SPECIAL MESSAGE
from the
ARMY COMMANDER
TO ALL RANKS
5 CORPS

You have played a decisive part in this great Eighth Army offensive. You have driven the enemy North of the River Po in disorder. You have all shown a splendid determination and fighting spirit, and a fine endurance in two-and-a-half weeks of continuous battle. Your attack across the River Seno, so carefully prepared, succeeded so well that the enemy was unable to stand on the River Santerno. After capturing bridgeheads over this river, you exploited rapidly Northwards,, and in combination with outflanking operations executed with great skill along the shores of Lake Comacchio, you succeeded in forcing the formidable Argenta position. The enemy was protected by extensive floods on both flanks, and by deep minefields covering the gaps: but you attacked hhu by day and by night, and broke out into the more open country towards Ferrara. This success was decisive for the whole plan of operations of 15 Army Group.

Your subsequent determined and relentless advance to the River Po both East and West of Ferrara, drove the enemy back over the river, with heavy losses in tanks, guns, M.T. and equipment. Only remnants of his fighting Units succeeded in escaping, and our aim to destroy the enemy South of the river has been largely successful.

All Arms have played an equally important part in this great victory. Good leadership has resulted in the close co-operation between the infantry, tanks, artillery and engineers, which is the secret of success.

I send my warmest congratulations to every man in 5 Corps. I know that you will continue a relentless pursuit to finish off the enemy and to prevent him organising on any further defensive line.

(Signed) R.L/McCreery
Lieut.- General, G.O.C., Eighth Army.
Main H.Q., Eighth Army.
26th April 1945

Reproduced from the original that is on file.

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