The Bedfordshire Regiment in the Great War
1916 War Diary appendices
[Note that all remarks in squared brackets are my own additions and not part of the original text]
July 1916
OPERATION
ORDER NO.6 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt. REF. Sheet LONGUEVAL 27th July. 1916
1.
The 15th Infantry Bde. will attack the village of LONGUEVAL on 27th inst.
2.
The attack will be preceded by a bombardment of 2 hours commencing at
2 hours before zero, i.e. at 5.10 A.M.
3.
(a) At ZERO i.e. 7.10 A.M. 2 Coys 1/NORFOLK RGT. will advance from their
line of assembly to the first objective. (b) The Guns will then lift onto
the 2nd line of barrage. (c) A & B Coys will occupy the trenches vacated
by two coys 1/NORFOLKS at this time.
4.
(a) At 8.10 a.m. 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS will advance to 2nd objective (b) remaining
2 coys 1/NORFOLKS will move up into trenches vacated by 2 assaulting coys
of 1/NORFOLKS (c) A.& B. Coys will move into the Trenches vacated
by last 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS (d) C. & D. Coys will occupt original line
of assembly. (e) At 8.40 A.M. Guns will lift onto final objective.
5.
(a) At 8.40 A.M. A. & B. Coys. will attack the final objective. (b)
The Guns will lift onto a line [blank] to [blank] & will stay on this
line
6.
A.Coy. will be responsible for that part of the objective lying to the
right of the road running N.-S. through LONGUEVAL.. B.Coy. to the left
of this road. (b) A.Coy. is responsible for the ORCHARD & for the
strong post at [blank]. Special attention should also be paid to the right
flank. (c) B.Coy. is responsible for the strong point at [blank]
7.
When the final objective is captured, it will be consolidated AT ONCE
& held at all costs.
8.
Green flares will be lit at 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. & on reaching the
final objective.
9.
Bn. H.Q. is in old German 2nd line at S.17.d.5/9.
10.
Aid Post is in dug out in old German 2nd Line. formerly occupied by H.Q.
1/NORFOLK Rgt.
11.
All other instructions have been issued verbally.
REPORT
ON OPERATIONS 26/28 JULY 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt 26.7.'16 11.15.P.M.
The Battalion left its Bivouac POMMIERS REDOUBT and marched to Brigade Advanced H.Q. Here owing to very heavy Barrage & poison Gas shells in the Valley the Battalion halted for two hours. The Barrage was still intense but a fresh wind made advance possible & only two cases of gas poisoning have been reported. Shell fire was moderately severe in the valley and increased as the old German Second line Trenches were approached. 27.7.'16 (Capt. Parker [Frederick Vivian PARKER] wounded).
3.50 A.M. Battn arrived in position of assembly in German 2nd Line Trenches and improved cover
5.30 A.M. Operation Orders received & communicated to Company Commanders.
7.0 A.M. A & B Coys in accordance with orders, left to take up their position in Reserve trenches at LONGUEVAL.
7.40 A.M. Report received from O.C. 1/NORFOLKS that owing to heavy shell fire, he required assistance
8.20 A.M. OC 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt arrived at H.Q. 1/NORFOLK Rgt in LONGUEVAL having arranged for A & B Coys to assault the second line in conjunction with NORFOLKS & for C & D Coys to pass through & take third line. O.C. 16/ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE Rgt was requested to occupy front line trenches when these were vacated by C & D Coys. A & B Coys had at 7.30 A.M. occupied first line at 'E' & reserve trenches at 'B'.
9.00 A.M. C Coy arrived at E D Coy arrived at B and A Coy pushed across towards German Redoubt at F where the two leading NORFOLK Coys were being held up [100 prisoners surrendered here] Lt. Fyson [Arthur James FYSON] with his platoon attacked house at G and took 32 prisoners.
9.5 A.M. C Coy advanced across PRINCES Street but were held up by Machine Gun fire from House at Cross Roads (I). This house was taken by a party of NORFOLK bombers. At the same time, two platoons of A Coy reached position marked H & K near FLERS Road where they were in touch in [sic] the ROYAL FUSILIERS on their right. A German counterattack was met with LEWIS Gun & Rifle fire, the estimated Enemy Casualties being 50. Several small posts were observed on the Ridge, apparently protected by wire.
9.30
A.M. C Coy crossed PRINCES STREET and took up a position parallel with
NORTH Street joining up the two leading NORFOLK coys. They were unable
to progress further owing to heavy Machine Gun fire from DUKE Street.
They consolidated their position. 1 Officer & 30 men went forward
from B Coy at C to reinforce a Coy of NORFOLKS at A. This coy was held
up by Machine Gun fire from direction of DUKE Street & was unable
to advance. STOKES Mortar Battery was asked to cooperate, but did not
come into action. Later, heavy Artillery was asked to bombard this post.
While awaiting this & the opportunity to advance, B & D Coys endeavoured
to improve their cover under a hurricane bombardment.
Casualties
in these two
B
Coy 2 Officers 54 O.R. out of 5 Officers & 166 O.R.
D
Coy 2 Officers 106 O.R. out of 5 Officers & 176 O.R.
6.30 P.M. ROYAL FUSILIERS on right, owing to heavy shell fire, retired and out line at K & H was slightly withdrawn to cover exposed flank.
7.0 P.M. B Coy received orders to retire to German Second Line trenches, leaving one platoon to hold line at A. A similar order was sent to D Coy but did not reach there and a second order was sent at 8.0 P.M.
9.0 P.M. C Coy tried to establish itself on East side of NORTH ST. but had to withdraw. They consolidated in touch with NORFOLKS & the SOUTH STAFFORDS of 2nd Division
28.7.'16 6 A.M. 1/D.C.L.I. & 1/E.SURREYS arrived & took over the line & the Battalion withdrew to POMMIERS Redoubt.
The total casualties were 9 Officers 303 O.R.
out of 23 Officers 807 O.R.
15th
Infy. Bde. 1st Bedfords
The
Brigadier-General Commanding wishes to express to all ranks of the Brigade
his great admiration at the magnificent manner in which they captured
the Village of LONGUEVAL yesterday. To the 1st NORFOLK Regiment and the
1st BEDFORDSHIRE Regiment and some of the 16th ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE Regiment,
who were able to get into the enemy with the bayonet, he offers his heartiest
congratulations. He knows it is what they have been waiting and wishing
for many months. The 1st CHESHIRE Regiment made a most gallant and determined
effort to reach their objective and failed through no fault of their own.
The way in which the Troops behaved under the subsequent heavy bombardment
was worthy of the best traditions of the British Army The Brigade captured
4 Officers and 159 other ranks 28/7/1916
OPERATION
ORDERS NO.7 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT. Ref. Sheet LONGUEVAL 31st July 1916
1.
The Battn. will be relieved at dark by 1/NORFOLK Rgt.
2.
On Relief Battn. will withdraw to area East of Church, where they will
get into SLIT Trenches they dug on arrival in LONGUEVAL last night.
3.
O.C. Coys. will report their arrival in this area to Battn. H.Q.
4.
O.C. Coys. will send one guide each to Bn.H.Q. at once to guide NORFOLK
coys up.
5.
Later (about 11 p.m.) the 1/CHESHIRE RGT. will arrive in the area.
6.
On arrival of 1/CHESHIRE Rgt, coys will withdraw independently to POMMIERS
Redoubt, without being relieved.
7.
O.C. Coys. will report the final departure of their coys to Bn.H.Q.
Report
on Operations 30 July - 1st August 1916. REF. Sheet LONGUEVAL 1/BEDFORDSHIRE
RGT 30.7.'16 6.45 P.M.
Orders received to reinforce in LONGUEVAL 2/K.O.S.B. holding Line. 1/R.W.Kents in support. Leading platoon moved off at 6.53 p.m. and reached LONGUEVAL at 7.45 p.m. relieving 1/R.W.KENTS
10.12 p.m. O.C. 2/K.O.S.B. reported that his men were retiring from Line S.11.d.9/5 to S.11.c.5/8. A & C Coys were directed to proceed with guides of K.O.S.B. to hold & consolidate this line. B & D Coys were directed to hold line S.11.d.9/5 to S.17.b.0/9. It was proposed to withdraw K.O.S.B. into reserve at dawn.
11.45 p.m. Message received by O.C. K.O.S.B. that GORDONS 51st DIVISION were in Sunken Road & that K.O.S.B. were to bomb towards them.
31.7.'16
12.10 A.M. Enemy started intense bombardment 12.45 A.M. Orderly returned from A & C Coys & reported K.O.S.B. Guides could not show them the way up to front line. O.C. A & C Coys were instructed to establish themselves on the Line B.C.D.E. (S.11.d.4/8 to S.11.c.5.5) & to send out patrols to ascertain if any K.O.S.B. were holding forward line.
2.30 A.M. All Coys reported heavy casualties [2 officers Killed & several wounded]. B & D Coys reported themselves to be in position as ordered from S.11.d.5/5 to S.11.b.0/9. Two wounded prisoners were taken by 'A' Coy. Reinforcements had been asked for at 10.54 A.M. O.C. D Coy reported that he had been able to get in touch with Division on right. O.C. C Coy reported that owing to mist darkness & shell fire it was impossible to recognise the line B.C.D.E, that he was in touch with K.O.S.B. & would establish himself in the forward position at dawn. Telephone communication established between Bn. H.Q. & front line
6.25 A.M. Order received from Bde to relieve K.O.S.B. who were to move into reserve. O.C. C.Coy. reported by Telephone that his patrols were unable to get forward. Two Machine Guns enfilading NORTH STREET & heavy sniping from his front. Companies were now as follows: - D.Coy from PICCADILLY to NORTH ST. on DUKE ST. B.Coy. continuing this line into DELVILLE WOOD. A.Coy. crossroads NORTH ST./FLERS RD. to ORCHARD. C.Coy. in support of A.Coy. with refused flank about S.11.d.8/3 & two platoons North of FLERS Rd. about S.11.d.4/4. C.Coy. were still endeavouring to gain touch with 2nd Divn. The position taken up could be seen from the opposite ridge & any movement attracted heavy shell fire. There was also considerable sniping from the direction of FLERS Rd.
6.0. P.M. 1/NORFOLK RGT. arrived and relieved 2/K.O.S.B. and the forward BEDF. coys, who were moved back to reserve position E. of Church.
10.30 P.M. 1/CHESHIRE RGT. arrived & relief of 1/BEDF. R. was completed by Midnight. 1/BEDF. R. returned to POMMIERS REDOUBT.
11
P.M. A patrol from C.Coy. trying to get into touch with 2nd Division approached
the German line in NORTH of DELVILLE WOOD & attracted a big burst
of fire.
Casualties 10 Officers 188 O.R.
NOTE:
a sketch map was created for the operations around Longueval and a copy
is attached [comment; shown below]
August 1916
OPERATION
ORDER NO.8 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT 2nd August 1916 Ref Sheet MONTAUBAN ALBERT
&c
1.
The Battalion will move to Bivouacs in D.18. E.B today via MEAULTE
2.
Battn will march by the equivalent of platoons at 50 yds interval leading
platoon to pass junction of Road & railway in F.4.c.5/8 at 2.15 pm.
Order of Coys D.C.B.A. H.Q. leading platoon to march off at 1.30 p.m.
3.
Lieut. Topley [Arthur TOPLEY], one O.R. per coy & one O.R.
for H.Q. will meet the Staff Captain at the Church in DERNANCOURT at 2.30
p.m.
4.
O.C. Coys will take steps to ensure the Camp being left clean & free
of Rubbish before leaving
OPERATION
ORDER NO.9 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT. 4th AUGUST REF SHEET ALBERT 1/40,000
I.
The Battalion will entrain at MERICOURT today.
II.
Order of March H.Q. B. C. D. Head of Column to leave Camp at 5.50 A.M.
