By late January 1945, the German Army in the west faced dire straits following the failure of Hitler’s last major offensive in the Ardennes. The Allies were pushing the Germans back across France, inching closer to the borders of the increasingly beleaguered Third Reich. The Nazis maintained a crucial foothold in France, known as the Colmar Pocket, with vital bridges across the Rhine. Desperate to retain this position, they launched intense counterattacks to drive the Americans back.
On January 26, 1945, the Colmar Pocket became the site of one of the most remarkable solo defenses in military history, led by Lieutenant Audie Murphy.
This brief video will utilize cutting-edge technology, on-ground footage, veteran accounts, and archival material to recount his extraordinary stand.
By early 1945, Audie Murphy was already a notable figure among American forces, though his legend seemed unlikely. Born in rural Texas in 1925 to a poor farming family, Murphy was small in stature. When he enlisted underage in June 1942, his medical exam noted his height at just 5 feet 4 inches and his weight at 112 pounds.
Nicknamed "Baby" during training due to his youthful appearance, Murphy’s physical size contrasted sharply with his burgeoning reputation.
Landing in North Africa in February 1943, Murphy joined Company B of the 15th Infantry Regiment and quickly earned recognition for his sharp shooting and quick thinking. His first combat experience came in July 1943 during the invasion of Sicily. Over the following years, Murphy's bravery became legendary. He charged enemy positions, knocked out machine gun nests, and earned several commendations, including the Bronze Star and the Distinguished Service Cross.
Despite frequent injuries, including a severe sniper wound and gangrene, Murphy repeatedly returned to the battlefield.
By January 1945, Second Lieutenant Murphy, then just 19 years old, and the men of Company B, 15th Infantry Regiment, found themselves entrenched in the Colmar Pocket. The company, severely reduced from over 100 to just 40 men, faced a significant German counterattack. The area was poorly suited for defense; the ground was frozen solid, making it nearly impossible to dig in, and the men had to keep moving to avoid frostbite.
The nearest support was about a mile away, awaiting reinforcements.
At around 2 PM on January 26, the German offensive began with six Panther tanks emerging from the village of Holtzhere, accompanied by 250 infantrymen camouflaged in white snow gear. The Germans advanced under heavy artillery fire, posing a grave threat to Murphy’s already depleted forces. Murphy ordered his men to establish a secondary defensive line in the woods for better protection and attempted to call in artillery support to cover their retreat.
As the situation deteriorated, the rear Wolverine tank destroyer was hit, killing its crew and forcing them to abandon it. The second Wolverine, positioned more precariously, continued to fight back but eventually became immobilized. With no way to extract it, Murphy's remaining men faced the brunt of the German assault alone.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Murphy stayed at his command post, directing artillery fire and maintaining communication. As the German tanks closed in, he remained exposed but resolute, even climbing onto the burning tank destroyer to man a .
50 caliber machine gun. His actions were crucial in covering his company’s withdrawal, even as he came under relentless fire.
Murphy's bravery was evident as he continued firing until his ammunition was exhausted, then took cover behind the burning tank destroyer. Artillery observer Lieutenant Weening, who witnessed Murphy's valor, described his actions as extraordinarily courageous. Despite the severe danger, Murphy's efforts helped hold back the German advance and enabled his men to retreat to safety.
The bravery and heroism displayed by Lieutenant Audie Murphy in the Colmar Pocket exemplify his remarkable military career and remain a powerful testament to his extraordinary courage under fire. The details of his stand, as seen through modern technology and historical accounts, continue to inspire and honor his legacy.
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