HEADQUARTERS 331ST MEDICAL BATTALION

A. P. O. #443, U S Army

5 February 1945

331st Medical Unit
UNIT HISTORY

During the month of January 1945, the Medical Battalion was supporting combat for 13 days, and rested, grouped, and re-equipped for 18 days. The morale continued high, as evidence (in part) by no AWOL's and no Venereal Disease.

Jan 1-5: Battalion in reorganization area, with "A" and "C" companies vic HOTY [Hody], BELGIUM, "D" Company and Battalion Headquarters vic ESNEUX, BELGIUM. The Battalion strength was 32 Officers, 2 WO and 318 Enlisted Men.  All activities were concentrated on re-equipping and regrouping the Battalion. Numerous promotions were made, and Capt. Jack H. Kamholz was reassigned to "D" Company, while Lt Monroe Neuman was assigned to "B" Company. With a general idea that the Division was to be recommitted, reconnaissance was carried out in SPA and south to TROIS PONTS for routes and billets and station sites.

The sector into which the contemplated move is to be made, is now held by a unit of the 28th Inf Div, CT 112, which is attached to the 30th Inf Div at this time. Pvt Kenneth Vandegrift and Pvt Paul F McDaniel who had been declared MIA returned to the Battalion. They had left the Div Clr Sta at ST VITH with a load of patients for an Evacuation Hospital at MALMEDY. Nothing further was heard from them, and in as much as hostile action occurred along the route they were presumed to be MIA. They did reach MALMEDY, and were pressed into service to assist in moving the hospital, this being necessary because of the approach of the Germans. After leaving the hospital, the two men traveled south in an attempt to rejoin the Battalion, and were directed to various places until they reached the 3rd Replacement Depot whence they were told the new location of the Battalion.

Jan 6:    With the 424 Inf Regt at LA REID, "C" Collecting Company moved to FERME BERIZENNE [Berinsenne], 4 Miles south of SPA. The Clearing Station and Battalion Headquarters remain at ESNEUX, and evacuation from 424 CT will be to ESNEUX. Emergency cases, however will be taken to the 30th Div Clr Sta at SPA. On this date, Brigadier General Perrin, Div Comdr., came to the Cir Sta and in a formal ceremony presented the order of the Purple Heart to the following Officer and Enlisted Men:

1ST LT VINCENT P. WANDERMAN
M/SGT JOHN J. ADELMAN
PFC WILLIAM R DAUGHERTY
TEC 5 GEORGE MANSFIELD
PFC VERNON PFIFFNER
SGT KENNETH FINLAYSON

Jan 7:    CT 424 was alerted for a move forward, and so Company "C"
reconnoitered an area, finding SANAT DE BOURGOMONT in the vic of COUR [Coo]suitable. At the Clearing Station, intense excitement prevailed in the evening when planes circled low and the guards on duty reported what they thought to be sounds made by parachutists. Captain Rinek & LaManche with a detail of EM went out and searched the area, finding lights signaling in the "Vicinity". G-2, Provost Marshal were notified,

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and Maj Moulds arrived, saw that the situation was under control, had a cup at coffee and went to bed.  The 820th TD also notified when Capt LaManche drove down to ESNEUX. Sequel: One old parachuted dummy was found, no traces in the snow of any recent footprints and the "signal lights" were found to be made by an Ordnance outfit on a nearby hill. Thus far this month the census in the Clr Sta averaged about 50 cases per day.

Jan 8: Sixteen men from "A" Company, 1 man from "D" Company were placed on DS with 424th Med Det to reinforce the depleted detachment. The men were brought to the Regt Aid Station and sent from there to various positions with the 424 Infantry, CT 424 replaced CT 112, and was atchd to the 30th Inf Div. All casualties were evacuated to the 30th Inf Div Clr Sta at SPA. Daily visits were made to "C" Company by a member of Battalion Headquarters.

Jan 9: CT 424 atkd at 1000 with the 1st and 2d Bn abreast, 3rd in reserve.  Casualties were light at this time. The Clr Sta was prepared to move, with Lt Wanderman's selection, the vic of SPA, at NIVEZE.

Jan    l0:  This was moving day - "A" Company moved to FANGE-MARON, to as a holding station for foot and respiratory cases from the Clr Sta. 29 cases were sent there. "C" Company operate SANAT DE BOURGOMONT and casualties were light. "D" Company moved the 1st platoon to NIVEZE, arriving at l530, 28 cases left ESNEUX at l530 for the station at NIVEZE. These were cases who could be returned  to duty in a few days. Bn Hq moved with "D" Company.

Despite bad roads, the move was accomplished without incident. "C" Company had its Collecting Station favorably situated, but further back from the aid stations than usual. Thorough reconnaissance with a member of the Med Bn of the 30th Div resulted in an order to stay at COUR [Coo], but an ARP was set up in the vic at COO. Preparations were made for A Company to move to FERME BERRIZINE [Berinsenne], "C" Company to TROIS PONTS and D Company to COUR [Coo].  "A" Company was obliged to leave their area being outranked by Hq 82d A/B Div.

Jan 11:    The Division regrouped as follows: At l200 RCT 424 & 112 reverted to Div control. (106), at 2400 RCT 112 reverted to 28th Div control and two Bns. of the 517th Prcht Inf Regt were atchd to the Division. The Division was ordered then, to continue the present mission of defense.

The 2d platoon of "D" Company left ESNEUX at 0930, and closed at NIVEZE at 1130. "C" Company received few casualties and planned to move to TROIS PONTS. Present positions were considered adequate because of good road net and light casualties, and that weather conditions made treatment of patients in warm building desirable.

Lt Neumann was placed on DS with Forward Echelon of DHQ as Medical Officer, there being no regularly assigned Medical Officer at that installation by the T/O.

For information on the tactical situation see attached overlay.

Jan 12: The Division received other atchmts - elements of the 740 Tk Bn, 643 TD Bn, 634 AAA Bn, 596 Engr Bn, and 460 PFA Bn. Light patrol action continued, with casualties light, only 3 wounded being treated.

Jan 13: The 106th Inf Div jumped off at 0600 in an attack, and with intelligence that resistance would be light, and progress rapid, all

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units of the Battalion were prepared to move up. Arrangements were made by the Bn CO to assist the 517th. The surgeon of the 517 declined to use "A" Company as a collecting station, and instead operated his Regt aid Sta vic STAVELOT, as a collecting Station.  A Company operated an ARP at FRANCORCHAMPS with enlisted personnel, 1 officer, 2 ambulances, and a #2 Chest. "C" Company moved up to TROIS PONTS at 0830 and the Clr Sta at 1300 moved to COUR.

The remainder of "D" Company moved from NIVEZE at 1600, and the patients left at NIVEZE (about 40) were taken over by "A" Company, which began to operate the holding station. When the Clr Sta opened at COUR [Coo], the ARP at FRANCORCHAMPS moved to STAVELOT. "C" Company operated an ARP at AISIMONT. On this date from 1400 to 2400 "C" Company handled 140 battle casualties, and "D" Co handled 186 cases, transferring 107 to the rear.

Evacuation from the front was complicated by heavy snow, icy roads, and narrow roads. But except for the ditching of an army ambulance during blackout driving, the evacuation of patients was uneventful. Most cases were due to artillery and mortar fire, and mines with really serious cases coming thru. Several chest wounds were handled, and one case had a severe nicking wound of the chest, FC of the femur, and probable involvement of the spinal cord.

The road between the "C" Company ARP at AISIMONT and WANNE was under constant observed enemy artillery fire, but since it was the only road usable ambulances ran the gauntlet of fire. Three ambulances were hit by shrapnel, and one patient with a wound of a finger, riding in the ambulance was struck in the leg. First aid was given to him by the ambulance orderly.

At the end of the day the Clearing Station census was 68.

Two new MAC officers joined the Battalion, Lt Scott and Lt Garcia.  Both were assigned to "B" Company and placed on DS with "C" Company for "seasoning."

Altho every unit in the battalion moved today, and a large number of casualties were processed, and evacuation was slow and difficult, the medical service rendered was of the highest order and worked uninterruptedly. The men of "C" Company worked gallantly and in one instance Sgt Magory and Tec 5 Ristenpart ran forward of the aid station to get out 11 severely wounded soldiers. Three litter squads under Lt Penney also worked forward of the 3rd Bn Aid Station evacuating casualties. PFC Beach of "A" Company was lightly wounded by shrapnel while on DS with the 424 Med Det. Two ambulances from "A" Company were atchd to "C" company this date.

Jan 14:  The attack continued at 0900, and again casualties were heavy, mostly from shrapnel, Mortar and Mines. 100 casualties were processed by "C" Company, and the Clr Sta treated 180 cases, of which 61 were transferred.

Large numbers of cases of frost bite were seen with no swelling, but considerable discoloration and paresthesias was seen. The more severe were evacuated, but the remainder held either at COUR [Coo], or NIVEZE.

Jan 15-16:  The attack continued. "D" Company received 249 patients on the 15th and 268 on the 16th. Most casualties were still due to frost bite.

Ambulance Relay Points were used and good ambulance service maintained.

Moving of the Clr Sta was discussed but due to poor housing conditions, at STAVELOT, and adequacy of ambulance evacuation, the move was not made. Sleds were utilized to haul litters back to the aid station, being furnished and made by "C" Company. The 3rd Bn of CT 424 was attached  to the 517th Regt at 1200.

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Jan 17:   At 1800, the 517th Inf Regt was attached to the 30th Inf Div., and at that time the 3rd Bn reverted to 424 control. At 1600 the 424 CT was pinched off by the advance of the 75th Inf Div to the east, and the 30th Inf Div to the south. The mission of CT 424 then was to mop up in the areas it had taken. During the action from the 12th through the 17th, the Division took every objective assgnd, and on time.  The difficult maneuver in the pinching out of a CT was achieved. 1172 cases were handled by the Clearing Station during the attack.

Jan 18: The Division was placed XVIII Corps reserve, for the purpose of regrouping and re-equipping. The strength of the 424 Inf was 54% Enlisted, and 62% officer personnel. A meeting was held by the Bn Commander with the Company Commanders to discuss re-supply. The main shortages were lamps, and stoves, which S-4 promptly corrected. The 1st Bn 424 moved to HENOMONT, and ARP with two ambulances was set up at WANNE. An ambulance was left with each Bn aid Station. The ARP at STAVELOT was closed. "D" Company held 162 patients at this time, with 81 of this number at COUR [Coo]. Most of the cases being received were frost bite, with a few respiratory cases. Very few exhaustion and self-inflicted wounds were seen. Lt Neumann was evacuated with a severely sprained knee.

Jan 19-23: Remained in Corps reserve. The Clearing Station operated bathing service for the Division, furnishing towels, soap, and alleged hot water.

