APPENDIX 5
LIST OF HOSTILE MACHINE GUN AND TRENCH MORTAR
EMPLACEMENTS AS TARGETS FOR 3” STOKES MORTARS
MACHINE GUNS
A.9.b.90.35.
A.7.b.2.4.
A.7.b.87.26.
F.6.c.81.05.
A.3.c.5.1.
A.9.b.2.8.
A.3.c.2.0.
A.9.a.1.9.
A.8.b.58.87.
TRENCH MORTARS
F.12.a.50.35.
The above list is subject to addition or alteration according to intelligence received.
APPENDIX 4
LIST OF STRONG POINTS.
RIGHT BRIGADE.
S.26.d.63.66 Junction MONTAUBAN ALLEY and trench leading North to Battery emplacement 4640.
S.27.c.03.78. Junction MONTAUBAN ALLEY and trench leading to western side of MONTAUBAN.
A.2.b.65.75.} THE TWINS.
A.2.b.80.85.}
A.3.a.55.86. Junction of MINE ALLEY and trench North of MILL Trench.
A.2.d.76.80. Junction of MINE ALLEY and POMMIERS trench.
A.3.c.15.75. Junction of BRESLAU ALLEY and trench leading west to MINE ALLEY.
A.3.c.73.55. Junction of TRAIN ALLEY and MONTAUBAN-TALUS BOISE Road.
A.3.c.47.50. Trench in rear of DUGOUT Trench.
A.3.c.15.15. Junction of BACK LANE & BACK TRENCH.
A.9.a.30.95. Junction of VALLEY and BRESLAU Support.
CENTRE BRIGADE.
A.1.b.82.45. Junction of MONTAUBAN ALLEY and MAPLE Trench.
A.2.d.45.25. Junction of MINE ALLEY and BACK Trench.
A.1.b.86.13. Centre POMMIERS Lane.
A.1.d.95.78. Junction of POMMIERS Trench and POPOFF Lane.
A.1.d.80.30. Junction of POPOFF LANE and BUND Support.
A.2.c.30.03. Centre of BUND SUPPORT.
A.2.c.70.70. The LOOP.
A.8.a.75.93. Junction of MINE ALLEY and BUND SUPPORT.
A.2.d.20.60. Junction of MINE ALLEY and POMMIERS Trench.
A.2.a.10.85. MONTAUBAN ALLEY.
S.26.c.35.33. MONTAUBAN ALLEY.
S.26.c.77.43. Junction of LOOP Trench and MONTAUBAN ALLEY.
LEFT BRIGADE.
F.6.c.85.45. Junction of BLACK ALLEY and POMMIERS TRENCH.
F.6.a.76.15. Junction of BEETLE ALLEY and MAPLE Trench.
F.6.c.86.75. Junction of BUCKET Trench and BLACK ALLEY.
F.6.c.68.07. Junction of BUND Trench and BLACK ALLEY.
A.1.b.50.20. POMMIERS REDOUBT.
The above includes 5 strong points selected by IIIXth Corps.
Appendix 3
SCHEME FOR ARTILLERY SUPPORT.
(1). ARTILLERY AVAILABLE.
The Artillery available will probably consist of the following:-
(a). 12, 18-pounder batteries of the 18th Division.
6 18-pounder batteries of the 9th Division.
3 4.5” Howitzer Batteries of the 18th Division
1 4.5” Howitzer Battery of the 9th Division.
All batteries consist of 4 guns unless otherwise stated.
A total of 72 18-pounder guns and 16 4.5” Howitzers.
(2). OBJECTS TO BE ATTAINED BY DIVISIONAL ARTILLERY.
(a) WIRE CUTTING. 15 4 gun 18-pounder batteries – 60 guns, are allotted for this task.
(b) DESTRUCTION OF TRENCHES &c.
This will be undertaken by the Heavy Howitzers assisted by fire from the 4.5” Howitzers, and considerable damage will be caused to the hostile parapets etc by the fire of the 18-pounders during the process of wire cutting. The 4.5” Howitzers assisted by the 2” Trench Mortars on the hostile front trenches will deal with any known Machine Gun emplacements and snipers posts etc.
(c) BLOCKING OF COMMUNICATION TRENCHES.
This will be undertaken by the 4.5” howitzers assisted by enfilade fire from the 18-pounders.
(d) PREVENTING REPAIR OF THE DAMAGE CAUSED TO THE HOSTILE TRENCHES AND WIRE ENTANGLEMENTS.
This will be carried out by the 18-pounders, assisted by Machine Gun fire.
