Army Form C. 2118.
| Place |
Date/Hr |
Summary of Events and Information |
| BASSEUX |
1 |
The 2nd Canadian M.G. Battalion are now in line taken over
from the 3rd (British) Division, and part from the Guards Division. The
line when taken over was in an "obscure" state. It was not certain whether
the GREEN LINE was still held by our forces or the enemy. On the day following
our relief of the 3rd Division the enemy attacked the Guards with 3 Battalions.
The attack was repulsed with great loss to the enemy, who only reached
our trenches in one or two isolated spots, and from these he was speedily
ejected. The Machine Gun defences have been organised as well as can be
done in a few days. Dispositions are as follows. 2 Companies plus eight
other guns are in forward system, 12 guns are in support in the PURPLE
LINE, and 12 Guns in Reserve at BASSEUX. Details of gun positions are as
follows. [App.1 Disp. State]
Work is being done every night to (a) improve positions (b) to stock
positions with 10,000 rounds S.A.A. each, and two boxes of bombs, water,
gun, oil etc. |
|
7 pm |
Enemy aeroplane dropped eight bombs in vicinity of gun positions
at S.5.c.30.05. |
|
9.45 pm |
Word received over telephone that S.O.S. signal observed.
The 14th Canadian M.G. Company were ordered to "Stand To" at once. The
4th Canadian M.G. Company were telephones to same effect also the 5th Company.
The 5th Company's guns were all firing when Lieut Hobson was spoken to
at 10 o'clock. Guns of 4th Company fired 16,000 rounds on S.O.S. Lines.
The 5th Company fired 6,000 rounds. |
|
10.55 pm |
Message was received from the 4th Company "Front is quiet". |
|
11 pm |
"G" Branch Division reported situation normal. The 14th
Company were ordered to 'Stand by' but unhitch horses from wagons. |
|
Through
out night |
The following harassing fire was carried out throughout
hours of darkness:-
4th Canadian M.G. Company:- 9,000 rds.
Roads N.25.b.3.9. to N.26.c.0.8.
Trenches N.20.d
5th Canadian M.G. Company:- 10,000 rounds.
Targets S.6.b.2.3. to S.6.d.1.8.
M.36.a.9.9. to M.36.b.6.4.
S.6.d.00.70. to S.6.b.90.10.
Casualties 1. O.R. Wounded.
Effective Strength this date 43 Officers and 1006 Other Ranks |
|
2 9.00 am |
Col. WEIR, Major BASEVI, and Lieut SALISBURY made reconnaissance
of PURPLE LINE and TELEGRAPH HILL SWITCH. |
|
4.00 pm |
Low flying enemy aeroplane crossing lines M.25.d. to N.13.c.
height about 800 ft. They sailed overhead for 15 minutes during which time
our A.A. Machine Guns fired 1,200 rounds at them. |
|
9.30 pm |
"G" Branch advised that much movement of Germans with packs
on had been observed in N.25.d.9.8. and on road in N.20.A.&B. Orders
at once sent to Os.C. 4th & 5th Companies to fire at least 10,000 rounds
on each target in harassing fire. [App.2
Disp. State]
Casualties 1 Killed 3 Wounded and 1 Wounded accidentally. |
|
3 2 am
to 6 am |
Guns carried out harassing fire as per pre-arranged programme
on the following positions:-
| 2 Guns On Road N.20.c.75.00 to N.20.c.50.40. |
5,500 rounds |
| 2 Guns On Road Junction and Trench N.26.c.00.70. |
5,500 rounds |
| 2 Guns On Road M.36.b.40.45 to M.36.b.80.00. |
5,000 rounds |
| 2 Guns N.36.d.90.90. to M.36.b.60.40. |
1,200 rounds |
| 2 Guns T.1.a.65.40. to S.6.b.85.10. |
700 rounds |
|
Total Rounds Fired |
17,900 rounds |
|
|
6 am |
17 Guns answered the S.O.S. Signal that was seen on left
front. 9,500 rounds in all were fired. |
|
11.45 am |
Operation Order No. 31/81 issued. All positions were re-sected
and guns accurately located on the map. [App.
3 O.O.31/81] |
|
7.00 pm |
A Patrol of the 19th Battalion reported presence of a working
party in "No Mans Land" to Lieut J.A. Ramsay 4th Company. This officer
at once switched two guns on to the target and fired 2,300 rounds into
them. |
|
11.00 pm |
Heavy bombardment of our lines by the enemy, evidently in
conjunction with a counter-attack by the enemy on AYETTE, which was taken
by the 32nd Division on our right this A.M. This bombardment died away
at 1.00 p.m. 4th inst.
Gas shells were fired into Railway cutting at M.21 & 27. Crews
in vicinity wore gas helmets for ½ hour.
During the day Aircraft was inactive owing to poor visibility.
Casualties for the past 24 hours was 2 O.Rs. Killed and 1 O.R. Wounded.
The Other Ranks killed Privates PUDDLE & ELAND were hit by enemy H.E.
shell when working improving the trench.
Pte. WEBB Killed in Action 2nd inst. was buried in BELLACOURT Cemetry
(Map Ref. R.25.c.3.2).
Effective Strength this date 43 Officers and 996 Other Ranks. |
|
4 1.00 am |
Inter-Battalion relief completed. Harassing fire was carried
out between dusk and 11.p.m. 3rd inst. and 2.a.m. |
|
6.00 am |
and 6.a.m. 4th inst. 24,000 rounds were fired on the following
targets:-
M.36.d.9.9. to M.36.b.6.4.
M.36.b.50.55. to M.36.b.80.00.
N.20.c.75.00. to N.20.c.50.40.
