THE BATTLE OF MESSINES
Date: The battle was launched on the 7th of June, 1917
"The Messine offensive was designed to force the German enemy to withdraw from the main battlefront of Vimy – Arras.” The Battle exemplified tactical success through careful planning and overwhelming firepower. The Germans used this ridge as a salient into the British lines, building their defense along its 10 mile length. Winning this ground was essential for the Allies to launch a larger campaign planned for east of Ypres. Australia's Involvement: The battle of Messines was the very first ''large-scale'' action / battle involving Australia. Messines also marked the entry of the 3rd Division into a major battle. Significance:
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