Foret de Gremecey-Forest, Defense, September-October 1944

Abstract

In late September 1944, Third US Army was ordered to halt its advance in Lorraine and go over to the defensive. XII Corps consolidated its position east of Nancy; 35th ID(-) secured the Foret de Gremecy, which commanded the main highway to the city from the east. The division defended initially minus its third regiment, which was in corps reserve. On 26 September, the Germans launched a deliberate attack to penetrate 35th ID sector and re-take Nancy. By the 28th, the Germans had established a foothold in the Foret; all three regiments from 35th ID were engaged. A US counterattack on the 29th was defeated, and heavy close combat raged throughout the day and night. Despite orders to halt the attack, the next morning XIII SS Pz Corps launched its heaviest assault with elements of four divisions. The 35th ID steadily was forced back, and the division commander committed his last reserves. The Commander, XII (US) Corps, worried that the Germans would isolate and destroy US forces east of the Seille River, ordered the 35th ID to withdraw. The Third Army Commander personally countermanded the order and directed XII Corps to counterattack with 6th Armored Division. The 35th ID held. On 1 October the 6th AD attacked through the 35th ID and seized key terrain north and east of the Foret. 35th ID consolidated the gains and relieved 6th AD that night. The Germans began their withdrawal, and on 2 October 35th ID cleared the Foret de Gremecy of enemy forces.