8th Royal Fusiliers

[charlesmessenger]

I now have the complete war diary of this battalion and am happy to do look-ups.

Charles M

[mikegreene]

Hello Charles,

My Grandfather served in both the 8th Bn RF and latterly the 9th (after the reoganisation). I photographed the war diaries of both units for the time he was there and have transribed a fair amount of them which makes them much easier to read - I'm sure that you know what I mean ! It's not all there (I haven't yet got Aug 17 to the end of the 8th RF done but I hope it helps... If you want the rest, let me know and it might spur me on to finish the job ! This page wouldn't let me upload my formatted file, but if you let me have you real email address, I'll forward. NATO keeps me from doing anything intersting !

BTW can you make out the text for:

- 18 May 17 - Day spent in reorganising Coys + Kit inspections: a scratch football match of 4 officers and 7 ORs aside was played against the 7th Royal Sussex Regt who won by 1 goal to nil. Working party of 7 OR found for the F???? Major.

- 20 May 17 - Usual Church Services held for all denominations. The Battn played 2 Branch RE cable laying section at football in the afternoon + lost 1 goal to nil. Working party of 7 OR found for the F???? Major

- 17 Jul 17 Enemy artillery, trench mortars and ???? (air bombs?) very active. Casualties 1 OR killed, 2OR wounded. Dispensation of Companies were “A” and “C” Companies in Front Line, “D” in support and “B” in Reserve.

Lastly, aside from my thanks of the offer of look-ups, if you have anything else that pertains to the Bn, especially pictures of the guys of the period I'd be thrilled ! I have no picture of my Great-grandfather (GREEN Charles Frederick G48719, 8th RF 10.5.17 to 5.2.18 and 9th RF 6.2.18 to 1.5.18)

. I'd be happy to cover any reproduction costs, postage to my BFPO address and a contribution to favourite Service charity.

BRgds

Mike Greene

---------------------------------------------------------

You could reformat the following into 3 columns...

Incaiyle 10 May 17 The 36 Brigade moved up with the line in right of sector relieving the 35 Brigade. The Battn relieved the 7th NORFOLK REGT in the Brown Line less 1 Platoon (1 officer and 35 OR) which was attached to the 9th R.F. The Battn thus consisting of 1 Coy of 3 Platoons.

Brown Line

H34 Central 11 May 17 Quiet day. No casualties. Following carrying parties were found for the RE. 1 officer 67 OR. The platoon attached to the 9th R.F. rejoined the Battn. Capt Ling (Adjutant) rejoined the Battn from England. 2nd LTS JH HALL, S M DOUGLAS, W W CLIFFORD joined the Battn 8/5/17.

Brown Line

H34 Central 12 May 17 Quiet day. No casualties. 1 officer and 50 OR were found to carry rations up to the 11th Middlesex Regt. Official notice was received that

16770 CSM Bond T had been awarded the “Croix de Guerre” dated 1/5/17

9859 Capt Lloyd D J had been awarded the Military Medal.

Brown Line

H34 Central 13 May 17 Quiet day. No Casualties. Working parties found for the RE of 3 officers and 140 O.R. The following messages were forwarded received by the Battn.

12 Divn The Corps Commander has instructed me to inform you that he is much pleased with the good and hard work carried out by your Division in consolidating and improving the area you now hold. This work is all the more creditable as your Division has lost heavily and the men are tired.

VI Corps 12 May 1917 (Sgd) LOCH B.G.G.S.

36 Inf Bde In forwarding the above I am directed by the Major General Commanding to say that he is much gratified that the good work done by the Division is appreciated by the Corps Commander.

12.5.17 (Sgd) Bruce Hay Lt Col General Staff 12th Division

To all units For information. Please convey to all ranks.

13.5.17 (Sgd) E W Haydon Capt for Brigade Major 36 Inf Brigade.

Place 14 May 17 Quiet day. 1 OR wounded at Duty. The enemy heavily shelled the area between 2am and 4am. Working and Carrying Parties were found for the RE of 2 officers and 80 OR: Carrying up party of 1 officer and 50 OR found to carry up rations for the 7th R Sussex Regt

Place 15 May 17 The Battn were moved to the back areas of Arras, the Brigade having been relieved by a Brigade of the 29 Sussex. Information was received of the following awards which had been made to the Battn for the action fought by them on April 9th 1917.

Military Crosses

Lieut Marsden H.G.

2nd – R Beames

Military Medals

18353 Cpl Birch A F

9336 Cattlin J

1113 Sgt Somner H

9993 Pte Platt W

10693 Allen H

13044 Sgt Elsdon A V

754 Pte Hazelton W

1541 L/Sgt Moakes C

Bar to the Military Medal

277 Sgt Williams A

Arras 16 May 17 A quiet day spent in clearing up.

Arras 17 May 17 The Battn moved to Talavera Camp, Agnes-les-Duisans: leaving Arras at 3.45am + halting near Wagonlieu for breakfast and eventually reaching Agnes about 11am.

Agnes-les-Duisans 18 May 17 Day spent in reorganising Coys + Kit inspections: a scratch football match of 4 officers and 7 ORs aside was played against the 7th Royal Sussex Regt who won by 1 goal to nil. Working party of 7 OR found for the F???? Major.

Agnes-les-Duisans 19 May 17 Reorganisation continued and close order drill. All Coys played trial football games in the afternoon.

Agnes-les-Duisans 20 May 17 Usual Church Services held for all denominations. The Battn played 2 Branch RE cable laying section at football in the afternoon + lost 1 goal to nil. Working party of 7 OR found for the F???? Major

Agnes-les-Duisans 21 May 17 Training Contd.

Agnes-les-Duisans 22 May 17 Company training continued. Battn football league commenced and “B” Coy beat “D” Coy 2 goals to nil “A” & “C” Coys drew no score.

Training continued. The following were mentioned in Sir D Haig’s Despatch

Lieut and 2 Master J.F. Williams

14271 Sgt Smith A

978 Pte Srynett E.R.

9993 L/Cpl Platt W

Agnes-les-Duisans 23 May 17 Training contd. The Battn football league was contd HQ beating “D” Coy 2 goals to nil + “C” Coy beat “B” Coy 4 goals to nil. Major General Scott presented medal ribbons in the afternoon at a parade held for this purpose and in a short speech said how pleased he was with the excellent work recently done by the Battn while in the line.

Agnes-les-Duisans 24 May 17 The Battn marched to Sus St Ledger where they were billeted.

