SECRET. Copy No. 1

20TH (LIGHT) DIVISION ORDER NO. 218
—————————————————————–
18th November 1917.
Ref. Map: 1/20,000, Sheets 57.c. S.E. & N.E.,
57 B. S.W. & N.W.
1. The 20th Div., in conjunction with other Divisions, as already notified in Instructions No. 1, will, on a date and at an hour to be communicated later, attack the enemy on our front.
Subsidiary attacks and feints are being carried out along the remainder of the Army Front.

2. The 12th Div. will be on the right, and the 6th Div. on the left of the 20th Div.
The 29th Div. will be in Corps Reserve, and will pass through the 20th and 6th Divns. In order to capture the heights S.W. of RUMILLY, NINE WOOD, PREMY CHAPEL.
The objectives and boundaries of the Div. are shown on the map issued with Instructions No. 1.

3. The attack will be carried out under the protection of waves of Tanks, as already detailed in Instructions No. 1 and amendments thereto.
The attack will also be supported by
(a) Standing Artillery and Smoke barrages which will open on the enemy’s front line and lift from trench to trench as the advance progresses (see Artillery barrage map issued on the 15th instant).
(b) Back and flank barrages of smoke and heavy artillery.
(c) Machine-gun barrages.
The first wave of Tanks will advance from their assembly positions 1,000 yards distance from the enemy’s front line at Zero minus 10 minutes, followed by infantry; succeeding waves are timed to advance so that they may reach their objectives without checking on intermediate objectives.
The Artillery and Machine-gun barrages will open at ZERO.
The final protective barrage beyond the second objective (BROWN line), will lift at times varying from Zero plus 210 minutes, to ZERO plus 240 minutes, to enable the Tanks to push on ands exploit the success.

4. After the capture of the BROWN Line, the Tanks will immediately exploit any success obtained as follows:-
(a) The Tanks from a Coy of ‘A’ Bn. allotted to the 60th Inf. Bde. will advance immediately to the Canal and seize the Lock and bridges at L.24.c.8.5., L.24.c.5.3., L.23.d.9.3., and L.23.d.25.05., and clear the area adjacent to the Canal Bank from G.25.b. (exclusive) to the RIBECOURT – MARCOING Railway line (exclusive).
(b) The Tanks from a Coy. allotted to the 12th Div. will proceed immediately from BONAVIS to MASNIERES, seize the bridges at G.27.a.2.0., G.26.b.4.4. and G.26.a.8.7., and form bridgeheads there.
(c) The above Tanks will maintain their positions on their objectives until relieved by the 29th Div., or in the case of (a), until the 29th Div. has passed through.
(d) Simultaneously with the action to be taken in (a), the 59th Inf. Bde. will advance and form a defensive flank from about M.2.d.9.7. to the road junction at G.26.b.3.0., obtaining touch at the first named point with the 12th Div.: and supporting, until relieved by the 29th Div., at the latter point, certain Tanks which are being pushed forward from BONAVIS to form a bridgehead about MASNIERES.
To assist the 59th Inf. Bde. in forming this defensive flank, the Tanks of one Coy. of ‘I’ Bn., hitherto covering the advance of the 61st Inf. Bde., will be attached to the 59th Inf. Bde. These Tanks will advance and clear the BONAVIS – CREVECOEUR ridge, supported on the right by the 12th Div. and in the centre and on the left by 2 Troops of the III Corps Cavalry, 1/1 Northumberland Yeomanry.
(e) The 2 Troops of Corps Cavalry above mentioned will rendezvous at Zero hour on the open ground immediately E. of FOX HILL (R.19.d.), at which hour they will come under the orders of the B.G.C. 59th Inf. Bde.
The role of the 2 Troops Corps Cavalry will be to establish posts along the BONAVIS – CREVECOEUR spur so as to deny it to the enemy, and to prevent his observation from this spur of the passage of the 29th Div. and Cavalry across the Canal at MASNIERES.
The Cavalry will be closely supported with strong detachments of infantry by the B.G.C. 59th Inf. Bde. It is intended eventually, when the Cavalry has pushed through, to establish a front facing E. along the line BONAVIS – CREVECOEUR – LA BELLE ETOILE.
(f) The 59th Inf. Bde. will support the Tanks mentioned in (a) with strong patrols followed by a company. These patrols will obtain touch with the 6th Div. at L.22.d.3.5.

5. Instructions for consolidation and for liaison posts on the flanks with neighbouring Divisions have been already issued.

6. After the capture of the heights above MASNIERES and MARCOING by the 29th Div., the 5th and 2nd Cavalry Divisions cross the Canal at the above two villages, and operate in a North-easterly direction.
7. A contact aeroplane will fly over the Corps front at
Zero plus 45 minutes,
Zero plus 2 hrs. 15 mins.,
Zero plus 3 hrs.,
Zero plus 3 hrs 30 mins.,
and subsequently as ordered.

8. Watches will be synchronised by a Staff Officer from Div. H.Q. at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Y day at the H.Q of the 61st Inf. Bde. Representatives of the 60th and 59th Inf. Bdes. will be present. Tank Bn. Commanders will synchronize their watches at the Bde. H.Q. to which they are being attached.

9. Divl. H.Q. will be at W.9.d.7.3. If operations are successful, the first move of the Divl. H.Q. will be to VILLERS PLOUICH, R.13.d.8.6., taking over the 60th Inf. Bde. H.Q.

10. All other details connected with the operations have already been issued in Instructions 1 to 6. (Instructions No. 7 is being issued to Inf. Brigadiers and B.G., R.A. only)

ACKNOWLEDGE

J.McJ Haskard
Lieut. Colonel,
General Staff, 20th Division.
Issued to Signals at 7 a.m.

Copies to :-
No. 1. G.O.C.
2. “G”
3. “A”
4. 59th Inf. Bde.
5. 60th Inf. Bde.
6. 61st Inf. Bde.
7. B.G., R.A.
8. C.R.E.
9. Div. Signal Coy.
10. Div. Pioneers.
11. A.D.M.S.
12.)
13.) 3rd Bde. Tank Corps.
14.)
15. III Corps.
16. G.O.C., R.A. III Corps.
17. 6th Div.
18. 12th Div.
19. 29th Div.
20. 59th Sqdn. R.F.C.
21. A.P.M.
22. D.M.G.O.
23. Div. M.G. Coy.
24. III Corps Cavalry.
25. Lieut. The Hon. C.F.N. Ramsay, 1/1 Northumberland Fus.
26. War Diary.
27. File,
.