(e) THE SHELLING OF ROADS AND APPROACHES IN REAR OF THE ENEMY’S POSITION.
Those within Range of Field Artillery will be undertaken by the 18-pounders, those beyond by fire from the Counter Battery Group.
(f) DESTRUCTION OF OBSERVATION POSTS.
This will be undertaken towards the end of the bombardment..
(g) Protection of the present line in case of a surprise attack.
(h) To support the assault.
(i) To form an effective barrage of fire across the whole of the new front.
(j) To be able to place an effective barrage of fire on both flanks of the attack should the occasion arise.
(k) To deal with any special obstacles met during the attack, special guns being kept in hand for this purpose.
(3) GROUPING OF ARTILLERY.
The Artillery of the 18th Division, reinforced by six 18-pounder batteries and one 4.5” howitzer battery of the 9th Division will be grouped as follows:-
Group. Position of Commander Composition.
Head Qrs
Right BILLON VALLEY Lt. Col. D.G. 3 18-pounder batteries 84th Bde R.F.A.
Blois D.S.O. 1 4.5” Battery 84th Bde R.F.A.
1 18-pounder Battery 85th Bde R.F.A.
2 18-pounder batteries 9th Division
Total 7 Batteries
Centre BILLON WOOD Lt. Col Seagram 3 18-pounder batteries 83rd Bde R.F.A.
1 4.5” Battery 83rd Bde R.F.A.
1 18-pounder Battery 85th Bde R.F.A.
2 18-pounder batteries 9th Division
Total 7 Batteries.
Left BILLON FARM Lieut Col A. Thorpe 3 18-pounder batteries 82nd Bde R.F.A.
1 4.5” Battery 82nd Bde R.F.A.
2 18-pounder batteries 9th Division
1 18-pounder battery 85th Bde R.F.A.
1 4.5” Battery 9th Division
Total 8 Batteries
This grouping of Divisional Artillery and the positions selected for the Headquarters of each Group have been arranged with a view to simplifying the communications between the Artillery and the Infantry and thus ensuring that, as far as may be possible, close touch is maintained between the two arms throughout the operation. The Artillery Group Commander thus becomes the LIAISON Officer at each Infantry Brigade Headquarters, as long as the latter remains in its present position. Should the Infantry Brigadier move his Headquarters forward he will take with him an Artillery Officer who will act as Liaison Officer between the Brigadier and his Artillery Group Commander who will remain at his original Headquarters.
The Right Group will be affiliated to the 55th Infantry Brigade
The Centre Group will be affiliated to the 53rd Infantry Brigade.
The Left Group will be affiliated to the 54th Infantry Brigade.
The zones allotted to the three Artillery Groups are practically the same as the fronts told off to the Infantry Brigade to which they are affiliated.
(4). FORWARD GUNS.
One 18-pounder battery of each Group and one 4.5” battery attached to Centre Group will be sited within 1,600 yards of the hostile front trenches. These guns and howitzers will be available to open fire shortly before the attack, and will form the framework of the barrage of fire in front of the furthest objective, the range to this front being about 3,500 yards. In addition, the remaining guns of the Division will be capable of supporting from their present positions the new front at a range of about 5,000 yards. It should not be necessary, therefore, to have to move batteries forward during, or shortly after, the attack.
(5) LIAISON OFFICERS.
An Artillery officer will be told off for this duty to each Battalion taking part in the attack. Similarly, an Officer from each Group will be detailed to act as Liaison Officer at Infantry Brigade Headquarters in the event of this Headquarters moving forward beyond present sites selected.
(6) FIVE DAYS PRELIMINARY BOMBARDMENT.
During the five days previous to the assault, the Divisional Artillery will be engaged on the following tasks:-
(a) Wire Cutting. It is proposed in the first place to engage the wire on the front trench (and support trench where the latter is close) with Medium Trench Mortars and to complete the work of any position portion of uncut wire with 18-pounders.
For details of wire cutting by 18-pounders see Appendix “A”.
(b) Destruction of Trenches. Heavy and Medium Trench Mortars will be employed for this task on the front system of trenches, assisted by the 4.5” Howitzer batteries, who will also engage points further in the rear.
(c) Preventing repair of wire and Trenches at Night. 18-pounders and 4.5” Howitzers will be responsible for definite fronts, and subject the portions of the enemy’s trenches which have been previously destroyed to irregular bursts of fire throughout the night. The Divisional Artillery will be assisted by Machine Guns in this task.
(d) Shelling of Approaches. All approaches within range of Divisional Artillery will be subjected to barrages at irregular periods.
