World War I was fought between 1914-1918. Since much attention has been paid lately to its 100th Anniversary, I thought I would share a different type of war story.

 The Battle of Belleau Wood, situated on the out skirts of Lucy-LeBocage, France was fought between June 1 and June 26, 1918, and was part of the German Aisne offensive. The main German attack was repulsed on June 4 and US forces began offensive operations on June 6.

 The ruined church of Lucy LeBocage is an object which dwelt vividly in the minds of thousands of American soldiers of the 2nd and 26th Divisions who were accustomed to pass by it on their way to or from the front lines in Belleau Wood. Lucy was the nearest village behind the American battle front.

 In the little parish church of Lucy hung unscathed through all the bombardments the touching symbol of the crucified Christ which we see here. Many a doughboy, weary & fatigued from war, must have received peace and courage from this amazing site. One cannot help but quote the 23rd Psalm when seeing this incredible photograph.

Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures,
 He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul, he leadeth me in the the paths
 of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
 I will fear no evil, for thou art with me;
 thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies,
 thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
 and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.