On headed notepaper of
Government Controlled Establishment.
The Parsons Motor Co., Ltd.
Oil & Petrol Engine Builders
13th Nov 1918
PES/R
Mr. P. Lister,
12, Brittania Road,
Northam,
Southampton. (By hand.)
Dear Sir,
ABSENCE FROM EMPLOYMENT.
We are rather surprised to note your continued absence from the important work in progress here, and have to say that the Armistice signed by Germany does not decrease the importance of the work upon which you are engaged.
It is essential that you take up your duties without further delay.
Yours faithfully
THE PARSONS MOTOR CO: LTD: Initialled PES

SECRET.
Copy No. 1
20th Div. No. G.32.

20TH (LIGHT) DIVISION OPERATIONS
INSTRUCTIONS NO. 4.
(MEDICAL ARRANGEMENTS).

LOCATION OF MEDICAL UNITS. 1. A Prior to Zero.
(1) Battle Aid Posts. Left R.20.a.2.9. (XVI RAVINE) Right R.25.d.4.9.
(2) Relay Posts. (1) R.25.a.8.4. (HOTEL CECIL)
(2) R.19.d.3.7. (near XV RAVINE).
(3) A.D.S. GOUZEAUCOURT, Q.36.d.6.9.
(4) Div. Walking Wounded Collecting Station GOUZEAUCOURT BATHS, Q.36.b.1.4.
(5) H.Q. 60th F.A. (O.C. Bearers) & Bearer Camp, FINS V.12.c.8.8.
(6) Corps Main Dressing Station V.18.c.0.7. FINS – NURLU Road.
(7) Corps Walking Wounded Collecting Station V.18.c.0.7. – FINS – NURLU Road.
(8) Corps Sick Collecting Station. V.18.c.0.7. FINS – NURLU Road.
(9) C.C.S’s. (1) YTRES Group.
(2) TINCOURT Group.

B. At Zero.
(a). An Advanced Battle Aid Post (Right) at R.20.d.7.4. will be taken into use by the right (61st) Bde. The QUARRY (R.25.d.4.9.) will continue to be used for the Reserve Battalion of the 59th Bde. until this is ordered up by B.G.C. 59th Inf. Bde.

(b). A Forward A.D.S. (left) will be established at original left battle aid post R.20.a.2.9. (XVI RAVINE).

(c). An Advanced Battle Aid Post (left) will be established at R.14.a.8.9. (SURREY RAVINE) – destined eventually to become one of the chain of F.A. Relay Posts.

(d). A Forward A.D.S. (right) will similarly be established later at the Advanced Battle Aid Post, R.20.d.7.4.

POSITION OF MEDICAL OFFICERS. 2.

On account of the more open nature of the operations, it has not been feasible to make arrangements for any but the initial positions of Regimental Medical Officers. It has been tentatively arranged that these will be as follows at Zero.
(a). Advanced Left Battle Aid Post. R.14.a.8.9. (SURREY RAVINE). One or more M.O’s of 60th Bde.

(b). Original Left Battle Aid Post. R.20.a.2.9. (XVI RAVINE) One M.O. of 60th Bde. in Reserve until ordered up.

(c). Advanced Right Battle Aid Post. R.20.d.7.4.
(i). One or more M.O’s of 61st Bde.
(ii) One M.O. 61st Bde. remaining here in Reserve until ordered up.

(d). Original Right Battle Aid Post. (QUARRY) R.25.d.4.9.
One M.O. of 59th Bde remaining in Reserve until ordered up.

With the exception of the M.O. of each Bde. whom the B.G’s C. desire to keep in Reserve at first, all R.M.O’s will be prepared to establish R.A.P’s as situation demands.

The Line R.10. central – R.5. central is suggested as possibly suitable as a route of evacuation of wounded, while it may be found convenient to establish posts at the two points mentioned.

Should a considerable advance take place the chain of Field Ambulance posts will be pushed up by the establishment of Relay and Bearer Reserve Posts as may be necessary. The successful accomplishment of this will be largely dependant on the regularity and promptness with which the O.C. Bearers at A.D.S. GOUZEAUCOURT, is kept informed of all changes of position. The paramount importance of the above, as also of maintaining touch with posts left behind, cannot be too strongly emphasised.

EVACUATION. 3.

Cases will be conveyed as usual by Regimental Stretcher Bearers as far back as R.A.P’s, where they will be taken over by the Field Ambulance bearers who have been placed under the orders of the R.M.O. at these posts. (8 bearers to each R.A.P. of 60th and 61st Bdes., 16 in the case of 59th. These bearers will be rationed by the Battalions).

Cases will be conveyed by Relays to the Forward A.D.S’s and back to A.D.S. GOUZEAUCOURT. Wheeled stretchers will be used as much as possible for conveyance of cases back to Ambulance Car Loading Posts, which will be pushed up as far forward as possible as soon as the situation permits.

A Trolley line is being repared, and will be used as soon as the Advanced Battle Aid Post at R.20.d.7.4.4. is taken into use. By means of 4 trolley cars (capable of holding 4 lying cases each) cases will be conveyed to a Relay Post which is being constructed in the Railway Cutting at R.19.d.3.7., whence they will follow the ordinary route of evacuation to GOUZEAUCOURT.

From the A.D.S. GOUZEAUCOURT evacuation will be as follows:-

A. Lying & Sitting cases.

(i). by DECAUVILLE. A service has been arranged for lying and sitting cases by special ambulance trains conveying –
(a) Direct admissions straight through to C.C.S. at YTRES. (As many as possible).
(b) All other cases to FINS detraining point, whence a ferry service of horse ambulances will convey them to the Corps M.D.S.
(ii). Failing the Decauville by Motor Ambulance Cars direct from A.D.S. GOUZEAUCOURT, to C.C.S. at YTRES.

B. Walking Wounded.
Walking wounded will be directed to Div. W.W.C. Station established in the GOUZEAUCOURT BATHS. From here they will be conveyed by charabancs and possibly by Decauville (empty ammunition trains) to FINS, and thence to the Corps W.W. Station which has been established next to the Corps M.D.S.

From the Corps W.W. Station evacuation will be by Decauville to C.C.S’s at TINCOURT. Failing the latter a ferry service of busses will be used.

DIVISIONAL STRETCHER COY. 4.

The Divisional Stretcher Coy. has been re-organised and instructed, and will be utilised, if required, to assist in the work of clearing the battlefield. They will be controlled by O.C. Collecting F.A. (60th ) at A.D.S. (GOUZEAUCOURT) – with the exception of the section drawn from and attached to 59th Bde., which will come under orders of B.G.C. 59th Bde. at Zero, and will be rationed by the 59th Bde.

Calls for the services of the Divl Stretcher Coy. (with the exception of the 59th Bde. Section above mentioned), will be addressed to O.C. Collecting F.A., GOUZEAUCOURT A.D.S., direct.

