352.I.D. - Phone Log - 6.6.1944

The following is an extract from the telephone diary of the 352.Inf-Div. on the Bayeux Costal Defense Sector, 6.6.1944 (MS # B-388).

===== Return to the 352.Inf-Div. on D-Day =====

0100 Hours LXXXIV Army Corps the 352 Inf Div

State of readiness II. Parachutists jumped on the 716 Inf Div sector.

0115 Hours Putting all units on the alert by telephone ended.

0145 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

From fifty to sixty parachutists jumped near Carentan canal south of Brevands.

0200 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

A new landing of parachute troops from thirty to fifty aircraft, south of Brevands. Individual parachutists landed near the II Bn of 352 Artillery Regt in the vicinity of Cardonville.

0207 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

No enemy contact yet on our sector.

0209 Hours Call of the Ia on the commander of 726 Gren Regt

How is the situation? No enemy on the sector of Bessin.

0213 Hours Ia of the Division reports to Ia of LXXXIV Army Corps

On the left wing of 914 Gren Regt sector an estimated strength of one battalion parachutists near Carentan canal southwest of Brevands. Individual parachutists, who evidently have missed their goal, are near Cardonville. Up to the time, on all other sectors quiet prevails.

0214 Hours  Report from the Naval Commandant of Normandy

Enemy sea targets located 11 km north of Grandcamp.

0215 Hours  Report by the Naval Comdt of Normandy transmitted to 552 Artillery Regt

0235 Hours Information from unit on right, 716 Inf Div

Parachutists near Amfreville, Breville, Gonneville, Herouvilette.

0246 Hours  Report from 352 Army Post Office

0235 Hours  hours two airplanes with troop-carrying gliders sighted, direction S-N.

0248 Hours  Report by 352 Army Post Office transmitted to 726, 914, 915 and 916 Gren Regts

0255 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

Approximately from eight to ten parachutists sighted near the IV Battalion of 352 Artillery Regt. Near Cardonville two parachutists with camouflage parachutes and in camouflage uniforms were taken prisoner. Apparently near Isigny landing of seventy paratroopers. Confirmation not yet on hand.

0310 Hours Order from LXXXIV Army Corps (transmitted by Ia)

Enemy parachute landing.on either side of the Vire outlet. In the meadows south of Carentan troop-carrying gliders landed approximately one company. Presumably they are going to advance to Carentan. 

0310 Hours 352 Inf Div keeps open the routes with 709 Inf Div on its left via Carentan and for this purpose moves the Task Force Meyer to Isigny-Carentan. The Task Force is assigned to the Corps reserve. The start of the movement is to be reported.

0315 Hours Ia order to Obstit Meyer, 915 Gren Regt

The whole of the Task Force to be made ready and moved forward over the bridge west of Nevilly into the area Montmartin-Deville. The march is to be made in several columns and small groups. Readiness to march and the roll-call is to be duly reported.

0320 Hours  OI LXXXIV Army Corps to the division (upon inquiry)

Order No 1200/44 g. Kdos (FHourser order) is to be released.

0322 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

Since 0320 Hours  hours IV Battalion of 352 Artillery Regt is covered by pattern bombing. Strong air formations with troop-carrying gliders flying to the south.

0325 Hours Ia of the Div to 914 Gren Regt

Instruction concerning the bringing up of the Task Force Meyer. Reconnoitring to be started against enemy troops landed in the depression south of Carentan.

0330 Hours  Report from 552 Artillery Regt

At present air attacks are being made on the IV Battalion of 352 Artillery Regt

0335 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Strongest bombing attacks on le Guay, Point du Hoc and Grandcamp.

0344 Hours  Report from the Naval Commandant of Normandy

One reinforced battalion of paratroops southwest of Brevands, here only a weak enemy detachment has landed. Bombing attacks are taking place continuously.

0350 Hours  Report from 915 Gren Regt

Task Force Meyer ready to march. Roll-call at 0415 Hours  hours.

0353 Hours Ia reports to the Chief of Staff LXXXIV Army Corps

Locating of sea targets has been disrupted at the time. March of the Task Force Meyer to commence at 0415 Hours  hours, one battalion to Carentan and two battalions in to the area around Montmartin.

0401 Hours  Report from the Aviation Report Center Cain

On the sector of our right 716 Inf Div approach flight of strong four-motored formations with troop-carrying gliders heading southwest to Houlgate- Cabourg. Jumpings of parachutists near Morsalines, St Come and St Mere-Eglise with the 709 Inf Div on the left.

Three prisoners captured, carrying maps of the Vire river mouth.

0407 Hours Information from unit on right, 716 Inf Div

Current reinforcements in the form of airborne gliders and parachute formations east of the Orne.

