HEADQUARTERS RESERVE COMMAND Eleventh Armored Division APO 261, U.S. Army 2 February 1945 SUBJECT: After Action Report TO: Commanding General, 11th Armored Division, APO 261, U.S. Army 1. In compliance with Operations Memorandum No. 19, Hqs 11th AD, the attached Report of action against the enemy, covering period 23 December 1944 31 January 1945, is submitted. 2. No copies of written Field Orders, Journals, or messages are attached insofar as all action was controlled by oral orders and messages. For the Commanding Officer Charles C. Grant Maj, Inf. S-3
APO 261, U.S. Army 2 February 1945 SUBJECT: After Action Report TO: Commanding General, 11th Armored Division, APO 261, U.S. Army 1. The following report is submitted of the action of Reserve Command, against the enemy for the period 23 December 1944 31 January 1945, as required by AR 345-105 C3. DECEMBER 1944 23 RESERVE COMMAND closed in SISSONE
BARRACKS, 1800 SISSONE, FRANCE, after completing trip from CHERBOURG, FRANCE,
commencing 1800, 21 December 1944. 24 RESERVE COMMAND remained in SISSONE,
FRANCE, from 24 December to 25 December 1944. 25 On 25 December 1944, RESERVE COMMAND
moved to GUIGNI-COURT, FRANCE, with 55th ARMORED INFANTRY BATTALION
attached. RESERVE COMMAND joined
DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, 11th ARMORED DIVISION at CHATEAU GUIGNI-COURT, with the
55th ARMORED INFANTRY BATTALION going into bivouac in immediate vicinity,
0770250 (Namur-Luzembourg Map Sheet #6, 1/250,000). 26-28 VOCG assigned RESERVE COMMAND mission of
reconnaissance of possible defense of MEUSE RIVER line sector, MEZIERES
inclusive to VIREAUX exclusive.
Reconnaissance was made of river line and routes thereto. 29 RESERVE COMMAND moved on DIVISION FO
#3, dated 29 December 1944, to vicinity NEUFCHATEAU, BELGIUM, prepared for
combat. RESERVE COMMAND closed in
assembly area vicinity ELBY, BELGIUM, P424415, (BESTOGNE Map Sheet #121,
1/50,000).
TROOPS Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn A Co, 22nd Tank Bn Hq Co & C Co, 56th Armd Engr Bn 30 DIVISION FO #4 assigned RESERVE
COMMAND the mission of following CCA, prepared to support either CCA or CCB on
DIVISION Order, and protect DIVISIONS left (W) flank. RESERVE COMMAND jumped off at 0930, 30
December 1944, and moved to vicinity P380460, just N or RESPELLE and moved into
woods at that point. At 1400, RESERVE
COMMAND was given the mission of moving in on REMAGNE, P394555 from the W to
assist CCA who were attacking REMAGNE from the S. Upon reaching point P370530, RESERVE COMMAND received VOCG to
move to VAUX-LEZ-ROSIERS (P443479), and prepare for move within new area 31
December 1944. 31 FO #5, 11th ARMORED DIVISION, 310100
December 44, gave RESERVE COMMAND mission of jumping off from the vicinity of
MAGEROTTE, P452552, at 0845 to secure W flank of DIVISION and seize high ground
NW of that town. RESERVE COMMAND moved
out from VAUX-LEZ-ROSIERS at 0800, in the following order: Hq Res Comd A Co, 22nd Tk Bn
56th Armd Engr Bn (-A & B Cos) and moved into MAGEROTTE at 1000, and moved into woods, BOIS DES HAIES DE MAGERY NW, (P445558). At this point the Infantry found woods to be mined and bobby-trapped and received eight (8) casualties. A Co, 22nd TK BN moved in support of the Infantry. The 56th ARMD ENGR BN (-), with the 1st PLAT, A CO, 55th ARMD INF BN atchd, established roadblocks on all roads leading E and W through BOIS DES HAIES DE MAGERY WOODS from P435507 to P435546. On clearing woods, in the direction of ACUL (P438578), the Infantry received heavy S/A and mortar fire from dug-in German positions N of woods. Tanks moving to flank ACUL from E were stopped by German minefield, losing one (1) tank moving through the woods. Position was then organized on objectives high ground S of ACUL. Hostile small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire were received from the vicinity ACUL. This fire presented a definite threat to the security of the objective. At 1300, 31 December 44, after preparatory artillery concentrations, C CO, 55th ARMD INF BN (-3RD PLAT), reinforced by A CO, 22nd TK BN, and supporting BN weapons, attacked the village of ACUL. This attack met strong German resistance, but the village of ACUL was successfully taken by 1500. Subsequent to reinforcement by A CO, 55th ARMD INF BN (-1st PLAT), the attacking forces withdrew from ACUL to the prepared defensive positions on the BNs objective. At 2000, 31 December 44, a German force estimated at four (4) tanks and approximately one hundred (100) infantrymen attacked the BNs left flank in the zone of B CO, 55th ARMD INF BN. This hostile attack was successfully met and the German forces withdrew. JANUARY 1945 1 RESERVE COMMAND continued defense of
