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

This rare and museum-grade World War I map shows the Soissons Operation. The Soissons Operation occurring between July 18 and 24, 1918, was a pivotal moment in the final phases of World War I. It marked a significant shift in momentum on the Western Front, underscoring the growing effectiveness and impact of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) under the leadership of General John J. Pershing.

Context and Background

By mid-1918, the German Spring Offensive had pushed the Allied forces into a precarious position, creating a salient that threatened Paris. The Germans, buoyed by initial successes, had overextended their lines, creating an opportunity for a counteroffensive. The Allied high command, led by French General Ferdinand Foch, devised a plan to exploit this vulnerability. The objective was to launch a coordinated attack that would reduce the salient and regain lost territory, setting the stage for further offensives.

The First Division AEF, also known as the "Big Red One," had already distinguished itself in earlier engagements, including the Battle of Cantigny. By July, it was seasoned and ready for a more significant role. Alongside French forces, the First Division was tasked with a critical segment of the operation aimed at driving the Germans back and recapturing the town of Soissons.

Planning and Preparation

The Soissons Operation was meticulously planned, with an emphasis on coordination between American and French units. The First Division AEF, commanded by Major General Charles P. Summerall, was assigned to the French XX Corps under the overall direction of General Charles Mangin. The French and American forces were to attack simultaneously, leveraging their combined strength to overwhelm the German defenses.

The terrain around Soissons was challenging, characterized by rolling hills and dense forests, which offered natural defensive advantages to the Germans. Detailed reconnaissance and intelligence gathering were crucial to the operation's planning. Artillery preparation was extensive, with the aim of neutralizing German strongpoints and facilitating the infantry's advance.

The Battle Unfolds

The operation commenced in the early hours of July 18, 1918, with a massive artillery barrage designed to disrupt German command and control, as well as to destroy their defensive positions. The First Division advanced behind a creeping barrage, a tactic that had been refined over the course of the war. The initial assault caught the Germans off guard, achieving significant gains on the first day.

The fighting was intense and brutal, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. The American forces demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, pushing forward despite stiff resistance. Key to their success was the effective use of combined arms tactics, integrating infantry, artillery, and support from machine guns and tanks.

One of the most notable actions during the operation was the capture of the village of Berzy-le-Sec on July 20. The village had been heavily fortified by the Germans, but the coordinated efforts of the First Division, supported by French units, eventually overcame the defenders. This victory was crucial in maintaining the momentum of the Allied advance.

Allied Coordination and Support

The Soissons Operation was characterized by a high degree of cooperation between American and French forces. The French XX Corps, which included the First Division AEF, played a central role in the attack. Additionally, the French Tenth Army, under General Charles Mangin, provided critical support, particularly in terms of artillery and logistical assistance.

Other American divisions also participated in the broader offensive operations in the sector. The Second Division, which included the famed Marine Brigade, fought alongside French and British units in adjacent sectors, contributing to the overall success of the counteroffensive. Their efforts helped to stretch German defenses and prevent the concentration of enemy forces against any single point of attack.

Strategic Impact and Aftermath

The Soissons Operation was a resounding success for the Allied forces. By July 22, the salient had been significantly reduced, and the town of Soissons was back in Allied hands. The Germans were forced to retreat, abandoning much of their heavy equipment and suffering substantial losses in the process. The operation marked a turning point in the war, demonstrating the growing prowess of the American forces and the effectiveness of coordinated Allied operations.

For the First Division AEF, the battle was a testament to their valor and combat effectiveness. The division's success at Soissons bolstered its reputation as one of the premier fighting units of the AEF. The lessons learned in terms of combined arms tactics, coordination with allied units, and the importance of logistical support would inform subsequent operations.

The broader strategic impact of the Soissons Operation cannot be overstated. It shattered German hopes of maintaining their gains from the Spring Offensive and set the stage for the Hundred Days Offensive, which ultimately led to the Armistice in November 1918. The success at Soissons also highlighted the critical role of American forces in the Allied victory, a role that would shape international relations and military doctrine in the years to come.

The Soissons Operation was a defining moment in World War I, showcasing the effectiveness of the First Division AEF and the power of Allied cooperation. From the meticulous planning and preparation to the brutal and determined execution, the battle exemplified the evolving nature of modern warfare. The victory at Soissons not only provided a significant tactical and strategic advantage but also symbolized the rising influence of the United States on the global stage. As we reflect on this pivotal operation, we remember the courage and sacrifice of those who fought and the enduring lessons that continue to inform military strategy and international collaboration.