1. Tanks are available as follows:
_5th Tank Brigade._
Mark V. Tanks--2nd Battalion--Lieut.-Col. E. D.
BRYCE, D.S.O.
Mark V. Tanks--8th Battalion--Lieut.-Col. The Hon.
J. D. Y. BINGHAM,
D.S.O.
13th Battalion--Lieut.-Col. P. LYON.
Mark V. (Star) Tanks--15th Battalion--Lieut.-Colonel
RAMSEY-FAIRFAX.
No. 1 G.C.Coy. (24 Carrying Tanks)--Major W. PARTINGTON,
M.C.
2. _Mark V. Tanks_ are allotted as follows:
13th Battalion (Lieut.-Col. LYON), less one company, to 3rd
Australian Division.
2nd Battalion (Lieut.-Col. BRYCE), plus one company 13th Battalion
attached, to be employed with the two right Divisions--two
companies to be allotted to each Division.
8th Battalion (Lieut.-Col. The Hon. J. D. Y. BINGHAM) to 4th
Australian Division.
One company of the 8th Battalion will be employed in support. It will
be specially charged with the function of maintaining the attack at
the junction of Divisions throughout the advance as far as the second
objective.
Command will be effected through Battalion Commanders in each case
except that Lieut.-Col. BRYCE will be responsible for command of all
Mark V. Tanks allotted to both 2nd and 5th Australian Divisions.
3. After the capture of the first objective, Tanks detailed to 2nd and
3rd Australian Divisions will rally and will be employed to support the
advance of the 5th and 4th Australian Divisions respectively.
4. After the capture of the second objective, Tanks will rally. One
company will remain in close support in each divisional sector; the
remainder will be withdrawn to positions to be arranged between
Divisional and Tank Commanders.
5. Mark V. (Star) Tanks are allotted as follows:
1½ companies (18 tanks) to the 5th Australian Division.
1½ companies (18 tanks) to the 4th Australian Division.
These tanks are allotted for the capture of the blue line.
_6. Carrying Tanks_ are allotted as follows:
2nd and 3rd Australian Divisions--3 tanks each.
4th and 5th Australian Divisions--9 tanks each.
7. Orders for forming up and movement to the Start Line will be issued
by G.O.C., 5th Tank Brigade.
Battalion Commanders detailed to Divisions will be responsible for all
liaison duty in connection with the Tanks.
8. For tactical purposes Tanks will be placed under the command of
Infantry Commanders to whose commands they are allotted.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 5A
ASSEMBLY OF TANKS
_1. Preliminary Movement._
Tanks will be assembled in concealed positions in the forward area
under the orders of the 5th Tank Brigade prior to night Y/Z.
_2. Advance to Start Line._
On night Y/Z the Tanks allotted to troops attacking the first objective
will commence to move forward at 9.30 p.m. to the Tank Start Line. They
will move with full engines to a line not nearer to the Tank Start Line
than 3,000 yards. From there they will continue the movement forward to
the Tank Start Line, moving at a slow rate and as quietly as possible.
The Tank Start Line will be approximately 1,000 yards in rear of the
Infantry taped line.
Tanks will leave the Tank Start Line at such times as will allow them
to catch up to the Infantry as the barrage lifts at zero plus three
minutes.
_3. Concealment of Engine Noise._
To conceal the noise of the engines during the advance of the Tanks,
the 5th Brigade R.A.F. will arrange to have planes flying continuously
over the Corps area from 9.30 p.m. until midnight on Y/Z night, and
from zero minus one hour onward to zero.
_4. Tanks allotted to Second Objective._
The Tanks allotted to the second objective will form up independently
under the orders of the 5th Tank Brigade in consultation with G.O.'s
C., 4th and 5th Australian Divisions. These Tanks will be formed up
when the aeroplanes are in the air during the hours laid down in para.
3.
_5. Liaison Company._
The company of the 8th Tank Battalion detailed to act in support, and
to ensure liaison in the battle line at the junction of Divisions, will
detail a half-company to each wave of Tanks, vide paras. 2 and 4 above.
Divisions will detail special liaison parties of Infantry to work in
co-operation with this company.
_6. Re-assembly._
As soon as the blue line has been reached, G.O.C. 5th Australian
Division will arrange to release the 2nd Tank Battalion, less the
attached company. This battalion will then be withdrawn. The remainder
of the Tanks, less one company allotted to remain in support of each of
the 4th and 5th Australian Divisions, will be withdrawn when ordered by
Divisional Commanders, vide Battle Instructions No. 5, para. 4.
_7. Smoke Grenades._
Divisions will ensure that a proportion of smoke rifle grenades
accompanies each Infantry detachment detailed to the blue line and
which accompanies each of the Mark V. (Star) Tanks.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 6
ARTILLERY
_1. Preparation._
Active counter-battery work and harassing fire will be maintained.
Such registration as is necessary will be carried out under cover of
this fire. A detailed programme for this will be arranged in each
divisional sector.
The necessity for concealing the increase in the number of guns on the
front must be borne in mind, and on no account should a large number
of guns be employed at any one time. Counter preparation and S.O.S.
plans during the period of preparation for the attack will be drawn up
accordingly.
Normal fire should, so far as possible, be carried out from positions
other than those in which batteries will be emplaced during the battle.
_2. Heavy Artillery._
(_a_) In view of the nature of the enemy's defences, the fire of
the majority of the heavy howitzers, employed for purposes other
than counter-battery work, will be used during the barrage to
engage special strong points or localities.
(_b_) Throughout the advance beyond the green line enemy centres of
resistance will be kept under fire until such time as the progress
of the Infantry renders this inadvisable. A map will be issued to
show the times at which heavy artillery fire will cease on zones
and special localities.
(_c_) At least two-thirds of the available Heavy Artillery will be
employed for counter-battery purposes.
Heavy concentrations of fire will be directed on the different
groups of enemy artillery.
