Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
Yep, that seemed to be the problem...
World War II Daily: DDay to VEDay
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Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
Or so I recall hearing/reading. I think.
Wonder if you mean Higgins boats. Weren't LSTs mainly - key word mainly - used for vehicles such as tanks? Didn't they usually follow the personnel craft (Higgins) using a "path" where the infantry-carrying craft actually made it to shore? Following the smaller boats that beached increased the likelihood that the LST cargos could be unloaded onto land.
Or so I recall hearing/reading. I think.
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Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
You may be correct. I may be confusing the two. I know that the troop-carrying boats were the ones which troops really hated and it was for not making it to shore. Both my brothers were in the USAAF, and the attitude of the troops had percolated over to them, which means that it must have been a universal concern...Wonder if you mean Higgins boats. Weren't LSTs mainly - key word mainly - used for vehicles such as tanks? Didn't they usually follow the personnel craft (Higgins) using a "path" where the infantry-carrying craft actually made it to shore? Following the smaller boats that beached increased the likelihood that the LST cargos could be unloaded onto land.
Or so I recall hearing/reading. I think.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
Anyway, thanks to this thread for a great dad-memory moment.
My post is based on recollections of asking the question to my dad while watching movies such as "The Longest Day." He was a tank driver whose unit went ashore on June 8 at Utah Beach. I wasn't old/informed enough to ask followup questions, so there is the possibility that the "follow the smaller boats" plan was something that was figured out on-the-fly, so to speak.
Anyway, thanks to this thread for a great dad-memory moment.
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Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
Looking around on it, there are numerous mentions by the soldiers on drownings, but there don't seem to be hard numbers. In fact, this cite from Fox indicates the trouble in even getting accurate overall casualty numbers. LINK. For the heavier boats, numbers were available. Out of the 2400 tons of armament attempted to be landed at Omaha, exactly 100 tons were successfully landed. The others went straight to the bottom. Of the 29 amphibious tanks attempted to be landed at Omaha, only 2 made shore, and they were immediately destroyed. One thing I keep running across is the opinion that the Americans launched their landing craft too far out, 12 miles. The British, at Gold launched much closer in and landed a lot higher percentage of their men and materiel...
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
February 27, 1945: It’s Tuesday - today marks 38 weeks (266 days) since the D-Day Invasion at Normandy and the beginning of the liberation of Europe.
On the western front, Udem, Grieth, and Calcar fall to attacks by British and Canadian elements of the British 21st Army Group. The Rhine River is reached to the north-east of Calcar. Units of US 7th Corps (part of US 1st Army) cross the Erth River at Modrath, about 6 miles from Cologne, while other elements take Tollhausen, Esch, Grouven, Zieverich, Elsdorf, Wuellenrath, Berrendorf, Giesendorf, Heppendorf, Sindorf, Bergerhausen, Frangenheim, Vettweiss, Thum, Nideggen, Dickerscheid, and Giescheid. Farther south, two corps of US 3rd Army are converging on Trier, while other elements capture Heilhausen, Wissmannsdorf, Nattenheim, Fliessem, Masholder, Moetsch, Esslingen, Meckel, Gilzem, Niederweis, and Baldringen. US 9th Army continues pushing across the Roer River toward the Rhine, capturing Altmyhl, Myhl, Gerderath, Gerderhahn, Millich, Schauffenberg, Ratheim, Luchtenberg, Orsbeck, Wassenberg, Beeck, Wegberg, Rickelrath, Rheindahlen, Holzweiler, Kuckum, Keyenberg, Borschemich, Immerath, Pesch, Otzenrath, Opherten, Garzweiler, and Jackerath.
Private First Class Herman C. Wallace, in Company B, 301st Engineer Combat Battalion, 76th Infantry Division, steps on an S-mine during demining operations near Prümzurlay in western Germany. Knowing that if he tried to run away the mine would pop up and explode a few feet off the ground, thus endangering the soldiers near him, he deliberately remained standing on the mine until it detonated. Wallace was killed in the explosion, but the blast was confined to the ground and no other soldiers were injured. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor eight months later, on October 25, 1945. Here is his Medal Of Honor citation:
“He displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity. While helping clear enemy mines from a road, he stepped on a well-concealed S-type antipersonnel mine. Hearing the characteristic noise indicating that the mine had been activated and, if he stepped aside, would be thrown upward to explode above ground and spray the area with fragments, surely killing 2 comrades directly behind him and endangering other members of his squad, he deliberately placed his other foot on the mine even though his best chance for survival was to fall prone. Pvt. Wallace was killed when the charge detonated, but his supreme heroism at the cost of his life confined the blast to the ground and his own body and saved his fellow soldiers from death or injury.”
Over Axis territory, US 8th Air Force attacks Leipzig with 741 bombers, Halle with 314 bombers, and targets of opportunity with 31 bombers. US 15th Air Force attacks Augsburg and transportation targets in Austria. RAF Bomber Command sends 458 aircraft to attack Mainz during the day, 149 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen during the day, and 96 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight.
On the eastern front, elements of the Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front enter Pomerania, in Germany while 19th Army of Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front continues attacking toward Neustettin and the Baltic coast in an effort to cut off German 2nd Army. Soviet troops captured Baldenburg (now Bialy Bór, Poland) and Neustettin (now Szczecinek, Poland) in Pommern, Germany.
The rocket-boosted Messerschmitt Me.262C-1a made its maiden flight. Fitted with a Walter HWK rocket motor in the tail this machine, in trials, attained an altitude of 38,400 feet from a standing start in under 4.5 minutes.
Pictured: 70th Infantry Division mortar crew of D Company, 276th Infantry Regiment firing for effect during the battle for Forbach, France on February 27, 1945
Grave of Medal Oh Honor recipient Herman Wallace
Soviet heavy tanks, IS-2, 1 Belorussian Front, advancing German roads in February 1945
On Iwo Jima, the carriers of TF53 again add their support to the ships aiding the attacks of US 5th Amphibious Corps. The Marines secure Airfield Number 2 and continues to work to eliminate the three Japanese positions overlooking the airfield. The marines fail to dislodge the Japanese defenders.
M4 Sherman 'Cairo' disabled by land mine, Iwo Jima, Japan, Feb 1945; note heavy side planking meant to protect against demolition charges.
Gunnery Sergeant William G. Walsh, while leading his men against a fortified hill on February 27, 1945, throws himself on a hand grenade, sacrificing his life to save the lives of fellow Marines. For this heroic act, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. There is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Leader of an Assault Platoon, serving with Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-seventh Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 27 February 1945. With the advance of his company toward Hill 362 disrupted by vicious machine-gun fire from a forward position which guarded the approaches to this key enemy stronghold, Gunnery Sergeant Walsh fearlessly charged at the head of his platoon against the Japanese entrenched on the ridge above him, utterly oblivious to the unrelenting fury of hostile automatic weapons and hand grenades employed with fanatic desperation to smash his daring assault. Thrown back by the enemy's savage resistance, he once again led his men in a seemingly impossible attack up the steep, rocky slope, boldly defiant of the annihilating streams of bullets which saturated the area, and despite his own casualty losses and the overwhelming advantage held by the Japanese in superior numbers and dominate position, gained the ridge's top only to be subjected to an intense barrage of hand grenades thrown by the remaining Japanese staging a suicidal last stand on the reverse slope. When one of the grenades fell in the midst of his surviving men, huddled together in a small trench, Gunnery Sergeant Walsh in a final valiant act of complete self-sacrifice, instantly threw himself upon the deadly bomb, absorbing with his own body the full and terrific force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved his comrades from injury and possible loss of life and enabled his company to seize and hold this vital enemy position. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
February 27, 1945: It’s Tuesday - today marks 38 weeks (266 days) since the D-Day Invasion at Normandy and the beginning of the liberation of Europe.
On the western front, Udem, Grieth, and Calcar fall to attacks by British and Canadian elements of the British 21st Army Group. The Rhine River is reached to the north-east of Calcar. Units of US 7th Corps (part of US 1st Army) cross the Erth River at Modrath, about 6 miles from Cologne, while other elements take Tollhausen, Esch, Grouven, Zieverich, Elsdorf, Wuellenrath, Berrendorf, Giesendorf, Heppendorf, Sindorf, Bergerhausen, Frangenheim, Vettweiss, Thum, Nideggen, Dickerscheid, and Giescheid. Farther south, two corps of US 3rd Army are converging on Trier, while other elements capture Heilhausen, Wissmannsdorf, Nattenheim, Fliessem, Masholder, Moetsch, Esslingen, Meckel, Gilzem, Niederweis, and Baldringen. US 9th Army continues pushing across the Roer River toward the Rhine, capturing Altmyhl, Myhl, Gerderath, Gerderhahn, Millich, Schauffenberg, Ratheim, Luchtenberg, Orsbeck, Wassenberg, Beeck, Wegberg, Rickelrath, Rheindahlen, Holzweiler, Kuckum, Keyenberg, Borschemich, Immerath, Pesch, Otzenrath, Opherten, Garzweiler, and Jackerath.
Private First Class Herman C. Wallace, in Company B, 301st Engineer Combat Battalion, 76th Infantry Division, steps on an S-mine during demining operations near Prümzurlay in western Germany. Knowing that if he tried to run away the mine would pop up and explode a few feet off the ground, thus endangering the soldiers near him, he deliberately remained standing on the mine until it detonated. Wallace was killed in the explosion, but the blast was confined to the ground and no other soldiers were injured. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor eight months later, on October 25, 1945. Here is his Medal Of Honor citation:
“He displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity. While helping clear enemy mines from a road, he stepped on a well-concealed S-type antipersonnel mine. Hearing the characteristic noise indicating that the mine had been activated and, if he stepped aside, would be thrown upward to explode above ground and spray the area with fragments, surely killing 2 comrades directly behind him and endangering other members of his squad, he deliberately placed his other foot on the mine even though his best chance for survival was to fall prone. Pvt. Wallace was killed when the charge detonated, but his supreme heroism at the cost of his life confined the blast to the ground and his own body and saved his fellow soldiers from death or injury.”
Over Axis territory, US 8th Air Force attacks Leipzig with 741 bombers, Halle with 314 bombers, and targets of opportunity with 31 bombers. US 15th Air Force attacks Augsburg and transportation targets in Austria. RAF Bomber Command sends 458 aircraft to attack Mainz during the day, 149 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen during the day, and 96 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight.
On the eastern front, elements of the Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front enter Pomerania, in Germany while 19th Army of Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front continues attacking toward Neustettin and the Baltic coast in an effort to cut off German 2nd Army. Soviet troops captured Baldenburg (now Bialy Bór, Poland) and Neustettin (now Szczecinek, Poland) in Pommern, Germany.
The rocket-boosted Messerschmitt Me.262C-1a made its maiden flight. Fitted with a Walter HWK rocket motor in the tail this machine, in trials, attained an altitude of 38,400 feet from a standing start in under 4.5 minutes.
Pictured: 70th Infantry Division mortar crew of D Company, 276th Infantry Regiment firing for effect during the battle for Forbach, France on February 27, 1945
Grave of Medal Oh Honor recipient Herman Wallace
Soviet heavy tanks, IS-2, 1 Belorussian Front, advancing German roads in February 1945
On Iwo Jima, the carriers of TF53 again add their support to the ships aiding the attacks of US 5th Amphibious Corps. The Marines secure Airfield Number 2 and continues to work to eliminate the three Japanese positions overlooking the airfield. The marines fail to dislodge the Japanese defenders.
M4 Sherman 'Cairo' disabled by land mine, Iwo Jima, Japan, Feb 1945; note heavy side planking meant to protect against demolition charges.