CORPS SICK COLLECTING STATION. 5.

A Corps Sick Collecting Station has been established next to the C.M.D.S. and C.W.W.C.S. on the FINS – NURLU Road, and will deal with ALL sick, both from the forward and surrounding areas. Cases will be conveyed by charabancs or busses to the C.R.S. at MOISLAINS.

DUMPS. 6.

Dumps of Stretchers, Blankets, extra Dressings etc will be formed at Relay Posts as early as possible.

ACKNOWLEDGE.

J. McD Haskard
Lieut. Colonel,
General Staff, 20th Division.
15th Nov., 1917.

Distribution overleaf.

Copies to:–
No 1. G.O.C.
2. “G”.
3. “A”.
4. 59th Inf. Bde.
5. 60th Inf. Bde.
6. 61st Inf. Bde.
7. B.G. R.A.
8. C.R.E.
9. Divl. Signals.
10. Divl. Pioneers.
11. Divl. M.G. Coy.
12. }
13. }
14. }
15. } A.D.M.S.
16. }
17. }
18. }
19. D.M.G.O.
20. A.P.M.
21. III Corps.
22. War Diary.
23. File.

Field Service Post Card to Dick-Cunyngham’s wife dated 14 Nov 1916

I am quite well

I have been admitted to hospital sick wounded and am going on well.

I am being sent down to the base.

I have received your letter dated telegram parcel

Letter follows at first opportunity.

I have received no letter from you lately for a long time.

Signature only: J.K. Dick Cunyngham

Date Nov 14.

Addressed to Mrs J. Dick Cunyngham, 28 Coleherne Court, South Kensington. London S.W. Postmarked FIELD POST OFFICE D? dated 15 NV 16

George Ryan’s letter home dated 14 Nov 1914
S.S. “Dilwara”
Nearing Port Said
14 Nov 1913[4]

Dear Mother & F,

We left Gibraltar last Sunday at mid-day. We seemed to have been there quite a long while. It’s a nice place, I would not have minded staying there; but I was glad to leave it as we had got a long way farther to go & the sooner we get off this boat the better I shall like it. Of course we all get jolly hungry but each mess-table is only allowed a certain amount. The food is practically the same as we should get on land; bread & butter for breakfast & tea, &fresh meat & potatoes for dinner. We could generally eat double what we get. But of course we can’t get anything extra. The canteen’s jolly short of stuff; no mixed biscuits & what biscuits they have got they charge 1d for it. Oranges they bought at 3 or 4 a penny in Gib they charge 1d each. 2/- for a 2 lb tin of marmalade etc, etc. but we will soon be there now I hope, then we shall be able to make up for lost time. By all accounts we shall live alright in barracks.

We’ve had quite a smooth journey since we left Gib. The first day the sea was like a lake, but it’s not been more than choppy since. There was a thunderstorm all Thurs night; we couldn’t hear much thunder but there were flashes of lightning every half minute. It’s the rainy season along here, so the weather has not been so very grand. It doesn’t give you much warning when it does start; it’s more like a cloud burst. When we were in the harbour at Gib. we could hardly see the rock when it was raining, it was all misty.

We reckon to reach Port Said early to-morrow morning, I don’t know if we shall catch the other boats up there, they didn’t wait for us at Gib, we’ve come all the way from there by ourselves, no escort at all & we are not fitted with wireless. But we’ve met no Germans or Turks so far so I don’t suppose we shall now.

We shall not stop more than a few hours I think at Port Said, that is if the canal is clear. Then it’s 4 or 5 days journey through the Red Sea to Aden. We shall stop there 3 or 4 days as the other battalion on board is staying there. I don’t know whether we shall pick up some more in their place; I hope we don’t; we shall have a little more breathing room then. Then it’s about another 5 days journey to Bombay (or Karachi).

I’ve had the first dose of inoculation & got over it alright. There’s nothing much in it as long as you keep quiet for 24 hrs after you’ve been done.

Hope you are all quite well.
Write as much as you like
Love to all,
Yr affectn son
George

Excuse the scribble as the pencil is so small.

Dick-Cunyngham letter to wife dated 12 Nov 1916.

Letter written on Government embossed notepaper.

Saturday
My own darling one,

I’m just off to write to catch mail as I know I shan’t have time tonight. Isn’t it splendid getting back to a ‘Jock’ Divn & in H.G’s Army. I expect I shall find some old friends there.

My nose is perfectly all right, after a drive in an open car last evening – it was fairly cold motoring up.

They are all very kind & sorry I am going. I hate parting with old friends but am lucky in getting such a good Div.

All my love darling & god bless & keep you well

Ever your devoted Hubby
Jimmie

With envelope addressed to Mrs J. Dick Cunyngham, 28 Coleherne Court, South Kensington. London S.W. Endorsed On Active Service. Signed Dick Cunyngham. Passed by Censor No 21 cachet. Postmarked FIELD POST OFFICE unreadable dated 12 NV 16

George Ryan’s letter home dated 12 Nov 1915

On headed notepaper with regimental crest 9th Middlesex Regt.
Dum-dum.
India.
12 Nov 1915

Dear Ma,

Received your letter addressed to Dinapore safely. Glad to hear you got the silk alright. I hope you didn’t have to pay anything on it did you? & I hope dad won’t have to pay anything on the cigars. One of our chaps sent a box home & his father had to pay more than they cost for duty.

Please don’t think I’ve gone “dit’lo” or daft as you say at home, but we are going to Dinapore. At least, so we are given to understand at present. Of course it may be altered again. At first we were going next week, but the latest is that we go on the 9th of next month. The signalling section were to have gone last week. They got packed up & were all ready to go, but they are still here. I expect they will wait & go with us now. You can answer this to Dinapore but don’t be surprised if I tell you next week to write here again. But I think we are going this time though.

The parcel of tobacco & sweets hasn’t arrived this week, I hope I shall get them next. I was disappointed I didn’t get them this week.

Hope you are all well,
Love to all from
Yr loving son
George

G.O.C.
SECRET.
Copy No. 1
20 DNG67
SECRET.
20TH (LIGHT) DIVISION OPERATIONS. INSTRUCTIONS NO 7.
3RD STAGE.

1. As soon as the 29th Div. has captured the MASNIERES – BEAUREVOIR line, East and North of MASNIERES, its right flank, held by the 88th Inf. Bde., will rest on the Canal about G.27.c.4.8.
The 59th Inf. Bde. will push forward its left flank to get into touch with the right of the 29th Div. on the Canal at the above mentioned place.

