WWII - 70 Years Ago

[dschneck]

Thursday, January 25, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of 170 A-20s and B-26s to hit communications centers and railroad bridges, overpasses, and lines in western Germany, with the aim of harassing and obstructing troop movement.

 

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division captures Linne and Putbroek, and continues northeast toward the river line. The 52^nd Division takes Kirchhoven, without opposition, and patrols toward the Wurm River.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 1^st Division’s 16^th Infantry gains Amblève and Mirfeld, with ease.

 

In the US Ninth Army area, XIII Corps’ 102^nd Division, and the attached 11^th Cavalry Group, attack, during the night, and clear the Brachelen–Himmerich–Randerath triangle, west of the Roer River, against negligible resistance.

 

In the US Third Army area, the bulk of III Corps is now across the Clerf River, attacking east, toward a ridge road known as “Skyline Drive,” which is actually the Luxemburg–St. Vith road that parallels the Our River. Combat Command B, of the 6^th Armored Division, gains positions astride the Weiswampach–Huldange road. The 359^th Infantry, of the 90^th Division, takes Hupperdange and Grindhausen. The 357^th infantry seizes Heinerscheid and Lausdorn. The 26^th Division’s 101^st Infantry, together with elements of the 6^th Cavalry Group, occupies Clerf. The 328^th Infantry takes Reuler and Urspelt.

 

In the XII Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 11, of the 5^th Division, continues north, taking Merscheid. The 317^th Infantry, of the 80^th Division, clears Wilwerwiltz and establishes a bridgehead across the Clerf River, and captures Pintsch, east of the river.

 

In the XX Corps area’s 94^th Division zone, an 8^th Armored Division Task Force takes Berg, as elements of the 302^nd Infantry enlarge the gap through anti-tank defenses.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the Germans penetrate positions of the 103^rd Division, reaching Schillersdorf and Nieffern, and force back the 103^rd Division outpost line, from Kindwiller. The 103^rd Division restores its main line of resistance, between Muhlhausen and Schillersdorf. Task Force Wahl clears Schweighausen and part of Bois de Ohlungen. The Germans attack across the Moder River, between Haguenau and Kaltenhouse, in a sector of the 242^nd Infantry, but are driven back across river.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s II Corps area, the French make slow progress in the Elsenheim woods, where armor is held up by enemy tanks.

 

Eastern Europe

The Third and Second White Russian Fronts are compressing a German pocket in East Prussia.

 

The First Ukrainian Front takes Ostrow, southwest of Kalisz, in Poland, and Oels, in German Silesia.

 

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 21 P-51s to hit rail targets and airfields in the Peking area, of China.

 

Tokyo orders their China Expeditionary Forces to concentrate on the seacoast and northern China, rather than to move into the interior.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 24 P-47s to support ground forces, while 12 B-25s pound the Heho Airfield, and over 80 fighter-bombers attack troops, supplies, and targets of opportunity.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the 113^th Regiment, of the Chinese 38^th Division, attacks to finish opening the Burma Road.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, operating in force, again pound Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, on Luzon Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 158^th Infantry, of the 43^rd Division, takes Hills 600 and 800, bypassing Hill 700. The 169^th Infantry clears Hill 1500, and the 3^rd Battalion, of the 63^rd Infantry, takes Bench Mark Hill to the north. The 158^th Infantry continues its efforts to gain the ridge northwest of Cataguintingan. The 72^nd Infantry takes Hill 900, overlooking Highway 11, which leads to Baguio.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 14 B-24s, based on Saipan Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island, in the afternoon.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 more B-24s, flying individual harassment strikes at various intervals, to pound Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Friday, January 26, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army area, XXII Corps successfully concludes Operation BLACKCOCK. A small enemy bridgehead remains at Vlodrop, but no immediate effort is to be made to eliminate it.

 

In the US Third Army area, elements of VIII Corps advance northeast into the region north of Weiswampach, as the enemy continues their withdrawal behind the West Wall.

 

In the III Corps area, the 26^th Division’s 328^th Infantry secures Fischbach. The 101^st Infantry clears Marnach and the high ground east of Clerf and Drauffelt.

 

In the XII Corps zone, Regimental Combat Team 11, of the 5^th Division, captures Hoscheiderdickt. The 5^th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop clears Schlindermanderscheid. The 80^th Division expands its bridgehead across the Clerf River. The 317^th Infantry takes Lellingen and Siebenaler, and reaches positions near Bockholz.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s II Corps area, the 1^st Moroccan Division is clearing the Illhaeusern–Jebsheim road. The US 3^rd Division makes substantial gains, as the 7^th Infantry clears Houssen and Rosenkranz, the 15^th Infantry takes Riedwihr, and the 254^th Infantry gets elements into Jebsheim.

 

Eastern Europe

The Red Army drives a salient between East Prussia and Danzig, as the Second White Russian Front captures Marienberg, and reaches the Gulf of Danzig, northeast of Elbing.

 

In Poland, the First Ukrainian Front seizes Hindenburg, in the Silesia region.

 

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 30 – During the night, 26 B-29s mine Saigon, Camranh Bay and Phan Rang Bay, in French Indochina.

 

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 31 – During the night, 50 B-29s mine the six approaches to Singapore harbor and Penang harbor, in Malaysia, and the Pakchan River and Koh Si Chang Channel, in Thailand.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends eight fighter-bombers to support ground forces in the Namhkam area. Meanwhile, over 140 more fighter-bombers hit troops, supplies, guns, railroad targets, and targets of opportunity. Transports fly over 500 sorties to advanced bases and frontline areas.

 

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) XV Corps area, Royal Marines, from the East Indies Fleet, invade Cheduba Island, southwest of Ramree Island, with the support of naval aircraft.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s hit coastal guns on Corregidor Island and in Balete Pass, while B-25s bomb the Cabcaben Airfield area and coastal guns on Carabao Island, and A-20s attack Grande Island coastal defenses at the mouth of Subic Bay. On Mindanao Island, B-25s bomb Likanan and Sasa, and P-38s strafe the same targets and hit Padada.

 

In the XIV Corps area, the 160^th Infantry clears Hills 636 and 600.

 

In the I Corps area, the 158^th Infantry, of the 43^rd Division finishes clearing the ridge northwest of Cataguintingan. Some elements of the 172^nd Infantry secure Rosario, while other elements are moving toward the Udaio road junction.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 17 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island airfields.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 B-24s, from Saipan and Guam Island, on individual harassment raids against the Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Saturday, January 27, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US First Army’s XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, Combat Command B, of the 7^th Armored Division, is slowly clearing Bois de St. Vith.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division occupies several towns in the area south of St. Vith. The 90^th Division continues to clear the west bank of the Our River. The 358^th Infantry, attacking north across the border of Luxembourg, secures Lascheid, Belgium.

 

In the XII Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 11, of the 5^th Division, takes Weiler and Wahlhausen, while the 5^th Reconnaissance Troop clears Consthum and Holzthum. A Task Force, based on the 317^th Infantry, of the 80^th Division, clears the high ground west of Hosingen and captures Bockholz, Neidhausen, Dorscheid, and Marburg, concluding the division’s drive.

 

In the US Seventh Army area, VI Corps makes light contact with the enemy.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s II Corps area, the French clear the Elsenheim road and forest, and head for Jebsheim. The US 3^rd Division’s 30^th Infantry takes Holtzwihr and Wickerswihr. The 254^th Infantry clears large portion of Jebsheim.

 

Eastern Europe
White Russian troops overrun the Masurian Lake region, of East Prussia, and continue the investment of Koenigsberg.

 

In Poland, the encirclement of Thorn and Posen by the Red Army is completed.

 

In central Czechoslovakia, the Fourth Rumanian Army captures Dobsina.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers continue the interdiction of communications, with good results, against motor transport, trains, rail lines, bridges, and storage dumps. P-47s destroy an oil plant near Fornovo di Taro.

 

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 32 – 25 B-29s, based in India, hit the navy yard and arsenal at Saigon, French Indochina, and one bombs a bridge at Bangkok, Thailand.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches over 30 fighter-bombers to support ground forces at Mansak, Molo Ywama, the area south of Molo, and the area south of Banwe, all in Burma. Eight others knock out a bypass bridge at Bawgyo, and about 100 fighter-bombers hit troop concentrations, supplies, and targets of opportunity. Transports fly 527 sorties to advanced bases and over forward areas, landing men and landing and dropping supplies.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, a blockade of China is broken as the Chinese 38^th Division, assisted by artillery and armor, links up with Y-Force troops on the Burma Road, opening a land route to China.

 

In the British Fourteenth Army’s IV Corps area, Pauk falls to the Indian 7^th Division.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, B-24s, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF), pound the Canacao seaplane base, Cavite, and Grande Island, at the mouth of Subic Bay, while B-25s hit Cabcaben and the airfield at Calingatan.

 

In the XIV Corps area, continuing operations west of Bamban, the 40^th Division has secured the Manila railroad and Route 3, from Bamban south to Mantitang. The 37^th Division quickly takes Culayo and Dau, and pushes on to Angeles, which is undefended.

 

In the I Corps area, as the 27^th Infantry, of the 25^th Division, reaches Asingan, without difficulty, the 161^st Infantry continues costly fighting at San Manuel. The Damortis–Rosario road is opened with the junction of the 172^nd and 158^th Regiments, at Cataguintingan, in the 43^rd Division zone.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 19 B-24s, based on Saipan Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island. In the Palau Islands, of the Caroline Islands, one B-24, from Angaur Island, bombs Arakabesan Island.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 24 – 76 B-29s are dispatched from the Mariana Islands against the Musashiho and Nakajima aircraft plants near Tokyo.

[dschneck]

Sunday, January 28, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 809 – With the prospect of improved weather over Germany, 1,006 bombers and 249 fighters are dispatched to hit marshalling yards, bridges and benzol plants at Dortmund.

 

The RAF dispatches 153 Lancasters to attack the railway yards at Cologne/Gremberg.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 316 Halifaxes, 258 Lancasters, and 28 Mosquitos to two targets in the Stuttgart area.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches 95 B-26s to hit a communications center at Mayen, rail bridges and an overpass at Eller, Sinzig, Remagen, and Kaiserslautern.

 

The US First Army opens a drive toward the West Wall and Euskirchen before dawn. XVIII Corps (Airborne) attacks northeast, with the 1^st Division on the north and the 82^nd Airborne Division on the south. The 1^st Division’s 16^th Infantry takes Valender, the 18^th Infantry gains Heppenbach and Hepscheid, and the 26^th Infantry clears Richelbusch. The 82^nd Airborne Division attacks through the 7^th Armored Division, with the 325^th Glider Infantry on the north and the 504^th Parachute Infantry on the south, clearing the woods, up to Wereth, and taking Herresbach. The 7^th Armored Division concludes its St. Vith drive, with the reduction of stubborn hill positions in Bois de St. Vith.

 

In the US Third Army area, most of VIII Corps has reached the Our River. The 90^th Division’s 358^th Infantry captures Weweler and Stoubach.

 

Eastern Europe

The Germans yield Memel, to the First Baltic Front, and the Soviet conquest of Lithuania is complete.

 

The Russians close the ring around Koenigsberg and compress the enemy pocket, in the central part of East Prussia, with the capture of Bischofsburg and Sensburg. The enemy holds out in Elbing and exerts pressure northwest of Allenstein. Thrusting toward Germany, on a broad front, Red Army troops take the Polish border cities of Sepolno, Czarnkow, and Leszno, and Guhrau, across the Silesian border. To the south, the First Ukrainian Front completes the capture of major industrial cities along the border of Upper Silesia and Poland, taking Beuthen, in Silesia, and Katowice, in Poland.

 

In the Carpathians, the Fourth Ukrainian Front drives to Poprad, Czechoslovakia.

 

China Theater

In China, a group of 23 P-40s and P-51s, from the 14^th Air Force, attack railway and river traffic.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 40 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, support ground forces southeast of Banwe, east of Molo, south of Molo Ywama, and near Namhkam. 80 fighter-bombers hit troop concentrations, supply areas, and enemy movement. Again, over 500 sorties are flown to forward areas by transports.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the first convoy from Ledo resumes its journey toward Kunming, crossing the border of China. Ceremonies are held at Mu-se, and Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek renames the road the Stilwell Road.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, B-25s, A-20s and fighter-bombers concentrate attacks on Luzon Island, with the heaviest tonnage from B-24s falling on Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 129^th Infantry, of the 37^th Division, attacks west, from the Culayo area, toward Clark Field and Ft Stotsenburg. Although the enemy’s outpost line of resistance (OPLR) is soon encountered, they take two Clark Field runways and reach the southeast corner of Ft Stotsenburg. Elements of the 145^th Infantry move northwest, from Angeles, to keep abreast of the 129^th Infantry. A 37^th Reconnaissance Troop patrol, and elements of the 148^th Infantry, reach San Fernando. The 160^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division, working along the Hill 636 to Hill 620 ridge, north of Bamban River, takes Hill 620 and drives 1,200 yards beyond. They narrow their front as the right flank comes under heavy opposition from the enemy’s main line of resistance (MLR).