Agnes-les-Duisans 25 May 17 Company training continued. H.Q. played “A” Coy in the Battn league and won 6 goals to one. “C” Coy played “B” Coy + won by 4 goals to nil.

Sus St Ledger 26 May 17 Company training continued. “C” Coy beat “D” Coy in the Battn league by 4 goals to 1 + “A” and “B” Coys drew 1 goal each.

Sus St Ledger 27 May 17 Battn marched to Lucheux Wood where a Brigade Church

Sus St Ledger 28 May 17 Company training continued. “C” Coy beat “A” Coy 1 goal to nil in the Battn League. 2nd LTs S Hoare + 2nd LT A.S. Jarratt joined the Battn for duty. A draft of 108 Other Ranks was received. The Battn held a concert for “B” & “D” Coys in the evening. A limber, 1 N.C.O. and 4 men were found to help the French farmers.

Sus St Ledger 29 May 17 Training Contd. “B” Coy beat Battn H.Q. by 4 goals to 1 in the Battn football League. Concert held for “A” & “C” Coys in the evening. Limber, 1 N.C.O and 4 men provided to help the French Farmers.

Sus St Ledger 30 May 17 Training contd. Limber and 5 OR provided as usual also Working Party of 1 N.C.O. and six other ranks to clear the roads.

Sus St Ledger 31 May 17 Company training carried out in the morning. The Battn held sports in the afternoon.. The Divisional Band played at same. The attendance and entries were good and the day proved successful.

Sus St Ledger 1 Jun 17 The Battn went for a route march through Lucheux Wood & Lucheux and then back here. Heats were seen off in the afternoon to pick out Representation for the Battn to run in the Brigade sports.

Sus St Ledger 2 Jun 17 Company training was carried out. The Brigade held a Gymkhana at Grand Rullecourt in the afternoon.

Sus St Ledger 3 Jun 17 The usual church parades were held.

Sus St Ledger 4 Jun 17 Company training was continued. The Brigade held sports on the ground here and the Battn secured places in the following.

120 yds Hurdles 2nd – Long Jump 1st – 3-legged race 1st – Sack race 1st + 2nd

Competition for smartest men turned out.

Sus St Ledger 5 Jun 17 Company training cont. Information was received that the battn had been given the following awards for bravery in the action fought on May 3rd.

Military Medal

50761 Pte Firth “A” Coy

20457 Pte Gregory F “B” Coy

1452 Pte Reed T “D” Coy

329 Sgt Wedgewood E “B” Coy

27757 Pte Hescin T “D” Coy

569 L/Cpl Coomber A “B” Coy

Bars to Military Medal

9993 L/Cpl Plate W “B” Coy

1968 Sgt Roake R “D” Coy

The following officers joined the Battn for duty.

2nd LT W E Allen

2nd LT M A May

2nd LT J Waugh

2nd LT C H Taylor

2nd LT J A Danes

2nd LT D A B Fry

Sus St Ledger 6 Jun 17 The Battn went for a route march (less “D” Coy who were given a course in the range) via Sombrin : Coullement : Hainbecourt starting at 6.30am + arriving back about 10am.

Sus St Ledger 7 Jun 17 Company training was carried out in the morning. Divl authority was received for the following promotions

Temp Capt R.H. Firkington to be Temp Major

Temp Lieut W H Nicholson to be Temp Capt

2nd Lieut C H Buken to be Temp Lieut

2nd Lieut S H Rurin to be Temp Lieut

The Battn played the 9th RF in the 1st round of the Brigade Football competition + lost 4 goals to nil.

Sus St Ledger 8 Jun 17 Company training was carried out. “D” Coy finished firing their musketry course which lasted 3 days. The Divl sports were held in the afternoon at Grand Rullecourt. The Battn had a fair representation who had been successful in the Brigade heats but only managed to get a second in the sack race.

Sus St Ledger 9 Jun 17 “C” Coy commenced their musketry course. Other Coys continued training

Sus St Ledger 10 Jun 17 Usual church services were held. “A” & “D” Coys drew in the Battn there being no score. Official news was received that No 55295 Corp (L/Sgt) George Jarrett of this Battn had been awarded the VC for the following act. For most conspicuous bravery & devotion in deliberately sacrificing his life to save others. He had, together with some wounded men, been taken prisoner + placed under guard in a dug out. The same evening the enemy were driven back by own troops, the leading infantry men of which commenced to bomb the dugout. A grenade fell in the dugout and without hesitation Corporal Jarrett placed both feet on the grenade the subsequent explosion blowing off both his legs. The wounded men were later safely recovered to own lines, but Corporal Jarrett died before he could be recovered. By this supreme act of self sacrifice the lives of the wounded were saved.

This VC was the first won in the Brigade + the 2nd in the Division.

Sus St Ledger 11 Jun 17 The companies carried out kit inspections as owing to very heavy thunderstorms work in the morning in the open was impossible. HQ beat “C” Coy 1 goal to nil in the Battn football league.

Sus St Ledger 12 Jun 17 “C” Coy continued their musketry course + other coys contd training. “A” Coy beat H.Q. 1 goal to nil in the Battn League.

Sus St Ledger 13 Jun 17 “C” Coy completed their musketry course . Remainder of Battn went on a route march via Beaudricourt – Wamin – Rebreuveille – Ivengny. “C” Coy drew with “D” Coy no goals + “B” and H.Q. drew 1 goal each in the Battn League.

Sus St Ledger 14 Jun 17 “A” Coy commenced their musketry course in the range. Other Coys contd training. The G.O.C 12 Div presented ribbon medals to NCO’s + men of the Brigade in the afternoon at a Brigade parade held on the sports ground. “D” Coy beat “A” Coy in the Battn League by 2 goals to 1.

Sus St Ledger 15 Jun 17 “A” Coy continued on the range other coys did bombing + open order + “C” Coy fired on the 500 yds range at Leincourt. News was received that the Colonel (Lt Col N.B. Elliott Cooper MC) had been awarded the D.S.O. the list of decorations won by the Battn to date are as follows:

Officers

D.S.O. 3

M.C. 9

Mentioned in Dispatches 12

Other Ranks

V.C. 1

M.C. 1

Croix de Guerre 1

D.C.M. 11

Military Medal 59

Bar to Ditto 4

Mentioned in Dispatches 5

The Battn played the 36th M.G.C at Cricket + lost by 74 runs to 55 AO. “C” + “B” drew no score “B” Coy beat “D” Coy 3 goals to 1 + HQ beat “C” Coy by 1 goal to nilin the Battn League.

