R. N. D.

Copyright © Leonard Sellers, 2001.

ISSN. 1368-499X

It might not always be possible to trace the copyright holders of all the material I will quote, andI would be pleased to hear fromany such persons to whom this applies.

The picture on the front cover is the Nelson Battalion's cap badge. I am grateful to John Morcombe & Kyle Tallett in combining their effortsin order to supply the photograph.

The R.N.D. is produced anddesigned at Honeysuckle House, 17A Bellhouse Road, Eastwood, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex. SS9 5NL. (Telephone 01 702 521550)

E Mail:- [email protected] WESTERN FRONT

BALLADE OF INCIPIENT LUNACY

By Sub Lieutenant A.P. Herbert, Hawke Bn.

Scene:- A Battalion "Orderly" Room in France during a period of"Rest". Runners arrive breathlessly fromall directions bearing illegible chits, and tear offin the same direction with illegible answers or no answers at all. Motor-bicycles snort up to the door, and arrogant despatch-riders enter with enormous envelopes containing leagues ofcorrespondence, orders, minutes, circulars, maps, signals, lists, schedules, summaries, and all sorts. The tables are stacked with papers; the flooris littered with papers; papers fly through the air. Two typewriters click with maddening insistence in a comer. A signaller "buzzes" tenaciously at the telephone, taking in a strange language, apparently to himself, as he never seems to be connected to anyone else. A streamof miscellaneous persons - quartermasters, chaplains, generals, batmen, D.A.D.O.S's, sergeant-majors, staffofficers, buglers, Marine Officers just arriving, officers just going away, gas experts, bombing experts, interpreters, doctors - drifts in, wastes time, and driftsout again.

Clerks scribble ceaselessly, rolls and nominal rolls, nominal lists and lists. By the time they have finished one list it is long out of date. Then they startthe next one. Everything happens at the same time; nobody has time to finish a sentence. Only a military mind, with a very limited descriptive vocabulary and a chronic habit of self­ deception, would call the place orderly.

The Adjutant speaks, hoarsely; while he speaks he writes, about something quite different. In the middle of each sentence his pipe goes out; at the end of each sentence he lightsa match. He may or may not light his pipe; anyhow he speaks :-

"Where is that list ofWesleyans I made? And what are all those people on the stair? Is thismy pencil ? Well they can't be paid. Tell the Marines we have no forms to spare. I cannotget these Ration States to square. The Brigadier is coming round, they say. The Colonel wants a man to cut his hair. I think I must be going mad to-day.

1570. "These silly questions! I shall tell Brigade This office is closing forrepair. They want to know what Mr. Johnstone weighed, And if the armourer is dark or fair ? I do not know; I cannotsay I care. Tell that Interpreterto go away. Where is my signal-pad ? I left it there. I think I must be going mad to-day.

"Perhaps I should appear upon parade. Where is my pencil ? Ring up Captain Aire; Say I regret our tools have been mislaid. These companies would make Sir Douglas Swear. 'A' is the worst. Oh, damn, is that the Maire? I'm sorry, Monsieur -je suis Desole - But no one's pinched your miserable chair. I think I must be going mad to-day."

ENVOI

"Prince, I perceive what Cain's temptations were, And how attractive it must be to slay. O Lord, the General! This is hard to bear. I think I must be going mad to-day."

Sub LieutenantA.P. Herbert.

Ballade of IncipientLunacy was published in 'TheBomber Gypsy' by Methuen& Co Ltd. In1919. I would like to thankA.P. Watt Ltd on behalf of Teresa ElizabethPerkins forpermission to reproduce thispoem.

Note:- This poem could have been inspiredby a routine order that I foundat thePublic RecordOffice, Kew. Reference ADM/37 /3088C - ROUTINE ORDER - I 89th InfantryBrigade by BrigadierGeneral L.F. Philips, D.S.O. Headquarters. Dated 29th March 1917. A & Q BRANCH. A.P. Herbert was Adjutant of the Hawke Battalion, 189th Brigade until wounded 23/4/1917.

370:- WESLEYANS. Nominal rolls in duplicateofWesleyans serving in this Brigade are to be rendered to Brigade Headquartersby Noon, 3151 inst.

1571. R.N.D. PERSONALITY.

BRIGADIER BASIL BEDSMORE (Baby) RACKHAM, M.C.& Bar.

LIEUTANANT & ADJUTANT HAWKE BATTALION.

Basil Bedsmore Rackham was born in Suffolk on 20th November 1896. His father was Reuben Rackman of The Bridges, Wickham Market, Suffolk, who came from old Suffolkyeoman stock. He was very keen on farming and owned a farm at Campsea Ash. However, his main business was a familywater mill later converted to steam. His mother came from a Staffordshire family, and her father was for 17years the organist at Litchfield Cathedral. Rack.ham's second name Bedsmore was his mother's maiden name. When they married his father was 23 years older than his mother as his Father, was over 50 years of age while his mother was in her later twenties. He had two brothers and two sisters, Basil being in the middle and the third boy. His eldest brother was not medically fit, he was also in a reserve occupation, the milling business. It was necessary to keep this open as his father was old by the time war was declared. His second brother was commissioned in the Royal Marine Artilleryand served in France and went out to the island of Mudros. Basil attended Cranham College, where he was a member of the Officer Training Corps. However, just before he was able to take up regular employment the war intervened and he joined the Royal Naval Division as Able Seaman - London Z/1037. On 13/7/1915 at the age of 19 years and 7 months he was commissioned as a Temporary Sub Lieutenant at Crystal Palace into the Hawke Battalion.

"In1914 we expecteda war, all the portends where there. It was inevitable the two fleetswould eventually clash. When war broke out our reactions were that we must join, in the whole country there were anenormous number of volunteers. I was only seventeen andthe age forjoining was eighteen, that's really why we went into the navy, as they would take us in a year earlier. Also, the Royal Naval Division had lost about2000 people after the fall of Antwerp, who had crossed the frontier, into Holland and they were interned. The Division, were then starting to make up the numbers and theyhad an idea to formwhat they called a Public Schools Battalion. We wanted to join that and in factI did join it but eventually it only reached company level, as they soon realised what a waste of material this was.

1572. CrystalPalace.

"Well, I enlisted with my brother into the RNVR, London Division at the Union Jack Club. I was then immediately vaccinated and sent home for 10 days leave and told to rejoin at the Crystal Palace, called H.M.S. Victory VI. I think, our parents were apprehensive as to what might happen but they were proud of us. We thought it would be over by Christmas, but we didn't think much about it. The Crystal Palace was then the trainingdepot forthe division. So I joined 'D' Company of the Hawke Battalion which was the Public Schools Company. It was an extraordinary set up, we worked entirely to naval routine, marching out in liberty boats. That is to say that you couldn't just walk out of the door, you had to put your name down fora certain liberty boat. You were then formedup and you were marchedout ofthe Palace, which I suppose was rowing ashore."

"We had all the naval routine, the trainingwas physical fitness,marksmanship, drill and general discipline and really not much else. All the staffwere naval, except one an exceptional military instructor, ex Guards drill Sergeant, then a Captain Levy ofthe Gordon Highlanders and eventually Lieutenant Colonel Levy. At this time, we were wearing naval rigged bell bottom trousers and blues."

"We were inoculated which was quite the thing, we had a naval surgeon asour regimental doctor, called Bradbury. So we all lined up and in those days they did it in your chest, they just pinched a bit of flesh and stuck the needle in. We all thought old Bradbury liked to use a blunt needle as the blunter the needle the more it hurt and the more he liked it. Anyway, we were all lined up and stripped down and I found that a number ofpeople were very concerned. These were usually the chaps who you would think would be the last to worry, several of them fainted. You had a dab ofiodene applied before the needle. Some were very ill afterit but I was alright.

"I think, I cansay it was a happy time but of course, it was all an extraordinary experience for me having been brought up in a comparatively sheltered home and now thrown into the rough and shod ofthe war, as it were. At the Palace, there were thousands ofus in the main building and the other outer pavilions. The sanitary conditions at that time were not all they might have been. Lots ofspitting on the floor and as a result we had an illness outbreak ofspo tted fever. That is what the doctors put it down to. I suppose they were right and there were numerous cases. It was to me a great shock to see this sort ofthing going on, and indeed, now whenever I see anybody spitting in the street or anywhere else, it horrifies me."

"I came out in a rash and they carted me offto this pavilion, which was named Canada and there it was diagnosed aftera couple ofdays that it was measles and that I didn't have spotted fever. I wasalso told the good news that my application for a commission had been granted."

"All this meant ofcourse, that as I had been carted offand having measles that I missed the reformedHawke Battalion that went down to Blandford Camp and their later embarkation to Gallipoli, I was leftbehind.''

1573. Basil Rackham in sailor's uniform and later in dress uniform. From the Liddle Collection, Brotherton Library, University of Leeds.

I wish to show by appreciation to Richard Davies and Jacqui Taylor for their help in making the reproduction possible of all the Liddle Collection photographs used in this issue of the R.N.D.

1574. "Afterbeing commissioned even though very young I had no problems in giving orders to the other ranks. They were mainly miners fromthe Newcastle area, splendid chaps. An interesting thing is that aftermy measles, when I was fit again, not then having been commissioned but knowing I was to be commissioned I went into the building where our hammocks were hung, being among the miners. I put my pyjamas on and they said "We can't have that short of thing." So offcame my pyjamas and I had to sleep in the naval singlet, which was perfectlyalright but I foundit amusing. These miners, were to be very useful fordi gging our trenches both in Gallipoli but more especially France, were the envy of almost everybody.

Blandford Camp, Dorset on 3rd August 1915.

"Well, I got over the measles and was sent down to the huts of Blandford Camp and there I joined an officer's training group. At Blandford it was also very elementary training, I remember, a lot of quick digging. But we could do some fieldwork and covered leadership skills. It was certainly well directed but of course, the staffwas quite inadequate. We had pretty well the freerun of the country fortraining, but I wouldn't class it as manoeuvres. It was really fieldexercises not above company level. There weren't enough instructorsto cope with it really. One had a platoon to command as well and I was later takenoff for special training. It was all rather rough and ready, particularly because a lot of them were naval personnel trying to put over military training. The hard core work had been headed by Captain Levy and then rather ancient marine Sergeants, who had been on the reserve and called up, they did most of it. Some naval people tried to introduce knotting, but it was only a side line.

Tradition in the Royal Naval Division.

We felttremendously that we were part of the navy, we had great esprit de corps and were very proud. But people who had been in the R.N.V.R. before the warwere very disappointed that they were not going to sea. Later in the war the Naval Division established a tremendous name foritself and was one of the six divisions which were specially mentioned by the Germans as knowing that when those divisionswere present there was going to be an assault, one of the top divisions, as it were. We had a terrificspecial sense of identity and had a great advantage as we had our special training centres, you never left the naval division, where as the army chap might go anywhere, so we were much more of a family.

To Gallipoli with the Hawke Battalion reinforcementdraft :- October 1915.

"We got a train fromBlandford itself and most of the town were there to see us off. The town people and local villages were always very friendly to us at the camp. They were cheering, which did us good, but at Southampton there was nobody. We got aboard the Franconia The officers had excellent accommodation, but the ratings were very crowded. We foundour foodto be firstclass but forthe other ranks it was not so good. But in those days, there was a great gulf fixed between officerand man. I suppose it was a good thingin those days because they looked forleadership, it is very different now. They were looking forthis leadership and admired it and we had some wonderful leaders in the Naval Division."

1575. "On the way, our ship called in at Malta, officerswere allowed to go ashore but not the men. We went round the shops and the dance clubs, but we were only there for about 24 hours. There were heaps of wounded fromthe Gallipoli battlefield, we went to the hospital and talked to the wounded, R.N.D. particularly. We then steamed to Mudros Harbour, the island ofLemnos. What a sight this harbour was, at anchor were many great liners the Aquitania, Olympic etc, as well as naval, cargo and transports. We went ashore, going into a tended camp for about two days."

Ashore at Gallipoli.

"It was at night, that we got aboard a small ship of about 5000 tons and later landed on Gallipoli. You kept saying to yourself, " This is the River Clyde and this is where it all happened and I am here at last." We had heard so much about it as the wounded had come back and we had talked to them, hearing what the landing was like. We just walked through the ship and out at the side, onto a proper pier. We were met by people from the Hawke Battalion and were taken up to our camp, as the battalion was then in reserve. It was very much as we expectedto find it."

"We heard one story about the Hawke Battalion's active service on Gallipoli. We had an excellent commanding officer Colonel Leslie Wilson who was a retired Royal Marine. He had been called back from the reserve and was then the member of Parliament forReading and was a former Chief Whip of the Conservative Party. In July, they ordered just the Hawke Battalion to capture a certain trench, and Colonel Wilson protested hard and he said "I cantake the trench, but I can't hold it, because we will be enfiladed from the right. But they insisted, that it was done and so the Hawke suffered enormous casualties and nobody was left in the trench and so it had to be given up."

"I was the junior and youngest officerin the battalion, I was soon dubbed "Baby Rackham" which I am still known by. A.P. Herbert was at the bottom of it, I said "Why do you call me baby ?" He said "One, because you are the youngest and two because you are B.B. Rackham, which is half baby. I was then commander ofa platoon, which consisted of about fivepetty officers and twenty or thirty ratings."

"The countryside I found myself in had lots ofscrub. When one got over the cliffs Helles was like a great saucer, you could see all over the place. Straight up the peninsula was the hill Achi Baba, looking at you andbefore this, just a fewruins of the village ofKrithia. Visibility was excellent, it was a wonderful sight and most days were lovely and sunny. You could see the whole area set out before you, over to Asia and the naval ships around in the blue sea. It was just a magnificent sight, the area had great beauty, ifit hadn't been so grim, it would have been very pleasant"

"At that time the flieswere certainly still giving problems. Ofcourse, it was trench warfare and so it was a question of finding the frontline. Well the frontlineitself, I should say was about5 miles in. We were then on the left, you might say opposite Krithia but of course, when I actually joined the battalion they were in reserve. They were back in these so called camps which were nothing more than just holes dug in the ground and we got a fewwate rproof sheets and things of that sort and made up a

1576. bit of cover. The system was about eight days in the reserve, then you would move up to the Eski Lines, which were the second line of defence, not in touch with the Turks. You would spend about fouror five days there and then you would do four or five days in the front line, until you went back to reserve. "

"The dead had to be dealt with on the spot becauseof the climate. There was no end of crosses where people had been buried, they were interned rather roughly. As a young man it struckme about the :futility of war, but it was one of those things that just had to be done and that was the price to be paid."

"We got shelled fromthe mainland but there was nothing really to worry about at that time. There was a warning system forshelling by Asiatic Annie, which I think the French dealt with, but of course, we were on the very opposite flank to the French at that stage and we wouldn't hearit. But at that time the shelling fromAsiatic Annie was very light.

"You must realise that on the peninsula at Relles, you were always subject to shell fire, you might get it anywhere. But if you were in the reserve camp, which meant living under ground in dugouts you were not able to move much about in the daytime because it would attract fire. We did have bathingparties, that went down andhad a good wash and washed our cloths there."

"When I arrived jaundice was very rife, there was no end of people with it, but this was not sufficient reason to be evacuated. It made people very lethargic, which didn't help matters. But as the weather got colder the jaundice becameless of a problem."

"The trenches in Gallipoli were about seven to eight feet deep with a firestep, where you could get up to see over the top. However, you couldn't show your head in the ordinary way as the trench lines were in some places only between twenty yards and one hundred yardsapart. The Communication trenches were much biggerand wider than those in the frontline. We had fieldtelephones on wire, but it was always getting cut.There was mining and of course, we did about a week up in the firingline and a week back in the camps and there was shelling certainly every time one went in. The state of morale was very high but those who had been there a long time were in pretty poor shape physically."

"Not long afterI got to Gallipoli, when in reserve, I paid a visit to Anzac.The impression I got was that there was no depth to it, and the terrain was terriblyrough. And fromthe positions, I could not think how they existed. There was not a continuous line of trenches as this could not be, because of the landscape. It was so steep that I think at the Anzac they had better protection fromshellfrre, than we did at Relles. Because at Relles once you got up fromthe beach and over the cliffs you were exposed to the whole Turkish fire."

"I remember, that I took part in a short raid of the Turkish trenches, in order to gain informationand get anidentification. We got into their trench and knocked out one Turk dragging him back, and handed him over to the intelligence people. They wanted to know who was there and what Division they belonged too. Their trenches were as deep as ours, but not riveted, or so well looked after and were very dirty."

1577. "The Royal Navy did bombard the Turks fromthe sea, but at this time they were very worried about submarines and as a resultthey sent out ships called Monitors with their great fifteen inch guns. They had great blisters on their sides, as had all the cruisers, these were supposed to explode the torpedo and not the ship. They were built out onto the side of the ship, like an extra wall. I think they were effective."

"I can't recall an officialwarnin g about likely storms of snow and ice, but as the winter advanced we all knew that it might well happen. When it did we were in the frontlineand the conditions were simply terrible. Not, I think as bad as they were at Anzac where the trenches were almost literally flooded up to the top of the parapet, but we were well over our knees in water as nearly all the dugouts were simply floodedout. Snow made things even more difficult."

"Some people had braziers but it was difficult to get any fuelas there were not many trees. We used bits of wood and pieces fromthe beach, that was all you could get. But this was very scarce, as everybody wanted it."

Opinion of the Turks.

The Turks, we had great respect for. A. P. Herbert wrote 'Half Hours at Relles' a book of poems. One of them is 'The Turk is an honest man and fightsus fair and true but we annoy him all we can, as we are paid to do.' That sums up our feelings. Since the war, we have been very friendlywith the Turks. The Royal Naval Division Association and the Gallipoli Association have frequently had the Turkish Ambassador to our dinners. On one particularoccasion at a House of Commons dinner Lord Halsham proposed a toast to the Turkish Ambassador in a brilliant speech. He said "Mr Ambassador afterthe war you had someone who could tell you the role and the task that you were to perform.We, afterthe second world war, are now waiting to be told our role inthe world." As a matter of interest Mark Beak, V.C. who was in the chair at that dinner, who commanded the Drake Battalion, told the story, that he was on patrol in Gallipoli and he pinched a wrist watch froma dead Turk. He presented thiswatch to the Ambassadorand I am told it is now on view in the Turkish Embassy.

Views on the senior commanders

Everybody liked Sir IanHamilton as they did Birdwood the AnzacCommander. But Hunter Western, Hunter Bunter as we called him, and of course poor Stopford of Sulva Bay we had no time for. We were not really upset and did not think it was wrong when Hamilton was replaced by Monro, aswe thought he was a tired man. Of course, many years later, on a number of occasions, we had Sir Ian to our R.N.D. dinners. We had seen Sir Ian walking round ourtrenches and in reserve, but I never spoke to him. He was rather scruffyin appearance, unlike some others.

Opinions on man & officer

The ratings had a much harder life than the officersexcept on the peninsula where everybody was on the same level. I think this was good as all the veneer was offand you saw through to the person himself, stripped of all class problems. Although, there

1578. was still this gulfbetween the officerand man,this never disappeared, not until after the war. I got on well with the ratings, but the great advantage I had is that I had had to startwith a few months in the ranks, this was a tremendous help. I knew their problems and attitudes, having lived with them. The pyjama incident alwaysreminded me. Ofcourse with people like A.P. Herbert they were very democratic in a way. He disliked the gulfbetween the two, but his intelligence was so much above the ordinary man that he was automatically above them. He feltthat there were two nations. He treated the men as individuals not as officer talking to a man, as a result the men loved A.P. Herbert.

Evacuation.

"We were all very apprehensive after we heard that Suvla and Anzac had been evacuated. Rumours were very rife, we weren't sure what was going to happen to us but very soon after that there were indications, making it pretty certain that we were eventually to go. Soon afterthis, we suffered a very intense bombardment by the Turks in which we lost twenty to thirty men and two officers. The firstreal change that I remember was that we, as a Division, moved over to the right of the line and took over fromthe French. It was considered that it would be preferablethat it should be an all British withdrawal, I think that the French were a bit upset that they were to go first. So the French moved out and we took over from them. We found their trenches not as cleanas ours or anything like as good as we were used too, as they were neglected. "

"Then an order was sent round stating that we the gth Corp were going to be relieved th by 9 Corp. I don't know the reason why it was circulated, but it might have been sent round as propaganda forthe Turks, but it didn't impress us we knew perfectly well that there was no sign ofus beingrelieved."

"Near the end I was sent down with a working partyto the beachto destroy all the liqueur in case the soldiers got hold ofit. We just broke up the bottles and pouredit away."

"We tried to deceive the Turk, there were all sorts ofrifles set up automatically that were going to fire by timing devices, and other booby traps waiting for the Turks who got into our trenches. Jam tin bombs were filledwith gunpowder and any old bits of metal that we could find. They had a switch that would set them offwhen it was pulled, but I don't think they were very effective.

"On the night ofthe evacuation it was an amazingly calm night to startwith and of course, the atmosphere was calm but very tense, wondering what was going to happen. In fact,the whole battalion had come away fromthe front line about fourdays before the evacuation and our job was to hold the last line just above the cliffsat W beach. We manned the old Turkish trenches, but by then they were in a terrible state. We did a bit ofrepair as we thought that we might be in for a very sticky time. We were told that there might be some fifty percent casualties, so it was a time ofhigh tension. I am not saying, by any means, that we were the last off, but in the late night/early morning we thinned out our numbersourselves. By then the sea had roughened and as I came 1579. offwe had a certain amount ofdifficulty in boarding a lighter called a beetle and eventually got on a destroyer, after climbing rope ladders. About a thousandpeople claim that they were the lastto leave, I don't, but I was fairly near the last away. There was no end of equipment leftand worse of all the horses. Stores were firedwhen the last people had left, it was a extraordinary sight."

Mudros and Imbros.

After Gallipoli, we were sent to the island ofMudros and put on shore there, in very uncomfortable conditions. When all the army and most of the ships had gone we were then transported to Imbros, where Sir Ian Hamilton had had his headquarters, beingan island five or six miles to the west. We occupied a hut that he and his staffhad used, this was much more comfortable than the conditions we had been used to. But it could only hold the officers, the ratings were still under canvas which wasn't very pleasant in January, as it was very cold especially at night. The weather did not begin to improve until the beginning of March.On Imbros we were told that we were there as the German ships that had escaped before the Gallipoli Campaign the Goben& Breslue might come out, down the Dardanelles. What we could have done about it, I don't know!

Transfer to France.

In early May we embarked forFrance, at this time Colonel Leslie Wilson was on leave, but we were commanded then by a wonderful officer Commander Ramsey­ Fairfax RN. We landed at Marseilles and I was sent ashore ahead forsome reason or anotherand the papers were then full of a Naval Fleet action, that was the Battle of Jutland.

Training on the Western Front.

We went up to northernFrance by train and were instructed into WesternFront warfare. The idea was rapidly to modernise compared with what we had beenused to on Gallipoli. We were given Lewis Guns, I wassent on a course and becamewhat was called a Lewis Gun Officer.

Western Front, France:- Battle of the Ancre, 13th November 1916.

"This of course, wasthe firstbattle in France that the Royal Naval Division took part, being the last battle in the Somme series. It was a terrible day for the Hawke Battalion which in the earlystages wasdevastated. I should say within 20 minutes of the start of the battle my battalion as a fighting force had ceased to exist."The division was on a front of about 1,200 yards. The section of the ground was level on the top and then went down to the river Ancre, which was really a little stream, being a tributary of the river Somme. The ground then went up to the heights ofThiepval on the other side.

Just before this battle Major General Paris, a marine, who had commanded the division fromthe beginning, was badly wounded and his Staff Officer killed. An army officerwas put in, a very efficientarmy officerI think, but we resented it very much.

1580. At night, there were thousands ofus out in the open waiting forthe attack. If the Germans had known that and concentrated their artillery on us, there would have been terrible slaughter.

"Well, I didn't go over in the firstline but I went over in a later line as my job being the Lewis Gun Officer, was to pick up an ammunition party after the assault had gone over. I got hit through the hand, but it was not much and I got back to the firstaid post, had it bandaged up and then went back to the battle. I was told that with whatever troops I could get hold off, I must stop the Germans from cutting offthe Hood & Drake Battalions.

There was a German strongpoint, which had not been dealt with by the gunners or by the leading troops and one could see the Germans manning it. Actually I saw one shooting at me and I dropped down, unfortunately my batman situatedbehind me caught the bullet and fellonto me, dying in the process. We couldn't do much all that day, but the followingday two tankswere brought up, making various manoeuvres. I thinkthe Germans were so frightened of the tanksthat they simplysurrendered, as up came white flags. I would say there were between two or three hundred Germans that were captured when this strongpoint was mopped up, it had done amazing damage to our battalions, which had came up against it."

"It was very elaborate. The German machine guns, down in the dugout, were on lifts, they were simply raised manually by a winding handle coming into position on top. By being lifted with its crew mounted they were ready foraction. I should think there were halfa dozen machine guns in this strongpoint. It extended over an area of a circular 100 yards, that sort of thing. There the Ancre slopes down quite steeply and then up on the other side to Thiepval, we were just on the level, as it were, and that is where thisstrongpoint was situated. It had devastated both the Hawke and Nelson Battalions. It didn't rise above the level ofthe ground, and as a result was hard to see. Those on the slope and down to the river, mainly the Hood & Drake Battalions were most successful. You see, the strongpoint didn't really cover that area. And they had the amazing leadership given to the Hood by its commanding officerBernard Freyberg, which resulted in his Victoria Cross."

''During the night what were called our firstreinforcements whichwe had left behind, came up and joined us. The Assistant Adjutant, A.P. Herbert was one of them. It was a good thing we had other officers, as I think I was about the only surviving officer of the Hawke Battalion who had gone forward. Also, I should think we had only 30 or 40 men left in the morning whenwe joined up with the Hood Battalion."

"The next morningwe took partin the attack which Freyberg had organised forthe further advance andcapture of the village ofBeaucourt. This took place and hundreds of prisoners that had surrendered were captured, extraordinary! I saw Freyberg on and off, he was right up in fronturging his men on. Of course, because the strong point had been overcome the Howe, Anson and the Marines were able to advance on the left and join up inthe middle where there had been nobody. We had made the longest advance in all of the Somme battles."

1581. "There were three lessons to be learnedafter this battle. (1) That you could not rely on the gunners to overcome all the opposition, they had not destroyed the strong point. (2) That the machine gun's automatic firetogether with barbed wire dominated the battlefield. (3) That the arrival of the tankwas the beginning of the answer to automatic fire, used in a most extraordinary way, not like at Cambrai, but nevertheless the Germans surrendered. Of course tanks were to be used in great numbersby 1918."

How his character was developed by these experiences. Rackham became Adjutant of the Hawke Battalion on 29th July 1917.

''I think, somehow I had the ability to detach myself fromthe terribleexperiences when I wasn't actually there. I always found and I was Adjutant of the battalion for some considerable time, that the most harrowing experience of all was checking up afterwardsas to who was not there and obtainingconcrete evidence concerningthose who had been killed. That I found, because it had to be done so cold bloodily, was more harrowing than being in the actual battle. It is difficult to say how I faced up to religion. I had been brought up in Suffolk in the real old Victorian way. Prayers here andprayers there and church twice on Sunday and so on. And I think that to a certain extent there was a reboundwhen I was let offthe hook. Nevertheless, in times of real stress, it was a great help to me.

Informing the wives & parents of men who had been killed.

"The ratings as we called them in the Naval Division were dealt with at company level, because it was too much forBattalion Headquarters to take on. However, the Commanding Officer invariablywrote to the next of kin of all the officers."

Writing the war diary.

"I always tried to do it because the Adjutant was responsible and so I always tried to do it every day. Every evening but that wasn't always possible."

Commanding Officersof the Hawke Battalion.

"To startwith it was a Colonel Leslie Wilson, he eventually had a very distinguished career as GovernorGeneral of here and there. He was hit on November 13th and then the second in command took over, a Colonel Norris."

Winter of 1917.

Afterthe Battle of the Ancre we had to go back into reserve to obtain reinforcements. We came back into the line again at the same place, just above Beaucourt, this was in early February1917. This was the coldest winter we have ever had, it was terrible. There wasn't really a front line like a continues trench, just little holes.You just couldn't dig anymore, the ground was as hard as bricks. This made us vulnerable and as a result we had considerable casualties.

1582. Action of the Puisieux and River Trenches, February 1917.

I gained the M.C. in the battle of February 1917 when we were told to attack the first two German trenches that they were holding, beyond Beaucourt. At that time I was still the Lewis Gun Officer as well as the assistant Adjutant and I went round the front line sighting the Lewis Guns I suppose in considerable danger. Anyhow, that was my Military Cross. I thought it was undeserved because many other were just as brave.

Awarded Military Cross. For conspicuous gallantlyin action. He showed marked ability in preparing a gun position and continually moved frompositions to positions under heavy gunfire.

On another occasion he displayed great braveryin going round the whole line during an enemy counter attack.

2°d Supp London Gazette. 26.3.17. pp 2985.

April 1917 :- Gavrelle.

"Gavrelle in the Arrasarea was soon afterthe assault by the Canadians at Vimy Ridge. We were in reserve to the DrakeBattal ion and in the course of the day we were ordered up. We had had a regular army officerput in to command us, Colonel Whiteman.,(See serviceRecord) and A.P. Herbert wasthe Adjutantand I was his assistant. We moved up in artillery formation, in the open under very heavy shell fire and just as we reached the battle itself a shell landed on Battalion Headquarters, wounding the Colonel and A.P. Herbert and I was left in charge until we could get a more senior officerup to take over. A.P. Herbert although quite severely wounded, refused to leave until something had beendone and they had got someone else. The Colonel was very seriously wounded andindeed on the way down washit again and killed. The second in command came up and took command of the Battalion and we reinforced the Drake Battalion. Our casualties were not as bad as some other battalions, being about thirty percent.

