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HEUVELLAND, Belgium—In a joint venture with the WandelSport Vlaanderen, the American Legion “Flanders Field” Post BE02 is hosting a historical volksmarch from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 28, 2021, to commemorate the Battle of Vierstraat Ridge.
There are three different walking trails, 18K, 11K and 7K, complete with historical facts and re-enactors. Along the 18K route, participants can visit the Bayernwald Trenches, the Pool of Peace and the Cold War Command Bunker.
“U.S. involvement in the liberation of Belgium during World War I is not well-known,” said Joseph Schram, Flanders Field Post BE02 commander. “This walk provides an opportunity to walk the battlefield and learn how Americans supported the overall war efforts.”
Those interested in participating are encouraged to sign up in advance by emailing flanders.fields.post.be02@gmail.com, or on the day of the event visit the registration booth outside the Heuvelland Tourist Center. While participation in the walk is free of charge, donations are being accepted.
Limited refreshments will be available for purchase along the route.
An American-style barbeque will also take place at the Kemmel Market Square from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Mitchell A. Yockelson, author of “Borrowed Soldiers,” will also be available to sign copies of his book.
Battle Background
During July and August 1918, units from the U.S. 27th and 30th Divisions rotated in and out of defensive positions occupied by British forces. The purpose was to learn tactics and provide a baptism of fire to the men. On August 31, two regiments of the 27th Division occupied the front lines on Vierstraat Ridge while two regiments of the 30th Division occupied the left flank of the line up to Zillebeke Lake (near Ypres). Fighting continued for three days with the 27th moving forward to the ridge near the village of Wijtschate. Keeping in line with the 27th Division, the 30th Division captured the village of Voormezele. On September 3, 1918, both Divisions were relieved by British forces and transported to Northern France to fight on the Hindenburg Line.
