Belleau Wood – 1918 U.S. Marines Operations Battle Map

Belleau Wood – 1918 U.S. Marines Operations Battle Map

The Battle of Belleau Wood was fought from June 1–26, 1918, during the German Spring Offensive of World War I. Two U.S. Army divisions, including the 2nd U.S. Division with its attached 4th Marine Brigade, were engaged in one of the fiercest battles fought by American forces during the war. The brutal fighting in and around Belleau Wood became foundational to Marine Corps history and identity.

Historical Context In June 1918, German forces pushed toward Paris in a final offensive effort. U.S. Marines and soldiers were ordered to halt the advance near the Marne River. Over weeks of relentless combat, the 4th Marine Brigade conducted repeated assaults through dense woods, repelled counterattacks, and secured key positions including the village of Bouresches. The Marines’ stand at Belleau Wood earned them international recognition and the enduring nickname “Devil Dogs.”

The Map’s Features This detailed operational map portrays the disposition of the 4th Brigade (Marine), 2nd U.S. Division during the battle. It illustrates front lines and unit movements added in 1940 to a 1912 base map, highlighting flank attacks north of Champillon village on the left and the seizure of Bouresches on the right. Terrain features, road networks, and river contours are clearly shown, providing a precise geographic view of the battlefield.

Historical Significance Belleau Wood marked the emergence of American combat power on the Western Front. The courage and determination displayed there became central to Marine Corps tradition. This map preserves the tactical landscape of one of the defining engagements of World War I.

Museum-Quality Reproduction This is a high-quality reproduction of the original historical battle map, professionally printed on archival Hahnemühle paper using the Giclée printing process to preserve fine cartographic detail, line clarity, and long-term display durability.

Perfect For:

• U.S. Marine Corps veterans and families

• World War I historians and collectors

• Military academies and ROTC programs

• Offices, studies, and veteran memorial spaces

• Gifts honoring Marine Corps heritage

Specifications:

• Original Publication: 1912 base map; 1940 front line annotations

• Scale: 1:20,000

• Style: Operational front line battle map

• Battle/Conflict: Battle of Belleau Wood (World War I)

• Battle Result: American Victory

• Product Type: High-Quality Reproduction Print

Dimensions (Width x Height): 24 x 34.5

Each map is printed using the finest materials and methods. Your map will be handled with white gloves from start to finish. We use the Giclée printing method on Hahnemühle paper, which produces a clear, extremely detailed, durable map perfect for proud display in your home or office.