Battle of Messines (1917)
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The Battle of Messines was an attack by the British Second Army, on the Western Front, near the village of Messines in West Flanders, Belgium, during the First World War. The Nivelle Offensive in Apri
Messines–Wytschaete area, 1917
Messines Ridge from Hill 63, George Edmund Butler
A howitzer firing during the battle
A view of Mesen from south-west of Wytschaete (Wijtschate) in 2007.
Several underground explosive charges were fired during the First World War at the start of the Battle of Messines. The battle was fought by the British Second Army and the German 4th Army near Mesen
Battle of Messines (1917)
…June, was rushed back when the attack began and the 11th Division, in Gruppe Ypern reserve, arrived on 8 June. The battle began with the detonation of nineteen mines beneath the German front position, which devastated it and left large craters. A 700 yd (640 m) deep creeping barrage began and protected the British…
Example of a mine gallery with timber roof support
Spanbroekmolen crater ("Lone Tree Crater" or "Pool of Peace") on one of the highest points of the Messines Ridge, in November 2009.
Plan for the British deep mines at Hollandscheschur Farm with German counter-mining efforts clearly visible
SMLE with shortened stock and barrel for fighting underground