III.
O.C. A.Coy. will detail an Officer to meet Capt. RUTHERFORD at
MERICOURT Station at 6.30 a.m. to assist entraining.
IV.
Officers Kits will be ready by 5 A.M. & handcarts will be ready loaded
for marching off by 5.30 A.M.
V.
O.C. Coys will ensure the Camp being left in a tidy condition, free of
rubbish.
VI.
The Battalion will detrain at HANGEST & bivouac at LE QUESNOY
OPERATION
ORDER NO.10 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt 6th August
I.
The Battalion will move to TAILLY this afternoon (4 miles)
2.
The Battalion will march in order HQ.C.D.A.B. Transport in rear. Head
of leading Coy. to leave Camping Ground at 2.30 p.m.
3.
Billeting Party has already proceeded under separate orders.
4.
O.C. Coys will ensure that the Camping Ground is left tidy & free
of soil & rubbish.
5.
Kits etc. will be ready for loading by 1.30 p.m.
OPERATION
ORDER NO 11 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt. 22nd August 1916
1.
The Brigade Transport will move into the XV Corps Reserve Area as follows:
- (a) Transport & Animals (less Cookers, Water Carts & Mess Cart).
To be east of a North & South Line through le QUESNOY Church at 9.15
a.m. under Transport Officer. (b) Cookers, Watercarts, Mess Cart &
Bicycles under Quartermaster to be East of Le QUESNOY by 6 p.m. The destination
of both (a) & (b) will be area AILLY St.SAVEUR [sic] - ARGOUEVES.
2.
Billeting Representatives will meet D.A.Q.M.G. 5th Division at Church,
AILLY at 11 a.m. 23rd inst.
3.
The march of all Transport &c. will be resumed on 24th inst. Destination
DERNANCOURT.
4.
Officers' Kits will be stacked ready for loading by 7.0 a.m. tomorrow
23rd inst. at Q.M. Stores
5.
Battalion will move by train on 24th under separate orders.
6.
All Kit, stores, animals & vehicles are to go with Transport except
(1) 6 Lewis Gun handcarts. (2) 1 Wheeled Stretcher Lewis Gun handcarts
are to carry nothing extra except packs of L.G. Team
OPERATION
ORDER NO.12 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT. 24th August 1916
1.
Battalion will move to the Camping ground N.W. of DERNANCOURT by train
today.
2.
Battalion will parade in order H.Q. D.C.B.A. Head of column to pass cross
roads 1/2 mile N. of Chateau gates at 1.40 p.m.
3.
Entraining station LONGPRE, approximate distance 7 1/2 miles. Detraining
station MERICOURT. Train from LONGPRE 5 p.m.
4.
Lt.Topley [Arthur TOPLEY] will meet the Staff Captain on LONGPR
station at 4 p.m. to arrange accommodation.
5. Sergt. Atkinson & C.Q.M.S. Halsey [6756 Frederick HALSEY] will proceed by a train leaving LONGPRE at 3 p.m. & will act as billeting representatives. They will arrange guides from the Transport to meet the train the Battalion travels by. Ref. ALBERT combined sheet
OPERATION
ORDER NO.13 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT 25th August 1916
1.
Battalion will march to SANDPIT S.E. of MEAULTE today.
2.
Battalion will parade in order H.Q.C.D.A.B. Head of column to leave Camp
at 2.55 p.m.
3.
"B" Echelon first Line Transport will accompany the Battalion "A" Echelon
will march under O.C. no.4.Coy Divisional to MEAULTE
4.
Billeting party consisting of Lt.Howard
[Addison James HOWARD] & Sergt.Atkinson will report
to Staff Captain at SANDPIT E.18.d. at 3.30 p.m. Bicycles will be available.
T.O. will also send one representative independently to same place at
same time.
5.
O.C. Coys before marching off will ensure that the Camp is clean &
free of rubbish
OPERATION
ORDER NO.14 1/BEDFORDSHIRE RGT Ref. ALBERT Combined Sheet 26th August
1916
1.
Battalion will relieve 16th Bn. Cheshire Rgt today near BILLON FARM
2.
Bttn. will parade in order H.Q. B.A.D.C. Head of Column to leave Sandpit
at 9 a.m.
3.
B Echelon Transport will follow the Bttn. A Echelon will be brigaded &
march under orders of Senior T.O. to a destination that will be notified
later.
1/Bedfordshire
Regt. Operation Order No. 18 31-8-16
1.
The Battalion will relieve the 12th Gloucester Regt in SILESIA Trenches
this evening
2.
The Battn. will parade ready to march off at 7 pm in "Close Column of
Coys facing the tents"
3.
All officers Kits to be ready stacked outside O Room tent by 6.30 PM
4.
All shelters to be left standing
5.
Cookers, small mess cart will accompany the Battn. Water Carts to remain
behind.
6.
All officers and N.C.O.s detailed to remain behind will proceed to the
Transport this evening
7.
1 officer & 1 O.R. per company will parade at 5.30 PM to proceed as
an advance party to SILESIA Trenches. They will meet the Battn. on arrival
and guide their companies to their appointed places
8.
O.C. Coys will have "gas sentries" posted as usual when in trenches
9. O.C. Coys to report personally to the Adjutant "that their Lines are clean etc." at 7 PM on parade
September 1916
1st
Bedfordshire Regt Operation Order No 19 2nd Sept 16 Reference Trench Map
1/10000
(1)
(a) The attack will be carried out on Sept 3rd 1916 (b) Zero hour will
be notified later. It will probably be at or about 12.55 pm (c) The 13th
Infantry Brigade Operation against FALFEMONT FARM and trenches to SOUTH
will take place, as already arranged, about 9.0 pm on Sept 3rd. In connection
with this attack Heavy Artillery will not fire SOUTH of a point 60 yards
N.W. of Point 48 (B2d4/8)
(2)
The following change will be made in the action of the Artillery: - the
bombardment, which will commence at 8.0 AM, on 2nd Sept will be deliberate.
At intervals throughout the bombardment the ground will be searched by
bursts of 18 pounder fire. There will be no increase in the intensity
of this bombardment either by Heavy of Field Artillery up to Zero
(3)
(a) In order to obtain a good jumping off place for future operations,
the final objectives of the XIV Corps on sept 3rd have been extended to
the Line: - SOUTH WESTERN edge of LEUZE Wood - NORTH WESTWARDS through
T.20 central. (b) GINCHY TELEGRAPH (T.14 central) will be taken by the
XV Corps
(4)
The 5th Division will capture the SOUTH WESTERN edge of LEUZE WOOD and
will gain touch on the right with the French about SAVERNAKE WOOD
(5)
(a) The dividing line between the 5th and 20th Divisions will be: - T26a1/8
- S.W.Corner of LEUZE WOOD (T.26.b.80/85) inclusive to 5th Division (b)
The dividing line between the 5th Div. and the 1st French Div will be
the Light Railway running through B3a and b.
(6)
(a) The Operations referred to in para 4 will be carried out by the 13th
Infy Bde. The advance on the wood will be made up the spur from the neighbourhood
of FALFEMONT FARM - The valley on the left being avoided as far as possible.
The right Flank of this advance will be covered by patrols, who will push
forward at the same time as the assaulting troops and establish posts
across the SOUTHERN slopes of the spur (approx. through T27C and b3a)
so as to connect with the French. These posts must be joined up as soon
as possible. 13th Infy Bde Boundaries On the Right Light Railway running
along NORTHERN edge of SAVERNAKE wood On the Left NORTHERN Corner of WEDGE
WOOD - Corner of LEUZE WOOD (T26b80/85) (b) To enable this attack to be
made the Artillery barrage will again become intense at ZERO plus 165
minutes. The creeping barrage will lift gradually at this hour at the
rate of 50 yards per minute until it has passed 200 yds beyond the edge
of LEUZE WOOD (c) The assaulting Infantry will advance at ZERO plus 165
minutes keeping as close under the barrage as possible
(7)
The 95th Infy. Bde is allotted the following additional tasks (a) Clearing
up the situation in the valley N.E. of WEDGE WOOD with a view to covering
the left flank of the 13th Infy Bde during their advance on LEUZE WOOD
(b) Assisting the 20th Division (should their advance to the WEDGE WOOD
- GINCHY road be checked) by movement NORTHWARD towards Cross Roads T
20 c 2/4 (c) Forming a defensive flank from corner of LEUZE WOOD (T 26
b 80/85) at quarry (T 20 d 3/1) thence westwards in the event of the 20th
Divisional attack on GUILLEMONT or the WEDGE WOOD - GINCHY Road be held
up
(8)
It is possible in the event of the Reserve Battalions of the 13th Infy
Bde having been previously engaged that the task of carrying out the operations
referred to in para 4 and 6 will be allotted to the 15th Infy Bde. This
Brigade will, therefore, be prepared to move forward, if required to the
FALFEMONT FARM Line and will consider plans beforehand for carrying out
the attack
(9)
The CRE will consider plans with B.G.C13th Infy Bde for opening up communication
with the FALFEMONT FARM Line and LEUZE WOOD
(10)
Watches will be synchronized at hours to be stated later
(11)
16th Division will be in Corps reserve. One Infy Brigade Group of this
decision will be in a position S.W. of BILLON FARM ready to move at one
hours notice
NOTES
ON RECENT OPERATIONS Reference your No.G.1463
The
following points were noted during the operations of 3rd to 6th September.
1.
Orders were not always issued in sufficient time; thus the Order to attack
FALFEMONT FARM at 6.30 p.m. on 3rd, was only received at 6 p.m.
2.
Communication between Brigade Headquarters and Battalion was bad. An Operation
Order to make an immediate attack on FALFEMONT FARM, issued at 12.30 a.m.
on the 5th only reached Battalion at 8.0 a.m., though the distance was
under a mile. It was taken by a relay runner who lost his way. Where relay
runners are used they should be stationed at telephone test stations,
so that the line can be followed. This is especially the case by night.
If the shelling is very severe these test stations should be closer together
and cover provided. An advanced "exchange" should be made where reports
as to progress made, etc., can be duplicated and sent out to neighbouring
units. Patrols can very rarely obtain this information.
3.
When an important success has been gained, fresh troops should be available
to take advantage of it before the enemy has time to re-organise, but
where this is not so even tired troops can push on provided their flanks
remain secure. Some sort of signal, such as rockets or flares, visible
from an O.P. should be pre-arranged. Both field and heavy guns should
lift 800 yards or more according to the nature of the signal, and thus
enable the advance of our Infantry to continue.
4.
One or two Field Guns pushed well forward may be of great assistance in
dealing with a counter attack.
5.
The "P" Bomb for dug-outs and the arrangement of carrying 2 grenades per
man proved invaluable.
6.
A machine gun pushed into the front line safeguarded the left flank Lewis
guns were pushed up close behind the line of bombers (the ground was convex)
and did excellent work at close range.
7.
Military police stationed on main avenues of approach and close to the
front line could send back into action cases of pseudo "shell shock" and
also men not carrying back their full load. A report to Brigade being
rendered later.
REPORT
ON OPERATIONS ON 3rd - 6th SEPTEMBER BY 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT
(Appendix
I).
Orders
were received to move to SLIT TRENCHES from SILESIAN TRENCH at 1-55 p.m.
on 3rd September. The leading platoon marched off within 10 minutes and
reached MALTZ HORN TRENCHES 2-25 p.m. At 3 p.m. the Battalion was ordered
to move to NEW TRENCHES South of ANGLE WOOD.
(Appendix
II).
The
16th Bn.Royal Warwickshire Regiment had been ordered to move by communication
trenches. We started after then and going across the open got in the East
End as they got in at the West The two Battalions had to pass one another
in a narrow trench during a heavy shelling. Since there was not room for
two Battalions in the trench a second line had to be dug behind the first.
