Oudenaarde American Monument

The World War I Audenarde American Monument  (Source: ABMC)

Located in the town of Oudenaarde (Audenarde), Belgium. The monument of golden-yellow limestone, bearing the shield of the United States flanked by two stone eagles, stands at the end of a small park maintained by ABMC. It commemorates the service and sacrifice of the 40,000 American troops who, in October and November 1918, fought in the vicinity as units attached to the Group of Armies commanded by the King of Belgium. The inscription on the Audenarde Monument reads:

"Erected by the United States of America to commemorate the services of American troops who fought in this vicinity Oct. 30–Nov. 11, 1918"

 

The 37th and 91st Divisions are the units honored. In mid-October 1918, they joined the Group of Armies of Flanders, commanded by Albert I, King of the Belgians. Both divisions participated in the offensive from near Waregem toward the Scheldt River, beginning October 31.

 

The 37th Division reached the Scheldt River on November 1 and crossed on November 2. The 91st Division entered Audenarde on November 2 and 3. Both divisions were relieved by November 5.  They resumed action in the front line on November 10, and were east of Audenarde when the Armistice became effective on November 11. American casualties from fighting in this region are interred at the Flanders Field American Cemetery in Waregem, located 10 miles to the west.

 

Audenarde-Kemmel
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