One Soldier's Story
Part Three
By Kernel Banks, Staff Writer

The Break Of The March

Here we are at St. Lo, France, having fought our way successfully to victory, taking a short breather and reflecting back on the past weeks. The 459 AA had left the ports of Bristol, England in a Sea Force Convoy. Arriving at Omaha Beach, fighting continuously for ten days.

Recalling the forces, 35 Battalions of Anti-Aircraft, 30 Battalions of Heavy Guns, several battalions of support and eight divisions of armor.

Then we had the Army Air-Corp supporting us from the air. The vast numbers of American Fighting Forces were bombarded day and night until we broke St. Lo, France.

When we reached the city of St. Lo, one enemy forward observer had taken his toll on our forces by radio, calling in coordinates so the enemy could shell us with mortars, 88s and bombs.

Although I have mentioned larger battles, many smaller scale battles were fought on our way to St Lo.

Since we have broke the lines here, by the direction of General Bradley, The Armor Divisions started coming in.

General Eisenhower's Army had all made it to St. Lo. Eisenhower gave new orders that the 19th Division was to travel West of the Vire, traveling Northwest to Belgium. The 459AA, along with the 1st Army, was to continue on to Normandy to regroup with the 29th Division. A different type of warfare is starting to come into view.

Click here for "Soldier's Story, Part Four