(e) Defensive Barrage. Definite defensive barrages will be allotted to 18-pounder batteries, in such a manner as to be able to establish a heavy barrage in the event of any German attack or minor enterprise.
(7) SUPPORT OF INFANTRY ASSAULT.
The five wire-cutting batteries from each Group will have a strip of German defences allotted to each Battery, and will be responsible for engaging all German trenches within this strip in accordance with the time table of lifts.
These strips will be exactly similar to those allotted to batteries during wire cutting, consequently, all registrations arrived at during wire cutting will form part of the general registration for support of the assault.
The Divisional Artillery lifts will be so timed as to be clear of the assaulted trenches one minute previous to stipulated time for the Infantry to reach the trench in question. During the last minute previous to each lift H.E. ammunition (5 rounds H.E. per gun) will be used exclusively by 18-pounders. It is hoped this may act as an indication to the assaulting troops that a lift is impending.
The fire of the forward batteries situated in the CARNOY valley will, in the initial stages, be kept as a reserve to deal with unforeseen contingencies, and to deal with any special portions of the line.
(8) BARRAGES TO ENSURE CONSOLIDATION OF POSITIONS GAINED.
It will at any moment during the assault be possible to establish an effective barrage, to check counter attacks and to assist in consolidation of ground.
The five batteries per group with strips of front allotted to them will be responsible for establishing a barrage at any point along their respective strips as required. In addition, the forward batteries in the CARNOY valley will be in a position to form the backbone of any barrage required at longer ranges, such as for instance in the vicinity of CATERPILLAR Wood should the final objective be attained.
Next page of original missing
(14) PREPARATION FOR FORWARD MOVE.
Two batteries from each group will be detailed to hold themselves in readiness to move forward to reinforce batteries in CARNOY Valley should occasion arise. The possible positions for these batteries are being selected, roads to them reconnoitered and necessary bridges erected.
As far as is possible, positions further in advance, on the POMMIERS RIDGE, will be selected and roads of advance to them reconnoitered with a view to their possible occupation at a later stage in the operations.
APPENDIX 2
FIGHTING POSITIONS JUST BEFORE THE ASSAULT.
Divisional Headquarters Battle Headquarters in Dug-Outs, L.16.b. ”A” & ”Q” Branches – ETINGHEM.
Right Brigade Headquarters. A.25.d.6.5.
4 Battalions Trench Mortars & M.G. Coy In forming up trenches and dug-outs North of PERONNE ROAD.
Centre Brigade Headquarters. A.25.b.4.8.
4 Battalions Trench Mortars & M.G. Coys In forming up trenches and dug-outs North of PERONNE Road.
Left Brigade Headquarters. F.24.c.Central and BRONFAY FARM.
4 Battalions Trench Mortars & M.G. Co. In forming up trenches and dug-outs North of PERONNE Road.
8th Royal Sussex Pioneers (3 Platoons with Infantry Brigades. Remainder BRAY and CARNOY Valley)
1 Troop Northumberland Hussars BRAY.
Cyclist Company BILLON FARM and BRAY.
Field Companies R.E. BRAY and CARNOY Valley (less 3 sections with Infantry Brigades).
Wagon Lines BOIS DES TAILLES.
Divisional Ammunition Column. (“A” Echelon BOIS DES TAILLES (”B” Echelon SAILLY LAURETTE.
First Line Transport GROVETOWN
Divisional Train CHIPILLY.
APPENDIX 1
DISTRIBUTION OF ATTACKING TROOPS DURING THE WAITING PERIOD
Divisional Headquarters ETINEHEM up to ”T” Day. After that day ”G” at L.16.b.3.7., A & Q ETINGHEM.
Right Brigade Headquarters A.25.d.6.5.
No 1 Battalion Front Line.
No 2 Battalion Dug-outs in Rail Avenue and CARNOY inclusive.
No 3 Battalion On line BILLON Valley – BRONFAY Farm.
No 4 Battalion BRAY.
Trench Mortars & Machine Gun Co. In the Line.
Centre Brigade Headquarters. A.25.b.4.8. and 2nd echelon in BRAY.
No 1 Battalion Front Line.
No 2 Battalion Dug-outs in RAIL AVENUE and CARNOY inclusive.
No 3 Battalion On Line BILLON Valley – BRONFAY Farm.
No 4 Battalion GROVETOWN.
Trench Mortars & Machine Gun Co. In the Line.
Left Brigade Headquarters. F.24.c. central, 2nd echelon BRONFAY FARM.
