u'.,'i - tank · pdf filesection iii - report after action a.gainst enemy 1 march,...

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Page 1: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

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1 Tranalldtted herewith After Action ~rt of the 817th Tank Destroyer Battalion for tlw mnth of March 1945

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j~7j~ CHARLD T CIWIDKIL

1st Lt 811th T D En Adjutant

2 Inclbullbull Ater Mtion Rpt for Kth of March Bettalion Unit Journal

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HEADQUARTERS 8l7th TANK DESTIDYER BlTlALION SECRET

APO 230 USbull 1HIIY Autha ml-rrr-co s I 1 jpril 1945 Date I 1 Apr 19J6 I

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SUBJ~T rleport After Action Against amp1emy

lti The Adjutant General U S Army washington D C

lllidJUGH CoIl1Jlllndil16 General III Corps ARgt 303 li S ArlV)

Section I --- Authority Section II -- Introduction Section III -- Report After Action Against m~ Section IV --- Annexes

ANN~ 1 Administrative 5l7th T D Bn 2 Overlay Operations o17th T D En 3 Over~ Intelligence b17th T D Bn

SECTION I - AUTillRITY

In compliance with par 10 AR 345-105 this report by the 8l7th Tank~PU- troyer Battalion 1 Mamprch 1945 to 3llamparch 1945 is Slbmittea--- shy

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SECTION II - mTIDDUCTION

1 Command I lliring the time covered by the report the 8l7th Tank Desshytroyer Battalion operated under the following Headquarters and Commanders

a First United States Army - - - - - Lt Gen C H Hodges b III Corps - - - - - - - - - - - - Maj Gen John Milliken

Maj Gen Van Jleet 400th FA Group - - - - - - - - Gol Norman 14th cavalry Group - - - - - - - Col Smith 40lst FA Group - - - - - - - - Col Dunn 8th Tank Destroyer Group - - - - Col Larter

c 617th Tank Destroyer Battalion - - Lt Col W H Bardes

2 Compostion of b17th Tank Destroyer Battalion

a Organic Commanders

Headquarter s Company Capt itilliam J Edgar A1 Company Capt lbward II Vogel-B Company Capt Jom T Omenhiser

1st Lt John J McPhillips

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Organic COMlWmERS

C ColllpamplV Capt ~bert L KcKenzie 1st Lt Balph lI k)mann 1st Lt Rhondal L Blrton

Reconnaissance Company Capt Robert u Sternfels

3 This operation report covers the combat action of the 817th Tank Destroyer Battalion during the period since the last report which_s su1xnitted as of 282400 FebruaryJ 1945

The following maps were used in ~8 operations

Central lbrope llOOJOOO shy

Germany 125000 shy

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SECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION AGAINST ENEMY

1 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for forthcoming action on indirect fire missions

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS -shy

Battalion bullbullbullbull bull 972254 Company A bullbullbull bull bullbull 070294 Company B bullbullbullbull bull bullbull 051291 Company C bullbull bull bullbull 052308

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 11 missions of barrassing fire of 546 rds HE (NO) and one mission for registration of b rds

COMPANY -B -- Fired 11 missions of harrassing fire of 558 rds HE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 20 rds

OOMPANY C - Iired 14 missions of interdiction for a total of 504 rds NE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 24 rds

RlOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - First platoon continued to lay and repair teleshyphone wire Second platoon furnished euroJlard for Battalion OP maintained and repaired roads

3 aHillY ACTIVITY

meroy artiLlery received in the Battalion sector was negligible during this period with no enemy air activity reported

2 w-rch 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b COMMAND POST LOCATIONS

Battalion rear CP moved forward to present position (972254) otherwise no change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 4 missions of harrassing fire of 199 rds HE (NC) 1 mission close support of 12 rds HE (NC) and 1 mission registration of 8 rds for a total of 219 rds

SECRET

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OOIlPANY -B- - Fired 5 missions of barrassing fire of 208 rds HE (NC) and 2 missions TOT of 12 rds for a total of 220 rds

OOMPANY -C- - Fired 6 lIissions of interdiction fire of 223 rds HE (NC) and 3 missions of neutralisation fire of b1 rda for a total of 264 rdsshy

RJiiCX)NNAISSJNCE PLAlOONS - First Platoon continued to lay and repair wire Second Platoon furnished guard for Battalion QP IllLiDtaiDed aDd repaired roads

3 )HliIlY ACTDITI

DIlring this period it _s relat1TeLy cp1et in all three Company sectors with some 8IIIIll arms tire being received in the viciDi ty of GDINICH (F 3049) No casualties were inflicted on our troops

rshy

3 Jlarch 1945

1 SllU1TIO)h

a Believed of duty with 408th FJ Group and attached to the 14th 0ILvaJry Group sattalion ved fro vic1Dity of 972254 to TlciDity of IDICH (123357) aDd assellbled Later ill the da7 the 14th 0ILftlry Group received an order to begin relief of the First lDfantry D1Tls1on The Battalion EVed to the Vic1Div of lI)CItCIBCHDI (229447) oles1Dg its nn laoation at 1930 hours Battalion rear _Ted to IDICH (123357) cloBiDI at 1845 hours

b OOVMA)1D POST LOCJTIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229441 CoJlPlLD1 J bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229wa Co~B bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 2314~ CoapeD7 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 168375

2 OPKRATJONSa

CXgtMPAIY -J- -- IIDftCl tlOll Ylo of SOIlllDT to -Tlo of (llB364) and ved aga1Jl to no of lI)OllCIBCImI (2294b8) closing ill its nell location at 2030 bour PJau are beiDg ade to fire iDd1rect from nc of PDlGSHElK (26$452)

Q))IPAIY -B- - IIDftCl trcMa rio of SClDlID (05129l) to Tio of (1053liO) aDd ved ap1D to Tic of NOiflllICH (23llj)O) clOa1Dg in its DeW location at 1930 hours QollpalV will upport the 18th Qavalr7 Squadron in it maon to bDld left tlaiak of liDe along the un CampDal

CXgtIIPAIY -0- - )IoTed fro nc of lOS2308) to ne of sonmiddot (16831S) 010eshy1Damp 1D 1ta po81tion at 0630 hDun Qo~ w1ll supptrt tM 32Dcl CampwJry 8qaadron 1D ita aiaaioD to protect tba nght flank of l1De alona tM Bampft CampDal

IfaWIIATIJ8l)I01t PJl1O(IIS - l1nt plamptooa _nd w11ib -B- apau aDd 11111 -pport the 181ib QaYalrr 4ron 111 It Ill_on to bUcl len tlaak of ERn CampDIl SeooDd plamptoon _Ted with CD~ 0 to Tic of SOLImiddotg (168375) 8Ad bat later Eftd to Battalion present looat1OD at- (229447) It is DdW held in NarYe prepared to nooJInottar on callbull

bull

3 ~lAC ACTIVITY

During this period the enemy was observed digging entrenctments in the vicinity of LIBLAR (r 3546) These were taken under fire and quickly dispersed with several casualties being Lnlicted Enemy mortar fire was very J1ght during the p8liod

4 )larch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion CP remllined in position

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS

Bat~on bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229447 Company A bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450Company B bullbullbullbull middot bull 302491 Company C bullbullbullbull middot bull 315434

2 OPUATIONS

OOMPANY 111 -- Moved two platoons (8 guns) into indirect firing Positions in the Vicini ty of PINGSHEnl (208452) Fired 18 rounds for registration One platoon is held in reserve and was moved to NORVliJICH (331459) tor its road net

OOMPANY B -- amp-1 moved to HElLERlDFE (285474) where it is in direct fire positions and is controlling the to1lIl fUled with hostile ciVilians amp-2 moved to DI~HEllt (310478) where it is in direct fire positions and supports Troop C of the ltlth cavalry Squadron in its control of the town amp-3 and Company CP moved to GYMNICH where the platoon is in direct fire positions and controls the south third of the t01lD while A amp B Troops of the ltlth cavalry Squadron controls the rest of the town filled with hosshytile ciVilians B-3 caught an enemy patrol trying to infiltrate through our lines and killed one wounded one and cap1ured three No casualties were suffered by B-3 The prisoners were turned over to Dedoy mue

( COMPANY cn - Company moved with 0-1 and C-3 to AHtml (JlSlt34) where the platoons are in direct fire positions C-2 is in direct file positions in vic of hamptiUG (288453) Compa~ supports the 32nd cavalrY Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Cavalry Squadron prepared to support them on call Second Platoon held in reserve by this unit prepared to meet any emergency

3 ENDlY ACTIVITY

One eneIllyen patrol attempted to intiltrate our lines in the vic of GIMNICH (F 3049) at 20)0 hours 3 March This patrol was intercepted by one of our security outposts In the resulting action one of the Germans _s killed and three taken prisoner one of vmch was wounded Upon interrogashytion one of tne prisoners who was Polish stated that their missions was to gather information also that there was about a half a company holding the town in the general area across the canal Northeast of GDmICH He

Smiddot C R I T

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also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

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COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 2: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

itr J ~lth rl~-middotJ rJ ~L L3c~ 11 t~r 6~ticn _ inst lI1e(~~middot

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Incl5 nc

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)1 - lel~

HEADQUARTERS 8l7th TANK DESTIDYER BlTlALION SECRET

APO 230 USbull 1HIIY Autha ml-rrr-co s I 1 jpril 1945 Date I 1 Apr 19J6 I

Initl

SUBJ~T rleport After Action Against amp1emy

lti The Adjutant General U S Army washington D C

lllidJUGH CoIl1Jlllndil16 General III Corps ARgt 303 li S ArlV)

Section I --- Authority Section II -- Introduction Section III -- Report After Action Against m~ Section IV --- Annexes

ANN~ 1 Administrative 5l7th T D Bn 2 Overlay Operations o17th T D En 3 Over~ Intelligence b17th T D Bn

SECTION I - AUTillRITY

In compliance with par 10 AR 345-105 this report by the 8l7th Tank~PU- troyer Battalion 1 Mamprch 1945 to 3llamparch 1945 is Slbmittea--- shy

- -------- --

SECTION II - mTIDDUCTION

1 Command I lliring the time covered by the report the 8l7th Tank Desshytroyer Battalion operated under the following Headquarters and Commanders

a First United States Army - - - - - Lt Gen C H Hodges b III Corps - - - - - - - - - - - - Maj Gen John Milliken

Maj Gen Van Jleet 400th FA Group - - - - - - - - Gol Norman 14th cavalry Group - - - - - - - Col Smith 40lst FA Group - - - - - - - - Col Dunn 8th Tank Destroyer Group - - - - Col Larter

c 617th Tank Destroyer Battalion - - Lt Col W H Bardes

2 Compostion of b17th Tank Destroyer Battalion

a Organic Commanders

Headquarter s Company Capt itilliam J Edgar A1 Company Capt lbward II Vogel-B Company Capt Jom T Omenhiser

