21st Divisional Conference notes 19 June 1916

CONFERENCE HELD AT DIVISIONAL HEADQUARTERS, 19th June, 1916.

Reference “Points for Conference”
(issued personally to officers).

1. Orders. Certain minor points in orders explained by G.O.C.

2. The Assembly and Preliminary arrangements.

Movements night X/Y.
(a) 64th Inf Bde to reconnoitre the best route.
50th Inf Bde. Brigadier to be informed of best route.
The Brigadier Commanding 62nd Bde stated that his Bns would be disposed as follows after relief:-
One in redoubts 19 and 20.
One in “ 21
One in QUEEN’S REDOUBT.
One in MEAULTE.
He did not wish to bring his Bde back to VILLE to rest.
It was agreed that M.G. Coys could go up to the line by day.
Instructions will be issued as regards “up” trenches to be used by Brigades.

(b) Drawing of Stores.
Flares. Bdes would like to draw them back in billets and take them up to the line with them.
Bombs. 63rd and 64th Bdes will draw 16,000 bombs each from the D.A.C. and dump with S.A.A. in VILLE and BUIRE – sites to be selected.
7,000 will be delivered to 62nd Bde at QUEEN’S REDOUBT, 3,000 at MEAULTE and balance from trenches.
50th Bde. 6,000 will be delivered to Bde H.Q. and another 8,000 will be sent to the trenches (making a total of 16,000 in trenches).
Picks and Shovels. – to be drawn from R.E. dumps. It was proposed to carry them slung on the back.
Bdes proposed to carry 160 shovels and 160 picks per Bn.
C.R.E. to inform Bdes where tools can be drawn.

(c) Food. – All Brigadiers wished their cookers to come up on Z night if possible, with hot drink for men, iron rations to be brought up as well. Division to decide how much transport per Bn can go up and routes.

Issues of rum to be made from first day of bombardment.

(d) – Owing to alterations of Bdes in the line, a redistribution of wire cutters and hedging gloves becomes necessary. When these articles arrive C.R.E., will issue Bdes according to amount of wire to be cut by each.

(e) – The G.O.C. wished it to be understood that all the best officers should not be included in the 25 (or less, in proportion to number available) to be taken into action on the first day.

(f) – It was left to Brigadiers to decide as to whether they would adopt suggestions made as regards dress.

(g) – The G.O.C. suggested that the new trenches to be opened up on night U/V should be held lightly by night and not at all by day; but left the matter to the discretion of the Brigadier holding the line.
It was pointed out that as the enemy might shell these new trenches heavily, continual repair might be necessary.

(h) The strong patrols are intended to ensure that the enemy is not repairing his wire. Brigadiers will be informed of the times at which these patrols can go out.

3. (a). Brigades will be distributed for attack as follows –

63rd Bde. Left. Right.
1st Line. 8 Som. L.I. 4 Middlesex Regt.
2nd Line. 8 Lincoln Regt. 10 Yorks & Lancs.

64th Bde. Left. Right.
1st Line. 10 K.O.Y.L.I. 9 K.O.Y.L.I.
2nd Line 1E. Yorks Regt. 15 Durham L.I.

62nd Bde. Left Right
1st Line. 13 North’d Fus. 10 Yorks Regt.
2nd Line. 1 Lincoln Regt. 12 North’d Fus.

(b). Ladders and bridges are ready for issue. Brigadiers wish to put them into the front trenches fairly soon. Orders re bridging of German trenches will be issued.

(c). It was decided not to push any patrols out at Zero on Z day.

(d). G.O.C. 64th Bde pointed out the difficulty of creeping up under barrage if our heavies continue firing till Zero on enemy’s front trenches and suggested that they should not fire on German front trench after 5 minutes before Zero.
The Corps to be asked about this.

(e). The question of wearing gas helmets to stand over until Corps have been consulted with reference to the position of gas shell barrage.
On Z day gas may be liberated opposite FRICOURT but nowhere else on our front.

(f). It was decided that the best way to block chalk trenches was by blowing in traverses with gun cotton.
Practice should be arranged by Bdes if not already done.

4. (a) The C.R.E. stated that 9 bridging wagons and 12 pack animals (with wire) would be sent up as soon as possible.
Brigadiers were asked to consider possibility of putting some wire on ammunition mules.

5. (a) It is proposed to try and purchase carts. If impossible Brigadiers must consider how they are going to bring up their Lewis gun drums.

The following points were brought up by G.O.C.

1. Brigadiers to consider the question of disposal of dead when positions are being consolidated.
2. Counter-attacks unless carried out at once before the enemy have had time to consolidate, must be preceded by a bombardment.
3. As far as possible every man is to be given a good idea of the operations before the attack starts.
4. Staff Officers are to be freely used to see that during the operations the comfort of the men is being looked after. This can only be done by personal inspections.
5. Orders to be issued with reference to the collection of the two bombs carried by each man. Care to be taken to see that these are not wasted by each man throwing his bombs hap-hazard.
6. The question of the 50th Bde mistaking for hostile troops men of the 63rd Bde holding the North East corner of FRICOURT WOOD, will be considered.
7. Officers in charge of the construction of strong points should get in touch, as soon as possible after consolidation begins, with Bde H.Q. of the Bde area in which these strong points are being constructed.
When complete they will be handed over to the Bde concerned.

21st Divisional Artillery Instruction 19 June 1916

SECRET
21Div.
G.428
XV Corps 1
62 Inf. Bde. 5
63 : : 5
64 : : 5
Div. Art. 2
Div. Eng. 4
Pioneers 1
Signals 1
178 Tun. Co. R.E. 1
“Q” 3
A.D.M.S. 1
A.P.M. 1
C. Comdt. 1
D.A.D.O.S. 1
7th Div. 1
17th Div. 1
34th Div. 1
50th Inf. Bde. 1
…………………………

Reference 21 Div 0.0. No 55 dated 17/6/17
…………………………………………………

The attached Appendix “M” (Continued) is forwarded for inclusion with the above quoted O.O.
Please acknowledge receipt.

