When did the Saar Offensive begin and end?
The offensive began on the 7th of September 1939, and ended with a complete withdrawal of French troops on the 17th of October 1939. The operation started four days after France declared war on Germany.
Questions about Saar Offensive
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Which towns were captured by French forces during the Saar Offensive?
French troops captured about twelve towns including Gersheim, Medelsheim, Ihn, Niedergailbach, Bliesmengen, Ludweiler, Brenschelbach, Lauterbach, Niedaltdorf, Kleinblittersdorf, Auersmacher, and Sitterswald. These captures occurred without resistance during the initial push along the border near Saarbrücken.
Who ordered the halt of the Saar Offensive in September 1939?
General Maurice Gamelin ordered units back to starting positions on the 21st of September 1939. This decision stopped advancing French forces before they could reach the Siegfried Line.
How many French casualties occurred during the Saar Offensive?
About two thousand French casualties resulted from killed, wounded, or sick personnel during the operation. The conflict concluded with all divisions receiving orders to retreat to barracks along the Maginot Line.
Why did the German army lose soldiers during the counterattack on October 17?
German reports acknowledged losing one hundred ninety-six soldiers plus one hundred fourteen missing and three hundred fifty-six more wounded during the fighting. Eleven German aircraft were claimed shot down as of October 17 while French covering forces held territory.