82nd Recon Unit - Co. D

Always at the front of the action. If your interested in learning more about the 82nd Recon Group please contact Mike Gunter directly via email: michaelgunter@hotmail.com

Below is a very detailed account of what the Recon unit did in WWII in September of 1944. Written by Arno Lasoe and used by permission. COPYRIGHT © ARNO LASOE, 2005

1 September 1944

82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion advanced in front of the 2nd Armored Division on the drive from the Seine River towards Belgium. The Somme River was crossed during the morning on a crossing located by “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at BRAY-SUR-SOMME. Most of the bridges of the Somme River were found to be destroyed by retreating Germans, however the bridge at BRAY-SUR-SOMME was a by-pass bridge that had evidently been overlooked by Germans. The advance was rapid after crossing the Somme River, little or no resistance was found except for some disorganized groups of retreating Germans which stumbled onto the advancing columns of the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. Many prisoners were taken and a great quantity of enemy materiel was destroyed during the day before the Battalion was assembled in the vicinity of RUMAUCOURT.

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was to proceed crossings on the Somme River, report on the bridges, then to cross and proceed as far as possible before night-fall in a northeasterly direction toward the Belgium border. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved out from HARGICOURT at 0600B. The 1st Platoon followed by Headquarters Platoon after reconnoitering the Somme River found all crossings in “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion sector blown. Using a by-pass over a small bridge that had been found earlier by “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Company at BRAY-SUR-SOMME, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion crossed the Somme River at about 1400B and continued after the retreating Germans, capturing 250 prisoners in running fights. Almost every liberated town yielded a few prisoners. The 3rd Platoon under 2nd Lieutenant Henry H. Burns engaged a Company of infantry in the open inflicting very heavy casualties and capturing 45 prisoners. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion went into an assembly area in the vicinity of RUMAUCOURT for the night.

1st Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion performed reconnaissance toward ARRAS, setting up bivouac 300 yards north of RUMAUCOURT. 2nd Platoon in Company reserve, accompanied Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion to the new assembly area. 3rd Platoon performed also reconnaissance toward ARRAS and joined the remainder of the Company north of RUMAUCOURT. The Headquarters Platoon “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Company arriving in new assembly area at RUMAUCOURT at 2130B.

Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion with the 3rd Platoon in reserve, moved from bivouac area, five miles northeast of MONTIDIER and crossed the Somme River at BRAY-SUR-SOMME and proceeded northeast through BAPAUME to bivouac for the night near MORCHIES. The 1st Platoon received a reconnaissance mission to move northeast and reconnoiter a bridge crossing of the Somme River in the vicinity of PERONNE. The mission was changed about 1000B, and the 1st Platoon was ordered to move to the vicinity of BRAY-SUR-SOMME. The 1st Platoon checked the crossing near CAPPY ECLUSIER-VAUX, FRISE, FEUILLÈRES, and CLÉRY-SUR-SOMME, and found that all of these bridges had been blown. At about 1430B the 1st Platoon was ordered to proceed to PERONNE and assist the 2nd Platoon to hold a bridge that was still intact at that point. The 2nd Platoon had the mission to move northeast and reconnoiter for bridges and bridge sites north of PERONNE across the Somme River. The 2nd Platoon was to move across country and avoid towns that might contain small enemy parties. The 2nd Platoon moved cross country to a point south of HATTENCOURT and upon receiving orders to check crossings west of PERONNE, moved immediately to CHILLY. At this point the platoon reported an abandoned airport that civilians reported heavily mined. From CHILLY the platoon moved via LIHONS VERMANDOVILLERS and ASSEVILLERS to DOMPIERRE-BECQUINCOURT. At DOMPIERRE-BECQUINCOURT the platoon leader received orders from the 2nd Armored Division Commander to go to PERONNE with all possible speed and report and hold the bridge over Somme River at PERONNE if it was still intact. Between HERBÉCOURT and BIACHES the 2nd Platoon captured a German Staff car and truck, two German Captains and about six soldiers. The 2nd Armored Division Commander arrived at this point and ordered all possible speed be made to this bridge. The 2nd Platoon moved at about 30 miles per hour to the bridge site and shot up one German sentry enroute. The bridge at PERONNE was still intact, but prepared for demolition. The prompt action of Sergeant James H. Maser who was in command of the point armored car, so surprised the Germans that the wiring to the demolitions was cut and the bridge saved. Sergeant James H. Maser upon coming into sight of the bridge and the enemy, opened up with his machine guns and drove his armored car across the bridge. The wiring was cut by the platoon leader and two more armored cars moved across the bridge to hold it. The assault gun and the platoon command car were used to cover the southern approaches to the bridge. This bridge was held in spite of small arms and artillery fire. The platoons arrived at the bridge at 1500B. By continually changing positions and taking advantage of buildings, the 1st and 2nd Platoon were able to hold the bridge until about 1830B. At this time air burst artillery caused the platoons to withdraw, but infantry units moved to the bridge site about 20 minutes after the withdrawal and their supporting artillery silenced the enemy guns. At the bridge site, the 2nd Platoon took the dug in position around the bridge and captured one light machine gun during the day. A 20mm gun was destroyed, a panel truck knocked out and one truck loaded with German infantry was set on fire by 37mm and .50 caliber machinegun fire. Friendly natives reported 11 to 15 guns on the high ground to the east and 300 infantry in or near PERONNE. Sergeant James H. Maser was wounded about 1700B when he tried to keep a Cub (Observation Plane) from taxiing through a field of fire of anti-tank guns to the 2nd Platoon east. The plane was destroyed but daring action of Sergeant James H. Maser and 2nd Lieutenant Charles L. Dossey saved Captain and Major who were in the plane. The 1st and 2nd Platoons moved to join the remainder of “C” Company at MORCHIES at 2030B. The platoons crossed the that evening the Somme River at BRAY-SUR-SOMME and bivouacked about three miles northeast of BRAY-SUR-SOMME.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved from bivouac one and one-half miles north of PIERREPONT-SUR-AVRE at 0830B and headed northeast to cross the Somme River at BRAY-SUR-SOMME. The railroad bridge south of the BRAY-SUR-SOMME was partially destroyed, but a crossing was effected. The bridge over the Somme River at BRAY-SUR-SOMME was suitable after the Engineers cleared a road block just north of it. “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was to perform reconnaissance for Combat Command “A” to BAPAUME. They passed through the following towns FLERS, BOULANGERE, CROLLE and FRICOURT. The town of BAPAUME was by-passed. At FRICOURT a German column of horse-drawn vehicles was intercepted. 37 PW’s were captured, 5 cars, 2 trucks, 30 horses and 12 wagons were destroyed or captured. Received instructions on radio to secure bridge at AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC. “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion then proceeded to MAMETA, ÉPINOY and reached it’s objective, AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC at 2000B. Between ÉPINOY and AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC a sedan attempted to double the column. The truck was captured as one of our vehicles blocked the road, but the sedan got away. As the column entered AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC, a German half-track swung out of a side street and was put out of action by one shot from the 37mm gun of the lead tank. Upon entering AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC the bridge was secured by the 1st Platoon. The 2nd and 3rd Platoons outposted the AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC to the north and south respectively. All night long, groups of German vehicles and men tried to enter AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC from the south in order to cross the bridge, but were stopped by action of tank platoon outposting south side of AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC. Total damage done and PW’s taken was as follows: Killed 25, Wounded 15, PW’s 230 Enlisted Men and 6 Officers, Vehicles: 1 bus, 2 motorcycles, 2 half-tracks, 14 wagons, 30 horses, 6 cars and 11 trucks.

