CAMPAIGN OF THE RHINELAND
(Part I)
he war of pursuit was at an end. The Germans had reached the fringe of their prepared
positions and were now ready to extract a heavier price for advances. Enemy defenses in
this area consisted of a concrete wall 20 by 30 feet forming the first fortification line. In
front of this wall a strong outpost was maintained, manned by young, fanatical officer candidate
school members. Initial attacks by the Regiment against this strong line resulted in heavy
casualties and made it plain that a major effort would be required to break through. Weighing
the cost of such an operation against the immediate strategic advantage that would be gained,
brought the decision by Division that the Regiment would remain in its present general position
and serve as a containing force.
The next 16 days saw savage artillery and mortar duels and aggressive patrolling by both
sides, but no major offensive action. In addition to the almost constant artillery and mortar fire
which the men were subjected to, the rainy, cool weather was a factor to be reckoned with,
causing much discomfort and privation for the men who had to sit for days in rain-drenched
foxholes.
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