Breaking the Harlange Pocket
6th U.S. Cavalry-1945
by
Don Stivers
On the night of 8, January 1945, the U.S. Army's 6th Calvary Group initiated action that would culminate in the award of the Distinguished Unit Citation.
After a short mission briefing, the Group assumed aggressive patrol of a 5,000-yard perimeter with orders to thwart any attempts by the enemy to escape or withdraw. By dawn of the next morning, however, it was apparent that the Germans had so organized the ground it would have been impossible for additional U.S. Infantry regiments to advance without sustaining heavy casualties. Of it's own initiative, and well beyoud mission requirements, the 6th Cavalry Group nonetheless engaged the enemy on its own.
The bloody assault continued throughout the day and into the night of January 9. Despite bitter cold and snow, the brave men of the 6th were slowed only by treacherous minefields and blown bridges in the vicinity of Beltrange.
Their combat efficiency, fighting spirit and aggressive fortitude made possible the speedy liberation of the towns of Lutremange, Watrange and Tarchamps, and the surrounding zone assigned to the 6th Cavalry Group was quickly cleared.
Having completed their mission, the Group Commander requested, and was granted, permission for further advance. True to their form, The group would push far beyond their original objective. In the days to follow, the 6th would play a pivotal role in the capture and surrender of Sonlez, thereby breaking the back of German resistance in the Harlange Pocket that had forestalled the advance of the Corps for almost two weeks.
This outstanding action of the 6th Cavalry Group finely illustrates the selfless acts of heroism and bravery known only to the hearts of those committed to the ideals of democracy and freedom.

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