 

In the I Corps area, as the 161^st Infantry finishes clearing San Manuel, the 25^th Division continues their attack, with the 35^th Regiment, on the right, and the 27^th Regiment, on the left, leaving the 161^st Infantry behind, in the San Manuel area.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 10 B-24s, from Guam Island, and 10, from Saipan Island, to bomb airfields on Iwo Jima Island. In the Palau Islands, two B-24s, from Angaur Island, bomb Arakabesan Island.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 more B-24s on single-bomber harassment raids to the airfields on Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Monday, January 29, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 811 – 1,158 bombers and 700 fighters are dispatched to hit industrial plants at Kassel and rail targets in central Germany, using H2X radar.

 

The RAF dispatches 148 Lancasters to attack the Uerdingen railway yards at Krefeld.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of 364 A- 20s, B-26s, and A-26s to bomb rail bridges, supply and communications centers, and defended areas in western Germany.

 

In the US First Army’s XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 1^st Division captures Buellingen and patrols toward Muerringen and Honsfeld. The 82^nd Airborne Division’s 325^th Glider Infantry captures Wereth and is then passed through by the 508^th Parachute Infantry, which takes Holzheim, Medendorf, and the high ground near Eimerscheid.

 

The US Third Army launches an attack to penetrate the West Wall and protect the First Army’s right flank.

 

In the VIII Corps area, the 87^th, 4^th, and 90^th Divisions attack abreast, from the heights west of the Our River. The 345^th Infantry, of the 87^th Division, captures Schlierbach and Setz, while the 347^th Infantry closes in on Neidingen and Breitfeld. The 8^th Infantry, of the 4^th Division, is held up near Lommersweiler, but the 12^th Infantry bypasses Hemmeres, as it drives across the Our River, and advances into Elcherath. The 90^th Division, whose mission is to protect VIII Corps’ right flank on the east side of the Our River, crosses the river and the German border. The 357^th Infantry crosses near Oberhausen and takes Welchenhausen. The 358^th Infantry crosses near Stupbach and captures that town.

 

III Corps is now on its objective, the north-south ridge and road controlling the Clerf and Our valleys. The 6^th Armored Division patrols aggressively, and, on its left flank, Combat Team Miltonberger clears Kalborn.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s US XXI Corps area, the 3^rd Division crosses the Canal de Colmar, with the 7^th Infantry reaching Bischwihr and the 15^th Infantry advancing to the north edge of Muntzenheim. Although enemy remnants hold out in Jebsheim, the 254^th Infantry clears to the canal south of there and thrusts toward the Rhône–Rhine Canal, east of the town.

 

Eastern Europe

The Germans continue a stubborn defense of Koenigsberg and Elbing, in East Prussia.

 

The First White Russian Front invades Pomerania, taking the German towns of Schoenlanke and Woldenberg.

 

In the Carpathian sector, the Fourth Ukrainian Front gains Nowy Targ, on the southern border of Poland.

 

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force attacks the Pailochi Airfield, river and road shipping, troops, gun positions, buildings, and other targets of opportunity.

 

The Japanese occupy the 14^th Air Force’s base at Suichwan,

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 13 B-25s to knock out road bridges, while 26 P-47s hit troop positions, and 11 P-38s and 16 P-47s attack airfields.

 

In Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the 114^th Regiment, of the Chinese 38^th Division, the closest unit to the enemy withdrawing from the Burma Road, suffers heavily from enemy attacks. A single Chinese company, blocking the road about 80 miles from Lashio, is almost annihilated. This ends efforts to block the road. The US 5332^nd Brigade is under heavy fire as it attempts to improve its positions along the west side of the road.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24 raids concentrate on the Heito Airfield area, of Formosa, and Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, while B-25s bomb nearby Cabcaben, Luzon Island. On Luzon, fighter-bombers and A-20s hit targets of opportunity from Aparri to Echague. Further south, fighters hit gun positions in the Batangas and Verde Islands areas.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 19 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island airfields. Two others, from Saipan Island, on an armed reconnaissance flight, bomb Marcus Island, in the north Pacific. In the Palau Islands, one B-24, from Angaur Island, bombs Arakabesan Island.

 

During the night, five B-24s, from Saipan, continue harassment raids on Iwo Jima airfields.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 25 – 33 Mariana Islands based B-29s are dispatched to two airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, January 30, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Malta

The preliminary phase of the ARGONAUT Conference begins at Malta, with Anglo-American discussions. The ARGONAUT Conference is the code name for the Yalta Conference, and this portion of ARGONAUT is coded CRICKET.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US Ninth Army’s XIX Corps area, the 78^th Division begins a drive southward, to clear to the Roer River line, along the north edge of the Monschau Forest. The 310^th and 311^th Regiments advance abreast, with the 310^th Regiment taking Konzen and the 311^th Regiment gaining most of Kesternich and clearing Huppenbroich. Combat Command A, of the 5^th Armored Division, secures Eicherscheid.

 

In US First Army area, V Corps enters the attack to breach the West Wall, employing the 9^th, 99^th, and 2^nd Divisions, from north to south. The 9^th Division takes Rohren and reaches the edge of the Monschau Forest, east of Alzen. The 393^rd Infantry, of the 99^th Division, advances to the Elsenbuchel woods, east of Elsenborn. The 38^th Infantry, of the 2^nd Division, captures Wirtzfeld and Krinkelt, and gets elements to Rocherath. 9^th Infantry units gain a hill position between Wirtzfeld and Muerringen.

 

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 1^st Division captures the last of three enemy-held towns in its zone, west of the German frontier, as the 18^th Infantry secures Honsfeld and Hunningen, and the 26^th Infantry takes Muerringen.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 346, of the 87^th Division, attacks Andler and Schonberg. The 345^th Infantry takes Rodgen and attacks Heuem.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s US XXI Corps area, the 28^th Division takes limited objectives on the east-west road, north of Colmar. The 7^th Infantry takes Bischwihr and Wihr-en-Plaine. The 15^th Infantry clears Muntzenheim, Fortschwihr, and Urschenheim. The 254^th Infantry overcomes the final resistance in Jebsheim, but is unable to reach the junction of the Colmar and Rhône–Rhine canals.

 

Eastern Europe

Red Army troops cross from Poland into Germany at a number of points, northwest of Bromberg and west of Posen, and take Stolzenburg, 70 miles from Berlin.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In Italy, good weather in the Po River Valley permits full-scale 12^th Air Force operations against communications lines, as B-25s effectively strike the Brenner rail line.

 

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 27 B-24s, escorted by a group of 32 P-40s and P-51s, to bomb Hankow, while eight P-51s hit targets of opportunity in the areas around Loyang, Yuncheng, and Sinantien.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 65 fighter-bombers to support ground forces, while over 100 fighter-bombers attack troops, supplies, artillery, and communications targets. Transports again fly over 500 sorties to forward areas.

 

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) XV Corps area, the Indian 25^th Division, having withstood intense opposition against its Kangaw bridgehead, goes on the offensive and takes Kangaw village.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the main body of the Chinese 38^th Division is at the junction of the Ledo and Burma roads, directed toward Lashio.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the XIV Corps area, the 129^th Infantry, of the 37^th Division, overruns Ft. Stotsenburg and Sapangbato, and begins an attack on the enemy’s main line of resistance (MLR), on the heights to the west. Right flank elements clear hills in the Dolores area.

 

In the I Corps area, the 1^st Infantry secures the Talavera area, but the 20^th Infantry, in a limited attack on Munoz, is pinned down about 1,000 yards short.

 

XI Corps gains all of its initial objectives. Regimental Combat Team 34, of the 24^th Division, quickly takes the town of Subic and drives to the Kalaklan River, where a Japanese force, defending the Route 7 bridge, is driven off. Regimental Combat Team 34 then crosses the Kalaklan River and seizes Olongapo. With the unopposed capture of Grande Island, in an amphibious operation by the 2^nd Battalion, of the 151^st Infantry (38^th Division), XI Corps gains control of Subic Bay.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 17 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to bomb an Iwo Jima Island airfield. Three others bomb the airfield on Woleai Atoll, in the Caroline Islands. In the Palau Islands, five B-24s, from Angaur Island, strike Koror and Arakabesan islands.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches 10 B-24s, from Saipan, to fly single-bomber snooper raids against Iwo Jima airfields.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, January 31, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US Ninth Army’s XIX Corps area, the 78^th Division gains its objectives and makes contact with the US First Army, at Widdau. The 311^th Infantry takes the rest of Kesternich and the 310^th Infantry captures Imgenbroich.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 2^nd Division completes the capture of Rocherath and continues northeast.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, in the 87^th Division sector, Regimental Combat Team 346 captures Andler and Schonberg. The 345^th Infantry takes Amelscheid, Heuem, and Alzerath. The 4^th Division clears Elcherath and Weppeler. The 90^th Division makes contact with the enemy, east of the Our River. The 359^th Infantry advances through Bei Auel and Auel, engages the enemy in positions around Winterspelt and Wallmerath, then bypasses them to advance on Gros Langenfeld and cut main road from Winterspelt to Pronsfeld. The 358^th Infantry captures Heckhalenfeld.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 36th Division opens an attack at 2100 hours on the Oberhoffen– Drusenheim axis, to clear the region west of the Rhine River, to the south.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s US XXI Corps area, the 15^th Infantry is unable to take Durrentzen.

 

Eastern Europe

Continuing the reduction of an enemy pocket in East Prussia, Soviet forces clear Heilsberg and Friedland.

 

The Red Army drives a spearhead to Jestrow, in Pomerania, and in Brandenburg, takes Landsberg, Meseritz, Schwiebus, and Zuellichau.

 

The German garrison of Budapest continues to hold out in the western part of city.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 670 B-24s and B-17s to bomb the oil refinery at Moosbierbaum, Austria, marshalling yards at Graz, Austria, and Maribor, Yugoslavia,

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack railroad bridges at Chiusaforte, Voghera, Lavis, Rovereto, and San Michele all' Adige, and the marshalling yard at Rovereto.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-25s to attack troops and stores at Namlan, while over 50 P-47s attack troops and supplies at several locations. Transports complete 535 sorties to forward bases and frontline areas.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, elements of the British 36^th Division, moving southeast toward Mongmit, reach the Shweli River, in the Myitson area, and sends a patrol across it.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 129^th Infantry, of the 37^th Division, attacks toward a hill mass, called Top of the World, about 1,300 yards from the west edge of Ft. Stotsenburg, and gets halfway up the forward slopes. The 138^th Infantry seizes crossing sites over the Pampanga River, at Calumpit, late in day. The 1^st Cavalry Division starts toward Manila, with motorized squadrons spearheading. Preceding the motorized forces, the Provisional Reconnaissance Squadron crosses the Pampanga River and takes Santa Rosa, south of Cabanatuan, without opposition.

 

In the US Eighth Army area, the 188^th Glider Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division, lands on the west coast of Luzon, in the Nasugbu area, after a naval gunfire bombardment. They take Nasugbu, Wawa, and Lian and drive inland toward Tagaytay Ridge, without opposition.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 20 B-24s, from Guam Island, to bomb airfields and anti-aircraft defenses on Iwo Jima Island.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches nine more B-24s, to fly single-bomber harassment strikes on Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Thursday, February 1, 1945

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 814 – 699 B-17s and 328 P-51s are dispatched to hit rail targets and bridges in western Germany using Micro-H and H2X radar.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 815 – During the night, nine B-24s are sent to drop leaflets in the Netherlands, France and Germany.

 

The RAF sends 160 Lancasters to attack the general town area of Mönchengladbach, using Gee-H, and one Halifax on a radio countermeasure sortie. One Lancaster crashes in France.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 382 Lancasters and 14 Mosquitos to Ludwigshafen, while 293 Halifaxes, 40 Lancasters, and eight Mosquitos attack Mainz and 271 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos hit Siegen. In other action, 122 Mosquitos are sent to Berlin, eight to the Bruckhausen benzol plant, six to Hannover, four to Nuremberg and four drop dummy target indicators at both Mannheim and Stuttgart. 64 other aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, and 47 Mosquito patrols. Nine Lancasters and one Mosquito are lost.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of 146 B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s to bomb rail bridges and defended areas on the Rhine and Mosel rivers and in western Germany near the battlefront.

