Montfaucon American Monument

Montfaucon American Monument is a monument commemorating the American victory in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive during World War I. It is located in Montfaucon-d'Argonne in Lorraine, France. The American Battle Monuments Commission maintains the monument.

Description

The monument is made of a large Doric-style granite column, on top of which stands a statue symbolizing liberty. The monument was built near the ruins of the ancient village, destroyed during World War I. It commemorates the American victory during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive of 26 September 1918 to 11 November 1918, during which the United States army forced the German army to retreat. On the walls of the foyer is an account of the battle. The monument overall pays homage to the troops who served there. The observation platform of the memorial can be reached by ascending two hundred thirty four stairs, and offers a view of the battlefield.

Inauguration

The monument was inaugurated 1 August 1937, in the presence of the President of the French Republic, Albert Lebrun. Franklin D. Roosevelt, then the President of the United States, delivered a radio address for the ceremony from Washington, DC.

Gallery

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Montfaucon American Monument.

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  Ruined church at Montfaucon-d'Argonne directly behind the monument. The blocky structure on the left is a German World War I observation post.
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  Verdun, Montfaucon, American Monument, American Cemetery

See also

• Meuse-Argonne Offensive
• Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery and Memorial

References

• (fr) Nicolas Honecker, Les Visites des Chefs d'Etat Français en Lorraine, Editions Lacour, 2006.
• Monument on the official American site of the American Battle Monuments Commission and authorization

External links

• Roosevelt's radio address transcript