9th Lancashire Fusiliers/Thiepval

[Guest Coppeard]

Hi, sorry this is probably entirely the wrong place but I can't work out how to post elsewhere! I'm researching a relative Sgt A Smith, KIA 26 September 1916. I have contacted the Fusiliers museum but struggled to get more details of the battalions movements/actions on the day. I have references to them sending out bombing parties which got tied down by German fire early in the day and them taking heavy casualties before being relieved by the Manchesters but I wondered if anyone had any further details and casualty figures for the day.

Thanks for any help, Phil

[Blackblue]

Hi Phil,

I have some of the War Diary and the relevant section of the Regimental History. My Grandfather served on the Regimental Transport for most of the war.

"The Battalion carried out an attack in accordance with Operation Order No. 27, Zero Hour being 12.35pm. The net result was Zollern Trench was occupied but the 3rd Objective (Stuff Redoubt) was not captured. CAPT E C Longworth was killed whole leading his Company between the 1st and 2nd Objective as also was LT Schooling. CAPT Selby (RAMC) was killed by a bullet whilst attending to the wounded in the open under fire. LT Hoyland, LT J Shaw, 2LTs Keating, H M Mortiz, E C Masterso, LT M W B Deane, 2LT Harris and 2LT Twist (who remained at duty) were all wounded. CAPT Davies, 2LT Lamb, 2LT Potter were reported missing. The Battalion suffered about 400 casualties in the ranks. A detailed report of the operations is being compiled and will be attached as an Appendix to the War Diary for 1st - 31st October 1916".

Unfortunately I don't have the "detailed report" mentioned. I don't think it was present at TNA when I got this research done, but another look may be worthwhile.

Scans to Regimental History to follow.

Rgds

Tim

[Blackblue]

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