2 September 1944

82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion advanced further towards Belgium. The advance of the Battalion was covered by “A” & “B” Companies, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. A scout section of “A” Company reached the Belgium border at 0930B. Shortly thereafter Captain Large, Commanding Officer of “B” Company as well as Captain McGee, Commanding Officer of “A” Company, were both killed by enemy riflemen as they were checking on their advance patrols. The rest of the day was spent by the Battalion in mopping up islands of resistance. One patrol of 2nd Platoon, “A” Company reconnoitered the route towards TOURNAI, Belgium. The Battalion assembled in the vicinity of RUMES, Belgium for the night, after an unknown number of Germans were killed, over 800 prisoners taken and 3 Self-Propelled 75mm anti-tank guns, 2 armored cars, 2 half-track personnel carriers, several trucks, and many horse drawn carts were destroyed.

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was to seize important cross roads three miles northeast of ORCHIES, a distance of about 35 miles. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved out at 0730B and arrived on objective and elements crossed the Belgium frontier at 0930B. In the town of ORCHIES “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion captured 480 prisoners and the 3rd Platoon was to remain at ORCHIES to guard these prisoners and maintain order. The 1st and 2nd Platoons outposted the cross roads. Captain Clark E. McGee, the Commanding Officer of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion took the 1st Platoon to the Belgium frontier and was returning to ORCHIES to see what the situation was and to move the remainder of his Company forward. On the outskirts of ORCHIES his ¼ ton was ambushed and Captain Clark E. McGee, Corporal Lee S. Wanne, and Private First Class Leslie W. Herbig were killed. The 2nd Platoon pushed patrols towards the outskirts of TOURNAI, Belgium without further contact. The entire “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was relieved and moved to an assembly area at RUMES, Belgium.

1st Platoon, B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved out at 0530B as advance guard for Combat Command “A”, 2nd Armored Division proceeding to MOUCHIN, on the Belgian border. Enemy was observed south of ORCHIES and fired on, killing and wounding several. A large number of prisoners began to come in, but these were left to be rounded up by the FFI. 1st Platoon proceeded through LANDAS where several hundred of the enemy were encountered. 1st Platoon placed fire on the enemy and in the ensuing battle, Captain Theodore W. Large, Commanding Officer of the “B” Company was killed by an enemy rifle man at 0950B. The fight continued until 1040B. An undetermined number of enemy were killed and wounded. The with drew to evacuated the body of Captain Large. The assault gun was sent after a group of enemy who wanted to surrender. 125 prisoners were taken at that point. 1st Platoon reached MOUCHIN without further incident at 1130B. At 1600 the 1st Platoon reconnoitered large woods north and east of MOUCHIN for Battalion Assembly. The entire “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to that area at 2000B. 2nd Platoon area 2 miles northeast of MOUCHIN, and proceeded north from that point. Upon reaching a point 2 miles north of SAINT-AMAND 2nd Platoon was ordered to rejoin the “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. Upon reaching SAINT-AMAND the 2nd Platoon made contact with elements of the 125th Cavalry Squadron (113th Cavalry Group) which going west. As the 2nd Platoon neared the edge of SAINT-AMAND, 4 enemy vehicles were observed entering the SAINT-AMAND. Fire was immediately brought on these and within a few minutes all 4 vehicles were destroyed. Three of the vehicles were half-tracks, one of which mounted a 75mm howitzer. The fourth vehicle was believed to be a tank, but positive identification was impossible because of intense fire and exploding ammunition. Two Germans were killed, 3 wounded and 2 captured. Approximately 40 Germans escaped into nearby building and were being rounded up by the FFI when the 2nd Platoon left the area. 2nd Platoon returned to “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalions assembly area to spend the night. 3rd Platoon moved out at 0530B to check river crossings at DOUAI. The 3rd Platoon reached DOUAI at 0900B and was ordered to proceed to MOUCHIN at once to outpost MOUCHIN. The town was outposted and 2 patrols were sent out to clean out area around MOUCHIN. First patrol encountered 35 Germans in a pill box 1000 yards east of the MOUCHIN, and in the ensuing action 5 Germans were killed, 25 captured, and 5 escaped. Second patrol encountered a German armored car and two motorcycles north of MOUCHIN. The armored car was knocked out and the motorcycles captured intact. The 3rd Platoon returned to Company assembly area for the night. Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion left area RUMAUCOURT at 0545B reaching MOUCHIN at 1100B. At 2030B the Headquarters Platoon left again MOUCHIN for new area, but returned and set up in original position overnight.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was in 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion reserve. The 1st and 2nd Platoons joined Headquarters Platoon and the 3rd Platoon at MORCHIES. Preparations were made to move to the northeast. The “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to MOUCHIN at 1300B via VUIMY, DNIB BARALLE to a point near RUMAUCOURT. At RUMAUCOURT patrols were sent out to check report from the French Underground that 150 German infantrymen were moving through the area. The Germans could not be found. This patrol made contact with a British column that was moving north. At 1730B the Company moved from RUMAUCOURT, north via ÉCOURT-ST-QUENTIN, ARLEUX, CANTIN, DOUAI, MONTIGNY-EN-OSTREVENT, LALLAING, and FLINES-LEZ-RÂCHES to COUTICHES. The Company went into bivouac at 2200B for the night. “C” Company, 82nd Armored reconnaissance Battalion moved 69 miles over secondary roads. The movement was made always on the flank of the Division column.

At 0600B an officer and 5 men with two ¼ ton trucks of “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion left AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC and proceeded to Headquarters & Headquarters Company of the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion which was located about 5 miles west of the town for the purpose of guiding leading elements of Combat Command “A” to the bridge in AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC. This was accomplished by about 0900B. “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was unable to leave AUBENCHEUL-AU-BAC until 1200B due to the large number of PW’s it had to guard. On the way to the new bivouac two miles southwest of RUMES, Belgium “D” Company, 82nd Armored reconnaissance Battalion passed MASNY, ECAILLION, SOMAIN and NOMAIN.

3 September 1944

Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion spent the day on maintenance and rehabilitation in the vicinity of RUMES.

1st Lieutenant Frank H. Jordan was assigned the command of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. The day was spent in maintenance at RUMES.

“B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in area of MOUCHIN during day. Maintenance of all vehicles and weapons and rehabilitation of personnel.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to RUMES, Belgium and went into bivouac near RUMES and spent the day in care and maintenance of vehicles, arms and personal equipment.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion spent the day on rehabilitation and maintenance two miles southwest of RUMES.

4 September 1944

Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion spent the day on maintenance and rehabilitation in the vicinity of RUMES.

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion spent the entire day on maintenance and rehabilitation at RUMES, Belgium.

