Château-Thierry American Monument

The Château-Thierry American Monument is a World War I memorial that was dedicated in 1937. It is located near Château-Thierry, Aisne, France. This important monument helps us remember the brave people who served during the war.

Architecturally, the monument is a good example of a style called Stripped Classicism. It stands as a lasting sign of honor and respect for those who worked to protect peace.

Situation

The Château-Thierry American Monument stands on Hill 204. It has a wide view of the Marne River valley. It is about 54 miles (87 km) east of Paris, 4.5 miles (7.2 km) southeast of the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial, and 17 miles (27 km) southwest of the Oise-Aisne American Cemetery and Memorial. The monument honors the brave actions of United States soldiers who fought in this area during World War I.

In 1918, the 2nd and 3rd United States Infantry Divisions fought in battles around this region during the Second Battle of the Marne. The 4th Marine Brigade was part of the 2nd Infantry Division. The memorial has two stone pillars at its entrance from Highway N-3, which connects Paris to Château-Thierry. Designed by Paul Philippe Cret, the monument has a double colonnade atop a long terrace. Sculptures on the west side represent the United States and France, created by the French-American artist Alfred Bottiau. The east side displays a map of American military operations in the area and an orientation table showing important battle sites. The Belleau Wood US Marines monument can be found close to the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery.