Commendations

Commendations

" Speak softly but carry a big stick" - Theodore Roosevelt

Brigadier General William F. Dean, Commander 44th Infantry Division - Germany 1945

(photo courtesy of Louis A. Sliazis, M/Sgt. USAR Ret.)

Commendation to the 44th Infantry Division for action of December 31, 1944 - January 2, 1945.

Commendation to the 324th Infantry Regimental Combat Team

The 324th Regimental Combat Team under the command of Colonel Kenneth S. Anderson recently went through some of the toughest fighting of the campaign in Germany when they were attached to the 4th Infantry Division, achievements that up till now have been pretty much hidden in the obscurity that often falls upon an attached outfit.

During their tour with the 4th Infantry, the 324th smashed a determined German effort to cut the main communications route of the 10th Armored, spearheaded the attack of the XXI Corps in the 4th Infantry Division attack in the Rotenburg area, repulsed two strong German counter-attacks, and captured 1750 prisoners.

For their work during this period, the 324th received a letter of commendation from Major General F.W. Millburn, Commanding General, XXI Corps, in which "the soldierly aggressiveness, and exemplary fighting spirit" of the 324th was praised.

"In the mission of protecting the 4th Infantry Division's right flank; in the occupation of Niederstetten, and repelling two strong enemy counter-attacks; in assisting in the capture of Rothenburg by an aggressiveness and exemplary fighting spirit," General Milburn's citation said, "these accomplishments reflect credit on your leadership and the courage of your men."

In a letter of indorsement to his regiment, Colonel Anderson added that "The regiment and associated units have brought considerable honor to the Division, and every officer and man can be proud of the reputation that this combat team has gained during it's many months of combat. Since October 24th we have seldom been out of direct contact with the enemy, and we feel greatly honored that our services have been so valuable to the Division that the normal rest periods were denied us."

With the 324th during this attachment to the 4th Infantry were "C" Company, 772 Tank Bn., "B" Company 776 TD Bn., and the 220th Artillery Bn.

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