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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 2 at the brilliant success of the drive and were eager to take their part in the advance. Enemy airplanes flew low and attempted to hara- this regiment *md other troops massed in the woods behind »he line*, with machine gun fire. Battalion commanders were called to Regimental Headquarters and told that the regiment would attack the German lint east of Vierzy on the morning of July 19th. This information was given to the battalion commanders at about 4 ; 30 A.M. ol July 19th. The attack was started at 8.30 A.M. with the 1st Battalion on the right ot the Regimental^ area, the 2nd on the left and the third in support. I h>* attack was supported by tanks. "I he advance to the frcnt line, htth more than a kilometer distant, was across perfect!) optTl wheat field- The pace, because of the necessity of following the tanks, was slow and the advance over the entire distance was throuen a hrrav) harrace put down by the enemy. When the front line" were pa^ed the enenv. machine guns proved most troublesome. A halt »a> made ?fler n gain of about one kilometer for the reason thr»t ihc casualties had e o reduced the regiment thnt further advance was practically impossible What remained ol the regiment look shelter in a lint- of ^cmt-comple'e intrenchments constructed by the German-, wHoi2 from 10:3^ AM until dark the reoiment was suhiected to the enemy'* artillery, onr pounder and machine gun fire, Early in the fightim- it was diF*"**vereri that an uncovered cap had developed between the l K t and 2r»d Bait- alions, and Maior S»h Ie>, cororrpnclinfi the 3rd Rottalon, to uhich had been attached the 15th and 77th Machine Gun Comnanies, one platoon each from the 73rd and 81st Machme Gun Companies also the Stoke* mortar and one-pounder platoons of the Headquarters Co:rpany wi'hout their mortars and one pounders, was ordered to fill this cap. He ordered the 83rd and 84th Companies to advance into this portion of the lin<~ which was uncovered, the remainder of Major Sibley's command follow- ing the lead ng battalions at a distance of one thousand yards. The 77th Company and ihe platoon of 8!st Company were detached fron, the 3rd Battalion later in the day. The following message was seni to all battalion commanders at 3 :45 P.M . "From : CO. 6th Regt. At: P.C. 19 July 1918—3 :4b P.M. No. 10 By runner. To: C.O .'s 1st. 2nd, 3rd Bns., Hqrs. Co., 1st Bn. 2nd Engrs The Division Commander directs us to dig in and hold oui present line at all costs. No further advance will be made lor the present. He congratulates the command on its gallant conduct in the face of severe casualties. Let me have sketch of your position and dispostion. Am- munition at crossroads 112 southeast of Vierzy. Lee".


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28 amazed at the way in which her dancing and leaping had improved.

Now, during the days in which Eepersip had been growing wild she had made friends with another chipmunk, who was even more fond of her than the one by the pool had been. The Eigleens and their friends now saw him scutter out of the woods end frolic around Eepersip. Last of all they saw Eepersip lie down on the grass to gaze at the sky.

"This would be a splendid opportunity for catching her," muttered Mr. Ikkisfield to Mr. Eigleen, as they looked at her.

"Hm! that’s just what I was thinking," whispered Mr. Eigleen in reply. "Suppose we go out in the field and try."

They all tiptoed down the slope and out into the field, where they immediately laid hands on Eepersip once more. She started violently and cried oat to the doe who was near. The doe dashed up, but did not succeed in rescuing Eepersip, for Mrs. Ikkisfield ran to hold her back.

"Never mind Eepersip--Mr. Eigleen and Mr. Wraspane can do that. Hold back the deer!" thundered Mrs. Eigleen, a slow red rising to her face. They all flew at the poor creature, except the two who were holding the struggling Eepersip.

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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 23 developments. Both artilleries were quiet and each side moderately active in the air. While in this vicinity the men were given swimming instruction in the river and liberty to Nancy was granted to 25% of the reserve units. On August 16th Lieut. Colonel Holcomb was assigned to duty as second in command of the Regiment, Major Ernest C. Williams succeeding Lieut. Colonel Holcomb in command of the 2na Battalion. The regiment was relieved on the I Oth of August a*H on August 1 7th the Headquarters ot the Regiment was moved to Har- monville. The 1st Battalion arrived and was billeted at Harmonbille on August I9lh. The 2nd Battalion was billeted at the Bois de I'Eveque, md the 3rd Battalion at Autreville. While in this area the new re- placements were instructed in new features of warfare, hikes were held and more casuals, as well as replacements, both officers and men, were received. A rifle range and maneuver ground at Bois de I'Eveque was used in turn by the different battalions. On September 22nd, after standing-by all the day before, orders were received to begin a series of marches which were to take the legi- meut into the St. Mihiel sector and into the first wholly American grand offensive. The First Army had just been brought into being and rumors of a big drive against the German strongholds in the salient in front of Metz had been rife for weeks. It was planned to march by night and to bivouac in the woods during the day, screened from aerial observation. The marches were not extremely severe. Regimentai Headquarters moved as follows : Thuilly September 2nd-3rd- Chaud- eney September 4th; Perme de Sebastopol September 5th- 1 O th. At Ferme de Sebastopol drill and attack formations through woods and underbrush were held. Replacements and casuals joined the regiment on September 6th, giving each company a strength of approximately two hundred and twentv men. On September I Oth the regiment marched to Manonville where Regimental Headquarters was established and troops bivouaced in the woods in that vicinity. Here on September I Ith all battalion officers and company commanders received tank instructions. Emphasis was laid on maintaining liaison between tanks and infantry. It was clearly indicated that this was to be one of ihe great offensives of the war. Troops were massed in every woods. The amount of heavy artillery, especially of long range guns mounted on railway trucks and well camouflaged, exceeded that of any former offensive. On September 1 1 th a number of replacements were received, bringing the regiment approximately to full complement. These replacements, like all former one*, consisted mostly of men who had enlisted in the Marine Corps after war had been declared and had received the regular recruit training at Parris Island. South Carolina, Mare Island, California, and other recru't depots in the United States. From the recruit depots these men were sent to Quantico, Virginia, where replacement battalions and regiments were formed. At Quantico they received instruction in the


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474 sick baby brought it along, and every woman that hadn’t, borrowed one. What reverent and what worshiping looks they bent upon that dread, mysterious power, the Doctor! They watched him take his phials out; they watched him measure the particles of white powder; they watched him add drops of one precious liquid, and drops of another; they lost not the slightest movement; their eyes were riveted upon him with a fascination that nothing could distract. I believe they thought he was gifted like a god. When each individual got his portion of medicine, his eyes were radiant with joy—notwithstanding by nature they are a thankless and impassive race—and upon his face was written the unquestioning faith that nothing on earth could prevent the patient from getting well now.

Christ knew how to preach to these simple, superstitious, disease-tortured creatures: He healed the sick. They flocked to our poor human doctor this morning when the fame of what he had done to the sick chill went abroad in the land, and they worshiped him with their eyes while they did not know


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 25 from Limey to Center of Bois-de-Euvzin — eastern edge of clearing be- tween Bois-de-Be^u-Vallon — Bois-de-Euvezin — Hill 264.3 (inclusive) — Thiaucourt (inclusive)— Xammes (exclusive)—Charey (inclusive). The regiment was to advance in two lines of battalions, each battalion in form with two companies in the first line and two companies in support. J~he advance of the regiment was to be made in rushes by successive! bounds. rhe firs* bound was to be line of departure to the front line trenches. Trie second bound was to be the enemy's first positions; the third bound the enemy's intermediary or first combat positions; the fourth bound their second positions; and the fifth bound was to be the line "first phase." Each bound was to be initiated from the departure of the rear battalion of the 23rd In- tantry from the objective ol the bound. The regiment was to be all limes prepared iu pass through the 23rd Infantry and to continue the attack. The first attack was to begin on "D" day at "H" hour. The artillery action wai to beg'n on "D" day at "H ' minus four hours. A rolling barrage was to precede the infantr> advance at the rate of 100 meters in four minutes to the "first phase", where a standing barrage was tc oe put down in the foreground unl " "H plus six hours, when 9 rolling barrage was to continue to the line "first day ' at the rate of 100 meters in tour minutes. One company of light tanks was to take position on "D" day at "H" hour minus four hours near the L'ron- vilIe-Noviant road, head of column 500 meters south of Lironville. The following order was sent from Regimental Headquarters on September II. 1918: "I. To-morrow, September 12th, is "D" day. "H" hour is 5 -00 A.M. The artillery preparation will start at I
 * 00 A.M. and con-

tinue for four (4) hours. During this bombardment it is absolutely necessary that ail men be kept under cover in designated positions. 2. Ycu will march your command at the earliest practicable moment for youi positions indicated; viz., 3rd Battalion in trenches on south edge of Limey—2nd Battalion in trenches and works in ravine about 500 yards southwest of Limey. It is imperative that you be in position before the artillery preparation starts at I
 * 00

A.M 3. Chemical warfare grandes and material will be found at dump west edge of Lironville. Details from platoons must be senr there to obtain these materials. H. LEE, Colonel, USMC, Commanding." The battalion commanders were, Major Frederick A Barker. 1st Battalion; Major Ernest C. Williams, 2nd Battalion; Lieut. Col. Berton W. Sibley, 3rd Battalion.