The troops really needed the service. Medical inspection was done at the baths, and one case of pediculosis pubis found.  Work was concentrated on vehicles and supply. Recreation was made available by the Bn SSO (movies, bands, singers). On 21 January at 1530 at TROIS PONTS, General Perrin, in a formal ceremony presented Bronze Star Medals to the following personnel:

CPT ARTHUR FLEMING
1ST LT DAVID MILLMAN
PFC RAYMOND BACHMAN
PYT ARLEY CORNETT
TEC 5 PAUL DEAKINGS
PFC THOMAS ELDER
PFC FREDERICK FLEISCHMAN, JR
PFC TALMON GAINOUS
PFC JOSEPH GELINAS
PFC JOHN B. G. HAMMOCK
PFC WILLIAM IRVING
PVT HARVEY KOLB
TEC 4 QUENTIN LEASURE
PFC BENEDICT LEITI
SGT JOHN AGORY
PFC RALPH MONTGOMERY
PVT PHILIP PATIRE
S/SGT RICHARD REINHARDT
TEC 5 ELDEN RISTENPART
PFC CARL STEINMEYER
PVT RAYMOND SZYCZEWSKI
PFC FERGUSON WILSON

Jan 23:  CT 424 atchd to 7th Armd Div which today took ST VITH. "C" Company moved to an assembly area in the vic of DEIDENBERG, and set up a station at WAIMES.

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Jan 24: CT 424 committed again, with. "C" Company at ODENVAL [ONDENVAL], the remainder of "C" Company was all closed in by 1400. Preparations were made for an attack the following day, and as usual, litter squads were atchd to 424 Med Det. The 7th Armd Div Clr Sta at WAIMES was utilized, and casualties were light.  The 106th Inf Div (CT 424 & 592d FA Bn) moved back to the vic of ANTHISNES. The 1st platoon left COUR [Coo] at 0930, and opened a Clr Sta at the same place in ESNEUX which had been occupied before.

Jan 25: CT 424 continued to attack. Pvt Harold D. Smith of "A" Company on DS with the 424 Med Det was killed while working as an aid man by a sniper who was promptly dispatched by the men of the company with which he was working.

This constitutes a violation of the Geneva Convention. At this time the Bn CO and the Regt CO of the 424 had all been evacuated. Casualties were light.

Jan 28: CT 424 was passed thru by the 82d A/B Div and moved back to join the 106th Div, "C" Company moved to ESNEUX, closing in their area at 2330.

General Perrin presented Lt Reinhardt with battlefield commission as a 2d Lieutenant. Tec 4 Pawasarat and Pfc Buckley, Tec 5 King were given the Bronze Star Medal at the same ceremony.  Unfortunately Tec 5 Balantyne and Pfc Balarzs who were to have been present and receive the Bronze Star Medal were unable to attend the ceremony.

Jan 29-31: Battalion rested, regrouped and refitted. All men were reld from DS with the 424th Med Det.

During the month "D" Company gave 3835 Treatments, had 1145 Admissions, of which 584 were BC [battle casualties] and 561 NBC [non-battle casualties].

Plans were drawn up for reconstituting "B" Company.

12 Dec 44:  The 106th Infantry Division relieved the 2nd Infantry Division at 0001 covering a 27 mile front in the SCHNEE EIFEL.  Task Force “X” was attached to the Division and was in position on the left flank.  On the left flank of the Division was the 99th Infantry Division, and on the right flank was the 28th Infantry Division. The Division placed all three regiments on the line as well as Task Force “X”, from North to South being disposed as follows: Task Force “X”, 233d [422d] Infantry Regiment, 423d Infantry Regiment, and 424th Infantry Regiment.  The 2d Battalion of the 423d Infantry Regiment was placed in Division Reserve. All regiments were dug in with patrol action being light when the Division replaced the 2d Infantry Division.

The Medical Battalion opened its Battalion Headquarters and Clearing Station in St. Vith, Belgium.  The Collecting Companies were disposed as follows: Company “A” at ANDLER, BELGIUM; Company “B” at BUCHET, GERMANY; Collecting Company “C” at STEINBRUCK [STEINBRÜCK], GERMANY.

In addition to the three collecting companies, aid stations consisting of collecting company technicians with an AMBULANCE LOADING POST and one ambulance were established by Company “A” at MANDERFELD, BELGIUM for the 14th Cavalry Group of Task Force “X”, and at WINTERSCHEID, GERMANY by Company “B” for the 18th Cavalry Group.

Attached to the 106th Infantry Division were the 14th and 18th  Cavalry Squadrons of the 32d Cavalry Group, the 634th AAA Battalion, the 820th TD Battalion, the 740th Field Artillery Battalion and the 275th Armored Field Artillery Battalion.

The 581st Medical Collecting Company provided army evacuation for the Clearing Station to the 67th Evacuation Hospital and the 44th Evacuation Hospital, the 4th Convalescent Hospital, and the 618th Clearing Station.  The Third Hospital Unit of the 42d Field Hospital was at Saint Vith, Belgium for the handling of Non-transportable cases.

13-15 Dec 44: Activity was light in our sector and casualties were light also.  On 15 December, a prisoner of war processed through medical channels, was taken to “A” Collecting Company for treatment, and gave the information that a German offensive was to begin on the 17 December.  This information was relayed to the Battalion S-2, and relayed to the Division.

On this date 151 cases were treated at the Clearing Station, of which a considerable number were trench foot cases.  Most of these men had bean an duty outside, exposed to extreme damp and cold weather for long periods of time.

16 Dec 44:  The enemy opened its battle of the Ardennes Bulge with a tremendous artillery barrage at dawn. Heavy artillery landed in the vicinity of St. Vith, and medium and light artillery fell in the region of the three Battalion collecting Companies. In the Task Force “X” and 422d Infantry Regiment sector the enemy poured tanks and panzer units from the north and West in a push to take, SCHONBERG [SCHÖNBERG], a vital road junction on the road to St. Vith.

In the 423d Infantry Regiment sector, the enemy which had patrols stationed in the vicinity of BRANDSCHEID, sent Tiger tanks and panzer units toward SCHONBERG [SCHÖNBERG], evidently using the BLEIALF-SCHONBERG [SCHÖNBERG] road, commonly called [by] the Division Troops “Sky-Line Drive”.
 

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In the 424th Regiment sector the enemy pushed up through HABSCHEID toward WINTERSPELT to gain control of the highway from WINTERSPELT TO ST. VITH.

The main objective of the German drive was the town of ST. VITH, a vital communications cog in the motorized warfare which was being employed by the Germans with their tanks and panzer units.

The first town to fall to the Germans was AUW, GERMANY, a small community situated on a hill overlooking the road to SCHONBERG [SCHÖNBERG].  In the southern sector of the Division front, HABSCHEID and HECKHUSCHEID fell. In an effort to stem the Nazi push, the Division committed its reserve, the Second Battalion of the 423d Infantry Regiment, which moved from BORN to the 422d in the fight for SCHONBERG [SCHÖNBERG].  The 424th Regiment committed its reserve, the First Battalion which was located at STEINBRUCK [STEINBRÜCK] in the hope of stopping the enemy in the WINTERSPELT

Collecting Company “A”, located at ANDLER fell back to HEUEM, BELGIUM when the Germans captured AUW, and continued to provide medical support for its combat team and Task Force “X” until the enemy surrounded the 422th Combat Team. The ambulance assigned to the 1st Battalion, 422th Infantry, having carried casualties  to the Collecting Station during the night, was prevented from returning to the Battalion Aid Station by an enemy patrol which had infiltrated through the night cutting the road.

Pfc Andrew Gollin and Pvt Thomas Fox were driving an ambulance carrying casualties from the 2d Battalion Aid Station, when stopped and taken prisoner by the same patrol that prevented the other ambulance from returning to the 1st Battalion Aid Station. This was one half miles east of AUW, GERMANY. Gollin and Fox were later released after the Germans had loaded several other casualties in their ambulance.

Collecting Company “B” remained with the 423th Combat Team and was out off with the regiment in the vicinity of BUCHET.

Collecting Company “C” remained at its position at STEINBRUCK [STEINBRÜCK], but was mobile and was prepared to move to a site northward at BREITFELD.

The last word the Battalion heard from Company “B” was a message signed for Sergeant Murphy. It read:  

    “Casualties being received from Anti-tank and Service Companies. Enemy using 88's, mortars and small arms. Casualties show a slight increase over previous days. Situation remaining  the same as reported on previous messages.”

NOTE: See attached sketch for disposition of troops on this date, and attached German order for the attack.

17 Dec 44:   The attack continued, with the Germans exerting pressure on the left and right flanks. The 422d and 423d Combat Teams were completely surrounded and remained as islands of resistance. “A” Company was unable to reestablish communications with CT 422 despite repeated efforts. “B” Company was cut off with its Combat Team. Evacuation from the 422d Combat Team and the 423d Combat Team was to “B” Company, which was last seen still operating at the site it occupied the previous day.   Elements of the 9th and 7th Armored Divisions were moving East to smash the German attack.

The mission of the 106th Infantry Division was to defend in place until the Armored Divisions set up defenses. “C” Company withdrew to BREITFELD, BELGIUM. The Clearing Station displaced to VIELSALM on DIVISION order, and at 1430 set up a station at a Catholic Boarding School. The First platoon of the Clearing Company departed from St. Vith at 1630, but due to heavy traffic on the ST VITH-VIELSALM road, they did not arrive at VIELSALM until 180615. On this date, “D” Company processed 130 cases of which 64 were battle casualties. The 66 non battle casualties were made up of foot cases, nasopharyngitis infections, and exhaustion. The Army evacuation was still functioning, but Battalion Headquarters supplemented it with ambulances from “B” Company
 

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The 3d Hospital Unit of the 42d Field Hospital moved their personnel into VIELSALM with the Clearing Station, but due to lack of transportation, was forced to leave behind all equipment. This left the Division Medical Service in a serious plight, for the non-transportable cases, normally treated by a Field Hospital, were now to be treated at the Clearing Station which does not carry the special equipment necessary for this type of case.

“A” Company moved into St. Vith at 1600, and established a collecting station at the site vacated by “D” Company. An aid station was established one mile East of ST VITH to service the 81st and 168th Engineer Battalions which took up a defensive position on a ridge 1½ miles East of ST VITH. At this time “A” Company provided aid men, litter bearers, and operated an aid station exactly like a Battalion Medical Section. The organic medical personnel of the Engineers were insufficient to handle the numerous casualties being sustained. BALANTYNE, BUCKLEY, BALARZS and PAWASARAT of “A” Company distinguished themselves here by gallantry in action and were awarded the Bronze Star Medal.

“B” Company was still not heard from. Ambulances repeatedly tried to make contact again, but were prevented from doing so by enemy action.

“C” Company was under artillery fire through the night of 16-17 December. At 0200, only a small force was left between “C” Company and the enemy. At STEINBRUCK [STEINBRÜCK], the only bridge over which retreat was possible, was under shell fire, and so Capt Blanchard ordered the company to move back under blackout conditions to the vicinity of BREITFELD, BELGIUM. At the time of the move, 6 ambulances were being employed in the support of Battalion Aid Stations, and in transportation of casualties. By the time the new Station opened at BREITFELD, a battle was in progress at the bridge at STEINBRUCK [STEINBRÜCK].

