23rd Infantry | War Diary | June 1944 - Sons of Liberty Museum

HEADQUARTERS TWENTY THIRD INFANTRY

Names of Commanding Officers at outset of combat.

Regtl. C.O. Col. Hurley E. Fuller
Regtl. Ex Off Lt Col. James J. Mathews
O.O. 1st Bn Lt Col. William S. Humphries
O.O. 2nd Bn Lt Col. Raymond B. Marlin
O.O. 3rd Bn Lt Col. John B. Naser

Regtl. Hq. Co. Capt. Raymond W. Laycock Service Co. Capt. O. Charles Huber, Jr. Cannon Co. Capt. Charles F. Baker Antitank Co. 1st Lt. Roy G. McCracken Med. Det. Maj. Martin Israel Hq. Co. 1st Bn. Capt. John M. Stephens, Jr. Co. A Capt. Kay K. Cowan Co. B Capt. Jack W. Tucker Co. C Capt. Sidney L. Harry Co. D Capt. Dan R. Jaglowski Hq. Co. 2d Bn. 1st Lt. Henry L. Calder, Jr. Co. E Capt. William A. Smith Co. F Capt. Earl G. Kerback Co. G Capt. Morris B. Montgomery Co. H Capt. Howard O. Alphson Hq. Co. 3d Bn. Capt. William E. Dugan Co. I Capt. Jimmie E. Anderson Co. K 1st Lt. Cloyd M. Lyon Co. L Capt. Rodney A. Seydel Co. M Capt. Stephen E. Kyne

HEADQUARTERS TWENTY THIRD INFANTRY

Changes in command since outset of combat.

Regtl C.O. - Lt Col J. B. Lovless since 2030 16 June 44 vice Col Hurley E. Fuller. Regtl Ex Off - Lt Col William S. Humphries, 1735 13 June to 18 June vice Lt Col James J. Mathews. Lt Col Maxwell C. Snyder, 1800 23 June to present vice Lt Col Humphries

1st Bn - Maj Henry G. Spencer, 1735 15 June to 19 June vice Lt Col Humphries Lt Col William S. Humphries 1830 18 June to 21 June vice Maj Spencer Maj John M. Hightower III, 1630 21 June to present vice Lt Col Humphries Co A - 1st Lt William D. Fugit, 1100 15 June to 22 June vice Capt Kay K. Cowan Capt Douglas A. Forteous 1500 23 June to present vice 1st Lt Fugit Co B - No change Co C - 1st Lt Vera E. McClement 0930 16 June to present vice Capt Sidney L. Harry. Co D - 1st Lt Jack S. Courson 1000 16 June to 25 June vice Capt Dan R. Jaglowski. Capt Arthur F. Tate, 1700 25 June to present, vice 1st Lt Courson.

2nd Bn - No Change Co E - No Change Co F - 1st Lt George H. Duckworth, 1030 15 June to present vice Capt Earl G. Kerback. Co G - 2d Lt John W. Fornaro, 1145 15 June to present vice Capt. Morris B. Montgomery. Co H - Capt James I. Notom, 0300 12 June to present, vice Capt Howard O. Alphson.

3rd Bn - No Change Co I - 1st Lt Robert S. Kennedy 1430 16 June to 20 June vice Capt Jimmie E. Anderson. 1st Lt Eugene E. Little 1306 20 June to 2 July, vice 1st Lt Kennedy. Capt James E. Forman, 1400 5 July to present vice 1st Lt Little. Co K - 1st Lt George H. Mitchell 1500 16 June to present vice 1st Lt Cloyd M. Lyon. Co L - 1st Lt Bertrand M. Lester, 1635 19 June to present vice Capt Rodney A. Seydel. Co M - No Change.

8 June 1944

The 23d Infantry, less motors and personnel aboard motor transport vessels, began debarkation from A.T.S. Exchequer at 2000 B hours, in order, Headquarters Company (Regt) plus M.P. Platoon, A.T. Company, Cannon Company, Medical Detachment, 1st, 2d, 3d Bn., Regimental Headquarters, and Headquarters Company landed on Easy White beach, from an L.C.I., at 2355 B hours, 8 June 1944, thus landing the leading elements of the regiment on D-plus 2 as scheduled. Other units followed in the order shown above in fairly rapid succession. Little difficulty was encountered in movement to an assembly area located in the vicinity of St. Laurent Sur-Mer. Units of the regiment dug in and reconnaissance by all commanders of roads forward of the assembly area began immediately. Some sniper fire was encountered on the edges of the assembly area. No snipers were killed or captured. The Regimental C.P. was located in the town of St. Laurent Sur-Mer, France.