 

The IX and XIX Tactical Air Commands escort the bombers, fly armed reconnaissance, and in Germany, attack the Euskirchen marshalling yard and the town of Arloff.

 

The US Ninth Army prepares for Operation GRENADE, a large-scale offensive across the Roer River.

 

In the XIX Corps area, the 78^th Division continues to mop up in the Imgenbroich–Kesternich sector.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 102^nd Cavalry Group, protecting the north flank and maintaining contact with the Ninth Army, relieves elements of the 9^th Division, in Rohren and Widdau. The 9^th, 99^th, and 2^nd Divisions, from north to south, continue their offensive for the dams on the Roer and Urft rivers. The 9^th Division drives eastward, taking the road junction on the Hofen–Harperscheid road, about half way through the Monschau Forest.

 

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 1^st Division, continuing its attack through the northern part of the Buchholz Forest, with the 26^th Infantry on the left and the 18^th Infantry on the right, drives east about 1,500 yards, against scattered resistance.

 

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps continues its attack to breach the West Wall, along the Schnee Eifel. On the north, the 347^th Infantry, of the 87^th Division, takes Manderfeld, Belgium, and Auw, Germany. The 4^th Division, in the center, advances almost four miles into Germany, to positions overlooking Bleialf. Urb and Muetzenich fall to the 8^th Infantry and Ihlren, Schweiler, and Winterscheid falls to the 12^th Infantry. The 90^th Division gets into blocking position on the southern flank of VIII Corps. A battalion of the 359^th Infantry, captures Gros Langenfeld, and the 358^th Infantry takes Heckuscheid.

 

XX Corps’ front is static, except for a limited-objective attack by the 94^th Division. Elements of the 1^st Battalion, of the 302^nd Infantry (94^th Division), clear half of the Campholz woods, southeast of Tettingen.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 36^th Division continues toward the Rhine River. The 2^nd Battalion, of Regimental Combat Team 142, crosses the Moder River and enters Oberhoffen, where indecisive fighting ensues. Combat Command B, of the 14^th Armored Division, is attached to the 36^th Division and makes a diversionary attack east of Oberhoffen, withdrawing at dusk. The 117^th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, attached to the 36^th Division, clears the Stainwald woods, north of Gambsheim.

 

The French 1^st Army continues operations against the Colmar Pocket.

 

French II Corps, against disorganized resistance, completes the task of clearing the Rhine Plain, from Erstein on the north to Artzenheim on the south, and overruns Artzenheim.

 

In the US XXI Corps area, the 3^rd Division’s 15^th and 30^th Regiments, with French armor in support, drive south along the Rhine–Rhône Canal, toward Neuf-Brisach, reaching positions just north of that town. The 75^th Division, with two regiments abreast, drives south toward Andolsheim from the sector formerly held by the 3^rd Division. The 28^th Division, on XXI Corps’ west flank, starts south, toward Colmar at 2100 hours.

 

French I Corps continues to clear the region south of the Thur River, between Cernay and Ensisheim. Both Cernay and Ensisheim remain in enemy hands.

 

Eastern Europe

The Red Army continues the reduction of the enemy within East Prussia.

 

In Poland, Soviet forces take the Torun communications center, on the Vistula River, by storm, and maintain pressure on encircled Posen.

 

In Germany, the Red Army invests Schneidemuehl, thrusts to Ratzebuhr, continues toward the middle Oder River and Berlin.

 

In Hungary, Soviet troops continue the elimination of the Budapest garrison.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 300 B-17s and B-24s to attack the Moosbierbaum oil refinery and the marshalling yards at Graz, Furstenfeld, and Klagenfurt, all in Austria. One bomber bombs Pula, Yugoslavia. P-38s and P-51s fly over 270 sorties escorting the bombers, while more other P-38s carry out reconnaissance and reconnaissance escort missions.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In Italy, bad weather curtails most 12^th Air Force operations. A-20s and medium bombers are grounded and fighters and fighter-bombers fly only 14 sorties, 12 against communications targets north of the battle area and two weather reconnaissance sorties.

 

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 33 – 113 B-29s are dispatched to hit the naval base at Singapore, in the Malayan States. 67 bomb the Admiralty IX Floating Drydock, and a vessel berthed in it, and 21bomb the West Wall area of the naval base. 21others hit alternate targets at Martaban, Burma, and George Town, in the Malayan States. They shoot down three Japanese aircraft. Two B-29s are lost.

 

China Theater

Six B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, attack shipping off the French Indochina coast, sinking one cargo vessel and damaging patrol boat. In China, four P-40s attack a division headquarters southwest of Yungning.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 28 fighter-bombers to support ground forces around Hosi and Molo, in Burma. Meanwhile, 12 B-25s knock out the Mong Pawn bridge, while eight P-47s damage the approach to the Pa-mao bridge, and eight others hit the Hsumhsai Airfield. A group of over 90 fighter-bombers hit troops, supplies, vehicles, a ferry crossing, and various targets of opportunity at several locations including Nauchye, Hsenwi, Man Pwe, Pongkalau, Nawng Mawn, Na-lang, Kunhkan, and Panghtu-Iin. 550 transport sorties are flown to forward areas.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the main body of the British 36^th Division starts crossing the Shweli River, in the Myitson region, under enemy fire.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound the Canacao Peninsula and Cavite areas. Targets include a shipyard, seaplane base, communications, and supply areas. B-25s hit Puerto Princesa, on Palawan Island, in the Philippine Islands. On Formosa, B-24s bomb the Okayama and Heito airfields and Toko seaplane base.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 1^st Cavalry and the 37^th Infantry Divisions drive quickly southward toward Manila. A Provisional Reconnaissance Squadron, of the 1^st Cavalry, reaches Gapan. Elements of the 5^th and 8^th Cavalry Regiments cross the Pampanga River, north and south of Cabanatuan, and clear most of that town. Motorized elements of the 8^th Cavalry reach Santa Rosa. The 37^th Division’s 148^th Infantry drives down Route 3, to the Labangan River. Some elements then advance east toward Plaridel, until stopped at the Plaridel Airfield, while others continue down Route 3. To the west, a 145^th Infantry column takes Hagonoy, without opposition.

 

In the I Corps area, the 6^th and 25^th Divisions attack east, to cut Highway 5 at San Jose. The 6^th Division commits the 1^st and 3^rd Battalions, of the 20^th Infantry, against Munoz, but is still unable to enter. The 27^th Infantry, of the 25^th Division, assisted by the 35^th Infantry, attacks toward Umingan and gets elements into the barrio. The 32^nd Division, blocking the enemy’s southward movement from the Cagayan Valley, gets elements to San Nicolas, the southwest entrance to the Villa Verde Trail, which joins Highway 5, at Santa Fe. On the north flank of I Corps, the 43^rd Division and Regimental Combat Team 158 consolidate on the hills and ridges commanding the Damortis–Rosario–Pozorrubio road.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 152^nd Infantry, of the 38^th Division, approaching the Japanese main line of resistance (main line of resistance (MLR)) at Zigzag Pass, gains less than 1,000 yards. The 149^th Infantry, following the trail, which bends sharply northward instead of paralleling Route 7, is about 4,000 yards north of Route 7.

 

In the US Eighth Army area, when the 188^th Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division meets delaying opposition in the defile between Mt. Cariliao and Mt. Batulao, short of the Tagaytay Ridge, a planned drop of the 511^th Parachute Infantry on the ridge is postponed until February 3. 5^th Air Force planes, from Mindoro, support the fighting.

 

Japanese aircraft have hit Morotai in 82 raids, during the period of September 12, 1944, to date.

 

Central Pacific Area

During the afternoon, the 7^th Air Force dispatches 21 B-24s, based on Saipan Island and Mariana Island, to attack Iwo Jima Island, in the Volcano Islands. 20 B-24s, from Angaur Island and Palau Island, in the Caroline Islands, bomb Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, Luzon Island, in the Philippine Islands.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 B-24s, flying individual snooper raids, to hit Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Friday, February 2, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Malta

The Malta Conference ends as US President Roosevelt arrives. During the meeting, they worked on the agenda for the next US- British Staff Conference, reviewed cargo shipping and the strategy in Northwestern Europe. At the comclusion, both leaders agree on the undesirability of the Red Army advancing into central Europe.

 

European Theater

During the night, the RAF dispatches 495 Lancasters and 12 Mosquitos to Wiesbaden. Meanwhile, 277 Halifaxes, 27 Lancasters, and 19 Mosquitos are sent to Wanne-Eickel, and 250 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos are sent to Karlsruhe.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 350 B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s to bomb road and rail bridges, to block east-west troop movement, east of the Rhine River, and defended localities east of the battlefront in western Germany.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 2nd Division’s 9^th Infantry takes Schoneseiffen and Harperscheid.

 

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 1^st and 82^nd Airborne Divisions, jumping off at 0400 hours, overrun pillboxes, dragon’s teeth, and other fortifications at the West Wall. Attacking through the 505^th Parachute Infantry, the 325^th Glider Infantry, of the 82^nd Airborne Division, breaches the West Wall and takes Udenbreth and Neuhof.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division gains their assigned objectives in attacks that continue during night. On the 87^th Division’s left, the 347^th Infantry takes Losheim, during the night. The 346^th Infantry attacks on the 87^th Division’s right, during the night, and secures Krewinkel, before dawn.

 

In the XII Corps area, Task Force Oboe, which includes elements of the 4^th Armored Division, clears Hosdorf, on the west bank of Our River, in a local attack.

 

In the XX Corps area, elements of the 1^st Battalion, of the 302^nd Infantry (94^th Division), continuing limited attacks, clear the rest of the Campholz woods.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 36^th Division continues a fight for Oberhoffen and attacks Rohrweiler. Helped by tanks and tank-destroyers, Regimental Combat Team 142 clears the southern and southeastern part of Oberhoffen. Elements of Regimental Combat Teams 143 and 142 wade the Moder River to make a coordinated attack on Rohrweiler. They capture the town and bridges to the southeast.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s US XXI Corps area, the 75^th Division overruns Andolsheim and moves southeast, toward Neuf-Brisach.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 11 B-25s to attack troops and supplies at Loilem, Burma. Meanwhile, over 60 fighter-bombers support ground forces. Transports complete 485 sorties to forward bases and over the frontline areas.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the Japanese force the British 36^th Division to withdraw its small bridgehead across the Shweli River. The 124^th Cavalry, of the US 5332^nd Brigade, takes the heights in the Hpa-pen area, in a sharp battle. The 88^th Regiment, of the Chinese 30^th Division, gives little assistance.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s continue to pound Corregidor Island and Cavite, and A-20s hit the Baler Bay area. In the Cagayan Valley, on Mindanao Island, in the Philippine Islands, B-25s attack pillboxes, gun positions, and river barges. B-24s hit the Okayama Airfield, on Formosa, during a dawn raid.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, one column of the 148^th Infantry (37^th Division), takes Plaridel, while another reaches Bocaue and patrols toward Marilao. The 129^th Infantry, of the 37^th Division, completes its tasks in the Ft. Stotsenburg area and prepares to join in the 37^th Division’s drive on Manila.

 

I Corps has advanced sufficiently, by this time, to insure the safety of XIV Corps from enemy counterattacks from the east. The 63^rd Infantry cuts Highway 5, northeast of Munoz, and the 1^st Infantry seizes the bridge crossing along the Rizal–San Jose road.

 

On Leyte, in the XXIV Corps area, the 77^th Division concludes combat operations on the island.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 20 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to attack a storage area on Iwo Jima Island. Four P-47s, on a reconnaissance flight, strafe buildings on Pagan Island, in the Mariana Islands. 22 B-24s, from Angaur Island, bomb Corregidor Island.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches 10 B-24s, flying individual harassment raids, to bomb the Iwo Jima airfields.

[dschneck]

Saturday, February 3, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 817 – 1,437 bombers and 948 fighters are dispatched in a major strike on Berlin by B-17s, while B-24s hit the synthetic oil industry at Magdeburg

 

The RAF attacks targets believed to be sheltering midget submarines, sending 36 Lancasters to hit the U-boat pens at Ijmuiden and Poortershaven.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 192 Lancasters and 18 Mosquitos to attack the Prosper benzol plant at Bottrop, and 149 Lancasters to hit the Hansa benzol plant at Dortmund.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends its bombers to attacks the Berg-Gladbach storage and repair depot, Dahlem communications center, rail bridges at Ahrweiler and Sinzig, and the marshalling yard at Junkerath.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 1^st Battalion, of the 311^th Infantry (78^th Division), swims the flooded Roer River, at Dedenborn, and captures that town. Jumping off before dawn, the 9^th Division’s 90^th Infantry overcomes house-to-house resistance in Dreiborn and seizes Herhahn, while the 47^th Infantry clears Einruhr. The 2^nd Division continues toward Schleiden, as the 9^th Infantry takes Berescheid and Ettelscheid, and the 23^rd Infantry captures Bronsfeld.