2. In order to carry out the 3rd Stage as early as possible, it is essential that every advantage be taken of any demoralization of the enemy which may occur during the 1st and 2nd Stages to push forward Advanced Guards boldly.
It is also important that the original breach be widened as soon as possible towards both flanks by turning and operating against the flanks of the hostile troops holding the line of defence.

3. The Lucknow Cav. Bde., under the orders of G.O.C. III Corps, will be raiding Southwards in the direction of WALINCOURT for the purpose of widening the original breach.

4. In pursuance of the above object future action will be as follows:-
(a) The 29th Div. will, when they have secured the ground mentioned in para. 1 and the detachment mentioned in para. 3 have passed through, push out and hold the edge of the spur in G.23.c. & d., sending Tanks, supported by infantry, into CREVECOEUR to clear the village and seize the crossings.
(b) The 59th Inf. Bde. will move forward 2 Bns simultaneously with the advance of the 29th Div., and establish a line on the BONAVIS – CREVECOEUR ridge overlooking the LES RUES DES VIGNES, and extend this line to about G.35.a.1.9., where the right of the 29th Div. will rest. The remaining 2 Bns will move up in close support.
This line is to be at once consolidated.
On relief of the 2 Troops 1/1 Northumberland Yeo by the infantry on this position, the Cavalry will withdraw and remain with the 59th Inf. Bde. H.Q. until further orders.
(c) The 61st Inf. Bde will move to the vicinity of LES RUES VETRES, G.26. in support of the advance of the 29th Div., keeping South of the Canal.
(d) The 60th Inf. Bde. will move to about L.35.b. & d. in support of the above dispositions.

5. The action outlined above is dependent upon the course of the battle, but it is intended if possible to carry out these moves on the afternoon of ‘Z’ day, and if that is not possible, to push on at dawn on Z+1 day.

6. In order not to interfere with the rapid exploitation of successes, artillery action against the following places will cease on the hours detailed below:-
LES RUES DES VIGNES – Z plus 360
CREVECOEUR – Z plus 320
MASNIERES – Z plus 250
MARCOING – Z plus 235
Any bombardment by heavy artillery of these places after the above hours will only be carried out at the request of the Divisions concerned.
7. The further action of our troops, which is intended to set free the Cavalry for active work in a North-easterly direction, and which will take place on Z+1 day, can be outlined as follows:-
(a) At 6.15 a.m., the 61st Bde. will advance and take over the front of the 29th Div. between the Canal and H.19.a.; the point of junction between 29th Div and 61st Inf. Bde. will be on the track in H.19.a.
(b) The 60th Inf. Bde. will move into Div. Reserve at LES RUES VERTES, G.26. and be prepared to support either Bde.

8. In order to render the flank more secure, it is proposed, on ‘Z’ night, to destroy the bridges at LES RUES DES VIGNES and BANTEUX. The destruction of the bridges at LES RUES DES VIGNES will be undertaken by the 20th Div and at BANTEUX by the 12th Div.
It is also intended to clear the enemy with Tanks from the Western bank of the Canal between BANTEUX and CREVECOEUR.
The 59th Inf. Bde. will co-operate with the 12th Div in carrying out these operations, which will form the subject of subsequent orders.

9. The boundary between the 12th Div. and the 59th Inf. Bde. on the BONAVIS – CREVECOEUR spur will run from M.3.c.0.6. to the Canal at M.10.a.5.3.

ACKNOWLEDGE.

T. McN. Haskard
Lieut. Col.
General Staff, 20th Division.
18th Nov, 1917.
Copies to:-
No. 1. G.O.C.
2. “G”
3.”A”
4. 59th Inf. Bde.
5. 60th Inf. Bde.
6. 61st Inf. Bde.
7. B.G., R.A.
8. C.R.E.
9. Div. Signals.
10. A.D.M.S.
11.) 12.) 3rd Bde. Tank Corps.
13.)
14. III Corps.
15. III Corps R.A,.
16. 6th Div.
17. 12th Div.
18. 29th Div.
19. 59th Sqdn R.F.C.
20. III Corps Cavalry.
21. Lieut. The Hon. C.F.N. RAMSAY 1/1 Northumberland Yeo.
22. D.M.G.O.
23. War Diary.
24. File.

ARMY BOOK 152
CORRESPONDENCE BOOK
(FIELD SERVICE)
Opened on Nov. 1st 1916.
Started Intelligence Nov 21st 1916.
Norman Richardson
2nd Lieut S.O.
SIGNAL SECTION.
9/11/16 IV
CODE for use of DECK only.
PHRASE or Word CODE NAME
Are you alright
Stand to
Stand down
May we stand down
(a) Yes
(b) No
Gas
Alert on
Alert off
Send one Section Support from Bn H.Q.
“ “ Platoon “ “ “
One Lewis Gun wanted
I want extra S.B.
Taken over completely
Handed over completely

Reports
(a) Marching in State
(b) Situation
(c) Intelligence
(d) Sap
(e) Patrol
(f) Casualties (wounded)
(g) Casualties (killed)
(h) Trench Stores List
(i) Work
Report not received PUB
CAVE
SLACK FINISH

NEXT
BONG
SYPHON
WINSTON
Washout WINSTON
1 GLASS of PORT
1 LARGER GLASS
BUNKUM
PILLS
TOC
HOC

CROWD
LIAR
MOKE
SPADE
WALK
LIMP
GONE
STOCK
UGH
DAMU

ARMY BOOK 152
CORRESPONDENCE BOOK
(FIELD SERVICE)
Opened on Nov. 1st 1916.
Started Intelligence Nov 21st 1916.
Norman Richardson 2nd Lieut S.O.
DECK
SIGNAL SECTION.

SC 257 1/11/16
Custody of Stores.
6. The Divl Signal Company will leave behind the supernumerary officer attached to it. This officer will be in charge of any personnel remaining in the Divl area. He will collect all spare signal stores at a site selected by him, and will report to O.C. Divl Salvage Co., where this site is. All telegraphs & telephone instruments liable to injury by explosive will be collected at the nearest convenient Signal Office.
28th /10/16
————————————-

2/11/16
HEADQUARTERS RUNNERS
No Name Rank Co Date of Enlistment Age Employment Religion Remarks
1176 Pallister T.R.
Thomas Russel Lcpl B 6/1/15 25 Painter & Decorator C.E.
1152 Taylor W.
William Pte B
159 J.H. Southern
Joseph Harle “ A
1275 W.E. Laidler
William Edward “ D Number 95368
485 J.F. Davidson “ C
211 J.E. Yorke “ A
581 G.H. Robinson “ C
782 G.H. Jacob “ D
70 C.H. Goldsmith “ A
286 G.R. Harrison “ B Taken on Orderly Room

SPARE RUNNERS.
No Name Rank Co Date of Enlistment Age Employment Religion Remarks
9721

592 Johnson W.
Wilfred Allen
Purvis W.
William Pte

Pte A

A

PIGEON MEN.
No Name Rank Co Date of Enlistment Age Employment Religion Remarks Name sent in to Brigade
565 Norman R.C.
Robert Clarke Pte. H.Q. Trained X
577 Parlett G.
George Pte H.Q.