“B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in area MOUCHIN. Continuance of maintenance of vehicles and weapons and rehabilitation of personnel.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in bivouac near RUMES. 1st Lieutenant Frank H. Jordan Jr, the Company Executive Officer was given command of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and 1st Lieutenant Quin Morton, platoon leader of the 2nd Platoon was appointed Executive Officer of “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. The day was spent in care and maintenance of vehicles and arms.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion spent the day on rehabilitation and maintenance two miles southwest of RUMES.

5 September 1944

Elements of the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion were sent out at 1400B to contact enemy and seek routes for the 2nd Armored Divisions advance east through Belgium in XIX Corps zone behind the reconnaissance screen of the 113th Cavalry Group. 2nd Armored Division was ordered to advance to the northeast on a wide front in 5 main columns (CC”B” on right, Div Res in center, CC”A” on left). Patrols of the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion crossed the Senne River at 2000B and at the close of operations on that day they had reached an area six miles south of BRUSSELS. Contact was made with Belgian resistance units to aid in determining enemy dispositions.

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was assigned a mission of reconnoitering behind the 113th Cavalry Group to the northeast as far as the Meuse River and so cover the advance of elements of the 2nd Armored Division. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion less the 1st Platoon, moved out on its mission and after traveling 68 miles, reached an assembly area one mile northeast of LES CULATS. The 1st Platoon whom not moved with the remainder of the Company halted in a place on its axis and spent the night approximately two miles north of the LION OF WATERLOO.

“B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in area MOUCHIN until 1545B. At 1545B entire company moved to new 2nd Armored Division area near VIEUX GENAPPE and arrived there at 2100B. Platoons performed route reconnaissance. No enemy contact.

Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion with the 1st Platoon in reserve moved from RUMES at about 1500B. “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was to push reconnaissance northeast toward LIEGE and report enemy movements and the conditions of roads and bridges. Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and 1st Platoon left Belgium and took the following route SAINT-AMAND, CONDÉ-SUR-L’ESCAUT, then again entering Belgium north of CONDÉ-SUR-L’ESCAUT to GRANDGLISE, HAUTRAGE, BAUDOUR, MONS, SAINT DENIS, THIEUSIES, HAUTE-FOLIE and bivouacked for the night outside of the little village of NAAST (About 5 miles north of LE ROEULX.) At MONS contact was made with elements of the 1st Infantry Division and the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (113th Cavalry Group). Just east of SAINT DENIS contact was made with one reconnaissance platoon and one tank platoon that had just captured three companies of German infantry. The 2nd and 3rd Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved on the southern route from RUMES, left Belgium moved via SAINT-AMAND, VALENCIENNES then entering Belgium again and continue its move thru, MONS, LE ROEULX and LA LOUVIÈRE to SENEFFE. The move was accomplished without enemy contact. During the night 2nd Lieutenant Paul W. Wallace attempted to locate the Company Command Post to get the orders for the next days operations, but the road guides let him pass their outpost twice. The practice of returning to Company or Battalion Command Posts at night is more or less dangerous, depending of course on the enemy situation. (On this particular night there were many small groups of Germans wandering around trying to locate their own lines).

3rd Platoon, “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion started to turn tracks, but was not completely done when the Company moved at 1600B. Passed through following towns: SAINT-AMAND, MOUCHIN and NIVELLES. “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion bivouacked for the night three miles east of NIVELLES.

6 September 1944

Elements of the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion continue its advance over the 5 routes reconnoitered by elements of the 113th Cavalry Group. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion followed the 125th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron over the two most northern routes ahead of the columns of Combat Command ”A”, 2nd Armored Division. “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion with the Battalions Forward Echelon in its rear followed the advance of the main body of the 113th Cavalry Group ahead of the column of 2nd Armored Division Reserve which moved over the center route. “C” Company, Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion followed the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron over the two most southern routes ahead of the columns of Combat Command “B”.

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion continued its mission of reconnaissance behind the 113th Cavalry Group on two northern of the five parallel axis. All elements of the “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion assembled at a point one mile east of HAMME-MILLE at approximately 1330B. The 1st , 2nd and 3rd Platoon were sent by parallel routes to reconnoiter further to the northeast in the direction of TIENEN. 1st Platoon ran into two enemy half-tracks and a light tank which retreated hastily and escaped. The 1st Platoon knocked out two machine gun nests, killing four enemy and wounding an unknown number and taking five prisoners at OPVELP. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion went into positions for the night at MELDERT.

“B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion 1st Platoon in reserve moved with Headquarters Platoon from VIEUX GENAPPE to new assembly area. 2nd Platoon moved out at 0730B and performed route reconnaissance to new area one-half mile southeast of CHAPELLE STINT LAURENT. Selected bivouac area in airfield southeast of town. Patrols were sent to reconnoiter area so south and west of this area and as a result 20 prisoners were captured. Headquarters Platoon moved from VIEUX GENAPPE at 0730B to new assembly area at PIETREBAIS one-half mile southeast of CHAPELLE SINT LAURENT.

At first light, 1st Lieutenant Quin Morten went to SENEFFE and gave the 2nd and 3rd Platoon of “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion their mission for the day. The two platoons moved on the same axis to cross roads south of OPPREBAIS on secondary roads via BUZET, RÈVES, TILLY, CHASTRE, WALHAIN, SART-LES-WALHAIN, THOREMBAIS-SINT-TROND and outposted the highway junction south of THORMEBAIS-SAINT-TROND. Contact had been made with elements of the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron at THOREMBAIS-SAINT-TROND and after the road junction south of OPPREBAIS was outposted the 3rd Platoon returned to a woods about three miles northeast of THOREMBAIS-SAINT-TROND and assisted a Troop of the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron clear the woods of Germans. One company of Germans was reported at this point. The 3rd Platoon deployed near the east flank of the woods and laid very heavy fire into the area. 35 prisoners were taken but were turned over to the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron and this unit checked the woods. An officer of the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron commented on the amount of fire power the 3rd Platoon was able to lay on the enemy positions. (2 60mm Mortars, 1 75mm Assault Gun, 37mm Guns and .50 Caliber Machine Guns were fired into the enemy position very effectively. The Headquarters Platoon and the 1st Platoon moved from NAAST at first light via ECAUSSINNES-D’ENGHIEN, FELUY, NIVELLES, WAYS, COURT-SAINT-ETIENNE, CORBAIS, and CHAUMONT-GISTOUX, to OPPREBAIS. The Company Command Post was set up at OPPREBAIS and the 1st Platoon outposted the highway to the east of OPPREBAIS. “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion captured 1 German Officer and 86 soldiers. There were Poles, White Russians, and Germans among the soldiers captured. At about 1700B the 3rd Platoon was returned to the Company Command Post as the reserve platoon and the 1st Platoon moved and set up outpost at WASTINES. The Company held up at OPPREBAIS because gas was slow in coming up.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion left its bivouac at 0845B and traveled through GENAPPE, WAVRE, GASTUCHE to bivouac one-half mile northeast of PIETREBAIS and outposted Battalion Command Post. 3rd Platoon rejoined, “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at 1800B.