3. G.O.C., R.A., will prepare plans for dealing with a heavy
development of hostile fire on zero night. He will also prepare a
plan to deal with any attempt at a deliberate gas bombardment of the
VILLERS-BRETONNEUX area on zero night.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 7
PROGRAMME OF ACTION
_1. Capture of First Objective._
(_a_) Forming-up troops detailed to the capture of the first objective
will be deployed on the Forming-up Line one hour before zero hour.
(_b_) _Artillery Programme._
(i) The field artillery 18-pdr. barrage will open at zero 200 yards
in advance of the forming-up line. At zero plus three minutes
the barrage will commence to advance; lifts will be 100 yards at
2-minute intervals. There will be two lifts at this rate.
The rate will then decrease to lifts of 100 yards every 3 minutes.
There will be eight lifts at this rate.
From the eleventh lift inclusive until the green line is reached
lifts will be of 100 yards each at 4-minute intervals.
(ii) The 4.5" Howitzer barrage will move 200 yards in advance of
the 18-pdr. barrage.
(iii) A protective barrage will be maintained in front of the green
line until zero plus four hours. During this period approximately
fifty per cent. (50%) of the guns remaining in the barrage will
be employed in a protective line barrage; the remainder will be
employed to search and sweep deeply into the enemy's position. At
zero plus four hours all barrage fire will cease.
Barrage Maps will be issued later.
_2. Capture of Second and Third Objectives._
(_a_) _Assembly._--5th and 4th Australian Divisions will select and
mark positions for the assembly of their troops.
These areas will be selected in liaison with Tank Commanders and with
the 2nd and 3rd Australian Divisions respectively, to prevent movement
to them clashing with the approach march of these divisions and that of
the Tanks.
This requires careful co-ordination between each pair of Divisions and
Tank Commanders.
(_b_) _Command._--At zero plus four hours, responsibility for the
battle front will pass to G.O.C., 5th Australian Division, in the right
sector, and to G.O.C., 4th Australian Division, in the left sector.
(_c_) _The Advance._--5th and 4th Australian Divisions will time their
advance so that the leading troops cross the first objective (green
line) at zero plus four hours.
(_d_) From zero plus four hours the advance will be continued under the
conditions of open warfare.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 8
ROADS
1. A map is forwarded herewith showing the organization of the road
system in the captured territory.
2. The Chief Engineer will issue the necessary instructions for the
preparation of these roads for traffic.
3. All light traffic which is capable of moving across country will do
so and will avoid main roads.
4. Mule tracks will be a divisional responsibility.
5. Artillery advancing with the 5th and 4th Australian Divisions will
carry forward a proportion of bridges. Arrangements should be made
as soon as possible for the development of tracks, making use of the
routes taken by the artillery over these bridges.
6. The AMIENS--LONGUEAU--VILLERS-BRETONNEUX main road, as far east as
the cross roads in N.26.c., will be reserved for the exclusive use of
the Cavalry Corps from 9.30 p.m. on Y/Z night until 8 a.m. on Z day.
After 8 a.m. on Z day it will be available for the Australian and
Cavalry Corps.
Assistant Provost Marshal, Australian Corps, will arrange for the
control of the traffic on this road throughout.
Chief Engineer, Australian Corps, will prepare short avoiding roads at
the cross roads at N.26.c. to cross the north-east or south-west corner
to avoid congestion at this spot.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 9
LIGHT SIGNALS, MESSAGE ROCKETS, SMOKE
_1. Light Signals._
(_a_) _Australian Corps._
The following Light Signals will be employed in the Australian
Corps:
S.O.S. Signal, No. 32 grenade--showing green over green over green.
Allotment 500 per Division.
Success Signal, No. 32 grenade--showing white over white over
white. Allotment 600 per Division.
A small reserve of each of these grenades is held at Corps Headquarters.
No other Light Signals will be laid down by Corps. There is no
objection to the use within Divisions of a Very Light for the local
indication of targets between Infantry and Tanks.
(_b_) _Other Formations._
Light Signals of other formations are as follows:
_Formation._ _Signal._ _Meaning._
(i) Cavalry Corps. White star turning "Advanced troops
to red on a parachute of Cavalry are
fired from here."
1½" Very pistol.
(ii) Third Corps. No. 32 grenade, "S.O.S."
green over green
over green.
No. 32 grenade, "Success signal,
white over white _i.e._, we have
over white. reached objective."
One white Very "Barrage is about
light. to lift."
(iii) Canadian Corps No. 32 grenade, "S.O.S." will also
red over red mean (_a_) "We are
over red. held up and cannot
advance without
help." (_b_) "Enemy
is counter-attacking."
No. 32 grenade, "(_a_) Lift your fire.
green over green We are going to
over green. advance. (_b_) Stop
firing."
Three white Very "We have reached
lights in quick this point."
succession.
_Remark._--In the case of (_a_) a smoke rocket (No. 27 grenade)
will also be fired in the direction of the obstruction to indicate
its position.
(_c_) Special care must be taken by the Artillery on the right
flank of the Corps that all officers and N.C.O.'s are acquainted
with these signals, so that no mistake may arise as regards the
difference in the S.O.S. Signals of the Australian and Canadian
Corps.
2. _Message-carrying Rockets._
Allotment of Message-carrying Rockets is 80 per Division.
3. _Smoke._
(_a_) Artillery smoke will be as follows:
(_i_) 3 rounds per gun will be fired during the first three minutes
of the artillery barrage.
(_ii_) 3 rounds per gun will be fired in quick succession on the
arrival of the field artillery barrage at the artillery halt line
covering the first objective.
(_iii_) In the event of wet weather a small proportion of smoke
will be used in the barrage to replace the smoke and dust caused by
the burst of the shells in dry weather. This will not be sufficient
to confuse the effect with that of the smoke shells prescribed in
paragraph 3 (_a_) (i) and (ii).
(_b_) _Screening beyond the First Objective._
15th Wing, Royal Air Force, will arrange to screen the advance of the
Tanks and Infantry from special localities in advance of their first
objective by dropping phosphorus bombs.
Divisions and G.O.C., 5th Tank Brigade, will inform Australian Corps
Headquarters as early as possible of the localities which they desire
screened.
