October 1944

Western Europe

In the II Corps area, the methodical reduction of the Breskens Pocket continues. The Canadian 2nd Division begins to drive along the Beveland Isthmus, leaving containing forces at its neck.

The front here remains generally static.

In the XV Corps area, the 44th Division, committing the 324th Infantry, completes the relief of the 79th Division.

In the VI Corps area, the 3rd Division commits its full strength to drive on St Dié as the 30th Infantry, having moved northward, joins in the attack to the right of the 7th. The 179th Infantry, 45th Division, takes the town of Mortagne, on the enemy side of the Mortagne River.

Gen de Lattre issues secret instructions to the I Corps for an offensive toward Belfort, INDEPENDENCE. The I Corps is to be strongly reinforced for the operation. Extensive deceptive measures are taken to conceal the place of the projected attack and take the enemy by surprise.