 

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 1^st Division continues to battle West Wall obstacles and slightly improves positions northwest of Ramscheid, and patrols find Ramscheid free of enemy. The 82^nd Airborne Division withstands strong counterattacks and consolidates.

 

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps is directed to attack southeast to the Pruem River. The 8th Infantry, of the 4^th Division, clears Halenfeld and Buchet. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 12^th Infantry, completes the capture of Bleialf.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 142, of the 36^th Division, continues to clear Oberhoffen. Regimental Combat Team 143, reinforced by a battalion of the 142^nd Infantry, seizes the Drusenheim woods, but is unable to retain much of it. South of the Moder River, Regimental Combat Team 143 takes two bridges and a road junction, but is later forced to withdraw. Regimental Combat Team 141 attacks north, from Stainwald, across flooded terrain to the southern outskirts of Herrlisheim, but is forced back by a counterattack.

 

In the French 1^st Army’s US XXI Corps area, the 3^rd and 75^th Divisions continue toward Neuf-Brisach. The 7^th Infantry, of the 3^rd Division, clears Biesheim, against vigorous opposition. The 75^th Division makes slow progress in the Forêt Domaniale. The 12^th Armored Division attacks through the 28^th Division at Colmar. Combat Command B seizes bridgeheads across the Ill River, in the vicinity of Sundhoffen and Ste Croix en Plaine. Combat Command R drives south, astride the Colmar–Rouffach road. The 28^th Division, upon completing the mop-up of Colmar, joins French armor in blocking along the Vosges Mountains, in the region west and south of Colmar.

 

French I Corps finishes the first phase of its mission against the Colmar Pocket, clearing the southern bank of Thur River, between Cernay and Ensisheim.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-25s to attack troops and supplies at Loilem, Burma, and 27 fighter-bombers to support ground forces. Transports complete 531 sorties, landing men and supplies at advanced bases and dropping supplies to forward troops.

 

In Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the 475^th Infantry, of the US 5332^nd Brigade, attacks to clear the rest of Loi-kang ridge and makes substantial progress.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s again pound Corregidor Island and the Canacao peninsula, on Luzon. On Mindanao Island, B-25s and P-38s hit the Matina, Daliao, and Padada airfields.

 

In the US Eighth Army area, the 511^th Parachute Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division, is dropped along Tagaytay Ridge. Drops are widely scattered, but paratroopers are unopposed and make contact with the 188^th Infantry, at the west end of the ridge, and the seize road junction at the east end. With the ridge secured, plans are made to employ the 511^th Infantry in a northward advance on Manila.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches nine B-24s, from Saipan Island, to hit Chichi Jima Island, in the Bonin Islands, and 10 more B-24s to hit Iwo Jima Island.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends, nine B-24s, flying single bomber harassment strikes, to bomb Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Sunday, February 4, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

During the night, the RAF dispatches 202 Halifaxes, 20 Lancasters, and 16 Mosquitos to Bonn., and 100 Halifaxes, 12 Mosquitos, and 11 Lancasters to attack a benzol plant at Osterfeld.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

Ion the 12^th Army Group’s V Corps area, the 311^th Infantry, of the 78^th Division, takes Ruhrberg and the high ground around it. This is preliminary to the main assault through West Wall fortifications, for approaches to the Schwammenauel Dam. On the 9^th Division left, the 47^th Infantry seizes Wollseifen and reaches Urft Lake, where the end of Dam 5 is secured. The 39^th Infantry, on the right, repels a counterattack against Herhahn and pushes toward Gemund, taking Morsbach. Elements of the 9^th Infantry, of the 2^nd Division, make a limited attack to the high ground between Ettelscheid and Scheuren.

 

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 1^st Division continues their assault on the West Wall. The 26^th Infantry takes Hollerath.

 

In the US Third Army area, while units on VIII Corps’ flanks consolidate and regroup, the 4^th Division, attacking with the 8^th Infantry, on the north, and the 22^nd Infantry, on the south, breaches the outer defenses of the West Wall, along the Schnee Eifel ridge, northeast of Brandscheid.

 

In the French 1st Army’s US XXI Corps area, the 3^rd and 75^th Divisions improve their positions near Neuf-Brisach, with the 3^rd Division in the region between the Rhine River and the Rhine–Rhône Canal and 75^th Division between the Rhine–Rhône Canal and the Ill River. Combat Command A captures Hattstatt, on the Colmar–Rouffach road, but Combat Command R meets strong opposition northeast of there and is unable to progress. The 28^th Division, assisted by the French 10^th Division, blocks along the Fecht River, on XXI Corps western flank.

 

French I Corps attacks north across the flooded Thur River, toward XXI Corps, and makes rapid progress. The 4^th Moroccan Mountain Division, in the lead, overruns Guebwiller, on the road to Rouffach, and reaches the southern edge of Rouffach, after nightfall. On the Thur River line, Cernay is found to be free of enemy and preparations are made for an assault on Ensisheim.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack railroad bridges and a marshalling yard.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 92^nd Division begins a limited attack to improve their positions in the Serchio Valley, employing the 366^th Infantry, west of the river, and the 365^th Infantry, on the east side. The attack recovers Gallicano, Castelvecchio, and Albiano from the enemy, with ease.

 

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 10 P-40s to bomb the airfield and Japanese headquarters at Yungning and railroad yards at Sinyang, all in China.

 

On the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) front, the 475^th Infantry, of the US 5332^nd Brigade, finishes clearing the Loi-kang ridge, from which most Japanese have withdrawn.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 54 P-38s and P-47s, from the 10^th Air Force, destroy or damage bridges, while 26 P-47s support ground forces . Again transports complete over 500 sorties to advanced bases and over forward areas, where supplies are dropped to troops.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s continue to hit Corregidor Island and Cavite. In support of ground forces, B-25s bomb and strafe coast targets from San Felipe to Maloma, hit targets around lba, and drop napalm on San Jose del Monte. A-20s bomb the Lipa and Calingatan airfields.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 1^st Infantry, of the 6^th Division, assisted by aircraft, seizes the San Jose— Highway 5 gateway to the Cagayan Valley, and blocks the approaches. Attacking from the north and south, the 35^th Infantry, of the 25^th Division, reaches the edge of Lupao, where the enemy continues to hold out. Japanese forces on northern and southern Luzon are separated, as elements of the 161^st Infantry reach San Isidro.

 

The US Eighth Army begins a drive on Manila from the south. The 511^th Parachute Infantry, motorized, of the 11^th Airborne Division, moves along Route 17 and then Route 1, to Paranaque, four miles from the city, where it encounters the main enemy defenses, south of the city.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches nine B-24s, from Guam Island, to bomb anti-aircraft defenses on Iwo Jima Island, while 10 hit the town of Okimura, on Haha Jima Island, in the Bonin Islands.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 26 – For the first time, the XXI Bomber Command sends B-29s from two wings, the 73^rd Bomb Wing (Very Heavy) and the 313^th Bomb Wing (Very Heavy), against the Japanese home islands. 110 B-29s are dispatched. 69 bomb the urban area of Kobe, 30 others, including 15 hitting Natsusaka, bomb last resort targets and targets of opportunity. About 200 attacking fighters down one B-29 and damage 35 others. One other crashes upon landing at Saipan Island. The B-29s shoot down four Japanese aircraft.

[dschneck]

Monday, February 5, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 78^th Division opens a drive for the Schwammenauel Dam at 0300 hours. The 39^th Infantry, of the 9^th Division, mops up toward the Olef River and Gemund. The 9^th Infantry, of the 2^nd Division, gets Company A into Scheuren, while the 38^th Infantry, committed at 0300 hours, passes through the 23^rd Infantry and gains a weak hold on Hellenthal.

 

In XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 1^st Division clears toward the banks of the Clef and the Prether rivers, from Blumenthal, southward, until they are relieved during the night by the 99^th Division.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 22^nd Infantry, of the 4^th Division, takes the stubbornly defended crossroads in the Schnee Eifel, northeast of Brandscheid, and from there sends a column southwest, into Brandscheid, where strong opposition is overcome. Another column moves east from the crossroads and clears the high ground overlooking Sellerich. The 8^th Infantry attacks northeast along the Schnee Eifel ridge and secures the crossroads in the Schlausen Bacher Wald. Farther northeast, on the Schnee Eifel ridge, some elements of the 87^th Division take the crossroads southeast of Kobscheid, while others clear a portion of the Losheim–Pruem road, near Krewinkel.

 

In the French 1^st Army area, the Colmar Pocket is cut in two, as the US XXI and French I Corps make a firm junction. Enemy remnants west of the Ill River are isolated and offer only sporadic resistance.

 

In the US XXI Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 12^th Armored Division, jumping off early in morning, drives quickly south, from Hattstatt, and enters Rouffach, at 0512 hours. Shortly afterward, they make contact with the 4^th Moroccan Mountain Division, of French I Corps, which had arrived at the south edge of town earlier. Combat Command R clears Herrlisheim–près–Colmar, northeast of Hattstatt, and is relieved there by the 28^th Division. On the west flank of XXI Corps, the 28^th Division improves its positions along the Ill River, south of Colmar, and along the Fecht River, west of Colmar. The 75^th Division makes important gains in the region between the Ill River and the Rhine–Rhône Canal, overrunning Appenwihr, Hettenschlag, and Wolfgantzen. The 9^th Colonial Division opens an assault on Ensisheim and at 2230 hours enters the city.

 

Eastern Europe
Red Army troops in Prussia reach the middle Oder River, on a broad front within about 30 miles of Berlin, and outflank the fortified cities of Kuestrin and Frankfurt. Fighting continues within the beleaguered cities of Posen and Budapest.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 730 B-17s and B-24s to bomb targets in Germany and Austria.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s score excellently against the San Ambrogio di Valpolicella landslide. As a result of the bombing, the overhanging cliff collapses on the railroad and bridges at San Michele all' Adige and Calliano.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 92^nd Division’s 366^th Infantry takes Calomini, without difficulty, but is held up by resistance on the slopes of Monte Faeto. Across the Serchio River, the 365^th Infantry drives beyond the village of Lama, to the slopes of the Lama di Sotto ridge, commanding Castelnuovo, where it encounters violent opposition. Indecisive fighting on these heights, astride the Serchio River, continues for next few days.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

Transports fly 554 sorties to forward areas.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, 60 B-24s, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF), deliver the heaviest attack yet on Corregidor Island. Support for ground forces continues in various Luzon battle zones. B-25s, on a shipping sweep of the east coast, destroy nine barges and luggers and damage several more. B-24s bomb the Manggar and Sepinggang airfields, on Borneo.

 

In the XIV Corps area, additional elements of the 37^th Division and the 1^st Cavalry Division move into Manila, where responsibility for clearing the northern part of the city is divided between the two divisions. Both push south toward the Pasig River line, where Japanese demolitions cause huge fires.

 

In the I Corps area, the 20^th Infantry, of the 6^th Division, makes very little headway at Munoz, as the 1^st Infantry takes Rizal. Lupao remains under attack by the 35^th Infantry, of the 25^th Division.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 38^th Division continues costly fighting for Zigzag Pass.

 

In the US Eighth Army area, the 511^th Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division, progresses slowly northward, toward Manila, crossing a damaged Paranaque bridge and driving along Route 1.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 21 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to bomb anti-aircraft positions, defense installations, and a bivouac on the north end of Iwo Jima Island.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches 10 B-24s, from Saipan, on individual snooper strikes, to bomb Iwo Jima airfields.

 

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force sends five B-24s to bomb Kataoka, on Shimushu Island, in the Kurile Islands, through solid overcast. A shipping sweep by B-25s is cancelled due to bad weather.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, February 6, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 821 – 1,383 bombers and 904 fighters are dispatched to attack oil targets in Germany.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of 261 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s to attack the Rheinbach ammunition dump, the Sotenich communications center, the defended village of Vlatten, the Berg-Gladbach motor transport center, and several casual targets.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 78^th Division’s 310^th Infantry, reinforced by a battalion of the 309^th Infantry and tanks, attacks before dawn toward the Schmidt– Harscheid–Kommerscheidt region, but meets stiff opposition, and gains less than 1,000 yards. Hechelscheid falls to the 2^nd Battalion, of the 311^th Infantry. Scheuren falls to the 1^st Battalion, of the 9^th Infantry (2^nd Division), and Hellenthal falls to the 38^th Infantry.

