Warns Civilians To Stay West Of Rhine

Northern Advocate, 5 March 1945, Page 4

Warns Civilians To Stay West Of Rhine

LONDON, March 3. German civilians west of the Rhine have been warned against trying to cross to the east in special instructions from General Eisenhower, broadcast by the Luxemburg radio. General Eisenhower stated: “There is no security east of the Rhine because the Ruhr is under very heavy artillery and aerial bombardment. “Those who live in areas where the German High Command is trying to hold bridgeheads west of the Rhine with the object of safeguarding the German retreat, must persuade German soldiers to lay down their arms. Otherwise you will be victims of a senseless blood bath, because Allied troops will attack the bridgeheads with concentrated fire power as long as the German troops continue to fight.” The Allies’ chances of forcing a quick passage of the Rhine largely depends on the damage they can inflict on the retreating enemy and the speed with which they can take advantage of his present disorganisation, says “The Times.”

The weather is not likely to prevent the use of airborne troops if that is intended, adds “The Times,” but it must be remembered that airborne troops cannot prudently be dropped beyond an obstacle like the Rhine unless there is reasonable certainty that heavily-armed and equipped troops can be ferried across to support them with the minimum delay. That must be a matter for nice judgment and a proper blending of caution and daring.