Battles & Campaigns · 1918
Battle of Épehy
Épehy, Somme, France
What happened
British and Australian troops attacked German outposts on high ground in front of the Hindenburg Line. There was no long bombardment beforehand; the attack relied on a moving barrage. The village of Épehy was captured, and the two Australian divisions took all their objectives.
Why it matters
The Allies took about 11,750 prisoners. It showed clearly that the German army was weakening.
What came next
The Allies pressed on to the Battle of St Quentin Canal before the Germans could strengthen their positions.
Did you know?
Épehy has a war memorial to the battle.
Timeline
- 8 Aug 1918Battle of Amiens begins the Hundred Days.
- 18 Sep 1918Battle of Épehy.
- 27 Sep 1918Battle of the Canal du Nord.
- 29 Sep 1918Battle of St Quentin Canal begins.