By food fortune there only [sic] ten casualties.
(Appendix
III).
6
p.m. orders came from Brigade that Artillery would bombard FALFEMONT FARM.
That Bedfords would assault from FALFEMONT FARM exclusive to WEDGE WOOD
inclusive at this hour in conjunction with the Cheshires on our right
passing through the troops holding the first line. Orders were issued
to Companies by 6-10 p.m. and the leading platoon of "D" Company moved
off by 6-15 p.m. As they had 1000 yards of open ground to their objective
the BARRAGE had lifted long before they could get anywhere near. Moving
steadily forward under Artillery and Machine Gun Fire they bore a little
too much to the left and passing through the leading companies of the
Warwicks and the 95th Brigade they occupied the line from WEDGE WOOD to
sunken road at T.26.C.1/9 thus obtaining a portion of the third objective
of the 95th Bde.
(Appendix IV).
Some
30 Warwicks were found in WEDGE WOOD. They had orders to retire at dusk.
They were relieved and the line was extended to join the 1st Cheshires
due West of FALFEMONT FARM about B.2.A.0/5. We now held a front of 12
hundred yards with the Battalion Headquarters in a trench just South of
WEDGE WOOD. To enable the Battalion to continue its attack on trenches
East of WEDGE WOOD and to get my Companies out of the 95th Brigade area
I requested O.C. "A" Company to move South of WEDGE WOOD, but so as to
avoid any accident I instructed him to report this intention first to
the nearest Battalion Commander. He was informed that the D.C.L.I. and
Gloucesters were unable to take over our front and that the D.C.L.I. were
expecting a counter attack on the left.
(Appendix V-VI).
In consequence the 2 1/2 companies were allowed to remain in the 95th
Brigade area holding the first line. A company of the West Kents was called
for to hold a portion of our line while a bombing attack was made, but
this was cancelled on receipt of 15th Brigade Operation Order No.58 of
4th September directing a general attack on the 4th. Strong patrols were
pushed forward from Captain Barnett's [William Harold Louis
BARNETT, DSO] Company. They entrenched that night within about 30
yards of the German first line in a very creditable manner. The other
Companies also pushed out patrols. Captain Norrish's [Samuel
NORRISH, MC] Company capturing 3 and Lieut.Howard's
[Addison James HOWARD] Company 1 prisoner without any loss - due
to good patrol leading. In accordance with 15th Brigade Operation Order
of 4th September orders were issued for an attack on Northern portion
of CIRCULAR TRENCH East of WEDGE WOOD.
(Appendix VII).
"D" Company was due to advance from the points they had dug on the night
3/4th instant. "A", "C" and "B" Companies from in front of the 95th Brigade
were to "sideslip" and in succession to occupy the pushing off place of
"D" Company, to reinforce rapidly. During the morning our guns persistently
shelled the line we were holding, and in spite of several reports, matters
remained the same. Finally two of the forward trenches had to be evacuated
as the men were all being buried. In doing so the enemy opened with machine
guns on them and there were several casualties. Quite apart from its moral
effect some 30 men were killed or wounded by our own guns. A bombing party,
consisting of the Battalion and "D" Company's Bombers, and provided with
both "P" and the "Mills" Bombs followed the first platoon; in addition
every man in the ranks carried two bombs. As the whole ground was a series
of craters these bombs proved invaluable. The rifle men shot down the
enemy as he ran back. Lewis guns also did great execution. Reinforcements
came up on both sides and matters began to look serious. All the Battalion
reserves were used up, Headquarters were asked for reinforcements from
another Battalion, but the last push just succeeded, and our supply of
bombs outlasted their's The "P" bomb proved the greatest value in bringing
them out of dug-outs. In one instance a bomb set fire to a German bomb
store. A whole Company was sheltering in a dug-out with 3 entrances, according
to the statements of two survivors: not many escaped. The position was
held by a German Battalion with M.G. detachment. Three officers (1 wounded)
128 other ranks and 4 machine guns in good condition were captured and
sent back by the Bedfords; others were taken back without passing through
Battalion Headquarters. In all I estimate the number of prisoners taken
by the Battalion during the three days as 160. Some were also taken by
a party of about 30 Cheshires who came up on our right. Another party
of about 50 who came later on out left also relieved the situation. Apart
from this nothing could be seen of any progress on our right; on the left
the 95th Bde was not to advance till 6.30 p.m. We consolidated on a line
from the Northern corner of FALFEMONT FARM for 300 yards in a N.W. direction
across the Plateau. All opposition had ceased by 5.50 p.m., two Companies
of West Kents had joined, in response to my request for reinforcements
at 4 p.m. and were pushed forward towards LEUZE WOOD, but were recalled
to comply with 15th Brigade wire not to draw on them unless absolutely
necessary. A strong patrol was sent out on the right through the Farm
to try and gain touch with the Norfolks. (They gained touch with the 16th
Warwicks East of FALFEMONT FARM). The Cheshires dug in about 300 yards
S.W. of the W. corner of LEUZE WOOD where they gained touch later on with
the 95th Brigade. Eight other German stragglers were taken by the Bedfords
on the 5th, and seven wounded Germans were left in a dug-out.
(Appendix X).
Throughout the 5th things remained quiet except for some shelling by our guns and a very heavy bombardment by German heavy guns. We buried all our dead and were relieved on the morning of the 6th September
The Battalion went into action with 20 Officers and 610 other ranks, and came out having lost 17 Officers and 289 other ranks.
They
fully succeeded in gaining their objective and facilitated the advance
on either flank. The Battalion started with full water bottles on the
afternoon of the 3rd and were only able to obtain water again on the morning
of the 5th, during this time they made an attack across the open and the
following afternoon made another successful attack. This lack of water
was to a certain extent eked out by soda water, of which the German dug-outs
were found to be well supplied when captured. Sgt.Bush [8186 George
BUSH], the Battalion Signalling Sergeant, kept up communication between
Brigade and Battalion Headquarters by telephone throughout the operations,
except for short intervals. There were two intermediate stations for repair
of line. Orderlies were able to follow the line to carry important messages.
This was not done by a Brigade Orderly carrying 15th Brigade O.O. No.59
of 5th September, ordering an attack at once by night on FALFEMONT FARM.
It was sent out at 12.30 a.m., and only received at 8.0 a.m, too late
to be acted upon
(Appendix VIII). By night a telephone line or even string will enable orderlies to find their way however intricate the country may be I would also like to draw attention to the necessity of giving Battalion Commanders more time to communicate their orders to subordinates. Not many Battalions could have moved off from a long line of trenches to assault a strong position 1000 yards distant within a quarter of an hour of receipt. Temp.Captain Barnett [William Harold Louis BARNETT, DSO] led the leading Company and directed those following in a masterly manner, after passing through the trenches of our front line, some 500 yards from where we started, they finished up, each Company, a formed unit on their objective. A previous attack that morning had failed and the temptation must have been great for men to drop into the front line trench and start firing. Temp.Captain Barnett's Company also led the attack on the 4th against German position N.W. of FALFEMONT FARM, under peculiarly difficult circumstances. His Company had been under our own barrage fire from daylight till 3.10 p.m., the last portion of which was intense. Many men had been killed and many buried. It was only by constant digging in that any survived, yet the assault was carried out with the utmost vigour. The capture gained the whole ridge and by drawing off German troops from the quarry near T.26 a 6/2 enabled the 95th Brigade to reach LEUZE WOOD practically unopposed that evening. It also indirectly facilitated the advance of the French troops.
Under the circumstances I should like to recommend Temp.Capt.Barnett [William Harold Louis BARNETT, DSO] for immediate reward, and also Temp.Capt.West [Herbert John WEST, MC] , who did equally good work. All Appendices are with the original War Diary 15th Infy Bde. G 1451 The Brigadier General Commanding feels he cannot too warmly express his admiration of the fine soldierly qualities again displayed by all ranks during the recent operations. The taking of FALFEMONT FARM, a most important and strongly defended post, was a magnificent performance and is one of the greatest successes accomplished during the war. This was made possible entirely by the good handling of their Battalions by Commanding Officers and the devoted conduct of all ranks. Heavy working parties were required when the Brigade was not in the Line and these did excellent work. The Brigadier-General thanks all ranks for their support and co- operation and trusts the Brigade will shortly enjoy a well earned rest.
8th
September 1916
Undated
[Comment: Appears to be the Colonels speech to the Battalion, but unconfirned]
I
have come here this morning to read to you a message that we have received
from the Commander-in-Chief. he says, with reference to the late operations,
"The rapid advance on LEUZE WOOD, following on the capturing of FALFEMONT
FARM, showed great judgement and determination, and has been of considerable
assistance to the French Army on our right. I very warmly congratulate
you and the Commanders and Staffs and the Troops under you on the results
you have already achieved and on the energy and determination with which
they were followed up. Well, now, your'e the people who took FALFEMONT
FARM, and I am very glad to be able to tell you that not only the Commander-in-Chief,
but the Army Commander and the Corps Commander all realise what a great
and glorious fight it was. It makes it all the better that you did it
after there had been a failure; that always makes it more difficult. Nothing
in the world could have been finer than the show you fellows put up by
that Farm and the line up to WEDGE WOOD on the left of it. It was magnificent.
I want to thank you all for what you have done and tell you that everybody
thoroughly understands what a good show it was.
1st
Bedforshire Regt Operation Order No.20 9th September 1916 Reference Map
ALBERT combined sheet 1/40,000
I The 15th Infantry Brigade will move to MORLANCOURT to-day.
II The Battalion will parade ready to move off at 1.30 pm. Order of march Hdqrs. A, B. C. D.
II
[sic] Company commanders are held responsible that their lines are left
clean Issued at 12.45 pm
SECRET
1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regt. Operation Order No.21 15th Sept. 1916 Map reference
ALBERT (combined Sheet) 1/100,000
1. the Battalion will move to CITADEL today.
2. Order of march: - "A" Company 'B' Company 'C' Company D Company Lewis Guns and Lewis Guns teams with the exception of 1 reserve team per company will march rear of the Battalion.
3. Head of Column will pass the church (opposite H.Q. Norfolk Regt) at 4.20 a.m.
4. Coy. Commanders will report to the Adjt that their billets and huts are left clean and free from Bombs and S.A.A.
5. Officers kits will be put on baggage wagon at once.
6. All regimental marks on doors and buildings will be obliterated.
7. The following will be carried on the man: - Packs and greats Unexpended portion of current days rations Following day's ration 120 rounds of S.A.A.
8. No bombs will be carried on the man
9. Bn. will pass Brigade Starting point K.3.d.4/9 at 4-35 a.m.
Secret
1/Bedfordshire Regt 16.9.16
1. The Bde will move to WATERLOT Farm at once.
2. The Battalion will relieve a Bn of Rifles 60th Bde. in WATERLOT Farm
3. Parade ready to move off 6.40 pm Order of march. H.Q. A, B, C, D. Coys, Lewis Gun teams & Handcarts
4.
The following transport will accompany the Battalion marching in rear
of Battalion: Cookers, watercarts, mess cart & Tool limber issued
at 6.20 p.m.
Fancy
Secret Operation Order No.4 Amendment to No.4 24.9.16 Map Ref 57C., S.W.
1. The attack will be on Sept 25th
2 FALLOW H.Q. will be at T.20.b.2.8. FANCY H.Q. will be at T.9.d.2.2
3. Medical Advanced collecting posts: 9a) E of GUILLEMONT near where Rly. crosses GINCHY-MAUREPAS Rd T.4.a.1.1. (b) MALTZ HORN Fm. A.6.central
5. Advanced Dressing Station Dublin post A.4.d.4.5.
6.Infantry will reach main road running N.N.W. from church in MORVAL at ZERO plus 2 hours 14 minutes (3rd. objective) They will reach Eastern outskirts of village at 2 hours and 16 mins. i.e. 16 minutes after leaving the sunken road.
