Photo By Staff Sgt. Noah Sladek | Current and former Marne Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division (3rd ID) and military...... read more read more
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WASHINGTON, D.C. - A commemoration ceremony was held to honor the 106th anniversary of the Battle on the Marne River at the 3rd Infantry Division (3rd ID) Memorial monument, located in the Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, July 15, 2024.
The ceremony, hosted by Outpost International 5845, Society of the 3rd Infantry Division, was attended by military leaders and attaches as well as veterans, proclaiming proud commitment to preserving the history of the division.
“Our country's brotherhood in arms has been in existence for over 250 years now, bound by bloodshed,” said Maj. Gen. Bertrand Jardin, a French defense attache. “Today’s ceremony attests to the long history and the robust relations that France and the United States share. Relations based on mutual trust and respect.”
The Battle on the Marne River took place during the Second Battle of the Marne in WWI. In the course of this last German offensive, they began crossing the river on the morning of July 15, 1918 only to be halted by continuous fire coming from the 3rd ID’s Soldiers holding their position. Because of the tenacity and strength the Soldiers displayed in halting the Germans, they were given their nickname - “Rock of the Marne.”
Following the successful defense, the 3rd ID would go on to fight in the counteroffensive on July 18, 1918. This counterattack pushed the Germans back and was instrumental in turning the tide of the war in favor of the Allies.
U.S. Army Col. Stephen A. Fairless, 3rd ID Chief of Staff, spoke about the significance of commemorating such anniversaries as this one.
“Since those bloody days of July 1918, the 3rd ID has fought, bled, defended, liberated, conquered and innovated its way into the proud annals of the United States Army and of our nation,” Fairless remarked. “During World War II, Korean War, Desert Storm and the Global War on Terror, Dogface Soldiers of each generation have proudly worn and represented this famous blue and white patch, in doing so they have honored the legacy of those who fought in the Second Battle of the Marne.”
After the conclusion of the commemoration ceremony, a wreath laying ceremony was held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor the sacrifices of the Soldiers who fought during the Second Battle of the Marne and throughout WWI.
“The Battle on the Marne River was foundational for our (3rd ID) identity,” said Fairless. “Certainly the battle led to our motto - “Rock of the Marne.” With that legacy and how hard those veterans fought and distinguished themselves, the 3rd ID proved we were equal to stand next to the Allies and were worthy opponents.”
By reflecting on these historic achievements, the 3rd ID continues to preserve its rich legacy and uphold the values that have defined its storied past.
| Date Taken: | 07.15.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 07.24.2024 10:17 |
| Story ID: | 476251 |
| Location: | ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 37 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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