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Starting below with the message from Maj. Gen.
Leroy Watson,
3AD Commander, Aug 1942 - Aug 1944:
"RESTRICTED"
HEADQUARTERS THIRD ARMORED DIVISION
APO 253
To the Officers and Men of the Third Armored Division:
You are about to join with other American and British soldiers
in the invasion of Europe. This is the greatest military operation
in the history of the world. Its success or failure will
determine the course of events for the next hundred years. You
are part of it and help to carry the responsibility for its success.
The immediate object of the invasion is to secure a base for
the attack on Germany itself.
We have the best weapons and soldiers in the world. As leaders
we must teach our men to kill without being killed. Cool common
sense and guts will do the job. Make every weapon work at the
right time. Teamwork will save many lives.
The Third Armored Division lands after other friendly troops.
It will operate as an interior division with friendly American
troops on our right and left. Friendly airborne troops may also
be encountered. Large numbers of other troops will back us up.
Friendly troops and Enemy Order of Battle will be announced
later.
On landing, clear the beaches rapidly and push forward to
assigned areas.
If captured, give only name, rank and serial number.
We shall see hard fighting, but I know we are fit and ready
for it. Remember teamwork -- hit the Germans with everything
you can. If a job seems too big for you, keep plugging away at
the enemy and "yell" for help -- mortars, artillery,
tanks or more troops.
Move fast -- fight hard -- and success is yours. Good luck
and God bless you.
Leroy H. Watson
Major General, US Army
Commanding
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