Bastogne: The Story of the First Eight Days - US Army Center Of ...

154 BASTOGNB
left Bank of the high ground where Colonel Allen had determined
to make his stand. Company A moved to the rear in reserve.
However, Company C's losses were such that Company A
had to come back forward again and take Company C's place in
the line. Fortunately, the enemy did not press the attack.
Allen told his men, "This is our last withdrawal. Live or die
-this is it."
fie had spoken correctly; the battalion was never pushed from
that ground though it was still to face its worst ordeal. lII
The next day was quiet. The men cleaned their weapons and
waited for Christmas Eve.