WWII - 70 Years Ago

1,138 · March 15, 2015

Thursday, March 15, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 889 – 1,353 bombers and 833 fighters are dispatched to hit German Army HQ and a marshalling yard at Oranienburg.

The RAF dispatches 150 Halifaxes, 24 Mosquitos, and 14 Lancasters to attack oil plants at Bottrop and Castrop-Rauxel.

During the night, the RAF sends 134 Lancasters, 122 Halifaxes, and 11 Mosquitos to attack Hagen. Meanwhile, 257 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos attack the Deurag refinery at Misburg, on the outskirts of Hannover.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the Canadian First Army area, Canadian I Corps takes up positions in northwestern Europe, having transferred gradually from Italy.

In the US First Army’s III Corps area, the 78^th Division pushes a little closer to the autobahn, with the 311^th and the 39^th Regiments, while the 309^th Infantry reorganizes. The 311^th Infantry gains up to 2,000 yards and the 39^th Infantry clears Schweifeld. The 9^th Division completes the capture of Lorscheid and takes Notscheid. With elements of three regiments in assault, the 99^th Division expands its bridgehead some 2,500 yards to the southeast and east, taking several terrain features and villages. Enemy air attacks on bridges decrease during the day.

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the 359^th Infantry completes the capture of Morshausen and clears Beulich, Mermuth, and Ober and Nieder Gondershausen. The 5^th Division expands its bridgehead southeast, taking Lieg, Dommershausen, and Dorweiler. Enemy columns, withdrawing in disorder to avoid Allied armor, suffer heavily from combined action of troops, tanks, artillery, and aircraft.

In the XX Corps area, the 94^th Division drives about 10,000 yards east, as resistance slackens. As a result, the 302^nd Infantry takes Hill 708 and Reinsfeld, the 301^st Infantry clears Schillingen, Kell, and Gusenburg, and the 376^th starts toward Schillingen. In the 80^th Division zone, the 318^th Infantry mops-up. The 317^th Infantry clears Waldholzbach and Scheiden, and reaches the Mitlesheim area. The 319^th Infantry takes Bergen and clears toward Britten and Losheim.

The US Seventh Army opens Operation UNDERTONE, an offensive to break through the West Wall and, in conjunction with the Third Army to the north, clear the Saar–Palatinate triangle, within the confines of the rivers Rhine, Moselle, and Lauter–Sarre.

The 63^rd Division attacks on the right flank of XXI Corps, southeast of Saarbruecken, to develop West Wall positions and clears Fechingen, Eschringen, and Ensheim.

In the XV Corps area, the 45^th and 3^rd Divisions, passing through the 44^th Division, drive north, into Germany.

VI Corps attacks across the Rothbach and Moder rivers, with four Infantry divisions abreast, assisted by armor, of the 14^th Armored Division.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends 109 B-17s to bomb the oil refinery at Ruhland, thus marking the 15^th Air Force’s deepest penetration into Germany. 103 others bomb the alternate target, the refinery at Kolin, Czechoslovakia. Over 470 other bombers attack targets in Austria.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In support of US ground forces on Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, A-20s, and P-38s hit a headquarters area at Baguio, while P-47s hit the Minuli bridge and enemy concentrations in the Balete Pass and west of Ft. Stotsenburg, and A-20s and P-47s hit gun positions and occupied areas around Batangas.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 127^th Infantry, of the 32^nd Division continues hard fighting on the Villa Verde Trail. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 128^th Infantry, gets to within 500 yards of Imugan, where it is brought to a halt by the enemy.

XIV Corps has penetrated the enemy’s outer positions in the Montalban-Antipolo area.

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Iwo Jima)

The 4^th and 3^rd Marine Divisions, of the V Amphibious Corps, further reduce enemy pockets within their sectors. The 5^th Marine Division gains 400 yards on the right and 200 yards in the center.

1,138 · March 16, 2015

Friday, March 16, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

The RAF sends 277 Lancasters and 16 Mosquitos to attack Nuremburg, in Bomber Command’s last raid on this target. Meanwhile, 225 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos attack Würzburg.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 280 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s to attack the Landau barracks area and communications center, the Niederscheld town area and rail bridge, six other town areas, a marshalling yard, rail junction, crossroads, and also drop leaflets.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 311^th Infantry clears most of Konigswinter, while the 309^th Infantry takes Hovel and Aegidienberg, and cuts the Cologne–Frankfurt Autobahn.

In III Corp’s 9^th Division zone, now the northern flank of III Corps, the 39^th Infantry takes Kalenborn, the 47^th Infantry gains a little ground near Vettelschoss, and the 60^th Infantry takes Strodt. The 99^th Division gains up to 4,000 yards, as it continues east and south through Honningen Wald.

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division begins an assault across the Moselle River early in day, crossing the 347^th and 345^th Regiments, in the Winningen–Kolberg region, against light resistance. Clearing southwest, along the east bank of the Moselle River, the 347^th Infantry takes Dieblich, Dieblicherberg, Nieder Fell, and positions near Waldesch. The 345^th Infantry thrusts northeast, through Lay, to the outskirts of Koblenz.

In the XII Corps area, Task Force Spiess, consisting of the 90^th Reconnaissance Troop, reinforced, is organized to clear the Boppard–St. Goar sector of the Rhine River. They cross the Moselle River at Hatzenport and quickly drives to the Rhine River, taking Weiler, Hirzenach, Rheinbay, Karbach, Holzfeld, Werlau, and Hungeroth. The 4^th Armored Division speeds southeast to the Nahe River, near Bad Kreuznach, and secures a bridgehead. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 10^th Infantry, clears the Moselle River bend, east of Cochem.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 103^rd Infantry clears Zinswiller and Oberbronn, and reaches the outskirts of Reichshoffen. After massed artillery fire, the 142^nd Infantry, of the 36^th Division, crosses the Zintzel River and captures Mertzwiller. A German withdrawal, on the right flank of VI Corps, permits the 3^rd Algerian Division to rapidly move forward.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 720 B-24s and B-17s to bomb the oil refineries at Korneuburg, Vienna/Floridsdorf, Schwechat, and Moosbierbaum, in Austria. Fighters fly over 300 sorties in, escorting the bombers, supply runs, and reconnaissance operations.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) A-20s and B-24s continue pounding Japanese installations at Baguio. P-51s strike Patapat, hitting vehicles and supplies. Fighters on patrol hit Caballo Island, in Manila Bay. The Batangas area is again pounded by fighter-bombers and A-20s. B-24s hit the Talisay and Carolina airfields, on Negros Island, and bomb targets pinpointed by guerrillas, on Cebu Island. B-25s bomb the San Roque Airfield, on Mindanao Island, and attack Tarakan Island and Jesselton airfields, in Borneo. On Formosa, B-24s also hit the town of Taihoku, airfields at Heito, and the Okayama naval airbase.

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 103^rd Infantry seizes Bench Mark 20, 1½ miles north of Teresa, and drives to crest of Bench Mark 7, the last enemy strongpoint west of the Morong River Valley.

In the XIV Corps area, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 158^th Infantry, reaches Mabini, completing the capture of the Calumpan Peninsula.

In the US Eighth Army area, on Mindanao, after a 30 minute naval gunfire bombardment by a destroyer, Company F, of the 162^nd Infantry (41^st Division), reinforced, moves by water from Zamboanga to Basilan Island, and lands without opposition.

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Iwo Jima)

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 43 – 331 B-29s are dispatched to fire-raid Kobe, Japan, in the heaviest attack to date. Bombing from 5,000 to 9,500 feet, during the predawn hours, the attack lasts for two hours and eight minutes. About 2.9 square miles, or 20%, of the city's area is burned, destroying about 500 industrial buildings and damaging 162. 65,951homes are lost leaving 242,468 people homeless. Casualties are 2,669 dead or missing, and 11,289 injured. The B-29 crews see 314 enemy aircraft, which make a total of 93 individual attacks. The bombers shoot down one Japanese aircraft. Three B-29s are lost, but none to the enemy fighters.

Iwo Jima is declared secure at 1800 hours, though the enemy continues to hold out on the northern tip. Regimental Combat Team 25 eliminates a pocket on the 4^th Marine Division’s right flank.

1,138 · March 17, 2015

Saturday, March 17, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 892 – 1,328 bombers and 820 P-51s are dispatched to hit oil, industrial and rail targets in Germany.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 650 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to bomb five marshalling yards, two communications centers, an ordnance depot, three city areas, and several targets of opportunity.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 1^st Division begins their attack east of the Rhine River, toward the Sieg River.

In the III Corps area, the 9^th Division cuts the autobahn near Windhagen, overruns Vettelschoss, and partly clears the high ground along the Wied River, east of Strodt.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 345^th Infantry, of the 87^th Division, attacks east, through Koblenz, with the 2^nd and 3^rd Battalions, while the 1^st Battalion remains in the southern outskirts. About a third of the city is cleared in house-to-house fighting.

In the XII Corps area, at noon, the 11^th Armored Division begins a drive toward the Rhine River, at Worms.

In the XX Corps area, Combat Command B, of the 10^th Armored Division, crosses the Nahe River, near Turkismuhle. Combat Command A closes in along the west bank of the Prims River, on the right flank of the 10^th Armored Division.

In the US Seventh Army area, the 63^rd Division continues their efforts to break through the West Wall, on the right flank of XXI Corps.

VI Corps advances rapidly all along the line, as resistance slackens sharply. On the left, the 42^nd Division gains up to six miles, clearing Bannstein, Stuzelbronn, Baerenthal, Philippsbourg, Dambach, Neunhoffen, and Niedersteinbach.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, the Japanese continue to hold Fort Dufferin, in Mandalay. The British 2^nd Division takes Ava Fort, at the bend of the Irrawaddy, south of Mandalay.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Formosa airfields are pounded by Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s operating in force. On Luzon Island, nearly 500 sorties are flown in support of ground forces, by B-25s, A-20s, and fighters.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 27^th Infantry, of the 25^th Division, begins an attack along the ridge leading to Mt. Myoko, on Balete Ridge, 5,500 yards southeast of Balete Pass.

In the XI Corps area, the 6^th Division attacks eastward, against the Shimbu line, with the 20^th Regiment on the north and the 1^st Regiment on the south, while the 63^rd Infantry holds along the general line from San Mateo to Montalban to San Isidro, gaining the day’s objectives.

In the US Eighth Army area, the Japanese on Mindanao are firmly established at Masilay and Pasananca. The 162^nd Infantry, of the 41^st Division, improves their positions near San Roque, capturing a hill. The 163^rd Infantry advances northwest of Pasananca.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 11 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb the Susaki Airfield, on Chichi Jima Island.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 44 – 77 B-29s are dispatched to hit a storage dump at Rangoon, Burma. The Sagyi Airfield and warehouses at Bassein are also hit.

On Iwo Jima, Regimental Combat Team 24 continues mopping-up the 4^th Marine Division’s zone, on the right flank of the V Amphibious Corps. The 3^rd Marine Division mops-up within its sector. The enemy is confined to such a small portion of northern Iwo Jima, that artillery support of the 5^th Marine Division is impossible. The 5^th Marine Division pockets enemy forces, including their commander, Lt. General Tadamichi Kuribayashi, in an area 700 yards long and 200 to 500 yards wide.

1,138 · March 18, 2015

Sunday, March 18, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 894 – 1,329 bombers and 733 fighters are dispatched to hit railway stations and tanks plants in the Berlin area, as the Luftwaffe makes it's most concentrated and successful attacks with Me 262s to date.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 259 Halifaxes, 45 Lancasters, and 20 Mosquitos to Witten. Meanwhile, 277 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos bomb Hanau.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 660 A- 20s, A-26s and B-26s to attack the marshalling yards at Wetzlar, Worms, Kreuztal, and Bad Durkheim, a communications center at Bad Durkheim, and four town areas, with the aim of hampering enemy movement.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 78^th Division, driving north along the east bank of the Rhine River, with the 311^th Infantry on the left and the 310^th Infantry on the right, secures Nieder and Ober Dollendorf, and the high ground dominating the Konigswinter bridge site.

In the III Corps area, the 9^th Division, pressing toward its initial objective line along the Pfeffer and Wied rivers, clears Windhagen and Ober Windhagen, improves its positions east of Vettelschoss, and gains the high ground along the Wied River, in the Strodt area.

In the US Third Army s VIII Corps area, the 345^th Infantry, of the 87^th Division, clears most of Koblenz and places direct fire on Fort Constantine, which continues to hold out.

In the XII Corps area, the 11^th Armored Division speeds south, to the Nahe River, and crosses elements, although the bridges are wrecked.

