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-6 and Pvt Harris left by jeep for Gafsa at 1230. Bn S-3 and Pvt Usner left by jeep for Gafsa at 1320. Two platoons (Lt Magrail and Lt Falconeri) with Capt Morrissey left for Gafsa on a special mission at 1510. Enemy plane flew over the area at 2104. Reconnaissance patrol in force (two platoons, rifle, Co "L" mentioned above) with Bn Commander. Capt Morrissey and Capt Fryman travelling by 4 2½ ton trucks, one jeep and one ambulance left for Gafsa for Maknassy at 1800. Detrucked about five miles west of Maknassy and attacked Italian positions in the town from the south and east. Opposed energetically by fire from Anti-Tank guns (5) and machine guns. Captured 21 Italian prisoners and withdrew along road to the west toward Gafsa at 0400 Dec.17th. See attached Intelligence Reports: (Intelligence Information: 30 Italians at Megnona, 100 Italians at Maknassy with Anti-Tank and machine guns, 40 Germans at bridge 3 miles north of Maknassy, German patrol sent to Maigila pass and return, about 45 enemy at Reghleb, sent light vehicle with six men to Metleg pass, Maximum of 150 enemy at Kiechem.) Dec. 17th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Raiding patrol returned with 21 Italian prisoners at about 1400. Dec. 18th - Usual camp duties by personnel. German plane flew over camp area at 0630, dropped two bombs near Feriana and later several more on airfields at Thelepte. Enemy plane was chased away by our own P-40's. German flew over camp area at 1230 - no bombs were dropped. Dec 19th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-3 and 1 Platoon of Company "L" under Lt Buttolph and Lt Billings, and Pvt Usner left for Gafsa at 1010. Air alarm at 1125. Meeting of all Bn officers and Plt Sgts at 1315 at Bn S-6 quarters (Critique on Co "L" raid.) Dec. 20th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 0645, mail call at 1545. Bn S-1 and Capt Rainey returned from mission (Algiers) at 1750. Bn Intelligence section returned from mission at Gafsa at 2130 - also a platoon of Co "L". Dec. 21st - Usual camp duties by personnel. One squad of Ammunition and Pioneer platoon left camp at 1415 - mission mine laying. Enemy activity reported at Kebeis. Ammunition and Pioneer Squad under Cpl Halko to work under Bn S-3 at Gafsa. Chaplain Chase returned from D. S. Algiers at 2045, convoy of mail supplies and equipment arrived at 2045. Dec. 22nd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 0625 and at 0640, Bn S-5 to Youks Les Bains at 1340. Practice alert in case of enemy air and ground attack at 1600 companies to their dispersal areas. Dec. 23rd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 1000, Bn S-6 and Pvt Harris to Gafsa at 1300, convoy of replacements arrived at 1903. Unassigned Dec. 24th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Anti-Tank platoon, Bn S-1 to Gafsa on special mission at 1930, church services at 2330. Replacements assigned to companies. Dec. 25th - Special mission to Gafsa returned to Feriana at 0730, Bn S-1 returned at 0830 after reporting results at French Hq at Gafsa. On reaching Gafsa on the night of the 24th at 1900, the mission consisting of Capt Hughes, Lt Honecker, 2nd section of the 3rd Bn Anti-Tank platoon, and one section of Ammunition and Pioneer Platoon proceeded to Sened where they were met by Lt Buttolph and 12 men of Company "M". The mission of the Anti-Tank section was to proceed along the road, Gafsa, Sened, Maknassy, to utilize the closest possible range of the town of Maknassy, and open fire south 2 Anti-Tank guns, on the town, firing for approximately 5 minutes, and then withdrawing as quickly as possible to Gafsa. Lt Buttolph and his patrol were to secure the route mentioned above and also provide local security for the Anti-Tank guns. Both patrols left Sened at 2230, at 20 minute intervals, over very muddy, and rough roads. The advance patrol detrucked at a point 5 miles west of Maknassy and proceeded on foot, followed by the Bn Anti-Tank section. The patrol moved forward to a point 1 mile west of Maknassy, where gun