Gunnery Sergeant William G. Walsh, while leading his men against a fortified hill on February 27, 1945, throws himself on a hand grenade, sacrificing his life to save the lives of fellow Marines. For this heroic act, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. There is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Leader of an Assault Platoon, serving with Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-seventh Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 27 February 1945. With the advance of his company toward Hill 362 disrupted by vicious machine-gun fire from a forward position which guarded the approaches to this key enemy stronghold, Gunnery Sergeant Walsh fearlessly charged at the head of his platoon against the Japanese entrenched on the ridge above him, utterly oblivious to the unrelenting fury of hostile automatic weapons and hand grenades employed with fanatic desperation to smash his daring assault. Thrown back by the enemy's savage resistance, he once again led his men in a seemingly impossible attack up the steep, rocky slope, boldly defiant of the annihilating streams of bullets which saturated the area, and despite his own casualty losses and the overwhelming advantage held by the Japanese in superior numbers and dominate position, gained the ridge's top only to be subjected to an intense barrage of hand grenades thrown by the remaining Japanese staging a suicidal last stand on the reverse slope. When one of the grenades fell in the midst of his surviving men, huddled together in a small trench, Gunnery Sergeant Walsh in a final valiant act of complete self-sacrifice, instantly threw himself upon the deadly bomb, absorbing with his own body the full and terrific force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved his comrades from injury and possible loss of life and enabled his company to seize and hold this vital enemy position. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
February 28, 1945: On the eastern front, the Canadian 1st Army attacking along the Rhine and into the Hochwald and Balberger forest. Further south, US 9th Army achieves a breakthrough near Erkelenz, Germany and captures Rogden, Wildenrath, Ophoven, Steinkirchen, Effeld, Birgelen, Rosenthal, Merbeck, Tetelrath, Arsbeck, Hardt, Heh, and Vorst while pushing toward the Rhine. US 1st Army expands the bridgeheads across the Roer River, capturing Glabach, Luxheim, Berg, and Abenden. Patton’s US 3rd Army also expands their bridgeheads across the Pruem River, captures Bitburg, Dausfeld,Lunebach, Lierfeld, Merlscheid, Dackscheid, Eilscheid, Waxweiler, Liessem, Niederweiler, Irsch, Roehl, Scharfbillig, Suelm, Dahlem, Trimport, Idenheim, Hofweiler, Ittelkyll, Idesheim, Helenenberg, Eisenach, Paschel, and Obersehr, and attacks toward Trier.
The US 7th Army is regrouping.
All quiet on French 1st Army front along the Rhine.
The 19th Army of Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front captures Neustettin, Germany (now Szczecinek, Poland).
In Italy, US 12th Air Force aircraft attack transportation targets, supply dumps, and other targets while US 15th Air Force attacks transportation targets in northern Italy.
Pictured: Men of Company C, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, US 1st Infantry Division marching toward Frauwüllesheim, Germany, after crossing the Roer River, February 28, 1945
British on M4 ARV armored recovery vehicle (based on the American M4 Sherman medium tank) passing a disabled heavy German Sturmtiger self-propelled artillery which was abandoned and captured by US troops.
American tank driver, Pvt. Willie Blow, poses for a portrait somewhere near the front line action in Germany, February 28, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US troops continue to battle for small gains of land, despite fierce defenses by the Japanese.
US Marine rocket-launching trucks in action on Iwo Jima, Japan, February 28, 1945
Destroyed American amtracs and other vehicles on beach of Iwo Jima, Japan, February 1945
While aiding fallen Marines during a fierce action near Japanese-held Hill 362, Pharmacist's Mate First Class John Willis was wounded and ordered back to the battle-aid station. Disregarding his injuries, Willis returned to the battle area to resume casualty assistance. He was helping a wounded Marine when the enemy attacked with hand grenades. After throwing eight grenades back at the enemy, he was killed when one exploded in his hand. For his actions during the battle, Willis was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. This is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Platoon Corpsman serving with the 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. Constantly imperiled by artillery and mortar fire from strong and mutually supporting pillboxes and caves studding Hill 362 in the enemy's cross-island defenses, Willis resolutely administered first aid to the many marines wounded during the furious close-in fighting until he himself was struck by shrapnel and was ordered back to the battle-aid station. Without waiting for official medical release, he quickly returned to his company and, during a savage hand-to-hand enemy counterattack, daringly advanced to the extreme front lines under mortar and sniper fire to aid a marine lying wounded in a shell hole. Completely unmindful of his own danger as the Japanese intensified their attack, Willis calmly continued to administer blood plasma to his patient, promptly returning the first hostile grenade which landed in the shell-hole while he was working and hurling back 7 more in quick succession before the ninth exploded in his hand and instantly killed him. By his great personal valor in saving others at the sacrifice of his own life, he inspired his companions, although terrifically outnumbered, to launch a fiercely determined attack and repulse the enemy force. His exceptional fortitude and courage in the performance of duty reflect the highest credit upon Willis and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
February 28, 1945: On the eastern front, the Canadian 1st Army attacking along the Rhine and into the Hochwald and Balberger forest. Further south, US 9th Army achieves a breakthrough near Erkelenz, Germany and captures Rogden, Wildenrath, Ophoven, Steinkirchen, Effeld, Birgelen, Rosenthal, Merbeck, Tetelrath, Arsbeck, Hardt, Heh, and Vorst while pushing toward the Rhine. US 1st Army expands the bridgeheads across the Roer River, capturing Glabach, Luxheim, Berg, and Abenden. Patton’s US 3rd Army also expands their bridgeheads across the Pruem River, captures Bitburg, Dausfeld,Lunebach, Lierfeld, Merlscheid, Dackscheid, Eilscheid, Waxweiler, Liessem, Niederweiler, Irsch, Roehl, Scharfbillig, Suelm, Dahlem, Trimport, Idenheim, Hofweiler, Ittelkyll, Idesheim, Helenenberg, Eisenach, Paschel, and Obersehr, and attacks toward Trier.
The US 7th Army is regrouping.
All quiet on French 1st Army front along the Rhine.
The 19th Army of Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front captures Neustettin, Germany (now Szczecinek, Poland).
In Italy, US 12th Air Force aircraft attack transportation targets, supply dumps, and other targets while US 15th Air Force attacks transportation targets in northern Italy.
Pictured: Men of Company C, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, US 1st Infantry Division marching toward Frauwüllesheim, Germany, after crossing the Roer River, February 28, 1945
British on M4 ARV armored recovery vehicle (based on the American M4 Sherman medium tank) passing a disabled heavy German Sturmtiger self-propelled artillery which was abandoned and captured by US troops.
American tank driver, Pvt. Willie Blow, poses for a portrait somewhere near the front line action in Germany, February 28, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US troops continue to battle for small gains of land, despite fierce defenses by the Japanese.
US Marine rocket-launching trucks in action on Iwo Jima, Japan, February 28, 1945
Destroyed American amtracs and other vehicles on beach of Iwo Jima, Japan, February 1945
While aiding fallen Marines during a fierce action near Japanese-held Hill 362, Pharmacist's Mate First Class John Willis was wounded and ordered back to the battle-aid station. Disregarding his injuries, Willis returned to the battle area to resume casualty assistance. He was helping a wounded Marine when the enemy attacked with hand grenades. After throwing eight grenades back at the enemy, he was killed when one exploded in his hand. For his actions during the battle, Willis was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. This is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Platoon Corpsman serving with the 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. Constantly imperiled by artillery and mortar fire from strong and mutually supporting pillboxes and caves studding Hill 362 in the enemy's cross-island defenses, Willis resolutely administered first aid to the many marines wounded during the furious close-in fighting until he himself was struck by shrapnel and was ordered back to the battle-aid station. Without waiting for official medical release, he quickly returned to his company and, during a savage hand-to-hand enemy counterattack, daringly advanced to the extreme front lines under mortar and sniper fire to aid a marine lying wounded in a shell hole. Completely unmindful of his own danger as the Japanese intensified their attack, Willis calmly continued to administer blood plasma to his patient, promptly returning the first hostile grenade which landed in the shell-hole while he was working and hurling back 7 more in quick succession before the ninth exploded in his hand and instantly killed him. By his great personal valor in saving others at the sacrifice of his own life, he inspired his companions, although terrifically outnumbered, to launch a fiercely determined attack and repulse the enemy force. His exceptional fortitude and courage in the performance of duty reflect the highest credit upon Willis and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
March 1, 1945: On the western front, Canadian 1st Army captures Kervenheim and attacking through the Hochwald and Balberger forest toward Sonsbeck. To the south, US 9th Army captures Venlo in Holland as well as the 20 other towns and villages. 9th Army also captures the cities of München-Gladback and Rheydt in Germany, along with Duelken, Viersen, Anrath, Kleinenbroich, Willich-Osterath, Holzheim, and Grevenbroich. US 1st Army pushes across the Erft River and advances toward Cologne and the Rhine, taking Bergheim, Kenten, Quadrath, Ichendorf, Horrem, Wissersheim, Rath, Pingsheim, Dorweiler, Eggersheim, Mueddersheim, Disternich, Sievernich, Froitzheim, Ginnick, Thuir, and Muldenau. Patton’s US 3rd Army pushes across the Pruem River and attacks into Trier, capturing Lambertsberg, Gremelsheid, Hargarten, Oberweiler, Schleid, Sefferweich, Malbergweich, Mohn, Newel, and Olk. US 7th Army holds defensive positions.
Dwight Eisenhower approves the commencement of Operation Lumberjack on March 7, with the goal of capturing the west bank of the Rhine River and seizing key German cities.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks rail yards with 1,114 bombers and secondary targets / targets of opportunity with 95 bombers. US 15th Air Force attacks an oil refinery and seven rail yards. RAF Bomber Command sends 478 aircraft to attack Mannheim during the day, 151 aircraft to attack Kamen during the day, 55 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, and 40 aircraft to attack Erfurt overnight.
On the eastern front, the northward attacks in Pomerania of 1st Belorussian Front (Zhukov) forces achieve a breakthrough with massive artillery support, attacking around Arnswalde, Pyritz, and Stargard and moving on in the Kolberg direction. German 56th Panzer Corps and 34th Panzer Corps commenced Operation Gemse in the Silesian region of Germany (now Poland), surprising Soviet 3rd Guards Tank Army. German Armeegruppe Mitte recaptured Lauban, Germany (now Luban, Poland).
In Italy, all is quiet on British 8th Army front and on the US 5th Army front. US 12th Air Force is grounded by poor weather conditions.
Pictured: Hunter M-10 tanks moving from the devastated streets of Muenchen-Gladbach, on March 1, 1945, during Operation Granada, the assault on the Roer River
The city of Cologne in March 1945 after several bombing raids.
Soviet heavy tank IS-2, 4 Heavy Tank Battalion, fired at close range against German positions in the town of Miroslawiec, March 1, 1945.
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, forces of US 5th Amphibious Corps now hold both the first and second of the island's airfields and have a foothold at the southern end of the third, but at high cost - there is intensive fighting all along the line.