At Gavrelle the division obtained its objectives, anadvance of about a couple of miles or so, the capture of the village and the windmill so we could consolidate.

Passchendaele.

"I don't oftentalk aboutmy experiences in the First World War but whenever I do I always say that there was nothing so dreadful as Passchendaele. The conditions there were beyond description, it never ought to have been. Mud, mud, mud, if you slipped you were sunk. But it may interest you to know that the Commander, again of the Hood Battalion, this time Arthur Asquith, son of the PrimeMinister had his battalion in reserve to the Brigade, which had attacked beforeus. He observed, andcame to the conclusion that an attack should never be carriedout in daylight. As a result, when our Brigade went forward Asquith got them to give him a clear line where the Staff wantedhim to beby a certain date. He said I will do it by night attacks, whichwe did.

1583. When we got to that line and I am quite sure that as a result of these changes, enormous casualties were prevented to the Royal Naval Division. Asquith didn't get enough credit for that. Whether it fittedin with the battle of attrition is a different matter."

"There was a tendency forpillboxes to besighted round the ruins of what had been the farmhouses. They were very similar to those, which were eventually erected all over England in the Second World War. They were occupied by a comparatively small garrison.There wasn't much else that could be done because all the rest was mud."

"Passchendaele was inhuman."

Winter Conditions.

"In France we had cases of frostbite, but we had trench boots, great big rubber things. You also had whale oil with which you were supposed to dress your feetto prevent this problem. It was effective, but it was difficult to get all the men to do it properly. We didn't have to do anything like that in Gallipoli.

Welsh Ridge.

"We went down to stem a counter attack,moving to a place called Welsh Ridge where in factwe beatoff several counter attacks by the Germans. Once again automatic fire was supreme, we just stopped them. I thinktheir casualties must have beenterrific. Well, we stayed down in that area which was then a comparatively quiet location until the March offensive of 1918.

German March 1918 Offensivewhen in Flesquiers Salient.

That was when the gassing really was a problem, it was mainly mustard but mixed with phosgene. Well of course, if you smelt it you immediately knew, unless it was entirely mixed, which it was on a lot of occasions and then it was difficult. The doctor, would put us on to what type it was when he dealt with the casualties. On the whole the gas discipline was extremely good."

"The shelling, just prior to the German Offensive on March 21 st was very intensive. It went on almost all the time. It was just enough to keep gas there all of the time in our particular area. On this date we were not attacked in our particularsector, I thinkthe idea was to gas us off, as it were. However, we had to retire even though there was no opposition. The Germans followed us but very casually, we got back to our old 1916 Somme battlefields again where we had to beat offa German heavy attack. During the retreat the Royal Naval Division's line was not really broken like it was further south, we just had to get back to comply with the other Divisions. We had been attacked but it was not a main German offensive. Later, Bernard Ellis, the Hawke Commanding officerand I went out on a reconnaissance when he was mortality wounded. (See servicerecord.)

"The particularly unpleasant nature of mustard gas is that it burns andblisters to the touch andalso lingerson equipment so that if you pick up anything that has been

1584. exposed, you will blister your fingers. When we got back to the Somme area, I found that I wasnot effectedon the chest but I was terribly burned by this mustard gas. I don't know why I particularly should have been effected, but we had done a lot of marching. I got very hot andas Adjutant I had been moving about a lot and as a result, I had sweated a lot and the gas seemed to burninto all the vital points of my body. So that at the end of the March retreat I was in such a state that I am afraidI just couldn't carry on, I passed out. I do not remember anything at all until I woke up in London, hospitalised. It is lucky that I never had any lasting effectsfrom the gas but it was very painfulat the time. In fact, the gas did not cause me any breathing problems as I was wearing my gas mask.

Rackham was taken to 14th General Hospital Wimereuy on 29th March 1918. He was sent on to England on 30th March 1918 and transported to the 1 st London Hospital, Camberwell.

Awarded a Bar to his Military Cross. For conspious gallantry and devotion to duty.

Although sufferingfrom the effects of gas he remained at duty and materially assisted in keeping the battalion together. It was only when the enemy's advance had been held up and he was directly ordered to do so that he went to hospital.

5th Supp London Gazette 26/7/1918. Page 8763-4.

Granted Hurt Certificate and awarded a gratuity of £127-11-6 for injuries received. 15th June 1918 To Aldershot 2nd Reserve Battalion.

5lh September 1918 Obtained an excellent report on a course of instruction at Brocton Camp.

No. 1 School of Instruction forInfantry Officers.

Confidentialreport on Lieut. B.B. Rackham, M.C.

Time in service. Time spent on Active In what capacity? Commissioned3 years Service in present Campaign. PlatoonCommander In Ranks9 months. France 1 year 10 months 6 months Gallipoli 6 months Lewis Gun Officer 11 months Adjutant 11 months

Age 21 Wounded once. Gassed once MilitaryCross withbar.

Report of SyndicateCommander.

A. Character. Quiet and conscientious: smartand intelligent. He has a mannerwhich will gain the confidence of all ranks. A keen worker who looks ahead, and thinks quickly.

1585. B. Capabilities. He done excellent work throughout,both in Field and on papei·. He has a very good sound general knowledge, well aboveaverage, and is able to apply it. A good officer in the field, and would make a good Adjutant. Is he fitto command a Company in the Field ? Yes.

Is he fit to command a Platoon in the Field ? Yes.

Signature GEO. W. V. MACPHERSON (Captain) 4th SeaforthHighlanders Sept. 5t1•, 1918. Report by Commandant.

I agree. A keen and capable young Officer, who has gained a very useful knowledge of Open Warfare Tactics. His work has been above the average. Lieut. Rackham is desirous of attending the Adjutants course and should do well. He is fit to commanda company in theField.

Brocton Camp, Stafford. L.N. LUCAS. Lieut. Colonel Commandant.

*******************************************

4th January 1919. Returned to France.

22nd May 1919. To England.

We were de mobbed in June soon after a parade on Horse Guards. There were comparatively few of us, as no end had been discharged fromBelgium. However, those who were left came back to London and there we had this final parade. Winston Churchill, the First Sea Lord, the Prime Minister, Mr Asquith, Admirals of the Fleet, Jacky Fisher, Lord Berrisfordand AK Wilson were present. The three Admirals of the Fleet had extraordinary appointments in that they were honorary Colonels of the three Royal Naval Division's Brigades. Leslie Wilson the former C.O. of the Hawke Battalion was also there, being then back in Parliament. On horse back, the Prince of Wales, inspected the Division and gave us an address, in glowing terms. gth June 1919. Demobilised at C stal Palace. ry I saw service in the Second World War with the Middlesex Regiment and became a Brigadier, taking partin all the operations in Belgium and back to the coast, at Dunkirk.

**************************************

1586. References & Acknowledgements :-

The history of Basil Bedsmore Rackham is takenfrom two taped interviews as follows:-

(1) April 1972. The Liddle Collection, tape 108. (transcript used) Housed at the Special Collections, Brotherton Library, Leeds University. I wish to thank RichardDavis for his help and advice. Also Rackham' s daughter Gillian Dawson of the U.S.A. for giving me permission to reproduce this material. And I acknowledge the help of his Grandson Philip Dawson and MrsMargaret Booth Smith inthis matter.

(2) Also the tape interview of the Department of Sound Records, Imperial War Museum, London. SR 8227 that was recorded in 1984. I would like to thank MrPeter Hartfor his help in this respect.

Service Records :-

BernardHenry Ellis DSO. Commander Hawke Battalion. Promoted from the ranks. Formerly Lon 1/748 R.N.V.R. CPO Benbow Bn. 26/10/1914. Temp Sub Lieutenantat Crystal Palace. Dec1914 a Temp Lieutenant Blandford. M.E.F. withBenbow BN. May 1914. 10/06/1915. Appointed Adjutant. Anson Bn. 18/10/1915 LieutenantCommander. 30/11/1915 2nd In Command Anson Bn. Disembarked Marseilles19/05/1916. Awarded D.S.O. In Connectionwith operations North of Ancre. (Supp Lon. Gaz. 26/01/1917. Page 1015). Course of InstructionAldershot 07/01/1917. Mentioned In Despatch. (Lon. Gaz. No 30072. 15/05/1917.) 27/04/1917. Temp Commander. 26/03/1918 5thBritish Red Cross Hospital. Severegun shot wound in neck. Dangerously ill but may be visited. Died of wounds in action Sunday, 2151 April 1918, age 33 years. Son of Henry and MargaretEllis; husband of Marjorie Ellis, of 8, Elm Park Gardens, West Brompton, London. Buried Wimereux Communal Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Grave IV. B. 3. Wimereuxis a small town situatedabout 5 kilometres north ofBoulogne. Details fromCommonwealth War Graves Commission.

John Whiteman. Lieutenant Colonel 4th Bn., MiddlesexReg iment attachedRN. Div. (Commanding Hawke Bn.), Royal Naval VolunteerReserve. Died Wednesday, 25th April 1917. Age 44 years. Son of Mr. And Mrs. Walter Whiteman, of Wanganui, New Zealand; Husband of Alice Phoebe Whiteman, of AlderminsterLodge, nr. Stratford-on-Avon. Served in the South AfricanCampaign. Buried at Aubigny Communal CemeteryExtension, Pas de Calais, France.Grave VI.D.5. Aubigny-en-Artoisis a village approximately 15 kilomatersnorth-west of Arras on the road to St.Pol (N39). Details from CommonwealthWar Graves Commission.

Note:- Servicerecords aretaken fromthe books 'Recordof Royal Naval Division's Officer'sService' ROS 182. Voll & ". Admiralty Library, Great ScotlandYard, London.

Details of burial from theCommonwealth War Graves Commission data base.

1587. THE DIARIES OF SUB-LIEUT JAMES CURZON HILTON, 'D' COMPANY, HOOD BATTALION .. th lstAUG. 1915 TO 12 JUNE 1916.

PART TWO OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 1915. (Copyright R.E. Charter, nee Hilton)

Transcribed by C. B. Charter. November/December 1999.

Friday October lst. 1915

Heavy mist early this morning. Got up at 8.0 am & had breakfast. At 10.0 am I had to take a party of 32 men to our new ground between "X" & Gully beach. Sid was left in Camp as Orderly Officer. Had lunch at 12.30. We sat on the edge of the cliff& enjoyed a lovely sea breeze, & watched the destroyers patrolling up & down. A General & two Lieut Cols came to see how work was progressing. At 3.30 pm we started back for camp. The dug outs by the way were 15' x 8' by 3' deep & had two doors. Each held 6 men. Had tea at 4.30 pm. Dinner at 7.0 pm. Heavy rifle fire tonight.

Saturday Oct 2nd.1915

Got up at 6.30 am & had a good wash. Had omelette forbreakfast. Parade at 10.0 am & rifle inspection. Very warm & pleasant all day. Lunch at 12.30. Had a good sleep this afternoontill 4.0 pm when we had tea. The Rev Cairns joined us fortea. Inspection at 6.0 pm. At 6.20 pm I had to inspect the men who were going to act as guard for the 8th Army Corps at W beach. Dinner at 7.0 pm. We had two visitors Major Peel & Lieut Kelly. The formerwas very interesting. Turned in about 9.0pm.

Sunday Oct 3rd 1915

Got up at 6.30 am & washed ready to change the guard at 7.0 am, as I am Orderly Officer today. I attended Holy Communion at 7.30 am. It was held just near Div: Hd Qrs, in a dug out for horses. There were 6 of us there including General Paris, another officer, myself & 3 men. The Rev Close took the service. Had breakfast at 8.0 am, boiled eggs & half a hot roll. Parade at 9.30 am. Saw digging party offat 10.30 am, 40 men & 3 LS under Sub Lt Vines. Had lunch at 12.30, curried eggs & rice pudding. At 1.15 pm I visited all the sentries. Then I inspected the 6 cases of goods for the troops sent by Lady Hamilton. Wrote a letter this afternoon. Had tea at 4.0 pm, Capt Paris came as a guest. After tea I served out the gift boxes, one to each Coy, one for Hd Qrs & one between Battn POs & CPOs. Attended parade at 6.30 & took the Battn. State. Saw the prisoners stand to arms from 6.30 to 7 .15 pm. Then had a good dinner, boiled beef & pickles followed by rice pudding. Visited all sentries at 8.15 pm. Then turned in at 9.0 pm. About 5.0 am the Turks made an attack on the French right wing. 1588. Monday Oct 4tb 1915

Had to be up at 5.0 am to see the prisoners stand to arms from 5.30 to 6.15 am. Changed the guard at 7.0 am. At 8.0 we had breakfast, poached eggs on toast. Finished my letter this morning. A big letter mail came in. Had lunch at 12.30, enjoyed the rissoles & Worcester Sauce very much. At 1.40 pm I had to take a party digging in new bivouac area. Brought them back by 4.15 pm. Lieut Montague came in for dinner tonight. We had steak& onions followedby peaches.

tb Tuesday Oct 5 1915

Got up at 8.0 am. Had a parade at 10.0 am. Wrote letter afterwards. Lunch at 12.30. At 1.30 pm Sid, Vines & myself set offfor De Torts Battery on the edge of Morto Bay, to try & bomb some fish, Vines threw 3 bombs in but without success. Sid & I had swim round offone of the "Haverford" boats. Got back for tea. Gibson, Edmondson (See Service Record) & Co arrived back from Tenedos tonight & brought large quantities of provisions with them. Had a good dinner offrissoles.

th Wednesday Oct 6 1915

Up at 7.30 am. Breakfast at 8.0 am, eggs & bacon. Had an inspection of all the men's gear at 10.0 am. The rest of the morningI spent packing up my gear before going to the trenches. Lunch at 12.0 noon. At 2.0 pm Sir Ian Hamilton arrived at D.H.Q. At 3.0 we moved offto the trenches. Arrived in LancashireSt about 4.30 pm & stayed there till after stand to arms about 8.0 pm when we went to the firing line & occupied a portion to the left of sap 6. Sid, Chapman & I shared the watches, each taking 3 hrs. I took the last watch from 2.30 am to 5.30 am.

th Thursday Oct 7 1915

On watch from2.30 am to 5.30 am. A Turk kept us awake by singing or droning for 1 1/2 hrs, hardly without stopping. Stand to arms from 5 to 6 am. Got a little sleep afterwards & had breakfast at 8.45 am. After stand to arms Gibson & I made some cocoa au lait & enjoyed it very much. Gen: Paris & his staffcame round about 11.0 am. We had a 3. 7" trench howitzer going in No 6 barricade this morning. Weather still warm & bright. About 11.30 am a Taube flew over our lines & was attacked and driven offby a French biplane. On watch tonight from8.0 pm to 11.0 pm when I was relieved by Chapman.

th Friday Oct 8 1915

Stand to arms at 5.0 am. Had a bad attack of diarrhoea before breakfast. Went better during the day. General Pariscame round our sector this morning. Chapman took first watch tonight.. Just after stand to arms about 7.15 pm it went very dark & then commenced to thunder & lighten & rain came down in torrents, Sid & I had rigged up some waterproofsheets & managed to keep fairly dry. The French got very nervous & opened rapid fire so we all had to stand to arms for some time. When I went on watch at 11.0 pm it was still raining merrily but stopped about midnight. But it left the trenches very bad under foot.

1589. th Saturday Oct 9 1915

Roused Sid at 2.0 am & turnedin myself. Stand to arms at 5.0 am. till 6.0 am & then had another sleep before breakfast. (Sid went to sick bay to get his arms dressed where he had been bitten) We bombed the Turks a lot today from No 6 barricade with a 3.7" trench howitzer, a trench garland, a catapult, rifle grenades. We expected the C in Chief (Sir Ian Hamilton) round this afternoon but he didn't come. Just after 3.0 pm one of my men E. Break.well got shot through the head & very seriously wounded. At 8.30 pm I turnedin.

tb Sunday Oct 10 1915

Chapman woke me up at 2.0 am to go on watch. I was on till 5.15 am when we stand to arms. Everything was very quiet during the night. At 6.0 am I turned in again till 8.0 am when we had breakfast of bacon & bread. Sid went to sick bay at 9.30 am to get his arms dressed. (This diary is continued in my yellow leather note book)

th Sunday Oct 10 1915

I felt very sick & tired this morning. Had another sleep after breakfast. Gen Paris came round the lines about 10.0 am. Lunch at 12.30 but I couldn't eat much. Had a good wash this morning. Very warm & bright again today. I was on watch from 12 to 3.0 pm At 3.15 I had to start with a party of men with picks & shovels to go to Pink Farm, as a funeral party for AB E.Breakwell of my platoon who died of wounds. On our way down just as we got past Battn Hd Qrs we had to stand to attention whilst the G.O.C. in Chief (Sir Ian Hamilton) & all his staffwent by on a tour of inspection of our trenches. (Strange to say they only inspected the support line & not the Firing Line.) Sir Ian was conspicuous by his 3 rows of ribbons. I felt very proud when Sir Ian said "How do you do"? to me. I proceeded to Pink Farm & set the men to work digging the grave. We then went to Surgeon Adam's dug out & had an excellent tea offbuttered toast & cake & 2 cups of tea just like I get at home. Later on the Wesleyan padre joined us & had tea. About 5.30 pm we went out & held the funeral service over Breakwell's body. We got back to the firing line a little before 7.0 pm. We got news today that the Russians had bombarded a Bulgarian port. I took first watch tonight from 8 to 11.0 pm & was then relieved by Sid.

th Monday Oct 11 1915

Stand to arms at 5.0 am, till 6.0 am. Then I was on watch till 9.0am. Had rissoles for breakfast. Just afterbreakfast whilst I was inNo 6 Barricade I was hit by a piece of glass about 1 1/2" square, in the left ear. It came from a periscope broken by a Turkish sniper. My ear bled somewhat so I had to go and have it dressed. Sid also went to have his "bites" dressed. I had a rifle inspection at 11.0 am. We had some very good cold beef for lunch with pickles, followedby an apple & some figs. It came on to rain heavily about 1.0 pm & lasted for about an hour. I got under my waterproof sheet shelter & managed to keep fairly dry. When I went on watch at 3.0 pm it was quite fine & sunny. My orderly brought me another mail from Camp. Had dinnerat 5.30 pm. Fried meat, French beans & leek, followed by cherries & macaroni. Stand to arms at 6.20 pm till 7.0 pm. Then I turnedin till 11.0 pm when I relieved Chapman.

1590. th Tuesday Oct 12 1915

Was on watch till 2.0 am when Sid relieved me. Stand to arms at 5.15 am till 6.0 am. Then I had a good sleep till 8.15 when we had breakfast, eggs & bacon. Was on watch from 9.0 am to 12.0 noon. Rifle & ammunition inspection at 9.45 am. Heard that Freyberg had beenmade a Commander. Bully beef & pickles for lunch. Went round this afternoon & made a list of all trench gear forMr Asquith. Sid was detailed to superintend the wiring party tonight. Dinner at 5.0 pm, tough steak & French beans. At 8.30 pm when the moon had gone down we commenced our wiring. Rain came on which helped us a little. At 9.15 pm we had finished, having put out 19 barbed wire trestles, luckily without any casualties. Sid took first watch from10.0 p to 12.20.

th Wednesday Oct 13 1915

I was on watch from 2.40 am to 5.15 when we stood to arms. After stand to arms we made some Oxo. I had an hours sleep before breakfast. Went to Sick Bay & had my ear dressed this morning. Afterlunch which wasa very poor one, I wrote a letter. About 4 .0 pm my platoon was relieved by some Marines. We got back to camp about 6.15 pm & had dinner at 7 .15 pm

th Thursday Oct 14 1915

Got up at 8.15 am & had breakfast, bacon & eggs & tomatoes. Rifle inspection at 10.30 am. Then I went to Taylors Post to the Drs & had my second inoculation against Cholera Afterwards I went to Morto Bay & Sid & I had a swim. It was very cold but very invigorating. Had lunch when we got back, boiled bacon which was very good, followed by pineapple & peaches. Had my hair cut. Packed my gear ready to go to Kephalos. We startedoff for the beach at 3.15 pm. Lieut Cockey, Sub Lt Brandt, (see service record) Fish & myself. We got our passes at "W" beach from the M.L.O. & about 5.0 pm a picket boat took us aboard a trawler going to Imbros. We made ourselves comfortable & read the Times (Sept 26th) & in one I saw that Lieut Col Barlow of the 2nd Reserve Battn at Blandford, had resigned his commission. We arrived at Kephalos about 7.0 pm & were taken ashore at K beach in a motor boat. We then made our way to the Officer's Rest Camp about 400 yds away & reported to Capt Wilson. He showed us our tent, we had one between fourofus & then we had dinner, stew, figs & rice & cheese.

th Friday Oct 15 1915

Got up at 7.30 am & had a good wash. Then had breakfast at 8.0 am, bacon & fried eggs, followed by bread & butter & jam. At 9.30 am Sid & I started offto get some mules to take us to Panaghia. We paid 2/- for our time in Rest Camp. We hired 10 mules between 6 ofus, Lieut Wickham (See service record) & Sub Lt Hope (See service record) had now joined us. Two mules were used for our baggage. We started offfor Panaghia about 11.0 am Sidney leading the way then Brandt, then Myself , then Wickham, then Hope, & some distance in the rear Cocky with the baggage mules. The guides & drivers followed us on foot. We had a very pleasant 7 mile ride across the hills, the track being very rough in places. We had plenty of fun on the way especially near the end of our journey, when there was great competition to who should get into Panaghia first. Sidney led most of the way but just near the end my mule 1591. made a ripping sprint & I arrived in the village a good 200 yds in front of the rest. Sid came in 2nd. We stopped outside the "London's" Restaurant & waited for Cocky to arrive. We were uncertain whether to put up at "the London's" or the "Grand Britannia" kept by John Christo. However the latter had nowhere for us to sleep. Before we unpacked the mules we went to see Lieut Stocks who was acting as governor of the village. He advised us to put up at the "London". So we unpacked our luggage & ordered a good lunch. Partridge, omelette & mutton, with a drink of lemonade. After lunch Sid, Hope & Myself went fora walk round the village & called on Lieut Stocks & had a talk & a cigarette with him. We afterwards did a little shopping. An Australian Officerjoined us at dinner tonight. We turned in early , Sid, Hope & myself slept in a large bedroom downstairs. The other 3 had to sleep in a house outside as the upstairs bedroom was occupied by 3 army officers.

Saturday Oct 16 1915 tb Got up about 9.0 am & had a good wash & shave. It was after 10.0 before we got breakfast. The attendant here called "Charles" can speak English fluently as well as Greek. Afterbreakfast Sid & I went fora short walk to explore the village. We saw a tree with some fruit on which we took to be apples. So we bought some by pointing to our money & then to the tree. When we got our teeth into them they turned out to be "quince" not apples. We also saw a tree laden with pomegranate, they looked very pretty growing. We had another walk round after lunch & called at the Britannia for a drink of lemonade, & bought some jam, biscuits & figs there. The airship "Silver Sausage" flew over the village this afternoon & caused great excitement amongst the natives. The poultry were also very much scared at the strange monster overhead. Turned in about 10.30 pm. Cocky, Wickham & Hope slept upstairs tonight & Brandt slept downstairs with Sid & I.

th Sunday Oct 17 1915

Got up about 8.0 am & had a wash. Only had a small breakfast as I felt sick & had diarrhoea. I stayed indoors all day today, & didn't feel at all well. We had a row with the proprietor this afternoon over the price of a bottle of beer. Brandt & Cocky took him up before Stocks & as a result he is going to get straffed & probably lose the hotel. Sid walked to Castro this afternoon. It rained most of today & made things very unpleasant. I wrote ppcs all afternoon to everyone I knew. Didn't have any dinner but went to bed early.

th Monday Oct 18 1915

Up at 7.30 am & had a good wash. Felt very weak & ill this morning with diarrhoea & sickness. Still raining this morning. After breakfast Sid & I went out & did some more shopping & said goodbye to Lieut Stocks. Packed up our gear & had lunch & then paid our bill. About 2.15 pm our mules arrived & we started back to Kephalos. Just as we were leaving we passed Cmdr Samson of the RNAS just coming in & looking very humble riding on a donkey. He had an RNVRLieut with him. Nothing exciting happened on the journey back to camp. We had one or two little races to relieve the monotony if there was any. The scenery in places was very fine. We arrived at Kephalos about 4.30

1592. pm & after paying the mule drivers we made a rush for the canteen to buy stores. We found treasures untold & luxuries galore. We were there nearly an hour at the end of which I had spent quite a fortune. This business finished with we found our tent in the rest camp & had our gear taken there. Sid, Hope myself & Lieut Humphreys of the West Yorks Regt, shared a bell tent between us. At 7.0 pm dinner was served, tinned salmon followed by roast mutton & beans & potatoes. Then rice & quinz, & cheese to finish up with. Sid & I turnedin about 8.30 pm.

th Tuesday Oct 19 1915

Had to get up at 5.30 am ready forbreakfast at 6.0 am. Had an egg & bacon & jam. Then I rushed offto the Canteento buy another bottle of Roses Lime Juice Cordial. We got our baggage on a limber, but as no working party arrived we had to shove the thing to the beach ourselves, but it was only a matter of 400 yds. We got the boat due to leave at 7.0 am forRelles. It was trawler 696 [?] that we went on, but she didn't sail till nearly 7.30 am. The passage to Helles was very nice although a bit wet in parts, & we arrivedat W beach about 9.30 am, & were landed on a motor boat. When our stuffwas safely ashore we reported to the M.L.O, & then made our way slowly back to Camp. Had lunch & then opened my letters & parcels. At 3.0 pm I had an inspection of my platoon. At 4.30 pm we had a little tea party in our dug out & invited Edmondson & Gibson. Sid attended the rum issue at 5.45 pm. Had dinner at 7.0 pm rissoles followedby sago pudding.

th Wednesday Oct 20 1915

Got up at 8.0 am & had breakfast of bacon & sausage with tomato. Had to have our packs ready by 9.30. Had an inspection of all the men's gear & rifles at 10.0 am. Lunch at 12.30 tinned salmon & herring. About 2.0 pm we moved offto the trenches. The lst platoon went into the firing line in W' ster barricade along with sections of the 2nd platoon. The remaining platoons of D Coy & all A Coy acted as supports & occupied Worcester Flat. Had a very poor dinner about 5.0 pm 2 very doubtful eggs and a piece of bread. Stand to arms at 6.15 pm till 7.0 pm. Very moonlight. I shared the watch in the support line with Brandt of A Coy & Stuart the A Coy C.P.O. My first watch was from 10.0 pm to midnight & then Brandt came on. During the night the Royal Scots on our left occupied a large piece of the enemies trench without a casualty.

st Thursday Oct 21 1915

I relieved Stuart at 4.0 am & was on watch till 5.30 am when we all stood to arms. Went very cold early this morning. At 6.15 am I went down to the galley in "B" Communication Trench to see P.O. Burnhill about the men's breakfast. I waited there about anhour & saw the bacon cooked & served out. We had our breakfast at 8.30 am, & had 2 slices of bacon & some fried tomato. As we still felt hungry afterwards I opened a small tin of ham & tongue paste that I had, & we divided it between Gibson, Sid, & myself. Then we divided a small pot of myrtle jam I bought at Panaghia Rifleinspection at 9.15 am. Sid was on duty in the barricade from 9.30 am for 3 hrs. Wrote a letter to Mabel. Had a jolly good lunch of lobster & chicken & ham paste & pickles. Enjoyed a good wash this afternoon. At 4.0 pm Sid & I had pineapple & gingerbread with Gibson.