Ambulance evacuation of the 2d and 3d Battalion Aid stations and the Regimental Aid Stations was over roads under artillery fire, and direct observation by the enemy. Later in the day, with Combat Team 424 falling back to the South, “C” Company was out of the 424th Combat Team Sector, and so moved back to ST. VITH into the building vacated by the Clearing Station at the Town Hall, and set up a Collecting Station.

Evacuation to the Clearing Station at VIELSALM was via Highway N-28. During the entire day, liaison was maintained by “C” Company with all units of Combat Team 424 and operated well. In addition, C Company was ordered to establish an aid station at the Division Command Post in St. Vith to service the elements in that vicinity.

The enemy continued his fierce attacks, exploiting the SCHONBERG [SCHÖNBERG] and WINTERSPELT thrusts in the direction of ST VITH. ST. VITH was attacked from the East, Northeast and Southeast. These attacks were all stopped about two miles from the town. During the day, Combat Command “B” of the 9th Armored Division and Combat Team 424 fell back on order to the line of the AUR RIVER, and held there till the close of the period. Elements of the First Panzer Division, however, had pushed through the 7th Armored Division sector North of ST VITH and advanced West of ST VITH to POTEAUX but were pushed back, until at the end of the period, our forces ware advancing on RECHT. Units in contact with the Division ware from north to South:

1st PANZER DIVISION
18th VOLKSGRENADIER DIVISION
62d VOLKSGRENADIER DIVISION
and elements of the 116 PANZER DIVISION.

18 Dec 44:  The full significance of the German drive was still not understood. The Medical Battalion was ordered to reconnoiter for Clearing Station sites in the rear at BARACQUE de FRAITURE, SAMREE, LaROCHE, and HOUFFALIZE. The enemy assaulted ST VITH, employing the major portion of the 164th Regiment of the 62d VG Division reinforced with armor. Combat Command “B” of the 9th Armored Division, was hit on the flanks and
 

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within their lines by small groups, and frontally by an estimated 2 battalions of Infantry supported    by tanks. Combat Team 112 of the 28th Infantry Division, on the South flank withdrew under enemy pressure. During the day, HOUFFALIZE was entered by enemy elements which were repulsed later.

At 0430, the 1st platoon of the Clearing Company arrived at VIELSALM, but knowing the road conditions from ST VITH to VIELSALM, a new route of evacuation was necessary. At 0600 Captain LaManche, Battalion S-2, volunteered to take four ambulances back to ST VITH over a new Southern route if it was usable.  It was, luckily, and became the evacuation route out of ST VITH.  Before Captain LaManche arrived at St. Vith, “C” Company ambulances were fired upon by hostile machine guns West of ST VITH on Highway N-28, and were finally forced to abandon the use of the road.  One ambulance did get through, with bullet holes in the ambulance. Route N-28 was under small arms, machine gun and mortar fire at this time.

At the end of a heavy artillery and mortar barrage in ST. VITH, a convoy of ambulances was formed, and was directed to VIELSALM via the new Southern route through BEHO. This relieved the congestion of patients at ST VITH.

Company “A” continued to operate at ST VITH until ordered to withdraw at 1900, at which time the company withdrew to VIELSALM. This company provided excellent medical support and ambulance reinforcement at ST VITH. When ordered to withdraw to VIELSALM, Company “A” immediately made available technicians, litter bearers, and medical officers to assist the 2d Platoon of “D” Company.

Company “B” was still missing in action.

Company “C” moved back to BEHO when Combat Team 424 fell back to the vicinity of BRACHT, BERG REULAND, and LASCHEID in order to be in a better position to service them. Here at BEHO, 5 ambulances were attached from Company “A” to assist in the evacuation of casualties.  At this time, two litter squads which had been requested by the Surgeon of the 424th Infantry Regiment were released to “C” Company.

Company “D” worked hard and well at VIELSALM. The First platoon which finally arrived at VIELSALM after 12 hours on the road from ST VITH never realized how close they came to being ambushed on the road, because it was not many hours later that the ST VITH-VIELSALM highway was cut by elements of the 1st SS Panzer Division. At noon, again, the First Platoon was directed out of VIELSALM to LaROCHE – a place of supposed safety, far from the enemy.  There the clearing company was ordered to establish a holding station for such minor casualties as trench foot and upper respiratory infections, which could be returned to duty quickly.

Had it been known what the extent of the enemy attack was, the Clearing Station First Platoon would not have been at LaROCHE. And no reconnaissance would have been made at HOUFFALIZE. At any rate, all personal and equipment not needed at VIELSALM was sent to LaROCHE, and then all transportation (except a 1½ ton kitchen truck) was returned to VIELSALM in order to expedite a move if one became necessary for the platoon in operation at VIELSALM.

Casualties arrived in large numbers at VIELSALM, many of them very badly hurt. These casualties were from many different units; 7th Armored, Ninth Armored Division, 168th Engineers, numerous artillery units, and from Combat Team 112 of the 28th Infantry Division and from our own Division. The horrible effect at Armored Piercing projectiles on Tankmen was evident from the injuries sustained by the tankers. Traumatic amputations were numerous, and a few were multiple. Deep shook, hemorrhage, sucking wounds, were frequent. And with everybody concentrating on the job at hand casualties still continued to pile up. Ambulance evacuation to the rear was augmented by attachment of another ambulance platoon, but this, too was not enough. The evacuation
 

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Hospitals were far back, the roads uncertain, ambulances going out of the station with patients never returned, and supplies were running low. Large amounts of plasma were needed, morphine, penicillin, etc.  Much ingenuity was displayed. For example, when patients in deep shock, with collapsed veins into which it was impossible to pour plasma, needed quick infusion, the Femoral Vein was used.

The process was quick, easy, but required skill in technique.  Whole blood was needed, and none was available. And so from the men in the station who were less seriously injured, and from some of this medical soldiers, many volunteered to give blood for the badly hurt patients. It was collected in improvised containers, and used to great advantage in cases of deep shock and hemorrhage.

On this date, 175 casualties were evacuated, there were two deaths, both chest wounds with additional wounds of the extremities.

19 Dec 44:   The tactical situation of this date in our sector did not change markedly, although the enemy pressure was maintained. All medical installations remained in their previous locations. Only 92 cases were evacuated to the rear out of the Clearing Station. Plans for withdrawal were made, and even a little optimism appeared for G-3 announced that the First Infantry and Tenth Armored Divisions were on their way to help us out.

ST VITH was still held by the Engineers. Combat Team 112 of the 28th Infantry Division was attached to the 106th Infantry Division, and the Medical Collecting Company of this Combat Team, “C” Company of the 103d Medical Battalion, was attached to the 331st Medical Battalion, and incorporated into the Medical Service of the unit.

Captain Grosh, Commander of the Clearing Company, with key technicians returned from LaROCHE to be with the active station. 52 casualties were present at the station at LaROCHE. Plans were made to send patients directly to LaROCHE from the station at VIELSALM in order to keep the Second Platoon mobile.

The Battalion S-4 left for LaRoche early in the morning because gsa, rations, and medical supplies were urgently needed. Supplies at LaROCHE were hauled back to VIELSALM where they were more urgently needed. Mr. ECKWERTH, the Battalion Medical Supply Officer left with a truck to get supplies at LIEGE. About 1700, arrangements were made with the Seventh Armored Division Quartermaster to draw gas and rations, and at 2300 the convoy arrived at VIELSALM with 1200 rationS and 1000 gallons of gasoline. The 106th Division Quartermaster had also provided 400 blankets by drawing one from each man in the Rear Echelon of Division Headquarters, and also 500 rations. So the problem of supply was settled for the time being.

Ambulances sent to the 107th Evacuation Hospital with patients never returned from LIBIN, and no accurate records could be kept as to just where these patients finally arrived. This also added to our supply problem because we lost blankets, litters, splints, etc.

20 Dec 44:  G-3 reports that the Germans were sending patrols north toward the highway between LaROCHE and BARAQUE [DE] FRAITURE. Enemy plans an obvious pincers attack on LaROCHE. The Medical Battalion sent Lt. Wanderman, The S-1 to LaROCHE to alert the station for a move. Just West of BARAQUE Fraiture, he was fired upon, and wounded, but was able to escape the ambush. Upon his return, he told the story of the German road block, and now the situation looked critical, our ambulance evacuation to the rear being cut. New routes had to be found. More ambulances and supplies were needed. Patients were piling into the station from the various units then engaged around ST VITH and VIELSALM. “C” Company reported that artillery was falling around the 424th Infantry Regimental Aid Station.

The Division ordered that the ground would be held in the event that pincers move
 

6

developed to envelop LaROCHE.

Reconnaissance showed that evacuation to LIEGE was practicable, using the road through JOUBIEVAL and WERBOMONT, and ambulances were routed that way but never returned.

Lt. Col. Boland, Commanding the 77th Medical Battalion of the Seventh Armored Division discussed evacuation with Lt. Col. Neigus, Commanding the 331st Medical Battalion. Due to the fact that our station contained many patients from the Seventh Armored Division it was requested that we be given as much assistance as possible particularly plasma, penicillin, dressings, adhesive plaster, tetanus toxoid, morphine, blankets, and litters. Lt. Colonel Boland informed us that all but combat troops were being evacuated from LaRoche. No word had come in from the platoon stationed there.

“A” Company was still busily engaged reinforcing the Second Platoon of “D” Company at VIELSALM, and assisting “C” Company in evacuation. In addition “A” Company assisted with evacuation to the rear of the Clearing Station,

“C” Company remained at its site at BEHO, servicing Combat Team 424, and assisted in the evacuation of Combat Command “C” of the 7th Armored Division which had a Collecting Station at BEHO. Combat Command “B” of the Ninth Armored Division had a Collection-Clearing Station at BEHO, but due to a shortage of Army Ambulances, brought patients to our “C” Company which set up an Ambulance Control Point at BEHO. Companies “A” and “C” each sent 5 ambulances to this control point.

Orders were issued for “C” Company to pull back to SALMCHATEAU when the Combat Team moved back.

“D” Company treated 188 cases this date, and evacuated to the rear 88 cases of which 64 were taken at night by the Battalion Adjutant in 2 ½  ton trucks obtained from the Division Quartermaster. These 64 patients went in 4 trucks in convoy over unfamiliar roads, but they all arrived safely after a long tiring rough trip to LIEGE.

By 1600 the need for supplies was pressing, and so Captain Rinck, the Battalion S-4 and Technical Sergeant Weiss, Battalion Supply Sergeant left with 6 ambulances and 2 ½  ton trucks loaded with patients for LIEGE via the only road left open.  The patients were unloaded at 1930 at the 56th General Hospital. Medical Supplies consisting of whole blood, plasma, blankets, litters, bandages, and blood transfusion apparatus were obtained from the 409th Medical Depot. The convoy left LIEGE at 2330, and arrived at VIELSALM at 0430 on the 21st. A second convoy left later, as described above, under command of Lt. Wanderman.