9 June 1944

All units closed in to assembly area in vicinity of St Laurent Sur-Mer at 1300 B hours. Unit commanders continued reconnaissance of roads south toward Trevieres. 23d Infantry was officially notified that it was in Division reserve, pending arrival and unloading of heavy weapons and motors. Numerous contacts were made with officers in charge of traffic at the beach. No information was available with reference to the unloading of vehicles. F.O. #2, Hq 2d Inf. Div. received at 0900 B hours, directing that 2d Div. would make the main effort of V Corps with the mission of gaining that part of the V Corps objective within the Division zone. 23d Infantry designated as division reserve. Mission of the V Corps was to seize and organize for defense in depth the Isigny-Neuilly La Foret-Lison-Le Molay-Balleroy line; moving abreast with divisions abreast; 29th on the right, 1st Div. on the left. V Corps attacked at 1200 B hours. 23d Infantry remained in assembly area all day. Units turned in to 8-2 large quantities of German equipment abandoned in the area. Some abandoned German weapons were found. The majority of German equipment was clothing and individual equipment hurriedly abandoned. During the day much allied air activity was carried on over the area. Enemy planes were heard at night with heavy friendly ack ack fire from the beach area.

G-2 reports during the day indicated that V Corps was opposed by 513th Schnelle Bn, 352d Inf. Div., 17th SS Panzer Div., and 30th Schnelle Brigade. Enemy concentration was reported to be generally south and southeast of Trevieres, that town being held largely by snipers. One report indicated that enemy patrols were infiltrating through our lines follow and anti-personnel mines along roads previously cleared. This report was not confirmed.

Initial loss report showed one man of Co. E killed while debarking from A.T.S. Exchequer. No other casualties were reported.

10 June 1944

Regiment still in assembly area in vicinity of St. Laurent Sur-Mer awaiting debarkation of weapons and motors. No word from Executive Officer, with motor elements received by 0100. First vehicles arrived in assembly area without prior notice at 0300. At 1220 B hours verbal order were received from Chief of Staff to send one (1) company to Treviers to relieve Co. E, 38th Infantry, with the mission of outposting the town and prevent the infiltration of snipers back into the town. Letter of instruction received at 2320 B directing the 23d Infantry to be prepared to move to the S by marching in event transportation was not received by 0900 B, 11 June 1944. Transportation continued to be unloaded slowly throughout the day. Beginning at 2300 B enemy air activity increased over the area with some bombing in assembly area. One (1) casualty reported from 3d Bn. G-2 reported enemy withdrawing to S, breaking contact. Enemy activity on our front lines consisted only of sniping and patrolling, with the exception of tenacious defense of the road intersection at Haute Littee.

Company K on verbal orders of Commanding General relieved Company C, 9th Infantry with mission of clearing out snipers in beach area between St. Laurent Sur-Mer and Vier-ville-Sur-Mer. Mission particularly hazardous, the snipers were hidden in long tunnels in the cliffs and the entrances were mined with German "S" (anti-personnel) mines.

11 June 1944

Transportation closed in to assembly area at 0200 B. Regiment began movement by motor and marching to assembly area southeast of Tournieres. Regimental Command Post was located at Tournieres. Verbal orders were received from Commanding General, 2d Infantry Division that the 2d Division would attack at 120600 B with 23d Infantry on the right of the division with the mission of occupying the high ground in vicinity of St. George d'Elle. F.O. #1, was issued at 2000 B hours. The Regimental Command Post moved to Cerisy La Foret at 2300 B hours objective on the left of the division zone without encountering organized resistance.

12 June 1944

Forward Command Post moved to new location S of Cerisy LE Foret at coordinates 614595, Map FBGS France, Sheets 6/F, 1/50,000, at 0530. 1st and 2d Bns crossed LD at 0600 after a 20 minute artillery preparation. At 0700, C.O. 1st Bn reported satisfactory progress, as did C.O. 2d Bn. Up until noon only slight enemy resistance was encountered in form of snipers using machine pistols. At 1305 B both forward battalions encountered stiff enemy resistance from organized positions. Company A and B were counter attacked at 1500 B by a force estimated to be a company. 2d Bn was commanded to hold Sois d'Elle, and were pinned down by heavy fire from left flank. 1st Bn, after repulsing counter attack N of Sois d'Elle, was pinned down and unable to advance. 1st Bn was attached to the 38th Inf, and 38th Inf. and Bn, 38th Inf attached to 23d Inf. at 1500 B due to location. 1st Bn reported being surrounded N of Lecois D'Elle but were able to fight out. Company A, during this action received unusually high number of casualties.

At 1747 battalions were ordered to organize positions for all around defense. To our front were identified units of the 3d, 5th and 8th Para Divisions.

13 June 1944

2d Bn received a strong enemy counter attack at 0150. Very heavy artillery fire by our own battalions was largely responsible for the failure of the counter attack. The counter attack was repulsed and area cleared of enemy by severe hand to hand combat by 0225. Activity during the day consisted of patrolling and preparation for attack up until 1700 B. At 1700 B 1st Bn, 38th Inf and 3d Bn, 23d Inf made a limited objective attack toward St George d'Elle, reaching their objectives at 0030 (15 June). They were ordered to dig in and hold positions gained at all costs. The limited objective attack enabled the division front to straighten its line along the front of the division zone. G-2 reports indicate that the enemy is bringing in reinforcements, probably additional elements of the 3d Para Div.