1593. Had a look round the barricade with Asquith afterwards & noted the work to be done tonight. Had a rather hasty dinner about 6.0 pm, but enjoyed tapioca pudding & pineapple. Stand to arms at 6.15 pm. I was on duty in the barricade from7.0 pm to 10.30 pm. During this time we made a new loophole & pushed forward the T head. Gibson took watch in the Supports tonight & I took hisplace in the Barricade.

nd Friday Oct 22 1915

Up at 5.30 am for stand to arms. I relieved Sid in the barricade at 6.30 am. We bombed the Turks with cricket ball bombs fora time & they bombed us in returnbut none came in the Sap. Had my breakfastbrought to me in the Barricade about 8.30 am, & had cold eggs & bacon. However I opened a small tin of ham & tongue paste, of my own to satisfying my appetite. At 9.30 am I was relieved by Chapman. Wrote a letter to Miss Wells (Breakwell's next of kin). Sub Lt Galloway (See service Record.) came past & I had a long chat and a cigarette with him. He is now the Adjutant of the Nelson Battn: Just before lunch it came on to rain & kept at it all afternoon. We had lunch in Mr Asquith's dug out, tinned salmon & sardines followed by jam & bread & figs. I kept in Mr A's dug out writing till 3.30 pm when I relieved Sid in the Barricade. Everything very quiet this afternoon, still raining at 5.30 pm. Had dinner in the Barricade & enjoyed it very much. Hot soup, followed by rissoles & French beans, & finished up with rice pudding & figs. Stand to arms at 6.15 pm. AfterwardsI turned in till 10.30 pm, when I relieved Sid in the Barricade. A very wet & misty night, mud underfoot& cold & wet.

rd Saturday Oct: 23 1915

I was relieved by Gibson shortly after2.0 am, & was glad to get some sleep. About 3.45 am Gibson was badly wounded. He was hit in the thigh, whilst moving a wiretrestle. The wound turned out to be very serious as his thigh was broken. I hear he was taken to Malta at 3.15 pm today. Had toasted bread & bacon for breakfast. At 9.30 am I went on duty in the Barricade & relieved Sidney. Turned out a fine morning & remained fine all day. During my watch I had to entertain quite a lot of red tabs, who came nosing round as usual. The first was the Brigade Major (Major Tuppman). He was unusually affable to me. Then came General Paris along with Capt Paris & Major Sketchley. The General was very interested in the bombing, & told me to bomb as much as possible. My observer Barwick, went to hospital this morning with yellow jaundice, so I got a fellow called Baldwin in his place. We had lunch in MrAsquith's dug out, as I was relieved in the Barricade at 12.30 by Sid. We had bully beef& brawn for lunch followed by tapioca pudding. I spent this afternoonmaking my dug out rain proof. My observer made a very good job of it by means of some timber, wire netting & sand bags. During the afternoon Sid & I indulged in a tin of pineapple, Mabel had sent me. Had dinner at 5.0 pm. Sub Lt Ridder the 3.7" howitzer officer had dinner with us. Stand to arms at 6.15 Chapman took firstwatch & Sid the second. I turnedin at 7.0 pm & was able to read by candle

tb Sunday Oct: 24 1915

Went on watch in the Barricade at 2.0 am & relieved Sidney. During my watch we were bombed twice by the Turks, once at 4.15 when they sent 3 bombs over & again at 5.15 am when they sent one bomb. None of them came in our trench or did any harm. We

1594. bombed them back each time vigorously. Stand to arms from5.30 am to 6.30 am, at the end of which I was relieved by Chapman. I had a short sleep before breakfast. We had a most excellent breakfast this morning, the best I have had on the Peninsula. We began with some ripping porridge & then went on to sausage & bacon, to finish up we had Robertson'sapricot jam & bread & some good hot cocoa. Sid went on duty at 9.30 am. I turned in my dug out to rest & write letters & fill up my diary. Very cold & blowy this morning & cloudy overhead. I went on duty at 12.30 & had lunch in the sap, cold boiled bacon & pickles followed by apricot jam & biscuits. Afterlunch I wrote a letter. At 3.30 I was relieved by Chapman so Sid & I went to Mr A's dug out with a tin of peaches & some biscuits & had a little party. Heald came in &made up the four. Dinner at 5.15 pm, rissoles &. French beans followed by sago pudding & apricots & hot coffee. I took first watch tonight & was on from 6.30 pm to 9.30pm. We had Sec Lt Towse to share the watch with us, which made things better. The Engineers were also working in the Barricade & put up two new bridges near the mine.

th Monday Oct: 25 1915

Stand to arms at 5.30 am. I relieved Sid in the Barricade at 6.30 am & then spent some time examiningthe Turkish lines through my field glasses. I located several loopholes in the parapet near to us & promptly strafed one. About 8.15 I got my breakfast, & had it in the Barricade. It consisted of very good porridgefollowed by bacon & tomato, & finished up with raspberry jam. I was relieved at 9.0 am by Chapman. The remainder of the morning I spent in having a jolly good wash & tidy up, my firstsince last Wednesday. We had lunch at 12.30. At 2.0 pm I relieved Sid in the Barricade. The Turks bombed us but did no damage. Capt Paris came round with a StaffMajor of K.O.S.B's. Two Surgeons also came having a look round & arrived just as the Turks were bombing us. I was relieved at 4.30 pm by Chapman. Just about this time, the Turks artillery became very lively, & ours did ditto. At 5.15 pm we had dinner, just Sid & I as Mr Asquith had gone to see the new winter quarters. Immediately after stand to arms I turned in. At 10.10 pm I relieved Sid in the barricade. It was a very moonlight night & not unpleasant being on watch.

th Tuesday Oct; 26 1915

At 1.30 am I was relieved by Chapman & turned in. Stand to arms at 5.30 am, rained a little early this morning. wentI to the cook's galley beforebreakfast again this morning. At 9.30 am I relieved Sid in the Barricade. We got some of the London Fusiliers this morning to help in the Barricade. Major Tuppman came round this morning, & soon afterwards Col Richardson came. I had to make a report on some defective cricket ball bombs which had loose detonators. I had lunch in the Sap, just about 12.0 noon, bully beef& macaroni pudding. Chapman relieved me at l .Opm. This afternoon I had a very lazy time in my dug out writing, reading & resting. It rained a little bit. Just before dinner our monitors & artillery began to strafe the Turks. After dinner I went on watch in the barricade from 6.30 pm to 9.15 pm. During this time our monitors fired about 6 shots at a Turkish redoubt on our right. There was also some rapid firing in the direction of the Drake Battn. Sid relieved me at 9.15 & I turnedin.

1595. th Wednesday Oct: 27 1915

Stand to arms at 5.30 am. At 6.30 am I was on duty again in the Barricade & relieved Chapman. Had my breakfast at 8.0 am & at 9.0 I was relieved by Sidney. I took some photographs this morning of the catapult & the for'dBarricade. Nice bright morning. Sid & I had lunch together in my dug out about 12.0. We had a tin of salmon , & then some chicken & ham paste , followed by a tin of peaches. After lunch we tidied up & then stood by ready to move offat 3.30 pm, but was after 5.0 before "C" Coy of the Rowe's relieved us. By the time we got back to camp it was dark. We found a new draft of 5 officers& 200 men had arrived. Dinner at 7.0 pm & then we turnedin early.

th Thursday. Oct: 28 1915

Got up at 7.0 am & went for a bathe with the Dr, Edmondson & Sidney. Enjoyed it very much & tried some salt water soap. Got back for breakfast at 8.15 am. Egerton's birthday today. Had a platoon inspection at 10.15 of rifles, iron rations etc. Spent a very lazy day on the whole, tidying up etc. The men were paid at 4.30 pm, I got £4. Dinner at 7.0 pm.

th Friday Oct: 29 1915

Got up at 6.30 am. Had breakfast with Edmondson at 7.30 am. At 8.0 am we had to take all available men to the new winter bivouacs to dig. We were there all morning & got back forlunch at 12.30. Sub Lts Hall, Vines & Chapman went to Imbros this morning via Suvla. Seven out of eleven of my platoon were on guard today. This afternoon I rested and wrote letters. At 6.30 pm Comdr Freyberg presented Ramsay (the bomber) with his certificatefor gallant conduct. Nine men of the new draftwere told offto my platoon.

tb Saturday. Oct 30 1915

Arose at 8.0 am & had breakfast. The rest of the morning I spent in censoring letters, & then in writing some. A lovely morning, in factjust like being in the country at home. All my platoon were away digging this morning. Lieut Cmdr Asquith went today to take temporary command of the Nelson Battn. Sub Lt Morrison was given command of D Coy. We had a new officer called Templeton came to our Coy. After tea today Edmondson & I borrowed a bike & went to Morto Bay for a swim, & enjoyed it immensely.

st Sunday.Oct31 1915

Got up at 7.15 and went to Holy Communion at 7.30. There were about 12 there including Gen: Mercer. Sid took the working party to our new winter quarters at 8.0 am. A & B Coys moved into the new bivouac today. I spent the morning censoring letters. After lunch I had a very lazy time writing & resting. At 6.30 there was a church service for the whole Battn. Padre Cairns preached a very good sermon. While we were having dinner it came on to rain very heavily & a strong wind got up. Unfortunately a deal of rain blew into our dug out.

1596. st Monday Nov 1 1915

Got up at 7.30 am, had breakfast at 8.0. After breakfast we had to start packing up our gear ready to move into our winter bivouac. Mr Asquith was away in temporary command of the Nelson Battn, so Sub Lt Morrison had charge of D Coy. C Coy moved offat 9.0 am & D Coy about 10.0 am Sid went with the Coy, but I had to stay behind with Edmondson & pack up the mess gear & see it put on the GS wagon. Very bright & warm morning. We had lunch at Hd Qrs. Afterwards we moved offto the new area. Here I found Sid superintending the making of our new dug out, so I relieved him while he had some lunch. All afternoon I worked on the dug out till 3.30 pm when I went back to the old camp to see about the remainder of the gear. Had tea when I got back, & then continued with our dug out. Tonight we had dinner outside as the mess wasn't finished. We slept in our new home & were very comfortable.

nd Tuesday. Nov: 2 1915

Got up at 7.45, breakfast at 8.15. We had to continue on very short bread ration again today, having only half a slice each per meal. We made up the rest with biscuit. I worked all morning and afternoonon our dug out making some very necessary improvements. Sid was Orderly Officer. Hall, Vines & Chapman came back from Imbros this morning. At 5.0 pm aftertea I had an inspection of my platoon & then had to attend a rum issue. From now till dinner time at 7.15 pm I was in my house reading the Wn Observer etc. After dinner I retired to bed.

rd Wednesday Nov: 3 1915

Up at 7.15 am & went fora bathe with Edmondson to X beach. Changed into clean things beforebreakfast, ready for the trenches. Had an inspection of rifles etc at 10.0 am. Spent the rest of the morning packing up my gear. Had lunch at 12.30. Still very short of bread. Took 18 men all told up to the trenches, & left 3 men & 1 LS behind to go to Mudros fora rest. We moved offfor the trenches about 2.15 pm & followed A Coy. D Coy had to man the firing line between Sap 6 & Union St exclusive of both. My platoon had to go into support in Worcester Flat as there wasn't room in the firing line for all the Coy. Had dinner at 5.0 pm. Stand to arms at 5.45 pm. till 6.30 pm. I shared watches with B Coy who were in support on the right. Went on watch at 10.0 pm till 12.0 midnight when I was relieved by Barrow-Green. Starts new diary

From Nov: 4th 1915 to Jan: lOth 1916

STRICTLY PRIVATE.

James Curzon Hilton Wood Cottage Pemberton Wigan. Lanes England (Pencil is faint& rain-stained]

1597. tb Thursday .Nov: 4 1915

I am on watch again in Worcester Flat at 4.0 am. At 4.30 am a bombardment of the Turkish trenches began & continued till nearly 7.0 am. We stood to arms at 5.45 am till 6.30 am. I had breakfast at 8.0 am. At 9.0 am I was told I had to move my platoon into No 6 Sap & No 6 Barricade to relieve a platoon of A Coy. A platoon of C Coy under Sub Lt Vines relieved me in Worcester Flat. I had 6 men & 1 LS on duty in the barricade. At 12.0 noon, Hill Sid & myself had lunch in Sid's dug out. Chapman & Tamplin had their lunch together. Came on to rain a little during lunch, & went very dull looking. I got my

observer (Mr Glynn[?]) & two men to work making me a shelter for tonight. Rained heavier this afternoon so Sid & I had to join our waterproof sheets & make a joint shelter. Had dinner at 5.0 pm & a Lieut out of the West Kent Yeomanry who was a friend of Mr A 's joined us. We shared a partridge which Hall shot at Panaghia & it was excellent. Stand to arms at 5.45 pm. Very gloomy overhead. Sid turned in at 6.30.

tb Friday Nov: 5 1915

I relieved Sid at 12.0 midnight & was on watch till 2.45 am. I spent most of this time in No 6 Barricade. I was relieved by Tamplin. Stand to arms at 5.30 am, after which I walked to the galley to see breakfast cooked for the men. I came back via the Worcester Barricade which had been altered very much since we were in last. I also had time to start a letter before breakfast. After breakfast I had a rifle inspection at 9 .15 am. I heard that my platoon would have to move from the Barricade, but I got Mr A to allow us to remain, in order to save keep moving. Very nice & bright all day. After lunch I was on duty in the Barricade from 12.20 to 3.30 pm when Tamplin relieved me. Had dinner in Mr A's dug out. Turnedin after stand to armsat 7.0 pm.

tb Saturday. Nov: 6 1915

Went on duty at 2.45 am & relieved Sid. I was on till stand to arms at 5.30 am. Tamplin relieved me at 6.30 am. I had an hours good sleep before breakfast at 8.0 am. Had a rifle inspection at 9.30 am. Then wrote a letter. The remainder of morning I spent having a good wash & shave & general clean up. Had lunch at 12.0. Most of this afternoon I rested till 3.30 pm when I went on duty and relieved Sid. Very warm & bright again all day. Had a very quiet time. MrA, CPO Goodwin & I tried using a riflewith a hyposcope attached for the first time. It seemed to give very good results. Lieut Shaw Stuart came up the Barricade to see Mr Asquith about 5.0 pm. Stand to arms at 5.45 pm. I carried straight on with my watch till 9.15 pm when Tamplin relieved me.

th Sunday. Nov: 7 1915

Up at 5.30 am for stand to arms. Relieved Sid in the Barricadeat 6.30 am. Spent the time before breakfast writing. Very nice and fresh this morning. Had breakfast in the barricade, enjoyed it very much, porridge, followed by chips and bacon, & black currant jam. I was relieved at 9.30 am by Tamplin. Had a good wash this morning. Edmondson came up to see us. Had a good lunch, with a tin of tongue sent fromhome as an extra bon

1598. bouche. This afternoonI had a sleep. Stand to arms at 5.30 pm. All the latter part of this afternoon, the ships were bombarding the Turks. I turned in at 6.30 pm & then I relieved Sid in the barricade at 9.15 pm & was on duty till midnight when Tamplin relieved me.

th Monday. Nov: 8 1915

Stand to arms at 5.45 am. At 6.30 I turnedin again till breakfast time & had a good sleep. After breakfast I relieved Sid at 9.30 am in the Barricade. Spent the morning bombing a Turkish Artillery flag on the Barricade. Also used the hyposcope on a rifle with good results. Major Sketchley came round about dinner time. I had lunch in the barricade as Tamplin didn't relieve me till 1.35 over an hour late. Did nothing this afternoonbut attend to odd jobs. Edmondson came up again to see us. Turned in after stand to arms at 6.30 pm th Tuesday. Nov: 9 1915

Went on watch at midnight to relieve Sid in the Barricade. Had busy time enlarging the sentry post on either side in order to get a catapult in. Was relieved at 2.45 am by Tamplin. Then I turned in till stand to arms at 5.45 am. During stand to arms one of my platoon, a man named Blakely, was shot dead by a sniper, whilst he was on sentry duty in the left hand post in the Barricade. I had a good sleep beforebreakfast. This morningMr A gave me the job of making a plan of the trenches held by the Hood Battn, from Worcester Barricade to Union St. I also had to make arrangements for a funeral service for Blakely. After lunch I had a wash. At 4.0 pm I had to attend a service held over Blakely's grave by Rev Cairns the Presbyterian padre. Freyberg & Asquith were also there. AfterwardsI went on duty in the Barricade till 6.30 pm, so had to have my dinner there. Sid & I turned in about 7.0 pm. Tonight the Hawke Battn pushed forward the Southern Barricade. Came on to rain very heavily about 10.0 pm, & also thundered & lightened.

th Wednesday Nov: 10 1915

Went on watch at 2.45 am & relieved Sid. The rain had now ceased but the trenches were in a very bad state. We were kept busy in the barricade enlarging the two sentry posts so that each would hold two catapults. I was on duty till stand to arms at 5.45 am. Had a sleep as usual before breakfast. Held a rifle inspection at 9.30 am. Rained heavily again about 10.0 ambut only fora short time. Our monitors bombardedthe Turks trenches. Sid & I had a very scratch lunch about noon, consisting sardines in tomato, followed by pineapple & milk, with lime juice as a drink. Inspection of lines at 3.0 pm. At 3.30 the Howe Battn arrived. Sprange's Coy took over Sap 6 and Collins platoon relieved mine. I had a short chat with Sprange before we moved off. Made our way back to camp & arrived there in good time. Had a bath & then I had to attend the rum issue in the QM' s store. Had a good dinner and a fatcigar. Mr A was very merry.

th Thursday. Nov: 11 1915

Got up at 7.45 am. After breakfast we had an inspection of rifles, iron rations, respirator helmets etc at 10.15. The remainder of the morning I spent in improving the dug out.

1599. Lunch at 12.15. Had my hair cut this afternoon. Tidied up my belongings & the dug out generally. Mr A went to Athens for a few days. At 3.45 we paid the Company, each man got 5/- & NCO's 10/-. Sid & I each drew £5. I heard today fromthe C.O. that Gibson had died of his wounds, aboard the hospital ship. His name was down in yesterdays orders as having been promoted to Lieut. Aftertea I sat in our dug out & read the Weekly edition of the Daily Mirror that Vines had lent me. Dinner at 7.0 pm followedby a cigar. Turned in about 9.30 pm. Very moonlight tonight.

Friday Nov 12 1915 th Very heavy showers during the night, which gave us some trouble, as the rain came in our dug out. Showers most of the morning. After breakfast I spent most of the time repairing the roof of our dug out, with the wood from an egg box. Lunch at 12 noon. This afternoonLord Kitchener was seen landing at W beach. He stayed in the Peninsula about 2 hours. I retired to bed about 9.0 pm. Very cold tonight, so the men had a rum issue.

tb Saturday Nov: 13 1915

Got up at 8.0 am. Afterbreakfast I inspected the lines. Most of this morning I spent in censoring letters. Had a heavy shower about lunch time. This afternoon I took a few photographs & wrote some letters. After tea Sid & I went fora short stroll along the cliffs. Dinner at 7.0 pm. After dinner I cut up a roll of films & sent them home to Olive. Went to bed about 9.0 pm & wrote a letter.

Sunday Nov: 14 1915 th Am orderly officer today. Sentry called me at 6.15 am. Got up & had some hot cocoa & biscuits. Saw a working party offat 7.30. Inspected the guard at 8.0 am. Had a good breakfast, porridge, toast, bacon & sausage. Attended to numerous odd jobs after breakfast. After lunch I had to go across to DHQ to see the Paymaster. Saw some more working parties offbefore going. Aftertea I had to attend the issue of rum at QM's stores. Went to a Presbyterian service at 6.30 pm. Previously took the muster. Sub Lt Kenny of the Drake Battn had dinner with us to night.

Monday Nov: 15 1915 th Very heavy rain during the night. I got up at 7.45 am. After breakfast I made some improvements to my dug out. Had charge of a working party in camp from 11.0 to 1.0 pm. Vines went to Imbros this morning. This afternoon did nothing particularly. An attack took place at 3.0 pm on the Turkish trenches H[?] 11 B. We blew a mine & then our troops occupied the crater + 200 yds of trench. Sergt Mickle came up to see us to night. Veryheavy rainstorm about 8.30 pm, everyone got very wet.

1600. th Tuesday. Nov: 16 1915

Got up at 8.0 am. After breakfast I had a rifleinspection at 10.0 am& then set the men to work digging a drain for their dug out. After lunch, Tamplin, Edmondson & I went for a bathe, & had a fine time. Very nice afternoon. A Taube biplane flew over our camp. I spent most of the afternoon writing letters. General Paris came round aftertea & asked us if we got wet last night. Mickle came up again tonight & brought Sid a pair of slacks. To day was very clear & through the glassesI could see the tents on the shore at Anzac, & the battleships in the harbour.

th Wednesday Nov: 17 1915

Arose at 8.0 am. Mr Asquith arrived back fromAthens late last night. After breakfastwe had an inspection at 10.0 am. All dug outs had to be clear & all our gear stowed away by 11.0 am. Very windy all day. Had lunch at 12.0 noon. Lieut Sprange came in to see us during lunch. We moved offto the trenches about 2.0 pm. In parts the trench on the way was in a very bad state, in some places knee deep in water. The first two platoons of D Coy went into Worcester Flat, the remaining two including Sid & I went into Lancashire St. Sub Lt Vines was taken ill on the way up & had to go to hospital. I don't think we shall see him on the Peninsula again. As usual Sid & I shared a dug out. After a very cold

& scanty dinner it commenced to rain so we got into Mr A's dug out to dry & keep dry. The raingradually got worse & it began to thunder & lighten in a very alarming manner. Huge pools of water began to form & the trenches became terrible just like a duck pond. We managed to keep our head & body dry but our feet got very wet. The poor men were flooded out. About 9.0 pm the rain stopped & the moon came out, so we were able to see what a terrible state things were in. I have never seen anything like it. At 9.30 pm Mr A returned having been sheltering at Hd Qrs. There wasn't room in his dug out for 3 so we had to retire to our own dug out. Everything here was sopping wet including blankets & coats. But we lay down in our Burberys & eventually fell asleep.

th Thursday Nov: 18 1915

Spent a fairly miserable night as I couldn't sleep, my feet were so cold & wet. I got up once or twice & stamped round to try to get warm. At 7.0 am I got up & took a walk along our line. The men had got horribly wet. Sid & I took a walk in the open in rear of our trench. Had breakfast about 8.30 am. Afterwards I went to look at some guns which were firingon our left. There were twoof them, both naval guns, one being a 12 pounder & the other a 15 pounder. They were firing high explosive shells across at the vine yard area. The sun came out this morning, but there was still a fairly cold wind. I changed my wet socks & dried my boots in the sun. Had a very slack morning. After lunch I attended to a lot of odd jobs & also wrote letters. Had dinner about 5.0 pm. Stand to arms at 5.30 pm to 6.15 pm. Afterstand to arms I went down to the Brigade Dump with the foodparty under PO Dumper. We had to wait about fornearly an hour before the limbers came with the rations. 60 pairs of socks came up for D Coy. When all the ration party had returned we had a rum issue of half a tot per man. It got about 10.15 pm before I turned in, & was very cold.

1601. th Friday Nov: 19 1915

Stand to arms at 5.45 am after which I had a good sleep till breakfast time. Had a very good breakfast of porridge, sausage & bacon & raspberry jam. Rifle inspection at 9.15 am during which we got 3 shrapnel over us, a number of shots coming in the trench. Did a few jobs forMr A beforelunch. After lunch I had a good wash etc. Very nice all day but rather a rainy look about the sky late in the afternoon. Some of our monitors were doing a lot of firing this morning. Rather heavy artillery duels during the afternoon. After dinner we stood to arms at 5.30 pm. At 6.30 pm I went down to the Brigade Dump with the working party to bring up foodetc. We both turnedin about 7.30 pm.

th Saturday Nov: 20 1915

Stand to arms at 6.0 am. At 6.30 am we had hot cocoa & biscuits & then turned in again till breakfast time. Had chips & bacon for breakfast, & porridge of course. After breakfast we had a rifle inspection, & then I took a walk up to the firing line & saw Edmondson. Got back in time forlunch. Afterwards we had to move from Lancashire St into Essex Knoll which is the support line. We had C Coy on our right & the London Regt on our left. Sid & I shared a nice little dugout. Had dinner at 5.0 pm, Asquith, Freyberg, Sid & myself. Stand to arms at 5.30 pm. I went on watch at 10.0 pm for 4 hrs. Sid took a watch in the \Vorcester Barricade. Very cold indeed tonight & like snow. Got a huge mail this afternoonwhich bucked me up.

st Sunday Nov: 21 1915

At 2.0 am I was relieved by Chapman, & then I turnedin again till stand to arms at 6.0 am. At 6.45 am I returnedto our dug out & slept till breakfast time at 8.15 am. After breakfast I had a rifle inspection & read the men a circular on care of arms in the trenches. I was on watch this morning from 10.0 am to 2.0 pm. Had a good lunch at 12.15. Very cold this morning, & I think we shall have snow before long. Sid went on duty in the Worcester Barricade at 1.0 pm. This afternoon Knaggs & I worked hard on the dug out & made roof of sand bags, as we got 4 big pieces of timber. Came on to rain about 4.15 pm. At 4.30 pm the Turks began a heavy bombardment of the G 12 trenches on our right. Especially the part capturedby us last Monday.

Our artillery replied very effectively & the air was thick with shrapnel. About 5.0 pm while we were having dinner, the Turks attacked the G 12 held by the 52nd Division. Through the glasses I could see the Turks come out & try to cut their own wire before they advanced. However their attack was a complete failure as they did not get past their own wire. Heavy rifle firecontinued for a long time . We stood to armstill 6.15 pm. Sid & I turned in but sat talking & reading till about 8.0 pm. At 10.0 pm I went on duty in the Worcester Barricade & relieved Fullerton. The first part of my watch it was raining, a wet drizzly rain. Towards the end about 1.0 pm it becamevery cold.

1602. nd Monday Nov: 22 1915

Edmondson relieved me in the Worcester at 1.30 am, so I then returned to my dug out & slept till stand to arms at 5.50 am, Sid was on duty in the supports from 2.0 am to 6.0 am. At 6.45 am there was an issue of rum to the men. At 7.0 am I went on duty in the Barricade again & relieved Fullerton. Very cold morning. Had breakfast at 9.0 am which was also very cold. Had a talk with an RFA officer afterwards & he told me the Drakes lost only one man last night & the Turks 6 men. The losses of the 52nd were also very small. About 9.30 am we had a bombing match with the Turks. They sent us 3 bombs which did no damage & we sent them 18. At 10.0 am I was relieved by Edmondson. Had lunch at 12.0 with Sid & Mr Asquith. Had toothache rather badly this afternoon so stayed in my dug out till 4.0 pm when I went on duty again in the Worcester Barricade. Fine this afternoon but very co Id & blowy. Relieved Fullerton in the Barricade. Discovered a Turkish Machine gun emplacement to the right of our Barricade. However by a bit of good shooting the second bomb fromour catapult left it a total wreck. Had dinner at 4,30 pm. Stand to arms at 5.15 pm. My toothache was very bad so about 6.0 pm I retired to my dug out & turned in. I did not take a watch tonight.

rd Tuesday. Nov: 23 1915

Woke up at 8.15 amjust as breakfast arrived. My toothache is much better this morning. Mr Asquith said I had better go down to camp & see the dentist. The sky is much brighter today but it is very cold still. Stayed in my dug out all morning. Lunch at 12.0 noon. Mr A, Sid & I lunched together & had a good feed. Packed my gear up after lunch & at 2.0 pm I started back forCamp. I came back through the Gully Ravine & then along the beach. Had a most interesting walk. The road through the Gully was very bad in places being knee deep in mud. The Turks shelled the Ravine as I came through. Got to camp about 3.15 pm. Had tea & dinner with Lt Hedderwick (Q Master). Rather heavy rifle fire up in the trenches about 8.0 pm. I turned in about 9.0 pm

th Wednesday. Nov: 24 1915

Got up about 8.30 am. Had breakfast with Hedderwick. Afterwards I borrowed the postman's bike & set offto see the dentist. I had to go to the 2nd Field Ambulance at Taylors post first & get a chit from the surgeon there (Surgeon Maine). then I went past the French quarters & round by Seddul Bahr to the clearing station. I had never seen Seddul Bahr from near to before & was struck by the size of it. The French have made a regular village of tents there where the old village used to be. I found the dentist (an officer) very busy & made an appointment with him for 2.30 pm tomorrow. I went next to the Ordnance Stores to try to get an officer's cap, but they hadn't any in. So I bought a Tommys soft cap, also two silk ties (lOd each). Then I went to the RND canteen, but the cupboard was bare & I couldn't buy a single thing. Got back to camp at 12.30 & had lunch (bully & pickles) with Egerton, Hedderwick & Hill (Machine Gun Officer). After lunch I opened my parcels. Sid & the rest got back from the trenches about 4.0 pm. I saw the rum issue at 5.45 pm. Had dinner at 6.0 pm. Turned in at 8.0 pm

1603. th Thursday Nov: 26 1915 Men got winter clothing

Got up at 8.15 am. Very cold all day. My platoon acted as camp guard to day. After lunch I had to start offfor the dentists & arrived there about 2.30 pm. After waiting a short time he attended to me & filled my tooth. On my way back to the camp I called at the RND canteen & boughtsome cigarettes & cream. Turnedin soon after dinner about 8.30 pm

th Friday Nov:26 1915

Got up at 7.30 am & had breakfast at 8.0 am. At 8.45 we started offfor the bomb school & got there just before 9.0 am. There were 12 officers including Sid & myself. We did a lot of elementary work & some bomb throwing. Dismissed at 12.0 & went to camp for lunch. Had to be back at bomb school by 1.30 pm. Had a lecture by a Sergt for the first hour, on bombs & grenades, and then a lecture on the catapult, by Lt Col Mullins, the CO of the bomb school. Came on to rain heavily about 3 .15 so we were dismissed. Had tea about 4.0 pm, afterwhich I wrote letters. Very heavy thunderstorm to-night & heavy rain. Turned in shortly after dinner about 9.0 pm. Some very vivid lightening during the storm.

th Saturday. Nov: 27 1915

Got up about 7.45 am. Had breakfast & then started for the bomb school about 8.40 am. Mullins gave us lecture for the first hour on trench fighting, then we did some trench fighting, using small sand bags with fuses attached , instead of bombs. For the last hour we were instructed in use of catapult. Dismissed for lunch at 12.0. After lunch we commenced work(?) again at the bomb school at 1.30 pm. First of all we had a lecture on the use of the "garland" and 3.7 trench howitzer. Then we did a little trench fighting & lastly had a lecture from Mullins on the supply of bombs. We dismissed at 3.30 pm. Had tea at 4.30 pm. Rained heavily again this afternoon. After tea I wrote a letter. Dinner at 7.0 pm, another heavy shower afterwards.

th Sunday. Nov: 28 1915

Got up at 7.30 am. A regular blizzard blowing outside & the ground was white with snow. Breakfast was late so we had to go without & make our way to the bomb school. A bitterly cold wind was blowing. The first part of the morning we did nothing but talk. Then the Col came in & had us all tying knots & lashing ropes. After lunch we went back to the grenade school at 1.30 pm. All this afternoon we had a lecture on different grenades & then we made some experiments with a flare. Had tea at 4.0 pm. After which we wrote letters. Dinner at 7.0 pm. No fresh meat now so we are reduced to bully stew. Very cold wind blowing to night

1604. tb Monday Nov: 29 1915

Very cold during the night. Got up at 7.30 am & had breakfast at 8.15 am. Then we had to make our way to the bombing ground at Carlo. Got there about 9.0 am & had to hang about in the cold fornearly half an hour. Then we did some bomb throwing with live bombs. I had to throw 4 double cylinder bombs & 1 cricket ball bomb. Then we had to fire a garland gun. Each officertaking the 3 different positions at the gun. We dismissed about 11.45 am & went back to bivouac. After lunch we had to be back at the bomb school at 1.30 pm & spent the time till 3 .30 pm in discussing general topics. At 3.15 Sid & I went down to W beach to the RND canteen & bought some candles & chocolate. The tea meal has now been knockedoff so we wrote & censored letters till 6.0 pm.

tb Tuesday Nov: 30 1915

Got up at 7.45 am. Beautifulmorning, cold but bright. Had breakfast at 8.30 am. At 9.0 am we set out for the bomb ground at Carlos where we had to be at 9.15 am. Wasted about 3/4 of an hour as usual & then spent the rest of the morning trench fighting. Small sand bags being used in place of bombs. We got some real sport when the Turks began shelling us. Dismissed at 11.30 am & got back to rest camp about 11.45 am. About noon we could see HMS Agamemnon steaming past Imbros. Had lunch at 1.0 pm. the Agamemnon fireda number of shots over at Anzac. Had to be back at the bomb school by 1.30 pm. Had an examination this afternoon to finish up the course. It took place in 3 parts (1) under Lt Humphries for catapult work (2) under Sec Lt Hepburn for bombs & grenades (3) under Col Mullins for trench fighting etc. We were dismissed about 2.30. Very nice this afternoon, the wind has dropped & it isn't as cold as it was. I took some photos this afternoon& then wrote some letters. Had a little dinner & then about 7.0 pm I walked to the Nelson lines & had dinner with Truscott & Kenny, in the latter's dug out. Had a very good time & left forour lines about 9.45 pm. On the way back I fell down a drain & besides bruising my knee I tore my pants.