5th Division U.S. Marine invaders inch their way over a slope on Iwo Jima in the face of enemy fire, March 1, 1945
March 1, 1945: On the western front, Canadian 1st Army captures Kervenheim and attacking through the Hochwald and Balberger forest toward Sonsbeck. To the south, US 9th Army captures Venlo in Holland as well as the 20 other towns and villages. 9th Army also captures the cities of München-Gladback and Rheydt in Germany, along with Duelken, Viersen, Anrath, Kleinenbroich, Willich-Osterath, Holzheim, and Grevenbroich. US 1st Army pushes across the Erft River and advances toward Cologne and the Rhine, taking Bergheim, Kenten, Quadrath, Ichendorf, Horrem, Wissersheim, Rath, Pingsheim, Dorweiler, Eggersheim, Mueddersheim, Disternich, Sievernich, Froitzheim, Ginnick, Thuir, and Muldenau. Patton’s US 3rd Army pushes across the Pruem River and attacks into Trier, capturing Lambertsberg, Gremelsheid, Hargarten, Oberweiler, Schleid, Sefferweich, Malbergweich, Mohn, Newel, and Olk. US 7th Army holds defensive positions.
Dwight Eisenhower approves the commencement of Operation Lumberjack on March 7, with the goal of capturing the west bank of the Rhine River and seizing key German cities.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks rail yards with 1,114 bombers and secondary targets / targets of opportunity with 95 bombers. US 15th Air Force attacks an oil refinery and seven rail yards. RAF Bomber Command sends 478 aircraft to attack Mannheim during the day, 151 aircraft to attack Kamen during the day, 55 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, and 40 aircraft to attack Erfurt overnight.
On the eastern front, the northward attacks in Pomerania of 1st Belorussian Front (Zhukov) forces achieve a breakthrough with massive artillery support, attacking around Arnswalde, Pyritz, and Stargard and moving on in the Kolberg direction. German 56th Panzer Corps and 34th Panzer Corps commenced Operation Gemse in the Silesian region of Germany (now Poland), surprising Soviet 3rd Guards Tank Army. German Armeegruppe Mitte recaptured Lauban, Germany (now Luban, Poland).
In Italy, all is quiet on British 8th Army front and on the US 5th Army front. US 12th Air Force is grounded by poor weather conditions.
Pictured: Hunter M-10 tanks moving from the devastated streets of Muenchen-Gladbach, on March 1, 1945, during Operation Granada, the assault on the Roer River
The city of Cologne in March 1945 after several bombing raids.
Soviet heavy tank IS-2, 4 Heavy Tank Battalion, fired at close range against German positions in the town of Miroslawiec, March 1, 1945.
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, forces of US 5th Amphibious Corps now hold both the first and second of the island's airfields and have a foothold at the southern end of the third, but at high cost - there is intensive fighting all along the line.
5th Division U.S. Marine invaders inch their way over a slope on Iwo Jima in the face of enemy fire, March 1, 1945
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Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
March 2 1945: On the northernmost point of the western front, the Canadian 1st Army captures Weeze and Winnekendonk and heads for Geldern. To the south, Trier is captured by units of US 20th Corps as Patton’s US 3rd Army continues attacking toward the Kyll River. 87th Div improves positions around Ormont against determined resistance, taking some 60 pillboxes. Other elements of the US 3rd Army capture Heisdorf, Ober and Nieder Lauch, Winringen, Dingdorf, Heilenbach, Kordel, Butzweiler, Lorich, Besslich, and Aach. The US 1st Army, to the north of US 3rd Army, is extending its advance beyond the Erft River toward Cologne and to the south, capturing Bedburg, Broich, Buchholz, Frimmersdorf, Neurath, Wiedenfeld, Garsdorf, Niederaussem, Oberhausen, Habbelrath, Gymnich, Lechenich, Poll, Erp, Fuessenich, Geich, Bessenich, Roevenich, Juntersdorf, Embken, Wollersheim, Langendorf, Heimbach, Vlatten, Eppenich, and part of Buervenich. Elements of US 9th Army reach the Rhine River at Neuss, German, capturing Roermond, Venlo, Sevelen, and Krefeld.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Bohlen with 96 bombers, Rositz with 36 bombers, Chemnitz with 255 bombers, Magdeburg with 295 bombers, Ruhland with 24 bombers, Dresden with 406 bombers, and various targets of opportunity with 55 bombers. US 15th Air Force attacks rail yards. RAF Bomber Command conducts its last major raid on Cologne, sending 858 aircraft to attack during the day while also sending 67 aircraft to attack Kassel overnight. The Luftwaffe loses 53 fighters attempting to defend against Allied bombers and their escorts.
German 3rd Panzer Army is crumbling under the continuous blows of Soviet 1st Belorussian Front, which exploits toward Belgard, Kolberg, and Stettin. Colonel General Walter Weiß reports that his forces in the Danzig-Westpreußen region of Germany (occupied Danzig and Poland) are surrounded by Soviet troops. German XXIV Panzer Korps continues its counterattack around Lauban.
In Italy, British 8th Army begins attacking between Lake Comacchio and the Adriatic. US 12th Air Force bombers are grounded by poor weather conditions while fighters attack transportation lines, supply depots, airfields, and other targets in the Po valley and elsewhere in northern Italy. US 15th Air Force attacks Brescia.
Pictured: US Rangers in Rurberg, Germany, March 2, 1945
Flak bursts through the vapor trails from B-17 flying fortresses of the 15th air force during the attack on the rail yards at Graz, Austria
Situation map from March 3, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, V Amphibious Corps, now in control of about two thirds of island, continue costly attacks in greater strength in order to exploit gains in center of the front. 3rd Marin Division gains control of Airfield 3, which the Japanese continue to rake with fire. 4th Mar Division, its combat efficiency greatly reduced by casualties and fatigue, continues to clear rough terrain abounding in pillboxes, caves, and underground passages on the right flank while 5th Marin Division continues attacking the left flank, making slow progress. Artillery and tank support are becoming increasingly difficult due to the proximity of opposing forces. Unloading begins on western beaches and Airfield 1 is now ready for use by transport planes.
Joe Rosenthal, left, AP photographer with the wartime pool, takes time out to rest, March 2, 1945, with Bob Campbell, a Marine from San Francisco, in front of a large Japanese gun knocked out by Marines at the base of Mt. Suribachi. Rosenthal scaled the mountain to take the iconic picture of the US flag being raised there.
March 2 1945: On the northernmost point of the western front, the Canadian 1st Army captures Weeze and Winnekendonk and heads for Geldern. To the south, Trier is captured by units of US 20th Corps as Patton’s US 3rd Army continues attacking toward the Kyll River. 87th Div improves positions around Ormont against determined resistance, taking some 60 pillboxes. Other elements of the US 3rd Army capture Heisdorf, Ober and Nieder Lauch, Winringen, Dingdorf, Heilenbach, Kordel, Butzweiler, Lorich, Besslich, and Aach. The US 1st Army, to the north of US 3rd Army, is extending its advance beyond the Erft River toward Cologne and to the south, capturing Bedburg, Broich, Buchholz, Frimmersdorf, Neurath, Wiedenfeld, Garsdorf, Niederaussem, Oberhausen, Habbelrath, Gymnich, Lechenich, Poll, Erp, Fuessenich, Geich, Bessenich, Roevenich, Juntersdorf, Embken, Wollersheim, Langendorf, Heimbach, Vlatten, Eppenich, and part of Buervenich. Elements of US 9th Army reach the Rhine River at Neuss, German, capturing Roermond, Venlo, Sevelen, and Krefeld.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Bohlen with 96 bombers, Rositz with 36 bombers, Chemnitz with 255 bombers, Magdeburg with 295 bombers, Ruhland with 24 bombers, Dresden with 406 bombers, and various targets of opportunity with 55 bombers. US 15th Air Force attacks rail yards. RAF Bomber Command conducts its last major raid on Cologne, sending 858 aircraft to attack during the day while also sending 67 aircraft to attack Kassel overnight. The Luftwaffe loses 53 fighters attempting to defend against Allied bombers and their escorts.
German 3rd Panzer Army is crumbling under the continuous blows of Soviet 1st Belorussian Front, which exploits toward Belgard, Kolberg, and Stettin. Colonel General Walter Weiß reports that his forces in the Danzig-Westpreußen region of Germany (occupied Danzig and Poland) are surrounded by Soviet troops. German XXIV Panzer Korps continues its counterattack around Lauban.
In Italy, British 8th Army begins attacking between Lake Comacchio and the Adriatic. US 12th Air Force bombers are grounded by poor weather conditions while fighters attack transportation lines, supply depots, airfields, and other targets in the Po valley and elsewhere in northern Italy. US 15th Air Force attacks Brescia.
Pictured: US Rangers in Rurberg, Germany, March 2, 1945
Flak bursts through the vapor trails from B-17 flying fortresses of the 15th air force during the attack on the rail yards at Graz, Austria
Situation map from March 3, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, V Amphibious Corps, now in control of about two thirds of island, continue costly attacks in greater strength in order to exploit gains in center of the front. 3rd Marin Division gains control of Airfield 3, which the Japanese continue to rake with fire. 4th Mar Division, its combat efficiency greatly reduced by casualties and fatigue, continues to clear rough terrain abounding in pillboxes, caves, and underground passages on the right flank while 5th Marin Division continues attacking the left flank, making slow progress. Artillery and tank support are becoming increasingly difficult due to the proximity of opposing forces. Unloading begins on western beaches and Airfield 1 is now ready for use by transport planes.
Joe Rosenthal, left, AP photographer with the wartime pool, takes time out to rest, March 2, 1945, with Bob Campbell, a Marine from San Francisco, in front of a large Japanese gun knocked out by Marines at the base of Mt. Suribachi. Rosenthal scaled the mountain to take the iconic picture of the US flag being raised there.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
March 3, 1945: Troops of Canadian 1st and US 9th Armies link up at Walbeck, near Geldern. US 9th Army captures Aldekerk,, Rath, Krefeld, and Viertelsheide and continues attacking toward the Rhine. US 1st Army attacks toward Cologne and the Rhine, capturing Grevenbroich, Wevelinghoven, Sinsteden, Sinnersdorf, Glessen, Dansweiler, Grefrath, Bottenbroich, Dirmerzheim, Blessem, Liblar, Ober Elvenich, Ober Wichterich, Zulpich, Linzenich, and Loevenich. Patton’s US 3rd Army captures Weinsheim, Rommersheim, Fleringen, Giesdorf, Wetteldorf, Reuland, Metterich and Gondorf. US 7th Army opens attacks around Forbach and Stiring Wendel.
In the Allied dominated skies, US 8th Air Force attacks Hannover with 82 bombers, Misburg with 21 bombers, Ruhland with 24 bombers, Chemnitz with 166 bombers, Magdeburg with 219 bombers, Nienburg with 41 bombers, Bielefeld with 48 bombers, Brunswick with 191 bombers, Dedenhausen with 53 bombers, Dollbergen with 37 bombers, Hildesheim with 38 bombers, and attacks targets of opportunity with 50 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 234 aircraft to attack Kamen overnight, 222 aircraft to attack the Dortmund-Ems canal overnight, 64 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, and 32 aircraft to attack Wurzburg overnight. In Addition, 57 Mitchell and Boston bombers of the RAF Second Tactical Air Force are sent to bomb a suspected rocket launching site in a wooded park in the Hague in the Netherlands. Some of the 69 tons of bombs meant for the site miss by as much as 500 yards, hitting the Bezuidenhout district. Some 500 civilians are killed and 2,000 are injured, while several thousand are made homeless. The German occupation refuses to help the survivors, declaring that the "Dutch have to learn what it is like", referring to the Allied bombing of German cities of Hamburg, Dresden, and others.
On the eastern front, the Soviet 1st Belorussian Front is blasting its way toward Stettin, while German 6th Volksgrenadier Division captured Lauban, Germany (now Poland).
Prisoners at Hinzert satellite camp of Buchenwald Concentration Camp are evacuated.
