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       b. Drunkenness will not be tolerated. Penalties wilt be severe.

6. Never to associate with Germans.

       a.  We must bring home to the Germans that their support of Nazi leaders, their tolerance of racial hatreds and persecutions, and their unquestioning acceptance of the wanton aggressions on other nations, have earned for them the contempt and distrust of the civilized world. We must never forget that the German people support the Nazi principles.
       b. Contacts with Germans will be made only on official business. Immediate compliance with all official orders and instructions and surrender terms will be demanded of them and will be firmly enforced.
       c. American soldiers must not associate with Germans. Specifically, it is not permissible to shake hands with them, to visit their homes, to exchange gifts with —— to engage in games or sports with them, to attend their dances or social events, or to accompany them on the street or elsewhere. Particularly, ovoid ail discussion or argument with them. Give the Germans no chance to trick you into relaxing your guard.

7. To be fair but firm with Germans.

       a.  Experience has shown that Germans regard kindness as weakness. Every soldier must prove by his actions that the Americans are strong. This will be accomplished if every soldier treats the Germans with firmness and stern courtesy at all times.
       b.  Firmness must be tempered with a strict justice. Americans do not resort to Nazi gangster methods in dealing with any people. Remember, your fair but firm treatment of the German people will command the proper respect due a member of a conquering nation.

Headquarters
Twelfth Army Group
Europe

     I need not speak of your post accomplishments, other then to say you have reflected great credit j upon yourself and your command.

     We are now fighting on German soil, and we are in contact not only with the soldiers of our enemy but also civilians of Germany. As conquerors, we must now consider our relations with the people of Germany.
     It is imperative that you do not allow yourself to become friendly with the Germans but at the same time you must not persecute them. American soldiers can and have beaten German soldiers on the field of battle. It is equally important that you complete the victory over Nazi ideas.
     To guide you I have issued these special "battle" orders, they may appear to lead along a narrow path, but they are NECESSARY. You personally must prove to the German people that their acceptance of Nazi leadership is responsible for their defeat, and that it has earned for them the distrust of the rest of the world.


 

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