7. The assaulting troops will leave their trenches at the following hours precisely Norfolks for 1st objective Zero Bedfords for 2nd objective Zero + 1 hour Cheshires for 3rd objective Zero + 2 hrs.
8. Barrage (Cancel Para 17 O.O. No.4 dated 22nd) In all cases the creeping Barrage wil [sic] be at rate of 50 yards per one minute
9 (1) At zero a creeping barrage will open in front of the 1st. objective & about 200 yds in advance of our departure trenches simultaneously with a standing Barrage on the objective itself. At Zero + 3 minutes the creeping Barrage will begin moving forward at rate of 50 yds a minute when it reaches the objective it will move on to a line 200 yds beyond it, the standing Barrage same time lifting on to 2nd objective where it will remain (2) At Zero + 1 hour the creeping Barrage will again become intense, and at zero + 1 hour & 2 minutes will begin moving forward on to 2nd objective. On reaching 2nd objective it together with standing Barrage, will move on to a line 200 yds. beyond (3) At zero + 2 hrs the creeping Barrage will again become intense 200 yds in front of 2nd. objective, and at zero + 2 hrs & 2 minutes will begin moving forward as follows: (a) At zero+ 2 hrs stationary Barrage w[sic] open on new trench running appro [sic] N & S through T.10.d.central (b) As soon as the Creeping Barrage referred to in para 3 reaches the stationary Barrage the latter wil [sic] lift on to the main road running N.N.W. from MORVAL church and to former will continue creeping on (c) As soon as the Creeping Barrage again comes up to the Stationary Barrage on main road the letter will lift to a line 200 yds E. of village where it will remain, until a report [sic] has been received that the village has been taken and that our troops are on the Eastern edge of it. the Barrage will then lift so as to allow patrols to push forward along the spur T.11.a.
10.
The general compas [sic] bearing for the advance of the Battalion on to
their objective (T.10.c.8/3. to T.10.c.8/9. sunken road) is 105 degrees
(magnetic) approx. All ranks must be very careful not to lose direction
when passing over the Norfolks objective Further orders will be issued
when received the Battalion must be prepared to move at short notice
SECRET
FANCY OPERATION ORDER No.4 b. 24th September, 1916 Map reference 57c S.W.
1. The Battalion will move to assembly trenches N. of the Quarry T.9.d.via CHIMPANZEE TRENCH tonight where the men will have tea. Parade 4-30 p.m.
2. Order of march: - H.Q. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. "A" Coy. "B" Coy. The H.Q.bombers will march and be under the orders of O.C."C" Coy. Distance between Companies 200 yards.
3. Two days rations plus the emergency ration will be carried on the man. Great-coats and Haversacks will be dumped here. Men will carry 100 rounds extra S.A.A.and two bombs. Companies and Lewis Gunners will draw tools, Flares, Rockets, V.P.A.and Lewis Gun Magazines etc.which they dumped and handed over to the 14th Warwicks, on their way up to Quarry.
4. Company Commanders will leave one duty sergeant and one duty corporal behind with Transport.
5.
BARRAGE Programme for 95th Infantry Brigade. (a). At zero,plus two hours,a
stationary Barrage will open intensely on an approximate line T.16.d.68/00
- T.10.d.60/25. (b). As soon as the creeping Barrage reaches this stationary
Barrage it will remain there for 30 minutes to allow time for the troops
to establish themselves on the line gained. After 30 minutes this Barrage
will move on to a line T.17.a.15/00 - T.11.d.0/4,where it will again wait
30 minutes before creeping on to the main road running S.S.E. from the
church. It will remain another 30 minutes on this road and will then move
on to a line 200 yards EAST of the village. (c). A stationary Barrage
will also be maintained on each of the three lines mentioned above which
will lift in each case after the creeping barrage reaches it. From the
above it will be seen that the 15th Infantry Brigade will reach their
final objective (Eastern Edge of Village) in one bound whereas the 95th
Infantry Brigade will reach the same line in four bounds.
Secret
FANCY O.O. No.5 25.9.16 In continuation of O.O.No.4 Map Ref.57c SW
1. Zero hour 12.35 pm
2. When the Norfolks leave their assembly trenches at Zero C Coy will at once file into the front assembly trench vacated by the Norfolks. D Coy will follow by same route into same trench as C Coy. 'A' Coy will at once file into second assembly trench (vacated by Norfolks) closely followed by B Coy Thus: - The jumping off positions will be: - L D Coy 'C' Coy R L 'B' Coy, 'A' Coy R
3. The attack will be made on a 4 platoon front i.e. 2 platoons from Right Coys & 2 platoons from left coys.
4. The intervals between waves will be 150 yds. Thus there will be 4 waves of 4 platoons in line
5 A & B coys will jump off from Norfolk second line assembly trench. They will not file into the front assembly trench.
6. Reference para 1. A & B Coy will file into their new assembly trenches precisely at Zero before C & D Coy move because These trenches will be vacated by Norfolks when their second line takes place of their first line.
7. No documents are to be taken off prisoners. Unwounded prisoners are to be sent to QUARRY to carry stretchers.
8.
C & D Coys are the assaulting Coys. the first wave need not take tools.
1st
BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT REPORT ON OPERATIONS FROM THE 24th to
25th SEPTEMBER 1916
The Battalion moved to Quarry in T.9.d.2/2 and were in assembly trenches by 9.30 p.m. The back trench required deepening. A communication trench from this to the forward trench and thence to the back Norfolk trench was dug during the night. This enabled the men to file under cover into the Norfolk trenches at zero hour. This was done.
1.35 p.m. the Battalion advanced in four waves at 150 yards distance one from another, passing over the trench taken by the 1st Norfolks. The first line reached their objective, the sunken road, by 1.40 p.m. Lewis guns were immediately placed in position on the top of the bank and several drums fired at the retiring enemy. A trench opposite the 95th Bde.was enfiladed.
The
Battalion dug in along the line of the road and also on the top of the
bank. Touch was gained with the 16th Bde. at 1.50 p.m. and with the 95th
Bde. about 2.0 p.m. Battalion Headquarters were established in the sunken
road at 1.45 p.m. Considerable casualties were sustained from our own
field guns, both during the advance and while holding the sunken road.
It is suggested that a simple system of signals either by smoke or coloured
Very lights direct from the Battalion to the Field Batteries forming the
Barrage immediately in front should be instituted and that the heavy artillery
barrage should lift a considerable distance back at zero. The artillery
liaison officer reported his wire cut very early in the operations and
there appears to be no other means of getting direct touch with the guns.
It would also be better if the creeping barrage were to advance 100 yards
a minute instead of 50, that pace can be easily maintained by the Infantry
and less time is given for hostile Machine Guns to be placed in position
and also the troops are exposed for a shorter time to hostile artillery.
Secret
FANCY O O No 6 26.9.16 Map Ref 57c SW
1. At 7 pm.A & B Coys & HQ Lewis Guns will move to OXFORD Copse
2. C & D Coys & HQs will wait until relieved by the Sherwood Foresters when they will proceed to OXFORD Copse independently.
3. C & D Coys will each keep two Lewis Guns & teams with them
Secret 1/Bedfordshire Regt. O.O. N.7 27.9.16
1. The Bde will move to the CITADEL this evening as follows 1/Norfolk.R. will leave bivouacs 5.30 pm 1/Bedf.R. will leave bivouacs 5.35 pm 1/Cheshire R will leave bivouacs 5.40 pm 16th R.Warw R. will leave bivouacs 5.45 pm
2.
Bn will parade at 5.30 pm. Order of march Drummers H.Qs A.B.C.D. Lewis
Guns & Transport in rear of Bn. 3. Head of Column will cross MARICOURT
- CARNOY road at 5.35 pm 4. Coy Commanders will report to Adjutant that
Bivouacs are left clean & free of S.A.A. & Bombs
October 1916
OPERATION
ORDER No.25 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment 9th October, 1916
1. The Battalion will relieve the Ist R.W.Kents in FESTUBERT left sector tomorrow.
2. "A" Coy. will relieve the right firing line Coy. and will march off from their present billets at I p.m. "B" Coy. will relieve the left firing line Coy. and will march off from their billets at 1-30 p.m. "C" Coy. will relieve Support Coy. in RICHMOND TRENCH, and will march off from their present billets at 2 p.m. "D" Coy. will relieve the Reserve Coy. in the O.B.L. (Old British Line) and will march off from their present billets 2-30 p.m. Platoons will march at 200 yards interval. This interval will be rigidly adhered to. 3 (A). Signallers will parade under the signalling officer and will march off from their present billets 9 a.m. They will take over all stations immediately on arrival in the trenches. (b) Lewis Guns will be allotted as follows "A" Coy. 3, "B" Coy. 2, "C" Coy.
3. L.G.O. will arrange to allot these guns to these companies tomorrow morning. Guns and Teams will march off to the Coys. to which they are attached (c) The remainder of H.Q. will march off under the R.S.M. leaving their present billets at 3 p.m.
4. Guides 4 Guides per Coy., 2 Guides per H.Q. will be at the corner of the Rue d' BOIS and the Rue L,EPPINETTE in S.13.d.1/5 at 2 p.m. These guides will take Coys. in by the following routes, "A" Coy. PIONEER St. "B" Coy. ROPE St., "C" Coy. SHETLAND St., "D" Coy.& H.Q., O.B.L.
5. The following advance party will leave their present billets 12 noon, and proceed and take over all trench stores etc. 1 Officer & 2 O.R. per Coy. Intelligence Officer & 2 O.R., H.Q. (to be detailed by the R.S.M.)
6.
Posts. The posts at present garrisoned by "D" Coy. will be handed over
as follows, S.VAAST, LORETTO & CROIX BARBEE to a Battalion of the
183rd Brigade, the remainder to a Coy. of the 16th R.W.R. O.C. "D" Coy.
will arrange to leave 2 caretakers in each post and to withdraw the remainder
of the company tomorrow morning. The caretakers left should be responsible
men who can
7. O.C. "D" Coy. will forward to H.Q. at 12 noon tomorrow a list of his stores to be handed over. O.C.Coys will forward a list of stores they have taken over as soon as possible after arrival in the trenches.
8. (a) Handcarts are allotted as follows, 1 per Coy. 1 to H.Q. & 1 to Orderly Room. These can proceed in daylight as far as KING'S CROSS at X.18.o.5/2 (R.E.Dump), whence the contents can be conveyed by light railway after dark, the handcarts can be left at KING'S CROSS. (b) Transport Officer will get into communication with his opposite number and will make arrangements about sending up rations. Limbers to carry cook utensils and Orderly Room boxes, and the Officer's Mess cart will be at H.Q. 12 noon, these vehicles will leave H.Q. at 2 p.m. for KING'S CROSS where they will be unloaded. Coy. Cooks & Officers Mess Employ will march with these wagons and remain at KING'S CROSS till dark.
9. Officer's valises will be packed ready for loading by 12 noon, Officer's Trench Kits will be ready for loading at I p.m.
10. Completion of the relief will be reported to Battalion H.Q. by Orderly
SECRET
1. It will not be possible to re-organise the Line in accordance with the new Defence Scheme to-day therefore "C" Coy. will relieve "A" Coy. in the firing line; "D" Coy. will relieve "B" Coy.
2. "A" Coy. will withdraw to Richmond Terrace, "B" Coy. will withdraw to O.B.L.
3. These reliefs will commence at once and will be completed in daylight, with the exception of the few men in the Posts, who will be relieved as soon as it is dark.
4. Companies will hand over exact list of Stores to each other.
5.