In Italy, the British 8th Army continues attacking around San Severo and between Lake Comacchio and the Adriatic. The Jewish Infantry Brigade enters the line along the Senio River under command of British 8th Army. US 5th Army is attacking around Monte Torraccia, Monte Castello, Monte Terminale, and Monte della Vedetta while US 12th Air Force aircraft attack transportation lines, supply depots, airfields, and other targets in the Po valley, at the Brenner Pass, and elsewhere in northern Italy.
Pictured: Two soldiers of the 3rd Monmouthshire Regiment resting after a period in the front line, March 3, 1945
Men of the 4th Royal Welch Regiment fire a Bren gun from a window in Weeze, March 3, 1945
British "Avro Lancaster" bomber suffers a rough landing at RAF Fiskerton, March 3, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, V Amphibious Crops, along with 3rd and 4th Marine Divisions, make little progress as the Japanese defenders fight fiercely to keep the dwindling part of the 8-square mile island.
On an a day of epic battles, an astonishing five acts of incredible heroism earn the Medal Of Honor…
Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Jack Williams, serving with 3rd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division, moves to the front to assist a wounded soldier. William, hit be enemy fire, completes his mission, then pauses to dress his own wounds before continuing to help others who are injured. He is his by an enemy sniper and killed. here is his Medal Of Honor citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 3d Battalion 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during the occupation of Iwo Jima Volcano Islands, March 3, 1945. Gallantly going forward on the frontlines under intense enemy small-arms fire to assist a marine wounded in a fierce grenade battle, Williams dragged the man to a shallow depression and was kneeling, using his own body as a screen from the sustained fire as he administered first aid, when struck in the abdomen and groin 3 times by hostile rifle fire. Momentarily stunned, he quickly recovered and completed his ministration before applying battle dressings to his own multiple wounds. Unmindful of his own urgent need for medical attention, he remained in the perilous fire-swept area to care for another marine casualty. Heroically completing his task despite pain and profuse bleeding, he then endeavored to make his way to the rear in search of adequate aid for himself when struck down by a Japanese sniper bullet which caused his collapse. Succumbing later as a result of his self-sacrificing service to others, Williams, by his courageous determination, unwavering fortitude and valiant performance of duty, served as an inspiring example of heroism, in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Corporal Charles J. Berry is killed in action while defending his fellow marines from a surprise attack just after midnight. His Medal Of Honor citation reads:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a member of a Machine-gun Crew, serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 3 March 1945. Stationed in the front lines, Corporal Berry manned his weapon with alert readiness as he maintained a constant vigil with other members of his gun crew during the hazardous night hours. When infiltrating Japanese soldiers launched a surprise attack shortly after midnight in an attempt to overrun his position, he engaged in a pitched hand grenade duel, returning the dangerous weapons with prompt and deadly accuracy until an enemy grenade landed in the foxhole. Determined to save his comrades, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself and immediately dived on the deadly missile, absorbing the shattering violence of the exploding charge in his own body and protecting the others from serious injury. Stouthhearted [sic] and indomitable, Corporal Berry fearlessly yielded his own life that his fellow Marines might carry on the relentless battle against a ruthless enemy and his superb valor and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Private First Class William R. Caddy is killed in action when he, along with his platoon leader and his acting platoon sergeant, advanced against Japanese machine-gun and small arms fire in an isolated sector. Seeking temporary refuge from the assault, the three Marines dropped into a shell hole where they were immediately pinned down by a well-concealed enemy sniper. After several unsuccessful attempts to advance further, the 19 year-old Marine and his lieutenant, Ott C. Farris, engaged in a furious hand grenade battle with the defending Japanese. When an enemy grenade landed in their hole, PFC Caddy immediately covered it with his body and absorbed the deadly fragments. Here is his Medal Of Honor citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Rifleman with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. Consistently aggressive, Private First Class Caddy boldly defied shattering Japanese machine-gun and small-arms fire to move forward with his platoon leader and another Marine during a determined advance of his company through an isolated sector and, gaining the comparative safety of a shell hole, took temporary cover with his comrades. Immediately pinned down by deadly sniper fire from a well-concealed position, he made several unsuccessful attempts to again move forward and then, joined by his platoon leader, engaged the enemy in a fierce exchange of hand grenades until a Japanese grenade fell in the shell hole. Fearlessly disregarding all personal danger, Private First Class Caddy instantly threw himself upon the deadly missile, absorbing the exploding charge in his own body and protecting the others from serious injury. Stouthearted and indomitable, he unhesitatingly yielded his own life that his fellow Marines might carry on the relentless battle against a fanatic enemy. His dauntless courage and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death reflects the highest credit upon Private First Class Caddy and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Sergeant William G. Harrell earned the Medal Of Honor for continuing to halt a Japanese advance toward his Command Post although suffering from the loss of both hands and several saber cuts on his legs. Her is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Leader of an Assault Group, serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Eight Marines, Fifth Marine Division, during hand- to-hand combat with enemy Japanese at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on March 3, 1945. Standing watch alternately with another Marine in a terrain studded with caves and ravines, Sergeant Harrell was holding a position in a perimeter defense around the company command post when Japanese troops infiltrated our lines in the early hours of dawn. Awakened by a sudden attack, he quickly opened fire with his carbine and killed two of the enemy as they emerged from a ravine in the light of a star-shell burst. Unmindful of his danger as hostile grenades fell closer, he waged a fierce lone battle until an exploding missile tore off his left hand and fractured his thigh; he was attempting to reload the carbine when his companion returned from the command post with another weapon. Wounded again by a Japanese who rushed the foxhole wielding a saber in the darkness, Sergeant Harrell succeeded in drawing his pistol and killing his opponent and then ordered his wounded companion to a place of safety. Exhausted by profuse bleeding but still unbeaten, he fearlessly met the challenge of two more enemy troops who charged his position and placed a grenade near his head. Killing one man with his pistol, he grasped the sputtering grenade with his good right hand and, pushing it painfully toward the crouching soldier, saw his remaining assailant destroyed but his own hand severed in the explosion. At dawn Sergeant Harrell was evacuated from a position hedged by the bodies of twelve dead Japanese, at least five of whom he had personally destroyed in his self-sacrificing defense of the command post. His grim fortitude exceptional valor and indomitable fighting spirit against almost insurmountable odds reflect the highest credit upon himself and enhance the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”
Pharmacist's Mate Second Class George E. Wahlen , despite being injured in late February, remained on the ground in Iwo Jima to help the wounded men around him. Wounded again on March 2, he refused evacuation to stay and help. Even after being wounded a third time he continued to administer first aid. For his actions he was award the Medal of Honor - here is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 2d Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano group on 3 March 1945. Painfully wounded in the bitter action on 26 February, Wahlen remained on the battlefield, advancing well forward of the frontlines to aid a wounded marine and carrying him back to safety despite a terrific concentration of fire. Tireless in his ministrations, he consistently disregarded all danger to attend his fighting comrades as they fell under the devastating rain of shrapnel and bullets, and rendered prompt assistance to various elements of his combat group as required. When an adjacent platoon suffered heavy casualties, he defied the continuous pounding of heavy mortars and deadly fire of enemy rifles to care for the wounded, working rapidly in an area swept by constant fire and treating 14 casualties before returning to his own platoon. Wounded again on 2 March, he gallantly refused evacuation, moving out with his company the following day in a furious assault across 600 yards of open terrain and repeatedly rendering medical aid while exposed to the blasting fury of powerful Japanese guns. Stouthearted and indomitable, he persevered in his determined efforts as his unit waged fierce battle and, unable to walk after sustaining a third agonizing wound, resolutely crawled 50 yards to administer first aid to still another fallen fighter. By his dauntless fortitude and valor, Wahlen served as a constant inspiration and contributed vitally to the high morale of his company during critical phases of this strategically important engagement. His heroic spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of overwhelming enemy fire upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.”
Whale returned to the US after the war and lived to be 84 years old. A large memorial service was held on June 18, 2009, attended by veterans of all ranges. The main entrance to the George E. Wahlen Medical Center was draped in black banners in his memory. Before his death, he was Utah's last living Medal of Honor recipient.
March 3, 1945: Troops of Canadian 1st and US 9th Armies link up at Walbeck, near Geldern. US 9th Army captures Aldekerk,, Rath, Krefeld, and Viertelsheide and continues attacking toward the Rhine. US 1st Army attacks toward Cologne and the Rhine, capturing Grevenbroich, Wevelinghoven, Sinsteden, Sinnersdorf, Glessen, Dansweiler, Grefrath, Bottenbroich, Dirmerzheim, Blessem, Liblar, Ober Elvenich, Ober Wichterich, Zulpich, Linzenich, and Loevenich. Patton’s US 3rd Army captures Weinsheim, Rommersheim, Fleringen, Giesdorf, Wetteldorf, Reuland, Metterich and Gondorf. US 7th Army opens attacks around Forbach and Stiring Wendel.
In the Allied dominated skies, US 8th Air Force attacks Hannover with 82 bombers, Misburg with 21 bombers, Ruhland with 24 bombers, Chemnitz with 166 bombers, Magdeburg with 219 bombers, Nienburg with 41 bombers, Bielefeld with 48 bombers, Brunswick with 191 bombers, Dedenhausen with 53 bombers, Dollbergen with 37 bombers, Hildesheim with 38 bombers, and attacks targets of opportunity with 50 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 234 aircraft to attack Kamen overnight, 222 aircraft to attack the Dortmund-Ems canal overnight, 64 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, and 32 aircraft to attack Wurzburg overnight. In Addition, 57 Mitchell and Boston bombers of the RAF Second Tactical Air Force are sent to bomb a suspected rocket launching site in a wooded park in the Hague in the Netherlands. Some of the 69 tons of bombs meant for the site miss by as much as 500 yards, hitting the Bezuidenhout district. Some 500 civilians are killed and 2,000 are injured, while several thousand are made homeless. The German occupation refuses to help the survivors, declaring that the "Dutch have to learn what it is like", referring to the Allied bombing of German cities of Hamburg, Dresden, and others.
On the eastern front, the Soviet 1st Belorussian Front is blasting its way toward Stettin, while German 6th Volksgrenadier Division captured Lauban, Germany (now Poland).
Prisoners at Hinzert satellite camp of Buchenwald Concentration Camp are evacuated.
In Italy, the British 8th Army continues attacking around San Severo and between Lake Comacchio and the Adriatic. The Jewish Infantry Brigade enters the line along the Senio River under command of British 8th Army. US 5th Army is attacking around Monte Torraccia, Monte Castello, Monte Terminale, and Monte della Vedetta while US 12th Air Force aircraft attack transportation lines, supply depots, airfields, and other targets in the Po valley, at the Brenner Pass, and elsewhere in northern Italy.
Pictured: Two soldiers of the 3rd Monmouthshire Regiment resting after a period in the front line, March 3, 1945
Men of the 4th Royal Welch Regiment fire a Bren gun from a window in Weeze, March 3, 1945
British "Avro Lancaster" bomber suffers a rough landing at RAF Fiskerton, March 3, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, V Amphibious Crops, along with 3rd and 4th Marine Divisions, make little progress as the Japanese defenders fight fiercely to keep the dwindling part of the 8-square mile island.
