Battle of the Lys (1918)

Battle of the Lys
Part of the Western Front of the First World War

German Lys offensive, 1918
Date7–29 April 1918 (1918-04-07 – 1918-04-29)
Location
Flanders, Belgium to northeast France
50°42′20″N 2°54′00″E / 50.70556°N 2.90000°E / 50.70556; 2.90000
Result See Analysis section
Territorial
changes
Germans penetrate British lines up to 9.3 mi (15 km)
Belligerents
[1]  Germany
Commanders and leaders
Strength
Unknown 35 divisions (~612,500)
Casualties and losses
  • 118,300–119,040
  •  
  • 118 guns
  • 60 aircraft
  • 86,000–109,300
  •  
  • 8 aircraft including the Red Baron

The Battle of the Lys, also known as the Fourth Battle of Ypres, was fought from 7 to 29 April 1918 and was part of the German spring offensive in Flanders during the First World War. It was originally planned by General Erich Ludendorff as Operation George but was reduced to Operation Georgette, with the objective of capturing Ypres, forcing the British forces back to the Channel ports and out of the war. In planning, execution and effects, Georgette was similar to (although smaller than) Operation Michael, earlier in the Spring Offensive.

  1. ^ Thompson, George. "American Military Operations and Casualties in 1917–18". University of Kansas Medical Center.