Sus St Ledger 16 Jun 17 “A” Coy completed their musketry course. Other Coys carried out Coy training.

Agnes-Les-Duissans 17 Jun 17 Marched from SUS ST LEGER at 5.30am and arrived at AGNEZ-LES-DUISSANS at 10.30am. Weather was exceptionally hot but only a few men were compelled to fall out. Stayed at AGNEZ-LES-DUISSANS

Arras 18 Jun 17 Left AGNES-LES-DUISSANS at 5am and marched to ARRAS arriving there at 8.30am. Weather still hot. Battn were billeted in Petit Place. Headquarters were at Rue Chateaudun. Stayed there for the night.

Arras 19 Jun 17 A quiet day preparing to go into the trenches at night. Battalion moved off in separate Companies at half hour intervals starting at 7.30pm. Battalion relieved GORDON HRS, ROYAL WELSH FUSILIERS, SUFFOLKS and KINGS O.L. LANCS in the line on Infantry Hill east of Monchy. Relief rather difficult but was completed at 4.30am.

Line near Monchy le Preux 20 Jun 17 Day was spent consolidating and clearing up trenches which were in a very bad state. Casualties: 2nd Lieut Waugh slight wound in back from machine bullet whilst arranging posts in shell holes. 1 OR also wounded.

Line near Monchy 21 Jun 17 Day comparatively quiet. Work of consolidating continued. 1 OR killed, sniped.

Line near Monchy 22 Jun 17 Quiet day. Nothing to report. Casualties, 2nd Lt Douglas wounded by a bomb whilst on patrol. 4 OR wounded (1 at duty).

Line near Monchy 23 Jun 17 Quiet day but in the evening the enemy put a barrage down on our lines. S.O.S. sent up by us to which our Artillery replied. Battalion was relieved by 7th Royal Sussex and went back to support lines around MONCHY known as MONCHY Defences. We relieved the 11th Middlesex Regt there. During the relief, which was very successful, all was quiet. Casualties, 3 OR killed, 2 OR wounded.

Line near Monchy 24 Jun 17 Quiet day spent in resting. At night most of the Battalion were carrying rations for 7th Sussex Regt, 11th Middlesex Regt + ourselves. Casualties 1 OR killed 2 OR wounded

Line near Monchy 25 Jun 17 Quiet day in most parts of our line excepting “B” Coy who were subjected to a good deal of shelling. Capt Ling, OC “B” Coy was killed by a shell 2 OR killed 3 OR wounded, one at duty.

Line near Monchy 26 Jun 17 Hostile aeroplanes were active over our front which gave our Lewis Gunners some good shooting. Ration parties supplied as usual. Casualties 1 OR wounded.

Line near Monchy 27 Jun 17 Quiet during the day. At night the Battalion relieved the 7th Royal Sussex in the front line, going back to their old position. Casualties 2 ORs wounded.

Line near Monchy 28 Jun 17 Quiet day. During the night “B” Coy took over 200 yds of SNAFFLE TRENCH from Norfolks. The 9th Royal Fusiliers took over from a Platoon of “A” Coy. “A” Coy took over from a platoon of “D” Coy who in turn sent a platoon to the left of “B” Coy. This re-arrangement went off smoothly without incident. Casualties 1 OR wounded, 1 OR missing.

Line near Monchy 29 Jun 17 During the night we carried out a small minor operation to eject the enemy from two posts that he was holding to the left of “D” Coy. 2nd Lt Gade (O.C. “D” Coy) directed and 2nd Lt Davies went over with the party. The posts were unoccupied when our party got there but the enemy came over later to occupy them, He was surprised and 2 were killed, one certainly wounded and others probably wounded. No further attempt was made by the enemy to reoccupy the posts and the rest of the night was quiet. Casualties 6 OR wounded.

Line near Monchy 30 Jun 17 Quiet day. Weather wet.

Front Line . trenches near Monchy 1 Jul 17 Day quiet. During the night the following relief took place. “C” Coy were relieved by “B” Coy 9th Royal Fusiliers. One Platoon “A” Coy and two Platoon “D” Coy were relieved by “C” Coy 9th Royal Fusiliers. Two platoons of “A” Coy who were occupying posts in shell holes were relieved by 6th Battn Queens Regt.

On completion of these reliefs “C” Coy went along to Twin Trench and relieved a platoon of “D” Coy at the same time enabling “B” Coy in close up in SNAFFLE TRENCH. This change made the line a good deal stronger as “B” Coy were holding about 500 yds of front line trench with only 60 men. The platoon of “D” Coy came back and joined their company who with “A” Coy had gone back to the Brown Line. On completion of all these reliefs battalion headquarters moved back to F Strong Point, a position just West of Monchy. The reliefs went off quite smoothly with the exception of the posts who owing to some misunderstanding on the part of the Queens, were not relieved until nearly daylight. This was a risky procedure but fortunately no casualties occurred. Other casualties were 1 OR killed and 2 OR wounded.

Battlion HQ F Strong Point 2 Jul 17 During the day the enemy fired a lot of shells in the vicinity of F Strong Point. At night “C” and “B” Coys were relieved in the line by the 11th Middlesex. Battalion HQ in F Strong Point were also relieved by the 11th Middx. All then proceeded to the Brown Line where “A” and “D” Coys already were, Battalion Headquarters established in the Chalk Quarry Feuchy Chapel. The whole Battalion were now in the Brown Line. Casualties 1 OR killed 1 OR died of Wounds.

Brown Line Feuchy Chapel 3 Jul 17 Day spent resting and in baths. The baths at Tilloy were very good and after a bath and change of underclothes the men were much relieved. At night 5 officers and 225 men were sent of working parties with the 70th Coy R.E. Cleaning up was the order of the day. At night the following parties were supplied

Brown Line Feuchy Chapel 4 Jul 17 3 officers and 270 men for work with the 70th Coy R.E.; 1 officer and 43 men for carrying bombs and sandbags to 7th Sussex Regt. Casualties 1 OR wounded.

Brown Line Feuchy Chapel 5 Jul 17 A good deal of enemy shelling round our position during the day but no casualties occurred. The following parties were supplied at night 2 officers and 70 men for carrying to 7th Sussex. 2 officers and 110 men for working with 70th Coy R.E. Casualties nil.