DIVISIONS left flank and maintained fire on towns to N and NW. Received continued mortar fire on front of
BNs position. German counter-attack at
2300 was dispersed. 2 Produced sporadic German mortar fire
on the BN front line. Established
contact with the 87th INF DIV on the left flank and CCA on the right
flank. Engineers maintained roadblocks
and Engineer work clearing minefields in rear of front lines. 3 Position maintained and contact with
87th INF DIV on left and CCA on the right continued. RESERVE COMMAND was relieved in place by 193rd GLIDER INFANTRY at
1600. Result of Action: 31 Dec 44 to 3 Jan 45 Officers 2 Killed 2 Wounded Enlisted Men - 35 Killed 60 Wounded Non-battle casualties (frostbite) 31 Vehicles: H/T M3A1 1 Light Tank M5A1 1 57MM AT Guns 2 Medium Tanks 5 Ό Ton Trucks 2 41st CAV RCN SQD MECZ (-) reverted to RESERVE COMMAND control with mission to screen W flank of DIVISION. 4 RESERVE COMMAND alerted to move to DIVISION Concentration Area to support 17th AB DIVISION from present position, maintaining roadblocks and OPs in woods, BOIS DES HAIES DE MAGERY (P445558). Troops: Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn A Co, 22nd Tk Bn C Co, 56th Armd Engr Bn 41st Cav Rcn Sqd Mecz (-) Estimated Strength 1881 men 5 8 No change. Maintained roadblocks, QPs, patrols and contact kept with 87th INF DIV on left and 193rd GLLIDER INF on the right. Troops: Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn A Co, 22nd Tk Bn Strength 962 men
9-11 55th ARMD INF BN in Assembly Area and separate patrols operating. A CO, 22nd TK BN moved to vicinity HOUMONT (P461573) to support 17th AB DIV and then to vicinity of CHISOGNE (P437586) under the 87th INF DIV control. The 1st PLAT, A TP 41st CAV RCN SQD MECZ operated patrols and outposts. 1st PLAT, C CO 56th ARMD ENGR BN relieved PLAT A CO 55th ARMD INF BN on roadblock. Contact kept with 87th INF DIV on left and 17th AB DIV to front and right. RESERVE COMMAND remained on alert status. Reconnaissance was made to positions P432572, P444575, P465570, and routes to. Contact was made with the 492nd ARMD FA BN for supporting fires. Troops during period: Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn A Co, 22nd Tk Bn 2nd Plat, A Tp, 41st Cav Rcn Sqd Mecz Strength 1008 Men 12 In accordance with FO #8, 11th ARMD DIV, dated 12 January 1945, RESERVE COMMAND moved to assembly area HEMROULLE (P584602), prepared to move on order, following CCA prepared to protect right or left flank or reinforce CCAs attack on initial objective. Troops: Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn 22nd Tk Bn (-B Co) 3rd Plat, A Tp, 41st Cav Rcn Sqd Mecz 1st Plat, C Co, 56th Armd Engr Bn C Co, 81st Armd Med Bn RESERVE COMMAND closed HEMROULLE 2030, 12 January 1945, and maintained roadblocks vicinity CHAMPS (P520620) by 1st PLAT, A TP, 41st CAV RCN SQD MECZ. Immediate reconnaissance was made in area of elms of 101st AB DIV in our sector. Contact established with front line Cos, and A Co, 75th ARMD INF BN went into position to support elms 101st AB DIV on MLR. Troops: Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn 22nd Tk Bn (-B Co) 1st Plat, C Co, 56th Armd Engr Bn 2nd Plat, A Tp, 41st Cav Rcn Sqd Mecz Strength 1405 Men 13 RESERVE COMMAND moved 0700, and
followed CCA to vicinity LONGCHAMPS (P587636), prepared to protect DIVISION and
move on objective. RESERVE COMMAND
attached to CCA, 1230, 13 January 1945.
At 1300, CCR jumped off W of Hwy LONGCHAMPS BERTOGNE (P587636). At LD, came under heavy mortar fire. 55th ARMD INF BN moved forward to take FAYS
(P523648) and secured objective of high ground along Hwy S & W of BERTOGNE,
having advanced in face of sporadic mortar fire and moderate artillery
fire. Roadblocks maintained vicinity
CHAMPS. Engineers released to CCA to
assist clear minefields. COS C & D,
22nd TK BN moved to ROUETTE (P512635) to clear town of enemy. Town was found occupied by friendly troops.
