Discover the History of Aisne-Marne American Cemetery

Aisne-Marne American Cemetery

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Discover the history

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Background

When the United States entered World War I in April 1917, the Allies and Germans all doubted the fighting capability of the Americans.

In the spring of 1918, German offensives on the Western Front sought to win the war before American forces could become fully operational.

During the Aisne-Marne and Oise-Aisne Offensives, American troops played a crucial role in stopping the German advance and turning the tide of the war. Their actions at Belleau Wood, Château-Thierry, and along the Marne River solidified their reputation as a formidable fighting force. The success of these battles helped shift the momentum in favor of the Allies, leading to further victories, including the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne campaigns.

General John J. Pershing led the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) to significant successes, ultimately contributing to the Armistice on November 11, 1918.

Aisne-Marne and Oise-Aisne Offensives Historical Map

Timeline

May 27, 1918: German forces broke through French lines at the “Chemin des Dames.” Within three days, they reached Belleau Wood and the Marne River at Château-Thierry. With no reserves, France called on the American Expeditionary Forces.
May 30, 1918: The U.S. 3rd Division arrived in Château-Thierry, blocking German forces on the north bank of the Marne throughout June.
Early June 1918: The U.S. 2nd Division, including the 4th Marine Brigade, replaced French units in the Belleau area.
June 6, 1918: U.S. Marines led the 2nd Division into Belleau Wood to clear out German units. The battle lasted 20 days and became an enduring symbol of the Marine Corps’ bravery. American forces proved their capability, boosting Allied confidence in a potential victory.
July 15, 1918: German forces attempted to break through Allied lines by crossing the Marne River east of Château-Thierry. The U.S. 3rd Division held firm, earning the nickname “Rock of the Marne” from the French Army.
July 18, 1918: The Allies launched the Aisne-Marne Offensive.
August 6, 1918: The German salient was eliminated, and Allied forces advanced to the Vesle River. Ten American divisions, totaling 310,000 men, participated in this offensive.