PVT. Donald B. Conrad's
Guide to America's World War One Monuments
The United States declared war against Germany and her allies in April 1917. However, the country was ill prepared to send troops to France. It would require at least ten months to train the proposed two million-man army.
The first serious encounter between the American Expeditionary Forces and Germany occurred in July 1918 near Chateau-Thierry, along the Marne River. The Americans fought continuously for the next four months until the conflict ended on November 11th, 1918, with the signing of the Armistice.
During period between July and November 1918, Americans casualties averaged 2000 per day. By wars end, 53,000 soldiers suffered battle deaths. In the following years, another 63,000 died from battle wounds and illness.
Up to July 1918, the Allies had fought in France, Italy and the Near East for four years, losing millions of soldiers, the cream of their youths. The arrival of the American Army quickly changed the situation and within four months, the war was over.
Our proud, but grieving nation found solace in the great number of monuments that quickly arose in a multitude of town and city squares throughout country. Bronze plaques were most often engraved with the words; "Dedicated to the Memory of those who gave their lives in the defense of humanity."
In order to meet the demand of communities, the finest sculptors were called upon to design suitable monuments honoring the men and women war heroes. Some of the most famous artists who offered their service were Ernst M. Viquesney, Joseph Pollia, Guiseppe Moretti, John Pauling, Charles Niehaus, Gaetano Federici and Allen Newman. Viquesney’s monuments alone number more than 170 and are found in nearly every state. Today, there are approximately 950 World War One statues and plaques that the tourist may easily find and visit. These are inspiring sites where individuals and families may appreciate the dedication of Americans who fought to "Make the World Safe for Democracy."
