Battle of Cantigny: First American Offensive WWI From Amiens

The Battle of Cantigny marked a significant moment in the American involvement in World War I. As the first major offensive undertaken by the American Expeditionary Forces, it demonstrated the capabilities of the US troops and their determination to support their Allies’ efforts on the Western Front. Though the German gas attack disrupted parts of the American advance, the coordinated efforts of the infantry, tanks, and artillery ultimately secured a crucial victory, delivering a setback to the German war effort. This early success boosted American morale and foreshadowed the crucial role the US forces would play in the final stages of the conflict. What lessons did the American military learn from this pivotal battle, and how did it shape their strategy going forward?

Key Points

• The Battle of Cantigny was the first major offensive by American forces in World War I, requested by the Allies and commanded by General Pershing.
• The 1st Division of the American Expeditionary Forces captured the strategically important town of Cantigny from the Germans, despite several counterattacks.
• The German forces underestimated the combat readiness of the American soldiers, suffering heavy casualties from accurate American artillery and infantry fire.
• The 18th Infantry Regiment faced a German gas attack, which disrupted their position but the soldiers regained their footing and continued the assault.
• The 5th Field Artillery provided crucial fire support, delivering a relentless barrage that disrupted German communications and supply lines, contributing to the American victory.

Overview of the Battle

What was the significance of the Battle of Cantigny, the first American offensive of World War I?

On May 28, 1918, at the request of the Allies, General Pershing, Commanding General of the American Expeditionary Forces, decided to send an American division to retake the village of Cantigny in the Somme region of northern France.

This marked the first time American troops were committed to a major offensive operation in Europe.

The battle was a success, with the 1st Division capturing Cantigny from the Germans and holding it against several counterattacks.

This victory boosted American morale and demonstrated the capabilities of the growing American Expeditionary Forces, paving the way for their larger role in decisive battles to come.

The German Perspective on Cantigny

From the German perspective, the Battle of Cantigny represented a significant setback in their war efforts on the Western Front.

The American troops’ successful capture and defense of the strategically important village surprised the German forces, who hand’t anticipated the capabilities of the growing American Expeditionary Forces.

The German army faced several challenges during the battle:

• Underestimating the combat readiness and determination of the American soldiers
• Struggling to regain control of the vital transportation hub and high ground
• Sustaining heavy casualties from the accurate American artillery and infantry fire
• Failing to dislodge the well-entrenched American forces despite repeated counterattacks

The unexpected American victory at Cantigny demonstrated the growing threat posed by the United States’ involvement in the war, forcing the German command to reevaluate their strategies on the Western Front.

28th Infantry’s Attack on Cantigny

The 28th Infantry Division spearheaded the American assault on Cantigny, launching the first major offensive by U.S. forces in World War I on May 28, 1918. Supported by French Schneider tanks, the division pushed forward, capturing the village after heavy fighting.

The 18th Infantry Regiment, stationed at Villers Tournelle, was affected by a German gas attack during the battle.

Meanwhile, the 5th Field Artillery positioned at Rocquencourt provided crucial fire support.

With the 1st Division Headquarters located at Tartigny castle, the American forces successfully reclaimed Cantigny, a significant victory that boosted morale and demonstrated the growing capabilities of the American Expeditionary Forces on the Western Front.

Gas Attack on 18th Infantry Regiment

During the Battle of Cantigny, the 18th Infantry Regiment stationed at Villers Tournelle fell victim to a devastating German gas attack, which disrupted their position and threatened to undermine the American offensive.

Soldiers struggled to breathe, their lungs burning from the choking fumes. Many were rendered incapacitated, unable to effectively engage the enemy.

Medics scrambled to administer aid, but supplies were limited and overwhelmed. Unit cohesion quickly unraveled, sowing chaos and confusion in the ranks.

This unexpected setback tested the mettle of the American forces, who now faced the daunting challenge of regaining their footing and pressing forward against a wily and determined adversary.

5th Field Artillery’s Position

The 5th Field Artillery position at Rocquencourt played a crucial role in supporting the American offensive at Cantigny. Positioned strategically along the flanks, the gunners worked tirelessly to provide accurate and sustained fire, softening the German defenses and paving the way for the advancing infantry. Their unwavering determination and skillful marksmanship would prove instrumental in the eventual capture of the village.