7 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was to continue to push reconnaissance to the northeast toward the Albert Canal along the two Northern axis of the five axis which elements of the 2nd Armored Division and the XIX Corps using behind the reconnaissance screen of the 113th Cavalry Group. The 2nd Platoon had the northern axis and reached HASSELT without meeting any opposition. 2nd Platoon received an extremely enthusiastic welcome in HASSELT since the town was just liberated by elements of the 125th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion and 82nd Engineer Combat Battalion. After a short stop at HASSELT the 2nd Platoon continued its mission. About one mile east of the HASSELT the 2nd Platoon ran into heavy small arms fire and was forced to retire due to anti-tank fire and direct fire from artillery which was located across the Albert canal. The 2nd Platoon outposted ALKEN for the night. During the day the 2nd Platoon inflicted severe casualties and captured 40 PW’s. Headquarters Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion followed the 1st and 3rd Platoon. The 3rd Platoon acted as the advance guard for the column. On the main road at a point one and one-half miles northwest of KORTESSEM a road block was encountered, defended by machine guns, two 20mm flak guns and one anti-tank gun. The lead ¼ ton was hit a number of times by machine gun fire, but no casualties were suffered. The 3rd Platoon furnished the holding force and sent security to the left flank. The 1st Platoon was employed to go cross-country and come in on the rear of the road block. This force inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy. The section of the 3rd Platoon covering the left flank was attacked by infantry and killed 13, captured 36, and completely stopped the attack. 1st and 3rd Platoon captured together a total of 58 prisoners at that point. After reducing the road block the 1st and 3rd Platoon pursued the retreating Germans toward KORTESSEM, a section of armored cars moving at about 300 yards distance along each side of the road. The remainder of the column was on the road. Almost in the center of town, the armored car commanded by 2nd Lieutenant Carl J. Wilson was hit by a 75mm anti-tank shell. 2nd Lieutenant Henry H. Burns, platoon leader, happened to be ridding on the back of the car at this point. He was knocked off the car by the concussion. Everyone in the car managed to get out except Technician 5th Grade Leslie F. Hubbell. Lieutenant Burns climbed up on the car to get him but was again knocked off by the concussion of another round hitting the car. On the third try Lieutenant Burns got the man out and dragged him behind a house. The Germans were attacking up the street and it was necessary to organize and drive them out of KORTESSEM in order to evacuate the casualties. Captain Breath, the attached Medical Officer, worked about two hours on Technician 5th Grade Leslie F. Hubbell and 2nd Lieutenant Carl J. Wilson under very difficult conditions, as the Germans attempted to retake KORTESSEM on two occasions. Both attempts were broken up with fire from all weapons, inflicting heavy losses on the Germans. Mortars were especially effective. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion then secured the cross roads one mile north of KORTESSEM for the night. Since “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion less its 2nd Platoon was covering the unprotected right flank of the 125th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron and further the large town of SINT-TRUIDEN directly to the southwest had still not fallen, 1st Lieutenant Frank H. Jordan Commanding Officer “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion took the precaution of laying three mine fields in the event heavy tanks of the enemy should attempt to withdraw through his position.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion pushed reconnaissance further northeast. The 3rd Platoon reached HEERS on the north sector of its reconnaissance zone and the 2nd Platoon reached RAMKIN. ( one and one-half miles west of OREYE) The Headquarters Platoon moved to the area of BERTRÉE. The gas situation became rather critical. At RAMKIN the 2nd Platoon had to take gasoline from different vehicles of the platoon to keep the M-8 assault gun moving. The 1st Platoon was gased at first light and moved to ENINES then further to PELLAINES, WAASMONT, WALZBETS and made contact with an enemy tank column at HASSELBROEK. This platoon remained in observation and outposted the highway south of BORLO. The 3rd Platoon by-passed HASSELBROEK to the north and moved east via PETIT GOYER, BOEKHOUT, MECHELEN-BOVELINGEN and outposted the highway at HEERS. The 2nd Platoon moved via BOMAL, JAUCHE, GENVILLE, WAREMME, GRANDVILLE, and outposted the highway at RAMKIN. Between the towns of JAUCHE and GENVILLE the 2nd Platoon made contact with a German infantry column in open ground when this column (estimated between 120 and 150 men) showed fight the platoon deployed in line and fired machine guns caliber .50 and .30 into the dispersed Germans. 37mm cannister and high explosive was also fired until the enemy showed white flags. 79 prisoners were taken several of whom were seriously wounded. It is believed by 2nd Lieutenant Charles L. Dossey, the platoon leader that only one officer and no men escaped. Near GRANDVILLE the 2nd Platoon captured four Germans and left four badly wounded with civilians, after a sharp skirmish.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion left its bivouac at 1445B. Passed through SAINT-JEAN-GEEST, ZÉTRUD-LUMAY, HOEGAARDEN, BOST, TIENEN, HAKENDOVER and moved into bivouac near DORMAAL. 3rd Platoon was in LUMAY at PW point guarding PW’s for part of afternoon. Company outposted Battalion Command Post for the night.

8 September 1944

Elements of the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion reached and outposted the southern bank of the Albert Canal between BILZEN and KERMT. All bridges were found to be destroyed and the opposite north bank of the Albert Canal was strongly held by the Germans.

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was to proceed due northeast to the Albert Canal, established observation posts and report any enemy activity. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was assigned to defend one of the sectors along the southern bank of the Albert Canal from a point east from DIEPENBEEK to a point one mile south of BILZEN. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion arrived at BILZEN at 1600B. Headquarters Platoon remained in BILZEN while 1st and 3rd Platoon pushed on up to the north towards the southern bank of the Albert Canal, upon arrival both platoons made enemy contact whom occupied the northern bank of the Albert Canal. Both platoons outposted the area and established observation posts. One of the observation posts of 1st Platoon which was located southeast of DIEPENBEEK received some considerable time enemy artillery fire.

1st Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was given the mission to reconnoiter route to HASSELT and to check all bridges across the Albert Canal. Upon reaching the Albert Canal it was found that all bridges were blown. The 1st Platoon set up in observation on road north of DIEPENBEEK and harassed the enemy with 75mm and 37mm fire. At 1600B 1st Platoon withdrew under heavy mortar fire and light artillery fire. An observation post was established to observe enemy activity across the Albert Canal. 1st Platoon moved north of BILZEN at 1800B and sent out light patrols and set up a defensive position. The enemy counter-attacked from across the Albert Canal but this was broken up by artillery at 2300B. 2nd Platoon moved out at 0800B as advance guard for the company. Moved to a new area one and one-half miles southeast of HASSELT. 87 prisoners were captured during the day. All these prisoners where taken 2 miles northeast of SINT-TRUIDEN. 3rd Platoon moved to HASSELT at 0700B and given the mission to reconnoiter bridges across Albert Canal. All bridges were found blown. While reconnoitering bridges at HASSELT the 2nd Platoon come under enemy small arms fire and direct anti-tank fire. 2nd Platoon withdrew and set up observation posts and defensive positions on bridges east of HASSELT. Headquarters Platoon moved up at 0800B to assembly area at K342608, one and one-half miles southeast of HASSELT.

