Operation ‘Blucher’ * The Blucher-Yorck offensive lasted from May 27- June 3, 1918 * The offensive was named after two Russian generals of the Napoleonic wars * It was the third battle of the Aisne (Making it third German offensive in a row) * The goal of the Germans was to bog down the allies in central France, in the hope of preventing reinforcements from reaching British positions in the north. * Began on 27 May between Soissons and Rheims, which was partly held by six British divisions * 41 divisions of the German 1st and 7th armies successfully attacked the inadequate defences of French 6th army along 25 mile front east of Aisne river * After an artillery barrage, German troops roll over decimated 6th army * This success leads Ludendorff to now head for Paris, in an effort to draw the Allies into a final climactic battle that will decide the war. * Within two days the Germans cross the river Aisne, and advance westward, coming within 50 miles of Paris * Ludendorff’s problem is that his troops had been pushed to the breaking point and have succumb to exhaustion, unable to keep the rapid advance * As the German advance wilters allied reinforcements, including the newly arrived Americans, pour into the region. * American forces played a role in stopping the Germans through intense fighting at Chateau-Thierry and Belleau Wood. * The aftermath involved General Duchene the leader of the French army, was replaced after disobeying orders from the British, which were putting the masses of troops in the front trenches thus leading no place for any reserves.