“ On the morning of May 5, the French tried to intimidate the Mexicans with screeching bugle calls and advanced bayonet maneuvers. But after a full day of fighting, including three unsuccessful uphill charges, they were forced to retreat due to heavy casualties .”

Hundreds of people dressed in costumes representing soldiers marked Monday as the anniversary of the 1862 victory by Mexican troops over invading French forces at the Battle of Puebla.