German reinforcements, recently arrived after their relocation from the eastern front, continued their offensive at Chateau-Thierry, and advanced within 50 miles of Paris before pausing in Belleau Woods.
It was there the Americans decided to attack. As they dug in to prepare for the days ahead, their French counterparts retreated, and advised the US Marines do the same.
On June 6, 2018, the US forces launched a three-week battle in which both sides would suffer debilitating losses.
On the first day of fighting, US forces suffered over 1,000 casualties. The Germans defended against nine assaults, until June 26, when a combat report relayed the victory.
Accounts vary as to the precise wording used by Marine Maj. Maurice Shearer, but the gist was this: "Woods now U.S. Marine Corps entirely."