US troops crossing the Rhine near the city of Worms/Rhineland-Palatinate. By that time, March 1945, there was no connected german front of defence anymore in the west.

Rhine crossing at Worms

An american soldier of VIIth US Corps abides at a statue of the Virgin Mother in Cologne, March 1945. In the background the cathedral of Cologne can be seen.

G.I. in Cologne, March 1945

Jülich/Western Germany. After the capture of the town american troops of the 29th US Infantery Division (&quot;Blue &amp; Grey&quot;) attached a board on the &quot;Hexenturm&quot; (Witch Tower, the town's landmark), saying:&quot;This is Julich, Germany. Sorry it is so messed up but we were in a hurry! 29th Infantry Division&quot;