T.1.a.65.40. to S.6.b.85.10. |
|
6.35 am |
The enemy laid down a stiff barrage from N.13.Central to
M.18.d.6.0. to M.24.d.6.0. well west of our Front Line. No S.O.S. Signal
was observed but one green flare went up from N.13.c. and one from vicinity
of N.19.c.0.0. Machine Guns opened up a steady rate of fire, but owing
to steadiness of the bombardment as much ammunition as possible was conserved,
in expectation of direct targets. 4,800 rounds were fired before the bombardment
died away. Four guns of the 4th Company are now in Front line N.13.b.05.78.
- N.13.a.90.78. They are supported by bombing posts of one Platoon of Infantry
and 1 Lewis Gun. With considerable difficulty 10 boxes bolted S.A.A. and
three boxes S.A.A. have been carried up to their positions. |
|
5.30 pm |
The 14th Company left BASSEUX to relieve the 5th Canadian
M.G. Company in the line. |
|
6.15 pm |
The following message received from "G" 2nd Canadian Division
"The enemy has attacked in force South of the SOMME today. Prisoners state
that offensive is to be resumed along whole front immediately. It is essential
for prisoners to be obtained tonight, and strong Battle Patrols will be
sent out for this purpose. Brigade in Divisional Reserve will be prepared
to man PURPLE system at short notice. The Machine Gun Company in Divisional
Reserve will move tonight to WAILLY ready to man positions in PURPLE system". |
|
6.20 pm |
Messenger sent on side car to overtake the 14th Canadian
M.G. Company with message that relief is cancelled. All companies in forward
area advised of cancellation of relief. [Appdx.
5. Wire] |
|
7 pm |
Movement Order 28/260 issued. [App.
6 R.F. 28-260] |
|
10.15 pm |
Following wire received from Division "Germans resumed attacks
today against French in neighbourhood of MONTDIDIER and also against our
19th Corps immediately South of the SOMME and are reported to have gained
a little ground. In the event of Germans attacking astride river SCARPE
tomorrow morning units will carry our instructions contained in our Wire
G.5. of today, and in addition will increase patrol activity just before
dawn, to discover whether Germans have parties out to cover assembly of
troops, and will arrange to get information passed back quickly in order
that counter preparations may be put down by our Artillery. 14th Canadian
M.G. Company will man positions PURPLE Line as soon as heavy bombardment
commences The 6th Brigade and 4th Brigade will each detail two Companies
as nucleus of Garrisons and rallying points in intermediate line".
Orders to this effect were immediately forwarded to 14th Company. |
|
10.30 pm |
Harassing fire carried out from dusk till 10.30 p.m. on following targets:-
N.20.b.95.20. to N.20.b.50.90.
N.20.a.20.20. to N.26.b.05.70.
N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.75.
N.20.c.40.75.
29,500 rounds fired in all.
Effective Strength 43 Officersand 2 Other Ranks. |
|
5 1.00 am |
Wire received from Division that prisoner had been captured
by 4th Brigade, whom on examination stated that an attack was eminent on
this front, probably on 6th inst. All is in readiness so no further orders
issued. |
|
2.00 am |
Harassing fire carried out from 2.00 a.m. until dawn on
same targets as from dusk till 10.30 p.m. 4th inst. |
|
5.00 am |
Heavy Artillery fire on front. All crews "Stood To". Many
crews were obliged to wear S.B.R's for about 1 hour owing to gas shells.
Railway cutting in M.21.a. came in for considerable gas. |
|
7.30 am |
Hostile Artillery activity around gun positions started
at midnight died down somewhat. Road running through M.20.d. & c. M.27.d.
& a. heavily shelled with H.E. and gas. Strong concentration of gas
was soon blown away by wind. |
|
9.20 am |
'Phone message received from Division 'G' that S.O.S. signal
had been observed on 1st Canadian Divisional Front (Division on Left).
'Phone message sent immediately to Companies in the line to this effect.
Companies were all acquainted with situation before message reached them. |
|
9.30 am |
Enemy raided Right Battalion Left Brigade at approximately
M.30.b.95.95. with parties about 30 strong. Many casualties were caused
by our fire. Another party of about 100 strong with covering party of about
50 attacked Left Companies of Right Battalion about M.24.B. & D. These
were driven off by M.G. Lewis Gun and rifle fire. 30 dead bodies were counted
in front of our line. |
|
9.55 am |
Wire received that 4th Company had gun put out of action.
Message despatched to Ordnance to this effect and limber at once sent to
fetch new gun to Ordnance. |
|
11.20 am |
Orders issued that reliefs as per O.O. 31-81 be carried
out night 5th inst. |
|
12.15 pm |
Enemy raided Left Battalion of 1st Division with about 100
men. These were easily driven off by Machine Gun and rifle fire. |
|
1.20 pm |
Two situation reports received, in which prisoners examinations
were stated. In both cases prisoners now state that they know nothing of
an offensive on this front. |
|
2.00 pm |
Tripod of 4th Company put out of action by shell fire. Ordnance
requested to supply new one which was done at once. |
|
7-10 pm |
Indirect fire carried out on following targets:-
N.20.b.95.20. to N.20.b.50.90.
N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.75.
N.19.a.20.20. to N.26.c.05.70.
N.20.c.40.75. |
|
Midn. |
Inter-battalion relief as per 31-81 and 31-81/1 completed
by midnight. |
|
6 2-6 am |
Indirect fire carried out on same targets as 7/10 p.m. 5th
inst. Total rounds fired during night 31,500. |
|
1 pm |
The following letter was forwarded to all companies:-
"1. The re-organization of the Machine Gun companies in this Battalion
will be commenced at once.
2. The re-organization will be made as follows:-
No. 1 Company (14th and 5th Coys.) O.C. Major Basevi J.
"A" Battery O.C. Lieut. White L.F. 14th Coy.
"B" Battery O.C. Lieut. Salisbury H.S. 14th Coy.