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Rh History oj Sixth Reciment, U. S. Marines. 27 At this time the 23rd Infantry was about 1000 yards behind the Army line and was subjected to heavy direct artillery fire. A rearward movement was noticed and two companies of this battalion were pushed out to support the line. About 5 P.M. the original line was reestablish- ed. This position in support of the 23rd Infantry was maintained through- out the night. Upon verbal orders from the Brigade Commander in Thiaucourt. at *boul 6:50 P.M ., to send one battalion to protect the left flank of the 23rd Infantry, the 2nd Battalion was designated for this duty and moved out to position, and the following field message was sent to Brigade : "6th Marines, Thiaucourt, 12 Sept. 18 . 6:30 P.M . No. 12 . Commanding General, 4th Brigade. 2nd Battalion (Williams) has been ordered to take up a flank position running southwest at about 800 yards from 362.4-242.6, 3rd Battalion (Sibley) holds position to north of Thiaucourt 1000 yards in rear of 23rd Infantry. More details later. What is Barker s status? Our P. C . will be established at 7:30 P.M. in mayor's house. H. Lee." The 1st and 2nd Battalions returned to the regiment the next day. Upon receipt of Brigade field oiders to relieve the 3rd Brigade in their position north of 1 hiaucourt, the relief was conducted as follows : The 1st Battalion relieved the 3rd Battalion of 23rd Infantry at 8 P.M. Sept. 13th in support position along the Beney-Thiaucourt road; the 2nd Battalion relieved the 1st Battalion of the 23rd Infantry in support position at 7 P.M.; the 3rd Battalion relieved the 2nd Battalion of the 23rd Infantry in the forward position, advancing the first line to the Army line, and the reliefs were reported as follows : "From CO. 2nd Bn. At P.C., date 13 Sept. 18 , hour 7 P.M. Sent by runner to CO. 6th Marines. Relief complete. Sketch plan of company dispositions and battalion P.C's on reverse hereof. Williams. " "From CO., 1st Bn. 6th Regt. At Toul-Thiaucourt railroad station, Sept. 13, 1918. Hour 8:45 P.M . To : CO. 6th Marines. This battalion has relieved the 3rd Battalion of the 23rd In- fantry. Relief completed at 8 P.M. Battalion holds support line along Beney-Thiaucourt road 361.9-362 .5, except three platoons of 74th Company, which is 400 yards north of road. Order of com- panies from right to left — 74th, 76th, 75th and 95th Company in rear of 74th and 76th south of road. Battalion P.C at R.R. station 362.6 -246.4. Barker. "


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 29 In accordance with your operations memo No. 2 of 5 : 45 P.M. this date, the 82nd and Bird our present front line. Cos. have been ordered to hold this position. The 97th and 84th Cos. have been ordered to pass thru them jump off from Jaulny-Xammes road at 7:45 P.M. and to occupy the Army I ne. This P.C. will move forward with those two companies along the road passing through the center of the Kegt. subsector. Pinal location will be reported later. An office P.C. will be maintained at the present location. Sibley." These moves were completed during the night. The 97th and 84th Companies of the 3rd Battalion occupied the forward positions. The 82nd and 83rd Companies were ordered to remain in position, on account of the difficulty of moving in the darkness. Two platoons of the 1 5th Machine Gun Company were ordered to support the new front line. Major Barker, with the 1st Battalion, moved north at 9 P.M. Both the new and the old line positions were shelled heavily by the enemy and at I I P.M. airplanes dropped bombs in the vicinit es of cross roads Casual- ties were net heavy. At daylight on the morning of the 15th the 2nd Battalion, under Major Williams, passed through the 3rd Battalion and occupied the Bois la Montagny. f he move drew heavy shell fire from the enemy. Difficulty was encountered in maintaining liaison. The 2nd Battalion was separated into two bodies, one under Major Williams and the other under Captain Martin. 1 hese troops were without liaison for several hours during the morning, as was the 1st Battalion in the Bois de la Montagny. The 84th and 97th Companies of the 3rd Battalion sent patrols tc locate them. 1 he 2nd Battalion had moved into close pro- Aimity to the German lines and the enemy opened heav> machine gun fire. The 1st Battalion was placed in line on the right and left flanks of the 2nd Battalion; the 76th Company on the right flank, with the 74th Company in support and the 75th Company with the 95th Company on the left flank. The 3rd Battalion a as ordered to reinforce the 2nd Battalion at 10:30 A.M. and two platoons were sent from the 83rd Company for this duty. A heavy artillery barrage from the long range guns of the forts near Metz was put down on the 2nd Battalion and the reinforcing platoons. The enemy also attempted a counterattack, but va> repulsed by rifle and machine gun fire by the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the two platoons of the 83rd Company. These two platoons were re- called to their company at 6 .00 P.M. The entire sector was heavily shelled during the whole day of September 15th. Casualties were com- paratively light. Information was received from Brigade Headquarters on the morning of September 15th that the 5th Marines had been ordered to establish a


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 31 The enemy's losses were considerable in ihese three assault;, this regiment sustaining heavier losses in this operation than in any other since the offensive began. In the four days' offensive, Captain W. D. Black, 05th Company, and Lieutenants Simmonds, Kilduff and Stockwell, ot the 2nd Battalion, were killed, and thirteen officers wounded. In this offensive the regiment lost approximately four hundred and twenty-one men and officers killed and wounded. Information regarding the strength of the enemy's strongholds in this sector, received before the grand offensive began, proved not to have been exaggerated. Only the terrific four-hour preparation of the morning of September 12th made the first stages of the operation possible without serious opposition. The area of this regiment had included several woods, which were well fortified. Evidence of the completeness with which the artillery had been informed regarding enemy pill boxes, strongholds and defenses, was borne out by the havoc wrought upon them. The enemy had been driven into dugouts and trenches by the bombardment and those who did not retreat as the barrage advance were taken prisoners. The town of Thiaucourt, in which regimental Headquarters was establish- ed the first afternoon, was some nine kilometers within the German lines. The people of this town had been prisoners of the Germans since the early days of the Great War. Their sudden and unexpected release from captivity gave them cause for jubilation. Thiaucourt was shelled quite heavily by the enemy after they had been driven out. In the town the enemy had warehouses, which were captured, with quantities of clothing and ordnance intact. The enemy was undoubtedly engaged in further strengthening his positions when the offensive be^an. Spacious dugouts of concrete, reinforced with steel, a narrow gauge railway, rolling stock, cement mixers and large quantities of sand and gravel were captured. Big gun pits were in the course of construction. Many horses and some wagons were captured. This regiment was relieved during the night of September 1 5th- 1 6th by the 310th Regiment of the 78th Division and proceeded by march to Minorville and vicinity, where a number of officers reported from schools. On September 18th Lieut. Colonel Sibley was evacuated to hospital with eye trouble. Captain George K. Shuler assumed command of the 3rd Battalion. The regiment proceeded by march on the night of September 20th and arrived at Foug during the night, where Regimental Headquarters was established. The battalions were billeted in towns around Foug. Drill schedules were put into effect. One-day liberties were granted to the officers and men to TouL The regiment entrained on September 27th for a new area, arriving at Chalon-sur-Marne late in the afternoon. It detrained arid proceeded to Chopy, where Regimental Headquarters was established. The bat- talions were billeted in nearby towns. On the night of September 29th the regiment proceeded by camions to Somme-Suippes, where it detrained in a heavy rain. The regiment was now in the Champagne sector, which


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 33 Alpine Chausseurs, were aiding in this offensive. At the beginning of the offensive Suippes and Somme-Suippes, two fairly large French towns, were under shell fire. These towns had been evacuated of civilians since early in the war. The Germans who had occupied Suippes earlier in the war had mined practically all the houses of the town by discharging explosives in the cellars, blowing up the interiors, and while the town had the appearance of being in fairly good condition, the houses were mere shells. However, the town was used for billeting troops. During the afternoon of October 2nd the Stokes mortar and one- pounder sections were sent to aid the 96th Company on the left of the 2nd Battalion, to assist against the enemy's strong point at the junction of Boy-des-Hohenzoilem and principal parallels, from which their machine gun fire menaced the left flank. In substance, the following order was sent to all company commanders of the 2nd Battalion in the front line at 4-20 P.M .: "At 6:30 P.M. you will occupy, by infiltration, the trenches Du Pache. de 1'Elbe and D'Essen. Two platoons will be used initially, followed by the other two as sucrcssive trenches are reached. Consolidate and hold with two platoons in front trenches and two in rear." In addition the limits of each company's occupancy were clearly defined. This movement was executed as scheduled and the following message, written at 8 P.M ., from Lieut. Cates, commanding the 96th Company, and who had ihe difficult flank, explains the situation : "Attack a success. Few losses. Consolidated. Liaison with 78th on right and French on left. Everything in good shape. It Sad been planned to attack on October 2nd, but plans were changed, and 5 :30 A.M. October 3rd was set for the assault. The 2nd Battalion had greatly improved its position from which to attack when it connected up its lines in the changes in the afternoon of October 2nd. The regiment was to advance in three echelons to the north and west against the positions held by the enemy in the immediate front in trenches Pache and D'Essen, then a little west of north to include Blanc Mont. The 2nd Battalion was to lead with two frcnt companies in its front line and two in local support, followed by the 1st and 3rd Battalions respectively, at about 1000 meters, similarly disposed. Careful instruc- tions were given to guard the left flank for the entire advance to Blanc Mont and to maintain liaison with the infantry on the right. The 3rd Brigade, consisting of the 9th and 23rd Infantry Regiments, was to attack on the right of the Marine Brigade. The 5th Regiment, Marines, was to support this regiment. Packs were ordered to be left at the "jumping- off" place. The regimental commander gave the following instructions in a field order, regarding the use of rifles : "Impress all men with the fact that musketry is still KING and they have but to sit tight and shoot straight, insuring superiority of fire and guaranteeing success." There was to be a five-minutes' artillery preparation before the infantry attack, and a rolling barrage was to precede the infantry ai ttie


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Rh History ok Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines '}5 "From : CO. 3rd Battalion. 2 Oct. 12:10 P M. No. 10 Bv runner To CO. 1st Bn. 6th Regiment. My P.C. 267.2 —279.6. ;n trench. I am now getting mv lino established from 267.3 to 280.6 to 266.1 to 279.7 . Just received message from Williams stating enemy wa? circling left and askinc for help. At same time this message was received Mesaersmith, commanding 2nd Battalion r )th Marines, showed me his orde^ to immediately fill up any gap between 6th Marines and French on our left. Shuler." "From: CO. 1st Battalion at P.C 3Oct.18II:30A.M. No. II By runner! To: CO. 3rd Bn., 6th Mar.nes . Have reached our objective and consolidating line. 2vid Battalion on our left, 23rd Infantry on right. Left flank exposed. Except counter- attack. Have you seen 5th Marines? Let u< know your exact position of P.C. and your companies. Barker." "From : CO. 3rd Battalion. 3 Oct. II :53 A.M. No. 8 By runner. To : CO. 6th Regiment. The following message just receied from Major William-: "We need support on our left flank. The French havr not come up and our left is in the air. The enemy about 700 or 800 -tronp are eoing around our left and threaten an encircling movement. Can you eive u- an help?" I sent me c sage to Williams that I would give him support and asked his advice as to location for same. Between -ending that message and writing this one Messer^mith. commanding 2nd Bn. 5th Regi- ment, showed me his orders from Commanding Officer. 5th Recimen! To immediately fill in any gap between 6th Reciment and the french or. our left.' His order was to do so without lurther orders. I have sent Major Williams' runner to Messersmith to take back any message an'! have sent message to Major Williams informing him o! Messersmith*- orders. Shuler." "From : CO. 3rd Battalion. 3 Oct. I
 * 30 P.M. No. II

By runner. To: CO. 1st Bn. My companies disposed as sketch shows. According to your co- ordinates farthest point on my line is about 800 meters in your rear with good communication through trench D'Ausbourg. However, if you want line closer can move it forward. Give me any idea of where you would like my line to better support you. Shuler. " "From: CO. 1st Battalion. At P.C. 3 Oct. 18. 12:40 No. 13 By runner. To: CO. 3rd Bn.