1st Lt John J McPhillips

to - 4 -I ~-f ~~1 ~

l ~~~

L

Organic COMlWmERS

C ColllpamplV Capt ~bert L KcKenzie 1st Lt Balph lI k)mann 1st Lt Rhondal L Blrton

Reconnaissance Company Capt Robert u Sternfels

3 This operation report covers the combat action of the 817th Tank Destroyer Battalion during the period since the last report which_s su1xnitted as of 282400 FebruaryJ 1945

The following maps were used in ~8 operations

Central lbrope llOOJOOO shy

Germany 125000 shy

------

SECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION AGAINST ENEMY

1 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for forthcoming action on indirect fire missions

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS -shy

Battalion bullbullbullbull bull 972254 Company A bullbullbull bull bullbull 070294 Company B bullbullbullbull bull bullbull 051291 Company C bullbull bull bullbull 052308

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 11 missions of barrassing fire of 546 rds HE (NO) and one mission for registration of b rds

COMPANY -B -- Fired 11 missions of harrassing fire of 558 rds HE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 20 rds

OOMPANY C - Iired 14 missions of interdiction for a total of 504 rds NE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 24 rds

RlOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - First platoon continued to lay and repair teleshyphone wire Second platoon furnished euroJlard for Battalion OP maintained and repaired roads

3 aHillY ACTIVITY

meroy artiLlery received in the Battalion sector was negligible during this period with no enemy air activity reported

2 w-rch 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b COMMAND POST LOCATIONS

Battalion rear CP moved forward to present position (972254) otherwise no change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 4 missions of harrassing fire of 199 rds HE (NC) 1 mission close support of 12 rds HE (NC) and 1 mission registration of 8 rds for a total of 219 rds

SECRET

-~-~Io

OOIlPANY -B- - Fired 5 missions of barrassing fire of 208 rds HE (NC) and 2 missions TOT of 12 rds for a total of 220 rds

OOMPANY -C- - Fired 6 lIissions of interdiction fire of 223 rds HE (NC) and 3 missions of neutralisation fire of b1 rda for a total of 264 rdsshy

RJiiCX)NNAISSJNCE PLAlOONS - First Platoon continued to lay and repair wire Second Platoon furnished guard for Battalion QP IllLiDtaiDed aDd repaired roads

3 )HliIlY ACTDITI

DIlring this period it _s relat1TeLy cp1et in all three Company sectors with some 8IIIIll arms tire being received in the viciDi ty of GDINICH (F 3049) No casualties were inflicted on our troops

rshy

3 Jlarch 1945

1 SllU1TIO)h

a Believed of duty with 408th FJ Group and attached to the 14th 0ILvaJry Group sattalion ved fro vic1Dity of 972254 to TlciDity of IDICH (123357) aDd assellbled Later ill the da7 the 14th 0ILftlry Group received an order to begin relief of the First lDfantry D1Tls1on The Battalion EVed to the Vic1Div of lI)CItCIBCHDI (229447) oles1Dg its nn laoation at 1930 hours Battalion rear _Ted to IDICH (123357) cloBiDI at 1845 hours

b OOVMA)1D POST LOCJTIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229441 CoJlPlLD1 J bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229wa Co~B bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 2314~ CoapeD7 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 168375

2 OPKRATJONSa

CXgtMPAIY -J- -- IIDftCl tlOll Ylo of SOIlllDT to -Tlo of (llB364) and ved aga1Jl to no of lI)OllCIBCImI (2294b8) closing ill its nell location at 2030 bour PJau are beiDg ade to fire iDd1rect from nc of PDlGSHElK (26$452)

Q))IPAIY -B- - IIDftCl trcMa rio of SClDlID (05129l) to Tio of (1053liO) aDd ved ap1D to Tic of NOiflllICH (23llj)O) clOa1Dg in its DeW location at 1930 hours QollpalV will upport the 18th Qavalr7 Squadron in it maon to bDld left tlaiak of liDe along the un CampDal

CXgtIIPAIY -0- - )IoTed fro nc of lOS2308) to ne of sonmiddot (16831S) 010eshy1Damp 1D 1ta po81tion at 0630 hDun Qo~ w1ll supptrt tM 32Dcl CampwJry 8qaadron 1D ita aiaaioD to protect tba nght flank of l1De alona tM Bampft CampDal

IfaWIIATIJ8l)I01t PJl1O(IIS - l1nt plamptooa _nd w11ib -B- apau aDd 11111 -pport the 181ib QaYalrr 4ron 111 It Ill_on to bUcl len tlaak of ERn CampDIl SeooDd plamptoon _Ted with CD~ 0 to Tic of SOLImiddotg (168375) 8Ad bat later Eftd to Battalion present looat1OD at- (229447) It is DdW held in NarYe prepared to nooJInottar on callbull

bull

3 ~lAC ACTIVITY

During this period the enemy was observed digging entrenctments in the vicinity of LIBLAR (r 3546) These were taken under fire and quickly dispersed with several casualties being Lnlicted Enemy mortar fire was very J1ght during the p8liod

4 )larch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion CP remllined in position

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS

Bat~on bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229447 Company A bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450Company B bullbullbullbull middot bull 302491 Company C bullbullbullbull middot bull 315434

2 OPUATIONS

OOMPANY 111 -- Moved two platoons (8 guns) into indirect firing Positions in the Vicini ty of PINGSHEnl (208452) Fired 18 rounds for registration One platoon is held in reserve and was moved to NORVliJICH (331459) tor its road net

OOMPANY B -- amp-1 moved to HElLERlDFE (285474) where it is in direct fire positions and is controlling the to1lIl fUled with hostile ciVilians amp-2 moved to DI~HEllt (310478) where it is in direct fire positions and supports Troop C of the ltlth cavalry Squadron in its control of the town amp-3 and Company CP moved to GYMNICH where the platoon is in direct fire positions and controls the south third of the t01lD while A amp B Troops of the ltlth cavalry Squadron controls the rest of the town filled with hosshytile ciVilians B-3 caught an enemy patrol trying to infiltrate through our lines and killed one wounded one and cap1ured three No casualties were suffered by B-3 The prisoners were turned over to Dedoy mue

( COMPANY cn - Company moved with 0-1 and C-3 to AHtml (JlSlt34) where the platoons are in direct fire positions C-2 is in direct file positions in vic of hamptiUG (288453) Compa~ supports the 32nd cavalrY Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Cavalry Squadron prepared to support them on call Second Platoon held in reserve by this unit prepared to meet any emergency

3 ENDlY ACTIVITY

One eneIllyen patrol attempted to intiltrate our lines in the vic of GIMNICH (F 3049) at 20)0 hours 3 March This patrol was intercepted by one of our security outposts In the resulting action one of the Germans _s killed and three taken prisoner one of vmch was wounded Upon interrogashytion one of tne prisoners who was Polish stated that their missions was to gather information also that there was about a half a company holding the town in the general area across the canal Northeast of GDmICH He

Smiddot C R I T

T

also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

~-

~I

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 3: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

)1 - lel~

HEADQUARTERS 8l7th TANK DESTIDYER BlTlALION SECRET

APO 230 USbull 1HIIY Autha ml-rrr-co s I 1 jpril 1945 Date I 1 Apr 19J6 I

Initl

SUBJ~T rleport After Action Against amp1emy

lti The Adjutant General U S Army washington D C

lllidJUGH CoIl1Jlllndil16 General III Corps ARgt 303 li S ArlV)

Section I --- Authority Section II -- Introduction Section III -- Report After Action Against m~ Section IV --- Annexes

ANN~ 1 Administrative 5l7th T D Bn 2 Overlay Operations o17th T D En 3 Over~ Intelligence b17th T D Bn

SECTION I - AUTillRITY

In compliance with par 10 AR 345-105 this report by the 8l7th Tank~PU- troyer Battalion 1 Mamprch 1945 to 3llamparch 1945 is Slbmittea--- shy

- -------- --

SECTION II - mTIDDUCTION

1 Command I lliring the time covered by the report the 8l7th Tank Desshytroyer Battalion operated under the following Headquarters and Commanders

a First United States Army - - - - - Lt Gen C H Hodges b III Corps - - - - - - - - - - - - Maj Gen John Milliken

Maj Gen Van Jleet 400th FA Group - - - - - - - - Gol Norman 14th cavalry Group - - - - - - - Col Smith 40lst FA Group - - - - - - - - Col Dunn 8th Tank Destroyer Group - - - - Col Larter

c 617th Tank Destroyer Battalion - - Lt Col W H Bardes

2 Compostion of b17th Tank Destroyer Battalion

a Organic Commanders

Headquarter s Company Capt itilliam J Edgar A1 Company Capt lbward II Vogel-B Company Capt Jom T Omenhiser

1st Lt John J McPhillips

to - 4 -I ~-f ~~1 ~

l ~~~

L

Organic COMlWmERS

C ColllpamplV Capt ~bert L KcKenzie 1st Lt Balph lI k)mann 1st Lt Rhondal L Blrton

Reconnaissance Company Capt Robert u Sternfels

3 This operation report covers the combat action of the 817th Tank Destroyer Battalion during the period since the last report which_s su1xnitted as of 282400 FebruaryJ 1945

The following maps were used in ~8 operations

Central lbrope llOOJOOO shy

Germany 125000 shy

------

SECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION AGAINST ENEMY

1 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for forthcoming action on indirect fire missions

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS -shy

Battalion bullbullbullbull bull 972254 Company A bullbullbull bull bullbull 070294 Company B bullbullbullbull bull bullbull 051291 Company C bullbull bull bullbull 052308

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 11 missions of barrassing fire of 546 rds HE (NO) and one mission for registration of b rds

COMPANY -B -- Fired 11 missions of harrassing fire of 558 rds HE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 20 rds

OOMPANY C - Iired 14 missions of interdiction for a total of 504 rds NE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 24 rds

RlOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - First platoon continued to lay and repair teleshyphone wire Second platoon furnished euroJlard for Battalion OP maintained and repaired roads

3 aHillY ACTIVITY

meroy artiLlery received in the Battalion sector was negligible during this period with no enemy air activity reported

2 w-rch 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b COMMAND POST LOCATIONS

Battalion rear CP moved forward to present position (972254) otherwise no change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 4 missions of harrassing fire of 199 rds HE (NC) 1 mission close support of 12 rds HE (NC) and 1 mission registration of 8 rds for a total of 219 rds

SECRET

-~-~Io

OOIlPANY -B- - Fired 5 missions of barrassing fire of 208 rds HE (NC) and 2 missions TOT of 12 rds for a total of 220 rds

OOMPANY -C- - Fired 6 lIissions of interdiction fire of 223 rds HE (NC) and 3 missions of neutralisation fire of b1 rda for a total of 264 rdsshy

RJiiCX)NNAISSJNCE PLAlOONS - First Platoon continued to lay and repair wire Second Platoon furnished guard for Battalion QP IllLiDtaiDed aDd repaired roads

3 )HliIlY ACTDITI

DIlring this period it _s relat1TeLy cp1et in all three Company sectors with some 8IIIIll arms tire being received in the viciDi ty of GDINICH (F 3049) No casualties were inflicted on our troops

rshy

3 Jlarch 1945

1 SllU1TIO)h

a Believed of duty with 408th FJ Group and attached to the 14th 0ILvaJry Group sattalion ved fro vic1Dity of 972254 to TlciDity of IDICH (123357) aDd assellbled Later ill the da7 the 14th 0ILftlry Group received an order to begin relief of the First lDfantry D1Tls1on The Battalion EVed to the Vic1Div of lI)CItCIBCHDI (229447) oles1Dg its nn laoation at 1930 hours Battalion rear _Ted to IDICH (123357) cloBiDI at 1845 hours

b OOVMA)1D POST LOCJTIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229441 CoJlPlLD1 J bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229wa Co~B bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 2314~ CoapeD7 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 168375

2 OPKRATJONSa

CXgtMPAIY -J- -- IIDftCl tlOll Ylo of SOIlllDT to -Tlo of (llB364) and ved aga1Jl to no of lI)OllCIBCImI (2294b8) closing ill its nell location at 2030 bour PJau are beiDg ade to fire iDd1rect from nc of PDlGSHElK (26$452)

Q))IPAIY -B- - IIDftCl trcMa rio of SClDlID (05129l) to Tio of (1053liO) aDd ved ap1D to Tic of NOiflllICH (23llj)O) clOa1Dg in its DeW location at 1930 hours QollpalV will upport the 18th Qavalr7 Squadron in it maon to bDld left tlaiak of liDe along the un CampDal

CXgtIIPAIY -0- - )IoTed fro nc of lOS2308) to ne of sonmiddot (16831S) 010eshy1Damp 1D 1ta po81tion at 0630 hDun Qo~ w1ll supptrt tM 32Dcl CampwJry 8qaadron 1D ita aiaaioD to protect tba nght flank of l1De alona tM Bampft CampDal

IfaWIIATIJ8l)I01t PJl1O(IIS - l1nt plamptooa _nd w11ib -B- apau aDd 11111 -pport the 181ib QaYalrr 4ron 111 It Ill_on to bUcl len tlaak of ERn CampDIl SeooDd plamptoon _Ted with CD~ 0 to Tic of SOLImiddotg (168375) 8Ad bat later Eftd to Battalion present looat1OD at- (229447) It is DdW held in NarYe prepared to nooJInottar on callbull

bull

3 ~lAC ACTIVITY

During this period the enemy was observed digging entrenctments in the vicinity of LIBLAR (r 3546) These were taken under fire and quickly dispersed with several casualties being Lnlicted Enemy mortar fire was very J1ght during the p8liod

4 )larch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion CP remllined in position

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS

Bat~on bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229447 Company A bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450Company B bullbullbullbull middot bull 302491 Company C bullbullbullbull middot bull 315434

2 OPUATIONS

OOMPANY 111 -- Moved two platoons (8 guns) into indirect firing Positions in the Vicini ty of PINGSHEnl (208452) Fired 18 rounds for registration One platoon is held in reserve and was moved to NORVliJICH (331459) tor its road net

OOMPANY B -- amp-1 moved to HElLERlDFE (285474) where it is in direct fire positions and is controlling the to1lIl fUled with hostile ciVilians amp-2 moved to DI~HEllt (310478) where it is in direct fire positions and supports Troop C of the ltlth cavalry Squadron in its control of the town amp-3 and Company CP moved to GYMNICH where the platoon is in direct fire positions and controls the south third of the t01lD while A amp B Troops of the ltlth cavalry Squadron controls the rest of the town filled with hosshytile ciVilians B-3 caught an enemy patrol trying to infiltrate through our lines and killed one wounded one and cap1ured three No casualties were suffered by B-3 The prisoners were turned over to Dedoy mue

( COMPANY cn - Company moved with 0-1 and C-3 to AHtml (JlSlt34) where the platoons are in direct fire positions C-2 is in direct file positions in vic of hamptiUG (288453) Compa~ supports the 32nd cavalrY Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Cavalry Squadron prepared to support them on call Second Platoon held in reserve by this unit prepared to meet any emergency

3 ENDlY ACTIVITY

One eneIllyen patrol attempted to intiltrate our lines in the vic of GIMNICH (F 3049) at 20)0 hours 3 March This patrol was intercepted by one of our security outposts In the resulting action one of the Germans _s killed and three taken prisoner one of vmch was wounded Upon interrogashytion one of tne prisoners who was Polish stated that their missions was to gather information also that there was about a half a company holding the town in the general area across the canal Northeast of GDmICH He

Smiddot C R I T

T

also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

~-

~I

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 4: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

l ~~~

L

Organic COMlWmERS

C ColllpamplV Capt ~bert L KcKenzie 1st Lt Balph lI k)mann 1st Lt Rhondal L Blrton

Reconnaissance Company Capt Robert u Sternfels

3 This operation report covers the combat action of the 817th Tank Destroyer Battalion during the period since the last report which_s su1xnitted as of 282400 FebruaryJ 1945

The following maps were used in ~8 operations

Central lbrope llOOJOOO shy

Germany 125000 shy

------

SECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION AGAINST ENEMY

1 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for forthcoming action on indirect fire missions

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS -shy

Battalion bullbullbullbull bull 972254 Company A bullbullbull bull bullbull 070294 Company B bullbullbullbull bull bullbull 051291 Company C bullbull bull bullbull 052308

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 11 missions of barrassing fire of 546 rds HE (NO) and one mission for registration of b rds

COMPANY -B -- Fired 11 missions of harrassing fire of 558 rds HE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 20 rds

OOMPANY C - Iired 14 missions of interdiction for a total of 504 rds NE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 24 rds

RlOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - First platoon continued to lay and repair teleshyphone wire Second platoon furnished euroJlard for Battalion OP maintained and repaired roads

3 aHillY ACTIVITY

meroy artiLlery received in the Battalion sector was negligible during this period with no enemy air activity reported

2 w-rch 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b COMMAND POST LOCATIONS

Battalion rear CP moved forward to present position (972254) otherwise no change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 4 missions of harrassing fire of 199 rds HE (NC) 1 mission close support of 12 rds HE (NC) and 1 mission registration of 8 rds for a total of 219 rds

SECRET

-~-~Io

OOIlPANY -B- - Fired 5 missions of barrassing fire of 208 rds HE (NC) and 2 missions TOT of 12 rds for a total of 220 rds

OOMPANY -C- - Fired 6 lIissions of interdiction fire of 223 rds HE (NC) and 3 missions of neutralisation fire of b1 rda for a total of 264 rdsshy

RJiiCX)NNAISSJNCE PLAlOONS - First Platoon continued to lay and repair wire Second Platoon furnished guard for Battalion QP IllLiDtaiDed aDd repaired roads

3 )HliIlY ACTDITI

DIlring this period it _s relat1TeLy cp1et in all three Company sectors with some 8IIIIll arms tire being received in the viciDi ty of GDINICH (F 3049) No casualties were inflicted on our troops

rshy

3 Jlarch 1945

1 SllU1TIO)h

a Believed of duty with 408th FJ Group and attached to the 14th 0ILvaJry Group sattalion ved fro vic1Dity of 972254 to TlciDity of IDICH (123357) aDd assellbled Later ill the da7 the 14th 0ILftlry Group received an order to begin relief of the First lDfantry D1Tls1on The Battalion EVed to the Vic1Div of lI)CItCIBCHDI (229447) oles1Dg its nn laoation at 1930 hours Battalion rear _Ted to IDICH (123357) cloBiDI at 1845 hours

b OOVMA)1D POST LOCJTIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229441 CoJlPlLD1 J bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229wa Co~B bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 2314~ CoapeD7 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 168375

2 OPKRATJONSa

CXgtMPAIY -J- -- IIDftCl tlOll Ylo of SOIlllDT to -Tlo of (llB364) and ved aga1Jl to no of lI)OllCIBCImI (2294b8) closing ill its nell location at 2030 bour PJau are beiDg ade to fire iDd1rect from nc of PDlGSHElK (26$452)

Q))IPAIY -B- - IIDftCl trcMa rio of SClDlID (05129l) to Tio of (1053liO) aDd ved ap1D to Tic of NOiflllICH (23llj)O) clOa1Dg in its DeW location at 1930 hours QollpalV will upport the 18th Qavalr7 Squadron in it maon to bDld left tlaiak of liDe along the un CampDal

CXgtIIPAIY -0- - )IoTed fro nc of lOS2308) to ne of sonmiddot (16831S) 010eshy1Damp 1D 1ta po81tion at 0630 hDun Qo~ w1ll supptrt tM 32Dcl CampwJry 8qaadron 1D ita aiaaioD to protect tba nght flank of l1De alona tM Bampft CampDal

IfaWIIATIJ8l)I01t PJl1O(IIS - l1nt plamptooa _nd w11ib -B- apau aDd 11111 -pport the 181ib QaYalrr 4ron 111 It Ill_on to bUcl len tlaak of ERn CampDIl SeooDd plamptoon _Ted with CD~ 0 to Tic of SOLImiddotg (168375) 8Ad bat later Eftd to Battalion present looat1OD at- (229447) It is DdW held in NarYe prepared to nooJInottar on callbull

bull

3 ~lAC ACTIVITY

During this period the enemy was observed digging entrenctments in the vicinity of LIBLAR (r 3546) These were taken under fire and quickly dispersed with several casualties being Lnlicted Enemy mortar fire was very J1ght during the p8liod

4 )larch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion CP remllined in position

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS

Bat~on bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229447 Company A bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450Company B bullbullbullbull middot bull 302491 Company C bullbullbullbull middot bull 315434

2 OPUATIONS

OOMPANY 111 -- Moved two platoons (8 guns) into indirect firing Positions in the Vicini ty of PINGSHEnl (208452) Fired 18 rounds for registration One platoon is held in reserve and was moved to NORVliJICH (331459) tor its road net

OOMPANY B -- amp-1 moved to HElLERlDFE (285474) where it is in direct fire positions and is controlling the to1lIl fUled with hostile ciVilians amp-2 moved to DI~HEllt (310478) where it is in direct fire positions and supports Troop C of the ltlth cavalry Squadron in its control of the town amp-3 and Company CP moved to GYMNICH where the platoon is in direct fire positions and controls the south third of the t01lD while A amp B Troops of the ltlth cavalry Squadron controls the rest of the town filled with hosshytile ciVilians B-3 caught an enemy patrol trying to infiltrate through our lines and killed one wounded one and cap1ured three No casualties were suffered by B-3 The prisoners were turned over to Dedoy mue

