The Lost Battalion

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The Lost Battalion

Based on a true story, The Lost Battalion is set in 1918, during the final months of WWI. Assigned to capture an enemy stronghold in Charlvaux, France, at the height of the Argonne campaign, the men of the AEF 308th Battalion, 77th Division, are led by young American major Charles Whittlesey, an inexperienced but dedicated "citizen soldier." Totally cut off from the other allied troops, unaware of their vulnerability, and barraged by "friendly fire," the 500-plus men of the 308th bravely hold their position, suffering incredible losses and unspeakable deprivations in the process -- while the battalion's superior officers, far from the firing line, callously prepare to write off the men as expendable casualties. 1. Describe the scene at the beginning of the movie.

2. Major Whittlesey is told to lead his battalion into the Argonne Forest. Why does he think this is a bad idea?

3. Describe the men in the 308th battalion.

4. What is combat like?

5. Describe the situation once the 308th enters the Argonne Forest.

6. How does Major Whittlesey and the men of the 308th communicate with commanders at headquarters?

7. Why does Major Whittlesey tell Lt. Leek to start burning coffee grounds? What is the outcome of this? 8. What do the Germans think of the American soldiers? 9. Many people doubt Major Whittlesey's abilities because he is a New York City lawyer and not a career soldier.

What do you think of him as a leader and a man? Cite specific examples to support your point of view.

10. Where do the soldiers get food and supplies after theirs run out? 11. Describe the "friendly fire" incident.

12. Explain what happens when Lt. Leek is captured by the Germans. 13. How does Major Whittlesey react to the German's message to surrender? 14. Why was it important for Major Whittlesey to hold their position in the Argonne Forest? 15. What role did the 308th Battalion ultimately play in WWI?

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