1605. Study of these officersservice records is very useful, as it highlights the great change in officers inflictedon the Hood Battalion since the Gallipoli landings. It also highlights that promotion from the ranks was becoming a common practice.

Service Records :-

Brandt. AlfredErnest :- Next of kin:- Wife c/o A.H.Brandt & Co. 39, Lime Street,London. EC. Promoted fromthe ranks. Formerly Lon Z/590. R.N.V.R. Temp Sub Lieutenant 10/03/1915 at Crystal Palace Depot. There to 05/05/1915. BlandfordCamp 06/05/1915. M.E.F. HoodBn. Invalided from Mudros 03/01/1916. Admitted Hasler Hospital 09/01/1916. BlandfordCamp fromM.E.F. invalided. Commission terminated17 /05/1916 as physically unfit.

Edmondson. Cyril Arthur :- Next of kin:- FatherJames & Isabel Edmondson of Woodbury Lake, Finsbury Park, London N. Promoted from the ranks. Formerly Lon. Z/226. R.N.V.R. Temp Sub Lieutenant28/12/1915 at Crystal Palace. Blandfordfrom 24/04/1915 to 28/06/1915. M.E.F. Hood Bn. 29/06/1915. Slightly wounded 19/08/1915. Temp Lieutenant 10/04/1916. B.E.F. France 22/05/1916. Disembarked Marseilles 22/05/1916. Mentioned in Despatches (Lon Gaz 13/07/l916. Page 6953) Killed in Action 13/11/1916. France. BuriedAncre British Cemetery, Beaumont-Hamel, grave IV.A.26. Ancre British Cemetery is about 2 kilometres south ofthe village, on the D50 between Albert and Achiet le Grand

Egerton-le-Clerk. William Markham. D.S.O. Temp Sub Lieutenant 01/10/1914 at Crystal Palace. Blandford15/01/15. HoodBn. M.E.F. 01/03/1915 Wounded Dardanellcs. 09/05/1915 Mentioned inDespatch M.E.F. ofG.O.C in C. 11/12/1915 (Supp Lon Gazette 01/11/1016. Page 10617. Appointed Adjuntant Hood Bn. 18/ 12/ 1915. Disembarked Marseilles 22/05/1916. Appointed Companion D.S.O. for services at Gallipoli. (Supp Lon Gazette 06/09/1916. Page 8767) B.E.F. France 22/05/1916. Wounded 21/01/1917. Severe wound right thigh. 11/02/1917 to England 4th London GeneralHospital, Denmark Hill. 15/02/1917. Blandford. 21/05/1917 B.E.F. Hood Bn. Mentioned in DespatchofC ofC. B.E.F. 08/11/1918. (6th Supp Lon Gazette 20/12 1918. Demobilized 10/01/1919.

1606. Galloway. David. Born13 t1t May 1887 of 77, Albert Street,Dundee. Next of Kin Father Archibald Galloway. Promoted fromthe ranks, formerly Clyde Z/077. R.N.V.R. Temp Sub Lieutenant lOth March 1915 at Crystal Palace. 18/06/1915 at Blandford. 19/96/1915 With M.E.F. to Gallipoli, Nelson Bn. 08/09/1915 Appointed Adjutant Nelson Bn. 03/12/1915 Appointed Temp Lieutenant (Acting). 08/04/1916 Embarked onSS Wahire on leave to England. 24/05/1916 Joined B.E.F. France. 30/05/1916 Temp Lieutenant Commander. Mentioned in Despatches(Supp Lon. Gazette 13/07/1916. Page 6953.) Wounded with slightgun shot wound to rightarm. 13/1 1/1916. To England 16/11/1916 to 4th London General Hospital on 17/11/16. Awarded Croix de Gurre- Supp London Gazette 01/05/1917. Page 4157) FrenchDecoration. Awarded Hurt Certificatefor wounds on 13/11/1916. 28/02/1917 At BlandfordCamp with 4t1t Res Battalion. 16/01/1918. At BlandfordCamp with 2ru1 Res Battalion. Sent on SeniorOfficer's Instruction Course at Aldershoton 31/03/1918. B.E.F. France 05/04/1918. 2nd in Command ofBn. 16/04/1918. Wounded with gunshot wound - Dangerously ill at No 2 Gen Hospital Havre. To England 07/09/1918 to Northumberland War Hospital, Gosforth08/09/1918. Severely wounded. Unfitfor GeneralService for3 months. 09/01/1919 At AldershotReg Depot. 24/03/1919 Medical Board at Alnwick was Unit for General Service for3 months. 27/04/1919 Demobilised at Kimoss. Awarded Gratuity of£145 .12.0 forinjuries sustained.

Hall. Robert John. Born26/11/1893. Next of Kin:- Mother,Mrs Rutherfordof Cyprus, Torquay, Devon. Promoted fromthe ranks, formerlyLon 8/3457. R.N.V.R. Temp Sub Lieutenant31/05/1915 at Crystal Palace. Blandford 16/07/1915. M.E.F. Hood Bo.21/09/1915. Embarked Mudros 16/05/1916. Disembarked Marseilles 22/05/1916. Attached 2nd Brigade H.Q. B.E.F. 02/07/1916. Severely wounded 13/11/1916. Endsleigh Palace Hospital. 30/11/1916. Gun Shot Wound in thigh. 30/11/1916 To England. 31/11/1916 3rd Res Battalion at Blandford. Reported to School of InstructionR/Engineers, Chatham. 08/04/1917. Terminated in RN.D. 16/07/1917 to Army. 1914 StarRibbon to O.C. R Engineers 6th Div B.E.F. 28/03/1918.

1607. Hedderwick. Dalziel Born06/08/1887. Age on Commission 27 years and two months. Next of Kin :- Father , Mr Maxwell Hedderwick of Auchendarrach, Tarbot, LochLomond, Scotland. 07/10/1914. Temp Sub Lieutenantat Crystal Palace. 20/02/1915 CollingwoodBn. 29/04/1915 Lieutenant R.N.V.R. 21/09/1915 M.E.F. HoodBn. Detached to V Corps 08/10/1916. B.E.F. To be seconded forduty as officerin charge of pay, messing. FifthArmy InfantrySchool. 22/09/1917. 29/07/1918. Returnedto normal duty. 14 days leave to England 10/01/1919 extended to 14/02/1919. Demoblized at Crystal Palace 15/04/1919.

Note :- He was the brother of Hugh CockburnHedderwick, Hood Bn. who's photographs appear in the R.N.D.

Hill. Frederick Charles M.C. Next of Kin:- Father, WilliamGidfrey Hill ofMarldown, Nr. Paignton,Devon. Promoted fromthe ranks DEV/193503 R.N. 13/09/1915 Temporary Sub Lieutenant in Hood Bn. M.E.F. Embarked Mudros 16/05/1916. Disembarked Marseilles 22/05/1916. Mentioned in Dispatches:- London Gazette 13/07/1916. Page 6953. Awarded MilitaryCross. In connectionwith operations northof the Ancre. nd Awarded M.C. "For gallentryand devotion to duty - 2 Supp London Gazette 10/01/1917. Page 459. Lewis Gun Course l2th to 27t1• December 1916. Promoted Lieutenant. Medical Board at Cambridge Hospital 15/04/1918. Unfit due to a gun shot wound, for3 months. Medical Board at Connaught Hospital, Aldershot on 15/07/1918. Unfit for one month. Medical Board at Connaught Hospital, Aldershot on 13/09/1918. Fit for General Service. 4 days Anti Gas Course 20/09/1918. Unfitto becomean instructor. B.E.F. HoodBn. 26/10/1918. Ends withR.N.D. 08/06/1919 to "Excellent."

Hope. William Edward. Next ofKin:- Mother, MrsE Hope ofEndsleigh, 8, Manor Road, Westcliff-on-Sea,Essex. Promoted from the ranks, formally Z/572.R.N. V.R 10/03/1915. Temporary Sub Lieutenant at Crystal Palace. M.F.F. Drake Bn. (Note:- This must be the officermentioned are there is no others with this name in the officer'srecord books.) 01/06/1916- Gallipoli, Mudros & Imbros. 07/06/1916 Disembarked Marseilles. 04/11/1916. Invalided to England. 05/12/1916. BlandfordCamp with"A" Reserve Battalion. Attended rifle course on Hayling Island. 26/03/1917. Terminated in R.N.D. 28/07/1917 to "Excellent".

1608. Morrison. James William. Born26/1 1/1885. Age on Commission 29 years and 4 months. Next of Kin:- Father,James Morrison of 30, Granby Road, Edinburgh. 01/04/1915. Temp Sub Lieutenant at Crystal Palace. 18/07/1915. Hood Bn. 18/07/1915. 12/09/1915 Wounded Dardanelles at duty. 10/12/1915 Acting Lieutenant. 16/05/1916 Embarked Mudros. 22/05/1916 DisembarkedMarseilles. B.E.F. 30/05/1916. Temp Lieutenant. Mentioned in Despatchfrom G.H.Q., B.E.F. 09/04/1917. (3rd Supp London Gazette 15/05/1917. Page 4744.) Killed in Action 23/04/1917. France. Arras Memorial, in Faubourg-d' Amiens Cemetery, Bay 1. In Boulevard du Generalde Gaulle in the westernpart of Arras. The Cemeteryis near theCitadel, approximately 2 kilometres de west of the railway station.

Sprange. Edmund Augustine. M.C. Next of Kin:- Wife, Mrs Sprange do O.L. ThonpsonEsq of 47, Lincoln Inn Fields, London. W.C. 06/11/1914 Temp Sub Lieutenant at Crystal Palace. 15/06/1915. BlandfordCamp with 151 Res Battalion. 18/07/1915. M.E.F. Howe Bn. (This must be the officermentioned as there are no others with his name listed in the Officer'sRecord Books.) 17/02/1915. Promoted Temp Lieutenant. 17 /10/ 1915 To Hospital on Gallipoli. 22/12/1915. To England with Jaundice. 31/12/ 1915 Admitted to Hasler Hospital. Pysexial. 21/02/1916 Discharged Paratyphoid -A. 03/04/1916 Admitted Hasler Hospital. Discharged06/04/1916. 05/05/1916 Admitted Hasler Hospital. Discharged 09/05/1916. Fit forduty. 07/07/1916. Howe Bo. B.E.F. Awarded MilitaryCross :- "For Conspicous gallantry anddevotion to duty. He led his company most gallantly in the assault subsequentlyconsolidating the captured position and establishing a line of posts beyond thefinal objective. He has previously done finework." Supp London Gazette. 17/04/1917. Page 3686. 31/10/1917. To England for special course. 02/10/1918 Tooting Grove Hospital. To duty 12/01/1918. 05/03/1918 to 09/05/1918. Qualifiedas Instructorrevolver course at Aldershot. 25/07/1918. B.E.F. Anson Bn. 25/08/1918 Wounded to 3rd Cas Clearing Station. (Officer's Hospital.) Gun Shot Wound, penetrating. 26/08/1918. Dangerouslyill. 26/08/1916. Died of Wound in action, France.

1609. Tamplin. Gerald Hornly. Born 30/04/1888. Next of Kin:- Mrs D. Tamplin of 5, Schubert Road, Putney, London. S.W. Temp Sub Lieutenant 15/05/1915 at Crystal Palace. M.E.F. Hood Bn. EmbarkedMudros 16/05/1916. Disembarked Marseilles. B.E.F. 22/05/ 1916. Performedduties ofCamp Commandant 63'd (RN.) Division. 30/05/ 1916. Lieutenant. 23/04/1917. Killed in Action. Buried at Point-u-jour Military Cemetery, Athies. Grave III. G.14. Athies is a village in the Department of the Pas-de-Calais, approximately 4 kilometres east of Arras, in the Scarpe valley. The Cemetery is situated on the rightof the road fromSt. Laurent-Blangy to Douai, the N50.

Vines. James Cooper. Born19/04/1890. Next of Kin:- Mother, Mrs F.L. Vines ofHaxell's Hotel, 375, Strand, London. W.C. Promoted fromthe ranks formally O.S. London Z/1589. 13/07/1915. Temp Sub Lieutenant at Crystal Palace. 21/09/1915. M.E.F. Hood Bn. Appointed Railway Transport Officer at Alexandria 15/12/1915. Invalided to England 28/01/1916. (Tuberculosis oflungs.) Unfit for military duty. Admitted Hasler Hospital 09/02/1916. Discharged as invalid 18/02/1916. Terminated R.N.D. as medically unfit.

Wickham. Clyde. Born 08/05/1884. Next of Kin:- Eugiene Wickham of 34, CharlevilleRoad, West Kensington, London. Temp Lieutenant 24/04/1915 at Blandford. M.E.F. 20/08/1915. Nelson Bn. (This must be the officermentioned as there are no others with his name listed in the Officer'sRecord Books.) 04/11/1915. Invalided to England. Admitted to Hasler Hospital 11/11/1915 with Jaundice. 12/11/1915. Discharged. 29/12/1915. At Blandford sick. Resurveyed at admission 29/12/15, 29/01/1916, 29/02/16. Still unfit. Unfit admission to Chatham Hospital 11/03/1916. Terminated withRN.D. 12/04/16. Unfit for service.

Note:- Officers service records were taken fromthe books 'Record of Officer's Service' ROS 182. Vol 1 & 2. Admiralty Library, Great Scotland Yard, London.

Details of burials fromthe Commonwealth War Graves Commission data base.

1610. Charles Leslie Swales in naval square rig, Autumn 1914 at the age of20 shortly after enlisting in the R.N.D.

Middle:- His R.N.D. Identity Disc.

Below:- A diary extract of the platoon personnel list

1611. R.N.D. PERSONALITY. CHARLES LESLIE SWALES, L/Z344, ABLE SEAMAN RNVR - SERVICE AT GALLIPOLI WITH NELSON BATTALION.

AND AN ANALYSIS OF THE BATTLE EXPERIENCEOF HIS PLATOON.

By his son, Captain RC Swales, Royal Navy

My father, Charles Leonard Swales, a turnerand fitterby trade, enlisted in the London Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (Service Number L/Z344) at No.7 Company Headquarters in Commercial Road, Lambeth three months after his 2oth birthday on lih September 1914. He served in Nelson Battalion of the Royal Naval Division as an Ordinary Seaman from22 nd October 1914, and on advancement to Able Seaman on 1s t March 1915, until 23rd July 1915 when he was invalided fromthe Service. He was only briefly in action on the Anzac frontat Gallipoli from29th April until 3rd May 1915 when he was injured and evacuated, firstto Alexandria and then to England. He was a lucky survivor - more than a third of his Platoon were killed on the peninsular.

Among my fathers fewpapers from1914/15 was a very brief and intermittent diary record which, forunknown reasons, was kept in a pocket diary forthe year 1912. The entries, which only cover the finaldays at Blandford, the passage to the Mediterranean and his short time at Anzac are as follows:

Wed 24th February Allotments made." [This was the day before King George V's Inspection of the RND]

Sun 28th February LeftBlandford Camp midnight.

Mon 1 st March Sailed fromAvonmouth Dock 8pm on SS FRANCONIA.

Thu 4th March Passed Gibraltar in the night.

Sun 7th March Laid in bay offMalta fornight

Mon gth March Went into Valetta Harbour, Malta.

Tue 9th March Left Harbour 5pm. Concert same evening on ship. Two days sports in the Mediterranean.

Fri 12th March Anchored in Bay of Lemnos early in morning. Received Princess Mary's gift. 1612. BlandfordCamp. Left :- Lieutenant Colonel Edmund George Eveleigh the Commanding Officer of Nelson Battalion, killed on Wednesday, 14th July 1915. Buried in Skew Bridge Cemetery, Helles, grave II. E. 13. On his right, the Rev. Robert Primrose the battalion Padre. Father of Lieutenant Robert Clifford Primrose, who was wounded on 3rd May 1915.

Photographs from the J. Nicol photographs the Liddle Collection, Brotherton Library, Leeds University.

Service Record Rev Robert Primrose :- Hon Chaplain R.N.V.R. Presbyterian. September1914 at Bettshanger, Clyde Division. Served at Antwerp October 1914. BlandfordCamp 18/11/1914 and sailed with Nelson Bn. March 1915. Sent Home as a invalid from Gallipoli 30/05/1915 with Neurasthenia. Blandford Camp 22/03/1916. Went on a recruiting tour through Scotland with Lord Graham. Awarded 1914 Star/Ribbon. From the record books R.N.D. 'Officer'sService Record' ROS 183, Vol 2. Admiralty Library, GreatScotland Yard.

Note :- The Chaplain had another son in the Royal Naval Division. Sub Lieutenant Walter Wingate Primrose, who terminated in the R.N.V.R. 30/05/1915 to R.M. Divisional Train.

1613. Wed 24th March Left Lemnos 11.30pm.

Fri 26th March Landed at Port Said and pitched tents.

Tue 13th April Struck tents and embarked on board SS MINNETONKA

Wed 14 April Left Port Said 1 Oam on MINNETONKA. "

Fri 16 April Arrived Skyros Island 6am. All warships called out. MANITOU torpedoed. 51 RND drowned. Sat 17th April Landed and made attack uphill

Sun 18th April Church service aboard. Landed in afternoon and marched through valley

Fri 23rd April Swim over ship's side in Bay of Skyros.

Sat 24th April Sailed from Skyros. CANOPUS, DARTMOUTH, KENNET, JED as escorts for convoy.

Sun 25th April Arrived Gulf of Saros 4am.

Mon 26th April Left upper end of Gulf of Saros 8pm

Tue 27th April Arrived at Said el Bar morning 4am. Heavy gunfire on Turk trenches from ships.

th Thu 29 April Landed 8pm [at Anzac Cove]. Under shrapnel fire almost immediately.

Fri 30th April Dug ourselves in. Called out during night. Heavy battle on.

Sat 1st May Shiftedour positions. Battalion splits up in two parts.

°d Sun 2 May 1st Watch. Reinforce NZ and Aust on ridge. Digging all night.

Mon 3rd May Wounded at sunrise at B Comp. Was led out. Taken aboard Red Cross boat.

This is the last diary entry. With a badly smashed left thigh ( definitely not a walking wound), he was very lucky to get down from the heights above Monash Valley, to be put into the Hospital Ship GASCON on the same day and taken to Alexandria. His Army Form B.103 (Casualty Form - Active Service) incorrectly ( or I would not be writing this article!) reports "Gun Shot Wound Testicles (severe)" subsequently changed to "G.S. W thigh (severe)" He was admitted to 17th General Hospital at Victoria College four days later and was able to send a postcard of the Arabian Bazaar to his mother in England on gth May in which he regrets that "It was just my misfortune to be knocked out so early in the game. " My grandfather was notified by the RND Record Office in London of his son's woundingin a letter dated 10 May 1h

1614. Nelson Battalion landing at Skyros. H.M.S. Doris in the background. From the J. Nicol photographs, the Liddle Collection, Leeds University.

1915. Afterten days in hospital in Alexandria Charles was embarked in the Hospital 111 Ship NEV ASA on 1 ? May and invalided to England. He was admitted to the RN Hospital Haslar on 28111 May and his fatherwas so informedby letter dated 5111 June. He was invalided fromthe Service two months later, receiving the traditional Royal Navy "Certificatefor Wounds and Hurts" ("He was sober at the time") and a Compensation Certificate. Apart fromhis good fortune to survive the early, desperate fightingat Anzacand to be speedily evacuated from Gallipoli when wounded, I imagined that his experience was probably fairly typical, even though he lived the rest of his life (to 1962) with a left leg three inches shorter thanthe right

However, my father also included in the diary a list of some 50 names (usually just surnames; rarely with an initial, rank or rating) of those in his Platoon (Sections 13 - 16). The list was written twice, originally in pencil and, later, in ink. Some of the names were annotated with symbols - x, o, ./ and s. I was intrigued to know more of these companions of my father and to try to decipher the annotationsalongside their names. After researching the RND records at the Fleet Air Arm Museum (I gratefully acknowledge their kind help) I believe that I have satisfactorilyidentified 45 of the 50 names in my father's diary. For the most part (there are some discrepancies) these records show that his x annotation indicates 'killed in action' or 'died of wounds', o means 'missing in action', ./ means injured (in some cases ././ indicating injured twice) and s means 'sick'. 1615. EXTRACTED FROM DIARY OF ABLE SEAMAN C.L. SWALES RNVR

NELSON BATTALION RND PERSONNEL LIST

PENCIL - RECORD - INK

Sub Lieut Cooke x Sub Lieut Cooke x

PENCIL - RECORD - INK PENCIL - RECORD - INK

13 Section 15 Section

D Wright x D Wright lC Barry Barry LS Fleming x PO Fleming lC Musgrave s J Musgrave s Bligh ../ Bligh ../ Knox x Knox lC Holborn HolbornPO ../ Stewart ../ Stewart ../ Horniman ../ Horniman../ Hazel ../ Hazel ../ Lowry Lowry Gosso Goss o Mattinson ../ Mattinson ../ Jim Martin o Jim Martino Wheatley ../ Wheatley ../ Green o P Green o Warner../x Warner ../x Roberts x Roberts x Hewson o Hewson o Geden Geden Poston o C Poston o Barclay s Barclay s Patland Patland Sullivan x C Sullivan LS x Burden ../ Burden ../ Robson s Robson s lC Short (in ink) x WC Short x

14 Section 16 Section

Rooke x Rooke LS x Mann ../ Mann ../ (pencil change to../) Skipp ../ T Skipp ../ Wilson ../ B Wilson ../ Jack Martin ../ J Martin ../ Bell ../ A Bell ../ Taylor ../ Taylor ../ Francis s Francis s Scrowther lC Scrowther x Nichols Nichol s Auld lC G Auld x Swales ../ Swales ../ Pewtress Pewtress J Harrison ../ ../ J Harrison ../ ../ Turners Turners (pencil change to../X) Foster ../ Foster ../ W Harrison ../ W Harrison ../ Sinclair o Sinclair o Hartshorn Hartshorn../ Ware lC Ware lC (pencil change tos) Wilden s Wilden s Craig ../ Craig ../ ../ Laverick s Laverick s

1616. Above:- Nelson Battalion's Field Day on the Island of Skyros, in Artillery Formation.

Below:- Part of Nelson Battalion resting, during field day on Skyros. From the J. Nicol photographs, Liddle Collection, Leeds University. 1617. The summarized records of the 45 personnel that I have managed to identify (1 officer and 44 ratings) are below, followed by a brief statistical analysis of the fate of this platoon of Nelson Battalion of the RND. Their experience is probably fairlytypical of others at Gallipoli - they probably fared better than some battalions. The fascination of the list of names is the ability to track what happened to one small group of people who trained together and then fought together in the horrors of that campaign and, for some, subsequently with the 63rd (RN) Division in France.

I amnot certain of my father's Company and Platoon number as he only recorded Section Numbers but one of those killed appears in the "Cross of Sacrifice, Volume IV" as "A Coy Nelson Bn". However, my father'sdiary entry for 3rd May records that he was "wounded at B Comp".

The Platoon Sub Lieutenant was commissioned fromthe RNVR London Division Companies and twelve ratings were also fromLondon Division. Tyne Division was represented by seven ratings and Sussex Division by two. The largest contingent was from Scotland with three ratings fromthe RNVR Clyde Division Companies and fourteen ratings from Clyde Division. Into this platoon of Nelson Battalion of the 2°d Naval Brigade also came six soldiers fromKitchener's Army (ex-Durham Light Infantryand Northumberland Fusiliers), mostly Durhamminers. Eleven of the platoon had served at Antwerp and were awarded the 1914 Star: the Platoon Sub Lieutenant (then a Leading Seaman in Benbow Battalion), two Petty Officers and one Leading Seaman of the Clyde Division Companies, all six of the 'KX' Able Seamen ex-Kitchener's Army and one of the London Division Able Seamen.

Nelson Battalion, Royal Naval Division 'A' Company(?)

Platoon Officer:

Cooke, GuyProudfoot Temporary Sub Lieutenant RNVR

Born 27th February 1894, he worked as a solicitor's clerk to his father Mr DF Cooke. He enlisted in the RNVR London Division (Ll/2879) on 20th February 1913. As a Leading Seaman in Benbow Battalion at Antwerp he was one of the only fortyor so of that battalion who were not either internedafter crossing the Dutch border or captured by the Germans. He was awarded 1914 Star (for Antwerp), which was sent to his fatheron 19th June 1919. He was discharged as arating on 7th January 1915 and obtained an RNVR commission. Killedin action at Anzac on 3rd May 1915. Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

13 Section:

CZ/20 Wright, Duncan AB RNVR doh: 6 May 1887 Boxmaker doe: 5 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac but was subsequently killedin action on Relles fronton 16th June 1915 (aged 28). Helles Memorial, Gallipoli

C4/1545 Fleming, Evan PO RNVR doh: 21 Feb 1884 Draughtsman& engineer doe: 18 Mar 1909 Awarded 1914 Star (forAntwerp) - sent to widow, Mrs HW Fleming, 17th May 1920. He was recorded missing in action at Anzac 3rd May 1915 andthen recorded killedin action (aged 31) following Court ofEnquiry 12th August 1915. Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

1618. LZ/273 Bligh, Ernest Gordon L/Sea RNVR dob: 5 Feb 1886 Mantle Manufacturer doe: 9 Sep 1914 Awarded 1914 Star (for Antwerp) 3011i December 1940. He survivedAnzac. To hospital with jaundice 291h May 1915. He was wounded on the Relles fronton/about 13m July 1915 - GSW right knee. Invalided to England 18 August 1915 in HS ASTURIAS. Leading Seaman 8tb September 1916. tb Discharged RND 24 January1h 1917 to Commission in 3rd Leicester Regiment. Thereis no record of his later death in WWI.

Cl/1942 Holborn, John Barclay Act. L/Sea RNVR dob: 6 Jun 1893 PO RNVR at Gallipoli doe: 14 Aug 1911 Apprentice Engineer Awarded 1914 Star(for Antwerp) 30th January 1919 and clasp issued 23rd June 1920. He survived Anzac. To hospital, Mudros ("not yet diagnosed") 241h November 1915. Invalided to England from Mudros in AQUITANIA 26 Dec 1915 with paratyphoid.

KX/46 Horniman, Joseph AB RNVR dob: not recorded Miner, Newcastle doe: 9 Sep 1914 Awarded 1914 Star (for Antwerp) 13t1i February 1919. He survived Anzac but was subsequently wounded on the Belles fronton 13th July 1915 - GSW leftthigh. Invalided to England in HS DEMOSTHENES24 1h August 1915, he was discharged unserviceable on 16tb March 1916.

LZ/175 Lowry, Newton AB RNVR dob: 27 Dec1887 Farmer, Hungerford doe: 7 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. Sentonl 3th May 1915 to 15th GeneralHospital, Alexandria, in HMT LUTZOW - defective sight - rejoining his unit 16th June 1915. Leading Seaman 13m August 1915. October 1916 - March 1918 servingin Reserve Battalions at Blandford. 28tb March 1918 serving in Hawke Battalion in France. 5tb July 1918 to UK. Demobilized 21st February 1919.

Mattinson -Not identified TZ/5 Wheatley, William Smith AB RNVR dob: 19 May 1891 Miner doe: 7 Sep 1914 Wounded at Anzac 3rd May 1915 - GSW leftthigh. Sentto Egypt in HS GASCON and admitted military hospital Citadel, Cairo 7t1i May 1915. Embarked CA WDOR CASTLE at Alexandria 1 om August 1915 to rejoin unit. Sent to HS SALTA with pyrexia and enteritis tb6 October 1915, rejoining unit 25th December 1915. Disembarked Marseilles (BEF) 1t1i May 1916. He was wounded in France November 1916 and invalided to England in HS ASTURIAS lOth December1916. Rejoined th 1 1h 1 , Nelson17 Battalion in France 24 November 1917 and draftedto Hood Battalion 9 February 1918. He suffered trenchfever 23rd February 1918. Discharged 8tb January 1919.

Photographs on the opposite page are:-

Above:- Nelson battalion officerson route to Gallipoli.

Sitting left to right :- Sub Lieut. John. Pitcairn Robley, killed 5th June 1915, grave 11.B.6 in Skew Bridge Cemetery, Helles. Lieutenant Commander Herbert Clyde Evans, killed Saturday 5th June 1915. Special Memorial A.17 in Skew Bridge Cemetery, Helles. Tepper (Wounded). Gilbert (Wounded). Andrews.

Standing left to right:- Sub Lieut. John Warden Edwards, killed Saturday 5th June 1915, grave ID.C.14in Skew Bridge, Cemetery, Belles. Lieutenant Robert Clifford Primrose, wounded on 3rd May 1915 at Anzac. James Bookless, killed at Anzac on Tuesday 4th May 1915, has no know grave, his name appears on the Belles Memorial, panel 8 to 15.