During the morning “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was assembled at GUSSENHOVEN. The platoons were supplied with gasoline, ammunition and rations, and were given the mission for the day. The 1st and 3rd Platoons moved about 1000B to push reconnaissance north towards the Albert Canal. The 3rd Platoon reached HASSELT and found the bridges over the Albert Canal blown and that the north bank of the Albert Canal defended by German infantry with mortars, machine guns and anti-tank guns. The 1st and 3rd Platoon conducted reconnaissance along the Albert Canal between HASSELT and BERINGEN they found all the bridges destroyed. Contact was made at BERINGEN with British units and the 3rd Platoon was sent to keep contact with the British. The 1st and 2nd Platoon outposted the southern bank of the Albert Canal line west of HASSELT. The Headquarters Platoon with the 2nd Platoon in reserve moved out from GUSSENHOVEN at about 1100B and moved to a wooden area southeast of STOKROOIE via DORMAAL, ZOUTLEEUW, OSSENWEG, BINDERVELD, NIEUWERKERKEN, KOZEN, and STEVOORT. Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in the wooden area southeast of STOKROOIE known as BAMBRICK Wood until 1900B and then went into the area near KERMT.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved at 1000B. Passed through SINT-TRUIDEN and then to HASSELT into bivouac two miles southeast of HASSELT at 340607. At 1800B the 1st and 3rd platoons moved out to investigate report that Germans were crossing the Albert Canal just north and east of HASSELT. No enemy contact was made and they returned to bivouac.

9 September 1944

Headquarters Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at BILZEN was shelled, killing three near-by children and wounding two others. Elements of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion conducted detailed reconnaissance of the southern bank of the Albert Canal. During these reconnaissance patrols, it was discovered that the Germans were sending patrols through a viaduct underneath the Albert Canal. Staff Sergeant Edward A. Chiesla from “C” Company, 246th Engineer Combat Battalion (1104th Engineer Combat Group) that accompanied one of the reconnaissance patrols of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was killed. “C” Company, 246th Engineer Combat Battalion arrived in the area of BILZEN also the previously day upon request of the 125th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron whom needed some additional help to secure its large sector along the Albert Canal. “C” Company, 246th Engineer Combat Battalion was ordered to defend the Albert Canal sector on the right flank of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion.

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in the assembly area one and one-half miles southeast of HASSELT during the day. 1st Platoon was relieved by elements of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at 0900B. The 1st Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved north of DIEPENBEEK and kept enemy under observation. At 1600B the 1st Platoon had attempted to cross the Albert Canal over one of the locks but was forced to withdraw under heavy enemy 20mm fire and heavy fire from several machine guns. The 1st Platoon remained north of DIEPENBEEK in defensive position during the night. 2nd Platoon had relieved the 3rd Platoon at 0700B and remained in observation of the enemy across the Albert Canal. The assault gun and mortars were set up and harassing fire was put on enemy position. At 1900B the platoon moved back 500 yards from the Albert Canal and set up defensive positions for the night. 3rd Platoon was relieved by 2nd Platoon at 0700B and returned to the company area to perform maintenance on vehicles and weapons and rehabilitation of personnel.

The 2nd Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was given the mission of outposting the canal crossing in HASSELT. Patrols were sent out along the Albert Canal to determine the location of enemy positions across the Canal. One patrol under 2nd Lieutenant Paul W. Wallace and Staff Sergeant Otis Brake were pinned down by enemy small arms fire. The platoon’s 60mm mortars were fired into the position north of the Albert Canal and the patrol withdrew. The enemy laid down 81mm mortar fire on the 60mm mortar position. 2nd Lieutenant Paul W. Wallace, Staff Sergeant Otis Brake, Private First Class Russell B. Wiberg and Whittington were wounded by enemy mortar fire. Sergeant Brake was evidently wounded when he was helping Private First Class Wiberg, who was badly hit in the feet and legs, to a place of safety. The 2nd Platoon was relieved by the 1st Platoon. The 1st Platoon outposted the HASSELT Albert Canal area. The 2nd Platoon outposted the Albert Canal line from the railroad crossing northwest of HASSELT to STOKROOIE. Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained to the southwest of KERMT.

“D”, Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in bivouac 2 miles southeast of HASSELT. Time was spend on maintenance.

10 September 1944

The situation of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was the same as the day before. The 3rd Platoon relieved the 2nd Platoon. The Headquarters Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion in BILZEN was shifted two miles to the southwest due to the artillery shelling and the length of time they had remained in bivouac there.

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in same area as previous day one and one-half miles southeast of HASSELT. 1st Platoon remained in observation of enemy north of DIEPENBEEK. 2nd Platoon was relieved by 3rd Platoon at 0700B and returned to Company area. 3rd Platoon relieved 2nd Platoon at 0700B. Observed enemy during day. Used 75mm and mortar fire to harass enemy. Set up defensive positions for the night.

The three reconnaissance platoons of “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion continued to outpost the Albert Canal from HASSELT northwest through STOKROOIE. It was a quiet day. The Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained at KERMT.

“D”, Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in bivouac 2 miles southeast of HASSELT. Time was spend on maintenance.

11 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was given the mission of moving northwest to BERINGEN, crossing the Albert Canal at that point and moving then southeast into an area which had been reconnoitered by “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. At a point two miles northeast of BERINGEN, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion went into an assembly area. From there Lieutenant Cook and Lieutenant Burns took patrols to the northeast to contact the British and conduct route reconnaissance. British forces were contacted at ELLIKOM.

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved towards WEIGERSBERG Woods at 1000B. Crossed Albert Canal over the British bridge at BERINGEN. 1st Platoon in reserve. 2nd Platoon moved with Headquarters platoon to new area and then moved out to seize the town of ZONHOVEN. With a platoon of tanks from “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion attached, the platoon seized the town. The tank platoon outposted the town while the 1st Platoon moved southeast toward the north bank of the Albert Canal. At a point 2 miles southeast of ZONHOVEN, the platoon was fired on by small arms, anti-tank and mortar fire coming from a wood 800 yard to the front. 1st Platoon was under fire all day, but remained in position returning the fire and directing artillery fire. Lieutenant George Schneider was killed by enemy rifle fire at 1700B. 1st Platoon returned to Company area.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved from KERMT and crossed the British bridge over the Albert Canal at BERINGEN and the Command Post was set up the WEIGERSBERG Woods north of BOEKT. The 3rd Platoon made enemy contact at the road junction south of ZONHOVEN. Contact was held until dark. The 1st and 2nd Platoons pushed reconnaissance patrols along the north bank of the Albert Canal and found that enemy had pulled back to the bridge right near SCHANS. The platoon took 23 prisoners. At dark the platoons were pulled back to the bivouac area of the Headquarters Platoon for the night.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved at 0800B. Crossed the Albert Canal at BERINGEN in the British sector. Moved to bivouac near BOEKT, 2 miles west of ZOLDER. Traveled 19 miles. At 1230B moved out and outposted ZONHOVEN at 1330B the 2nd platoon moved out with the mission of reconnaissance of the road east of ZONHOVEN. They were held up by enemy shell fire and anti-tank fire about 1 ½ miles east of town. At about 1800B they withdrew and joined the 1st platoon in outposting town of ZONHOVEN. They were under constant shell fire most of the night

