On of Phil’s men wrote, “We went into division reserve and pulled back between the cities of Metz and Nancy … We were given new clothes and a chance to take real showers. After being in the same uniform for three months and having to use our helmets as washbasins, this was a real luxury. We even ate some hot meals. I almost felt human after six months in hell. We also received our back mail.[1]

Commencing on February 16, elements of the 4th Regiment Tirailleurs Marocain of the 2nd Division Infanterie Motorisé reconnoitered 7th and 30th Infantry positions, preparatory to relief of the entire 3rd Infantry Division.

“You’re going back so far you’ll be able to eat ice cream,” a happy General Devers had promised the Division at the finish of the attack, and the 3rd Infantry Division was ready to take the Sixty Army Commander at his word.

The relieve commenced on February 17 and at 1800, February 18 control of the sector passed from the Commanding General, 3rd Infantry Division, to the Commanding General of the 2nd DIM.

The 3rd Infantry assembled and made preparations to move to prearranged areas in Lorraine near Nancy, after 188 days of continuous contact with the enemy.[2]

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Six months after the Southern France invasion, on Feb. 18, after 188 days of constant contact with the enemy, the 3rd Infantry’s last troops were pulled out of Neuf-Brisach to a quiet area at Pont-à-Mousson, halfway between Nancy and Metz.

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[1] Soskil, 78-9.

[2] Taggart, 327.

[3] 3rd Division History.

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