Below:- Nelson Battalion on SS Minnetoaka listening to Colonel Eveleigh explaining what is being done on Sunday 25th April 1915.

From the J. Nicol photographs, Liddle Collection,Leeds University.

1619. 1620. LZ/34 Warner, Charles Victor AB RNVR dob: Aug 1894 Draper doe: 1 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac but was then wounded about 15t1, June 1915 on the Relles front- GSW left side. Sent to hospital on Mudros l 611, June 1915, he rejoined his unit 9lh July 1915. Sent to hospital in Alexandria23 rd July 1915, dangerously ill- enteric (paratyphoid). Invalided to England 2nct October 1915. Joined Drake Battalion in France 15t1, December 1916. He was wounded 20th January 1917 - compound fracture left tibia, shell wounds back and face. Died from wounds 22nct January 1917 (aged 22). Buried in Puchvillers British Cemetery, France.

LZ/132 Hewson, Arthur George AB RNVR doh: 16 Oct 1895 Metal worker doe: 7 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac but was subsequently recorded missing on the Relles front13 t1, July 1915. Recorded killed in action (aged 19) following Court of Enquiry 12th August 1915. Relles Memorial, Gallipoli.

LZ/134 Poston, Charles Howard AB RNVR

SZ/59 Putland, Horace Edward AB RNVR dob: 7 Dec 1894 (Patland) doe: 16 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. Sent to hospital, Mudros, with debility 29th July 1915. Leading Seaman 141h December 1915. Petty Officer 15th December 1915. Killed in action (aged 22) in France 23rct April 1917. ArrasMemorial.

TZ/90 Burdon, Walter AB RNVR doh: 26 Jun 1895 (Burden) Patternmaker doe: 11 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac but was later wounded on the Relles front 5th June 1915 - face, serious. Admitted l 7th General Hospital, Alexandria- GSW scalp, moderate - he was invalided to England l 7th June 1915 in HS NEVASA. Admitted RN Hospital, Haslar l st July 1915 - condition satisfactory. Discharged fromHaslar to duty with lst Reserve Battalion, Blandford, 27th July 1915. Admitted RNH Haslar 13th January 1916. Discharged fromHaslar 20th January1916 - "Unserviceable, suffering from shrapnel wound head- vertigo, in action. Refusesoperation. Attributable. Thisinjury alone unfits this man for further service in the Reserves or in any other rating."

14 Section:

LZ/94 Rooke, Frank Albert L/Sea RNVR dob: Mar 1893 Clerk doe: 3 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. Sent to 15thGeneral Hospital, Alexandria, in HMTOSMANIEH , 1911t May 1915 - diarrhoea and dysentery. Rejoined his unit 191h June 1915. He was wounded on Relles front13 t1, July 1915 - GSW in neck. Admitted military hospital, Port Said - GSW spine, dangerously ill. Invalided to England 81h September 1915 in HS GLENGORM CASTLE.

TZ/16 Wilson, Benjamin AB RNVR doh: 7 Apr 1896 Apprentice shipwright,Swan Hunter doe: 7 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac and was later wounded on the Relles front l 3th July 1915 - bullet wound lefthand - to GLOUCESTER CASTLE. Invalided to England l 71h September 1915 in BORNU.

CZ/109 Bell, James AB RNVR doh: 26 Jun 1896 (?Bell, A) Apprentice Turner doe: 9 Sep 1914 He was wounded at Anzac about l st May 1915 - GSW lower extremities. Invalided to England 81h May 1915 - bullet wound leftleg.

1621. Top:- A group of unidentifiedratings with Royal Naval Division cap tallies.

Middle:- Charles Swales on the right with two other unknown Nelsons.

Bottom:- A group of unidentifiedratings having Nelson cap tallies undergoing training with Semaphore flagsat an unknown location. Ratings on the extreme leftbas a 'bunting tosser' trade badge. The bearded rating seated has a Petty Officer's 'hooks'. 1622. TZ/43 Francis, George Edgar AB RNVR doh: 18 Jul 1916 Labourer, Swan Hunter doe: 8 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. Sent to hospital l 11h June 1915 - diarrhoea. BEF France, 25th August 1916, detached for railway work, Etaples. 191h October 1916 discharged RND,re-enlisted Royal Engineers (Reg. No. 206406). Posted to railway operating division.

TZ/50 Nichol, William Charles AB RNVR doh: 31 Oct 1895 Apprentice fitter doe: 8 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. Sent to 1 st Field Ambulance 16th June 1915 - diarrhoea. Rejoined his unit l8 th June 1915 via rest camp. Sent to HS ASTURIAS 13th July 1915 - otitis neck-and admitted hospital, Alexandria, l6 th July 1915 - earache. Invalided to England 4th August 1915 in HS LITITIA. Discharged invalided 3rct February 1916.

LZ/344 Swales, Charles Leonard AB RNVR doh: 11 Jun 1894 Turner& Fitter doe: 12 Sep 1914 He was wounded at Anzac 3rct May 1915 - GSW thigh (severe). Transferredto 17th General Hospital, Alexandria, 7th May 1915 in HS GASCON. Invalided to England in HS NEVASA 17th May 1915. Admitted RN Hospital, Haslar, 28th May 1915 and discharged invalided 26th August 1915.

CZ/103 Harrison, James AB RNVR doh: 19 Nov 1895 Grocer . doe: 8 Sep 1914 At firstreported as missing at Anzac 3rct May 1915, then as wounded in HS GASCON - GSW right thigh. Embarked in HMT CARDIGANSHIRE on 81h June 1915 and rejoined unit on16 th June 1915. At first reported as wounded, then as missing on the Helles front on 13th July 1915 - "Previously reported wounded, now reported missing. Death accepted." (aged 19). Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Harrison, W. - Not identified

Hartsl,orn- Not identified

CZ/110 Craig, Robert Dickie AB RNVR doh: 25 Sep 1894 Apprentice Fitter doe: 9 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac and was later wounded on the Helles front 2151 June 1915 - bullet wound to head. Rejoined his unit 241h June 1915. Wounded second occasion 13th July 1915 - bullet wound to hand. Invalided to England and transferred to Royal Naval Air Service June 1916. There is no record of his later death in WWl.

KX/40 Laverick, George AB RNVR doh: not recorded Miner doe: 9 Sep 1914 RND He enlisted in Durham Light Infantry2 nct_ 8th September 1914 and was then discharged to RND at Naval Camp, Betteshanger. 4th- 10111 October 1914 Belgium and was awarded 1914 Star (for Antwerp) 2nct April 1919. He survived Anzac. To HS DUNLUCE CASTLE 301h May 1915 - diarrhoea. Admitted to Red Cross Hospital, Giza, Cairo, 31s t May 1915 - rheumatism and diarrhoea. Invalided to England 3rd July 1915 in HS LITITIA. 16th February-21s t May 1916 in Nelson Battalion MEF. 25111 May 1916- 26th April 1917 in Nelson Battalion BEF, France. In hospital in England 27th April - 30th May 1917 - shrapnel wound to shoulder. 4th Reserve Battalion, Blandford, 31 st May- 81h July 1917. 1 th th Nelson Battalion BEF, France, 9 " July-13 November 1917. In hospital in England 14 November 1917- 301h January 1918 - fracturedribs. Hawke Battalion BEF, France, 151 April 1918- 7th January 1919. Demobilised 81h February 1919. 15 Section:

CZ/68 Barry, Brodie L/Sea RNVR doh: 15 Sep 1888 Hammerman doe: 5 Sep 1914 Rated AB 1st March 1915. Rated L/Sea 25th February 1915. Disrated OS 29 March 1915 (after the th first weekend in Port Said). Rated AB l7 November 1915. Rated L/Sea 101h August 1917. Disrated 81 AB 21 December 1917 (Drunk� Invalided England - GSW compound fracture1h right arm. Hawke Battalion, France. Discharged invalided 19th June 1918. 1623. KX/49 Musgrave, Joseph AB RNVR dob: Mar 1884 Miner doe: 9 Sep 1914 RND He enlisted in the Durham Light Infantry1 s1- 81h September 1914 and was then dischargedto RND. Took part in Nelson Battalion operations around Antwerp and was awarded 1914 Star lOlh April 1919 1 and clasp 1O lh October 1923. He survived Anzac. Sent to hospital, Mudros, l 6t1 July 1915 - rheumatic fever. Wounded - buried by shell - in France 29°1 April 1917 and invalided to England. Joined Drake Battalion BEF, France, 18lh March 1918. Wounded - shell wound leftthigh-23 rd March 1918 and invalided to England. 5t1, October 1918 gassed and invalided to England. Demobilised 6lh February 1919.

CZ/6 Knox, Robert Glasse AB RNVR dob: 21 Mar 1895 Clerk doe: 5 Sep 1914 He was wounded at Anzac about 3rd May 1915 - compound fractureof the skull. Died of wounds (aged 20) in HMT GLOUCESTER CASTLE and buried at sea between Gallipoli and Alexandria on 4th May 1915. Naval Memorial, Portsmouth.

CZ/56 Stewart, Robert AB RNVR dob: 9 Dec 1895 Apprentice Fitter doe: 7 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. On about 9th September 1915 he was invalided to England fromMudros with dysentery. Subsequently joined Howe Battalion. Killed in action at Gavrelle, France, 28111 April 1917 (aged 21). Arras Memorial, France.

CZ/75 Hazell, Alfred AB RNVR dob: 19 Jan 1895 Apprentice Engineer doe: 7 Sep 1914 He was wounded at Anzac 3rd May 1915 - right thigh. Sent in HS GASCON to Alexandria and rejoined unit 16th June 1915. Subsequently invalided withhernia.

Goss - Not identified

CZ/78 Martin, .Tames (Jim) AB RNVR dob: 16 Mar 1888 Coal Miner doe: 8 Sep 1914 He was recorded as missing at Anzac 3rd May 1915. Death accepted(aged 26). Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

CZ/64 Green, Joseph AB RNVR dob: 14 Oct 1894 Coach Painter doe: 6 Sep 1914 He was recorded as missing at Anzac 3rd May 1915. Death accepted (aged 20). Belles Memorial, Gallipoli. LZ/20 Roberts, Sidney Arthm· ABRNVR dob: 13 Sep 1891 Clerk doe: 31 Aug 1914 11 He survived Anzac. Sent to 3rd Field Ambulance 12 ' Jun 1915 - septic feet - andrejoined unit same day. On13 th July 1915 he was "reportedkilled in action in error" by OC Nelson Battalion, then later "wounded, assumed missing". Assumeddead (aged 23). Belles Memorial, Gallipoli.

LZ/321 Geden, Arthur Bruce AB RNVR doh: 11 Aug 1891 Theological Student doe: 11 Sep 1914 He survivedAnzac. Sent to hospital with diarrhoea and vomiting 12th June 1915 and, later,with scabies 27th June 1915. To HS OXFORDSHIRE with legulcers 23rd November 1915. Invalided 26th December 1915. Machine Gun Company RND 1916. There is no record of his later deathin WWl.

CZ/18 Barclay, Arthur ABRNVR

1624. CS/2348 O'Sullivan, Cornelius Patrick L/Sea RNVR dob: 3 Mar 1895 Apprentice fitter doe: 1 Mar 1913 He was awarded 1914 Star (for Antwerp) - sent to widow, Mrs E O'Sullivan, I81 September 1919. He survived Anzac but was later killed on 6th June 1915 on theHelles front. Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

TZ/46 Robson, Fred AB RNVR dob: 12 Mar 1893 Fireman, NE Railway Co. doe: 8 Sep 1914 He was wounded at Anzac 3rd May 1915 - GSW back - transferred to Cairo in HS GASCON 7th May 1915. Embarked in SOUTHLAND to rejoin his unit 14th June 1915. 22°d May 1916 disembarked from IONIAN at Marseilles. Killed in action in France 23n1 October 1916 (aged 23). Buriedin Hamel Military Cemetery, Beaumont-Hamel.

SZ/21 Short, William Charles AB RNVR dob: 5 Sep 1895 Baker's assistant doe: 9 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. Sent to 2nd Field Ambulance hospital 'W' Beach 4th July 1915 - pyrexia. Transferred to Mustapha 12th August 1915. He rejoined his unit 30th August 1915 but was thenkilled in action on Relles front 6th September 1915 (1 day after20th birthday). "Believed to be buried" in Skew Bridge Cemetery,Helles.

16 Section:

LZ/133 Mann, William Stanley AB RNVR dob: 20 Mar 1894 Clerk doe: 7 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac. Wmmded at Helles 22°d June 1915 - GSW right knee - to 2lst GeneralHospital. Invalided to England lOth August 1915 in HS AENEAS. Admitted DreadnoughtHospital, Greenwich, 24th August 1915. Admitted RN Convalescent Hospital, Chatsworth, Derbyshire, l st December 1915. Subsequently admitted hospitals at Chathamand Portland. Transferred to 3rd Class Writer from l 5th May 1917, serving at Regimental Depot and Pay Staff, Aldershot. There is no record of his later death in WWl.

TZ/64 Skipp,Thomas AB RNVR dob: 12 Jan 1886 Boiler maker, J Readhead& Sons doe: 8 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac but was later wounded 26th May 1915 at Relles- bullet wound abdomen. He was 1i invalided to England 261 August 1915 from HMS EGMONT, Malta,in HS CARISBROOK CASTLE andwas discharged medically unfit26 11' November 1915.

Martin, Jack - Not identified

LZ/135 Taylor, Stephen Wilfred AB RNVR dob: 18 Dec1891 Joiner doe: 7 Sep 1914 He was wounded at Anzac about 6th May 1915 - shrapnel wound to left arm. Invalided to England 21st June 1915. Killed in action withHowe Battalion 17th February1917 in France (aged 25). Buried in Queen'sCemetery, Bucquoy.

KX.88 Scrowther, John George ABRNVR dob: Sep1893 Miner doe: 9 Sep 1914 RND He enlisted in the NorthumberlandFusiliers 2 °d - 8th September 1914 and was thendischarged to RND. Awarded 1914 Star (for Antwerp) - sentto father, Mr G Scrowther, IOth November 1919. He was wounded at Anzac 3rd May 1915 - bullet wound neck - and died of wounds thesame day (aged 21). He is buried at Beach Cemetery, Anzac.

CZ/30 Auld, George AB RNVR dob: 5 Jul 1884 Cabinet Maker doe: 5 Sep 1914 He was reported missing in action at Anzac 3n1 May 1915. Court of Enquiry 12th August 1915 recorded killed in action (aged 30). Belles Memorial, Gallipoli.

1625. LZ/251 Pewtress, Herbert William Eric AB RNVR dob: 16 Oct 1893 Photographer doe: 9 Sep 1914 He survivedAnzac. Sentto hospital lst Field Ambulance with pyrexia 22 nd August 1915. Invalidedto England with paratyphoid 21'11October 1915. JoinedHowe Battalion. Rated L/Sea 2nd October 1916. To UK for Commission 19th October1917. There is no record ofhis laterdeath in WWl.

KX/71 Turner, JosephThompson AB RNVR dob: Sep 1893 Labourer doe: 9 Sep 1914 He was awarded 1914 Star (forAntwerp)-to motherMrs A Turner l9 th June 1920. Deserter from Blandford8 th January 1915. He survived Anzac. Sentto hospital,Dardanelles, 27th May 1915 - septic hand. Sent to hospital on Malta, in HMS CLAN McGILLIVRAY, l 0111 July 1915 - venereal. Invalided to England 28th August 1915 in HS ASCANIA. Broke out forthird time from Blandford 8th February 1916 and sentenced to 42 days detention at Chatham. Joined BEF in France 11 thDecember 1916. Killed in action with Howe Battalion l 41h August 1917 (aged 23). Buried in Orchard Dump Cemetery, Arleux-En-Gohelle.

KX/69 Foster,Robert William AB RNVR dob: Jun 1892 Labourer doe: 9 Sep 1914 RND He enlisted in the Durham Light hlfantry2 nd- 8th Sep 19 l4 and was thendischarged to RND. Awarded 1914 Star (Antwerp) 19111 July 1919. He survived Anzac but was later wounded 13th July 1915 at Belles - concussion and shrapnel injury to abdomen. Embarked IONIAN at Mudros 16th May 1916 and disembarked Marseilles 22°d May 1916. Woundedin action France 13th November 1916 - GSW arm, amputation, and right thigh. Awarded Military Medal "in connectionwith operation north of the Anere."

CZ/74 Sinclair, Alexander Hastings AB RNVR dob: 7 Apr 1889 ShoeOperator doe: 7 Sep 1914 He survived Anzac but was later reported as missing in action on the Relles front13 1h July 1915. Death accepted (aged 26). Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

CZ/73 Ware, Lawrence Offord L/Sea RNVR dob: 3 Jun 1885 Ship Draughtsman doe: 7 Sep 1914 He was reported missing in action at Anzac 3rd May 1915. Court of Enquiry 12th August 1915 recorded killed in action (aged 29). Belles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Wilden (S) - Not identified

Nelson Battalion was landed at Anzac Cove on 29th April 1915 to relieve the hard­ pressed Anzacs. Nine members of the platoon were killed or mortally wounded in the fighting on or about 3rd May, including the Platoon Officer, Sub Lieutenant GP Cooke RNVRi, and one of the Platoon Petty Officers. A furtherseven ratings were wounded, of whom fourlater rejoined the Nelsons at Relles and three, including my father, were invalidedto Egypt and then England. Interestingly, most (five) received leg wounds like my father,perhaps becausetheir head and upper bodywere low down while trying to entrench. The platoon casualty rate of killed and wounded (16 of 45) during the short time on the Anzac front was, therefore, over 35%. Only one of those killed is in a marked grave, at Beach Cemetery. The two weeks of fighting at Anzac resulted in about50 of the total of some 270 Nelson Battalion deaths during the Gallipoli campaign, a high percentage considering that only A and B Companies were involved in the Anzac battle of211d/3rd May. With at least nine of those fifty deaths, my father'splatoon (one ofeight in the two Nelson companies engaged) seems to have suffered particularly badly.

1626. Afterthe move from Anz.aca further seven members ofthe platoon were killed on the Relles front and ten others were wounded, representing more than another third ofthe original 45 identified. The heaviest casualties were taken on 13th July, when the Nelson Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Edmund Evelegh RMLI was mortally wounded. Jerrold ii described the Nelson's losses in this battle as "disastrous". For the surviving 33 who fought at Relles afterAnzac their seventeen dead and wounded represented a casualty rate ofover 51%. In addition, 19 ratings were recorded as sick while at Relles, paratyphoid and dysentery being prevalent. Of the 29 wounded and sick, 19 were invalided to England. Only twelve of the original 45 identified members ofthe platoon, a little over a quarter, served the eight months to the end of the Gallipoli campaign. Ofthese twelve it appears that only one rating had not been sick or wounded.

To summarise the Gallipoli campaign, the 45 identified members ofmy :futher's platoon stood a 36% chance of being killed or mortally wounded in action there. If they were not among the killed, their chances ofbeing wounded were 45%. Their chances ofbeing killed or wounded in action were about 65%. Their probability of surviving on the Gallipoli peninsular until the withdrawal in January 1916 was about 25%.

Ofthe fiveunidentified ratings, my father's diary noted one as missing in action, three as being wounded and one as sick. Ifthe fourmissing and wounded are correctly annotated, the total killed at Gallipolirises to seventeen and the number ofwounded to twenty out of a platoon offifty. The overall percentage ofthe platoon killed and wounded rises to nearly 75%.

A third ofthe ratings at Gallipoli (15 of45) went on to fight with the RND in France, either direct fromthe Gallipoli campaign or after invaliding to England. In France six of them ( 40%) were killed. It is noteworthy that whereas there are only two graves for the sixteen sailors killed on Gallipoli, only two of the six killed in France have no known grave. Six ratings served until the end ofthe Great War: three ratings from London Division, one fromT yne Division and two of the 'KX' men fromKitchener's Army. Three ofthese six long-term survivors were from the north-east and all three were coal miners. The only Military Medal ofthe platoon went to a 'KX' Geordie. It is also interesting that the thirteen men fromthe North-eastof England (Tyne Division and 'KX') had the lowest percentage (23%) killed in action (compared with London Division 46%, Clyde Division 65% and Sussex Division 100% ). The overall rate was 22 of 45 killed in the Great War -just under 50%.

I would be pleased to hearfrom RND readers who have an interest in the Nelsons and who can shed some light on the Battalion/Company/Platoon organization at Gallipoli. Any help with the remaining unidentified ratings listed by my father (Mattinson, W. Harrison, Hartshorn, Goss, Jack Martin, Wilden), or information on any other ratings, would be most welcome.

Contact: E-mail: [email protected] Telephone:

01458-241483 ii See Jerrold, Douglas: "The Royal Naval Division" p.123 See Jerrold, Douglas: "TheRoyal Naval Division" pp.142-146

1627 GALLIPOLI

CASUALTIES OF THE ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION WITH NO KNOWN GRAVES.

Names appear on the Helles Memorial.

From the database of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

st 11 Kinnon, Stoker l Class, William, 285805. (RFR/CH/B/6086) Howe Bn. Died 4 ' June 1915. Panel 1 & 2.

Kinsey, Musician, Bertram Louis, RMB/l 083. Drake Bn. Royal Marines. Died 20th July 1915. Age 25 years. Only son of Rose Hannah Connolly (Formerly Kinsey), of 22, HatfieldSt., Anfield, Liverpool, and the late Reuben ThomasKinsey. Panel 1 and 2.

Kirsopp, Able Seaman, George Albert,KP/980. °Anson Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 6th May 1915. Panel 8 to 15.

11 Kitchen, private, Alfred Edward, P0/883(S). Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 13 ' July 1915. Age 26 years.Son of Walter C. and Maria E. Kitchen, of 52, Hex Rd., Willesden, London. Panel 2 to 7.

Kitson, Able Seaman, John, KW/189. Nelson Bn. RN.V.R. died 13th July 1915. Age 29 years. Son of Mrs ElizabethKitson, of 8, Tavern St., Primrose Hill, Wakefield. Panel 8 to 15.

Knotts, Able Seaman, Charles, Tyneside ZJ475. Collingwood Bn. R.N.V.R. Died4 th June 1915. Age 27 years. Son of Mr and Mrs T. Knotts, of 22, Cowan Terrace, Rowlands Gill, Co. Durham. Panel 8 to 15.

th Kortens, Able Seaman, Edward Robert, MerseyZJ330. Nelson Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 13 July 1915. Age 28 years. Son of Edward and Mary Ann Kortens,of 76, Picton Avenue, Stenhills,Runcorn, Cheshire. Panel 8 to 15.

Laird, Able Seaman, G. Clyde ZJ4360. Hawke Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 26th December1915. Panel 8 to 15.

Lampard, Private. David. P0/492(S). PortsmouthBn. R.M.L.I. Died 6th May 1915. Age 23 years. Son of William and Amielia Lampard, of 141, Nelson St., South Bank,Yorks. Panel 2 to 7.

Lancaster, Able Seaman, C. Mersey ZJ50.Nelson Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 2n<1 May 1915. Panel 8 to 15.

6 Lancaster, Leading Seaman, FrederickCharl es, Mersey51125. Anson Bn. RN.V.R. Died 6 ' May 1915. Age 21 years.Son of Mr. F. H. and Jessie M. Lancaster, of 22, LaburnumRoad, Wallasay, Cheshire. Panel 8 to 15.

Lane, Able Seaman, J. W. London 10/3178. Drake Bn. RN.V.R. Died 2lst November 1915. Panel 8 to 15.

Langdon, Private, J. H. CH/12183. (RFRIB/1201) Chatham Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 13th May 1915. Panel 2 to 7.

1628. Langlands, Able Seaman, Edward Walker, Tyneside Z/2605.Hawke Bn. RN. V.R. Died l 9th June 1915. Age 26 years. Son of Edward James and Margaret Jane Langlands, of 39, Denham Terrace, Wallsend, Northumberland. Panel 8 to 15.

Langworthy, PettyOfficer, G, DEV/204218. Nelson Bo. Royal Navy. Died 13th July 1915. Panel l and 2.

Laurence, Private, Arthur Barker,PLY/36(S), Plymouth Bo. R.M.L.I. Died 3rd May 1915. Age 18 years. Son of Frank and Alice Mary Laurence, off11, Lindum St., Hexthorpe,Doncaster. Panel 2 to 7.

Lewes,Private, J, P0/5613. (RFR/CH/B/515) Chatham Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 30th April 1915. Age 42 years. Husband of Mary L. Lawaes, of 25, LorneGardens, NottinhHill, London. Panel 2 to 7.

Lawless, Private, F. P0/717(S). Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 6th May 1915. Panel 2 to 7.

Lawless, Able Seaman, H. Tyneside Z/1939.Anson Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 4th June 1915. Panel 8 to 15.

Lawlor, Private, Thomas, P0/572(S). Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 301h July 1915. Age 19 years. Son of John Lawlor, of16, Diamond St., Wallsend, Northumberland. Panel 2 to 7.

Lawrie, Stoker 1st Class, Clarence Fergusion, SS/107703. Howe Bn. Died 18th May 1915. Age 28 years.Son of Eliza Anne Lawrie, of60, Thelwall Avenue, Fallowfield, Manchester,and thelate John Lawrie. Panels 1 and 2 and Additional Panel.

Lawson, Able Seaman, J, Clyde Z/2270. Nelson Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 13th July 1915. Panel 8 to 15.

Lawson, Private, J. W. P0/13l(S). Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 13t1i July 1915. Panel 2 to 7.

Layton, Able Seaman, George, Tyneside Z/505. Collingwood Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 4lh June 1915. Age 19 years. Son of Robert and Jessie Sophia Layton, of3, Byer Moor, Burnopfield.Co. Durham. Panel 8 to 15.

Leather, Able Seaman, George Henry, KW/260. Nelson Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 3ro May 1915. Age 18 years. Son of Samual and Bertha Leather, of 212, Moore St., Sheffield.Panel 8 to 15.

Ledger,Lance Corporal, Arthur, CH/9067.(RFR/B/293) Chatham Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 4t1i May 1915. Age 35 years. Husband ofJoh anna Ledger,of 15, SandfieldRod., Kirkstall, Leeds.Panel 2 to 7.

Lee, Private, G. W. P0/16389. Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 12t1i July 1915. Panel 2 to 7.

Lee, Able Seaman, Thomas, KW/321. Anson Bn. R.N.V.R Died 4th June1915. Husband of Sarah Pearson(formerly Lee), of 54, King's St., Batley Carr, Batley, Yorks. Panel 8 to 15.

Lee,Able Seaman, W. KW/319. Drake Bn. R.N.V.R. Died6 th May 1915. Age 26 years. Served as CONEY. Son of Ann Lee, of 90, Gray St., Burton Rd., Lincoln, and the late Thomas Lee. Panel 8 to 15.

11 Lee, Private, William Augustine, P0/479(S). Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 8 ' May 1915. Age 19 years. Son of John ThomasLee, of39, FarmerRd., Leyton, London. Panel 2 to 7.

Lees,Able Seaman, John ORR, Clyde Z/965. Anson Bn. R.N.V.R. Died 21st September 1915. Age 23 years. Son of Mrs William Lees, of Pleasance Place, Birkhill,Dundee. Panel 8 to 15.

Lees,Private, Robert Alexander,P0/10494. (RFR/B/1169) Portsmouth Bn. R.M.L.I. Died 8th May 1915. Age 37 years. Brother of Miss Helen Lees, of 12, King's Road, Portobello, Edinburgh. Panel 2 to 7.

Leggott, Able Seaman, R.H.KP/388. HoodBn. R.N.V.R. Died 6th May 1915. Panel 8 to 15.

1629. ANTWERP

EXAMINATIONOF COMMANDER S.W. BEADLE, R.N. COMMANDING OFFICER OF THE HAWKE BATTALION.

From evidence taken at the Chatham Enquiry in 1919.

The firstorder I thinkcame about 5.30-I cannot remember the right time- saying we were going to hold on and at about 8.15, I got orders to retire at 8 o'clock, which order was cancelled and the order to retire was made 9 o'clock. I was informed that a small company of Marines would take over my trenches and cover my retreat, seeing that we were untrained and were unable to fight a rearguard action if necessary. Major French (PortsmouthBattalion.) arrived shortly after nine o'clock with quite a small force of Marines and I told him I wantedto retire at once to the rendezvous, Chateau Dragon at 10 o'clock. Major French absolutely refused to take over my trenches until I told him the whole situation. He said his orders were to hold on and he was not going to retire so that I could go but he would die at his post and all that sort of thing. The StaffMajor came up by a quarterpast nine and told him not to be a foolas his orders were to cover my retreat, makea demonstration and clear out as soon as he could. It took three quartersof an hour to get into the trenches andhe wanted me to show him each individual trench which covered over a mile. I refusedand told him to take over as I was to get out.

I did not retire until 10 o'clock making me an hour late and I missed my rendezvous. Later Major French with his party overtook me at the Aviation Ground and ar.;he seemed to know the direction in which he was going, I tagged on to the end of his men and we went right up along the River Bank, through the dock and across the northern bridge and I found out fromMajor French that he was going to Zwyndrecht and I reported to the Commodore when I arrived there, I think, at five o'clock in the morning. I think it was aboutseven o'clock when we started offagain forBeveren Waes where we halted and served out meat and then we went offabout twelve fora rendezvous at St Gilles Waes. I was the leading battalion and at fouro'clock I took the wrong turning and foundthat I was three or four miles fromthe rendezvous. I had to retracemy steps and I asked the men fora special effortand they said "If you go ahead, we will follow you."

I was very nearly at St Gilles Waes when a Belgian Guard on the road reported a German scouting squadron coming along. We doubled into a field and the men opened frre. I tried to stop them but it was absolutely hopeless as they would fire at anything. I might say, seven of the men dropped their riflesin the road as they could not fire them, they had never handled them before for firing. We foundout afterwardsthat we had beenfiring at Belgians and not Germans.

