On 27 May, 1918, Ludendorff launched his Chemin des Dames offensive in a last gasp effort to win the First World War. Employing revolutionary tactics, his Sturmtruppen infiltrated, and then shattered the Allied front. At Foch’s request, the U.S. 2nd Division rushed in to defend the Parris-Metz highway. Its second brigade, composed of the 5th and 6th USMC Regiments, arrived at Lucy-le-Bocage amid a flood of fleeing French troops. When advised to join the rout, USMC Captain Lloyd Williams remarked, “Retreat hell. We just got here.” After halting the Kaiser’s troops, the Marines counter-attacked on 6 June at Hill 142, Belleau Wood and Beuresches.
Attacker: American (USMC) (5th Marine Infantry Regiment)
Defender: German (461st Imperial German Infantry Regiment)