LOSSES Our Forces: 1 AG, M8, w/trailer 4 H/T, M3A1 3 Ό Ton Trucks 14 No Troops No Mission. 15 RESERVE COMMAND reconstituted and re-designated TF BELL under CCA. Troops: Hq Reserve Command 63rd Armd Inf Bn 42nd Tk Bn 2nd Bn, 194th Glider Inf B Co, 602 TD A Co, 56th Armd Engr Bn Mission: To drive enemy out of and to occupy PIED-DU-MONT WOODS (P538688). Attack jumped off 0915, 15 Jan 45, after a 10 minute concentration of artillery fire by the 490th ARMD FA BN, supported by DIV ARTY, and AIR SUPPORT at 0900. 2nd BN, 194th GLIDER INF, with one (1) MEDIUM TANK CO, 42nd TK BN leading the way, jumped off vicinity BERTOGNE (P523673) to the E with the 63rd ARMD INF BN and 42nd TK BN, with B CO, 602 TD attached, supporting attack fire from just S BERTOGNE-HOUFFALIZE HWY (P525665). Light S/A fire was received and mission accomplished and position organized by 1000, and TF BELL prepared for further move. D CO, 42nd TK BN moved N of woods PIED-DU-MONT to secure Northern flank of TF. RESERVE COMMAND moved to BERTOGNE and then moved into COMPOGNE (P553673) and the infantry, under cover of arty and tank fire, moved into the town and captured approximately 400 PWs, including 15 Officers. Then moved into and occupied RASTADT (P550678) with light opposition. RESERVE COMMAND continued E to VELLEROUX (P559682) which was taken by dark. Strong counter-attack by infantry, supported by tanks, forced withdrawal to more favorable terrain just W of and commanding the town by fire. S/A, mortar and light artillery fire encountered during this operation. One (1) CO MEDIUM TKS moved past VELLEROUX and five (5) MEDIUM TANKS lost to enemy action from high ground S and N to approaches to MABOMPRE (P574686). A CO, 56th ARMD ENGR BN used for clearing of minefields and preparation for movement of supporting troops. 25 Casualties 7 Killed (approx) 16 RESERVE COMMAND attack jumped off, took VELLEROUX, and MABOMPRE and continued E to take DIVISION Objective of high ground S of HOUFFALIZE by 1600. RESERVE COMMAND moved into MABOMPRE 1500, 16 Jan 45, and forward position prepared for defense by 2000. 2nd BN, 194th GLIDER INF was moved up to take over objective for defense. RESERVE COMMAND was relieved in place by 2400 and alerted for further movement. 17 RESERVE COMMAND reconstituted by 11th ARMD DIV FO #9, 171500 Jan 45, and moved to relieve elms 101st AB DIV and defend DIV sector, HARDIGNY-BOURCY, incl. Troops: Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn A Co, 41st Tk Bn D Co, 22nd Tk Bn D Tp, 41st Cav Rcn Sqd Mecz C Co, 56th Armd Engr Bn 602 TD (-C Co) C & D Cos 575th AAA (AW) Bn (SP) (-) 491 Armd FA Bn, supported by 492nd Armd FA Bn, in direct support Estimated Strength 1741 Men Position occupied and contact established with 17th AB DIVISION on left and Rcn unit 6th ARMD DIV on the right. 18 RESERVE COMMAND assumed responsibility for defense on 18 Jan 45 at 0800. Night patrols encountered no enemy opposition. Day patrol met determined enemy resistance. Position received light mortar and artillery fire. Troops continued improvement of defensive sectors, including digging in of positions; clearing fields of fire and planning defensive fires. OPs established and patrols active in maintaining liaison with adjacent units on N and S flanks. Harrassing enemy artillery and mortar fires received in all Company sectors. A small German tank and Infantry group was taken under fire vicinity P6244664 at 1720, resulting in disorganization and withdrawal to E of German force. Harrassing and interdictory artillery and mortar fires were placed on enemy forces during night 18 Jan 45. Listening posts maintained throughout the night to continue contact with enemy forces. Our Losses Enemy Losses 2 Wounded 1 PW 8 MIA (from Patrol) Material: 1 H/T lost to Arty Fire 1 57mm AT Gun 19 OPs maintained and patrols active in continued liaison with adjacent units on N and S flanks. Occasional enemy artillery and mortar fires received on all Company sectors, diminishing in effect during late afternoon. German MG position vicinity P619670 destroyed at 1745, and unconfirmed light vehicle casualties inflicted NW of same area. Harrassing and Interdictory fires placed on enemy sectors during entire period. Enemy position located by forward elements and contact maintained.