No 1 Battalion Front Line
No 2 Battalion Dug-outs in RAIL AVENUE and CARNOY inclusive.
No 3 Battalion On line BILLON Valley – BRONFAY Farm.
No 4 Battalion GROVETOWN.
Trench Mortars & Machine Gun Co. In the Line.
8th Royal Sussex Pioneers CARNOY Valley.
1 Troop Northumberland Hussars BRAY.
Cyclist Company BRAY.
Field Companies R.E. CARNOY Valley.
Wagon Lines. BOIS DES TAILLES.
Divisional Ammunition Column. SAILLY LAURETTE.
First Line Transport. GROVETOWN.
Divisional Train. Camp near CHIPILLY.
Reference Map 1/20,000 62 D.N.E. & MAUREPAS and Sunprint, 1/5,000
18th Division No Z 101
SECRET
PRELIMINARY INSTRUCTIONS FOR ATTACK.
TASKS ALLOTED TO 18TH DIVISION. 1. The tasks allotted to the 18th Division in the forthcoming Operations are:-
(1) To secure and consolidate the trenches marked with a red pencil on the attached Map and to hold them at any cost for a prolonged period against counter-attack.
(2) To secure and consolidate the ridge immediately South of CATERPILLAR WOOD. Both these objectives to be secured on the first day.
(3) On reaching the further objective, to at once push forward detachments of Infantry with Machine Guns backed by Field Artillery, in order to secure points overlooking CATERPILLAR WOOD Valley and prevent the escape of the enemy’s guns eastwards or northwards from that valley.
DIVIDING LINES. 2. The 30th Division will be on our right, the 7th Division of the XV Corps on our left. the 9th Division, XIII Corps, in Corps Reserve. Dividing lines between XIIIth Corps & XVth Corps and 30th and 18th Divisions are shewn on attached Map ”A”.
DIVISIONAL FRONT. 3. The front allotted to the 18th Division extends from the junction of trench A9/5 (A.9.a.6.5.) and BERKELEY STREET to a point 70 yards due east of point where the CARNOY – MAMETZ Road cuts trench F.13/3.
Total frontage 2,200 yards.
OBJECTIVES. 4. The objectives to be attained by the 18th Division are :-
First. (a) From Railway at A.3.c.8.6. to the trench connecting A.3.c.10.75. with A.2.d.75.90. – Point 6159 – POMMIERS REDOUBT – Junction of trenches at F.6.c.70.10
(b) As a support to the above and subsidiary to it, the consolidation of the following strong points:-
(1). Junction of trenches at A.9.a.30.95.
(2). Junction of trenches at A.2.d.05.25.
(3). Junction of trenches at A.1.d.8.3.
(4). Junction of trenches at F.6.c.85.45.
(5). Junction of trenches at F.6.c.68.07.
Second. The triangle formed by the trenches at S.27.a.7.0. along MONTAUBAN ALLEY to the junction of trenches at S.26.d.6.7. along this trench to its northern extremity at S.26.b.46.40., thence to the western extremity of the trench at S.26.a.5.6. and thence to a point on the track about S.25.b.5.2.
GENERAL PLAN. 5. The Infantry assault will take place on ”Z” day, the days previous to this being known as “Y”, “X”, “W”, “V”, “U”, “T”, “S”, &c. &c. days. The Division will attack with its three Infantry Brigades abreast.
Each Brigade will place two Battalions in front line and one in support, retaining its fourth battalion in Brigade Reserve, no Divisional Reserve is kept back.
Each Brigade has one group of Field and Howitzer Batteries affiliated to it in the closest possible co-operation. The remainder of the Divisional Artillery (and attached 9th Divisional Artillery) are given other special tasks, (see appendix 3).
Each Infantry Brigade has two communication trenches places at the disposal of its Brigadier, one UP the other DOWN.
Each Brigade has one two sections R.E. Field Company and one two Platoons Pioneers definitely allotted to it for its interior requirements.
The plan adopted aims at simplifying the work of subordinate units; it is based on the idea of launching six battalions to gain the furthest objective; it provides three more battalions to fortify and garrison the nearer objectives; it places in suitable localities three more battalions close up for the unexpected eventualities which every battle discloses. The whole Division will be used unhesitatingly to gain the objectives allotted to it by superior authority, but the mere crowding of Infantry on the POMMIERS plateau will be avoided.
FRONTAGES & OBJECTIVES. 6. Frontages and objectives allotted to Infantry Brigades (and affiliated R.F.A. Groups) are as follows:-
Frontage. Junction of trench A.9/5 with BERKELEY STREET to junction of BATTY ROAD with front trench (inclu.) – 900 yards.