A map will be issued showing times at which it is anticipated that the
Infantry will make good certain zones. Phosphorus bombs will not be
dropped within these zones at any time after it is anticipated that the
Infantry will have occupied them.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 10
INTELLIGENCE AND DISPOSAL OF PRISONERS OF WAR
1. _Battalion Intelligence Police._
One German speaker and two searchers will be allotted to each battalion
for use as follows:
(_a_) _German Speaker._
(i) To secure immediate identifications quickly, so that
identifications will reach Corps Headquarters as speedily as
possible of enemy units on the battle front.
(ii) To secure immediate information required by the Battalion
Commander as regards enemy dispositions, assembly positions, orders
for counter-attack, etc.
(iii) To be in charge of the two searchers and separate important
documents, orders, maps, etc., translate and convey information of
moment to the immediate Commander.
(_b_) _Two Searchers._
The two searchers under the German speaker systematically search the
battlefield, enemy positions, suspected headquarters, dead, etc., for
papers, documents, maps, etc., have them packed in sandbags, and sent
through the usual channels to the Corps Cage as quickly as possible.
This personnel should carry torches and, besides rifles or revolvers,
bombs are recommended as being useful for dealing with any of the enemy
who may be found in dug-outs.
2. _Divisional Intelligence Officers._
Divisional Intelligence Officers will go forward to an Advanced
Divisional Collecting Cage, with a view to obtaining, as soon as
possible, information of immediate tactical importance.
The Cage will be connected by telephone to Divisional H.Q., and
important information obtained should be transmitted as quickly as
possible to Divisional and Brigade H.Q.
The main points on which immediate information is required from
prisoners are: The Order of Battle, Units seen, Distribution of the
Enemy's Forces, Method of holding the Line, Assembly Positions,
Counter-attack Orders and Intentions.
This information will be wired to their respective Divisional
Headquarters and repeated to Corps Headquarters and Corps Cage by
Divisional Intelligence Officers.
Divisional Intelligence Officers will not detain prisoners longer
than is necessary to obtain this tactical information of immediate
importance.
In case a large number of prisoners are captured, they will detain only
one or two from each regiment, and will not delay the passage of the
remainder to the Corps Cage.
Any further information required from prisoners by Divisions or lower
formations can always be obtained by telephone from the Corps Cage.
3. _Searching of Prisoners._
(_a_) _Officers and N.C.O.'s._
Officers and N.C.O.'s will be searched as soon as possible after
capture by a responsible officer or N.C.O., and all documents taken
from them sent back with them (in sacks, labelled by regiments, if
a number are captured) to the Divisional Intelligence Officer, at
such place as this officer has prearranged.
It is left to the discretion of Divisional Intelligence Officers as
to what documents, maps, etc., taken from prisoners they hold back
for the information of Brigade and Divisional Commanders. When this
is done, Corps "I" will be informed by wire, priority if necessary,
of the nature of the documents, etc., held back, and of any points
of immediate tactical importance they may contain.
As soon as possible after information has been extracted from them,
the documents will be forwarded on to the Corps Cage. Arrangements
can be made by Corps, if notified that documents are ready to be
sent on, to fetch them by motorcyclist or cycle.
(_b_) _Other Ranks._
Prisoners other than officers and N.C.O.'s will be searched on
their arrival at the Corps Cage. Their papers, etc., will be taken
from them and put into sacks labelled according to regiments.
(_c_) All ranks should understand that a prisoner's pay-book,
identity disc, and personal belongings should not be taken from
him. Escorts and guards will be warned to take special precautions
to prevent prisoners from destroying papers.
4. _Separation of Officers, N.C.O.'s and Men._
Care will be taken that officers, N.C.O.'s and privates are all
separated from one another at once, and are not allowed to communicate
with one another. Prisoners who have been interrogated should not be
allowed to mix with those who have not yet been interrogated.
5. _Notification of Locality of Capture._
It is essential that, when prisoners are sent back, information be sent
with them which will show where they were captured. Information as to
the battalion which made the capture is a useful indication.
6. _Authorized Persons only to converse with Prisoners._
It is most important that no officer or N.C.O., except those duly
authorized, be allowed to interrogate or converse with prisoners.
7. _Prisoners of War Cage._
The Advanced Corps Cage will be situated at VECQUEMONT, N.11.b.8.7. and
the Rear Corps Cage at N.2.c.3.7.
Intelligence Officers and personnel will be stationed here, and will
carry out a more detailed interrogation and sort out captured documents.
The Advanced Corps Cage will be connected by telephone to Corps H.Q.
8. _Prisoners._
The following procedure will be adopted for the disposal of prisoners:
After capture they will be escorted to the Advanced Divisional
Collecting Cage, for examination by the Divisional Intelligence
Officer, who, after he has finished with them, will send them back to
the Advanced Corps Cage.
The sending back of prisoners should be carried out as quickly as
possible, and several escorts should be arranged for them to be passed
back without any unusual delay. Instructions should be issued to ensure
that too many men are not employed on escort duty.
In the forward area directing notices should be placed to show the
route to be taken to the Advanced Divisional Collecting Cage.
Traffic control personnel should be conversant with the method of
disposing of prisoners.
9. _Identifications._
The importance of passing on all identifications as speedily as
possible to Corps "I" cannot be too strongly impressed on all
concerned. It is essential that special efforts be made to wire at
once, as soon as identifications are made and the locality in which
obtained.
10._ Maps and Photographs._
The following maps are being issued:
(i) A large issue of 1/20,000 No. 62.D. South-East regular series
for distribution to all officers.
(ii) 1/20,000 Map Message Form, for distribution down to N.C.O.'s.
(iii) A small issue of 1/10,000 Maps of forward area only.
(iv) 1/20,000 Barrage Map, for distribution down to Company
Commanders.
(v) 1/40,000 Organization Map, together with notes on the enemy.
The following special photographs are being issued:
(_a_) A Mosaic of each Divisional front, squared and contoured and
freely annotated, for distribution down to N.C.O.'s.
