Marching Orders: The Untold Story of How the American Breaking of the Japanese Secret Codes Led to the Defeat of Nazi Germany and Japan

by Bruce Lee

“Mediterranean Coast East of the Rhone [River]. It is possible that along the coast east of the Rhone the enemy will confine their attempts to commando landings——[several words missing]. However, if the enemy should occupy Marseille and Toulon, they would gain a marked political advantage. In view of the possibility that the Allies may try to land at the mouth of the Rhone and capture Marseille, the Germans are now making every effort to strengthen defenses in that area. In both Marseille and Toulon, they are rushing work to strengthen installations built by the French army, and at Marseille a submarine base is being constructed. “In addition, fortifications and other defense installations have been built wherever necessary along the entire coast from Menton to Marseille. Tank barriers of reinforced concrete have been constructed throughout that area, and at such points as Nice, St.-Raphaël and Antibes, where the enemy is expected to attempt landings, strong defense works have been constructed. Preparations are also being made for an extensive defense in depth, utilizing topography and natural positions. At all important communications points antiaircraft emplacements are being located.”