( COMPANY cn - Company moved with 0-1 and C-3 to AHtml (JlSlt34) where the platoons are in direct fire positions C-2 is in direct file positions in vic of hamptiUG (288453) Compa~ supports the 32nd cavalrY Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Cavalry Squadron prepared to support them on call Second Platoon held in reserve by this unit prepared to meet any emergency

3 ENDlY ACTIVITY

One eneIllyen patrol attempted to intiltrate our lines in the vic of GIMNICH (F 3049) at 20)0 hours 3 March This patrol was intercepted by one of our security outposts In the resulting action one of the Germans _s killed and three taken prisoner one of vmch was wounded Upon interrogashytion one of tne prisoners who was Polish stated that their missions was to gather information also that there was about a half a company holding the town in the general area across the canal Northeast of GDmICH He

Smiddot C R I T

T

also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

~-

~I

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 5: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

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SECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION AGAINST ENEMY

1 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for forthcoming action on indirect fire missions

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS -shy

Battalion bullbullbullbull bull 972254 Company A bullbullbull bull bullbull 070294 Company B bullbullbullbull bull bullbull 051291 Company C bullbull bull bullbull 052308

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 11 missions of barrassing fire of 546 rds HE (NO) and one mission for registration of b rds

COMPANY -B -- Fired 11 missions of harrassing fire of 558 rds HE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 20 rds

OOMPANY C - Iired 14 missions of interdiction for a total of 504 rds NE (NC) and one mission cOWlterbattery of 24 rds

RlOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - First platoon continued to lay and repair teleshyphone wire Second platoon furnished euroJlard for Battalion OP maintained and repaired roads

3 aHillY ACTIVITY

meroy artiLlery received in the Battalion sector was negligible during this period with no enemy air activity reported

2 w-rch 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b COMMAND POST LOCATIONS

Battalion rear CP moved forward to present position (972254) otherwise no change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Fired 4 missions of harrassing fire of 199 rds HE (NC) 1 mission close support of 12 rds HE (NC) and 1 mission registration of 8 rds for a total of 219 rds

SECRET

-~-~Io

OOIlPANY -B- - Fired 5 missions of barrassing fire of 208 rds HE (NC) and 2 missions TOT of 12 rds for a total of 220 rds

OOMPANY -C- - Fired 6 lIissions of interdiction fire of 223 rds HE (NC) and 3 missions of neutralisation fire of b1 rda for a total of 264 rdsshy

RJiiCX)NNAISSJNCE PLAlOONS - First Platoon continued to lay and repair wire Second Platoon furnished guard for Battalion QP IllLiDtaiDed aDd repaired roads

3 )HliIlY ACTDITI

DIlring this period it _s relat1TeLy cp1et in all three Company sectors with some 8IIIIll arms tire being received in the viciDi ty of GDINICH (F 3049) No casualties were inflicted on our troops

rshy

3 Jlarch 1945

1 SllU1TIO)h

a Believed of duty with 408th FJ Group and attached to the 14th 0ILvaJry Group sattalion ved fro vic1Dity of 972254 to TlciDity of IDICH (123357) aDd assellbled Later ill the da7 the 14th 0ILftlry Group received an order to begin relief of the First lDfantry D1Tls1on The Battalion EVed to the Vic1Div of lI)CItCIBCHDI (229447) oles1Dg its nn laoation at 1930 hours Battalion rear _Ted to IDICH (123357) cloBiDI at 1845 hours

b OOVMA)1D POST LOCJTIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229441 CoJlPlLD1 J bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229wa Co~B bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 2314~ CoapeD7 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 168375

2 OPKRATJONSa

CXgtMPAIY -J- -- IIDftCl tlOll Ylo of SOIlllDT to -Tlo of (llB364) and ved aga1Jl to no of lI)OllCIBCImI (2294b8) closing ill its nell location at 2030 bour PJau are beiDg ade to fire iDd1rect from nc of PDlGSHElK (26$452)

Q))IPAIY -B- - IIDftCl trcMa rio of SClDlID (05129l) to Tio of (1053liO) aDd ved ap1D to Tic of NOiflllICH (23llj)O) clOa1Dg in its DeW location at 1930 hours QollpalV will upport the 18th Qavalr7 Squadron in it maon to bDld left tlaiak of liDe along the un CampDal

CXgtIIPAIY -0- - )IoTed fro nc of lOS2308) to ne of sonmiddot (16831S) 010eshy1Damp 1D 1ta po81tion at 0630 hDun Qo~ w1ll supptrt tM 32Dcl CampwJry 8qaadron 1D ita aiaaioD to protect tba nght flank of l1De alona tM Bampft CampDal

IfaWIIATIJ8l)I01t PJl1O(IIS - l1nt plamptooa _nd w11ib -B- apau aDd 11111 -pport the 181ib QaYalrr 4ron 111 It Ill_on to bUcl len tlaak of ERn CampDIl SeooDd plamptoon _Ted with CD~ 0 to Tic of SOLImiddotg (168375) 8Ad bat later Eftd to Battalion present looat1OD at- (229447) It is DdW held in NarYe prepared to nooJInottar on callbull

bull

3 ~lAC ACTIVITY

During this period the enemy was observed digging entrenctments in the vicinity of LIBLAR (r 3546) These were taken under fire and quickly dispersed with several casualties being Lnlicted Enemy mortar fire was very J1ght during the p8liod

4 )larch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion CP remllined in position

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS

Bat~on bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229447 Company A bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450Company B bullbullbullbull middot bull 302491 Company C bullbullbullbull middot bull 315434

2 OPUATIONS

OOMPANY 111 -- Moved two platoons (8 guns) into indirect firing Positions in the Vicini ty of PINGSHEnl (208452) Fired 18 rounds for registration One platoon is held in reserve and was moved to NORVliJICH (331459) tor its road net

OOMPANY B -- amp-1 moved to HElLERlDFE (285474) where it is in direct fire positions and is controlling the to1lIl fUled with hostile ciVilians amp-2 moved to DI~HEllt (310478) where it is in direct fire positions and supports Troop C of the ltlth cavalry Squadron in its control of the town amp-3 and Company CP moved to GYMNICH where the platoon is in direct fire positions and controls the south third of the t01lD while A amp B Troops of the ltlth cavalry Squadron controls the rest of the town filled with hosshytile ciVilians B-3 caught an enemy patrol trying to infiltrate through our lines and killed one wounded one and cap1ured three No casualties were suffered by B-3 The prisoners were turned over to Dedoy mue

( COMPANY cn - Company moved with 0-1 and C-3 to AHtml (JlSlt34) where the platoons are in direct fire positions C-2 is in direct file positions in vic of hamptiUG (288453) Compa~ supports the 32nd cavalrY Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Cavalry Squadron prepared to support them on call Second Platoon held in reserve by this unit prepared to meet any emergency

3 ENDlY ACTIVITY

One eneIllyen patrol attempted to intiltrate our lines in the vic of GIMNICH (F 3049) at 20)0 hours 3 March This patrol was intercepted by one of our security outposts In the resulting action one of the Germans _s killed and three taken prisoner one of vmch was wounded Upon interrogashytion one of tne prisoners who was Polish stated that their missions was to gather information also that there was about a half a company holding the town in the general area across the canal Northeast of GDmICH He

Smiddot C R I T

T

also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

~-

~I

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 6: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

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OOIlPANY -B- - Fired 5 missions of barrassing fire of 208 rds HE (NC) and 2 missions TOT of 12 rds for a total of 220 rds

OOMPANY -C- - Fired 6 lIissions of interdiction fire of 223 rds HE (NC) and 3 missions of neutralisation fire of b1 rda for a total of 264 rdsshy

RJiiCX)NNAISSJNCE PLAlOONS - First Platoon continued to lay and repair wire Second Platoon furnished guard for Battalion QP IllLiDtaiDed aDd repaired roads

3 )HliIlY ACTDITI

DIlring this period it _s relat1TeLy cp1et in all three Company sectors with some 8IIIIll arms tire being received in the viciDi ty of GDINICH (F 3049) No casualties were inflicted on our troops

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3 Jlarch 1945

1 SllU1TIO)h

a Believed of duty with 408th FJ Group and attached to the 14th 0ILvaJry Group sattalion ved fro vic1Dity of 972254 to TlciDity of IDICH (123357) aDd assellbled Later ill the da7 the 14th 0ILftlry Group received an order to begin relief of the First lDfantry D1Tls1on The Battalion EVed to the Vic1Div of lI)CItCIBCHDI (229447) oles1Dg its nn laoation at 1930 hours Battalion rear _Ted to IDICH (123357) cloBiDI at 1845 hours

b OOVMA)1D POST LOCJTIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229441 CoJlPlLD1 J bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229wa Co~B bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 2314~ CoapeD7 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 168375

2 OPKRATJONSa

CXgtMPAIY -J- -- IIDftCl tlOll Ylo of SOIlllDT to -Tlo of (llB364) and ved aga1Jl to no of lI)OllCIBCImI (2294b8) closing ill its nell location at 2030 bour PJau are beiDg ade to fire iDd1rect from nc of PDlGSHElK (26$452)

Q))IPAIY -B- - IIDftCl trcMa rio of SClDlID (05129l) to Tio of (1053liO) aDd ved ap1D to Tic of NOiflllICH (23llj)O) clOa1Dg in its DeW location at 1930 hours QollpalV will upport the 18th Qavalr7 Squadron in it maon to bDld left tlaiak of liDe along the un CampDal

CXgtIIPAIY -0- - )IoTed fro nc of lOS2308) to ne of sonmiddot (16831S) 010eshy1Damp 1D 1ta po81tion at 0630 hDun Qo~ w1ll supptrt tM 32Dcl CampwJry 8qaadron 1D ita aiaaioD to protect tba nght flank of l1De alona tM Bampft CampDal

IfaWIIATIJ8l)I01t PJl1O(IIS - l1nt plamptooa _nd w11ib -B- apau aDd 11111 -pport the 181ib QaYalrr 4ron 111 It Ill_on to bUcl len tlaak of ERn CampDIl SeooDd plamptoon _Ted with CD~ 0 to Tic of SOLImiddotg (168375) 8Ad bat later Eftd to Battalion present looat1OD at- (229447) It is DdW held in NarYe prepared to nooJInottar on callbull

bull

3 ~lAC ACTIVITY

During this period the enemy was observed digging entrenctments in the vicinity of LIBLAR (r 3546) These were taken under fire and quickly dispersed with several casualties being Lnlicted Enemy mortar fire was very J1ght during the p8liod

4 )larch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion CP remllined in position

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS

Bat~on bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229447 Company A bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450Company B bullbullbullbull middot bull 302491 Company C bullbullbullbull middot bull 315434

2 OPUATIONS

OOMPANY 111 -- Moved two platoons (8 guns) into indirect firing Positions in the Vicini ty of PINGSHEnl (208452) Fired 18 rounds for registration One platoon is held in reserve and was moved to NORVliJICH (331459) tor its road net

