OPERATIONS

)FFENSIVE Meuse-Argonne Offensive and Sept. Aug. 28- Total Subsequent Service Sept. 2 3-6 - MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SEPTE~IBER 26- 415 4 427 NOVEMBER I I 24 24 73 ------2 76 295 4 312 SUBSEQUENT SERVICE, NOVEMBER 12, I9I8-~IAY 1919 32 31 ------86 1 90 443 5 454 25 25 ------9 93 ROMTHE TIME that the American Commander-in-Chief - 84 683 8 699 arrived in France, he bent every effort toward organizing 53 53 - 110 ------1 111 an American army under American command at the - 21 8 29 F - 5 earliest possible moment. To accomplish this would normally 5 ------2 2 consume considerable time because it would first be necessary ------15 6 28 to transport a large number of troops to Europe, provide for 2 2 ------4 4 their supply and complete their training. The organization of ------25 3 28 1 1 this army was further deferred by the critical situation created ------by the German offensives launched in the spring and early 1 ------1 61 61 ------summer of 1918. These offensives so depleted the Allied 1 1 ------3 3 reserves that the Allies faced almost certain defeat unless they ------68 5 81 2 received immediate support. In this crisis the American 2 ------12 12 Commander-in-Chief postponed for the time being the concen------51 1 52 - 4 tration of American divisions for the formation of an American 4 ------2 2 ------army, and made all American combatant forces available for 4 6 15 1 1 service with the British and French armies. \Vith this assist------ance, the Allies were able not only to stop the German offensives 19 4 24 3 before they gained a decisive victory but, on July 18, to launch 3 ------6 6 ------the Aisne-Marne Offensive against the Germans in the :\Iarne 2,633 69 2, 763 salient. On July 24, while this offensive was still in progress, a strategic offensive plan was agreed upon by the Commanders-

10 5 15 in-Chief and the Allied Commander-in-Chief which included a ------mission for an American army. The immediate purpose of this 3 3 ------plan was to reduce the salients which interfered with railroad 13 5 18 communications which were essential to further offensive operations. One of these was the St. :NIihiel salient. [3, ::'02] 2,6461 74 2,781 I The American First Army was organized on August 10, and in action; DS=detached service. 33 34 32D DIVISION - SUM~URY OF OPERATIO~S

on August 30 assumed command of the front from Port-sur- Seille, east of the Moselle Rinr, to 'Watronville, 1I kilometers southeast of Verdun. From September 12 to 16 it conducted the St. Mihiel Offensive which resulted in the reduction of the St. Mihiel salient. [202] With the reduction of the St. }'Iihiel and other salients the immediate purpose of the strategic offensive plan of July 24 had been accomplished, and it beca:ne possible to undertake the great converging offensives which had been agreed upon by the Commanders-in-Chief and the Allied Commander-in-Chief early in September. These offen sins included an American attack to be launched on September :6 between the }'Ieuse River and the Argonne Forest, supported on the left by the French Fourth Army between the Argonne and the Suippes River; a renewal of the Somme Offensi,-e on September 27; and a combined Allied attack east of Ypres on September 28. Be- tween these principal offensives, secondary operations were to be undertaken. [202, 203, 20+, +09] The Meuse-Argonne Offensin of t::e American First Army was to be directed against the principal German lateral line of supply, the Carignan-Sedan-~Iezieres railroad which, at Sedan, lay 53 kilometers from the fro:J.t. The senring of this artery would render the German p05itions to the ,vest and northwest of Sedan untenable. [ :::] Protecting this vital supply line, t::e Germans had, during the previous four years, constructed a strong s}-stem of field fortifications. On the Meuse-Argonne front, there were four distinct defensive positions. The first la;-- close behind the front line. The second included ~Icntfaucon and traversed the Argonne south of Apremont. The t1:ird, which was known to the Germans as the Kriemhild Stellung, formed a part of their great defensive system, popularl:,- called the Hindenburg Line, which ran from the vicinity of ~Ietz to the ::\orth Sea. This position extended from Bois de Foret, across the heights of CuneI and Romagne, to include tt:e high ground north of Grandpre. The fourth position incluced the heights of Bar- ! ricourt, and extended westward to Buzancy and Thenorgues. The first three positions had been thoroughly organized, and MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQt:EST SERVICE 35 OPERATIONS numerous intermediate positions constructed between them. he front from Port-sur- These defenses, together with the natural military strength ltronville, 11 kilometers of the terrain, presented a formidable obstacle to an attacking r 12 to 16 it conducted ar~y. The imp.ortance. of the communications protected by in the reduction of the thIs front made It certam that the Germans would resist here to the last extremity. [202] I and other salients the The plan of the First Army contemplated an initial advance fensive plan of July 24 of 16 kilometers and a penetration of the hostile third position. e possible to undertake This penetration would force the enemy to evacuate the ad been agreed upon by Argonne Forest, and insure the junction of the First Armv ed Commander-in-Chief with the French Fourth Army at Grandpre. A further advanc'e included an American of 16 kilometers was then to be made to the line , Stena\"-le. 26 between the Meuse Chesne. Such an advance would outflank the enemy's position rted on the left by the along the Aisne River, in front of the French Fourth Army, gonne and the Suippes and clear the way for an advance on Mezieres or Sedan. These Ie on September 27; and operations were to be supplemented by an attack to clear the on September 28. Be- heights east of the Meuse River as far as Bois de la Grande Jary operations were to Mon tagne. [ 202] In preparation for the Meuse-Argonne Offensive the front e American First Army of the First Army was extended from \Vatronville ;0 the west Jal German lateral line edge of the Argonne Forest on September 22. It attacked ieres railroad which, at ~t 5 :30 a. u:., September 26, with the III, V and I Corps in t. The severing of this lme from nght to left. West of the Argonne Forest, the itions to the west and French Fourth Army attacked in conjunction with the American 2] forces. Elements of the First Army east of the :\Ieuse did e Germans had, during not attack during the opening days of the offen sin. [202] l strong system of field By September 30 the First Army had advanced approximateh' front, there were four 10 kilometers and penetrated the hostile second position. I~ t lay close behind the the center the V Corps, with the 79th, 37th and 91st Divisions ltfaucon and traversed in line, from right to left, had reached the line , Kantillois- third, which was known Bois Emont-Tronsol Ferme. [3, 202] .lung, formed a part of . called the Hindenburg \Ietz to the North Sea. oret, across the heights The following paragraphs, in italic, are a synopsis of the e high ground north of service of the 32d Division in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. led the heights of Bar- This synopsis is designed to make the principal facts concerning zancy and Thenorgues. this service available to the reader in compact form. ,roughly organized, and 32D DIVISION - SUM).URY or OPERATIOSS

When the Meuse-Argonne o.ffensi,:e opmed, the 3'2d Division was in reserve of the F Corps. 0.71.September 30 it relie,:ed the 37th Division on the general line, nGrthern edge of Bois de Beuge- south of Cierges-northern edge of Bois Communal de Ciuges. o.n o.ctober 1 the division adf:anad its cmter to a line north of Cierges. During the night of o.ctober 3-4, the 32d Division shifted about '2% kilometers to the west, taking o,;er the ~ne of action of the 9ISt Division. The Ist Division was to the left of the 3'2d Division. The 32d Division attacked on actober 4 with the mission of capturing Gesnes and the heights u:est of Romagne-sous-Af ont- faucon. By night the division held a line along the Ciergu- Gesnes-Exermont road. o.n actober 5 the attack was renr.ud 'leith the same objecti,:es and dispositions as on actober 4. The line for the night extended east and west through Gesnes. From actober 6 to 8 the division readjusted its lines, impro,:ed its position and made preparations to attack. an actober 9 the division ad,:anCtd about '2 kilometers. an the 10th a gain of about 1 kilometer u:as made on the left. The 18 ISt Infantry Brigade, 9Ist Division, ~::hich had been attached to the 1St Division, to the left, was attached to the 3'2d Division on the latter date. There were no gains on actober I!. During the early morning of o.ctober 12 the division extended to the left and took over the zone formuly r.eId by the I81St Infantry Brigade. an this day the 3d Dieision passed to control of the III Corps, the 3'2d Division th:J.s becoTl:ing the right division of the V Corps. The 4'2d Division re!ie,:ed the 1St Division to the left of the 32d. No attack was made on actober 13. an the 14th the division captured Romagne and gained a line through Bois de Chaueignon. The left flank was refused to the so:.thtastern slopes of Hill 288. The attack was resumed on o.ctober 15 and an advance made to the northern edge of Bois de Cha!<-:1gno>:. The left flank u'as advanced in Bois de Romagne to the so!

,pened, the 3~d Division until tht 89th Division relitvtd tht division at 8 a. m., Octobu ~O. Jtember 30 it relieved the On N ovtmbtr 9, tht 3~d Division crosstd to tht tast bank of tht I edge of Bois de Beuge- M tuSt and entutd the front lint as tht right di~sion of tht I I I :;ommunal de Cierges. Corps by taking command of its I~8th Infantry, which, whilt center to a line north of Strving with the 5th Division, had reachtd Ptur:illus, about 10 kilometus tast of the MeuSt. 2d Division shifted about Tht division attacked on Novtmbtr 10 in tu'o columns. Tht kilometers, but being ahtad of tht units on zone of action of the 9ISt right column advanced 3 tjt of the 32d Division. its flanks, was forced to return to tht lint of dtparturt. Tht ltjt kilometers to about ~oo mtttrs u:ut of Thin!! r 4 with tht mission of column advanced 3 of Romagne-sous-M ont- RuisStau, where it was abreast of the right column. On N ovtm- line along the Ciergu- ber II tht attack was abandontd btcauSt of tht Armistie!.

'th the same objectives and Upon being relieved in the Oise-Aisne Offensive, the 32d Sept. or the night extended east Division moved to the Meuse-Argonne region and, on the night of September 25-26, took position in Foret de Hesse, 2.6-2.9 justed its lines, improved about 10 kilometers south of 1Iontfaucon, as reserve of the 1ck. V Corps, First Army. The 57th Field Artillery Brigade was Jut 2 kilometers. On the detached and served with the 79th and 3d Divisons until ie on the left. The 18 1St October 6. The l07th Engineers was detached and served had been attached to the with the V Corps until October 3. [ I ] the 32d Division on the The division remained in Foret de Hesse until the morning 'er II. of September 30, when it mond forward to relieve the 37th 'Sept.30 12 the division extended Division west of Nantillois. [205, 206, 2°7] Ield by the 181St Infantry The front line taken over by the 32d Division extended from passed to control of the the northern edge of Bois de Beuge, across the summit of Hill ing the right division of 254, thence to the southwest across the valley of L'Andon ~he ISt Division to the left Ruisseau, through Bois Emont, thence northwest to La Grange aux Bois Ferme. The 63d Infantry Brigade took over this line, On the 14th the division with the 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry, and the 2d Battalion, ugh Bois de Chauvignon. 126th Infantry, from right to left. [208,209,210,211,212] ern slopes of Hill 288. and an advance made to The relief continued throughout the day and was completed e>n. The left flank was early on the morning of October 1. Command passed to the ast of La Tuilerie Ferme. 32d Division at II p. m., on the 30th. At the same time that ber 16. On the 17th the the 32d Division entered the line, the 3d Diyision relieved the on and the southern and 79th Division to the right. Contact was maintained by the IJere taken. On the 18th 32d Division with the two flank divisions. The 55th Field Artil- ,ilk This line was held lery Brigade, 30th Division, which had been supporting the 37th 32D DIVISION - SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS

Division, remained in support of the 32d Division until October 8. The 158th Field Artillery Brigade, 83d Division, had been with the 32d Division from September 26 to 30. [ I, 213, 214] On October I the division advanced its line through Cierges, Oct. effecting a maximum gain of about I kilometer in the center. Contact was maintained with the 3d and 91st Divisions at the 1-2 same points as on the previous night. [3°,215,216,217] Patrolling on the front of the division was carried out during October 2, but no change in location of the front lines was made. No enemy infantry was encountered by the patrols, although hostile machine guns and artillery were active. Dur- ing the night the 126th Infantry replaced its 2d Battalion in the front line with its 1st Battalion. [215, 218] Corps field orders were issued on October 3 directing the 32d Oct. 3 Division to shift to the left, with a new right boundary just west of Cierges and a new left boundary corresponding to the corps boundary, which extended generally from Tronsol Ferme . Division (incl.) to Hill 200 (excl.), thence northwest. The 3'2d was to relieve the 91st Division to the left, and be relieved o'n the right to and including Cierges by the 3d Division. By these changes the front of the V Corps would be held by the 3d and 32d Divisions, from right to left, with the 1st Division, [ '219] I Corps, to the left of the 32d Di ision. Later in the day the corps ordered an attack to be made at 5:25 a. m., October 4. This attack by the V Corps was part of the general attack by the First Army, in which the III and V Corps were to carry the heights of Cunel and Romagne-sous- Montfaucon. The V Corps prescribed an attack on both sides of Romagne. The 32d Division was to capture Gesnes and the heights west of Romagne, and was to assist the 1st Division by capturing Bois de Money; the 1st Division was in turn to assist the 32d Division in capturing the heights west of Ro- magne. A rollingbarrage was provided as far as Bois de ~Ioncy. The two divisions of the corps were to advance independently as far as the combined army first-phase line, a line "generally .' east and west through the center of Bois de Bantheville and ~. . .

MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SEIlVlCE 39 lY OF OPERATIONS north of Bantheville; from this line divisions were to be prepared of the 32d Division until to continue the advance upon receipt of orders. [202, 220] illery Brigade, 83d Division, The 57th Field Artillery Brigade was in support of the 3d om September 26 to 30. [I, Division during the first days of the offensive and was not returned to the 32d Division until the night of October 6. The need its line through Cierges, 32d Division was to utilize the 58th Field Artillery Brigade, 33d ut I kilometer in the center. Division, but this brigade was not to advance. [I, 221, 222] 3d and 91st Divisions at the The 32d Division ordered the attack with brigades abreast. ght. [3°,215,216,217] A company of tanks was assigned to assist in reducing Bois de .vision was carried out during la Morine and the strongpoint on Hill 240. The line of de- :ation of the front lines was parture was prescribed as, northern edge of the small wood 500 encountered by the patrols, meters northwest of Cierges-northern edge of the small wood :l artillery were active. Dur- 200 meters north of Bois Communal de Cierges-northern edge ~placed its 2d Battalion in the of Bois Communal de Baulny. [ 223 ] [215,218] The formation for the attack was as follows: n October 3 directing the 32d 63D INUNTRY BRIGADE h a new right boundary just 64TH INFANTRY BRIGADE Jundary corresponding to the 127th Infantry 126th Infantry ~enerally from Tronsol Ferme 2d Battalion 1st Battalion 1st Battalion 3d Battalion 10rthwest. The 32d Division 3d Battalion 2d Battalion :0 the left, and be relieved on 128th Infantry I25th Infantry ~es by the 3d Division. By [223,224,225,226,227] Corps would be held by the .. During the night of October 3-4, the adjustment of the 32d to left, with the 1st Division, Division's new line was effected. The 125th Infantry was re- ivision. [ 219] lieved on the right by the 7th Infantry, 3d Division. The I26th ered an attack to be made at Infantry placed its 3d Battalion in line to the west of Cierges ack by the V Corps was part and to the right of the 1st Battalion of that regiment. On the t Army, in which the III and ; of Cunel and Romagne-sous- left of the division the line was extended by the I27th Infantry, which moved into the zone of the 91st Division. The regiment :ribed an attack on both sides bivouacked in rear of its new lines during the early part of the Nas to capture Gesnes and the night of October 3-4, and at 4:30 a. m., October 4, completed \'as to assist the 1st Division the relief of the right elements of the 91st Division. The 32d e 1st Division was in turn to Division took command of its new front at midnight, October ring the heights west of Ro- 3. [228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234] >vided as far as Bois de Money. .. Supported by an artillery barrage, the 32d Division launched "ere to advance independently its attack about 5:25 a. m., October 4. [235, 236] ;t-phase line, a line 'generally On the right, the progress of the 126th Infantry was slow. :r of Bois de Bantheville and By 9 a. m., the troops had reached the line, Hill 241- point 218. The tanks which supported the attack were able 251978-44 4 32D DIVISION - SUMHAJt.YOF OPERATIONS

to make more rapid progress and pushed ahead of the infantry. By 8 a. m. they had reached points on Hill 239 and along the creek about 500 meters northeast of Gesnes, but here they were stopped by heavy artillery fire. Hostile ax:tillery and machine- gun fire was very severe, the machine-gun fire coming particu- larly from the small patches of woods west of Hill 235. By 10:45 a. m. Company D, 126th Infantry, and two machine-gun sections, were on the Cierges-Gesnes road. By 1=45p. m. all companies of the 1st Battalion were on the road, but the front line of the 3d Battalion was at that time still on Hill 241, 800 meters northwest of Cierges. [237,238,239,240,241, 242, 243, 244, 245] At 5 p. m. the 2d Battalion, IWth Infantry, passed through the 3d Battalion, and took up a position to the right of the 1st Battalion, with its right resting at a point about 200 meters north of crossroads 242 and about 100 meters east of the La Grange aux Bois Ferme-Romagne road, thence along the Cierges-Gesnes road to the vicinity of point 214 where it was in touch with the right of the 1st Battalion. The regiment,!l line then continued along the road to the southeastern part of Gesnes, where contact was maintained with the right of the I27th Infantry. Contact was established with the 3d Division to the right. [242, 243, 246, 247, 248, 249] When the ,I27th Infantry attacked, about 5:25 a. m., its front lacked about I kilometer of reaching to the west bound- ary of the 32d Division. Troops of the 91st Division con- tinued to hold their former front line in the western part of the 91st Division's former sector until the afternoon, when a readjustment of the front of the I27th Infantry was made, and that part of the line was taken over from the 91st Division. [234,250,251] The 1st Battalion, 127th Infantry, had crossed Ruisseau de Gesnes, just southwest of the town of Gesnes, by 9 a. m. Tanks which accompanied the attack moved up the slope to- ward Bois de la Morine, but were stopped by heavy fire. The attack of the 1st Battalion was likewise checked on the slopes north of Ruisseau de Gesnes, and in the ravine 400 meters northwest of Gesnes. [252] F OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE ed ahead of the infantry. The 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, to the left of the 1st Bat- n Hill 239 and along the talion, met heavy machine-gun fire from Bois, de la Morine as ~snes, but here they were it attempted to cross the top of the ridge just north of Ruis- lIe ar,tillery and machine- seau de Gesnes, and by 7:30 a. m. was driven back to its line -gun fire coming particu- of departure. About noon the 2d Battalion extended its left s west of Hill 235.' By flank westward, relieving troops of the 91st Division just south ry, and two machine-gun and southeast of Tronsol Ferme, and by I p. m. was in contact road. By 1:45 p. m. all with troops of the 26th Infantry, 1st Division, at a point prac- :l the road, but the front tically on the divisional boundary, about 300 meters northwest me still on Hill 241, 800 of Tronsol Ferme. The 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, made a 3, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, number of unsuccessful attempts to advance against Bois de la Morine during the remainder of the day. A few troops suc- Infantry, passed through ceeded in crossing Ruisseau de Gesnes south of Bois de la :Mo- )n to the right of the 1st rine, but were stopped at the bottom of the slope immediately point about 200 meters north of the brook. [250, 253, 254] meters east of the La In the course of the attack by the 127th Infantry, and in the ° road, thence along the process of relieving elements of the 91st Division, the 1st and f point 214 where it was 2d Battalions of the regiment became considerably separated. ttalion. The regiment:!;l To close the gap, the 3d Battalion, from reserve, advanced the southeastern part of almost due north and took positions in the vicinity of point d with the right of the 178; elements of this battalion penetrated across Ruisseau de 1ed with the 3d Division ;. Gesnes'during the day, but were forced to withdraw. [30, 255, 249] 256 ] I, about 5:25 a. m., its The ground gained by the 127th Infantry north of Ruisseau hing to the west bound- de Gesnes was not held. By nightfall, the regiment had dug the 91st Division con- in on a line from the southern part of Gesnes, southwest to a in the western part of point about 300 meters northwest of Tronsol Ferme. The left I the afternoon, when a of the 2d Battalion remained in touch with the right of the 26th Infantry was made, and Infantry at this point during the night of October 4-5. [ '257, from the 91St Division. 258 ] The field orders of the V Corps, issued on October 4, an- lad crossed Ruisseau de nounced that the attack would be resumed at 6:30 a. m., Octo- of Gesnes, by 9 a. m. ber 5, with zones and objectives the same as for the attack of moved up the slope to- the 4th. Flank divisions were ordered to assist the 32d Divi- ped by heavy fire. The sion in its attack. The 32d Division issued no formal field ;e checked on the slopes orders for this attack, but indorsed copies of the corps order the ravine 400 meters . " to its brigades. [ 258, 259] In the 63d Infantry Brigade, orders were issued to resume 32D DIVISION - SUillfARY OF OPERATIONS

the attack at 6 :30 a. m., with Hill :='5; as the first objective. A standing barrage was to begin at 6:3c a. m., and the infantry was to adv~nce at 7 a. m., at whic2 time the barrage would move forward. The 126th Infantry was to attack \vith the 2d and 1st Battalions in line from right to left and with the 3d Battalion in reserve. [260, 261 ] In the 64th Infantry Brigade, t'::e attack was ordered to begin at 6 a. m., with Bois de la :\brine, Bois du Chene Sec, and the heights west of Romagne as the objective. The 127th Infantry, with the 1st, 3d and 2d B,,:talions in line, from right to left, was ordered to make the att"ck, with the 2d Battalion, 128th Infantry, in close support. The 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, was to attack Bois de la ~Iorine in close cooperation - with the 26th Infantry while the two right battalions were to attack the woods from the southeast. The rolling barrage was to commence at the southern edge of Bois de la Morine at 6 a. m., and remain there until sufficient time had elapsed for the infantry to arrive in the vicinit:.-, when it was to advance. One section of tanks was to suppor: t~e attack on the eastern edge of Bois de la Morine. [ 262] On October 5, the 63d Infantry Brigade on the right, at- Oct. 5 tempted to advance, but made no i:n?ortant gains during the morning. The enemy held strong pC5itions in the small patches of woods west of Hill 235, which successfully prevented any material advance in that area. [ :=.63] In the zone of action of the 64t::. Infantry Brigade, on the left, the 127th Infantry advanced "ccording to plans, and by 10 a. m. had captured Bois de la ~Iorine and Bois du Chene Sec. During this advance the ~d Battalion, 128th Infantry, and elements of the 3d and 1st Battalions, I1Sth Infantry, ad- vanced with and sometimes througi the 117th Infantry and, during the afternoon, became mir:gled with elements of the 127th Infantry along the northeas: and northwest edges of Bois du Chene Sec. [264, 265] To assist the 63d Infantry Briga:e, artillery concentrations were placed on enemy strongpoints {rom I I :30 a. m. to 2 p. m. Aided by this fire and by a rolling barrage, the 126th Infantry succeeded in taking Hill 239 about:=. p. m. [266,267] OF OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGO:-iNE OFFE:-iSIVE, ~UBSEQ1:EXT SERVICE 43