A.T. Paley
Lieut-Colonel,
General Staff,
21st Division.
19/6/16

O.O. No 22 Appendix 2
Copies of paras marked to all brigades.

APPENDIX M
Continued.
CUTTING WIRES.
Infantry should be warned against indiscriminately cutting lines forward in hostile trenches, as they may be of great use in establishing communication. They should only be cut by infantry signallers, and then on the enemy’s side of the point where instrument is tapped in, so that the line may be put through when a further advance takes place.

The lines running parallel in any line in hostile trenches of which use is to be made, must also be cut towards the enemy, but there is no necessity to cut the line to pieces, as they may be of great value later.

Signal Offices in hostile trenches must be strengthened as soon as possible, and steps taken to get the hastily laid cables replaced by properly laid lines. the best opportunity for the latter will probably be the first night.

Signposts must be put up in trenches to assist bearers of messages to find Signal Offices.

Should a move to the rear be made from any position to which cables have been run, it is essential that the cables be destroyed and not left laid through enemy lines.

VISUAL SIGNALLING.
In order that a system of Visual Signalling may be successfully carried out. It is essential that messages be limited to those of absolute necessity and be kept as short as possible, usually not more than six words.
A good rule is that only messages equivalent to “Priority” should be sent by Visual.

SITES FOR STATIONS.
Sites for Sending Stations in our front line have been determined by the Divisions concerned, but it will be necessary, as the troops move forward, to select points in the enemy’s lines from which it will be possible to communicate back to Receiving Stations. These should be pointed out to signallers of assaulting infantry, who should know how to recognise the direction of the Receiving Station from the front.
Signallers will, to a large extent, have to depend on their own initiative in selecting suitable positions in enemy’s lines, from which they can use Visual, but a great deal can be done beforehand in instructing them as to the most likely point and the most suitable instrument to use, according to the background. Disc, Lamp and Helio will probably be the most suitable means of sending. The value of a large flag used behind a house or under a bank should not be lost sight of.
A certain number of French lamps are being allotted to each Division to supplement the ordinary Lamp, Electric, Field Signalling.

SIGNALLING TO THE KITE BALLOON.
To gain the attention of the Balloon, the light must be aligned on the basket and not on the Balloon.
At night a signalling lamp will be used in the Balloon, and the signal “R.D.” (“Received”) or “I.M.I.” (“Repeat”) will be used.
If more than one station calls up the Balloon simultaneously at night, the Balloon will send “M.Q”, preceded by the call letter, to the stations which it does not want to read. As soon as it has received the message from one station, it will call up one of the other stations by its station call, followed by the letter “G”, that station will then send its message.

WIRELESS.
Two Wireless Sets will be allotted to each Division.
The range of these Sets varies from 2,000 to 4,000 yards, according to the aerial it is possible to erect.
The 7th and 21st Divisions will have one Set with each Brigade in the line, which should go forward with Brigade H.Q. when it advances, and be set up in enemy’s lines.
The risk of important information being given to the enemy is so great that restrictions as to the use of wireless are essential. No message is to be sent by wireless without the express sanction of the Headquarters or Officer concerned, who is responsible for every message sent.
When it is necessary to detach a Wireless Station from its normal Headquarters, it will be necessary to detail an Officer, (not a Signal Officer) to be responsible for the messages sent by that station.

REGISTERED ADDRESSES AND TELEGRAPH CODE CALLS.
The amended list of Registered Addresses and Code Calls issued under G.307 dated 16/6/16, will be used on all occasions during operations when a code call or name is necessary, e.g. messages sent forward by telephone lines, visual, aeroplane, balloon, wireless, or pigeon. The code call will be used as station call and the registered address to denote a unit in “address to”, “text”, or “address from” of a message. These registered addresses will not be used in messages transmitted above Corps Headquarters. Corps and Divisional Signal Offices will be responsible for decoding messages for transmission beyond the Corps.

XV Corps Instruction 18 June 1916

Trench Mortars for information and action.
Please return

Taylor Capt
B.M. 21 D.A.
18.6.16

Noted E.J. Davis
Capt
O.C. T.M.B.
June 1916

SECRET.
8/4. G.X.
21st Division.
With reference to my 8/2. G.X. of 12-6-1916.
The 2” Trench Mortar Battery which has been provided with personnel from the 25th Division is not to be moved forward when the offensive commences, and must be prepared to be with-drawn from the line with a view to rejoining its Division.

Louis T Vaughan
Brigadier-General,
General Staff.
H.Q. XV Corps.
18-6-1916

21st Divisional Artillery Instruction 18 June 1916

BM.100/G

The following is substituted for BM.100 dated 18th June entitled “PATROLS” which is to be destroyed.
………………………………………………..

PATROLS.

During the nights “U”/”V” to “Y”/”Z” inclusive, patrols will be active in the sectors mentioned below, at the times stated. During these times that our patrols are out, the Brigade Commander concerned will arrange that his batteries do not fire on the German Front Line.

SECTOR OVER WHICH PATROLS WILL BE ACTIVE NIGHT OF
U/V V/W W/X X/Y Y/Z
TIME TIME TIME TIME TIME
FROM TO FROM TO FROM TO FROM TO FROM TO
78 Bde Zone 1am 3am 11pm 1am 1am 3am 1am 3am 1am 3am
94 Group Zone 11pm 1am 1am 3am 11pm 1am 1am 3am 11pm 1am
95 & 97 Zones 1am 3am 11pm 1am 1am 3am 1am 3am 1am 3am
95Bde Zone 11pm 1am 1am 3am 11pm 1am 1am 3am 11pm 1am

*****
Captain R.F.A.
Brigade Major, 21st Divisional Artillery.
18th June 1916.

XV Corps Instruction 18 June 1916

PLEASE INITIAL AND PASS QUICKLY.
For information.
Div. Comdr.
G.S.O. (1)
G.S.O. (2)
G.S.O. (3)
Div. Art.
Div. Eng.
Sigs.
A.A. & Q.M.G.
D.A.A. & Q.M.G.
D.A.Q.M.G.
A.D.C.
C. Comdt.
A.D.M.S.
D.A.D.M.S.
A.D.V.S.
A.P.M.
D.A.D.O.S.
G.S.O.
[No. 4765
[Hour 7/45 pm
[Date 18/6/16
[Initials N.F.
Connected papers.
File
SECRET.
2/28.G.X.
7th Division
17th Division.
21st Division
B.G.R.A.

