FIRST CANADIAN ARMY

To all soldiers serving in First Canadian Army

Our victories in the battle of the Schelde Estuary and opening of the port of ANTWERP mark a decisive step in the final defeat of Germany.  There should be no questioning of this fact.  It is testified by the following extracts from a captured order issued by the German Army Commander:-

“The defence of the approaches to ANTWERP represents a task which is decisive for the future conduct of the war…… After overrunning the Schelde fortifications, the English would finally be in a position to land great masses of material in a large and completely protected harbour with this material they might deliver a death blow at the north German plateau and at Berlin before the onset of winter………….And for this reason we must hold the Schelde fortification to the end.  The German people is watching us.  In this hour, the fortifications along the Schelde occupy a role which is decisive for the future of our people.”

The fighting has had to be conducted under the most appalling conditions of ground and weather.  Every soldier serving in this Army – whether he has fought along the banks of the Schelde or in driving the enemy from the north eastern approaches to ANTWERP – and every sailor and every airman who has supported us – can take a just and lasting pride in a great and decisive victory.

In the name of the Army Commander, I thank all commanders and troops for the loyal and able exertions which have contributed in such important successes.

G.G. Simonds

Lt Gen

4 Nov. 44

CFG-10

I MPS/11-2 (176)