746th Tank Battalion

The 746th Tank Battalion was an independent tank battalion of the U.S. Army, activated as part of the creation of armored units intended to directly support infantry divisions on the Western Front. After training in the United States, the battalion was deployed to Europe in 1944 to participate in World War II operations on the Western Front.

The battalion took part in combat in France after the Normandy landings. It was engaged in providing armored support to U.S. infantry divisions during the exploitation of the Normandy breakthrough, in the bocage, and in combat to secure roads and strategic points. Its tank units were employed in operations to reduce German fortified positions and protect the flanks of the advancing forces.

In late summer and fall 1944, the 746th Tank Battalion participated in the advance through northern and eastern France, crossing the Seine and advancing toward the Moselle and Lorraine, supporting infantry divisions in combat to reduce German pockets and capture fortified towns.

During the winter of 1944-1945, the battalion was engaged in the Battle of the Bulge, providing armored support to American forces during counterattacks aimed at repelling the German offensive. It participated in missions to protect advance routes and provide direct support to the infantry in difficult winter conditions.

In 1945, the 746th Tank Battalion took part in the final offensive in Germany. It was engaged in operations in the Rhineland, crossed the Rhine, and then advanced into central Germany, supporting infantry divisions in capturing cities, reducing pockets of resistance, and taking prisoners until the German surrender in May 1945. After the fighting ended, it was employed in security and control missions before being deactivated.

The 746th Tank Battalion's service record includes campaign credits for Normandy, Northern France, Lorraine, Ardennes-Alsace, Rhineland, and Central Europe. Its involvement was part of the ongoing support provided by independent tank battalions to American infantry forces from Normandy to central Germany.