1. For the purpose of the preliminary bombardment up to Zero on Z day, B.G.R.A. XV Corps will command the whole artillery of the Corps including Divisional Artillery.
2. For this purpose he will, where necessary, issue orders to the Divisional R.A. direct, repeating the orders to Divisional H.Q. at the same time.
3. Divisional R.A. will revert to the direct command of Divisional H.Q. from Zero on Z day onwards.
4. The above arrangement is made only for the purpose stated in para. 1. it will in no way interfere with the command of the Divisional Artillery by Divisional H.Q. in the case of an enemy attack.

Louis Vaughan
Brigadier-General
General Staff.
H.Q. XV Corps,
18-6-1916

XV Corps Heavy Artillery Instruction 18 June 1916

Operation Order No. 7. XV Corps H.A.

1. The XVth Corps are taking part in an offensive operation which is being carried out by the 4th Army along the whole extent of its front.

2. The objectives of the Corps are as follows:-
(1) A line running along the spur in S.25.a. X.30.a, and the line of the spur running South from CONTALMAISON to Bottom Wood.
(2) BAZENTIN LE GRAND and the defences between that VILLAGE and MONTAUBAN.
(3) GINCHY, LONGUEVAL, and DELVILLE WOOD.

3. The first objective will be gained by the simultaneous attack of two divisions in the front line advancing on the XVth Corps front, but omitting that portion of the line opposite FRICOURT and the VALLEY in which the WILLOW STREAM runs.
As soon as the 1st line has been reached the FRICOURT village and wood will be cleared by a separate operation.

4. The attack will be preceded by a bombardment lasting five days designated U. V. W. X & Y days, the day of attack being Z day.

5. On the day of attack the time of assault will be zero hour which will be notified; this will be preceded by an intense bombardment lasting 65 mins.

6. After this bombardment on Z Day, the fire of the H. Artillery will be lifted back after definite periods which are set out in the schedules attached, lifts being direct from one barrage to another; and the times of the lifts must be most strictly adhered to. In the case of the Field Artillery the lifts are made by successive jumps.

7. The FRICOURT village area is kept under fire during the whole period of the advance and when the final barrage in front of the first objective has been reached, the fire of the Heavy Artillery will be concentrated on this area prior to its being cleared, and will then be lifted back again by successive lifts to the final barrage.

8. The Corps Artillery under the orders of the Heavy Artillery Commander during the period of bombardment and at the commencement of the operations will consist of:-
2. 12” Howitzers.
4 9.2” How. Batteries.
4 8” How. Batteries.
2 6” How Batteries 30 cwt.
2 6” How. Batteries 26 cwt.
4 6” Mk. VII Guns.
5 60 Pr Batteries.
3 4.7” Batteries.
1 4.5” Howitzer Battery.
3 75 mm French Batteries.

Time tables in which definite tasks have been allotted to every battery have been issued as follows:-
Schedule A. Preliminary Bombardment V. W. X. & Y. Days.
“ B. Concentrated Bombardments on the same days.
“ C. Night Bombardments.
“ D. Preliminary Bombardment X Day.
“ E. F. G. H. I. J. K. L. Successive barrages.

These don’t include the 4.5” Howitzer Battery nor the French batteries which will be employed in counter battery work and in special tasks which are detailed in Special Schedules.

9. It is of the utmost importance that the counter battery work should be carried on during the preliminary bombardment, and also particularly during the assault.
It is of little avail destroying the enemy trenches and defences if he is still able to put up such a heavy barrage on our front line that our troops cannot advance.
The positions of the hostile batteries already disclosed are well known and can be kept under heavy fire, but it is possible that there may be other batteries, the positions of which may not yet have been disclosed. Certain batteries, namely the 128th, 130th and 1/2 Lancs heavy batteries, and the 58th Siege Battery, 6” Mk. VII Guns, are therefore told off for counter Battery work more particularly, and although they have been allotted other tasks, on a call from an aeroplane they will at once leave whatever they are doing to engage the hostile battery indicated.
If the counter battery work becomes heavy, every 60-Pdr Battery may, if necessary, be called on by the aeroplanes.
The Officers Commanding 18th & 23rd H.A. Groups will also exercise their discretion in this respect and put on any of their batteries to counter battery work if the necessity is urgent, but they will at once report having done so to Hd. Qrs. H.A.
In cases of urgent necessity the Flying Corps will also call up certain heavy howitzer batteries after reference to Hd. Qrs. H.A.: these batteries will be the 34th Siege Battery (9.2 How.) and the 78th S. Bty. (8” Hows.) and they will answer the aeroplanes calls at once, reporting to Hd. Qrs. H.A. at the same time.

10. The special bombardments which have been detailed on each day are concentrated bombardments, but are not intense in respect that the rate of fire is not increased beyond the normal rate of the guns and howitzers concerned.
The remainder of the ammunition allotted for each battery per day will be fired spread over the whole course of the day without leaving any intervals except for the special periods detailed, when photographs are being taken or for any other purpose which may be ordered.

11. During the preliminary bombardment, certain smoke and gas attacks will be delivered, as follows, provided the wind is favourable, for the purpose of leading the enemy to imagine that an assault is immanent and so cause him to man his parapets, and also to impair the efficiency of his gas helmets by causing them to be worn.

12. Smoke attack on day Y commencing at 7.20 and lasting for half an hour.
Gas attack on a night when the wind is favourable, which will be notified.

13. There will also be a Smoke Attack on Z Day on that portion of the Corps front which is not being attacked at first.
This attack will be started at 5 minutes before zero and will last one hour.

14. During the smoke attack on Y day, the bombardment will be increased in intensity for the first ten minutes and will then cease for five minutes and re-open with increased intensity for the next ten minutes.

