War Diaries

[Guest]

Have just been to the PRO and read the war diaries for my grandfathers unit (23rd Mdsx) for Sept/Oct 1918. Fascinating stuff! But I have some questions please.

Who actually wrote the detailed combat reports?

The grid maps (remarkably detailed). Were these provided to the unit from existing maps or were these the result of reconnisence/intelligence?

Am I right in assuming a 2nd Lt would have been a platoon commander (if not in some kind of staff role).

PS I was very impressed with the way the unit was rotated-frontline, second line then reserve (lots of football, "bayonet and bullet exercises", the odd bath). The efficency of organisation involved for such a large army must have been tremendous. Some unsung heroes here maybe.

Thanks

[john kemp]

Kevin,

I have a copy of the 17th Middlesex war diary which I also found very

interesting. I have also seen the Brigade diary and Divisional diary which

also has lots of interesting info', worth a look if you get to the PRO again.

What is your interest in the 23rd ?

Regards

John

[SPotter]

Who actually wrote the detailed combat reports?

Am I right in assuming a 2nd Lt would have been a platoon commander (if not in some kind of staff role).

Kevin,

To answer those questions I can:

1) The War Diary was maintained by the Adjutant. He could have been anything from a 2/Lt to a Captain depending on Battalion circumstances. Pre War he was usually a Captain. It was either written 'on the hoof' during the period of mobile war or written up afterwards in a rest period. During the 'static' phase it would normally have been written on a daily basis.

2) Correct. The Sections of each platoon would have been headed by an NCO, but the Platoon itself commanded by a subaltern.

Regards

Steve

[Guest]

John

My Grandfather was 2nd Lt Frank Vernon Wallis who arrives at the 23rd 20 20/.05/18 and was wounded atr Heesveeth on 26/10/18

Cheers

Kevin

[Borden Battery]

FYI the CEF Study Group has formed a small user group to coordinate the formatting and transcription of the CEF war diaries. At present there are 3-4 war diaries under transcription.

I agree, reading the War Diaries first hand is to read the original source material sans interpretation and summarization.