Our Losses Enemy Losses 55th AIB 2 Killed 1 Killed (Known) 1 Wounded 56th Eng - 1 Killed 2 Wounded 1 Evacuated (shattered nerves) 20 Front line Infantry patrols not able to make contact with enemy by 1600. RESERVE COMMAND pushed forward to line P640682-647654 at 1800, and completed move by 2330, capturing 10 PWs at BOEUR (P645673). D TP, 41 CAV RCN SQD MECZ reconnoitered route WONDEBOURCY (P640683) on roads and trails with no enemy contact during move other than enemy minefields. Patrols moved as far E as BURET (P665682) with no enemy contacted. 21 RESERVE COMMAND maintained line WONDEBOURCY-BOEUR-CHENEY until passed through by elements CCA. RESERVE COMMAND moved to BOEUR. RESERVE COMMAND now consisted of the following troops: Hq Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn D Co, 22nd Tk Bn Estimated Strength 846 22 RESERVE COMMAND in Assembly Area vicinity BOEUR (P645673) and WONDEBOURCY (P640683) prepared to assist CCA to N or S. 23-28 D CO, 22nd TK BN reverted to own BN and RESERVE COMMAND moved back to Assembly Area at MAGEROTTE (P452552) and prepared for future operations. 29-31 Received orders to prepare to move E on DIVISION Order, prepared to attack SIEGFRIED LINE. No change; remained in Assembly Area carrying on personal maintenance and of vehicles and equipment. During period 24 31 Jan 45, reinforcements were received, bringing strength of RESERVE COMMAND from 834 to 1084. For the Commanding Officer: CHARLES C. GRANT Major, Infantry S-3 APO 261, U.S. Army 4 March 1945 SUBJECT: Action against the Enemy for period 1 Feb to 1 Mar 1945 TO: Commanding General, 11th Armored Division, APO 261, U.S. Army 1. The following report is submitted of the action of RESERVE COMMAND against the Enemy for the period 1 February 1945 to 1 March 1945, as required by AR 345-105 C3. FEBRUARY 1945 1-3 The period found RESERVE COMMAND in the town of MAGEROTTE, BELGIUM (P452552), where the Germans had first been contacted by this unit. The period was spent in rehabilitation of units with personnel, vehicles, and ordnance maintenance given first consideration. Small unit problems, involving tanks and infantry, were conducted with B CO, 55th ARMD INF BN moving to 22nd TK BN area, and B CO, 22nd TK BN moving to MAGEROTTE. Movies were shown and news broadcast to troops. TROOPS Hqs Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn Strength - 1066 4 CO, RESERVE COMMAND was called to 11th ARMD DIV HQS in BASTOGNE, BELGUM (P555385), at 1330, 3 Feb 1945, to receive orders to move forward and take over in zone of 90th INF DIV. CO, RESERVE COMMAND and reconnaissance and contacted VIII CORPS, returning to MAGEROTTE at 0300, 4 Feb 1945. Orders were issued for movement and preparations made to move and clear BASTOGNE, BELGIUM, by 1000, 4 Feb 1945. All units closed in vicinity BORG REWLAND, BELGIUM (P85887), by 2100, 4 Feb 1945. Units were picked up by column from a radius of 30 miles and placed in the column. Period was marked with rain and thawing snow. TROOPS Hqs Reserve Command 55th Armd Inf Bn 21st Armd Inf Bn 63rd Armd Inf Bn 41st Cav Rcn Sqd (Mecz) (-) B Co, 22nd Tk Bn C Co, 56th Armd Engr Bn D Btry, 575 AA (AW) Bn B Co, 602 TD Bn B Co, 81st Armd Med Bn Detach 151 Armd Sig Co Detach 133 Ord-Maint Bn Strength 4006 No contact with enemy at close of period. Dispositions: See overlay RESERVE COMMAND Period Report No. 35, 5 Feb 1945. Field Order issued verbally to Bn Comdrs and in overlay form. 5 RESERVE COMMAND took over positions of 90th INF DIV, and assumed responsibility for sector 0800, 5 Feb 1945, and maintained positions prepared to attack. 63rd ARMD INF BN was relieved in front line by 55th ARMD INF BN and moved to supporting position 3000 yards to rear of front lines night of 5-6 Feb 1945. Intermittent rains continued. No change in troops. 6 RESERVE COMMAND jumped off for attack at 0400, with 21st ARMD INF BN on the left flank and the 55th ARMD INF BN on the right flank. 41st CAV (-) protected and contained right flank, pushing out reconnaissance. All objectives were secured by 1022A, and positions organized and prepared for further action. German positions were overrun and 183 Germans were taken prisoners. Chief causes of casualties to our personnel were from mines and booby traps, although casualties to friendly troops were light. Engineers began to clear minefields in sector and clear roads. Cavalry patrols moved into towns of LUTZKAMPEN (902728) and BERG (908749). Map Sheet 5803, LEIDENBORN, 1/25,000. Contact adjacent units: 90th INF DIV on left and 6th ARMD DIV on right. German counter-attack of two Company strength beaten off by 21st ARMD INF BN at 0430, 6 Feb 1945. Continued showers. 63rd ARMD INF BN released to CC-A, 11th ARMD DIV. Position subjected to heavy nebelwerfer, arty, and mortar fire. There was considerable German infiltration of our lines at night. Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 2 Killed 50 (Est) WIA 54 Wounded 25 Captured 163 Tanks 1 MK3 damaged (FA) 1 SP neutral 7 RESERVE COMMAND prepared to jump off for attack at 0400. Attack held up pending 90th INF DIV moving up on left flank. D TP, 41 CAV, and B CO, 56th ARMD ENGR BN joined RESERVE COMMAND 0700. Tanks and TDs moved up to our forward positions inside SIEGFRIED LINE. Engineers continued road reconnaissance and clearing of mines and repairing roads. Positions received heavy mortar, nebelwerfer and arty fire. Strength Reserve Command - 3361 Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 2 Killed 25 WIA 54 Captured 34 M - 1 Tanks 3 Destroyed Pillboxes 3 MG 1 Destroyed 8 Present positions were maintained and some patrol activity. Propaganda shells shot into German lines. Ops were occupied in forward positions. Heavy nebelwerfer, arty and mortar fire received. Troops: No change. Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 5 Killed 30 WIA 37 Captured 34 1 Angle Dozer 1 Arty Piece 1 2 ½ Ton Trk 9 Positions and OPs maintained. 41st CAV given the mission of sending strong patrols to vicinity of HARSPELT (885723) and SEVENIG (875712), to feel out enemy and try to obtain contact with 6th ARMD DIV east of OUR RIVER. 63rd ARMD INF BN rejoined RESERVE COMMAND and relieved 21st ARMD INF BN on line who moved to vicinity HECKHALENFELD (902778). Relief completed by 1615, 9 Feb 1945. Heavy nebelwerfer, arty and mortar fire received on all positions. Propaganda P.A. directed at enemy. Engineers repairing roads and clearing minefields. Propaganda, while helping to influence a few Germans to desert, brings very heavy fire on our front. Strength Reserve Command - 4267 Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 1 Killed 25 WIA 6 Captured 18 10 63rd ARMD INF BN moved one company out from position and cleared out 5 pillboxes and 5 bunkers, and captured 14 men and 1 officer, S and SE of present position. All positions received heavy arty, mortar, and nebelwerfer fire. Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 2 Killed Unknown WIA 9 Captured 31 Wounded 20 5 - Pillboxes 5 Bunkers 1112 21st ARMD INF BN released from RESERVE COMMAND at 1700 and moved from vicinity HECKHALENFELD (902778) at 1720, 11 Feb 1945, to join CC-B at WEISWAMPACH (812722). 63rd ARMD INF BN relieved in line by 2nd BN, 357 INF REGT. Relief completed by 0130A, 12 Feb 1945, and63rd ARMD INF BN moved to relieve 41 CAV in place. 41st CAV relieved by 0645, 12 Feb 1945 and came under control of 6th ARMD DIV at 0800, 12 Feb 1945. 55th ARMD INF BN relieved by 2nd BN 357 INF REGT and moved to reserve position at rear of 63rd ARMD INF BN. D BTRY, 575 AA (AW) BN released to DIV ARTY 1800, 11 Feb 1945. B CO, 56th ARMD ENGR BN released to CC-B 1130, 11 Feb 1945, and C CO, 56th ARMD ENGR BN continued maintenance of roads in RESERVE COMMAND sector. Strength Reserve Command - 2419 Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 1 Killed Unknown WIA 5 Captured 4 13 No change in situation. Maintained contact with 90th INF DIV on left and CC-B on right. Continued moderate arty, nebelwerfer, and mortar fire on front line. Our Losses Enemy Losses Casualties 6 Captured - 6 14 Period was covered with scattered showers and limited visibility. A group of 20-25 Germans with s/a weapons moved under cover of mortar fire from draw vicinity 903708 to S edge of LUTZKAMPEN (902728) where they were observed and taken under fire by the OPs of C CO, 63rd ARMD INF BN. C CO was supported by assault gun platoon 63rd ARMD INF BN, and enemy forced to withdraw. We suffered no losses. Losses to enemy unknown. A CO, 602 TD BN relieved B CO, 602 TD BN during night 13-14 Feb 1945. Received considerable German small arms fire about 1730 14 Feb 1945 on our front line. Our Losses Enemy Losses WIA 4 Unknown 15 Period was limited to local patrol activity and consolidation of positions. OPs were maintained and many German positions located and our mortar, assault gun and arty fire brought to bear on suspected localities and positions. Our front lines received mortar and arty fires during late morning and early afternoon and again at 2130 in the evening. Our Losses Enemy Losses WIA 10 Unknown 16 No change in front lines. 55th ARMD INF BN relieved 63rd ARMD INF BN during night and relief was completed by 0030, 16 Feb 1945. C Co, 21st ARMD INF BN relieved CO A of 63 ARMD INF BN on our right front due to change in boundary between CC-R and CC-B, to narrow front in preparation for attack. No casualties inflicted on our ranks. 17 DIV ARTY moved one (1) M12 155mm SP into area for direct fire into pillboxes and demolished 3 pillboxes at 90477189, 91607265 and 9087724. Engineers gave instructions to 63rd ARMD INF BN in use and construction of C2 explosives and bangalore torpedoes. Our Losses Enemy Losses WIA 3 Captured 2 18-19 Infantry jumped off on attack, supported by
tanks at 0545, 18 Feb 1945 without artillery support, from vicinity BERG,
GERMANY (908749), taking successive objectives; encountering minefields, heavy
mortar, arty, and light small arms fire.
C Co, 56th ARMD ENGR BN blew a path through the dragon teeth at 0915,
using 600 lbs C2, and blew two rows of 8 teeth each, minefield in front and
also at rear of teeth. Tanks moved up
to support advance units and engaged eight (8) pillboxes. Tank fire made no penetration. German attempt to advance on LUTZKAMPEN
(902728) at beginning of attack repulsed.
Formation of column of BNs, 63rd ARMD INF BN in advance followed by 55th
ARMD INF BN. Our 63rd ARMD INF BN
taking pillboxes, from 914725 and 922739, 55th ARMD INF BN with two platoons of
tanks and one platoon of ENGRS, passed through the 63rd ARMD INF BN to take
LEIDENBORN (921721) and HERZFELD (910716).