The enemy are beginning to fire in conjunction with our artillery in order to avoid location and possibly to make us suspect that our artillery is firing short.

Rear elements of the 23d Inf moved forward from Tournieres to a location approximately 800 yards in rear of the C.P. crowding forward due to pressure of troops landing in beach-head area.

The regiment was ordered to be prepared to attack on division order to secure portion of Div objective in vicinity of Hill 192. Attack did not materialize due to tank threat on southern front. Bns organized for all around defense during afternoon and evening. 1st Bn was ordered into div. reserve.

At 1840 a counter attack against elements of the 2d Bn began but was broken up by artillery fire. The enemy threw dummies into Fox holes and attacked with knives.

During the period 12 - 13 June 1944, the regiment captured 40 prisoners of war, principally members of the 352d German Infantry Div. The morale of that unit is considered very low, as opposed to the high morale of the Para Divisions located to our front as evidenced by the attitude of 2 or 3 P.W. from the 3d Para Div.

During this period the regiment suffered casualties as follows: a. One (1) officer killed. b. Ten (10) enlisted men killed. c. Eight (8) officers wounded. d. One hundred nineteen (119) enlisted men wounded.

Lt. Col. Mathews, the Regimental Executive Officer, was reported as missing in action on 12 June 1944. His body was found by members of the 1st Bn N of Bridge on 13 June. He had been shot in the back by what appeared to be a sniper bullet. He was dead when found. Immediate report of the circumstance was reported to higher headquarters.

14 June 1944

During the day there was very little activity. Enemy artillery activity was intermittent on front line troops and on roads and road junctions in rear of the front lines. At 1700 B hours the enemy attacked in battalion strength against our 3d Bn in the town of St. George d'Elle. The attack was repulsed after hitting the front and flank of the town. Two (2) enlisted P.W. were taken during the day. Interrogation revealed that the 2d Co., 5th Para Regt. was in our immediate front.

Five (5) enlisted men were killed by enemy mortar and artillery fire. One (1) officer and forty three (43) enlisted men were wounded.

15 June 1944

No further advance was made during the day. 1st Bn (atchd to 38th Inf) released to control of 23d Infantry. 1st Bn, 38th Inf (atchd to 23d Inf) released to Div control as Div reserve. Positions were organized and preparations made for an attack on 16 June 1944. Regt'l C.P. moved to new location in vicinity of the village of Fouss at coordinate 551676. F.O. #4, 2d Div. was received at approximately 0800, ordering regiment to advance on Div. order to seize high ground south of St. George d'Elle and prepare to advance to subsequent objective to S on Div. order. 3d Bn received a strong counter attack at St George d'Elle at 1745 forcing it to north edge of town.

F.O. #3, 23d Inf based upon Div Order mentioned above, was issued by the Regt'l Commander at 0415 at 2215 B hours.

Eleven (11) German enlisted men were captured during the day. No new identification of enemy units or activity was gained.

During this day the regiment lost three (3) officers and thirty (30) enlisted men killed and five (5) officers and fifty one (51) enlisted men wounded.

The weather during the day was fair and warm, with a slight overcast toward late afternoon. Nights are cold. Visibility has been only fair for the past few days.

16 June 1944

The 2d Bn attacked at 0800 B, initially meeting little resistance. However, after an advance of approximately 300 yards strong resistance was encountered on S & W banks on a stream in vicinity of St. George d'Elle. Company E succeeded in crossing stream of NW of Berigny and occupied the town. Company G forced a crossing of the stream and penetrated to a depth of 700 yards but were forced to withdraw after a heavy counter attack on its left rear. 3d Bn attacked at 0830 after a 15 minute artillery concentration. The advance, due to very strong enemy resistance in the draws S of St. George d'Elle, was limited to about 400 yards. At the close of the days operations both battalions occupied positions from which they had begun in the morning, except for Company E which continued to hold Berigny. Company E was then detached and attached to the 9th Inf on our left. Enemy artillery fire increased slightly during the day as did mortar fire, some of it 10 cm.

Enemy success in the area south of St. George d'Elle may be attributed to their well dug in positions in the draws south of the town and to their advantageous positions for observation from Hill 192.

In spite of the strong resistance encountered objective 2 of the Div was secured and held despite severe counter attacks.

One (1) German enlisted man was captured during the day enabling us to identify the 352d Arty Regt. This prisoner was captured behind our lines, claiming to have been there for several days.

During the day there was one (1) officer, one (1) enlisted man killed, thirteen (13) officers wounded, and seventy six (76) enlisted men wounded.

