Sunday, April 15, 1945
SHAEF Headquarters, Rheims, France
1600 hours
Eisenhower had spent the last hour digesting the contents and implications of the orders he had just received.
"Proceed to Berlin at all deliberate speed. In light of weakening German resistance, Allied forces are to make all haste to Berlin at once. Your orders are now to secure as much of Germany east of the Elbe as possible, and secure Berlin itself. Take care to inform Soviet forces of your intentions. Do not engage them unless in self-defense. Concentrate your attack on the Magdeburg-to-Berlin Axis. The Soviets are being informed of our intentions through Proper channels.
Good luck,
Marshall"
A ragged cheer went up from the assembled staff officers.