In the XX Corps area, the 94^th Division pursues the disorganized enemy to Baumholder. The 104^th Infantry, of the 26^th Division, takes Gresaubach, Thalexweiler, Aschbach, and Dirmingen, while the 101^st Infantry clears Lebach, Bubach, and Kalmesweiler.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 42^nd Division, crossing into Germany, reaches West Wall defenses on left flank of VI Corps.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On south Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, A-20s, and fighters support ground forces by hitting the Ipo area and various targets in Batangas Province. B-24s again bomb Bacolod, on Negros Island, hit several targets on Cebu Island, and bomb the Sepinggang and Jesselton airfields, on Borneo. On Formosa, the airfield at Tainan, a seaplane base at Takao, and an emergency field at Koshun are also hit.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 33^rd Division Task Force, based on the 1^st Battalion, of the 130^th Infantry, reinforced, assembles near Bauang, for reconnaissance, in force, of the Bauang–Naguilian area. The 25^th Division, at last, overruns the enemy positions north of Putlan.

In the XI Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 20^th Infantry (6^th Division), attacks northeast, during the night, toward Mt. Baytangan.

In the US Eighth Army area, the VICTOR I Attack Group, Task Group 78.3, under the command of Admiral Struble, lands the 185^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division, on south Panay, after a brief naval gunfire bombardment of the landing beaches, in the Tigbauan area. The landing is unopposed and assault forces move rapidly east and northeast, toward Iloilo, with forward elements reaching Arevale, 10 miles east of Tigbauan. 40^th Reconnaissance Troop columns drive to Alimodian and Santa Barbara. In the Mindanao area, elements of Company F, of the 162^nd Infantry (41^st Division), move from Basilan Island to Malamaui Island, where a search for enemy troops is uneventful.

Central Pacific Area

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 45 – During the night, 313 B-29s continue the fire raids on Japanese cities, bombing Nagoya, from 4,500 to 9,000 feet, with incendiaries, for the second time this month. An additional three square miles are destroyed. The Nagoya arsenal, Aichi engine plant and freight yards are damaged, but the Mitsubishi plants escape with minor damage. This Mission ends the March fire raids.

On Iwo Jima, Regimental Combat Teams 9 and 21, of the 3^rd Marine Division, patrol and mop-up from this date, until relieved by garrison forces. The 5^th Marine Division is methodically reducing the final pocket of resistance. Regimental Combat Team 28 conducts a holding action, along the southern rim of the rocky gorge across its front, and provides fire support, while Regimental Combat Team 26 works forward, slowly from north to east.

In preparation for Operation ICEBERG, the invasion of the Ryukyus Islands, carrier planes of Task Force 58 attack the Japanese homeland to neutralize enemy airfields on Kyushu. The strikes are highly effective, resulting in heavy damage to airfields and installations, and the destruction of many aircraft on the ground and in the air.

1,138 · March 19, 2015

Monday, March 19, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 896 – 1,273 bombers and 675 fighters are dispatched to hit airfields and industrial targets in Germany, and are met by over 100 Luftwaffe fighters, including 36 Me 262s, in formation as the largest number of jets seen as a unit.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, continuing north along the Rhine River, the 78^th Division’s 311^th Infantry takes Romlinghoven, Obercassel, and positions dominating the bridge site, while the 310^th Infantry overruns Busch, Bennert, and Heisterbacherrott.

In the III Corps area, the 9^th Division, continuing east, throughout the day and night, with the 39^th and 47^th Regiments, secures the initial bridgehead line by dawn of March 20.

In the V Corps area, elements of the 9^th Infantry, of the 2^nd Division, clear a Rhine River island, near Namedy.

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps’ zone, west of the Rhine River, is cleared, as the 87^th Division gains its objectives.

In the XII Corps area, the 90^th Division attacks across the Nahe River, toward the Rhine River, at Mainz. The 4^th Armored Division makes rapid progress against weakening resistance. With close air support softening resistance immediately ahead, the 11^th Armored Division breaks through the last enemy defense positions on the high ground south of the Nahe River and pursues the demoralized enemy east, toward the Rhine River.

XX Corps continues rapidly east, toward the Rhine River. The 94^th Division gains 22 miles in the 302^nd Infantry’s zone and 12 miles in the 376^th Infantry’s zone.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 800 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escorts, to hit marshalling yards at Landshut, Passau, Muhldorf, Plattling, Garching an der Alz and Altenmarkt an der Alz, in Germany, and Sankt Veit an der Glan, Lambach, Klagenfurt, in Austria.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, a 33^rd Division Task Force takes Bauang town and bridge, with little difficulty.

In the XI Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 20^th Infantry (6^th Division), reaches positions some 1,200 yards west of Mt. Baytangan, during the morning. The 1^st Infantry renews their attack and gains ground to the right of the 20^th Infantry. The 172^nd Infantry, in an effort to envelop Sugar Loaf Hill, moves the 2^nd Battalion through the 103^rd Infantry, to Mt. Caymayuman, to strike from the rear. The 3^rd Battalion, of the 103^rd Infantry, continues clearing Mt. Tanauan, where the enemy is offering strong opposition.

In the XIV Corps area, a patrol of the 511^th Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division, and guerrillas occupy Mt. Bijang, without opposition. Regimental Combat Team 158 begins an attack for three hills in the Cuenca area. The 2^nd Battalion reaches two of the hills with ease, but the 3^rd Battalion, attacking the third hill, Mt. Macolod, is stopped short of Cuenca by intense enemy fire.

In the US Eighth Army area, on Panay, one 185^th Infantry column continues toward Iloilo, until halted by enemy defenses, at Molo. Another seizes the Carpenter bridge across the Iloilo River, north of Molo, before the Japanese can destroy it. A third column seizes Mandurriao and its airfield, without opposition.

Central Pacific Area

On Iwo Jima, the 5^th Marine Division’s Regimental Combat Team 26, assisted by fire of Regimental Combat Team 28, maintains pressure against the final enemy pocket, and slowly moves forward.

For the second successive day, carrier planes of Task Force 58 strike at the Japanese homeland, concentrating on enemy fleet units in the Kure-Kobe area. Despite extremely heavy anti-aircraft fire, carrier planes damage at least 16 Japanese warships and a number of other vessels. Enemy planes hit the USS Franklin (CV) and leave it burning. During the afternoon Task Force 58 withdraws southward, covering the disabled Franklin and conducting fighter sweeps over Kyushu airfields.

1,138 · March 20, 2015

Tuesday, March 20, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 898 – 451bombers and 355 fighters are dispatched to hit the shipyard and dock area at Hamburg and an oil refinery.

The RAF sends 125 Halifaxes, 16 Lancasters, and 12 Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Recklinghausen, while 99 Lancasters attack the railway yards at Hamm.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 224 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos to attacked the synthetic-oil plant near Böhlen. Meanwhile, 166 Lancasters fly an equally effective attack on the oil refinery at Hemmingstedt.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 360 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to bomb the Geisecke marshalling yard, Sythen ammunition filling plant, the town of Gronau and a nearby a rail bridge, and several casual targets in or near nine other towns.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, continuing north along the Rhine River, toward the Sieg, Regimental Combat Team 311, on the 78^th Division’s left, reaches Geislar. The 16^th Infantry takes its objective towns of Stieldorferhohn and Oberpleis. The 18^th Infantry captures Berghausen and Bennerscheid, and the commanding heights and villages near these towns.

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, driving quickly toward Mainz, with the 358^th Infantry on the left, the 359^th Infantry in the center, and Task Force Spiess on the right, the 90^th Division reaches Wackernheim, Ober Olmer Wald, Klein Winternheim, Ebersheim, Mommenheim, and Selzen.

In the XX Corps area, the 94^th Division gains up to 23 miles, with elements of the 2^nd Battalion, of the 302^nd Infantry, reaching Dirmstein, east of Gruenstadt.

The US Seventh Army breaks through West Wall fortifications in the XXI Corps and XV Corps zones.

In the XV Corps area, the 45^th and 3^rd Divisions break through West Wall defenses, in their respective zones.

The 42^nd Division is virtually halted by the effective enemy defense of West Wall positions, on VI Corps’ left flank.

Eastern Europe

Troops of the First White Russian Front overrun Alt Damm, in Pomerania, and eliminate the last German bridgehead across the Oder River, opposite Stettin.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 760 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escort, to hit the Korneuburg and Kagran oil refineries, the marshalling yards at Wels, Sankt Polten, Amstetten, Wiener-Neustadt, and Klagenfurt, and the tank works at Steyr.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers fly numerous ground support missions and hit targets at Balete Pass, Bayombong, Tuguegarao, Antamok, San Fernando, Bontoc and along roads. B-24s pound the supply and personnel area east of Cebu City and north of Mambaling on Cebu Island, defensive positions northwest of Talisay and anti-aircraft guns to the north, and also bomb Talisay, on Negros Island. Other B-24s bomb the town of Tainan, on Formosa. B-25s, on a shipping sweep, sink three small vessels near Qui Nhon, in French Indochina.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, a 33^rd Division Task Force moves north, toward San Fernando, from the Bauang sector, in an attempt to link up with guerrilla forces of northern Luzon. The Japanese withdraw from San Fernando, under cover of darkness.

In the XI Corps area, the 6^th Division gains several hundred yards, reaching the heights commanding the Bosoboso River, and pauses to mop-up and reconnoiter.

In the US Eighth Army area, X Corps is designated as VICTOR V Task Force to seize the Malabang-Parang-Cotabato area, of Mindanao, and clear the region east of the Zamboanga Peninsula. On Panay, elements of the 185^th Infantry drive quickly through Molo, to Iloilo, which is secured with ease. Organized resistance on Panay has collapsed. The Japanese groups withdrawing toward the mountains, from Jaro, are intercepted by the 40^th Reconnaissance Troop and the 3^rd Battalion, and harassed by aircraft. A search of the island continues.

Central Pacific Area

On Iwo Jima, Regimental Combat Team 26, of the 5^th Marine Division, pushes slowly northwest, toward the sea, along a draw that crosses in front of Regimental Combat Team 28. Regimental Combat Team 28 continues to support the attack with fire and begins a gradual withdrawal of elements from the battle line, as the attack progresses across its front. US Navy transports with Regimental Combat Team 147, the garrison force, arrive off the island.

1,138 · March 21, 2015

Wednesday, March 21, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

American Theater

A P-63 from Walla Walla Army Airfield, Washington, intercepts a Japanese balloon near Redmond, Washington, and, after a chase that includes two refueling stops, shoots it down near Reno, Nevada.

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 901 – Preparatory air operations for the forthcoming crossing of the lower Rhine River, by Allied ground forces, begin. The crossing is scheduled for March 23. 1,408 bombers and 806 fighters, in conjunction with 9^th Air Force and RAF aircraft, attack jet fighter bases.

The RAF 150 Halifaxes, 16 Lancasters, and 12 Mosquitos fly an accurate attack on the railway yards and the surrounding town area at Rheine, while 160 Lancasters attack the railway yards at Münster and a nearby railway viaduct. Meanwhile, 133 Lancasters and six Mosquitos attack the Deutsche Vacuum oil refinery at Bremen.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 151 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos to attack the Deutsche Erdölwerke refinery, at Hamburg. Meanwhile, 131 Lancasters and 12 Mosquitos hit the benzol plant at Bochum.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 580 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to hit six communications centers and a marshalling yard east of the Rhine River, along with several casual targets, in the interdiction campaign to obstruct enemy movement.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 78^th Division concludes its drive to the Sieg River.

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the 42^nd Squadron, of the 2^nd Cavalry Group, takes Bingen and extends its positions along the Rhine River, to Frei Weinheim. The 90^th Division closes in on Mainz and clears most of its zone, west of the Rhine River. The 4^th Armored Division drives north, along the west bank of the Rhine River, with Combat Command B on the right and Combat Command A on the left, clearing the region between Worms and Oppenheim.

XX Corps gets additional elements to the Rhine River, between Worms and Mannheim, and takes up positions for an assaults on Ludwigshafen and Speyer

In the US Seventh Army’s XXI Corps area, organized resistance collapses.

In the XV Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division moves rapidly eastward, to the Rhine River.

In the VI Corps area, the 42^nd Division, renewing their attack on the West Wall, at 1900 hours, after air and artillery preparation, finds that the enemy has abandoned his first belt of pillboxes.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 660 B-24s and B-17s, with fighter escorts, to bomb a number of targets.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, organized resistance within Mandalay ceases.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s, A-20s, and fighters continue large-scale support missions, hitting a variety of targets including Japanese defenses at Lipa and Tarlac, and the towns of Naga and Camiling. In the central Philippine Islands, B-24s hit targets near Cebu City, while A-20s pound other towns on Cebu Island. B-24s bomb the Samah Airfield, on Hainan Island. B-25s, on a shipping sweep, attack and set afire a freighter, southeast of Nanao Island, in China.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, troops of 130^th Infantry (33^rd Division), link up with Filipino guerrillas of the US Army Forces in the Philippines, North Luzon, in the vicinity of San Fernando, without opposition.

In the XI Corps area, after air and artillery preparation, the 1^st Infantry, of the 6^th Division, attacks and gains 600 to 800 yards, and blocks the trail running north, from Antipolo to Wawa. A captured document indicates that the enemy is reinforcing this area. Japanese resistance to the 172^nd Infantry, of the 43^rd Division, collapses.