(_b_) Oblique Photographs of each Divisional front, for
distribution to all officers.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 11
CO-OPERATION OF INFANTRY AND AIRCRAFT
1. _Contact Aeroplanes._
(i) _Indication of position by flares._
(_a_) Red ground flares will be used to indicate the infantry
positions to contact aeroplanes. They will be lit by infantry in
the most advanced line only.
(_b_) A contact aeroplane will fly along the line of the first
objective at zero plus 2 hours 30 minutes. Flares will be called
for by the aeroplane sounding a succession of "A's" on the Klaxon
horn and by firing a white Very Light. If the aeroplane fails to
mark the line accurately, it will repeat its call ten minutes later.
Should the infantry not have reached the line of the objective at
the time laid down above, the contact aeroplane will return at
half-hour intervals until flares are shown.
(_c_) A contact aeroplane will fly along the line of the second
objective at zero plus 6 hours 30 minutes. It will call for flares,
and the same procedure will be followed on this objective as on the
first objective until the flares are seen.
(_d_) A contact aeroplane will fly over third objective at zero
plus 7 hours, when the procedure laid down for the first objective
will be observed until the flares are shown.
(_e_) Divisions will organize message-dropping stations in the
vicinity of their Headquarters.
(ii) _Other means of identifying the position of the Infantry._
(_a_) _Rifles._--Three or four rifles laid parallel across the top
of the trench.
(_b_) _Metal Discs._--Metal discs will be used as reflectors by
flashing in the sun. This method has been successful even on days
which have not been particularly bright.
The disc is most easily carried sewn to the Small Box Respirator,
and can be used in this way without inconvenience.
2. _Counter-attack Planes._
(_a_) From zero hour counter-attack planes will be constantly in
the air, with the object of observing hostile concentrations or
abnormal movement.
(_b_) In the event of an enemy concentration indicating a
counter-attack, the counter-attack aeroplane will signal this
information to the Artillery by wireless. In the case of a
counter-attack actually developing a white parachute flare will be
fired by the aeroplane in the direction of the troops moving for
the impending counter-attack, for the information of the Infantry.
3. _Ammunition-carrying Aeroplanes._
(_a_) Aeroplanes will be detailed to transport ammunition from zero
plus 2 hours 30 minutes.
(_b_) Vickers guns will display a white "V" at the point where
ammunition is to be dropped. The arms of the "V" to be 6 feet in
length and 1 foot in width. The apex of the "V" to point towards
the enemy.
(_c_) Ammunition aeroplanes will have the under-side of the lower
planes painted black for a distance of 2½ feet from the tips.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 12
CONSOLIDATION
1. _Divisions allotted to First Objective._
(_a_) _Consolidation._--As soon as the first objective has been
captured troops will dig in.
(_b_) _Troops holding present front line._--The brigades of 2nd and
3rd Australian Divisions holding the line on the night prior to zero
will remain in their battle positions until all troops detailed to the
attack have passed through. They will then be organized and prepared to
move to meet any emergency.
2nd Australian Division will be prepared to detach its brigade to act
in support of 5th Australian Division, and 3rd Australian Division to
detach its brigade in support of 4th Australian Division.
(_c_) _Reorganization of Troops on First Objective._--As soon as the
whole of the troops detailed to the capture of second (red line) and
third (blue line) objectives have passed through the line of the
first objective, 2nd and 3rd Australian Divisions will organize the
defence of their sectors on the first objective in depth in each
brigade sub-sector. Units will be reorganized, and those not detailed
to the defence of the line will be withdrawn into support and held in
readiness for eventualities. At least one battalion in each brigade
sub-sector should be withdrawn in this way.
2. _Second Objective._
_Consolidation._--As soon as the second objective (the red line)
has been captured, the position will be thoroughly consolidated.
Arrangements will be made to ensure a supply of engineering material
for this.
3. _Main Line of Resistance._
(_a_) When the third objective (the blue line) is attained, it will be
organized and consolidated as the main line of resistance.
(_b_) If the enemy is able to develop an immediate counter-attack, or
if he has a definite plan, and the troops available in close reserve
for the defence of the blue line, it may not be possible to reach
the third objective. In this case the second objective (red line)
will become the main line of resistance, and will be consolidated and
organized in depth accordingly.
(_c_) Definite plans will be prepared to deal with either case.
The Corps must be prepared, as early as possible, to fight a stiff
defensive battle on the main line of resistance.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 13
1. The 5th Australian Division will move into its assembly area by
Brigade Groups as follows:
"A" Brigade Group on the night 4th-5th August from MONTIÈRES
to CAMON and RIVERY area. Quarters have been arranged for one
brigade, less one battalion. Shelters will be drawn from Area
Commandant, CAMON, for this battalion.
"B" Brigade Group from ALLONVILLE area to forward area.
"C" Brigade Group from VAUX area to ALLONVILLE area.
2. For the purposes of staging, POULAINVILLE will be included as one of
the battalion areas of the ALLONVILLE brigade area.
The camp in BOIS DE MAI has been allotted for the use of the 5th
Division nucleus.
It is left to the discretion of the G.O.C., 5th Australian Division,
as to whether the Battalion at POULAINVILLE moves on the night of 4th
August.
3. On the night 5th-6th August the 5th Australian Division will
continue its move into its allotted assembly grounds in the forward
area.
4. Rear parties are to be left in charge of all camps until handed over
to the Area Commandant.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 14
ARMOURED CAR BATTALION
1. The 17th Armoured Car Battalion has been placed at the disposal of
the Australian Corps, and will join the 5th Tank Brigade shortly.
2. This battalion is organized in two companies of eight (8) armoured
cars each. Each armoured car carries one forward and one rear Hotchkiss
gun.
3. One and a half (1½) companies are allotted to the 5th Australian
Division, and half (½) a company will remain in Corps Reserve.
The half company detailed to remain in Corps Reserve will select a
position of assembly in Square 0.26, and will occupy this position
by 9.30 p.m. on Y/Z night. During the action its orders will be
transmitted through the 5th Australian Divisional Signal Service. The
Commander will arrange with the 5th Australian Division accordingly.