"C" Battery O.C. Lieut. Hobson G. 5th Coy.
"D" Battery O.C. Lieut. McBurney H.A. 5th Coy.
No. 2 Company (4th and 6th Coys.) O.C. Major Pearce W.M.
"E" Battery O.C. Capt. McCamus J. 4th Coy.
"F" Battery O.C. Lieut. Ramsay J.A. 4th Coy.
"G" Battery O.C. Capt. Millican G.W.F. 6th Coy.
"H" Battery O.C. Lieut. Fleming R. 6th Coy.
3. Transport Officers
Lieut. Cowan P. will act as transport officer No. 1 Company.
Lieut. Millsap W.E. will act as transport officer No. 2 Company.
4. Transport of four companies will be pooled and following re-allotments
made:-
Battalion Headquarters 2 G.S. Wagons; 1 G.S Limbered
wagon;
Each Company 2 wagons, limbered G.S.; 2 Mess Carts; 2 Water
Carts; 1 travelling kitchen.
Each Battery 6 limbers G.S.
5. All ranks must be made thoroughly acquainted with the new establishment.
6. Company Commanders will take up Central Headquarters, preferably
Bde. H.Q. for Battery Commanders. Positions for Battery Commanders will
be reconnoitred at once.
7. Communication must be established between Company Headquarters and
all Battery Headquarters with telephones, and Lucas Lamps where possible.
Batteries to be responsible that communication is kept up.
8. The forward is re-divided so that each company will have 3 Batteries
in the line and one in Divisional Reserve at BRETENCOURT. (See
attached tracing).
9. Locations of Battery Headquarters to be sent to this office by 6
p.m. 7th inst.
10. Date of re-adjustment of sectors to be notified later". |
|
3.55 pm |
E.A. crossed our lines at low altitude engaged by A.A. M.G's.
19000 rounds fired. |
|
7 pm |
Word received that suspected German relief was taking place
in centre sector. Orders immediately issued to all companies to concentrate
as many guns as possible on F.4. and F.5. Zones. (see Zone map).
4th Canadian M.G. Company fired 15,000 rounds on these targets in F.5.
Zone. |
|
7.10 pm |
Following targets were also engaged between dusk and 10.00
p.m.:-
S.6.d.4.8. - S.6.b.90.00.
S.6.b.90.00. - T.1.a.4.2.
M.36.d.9.7. - M.36.b.9.6. Total
rounds fired 29,000.
Prisoner captured night of 3rd/4th. On examination disclosed the fact
that during raid in which he was captured M.G. fire was very effective,
and that nightly harassing fire had caused four casualties on 3rd inst.
during relief. |
|
7 2 am |
Targets as 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. 6th inst. fired upon. Patrols
were sent out 1100 yards by centre sector, so M.G. fire was switched to
Left Centre and Right Centre. |
|
Noon |
Two Low Flying E.A. crossed our lines. Heavily engaged by
our M.G's. One aeroplane returned fire on our gun at M.31.b.5.4. but without
effect. |
|
8.30 pm |
Wire received stating that 1st Canadian Division had perceived
large bodies of Infantry in full packs entering trenches in rear of area
of Left flank Division. Orders immediately issued to Companies to double
harassing fire programme and concentrate on area concerned. [Appendix
8 O.O. 31/102] |
|
9 p.m. |
Operation Order No. 31-102 issued, also letter 61-313. |
|
11.25 pm |
Wire received Gas shells falling M.5.b. Repeated by priority
wire to all Companies. [R.F. 61/313
Appendix 9] |
|
midn't. |
Another wire received of gas being in various vicinities.
23,250 indirect fire carried out on F.4. and F.5. Zones owing to suspected
enemy relief. |
|
8 6 am |
Heavy bombardment of H.E. shrapnel and Gas. Another wire
of Gas falling in various vicinities. 20 shells fell in M.24.a. Thought
to be shorts from our own guns. |
|
7 am |
One E.A. crossed our lines flying at 3000 ft. Engaged by
our M.G's with 200 rounds. |
|
11.30 am |
Two E.A. crossed lines and circled overhead at 2500 ft.
500 rounds were fired at them. |
|
5.30 pm |
Two E.A. flying at 2500 crossed lines. Our M.G.'s fired
550 rounds at them and caused them to return behind Bosche lines. |
|
Dusk till
10 pm |
Very little firing owing to relief. |
|
9 12 am |
15,000 rounds fired on F.2., F.3., and F.4. Zones. Relief
complete at 2.30 a.m. |
|
Dawn |
Birmingham and Bristol Guns received a lot of M.G. Fire. |
|
9 am |
Hostile artillery active until noon on whole area. Guns in BIBLE Group
came in for great amount of gas shelling. Guns at S.5.c.30.10. also shelled. |
|
Noon |
Operation Order received from Division "G" that the 2nd C.M.G. Battalion
is to be relieved on 10th/15th. April. [Warning
Order Appendix 10] D.M.G.O. of 5th Division called to see O.C. Battalion
and arrangements were made regarding details of relief. Warning Order issued
to all companies. |
|
3 pm |
Situation wire received from Division that enemy are attacking with
four divisions, their Southern flank resting on the LA BASSEE CANAL. Orders
were immediately issued to all Company Commanders to visit their respective
G.O.C's. Brigades and show positions of their S.O.S. Lines, etc. [Appendix
11] [Appendix 12] |
|
4 pm |
Our artillery fired short into Glasgow, Bath, and Dublin guns, but
did no damage. |
|
10 pm |
Trench Mortars firing into M.36.a.4.4. for three hours. |
|
10 12 am
- Dawn |
Indirect fire carried out on F.4, 5, and 6 Zones, 42,000
rounds fired. [Appendix 13] |
|
9 am |
Wire received from Division that the relief by 5th. British
Division is cancelled, and that Division will remain in present area. Word
sent to all companies immediately. [Appendix
14] |
|
6 pm |
Word received from Liaison Officer at 5th. Cdn. Inf. Bde.
that German relief is suspected. Instructions were given that Liaison Officer
co-ordinate time of firing and targets with Bde, Major, 5th. Cdn. Inf.