12 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved north by way of ZONHOVEN, cutting east on trail two miles north of ZONHOVEN and proceeded over secondary roads to the main north south road running through GRUITRODE - OPGLABBEEK and AS. The mission was to cover the gap between the British right flank and the American left flank, maintaining liaison with the British and pushing south to ascertain the enemy east-west main line of resistance. The 2nd Platoon moved due east to a point in the woods 1 mile north of OPGLABBEEKER ZAVEL then over secondary roads north to GRUITRODE. The 1st Platoon moved as the advance guard of the “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion across the artillery range to GROOTE HEIDE. The 3rd Platoon moved north then east coming into the main north south road at MUIZENDIJK, maintaining contact with the British until the British moved up due north leaving the “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion a very large sector. 3rd Platoon then moved through GRUITRODE south toward OPGLABBEEK. In the woods about one and one-half miles south of OPGLABBEEK, they encountered a road block consisting of trees across the road for several hundred yards. Although the road block was defended by small arms and at least one anti-tank gun, the platoon was able to reconnoiter a way around the right side of the road block. As OPGLABBEEK was held in some strength at the time, 3rd Platoon was ordered to return to the north side of the road block and remain in observation. Mines were used extensively around this road block as the enemy was still defending that area and the area between the road block and OPGLABBEEK was a precarious position to be in. The 1st Platoon and Headquarters Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved due east from SEBASTOPOL to GRUITRODE. The Headquarters Platoon established its Command Post 1 mile north of GRUITRODE while the 1st Platoon running patrols north to the vicinity of BREE to contact the British. The 2nd Platoon went into a defensive position on the road running east out of GRUITRODE toward NEERGLABBEEK, The 3rd Platoon remained in position at the road block between OPGLABBEEK and GRUITRODE. A German patrol infiltrated into GRUITRODE that night engaging a patrol from the 2nd Platoon. The Germans left two dead. An occasional round of artillery fell near the 2nd Platoon during the night.

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in area of WEIGERSBERG Woods north of BOEKT until 1130B at which time it moved out to new area one mile southwest of ZONHOVEN. 1st Platoon moved out at 0700B to reconnoiter road from ZONHOVEN to GENK. 1st Platoon received heavy artillery and mortar fire at TERMOLEN, and was forced to withdraw to take up a favorable defensive position. The platoon then joined the 2nd Platoon in outposting ZONHOVEN for the night. 2nd Platoon moved out at 0700B to same position it had reached the previously day. It again drew enemy small arms, anti-tank and rifle fire. Remained in observation and layed 75mm, mortar and artillery fire on the enemy positions. 2nd Platoon returned to ZONHOVEN at 1800B and outposted the town with the help of the 1st Platoon. 3rd Platoon moved out at noon to help reinforce “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion in attack on north bank of the Albert Canal. 3rd Platoon moved to ZONHOVEN acting as rear guard for “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. Returned to Company area at 2000B.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion reconnaissance patrols were kept active until 1200B. At 1430B “D” Company Light tanks pushed from the road junction south of ZONHOVEN with the scout section of the 3rd Platoon acting as dismounted security for the tanks. The Battalion Commander remained with the “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion during the fight and coordinated the movements of the reconnaissance platoon with the movement of the tanks. Soon after the tanks moved on the woods, 2nd and 3rd Platoon of “C” Company moved to the right and west of the road. The 3rd Platoon had the area between the highway and railroad with the 2nd Platoon to the west of the railway. The two platoons moved off the highway at about 1500B and silenced the German 81mm mortars with their assault guns, then proceeded to clear the area of German troops. This was a very difficult task in as much as the Germans had to be taken individually from their foxholes. 83 prisoners were taken by the two platoons and by 1930B the area west of ZONHOVEN-HASSELT highway, from ZONHOVEN to the railway junction north of the canal had been cleared. The 1st Platoon worked the area east of the highway, but were held on the secondary road in this area by road blocks and dismounted men. Wounded in action on September 12th were: Private First Class Bowen, Sergeant Pfeifer, Sergeant Gleason, Private Arndt, Corporal Nichols, Private Wathey, Private Voris, Corporal Woodard, Corporal Terry. Private Bowen was wounded when he and Corporal Terry went into a home to clear it of snipers. The German snipers laid under a blanket and threw a grenade that wounded Bowen and Terry. Terry carried Bowen to safety, then returned and killed the German with two hand grenades. After seeing that Bowen was properly cared for, terry had his wound dressed and continued to fight. At 2100B the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was relieved of the mission by elements of the 41st Armored Infantry and returned to the WEIGERSBERG Woods north of BOEKT for the night.

At 0630B, 3rd Platoon “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved out to secure a pontoon bridge built by the 17th Armored Engineers about 3 miles south of BERINGEN. At 1200B the “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion received the mission of attacking German position north of HASSELT, secure cross roads north of Albert Canal and then move east. The three platoons were relieved of their missions and rejoined the Company in an assembly area about 3 miles south of Company bivouac about 1330B. At 1445B the 1st, 2nd and 3rd platoons moved out on their new mission. They had air and artillery support. “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was operating on the flanks. Almost immediately small arms fire and anti-tank fire was met. “D” Company lost one tank and had two more hit. One man was injured and one man wounded. The lead platoon was finally stopped at a mine field covered by anti-tank fire. It was dark when the mines had be lifted and the company was relieved by elements of Combat Command “B” and moved to bivouac 2 miles northwest of ZONHOVEN. “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion took 10 prisoners, killed 7 enemy. Destroyed one bus, and one truck, three sedans and seven anti-tank guns.

13 September 1944

Headquarters Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained at the same place as the previously day. The 1st Platoon went north and east to the town of OPITTER, driving the enemy out of the town inflicting casualties and setting up an Observation Post to observe the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal. Position of Observation Post had to be shifted because of heavy artillery fire. After considerable difficulty, artillery support came from the British to the north but the fire was not very effective. The 2nd Platoon sent a patrol due east through NEERGLABBEEK to WATERLOOS from the wooded area south of WATERLOOS. The patrol was able to count 186 Germans washing clothes and basking in the sun around a house. A British reconnaissance officer assisted and the platoon was put into position to fire, one vehicle at a time. After mortars were set up, ammunition laid out and available weapons made ready for fire, the platoon opened fire with very devastating effect as the Germans were not prepared nor were they dug in. Due to the terrain and to 88mm guns across the canal, it was impossible to overrun the position. The platoon then withdrew leaving an Observation Post. This Observation Post reported that at least 150 casualties were inflicted and that German first aid men were carrying the Germans across the flat to the canal all afternoon. This position was saturated by German artillery and 88mm guns firing air-bursts. It is believed that the 88mm guns could not depress sufficiently to actually hit this spot. The Observation Post had to be shifted slightly. The 2nd Platoon, later in the day , drove a German patrol out of WATERLOOS. The 2nd Platoon then withdrew when WATERLOOS was shelled by the Germans. The 3rd Platoon remained in position killing three Germans when the enemy sent forward a patrol. The 3rd Platoon also received several rounds of artillery believed to be coming from one gun located to the south.

