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WINGFOOT
OFFICIAL HISTORY
Golonel, U. S. Rrrny
Gornmanding
CONTENTS
To the men of Wingfoot 3
Foreword 5
JANUARY 7
Official History 9
FEBRUARY 13
Official History 14
MARCH 17
Official History 19
APRIL 37
Official History 41
MAY 77
Official History 80
A final word 95
CAVALRY CHARACTERS
Cartoon, by T/5 Alfred Hopkins 78
RECORD of EVENTS
Prior to January 4, 1945 97
What about YOUR story? 98
Random Shots 99—100
My Story 101
INMEMORIAM Inside Back Cover
Souvenir Booklet Published far Members of The 101st Cavalry Group, Mechanized
Printed by Hugo Diesbach Ww., Weinheim/Bergsitr., Germany
AUGUST 1945
Foreword
The story of the 101st Cavalry in the annals of American
Arms in Combat began in the year 1898 during the Spanish-
American War. The lirst baptism of fire came at Coamo,
Porto Rico, where Troop "C", one of the parent 01 ganizations,
served with distinction. In 1916, Squadron "A" (Manhattan),
the oldest of the parent units, remained a separate squadron
while Troop "B" (Geneseo), the youngest, and other up-State
Troops joined with the now Squadron "C" (Brooklyn), to
form the Ist New York Cavalry. All served on the Mexican
Border. In 1917 these horse cavalry units were reorganized
into separate Machine Gun Battalions of the 27th Division
and, as such, served brilliantly throughout the crucial 1918
campaigns of World War I.
In 1920 the horse organizations were reestablished and
in 1922 the Ist New York Cavalry was redesignated the 101st
Cavalry. Several reorganizations took place in the following
years. In January 1941, the unit was inducted into the Army
of the United States as a Horse-Mechanized Regiment and
became fully mechanized after our entry into World War 11.
Reorganization from a Regiment to a Group took place in
December 1943. The personnel now consisted of men and
officers representing every State of the Union who stood
5
shoulder to shoulder with the men from New York under the
standard which proudly flew the Battle Streamers of 1898
6
cJciiiifCMpy
*^k
7
they sang the old year out and the New Year in ...
Would the orders never come?
Would it be the big fight or one of the "sideshows"? Would the Group be broken-up
or fight as a unit? What Army would it be? What Corps? ...Most of these questions
were not to be answered for a long time but the orders to move finally came with
BARTON-STACEY in southern England the first stop. And then to the marshalling
area at SOUTHAMPTON and a midnight ride to the docks where hours of waiting
in the rain cast the mood.
8
HEADQUARTERS
15 February 1945
-
1. In accordance with the provisions of AR 345 105, dated 18 No
vember 1929, and Change 4, dated 10 August 1944; letter Hq ETOUSA,
subj: "Handling of Historical Documents in the European Theater of
Operations", file AG 312.1 Op History, dated 14 July 1944, and Section IV,
Circular No. 34, Headquarters Seventh Army, dated 28 November 1944,
the following report is submitted.
11
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12
February
\Jn the &th day of February 1945 men from the two original Squadrons of the
101st CAVALRY GROUP took their place in the front lines for the first time. While
it was not fully realized at that time, they were ready for combat. Four years of hard
and conscientious training in the United States was to prove itself early in the
Especially
fighting. There was much still to be learned, however, the "hard way".
difficult was the task these men faced of fighting as infantrymen
when their equip
ment and training was strictly for Mechanized Cavalry work. They quickly overcame
these obstacles and difficulties and it was not long before they were battlewise and
'tasks which are ithe lot of -the combat soldier. The acid
hardened 'to the unpleasant
upon the
test of unrelenting and continuous night and day responsibility now fell
be respite for a period of
elements and machinery of command. There was to no
85 consecutive days.
13
HEADQUARTERS
19 March 1945.
4. Narrative History.
a. 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz., remained in Camp TWENTY GRAND,
FRANCE, from 1February 1945 through 4 February. Garrison duties were
performed and equipment was prepared for further movement. Pursuant
to Troop Assignment No. 18, Headquarters Twelfth Army Group, 23 Ja
nuary 1945, the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz., was attached to the Fifteenth
U. S. Army, relieved from assignment to the Twelfth Army Group and
assigned to the Sixth Army Group. In accordance with Unit Assignment
*Not included herein
14
WEILLER, GERMANY
-
WADGASSEN,
Order No. 18, Headquarters Sixth Army
Group, 27 January 1945, it was subse GERMANY, both exclusive, was begun
quently assigned to the Seventh Army. on 9 February 1945 and completed on
11 February 1945. Control of the sector
b. Pursuant to Movement Order No. passed to 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz., at
2-17, Headquarters District A, Normandy 1200 A, 11 February 1945. Dispositions
Base Section, Com Z, European T ot Opns, were in accordance with FO No. 4, this
4 February 1945, the 101st Cavalry Group, headquarters, 11 February 1945. The folio-
Mecz., departed Camp TWENTY GRAND, wing major units were attached to the
FRANCE, en rouie to LUNEVILLE,, Group:
FRANCE, an 5 February 1945, crossed IP,
17th FA Group:
ST. JEAN de CARDONEY, NORMANDY, Col J. C. McLaughlin, Commanding
at 0946 A, closed in bivouac SOISSONS,
FRANCE, 1952 A. Departed SOISSONS, 93rd Armd FA Bn:
FRANCE, 6 February 1945; crossed IP Lt Col John Shanklin, 111, Commanding
0700 A, closed in bivouac, VERDUN, 802nd FA Bn:
FRANCE, 2130A. VOCG Seventh Army Lt Col N. Landon Head, Commanding
were received night 6-7 February 1945,
changing destination
from LUNEVILLE, 1185th Engr (C) Group:
FRANCE, to the FAULQUEMONT area,
Col W. F. Weiler, Commanding
FRANCE. Departed VERDUN, FRANCE,
48th Engr (C) Bn:
7 February 1945; crossed IP 0700 A, closed
Maj J. E. Foley, Jr., Commanding
in bivouac ST. AVOLD,FRANCE, 1630 A.
16
ftlonech
ZM friendly fog which did not liftuntil the sun was at its mid-day height
covered the initial stages of the attack on the 14th of March. When night fell on the
day following all enemy along the Group front were either captured or destroyed.
More than fifty per cent of all easualdties were the result of sniper fire. Each and
every house had to be cleared. This was a first success and while the men were fully
aware of the determined fighting character of their enemy they now stood firmin the
knowledge that they had beaten him and could do so again and again ... and didt
LEGEND
Road
£^5," -Town, Village, City
Stream Creek
Siegfried Line
Railroad
French-German Border
18
HEADQUARTERS
4 June 1945.
Mecz., from that noted in Unit History for the period 1 January 1945
—
2 February 1945.
5. NARRATVE HISTORY.
a. The 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, continued its defensive mission
along the line EMMERSWEILLER, GERMANY
— WADGASSEN, GER-
MANY,both exclusive, from 1March 1945 to 13 March 1945. During that
* Not included herein.