The First Platoon of D Company at LaROCHE had an exciting experience. With the town under shellfire, and with only a 1 ½  ton truck for transportation, and with large quantities of supplies, both from Battalion Headquarters and “D” Company, the Platoon Leader, Captain Lewis, was in a difficult position. He obtained trucks from the 7th Armored Division, and loading personnel and organizational equipment, he had to leave behind much valuable equipment, including both organizational and personal. In the meantime he had evacuated all his patients to LIEGE by requisitioning the 2½  ton truck which Mr. Eckwerth brought in loaded with supplies. Mr. Eckwerth knew he could not get back by the LaROCHE-VIELSALM highway, and could not get any information on any other route available.

While loading the station to leave LaROCHE, an artillery shell fall in the courtyard, and killed Technician 5th Grade Quinlan who had volunteered to load up the kitchen under fire. Also killed was Technician 5th Grade Lawlor, Chaplain Day’s assistant. In the operating room where the surgeons were working on patients, Sergeant Buriak was seriously mounded by a shell fragment. The patient was knocked to the floor from the operating table, but he was put back upon the table and took more treatment. This
 

7

First Platoon furnished volunteers in response to a request from the Surgeon of the Seventh Armored Division. These men went out on the Samree-Vielsalm Road, and treated wounded under direct fire, evacuating them to the Station at LaROCHE. The only medical installations at LaROCHE were a rest center operated by the 7th Armored Division, and our Clearing Station. The former installation was busily engaged in getting ready to move, and so our station was the only one in active operation. When our station did finally move, Capt. Lewis, the platoon leader, with Mr. Eckwerth and several enlisted men volunteered to remain behind and operate a station. At 1700 the whole platoon finally left LaRoche, happy to leave, but saddened by the thought that one of their old friends had been killed and another wounded.

Hope for relief was when it became known that the 82d Airborne, Third Armored and 101st Airborne Divisions were moving into the sector.

21 Dec 44:  The position of the Division was still the same, with no change in the position of the medical installations. The 82d Airborne Division moved into position North and West of VIELSALM.

Units in contact with the 106th Infantry Division were the 62d and 560 VG Divisions and the 116 Panzer Division. ST VITH was still under heavy attack with fighting in the streets by 2100.

Elements of the 589th Field Artillery Battalion under Major Parker made a gallant and determined stand at BARAQUE [DE] FRAITURE cross roads.

On this date “D” Company cleared 96 patients.

22 Dec 44:  The Division's mission was to make a perimeter defense from Recht to St. Vith to Beho to Vielsalm and keep the road leading North from Vielsalm open for evacuation. Company “C” was to locate in the center of this area and “D” Company was to reconnoiter a new area for Clearing Northwest of Vielsalm.

In the afternoon, the Clearing Station moved from Vielsalm to Werbomont, and “C” Company moved into Vielsalm Building. The Clearing Station set up in tents for the first time in the ETO, with the weather very cold, but clearing. The move was completed by 2130. Practically all patients were now evacuated.

St. Vith fell to the Germans at 1300, and our troops fell back to Vielsalm.

23 Dec 44: On this date the entire Division moved back to an area Northwest of Werbomont and the entire Battalion assembled in the fields in the vicinity of Werbomont. The 1st Platoon of B Company arrived, and now the Battalion was together again, except for “B” Company which was missing in action.

24 Dec 44: CT 424 and CT 112 were attached to the 7th Armored Division and placed in Corps reserve. The remainder of the Division was ordered to assemble in the vicinity of Louveigne. Headquarters and D Company moved to Banneux, Companies A and C to vicinity Florze, and Co C, 112th Med Bn, the vicinity Remouchamps.

“D” Company transferred 117 cases today.

The Battalion was treated to a beautiful sight today when hundreds of heavy bombers were seen flying toward the German lines. It was the first clear day since the 15th, and the American Air Force displayed its might.

On the night before Christmas Chaplain Fleming and Day held services which were attended by all for the first time in a long while. “D” Company and Hq Det at Banneux heard the sweet voices of little children lifted in song, and the men sang Silent Night with deep feeling.

25 Dec 44: While the rest of the Battalion rested, C Company moved to the vicinity FAWEUX, to support CT 424, which was committed in the vicinity of HARRE. That evening CT 424 attacked and took Manhay, the first town retaken from the Germans in the present offensive.

26-28 Dec 44: The units maintained their position until 28 Dec 44 when Division was ordered to move to a bivouac area in the vicinity of Anthisnis.

D Company and Battalion Headquarters moved to Esneux, Belgium.

A Company moved to Hody into comfortable billets.

29 Dec 44:  The Medical Battalion rested and regrouped. C Company and 424 CT pulled back with the remainder of the Division.

30-31 Dec 44:     Medical Battalion continued to rest and regroup.
 

1 January l945

After a sober opening of the New Year, the company settled down to serious thoughts of helping to win this war. As the year began the company was established in a resting area at Hody, Belgium. The strength of the company at this time consisted of 3 Medical Officers, 2 Medical Administrative Officers and 87 enlisted men. Several of the enlisted men celebrated the day with promotions. Pvt. Harold E. Bryant was elevated to the grade of Technician fifth grade while the following men became Privates first-class.

Balarzs, Ernest
Fox, Thomas J.
Giandonato, Alfred J.
Jednzeyowski, Leo
Myers, Robert
Smith, Harold D.
Tulio, Genaro J.
Walters, Wilbert H.

All day preparations were made to attack the huge and delicious turkey dinner provided by our quartermaster. The attack started late in the afternoon and the object taken in short order with no casualties.

2-9 January l945

During this period the company remained at Hody, Belgium, resting, polishing up the equipment and re-equiping the unit. Station material that had been given to other units in particular was received. Entertainment in the form of stage shows and movies were provided at the rear echelon. All were greatly enjoyed. Tuning the ears to the various sounds of the V 1 bomb (Buzz Bomb) keep many of the company busy and awake at night. The distance they were away from our area could be distinguished and with careful observation it was discovered that they came from three different directions. The feeling that they originated from Von Rundtedts bulge was later confirmed. As the bulge was reduced the number of buzz bombs fell off.

Although many cut out near by none fell close to Hody, but the buildings were shaken. On 6 January Pvt. Luman F. Woodfin was assigned to the company. His older brother Lyman is a member of the company. On 8 January sixteen men of the company were placed on detached service with the Medical Detachment of the 424th Infantry. They were Technician fifth grade Ballantyne, Grasberger, Guelcher; Privates First class Balarzs, Giandonato, Descb, Waltrip, West, Smith; Privates Hutchison, Judge, Lubovich, Maycroft, Vassallo, Mandel, and Naliwka.

On 9 January S/Sgt. Carl D. Peak left the company for a deserved furlough to the States. He was placed on temporary duty with the 92nd Replacement Bn, 3rd Replacement Depot. On the 9th the company was assigned a mission of setting up a holding station to relieve the clearing company of much load. An area South West of Spa was reconnoitered for the station. This same day an ambulance was placed on detached service with the 592nd Field Artillery.

10 January 1945

The company moved from Hody, Belgium at 1000 to Fange Maron in the vicinity of Spa, Belgium and established a holding station for the Division. Late this day 29 non-battle casualties were received from the clearing company.
 

2

Here it was learned that the 424th had been assigned a mission on the line near Trois Point (Trois Ponts). Technician fifth grade Oscar F. Pawasarat was promoted to Technician fourth grade while Pfc. Richard W. LeLong was promoted to Technician fifth grade.

11 January 1945

As Fange Maron was located in an area assigned to another Division it was found necessary to move. The 29 patients were returned to the Clearing Station. It was located at Niveze, Belgium which is just East of Spa. A move to Fr. Berinzinne [Berinsenne], South of Spa was made by motor convoy. A station was established but no casualties were received.

12 January 1945

At Fr. Berinzenne [Berinsenne] awaiting orders. The company was notified of an impending offensive toward St. Vith. The 517th Para-regiment was attached to the Division. The area North of Stavelot was reconnoitered for possible Collecting Station site and routes of evacuation to support the 517th. It was later learned that the 517th had a plan of evacuation not necessitating the use of a collecting company. Instead plans were reestablished to have the company function as a holding station. No casualties were received.

13 January 1945

The company moved to Nivize, Belgium and occupied the buildings vacated by the Clearing Station which had moved to Sanat de Borgoumont. A holding station was established immediately with 47 patients. The type of cases received were foot cases, upper respiratory diseases, and exhaustion cases. An ambulance shuttle was set up at Francochamps [Francorchamps] by Lt. Jennings. This was to give additional support to the 517th Regimental Aid Station. Their run to the Clearing Station was rather lengthy. Two ambulance were attached to C Co. It was reported that Pfc. Desch received a Purple Heart while on detached service with the 424th. He was struck by a shell fragment on the right thigh. The wound was not serious enough for evacuation. 18th Corps artillery could be heard throughout the entire night.

14-15 January 1945

Still functioning as a holding station. 58 patients were treated on the 14th and 75 on the 15th. Artillery fire still very prominent. On the 15th Privates Adinolfi, Bischoff, Casalino, Caswell, Hutchison, Jackson, Maycroft, Warren, and Judge were promoted to the grade of Pfc A movie “Lost in a Harem” was shown to the patients and men of the company on the 15th. That evening Technician fourth grade McNaulty of the special service department entertained the complement and patients with a 9 piece orchestra.

16 January 1945

72 patients were treated on this day. Capt. Craig was relieved of assignment and duty and assigned to the 591st Field Artillery. Lt. Jennings with 2 Medical Technicians and 2 ambulances moved to Stavelot and established an ambulance relay point in support of the 517th Regiment. They had advanced to the South and East. The regimental aid station was now set up in Henimont. They transported casualties to the Clearing Station at the Sanatorium.
 

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17 January 1945

82 patients were treated. A buzz bomb fell 1000 yards from the station. 8 civilians and one soldier were administered aid for minor cuts received from flying glass. Windows in the building occupied by the station were broken by [but] no casualties here. Lt. Robson assigned and joined company.

18 January 1945

81 patients in holding station. The 424th and the 517th having achieved their objective, the 424th went into reserve while the 517th was attached to the 30th Division which was on the 106th Division’s left. Lt. Jennings relay point was discontinued. The ambulance with the 592nd Field Artillery returned.

19 January 1945

75 patients treated. P-X supplies were received and distributed.

20 January 1945

62 patients in station. Technician fifth grade Heillman and a 15 piece band entertained the patients and men of the company with magic and music. Lt. Shryock took the drummer’s position for several numbers and was well received.

21 January 1945

57 patients in station.

22 January 1945

75 patients in station.

23 January 1945

61 patients being treated. A three piece musical group entertained the patients.

24 January 1945

80 patients in station. Clearing Station moving to Chau du Grand Chene near Esneux. All units of the Division other than the 424th Infantry Regiment and the 2 Field Artillery Battalion were not needed to further reduce Von Runstedt’s (sic) bulge. Several men of the company sent to Hody to hold the buildings in the town for the company.