Headquarter Platoon “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in the area one mile southwest of ZONHOVEN until 1300B at which time the Headquarters Platoon moved to new area at one and one-half miles southeast of TERMOLEN. The entire “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion assembled at 1400B. 1st Platoon moved to TERMOLEN to cover the movement of Combat Command “A” in its attack on GENK. Reconnoitered the right flank of Combat Command “A” and rejoined “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion again at 1400B. 2nd Platoon moved again to position occupied on the previous two days drew only small arms fire. 2nd Platoon moved into enemy position when 3rd Platoon moved in on left flank. 2nd Platoon encountered 6 Teller Mines 300 yards in front of enemy positions. 2nd Platoon rejoined “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion again at 1330B. 3rd Platoon moved east through woods along north bank of Albert Canal to pick up enemy stragglers. Scout section removed 8 teller mines and took one prisoner. One ¼ ton truck was destroyed by enemy mines.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to BERKENEN at first light. The Command Post of “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was set up near BERKENEN. The 1st Platoon made contact with the British at HELCHTEREN and maintained this liaison through the day. The 2nd and 3rd Platoon pushed reconnaissance to the east and made enemy contact in a wooded area 1 ½ miles north of WINTERSLAG. The two platoons set up strong outpost and remained in position for the night. The area was shelled by our artillery and the enemy withdrew during the night.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved at 1645B to a new near GRUITRODE. Arrived at 1900B. “A” and “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion were given the mission of clearing enemy out of territory from DORNE to the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal. Battalion Executive commander joined “D” Company in that area and was in charge of the clearing operation.

14 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was to move south with “D” Company attached creating a diversion of the north flank of the enemy, clearing out OPGLABBEEK and OPOETEREN, cutting road between those points and if possible cutting the main road running east and west between AS and the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal. The Battalion Executive Officer, Major Girard, came up with “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. The 3rd Platoon initially remained at the road block. The 1st and 2nd Platoon each with a light tank platoon from “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion attached moved east through NEERGLABBEEK running into a road block approximately 1 kilometer east of that point. The 2nd Platoon remained to reduce or by-pass the road block and then move into OPOETEREN. The 1st Platoon with attached light tanks moved cross country through the forest and arrived at OPOETEREN. The 2nd Platoon arrived at OPOETEREN first, having removed the road block which proved to be lightly defended by small arms. The 2nd Platoon with attached light tank platoon met resistance in the form of small arms fire at OPOETEREN. They inflicted probably a dozen casualties and took a few prisoners. The 1st Platoon assisted in closing in of OPOETEREN and taking the prisoners. At this point, artillery began to fall in OPOETEREN and the 1st Platoon withdrew. The 1st Platoon moved around the OPOETEREN to the right to continue its mission and to cut the road leading into OPEOETEREN. In the large open low land west of OPOETEREN, the 1st Platoon encountered the enemy dug in in well camouflaged fox holes. The enemy had a number of machine guns and bazookas and the personnel made up of approximately one quarter paratroopers and the remainder air force, fought quite well. Most of them were killed in their holes by 75mm WP smoke and hand grenades. There were 23 known to be killed and four wounded. 40 prisoners were taken in this locality. The light tank platoon which was attached to the 1st Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion had remained with the other light tank platoon which was attached to the 2nd Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion during this action, and rejoined the 1st Platoon and they consolidated their position to hold OPOETEREN and the road net. The 2nd Platoon and its attached tank platoon returned to GRUITRODE. The 3rd Platoon moved around the road block and into OPGLABBEEK where they encountered a small enemy patrol which withdrew. The 3rd Platoon moved east to DORNE then by trails to DORNER HEIDE. All roads from that point were heavily mined with wooden mines which would explode when an effort was made to remove them. The 3rd Platoon then returned to DORNE. The 2nd Platoon pushed through the forest to within one and one-half miles of the main highway running east from AS. Here they dismounted and proceeded to the highway on foot, discovering that the advance elements of Combat Command “A”, 2nd Armored Division had already arrived there. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion assembled at DORNE for the night with the exception of the 1st Platoon which remained at OPOETEREN. During the days operation Private 1st Class Supple was slightly wounded in action and was evacuated.

“B”, Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion platoons reconnoitered routes to OPGRIMBIE. “B” Company moved to that point arriving at 1930B. OPGRIMBIE was outposted during the night.

Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion with 3rd Platoon in reserve moved from BERKENEN via ZONHOVEN, WINTERSLAG-CITE, WATERSCHEI, WATERBLEEK to ZUTENDAAL. The 1st Platoon moved at first light from BERKENEN to the wooded area 3 miles north of WINTERSLAG to OPGLABBEEK and then further to AS. 1st Platoon joined the remainder of “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at WATERSCHEI. 1st Platoon encountered several mine fields and road blocks but did not make enemy contact. The 2nd Platoon was move south of the wooded area north of WINTERSLAG, but encountered road blocks and mine fields. Sergeant Heppy, the platoon sergeant was wounded while attempting to open a railroad gate that had been mined and booby trapped. The 2nd Platoon was ordered to withdraw and joined the Headquarters Platoon at WATERSCHEI. The platoons outposted the ZUTENDAAL area for the night.

1st and 2nd Platoon, “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion attached to “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion performed reconnaissance south and southeast of GRUITRODE. They met small arms fire in the vicinity of OPOETEREN. 3rd Platoon cleared road block and mine field from road between GRUITRODE and OPOETEREN. Some artillery fire fell in OPOETEREN. One man was slightly wounded. At 1945B “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to a new bivouac at DORNE. The 3rd Platoon returned to the Company and outposted the bivouac area of Headquarters Platoon.

15 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was to locate the enemy west of the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal, establish Observation Posts to keep the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal under observation, maintained contact with the British and to patrol the area from the highway to the east out of AS, to the first British positions which could usually be found around BREE about 18 kilometers to the north. The 2nd Platoon maintained contact with the British and established Observation Posts near OPITTER and in the woods near WATERLOOS. These Observation Posts were frequently shelled and on three occasions patrols of “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion encountered enemy patrols in WATERLOOS and inflicted casualties. The Germans could be observed across the Zuid Willemsvaart canal near TONGERLO. The enemy destroyed by shell fire the church steeples in OPPITER and WATERLOOS which we had been using as Observation Posts. The 3rd Platoon was located down the road toward the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal near DE SMETS BERG southeast of WATERLOOS. From an observation post there, the Germans could be seen on the west side of the Zuid Willemsvaart canal near the blown bridge in considerable strength of at least 250 or more men. As the roads which might have been used to flank them were either mined or exposed to direct fire of artillery and 88mm guns from across the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal and the terrain was not suitable for cross country movement, there was little that the 3rd Platoon could do. The enemy frequently fired his mortars and artillery at positions that he thought were being occupied. The enemy also fired air bursts over the 3rd Platoon position with 88mm guns. Late in the day the 3rd Platoon engaged the enemy in a fire fight. The light tanks of “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion had been detached and left “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion that morning.

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained at OPGRIMBIE until 1500B at which time it moved to an new bivouac area two and one-half miles east of AS . The entire “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was assembled at that point for the night. 1st Platoon was assigned mission of clearing woods west of OPGRIMBIE. This mission was completed and the 1st Platoon rejoined the remainder of the Company in its new assembly area at 1500B. 2nd Platoon was assigned mission of clearing woods south of AS. 4 prisoners were captured in that vicinity. 2nd Platoon then rejoined the Company at is assembly area west of AS at 1400B. 3rd Platoon was assigned the mission of clearing woods northeast of OPGRIMBIE. After the mission was completed 3rd Platoon also joined the remainder of the Company in assembly at 1400B at two and one-half miles east of AS.

