Comes with a hand-signed C.O.A.

This rare and museum-grade World War I map shows the Remonville Sector. The Remonville Sector situated in the northeastern part of France, holds significant historical importance in the context of World War I. This region, marked by its strategic location near the Western Front, witnessed numerous battles and military operations, contributing to the broader efforts of the Allied forces to counter the German advances. Understanding the Remonville Sector involves delving into the key battles, military strategies, and the divisions that played pivotal roles in shaping the outcomes of the conflict in this area.

Strategic Importance of the Remonville Sector

Remonville's geographic position made it a critical point of contention during the war. Located near the Meuse River and in proximity to Verdun, one of the most fortified and fiercely contested areas, the Remonville Sector served as a vital link in the network of defenses and offensives along the Western Front. Control over this sector meant having a strategic advantage in terms of logistics, troop movements, and launching offensives into enemy-held territories.

Major Battles and Operations

Several significant battles and military operations unfolded in the Remonville Sector, each contributing to the broader narrative of World War I.

1. The Meuse-Argonne Offensive (September 26 – November 11, 1918)

   • Background and Objectives: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive was one of the largest American-led operations of the war, aimed at breaking through the heavily fortified Hindenburg Line and ultimately forcing Germany into an armistice. The Remonville Sector was a key area within this offensive, where intense fighting took place.

   • Combat Actions: American forces, particularly the 77th and 79th Divisions, were heavily engaged in the Remonville Sector. The 79th Division, for instance, faced formidable German defenses as they pushed through the Argonne Forest towards the Meuse River. The offensive was characterized by brutal trench warfare, with soldiers enduring difficult terrain, heavy artillery fire, and counterattacks.

   • Outcomes: The relentless pressure applied by the Allied forces, including those in the Remonville Sector, eventually led to significant territorial gains. The capture of critical positions and the depletion of German resources were instrumental in weakening German resolve, contributing to the overall success of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.

2. The Saint-Mihiel Offensive (September 12 – 15, 1918)

   • Background and Objectives: Prior to the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, the Saint-Mihiel Offensive aimed to reduce the Saint-Mihiel salient, a bulge in the German lines that threatened Allied communications and supply routes. The Remonville Sector, while not the primary focus, played a supporting role in the broader strategy.

   • Combat Actions: The American Expeditionary Forces (AEF), under the command of General John J. Pershing, executed a coordinated attack involving multiple divisions, including those positioned near Remonville. The offensive employed combined arms tactics, integrating artillery, infantry, and air support to overwhelm German defenses.

   • Outcomes: The successful reduction of the Saint-Mihiel salient demonstrated the growing effectiveness and coordination of the AEF. The momentum gained from this victory set the stage for subsequent operations, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.

Divisions and Their Roles

Several divisions had notable combat participation in the Remonville Sector, each contributing to the overall Allied efforts through their distinct roles and experiences.

1. 77th Division

   • Formation and Composition: The 77th Division, also known as the "Metropolitan Division," was composed primarily of soldiers from New York City and surrounding areas. It was one of the first National Army divisions to be deployed to France.

   • Actions in Remonville: During the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, the 77th Division operated in the Argonne Forest, including areas near Remonville. The division faced challenging conditions, including dense forest, difficult terrain, and stiff German resistance. Notably, the "Lost Battalion" incident, where several companies of the 77th were isolated and surrounded by German forces, highlighted the division's resilience and determination.

   • Legacy: The actions of the 77th Division in the Remonville Sector and the broader Argonne Forest campaign underscored the bravery and tenacity of its soldiers. Their efforts contributed to the eventual success of the offensive and the collapse of German defenses.

2. 79th Division

   • Formation and Composition: The 79th Division, also known as the "Liberty Division," was drawn from Pennsylvania, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. It was part of the second wave of American divisions to arrive in France.

   • Actions in Remonville: The division's participation in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive involved intense fighting in and around Remonville. The 79th Division faced significant challenges, including navigating heavily defended German positions and sustaining casualties. Despite these obstacles, the division made crucial advances, capturing strategic points and contributing to the overall momentum of the offensive.

   • Legacy: The 79th Division's performance in the Remonville Sector exemplified the growing combat effectiveness of American forces in World War I. Their perseverance and tactical achievements were vital in the push towards the Meuse River and the eventual armistice.

3. 33rd Division

   • Formation and Composition: The 33rd Division, also known as the "Prairie Division," consisted mainly of National Guard units from Illinois. It was recognized for its high level of training and preparedness.

   • Actions in Remonville: Although primarily involved in other sectors, elements of the 33rd Division supported operations in the Remonville Sector during critical phases of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Their role included providing reinforcements and logistical support, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Allied push.

   • Legacy: The 33rd Division's contributions to the broader campaign, including their support roles in the Remonville Sector, highlighted the importance of well-coordinated multi-division operations. Their involvement ensured sustained pressure on German defenses, facilitating the ultimate success of the offensive.

The Remonville Sector during World War I was a microcosm of the broader conflict on the Western Front, reflecting the complexities, challenges, and triumphs of trench warfare. The battles and operations in this sector, particularly the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, showcased the strategic significance of Remonville and the critical role played by various divisions. The 77th, 79th, and 33rd Divisions, among others, demonstrated remarkable bravery and effectiveness, contributing to the eventual Allied victory. Understanding the Remonville Sector provides valuable insights into the dynamics of World War I and the sacrifices made by soldiers in the pursuit of peace and stability.