Cantigny
American
Memorial
American memorials at Cantigny
- 1stUS Division
- 28may 1918
- 199dead soldiers
Battle of Cantigny
May 28-31, 1918
The Battle of Cantigny was launched on May 28, 1918. It was the first major American battle of the Great War. It helped to contain the German offensives of spring 1918. But it also boosted Allied morale and demonstrated the fighting ability of American soldiers.
More than 1,000 American soldiers were put out of action during this battle, 199 of whom died.
Alongside the Australians
American troops first entered Cantigny on May 28, 1918. And on July 4, 1918, their national holiday, 800 Americans take part in the Australian attack on the commune of Le Hamel. General John Monash announced that the battle would last 90 minutes (it actually lasted 93 minutes). The success of this battle makes Monash one of the most important figures of the Great War on the Australian side. Nevertheless, the battle claimed 1,200 Australian, 176 American and 2,000 German casualties.
It was the first and only time in its military history thatAustralia had American troops under its command. The decision to fight on July 4 was no stranger to this configuration.
Find out more about Le Hamel and General John Monash.
Where to eat?
– Hotel-Restaurant Le Dijon in Montdidier
Tel: 03 22 78 01 35
– Chez César in Le Plessiers-Rozainvillers
Tel: 03 22 94 33 17
Where to sleep?
Tel: 03 22 37 09 69
– Assainvillers Bed and Breakfast
Tel: 03 22 71 22 70 (reservations)
Tel: 03 22 71 22 70 (reservations)
