A compression mechanism comprises a planar spring sheet having a plurality of openings rendering the spring sheet resilient. An electrochemical fuel cell assembly with resilient compression mechanism includes a plurality of fuel cell assemblies interposed between first and second endplates. The mechanism for securing the fuel cell assemblies in their assembled, compressed state includes at least one resilient compression spring sheet (310, 320) extending between first and second endplates (340, 350). Each of the spring sheets urge the first endplate towards the second endplate, thereby applying compressive force to the fuel cell assemblies to promote sealing and electrical contact between the layers of the assemblies. Each spring sheet may be joined at one or both ends to another corresponding opposite spring sheet.