Slight German attack was repulsed by C CO, 55th ARMD INF BN at 923723,
and during the night, ENGRS constructed bridge (923716), to prepare for attack. RESERVE COMMAND Strength 2236 Our Losses Enemy Losses WIA 14 Captured 79 20 63rd ARMD INF BN jumped off for attack at 0700 to Objective #5 (SENGERICH 913705). Objective was reached by 0830, 19 Feb and security detachments sent out to secure key terrain points. S of SENGERICH. Heavy arty and mortar fire was received in SENGERICH on taking of town. Preliminary arty concentration fired from 0650 to 0700. Tanks and ENGRS closely supported attack. Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 3 Killed 50 (Est) WIA 39 Captured 52 M 1 21 55th ARMD INF BN jumped off at 0700 to take ROSCHEID (894704), and clear out pillboxes NE and NW of ROSCHEID to SEVENIG-ROSCHEID Road. Mission completed by C936. B CO, 22nd TK BN (-1 PLAT) and C CO, 56th ARMD ENGR BN supported attack. Artillery obtained four direct hits on a tank at 908688 and a BN TOT mission was fired on German troops at REIFF, (913677). Casualties were seen. 1 PLAT of B BTRY, 575 AA (AW) BN was attacked to RESERVE COMMAND and took up guard of civilians in LUTZKAMPEN. PLAT CO B, 56th ARMD ENGR BN attached to C CO, 56th ARMD ENGR BN. Smoke missions screened our work. Strength Reserve Command 2218 Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA 7 Killed 60 (Est) WIA 29 Captured 62 1 Dozer (Mines) 1 tank destroyed 1 81mm piece destroyed 61 pillboxes occupied or neutralized during day 22 55th ARMD INF BN, with two platoons Tanks and Platoon CO C, 56th ARMD ENGR BN, secured Objective at ESCHFELD (902693), 0820, 22nd Feb 1945 and was moving to consolidate ground. 63rd ARMD INF BN, with tank and Engr support secured objective at REIFF (913677), and was attempting to consolidate ground S of Objective at 0848. Field Artillery fired initial concentration on each Objective, and covered critical areas with smoke. 63rd ARMD INF BN moved into REIFF mounted, under cover of smoke, to take bulk of prisoners before they could react to mounted attack. Area was patrolled and position consolidated; OPs established at key points along DIV boundaries. Our Losses Enemy Losses Killed 40 (Est) WIA 6 Captured 102 1 H/T for Repair 1 tank destroyed 3 88mm guns destroyed 1 75 or 76mm Arty pc Destroyed 23 Infantry and Tanks consolidated positions along DIV boundaries and patrolled sector. Contacted 90th INF DIV on left and established contact with 6th ARMD DIV on South. RESERVE COMMAND successfully completed mission of taking DIVISION final objective and maintaining contact with adjacent units. RESERVE COMMAND mission completed as of 1200, 23 Feb 1945, and will occupy towns within sector. A CO, 602 TD BN relieved from RESERVE COMMAND and joined 90th INF DIV. Strength Reserve Command 2052 Our Losses Enemy Losses KIA - 1 Killed 86 (Est) WIA 20 Captured 148 2 H/T Psl repair 48 hrs. Towed 75 mm pc (Arty) destroyed Assorted small arms 24 No change. 25 63rd ARMD INF BN joined CC-A on march, 0700, 1st PLAT D BTRY 575 AA (AW) BN joined DIV ARTY 1100. CO C, 56th ARMD ENGR BN and CO B, 22nd TK BN released to their parent outfits as of 1300, 25 Feb 1945. RESERVE COMMAND with 55th ARMD INF BN moved 1300 from LUTZKAMPEN and closed in new area at 1500 (LASCHEID, BELGIUM-849778). RESERVE COMMAND and 55th ARMD INF BN Ops set up in LASCHEID. B CO and SV CO, 55th ARMD INF BN in BRACET, BELGIUM (P865802); CO C in MASPELT, BELGIUM (869819) and A CO in GRUFFLANGE, BELGIUM (828818). Reserve Command Strength 891 26-28 Maintenance of vehicles and personnel. Movies shown. No change. RECAPITULATION Our Forces Enemy Forces Killed 22 Killed 366 (Est) Wounded 250 Wounded 45 (Est) Missing 2 Captured 668 Pillboxes and Bunkers estimated 215 neutralized or occupied during period 4-25 Feb 1945 (see map attached). Material Material 1 H/T M15 Comb 5 Tanks (Unknown Type) 1 H/T M16 Comb 3 Arty Guns (horse drawn) 2 Ton Trlrs unknown calibre 2 2 ½ Ton Cargo Tks 2 Mortars (unknown calibre) 2 Angle Dozers 3 81mm Mortars 1 Towed 88mm Gun 1 Towed 76mm Gun 1 Towed 75mm Gun 1 American Tank 1 H/T For the Commanding Officer: Charles C. Grant Major, Inf. S-3 HEADQUARTERS RESERVE COMMAND Eleventh Armored Division APO 261, U.S. Army 8 April 1945 SUBJECT: After Action Report TO: Commanding General, 11th Armored Division, APO 261, U.S. Army 1. In compliance with Operations Memorandum No. 19, Hqs 11th AD, the attached Report of Action against the Enemy, covering period 1 March to 1 April 1945, is submitted. 2. No copies of written field orders, are attached insofar as all action was controlled by oral orders and messages. For the Commanding Officer:
CHARLES C. GRANT Maj, Inf S-3
HEADQUARTERS RESERVE COMMAND Eleventh Armored Division APO 261, U.S. Army 8 April 1945 SUBJECT: Action against the enemy for period 1 March to 1 April 1945 TO: Commanding General, 11th Armored Division, APO 261, U.S. Army 1. The following report is submitted of the action of RESERVE COMMAND against the enemy for the period of 1 March 1945 to 1 April 1945, as required by AR 345-105 C3. MARCH 1945 1-2 RESERVE COMMAND, with CO A, 22nd TK BN, moved into BUCHET, GERMANY, at 0800 1 March 1945. 3 CO A, 22nd TK BN, reverted to DIVISION control as RESERVE for DIVISION 0800 3 March 1945. 4 No Troops. Remained at BUCHET, GERMANY. 41st CAV RCN SQD MECZ (-) joined RESERVE COMMAND and closed in assembly area at 1930. 5 Negative operations. No change. 6 RESERVE COMMAND marched to FLERIGEN, GERMANY (118796) and closed new area 1630 6 March. 7-8 A CO, 22nd TK BN was attached to RESERVE COMMAND in vicinity of NEDR BETTINGEN. RESERVE COMMAND moved to assembly area E of BUDDESHEIM at 1630 7 March and moved behind CCB to ESCHWEILER and then to KELBERG, GERMANY. Assumed responsibility for DIVISION PWs and left TRP D 41st CAV RCN SQD MECZ to guard them.