positions were selected. At the moment the guns advanced from rear of column to their positions, all enemy guns, both anti-tank and automatic weapons opened fire on all roads leading from the town. This enemy fire lasted for about 5 minutes. Because of unsuitable terrain, and a lack of cover for anti-tank guns our guns did not fire. (Our mission was solely to create confusion in the town: this was done without firing a shot). Our route of approach to the town was under heavy enemy anti-tank gun fire, so the mission withdrew immediately. Mission successful without expenditure of men, vehicles or ammunition. The same night a patrol lead by Lt Megrail consisting of 3 men from Co "L" and 4 Pioneer men with a mission of laying mines and cutting enemy telephone wires, at El Hafey southeast of El Guettar, attempted to accomplish their mission. They were fired on by 2 anti-tank guns, 4 machine guns, and approximately 70 riflemen, that were occupying an outlying outpost. Throughout the evening, our patrols succeeded in harassing and exciting the enemy outposts with no damage to themselves. Otherwise Christmas day was enjoyed by all. Dec. 26th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Outpost at Gafsa relieved by Lt Shaw and one cal .30 section from Co "M", adding one 81 mm squad, Lt Falconiere and one rifle platoon from Co "L". Patrol lead by Lt Megrail, composed of 2 men Co "M", 4 men Co "L", Lt Anderson and 2 men Hq Co travelled in vicinity of El Hafey to cut phone wires. Enroute a German patrol of 1 officer, 1 Sgt, and 3 men mounted on a large motorcycle, with sidecar, was encountered and captured. Two Germans were wounded one of whom was the officer, who later died in the hospital in Gafsa. Prisoners were escorted to Feriana where they were interrogated by Bn Intelligence section, (Copy of results attached), and later turned over to French authorities for internment. Dec. 27th - Usual camp duties at Feriana. Chaplain Chase left on DS at 1400 for Constantine to visit hospital and obtain PX supplies. Activity in vicinity of Gafsa outpost. French and American troops in Gafsa were harassed by ME 109s twice during the day, doing no damage to American troops. At 1000 hrs our outlying outpost in the vicinity of El Hafey sighted a German column of 1 armored car and 7 motorcycles moving west towards our positions. Waiting till the column was in range of 200 yards our outpost opened fire, knocking out 1 armored car, and two motorcycles, and killing at least 10 men. The remainder of the German troops, after dismounting and fighting on foot for a few minutes, retreated in the face of vigorous assault put up by Lt Falconiere's outpost. Our outpost held its position until later it sighted a column of 4 German tanks and several motorcycles. Realizing that only riflemen could not combat tanks, the outpost fell back to a demolition trap, on the road from El Guettar to Gabbes. The Bn Anti-Tank platoon was moved to El Guettar to lay in waiting for the tank column, which never appeared. Night patrols were sent out, and have definitely located the enemy positions. Night patrols also made reconnaissance for prospective positions. Dec. 28th - Usual camp duties at Feriana. Thelepte airport bombed at 0830 by one JU-88, that dropped two bombs; no ostensible damage. Bn S-6 to Col Raff's office at 1400 to confer with American General. Enemy reinforcements reported by Bn S-3 beyond Gafsa at 1???. Murphy on reconnaissance at 1300 returned at 1800. Dec. 29th - Air alarm at 0450, two patrols sent out 0930 to investigate Arab village and look for two enemy gliders that were reported in vicinity. Dec. 30th - Patrols at outpost east of Gafsa met enemy and withdrew at 1300. Ammunition and Pioneer section headquarters returned from Gafsa at 1530. Enemy parachutists reported in vicinity at 1830. Dec. 31st - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-1 left for Algiers at 0900 Co "I", arrived at Feriana by motor convoy at 1430. Jan. 1st - Usual camp duties by personnel. Co "L" alerted. Jan. 2nd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Unidentified plane strafed camp area at 0745. Bn S-2 returned from mission to Oran at 1340. Jan, 3rd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Companies Hqrs, "L" and "M" alerted for possible move at 1130. Bn S-3 returned from Gafsa at 1300. Jan. 4th - Twelve German planes bombed Thelepte airport dropped about 20 bombs - 1 fighter destroyed and 1 bomber slightly damaged. 