15. If at any time during the operations from Z day onwards, re-bombardments are called for, these will last exactly half an hour from the zero time given, the last five minutes being more intense; it is clearly to be understood that if the order for re-bombardment does not reach the unit until after the zero named, the bombardment will still only go on until 30 minutes have elapsed from the zero hour originally given.

16. The boundary between the XVth & XIIIth Corps is as follows:-
F.12.c.39 – F.6.a.62.11. – track at F.6.a.89 – along the track to junction at S.25.b.45.00. – S.25.b.37.91.
On Z day, no artillery fire will be directed to the East of this line.
Fire can be maintained on CATERPILLAR WOOD throughout the day, but after three hours, no fire must fall South of the Southern edge of CATERPILLAR WOOD and the line of the stream from S.20.c.28. to S.25.b.37.91.

17. On Z day, during the advance, flares will be lit by the Infantry all along their most forward line at specified hours as follows –
9 a.m. 1 p.m. 5 p.m. 9 p.m.
They will also be lit:-
(a) on reaching the 1st objective.
(b) On reaching the 2nd objective.
(c) In the clearing operation on reaching the East edge of FRICOURT VILLAGE and ROSE TRENCH (F.4.c.35.60 – F.4.d.06.02.)

18. Distinguishing marks employed by the Infantry will be as follows
7th Division, a pink patch, 1 ft square, on the haversack, which will be worn on the back.
21st Division, not yet issued.

19. A complete liaison will be established between the following groups and the Divisions – the 14th Heavy Howitzer and the 18th Heavy Gun Group with the 7th Division, and the 21st Heavy Howitzer and 23rd Heavy Gun Group with the 21st Division.
This is in order that divisions may call direct on Heavy Guns or Howitzers, if the necessity arises, after the assault has developed, but no Heavy Howitzer Battery is to be taken off its task during the barrage period.

20. The Officer Commanding 18th & 23rd H.A. Groups will exercise their discretion as to advancing batteries during the operations on Z day, but all batteries must not advance at the same time; one battery of each group should be left to do the counter battery work until the others are in action further forward.

21. Advanced positions have been selected for Heavy & Siege Batteries and the routes to these reconnoitered as far as possible; batteries should be directed towards these positions, the guns and medium howitzers, however, will not be restricted, but will push forward as far as is found feasible.

22. The medium howitzers to be advanced first are the 59th & the 38th S. Batteries and these batteries will come under the direct orders of B.Gs, R.A., 7th & 21st Divns respectively when they advance.

23. Communication cables to observing stations have been well buried and it is trusted that telephone communication will not break down, but Officers Commanding Groups should make arrangements for visual signalling where possible as an alternative method.
It is hoped that an issue of improved Electric lamps will be made to every battery.

24. During operations on Z day, every endeavour will be made by batteries to send forward observing parties, and these parties in addition to trying to establish telephonic communication, will carry the Electric Lamps and other signalling apparatus, and will establish alternative communication with their Permanent O.P’s by these means.

25. Batteries will make arrangements to leave small parties behind at their permanent positions, when they move forward, in all cases where ammunition or other stores, which cannot be carried forward, have to be left in the positions, and reports of any ammunition thus left behind will be forwarded at once to the H.A. Hd. Qrs.

26. Reports will be sent in frequently to H.A. Hd. Qrs. During the course of operations, whether there is anything to report or not.

27. The Headquarters of the Heavy Artillery will remain at their present position until further orders.

William Napier
Brig. General. R.A.
Commdg. H.A. XVth Corps.
18:6:16

Copies to S.O. R.A. XV Corps 1
“ “ B.G. R.A. VII Div 1
“ “ “ “ 21st “ 1
“ “ “ “ 17th “ 1
“ “ 3rd H.A.G. 1
“ “ 14 H.A.G. 1
“ “ 18 H.A.G. 1
“ “ 21 H.A.G. 1
“ “ 23 H.A.G. 1
“ “ 44th S. Baty. 1
“ “ No 3 Squad R.F.C. 1
File 1

21st Divisional Artillery Instruction 18 June 1916

Ammunition

Unit V W X Y Z
A AX A AX A AX A AX A AX
94th F.A. Bde Group 1985 1215 1810 1330 1880 1280 1710 1250
95th “ “ 1040 750 1040 680 1000 780 940 620
96th “ “ 1370 1240 1370 1280 1350 1260 1370 1050
97th “ “ 1434 1010 1434 1010 1055 1280 1090 1330
78th “ “ 1775 925 1375 1643 1530 860 1540 777
How Ammunition
B BX B BX B BX B BX B BX
94th – 790 – 790 – 710 – 750
95th – 820 – 860 – 800 – 670
96th – 740 – 875 – 780 – 640
97th – – – – – – – –
78th – 742 – 798 – 700 – 682

21st Divisional Artillery Instruction 18 June 1916

Copy of G.H.Q. No O.B./21, dated 16.6.1916

In para 5. Section D Chap II, Training Manual R.F.C. Part II (page 46) it is laid down that a special prefix, followed by the sheet number and map square designation of the target, will be used as a call for artillery to open fire in case of emergency or when a specially favourable target presents itself.

By O.B./114 of July 1915, para 10, the special prefix ZZ was laid down for this purpose.

In O.B./1656 of 27.5.15, the signal ZZ was introduced as a signal from a contact patrol aeroplane that Infantry was held up by wire.

To avoid confusion, the special prefix to be used as a general call for immediate concentration of artillery fire on a certain point, as directed in para. 5, pages 46, 47 R.F.C. Training Manual, Part II, will be changed to LL.

This change will come into force from midnight June 18/19. all artillery and R.F.C. units must be warned of the change before that hour.
—————————————————–

BM.21
94th F.A. Bde.
95th -:-
96th -:-
97th -:-
78th -:-
79th -:-
——————

For information and necessary action.
The call ZZ (Infantry held up by wire) for use to contact patrol aeroplane holds good.

******
Captain R.F.A.
18th June 1916. Brigade-Major 21st Divisional Artillery

7th Divisional Artillery Operation Order 18 June 1916

Headquarters Divisional Artillery 7th Division stamp.

SECRET
*=*=*=*
Copy No 10
OPERATION ORDER No 11.

by

Brigadier-General J.G. ROTTON C.M.G.

