Masnières Newfoundland Memorial, War memorial in Masnières, France
Masnières Newfoundland Memorial is a bronze caribou statue mounted on a granite base at the northern entrance to the town, positioned toward where German forces once held positions. The sculpture commemorates soldiers who fought and died in this area during World War One.
The memorial marks where Newfoundland Regiment soldiers fought during the Battle of Cambrai in November 1917 to defend the town against German attacks. This battle became a turning point on the Western Front, with the regiment playing a crucial role in the fighting.
The caribou design represents Newfoundland's national symbol and was created by British sculptor Basil Gotto. It is one of five identical monuments placed across European battlefields to honor the same regiment.
The memorial is located about 8 kilometers south of Cambrai and can be reached via the D644 road, with a parking area available for visitors. The site is easily accessible for anyone wanting to pay respects or learn about this chapter of the war.
King George V granted the Newfoundland Regiment the title "Royal" while they were actively fighting, making it the only British regiment to receive this honor during combat rather than after. This exceptional recognition acknowledged the soldiers' extraordinary courage under fire.
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