Somme American Cemetery and Memorial, Bony, France

The 14.3-acre (58,000 m2) Somme American Cemetery and Memorial is a war cemetery established in October 1918 on ground which saw heavy fighting just before and during the Battle of St Quentin Canal. It contains the graves of 1,844 of the United States' military dead from World War I. Most lost their lives in the assault on the Hindenburg Line while serving in American II Corps attached to the British Fourth Army. Others were killed in operations near Cantigny. The headstones, set in regular rows, are separated into four plots by paths that intersect at the flagpole near the top of the slope. The longer axis leads to the chapel at the eastern end of the cemetery.

A massive bronze door surmounted by an American eagle leads into the chapel, whose outer walls contain sculptured pieces of military equipment. Once inside, light from a cross-shaped crystal window above the marble altar bathes the subdued interior with light. The walls bear the names of 333 of the missing. Rosettes mark the names of those since recovered and identified.

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User Reviews

Russell Sypott (2 months ago)
Whilst searching for the place (Bony) my paternal grandfather won the British MM in WW1 we found this well maintained and managed American War cemetery. We are Australians who on telling the staff why we were in the area were looked after incredibly well. Lest We Forget all those who sacrificed their lives so that we can enjoy ours.

Remco (7 months ago)
Beautiful small American cemetery of the first world war. The caretaker was very friendly (this is unfortunately not always the case with American cemeteries) and gave me a tour of the cemetery. Highly recommended if you are in the area.

Bence Batyi (2 years ago)
Exceptionally well-kept and a solemn reminder of how freedom isn’t free. We were driving to Paris and saw this as we passed by. Absolutely proud to be an American and see the graves of our fallen being so well taken care of. Everyone should stop by and pay their respects if they can.

John Ward (2 years ago)
Came to visit the grave of my relative, Ralph R. Johncox. I was greeted by the groundskeeper who was very informative and passionate. They went above and beyond to ensure that my visit was meaningful and impactful. The cemetery is very well kept and easy to access.

SHUANG QIU (3 years ago)
Too bad the nicest and most professional guard, Guillaume, is not there anymore

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Somme American Cemetery and Memorial

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