The Last Days of Fort Vaux, March 9-June 7, 1916

"The Last Days of Fort Vaux, March 9-June 7, 1916" by Henry Bordeaux recounts the heroic story of Fort Vaux's defense during World War I. This early 20th-century work shows the bravery of French soldiers battling at the Battle of Verdun. Captain Bordeaux shares his firsthand knowledge, explaining both the military plans and the intense personal struggles of war. The story begins by presenting Fort Vaux as a key defense point at Verdun, detailing its importance, structure, and the events leading to the German attacks. Bordeaux paints a picture of the fort amidst the turmoil, describing the worried civilians leaving and the harsh conditions the soldiers faced. The narrative prepares readers for the battles ahead, stressing the effort to defend the fort against impossible odds, creating a sense of honor mixed with the sadness of defending such a pivotal place.