19
20
period, the following attachments and Group, Mecz, zone were initiated on 14
detachments were made on the dates March 1945, and successfully completed
indicated: on 15 March 1945. These operations resul
ted in a general advance of approximately
Detached:
2500 meters, the capture or destruction of
17th FA Group t
1March 1945 all enemy forces south of the SAAR
93rd Armd FA
802nd FA Bn t
Bn (SP)
*
t 1 March 1945
March 1945
RIVER in the Group Zone, and the cap-
ture of the towns
of GEISLAUTERN,
1185th Engr (C) Group 8 March 1945 WEHRDEN, SCHAFFHAUSEN and HO
48th Engr (C) Bn .... 10 March 1945 STENBACH, all Germany. Many casual
165 th Engr (C) Bn . ...10 March 1945
.. .
10 March 1945
ties were inflicted upon the enemy and
54 prisoners of war were taken. Casual
2756 th Engr (C) Bn
2d Cml Bn 10 March 1945 ties of 2 killed and 31 wounded were
suffered by elements of the 101st Cavalry
t Remained in direct support until Group, Mecz (for detailed account of this
15 March 1945. operation, see Inclosure No. 1).
Attached: c. (1) Pursuant to Opns Instns No. 39,
Co A, 1 Ren Plat 822d Headquarters XXICorps, 16 March 1945,
TD Bn (T) 8 March 1945 the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, was at-
Co B, 99th Cml Mortar tached to the 63rd Infantry Division and
Bn 8 March 1945 directed to assemble vicinity of HELLI
MER, FRANCE, after the relief of the
The 17th FA Group was reinforced by Group's front line units by elements of
the attachment of the 969th FA Bn (M) the 70th Infantry Division had been com
on 7 March 1945. The Group Command pleted. The Group closed in the prescribed
Post moved to LUDWEILER, GERMANY, area at 171100 A. Co A, 1 Ren Plat, 822 d
9 March 1945. TD Bn (T) and Co B, 99th Cml Mortar Bn
- were relieved of attachment to the Group
b. During the night 13 14 March 1945,
combat patrols from the 101st and
116;h upon its departure from the WEHRDEN
Cay Ren Sqs, Mecz, made deep penetra HOSTENBACH area. The 93rd AFA Bn
(105 mm), Co X, 253rd Infantry and the
tions of the enemy positions to their front.
From the information gained, operations 63rd Cay Ren Troop, Mecz, were attached
to clear the enemy from the south bank to the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, upon
of the SAAR, RIVER in the 101st Cavalry its arrival in the HELLIMER area.
21
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(2 In compliance with VOCG, 63rd In division right flank, proceeding by any
fantry Division, 17 March 1945, the 101st available route through the main defenses
Cavalry Group, Mecz, reinforced, relieved of the SIEGFRIED LINE and capturing
the 253rd Infantry in its positions facing the town of ST. INGBERT. This mission
-
the SIEGFRIED LINE along the general
line ENSHEIM GUDINGEN, both Ger
was accomplished at 201535 Aand escape
routes to the West and Northwest were
many, at 172103iA with the mission to blocked.
defend present positions and maintain (5) At 201400 A, the 101st Cay Gp, Mecz
contact with the enemy by aggressive (less Tr A, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz),
patrolling.
Command Posts were established as - -
received the mission to sweep the zone
BREBACH RENTRICH ENSHEIM
-
follows: ST. INGBERT. This mission was accom
101st Cay Gp, Mecz
— WINTRING plished by 202359 A and the Group was
HOF, GERMANY, directed to assemble; the 101st Cay Ren
101st Ren Sq, Mecz
Cay —
ESCHRIN Sq, Mecz, vicinity of BISCHMISHEIM
GEN, GERMANY,
116 th Cay Hen Sq, Mecz
— BUBIN
andi the 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, vicinity
of BUBINGEN.
GEN, Germany, (6) At 201740 A, Tr A, 116 th Cay Ren
92rd AFA Bn (105 mm)
—KLEINS Sq, Mecz, was relieved at ST. INGBERT
BITTERSDORF, GERMANY. by elements of the 63rd Inf Div and
Vehicles were parked in rear assembly
areas. by screening the line BREBACH
-
directed to protect the division left flank
ST.
INGBERT.
(3) Front line positions were garrison
ed and aggressive patrolling to the front This mission was accomplished by
-
and laterally was conducted throughout
18 19 March 1945. In the late afternoon,
202359 Aand patrols were extended 2 kms
to the West and Northwest of the assig
19 March 1945, indications of enemy with ned line.
drawal were noted and a reconnaissance (7) During this operation many casual
in force was begun early 20 March 1945. ties were inflicted upon the enemy and
The former Group front line was out- 104 PWs were taken. Casualties of 3 killed
posted, and both squadrons moved for
and 11 wounded were sustained by ele
ward in their respective zones against ments of the Group. Tr A, 116 th Oav Ren
scattered enemy resistance. Progress was Sq, Mecz, reinforced, made the first com
impeded by dense enemy A.T. and A.P.
plete passage through the SIEGFRIED
minefields, demolislhieid forMges, road
LINE in the Seventh Army sector and
blocks and craters. Co X, 253rd Infantry captured the town of ST. INGBERT.
and 63rd Cay Ren Troop, Mecz, were
relieved from attachment to the 101st (8) For detailed account of these ope
Cay Gp, Mecz at 200730 A. rations, see Inclosure No. 2.
(4) At 201000 A, Tr A, 116th Cay Ren d. In accordance with Opns Instns No.
Sq, Mecz, atchd 1 Plat Tr E and 1 Plat 44, Headquarters XXI Corps, 21 March
Co F, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, Captain 1945; the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, was
Albert Burgess, Commanding, was assign relieved of attachment to the 63rd InfDiv
ed the mission of moving rapidly to the and ordered to assemble vicinity of
23
24
BITCHE, FRANCE. Troop A, 101st Cay (2) Elements of the 101st Cay Ren Sq
Ren Sq, Mecz, was placed on detached and 116 th Cay Ren Sq moved from their
service with Headquarters Sixth Army respective assembly areas at 231330 A, and
Croup. The 93rd AFA (105 mm) was by nightt had reached the general line
relieved of attachment to the 101st Cay HINTER-WEIDENTHAL - LEIMAN. Hq
Gp, Mecz. The Group closed in its assem a Hq Tr, 101st Cay Gp., halted for the
bly area at 211900 A, Hq ®. Hq Tr, 101st night on the eastern outskirts of PIRMA
Cay Gp, Mecz, and 101st Cay Ren Sq, SENS.
