Lexington Community Education presents: The Devil Dogs

In 2016, sisters Carolyn Cole Kingston and Diana Cole had the honor to be part of a French documentary. Their grandfather, Major Edward B. Cole U.S.M.C., commander of the 6th machine gun battalion, was mortally wounded in the battle of Belleau Wood. His heroic actions won him many medals and commendations, and he was the first individual from World War I to have a Navy war ship named after him. This battle remains a founding element in the history of the Marine Corps, nicknamed Teufelhund or “Devil Dogs”, for their courage and persistence.

Major Cole’s story is one of three stories in this film that follows an American family’s pilgrimage. In the documentary, Carolyn and Diana retrace their grandfather’s steps leading up to the battle of Belleau Wood.

Gilles Lagin, historian and tour guide, has spent his life since childhood roaming the land in and around Belleau Wood. Gilles was made an honorary Marine in 2008 in recognition of the lifetime of memories and research he shares with American families whose search for roots lead them to the battlefields of France.

Produced for the Centennial, the film is a moving tribute to Major Cole and to all those who served in the “war to end all wars.” French, with English subtitles.

Sisters Carolyn Kingston and Diana Cole grew up in Lexington, and their father, Charles H. Cole II, the elder son of Major Cole, had his architectural office in Lexington Center. They will be available to introduce the film, and answer questions about their unique experience.

This event will be held on Wednesday, October 24 at 7:00pm at the Lexington Depot. The cost of the event is $10.00.

Pre-registration, using VISA or MasterCard, is strongly recommended by contacting Lexington Community Education at 781 862 8043.