25 January 1945

All patients in station not able to be returned to duty were transferred to the Clearing Station now in rest area. Sgt. Hulsey and Pfc Adinolfi leave for a 3 day pass in Paris. Pfc. Harold B. Smith on detached service with the 424th Inf was killed in action. At the time he was acting as an aid man with L Company. His actions before his demise were exemplary so much that recommendation for the Silver Star will be made. He braved intense small arm fire to give aid to a Doughboy. On returning for a litter he was deliberately shot in the back by a German sniper who now is extremely sorry that he performed such an act.

26 January 1945

The company moves to rest area at Hody, Belgium.

27-31 January 1945

In rest area at Hody. The men take time to clean up and care for their equipment. Company equipment is repaired and restored to functioning conditions. On the 28th the entire company went by convoy to the Clearing Station where they witnessed Sgt. Reinhardt of C Company receive a battle field commission. General Perrin also presented Technician fourth grade Pawasarat and Pfc. Buckley with the Bronze Star Award. Technician fifth grade Ballantyne and Pfc. Balarzs were unable to receive the Bronze Star Award at this presentation as they were still on detached service with the 424th. On the 29th the 424th was relieved from the line. All men on detached service with this unit were returned. Inspection of clothing and equipment was made.

Requisitions were submitted. P-X supplies were received and issued. Adinolfi and Hulsey returned from Paris after 3 exciting days of sight seeing. On the 31st some clothing and equipment was received and issued to the men. Lt. Shyrock left for a 3 day pass in Paris. Lt. Jennings transferred to Division Surgeon’s office the 27th but refused position vacated by Capt. Klett who was left in England at a General Hospital. Lt. Jennings to stay with company. Lt. Rhinehardt MAC attached unassigned to company.

Technician third grade Castaldo transferred to B Company but remains with company on detached service. Pfc. Wilbert H. Walters promoted to the grade of Technician fifth grade. The month ended with 3 Medical Officers, 2 MAC Officers, and 81 enlisted men in the company. In the minds of all was the offensive that the Russians were waging. We are wondering how this marvelous offensive will effect the outcome of the war. Interesting discussions have been started over this offensive.
                        
Signed
ROBERT C. MITTERLING
Capt. MC
Commanding
 

On the morning of 10 December 1944, at 0900 hours, Co. ‘D’ 331st Med Bn (Clearing Company for the 106th Inf Div) moved from its bivouac area in the vicinity of St. Vith, via motor convoy, into the town of St. Vith. At this time the actual strength of the Company was as follows: 10 MC Off, 2 DC Off, and 1 MAC; making a total of 13 Off, of which 9 were Captains (1 atchd unasgd) and 4 1st Lieutenants; the enlisted personnel was composed of 97 EM.  Captain Joseph W. Grosh, M. C. was Commanding Officer and John J. Buck was 1st Sgt.

The Company occupied the buildings, with the troops of the 2nd Division which were operating a Clearing Station there, at that time. For two days the Company afforded themselves the opportunity of observing the 2nd Div. Clr Sta in operation, learning a great deal from their combat experiences, and exchanging ideas with them. At 0001 hours, 12 December 1944 the 106th Clearing Station was opened to receive casualties in the same buildings, #5 Aachen Strasse, St. Vith, Belgium, now vacated by the 2nd Division. The tactical positions, and administrative and technical set-up of troops of the 106th Inf Div were practically identical with those formerly used by the 2nd Division.

During our first day of operation we treated 78 cases, transferred 13 cases and returned to duty 4 cases from all units served. There were four Battle Casualties admitted during this first day. The first of whom was Pvt Koukol, John L., ASN xxxxxxx, of Co 'B', 422 Inf Regt with the following diagnosis, BC WIA Shell Wound (High Explosive) Pert W, leg, left, middle third, S, Shell Fragment. Two of the four Battle Casualties were classified as seriously wounded, and two slightly wounded. The remainder of cases admitted on this date included, Cold and moisture, reaction to, feet, bilateral, S, Nasopharyngitis, Furuncles and Gastroenteritis.

On the 13 December 1944 we treated 110 cases, transferred 15 cases; and returned to duty 6 cases. Eleven of these were Battle Casualties and the remainder included cases diagnosed as Trench Foot, Nasopharyngitis, Gastro-enteritis, etc.

On the 14 December 1944 we treated 141 eases, transferred 16 cases, and returned 10 cases to duty. Six of the 141 cases were Battle Casualties and diagnoses of the remaining included, Pneumonia, Trench Foot, Gastritis, Sprains, Bronchitis, etc.

On the 15 December 1944 we treated 151 cases, transferred 33 cases and returned 22 cases to duty. Again there were a considerable number of cases of Trench Foot (Cold and moisture, reaction to, feet) admitted. A majority of these men were not wearing Galoshes and had been on duty outside, exposed to extreme cold and damp weather for long periods of time.

A survey of the cases of Trench Foot (Cold and moist, reaction to ,ft,) revealed that the major incidence occurred in the 422nd Regt. The men of this Regt were not issued galoshes until several days after moving into positions along the front lines. They had been required to stay in outpost positions for extended periods of time and facilities for keeping clean dry socks on their feet were inadequate. 

2

At about 0600 hours 16 December 1944 the 106th Inf Div was subjected to heavy enemy artillery fire which marked the beginning of a major enemy drive which had St. Vith as one of its main objectives. Units of our Division were bearing the brunt of the attack and as a result at about 0830 hours our station began to receive its first large group of battle casualties. Some of the first casualties brought in were Civilians from the vicinity of St. Vith. The majority of the wounds were inflicted by fragments of high explosive shells. The number of cases treated were 272, transferred 190 cases (most of which were Battle Casualties) and returned to duty 25 cases.

No contact could be made with Collecting Company ‘B’ 331st Med Bn on this day and they have not been heard from even at this time and are now listed as Missing In Action. The majority of our casualties were from the 424th Inf Regt (70 BC and 16 NBC). We had 155 battle casualties of which 25 cases were considered serious. The type of wounds varied, chest and face the most serious and many of the legs and arms very severe. In all cases where necessary Penicillin and Plasma were liberally administered to prevent infection and shock. The use of which improved greatly the condition of most of the patients.

During the day the town of St.Vith was subjected to enemy artillery fire and a few of the shells landed 1000 to 2000 yards from the Clearing Station. Because of the rapid advance of the German Forces toward St. Vith a reconnaissance party was sent to the rear to find a new location for our Clearing station. A site was found at Vielsalm, Belgium.

A member of our organization Pvt William J. Berry, ASN xxxxxxxx, was evacuated 16 December 1944 to the 67th Evacuation Hospital with the following diagnosis Nasopharyngitis, acute, catarrhal, S,  LOD.  Our strength on this day was therefore 13 Officers and 96 enlisted personnel.

Our troops were forced back by the enemy and because of the unfavorable tactical situation on the morning of the 17 December 1944 it was decided to move the Clearing Station to Vielsalm, Belgium. The 2nd Clearing Platoon departed from St. Vith at 1130 hours 17 December 1944 and by infiltration via motor convoy arrived at Vielsalm, Belgium at 1345. The distance traveled was approximately 18 kms and the reason for the delay in arrival was that the 7th Armored Division was moving up to meet the German attack and had the road blocked at many places.

The new Station opened at 1430 hours in a building which was being used as a Catholic boarding school. The 1st Platoon departed from St. Vith by motor convoy at 1630 hours 17 December 1944 and arrived at Vielsalm at 0615 hours 18 December 1944. The reason for the 14 hr trip was that the St. Vith - Vielsalm highway was jammed with 7th Armored vehicles moving up to St. Vith to engage the enemy.

At this time the general tactical situation was as follows: The 422nd and 423rd Inf Regts were reported to be cut-off in the vicinity of Schonberg [Schönberg], Belgium. The enemy's main effort was a twin pincers drive moving from Malmedy to Stavelot on the north and on the south from south of St. Vith to Bastogne. Both of these pincers were aimed at closing in on LaRoche and Houffalize. By 2400 hours 17 December 1944 the enemy's leading elements had reached Houffalize on the south and Stavelot on the north. A few patrols and paratroopers were reported east of Vielsalm attacking our rear lines of communication leading from Vielsalm to LaRoche, Belgium.

The number of cases treated this day 17 December 1944 was 130 cases, transferred 90 cases and returned to duty 27 cases. Of these cases 64 were battle casualties of which 10 were serious. The non-battle casualties were made up of feet cases, nasopharyngitis, cellulitis and exhaustion. The battle casualties were still varied with wounds of the legs and arms most prevalent, and a few of the face and buttocks. 

3

Due to the seriousness of the tactical situation and the proximity of the enemy it was necessary to make a reconnaissance to the rear to find a site for our Clearing Station in case movement was necessary. A place was found at LaRoche, Belgium and on 18th December 1944 the 1st Platoon departed from Vielsalm via motor convoy at 1200 hours. They arrived at LaRoche, Belgium (distance traveled 20 miles) at 1330 hours and established and opened a Clearing Station at 1400 hours. The 2nd Platoon remained at Vielsalm handling the more serious cases with the 1st Platoon acting as a holding station at LaRoche.

Casualties were very heavy in the vicinity of St. Vith and Vielsalm and the 2nd Platoon was exceptionally busy during their entire stay at Vielsalm. Enlisted men and Officers were so busy caring for patients that they forgot about the dangerous location they were in and were heedless of the artillery and small arms which was so very close. All personnel of the 2nd Platoon worked day and night. Collecting Company ‘A’, 331st Medical Battalion joined us at Vielsalm and the enlisted men rendered valuable service both as technicians and litter bearers.

Officers of ‘A’ Company worked in admission and surgery assisting our Officers in handling the heavy load of patients. The majority of patients received had been injured 24 to 48 hours previous to being brought to the Clearing station and because of the delay in treatment and exposure to extreme cold, many of them were suffering from deep shock. A large number of the seriously wounded cases were suffering from perforating wounds of the chest end many others with compound fractures. Several cases from Armored outfits had their legs blown-off and were in very deep shock on admission. During this period many of our worst casualties were from the 7th and 9th Armored Divisions.

We had lost contact with the 422nd and 423rd Inf. Regts and hence they were evacuating no casualties to us. However, we received many casualties from the 424th Inf. Regt. In many instances it was necessary to give at least four patients plasma at the same time. Many patients brought into the station were so deep in shock that no vein could be found for the administration of plasma. In these cases it became necessary to give plasma in the Femoral vein. This was the first time this procedure had been attempted by Medical Officers of this unit. No difficulty was encountered and patients responded to the treatment remarkably well. Two amputations were done in the station during this period of time.

As evacuation of patients being difficult and for a period of time stopped altogether (due to the tactical situation) it became necessary to give whole blood to some patients. As a whole, supplies were adequate but we were unable to obtain whole blood. A request for volunteer blood donors was made through-out the station. Within one hour 30 patients (cases of Trench Foot) had given their names as blood donors. The transfusions were successfully completed by the Medical Officers using makeshift equipment and good American ingenuity.

One day ran into another with no one paying much attention to the time of day but each day seeming busier then the preceding one. Medical Officers from Division Headquarters and from the 42nd Field Hospital who were stranded with us, helped in the work through-out the station; giving a considerable amount of valuable aid to our own overburdened Medical Officers. Along with the Medical Officers, Chaplain Fleming worked both night and day, giving invaluable assistance to Officers and technicians in the surgical treatment room, accomplishing his own work as well as helping in surgery work when he could.

