A Moonlight Massacre: the night operation on the Passchendaele Ridge

Published on 27 July 2020
Submitted by Dr Michael LoCicero

This talk, which was delivered 'live' to an online audience by Dr Michael LoCicero is about the only night operation that took place during the Third Battle of Ypres.

Whilst 3rd Ypres was 'officially' terminated by Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig with the opening of the Battle of Cambrai on 20 November 1917, the fighting did not stop. A comparatively unknown set-piece attack (the only large-scale night operation carried out on the Flanders front during the campaign) was launched twelve days later on 2 December.

A Moonlight Massacre: the night operation on the Passchendaele Ridge
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Local Branch Icon
Your local WFA branch

With around 50 branches, there may be one near you. The branch meetings are open to all.

Trenchmaper Icon
TrenchMapper

Utilise this tool to overlay historical trench maps with modern maps, enhancing battlefield research and exploration.

Standto Icon
Stand To!

Receive four issues annually of this prestigious journal, featuring deeply researched articles, book reviews and historical analysis.

Other Articles

James Marshall VC
22 December 2025

The Making of a Hero: James Neville Marshall VC

Read more
Sambre Canal. Surrey Live
21 December 2025

Not 'Coming up with the rations': The award of the final wartime second bar to the MM

Read more
01. Marko, P.61
17 December 2025

Le Roi des Montagnes, the French, and Floatplanes

Read more
The Oak & Laurel (1)
17 December 2025

The Oak and Laurel

Read more
1.25Th Cyclists
5 December 2025

From Putney Bridge to Jallianwala Bagh: The 1/25th County of London Cyclists 1914-1919

Read more