4. As soon as the Battalion Commander or his representative reports to
the 5th Tank Brigade, he will be instructed to report to the General
Staff, Australian Corps, and then to Headquarters, 5th Australian
Division.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 14A
ARMOURED CAR BATTALION
1. The 17th Armoured Car Battalion is being given definite rôles
in accordance with paragraph 3 of Battle Instructions No. 14. The
rôles assigned to this battalion may carry the cars forward for a
considerable distance into enemy territory, and may necessitate their
returning through other Divisional Sectors than that of the 5th
Australian Division.
2. British Armoured Cars can be recognized by the red and white band
markings which are similar to those of the British Tanks.
3. All troops will be warned of the possibility of our armoured cars
coming into our own sector, and of the way in which they are marked.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 15
ZERO HOUR--SYNCHRONIZATION OF WATCHES
1. _Zero Hour._
Zero hour will be notified in writing from Australian Corps
Headquarters by noon on the day prior to zero.
2. _Synchronization of Watches._
Watches will be synchronized by officers detailed by Australian Corps
Headquarters, who will visit Headquarters in the following order,
leaving Corps Headquarters shortly after noon and 6 p.m. on Y day:
(_a_) One officer to Headquarters Heavy Artillery, 3rd Australian
Division and 4th Australian Division.
(_b_) One officer to 2nd Australian Division and 5th Australian
Division.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 16
AIRCRAFT
1. The Air Forces which will operate on the Australian Corps front
during the battle will be as follows:
(_a_) Corps Squadron--3rd Australian Squadron.
(_b_) 5th Tank Brigade--8th Squadron.
(_c_) The 22nd Wing, consisting of eight Scout Squadrons, which
will be exclusively employed in engaging ground targets by bombing
and machine-gunning along the whole Army front.
(_d_) One night-bombing squadron--101st Bombing Squadron.
(_e_) One Reconnaissance Squadron--48th Squadron.
Four additional day-bombing squadrons and three additional
night-bombing squadrons are being obtained from other Wings for
co-operation with the above, making 19 Squadrons in all.
2. _Low-flying Scouts._
The low-flying scouts of the 22nd Wing are being detailed on an even
distribution to the Corps front. They will operate in two phases, viz.:
(_a_) From zero to zero plus four hours eastward from the green
line.
(_b_) From zero plus four hours onwards eastwards from the red line.
In each phase favourable targets will be engaged in addition to the
targets marked by the green and red lines.
3. _Markings on Planes._
The following will be the special markings of machines allotted to
special duties:
(_a_) Contact patrol machines--Rectangular panels 2' by 1' on both
lower planes about three feet from the fuselage.
(_b_) Machines working with Tanks--Black band on middle of right
side of tail.
4. _Ammunition-carrying Squadron._
Aeroplanes carrying small arms ammunition will drop it at points
as laid down in Battle Instructions No. 11, para. 3 (b). The first
ammunition-carrying planes will arrive over the battlefield at zero
plus seven hours.
5. _Aeroplane Smoke Screens._
In addition to carrying small arms ammunition, this Squadron will be
employed to drop phosphorus smoke bombs to obstruct the enemy's view.
The areas to be screened and the time at which the screening in each
case shall cease in order not to interfere with the advance of the
Infantry will be shown on a map to be issued later.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 17
ARTILLERY ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE LAST NIGHT BEFORE ZERO
1. _S.O.S._
(_i_) Each line division will arrange for four field artillery
brigades, or an equivalent number of guns, to fire on S.O.S. lines
at any time up to zero minus fifteen minutes.
(_ii_) From zero minus fifteen minutes until zero hour S.O.S.
arrangements will be inoperative.
2. _Heavy Artillery._
In the event of the enemy opening a gas bombardment on the
VILLERS-BRETONNEUX area, arrangements have been made for the
co-operation of the Canadian Corps Heavy Artillery in an artillery
counter-attack on enemy batteries. The Canadian Corps will deal with
the enemy artillery about WIENCOURT and MARCELCAVE. Fire will be
opened, on application, direct between the two Corps Headquarters.
G.O.C., R.A., Australian Corps, will arrange details with G.O.C., R.A.,
Canadian Corps.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 18
These are not reproduced. They refer only to Wireless Code Calls
prescribed for all units.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 19
LIAISON ARRANGEMENTS
1. Officers are detailed for liaison duties as follows:
(_a_) At Canadian Corps Headquarters--Capt. SHEARMAN, D.S.O., M.C.
(_b_) At Third Corps Headquarters--Major R. MORRELL, D.S.O.
(_c_) With 1st Australian Division--To be notified.
(_d_) With 2nd Australian Division--Major H. PAGE, M.C.
(_e_) With 3rd Australian Division--Lt.-Col. A. R. WOOLCOCK, D.S.O.
(_f_) With 4th Australian Division--Major G. F. DICKINSON, D.S.O.
(_g_) With 5th Australian Division--Lt.-Col. N. MARSHALL, D.S.O.
2. The main function of the liaison officer is to relieve the Staff of
the fighting formation of the necessity of:
(_a_) Supplying information to Australian Corps Headquarters.
(_b_) Collecting information from Corps Headquarters for
transmission to the formation for whom they are carrying out
liaison duties. It is their function to save the Staff as far as
possible, and not to get in the way. At the same time, they are
expected to keep Corps Headquarters and the formation to which they
are attached fully informed of events.
3. Direct telephone lines exist between Australian Corps Headquarters
and neighbouring Corps.
For the battle there is a special General Staff switchboard with direct
lines to 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Australian Divisions.
4. An information bureau will be established in a marquee to be erected
on the lawn in front of the Headquarters offices. Major W. W. BERRY
will be in charge of this bureau. It will be provided with a telephone,
writing material, maps, etc.
Liaison officers from other formation at Australian Corps Headquarters
will be accommodated in this marquee.
