DIVISION INFORMATION BULLETIN
2ND DIVISION Dec. 1, 1918.
Proclamation to the German People by General Pershing
|
|
To the Inhabitants:
The army of the United States of America operating in conjunction with the
authorities of the Allied powers is taking possession of and will garrison: in District
of Trier, Provins Rhein-Preussen, the entire circuits of Daun, Prum, Bitburg, Wittlich,
Bernkeshal, Trier (city) and Trier (vicinity); in district of Coblenz, Provins
Rhein-Preussen, the entire circuits of Ademan, Ahrweiler, Coblenz (city), Coblenz
(vicinity), Cochem Mayen, Nemweid, St. Gear, Simmern, and Zeil, and the entire circuits
Altenkirchen, with the exception of the parts situated on the eastern bank of the Rhein
and further than 30 kilometers from the eastern end of the Coblenz Rhein bridge, and in
District Wiesbaden, Provins, Hessen-Nassau, the entire circuits of St. Goarshausen,
Unherlahn and Unterwesterwald, with the exception of the parts of the last three
circuits, which are situated further than 30 kilometers from the eastern end of the
Coblenz Rhine bridge.
The territory described above, and its inhabitants understand the military
orders and the authority of the American Army. These orders are explicit. An
unconditional obedience is demanded of everyone. Those who obey the laws, need not have
any fear. The American Army does not intend to wage war against the civilian
population. All who conduct themselves lawfully and peacefully and who respond to the
demands of the military authorities' orders can depend on protection of person, house,
goods and chattels, and Faith. All others will be brought to account with firmness and
severity.
The American Army will in their administration keep themselves strictly to the
international law, as well as, to the principles and usages in war as acknowledged by
the civilized world. On their side, the inhabitants must aviod to show hostile feelings
towards the American troops, either through word or deed nor must they place obstacles
in their way.
The population now have to continue their pursuits, again establish normal
conditions in their schools, churces, hospitals and charitable institutions and again
establish their national laws in their localities. In this, they will not be hindered,
but on the contrary supported and protected. In so far as their attitude and conduct
permits it, courts, officials and orgaizations, will continue under the supervision of
the American authorities and the present statutes and orders shall continue in force
undisturbed, in so far as they don't interfere with the rights and safety of the
American troops.
Every violation of the martial-law, every hostile act and every attempt at
violence, as well as diobedience of the orders and military authorities will be severely
dealt with.
The Commander in Chief
of the
American Expeditionary Forces,
John J. Pershing
|
|