0408 Hours  Report form the Aviation Report Center Cain transmitted to 726 Gren Regt

0419 Hours Information from Ic LXXXIV Army Corps to the division

The situation at the Seine outlet is probably worse than with us, strong enemy parachute and airborne troops having landed there. Details are not yet known. At the time, enemy observes complete radio silence.

0420 Hours  Report from 915 Gren Regt

The Task Force Meyer (915 Gren Regt and Fusilier Battalion (Artillery Bn of 352 artillery Regt)) is marching off and its arrival can be expected to take place in three or four hours. On the sector of 726 Gren Regt artillery fire can be heard.

0430 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

Report on the start and progress of the attack launched by the II Battalion of 914 Gren Regt against parachute troops southwest of Brevands. Details are not yet known. Near Carentan canal the enemy is forcing his way from Le Moulin to the south.

0434 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

Landing craft have not yet been sighted ahead of Grandcamp.

0435 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

An American 1/Lt taken prisoner near St P. le Guay, testified, that along with the parachute troops also dummies are being dropped, which explode when contacting the ground.

0445 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Between 0400 Hours  and 0410 Hours  hours, the Widerstandsnester No 44, 47 and 48 were bombed heavily.

0502 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

Off Port en Bessin one big and four smaller naval units were sighted. Ahead of Grandcamp light naval units are reported.

0503 Hours  Report from Pz Jäger 352 Battalion

Single troop-carrying gliders were sightedin an altitude of 2000 Hours  m heading to the west.

0506 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Widerstandsnest, particularly nearArromanches, St Honorine and Colleville, in continuousair attacks, are covered with bombs of the heaviest caliber. Over Sully parachutists were observed, which probably were a crew jumped from an airplane shot down.

0510 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

The II Battalion of 914 Gren Regt brought in three American prisoners with aerial photos and maps of the Contentin peninsula, particularly of the area around the mouth of the river Vire. For the time being, the prisoners cannot be forwarded, as enemy parachute forces have blocked the way.

0515 Hours Ia exchanging information with Ia of the unit on the left, 709 Inf Div 

In Carentan itself there are no enemy troops, but north of Carentan stronger parachute forces have been dropped. St Mere-Eglise is held by enemy parachute troops.

0520 Hours  Report from 552 Artillery Regt

Advanced observers of the II and IV Battalions of the 552 Artillery Regt report to have ascertained noises which probably originate from naval units, at an approximate distance of two km, heading toward the Vire outlet. Furthermore, 29 ships, including four bigger type naval units (at least destroyer or cruiser class) are reported to be observed at a distance of from six to ten km heading toward le Guay-Port du Hoc.

Three or four aircraft have been shot down near Formigny, one pilot (a Pole) was taken prisoner. The numberof landing craft off Port en Bessin has increased to fifty.

0522 Hours  Report from the Naval Commandant of Normandy:

Our naval units were firing sea targets.  One enemy ship blew up.

Ta informed the Naval Commandant, that about fifty landing craft together with four bigger naval units, probably destroyers, were lying off Port en Bessin.

0525 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Ten km north of Port Bessin thirty ships have been observed proceeding slowly keeping course to the West. Marine Battery Longue presumes them to be gun boats or destroyers. 

0527 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

Off Port en Bessin four bigger naval units. Close by the coast line, our own small naval units were observed.

0532 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

In the Bay of Colleville-Vierville landing boats are nearing the beach. Farther on, bigger naval units have been sighted, keeping course to the West. A naval formation consisting of five Kriegsschiffe heading toward the East, small landing boats have taken course landwards. Apparently, the enemy enshrouds himself in a mantle of artificial fog.

0535 Hours Ia reports to the Chief of Staff of LXXXIV Army Corps

Transmission of the report delivered by 916 Gren Regt, in addition, five naval units have been observed further off from St Laurent, three of these units approaching the coast together with a larger number of landing craft. Up to this time twelve prisoners have been made.

0536 Hours Ia reports to the Commanding General, Gen Marcks

Report identical to that made to the Chief 

0537 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Between the Widerstandsnester No 56, 59, 60 and ahead of Asnelles numerous landing boats with their bow toward the coast are debarking. Naval units began to Geliver fire on the beaches from their broadsides.

0545 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

North of the Widerstandsnest No 88 twenty six landing boats, including bigger units, have been observed.

0550 Hours Ia of the Division reports to the Chief of Staff LXXXIV Army Corps

Report by the 726 Gren Regt on landing boats ahead of the Widerstandsnester No 56, 59, 60 and at Asnelles also about firing of the beaches by naval units. The Commander of the Division suggests halting the Task Force Meyer in view of the altered situation. The Commanding General agrees and orders the Task Force to be halted.

0552 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

Approximately from 60 to 80 fast landing boats are approaching the coast near Colleville. Our own artillery camot reach these boats. The region of Maisy is kept under fire from heavy naval artillery, likewise Marcouf. The naval units on the high sea are too far away for our own artillery.