First Objective. From Railway at A.3.c.8.6. (exclu.) – Junction of DUGOUT trench and BRESLAU Alley – point A.2.d.8.9. to point 2250 (excl) – 900 yards.
Second Objective. From the road junction at the west end of MONTAUBAN (S.27.c.7.4.) along the most southerly trench running through S.27.c. thence by MONTAUBAN ALLEY to the junction of the trenches at S.26.d.6.7.
Third Objective. From the triangle formed by the trenches in the South East corner of S.27.a. (inclusive), along MONTAUBAN ALLEY as far as the trench running North at S.26.d.6.7. thence along this latter trench to its northern extremity at S.26.b.46.40.
Frontage. Junction of BATTY ROAD and front trench (exclu.) to junction of YORK ROAD and trench A7/2 (inclu.) – 650 yards.
First Objective. Point 2258 (inclusive) – POMMIERS TRENCH as far as its junction with POPOFF Lane (inclu.) – 650 yards.
Second Objective. From the junction of the trenches at S.26.d.6.7., along MONTAUBAN ALLEY as far as its junction with the MONTAUBAN – MAMETZ Road (inclusive).
Third Objective. From the northern end of the trench running from N.W. to S.E. through S.26.b. (S.26.b.46.40.) (exclusive) to the western extremity of the trench running from S.26.a.88.45. to S.26.a.50.60. (inclusive)
Frontage. Junction of YORK ROAD and trench A7/2 (exclu.) to a point 70 yards due east of point where MAMETZ – CARNOY Road cuts through trench F.12/3 – 700 yards.
First Objective. Junction of POMMIERS Trench and POPOFF Lane (exclusive) – POMMIERS TRENCH to its junction with BLACK ALLEY (inclu.)
Second Objective. POMMOERS REDOUBT and the trench to the west of it as far as its junction with BEETLE ALLEY.
Third Objective. From the western extremity of the trench running from S.26.a.88.45. to S.26.a,50.60. (exclu.) to the junction between the XIIIth and XVth Corps about S.26.b.5.2.
PRELIMINARY DISTRIBUTION. 7. the distribution of attacking troops
TASKS. 8. The main tasks of the Infantry will be :-
(a) RIGHT BRIGADE.
(b) CENTRE BRIGADE.
(c) LEFT BRIGADE.
(d) Leading troops of all three Brigades on reaching their third objectives will send forward detachments with machine guns to cover the work of consolidation, establish observation posts overlooking CATERPILLAR WOOD Valley and prevent withdrawal of hostile batteries from that neighbourhood. They will be supported by Field Guns.
(e) The line Railway at A.3.c.8.6. – trench junction at A.2.d.8.9. – Point 2258 – POMMIERS trench to its junction with BLACK ALLEY, will be held at all costs against counter attacks, even if MONTAUBAN and MAMETZ should not be captured.
(f) Troops will be specially told off by each Brigade to “clean up” hostile trenches and deal with any of the enemy remaining there after the leading troops have passed over them.
STRONG POINTS. 9. To carry out the above tasks definite Infantry units will be detailed to occupy and prepare for “all round defence” certain specified localities in the hostile lines as “strong points” in case of counter attack. A list of these points is given in Appendix 4 and they are shewn on attached Sunprint. They include the strong points referred to in para. 4 (b). R.E. units will be in hand for this purpose and wire will be dumped in our front trenches beforehand. These strong points will be made by platoons, but can be garrisoned by 10 men.
PRINCIPLES OF THE ATTACK. 10. The attack will be carried out on the principles indicated below and in accordance with ”Fourth Army Tactical Notes, May 1916”.
Succeeding units will be allotted the tasks of cleaning up trenches gained and consolidating them against counter attack. The first six battalions are primarily for fighting and their job is to kill Bosches and go forward at once.
ARTILLERY. 11.
(1) 18th Division Artillery. } Divided into three Groups
(2) Half 9th Divisional Artillery } RIGHT, CENTRE and LEFT
(3) One Battery Heavy Trench Mortars.
(4) Medium Trench Mortars of 18th and 9th Divisions (6 batteries) and possibly 2 batteries in addition.
(d). In addition to the “barrage” certain Field Batteries and Howitzers will be available after the hour of assault for dealing immediately with strong points which hold up the attack. These batteries will be detailed in Operation Orders.
(e) The proposed time table of “lifts” for the Divisional Artillery is attached (see Appendix 3).