255 as the first objective. Repeated attempts to advance were made on the whole di- i:30 a. m., and the infantry visional front during the remainder of the afternoon, and small :h time the barrage would parties were able to reach the southern slopes of Hill 255 ane. y was to attack with the the southeast corner of Bois de l\Ioncy, but were forced to ght to left and with the 3d withdraw. At 3 :40 p. m. the 3d Division, to the right, sent a message to the 32d Division, stating that it "ould attack at he attack was ordered to 5 p. m., in conjunction with the 80th Division to its right, ane [orine, Bois du Chene Sec, requesting the 32d Division either to attack, or to protect the the objective. The 127th 3d Division's left. In accordance with this request, the 126th lttalions in line, from right Infantry, and the right of the 127th Infantry attacked again lck, with the 2d Battalion, at 5 p. m., continuing the attack until about 6:30 p. m. Only The 2d Battalion, 127th slight gains were made. [266, 268, 269, 270] Iorine in close cooperation' The front line of the 32d Division for the night extended '0 right battalions were to across Hill 239, from the La Grange aux Bois Ferme--Romagne . The rolling barrage was road , where contact was established with the left of the 3d. of Bois de la Morine at 6 Division, to Gesnes; thence west through Gesnes and over tne ient time had elapsed for ridge west of the town; thence along the north edge of Bois ., when it was to advance. du Chene Sec, thence to Ruisseau du Gouffre. Liaison "a5 the attack on the eastern maintained with the 1st Division. [30, 27 I] Orders were issued late on October 5 for the relief of the I 26tb. Brigade on the right, at- Infantry by the 125th Infantry, and of the I2';'th Infantry b:.- nportant gains during the the 128th Infantry. [272] ;itions in the small patches Field orders of the V Corps issued in the early morning uccessfully prevented any of October 6 prescribed that the corps would organize for Oct. 6 ] further attack, and would establish an outpost line which, Infantry Brigade, on the in the zone of the 32d Division, was to include Bois de la :cording to plans, and by Morine and Gesnes. A line of resistance was ordered estab- [orine and Bois du Chene lished along the line, Bois de Beuge-Bois Emont-Bois Corr.- ~attalion, 128th Infantry, munal de Cierges. The 32d Division issued no formal £eld llions, 128th Infantry, ad- order, but sent instructions to its brigades covering the ap?li- the 127th Infantry and, cable provisions of the corps order. [273, 2';'-h 2';'5] led with elements of the The 63d Infantry Brigade, on the right, issued orders to and northwest edges of the 125th Infantry, to attack. The 64th Infantry Brigade, o:l the left, ordered the 128th Infantry to hold its lines lightly, ~, artillery concentrations with troops well echeloned in depth. [276, 277] om 11:30 a. m. to 2 p. m. The relief of the 126th Infantry by the I25th Infantr:; rrage, the 126th Infantry had been completed at 5: 40 a. m., and the relief of the 127th p. m. [ 266, 267 ] Infantry by the 128th, at 4: 30 a. m. No attack was made. The 44 32D DIVISION - SUM~!ARY OF OPE RATIOS'S

128th Infantry placed its 1st, 3d and 2d Battalions in line from right to left. Following the reliefs there was some activity by patrols along the front of the division. [30, 277, 278, 279, 28o] In accordance with telephonic instructions from the 32d Division, a detachment consisting of Company L, 128th Infantry, and one machine-gun platoon, was sent out during the morning for the purpose of establishing contact with the right of the 1st Division near Ferme d'Arietal, and for the purpose of relieving a patrol of the 26th Ir.fantry reported to be on Cote 269. This detachment proceeded as far as the southwest corner of Bois de 1Ioncy, where it remained through- out the rest of the day of October 6 and during the night of October 6-7. [ 28 I ] At 2 p. m. Company F, 12Sth Infantry, moyed from the northern edge of Bois du Ch~ne See to"ard Cote :69, but with- drew to its starting point after being subjected to hav)" shell- fire. During the day, patrols of the 1st Battalion, 12Sth Infantry, occupied the U-shaped woods about 5x meters northwest of Gesnes. Other patrols of the 1st Battalion, and some troops of the 125th Infantry, n;oyed into the northeastern part of Gesnes. [30, 28 I, 282, 283] Direct contact with the front line of the 3d Division was maintained during the night of October 6-7. Liaison between the 128th Infantry and the 1st Di\'ision was maintained during the day of October 6, and the night of October 6-7 by patrols between Company L, 128th Infantry, "hich "as intrenched along the extreme southern edge of Bois de ~Ioncy, and a post of the 26th Infantry near Fontaine St. Germain. [275, 28.tJ In accordance with telephonic instructions from the Chief Oct. 7 of Staff, 32d Division, at 12: 30 a. m., October 7, Companies E and H, an.d a platoon of the ~Iachine-Gun Company, 127th Infantry, were sent to relieve t"o companies of the 26th Infantry on Cote 269. These companies relieyed the detach- ment of the 26th Infantry on the t"o knolls on the south- western slopes of Cote 269 about 8:35 a. m. The platoon of the Machine-Gun Company, 127th Infantry, which accompa- nied Companies E and H, took up a position along the northern F OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQt:EST SERVICE 45 ld 2d Battalions in line edge of the strip of woods north of Ruisseau du Gouffre. Com- reliefs there was some panies E and H, I27th Infantry, maintained contact during the f the division. [30, 277, day and on the night of October 7-8, with the right of the 26th Infantry in the western edge of Bois de ~Ioncy and with the ,tructions from the 32d I28th Infantry in Bois du Ch~ne See by patrols. [281, 285] of Company L, I28th The enemy held the crest of Cote 269 and controlled that on, was sent out during portion of Bois de Money to the south and east. [286] ,lishing contact with the During the afternoon the 2d Battalion, I25th Infantry, suc- e d'Arietal, and for the ceeded in capturing the three patches of woods between Hill 5th Infantry reported to 239 and Fontaine Sainte Pie, and established its lines around proceeded as far as the them. The left flank of the 3d Division remained unchanged. lere it remained through- [287, z88] 6 and during the night The V Corps on this date assigned new boundaries to the 32d Division, to be effective at midnight, October 7, which fantry, moved from the were, generally, as follows: Nard Cote 269, but with- Right: west edge of Bois de Beuge-south edge of Ban- subjected to heavy shell- theville. Ie 1st Battalion, I28th Left: Cote 269-la Tuilerie Ferme. ')ods about 500 meters If the 1st Battalion, and The 67th Field Artillery Brigade, 42d Division, and the 36Ist ,oed into the northeastern Infantry, and 347th Machine-Gun Battalion, both of the I8Ist Infantry Brigade, 9Ist Division, were attached to the of the 3d Division was 32d Division. The two latter organizations were directed or 6-7. Liaison between by the 32d Division to relieve the 64th Infantry Brigade during n was maintained during the night of October 7-8, on the front, Hill 255 (incl.)-Cote f October 6-7 by patrols 269 (incl.). The division also directed the 63d Infantry Bri- ., which was intrenched gade to relieve the units of the 3d Division west of the new is de Money, and a post boundary on the night of October 7-8, with one regiment. Germain. [275, 284] The 55th Field Artillery Brigade, .30th Division, was to be 'uctions from the Chief relieved from the 32d Division. [289, 290] October 7, Companies The 57th Field Artillery Brigade, together with the I+7th 1e-Gun" Company, I27th Field Artillery, which was attached to it, renrted to the 32d companies of the 26th Division on this date from service with the 3d Division [I] lies relieved the detach- The relief of the 64th Infantry Brigade in the front line ;0 knolls on the south- between Gesnes, exclusive, and the western edge of Bois du Oct. 8 ; a. m. The platoon of Chene See, inclusive, by the 36Ist Infantry and the 3+7th fan try, which accompa- Machine-Gun Battalion, was begun at 9 p. m., October 7, sition along the northern and was completed by 5 a. m., October 8. 'Cpon telephonic instructions from the V Corps, these units of the 9Ist Division 32D DIVISION - SUMMARY or OPERATIOXS were attached to the 1st Division, command passlllg to the latter at 6 p. m. [291, 292, 293] Companies E and H, and the machine-gun platoon, I27th Infantry, in Bois de Money, were relieved early on the morn- ing of October 8 by the 1st Battalion, 1st Engineers, 1st Divi- sion, the relief being completed at 5:30 a. m. [294] The I26th Infantry had made a reconnaissance during the night of October 7-8 for the purpose of taking over the line of the 7th Infantry, 3d Division, in the new eastern extension of the front of the 32d Division, but it was found that the 38th Infantry had already relieved the 7th Infantry. The relief of the 38th Infantry by the I26th Infantry was not made until the night of October 8-9. [295, 296] At the end of the day, units of the 63d Infantry Brigade, the only elements of the 32d Division then in the front line, held Gesnes and a line extending east therefrom for about 1,25° meters. The 64th Infantry Brigade was in division reserve. [297 ] ,- Corps, an attack was In accordance with the plan of the to be made at 8:30 a. m., October 9, in which the 32d Division was to advance toward Bois de Bantheville, with the mission of capturing Bois de Valoup, Tranchee de Dantrise, and that portion of Tranchee de la Mamelle within its zone of action. The division was also to seize the heights north and west of Romagne by envelopment from the east and southeast. Artil- lery preparation fire was to be provided. Gas was to be used freely. A barrage by the division artillery was to advance by bounds to the northern outskirts of Romagne, where it was to stop. [289, 298, 299] The formation for the attack of the 32d Division was to be as follows: 63D INFANTRY BRIG"lDE I'l.5th Infantry I26th Infantry 3d Battalion 2d Battalion 3d Battalion 2d Battalion 1st Battalion 1st Battalion To the right of the I'l.6th Infantry was the 3d Division, and to the left, the I8Ist Infantry Brigade, 9ISt Division, attached to the 1st Division. r 299. 300 1 MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, St;BSEQUENT SERVICE 47 f OPERATIONS The division plan provided that, after crossing the main ommand passmg to the line of trenches south of Romagne, the I26th Infantry would continue northward, while the I25th Infantry swung to the hine-gun platoon, I27th northwest and flanked the enemy positions on the high ground eved early on the morn- in Bois de Gesnes. [ 299 ] 1st Engineers, 1st Divi- The 64th Infantry Brigade, in division reserve, ordered a 30 a. m. [294] battalion of the I2Sth Infantry to follow the I26th Infantry, connaissance during the prepared to enter the line between the I25th Infantry and the ,f taking over the line of I26th Infantry, when the latter should have cleared Tranchee ~ new eastern extension de Dantrise. This battalion was to attack Bois de Gesnes in was found that the 3Sth conjunction with the I25th Infantry and maintain contact :h Infantry. The relief with the I26th Infantry. The 1st Battalion, I2Sth Infaritry, ntry was not made until was designated for this mission. One battalion of the I27th I Infantry was to follow the I25th Infantry and be prepared e 63d Infantry Brigade, to enter the line between the I25th Infantry and the 36Ist 1 then in the front line, Infantry, ISIst Infantry Brigade, in case the attack against herefrom for about 1,250 Hill 255 by the 36Ist Infantry should prove to be unsuccessful. was in division reserve. This battalion was ordered to push the attack to a successful conclusion in the direction, Hill 255-Bois de Gesnes, and V Corps, an attack was maintain liaison with units to both flanks. The 1st Battalion, I which the 32d Division I27th Infantry, was designated for this mission. [3°1, 301, leville, with the mission ] 3°3 e de Dantrise, and that The 63d Infantry Brigade completed its arrangements for ithin its zone of action. the attack during the night of October S-9. Between micnight ights north and west of and daylight the I26th Infantry completed the relief of units st and southeast. Artil- of the 3d Division, in that portion of the line from about 400 ~d. Gas was to be used meters east of the Romagne--Cierges road to the vicinity of illery was to advance by Hill 239, where it was in touch with the I25th Infantry. A ~omagne, where it was further extension across Ruisseau de Coup to the new divi- sional right boundary was made prior to the hour of attack. e 32d Division was to [30, 297,300,3°4, 3°5] The attack began at S:30 a. m., October 9. The 2d Battalion, 'JADE I26th Infantry, on the right, broke through Tranchee de la Oct. 9 I26th Infantry Mamelle during the morning and penetrated as far as Romagne attalion 2d Battalion by I p. m. The 3d Battalion, I26th Infantry, astride the La 1st Battalion Grange aux Bois Ferme-Romagne road, advanced to the left of the 2d Battalion, but was held up at Tranchee de Dantrise. as the 3d Division, and During the late afternoon, the enemy launched a counterattack , 9Ist Division, attached 32D DIVISION - SUMMARY or OPEILATIOS'S which drove the 2d Battalion back from positions east of Ro- magne and in the town, to Tranchee de la 1.1amelle. [30, 306, 3°7] On the left, the greater part of the 2d and 3d Battalions, I25th Infantry, advanced into Bois de Valoup, where Hill 25S was taken and held. Elements of the regiment reached the southern slopes of La C8te Dame 11arie. The advance on the left of the I25th Infantry tended to follow the slopes leading up to La C8te Dame Marie, and contact was lost with the units of the ISIst Infantry Brigade (attached to the 1st Divi- sion) which did not succeed in passing Hill 255. About 3 p. m. the 1st Battalion, I27th Infantry, moved into the gap and established liaison. [30S, 309, 310, 311] In the evening, the 1st Battalion, I26th Infantry, went into line between the 2d and 3d Battalions, I26th Infantry. The 1st Battalion, I2Sth Infantry, went into line between the 125th and I26th Infantry Regiments in the eastern edge of Bois de Valoup. [3°,312] By nightfall the 3d Division, to the right, had arrind abreast of the 32d Division. Contact was maintained in Tranchee de la Mamelle near the di\'isional boundary. From that point the front line extended along Tranchee de la 11amelle across the two roads leading south from Romagne, thence southwest along the slope facing Tranchee de Dantrise for about 500 meters, to the lines held by the 1st Battalion, I2Sth Infantry, in the eastern edge of Bois de Yaloup. The line of the I25th Infantry then continued to the west through the northern portion of Bois de Yaloup, thence southwest to the northwestern slope of Hill 243; here it joined the line of the 1st Battalion, I27th Infantry, which was facing northwest and was in contact with the line of the ISIst Infantry Brigade, about 200 meters south of the summit of Hill 255. [313, 314, 315,316 ] The V Corps directed a continuation of the attack at 7 a. m., October 10. The 32d Division was ordered to advance to the line, eastern edge of Bois de Chauvignon (Hill 254)-la Tuilerie Ferme (incl.). It was ordered to mop up Bois de Gesnes in conjunction with the ISlst Infantry Brigade, to its MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE F OPERATIONS 49 om positions east of Ro- left, and the 1st Division, to the left of the latter. The 3d le la Mamelle. [30, 306, Division, to the right, was ordered to advance in conformity with the movement of the 32d Diyision. [317 ] e 2d and 3d Battalions, The 32d Division ordered the attack to take place in two ~ Valoup, where Hill 258 phases. In the first, troops were to maneuver into positions Ie regiment reached the along a line of departure from Hill 286 to Romagne. These ie. The advance on the positions were to be taken up under a thorough covering fire follow the slopes leading which was to commence at 7 a. m. and continue until 2 p. m., ntact was lost with the at which time the second phase would commence. In this .ttached to the 1st Divi- second phase the attacking troops were to advance to the corps ing Hill 255. About 3 objective. The 63d Infantry Brigade was to attack with regi- ry, moved into the gap ments abreast. The 64th Infantry Brigade was to be in reserve. A rolling barrage was to precede the infantry. [318,449,45°] 10, 3 I I ] 26th Infantry, went into During the night of October 9-10 the 64th Infantry Brigade s, 126th Infantry. The succeeded in withdrawing the 1st Battalion, I27th Infantry, o line between the 12 5th from the line, but the 1st Battalion, I28th Infantry, remained in eastern edge of Bois de place. The I27th Infantry and the 2d and 3d Battalions, I2Sth Infantry, moved up to the line of departure of October 9. [319] the right, had arrived The first phase of the attack, the maneuver to the new line lct was maintained in of departure, which was in the hands of the enemy, resulted in Oct. 10 >ional boundary. From confusion. The I25th Infantry, on the left, attacked at 7 Tranchee de la Mamelle a. m., although the artillery preparation was very light. On from Romagne, thence the right the I26th Infantry recognized the barrage at 7 a. m., anchee de Dantrise for but having received orders not to attack until 2 p. m., held its by the 1st Battalion, positions during the morning. [30, 320, 321, 322] f Bois de Valoup. The The attack of the 125th Infantry resulted in an advance led to the west through toward Ferme du Transvaal. Progress continued during the lp, thence southwest to day, and at 3:45 p. m., elements of the regiment penetrated the ere it joined the line of enemy's trenches on La C8te Dame 1Iarie directly north of :h was facing northwest Ferme du Transvaal. An enemy counterattack caused some ISlst Infantry Brigade, withdrawal, but positions were held on the southern slopes of Hill 255. [313,314, of La C8te Dame Marie. The 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry, in position on the eastern side of Bois de Yaloup, joined in the on of the attack at 7 attack in the afternoon, but no material gains were made; the .vas ordered to advance battalion strengthened the defensive . line on the right of the mvignon (Hill 254)-la I25th Infantry. [3°,320] ,d to mop up Bois de At 2 p. m., in accordance with the division order, the three nfantry Brigade, to its battalions of the 126th Infantry attacked, with inadequate 5° 32D DIVISION - St"M~L\RYor O?E;tATIONS artillery support, in an effort to tai.:e Romagne on the right, and capture the whole of Tranchee ce Da:ltrise on the left. 1\0 material gain was made. [323, 449] The line on the right remained in Tranchee de la Mamelle, south of Romagne, in contact with troO?S of the 3d Division. It was generally unchanged on the lefe as far as the western part of Bois de Valoup, whence it exten.:ec north on La Cote Dame Marie. The I25th Infantry was in contact with the ISIst Infantry Brigade. [324] At 9 p. m. the V Corps issued or.:ers directing an attack at 7 a. m., October II, to be pushed wi6 utmost vigor. This order provided that the I SI st Infar:tr:.- Brigade would pass to the command of the 32d Diyision. The zone of action of the 32d Division was redefined as follo"'-s: Right boundary: Romagne (ind.)-Remonville (incl.). Left boundary: Cote 269 (in Bcis de ~roncy)-la Musarde Ferme (incl.)-Bois des Hazcis (ir:~l.). [325] The 32d Division directed a renewal of the attack by the division and the attached IS 1st Infa:lt:-y Brigade, on the morn- ing of October II, with the object o~ reac~i:-,g the line, Banthe- ville-Ia Tuilerie Ferme. The ISIst a::.d 63': Infantry Brigades were to continue the attack, and the 6..:.tl: Idantry Brigade was to remain in diyision reserve. A rdli:lg b2.rrage was provided as far north as an east and west li:1e though Bantheyille. Exploitation was to be made, if FossiCle, as far north as a line, Bantheville-Ia Dhuy Ferme. [3:z6] The formation of the 63d Infan:ry B:-igade for the attack was as follows: I25th Infantry I :z6th Infantry 3d Bn 2d Bn 1st Bn, 3d Bn 1st Bn 2d Bn I 2Sth Inf The formation of the ISIst Infantry B:-igade was, the 362d Infantry, in column of battalions, in the assault echelon, with the 36Ist Infantry in brigade reseI\-e. [32-;-,451] The attack began at 7 a. m., and b:.- E:35 a. m. the right of the line was north of Tranchee de la ~Ian:elle, and the center in Oct. I I , OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE 51