0555 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Ahead of Vierville forty-five smaller and middle sized landing boats were observed, which opened fire on the coast. 

0556 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Reat

From ten to fifteen km north of the Widerstandsnest No 88 three big naval units were observed, which deliver fire to the region of Maisy.

0603 Hours Order transmitted by the divisional Ia to 352 Fusilier Btn

(it had switched into the telephone network)

Halt the Battalion, await further orders from the Commander of 915 Gren Regt. Fusilier Battalion located in the woods of Cerisy on the march road.

0604 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

By 0545 Hours  hours, altogether 140 ships were assembled in the Bay of Vierville. The coastal defenses are subjected to a heavy naval fire.

0615 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The Widerstandsnest No 60 is subjected to particularly heavy artillery fire. In the neighborhood of Widerstandsnest No 37 twenty smaller landing boats are approaching the beaches.

0617 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Div

Some of the naval units off the coast nearthe Widerstandsnest No 37 turn away to the West.

0620 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Div

In the Bay of Vierville tank landing craft have been clearly observed.

0625 Hours Ia of the Division informs Pz Jäger 352 Battalion of the appearance of the first tank landing craft in the Bay of Viervills.

0626 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

The coast between the Widerstandsnester No 59 and 60 is held under the heaviest artillery fire. Large naval formations lie far away on the high sea. By heavy bombing attacks on Battery emplacement 1716 some of the guns were buried by rubble, three of them have been set free again and emplaced anew. At the time the Artillery Regt maintains good connection with the observation posts.

0632 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Landing boats off.the coast between the Widerstandsnester No 59, 61 and 62 and ahead of Asnelles. The enemy is enshrouding sea targets in a mantle of artificial fog and placing a wall of fog before the coast. Up to this time the companiesof the Reserve Battalion have suffered only few casualties.

0637 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The first landing boats are debarking on the beaches ahead of the Widerstandsnester No 65 and 69, some of them are tank landing craft.

0637 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

The attack of the II Battalion 914 Gren Regt against parachute troops southwest of Brevands is making but slow progress in the terrain not easy to survey. Grandchamp is lying under enemy naval artillery fire.

0650 Hours Ia of LXXXIV Army Corps to the Division

According to the testimony of prisoners, one airborne division, landed in the Carentan area, has the mission to take the town Carentan.

Information by Ia of the Division to Ia of LXXXIV Army Corps about the newest reports received by the Division on the enemy (see above).

0657 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Div

Ahead of the Widerstandsnest 92 twenty landing boats are keeping course toward the coast.

0705 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Near the Widerstandsnest 68, east of Vierville enemy, in the strength of fifty men landed, weaker enemy forces also near Widerstandsnest No 62

0706 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Enemy near the Widerstandsnest No 60 northeast of Colleville landed forty men and one tank, Widerstandsnest No 60 engaged in a fire duel.

0708 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

The II Battalion 914 Gren Regt with altogether four companies is attacking the parachute forces. Against a tenacious resistance of the enemy, our attack can gain ground but slowly.

0720 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Landing of enemy forces on beaches in front of the Widerstandsnester No 60, 61 and 62 and further to the west. Between the Widerstandsnester No 61 and 62 enemy in the strength of one company is on the beach, which is under fire from our own artillery. At the Widerstandsnest No 61, the 88mm antitank gun was put out of action by a direct hit. In front of the Widerstandsnester No 37 and 37a on the right divisional boundary line, landing boats are approaching the coast, landing will begin presently. The Widerstandsnest No 37 lies under a heavy artillery and rocket fire.

0725 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

One company is attacking in front of the Widerstandsnester No 60 and 62. Near Widerstandsnest 61 further four enemy boats have landed, one boat was put to fire by a 50mm tank gun. The enemy has penetrated into the Widerstandsnest No 62, while No 61 is being attacked both from the beach and from the rear. Telephone connections to Port en Bessin and to the I Battalion 726 Gren Regt are disrupted. Inquiry of Ia to 726 Gren Regt: When and by whom a counterattack is carried out between the Widerstandsnester No 61 and 62 to throw back the enemy?

0730 Hours  Report from 552 Artillery Regt

At the time there is no connection to the observation points near Colleville. Landing boats between the Widerstandsnester No 61 and 62 were contended by cones of concentrated fire. From ten to fifteen smaller landing boats are entering the mouth of the river Vire.

0735 Hours Ia to the Chief of Staff of LXXXIV Army Corps

Near Arromanches on the right divisional boundary line enemy landing boats are approaching the coast; the landing is bound to begin immediately. Near the Widerstandsnester No 60 - 62 northeast of Colleville, enemy forces of from 100 to 200 men have penetrated our lines. In the Bay of Vierville, there are no enemy troops nearby, but a large number of landing boats are quickly approaching the coast. Requests one battalion to be assigned from the Task Force Meyer for a counterattack in the neighborhood of the Widerstandsnester No 60 - 62. The request was granted by the Corps.