Brown Line 6 Jul 17 Enemy shelling continued during the day. The following working parties were supplied at night. 1 officer and 50 men for carrying sandbags, wire and pickets to the 7th Sussex Regt; 1 officer and 30 men for crrying sandbags to the 11th Middx; 1 officer and 50 men for work with the 70th Coy R.E. The following guards were supplied:- For dump at Wanquintin, 2 lewis guns and teams. For dump at Warlus Dainville road 3 N.C.O. and 18 men. An officer posted these guards and then returned to Battalion.

Brown Line 7 Jul 17 Battalion Headquarters moved from the quarry at Feuchy Chapel to an old German dressing station a distance of about 500 yds. The battalion moved to their left in Brown Line to north of Sword Lane. A permanent working party to be attached to the Battalion of our Brigade in the Brown Line was made up of 1 officer 3 N.C.O.s and 24 men. This party with the addition of 26 men of the 9th R Fus and 26 men of the 7th R Sussex were attached to our “D” Coy for rations. No working party went out at night.

Brown Line 8 Jul 17 A quiet day. The following working parties were supported at night: 2 officers and 100 men for digging with the 69th Coy R.E., 1 officer and 50 men for carrying for the R.E. one officer and 23 men for burying a derelict tank under the supervision of the 87th Coy R.E.

Brown Line 9 Jul 17 The guard at the Walrus Dainville Road camp was relieved by the 7th Royal Sussex. At night the following working parties were supplier: one officer and 50 men for digging with the 69th Coy RE. 2 officers and 100 men for carrying with the RE. 1 officer and 23 men for continuing burying of tank. On completion of these tasks all coys moved back to Beaurains Camp leaving small parties in the Brown Line to guard the empty trenches until the arrival of the relieveing Battalion the 9th R Fus. On arrival at Beaurains camp tea was provided. The last Company reported in at 5.30 am after a strenuous night.

Beaurains Camp 10 Jul 17 Battalion headquarters moved from German Dressing Station in Brown Line to Beaurains Camp. Baths in the camp were allotted to officers from 12 noon to 1 pm and to Coys from 1.30 pm to 4.30pm. Clean washing for the men was provided. All night working parties were made up of 4 officers and 180 OR. The band marched with these parties to entraining spot on the Tilloy-Beaurains Road. From there they proceded to Monchy and returned by rail at 1am.

Beaurains Camp 11 Jul 17 A quiet day spent in cleaning up. Working parties were the same as yesterday, the 10th.

Beaurains Camp 12 Jul 17 A quiet day spent in cleaning up camp. In the evening the Brig General inspected the mass drums of the brigade. Later he opened an amusement tent where afterwards a concert was given by the Follies for the Battalion.

Beaurains Camp 13 Jul 17 The Battalion carried out training under company commanders in the morning. “A” and “B” Coys fired on the range. The first match of an inter-company knock out competition, between “A” and “C” Coys resulted in a win for “A” Coy by 1 goal to nil.

Beaurains Camp 14 Jul 17 Training continued. “C” and “D” Coys firing on the range. “D” Coy beat “B” Coy by 2 goals to nil. Carrying party of 3 officers and 100 ORs found for Trench Mortar Battery.

Beaurains Camp 15 Jul 17 Church Parade (Voluntary) was held in the morning and covering for all denominations.

Beaurains Camp 16 Jul 17 Company training continued. “A” and “B” companies firing on the range. The Divisional Band played in the Camp from 5.30 till 6.30. A Battalion concert was held ion the Scottish Church at 6.50 and proved a great success. 2 Lieuts CHL Symonds (wounded Oct 6 1916) and Pollard joined the Battalion for Duty and were posted to “C” and “A” Coys respectively.

Beaurains Camp 17 Jul 17 Company training continued. “A” Coy beat “D” five goals to nil in the final of the inter-coy football contest. The Divisional Band played in the Camp in the afternoon and at 5pm the massed drums of the Brigade played till 6pm.

Beaurains Camp 18 Jul 17 As the Battalion was moving up to the Line in the evening, the morning was spent in bathing and inspections. At 5pm the Battn moved up to the line, the 36th Brigade relieving the 37th Brigade in the right sub-sector of the divisional front in front of Monchy, the Battn being the left one of the Brigade. Casualties: nil.

Monchy 19 Jul 17 Artillery on both sides were active also the enemy’s planes were very active frequently flying over our lines. Casualties 1 officer wounded (2 Lt Williamson) 5 OR killed, 12 wounded. These were chiefly caused through an enemy barrage which came down owing to a raid by the Division on our left.

Monchy 20 Jul 17 Enemy artillery, trench mortars and XXXX (air bombs?) very active. Casualties 1 OR killed, 2OR wounded. Dispensation of Companies were “A” and “C” Companies in Front Line, “D” in support and “B” in Reserve.

Monchy 21 Jul 17 Artillery on both sides active. Casualties, 2nd Lt Davies wounded and 2 OR killed and 4 OR wounded.

Monchy 22 Jul 17 Artillery and Trench Mortars active, both sides, especially ours. Casualties 3 OR wounded. The Battalion was relieved by the 7th Battalion the Royal Sussex Regt in the line and moved back to the Brown Line being in support there.

Brown Line 23 Jul 17 Quiet day spent. Working Parties founded for the Brigade of 5 officers and 215 OR. Casualties 2 OR wounded. Capt L E Parsons (?) joined the Battn for Duty.

Brown Line 24 Jul 17 Quiet day spent. Working parties found for the Brigade at night of 5 officers and 200 ORs. Casualties: Nil.

Monchy 25 Jul 17 Quiet day. Carrying parties found for the Brigade of 30 ORs. The Battalion relieveing the 7th Royal Sussex Regt in the line, the dispositions of Coys was “B” and “D” Coys in Front Line “C” Coy in Support and “A” Coy in reserve. Casualties 1 OR wounded.

Monchy 26 Jul 17 Quiet day. Artillery on both sides fairly active especially ours. Casualties 1 officer (2nd Lieut Davies) wounded 1 OR killed 1OR wounded and 1 OR wounded at duty.

Monchy 27 Jul 17 Quiet day. Thought during the evening there was artillery activity. Casualties nil. Lieut W A Gade awarded the Military Cross.

Monchy 28 Jul 17 The say was quiet but at 9pm the enemy put up similar lights to an SOS with the result that our artillery immediately started a very heavy bombardment and to which the enemy replied for some five minutes, and though the enemy shelled very heavily he did but little damage owing to the inaccuracy of his shooting. Casualties 6 OR wounded and 2 ORs wounded at duty.