1 man badly wounded and another slightly wounded. Our fighter shot down 1 German fighter and 1 bomber and left one with motor burning. Usual camp duties by personnel. Jan. 5th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Bn S-1 and Bn S-4 returned from missions at 2230. 1sts Drier and McLaughlin promoted to the rank of Capt. Jan. 6th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Jan. 7th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Jan. 8th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Co commanders meeting at 0900 at S-6 quarters. Bn S-6 and Sgt Pokorny left at 1015 for Gafsa. Bn alerted at 1100 possible move. Co "L" moved to Gafsa by truck at 1115, air alarm at 1620. Bn S-6 returned from Gafsa at 1635. Camp area visited by 3 colonels from General's Hq. Jan. 9th - An air alarm at 0835. Bn S-6 left for Gafsa at 1015. 2nd Bn AT Pltn moved to Gafsa. Co "I" left at 1815 for Gafsa. Bn S-6 returned from Gafsa at 1700. Jan. 10th - Bn Intelligence men returned from Gafsa 0100. Air Alarm at 0730. Bn S-3 left for Gafsa at 1030. Bn S-6 left on reconnaissance to Gafsa at 1400. Bn S-4 and asst S-4 left for Constantine at 1430. Recreation center for troops opened in Feriana by Chaplain Chase. One 81mm section Co "M" returned from Gafsa at 1715. Jan. 11th - Usual camp duties by personnel. 5 gliders reported 12 miles north of Kasserine. Jan. 12th - Communication Plt left for Gafsa at 0500 Lt Murphy in charge. Col Bowen returned from recon to Gafsa at 0930. Bn S-4 returned from Gafsa at 0930. Bn S-1 left for Gafsa (Recon) at 0900. Air attack at 1430 and again at 1445. Bn S-1 returned from Gafsa at 1930. Jan. 13th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Air alarm at 1830 - Airport bombed. Jan. 14th - Air alarm at 0745. Bn alerted for move at 1130. Bn S-6 and Pvt Wm M Harris left for Gafsa at 1200. Bn left bivouac area Feriana by vehicle at 2200. Order of convoy: Hq Co, Co "K", and Co "M" Strength of Co's Hq Co 68 EM 5 off 53 EM atchd Co "K" 188 EM 6 off 3 EM atchd Co "M" 179 EM 6 off Arrived at Gafsa at 0300 Jan 15 43. Jan. 15th - Spent day in cleaning and preparing billets in French garrison. Bn S-6 called Co Comdrs meeting for 1900. Col Raff arrived in CP at 1400. Co "K", Co "I", and parts of Co "M" dug in position in vicinity Sened and El Guettar. Enemy activity at outposts at Sened resulted in 8 EM dead, 6 EM wounded, and 2 EM and 2 officers (Lts Wick and Norwood) missing - believed to have been captured. Mission sent out to lay mines. Jan. 16th - Air alarm at 0925. Unit comdrs meeting at 1030. Enemy tanks (15) followed by infantry reported at 1120 moving north at Sened. Col Raff called for air support at 1127. Contradictory reports received and patrols sent out but weren't able to establish the fact of any enemy column. Air mission flew over Gafsa at 1500 saw nothing. Bn S-3 left on recon at 1545. Lt Anderson and a squad of Ammo & Pioneer men went out to investigate our mine fields and discovered German mines and booby traps placed among our mines. Bn S-3 returned to CP at 1940. "K" Co patrol under Sgt Russell reported in to CP at 1650 reporting no activity. Sgt Szerkawicz patrol (Co "K") reported in to CP at 2120 reporting having seen an enemy outpost and having heard vehicles - thought to be motorcycles. Other units moved in vicinity during the night. Btry "B", 701st TD, 692nd AA, 213th CA, Btry's "B" & "D". Strength report 16/l/43 Hq Co 3rd Bn 123 EM - 10 officers Atchd 141 EM - 10 officers Company "I" 164 EM - 5 officers Company "K" 194 EM - 6 officers " "L" 203 EM - 7 officers " "M" 187 EM - 6 officers 701st TD 194 EM - 6 officers 692nd CA 67 EM - 5 officers 213th CA 350 EM - 10 officers 5th FA 120 EM - 4 officers Jan. 17th - Air alarm