Romagne on the right, the neighborhood of Tranchee de Dantrise. The attack was hntrise on the left. No renewed on the right by the I26th Infantry about I p. m. and an advance of about 300 meters made in conjunction with "ranchee de la Mamelle, troops of the 3d Division. On the left, the attempts of the JOpS of the 3d Division. 125th Infantry to advance were unsuccessful throughout the ft as far as the western day. On the extreme left, the 362d Infantry, which had that ~nded north on La Cote morning relieved the 36Ist Infantry in the front line, made in contact with the I8Ist an unsuccessful attempt to take Hill 288; at ni,ghtfall the junction point of its line with the 32d Division was unchanged. lers directing an attack The troops of the I26th Infantry which had adnnced north ith utmost vigor. This from Tranchee de la Mamelle early in the afternoon returned to . Brigade would pass to the trench, and the same line was held for the night of October he zone of action of the II-12 as on the previous night. The right of the line was in contact with the 3d Division in Tranchee de la l\Iamdle. [ 2c6, -Remonville (incl.). 328, 329, 33°] de Moncy)-la l\Iusarde On the night of October I I the V Corps ordered reorganiza- incl.). tion of units and consolidation of the positions occupied, with [325 ] a view to holding the ground. The 58th and 67th Field 11 of the attack by the Artillery Brigades were ordered returned to their own di\"isions. y Brigade, on the morn- In compliance with the corps orders, the 32d Division ordered aching the line, Banthe- the relief of the I8Ist Infantry Brigade by the I2/th Infantry, d 63d Infantry Brigades and the relief of the I26th Infantry by the I28th Infantry. th Infantry Brigade was Both reliefs were to be completed during the night of October g barrage was provided II-I2, and command of the entire front line was to pass to the le through Bantheville. Commanding General, 64th Infantry Brigade, at 6 a. m., October e, as far north as a line, 12. The I25th Infantry was left in line, without change in dispositions. [ 33 I, 332, 333] igade for the attack \vas During the night of October 11-12 the 42d Division relieved the 1st Division to the left of the I8Ist Infantry Brigace, com- mand passing at 8 a. m., October 12. Troops of the 18 I st I26th Infantry Infantry Brigade had been in contact with the 1st Division near :n 1st Bn 2d Bn the divisional left boundary in the northern edge of Bois de Romagne, and contact was established with the +:d Di\"i~ion Brigade was, the 362d at the same point. [30, 334, 335, 336] e assault echelon, with By October 12 the First Army, west of the ~Ieuse, had [327,451] advanced approximately 13 kilometers and reached the general Oct. 12 8 :35 a. m. the right of line, Meuse River-Bois de la Cote Lemont-Bois de Fays- melle, and the center in Bois de Foret-Bois de Romagne-north tip of the Argonne SU}{).URY or OPERATlO:SS 32D DIVISION -

Forest. It had reduced the hostile Erst and second positions, cleared the Argonne Forest and gaine.:: a foothold in the hostile third position south of CuneI. On October 8 the front of attack had been extended to the east bank of the :\Ieuse River, when the French XVII Corps launched an attack to clear the heights of the Meuse. This attack had gai!:ed the southern edge of Bois de la Grande Montagne. In the center of its line west of the Meuse, the First Army was confronted by strong hostile positions in Bois de Romagne and Bois de Bantheville, which commanded and flanked the tenain to the east and west. It was necessary to reduce these positions before further progress t,,;o fresh divisions, the could be made. It was planned tha~ 5th, as the left division of the III COf?S, and the 42d, as the left division of the V Corps, would drive salients through the hostile third position on both flanks of Bois de Romagne and Bois de Bantheville to the general line Les G:ands Carres-Ia Bergerie Ferme. Advancing between these main attacks, the 32d Divi- sion was to mop up Bois ce Bamheville and connect the salients created by the 5th and 42C Divisions. The French XVII Corps was to continue its attack east of the :Meuse. The I Corps was to hold on its left and adnnce its right in conjunction with the left of the \- COf?s. West of the Argonne Forest the French Fourth Army was to attack in conjunction with the First Army. [3, 2~2, 356] The relief of the 362d Infa:ltry, I SI st Infantry Brigade, by the I27th Infantry was completed dl:ring the early morning of October 12, as was also the relief of the I26th Infantry by the I28th Infantry. The ISIst Idantry Brigade rejoined the 9Ist Division. [J37, 338, 339, 3.P] Front line regiments and battaliom of the 32d Division were now in the following order: I27th Infantry I25th Infantr.; I28th Infantry 2d Bn 3d Bn 2d Bn 3d B:l 1st Bn 3d Bn 1st Bn 1st Bn 2d Bn [341,342]

