[Broncazonk]

An unresolved question (for me) is the timing of Operation Bodenplatte in relation to the Ardennes Offensive.

A Timeline of the Ardennes Offensive

16–18 December 1944: Extreme Optimism

The Ardennes offensive began on the morning of 16 December, 1944.

German commanders were encouraged because: total surprise had been achieved, American lines were penetrated, many prisoners were being taken.

At this stage most senior German commanders believed the operation had a chance.

19–20 December: Only three days later: the first serious doubts emerge

By 19 December, several realities were becoming apparent: road congestion was severe, fuel consumption was exceeding expectations, key bridges had not been seized on schedule, and the advance was slowing.

Officers at the front began expressing concern. However, "trouble" is not the same as "failure." Many still thought success was possible.

21–23 December: The weather breaks

This was probably the most important turning point. The German plan depended heavily on bad weather limiting Allied air power.

Beginning around 23 December: the weather improved, Allied tactical aircraft returned in force, Allied fighter-bombers began attacking roads, bridges, and supply columns.

German commanders immediately recognized this as a major problem.

So what happened to Operation Bodenplatte? Where did that go?

The plan from the very beginning was to support the Ardennes offensive during the initial, critical stage. It was supposed to be connected to the German offensive schedule and was expected to occur much closer to the opening phase of the Ardennes campaign. It was NEVER envisioned as a symbolic New Year's Day attack.

The operation was tentatively scheduled several times and postponed repeatedly due to...weather conditions? Yet, the Allies began flying thousands of missions on 23 December.

24–25 December: Operational crisis

By Christmas: fuel shortages were becoming critical, the Meuse River remained distant, Antwerp was effectively unattainable, American resistance was stiffening.

At this point German corps commanders believed the original objective was no longer achievable.

Still no Bodenplatte.

26 December: Bastogne relieved

The offensive was in serious trouble on this day.

On 26 December: elements of the U.S. 4th Armored Division reached Bastogne, the encirclement was broken, German hopes of eliminating the Bastogne salient evaporated.

The Germans understood the significance immediately. Bastogne sat astride critical road networks needed for further advance.

And still no Bodenplatte.

28 December: Rundstedt and Model concede

On 28 December 1944: Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt and Field Marshal Walter Model met with Hitler. Both argued that the offensive should be curtailed and that the original objectives could no longer be reached. The commanders responsible for executing the operation were essentially admitting that the operational concept had failed.

The Fuhrer refused to accept this conclusion.

1 January 1945: Bodenplatte finally occurs

When Bodenplatte flew: the Ardennes Offensive had long since failed.

The Allies were in the air on the 23rd. The Germans didn't fly until 10-days later.

What the Hell?

Bronc