Mecz, at ENCHENBERG, FRANCE, and (3) The mission was resumed early
116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, at LEMBERG, 24 March 1945, and all elements moved
FRANCE. forward against scattered enemy resi
c. In anticipation of a mission to stance which had been by-passed by the
reconnoiter the XXI Corps zone East of infantry divisions. The rugged character
PIRMASENS, GERMANY, route recon of the terrain, and the detailed reconais
naissance to that area were executed on sance required by the mission, made rapid
22 March 1945, by elements of the 101st progress impossible. Forward elements
and 116 th Cay Ren Sqs, Mecz. Elements reached the objective line at 241800 A,
of the Group which were not so employed, thus completing the mission at that hour.
devoted the day to maintenance and The 131st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, assembled
rehabilitation of equipment. vicinity of ELMSTEIN and the 116lh Cay
f. (1) German resistance West of the Ren, Sq, Mecz, at SARNSTALL. The
RHINE RIVER in the XXI Corps zone G^oup Command Post was established at
had collapsed. At 1200 A, 23 March 1945, FRANKENECK.
by VOCG. XXICorps, the 101st Cavalry (4) As a result of this operation, casu
Group, Mecz, was assigned the following alties were inflicted on the enemy and a
mission: total of 135 prisoners of war were taken.
"Move in Corps Zone behind 71st and Important enemy supply dumps, ammu
100 th Inf Div. Sweep Corpo Zone to the nition stores, weapons, hospitals and
line NEUSTADT - LANDAU, entering transport were found and reported to
each village and town, and traversing all higher headquarters for disposition. The
roads with particular attention to the condition of roads and bridges in the
South flank. Report each four hours, this Corps Zone was reported and the roads
headquarters giving location of leading were cleared of displaced persons. One
elements, conditions of roads and bridges, soldier in the Group was killed in action,
locations of enemy minefields, roadblocks none was wounded.
and other pertinent information. Maintain g. (1) Pursuant to Opms Instns No. 49,
contact with 71st and 100 fh InfDiv." This Headquarters XXICorps, 24 March 1945,
order was later confirmed by Opns Instns the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, undertook
No. 47, Headquarters XXI Corps, 23 the following mission on 25 March 1945:
March 1945.
-
The Corps -
boundaries were
delineated as follows: South WALSCH- "Assume responsibility for line of
BRAND HINTER-WEIDENTHAL communications in Corps Zone. Mop up
-
- -
ANNWEILER-LANDAU;North WALD
FICHBACK-ELMSTEIN LAMBRECHT
all remaining enemy elements in Corps Z
exclusive of division assembly areas.
NEUSTADT. Patrol all roads in Corps rear area,
25
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establish road blocks and control move and 608 prisoners of war were taken.
ment of all persons. Direct or transport Dines of communication within the Coips
all non-German nationals whether PWs Zone were protected, large quantities of
or displaced persons found on the roads enemy materiel were discovered and
to the DP centers located at PIRMASENS, safeguarded and all enemy in the Corps
KAISERSLAUTERN or NEUSTADT, or rear areas were mopped up. The Group
to the nearest town within the area suffered no casualty during this period.
capable of caring for them." h. At about 1200 A, 28 March 1945, the
(2) During the period 25 -27 March 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, was alerted
1945, ail uniis were engaged in ihe exe for movement on the following day to an
cution oi the mission noted in paragraph assembly area vicinity of LAMPERT
g (1) above within the limits oi ihe Corps HEIM, about 5 kms East of the RHINE
Zone as described in par F (1) above. RIVER. Quartering parties from all units
Road blocks and conuioi poims were were dispatched at once. On 29 March
established throughout the Corps Zone, 1945, the Group proceeded in one column,
MilitaryGovernment proclamations were crossing the RHINE RIVER through the
posted in all towns, weapons and other XV Corps bridgehead at WORMS and
contraband were impounded and displac closing in its assembly area at 291600 A.
ed persons were gathered into DP centers.
i. (1) At 291900 A, VOCG XXI Corps
MSRs and other lines of communication
were received assigning the following
were patrolled 24 hours a day. The Group mission to the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz:
continued to apprehend prisoners of war.
(3) A general eastward drift of indi "Move immediately and secure Army
bridgehead line in indicated zone, coor
vidual German soldiers and small bodies
of troops had been noted for the past dinating movement's with elements of
days. This movement was confined to XV Corps now operating therein. Main
tain contact with elements 10th ArmdDiv
the secondary roads which could not be
operating North of NECKAR RIVER.
kejpt under constant surveillance and
through the densely wooded mountain Upon being relieved or passed through
by elements of 4th Inf Div, assemble in
areas. On 28 March 1945, a screen was Corps reserve, prepared for immediate
-
established along the general line NEU
STADT LANDAU; the Assault Gun
move to protect Corps right (South) flank.
Report locations each two hours this
Troops and Tank Companies of both headquarters." This mission was later
squadrons being employed for this pur confirmed by Opns Instns No. 54, Head
pose. The remaining troops of each squa quarters XXICorps, 30 March 1945. The
dron moved out dismounted in their Seventh Army bridgehead area in the
respective zones from a second line about
15 kms west of the screen, thoroughly
- -
XXICorps Zone was bounded by the line
-
AMORBACH MUDAU REISENBACH
combing the intervening wooded and EBERBACH. Co A, 11th Engr (C) Bn
mountainous areas and driving all enemy was placed in direct support of the 101st
-
before them into the trap formed by the
NEUSTADT LANDAU screen.
Cavalry Group, Mecz.
(2) At 292400 A, the Group moved from
(4) As a result of operations during its assembly area in two columns, the
the period 25-28 March 1945, many 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, less Troop A,
casualties were inflicted upon the enemy attached 1 Plat Co A, 11th Engr (C) Bn,
27
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28
on the South, entering the hill masses Tr B, 101st Cay Ren Sq:
east of the RHINE RIVER known as the UNTERSCHEIDENTAL
ODENWALD at WEINHEIM, and the Hq a Hq Tr, 101st Cay Gp, Mecz, and
116th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, 1 Plat Co A, Tr B, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz:
11th Engr (C) Bn at end, on the North, SCHLOSSAU
entering at HEPPENHEIM. Hq and Hq Task Force, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz:
Tr, 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, atchd STEINBACH
1 Plat Tr B, 116th Cay Ren Sq, 1 Plat Tr C, 116th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz:
Co F and 1 Plat Tr E, 101st Cay Ren Sq, KIRCHZELL
Co A, 11th Engr (C) Bn (-), followed the Tr A, 116th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz:
101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz. AMORBACH
(3) Prior to departure from their 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz (-):
assembly areas, the 101st Cay Ren Sq, WURZBERG.
Mecz, organized two task forces, each
(6) As a result of our operations on
consisting of 1 Ren Tr reinforced by 1 plat
Lt Tanks and 1 Plat AGis, and the 116 th 30 March 1945, the enemy suffered serious
Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, organized losses in killed and wounded and 244 pri
three such soners of war were taken. The 101st Cay
forces. As the squadrons moved forward
and additional routes became available, Gp, Mecz, executed its mission and
task forces were detached from the main secured the Seventh Army bridgehead
bodies and dispatched to their assigned line in the XXI Corps Zone. Losses of
objectives. 5 wounded were sustained by the Group
in the day's operation.