During the battle officers whose business does not require them to
visit the General Staff Office will make all inquiries at this office
for information as to the progress of the operations.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 20
CAVALRY
1. The First Cavalry Brigade, plus one company of Whippet Tanks
attached, comes under the command of the Australian Corps Commander at
9 p.m. on Y/Z night.
2. Its function is to assist in carrying out the main Cavalry rôle by
seizing any opportunity which may occur to push through this Corps
front.
3. The First Cavalry Brigade will operate north of the AMIENS--CHAULNES
railway in conjunction with 5th Australian Division. It will move
from its assembly position in Square n.32 under orders of G.O.C., 1st
Cavalry Division, via the southern side of BOIS DE L'ABBÉ.
It will cross to the north side of the railway east of
VILLERS-BRETONNEUX.
It will push forward patrols to keep in touch with 8th and 15th
Australian Brigades.
After crossing the railway the main body of 1st Cavalry Brigade will
march roughly parallel to it, keeping close touch with the remainder of
1st Cavalry Division to the south.
4. If a break in enemy's resistance occurs, the remainder of the 1st
Cavalry Division may be employed in support of 1st Cavalry Brigade.
5. Command of 1st Cavalry Brigade will pass from Australian Corps to
the 1st Cavalry Division when the Infantry reaches the red line unless
the brigade is required in the area south of the Australian Corps to
exploit success gained before that hour. This will be determined by
G.O.C., 1st Cavalry Division, who will inform Australian Corps and 5th
Australian Division, and issue orders direct to 1st Cavalry Brigade.
BATTLE INSTRUCTIONS NO. 21
NOTIFICATION OF DATE AND TIME OF BATTLE
1. Reference paragraph 1 of General Staff Memo. No. AC/42, dated 7th
instant, ZERO will be 4.20 a.m. 8th instant.
INDEX
Administrative Services, 12.
Aeroplanes first used to carry small arms ammunition, 59.
As noise camouflage, 105.
Air Force, 13, 171.
Albert, 30, 36, 79.
Allied Offensive, Aug. 8th:
Conference at Flexicourt, 73.
Outline of plan, 73-80.
Three phases, 84.
Disposition of brigades, 93-94.
Artillery calibration, 102.
Tanks, 104.
Armoured cars, 107.
Intelligence Service, 112.
Air Squadron, 113.
Day before battle, 119.
Zero hour, 4.20 a.m., 120.
Guns begin, 121.
First phase completed, 122.
"Outwards" telegrams, 123.
Enemy completely surprised, 125.
Third Corps failed to reach objective, 126.
Armoured cars, sensational report, 127.
Guns and booty captured, 129.
Ludendorff's comments, 130.
General meeting at Villers-Bretonneux, 132.
The King at Bertangles, 132.
American Army's first great attack, 206, 259.
First offensive battle, Hamel, 59.
Second Corps, 235.
To join Fourth British Army, 236, 243, 254.
1,200 taken prisoners, 262.
131st Regt., 136, 143.
27th Div., 275, 278.
30th Div., 275, 278.
33rd Div., 52.
Amiens, defence of, 26 _et seq._
Anzac, First and Second Corps, 7.
Corps, abolition of, 9.
Day, 3rd anniversary, 37.
Arcy Wood, 161, 163.
Armistice requested by enemy, 280.
Army Corps improvised, 2.
Constitution and scope, 3.
Artillery barrage, 228-229.
Classification of, 12.
Assevillers, 221, 247.
Aubigny, 31.
Australian Army Corps constituted, 9.
United, 10.
Australian Corps Headquarters, Bertangles, 35.
Australian Soldier's high _moral_, 288.
Adaptability, 291.
Instinct for "square deal," 292.
Australian Staff watchword, "Efficiency," 295.
Australia's five Divisions, 5.
Authie, 25.
Bapaume, 198.
Basseux, 24.
Battles on grand scale finished, 281.
Beaurevoir, 218, 258, 276.
Bell, Maj.-Gen. John, 52, 136.
Bellenglise, 219.
Captured, 260.
Bellicourt taken, 261.
Bellicourt Tunnel, 219, 237.
Bertangles, Australian Corps H.Q., 35, 52, 132.
Biaches, 198.
Bingham, Lt.-Col., 106.
Birdwood, Gen., 9, 36, 40, 132.
Birdwood, Gen. Sir William:
Commands First Anzac Corps, 7.
Appointed Commander Australian Imperial Force, 10.
Appointed Commander Fifth British Army, 10, 40, 209.
Blamey, Brig.-Gen., 296.
Bony captured, 267.
Bouchavesnes, 182.
Bourlon Wood, 259.
Braithwaite, Lieut.-Gen., 204, 221.
Brancourt, 259.
Bray, 137, 148, 155, 158, 195.
Brie, 196, 198.
Brigade reductions, 15.
British Fifth Army, 40, 219.
Brown, Corpl. W., captures officer and 11 men, 66.
Bryce, Lt.-Col., 106.
Bussy, 62.
Butler, Gen., Third Corps, 73, 136, 221.
Byng, Gen., 27, 134.
Calibration, 102.
Cambrai, 259.
Canadians, 73, 75, 76, 115, 122, 129, 133, 134, 136, 139, 140, 198, 259.
Canadian Troops, fixed constitution, 5.
Cannan, Brig.-Gen., 27.
Cappy, 137, 157, 166.
Captive Balloon Service, 14.
Carter, Lieut.-Col. E. J., 108.
Cavalry first employed, 201.
Cerisy, 136.
Cessation of hostilities, 281.
Chamier, 22.
Château-Thierry, 72.
End of German offensive, 72.
Chipilly, 126, 136, 137.
Chuignes, 152, 156.
Churchill, Mr. Winston, 209.
Clemenceau, M.:
Speech to troops after Hamel battle, 62.
After Aug. 8th, 132.
Cléry, 170-180.
Combles, 198.
Commanders and Staffs, 16-17.
Congreve, Gen., his first order, 26.
Contact aeroplanes, 171.
Cook, Sir Joseph, 55.
Corps Cavalry, 11.
Corps Commander's responsibilities, 4.
Corps Conferences, 150.
Corps Signal Troops, 11.
Corps Troops, 11.
Couin, 25.
Courage, Brig.-Gen., 50, 106, 222.
Couturelle, 24.
Cox, Maj.-Gen. Sir H. W., 9.
Crossing the Somme, plan for, 178.
Cummings, Brig.-Gen., 29.
Curlu, 170.
Currie, Gen., 73, 132, 140.
Dernancourt, 31, 33.
Difficulties of Army in retreat, 280.
Disorganized British retreat, 23.
Division, the fighting unit, 2.
Division I., 18, 34, 40, 43, 73, 117, 134, 139, 140, 146, 152, 166,
203, 205, 221, 232, 243, 281.
Last fight, 233.
Division II., 18, 34, 40, 43, 65, 67, 71, 86, 115, 122, 135, 139,
146, 165, 170, 184, 257, 266, 270, 275, 277, 279.
Last fight, 279.
Division III., 18, 20, 31, 37, 40, 53, 86, 115, 122, 126, 137, 142,
146, 155, 158, 165, 170, 184, 191, 200, 201, 205, 235, 253, 261,
263, 265, 268, 270.
Last fight, 270.
Division IV., 18, 24, 30, 33, 65, 89, 115, 117, 126, 137, 146, 164,
203, 205, 221, 232, 233, 243, 281.
Last fight, 233.
Division V., 18, 34, 65, 76, 89, 115, 134, 146, 165, 169, 184, 193,
235, 253, 261, 262, 267.
Last fight, 270.
Doullens, population prepare to evacuate, 23.
First move, 22-23.
Dummy Tanks, 223.
Efficient Army more potent than League of Nations, 298.
Elles, Gen., 44, 221.
End of German offensive, 72.
Enemy attack in the South, July 15th, 72.
Comments on our successes, 66-67.
Discover our movement South, 116.
Move from Russian to Western Front, 20.
"On the run," 168.
Propaganda, 160.
Reserves melting away, 42.
Reserves absorbed, 206.
Secure our "Recruiting
Cable," 159.
Withdraws in disorder, 170.
Engineers, Companies of, 12.
Estries, 258.
Eterpigny, 196.
Etinehem, 137.
Fairfax, Lieut.-Col. Ramsay-, 106.
Farewell Order to Third Division, 41.
Farewell Order, 282.
Feuillancourt, 185.
Feuillères, 137.
Fifth Army defensive unduly attenuated, 23.
Fifth British Army, 21.
First Australian Division, 5.
First British Army attack, Aug. 26th, 198.
First Order from 10th Corps, 25.
Flamicourt, 191.
Flanders' liquid mud, 18, 20.
Flexicourt Conference, 73.
Foch, Marshal, appointed Supreme Commander, 37; 142, 200.
Fontaine, 169.
Foott, Brig.-Gen., 196.
Forty-sixth Imperial Division, 260.
Foucaucourt, 169.
Fourth Army enlarged, 204.
British flank with French, 37.
Fourth and Fifth Australian Divisions, 6.
Framerville, 135.
Franvillers, 27, 33.
Fraser, Brig.-Gen., 173, 222.
French Army's different outlook, 71.
Frevent, 23.
"Fuse 106" as wire cutter, 257.
Garenne Wood, 157.
Gellibrand, Maj.-Gen., 268.
German attack, March 21st, 1918, 21.
Propaganda, 160.
Withdrawal general on all fronts, Sept. 4th, 205.
Germany's "Black Day," 130.
Crack regiments opposed to Australians, 183.
Surrender due to military defeat, 287.
Determining cause, breach of Hindenburg defences, 287.
Gillemont Farm, 251, 267.
Glasgow, Maj.-Gen., 158, 221.
Godley, Lieut.-Gen. Sir A., commands Second Anzac Corps,
7, 132, 136, 199, 204.
Gouy, 262.
Grimwade, Brig.-Gen., 30.
Haig, Brig.-Gen. Neil, 201.
Field Marshal, 54, 62, 132, 209, 250.
Hamel, proposed operation against, 44-48.
Battle of, planned, 51.
Zero fixed, 56.
Over in 93 minutes, 56.
Official commentary, 57.
Americans' first offensive battle, 59.
No gas shells used, 60.
Congratulatory messages, 61.
M. Clemenceau's speech, 62-3.
Dinner at Amiens to celebrate victory, 63-64.
End of British defensive, 64.
Hamel Wood, 33, 39, 44, 56.
Hangard, 34, 36.
Hargicourt, Zero hour, 5.20 a.m. Sept. 8th, 226.
Red line reached before 10 o'clock, 232.
Outpost line captured, 232.
Haut Allaines, 200.
Hautcloque, 23.
Hazebrouck, 35.
Headquarters of Army Corps, 11.
Hebuterne, 25.
Heilly, 28.
Hem, 170.
Herleville, 152.
Hill 90, 157.
Hill 104, 33, 36, 65.
Hindenburg Line, 199.
Purpose of, 214.
St. Quentin-Cambrai section, 215.
Germans' elaborate system of trenches, 217.
Hargicourt line, 218.
Capture of plans of German defence scheme, 219.
Plan for attacking, 221.
Machine gun barrage, 223.
Dummy tanks, 223.
Tapes for Infantry start line, 224.
Direction boards, 225.
Plan for further advance, 236-240.
America's Second Corps in battle front, 242.
Australian and American Divisions, 254.
Mustard gas first used, 256.
Destroying wire entanglements, 256.
Disposition of Divisions, 258.
Two phases, 258.
Zero hour, 5.50 a.m. Sept. 29th, 259.
Fifth Australians hung up, 261.
Americans held up, 261.
Forget to mop up, 262.
Change of plan, 264.
Enemy relinquish tunnel defences, 268.
Collapse of the whole defences, 279.
Hobbs, Maj.-Gen., 108, 169, 193.
Hughes, W. M., 55.
Message from, 61, 281.
Hunn, Maj. A. S., 210.
Infantry advance behind barrage, 229.
Infantry Brigade reductions, 15.
"Instantaneous" fuse, 257.
Joncourt, 258, 267.
July 18th, French and American counter-stroke, 72.
Kavanagh, Gen., Cavalry Corps, 73, 132.
King, the, at Bertangles, 132.
Knob, the, 267.
Knoll, the, 267.
Labour Corps, 12.
La Flaque, 129.
La Neuville, 155.
Last Australian battle in Great War, 279.
La Verguier, 232.
League of Nations less potent than efficient Army, 298.
"Leap Frog" tactics, 81.
Le Cateau, 281.
Le Catelet, 218, 261.
Leslie, Brig.-Gen. W. B., 9.
Lewis, Maj.-Gen., 246.
Lewis Gun detachments, 91.
"Liaison Force," 143.
Lihons, 135.
Losses, comparison of, 289.
Ludendorff's comments on Aug. 8th attack, 130.
Lyon, Lt.-Col., 106.
Maclagan, Maj.-Gen., 24, 26, 30, 52, 136, 221, 243, 247.
McNicoll, Brig.-Gen., 24, 28.
March 22nd, 1918, first move, 21.
Marett Wood, 29.
Martin, Brig.-Gen., 185.
Marwitz, Gen. von der, 281.
Maurepas, 198.
Max (Prince) of Baden, 280.
Mechanical Transport, 11.
Méricourt, 133, 139.
Mills's grenades, 248.
Minor battles begun, 37.
Result, 38-39.
Monash, Lieut.-Gen., Sir John:
In command First Australian Div., 5.
Third Australian Div., 6.
Australian Army Corps, 10.
17th Imperial Div., 16.
32nd Imperial Div., 16.
27th American Div., 16.
30th American Div., 16.
Without orders, 23.
Honoured by the King, 132.
Hands over command to General Read, 279.
Mondicourt, 24.
Monster German Naval 15-inch gun captured, 161.
Montbrehain, 278.
Last Australian battle, 279.
Montgomery, 132.
Mont St. Martin, 275.
Mont St. Quentin, 177, 182.
Second Prussian Guards defend, 183.
Captured, 184, 193.
Monument Wood, 67.
Mopping up, 229, 248.
Result of neglecting, 252, 262.
Morain, M., entertains British and French Army officers after Hamel,
64.
_Moral v._ material, 279.
Motor Ambulance Corps, 12.
Mound, the, 78.
Mullens, Maj.-Gen., letter of appreciation, 31.
Mustard gas, 78, 255.
Nauroy, 218, 263, 267.
Nielles-lez-Blequin, 20.
Noise camouflage, 105.
Nollet, Gen., 164.
Noyons, 198.
Officers and men, relations between, 293.
Ommiécourt, 137.
O'Ryan Maj.-Gen., 246.
Partington, Major, 106.
Pas, 25.
Péronne, 148, 182.
Enemy defence of, 183.
Taken, 191.
Poulainville, 129.
Prince Max of Baden, 280.
Prisoners, treatment of, 210.
Excuses for surrender, 213.
Cages, 209.
"Pigeons" employed to gain information, 211.
Proyart, 139.
Prussian Guards hold Mont St. Quentin, 183.
Quennemont Farm, 251, 263.
Ramicourt, 277.
Ramsay-Fairfax, Lieut.-Col., 106.
Rawlinson, Gen. Lord, 35-44, 52, 72, 73, 96, 132, 166, 181,
192, 221, 235, 236, 241, 250, 274, 278.
Read, Maj.-Gen. G. W., 243, 278, 279.
Reorganization of Brigades, 272-3.
Repatriation of Australian Forces, 282.
Results, analysis of, 284 _et seq._
Rheims, 259.
Robertson, Maj. P. R., 142.
Roisel, 204.
Rosenthal, Brig.-Gen., 24, 43, 67, 169, 192, 278.
Rosières, 129.
Roye, 133, 141, 198.
Sailly-Laurette, 29.
Sailly-le-Sec, 31.
Second Australian Division, 5.
"Set-piece" operations, 226.
"Siegfried Line," 214.
Skene, Brig.-Gen. P. G. M., 9.
Smoke shells, 169.
Smyth, Sir N. M., V.C., 9.
Soissons, German withdrawal, 78.
Somme Canal, 174.
Line of, 148.
Enemy retreat, 182.
Somme, North, 34.
Plan for crossing, 178.
South, 34.
St. Christ, 198.
St. Denis, 190.
St. Gratien, 33.
St. Mihiel Salient attack, Sept. 11th, 206.
St. Quentin Canal, 216, 232.
Tanks, 14, 44, 48, 49, 91, 104, 276.
Improved type, 48.
Dummy, 223.
"Star," 91.
Teamwork, 150.
Third Australian Division, 6.
Third British Army attack Aug. 21st, 154, 198, 221.
Time-table for successive Army engagements impossible, 153.
Tivoli Wood, 170.
Toulorge, Gen., 42.
Treux Wood, 29.
Tunnellers, 12.
Underground shelters, galleries and dug-outs, German, 249.
Vaire Wood, 39, 56.
Vaux, 49.
Vauxvillers, 133, 135.
Verdun, 259.
Vermandovillers, 169.
Villers-Bretonneux, 33, 36, 37, 64, 67, 78.
Visitors to Corps, 208.
Lord Milner, 209.
Mr. Winston Churchill, 209.
Wackett, Capt., Australian Flying Corps, 60.
Walker, Maj.-Gen. Sir H. B., 9.
Warneton, early 1918, 18.
Whippet tanks, 276.
Wiancourt, 277.
Wilson, Sir Henry, 132.
Wisdom, Brig.-Gen., 143.
Ypres, 260.
Zero hour, Aug. 8th, 120.
Hamel, 56.
Hargicourt, 226.
Hindenburg Line, 259.
_Printed at The Chapel River Press, Kingston, Surrey._
* * * * * *
Transcriber's note:
Obvious errors of punctuation and diacritical markings were corrected.
Inconsistent hyphenation was made consistent.
P. 123: No correction made to "Sent at 2.5 p.m."