The 1st and 2d Battalions, nSth Infantry, sent patrols to reconnoiter Trancbee de Dantrise and found it strongly held. Enemy fire prevented a patrol from leaving the front of the 3d MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE 53 OPERATIO)'/S

;t and second positions, Battalion, 128th Infantry. Patrols from -the 127th Infantry a foothold in the hostile reconnoitered Hills 288 and 286 and found the enemy in force ber 8 the front of attack on both hills. [343, 344] the Meuse River, when There was no change in the line of the 32d Division during ~ack to clear the heights the day. [30] p. m., the 3d Division passed to control of the III Corps. d the southern edge of At 3 :enter of its line west of The V Corps now had the 32d and 4zd Divisions in line from ~nted by strong hostile right to left. The order of the V Corps for the renewal of the s de Bantheville, which attack shifted the west boundary of the 32d Division to a line the east and west. It extending generally from Hill 255, exclusive, to La Tuilerie , before .further progress Ferme, exclusive. [345,346] two fresh divisions, the The 84th Infantry Brigade, 42d Division, was ordered to , and the 42d, as the left relieve the 127th Infantry by daylight, October 13. The 12/th ients through the hostile Infantry was then to replace the 125tn Infantry in the line, and e Romagne and Bois de the 125th Infantry was to pass to division reserve. How- nds Carres-Ia Bergerie ever, the 84th Infantry Brigade was unable to make the relief ~ attacks, the 32d Divi- at the time ordered and the 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, took eville and connect the- over the zone previously held by the entire regiment. The 1st Divisions. The French and 3d Battalions began to relieve the I'l5th Infantry during the ::ast of the Meuse. The night of October 12-13, but the changes were not completed :l advance its right in during the night. Contact between the left of the 'ld Battalion, i. \Vest of the Argonne 127th Infantry, and the right of the 42d Division was main- o attack in conjunction tained ,during the night of October 12-13 at the same point as during the preceding night. [347,348,349] st Infantry Brigade, by On the right, the 3d Division relieved troops of the I28th ng the early morning of Infantry in Tranchee de la Mamelle, east of the divisional e 126th Infantry by the boundary. Contact between the right of the 3d Battalion, rigade rejoined the 9Ist I28th Infantry, and the left of the 3d Division continued to be maintained in Tranchee de la Mamelle. [35°,351] ,f the 32d Division were The relief of the 125th Infantry by the 1st and 3d Battalions, I27th Infantry, was completed about 8 :30 a. m., October 13. Oct. 13 The relief of the 2d Battalion, 12/th Infantry, by the 42d 128th Infantry Division was completed about 6:30 p. m. No advance was 1st Bn 3d Bn made during the day by the 32d Division. U52, 353, 354, 355] 2d Bn Corps orders for the renewal of the attack directed that the [341,342] 32d Division would attack at 8 a. m:, October 14, in conjunction lfantry, sent patrols to with the III Corps to the right and the 42d Division to the left. found it strongly held. Four objectives were prescribed at intervals of about 500 meters, ving the front of the 3d 54 3ZD DIVISION - Su>GL~RY OF OPERATIONS to a line, south of Bantheville-Ia Dhuy Ferme. Romagne was to be bombarded during the ad\'ance to the first and second objectives, following which, it was to be attacked from the south and west and mopped up. .-\. rolling barrage was to precede the infantry. The di.-isional zone of action was as follows: Right boundary: center of Bois de Beuge-Bantheville (excl.)-road fork 750 meters west of Le .Grand Carre Ferme. Left boundary: Hill 255 (exc1.)-la Tuilerie Ferme (exc!.). [345, 346, 356, 357] Changes in orders, published by t::e 32d Di.-ision at 10:15 p. m., changed the hour of the attack to 5:30 a. m. Units were to attack in the following formation: 64TH n.,FdSTRY BRIGADE I27th Infantry I26th Infar.tr:; I28th Infantry 1st Battalion 2d Battalior: 1st Bn 3d Bn 3d Battalion 3d Battalion 2d Battalion 2d Battalion 1st Battalion [358, 359] To the right of the 32d Division, the 5th Division, III Corps, was to pass through the left of the 33 Division and attack to the east of Romagne. The 3d Diyis:on was to attack to the right of the 5th Division. [360, 36 I ] On the right and in the center of the zone of action of the Oct. 14 32d Division, the attack commence': as scheduled. The 3d Battalion, I28th Infantry, advanced on Romagne from Tran- chee de la Mamelle. To its left the 1st Battalion advanced and had occupied Tranchee de Dantrise by 6:30 a. m. The:!d Battalion, in support, veered to the left and followed the 1st Battalion through the enemy wire. The 1st Battalion, observ- ing that the I26th Infantry codd not progress north of Bois de Valoup, moved to the left behind tne hostile troops facing the I26th Infantry and caused them to withdraw. By 7:30 a. m. this action was completed, and the:!d Battalion, I28th Infantry, had passed Tranchee de Dantrise and moved to the right to its own zone of advance. At 8 :3:J a. m., when the 5th Division MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE 55 passed through the 3d Division, the 3d Battalion, I28th Infantry, was in the southern part of Romagne, while the 1st Battalion was held up on the southern slopes of Ruisseau de Dantrise. [30, 354, 362, 363, 364] When the opposition on the immediate front of the I26th Infantry was overcome by the action of the 1st Battalion, I28th Infantry, the regiment took up the advance. By 8 a. m. patrols from Company M, followed by elements of the 2d and 3d Battalions, entered the woods on the eastern slope of La COte Dame Marie. [365, 366] On the extreme left, the I27th Infantry, with its I st Battalion leading, attacked at 7 a. m., against the strong positions on La C&te Dame Marie. The leading elements made little progress and were subjected to three local counterattacks; a withdrawal to the line of departure was made about 10 a. m. [30, 367] The attack continued on the right. By 10:15 a. m. the 3d Battalion, I28th Infantry, was passing through Romagne; the 2d Battalion was in the line in the vicinity of the Romagne- Sommerance road; the 1st Battalion was to the left of the 2d Battalion. The 2d and 3d Battalions, I26th Infantry, had pushed into the woods about 500 meters northwest of Fontaine de Haut-Minuit. The 1st Battalion, I27th Infantry, was still held up on the southern slope of La C&te Dame ~1arie. [368] At 10:45 a. m. the Commanding General, 64th Infantry Brigade, observing that the right was held up around Romagne while the center was well advanced, ordered an artillery con- centration on Romagne until noon, when it was planned for the 3d Battalion, I28th Infantry, to pass the town. At I I :35 a. m. this battalicn, then north of Romagne, requested that the barrage be stopped, which was done; the 1st Battalion, I25th Infantry, from division reserve, was then sent in to mop up the town and completed the task by noon. At noon the 2d and 1st Battalions, I28th Infantry, were still held up in the vicinity of Dep&t de Munitions, about I kilometer north- west of Romagne. The 1st Battalion, I26th Infantry, having passed through the merged 2d and 3d Battalions about I I

251978---44-5 SUMMARY OF OPERATIOSS 56 32D DIVISION - a. m., was on the Romagne-Sommerance road, in the vicinity of the roadfork 2 kilometers "est of Romagne. Contact .. between the I26th Infantry and the 1st Battalion, I28th Infantry, was gained at 12:35 p. m., and was maintained. At 10:45 a. m. the 2d Battalion, I27th Infantry, had been sent to flank La C8te Dame Marie and Hill 287 from the west. Elements of the battalion succeeded in reaching the Romagne- Sommerance road. During the afternoon the 1st Battalion, I27th Infantry, remained in its position, "hile the 3d Battalion disengaged itself, passed to the east of La Cote Dame Marie 371] and continued the advance. [35.h 359, 369, 37°, The attack continued during the afternoon, and small local gains were made against strong resistance. The 3d Battalion, I28th Infantry, after passing through Romagne, reached the nose of the hill northeast of the town, but flanking fire from the right forced it to withdra~ to Ravin des Perrieres. By dusk this battalion was in contact with the 5th Di\-ision, the left of which was in the ravine about 750 meters northeast of Romagne. The gap in the line was covered by guns of the I2Ist 1Iachine- Gun Battalion located in Romagne, and those of the 13th Machine-Gun Battalion, 5th Division, located in shell holes on the ridge east of Romagne. The 1st Battalion, I25th Infantry, advanced several hundred meters north of the town and east of L' Andon Ruisseau where it was stopped. It was in touch with the 2d Battalion, I28th Infantry, which, "ith the 1st Bat- talion, had advanced to Depot de ~Iunitions, about I kilometer. north of Romagne. [30, 206, 359, 37~] The 3d Battalion, I26th Infantry, took the lead in the after- noon and advanced more than I kilometer north of the Ro- magne-Sommerance road. By 3 p. m. the I16th Infantry was in liaison with the 42d Division, across the front of the I27th Infantry. At dark, the I27th Infantry was not abreast of the left of the I26th Infantry, but was still advancing, and before .. midnight, October 14, had established contact with the left of the I26th Infantry, and with the right of the 42d Division on the divisional boundary about 400 meters southeast of Hill 288. [373,374,375] During the evening, patrols from both the I28th and I26th OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE )7 lce road, in the vicinity Infantry Regiments penetrated Bois de Bantheville as far as the of Romagne. Contact general line, Bantheville-Landres et St. Georges. [376] ; 1st Battalion, I28th The V Corps issued orders on the 14th for a renewal of the ld was maintained. At attack at 7:30 a. m., October 15, with objectives and zones of nfantry, had been sent action the same as for October 14. Arrival at the final objective [ill 287 from the west. was to be followed by exploitation to a generally east and west eaching the Romagne-- line through Arbre de Remonville, about I kilometer northwest oon the 1st Battalion, of Remonville. The 32d Division indorsed the corps orders to , while the 3d Battalion its brigades, without issuing formal field orders. [377, 378] : La C8te Dame Marie During the night of October I4~I 5 the area of the division I ] 9, 369, 370, 37 was divided into two brigade zones of action. The right zo~e ernoon, and small local of action was assigned to the 63d Infantry Brigade, which was lce. The 3d Battalion, to consist of the I28th and I25th Infantry Regi~ents, less o::e Romagne, reached the battalion in division reserve. The left zone of action was as- .It flanking fire from the signed to the 64th Infantry Brigade which was to consist of t~.e les Perrieres. By dusk I26th and I27th Infantry Regiments. 1\0 troop moverr.ems 5th Division, the left of were involved in this redistribution of regiments between the 3northeast of Romagne. brigades. [206] s of the I2Ist Machine- At midnight, October 14, the front line was held as fc.l- md those of the 13th lows: ocated in shell holes on I27th Infantry I26th Infantry I28th I nfan!ry ttalion, I25th Infantry, 2d Bn 3d Bn 1st Bn 3d Bn 2d Bn 1st Bn 2d Bn 3d Bn 1 of the town and east 1st Bn, I25th Inf Jped. It was in touch [3,9] \!hich, with the 1st Bat- The attack of October 15 began as scheduled, behind a rolling :ions, about I kilometer . barrage. On the extreme right the 3d Battalion, I28th b- Oct. 15 I fantry, could not advance at once owing to flanking fire from Jk the lead in the after- the right. The 2d Battalion advanced to the small L-shaped leter north of the Ro- wood on Hill 254, but at 8 :45 a. m. was driven back to Le the I26th Infantry was Niveau Ravin by a local counterattack. The 1st Battalion the front of the I27th could not progress beyond Le Niveau Ravin. [2e6, 380. 381, was not abreast of the 382] advancing, and before In the center, the I st Battalion, I26th Infantry, led t::e contact with the left ... attack, with the 2d Battalion in support, and advanced in .ht of the 42d Division Bois de Chauvignon. On the left, the 2d Battalion, I :'ith leters southeast of Hill Infantry, led the attack and by 9 a. m. was abreast of the I26th Infantry in the vicinity of the clearing southeast of h the I28th and I26th Fontaine de la Cayaniere. [383] 32D DIVISION - SUMMARY or OPER.-\TIONS