HEAVY & MEDIUM TRENCH MORTARS. 12.
(a). Sites selected for the Heavy and Medium Trench Mortars are shewn on attached Sunprint.
(b). During the bombardment and up to the assault, all Heavy and Medium Trench Mortars will be controlled by the Divisional Trench Mortar Officer who will be situated in 82nd Bde R.F.A. F.O.O. Dug-out CARNOY. Battalion Commanders will get into touch with this officer and inform him of the results of the wire-cutting operations as reported by the officers patrols which will be sent out daily. They will also call upon him direct for any assistance required for the capture of strong points.
(c) The tasks of the Heavy and Medium Trench Mortar batteries will be detailed in Operation Orders.
WIRE. 13. After the commencement of the bombardment all three Brigades will arrange to send out daily, under cover of smoke when necessary, special patrols to ascertain the damage done by our Artillery fire. Brigades must make it their business to find out what wire has or has not been cut on their front and report thereon direct to the Artillery and Trench Mortar Commanders. Wire uncut by Artillery or Trench Mortars must be dealt with by hand under cover of the bombardment before the hour of assault. These patrols will be protected by smoke from candles & hand smoke bombs under arrangements made by Brigadiers.
DISTINGUISHING MARKS. 14. The following distinguishing marks will be employed to enable the Artillery to follow the movements of the Infantry in the attack:-
STOKES MORTARS. 15.
(a) On “Z” day there will be a hurricane bombardment by 3” STOKES Mortars for 10 minutes immediately before the hour of assault, against known or suspected Machine Gun emplacements and other special points. A list of these is given in Appendix 5.
(b) Subsequent to the bombardment referred to above, 3” STOKES Mortars will be mainly employed to assist the Infantry in the capture of any strong points which may be impeding the advance.
MACHINE GUNS. 16.
A proportion of these guns will be kept ready to go forward to assist in holding the supporting points referred to in paras 4. (b) and 9.
(b) Lewis Guns are Company weapons and will go forward with the troops to assist in holding ground gained and co-operate with STOKES mortars and bombers as stated in para 15 (b). they will have a special opportunity if they can overlook CATERPILLAR Valley.
FORWARD SAPS & COMMUNICATION TRENCHES. 17
Eight underground saps are nearly completed to within 20 yards or less of the enemy’s front trenches. Mine charges will be laid at the forward ends and exploded just before the assault. The saps will be in the charge of personnel of the 183rd Tunnelling Company R.E until 24 hours after the assault. They will be responsible for the lighting of the saps and the control of traffic through them. These saps are allotted to Infantry Brigades., as under:-
55th Infantry Brigade Nos 1, 2, 3. As marked on
53rd Infantry Brigade Nos 4, 5, 6 Map attached.
54th Infantry Brigade Nos 7, 8.
Arrangements have been made to install FLAMMENWERFER in Nos 3, 4, 5, & 8 Saps.
Emplacements for Machine Guns in arrow heads opening off the saps are also being prepared to enable VICKERS Guns to enfilade the German front and support trenches just before the assault.
ACCESSORIES. 18.
(a). GAS.
Arrangements have been made for a limited instalment of Gas in suitable places along the whole front. There will be 69 emplacements for one or possibly two cylinders each. These are all suitable for a wind between S.W. and S.
(b). SMOKE. On the day of the attack, 12 4” STOKES Mortars will be available. If the wind is favourable, it is proposed to form occasional Smoke barrages against:-
(i) Certain salients in German front line to prevent flanking fire from machine guns.
(ii) Nasty Valley in centre of 18th Division attack.
(c) FLAMMENWERFER. The Flammenwerfer mentioned in para. 17 have a range of 100 yards and will be used against the German support trenches as well as the front ones for a few minutes before the assault.
They will be situated 25 yards in front of the German entanglements. In addition to the above two portable Flammenwerfer will be allotted to each Infantry Brigade. These will be used for attacks on strong points and communication trenches. Their range is 60 yards.
COMMUNICATIONS. 19. (a) Wireless. An advanced wireless station will be established by the Divisional Signal Company at A.19.a.5.8. This station will be in communication with the main wireless station at Divisional Headquarters.
Trench Sets There will be one wireless set which will move forward with the attacking troops. Its position will be determined by the Divisional Signal Company.
(b)Visual. Signalling stations will be established as shewn on attached Sunprint.
COMMUNICATION WITH AEROPLANES. 20.
XIIIth Corps Contact Patrol Aeroplanes will be distinguished by a bread black band under both lower planes and by streamers from the ends of both planes.