(4) The terrain was extremely rugged
and all columns were forced to operate j. (1) Prior to nightfall 30 March 1945,
almost exclusively in narrow wooded motorized elements of the 4th Inf Div
valleys. Enemy resistance was limited to reached the 101st Cay Gp, Mecz, front
small but determined rear guards who lines and relieved it of responsibility for
sought to delay the advance of all task continued defense of the Seventh Army
forces by means of defended road blocks, bridgehead line. On the morning 31 March
destroyed bridges and other obstacles. 1945, Opns Instns No. 55 issued from
Enemy air continually harassed Headquarters XXI Corps. The 101st Ca
all
columns throughout the day. Hq and Hq valry Group, Mecz, was directed to con
Troop, 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, rein
forced, left the 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, (exel)
- NEUSTADT
-
tinue its advance to the line HOCHSTADT
ROTHENBERG
and to coordinate its advance east of the
axis at MICHELBACH and formed a
sixth task force. This force shot down an Corps objective withRen elms of the 12th
enemy ME 109 vicinity of Armored Division operating to the North.
BEERFELDEN.
(5) By late afternoon, 30 March 1945, (2) The 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, con
all units had reached the objective line. tinued to operate in the southern part of
Troops were disposed as follows: the Group Zone and the 116 th Cay Ren
Sq, Mecz, in the northern. A special task
Tr C, 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz (-): force comprised of elements of the 116 th
OBERDIELBACH Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, under the command
1 Plat Tr C, 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz: of Major Robert D. Feagin, Jr., E. O. of
STRUMPFELBRUNN that squadron, was formed and operated
101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz (-) directly under Headquarters 101st
OBERSCHEIDENTAL Cavalry Group, Mecz, along the axis
29
GRUNSFELD
-
IPPERSHEIM
-NEU- BUCH AMHORN
-
HECKFELD - TAU
STADT in the center of the Group Zone. BERBISHOFSHEIM.
Hq a Hq Tr, 101st Cay Gp, Mecz, atchd 6. MISCELLANEOUS.
1 Plat Tr B, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz,
a. Lt Col Hubert C. Leonard was
1 Plat Co F, 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, returned to duty 12 March 1945 and
and 1 Plat Tr E 101sit Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, resumed command of the 116 th Cay Ren
formed another task force and operated Sq, Mecz. Major Robert D. Feagin, Jr.,
on the right of Task Force Feagin. All reverted to his previous assignment as
elements of the Group were instructed to executive officer of that squadron.
proceed aggressively, by-pass enemy resi
stance where possible and reach the ob b. Total casualties of the 101st Cavalry-
jective line with the least possible delay.
Group, Mecz, are: 1-31 Total to 31
March 45 March 45
(3) Hq a Hq Tr, 101st Cay Gp, Mecz,
reinforced, and Task Force Feagin moved
Killedin Action ..
Wounded in Action 52
11 16
67
out at about 311200 A. Due to the time Missing in Action 3 6
consumed in transmitting orders to the c. Prisoners ofWar 1190 1199
101st and 116th Cay Ren Sqs, Mecz, whose d. The 101st and 116th Cay Ren Sqs,
command posts were located at a con Mecz, were attached to this headquarters
siderable distance from the Group CP, throughout the period covered by this
those units were unable to undertake the report.
new mission until about 311400 A. Stiffen
ing enemy resistance was encountered by
all elements of the Group. Artillery and
nebelwerfer fire were employed by the
enemy in the defense of road blocks and
demolitions, and full advantage of the
defensive character of the terrain was
taken to inflictmaximum delay. By night CHARLES B. MoCLELLAND
31 March 1945, elements of the Group Colonel, Cavalry
had reached the line EUBIGHEIM Commanding.
*****<*
MARCH INCLOSURE No. 1
HOSTENBACH, GERMANY.)
1. General Situation:
70 InfDiv, on the 101st Cay Gp right, had
a. Elements of XXI Corps occupied
positions south and southwest of the
cleared the city of FORBACH and was
entering the towns of STIRING WEN
-
- -
SAAR RIVER in the SAAREGUEMINES
FORBACH WADGASSEN area. Pur
DEL and PETITE ROSSELLE.
suant to Opn Instr. No. 26, XXI Corps, b. Elements of the Third Army occu
1 March 1945, 63rd and! 70th Inf Divs pied defensive positions along the south
\u25a0were attacking in their respective zones bank of the SAAR RIVER on the 101st
and toy the morning df 13 March 1945, the Cay Gp left flank.
30
2. Special Situation: confirmed by PWs, indicated that the
towns of GEISLAUTERN and WEHRDEN
a. 101st Cay Gp, Mecz, reinforced, were garrisoned by the 2nd Bn, 861 Volks
-
oocupied defensive positions along the
line EMMERSWEILLER WADGASSEN,
grenadier Regiment and that the Ist Bn,
861 Volksgrenadier Regiment, occupied
GERMANY, both exclusive, and was the towns of SCHAFFHAUSEN and HO
prepared to attack to the north on Corps STENBACH. The total enemy strength in
order to clear all enemy south and south the Group zone was estimated at 800 men,
west of the SAAR RIVER in zone. supported by the defensive works on the
b. Plans previously prepared by Hq north bank of the SAAR RIVER.
101st Cay Gp assigned Hill 283 and the c. Information obtained from PWs in
towns of GEISLAUTERN and WEHRDEN the late afternoon, 13 March 1945, indi
to the 101st Cay Ren Sq Mecz, LtCol Mil cated that the enemy in the 101st Cay Gp
ton Kendall, commanding, as objectives. zone planned to assemble that night and
SCHAFFHAUSEN and HOSTENBACH withdraw to the north bank of the SAAR
were the assigned objectives of the 116 th RIVER.
Cay Ren Sq Mecz, Lt Col Hubert C.
Leonard, commanding. 3. Narrative:
c. (1) Hill283 was the dominating ter a. At 1800 A, 13 March 1945, C. O. 101st
rain feature in the Group zone. This hill
Cay Gp Mecz, directed the 101st Cay Ren
was protected by elaborate defensive Sq to dispatch a strong combat patrol to
works and dense AT and AP mine fields. Hill 283 and another north along the
Entry into, or possession of, WEHRDEN LUDWEILER- GEISLAUTERN road with
was impracticable while Hill283 remain the mission of gaining and maintaining
ed in enemy hands. The approaches to contact with the enemy. At the same date
GEISLAUTERN lent themselves to effec and hour, the 116th Cay Ren Sq was
tive defense in depth from strong points directed to send a similar patrol to the
located in the houses lining both sides of town of SCHAFFHAUSEN to determine
the single street. strength, composition, and dispositions of
enemy forces. Both Squadrons were aler
(2) The approach to the town of ted for an early attack.
