At 9 p.m. on June 1, the Germans, under cover of night, and protected by a dense smoke screen, counter-attacked, creeping along the river-side towards the great bridge, the defence of which had been entrusted to the Americans, with orders to hold it until the Colonials, who were fighting on the far side of the river, should fall back. This they did until the last of the French troops had passed over, when they withdrew. When the Germans debouched in front of the bridge, the latter blew up, and the few who had succeeded in crossing before the explosion were taken prisoners by the Americans, who had calmly posted their guns on the south bank of the river.
AMERICAN MACHINE-GUNS DO DEADLY EXECUTION IN THE GARDENS OF CHÂTEAU-THIERRY.
Throughout June and the first half of July, stiff fighting took place around the town, especially in Courteau Wood at the top of Hill 204. After being retaken by the Allies on June 6, this hill was constantly disputed, and repeatedly changed hands. The Germans, who were preparing their offensive of July 15, between Château-Thierry and Rheims, attached great importance to this position, which covered their right flank and dominated Château-Thierry. From July onwards the Allies, by a series of local operations, approached the town. On the night of July 1-2, the Americans captured the village of Vaux (which the tourist passed through before entering Château-Thierry), taking 400 prisoners belonging to the 201st German division. Enemy counter-attacks failed to win back the village.
The Americans also advanced to the east of Hill 204, and finally recaptured it on July 9 during a night attack.
The Allies’ successful counter-offensive of July 18 completely cleared Château-Thierry. On July 21, with their front pierced on the north and east, the enemy was forced to abandon the town, which was then entered by General Degoutte’s Army.