News

Routes of Interest to Lesser-Known World War I Sites in Belgium, France and the United Kingdom Now Available on ABMC.gov

Driving through northern France today, it’s hard to imagine the brutal fighting that occurred 100 years ago. The pock-marked ground, barren landscape and trenches of World War I are now softened and hidden by time. Today, farms and rolling green countryside fill the horizon, and tucked within this peaceful landscape are World War I battle sites and markers relevant to the American experience that are sometimes overlooked by visitors. To give visitors a better understanding of where these sites are located, the American Battle Monuments Commission has released 21 specialized routes of interest on ABMC.gov for download.

From fields where fighting occurred to damaged churches to French cemeteries, these routes will give visitors a richer understanding of World War I. To explore sites in the countryside, driving directions are provided and for sites in Paris or London walking/public transportation directions are provided.

Download these free routes of interest:

In addition to these routes of interest, ABMC also includes a free copy of American Armies and Battlefields in Europe on its website. This nearly 600 page book was first published in 1927 to commemorate America’s involvement in World War I and it served as a guide for Americans traveling overseas to visit World War I battle sites, cemeteries and memorials.

By 1938, the book was expanded with additional research to serve as a history of the American Expeditionary Forces’ accomplishments. For those traveling overseas to explore World War I sites, this book is a perfect companion piece.

About ABMC:

Established by Congress in 1923, the American Battle Monuments Commission commemorates the service, achievements, and sacrifice of U.S. armed forces. ABMC administers 26 overseas military cemeteries, and 29 memorials, monuments, and markers.