SCHAFFHAUSEN necessitated movement
either 'by a single road or across gently b. (1) At 2045 A, one platoon Tr A,
sloping terrain, both of which were 101st Cay Ren Sq, 1 squad Co C, 290th
Engr (C) Bn atchd, Ist Lt Robert Ulm
totally devoid of cover or concealment
for a distance of more than 1000 meters. schneider, commanding, proceeded through
Hill283 also dominated all approaches to the enemy mine fields and defensive
that town from the south and east. Enemy works and reached Hill 283 (the patrol
defenses consisted of entrenchments, fox objective) undetected, and there held its
holes, strong points located in houses on position for the remainder of the night.
The balance of the troop attempted to
the southern fringe of town, and several
broad belts of AT and AP mines. The follow, but was repulsed by strong enemy
town of HOSTENBACH was dominated resistance. The troop commander, Captain
by elaborate defensive works on the high Ralph Ritchie, was wounded but refused
ground north of the SAAR RIVER. evacuation. Lt Ulmschneider directed ar
tillery fire during the night on enemy
d. Information previously obtained defensive positions vicinity of Hill 283
from reliable sources, and repeatedly causing numerous enemy casualties.
31
(2) At the same hour, one platoon Tr Ralph Ritchie, commanding, attacked
C, 101st Cay Ren Sq, 1 squad Co C, 290th astride Hill283 and, after severe fighting,
Engr (C) Bn atchd, Lt Harold Meyer, reached its objective. Capt Ritchie was
WEILER
-
commanding, advanced down the LUD
GEISLAUTERN road and
evacuated after sustaining his third
wound in the action and Lt Robert Ulm
successfully negotiated enemy road cra schneider assumed command of the unit.
ters and AT AP mine fields, neutralizing The success of this attack can be attri
these obstacles as the patrol moved for buted in a large measure to the courage
ward. The patrol was stopped by strong ous action of LtUlmschneider in directing
enemy MG and mortar fire at the southern friendly artillery fire from his position
edge of GEISLAUTERN and was forced on the shoulder of Hill 283 on enemy
to withdraw to LUDWEILER. The patrol forces not more than 100 yards distant
was reinforced by 1plat Co F, 101st Cay from him.
Ren Sq. Thus strengthened, it resumed (2) Tr B, 101st Cay Ren Sq, 1 plat Tr
its mission, overcame several enemy E, 101st Cay Ren Sq atchd, Capt Abraham
strong points and entered the town of Friedman, commanding, attacked in a
GEISLAUTERN. northeasterly direction on Tr A's right
(3) At about 00158, 14 March 1945, one along the heavily wooded south and
platoon Tr B, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, 2nd Lt southeasterly slopes of Hill 283. This unit
Joseph Borkowski, commanding, proceeded encountered a well concealed and closely
through the dense enemy AT and AP sown enemy schu mine field and, after
mine fields and defensive works, and suffering seven serious casualties within
entered the town of SCHAFFHAUSEN. a few minutes, was forced to withdraw
Movement therein was made extremely and change the direction of its attack.
hazardous by the profusion of booby In spite of the density of the mine field,
traps and AP mines. At about 04308, the all wounded were successfully evacuated
patrol mission was extended, and the under the personal direction of Ist Lt
platoon continued through the town of John M. Sullivan of that unit.
HOSTENBACH and took positions along
the south bank of the SAAR RIVER, thus (3) Tr C, 101st Cay Ren Sq, 1 plat Co
effectively blocking allavenues of escape F, 101st Cay Ren Sq, and 1 plat Tr E
r
for the enemy then remaining south of 101st Cay Ren Sq atchd, Capt August
the SAAR RIVER in the 116 th Cay Ren Bielss, commanding, attacked mounted
-
along the LUDWEILER GEISLAUTERN"
Sq zone. Contact was established with
patrols of adjacent units on the Squadron road. Movement was canalized by the
left. The action of this patrol, which nature of the terrain and the troop- ad
accomplished its mission with complete vanced slowly against determined enemy
success and without a single casualty, rear guard action.
may toe attributed to the bold and skillful (4) By nightfall, 14 March 1945, Trs A
leadership of Lt Borkowski. and B, 101st Cay Ren Sq, held all of Hill
c. At 07308, 14 March 1945, the 101st 283 and Tr C, 101st Cay Ren Sq had com
Cay Ren Sq launched a coordinated attack plected the mopping up of GEISLAU
to reduce all enemy resistance south and TERN.
southwest of the SAAR RIVER in the d. The 116 th Cay Ren Sq quickly and
Squadron zone. successfully exploited the success of Lt
(1) Tr A, 101st Cay Ren Sq, Co F, 101st Borkowiski's patrol and at about 05008, 14=
Cay Ren Sq (less 1 plat) atchd, Capt March 1945, launched a piece-meal attack
32
dismounted against the towns of SCHAFF town of WEHRDEN and eliminated all
HAUSEN and HOSTENBACH, employing enemy resistance south of the SAAR
Tr A, Capt Alfred Burgess, commanding, RIVER in the Squadron zone. Tr C, 116th
and Tr B, Captain Augustine Littleton, Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, cleared the critical
commanding, in the action. The use of -
area vicinity of the WEHRDEN VOLK-
armor in this attack was precluded by LINGEN bridge in the face of particularly
the heavy mine fields protecting all heavy observed fire from enemy positions
approaches to the Squadron objectives. in the town of VOLKLINGEN. Forward
Both troops moved quickly to their objec elements of all units received heavy
tives and by 13008, mopping up had been machine gun and mortar fire from enemy
completed, the south bank of the SAAR positions on the north bank throughout
RIVER had been occupied, and contact the entire operation.
was established with the 101st Cay Ren 4. Results of Operation:
Sq left. Tr C, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Captain a. All enemy resistance south and
Louis Bossert, commanding, was held in
southwest of the SAIAR RIVER in the
reserve until 19008, at which time it was 101st Cay Gp zone eliminated.
attached to the 101st Cay Ren Sq. This
attack is particularly noteworthy in-as b. Towns of GEISLAUTERN, WEHR
much as heavy losses were inflicted upon DEN, SCHAFFHAUSEN and HOSTEN
the enemy, a substantial number of PWs BACH captured.
were taken and both objectives seized c. Corps front line in Group zone
and held at a cost of one officer wounded. rectified and shortened.
d. Many casualties inflicted upon the
c. The 101st Cay Ren Sq, Tr C, 116 th enemy and 54 PWs captured.
Cay Ren Sq atchd, resumed operations at
about 04308, 15 March 1945; and by 5. Losses sustained:
GERMANY.)