On an a day of epic battles, an astonishing five acts of incredible heroism earn the Medal Of Honor…
Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Jack Williams, serving with 3rd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division, moves to the front to assist a wounded soldier. William, hit be enemy fire, completes his mission, then pauses to dress his own wounds before continuing to help others who are injured. He is his by an enemy sniper and killed. here is his Medal Of Honor citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 3d Battalion 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during the occupation of Iwo Jima Volcano Islands, March 3, 1945. Gallantly going forward on the frontlines under intense enemy small-arms fire to assist a marine wounded in a fierce grenade battle, Williams dragged the man to a shallow depression and was kneeling, using his own body as a screen from the sustained fire as he administered first aid, when struck in the abdomen and groin 3 times by hostile rifle fire. Momentarily stunned, he quickly recovered and completed his ministration before applying battle dressings to his own multiple wounds. Unmindful of his own urgent need for medical attention, he remained in the perilous fire-swept area to care for another marine casualty. Heroically completing his task despite pain and profuse bleeding, he then endeavored to make his way to the rear in search of adequate aid for himself when struck down by a Japanese sniper bullet which caused his collapse. Succumbing later as a result of his self-sacrificing service to others, Williams, by his courageous determination, unwavering fortitude and valiant performance of duty, served as an inspiring example of heroism, in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Corporal Charles J. Berry is killed in action while defending his fellow marines from a surprise attack just after midnight. His Medal Of Honor citation reads:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a member of a Machine-gun Crew, serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 3 March 1945. Stationed in the front lines, Corporal Berry manned his weapon with alert readiness as he maintained a constant vigil with other members of his gun crew during the hazardous night hours. When infiltrating Japanese soldiers launched a surprise attack shortly after midnight in an attempt to overrun his position, he engaged in a pitched hand grenade duel, returning the dangerous weapons with prompt and deadly accuracy until an enemy grenade landed in the foxhole. Determined to save his comrades, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself and immediately dived on the deadly missile, absorbing the shattering violence of the exploding charge in his own body and protecting the others from serious injury. Stouthhearted [sic] and indomitable, Corporal Berry fearlessly yielded his own life that his fellow Marines might carry on the relentless battle against a ruthless enemy and his superb valor and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Private First Class William R. Caddy is killed in action when he, along with his platoon leader and his acting platoon sergeant, advanced against Japanese machine-gun and small arms fire in an isolated sector. Seeking temporary refuge from the assault, the three Marines dropped into a shell hole where they were immediately pinned down by a well-concealed enemy sniper. After several unsuccessful attempts to advance further, the 19 year-old Marine and his lieutenant, Ott C. Farris, engaged in a furious hand grenade battle with the defending Japanese. When an enemy grenade landed in their hole, PFC Caddy immediately covered it with his body and absorbed the deadly fragments. Here is his Medal Of Honor citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Rifleman with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. Consistently aggressive, Private First Class Caddy boldly defied shattering Japanese machine-gun and small-arms fire to move forward with his platoon leader and another Marine during a determined advance of his company through an isolated sector and, gaining the comparative safety of a shell hole, took temporary cover with his comrades. Immediately pinned down by deadly sniper fire from a well-concealed position, he made several unsuccessful attempts to again move forward and then, joined by his platoon leader, engaged the enemy in a fierce exchange of hand grenades until a Japanese grenade fell in the shell hole. Fearlessly disregarding all personal danger, Private First Class Caddy instantly threw himself upon the deadly missile, absorbing the exploding charge in his own body and protecting the others from serious injury. Stouthearted and indomitable, he unhesitatingly yielded his own life that his fellow Marines might carry on the relentless battle against a fanatic enemy. His dauntless courage and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death reflects the highest credit upon Private First Class Caddy and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Sergeant William G. Harrell earned the Medal Of Honor for continuing to halt a Japanese advance toward his Command Post although suffering from the loss of both hands and several saber cuts on his legs. Her is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Leader of an Assault Group, serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Eight Marines, Fifth Marine Division, during hand- to-hand combat with enemy Japanese at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on March 3, 1945. Standing watch alternately with another Marine in a terrain studded with caves and ravines, Sergeant Harrell was holding a position in a perimeter defense around the company command post when Japanese troops infiltrated our lines in the early hours of dawn. Awakened by a sudden attack, he quickly opened fire with his carbine and killed two of the enemy as they emerged from a ravine in the light of a star-shell burst. Unmindful of his danger as hostile grenades fell closer, he waged a fierce lone battle until an exploding missile tore off his left hand and fractured his thigh; he was attempting to reload the carbine when his companion returned from the command post with another weapon. Wounded again by a Japanese who rushed the foxhole wielding a saber in the darkness, Sergeant Harrell succeeded in drawing his pistol and killing his opponent and then ordered his wounded companion to a place of safety. Exhausted by profuse bleeding but still unbeaten, he fearlessly met the challenge of two more enemy troops who charged his position and placed a grenade near his head. Killing one man with his pistol, he grasped the sputtering grenade with his good right hand and, pushing it painfully toward the crouching soldier, saw his remaining assailant destroyed but his own hand severed in the explosion. At dawn Sergeant Harrell was evacuated from a position hedged by the bodies of twelve dead Japanese, at least five of whom he had personally destroyed in his self-sacrificing defense of the command post. His grim fortitude exceptional valor and indomitable fighting spirit against almost insurmountable odds reflect the highest credit upon himself and enhance the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”
Pharmacist's Mate Second Class George E. Wahlen , despite being injured in late February, remained on the ground in Iwo Jima to help the wounded men around him. Wounded again on March 2, he refused evacuation to stay and help. Even after being wounded a third time he continued to administer first aid. For his actions he was award the Medal of Honor - here is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 2d Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano group on 3 March 1945. Painfully wounded in the bitter action on 26 February, Wahlen remained on the battlefield, advancing well forward of the frontlines to aid a wounded marine and carrying him back to safety despite a terrific concentration of fire. Tireless in his ministrations, he consistently disregarded all danger to attend his fighting comrades as they fell under the devastating rain of shrapnel and bullets, and rendered prompt assistance to various elements of his combat group as required. When an adjacent platoon suffered heavy casualties, he defied the continuous pounding of heavy mortars and deadly fire of enemy rifles to care for the wounded, working rapidly in an area swept by constant fire and treating 14 casualties before returning to his own platoon. Wounded again on 2 March, he gallantly refused evacuation, moving out with his company the following day in a furious assault across 600 yards of open terrain and repeatedly rendering medical aid while exposed to the blasting fury of powerful Japanese guns. Stouthearted and indomitable, he persevered in his determined efforts as his unit waged fierce battle and, unable to walk after sustaining a third agonizing wound, resolutely crawled 50 yards to administer first aid to still another fallen fighter. By his dauntless fortitude and valor, Wahlen served as a constant inspiration and contributed vitally to the high morale of his company during critical phases of this strategically important engagement. His heroic spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of overwhelming enemy fire upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.”
Whale returned to the US after the war and lived to be 84 years old. A large memorial service was held on June 18, 2009, attended by veterans of all ranges. The main entrance to the George E. Wahlen Medical Center was draped in black banners in his memory. Before his death, he was Utah's last living Medal of Honor recipient.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
I'm really enjoying the posts about Iwo Jima. My first father-in-law was a marine at Iwo Jima. He always spoke very casually about the war. He would never go into detail about battle, but would say something like, "... we were climbing, killed a few Japs, then had to find a place to sleep". OTOH, my father would never speak of the war at all. He was a naval veteran on the Pacific. His best friend, Joe Hamilton, was shot down. I was named Joe after him.
I continue to read the MoH citations with complete amazement. Then you look at the pictures and they look like kids who could have grown up next door.
I'm really enjoying the posts about Iwo Jima. My first father-in-law was a marine at Iwo Jima. He always spoke very casually about the war. He would never go into detail about battle, but would say something like, "... we were climbing, killed a few Japs, then had to find a place to sleep". OTOH, my father would never speak of the war at all. He was a naval veteran on the Pacific. His best friend, Joe Hamilton, was shot down. I was named Joe after him.
I continue to read the MoH citations with complete amazement. Then you look at the pictures and they look like kids who could have grown up next door.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
March 4, 1945: To the north, Canadian 1st Army makes substantial gains as the resistance suddenly slackens, capturing Appeldorn, Vynen, Issum, and Geldern and clearing the Hochwald and Balberger forest. US 9th Army driving toward Rhine bridges at Baerl and Duisburg facing stiff resistance. Elements of US 9th Army capture Moers and Baerl and mop up in the Uerdingen, Kaldenhausen, and Viertelsheide areas. US 1st Army also continues attacking toward the Rhine (a patrol reaches the river on left flank), speeding northeast along the Erft on broad front, overrunning more than 30 towns and villages and halting just short of Erft-Rhine junction. 104th Division pierces outer defenses of Cologne in fighting that starts at midnight while other elements capture Hackhausen, Roggendorf, Worringen, Hackenbroich, Delhoven, Shaberg, Brauweiler, Loevenich, Freimersdorf, Widdersdorf, Koenigsdorf, Buschbell, Weiden, Frechen, Bliesheim, Ober Liblar, Weilerswist, Derikum, Hausweiler, Frauenberg, Wuescheim, Gross Buellesheim, Euskirchen, Uelpenich, Duerscheven,, Enzen, Gemund, and Schleiden. Patton’s US 3rd Army pushes to the Kyll River against stubborn opposition and 87th Division clears some 110 pillboxes. Other elements of US 3rd Army take Scheid, Hallschlag, Kronenburgerheutte, Kerschenbach, Schoenfeld, Reuth, Gondelsheim, Schwirzheim, Buedesheim, Wallersheim, Nieder, Ober Hersdorf, Seiwerath, Neustrassburg, Lasel, Wawern,Erdorf, Badem, Dudeldorf, Ordorf, Hosten, Auw, Preist, Orenhofen, and Speicher. US 7th Army is attacking around Forbach forest, Marienau, Stiring Wendel, and Birnberg hill.
In the Allied dominated skies, US 8th Air Force attacks Ulm with 282 bombers, Schwabmunchen with 69 bombers, and attacks secondary targets and targets of opportunity with 303 bombers while more than 300 abort due to poor weather conditions. US 15th Air Force attacks rail yards. RAF Bomber Command sends 128 aircraft to attack Wanne-Eickel during the day, 31 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, 24 aircraft to attack Essen overnight, and 28 aircraft to attack several ports overnight. German submarine U-3508 destroyed by Allied aircraft at Wilhelmshaven.
On the eastern front, Red Army troops break through to Baltic coast, splitting enemy forces remaining in Pomerania and severing communication lines between Danzig and Stettin. Second White Russian troops reach coast at Koeslin while elements of First White Russian Front thrust to coast near Kolberg. Other forces of First White Russian Front drive to the Oder SW of Stargard, overrunning Pyritz. After breaking through near Stargard, Soviet 1st Belorussian Front heads toward Stettin, Germany (now Szczecin, Poland). Soviet and Polish troops attack Kolberg, Germany (now Kolobrzeg, Poland).
In Italy, British 8th Army continues attacking between Lake Comacchio and the Adriatic while US 5th Army attacks around Monte Acidola, Madonna di Brasa, Monte della Croce, and Monte Grande d'Aiano. Overhead, US 12th Air Force aircraft conduct heavy attacks against transportation lines, supply depots, airfields, and other targets in the Po valley, at the Brenner Pass, and elsewhere in northern Italy.
Pictured: Two German women make their way over rubble in Holstum, Germany during mopping up operations after American captured the town. German soldiers in background clasp hands over head as they are rounded up by US troops. March, 4 1945
Crew of a Sherman M4A3(76)W from the 14th Armored Division "Liberators" drive through a wired connection. For added protection against 'Panzerfaust', the tank was coated with sandbags. Rittershoffen, Alsace, north-eastern France. March 4,1945
Ammunition trains were special targets for the U.S. Eighth Air Force. In these three photos a railcar loaded with ammunition is hit, explodes, and is consumed in flames so intense they burned the camouflage from the underside of the attacking bomber.
