THIRD BATTLE OF YPRES.
July 31st, 1917.
[Sidenote: _May, 1917_]
From April 23rd to May 6th we remained in Moulle under perfect
conditions. The time was given over principally to practising the
attack and consolidation of trenches. Training began early in the
mornings and the afternoons were devoted to relaxation. The downs west
of St. Omer formed ideal country for the re-conditioning of troops from
the Salient, while by way of relaxation inter-Company league football
matches were played. These were keenly contested and aroused close
interest. St. Omer, too, lay within easy reach and a visit amply repaid
the tedium of the brief journey. It was a sort of half-way house to
Calais, and its amenities could not be excelled in another town of
equal size. Its parks, even in wartime, were beautifully laid out and
kept in irreproachable condition. The _beau monde_ of St. Omer
loved to dawdle in the gardens during these fine spring evenings, and
an attractive wartime gaiety pervaded the whole town. Troops of various
nationalities strolled about the boulevards or sat sipping coffee in
the restaurants. Blue and khaki uniforms intermixed in the streets
everywhere. Cadets wearing green bands were to be encountered at every
corner. Flying Corps officers seemed to monopolise the club in the
Grand Place. About the easy manners of the _boulevardier_ there
was an inexplicable charm, which, try as we might, we could never hope
to imitate.
These pleasant days came to an end all too quickly, and on May 6th the
Battalion began its return journey, marching to Buysscheure, where it
went into billets for the night. The march was resumed the following
morning to Arneke, where we entrained for Poperinghe and thence by
march to “A” Camp, near Vlamertinghe, once more. Camp was shelled by
long-range guns, causing some casualties.
[Sidenote: _May–June, 1917_]
On the evening of the 8th the Battalion relieved the 4th South
Lancashire Regiment in the right sub-sector of the Potijze Sector,
and started work immediately on the trenches and patrolling. During
the night of the 11th the battalions on our left and right made raids
on the enemy line, and we suffered a few casualties in consequence.
During the night of the 13th our patrol of two officers and three other
ranks encountered a strong enemy patrol of fifteen to twenty men and
dispersed them. Life hereabouts alternated between the trenches in the
Potijze Sector and billets in Ypres, and was of a more or less routine
character. The Battalion played no part, save that of spectators, in
the Second Army’s capture of the Messines Ridge on June 7th. But before
that operation lavish use of scaling ladders and shrapnel helmets was
made in our trenches in order to deceive the enemy as to the front from
which the expected attack would be delivered. At 3.10 a.m. on June 7th
the Battalion saw to the south-east of Ypres nineteen gigantic poppies
rise out of the darkness, the firing of the mines upon which the
tunnelling companies had been occupied for two years; and even to-day
the sight remains imprinted upon the visual memory.
On the evening of June 9th a smart little raid was carried out to
ascertain if the Messines operations had resulted in any transfer of
enemy troops from other areas. A party of thirty other ranks of the
Battalion, under Second-Lieut. J. C. Alexander, entered the German
lines at Ibex Trench, capturing six Germans and killing three others,
with no casualties amongst our men. This was a most successful
operation. Second-Lieut. J. Alexander was awarded the Military Cross
for his leadership, while Lance-Corporal C. F. Cooper and Private J.
McAlarney each received the Military Medal for bravery displayed during
the raid.
On the morning of the 11th the Battalion marched to Poperinghe,
entrained for Esquelbecq, and thence by route march to billets
at Bollezeele for training. On the 13th, after cleaning up and
bathing parades, Companies were inspected by the Commanding Officer,
Lieut.-Colonel G. B. Balfour. On the 16th we moved by road to billets
and bivouacs at Grand Difques (Headquarters and “B” Company) and Petite
Difques (“A,” “C” and “D” Companies), and Battalion training was resumed
in the familiar downlands west of St. Omer. The training was of a
more advanced nature than in April, and included Brigade field-days
with preparation for offensive warfare on a large scale. Training was
generally completed by the early afternoon, so that many hours of
sunshine remained to be enjoyed each day.
[Sidenote: _July, 1917_]
On June 30th Companies were inspected, and the transport moved by road
to Wallon Cappel _en route_ for the line once more, while on July
1st the Battalion marched to Lumbres and entrained for Brandhoek,
relieving the 4th Liverpools at Derby Camp. On our return to the
forward area we found great activity everywhere: formation of dumps,
preparation of gun positions, construction of tracks leading towards
Ypres through the country between Vlamertinghe and Brielen.
On the 2nd we relieved the 6th Liverpools in the Wieltje right
sub-sector of the line, and commenced work on trenches, sand-bagging
and repairing wire. The usual patrols were sent out nightly. There was
increasing activity and unrest on both sides, and we received a heavy
bombardment on the 3rd when the Brigade on our left carried out a raid.
On the 7th the Brigade on our right carried out a successful raid on
the enemy trenches, and he retaliated with a gas-shell bombardment. On
July 9th we were relieved by the 4th Loyals and proceeded to billets at
Derby Camp.
Nominally in billets, but truly in name only. July 9th to 19th--a
period of intense strain. Companies lived in dugouts and strong points
between Derby Camp and Ypres. About 7 p.m. “A” Company (Captain R.
Gardner, M.C.), like all the others, used to parade for a night’s work
in the trench area east of Ypres--mostly carrying up materials and
munitions from dumps at Potijze and St. Jean to selected positions
for new dumps in the front line system--very trying, as Ypres and the
forward area were shelled with gas the whole time and the parties had
to work for long periods in box respirators. In the end the allotted
tasks were all carried out, with heavyish casualties from shell fire
and mustard-gas poisoning; mustard gas began to be very bad from
that point onwards. On getting through the gas area to the west of
Ypres again the working parties not infrequently received salvoes
of machine gun fire from hostile aeroplanes a mile or so from their
dugouts. Breakfast on return (5 to 6 a.m.): sleep 6 a.m.--dinner (12
to 1 p.m.): afternoon spent in administration and “paper” warfare
with higher authority; then back again to Ypres about 7 p.m. Ypres a
grim sight: a mass of flames from burning dumps. Every evening until
the 19th the Battalion paraded as strong as possible for work in the
forward area. Intense activity was apparent everywhere, and there
were visible signs that operations on a large scale were in early
contemplation.
The objective of the Flanders offensive was the freeing of the
north-west of Belgium. The attack was delayed, partly owing to the
vastness of the preparations to be made on ground largely overlooked by
the enemy, partly to the policy of associating the hard-hit French with
the work of freeing part of Belgium. Three armies were to be employed
in the attack--the Second and Fifth British Armies and the First French
Army. Refitting and organization proceeded apace, and on the morning of
the 23rd Brigadier-General Stockwell addressed all Officers and N.C.O’s
regarding the forthcoming operations. On the 26th Companies were
inspected and addressed by the Commanding Officer, Lieut.-Colonel G.
B. Balfour, and on the evening of the 29th the Battalion, in fighting
order with packs, proceeded to the concentration area.
We concentrated, under cover, in an assembly area just south of
Vlamertinghe and were ordered to get as much rest as we could during
the 30th. Some no doubt, slept as ordered, and others, like Julius
Cæsar’s troops before the battle with Ariovistus and his Germans in 58
B.C., began to think of making their wills.
In the early evening of the 30th the Battalion moved up by companies
through the ruins and fires of Ypres towards Potijze and assembled in
Congreve Walk, between Potijze Road and Lone Street, to wait for zero
hour on the 31st. Major P. E. Robathan was in command, Colonel Balfour,
with other Officers, N.C.O.’s and men forming B. Echelon at the
Transport. We had a long wait through the night while the first stage
of the attack was carried out by the 165th and 166th Infantry Brigades.
At 3.30 a.m. on July 31st, under a barrage of more intense power than
any previously recorded in the war, nine Divisions of the Fifth Army
“went over the top,” while attacks in co-operation were carried out on
the right by the Second Army and on the left by the French.
By 9 a.m., after severe fighting, the assaulting battalions of the
165th and 166th Infantry Brigades had captured their objectives,
known as the Blue Line and the Black Line, on the north side of the
Ypres-Roulers railway, penetrating about one to one and a half miles
from Wieltje into the German system. To the 164th Infantry Brigade fell
the second stage of the attack, to pass through the 165th and 166th
Infantry Brigades and capture the enemy’s third line system, the Green
Line or Gheluvelt-Langemarch Line, about one mile beyond the Black Line.
At 8.20 a.m. the 164th Infantry Brigade began its advance on a
two-battalion frontage. The right front was formed by the 1/4th North
Lancashire Regiment with the Battalion in support, and touch was to be
kept on the right with battalions of the 45th Brigade (15th Division);
the left front was formed by the 2/5th Lancashire Fusiliers supported
by the 1/8th Liverpool (Irish). The slow advance from Congreve Walk
towards the Black Line was carried out in its early stages according
to schedule, and, in spite of a heavy retaliatory barrage, without
serious loss. But before the Black Line was reached it was found that
the enemy still held some of his concrete “pill-boxes” (the term
“farms” being a courtesy title) and fighting became very severe, the
support battalions becoming involved.
But the advance from the Black Line to the Green Line was the
Battalion’s real task. Wonderful as the barrage had been at the outset
it lost a little in intensity as the ranges lengthened and as time
progressed. The Green Line was reached by all units of the Brigade and
was held for about three hours. Among many who fought with gallantry
and devotion Lance-Sergeant T. F. Mayson behaved with a distinction
which won him the Victoria Cross. Single-handed he put out of action
two machine guns and their crews and during the enemy counter-attack
later in the day held up the advance at an isolated post by Lewis Gun
fire.
It was not possible to occupy the Green Line permanently (it was many
weeks before British troops again trod ground east of the Kansas
Cross roads). Although touch had been established on the Green Line
with the 15th Division on the right, the 39th Division on the left
had encountered such serious difficulties that, although their right
battalion gained touch with the Lancashire Fusiliers on the Green Line,
a defensive flank had to be formed.
[Sidenote: _August, 1917_]
Moreover, in the early evening the enemy delivered a most determined
counter-attack against the Green Line, and the Battalion, contesting,
like the other units, every inch of ground, was compelled to withdraw
to the Black Line, which it held against counter-attack, and at 1.30
a.m. on August 1st received orders to withdraw to the old British front
line. Battalion Headquarters moved from Pommern Redoubt, and about
5 a.m. reached the mined dugout in Oxford Trench, where they joined
Lieut.-Colonel Hindle, D.S.O., of the 4th Loyals, and his battalion
headquarters.
The remnants of the Battalion and those of the 4th Loyals, manned the
old front line from the top of New John Street to Warwick Farm. It was
not until mid-day that all the survivors were collected--about 150 in
all. Lieut. C. E. Withey took command of the front line, having under
him Second-Lieuts. Lauder, Newbold, Gribble, Latham and Ellwood, and
Second-Lieut. Lonsdale, of the 4th Loyals. Information was received
that the enemy had driven back our advanced posts upon the Frezenberg
Line and was preparing to assault that line. Preparations were
accordingly made to hold the old front line as strongly as possible and
a defence was quickly organised.
Heavy rain had rendered the old trench almost untenable, and the task
of reforming trench duties and taking round the rations was extremely
difficult. Towards midnight fifty stragglers were brought up from
Transport lines, under Second-Lieut. Lingford, to reinforce the
garrison. No casualties were sustained in the fire trench, although
it was intermittently shelled. On August 2nd information was received
that the Brigade was to be relieved by the 108th Brigade. The relieving
troops arrived at 1.30 p.m., and relief was reported complete by 2.30.
The situation was quiet during the morning, and no further casualties
were sustained.
Upon relief by the 9th Royal Irish Rifles, Companies moved off
independently, and by 5 p.m. had all reached the old concentration area
at Vlamertinghe. Battalion Headquarters boarded a motor lorry outside
St. Jean and had not proceeded very far when a heavy shell exploded
just behind. Three were seriously wounded (two of whom afterwards
died) and two slightly wounded. Colonel Hindle, of the 4th Loyals,
Major Robathan, and the other occupants of the wagon had very narrow
escapes. On reaching the concentration area everyone received a welcome
rum ration--an indulgence which in a few instances produced curious
effects! Food was ready and also baths and clean clothes. Colonel
Balfour and the Officers and N.C.O.’s of the “B” List were assiduous
in their attentions to the survivors. They had had information of
the progress of the battle from wounded Officers passing through the
Clearing Station at Vlamertinghe Mill. At 8.45 the Battalion left
the concentration area and proceeded by buses--in a long convoy with
the other units of the Brigade--to the Watou No. 3 Area, _via_
Brandhoek and Poperinghe.