1630. I formed up the men and marched to St Gilles Station where I found one Lieutenant and forty men of the Collingwood Battalion. They reported to me and I was asked to take chargeof them and we marched to the frontier where the rest of the brigade had gone. I marched along the road and got to Le Clinge, at about half past six. I then tried to get into touch with the rest of the brigade. A portion of them marched over the frontier not knowing where the frontier was and they were interned.I asked the officer to get into touch or into communication with the rest of the brigade as the Dutch Frontier Guard said that the Brigade and Staffhad gone into Holland, but they knew nothing more. I waited until nine o'clock or ten when the order came from the Brigade Major asking me to intern. My Adjutant got inside and I asked him to see what he could do. I waited until twelve o'clock thinking there was some idea of getting clear and then I interned."

Q. "Were your men at that time ina very exhausted state?"

A. "Absolutely exhausted. As soon as we got to the frontier they simply laid down."

Q. "And I take it they were quite incapable of putting up any resistance?"

A. "They were done and absolutely useless. They could not march any further; they had no food or water."

Q. "Did you join the Commodore?"

A. "Yes, at Zwyndrecht."

Q. "Yes, but subsequent to that. When you became interned, did you join him?"

A. "On the Saturday morning.I did not actually report to the Commodore until we got to Flushing. I was about three miles away from the Hulst Station and we started offI think at seven or sixin the morning. We went in two parties and the Commodore had then leftand it was not until we actually got to Flushing that I reported to him."

Q. "When you were given orders to retire from yourtrenches had you information as to whether the retirement was to be to the coast or any other position ?"

A. ''No, I had absolutely no idea. I knew we were leaving Antwerp but where we were going or what we were going for,I did not know. We understood three or fourhours before we retired that we were going to hold on."

Q. "Apart fromthe falsealarm given to you by the Belgians as to the German forcesadvancing, and upon whom you opened fire, had you any other information aboutthe German forcesbeing in your neighbourhood ?"

1631. A. ''No, absolutely no definite information. The Belgians were always telling differentstories every day but there was never any definiteinformation. When I was about three miles on the far side of St Gilles a Belgian post on the road told me that the Germans were in St Gilles and also that they were in St Nicholas which was about fivemiles the other side, but as to whether it was true or not, I do not know."

Q. "So you were really without information at all as to the state of affairs?

A. "Absolutely without information."

Q. "All you really were aware of was that your men were practically incapable of furthermarching or of any resistance?"

A. ' "Yes."

Q. "Is that true?"

A. "Yes."

Q. "I should like to know what form of order you got fromthe Brigade Major to intern.Do you remember whether it was in writing ?"

A. "It was in writing, my Adjutant had it."

Q. "He had it in writing. Does a copy exist now?"

A. ''No, I do not thinkit does."

Q. "Do you remember who it was signed by?"

A. "I think it was signed by the Brigade Major."

Q. "You would not remember his name?"

A. "I know the Brigade Major's name but I am not absolutely certain whether it was Cunningham who signed it or not." (See R.N.D. Number 8 page 626.)

Q. "You took the order as coming from the Commodore?"

A. "Yes."

Q. "Did you see any more of Major French and his detachment or company?"

A. "I saw him at Zwyndrecht. He went offvery fast when he got the other side of the bridge and I had to find out where he was going to so I followed. Whether he stayed at Zwyndrecht or not, I am not absolutely certain.

1632. Q. "But did he actually leave the front trenches after you?"

A. "He leftafter me with a small force.

Q. "And came through you?"

A. "He did not actually come through me. There was a triangle at the side of the road he was going along and I was going along on the right side and he was the other side and I decided to foHow him as my guide was uncertain as he had not a very good map."

Q. "Were you supplied with maps yourself?"

A. "I had one map forthe whole battalion; Commander Fargus had a copy." (Commander Fargus Commanding Officerof Benbow Battalion.)

* * * * *

Reference:- Public Record Office, Kew. ADM/116/1814.

1633. GALLIPOLI

MEDICAL ADMINSTRATION OF A DIVISION HOLDING A SECTOR OF DEFENCE, IN TRENCH WARFARE.

DIVIDEDINTO :- "A" General preservation of health. "B" Dealing with the sick. "C'' Dealing with the wounded.

"A" General preservation of health.

Especially in trench warfare must the rules ofsanitation be most carefullyadhered to as the overcrowded, long inhabited ground is otherwise apt to become very foul.

Organised sanitation fromthe firetrench along the communicating trench, along the roads and surroundings andin the rest camp is to be carried out on the main principal ofcleanliness and good scavenging. A well plannedcamp with broad, hard, clearly defined paths between well made dug-outs makes this scavenging easier and a supply ofsuch labour saving devices as brooms, rakes, ba5kets, watering cans, wheel barrows etc., have made this work more rapid and thorough. The Japanesesystem ofan advanced party consisting chieflyof sanitarians, engineers and other scientificmen who plan the camp sink the wells, examine the water, build the destructers and decide on the positions oflatrines, cook-houses, horse lines etc, is strongly to be advised because a mistake in laying out a camp and more especially the digging ofthe dug­ outs cannot be rectified afterwards.

There are two fallacies which aredifficult to eradicate, one is that sanitation is the sole concernof the Medical Officer and some visionary established sanitary working party which does not exist. The other is that you can allow all sorts ofdisgusting accumulations of fooddebris, excreta, andother filthto collect provided you put some disinfectant on it. This leads to costly and comparatively useless expenditure ofcresol etc.

Bum all refuseis the principle in the camp. Bury all refuseis the principal in the trenches. Ifthe burning or burying has to be delayed sprinkle on the heaps cresol (1- 200) solution or some chlorinated lime or some crude petroleum. These fora very short time will prevent flieslaying their eggs in these places. The chief breeding places of fliesbeing horse dung, a special destructor oflarge size should always he put close to the horse lines to burn all horse dung.

1634. In connection with preservation of health in camp should be mentioned the importance of mental rest forthe Officers and men. Our rest camps in the southernzone of the Peninsula have never been secure from enemy fire. Of great medical importance, therefore, is the makingof such well devised dug-outs that the men can rest in comparativesafety in them. Each dug-out should hold only one man, it should be deep and narrow, it should lie across the line of the enemy's frre and should have plenty of good solid ground around it.

On the road fromthe rest camp to the communication trench protection from disease may be secured by good sanitary parties told offfrom the brigade responsible forthe area in question. All the ground in the R.N.D. area is divided into three sub-areas and of the three Brigadiers one is made responsible for each of these areas.

The central advisory authority on the whole scheme of sanitation is the D.A.D.M.S. and he should have attached to Divisional Headquartersabout half-a-dozen well trained inspectors who would be continually walking round the sub-areas and reporting upon work to be done.

In proceeding from rest camp to the communicating trench many casualties from shrapnel might be avoided by having some sunken or otherwise hidden protected roads at the dangerous places. The enemy use covered-in trenches much more than we do.

In the communicating and other trenches there should be T shaped recesses for latrines and the care of these should be placed definitely in the hands of special police, one sanitary policeman to every hundred yards of trench. These details could easily be selected fromthe (light duty) men or other of the semi-effectives. Probablya deep pit is the only kind of latrine possible and the sanitarymen should frequently be inspecting these and covering with earth any exposed excreta. Near each latrine recess should be a refuse recess of a similar character top the latrine and he would be responsible for the cleanliness of the whole hundred yards of his trench. In the trench latrine and refuse pit a free use of chlorinated lime is desirable and in the urine pits a little crude petroleum is most useful in preventing fliescollecting and alighting.

To protect foodfrom flies is a difficult problem but every man should be educated in the importance of this and covered tins should largely be made use of

Water supply must be ample or men will drink polluted trench water. Lieutenant Colonel Richardson has brought forwardvarious suggestions. To my mind trench warfare is like open warfarein miniature. Instead of animal drawn vehicles coming andgoing from the refill post nearly to the firetrench you have to substitute man handling with or without some sort of wheeled assistance. We have devised an R.N.D. Mono-cycle Stretcher-carrier which replaces in the trenches the Ambulance wagons of the open type. A minature water cart might similarly be devised. The advantage of this is that it can be taken away and cleaned periodically and that it can be used similarly to the full-sized water cart. It could be stored in a recess in the firetrench and could be filled from paraffintins or from pipes, the water being then chlorinated.

1635. In camps deep wells should be sunk at once and a pure supply of water ensured. If this cannotbe done every other water supply ( except deep spring such as Romano's ) should be condemnedas unfitfor drinking or washing cooking utensils until it had either been boiled or treated with bleaching powder in the marked water cart.

No one except a Medical Officer should pronounce a verdict on the water supply. Occasionally an engineer Officer does pronounce a well as quite safe and supplying beautiful drinking water. This should never be allowed. There is always a great inclination to drink any water which looks andtastes all right and the slightest encouragement from an Officerwi ll add still further to the M.O's difficulties. The examination of a water supply in the fieldshould be chiefly confined to examining the site and surroundingsto see if the supply is pollutable. All tedious and difficult chemical and bacteriological examinations are as nothing compared with this geological and physico-geographical examination of the site. Beforeleaving the subject of water I must draw attention to the uncleanablenes of the service water bottles. The neck ought to be much largerso as to allow one to insert a cloth to wipe it out.

Anti-Smallpox vaccination and Anti-Typhoid inoculation should becompulsory and every Officerand man should have undergone these beforeleaving home and a note of the date and result made in each man's pay book. Anti-Cholera inoculation should be postponed until late as its immunisation lasts rather a short time ( doubtful : but a rough average is three months.) This is best done when a Unit is being given a rest and it should be made compulsory.

I quite agree with Lieutenant Colonel Richardson's remarks concerningrations. Medical opinion should be taken. The supply Officer and the Principle Medical Officer might together be called upon to report once a week if any changes are desirable and possible. It should not be leftuntil the Units complain.The wants of the fighting troops should be foreseenand anticipated.

Vermin is a difficult problem and must bemet by every available device e.g. short cropping hair, wearing of sulphur bag amulet, washing or dipping clothing and blankets into a tub of softsoap, cresol and water. Steaming the clothes in an improvised field disinfectorand serving out Coal-tar soap to the men, also frequent bathing whenever possible and the establishment shortly of a large disinfecting station where men may be sent in batches of say twenty, three times a day and dealt with just as vagrants are dealt with in our large cities, would help. Frequent Medical inspections are necessary and men should be warnedagainst one another's clothes or going intonative habitations.

"B" Dealing with the sick.

A defmite and clear routine as regards the dealing with the sick of the division is very necessary both forpreventing irregularities and for keeping the A.D.M.S. informed as to the state of health of the troops.

1636. The best routine is as follows :-

1. Every Officer or man who requires attention must see his Regimental M.O.

2. An Officer if too ill to report himself,should send a message to the M.O.

3. Officerswill report direct to the M.O. All others should report to the N.C.O. detailed forthe duty. This N.C.O. will prepare a nominal roll of the men with their officialnumbers etc. and shall then muster them at the time and place appointed forseeing the sick. Serious cases will be brought on stretchers.

3. Urgent cases will be seen by the M.O. at any time, but the great majority of the cases should be seen at the regular appointed hour. Officersshould discourage men fromdrifting to see the doctor at allodd hours of the day and night.

The M.O. will divide up the patients into. (a) Sick list cases to besent at once to hospital. (b) Sick list cases to be treated by himself. (c) Attending list cases to be returned to duty, attending fortreatment. ( d) Malingers to be returnedto duty at once with a caution. Great discretion will be necessary in classifyingthese patients and the regimental M.O. must continually bearin mind the danger of making it too easy for men to get away fromthe fire trenches. Chronic ailments such as Neria Varicocele, contain dental cases etc, must be returnedto duty and told that their ailments can wait fortreatment until after the campaign is over. Hardshipswill occasionally be inflicted but the disasterous result of a rot setting in must always be present in the mind of the regimental M.O. and he must look to his C.O. to back him up on this.

In the rest camp cases (a) will be sent to the Field Ambulance detailed to receive the sick, a note abouteach case accompanying them and occasionally the M.O. visiting the Field Ambulance personally to give fuller particularsconcerning special cases. The labels in Army Book No. 166 areconvenient forthis purpose for both sick and wounded sent to hospital (fieldambulance).

Here I might mention that I think these labels ought to beat least twice as large : the present pattern does not leave enough room fornotes and there is no heading forthe date; also the red edge might be perforated so that a red label could be easily converted into a whiteone.

As regards(b) (c) and (d) no thing special need besaid except that all sick list cases must appearin the M.O's daily sick book (M195) and the letters H.C. should be written opposite the names of every case entitled to a hurt certificateso that at the end of the campaign these certificates can be made out.

Treating the sick in camp is difficult and unsatisfactory. It is well, therefore,to have all sick patients segregated in special dugouts with a separate latrine so that measures as regards diet, disinfection, etc, can be more easily superintended. A carefully accounted for supply of special medical comforts should be drawn by the regimental quartermasterand issued only on a written order signed by the M.O. These should consist chiefly of condensed milk, rice, arrowroot, lime juice and bovril. Any patient requiring more than these is not a suitable case fortreatment in camp.

1637. When the battalion proceeds up to the trenches all the sick list cases should be discharged to the fieldambulance. Of the attending list a certain number will be only fit forlight duty and will be leftin camp under the charge of the quartermaster. The M.O. should give the quartermaster two nominal rolls of these cases, one to be retained in camp, and the other to be sent daily to the Field Ambulance with the N.C.O. who marches the patients there fortreatment. On this list the Field Ambulance M.O. will note daily (1) Which cases have been transferredto hospital. (2) Which are sent to fullduty and the quartermasterwill likewise keep the Regimental M. 0. and the C.O. informed of these cases daily. If this routine is not carefullycarried out there will be certain to arise many irregularities.

When the battalion arrives in the trenches no officer or man shall leave formedical reasons until he has been seen by the M.O. who alone will decide whether the individual can. (a) Carryon his duty (b) Go back to the rest camp on the light duty list. (c) Be sent to the Field Ambulance along the route forevacuation of the wounded. All cases sent back shall have a duly filled in signed label and the light duty cases will be added by the quartermasterto his copy and the Field Ambulance's copy of the light duty list. Only in the rarestcases shall anyone beaccepted by the quartermaster or the Field Ambulance unless they have a labelsigned by the M.O. and subsequently a careful investigation of these irregular cases shall always be made by the quartermaster and a report sent to the C.O. and the M.O. of the battalion.

The Field Ambulance of a division are three in number and I have found it convenient in our resent trench warfare to have:-

(A)

One of these at a main dressing station on the main road of evacuation fromour sector of trenches. This Field Ambulancesupplies bearers to an advanced bearerpost, one tent sub-division to an advanced dressing station situated at the furthestpoint to which vehicles can conveniently go and the remaining tent sub-divisions in the main dressing station to receive, treat and when necessary send back to the casualty clearing station all sick and wounded fromthe trenches.

(B)

One Field Ambulance in a dressing station close in rear of the rest camp. This Field Ambulance will supply extra bearers wherever wanted and will establish a sort of stationary hospital with their tent sub-divisions. They will receive treat and when necessarysend back to the casualty clearing station all sick and wounded fromthe rest camps. (A steady flow of cases wounded in camp by shell fire occurs daily).

(C)

The remaining Field Ambulance should be held in reserve in some suitable rest camp where they will recruit their health and strenf:.,rthand do no work except in any special emergency. As far as possible I send one Field Ambulance to this rest camp for a fortnightso that they each have fourweeks very hard work followedby a fortnights

1638. complete rest. This has worked extremely well and is essentially an arrangement suitable for this particular kind of warfare.

As regardsreceiving and treating the sick they are continually in touch with the regiments in frontand the casualty clearing station in rear and the object aimed at is to treat light cases as much as possible and yet be ready at short notice to completely empty their dressing stations in case a large number of wounded is expected. A good mutual understanding between the Field Ambulance and the casualty clearing station is very necessary and it is one of the most important duties of the A.D.M.S. to superintend this. Opinions may often differ as to whether a case is one for being sent on to the base hospital with a strong note suggesting an invaliding board and often a well worded message or a personal visit will prevent unpleasantness.

"C" Dealingwith the wounded.

When an action is contemplated the G.O.C. gives the A.D.M.S. as early notice as possible and he at once should call a Conferenceof the C.O's of his three Field Ambulances and if possible, the S.M.O's of his three Brigades. Ways and means are discussed, a careful plan of action is laid down on broad lines and a certain amount of licence is always leftto the Officer on the spot to modifythis plan in minor details; but it is essential that everyone should be kept acquainted with any turnevents may be taking; forthis reason a Medical telephone wire is essential (details concerning this are given later).

Firstly the Regimental M.O's with their C.O's arrangethe position of their Regimental Aid Posts. The Most convenient position forthe main R.A.P. is a large bullet proof dug-out offthe advanced end of the main descending communicating trench used for evacuating wounded. If the frontheld be a short one it is often convenient for two Regimental M.O's to share one such large dug-out but there are points against this, the principal one being localised congestion. The R.A.P's should be spread out along the most advanced of the cross communication trenches, the main R.A.P. with the telephone being as beforestated near the head of the descending stretcher trench. The making of these dug-outs must be put inhand at once and I have noticed that the material for their construction is often difficultto procure.

I should suggest that the labour should be supplied by the Regimental stretcher bearers, sanitary police, and water duty men. The work should be completed sufficiently early forall hands to have a good rest beforethe work of stretcher bearing commences.

The supply of material should be controlled by one central Officer who canput to the best use the material available. Otherwise a less importantwork may use up more than its due proportion of the material.

Each Regimental Medical Officershould have a notice board always with himbearing the name of his Battalion and "Medical Officer"with a large red cross carefully inscribed thereon. This board should be about 18" long by 6" deep and it should be nailed onto a peg 2 feet long thus ;- 1639. This notice boardshould mark the regimental aid post when in the trenches and the sick bay dug-out when in camp. In this regimental aid post there should be a telephone instrument at the most advanced end of the special medical telephone wire. The regimental M.O. should establish himself here with a certain number of his regimental bearers, stretchers, (Army patternand Neil Robertson) and stores. He should see that there is a good approachto and fromand that there is room to attend to about four stretcher cases at a time. He should acquaint his C.O. of his exact whereabouts and should havearrow shaped direction posts marked with a red cross placed at suitable spots in the trenches pointing fromthe fire trench to his R.A.P. He should also get in touch with the advanced bearer posts of the Field Ambulance, sending a guide if necessary to show the way and placing similardirection posts at suitable positions pointing from his R.A.P. down the main descending communicating trench used for evacuating wounded. He is now ready forthe action and as soon as there are wounded his bearers shall proceed up to the fire trench and bring them back to him. He will deal rapidly with these; dressing them, labelling them and entering in his Sick Book all particulars. On the label he will carefully record the name and number, the nature of the wound and the treatment give� (especially morphia) and above all he must aim at rapid evacuation and methodical avoidance of congestion and disorder.

The nextstep in the evacuation of the wounded is the descending communicating trench used forstretchers. The French have a very clearly defined "Boyau Montant" and Boyau Descendant" and I think there should be whenever possible two such trenches entirely forthe use of the wounded. At intervals in this bays should be cut out so asto allow of the slightly wounded walking past the stretchers. In trench warfare a noticeable feature isthe great distance that the wounded have to be carried by hand. For this reasontwo points must be bornein mind one there must be a very large number of bearers available and a division in action should thereforebe able to borrow extra bearers froma division not in action. Also, some sort of single wheeled stretcher cax:rierwould lighten the work of the bearers very much and such a carrier has beendevise� by the Rev. Close and has proved most useful.An important point in trenches is that it is very easy to lose ones way. Thereforenames should be given to all important trenches and junction posts, clearly lettered notice boards placed at suitable spots and precautions takento have a supply of intelligent guides by night.

1640. Opening out of this descending stretcher trench near its lower end should be four capacious bullet proof dug-outs able to hold 24 stretcher bearers in each who can wait here till called upon forduty.

The next detail in the evacuation of the wounded is the "Advanced Bearer Post". This should be situated at some spot near the lower end of the ascending and descending stretcher trenches in a conveniently open space through which all the wounded must pass. The second telephone instrument will be here and here will be stationed a bearer Officer of good organising ability. Upon him will devolve the main duty of preventing congestion. He will receive information from the R.A.P. as to the numbers of wounded coming in and he will send word to the Dressing Stations for reinforcements or relief andkeep them informed how many wounded to expect. He will keep the whole situation in his own control and will issue orders to the bearerswho, we have already mentioned, are held in readiness in dug-outs round about his position.

It has beenfound that as the firing line has advanced the length of the communicating trenches has increased so much that it is best to divide the bearer work into two distinct stages- (a) fromR.A.P. to Advanced Bearer Post and (b) fromthe latter to the wagons. We usually employ the bearers of one Field Ambulance in stage A and of another Field Ambulance in stage B. Of course, the bringing of wounded back from the firing line to the R.A.P. is done by the regimental stretcher bearers, supplemented if necessary by the fighting troops.

As a rule no treatment of the wounded is carried out at the Advanced Bearer post unless very urgent. This post should, however, be fitted up very like a large R.A.P. and should beclearly labelled. Hereabouts will be the place where the squads ofB stage takeall the stretchers fromA stage. From here downwards the steady stream of loaded stretchers descends while the empty ones ascend. In our sector the route was down a deep nullah but later it proved too dangerous and a broad trench was cut which might have been improved if it had beenroofed in. The empty stretchers pass up the ascending stretcher trench and then by cross trenches reach the various R.A.P's. These cross trenches are generally the old fire trenches and are consequently traversed which factmakes them unsuitable forstretchers. As the traverse trench may at some future time again become a fire trench it obviously cannot be altered. I should therefore advise making at the earliest opportunity fresh cross trenches, one set used for going fromeast to west (right to left) and the other in the reverse direction. It was generally in the traversed trenches where we experiencedmost difficulties and oftenthe stretcher had to be lifted at arms length right out of the trench in order to get past the traverses. This led to increased exposure of the wounded to bullets.

The next halt is at the "Advance Dressing Station" already alluded to. One Tent Sub­ Division of a Field Ambulance is stationed here and the third telephone instrument is installed in this station. As faras possible the position is protected from bullets but it has been foundthat in view of the exposed state of the whole Peninsula an amount of labour and material beyond the resources of the division are necessary to make each Dressing Station shell-proof The wagons come as far as this and the two Medical Officers here superintend the placing of the stretcher cases into the wagons. The equipment of the Tent Sub Division allows of urgent operations being done here such

1641. as the releasing of tourniquetswith tying of arteries, the readjustment of dressings and the application of splints. As many urgent cases as possible are attended to and the main dressing station is kept informed by telephone of the work done and the number of patients coming through.

At each of these halts a record is kept so as to safeguard as far as possible, that every patient canbe traced.

The next halt, and the last telephone instrument areat the "Main Dressing Station" and here a well equipped receiving room, dressing room, and a discharge room have been formed. Many of the patients require no furtherattention, others aregiven a good cleaning up and throughout the time that the patient is in the hands of the Medical Unit the object strived at is to treat the wounds as early as possible with efficient antiseptics. Tetanus antitoxin is administered to all suitable cases, and all cases sufferingfrom shock arekept deeply under morphia during transport. From the Main Dressing Station the wagons carry the patients to the Casualty Clearing Station whence they are embarked as rapidly as possible.

I should here mention that it would have beenvery helpful if our Medical telephone wire could have been carried on to the Casualty Clearing Station, but I understand there are technical difficultiesin placing more than fourinstruments on more than one wire.

At every Dressing Station there were enormousnumbers of flies. The wounded were covered in flies and we decided to make every effortto prevent this. We therefore obtained large quantities of mosquito netting and entirely closed in all the various shelters used forthe patients. This was a great success and it is worth placing on record that a ready supply of mosquito muslin is important under conditions of active service similar to these.

Another point is the terrible thirst from which most of the wounded suffer. When I knew of an action about to tale place I instructed the C.O's of Field Ambulances to purchase all the lemons they could. We then served out slices of lemon to the wounded to suck. We had plates of sliced lemon at the R.A.P's and at the Dressing Stations and the patients appreciated this very much.

The special feature of the R.N.D. medical stores is the widely distributed and readily available first-aid treatment. First aid haversacks of a special patternequipped with a large dredger ofBoro-salicylic acid and plenty of First-fieldand Shell dressings with various other usefulaccessories have been found extremely valuable and every Medical Officer has a special M.O's haversack containing a bottle of concentrated Hypodermic solution or Tartrate of Morphia (the fact that this is ready in solution has proved a great success), tins of Tetanus antitoxin and antisepsis ampoules (not found usefulexcept in the dressing stations) and a large supply of tubes of Antiseptic paste, an extremely good improvement on Iodine treatment. The frequentapp lication of iodine followedby the dressing with cyanide gauze, the practice of the Army medical authorities, leads to blistering aroundthe wound, sticking of dressings causingmuch shock during redressing and too weak and too superficial antisepsis. The paste has obviated all of these bad results and it is to be ref:,>rettedthat record will not be available to pring out these points. 1642. The R.N.D. Medical Unit has dressed such a large number of wounded fromother divisions and the fact that the labels are removed frompatients when they reached hospital, it seems unlikely that any clear statistics will beavailable. I would advocate that a man's label should always be retained with all the records of his case and sent on with him where ever he is dischargedor at all events reserved for reference.

As regards the regular Army Medical Stores formingthe mobilisation equipment of a division certainpoints have struck me.

1) The Ordnance panniers A.B.C.D.E.F.G and H. areexcellent.

2) I do not think the Field Fracture box is suitable for the field. In fact, light wooden splints such as the sets ofListon's long splints are more handy and much cheaper. A small saw might be supplied with them and shorter splints could be made by cutting them up. The Field Fracture box seems more suitable for places where there is more time available, and to my mind, in the present position, the Hospital ships would be the right place forthem.

3) Certaindrugs or classes of drugs are conspicuously absent, such as (a) some easily administered tonic such as tabloids ofEaston's Syrup or Arsenicand Strychnine or Fellow's Syrup ofHypophosphites. The wantof something of this sort was much feltwhen we had largenumbers of Officers and men sufferingfrom lassitude and generally depressed health following upon diarrhoeaor other exhausting condition. (b) Sulphur ointment or some such remedy forScabies (c) the amounts of Sulphate of Magnesium and Caster Oil are too small in proportion to the other contents of the Field Medical panniers. These two drugs were very largely used in treatment of the very prevalent diarrhoea.

4) The Commanding Officerof all my Field Ambulances are ofthe opinion that an Auriscope andan Ophnalmoseous would be useful additions to the outfit. I think that the CasualtyClearing Station is the place for these and M.O's could personally take their patients andexamine them there when there was any special examination required.

5) During the present campaign I have frequentlybeen called upon to move a Field Ambulance without any transport and each time I have had to plan out what shall be taken and what left. This matter should have been carefully dealt with during the leisure peace time.

Arthur Gaskell Fleet surgeon R.N. & 14/8/15. A.D.M.S. of R.N. Division.

Reference:- Public Record Office,Kew. W095/4290.

1643. WESTERNFRONT

THE GREEN ESTAMINET

By Sub Lieutenant A.P. Herbert, Hawke Bn.

The old men sit by the chimney-piece and drink The good red wine And tell great tales of the Soixante-Dix to the Men from the English line, And Madame sits in her old arm-chair and sighs To herself all day - So Madeleine serves the soldiers in the Green Estaminet.

For Madame wishes the War was won and speaks Of a strange disease, And Pierre is somewhere about Verdun, and Albert on the seas; Le Patron, 'e is soldat too, but long time prison­ nier - So Madeleine serves the soldiers in the Green Estaminet.

She creeps downstairs when the black dawn scowls and helps at a neighbour's plough, She racks the midden and feeds the fowls and Milks the lonely cow, She mends the holes in the Padre's clothes and Keeps his billet gay - And she also serves the soldiers in the Green Estaminet.

1644. The smoke grows thick and the wine flows free And the great round songs begin, And Madeleine singsin her heart, maybe, and Welcomes the whole world in ; But I know that Lifeis a hard, hard thing, and I know that her lips look grey, Though she smiles as she serves the soldiers in the Green Estaminet.

But many a tired young English lad has learned his lesson there, To smile and sing when the world looks bad, ''for, Monsieur, c'est la guerre." Has drunk her honour andmade his vow to fightin the same good way That Madeleine serves the soldiers in the Green Estaminet.

A big shell came on a windy night, andhalf of The old house went, But half of the old house stands upright, and Mademoiselle's content; The shells stillfall in the Square sometimes, But Madeleine means to stay, So Madeleine serves the soldiers still in the Green Estaminet.

A. P. Herbert.

The GreenEstaminet was published in 'The BomberGipsy' by Methuen & Co Ltd. In 1919. I thank A.P. Watt Ltd on behalf of Crystal Hale and Jocelyn Herbert for permission to reproduce this poem. * * * * * *

1645. WESTERNFRONT

REPORT ON OPERATIONS 27th SEPTEMBERto 2°d OCTOBER 1918.

BATTLE OF CANAL du NORD.

Once again I have left in the map references to allow an in depth study of these operations.

17th September 1918.

th A conferencewas held at X:VIl Corps Headquartersat 2.30. pm. 17 S1tember which was attended by the Divisional Commanders, and G.S.O's 1. ofthe 52", Sih & 63rd Divisions. The Corps Commander outlined the plan of an attack which was to take place at anearly date. The general idea of the attack was:-

(A) The Canadian Corps were to attack north ofthe CAMBRAI-BAPAUME ROAD with a view in the firstinstance of capturing BOURLON WOOD and the CANAL DE LA SENSEE.

(B) The XVIICorps to attack fromthe neighbourhood ofMOEUVRES and tum the HINDENBURG SUPPORT LINE fromthe north and establish itselfin the first instance on the general line GRAINCOURT-ANNEUX.