Bde. and issue orders to M.G. Company Commanders accordingly. [Appendix
15] [Appendix 16] |
|
6.30 pm |
Quantity of gas shells fired into valley at M.16. and 22. |
|
7-9 pm |
Left Brigade advised O.C. that enemy relief suspected in
that sector. All guns were laid on enemy approaches and tracks. 31,000
rounds were fired in all. |
|
9 pm |
Lieut. Col. Weir was called by wire to visit C.M.G.O. who
informed him that a third Company of 32 Guns is to be added to each Canadian
M.G. Battalion. The personnel (600 men and 12 officers) are to be drawn
from the Infantry Battalions. They are to receive 5 or 6 days training
and to proceed into the line at once, strengthened by 3 gunners from existing
companies. |
|
11.45 pm |
The following wire was received from Division. "From deductions
made by Army enemy may make an attack tomorrow on frontage which may include
this Divisional front". Communicated to all Coy Commanders immediately
by Priority wire. |
|
11 12mn
- 2 am |
Indirect harassing fire as between 7 & 9 p.m. 10th inst.,
carried out on:-
Targets F.5. F.6. & F.4. [Appendix
17]
Steady shelling by H.E. & Gas shells at Whiskey & Blighty Groups.
Otherwise fairly quiet. |
|
6 am
- 10 am |
Enemy fire rather heavy, with barrage over front line system.
Enemy raided at 9.30 a.m. but was driven back with loss on Left Battalion
frontage. |
|
2 pm |
One gun put out of action by German artillery fire. Complete
spare part kit blown away. |
|
5.20 pm |
Two low-flying E.A. crossed line at 2520 ft. Guns fired
1200 rounds. |
|
10 pm |
Relief of "A" & "B" Batteries by "E" & "F" Batteries
completed. |
|
12 12.05am |
Enemy artillery very active. Our guns replying vigorously
all night until daylight. [Appendix
18] |
|
7.10 pm |
Targets engaged by harassing fire as follows:-
| S.6C40.00 |
1,000 |
| S.6A.80.00 |
1,000 |
| TIC 70.20 |
1,000 |
| M36b.95.42 |
1,500 |
| S.6b.40.09 |
1,500 |
| M36b.57.55 |
1,500 |
| N13d.3070-N19b.70.70. |
3,000 |
| N20b.60.80. to Nna.90.90. |
3,000 |
| N19d.10.40. |
5,000 |
| N25b.35.90 to N25b.90.00. |
5,000 |
|
23,500 |
|
|
9 pm |
First party of 600 men who are to form a third Company with
32 guns arrived. Capt. J.A. McCAMUS M.C. is placed temporarily in charge
of Company by addition of 4 N.C.O's per Battery is to make them fit to
take their places in Line in 5 days. |
|
10 pm |
Position M.23.65.10. shelled with light H.E. and Gas shells.
Aeroplanes very active, and many enemy balloons observed owing to good
visibility. [Appendix 19] |
|
13 |
The guns for the 600 men of No. 3 Company did not arrive.
Battery Commanders were withdrawn from the line and appointed temporarily.
Batteries are named as follows:-
| "J" Battery |
"L" Battery |
| "K" Battery |
"M" Battery |
|
|
9 pm |
Secret letter Third Army No. G.S. 59/9 Received. (Third
Army letter G.S.59/9) [Appendix
20] |
|
10 pm |
Five lorries, drivers, 32 guns and all spare parts arrived,
in charge of Lieut. CLEGHORN. These are to form the transport of the 3rd
Company of 2nd Machine Gun Battalion. Abel gun heavily shelled, and officer
in charge (Lieut. McBURNEY) decided to move it to new position further
from a road, which he considered, drew fire. Work being done to improve
positions and Batty HQ at M17b.20.45 was constructed. Guns at S2a.90.60
came in for heavy shelling with Gas. |
|
14 12 am |
M.G's cooperated with Artillery in a combined shoot. Harassing
Fire carried out until dusk on following targets:-
| M36b.51.55 |
3,500 |
|
| M36b.95.42 |
3,500 |
|
| S6b.40.07 |
3,500 |
|
| T1b.20.65 |
4,000 |
|
| T1b.40.65 |
3,500 |
|
| N26c.10.80 to N26a.70.80 |
4,000 |
|
| N19b.90.10 to N20b.70.80 |
4,000 |
|
| N20a.10.70 to N26b.50.80 |
4,000 |
|
| N15a.70.80 |
3,500 |
|
| N19d.10.40 |
4,000 |
|
| Total |
37,500 |
Rounds |
Lieut. FILDES was loaned by the 27th Battalion to this Battalion to act
as Assistant Adjutant. He at once started a thorough reorganization of
"A" and "Q" Branches of Unit, owing to it having grown beyond all limits.
Card Index system for men started, and with the original A.F.B. 213 of
Unit used as a base, made out a complete Nominal Roll of the Battalion.
Lieut. SMART was loaned by the same Battalion to act as Assistant Quartermaster
as owing to the great increase in personnel, this step was found necessary.
Considerable work done during the night in constructing dugouts, latrines,
and deepening trenches. |
|
10.30 |
Area around MERCATEL was shelled for about two hours. |
|
11 pm |
Position at M23c shelled for an hour with all shells. Small
damage done to some gun equipment by this fire. |
|
11.15 |
Word received from Division that there is considerable enemy
movement in NO MAN'S LAND especially in front of Division on our right
flank. The O.C. Right Company (Major PEARCE) was telephoned and ordered
to fire as many guns as possible in F1a.F2a & b, to endeavour to cut
this movement down. |
|
15 7.10 pm |
Fire carried out in enemy tracks, routes, and approaches.