The Battalion was relieved by the 7th Royal Sussex Regt and moved back to the Brown Line.

Brown Line

(Waucourt Feuchy) 29 Jul 17 Quiet day spend in clearing up. Following working parties were found at night for the Brigade of 6 officers and 195 ORs. Casualties nil.

Brown Line

(Waucourt Feuchy) 30 Jul 17 Quiet day. Working parties found for the Brigade of 6 officers and 180 ORs

Brown Line

(Waucourt Feuchy) 31 Jul 17 Quiet day spent. The Battn relieved in the line by the 7th Battn Royal Suffolk Regt and afterwards marched back for rest at billets at Achicourt.

Achicourt 1 Aug 17 A quiet day spent. Battn provided carrying parties for the RE of 4 officers and 175 OR.

Achicourt 2 Aug 17 A quiet day spent. Battn provided carrying parties for the RE of 4 officers and 175 OR.

Achicourt 3 Aug 17 Battn moved up to Brown Line (Feuchy Chapel). Carrying and working parties of 4 officers and 175 OR found for RE.

Brown Line 4 Aug 17 Carrying and working parties of 4 officers and 175 OR found for RE.

Brown Line 5 Aug 17 The Battn became tactical reserve for the 35th and 37th Brigades.

Brown Line 6 Aug 17 The Battn took over the left sector in front of Monchy. The disposition of coys was as follows. “A” and “C” Coys Front Line. “B” Coy in Support and “D” Coy in Reserve. No Casualties.

Monchy 7 Aug 17 Fairly quiet day. No Casualties.

Monchy 8 Aug 17 Fairly quiet day. No Casualties.

9 Aug 17 Our artillery were active the whole day. “D” Coy relieved “C” Coy and “B” Coy relieved “A” Coy. The 12th Div and 4th Div made a raid

8th Bn diary INCOMPLETE...

9th Bn RF from integration of 8th Bn

Line (Wye Farm) 5 Feb 18 Under the general re-organisation scheme the 8th ROYAL FUSILIERS were disbanded the following officers and ORs of that Battalion transferred to the 9th Battalion:

Capt S G TYTE MC ‘C’ Coy

Capt C H BECKER ‘A’ Coy

a/Capt W.G SHEDEL ‘D’ Coy

a/Capt W R BROOKE ‘B’ Coy

Lieut W H DUFF ‘A’ Coy

Lieut A P HOWE ‘A’ Coy

a/Lieut V D COOKE ‘B’ Coy

a/Lieut A G BRETTELL ‘C’ Coy

a/Lieut F J KETTLE‘B’ Coy

a/Lieut C E GRAY MM ‘C’ Coy

a/Lieut F MASTERTON ‘D’ Coy

a/Lieut A S JARRATT ‘C’ Coy

a/Lieut J A DAVIES ‘B’ Coy

Number of ORs 291

The following officers joined the Battalion today were posted as under:

2/Lt E H J SKINNER ‘C’ Coy

2/Lt R P MONICO ‘D’ Coy

The Belgian Croix de Guerre was today awarded to the under mentioned officer and NCO:

Lt Col W V L Van SOMEREM DSO MC

No 14368 Sergt T Watson

In the Line – Wye Farm 6 Feb 18 Situation normal – great deal of artillery activity on both sides today. Visibility excellent. The following officers joined the Battalion today were posted as under:

2/Lieut W G CHEGWIDDEN ‘B’ Coy

2/Lieut B SPENCE ‘B’ Coy

2/Lieut F O BINGHAM ‘A’ Coy

2/Lieut J W DREWITT ‘D’ Coy

The Battalion took over part of the Middlesex front under the new organisation scheme. Left Coy 24 ORs now moved to CULVERT FARM.

In the Line – Wye Farm 7 Feb 18 Situation normal nothing to report. Aerial observation impossible owing to inclement weather.

In the Line – Wye Farm 8 Feb 18 Very Little artillery activity today. Weather – cloudy + wet.

In the Line – Wye Farm 9 Feb 18 Nothing to report on the Battalion Front today. Everything normal.

In the Line – Wye Farm 10 Feb 18 Normal activity on both sides. Weather – very wet with high wind. Situation quite normal.

In the Line – Wye Farm 11 Feb 18 Inter Coy relief today. On completion Coys disposed of as follows:

‘A’ Coy Left Support Coy

‘B’ Coy Right Support Coy

‘C’ Coy Left Front Company

‘D’ Coy Right Front Company

In the Line – Wye Farm 12 Feb 18 Situation normal all day. Very little aerial and artillery activity. The following MILITARY MEDALS were officially notified as having been awarded:

No 4817 Pte H SANDERS

No 992 Pte A BEBELL

In the Line – Wye Farm 13 Feb 18 Very inclement weather. Nothing to report.

In the Line – Wye Farm 14 Feb 18 The Battalion was relived today by the 7th Norfolk Regt. Relief commenced at 6.30pm + completed at 10.30pm. On completion of relief the Battalion moved back to rest billets at NOUVEAU MONDE – HQrs at G26 D1.1. The Battalion is now in Divisional reserve.

NOUVEAU MONDE 15 Feb 18 The morning was given up to reorganization and inspection of equipment, rifles and kit

NOUVEAU MONDE 16 Feb 18 Working Parties of 480 ORs + 10 Officers were provided today for work under the REs – burying cable. The following officers joined the Battalion today reported as under:

2/Lt L F WADE ‘A’Coy

2/Lt A H TOZER ‘B’ Coy

2/Lt C BAUGH ‘C’ Coy

2/Lt C HOWE ‘D’ Coy

Official notification was received that the following NCOs had been awarded Military Medals for gallantry + devotion to duty during the Cambrai operations:

No 2405 Sgt H BEESON

No 464 L Cpl F TREVERISH

NOUVEAU MONDE 17 Feb 18 Very sever front today. 10 Officers and 450 ORs employed today on working parties under the REs. NOUVEAU MONDE and SAILLY were bombed in the evening – few civilian casualties at SAILLY.

NOUVEAU MONDE 18 Feb 18 Working Parties were again provided today – 10 Officers and 450 ORs laying cable under RE supervision.

NOUVEAU MONDE 19 Feb 18 Similar working parties as yesterday provided again today.

NOUVEAU MONDE 20 Feb 18 Working parties amounting to 10 Officers + 450 ORs provided today. Weather very inclement.