The 22nd December 1944 found the tactical situation very hazardous. There was no contact between the 2nd Platoon at Vielsalm and the 1st Platoon at LaRoche, the road having been cut by the Germans between LaRoche and Houffalize, Belgium. 

4

The roads on three sides of Vielsalm had been blocked, thus leaving only one escape route. This was the road leading to the northwest, to Werbomont, Belgium, now held open by the 82nd Airborne Division. The enlisted personnel knew little of the true situation around Vielsalm which was probably a sizeable factor in their being able to carry out a large amount of their work without mental alarm.

A resume of casualties treated each day in Vielsalm is as follows:

18 December 1944 we treated 247 cases, transferred 175 cases and returned to duty 2 cases. 2 Cases died in the Station. They were: Sgt John Jambrano, ASN xxxxxxxx, Hq 14th Cavalry with the following diagnosis: BC WIA GSW Chest & FC lt arm, GSW rt arm & rt hand (Machine Gun), LOD Yes, death at 1600 hours and Sgt Daniel M. Bickel, ASN xxxxxxxx, Co K 424th Inf Regt with the following diagnosis: BC WIA Pen & sucking W rt chest, GSW rt Arm SV, LOD Yes death at 1530 hours.

19 December 1944 we treated 111 cases, transferred 92 cases and returned to duty 1 case.  2 Cases died in Station. They were: Pvt Valentino Pizzingrillo, ASN xxxxxxxx, MD 38th Inf Regt, with the following diagnosis: BC WIA Shell Wound Lac W FCC tibia & fibula LOD Yes and Pvt Edward F. Wallis, ASN xxxxxxxx, Co B 635 AAA, with the following diagnosis: BC WIA rt lag amputated, FC left leg, SV, Shell Fragment (High Explosive) LOD Yes.

20 December 1944 we treated 182 cases, transferred 88 cases and returned to duty 4 cases.

21 December 1944 we treated 295 cases, transferred 144 cases and returned to duty 22 cases.

22 December 1944 we treated 234 cases, transferred 96 cases and returned to duty 4 cases.

On the 22 December 1944 one section of the 2nd platoon departed from Vielsalm via motor convoy for Werbomont, Belgium at 1230 hours. They arrived at 1500 hours (distance of approximately 18 miles) and established and opened a Clearing Station to receive patients at 1600 hours. The remaining section of the 2nd Platoon continued to operate a Clearing Station at Vielsalm until 1900 hours, when it closed the station and proceeded with remaining personnel and essential equipment to Werbomont via motor convoy. They arrived at 2250 hours. Artillery fire was continuous throughout most of the night, and enemy planes dropped flares and bombs within a few miles of the station shortly after midnight.

On the 23 December 1944 the Platoon reformed the station tentage. Erecting the six Ward Tents and one pyramidal tent so as to form the pattern of a cross. In the area surrounding our station were located, the 45th Field Hospital, 1st Army Clearing Station some collecting stations end Company ‘A’ 331st Medical Battalion. The 1st platoon arrived at about 1700 hours after several hectic days of moving about, keeping just a little ahead of the German forces. This reunion was a happy occasion for all, concerned and the whole company was again intact with the exception of three men; one man killed in action another seriously wounded in action and one men evacuated with Nasopharyngitis. 

5

The following is a resume concerning the activities of the 1st Platoon at LaRoche, Belgium with a statement by Captain Grosh, M.C. and Captain Elmer Lewis, M. C. 1st Platoon Commander.

Statement of Captain Joseph W. Grosh, M.C. Commanding Officer, Co. D 331 Med BN:

On the afternoon of 18 December 1944 at about 1300 hours I received orders to move the 1st Clearing Platoon from Vielsalm to LaRoche. We proceeded at 1100 hours and arrived at LaRoche at 1500 hours. We set-up our Station in a Catholic school. The station opened at 1600 hours. About a half hour later we received our first casualties from the 2nd Platoon located at Vielsalm. These casualties were walking wounded, Cold and Moisture reaction to feet, etc., and Nasopharyngitis. They numbered approximately 40 cases. They were sent to us to relieve the overburdened 2nd Platoon which was receiving a large number of seriously injured casualties at Vielsalm. In addition to the above casualties we received battle casualties from other units in the vicinity of LaRoche.

I stayed with the first platoon until approximately 1400 hours 19 December l944 when we were contacted by Battalion Hq and I was requested to return to Vielsalm. I turned the Command of the station over to Captain Lewis, Platoon leader of the 1st Platoon and proceeded to Vielsalm where I arrived at 1530 hours.

The following is an account of the action of the 1st Platoon from the time of my departure until the return of the 1st Platoon to Werbomont 23 December l944.

STATEMENT of Captain Elmer W. Lewis, M. C. 1st Platoon Commander:

I assumed command of the 1st Platoon Clearing Station at LaRoche at 1500 hours when Captain Grosh left for Vielsalm.

At 1600 hours we received some casualties from the 45th Field Hospital at St. Vith. These were given hot drinks and one patient who had a tension Pneumo-Thorax. A Thoraco Centesis [thoracentesis] was performed with under water drainage and the patient was evacuated in an improved condition.

On the morning of the 20 December 1944 at approximately 0600 hours enemy shells began landing at irregular intervals in the vicinity of our Clearing Station.

At approximately 0900 hours an Officer was sent to the Hq of Colonel Adams, Tank Cmdr, of the 7th Armored Division to get information as to the tactical situation as we were out of contact with our own Hq and had no other source of information. We were told there was no immediate danger, advised to sit-tight and if the situation changed we would be notified.

Col. Adams, also, told us that if it became necessary to evacuate he would send us three trucks from the 446th QM transport Troop of the 7th Armored Division. We had no vehicles with us with the exception of one 3/4 ton maintenance truck loaded with tools and equipment and gasoline. CWO John A. Eckwerth arrived at 0900 hours from Liege, Belgium with a 2 ½   ton truck completely loaded with medical supplies. We had no other transportation as all our trucks were with the 2nd Platoon at Vielsalm.

The shelling was less for an hour or so until about 1100 hours when after several near hits from High Explosive Shells (probably 88MM) it was decided to evacuate our patients. The 2 ½ ton truck from Liege, Belgium with medical supplies having been unloaded, 34 patients were evacuated in this truck. They were accompanied by 1st Lt. Monroe E. Neuman, M. C. He was to take them to an Evacuation Hospital at Libin, Belgium but when he arrived there the hospital was unable to accept them and so he went to the 130th General Hospital. He then started back (the following morning 21st December 1944) and rejoined us enroute to Dinant, Belgium at about 1100 hours 21 December 1944.

The last word we had from Battalion Hq was about 0900 hours when S/Sgt Kirk (Co. D) arrived from Vielsalm. He had no orders except a request for a report on patients which we planned to send. We later learned that 1st Lt. Wanderman, left Vielsalm about ½  to 1 hour after S/Sgt. Kirk but was unable to get through being fired upon and wounded enroute. 

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At 1130 hours Captain Lifchez and 1st Lt. Boris Krynski were sent in a weapons carrier to locate a new site for our station in the event it should be necessary to move which we did not intend to do at this time because of information received from the 7th Armored Division. Lt. Krynski and Captain Lifchez were under shell-fire in leaving LaRoche and after locating a site at Malreaux, Belgium about 5 miles distant. They were forced to return by another route due to enemy action and did not arrive back at our station until approximately 1545 hours at which time they reported that the road to Vielsalm was still closed.

At 1300 hours a request for an ambulance and aid for casualties was reported on the road between LaRoche and Vielsalm in the vicinity of Samree, Belgium. Capt George M. Osborne, M.C., and Tec 4 Leland A. Dubois, Tec 4 William C. Essary Jr., Tec 4 Paul M. Eaton, Pfc Edward E. Heimann, Pvt Domingo P. Perez were sent. They reported to Lt. Col. Karpinski where they were under shell-fire as active combat was going on here with small arms fire, Mortar fire and Armored vehicles. Casualties were given aid and evacuated by ambulance. Tec 4 Dubois volunteered to remain behind and assist Lt. Col. Karpinski when be requested a man be left with him. The rest returned to our station.

At about 1315 hours we received a direct hit just in front of our station which was probably an 88MM High Explosive shell. Fragments struck and instantly killed Tec 5 John I. Quinlan, ASN xxxxxx, Co. D 331 Med Bn. The diagnosis made on this man was: BC KIA SW (HE) Pen occipital region left SV SF, LOD Yes death at 1315 hours. Also killed instantly was Tec 5 Raymond Lawler Hq Co 106th Inf Div with wounds of rt chest and rt. arm. These men were in front of the building at the time working on our kitchen equipment which we were getting ready to load.

About 1345 hours another shell burst just in front of our station. A fragment coming through the window wounded T/Sgt Theodore Buriak, Co. D 331 Med Bn. His right ilium was shattered and a laceration of the lower right quadrant of the abdominal wall was present. His leg was splinted, hemorrhage controlled, morphine given and two units of Plasma and he was immediately evacuated to the 130th General Hospital. His condition was good although we were not sure whether he had a perforation of the bowel or not. We also evacuated Sgt. Ralph H. Brown, ASN xxxxxxxx, with Nasopharyngitis, cat., ac., to the same hospital.

At about 1415 hours we received word from the 42nd Field Hospital that they were leaving and they took two other battle casualties that we had received from the 7th Armored Division. It was decided to evacuate as much of our material as we could and most of our personnel leaving behind a skeleton crew of one Officer and 8 EM to give aid to any casualties we might receive. We got 3  2 ½ ton trucks from the 443 QM Transport Troop and loaded as much material on them as we could, giving priority to Personnel, essential medical equipment and valuable medical equipment such as Plasma. A large quantity having been brought that morning in the 2 ½ ton truck from Liege by CWO Eckwerth (most of which was intended for the station at Vielsalm).  These were loaded and left with all personnel including 5 patients who were ready to return to duty, at about 1500 hours, leaving behind the skeleton crew mentioned above.

At about 1530 hours a liaison man was sent to Col. Adams Hq. and we were informed that casualties were being cared for at a Collecting Station about 3 miles out of LaRoche on the road to Malreaux and that we were serving no useful purpose in remaining and Col. Adams advised us to leave immediately. This we did and left LaRoche at about 1700 hours with Capt. Lifchez and 1st Lt. Krynski and our 8 EM and two Army ambulances that reported in just as we were ready to leave. We met two more shortly after and they joined us. When the trucks with the advance party was leaving they took a water trailer, one trailer containing an electric generator and other equipment but one trailer containing the Company Records and Safe was left behind. This was not noted in the excitement of the shelling and evacuating and we were not able to return for it when its absence was noted the following morning as by this time Malreaux, Belgium was being shelled.

We located at Malreaux, Belgium that night at about 1900 hours and contacted the advance Hq. of the Third Armored Division at Malreaux to see if they could give us any information on how we could get to Vielsalm. They told us that they did not think we could get through and advised us that we should not try it that night.
 