Camp outside Watou was reached about 1 a.m. on the 3rd, rations and
transport arriving a little later. Heavy rain had fallen and the
camp was a quagmire, but the exhausted troops threw themselves down
thankfully and were soon oblivious to their discomforts. Little else,
except sleep, was done during the day, but stock was taken of the
situation and casualties were estimated. The Battalion sustained the
following Officer casualties:--
Capt. W. R. Pattinson Wounded.
Capt. H. A. Brocklebank Wounded and missing.
Second-Lieut. G. W. Ford Killed.
Second-Lieut. J. A. McGill Wounded.
Second-Lieut. H. J. Warbrick Wounded.
Second-Lieut. J. C. Alexander, M.C. Wounded.
Second-Lieut. F. C. Gilling Wounded.
Lieut. S. F. Walker Wounded.
Second-Lieut. J. D. Johnstone Killed.
Second-Lieut. R. Bradley Killed.
Second-Lieut. J. R. Gaulter Wounded.
Second-Lieut. T. H. Middleton Wounded.
Second-Lieut. P. C. Taylor Wounded.
Other ranks: 21 killed, 145 wounded and 46 missing. The Battalion
captured four machine guns and its fair share of the 500 prisoners
captured by the Division. The casualties of the Battalion were not so
serious as those of other units in the Brigade. This grievous toll
was the price paid for an operation in which the Battalion again
vindicated its reputation for valour and devotion to duty. That this
view was shared by the higher authorities is shown by the following
communications, which it is fitting should be given here in full:--
55TH (WEST LANCASHIRE) DIVISION.
SPECIAL ORDER OF THE DAY.
_3rd August, 1917._
_To all Ranks of the 55th (West Lancashire) Division._
Before you went into action on the 31st July, I told you how
confident I was that the Division would do its duty, and
maintain its reputation, and the reputations of the grand
Regiments to which you belong.
You have done more than that.
The attack you made on the 31st is worthy to rank with the great
deeds of the British Army in the past, and has added fresh glory
to the record of that Army.
The courage, determination, and self-sacrifice shown by
Officers, Warrant Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and men is
beyond praise. It is a fine exhibition of true discipline, which
comes from the mutual confidence of all ranks in themselves,
their comrades, their leaders and those under them. This in its
turn is the product of hard training. Your doings on the 31st
show how well you have turned this training to account.
You have captured every inch of the objectives allotted to you.
It was not your fault that you could not hold all you took.
You have broken and now hold in spite of weather and counter
attacks, a line that the enemy has strengthened and consolidated
at his leisure for more than two years.
This will, I believe, be the beginning of the end. When
your turn comes to go forward again you will know your own
strength--and the enemy will know it too.
I am proud of what you have done, and am confident that with
such troops ultimate victory is certain.
(Signed) H. S. JEUDWINE,
_Major-General_,
_Commanding 55th (West Lancashire) Division_.
FIFTH ARMY,
G.A. 790/7.
_3rd August, 1917._
XIX CORPS.
The Army Commander wishes to convey his thanks and
congratulations to the G.O.C. and all Ranks of the 164th Brigade
on their fine performance on July 31st. They carried out their
task in a most gallant manner, and fought splendidly to retain
their hold on the ground won.
All Officers showed energy, courage and initiative in dealing
with the situation, and the men under their command, in spite of
heavy losses, did their utmost by carrying out their orders, to
ensure our success and the enemy’s defeat.
Great credit and praise is due to the G.O.C., 164th Brigade, for
the magnificent behaviour of the troops under his command.
(Signed) N. MALCOLM,
_Major-General, G.S._
2.
164TH INFANTRY BRIGADE,
No. G. 280.
1/4TH ROYAL LANCS. REGT.
The Brigadier-General Commanding has much pleasure in forwarding
the above remarks of the Army Commander, and directs that these
be communicated to all ranks.
He considers that all credit and praise is due to the Officers
and men of the Brigade.
(Signed) G. SURTEES, _2nd Lieut._,
_for Captain_,
_Acting Brigade Major, 164th Infantry Brigade_.
_6th August, 1917._
The process of “cleaning up” and re-equipment was begun. All Companies
attended baths. Narratives were written by Company Commanders,
Platoon Commanders and Section Leaders. From these a Battalion Report
was compiled by Major Robathan and submitted to Brigade. Rain fell
persistently throughout the day but the evening was fine. At 2.30 a.m.
on the 5th August orders were received from Brigade for a move to an
area on the Lines of Communication, and at 7.30 a.m. the Battalion
left camp and proceeded to Abeele Station, where it halted for an
hour until the time for entrainment arrived. This was completed
by 11 a.m., and travelling via the Hazebrouck switch line and St.
Omer the Battalion detrained at Audruicq, and was conveyed in motor
lorries down the valley of the Hem, via Nordausques and Tournehem, to
Bonningues-les-Ardres. Here excellent and commodious billets had been
arranged for both Officers and men. The village had not been occupied
by troops for some time, and the inhabitants gave the Battalion a
splendid welcome. The well-wooded valley and surrounding moors were
a delightful change from the flats of Flanders. With us in the same
village were billeted the 8th Liverpools, while Brigade Headquarters
were at Tournehem.
Reorganization of Companies was commenced. “A” Company under Lieut.
Withey, “B” Company under 2nd Lieut. Evans, “C” Company under Capt.