Troops Hq Reserve Command Co A, 22nd Tk Bn 41st Cav Rcn Sqd Mecz (-) Total Strength 606 9 DIV HQ was attached to RESERVE COMMAND for march and all units closed in KELBERG 0600, 9 March and closed in MAYEN 1430, 9 March. A CO 22nd TK BN closed in MAYEN 1600 9 March. Total Strength 714 Losses 0 PWs 400 10 RESERVE COMMAND moved to KOTTENHIEM at 1300 and clear surrounding towns of enemy and occupy the 5 surrounding towns. Entire area was under continuous patrol. Weapons pick up. 11-13 Mission of securing and occupying all towns in area and of patrolling and clearing all woods in area continued and was completed and all troops concentrated in KOTTENHEIM (659948). Limited patrolling continued. Moved from KOTTENHEIM and in new area 2 miles N of MAYEN at 1530, 13 March. 14 55th ARMD INF BN reverted to RESERVE COMMAND in present position as did the 22nd TK BN. The 41st CAV RCN SQD MECZ (-) reverted to DIVISION control.
Troops Hq Reserve Command 22nd Tk Bn 55th Armd Inf Bn Total Strength 1591 15-16 No Change. 17 RESERVE COMMAND moved 0030 17 March on night march from vicinity WEIBERN, GERMANY and closed in new area vicinity ALFLEN (505755) GERMANY 1000 17 March prepared for further action. Moved out 2000 17 March. 18 RESERVE COMMAND closed in new area 0310 vicinity HAHN (667516) GERMANY. Moved out 1400 18 March and closed in LAUTERSWEILER 1630. Total Strength 1580 Captured - 4 PWs Losses - None 19 RESERVE COMMAND marched 0900 from LAUTERSWEILER and closed in GRIEBELSCHEID (759333) GERMANY and closed at 1200. Moved out 1600 to MEISENHEIM (951231), GERMANY and closed at 2100. Light column was dispatched to GANGLOFF, GERMANY to take over PWs of CCB. Cleared towns of ODENBACH, REHBORN, RAUMBACH and BECHERBACH. Losses None Captured 550 PWs 20 RESERVE COMMAND moved to ROCKENHAUSEN (060140) GERMANY. 2nd TK BN moved 1300, 20 March, from MEISENHEIM and closed at 1520. 55th ARMD INF BN marched 1320, 20 March and on reaching BECKERBACH, it was learned enemy had captured 2 men and 2 Ό ton trucks and taken them to woods N of GINSWEILER. CO A, 55th ARMD INF BN, plus ASSAULT GUN PLAT plus 1 Light Tank moved from column and took woods under fire. Result: 91 PWs and numerous enemy killed and wounded. Platoon of Infantry was left in towns of NUSSBACH, RUDOLPHKIRCHEN, DOORMOSCHEL and DORNBACH to clean out towns and pick up PWs. Entire column, less 1 Infantry Platoon in GANGLOFF closed ROCKENHAUSEN at 1900, 20 March. The 2 Ό ton trucks and 2 enlisted mean from 22nd TK BN were rescued. Total Strength 1643 1 Missing since 19 March 45 Enemy Killed 25 PWs 225 (At Gangloff, taken from woods) 670 (Picked up from columns moving fwd and in nearby woods maintained in MEISENHEIM) 920 21 RESERVE COMMAND continued to clear towns and woods in area. 706 TD BN (-) attached. Continuous patrolling and picking up of weapons. Total Strength 1693 Our Losses: 0 (Man reported missing recovered from Enemy) Enemy Losses: Killed Unknown Captured 348 Material: 1 120mm Arty Piece 45 Panzerfaust 632 S/A, various calibre 46 Machine Guns 22 No Change Continued clearing and patrolling. Total Strength 1712 Our Losses 0 Enemy Losses: Killed 5 Captured 123 Material: 895 S/A Assorted 2 Nebelwerfers 166- Machine Pistols 23 No Change.