0745 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

On the sector of our left neighboring 709 Inf Div, fifteen landing boats lay at the water's edge in the neighborhood of le Grand Vey.

0745 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Near the Widerstandsnest No 70, northeast of Vierville, three tanks are rolling up hill; three tanks penetrated into the Widerstandsnest No 66; the upper casemate of the Widerstandsnest No 62 was put out of action by a direct hit.

0750 Hours Commander of the Division to the Commander of 726 Gren Regt

One Battalion from the Task Force Meyer is moving to Colleville to launch a counterattack near the coastal Widerstandsnester No 60 - 62. Will arrive there within one and a half hour.

0755 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

Radio report from the I Battalion 352 Artillery Regt, saying that our situation at the Widerstandsnest No 60 is uncertain.

0757 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

On the sector of our right neighboring 716 Inf Div, between the Widerstandsnester No 35 and 36 thirty tanks have already been landed.

0801 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Near Widerstandsnest No 68 north of St Laurent four tanks, near Widerstandsnest No 66 three tanks, are already on the beach; at the Widerstandsnest No 65 the situation is still unsettled. The antitank train is committed.

0804 Hours Information from the right neighboring 716 Inf Div

The Orne bridge near Benouville is in enemy hands. Hast of the Orne our counterattack is being launched. The light 1716 Hours  Battery is out of action.

0805 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Weak enemy forces have penetrated into Point du Hoc. One platoon of 9/726 Gren Regt will be committed to launch a counterattack.

0810 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Situation at the Widerstandsnester No 61 and 62 unaltered, fighting is going on also at the Widerstandsnest No 52.

0812 Hours  Report by Ia to the Chief of Staff of LXXXIV Army Corps

Transmittance of the newest reports (see above). On the sector of our right neighboring 716 Inf Div about 35 tanks are heading via the Widerstandsnest No 55 and 56 toward Arromanches.

0819 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Enemy troops have landed near Widerstandsnest No 62. Details are still lacking. A battalion of the Task Force Meyer has been committed against the enemy landed north of Colleville. Some tanks have been landed north of Vierville. The enemy ahead of the Widerstandsnester No 66 and 68 is being attacked by our forces. Near Point du Hoc the enemy has climbed up the steep coast line (by means of rope-ladders falling from the shells), the strongpoint has started fighting.

0820 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

The battle against the parachute troops in the Brevands area waged by the II Battalion/914 Gren Regt has not yet come to an end.

0821 Hours Information from the right neighboring 716 Inf Div

The thirty tanks on our left wing have turned to the South and are heading to Meuvaines.

0822 Hours Radio report from 914 Gren Regt

Fifteen landing boats entering the mouth of the river Vire.

0825 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

The III Battalion/352 Artillery Regt reports: Of the tanks landed near the Widerstandsnest No 35 several (about six) have been put to fire or made immobile by antitank and land defense guns.

0830 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

On the sector of the 716 Inf Div, the Widerstandsnester No 35 and 36 have been over-run. The enemy infantry and thirty-five tanks are lying before Meuvaines. The right-hand Division is throwing the Eastern Battalion 642 to the hill east of Meuvaines. Widerstandsnest No 37 continues fighting. The antiaircraft gun of the Widerstandsnest No 40 has shot three or four tanks, besides two or three landing boats are burning.

0831 Hours Ia to 726 Gren Regt

I Battalion/916 Gren Regt has to prepare for an attack to the right in the direction to Meuvaines. Readiness to be reported.

0835 Hours Commanding General - Divisional Commander

Gen Kraiß reports:

Situation on the right wing near Meuvaines and Asnelles is difficult, Meuvaines is in enemy hands. Ahead of Asnelles our antiaircraft guns have shot six tanks. Gen Kraiß proposes to launch an attack by the Task Force Meyer (minus one battalion) reinforced by the bulk of the Pz Jäger 352 Battalion in order to throw back to the coast and into the sea the enemy infantry and tanks, penetrating our right wing. Portions of the Pz Jäger 352 Battalion are to be kept in readiness. General Marcks authorizes the commitment proposed.

0840 Hours Ia to 352 Artillery Regt

The connection with the observation points is to be established again latest before the tide is coming in again, as it may be presumed that the second wave of enemy forces will try to land then. An artillery liaison detachment of the III Battalion has to be held in readiness immediately with the object of supporting the attack of the Task Force Meyer.

0846 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

North of St Laurent, the Widerstandsnester No 65, 66, 67 and 70 have probably been taken by the enemy. Ahead of the Widerstandsnest No 68, strong enemy forces are landing from larger size boats an approximate strength of 150 men.

0855 Hours  Report from the telephone switching central

Telephone connections to the 916 Gren Regt are all disrupted for the time being.

