The French tanks, on their side, performed wonders, causing great havoc and spreading demoralisation in the enemy ranks.
One disabled tank-driver (Corporal Chevrel) surrounded by Germans held out for thirty-six hours, while another (Corporal Cellier), with the help of fifteen Americans, captured 700 Germans, including fourteen officers and a colonel, and two guns.
[Illustration: MAJOR-GENERAL CHAS. T. MENOHER.
[Illustration: MAJOR-GENERAL GEORGE H. CAMERON. Commanding the 4th Division.]
The Allied troops, fighting shoulder to shoulder with the French “poilus,” had a brilliant share in the victory. The British distinguished themselves by their splendid resistance on the St. Thierry Heights, the 15th Scottish Division covering itself with glory by storming and capturing Buzancy, south of Soissons.
The Italian 2nd Corps successfully defended the approaches of the Mountain of Rheims and distinguished itself in the defence of Bligny Hill.
America’s young troops, who were the last to join in the battle, fought admirably, eight of their divisions co-operating with the armies of Generals Mangin, Degoutte and De Mitry in the battle and pursuit.
In paying this just tribute to the valour of all the Allies, it should not be forgotten that the second victory of the Marne, like the first, was a glorious manifestation of French genius and heroism.
[Illustration: AMERICAN TROOPS ARRIVING.]
Awarded the Grand’ Croix de la Légion d’Honneur August 6, 1918.
“_ ... you arrived on the battlefield at the decisive hour...._” ]
Promoted Maréchal de France August 6, 1918.
“_ ... the confidence placed in the victor at the Marshes of Saint-Gond and the glorious commander on the Yser and Somme, was fully justified...._” ]
Awarded the Médaille Militaire August 6, 1918.
“_ ... breaking and driving back the German onrush, he acquired imperishable right to the nation’s gratitude...._” ]
From Paris the tour can be easily made in three days.
=1st day.=--Paris--Château-Thierry--Belleau Wood.
The roads are shown on the Michelin Map of France (scale, 1:200.000, _or about 3.15 miles per inch_), sheets Nos. 11 and 6.
The following itinerary includes practically all the places in the battle area where the troops of the 1st and 3rd American Army Corps distinguished themselves.