Total Strength 1756 Our Losses 0 Enemy Losses: Captured 24 Material: 2 75 mm AT Guns 6 GP Vehicles 130 Rifles 2 Machine Guns 4 Nebelwerfers 24 RESERVE COMMAND moved from ROCKENHAUSEN 0800. Closed in KIRCHHEIM BOLANDEN (198188) GERMANY at 1030. Maintenance of vehicles and personnel. Went under XXth CORPS as of 1115, 24 March 45. 25-28 No Change. 29 RESERVE COMMAND moved from KIRCHHEIM-BOLANDEN 0900 and crossed RHINE RIVER 1430, vicinity OPPEHHEIM, en-route to vicinity HAINSTADT, GERMANY, and closed 29 March 45, at 2130. 30 Moved 0700, 30 March to vicinity MITTE GRUNDEN (9882) GERMANY and closed 2200. 55th ARMD INF BN was sent to assist CCA 1100, 30 March and reverted to RESERVE COMMAND at ROTH, 2300, 30 March and was given the mission of protecting rear and right flank of 11th AD until relieved by elements 104 INF. Balance of RESERVE COMMAND at MITTE GRUNDEN. For the Commanding Officer: CHARLES C. GRANT Maj, Inf. S-3 HEADQUARTERS RESERVE COMMAND Eleventh Armored Division APO 261, U.S. Army 18 June 1945 SUBJECT: After Action Report TO: Commanding General, 11th Armored Division, APO 261, U.S. Army 1. In compliance with Operations Memorandum No. 19, Hqs 11th AD, the attached Report of Action against the Enemy, covering period 1 May to 9 May 1945, is submitted. 2. No copies of written field orders are attached insofar as all action was controlled by oral orders and messages. For the Commanding Officer:
CHARLES C. GRANT Maj, Inf S-3 HEADQUARTERS RESERVE COMMAND Eleventh Armored Division APO 261, U.S. Army 18 June 1945 SUBJECT: Action against the enemy for period 1 May to 9 May 1945 TO: Commanding General, 11th Armored Division, APO 261, U.S. Army 1. The following report is submitted of the action of RESERVE COMMAND against the Enemy for the period 1 May to 9 May 1945, as required by AR 345-105 C3. MAY 1945 1 The first of the month found RESERVE COMMAND with the 42nd TK BN and 63rd ARMD INF BN attached in bivouac for the night vicinity of JANDELSBRUNN GERMANY (373318). Outposted North and West flank of DIVISION. Cleared route from SONNEN GERMANY (4026) to WEGSCHEID, GERMANY (55181) and alternate routes from WEGSCHEID to OBER KAPEL, GERMAN (448128) and completed mission by 1630, 1 May 1945. RESERVE COMMAND closed in KASBERG, GERMANY (4420) 2330, 1 May 1945. Weather: Continued snow and sleet.
Troops Hq Reserve Command 42nd Tank Bn 63rd Armd Inf Bn Plat 133rd Ord-Maint Total Strength 1781 Our Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 300 Hungarians; 19 Germans 2 RESERVE COMMAND moved from KASBERG, GERMANY (4420) and proceeded to PEILSTEIN, AUSTRIA (535200), closing in at 1930, 2 May 1945. Positions were taken up on DIVISIONs North flank. Continued snow and sleet. Total Strength 1779 Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 51 3 RESERVE COMMAND remained on alert status in HEILSTEIN, AUSTRIA until orders received to moved to ALTENFELDEN, AUSTRIA (5906) at 1700 3 May 1945. Orders received on march to dispatch force to NEUFELDEN, AUSTRIA (6206) to secure Bridgehead over MUHL R and protect Engineers constructing bridge. C CO, 63rd ARMD INF BN closed in to bridge site at 1800, 3 May 1945. Balance of COMMAND closed in assembly area at ALTENFELDEN, AUSTRIA at 2330, 3 May 1945, and prepared for further movement. Total Strength 1778 Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 21 4 RESERVE COMMAND received orders fro following morning at 0045, 4 May 1945. Moved out 0700, 4 May 1945 with mission to clear road from NEUFELDEN to DUNZENOF, AUSTRIA. Mission completed at 0900 and received orders to march on ST. JOHANN, AUSTRIA (7207), reaching that town at 1200, 4 May 1945. At this point, the COMMAND was held up by bad roads. RESERVE COMMAND closed at ZWETTL, AUSTRIA (8206) at 1830, 4 May 1945. COMMAND set up a perimeter defense North and East of ZWETTL to protect the North flank of the DIVISION and cutting all roads leading to LENZ, AUSTRIA from the CZECHOSLOVAKIAN Border. Total Strength 1781 Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 32 5 Maintained outposts and roadblocks. Continued patrolling in area running North to LEONFELDEN, AUSTRIA (8312). Liberated 62 Allied PWs in vicinity of LEONFELDEN, dispersing 16 enemy guards. Patrols to INNERSCHLAG, 1 Km South OBER NEUKIRCHEN, AUSTRIA (7905) and surrounding area produced only negative reports. Total Strength 1785 Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 14 6 No change. Dispatched platoon of C CO, 63rd ARMD INF BN to ROHRBACH, AUSTRIA (6016) at 1700, 6 May 1945, to guard PWs. Received order for no more offensive action from 11th ARMORED DIVISION.
Total Strength 1786 Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 27 7 Maintained patrols and outposts. C CO (-), 63rd ARMD INF BN moved to URFAHR, AUSTRIA (8489) and took over Police of town and guarding of bridges into LINZ over DANUBE R. Total Strength 1790 Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 10 8 No change. Maintained patrols and outposts. Continued police and guard of PWs and bridge at URFAHR and ROHRBACH. War with Germany officially ends and occupation duties commenced at 0001, 9 May 1945. Total Strength 1787 Losses 0 Enemy Losses PWs 25 For the Commanding Officer: CHARLES C. GRANT Maj, Inf. S-3
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