(C) The VI Corps to attack the HINDENBURG SUPPORT LINE frontally and thence the FLESQUIERES-RIDGE. The turning movement of the XVIICorps was primarily intended to make the frontalattack ofthe VI Corps possible.

r The 52"d Division was to carry out the first stage, the 63 d (RN) Division the second stage, and the 5?1h Division was to be in Corps Reserve.

rd d The task of the 63 (RN) Division was to pass through the 52" Division north of MOEUVRES on the general line CANTAING-FONTAINE. This meant the Division squeezing through a gap 350 yards wide betweenthe North of the village and the right of the Canadian Corps.

However, some days later the role of the 63rd (RN) Division was altered and amended orders were issued :-

190th Infantry Brigade was to cross CANEL DU NORD and secure the spur running S. W. fromBOURLON WOOD. l 88th Infantry Brigade was to "leap frog"the 190th on the Red Line and capture GRAINCOURT-ANNLUX Spur whilst 2 Battalions of 190th Brigade mopped up the HINDENBURG SUPPORT LINE.

1646. 189th Infantry Brigade to be prepared to assist or take over the tasks of either the 190th or 188th Brigades should this prove to berequired.

Later in the day instructions regarding the move to the concentration area, the pooling and allotment of Stokes Mortars, were issued to all concerned.

24th September 1918.

Information was received from the XVII Corps that 3 supply tanks would be allotted to the 63rd (RN) Division and instructions regarding their moves were issued accordingly. During the day Commanders hadan opportunity of reconnoitring the approaches from the Concentration to Assembly areas. The preparation and marking of tracks from the Concentration to the Assembly areas was undertaken by the 14th Worcester Regiment (Pioneers), and Field Companies R.E. on the nights of the 24/25111, 25/26th and 26/27th September.

25th September 1918.

Informationwas received fromthe XVII Corps that the Field Artillery detailed in G.O. 100 of the 23rd would come under the orders of the 63rd (RN)Division at noon on the 26th.

At Zero, the Brigade Brigadiers of 156th InfantryBrigade and 190th InfantryBrigade and O.C. 63rd Battalion M.G.C. would occupy joint Headquartersat E. 19.a.2.8. The Brigadiers of 188th and 189th InfantryBrigades and G.O.C. 40th Divisional Artillerywere to establish their Headquarters at E.13.d.0.8.

When the B.G.C. 189th InfantryBrigade moved fromE.13.d.0.8. the O.C. 63rd Battalion Machine Gun Corps was to accompany him to E.15.d.O.O.

Instructions regarding the action of the 6 Mark V Star Tanks were issued

Information was received fromthe XVII Corps that "Z" day would be 27th September and all concerned were informed accordingly.

In the course of the day it became apparent that it would not be possible forthe right battalion, 190th InfantryBrigade, to assemblein the area eastofMOEUVRES, as had been originally intended. Instructions were therefore issued for an alteration of the assembly place, and fora Stokes Mortar Barrage to be opened at Zero and to continue till Zero plus 15 minutes, under cover of which the battalion was to creep forwardand pick up the Artillery barrage.Arrangements were made forthe withdrawal of the posts foundby the 52nd Division east ofMOEUVRES.

At 10 a.m. the 63rd Battalion Machine Gun Corps moved fromB.8. and arrived in D.9.o.7.9. at 11.15 p.m. The move ofl89th lnfantryBrigade Group fromB.2.and 3. To D.15.b.6.8. was completed by 11 p.m.

26th September 1918.

Instructions were received from the VXIICorps that Zero Hour would be 5.20 am. on the 27th September, and all concerned were informedaccordingly. 1647.

At 10 a.m. 190th Infantry Brigade Group leftB.6. and 11 for D.14.a. and b. and concentrated there by 12.15 p.m. Watches were synchronised at Divisional Headquarters.

At 10.10 a.m. orders forthe move oflnfantryBrigades and the Machine Gun Battalion from the concentration to assembly areaswere issued.

The 63rd (RN) Division was to be East of the North and SouthGrid Line D.17-18 by Zero Minus one hour, and south of the west and east Grid Line D. 16-22 by Zero minus 2 hours. The 52nd Division was to besouth of the west and east Grid Line by 11 p.m. and the 57th Division was to move at Zero minus 4 hours by the northernand central routes, so as to reach the north and south Grid Line D. 17 - 18 by Zero minus one hour. The arrangements for this march and the time of the move of the various Brigade Groups were made between the Divisional Staffconcerned.

The 188th InfantryBrigade leftT.30.c. at 2.30 p.m. and were concernedat D. 7. C. and 8. C. BY 5.30. pm.

At 5.pm. Divisional Headquarters opened at D. l 7.a8.2. Advanced Divisional Headquarters of 57th Division were also established at this point, in order that the Divisional Commanders might keep in close touch with one another during the course of the operations.

The task of getting up sufficient Stokes Mortar ammunitionfor this weapons bombardment of the area between MOEUVRES and the Canal was lightened by utilising the 3 supply tanks to transport bombsto E. 19.o. whence they were distributed by hand to the T.N. positions. In all some 6,000 rounds were carriedforward.

Advanced Headquarters of the 52nd Division were established at D. 28.b. 1.7. at 6 pm.

At 6.30. pm. Advanced Headquartersof the 211d Division opened at J. 10.c. 3.1.

At 7.40. pm. Headquarters of l 90th InfantryBrigade and the Machine Gun Battalion opened at E. 1.a.2.9. and Headquarters of the 188th and 189th Infantry Brigades, opened at E.13.d.0.8. at 8 pm.

From prisoners captured, it was ascertained that though the enemy were apprehensive of anattack, nothing definitewas known. A relief was expected. In point of fact it subsequently turned out from orders captured during the course of the operations that the Germans had intended to attack and capture MOEUVRES on the 2?1h September.

At 11.50 pm. l 901h InfantryBrigade moved by the Northernand Central Routes to their assembly positions E. 14 a. and c. E. 20.c. where Brigade arrived almost two hours before Zero.

27th September 1918.

188th Infantry Brigade and 2 Companies of Machine Gun Battalion followed 190th Infantry Brigade by Northern and Central routes to assembly positions in E. 13.c. and arrived there at 4.15 am. 1649. 1650. f!j-...... � ...,� � At 2.20 am. 189th InfantryBrigade moved by SouthernRoute to assembly position in E. 19.c., E. 25 a and c. which was reached by 4 am.

Shortly beforeZero all units reporton their arrival being in their allotted assembly positions. The approach marchwas rendered difficultby reason ofthe rain and darkness. Although there was some slight shelling ofMOEUVRES by enemy Trench Mortars during the course of the night, the assembly of all units of the Division was not interrupted and effectedwithout incident. Posts of 52°d Division withdrew.

At 5.5 am. the barrageopened and operation began. Within 15 minutes ofZero all lines were cut by enemy shell fire and communication by visual was much obscured by smoke.

The battalions ofthe 190th Infantry Brigade startedoff well and the CANEL DU NORD was successfullycrossed.

th The 4 Bedford Regiment had stifffighting on the banks of the canal. A number of prisoners and six Field Guns were taken by them beforereaching ROUND TRENCH. The 7th Royal Fusiliers kept in touch with the lOth Canadian Infantry Brigade on their left and reached their objective up to time.

The 1 st Artists Rifles, mopping up as they went forward,caught up the barrage (as arranged) as it pivotted, andreached their objective successfully.Meanwhile as the 52°d Division were not at firstsuccessful in crossing the Canal, BattalionHeadquarters of the 4th BedfordRegiment went to the assistance oftheir centre company and in conjunction with them captured three officersand 65 other ranks.

At 5.30 am., following l 90th InfantryBrigade, the 188th Brigade moved fromassembly positions to the jumping offline.

At 6.45 am. the news was received that our troops could be seen crossing the Canal in E.14.d. without opposition. This news wasconfirmed 5 minutes later by the 4th Canadian Division who reported that Tanks followed by Infantry had been seen within 400 yards of QUARRY WOOD. The right Brigade 52°d Division reached BAPAUME - CAMBRAI RO AD aboutthe same hour. By 7 am. the 188th Infantry Brigade was over the CANEL DU NORD which was dry and crossed without difficulty. Two tankswhich accompanied this Brigade got stuck and took no part in the attack.

At 7 am. B.G.C. 189th Infantry Brigade ordered the Brigade to move to E.21. east of the CANEL DU NORD. These orders, however, were not received until 8,25 am owing to heavy shelling and the Brigade actually moved offat 8.40 am.

At 7 .10 am. the leading troops of5i h Division started according to plan, but were instructed not to get involved in the fighting east ofMOEUVRES unless the situation was favourable.

At 7 .25 am the Divisional Commander ordered the l 89th Brigade to support188 th Brigade and to move to E.21 central. As already stated, the B.G.C. 189th Brigade had anticipated this order and issued instructions accordingly.

1651. The barrage liftedat 7.55 am and the advance of the 188th Brigade on the GRAINCOURT_ANNEUX SPUR :from the pre-arranged jumping offline began. In getting up to their jumping offline, the l 88th Brigade was :frequentlychecked by Machine Gun fire and it found the necessity for mopping up certain nests of gunners. No difficulty was experienced in dealing with them.

At 8 am information was received that the Guards Division had reached their first t objective and that the 1s Canadian Division had also gained theirs.

t At 9.30 am the 1 s Brigade of the Guards Division reported all Objectives taken.

Reports were also received that the troops of the 63rd (RN)Division and 4th Canadian Division could be seen streaming over the ridge in E. 22 and E. 28 and that the whole attack seemed to be going well.

At 9.45 am. The l 90th Brigade was reported as having reached the firstobjective.

The Divisional Commander and the G.S.0.1. went forwardabout 9.30 am to get in closer touch with the situation and the Report Centre was eventually established at E.21.b. 4.6. about 10.45 am.

Headquarters 188th Brigade closed at E.13.d.0.8. and opened at E.22.a.6.5. at 10.40 am.

Between the hours of 10 and 11 am, it was definitely ascertained that the two battalions of the 190th Brigade and Units of the 52nd Division detailed to "mop-up" the HINDENBURG SUPPORT LINE were held up by Machine Gun fire.As soon as the leading battalion of the 1 ggth Brigade passed through, the l 90th Brigade came under heavy fire fromMachine Guns in E.28.d. and E.28.a. and the FACTORY. An attempt was made to outflank and attack the FACTORY, but aftera hand to hand struggle in this FACTORY, the party of the Anson Battalion which had entered it was compelled to withdraw to the positions taken up by the remainder of the battalion in E.23.

The Royal Marineson the left of the l 88th Brigade pressed forward until the firefrom the FACTORY and ANNEUX checked their furtheradvance.

The 2°d Royal Irish Regiment rendered invaluable assistance as soon as the leading battalions of the 188th Brigade were checked.

Headquarters l 90th Brigade moved to E.22.a6.5. where H.Q. 188th Brigade were already established.

Meanwhile the Drake and Hawke Battalions of the 189th Brigade had beenordered forwardastride the SUNKEN ROAD. E.22.b. and the Hood Battalion to the neighbourhood ofE.22.a. Of the two formerbattalions one was directed on the HINDENBURG SUPPORT LINE and GRAINCOURT and the other to capture the FACTORY.

At 10.45 am the German Artillery was evidently withdrawing, but pockets of Germans in front of the 52nd Division and 190th Brigade still impeded our advance and hostile aircraft continued to be very active on the advancing infantry. 1652. About this hour the situation in front of the 52°d Division and East of the CANAL DU NORD not being clear, telephonic instructions were received fromthe XVII Corps that afterthe 63rd (RN) Division had taken the RED LINE, they should turntheir attention to "mopping up" and the area LEOPARD AVENUE and K.4.a. in conjunction with the 52°d Division. As LEOPARD AVENUE was already in the possession of the 52°d Division no action was taken, by the 63rd (RN) Division to comply with the instructions mentioned above.

The 4th Canadian Division reported the capture of the GREEN LINE at 11.20 a.m. and the 52°d Division also reported the capture of all ground east of the CANEL DU NORD between the MOEUVRES - GRAIN COURT ROAD and the BAPAUME - CAMBRA! ROAD.

Germans were still holding out at 11.20 am in DUCK ALLEY and WALLABY TRENCH and considerably impeded our advance.

Headquarters of 188th Brigade moved to E.22.b.2.7.

About 12.30 pm information was received that the 12th Canadian Brigade was on the BLUE LINE and that BOURLON WOOD was believed to beentirely in their hands.

At 1 pm the situation was as follows :-

The right of the 63rd (RN)Division was help up at the FACTORY E.29.a, E.28.b. and d., K.4.b. From thence the line rannorth east round the outskirtsof the FACTORY, joining up on our leftwith the Canadians on their objective. The FACTORY was still strongly held by the Germans and large numbers of prisoners had been reported taken.

As the second attempt to capture the FACTORY andground in E.28.b. and d., K. 4.b. had failed, the FACTORY, GRAINCOURT and HINDENBURG SIPPORT LINE south of DUCK ALLEY were subjected to a steady bombardment by Field and Heavy Artillery from1.15. to 2.15.pm. Two tanks were obtained and sent to the assistance of the 1 g9th Brigade.

The t1d Division Headquartersclosed at J.10.a.3.l. and opened at J.18.d.3.6.

At 2.15 pm the attack was resumed by the l 88th Brigade assisted by the l 89th Brigade and was immediately successful. The enemy's resistance collapsed and the FACTORY together with 11 guns, numerous prisoners and Machine Guns were taken by 3 pm.

At 2.20 pm the 11th Canadian Brigade was ordered to capture FONTAINE fromthe north. The northernhalf of the BOURLON WOOD was reportedclear of the enemy.

Anson, Drake, and Hawke Battalions, afterheavy hand to hand :fightingin GRAINCOURT TRENCH, took GRAINCOURT.

The Royal Marine Light Infantry and Hawke Battalion captured ANNEUX and the GRAINCOURT - ANNEUX SPUR.

1653. Anneux Factory in E 29a near the Cambrai to Bapaume Road. From the Marines Museum, Reference:- 7/17/5 (9)

I would like to thank the Archivist Matthew Little for making the reproduction of the three photographs in this article possible.

1654. Our final objective was secured about 4 pm.

At 3.45 pm the leading Brigades of the 5?1h Division were ordered to move round the northern flank of the 63rd (RN) Division and advance on CANTAING (GB.430). 170th and l 72°d Infantry Brigades (5?1h Division), after consultation with the Divisional Commander of the 63rd (RN) Division, arranged to adhere to the original plan of advance pending the arrival of the G.O.C. 3?1h Division and set their Brigades in motion accordingly.

The 188th Infantry Brigade Headquarters close at E.22.a. 6.5.

Orders for Brigades to reorganise were issued at 4 p.m.

188th Infantry Brigade on the BROWN LINE. 1g9th Infantry Brigade in the vicinity of the FACTORY. l 90th Infantry Brigade on the RED LINE.

Front Line Transport was ordered to join them forthwith;

At 5.15 pm the Corps Commander informed the Divisional Commander that there would be no move for the 63rd (RN) Division on the night 27th/28th. The Divisional Commander replied that he was prepared to continue the pursuit if required, and that he had one Brigade in handand ready for the task should the Corps Commander decide to push on the 63r�

By 5.30 pm reorganisation in depth was well under way and reported complete by 6.45 pm.

At 6 pm the 4th Canadian Division Headquarters opened at D. 12.d.9. l.

At 6.30 pm the enemy was reported to be massing in front of ANNEUX for counter­ attack.

Between 6.30 and 7.30 pm the "S.O.S." was fired on the fronts held by the 1881h Infantry Brigade, 5?1h Division and the Canadian Corps along the GRAINCOURT -ANNEUX SPUR.

The Protective Barrage, aided by Machine Gun fire and Rifle fire broke up any enemy attempts to counter-attack.

By 7.30 pm all was reported quiet. Supplies of foodand ammunition were pushed forward as soon as the situation permitted.

At 10 pm orders were received from the XVII Corps for the 57th Division to capture the crossing over the CANAL DE L'ESCAUT on the 28th. Zero was fixed at 5.15 am. (GB.439)

Orders were issued to all concerned at 11.15 pm. (G.734).

1655. At 11.50pm XVII Corps orders regarding the movements of Field Artillery Brigades was received. Pioneers and Field Companies were ordered to move to E.28on the 28th.

As a result of the day's operations the HINDENBURG SUPPORT LINE had been pierced and the way opened for the advance on CAMBRAI. A large number of men and material had been captured.

2sth September 1918.

The role of the 63rd (RN)Division on the 28th September was as follows :-

Afterthe 57th Division had advanced throughthe BROWN LINE on to the BLUE LINE, the 63rd (RN)Division was to move through the 57th Division when the latter Division had captured the high ground in A. 26.d. and the trenchesin A. 19.d. and A. 20.c. and d.

The Headquartersat the 57th Division had closed at D.17.a.8.2. andopened at E.28.b.3.5. at 2 am.

Headquartersof the 188th and 1g9th InfantryBrigades were at E. 22.c.2.2 and Headquarters of 190th Infantry Brigade at E.22.a.6.5.

Advanced Divisional Headquarters closed at E.21.b.4.6. and opened at the FACTORY E.29.a at 7 am. where they remained until 6 pm.

The advance of the 5?1h Division commenced at 5.15 am in accordance with the plan.

At 7.30 am the Divisional Commander was ordered to join the G.O.C. 57th Division at his Headquarters so as to keep in close touch with the situation.

15 minutes later instructions were received fromthe XV1I corps that the Division was to be prepared to pass through the 5?1h Division when ordered (GB.449). Should this movement take place the 62°d Heavy Artillery Group was to beaffiliated to the 63rd (RN) Division. (R.228).

The 188th Infantry Brigade was ordered to concentrate in E.29.d and E.30.a.b.c and d.

About 9 am informationwas received that the 57th Division had secured the BLUE LINE and hadbeen ordered to seize the crossing and to establish Bridge Heads eastof the CANAL DE L'ESCAUT. On completion of this task the 63rd (RN) Division was to encircle CAMBRAI fromthe south, seize the easternexits and commanding ground east of CAMBRAI. The 189th Infantry Brigade, with two companies of the 63rd Battalion M.G. Corps, New Zealand and 93rd Army Brigades RF.A. were accordingly detailed as Advanced Guard to move on GRAINCOURT and CANTAING followedby the 188th Brigade, 2 companies of the 63rd Battalion Machine Gun Corps and 190th Infantry Brigade. (GM. 17. Appendix 5). Shortly afterwards informationwas received that the two Brigades of the 2°d Division had reached NINE WOOD. L.10 and L 4.

1656. At 9.45 am instructions were received fromthe XVII Corps that the passage of the 63rd (RN) Division through the 57th Division would be arrangedbetween G.Os. 0. concerned and that the Corps mounted troops would come under the orders of the 63rd (RN) Division when that Division had passed through the 57th Division. (GB. 450). The concentration of the 1881h Infantry Brigade mentioned above was complete by 10 am.

At 10.15 am the l89 th Infantry Brigade commenced to move. The Drake Battalion on the right, and the Hood Battalion on the left, each with one Machine Gun Company attached were directed north andsouth of ANNEUX, respectively. The Hawke Battalion, and two Field Artillery Brigades formed the Guard advancing via BRAIN COURT and CANTAING.

As soon as it was ascertained that the 57th Division had not secured the crossing over the CANAL DE L'ESCAUT, instructions were issued for the 189th InfantryBrigade not to proceed furthereast than the general line, L.3.a., F. 26.d., with Artillery about L. l.b., F.29.d. The 188th Infantry Brigade remained along the GRAINCOURT-ANNEUX SPUR andthe 1901h Infantry Brigade astride the BAPAUME - CAMBRAI ROAD near the FACTORY.

By 12.15 pm the Drake Battalion had reached F.28. central, Hood Battalion F.21.b. andd., Hawke Battalion and Brigade Headquarters 189th Infantry Brigade, the valley between CANTAING and CANTAING MILL and Artillery Brigade were halted slightly further west.

Some men of the 2"d and 57th Divisions were reported across the Canal, the 189th Infantry Brigade was ordered at 1.30 pm to push forwardand secure the high ground in A.26.d. As, however, the l 70th Infantry Brigade was nor certain of the position of its troops on the Canal, this advance was delayed until further information could be obtained.

At 3 pm. on the arrival of the Divisional Commander at 189th Infantry Brigade Headquarters at CANTAING MILL and acting on the instructions fromXVII Corps (GB.4) orders were issued forthe 189 Infantry Brigade and attached troops to cross the CANAL DE L'ESCAYT and the Corps1h Cavalry were directed to move on CAURIOR to close the routes leading east and south east of CAMBRAI. The 188th Infantry Brigade was to move at 3.30 pm to the area occupied by 1891h Infantry Brigade and the 1901h Infantry Brigade was directed to L.3. central.

Aeroplane reports tended to show that the enemy held the line south and east of the CANAL lightly and that troops of the 2"d Division had already crossed to the easternbank of the CANAL.

At 2.30 pm the 2°d Division Headquarters closed at J. 18.d.3.6. and opened at L.13.c. l.3.

At 3.30 pm information was received that NOYELLES had beentaken by the VI Corps.

At 4 pm the Drake Battalion started for CANTAING MILL. The Hood Battalion began to makeits way down through LA FOLIE WOOD and the Hawke Battalion moved towards F. 28. Central.

1657. 11 At 4 pm the 2 d Canadian Division H.Q. opened at E.4.a.6.1. l 891h InfantryBrigade Headquarters were established at F.28.a.8.2. with a Report Centre near the LOCK. At this hour the BRIDGES at L.18. and 12. were reported intact.

At 4.30 pm the l 88th Infantry Brigade Headquarters opened at CANTAING MILL, F.26.d.75.50.

By 5 pm Advanced Divisional Headquarterswere established at L.1. c.6.8.

Information was received at 6.20 pm that although a fewmen of the 5]1h Division were across the CANAL, nobody had crossed the RIVER and that the BRIDGE over the CANAL was swept by hostile Machine Gun fire.

The Hood and Drake Battalions were halted in the centreof LA FOLIE WOOD and F.29.a. respectively, whilst the Drake Battalion applied themselves to the task of forcing their way across the RIVER and into LA MARLIERE.

It soon became apparent that it would be impossible forthe Drake Battalion to accomplish this task without further assistance.

All attempts to crossthe LOCK in daylight failed and heavy casualties were incun·ed fromenemy Machine Gun firedirected on the advancing troops fromthe north, eastand south-east.

"C" Company of the Machine Gun Battalion was pushed up to the CANAL BANK south of the LOCK to attempt to neutralise the fire of these enemy Machine Guns enfilading the BRIDGE.

At 7 pm the 188th Infantry Brigade was concentrated in F.22. central, F.28. central, Sunken Road in F.27 c. andL.3.a. and was warned to be prepared to pass through the 1891h Infantry Brigade to the eastern sideif the CANAL DE L'ESCAUT on the morning 1 of the 29° September.

The l 90th Infantry Brigade arrivedat L.2. and Brigade Headquarters were established at L.2.a.8.3. about 8 pm.

11 About 10.45 pm it was reported that3 companies of the 2 Division were across the CANAL at F.29.d.&.2. and a company of the 57'h Divisiond was in the MARCO ING LINE aboutF.30.c.0.4.

Meanwhile the Hood Battalion was progressingslowly eastwards through LA FOLIE WOOD and eventually reached the westernbank of the CANAL about F.23.d.9.7. whence their line ran across the WOOD to the SUNKEN ROAD in F. 23.a.

About 11 pm it was decided that the best position forthrowing a PONTOON BRIDGE across the CANAL wasat F.29.d.5.8. and across the RIVER at F. 29.d. 8.6. These BRIDGES were erected at dawn on the 29th.

1658. The features of this day's fightingwere :-

(a) The confusionof troops about the CANAL DE L'ESCAUT.

(b) The Heavy Machine Gun fireabout the LOCK.

(c) The contradictory reports received and the difficulty of obtainingaccurate informationwith regardto the passage of troops of other Divisions across the CANAL and RIVER DE L'ESCAUT.

( d) The difficulty of arranging any cohesion when passing through LA FOLIE WOOD and approaching the CANAL BANK under heavy hostile Machine Gun fire.

29th September 1918.

An attempt by the Hawke Battalion to get acrossthe MARCO ING LINE and across the BRIDGES laid by the Field Companies failed in the face of heavy enemy Machine Gun fire.

Shortly before dawn two Companies of the Drake Battalion succeeded in establishing a number of Posts across the CANAL and round the semi-circle of the RIVER and Lewis Guns were posted near the LOCK to firenorthwards and keep down enemy Machine Gun fire.

A third company subsequently joined them. Elements of two Platoons actually crossed the RIVER on the remains of a BRIDGE but were unable to advance beyond the RIVER BANK.

The plan of attack forthe 29111 was that the 63rd (RN)Division would continue to try and force the passage of the CANAL and RIVER DE L'ESCAUT about F.30. and 24., whilst the 5ih Division and the Canadian Corps attacked the MARCOING LINE to the north.

The VI Corps on our right was to cross the ST. QUENTIN CANEL

At 5.15 am the line of the 63rd (RN) Division ranas follows:-

F.30.c.- l.O. F. 30.c.0.5. - F. 29.b.7.6. - F. 23.d. 8.2. - F. 23.b.3.3. - F. 17.d.4.l.

By 8 am little progresshad been made. An Artillery bombardmentof the MARCOING front and support lines, LA MARLIERN FARM and harassing fire directed on the area between the CANAL and the RIVER and also across A. 25, and 26. enabled elements of the Hawke and Drake Battalions to capture CANTIGNUEL MILL.

About 10 am as a result of the continued pressure the enemy's resistance really began to weaken and the Drake Battalion established themselves in LA MARLIERE FARM. Two Companies of the Hawke Battalion proceeded to the SUNKEN ROAD in A.26.a. whilst the Hood Battalion enlarged the BRIDGE HEAD in the direction ofF.24 and A.19.d. and finallyreached the trenches aboutA.19, central.

1659. Shortly after10 am the Corps Cyclists Battalion was ordered forwardto L.l.c.7.6. (GM27.)

1h At 11 ambattalions of the 188 Infantry Brigade were ordered to "Stand to" and the Stokes Mortar Battery was sent forwardto assist the 189th Infantry Brigade.

By noon the 189111 InfantryBrigade having established itself east of LA MARLIERE FARM, the 188th InfantryBrigade was ordered to cross the CANAL DE L'ESCAUT, leap-frog over the 189111 Infantry Brigade and attack the high ground in A.26.b. and d.

The 2°d Royal Irish Regiment advanced on the right, the Royal Marine Light Infantry on the left. The Anson Battalion moved to F.28.b. and d. ready to follow the 2°d Royal Irish Regiment.

At 11 pm the 188th Infantry Brigade Headquarters close at CANTAING MILL and staged at F. 28.A. 9. 2.

The two rear companies of the Machine Gun Battalion also "leap-frogged"the two leading companies and in spite of being bombed by low-flyingaircraft en route, arrived at A. 26.d. in timeto catch the retiring enemy.

In face of considerable opposition,the 2°d Royal Irish Regiment, afterpassing through the l89 th Infantry Brigade, established itself 500 yards in advance of its objective, where it was ultimately checked by flanking Machine Gun firefrom FBG. DE PARIS.

The Bridging material of the 52nd Division was placed at the disposal of the 63rd (RN) Division. (GB48 l)

By 1.30 pm the Royal Marine Light Infantry had moved through LA FOLIE WOOD and crossed the CANAL, and by 2.15 pm the Anson Battalion had arrivedin A.25.a. in support.

At 2.40 pm instructions were issued forthe 190111 Infantry Brigade to takeover the positions vacated by the 188th Infantry Brigade and the Brigade moved at 3 o'clock to F.22 central, CANTAING VILLAGE & HILL.

Joint Headquarters of l88 th and 189111 Infantry Brigades were established at F .28.a.9.2. and Advanced Divisional Headquarters moved to F.28.c.9.5. where they opened at 6 pm.

Corps mounted troops, who had been directed on CAUROIR via NIERGNIES & A WOINGT failed to crossthe CANAL & RIVER, and were ordered to rendezvousat NINE WOOD (GM.31).

By 3.30 pm the Royal Marine Light InfantryBattalion had beenchecked on the lineA. 26.central, A.26.a.5.7., A.20.c.4.4. in touch with the Royal Irish Regiment on their right and the Hood Battalion prolonged the line fromA.20.d.and c. to F.18.c.0.7. whilst the Drake & Hawke Battalions were collected in reserve south and north of LA HARLIERE FARM. The Anson Battalion were in support aboutA.25.a.

1660. The joint headquartersof the 188th and 189th Infantry Brigades were established at LA HARLIERS FARM by 4.30 pm.

At 4 pm instructions for the operations to continue of the 30th on the lines indicated on the 28t11 instant were received (GB.484) and instructions were issued accordingly. (GM.32)

At 5.30 pm orders were issued forthe 190th Infantry Brigade to cross the easternbank of the RIVER and move in support of the 188th Infantry Brigade.

The 190th Infantry Brigade crossed the CANAL in the dark and took up the following position:-

Brigade Headquarters LA HARLIERE FARM F.30.a.6.4. 7 /Royal Fusiliers. A.26.a. 1/28 London Regt. (Artists Rifles) A. 26.c. 4/BedfordRegiment. F.30.c.

At 6.30 am the 190th InfantryBrigade was to advance its right directed on AWOINGT & NIERGNIES and its leftalong the Grid Line A. 20.26. Two Machine Guns were to cover the advance.

The 2nd Division on the right and the 57th Division on the left were advancing at the same hour.

The l88t11 Infantry Brigade was charged with covering the leftflank till a Brigade of the 57th Division could get abreast of our leading troops.

The 189th Infantry Brigade was to be ready to move in rear of the 190th Infantry Brigade.

At 6.50 pm orders for regulating trafficacross the CANAL were issued.