Procter, and “D” Company under 2nd Lieut. R. M. Senton. Reinforcements
were arriving and were posted to the different Companies. On parade
the Commanding Officer addressed the Battalion, expressing his pride
in what they had done. A long and pleasant period ensued in these
delighful surroundings, the time being devoted to training in the
morning and to recreation in the afternoon and evening. A Sports’
Committee was formed and the utmost keenness was displayed in the
various competitions. A Battalion Sports and Gymkhana was held on
the afternoon of the 16th August, from 2 to 9 p.m. This was favoured
by splendid weather, and there was a large gathering of interested
spectators. There was a keen struggle for the Inter-Company Cup offered
for competition by the Commanding Officer, this being eventually won on
the following day, when the sports were continued, by the Transport.
These wound up in the evening with a Battalion Concert, organized by
2nd Lieut. Mudie, a gifted entertainer, who himself contributed his
little masterpiece “Three Hundred and Sixty-five Days.” A delightful
addition to these light-hearted proceedings took place when orders
were received from Brigade for forty-eight hours’ leave to be granted
to Officers to visit the coast of France, and twenty-four hours’ leave
to other Ranks to visit Calais. In the Brigade Sports, Battalion
representatives were uniformly successful, the Tug-of-War, 2 Miles, 1
Mile, and Association Football falling to us.
Reinforcements continued to arrive, amongst them being Second-Lieuts.
E. D. Howard, Veevers, White, E. Haslam, N. Whittaker, T. H. Pritchard,
and R. G. Hatcher.
Training went on apace, and distinction was conferred on the Battalion
when a Platoon, under 2nd Lieut. Ellwood, was selected to give a
demonstration attack upon a strong point. Officers and N.C.O.’s from
Divisions in the Fifth Army attended this demonstration, which went
on for some days, and on 19th August, Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig
visited the Division and saw the Battalion at work in field operations.
[Sidenote: _September, 1917_]
During our stay at Bonningues-les-Ardres, Lieut.-Col. G. B. Balfour
was invalided from the Battalion with scarlet fever, and command was
taken by Major P. E. Robathan. Captain and Adjutant J. Way returned to
England for a period of home service, and was succeeded as Adjutant by
Capt. R. Gardner. On the 6th September we marched to Moulle, of old
acquaintance, and fired field practices by Companies, but preparation
soon began for a return to the Ypres Salient. During the Division’s
period of absence from the line, several attempts by other Divisions
had been made to advance from the Black Line, but without marked
success. On the 10th the Battalion, together with the remainder of the
Brigade, took part in Divisional operations on ground representing the
area the Division will operate on in the forthcoming attack.
On the 14th the Battalion moved by road to Audruicq, and there
entrained for Ypres, where we were billeted in tent and bivouacs
near Goldfish Chateau. On the following day a hostile squadron of
aeroplanes dropped three bombs on the camp, killing one and wounding
three others of other regiments. Capt. Wilson, our Medical Officer, was
also slightly wounded, but remained on duty. Next morning the camp was
again bombed by enemy aircraft, this time killing three and wounding
five other ranks of the Battalion. Bombs dropped a few yards from the
tent used as the Battalion Orderly Room, the Battalion Runners and
Headquarters details were the sufferers. Later in the day Second-Lieut.
Whittaker was wounded in the arm by an anti-aircraft machine gun bullet.
On the 17th the Battalion was finally organized and, after the news of
Sergt. Mayson’s V.C. had come through, in the evening marched through
St. Jean and Wieltje to the Concentration Area, “B” and “D” Companies
Headquarters in Call Reserve (old German Reserve trench), and “C” and
“A” in the old British front line. We incurred casualties in 3 killed
and 4 wounded. The following day Officers and N.C.O.’s reconnoitred
the front line and position of attack, and “D” Company relieved the
10th Liverpool Scottish in the front shell-hole system, the Battalion
suffering 3 killed and 7 wounded in these operations. On the 19th
September we were fitted out with stores and extra rations, and moved
to positions of attack in shell holes between Somme and Hinducott, with
Headquarters at Capricorn Keep.
Major P. E. Robathan commanded the Battalion, with Captain J. H.
Evans as Second-in-command. The 164th Infantry Brigade attacked on
a two-battalion frontage, 1/4th Royal Lancashire Regiment on the
right, 2/5th Lancashire Fusiliers on the left. 1/4th North Lancashire
Regiment acted as support to the Battalion, and 1/5th Royal Lancashire
Regiment, from 166th Infantry Brigade, was a reserve Battalion placed
under the command of the Brigadier-General Commanding, 164th Infantry
Brigade. The Battalion had orders to reach an intermediate objective,
the dotted Red Line; 1/4th North Lancashire Regiment, after supporting
the Battalion at the outset, was to pass through it and advance to the
Green Line. The attack was on a vast scale, eleven Divisions being
employed.
During the night of the 19th–20th September platoons took up their
positions in shell holes west of the line Somme--Hinducott amidst a
severe bombardment, which had been going on for some days. At zero
hour (5.40 a.m. on the 20th September) the first wave advanced on the
enemy positions between Hinducott and Somme, and reached its first
objective in spite of stubborn opposition, especially from Aisne Farm
and Loos. Here, after a slight pause in the barrage, “A” and “C”
Companies continued to advance, but sustained heavy casualties from
enfilade fire. Owing to appalling mud, and determined opposition from
the garrisons of “pill-boxes,” the advance was slow, and the support
Battalion, 1/4th North Lancashire Regiment, soon became involved in the
fighting. The Battalion reached the dotted Red Line, but the support
Battalion was not sufficiently strong to continue the advance, and
eventually both Battalions held a line from Schuler Galleries to Loos,
under heavy bombardment and enfilade fire from both flanks. Capt. A.
P. Procter, commanding “C” Company, was placed in command of the front
line, which was manned by both Battalions and reinforcements from the
reserve Battalion, 1/5th Royal Lancashire Regiment.
Patrols were sent out during the night to ascertain the enemy’s
positions, and forward posts pushed ahead. During the morning of the
21st, small parties of the enemy were observed coming down the forward
slopes in front of Gravenstafel carrying Red Cross flags. At 4.50 p.m.
the 8th Liverpool (Irish) occupied Schuler Farm and pushed forward to
the Green Line, at the same time the 5th Lancashire Fusiliers moved
forward from Schuler Galleries towards Cross Cotts. In the evening
the enemy intensely bombarded our front line, but no counter-attack
was made. During the night posts were pushed forward to prepare for
a further advance next night. At dawn on the 22nd, the enemy heavily
shelled our front line, and a small party was seen advancing towards
us. Our artillery and machine guns replied, and the hostile bombardment
ceased. During the morning our front line was again heavily shelled
by the enemy, and also again in the evening, but no attack was made
against us. Just before dawn on the 23rd, our front line was intensely
bombarded, our machine guns replying, and the bombardment died down.