The completion of relief will be reported by Orderly. 13-10-16
OPERATION
ORDER No. 26 1ST BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 15-10-16
1. - Battalion will be relieved by the 16/Royal Warwickshire Regiment to-morrow
2. - - "C" Coy. will be relieved in the right of the firing line and will have 5 guides at KING'S Cross 10 a.m., who will conduct relieving Coy. via the O.B.L. SHETLAND ROAD and RICHMOND TERRACE. "D" Coy. will be relieved in the left of the firing line and will have 5 guides at KING'S CROSS 10.30 a.m., who will conduct relieving Coy. via ROPE STREET. "A" Coy. will be relieved in RICHMOND TERRACE and will have 5 guides at KING'S CROSS 11 a.m., who will guide relieving Coy. in via O.B.L. and SHETLAND ROAD. "B" Coy. will be relieved in the O.B.L. and will have 5 guides at KING'S CROSS 11.30 a.m. who will conduct relieving Coy. via O.B.L.
3 guides for Headquarters will be at KING'S CROSS at 9.30 a.m. 3. - - O.C. "B" Coy. will detail an Officer to be at KING'S CROSS to supervise all the guides.
4. - - On relief, Coys. will withdraw independently to the same billets as occupied last time, marching by platoons at 200 yds. interval. Those posts which cannot be relieved by daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark. O.C. "D" Coy. will leave an Officer behind to bring this party on.
5. POSTS. - - "C" Coy. will take over the Posts at present held by the 16/Royal Warwickshire Regt. Each Post will be garrisoned by 2 caretakers only.
6. - - A list of the Stores handed over will be forwarded to Bn. Headquarters by 8 a.m. to-morrow without fail.
7. - - Handcarts are allotted as follows; - - 1 per Coy.; 1 to H.Q.; 1 to Orderly Room. Transport Officer will arrange for limbers to come as far as KING'S CROSS as soon as it is dark. A fatigue party will accompany these limbers and will go up to H.Qrs. and push Office kits, etc., down the railway and load them on to the limbers. Kits, etc., that cannot be carried will be left at H.Qrs. till it is dark enough for trucks to come up the railway. R.S.M. will arrange to leave 1 man with these kits.
8.
- - Completion of relief will be reported to Bn.H.Qrs. by Orderly
OPERATION
ORDER No.27 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 19-10-16
1. The Battalion will relieve 16/R.Warwickshire Regiment in the trenches to-morrow.
2. Reliefs. "A" Coy. will relieve right firing line Coy. The leading platoon will pass KING'S CROSS at 10.30 a.m. Coys. will march by platoons at 200 yds. interval. "B" Coy. will follow "A" and will relieve left firing line Coy. "C" Coy. will follow "B" and will relieve the Coy. in support at RICHMOND TERRACE. "D" Coy. will follow "C" and will proceed to the OLD BRITISH LINE. H.Qrs. will follow "D" Coy.
3. Posts which cannot be relieved in daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.
4. Feet O.C.Coys will see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches, and a certificate to this effect will be rendered to the Orderly Room.
5. Stores. A list of Stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.H.Qrs. as soon as possible after relief.
6. The men of "C" Coy. will rejoin their Coy. as soon as relieved on detached post.
7.
Transport Officer will make arrangements for fetching Officer's mess stores
and kit from billets. he will also arrange for Officer's trench Stores
to be taken to KING'S CROSS.
OPERATION
ORDER No.28 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 21-10-16
1.
Reliefs To-morrow, 22nd inst., "D" Coy. will relieve "B" Coy. in the left
firing line, and "B" Coy. will withdraw to OLD BRITISH LINE. "C" Coy.
will relieve "A" Coy. in the right firing line and "A" Coy. will withdraw
to RICHMOND TERRACE. The times of these reliefs will be arranged by the
Company Commanders concerned, but it should take place as soon as possible
after breakfast, and by small parties of men at a time.
OPERATION
ORDER No.29 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 23-10-16
1. The Bn. will be relieved by the 16/R.Warwickshire Rgt. to-morrow, commencing about 11 a.m.
2. Coys. will proceed to their usual billets.
3. Posts which cannot be relieved by daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.
4. O.C. "C" Coy. will leave an Officer to conduct these reliefs back.
5. Gum boots will be left at Stores, S.19.b.1/6. All gum boots will be left there and receipts obtained by Coys. for same.
6. ROUTE Coys. will use PIONEER ROAD to RUE L'EPPINETTE. the junction of these two roads is close to gum boot store. Care must be taken that only sections move at a time.
7. Stores. A list of Stores to be handed over will reach Bn.H.Qrs. by 8.0 a.m. at latest.
8.
Transport; Transport Officer will make all necessary arrangements
OPERATION
ORDER No. 29a 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 27-10-16
1. The Battalion will relieve 16/R.Warwickshire Regiment in the trenches to-morrow.
2. Reliefs "A" Coy. will relieve the right firing line Coy. The leading platoon will pass KING'S CROSS at 10.30 a.m. Coys. will march by sections at 200 yds. interval. "C" Coy. will follow "A" and will relieve Coy. in support at RICHMOND TERRACE. The left of the firing line will be relieved by a composite Coy. under Lt.Beale [Allan Oswald Rufus BEALE, MBE, MC, Croix de Guerre]. This Coy. will consist of those men from "B" and "D" Coy. who are not going to take part in the forthcoming operations. The Coy. in the O.B.L. will be relieved by a composite Coy. under Capt.Morris [Charles Alan Smith MORRIS], consisting of men who are going to take part in the forthcoming operations. Lt.Beale's [Allan Oswald Rufus BEALE, MBE, MC, Croix de Guerre] Coy. will follow "C" Coy Capt.Morris' [Charles Alan Smith MORRIS] Coy. will follow Lt.Beale [Allan Oswald Rufus BEALE, MBE, MC, Croix de Guerre]. H.Qrs. will follow Capt.Morris' Coy. All the necessary arrangements with reference to the two composite Coys. will be made by Capt.Morris [Charles Alan Smith MORRIS] and Lt.Beale [Allan Oswald Rufus BEALE, MBE, MC, Croix de Guerre].
3. Posts which cannot be relieved in daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.
4. Feet. O.C. Coys. will be see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches, and a certificate to this effect will be rendered to the Orderly Room.
5. Stores. A list of Stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.Hqrs. as soon as possible after relief.
6. The men of "C" Coy. will rejoin their Coy. as soon as relieved on detached post. [this is all struck through in the original]
7.
Transport Officer will make arrangements for fetching Officers' mess stores
and kit from billets. He will also arrange for Officer' trench stores
to be taken to KING'S CROSS
OPERATION
ORDER No.30 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 27th Oct., 1916
1. GENERAL IDEA. To enter enemy's trenches, bomb his dug-outs, kill as many Germans and do as much damage as possible.
2. SPECIAL IDEA. To enter at points S.22.c.6/6 and S.22.c.8.4 as silently as possible with 4 parties. The leading party will endeavour to out wire and enter trench following line of ditch. A Bangalore torpedo [sic] detachment will accompany each party, in the event of the wire proving too thick. On entering the trench a stop will be formed and the remainder of the party will attack inwards, using the bayonet and bombing their way, if strongly opposed. The rear parties following on the same line and close on the heels of the leading party will continue along the line of the ditch until reaching support trench S.22.c.99/50 and S.22.c.7/6 respectively. On reaching these points they will form a block and attack inwards.
3. COMPOSITION OF PARTIES. Each party will consist of a Officer and four groups of 1 N.C.O. and 4 men each. No.1 group will consist of Bombers and Wire Cutters; No.2 group will be a Lewis Gun Detachment. Nos.3 and 4 groups will be Bayonet men and Bombers. The Lewis Gun Detachment of the leading parties will get in position about S.22.c.7/3 and S.22.c.5/4 and remain there until the entry has been effected, with a view to covering a retirement, should this prove necessary. On the entry being effected they will advance with the second parties to the point of entry into the German trench where they will take up a position to cover the flanks. The second parties will leave their Lewis Gun detachments in the position vacated by the other guns and remain there until the operations are concluded. The remainder, accompanied by two men bearing STOKES Mortars will proceed to German support line and act as above ordered.
4. DEMONSTRATION. A party of I Officer and 6 other ranks will make a demonstration towards Mound in S.23.a.3/2 cutting wire. A Lewis Gun Detachment will take post near the lone tree at S.22.a.7/8 and sweep enemy trench.
5. COVERING FIRE. 2 M.G. from our front line trench about S.22.c.5/3 will sweep enemy's parapet from left point of entry and enfilade his line towards MOULIN D'EAU. two other M.G. about S.23.a.5/9 will sweep enemy's parapet from point of entry to S.22.c.9/0.
6. ARTILLERY CO-OPERATION. Mortars will fire on MOULIN D'EAU, and the Field Artillery will open on ADELBERT ALLEY, EITEL ALLEY SOUTH AND DOVE TRENCH between S.27.b.5/3 and S.26.b.1/9. This will be done to deceive the enemy as to point of attack and to prevent reinforcements coming up. The Howitzer Battery will be prepared to open on the Minenwerfer emplacement. Fire will be controlled by the F.O.O. who will be with the Officer directing operations in the front trench. Fire will not be opened until the attack is in full swing.
7. DRESS. The leader of each group will carry a torch. Faces will be blacked. Bayonets will be dulled with soot and oil. Each man will carry 2 bombs in each pocket and there will be a wire-cutter to every 2 men. To avoid rattling, oil bottles will not be carried in the rifles. equipment will not be worn. 1 bandolier of ammunition will be carried. Magazines will be charged, but men must understand that this is only in case of emergency. Men are reminded that they should not give any information if captured, beyond that of their number, name and Regiment. No letters or Diaries will be carried by anyone.
8. RETIREMENT ARRANGEMENTS. When the mission has been completed the groups in the German support trench will move back, first reporting to the Officer in charge at the point they entered the trench, who will return last, picking up L.G. on flanks. The word "retire" will not
be used.
9. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS. Each group of 1 N.C.O. and 4 men will act as a distinct unit and keep a short distance from units in front or rear. Floorboards will be carried by each of the rear groups. Cords with 100, and 150 and 200 yards markings will be taken by the leading group of each party. In the event of little opposition being encountered on the left 3 flares will be lit as a signal to the M.G. on that flank to cease firing. The enemy trenches will be held for two hours and as much damage done as possible.
10.
WOUNDED. Stretcher cases over QUINQUE RUE. Walking cases by SHETLAND Road.
Aid Post will be in O.B.L.
OPERATION
ORDER No.30/1 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 29th Oct., '16
1. Ref. O.O. 30, the date will be Tuesday, 31st October, 1916
2. Zero hour will be 7.0 p.m.
3. Explanatory Sketch Map is attached.
4.
The Bangalore Torpedoe [sic] men and the 4 men of 15 T.M.B. will report
to O.C. 1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment on 30th October
OPERATION
ORDER No.30/2 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 29th Oct., 1916
The following in continuation of O.O.30 and O.O.30/1
1. An Officer of 15/1 Trench Mortar Battery will be with F.O.O. and will arrange with Trench Mortars to open and cease fire the same time as the Artillery.
2. On requiring Artillery support, whether rapid or slow fire, Capt.Morris [Charles Alan Smith MORRIS] will send the word "rapid" or "slow" as the case may be, through the telephone which he is taking forward with him, back to the telephone which is being erected in the new dug-out near Pt.32, where the F.O.O. and Trench Mortar Officer will be.
3. Officers in charge of parties will ensure that the pins of bombs used are well greased, and that all ranks know how to pull the pins out rapidly when required.
4. If it should happen that any man in the course of the raid goes down an enemy dug-out, 1 or more men must remain at the top of the dug-out in such a case.
5. Watches will be synchronised at the H.Qrs. of O.C. "D" Coy. at 6.0 p.m.
6.
In the event of failure the men taking part in the raid will on no account
open fire. Covering fire will be left to the supporting Lewis Guns which
are being arranged for by Lieut.Kingdon [John Phillipps KINGDON].