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, L. S Marines. '57 up with the French. Water carts and ration carls with hot food were brought up to the men in the trenches during the evening. The work of the Quartermaster throughout the Champagne offenuve was very effective, hot food being supplied at least once a day. The 5th Regiment started to advance early on the morning of October 4th without artillery preparation. Heavy enemy artillery nre was encountered and after going about two kilometers further advance was impossible, because of terrific machine gun resistance. Major Messersmith, of the 5th Regiment, reported at 8 : 30 A.M .: "20th Company held up by heavy fire on left sector along road. The company needs assistance, and I have none to send. What can you do for us '* The message was referred to the 5th Regiment. It was planned for this regiment to advance at 2:30 P.M.; the 22nd Division, French, had advanced at 9:50 A.M. and had skirted Blanc Mont to the westward, leaving that stronghold in the hands of the: enemy. An error in a co-ordinance report had led to the belief that that stronghold was held by this reeiment. The following message was re- ceived from the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion : "From: CO. 2nd Bn. At PC. 4 Oct. 18. 1
 * 55 P.M. No.

I. By runner. To: CO. 6th Marines. The limits now actually held by this Bn. are eastern, 266.9 -- 28i.2; western 266.2 — 280 .7, instead of as previously reported. Lica- tion of barracks and roads on cur left flank (present) confused us with what should actually have been our left flank, about 450 n-.ettrs more to the left. The enemy consequently holds a gocd portion of B ! anc Mont and is about 150 yards distant from the line-, we hold along our eastern flank. 1 heir position here is heavily held with machine guns and exposure at this point in daylight hours subjects the men to heavy sniping from his position, which is as commanding as our own. The enemy covers the low ground in front of us with his machine gun fire and advance without heavy losses on this flank is impossible without heavy artillery preparation on his position on our left or until the French advance on our left and take this position. Our effectives are approximated a: follows : 78th Co.— 95, 80th Co.—60. 96th Co.—65. 79th Co.—65 Casualties in officers about 40 Wi'liams." This verified the fact that the Blanc Mont stronghold had not been reduced and was still a menace on the left. I he 3rd Battalion advanced at 2:30 P.M. until it approached the 1st Battalion, which was still in the vicinity of the ridge road, and halted. The 2nd Battalion was unable to advance on account of machine gun fire on the left. It was decided to concentrate heavy artillery fire on the enemy stronghold, after which the 3rd Battalion was to attack. At 4:35 P.M. the CO. of the 3rd Battalion sent the following message :


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Rh History ok Sixth Reciment, U. S. Marines. 39 •ine and 84th in support. At 7 -35 A.M. word was received from 82nd, 83rd and 97th Companies that their objective, that portion of Blanc Mont which had not already been taken, was reached, and that they were digging in. During this short engagement they captured four officers, 269 prisoners, 80 machine guns, and a number of trench mortars No casualties were sustained. In compliance with orders from Headquarteis, Second Division, the following order, in substance, was issued to all battalions at 8 :45 A.M.; "This regiment will be organized at once and be prepared to pass through »he 5th Marines when ordered. Order of battalions, front to rear. Williams (2nd); Shuler (3rd); Barker (lit)." Ammunition was issued. At 12:50 P.M. the CO. of the 2nd Battalion was ordered on the telephone, The 6th Regiment advances at once. Advance to St. Etbnne, keeping liaison with French on our left and the 3rd Brigade on our right. French have already advanced. Halt at St. Etienne and await orders." Later orders were given verbally to Major Williams to halt his battalion at ridge, northeast of St. Etienne. At about 3 P.M. the regiment moved forward, the 2nd Battalion leading, covering a sector almost a kilometer and a half in width. The regiment, by this time, had been greatly depleted by casualties. The 2nd Battalion had only i jf.w more than three hundred effectives on this wide front. On the left the objective of this new advance was attained. On the right a battalion of the 23rd Infantry was found to be in this regiment's sector. The commanding officer of this infantry battalion strongly advised Lieut. West, commanding the 79th Company, not to attempt a further advance because, he said, strong machine gun nests made progress without artillery preparation impossible and that his command had been badly cut up in trying to take the position. Lieut. West, however, attacked with his company, and was carried from the field severely wounded. Lieut. Catrs, of the 96th Company, took command on the right and drew back to the line held by the infantry. The Regiment Commander ordered a halt and not to attempt further advance. During the nig^t the 3rd Battalion relieved the 2nd in the first line and the 2nd Battalion moved back to the 3rd line. The 1st Battalion took position in the second line. AtIA.M , October 6th, time was moved back one hour. At I
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 * 30 A.M. the following field order was issued :

"Headquarters, 6th Regiment, Marine Corps, American E.F., France, 6 October 18. Hour I :30 A.M. FIELD ORDER NO. MAP— S.T.G.A. 1/20000. I. The enemy occupies three machine gun nests in the sector of this division about 500 yards north of our line.


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Rh History oi Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 41 days the light and heavy artillery of the enemy played at will upon the front line positions. The trenches, the position of which were known to him, battalion P.C.'s and the lines of communication were continually shelled. The enemy was able by direct observation to fire at men in the trenches and even to snipe at runners or any other target with their 88 cal. guns. This regiment suffered serious casualties from this fire. During the first two days that the hill southeast of St. Etienne was oc- cupied by the regimental front lines the troops of this regiment were continually harassed by machine guns. This continued shell fire told greatly upon the spirits of the men, who had been in the open for over a week without blankets, with a scanty supply of water and with but one warm meal a day. At I I A.M. Oct. 7th the 83rd Company reported that one of its platoons had found Germans in the trenches to the right cf the town and the following message, which was received from Lieut. Noble in charge of the platoon, was forwarded at 2 : 40 P.M. by the CO. of the 3rd Battalion to Regimental Headquarters: "It is estimated that at least two hundred of enemy are still in town, and more 3re seen filtering from over the hill into the town. It is believed that they are trying to filter in to the northeast end of town and drive the remaining French out. Their barrage did not play on part of town to the northeast of church. They occupy trench near the town, between us and the town. They are probably trying to strike the French right flank and later our left flank. It is believed necessary for the Americans to advance some troops (probably a battalion) to occupy trench between us and the town ns soon as possible, or else advance here soon. A. H. Noble." During the night of October 7th-8th the 1st Battalion of this regiment occupied the gap between the French and the left of this regiment mentioned in the message just quoted. The 76th Company of the 1st Battalion went into the town of St. Etienne with the 74th, 75th and 95th Companies in support. While occupying this position the 1st Battalion repulsed two strong counterattack?, during which it suffered many casualties, but inflicted heavy losses upon the *nemy. At 5 .05 A.M. October 6th the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion of the 1 42nd Regiment, whose battalion was in line with the 3rd Battalion of this regiment, and whose battalion was badly disorganized, received orders to attack at 5 :45 A.M., After a heavy barrage, that battalion, supported by tanks, advanced upon the German position. They cleaned out the machine gun nests on the right front and established a line east of St. Etienne about one kilometer from the "jumping off' position. They sustained very heavy losses, took some prisoners and became entirely disorganized This regiment did not advance. The physical condition of the men was becoming very bad, although the spirit was excellent. At 5 P.M. a very heavy barrage was placed just back of the new line established by the 142nd Regiment, producing a heavy concentration of high explosive gas. As a result the men holding that line retreated through the barrage and through the front
 * he objective being Courey.


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment. L. S. Marinks. 4i camp-, where rurlher orders were to be received from the IX Arms Corps. French: the Second Division was to provide the nece^-ary -ignal and medical -ervice to encble the Brigade to function independently This regiment marched during a cold rain to Suippe; and adjacent ramp-. where it billeted for the night, and early on the morning of October 2 ht. with .deal weather conditions. l>egan the march to LenWourt — Mozagran — Medeah Farm area. It was the intention to depose of the Brigade in the new area in proper position for taking over the line a- follows : 5th Regiment on the right; 6th Regiment on the left; each regiment in column of battalions; a machine gun company assigned to each battalion. Owing to the distance, approximately fortv kilometer 5 . and march conditions existing, all organizations did not reach their assigned positions on that date. It was arranged for the 5th Regiment to relieve the 367th R.I. in the right sector with two battalions and for the 6th Regiment to relieve the 556th R.I. in the left subsector with two battalions : The remaining two battalions were !o be held in re>ere it l.emncourt. Orders were issued for the preliminary reconnaissance of thi* sector on the night of 2lst-22nd October. At 8 :45 P.M. the Marine Brigade received the following telephone message through the 73rd D.I ., French: "Stop reconnaissance by the American Brigade. 1 he relief will be made; on the ?ame day but by the elements of ihe 36th Division. No change for the artillery." This regiment was ordered to remain in place after it had concentrated all troops within an assigned area. On Ocloher 22nd the Brigade was ordered to rejoin the 1st Army and to march to the area Sousin — Forthes and camps southward, thence to Valmy —Auve area. At this area orders were to be received from the American 1st Army, but while in the first named area orders were received from the Commanding General, Second Division, countermanding the movement, which indicated that the Brigade had rejoined the Second Division. These movements taxed the endurance of the troops to the utmost, but a very good idea was obtained as to the marching endurance of the Brigade. The units marched for eighty to one hundred and ten kilo meters in four days with one day of rest included, a l arge part of the march being made under Dad weather conditions. Remarkably few men were evacuated with foot trouble, hut on fhe last day about twenty p.r cent of the command marched with difficulty and conditions were begin- ning to grow c enous. The trouble was mainly due to English shoes. which had been issued just before leaving the Buoy area on the 20th of October. Replacements recently joined stood the marches very well, all things consideied. However this regiment could not have continued the movement by marching on the 24th of October without its combat elficiency being seriously effected. Regimental Headquarters was estab- lished at Camp Montpeher on Octob er 23jcL Here the men were allowed to rest, clean up and give attention to their feet after the strenuous hike. Three hot meals went far toward reviving the spirits of the troops.


