One of the aspects of World War I that often differs from the American Revolution, the Civil War or World War II is the lack of focus on specific battles - especially in both remembering and teaching the conflict. You probably have heard of Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, Gettysburg, D-Day, and Iwo Jima - but have you every heard of Cantigny? Although I've never focused on specific battles in the 20 years that I've taught World War I, I've always been interested in each, especially Cantigny. Cantigny has been at the forefront of my planning ever since I received a grant. I've always known about the battle because of the museum and golf course in Wheaton, hometown of my best man in my wedding. I've been to the First Division Museum there, and found that connection between Col. McCormick of the Chicago Tribune fame and the battle. I also listened to a few podcasts and read most of Matthew Davenport's book First Over There, which tells the great story of the engagement and discussed both the short-term and far-reaching impact of the AEF's success. Visiting the small village was eye-opening, not only for the battle, but to realize that this tiny little hamlet way off the beaten path was the site of America's first victory in World War I. If you blink while you're driving through the village, you'll miss it, and you will also miss the awesome memorials to the AEF troops that defeated the Germans. There is a monument for Colonel McCormick, and also a Doughboy statue to represent the First Division - The Big Red One. The Cantigny ABMC monument stands prominently in the middle of the village, overlooking the valley below and showing the importance of the high ground of the village. The 100+ inhabitants of the village will always remember the success of the AEF - they can look at the names of the two major roads in the town as a reminder. If you are looking for one battle that you can wrap your hands around in the Great War, it may be this one. Heroism abounded, and the AEF showed the Allied leaders that they can and will fight - the German army learned that as well. I am excited to go back to the First Division Museum to see their improvements and innovations - it's worth the jaunt to Wheaton! Side note - my best man, Andy/Skrunt, was born on May 28. Cantigny happened on May 28. Spooky.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorChuck Taft ArchivesCategories |