Following targets well engaged:-
| F2e |
3,000 |
|
| F3a |
3,000 |
|
| F3c |
2,250 |
|
| F3b |
3,000 |
|
| F2L |
3,000 |
|
| F1b |
3,000 |
|
| F4c |
4,000 |
|
| F5c |
3,500 |
|
| F5a |
4,000 |
|
| F5d |
3,000 |
|
| F6a |
4,000 |
|
| Total |
35,750 |
Rounds. |
This firing was done in conjunction with Artillery and in cooperation with
Infantry Brigades. |
|
5.15 am
- 5.50 am |
All M.G's fired a special shoot in conjunction with Artillery,
but although all M.G's fired, artillery did not open up.
Corporal HICKMAN. D.C.M. with four men have been out for two days in
positions in front of their positions on TELEGRAPH HILL, sniping. They
claim many targets of Huns at from 1100 to 1300 yds, being principally
enemy carrying parties with corrugated iron. Several hits were claimed.
Work done on improvements to dugouts, construction of latrines and M.G.
signs for PLAYER, CAPSTAN, TUCKETT and BILLINGS guns. Quiet morning. Cpl.
HICKMAN carried on with sniping from TELEGRAPH HILL, apparently with good
results. APPLE and TULL guns were moved to new emplacements which had been
prepared and carefully camouflaged. |
|
4.30 pm |
Wire received that enemy will carry out relief tonight in
front. Guns were all concentrated on approaches, etc., to area concerned.
Another shoot was arranged in cooperation with Artillery which was
carried out with success in a suspected enemy relief.
C.M.G.O. and General BURSTALL made a short inspection of men of No.
3 Company who are receiving five days training, whilst the men were at
work. The schedule laid down is necessarily condensed as far as possible,
and is chiefly composed of Immediate Action and loading, with as much firing
as can be done.
Captain MILLICAN M.C. made a reconnaissance of the Army line with C.M.G.O.
They selected positions for M.G's. Engineers are to put M.G. positions
in under supervision of Lieut. MUCH and six N.C.O's of this Battalion.
Work to commence 10.00 a.m. on 16th inst. Relief of "H" Battery by "G"
Battery was carried out without any hitch. |
|
Dusk &
Mdnt. to
Dawn. |
Indirect fire was carried out on following targets :-
| N.26.a.10.10. to N.26.a.90.50. |
3,000 |
|
| N.19.b.90.20. to N.20.c.70.80. |
4,000 |
|
| N.20.a.10.65. to N.20.b.40.75. |
3,000 |
|
| N.19.a.10.40. |
3,000 |
|
| N.13.a.20.75. to N.19.b.85.90. |
4,000 |
|
| N.20.a.55.00. to N.21.a.1.1. |
4,000 |
|
| T.1.b.35.36. to N.32.b.0.0. |
4,000 |
|
| T.7.b.20.55. to |
4,000 |
|
| Total |
29,000 |
Rounds. |
|
|
16 9.50 am |
Word received from G.S.O. 1. that Bosche are in front line
of Division on right. Word sent by phone to O.C. No. 1 Coy. who was not
acquainted with the fact, but who said that the front was quiet except
for our own guns which were firing hard.
It was afterwards determined that Bosche had occupied 400 yards of
trench south of our Division Boundary. Col. WEIR who was at the time making
a tour of the line was informed by observers that Huns were re-inforcing
their troops in our lines. He immediately gave verbal orders to turn BELFAST
and CORK Guns to fire over area over which enemy re-inforcements would
have to travel. In addition, GLASGOW, BATH, and DUBLIN Guns were switched
on same area. No direct fire was obtained, but some thousands of rounds
were fired indirect. |
|
11.00 am |
Word received that party of Bombers of 19th Canadian Battalion
succeeded in driving enemy out of trenches they had occupied, and handed
same over to Division on right flank, who were apparently not aware of
anything unusual occurring. |
|
2.45 pm |
Enemy shelled MERCATEL ROAD. M.28.d.30.55. to M.27.d.40.90.
This shelling followed immediately after two wagons had passed along, as
it is in plain observation of the Bosche. |
|
4.00 pm |
DAUGHTER and FARO Guns received direct hits on positions.
No casualties but guns were moved 30 yards left. "A" Battery relieved by
"B" Battery and "D" Battery will be relieved by "A" Battery. |
|
11.15 pm |
Relief complete. 11.15 p.m. |
|
17 |
Day fairly quiet. Time spent in salvaging frames for dugouts,
and constructing same. An Infantry Battalion assisted to wire some positions.
Harassing fire carried out for hours of darkness 17th/18th.