OPERATION
ORDER No.31 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE BATTALION 31-10-16
1. The Bn. will be relieved by the 16/R.Warwickshire Regt. to-morrow, commencing about 10 a.m.
2. Coys. will proceed to their usual billets.
3. Posts which cannot be relieved by daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.
4. O.C. "A" Coy. will leave an Officer to conduct these reliefs back.
5. Gum Boots will be left at Stores, S.19.b.1/6. All Gum Boots will be left there and receipts obtained by Coys. for same.
6. Route. Coys. will use PIONEER ROAD to RUE L'EPPINETTE. the junction of these two roads is close to the Gum Boot Store. Care must be taken that only sections move at a time.
7. Stores. A list of stores to be handed over will reach Bn. H.Qrs. by 8 a.m. at the latest.
8.
Transport Officer will make all necessary arrangements.
OPERATION
ORDER 30/3 1st BN. BEDFORDSHIRE REGT. 31st Oct. '16
The following in continuation of O.O. 30, O.O. 30/1 and O.O. 30/2
1. DEMONSTRATION. 2/Lieut. Sullivan [John William SULLIVAN, MC] will be in charge of a Demonstration against the enemy listening post about S.28.a.3/1. He will go out at dusk into No MAN'S LAND and will wait until he is satisfied that the operations on the left have begun, when he will attack the above listening post with bombs, after which he and his party will return. Arrangements for the above will be made by O.C. "A" Company
INSTRUCTIONS IN CASE OF AN ADVANCE FOR BATTALION IN RESERVE, FERME DU BOIS RIGHT SECTION
1. A temporary unit dump will be formed at Transport Lines at S.10.c.2.6.
2. It will consist of all surplus kit and stores that cannot be carried forward with the troops. Ordnance material and private kit will be piled in separate
heaps.
3. The men left in charge of dump will be: - No.8117 Pte.A.Chapman [Alfred E. CHAPMAN] "A" Coy. (in charge). 14590 Pte.J.Hughs [sic James HUGHES] "B" Coy. 13613 Pte.J.Burgin [John BURGIN] "C" Coy. 8309 Pte.J.Bacon [sic 8203 John BACON] "D" Coy.
4. On receipt of orders these men will immediately report to the Quartermaster, who will see that the stores and kit are properly dumped and that the men in charge understand their duties.
5. On receipt of orders the transport officer will immediately collect all surplus kit and stores and convey them to the dump.
6. All kit and stores will be clearly labelled.
7. Lists will be sent to Orderly Room in triplicate of everything that is dumped. 1 copy will be retained 2 will be handed to the man in charge of the dump, who will hand one to O.C. Divisional Salvage Company, when the dump is taken over by them. The other, he will get receipted by O.C. Divisional Salvage Company and hand it into Orderly Room on return to to [sic] his unit.
8.
If at the time of receipt of orders for advance, the Battalion is in the
line, the Quartermaster will see that paras. 4, 6 & 7 are complied
with.
November 1916
REPORT
ON OPERATIONS CARRIED OUT ON NIGHT 31st OCTOBER/1st Nov 1st BATTALION
BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT Ref. O.O.30, O.O.30/1, O.O.30/2 Ref.Sheet RICHEBOURG
1/10,000
1. A raid was carried out by the Battalion under my command to-night.
2. The raiding party was under the command of Captain C.A.S. Morris [Charles Alan Smith MORRIS], and was divided into 4 platoons: - RIGHT PARTY No.1 commanded by 2/Lieut. Wright [Robert Kenneth WRIGHT, MC]. No.2 commanded by 2/Lieut. Kingdon [John Phillipps KINGDON] LEFT PARTY No.3 commanded by 2/Lieut. Draper [Sydney Harold DRAPER] No.4 commanded by 2/Lieut. Woodford [Arthur Francis WOODFORD]. Each platoon consisting of 20 other ranks
3. The intention, as enumerated in O.O.30, was to enter the enemy's trenches at S.22.c.6/6 and S.22.c.8/4, to inflict as many casualties and as much material damage as possible. The party left our trenches at 7.20 p.m. having cleared our own wire previously.
4. RIGHT PARTY This party found very heavy wire and came under M.G. fire from a point in the front line trench and, owing to bomb and rifle fire, were unable to get into the trench. They remained in position and later were able to effect an entry and join the Left Party.
5. LEFT PARTY. This party penetrated the enemy trench at 7.50 p.m. and completed [sic] surprised a patrol of Germans, killing 5 and taking 3 prisoner. It was not found practicable to continue over the open to the support line, owing to the rough nature of the ground. Stops were formed and the party bombed inwards, one platoon pushing a considerable distance up the communication trench and one proceeding up the trench to join the Right Party. As a counter attack appeared imminent a withdrawal was ordered and carried out, covered by Lewis Guns according to programme, our wounded being first evacuated.
6. The trenches were found empty except for the above patrol, and no material was found.
7. At 8.45 p.m., 65th Battery (4.5 How.) opened rapid fire on point behind German front line, to silence hostile MINENWERFER.
8. The Bangalore Torpedoes were not used, but the men in charge of Torpedoe [sic] showed plenty of initiative and energy, pushing right up and putting their torpedoes in position.
9. The men carrying Stokes Bombs accompanying the Right Party threw their 2 bombs at a M.G. emplacement at S.22.c.80/35. Those with the Left Party had no opportunity, as there were no dug-outs. The bombs were brought back.
10. The enemy artillery did not fire except for a salvoe behind the O.B.L. He fired a number of MINENWERFER into ROPE STREET. Enemy put up one green rocket immediately before his artillery fired the salvoe.
11. Examination of prisoners taken is attached.
12. Casualties. 2/Lieut. Wright [Robert Kenneth WRIGHT, MC] wounded; 1 O.R. killed; 17 O.R. wounded, 2 O.R.missing.
13.The trenches are very similar to our own - floorboarded and with a low parados. Several dug-outs were entered and were very similar to those in our lines. The Salient does not appear to be held, but only patrolled. No dug-outs were found in the Communication Trench.
14. Two wounded men were seen helping each other back. It is probable that they were buried by a Minenwerfer at the end of SHETLAND TRENCH.
15. The Lewis Guns, pushed out to the lone tree opposite 30 post did not fire as they had no target.
16. The electric torches fixed to the rifles near the hand grip proved exceedingly useful, and the fact that the men had their faces blacked raised the morale of the men enormously.
17.
A Demonstration against the enemy lines opposite No.23 Island was undertaken
by a party of 6, under 2/Lt.Sullivan [John William SULLIVAN,
MC]. This party left our lines at 6.30 p.m. and encountered and drove
in enemy patrol of 3, and then waited until they heard sound of bombs
and firing on left (about 8 p.m.) They then threw bombs into the enemy
listening post., about S.28.a.3/1. Enemy replied with some rifle fire
and the party withdrew, making as much noise as possible, firing several
volleys. 2.0 a.m. A patrol went out from our lines 2.0 a.m. and searched
the whole of the ground over which the raiding party had passed, but failed
to find the 2 missing men. It is believed that they were buried in SHETLAND
TRENCH by a large Minenwerfer which burst there. One man was seen early
in the night helping a wounded man back and these 2 are the 2 who are
missing. The body of the man killed was recovered.
FURTHER
REPORT ON OPERATIONS ON NIGHT 31st Oct./1st Nov.
Proposals for the projected raid were submitted on the 25th ult., and approved on the 26th.
Meanwhile the two Companies which had been holding that sector were ordered to submit names of men who could be considered fit to take part. Owing to casualties on the SOMME, the choice was very restricted, and arrangements had to be made to give further instruction in live bomb throwing to the majority of those selected.
To minimise the risk of confusion in the dark, four platoons of 20 men each, under an Officer, were formed. These platoons were composed of four sections, each under a N.C.O. Enlargements of an aeroplane photo were made and issued to group leaders.
The trenches were also staked out on the ground and the attack practised, first by the Demonstration method, then by the whole party. This was done twice by day, and when all the groups understood their role, by night also.
We moved into the trenches on the morning of the 28th ult., and frequent patrols were sent out to acquaint all the men with NO MAN'S LAND. The two weak points were found to be in the same state, and it was arranged to make the raid on the 31st, as the new moon would afford some light and facilitate movement, and the Germans would probably be less vigilant in consequence. It was arranged to follow the line of the two drains, these would afford some cover in the event of failure. Bangalore torpedoes were carried by each leading platoon, in case the wire could not be cut by hand. They were not eventually required.
The Right and Left leading platoons were to enter enemy trench at A and B, and forming stops composed of a Lewis Gun section and a Bombing section, were to work inwards, to join up and then work up the communication trench to C. The Right and Left rear platoons were to advance past the stops and follow the line of the ditch to points E and F. At these points Bombing stops were to be formed and the other two sections were to work inwards and join up with the leading platoons. By this means it was hoped to secure a good bag of prisoners.
The Lewis Gun sections of the rear platoons were to remain in NO MAN'S LAND in a position to cover retirement.
On the left one Bde.M.G. was in readiness to enfilade the German line towards COUR D'AVOUE, and on our right two Bde M.G's were ready to sweep the German parapet on the right of our point of entry. The Lewis Gun was also pushed forward through CANADIAN ORCHARD to enfilade a part of the line the Machine Guns could not touch.
A Demonstration was also arranged for 500 yds. to the East of B by an Officer patrol with 6 O.R. This was to operate immediately the Germans took alarm.
The
Officer Commanding left group R.F.A. had prepared a programme which could
be brought into effect on the signal being given. A signal code was arranged,
one flash with a torch signifying that an entry into the first line had
been effected, etc., etc. A telephone wire was also laid but did not work
satisfactorily.
ACCOUNT
OF THE OPERATIONS
On the left the leading platoon was able to enter the enemy trench without being observed, and forming the stop as arranged worked to the right. The rear platoon following on close behind found it impossible to continue along the drain as the ground was impossible. They proceeded some distance up the communication trench towards C, driving the Germans in front of them and taking 3 prisoners. They then formed a stop. The left leading platoon now got in touch with the right leading platoon which had just succeeded in entering. The leading section of the right platoon, consisting of Wire-cutters and Bombers, was fired at on approaching the German wire. Heavy rifle and machine Gun fire was opened on them from the right, and numerous casualties were caused by enemy bombs. The wire was proved to be thicker than they expected, and under the heavy fire it was impossible to place the Bangalore torpedo in position. They therefore moved a little to their left and succeeded in getting in where the wire was not so thick. Their Lewis Gun was brought into action on the German parados. A party was organised to bomb up the trench and capture the machine gun, but the Germans were reinforced and began to outflank the party, so Captain Morris [Charles Alan Smith MORRIS] gave out the code word "KING'S CROSS" for the retirement. Two Stokes mortar bombs were thrown into the German machine gun emplacement, and under cover of the Lewis Gun stop the party made an orderly retirement as pre-arranged, the several wounded men being carried back first on stretchers. An attempt to follow up into NO MAN'S LAND was prevented by fire from the Lewis Gun stop. Our artillery opened covering fire and silenced a Minenwerfer which was doing considerable damage in and behind our front line. The Demonstration on the right met a hostile patrol of 3 men, drove them back and bombed a German advanced post. They then withdrew firing, having fulfilled their mission. The raiding party remained in the enemy trenches about 3/4 of an hour. They were found to be very similar to our own, with trench boards and low timbered dug-outs. Nine Germans are reported killed and three were brought back prisoners. In addition they must have suffered severely from our Machine and Lewis Gun fire and bombs.
Our
casualties were: - killed 1 O.R.; wounded, 1 Officer and 17 O.R.; missing
5 O.R. Three of these are believed to have been buried by a Minenwerfer
in the communication trench after their return to our line. A patrol went
out to search for the missing men the same night, and a second strong
patrol also went as far as the German wire the next night to try and bring
back the body of a man who by day could be seen close up to it; nothing
could be found. Special precautions were taken to prevent all rattling.