Colonel H.E. Fuller, who has commanded the 23d Infantry since December, 1941, was ordered to proceed to V Corps. Lt. Col. Jay B. Lovless was placed in command of the regiment. He joined and assumed command at 2030, 16 June 1944. Lt. Col. Lovless had prior service with the 2d Div, having commanded the 38th Inf for five months. He was G-3 of the 2d Div For A 9 months period and again for a period of 11 months. After this last period he reported to V Corps for duty as G-3, for a period of three months before his return to the Div.

17 June 1944

Very little activity other than patrolling to our front. A lull of several days is expected. Immediate preparations were begun to dig in the C.P. Three dug-outs were constructed in corners of a field adjacent to the present C.P. location. It is the intention of the C.O. that the dug-outs be used for night operations, continuing to utilize the old C.P. location during daylight hours. No counter attacks were experienced during the day in the sector of the regiment. Some artillery and mortar fire was received by front line troops. At approximately 2015 B enemy patrols were reported attempting to infiltrate through 3d Bn lines. One (1) German was killed, two (2) wounded and one (1) escaped our fire. Enemy artillery and mortar fire has tended to increase over the last two days. During this day, one (1) enlisted man was KIA, one (1) officer was WIA, and thirty eight (38) enlisted men were WIA. Casualties for the day may be attributed to the accuracy of enemy mortar fire, largely a result of excellent observation to our right front. They are looking right down our throats.

18 June 1944

Our activity was very slight all during the day. The Regt'l Commander had a meeting of Bn Commanders. He directed vigorous patrolling to obtain all information possible of the enemy to our front. Preparations were in progress throughout the day for an attack at 0800, 19 June 1944. The Regt'l Commander issued F.O. #4 for the attack at 1930, all Bn underseparate unit commanders present. Order was issued in vicinity of C.P.

Some artillery and mortar fired by the enemy was received by front line troops during the day. Intermittent artillery fell along ridge and along road approximately 350 yard east of C.P. No damage to C.P. or personnel. The regiment received 30 EM wounded during the period.

19 June 1944

Artillery fire fell on Company I at approximately 0243 B hours. Six casualties resulted.

Attack, with 1st Bn in elm of Cos, jumped off at 0800 B as planned. The 1st Bn initially reported light resistance, mostly from light automatic weapons. Division attack jumped off as planned. 1st Bn received heavy arty fire beginning at 0835 B hours. At 0857 B Company B was reported to be about half way to their objective and still advancing. At 0920 B, Company B overcame resistance which had pinned it down along LD and began advance to S. At 0947 B 1st Bn reported an Enemy gun at 577642B had fired on 1st Bn Command group, wounding Major Spencer, the Battalion Commander. Major Spencer, after receiving first aid returned to the front. It was necessary to evacuate him later in the afternoon. Lt Col Humphries, Regt'l Exec., officially assumed command of the battalion. 1st Bn reported receiving heavy fire from S slope of Hill 192. Our artillery fired heavily on all points where enemy fire was reported. Difficulty all during the day was encountered with keeping intact wire communication to C.P. 1st Bn, due to heavy mortar and artillery fire. It became necessary to send out regt'l wire teams to maintain it. These men, working under constant fire from enemy mortars and artillery, were successful in maintaining 90% constant communication with C.O. 1st Bn. At 1149 B, 1st Bn reported their C.P. under fire from machine pistols and small arms. Company A was moved up as C.P. security. Medium tanks, Company C, 741st Tank Bn, were ordered forward at this time. Diversion attack by 3d Bn report receiving mortar fire at 1353 B. An estimated 60 casualties was reported from 1st Bn at 1446 B. An additional 80 casualties were reported by 1st Bn at 1715. Company A, suffered heavy losses. Many men MIA at the moment. At 1955 B, Chief of Staff instructed C.O. that no plans for further forward movement were imminent; to organize tight defensive position within gained Bn area; protect division right flank; conduct sniping; actively patrol in force in order to inflict tangible destruction to enemy personnel. After position reports had been received by regiment, the C.O. accepted positions as shown for the night but directed that further dispersion to the N.E. would be necessary on the following day. At 2228, Cannon Co. report enemy artillery falling approximately 300 - 400 yards N. of Cannon Co. C.P.

No prisoners were taken during the days operation. One (1) officer was killed in action. Ten (10) officers and one hundred and sixty two (162) enlisted men were wounded.

20 June 1944

Enemy activity during the day was limited to sporadic mortar and artillery fire. Our patrols, operating to the front, were held up by M.G., M. pistol, and rifle fire. 3d Bn patrol returning at 0325 B reported enemy in force to the front, but neither captured any enemy personnel nor gained any specific information. 1st Bn patrol returned at 0410. Gained no information but drew heavy M. pistol and M.G. fire.

Civil affairs officer now operating in Cerisy La Foret, reports condition of civilian population as favorable.