By noon the I26th Infantry and troops of the left battalion of the 128th Infantry succeeded in reaching the northern edge of Bois de Chauvignon. The 127th Infantry was unable to advance. [384] At 12:30 p. m. the corps ordered that Bois de Chauvignon would be taken during the afternoon and held. By 3 :45 p. m. the 1st and 2d Battalions, 128th Infantry, had occupied the east and north edges of the wood, and extended their lines to the southeast to connect with the 3d Battalion. This bat- talion had two companies on the northern slopes of Le 1\iveau Ravin and two companies across the railroad tracks about 500 meters north of Romagne. By this time the troops of the 126th Infantry, whose three battalions were also in the line, were in contact with the 1st Battalion, 118th Infantry, near the Fontaine de la Cavaniere-Bantheville road. The advance of the 127th Infantry, on the extreme left, was held up by the situation on the front of the 42d Division to its left. At 3 :30 p. m., however, the 42d Division took Hill 242, and the advance was resumed. Although in liaison with the 126th Infantry, the line of the 127th Infantry was not as far forward as that of the former in the afternoon. At 7 :30 p. m., the 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, attacked and advanced across the clearing southeast of Fontaine de la Ca\.aniere, where the line was held. The 3d Battalion, 127th Infantry, was to the left rear of the 2d Battalion, and was in contact with the 42d ] Division east of Hill 242. [385, 386, 387, 388, 389 The line for the night extended from its junction with the 5th Division on L' Andon Ruisseau about 500 meters north of the northeastern outskirts of Romagne, northwest to the eastern edge of Bois de Chauvignon, thence along the north- eastern and northern edges of that wood to its junction with Bois de Bantheville. From that point it extended generally west through the wood to the clearing opposite Fontaine de la Cavaniere, thence southwest to its junction with the front line of the 42d Division at the divisional boundary. [39°] No attack orders were issued on October 16 by either the Oct. 16 V Corps or the 32d Division. (Jo] 1\0 general advance was made on October 16. The lines ._ __ m_.______

, OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE 59

JOpS of the left battalion were organized for defense on this date: Strong combat pa- lching the northern edge trols from the I 27th and 126th Infantry Regiments reconnoitered Infantry was unable to Bois de Bantheville, and reported that the wood was not held in force. The positions of the battalions of the 128th Infantry hat Bois de Chauvignon ". remained as before. The 126th Infantry withdrew its merged lnd held. By 3 :45 p. m. 2d and 3d Battalions during the afternoon, replacing them antry, had occupied the with the 1st Battalion. Two companies of the 2d Battalion, d extended their lines to 125th Infantry, were placed between the 128th and 126th ;d Battalion. This bat- Infantry Regiments to strengthen that portion of the line. hern slopes of Le Niveau l391, 392,393] -ailroad tracks about 500 About 5:15 p. m. the 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, with time the troops of the the 3d Battalion in support, advanced to an east-west line ns were also in the line, through Fontaine de la Cavaniere. It maintained contact In, 128th Infantry, near with the 42d Division near the divisional boundary, about ville road. The advance 400 meters west of Fontaine de la Cavaniere. The whole north- ne left, was held up by ern portion of Bois de Chauvignon was mopped up and held. At Division to Its left. At midnight the line extended along the north edge of that wood. n took Hill 242, and the thence generally westward. [392, 394, 395] liaison with the 126th At 10:30 p. m. the 125th Infantry was ordered to be in "y was not as far forward readiness to move forward by daybreak, prepared to pass 1. At 7 :30 p. m., the 2d through the lines of the I 28th Infantry, for the purpose of gaining md advanced across the contact with the enemy. At the same time the 128th Infantrv a Cavaniere, where the was ordered to send out strong combat patrols at daybreak t~ 7th Infantry, was to the ascertain if the enemy had withdrawn. [396, 397] , in contact with the 42d At 6:30 a. m., October 17, officer patrols were sent out from ] 387,388,389 both the 126th and 127th Infantry Regiments for the purpose Oct. 17 Jm its junction with the of reconnoitering Bois de Bantheville. The patrols returned abou~ 500 meters north about I I a. m. after finding no enemy troops in the western part nagne, northwest to the of the wood south of the line, Hill 274-point 243, where an thence along the north- enemy outpost was encountered. The patrols did not pene- ood to its junction with trate the wood toward Hill 274, which was in the possession of nt it extended generally the enemy. A patrol from the 125th Infantry advanced along ; opposite Fontaine de la the eastern edge of Bois de Bantheville as far north as Fond junction with the front . de Verlet, and on the ridge west of Bantheville. [398, 399, 400] lal boundary. [390] Troops from the 2d Battalion, 128th Infantry, advanced )ctober 16 by either the ... into the L-shaped wood east of Bois de Chauvignon during the morning. This wood was held by a strong combat group. October 16. The lines [4°1] 60 32D DIVISION - SUMMARY OF OPEJL~TlO:oiS

About 6 a. m. a patrol from the 3d Battalion, 128th In- fantry, worked its way along the railroad tracks toward Banthe- ville. The patrol returned about 8 a. m., after observing groups of the enemy in the southern edge of the town, along Fond de VerIet and along the ridge immediately north thereof. [402] At 12:14 p. m. the V Corps directed the 32d Division to establish and intrench a strong line of observation posts in the northwest corner of Bois de Bantheville. Strong combat patrols were to continue through Bois de Bantheville and occupy the eastern and northern edges of the wood. [4°3] The 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, wlth one machine-gun company, moved forward during the afternoon and established a line along the western edge of Bois de Bantheville facing west and northwest. The point farthest north in this line was near the point where the trail from point 2+3 entered the wood. It was learned that the enemy maintained an out- post line which extended through point 2+3 and through the wood. The 1st Battalion, 126th Infantry. and two machine- gun companies, advanced during the afternoon and occupied the ridge in Bois de Bantheville southwest of Hill 262. This battalion connected with the right of the 2d Battalion, 127th * Infantry. The 2d Battalion, 125th Infantry, sent forward two strong combat groups which filled the gap between the left of the 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry, which had remained in the northern edge of Bois de Chauvignon, and the right of the 1st Battalion, 126th Infantry. One of these combat groups was at the road junction, 2 kilometers west of the church in Banthe- ville, in a position to cover the roads leading north and east from that point. [4°4, 405, 406, 407, +c8, .po] At I p. m. the 32d Division issued oreers relative to the organization of a main line of resistance from Romagne to La Cote Dame Marie, both inclusive. At +:25 p. m. the division issued additional field orders which provided that the recon- naissances in Bois de Bantheville would be continued in the areas vacated by the enemy, and that strong entrenched lines of observation would be prepared in the northern, eastern and northwestern edges of this wood. At 10:30 p. m. the V Corps 61 MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQtiENT SERVICE IF OPERATIONS

3d Battalion, 12Sth In- ordered its divisions to prepare to continue the advance, and lad tracks toward Banthe- specifically ordered the 32d Division to mop up Bois de Banthe- 3 a. m., after observing ville as far as Fond de Verlet. Artillery fire on sensitive points, commencing at 7 a. m., was to continue throughout the l edge of the town, along nmediately north thereof. day of October IS. The 32d Division indorsed these field orders to its brigades. [206, 4II, 412] .cted the 32d Division to During the afternoon the 3d Battalion, 12Sth Infantry, was ~ of observation posts in withdrawn from its position in the front line on the right of the ltheville. Strong combat divisional zone, and with the 3d Battalion, 126th Infantry, was Bois de Bantheville and assigned the task of assisting the division engineers in construct- :s of the wood. [ 403 ] ing a line of defense on the old Kriemhild Stellung along the new T, with one machine-gun main line of resistance. The relief of the 3d Battalion, 12Sth afternoon and established Infantry, was effected by an extension of the zones of the .1st ois de Bantheville facing and 2d Battalions of the regiment. [410, 413, 414] rthest north in this line The order of battle of front-line elements of the 32d Division 'om point 243 entered the at midnight, October 17, was, from right to left: 2d and 1st emy maintained an out- Battalions, I2Sth Infantry; 2d Battalion, 125th Infantry; 1st Jint 243 and through the Battalion, 126th Infantry; 2d, 3d and 1st Battalions, 127th fantry, and two machine- Infantry. [410] e afternoon and occupied Contact with the 5th and 42d Divisions was maintained thwest of Hill 262. This during the night of October 17-1S at the same points as. on ,f the 2d Battalion, 127th the previous night. [4 15] . nfantry, sent forward two In the early morning of October I S there was active patrolling Ie gap between the left of by all front-line units. The 12Sth Infantry sent patrols to the Oct. 18 .hich had remained in the southern edge of Bantheville, but, with the exception of working n, and the right of the 1st parties to the west of the town, found no enemy troops in the these combat groups was vicinity. The 125th Infantry sent patrols along the eastern it of the church in Banthe- edge of Bois de Bantheville and north of Fond de Verlet. ds leading north and east These patrols located small groups of the enemy on the ridge 7, 40S, 410] west of Bantheville, and in the vicinity of Hill 274. [416,417, led orders relative to the 41S, 419, 420, 421] lnce from Romagne to La Toward evening the 2d Battalion, 125th Infantry, advanced At 4:25 p. m. the division to the vicinity of the bend in the trail 400 meters northwest provided that the recon- of Hill 274, and held the line with strong combat groups on ;ould be continued in the the edges of the wood to the north and northeast. The 3d .at strong entrenched lines Battalion, 125th Infantry, extended the line of the 2d Battalion the northern, eastern and to the right, and took position between the right of the zd ,t 10:30 p. m. the V Corps Battalion, 125th Infantry, and the left of the 1st Battalion, 32D DIVISION - SUM~{ARY or OPERATIONS