In the US Eighth Army area, Company B, having completed clearing Simara, joins Company C, on Romblon. By this time, 118 Japanese have been killed on Simara, for US losses of 10 killed. From Panay, a 2^nd Battalion amphibious patrol (160^th Infantry), lands on Guimaras Island and searches it, uneventfully.

1,138 · March 22, 2015

Thursday, March 22, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 906 – In preparation for the lower Rhine River crossing by Allied, 1,331bombers and 662 fighters attack barracks and military encampments in the Ruhr and airfields in Germany.

The RAF dispatches 227 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos to the railway yards at Hildesheim. Meanwhile, 106 Halifaxes, 12 Lancasters, and 12 Mosquitos attack Dülmen, and 100 Halifaxes, 12 Lancasters, and 12 Mosquitos bomb Dorsten, hitting a rail and canal centre and a Luftwaffe fuel dump. Elsewhere, 100 Lancasters fly a Gee-H attack on the town of Bocholt, and 102 Lancasters attack bridges at Bremen and Nienburg.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches nearly 800 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to bomb nine communications centers and a marshalling yard east of the Rhine River, plus seven towns, flak positions, and a target of opportunity, as part of the interdiction program to impede the movement of enemy supplies and troops.

In the US First Army area, during the night, III Corps begins limited attacks across the Wied River, surprising the enemy, who offers little opposition.

V Corps, attacking southeast, with Regimental Combat Team 38, of the 2^nd Division, and Combat Command B, of the 9^th Armored Division, abreast, clears the region between the Rhine and Wied rivers and secures a bridgehead across the Wied River.

In the US Third Army area, XII Corps completes their drive to the Rhine River and begins an assault crossing.

In the XX Corps area, the 12^th Armored Division attacks to secure the bridge across the Rhine River, in the vicinity of Speyer or Germersheim.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 42^nd Division finds that the enemy has abandoned West Wall positions, within its sector, and pushes forward with ease, through Dahn.

Eastern Europe

Troops of Third White Russian Front continue the reduction of a German pocket in East Prussia.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 680 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escort from the 8^th Air Force and the 15^th Air Force, to hit oil refineries at Ruhland, Germany, and Kralupy and Vltava, Czechoslovakia

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 45 – 78 B-29s, operating in two waves, blast storage dumps at Rangoon, Burma.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Cebu Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s and A-20s, along with US Marine Corps aircraft, hit Cebu City, defenses at several locations on Cebu, and nearby targets on Inampulugan Island. On Luzon Island, B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and fighters continue to hit numerous objectives, chiefly Balete Pass, Tangadon, San Fernando, and the Batangas areas. On Formosa, other B-24s hit the Tainan and Okayama airfields, destroying several hangars, planes, and gun positions.

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 1^st Battalion, of the 20^th Infantry (6^th Division), begins an attack toward a wooded area about 600 yards ahead. The 1^st Infantry patrols and mops-up. Company B, of the 103^rd Infantry (43^rd Division), driving up the Bosoboso River Valley, takes Mt. Balidbiran and is joined there by Company C. The 3^rd Battalion, of the 103^rd Infantry, mops-up on Mt. Tanauan.

In the Netherland East Indies, the Japanese make the last of a prolonged series of air attacks against Morotai.

Central Pacific Area

On Iwo Jima, assisted by flame-throwing tanks, Regimental Combat Team 26, of the 5^th Marine Division, continues their tortuous advance northwest, toward the sea, while Regimental Combat Team 28 conducts a holding action along the southern perimeter of the pocket and supports the assault with fire.

1,138 · March 23, 2015

Friday, March 23, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 908 – The Allied ground assault across the lower Rhine River begins, as 1,276 bombers and 499 fighters visually attack rail targets in western and central Germany.

The RAF sends 128 Lancasters to attack bridges at Bremen and Bad Oeynhausen.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 195 Lancasters and 23 Mosquitos on the last raid on Wesel.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of 800 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s to attack seven communications centers, a factory, and targets of opportunity, including several flak positions.

The 21^st Army Group begins Operation PLUNDER, the assault across the Rhine River, north of the Ruhr River, at 2100 hours, after strong air and artillery preparation.

In the British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, after intense artillery preparation, the 51^st Division leads the assault, crossing the Rhine River, near Rees, at 2100 hours, and heads for Rees.

In the XII Corps area, the 1^st Commando Brigade crosses the Rhine River, northwest of Wesel, at 2200 hours, and begins an assault on that city. British Commandos capture Wesel in the early hours, just after a RAF Bomber Command raid left the defenders dead or too dazed to fight.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, jumping off at 2000 hours, the 18^th Infantry takes Wellesburg, before midnight. With two battalions of the 415^th Infantry on the left and a battalion of the 413^th Infantry on the right, the 104^th Division begins limited attacks to the east, at 2100 hours, gaining 400 to 1,000 yards and overrunning an airfield east of Eudenbach.

In the III Corps area, the 9^th and 99^th Divisions expand the bridgehead east of the Wied River. The 60^th Infantry, of the 9^th Division, clears Strauscheid, Rahm, Weissenfels, Neschen, and several small villages between the Wied River and the autobahn.

V Corps expands the bridgehead east of the Wied River. Regimental Combat Team 38, of the 2^nd Division, clears Wolfenacker, Ehlscheid, Rengsdorf, Melsbach, and Altwied.

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the 5^th Division gets four regiments and supporting weapons across the Rhine River and establishes a firm bridgehead eight miles wide and five miles deep.

In the XX Corps area, after heavy artillery preparation, the 94^th Division’s Task Force Cheadle renews their attack on Ludwigshafen, clearing the suburbs and entering the city proper late in the day. Since the Rhine bridge at Speyer is out, the 12^th Armored Division’s Combat Command R attempts to establish a bridgehead at Germersheim, thrusting south through Geinsheim and Friesbach to ***************, where stiff resistance is overcome with the aid of air support.

Eastern Europe

Troops of the Second White Russian Front reach the Gulf of Danzig, between Danzig and Gdynia, splitting German defenders of these port cities.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 658 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escort, to attack oil refineries at Ruhland, Germany, and at Vienna, Austria, marshalling yards at Budejovice, Czechoslovakia, and Gmund, Sankt Polten and Sankt Valentin, in Austria, and a tank works at Sankt Valentin, plus scattered targets of opportunity.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the US Sixth Army area, the 5^th Air Force begins series of attacks on the Legaspi area, in preparation for an amphibious assault there.

1,138 · March 24, 2015

Saturday, March 24, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 911 – In conjunction with the allied ground forces assault across the lower Rhine River, Operation VARSITY, the 8^th Air Force flies bombing, supply, and armed reconnaissance missions. During the day, 1,749 bomber sorties and 1,375 fighter sorties are flown to attack airfields in western and northwestern Germany, in the morning and afternoon, and drop supplies to US and British troops, at midday.

The RAF sends 155 Halifaxes, 16 Lancasters, and six Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Sterkrade. Meanwhile, 153 Halifaxes, 16 Lancasters, and six Mosquitos attack Gladbeck, situated on the northern edge of the Ruhr Valley, and not far from the new battle area. In other action, 173 Lancasters and 12 Mosquitos attack the Harpenerweg plant, at Dortmund, and the Mathias Stinnes plant, at Bottrop.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of almost 700 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to attack communications centers, rail bridges, flak positions, and numerous other targets, in cooperation with the combined land-airborne assault across the Rhine River, Operation PLUNDER and Operation VARSITY.

The IX Troop Carrier Command sends over 2,000 transports and gliders to drop and land the British 6^th Airborne and US 17^th Airborne Divisions, plus artillery, vehicles, ammunition, and other supplies, east of the Rhine River, north and northwest of Wesel.

In the British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the 1^st Commando Brigade clears a large part of Wesel in street-to-street fighting. The 15^th Division, which is to make XXII Corps’ main effort, crosses the Rhine, north of Xanten, starting at 0200 hours, and overruns Mehr and Haffen.

XVIII Corps (Airborne), of the First Allied Airborne Army, under operational control of the British Second Army, drops two airborne divisions, the British 6^th Airborne and the US 17^th Airborne, east of the Rhine River, in the region north and northwest of Wesel, starting at about 1000 hours. Airdrops of troops and a day’s supplies are successfully executed. Resupply by air is not required. Both assault divisions take their initial objectives, reaching the Issel River and securing crossings, and make contact with each other and with British XXII Corps

The US Ninth Army begins their assault across the Rhine River after an hour of intensive artillery preparation. XVI Corps leads off at 0200 hours, when the 30^th Division, with the 119^th, 117^th, and 120^th Regiments, abreast from north to south, starts across in the Buderich-Wallach-Rheinberg region. To the south, the 79^th Division, employing the 315^th and 313^th Regiments abreast, begins crossing at 0300 hours, after a similar artillery preparation. The 314^th Infantry crosses later in day. By the end of the day, 19 battalions of infantry and several of supporting weapons are east of the Rhine and a bridgehead is established with the minimum of casualties.

In the US First Army area, VII Corps, continuing limited attacks in the zones of the 1^st and 104^th Divisions, expands their bridgehead to an assigned line of departure for a breakout assault. Though the enemy contests every inch gained and makes frequent and determined counterattacks, the 1^st Division, with effective air support, expands the northern perimeter of bridgehead, fighting into the night.

In the V Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 38, of the 2^nd Division, expands its Wied bridgehead several more miles and clears Gladbach and Ober Bieber.

In the US Third Army area, XII Corps expands and strengthens its Rhine bridgehead and commits armor through it, in an effort to break through to the Main River. The enemy reacts more strongly and makes futile attempts to destroy bridges by air. The 5^th Division enlarges its bridgehead to include Bauschheim, Nauheim, Gross Gerau, Dornberg, and Dornheim.

In the XX Corps area, after a nightlong fight, Ludwigshafen falls to the 94^th Division in the morning, when the northern and southern assault forces meet in the center of the city.

Eastern Europe

Moscow announces that troops of the Third Ukrainian Front, on the offensive southwest of Budapest, have advanced about 44 miles on a broad front and captured numerous towns.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 660 B-24s and B-17s to bomb a tank factory at Berlin and airfields at Munich and Neuburg an der Donau, in Germany, plus the marshalling yard at Budejovice, Czechoslovakia, and alternate targets and targets of opportunity, including airfields at Plattling and Erding, in Germany and Udine, in Italy.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s and A-20s pound Cebu City and defenses and installations on Cebu Island. On Luzon Island, B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and P-38s attack Balete Pass, Legaspi, the Batangas area, and scattered targets throughout Luzon. On Formosa, B-24s hit the harbor at Takao and power plant and alcohol factory east of Okayama.

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 1^st Battalion, of the 20^th Infantry (6^th Division), tries in vain to reach a knoll about 500 yards to the east. The 1^st Infantry finishes clearing its zone, with the capture of a ridge overlooking the Bosoboso River.

In the XIV Corps area, the 1^st Cavalry Division and the 11^th Airborne Division begin converging drives on Lipa, in areas to the north and south of Lake Taal, respectively. The 1^st Cavalry Division, on the north, takes Santo Tomas, with ease.

In the US Eighth Army area, on Mindanao, the 162^nd Infantry, of the 41^st Division, reinforced by the 1^st Battalion, of the 186^th Infantry, attacks Mt. Capisan and secures it. The entire Sinonog River area is now cleared of organized resistance.

Central Pacific Area

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 46 – During the night, 248 B-29s, from the Mariana Islands, attack the Mitsubishi aircraft engine plant at Nagoya, Japan, while three other B-29s hit alternate targets. Five B-29s are lost.

On Iwo Jima, Regimental Combat Team 28, of the 5^th Marine Division, takes on the responsibility for completing the reduction of the final resistance on Iwo Jima. The enemy pocket is confined to an area 50 yards square on the coast. General Kuribayashi is reported to be alive and holding out in a cave, but his hiding place is never discovered.

1,138 · March 25, 2015

Sunday, March 25, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 913 – 1,009 bombers and 341 fighters are dispatched to hit seven oil plants and a tank factory in Germany

During the day, RAF Bomber Command operations are directed to towns on the main reinforcement routes into the Rhine battle area. Hannover is attack by 267 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos. 151 Halifaxes, 14 Lancasters, and 10 Mosquitos raid Münster. 132 Halifaxes, 14 Lancasters, and 10 Mosquitos are sent to Osnabrück.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, the 51^st Division clears Rees, except for a small pocket.

In the XXII Corps area, the 15^th Division overruns Bislich.

In the US XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, jumping off at 1500 hours, with 194^th Glider Infantry on the north and the 507^th Parachute Infantry on the south, the 17^th Airborne Division crosses the Issel Canal and drives to Phase Line LONDON, some 3,000 yards east of Wesel.

In the US Ninth Army’s XVI Corps area, the 30^th Division, continuing their assault east of the Rhine, during the night and into March 25, gains about four miles, all along its front. The 79^th Division pushes about two miles eastward. The 15^th Squadron, of the 15^th Cavalry Group, crosses the Rhine River, to relieve the 30^th Division on an island south of Wesel, between the Lippe River and the Lippe Canal. Resistance is gradually stiffening.

