X-Nico

2 unusual facts about Operation Michael


Battle of St. Quentin

Operation Michael (March 1918), German operation which the British called the "battle of Saint Quentin"

Irish Home Rule movement

With the collapse of the allied front during the German Spring Offensive and Operation Michael, Britain had a serious manpower shortage and the Cabinet agreed on 5 April to enact Home Rule immediately linked in a "dual policy" of extending conscription to Ireland.


George Grogan

In the retreat during Operation Michael in March 1918 his efforts resulted in a bar to his DSO, and during the Third Battle of the Aisne he won his VC for inspiring the defence of a hill above the River Vesle at Jonchery during 27–29 May 1918.

John Humphrey Davidson

Ahead of the German Michael Offensive Davidson advised Gough (GOC Fifth Army) that he could overcome his lack of men by “skilful handling of rearguards”.

Leicestershire Royal Horse Artillery

In 1918, the division faced the German offensive in the First Battles of the Somme: Battle of St. Quentin (21 – 23 March), First Battle of Bapaume (24 and 25 March), and the Battle of the Ancre (5 April).


see also