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At about 2300 hours our guards reported lights in a nearby house flashing on and off at regular intervals, in the manner of signals. Capt. Osborne confirmed this and on knocking on the door with the intention of warning them or investigating the door was slammed shut and barred. He reported this to a Reconnaissance Car in town and they came out, shots were exchanged between the house and the car and five prisoners were taken and turned over to the local police.

We had left a liaison agent at the Advance Headquarters of the 3rd Armored Division and he reported at 0615 that there was no change. While serving breakfast at 0730 shells began landing in our vicinity and small arms fire was heard. We had intended contacting Advance Hq of the 3rd Armored Division again and perhaps going to their Hq. at Werbomont, Belgium but this route now seemed cut-off and we left for Durbuy, Belgium which seemed to be the only road open.

Being unable to get any information there we went on to Dinant, Belgium where we hoped to be able to contact our Division Hq. This not being possible at the time it was decided to remain there until we could get word to our own Hq. or learn their location. We contacted QM Hq. in Dinant and they quartered us in an empty hotel that night. They had no information as to the tactical situation but when I returned at 0800 hours 22 December 1944, they had moved to the other side of the river.

As we could not get quarters there an Advance Agent was sent to Givet, Belgium where he contacted the CO, of the Repl Pool. He advised us to go to Namur, Belgium and try to contact the 1st Army there. We moved our convoy to Namur. Ten more ambulances having joined us after being unable to get to Vielsalm the day before the 21 December l944. At Namur our advance agent was able to contact G-3 of the 1st Army and after some delay received orders about 1800 to report to the 134th Medical Group at Verviers, Belgium. By the time our convoy was located it was 2100 hours and men were housed in a vacant house in the outskirts of Namur.

We left at 0730 on the 23 December 1944 for Verviers where we reported. We were told there by the CO, to report to our own Hq. in the vicinity of Werbomont, Belgium. We left Verviers at 1700 hours and reported to our Hq. at about 2000 hours on the 23 December 1944.

Equipment we left at LaRoche, Belgium consisted of Footlockers and Duffle bags of Officers and Duffle Bags of Enlisted Men. Medical Equipment consisting of: Litters, several blanket cases and 2 units of our kitchen, stove, etc.

On the 23 December 1944 when the company was again functioning as a whole the strength was still 13 Officers but the enlisted personnel was now reduced to 93 men. On that date we treated 114 cases, transferred 58 cases and returned 2 cases to duty from all units served.

On 24 December 1944, 130 cases were treated, 117 cases were transferred, and 13 were returned too duty.  Aside from routine treatment and function, the company was given a lift in spirits when thousands of heavy bombers (B-17 Fortresses) flew over head bound for Germany. A few of these plus a few of our protective fighter planes were downed by flak and enemy aircraft.

The Clearing Station at Werbomont was closed at 1700 hours 24 December 1944, and the Company was transported via motor convoy, a distance of 15 miles, to Banneux, Belgium arriving at l945 hours.

The 106th Division Clearing Station was opened to receive casualties at 1000 hours 25 December 1944. In this location the station was operating in a building used as an orphanage and school for small children, war victims, sponsored by the Catholic Church under the direct supervision of two priests and several nuns. Casualty admissions and dispositions for 25 December 1944 were as follows: 17 cases treated, 17 cases evacuated to the rear, and none returned to duty. One of our own units (424th Inf  Regt) was committed but we were giving no direct support to any other units, hence the reason for such a small number of cases received for treatment on this date.

Our Clearing Station treated few casualties at Banneux, Belgium with the exception of the 26 December l944. On that day the 424th Inf Regt was subjected to a heavy enemy artillery barrage which brought us many casualties. Our records show 128 cases treated, 121 cases transferred and 3 cases returned to duty. On approximately the 27 December 1944 the 424th Inf Regt was sent to a rest area.
 

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Also on the 26 December 1944 Captain Jack B. Kamholz was reld fr atchd unasgd and assigned to Company “B” 331st Medical Battalion per Par. l, SO #116 Hq 331st Medical Battalion and Tec 4 Alexander W. Krupka, ASN 11044475, Company “B” was placed on DS with us per the same Special Order Par. 3. Our strength at this time was 12 Officers and 93 enlisted personnel, plus 1 EM on Detached Service with us.

While at Banneux the Company had an opportunity to check shortages and serviceability of equipment. Lists were compiled of both Company and personal equipment shortages were made and turned in on requisition for issue. Many men had lost equipment particularly, the 1st Platoon, who, due to their hasty departure from LaRoche, had little more than the clothing they were wearing.

On the 27 December 1944 we treated 55 cases, transferred 16 cases and returned 3 cases to duty.

On the 28 December 1944 we treated 70 cases, transferred 3 cases and returned 9 cases to duty.

Because we were quite a distance from other units of our Division which were in rest areas near Esneux, Belgium, we made plans to move our Clearing Station to Esneux on the 28 December 1944. At 1630 hours 28 December 1944 the 2nd Platoon left Banneux via motor convoy for Esneux, arriving there about 1730 hours. Distance traveled 12 miles. The 1st Platoon departed from Banneux at 1000 on 29 December 1944.

They joined the 2nd Platoon at Esneux at 1130 hours.  The Clearing Station was located in a spacious Chateau which had very good accommodations for treatment and care of patients. On 29 December 1944 at 1630 hours a V-l bomb landed approximately 400 yards from our building and shattered nearly all the windows in the building.

Sgt Kenneth Finlayson was cut by flying glass while on duty in the admission room. Four EM of Hq Det were also slightly cut by flying glass. During our stay at Esneux V-1 Bombs came over the building at frequent intervals and many landed near enough to shake the building. Because our Division was receiving reinforcements and in the process of re-equipping we had very few casualties while here. The year’s end found us still at Esneux.

On the 29 December 1944 we treated 67 cases, transferred 14 cases and returned to duty 22 cases from all units served.

On the 30 December 1944 we treated 50 cases, transferred 3 cases and returned to duty 13 cases. On this date 1st Sgt John J. Buck, ASN xxxxxxxx, was evacuated to the 128th Evacuation Hospital with the following diagnosis: NBC Cholangitis, ac., cat., S, cause undet., LOD Yes. Our strength was now 12 Officers and 92 enlisted personnel. S/Sgt Walter L. Hearn was appointed acting 1st Sgt.

On the 31 December 1944 we treated 62 cases, transferred 7 cases, and returned to duty 10 cases. On the last day of the month our strength remained the same as already shown for the 30 December 1944. Our Clearing Station was still at Esneux, Belgium and a Supplementary Report was this date turned in on Casualties handled by the 1st Platoon at LaRoche, Belgium on the 19 and 20 December 1944. Which were: 19 December 1944 we treated 49 cases, transferred 7 cases and returned 0 to duty; 20 December 1944 we treated 146 cases, transferred 146 cases and returned 0 to duty.

The first day of 1945 found our Clearing Station still operating in the Chateau near Esneux, Belgium K452158 and our census of  patients treated were 59 cases, transferred 8 cases, and returned to duty 9 cases from all units served. Our Company had 12 Officers of which 9 were MC, 2 DC, and 1 MAC (8 Captains and 4 1st Lieutenants) 92 EM and 1 EM on Detached Service with us from Company “B” 331 Medical Battalion (Tec 4 Alexander W. Krupka). Captain Joseph L. Grosh, M. C. was commanding officer and S/Sgt Walter L. Hearn was acting 1st Sgt.

December 1944 had been a very eventful month for our outfit and we had no idea of what the future might hold for us. The tactical situation was improving considerably in our favor and the enemy was being forced back toward St. Vith while suffering heavy casualties. The 424th Inf Regt was in a rest area. While the two other infantry Regiments of the 106th Infantry Division (422nd and 423rd) were still Missing In Action with the exception of a few hundred men who had infiltrated through the enemy lines.

During the first week of January most of the time was spent in reorganizing the various remaining units of our Division and as a result the majority of casualties treated at the 106th Division Clearing Station were non-battle casualties with a majority of these being trench foot and frostbite and likewise many cases of Nasopharyngitis. During this week icthyol ointment was used in some of the cases of frostbite of the feet. The results were not very satisfactory and it was decided to return to the original plan of treatment, namely, using rest and elevation of the feet.

In the period from the 1st January to the 10 January 1945 our Company was completely equipped as to individual personnel and organizational equipment and we were prepared to serve in a more forward echelon. Most of the enlisted personnel had needed almost complete re-equipping especially the 1st Platoon who had through necessity left most of their personal and organizational equipment at LaRoche, Belgium on 20 December 1944. After about a week of comparative inactivity treating mostly foot cases and upper respiratory cases (Nasopharyngitis) the majority of the Officers and enlisted personnel were anxious to get back to work and return to action again as we were at Vielsalm and Werbomont, Belgium in December l944.

Our 424th Inf Regt was to be sent back into the line again and therefore a reconnaissance was made to find a site for a Clearing Station. A site was located which was not very desirable at Niveze, Belgium near Spa, Belgium. The Clearing Station was located in a building which was not large enough but due to the concentration of troops in this area it was necessary to make use of it regardless.

Resume of Activities from 1st January to 30 January 1945:

1 January 1945 we treated 59 cases, transferred 8 cases, and returned to duty 9 cases.

2 January 1945 we treated 71 cases, transferred 11 cases, and returned to duty 3 cases. Captain Jack H. Kamholz was reassigned to our Company while 1st Lt. Monroe E. Neumann was transferred to Company “B” 331 Medical Battalion and Tec 5 Nicos George was transferred to Hq Detachment per Special Order #1 Hq 331 Medical Battalion dated 1 Jan 45. Also on this day Tec 4 Jack Reasor and Tec 5 Louis A. Schaum Jr. were reduced to the grade of private without prejudice while Tec 4 Shimko was promoted to the rank of S/Sgt. Tec 4 Essary to Sgt and the following Tec 5's promoted to Tec 4, Richter, Whayne Jr, Bauguess, and Eaton, the following Pfc’s were promoted to Tec 5, Russell, Null, Yochum, Kroboth and Lawson. Our strength was now 12 officers of which 9 were Captains and 3 1st Lt and now 91 EM.
 

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3 January 1945 we treated 86 cases, transferred 16 cases and returned to duty 14 cases.

14 January 1945 we treated 83 cases, transferred 8 cases and returned to duty 22 cases.

5 January 1945 we treated 57 cases, transferred 5 cases and returned to duty 214 cases.

6 January 1945 we treated 141 cases, transferred 0 cases and returned to duty 12 cases.

7 January 1945 we treated 44 eases, transferred 3 cases and returned to duty 6 cases.

8 January 1945 we treated 51 cases, transferred 1 case and returned to duty 9 cases. On this date Pvt Charles J. Zalutsky, ASN xxxxxxxx, was placed on Detached Service as a medical aid-man with the 424th Inf Regt.