As the battle raged, the 5th Field Artillery’s guns unleashed a relentless barrage, raining down a hail of steel and explosives on the enemy fortifications. Their coordinated efforts with the infantry and tanks ensured a devastating impact, disrupting German communications and supply lines. The artillerymen’s unwavering commitment and precise targeting were essential to the success of the first American offensive of World War I.

1st Division Headquarters at Tartigny

Nestled amidst the rolling hills, Tartigny castle served as the headquarters for the 1st American Division, the vanguard of the Allied offensive at Cantigny.

Here, General Pershing and his staff oversaw the meticulously planned assault, their keen eyes scrutinizing every detail as they dispatched orders that would shape the course of the battle.

From this bastion, the American command exerted its influence, marshaling the resources and manpower necessary to deliver a decisive blow against the entrenched German forces.

The 1st Division Headquarters at Tartigny castle was:

• A strategic command post overlooking the battlefield
• The nerve center directing the American attack
• A hub of activity and communication during the battle
• A symbol of American resolve and commitment to the Allied cause

First American Cemetery at Bonvillers

After the fierce battle at Cantigny, the fallen American soldiers were laid to rest in the first temporary American cemetery established in the region, located in the nearby village of Bonvillers.

This solemn site stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by the 1st Division as they courageously fought to secure victory in the opening offensive of the American Expeditionary Forces.

The cemetery was hastily constructed to provide a dignified final resting place for the brave men who gave their lives. Rows of simple white crosses mark the graves, each honoring an individual who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Visitors to this hallowed ground can reflect on the tremendous cost of war and the profound loss felt by families and comrades alike.

Visit to Cantigny Vicinity

Why not start by exploring the iconic village of Cantigny, the site of the first major American offensive of the Great War?

This quaint French hamlet, once the epicenter of a hard-fought battle, now stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the American 1st Division. Visitors can wander the very streets and fields where the young American soldiers bravely advanced, capturing the village and holding it against fierce German counterattacks.

The area offers a wealth of history to discover:

• Visit the monument honoring the American soldiers
• Explore the preserved trenches and bunkers from the battle
• Tour the Cantigny Park, home to a military museum and memorial
• Discover the stories of valor and hardship etched into the landscapes

Frequently Asked Questions

What Was the Weather Like During the Battle of Cantigny?

The weather was mostly sunny and warm during the Battle of Cantigny, with clear skies allowing the American forces to coordinate their assault. However, occasional rain showers and winds made operating the new tanks and artillery more challenging.

Were There Any Notable Casualties Among the American Forces?

The Americans suffered nearly 1,000 casualties capturing Cantigny, but their bravery and discipline impressed the Allies. The 28th Infantry Regiment, leading the attack, lost over 200 men but successfully secured the strategically important village.

What Were the Overall Strategic Goals of the Battle of Cantigny?

The overall strategic goals of the Battle of Cantigny were to retake the village from the Germans and demonstrate the American Expeditionary Forces’ capability, boosting Allied morale and showing the Germans that the US was a formidable new force in the war.

Did the American Forces Encounter Any Significant Resistance From the German Troops?

The American forces encountered significant resistance from the German troops during the Battle of Cantigny. The Germans put up a fierce fight, but the well-trained American division, supported by French tanks, ultimately prevailed and captured the village.

Were There Any Notable Acts of Heroism or Bravery During the Battle?

The American forces displayed remarkable courage and heroism during the Battle of Cantigny. Soldiers of the 28th Infantry Regiment fought tenaciously, capturing their objectives and repelling German counterattacks despite heavy casualties. Their valor marked the first significant American victory in World War I.

Recap

The Battle of Cantigny marked a significant victory for the American Expeditionary Forces.

Though faced with a German gas attack, the 1st Division’s coordinated assault, supported by the 5th Field Artillery’s precision fire, allowed them to capture the vital transportation hub.

This success boosted American morale and demonstrated the growing capabilities of the US forces on the Western Front.