In June of 1918, a division of brave Marines was sent to support the French army at the Battle of Belleau Wood. Captain Lloyd Williams was serving as a company commander of the 51st Company, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines. As the Marines arrived, they found their allies- the French troops, retreating. When ordered to withdraw by a French Colonel at the defensive line, Williams bluntly responded: "Retreat Hell! we just got here!" The fearless company of Marines took Belleau Wood, and the astonished German soldiers bequeathed them with the moniker by which they are still known today... 'DEVIL DOGS'.
Indeed, the United States Marines will forever be identified with the highest, most fearless traits a fighting force can possess.
Williams bravery was evident up until his last breath, as recorded by a French Major at Belleau Wood. According to the French Major's report, Williams was heard shouting at the approaching medics as he lay dying on the battlefield, “Don’t bother with me. Take care of my good men!" Captain Williams was posthumously promoted to Major, and was the first Virginian to die in WWI.
Video and photos Courtesy of Pixabay, and the National Archives. Music 'Into the Depths' courtesy of Jingle Punks.
"Over There' by Nora Bayes Public Domain.
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www.bobwelsh.com
Негізгі бет Belleau Wood
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