CAPTURED THE TOWN OF CANTIGNY ON MAY 28 1918 AND HELD IT

May 28, 2018 11:34 AM

100 years ago today the United States launched its first offensive in World War One. In the Battle of Cantigny the First Division attacked a ruined French town, then held it against a German counterattack. France provided direction, advice, air cover, and more hardware. Although a minor action, it was an American victory, so Cantigny proved to the Allies, the Central Powers, and the rest of the world that American forces could actually fight well in modern war. Much larger and more terrible battles would lie ahead in the coming months.

Robert McCormick commanded, although he was absent for some of the fight due to "the Spanish flu."

Teddy Roosevelt's oldest son commanded a regiment in the battle.

More:
Commander in Chief Pershing's statement.
A commemoration in Illinois, at Cantigny Park, appropriately.
The Lion of Cantigny statue, near a French memorial.
A panel discussion.

(Previously)

posted by doctornemo (3 comments total)

Huh, I knew we (the US) got into the war late, but I guess I never knew it was only less than 6 months before the end.
posted by sideshow at 12:54 PM on May 28, 2018 [1 favorite]

A commemoration in Illinois, at Cantigny Park, appropriately.

Cantigny Park was McCormick's estate and donated to the public after his death. So yes, very apropos. It's a very nice park.
posted by JoeZydeco at 4:17 PM on May 28, 2018

Cantigny Park was McCormick's estate and donated to the public after his death. So yes, very apropos. It's a very nice park.

It also houses, appropritely, the First Division (THE BIG RED ONE) museum on its grounds.

I have visited the Pritzker MilitaryMuseum near Millenium Park. A visit to this museum is something I have always wanted to do. Time to do it, I guess! :)
posted by indianbadger1 at 10:36 AM on May 29, 2018