NOUVEAU MONDE 21 Feb 18 The Battalion relieved the 6th Battalion The BUFFS at Rouge de Bout (Brigade Reserve) Bn HQrs at G36 a 90.65. Battalion provided at NOUVEAU MONDE at 1-0pm – relief complete 4.30pm.From 1.30pm to 6.30pm batteries round Bn HQ were intermittently shelled with 5.9 shells.

ROUGE DE BOUT 22 Feb 18 Front very quiet – a working party of 2 officers and NCOs + 120 men were provided today.

ROUGE DE BOUT 23 Feb 18 Situation normal. Some working parties provided as yesterday. At 5.15pm the crossroads at ROUGE DE BOUT were shelled with 5.9s. Salvos of 5 at 10 minute intervals were sent over. Firing ceased at about 6.15pm..

ROUGE DE BOUT 24 Feb 18 10am Battalion HQrs were moved from ROUGE DE BOUT to a farm at H31 a .75.80. Artillery on both sides very active today firing on back areas. Usual working parties provided today.

ROUGE DE BOUT 25 Feb 18 Situation normal. Visibility excellent. Between 5+6pm enemy shelled back areas. Usual working parties of 2 officers and 150 ORs also 30 ORs for night carrying parties.

ROUGE DE BOUT 26 Feb 18 Weather excellent. Situation normal nothing to report. Same working parties as yesterday provided today.

ROUGE DE BOUT 27 Feb 18 Weather fine – visibility excellent. Situation normal. Between 3 + 6 pm our own heavies active firing on enemy back areas. Usual working parties provided

ROUGE DE BOUT 28 Feb 18 Weather and visibility excellent. 2 Officers and 190 ORs employed on various working parties. Heavy artillery on both sides active, firing on back areas.

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 1 Mar 18 Situation normal throughout the day. Usual working parties of 2 officers and 190 ORs provided. At 8.20pm the enemy heavily bombarded the support and back areas of Bde on left with gas shells and H.E. His barrage caught our left Coy H.Qrs (A Coy) which sustained 5 direct hits. The enemy fire ceased at 10.30pm. Casualties 1 killed, 3 wounded 5 gassed of A Coy

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 2 Mar 18 The Battalion relieved the 7th Royal Sussex Regt in the right sub-sector of right Bde. Left ROUGE DE BOUT at 4.0pm. Relief complete at 6.20pm. Dispositions – ‘B’ Coy right front, ‘A’ Coy left front, ‘D’ Coy in support ‘C’ Coys in reserve

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 3 Mar 18 Very quiet night +quieter day. At 4.30pm our snipers shot enemy sentry opposite left front Coy.

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 4 Mar 18 Quiet Night. At 12 noon and 3pm our 6” TMs cut wire opposite left front Coy

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 5 Mar 18 Very quiet day. Little activity on Bn front.

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 6 Mar 18 Situation normal. Nothing to report. Inter-Coy relief.

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 7 Mar 18 Day quiet. Situation normal. 7th Royal Sussex Regt took over part of our front + carried out a raid with artillery support. Zero hour 4.40am. 2 prisoners captured. Enemy retaliation nil.

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 8 Mar 18 Everything normal. Nothing to report.

H31 a 75.90 (ROUGE DE BOUT) 9 Mar 18 Enemy medium TMs moderately active during day also enemy 77mm guns fired on our support areas and VC Corner.

Right Sub-Sector (Rt Bde) 10 Mar 18 Enemy 77mm guns active again today during the morning. Instructions received from Brigade that Battalions were to be reduced forthwith to battle strength. All surplus personnel were sent back to the transport lines in the evening. Corps expected enemy to make an attack in the morning. Starting at 7.pm the Bn was relieved by the 7th Norfolk Regt. Relief complete at 9.20pm. Our relief Bn moved back to billets in SAILLY – Bn HQrs at the factory.

Right Sub-Sector (Rt Bde) 11 Mar 18 Expected attack did not develop. Weather + visibility excellent today. 5 offrs + 250 ORs employed on working parties. At 6.30pm enemy put shell gas over factory at SAILLY +fired on Batteries close by.

Right Sub-Sector (Rt Bde) 12 Mar 18 Weather + visibility very good. Same working parties as yesterday provided today. At 10.30pm a hostile barrage was put down in the support line of the unit in front of us. Everything normal at 11.0pm. Official notification received that the following OR has been awarded the military medal for gallantry and devotion to duty:

No 402 Pte PARKER A

Right Sub-Sector (Rt Bde) 13 Mar 18 Visibility today excellent. Usual working parties provided today of 5 officers and 250 ORs. At 7.0pm the enemy shelled a Battery situated close to Bn HQrs. Portuguese reported an expected enemy raid or attack – nothing develops.

Right Sub-Sector (Rt Bde) 14 Mar 18 Hostile artillery very active again firing on back areas. Towards night the situation became normal. Usual working parties provided again today.

Right Sub-Sector (Rt Bde) / SAILLY 15 Mar 18 Enemy batteries again very active. A direct hit was obtained on Bn HQrs – which had to be evacuated between 8 + 9 am. During the afternoon Bn HQrs were removed to NOUVEAU MONDE in huts near the church. Situation became normal towards evening. The usual working parties were provided.

SAILLY 16 Mar 18 “D” Coy was moved from SAILLY and billeted in the vicinity of Bn HQrs. Heavy shelling during the day. During the evening SAILLY crossroads and Bridge were shelled with 60 HV 5.9 shells between 6pm and 11pm. 5 officers and 250 ORs

SAILLY 17 Mar 18 Weather + visibility excellent. Usual firing on back areas by both sides. Situation normal. Working parties as usual provided.

SAILLY 18 Mar 18 Working parties of 4 officers and 270 ORs provided for work today under RE and Div Signal Coy. Situation normal – nothing to report.

SAILLY 19 Mar 18 Very wet day. Slight decrease in artillery activity especially the firing on back areas. The same working parties as provided yesterday provided today.

SAILLY 20 Mar 18 Weather + visibility good today. Everything normal – usual working parties provided.

SAILLY 21 Mar 18 At 10.0am the Bn embossed at the Church NOUVEAU MONDE for the reserve area. Bn Billets at COTTES. All coys in billets at 2.30pm.

SAILLY 22 Mar 18 “A” Coy fired on 300 yard range at AUCHY-LE-BOIS. “B” and “D” Coys bathed at LILLERS. “C” Coy paraded in accordance with programme of work issued to Coys. Arrangements were made for Inter-platoon Football Competition.

