On the remaining wall of the old church, below the 3rd Division plaque.  Plaque A plexiglass plaque in French, German, and English, recounting the liberation of the town. 

1940-1944/45  The Annexation and Occupation

In a tense diplomatic climate, the crossing of the Poland border by the Germans on September 1, 1939, started the Second World War.  The fear of a German invasion is confirmed in May, 1940.  One month later, Alsace was annexed to the 3^rd Reich; this was the start of four long years of occupation that will not spare Ostheim.

December 5, 1944 – January 23, 1945  The Long Battle for the Liberation of Ostheim

Hard climactic conditions and supply problems slow down the progression of the Allies who cross the Vosges with many difficulties.  The liberation of the village by the American forces is awaited since autumn 1944. On December 5, 1944, troops of the 143^rd Regiment of the 36^th US Infantry Division, led by Major General John E. Dahlquist released Ricquewihr, Beblenheim, and the west bank of Ostheim.  The units of the 716^th German Volksgrenadier Infantry Division (VGD) withdraw and moved back to Schoppenwihr.   The 708^th VGD based on the east bank of the river Fecht is forced to dynamite the bridges to block the American progression.  Ostheim, separated by two front lines on the river Fecht, suffered assault on both sides during 60 days.  The Germans evacuate the population of the East bank to Colmar on December 20, 1944.  The 25, the Americans evacuate the civilians on the west bank, moving them to Ribauville.  Ostheim, strategic point of the “Colmar Pocket” becomes the site of a merciless battle.  Quarter after quarter, the village is bombed by the artillery of both belligerents.  The battles of the “Colmar Pocket” are amongst the roughest in Alsace. 

On January 22/34, 1945, the assault by the 7^th Infantry Regiment from the 3^rd US Infantry Division, led by General John W. O ‘Daniel forced finally the Germans to withdraw. At the liberation on January 23, 1945, Ostheim was reduced to ruins.  The battle for the Colmar Pocket ceased on February 9, 1945.