What Was The Specific Role Of The 36th Infantry Division's Osage And Otoe Scouts In The Meuse-Argonne Campaign, Particularly In Terms Of Their Use Of Native American Sign Language To Transmit Crucial Intelligence Regarding German Troop Movements To Allied Commanders, And How Did This Contribute To The Division's Successful Breaching Of The Kriemhilde Stellung Defensive Line In October 1918?

The Osage and Otoe scouts of the 36th Infantry Division played a pivotal role in the Meuse-Argonne campaign of World War I, particularly through their use of Native American sign language to gather and transmit critical intelligence. As part of a National Guard unit with roots in Oklahoma, these scouts were deployed for reconnaissance, leveraging their expertise in a sophisticated sign language system unfamiliar to the enemy. This allowed them to communicate securely about German troop movements and defensive positions.

Their intelligence contributions were crucial in breaching the Kriemhilde Stellung line, part of the formidable Hindenburg Line. By providing detailed information on German concentrations and vulnerabilities, the scouts enabled Allied commanders to strategize effective attacks, such as targeting weaker points or outflanking enemy positions. Their role exemplified the strategic value of secure communication methods, setting a precedent for future military applications, including the renowned Navajo code talkers of World War II.

In essence, the scouts' use of sign language was integral to the 36th Division's success, highlighting the importance of their contributions in the broader context of the Meuse-Argonne campaign. Their efforts underscored the effectiveness of incorporating diverse communication methods in military strategy, proving vital in the Allied victory.