23rd Bn Manchester

[ForeignGong]

Hi

Reading the above units WD and instead of A, B, C, D companies it refers to W, X, Y, Z . Do I take it that the original Companies were given these new designations as they were on active service????

 

Appreciate any advise.

 

Peter

[John_Hartley]

The 23rd used the traditional in training (source: Manchester City Battalions Book of Honour). I wonder if the change was a later designation for Bantam battalions?

[ForeignGong]

Hi John

The WD has the first deployment of the Bn into the line using W, X, Y, Z, was this common use on active service???

[John Beech]

Morning Peter

 

According to ''The Fifth in the Great War', the 1st Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers changed from lettered companies A,B,C and D to W,X,Y and Z on 4th September 1914 due to their having been some recent confusion between B and D Companies when verbal orders were issued. Bearing in mind the nature of the fighting in 1914, it may well have been thought a necessity rather than a specific requirement because they were on active service. I certainly know of many Battalions that retained A,B,C and D whilst on active service.

 

Incidentally, the War Diary continued to use A,B,C and D Companies until October 1914, whereas the casualty returns at the month end are all shown with the W,X,Y, and Z prefix, even August 1914!

 

Regards

 

John

Edited 29 December , 2017 by John Beech

[ForeignGong]

Thank you John, that makes sense. Thought it must be something simple.

 

Peter