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pershing place
Remarkable leadership and courage guiding the American Expeditionary Force in World War 1.
General John Joseph Pershing
General John Joseph Pershing, as the senior American military commander during World War I, held a crucial position in leading the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF). Pershing’s leadership and strategic acumen were instrumental in guiding the AEF through the challenges of the conflict.
A Remarkable Leader
The naming of Pershing Place by Henry F Halloran stands as a lasting tribute to Pershing’s remarkable leadership and accomplishments, recognising his pivotal role in shaping the course of World War I and honouring his enduring legacy in military history.
General Pershing. National Photo Company Collection Library of Congress. Source: Wikimedia Commons Public Domain.
Commander of the AEF
Pershing was appointed as the commander of the AEF, the American military force sent to Europe during World War I. He was given the rank of General of the Armies, the highest possible rank in the United States Army, created specifically for him.
Lt. Gen. Pershing (Chief of American Expeditionary Force) landing off the boat in France. The British Western front in France. Source: Wikimedia Commons
American Entry into the War
When the United States entered World War I in 1917, Pershing faced the formidable task of organising, training, and deploying a large and effective American fighting force to support the Allied powers.
Trench Warfare and New Tactics
Pershing insisted on the importance of American soldiers fighting as distinct American units rather than being integrated into existing Allied forces. He was also determined to avoid the static trench warfare that characterised much of the Western Front. The AEF underwent intensive training to prepare for open warfare.
A German trench occupied by British soldiers of the Cheshire Regiment near the Albert-Bapaume road at Ovillers-la-Boisselle, July 1916 during the Battle of the Somme. Source: Wikimedia Commons Public Domain.
This battle scene was painted in 1919 by artist Frank Schoonover of the Battle of Belleau Wood Title “How Twenty Marines Took Bouresches”. Source: Wikimedia Commons Public Domain
Battles Involving the AEF
The AEF, under Pershing’s command, played a significant role in several crucial battles during the latter part of the war. Notable engagements included the Battle of Cantigny, the Battle of Belleau Wood, and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.
Meuse-Argonne Offensive, or Battle of the Argonne Forest, – 26 September to 11 November 1918. Campaign Atlas of the Great War. Source: Wikimedia Commons Public Domain.
Meuse-Argonne Offensive
The Meuse-Argonne Offensive in late 1918 was one of the largest operations involving the AEF. It was a key part of the broader Allied offensive that ultimately led to the end of World War I. The offensive was successful in breaking the German defensive line and contributed to the overall victory.
General Pershing returns victorious to USA 1919 Source: United States Library of Congress Source: Wikimedia Commons
After the War
After World War I, Pershing played a key role in post-war affairs, including the Rhineland occupation and Treaty of Versailles negotiations. He advocated for a strong American military presence in Europe. His leadership during the war earned widespread admiration, solidifying his place in American military history and shaping the U.S. Army’s development.
General Pershing addressing the American Expeditionary Force
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General John J Pershing’s Role in Forming the American Army
“The Great War’s video ‘Creating an American Army – John J. Pershing’ explores General John J. Pershing’s pivotal role in forming the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) during World War I. It covers Pershing’s organisation of troops, training methods, and strategic decision-making on the battlefield. The video provides valuable insights into Pershing’s contributions to the Allied powers and the challenges of leading the American military during the war.”
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