Jaidyn Ayers

History

19 June, 02:38

What was the purpose of General Gouraud's memo?

to explain the upcoming Allied strategy

to encourage his forces on the eve of battle

to direct his troops to surrender

to defend his actions to his superiors

General Henri Gouraud was a commander of the French

army in World War I. He sent this memo on the eve of the

Second Battle of the Mame in 1918.

To the French and American Soldiers of the Army: ...

The bombardment will be terrible. You will endure it

without weakness. The attack in a cloud of dust and gas

will be fierce, but your positions and your armament are

formidable.

The strong and brave hearts of free men beat in your

breasts. None will look behind, none will give way ...

And therefore your General tells you it will be a glorious

day.

-Gen. Henri Gouraud,

July 16, 1918