A meeting of Bn Commander was held at C.P. at 1500. The Division Commander was present and received report from each Bn Commander as to their situations. The necessity for constant communication was stressed. Regt'l Commander required that a call be made from Bns to Regt one half hour after jumping off in an attack to assure that communications are in. Hourly reports will be made thereafter. Dispersion of troops was likewise stressed. Active, vigorous patrolling at night was directed. The offensive spirit must be maintained at all times. The meeting ended at 1730 B hours.

During the period two (2) officers were reported KIA as well as two (2) enlisted men. The regiment lost eighteen (18) EM wounded in action.

21 June 1944

Activity was slight during the entire day. At 1404 B, 1st Bn reported that Lt. Col. Humphries had been seriously wounded while on reconnaissance with C.O. 37th F.A. He was immediately evacuated to the Div. Clearing Company. His condition was reported as critical. The Regimental Commander ordered Maj. Hightower to assume command of the 1st Bn. Maj. Hightower assumed command at 1430.

Beginning at approximately 1820 enemy artillery began falling within 300 - 400 yards of the Regt'l C.P. No rounds landed in the C.P. area proper. Sporadic artillery fire was received during the entire day.

At 1400 Lt. Wighton, Co. C, left Bn area with a patrol consisting of 1 squad and 1 bazooka team. Contact with 3d Bn was made and patrolling coordinated between the patrols. On return route the patrol received mortar fire. Lt. Wighton was killed and one (1) EM of the patrol wounded. The patrol accomplished its mission of contacting and coordinating patrolling with 3d Bn.

A patrol of 1 Sgt. and 6 other EM left area of 2d Bn at 1200 to set up O.P. and observe to the right of the sector. The patrol returned at 2000, reporting having observed 1 squad of Germans move from a house to a dug out. Fire was placed on enemy position. Patrol reported 4 Germans killed, 4 wounded.

A patrol under command of Lt. Brucks left Co. F area at 0030 B to ambush enemy. Returned at 0430 B to report no enemy ambushed or observed.

Six patrols from 3d Bn were sent out during the day and night with no concrete results. A number of enemy as well as our own dead were found and recovered. One patrol made sufficient contact with enemy to hear talking but were unable to bring the enemy under fire.

During the day no enemy personnel were captured. One (1) officer and 37 EM were WIA; one (1) officer and one (1) EM, KIA.

22 June 1944

Enemy activity during the day was limited to mortar fire and automatic weapon fire along the front. Active patrolling by our troops continued throughout the day and night. Patrols are meeting stiff resistance along all routes, mortar and automatic weapon fire preventing movement into enemy lines. The bulk of enemy artillery fire is received during the hours of darkness, with some registration during daylight. Observers reported having seen Germans wearing American helmets and fatigue jackets. Co. B reported hearing motorized equipment to their front at 0208 B. The type and number were unknown. No further confirmation was received. At 0437 B, Div G-2 reported that word had been received that the password and reply had been compromised. No explanation was received. The alternate was put into effect immediately. Some enemy air activity was reported in the early morning. Enemy planes were sighted by 2d Bn flying in a NE direction. 3d Bn reported the return of two (2) men of Co. L who had been pinned down for five (5) days between our and the enemy lines. They reported being pinned down at coordinates 587660 approximately. Reported two enemy M G's approximately 40 yards to their front and one M.G. about 40 yards to their left.

During the entire day our artillery has been "serenading" the German positions. A "serenade" consists of one round from each artillery piece of the division, fired simultaneously at one target. It has proved effective in silencing, for a time, at least, enemy mortars located in target areas.

At 2355 B, 1st Bn reported a strong German patrol operating against Co. A, and Co B. The exact strength of this partol was unknown. Some casualties were reported inflicted on the patrol.

No prisoners were taken during the day. Two (2) officers and 40 EM were wounded during the period.

23 June 1944

There was very little activity during the day. The regiment improved its position and maintained active partolling to the front and flanks.

Previously omitted in this history is the fact that Co. C, less one (1) platoon, of the 81st Chem Bn (4.2 mortars) have been attached to the regiment since 13 June 1944. The company is commanded by 1st Lt. Gates. At the present time Co. C, 741st Tank Bn is also attached. Co. E, 23d Inf. has been detached from the regiment and atchd to the 9th Inf. on our left, due to their position.

At 0335 B, 1st Bn report the Germans had sent up flares over Co. B area. During the time the flare was over the area, Co. B received enemy MG fire. This procedure is typical of German night tactics.

The Regt'l commander has not been satisfied with the results of patrol action. It must be more vigorous in patrolling and bring back specific information relative to enemy gun emplacements, layout of enemy defensive positions, terrain features, etc.

At 1245 B, Lt. Col. Snyder joined the regiment as executive officer. Lt. Col. Snyder had previous service with the 2d Div as a member of the 9th Inf. For the past five (5) months he has been assigned to FUSA as Ground Liason Officer with the 9th T.A.C.