In the US First Army area, VII Corps opens a coordinated assault to break out of the bridgehead, at 0400 hours, as the 3^rd Armored Division, reinforced by the 414^th Infantry, of the 104^th Division, passes through the 1^st and 104^th Divisions, to spearhead the drive on Altenkirchen, their initial objective. The 3^rd Armored Division attacks with Combat Command Boudinot on the left and Combat Command Hickey on the right, and gets about half way to Altenkirchen, in a six to nine mile advance. On the left, Task Force Welborn, of Combat Command Boudinot, pushing through Uckerath and Kircheib, reaches positions near Hasselbach. Task Force Lovelady advances through Griesenbach to Fiersbach. On the right, Combat Command Hickey’s Task Force Kane thrusts past Limbach, Sessenheim, and Kescheid, to Ahl Creek, while Task Force Doan drives to the Flammersfeld area, via Asbach and Schoneberg. The 104^th Division follows armor closely, gaining up to five miles.

III Corps joins in the First Army’s large-scale offensive, making rapid progress eastward. Speeding about three miles east, with the 395^th and 393^rd Regiments, the 99^th Division cuts the autobahn near Willroth and takes a number of towns and villages to the right.

In the V Corps area, the 23^rd Infantry drives east about four miles and is itself passed through by the 9^th Armored Division, which continues east to Grenzhausen.

In the US Third Army area, around midnight VIII Corps begins an attack across the Rhine River. The 87^th Division crosses in the Braubach–Boppard region and establishes a bridgehead against firm opposition, particularly on the left, where a determined counterattack develops and is contained.

In the XII Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division begins a drive toward the Main River, at Frankfurt, crossing the Rhine River, at Oppenheim, and passing through the 5^th Division. The 4^th Armored Division breaks through to the Main River, near Hanau and Aschaffenburg, and establishes bridgeheads. The 5^th Division’s Regimental Combat Team 2 clears to southern bank of the Main River, within its zone. Driving northeast toward the Main River, between Frankfurt and Hanau, with the 359^th Infantry on the left and 358^th Infantry on the right, the 90^th Division cuts the autobahn and gets forward elements, of both regiments, to Langen.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 650 B-17s and B-24s to bomb two airfields and a tank works at Prague and an airfield at Cheb, in Czechoslovakia.

China Theater

In China, 14^th Air Force personnel withdraw from the Laohokon Airfield after destroying installations.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Cebu City. on Cebu Island. is thoroughly pounded by nearly 70 B-24s, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF). On Luzon Island, other B-24s hit Legaspi, and B-25s and fighter-bombers fly numerous ground support missions, especially between Montalban and Laguna de Bay. Other B-25s attack Pandanan Island, in the Philippine Islands.

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, one 1^st Cavalry Division column pushes from Santo Tomas toward Tanauan, while another drives into Los Banos with ease.

Central Pacific Area

On Iwo Jima, Regimental Combat Team 28, of the 5^th Marine Division, completes the reduction of the final pocket of resistance, during the morning.

In the Ryukyu Islands, pre-invasion aerial and naval bombardment continues. However, mine-sweeping operations prevent naval surface vessels from moving up to be within an effective range of Okinawa. Underwater demolition teams go into action.

1,138 · March 26, 2015

Monday, March 26, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 915 – 337 B-17s and 527 P-51s are dispatched to attack oil and tank plants in Germany.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of about 300 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s to attack marshalling yards at Wurzburg, Gemunden, and Flieden, the town of Ruckers, and two targets of opportunity.

In the British Second Army area, XXX Corps expands its bridgehead toward the Issel River.

In the XXII Corps area, the 15^th Division reaches the Issel River, at Ringenberg and is passed through by the 53^rd Division, reinforced by the 4^th Armored Brigade.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the British 6^th Airborne and the US 17^th Airborne Divisions drive east, abreast, against progressively weakening resistance, to their next phase line, NEW YORK, extending from Ringenberg on the north to the Lippe River, near Krudenberg, on the south.

In the US Ninth Army’s XVI Corps area, the 30^th Division expands their bridgehead another four miles east, though resistance is strong and wooded terrain difficult, and, in the north, partly clears Gahlen.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, Task Force’s Kane and Task Force Doan, both from Combat Command Hickey, on the 3^rd Armored Division’s right, break through enemy defenses and drive through Altenkirchen to Hachenburg and Wahlrod. On the left, however, stubborn opposition makes progress of Combat Command Boudinot so slow and costly, despite close air and ground cooperation, that their attack is broken off in the afternoon. The 104^th Division eliminates scattered resistance, while advancing some 12 miles east, behind armor.

III Corps drives armored spearheads through the infantry in pursuit of a disorganized enemy. The 7^th Armored Division, jumping off at 0200 hours, in the center of III Corps, thrusts toward the Lahn River and Limburg. Combat Command R attacks from Vettelschoss, Task Force Griffin, moving steadily east to Ailertchen, and Task Force Brown, after bypassing resistance and rubble at Dierdorf, advancing so rapidly to two of its objectives, Obertiefenbach and Heckholzhausen, that it overtakes the retreating enemy and inflicts severe losses.

In the V Corps area, the 2^nd Division continues their attacks, with the 9^th and 23^rd Regiments, taking Alsbach, Hilgert, Baumbach, Ransbach, and defensive positions on V Corps’ northern flank.

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps expands and strengthens its Rhine bridgehead. At 0200 hours, the 89^th Division starts across the Rhine River, in the Wellmich– Oberwesel region, under intense fire.

In the XII Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division reaches the southern bank of the Main River, at Frankfurt, and, under intense artillery fire, forces a crossing into Frankfurt. Combat Command A drives to Sachsenhausen and enters Frankfurt, via a damaged bridge at Niederrad. The 5^th, 90^th, and 26^th Divisions move rapidly toward the Main River, in the wake of armor, with forward elements of each, reaching the river line.

The US Seventh Army Command Post closes at Sarreguemines and opens at Kaiserslautern. XV Corps begins an assault across the Rhine River, with the 45^th and 3^rd Divisions, at 0230 hours, after a saturation bombardment of the far shore, in the 3^rd Division’s zone. Opposition to the crossing is at first strong, resulting in the loss of many landing craft, but soon eases.

Eastern Europe

The Second White Russian Front continues to fight for the ports of Danzig and Gdynia.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 500 B-17s and B-24s, escorted by P-51s and P-38s, to attack marshalling yards at Wiener-Neustadt, Strasshof, Bruck an der Leitha, and Neunkirchen, Austria, Bratislava, in Czechoslovakia, and Szombathely, in Hungary.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers attack Legaspi and targets in the area, including a fuel dump at Camalig. B-24s and A-20s, in the central Philippine Islands, hit Cebu City and east coast targets on Cebu Island. More B-24s hit Takao, Formosa.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 1^st Battalion, of the 161^st Infantry (25^th Division), begins the final assault on Norton’s Knob, on Highway 5, after Japanese positions there have been heavily bombarded.

In the XIV Corps area, the 187^th Infantry renews its attack toward Mt. Macolod, but makes little headway against strong opposition.

In the US Eighth Army area, the American Division, less Regimental Combat Team 164, lands the 1^st and 3^rd Battalions, of the 182^nd Infantry, and the 1^st Battalion, of the 132^nd Infantry, abreast, on Cebu, near Talisay, after an hour of naval gunfire bombardment. Enemy opposition consists of scattered fire, but a mine field disables eight landing vehicles and delays inward movement.

Central Pacific Area

On Iwo Jima, the enemy makes a final attack in the early morning. 200 or more attempt to infiltrate a bivouac area. At least 196 are killed. The capture and occupation phase of the Iwo Jima operation ends at 0800 hours, when General Chaney assumes the title of Island Commander, and the Commander Forward Area takes responsibility for the defense and development of Iwo Jima.

In the Ryukyu Islands, the invasion stage of Operation ICEBERG starts with preliminary landings by the 77th Division, reinforced, in the Kerama Islands, to secure a seaplane base and fleet anchorages, in preparation for the main invasion of Okinawa. Enemy air reaction to the invasion is light, consisting largely of uncoordinated attacks on shipping by suicide planes. Air and long-range naval, gunfire bombardment of Okinawa continues.

The British carrier task force, Task Force 57, begins neutralization of the Sakishima Islands.

1,138 · March 27, 2015

Tuesday, March 27, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

The RAF sends 268 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos to attack Paderborn, where American troops were attempting to complete the encirclement of the Ruhr. 150 Lancasters fly Gee-H raids on two benzol plants in the Hamm area. 115 Lancasters attack an oil-storage depot and a U-boat shelter at Farge, on the River Weser, north of Bremen.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, Raesfeld falls to the 7^th Armoured Division.

XVIII Corps (Airborne) advances rapidly through the Wesel Forest and gains up to 9,000 yards. The British 6^th Airborne Division reaches Phase Line PARIS, by daybreak, and upon order to exploit their gains, continues east to Erle.

In the US Ninth Army’s XVI Corps area, the 119^th Infantry, of the 30^th Division, completes the capture of Gahlen and continues east. The 35^th Division, with the 134^th Infantry on the left and 137^th Infantry on the right, attacks between the 30^th and 79^th Divisions, from positions near Kirchhellen, and gains several hundred yards before encountering stiff resistance. The 79^th Division presses slowly southward, toward the Ruhr River, clearing Schmachtendorf, Wehofen, and Sterkrade Holten.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division’s Combat Command Hickey makes a spectacular dash to the Dill River, at Herborn and Burg, and secures the crossings.

In the III Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division drives northeast to the Dill River, between Herborn and Wetzlar, against scattered resistance.

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps continues to enlarge and strengthen its Rhine bridgehead. The 89^th Division crosses the last of its combat elements over the Rhine River and expands the bridgehead toward Wiesbaden.

In the XII Corps area, the 5^th Division takes over the Frankfurt bridgehead and finishes crossing the 2^nd and 3^rd Battalions, of the 10^th Infantry, and the attached 3^rd Battalion, of the 11^th Infantry, into the city, which it is methodically clearing.

In the US Seventh Army area, XV Corps pursues the enemy toward the Main River. The 45^th Division, with three regiments abreast, speeds northeast some 16 miles, and patrols to the Main River.

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Second White Russian Front break into Danzig and Gdynia, and street fighting ensues.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon) 5th Air Force 13^th Air Force

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers bomb Legaspi, the Balete area, the Ipo-Siniloan sector, the Batangas area, and several other locations throughout Luzon. Fighters support the US amphibious landings on Caballo Island, in Manila Bay. In the central Philippine area, B-24s bomb Negros Island airfields, while B-25s and P-38s hit the Cebu City area, on Cebu Island. Other B-25s bomb Kinsui, Formosa, and B-24s lightly attack Sandakan, Borneo.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 129^th Infantry (37^th Division), relieves the 3^rd Battalion, of the 130^th Infantry (33^rd Division), in the Naguilian area, and seizes Burgos. The 128^th Infantry, of the 32^nd Division, opens the battle for the Salacsac Pass No. 2, on the Villa Verde Trail. Troops of the 161^st Infantry, of the 25^th Division, complete the capture of Norton’s Knob and hold it against a nighttime counterattack.

In the XI Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 151^st Infantry (38^th Division), in a shore-to-shore move from Corregidor, lands on Caballo and begins clearing the island, which Japanese are garrisoning with a well-entrenched force of about 400.

In the US Eighth Army area, only light resistance is met as the Japanese withdraw from Cebu City, to strong hill positions commanding it. Americal Division forces seize Cebu City and continue forward. Elements of the 182^nd Infantry secure the reservoir area and turn it over to guerrillas. Company G, of the 132^nd Infantry, lands on Cavit Island, in Cebu Harbor, and searches uneventfully for enemy troops.

Central Pacific Area

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 47 – 165 B-29s, based in the Mariana Islands, flying the first of many raids in support of the impending Okinawa Island invasion, hit the Tachiarai Army Airfield, the Oita Naval Airfield and the Omura aircraft factory, on Kyushu Island, Japan. The bombers shoot down one Japanese aircraft.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 48 – During the night, in the first of many mining operations by B-29s in Japanese waters, 102 B-29s mine the Shimonoseki Strait, between Honshu and Kyushu islands, and bomb alternate targets. The bombers shoot down one Japanese aircraft. Three B-29s are lost.

In the Kerama Islands, on Zamami Island, Boat Landing Team 1, of Regimental Combat Team 305, patrols actively and locates one organized enemy position. Boat Landing Team 3, of Regimental Combat Team 305, disperses a force of 75 Japanese on Aka Island. Regimental Combat Team 306 lands on Tokashiki Island, with Boat Landing Teams 1 and 2 pushing northward abreast, and slowed by difficult terrain. Boat Landing Team 3, initially in reserve, lands to clear the southern part of the island and patrols to the southern tip. Kuba Island is taken without opposition by Company G, of Regimental Combat Team 307. Amuro Island is taken without opposition by Company B, of Regimental Combat Team 305.

