THE FIRST GERMAN ATTACKS AGAINST THE MEUSE HEIGHTS
While the Battle of the Marne was raging, the Germans attempted in vain to capture the Meuse Heights, in order to take Gen. Sarrail’s Army—the pivot of Joffre’s manoeuvre—in the rear.
On the 10th, the forts were still holding out, although deluged with shells. Meanwhile the German infantry advanced towards St. Mihiel.
However, the Battle of the Marne had now been won on the left wing, and the German retreat, which was to extend as far as the Verdun—St. Mihiel district, had begun.
General de Castelnau despatched the 73rd Reserve and 2nd Cavalry Divisions of his army to Troyon, and the fort was relieved on September 13. The mobile defence forces of Verdun pursued the retreating Germans across the Meuse and established themselves to the east of the town, while General Sarrail’s army advanced towards the north and west.
The German plan had completely failed.
