Belleau Wood and Vaux: 1 to 26 June & July 1918

The Battle of Belleau Wood was a significant event in the history of the United States Marine Corps, taking place between 6 and 27 June 1918. It was the first major battle by the USMC in Europe and marked the end of the third great German offensive of Spring 1918, the Blucher-York Offensive. The fighting was brutal and involved several attacks and counter-attacks, neither side willing to yield an inch of the terrain. Although the offensive locally here came to an end and the initial German threat was nearly overcome, the focal point of the fighting moved to Villers Cotterets, twenty-five kilometers north-east of Belleau. The battle is now considered a pivotal event in the First World War and an iconic battle in US Marine Corps history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 30 April 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Battle of Belleau Wood holds a significant place in the history of the United States Marine Corps, occurring between 6 and 27 June 1918. While it is sometimes regarded as spanning 1 to 26 June, the initial marine attack on the wood occurred on 6 June 1918. At that time, the primary German threat in the area had largely subsided. Nonetheless, the importance of Belleau Wood to the Marine Corps is underscored by the presence of a monument commemorating the 4th (Marine) Brigade of the US 2nd Division, as well as a preserved section of the wood located to the rear of the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery. This battle marked the first major engagement by the USMC in Europe during World War I.

The battle unfolded as the culmination of the third major German offensive of Spring 1918, known as the Blucher-York Offensive or the 3rd Battle of the Aisne. Initiated on 27 May and officially concluded on 4 June, this offensive had initially achieved remarkable territorial gains. However, by the time the 2nd Division, including the marines, was called in to assist the French Sixth Army in holding the line line and retaking crucial positions, the offensive had nearly ground to a halt.

The primary objective of the Marine Corps in Belleau Wood was to prevent the Germans from breaking through the French lines and advancing toward Paris. However, the situation evolved into a three-week-long slog match in and around Belleau Wood. It was initiated by French General Duchne upon his suggestion, although the marines could have simply held the line and been content with that. As it turned out, they were thrust into action with minimal preparation time.

The fighting in Belleau Wood was exceptionally brutal, characterized by numerous attacks and counter-attacks from both sides. Neither side was willing to cede an inch of the terrain of this strategically important feature. The Marines faced relentless German artillery fire, and the terrain itself was challenging, with thick vegetation and uneven ground complicating their movements. Despite the odds, the Marines demonstrated their bravery and resilience, engaging in hand-to-hand combat and using innovative tactics to overcome the German forces.

The Battle of Belleau Wood was a significant turning point in the war, as it demonstrated the Marine Corps' ability to adapt and overcome challenging circumstances. It showcased the bravery and determination of the Marine Corps soldiers and their willingness to endure extreme hardships in pursuit of their mission. The battle also highlighted the importance of coordination and teamwork among different branches of the military, as the Marines worked closely with the French Sixth Army to repel the German offensive.

In conclusion, the Battle of Belleau Wood is a pivotal moment in the history of the United States Marine Corps. It marked the first major engagement by the Marine Corps in Europe during World War I and showcased the bravery and resilience of the Marine Corps soldiers. The battle's significance lies in its ability to prevent the German advance toward Paris and in its demonstration of the Marine Corps' ability to adapt and overcome challenging circumstances. The battle continues to be honored and remembered as a testament to the bravery and dedication of the Marine Corps.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526796219