SAAREGUEMINES
-
g. At 201030 A, the 101st Cay Gp Mecz, that date and hour. The 101st Cay Ren
received the mission to sweep the area Sq Mecz, assembled at ESHRENGEN and
-
BREBACH RENTRISCH ENSHEIM
- - the 116 th Cay Ren Sq Mecz, at BUBIN
ST. INGBERT and to protect the west GEN. The 93rd AFA Bn was relieved of
flank of the 63rd Inf Div. The sweeping attachment to 'the 101st Cay Gp Mecz, at
mission was completed by 2135 A. Only 210600 A.
light enemy resistance was encountered. 4. Results of Operation:
The Group was relieved of its responsibi a. Occupied and defended positions
lity for the division west flank at 202359 A.
facing Siegfried Line from ENSHEIM to
h. Upon relief by elements of the 63rd GUDINGEN, GERMANY, from 16-20
Inf Div at ST. INGBERT, Tr A, 116 th March 1945.
Cay Ren Sq Mecz, reinforced, was direct
b. Swept zone BREBACH
- RENT
ed to screen the division left flank along - -
RISCH ENSHEIM ST. INGBERT.
the BREBACH - ST. INGBERT road and
to extend reconnaissance 2 kms to the c. Made first complete passage through
west and northwest. Contact was made the Siegfriedi Line in Seventh Army Sec
with a dismounted patrol of Tr B, 116 th. tor and captured ST. INGBERT.
Cay Ren Sq Mecz, at 1915Aand the screen d. Inflicted many casualties upon the
was completely established by 2125 A. enemy and captured 104 PWs.
i. The 101st Cay Gp Mecz, was released 5. Losses sustained:
from control of the 63rd Inf Div at 3 killed and 11 wounded (exclusive of
202359 A and reverted to XXI Corps at those suffered by 63rd Cay Ren Tr Mecz).
36
£tppil
JL he first day of April dawned beautifully. It was Easter Sunday. The Group
moved forward in several columns, meeting little resistance until they reached the
west bank of the TAUBER RIVER. Suddenly the enemy lashed out with every
weapon at his disposal. He was dug-in along the high ground east of the river.
Crossings were made under a canopy of "Screeming Meemee's" (Nebelwerfer fire)
which exploded in great clouds of smoke pierced by thousands of fragments from
the size of a pinhead to large gouging chunks. Jet propelled planes which appeared
to move faster than their new and peculiar roaring sound now took up the attack.
They bombed and strafed, coming back again and again, until the nerve centers of
each and every man were reacting on a split-second basis as animal instinct thrust
aside the slower moving processes of reason. The columns finally pushed ahead and
engaged the enemy on his own ground. Thus, the curtain rose most prophetically on
the month of April.
37
Division to which the Group had become attached several days earlier. The Cavalry
crossed to the South shore ahead of the Division on the morning of the 24th of
April... and the race southward was on!
Outstanding Tactical Operation
One of the forward units fired on an enemy officer courier who, apparently
unhurt, abandoned his vehicle and escaped in the woods. Official maps and documents
found in his dispatch case revealed the enemy's plans for a counterattack against
units on the group's right flank. It was discovered that & key highway along the
Mindel River was being used by the enemy as a boundary between units and therefore
it offered possibilities for swift penetration. This assumption proved correct and the
Cavalry proceeded to spearhead 'the 12th Armored deep into enemy territory, cutting
the 13th SS Korps main supply routes; seizing bridges over the WERTACH RIVER;
generally disorganizing enemy communications and other rear installations and,
finally, causing the SS to breakoff their counterattack and withdraw in confusion.
This was one otf the outstanding tactical operations of the war on the Seventh
Army front and the part played by the Mechanized Cavalrymen was a magnificant
demonstration of their true worth in modern combat.
Resistance Collapses
The Group's movement forward was so swift that complete surprise was achieved
time and again. Enemy airports with hundreds of planes were captured intact,
including the "Jets" which had harrassed every step of the way for days past. One
could almost "feel" the moment when the heart went out of the opposing troops.
The utteir eollap'se of the German unlits came more as an anti-climiax than as a
surprise. Prisoner of War pens began to bulge with men. Some were downcast and
others were happy just to be alive. Thousands more began to pour back along
every road.
40
HEADQUARTERS
21 June 1945.
-
1. In accordance with the provisions of AR 345 105, dated 18 No
vember 1929, and Change 4, dated 10 August 1944; letter Hq ETOUSA,
subj: "Handling of Historical Documents in the European Theater of
Operations", file AG 312.1 Op History, dated 14 July 1944, and Section
IV, Circular No. 34, Headquarters Seventh Army, dated 28 November
1944, the following report is submitted.
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through the close of the period and the (3) Task Force Feagin, comprised of
3-*2rid Armored Field Artillery Bn. was Tr B, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, (-), 1 Plat
attached or in direct support from 14 each of Tr E and Co F, 116 th Cay Ren
April through the end of the month. Sq, Mecz, moved through TAUBER
Other attachments and detachments are BISCHOFSHEIM against light resistance
noted as they occured. and, after crossing the TAUBER RIVER,
5. Narrative History: turned south on the east bank against
a. (1) The XXI Corps, comprised of very strong opposition. Hq and Hq Tr,
the 4th amd 42nd Infantry Divisions, the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, attached
12th Armored Division, the 101st Cavalry 1 Plat Tr B, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz,
Group, Mecz, and other Corps troops, had and 1 Plat each of Tr E and Co F, 101st
Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, pushed through to
crossed the RHINE RIVER 29 March 1945,
LAUDA but was halted at that point by
and was moving rapidly east with the
mission of seizing WURZBURG, and heavy enemy automatic weapon, small
crossings over the MAINRIVER south of arms, and nebelwerfer fire from the high
that point. ground east of the TAUBER RIVER. A
heavy fire fight ensued. The combined
(2) The 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, pressure of Task Force Feagin from the
-
was deployed -
along the line EUBIG
HEIM BUCH am HORN HECKFELD
- north, and the fire power of Hq and Hq
Tr, 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, reinfor
TAUBERBISCHOFSHEIM at the close ced, drove the enemy off the forward
of operations 31 March 1945, with the slopes facing LAUDA,enabling the latter
line HOCHSTADT
-
GRUNSFELD
- IPPERSHEIM
-
The central axis of the Group zone was
NEU
DISTELHAUSEN and the Group CP was
established in that town.
STADT. All elements had been encoun (4) Task Force Feagin, followed by the
tering stiffening enemy resistance on
30 - 31 March 1945. balance of the USth Cay Ren Sq, Mecz,
(less* Troop A), which had crossed! the
b. (1) The 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, TAUBER RIVER at TAUBERBISCHOFS
moved forward on a broad front at first HEIM, turned east at DISTELHAUSEN
light 1 April 1945. Determined enemy and prooeded to GRUNSFELD. By night,
resistance
-
line UNTER-SCHUPF - -
was encountered along the
BECKSTEIN
reconnaissance against very strong enemy
resistance had been extended by the
OBERLAUDA STEINBACH DITTEN 116th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, to ZIMMERN.
HEIM.
