There were, at this time, reports of a German buildup in the vicinity of Merzig, and a
thrust south by the Germans would not be unlikely. Consequently, the Division went into a
temporary defensive position along a general line running from Merzig northwest to the Moselle
River at Beache. The 357th was in reserve, and on the 22nd moved 25 miles back into France to
an area in the vicinity of the Monneren. Counter-attack plans were prepared to enable the
Regiment to meet promptly any enemy penetration of the Division line.
Although the situation was tactical, advantage was taken of the time to get some much
needed rest. Hundreds of new reinforcements were received and were given valuable combat
training at the 90th Division training center, set up several miles to the rear.
On Christmas day, every man enjoyed a fine turkey dinner, the 2nd within a month.
This was a day for thanksgiving too, for other soldiers north were not so fortunate.
By the 5th of January, it was evident that the German threat from the north would not
materialize. Defensive ideas were scrapped and thoughts turned to the offensive again. The
Regiment was now up to full strength again and ready to go in every respect.
The swollen Moselle, the approach to the river A demolished Maginot fort near Koenigsmacher
Mined barbed wire entanglements which covered Smoke pots helped screen th Saar crossing site,
approaches to Forts were frequent in the area Taken from hill west of river, above Siersdorf
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