Operation Georgette — Germany Attacks Towards Channel Ports

Germany's second Spring Offensive (Operation Georgette) struck at the Lys River in Flanders, threatening Ypres and the vital Channel ports. Initial gains included the recapture of Passchendaele and Armentières. Field Marshal Haig issued his famous 'backs to the wall' order: 'There is no other course open to us but to fight it out. Every position must be held to the last man.' Allied resistance stiffened and the offensive ground to a halt by April 29.