Falaise Pocket 1944 • Contemporary Era
Discovering the battle
12–21 August 1944 French victory

Falaise Pocket

Battle of Normandy (Second World War) · Between Trun, Argentan, Vimoutiers, and Chambois, Normandy, France

Summary

The Falaise-Chambois pocket (Falaise-Argentan for Anglo-Saxons) was the setting for the final operation of the Battle of Normandy in the Second World War. It took place from 12 to 21 August 1944 in an area between Trun, Argentan, Vimoutiers, and Chambois, ending near Falaise. It was a strategic Allied victory.

Historical context

After Operation Cobra (25 July) and the Avranches breakthrough (1 August), Bradley and Montgomery decided to converge their armies on the Falaise–Chambois area to envelop Army Group B. Patton's Third Army advanced east while Anglo-Canadians pushed south (Bluecoat).

Tactics

From 12 to 21 August 1944 the Allies closed a pocket between Trun, Argentan, Vimoutiers, and Chambois. The Polish 1st Armored Division held Hill 262 (Mont Ormel) at the pocket's mouth. German counter-attacks opened an escape corridor before final closure on 21 August.

Consequences

Strategic victory destroying most of Army Group B west of the Seine and opening the road to Paris. A significant portion of German troops nevertheless escaped complete encirclement by abandoning heavy equipment.

Location

Place : Between Trun, Argentan, Vimoutiers, and Chambois, Normandy, France
Coordinates : 48.89277778°N, 0.19194444°W

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