The lead reconnaissance company knew they were coming close. The right platoon, containing the 2nd and 4th Recce sections climbed the hill ahead of them to get a better look at their front. The BMP section went a little higher on the ridge while the BRDM section remained closer to the road. The left platoon continued along the road west of Altfeld until they began hearing spot reports from the other platoon. Then the platoon leader ordered the platoon into the high ground, heading for the woods for concealment.

The reconnaissance company spotted several enemy Abrams platoons and a few Bradley platoons in the hills to their front. They all began reporting these sightings back to higher headquarters.

Meanwhile A Company, 1st battalion, 91st Panzer regiment headed through the valley to their front prepared to attack into the enemy positions they had previously spotted. The first two platoon spotted the armor platoon at the far north end of the enemy position. They attempted to fire on the dug in position and missed all shots.

The Americans returned fire up and down the line with cannon fire and missiles. Although the range was still near the extreme range, the 4th Recce section was eliminated by a combination of mortar and cannon fire. Also, the 2nd platoon, A Company was fired upon by Bradleys using TOW missiles which destroyed three T-80 Main Battle Tanks in the middle of the priority road.

Oberstleutnant Heinrich was prepared to take a few losses. HE was not about to give up. He ordered the remainder of his unit to continue forward and prepare for a general assault into the enemy positions.