The Final 100 Days - August 9, 1918

After the initial, stunning successes at Amiens on August 8th, the Allied forces moved to continue their push and hopefully pierce the German lines. However, they faced a far more difficult task. Following the substantial gains made by the Canadian Corps (up to 13 kilometers in some sectors) the German Army had reinforced their front line with 5 divisions, digging in opposite to the Canadians. It became clear the Canadians would be fighting a much more prepared enemy within the days to come.

August 9th was characterized by miscommunication, confusion, and unpreparedness on the Allied side. The distance that the Canadian Corps had travelled made it difficult to bring up ammunition, tanks, fresh water, and more men to replenish those who had fallen. Moreover, the Allies no longer had the element of surprise, and the Germans fought tenaciously for every piece of ground. Astonishingly, the Canadians still went on to advance another 6 kilometers.