0905 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The Widerstandsnest No 61, northeast of Collevilie, is in the hands of the enemy, Widerstandsnest No 62 is firing with but one machine gun, Widerstandsnest No 60 is still intact. Enemy forces are pushing forward between the Widerstandsnester61 and 62 to 63. Further stronger forces are being landed from fifty boats near the Widerstandsnest No 62. Reserves of the first and fourth companies are being brought up there. Near Widerstandsnest No 52 quiet prevails again. Widerstandsnest No 37 asks for reinforcements. Enemy infantry and tanks are heading to Meuvaines.

0912 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

Ahead of the Widerstandsnester No 92 and 99 numerous landing boats are entering the Carentan canal. Debarking has not yet begun. The V and VI Battalions/914 Gren Regt are engaged at the Carentan canal defending against enemy parachute troops.

0915 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Ahead of the Widerstandsnest No 65, northeast of St Laurent, sixty to seventy landing boats are debarking at present, No reports have been received from St P. Point du Hoc. Situation ahead of Grandcamp is unaltered. Widerstandsnester No 65 - 68 and 70 are occupied by the enemy. Further considerable debarkments near the Widerstandsnester No 65 and 66 have been ascertained.

0925 Hours The 726 Gren Regt reports

Three enemy tanks on the eastern wing of the Widerstandsnest No 38, reconnoitering has been started.

0930 Hours Ia to 916 Gren Regt

The self-propelling company of the Pz Jäger 352 Battalion subordinated to 916 Gren Regt, the company itself is still at Engreville.

The II Battalion/916 Gren Regt is to be committed to a counterattack against the Widerstandsnest No 65-69.

0935 Hours  Report from Ic to Ia

Enemy radio message intercepted, reading:

To all commanders of the units: Everything is going OK only a bit too late Alaska.

(Presumably a request for reinforcements or artillery fire.)

0945 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

On the sector of the right neighboring 709 Inf Div tanks are being landed between the Widerstandsnest No 3 and 5; the Division, having no connection with its superior commands, asks for support in the form of armor-piercing weapons.

0947 Hours Division to the Corps

Transmission of the request of the left neighboring regiment for support by antitank weapons against landed enemy tanks, as the regiment is no longer able to get connection to the 709 Inf Div.

0955 Hours Ia to Chief of Staff of LXXXIV Army Corps

Discussion and estimation of the general combat situation.

1000 Hours Ia to 352 Artillery Regt

Information pertaining to the enemy landed near the Widerstandsnester No 3 and 5 on the left neighboring sector. Commission: With ail available guns of the II Battalion to contend the enemy between the Widerstandsnester No 3 and 5 and to intercept his supply lines. Report from 352 Artillery Regt: The situation regarding ammunition with the heavy fourth Battery is very strained.

1012 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The Widerstandsnest No 60 is holding, 62 firing but with one machine gun, the situation there is critical; 61 taken by the enemy. Remnants of the first and fourth companies were committed to counterattack the Widerstandsnest No 61.

1020 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

Situation on the left neighboring sector between the Widerstandsnester No 3 and 5 is critical, bigger lending boats lying before the coast, a captive balloon being nearby.

1027 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

The enemy occupies the high bank of the steep coast line north of St Laurent. The divisional commander repeats his order of 0930 hours , that the II Battalion/914 Gren Regt reinforced by the self-propelled assault gun company, in a counterattack has to throw the enemy near St Laurent back into the sea.

1033 Hours  Ia informs the Naval Commander in Normandy about the general combat situation.

1058 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Three auxiliary craft in the harbor of Port en Bessin were sunk by direct hits of bombs.

1100 Hours  Radio message of the Division to the Task Force Meyer

When are you going to start? In what direction?

1101 Hours  Information from the right neighboring 716 Inf Div

Out in the bay of the mouth of the river Orne there are thirteen cruisers and a large number of landing boats. On either side of Vaux Chateau the enemy has succeeded in making a penetration.

1110 Hours  Report from the III Battalion/726 Gren Regt

The Widerstandsnester No 66 and 68 north of St Laurent - contrary to previous reports - are still firmly in our hands. On the other hand, the enemy with the strength of two companies has penetrated into St P. Point du Hoc. Reserves, which were available, have been committed against Point du Hoc with the object of restoring the previous situation. From Kriegsschiffe on the high sea the enemy is firing the steep coast line with special shells from which a rope ladder is falling out, with the help of which the steep slopes can be climbed. The occupational troops of the Widerstandsnest No 71 and 73 are very weak, the construction pioneer units have been brought up for reinforcement.

1112 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

Somewhat to the north of Point du Hoc — bigger naval units on the high sea, including troop transporters, and approximately from two to three hundred landing boats, have been observed.