 

In the US Third Army area, German resistance to VIII Corps’ assault on the West Wall stiffens. In local attacks, the 87^th Division takes the road junction on the Losheim–Pruem road, near Roth, but is unable to gain the crossroads in the Schnee Eifel, east of Kobscheid. The 8^th Infantry, of the 4^th Division, in conjunction with southern flank elements of the 87^th Division, continues to clear the Schnee Eifel ridge. Relief of the 3^rd Battalion, of the 22^nd Infantry (4^th Division), in Brandscheid, by the 1^st Battalion, of the 358^th Infantry (90^th Division), is interrupted by a determined enemy counterattack, toward that town, but the attack is repulsed after some hours of fighting. Other elements of the 22^nd Infantry attack at noon and seize Hontheim, Sellerich, and Herscheid. The 90^th Infantry and the 11^th Armored Division open a coordinated attack southeast, through West Wall defenses, before dawn, surprising the enemy and quickly gaining their immediate objectives. The 359^th Infantry, of the 90^th Division, takes Habscheid by daybreak, but is then delayed by opposition around the town. Combat Command R, of the 11^th Armored Division, advances about two miles through West Wall fortifications, to seize Hill 568, south of Habscheid. Patrols enter Lutzkampen, Grosskampenberg, and Berg, but are only able to remain in Berg.

 

The French 1^st Army begins the final phase of operations against the Colmar Pocket. US XXI Corps completes a southward movement and turns east toward the Rhine River. The 3^rd Division finishes clearing its zone along the Rhine River, on the north flank of XXI Corps, and seizes Neuf-Brisach. Elements of the 30^th Infantry are led by a civilian into Neuf-Brisach and easily clear the fortress city of the few remaining enemy. Elements of the French 2^nd Armored Division pass through the 3^rd Division and drive south, between the Rhine–Rhône Canal and the Rhine River, toward French I Corps, clearing Oberaasheim. Pivoting southeast about the 3^rd Division, the 75^th Division reaches the Rhine–Rhône Canal line, south of Neuf-Brisach, and sends elements forward to relieve the French, at Oberaasheim. The 28^th Division, having passed through the 12^th Armored Division, drives east to the Rhine–Rhône Canal, on the south flank of XXI Corps. The 12^th Armored Division provides fire support for the 28^th Division, blocks the exits from the Vosges, and eliminates isolated pockets of enemy. The French 5^th Armored Division, now in reserve near Colmar, helps clear Vosges pockets.

 

In the French I Corps area, the 1^st Armored Division, disposed along the Ill River, from Oberentzen to Reguisheim, on I Corps’ eastern flank, pauses to await bridging and is passed through by the infantry. The 2^nd Moroccan Infantry Division crosses the Ill River, in the Meyenheim–Reguisheim area, and drives east to the Rhine–Rhône Canal, capturing Hirtzfelden. The 9^th Colonial Infantry Division completes the capture of Ensisheim, by dawn, and attacks east from there on I Corps’ southern flank, reaching the edge of the Harth woods, as elements, just north of Mulhouse, drive north from Modenheim to Baldersheim. On the west flank of I Corps, the 4^th Moroccan Mountain Division blocks Vosges exits. Organized resistance in the Vosges ceases.

 

Eastern Europe

Troops of First Ukrainian Front, after seizing the bridgeheads north and south of Brieg, link up west of the river, encircling Brieg, which is then taken by assault. Among other towns secured are Ohlau, Grottkau, and Lowen. The Russians continue to destroy German pockets in East Prussia and in the cities of Posen and Budapest.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb gun positions on Corregidor Island. Meanwhile, B-25s and P-38s hit Echague and a camp on the Rosario-Baguio road. A-20s attack gun positions and defenses at Nichols Field, in support of ground forces, and bomb Caballo Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 37^th Division and the 1^st Cavalry Division have cleared most of Manila, north of the Pasig River. The 160^th Infantry, with tank and air support, secures a foothold on McSevney Point, the west nose of Storm King Mountain.

 

In the I Corps area, the Japanese continue a stubborn defense of Munoz, target of very heavy artillery concentration, and Lupao. The enemy withdrawal routes from Munoz are cut.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 149^th Infantry, of the 38^th Division, starts west, toward Zigzag Pass, where enemy positions are worked over thoroughly by aircraft, now based on San Marcelino airstrip, and by artillery. The 152^nd Infantry continues eastward and penetrates the enemy line late in day.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches nine B-24s, based on Guam Island, to attack anti-aircraft defenses and radar and radio installations on Iwo Jima Island. On Luzon Island, two B-24s hit the Bulan Airfield and 19 more bomb Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends eight B-24s, from Guam Island, to fly individual strikes against Iwo Jima airfields.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, February 7, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

During the night, the RAF dispatches 292 Halifaxes, 156 Lancasters, and 16 Mosquitos to Goch, and 295 Lancasters and 10 Mosquitos to Kleve. Meanwhile, 177 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos attack the Dortmund-Ems Canal section, near Ladbergen, with delayed-action bombs.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 78^th Division renews its attack, with three regiments abreast, after a thirty-minute artillery preparation. Combat Command R, of the 7^th Armored Division, mops-up bypassed pockets to the rear of the 78^th Division.

 

In the US Third Army’s area, the enemy strongly resists efforts of VIII Corps to deepen penetrations of the West Wall. The 87^th Division, employing the 345^th and 346^th Regiments, takes the crossroads east of Habscheid, in the Schnee Eifel, and clears the Losheim–Pruem road, northward from there. The 4^th Division drives southeast, toward Pruem. The 90^th Division commits its full strength against the main West Wall defenses around Habscheid, methodically eliminating numerous pillboxes, under heavy fire. Hollnich falls to the 359^th Infantry.

 

In the III Corps area, assault elements of the 6^th Armored and the 17^th Airborne Divisions finish crossing the Our River and the German border, during the morning. The Enemy puts up strong resistance after recovering from the surprise. The 6^th Armored Division constructs bridges and moves additional forces across the river during the day.

 

XII Corps attacks across the Our and Sauer rivers, between Vianden and Echternach, with the 5^th Division starting 0100 hours and the 80^th Division at 0300 hours. Though artillery support is strong, the swift current of the river and heavy fire from the West Wall limit the numbers crossing and prevent bridging. The 319^th Infantry takes Wallendorf, after nightfall. To the southeast, the 5th Division, with elements of three regiments abreast, attacks across the Sauer River, near Weiterbach and Echternach. With great difficulty, a few troops of the 2^nd Battalion, of the 10^th Infantry, on the north, and of the 2^nd and 3^rd Battalions, of the 11^th Infantry, in the center, succeed in crossing. The attached 417^th Infantry, of the 76^th Division, gets 2½ companies of the 1^st Battalion across the river on the south.

 

In the XX Corps area, the 94^th Division, attacking with three battalions of the 301^st Infantry, clears Sinz, except for one house, and the high ground northwest of the town. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 302^nd Infantry, attacks an enemy pocket, between the Campholz woods and Tettingen, which has withstood pressure of the 1^st Battalion, of the 302^nd Infantry, earlier in month, and takes four pillboxes.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, in the 36^th Division sector, the 68^th Armored Infantry Battalion fights in northwestern Oberhoffen, until relieved by the 1^st Battalion, of the 142^nd Infantry.

 

In the French 1^st Army area, US XXI Corps closes along the Rhine River, from Balgau, northward. Continuing south, between the Rhine–Rhône Canal and the Rhine River, the French 2^nd Armored Division seizes Heiteren and Balgau, and pushes toward Fessenheim.

 

In the French I Corps area, the 1^st Armored Division crosses the Ill River, over a bridge constructed at Ensisheim, and overtakes the infantry along the Rhine–Rhône Canal.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of 680 B-17s and B-24s, escorted by a group of 274 P-38s and P-51s, to bomb targets in Austria, Yugoslavia, Italy and Czechoslovakia.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s cut bridges at Bodrez and Lavis, a viaduct at Lavis, and block rail lines at San Michele all'Adige and Mantua.

 

XXII Tactical Air Command P-47s destroy four railroad bridges and severely damage another in the northeaster and central Po River Valley and the Brenner Pass, and blast dumps and sugar refineries in the Mantua, Brescia, and Reggio Emilia areas.

 

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 34 – 67 B-29s are dispatched to hit Saigon, French Indochina. 44 bomb the primary target, although 11 of those drop prematurely, 19 hit Pnom Penh, a target of opportunity, and two bomb the last resort target, the marshalling yard at Martaban, Burma. One B-29 and its crew are lost.

 

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 35 – 64 B-29s are dispatched to hit the Rama VI bridge, at Bangkok, Thailand, for the third time. 58 hit the bomb and effect the collapse of most of middle span, and destroy the northeaster approach. One B-29 bombs the Martaban, Burma, marshalling yard.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, with P-38 support, hit targets of opportunity at the Heito Airfield and other points, after weather prevents the bombing of Takao, and B-25s, with P-51s covering, fly several sweeps, sinking a submarine and a large motor launch, setting a tanker afire, damaging other shipping and several vehicles, and destroying an airplane.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 37^th Division extends east, to take responsibility for most of Manila, north of the Pasig River, thus releasing the 5^th and 8^th Cavalry Regiments. The 185^th Infantry, on the northern flank of the 40^th Division, begins an attack toward Snake Hill North, in the region west of Storm King Mountain.

 

In the I Corps area, the battle for Munoz ends victoriously for the 20^th Infantry, of the 6^th Division. Japanese columns, attempting to escape, are virtually wiped out. In Lupao, the enemy continues to hold out against the 35^th Infantry, of the 25^th Division.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 151^st and 152^nd Regiments, of the 38^th Division, are slowly and methodically reducing enemy strongpoints along Highway 7, on the west.

 

In the US Eighth Army area, the 11^th Airborne Division, with artillery and air support, begins a drive on Nichols Field.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches six B-24s, from Saipan Island, to bomb the town of Okimura, on Haha Jima Island. Eight other B-24s hit anti-aircraft positions and radio and radar installations on Iwo Jima Island, while two others bomb the airfield in Woleai Atoll, in the Caroline Islands. From Angaur Island, 20 B-24s bomb the Silay and Talisay airfields, on Negros Island, and one bombs the Opon Airfield, on Mactan Island, in the Philippine Islands.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends nine B-24s on snooper raids, from Saipan Island, to bomb Iwo Jima airfields.

[dschneck]

Thursday, February 8, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

The RAF sends 15 Lancasters to drop Tallboys on the U-boat pens at Ijmuiden, and one other aircraft to fly a radio countermeasure sortie.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 475 Lancasters and seven Mosquitos, in two waves, to Politz.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 320 B-26s, A-20s, and A-26s to attack a road junction, marshalling yard, three defended areas, and 10 casual targets in Germany.

 

The Canadian First Army, employing British XXX Corps, begins Operation VERITABLE, to clear the region between the Maas and Rhine rivers, at 1030 hours, after effective artillery preparation. They meet light resistance, except on the right, but are hampered by mines and flooded terrain. The Canadian 2^nd Division accomplishes its mission, overrunning Wyler in lively fighting. The British 15^th Division seizes Kranburg. The British 53^rd and 51^st Divisions clear the heights northwest and southwest of the Reichswald, respectively. In the extreme north, the Canadian 3^rd Division opens an amphibious attack over flooded terrain, at 1800 hours, and easily clears Zyfflich and Zandpol.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 78^th Division renews its assault on Schmidt, before dawn. The 3^rd Battalion, of the 310^th Infantry, passing through the 311^th Infantry, overcomes determined resistance in eastern part of town. The 1^st Battalion relieves pressure on the 3^rd Battalion by clearing the high ground southeast of Harscheid. The 311^th Infantry’s 3^rd Battalion easily secures Harscheid, while rest of the regiment clears the region between Schmidt and Urft Lake.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 345th Infantry, of the 87^th Division, in a two-pronged attack, seizes Olzheim and the high ground to the south and east. The 4^th Division arouses even greater resistance, as it presses toward Pruem, but the 8^th Infantry takes a large part of Gondenbrett, and the 22^nd Infantry clears Ober Mehlen. The 90^th Division continues to batter the main fortifications, largely pillboxes, of the West Wall.

