Reference Entry
BATTLE OF SEICHEPREY
In the spring of 1918, the American Expeditionary Forces were still gaining experience on the Western Front when German troops launched a major raid near the village of Seicheprey. On April 20th, 1918, storm troops attacked positions held by the 26th “Yankee” Division, made up largely of New England National Guard units. The German assault used heavy artillery preparation, infiltration tactics, and gas shells to knock out forward trenches and disrupt communications.
Dated Historical Context
A RECORDED MOMENT IN HISTORY
Battle of Seicheprey in France
In the spring of 1918, the American Expeditionary Forces were still gaining experience on the Western Front when German troops launched a major raid near the village of Seicheprey. On April 20th, 1918, storm troops attacked positions held by the 26th “Yankee” Division, made up largely of New England National Guard units. The German assault used heavy artillery preparation, infiltration tactics, and gas shells to knock out forward trenches and disrupt communications. Parts of the American line were driven in, and some units suffered heavy casualties and captures, while others rallied and counterattacked to restore the position. Though the ground gained and lost was small, the engagement was a harsh introduction to large-scale trench warfare for United States forces. Seicheprey showed American leaders the need for better coordination, training, and defensive preparation, even as it proved that the new arrivals could absorb a serious blow and remain in the fight on the Allied right.
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