Machtum
David.Gettman January 31st, 2008
From:
SECOND UNITED STATES CAVALRY – A HISTORY
Compiled, edited and published by Historical Section, Second Cavalry Association
Maj. A. L. Lambert and Cpt. G. B. Layton, 2d Cavalry
11 – 18 January 1945
Troop C, 2d Squadron
The Troop rested, except for a five man patrol under Cpl. Holtz that went out to go over the route that was to be used in the attack. All during the day Capt. Morrison and his officers planned the attack, looking over the terrain and coordinating with the supporting artillery Battalion and our own E Troop. The mission was an important one and knowing this, all possible precautionary measures were taken.
With everything planned and everyone rested, the three recon platoons and the CP moved out before 0030, dismounted, and moved to the woods north of Machtum (map 33). After a short halt to get reorganized, we moved close to the town and waited for 0300, at which time a 15 minute barrage from the supporting artillery fell on the objective. The Troop was so close to the barrage that the men were showered with stones and dirt from the exploding shells. Continue Reading »