”C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was ordered to clear the area between PIETERSHEIM and DAALWEZET west to the AS - BILSEN highway to enemy troops. 18 enemy soldiers were located in this area and captured. At 1630B on completion of the above mission the “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to OPGLABBEEK and outposted the roads to the north and east of OPGLABBEEK. Road blocks were constructed by “D” Company, 17th Armored Engineers Combat Battalion, 2nd Armored Division.

1st and 2nd Platoons returned to “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. The 2nd and 3rd Platoon checked on bridges along the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal and found them all blown. At 1430B, 1st Platoon received mission of outposting the town of AS. At 1630B “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to one-half mile east of AS.

16 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion mission was the same as the previous day. As no artillery or infantry was available the three assault guns were put in battery about 1000 yards west of OPOETEREN and from the observation post in the church steeple and from the observation post near DE SMETS BERG the three assault guns harassed the main group of the enemy about 1000 yards southeast of DE SMETS BERG. They also fired on the foot bridge over the Zuid Willemsvaart canal, on the ferry and at any targets of opportunity seen by any of the two observation posts The number of casualties inflicted is unknown.

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained at the assembly area two and one-half miles east of AS until 1615B. Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was moved to area at K447675. 1st Platoon was assigned mission of holding town of MAASMECHELEN. 1st Platoon set up a defensive position and sent patrols out towards the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal to detect enemy movement. 1st Platoon received heavy artillery and mortar fire during the night. 2nd Platoon outposted the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal, 3 miles north of EISDEN Collieries.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved from OPGLABBEEK at about 1130B and arrived at NEERHAREN at 1315B and outposted the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal from MAASMECHELEN (exclusive) to PIETERSHEIM (inclusive). All bridge sites in this area were placed under observation and the 1st Platoon crossed the bridge at TOURNEBRIDGE with one section. Lieutenant Hanson, 1st Platoon leader, made contact with friendly troops at MAASTRICHT. The 2nd Platoon outposted at the road junction and bridge northeast of PIETERSHEIM was shelled by mortars and Technician 5th Grade Norris and Private First Class Payne were wounded. The 1st Platoon outpost at NEERHAREN received shell fire at about 1800B, but received no casualties. 9 German prisoners were taken today.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion left at 1400B the bivouac near AS and moved to an new bivouac area one-half mile northwest of MAASMECHELEN. 1st Platoon attached to Company “B”, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and set up outpost along the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal north of MAASMECHELEN. This 1st Platoon ran into sniper fire and occasional mortar fire from across the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal.

17 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion ( no additional information about this day)

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in position as previous day. 1st Platoon move forward to place harassing fire on enemy across the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal. An undetermined number of enemy were killed and wounded. 1st Platoon then moved back to MAASMECHELEN under heavy mortar and artillery fire. This position was held during the night. 2nd Platoon was held in reserve and remained with the Company CP. 3rd Platoon harassed the enemy across the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal with 75mm, mortar and artillery fire. 3rd Platoon held this position during the night.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained at NEERHAREN and the platoons continued to outpost the Zuid Willemsvaart Canal. The day was quiet with exception of occasional sniper fire. 7 Germans were taken prisoner.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained at the bivouac area one-half mile northwest of MAASMECHELEN.

18 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion ( no additional information about this day ).

“B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was relieved of its mission, assembled and moved to MEERSSEN, Holland.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was relieved of its outpost duty at 1130B and the platoons were assembled. At 1235B the “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved via TOURNEBRIDGE to MAASTRICHT, Holland then crossed the MEUSE River and moved further northeast toward MEERSSEN. “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion bivouacked for the night at RAAR.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion left Belgium and moved to MAASTRICHT, Holland. “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion crossed the MEUSE River at MAASTRICHT and continued its move towards MEERSSEN. and bivouacked for the night at RAAR which is located one and one-half miles NE of MEERSSEN.

19 September 1944

“A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved at 0730B to MAASTRICHT, Holland crossed the MEUSE River at that point, then headed north toward BEEK where the company went into bivouac. “A” company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was in reserve the remainder of the day with the exception of the 3rd Platoon which moved out at approximately 1900B to guard an underpass one mile north of SITTARD.

Headquarters Platoon, “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion remained in the vicinity of MEERSSEN during the day. 1st Platoon moved to a position one mile north of GUTTECOVEN to hold road junction at that point. At 1300B 1st Platoon moved west to locate anti-tank guns firing on the 2nd Platoon. As 1st Platoon entered an orchard west of the road junction it came under heavy artillery fire and pulled back to road junction. Secured GUTTECOVEN for the night. 2nd Platoon relieved a platoon of the 67th Armored Regiment Reconnaissance Company one mile south of BORN. At this point 2nd Platoon came under considerable enemy artillery, anti-tank and mortar fire. 2nd Platoon moved in dismounted, under support of 75mm and mortar fire, seizing BORN and capturing 18 prisoners. Half a platoon of the 113th Cavalry Group and one platoon of “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion joined in holding BORN during the night.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved at first light from RAAR via BEEK, GELEEN, LUTTERADE to EINIGHAUSEN. Headquarters Platoon, “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion set up its Command Post in EINIGHAUSEN and 1st and 3rd Platoon set up an outpost line from SITTARD, northwest through LIMBRICHT to BEUKEBOOM. Patrols were active. The outpost received occasional anti-tank fire in the vicinity of LIMBRICHT and captured 12 prisoners during the day.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to a new location near HEKSENBERG which was located two miles east of URMOND. One section of the 2nd Platoon attached to “D” Company, 17th Armored Engineers and outposted the bridge at URMOND. The 3rd Platoon attached to “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and outposted the town of BORN.

20 September 1944

3rd Platoon, “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was relieved at 0800B by elements of the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron and returned to “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at BEEK. “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved out at 1030B for an new assembly area near KLIMMEN. After traveling a distance of 10 miles “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion reached its new assembly area at about 1130B. In the evening “A” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was placed on an alert status to move in the event of a German counterattack.

“B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was relieved by elements of the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron. The entire “B” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was assembled and moved with the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion to the new battalions assembly area near KLIMMEN.

“C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was relieved at first light by elements of the 113th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron. “C” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion assembled at 0900A and moved at 1035B from EINIGHAUSEN via HEKSENBERG, BEEK, KELMOND, OENSEL, ARENS-GENHOUT, and EMMABERG to the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion assembly area east of KLIMMEN.

“D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion moved to KLIMMEN at 1015B. the remainder of the day “D” Company, 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion conduct maintenance and rehabilitation of vehicles and personnel.

21 - 30 September 1944

All elements of the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion stayed in the area of KLIMMEN. During this rest period the time was spent in care and maintenance of vehicles, arms, and personal equipment. The newly assigned men were given instructions in the use of their assigned weapons. COPYRIGHT © ARNO LASOE, 2005