Montfaucon American Monument

Montfaucon American Monument
United States
Montfaucon American Monument
For American victory in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive during World War I.
Unveiled	1 August 1937 inaugurated
Location	49°16′21″N 5°8′30″E / 49.27250°N 5.14167°E / 49.27250; 5.14167 (Montfaucon American Monument)
Designed by	John Russell Pope

Montfaucon American Monument is a monument commemorating the American victory in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive during World War I. It is located in Montfaucon-d'Argonne in Lorraine, France. The American Battle Monuments Commission maintains the monument.

The monument is made of a large Doric-style granite column, on top of which stands a statue symbolizing liberty. The monument was built near the ruins of the ancient village, destroyed during World War I. It commemorates the American victory during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive of 26 September 1918 to 11 November 1918, during which the United States army forced the German army to retreat. On the walls of the foyer is an account of the battle. The monument overall pays homage to the troops who served there. The observation platform of the memorial can be reached by ascending two hundred thirty four stairs, and offers a view of the battlefield.

The monument was inaugurated 1 August 1937, in the presence of the President of the French Republic, Albert Lebrun. Franklin D. Roosevelt, then the President of the United States, delivered a radio address for the ceremony from Washington, DC.

Ruined church at Montfaucon-d'Argonne directly behind the monument. The blocky structure on the left is a German World War I observation post.

Verdun, Montfaucon, American Monument, American Cemetery