| N.19.d.31.00. - N.25.b.85.10. |
3,000 |
|
| N.26.a.10.10. - N.26.a.90.50. |
3,000 |
|
| N.19.d.10.40. - |
3,000 |
|
| N.19.b.90.20. - N.20.c.70.75. |
3,500 |
|
| N.15.a.70.75. - |
3,000 |
|
| N.31.a.15.25. - N.31.a.60.55. |
3,500 |
|
| N.31.a.90.05. - N.31.b.30.87. |
3,000 |
|
| N.36.a.90.85. - N.31.c.15.05. |
3,000 |
|
| N.31.b.45.50. - |
3,000 |
|
| M.36.b.40.90. - N.36.b.70.35. |
3,000 |
|
| M.25.d.28.95. - |
3,000 |
|
|
34,000 |
Rounds Fired |
|
|
18 |
Four British soldiers captured during first stage of German
Offensive escaped to our lines. They report that enemy intends to resume
his operations against AMIENS with PARIS as his objective, but knows of
no intent to attack on this Division front. |
|
2 pm |
Operation Order issued. [OO.No.31.85
Appendix 21] |
|
19 |
Harassing Fire carried out during hours of darkness as follows:-
| N.31.a.80.20. to N.31.b.30.92. |
4,000 |
|
| N.31.a.20.36. to N.31.d.60.55. |
4,000 |
|
| T.1.c.50.85. to T.1.c.80.20 |
4,000
|
|
| T.1.d.35.45. |
4,000 |
|
| N.26.a.85.55. to N.20.d.50.00. |
4,000 |
|
| N.25.d.32.08. to N.25.d.95.80. |
4,000 |
|
| N.19.d.30.00. to N.25.c.85.15. |
4,000 |
|
| N.25.d.25.90. |
4,500 |
|
| Total |
32,500 |
Rounds |
Enemy artillery more active. Positions came in for H.E. & Gas shelling
at 4.30 p.m. Road M.27.c.27.82. to M.26.d.30.52. was shelled with H.E.
Engineers worked on shelters for guns at M.16.c.16.33. and M.16.c.44.45.
Work on dugout at M.23.c.5.1. making good progress. 11 steps have now been
put down. Considerable S.A.A. is being salvaged from old camps that lie
close to the front line. There is a large one in "No Man's Land." |
|
8.15 |
Word received from "G" Branch that S.O.S. seen on left flank. |
|
8.20 |
Wired through to O.C. Left Company (Major BASEVI) who reported
S.O.S. seen, and all left guns firing, but no knowledge of what was actually
happening, but thought it was a raid on Division on left flank. |
|
8.30 |
Another signal seen to the right of first. 11,500 rounds
fired on S.O.S. but no direct targets obtained. |
|
8.55 |
O.C. No. 1 Company reported all quiet on Brigade front. |
|
20 |
Harassing Fire carried out during hours of darkness as follows:-
| T.1.c.00.15. to T.1.b.25.55. |
4,000 |
|
| M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.75.40. |
4,000 |
|
| N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.d.60.55. |
4,000 |
|
| T.7.b.20.50. |
3,000 |
|
| T.1.c.50.80. to T.1.c.75.25. |
4,000 |
|
| N.25.b.35.90. to N.25.b.90.10. |
2,000 |
|
| N.19.b.90.15. to N.20.c.70.80. |
3,000 |
|
| N.19.d.10.35. |
2,500 |
|
| N.20.d.10.65. to N.20.b.40.75. |
2,500 |
|
| N.20.b.60.80. to N.21.a.75.98. |
3,000 |
|
| N.13.d.30.75. to N.19.b.85.95. |
3,500 |
|
| Total |
35,500 |
Rounds Fired |
Work on Battery Headquarters for EDEN GROUP completed. (M.17.b.20.45.)
Splinter proofs have been constructed for PLAYERS, TUCKETTS, WOODBINE,
GOLD FLAKE, 30 foot dugout nearly complete for FARO, DAUGHTER, MOSES, BULL.
Communications are installed between them. |
|
9.00 -
10.30 pm |
Many Gas shells into S.2.d. and S.3.c. |
|
9.30 pm |
Gas masks had to be worn at Battery Headquarters "B", for
30 minutes. |
|
11.30 pm |
Heavy shrapnel barrage put on sunken road in N.22.d. and
quantity of gas at M.23.c. The two Batteries in Division Reserve took up
positions in forward area. As follows:-
| "D" Battery. H.Qrs. |
M.16.a.40.65. |
| 4 Guns Reserve at |
M.16.a.40.65. |
| 2 Guns |
M.28.a.35.45. |
| 2 Guns |
M.21.a.75.70. |
| "B" Battery. H.Qrs. |
M.27.a.38.16. |
| 2 Guns |
M.32.d.50.25. |
|
M.32.c.65.50. |
|
M.32.c.45.50. |
| 2 Guns |
M.29.a.50.10. |
| 2 Guns |
M.27.a.05.70. |
|
|
5.00 |
No. 3 Company moved up to BRETENCOURT where they are to
stay until tomorrow, when they will take up place in front line. |
|
21 |
Harassing Fire carried out on following targets during hours
of darkness:-
| M.36.d.85.85. to N.31.c.15.10. |
3,000 |
|
| N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.d.60.58. |
3,000 |
|
| M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.70.30. |
3,000 |
|
| T.7.b.20.50. |
3,000 |
|
| T.1.c.50.80. to T.1.c.75.25. |
3,000 |
|
| S.6.b.90.15. to T.1.b.30.55. |
3,000 |
|
| N.21.c.00.00. to N.21.c.85.00. |
3,000 |
|
| N.25.b.35.90. to N.21.c.85.00. |
3,000 |
|
| N.19.b.90.20. to N.20.c.70.75. |
3,000 |
|
| N.19.d.10.40. |
2,000 |
|
| N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.70. |
3,000 |
|
|
32,000 |
Rounds Fired. |
Honours and Awards. The following N.C.O's and men are awarded
the Military Medal. Authority London Gazette No. 30573 dated 12-3-18.
| 427184 |
Cpl Hills, J. |
68001 |
Sgt Christie, J. |
| 57318 |
Sgt White, E.J. |
910115 |
Pte Duxberry, O.B. |
| 135305 |
Cpl Saint, J. |
79728 |
Cpl Donald, R. |
| 447377 |
Sgt Bradford, L.E. |
|
|
The following N.C.Os and men are awarded Bar to Military Medal. (Authority
as above.)