21155 Smith J.
James Pte A X
952 Moon J.W.
John William Pte A

20759 Newton J.B.
John Bould Pte B X
18265 Perry W.
William Pte B

18 Cox H.H.
Henry Henderson Pte C Prefix 20/
8341 Downey G. Pte C X

1308 Colwell M.
Mark Pte D X
602 Salkeld G
Gerald Pte D

Total 10
———————————-
30/10/16
LOCATION OF UNITS.
Unit Nearest Place Location
Bde. H.Q. HULL Thievres I.7.b.30.10
BOW Couin D.26.c.05.05.
STERN Thievres I.7.b.40.50
KEEL [less 2 Cos] Coigneux J.9.a.30.10
KEEL [2 Cos] Courcelles J.27.d.9.2.
DECK Rossignol Farm J.3.c.90.70.
RIB Coigneux J8.c.40.60.
RUDDER Sailly J.18.a.50.50.
SHIP (Advanced) Bay*** J.9.b.90.50.

——————————————————————–
9/11/16 IV
CODE for use of DECK only.
PHRASE or Word CODE NAME
Are you alright
Stand to
Stand down
May we stand down
(a) Yes
(b) No
Gas
Alert on
Alert off
Send one Section Support from Bn H.Q.
“ “ Platoon “ “ “
One Lewis Gun wanted
I want extra S.B.
Taken over completely
Handed over completely

Reports
(a) Marching in State
(b) Situation
(c) Intelligence
(d) Sap
(e) Patrol
(f) Casualties (wounded)
(g) Casualties (killed)
(h) Trench Stores List
(i) Work
Report not received PUB
CAVE
SLACK FINISH

NEXT
BONG
SYPHON
WINSTON
Washout WINSTON
1 GLASS of PORT
1 LARGER GLASS
BUNKUM
PILLS
TOC
HOC

CROWD
LIAR
MOKE
SPADE
WALK
LIMP
GONE
STOCK
UGH
DAMU

————————
DECK.
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 2 pm, 21st 11/16 till 6 am, 22nd/11/16
Operations.
1. Enemy Artillery. 4.45 pm – 6 pm: Hostile Artillery was active on our front line, chiefly on the centre and left, and on YOUNG ST and YUSSIF. “R” line also received some attention near YULE ST.
It was mostly 77 mm H.E. fired from PUISIEUX direction together with a few rounds of 5.9 and 4.2 Howitzer.
Fairly quiet during night.
2. Own Artillery. Active all night with occasional bursts. Most of the firing seemed to be on our right.
3. Enemy Trench Mortars. 5.35 pm – 6.0 pm: Somewhat active on our front line.
A Medium T.M. appeared to be firing in the direction of YUSSIF.
Aerial Torpedoes ? Reported falling near advanced post, K.3.d.30.25.
4. Machine Guns. One M.G. was active from about 11.0 pm till 1.30 am traversing ‘R’ line in the vicinity of YOUNG ST. K.3.d.50.20.
INTELLIGENCE.
Enemy movements: At 3.30 pm one of our posts saw a party of about 12 Germans leave their trench about K.4.b.40.20.
They came forward towards their wire. The post fired and they dropped down.
About 30 mins later, one man was seen to double back to the trench.
Observations: During the night a M.G. somewhere about K.11.a.central was sweeping the parapet of ’C’ line.
Our Lewis Guns replied with no apparent result.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
8.0 am.
——————————
22/11/16
DECK.
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6.0 am, to 6 pm.
Enemy Artillery: Occasional rounds were fired about midday into HEBUTERNE, mostly 77 mm.
Enemy fired about ten 77 m.m. shells on “R” line at the junction of YORKE. No damage was done.
Trench Mortars: Between 1.30 pm and 2.15 pm a few L.T.M. Bombs fell on the front line. These appeared to be fired from about K.4.c.80.65.
Machine Guns: Enemy machine guns slightly active during early morning.
INTELLIGENCE.
Enemy Aeroplanes: 11.35 am, an enemy plane over our lines.
2.15 pm, another attempted to cross our lines.
3.30 pm, aircraft active on both sides. Two enemy aeroplanes appeared to bring down one of our fighters just south of HEBUTERNE.
Sniping: After having made a careful reconnaissance of our sector, it was found that there were no sniping posts, but good positions have been chosen.
Posts are under construction at two points:-
1. K.10.a.80.60. Field of fire over K.4.c.& d; nearest point of enemy lines, 350 yds.
2. At junction of Calvarie, Thorpe & Yus Trenches. Field of fire & frontage for observation will be given later. [K.3.d.5.4.]
There has been no sniping today on either side.
The light has been very bad.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
——————————-
23rd 11/16
List of Maps
1. 49 Divn T.M. no 32 Copy 5 (1:5000)
2. Rough copy of above (NR1) (1:5000)
3. Enemy Disposition K.3 to K.24.
L.1 to L.20.
4. Sketch Map of N of Keep & NR 2 W of Thorpe 1:5000
5. 4 sketch maps of K.9. & K.10.} 1/5000
1 “ “ with dispositions.}
6. (No) 3 Sketch from 18th W Y Map (my own)

3.40 pm Y49
Retaliation called for
All ask for retaliation Y48 Y50
4.50 also
5-20 Y50 Retaliation
Situation 3.30 am 23/11/16
Enemy trench mortar activity.
Windmill B Co.
——————————-
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 pm, 22/11/16 till 6 am, 23/11/16
Operations.
Enemy’s Artillery: was inactive during this period. Two 77 mm H.E. fell near YORK ST.
Own Artillery: Fairly active during the night and at intervals in answer to calls for retaliation, from Y.48, Y.49, and Y.50.
Trench Mortars: Enemy trench mortars were extremely active at intervals of ½ hour to 1 hour all night.
Our A Co, (Right Front) received attention between 6 pm & 9 pm.
A large number of L.T.M.s were fired on ‘B’ line. Both Heavy & light were directed on ‘C’ and ‘R’ lines. There were no cases of direct hits except one on ‘C’ line, about 30 yards W of YIDDISH.
Our ‘B’ Co (centre) and our ‘C’ Co (left front) both received attention this morning. The former (Y49) got retaliation at 3.40 am from our artillery.
The enemy sent over here a very large number of H.T.M & L.T.M. bombs at first mostly on ‘C’ line to the right on YOUNG ST but later beginning at the YUSSIF advanced post, working along the wire to YOUNG ST post and then down YOUNG ST towards ‘R’ line and back along the wire in front of ‘R’ line. The top of YOUNG ST was very much damaged.
Machine Guns traversed the parapet during some of the bursts.
Our artillery put over about 60 H.E. as retaliation to a burst of T.M. fire at 4.40 am.
Our ‘C’ Co (Y50) asked for retaliation at 5.20 am.
At 5.15 am. the T.M.s all switched round and seemed to concentrate their fire on the FONQUEVILLERS sector..
INTELLIGENCE.
M.G. Hostile M.G.s were firing intermittently throughout the night.
Trench Mortars: Starlights were sent up with some of the M.T.M.s apparently to hide the track of the fuse as much as possible.
A horn was heard just previous to one of the bursts.
The T.Ms were firing apparently from about the points K.4.c.9.5. and K.3.c.9.5.
PATROL REPORTS (2)
I enclose reports. They are rather scrappy. I’ll try to get things improved. I’m sorry there are no sketches.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
8.0 pm.
2nd Lt. Bradford tells me that T.Ms seemed to be firing from Left corner looking from Mousetrap.
————————-
DECK.
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 AM, till 6 pm, 23/11/16.
OPERATIONS.
Enemy Artillery:
8 am – 10 am: Very quiet & trench mortars silent.
10 am – 12 noon: Enemy trench mortars were fairly active. Also the Artillery, with whizz bangs and a few heavy shells on HEBUTERNE.
12 – 2 pm: Occasional whizz bangs on front line and heavy shells on left of our sector & behind.
2 pm – 5 pm: Bombardment on right starting about 3.30. also a few shells in HEBUTERNE.
Enemy M.G.s: A little activity about 4.30 pm.
INTELLIGENCE.
Enemy Movement.
10.15 am Small party seen at K.4.d.4.8.
Small parties & single men seen frequently using road from Cemetery GOMMECOURT past NAMELESS FARM.
Enemy Work:
7.15 am: Working party seen in enemy front line trench at K.3.d.6.7. carrying planks of wood.
8.30 am – 9.15 am: Small working party digging & driving in stakes at K.4.c.9.4. – This was reported to R.F.A. who attended to the matter with H.Es & S. – Party ceased work.
11.0 am: Working party carrying sand bags from K.6.c.8.3. to K.6.c.6.5.
12.30 pm: Men seen walking on top of trench from K.5.a.7.2. apparently gathering wire or sticks.
Enemy Aircraft:
8.30 am } Two planes approached
9.45 am} our lines & then retired.
10.0 am Enemy aeroplane over our lines.
10.15 am “ “ “ “ “
10.45 am “ “ “ “ “
11.50 am “ “ “ “ “
2.0 pm “ “ “ “ “
Sniping:
We are working on our two posts. Sniping on both sides inactive.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
5.0 pm.
——————————
DECK.
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 pm, 23/11/16 till 6 am, 24/11/16.
Operations.
Enemy Artillery: HEBUTERNE was shelled during the night with about 30 rounds, 4.2” shells at 10 pm & 11 pm. About 20 of the same calibre came over near the Left Support Co. on the left of the village at 1.30 am and 5.0 am.
Own Artillery: carried out a prearranged programme at 9 pm, 9.45 pm & 10.30 pm; for the purpose of keeping gaps in the enemy wire open.
Enemy T.M’s: Fairly quiet. On the right of our sector a few L.T.Ms fell. Also about 20 L.T.Ms were sent over our left company frontage mostly on “B” line. No damage was done.
Enemy M.G’s: active between 4.30 pm and 7 pm traversing the parapets and striking the houses near Bn HQ.
INTELLIGENCE. (Movement)
A wiring party was heard at K.4.c.30.80. after the first burst of fire. Nothing else was heard of the enemy.
The T.Ms seemed to be firing from K.4.c.40.70.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
Note: This was not sent in till 7.40 am. It may be late.
—————————————
DECK.
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 am till 6 am, 24/11/16.
OPERATIONS.
Enemy Artillery: Enemy shelled HEBUTUERNE intermittently with 5.9” H.E., especially between 8.45 am and 9.15 am and 1.30 pm and 2 pm.
A few whizz-bangs were distributed about the trenches. Some were registered around the MOUSETRAP, also the DISUSED TRENCH, but no damage was done. One bay about 30x N of YUZ was blown in, in ‘R’ line.
Own Artillery: continuous all day.
Enemy T.M’s: silent today.
Enemy M.G’s: firing on our aircraft in the early morning..
INTELLIGENCE.
Enemy movement. Parties of men seen moving about near E.23.d.81.
Enemy Work: 7.0 am: Small party working in communication trench at K.4.c.9.4. digging – Reported to R.F.A. who shelled with H.E. – Work ceased.
7.0 am – 8.0 am: Small parties working in trench at E.30.a.90.70.to E.30.d.58.
8.30 am: Small working party at K.4.d.5.7.
Reported to Artillery who dispersed this party.
Work continued at E.30.a.90.70. as above.
11.25 am. Small working parties observed again at K.4.c.9.4. & again dispersed by our artillery.
3.45 pm: Working party started digging in cemetery GOMMECOURT
Reported to R.F.A. who opened fire on them and the party cleared off.

Sniping:
9.30 am: Four men were seen working on broken part of Trench at point K.3.d.6.5. One was observed to be using a mall. He was immediately fired on and fell face downwards into the trench. The other three at once rushed for cover. Only one of the party was observed to be wearing a steel helmet, the others round caps.
10.30 am: Two men were seen to be carrying New Wood deals into front line trench at point K.3.d.8.7. These were fired on but no hits observed.

Enemy Snipers: inactive.
Note 1. Light was bad in the morning especially between 6 am & 7 am and 8 am and 12 noon.
Note 2. Work continued on Sniping post L2 (YIDDISH)
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
————————————–
Patrol Reports (Summaries)
DECK
No Compn Time of Place of Object RESULTS
Exit Entry Exit Entry
1 1 N.C.O + 4 O.R. 6.30 pm 1 German seen walking from Bosch Sap at K.3.d.72.63. to sap at K.3.d.55.67.
2. Wiring party of 10 seen outside their wire a little right of K.3.d.69.66.

2 1 N.C.O + 4 O.R 6.30 pm 8.45 pm K.3.d.2.9. K.10.a.7.7. 1. Our Wire is about 100x from our parapet. On left of point of exit, wire is poor. On right it is much broken, but a good obstacle.
2. Ground: fair condition. Many new shell holes, with no water in them.
3. Patrol had to return, being fired on by a covering party of Bosche wiring party at a point about 300 yards half right from point of exit.
3 1 Offr + 5 O.R. 10.15 pm 11.55 pm K.10.a.25.90. Do Listening to working parties 1. Heard Bosche wiring party about K.4.c.6.6.
2. Noises from our side of line clearly audible e.g. “Fire” (batteries), Coughing & talking. Also transport.