Oil bottles were removed from rifles, the men carried a bandolier and
two Mills bombs in each pocket. They were all carefully examined first
and the ends of the pins pinched to ensure easy extraction. The bomb supply
proved sufficient. Electric torches were fixed on the rifles near the
hand grip and proved most useful. Burnt cork was used to black faces.
This operation caused much hilarity and certainly raised the morale. The
bayonets were also dulled with soot and oil. Cords were taken out to assist
in keeping connection and distance in the dark. A rough sketch is attached
[not attached].
Dear
Col.Allason
[Walter
ALLASON, DSO & Bar]
Please
see attached and return. I need not say I add my own congratulations.
I have already told you so. Yours, (sd) M.TURNER
Brigadier
General, Commanding 15th Infantry Brigade XI Corps 676/103 1st Nov., 1916
G.O.C. 5th Division
I
should be glad if you will ask the G.O.C. 15th Infantry Brigade to convey
to Lt.Col. Allason D.S.O. [Walter ALLASON, DSO & Bar], and
the Officers and men of 1st Bedfordshire Regt., my appreciation and thanks
for the successful raid carried out by them last night. The operation
was skilfully planned, and carried out with a fine fighting spirit, and
the damage done to the enemy and the capture of the prisoners was most
commendable (sd) R.HAKING, Lieut.General Commanding XI Corps 5th
Division 2nd Nov., 1916
15th
Infy. Bde.
Please
let Col.Allason see this letter from the Corps Commander. I also
congratulate him and his Battalion most heartily. Please return. (sd)
R.B.STEPHENS, Major Gen., Commanding 5th Division XI Corps No.
I.G.8/21
REPORT
ON THE EXAMINATION OF 2 PRISONERS OF THE 6th BAV. REGT., 6th BAV. DIV.,
III BAV. CORPS, CAPTURED AT S.22.c.6.6. ON THE NIGHT OF THE 31st OCT/1st
NOV.
History No.1 is a reservist and served active from 1910 - 1912 in the 19th Bav. Regt. He was mobilised on the 4th August, 1914, and joined the 21st Bav. Regt. he was wounded in the leg towards the end of August, 1914 and remained in hospital until February, 1915, and then returned to the Depot of the 21st. Bav. Regt. He was sent out to the front again in July, 1916, to join the 21st Bav. Regt. He and about 20 other men of the 21st Bav. Regt. were transferred to the 6th Bav.Regt. about the middle of August, 1916, owing to the heavy casualties the 6th Bav. Regt. had suffered at VERDUN. Since being with the 6th Bav. Regt. this man seems to have spent most of the time in the rest station, as his leg was still very troublesome, and only returned to the regiment about 14 days ago.
No.2.
belongs to the 1915 class, was called up for service on the 1st March,
1915, and received his training at the Depot of the 6th Bav. Regt. He
joined the 6th Bav. Regt. at the front on 27th July, 1915. This man has
gone through the VERDUN fighting, was buried by the explosion of a shell
at FLERS, and sent to a rest station. He returned to duty about 8 days
ago. Order of Battle. From North to South: - 13th Bav.Regt., 6th Bav.Regt.,
11th Bav.Regt., all of the 6th Bav.Div. This Order of Battle confirms
that given by the officer prisoner of the 10th Bav.Regt. captured North
of NEUVE CHAPELLE on the 21st October. Company Strength. No.1 prisoner
belongs to the 4th Company, which has a strength of about 240 men, of
these about 40-50 men are "abkommandiort" (detached) for various duties.
No.2 prisoner belongs to the 8th Company, which has a strength of about
200 men, 40 of these are "abkommandiort", Neither of the prisoners are
able to give much information about the composition of the recent drafts,
they said these mostly consisted of returned wounded men and young recruits,
but did not know what class they belonged to. Reliefs and Rest Billets.
Reliefs are carried out every 5 days by battalions. One battalion holds
the front line, and one battalion is in reserve line near LORGIES. The
remaining battalion of the regiment is in rest billets at PETIT HANTAY,
where they live in barracks. The last relief took place on the 31st October
and was completed by 9 p.m. (English time). Rations Their rations are
very indifferent. There is no issue of fresh meat now, only tinned meat
is served out. The bread ration has been cut down to one-third of a loaf
per man per day, it used to be half a loaf a day. Trolley Line. No.2 prisoner,
who belongs to the 8th Company, had been detailed for the "Transport Trupp"
(Transport Section) of the 6th Bav.Regt. This section consists of 15 men,
whose duty is to bring up on the trolley line R.E. stores and rations
for the battalion in front line. The prisoner states that the R.E.stores
come from DON, and are brought up as far as SALOME HALT (B.3.b.) on a
light Field Railway. From SALOME HALT as far as the LA BASSEE Road (A.6.b.)
the trucks are drawn by horses, From the LA BASSEE Road up to the entrance
to ADALBERT ALLEY the men have to push the trucks (for trolley line used
see sketch map attached [not attached]. The "Transport Trupp" only works
at night, and on average they make about two journeys between the LA BASSEE
Road and the front line per night. This Section lives in a dug-out at
about B.2.d.4.9. General No.2 prisoner's Coy. went into the SOMME fighting
about 240 men strong and came out with 63 men, having suffered many casualties
from their own artillery fire. He does not think the 6th Bav. Div.will
take part in the SOMME fighting again, as they were severely handled both
at VERDUN and on the SOMME, and the men would consider it a punishment
if they were sent down again. One of the prisoners has a brother 46 years
old, belonging to the untrained Landsturm class, who was called up for
service two months ago in SILESIA. W.M.BECKWITH, Captain, General
Staff, XI Corps 3-11-16
OPERATION
ORDER No.32 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 4th Nov., 1916.
1. The Battalion will relieve the 16/R.Warwickshire Regiment in the trenches to-morrow.
2. Reliefs. "A" Coy. will relieve right firing line Coy. Leading platoon will pass KING'S CROSS 9.30 a.m. Coys will march by sections at 200 yds. interval, and will draw Gum Boots on their way in to the trenches. "C" Coy. will follow "A" and will relieve Coy. in support at RICHMOND TERRACE. "B" will follow "C" and will relieve left firing line Coy. "D" Coy. will follow "B" and will be in the O.B.L. H.Qrs. will follow "D" Coy.
3. Feet. O.C.Coys. will see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches, and a certificate to this effect will be rendered to the Orderly Room,
4. Posts which cannot be relieved in daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.
5. Stores. A list of stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.H.Qrs. as soon as possible after relief.
6.
Transport Officer will make arrangements for fetching Officers' Mess Stores
and Kit from billets. He will also arrange for Officers' trench stores
to be taken to KING'S CROSS
OPERATION
ORDER No.33 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 8th Nov., 1916
1. The Bn. will be relieved by the 16/Royal Warwickshire Regt. to-morrow, commencing about 10 a.m.
2. Coys. will proceed to their usual billets.
3. Posts. which cannot be relieved in daylight will be relieved as soon as it is dark.
4. O.C. "C" Coy. will leave an Officer to conduct these reliefs back.
5. Owing to KING'S ROAD and other places being under water, Gum Boots will be taken out of the trenches. I will make arrangements to send them back later.
6. Stores. A list of stores to be handed over will reach Bn.H.Q. by 8 a.m. at latest.
7.
Transport Officer will make all necessary arrangements.
OPERATION
ORDER No.34 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 12th Nov., 1916
1. The Bn. Will relieve the 16/R.Warwickshire Regt. in the trenches to-morrow.
2. Reliefs. "C" Coy. will relieve right firing line Coy. Leading platoon will pass KING'S CROSS at 4.0 p.m. Coys will march by sections at 200 yds. interval and draw Gum Boots on the way to trenches. "D" Coy. will follow "C" and relieve left firing line Coy. "A" will follow "D" and will relieve Coy. in Support. "B" Coy. will follow "A" and will relieve O.B.L. H.Qrs. will follow "B".
3. Feet. O.C.Coys. will see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches, and a certificate to this effect will be rendered to the Orderly Room.
4. Stores. A list of Stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.H.Qrs. as soon as possible after relief.
5. Transport Officer will make arrangements for fetching Officers' Mess Stores and Kit from billets. He will also arrange for Officers' trench stores to be taken to KING'S CROSS.
6.
O.B."B" Coy. will send 2 men 6.0 p.m. tonight to report to N.C.O. i.c
Gum Boot Store at BREWERY CORNER. These men will rejoin their Coy. to-morrow
morning.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 35 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 16th Nov., 1916
1. The Bn. will be relieved by the 16/Royal Warwickshire Regiment to-morrow, commencing about 5 p.m.
2. Companies will proceed to their usual billets.
3. Stores. A list of Stores to be handed over will reach Battalion Headquarters by 10 a.m. at latest.
4.
Transport. The Transport Officer will make all necessary arrangements.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 36 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 22nd Nov., 1916
1. The Battalion will relieve the 16th Royal Warwickshire Regiment in the trenches to-morrow.
2. Reliefs. "A" Company will relieve right firing line Company. Leading platoon will pass KING'S CROSS at 4.0 p.m. Companies will march by sections at 200 yards interval, and draw Gum Boots on the way to the trenches. "B" Company will follow "A" Company and relieve left firing line Company. "C" Company will follow "B" Company and will relieve Company in Support. "D" Company will follow "C" Company and relieve O.B.L. Headquarters will follow "D" Company.
3. Feet. O.C.Companies will see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches, and a certificate to this effect will be rendered to the Orderly Room.
4. Stores. A list of Stores that have been taken over will be sent to Battalion Headquarters as soon as possible after relief.
5. Transport Officer will make arranging [sic] for fetching Officer's Mess Stores and Kit from billets. he [sic] will also arrange for Officers' trench stores to be taken to KING'S CROSS.
6. O.C. "A" Company will send 2 men at 6 p.m. to-night to report to N.C.O. i/c Gum Boot Store at BREWERY CORNER. These men will rejoin their Company to-morrow morning.
7.
Companies will render a report of the number of Gum Boots drawn, and when
relieved, of the number of Gum Boots returned to Store. A report will
also be rendered by 6 p.m. daily certifying that men's feet have been
rubbed and boots changed twice during the previous 24 hours, and that
socks have been changed once in that period.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 37 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 26th Nov., 1916
1. The Bn. will be relieved by the 2/K.O.S.B. to-morrow, commencing about 5 p.m.
2. Coys. will proceed to their usual billets
3. Stores. A list of stores to be handed over will reach Bn. H.Qrs. by 10 a.m. at latest.
4. Transport. The Transport Officer will make all necessary arrangements.
5. O.C. "B" Coy. will have 3 guides at the junction of the O.B.L. and the RUE de CAILLOUX at 2 p.m.
6. O.C.Companies will hand over to the relieving unit a list of stores, and a written report containing all information about the line and of the work done and proposed, together with any sketch maps that may be in their possession. Particular attention will be paid to statements about, and sketches of, the state of our own wire.
7. O.C.Companies will render a certificate of the number of Gum Boots returned to Store, taking care that the exact number drawn are returned.
8.
All trench maps issued from this Office will be retained.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 38 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment 30th Nov., 1916
1. The Bn will relieve the 16/R.Warwickshire Regt. in the trenches to-morrow.
2. Reliefs "C" Coy. will relieve the right firing line Coy. and will leave their billets by sections at 200 yds. interval, so as the leading section reaches Bn.H.Q. LANSDOWNE HOUSE S.3.d.7/9, by 10.0 a.m. "D" Coy. will follow "C" and will relieve left firing line Coy. "A" will follow "D" and relieve the right Support Coy. "B" will follow "A" and relieve left Support Coy. H.Q. will follow "B" and will be in LANSDOWNE REDOUBT.