At 1820 B, the O.F. of Co I reported small arms fire being received from hedgerow to immediate front at coordinates 589660. A squad was immediately sent forward to investigate with the result that an estimated 40 to 60 Germans, wearing American helmets and fatigue jackets, were in firing position along the hedgerow. The squad of Co I brought them under fire to cover the withdrawol of the O.P.

Documents obtained today from enemy dead found in the area have enabled us to determine that the 2d Inf Co, 2d Recon Bn, 2d Para Corps, is operating to our front.

Reports from observers and from Div G-2 indicate that the enemy is continuing to improve his defenses along our front.

A patrol under command of 1st Lt. C.E. Smith, with 12 EM left Co. F area to patrol open right flank of the 2d Bn in order to clear area of snipers and prevent infiltration of enemy patrols. No enemy observed in the area. Patrol left area at 1300 B and returned, without losses, at 1700 B.

Patrol of 6 EM, commanded by Lt. Bailey, Co. G, left area at 1330 B, and returned at 1700 B without locating any enemy personnel or installations.

No prisoners were taken during the period. Three (3) EM were KIA and 40 EM WIA during the day and night. No losses were suffered by our patrols. Loss shown above were received from enemy artillery and mortars, which continue to have excellent observation from hill 192.

24 June 1944

The regiment continued to improve its position and to patrol actively to the front and on the flanks. At 0030 B, 2d Bn 81mm mortar platoon report having scored hits on an enemy ammunition dump located at 590654. Hits were evidenced by heavy black smoke rising from that area. At 0050, B Co. reported that a strong enemy patrol had driven in their out post at 0030 B. No further information concerning this enemy patrol was received. At 0237 B this morning, our first case of wire tapping was reported. The tapping was discovered before any enemy action could result from the tapping. The wire tapped was between the 1st and 3d Bn along a lateral line. A new wire was laid over a different route.

The Commanding General arrived at the C.P. at 1105 to award two (2) decorations and to discuss the situation with Lt. Col. Lovless, the C.O. The award of the Silver Star Medal was made to 2d Lt. James H. Bihlmire, Co. X, 23d Inf. for his actions in the attack of 12 June 1944. Lt. Bihlmire, under heavy fire, reorganized the remnants of his and another platoon, both of which had suffered heavy casualties. He continued forward movement until his unit was well in advance of the battalion and in the town of St. George d'Elle. His unit killed at least thirty (30) Germans during the action.

The award of the Bronze Star Medal was made to Tec 4 Marvin D. Kennedy, 38068394, Med. Det., 23d Inf. for meritoreous service on 13 June 1944 near St. Quenten, France. Tec 4 Kennedy, in spite of wounds received, refused to be evacuated with other wounded and continued to carry out his duties as aid man until forced to return to the rear by orders of a superior. In twenty four (24) hours he had returned to carry on his duties in the same efficient manner.

Information was also received today of the posthumous award of the Silver Star Medal to Pfc Tom B. Preston, Hq Co., 3d Bn, 23d Inf. for his valorous efforts to rescue a burning jeep from an area under heavy artillery fire and close to an Amm D.P. Pfc Preston lost his life when a shell exploded before he could remove the jeep.

One further posthumous award of the Silver Star Medal was announced today. The award to Pfc Richard Spencer, Co. E, 23d Inf. was made for his contribution to the advance of his Company his MG was supporting in the attack of 16 June 1944, when Pfc Spencer continued firing his MG, knowing his position was exposed to enemy fire. He lost his life as a result of his strict attention to duty.

At 1240 B a P-47 airplane with British marking dived and strafed close to the C.P. Area. A later report from Air Corps channels claimed the plane to be an ME-109 with Allied markings.

During the late afternoon Co. I reported, on three different occasions, heavy enemy mortar fire in their area. Casualties were very light.

During this period no enemy prisoners were taken. Six (6) EM were KIA; one (1) officer and eighteen (18) EM were WIA.

Patrolling after dark was active on our part. However, patrols met with little success in attempting to capture or rout out the enemy.

25 June 1944

During the day the units of the regiment remained in positions occupied since 19 June 1944, improving them and maintaining active patrolling to the front and flanks.

As of this date the regiment has attached to it Co. C (1 plat), 81st Cml Bn, 1 plat, Co A, 81st Cml Bn, and Co C, 741st Tank Bn. Co. E remains detached and attached to the 9th Inf. on our left. The company attached from the 81st Cml Bn is equipped with the 4.2 in Cml mortar.

A patrol of one (1) NCO and three (3) EM of Co K left area at midnight. Its mission was to make a reconnaissance to locate enemy installations and discovered enemy habits. The patrol observed a MG nest and enemy trucks moving in the vicinity. Patrol returned at 260230 B. Another patrol reported the Germans using dry foliage in front of their O.P.'s to detect approach of anyone in front of O.P. The patrol was fired on and returned fire. No casualties were sustained. The effect of our fire is unknown.

