February 23
Western Front, Germany
The US First and Ninth Armies launch Operation Grenade, the crossing of the Roer River, and head to the Rhine. Preceded by a barrage from over 1000 guns, four infantry divisions cross the river in the face of sporadic resistance. German reserves have been committed to halt Operation Veritable farther north. By the end of the day, 28 infantry battalions have crossed the river.

Pacific, Iwo Jima
US Marines raise the American flag on the summit of Mount Suribachi in the south of the island. The US Marines now have to turn north to clear the rest of the island.

February 25
Pacific, Iwo Jima
As the fighting on Iwo Jima becomes more intense, the US 3rd Marine Division is committed to the battle.

February 28
Politics, Saudi Arabia
Following the example of Syria on the 26th, Saudi Arabia declares war on Germany. The rush to join the Allies in part stems from the announcement that only those states that declare war before March 1 will be invited to a conference in San Francisco on the proposed postwar United Nations.

Western Front, Germany
The US First Army begins its drive to the Rhine River, spearheaded by the VII Corps.

Pacific, Philippines
A regiment of the US 41st Division captures the island of Palawan.

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