“U.S. 90th Plays Historic Role”- Part 3.

Over the last week, we have brought you Part 1 and Part 2 of a wonderful World War II newspaper period piece titled, “U.S. 90th Plays Historic Role: Army Identifies Unit That Did Some of the Heaviest Fighting in Normandy Battles.” It was dated July 19, 1944, and written by Gene Currivan, with the New York Times. He was traveling with the 90th in Normandy.  Today, we bring you the conclusion. And so it ends.

GENERAL IN STREET FIGHTING

“In the fighting rank meant little. At Gourbesville, the assistant divisional commander fought off snipers in the street and was in the direct line of possible fire from the four hidden Germans. They were apparently unaware that a general was in range, but they held their fire rather than disclose their position.

“With the 82nd Airborne Division, the 90th defended the southern flank while other troops moved northward to take Cherbourg. This division was the principle factor in setting the trap for the Germans caught between Cherbourg and the southern line of the peninsula. One hundred and sixty-one Germans were killed while attempting to flee, one company of one infantry regiment.

“One of the division’s outstanding feats was the capture of the Foret de Mont Castre, known to the army as Hill 122. This high spot was the anchor of the main line of resistance in this sector. The hill, which was heavily mined, was taken after four days that those who lived to tell it will never forget.

“Captain Leroy (Fireball) Pond, whose battalion was completely surrounded moved within 400 yards of the German position, carrying a portable radio, and relayed information of the enemy position to the artillery. From a perch in a tree he directed the fire that cleaned out the enemy and freed his battalion. His helmet was knocked off by shrapnel and some bent his radio antenna during the three hours that he stayed at his post, but he remained until every enemy gun had been stilled and his men were again on the offensive.”

2 Responses to ““U.S. 90th Plays Historic Role”- Part 3”

  1. Tristan says:

    Really captivating set of article.
    I don’t want to promote myself, but I have recently published something about LeRoy Pond here : http://www.shilohmuseum.org/photo_collections/photo_month.php

    You may find it interesting Mike.
    Keep it coming !
    T.

  2. mikemccoy says:

    Hi Tristan,

    Thanks for including a link to your wonderful piece on LeRoy Pond. I enjoyed it very much. Your contributions are certainly always welcome. Please keep bringing us more.

    Best Wishes,
    Mike

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