1,138 · March 28, 2015

Wednesday, March 28, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 917 – 965 B-17s and 390 P-51s are dispatched to hit industrial targets in Berlin and Hannover.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches 215 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s to attack the Neuenheerse and Erbach oil storage depots and 11 targets of opportunity.

The British Second Army, on the right, breaks out of their bridgehead and begins a drive to the Elbe.

In the US Ninth Army’s XVI Corps area, the 8^th Armored Division attacks through the 30^th Division, with Combat Command A and Combat Command R, pushing toward Dorsten.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, Combat Command Boudinot, of the 3^rd Armored Division, attacking through Combat Command Hickey, drives east, practically unopposed, with Task Force Lovelady reaching the Lahn River and seizing Marburg, and Task Force Welborn halting at Runzhausen. The 1^st Division clears Breitscheidt and drives the enemy east of Biersdorf and Daaden, while the 104^th Division advances east 10 miles, behind armor.

In the III Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division, jumping off shortly after midnight from the Dill River line, drives northeast to the Lahn River and secures crossings between Marburg and Giessen, and communications centers east of the Lahn River. The 7th Armored Division gains all of its objectives and is directed to assemble in the Marburg area, to continue their attack to the north. The 9^th Division speeds east to the west bank of the Lahn River, in the Niederwalgern–Odenhausen region.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division makes substantial progress, despite congested roads at the boundary of the First and Third Armies. From the Nastatten area, the 76^th Division drives rapidly eastward, with the 385^th Infantry on the left and the 417^th Infantry on the right, toward Kamberg and Idstein and, ultimately, Usingen. The 89^th Division moves southeast, against spotty resistance.

XX Corps begins an assault northeast, across the Rhine River. The 80^th Division attacks simultaneously across the Rhine and Main rivers, at 0100 hours. The 317^th Infantry leads the assault across the Rhine River, at Mainz, and is followed by the 318^th Infantry. The 319^th Infantry crosses the Main River, in the Bischofsheim area. Opposition is moderate and by end of day, the 80^th Division holds a firm bridgehead in the Mainz area.

XII Corps begins breakout attacks across Main River. The 90^th Division starts across in assault boats, in the Doernigheim area, at 0300 hours, and by noon holds a firm bridgehead for debouchment of armor, despite stiff local resistance on the left. The assault regiments, with the 357^th Infantry on the left and 358^th Infantry on the right, clear a five to six mile bridgehead. A footbridge and a ferry are completed during morning and the entire 90^th Division and supporting weapons are across by the end of the day. The 6^th Armored Division starts crossing into the 90^th Division’s bridgehead, in the early afternoon, and drives rapidly north, against scattered resistance. Meanwhile, on XII Corps right, the 4^th Armored Division crosses a treadway bridge at Grossauheim, in single column, starting at 0300 hours, and drives north, with Combat Command A on the right, Combat Command B on the left, and Combat Command R to the rear, prepared to assist either of the other columns. On the Main River line, the 5^th Division continues to fight for Frankfurt, crossing Regimental Combat Team 2, the 1^st Battalion, of Regimental Combat Team 10, and the 2^nd Battalion, of Regimental Combat Team 11, into the city and clearing most of it. The 1st Battalion, of Regimental Combat Team 11, takes the portion of Frankfurt, south of the Main River.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 45^th Division reaches the Main River, near Obernau, and establishes a bridgehead across the river. The 3^rd Division speeds toward the Main River, to the south, and is passed through on its right flank by the 12^th Armored Division. The 44^th Division drives south, along the Rhine River, and across the Neckar River, toward Mannheim and Heidelberg. The Burgomaster of Mannheim tries unsuccessfully to arrange for the surrender of the city.

XXI Corps begins crossing the Rhine River, to operate in the region south of XV Corps.

General Eisenhower alters the direction and plan of the final Allied drive. The objective is changed from Berlin, toward which Soviet forces are rapidly moving, to Leipzig. The 12^th Army Group, rather than the 21^st Army Group, is to make main effort.

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Second White Russian Front capture the naval base of Gdynia and clear the western part of Danzig.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 46 – During the night, 10 B-29s mine the mouth of the Hwangpoo River and the south channel of the Yangtze River, at Shanghai, China.

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 47 – During the night, 18 B-29s mine the waters at Saigon and Camranh Bay, in French Indochina.

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 48 – During the night, 33 B-29s mine the Singapore area, in the Malayan States.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The Burma Defense Army, renamed the Burma National Army, rises in revolt against the Japanese, in central and southern Burma.

In the British Fourteenth Army’s IV Corps area, the Japanese begin withdrawing from Meiktila sector, during the night.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s and fighter-bombers hit Balete Pass tracts and ridges, installations at Santa Fe, and ground support targets, north of Laguna de Bay and in Cavite and Batangas Provinces, and B-25s and A-20s attack troop concentrations at Baguio and Ilagan.

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 1^st Battalion, of the 1^st Infantry (6^th Division), drives 600 yards north, from the Mt. Baytangan area. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 20^th Infantry, attacks toward Mt. Mataba, gaining a ridge position. The 3^rd Battalion also joins in the attack, but progress is slow.

In the US Eighth Army area, on Cebu, the 182^nd Infantry, in a two-pronged assault by the 2^nd and 3^rd Battalions, seizes the Lahug Airfield. 32 pillboxes are destroyed on Guadalupe Road, east of Go Chan. Company E, of the 132^nd Infantry, secures Mactan Island and the Opon Airfield, without opposition.

In the Kerama Islands, Boat Landing Team 3, of Regimental Combat Team 305, meets no further opposition on Aka Island. Other elements of Regimental Combat Team 305 are eliminating the enemy position on Zamami Island. Regimental Combat Team 306 seizes town of Tokashiki, on Tokashiki Island.

1,138 · March 29, 2015

Thursday, March 29, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s Canadian II Corps area, the Canadian 3^rd Division continues clearing Emmerich, against strong resistance. Netterden falls to the Canadian 2^nd Division.

In the XXII Corps area, the 7^th Armoured Division drives on the Rheine River, passing through Sudlohn and Stadtlohn.

VIII Corps attacks to exploit the breakthrough on the Second Army’s right flank, employing the 11^th Armoured Division on the left and the 6^th Airborne Division on the right, and makes rapid progress toward Osnabrueck.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 6^th Guards Armoured Brigade, relieved in Haltern before dawn by motorized elements of the US 17^th Airborne Division, proceeds to Duelmen and, from there, starts toward Buldern.

In the US Ninth Army’s XVI Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 8^th Armored Division, clears the southwestern part of Dorsten, as elements push east, toward Marl and Polsum.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division, swerving north from Marburg, pursues the disorganized enemy about 50 miles north, toward Paderborn.

In the III Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division begins a drive north, for the Edersee dam and crossings of Eder River

V Corps shifts its attack from the east to the north, using the 9^th Armored Division to spearhead a drive toward Eder River.

In the US Third Army’s XX Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division, with Combat Commands A, B, and 86 in assault, rolls northward, astride the autobahn practically unopposed, reaching their objective northeast of Steinbach, in the region east of Giessen.

In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Armored Division drives rapidly east, as Combat Command B captures Lauterbach, its objective, and Combat Command A, moving through Ulrichstein and Herbstein, takes Grossenlueder

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 45^th Division runs into firm opposition for the first time, east of the Rhine, as it attempts to expand the Main bridgehead. The 44^th Division moves into Mannheim, from which the German garrison has withdrawn.

Eastern Europe

Troops of the Third White Russian Front mop-up remnants of encircled enemy groups, southwest of Koenigsberg, in East Prussia.

In Hungary, troops of the Third Ukrainian Front drive to the Austrian frontier, capturing Szombathely, Koeszeg, and Kapuva.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 49 – During the night, 29 B-29s bomb oil storage facilities on Bukum Island, in the Malayan States. Two other B-29s bomb individual targets on the Malay Peninsula. This is the last mission for the XX Bomber Command. All of their aircraft and personnel are relocated to the XXI Bomber Command.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s and B-25s attack Toshien, Byoritsu, and Eiko, on Formosa. On Luzon Island, B-24s bomb Camalaniugan, B-24s and P-51s hit Legaspi and the surrounding area, and A-20s and numerous fighters hit various targets in southwestern Luzon. Cebu Island is bombed by B-25s in support of ground forces, while A-20s support troops landing on Negros Island. B-24s bomb the Oelin Airfield, in Borneo.

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, elements of the 43^rd Division gain positions on Hill 1200, commanding the last enemy escape route, which runs northwest, from New Bosoboso.

In the XIV Corps area, the 8^th Cavalry, of the 1^st Cavalry Division, seizes Lipa, including its airdrome, and establishes contact with the 11^th Airborne Division. Highway 19 is now open for traffic, from Calamba to Batangas.

In the US Eighth Army area, a reinforced platoon of Company F, of the 185^th Infantry, lands at Patik, in Negros Occidental Province, on Negros Island, and secures the Bago River bridge, which is urgently needed for a drive on Bacolod, in lively action with bridge guards. The main body of the 185^th Infantry goes ashore, near Pulupandan, unopposed. Japanese explosives blow up the east spur of Go Chan, causing heavy American casualties, particularly to Company A, which is withdrawn from the battle line.

On Mindanao, organized resistance in the Zamboanga sector collapses, as the 3^rd Battalion, of the 163^rd Infantry, gains the heights near Mt. Pulungbatu, but mopping-up continues for some time.

In the Ryukyu Islands, the 77^th Division completes the capture of the Kerama Islands.

With approaches to the Okinawa landing beaches now cleared of mines, naval surface vessels move in to pound the assault area at close range.

1,138 · March 30, 2015

Friday, March 30, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 918 – 1,402 bombers and 899 fighters are dispatched to attack targets connected with U-boat construction or operation.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches 337 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s to attack the Bad Oeynhausen tank factory, the Munden ordnance depot, the Ebenhausen oil depot, two town areas, six targets of opportunity, and drop leaflets.

In the British Second Army’s Canadian II Corps area, the Canadian 3^rd Division completes the capture of Emmerich. Elten falls to the Canadian 2^nd Division.

XXX Corps breaks out of its bridgehead and heads for Lingen.

In the XXII Corps area, Winterswijk falls to the 53^rd Division.

In the VIII Corps area, after driving 14 miles northeast, the 6^th Airborne Division reaches the Ems River, at Greven, and the 11^th Armoured Division reaches the Ems River, at Ensdetten.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 16^th Guards Armoured Brigade reaches Buldern, early in the morning.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, leading elements of the 3^rd Armored Division get to within two miles of Paderborn. The 104^th Division continues to advance rapidly behind armor. The 1^st Division, with elements of three regiments in line, pushes north, to a line from Strassebersbach to Hainchen to Irmgarteichen to Gernsdorf to Rudersdorf to Rodgen, thereby gaining the heights dominating Siegen. While driving toward the front lines, 3^rd Armored Division Commanding General, Major General Maurice Rose, is fatally shot by the enemy.

In the III Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division speeds north, toward the Ederstau See and the Eder River, captures the Edersee Dam intact, and secures crossings of the Eder River. Task Force Chappuis, followed by the attached Task Force Beatty, drives to the river line, on the right, and seizes six bridges, between Hemfurth and Bergheim.

In the V Corps area, the 9^th Armored Division continues north, to the Eder River, and secures crossings. Some elements cross the 6^th Armored Division (XX Corps) bridge, at Sennern, and attack Fritzlar from the rear, while others take the airfield south of Fritzlar.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 304^th Infantry crosses the Rhine River, to protect the right flank, along the Cologne–Frankfurt Autobahn. Task Force Fickett gets elements to Butzbach, on the Giessen–Bad Nauheim highway, completing its mission. The 89^th Division reaches VIII Corps boundary, from Neuhof to Eltville, and begins mopping-up bypassed pockets.

In the XX Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division exploits a breakthrough, north of Frankfurt, pressing relentlessly toward Kassel and reaching the Eder River, in the Zenner–Wadern area, and the Fulda River, near Ober Beisheim, a little short of their objective.

In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Armored Division, turning northeast, pursues the enemy toward Hersfeld. The 11^th Armored Division completes its crossing of the Main River, near Hanau, and continues their drive toward Fulda. The 2^nd Cavalry Group finishes crossing the Main River.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 3^rd Division crosses the Main River, at Woerth, and establishes a bridgehead.

In the XXI Corps area, the 4^th Division completes its crossing of the Rhine River and advances east, through elements of the 12^th Armored Division.

Eastern Europe

Troops of the Second White Russian Front complete the capture of Danzig.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the British 36^th Division, continuing southeast from Mogok, reaches Kyaukme, where a junction is made with the Chinese 1^st Separate Regiment. This brings operations on the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) front virtually to an end, since Chiang Kai-shek has obtained Admiral Mountbatten’s promise to halt along a line from Lashio to Hsipaw to Kyaukme.