The firing of a white VERY Light by the aeroplane will mean “I am ready to receive a message”.
The attacking infantry will signal to aeroplane by means of
(1) Flares
(2) Mirrors
Flares and mirrors will mean “I am here and, so far as I know, within 50 yards of the actual firing line”.
These flares and mirrors will only be used when the leading Infantry have either
(a) reached their first, second or third objective
(b) have been prevented from reaching any of their objectives.
Messages to aeroplanes from Battalion and Brigade Headquarters will be sent by means of either lamps or panel shutters.
SPARE OFFICERS & SPECIALISTS. 21. Instructions regarding the number of officers who will remain in reserve have already been issued under 18th Division No. 142/2/A. dated 10th June.
Spare bombers, machine gunners and Trench Mortar personnel will also be kept back.
MAPS, ORDERS &C. 22. All Officers will be provided with maps showing the German trenches only. No orders on paper likely to be of value to the enemy to be carried.
(a) Dress, equipment and loads to be carried by the men. Arrangements for storing kit left behind and for sending it forward if required.
(b) Wearing of Gas helmets and arrangements for carrying forward Vermorel Sprayers in event of gas being used.
(c) Carrying parties and parties to repair trenches which may be partially destroyed by enemy’s fire in our lines during the five day bombardment.
(d) Provision of extra stretchers at Regimental aid posts to minimise delay in the return of stretcher bearers to the front. This is especially important owing to lack of roads for ambulances.
(e) Arrangements for blocking side trenches leading off main UP and DOWN communication trenches.
(f) Provision of direction boards and sign posts.
(g) Location of First Line Transport – two echelons.
(h) Selection on Map of suitable localities for command posts in hostile trenches. These will be arranged beforehand, roughly, by Brigadiers.
(i) Provision of personnel to put detonators into Grenades.
Covered places to be provided for this purpose.
(j)Provision of spare telephone equipment and wire at forward dumps in our lines. Also localities for future dumps in enemy’s lines.
(k) Preparation of list of officers to replace Commanders and Staff.
(l) Removal of our own wire previous to assault.
(m) Synchronizing of watches.
(n) Camouflage requirements and dummy emplacements.
The question of Ammunition, Water, Medical Arrangements, Prisoners, Stragglers and Control Posts are being dealt with by the Administrative Branch, Divisional Headquarters Staff, and instructions on these points will shortly be issued by that Staff.
MAPS ATTACHED
1/20,000,
Tracing 1/10,000 No 26
Sunprint 1/5000
A Bryant
Lieut. Colonel.
June 14th 1916. Senior General Staff Officer 18th Division.
NOTES ON CONFERENCE ON COMMUNICATIONS
Branch trenches to batteries.
Branch up to Copse B to be cut about 150 yds. S.W. from A/85.
O.P. Lines. (a) for A/85 and B/84 forward via Copse B to U Work, thence to O.P. along PERONNE Avenue. At same time to be laid back from Oxford Copse through U Work and Copse B back along “Battery command line trench” to Group H.Q. From Copse B forward these lines to be laid in communication trenches 2 feet underground. O.C. 18th Div Signal Coy. will arrange this with 30th Division.
(b) For C/84 and D/84 up to No 1 trench to PERONNE AVENUE.
(c) For A/84 up SHEFFIELD AVENUE.
Lines forward from O.P.s
At least two pairs up (a) No 1 trench & COKE AVENUE to Bn. H.Q.
two pairs up (b) SHEFFIELD & MERCHISTON AV. To Bn. H.Q.
O.C. Signal Coy will raise question of metallic circuits from O.Ps onwards. Advantage of single line —-Cable saved.
Advantage of double lines—–Eight lines ready laid to carry on into German trenches.
30th Division to lay line from Copse B in Battery command trench as lateral line from their Left Group to our Right Group.
Lines to O.P.
With regard to (a), SHEFFIELD AVENUE belongs to 55th Bde. but O.C. Signal Coy to arrange for this.
Lines from O.P. forward.
(a) 3 pairs of lines up SHEFFIELD AVENUE & BERWICK AVENUE to Battn H.Q…
(b) 2 pairs of lines up No 4 trench and MONTAUBAN Avenue to Battn H.Q.
(c) Pair of lines for B/83 with Left Group lines.
Lines to”Mystery” Trench (F.17.c).
5 lines from BILLON WOOD in lateral trench from Centre Group to Left Group H.Q., and thence via CONTOUR WOOD &DURHAM Trench.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES.
