Bowden's Wood WTO (id:#66503)

(ASL Journal #14 ID: J244)   [next]   [previous]

Kurtzenhouse, France 1945-01-19 (7 others)

Overview:

SS-Panzer-Division 10 "Frundsberg" had deployed across the Rhine to take on the American forces defending Haguenau and Strasbourg in Alsace. This was the final act of Operation NORDWIND, the German offensive now in its third week. The American 12th Armored Division had previously failed to slow down the Germans and was now pushed onto the defensive, a task to which it was ill-suited. Quickly, other American units were pushed into the area, including the 36th Infantry Division. Better equipped for defensive warfare, this experienced unit took up positions to the south of Haguenau, occupying woods near the village of Kurtzenhouse, terrain suited to the infantrymen. To dislodge these Americans, the Germans employed panzergrenadiers supported by a handful of panzers. The SS panzergrenadiers were keen, but their veteran ranks were diluted by numerous recruits. The initial assault occurred in the early hours against elements of 2nd Battalion, 143rd Infantry Regiment, led by Battalion Executive Officer, Lt. Colonel Marion Bowden.

Defender: American (2nd Battalion, 143rd Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division)  

Errata (source)