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US V Amphibious Corps continues attacking northward on Iwo Jima but makes only minor gains. Carrier-based aircraft from USN Task Group 52.2 provide support while US aircraft drop supplies for USMC operations. A bomber of US 20th Air Force makes the first emergency B-29 landing on on of the captured airfields.
Striking image from the battle of Iwo Jima: Two U.S. Marines directing flame throwers at Japanese defenses that block the way to Iwo Jima's Mount Suribachi on March 4, 1945
William H. “Bill” Genaust was a Sergeant in the USMC and a war photographer who is most famous for capturing the Flag Raising on Iwo Jima on color film with his 16 millimeter camera. On March 4, 1945, Genaust was killed when he entered a darkened cave and was shot to death. He had volunteered to use his camera light so that he could light the way for other marines entering the cave when he was killed. The cave mouth was covered over by bulldozing equipment, and his body was never recovered.
March 4, 1945: To the north, Canadian 1st Army makes substantial gains as the resistance suddenly slackens, capturing Appeldorn, Vynen, Issum, and Geldern and clearing the Hochwald and Balberger forest. US 9th Army driving toward Rhine bridges at Baerl and Duisburg facing stiff resistance. Elements of US 9th Army capture Moers and Baerl and mop up in the Uerdingen, Kaldenhausen, and Viertelsheide areas. US 1st Army also continues attacking toward the Rhine (a patrol reaches the river on left flank), speeding northeast along the Erft on broad front, overrunning more than 30 towns and villages and halting just short of Erft-Rhine junction. 104th Division pierces outer defenses of Cologne in fighting that starts at midnight while other elements capture Hackhausen, Roggendorf, Worringen, Hackenbroich, Delhoven, Shaberg, Brauweiler, Loevenich, Freimersdorf, Widdersdorf, Koenigsdorf, Buschbell, Weiden, Frechen, Bliesheim, Ober Liblar, Weilerswist, Derikum, Hausweiler, Frauenberg, Wuescheim, Gross Buellesheim, Euskirchen, Uelpenich, Duerscheven,, Enzen, Gemund, and Schleiden. Patton’s US 3rd Army pushes to the Kyll River against stubborn opposition and 87th Division clears some 110 pillboxes. Other elements of US 3rd Army take Scheid, Hallschlag, Kronenburgerheutte, Kerschenbach, Schoenfeld, Reuth, Gondelsheim, Schwirzheim, Buedesheim, Wallersheim, Nieder, Ober Hersdorf, Seiwerath, Neustrassburg, Lasel, Wawern,Erdorf, Badem, Dudeldorf, Ordorf, Hosten, Auw, Preist, Orenhofen, and Speicher. US 7th Army is attacking around Forbach forest, Marienau, Stiring Wendel, and Birnberg hill.
In the Allied dominated skies, US 8th Air Force attacks Ulm with 282 bombers, Schwabmunchen with 69 bombers, and attacks secondary targets and targets of opportunity with 303 bombers while more than 300 abort due to poor weather conditions. US 15th Air Force attacks rail yards. RAF Bomber Command sends 128 aircraft to attack Wanne-Eickel during the day, 31 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, 24 aircraft to attack Essen overnight, and 28 aircraft to attack several ports overnight. German submarine U-3508 destroyed by Allied aircraft at Wilhelmshaven.
On the eastern front, Red Army troops break through to Baltic coast, splitting enemy forces remaining in Pomerania and severing communication lines between Danzig and Stettin. Second White Russian troops reach coast at Koeslin while elements of First White Russian Front thrust to coast near Kolberg. Other forces of First White Russian Front drive to the Oder SW of Stargard, overrunning Pyritz. After breaking through near Stargard, Soviet 1st Belorussian Front heads toward Stettin, Germany (now Szczecin, Poland). Soviet and Polish troops attack Kolberg, Germany (now Kolobrzeg, Poland).
In Italy, British 8th Army continues attacking between Lake Comacchio and the Adriatic while US 5th Army attacks around Monte Acidola, Madonna di Brasa, Monte della Croce, and Monte Grande d'Aiano. Overhead, US 12th Air Force aircraft conduct heavy attacks against transportation lines, supply depots, airfields, and other targets in the Po valley, at the Brenner Pass, and elsewhere in northern Italy.
Pictured: Two German women make their way over rubble in Holstum, Germany during mopping up operations after American captured the town. German soldiers in background clasp hands over head as they are rounded up by US troops. March, 4 1945
Crew of a Sherman M4A3(76)W from the 14th Armored Division "Liberators" drive through a wired connection. For added protection against 'Panzerfaust', the tank was coated with sandbags. Rittershoffen, Alsace, north-eastern France. March 4,1945
Ammunition trains were special targets for the U.S. Eighth Air Force. In these three photos a railcar loaded with ammunition is hit, explodes, and is consumed in flames so intense they burned the camouflage from the underside of the attacking bomber.
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US V Amphibious Corps continues attacking northward on Iwo Jima but makes only minor gains. Carrier-based aircraft from USN Task Group 52.2 provide support while US aircraft drop supplies for USMC operations. A bomber of US 20th Air Force makes the first emergency B-29 landing on on of the captured airfields.
Striking image from the battle of Iwo Jima: Two U.S. Marines directing flame throwers at Japanese defenses that block the way to Iwo Jima's Mount Suribachi on March 4, 1945
William H. “Bill” Genaust was a Sergeant in the USMC and a war photographer who is most famous for capturing the Flag Raising on Iwo Jima on color film with his 16 millimeter camera. On March 4, 1945, Genaust was killed when he entered a darkened cave and was shot to death. He had volunteered to use his camera light so that he could light the way for other marines entering the cave when he was killed. The cave mouth was covered over by bulldozing equipment, and his body was never recovered.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
March 5, 1945: The Allied advance continues along the entire line that makes up the western front.
Canadian 1st Army attacks toward Xanten, slowed by fierce defenses. US 1st Army units of the US 8th Corps enter Cologne from the south and the east. Meanwhile, other elements of US 1st Army continue to drive the Germans back, capturing Nievenheim, Horrem, Dormagen, Junkersdorf, Bachem, Gleul, Stotzheim, Burbach, Alsstadten, Berrenrath, Knapsack, Metternich, Gross Vernich, Schwarzmaar, Mueggenhausen, Neukirchen, Schneppenheim, Strassfeld, Klein Buellesheim, Esch, Ludendorff, Cuchenheim, Roitzheim, Weidesheim, Odendorf, Obergartzem, Firmenich, Satzvey, Antweiler, Rheder, Billig, Stotzheim, Elsig, Weiskirchen, Euenheim, Irnich, Schwerfen, Gehn, Kommern, Schaven, Ober Gartzem, Berg, Floisdorf, and Eicks. US 9th Army closes to the Rhine, but find many of the bridges destroyed - despite this, 9th Aermy troops take Camperbruch, Camp, Lintfort, Rheinberg, Orsoy, Rheinkamp (firing on enemy columns attempting to escape), and Homberg. Patton’s US 3rd Army continues pushing to the Kyll River and establishing bridgeheads, capturing Duppach, Oos, Lissingen, Hinterhausen, Birresborn, Neidenbach, Malberg, Kyllburgweiler, Seinsfeld, Steinborn, Meisburg, Weidenbach, Wallenborn, Salm, Gindorf, Oberkail, Orsfeld, Pickliessem, Philippsheim, and Ollmuth. US 7th Army captures Stiring Wendel and continues clearing the Forbach Forest and woods northwest of Marienau and completes the capture of Stiring Wendel.
Goebbels and Hitler discuss possibility of peace with Soviet Union in order to concentrate on war in the west. Meanwhile the German Wehrmacht begins the conscription of 15 to 16-year-old males for service.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Chemnitz with 233 bombers, Plauen with 34 bombers, and Hamburg with 120 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 170 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen during the day, 760 aircraft to attack Chemnitz overnight, 258 aircraft to attack Bohlen overnight, 75 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, 15 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen overnight, and 36 aircraft to attack other targets overnight.
To the east, the fortress Graudenz is captured by Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front. At the Oksywie Heights near Gotenhafen, East Prussia, Germany (now Gdynia, Poland), 30,000 people have been evacuated by ships yesterday and today. The Soviet 19th Army reaches the Baltic coast, cutting off German 2.Armee in Pommern, Germany. The 19th Army of Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front captures Koslin and Soviet 1st Belorussian Front attacks around Altdamm, hammering German X SS Panzer Korps. German Army Group South with 6th SS Panzer Army, 2nd Panzer Army, and 6th Army completes preparations for Operation Frulingserwachen offensive around Lake Balaton to recover Budapest
In Italy, US 5th Army concludes its limited offensive and withstands German counterattacks around Monte della Spe overnight. US 12th Air Force is mostly grounded by poor weather conditions but a few fighters attack targets in the Po valley.
Pictured: Infantrymen of the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada in their dugout in the Hochwald, Germany. March 5, 1945
Prime Minister Winston Churchill chalks the message "A Present for Hitler" onto a shell which he then fired from the eastern edge of Goch, Germany, on March 5, 1945
United States Signal Corps cameraman Robert Hagelstein films German troop movements in the Rhine Valley with a handheld Eyemo 16mm camera, March 5, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US V Amphibious Corps remains in place, improving current positions and reorganizing for concerted attack on 6th. Carrier-based aircraft from USN Task Group 52.2 provide support for USMC operations.
Marines start the drive to the interior of Iwo Jima, Japan on March 5, 1945. Running at a crouch, they dart across the table-land in the shadow of Mount Suribachi, taking advantage of the scant protection offered by small rises in the volcanic sand.
March 5, 1945: The Allied advance continues along the entire line that makes up the western front.
Canadian 1st Army attacks toward Xanten, slowed by fierce defenses. US 1st Army units of the US 8th Corps enter Cologne from the south and the east. Meanwhile, other elements of US 1st Army continue to drive the Germans back, capturing Nievenheim, Horrem, Dormagen, Junkersdorf, Bachem, Gleul, Stotzheim, Burbach, Alsstadten, Berrenrath, Knapsack, Metternich, Gross Vernich, Schwarzmaar, Mueggenhausen, Neukirchen, Schneppenheim, Strassfeld, Klein Buellesheim, Esch, Ludendorff, Cuchenheim, Roitzheim, Weidesheim, Odendorf, Obergartzem, Firmenich, Satzvey, Antweiler, Rheder, Billig, Stotzheim, Elsig, Weiskirchen, Euenheim, Irnich, Schwerfen, Gehn, Kommern, Schaven, Ober Gartzem, Berg, Floisdorf, and Eicks. US 9th Army closes to the Rhine, but find many of the bridges destroyed - despite this, 9th Aermy troops take Camperbruch, Camp, Lintfort, Rheinberg, Orsoy, Rheinkamp (firing on enemy columns attempting to escape), and Homberg. Patton’s US 3rd Army continues pushing to the Kyll River and establishing bridgeheads, capturing Duppach, Oos, Lissingen, Hinterhausen, Birresborn, Neidenbach, Malberg, Kyllburgweiler, Seinsfeld, Steinborn, Meisburg, Weidenbach, Wallenborn, Salm, Gindorf, Oberkail, Orsfeld, Pickliessem, Philippsheim, and Ollmuth. US 7th Army captures Stiring Wendel and continues clearing the Forbach Forest and woods northwest of Marienau and completes the capture of Stiring Wendel.