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, Kyaukse falls to the Indian 20^th Division after hard fighting.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the Balete Pass and Solvec Cove areas, while P-38s hit artillery positions in the Santa Fe area, and B-24s and A-20s hit Legaspi Port and nearby Little Batsan. A-20s and fighter-bombers continue ground support missions in the Laguna de Bay area and west of Ft. Stotsenburg. B-24s and A-20s support ground forces on Cebu Island. Other B-24s, B-25s, and P-38s hit Bongao Island, in the Philippine Islands, and the Sanga Sanga, and Kuching areas, in Borneo.

In the US Eighth Army area, the 185^th Infantry clears Bacolod with ease, as the enemy retires eastward, on Negros Island, into the mountains in the Patog-Negritos area. The 160^th Infantry, less the 2^nd Battalion, lands on Negros. On Cebu, the 182^nd Infantry clears the rest of Hill 31, destroying nine pillboxes.

In the Ryukyu Islands, reconnaissance and demolition around Okinawa proceed satisfactorily, under the protective cover of planes and naval gunfire.

1,138 · March 31, 2015

Saturday, March 31, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 920 – 1,348 bombers and 889 fighters are dispatched to hit synthetic oil plants, a refinery, munitions plant and tank factory.

The RAF dispatches 361 Lancasters, 100 Halifaxes, and Mosquitos to attack the Blohm & Voss shipyards, at Hamburg, where the new types of U-boats were being assembled.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 550 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s to hit storage depots at Ebrach, Wurzburg, and Marienburg, the marshalling yard at Wurzburg, the town area of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and a target of opportunity.

In the British Second Army area, Canadian II Corps takes the Hoch Elten feature.

In the XXII Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division, driving on the Rheine River, reaches Neuenkirchen. The 53^rd Division advances to Alstatte.

In the VIII Corps area, the 6^th Airborne and 11^th Armoured Divisions gain bridgeheads across the Ems River.

In the US Ninth Army area, XIII Corps starts crossing the Rhine River, at Wesel, with the 5^th Armored Division in the lead.

In the XVI Corps area, the 75^th Division, with the 289^th and 291^st Regiments abreast, passes through the 8^th Armored Division and attacks east, on XVI Corps’ northern flank, after a half hour of artillery preparation, gaining about four miles.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, Combat Command Howze, employing flame throwers, drives the enemy from Nordborchen and Wewer. In the Combat Command Boudinot sector, Task Force Boles, of Combat Command Doan, destroys the enemy pocket holding up Welborn’s advance and Task Force Welborn drives to Haxtergrund.

In the III Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division’s Combat Command R and Combat Command B defend newly won positions along the Eder River and are passed through by elements of V Corps.

In the V Corps area, the 9^th Armored Division establishes a bridgehead across Diemel River, in the Warburg area.

In the US Third Army area, XX Corps is slowed by an enemy defense line along the Fulda and Eder rivers. The 6^th Armored Division continues toward Kassel and establishes a small bridgehead across the Fulda River, at Malsfeld. Combat Command A, upon crossing the Eder River, on 6^th Armored Division’s left, pushes slowly toward Kassel, which is firmly held, reaching the Werkel–Nieder Vorschutz area.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, continues to clear Aschaffenburg, with close air and artillery support.

In the XXI Corps area, the 12^th Armored Division spearheads an attack toward the Wuerzburg– Schweinfurt Kitzingen region and is followed on the left by the 42^nd Division and on the right by the 4^th Division.

The French 1^st Army begins assault crossings of the Rhine River. In the French II Corps area, the 3^rd Algerian Division crosses the Rhine River, in the vicinity of Speyer, while the 2^nd Moroccan Infantry Division crosses to the right, in the Germersheim area. The Germans, taken by surprise, are unable to stem the advance, but offer heavy fire at some points.

Eastern Europe

In upper Silesia, troops of the First Ukrainian Front overrun Ratibor, and a Moravian Gap outpost. Troops of the Second Ukrainian Front take Nitra and forge the Vah River to seize Galanta, 28 miles from Bratislava.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches 540 B-24s and B-17s to bomb the Linz main railroad station and sidings, and the marshalling yards at Villach, in Austria, and Treviso, Italy, and three minor targets of opportunity.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) A-20s attack an army camp at Saiatan, P-51s sweep from Babuyan Channel to the southwest of the island and B-24s bomb harbors and shipping at Kiirun and Yulin, in China. On Luzon Island, fighters attack targets in the Cagayan Valley and north of Laguna de Bay, blasting bridges and gun positions over wide stretches. B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers hit Cebu Island targets, with several of the strikes being flown in support of ground forces.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 128^th Infantry, of the 32^nd Division, continues to battle for the Salacsac Pass No. 2, on the Villa Verde Trail, capturing one hill, but is forced from the crest of another.

In the XIV Corps area, the 12^th Cavalry, of the 1^st Cavalry Division, seizes Calauan, from which the enemy has now withdrawn.

In the Ryukyu Islands, the 420^th Field Artillery Group, and attachments, are landed on the four small islands of the Keise group, to support impending operations on Okinawa.

Central Pacific Area

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 50 – 152 B-29s strike the Tachiarai machine works, which is completely destroyed, and the Omura Airfield, on Kyushu Island, Japan. The bombers shoot down 11 Japanese aircraft. One B- 29s is lost.

1,138 · April 1, 2015

Sunday, April 1, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

The US Ninth Army effects the junction with the US First Army, at Lippstadt, sealing off the rich industrial Ruhr and trapping the whole of German Army Group B and two corps of Army Group H.

In the XIII Corps area, the 5^th Armored Division spearheads a drive toward the Weser River, bypassing Muenster, which the 17^th Airborne Division prepares to assault.

In the XIX Corps area, Combat Command B, of the 2^nd Armored Division, drives southeast, to Lippstadt, and makes contact with the 3^rd Armored Division, of VII Corps (First Army), closing the noose around the Ruhr.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, Task Force Kane, of the 3^rd Armored Division, moves quickly to Lippstadt and establishes contact with XIX Corps. Paderborn falls to the 3^rd Armored Division, in a concerted assault from the southwest, south, and southeast. The 1^st Division moves to the region southwest of Paderborn, to block enemy movement from the Ruhr pocket. The 9^th Division is also employed to block the enemy escape from the Ruhr and attacks north, northwest, and west, with three regiments.

In the US Seventh Army area, XXI Corps continues east and northeast with the 12^th Armored Division spearheading, the 42^nd Division following on the left, and the 4^th Division on the right.

VI Corps drives southeast, astride the Neckar River, against disorganized resistance and makes contact with French forces on the right flank.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 76^th Division finishes clearing its sector, concluding VIII Corps’ offensive in the current zone, west of the Frankfurt–Bad Nauheim Autobahn.

In the XX Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division drives east, from the Fulda River, leaving the 80^th Division, to which Regimental Combat Team 318 reverts, the task of clearing Kassel.

XII Corps, having outdistanced XX Corps and XV Corps, continues northeast with both flanks vulnerable, with the 4^th and 11^th Armored Divisions spearheading and the 90^th and 26^th Divisions following. The 71^st Division, assembled in reserve near Hanau with a defensive mission, moves to intercept a bypassed SS force north of Hanau.

Eastern Europe

Troops of the First Ukrainian Front complete the destruction of the German garrison of Glogau, on the Oder River, in Silesia.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of almost 400 B-24s and B-17s to bomb the railroad bridge at Maribor, in Yugoslavia, the marshalling yards at Sankt Polten, Selzthal, Zeltweg, Graz, and Villach, in Austria, the railroad bridge at Krieglach, Austria, and gun positions on the Adriatic coast, near Venice, Italy.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In the British Eighth Army area, during the night, the 2^nd Commando Brigade opens Operation ROAST, to clear the Comacchio Spit, between the lake and the sea, moving by water to the west bank of the spit.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the US Sixth Army area, the Legaspi Attack Group, Task Group 78.4, lands Regimental Combat Team 158, reinforced, in the Legaspi area, on the Bicol Peninsula, after preparatory aerial and naval bombardment. The landing is unopposed and the assault forces quickly secure Legaspi port, town, and airstrip, as well as Libog.

In the XI Corps area, the 43^rd Division turns the southern flank of the Shimbu line, as the 172^nd Infantry mops-up Hill 1200.

In the US Eighth Army area, the 185^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division drives to the outskirts of Talisay, on Negros Island. Elements of the 160^th Infantry take Granada.

Central Pacific Area

Joint Expeditionary Force, Task Force 51, commanded by Admiral Turner, lands the Tenth Army on the southwestern shore of Okinawa, in the vicinity of Hagushi, at approximately 0830 hours, following an intensive naval and aerial bombardment by supporting forces of the Fifth Fleet. The Northern Attack Force, Task Force 53, commanded by Rear Admiral Lawrence Reifsnider, puts Marines of the 6^th and 1^st Marine Divisions, of the III Amphibious Corps, ashore, north of the Bishi River, while the Southern Attack Force, Task Force 55, under the command of Rear Admiral J. L. Hall, Jr., lands the 7^th and the 96^th Divisions, of XXIV Corps, south of the river. The Japanese offer little opposition as assault units move inland to gain a beachhead of about 15,000 yards in length and 4,000 to 5,000 yards in depth.

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 6^th Marine Division, employing the 22^nd Regiment on the north and the 4^th Regiment on the south, takes the Yontan Airfield with ease.

In the XXIV Corps area, the 7^th Division moves quickly eastward, with the 17^th Infantry on the left and the 32^nd Infantry on the right, seizing the Kadena Airfield.

1,138 · April 1, 2015

Monday, April 2, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US Ninth Army’s XIII Corps area, the 17^th Airborne Division, to which Regimental Combat Team 507 reverts, envelops and enters Muenster, clearing all except the heart of the city.

In the XIX Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division continues the battle for the Teutoburger Wald passes, hampered by terrain, blown bridges, and roadblocks.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division consolidates in the Paderborn area, as elements enter Dahl, without opposition. The 413^th Infantry, of the 104^th Division, takes Rimbach. The 415^th Infantry decisively defeats another enemy counterattack, toward Medebach, and later drives west, to the eastern part of Kuestelberg.

In XVIII Corps (Airborne) V Corps area, the 9^th Armored Division maintains the Diemel bridgehead against strong opposition on the left, where Combat Command B drives off counterattacking tank-infantry forces.

In the US Third Army XX Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division completes their crossing of the Fulda River, at Malsfeld, and, with Combat Command A and Combat Command B abreast, drives toward the Werra River and its tributary, the Wehre River. The 80^th Division pushes into the outskirts of Kassel, against determined resistance and tank-infantry counterattacks. The 65^th Division attacks east across the Fulda River, on XX Corps’ right flank, with two regiments abreast.

In the XII Corps area, Combat Command B, of the 4^th Armored Division, expands its Creuzburg bridgehead, to Neukirchen.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, continues their assault on Aschaffenburg, where resistance is undiminished. The 1^st Battalion drives into the city from the northeast. The 14^th Armored Division attacks northeast, through infantry, toward Neustadt and Ostheim. The retreating enemy offers little opposition.

In the XXI Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 12^th Armored Division, patrols eastward, toward Wuerzburg, and meets no organized resistance. The 8^th Infantry, of the 4^th Division, clears the region just southwest of Wuerzburg.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of almost 600 B-24s and B-17s, with fighter escorts, to bomb communications targets in Austria, including the marshalling yards at Graz, Sankt Polten, and Krems, and a railroad bridge on the Sulm River.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s bomb railroad bridges at Fornovo di Taro, Drauburg, San Michele all' Adige, Matrei am Brenner, Steinach, and Colle Isarco, and a railroad fill at Vo Sinistro.

In the British Eighth Army’s V Corps area, the 2^nd and 9^th Commandos, of the 2^nd Commando Brigade, establish a bridgehead on the western shore of the Comacchio Spit, while the 43^rd Royal Marine Commandos clear the tongue of land between the Reno and the sea, to attack the spit from the east.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the harbor at Hong Kong. On Luzon Island, B-25s and fighter-bombers attack the Bamban bridges, the Balete Pass-Baguio area and Penablanca. Troops at Cebu City, on Cebu Island, and on Negros Island, are bombed by B-25s and fighter bombers. B-24s bomb the Sarangani Bay area, on Mindanao Island. Other B-24s hit the Sandakan shipyards and the Tawau Airfield, in Borneo. Bongao Island, in the Philippine Islands, is also hit by B-24s.

In the US Sixth Army area, in the XI Corps area, the 20^th Infantry begins a coordinated attack with the 1^st and 3^rd Battalions, after artillery preparation.

In the US Eighth Army area, the 185^th Infantry pushes into Talisay, on Negros Island, and clears the town and airfield, then continues toward Silay, halting at the Guinhalaron River, where the bridge is down. On Cebu Island, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 182^nd Infantry gains positions on the lower slopes of Bolo Ridge. In the Sulu Archipelago, the 2^nd Battalion, reinforced, of the 163^rd Infantry (41^st Division), lands unopposed, on Sanga Sanga Island, in the Tawi Tawi group, after naval and aerial bombardment of nearby Bongao Island. After securing the airfield and making contact with Filipino guerrillas, who already hold most of island, elements of the 2^nd Battalion move to Bongao Island and establish a beachhead.