128th Infantry, facing generally east in the area west of Hill 274 between Fond de Verlet and the bend in the trail 400 meters northwest of Hill 274. The 1st Battalion, 126th Infantry, continued the occupation of that portion of the wood east of point 243. The 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, remained ... echeloned to the left rear of that battalion. To the left of the 2d Battalion, 127th Infantry, Company D was detailed as liaison company with the 42d Division. [418, 421, 422] The line for the night of October 18-19 extended from the divisional east boundary along the line held the previous night to the intersection of Fond de Verlet and the eastern edge of Bois de Bantheville, thence north to Les Halbutes, thence west to the western edge of the wood, thence along the western edge of Bois de Bantheville to the divisional west boundary. [3°, 421] At 8 :30 p. m. the V Corps ordered the 32d Division to con- tinue to exploit vigorously to the front. Artillery bombard- ment of sensitive points was to be continued during the day of October 19. The 32d Division indorsed these orders to its brigades, directing Bois de Bantheville to be mopped up, and that part of the hostile fourth position which lay along the ridges east, north and west of the northernmost portion of the wood to be developed thoroughly. [424] Strong combat patrols continued operating in Bois de Ban- Oct. theville during the day of October 19, but no change resulted 19-20 in the front line of the 32d Division. The enemy was located in considerable strength along a well-defined line on the ridge west of Bantheville, through Bois de Bantheville and at La Dhuy Ferme. [425, 426, 427, 428] At I I a. m. the V Corps directed the relief of the 32d Divi- sion, less the 57th Field Artillery Brigade and I07th Ammuni- tion Train, and attached 147th Field Artillery, 41st Division, by the 89th Division during the night of October 19-20. The relief of the 64th Infantry Brigade was completed at 1:3° a. m., and of the 63d Infantry Brigade at 2 :30 a. m., October 20. Command of the zone passed to the 89th Division at 8 a. m., October 20. [423, 429, 430, 43 I] By the end of October, the First Army had accomplished MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQl:ENT SERVICE OPERATIONS Oct. 21- the first part of its plan for the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. n the area west of Hill It had seized the hostile third position in Bois de Foret, on Nov. 8 bend in the trail 400 the heights of Cunel and Romagne and on Cote de Chatillon, 1st Battalion, 126th southeast of Landres et St. Georges. The enemy had been hat portion of the wood driven from the Argonne Forest, and the left of the First Army 27th Infantry, remained was firmly established, in contact with the right of the French lion. To the left of the Fourth Army, at Grandpre. East of the l\Ieuse, the heights .ny D was detailed as had been cleared as far as the southern portion of Bois de la [418, 421, 422] Grande Montagne. The First Army was now in a position to )-19 extended from the undertake the second operation, i. e., cut the Carignan-Sedan:- held the previous night Mezieres railroad, and drive the enemy beyond the ~IeU5e. and the eastern edge of On October 12 the front of the First Army east of Fresnes-en- s Halbutes, thence west Woevre, 18 kilometers southeast of Yerdun, had been placed ~along the western edge under the command of the newly organized Second Army. 11 west boundary. [30, [ 202 ] . East of the Meuse, the front of the First Army, which was he 32d Division to con- now held by the French XXXIII and French XYII Corps nt. Artillery bombard- kilometers south of the from right to left was approximately 5 .inued during the day of line west of the river. West of the ~Ieuse, the front line of 'sed these orders to its the First Army, which was held by the III, V and I Corps ~ to be mopped up, and from right to left, included Bois de Foret, Bois des Rappes, :m which lay along the Bois de Bantheville and Cote de Chatillon. From this point :hernmost portion of the it extended generally west to Grandpre. To the west, the 24] ,erating in Bois de Ban- French Fourth Army lay behind the Aisne Rinr, with a bridgehead north of Vouziers. Thus the hostile lines, opposite but no change resulted the left of the First Army and the right of the French Fourth The enemy was located Army, formed a salient, dominated by the wooded heights of :iefined line on the ridge Bantheville and at La Bois de Bourgogne. [ 202 ] At first it was planned to launch the attack on October :8 ,e relief of the 32d Divi- but, owing to the fact that the French Fourth Army was not yet ready, the date was postponed to ::\ovember 1. The main ade and 107th Ammuni- Artillery, 41st Division, attack was to be delivered in the center by the V Corps. This of October 19-20. The corps was to drive north and penetrate the hostile fourth FO- completed at 1:3° a. m., .. sition by seizing the heights of Barricourt. The I Corps was to protect the left of the V Corps and extend the penetration 2:3° a. m., October 20. ;9th Division at 8 a. m., westward through Thenorgues. It was then to drive on to the . northwest and effect a junction, in the vicinity of Boult-aux- Army had accomplished Bois, with the French Fourth Army, which was to advance west 32D DIVISION - Sl.'M~!ARYor OPERATIONS

of Bois de Bourgogne. The III Corps was to assist and protect the right of the V Corps, and extend the penetration eastward to the heights west of the :Meuse River. With the hostile fourth position securely in American hands, the enemy positions west of the Meuse would be untenable. The V and I Corps were to pursue vigorously toward Sedan, in conjunction with the French Fourth Army. The left of the III Corps was to pursue toward Stenay, while its right forced a crossing of the :Meuse south of Dun and drove on Louppy-sur-Loison. The French XVII Corps was to support this crossing by exerting pressure on the enemy and, in case of a withdrawal, was to advance on Damvillers. [202, 453] The attack was launched on 1\ovember I and was highly successful. The defenses and artillery lines of the hostile fourth position were penetrated and the enemy pursued vigorously toward Sedan. By November 8 the V and I Corps had driven the enemy beyond the Meuse River, occupied the river line from Stenay to Sedan and cut, by artillery fire, the Carignan- Sedan-Mezieres railroad. The III Corps, upon reaching the Meuse River, had forced a crossing of the river on its right south of Dun-sur-Meuse. The bridgehead thus established had been rapidly enlarged by clearing the heights east of the river. Op. November 8 the III Corps had the 5th and 90th Divisions in line from right to left. The 5th Division, east of the river, had reached the general line, Brandeville-Cote Saint Germain- Lion-devant-Dun. The 90th Division held the west bank of the Meuse from opposite Lion-dennt-Dun to Stenay. The left of the French II Colonial Corps, which had relieved the French XVII Corps on November 6, had adnnced in conjunc- tion with the 5th Division. [3, 202] Following its relief from the front line in Bois de Ban-oeville on October 20, the 32d Division, without its organic artillery, had been held in Bois de Cheppy, Bois de Yery and Bois de Montfaucon, as reserve of the Y Corps until October 27, and of the III Corps thereafter. The I58th Field Artillery Brigade, 83d Division, was attached to the division on October 29 and remained with it until after the Armistice. The division, still in III Corps reserve, moved to the vicinity of Romagne-sous- ~ ..-

OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUE:-IT SERVICE 65 was to assist and protect Montfaucon on November 3, and to Bois des Rappes and Bois he penetration eastward de la Pultiere on November 4. On November 6 the 128th iver. With the hostile Infantry, which had been attached to the 5th Division, entered nds, the enemy positions the line in Bois de Chatillon and Bois de Sartelle east of the e. The V and I Corps 1 Meuse River and about 9 kilometers southwest of Breheville. , in conjunction with the [ I, 432, 433, 434] III Corps was to pursue At midnight, November 8, the III Corps ordered the 32d Nov. 9 a crossing of the Meuse Division to be ready to take up the pursuit at any time after ur-Loison. The French 8 a. m., November 9, on the axis, Brieulles-sur-Meuse- g by exerting pressure on Ecurey-Vittarville, in advance-guard formation. In the event wal, was to advance on that this pursuit was ordered, the 128th Infantry, then in the front line in the vicinity of Brandeville, was to revert to the mber I and was highly command of the 32d Division. The immediate movement of cines of the hostile fourth one regiment of infantry of the 32d Division to Brieulles was ~my pursued vigorously also ordered. The zone of action of the division was to be as and I Corps had driven follows: occupied the river line Right boundary: Ecurey (incl.)-road from Ecurey to lery fire, the Carignan- Damvillers (excl.). 'orps, upon reaching the Left boundary: Brandeville (excl.)-point 206 (excl.)- )f the river on its right Hill 240.7 (incl.). ead thus established had leights east of the river. The French 15th Colonial Infantry Division of the French II : 5th and 90th Divisions Colonial Corps was to the right of the zone assigned to the 32d vision, east of the river, Division and the American 5th Division to the left. Elements e-C6te Saint Germain- of the French division in the zone of action assigned to the 32d . held the west bank of Division were to be relieved by the latter. [435, 436] t-Dun to Stenay. The Upon receipt of these instructions at 1:10 a. m., November which had relieved the 9, the 32d Division at once ordered the 127th Infantry to pro- ad advanced in conjunc- ceed to Brieulles. This movement was completed at 5 :40 a. m. [437, 438] Ie in Bois de Ban~eville At 6:30 a. m. the division directed that in the event of an out its organic artillery, enemy withdrawal, pursuit would be initiated with brigades in is de Very and Bois de column. The 128th Infantry was ordered to relieve elements }s until October 27, and '. of the French 15th Colonial Infantry Division in the zone of , Field Artillery Brigade, action of the 32d Division. The formation of the leading ision on October 29 and brigade was to be as follows: ..... ;tice. The division, still cinity of Romagne-sous- --~~ ~ -~._-~-----

OPERATlO:-lS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQt7E:-IT SERVICE 65 was to assist and protect Montfaucon on November 3, and to Bois des Rappes and Bois he penetration eastward de la Pultiere on November 4. On i\ovember 6 the I'28th iver. With the hostile Infantry, which had been attached to the 5th Division, entered nds, the enemy positions the line in Bois de Chatillon and Bois de Sartelle east of the le. The V and I Corps Meuse River and about 9 kilometers southwest of Breheville. I, in conjunction with the [ 1, 43'2, 433, 434] III Corps was to pursue At midnight, November 8, the III Corps ordered the 3'2d Of}. a crossing of the Meuse Division to be ready to take up the pursuit at any time after N 9 ur-Loison. The French 8 a. m., November 9, on the axis, Brieulles-sur-Meuse-- g by exerting pressure on Ecurey-Vittarville, in advance-guard formation. In the event wal, was to advance on that this pursuit was ordered, the 1'28th Infantry, then in the front line in the vicinity of Brandeville, was to revert to the mber I and was highly command of the 3'2d Division. The immediate movement of lines of the hostile fourth one regiment of infantry of the 32d Division to Brieulles was emy pursued vigorously also ordered. The zone of action of the division was to be as and I Corps had driven follows: occupied the river line Right boundary: Ecurey (incl.)-road from Ecurey to lery fire, the Carignan- Damvillers (excl.). :orps, upon reaching the Left boundary: Brandeville (excl.)-point '206 (excl.)- )f the river on its right Hill '240.7 (incl.). ead thus established had heights east of the river. The French 15th Colonial Infantry Division of the French II ~ 5th and 90th Divisions Colonial Corps was to the right of the zene assigned to the 3'2d vision, east of the river, Division and the American 5th Division to the left. Elements e-Cote Saint Germain- of the French division in the zone of action assigned to the 3'2d l held the west bank of Division were to be relieved by the latter. [435, 4-36] t-Dun to Stenay. The Upon receipt of these instructions at 1:10 a. m., November which had relieved the 9, the 32d Division at once ordered the I2-;-th Infantry to pro- ad advanced in conjunc- ceed to Brieulles. This movement was completed at 5 :40 a. m. [437, 438] Ie in Bois de Ban4lheville At 6:30 a. m. the division directed that in the event of an out its organic artillery, enemy withdrawal, pursuit would be initiated with brigades in ,is de Very and Bois de column. The I'28th Infantry was oreered to relieve elements )s until October '27, and '. of the French 15th Colonial Infantry Division in the zone of action of the 3'2d Division. The formation of the leading I Field Artillery Brigade, ision on October '29 and brigade was to be as follows: 3tice. The division, still cinity of Romagne-sous- 66 32D DIVISION - SUMMARY OF OPERATIOSS