5 for Division – to be given to Battn H.Q. for use with aeroplanes only. Rather cumbersome for trench work and wasted. For signalling back to O.P. suggested.
Already issued to Infantry Brigades.
O.C. Signal Coy will enquire about their issue to Artillery.
Suggested scale – 2 per battery & Bde H.Q.
O.C. Signal Coy will send one to H.Q.R.A. for inspection.
SECRET
The following is the Scheme for the employment of the Divisional Artillery in the forthcoming operations.
The batteries will be grouped as under:-
RIGHT GROUP A/149
(Lt-Col Hon G.F B/149
Stanley, C/149
C.M.G. R.F.A. B/151
C/150
A }
B } forward batteries (9th Divn.)
C }
D/150
D/148
D/149
LEFTGROUP C/148 A/150
(under Lt-Col B/148 A/151
G.M. Ormerod, A/148 D }
R.F.A.) B/150 E } forward batteries (9th Div)
C/151 F }
Reserve How Battery (9th Div.)
1 battery in rear of front line trench from BRIQUETERIE Road to A.16.a.7.7.
1 battery in rear of front line trench from TALUS BOISE to A.9.d.0.9.
1 battery in rear of new trench in front of MACHINE GUN Wood, in emplacements dug out of communication trenches.
These batteries will assist in cutting wire and bombarding enemy’s front line trenches.
The 4 remaining 18 pr batteries S of PERONNE Road will cut wire in GLATZ REDOUBT and DUBLIN trench.
Forward batteries (less E battery) to cut wire on GLATZ REDOUBT and DUBLIN Trench.
E Battery to search the gully running N.E. from Train Alley,
C/150, A/150, A/151, and F battery (9th Divn.) will resume wire cutting of GLATZ REDOUBT and DUBLIN Trench.
Remaining 18 pr batteries on enemy’s 3rd Line trenches (including GLATZ ALLEY).
4.5” Hows will turn on to following points –
1 battery on BRIQUETERIE 1 battery on junction of SILESIA ALLEY and ALT Trench (A.3.d.7.2)
1 battery on TRAIN ALLEY
1 battery on DUBLIN Trench and CASEMENT Trench.
All these 4 4.5 How batteries except the last one named to turn on to the GLATZ REDOUBT & Dublin trench as the Infantry advance.
A/150 L
C/150 R
A/151 L
F Battery (9th Div,) L
D/150 R.
Position.
A/150 A.16. central
C/150 A.16.c.0.9.
F (9th Div) A.15.b.3.3.
How Battery (9th Div) A.15.a.2.0.
C/148 A.16.a3.1.
B/148 A.14.d.9.8.
These positions will be previously reconnoitered and prepared as far as possible, and the batteries concerned should have teams up handy by 0 + 1 hour.
** White
Brigadier General
1916 Commanding 30th Divisional Artillery.
SECRET A.B. 19/32
To
Officer Commanding
82nd Bde.
83rd Bde.
84th Bde.
(a) Position at A.14.c.1.9. to be constructed by D/82 under supervision of O.C. Left Group.
(b) Position at A.14.a.5.2. to be constructed by B/85 under supervision of O.C. Left Group.
(c) Position at F.23.d.2.5. to be constructed by A/82 under supervision of O.C. Left Group.
(d) Siege gun Position to be constructed by 82 Bde under supervision of O.C. Left Group.
(e) Position for Section at A.15.d.7.9. to be constructed by C/83 under supervision of O.C. Centre Group, D/84 to provide working party of 10 men. The arc of fire of this section should cover ground from KASINO POINT to CATERPILLAR WOOD.
(f) Position at A.20.d.4.9. to be constructed by A/83 under supervision of O.C. Right Group.
(g) Position at A.15.c.3.9. to be constructed by B/84 under supervision of O.C. Right Group, D/83 Battery to provide working party of 15 men daily.
A.F. Brooke
Captain R.A.
Brigade Major R.A. 18th Division.
12/6/16
APPENDIX OO/9
SECRET. Copy No 14
8th Divisional Artillery
OPERATION ORDER No. 9.
—————————————
12th June 1916
C.R. Gover Major R.A.
Brigade Major 8th Divnl. Arty.
Issued at 11.0 a.m.
Copies to:-
1 Right Group.
2 Left Group.
3 5th Bde R.H.A.
4 45th Bde R.F.A.
5 8th Divn.
6 32nd Div Arty.
7 A.D.V.S.
8 Signal Coy.
9 A.D.M.S.
10 Div. Train.
11 S.S.O.
12 III Corps R.A.
13 War Diary.
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