The Third Corps took Aincreville, Doulcon, and
Andevanne, and the Fifth Corps took Landres et St. Georges and pressed
through successive lines of resistance to Bayonville and Chennery. On
the 2d the First Corps joined in the movement, which now became an
impetuous onslaught that could not be stayed.
[Sidenote: Aid of large caliber guns.]
[Sidenote: The enemy's line of communications cut.]
On the 3d advance troops surged forward in pursuit, some by motor
trucks, while the artillery pressed along the country roads close
behind. The First Corps reached Authe and Chatillon-sur-Bar, the Fifth
Corps, Fosse and Nouart, and the Third Corps Halles, penetrating the
enemy's line to a depth of 12 miles. Our large caliber guns had advanced
and were skillfully brought into position to fire upon the important
lines at Montmedy, Longuyon, and Conflans. Our Third Corps crossed the
Meuse on the 5th and the other corps, in the full confidence that the
day was theirs, eagerly cleared the way of machine guns as they swept
northward, maintaining complete coordination throughout. On the 6th, a
division of the First Corps reached a point on the Meuse opposite Sedan,
25 miles from our line of departure. The strategical goal which was our
highest hope was gained. We had cut the enemy's main line of
communications, and nothing but surrender or an armistice could save his
army from complete disaster.
[Sidenote: Prisoners and guns taken.]
[Sidenote: Divisions long in battle line.
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