at 0910. "L" Co. reports having shot down one ME-109 at 1122. General Porter in CP at 1415; left at 1615. Bn left for Sened at 1430. Units at Sened and El Guettar relieved by French with the exception of the 2nd Bn, 26th Inf, Anti-Tank platoon under Lt Smith and one platoon of 692nd CA. All movements being made under the cover of night. Enemy prisoner taken by Co "L" from the plane that was shot down and brought to CP at 1450 for questioning and sent back to French Hq at Feriana at 1620. Btry "D" 5th FA moved into positions at Gafsa at 1155 . Lt Roosevelt and 4 EM of the 33rd FA came in vicinity to make a reconnaissance. Patrols sent out an usual in vicinity of Sened and El Guettar. Co "K"patrol under Sgt Timian left at 2000 to patrol from outpost at El Guettar; patrol returned at 0100 18/1/43 reporting armored vehicle, 50 men and machine guns employed along road and up into the hills. Jan. 18th - Air alarm at 1000. Bn S-6, S-3 and Lt Roosevelt left CP at 1007 on reconnaissance. Col Raff held unit comdrs meeting at 1030 and called meeting of all communications officers for 1400. Col Raff left CP at 1045 to inspect gun positions - returned at 1230. Air Corps officers in CP at 1130. Col Butler and staff officers (1st Engrs) in CP at 1135 - left on reconnaissance at 1240. Bn S-5 returned from recon. at 1540. 2nd Bn 26th Inf, in CP at 1430. Col Raff meeting at 1800. S/Sgt Shine (Sgt Major) and group who remained at Feriana rejoined Bn at Gafsa at 2210. Jan. 19th - Air alarm at 0955. One enemy plane reported shot down by AA and small arms at 1000. Remainder of "D" Co patrol left with Sgt Timian at 2000 - 17/1/43 returned at 2330 verifying the report of Sgt Timian. Col Raff left by plane for Feriana rejoined Bn at Gafsa at 2210. Jan. 20th - Usual camp duties by personnel. Pvt Whek (Int Section) with Pvt Jarnigan (Jeep driver) and Pvt Jaworski (Comm Platoon) left at 2000 to establish a CP at Sened. Intelligence section went to Sened to help evacuate troops - returned to base at Gafsa at 0230 - 21/1/43. One company of 19th Engineers joined us at 2300 (185 EM & 5 officers). Jan. 21st - Enemy plane reported landed at Sened at 0945. Three of six Air Corps men whose B-26 was forced to land in vicinity of Gabes and who have been on the road towards friendly lines for over a week reported into Col Bowen at 0930. Capt Bowers comdg Co "F" in CP at 1030. Unit comdrs meeting at 1030. At 1600 Lt Col Bowen, Capt Carvey, Roworth (British) Lt Root and Sgt Hinton were presented with the Croix de Guerre by the French. Part of Bn billetted in Gafsa (Hq Co "M" Co moved at 1850 to bivouac areas on the outskirts of the city. CP established at 1930 distance by vehicle 3 miles. Air alarm at 2115. The story of the 3 men in plane mentioned above is as follows: Flew near Gabes with mission of bombing a railroad bridge. Dropped their bombs and, as they pulled away from target, both motors quit. They crash landed near Sebkret Mansour without being observed. They started to hike toward Gafsa and were captured by 6 Italians, a German and an Arab. The German and the Arab placed them in the rear of a small car after hastily searching them and started to take them back to Gabes. The German had only taken the officers side arms from him. The other two had shoulder holsters which the German did not touch. As they drove along, the American flyers hit the German over the head, shot the Arab, wrecked the car and escaped, they then made their way across the mountains to Sakket and then to Bou Hamran where they were hailed by an enemy patrol. They split into 2 groups of 3 and continued. The three were interviewed by this Hq and finally made their way to Gafsa. Jan. 22nd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Mission now changed to defend Gafsa. Hq Co moved back one mile by vehicle inside the road blocks at 1630. Positions dug in by 2000 hour. Jan. 23rd - Usual camp duties by personnel. Pvts Whel, Jaworski and Jernigan and three French soldiers returned at 0100 from outpost at Sened. Two enemy trucks entered Sened at daybreak 1/22/43 approximately 30 men - Machine gun