Commanding R.A., Seventh Division.

Headquarters R.A.
18th June 1916
Issued at 9 p.m.,

Copy No 1. B.G., R.A. XVth Corps.
2. 7th Division “G”
3. 14th Brigade R.H.A. (4 copies)
4. 22nd Brigade R.F.A. (5 copies)
5. 35th Brigade R.F.A. (5 copies)
6. 80th Brigade R.F.A. (4 copies)
7. 81st Brigade R.F.A. (4 copies)
8. XV Corps H.A.
9. R.A. 18th Division.
10. R.A. 21st Division.
11. 20th Infantry Brigade.
12. 22nd Infantry Brigade.
13. 91st Infantry Brigade.
14. 50th Infantry Brigade.
15. C.R.A.
16. War Diary.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR BOMBARDMENT AND BARRAGES

Instructions and explanatory notes.

Table “I” 4.5” Howitzer bombardment “Z” day.
Table “I” (2) 4.5” Howitzer barrages “Z” day. (Tracings to units concerned)
Table “J” 18 pr. Bombardment and barrages. (Tracings to units concerned)
Table “K” Concentrated bombardments.
Table “L” Ammunition 4.5” Howitzers.
Table “L” (1) Ammunition 18-pounders.
Table “M” 9.45” Heavy Trench Mortal Bombardment “Z” day.
Table “N” 2” Trench Mortar Bombardment “Z” day.

S.G. Boddam-Whetham
Captain R.A.
Brigade Major R.A. 7th Division.

SECRET
*=*=*=*=
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORTHCOMING OPERATIONS
-and-
EXPLANATORY NOTES
—

NOTE: – THE DATE OF THE ASSAULT IS REFERRED TO AS “Z” DAY. DAYS PRECEEDING “Z” DAY WILL TAKE THE LETTERS IN REVERSED ALPHABETICAL ORDER e.g. “Y” “X” “W” etc. THIS WILL APPLY IN ALL FUTURE OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS.

1. INTENTION.
(a) In conjunction with the French, who are operating from MARICOUT southwards, the Fourth Army will assume the offensive on “Z” day, and will establish as a primary objective a line from MONTAUBAN through POZIERES and northwards passing to the south of MAMETZ WOOD.
(b) The portion of this line south and south-west of MAMETZ WOOD is allotted as the objective of the XVth Corps.
The attack will be developed to the north and south of FRICOURT VILLAGE and FRICOURT WOOD by the 21st and 7th Divisions respectively, with the object of isolating the triangle formed by these localities, which will be afterwards dealt with in a subsidiary operation.
(c) The task of the 7th Division is to clear the trenches in front and seize and occupy the spur from the track at S.25.b.58.32. to WILLOW AVENUE at X.29.b.5.6.
(d) Immediately on the right of the 7th Division the left Brigade of the 18th Division will advance simultaneously and prolong the above-mentioned line towards MONTAUBAN. The left of the 18th Division will be in the trench running from S.25.b.36.90. to S.25.b.90.45.
(e) On the left the 21st Division advancing on the north side and clear of FRICOURT VILLAGE and WOOD, will join hands with the 7th Division at WILLOW AVENUE, X.29.b.5.6. and prolong the line northwards through the QUADRANGLE towards CONTALMAISON.

Boundaries – The boundary between our right and the 18th Division will be from F.12.c.3.9. to F.6.a.75.15., track at F.6.a.8.9., thence along track running north north-east to S.25.b.58.32.
The dividing line between the 7th and 21st Division will be WILLOW AVENUE STREAM.

2. 7th DIVISION PLAN.
(a) Distribution. The 7th Division will be distributed as follows:-
On the right – the 91st Infantry Brigade from F.12.c.3.9. to F.11.d.2.7. In the centre – the 20th Infantry Brigade from F.11.d.2.7. to F.10.c.65.35 (east end of BOIS FRANCAIS craters)
On the left – the 22nd Infantry Brigade, less 2 battalions and two sections Machine Gun Company, F.10.c.65.35 to F.9.a.62.58.
(b) Main Attack. The main attack will be carried out by 91st and 20th Infantry Brigades.
(1) The dividing line between the 91st and 20th Infantry Brigades will be – from our trenches at point F.11.d.2.7. to the road junction F.5.c.45.35. in MAMETZ immediately south of the church, thence along the road running north past the Church to the northern outskirts of the village, thence to the eastern edge of BUNNY WOOD.
(2) The attack of the 91st Infantry Brigade will be divided into three phases, the completion of each phase being marked by the capture and consolidation of a definite objective.
The first objective will be the seizure of BUCKET trench, BULGAR ALLEY to DANZIG ALLEY, DANZIG ALLEY and the northern and north-eastern edge of MAMETZ.
The second objective will be FRITZ trench, VALLEY trench, and BUNNEY ALLEY.
The third objective will be the whole of the final objective allotted to the Division.
(3) The 20th Infantry Brigade will form a defensive flank facing north-westwards to cover the advance of the 91st Infantry Brigade and will seize the north-eastern outskirts of MAMETZ, ORCHARD ALLEY to its junction with Apple ALLEY, APPLE ALLEY to our front trenches.
(c) Subsidiary attack. The 22nd Infantry Brigade will clear the German trenches north of BOIS FRANCAIS at an hour to be decided later when the main attack has reached its final objective. This operation will take place in conjunction with 2 battalions of the 50th Infantry Brigade who will clear FRICOURT VILLAGE and WOOD.

