The Battle of Saint-Mihiel salient has been the first American offensive in WWI.
German armies , being aware of the preparation of the US attack , had retreated in good order , leaving few forces on the front line.
The German retreat started on 11 September and the next morning the Americans attacked with two Corps ( I & IV Army Corps).An heavy artillery barrage from 2,900 guns (many French) as well as a force of French tanks and a French Colonial Division backed up the attack.
Being caught by surprise while withdrawing to the Hindenburg line, the Germans were outnumbered and their positions collapsed. After 36 hours, the Americans had taken over 13,000 prisoners and captured 466 guns. 5,000 Germans were killed or wounded while the Americans suffered 7,000 casualties.
With the salient eliminated, Marshal Foch ended the American offensive. The victorious troops were moved to the Argonne Forest to participate to the final fight before the Armistice.
THE DOUGHBOYS ATTACKING THE SAINT-MIHIEL SALIENT