Goebbels and Hitler discuss possibility of peace with Soviet Union in order to concentrate on war in the west. Meanwhile the German Wehrmacht begins the conscription of 15 to 16-year-old males for service.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Chemnitz with 233 bombers, Plauen with 34 bombers, and Hamburg with 120 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 170 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen during the day, 760 aircraft to attack Chemnitz overnight, 258 aircraft to attack Bohlen overnight, 75 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, 15 aircraft to attack Gelsenkirchen overnight, and 36 aircraft to attack other targets overnight.
To the east, the fortress Graudenz is captured by Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front. At the Oksywie Heights near Gotenhafen, East Prussia, Germany (now Gdynia, Poland), 30,000 people have been evacuated by ships yesterday and today. The Soviet 19th Army reaches the Baltic coast, cutting off German 2.Armee in Pommern, Germany. The 19th Army of Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front captures Koslin and Soviet 1st Belorussian Front attacks around Altdamm, hammering German X SS Panzer Korps. German Army Group South with 6th SS Panzer Army, 2nd Panzer Army, and 6th Army completes preparations for Operation Frulingserwachen offensive around Lake Balaton to recover Budapest
In Italy, US 5th Army concludes its limited offensive and withstands German counterattacks around Monte della Spe overnight. US 12th Air Force is mostly grounded by poor weather conditions but a few fighters attack targets in the Po valley.
Pictured: Infantrymen of the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada in their dugout in the Hochwald, Germany. March 5, 1945
Prime Minister Winston Churchill chalks the message "A Present for Hitler" onto a shell which he then fired from the eastern edge of Goch, Germany, on March 5, 1945
United States Signal Corps cameraman Robert Hagelstein films German troop movements in the Rhine Valley with a handheld Eyemo 16mm camera, March 5, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US V Amphibious Corps remains in place, improving current positions and reorganizing for concerted attack on 6th. Carrier-based aircraft from USN Task Group 52.2 provide support for USMC operations.
Marines start the drive to the interior of Iwo Jima, Japan on March 5, 1945. Running at a crouch, they dart across the table-land in the shadow of Mount Suribachi, taking advantage of the scant protection offered by small rises in the volcanic sand.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
March 6, 1945: It’s Tuesday - today marks 39 weeks (273 days) since the D-Day Invasion at Normandy and the beginning of the liberation of Europe.
On the western front, units of the Canadian 1st Army are preparing to clear the final German pocket west of the Rhine around Xanten. US 1st Army is fighting in Cologne, clearing all but a small pocket in the north, and driving toward Remagen farther south while capturing Udesheim, Feldkassel, Merkenich, Niehl, Merheim, Efferden, Huerth, Hermulheim, Kendenich, Kalscheuren, Meschenich, Dorf Pingsdorf, Badorf, Eckdorf, Schwadorf, Walberberg, Trippelsdorf, Merten, Roesberg, Hemmerich, Waldorf, Dersdorf, Ullekoven, Heimerzheim, Dunstekoven, Ollheim, Buschoven, Miel, Morenhoven, Flerzheim, Stadt Meckenheim, Bad Neuenahr, Palmersheim, Ober Drees, Rheinbach, Wormersdorf, Altendorf, Gelsdorf, Bettelhoven, Bollingen, Lantershofen. Nieder Kastenholz, Flamersheim, Schweinheim, Queckenberg, Loch, Schlebach, Merzbach, Antweiler, Wachendorf, Kalkar, Kirspenich, Arloff, Golbach, and Rinnen.
The US 9th Army has reaches the Rhine all along its front, completing Operation Grenade. US Third Army reaches the Rhine River near Koblenz, taking Stadtkyll, Niederkyll, Glaadt, Juenkerath, Schueller, Krimm, Goennersdorf, Lissendorf, Birgel, Staffeln, Roth, Gerolstein, Michelbach, Niederbach, and Buescheich. Construction of bridges over the Kyll is begun. US 7th Army continues to clear the Forbach Forest and woods northwests of Marienau; patrols reach outposts of West Wall.
Over Germany, RAF Bomber Command sends 119 aircraft to attack Salzbergen during the day, 48 aircraft to attack Wesel during the day, 138 aircraft to attack Wesel overnight, 42 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, 198 aircraft to attack Sassnitz overnight. Five German ships are sunk in overnight bombing raids by the RAF.
On the eastern front, troops of 1st Belorussian Front complete the reduction of Grudziadz, key point in enemy's defense system on the lower Vistula in Poland; continue along Polish corridor toward Danzig; destroying encircled enemy forces southwest of Koeslin (German Pomerania). First White Russian Front forces make substantial gains in north Pomerania, where Belgard and other points are cleared.
The German forces in Hungary launch a major counter-offensive in the area just north of Lake Balaton. The 6th SS Panzer Army, which was withdrawn from the Ardennes battle early in January, has been moved here to spearhead the attack. Other units from Army Group South (Wohler) also take part in the offensive. The operation is code named Fruhlingserwachen or Spring Awakening. The German aim is to retake all the territory between Lake Balaton and the Danube. The Soviet 27th Army, defending along the targeted line of advance, is forced to give ground initially. However, 3rd Ukrainian Front (Tolbukhin) responds with the allotment of reserves to slow the advance down.
Replying to German request, the Japanese government informs Berlin that Tokyo cannot in present circumstances enter the war against the Soviet Union.
Pictured: US medium tanks of the 3rd Armored Division advance cautiously around the Cologne Cathedral, March 6, 1945
Five US Army soldiers are engaged in combat near Cologne cathedral, which has suffered seventy hits by aerial bombs during World War II. The last tank battle took place March 6, 1945 and it took another 5 weeks to liberate all of Cologne, Germany.
Prime Minister Winston Churchill sharing a drink with General William H. Simpson of US Army, Field Marshal Sir Alan Brooke and Major General Alvin Gillian of the 13th Corps Us Army in the citadel in Julich while Field Marshal Bernard L. Montgomery, a teetotaller, sits outside and takes notes, March 6, 1945
After the most intensive massed artillery preparation of the battle for Iwo Jima, supplemented by naval gunfire, US V Amphibious Corps renews its efforts to break the Japanese line but is still so fiercely opposed that progress is negligible. At one f the captured airfields, 28 American P-51 Mustang and 12 P-61 Black Widow aircraft land.
An LCM (Landing Craft Mechanized) loaded with troops shoves off from the troop transport and heads toward the shore at Iwo Jima, Mar 6, 1945.
US Navy doctors and medical corpsmen treat wounded US Marines at an aid station established in a gully on Iwo Jima in the Pacific, Japan, on March 6, 1945. Blood plasma and whole blood is administered from supplies flown from the west coast of the US.
March 6, 1945: It’s Tuesday - today marks 39 weeks (273 days) since the D-Day Invasion at Normandy and the beginning of the liberation of Europe.
On the western front, units of the Canadian 1st Army are preparing to clear the final German pocket west of the Rhine around Xanten. US 1st Army is fighting in Cologne, clearing all but a small pocket in the north, and driving toward Remagen farther south while capturing Udesheim, Feldkassel, Merkenich, Niehl, Merheim, Efferden, Huerth, Hermulheim, Kendenich, Kalscheuren, Meschenich, Dorf Pingsdorf, Badorf, Eckdorf, Schwadorf, Walberberg, Trippelsdorf, Merten, Roesberg, Hemmerich, Waldorf, Dersdorf, Ullekoven, Heimerzheim, Dunstekoven, Ollheim, Buschoven, Miel, Morenhoven, Flerzheim, Stadt Meckenheim, Bad Neuenahr, Palmersheim, Ober Drees, Rheinbach, Wormersdorf, Altendorf, Gelsdorf, Bettelhoven, Bollingen, Lantershofen. Nieder Kastenholz, Flamersheim, Schweinheim, Queckenberg, Loch, Schlebach, Merzbach, Antweiler, Wachendorf, Kalkar, Kirspenich, Arloff, Golbach, and Rinnen.
The US 9th Army has reaches the Rhine all along its front, completing Operation Grenade. US Third Army reaches the Rhine River near Koblenz, taking Stadtkyll, Niederkyll, Glaadt, Juenkerath, Schueller, Krimm, Goennersdorf, Lissendorf, Birgel, Staffeln, Roth, Gerolstein, Michelbach, Niederbach, and Buescheich. Construction of bridges over the Kyll is begun. US 7th Army continues to clear the Forbach Forest and woods northwests of Marienau; patrols reach outposts of West Wall.
Over Germany, RAF Bomber Command sends 119 aircraft to attack Salzbergen during the day, 48 aircraft to attack Wesel during the day, 138 aircraft to attack Wesel overnight, 42 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, 198 aircraft to attack Sassnitz overnight. Five German ships are sunk in overnight bombing raids by the RAF.
On the eastern front, troops of 1st Belorussian Front complete the reduction of Grudziadz, key point in enemy's defense system on the lower Vistula in Poland; continue along Polish corridor toward Danzig; destroying encircled enemy forces southwest of Koeslin (German Pomerania). First White Russian Front forces make substantial gains in north Pomerania, where Belgard and other points are cleared.
The German forces in Hungary launch a major counter-offensive in the area just north of Lake Balaton. The 6th SS Panzer Army, which was withdrawn from the Ardennes battle early in January, has been moved here to spearhead the attack. Other units from Army Group South (Wohler) also take part in the offensive. The operation is code named Fruhlingserwachen or Spring Awakening. The German aim is to retake all the territory between Lake Balaton and the Danube. The Soviet 27th Army, defending along the targeted line of advance, is forced to give ground initially. However, 3rd Ukrainian Front (Tolbukhin) responds with the allotment of reserves to slow the advance down.
Replying to German request, the Japanese government informs Berlin that Tokyo cannot in present circumstances enter the war against the Soviet Union.
Pictured: US medium tanks of the 3rd Armored Division advance cautiously around the Cologne Cathedral, March 6, 1945
Five US Army soldiers are engaged in combat near Cologne cathedral, which has suffered seventy hits by aerial bombs during World War II. The last tank battle took place March 6, 1945 and it took another 5 weeks to liberate all of Cologne, Germany.
Prime Minister Winston Churchill sharing a drink with General William H. Simpson of US Army, Field Marshal Sir Alan Brooke and Major General Alvin Gillian of the 13th Corps Us Army in the citadel in Julich while Field Marshal Bernard L. Montgomery, a teetotaller, sits outside and takes notes, March 6, 1945
After the most intensive massed artillery preparation of the battle for Iwo Jima, supplemented by naval gunfire, US V Amphibious Corps renews its efforts to break the Japanese line but is still so fiercely opposed that progress is negligible. At one f the captured airfields, 28 American P-51 Mustang and 12 P-61 Black Widow aircraft land.
An LCM (Landing Craft Mechanized) loaded with troops shoves off from the troop transport and heads toward the shore at Iwo Jima, Mar 6, 1945.
US Navy doctors and medical corpsmen treat wounded US Marines at an aid station established in a gully on Iwo Jima in the Pacific, Japan, on March 6, 1945. Blood plasma and whole blood is administered from supplies flown from the west coast of the US.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
March 7, 1945: On the western front, the leading tanks of US 3rd Corps (part of US 1st Army) reach the Rhine River opposite Remagen and find the Ludendorff Bridge there damaged but still standing. Troops are immediately rushed across and a bridgehead is firmly established during the day. Other elements of the US 1st Army complete the capture of Cologne, the third largest city in Germany. Patton’s US 3rd Army attacks across the Kyll River and pushes towards the Rhine while US 9th Army is attacking toward Wesel on its left flank and regrouping for assault across the Rhine. To the north, Canadian 1st Army attacks toward Xanten, Veen, and Wesel.