On the afternoon of the 23rd, preparations were made for the relief
of the 39th Division. Guides had assembled at Battalion Headquarters,
Capricorn Keep, and were about to lead to their positions the guides
of the incoming unit, when, at 5.15 p.m., the whole of the Battalion
area was subjected to a violent bombardment, which lasted till 8 p.m.
Practically no casualties were sustained. What it must have been like
for the Companies out in the open can only be imagined, but in the
Battalion Headquarters’ dugout, with entrance conveniently facing the
enemy, the occupants waited, with what philosophy they could, for a
shell to intrude and sever their connection with the Third Battle of
Ypres. But none came. After some excitement concerning the whereabouts
of a platoon, the Battalion was relieved at 1.45 a.m. on September
24th by two platoons of the 2/6th North Staffordshire Regiment. The
survivors tramped through Wieltje to St. Jean for the last time, and
said farewell to Ypres. From Vlamertinghe we went by train and bus to
Watou.
During these operations the Battalion sustained the following
casualties:--
Captain C. E. Withey and Second-Lieut. E. T. White killed.
Second-Lieuts. G. C. Lingford (died of wounds), G. A. Taylor, T. H.
Pritchard, C. H. Newbold, R. M. Senton, and J. Thompson, wounded, and
R. G. Hatcher, died of wounds. Second-Lieut. C. G. Howard missing.
Other Ranks: Killed, 37; Wounded, 155; Wounded and Missing, 1; Shell
Shock, 6; Missing, 24. Total, all ranks, 233. At a later date the
Officer temporarily in Command, Major P. E. Robathan, also went to
hospital suffering from the effects of gas.
The conspicuous value and success of these strenuous operations is
amply testified by the following communications received from the
higher authorities:--
55TH (WEST LANCASHIRE) DIVISION.
ORDER OF THE DAY.
1. The following telegrams have been received:--
“Fifth Army wire begins. The Army Commander wishes to thank
all arms and all ranks for their splendid efforts in to-day’s
battle. Co-operation between Infantry, Artillery and Flying
Corps has been excellent, and very important successes have been
gained all along the front. Ends.”
“Corps Commander thanks Field and Heavy Artillery for their good
work, and the Forward Observation Officers for the very useful
and timely information sent in. Ends.”
“Corps Commander congratulates 9th and 55th Divisions and thanks
them for their success to-day. Ends.”
2. The Major-General Commanding wishes to add his thanks and
congratulations to all arms and ranks of the Division.
There is no doubt whatever that in addition to making a very
substantial advance over difficult ground, stubbornly defended,
well organized, and liberally provided with strong cover,
artillery and machine guns, the Division, aided most ably by the
Corps Heavy Artillery, succeeded in dealing the enemy a very
heavy blow, and causing him severe losses.
Success was due to the fine determination shown by all ranks
and the hearty co-operation of Artillery, Engineers, Infantry,
Machine Gun Companies, Trench Mortars and the R.A.M.C. with each
other, which is the sign of a united and disciplined Division.
(Signed) T. ROSE PRICE,
_Lieut.-Colonel_,
_General Staff, 55th Division_.
_21st September,_ 1917.
55TH (WEST LANCASHIRE) DIVISION.
ORDER OF THE DAY.
The following telegrams from the V Corps have been received:--
“The Commander-in-Chief visited Corps Headquarters this evening
and expressed himself very pleased in the work of both Divisions
and sends them his congratulations and thanks.”
“Fifth Army wire begins. Please congratulate 55th Division on
the gallant defence of Hill 37 yesterday, and upon the energy
and resource displayed by Commanders on the spot in organizing
counter-attacks. Ends.”
(Signed) T. ROSE PRICE,
_Lieut.-Colonel_,
_General Staff, 55th Division._
_23rd September, 1917._
55TH (WEST LANCASHIRE) DIVISION.
ORDER OF THE DAY.
The following telegram has been received from the Right Honourable E.
G. V. Earl of Derby, K.G., G.C.V.O., C.B., Secretary of State for War:--
“General Jeudwine, 55th Division Headquarters, B.E.F.
“Well done 55th West Lancashire Division. Accept my most hearty
congratulations. I sincerely trust your losses are not heavy.
Derby.”
(Signed) T. ROSE PRICE,
_Lieut.-Colonel_,
_General Staff, 55th Division._
_24th September, 1917._
55TH (WEST LANCASHIRE) DIVISION.
ORDER OF THE DAY.
The following telegram has been received from Fifth Army:--
“55TH DIVISION.
“Please convey to all ranks 55th Division the Army Commander’s
congratulations on the fine record of the Division during the
hard fighting of the past two months. The Army Commander wishes
specially to thank all ranks for their splendid efforts, which
have contributed greatly to the success of the last attack,
and to wish them all good luck and success in the future.
Despite their long period in the line prior to commencement of
operations they have well maintained and increased their high
reputation.
“FIFTH ARMY.”
The following telegram has been received from the West Lancashire
Reserve Brigade:--
“G.O.C. 55TH DIVISION, FRANCE.
“Brigadier-General Stuart and all ranks West Lancashire Reserve
Brigade send heartiest congratulations to West Lancashire
Division on their splendid success.”
(Signed) T. ROSE PRICE,
_Lieut.-Colonel_,
_General Staff, 55th Division._
_27th September, 1917._
While it is true that virtue is its own reward, and kindles a pure
unquenchable flame in men’s hearts, it would be idle to deny that
these cordial messages of appreciation of their sacrifices cheered
the Battalion profoundly and steeled their determination for further
efforts in the stern task yet to be accomplished.
On the 25th we spent a day cleaning up and resting. At 1 p.m. Major
Robathan addressed all Officers and other ranks who had been in battle.
Reinforcements as follows were received during the day: Second-Lieuts.
L. R. Keighley, J. R. Rundle, H. Walkden, A. J. Thorpe, F. J. Shuker,
R. L. Purnell, B. H. Gough, and 18 other Ranks. At 9.30 p.m. we moved
by march route to Hopoutre Station and entrained for Bapaume West, in
the Lens area. We arrived here at 12.30 p.m. on the 26th, and then
marched via Bapaume--Le Transloy--Rocquigny and Bus, to Ytres (not to
be confused with Ypres) to a camp at Vallulart Wood. This was a long
and tiring march; 15 men dropped out, but every one of these rejoined.
Here Platoon and Company training of an easy nature was carried out
until the 2nd October, when the Battalion was again on the move. At
9.15 a.m., accompanied by the Band and Transport, we marched out of
camp and proceeding via Etricourt--where we marched past the G.O.C.
55th Division--Manancourt--where the Brigadier-General Commanding
164th Brigade watched the Battalion marching--Nurlu--Aizecourt-le-Bas
to Longavesnes where we arrived in billets at 12.50 p.m. The weather
set in cold and wet and was a disagreeable change from the perfect
conditions we had enjoyed for several weeks. Captain A. P. Procter was
temporarily in command of the Battalion.
Platoon and Company training was resumed and routes to the new trench
sector at St. Emilie were reconnoitred. A rousing Rugby football match
was played between the Battalion and Flying Corps Squadron XV. The
“Aces” were too good for the “King’s Own,” and we went under by 13
points to 5. Major Robathan rejoined from hospital, together with 12
Officer reinforcements. On the 12th October we marched into Brigade
Reserve at St. Emilie, under wet and unpleasant conditions, relieving
the 6th King’s Liverpools, while on the following evening the Battalion
took over trenches from the 7th King’s Liverpool Regiment in the
right sub-sector of the Right Sector at St. Emilie. Dispositions were
as follows: Right front line Cat Post “C” Company. Left front line
Gillemont Farm, “A” Company, Support Company, Duncan and Doleful Posts,
“B” Company. Reserve Company “D” Company and Battalion Headquarters at
Ken Lane. At 9.50 p.m. the relief was completed with no casualties. We
found the trenches in very fair condition, but much draining, reveting
and duck-boarding required.
[Sidenote: _Oct.–Nov., 1917_]
A comparatively quiet period followed. There were occasional heavy
bombardments by the enemy’s Minenwerfers and Granatenwerfers. These did
considerable damage to our trenches but no casualties occurred, and our
Trench Mortars replied vigorously. Trench life alternated with periods
in Brigade Support in St. Emilie and Lempire, until the Battalion went
into Divisional Reserve on 2nd November in Longavesnes. The following
Officer reinforcements joined during October: Second-Lieuts. R. Smith,
R. W. Higginson, W. M. Stewart, G. Field, R. S. Dane, J. Mackay,
G. F. Raeside, A. J. Dartnell, G. N. Russell, A. H. Pemberton, W.
McAndrew, J. H. Sykes, N. Smith, C. J. Holland, G. W. Ferguson. Corpl.
W. Masters, “D” Company, was killed in action, and Lance-Corpl. A.
Clark, “D” Company, Pte. H. Bolton, “B” Company and Pte. H. Caton,
“D” Company, wounded, the two latter accidentally. The following
Decorations were awarded to Officers, N.C.O.s and men for gallantry and
devotion to duty in the fighting of September 20th/23rd:--
_Military Cross._--A/Capt. A. P. Procter, Lieut. and Qr.-Mr. P. W.
Powell, Second-Lieuts. A. S. Latham and G. A. Taylor.
_Distinguished Conduct Medal._--C.S.M. D. Graham, Sergt. F. S.
Yates, Sergt. A. Burton, Lance-Sergt. J. R. Pearson.
_Military Medal._--Corpl. T. Wright, Pte. A. E. Ashburn, Corpl. E.
Lockey, Lance-Sergt. W. Whiteside, C.Q.M. Sergt. W. G. Hinds, Pte. J.
Wild, Sergt. H. Myers, Lance-Corpl. H. Dobbs, Lance-Corpl. T. Chester
and Pte. E. G. Robinson.
[Sidenote: _November, 1917_]
Lieut.-Colonel G. B. Balfour then returned from sick leave to command
the Battalion.
The period in Longavesnes was spent in Company training and organized
games. Medals were presented to the winners of the Football
Competition, and the Cup offered by Colonel Balfour was presented to
the Transport for the Sports held at Bonningues in September. The
Battalion was also exercised in the Practice Attack as a preliminary
to the real operations now impending. The Battalion Band, under Band
Sergt. Rickwood, had at this time attained to a fine standard of
efficiency, and, while adding considerably to the amenities, were a
real asset on the march. At 5 p.m. on the 17th November we marched
out from Longavesnes en route for St. Emilie, a distance of 6 miles,
and reached billets at 6.45 p.m. At 7 p.m. on the 19th the Battalion
marched out by Companies at half-hour intervals to take up attack
positions in the right sub-sector of the Right Sector. (Gillemont Farm.)
At 2.45 a.m. on the 20th November, Companies were all in position for
the attack. Their disposition was “A” Company and 1 Platoon “D” Company
on the right in Stokes Trench. “B” Company and 1 Platoon “D” Company in
centre in Stokes Trench. “C” Company and 1 Platoon “D” Company on left
in Blunt Nose. One Company 4th Loyal North Lancashire Regiment held
Cat Post--Dog Trench during the attack. At zero hour, 6.20 a.m., the
attack pushed forward under a heavy barrage of guns, trench mortars and
machine guns. The enemy wire was found to be very thick and generally
unbroken, and his barrage was quickly put down on our front line and
approaches. This barrage increased as time went on; guns from both
flanks evidently being brought into action. The Right Flank made good
progress in spite of strong opposition, and all but gained their final
objective. The Centre Company from the start encountered heavy machine
gun fire, and when they reached the enemy immediate support line, were
met with showers of bombs and rifle grenades, the enemy making a very
stubborn resistance.
They pushed on, however, and made progress for a time, but being
greatly outnumbered, and suffering heavy casualties, they were held up
short of the final objective. The Left Company encountered almost uncut
wire, but, forcing their way through, they pushed on until, running
short of bombs, and meeting superior forces of the enemy, they were
held up.
