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The 702nd Tank Battalion A.G.O. records best describe the action of the attack launched by the 80th Division, on December 4:

"On the 4th, the 318th Infantry, reinforced with 'A' and 'B' Companies, had the mission of resuming the Division attack and capturing the limited objectives of Farbersviller, Machern, Thedingen and the high ground to their immediate northeast.  In the ensuing engagement, Company 'B' assaulted on the left (northwest) with the First Battalion, 318th .

Limited objectives for this assault were Farbersviller and Kochern.  'A' Company, with the Second Battalion attacked on the right (south to northeast) with Thedingen and the high ground to its north to be taken.  This high ground was held by elements of the 17th SS Panzer Grenadier Division, which had shown a recent return to life in stopping the onward surge of the 80th Division at Farbersviller on November 30.  This division had just received 1,000 replacements from Prague.

Troops Advance Across The Frozen Tundra

The infantry pushed off at 7:00 A.M., but the tanks needed bridges across the creek at Farbersviller before they could be used effectively.  Lt. Nelson's 3rd Platoon in 'B' Company did participate in the capture of Farbersviller, and had taken the town by 9:00 A.M.  Both companies had crossed the river at 10:20 and immediately embarked on their supporting roles.  At 11:00 A.M., 'A' Company was reported in Thedingen, whereas 'B' Company tanks reached Kochern at 2:30.

While on a reconnaissance for a supporting position for 'A' Company  tanks on the hill above Thedingen, Captain McDermott was wounded seriously by mortar fire and Lt. Gifford assumed command of the company.  On taking all assigned objectives, the companies took up a defensive position; 'A' at Thedingen and 'B' at Kochern.  During the action, 135 prisoners were taken and three A.T. guns were destroyed.  One Mark V tank was driven off.  None of our tanks were damaged or knocked out.

During the night, 'B' Company had tanks deployed as roadblocks, since the situation was very unstable in their areas.  'B' Company moved to Thedingen the next day and 'A' Company returned to Machern."