SAILLY 23 Mar 18 “B” Coy fired on 300 yard range at AUCHY-LE-BOIS. “A” Coy bathed at LILLERS. Other companies and N.C.O’s under RSM paraded according to programme. Inter-platoon football matches 1st round was played off. Very keen platoon spirit shown. All leave cancelled. Also courses.

SAILLY 24 Mar 18 Order received early in the morning that the Battalion was to move to LAPUGNOY. Bn moved at 11am and arrived in billets at 2pm. At 8.15 pm orders received that the Battn had to embus forthwith at BURBURE. Battn marched to BURBURE and left in busses at midnight.

Travelling 25 Mar 18 Travelled all night via St POL, FREVENT, DOULLENS to WARLOY west of Albert arriving there about 9am. At 2pm Battn moved to HENENCOURT. At 5pm order received that Battn had to move up to the front line. Reserve personnel left behind. Battn marched via ALBERT under orders to take up the line north of MONTAUBAN. Soon after leaving ALBERT destination was changed to CARNOY where fresh orders would be received. At 10pm this was again altered and we received instructions to halt at the roadside and await orders.

W bank River ANCKE by AVELUY 26 Mar 18 Waited by roadside until 3am when orders were received to move back to ALBERT and take up a position on the western bank of the R ANCKE in front of AVELUY. Battn in position at 6am. Battn in touch with 7th ROYAL SUSSEX on the left but there was a gap on the right until 10am when the NORFOLKS came up and filled it. No sign of the enemy during the morning but from mid-day onwards he could be seen dribbling forwards over the high ground east of the river and down the CT’s. During the night the enemy made 2 determined attempts to cross the bridges over the ANCKE but on each occasion was driven back by M.G., L.G and rifle fire. At dusk there was much rifle fire from the direction of ALBERT and later we heard that it had been captured by the enemy.

High Ground in front of MARTINSART WOOD 27 Mar 18 At 8am enemy again attempted to cross the river but was driven back. At 8.30am the 7th NORFOLKS on our right gave way closely pursued by the enemy. Our right flank was in the air and we were forced back with the exception of a platoon of “A” Coy which held on under Capt BAUDAINS MC. “D” Coy was sent forwards to counter-attack but they cam under heavy M.G. fire and could not reach the river. They established themselves on the forward slope of the ridge running from AVELUY WOOD to AVELUY. About 11am a Coy of the 5th R BERKS counter-attacked AVELUY but were prevented from reaching their objective owing to heavy M.G. fire. Capt BAUDAINS was completely surrounded but he fought his way through and reached the high ground in rear of AVELUY. In touch with 7th R SUSEX throughout, but no sign of the 7 NORFOLKS on our right. At 5pm the enemy renewed his attacks on our position from direction of ALBERT. This was accompanied by very heavy M.G. fire and supported by many low-flying aeroplanes. Our right was again forced back and a rear-guard action was fought. A position was taken up on the high ground in front of MARTINSART WOOD at 8pm. Night spend in digging this line and in reorgainsing. 5th R BERKS took over right sector and we the left. In touch on left with ANSON Battalion on RN Div.

High Ground in front of MARTINSART WOOD 28 Mar 18 At 9am the enemy heavily attacked the left of the BERKS and the right of ourselves supported by heavy MG fire and numerous aeroplanes. He was completely driven off by M.G., L.G and artillery fire.

High Ground in front of MARTINSART WOOD 29 Mar 18 At 1am the 6th BUFFS took over the right sector of the front which the Battn was holding. At 8am orders were received to reorganise the dispositions of the Battn. Posts were established on the southern edge of AVELUY WOOD without opposition. In touch with the 7th ROYAL SUSSEX on the left and the 6th BUFFS on the right. An attempt to push out an L.G. post down the slope south of the wood was not successful owing to two hostile M.G’s. Commencing at 8.30pm the Battn was relieved by the 22nd Battn LONDON REGIMENT

WARLOY 30 Mar 18 Relief complete 12.30am. On relief Battalion moved back to billets in WARLOY arriving there 4.30am. At 11.30am Battn paraded for an inspection and address by Major General A.B. Scott CB Divnl Comdr. Remainder of day spent in cleaning, reequipment and rest

WARLOY 31 Mar 18 Rifle and L.G. inspection in morning. Voluntary services.

WARLOY 1 Apr 18 The following casualties were sustained in the recent fighting:

2/Lieut E H SIMONDS, MM Killed

2/Lieut C A Hendry

Capt G la C BAUDAINS Wounded

2/Lieut J H EELY

2/Lieut A J DIXON

2/Lieut L THOMSON

2/Lieut B MULLANE

2/Lieut J S BENSON MC

2/Lieut L WARMAN

Total casualties to ORs 187

3am. Orders were received that a hostile attack was probable in the morning and that the Battalion had to “Stand to” at 6 am. Nothing developed and the “all clear” was given at 9am.

9am. Rifle and LG inspections during the morning. Orders received that the Bn was going into the line tomorrow night. Line reconnoitered after dark by CO and OC Coys.

2 Apr 18 Rifle, LG and S.B. Respirator inspections. 7pm. Marching at 7pm Bn relieved 7th Bn LINCOLNSHIRE REGT in Left sub-sector, left Bde E of BOUZINCOURT. Dispositions:

“A” Coy Right Front, “B” Coy Centre

“C” Coy Left Front, “D” Coy Reserve

3 Apr 18 1.30am. Relief complete 1.30am. Quiet day. After dark busy wiring front line and reclaiming trench. Parties supplied by Reserve Bn and Pioneers to assist.

4 Apr 18 3pm. Quiet morning on our part of front. At 2pm enemy put down heavy barrage on our flanks, gas shells being freely employed. Everything normal by 3 pm. Weather very wet.

In the Line 5 Apr 18 7am. At 7am heavy hostile shelling on our left which had spread by 7.30am to our own front and to our right. Very heavy on BOUSINCOURT. Shelling continued heavy until 9am. At 9.5am the S.O.S. was sent up on our own right, and at 9.10am “C” Coy and “D” Coy reported that Enemy were coming over the ridge in front. S.O.S. sent up by “C” Coy and repeated at Bn HQ by Rocket and lamp. M.G’s and artillery put down a good barrage and our L Gunners and riflemen opened fire. Attack did not develop. Shelling continued heavy at 10am but died down on our own part of front towards 11am.