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, L. S. Marines 45 Infantry in position on the hill a half kilometer north oi Lierrac* . 7W 1st Battalion took up a position in the vicinit) of .Sommerance Regimental Headquarters remained at Chaudron Farm until one P.M . of October 3 1 it, when it moved to the P.C. of the 166th Jnfantrv In accordance with a held order, Headquarters, Fourth Brigade, October 31st, 1918, the Regimental Commander assumed the command of the subsector formerly held by the 166th Infantr>. At about 10 P.M. of October 31st th~ battalion? of this regiment moved up into portion pre- paratory to the "jump-off' . E.nem> artillery was quiet and the move- ment was executed without difficulty. The 1st Battalion took a posit:o_» just in rear of the front line. The 3rd Battalion look a portion in the area just north of Sommerance; ai.d the 2nd Battalion took a position in a ravine one kilometer south of Sommerance The !iai>on detachment consisted oi the 95th Company of thia regiment, a company of the 80th D vision and a platoon of the 73rd Machine Gun Company. under command of .Major George A. Stowell This detachment took up a position on ihe left of the 1st Battalion. With the 1st Battalion on the front line, the 3rd Battalion
 * i

the second line and the 2nd Battalion in the third line, the revirr.er .t was to attack a' S • 30 A.M. November l.«t. Ihe feOth Division wa! on the left and the 5th Marines on the right. Oi.s regiment v. > • to advance in l north-northeasterly direction and was to capture t^ e towns of St. Georges, Landres et St. Georges. Landeville. Chene:} and Bayonville et Chennery. The objective for the first day > op^rj- lion was some nine kilometers from the "jump:ng-o'i place. Ihe terrain was roiling, broken by an occasional patch of wood?, consisting mostly of «tun»ed trees and underbrush. ITie enemy had artillery ,r i many of tot smalt rav nes which pa=>ed through hi* sector. TS«a amount of field artillery. French and American, u*ed in this prand offensive compered favorabl> with that of the St Milnel diue. especi- ally of 75and 103 . Allied batteries were fairly active throughout the iiisfil and it 3 :30 A.M. the two hours' preparation commenced Tlv- enerm countered to an appreciable extent. At about 5:30 A.M a stand::. 2 barrage was laid down in front of the jumping olf line and continued for ten minute?, and dunng that time the I :t Battalion of ihi« regiment moved up and formed for the "jump off". In makina thi- move the 1st Battalion lost one hundred me;i killed and wounded by ' .he enemt counterbattery work. At 5:30 A.M. the rolling barrage begin, fal- lowed closely b> the 1st Battalion. The 74th Comp<H' . this battalion was on the right and the 76th Company on the led ol the front wave, with the 75th Company in support, the 9itt. ( jmpmv being attached to the l aison detachment. Each of the two fr*il line companies had a platoon of the 73rd Machine Gun Compare itta fi-<:
 * s


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 47 commander to the 83rd Company. These tanks moved forward when the second advance began and kept up with the leading elements. Upon reaching the outskirts of Chennery, and while under the cover of the crest of a hill, it was found possible to maneuver the 83rd Company and tanks to flank a battery of four enemy 77 mm. guns. This battery was firing direct fire into the left of this regimental sector, and was taken completely by surprise from their left flank. One tank approached and covered the advance of a squad of riflemen and the skillful use of its one-pounder and riflemen's weapons compelled the surrender of one officer and r-eventy-five artillerymen who were manning the battery. As a result of this operation over two hundred of the enemy, from different points of the ravine, were observed retreating on the run to the wood northeast of Sivry. The three tanks upon attainment of the second objective went forward with the 2nd Battalion when the 2nd Battalion passed through the 3rd. Officers in charge oi ihe tanks co-operated in every way possible. The town of Bayonville was taken and organized, one hundred prisoners being taken. Under the charge of Major Schmidt, a captured medical officer, three German ambulances were put in operation, evacuating both American and German wounded after they had been propertly cared for. Captain Arold W. Jacobsen organized the town and supervised these operations. When the second objective was reached the 2nd and 1st Battalions passed through the 3rd Battalion, which followed as reserve battalion. The 2nd Battalion continued to its objective about three kilometers fur- ther. Upon arrival at the final objective patrols went forward to the exploitation line and met very little resistance. At 3:15 P.M. the following message was sent by the CO. of the 2nd Battalion to Regi- mental Headquarters

"We are on our objective. Front companies are adjusting line Stowell on left and have sent to 5th on right. Considerable machine gun fire being encountered from that part of the Bois-de-la-Folie still ^eld by the enemy. Casualties among the men not extremely heavy—officers about fifty per cent. Williams." During the advance Captain Kirt Greene, 80th Company was killed. The Regimental Headquarters was moved to Sommerance soon after the attack commenced, and when the first objective was reached the Headquarters moved again to Ferme den Dela, from whence it moved to Chennery. The day of November 2nd was spent in strengthening the position and reconnoitering the area to the front. The 79th Com- pany was pushed forward to the northern edge of the Bois-de-la-Folie on the morning of November 2nd, to the north side of the Nouart road. No serious resistace was met in this movement, but the %th Company on the left was held up by machine gun and one-pounder fire from the vicinity of Fme. de Maumes. On the night of November
 * nd sending exploiting parties ahead. Have liaison with Major


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 49 daybreak on the morning of the I Oth. This crossing was postponed and the troops went into bivouac. At 8:30 A.M. on November 10th the Regimental Commander and Lieut. Colonel Holcomb went to Brigade Headquarters, at Beaumont, to attend a conference relative to the pro- posed crossing of the Meuse. Upon completion of this conference the battalion commanders were assembled at the Regimental P.C. and to them was explained the tentative plan of the crossing, which was lo take place at 9:30 P.M. that night. The Brigade order for the crossing was received at 5:50 P.M. and copies were sent to the bat- talion commander in Bois de Fond de Limon. The battalions were on the march within ten minutes after the receipts of these orders. Th« enemy was shelling the roads leading to the br dge positions and the troops were forced tc make a detour of about a half kilometer, the leading battalion reaching the railroad yard near the river bank at 10:30 P.M ., where (hey were met by an officer of the 2nd Engineers who stated that one bridge was on the river bank ready to be put in position, but that the other bridge was not vet in readiness. He stated that the enemy had apparently located the bridge positions and had them well covered with machine guns. Major George K. Shuler, of the 3rd Battalion, after a conference with the other battalion commander.", detailed forty men to help the engineers, and sent the engineer lieutenant to the river bank to report when both the bridges were in position. Battalion commanders waited until 4:00 A.M . of November llth and as the second bridge was not ready at that time the troops were marched back to Bois du Fond de Limon as the day was breaking and there was no suitable cover for the troops in the vicinity of the bridge. In compliance with telephonic instructions from Headquarters, 5t Army Corps, transmitted through Headquarters, 4th Brigade, hostilities ceased at II .00 A.M., November llth. The most immediate effect that the signing of the armistice had upon the physical comtort of the men was that they were permitted to keep warming fires going nicht and day without fear of enemy observa- tion. ,, In addition to the ma ny evacua tions on account of sickness^ thifc. rejyimepr Tnst 5urajgjKe Argonne-IVieuse operation s. from~T^ vpnVL»r J ;L to November 1 lth. inclu sive, twenty-seven officers killed and wounded a nd four hundred and thirty - six men killed and wounded. ] he regiment captured great numbers of prisoners, cannon, machine guns, stores and war material of every description. A number of horses were also cap- tured. The Allied artillery had inflicted terrible damage upon th> enemy draft stock. The great number of dead horses which had not been struck also indicated that the rapidity with which the enemy re- treated had caused many of the animals to die from exhaustion. Great quantities of ammunition were left behind by the enemy.


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 51 at Ewerlingen; 2nd Battalion at Pratt; 3 company of the 3rd Battalion at Schandal; I company of the 3rd Battalion at Bowingen. About this time approximately one thousand replacements joined the regiment. The march was resumed at 7 : 30 A.M. on the morning of November 22nd. Route of march : Useldingen — Bowingen — Bissen — Berg. Trie regiment was billeted for the night as follows : Regimental Headquarters. Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 73rd M.G. Company and Supply Company at Nieder-Schieron; 3 companies of the 3rd Battalion at Crntchen; I company of the 3rd Battalion at Schrondweiler; 2nd Battalion al Etterbruck. The march was again resumed on the morning of November 23rd. Route of march: Schrondweiler — Medernach— Ermsdorf — Eppeldorf. The completion of this day's march brought the regiment to the German frontier, which according to the terms of the armistice, could not be crossed until December 1st. An outpost line was established on the west bank of the Sauer River and strong guards were placed at all bridges in order that no persons should be allowed to cross the river into Germany. In addition to these outposts, frequent patrols were made along the bank of the Sauer River from Dillengin to Reisdorl. The regiment was billeted for the night as follows : Regimental Headquarters. Headquarters Company, Supply Company, I company of the 3rd Bat- talion and 2 companies of the 1st Battalion, at Beforterheider; two com- panies of the 1st Battalion and 73rd M.G. Company at Bigelbach; 2nd Battalion at Reisdorf; 3 Companies of the 3rd Battalion at Dillingen. The following day, November 24th, owing to the scarcity of billets in the Regimental area, the 1st Battalion was withdrawn from the outpost line and sent to Mostroff, where it was held as regimental reserve: Battalion Headquarters and two companies of the 2nd Battalion were sent to Bigelbach; Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Company and Supply Company moved to Reisdorf. On November 25th the 97th Company joined the 84th Company at Beforterhaide in order lo relieve the congestion of billets in Dillingon. The regiment remained in this area until December 1st, during which time drill:: were held daily, al! equipment and transportation were thoroughly cleaned and overhauled and men and animals were given a much-needed rest. On the morning of December 1st, after supporting the 5th Regiineni in its crossing of the Sauer River, this regiment followed the 5th Regi- ment as main body of Column No. 2. 2nd Division, in the march toward the Rhine. Route of march : Wallendorf —Goichlingen — Rouerbur^ — Waxweiler. Regimental Headquarters crossed the Sauer River into Germany at about 9:00 A.M. of December 1st. The regiment wa* billeted for the night as follows : Regimental Headquarters. Headquar- ters Company and Supply Company at Ammeldingen; 2 companies of the 1st Battalion at Neurath; Battalion Headquarters and 2 Companies