 

In the XX Corps area, the 301^st Infantry, of the 94^th Division, completes the capture of Sinz and takes several pillboxes to the southeast. Elements of the 302^nd Infantry clear the last two pillboxes, between the Campholz woods and Tettingen.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, elements of the 276^th Infantry, of the 70^th Division, are forced from their outpost line of resistance (OPLR) by enemy fire.

 

In the French 1^st Army area, US XXI Corps completes its offensive as the French 2^nd Armored Division reaches Fessenheim and finds the 1^st Armored Division, of French I Corps already there. Units then mop up.

 

In the I Corps area, the 1^st Armored Division, after driving east from the Rhine–Rhône Canal to Fessenheim, and clearing that village, moves south along the Rhine River, toward Chalampé, capturing Blodelsheim. Meanwhile, to the south, other elements of I Corps clear the Harth forest and reach the Rhine River, near Hombourg and Petit Landau. The small enemy bridgehead west of the Rhine River now contains only four villages: Rumersheim, Bantzenheim, Chalampé, and Ottmarsheim.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 500 B-24s and B-17s bomb southeastern Vienna communications targets and the marshalling yard at Graz.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack bridges at Calliano, Chiusaforte, Dogna and Piacenza.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 92^nd Division, continues its fruitless struggle for the heights on either side of the Serchio River.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 72 P-47s, from the 10^th Air Force, support ground forces in the Myitson area, while a group of 37 P-47s and P-38s hit troops, supply areas, ammunition dumps, and targets of opportunity. Transports fly 581sorties carrying men and supplies to forward bases and dropping supplies to frontline areas.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, 26^th Brigade, of the British 36^th Division, establishes a bridgehead across the Shweli River, near Myitson, and holds it against enemy fire.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the town of Mariveles, the on Bataan Peninsula.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, while 1^st Cavalry Division forces are the clearing eastern suburbs of Manila, the 37^th Division expands and strengthens its bridgehead, south of the Pasig River, crossing the 1^st and 2^nd Battalions, of the 129^th Infantry, into it. The 160^th Infantry gains most of McSevney Point and holds its positions against a series of counterattacks. The 108^th Infantry attacks west, from Top of the World, toward a series of hills about 1,500 to 2,000 yards away, taking Hill 5.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 38^th Division continues a two-pronged attack against Zigzag Pass, but is still stubbornly opposed. The 149^th Infantry is running into strong opposition.

 

In the US Eighth Army area, the 511^th and 188^th Regiments, of the 11^th Airborne Division, make slow progress against Nichols Field and gain contact near the southwest corner.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 20 B-24s, from Guam Island, to bomb radar and radio installations and anti-aircraft defenses on Iwo Jima Island, in the afternoon.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 B-24s to fly single-plane snooper strikes against Iwo Jima's airfields.

[dschneck]

Friday, February 9, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 824 – 1,296 bombers and 871 fighters, in six forces hit oil targets in Germany, mostly uss PFF methods.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of 347 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to bomb communications centers at Viersen and Kempen, marshalling yards at Rheydt, Grevenbroich, and Viersen, and rail bridges at Neuwied-Irlich and Sinzig.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s British XXX Corps area, the Canadian 3^rd Division clears Mehr, Niel, Keeken, and Milligen, and patrols to the Rhine River. The 15^th Division overruns West Wall defenses, at Nuetterden, and reaches the heights near Materborn, and patrols to the outskirts of Cleve. Moving east through the northern part of the Reichswald, the 53^rd Division clears the Stuppelburg feature and the high ground southwest of Materborn.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 9^th Division, passing through the 78^th Division, and assisted by it, makes a final drive on the Schwammenauel Dam. To protect the north flank of the 9^th Division, the 78^th Division’s 310^th Infantry, reinforced by a battalion of the 311^th Infantry, clears the region north of the Schmidt– Hasenfelde road and blocks the Harscheid–Nideggen road. The 9^th Division’s 90^th Infantry clears to the Roer River, within its zone, and secures most of Hasenfelde. The 311^th Infantry, drives southeast and clears the north bank of Urft Lake, to within a few hundred yards of Schwammenauel Dam. The 311^th Infantry is then passed through by the 309^th Infantry, elements of which reach the north end of the dam and capture the control house.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 345^th Infantry (87^th Division), captures Neuendorf. On the 4^th Division’s northern flank, the 8^th Infantry completes the capture of Gondenbrett, clears Hermespand, and crosses elements over the Pruem River. The 22^nd Infantry seizes Nieder Mehlen, and the 12^th Infantry partly clears Steinmehlen. The 90^th Division makes substantial progress through West Wall fortifications.

 

The French 1^st Army completes the reduction of the Colmar Pocket, leaving the German 19^th Army virtually destroyed as an effective fighting force.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In the British Eighth Army area, Canadian I Corps begins Operation GOLDFLAKE, a movement from Italy to the European Theater, where it will join the Canadian First Army.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s fly morning and afternoon raids against Corregidor Island gun positions. A-20s also hit the island fortress. Mariveles and the southern part of the Bataan Peninsula are pounded by B-24s and A-20s throughout the morning and afternoon. B-25s and P-51s hit shipping near Legaspi and in San Miguel Bay, and destroy buildings at San Fernando, on Negros Island. In support of ground forces, A-24s and P-40s, over the Balete Pass area, attack bridges and roads.

 

In the XIV Corps area, 37^th Division units, fighting south of the Pasig River, in Manila, make very small gains against tenacious resistance. 1^st Cavalry Division forces, clearing the eastern suburbs, reach the Pasig River and begin crossing. The 108^th Infantry takes Hills 3 and 4, and pushes toward Hill 6.

 

In the I Corps area, after repelling a predawn counterattack, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 127^th Infantry (32^nd Division), continues their attack to clear the Villa Verde Trail, but is soon checked by enemy fire.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 38^th Division continues to eliminate enemy positions in the Zigzag.

 

In the US Eighth Army area, the 11^th Airborne is meeting intense opposition at Nichols Field.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 22 B-24s, from Guam and Saipan islands, to bomb airfields, defense and radar-radio installations and anti-aircraft positions on Iwo Jima Island.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 28 – 29 B-29s hit Moen Island for the second consecutive day, bombing Airfield No. 2.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 11 more B-24s, from Saipan, on separate strikes against airfields and anti-aircraft defenses on Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Saturday, February 10, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 825 – 164 B-17s, escorted by 106 P-51s, are sent to targets in the Netherlands and Germany.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches over 320 bombers to attack communications centers at Kempen, Horrem, and Euskirchen, a vehicle center and depot at Munstereifel and at Berg-Gladbach, and several casual targets, including the rail bridge at Bullay.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, the 15^th Division partly clears Cleve, against strong resistance. The 51^st Division closes in on Hekkens and, during the night, crosses elements over the flooded Niers River, north of Gennep.

 

In the US Ninth Army area, the Germans have destroyed the outlets to the Roer River dams, in the First Army zone to the south, flooding the proposed crossing sites of the Ninth Army and forcing postponement of its attack across the Roer River.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 12^th Infantry completes the capture of Steinmehlen and gets a battalion to the Pruem River line, across from Nieder Pruem. The 359^th Infantry clears the last three pillboxes on the 90^th Division’s right flank. Combat Command R, of the 11^th Armored Division, resumes their attack, reducing a number of bunkers and pillboxes, south and southeast of Hill 568.

 

In the XII Corps area, elements of the 318^th Infantry clear Biesdorf, after nightfall. The 5^th Division crosses the rest of the 10^th and 11^th Regiments and, with these, expands the Weiterbach–Echternach bridgehead into the West Wall.

 

In the XX Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 376^th Infantry, attacks into the Bannholz woods, after heavy artillery preparation, but is driven out.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, two battalions of Regimental Combat Team 142, of the 36^th Division, continue heavy fighting in Oberhoffen. Regimental Combat Team 143 attacks Drusenheim, but is forced to withdraw.

 

Eastern Europe

In East Prussia, the important port of Elbing falls to the Second White Russian front and the communications center of Preussisch Eylau falls to the Third White Russian front.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, Myitson falls to the British 36^th Division.

 

In the British Fourteenth Army’s IV Corps area, the East African 28^th Brigade takes Seikpyu.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s again blast Japanese gun positions, while P-51s and P-38s, supporting ground forces hit communications targets in the Bayambang-Santa Fe area. Meanwhile B-25s in the area blast villages, where vehicles are hidden. B-24s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers completely saturate the southern part of the Bataan Peninsula with bombs during morning and afternoon attacks, thoroughly pummeling defenses and forces. P-47s, on a fighter sweep over Formosa, shoot down 10 enemy aircraft.

 

On Luzon, in the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, opposition in southern Manila is so stubborn, and losses to the 37^th Division are so great, that it is decided to increase the volume of the artillery bombardment.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 10 B-24s , based on Guam Island, to bomb Okimura, on Haha Jima Island. Six P-38s escort a photo mission and fly a fighter sweep over Iwo Jima Island. 17 B-24s, from Guam, with P-38 escort, pound Iwo Jima in the late afternoon.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 29 – 118 B-29s, from the Mariana Islands, are dispatched to hit the Nakajima aircraft plant at Ota, Japan. 84 hit the primary target and 14 hit other targets. They shoot down 21 Japanese aircraft. 12 B-29s and their crews are lost.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends nine B-24s on single bomber harassment strikes over Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Sunday, February 11, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the Canadian First Army area, British XXX Corps continues to advance, despite increasingly strong resistance and flooded terrain. The 15^th Division completes the capture of Cleve. The 43^rd Division maintains its positions southwest of Cleve and takes Materborn and Hau. The 53^rd Division continues to clear the Reichswald Forest. The 51^st Division takes the important road centers of Hekkens and Gennep.

 

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps goes on the defensive and shifts its boundaries. The 3^rd Battalion, of the 22^nd Infantry, enters Pruem and starts a systematic search for the enemy within the town. The 90^th Division begins limited objective attacks long before dawn, with the 3^rd Battalion, of the 357^th Infantry, advancing to a line north of Masthorn. The 358^th Infantry, after futile predawn efforts by Company I to take Watzerath, attacks with three battalions and captures Watzerath and Weinsfeld.

 

In the XII Corps area, the 319^th Infantry, less the 3^rd Battalion, of the 80^th Division, continues reduction of West Wall fortifications, within the Wallendorf bridgehead. The 318^th Infantry clears the high ground overlooking Bollendorf and mops-up in the Dillingen area. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 317^th Infantry, crosses the river, during the night, in the zone of the 318^th Infantry, to which it is attached. The 5^th Division finishes clearing the high ground along the Sauer River, within its zone, and, in the north, opens an attack on Bollendorf. The 417^th Infantry is detached but, complying with orders for the 76^th Division to secure the southern portion of XII Corps’ bridgehead, continues their action in its current zone and captures Echternacherbruck.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 142, of the 36^th Division, continues to fight in Oberhoffen.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the First Ukrainian Front have crossed the Oder River, northwest of Breslau, and broken through German defenses along the west bank. In conjunction with the assault of German forces southeast of Breslau, they now threaten the Silesian capital with encirclement.

 

In northeastern Germany, Soviet forces overrun Deutsch Krone. Other Red Army troops are eliminating the enemy garrisons of Schneidemuehl and Posen, and claim the capture of 45 city blocks in Budapest.

 

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 36 – 59 B-29s bomb storage dumps around Rangoon, Burma.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends over 100 fighter-bombers to attack troop concentrations, supplies, ammunition dumps, gun positions, and targets of opportunity at several locations. Transports complete 503 sorties to forward bases and over frontline areas, dropping supplies.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s attack Corregidor Island almost continuously throughout the day, while fighter-bombers support ground forces blasting numerous targets. Elsewhere, P-47s blast a train northeast of Heito, Formosa, and B-24s fly a light strike against Bago, on Negros Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 11^th Airborne Division presses northward, toward Manila, against decreasing resistance, reaching Pasay, a suburb, and clearing part of Nichols Field. They make patrol contact with an 8^th Cavalry outpost. To the north, the 37^th Division and the 1^st Cavalry Division continue to clear Manila.