ACTION OF ARTILLERY and “CO-OPERATION”
—————–

3. Artillery.
(a) A preliminary bombardment will be carried out on “U”, “V”, “W”, “X” and “Y” days. Wire will be cut during all five days.
From the night U/V, to the night Y/Z a continuous bombardment will be carried out.
2” Trench Mortars will be used for wire cutting on “U” day and afterwards as required.
240 m.m. Trench Mortars and 3” Stokes Mortars will be used as required from “V” day onwards.
(b) During the advance of the Infantry a barrage of Artillery fire will be formed in front of the infantry according to the timings shewn on the tracings issued to those concerned.
The lines shewn on the tracings indicate the nearest points on which guns will fire up to the hour indicated. At the times shewn heavy guns will lift their fire direct to the next barrage line. The Divisional Artillery will move their fire progressively at the rate of 50 yards a minute.
Should the infantry arrive at any point before the time fixed for the barrage to lift, they will wait under the best cover available and be prepared to assault directly the lift takes place.
(c) The Divisional Artillery will be grouped as follows after the completion of the preliminary bombardment:-
“A” Group. 14th Brigade R.H.A.
H.Qrs with 20th Infantry Brigade Hd.Qrs.
“F” Battery R.H.A.
“T” Battery R.H.A.
B/81 Battery (81st Brigade, 17th Division) attached
C/81 Battery (81st Brigade, 17th Division) attached
D/14 Battery R.H.A.

(20 – 18-prs. 4 – 4.5” Howitzers)

“B” Group 22nd Brigade R.F.A.
H.Qrs with 91st Infantry Brigade H.Qrs.
104th Battery R.F.A.
105th Battery R.F.A.
106th Battery R.F.A.
A/81 Battery R.F.A. (17th Division) attached.
35th Battery R.F.A. (Howitzer)

(22 – 18-prs. 4 – 4.5” Howitzers)

”C” Group 35th Brigade R.F.A.
H.Qrs with 22nd Infantry Brigade H.Qrs.
12th Battery R.F.A.
25th Battery R.F.A.
58th Battery R.F.A.
31st Battery R.F.A. (4.5” howitzers)

(18 – 18-prs. 4 – 4.5” howitzers)

Reserve Group. Headquarters GIBRALTAR.
A/80 Battery R.F.A. (17th Division) attached
B/80 Battery R.F.A. –do- attached
C/80 Battery R.F.A. –do- attached.
D/80 Battery R.F.A. (hows) –do- attached.

(12 – 18- prs. 4 – 4.5” Howitzers)

4. Instructions as to Re-bombardment.
(a) If any point or part of the enemy’s lines holds up our Infantry advance to such an extent that it is necessary to bombard again that portion of the enemy’s defence, application for re-bombardment will be made to Divisional Headquarters.
(b) The Divisional Commander will fix the zero hour at which the re-bombardment will commence. The normal re-bombardment will last 30 minutes, of which the last five minutes will be intensive. The bombardment will lift at 0-30, at which hour the infantry will assault. It is to be thoroughly understood by all ranks that the only orders regarding re-bombardment that will be issued will be a message naming the hour fixed for zero (i.e. the hour at which the re-bombardment will commence)
(c) In the event of it being found impossible by the Artillery to begin the re-bombardment at the hour fixed as zero, either the re-bombardment will begin as early as possible after zero hour and cease at 30 minutes after zero, the last five minutes being intensive, or a fresh zero hour will be fixed.

NOTES
It is essential that all concerned make themselves thoroughly acquainted with the various objectives allotted to the attacking infantry and the successive barrages which are required. There must be no pause in the fire when lifting from one barrage line to another. Batteries firing frontally will lift 50 yards a minute, commencing at the time stated in the programme, until reaching the next barrage. Batteries firing in enfilade will move their fire gradually to the next barrage by a switch equivalent to 50 yards a minute, or, if necessary, a combination of switch and range.

It must be impressed on all ranks that a sudden cessation of fire on any trench gives warning of the attack, and that too great stress cannot be laid on the importance of keeping up a steady pace of fire which will move forward ahead of, and at the same rate as, our infantry.

As regards the ring round battery barrage areas, it will be understood that the colour of the ring denotes the time at which the battery must lift off that area. Some batteries e.g. the 12th Battery, fire on the same area during two periods, and therefore the ring round its area is the colour given to all batteries which lift at the end of the second period.

Similarly, the second lift of B/80 takes it on to the area upon which it remains for the last lift.

————————————–

Machine gun emplacements, O.P’s, Trench Mortars and strong points in the enemy’s lines will be attacked by 4.5” Howitzers and 18-prs using H.E. at such times as they are not engaged on other work. Table “F” of the scheme, issued on the 14th, shewed the division of the whole area between 18-pr batteries for this purpose.
As regards Howitzers.
The 35th Battery will engage (a) of table “F”
The 31st and D/80 “ “ (b) of table “F”
And D/14 Battery “ “ (c) of table “F”

Table I
-1 hour 5 mins to 0.0

4.5” Howitzer bombardments “Z” day.

D/14 Battery SUNKEN ROAD TRENCH F.9.b.35.70 – F.9.d.8.8.
SUNKEN ROAD from front line to F.4.c.2.2.
KITCHEN TRENCH F.9.b.6.8. – F.9.b.2.2.
COPPER TRENCH F.9.b.73.98. – F.9.b.8.6.
THORN LANE F.4.c.2.2. – front line F.9.b.50.35.
THE RECTANGLE
RECTANGLE SUPPORT.

31st Battery BOIS FRANCAIS TRENCH F.9.d.8.8. – F.10.c.95.65.
BOIS FRANCAIS SUPPORT F.9.b.85.10. – F.10.d.10.90.
LIME TRENCH F.9.b.85.18. – F.10.a.34.37.
ORCHARD ALLEY from front line to its junction with PAPEN TRENCH at F.10.a.60.65.
KIEL TRENCH from junction with BOIS FRANCAIS TRENCH at F.10.c.67.52. to F.10.d.00.60.

35th Battery HIDDEN LANE from F.10.c.67.52. to F.10.b.07.20.
HELIGO LAND from F.10.d.0.6. to F.10.b.07.20. and trenches F.10.c.9.8. to F.10.d.08.80.
F.10.c.88.92. to F.10.d.10.92.
F.10.c.9.8. to F.10.a.95.10.

Mark trench F.10.a.65.17. to F.10.a.95.10.
LUKE trench F.10.a.60.05. to F.10.a.95.10.
JOHN trench F.10.a.60.01 to F.10.c.88.99

D/80 Battery SUNKEN ROAD from F.4.c.2.2. to F.10.b.2.7.
ORCHARD ALLEY from junction with PAPEN trench at F.10.a.60.65. to F.10.a.9.9.
PLUM LANE from F.10.a.99.82. to F.10.b.07.20.
DANTZIG trench from F.10.b.12.35. to F.10.b.50.46.
APPLE ALLEY from F.10.a.68.78. through F.10.a.6.2. to F.10.c.67.52.
Traversed trench from F.10.a.60.15. to F.10.a.42.39.

