"Belleau Wood 1918" Topic

Hey all,

Quick question and need for a recommendation:

I've started to do a bit of research regarding the Battle of Belleau Wood. I'm wondering if anyone here on TMP could recommend a book to me that gives a good account of the tactical/strategic difficulties in fighting the battle. Also, would love to find something that gives an effective description of the geography.

As for my question (since my curiosity is peaked), does anyone have an idea of the quality of the German fortifications inside the wood? From what I've read, there were numerous MG nests covering the wood, and some trenchlines, though it does seem that the Germans didn't have all that much time to dig in. Were these elaborate trenches or were they more like foxholes strung together?

Thanks,

J

There are two that I would recommend:
Chateau Thierry & Belleau Wood 1918, Osprey Campaign Series

The Devil Dogs of Belleau Wood, US Marines in WWI, Dick Camp

Basically there were no real fortifications within the wood, more like foxholes strung together than real trenches.

Here is another while I'm looking:
At Belleau Wood, Robert Asprey

And one that will likely be harder to find:
Second Division Northwest of Chateau Thierry; 1 June to 10th July 1918, John Thomason

The photographs here illustrate what the surrounding terrain was like. The contours are based on maps from the time:

link

Robert

Two other books that might be of use:

Through the Wheat: BG Edwin Howard Simmons USMC (Ret) and Col Joseph H. Alexander, USMC (Ret) -- Anvil Institute Press

Miracle at Belleau Wood: Alan Axelrod -- Lyons Press

Regards

KL