Belleau Wood

The basics

Once the site of a 3-week battle that caused substantial casualties, Belleau Wood is now home to the Belleau Wood US Marines Monument. Erected in commemoration of the valor and bravery of the 4th Marine Brigade who captured this area in 1918—as well as the actions of the U.S. Army’s 2nd Division, who not only survived but overpowered the German attacks—the monument is surrounded with scattered shell holes, war relics, and trenches.

Belleau Wood is also adjacent the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial, dedicated to the sacrifices of soldiers who died in the battle and the cooperation of French and American forces. Day trips and tours of important World War I sites in the Marne Valley from Paris generally stop at these two sites, along with the Chateau-Thierry American Monument and Museum of the Great War in Meaux.

Things to know before you go

• With the vast number of casualties at the Battle of Belleau Wood, the cemeteries and memorials surrounding the battlefield are frequently visited by families of the fallen; be particularly respectful of fellow visitors when touring.
• The monument is set along the road through the woods and can be reached by wheelchair; the surrounding woodland may be difficult to navigate on wheels.
• Choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather to visit this outdoor memorial site.

How to get there

Belleau Wood is located on a hillside above Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial in the region of Picardie, 60 miles (87 kilometers) outside of Paris. The memorial can be reached in just over an hour via highways A4 and D1003. 

When to get there

The memorial is open daily from sunrise to sunset and is best on a clear day as it is set outdoors. Special services and events are held at the memorial and nearby cemetery each year on Memorial Day. 

The Battle of Belleau Wood

The Battle of Belleau Wood was significant for the American Army, which often refers to this battle as a key component of the United States Marine Corps’ lore and dedication; the soldiers, led by General John J. "Black Jack" Pershing, held off a critical sector of the final German offensive, teaming up with the French and British forces to stop the advances that would eventually lead to the German Empire’s recognition of the Armistice of November 11. This was one of the first actions of the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe.