Head and neck surgeon Dr. William B. Clark cares for patients through ENT Associates of Northwest Florida. A former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Dr. William B. Clark enjoys spending his free time reading about military history. In celebration of the November 2018 centennial of the end of World War I, the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission republished an article looking back at the actions of the U.S. Marine Corps in Europe during the historic conflict. Among the key events discussed was the battle of Belleau Wood. Occurring over three weeks in the spring of 1918, the battle of Belleau Wood saw the Marines called into action to blunt a German offensive that, if successful, would have likely resulted in the fall of Paris. At the time, the Marines was a small force that had yet to establish the reputation it has today. In fact, before they war, the Marines had largely been relegated to security duties and were often derided for their ornate uniforms. Eager to prove themselves as a capable ground force, the Marines displayed expert marksmanship and sustained tenacity during the battle, repeatedly attacking the German lines. Their efforts came at a heavy cost, as nearly 10,000 Americans were killed or wounded. However, the Marines also succeeded in turning back the Germans. Recognizing their valor, the French Army acknowledged the Marines valiant effort by renaming Belleau Wood in their honor. Today, the battle is described as what one historian calls “a defining moment” for the Marines, one that proved their mettle as a fighting force.
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AuthorDr. William B. Clark Archives
January 2017
CategoriesAll American Cancer Society Books Cadence Cycling Dr. William B. Clark Medical Sports |