OOMPANY B -- amp-1 moved to HElLERlDFE (285474) where it is in direct fire positions and is controlling the to1lIl fUled with hostile ciVilians amp-2 moved to DI~HEllt (310478) where it is in direct fire positions and supports Troop C of the ltlth cavalry Squadron in its control of the town amp-3 and Company CP moved to GYMNICH where the platoon is in direct fire positions and controls the south third of the t01lD while A amp B Troops of the ltlth cavalry Squadron controls the rest of the town filled with hosshytile ciVilians B-3 caught an enemy patrol trying to infiltrate through our lines and killed one wounded one and cap1ured three No casualties were suffered by B-3 The prisoners were turned over to Dedoy mue

( COMPANY cn - Company moved with 0-1 and C-3 to AHtml (JlSlt34) where the platoons are in direct fire positions C-2 is in direct file positions in vic of hamptiUG (288453) Compa~ supports the 32nd cavalrY Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Cavalry Squadron prepared to support them on call Second Platoon held in reserve by this unit prepared to meet any emergency

3 ENDlY ACTIVITY

One eneIllyen patrol attempted to intiltrate our lines in the vic of GIMNICH (F 3049) at 20)0 hours 3 March This patrol was intercepted by one of our security outposts In the resulting action one of the Germans _s killed and three taken prisoner one of vmch was wounded Upon interrogashytion one of tne prisoners who was Polish stated that their missions was to gather information also that there was about a half a company holding the town in the general area across the canal Northeast of GDmICH He

Smiddot C R I T

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also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

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COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

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u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

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3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

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position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

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OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

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S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 7: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

3 ~lAC ACTIVITY

During this period the enemy was observed digging entrenctments in the vicinity of LIBLAR (r 3546) These were taken under fire and quickly dispersed with several casualties being Lnlicted Enemy mortar fire was very J1ght during the p8liod

4 )larch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion CP remllined in position

b OOWUND POST LOCATIONS

Bat~on bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 229447 Company A bullbullbullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450Company B bullbullbullbull middot bull 302491 Company C bullbullbullbull middot bull 315434

2 OPUATIONS

OOMPANY 111 -- Moved two platoons (8 guns) into indirect firing Positions in the Vicini ty of PINGSHEnl (208452) Fired 18 rounds for registration One platoon is held in reserve and was moved to NORVliJICH (331459) tor its road net

OOMPANY B -- amp-1 moved to HElLERlDFE (285474) where it is in direct fire positions and is controlling the to1lIl fUled with hostile ciVilians amp-2 moved to DI~HEllt (310478) where it is in direct fire positions and supports Troop C of the ltlth cavalry Squadron in its control of the town amp-3 and Company CP moved to GYMNICH where the platoon is in direct fire positions and controls the south third of the t01lD while A amp B Troops of the ltlth cavalry Squadron controls the rest of the town filled with hosshytile ciVilians B-3 caught an enemy patrol trying to infiltrate through our lines and killed one wounded one and cap1ured three No casualties were suffered by B-3 The prisoners were turned over to Dedoy mue

( COMPANY cn - Company moved with 0-1 and C-3 to AHtml (JlSlt34) where the platoons are in direct fire positions C-2 is in direct file positions in vic of hamptiUG (288453) Compa~ supports the 32nd cavalrY Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Cavalry Squadron prepared to support them on call Second Platoon held in reserve by this unit prepared to meet any emergency

3 ENDlY ACTIVITY

One eneIllyen patrol attempted to intiltrate our lines in the vic of GIMNICH (F 3049) at 20)0 hours 3 March This patrol was intercepted by one of our security outposts In the resulting action one of the Germans _s killed and three taken prisoner one of vmch was wounded Upon interrogashytion one of tne prisoners who was Polish stated that their missions was to gather information also that there was about a half a company holding the town in the general area across the canal Northeast of GDmICH He

Smiddot C R I T

T

also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

~-

~I

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 8: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

T

also stated that at 1900 hours each night an enemy machine gun section sets up at the canal crossing between BRUGGEN (3250) and GDmICH and each IOOrning at clavbreak the section withdraws The pr19)ners were turned over to Decoy Blue for further questioning and disposition

5 Karch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a Battalion CP remained in position An ex-German 9)ldier was found among civilians of lDCHKIRCHEN (229441) and turned over to First Jrmy PW enc1osure

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull 229441 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 265450 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull 302491 Company C bull 351464

2 OPElUTIONS

COMPANY A - Fired four barrassing Ddssions totaling 40 rounds of shell HE (NC) Reserve platoon remained in position in NORVENICH (231459)

COMPANY B - Maintained and improved positions in KEILERIDFE (285474) DI~HEDi (318418) and GDmICH (302491) Corapmy supports 18th Cavalry Squadron

COMPANY C - Company Cp 0-3 and 0-2 lOOTed to LIBLJR (351464) 1Ibere they assisted in clearing the town of the enemy 0-2 fired 5 rds of APC to destroy one pillbox 0-1 mowd to 1IESSEK (38464) where it went into direct fire positions coverint the 9)uthem nank of the position

REQ)NNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- First platoon held in reserve by the 18th Gavshyalry Squadron to support them on call Second platoon held in reserve by Battalion prepared to reconnoiter on call

3 gi1lY ACTIVITY

ineDJiY mortar fire was limited to 20 rds falling in the to1m of GDOUCH ( F 302492) One 8 to 10 man 8IlEll1 patro~ operated in and east of GllINICH ate during the period

6 March 1945

1 SI1UATIO)I

a Battalion still in position and attached to the 14th ea alIy Group

b CP LOOl1IOIISamp

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

~-

~I

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 9: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

Battalion bullbull bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull 229447 Comp~ J bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull 26450 CompalV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3021amp91 Ooapazv- C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 3Sl464

2 OP~NS

OOMPAJY A - I1red two destruction missiona of 80 rda and one neutralshyizaUon mission of 18 rds to register 10 rds of HE aDd 3 rds of star Shell were fired Total rd fired were Hi (HC) - III and Star Shell shy3 Reserve platoon prepared to DIOT8 to GDlNICH (302491)

OOMPANY liB -- Maintained and improved defense of area Made preparashytions for future operations captured two enemy personnel who came from BmJOO~ (32302) to our lines to surrender Coapmy supports 18th Cavshyalry Squadron

OOWPANY C - Maintained and improved defense of area Fired 7 rds of HI and knocked out one machiDe gun emplacement and neutralized activity of enemy personnel

HEOOHNAISSANCI PLJIDONS - The first platoon moved with elements of the 18th CaWolry Squadron to Tic of IDLTmBlDICH 01551) prepared to jump off to South of east side of Canal Second Platoon prepared to move to mobile reserve in vicinity of GYMNICH (62491) prepared to assist Hen 1 if necessary

3 glIlY AOTIVITI

There was no contact with the enemy during the period During the afternoon about 150 people reported to be carrying rifles and packs infiltrated into KOTTINGm (F 3448) Between 2030 and 2230 a patrol in the KOfflNGEN area made no contact with the eneDY Patrol observed to-wn closely and saw no movement even toough a building _s observed blming During the early part of the night trucks were heard along the ~oom-11 BNICH road )luch civilian activity was noted during the dq Civilians entered BmJOOm in small groups from the east and from the woods vicinity

(F 315505) White nags were displayed in ldnoows of houses in KOTTINGm

7 March 1945

1 SInJJTION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS -- No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY All -- First and third platoons in vic of (266456) in indirect fire positions A-2 is in reserve in vic of ltmINICH (02491)

~-

~I

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 10: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

COMPANY B -- Continued to improve sitions in vic of GD4NICH (02491) B-1 moved to vic of D~HEl( (318478) with B-2 amp-3 remains in GYMNICH A total of 5 prisoners were captured by Company B in vic of B-2 and B-3

CO)(PANY ItC -- Located vic (351404) continued to maintain and improve deshyfense of area G-l moved to Vic of KIEROORF (31495) and placed guns in direct fire positions G-2 in ~sition in LlliAR (351404) C-3 in posishyti()n in vic of OBER LIILAR (363456) Com~ captured 30 prisoners 14 of which claimed to be ex-Frenchmen

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Hen 1 was assigned mission of reconooitering left f1ank of troop B 18th Cavalry Squadron as it took objectives on east bank of ERFT CANAL in 18th Cavalry Squadron sector Platoon capshytured one enemy prisoner in vicini ty of (300531) All railroad overshypasses and underpasses -between ~DRATH (290549) and KIERDORF (334496) were found demlished The woods in vicinity of (305535) gave evidence of being an ex-German bivouac area but has been deserted for sueral days Ten barracks and twenty auummi tion dump~ were found in vic (335514) adldings were empty and no minefields were encountered Rcn 2 moved to vic of GDINICH (302491) where it is being held in reserve

3 iHlDII jQTIVITY I

linemy stragglers surrendered in towns between lUHNICH (F 3052) and LIBLAR (1 3546) Only light resistance was encountered in mopping up this area A few rounds of mortar and sane small arms fire was recshyeived from the Vicinity of (F 49~oO)

8 Karch 1945

1 SIIDATlON

a SUpports 14th cavalry Group Moved Battalion CP forward to KOTTING~ (346486) closing in new location at 1630 hours

b GP LOCATIONS

Batta1ion bull bull bull bullbullbullbullbull 346486 Comp~ A bullbull bull bullbullbull 370452 CollPaIV B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 349465

2 OPENATlONSamp

OOMPAIIY A - Supports fire of 193rd FA ISl CP located at (37~52) A-l and A-3 are in indirect fire positions in viCinity of (37ct52) and A-2 is being held in reserve in that area

OOKPANY liB- - SUJ~rts the 18th Cavalry Squadron CP IIIDved to new locashytion at BmJHL (4l5478) B-1 moved to Vic1nity of SCHWjOORF (422454) and is in direct fire positions B-2 mved to ~HL and covers approaches to that area with direct fire positiona B-J moved to WRF PDlGSDORF (409401) and covers approaches to that area Company- support the 18th CavaJry Squadron in clearing all eD8lIIY resistance to the Rhine Rlver

GilLl o It

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 11: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

u~ COMPANY CII -- Located at LImAR (349465) G-l located at KIEROClRF (331494) C-2 at LIBLAR (349465) C-3 at OBERLIBLAR (363456) Preshyparations have been made for the Company to move forward in suppgtrting the 32nd cavalry Squadron in clearing all eneIItf resistance to the Rhine River 11 Prisoners were captured

aEOONNAISSANCEPLAlWNS - Hen 1 IOOVed to BruHL (41547(3) where it reshyrnains in reserve to support the 16th cavalry Squadron in clearing the area of the enemy Hen 2 IOOved to KOTlINGm (3464bo) where it remains in reserve

3 bull lUlU ACTIVl TY

Enemy resistance was ended in the Battalion I s zone Friendly uni ts reported enemy making last minute efforts to escape across the rtnine by barge and ferry Ferrying activities were repgtrted vic F470500 and F 475502 during the afternoon

