Messines Ridge: ‘Then and Now’ The Battle of Messines, fought on 7 June 1917 near Ypres, Belgium, was a major Allied offensive planned by General Herbert Plumer. British, Australian, and New Zealand forces aimed to seize the Messines Ridge — a vital German defensive stronghold. At dawn, 19 vast mines detonated beneath the German lines, shattering the ridge and heralding the assault. Supported by intense artillery fire and precise coordination, the New Zealand Division led the attack, capturing t

The German Oosttaverne line was a crucial objective during the Battle of Messines. It was captured on 7 June 1917, but at a cost. #Messines100 #WeAreCWGC | Commonwealth War Graves Commission