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 53 o( the 3rd Battalion at Anchutte; I company of the 2nd Battalion at Hungersdorf. The march was resumed on the morning of December 7th. Route of march : Weisbaum — Udelhoven — Antweiler — Schuld. The Regi- ment was billeted for the night as follows : Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Company, Supply Company, 1st Battalion and 73rd M G. Company at Schuld; 2nd Battalion Headquarters and 2 companies of that battalion at Fuchshoven; 2 companies of the 2nd Battalion at Wm- nerath; Battalion Headquarters and 3 companies of the 3rd Battalion at lsul; I company of the 3rd Battalion at Dumpelfeld. The march was continued on the morning of December 8th. Route of march : Antweiler — Schuld — Ahrweiler. The troops were billeted for the night as follows : Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Com- pany, Supply Company, 3rd Battalion, Battalion Headquarters and 3 companies of the 2nd Battalion, Battalion Headquarters and 3 companies of the 1st Battalion and the 73rd M.G. Company at Neuenarh; I company of the 2nd Battalion and I platoon machine guns at Limersdorf; I company of the 1st Battalion and I platoon machine guns at Schelken- bach. On the morning of December 9th this regiment resumed the march. Route of march : Neuenahr — Sinzig — Brohl. Upon arrival at destina- tion an outpost line was established on the west bank of the Rh.ne from Niederbreisig to Namedy. The regiment was billeted as follows : Re- gimental Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, Headquar- ters and 2 companies of the 2nd Battalion and 2 platoons of the 81st M.G. Company at Brohl; the 1st Battalion and 73rd M.G. Company -it Namedy; 2 companies of the 2nd Battalion and I platoon of the 81st M.G. Company at Niederbreisig; the Supply Company two kilometers north of Brohl on the Brohl-Sinzig road. On the afternoon of December 10th the 74th Company of the 1st Battalion was sent to Andernach to establish a liaison post there with the 32nd Division, which was on our right. In addition to the outposts the entire western bank uf the Rhine was patrolled from Niederbreisig to Andernach. The regiment remained in this area for four days, during which time drills were held daily. On the morning of December 13th this regiment crossed the Rhine River and took up position in support of the 5th Regiment in the 4ih Brigade sector of the Coblenz bridgehead. The disposition of the troop of this regiment was as follows: Regimental Headquarters at Arien heller; Headquarters Company, Supply Company and 2nd Battalion ut Rheinbrohl; 3rd Battalion at Leutesdorf; Battalion Headquarters and two companies of the 1st Battalion at Niederhammerstein; one company of the 1st Battalion at Oberhammerstein, one company of the 1st Battalion and the 73rd M.G. Company at Leutesdorf.


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Rh History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 55 they turned in all equipment and arms, and at 10:00 a.m ., 13 August , 1919, were discharged from the Li. S. Marine Corpji. On March 26, 1927, the Sixth Regiment, composed of the First and Second Battalions, Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters Com- pany and Service Company, was reorganized at Marine Barracks, Navy Yard, Philadelphia, Pa., with Colonel H. C. Snyder in Command. The regiment was reorganized with the purpose of joining the Third Brigade on expeditionary duty in China, which brigade was undei com- mand of Brigadier General Sinedley D. Butler. On 30 Marchy the contingent from Philadelphia, numbering 57 officers, and tf tfflisted men, entrained for San Diego. California, on four trains, all of which arrived in San Diego by 5 April, 1927. Ad- ditional officers and men, from Parris Island, Washington, D.C. Norfolk, Quantico, Va., augmenting the regiment to a total of 71 Officers and 1185 enlisted personnel, joined the regiment at San Di^-go. California. During this period, the Brigade Headquarters and Headquarters Com- pany, Brigade Special Service Company, Aviation Units, and Detached Battery of Artillery, 1 0th Regiment, arrived at San Diego All troops embarked on the USS HENDERSON on April 6, 1927. and at 8:30 a.m., 7 April, the USS HENDERSON sailed from San Diego, with the entire contingent composed as follows : Sixth Regiment 71 officers 1185 enlisted Brigade Hdq. h Hdq. Co 7 „ 56 Brigade Special Service Co. 6 ., 99 Detached Battery Artillery. 10th Regt. 5 ., 128 Aviation Units 9 ,, 48 98 officers 1516 enlisted The USS HENDERSON arrived at Honolulu, T. H. at 3.45 p.m., April 15, 1927, and sailed from that port at 6 :00 a.m. . 16 April, tving up to the SOCONY INSTALLATION wharf, Shanghai. China. II :30 a.m ., 2 May 1927. Guards were established at the SOCONY INSTALLA HON. and on May 18, 1927, Camp Butler was established there, where all units, excepting the First Battalion, and Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters Company, encamped. In the meantime, the Third Battalion of the Sixth Regiment had l>een formed at Norfolk, Va., on 4 April, 1927, crossing the United States by train and joining the Second Battalion of the Fourth Regiment at San Diego, Calif. This contingent sailed from San Die^o on 17


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Rh MARINE COUPS liteiUiiioAL LI^ItARY History of Sixth Regiment, LT S. Marines. 57 On December 24, 1927, every available member ol the command was rushed to the Standard Oil Company installation, Tientsin, tu fight a fire which broke out. The hrc fighling was done under the personal supervision of The Commanding General, Third Brigade, who com- plimented the personnel highly on their eff orts -. On April 22 19215, th~ Sixth Regiment participated in ceremonies for the disbanding of the 12th Regiment, which had been formed from the original 3rd Battalion of the 6th Regiment and the 2nd Battalion of the 4th Regiment. The ceremonic* were held at the Race Course, Tientsin. After a 12th Regiment review, the original 3rd BattJion. Oh Regiment took if: place in the ranks of the Sixth Raiment a< such. This addition augmented the trength of the ret'im^nl to ikree battalions, Headquarters and Service companies, with a total ol ^ J oriiter> and 1707 unlisted men.


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10 10 History of Sixth Reciment, U. S. Marines. embussed in French camions and arrived that night at Outrepont. The 2nd Battalion entrained at Ancomont for Blesme, where it arrived that day, detrained and proceeded by march to Changy near Bar-le-Duc, at which point they arrived May 14th. On May 13th the Regimental Headquarters beean its movement and the 3rd Battalion was relieved on the night of the 13th by the 174th French. The Regimental Head- quarters and the 3rd Battalion arrived in the new area May 15th and Regimental Headquarters was established at Doucy, near Vitry-le- Francois. A training schedule was put into effect. While in this area a number of officers and non-commissioned officers were sent to the various Army training schools. On May 19th the regiment marched to Vitry-le-Francois, where it entrained for a new sector. It was thought at the time that a short train- ing period would ensue, after which the Second Division would relieve the First Division at Montidier. The regiment detrained at Parmion Isle Adam on May 20th. On May 21st the Regimental Headquarters was established at Serans, near Paris. These marches were very long and on account of the extreme heat taxed the endurance of the men to the utmost. From May 21st to May 31st the regiment remained in the vicinity of Serans and the troops were further instructed in French combat drills. The rainy season had ended and climatic conditions were ideal. Plans for relieving the First Division were cancelled May 30th and orders were issued for this regiment to make a quick move. The German attack on the Chemin-de-Dames had been successful and the Second Division was ordered to proceed by trucks to the Chateau Thierry area in order to support the French who were being driven back. The follow- ing memorandum was sent to all units of the regiment : "Advance information official received that this Regiment will move at 10 00 P.M. 30 May by buss to new area. All trains shall be loaded at once and arrangements hastened. Orders will fellow. Wagons when loaded will move to Serans to form train. By order of Colonel Catlin : F. E. Evans, Major, U .S.M .C, Adjutant." The regiment assembled at Serans and waited until about daybreak, when the camions arrived. Embussing was completed before 9:30 that morning, and the now famous ride, as the result of which the regiment was thrown into the breach which threatened the French capital, was begun. The military situation was extremely critical. The German objective was Pans. The armies of the Crown Prince were driving furiously between Soissons and Rheims. A vicious salient had been


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12 12 History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. open field east of the woods and north of La Voie du Chatel on the Lucv-le-Bocage road in order to escape the barrage which it was thought the enemy would put down on the Voie du Chatel at nightfall. At break of day the 3rd Battalion took up its former position. Heavy shelling during the day resulted in several casualties among the 3rd Battalion scouts and the 84th Company. About noon the 82nd Com- pany of the 3rd Battalion was sent to reinforce the front line northeast of Champillon. 1 his company had several casualties while taking up the position. At dark the 83rd Company and one platoon of the 73rd Machine Gun Company moved up and joined the 82nd Company south of Torcy', Major Sibley taking command of a portion of the line extend- ing for about one thonsand yards in an easterly direction. This line was in most places along the edge of the woods, at some points the enemy being in the same woods only fifty yards distant. Enemy artillery ana machine guns were active during the afternoon and night. The French continued to fall back through the lines of this regiment. The enemy could be seen tillering through the woods northeast of the Bouresches- Vaux railroad. He seemed to sense the presence of formidable troops opposite him, for his attempts to advance were not spirited. He was stopped with machine gun and rifle fire, and American artillery, of which there was now aplenty, did effective work. Several lounds, however, feel short into the 75th Company's position, causing five casualties. On June 3rd the enemy brought up more artillery and registered on the different positions of this regiment, which was by this trme fairly well interenched. On the morning of June 4th it was lound that the French had left a portion of the line to the right of that commanded by Major Sibley unoccupied. A portion of the 1st Battalion ot the 5th Regiment and some machine guns were sent to (ill the gap. The enemy artillery, machine guns and snipers were active during the entire day, bgt the casualties of this regiment were not htavy The 84th Company, which had been left in La Voie du Chatel, suffered some casualties from artillery fire. La Conse Farm was shelled with 1 50's on the afternoon of June 4th and the 80th Company, in reserve for the 2nd Battalion, suffered some casualties. The Battalion Headquarters and the reserve company were therefore moved to Bois de Clerembauts, about two hundred yards to the rear of La Conse Farm, where there was little shelling and no more casualties On June 5th conditions continued much the same a? on the pre- vious day. The day was spent in digging and strengthening the positions. During the early morning hours the enemy launched an attack, but was repulsed without serious loss to this regiment. After daylight and during the day the enemy was seen from time to time and the snipers of this regiment did elective work. American artillery also was effective. About 9 P M. on June 5th the following order was sent to Major Sibley. 3rd Battalion :


