Home»The road to Croix de Wihr
This unusual monument with the képi is part of le Grand Hohnack near Trois-Épis. It marks the furthest advance of the French army during the fighting of 19th August 1914. The 152e Régiment d'Infanterie had been ordered to capture Trois-Épis and ascended the steep climb from the Munster valley. At just under 1000m they encountered German troops. In the chaotic face-to-face fighting with bayonets, they prevented the Germans from advancing and because of their fierce determination they were nicknamed les Diables Rouges [Red Devils]. The name helped to bond the unit and is said to have inspired fear in the enemy. The granite monument lists the names of 21 men who died. 27 more were wounded. During the Second World War, knowing that the occupying German forces intended to destroy the monument, local patriots carved it up and buried the pieces in situ with the intention of re-erecting it after the war. Apparently on close inspection you can see fissures in the stone testifying to the truth of the story.