About Kemmel American Monument

Overview

The World War I Kemmel American Monument is 6 miles south of Ieper (Ypres), Belgium.

It commemorates the services and sacrifices of the American troops who, in the late summer of 1918, fought nearby in units attached to the British Army. Some are buried in Flanders Field American Cemetery at Waregem, Belgium, 30 miles to the east.

This small monument on a low platform consists of a rectangular white stone block, in front of which is carved a soldier’s helmet upon a wreath. The inscription on the Kemmel Monument reads:

Erected by the United States of America to commemorate
the services of American troops who fought in this vicinity
August 18–September 4 1918

The 27th and 30th Divisions are honored. They served with the British Army from arrival in Europe in May 1918. Their participation in the Ypres-Lys Offensive began when the 30th Division took position in the line on Aug. 18, and the 27th on Aug. 23. The Allied advance began on Aug. 31.

Both divisions met determined German resistance. They moved forward slowly. That afternoon the 27th Division reached the area where the Kemmel American Monument stands. They advanced against German forces on Sept. 1 and 2.

The 27th Division was relieved on Sept. 3, and the 30th the next day. Both divisions moved south to the region near St. Quentin. Soon they fought in the Somme Offensive, Sept. 23-30.