Throughout the period 11 to 21 October, Dad and the men of the 30th Infantry Regiment maintained the positions they have gained at such a terrific cost from 29 September to 10 October. Excellent Ops were established, but the battles only intensified.[1]

Every target in and around the vicinity of Le Tholy, and the gap to Gerardmer, as well as the northern entrance to the St. Ame-Le Tholy valley was covered by artillery, Cannon Company, chemical mortar, and caliber .50 machine-gun fire.

Brig. Gen. Robert N. Young, assistant division commander, visited the forward OP overlooking Le Tholy, and personally commended the man for their hard-won victory.

The 30th maintained its Regimental CP in Eloyes throughout this period. (Best I can figure, about 7 miles from Le Tholy.)

From 11-21 October, patrols were operated continuously during the hours of darkness, both by the Regimental I&R Platoon, Regimental Raiders, and all line companies, increasing in intensity during the latter part of the period as part of the cover plan for the 3rd Infantry Division’s concentration for participation in the (coming) attack toward St. Die.

Many targets were located by these patrols, which were later fired on by Cannon Company … and battalion mortars.

At all times enemy mortar and artillery fire was heavy on the battalion positions, inflicting daily casualties, some companies being reduced to sixty men “trench strength.”

The 30th completed preparations and outlined a program for a … proposed seven-day rest and training period, which, however, the entire regiment was not to enjoy until 12 November, nearly a month later.[1]

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[1] Prohme, 259-261.

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