| 69194 |
Sgt Caldwell, L. |
423395 |
Sgt Eustace, F. |
Work carried on all day at improving dugouts and constructing splinter
proof shelters. Enemy aircraft very active all day, and guns fired 1,700
rounds at them. German relief suspected in two positions of Division Front,
so Guns were trained for Harassing Fire as follows :-
| Targets. |
F4.a. |
4,000 |
|
|
F.4.c. |
4,000 |
|
|
F.4.b. |
4,000 |
|
|
F.4.e. |
4,000 |
|
|
F.5.c. |
4,000 |
|
|
F.5.d. |
4,000 |
|
| Route. |
N.20.a.5.5. to N.21.a.1.1. |
4,000 |
|
|
|
30,000 |
Rounds fired. |
|
|
10.50 pm |
Relief by No. 2 Company completed by No. 3 Company. |
LA RIVIERE
R.26.b.72.40. |
22 |
CULVERT, AGNEY, AND FICHEUX were all shelled throughout
daytime. New positions were reconnoitred for GOLD FLAKE, and WOOD BINE
Guns at M.10.c.51.70. and work commenced on constructing emplacements.
Sunken road in M.22.d. & M.23.c.heavily shelled. The valley south of
M.23.e.5.1. was filled with Gas by enemy shelling.
All crews working hard at reclaiming and retimbering old dugouts which
were stripped when the British advanced last spring, but have now been
recommissioned for service.
Headquarters, and Officer Commanding Battalion, moved to LA RIVIERE.
Honours and Awards. The following N.C.O's and men have been awarded
the Distinguished Conduct Medal. (Authy London Gazette 30601 dated 26-3-18).
| 61221 |
Sgt Chamberland, E. |
71196 |
Sgt Murray, W. |
| 721950 |
L/C Sillers, W. |
|
|
The following other rank has been awarded the Military Medal. (Authy London
Gazette No. 30573 dated 12-3-18.
| 1004093 |
Pte Anderson, M.J. |
The following N.C.O. has been awarded the Bar to the Military Medal. :-
| 424444 |
Cpl (A/Sgt) Bierd, E.C. |
(Authority as above.) [Appendix
22 Appendix 23] |
|
23 |
|
|
24 |
Harassing Fire carried out during hours of darkness as follows:-
| N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.d.60.58. |
5,000 |
|
| M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.70.30. |
5,000 |
|
| T.7.b.50.85. to T.7.b.52.30. |
3,000 |
|
| T.1.d.40.35. |
3,000 |
|
| T.1.c.50.80. to T.1.c.75.25. |
3,000 |
|
| N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.70. |
2,500 |
|
| N.20.b.45.70. to N.15.c.75.00. |
2,500 |
|
| N.25.b.75.90. to N.25.b.85.15. |
2,000 |
|
| N.26.c.0.0. |
2,500 |
|
| N.13.b.90.90. to N.14.a.90.90. |
2,500 |
|
| N.20.a.20.30. to N.20.b.10.10. |
2,500 |
|
| Road N & S through N.23.c. |
2,500 |
|
| Track N.25.d.00.75. - N.26.c.00.60. |
2,500 |
|
| Total |
38,500 |
Rounds Fired. |
| 1850 Rounds fired at Enemy Aircraft. |
|
|
Work continued in wiring gun positions with spider web wire. Great amount
of salvage is being collected nightly from a deserted American Engineers
(Railway) Camp just behind front line.
ADAM and EVE positions were shelled, and enemy bombardment was heavy
on front of Division on left, this is evidently in retaliation for raid
by that division. SERPENT and GARDEN came in for some of this barrage. |
|
25 |
Harassing Fire carried out during hours of darkness as follows:-
|
N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.d.60.58. |
3,500 |
|
|
M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.70.30. |
3,500 |
|
|
S.6.a.25.50. |
5,000 |
|
|
S.6.d.20.85. to S.6.b.98.25. |
3,000 |
|
|
N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.70. |
2,500 |
|
|
N.20.b.45.70. to N.25.c.75.00. |
2,500 |
|
|
N.25.b.35.90. to N.25.b.85.15. |
2,500 |
|
|
N.26.c.00.00. |
2,500 |
|
| Track |
N.13.b.90.90. to N.14.a.90.90. |
2,500 |
|
|
N.20.a.20.30. to N.20.b.10.10. |
3,500 |
|
| Road |
N & S through N.25.c. |
3,500 |
|
| Track |
N.25.a.00.70. to N.26.c.00.60. |
2,000 |
|
|
Total |
34,500 |
Rounds fired. |
Honours and Awards. The following other ranks have been awarded the Military
Medal. (Authority: London Gazette. 30573 dated 12-3-18.)
Enemy very quiet with Artillery, but M.G. Fire at night is fairly heavy
and steadily increasing in volume. BAPAUME-ARRAS ROAD receives a great
amount of M.G. Fire. Ground in front of SNAKE, SERPENT, and GARDEN vigorously
shelled, also Battery Headquarters in EDEN GROUP. The shells were Gas,
dropped in salvos of 6 at half hour intervals. Work on wiring and timbering
of dugouts continued. |
|
26 |
Harassing Fire carried out as follows during the hours of
darkness:-
| S.6.d.80.10. to S.12.b.80.25. |
4,000 |
| T.7.b.20.50. |
2,000 |
| N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.70. |
4,000 |
| N.20.b.40.70. to N.15.c.75.00. |
4,000 |
| N.25.b.35.90. to N.25.b.85.15. |
4,000 |
| N.26.c.00.00 |
4,000 |
| Total Rounds - - |
22,000 |
It was necessary to stop firing for a long time as patrols were out during
the greater part of the night. |
|
10.30 pm |
Quantity of Gas shells on M.23. Square.
Work done during the 24 hours. :-
Bunks fitted to gun crews' dugouts. Stairway dug out and timbered for
one gun. Sign boards placed at all positions. Latrines constructed. Wiring
done on APPLE and TREE Guns. APPLE and TREE Guns camouflaged with sods.