The Left Company were gradually forced back, as the attack on the left
Battalion had failed, while the Centre Company were ejected from their
forward position, and were hard pressed to hold their own. Towards
noon the Left Company had been forced back to the enemy front line,
while the Centre Company were in danger of being cut off from the Right
Company, who were themselves being forced gradually back.
At 12.45 p.m. reinforcements were sent up from the 5th King’s
Liverpools, and, with the help of these 2 Platoons, the Centre Company
attempted to consolidate the enemy front line, and join up with the
Right Company. About 1 p.m. the enemy made a very determined attack,
and forced the Centre Company back into our original line by weight of
numbers, and superiority of bombs, rifle grenades, etc. Enemy trench
mortars and artillery were active on our Support Line and roads of
approach. The Right Company, finding both flanks in the air, and being
attacked by superior numbers, fell back to avoid being surrounded and
cut off altogether. The fighting all morning was particularly fierce,
but the enemy were superior in numbers and ammunition, and great
difficulty was experienced in getting ammunition through the enemy
barrage to the attacking Companies. The Companies reorganized in our
front line, and devoted all their efforts to clearing the trenches of
wounded, debris, etc.
The Battalion was relieved during the night of the 20th /21st by the
4th Loyals, and moved into dugouts in Ken Lane--Sart Lane, the relief
being completed by 4.30 a.m. The day was spent resting, cleaning
clothes, arms, etc., and salving of equipment, arms, and the removal
of dead from the front line. At 6 p.m. on the 22nd Companies moved
off independently and concentrated at St. Emilie, where they were met
by the Band, and marched to billets in Longavesnes, and became part
of the Divisional Reserve. At 2.30 p.m. on the 23rd the Major-General
Commanding the Division came and spoke to the Battalion, which paraded
in fatigue dress. In the course of his remarks, the General stated that
“Although the Battalion did not hold their gains, yet they more than
achieved the object of this attack. A considerable quantity of men and
guns were kept employed opposite our front, and so assisted our advance
at Cambrai. No enemy reinforcements left our front until late in the
day.”
The following casualties were sustained during this attack:--
Officers.--Killed, Lieut. A. M. Clark (displayed splendid leadership
in Gillemont Crescent), Second-Lieut. A. J. Dartnell. Wounded,
Second-Lieut. J. R. Rundle (died of wounds), Capt. T. R. Blain,
Second-Lieuts. R. Smith, J. Mackay, J. H. Sykes, G. Field, L. R.
Keighley. Total, 9.
Other Ranks.--Killed 9, Wounded 113, Missing 80. Total 202.
There was little repose in this period of “rest” and the general
atmosphere was one of tension. On the 29th the Battalion was ordered
to “Stand To” and be ready to move immediately, as heavy enemy attacks
were expected opposite the Divisional front. At 8.30 a.m. on the 30th
we moved off by Companies to concentrate with the rest of the 164th
Brigade near St. Emilie. At 10.30 a.m. the Battalion was ordered to
move to Epehy and hold on at all costs. The enemy had broken through
on the flank of the Left Brigade, and cut off almost the whole of the
Brigade in the line. At 12 noon Companies extended to N.E. of Epehy and
advanced in extended order to reinforce the 5th King’s Own, who were
being forced back from their forward positions. Companies dug in a new
line about 300 yards behind the front line held by the 5th King’s Own.
The enemy were held, and we commenced to consolidate the position. The
evening was fairly quiet and our casualties had been small.
[Sidenote: _December, 1917_]
On the 1st December the Battalion were in immediate support to the
remains of the 166th Brigade, on the left of the Divisional front.
The line held was as follows: From Fallen Tree Road on the right to
Fourteen Willows Road and thence to Epehy--Villers Guislain Road on the
left. During the early morning a party of the 5th King’s Own and 10th
Liverpool Scottish, who had been surrounded in Limerick Post for nearly
twenty-four hours, fought their way out and regained our lines. This
party reinforced the front line and enabled closer touch to be gained
with the 5th Lancashire Fusiliers on our left. At 6 a.m. an attack was
due to commence by Tanks and Cavalry, with the intention of re-taking
Villers Guislain, but no action was observed, although the artillery
activity on the left increased considerably. At 9 a.m. however
an attack by cavalry commenced. Two Squadrons advanced along the
Epehy--Villers Guislain road and attempted to attack in the direction
of Villers Guislain, but they were so badly cut up by artillery fire
and Machine Guns that they withdrew to Epehy. Cavalry also attacked
from Little Priel Farm on the right, and managed to make progress. One
Squadron attempted to approach Villers Guislain by pushing along the
valley from Little Priel Farm, but were met with heavy machine gun fire
from Parr’s Bank, and although they held on to a forward position near
Fourteen Willows Road for some time, they suffered heavy casualties,
and were ultimately forced to withdraw.
The enemy made no further attempt to attack the Brigade front,
devoting his efforts to consolidating the ground gained, but his
artillery, Machine Guns and snipers were very active all morning. At
1 p.m. we launched a counter-attack with the intention of re-taking
Meath, Kildare and Limerick Posts, and making these posts a line
of resistance. About 200 of the 5th King’s Own, 10th Liverpool
Scottish and 5th Loyals, together with 2 Squadrons of Indian Cavalry,
constituted the attacking force. Inadequate Artillery support, and
heavy enemy Machine Gun fire were mainly responsible for the failure
of the attack, and the survivors returned to our front line, having
suffered severely. During the attack “A” Company moved up from
immediate support to the front line, S. of Fourteen Willows Road.
At 4.30 p.m. enemy Artillery became very active, Battalion Headquarters
in Fourteen Willows Road, our front line and support line to the right
of the Epehy--Villers Guislain Road, were heavily shelled for about
half an hour. As evening drew near, however, conditions became normal.
