battle of the somme

3 articles

Sep15

1916Which monument in France is dedicated to all the men from the Tank Corps who fell during the Great War?

The Tank Corps Monument at Pozières, France, stands as a tribute to all the men of the British Tank Corps who fell during the Great War. Unveiled on 22 July 1922 by Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Morland, this memorial marks the site where tanks were first used in combat during the Battle of Flers-Courcelette on 15 September 1916, forever changing the nature of warfare. The monument features four scale models of original tanks and is uniquely enclosed by a fence made of genuine tank gun barrels and driving chains, a nod to both the technological innovation and the sacrifice of those who served. Today, it continues to draw visitors eager to reflect on its history and the dramatic impact of armored vehicles in World War I.

Aug13

1916What is the significance of Mouquet Farm, France to the Australian Imperial Forces in 1916?

Mouquet Farm, located just west of Pozières in France, became a crucial battleground for the Australian Imperial Forces during six weeks of intense fighting in 1916. The attempts to seize this German stronghold were seen as instrumental to the Allies' larger objective of capturing Thiepval, but despite mounting 19 separate attacks by three Australian divisions, the farm remained in German hands until later British advances. Over 50,000 Australians took part in the assaults, suffering more than 11,000 casualties specifically in the battles for Mouquet Farm. Now commemorated by a memorial plaque unveiled in 1997, the battlefield stands as a somber tribute to the extraordinary endurance and sacrifice of the Australian troops during the Somme offensive.

Jul1

1916What is the significance of the Battle of the Somme for the Newfoundland Regiment?

The Battle of the Somme holds deep significance for the Newfoundland Regiment, whose brave soldiers faced unimaginable loss at Beaumont-Hamel, France, on July 1, 1916. While most Canadians mark Canada Day, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians observe Memorial Day to honour the nearly 90% of their regiment who became casualties in a single morning. Of the 800 men who advanced, only about 68 answered roll call the next day, leaving an indelible mark on the province's history. Today, the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial—a striking bronze caribou atop Newfoundland granite—stands as a testament to their sacrifice and resilience.