MONTSEC HILL AMERICAN MEMORIAL

The Montsec American Memorial commemorates the reduction of the Saint-Mihiel Salient by the First U.S. Army in September 1918. It also pays tribute to the other U.S. Army divisions that fought in the region as well as in Alsace and Lorraine. The memorial complements the American cemetery in Thiaucourt, where 4,153 of these fighters are buried.

The site of the hillock of Montsec has been occupied since the 5th century BC as a strategic point offering an unobstructed view of all the surroundings. This strategic asset would be reused by the German forces when they took possession of the territory of the Saint-Mihiel salient at the start of the First World War. After the conflict, it will be decided to install this monument there commemorating the successes and the sacrifices of the American soldiers who fought in the region in 1917 and 1918. Inspired by the Tholos of Greek antiquity, this imposing monument features a relief map in its center, illustrating the military operations that took place there. Several inscriptions are engraved there such as the name of towns and villages in the region liberated by American troops in 1918.

This site is the property of the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), custodian of American cemeteries and memorials overseas, which honors the service, actions and sacrifice of the United States armed forces. In addition to maintaining its sites with the utmost care, ABMC's mission is to provide visitors with a moving and informative experience; preserve and share the stories of the dead so that they are not forgotten.

The site is accessible free of charge. Free guided tours by reservation are also available.