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14 ' 14 History or Sixth Reument, U. S. M amines. (b) Sector limits, 1st phase, left battalion : Northern : 262.8 Southern : 261 .2 Right Battalion : Northern: 261.2 Southern : 260.8 (c) The 2nd Bn. 6th Marines will advance its left to conform to the progress made by the battalion on its left. (d) Disposition of troops for the second phase. The position R. R. station BOURESCHES; BOURESCHES VILLAGE, Brook Crossing (173.9 -264 .1); Hill 126; Hill 133, will be taken by / the 3rd Bn., 6th Marines, on the right, the 3rd Bn. 5th Marines (less I Co.) in the center, and the 1st Bn. 5th and I Co. each of the 2nd Bn. and 3rd Bn. 5th Marines. (e) Sector limits, 2nd phase : 3rd Bn. 6th Marines. Northern: Hill 181; R. R. Bridge, (177.0 -261 .3) Southern: Hill 138— southern end of BOURESCHES Village. 3rd Bn. 5th Marines (less I Co.) Northern: Hill 133 to BOURESCHES-TORCY road at intersection with Y line 176. Southern: Hill 181; R. R. Bridge, (177.0-261.3) exclusive. 1st Bn. 5th Marines and I Co. each of 2nd and 3rd Bns. 5 Marines : Northern: Square wood to brook crossing (173.9-264.1) and Hill 126. Southern: From right at present position to Hill 133, exclusive. (f) The attack of the center and right of the second phase will be commanded by Colonel Catlin, 6th Marines. The attack of the left of the second phase will be commanded by Lieut. Col. Feland, 5th Marines. (g) The attack on the BOiS DE BELLEAU and on the village and railroad station of BOURESCHES will be supported by the 77th (M.G .) Co. The attack on the brook crossing (173.9 - 269.1) 126-133, inclusive, will be supported by the machine guns with the 1st Bn. 5th Marines. (x) The artillery preparation will be made in accordance with orders from the C. G.. 2nd F. A. Brigade, (y) The attack on BOiS DE BELLEAU will begin at 5 P.M. The second phase will begin as soon as the first phase has attained its objective.


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16 16 History of Sixth Reciment, U. S. Marines. machine gun fire and the conduct of officers and men alike was excellent. Captain Duncan of the 96th Company was killed by a shell just as his company started forward. 1st Lieut. Robertson assumed command of the Company, and with twenty-four men, the remainder of one platoon of his company, took the town of Bouresches after a hard struggle. The spin' of the men, including those wounded, was deserving of special mention. Shortly after the attack began Colonel Catlin was seriously wounded by a machine gun bullet and Lieut. Colonel Harry Lee assumed command of the regiment, establishing his P. C. at Lucy-le-Bocage. Liaison was maintained by runners and telephone. At/8 :45 P.M. Major Sibley, commanding the 3rd Battalion, sent the following message to Regimental Headquarters : "'Date: 6-6 -18 Hq. 8:45 p.m . To : Regimental Commander. Unable to advance infantry further because of strong machine gun positions and artillery fire. Have given orders to hold present position at far edge of woods. Losses already heavy. Await instructions. Sibley." In reply to this message word was received to dig in and hold ground gair.eJ. Major Holconib. commanding the 2nd Battalion, asked for reinforcements to aid in hu'dmg Bouresches, the detachment of twenty- four men. under 1st Lieut Robertson and Lieut. Cates, being insufficient. In the emergency, Major Sibley, without instructions, ordered to 84th and 97th Companies to advance from their position in the field into the town of Bouresches. They made the remlorcement at II :30 P.M. without meting resistance. The 2nd Battihon Headquarters was estab- li>i»ed about eight hundred yards southwest ol Bouresches and those of the )rd Battalion remained in the ravine near the 82nd and 83rd Com- panies; all companies being ordered to dig in. During the night 6th-7th June companies from the Second Engineers arrived and were assigned to position in the rear of the two batta ions holding the front line. I here was great difficulty with communications during this t.me . The telephone lines were frequently >hot uut and runners encountered gas in some areas. Water was available only by being carried in canteens along difficult routes. Some rations were dumped, but owing to scarcity of men only a few could b^ carried to the troops. I he men occupying Bouresches were able to get some rations 1 by Ford truck during the nieht. Ammunition, consisting of Chauchat, Springfield, pistol, flares and verj few grenad;s were brought up. The Engineers also brought up tools. During the night of 6th-7th the Bois de Belleau was under lively artillery fire most of the tirre. The cas from high explosive shells was very annoying. Early in the day of 7th


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18 Ift History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. many machine guns placed in a series of strong points, or forts, in such a manner that one flanked the other. Some of these strong points were located and a few of them surrounded and captured. It was decided that it would be impossible to carry these forts without artillery prepara- tion even by expending large forces. PUns were made to hold the ground gamed by withdrawing the troops sufficiently to gain cover and dig in. This was accomplished by II : 30 A.M. During the afternoon of the 8th the regiment was heavily shelled by enemy artillery, which caused some casualties. Word was received from Brigade Headquarter* that the enemy machine gun nests that had not been captured would be subjected to artillery fire and that the line of this regiment in that vicinity >hould be withdrawn slightly in order to avoid endangering the men. The followj/ig message was sent by the Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion : "Will have men under cover for artillery fire south edge of woods within one hundred and twenty-five yards of edge by 3 P.M. Regret to report officers and men are too much exhausted for further attack or strong resistance until after several hours' rest. Enemy shelling our position now. Damage not serious at present. Sibley." Ammunition was received during the day. Cold rations were carried to the men. It was then decided to relieve the 3rd Battalion with the 1st Battalion. These plans were changed, however, and it was finally decided to vacate the positions near 'he Woods entirely, in order to give the artillery a free hand in reducing the enemy strong holds. The 3rd Battalion, therefore, rendezvoused at daylight on the morning of the 9th in the Bois de Platiere. about two kilometers south of Marigny, and went into Corps reserve. Here the men of this battalion received the first hot food they had had since May 31st. Regimental Headquarters was moved from La Boie du Chatel to Maison Blanche on June 8th. The 2nd Battalion was relieved by the 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, on night 9th- 1 0th, and went into reserve in the woods east of Maison Blanche. On the night of June 9th the 1st Battalion moved up to assist in the attack on positions south of Bois de Belleau. Early on the morning of June 1 0th the attack was launched from the south with two companies in the front line and two in support. The objective was only partially gained, owing to the heavy machine gun fire of the enemy. It was renewed on June I I th and resulted in cleaning out the southern half of the woods, reaching the objective. Losses in this engagements were heavy. Captain Burns of the 74th Company and Captain Fuller of the 75th were among those killed. On the night June Mth-l2th the 2nd Battalion moved to La Sableonniere Woods, where they were held as Corps reserve. This same night the 3rd Battalion moved up into the woods N. W. of Lucy-le-Bocage, and the next afternoon at dusk they relieved a battalion of the 5th Regiment in the positions northeast of Hill 142.


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22 22 History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. Conditions were bad throughout the regiment. It was practically impossible tc send out water details and canteens were empty. The men dug in as well as possible, but digging was dangerous and the enemy fire increased the casualties rapidly. The 1st Battalion lost in killed Captain Kearns, 95th Company, Lieut. Burr of the battalion Headquarters, and Lieul. Redford, and in wounded Captain Turner, Battalion adjutant, and seven lieutenants. The 2nd Battalion losses were heavy. Onl> three company officers remained in that battalion when the regiment was relieved. Of ihe other officers Lieuts. John W. Overton and Charles V. Roy were killed while advancing at the head of their platoons. Ihe 3rd Battalion lost 39% ol its othcers. The regiment had entered the battle with an approximate strength of twenty- eight hundred men, three hundred and filty of these not being engaged. Of the twenty-four hundred and fifty men actually engaged there were thirteen hundred killed and wounded. The regiment was relieved about midnight of July 19th by Algerians and withdrew, remaining in reserve resting. While in bivouac near Translor Farm, July 20th, the regiment suffered .-. eve rai casualties from falling limbs of trees. The forest had been subjected to intense shell lire and branches and trunks of trees had been partly severed, and the breeze which sprang up caused many of them to fall. During the night the troops were also subjected to intermittent long range shelling from Austrian 1 30 s. Coming after the strenuous fighting, the shelling, ihe downpour of rain and the falling branches added greatly to the menial and physical exhaustion of the troops. The Quartermasters department issued some new ciothes while the regiment was resting in the back area. On July 31st the regiment marched to Nanteuil-le-Haudonin, where i t er.lrained for the Toul Sector. The regiment detrained August 1st at Nancy and from August 2nd to August 6th Regimental Headquarters was al Chaiigny. During this time the regiment was reorganized, cleaned up and rested. More clothing was issued, replacements joined and many casuals, men who had been evacuated to hospitals, returned. A number of enlisted men were commissioned and several of them sent to Army School at Langres. Augut 5th the regiment moved to Liverdun and on August 7th Regi- mental Headquarters was established at Dieulouard. The 2nd Bat- talion relieved the 340th French regiment in the trenches at Pont-a - Mousson, with the 1st and 3rd Battalions in reserve. The sector was a very quiet ore. On the night of August 8th-9th the enemy put down a box barrage on the right of the position held by the 2nd Bat- talion and everything pointed to a raid by them, but they did not penetrate the lines. Only two men were slightly wounded. Effective work at reconnaissance was carried out and patrolling was successful, but the ambuscades of this regiment met with no success. Apparently the enemy was content to rest with their own wire. There were no infantry


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360 this as a fair, legitimate, and inductively established average for all Bengal and Behar with their many millions, how fearful—how utterly appalling the aggregate amount of educational destitution!