A patrol of Co F observed enemy detail working. Upon moving closer they heard them talking about the bad effects of our artillery fire. The leader of the patrol, Sgt Brownell, speaks and understands German. Other patrols reporting little enemy activity. No prisoners were captured.

At 0545 B the 2d Bn report that the 953d C.A. Bn had received some enemy fire.

The Regt'l Commander has instructed all battalions that fire of artillery and 4.2 in mortars must be cleared through regiment. It is his object to increase the use of those weapons in the battalions on targets which they can bring under fire without calling in heavier firing on those same targets. His system has already increased the use of heavy mortars in the battalions with good effect.

At 1515 B it was reported that our mortars had knocked out an enemy ammunition DP approximately 1000 yards from St. George d'Elle.

The 3d Bn, especially in the sector of Co K, is still receiving casualties from sniper fire.

During the day one (1) EM of Co K, was KIA as a result of the above mentioned sniper fire. Thirteen EM were WIA during the day.

26 June 1944

Activity today remained light in the sector of the 23d Inf. The regiment continued to improve its present positions, maintaining, throughout the day and night, active patrolling to the front and flanks. Reports received through G-2 Div sources today indicate the presence of the 2d SS Panzer Division in the St. Lo area, building up by minor moves over lesser roads during darkness.

Enemy mortar and artillery fire has been light and ineffective throughout the day. Our patrols continue to meet resistance at the enemy outpost line.

Rainfall was heavy during the day and most of the night. Visibility was very poor, as a result.

Expenditure of ammunition for all weapons has been cut to one third the normal. It is reported that unloading difficulties have been met for the past several days on the beach due to heavy seas running during the bad weather. Thus far it has not been necessary to exceed this limited allowance.

At 1205 B, 1st Bn Comdr, Maj. Hightower, report that a German MG had been located and mortar fire brought to bear on it. As the German gun crew withdrew, our MG's opened fire catching the crew completely in its fire.

At 1715 B the completion of exchange of 4.2 in mortar platoons was reported. One (1) platoon of Co. A, 81st Cml Bn, atchd to the 23d Inf. was exchanged for a platoon of Co. C, thus attaching all of Co C, 81st Cml Bn to the regiment.

Reports received today indicate a new trick used by the Germans. Trip wires have been found attached to flares. The enemy is also using more anti-personnel mines. He has had more time to set them in the static situation of the past few days. In the initial stages of these operations few have been encountered due largely to the rapidity of the enemy withdrawal from the beach area.

Word received from the Division Surgeon, Lt. Col. Cook, of the death from wounds received in action of Lt. Col. William S. Humphries. The death of Lt. Col. Humphries is felt deeply by all who knew him and worked with him. He was first and always the finest example of an officer and a gentleman. The regimental commander has recommended the posthumous award of the Silver Star Medal.

Reports from artillery and CF observers indicated quite a bit of enemy mortar movement to our front and left front. All units were alerted for a possible mechanized attack, especially likely at daylight. This attack did not materialize.

Our patrols have observed some activity on the part of the enemy to our front. Reports received indicate this activity to be largely digging; improving and consolidation of their defensive positions. One patrol during daylight observed a group of the enemy digging in and observing. Mortar fire was immediately place on them. Seven (7) Germans were reported killed or injured.

Two (2) EM were KIA as a result of sniper fire during the day. Eight (8) EM were wounded. No officers were either killed or wounded during the period. No prisoners were taken.

27 June 1944

During the day, light concentrations of enemy mortar and artillery fire fell on our front lines but caused no casualties or damage to our installations. The enemy reacted vigorously to our patrols but our patrols, backed by automatic weapon fire, were able to advance a slight distance farther that during the previous day.

A platoon of Co. B, 2d Engrs Bn has been attached to the regiment effective today. They will be used in conjunction with infantry and tanks in the forthcoming operation. Rear area training with Co. C and the tanks of Co. C, 741st Tank Bn, with the attached platoon of Engrs, will begin tomorrow in the vicinity of our Service Co. rear echelon. The coordinated squad tactics envelved by the C.O. will operate in the following manner: Employing one (1) infantry squad w/one tank, together with an engr team of four (4) men, one (1) LMG squad, and one (1) HMG squad, the tank will move from the LD, under cover of an artillery concentration, to its assault position behind a hedgerow. It will fire 75mm into the corners of the next hedgerow, at the same time spraying the top of the next hedgerow with MG fire. The infantry LMG's and HMG's will sweep the hedgerow, giving cover for the movement of the scouts, BAR riflemen, and sub-machine gun men across the field to the hedgerow. If necessary, in order to bring the tank forward with the bulk of the squad, the Engrs will lay charges and blast out the hedgerow immediately in front of the tanks assault position. In this manner it is expected that this team of infantry, engineers and tanks, working in squad groups, will leap-frog forward from hedgerow to hedgerow. It is hoped that all rifle platoons of the regiment will accomplish this training prior to the next attack.