The 8th Liverpool Irish advanced on the left of Epehy--Villers Guislain
Road in support of the 4th Loyals, and eventually gained touch with the
left flank of the 166th Brigade on the right of Epehy--Villers Guislain
Road. The 166th Infantry Brigade, including the 4th King’s Own, were
relieved during the night by the 110th Infantry Brigade, 21st Division,
and went into billets in St. Emilie, the relief being completed at 1.30
a.m. on the 2nd December, and all Companies had arrived in billets
by 3.30 a.m. The day was spent in resting and cleaning equipment and
clothes, but we were again under orders to be ready to move at half an
hour’s notice. Reserves of ammunition, grenades, tools and rations were
brought up to establishment.
At 4 p.m. on the 4th December orders were received for the Battalion
to move up to Sandbag Alley to reinforce the Reserves of the 165th
Brigade. Companies moved off independently and all were safely in
dugouts by 8 p.m. In anticipation of an imminent enemy attack we
“stood to,” “C” and “D” Companies manning Queen’s Trench, and “A”
and “B” Companies remaining in Sandbag Alley. All being quiet on the
Brigade front Companies stood down at 7.30 a.m. At midnight on the 5th
the 165th Brigade including the 4th King’s Own, were relieved by the
48th Infantry Brigade, 16th Division. On completion Companies marched
independently to St. Emilie. Accommodation was exceedingly scarce, and
the whole Battalion were crowded into one Adrian Hut. The weather was
very cold, dry and frosty. At 5.30 a.m. on the 6th we were called on to
man the Brown Line as Reserves to the 48th Infantry Brigade, in case
of attack. After considerable difficulty this was completed, but the
morning proved exceptionally quiet, and the Battalion was ordered by
Division to return to billets in St. Emilie.
At 1 p.m. verbal orders were received from Colonel Eden, A.A. and
Q.M.G., that the Battalion would be relieved that day, and were to
proceed to Longavesnes. Accordingly at 2 p.m. we marched to the
Transport Lines at Villers Faucon and had tea. At 5 p.m., accompanied
by the Band, the Battalion marched into Longavesnes, and proceeded
thence by bus to Peronne, which was reached at 7.15, and by 8 p.m.
the whole Battalion had reached the Camp. The whole of the 7th was
spent in resting and making preparations for continuing the move. The
weather turned wet in the evening. At 10 a.m. on the 8th following
the 8th Liverpool Irish and 5th Lancashire Fusiliers, we marched to
Peronne-Flamicourt Station and entrained, leaving at 12 noon for
Beaumetz-les-Loges. On arrival at 9.30 p.m. we formed up behind the 8th
Liverpool Irish and marched into billets at Lattre St. Quentin at 2
a.m. on the 9th after a tiring march in the rain. The route travelled
was via Simoncourt--Wanquentin--Hauteville--Lattre St. Quentin. The
remainder of the day was spent in resting and cleaning up, rain falling
almost the whole day. The Transport, which had marched all the way
from Peronne, halting for the night of the 8th/9th at Courcelles,
arriving at 6 p.m.
On the 10th at 9 a.m. the Battalion was again on the march, moving via
Avesnes le Comte--Manin--Givenchy le Noble--Penin--Tinques, arriving
in billets in Bailleul-aux-Cornailles at 2 p.m., the weather being
fine but cold. The following day at 10.30 a.m. the march was resumed
via Monchy--Breton (where we marched past the Brigadier-General
Commanding 164th Infantry Brigade)--La Thieuloye--Valhuon Hestrus to
Eps, where billets were reached at 3 p.m., the weather being fine.
On the 12th at 10 a.m. the Battalion marched to Crepy via Petit
Anvin, billets being reached at 12 noon. At 10.30 a.m. on the 13th,
we made what was to be the last of this series of marches moving via
Fruges--Monteville--Radhinghem--Wandonne and Dennebroccq to Reclinghem
where we arrived in billets at 3.25 p.m. The weather continued warm and
bright.
After the hard fighting and strenuous exercises of the past few
months, the long period of rest in Reclinghem which followed was not
unacceptable. Freed from trench worries for the time being, leisurely
but thorough attention could be paid to reorganization, platoon and
company training, and this was the general routine now followed. The
Brigade Baths at Coyecque also received a full measure of patronage.
The weather turned cold, with leaden skies threatening snow, and this
duly arrived to give a traditional setting to Christmas Day. This was
our third Christmas in France and Belgium, and as the previous two
had been spent in the trenches at Authuille and Ypres respectively,
special efforts were made on this occasion to mark this genial festival
in a more fitting manner. A very pleasant day was spent, and one that
lingers in the memory. There was a Voluntary Church Parade in the
morning, which took place in the School at Reclinghem, and at 3.30
p.m. the Brigadier-General Commanding, accompanied by the Commanding
Officer, visited all the Companies in turn at dinner. The Sergeants,
after attending to the men’s needs, had their dinner at 5.30 p.m., and
they also received a visit from the Commanding Officer, when the usual
compliments of the season were exchanged. All Officers dined together
in the Headquarters Mess at 7.30 p.m., when the Battalion Band was in
attendance, and rendered an appropriate programme in a pleasing manner.
Altogether a memorable day.
[Sidenote: _January, 1918_]
New Year’s Day, 1918, was observed, by order of the Brigadier, as
a holiday from all parades, except for short inspection parades in
the morning. Sports were indulged in during the day, but the weather
conditions were too severe to admit of organized games. News was
received that the Brigadier-General Commanding (General Stockwell) had
been awarded the C.M.G., and a congratulatory message was sent from
the Colonel and all Officers. In spite of the adverse weather, which
necessitated much clearing of snow, training was persevered with, and
on the 19th January the First Army Commander, General Sir H. S. Horne,
inspected the 164th Infantry Brigade Group on the parade ground of
the 5th Lancashire Fusiliers, at Coyecque. He took the opportunity of
presenting medal ribands awarded to various members of the Battalion,
Officers, N.C.O.s and men. The massed Brigade Buglers, under Corporal
Parry of the 4th King’s Own, sounded the General Salute. The Battalion
Band played during the Inspection, and, as the various units marched
past, played the “March Past” of each Unit. The Army Commander, in his
address, referred to the fight at Gueudecourt on September 27th, 1916,
on which occasion the 164th Brigade was last under his Command--as
Commander of the XIV Corps. He complimented the Brigade on its fine
turnout, and steadiness on parade.