Remembering a Veteran: Augustin Leuregans, 236th R.I., French Army

Detail from His
Memorial

On 30 May 1915, 18-year-old Aspirant (cadet officer) Augustin Leuregans, 236th R.I., was ordered to lead an attack against an intensely fortified German complex north of Arras known as the "Labyrinth." 

His company was composed of reactivated reservists, all over 40 years of age. The unit was pinned down in an underground bunker and was reluctant to attack. He told his men, "Come, my old dads, you're not going to let your child die alone." 

He was killed almost immediately as the men followed him out. The Labyrinth and nearby Neuville-St. Vaast  did not fall to the French until 17 June 1915.  A moving ceremony was conducted at his memorial on the 100th anniversary of his death.

Your Editor Shares the Story with His 2015 Tour Group at the Site of the Labyrinth,
Neuville-st. Vaast in Distance