At 11.45am report was received from “A” Coy that enemy had penetrated the line of the 5th R BERKS on the right. The CO at once sent forward 3 Platoons of “D” Coy to counter-attack this portion of the line, over the open. They came under heavy M.G. fire but gained their objective and worked down the trench for a distance of 300 yards beyond our original right flank where a hostile bombing block was met, strongly held by the enemy. At 1.45pm one Coy of 7th R SUSSEX arrived to support us and took over the reserve line vacated by 3 platoons of “D” Coy. Remaining platoon of “D” Coy sent forward to thicken our front line.

2-4pm From 2-4pm shelling of BOUZINCOURT continued to be heavy. “D” Coy still unable to get touch with 5 R BERKS on their right.

10pm. At 10pm 2 Coys of 7th R SUSSEX attached 5 R BERKS counter-attacked to reestablish the line between ourselves and the BERKS. Owing to heavy M.G. fire they failed to gain their objective. At 11pm the 7th R SUSSEX relieved the BERKS and took over from us with one Coy the 300 yards of their trench which we had recaptured.

Our casualties during the day’s fighting:

2/Lieut F MASTERTON - Killed

2/Lieut W PARR-DUDLEY - Killed

2/Lieut A H TOZER - Wounded

2/Lieut E H J SKINNER - Wounded

2/Lieut C BAUGH - Wounded

2/Lieut C HOWE - Wounded

2/Lieut R T EAGER – Wounded (at Duty)

Total casualties to ORs – 93

In the Line 6 Apr 18 Quiet day.

6pm. At 6pm enemy put down a heavy barrage along our front and on rear areas. No infantry action followed and everything was quiet by 7pm. Bn relieved by 6th Bn R W KENTS.

HENENCOURT 7 Apr 18 1.15am. Relief complete 1.15am. On relief Bn moved back to Billets in HENENCOURT. Settled in billets 5am. Day spent in resting.

HENENCOURT 8 Apr 18 Resting. Whole Bn bathed under Regtl arrangements.

In the Line 9 Apr 18 Intermittent shelling of HENENCOURT during day.

7.45pm. From 7.45pm Bn relieved 7th NORFOLKS in right sub-sector, right Bde W of ALBERT. Order of Coys:

“C” Right front

“D” Centre

“A” Left Front

“B” Reserve

Relief complete 12 midnight.

In the Line 10 Apr 18 From 4am to 6.30am enemy heavily shelled valley between Bn HQ and MILLENCOURT with 5.9 HE and gas. Wind carried gas to our lines necessitating the wearing of respirators. Remainder of day quiet. Gas cleared away by 8am. Draft of 117 ORs arrived for the Bn. All except 40 are remaining at the Transport lines.

In the Line 11 Apr 18 Quiet night and morning. Considerable hostile aerial activity during afternoon. Two hostile planes brought down. Starting at 9pm Bn was relieved by 13th R WELCH Regt (114 Infy Bde, 38 Div)

WARLOY 12 Apr 18 Relief complete 1.15 am. On relief Bn moved back to billets at WARLOY. Settled in Billets 3am. Notification received that a big attack was expected today by the enemy on AMIENS and that from 4.45 am Bn had to be ready to move at ½ hour’s notice. Reveille 4am. Nothing developed and at 9am the front was reported clear. Bn marched at 12.30pm to billets at MIRVAUX, halting on the way for baths at CONTAY. Settled in billets at 5.30 pm.

WARLOY / MIRVAUX 13 Apr 18 Day spent in resting and clearing up. CO inspected the new draft of 117 men at 1.45pm. Mostly boys under 19 years of age.

MIRVAUX 14 Apr 18 Coy parades in morning. “A” Coy on range. Voluntary church services in afternoon and evening.

MIRVAUX 15 Apr 18 Coy parades in the morning. “B” Coy on the Range. Following men were awarded Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry near ALBERT:

19100 Sgt Bird

56277 Cpl Warren

69392 Pte Hayes

MIRVAUX 16 Apr 18 Coy parades in morning. Inspection of Transport by C.O.

MIRVAUX 17 Apr 18 Usual Coy parades. “C” Coy on the range. 2/Lt F Knight awarded military cross for conspicuous gallantry near AVELUY. Capt J H LEGGE MC Medical Officer left the Battn for 37th Fld Ambulance. Lieut E H SATHER of the U.S. Army took over his duties.

MIRVAUX 18 Apr 18 Coy parades. “D” Coy on range.

MIRVAUX 19 Apr 18 Marching at 2pm the Battalion moved via BEAUCOURT to HARPONVILLE. All under canvas. Settled in by 5.30pm.

HARPONVILLE 20 Apr 18 Large enemy attack expected to be made today by enemy on Third Army front. Bn under ½ hour’s orders to move. Nothing developed beyond artillery fire.

HARPONVILLE 21Apr 18 Voluntary church services in the morning. 400 men on working parties digging near WARLOY. Battn allotted baths at CONTAY.

HARPONVILLE 22 Apr 18 CO and O’s C Coys reconnoitered the front which the Battn will shortly be taking over. Marching at 4pm the Battalion moved to LEALVILLIERS taking over billets vacated by 7th Bn ROYAL FUSILIERS. Settled in billets by 5.30pm.

LEALVILLIERS 23 Apr 18 Undermentioned NCOs + men were awarded Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry near AVELUY and ALBERT:

34788 L/Cpl C HOLDEN

41258 L/Cpl G POTTER

13140 L/Cpl H JACKSON

47442 Pte H REVELY

16505 Pte F DENNIS

1267 Pte H BEASLEY

60723 Pte J HAMMOND

20290 Pte S CROSSLEY

Marching at 6pm Battalion took over Reserve Bn, Right Bde from 1st Bn Royal New Zealand Rifles Bde in area between Englebelmer and Mailly Maillet. Relief complete 8pm.

24 Apr 18 Our artillery active between 3am and 7am. Coy Comdrs reconnoitered both Bns in the Line

25 Apr 18 Quiet except for bursts by our artillery throughout the night. 200 men working on Front Line each night.

26 Apr 18 Both Artilleries active. “B” Coy had 4 casualties in wood north of Englebelmer. 250 men working on CT.

[Guest freemundo]

Hi Charles,

I was wondering if you could help me. I am looking for some information of on a family member called Pte. Alfred william Ross, 8th Bn Royal fusiliers. 11120. I got killed on the 15 Oct of 1915. I have the unit around Loos at this time. does this sound correct to you? I wondering also what is the best way to purchase your book 8th?

thx

danny