64TH INFANTRY BRIGADE 127th Infantry, with one com- 128th Infantry, with one com- pany, 121st J\1achine-Gun pany, 121st ::\Iachine-Gun Battalion attached Battalion attached , I 121st Machine-Gun Battalion, II9th J\Iachine-Gun Battalion less two companies 1st Battalion, 322d Field Artil- lery 2d Battalion, I07th Engineers [438,439, 440, 441] At 12:45 p. m., the III Corps ordered the pursuit to be taken up. Advance guards were to cross the line, Damvillers- Lissey-Brandeville, at 2 p. m. J\Ioyements which had been provided for in the field orders of the 32d Diyision were begun immediately and continued throughout the afternoon. The I28th Infantry, having reverted to the 32d Diyision, reported the location of its battalions at 5:30 p. m. as foHows: 3d Bat- talion in the front line in the yicinity of Peuvillers; 2d Battalion in the front line in the vicinity of Brehhille; 1st Battalion in support in Ecurey. [438, 442, 443, 444] During the night of l'\ovember 9-10 the 127th Infantry re- lieved the 2d Battalion, 128th Infantry, east of Breheyille. Other movements necessary to place the elements of the division in the desired formation were completed under cover of dark- ness. [437, 440] The 64th Infantry Brigade advanced at 6 a. m., l'\ovember Nov. 10 10. The 128th Infantry attacked in column of battalions, the 1st, 2d and 3d in that order, from a north and south line on the road east of Peuvillers. Under cOYer of a heavy fog, rapid progress was made. The 1st Battalion fought its way through Bois Demange and into Bois Pommepre, the leading elements reaching the northern edge of Bois de Dombras and the southern slopes of Cote du Mont. About 9 a. m. the fog lifted and the 128th Infantry found that it had adnnced oyer 3 kilometers into the enemy lines, and was unable to establish liaison with troops to either flank. J\Iachine-gun nests that had been passed over in the fog opened fire from the flanks and rear. The regi- .. ment withdrew in good order, and at 2 p. m. joined the main body along the road east of Peuvillers, the original line of de- )F OPERATIONS MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, SUBSEQUENT SERVICE

RIGADE parture. Liaison was established with the French 15th Colonial h Infantry, with one com- Infantry Division, to the right, which had not advanced, and, ny, I21st l\1achine-Gun later in the day, with the I27th Infantry to the left. The Htalion attached I28th Infantry held this position during the remainder of the h Machine-Gun Battalion f day. [30, 438, 440, 445] ~attalion, 322d Field Artil- The I27th Infantry, with the 1st Battalion leading, the 7 3d Battalion in support and the 2d Battalion in reserve, lattalion, I07th Engineers attacked in the direction of Boemont Ferme from a line 1,500 kilometers to [438,439, 440, 441] meters east of Breheville. This was about 3 ed the pursuit to be taken the left rear of the line of departure of the I28th Infantry. s the line, Damvillers- Company F advanced abreast of the 1st Battalion, and acted )Vements which had been as a combat-liaison group between the I27th Infantry and the ~ 32d Division were begun 5th Division to the left. Overcoming enemy rear guards, .out the afternoon. The the advance of the regiment was steady until 4:30 p. m., when he 32d Division, reported it was stopped about 200 meters west of Thinte Ruisseau by p. m. as follows: 3d Bat- fire from the east bank. This line was held during the night of Peuvillers; 2d Battalion by the 1st Battalion and Company F. Liaison was estab- reheville; 1st Battalion in lished by patrols with the 128th Infantry and the 5th Division. [30, 438, 446 ] ~44 ] 10 the I27th Infantry re- During the afternoon the 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry, mtry, east of Breheville. moved into support in the center of Bois de Lissey to cover the he elements of the division gap between the I27th and I28th Infantry Regiments. [438] eted under cover of dark- At 8 :30 p. m. the III Corps issued orders for the continuation of the attack on November I!. The 31d Division was to :ed at 6 a. m., November capture the line of hills overlooking the Crusnes River on the column of battalions, the line, Arrancy-Longuyon, 20 kilometers to the east of the front t north and south line on then held. [438,447] over of a heavy fog, rapid In accordance with these instructions the 64th Infantry )n fought its way through Brigade ordered an attack for 7 a. m., :1\ovember I I, with Bois ~pre, the leading elements de Grand Failly, Bois de Rupt, Bois de Marville, and the Dombras and the southern wooded heights east of Delut, as objectives. There was to be . m. the fog lifted and the a short artillery preparation on known enemy positions prior lvanced over 3 kilometers to the attack, and the advance was to be covered by artillery e to establish liaison with and machine-gun barrages. There was no change in the forma- nests that had been passed tion of the brigade other than the attachment of the 1st Battal- flanks and rear. The regi- .. ion, I25th Infantry, to the I28th Infantry. [156, 448] t 2 p. m. joined the main Shortly before the hour of attack on Kovember II, the III 'rs, the original line of de- Corps informed the 32d Division that an armistice was to take Nov. I I 68 32D DIVISION - SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS

effect at I I a. m. and that all troops were to hold the positions then occupied until further orders. These instructions were rushed forward to the front-line troops and the attack was stopped. The lines remained the same as on the previous day. [30, 438, 440] Following the Armistice the division outposted the Armistice , Nov. 12, line and made preparations for the march into Germany. On 1918- November 14 it relieved the 5th Division on the line, Jametz- May 1919 Remoiville:-Louppy (incl.). On Km-ember 17 it began the march into Germany, taking positions in the Coblenz Bridge- head in the vicinity of Dierdorf and Rengsdorf on December 14. On April 18 the division moved to Brest where it was rejoined by the artillery brigade. The 107th Trench-Mortar Battery sailed for the United States on April 20, followed by the remainder of the division during April and May. The last elements arrived in New York on May 22. [I]

CASUALTIES, MEUSE-ARGOX};"E OFFE~SIVE

. I I S

1 15~~v[r-~~~~!-I!u ~u ~--;::I ::::::! 1, . 1 !::::::~:::::: ::::::, ~ ~u (S pt. 2 Oct 6, 0 t. 20- D\\ 00 0000001 1 00_0..00 00--00 .0000- 1 . 00:__00__ { 1 00__00 1 Nov. 2; Nov. 8-111 K__uluuu'I , 1 00__00 1 __h~~ 119th MG Bn_uuu__UU__Uh_ ~~dm_~L_::_'___~~_'m.~J.h~_, :::::: {K.U.lh__hl 1 2 001 1 00 3 Wm- __ 47' 36 191.000001.00000[1.00___ __0000 1027 120th MG Bn._UUUh Uh DW 2 5 0000_'00 {Kh.. 4 5 _.000'0000001_00000 0000__ 9 W.m __ 5 74 12 ,0000001 1 3 95 " 1 5 .00.__'._0000 000000 n 6 121st MG Bn_h_U h_oo___ {DW Khh 1 15 _000_1__00__ 1_.000_ 1 1 17 MEUSE-ARGONNE OFFENSIVE, S1:BSEQUEST SERVICE F OPERATIONS

CASUALTIES, MEUSE-ARGO~KE OFFE..~SIVE-Continued vere to hold the positions These instructions were Sept. Oct. I,Qco_ Oc.., Oct. 28- :\ ov. ,ops and the attack was 26- . I T ota I ~t. H3 14-20 121-27 ::\;r' 1~11 ame as on the previous : r I - - -- " 32dDwi.rion-Continued -1-i~ w __n noon 11; 1 I 3 21 __ , I 1 outposted the Armistice 000000'__00 I 2 2 107th Engrsn nn___n___n_ DW 00' __nU nU__ {K_n_ ---00- larch into Germany. On (OS Sept. 26-Dct. 3) 00' --0.--'-00--.1--00-- }j\V~: 2~ 3l =_ __n~_ ~ ~ Others n I ~- ;ion on the line, Jametz- {K__n 7 I 6 3 , 1 1 1~ I ,vember 17 it began the I TotaLn nn__nn__n___n__ _435 13,519 1.252'.. _ 87 _ 51 484 5.8~ IS in the Coblenz Bridge- Attached UnitJ - i------1,__0000 00 W 4! ,00 -00--- 4! --00 00 Rengsdorf on December 361st In! (91st Div)_ n_nn 1 (Oct. 7-8; 11-12) { ~~:: ::::::1 2~'::::::!::::::::::::__00__ :::::: . 2~ , 00--00 33 d to Brest where it was ( . ) Wn-- 33 '00 1__0000 362dIn! 91,t DIV __00_0000 00 00 ' 2 I 00 1 noon 2 OW 00--00 ;0.00--', --00-- (Oct. 11-12) { -- ' 'he I07th Trench-Mortar 1 {t::::::::::1 ~::::::!:::::: 1 :::::: :::::: ~ on April 20, followed by 347th MG Bn (91,t DiV)nn_nn_ DW __0.001___00_ --00-- --0000 --00-- {K__n , 1__00__ __00__ 4 (Oct.7-8; 11-12) -- 001 4 ' ' 1 21 Ig April and May. The W 8 12 i--n-- 00 147th FA (41st DiV) n---n j 1 I May 22. [I] (Oct. 7-19; Nov. 3-7) { ~~:: :::::: ~_::::::C::: ::::::::::::__n_~ Ii I ~- J NE OFFENSIVE iJ;:/tJfJ~gt~)jO::N~;,:-ll)h---{~:':~~ ::::~J::::::::::{:::: W 00__001 00 1 2 3 323d FA (83d D'v) , 1 (Sept.26-30;Oc~.jO=-N~;:-lIY {~~:: ::::::1:::::: ::::::i::::::C::: :::::: :::::: Oct. Oct. Oct. 28- N0V Total 14--20 21-27 Nov. Io-ll' iJ~~~.~tJg;'b~~V;~N~~:II) {~:':~: 9 ::::::::::::: ::::::::::::I::::~: ::::::I::::~~,0 W 16 14 --0.-- --0.-- DiV)n n , 113th FA (3Oth OW 00 1 00 ------(Oct. 1-8) { --00-- 00 {t:::: : ll:::::::::::::' :::::: :::::: 15 16 7 6 788 114th FA (30th DiV)-m--unnn 1 1 ) 96 { 9 1 74 i--n;t ------j- --nr,---;rI 2 32 20 236 1;~ :::::I::::f:::: :::::: ---io- ~~;:~ (30th Div) _-0000 ~~:: 6 214 6 4 1.051 ~~:: 91 (Oct. 1-8) { OJ 3 18 ----so ------:::::: j-;::::::!::::::I:::::: :::::: 30 214 {W_n_ ---00- 9 , 00' 9 7 ----s- 962 S 261 11 31 122d FA (33d Div) 101 I 0 27 ----5- 4 1 105 ----g- 6 258 6 254 3 6 295 1,184 ".)::::::::::!~~~::-:iii:I_..:..I::" 6 20 1 22 101 ;~;;.;;" 1 0 104 7 4 95 313 {t:::::::::: 2~::::::::::::: :::::: :::::: 2~ 1 18 124th FA (33d DiV) n n_ 9 8 ------{ j 2 (Oct.HI) j 1 1 1 .------~~:: :::::: ;::::::1:::::::::::: :::::: 2 W_n_ _noh, 1 : 0.00-- 22 1 I -_.--- _.------n , ' 4 8 12 149th FA (42d Div)-00 ~~:: ------2 (Oct. 7-12) { 2 1 1 -.--.. ------::::::1 2-'::::::1:::::::::::: :::::: 1 1 2 W --00--1 15 0.1 0. 15 ------7 150th FA (42d DiV)-_-n--nnnh --nO. 4 3 .-_.------{ 1 -_.--- _.---- 1 (Oct. 7-12) ~~:::::::: i::::::::::::: :::::: :::::: i ------, ------1 16 1 W 00--00 16 :--nni---n- 0. ------1 :2 ---i4- 1 ----i- 45 151st FA (42d DiV) n_n__nn j ------(Oct. 7-12) {~~:: ::::::j"-T::::::I::::::,:::::: ::::::I j- 2-:::::: :::::: :::::: OJ

u__n 0000__ nOon 102 307; 12 8 11 372 6 19 TotaL u 34 I 1 1 00_00_ 7 I 5 00 000000 __0000 __0000 00 9 5 00 AggregatetotaL_u_.nn___nn__ 46913.8:61.2£91 87., 591 495 16.205 '~ n.~=_:::::: ~_ u___~_ 9~ 15 _00.00 0000__\ 1 17 W-wound. not mortal; DW=died of wound.; K-killed in action; DS=detached service.