In order still farther to complete and render more impressive our view of the utter inadequacy of the means of indigenous instruction, it is necessary to direct special attention to the literary condition of the adults. When the number of the juvenile population actually receiving any sort of instruction is so disproportionably small, compared with the number actually needing instruction, it might, as a necessary consequence, be anticipated, that a similar disproportion would be found in the respective numbers of the instructed and uninstructed adult population. And such a result, Mr. Adam, on entirely independent grounds, has ascertained and established, as the following table, partly extracted, and partly framed out of his materials, will abundantly verify:—

To this table we subjoin some of Mr. Adam’s appropriate remarks, both of a deductive and an explanatory character:—

“The total adult population is the population, male and female, above 14 years of age, including the students both of Hindu and Muhammadan schools of learning, as being generally above that age; and the instructed adult population is the total number of those who were ascertained to possess any kind or degree of instruction, from the lowest grade to the highest attainments of learning. The result is a natural consequence of the degree of instruction found to exist amongst the juvenile population, and is confirmatory of the proportions given in the last table. The Culna thana


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24 24 History or Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. methods of modern warfare. After arriving in France they were held for various periods of time in the training areas, where many of them were sent to schools for instruction in the diflerent specialities. A few non-commissioned officers with several years' experience who were taken from sh p duty and ether stations, were distributed among the replace- ments before ihcy left America. As a whole the replacements were as well trained as could be expected, and quickly became imbued with ihe spirit of the regiment. Preparations lor engaging the enemy were made during the after- noon of September Nth. Blanket rolls were stored in the woeds and men left to guard them. This detail was picked lrom the 20 o reserve which (vid been lelt behind. Stokes mortar, one pounder and pioneer troops/ from the Headquarters Company were distr.buled among the bat- talions. Ammunition, including -ille, Chauchal and VB bombs, was obtained and distributed. ihe tentative plan of attack was given to ihe battalion commanders, who discussed them wilh their company com- manders during the afternoon. The regiment was to move to the 'jumpirr-jf ph.ee, near Lme>. To early in the night as possible ind was «o he in position by one o'clock A Ah. September 12th, when th<; artillery prepaiation was to commence. The 1st Battalion and ihe 73rd Machine Gun Companv a. - a combat croup were placed on the left to maintain' iiaison between the 6")lh Division and the 23rd Infantry. receiving their nrders for th s cperalioi: f rom the C.C.. 3rd Brigade. The 3rd Battalion was placed on ihe right, the 2nd being in suppoit. Ahead of thi* regiment was the 23rd Infantry. The movement io the •umping oH place w.v made during a heavy rain and the road r - were muddv and blocked with traffic, but considering the immensity of the operation and the fact that the var ous units arrived in their places ac- cording to schedule, testified to the care with which the details had been previously worked out. The liaison between the units of this regiment and tho<e on either flank was quickly established and down to and including platoon commanders all oflicers were advised of their location with relation to all others. I he mission of the Marine Brigade was the general support of the 3rd Brigade in executing the divisions mission "first day" and to be prepaid to pass through the 3rd Br gade, advance to the line "2nd day and reconnoiter up to the exploitation line when ordered. The regimental limits were to be : Eastern — Lironville (exlusive); Limey (inclusive); Remenauville (exclusive); eastern edge ol the Bois de I'Eveque (exclusive); unimproved road northern edge Bois de l'Lveque to Th an- couri-Reanieville road ('ncln'ive); 1 hiaucourt (inclusive); north of Bois- du-Fey (exclusive^ — point 207.5 — northeast through Bois-du-Rupl — Bois -de-la-Montagne and Hill 310 3. all exclusive to exploitation I ne . The Western Limey (inclusive)— unimproved road extending north


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26 26 History ok Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. The artillery preparation started at I A.M. as scheduled and was intense. For (our hours the long range guns bombarded the enemy's back areas, while the lighter guns did terrific damage tc front line and support positions. During this four-hour bombardment the troops lay in trenches near Limey in the heavy rain. At 5 A.M. the 23rd infamry moved off from its "jumping-of?" positions and was followed by this regiment. There had been little response to the American artillery preparation, and when the attack started there was no indication that the infantry was meeting heavy opposition. Perfect liaison was main tained. The advance continued uninterrupted across the hills to the nortS of Limey and at 8:30 the front lines of the regiment entered the Bois Haie I'Eveque. The CO. of the 3rd Battalion sent the following message : "From CO. 3rd Bn. At P. C Date 12 September 16, 8:30 A.M. ToCO., 6th. Entering Bois Haie I'Eveque and still progressing. Sibley". In passing thiough the woods, some difficulty was encountered in maintaining liaison, but a halt at 9 : 30 enabled reorganization to be accom- plished. Casualties were light, all being from thell fire. The advance on Thiaucourt was uninterrupted. The town was reached about 3 P.M ., the 2nd Battalion passing through the town. The 3rd Battalion skirted the town to the west. The 82nd and 97th Companies of the 3rd Battahon had become somewhat detached. The 2nd Battaliop took up a position north of Thiaucourt, after reorganizing. The following mes:age from the CO. of the 3rd Battalion indicates the position taken by that battalion and its condition : "From: C O., 3rd Bn. At PC. Date: 12 Sept. Hour: 4:00 P.M. No. 5. To: CO., 6th. About an hour or two or more ago we passed to the north of Thiaucourt and took up position about 1000 yards behind 23rd Infantry with the two companies that remain with us. Enemy began shelling our lines, and infantry fell behind us. Now are in position again. Our two missing companies have just reported in, and are being placed. However, all units are badly disorganized and out of position. We need rations if possible, some ambulance's for a few wounded, and counter artillery work. Artillery has been silent for several hours. Sibley."


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28 2H Hisrom of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 1 he 3rd Battalion made the relief as indicated in the order sent to ail company commanders of that battalion, as follows : "From: CO. 3rd Bn. At : P.C. 13 Sept. 1918—6:00 P.M. No. 6 . To: C.O.'s All Companies. In accordance with Regimental Orders the companies of this battalion will take over position as reconnoitered this P.M.; 82nd Co. right front line, 83rd Co. left front line, 84th Co. left support, 97th Co. right support. This will be accomplished at dusk and completed at dark. Report to these headquarters as soon as relief is, completed. One platoon of the 15th M.G . Co. will support ^{ght front Co.; another will support left front Co.; and another will be in reserve. Stokes mortar and one-pounder detachment will remain in reserve and will occupy position now held for present. By order of Lt. Col. Sibley : David Bellamy. Adj.'" This relief was completed before midnight. Patrols were sent out and liaison was established. The onl> activities were those of patrols, although the enemy attempted intermittent harassing lire. In compliance wi.h orders from the 4th Brigade Headquarters, rece.ved on the afternoon of September Nth. two companies were sent out from the 1st Battalion lor the purpose of establishing outposts on the northern edge ol the l>ois de la Montagne and the woods to the west on the road Xarrmes- Cherey. The following field message was sent: "from: CO. 6th Marines. P . C Ihiaucourt. 14 Sept. 18. 5:40 P.M. Io: CO. 3rd Battalion Operations Memorandum l'o. 2. In compliance with verbal instructions from the Brigade Com- mander you will advance your line to the Army Line this evening as soon as light conditions are favorable. By this line is meant the high ground in your front extending from a point northwest of Jaulnev to the north of Xammes. Arrange the disposition of your local supports to suit the terrain and your own judgment. The 1st Battalion of this regiment is under orders to execute a reconnaissance to a point about two (2) kilometers to the front, and a • :opy of the memo is herewith enclosed for your information Lee." In reply to the above the following message was received from the CO., 3rd Bn. : "From : CO. 3rd Bn. at P C, date 14 Sept. 18. To : CO., 6th Marines.


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30 30 History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. line from the north edge of Bois-de-Halbat to Bois-de-la-Montagne and to establish liaison with this regiment, which was on the left of the 5th. The 89th Division was ordered forward. This regiment was ordered to establish combat liaison with the 5th Regiment on the right and 89th ivision on the left. The following held messages from Regimental Headquarters were sent to the C.O.'s 2nd and 3rd Battalions : I "From : CO. 6th Marines at P.C . Thiaucourt, 15 Sept. 18 2.12 A.M. To:. CO. 2nd Bn. 6th Marines. f You will proceed immediately with your Bn. and M. G. Co. north and occupy the line from Xammes-Charey road eastward across the southern edge of the woods lying between Xammes and Charey alomj the unimproved road running east and west through the Bois-de-la-Montagne and the X — line 244.3 from Hill 231.3 . Lee." "From: CO. 6th Marines at P.C Thiaucourt, 15 Sept. 18 2:15 A.M . To. CO., 3rd Bn., 6th Marines. Things seem to be going well up at the front. The 6th Infantry (5th Division) is digging in at Rombercourt. T he 89th Division is ordered forward. The 5th Marines are holding outpost line from Bois-de-la-Montagne east. The 6th (1st Battalion) is holding line north edge Bois-de-la-Montagne and woods to west. » Barker's other two companies are moving forward to reinforce him on that line. Williams is moving up to south edge of Bois de-Ie- Montagne. You remain on Army Line in reserve. Lee. 1" The troops were moved to the positions indicated and encountered the enemy in the Bois-de-la-Montagne and in the woods to the west. After skirmishing throughout these woods the enemy was driven north. When this regiment occupied the north edge of the woods, it was con- fronted with strong machine gun positions located in the works just north of the small works to the north of the Bois-de-fa-Montagne and Mont- plaisir Ferme. Several pill boxes were taken in the wire east of Mont- plaisir Ferme. During the first of this advance the enemy was unable to use his artillery with effect because of his lack of knowledge as to the loca- tion of his own troops. For a time the left flank of this regiment was in the air on account of the 89th Division failing to advance. After some difficulty the lines were connected. The enemy made three heated counterattacks before nightfall, but was repulsed. Each of these attacks was preceded by brief but violent artillery preparation. These attacks • were directed against the positions of this regiment in the north of woods.


