in the Attack on pillbox sector at Wahlerscheid, Germany
(Heartbreak Crossroads) - 13 - 16 December 1944
(Rhineland Campaign)
By Captain John A. Frye
LESSONS
Through this operation many lessons were reviewed and learned.
-
Surprise is always an effective and important principle to be employed whenever and wherever possible. Although a failure at the beginning, it was successful in the final phase of the operation.
-
The principle of cooperation stems from the basic two man outpost, where each man protects the other, and runs through all units to the largest. The cooperation of the 2nd and 3rd Battalions in a night infiltration, down to the small units reducing the pillboxes, is an excellent example of cooperation.
-
Movement is always necessary in the successful conduct of the attack. However, the proper control of this necessary principle is the key to the success of the operation. Control of all units during the approach and during the attack of this operation illustrates the principle of movement in art excellent manner.
-
Simplicity is of the utmost necessity in combat. This principle must be observed in all phases of planning, organization and execution. The difficult operation, brought to a successful conclusion through the efforts of the 2nd Battalion, was an example of simplicity from start to finish.
-
Proper objectives are definitely necessary in order to accomplish the mission assigned. Road junctions that control key areas are objectives of high priority.
-
It is possible to feed hot meals and bring blanket rolls forward under the most chaotic conditions, provided administrative and supply personnel are properly supervised and the proper coordinations are made with the tactical situation.