The US Tenth Army rapidly continues inland on Okinawa, against light resistance. The Kadena and Yontan airfields are ready for emergency use and artillery spotting planes are flown ashore.

In the III Amphibious Corps area, the 6^th Marine Division clears the peninsula northwest of Hagushi and pushes into the foothills of Yontan–Zan. The enemy is disposed for strong defense of the ridges and hills of this mountainous region.

In the XXIV Corps area, the 7^th Division employs 184^th Infantry troops to plug the gap existing on the left flank. The 17^th Infantry reaches the heights commanding Nakagusuku Bay and patrols to the east coast, cutting the island in two.

Central Pacific Area

20th Air Force Mission 51 – 121 B-29s bomb the Nakajima aircraft factory at Tokyo, shooting down one Japanese aircraft. Six B-29s are lost.

1,138 · April 3, 2015

Tuesday, April 3, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 924 – 752 B-17s and 569 P-51s are dispatched to hit U-boat yards at Kiel

The RAF dispatches 247 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos to attack a military barracks near Nordhausen.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of about 230 B-26s, A- 20s and A-26s to attack the Holzminden and Hameln marshalling yards, the town of Gottingen, two targets of opportunity, and fly a leaflet mission..

In the US Ninth Army’s XIII Corps area, the 17^th Airborne Division completes the reduction of Muenster. The 5^th Armored Division reaches the Weser, where the bridges are down. The 84^th Division starts toward the Weser River, in the wake of the 5^th Armored Division.

XIX Corps, while continuing east into Germany, begins an attack on the Ruhr pocket.

The US First Army directs XVIII Corps (Airborne) and III Corps to attack, in conjunction with the Ninth Army, to destroy the enemy south of the Ruhr and east of the Rhine River.

In the US Third Army’s XX Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division crosses the Werra River and thrusts toward Muhlhausen. The 80^th Division continues a lively battle for Kassel, clearing part of the city. The 65^th Division advances rapidly on XX Corps’ right flank.

A XII Corps directive orders the advance to halt, along a line from Gotha to Suhl. The 90^th Division clears the Berka–Vacha sector, east of the Werra River. The 11^th Armored Division drives well into the Thuringer Wald, a German small arms manufacturing center. The 26^th Division drives toward the Werra River, to the rear of the 11^th Armored Division, with forward elements reaching Schwarzbach. The Germans, north of Hanau, are driven into the Budinger Wald and encircled, by the coordinated action of the 1^st Division, the 2^nd Cavalry Group, and XX Corps’ 5^th Division.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, Aschaffenburg surrenders to the 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, concluding a stiff battle.

In the XXI Corps area, the 222^nd Infantry, of the 42^nd Division, attached to Combat Command A, of the 12^th Armored Division, opens a frontal assault on Wuerzburg.

In the VI Corps area, Combat Command R, of the 10^th Armored Division, establishes a shallow bridgehead across the Jagst River, in the Griesheim area, north of Heilbronn, against strong resistance. The 63^rd Division runs into troublesome pockets of resistance, as it continues clearing the region north of the Jagst River, on VI Corps’ left flank.

Eastern Europe

Troops of the Second Ukrainian Front, north of the Danube, in Czechoslovakia, take the eastern suburb of Bratislava and, to the right rear, overrun Kremnica, with the aid of Rumanian troops.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

The Hong Kong docks are again bombed by Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s. Other B-24s and B-25s hit the airfield, butanol plant, and railroad yards at Kagi, in Formosa, while A-20s sweep other rail targets. On Luzon Island, fighter-bombers and A-20s hit the Balete Pass-Baguio-Naguilian area, north of the Cagayan Valley, supply targets, the Laguna de Bay area, and Infanta. They also hit, the Miri Airfield, in Borneo, troops in the Cebu City area, on Cebu Island, while targets on Tarakan Island, in Borneo, are bombed, and B-25s attack north Hainan Island.

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 169^th Infantry, with the 112^th Cavalry, forms Baldy Force, to protect XI Corps northern flank and probe toward Ipo, at the north end of the enemy’s Shimbu line. During the night, the 103^rd Infantry, of the 43^rd Division, concentrates secretly on the slopes of Mt. Sembrano and begins an advance to establish contact with the 1^st Cavalry Division.

In the XIV Corps area, the 187^th Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division, which now has a foothold on the saddle between Mt. Macolod and Bukel Hill, moves to the Lipa area, leaving the 1^st Battalion behind, to contain and maintain limited pressure on bypassed Japanese on Mt. Macolod.

In the US Eighth Army area, the 185^th Infantry, fording the Guinhalaron River, on Negros Island, advances through Silay to the Imbang River. On Cebu Island, the 1^st Battalion, of the 132^nd Infantry, finishes clearing Bolo Ridge. Enemy positions delaying the 3^rd Battalion are pounded by air. A Company, reinforced, of the 2^nd Battalion (108^th Infantry), lands on Masbate Island, at the town of Masbate, to help the guerrillas gain control of the island. On Romblon, organized enemy resistance ceases.

Central Pacific Area 7^th Air Force

20th Air Force Mission 57 – In the morning hours, 115 B-29s strike the aircraft plant at Tachikawa, and hit the urban area of Kawasaki. One B-29 and crew is lost.

US Tenth Army spotting planes start operating on Okinawa.

In the III Amphibious Corps area, the 6^th Marine Division extends control over the Yontan–Zan hill mass, in a 7,000 yard drive, and advances its left flank to the base of Ishikawa Isthmus.

XXIV Corps pivots right, to attack due south, with the 7^th Division on the east and the 96^th Division on the west.

1,138 · April 4, 2015

Wednesday, April 4, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 926 – 1,431bombers and 866 fighters are dispatched to hit airfields, a shipyard and a U-boat shipyard in Germany.

The RAF dispatches 243 Lancasters and one Mosquito, with eight Pathfinder Mosquitos, to attack the barracks and the town of Nordhausen.

During the night, the RAF sends 327 Lancasters and 14 Mosquitos to attack the synthetic-oil plant at Leuna. Meanwhile, 277 Halifaxes, 36 Lancasters, 14 Mosquitos are sent to attack the Rhenania oil plant, at Harburg. 258 Lancasters and 14 Mosquitos attack the oil refinery at Lützkendorf.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 330 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s to attack the Ebrach oil depot, the Crailsheim marshalling yard and barracks area, a Grossaspach supply depot, the town of Ellswangen, Backnang rail and road junction, and two targets of opportunity.

In the British Second Army area, XXX Corps establishes a bridgehead over the Dortmund–Ems Canal, in vicinity of Lingen. XII Corps gains a bridgehead across Dortmund–Ems Canal, in the Rheine area.

In the US Ninth Army area, forces of VIII Corps, from the British Second Army, enter Minden before the surrender of its garrison can be arranged and the Germans blow the bridges.

In the XIX Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division progresses rapidly on the left, where one Combat Command A column advances from Lage to Lemgo, and then to the approaches to the Weser River, and another clears Pivitsheide and continues to the vicinity of Gross Berkel. The 95^th Division begins an assault on the Ruhr pocket, and attacks south, across the Lippe River and the canal in the Hamm–Lippborn area, with the 379^th Infantry on the left and the 378^th Infantry on the right. The 8^th Armored Division continues their assault on the Ruhr pocket.

In the XVI Corps area, the 75^th Division attacks in strength, across the Dortmund–Ems Canal, early in morning, employing the 291^st Infantry on the left, the attached 116^th Infantry in the center, and the 289^th Infantry on the right.

In the US Third Army’s XX Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division, advancing in multiple columns with close air support, encircles Muhlhausen and sends strong patrols into the city.

VIII Corps becomes operational in a new zone, between XX Corps and XII Corps, and attacks east.

In the XII Corps area, the 90^th Division continues east, against sporadic resistance, with the 357^th Infantry taking Marksuhl and Moehra, and the 358^th Infantry seizing Merkers, where Nazi art treasures, gold, and uniforms are discovered in a salt mine. 26^th Division assault regiments reach the Werra River, in the Schmalkalden– Wasungen area, and start across it.

In the US Seventh Army area, XV Corps continues a rapid drive northeast, through the Spessart Mountains.

In the XXI Corps area, after engineers complete bridging in the Wuerzburg area, the 232^nd Infantry, of the 42^nd Division, and elements of Combat Command A, of the 12^th Armored Division, cross under a smoke screen.

VI Corps is so strongly opposed along the Neckar and Jagst rivers, as it opens an assault on Heilbronn, that it is forced to change the plan of attack.

The French 1^st Army captures Karlsruhe, in an assault by Valluy Groupement and elements of II Corps.

Eastern Europe

The important communications center of Bratislava, Czechoslovakia, falls to troops of the Second Ukrainian Front.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In the British Eighth Army’s V Corps area, the 2^nd Commando Brigade, on the Comacchio Spit, is brought to a halt by enemy on the far bank of the Canale di Valetta and is relieved, during the night, by the 56^th Division.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the Toyohara Airfield, Mako harbor, and Tokichito Island, and A-20s hit Shinchiku factories and rail yards. B-24s bomb the harbor at Hong Kong. P-38s and P-51s pound various targets in central Luzon Island, while A-20s and P- 38s hit the Calauag area. A-20s pound northwest Negros Island and B-24s bomb targets on central Mindanao Island.

In the US Sixth Army area, the 1^st Battalion of Regimental Combat Team 158, moving northward to positions northwest of Busay, attacks southward, along a ridge on the left flank, while the 2^nd and 3^rd Battalions are attacking frontally, below Daraga. Progress for the next week is very slow, since the enemy must be destroyed in detail.

In the XI Corps area, the 103^rd Infantry, less the 2^nd Battalion, of the 43^rd Division, secures Santa Maria Valley, seizing Mabitac, Sinaloan, and Famy.

In the XIV Corps area, the 5^th Cavalry, of the 1^st Cavalry Division, probing south with patrols from San Pablo, makes contact with 11^th Airborne Division forces in the Tiaong area, completing the isolation of Japanese troops on Mt. Malepunyo.

Central Pacific Area

On Okinawa, the 6^th Marine Division closes in along the base of the Ishikawa Isthmus, called the “L plus 15 line,” and starts up the isthmus.

XXIV Corps meets stiffening resistance while pressing southward toward a hill mass extending from Urasoe-Mura to Ouki.

1,138 · April 5, 2015

Thursday, April 5, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

Moscow

The USSR notifies the Japanese ambassador in Moscow that it wishes to denounce the five-year neutrality pact, signed with Japan on April 13, 1941.

Tokyo

General Koiso’s cabinet resigns and is succeeded by another under Admiral Kantaro Suzuki.

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 928 – 1,358 bombers and 662 fighters attack marshalling yards, ordnance depots, armament works and airfields in Germany.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the Canadian First Army area, Canadian II Corps establishes a bridgehead across Twenthe Canal, in the region east of the Ijssel River, and clears Almelo.

In the British Second Army area, VIII Corps clears the rest of Osnabrueck and continues to close along the Weser River.

In the US Ninth Army’s XIX Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division reaches the Weser River, south of Hameln, and establishes a bridgehead with four Task Forces and two artillery battalions. The 83^rd Division continues northeast, toward the Weser River, to the right of the 2^nd Armored Division, clearing many towns.

The US First Army joins in the battle to destroy the Ruhr pocket, at first employing III Corps.

VII Corps, now relieved of the responsibility for the Ruhr pocket, starts east toward the Weser River. Against scattered resistance, they gain up to 22 miles, with Combat Command A reaching the Ottbergen–Rheder area and Combat Command B advancing to Siddessen and Willegassen.

In the US Third Army’s XX Corps area, Combat Command A and Combat Command B, of the 6^th Armored Division clear Muhlhausen by 0905 hours.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, converging columns of armor and infantry take Gemuenden.

In the XXI Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 12^th Armored Division completes its crossing of the Main River, at Wuerzburg and, in conjunction with elements of the 42^nd Division, overcomes resistance, and starts a drive on Schweinfurt.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 457 B-24s and B-17s to attack a railroad bridge at Dravograd, in Yugoslavia, marshalling yards and locomotive depots at Brescia, Alessandria, and Turin, in Italy, and the airfield at Udine, Italy.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s bomb five bridges in northern Italy and Austria, at Steinach, Austria, and Matrei am Brenner, Modena, Salorno, and San Michele all'Adige, and blast gun positions at La Spezia, Italy.

In the US Fifth Army area, the 92^nd Division begins a diversionary attack in the Ligurian coastal sector toward Massa, with the 370^th Infantry on the left and the 442^nd Infantry on the right.

In the British Eighth Army’s V Corps area, the 56^th Division begins Operation LEVER, to clear the wedge of land between the Reno River and the southwest shore of Lake Comacchio, attacking across the Reno River, during the night.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the Kowloon Docks, in Hong Kong, and a nearby airfield, while other B-24s bomb Kiirun harbor, in Formosa.

