​​The withdrawing German forces heading eastwards and back towards Germany were in a state of disarray. Hitler had ordered on 4 September 1944 for port areas to become ‘Festung’ fortresses. The strategic advantage of controlling the ports for supplies was understood. In denying these to the allies this would cause logistical challenges.

​The German units that were tasked with creating these ‘festungs’ in the port area were of mixed capability. Many were men of low-grade training and would conduct static defensive duties. These would also include Kriegsmarine (German Navy) personnel who were stationed in the area.

​By early September Canadian Divisions had crossed the river Seine in the area of Elbuf and advanced northwest. They were tasked to clear the remaining German forces from the areas and specifically to capture ports. Key ports along the French coast included Dieppe, Boulogne, Calais and Dunkirk. The latter two being the final tour ports before moving into Belgium.

​Following the liberation of Boulogne on 22 September 1944, the Canadian 3rd Infantry Division continued to pressure the German forces along the coast and at ‘festung’ Calais. Like Boulogne, the German defences lay to the east, south and west of the town. Further to the west on the approaches were further German strongpoints including Cap Gris-Nes.

​The Canadian plan was to replicate Operation Wellhit, with infantry advancing into the town following a pre bombardment. This would be done with the support of the British 79th Armoured Division that included Churchill Crocodiles, the flame throwing tanks. The Canadian 7th and 8th Infantry Brigades would advance for Calais whilst the 9th Infantry Brigade in a sub operation would capture the German defences at Cap Gris-Nes.

​On 25 September the 7th and 8th Infantry Brigades moved for Calais. The terrain and German opposition made it a challenge for the Canadians to get into Calais. On the 28 September they were on the western outskirts of the town. A truce was called on the 29 September which allowed for over 20,000 civilians to be evacuated to safety. The next day the Canadians attacked immediately at the end of the cease fire and by the end of 30 September, Calais had been liberated.

​On 26 September and 28 September, the RAF attacked the German positions around Cap Gris-Nes. On 29 September the 9th Infantry Brigade attacked and captured the position. They were supported by the large guns ‘Winnie’ and ‘Pooh’ that were positioned at Dover, England.

​The Canadians had secured the town and port on 30 September. However, the port facilities had been damaged to the point that they would not be usable until November 1944.