1114 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

At 1110 hours  the I Battalion/916 Gren Regt started an attack against the enemy occupying the Hill 22, east of Asnelles. Allegedly, the enemy has taken Asnelles. The situation on the left wing is critical, as the enemy has already advanced up to the church in Colleville. The Widerstandsnester No 60 and 62 proceed defending themselves gallantly.

1132 Hours Information from the left neighboring 709 Inf Div

Further landings are effected along the whole front. The enemy has succeeded in making some breaks.

1138 Hours  Report from the Aviation Report Center Caen

At 1121 hours  fourteen larger sized naval units were sighted on the high sea ahead of Grandcamp.

1140 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The southwestern exit of Colleville has been taken by the enemy. Further tanks are being debarked ahead of the Widerstandsnest No 62. A great number of tanks are congested before the antitank ditch.

1142 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

The enemy is extending his landing place on the sector of our left neighboring 709 Inf Div spectacularly. On the sea there are at present twenty-two ships with barrage balloons.

1147 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

The I Battalion/914 Gren Regt has not yet contacted the enemy. In the Bay of the river Vire there is a strong enemy concentration with barrage balloons. The attack of the II Battalion/914 Gren Regt against the parachute troops in the Brevands area is progressing slowly.

1148 Hours Information from the left neighboring 709 Inf Div

(Inquiry of Ia)

There is no connection to Carentan. The situation on the sector of our left neighbor next but one, is perfectly quiet.

1155 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

The enemy has occupied the southwestern exit with one platoon. Further landings of tanks are taking place ahead of the Widerstandsnest No 62.

1205 Hours Ia to 914 Gren Regt

Concentrated cones of artillery fire are delivered by the II Battalion/352 Artillery Regt on the Widerstandsnester No 3 and 5 on the left neighboring sector, where the enemy is landing in companies. Widerstandsnest No 1 is encircled.

1220 Hours Information from the left neighboring 709 Inf Div

(Inquiry of Ia)

The penetration by enemy tanks extends already to a depth of four km. Ahead of the Defense Works No 3 and 5, there are twenty-two landing boats with barrage balloons. Counter-measures with antitank weapons from the North and from southeast are under way.

1225 Hours Ia reports to the Chief of Staff of LXXXIV Army Corps

New report on enemy activities is submitted, see report at 1220 hours . The occupational troops at St P. Point du Hoc are encircled by two enemy companies. A counterattack with portions of the III Battalion/726 Gren Regt has been launched. The Corps will have the Mobile Brigade 30 to be brought up and subordinated to the Division assuming probably the defense of the right wing.

1235 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Colleville has been reconquered from the enemy. The Widerstandsnester No 62 and 62b are in our hands, at the 61 there is still one enemy tank.

1317 Hours  Report from the right neighboring 716 Inf Div

Artillery reports forty tanks of the heaviest type as heading to Ryes.

1340 Hours  Report from the II Battalion/915 Gren Regt

On the left wing of the Battalion the enemy is infiltrating to the south between the Widerstandsnest No 62a and 62b, the wing is being extended to the south.

1345 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

Two companies from the II Battalion/914 Gren Regt have been committed for the defense at the Carentan canal, one company attacking the parachute troops from the Widerstandsnest No 100b to the south and the other one from Villadon.

1346 Hours Ia of the Division reports to the Ia of the Army the estimate of the general combat situation.

1358 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

The I Battalion reports, that Colleville has again been taken by the enemy. The tanks ahead of Asnelles have turned to the east, the bench-head there has grown to be very big already.

1400 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

The fifth company 916 Gren Regt started a counterattack against the enemy infiltrating between the Widerstandsnester No 62a, 62b and 64 and is going to join the attack carried on by the II Battalion/916 Gren Regt.

1405 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The attack of the I Battalion/916 Gren Regt on Meuvaines had to be turned to the direction of St Come, as eight tanks with mounted infantry were attacking the Widerstandsnester No 40a, 40b and 40c. The Widerstandsnest No 60 and 62, are in our hands, as heretofore.

1426 Hours  Report from the II Battalion/915 Gren Regt

Our attack came up against tenacious resistance offered by the enemy, resulting in heavy casualties. The Widerstandsnest No 62 is still holding, the Widerstandsnest 62b has no mortar ammunition any longer. The enemy, in the vicinity of the church and the chateau Colleville, is infiltrating to the south. A counterattack has been started.

Order of the Ia to the II Battalion/915 Gren Regt: The enemy at the Chateau must in any case be thrown back again. The Widerstandsnester 60 and 62 must remain firmly in our hands.

1434 Hours Information from the right neighboring 716 Inf Div

(Inquiry by Ia)

A considerable break has been made by the enemy troops near the mouth of the river Orne. Several Widerstandsnesterwest of the Oren are encircled. The troops landed have established contact with the parachute troops in the rear. Near Ryes forty tanks of the heaviest type are said to be moving to the southwest.

1455 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

The II Battalion/914 Gren Regt has been involved into heavy engagements in a hedge-row terrain in the Catz area. At 1445 hours  further one hundred paratroopers jumped north of the Widerstandsnest No 100. Up to this time, twenty-three prisoners have been brought in.

1550 Hours  Report from 915 Gren Regt (Task Force Meyer)

We have established contact with the I Battalion/915 Gren Regt, which is committed left of us. The general direction of the attack is Meuvaines-Asnelles. The assault guns have arrived at the Regiment. 

1600 Hours  Report from 915 Gren Regt 

The Task Force is going to attack from a line of departure with its right wing at Villiers-le Sector, left wing at Bazenville. Enemy tanks near Creully have pushed through to the south.

1602 Hours  Report from Ie of the Division to Ia

According to a radio message intercepted, the enemy forces in the Meuvaines area have to be estimated to one full division.

1610 Hours The break at St Laurent has been extended by the enemy, the Widerstandsnest No 71b and the village St Laurent are in enemy hands.

1612 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The Widerstandsnest No 39 has been taken by the enemy, Widerstandsnest 38 is encircled, even Widerstandsnest 40 is being attacked by six tanks and one intantry company. Furthermore, seven tanks are located ahead of the Widerstandsnest No 42 and several tanks in front of Widerstandsnest 44. Strong enemy landings are going on ahead of the Widerstandsnest No 62.

1617 Hours Ia of LXXXIV Army Corps to Ia of the Division

Our left neighboring 709 Inf Div has great anxiety about the increasing debarkments on the right wing.

1634 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Between the Widerstandsnester No 62 and 64 the enemy is removing staggered obstacles with tanks in order to prepare a broader passage for his tank forces.

1638 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Ryes is in enemy hands.

1650 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

The IV Battalion reports heavy debarkments of tanks and trucks, heading landwards, between the Widerstandsnester No 62 and 64.

1658 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

Further strong landings of tanks and trucks between the Widerstandsnester No 67 and 73.

1710 Hours  Report from II Battalion/915 Gren Regt

Battalion has been bypassed by the enemy in the rear, near Chateau Colleville he has broken through to the south. Wounded cannot be brought back any longer.

1721 Hours  Report from the IV Battalion/352 Artillery Regt

Further strong landings on the coast near Vireville.

1725 Hours  Report from 352 Artillery Regt

The II Battalion/915 Gren Regt is contained by the enemy.

1730 Hours  Report from 915 Gren Regt (Task Force Meyer)

At the time of our movement into the assembly position, the enemy infantry and tanks have taken Villiers le Sec and the hill south of it. In face of a superior enemy the Fusilier Battalion (on the right wing) has to withdraw to St Gabriel, as the assault guns could not come up against a superior number of heavy tanks. There is no longer any connection to the left I Battalion/915 Gren Regt near Bazenville. The commander, Obstlt Meyer presumably is seriously wounded and made prisoner.

1743 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The enemy has pushed forward from St Honorine to the south toward Russy.

1750 Hours Ia reports to the Chief of Staff of LXXXIV Army Corps on the whole of the combat situation.

1750 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

The enemy, who is continuously receiving reinforcements, has penetrated into Vierville, Asnieres and Louvieres.

The Commander of the Division from the command post of 726 Gren Regt to Ia

General information about the situation on the right wing. Southwestern edge of Ryes has been occupied by a fortress Pi-company. The I Battalion/916 Gren Regt is to establish contact to the left, connection to the battalion, however, has been disrupted for hours.

1800 Hours Chief of Staff of LXXXIV Army Corps to the Ia of the Division

On the sector of the right neighboring 716 Inf Div, the enemy has made a particularly deep penetration. The Mobile Brigade 30, subordinate to the 352 Inf Div, because of lack of heavy infantry weapons, can only be used for sealing purposes.

1825 Hours Ia of the Division toe 352 Pi Battalion

Together with the Landes Bau Battalion 17 the Pi Battalion 17 is to reach the St Laurent area via the command post of 916 Gren Regt.

1825 Hours The Commander of the Division from the command post of 916 Gren Regt to Ia

The I Battalion/914 Gren Regt has the order to clear up the situation at the strongpoint Point du Hoc by a counterattack. A counterattack from the east with detachments from the strongpoint le Guy has also been started.

1826 Hours  The Division to the 352 Field Repl Battalion

The Field Repl Battalion and portions of the March Battalion which have already arrived, have to reach the region south of Mosles.

1828 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Enemy tanks are forcing their way from Sommervieux to Magny. In order to stave off this thrust, six or seven assault guns are being brought up to the Regiment.

1840 Hours  The Division to 32 Anti-aircraft Regt

One heavy battery on either side east and west of Bayeux is to be committed for the defense of the town against enemy tanks.

1935 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Fifteen larger transporters and thirty smaller craft at a distance of ten km from the coast, headed to southeast, have been observed. Enemy in Vierville has been reinforced by one company.

