Aisne-Marne American Cemetery — Attraction in Château-Thierry

Our visit to the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial in France was a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.

From the moment we entered the cemetery, we were struck by its serene beauty and meticulous upkeep. The headstones, arranged in a sweeping curve, create a powerful visual tribute to those who rest here.

The memorial chapel, perched on a hillside overlooking the cemetery, is a masterpiece of architectural and artistic design. Its sculptured and stained-glass details depicting wartime personnel, equipment, and insignia are incredibly evocative.

One of the most impactful moments of our visit was seeing the shell hole in the chapel wall, a stark reminder of the heavy fighting that took place here during World War II. This preserved scar of history underscores the resilience and enduring spirit of those who served and sacrificed.

Adjacent to the cemetery is Belleau Wood, a historic battlefield that still bears the vestiges of World War I. Walking through this hallowed ground, we felt a profound connection to the past. The monument at the flagpole, commemorating the valor of the U.S. Marines who captured much of this ground in 1918, is a powerful tribute to their courage and tenacity.

Throughout our visit, we were continually impressed by the thoughtful design and care taken to maintain the cemetery and memorial.

We highly recommend a visit to the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial. It offers a profound and deeply personal connection to history, providing an opportunity to honor and reflect on the immense sacrifices...

My great grandfather received a Purple Heart at Belleau Woods. He was in the 67th Company 5th Marine regiment and was trapped behind the German lines for 6 days after his platoon pushed too far past hill 142 towards Torcy and were surrounded. His tibia and fibula were fractured by German Maxim machine gun fire but he and 3 Marines continued fighting together. My grandfather said his dad slept with a Colt 1911 .45 under his pillow for the rest of his life.

He lived to be 91 years old and lived a prosperous life in New Orleans,...

Staff are professional and sat me down for personal one on one and moving overview of site and history. As a Marine this was one of the pilgrimages I had to make and it is beyond description what I felt here and how the site is revered even by the locals. Was treated the day I went to a local festival in the village of Belleau as well due to a national holiday. I secured my additional 10-20 years of life (depending upon the folk lore you believe in) by drinking from the sacred Devil Dog fountain. 5 stars...