In Berlin, Hitler relieves Field Marshal Rundstedt from his post as Commander in Chief of the German armies in the west because of the American capture of the bridge at Remagen. Field Marshal Kesselring is appointed to replace him.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Dortmund with 86 bombers, rail yards with 282 bombers, Schildesche with 80 bombers, Soest with 144 bombers, Datteln with 173 bombers, and Castrop with 77 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 531 aircraft to attack Dessau overnight, 581 aircraft to attack Hemmingstedt overnight, 241 aircraft to attack Harburg overnight, 80 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, and 24 aircraft to attack Frankfurt, Munster, and Hannover overnight.
On the eastern front, iIn Hungary, the German offensive by Army Group South continues and achieves more gains. To the north of Lake Balaton, attacks are by 6th SS Panzer Army while to the south of the lake, there are attacks by units of the German 2nd Panzer Army toward Kaposvar. Farther south, in occupied Yugoslavia, elements of German Army Group E (Lohr) attack north-east of the Drava River against allied forces of 3rd Ukrain. Soviet 1st Belorussian Front attacking around Kolberg, Stettin, and Kustrin.
Pictured: On March 7, 1945, American troops conquer the Ludendorff railway bridge at Remagen, West German, the only intact across the Rhine. The rest were blown up by the Nazis to contain the Allied advance
US soldiers attending mass in Cologne, March 7, 1945
A woman crying the day Dessau was bombed by 531 allied aircraft, March 7, 1945
Prime Minister Winston Churchill of England with Gen. William Hood Simpson, Commander in Chief of the U.S. 9th Army, tour the ruins of Julich, Germany, on the Siegfried Line, March 7, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US V Amphibious Corps begins an assault in center of the island before dawn, withholding preparatory fire and moving forward with great secrecy, but gains little ground. 5th Marine Division, again attacking with 3 regiments abreast on left flank of corps, makes limited progress on right and in center; on left, where the terrain iaboutup to 600 yards. On right flank of corps, 4th Marine Division forces advance slowly but Regimental Combat Team 25 is unable to move and continues to mop up rear areas. US 7th Air Force fighters begin operating from South Field on Iwo Jima.
A group of P-51’s from the 45th FS, 15th FG over Iwo Jima March 7, 1945
Second Lieutenant John H. Leims landed on Iwo Jima on February 24 and was slightly wounded by a shell fragment on February 27, but returned to duty on the same day. On March 3, due to heavy casualties, he became company commander (B-1-9), a position usually filled by a captain. On March 7, he led his company in a surprise attack against a strongly fortified enemy hill position, succeeded in capturing the objective, and in spite of withering fire returned forward to rescue two of his wounded men. For his actions he was awarded the Medal Of Honor - here is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 7 March 1945. Launching a surprise attack against the rock-embedded fortifications of a dominating Japanese hill position, Second Lieutenant Leims spurred his company forward with indomitable determination and, skillfully directing his assault platoons against the cave-emplaced enemy troops and heavily fortified pillboxes, succeeded in capturing the objective in the late afternoon. When it became apparent that his assault platoons were cut off in this newly won position, approximately four hundred yards forward of adjacent units and lacked all communication with the command post, he personally advanced and laid telephone lines across the isolating expanse of open, fire-swept terrain. Ordered to withdraw his command after he had joined his forward platoons, he immediately complied, adroitly effecting the withdrawal of his troops without incident. Upon arriving at the rear, he was informed that several casualties had been left at the abandoned ridge position beyond the front lines. Although suffering acutely from strain and exhaustion of battle, he instantly went forward despite darkness and the slashing fury of hostile machine-gun fire, located and carried to safety one seriously wounded Marine and then, running the gauntlet of enemy fire for the third time that night, again made his tortuous way into the bullet-riddled deathtrap and rescued another of his wounded men. A dauntless leader, concerned at all times for the welfare of his men, Second Lieutenant Leims soundly maintained the coordinated strength of his battle-wearied company under extremely difficult conditions and, by his bold tactics, sustained aggressiveness and heroic disregard of all personal danger, contributed essentially to the success of his division's operations against this vital Japanese base. His valiant conduct in the face of fanatic opposition sustained and enhanced the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps.”
After the war, Leims returned home. He died on June 28, 1985 at the age of 64.
March 7, 1945: On the western front, the leading tanks of US 3rd Corps (part of US 1st Army) reach the Rhine River opposite Remagen and find the Ludendorff Bridge there damaged but still standing. Troops are immediately rushed across and a bridgehead is firmly established during the day. Other elements of the US 1st Army complete the capture of Cologne, the third largest city in Germany. Patton’s US 3rd Army attacks across the Kyll River and pushes towards the Rhine while US 9th Army is attacking toward Wesel on its left flank and regrouping for assault across the Rhine. To the north, Canadian 1st Army attacks toward Xanten, Veen, and Wesel.
In Berlin, Hitler relieves Field Marshal Rundstedt from his post as Commander in Chief of the German armies in the west because of the American capture of the bridge at Remagen. Field Marshal Kesselring is appointed to replace him.
Over Germany, US 8th Air Force attacks Dortmund with 86 bombers, rail yards with 282 bombers, Schildesche with 80 bombers, Soest with 144 bombers, Datteln with 173 bombers, and Castrop with 77 bombers. RAF Bomber Command sends 531 aircraft to attack Dessau overnight, 581 aircraft to attack Hemmingstedt overnight, 241 aircraft to attack Harburg overnight, 80 aircraft to attack Berlin overnight, and 24 aircraft to attack Frankfurt, Munster, and Hannover overnight.
On the eastern front, iIn Hungary, the German offensive by Army Group South continues and achieves more gains. To the north of Lake Balaton, attacks are by 6th SS Panzer Army while to the south of the lake, there are attacks by units of the German 2nd Panzer Army toward Kaposvar. Farther south, in occupied Yugoslavia, elements of German Army Group E (Lohr) attack north-east of the Drava River against allied forces of 3rd Ukrain. Soviet 1st Belorussian Front attacking around Kolberg, Stettin, and Kustrin.
Pictured: On March 7, 1945, American troops conquer the Ludendorff railway bridge at Remagen, West German, the only intact across the Rhine. The rest were blown up by the Nazis to contain the Allied advance
US soldiers attending mass in Cologne, March 7, 1945
A woman crying the day Dessau was bombed by 531 allied aircraft, March 7, 1945
Prime Minister Winston Churchill of England with Gen. William Hood Simpson, Commander in Chief of the U.S. 9th Army, tour the ruins of Julich, Germany, on the Siegfried Line, March 7, 1945
Bonus: On Iwo Jima, US V Amphibious Corps begins an assault in center of the island before dawn, withholding preparatory fire and moving forward with great secrecy, but gains little ground. 5th Marine Division, again attacking with 3 regiments abreast on left flank of corps, makes limited progress on right and in center; on left, where the terrain iaboutup to 600 yards. On right flank of corps, 4th Marine Division forces advance slowly but Regimental Combat Team 25 is unable to move and continues to mop up rear areas. US 7th Air Force fighters begin operating from South Field on Iwo Jima.
A group of P-51’s from the 45th FS, 15th FG over Iwo Jima March 7, 1945
Second Lieutenant John H. Leims landed on Iwo Jima on February 24 and was slightly wounded by a shell fragment on February 27, but returned to duty on the same day. On March 3, due to heavy casualties, he became company commander (B-1-9), a position usually filled by a captain. On March 7, he led his company in a surprise attack against a strongly fortified enemy hill position, succeeded in capturing the objective, and in spite of withering fire returned forward to rescue two of his wounded men. For his actions he was awarded the Medal Of Honor - here is his citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 7 March 1945. Launching a surprise attack against the rock-embedded fortifications of a dominating Japanese hill position, Second Lieutenant Leims spurred his company forward with indomitable determination and, skillfully directing his assault platoons against the cave-emplaced enemy troops and heavily fortified pillboxes, succeeded in capturing the objective in the late afternoon. When it became apparent that his assault platoons were cut off in this newly won position, approximately four hundred yards forward of adjacent units and lacked all communication with the command post, he personally advanced and laid telephone lines across the isolating expanse of open, fire-swept terrain. Ordered to withdraw his command after he had joined his forward platoons, he immediately complied, adroitly effecting the withdrawal of his troops without incident. Upon arriving at the rear, he was informed that several casualties had been left at the abandoned ridge position beyond the front lines. Although suffering acutely from strain and exhaustion of battle, he instantly went forward despite darkness and the slashing fury of hostile machine-gun fire, located and carried to safety one seriously wounded Marine and then, running the gauntlet of enemy fire for the third time that night, again made his tortuous way into the bullet-riddled deathtrap and rescued another of his wounded men. A dauntless leader, concerned at all times for the welfare of his men, Second Lieutenant Leims soundly maintained the coordinated strength of his battle-wearied company under extremely difficult conditions and, by his bold tactics, sustained aggressiveness and heroic disregard of all personal danger, contributed essentially to the success of his division's operations against this vital Japanese base. His valiant conduct in the face of fanatic opposition sustained and enhanced the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps.”
After the war, Leims returned home. He died on June 28, 1985 at the age of 64.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
My dad served in the 581st AAA. They saw their first action at Remagen, but were not part of the initial assault. If CA doesn't mind, I will post a few photos my dad took, on the appropriate day.
My dad only talked about his time in the Army once. We were watching a TV show......"What's My Line"..........."I've Got a Secret"...........one of those shows. Suddenly, he jumps up and yells "THAT IS SO-AND SO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" (No, I can't remember who. I was probably 4.)
His buddy's claim to fame was he shot down 2 planes, with one shot. I imagine he hit one, and the second was caught in the debris field, and also went down. After the show was over, he went to the attic, and brought out his album of war photos. (A lot were his gang driving half-tracks around the swamps in GA, and having a few too many, after hours.) This was the only time he showed any of those photos.
He saw less than 2 months of combat, and whatever happened in that brief period affected him greatly. Gen. Patton would not approve, but Dad obviously had what we now call PTSD. Nightmares, waking up screaming to look out, profuse sweating..............high-strung and irritable, all the time. He was clearly not the same young man he was when he graduated in '42.
A few years later, he died. I really think he lost the will to live.
My dad served in the 581st AAA. They saw their first action at Remagen, but were not part of the initial assault. If CA doesn't mind, I will post a few photos my dad took, on the appropriate day.
My dad only talked about his time in the Army once. We were watching a TV show......"What's My Line"..........."I've Got a Secret"...........one of those shows. Suddenly, he jumps up and yells "THAT IS SO-AND SO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" (No, I can't remember who. I was probably 4.)
His buddy's claim to fame was he shot down 2 planes, with one shot. I imagine he hit one, and the second was caught in the debris field, and also went down. After the show was over, he went to the attic, and brought out his album of war photos. (A lot were his gang driving half-tracks around the swamps in GA, and having a few too many, after hours.) This was the only time he showed any of those photos.
He saw less than 2 months of combat, and whatever happened in that brief period affected him greatly. Gen. Patton would not approve, but Dad obviously had what we now call PTSD. Nightmares, waking up screaming to look out, profuse sweating..............high-strung and irritable, all the time. He was clearly not the same young man he was when he graduated in '42.
A few years later, he died. I really think he lost the will to live.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
They are not the quality we are used to............
They are not the quality we are used to............
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
Content trumps 'quality'. Please post whatever you wish.
Re: WWII: European Theater daily - 1944 (was Normandy Daily)
Doesn't matter. Anything adds...
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