9 January 1945 we treated 46 eases, transferred 2 cases and returned to duty 8 cases.

On the 10 January 1945 the 1st Platoon of our Company departed from Esneux, Belgium via motor convoy and arrived at Niveze, Belgium K705125 at 1530 hours. The distance traveled was 21 miles. The Clearing Station was set-up and opened at 1700 hours. This was mainly an administrative move and the casualties received here were light, consisting mainly of foot cases and respiratory diseases (Nasopharyngitis). On this day we treated 37 cases, transferred 3 cases and returned to duty 6 cases. The Clearing Station at Esneux, Belgium was closed at 1700 hours.

On the 11 January 1945 the 2nd Platoon departed from Esneux, Belgium at 0900 hours, via motor convoy and rejoined the 1st Platoon at Niveze at 1130 hours. The 2nd Platoon was kept in reserve and prepared to move at any time while the 1st Platoon operated the Station. The tactical situation had changed and we were preparing to attack. The 1st Platoon operated the station at Niveze from 1530 hours 10 January 1945 until 1600 hours 13 January 1945.

On the 13 January 1945 2nd Platoon departed at 1300 hours via motor convoy from Niveze and arrived at Cour [Coo], Belgium K665053 at 1400 hours. They established and opened a Clearing Station in the Provincial Sanatorium (Tuberculosis sanatorium for Belgian Civilians). This was quite a large building and was very suitable for a Clearing Station. The 1st Platoon closed the Clearing Station at 1600 hours 13 January 1916 and rejoined the 2nd Platoon at 1630. The distance traveled was six miles.

The 424th Inf Regt was sent into combat on the 11 January 1945 and were attacking and gaining much ground. Therefore during the night of 11 January we began to receive but very few casualties and these were still mostly non-battle casualties. The next day 12 January 1945 was still light and mostly non-battle casualties. However, on the 13 January 1945 in our new location at Cour, Belgium we were nearer the front and much better prepared to receive battle casualties.

Our troops composed of the 424th Inf Regt, 81st Eng (C) Bn, and 517th Parachute Infantry were now attacking on the south and east of Stavelot, Belgium. Our casualties were mostly battle casualties and were quite heavy. Due to the efficient evacuation of patients by First Army Ambulances in spite of very icy roads we were able to clear these patients without creating a bottleneck. Several severe chest wounds were treated and evacuated. One of these was a sucking wound of the chest with probable spinal cord injury and also having a compound fracture of the femur.
 

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The majority of the wounds seen were due to Artillery and Mortar fire. Also, many of our patients had been exposed to zero weather for several hours before receiving initial First-Aid Treatment but in spite of this few were in shock. Nine units of Plasma were used without any untoward reaction. No single case needed more than 2 Units. At about 1800 hours due to the hazardous and icy condition of the roads one of the 1st Army Ambulances turned over about 100 yards from the station with 5 of our patients whom we had just treated and evacuated. Fortunately none of these patients wounds were aggravated due to this accident.

Casualties were not as heavy on the 14 January 1945 as they had been on the previous day but we had many admissions because of frostbite, mostly feet cases, and some Nasopharyngitis. The battle casualties were due to Artillery, rifle, and mines. The German forces were steadily retreating but were leaving anti-personnel mines behind them causing much delay to our troops. For several days we continued to receive heavy casualties moat of them though were frostbitten feet, some exhaustion cases, and injuries due to mines.

Resume of Activities for the period from 11 January 1945 to 20 January 1945:

11 January 1945 we treated 39 cases, transferred 14 cases, and returned to duty 2 cases.

12 January 1945 we treated 62 cases, transferred 114 cases, and returned to duty 12 cases.

13 January 1945 we treated 186 cases, transferred 107 cases, and returned to duty 11 cases.

14 January 1945 we treated 180 cases, transferred 61 cases, and returned to duty 3 cases. On this date Sgt Ralph R. Brown, xxxxxxxx, and Pvt William J. Barry who had been transferred in December 1944 to Evacuation Hospitals due to Nasopharyngitis were reassigned. Our strength was now 12 Officers and 93 enlisted personnel.

15 January 1945 we treated 249 cases, transferred 814 cases and returned to duty 12 cases. On this date Pfc Oliver B. Winkler, xxxxxxxx, was placed on Detached Service with Division Headquarters (G-2). His job was to work in public relations office.

16 January 1945 we treated 268 cases, transferred 66 cases, and returned to duty 28 cases.

17 January 1945 we treated 289 cases, transferred 78 cases, and returned to duty 31 cases. On this day Sgt Vincent J. Mustacchio, xxxxxxxx, was transferred to the 128th Evacuation Hospital with the following diagnosis: NBC Urticaria, mod, SV, Generalized, type and cause undetermined, S, LOD Yes. Our personnel strength was therefore 12 Officers and 92 Enlisted Men of which two of these were on Detached Service.

18 January 1945 we treated 241 cases, transferred 49 cases, and returned to duty 30 cases. On the 17 January 1945 the Collecting Company “A” 331st Medical Battalion had become a holding company working in conjunction with the Clearing Station and was located at our former station in Niveze, Belgium. They were able to hold approximately 90 to 100 patients and treat them. We sent them mostly foot cases and enteritis and a few respiratory cases. By doing this we were able to hold patients until they could be returned to duty otherwise we would have been forced to evacuate them and they would have been lost to the 106th Division. During this procedure we had at Company “A” at one time as high as 90 patients.

18 January 1945 Tec 5 Cleveland W. Mitchell, xxxxxxxx, was transferred to the 96th Evacuation Hospital with the following diagnosis: NBC Bronchitis, cat, ac, cause undet., LOD Yes. Our enlisted Personnel was now 91 EM of which two were still on detached service.
 

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19 January 1945 we treated 198 cases, transferred 8 cases, and returned to duty 12 cases. Captain Elmer W. Lewis was put on detached service with Hq Special Troops in the forward echelon. Captain Lewis was platoon leader of the 1st Platoon. In his absence Captain George M. Osborne was made platoon leader.

20 January 1945 we treated 210 cases, transferred 21 cases, and returned to duty 20 cases.

21 January 1945 we treated 218 cases, transferred 19 cases, and returned to duty 26 cases.

22 January 1945 we treated 215 cases, transferred 17 cases, and returned to duty 26 cases.

23 January 1945 we treated 195 cases, transferred 10 cases, and returned to duty 26 cases.

On the 24 January 1945 at 0930 hours the 1st Platoon departed via motor convoy for our former location at the Chateau, at Esneux, Belgium K6605. A previous reconnaissance had been made to the rear to see if this chateau was still available before the move was made. We had personal knowledge of this location as we had previously operated our Clearing station from 28 December 1944 until 10 January 1945 and found it very satisfactory.

The move was made from the Provincial Sanatorium because the First Army had priority on the building for one of their medical installations and we were not supporting any front line troops at this time. Our 424th Inf Regt was on the line near Diedenberg, Belgium in the vicinity of St. Vith but they were being evacuated through the 7th Armored Division Clearing Station.

The 2nd Platoon remained at the Sanatorioum Provincial until 25 January 1945 at 1000 hours when they departed via motor convoy from Cour for Esneux, Belgium.  The patients had been transported to Esneux, on the 24 January by Ambulance convoy. Traveling conditions were very hazardous due to icy roads but all, vehicles reached their destination without accident. The distance traveled was 26 miles.

The only patients we were receiving while at Esneux, Belgium were those from the rear echelon and most were non-battle casualties. The majority of our cases during the next week were suffering from either frostbite and nasopharyngitis.

Shortly after midnight on 26 January 1945 a near calamity hit our company. Members of the 1st Platoon were awakened by smoke filling the room in which they were sleeping. They discovered that due to an overheated stove a fire had developed in the floor and was spreading rapidly between the rafters. Members of the 1st Platoon quickly got the fire under control by chopping holes in the floor and dealing with the fire directly. Pvt Bowers and Tec 4 Swift showed unusual skill in fighting the fire. Their were no casualties and none of the patients were in any great danger.

The following is a resume of the Activities of the Company from 24 Jan - 31 Jan 1945:

24 January 1945 we treated 167 cases, transferred 3 cases and returned to duty 24 cases.

25 January 1945 we treated 167 cases, transferred 21 cases, and returned to duty 42 cases.

26 January 1945 we treated 84 cases, transferred 6 cases, and returned to duty 30 cases. On this date Pvt Domingo P. Perez, xxxxxxxx, was evacuated to the 45th Evac. Hosp. with the following diagnosis: NBC Bronchitis, ac, cat, LOD Yes. This loss brought our enlisted personnel to 90 EM.
 

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27 January 1945 we treated 56 cases, transferred 2 cases, and returned to duty 1 case. Lt. Krynski went to LaRoche, Belgium on this day to try to locate some of the equipment left there on the 20 December l944 when it was necessary to make a hasty withdrawal due to the advance of the German Forces. However, it was a fruitless search. And the disposition of all medical equipment, Company records and personal equipment can not be determined whether it was captured by the Germans or whether the 7th Armored Division who occupied this city after our withdrawal managed to collect it.

28 January 1945 we treated 54 cases, transferred 1 case, and returned to duty 9 cases. Tec 4 Whayne was transferred to the 5th Evacuation Hospital in grade per Par 5 SO #6 Hq 1st U. S. Army dated 6 January 1945. Our enlisted personnel was now as low as 89 EM. Also Pvt Charles J. Zalutsky, xxxxxxxx, on DS 424th Infantry Regt was hospitalized in the 7th Armd Div Clr Sta with the following diagnosis: LIA BC Frostbite both ft, S, LOD Yes. General Perrin visited the Clearing Station this date, and conferred honors on Officers and EM from Hq & Hq Det and Company “C” 331 Med Bn.

29 January 1945 we treated 68 cases, transferred 14 cases and returned to duty 11 cases.

30 January 1945 we treated 72 cases, transferred 9 cases and returned to duty 16 cases. Pvt Joseph R. DeLizio, xxxxxxxx, was assigned to our company from the 424th Infantry Regt per Par 1, SO #9 Hq 331 Med Bn this raised our enlisted personnel to 90 EM. Tec 5 Michael M. Padjen, xxxxxxxx, was promoted to the grade of Tec 4 and Pvt Wiles, xxxxxxxx, was promoted to the grade of Tec 5.

31 January we treated 66 cases, transferred 5 cases, and returned to duty 14 cases from all units served. Pvt Charles J. Zalutsky, xxxxxxxx, was relieved of DS and returned to duty. Pvt William J. Barry, xxxxxxx, was transferred to Company “B” 331 Medical Battalion and Tec 4 Alexander W. Krupka, xxxxxxxx, was relieved of DS with us and returned to Company “B” per SO #11 Hq 331 Medical Battalion. On the last day of the month our Officer Personnel was Captain Joseph W. Grosh, MC, Commanding and consisted of 9 Captains (7 MC and 2 DC) and 3 1st Lieutenants, of which one was MAC (1st Lt. Hunt, Ass’t Co. Cmdr). Our enlisted personnel was 89 EM with S/Sgt Walter L. Hearn acting 1st Sgt.

CENSUS:  3,835 Treatments, 1,145 Admissions, 499 Duty, 546 Transferred, 584 BC, 561 Non-Battle Casualties, remaining in the station on this date (31 Jan 1945) 147 cases.