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, resistance to the 1^st Cavalry Division eases. The 12^th Cavalry completes the clearing of the Imoc Hill area, near Calauan. The 187^th Infantry, of the 11^th Airborne Division, takes Talisay and probes in the western foothills of Mt. Malepunyo, while the 188^th Infantry mops-up, south and southeast of Mt. Malepunyo.

The US Eighth Army announces the completion of the Visayan Passage mission, although mopping-up is still in progress. Romblon Island is turned over to guerrillas.

In the Ryukyu Islands, the III Amphibious Corps area, the 22^nd Marines, of the 6^th Marine Division, spearheading a northward drive up the Ishikawa Isthmus, reaches the Atsutabaru–Kin line.

The XXIV Corps Command Post closes on board the USS Teton and opens ashore. The 382^nd Infantry gains 400 to 900 yards.

1,138 · April 6, 2015

Friday, April 6, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 930 – 659 bombers hit rail targets in the Leipzig, Germany area using H2X radar

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US Ninth Army area, XIII Corps opens an assault across the Weser River, at 0500 hours.

In the XIX Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division, thrusts northeast to the Leine River, at Schulenberg, and takes the bridge intact.

In the XVI Corps area, the 75^th Division thrusts south, toward the Ruhr River, just west of Dortmund, in an effort to sever the communication lines of trapped enemy and block their movement from Dortmund westward.

In the US First Army area, XVIII Corps (Airborne) begins a coordinated assault against the Ruhr pocket, heading north and northwest, toward the Ruhr River, in the vicinity of its junction with the Rhine River.

In the US Third Army’s XX Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division’s mission is concluded as Langensalza, under assault by elements of Combat Command A and VIII Corps’ 65th Division, capitulates.

In the VIII Corps area, the 65^th Division completes the capture of Langensalza, by 0745 hours, and is disposed along a restraining line from Muhlhausen to Langensalza, before noon.

XV Corps continues its rapid northeastward advance.

In the XXI Corps area, 42^nd Division troops and Combat Command A, of the 12^th Armored Division, drive northeast, toward Schweinfurt. Combat Command B crosses the Main River, at Kitzingen, and, in conjunction with Combat Command R to the right, overruns Markbreit, Obernbreit, and Mainbernheim, completing its mission. Combat Command R also attains its objective, upon reaching Iphofen and Einersheim.

In the VI Corps area, the 100^th Division continues their struggle for Heilbronn, where assault forces, without the aid of armor, inch forward in the northeastern and western portions of the city. During the night, the enemy infiltrates across the main supply route, between Bad Mergentheim and Crailsheim.

Eastern Europe

Some elements of the Second Ukrainian Front, clearing the region north of the Danube River, reach the Morava River line, northeast of Vienna, on a 37 mile front, while others, to the south, close in on Vienna, from the east.

Mediterranean Theater

15^th Air Force dispatches a force of 387 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escort, to bomb marshalling yards, flak positions and an ordnance depot at Verona, and a marshalling yard and small arms plant at Brescia.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In the US Fifth Army area, the 92^nd Division continues their attack toward Massa, with the 442^nd Infantry, as enemy fire prevents the 370^th Infantry from jumping off.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s bomb the town of Hokko, on Formosa. On Luzon Island, ground support sorties continue in the areas around the Balete Pass, west of Ft. Stotsenburg, north, northeast, and south of Laguna de Bay, and around Legaspi. Fighters hit Carabao Island and Infanta. B-24s bomb a town north of Cebu City, while fighters support ground units on Cebu Island. A-20s support ground forces on Negros Island. B-25s pound Bunawan on Mindanao Island. B-24s bomb Jolo Island, in the Philippine Island defenses, and ammunition and supply dumps.

In the US Sixth Army’s Legaspi sector, the 1^st Battalion, of the 158^th Infantry, continues southward, along a ridge, to the trail running west from Daraga, about a mile south of Busay. An Antitank Company, reinforced, in a shore-to-shore operation to clear Sorsogon Province, moves from Legaspi to Bacon, where the Bicol Peninsula is but five miles wide, and lands unopposed.

In the I Corps area, on Highway 9, Company G, of the 129^th Infantry, under 33^rd Division control, becomes isolated from the main body of the 2^nd Battalion, while executing an envelopment maneuver, in the Salat area.

In the XI Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 63^rd Infantry (6^th Division), opens an assault on Mt. Mataba, after preparatory artillery fire.

In the XIV Corps area, elements of the 1^st Cavalry and the 11^th Airborne Divisions are fighting in the foothills at the northern and western approaches of the Mt. Malepunyo hill mass.

In the Ryukyu Islands, the Japanese make a belated but all-out air effort against shipping and the Okinawa beaches. Of some 400 planes involved, about three fourths are destroyed. Kamikazes sink two destroyers, a mine sweeper, two ammunition ships, and an Landing Ship Tank (LST), and damage other shipping.

In the US Tenth Army’s XXIV Corps area, troops of the 383^rd Infantry (96^th Division), clear half of Cactus Ridge, in the course of hard fighting. On the 7^th Division’s right flank, the 184^th Infantry, with close fire support and flame throwers, overruns an elaborate outpost position on the pinnacle, some 1,000 yards southwest of Arakachi.

1,138 · April 6, 2015

Saturday, April 7, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 931 – 1,314 bombers and 898 fighters are dispatched to hit airfields, oil and munitions depots and explosive plants in central and northern Germany, and are met by over 100 conventional fighters and over 50 jets.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 175 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos to attack the benzol plant at Molbis, near Leipzig.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of 268 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s to attack marshalling yards at Northeim and Gottingen, plus two town areas.

In the British Second Army’s VIII Corps area, the 6^th Airborne Division and the 11^th Armored Division establish bridgeheads across the Weser River, at Minden and Stolzenau, respectively, and drive toward the next river line, the Leine River.

In the US Ninth Army’s XIII Corps area, the 84^th Division completes its crossing of the Weser River and expands the bridgehead substantially.

In the XVI Corps area, the 75^th Division continues south toward the Ruhr River in the center and right of its zone, with the 290^th Infantry seizing Frohlinde and Kirchline and the 291^st Infantry clearing most of Castrop Rauxel.

In the US First Army area, XVIII Corps’ (Airborne) attack broadens, as the 97^th Division goes on the offensive for the first time, committing its right flank regiment, the 386^th Infantry, in an assault on the Ruhr pocket, after artillery preparation.

In the III Corps area, the 9^th Division drives rapidly west, on the right flank, where the 47^th Infantry, becoming a part of the reformed Task Force Birks, clears Gevelinghausen, Esshoff, Nuttlar, Ostwig, Bestwig, and Heringhausen.

In the VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division closes along the Weser River and finds all of the bridges down.

In the V Corps area, the 2^nd Division continues their movement across the Weser River, at Veckerhagen, and expands the bridgehead toward Dransfeld. Supporting vehicles cross upon completion of treadway bridge.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, an enemy counterattack overruns the 3^rd Battalion, of the 261^st Infantry (65^th Division), in Struth, but the situation is restored, with the assistance of elements of XX Corps and aircraft.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 14^th Armored Division, takes Neustadt, on the Saale River, with ease, but right flank forces are slowed by strong resistance.

In the XXI Corps area, the 42^nd Division is given the task of capturing Schweinfurt, a ballbearing manufacturing center, and is reinforced by Combat Command A, of the 12^th Armored Division.

In the VI Corps area, the 100^th Division slowly expands its positions in Heilbronn.

Eastern Europe

Elements of the Third Ukrainian Front break into the southern part of Vienna, where street fighting ensues.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of 128 B-17s and B-24s to attack the Mezzocorona railroad bridge and nearby road bridge, and the Verona-Parona di VaIpolicella railroad bridge, in Italy, and marshalling yards at Innsbruck, Sankt Veit an der Glan, and Klagenfurt, in Austria. Over 500 bombers return to base without bombing because of multi-layer clouds.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the US Sixth Army area, Regimental Combat Team 158 continues efforts to extend control over Legaspi area. The airstrip at Legaspi becomes operational.

In the I Corps area, in the 33^rd Division’s sector, the Commanding General of the 129^th Infantry, is still isolated in the Salat area.

In the US Eighth Army area, on Cebu Island, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 132^nd Infantry, advances 1,000 yards northwest, from the vicinity of Hill 27 toward Hill 26, but withdraws under a counterattack.

Central Pacific Area

20th Air Force Mission 58 – 107 B-29s bomb the Nakajima aircraft engine plant at Tokyo, and hit targets of opportunity. They shoot down 80 Japanese aircraft. Three B-29s are lost.

20th Air Force Mission 59 – 194 B-29s hit the Mitsubishi aircraft plant at Nagoya, and targets of opportunity. They shoot down 21 Japanese aircraft. Two B-29s are lost.

In the Battle of the East China Sea, Japanese fleet units heading toward Okinawa are intercepted by planes of Task Force 58, which sink the battle ship Yamato, the light cruiser Yahagi, and four destroyers and damage two other destroyers. Kamikaze plane damages the USS Hancock, but Task Force 58 shoots down 54 aircraft, against a loss of 10.

In the Ryukyu Islands, in US Tenth Army area, fighter aircraft arrive on Okinawa.

In the XXIV Corps area, the 383^rd Infantry, of the 96^th Division, completes the capture of Cactus Ridge, while the 382^nd Infantry advances in the region east of the Ginowan road.

1,138 · April 8, 2015

Sunday, April 8, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 932 – 1,173 bombers and 794 fighters attack various targets in Germany.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 263 Halifaxes, 160 Lancasters, and 17 Mosquitos to Hamburg. Meanwhile, 231 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos attack the Lützkendorf oil refinery.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of around 620 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to bomb the Munchenbernsdorf oil storage depot, the Sonderhausen communications center, Nienhagen oil refinery, Celle marshalling yard, and eight city areas.

In the Canadian First Army’s Canadian II Corps area, the Canadian 4^th Armored Division, driving northeast toward Oldenburg, crosses the Ems River, in the Meppen–Lathen area.

In the British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, the Guards Armoured Division, overcoming sharp resistance east of Lingen, continues northeast toward Bremen.

In the XII Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division is rapidly approaching the Weser River.

VIII Corps reaches the Leine River, southeast of Nienburg.

In US Ninth Army’s XIII Corps area, the 84^th Division gains their bridgehead objectives and on the north reaches the Leine River. The 11^th Cavalry Group crosses the Weser River and screens XIII Corps’ northern flank, to the Leine River.

In the XIX Corps area, the 83^rd Division continues east, on XIX Corps’ right flank, crossing the Leine River at several points in the Alfeld– Greene area, and reaches its assigned objective, a line from Gandersheim to Westfeld, south of Hildesheim.

In the XVI Corps area, the 75^th Division, with effective air and artillery support, completes the capture of Castrop Rauxel and drives to edge of Luetgendortmund.

In the US First Army’s III Corps area, Task Force Birks, of the 9^th Division, continues west, overrunning Velmede, Halbeswig, and Wehrstapel, and begins to clear Meschede.

VII Corps establishes a firm infantry bridgehead across the Weser River and prepares to pass armor through it.

In the V Corps area, the 2^nd Division completes its crossing of the Weser River and drives rapidly east, about 10 miles.

In the US Seventh Army’s XXI Corps area, the 42^nd Division meets strong opposition from the outer defenses of Schweinfurt.

In the VI Corps area, the 100^th Division continues bitter street fighting in Heilbronn and crosses reinforcements into the bridgehead.

In the French 1^st Army’s II Corps area, the 2^nd Moroccan Infantry Division gains further ground, north of the Enz River, and establishes a bridgehead south of the river, in the vicinity of Muehlhausen.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 500 B-24s and B-17s, with fighter escorts, to attack communications in northern Italy, concentrating on the transportation system feeding into the Brenner Pass.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 161^st Infantry, of the 25^th Division, reaches the western slope of Crump Hill, about 1,000 yards west of Kapintalan, and pauses until the 35^th Infantry can clear Kapintalan.

In the US Eighth Army area, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 132^nd Infantry, takes the ridge 2,000 yards northwest of Hill 27, on Cebu Island, and holds it against a nighttime counterattack.

Central Pacific Area

20th Air Force Mission 60 – 32 B-29s strike two airfields at Kanoya, on Kyushu, Japan, from which Kamikaze attacks are originating.

20th Air Force Mission 61 – 48 B-29s attack the airfield at Kokubu, on Kyushu, Japan, from which Kamikaze attacks are originating. One B-29 and crew is lost.

On Okinawa, in the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the battle for the Motobu Peninsula begins, as columns of the 29^th Marines, of the 6^th Marine Division, move forward to fix enemy positions.

In the XXIV Corps area, the 184^th Infantry, of the 7^th Division, attacks toward two strongpoints, Tomb Hill, 1,000 yards northwest of Ouki, and Triangulation Hill, 1,000 yards northwest of Tomb Hill. The 184^th Infantry then takes Triangulation Hill.

WWII - 70 Years Ago

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