9 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP WCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull bull bull 346486 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 415478 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS

COgtiPANY IIA - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Co Hqs and three platoons moved to vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409463) where 1st and 3rd platoons have been placed into indirect fire positions A-2 is being held in reserve in that vicinity

COMPANY IIBII - Supports lbth Cavalry Squadron in clearing ail enemy reshysistance in zone to Rl-LNE Co Hqs and B-2 remained in BHUHL (415478) B-1 remained in position in vicinity of SCHifADF (422454) and B-3 reshymained ill po sition in vicinity of OOrtF PJNGSOORF (409464) Platoons maintained and improved defenses of position

COMPANY IICII - SUpports 32nd Cavalry Squadron in clearing enemy resisshytance in zone to Hhine Co Hqs C-l and C-2 moved to vicinity of SECHTai (447434) where the platoons went into direct fire positions C-3 JOOved to HEIDE (390490) where it took up direct fire positions Two EM I S injured one by small arms fire of Cavalry personnel and one crushed against building qy a half-track

R3C0LIMAiSSANCE PLAlCNS -- Hen 1 remains in reserve in BiUHL (4l5478) Hen 2 remains in reserve in KGTrINGEN (46486)

~

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 12: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

3 ~l)(Y ACTMTY

During tids period there was a heavy increase in enemy air activity Frequent groups of enemy fighter planes were reported over the Battalion sector on fitrafing and light bombing missions aJong the Rhine river front This BaLtalion was not in contact with enemy units during this period

10 March 1945-1 SITUATION

a Battalion IOOVed its CP to WALBERl3E$ (423440)

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 423440 Comp~ A bull bullbullbull 409h63 Company B bullbullbull bull bullbullbull 415478 Company C bullbullbull bull bull bull bull 447434

2 OPERATIONS COMPANY A -- Supports fire of 193rd FA Bn Remains in indirect fire positions with two p~atoons with one platoon in reserve in vicinity of OORF PINGSOORF (409lP3) Fired nine barrassing missions for a total of 221 rds of shell HE (NC) Captured one German soldier in civilian clothes

COMPANY liB -- Supports 18th Cavalry Squadron who have been relieved in position by elements of the First DiVision Company assembled in vicinity of BRJHL (415475) prepared to move out

OOlAPAHY Cmiddot - SUpports 3200 cavalry Squadron ComparJy and three platoons located in vicinity of SECHTraquo (447434) 0-1 and C-3 are in indirect firemiddot positions C-2 remains in direct fire position Company registered and fired one mission of destruction of 30 rds HE (NC) destroying one enemy OPe

RECONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS -- Ron 1 remains in ~eserve in vLcinity of BRJHL (415478) Rcn 2 remains in reserve in viCinity of WALBERBERG (423440)bullbull

3 mmaIY ACTIVITY

amplEIDY infantry was observed digging in at F 509458 and were fired on by one of our companies resulting in an Wlestimated number of casualties being inflicted ~IIIIY air actinty was sporadic with freqshyuent forays being made by fighters on straffing missions En~ artillery fire was light in intensity during the period

ltd 1amp March 1945

1 SITUAlIOH

a Remained in WALBERBERG (423 440) bull Was detached from 14th Cavalry Group and reverted to III Corps control as 102too Warch 1945

b Cp LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 13: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

2 OPERATIONS

OOllPANY A - SUpports fire of 193rd FA Bn Bmained in indirect fire positions in Vic1nity of OORF PINliSDORF (409463) until 1300 The company was then assembled in that vicinity ready for IOOvement

OOllPANY liB- - SUpported Itgtth Cavalry Squadron until 2400 blurs Reshymained in assembly area vicinity of BRUHL (415474) realttr for IOOvement

OOllPANY 0 - SUpported 32nd Cavalry Squadron until 2400 hours Comshypany located in ViCinity of SECHT (441104) 0-1 and 0-3 fired indirshyect using their own forward observer Fired ten destruction missions four harrampssing missions and one mission for registration for a total of 220 rds of Hi (NO) ampl~ infantry were observed digging in at vic (509458) and were taken under fire Results It could be observed that many casualties were inflicted Company pulled out of position at 2200 hours and assembled preparing for movement

RECONNUSSANOE PLAIDONS - Hen 1 departed for a mission of doing traffic control work for the III Corps Headquarters The platoon took four addishytional officers with it Hen 2 remained in ail assembly area in the vic of WALBERBEFll (423~0) preparing for movement

3 DiliXY AOTIVITY

Bn~ air activity wasagain confined to strafing missions EDemy artillery continued to be light and of a harrassing and interdicshytory nature

12 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 401st FA Group Forward CP IOOved from WALBERBERG (423440) to BAD OODESBBRG (529318) Arrang~ ments are made to move Battalionto same area

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 409463 Company B bull lt 415414bull

Company 0 bull bull bull bullbull bull - bull bull 441434

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commander reconnoitered for indirect f~re positions in vicinity of BAD GODESBERG (592318) to reinforce firebf 965 FA Bn

OOllPANY B -- Company remained in assembly area prepared to move Comshypany Commanltier reconnoitered for direct fire po sitions on west bank of Rhine River in the vicinity of BAD OODESBERG (592318) bull

bullOOMPANY 0 - Company remained in assembly area prepa~od to move ComshypaarCommander reconnoitered for indirect fire positions in vicinity

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 14: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

LANNES to reinforce fire of b09th FA Battalion

RECONNAISSANC~ PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 and four additional officers are being used as road guides for III Corps traffic control Rcn 2 assembled at BAD GODESBErlG (592318)

3 ENma ACTIVITY

En~ JOOrtar and artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and interdictory nature and of light intensity Ene~ air activity conshytinued to be sporadic and concentrated mainly on straffing missions

13 1larch 1945

1 SIlUATION

a lio change

b CP LOOATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 592318 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 589321 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 598322 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 595299

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - Reinforces fire of 905 FA 111 CompaI1iY moved to new locashytion in BAD OODESBKRG (589321) and went into indirect fire positions along north side of city Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to guns

OOMPJNY BII - Comparw DDVed to new location in BAD GODampSBEBG (598322) and placed guns into defensive positions along west bank of Rhine river during the hours of darKness A cia-Ylight reconnaissance was made for targets on far side of river One at wounded in leg by sniper fire

COlAPANY 110 11 - Reinforces fire of 809th FA amp1 Company moved to new location southwest of ANNES in vic of (59299) and went into indirect firing positions Guns were laid but not registered 600 rds of HE delivered to the guns Company Conmander was seriously wounded in both legs by enemy mortar fire Evacuated

RECONNAISSANOE PLA1OONS -- Ron 1 remains with III Corps traffic conshytrol Headquarters on special duty Hen 2 - two vehicles am one offshyicer have gone across Rhine river to reconnoiter for targets to be taken under fire by the artillery and to adjust that fire- if possible Remainder of platoon remains in reserve

3 liNDlY ACTIVITY

ampl~ mortar and artillery was negligible during the period Enemy air activity continued although only three fighters were reported over the Battalion sector during the period one of which was shot down by friendly troops

bull

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

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S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

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l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

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REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

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31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 15: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

14 lIarch 1945

1 SIlJATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COampANY IIA - Fired harrassing missions for a total of 39 rds of HENO) and 73 rds of HE t rtC) rleinforces fire of 965th FA amp

COMPANY BII -- Fired direct fire across lthine ttlver at previously selectshye~ targets bull One parked ~lf-track was des~royed~ 5 ~PIS were destro~ed f~re WclS placed on a large castle overlook~ng this ~ty (probable UP) Dugouts barges and oouses believed to be occupied by soldier Hho had been sean wandering aoout these places were fired upon 140 rds HE (NO) and 12 rds of APC were used

COMPANY G -- Fired harrassing missions for a wtal of 332 rds of HENC) and 40 rds of HE (HG) Reinforces fire of v09th FA Bn

MOJNNAISSAHGE PLA11UNS -- lien 1 remains with III Corps traffic control on s[Jecial dty rlcn 2 - Two vehicles und one officer still reconnoitershying Ccro~ s tiline tiver or possible artillery targetsbull

llieroy foot troops were observed entering nouse vic F 028313 fhis ooJse was l-aken under uirec~ fire and complete destruction was accolplished Various 0IOups of eneny soldiers were observed in the sarile vicinity and numerous casualties were inflicted by our direct fire

15 March 19h5

1 SIIUATION

a Battalion Ieleased from attachment 401st FA Group and attached to 8th Tank Desvroyer Group Moved CP to new location in ERPEL (047207)

b OP LOCAlIUNS

Battalion bull 647207 Company A bull 689208 Company B bull bull bull 705187 CompaIlIf C bull bull 690155

2 0l-nAIT0NS

COlilPANY A -- ~einforced fire of 905th FA Bn until 150300 Company was in an indir8ct firt position anci fired 32 harrassing missions and 2 neushytrclization Jissions for a total of 186 rds of HE ~NC) and 893 rds of HE ~ ie) Company moved to new locacion across rlhine with mission of supportshying the action ofl-he 9th Infantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the time of this report the company was moving into

) l

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 16: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

~2Ibull

position Tentative position of CP will be in vicinity (089207) One gun out of action - sent to Ordnance for repair

COMPANY liB -- Comparv was in direct fire position on west bank of Rhine rover in vicinity of BADOOllESampBG until 142400 CompalY received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division in its sector and a reconnaissance was made of iihe area and at the time of this report the compaIY as moVing into position in vicinity (10518 1) bull One EM 1IOUIlded in leg by sniper fire while in position in BAD GODESBERG liVacuated

(X)MPANY C -- Reinforced fire of 809th FA amp1 until 150300 Company was in an indirect fire position and fired 31 harrassing missions for a total of 584 rds of HE (He) Also fired 1 rds star shell on request of 809th ~A Bn Company received mission of supporting the action of the 99th Inshyfantry Division in its sector Reconnaissance was made of area and at the iiime of this report were moving into position in Vic of (090155)

MOONNAISSANCE PLATuONS - Ren 1 and 4 officers remain li th III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters on special duty Rcn 2 - Two vehicles and one officer reCOIUlOitered for artillery targets until 142400 Reverted back to Battalion Control cmd will be assembled in vic of Battalion CPo

3 ]NE1IT ACTIVITY

The ene~ contiwed his determined efforts to contain the bridgehead Enenv resistances was generally light during the day with IOOderate artillery and mortar being received in aAL sectors Enemy air activity -s again concentrated on the bridging sites across the RHINE river 35 raids were made during the period Majority of planes were 14Ji-202s confined to straffing and light bombing missions

10 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion established contact and liaison with the units being supported and Yd th other Tank Destroyer Units in area

b CF LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 641201 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 689208 Company B bull bull 679184 Company C bullbull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 686165