1940 Hours  Ia of the Division to the Commander of the Division at the command post of 916 Gren Regt

Information concerning the Task Force Meyer. Assault guns have been moved from St Gabriel to the west in order to ward off enemy tanks ahead of Bayeux.

Divisional Commander to Ia

The defensive line on the sector of 916 Gren Regt extends from the eastern suburbs of Colleville over 69b, 69 to 71b. Beginning with the Widerstandsnest No 74 to the west everything is in order. The enemy at St P. Point du Hoc is contained from east and south by the Ninth company 726 Gren Regt.

1945 Hours  Report from 916 Gren Regt

Parachute troops landing near St P. le Guay.

2040 Hours Ia of the Division reports to Chief of Staff of the Corps on the combat situation

2059 Hours  Report from 914 Gren Regt

Fifty troop-carrying gliders have landed west of the Carentan canal.

2100 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

The I Battalion/915 Gren Regt reported by radio that it has been pocketed in the neighborhood of Bacénville and that it has taken prisoner a British Generel.

2107 Hours  Ia of the Division reports again to Chief of Staff of the Corps on the combat situation

2112 Hours  Report from 726 Gren Regt

Ahead of Port en Bessin fifteen large and thirty small landing boats have been ascertained.

2135 Hours  Report to the Division from 352 Fusilier Battalion

Enemy infantry and tanks have taken St Gabriel, remnants of the Battalion are retreating to Brecy.

2142 Hours  Ia of the Division to Chief of Staff of the Corps

By prisoner's statement the 50 British Inf Div has been ascertained near Sommervieux. The fifteen large and thirty small transporters reported as being at sea are heading course Port en Bessin. The battleships have already proceeded broadside. The landing of further strong enemy forces is imminent.

2210 Hours  Ia of the Division to Chief of Staff of the Corps

One battalion of the Mobile Brigade 30 in the middle sector is to be subordinated to the 916 Gren Regt, as the situation near Grandcamp is uncertain. The parachutists there have joined with the terrorists (French Underground Movement).

2233 Hours  Ia of the Division to 726 Gren Regt

The Battalions 517 and 518 of the Mobile Brigade 30 are being brought up and subordinated to the Regiment. New defense line has to be built up in the line Brecy--Esquay--Sommervieux--Pouhgny--Tracy.

2255 Hours  Report from 352 Fusilier Battalion

The strength of the Battalion is but forty men, plus additional fifty men from the I Battalion/915 Gren Regt, furthermore, there are six assault guns intact. In face of a strong enemy pressure, the Task Force has withdrawn toward Ducy.

2307 Hours  Ia of the Division to 726 Gren Regt

Portions of the Bau Pioneer Battalion 94 (360 officers and men) will be subordinated to the Regiment.

2320 Hours  Divisional Commander, Gen Kraiß to the Commanding General, Gen Marcks

Tomorrow the Division will be able, with all available forces, to offer the same kind of hard resistance to the supreme enemy, as it was the case today. Because of the heavy casualties, however, new forces have to be brought up the day after tomorrow. The losses of men and material in the islands of resistance are total. By the heaviest kind of bombing and cones of concentrated fire from naval artillery, greater number of the guns built in at field strength were buried under rubble and had later to be set free again. The occupational troops in the Widerstandsnest have fought gallantly. The Widerstandsnest No 74 – 91 despite the losses they have suffered are still in full readiness to defend themselves. At the time, the 352 Pioneer Battalion, together with the Seventh Company 916 Gren Regt, is attacking from Formigny the Widerstandsnester No 68 - 70. The Sixth company 916 Gren Regt regained the Widerstandsnest No 65a, but was then entirely covered by heavy enemy naval artillery fire. The II Battalion/915 Gren Regt, in an energetic attack captured the defense work north of Colleville, but is now encircled near Colleville and is clamoring after ammunition. The Widerstandsnester No 37 and 38 have been fighting gallantly and have shot altogether six tanks. On the left wing the counterattack by the I Battalion/914 Gren Regt against the St P. Point du Hoc is still progressing. The Field Replacement Battalion and the March Battalion have been moved forward in order to defend Formigny and St Laurent against an enemy heading to the south. No news has been received from the III Battalion/352 artillery Regt southeast of Ryes. Almost all of the radio stations of advanced observation posts have been put out of action.

Commanding General Marcks to the Divisional Commander, Gen Kraiß

All reserves available to me, have already been moved up. Every inch of the ground has to be defended to the utmost capacity, until new reinforcements will be brought up.

2400 Hours Ic of the Division to Ia

By prisoner's statement, the following enemy divisions have been ascertained up to the present:

1 Inf Div (US)

29 Inf Div (US)

50 Inf Div (Br)

79 Armd Div (Br)

101 Abn Div (US)

===== Return to the 352.Inf-Div. on D-Day =====