4 1 Offr + 5 O.R. 9.35 pm 12.5 am K.3.d.3.6. 40 yds to left of point of exit. 1 Bosche Wire is a considerable distance from his trench.
2 Heard German transport distinctly.
Note: Very bad visibility

N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
——————————-
DECK.
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 pm, 24th /11/16 till 6 am, 25th /11/16
OPERATIONS.
Enemy Artillery: Exceptionally quiet during the night.
Own Artillery: fired on various targets, some shells fell short close to the MOUSETRAP. No damage was done.
Enemy T.Ms: silent.
Enemy M.Gs: fired bursts at 2.30 am and 6.50 am over HEBUTERNE.

INTELLIGENCE.
Owing to being so misty, observation rendered very difficult.
PATROL REPORTS.
Sent in by Adjutant.
I enclose summaries which I made.
[Our patrol directed 18 pdr shrapnel on to Bosche Wiring party & a covering party near K.4.c.9.4.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
—————————————
DECK.
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 am till 6 pm, 25th /11/16
OPERATIONS.
Enemy Artillery: At 11.30 am the enemy sent ten rounds of 77 mm shells into N.E. portions of HEBUTERNE.
At 12.30 pm this performance was repeated, but no damage was done.
On the whole the artillery of both sides has been very quiet today, owing to rainy & dull weather.
Enemy M.Gs: At 6.50 am, bursts of fire were directed on the left half of HEBUTERNE. This lasted till 7.0 am.
Enemy T.Ms: quiet.

INTELLIGENCE.
A very quiet day, owing to the wet & mist, observation has been very bad.
Snipers inactive on both sides.
Note: Work is still being done on Sniping Post L2 (YIDDISH)
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
—————————————
Patrol Report (Summaries)
25/26/11/16.
DECK
No Compn Time of Place of Object RESULTS
Exit Entry Exit Entry
1 1 Sgt + 4 men 9.0 pm Junction of Young St. & C line To listen for Bosche working parties U& patrols 1 Heard Bosche working party sounds coming from the N. The patrol was then at a point about K.4.c.5.3.
Note: Going was bad, owing to darkness and wet state of ground.

2 1 Offr + 1 N.C.O + 3 men 930 pm 12.0 mn K.10.a.20.90. Do To examine German wire near K.4.c.1.50. 1 When patrol reached K.4.c.4.2. they heard Bosche working party (filling sandbags) to the N.
There was a covering party.
2 Many new shell holes.
3 1 Sgt + 4 men 7.0 pm K.3.d.25.60. Do To examine wire & saps from Western corner of GOMMCT Wood. 1. Bosche Sap directly opposite point of exit was being wired. Sap is very muddy, although sounds were heard as of a man stamping his feet on bricks or cement.
2. Two flares sent up from front along hedge, slightly N of the sap.
3. This hedge seems to be on a ridge.
4. Two M.Gs opened fire from corner of hedge near sap.
Note: Night very dark for good observation. Too much wind.

4 1 N.C.O. + 4 men 9.30 pm 12.15 am K.3.d.24.60. Do As No * 1 A circular trench about 20x beyond our wire seemed to lead to head of Bosch sap at 4 bare trees.
2 Bosch working in sap head. Saw cigarette being smoked. Heard voices further back in sap.
3 Saw flashes (like electric torches) in GOMMECOURT PARK.
4 Party of 11 Bosche (3 covering party came out of their wire to the N & ****.

N. Richardson
2/Lt.
I.O.
DECK
———————————-
DECK
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 pm, 25/11/16 till 6 am, 26/11/16
OPERATIONS.
Intermittent shelling of HEBUTERNE with 5.9” & 4.2”, commencing at 5.50 pm and at intervals of five to ten minutes, till 7.0 pm. Occasional rounds were sent over during the night but on the whole, the enemy’s artillery was very quiet.
Own Artillery: very quiet.
Enemy T.Ms: 6.30 pm: Enemy noticed our wiring party at top of YUZ and put 3 minenwerfer (small) close to them. No damage was done.
Enemy M.Gs: quiet.

INTELLIGENCE.
See Patrol Summaries (enclosed)
Note: Received Quadrant Periscope from BOW.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
—————————————
DECK
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 am till 6 pm, 26/11/16
OPERATIONS.
Enemy Artillery: The morning was very quiet, owing to the rain and mist. In the afternoon it became much clearer and consequently there was greater artillery activity on both sides. A few 5.9” shells fell near the R. Support Co. H.Q. And between 3 & 4 pm shells of the same calibre (shrapnel) were directed on the batteries on the left of HEBUTERNE.
INTELLIGENCE.
Enemy Movement: sentry frequently seen at K.4.d.1.5.
10.30 am men seen going along commun trenches K.5.a.20 to K.5.a.5.2.
10.45 am Movements seen along trench K.4.d.7.9. to K.4.d.8.8. Our Artillery shelled this trench.
12.30 pm Men frequently during next hour were seen moving about trenches in the cemetery K.4.d.7.8. Our observers were unable to perceive their occupation.
1 pm – 2 pm Observation kept on point K.4.b.4.4. which we suspect to be an O.P. owing to its position & appearance.
1.15 pm man was seen to leave this position.
Men seen at intervals with full pack on.

Enemy Work
8.30 am. Working party seen in trench K.5.c.6.1. to K.c.10.95. draining trench. Reported to artillery who shelled the trench.
9.15 am. Working party in trench K.4.d.4.7. to K.4.d.7.5. This party was also draining trench & were reported to artillery.
12.45 pm. Two men in great-coats & steel helmets, with full pack were seen leaving trenches at point E.28.b.5.2.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
—————————————
27/11/16.
Maps Handed over to BOW.
1. Large Paper map. GOMMECOURT 2 B.
2. Large oilskin 1/2500.
3. 56 & 43 Aeroplane Photos
8.L.1258 “ “
4. Left Sub-sector Trench Map 1/5,000 (Paper)
5. Do 1/5,000 2 (Paper)
6. Do 1/5,000 (Linen)
7. Artillery Map
8. 1 Kite Balloon Map 11 M 186.
WJ Warner 2/Lt
KEEL.
———————————-
Patrol Report (Summaries)
26/27/11/16.
No Compn Time of Place of Object RESULTS
Exit Entry Exit Entry
1 1 Off + 4 men 6.10 pm 8.20 pm At advance front top of YOUNG ST. Do To examine enemy wire near K.3.d.4.6. 1 Found gap about point K.3.d.40.50. This gap was three yards wide, and completely through the wire. The wire was thin on each side of it.2 A German heard (& later seen) get out of a sap 30x N of this gap & march S.W.
3 Not much wire in front of S.W. corner of wood.