–oOo—

Table “I” (2)
4.5” Howitzer barrages “Z” day.
“B”
Red Ring Lift 0-15 minutes
Battery Target.

D/14 Area enclosed by F.9.b.35.60. – F.3.d.8.1. – F.4.c.7.3. –F.10.a.2.8.
D/80 Area enclosed by F.9.b.6.2. – F.10.c.0.5. – F.10.a.5.2. – F.10.a.0.6.
31st F.5.c.0.4. – F.5.c.6.4.
35th F.5.c.6.4. – F.5.d.2.7.

“C”
Green Ring Lift 0-55 minutes

D/14 F9.b.3.8. – F.9.b.8.1.
D/80 F.3.d.7.1. – F.9.b.99.45.
31st F.5.b.1.1. – F5.b.4.4.
35th X.29.b.5.5. – X.29.d.1.8.

“D”
Brown Ring Lift 2-25 minutes

D/14 F.9.b.3.8. – F.9.b.8.1.
D/80 F.3.d.7.1. – F.9.b.99.45.
31st X.29.c.9.9. – X.29.c.0.6.
35th X.29.b.5.5. – X.29.d.1.8.

“E”
Black Ring Until further orders.

D/14 F.9.b.3.8. – F9.b.8.1.
D/80 F.3.d.7.1. – F.9.b.99.45.
31st F.4.a,1.6. – F.4.a.8.8.
35th X.23.d.3.7. – X.24.c.0.7.

18-pr Bombardment and Barrage on “Z” day.

Table “J”

“A” “B”
Start -1 hour 5 mins.

Battery Blue Ring Lift 0.0 mins Red Ring. Lift 0.15.

25th F.12.a.9.4. – F.12.a.25.14. F.6.c.85.76. – F.6.c.1.6.
104th F12.a.53.73. – F.11.b.9.5. F.6.c.1.5. – F5.d.65.08.
105th F.12.a.2.2. – F.11.b.53.21. F.6.c.25.45. – F5.d.60.50.
106th F.11.b.53.21. – F11.c.96.98. F.5.d.65.08. – F.11.b.05.85.
58th F.11.c.96.98. – F.11.c.24.99. F.11.b.05.85. – F.11.a.22.70.
“F” F.11.a.46.22. – F.11.c.0.9. F.11.a.22.70. – F10.b.67.43.
C/80 F.11.c.2.9. – F.10.d.65.30. F.10.b.2.4. – F.10.c.7.6.
B/80 F.10.d.99.99. – F.10.d.70.46. F.10.b.67.43. – F.10.a.95.02.
“T” F.10.d.45.50 – F.10.c.82.80. F.10.c.43.85. – F.9.b.82.12.
A/80 F.5.c.8.1. – F.5.d.0.9. F.5.c.8.1. – F.5.d.0.9.
12th F.5.c.05.05 – F.5.c.36.95. F.5.c.05.05 – F.5.c.36.95.
B/81 X.29.d.4.2. – F.5.b.10.16. X.29.d.4.2. – F5.b.10.16.
A/81 X.29.b.5.5. – X.29.d.6.4. X.25.b.5.5. – X.29.d.6.4.
C/81 X.29.a.6.4. – X.29.d.0.3. X.29.a.6.4. – X.29.d.0.3.

Table “J” (continued)
“C” “D”

Battery Green Ring Lift 55 mins Brown Ring. Lift 2 hrs 25 mins

25th F.6.a.95.15. – F.6.a.32.20. S.25.d.6.7. – X.30.c.7.7.
104th F.5.b.88.85. – F.5.b.44.83. X.29.d.5.6. – X.30.c.15.80.
105th X.29.d.4.2. – F.5.b.10.16. X.29.d.5.6. – X.29.c.50.40.
12th F.4.b.74.32. – F.4.d.16.92. F.4.a.3.1. – F.4.b.10.60.
106th F.6.a.32.20. – F.5.b.85.60. X.30.c.7.7. – X.30.c.15.80.
58th F.5.a.42.45. – F.4.b.74.32. X.28.d.7.1. – F.4.b.05.85.
“F” F.4.c.6.4. – F4.d.2.9. F.4.a.0.0. – F.4.c.55.45.
C/80 F.10.a.2.7. – F.10.a.2.0. F.10.a.2.7. – F.10.a.2.0.
B/80 F.4.c.6.4. – F10.a.2.7. F.4.c.6.4. – F.10.a.2.7.
“T” F.10.c.43.85. – F.9.b.82.12. F.9.b.82.12. – F.9.b.35.75.
A/80 F.5.b.18.15. –F.5.a.5.4. Ceases firing.
B/81 X.29.c.5.5. – X.28.d.5.5. X.28.d.7.1. – X.29.c.45.30.
A/81 X.29.b.5.5. – X.29.d.6.4. X.29.b.5.5. – X.29.d.6.4.
C/81 X.29.a.6.4. – X.29.d.0.5. X.29.a.6.4. – X.29.d.0.5.
“E”
Black Ring. Until further orders.
25th X.29.b.7.4. – X.23.d.4.3.
104th X.23.d.4.3. – X.23.b.2.2.
105th X.30.a.3.9. – X.29.b.8.5.
12th F.4.b.1.6. – F.4.a.3.1.
106th Ceases firing.
58th Ceases firing.
“F” F.4.a.0.0. – F.4.c.55.45.
C/80 F.10.a.2.7. – F.10.a.2.0.
B/80 F.4.c.6.4. – F.10.a.2.7.
“T” F.9.b.82.12. – F.9.b.35.75.
A/80 Ceases firing.
B/81 Ceases firing.
A/81 S.25.b.6.5. – X.30.a.8.6.
C/81 X.30.a.6.9. – X.30.a.5.5.