2 OPamptATIONS

COMPANY -Aft - Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone coIllllWlications Made reconnais sance forward for new positions

smiddot erR 6

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 17: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

fj 0 R BY ~-shy -

OOMPANY B - Went into direct fire positions fug in guns ani estabshylished telephone commmications Made reconnaissance forwtrd for new positions

OOMPANY middotC -- Went into direct fire positions Dug in guns and estabshylished telephone communications Made reconnaissance forward for new positions

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - Ren 1 remain on special dlty with the III Corps Traffic Control Headquarters Ren 2 returned to Battalion and remains in reserve Prepared to go south along river on reconnaissance for terrain study and possible gun positions as t~t area is cleared of the eneIDiY

3 raquolDdY ACTIVITY

Jinellij artillery fire was moderate during the period nth most concentrations confined to attacking elements in the viCinity of (F732192) En8IIV air activity was negative during the period with only one plane being reported over the LINZ area Two ene~ tanks were reported in an un~cshycessful counterattack in the vicinity of HESSlIIN (F7313)

17 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS - No change

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - Slpports 9th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platoons moved forward and went into direct fire positiona in Vic of 704234 am 699242 respectively covering approaches from the north northBast and east The 1st platoon remained in direct fire position in vic of 1l4217

COMPANY B - Supports 99th Infantry Division The 2nd and 3rd platovns moved their gun posi tiona forward in the vicini tr of 725171 and 724196 rer pectively to cover the approaches from the east and svutheas t of the 99th Infantry Division sector 1st Platoon remained in the vicinity of 697183

COMPANY 0 -- Supports 99th Infantry DiVision The platoons remain in direct fire positions Reconnaissance was made soo tn along river for posshysible move forward Heconnaissance was also made in Vic 730150 for posshysible ill posi ti0ns but found area unSJi table for positions at present time Until the line moves forward there are no tank approaches directly south of ~2 I s positions

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain With III Corps Traffic Control on special duty 2nd Platoon ccnducted a reconnaissance of terrain for tank approaches and possible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division area not yet cleared of enemy

I

~

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 18: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

S B C R Xmiddot r ----~

3 mEXY ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery actiVity in the Battalion sector continued to be light 19ith the ampMAGEN bridge drawing 37 rds of light and medium With no hits being recorded fuemy air actiVity reached a new low durshying the period with only one llpound-2b2 being reported over the Battalion sector

18 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group rleconooitered for billets for ampl CP in 99th Infantry Division sector with view of JJyen)vng as soon as possible

b CP LOCATIONS - No cha~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - aJpports 9th Infantry Division Mampintained and ilIproved defense of area Reconnaissance made forward for possible positions in 9th Infantry Division sector and also for positions in sector of 393rd Infantry Regiment of 99th Infantry Division lWgt men killed and three woWlded by enemy mortar fire

COMPANY BIt -- B-1 maintained and improved defenses of positions and reconnoitered and selected positions in vicinity of 1S4l86 Prepared to move to those positions B-2 moved poSitions fo~ to vic 731165 B-3 maintained and improved defense of area Captured one GeIllL3Jl in vic 138178 after wwnding him with rifle fire Soldier had been hiding in WOods in area

OOMPdY ncn - Maintained and improved defense of area Reconnoitered for positions forward north of WNNING~ (o98lJ5) and approaches from the east leading to that town

REOONNAISSANCE PLA1OONS - 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special futy 2nd Platoon conducted a reconshynaissance of terrain for tank approaches and posgtible gun positions on high ground along southern boundry of the 99th Infantry Division sector

3 iNDlY ACTIVITY

Ene~ activity during the period was largely to defensive digshyging and to isolated movements behind the eneDY lines ~ artillerr continued to be light during the period confined mostly to fires of harrassing and interdictory nature ~ air activity was negligible wi tn onJy four en~ aircraft being reported over the Battalion sector during the period

bull

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 19: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

1 SITUATICJN

a Battalion attached to 8th TD Group Prepared to move to new location in LINZ (079104)

b OP LOCATIONS

Bat talion bull bull bullbull 047207 Company A bullbull bull bull bull bull 733172 Company B bullbull bull bull bull bull bull 723188 Company 0 bullbullbull 700130

2 OP~fumiddotlmiddotI()NS

OO~ANY A -- SuEJorts 99th Infantry Division Company and platoons IlOved from sector of 9th Infantry Division to sector of 99th Infantry Division taking direct fire po sitions in sup JQrt of the latter unit rlatoons are located in vic A-l 74blo2 A-2 737166 A-3 754167

COliF~Y B - SupJorts 99th Infantry Division Company moved its OP froIn LThZ forward to new location in vic 723108) B-1 displaced forshyward to occupy po si tions in vic of 747180 B-2 di splaced north to occupy posi tions in vic of 722205 B-3 remained in position in Vic 724196 mainshytained and improved defense of area

COMPANY 0 - ~pports loth cavalry Squadron 0-1 - 092148 C-2 70(12) C-3 - 000104 G-l and C-j remained in position improving defense of area G-2 displaC8d forward to take direct fire positions south of IDNND~GEN in vic of 700123 Company moveo CP to NONNmGiN One security Section estabshylished road block NE of OOLUllBUS Platoon Leaders reconnoitered for posishytioHs in vic of liJNi~~Gcl~ bull

ticCONNALlSAijeE PLAlWNS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers on Special Duty with III Corps lralfic Control Section One section of the 2nd Platoon estabshylished ou tpos-s in front of Company IIAII S Sector The other section conshyducted reconnaissance for tank approaches in southern sector of 99th Inshyfantry Division

3 ~aty ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery showed a decided decrease with shelling reports reaching a new low since the RiUNE river crossing only 13 shell reports were received averaging b rds ilieroy air activity was confined to four planes which were reported over tIle Battalion sector during the hours of darkness

20 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th Tank Destroyer Group Battashylion moved to new GP Location at LINZ Closed at 10)0 hrs

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 20: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 Company C bullbull bull bull bull 699121

2 OIERATIONS

OOMPANY A -- amplpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in position maintained and improved defense of area

OOWPANY B - 3lpports 99th Infantry Division Compa~ remained in position maintained and improved defenses of area

OOMPANY c - amplpports 18th cavalry Squadron Locations C-l 714109 C-2 140012 0-3 116102 0-2 was in position south of lDNNINGEN to Slpshyport attack on RHElNBiDHL DiSIOOWlted security of 0-2 went into RHEINshyBllJHL on the attack and caprured 4 pri~ners C-2 then at 2030 hours moved to direct fire positions vic 140010 covering road block at 142068 C-l and C-3 displaced from direct fire positions in vic ARIENOORF AND LillBSOORF to Vic RHEIN BIDHL (114105) Guns were in new positions at 2030 hours

MOONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Platoon and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Ben 2 - One section maintains front-line outposts in front of CompaIY A Second section on security mission covering area on flank of 0-2

3 ~FlIY ACTIVITY

Enemy action during the period 1I9-s confined to scattered llM)veshymant behind nis lines limited patrolling and light and scattered artilshylery fire Artillery was mostly sporadic and of the harassing type lIith several 00ncentrations falling in lDNNINGm Enemy aircraft bombed in the vicinity of (F 755175) at 2230 hours ill1d nine individual raids were reported over the Battalion sector on reconnaissance missions during the period

21 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of areabull

~ l~

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 21: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

l~ 2 COMPANY B -- amp1pports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions Maintained and improved defenses of area

COMPANY C - Slpports lBth Cavalry Squadron Platoons remained in positions raquoaintained and improved defenses of area Made preparashytion to support 9th Infantry DiVision after being relieved from 9lpshyport of lb th cavalry Squadron

RECONNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- 1st Ren and 4 officers remain with III Corps Traffic Control on Special Iraquoty One section of 2nd Hen maintained outshyposts in front of Company A One section provided nank security for Compa~ C Section captured eleven prisoners

3 tII)fl ACTIVITY

~e~ activity was at a miniIalm while he limited his efforts to intermittent artillery fire and several bombing and straffing attacks lliring the period artillery fire was confined to harassing fire during daylight hours Fire included mortar and light caliber artillery on forward elements All enemy air activity over the Battalion sector took place during the hJurs of darkness and aside from isolated bombshying and straffing attacks on the forward elements 18 raids were reshyported on the bridge 6ites

22 )6arch 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th Tank Destroyer Group

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbullbullbullbullbull 680183 Compa~ A bull bull bull bull bullbullbull bull bull bullbull 133112 Company B bull bull bull bull bull 123188 CompaDyen C bullbull 122222

2 OPERATIONS

COMPANY A - Supports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions One Prisoner of War taken by OPe

COll4PANY B - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry DiVisions Company remained in positions No change

COWPANY C -- Company supports 9th Infantry Division Locations C-l 13922b C-2 126246 C-3 122212 Company moved into position after reshylief from support of 18th cavalry Squadron and prepared positions to support the 9th Infantry Division sector

SECRET-- -shy

f I

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 22: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

-shy

REOONNAISSANCE PLAToNS 1st Ren - One section and 4 officers remain rlth III Corps Traffic Control on special duty Second section of Ren 1 acting as bUAld for Bn OPe Ren 2 - One section maintained outshyposts forward of Company A section two preparing to furnish flR-nk protection for Oompany 0

23 Yarch 1945

1 SITUATION

a BattaJion attached to the 8th T D Group

b CP WCATIONS No c~e

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY A - $lpports 99th Infantry Division Platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY liB - In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions Company remained in position maintampining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY tlO -- Compa~ ~pports 9th Infantry Division Company IIIDved into position after relief from support of 16th cavalry Sqaadron and prepared positions to support 9th Infantry Division Four III wounded one bull killed and one officer wounded by artillery fire

REOONNAISSANCE PLAroONS -- Ben 1 - returned from special duty with In Corps Traffic Control to furnish screen and outposts along front line forward of Company tiC Ben 2 - maintained outposts on front line forshyward of Companies B and All

3 mmrr ACTIVITY I

Enemy artillery although initially very light increased conshysiderab13 during the day The tulk of the fire fell on fo~d elements ldth an estimated 500 rds falling in the BRITSCHEID IF 1920) area Enemy air activity over the Battalion sector 1Iamps negligible with only one plane passing over with no attack being made

24 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION a

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Gloup

b OF LO~TIONS No change

2 OPW1IONSa

OOMPANY An - supjlOrts 99th Infantry Division Locations 1-1 147188 1-2 137l66 1-3 754167 1st PlR-toon relieved B-1 and moved into the area it formerly occupied 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

(~Jtl~t

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 23: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

SIC RET 11 ---shy

OO(PANY B -- In general support of the 9th and 99th Infantry Divisions 1st Pliftoon moved Co positions vic 750236 in preparation to relieve Comshypany C for conversion 2nd and 3rd platoons remained in positions maintaining and improving defenses of area