2 1 Sgt + 4 men
? ? At disused trench N of advanced Sap MOUSETRAP
K.3.d.30.60. Do To examine wire along N.W. side of GOMMECOURT PARK for 100 yards. 1 Observed Bosche covering party (10) at about K.3.d.50.70.
Note: mist became very heavy & party withdrew.
N. Richardson
2/Lt.
I.O.
DECK
———————————-

DECK
TACTICAL PROGRESS REPORT.
From 6 pm, 26/11/16 till 6 am, 27/11/16
OPERATIONS.
Enemy Artillery: Intermittent shelling of HEBUTERNE during the night.
At 8.10 pm, 8.30 pm and from 9.0 to 9.10 pm shells (5.9s & 4.2s) were put over near to the pond and the Aid Post at the entrance to the village.
At 10 pm about 12 rounds 77 mm were fired on ‘R’ line. No damage was done.
Own Artillery: A slow steady rate of firing was kept up with salvoes at intervals.
Enemy T.Ms: Active again.
At 4 pm yesterday the enemy opened out on to our lines with about 50 L.T.Ms.
About 9 pm he commenced again on the left & on the right.
All sizes were used, but no damage was done & the majority fell short.
At 4.0 pm yesterday, he appeared to be firing from K.4.b.10.15.
At 9.0 pm the Bosche seemed to take advantage of the mist for firing his T.Ms.
Enemy M.Gs: One M.G. kept traversing out parapets on the left at intervals. On the whole very quiet. There were bursts over the village at 6.5 and 6.10 am.
Our M.Gs: fairly active.

INTELLIGENCE.
See Patrol Reports (enclosed)
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
I.O.
DECK
———————————-
DECK. 26/11/16
REPORTS on WIRE.
A. In front of ‘C’ line.
1. The only wire is round the posts at the head of YUSSIF and the head of YOUNG ST.
2. Between these two posts there has originally been a little wire but now a clear gap, which stretches almost from post to post, has been blown, and absolutely affords no obstacles at all.
3. The wire in front of the posts is not too strong and in places at the YUSSIF post the enemy could bomb the post from the wire.
Note: A complete new system of wire is required in front of ‘C’ line. It requires putting out beyond the present wire so as to place the posts out of bombing distance.
B. Wire between ‘C’ & ‘R’ Lines.
1. The main wire is about 30 yards in front of ‘R’ trench & attached to stout wooden pickets. The wire is in fairly good condition but in places has been blown up by shell fire. The ground between the latter wire and ‘R’ line is full of shell holes and seems to have been laid with cross “trip” wire on short pickets but owing to shell fire this has been badly mangled, the broken places having been filled in with barbed concertinas. This wiring comes to within 4 yards of ‘R’ line.
2. From YUSSIF Tr to MG2 the wire is very thin.
Illustration
From MG2 the wire stretches to within 20 yards of YOUNG ST, and is old, straggling, fairly good and wide. The remainder is very poor. There are no definite gaps apparent. No concertinas or gooseberries were noticed.
N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
————————-

DECK. 27/11/16
REPORTS on Wire.
{ A. Forward of ‘C’ Line.

{B. Between ‘C’ and ‘R’ Line.

A. Forward of ‘C’ Line. In front of Left Front Co. the wire is very good; that of the Right Front Co. is not so good, but here there are stretches of entanglements and wire, old but forming effective obstacles over 100 yds into No Man’s Land.
(a) Right Front Co.
1. Patrol Report of 25/11/16. Place of exit was Left Advanced Post from YOUNG ST. “On our return journey we entered our wire about 50 yards West of the wire fence. The wire was chiefly French wire and little barbed wire was encountered. We struck the wire fence about 30 yards from its junction with ‘Z’ Hedge.”
2. Patrol Report 24/11/16. Place of exit was junction of YOUNG ST & ‘C’ LINE K.3.d.2.9. “The outer edge of our wire is about 100 yards from our parapet”—-“ We left our lines at K.3.d.2.9. and proceeded along the wooden fence which runs out in a N.E. direction. We went about 100 yards along this, the going was fairly easy and we walked all the way. The wire on the fence is still standing. On the left hand side of the fence, very little of our wire is left. On the right the wire is much broken but would form a difficult obstacle.
3. There is fairly good wire round the posts at the head of YUSSIF and also of YOUNG ST.
4. Between these two posts there has originally been a little wire but much of it has been blown away & does not afford much of an obstacle at all.
5. The wire at the YUSSIF post is within bombing range.

(b) Left Front Co. [from YUSSIF to SAP]
1. From YUSSIF to YUZ. – Good; 20 ft wide.
2. From YUZ to SAP – On the whole good; about 20 ft wide.
3. Opposite the end of YUZ: – V. Good indeed. Posts wired all round.

Page 3 of report is missing. Recommences at page 4.

B. (b) Contd
to stout wooden pickets. The wire is in fairly good condition, but in places has been blown up by shell fire.
2 The ground between the latter wire and ‘R’ LINE is full of shell holes and seems to have been laid with cross trip wire on short pickets.
But owing to shell fire this has been badly mangled, the broken places having been filled in with barbed concertinas.
This wire comes to within 4 yards of ‘R’ LINE.

N. Richardson
2nd Lt.
DECK.
——————————–
Notes on Maps in Possession.
1. About 30 57C NW Edition 4A. Achiet Le Grand.
2. About 30 57C SW “ “ Martinpuich
3. About 10 1/20,000 Puisieux
4. 1 Achiet.

——————————-
On separate leaf.

Dugouts. Left Coys Front.
1. Signallers 15 men lying supported by strong beams. 12’ cover.
2. Coy H.Q. 3 beds, supported by 6” props. 4’ cover.
3. Runners. 6 men. 8’ cover.
4. Holds 20 men. 2 entrances. 4’ top.
5. 12 men. good condition. 6’ cover.
6. Elephant dugout, holds 8. cover 3’.
7. Holds 6. Off servants. 4’ cover.

Shelters.
1. Weatherproof hold 3 men.
Others 4 each hold 4. 3’ cover.
2. 2 each hold 5 men. Corrugated iron cover
3. Patrol post. hold 4 men. Corrugated Iron cover
4. 5 others in SUPPORT LINE hold 3 men. Corrugated Iron cover.
F.C. Bootimore Lt.
D Coy
24.11.16.

Illustration of locations.