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32 32 History ok Sixth Regiment, U. S. Makines. was one of the last of the old German lines, well fortified, and held with determination by the enemy in view of its strategical value. The regi- ment marched to trenches near Suippers, where it bivouaced for the night. In .-p ite of the early autumn chill and the rain, the men slept for several hours on the wet ground. At noon hot rations were served and the spirits of the men revived. This position, which the French had con- structed as a part cf their reserve defenses, was occupied until late in the afternoon of October 1st, when the regiment was ordered forward to relie e the French in the front lines north of Somme-Py. Twenty per cent of the regiment was left behind in compliance with divisional orders. Ammunition and pyrotechnics were picked up on the march, which was for twelve kilometers, on roads blocked with traffic. The 2nd Battalion took over the first of four parallel lines of trenches, De Krefeld, the companies being placed from right to left, 79th Co., 80th Co. and 78th Co. The 96th Company on the left occupied the Bayou de Bromberg. Between the 96th Company and the 78th Company the enemy held trench De i'Elbe. More in advance the enemy also held trench Du Pache, trench de I Elbe and trench D'fZssen, and annoyed the companies of the 2nd Battalion with his machine gun tire Liaison was established between the French on the left and the 2nd Battalion, French troops being inter- mingled with the 96th Company. On the right of the 2nd Battalion was the 1st Battalion of the 5th Marines, Major George W. Hamilton commanding, in trench Des Prussien. The 1st Battalion, of the 6th Regiment, took position 800 meters in rear of the 2nd Battalion, with the 73rd Machine Gun Company attached for combat purposes. The 3rd Battalion took position 1000 yards in rear of the 1st, in trenches Dusseldorf and Gottingue. The 15th Machine Gun Company was at- tached to the 3rd Battalion. This sector, the scene of many previous hard-fought battles, had been subjected to heavy artillery fire for months, which, added to the natural condition of the terrain, produced a condition of unusual barren- ness and devastation. The surface soil was very thin and the network of trenches and shell craters had turned to the surface the chalky earth which underlay it. There was little vegetation, and what there was consisted mainly of stunted trees, practically all of which had been cut by shell fire. Blanc Mont, in the rear of the German front line, was a commanding emminence with sufficient foliage to conceal troop movements. It was known to be strongly fortified with machine gun nests and well- constructed trenches dug into the chalk rock and strengthened with con- crete. The troops had not been in the trenches but a few hours when they were covered with the white mud, which, when it dried, turned to an annoying powder. Blanc Mont was the keystone stronghold of the entire sector. If taken, the Germans would be forced to evacuate Rheims and the Laon district. This stronghold was directly in this regiment's area. In addi- tion to the Second Division, choice French units, consisting partly of


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34 34 History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. rate of 100 meters in four minutes to the objective, where a standing barrage was to be put down 300 meters beyond the objective for thirty minutes, when a rolling ban-age was to continue for 1400 meters further for the support of patrols and to enable outposts to be established. One company of tanks, twelve in number, was assigned to the 2nd Battalion and twelve tanks to the 1st Battalion in the second line taking position in rear of the right and left flanks to repel counter attacks. The regiment attacked as scheduled, but the French on the left failed to advance. Progress was excellent. Machine gun fire directed at the 2nd Battalion as it cleared the parallel of departure caused some casualties. For a short time the enemy put down a counterbarrage, but shortly began moving back their guns, and artillery opposition became feeble. Mlie American barrage was excellent and the men of the leading battalion followed it closely, even risking approaching too closely in order to silence an occasional too troublesome machine gun. Many enemy machine guns were encountered, but they failed to hinder the advance. At 8 :30 A.M. the CO. of the 2nd Battalion sent the following message : "Objective reached at 8 30 A.M. Position now being consolidated. From first information casualties appear to have been light and bag of prisoners good. Spirits of all very high. Barrage was beautiful. Williams." Owing to the fact that the French had not advanced on the left, that flank was left exposed and unsupported, except through measures taken by echelons of this regiment. Conditions developed as indicated in the following messages, which also explain the situation at the end of the first phaoe of the attack : "From : CO. 3rd Battalion. 3 Oct. II :43 A.M. No. 7 By runner. To : CO. 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines. I have ordered my 84th Co. to take up position extending from our left line northeast to 266.5 —280 .0. My line extends from our left line northeast to 266.3 — 280.0. My line extends from there to 267.6 — 280 3. 1 can help you support the left. Advise me what position would be best. Will you inform this runner of the location of Barker's P.C and disposition of his companies if possible? Shuler." "From : CO. 3rd Battalion. 3Oct. II:50A.M. No.9 By runner. To : CO. 2nd Bn. 6th Marines. Officers from 2nd Battalion 5th Regiment just came here and showed me orders for Messersmith to rill in gap between 6th Marines on left and the French. He is proceeding to do so. Shuler."


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36 36 History of Sixth Reciment, U. S. Marines. 1st and 2nd Bns. on front line with no support. In need of a support line. Can you help us out? Barker." Enemy machine guns, one-pounders and mortars on the left open flank proved very troublesome. Realizing that the advance was at an end, enemy artillery again took position to the front and their pieces of 88 caliber proved troublesome. Tanks assisted some in repelling a counter- attack on the left. The machine gunners of this regiment proved equal to the counter-blow, which was repulsed, enemy losses being heavy. A summary of the various phases of this advance shows that the following situation had developed. The advance of this regiment had been un- interrupted to the objective on the Blanc Mont ridge and when the French oji the left had failed to advance, leaving an exposed flank, the leading, battalions of this regiment, in order to keep in touch with the Brigade on the right, had veered slightly to the right, and the dense woods on and approaching Blanc Mont had not been cleared of enemy machine guns. It was to protect this flank that the line of the 3rd Bat- talion was swung in a partial semicircle as support to the left as indicated »n the preceding messages. During the afternoon the 22nd Division, French, crossed the rear of this regiment from the right and began cleaning up the woods on the left flank, from which a great deal of machine gun fire had continued to enfilade the left positions of this regiment. Elements 107th Division, French, also came up in support. The following order was issued from the Headquarters of the 6th Regiment at 3 :45 P.M. "Information has been received that the French division on our left has advanced. Our division will move forward at about 4 :00 P.M . and occupy the ridge to the eastward and southeastward of St. Et .enne. The 5th Regiment will pass through the 6th Regiment in its present position and will advance to the new objective. When the 5th Regi- ment has passed through the Bns. of this regiment will immediately reform and be prepared to follow the 5th at a distance of about I kilo- meter should their advance make that necessary. This reg ment will advance in column of Bns,. in the order — Barker (1st), Williams (2nd), Shuler (3), and will assure the pr6tection of the left flank of the 5th Regiment. Should the rear Bn. of the 5th Regiment not advance more than one kilometer from the present position, this regiment will remain in place and assure the protection of the left flank. Lee." The advance of the 5th Regiment as described in this order did not, however, take place on this date. It was effected on the morning of October 4th. The advance met with determined resistance and the elements of the 6th Regiment on the ridge east of Blanc Mont and the 5th Regt. advancing to the north of this ridge were subjected to terrific machine gun fire from Blanc Mont woods. The left flank was protected . during the night of October 3rd-4th by liaison patrols which connected


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38 38 History of Sixth Reciment, U. S. Marines. From : CO. 3rd Battalion. 4 Oct. 18. 4:35 P.M. No. 3. By runner. To CO. 6th Regiment. It is impossible to clean out Blanc Mont without adequate artillery preparations. There has teen no real heavy artillery fire put in the wcods up to the present lime. They are now firing an occasional seventy-five, which is not effective. Machine guns are firing from there all the time. It is strongly held. I have ordered CO. 97th Co. to use his judgment about taking machine gun nests. It will require a heavy concentration to properly prepare for an attack. A concentration of one half kilometer around the words 'Blanc Mont* (Tachurc map 1/20,000) would be right. Will call you up as soon as phone is working. Shuler." Verbal messages were delivered to the companies near Blanc Mont "Fall back to road; if possible at 6:30 P.M." The companies fell back, but only after they had captured some machine gun nests. The assault was deferred until the next day, and during the night a harassing fire was kept up in order to demoralize the enemy. At 5:15 a con- centration of 155s, lasting an hour, was placed in the woods. The following order was issued at 9:27 P.M ., October 4, 1918: "Headquarters, 6th Regiment, Marine Corps, A.E .F ., France, 4 Oct. 18. FIELD ORDERS 1. The enemy has established a machine gun nest on Blanc Mont. 2. The 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, will attack and drive the enemy from thi3 position. 3. (a) Artillery preparation with 155's and 75's will be given between 5:15 A.M. and 6:15 A.M., 5 October, firing on the area included between the points 265.79—281.0; 266.04—281.12; 265.9 — 280.3; 266.2 —280 .4; and after 6:15 A.M. artillery will rake woods to the north of this area. (b) The 3rd Battalion will be in position to attack at 6:15 A.M. and will attack as soon as the artillery fire shifts to the north of the occupied area. 4. Messages to present P.C of 3rd Battalion and thence by tele- phone to Regimental P.C Lee. Copies to: CO. 1st Bn. 6th Marines; CO. 2nd Bn. 6th Marines; CO. 3rd Bn. 6th Marines; CG. 4th Brigade; CO. 5th Mannes; CG. 22nd Div. (French); 170th Inf. (French)." In accordance with this order the 3rd Battalion attacked at 6:15 A.M ., advancing on left flank from the east; 97th, 82nd and 83rd on


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40 40 History of Sixth Regiment, U. S. Marines. 2 Tne 3rd Baftalion. 6th Marines, operating in conjunction with the 2nd Battalion of the 23rd Infantry on its right, will attack and capture or destroy the enemy and occupy the position. 3 fa) The attack begins at 6:30 A VI. and is preced by one hour's artillery preparation as indicated in artillery program attached. At b : 30 A.M. an artillery barrage will move forward to the line indicated in the artillery program, where it remains until 7 :00 A.M. (b) Boundary limits — eastern : the eastern limit of regimental sufb- ?ector. Western : western limit of division sector. (c) Lpon obtaining the objective the troops will consolidate the line indicted in red in attached sketch. 4.- Messages to Regimental P.C . Lee.'* The 3rd Battalion was to advance to the second line of trenches east of St. Etienne. The advance was begun at 6:30 A.M., October 6th, and an hour 'ater the objective was reached. Hie casualties in the battalion were approximately 35 to 40% of the effectives engaged, mostly trom machine gun fire. After the attack liaison was established on the right with the 23rd Infantry and on left with 62nd Reeiment (French). At 3 :00 P.M.. however, the French evacuated St. Etienne, leaving the left flank exposed. The battalion commanders were ordered to furnish guides for the different platoons of the 142nd Infantry, 36th American Division, which was to relieve this regiment. This was the first time the troops of the 36th Division had been in the lines and although the 142nd Regiment arrived at the positions held by this regiment during the night of October 6th. this regiment was ordered to stand fast until further orders. All units of the 1 42nd were in place with the units of this regiment by 6 A.M. October 7th. During the night of October 6th-7th combat liaison was established with the French troops on the left, who during the night reentered St. Etienne. The French commanding officers informed the commanding officer of this regiment that his regiment held all of the town, and that his right was near the cemetery to the east of the town. He also requested that the gap between his right and the left of this regiment be closed up by troops of this regiment. On the morning of October 7th patrols and scouts were sent out from the 3rd Battalion to obtain information regard- ing the width, depth and character of the banks, of the small stream running through St. Etienne; also information as to whether the enemy had withdrawn from this regimental front. These patrols reported that the stream was narrow and that the banks afforded easy crossing. From the continual shell fire and machine gun harassing to which the front lines of this regiment were continually subjected, it was evident that the enemy was still in contact with this regiment. In fact, for three