7th Army (France)

The French 7th Army (French: VIIe Armée) was a field army of the French Army during World War I and World War II.

World War I:

The 7th Army was formed during World War I in December 1917. It was primarily responsible for holding sectors of the Western Front, particularly in Alsace. Its role was largely defensive. It saw action during the German Spring Offensive of 1918, defending key areas against the German advance. Following the Allied counteroffensives, the 7th Army participated in the liberation of French territory.

World War II:

The 7th Army was reactivated at the outbreak of World War II. Commanded by General Giraud, it was initially deployed to the north, tasked with advancing into the Netherlands as part of the Allied Dyle Plan. However, the rapid German breakthrough through the Ardennes Forest rendered this plan obsolete. The 7th Army was subsequently involved in fierce fighting as it attempted to reinforce the Allied left flank. It participated in the defense of Dunkirk and suffered heavy losses during the Battle of France in 1940, ultimately being forced to retreat and eventually disintegrate amidst the overall French collapse. Following the armistice with Germany, the 7th Army was officially disbanded.