The 69th Signal Battalion, the "nerve system" of the Corps, kept the "brain" or Corps
Headquarters in constant contact with the encircling "arms" of the Corps units which were engaged in
choking off the fortified region of Metz. The wearers of the crossed flags had a rough job in repairing
wire knocked out by enemy artillery and in moving all over the Corps area in all kinds of weather with
scattered enemy groups harassing them.
The 819th Military Police Company and the various intelligence agencies made invaluable
contribution to the Corps effort in directing the heavy civilian population.
The numerous medical corps units, from the man with the Red Crosses on his helmet to the huge
field hospitals, were a smoothly functioning, mercy team. They were always there to relieve the
suffering and reduce the number of deaths from battle wounds and exposure.
The tiny, defenseless liaison planes were a familiar sight over the front lines, pinpointing enemy
gun batteries and strong points, and often coming to the rescue of isolated units with badly needed
supplies.
The battle for Metz was an operation on Corps level and its successful completion remains a
lasting tribute to a great fighting Corps.
Successful completion of a campaign had its aftermath of ceremonies and formations. This was
a great climax to the years of preparation by the XX Corps. The liberation of the historic city of Metz
brought further honors to the Corps, which already carried the famed battle streamers of Verdun,
Chateau-Thierry, and the Marne.
On the 29th of November, the French Government bestowed high tribute on General Walker
when he was made a member of the Legion of Honor, Officer Class at a great civic ceremony staged in
Metz.
At the same time, General Collier and Brigadier General Julius E. Slack, XX Corps Artillery
Commander, received the Legion of Honor, Knight Class.
Major General Andre Dody, Military Governor of Metz, made the awards in the Place de
Republique where thousands of people had gathered to witness the proceedings and cheer the parading
troops of France and the United States. These were the first American troops to be so honored by the
French Government.
Massed standards and banners of XX Corps divisions and regiments headed the big parade and
review, which was taken by General Walker. French and American military bands provided the music,
and the rumble of artillery fire in the distance provided additional sound effects.
Front line troops of XX Corps who participated in the capture of Metz were heartily applauded
by the populace. French Regular Army troops who took part in the parade made a fine showing.
After the general officers had received their decorations, the award of the Croix de Guerre with
Palm was made to Colonel Charles G. Meehan, Captain David W. Allard, Sgt. S. Bornstein, Captain
Guy de la Vasselais, Lt. Col. J. W. Libcke, and Colonel H. R. Snyder received the Croix de Guerre with
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