Attacking from the north and north east were the German XXVI Reserve Corps with their axis on Langemarck, assaulting the advancing I Corps who were hastily digging in.
The German engaged in repeated attacks along the line, the 7th Division coming under heavy artillery bombardment. Despite the ferocious attacks, the more experienced British troops were able to halt the assault. Only in the area of Kortekeer did the Germans break through, but they were dislodged in a counter attack on the morning of the 22nd October. The same day the French 17th Division launched a counter attack from the 2nd Divisions position, but this failed.
The area around Langemark had seen some heavy fighting. The inexperienced German troops, many of who were student volunteers, had advanced in waves, reportedly signing 'Deutschland, Deutschland über alles, suffered heavy casualties. This became a German legend 'Der Kindermord bei Ypern--massacre of the innocents.
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| 'Der Kindermord bei Ypern |
I Corps in the hastily prepared defences held on, and were relieved by the French XXX Division on the 23rd October.
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| Lang marck Looking North from 1st Division area |
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| Langemarck looking East from 1st Division area |