 

In the I Corps area, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 127^th Infantry (32^nd Division), begins a drive up the Villa Verde Trail, but is forced back to the starting point.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 21 B-24s, from Saipan Island, operating in two separate forces, to bomb airfields and defenses on Iwo Jima Island. Three others, on armed reconnaissance, bomb Marcus Island. Meanwhile, 25 B-24s, based on Angaur Island, bomb Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, on Luzon Island.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 30 – Nine B-29s, from the Mariana Islands, carry out a reconnaissance mission for the US Navy. The mission covers a wide east-west area about 200 miles north of Chichi Jima. One aircraft returns early.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 B-24s, from Saipan, to fly individual harassment strikes against Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Monday, February 12, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the Canadian First Army’s British XXX Corps area, the 3^rd Canadian Division takes Kellen and Warbeyen and relieves the British 15^th Division of responsibility for Cleve. The 15^th Division is stubbornly opposed, as it attempts to push toward Calcar. The 43^rd Division seizes Bedburg, a necessary action before continuing a drive on Goch, but is unable to make any headway along the Hau-Goch road. The 53^rd Division continues to clear the Reichswald Forest and withstands strong pressure from its eastern edge. The 51^st Division advances in the southern part of the Reichswald Forest and, to the right, takes Heien, south of Gennep.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 4^th Division completes capture of Pruem. The 6^th Cavalry Group captures that part of Vianden, Luxembourg, west of the Our River.

 

In the XII Corps area, the 319^th Infantry finishes its crossing of the Our River and continues the reduction of stubbornly defended pillboxes on the north flank of the XII Corps bridgehead. Tanks and tank destroyers cross into the 5^th Division bridgehead, where the 10^th Infantry completes the capture of Bollendorf and continues north.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force flies 520 transport sorties to forward areas throughout the day.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s continue to pound Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, and A-20s, sweeping south the Bataan Peninsula, sink about 30 barges loaded with troops, ammunition, and supplies. Throughout the day B-25s and fighters directly support ground forces on the Bataan Peninsula and from the Lingayen Gulf area to Nichols Field.

 

On Luzon, in the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, Japanese forces remaining in Manila are isolated as the 5^th Cavalry and the 12^th Cavalry drive west overrunning Neilson Field. In a coordinated assault by the 188^th Regiment and part of the 187^th Glider Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division, Nichols Field is largely cleared of enemy troops. The 40^th Division advances its flanks, with the 108^th Infantry taking Hill 6 and the 185^th Infantry taking Snake Hill North, but is stubbornly opposed in the center, where progress is slow.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches nine B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb Chichi Jima Island naval installations, while 19 others bomb airfields and defenses on Iwo Jima Island.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 31: 21 B-29s, from the Mariana Islands, bomb heavy anti-aircraft sites on Iwo Jima Island, in preparation for the amphibious invasion of the island on February 19.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 32: 10 B-29s fly a reconnaissance mission for the US Navy. The mission covers a wide east-west area about 200 miles north of Chichi Jima. One B-29 and its crew is lost.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends eight B-24s, from Guam, on single bomber harassment strikes against both Iwo Jima and Chichi Jima.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, February 13, 1945

** Selected Highlights**

 

European Theater

During the night, the RAF dispatches 796 Lancasters and nine Mosquitos, in two separate raids to Dresden. They drop an estimated 2,660 tons of high explosive and incendiary bombs. The first attack is only moderately successful, however, the second raid, three hours later, caused considerable damage, creating a firestorm, similar to the one experienced in Hamburg in July 1943. Elsewhere, 326 Halifaxes, 34 Lancasters, and eight Mosquitos are sent to attack the Braunkohle-Benzin synthetic-oil plant at Böhlen, near Leipzig.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 320 B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s, to attack rail bridges at Sinzig, Neuwied-Irlich, and Euskirchen, military transport depots at Schwelm and Iserlohn, defended points at Wittlich, and targets of opportunity.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s British XXX Corps area, the 15^th Division, driving on Calcar, captures Hasselt. The 43^rd Division takes a strongly defended hill feature near the Cleve Forest, just east of the Reichswald Forest, and screens it. The 53^rd Division overcomes final opposition in the Reichswald Forest and links up with elements of the 51^st Division.

 

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the 80^th Division’s 319^th and 318^th Regiments continue to mop up, with the 319^th taking Amleldingen. The 10^th Infantry, of the 5^th Division, takes Ferschweiler and positions on the high ground around it. The 417^th Infantry, of the 76^th Division, continues to clear the southern portion of the bridgehead and on the northern portion, coordinates with the 5^th Division near Ernzen.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 36^th Division’s advance to the east is halted by flooded terrain along Moder and Rhine rivers. Regimental Combat Team 142 continues to hold Oberhoffen.

 

Eastern Europe

The Red Army completes the capture of Budapest, after a month and a half of fighting.

 

In German Silesia, Soviet forces gain ground northwest of Breslau, encircling Glogau and seizing Beuthen.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 640 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter support, to attack the south ordnance depot, south and southeast goods yards and depot, the central repair shops, and the Matzleinsdorf marshalling yard, in the Vienna area, of Austria.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers hit bridges at Calcinato, Dogna, and Chiusaforte and the bridge approach at Lavis. Fighter-bombers fly nearly 350 sorties against enemy communications in northern Italy, including the marshalling yards at Verona, Parma, and Vicenza.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, troop concentrations, supply areas, and targets of opportunity are pounded by 70 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, at several locations. 477 air supply sorties are flown by transports throughout the day.

 

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the 26^th Brigade, of the British 36^th Division, is holding its Shweli River bridgehead against increasing resistance.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s continue to pound Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, as a large segment of B-24s attack the main coastal guns and score direct hits on several batteries. B-24s bomb Mariveles, on the Bataan Peninsula, while A-20s and P-47s bomb and strafe targets of opportunity throughout the southern part of the Bataan Peninsula. B-25s and fighters attack small shipping during sweeps of the eastern and northern coasts. B-25s, with fighter support, hit the Kagi Airfield, on Formosa.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 37^th Division and the 1^st Cavalry Division are clearing stubborn strongpoints on the approaches to Intramuros, in Manila. The 11^th Airborne Division completes its mop-up of the Nichols Field area. In the 40^th Division zone, the 108^th Infantry takes Hill 7, another of the numbered series, but is driven off.

 

In the XI Corps area, mine sweeping and naval gunfire bombardment of Corregidor is begun, in preparation for landings. The 38^th Division finishes clearing Zigzag defenses, except for a final strongpoint between the 152^nd and 149^th Regiments.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 25 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to fly two strikes against Iwo Jima Island. Meanwhile, 10 others hit Haha Jima Island.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches five B-24s, on individual harassment strikes, to bomb Iwo Jima, at various intervals, over an eight hour period.

 

Final rehearsals for the Iwo Jima operation are concluded, off the coast of Tinian.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, February 14, 1945

**Selected Highlights**

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 830 – 1,377 bombers and 962 fighters are dispatched to hit oil and rail targets in Germany.

 

During the night, the RAF continues Operation Thunderclap, hitting Chemnitz with 499 Lancasters and 218 Halifaxes. This raid is in two phases, three hours apart, and uses a very elaborate diversion plan, which succeeds in keeping bomber casualties down. Meanwhile, 224 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos attack the oil refinery in Rositz, near Leipzig.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 600 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to attack rail bridges, a marshalling yard, communications centers, an ammunition dump, a prime mover depot, and several targets of opportunity, in morning and afternoon missions aimed primarily at obstructing enemy movement and supply.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s British XXX Corps area, the Canadian 3^rd Division takes a village on the Rhine, opposite Emmerich. The 15^th Division is bitterly opposed as it attempts to reach Moyland from Hasselt, on the road to Calcar. The 43^rd Division withstands strong pressure in the vicinity of the Cleve Forest. The 53^rd Division fights for high ground north of Asperberg, making slow progress. The 51^st Division overruns Kessel, in a nighttime attack, and is reinforced by the 32^nd Guards Brigade, of the Guards Armoured Division, which takes Hommersum.

 

In the US Third Army area, XII Corps has firm control of the bridgehead through the West Wall and is consolidating it and preparing for a drive to Pruem River. The 317^th Infantry crosses the river and begins clearing the enemy from the Bollendorf area. The 11^th Infantry takes Ernzen. On the southern flank of the bridgehead, the 417^th Infantry, of the 76^th Division, takes hill positions, reduces pillboxes, and helps the 5^th Division capture Ernzen.

 

Eastern Europe

The Red Army overruns Schneidemuehl, in northeastern Prussia.

 

In German Silesia, they gain ground northwest and southwest of Liegnitz.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 500 B-24s and B-17s to bomb the Moosbierbaum, Vienna/Lobau, Vienna/Floridsdorf, and Schwechat oil refineries, all located in the Vienna area, of Austria. They also hit the marshalling yards at Graz, Gleisdorf, Klagenfurt, and Villach, in Austria, Celje, Maribor, and Zagreb, in Yugoslavia.

 

China Theater

14^th Air Force P-47s bomb the Kaifeng Airfield and P-51s hit the Shihkiachwang Airfield, destroying several parked aircraft. Afterwards the P-51s blast seven locomotives between Puchou and Sinsiang. Other fighters destroy seven more locomotives between Sinyang and Hsuchang, bomb the railroad yards at Lohochai, and destroy a fuel dump at Hsiangcheng.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force transports continue to operate despite the weather, completing 520 sorties to forward areas.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s continue to bomb Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, concentrating on the dock area and gun positions. Other B-24s bomb Mariveles, on the Bataan Peninsula, and B-25s bomb the airfield at Tuguegarao. More B-25s and fighters provide excellent support for ground forces, blasting guns and troops west of Clark Field, north of the Marikina Aairfield, and north of Montalban. A-20s pound the general area of south Bataan. On Mindanao Island, B-25s bomb barges at Zamboanga and P-38s bomb the Matina Airfield. Fighters, on armed reconnaissance, strafe airfields on Negros and Cebu islands. A few B-25s bomb the Kagi Airfield, on Formosa, and nearby targets of opportunity.

 

In the US Sixth Army area, XIV Corps continues to battle strongpoints in Manila.

 

In the XI Corps area, while the 38^th Division is concluding action against the Zigzag, where firm contact is made between the 149^th and 152^nd Regiments, XI Corps begins operations to clear the Bataan Peninsula, the first of a series of operations to reopen Manila Bay.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 17 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb defenses and radar and radio installations on Iwo Jima Island, at midday.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends five more B-24s, on individual snooper missions, to bomb Iwo Jima Airfield and anti-aircraft positions, while four others, in separate strikes, hit the Susaki Airfield, on Chichi Jima Island.

[dschneck]

Thursday, February 15, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 832 – 1,131bombers and 510 fighters are dispatched to hit oil targets in Germany.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches around 90 B-26s to bomb the Sinzig and Mayen rail bridges and four targets of opportunity in the area.

 

The Canadian First Army commits Canadian II Corps to Operation VERITABLE, the Canadian First Army operation to clear the area between the Maas and Rhine rivers. Canadian II Corps becomes responsible for the left sector of British XXX Corps’ front, from a line from Grave to Groesbeek to Cleve to Emmerich, northward. The Canadian 3^rd Division is attached to II Corps in place, and takes Huisberden, east of Cleve.

 

In the British XXX Corps area, the main effort is directed against obstacles before Goch, the next big objective. The 43^rd Division fights hard for hill features east of the Cleve Forest.

 

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the 417^th Infantry, of the 76^th Division, reduces additional pillboxes and clears the high ground north of Minden.

 

In the XX Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 302^nd Infantry (94^th Division), takes several pillboxes and shelters east of the Campholz woods, but loses them in a strong nighttime counterattack.

 

In the US Seventh Army area, XV Corps opens a limited offensive to straighten and shorten its front line, by eliminating enemy salients at Gros Réderching, in the 44^th Division sector, and at Wilferding, in the 63^rd Division zone. The 44^th Division, leading off, attacks with the 324^th Infantry, through the Buschenbusch woods, against light resistance. In the center, the 71^st Infantry thrusts northeast, capturing Rimling, and reaching the objective. On the left, the 114^th Infantry, despite enemy fire in the vicinity of the Bellevue Farm, attains the regimental objective on other side of Bois de Blies Brucken. The 63^rd Division, to advance its right flank and tie in with the 44^th Division’s left, attacks with the 255^th Infantry to clear Bois de Blies Brucken.

 

Eastern Europe

While troops of the Second White Russian Front improve their positions north of Bromberg, in northwestern Poland, forces of First Ukrainian Front seize Gruenberg, in northern Silesia, and enter Brandenburg.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 650 B-24s and B-17s to bomb five railroad freight yards, southeast goods depot, Korneuburg oil refinery, and the Vienna/Floridsdorf, Matzleinsdorf, and Penzing marshalling yards, all in the Vienna area, plus the marshalling yards at Klagenfurt, Wiener-Neustadt and Graz, the Graz ordnance depot, all in Austria. The shipyards in Fiume, Italy, and scattered targets of opportunity are also hit.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

Large scale transport operations continue, as 511sorties are flown to forward areas.

 

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, the Indian 20^th Division is beginning to meet strong opposition, as it is expanding and consolidating its Irrawaddy bridgehead.

