PREFACE
The purpose of this study is
- to assemble all available data on the use of armor in the HURTGEN FOREST between 14 September and 15 December 1944,
- to evaluate the contribution of armor to the First United States Army offensive in this area, and
- to interpret our findings in the light of past and present doctrine of armored employment.
In approaching this study all sources available were explored. The principal sources include unit histories, after action reports, combat interviews, and personal interviews. Not all of these sources were accessible for each unit considered and as a result there is a certain lack of balance in the chapters making up the report. For example, while an abundance of material was available on the 5th Armored Division and the 707th Tank Battalion, combat interviews with personnel of the 709th Tank Battalion could not be obtained. Certain data regarding the other units listed in the report were also unobtainable. However, within these limits the committee has attempted to do justice to each armored unit involved.
In view of the purpose of the report the infantry picture will seem somewhat slighted. This was done knowingly, not through any desire to overlook the gallant actions of the many infantry units involved, but because time and space did not permit a full account of these actions. The few conflicting reports of action have been checked and evaluated to arrive at what is believed to be the most probable conclusions. The interpretations and conclusions reflect the opinion of the committee; however, the committee wishes to acknowledge its indebtedness to the following officers who made themselves available for interview and on several occasions lent their time in order to review and comment upon the early drafts of the actions of their units: Lt. Col. W. A. Hamberg, 10th Tank Battalion, 5th Armored Division; Lt. Col. Wallace J. Nichols, 745th Tank Battalion; Lt. William K. Sanders, 745th Tank Battalion; Lt. Col. Robert S. Garner, 707th Tank Battalion; Major Lewis C. Taynton, 70th Tank Battalion; Captain James D. McLanachan, 70th Tank Battalion.
The committee further wishes to thank the Research and Evaluation division and other departments of The Armored School whose personnel have been helpful in the reproduction of maps and photographs, the procurement of source materials, and other tasks necessary to the preparation of this report.
