The Final 100 Days: September 5, 1918

65 Days Until Armistice

Immediately following the conclusion of the Arras campaign, the battered Canadian Divisions were ready to be cycled out of the lines for a period of rest and refit. The evening of September 4th and the morning of the 5th saw the 1st Canadian Division relieved by the 2nd Canadians Division. 

Following the Canadian Corps’ consolidation of their positions on the Canal du Nord, large scale fighting ceased for around 3 weeks. However, small skirmishes with the enemy were ever-present, as the Corps continued to consolidate and fortify their positions.

Through the day, troops would keep their heads down, avoiding German observation planes by placing a groundsheet over their trenches, and enduring the incessant shelling. Although it is rarely mentioned, the use of gas was prevalent on both the Allies and the Axis’ parts. The psychological effects of the shelling could be just as effective as the physical effects. 

As the Canadians held the line in the north, British forces advanced north of Perrone, while General Humbert’s Third French Army crossed the Somme canal and continued their advance on St. Quentin.