About 7.30 pm XVII Corps telephoned to say that the 211d Division was in WAMBAIX and to the north of it and they did not wish the 63rd (RN) Division to shoot into NIERGNIES during the night as the 211d Division meant to try and get into the village.

The features of the day's fightwere :-

(a) The continued pressure at many points along the line of the CANAL & RIVER and frequentattempts to effect a lodgement on the easternbank.

(b) The initiative displayed by the subordinatecommanders and the dash of the troops they led.

(c) The effectof the Machine Gun fireon enemy in MARCOING LINE.

(d) The offensiveArtillery support given to the infantry which was largelydue to the factthat the commanders of the covering Field Artillery Brigades were at Infantry Brigade Headquartersand so could make use of any information as soon asit was received.

1661. ( e) The continued good work of the Field Companies employed on the construction of Bridges under heavy Artillery and Machine Gun fire.

30tb September 1918.

At 4.10 am information was received that the 57'h Division in conjunction with the Canadians, had cleared the MARCOING LINE fromthe BAPAUME - CAMBRAI ROAD to the CANAL at F.24.a. and were advancingin F.18.a.

At 6.30 am the advance of the 190th InfantryBrigade began, the 1st Artists Rifleson the th th right, the 7 Royal Fusiliers on the left,the 4 BedfordRegiment in support and the Anson Battalion attacking the strong point, A.27.a.

The advance of the 190th Infantry Brigade was held up west of the road running through A.27.b. and d. by heavy Machine Gun fire fromthe northand south, nor was anyprogress th made by the Division on either flank.Elements of the 7 Royal Fusiliers did however succeed in crossing the road but were unable to get furtherforward.

Advanced 57'11 Division were at F.15.c.0.2. where they opened at 9 am.

At 10.40 am orders were issued for a renewed attack at 1 pm (0773 Appendix)

The objective on this occasion was the line of the RAILWAY A.28.d.65.00 to A.29.a.0.3. The 5?1h Division was to co-operate on the Northernflank in the direction of the FBG. PARIS.

During the morningthe bridges in F.29 and 30 and LA MARLIERE were suffering heavy shelling and reportswere received fromseveral sources that the enemy were massing fora counter·-attack in G.11. and 17.

At I pm the attack of the 190th InfantryBrigade was launched and again failed owing to heavy Machine Gun fireexcept that the Anson Battalion secured the whole of its objectives.

By 4 pm the 190th Infantry Brigade had takenup a line fromA 27.c.4.2. to A 27.c. 6.7. and the 188th Infantry Brigade had gained its objective in the trench A.20.a. and 21.c.

At 6.10 pm the policy of the followingday was received fromthe XVII Corps (GB 509 Appendix l 0). The enemy was not to be given time to reorganise and the 52nd Division was to relieve the 63rd (RN) Division under arrangements made between Divisional Commanders concerned.

At 7.25 pm our line ran as follows:-

A27.c.5.0. - A.27.c.5.4. - A.27.c. 3.8. - A.27.a.0.0. - A.27.a central. - A.21.c.5.0. - A. 21.c.0.5. - A.20.d.0.3. - A.20.aO.O. A.19.b.7.0.

1662. The 190 InfantryBrigade hold the line south of an east and west grid line through A 27 central, whilst1h the 1881h Infantry Brigade were responsible forholding the remainder of the 111 line in the Divisional Sector, and were in touch with the 57 Division on the left.Two Companies of the 63rd Battalion Machine Gun Corps were withdrawn to the Western Bank of the CANAL.

The boundary between the 63rd (RN)Division and the 57th Division ran as follows:-

A west and east line through F. 24. Central, A 19. Central. A.20 Central-A.21. Central­ A.22.a.1.0. thence along the road through A.22.c. and d. to A.23.c.5.4. andthence via the road to A.23.b.8.0., both roads exclusive to the (RN) Division.

At 8.57 pm orders were received fromthe XVII Corpsfor the transfer of the 2°d New Zealand and 93rd Army Brigades R.F.A. to the 57th Division from1 Opm 301h September.

Arrangements were made for specially vigorous harassing fireduring the night 301h September/I October, special attention being paid to the FBG. DE PARIS in view of the presence of enemyst Machine Guns in that locality.

At 10.50 pm the Divisional Commander was ordered to attend a conference at Corps Headquarters at 9.30 am. 1 October. st By 11.45 pm the Anson Battalion was relieved by the 57th Division.

Afterdark, the Drake & Hawke Battalions were withdrawn to trenches south of LA MARLIERE, while the Hood Battalion continued to hold trenches in F.20 and F.19. on the leftof the 188th Infantry Brigade and in touch with the 57th Division.

The day's fighting was remarkable forthe persistent effortson the part of the 190th InfantryBrigade to make progress eastwards in the face of heavy Machine Gun fire, particularly fromthe FBG. De PARIS.

1 October 1918.

st During the early hours of the morningthe Royal Marine Light Infantry Battalion endeavoured to takethe strong pointin A.27.a. by a bombing attack.

At 6.30 am the parties carrying out this attack were violently assailed by the enemy on all sides and forcedto withdraw to positions about A.27.a.0.5. where they remained forthe remainder of the day.

At 0555 the situation was reported as quiet, the 1st Artists Rifles being in touch with the Brigade on their right about A.27.c.5.0. One of the posts at A 21.c.l.7.was captured by the enemy during the night 30th September/I October. st During the morning arrangements were made for Brigades of the 52°d Division to pass through the 63rd (RN) Division at 17.44 under Artillery barrage.

1663.

At 12.55 instructions were received fromthe Corps regarding the operations at 17.44 (GB.530) and forthe continuance of the advance on NIERGNIES and AWOINGT on the 2nd October by the 5ih Division and 5211d Division.

A jumping off line was arranged for the incoming Division andguides were provided and supporting firearranged.

The Hawke and Drake Battalions withdrew west of the CANAL at 15,45 and subsequently moved to A. 25.

The Hood Battalion withdrew at 22,45 and the orders forthe withdrawal of all battalions of the 188th and 190th Infantry Brigades and companies of the Machine Gun Battalion were issued at 18.04.

Command passed to the 52nd Division at 20.10.

*************************

During the course of the operations the followingGerman Divisions were identified:-

7th CavalryDivision. 49tl1 Reserve Division. 3rd Marine Division. l 8th Reserve Division.

The Following prisoners and material were captured :-

63 Officers 2,138 OtherRanks 5 Heavy Guns 51 Field GW1s 400 Machine Guns 90 Trench Mortars 2 Anti Tank Rifles 2 Anti AircraftRifles

1665. Details of the Casualties suffered are given below :-

Unit. Killed. Wounded Missing Total 0. OR 0 OR 0 OR 0 RR n1 63 (RN)D.H.Q. 2 2 th 188 Brigade H.Q. 4 4 8 181 R.M.Battalion 3 60 10 258 56 13 374 Anson Battalion 1 31 7 193 2 124 10 318 2°d Royal Irish Regt 1 33 6 152 123 7 308 th • 188 T.M.B. 2 2 189th BrigadeH.Q. 3 3 Drake Battalion 2 23 12 205 7 14 235 Hawke Battalion 2 31 8 199 9 10 239 Hood Battalion 21 4 153 7 4 101 th 189 T.M.B. 3 26 3 26 190th Brigade H.Q. 1 1 7th Batt Royal Fusiliers I 28 11 261 54 12 343 4th Beds Regiment 4 25 6 138 20 10 183 1/28 Lon.R. Art Rifles 2 35 9 186 5 11 224 190t11 T.M.B. 5 1 6 Divisional Train 2 2 247th Field Co R.E. 3 4 248tb Field Co R.E. 6 6 249 Field Co RE. 1. 13 13 Signal1h Company 5 3 8 148 Field Ambulance 4 4 th 1491h Field Ambulance 2 5 7 lSOth Field Ambulance 1 9 10 14th Worchester Reg 4 33 37 63n1 Batt M.G.C. 5 23 6 111 11 135 Div. Emp Coy. 1 1 2 ------..-- --

KILLED WOUNDED MISSING CASTOTALS

0 OR 0 OR 0 OR 0 OR

Totals:- 21 328 83 1,978 2 407 106 2,601

1666. The followingcongratulatory messages were sent and received :-

TO 151h TANKBATIALION.

"Most grateful for splendidassistance given this Division by "B" Company's two Tanks to-day under Captain Gibson.

63'd (RN) Division.

FROM CORPS COMMANDER XVII CORPS.

"Well done AAA Reported that German Naval Division is waiting for you on CANAL DE L'ESCAUT AAA WhenGreek meets Greeketc."

1h 1h 1h rd TO 188 , 189 AND 190 INFANTRYBRIGADES. C.R.A., C.R.R. 63 DIV.REAR.

"Following received fromCorps CommanderAAA begins AAA Well done AAA Reported that German Naval Divisionis waiting for you on CANAL DE L'ESCAUT AAA When Greek meets Greek AAA Ends AAA A Division has seldom been set a harder task than you were today AAA After tenhours hard fighting you completely accomplished it AAAA realfine soldierlyperformance."

63nt Divisional Commander.

TO C.O. DRAKE COMMANDER.

Well done again Drake.

63nt Divisional Commander.

FROM 15th TANK BATTALION.

In reply to G.M.13. AAA Your message gratefully appreciatedby all ranks who could not wish for better shipmates.

THE LESSONS OF THE OPERATIONS ARE SUMMARISED AS UNDER:-

l. Air reports re the enemyhav ing vacated certain areas must be treatedwith caution. It frequently happened thatwhen the Infantrywere sent forward to exploit such areas they were immediately met by heavy firefrom GermanMachine Guns. It is obvious that the German MachineGunner had laid low when our Contact Planes were reconnoitring.

2. The Division had profitedgreatly by trainingin semi-open warfarecarried out during its stay in the BAVINCOURT area.

3. Initiative in handling their Units displayedby subordinate commanders was most noticeable and only second to the dash of the soldierin carrying out his allotted task.

1667. 4. Writtenorders were kept as briefas possible. Instructions were issued at Conferences. By these means, if the chain of command is working smoothly, subordinatecommanders and the rank and filerealise thoroughlythe part theyare called upon to play and take a keenerinterest in the operations.

5. On the whole the direction was well kept but constant practice in marching on a compass bearing is essential.

6. The renderingof reports is still a weakness. If thereis not a constant flow of information fromfront to rear it is well nigh impossible for the higher commanders to assist the troops in front.

7. The principle of fire and movement has not yet been properly grasped. After a prolonged period of trenchlife Infantrywere at first apt to rely too much on the Artilleryto cover their advance.

8. The system of employing forward g1ms with Infantry Battalions worked admirably and will be furtherexploited in future operations.

9. The densityof the Artillery barrage at the crossing of the CANAL DU NORD was remarkable, (one 18 pdr. Per 9 yards) yet in spite of it theGerman Machine Gunner still fought his gun to the last.

10. Light TrenchMortars pushed forward with Battalions rendered great servicein dealing with nests of Machine Guns.

11. "Mopping-up" must still be carefully attended to. There were many instances where our advance was impeded by the resolute actionof isolated parties of Germans.

12. Open ground is preferableto trenches as anassembly area, as thetroops get offthe mark quicker andin better order.

13. In comparison with previous operations, communications showed great improvement.

14. Animals sufferedgreatl y fromlack of water. Waterpoints in the vicinity of A.R.Ps were found useful.

15. Tanks are not recommendedfor the carriage of foodand water,which become heated and unpalatable. They were usefullyemployed for the carriage of ammunition.

*************************************************************

Reference:- Public Record Office, Kew ADM/137/3940. MarkedSECRET 63'd (RN) Division No. GA.

5/252. REPORT OF OPERATI ONS "27m SEPTEMBER TO 2ND OCTOBER 1918.

1668. BLANDFORD.

Notes from the Dorset County Chronicle and Somerset Gazette.

The Camp.

12th November 1914.

On Saturday the advance partyof the Naval Brigade, which is to occupy the newly­ erected huts on the Downs, came to Blandford, and a large number of the brigade is expected to arrive some time this week.

Early Closing Order for Blandford.

At the county petty sessions on Saturday Captain Dennis Granville (Chief Constable) brought beforethe Bench the request of the General Officer commanding the district forthe closing of public-houses at nine p.m. in areas near military camps . The officer considered that "forthe good of the defenceof the realm" the houses should be closed at the time specified.At Wool, Wareham, Lulworth and Swanage there are camps. The order had been in force with excellent results at Wareham and other places. Troops were coming shortly to Blandford to camp, and a great number of men was beingemployed on the work at the camp. A little trouble had been experienced already. A number of men would arrive very shortly, as there was a contingent at Portland nearly ready to come. The military authorities had power to close the houses, but they thought it best forthe magistrates to make the order. At Wareham the licence holders welcomed the order. Superintendant Sims stated that some men would arrive that (Saturday) morningand would be billeted in the town.

Mr W.H. Creech, on behalf of the licence holders, said he did not desire to appear in any spirit of opposition, as those holders recognised at the present time that all persons were called upon to make sacrifices.He wished to discuss with the Bench, however, the necessity of the step, and he pointed out the orderly character of the men in training as compared with others who might have been in the district. Aftera short discussion the Bench unanimously agreed to make the order. Captain Granville pointed out that clubs could be kept open til the usual time, but liquor could not be sold after nine p.m.

The order will apply to licensed premises houses within the borough and a radius of six miles. Mr W. H. Wilson appeared on behalf of Messrs. Hall and Woodhouse. The places to which the order will apply are Blandford, Blandford St.Mary, Charlton, Farnham, Pimpeme, Stourpaine, Spetisbury, Tarrant Gunville, TarrantHinton, Tarrant Keynston and Tarrant Monkton.

1669. Blandford Camp, making the roads. This photograph appears to show the Nelson Battalion at work, as they were the first battalion to arrive at the new camp in Dorset. Also, the photograph is by J Nicol a member of this battalion.

From the J. Nicol photographs, Liddle Collection, Brotherton Library, Leeds University.

1670. th 10 December 1914.

Royal Naval Camp:- The Diocesan Board for the Welfare of Soldiers and Sailors is providing an institute at the camp, as is the Young Men's Christian Association. The Board has also arranged forthe Com Exchange to be opened as a recreation room, where the help and interest of all who can assist will be welcome. The lecturehall at the Congregational Chapel has also been opened fora recreation room, and in the evening the National Schoolroom is available as a rest room. On Sunday morning over 1,000 of the men were marched to the town for church parade, a special service being held in the parish church at ten o'clock. The men were accompanied by theirbands, and presented a very smart appearance as they marched through the town to the strain of lively military marches.

Royal Naval Division at Dorchester.

7th January 1915.

On New Year'sDay the people of Dorchester were afforded a new experience in the arrival of 600 men of the Howe Battalion, Royal Naval Division, who have for the last two or three months been in billets at Portland for training. They were on a route­ march, from Portland to Dorchester and beyond to the eastward, andwere billeted for the night in the country town as the firststopping place. - 400 in the Municipal Buildings, the Com Exchange, Town Hall and adjoining rooms and 200 in St.Peter's Institute.

Many of this "noble Six Hundred" had come the day before fromBlandford, where they had had the mixed experience of life in the hutments. But this experience, not altogether pleasant, was paradisecompared with the bad time that large numbers had in Antwerp, in the vain attempt to save that important'leaguered city fromthe Germans. One man said :"We busied ourselves in strengthening the bomb-proof shelters and the trenches dug forus in advance by the Belgians. Our big naval guns, mounted in the armoured train and elsewhere did good work; but we were pounded awfully by hundreds of huge German siege-guns at ranges of seven and eight miles. It was simply hell. Amid the bursting shells we could see nothing and nobody to reply to. It was not war,but slaughter."

Naturally afterundergoing such a baptism of fireas that at Antwerp, the men of the Royal Naval Division were not likely to have their route deferredby the worst of weather. Through huffingwind and raindrops driving with the size and velocity of shrapnel bullets they plugged away afoot from "The Rock" to Dorchester. The most exposed part of the route was along Chesil Bank, where they had to face the fullblast of the snoring sou' wester. It was indeed what our German friendswould call Ein Henkershundundteufelagewitter I Sodden and rather weary, they were not sorry when the friendly shelter of Dorchester had been reached. The marchingcolumns had been preceded by cyclist scouts and messengers and were attended by ponderous baggage waggons laden with surplus kit, bedding, cooking utensils, commissariat, etc. It was interesting to see these waggons unloading at the Municipal Buildings and St. Peter's Institute, where the men in the accommodating fashion of the bluejacket

1671. ashore, made themselves as comfortable as possible . Quantities of loaves of bread were tossed out unceremoniously : and aftertheir 13 mile tramp in such weather the men negotiated with keen appetites the hot meal prepared for them hardby.

Colonel Collins, of the Gordons was in command of the party, consisting of A & D Companies, the other two being on leave. Lord Curzon, the former commandant of the Howe Battalion, is now serving aboard ship. The officersput up forthe night at the King's Arms and Antelope Hotels.

Jack at "The Pictures."

For the amusement of the men during the evening Colonel Collins engaged the whole of the Picturedrome for the first"house", fromseven o'clock till 8.45. It was a sight to see the place thronged with this crowd of cheery, good-tempered sailor lads in khaki. As they came in each man was presented with a packet of cigarettes by Mr. Clarke, the manager, whose act of kindly thoughtfulnessand generosity was much appreciated by the men. Several of the officersattended the show before sitting down to dinner at their hotels. It happened by good luck that the programme was most suitable forsuch a house, including some good nautical and military films which appealed to them. There was a well-conceived picture drama called "Lost in Mid Ocean," the topical was budget, scenes fromthe lifeof Lord Roberts, and satirical sketches of the Kaiser and his Kultur. Great was the roar of derisive laughter fromthe delighted Jacks at the climax, wrought by the magic working cinematograph, when Wilhelm II is reduced to a German sausage, and in that convenient formis swallowed at a gulp by the British Bulldog!

On Saturday morning the men leftDorchester in the direction of Puddletown. They left intwo detachments, the first about nine o'clock and the second an hour later, this being to give the firstlot time to go on ahead and take up a defensive position which the second lot were to attack. Blank cartridge had been served out, and the practice of skirmishing proved instructive. The weather had improved, although the morning's brightness and blue sky proved transient, and some sharp showers fell later in the day.

The Admiralty have just given official leave for 1,000 University and Public Schools Men to serve together as a battalion of the Royal Naval Division. The new corps will be strictly limited to University and Public School men. Those wishing to join should comply with the followingconditions (subject to their passing the necessarymedical examination):-

They must be willing to serve during the period of the war.

Must be betweenthe ages of 18 and 35.

Have a mean chest measurement of 34 inches.

Have a minimum height of five feet and three and a half inches

There are no expenses incurred by recruits, freekits and foodbeing provided by the Admiralty. Men will be paid a the service rate of ls. 3d. a day.

1672. Those wishing to join should apply to the Recruiting Officerat 6, 7, and 8, Old Bond Street, London, W., between10 am. and 5. 30 p.m. daily.

14t11 January 1915.

Military Arrangements.

The military authorities have requisitioned the use of the Union Workhouse for billeting purposesand some 70 men are now quarteredthere. Private Houses generally in the town are being used forbilleting men in connection with the Royal Naval Division, who areemployed at work in connection with the camp.

Military Football and Entertainment.

About a thousand persons witnessed the football match between the Anson and Hood Battalions of the Royal Naval Division on the Recreation ground on Wednesday. The fineband of the Hoods under C.P.O. J. Dow, played a selection of music which greatly enlivened the proceedings. The Ansons proved the better team and won 4 to 0. Mr H. Wheeler was the referee.After the match the players and band were entertained to tea at the Masonic Hall, when the Mayor (Mr S. J. Norman) presided. Cigarettes were handed round after tea and a short time was pleasantly spent. The Mayor welcomed the band and the teams, and hoped that they might see them on many occasions. Thanks were also accorded to Mr. Harry Wheeler for the efficient way in which he controlled the game, andin reply he complimented the players upon the friendly spirit shown betweenthe rival teams. A concert was next held in the Corn Exchange, which had been decorated by Mr. H.G.Bastable, plants being kindly lent by Mr. Sharp.The hall was crammed to suffocationand many were unable to gain admittance. Besides selections by Mr. J. Hammond's orchestra, the programme included items by Miss Marion Adams (contralto), Mrs. Pride (soprano),Mr. J. Stone (humorist), Mr. G. Hunt, Mr. ClarksonMorse (London), Mr J. Syme (Glasgow), Sub Lieut Whale, etc. By request, Miss Adams sang "Your King and County want You," which was followed by "Tipperary." It was a most successfulconcert, and nearly every item was encored. The Misses Paddock and Conyers were efficient accompanists. The Committee who made the arrangements for the match were the Mayor (chairman),Mr. W. J. D. Bishop (hon secretary), Messrs. H. H. Smith, J. Churchill-Coleman, L. Arscott, H. Stickland, H. Wheeler, andE. D. Horsey, whilst Mr. Arthur Conyers was M.C. The proceeds were devoted to a fundfor providing much needed comfortsfor the man at the camp: £20 nett was realised by the effort- a result which must be considered extremely satisfactory.

Christmas With The Interned.

The following is taken from a letter received by Mr.E. G. Walkling from a friend interned in Holland (Groningen) with the R.N.V.R. :- "On Christmas Day we had Divine service at ten a.m., with carols; at noon we were given a blotting pad, box of cigars, cigarettes, and tobacco; 1.15 p.m., dinner, which consisted of soup, turkey and ham, potatoes and cabbage, Christmas pudding and dessert, oranges, apples, nuts, muscatels, almonds and sweets. (See R.N.D issue 13 page 1192 for photograph.)

1673. At five p.m. we had tea with mince pies, cake and white bread (which is unusual), so you see we had a jolly good 'tuck in.' After tea we commenced the fun in our room, and having procured a piano, things became rather lively. Dancing, singing, and ragging generally was the order of the evening.

We had a pleasant surprise about 7.30 p.m. when a Belgian refugee and his wife entered the room, also a Dutch officer and his wife.We felt ourselves much honoured and soon had them seated enjoying the concert, which by the way was quite impromptu. The concert finishedat eleven p.m. and the Belgium National Anthem was played while we all stood at attention. I feltvery sorry for the little Belgium lady, who wept bitterly. Our fourvisitors were very delighted and shook hands with most of us when they departed.

On Boxing Day, at 1.30 p.m.every man mustered andwe marched to the Harmony Hall fora concert. The concert was very good, all in English. Vv'e thoroughly enjoyed our Christmasunder the circumstances, but are looking forwardto spending the next one at home."

th 4 February 1915.

A very successful evening concert was held in the CornExchange on Wednesday. The object of it was to aid the library fundof the Royal Naval Division and Miss Marion Adams, ofShillingstone., as the organiser, is to be congratulated on the success of her efforts. The platformhad been tastefully decorated with plants and flowerskindly lent by Mr.Robert Sharp, while flagswere suspended across the back. At the outset Mr. H. H. Smith apologised for the absence of Mrs. Maurice Bower andMr. Alberto Harvey, who had respectively been announcedto play and sing. The audience was a large one, and in almost every instance the selections were enthusiastically encored. The contributions of Miss Marion Adams were particularlyappreciated, and during the evening she was presented with a magnificent shower bouquet, composed of flowers of the national colours, which had been skilfully arranged by Miss Sharp. MrGeorge Stone of Poole, in his usual capacity of humorous entertainer, maintained his reputation, his contributionsconvulsing the audience with laughter. Some excellent trios were given by the Misses George andTrim (Childe Okeford) and Miss Wells (Hanford). ChiefPetty OfficerStear gave a clever exhibition of club swinging, and other contributions to the programme included Mr. P.R. Wait and Sergeant Batten, andother naval men. The silver band of the Hood Battalion underBandmaster Dow, played several selections, which were very pleasing to the audience, the music being most creditably rendered and of good merit.

11th February 1915.

Variety Entertainment.

On Wednesday evening entertainment was held in the CornExchange The programme which had been arranged by several local ladies and gentlemen, was of good merit, and the proceeds were in aid of the Blandfordrecreation room for the

1674. troops. Among those contributing to the programme were Sub Lieutenant William Denis Browne (pianofortesolo), Mrs de Belleroche, Miss Rita Varian, P.O. Templeman, Sub Lieutenant Whale, Seaman Vidler, and Seaman Jenkins (songs), and Sub Lieutenant Walle (recitations). The entertainment concluded with the performance of the amusing farce. "The Mere Man," in which the parts were taken by several local amateurs, who all played their parts very creditably.

Note:- Please see photograph of Sub Lieutenant William Denis Browne in R.N.D. issue 7, page 537.

18th February 1915.

Entertaining the Naval Division.

With the object of providingentertainment for the naval men, an enjoyable evening was given in the Congregational Lecture Hall on Wednesday, when a lanternlecture, descriptive of the war was given, the explanatory portions being ably given by the Rev. Gomer Evans.

Belgian Distress Fund.

Under the patronage of the Mayor andMayoress and the officersof the Nelson Battalion, R.N.D., a dance was held in the Com Exchange on Wednesday night in aid of the Belgian Distress Fund. The hall had been tastefully decorated with flags and plants kindly lent by Mr Sharp.The music was supplied by the battalion band under Deputy Bandmaster McBrath, and the P.O.'s of the battalion, who organised the dance and did their bestto make it a success. The duties ofM.C.'s were ably carried out by Mr. H. G. Bastable and Mr. HarryWheeler. There was a large company present.

Y.M.C.A. Work Among The Troops.

The Y.M.C.A., which had been doing such a splendid work forthe soldiers in the various camps in the county, has just completed a well-built recreation room for the Royal Naval Division on the Downs, and fullyequipped it will supply a great need. The building is 200 ft. by 30 ft. and the cost forconstruction alone, apart frominternal equipment is £450. It is placed in "C" block at the bottom of the Hood and Howe lines, and Mr D. G. Gunn will bein charge.The institute will be conducted on the usual Y.M.C.A. lines. There is provision for reading, writing, and recreation, and on Sundays there will be religious services. The committee have made every provision formeeting the needs of the men, and even simple medical remedies will be provided. Lord Portman was announced to open the institute yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon, in the presence of principal officers at the camp.

Note:- Please see photographof the Y.M.C.A. recreation room in R.N.D. issue 13, page 1171.

1675. 25th February 1915.

Visit of Mr. Winston Churchill.

A visit was paid to the naval camp by the First Lord on Wednesday. Mr. Churchill showed keen interest in the general conditions and equipment andinspected the men very closely. The inspection was witnessed by a large number of townspeople despite the heavy rain. Afterthe inspection Mr. Churchill visited the officesin East-street and inspectedthe stores opposite the Grammar School, the transportdepartment, and the saddlery and harnessstore. The First Lord and staffpartook of luncheon at the Crown Hotel . On leaving BlandfordMr. Churchill courteously acknowledged the salutations of the spectators.

Messrs Cheery and Son have been appointed the local centre forthe Weekly Dispatch cigarette fund.

Viscount Portman was unable to formally open the Y.M.C.A. building last week owing to an urgent naval order interferingwith the arrangements. The institute has commenced its good work and Mr. Gunn the manager, will be glad to receive subscriptions, as the working expenses are considerable.

It is expected that the greater number of the battalions of the Royal Naval Division will move fromthe camp at the end of the week. Mr. Winston Churchill was expected again on Wednesday. ***********************************

Reference:- Details taken from the copies of the 'Dorset County Chronicle and Somerset Gazette,' held at the British Museum Newspaper Library at Collingdale, London.

1676. 1677. Photographs on the opposite page were taken by Len Sellers in May 1998.

Above:- The entrance to Twelve Tree Copse Cemetery, situated in front of the road that runs fromthe village of Alcitepe, the old Krithia. It continues onto Pink Farm Cemetery, followedby the pathway leading down to the entrance of Gully Ravine. Then, alongside the Aegean Sea to X beach and towards W Beach.

Middle:- View of the higher level area, towards the rear of the cemetery.

Bottom:- View fromthe cemetery towards the entrance to the Dardanelles. One can just make out the Dardanelles with the shore of Asia in the distance, this is near Kum Kale where the France landed on the 251h April 1915. If you look, just to the right of the large tree, you can see, the Turkish Martyrs'Memorial that commemorates all the Turkish dead killed during the campaign. It was built over Eskihisarlik Burnu (Old Fortress Point) to the east of Morto Bay, which is situated just over the skyline.

Please see R.N.D. issue 6, page 494, forthe location map. And page 484 for details of R.N.D. graves.

If you have an article, papers or photographs on any subject concerning the R.N.D. I will be pleased to hear fromyou.

Next issue, number 18 will be published in September 2001.

It will contain :- The experiences of Sergeant Meatyard at Ostend, Dunkirk, Cassell & Antwerp.

Gallipoli :- After nineteen years - Some notes on the cruise of the liner Duchess of Richmond to Gallipoli April - May 1934

Battle of Cambrai - Report on operations 5th to 8th October 1918.

Royal Naval Division Personality. Archibald Walter Buckle. D.S.O. & Three Bars.

Observations and Analyses of Royal Naval Division casualties by Thomas S Muirhead.

The experiences of Joseph 'Lucky Durham' Murray of the Hood Battalion on leave and before the battle of the Ancre in 1916.

And so much more.

If you enjoyed the R.N.D. please tell a friend. Remember all back issues are still available. *************************************

1678. On 19th February 1915 the War Cabinet agreed that troops should be sent to the Dardanelles. On 25th February George V and Churchill went to Blandford, in Dorset, where the King inspected the Royal Naval Division beforeit sailed to Gallipoli. This photograph was made into a postcard forthe troops to send home with a farewellmessage.

Published in 'Churchill A Photographic Portrait' by Martin Gilbert, in 1974 by Penguin Books Ltd. Photograph number 123.

I would like to thank Sir Martin Gilbert, C.B.E, D.Litt. for permission to reproduce this photograph in the R.N.D.

1679.