3. Signalling Officer will arrange to take over all telephones in the line during the morning.
4. Feet O.C.Coys. will see that all the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches. A certificate to this effect will be rendered to Orderly Room.
5. Stores. A list of stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.H.Q. as soon as possible after relief.
6. Transport Officer will make arrangements for fetching Officer' Mess Stores and Kit from Billets. He will also arrange for Officers' trench stores to be taken up.
7. O.C.Coys. will render a report by 6 p.m. daily, certifying that men's feet have been rubbed and boots changed twice during the previous 24 hours, and that socks have been changed once in that period.
8.
Completion of relief will be reported by orderlies.
OPERATION
ORDERS No.39 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 4th Dec., 1916
1. The Battalion will be relieved by the 12/Gloucester Regiment to-morrow, commencing about 10 a.m.
2. Four Guides per Company will be at Battalion Headquarters at 10.0 a.m. The Companies of the 12/Glosters will come in in the following order: - Left Firing Line; Left Support; Right Firing Line; Right Support.
3. Stores. A list of stores to be handed over will reach Battalion Headquarters by 8 a.m.at latest.
4. The Transport Officer will make all necessary arrangements.
5. O.C. Companies will hand over to the relieving unit a list of stores and a written report containing all information about the line and of the work done and proposed, together with any sketch maps that may be in their possession. Particular attention will be paid to statements about, and sketches of the state of our own wire.
6. On relief, Companies will withdraw to the ECOLE des JEUNES FILLES, BETHUNE.
7. Companies will withdraw to BETHUNE by route RICHEBOURG S. VAAST - LE TOURET, marching by sections at 200 yards interval as far as RICHEBOURG St.VAAST, by platoons as far as LE TOURET, thence by Companies.
8. Transport will move to the PLACE de LILLE (E.10.c.6/8)
9. Billeting party, consisting of 3 other ranks per company and 3 for Headquarters, will parade at Battalion Headquarters at 6 a.m.
10.
Companies will send cooks as soon as soon [sic] as breakfast is disposed
of. The Sergeant Cook will make arrangements to serve dinners as soon
as the men arrive in BETHUNE
OPERATION
ORDER No.39/1 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 4th Dec., '16
1. Three limbers and the mess carts will be at WINDY CORNER 9 a.m. to-morrow, 5th inst., Dixies and cooking gear will be at WINDY CORNER by 9 a..m. at which hour one limber will proceed under Sgt.Washington [6187 Bertie WASHINGTON, DCM], accompanied by the cooks. Officers' trench kits will be at WINDY CORNER 12 noon.
2.
The following code will be used for sending the completion of relief over
the telephone: - "A" Coy.: "ALL CORRECT" "B" Coy.: "YOUR B.D.10 RECEIVED"
"C" Coy.: "A HAVE NO OFFICER TO RECOMMEND" "D" Coy.: "No.10205 PTE.TARPY"
OPERATION
ORDER No. 40 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 19th Dec., 1916
1. The Battalion, less 1 Company, will relieve the 1/Leicester Regt. in the VILLAGE LINE to-morrow, 20th inst..
2. Reliefs. "A" Coy. will relieve "B" Coy. 1/Leics. "C" Coy. will relieve "A" Coy. 1/Leics. "D" Coy. will relieve "C" Coy. 1/Leics.
3. "B" Coy. will be at TOBACCO FACTORY at 10 a.m. O.C.Company will report to O.C.16/Royal Warwick Regt., and will be under his orders.
4. "A" Coy. will move off at 10.30 a.m. "C" Coy. at 11 a.m. "D" Coy. at 11.30 a.m. H.Qrs. at 12 noon. They will march by Coys. to Draw Bridge over LE PREOL [sic] Canal (F.10.e.7/0), thence by platoons at 200 yds interval. Guides will meet them at the Draw Bridge.
5. O.C. "B" Coy. will see that the men's feet are rubbed with oil before proceeding to the trenches. A certificate to this effect will be rendered to Orderly Room.
6. Stores. A list of stores that have been taken over will be sent to Bn.H.Qrs. as soon as possible after relief.
7. Coys. will report as soon as relief is complete, by Orderly.
8. Cooks under Sgt.Washington [6187 Bertie WASHINGTON, DCM] will move off at 9 a.m. They will report at H.Qrs. 1/Leicester Regt. in HARLEY STREET, and ask for guides.
9. Officers' Kits. Transport Officer will arrange to convey officers' complete kits. Kits must be ready by 9 p.m. at Qr.Master's Stores. 10. Blankets will be made up in rolls of
10, labelled, and piled in Workshop by 8 a.m. 1 man per Coy. to be detailed to load and accompany wagons.
11.
Posts will be furnished as under: - Bridge Guards "A" Coy. 1 N.C.O. and
3 men, PONT FIXE N. "C" Coy. 1 N.C.O. and 3 men, WESTMINSTER. "D" Coy.
1 N.C.O. and 3 men, IRON BRIDGE. Caretakers. "A" Coy. 2 men, WESTMINSTER
KEEP. "C" Coy. 2 men, MARRAIS, and 2 men GORRE S. "D" Coy. 2 men, LE QUESNOY.
Reliefs to be complete by 4 p.m. These men will be relieved on the 22nd.
OPERATION
ORDER No.40/1 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 21-12-16
1. "B" Company will be relieved in ESPERANTO TRENCH by "D" Coy. 16/R.Warwickshire Regt. to-morrow, 22nd inst.
2. On relief they will relieve a Company of the 2/York & Lancs.Regt. and take over PONT FIXE REDOUBT.
3.
O.C. "B" Coy. will report relief complete to Bn.H.Qrs by orderly, and
will send in complete list of all stores taken over by him.
OPERATION
ORDER 41 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 23-12-16
1. The Battalion will relieve the 16th Royal Warwickshire Regiment in front line CUINCHY right sub-sector, to-morrow, 24th inst.
2. "D" Coy. will relieve right firing line from BOYAU 27 to 33 inclusive. "A" Coy. will relieve the centre Coy. from BOYAU 33 to 37 inclusive. "C" Coy. will relieve left Coy. in 11 and 15 BRICKSTACKS and CABBAGE PATCH KEEP. "B" Coy. will relieve Support Coy. in ESPERANTO TRENCH and No.3 BRICKSTACK KEEP. H.Q.Company will relieve H.Q. at KINGSCLERE.
3. Coys. will move in above-named order. "D" Coy. will move off at 9 a.m., remainder at 1/2 hour's intervals. These times and order of formation already issued will be strictly adhered to. H.Q. Coy. will move last.
4. Guides for "D" Coy. will meet them at Corner of EDGEWARE [sic] ROAD. Guides for remaining Coys. will be at Bn. H.Qrs., KINGSCLERE.
5. Gum Boots. "D" Coy. will draw Gum Boots from BRADDELL CASTLE. Remaining Companies will draw Gum Boots from Store in HARLEY STREET.
6. Cookhouse. The Bn. Cookhouse is in HARLEY STREET near GIRL'S SCHOOL. Sgt.Washington [6187 Bertie WASHINGTON, DCM] will arrange to take this over from 16/R.Warwickshire Regt. in time to get dinners ready for the Battalion. All hot food has to be carried up to the Coys. in trenches. the R.S.M. will arrange for the necessary carrying parties. O's.C. Coys will arrange for guides, 1 for each platoon, to be at Cookhouse to guide Carrying parties.
7. Blankets will be rolled in bundles of 10, labelled and brought to H.Qrs. in HARLEY STREET. Officers' Kits will be brought to H.Qrs. in HARLEY STREET. The R.S.M. will detail a sentry for these. Transport Officer will arrange to collect these when rations are brought up.
8. Coy. Commanders will immediately report the relief complete by runners.
9. A list of stores that have been taken over will be sent to Orderly Room as soon as possible after relief.
10.
Dispositions. Coy.Commanders will render to Orderly Room as soon as possible
a report on the Dispositions of their Coys.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 42 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 27th Dec., 1916
1. The Battalion will be relieved to-morrow, 28th inst. by the 1st Bn. Cheshire Regt., commencing about 9.30 a.m.
2. "D" Coy. will be relieved by "A" Coy. 1/Cheshire Regt. "A" Coy. will be relieved by "B" Coy., 1/Cheshire Regt. "C" Coy. will be relieved by "D" Coy., 1/Cheshire Regt. "B" Coy. will be relieved by "C" Coy. 1/Cheshire Regt.
3. Guides will be sent by Coys. as under: - (a) "D" Coy. will send guides as already arranged for by Coy. Commanders concerned. (b) "A" "B" and "C" Coys. will arrange to have guides (1 for each platoon) at Bn. Headquarters, KINGSCLERE, by 10 a.m.
4.
On relief platoons and Lewis Gus will proceed independently by Canal Bank
to WESTMINSTER BRIDGE, where guides will be waiting to take them to billets
at LE QUESNOY. The distance of 200 yards between Halford [Montague
Walter HALFORD, MC] assumes 2nd in Cmd. Had Drummers up to help carrying.
Billetted in dug outs at HARLEY STREET end of DAWSON STREET.
5. Officers' kits etc., must be taken to Cookhouse in HARLEY STREET by 9 a.m. Transport Officer will arrange to collect these and bring them to billets. 1 man of each Coy. to remain with kits to help load in the evening.
6. Cooks will proceed as soon as possible after breakfast, under instructions of Sgt.Washington [6187 Bertie WASHINGTON, DCM] .
7. Coy. Commanders will report relief complete by Orderly to Bn. H.Qrs. at KINGSCLERE.
8. All Gum Boots to be taken back to Store from which they were drawn. N.B. Reference para.4, parties must not consist of more than
10.
Reference O.O.42, para.5, issued to-day, Officers' Kits, Mess Boxes, etc.,
must be at Cookhouse in HARLEY STREET not later than 9 a.m. and will have
to be carried a short distance up the CAMBRIAN ROAD, where the limbers
will meet them. The Drummers will help, and will act as guides. Officers'
servants will be responsible that officers' kits are loaded on the limbers.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 43 1st BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 31st Dec., 1916
1. The Battalion will relieve the 16/Royal Warwickshire Regt. in CUINCHY Left Sub-sector to-morrow, 1st Jan., 1917.
2. "D" Coy. will relieve "Canal" Coy. with 2 platoons South of Canal, under orders of O.C. Right Sub-sector Battalion; 2 platoons North of Canal near Lock. "A" Coy. will relieve right Coy. immediately North of Canal. "D" Coy.will relieve Left Coy. "C" Coy. will relieve Centre Coy. O.C. Coys. will arrange for their men to be at VAUXHALL BRIDGE where guides will meet them at the following times: - The 2 platoons of "D" Coy. for South of Canal 10 a.m. "A", or Right Coy 10.10 a.m. The 2 platoons in support of "B" Coy. 10.30 a.m. "D" or Left Coy. 10.40 a.m. "C", or Centre Coy. 11.0 a.m. Headquarters 11.20 a.m. Times to and distances between parties must be adhered to rigidly.
3. Gum Boots will be drawn from Gum Boot Store; Map ref. A.14.a.8/9.
4. Coy. Commanders will report immediately that relief is complete, by orderly, and send in a list of all stores handed over to them, and their dispositions as soon as possible.
5. Officers' kits and Trench kits must be ready by 9 a.m. Transport Officer will arrange to collect these and send trench kits up with the rations. Guides to officers' billets must be at H.Qrs. by 9 a.m.
6. Blankets to be rolled in bundles of 10, securely labelled and collected in one pile outside the respective billets. 1 man per Coy. must be left as guard and to help in loading.
7. Cooks will be sent forward as soon as possible after breakfast. The Transport will collect cooking utensils etc., and take them to WESTMINSTER BRIDGE, from there they will be carried with the assistance of Drummers.
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