(5) The 101st Cay Ren. Sq, Mecz, less
(2) Troop A, 116th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, Tr A, advanced rapidly against scattered
operating in (the extreme northern part
of the Group zone, by-passed enemy resi BACK UNTERSCHAUPF
-
enemy resistance to the line DAIN
-
HECK
stance en route and toy 011300 A, had FELD, but encountered very strong
reached GIEBELSTADT. It was ordered enemy resistance on the high ground
to remain in position pending develope west of BAD MERGENTHEIM. At 011600
ments in the central and southern por CO. 101st Oav Gp, Mecz, directed1 the
tions of the Group zone. Squadron to discontinue reconnaissance
43
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44
in its assigned
zone and assemble at (2) The 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, (less
TiAUBERBISCHOFSHEIM.
-
along the line SINDOLSHEIM
-
Tr A) was assigned the screening mission
BOX
(6) At 011445 A, <the following VOCG BERG TAUBER RIVER vie BAD MER-
XXI Corps was received at DISTEL GENTHEIM. The 116th Gay Ren Sq,
HAUSEN: Mecz, was given the remainder of the
"Relieved of mission assigned in line extending from TAUBER RIVER vie
OI 55, this headquarters, atchd 4th BAD MERGENTHEIM to OCHENSFURT.
Inf Div effective at once. Establish Command posts were established as fol
liaison with 4th Inf Div at once. lows:
'Assemble as directed by CG 4th Inf
Div." 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz:
DISTELHAUSEN,
KUPPRICHHAUSEN,
(7) Enemy air harrassed all elements (3) On 2 April 1945, Ihe 101st Cay Ren
of Ihe Group throughout the day. Sq, Mecz, deployed along its assigned line
(8) As a result of operations on 31 again meeting determined resistance west
March - 1 April 1945, the 101st Cavalry of BAD MERGENTHEIM. Task Force
Feagin disolved and its elements reverted
Group, Mecz, advanced more than 30 kms
against varying degrees of enemy resi to the 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz. Tr A,
stance, determined the contour of the 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, atchd 1 Plat
enemy
MERGENTHEIM
-
-
46
GELCHSHEIM,
47
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48
RIVER. The Group was reinforced by-
Co A, 23rd Tank Bn (M) and the 495 HEIM
-WEIGENSHEIM PFAFFEN
-
directed- to attack in the direction IPPES
Armored Field Artillery Bn was placed HOFEN GATTENHOFFEN and thence
in direct support. The 92nd Cay Ren Sq, northwest, destroying the enemy in zone
Mecz, operated in a contiguous zone on of 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz. CC-B was
the Group left. directed to execute a similar penetration
(2) The 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, (-), and encircling maneuver in the zone of
attached 1 plat Co A, 23rd Tank Bn (M), the 92nd Cay Ren Sq, Mecz. The 101st
Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, was ordered to
operated on the right (west) portion of
the Group zone, and the 116 Cay Ren assemble vicinity of GEISSLINGEN pre
Sq, Mecz, attached Co A, 23rd Tank Bn pared to follow CC-R through the gap
(M), less 1 plat, on the left. Both Squa and continue on the reconnaissance mis
drons moved forward against determined sion to the limiting line. The 116th Cay
enemy resistance and by night 8 April, Ren Sq, Mecz, was directed to continue
the 101st Cay Ren Sq Mecz, had reached to exert maximum pressure against the
the TAUBER and GOLLACH RIVER enemy defending along the GOLLACH
lines in its zone. All bridges over the RIVER line.
TAUBER RIVER had been destroyed. (5) The 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, with
The 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, was unable drew from its positions along the TAU
to reach the GOLLACH RIVER in its BER RIVER and moved promptly to its
zone and halted for the night along the assembly area vicinity of GEISSLINGEN.
line GULCHSHEIM-RODHEIM-HERRN The 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, continued
-
BERCHTHEIM IPPESHEIM. to press to the south and by night 9 April
(3) Both Squadrons resumed operations 1945, was attacking AUB, LIPPRICH
early 9 April.Troop B, 101st Cay Ren Sq, HAUSEN, and GECKENHEIM. During
Mecz, forded the TAUBER RIVER vici the night 9-10 April, the enemy counter
nity of TAUBERRETERSHEIM and pe attacked at GULCHSHEIM and OLLIN
netrated about 2 kms southeast into the GIN but was beaten of after inflicting
enemy's defensive positions in that area minor damage to materiel.
against strong resistance and gained Bill (6) On the morning of 10 April, CC-R
394. Troop C, 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, launched its attack but was stopped at
exerted pressure on enemy holding forces IPPESHEIM by fierce resistance from
at BURGERROTH and BALDERSHEIM the town and enemy positions in the
but was; unable to move forward. After wooded hills to the east. The 116 th Cay
overcoming stiff enemy resistance, ele Ren Sq, Mecz, continued its attack
ments of the 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, throughout the day but made no appre
cleared the towns of GULCHSHEIM, ciable gains. Combat patrols maintained
RODHEIM, and HERRNBERCHTHEIM. contact with the enemy throughout the
(4) Based on the very determined resi night. The 101st Cay RcnSq, Mecz, moved
stance encountered by all elements of the to a forward assembly position vicinity
101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, and by the of HERRNBERCHTHEIM.
92nd Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, on the Group's (7) (a) Allelements renewed the attack
left, coupled with PW reports and other at first light 11 April, the 101st Cay Ren
indications, CG, 12th Armored Division Sq, Mecz, moving forward and protect
decided to commit CC-B and CC-R. Opns ing the left flank of CC-R as it broke
Instns No. 38, 12th Armored Division through at IPPESHEIM and moved south
issued at 0916008, April 1945. CC-R was east against continued strong resistance.
49
Friendly Infantry relieved elements of raided again at dawn by enemy jet pro
the 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, at BAL pelled planes, several bombs were dropp
DERSHEIM and AUB. The 116 th Cay ed and the town was straffed. One man
Ren Sq, Mecz, continued toexert pressure was killed.
on enemy positions north of the GOL (8) (a) The attack was resumed by all
LACH RIVER. elements early 12 April. CC-R had broken
(b) At 10008, CO., 101st Cavalry the hard core of enemy resistance on its
Group, Mecz, ordered a coordinated axis and moved rapMly south through
attack against GOLLHOFEN, which town NEUHERBERG and MORLBACH and
blocked the principal north-south axis then turned west and northwest through
in the Group zone. Troop C, 116 th Cay REICHARDROTH and EQUIARHOFEN.
Ren Sq, Mecz, attached 1 plat each of (b) The 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, moved
Troop E, and Co F, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, south on the Left flank of CC-R until it
Mecz, and 1 plat Co A, 23rd Tank Bn turned west at MORLBACH and then
(M), attacked from the northwest. Co F, resumed its zone reconnaissance mission,
101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, attached 1 plat as outlined in par 3 d (4) above, against
Troop B, and 2 plats TRE, lOls't Cay Ren severe enemy resistance. By dark, ad
Sq, Mecz, and 1plat Co A, 23rd Tank Bn
(M), attacked from the northeast. Enemy -
line BURGBERNHEIM (excl.) OTTEN
-
vance elements had reached the general
50
ADELSHOFEN but was forced to with
draw. Troop B, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz,
was repulsed in every effort to by-pass
enemy resistance at STEINACH.
(c) Aft 08308, a representative of the
Burgermeister of UFFENHEIM reported
that the enemy garrison at that town had
retreated at 03008, and elements of
Troop C, 116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, entered
the town at once. Hq and Hq Tr, 101st
Cavalry Group, Mecz, moved its CP from
OBER-ICKELSHEIM to UFFENHEIM,
occupying the town at 1100 A.
(10) During the operations 8-13 Apr
the 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, reconno
tered a zone 30 kms wide to a depth o
25 kms in the face of determined an
often fierce enemy resistance, outlined th
--
contour of the enemy's MLR along th
Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, continued aggressive line ADELSHOFEN STEINACH
reconnaissance to the southeast against BURGBERNHEIM WINDSHEIM, in
stiff enemy resistance. At 10508, forward fiioted many casualties upon the enem
elements reported a concentration of destroyed important quantities of h
enemy self-propelled guns and tanks at materiel and captured 384 prisoners o
ILLESHEIM and a camouflaged air field war. Losses sustained were 5 killed, 2
in that vicinity. The Squadron command wounded. None was missing.
element arid reserve were attacked in c. (1) At 23008, 13 April 1945, verbal
force vicinity of PFAFFENHOFEN by orders were received through CG 12th
2 companies of enemy infantry supported Armored Division relieving the 101st Cay
by Mark V tanks and self-propelled guns. Ren Sq, Mecz, from attachment to the
The attacking force was driven off with 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, and attaching
minor losses to the Squadron. The enemy it to the 4th Infantry Division, such
infantry suffered heavy casualties, one attachment to become effective at 1406008
Mark V tank and four self-propelled guns April. (See Inclosure No. 1 for account
were destroyed. By dark, forward of -101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, during period
-
elements were disposed along the line
BURGBERNHEIM WINDSHEIM, both
14 19 April 1945.)
(2) (a) In accordance with Opnis Instns
exCl. Fierce enemy resistance made
further progress impossible. Contact with
No. 39, Headquarters 12th Armored Divi
sion, 1404008 April 1945, all elements of
the enemy was maintained during the the division and attached troops were
night. alerted to exploit on 3 hours notice be
- -
(b) The 116th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, ginning 1406008 in the zone: West bound
51
MAP X»
—
Showing Area of Opns
101st CavGp (Mecz)
18 Apr 19 Apr 1945
52
DORF thence by passing NURNBERG to elements of the Squadron crossed at
the west and south via KORNBERG and 17008 via a ford vicinity of LENKERS
FEUCHT and thence sooth on the auto HEIM and by a bridge vicinity of IPPES
bahn to HILPOSTEIN. HEIM which had been repaired by
(b) CC-B followed by CC-A was civilianlabor. Reconnaissance was pushed
directed to move south on the axis along forward in the assigned zone against
the east Iboundary. CC-R followedby the small arms and automatic weapons fire
division command group was ordered to from the high ground southeast of the
operate on the axis along the west boun river. At dark forward elements had
dary. The 101st Cavalry Group, Mecz, reached WEIMERSHEIM and ICKELS-
(Less 101st Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, and Troop HEIMbut were withdrawn to LENKERS-
B, 116th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz) attached HEIM for the night.
92nd Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, (less 2 rcn tr), (b) As there was no suitable crossing
342nd Armored Field Artillery Bn, and in the zone of the 92nd Cay Ren Sq,
2 plats mcdl tanks, 43rd Tank Bn, was Mecz, Troops A and D of that organi
directed to -move in the zone between the zation crossed via the bridge at IPPES
axis of CC-B and CC-R to the objective HEIM. During the crossing, the enemy
-
line ELLJNGEN HILPOSTEIN and to counterattacked from the high ground
destroy all enemy encountered. Upon 1 km to the southeast, but were beaten
reaching the objective line, the Group off at 19408 with a loss to the enemy of
was to be prepared to continue the attack one tank destroyed and two damaged.
to the southeast or to attack to the north The advance continued against scattered
or south on division order. All elements enemy resistance from positions on the
of the division and attached troops were high ground to the front and the Squa
53
(c) Doth Squadrons moved rapidly cleared of enemy and was outposted for
southeast against light resistance and by the night.
night were disposed along the north bank (c) Hq and Hq Tr, 101st Cavalry
of the ZINN RIVER, elements of the Group, Mecz, moved from LENKERS
116 th Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, at TRAUTS HEIM to MERZBACH and thence to
KIROHEN .and elements of the 92nd Cay TRAUTSKIRCHEN.
Ren Sq, Mecz, at ALT-SELINGSBACH (6) Enemy strength in the Group zone
and ALT-ZIEGENRUC. appeared to foe disintegrating, and on
(d) Hq and Hq Tr, 101st Cavalry 17 April resistance was offered only at
Group, Mecz, moved from HUMP certain crossings over the BIBERT
RECHTSAU to WINDSHEIM and thence RIVER, while others within a few kilo
to LENKERSHEIM. Enemy air forces meters were undefended. The 116 th Cay
were very active throughout the day. Ren Sq, Mecz, crossed at LEONROD and
received heavy fire from the woods to
Ia)
determined to be the easiest to repair ment resulted in an unopposed crossing
he zone of the 116 th Cay Ren Sq, 1 km to the northeast at KEHLMUNZ.
z, and accordingly the main effort of At 17308, the Squadron attacked HEIL
organization wias directed to securing BRONN and, after entering the northern
ridgehead at that point. By 14308, outskirts!, was forced to withdraw by
strong enemy resistance south of intense enemy automatic weapons, pan
had been neutralized, zerfauG't and mortar fire. The 92nd Cay
a treadway bridge was constructed Ron Sq, Mecz, proceeded southeast in its
lout delay. Troop C followed by zone overcoming such scatteredi resistance
Dip A, 116 th CavßcnSq, Mecz, crossed as was encountered. Both Squadrons
moved southwest to DANBERS
ZH capturing the town at 15308. Both -
Phase Line No. 1 (ANSBACH
-
halted for the night along the Division
HEIL
s then turned southeast and, after BRONN NURNBERG road). The Group
leoming several defended roadblocks, CP moved from TRAUTSKIRCHEN to
ed NEUDORF at 20308. An enemy BETZENDORF.
mn marching toward that town was
>rised and dispersed with heavy ca
sualties by artillery and small ams fire.
(b) The 92nd Cay Ren Sq, Mecz, found
thle bridge at NEUHOF to have been
prepared for demolition, blocked by fallen
trees and strongly defended, but still
intact. After an all day battle, enemy
resistance was sufficiently weakened to
permit combat patrols to seize the bridge
and clear the demolition charges and
road block. At 18008, a crossing in force
was made and the Squadron fought its
way into the town. By 20308, it had been
54