Report from the 29th Div indicates a general enemy withdrawal from their front. This report has been in no way confirmed.

In compliance with FUSA directive, unit camouflage officers have been appointed. It has become necessary to stress camouflage discipline, particularly in the rear areas.

Our patrols continue to report some enemy activity to the front such as digging, patrolling and some motor movement. As a result of our patrolling we have been able to bring much of this activity under mortar and artillery fire. It is impossible to say exactly what enemy casualties have been inflicted but reports indicate that targets outlined for fire have been hit.

No prisoners were taken during the day. One (1) EM was killed and seventeen (17) were wounded. No officer casualties were received.

28 June 1944

Our activity today again amounted to improving our installations and positions, with continued night patrolling. Our O.P.'s are being operated on a twenty-four hour basis. The enemy continues harassing artillery and mortar fire on our front.lines, with little effect. Our artillery continues to fire T.O.T. throughout the day and night, with our mortars firing on targets of opportunity whenever possible for them to do so.

At 2320 hours mechanized movement was reported at 584548. Our Cn Co. immediately fired a concentration on that area.

Our patrols were unable to report any change in enemy activity from their observations. Only one patrol was fired on. This patrol, Sgt Duffy and three (3) EM of Co. L, reported what they believed to be digging of emplacements by enemy using motor driven tools.

During the day no prisoners were taken and only three (3) EM of the regiment were wounded. This has been the lightest battle day since real action began for the regiment on 12 June 1944.

29 June 1944

Enemy activity has not differed materially from the past several days. The enemy continues to maintain a tight defense against our patrols. G-2 reports two (2) enemy patrols to our front, withdrawing upon discovery. This is the first offensive enemy patrolling reported for several days. Very little enemy artillery fire was received during the day. Enemy mortar fire and 88mm fire continues to fall sporadically among our front line troops causing very few casualties.

The Commanding General arrived at the C.P. at 1130 B hours to present awards to the following officers and enlisted men: a. Sgt. William J. Phillips, 18007847 Bronze Star b. Pfc John E. Williams, 18005074 Bronze Star c. 2d Lt. Howard Voews, 01302256 Bronze Star d. Pfc Harvey C. Parks, Silver Star e. Tec 5 Winfield S. Bear, 33230081 Bronze Star f. Tec 4 Charles F. Zahn, 18010209 Bronze Star g. Capt. Henry M. Dube, 0417005 Bronze Star h. Tec 5 Thomas S. Gorman Bronze Star i. Pfc Leon McDuffie, 6859536 Silver Star j. Pfc Leo Tushey, 33010968 Bronze Star k. Pfc Marshall L. McAdams, 6955233 Bronze Star l. T/sgt John E. Garcia, 18009848 Bronze Star

30 June 1944

An A-20 bomber was shot down over the British-Caen area at 2014 B hours tonight. It was clearly seen falling at an WNW Air at 240 from the C.P. One man was seen to parachute from the falling plane.

One patrol, composed of Lt. D. W. Smith,Jr. and two (2) EM of Co. F, reached enemy territory at coordinate 597666 where one (1) man tripped a booby trap. All members of the patrol were injured but managed to return to our lines.

Another patrol, composed of Lt. Doyle and six (6) EM of Co. L, encountered a German patrol. A fire fight resulted. Our patrol reports killing one (1) of the enemy.

No prisoners were taken during the day. One (1) officer and three (3) enlisted men were wounded. Casualties for this day are the least since action began.

Enemy activity has not increased during the day. However, occasional mortar, artillery, MG and small arms fire continues to fall in our area. The enemy continues to maintain a tight defense against our night patrols. During the night some motor activity was heard by our patrols, together with some construction going on using motorized equipment. The main road east of our position, running from St. Lo, is under our artillery fire.

At 1112 B hours the regimental communication officer reported that wire between regimental C.P. and 3d Bn had been tampered with the night before. The wire had been peeled and twisted together. It is suspected that the Germans wished to ambush a wire party sent out to repair the damage. No wire party was sent out until daylight, the operators using an alternate circuit for several hours.

At approximately 2030 B hours tonight a dogfight between our P-51's and enemy ME-109's took place within view from the C.P. One ME-109 was seen to fall well to our rear. Another was seen to hurry for home, burning. As it passed over the area it dripped its auxiliary gas tank, which landed on one of our A.T. Company's 57mm guns, immediately to our rear. No damage was done to the gun.

Our patrols report no changes in enemy activity during the night.

No prisoners were taken during the day. Three (3) EM were KIA; one (1) officer and fourteen (14) EM were wounded.

23rd Infantry June 1944