OOMPANY nc - amp1pports 9th Infantry Division CompaIV continued to occupy defensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP

fuQJNNAISSANCE PLATOONS -- Rcn 1 furnished screen for 1st platoon Company Bn going in position vic 7502)6 Established 2 outposts _One at wu and evacWi ted Hen 2 maintained autposts on front line forward of Comshypanies n and B

3 gma ACTIVITY

The eneIV continued to improve and occupy his defensive posishytions Moderate harra5sing mortar fire was received intermittenly durshying the period along with scattered rds of light artillery merny airshycraft was comparatively inactive over the Battalion sector during the period

1 SITUATION

a No change

b CP LOCATIONS

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 765175 Comp~ B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 708268 CompaIl3 C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 720220

2 OPEdATIONS

OO)(lANY A -- Supports 99th Infantry Division Moved to new positions in vic of 765175 A-l 779195 A-2 762147 A-3 793193 ~ Company moved across the WIED River to follow up and to support the action of- the 99th Infantry Division Captured 3 enemy prisoners l

OOMPANY B - Company CP and the 2nd and 3rd platoons moved to III Corps northern boundry in support of che 9th Infantry Division in the vic of Company CP 708268 B-2 743273 B-3 734278 B-1 remiined i-nyosition in vic 744236 maintaining and improving positions captured 5 en~ prishysoners

OO(PANY nc - bpports 9th Infantry Division Locations CompaIIY 120220 C-l 739225 0-2 727245 0-3 723213 Company continued to occupy dfensive positions pending relief by other companies for conversion to SP Impro ments in position and calOOufiage were carried out

S E 0 R ~+

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 24: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

REOONNAISSANCc PLAl)ONS -- Rcn 1 ~nished screen for 1st platoon Company B in vic 74423b Manned outposts and used as securitiY for gun positions Ren 2 furnished screen for the movement of Comshypany A Location of CP in vic 765175 Manned outposts and used as security for gun pos tions

3 m~ ACTIVITY

Enemy artillery fire continued to be of a harassing and intershydictory nature me sUy of a light caliber and of light intensi ty There were no enemy aircraft reported over the Battalion sector during the period

26 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a No change

b OP LOCATIONS

Battalion bullbull bull bull bullbullbull 680183 Company A bullbullbullbullbull bull bull 765175 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bullbull 706125

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY IIAII - Company remained in s1me positions supporting the action of the 99th Infantry Division Preparations are being made for depar1nre to the conversion area

OOl4PANY middotB - Left old positions at 2100 brs and closed in at the conshyversion area at 0055 March 26 1945 The conversion area is in the vic of pNNINGal (706125) Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

OOl4PMlY IIC -- Left old positions at l4l5 hrs and closed in at lDNNINGEN (700125) at 1630 hours for the Urpose of converting to seli-propelledbull Relieved of support of the 9th Infantry Division

REOONNAISSANCE PLAlOONS - Ren 1 - Relieved of Slpport for B Company leaving their old positions at 1730 hrs and closing in at their new posi tions in the vic of 680183 at 1840 hrs for the plrpose of mainshytainance and regrouping in preparation for a new as signment ReD 2 shyrlemained in same area in the vic of (16$17gt1 in SlPport of Amiddot Company Personnel used in outposts and security for gun positions

21 IlABCH 1945

1 SITUATION I

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled in the Vic of MAmiddot Company 688154 Company Bmiddot 10612$ CompaD1 C 10612$ for the purpose of conversion Companies liB and C have draWil their ll-18 Destroyers aIXi all necessary equipment eJmept the 8IDJDi tion tra1ler8 m-1O B and C Companies who are assembled in the vicinity of

_STmiddot--- ~

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 25: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

lDNNING~ and Wlll be prepared for any combat mission at 1200 today

b oP LOCATIONSI

Battalion bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 680183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Company B bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 106125 Company C bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 706125

2 OPERATIONS lone

28 Karch 1945

1 SITUATION

a All units of this Battalion have been assembled for the purpose of conversion Companies ABA and IICU have drawn their Jl-lts Des troyers and all necessary eql1pment eEept the amnunltion trailers ~1O

b CP LOCATIONS No change

2 OPERATIONSI

OOMPANY IIAA - In the process of conversion

OOKPANY IIBU - Conversion completed and awaiting further orders

OOMPANY C - Conversion completed and attached in support to Jhth Cavalry Group as of 27lJ50 March 1945 Comparv placed on a one hour alert awaiting further orders

REOONNAISSANOE PLATOONS - In the process of organization Hen 2 placed on a one hour alert awaiting orders to ~ccompany Company 0 on its misshysion

29 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Battalion attached to 8th T D Group Battalion Forward (TAO) CP left old area at l400 hours and closed in present position in the vicinity of NDR WEIDBAOH (521342 ) at 2100 hours 36 Operational M-5 ChIle and 36 Operational Pr1me lIovers have been turned in to Ordnance

2 CP LOCATIONS

Battalion OP (TAC) bullbullbullbull bullbullbull 521342 Battalion Fwd bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183 Company A bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 688154 Co~ nB bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 358234 Co~ AC bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 219124

SBCliBT- -- - -shy

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 26: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

bull bull

2 OPERATIONS

OOMPANY AU - In the process of conversion

OOMPANY B - Left old area at 1700 lxgturs and closed in BElLSTElN (358234) at 0300 hours 29 March 1945

OOMPANY middotC - Left old area at 1230 hours to fulfill assigmnent of attached in support to 14th Cavalry Group and proceeded to L1HR (279l24) At 1310 hours a message was received to the effect that c Company- was relieved of attachment in support to the 14th Cavalry Group ani reverted back to Battalion and 8th T D Group control Company is now in the vicinity of LAHR (279124)

RON OOMPANY - Ben 1 Jseft old area at 1700 hours ani closed in BElLSTEIN (58234) at 0300 hours Karch 29 1945 where they are in SlpfX)rt of B Company Hen 2 left old area at 1230 lxgturs and closed in at LAHR at 1700 hours where they are in support of C Company

30 March 1945

1 SITUATION

a Tactical OP located in Vic NDR WEIDBACH Friendly soldiers reported enemy in the vicinity of (470320) patrols WOrked the area for several hours with negative reSl1ts CP pershysonnel picked up 9 PWs in NDR WEIDB1CH which were turned over to a PW enclosure

b OF LOCATIONS

Battalion (TAO) bull 527342middot bull middot middot bull Battalion fwd CP middot middot middot middot middot 080183 Comp~ IIAII bull 088154middot bull middot middot bull Colllp8ny II BU bull 358234middot bull middot middot bull CompaIY Cn bull bull bull 479334 middot middot bull Recon CP bull bull bull bull bull bull 080183middot bull

2 OPEampTIONS

OOMPANY A -- In the process of conversion Have received 10 )(-los Preparations for movement to forward area completed

OOMPANY B - Performed maintenance and received instruction on new vehicles ampleroy soldiers were refX)rted in the area by civilians patshyrols searched the area and captured 3 PWs who were taken to the PW cage

COMPANY IIC - Moved from its position at LAHR (279124) at 1715 lxgturs and closed in new area in the vicinity of OFF1NBACH (479334) at 1930 hra

RON OOMPANY - Co~ officiall activamptttd with 1st Platoon in support of B Compa~ 2nd Platoon in support of c Company and 3rd Platoon accompanying tactical OP awaiting arrival of All CompaDy whom it will supportbull 1st Platoon captured 2 PWs while on patrol

~

~9I

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 27: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

31 Karoh 1945

1 SIlATluN

a Tactioal CP located in NDR WEIDBACH Security patrols captured 1 German soldier ForWllrd CP moved from old amprLgta at LINl at ut)JO and closed in new area AIJP2iSTADP2i ~ Ll_32) at 17lX) Illurs

b CP WCATl0NSI

latical Of bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 527342 o(lrd Cl bull bull bull bull bull bull bull bull 533294 ~nnAis~4U(~ wmpar~bullbullbullbull 527342 lAmpanY A bull bull bullbull 489304 ~l1paly q bull bull bull bull bull 51231b ~1ptl lie bull 479334

OJMP~NY A - CClU~lettgtoi ~ nVl~middot1 ll1 ilk1 left old area at 0600 ooWs and clos ed in ll1l dea - Eamp~tii)l)o I hS~ jUL) at 1300 oour s

OOMPANY B -- o-i~a- ll~~t ~~lULS clN at 13lkl hour Closed in new area vicini ty AL middot~l~~lcl ~l~l- at IVl) hOllis Security patrols picked up 3 ~~-an i-r$~emiddots

IXJAPAlY 1111 - i~lvltnti l~ lSlgt~t ~thm Olltf~BACH Preparing for fuwre ~1Gd-e-e SL~~ ty i-atl~L ~ickd up 5 German prisoners

~~Al5M~l x~~j~t - ~middot~a~lylc~jUart~rs now located in NDR WEIDBAdH lgtCI~~~ ~ iCl ~~ltgtt-0 ill ~gt~~ ~f cdch ~ mpanybull Pjn~er platoon moveG Ct at ~~(-- L tlt ELuloi~A~ IIL1~IC ()9)234) Mis~i~on e~ven by bth i D J1Ou~ - ~ ta1 ~ ~~~ili t-aly ~wlsolmel and tooroughly search the 9retse~ 1 ii(l is t-ein ~~gtlmiddotfCrmed

( ~I

--~~--K~~~ WILLIAM H BARDES

Lt Col o17th T D Bn Conmanding

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR
Page 28: U'.,'I - Tank  · PDF fileSECTION III - REPORT AFTER ACTION A.GAINST ENEMY 1 March, 1945 . 1. SITUATION: a. Battalion attached to the 408th FA Group and prepared for

1 I

a I C R---_ -

817TH AJ( DFSTi)YER 3la TALlON amp-1 ADJillISitATIVE AiZX fuR OPERATIOHS PEPOaT PBRIOD 1 MAR 45 to 31MAR 45

KILLFl)

BAT1lE ceUALTIES

JlJUUDED ~SSlliG CAPIUaED roUL

roTAL SICK AND NON-BATILE

CASUALTIES

uFFICERS 0 2 0 0 2 0

E M 3 13 0 0 16 9

TOTAL 3 15 0 0 18 9

ltiINtoRC~TS

Officers Enlisted Men Total

6 March 1945 0 1 1

16 March 1945 0 1 1

22 March 1945 1 0 1

23 March 1945 1 4 5

10TAL 2 l2 14

Battalion reorganized under able ot OrganiZation and Equipment 18-25 and changes thereto the 21th of March 1945 Reconnaissance Company activated 21th ot March 1945

STlTUS OF SUPPLI~

1 STUUS OF SUPPLY FOR MONTH OF MUCH 1945

amp Dlring III)nth statu of wpply did not cblnge

Class I - Two (2) days Slpply on hand ClJLss III - TIm (2) days aupply on hand Class V - One hundred per cent (1OO) basic load on band

  • Pages from 817th TD-6
  • 817th TD Mar 1-31 45 AAR