 

In the IV Corps area, the Indian 7^th Division expands its Irrawaddy bridgehead to Pagan and elements still west of the river take Pakokku.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s attack bridges in the southern part of Formosa. B-24s again blast Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay, with A-20s and fighter-bombers bombing and strafing its few remaining gun positions. Fighter-bombers hit Caballo Island and fighter-bombers, B-25s, and A-20s hit the Bataan Peninsula all day. Also hit are troops and gun positions, in the Ft. William McKinley area, and airfields at Tuguegarao and Echague.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, bitter fighting continues within Manila. The 40^th Division, to the right rear, continues to clear the enemy from the hills in its zone. The 185^th Infantry gains its final objective, Hill 1500. The 108^th Infantry is attempting to regain Hill 7 and the 160^th Infantry is trying to clear its objectives in the 40^th Division’s center.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 38^th Division completes its mop-up of the enemy’s Zigzag position. After a preparatory bombardment, South Force lands on the Mariveles coast at 1000 Hours. No opposition is met, but the Japanese counterattack, during the night. The last organized enemy effort on the east coast is repulsed.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 24 B-24s, from Saipan Island, in two separate strikes, to bomb Iwo Jima Island airfields and anti-aircraft defenses. 12 others hit the airfield on Chichi Jima Island, while four B-24s, from Guam Island, escorting photo aircraft over Truk Atoll, bomb airfields on Param and Moen islands.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends five B-24s on harassment raids against Iwo Jima and Chichi Jima.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 34 – 117 B-29s, from the Mariana Islands, are dispatched to hit the Mitsubishi aircraft engine works at Nagoya, Japan. They also hit targets of last resort and targets of opportunity, including Hamamatsu. The bombers shoot down seven Japanese aircraft. One B-29 and crew are lost.

[dschneck]

Friday, February 16, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 833 – 1,042 bombers and 197 fighters attack benzol plants, oil refineries and marshalling yards in central Germany.

 

The RAF dispatches 100 Lancasters and one Mosquito to attack the town of Wesel, on the Rhine River, near the fighting area.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 300 B-26s and A-20s to bomb the Mayen rail bridge, Rees communications center, Solingen turbo-jet component works, Unna ordnance depot, and a target of opportunity, all in Germany.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s British XXX Corps area, the 53^rd Division reaches Asperberg and finds the bridge blown. The 51^st Division captures Asperden. The 52^nd Division, taking over the 51st Division’s right, clears Afferden, during the night.

 

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, elements of the 80^th, 5^th, and 76^th Divisions engage in local actions to improve their bridgehead positions and patrol actively.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 44^th Division repels counterattacks.

 

Eastern Europe

The Red Army completes the circle around Breslau, Silesia.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 630 B-24s and B-17s to bomb airfields at Regensburg, Landsberg, and Neubiberg, in Germany, marshalling yards at Rosenheim, Germany, Hall, and Innsbruck, Austria, and Bolzano, and Vipiteno, in Italy, plus scattered targets of opportunity in Austria and northern Italy.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force transports fly 632 sorties delivering men and supplies to forward bases and dropping supplies to frontline troops.

 

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia’s (ALFSEA) XV Corps area, a brigade of the Indian 25^th Division lands on the Arakan coast, near Ru-ywa, west of An. They are to operate in conjunction with the West African 82^nd Division, which is moving down from the north, in an effort to block the enemy withdrawal toward Prome. The landing is supported by aircraft and by artillery that has been emplaced secretly on a small island nearby. The Japanese offer little opposition.

 

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, the Indian 20^th Division consolidates its Irrawaddy bridgehead, but the enemy is bringing heavy pressure to bear against it and hard fighting continues for the next few days.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) fighters attack vehicles and trains in the southern part of Formosa. On Luzon Island, a force of over 120 A-20s and B- 24s pound Corregidor Island, during the early daylight hours, followed by amphibious and airborne landings. A-20s and fighter-bombers also bomb nearby Caballo Island, while B-25s support ground forces in the Mariveles area, hit facilities at Baguio and Santa Fe, and bomb Camalaniugan Airfield. P-38s hit the Likanan and Matina airfields, on Mindanao Island, and B-24s pound the Kendari Airfield, on Celebes Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 108^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division, regains Hill 7 and continues west, turning the right flank of the Japanese line.

 

In the XI Corps area, after intensive preparatory bombardment by aircraft and naval vessels, Rock Force, comprised of the 503^rd Parachute Regimental Combat Team and the reinforced 3^rd Battalion, of the 34^th Infantry (24th Division), starts landing on Corregidor, about 0830 hours. The 5^th Air Force begins dropping the 503^rd Parachute Regimental Combat Team. The 3^rd Battalion, of the 34^th Infantry, arrives by sea, from Mariveles, and starts ashore about 1030 hours. A beachhead is established and contact made between the paratroopers and the 34^th Infantry troops, without serious difficulty, since the enemy is shaken by the preparatory bombardment and is taken completely by surprise.

 

Central Pacific Area

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches four B-24s, based on Guam, to separately hit the Susaki Airfield, on Chichi Jima Island.

 

Intensive pre-invasion bombardment of Iwo Jima begins. Task Force 52 and Task Force 54 arrive off the island and start naval and air bombardment, and mine sweeping. Aircraft from the escort carriers coordinate with bombers, based in the Marianas, in pounding Iwo Jima while planes of Task Force 58, a fast carrier force, deliver simultaneous attacks on Japan, in general support of the Iwo Jima operation.

 

In the Marianas, the Joint Expeditionary Force, Task Force 51, leaves Saipan for Iwo Jima.

[dschneck]

Saturday, February 17, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 834 – 346 B-17s and 549 B-24s, escorted by 167 P-51s, are sent to hit the marshalling yard at Frankfurt, as the main target, the Giessen marshalling yard, Aschaffenburg, and Hanau. Deteriorating weather forces the recall of 261 B-17s and 288 B-24s. The weather is so bad that some aircraft controls froze and several had to jettison their bombs during assembly. In other parts of the mission, 12 P-51s fly a Scouting Force mission and four others escort photo reconnaissance aircraft over Germany. Three B-17s, two B-24s and one P-51 are lost, with 56 men listed as killed or missing.

 

The RAF dispatches 247 Halifaxes, 27 Lancasters, and 24 Mosquitos to Wese, but the target area is covered by clouds and the Master Bomber orders the raid to be stopped after only eight Halifaxes complete their bomb runs. Three Halifaxes crash in England upon their return.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the Canadian First Army area, British XXX Corps closes in on Goch. The 43^rd Division clears an escarpment northeast of the town. The 51^st Division, and the attached elements of the Guards Armoured Division, move in on the west and clear Hassum.

 

In the US Seventh Army area, XV Corps begins the second phase of a limited offensive to straighten and shorten the battle line, employing the 70^th Division, on the left flank, against the heights southwest of Saarbruecken. The 276^th Infantry tries in vain to take Oeting, but gains the hills commanding the town. The 274^th Infantry seizes Kerbach and Behren.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of about 500 B-17s and B-24s to attack the marshalling yard, station, and benzol plant at Linz, steel works at Judenburg, tank works at Steyr and Sankt Valentin, the marshalling yards at Graz, Wels, Bruck an der Mur, and Villach, in Austria.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

14 P-47s, from the 10^th Air Force, support ground forces in the Mongmit-Myitson area, while over 140 fighter-bombers strike at troop concentrations, supply points, transport, animal concentrations, and tanks. 603 transport sorties are flown.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, with fighter support, attack the airfield, railroad yard, and aluminum plant at Takao, Formosa. On Luzon Island, A-20s support ground forces, in the Mariveles area, and hit caves and dugouts in the hills west of Ft. Stotsenburg.

 

In the US Sixth Army area, XIV Corps begins intensive fire against Intramuros, in Manila, in preparation for an assault.

 

In the XI Corps area, East Force, now backed up by the 149^th Infantry, the 38^th Reconnaissance Troop, and supporting units, which were released from the Zigzag, starts west on Bataan, along the Pilar–Bagac Road, without opposition. From Mariveles, South Force is working northward. Rock Force is methodically clearing Corregidor. The 1^st Battalion, of the 503^rd Parachute Regimental Combat Team, arrives there by landing craft.

 

On Mindoro, the US Eighth Army activates Palawan Task Force, composed of the 41^st Division’s 186^th Infantry, reinforced, and under the command of Brigadier General Harold Haney, to make an amphibious assault, coded named Operation VICTOR III, on Palawan, on February 28. The 41^st Division is also to clear the Zamboanga Peninsula, on Mindanao, beginning March 10.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 42 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to blast defense installations and a bivouac area on Iwo Jima Island. Three others, on an armed reconnaissance flight, bomb Marcus Island, while three more B-24s, from Guam Island, escorting a photo plane over Truk Atoll, bomb Param, Uman, and Eten islands in the atoll.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 35 – Nine B-29s, from Saipan, bomb the submarine pens on Dublon Island, Truk Atoll.

 

Fifth Fleet surface vessels, and carrier-based and land-based planes continue to pound Iwo Jima, as underwater demolition teams go into action.

 

Carrier planes, of Task Force 58, again provide general support of the imminent Iwo operation with attacks on Tokyo.

[dschneck]

Sunday, February 18, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the Canadian First Army area, British XXX Corps begins an assault on Goch, with the 15^th Division reaching the northern outskirts of the town, after passing through the 43^rd Division, and the 51^st Division entering Goch from the northwest. After being passed through, the 43^rd Division gradually works east, from the Goch area.

 

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps renews its offensive, attacking south, toward XII Corps’ zone, through West Wall defenses, in the region west of the Pruem. An early morning assault, without artillery preparation, takes the enemy by surprise, and the 90^th Infantry and 11^th Armored Divisions overrun numerous pillboxes and other obstacles. In the north, the 90^th Division’s 358^th Infantry takes the hill commanding Pronsfeld, from the northwest. The 359^th Infantry seizes Kesfeld. Attacking on a narrow front in coordination with the 90^th Division, Combat Command R, of the 11^th Armored Division, gains Grosskampenberg and Leidenborn. On VIII Corps’ southern flank, the 6^th Cavalry Group secures a small bridgehead east of the Our River, between Gemund and Biewels, and a builds footbridge.

 

XII Corps attacks northeast, toward the Pruem River, against scattered resistance. On the left, the 80^th Division’s 318^th Infantry takes Cruchten and drives toward Hommerdingen. The 317^th Infantry captures Stockigt and advances on Nusbaum. The 5^th Division, to the right, crosses the Enz River and drives to the west bank of the Pruem River, from the vicinity of Peffingen, southeastward. The 2^nd Infantry, making the main effort, takes Schankweiler. The 11^th Infantry clears the west bank of the Pruem River, to the southeast. The 385^th Infantry, of the 76^th Division, consolidates its positions to the right of the 5^th Division.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 10^th Division overruns Oeting and pushes on toward Forbach on the left. In the center, they take Etzling and reach the ridge south of Stiring Wendel. On the right, they clear Lixing and Grosbliederstroff. Enemy infiltrators recover Auersmacher, from elements of the 253^rd Infantry, of the 63^rd Division.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches 160 B-17s, escorted by 20 P-38s, to bomb a benzol plant, the main marshalling yard and station at Linz, Austria.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, preparation for a main attack on Monte Belvedere and Monte Castello continues. In order to improve their positions west of Highway 64, the 1^st Battalion, of the 86^th Infantry (10^th Mountain Division), begins scaling the steep Sarasiccia-Campania cliff, to the left, at 1930 hours, taking the enemy by surprise and gaining their objectives during the night. During the night, the main assault force of the 10^th Mountain Division moves secretly to the base of the Belvedere–Gorgolesco feature.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, with P-38s support, bomb the Takao, Okayama, and Toshien airfields, while B-25s and fighters pound communications targets and targets of opportunity throughout Formosa. B-25s and fighters continue to fly numerous missions in support of the ground forces on Luzon Island. B-24s bomb the Labuan Airfield, in Borneo.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 36 B-24s, from Guam Island, to attack Iwo Jima Island, but they are recalled because of complete cloud cover over the target. Three others, on armed reconnaissance, bomb Marcus Island.

 

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 36 – 36 B-29s, based in the Mariana Islands, bomb two airfields on Moen Island, in Truk Atoll.

 

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends nine B-24s, from Guam, to individually bomb Chichi Jima Island.

 

The pre-invasion bombardment of Iwo Jima continues, with special attention to the landing beach area.

 

US Navy Task Force 58 sails from the Japan area for Iwo Jima, to assist in the invasion when weather conditions prevent further attacks on Japan.