Part 2/15:
The Allied attack involved Belgian King Albert’s Army Group North, which included French General Jean Degoutte’s staff, alongside British 2nd Army under Herbert Plumer. The plan was to push eastward from Ypres, cross the salient, and seize the ridge. While Plumer suggested bypassing the salient for Messines, British Commander Sir Douglas Haig preferred engaging the Belgian forces directly to involve them actively in the push. Despite rain, mud, and the absence of tanks—a stark contrast to previous years—the Allies made notable initial gains, advancing up to 13 km in some sectors and taking key positions such as Passchendaele itself, along with Messines and Gheluvelt by September 29th.