During the period of 20 February to 13 March 1945 the 30th Infantry Regiment enjoyed a hard-earned 20-day rest.[1]

Official status of the 3d Division was now SHAEF (Supreme Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Force) reserve. Reinforcements were assigned to each Regiment.

Following the rest came training, highlighting street fighting, attack of a fortified position, tank and infantry training, physical hardening and officer and NCO school.

Side by side with this training the Regiment enjoyed recreation on a scale not equaled since Pozzouli, six months before.

Pass trucks made regular runs to Nancy, which was virtually untouched by shelling or bombing. Company dances were held, with beaucoup des mademoiselles available to beautify the atmosphere.[1]

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After being in the lines for over six months, some of the GI’s were ready to blow off a little steam.

(One Pfc.) explained: “One night in Nancy, the Regiment was putting on a dance for officers only. I really wanted to go, but my rank forbade it. Luckily, one of my good friends, (a lieutenant), let me wear his jacket, complete with 2nd Lieutenant bars.

After I got inside, I had several drinks and danced with all the French girls. I even tapped (a Colonel) for his lady partner. I had such a good time.

Later in the evening, an officer from 1st Battalion Headquarters recognized me and told me I didn’t belong there. We got into a big argument, and I took a swing at him, knocking him down the stairway leading up to the ballroom.

The next day, (the Major) called me in. I lost a stripe for the incident.[2]

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At the end of the first week in March a Regimental ceremony was held in a beautiful meadow overlooking Nancy. A record number of almost 250 awards were presented by General O’Daniel.[1]

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[1] Prohme, 326-327.

[2] Champagne, 134-135.

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