Trenches deepened and drained. |
|
27 |
Harassing Fire program carried out as follows:-
| N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.45.70. |
4,000 |
|
| N.20.b.45.70. to N.15.c.75.00. |
4,000 |
|
| N.25.b.35.90. to N.25.b.85.15. |
4,000 |
|
| N.26.c.00.00. |
4,000 |
|
| S.12.b.56.60. to S.12.b.40.20. |
5,000 |
|
| T.1.c.50.80. to T.1.c.75.25. |
7,250 |
|
| N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.a.60.58. |
4,000 |
|
| M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.70.30. |
4,000 |
|
| Total |
36,250 |
Rounds. |
|
|
6 am |
Enemy M.G. Fire is increasing every night. Our M.G. Fire
increased accordingly. O'S.C. Companies complain of movement in vicinity
of Guns in daylight, causing much shelling. |
|
9 am |
Enemy dropped a few shells around BENSON without doing any
damage |
|
10 am |
Wire received from Division that 16 L.D. and 16 H.D. Horses
and 12 vehicles were to arrive at QUESNES LE COMPTE this day. Party of
20 drivers and Quartermasters were despatched to draw them.
Company Headquarters of Left Company was moved from M.16.a.40.68 to
Brigade Headquarters at M.8.c.70.00. This was done to see if better liaison
could be established with Infantry Battalions.
Work done during the 24 hours:-
Dugout construction proceeded with, and new dugouts commenced at GLOBE
and MAIL. |
|
28 |
Harassing Fire program carried out throughout the hours
of darkness:-
| T.1.c.50.80. to T.1.c.75.25. |
7,250 |
|
| N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.d.60.58. |
4,000 |
|
| M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.70.30. |
4,000 |
|
| N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.70. |
2,500 |
|
| N.20.b.35.90. to N.25.b.85.15. |
2,500 |
|
| N.26.c.00.00. |
2,000 |
|
| S.12.b.56.60. to S.12.b.40.20. |
7,000 |
|
| Total |
31,250 |
Rounds Fired. |
|
|
3 pm |
Enemy made a stealth raid in left Brigade and entered our
trenches S.W. of NEUVILLE VITASSE, capturing some three wounded infantrymen.
Guns did not obtain any direct targets but fired 8,000 rounds on S.O.S.
Lines. [Appendix 24] |
|
5.30 pm |
Hostile planes flew very low over BRETENCOURT, WAILLEY,
and BELLACOURT. All M.G's and rifles were firing but did not bring them
down. 3350 rounds fired at low flying enemy Aircraft during the day. |
|
29 |
Harassing fire program carried out throughout the hours
of darkness as follows:-
| S.6.a.20.85 to S.6.b.98.25. |
8,000 |
|
| T.1.c.50.80. to T.1.c.75.25. |
8,000 |
|
| S.6.d.80.10. to S.12.b.80.25. |
8,000 |
|
| S.12.b.56.60. to S.12.b.40.20. |
2,000 |
|
| M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.30.70. |
6,700 |
|
| S.6.a.25.50. |
7,300 |
|
| M.36.d.90.05. to M.31.b.30.87. |
6,500 |
|
| N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.d.60.58. |
5,000 |
|
| N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.70. |
3,000 |
|
| N.20.b.45.70. to N.15.c.75.00. |
2,000 |
|
| N.25.b.35.90. to N.25.b.85.15. |
2,000 |
|
| N.26.c.00.00. |
2,000 |
|
| Total |
60,500 |
Rounds fired. |
Word was received that enemy were relieving in right sector, so amount
of indirect fire was trebled. Left Brigade raided enemy trenches in NEUVILLE
VITASSE. 16 Machine Guns cooperated with indirect fire, and carried out
firing on following points. (Instructions for M.G. Barrage).
Cross Roads at N.19.b.80.85.
Cross Roads at N.20.a.10.65.
Sugar Factory N.19.c.20.20.
Road N.19.c.30.05 to N.25.b.40.80.
Time of firing was 20 minutes rapid: from Zero plus 20 to Zero plus
30 1 belt per Gun. The Raid was successful and we captured 10 Germans and
four machine guns.
Weather wet and dull. Trenches all caved in, necessitating much digging
to keep belts, etc., unburied. |
|
11.30 pm |
Inter Battery relief of No. 3 Company complete. Very dark
night for relief, and one or two men got detached from parties, and temporarily
lost, but all turned up eventually. |
|
30 |
Harassing Fire Program carried out through the hours of
darkness as follows:-
| T.1.c.45.98. to T.1.c.80.20. |
3,500 |
|
| S.6.a.20.85. to S.6.b.98.25. |
2,000 |
|
| S.6.d.80.10. to S.12.b.80.25. |
6,000 |
|
| S.12.b.56.60. to S.12.b.40.20. |
1,500 |
|
| M.36.b.40.85. to M.36.b.70.30. |
1,500 |
|
| S.6.a.25.50. |
1,500 |
|
| M.36.d.90.05. to M.31.b.30.87. |
1,500 |
|
| N.31.a.15.25. to N.31.b.30.87. |
1,500 |
|
| N.20.a.10.60. to N.20.b.40.70. |
1,500 |
|
| N.20.b.45.70. to N.15.c.75.00. |
1,500 |
|
| N.25.b.35.90. to N.25.b.85.15. |
1,500 |
|
| Total |
23,500 |
Rounds fired. |
Harassing Fire was interrupted considerably by relieving infantry walking
along overland tracks in front of Guns. Wet and misty day made Artillery
activity small. Work was done on all positions needing improvement and
party from R.E's. assisted M.G's. to build dugouts etc.
The 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade are contemplating making a raid,
and O's.C. Companies visited them to arrange for M.G. Support. |
G.N. Douglas. Capt