Table “K”
Concentrated bombardments during “V” “W” “X” and “Y” days

Concentrated bombardments will take place at the following times. For description see below:-

“V” day 3-00 p.m. – 4.20 p.m. No 1 bombardment.
“W” day 8-00 a.m. – 9-20 a.m. No 2 bombardment.
“X” day 3-30 a.m. – 4-50 a.m. No 2 bombardment.
“X” day 5-30 p.m. – 6.00 p.m. No 3 bombardment.
“Y” day 5-00 a.m. – 6.20 a.m. No 3 bombardment.
”Y” day 3-00 p.m. – 4-20 p.m. No 1 bombardment.

No 1 Bombardment.
Battery. Target.

A/80 F.10.d.8.5. – F.11.c.2.8.
C/80 F.11.c.2.8. – F.11.b.0.0.
31st F.10.d.6.5. – F.10.d.9.8.
58th F.10.b.8.7. – F.11.a.2.7.
35th F.11.a.2.7. – F.11.b.15.93.
C/81 F.10.d.7.6. – F.11.a.1.0.
B/80 F.10.d.4.5. – F.10.b.90.25.
D/14 THE HALT – F.11.b.42.68.

No 2 Bombardment.
Battery. Target.

C/80 F.10.c.9.8. – F.10.d.6.5.
B/80 F.10.b.67.42. – F.10.b.82.73.
31st F.10.b.07.20. – F.10.b.15.65.
C/81 F.10.d.5.8. – F.10.d.90.95.
58th F.10.b.82.73. – F.11.b.15.93.
35th F.10.c.8.6. – F.10.d.2.4.
A/80 F.10.c.9.8. – F.10.d.6.5.
D/14 F.10.b.3.4. – F.10.b.9.3.

No 3 Bombardment.
Battery. Target.

58th F.10.b.2.4. – F.10.b.9.3.
D/14 F.11.b.42.68. – F.12.a.13.58.
B/80 F.11.b.42.68. – F.12.a.13.58.
C/80 F.4.d.35.31. – F.4.d.95.00.
A/80 F.10.b.82.73. – F.11.b.15.93.
31st F.10.a.6.2. – F.10.c.70.65.
C/81 F.11.b.0.0. – F.11.b.9.3. (DANTZIG TRENCH)
35th F.11.a.9.5. – F.11.b.42.68.

Table “L”
AMMUNITION.
4.5” Howitzers.

For the bombardment on “V”, “X”, “W” and “Y” days the rate of fire will be governed roughly by the amount of ammunition allotted in “Notes on calculation for ammunition” in Scheme issued June 14th 1916.
For intense bombardments, batteries will fire at the rate of one round per gun per minute for 10 minutes, afterwards decreasing to ½ round per gun per minute.
Ammunition for “Concentrated Bombardments” (See Table “K”) is not included in estimate of ammunition required for each days bombardment.
Rate of fire for concentrated bombardment will be half the rate for intense bombardment.
In addition to tasks enumerated, the 35th Howitzer Battery will be given 750 rounds S.K. ammunition for special purposes. Instructions as to objectives will be forwarded later to the 22nd Brigade R.F.A.
————————-

Table “L” (1) 18-pounders

During intense bombardments Batteries will fire at the rate of 1 round per gun per minute for five minutes, afterwards decreasing to half a round per gun per minute, and increasing again to 1 round per gun per minute for the last five minutes.
Instructions regarding the action of 18-prs during discharges of gas and smoke will be issued separately, but rate of fire will be governed by the rules here laid down.

Table “M”
9.45” Heavy Trench Mortar Bombardment ”Z” day.
-1 hour 5 minutes to zero.
——————————–

Battery
V.7. DANUBE TRENCH from F.10.d.65.30. to F.11.a.35.00.
DANUBE SUPPORT from F.10.d.65.55. to F.11.a.15.07.
TIRPITZ TRENCH from F.10.d.65.85. to F.11.a.05.20.
—
V.17 (Right section)
SHRINE ALLEY from F.10.d.40.85. to F.10.b.85.25.
HIDDEN WOOD.
V.17 (Left section)
AEROPLANE TRENCH.
RECTANGLE.
ORCHARD ALLEY from F.10.c.15.95. to F.10.a.45.40.

AMMUNITION 10 rounds per gun.
-*-
9.45” Heavy Trench Mortar Barrage “Z” day.
Zero to 0.10 1 round per gun.

V.7. HIDDEN LANE.

V.17. (Right section) HIDDEN WOOD.
(Left section) As for bombardment.
0.10 to 2.25 10 rounds per gun

V.7. Does not fire after 0.10

V.17. SUNKEN ROAD TRENCH.
AEROPLANE TRENCH.
RECTANGLE.
COPPER TRENCH.

Table “N”
“2” Trench Mortar Bombardment “Z” day.
-1 hour 5 minutes to zero.

Battery

X.17 Front line F.9.b.6.2. to F.9.d.95.70.
Y.17 F.9.d.95.70 to F.10.d.75.55.
Z.7 Left section KIEL TRENCH.
Y.7 F.10.d.20.40 to F.10.d.65.30.
Z.7 Right section F.10.d.95.65.
F.11.c.14.68.
X.7 Area as for preliminary bombardment.

AMMUNITION 30 rounds per gun if possible.
– * –
“2” Trench Mortar Barrage “Z” day.
Zero to 0.15
——————
Z.7., Y.7 and X.7. do not fire after zero.
X.17. From F.9.b.6.2. to F.9.d.95.70.
Y.17. From F.9.d.95.70. to F.10.d.45.65.
—
0.15 to 2.25.
——————
Y.17. Does not fire after 0.15.
X.17. From F.9.b.60.20. to F.9.d.95.70.

XV Corps message 17 June 1916

Messages and Signals form.

21st DIVL ARTILLERY

CA 46 17th

Please forward as early as possible total number of batteries (a) 18 pr (b) 4.5 How that in the event of assistance being required from either the 13th or 3rd CORPS during forthcoming operations could be brought to bear on these CORPS areas

15 CORPS ARTILLERY
3.30 p.m.

J.M.R. Harrison Major