1917 War Diary appendices

NOTES: All remarks in squared brackets are my own additions, amendments or comments and are not part of the original document

I have adjusted all names to show in bold and capital letters, to make them easier to pick out. This is not how they appear in the original document.

February 1917

Appendix VII. Headquarters, 15^th Infantry Brigade. Report on raid attempted by enemy on our lines at S.28.a.45/65 and S.22.c.45/05

About 4.45am the enemy managed to enter our lines between islands30 and 28, both garrisoned by Lewis Guns. The distance between these two islands is about 150 yards. The night was very dark and the ground in “NO MAN’S LAND” is very broken and affords good concealment.

The garrison at 30a were first alarmed by the enemy bombing our wire to the right. They put up lights and saw a party of about 30 to 40 Germans in file getting though our wire between 30a and 30b. (The 30b is not garrisoned). They opened fire with their gun and most of the enemy retired. However an Officer and about six determined men rushed forward and got through the wire. They bombed toward 30a island. The Officer was killed close to this island and the remainder of this party proceeded between 32 Strong Point and COVER TRENCH and entered out breastwork at about Post 33 from behind. Meanwhile the whole Company had stood to and Lieut. G de C. MILLIAS organised a bombing party and kept them out of the Strong Point. Sergeant GROOM was killed here. At the same time 2^nd Lieut. A.A.CREASEY mounted a Lewis Gun at the junction of SHETLAND ROAD  and COVER TRENCH and so pinned the enemy in the straight piece of breastwork between 32 and 34. Two Germans were killed by this fire and the remainder wounded. The wounded managed to scramble over the parapet and get away.

Simultaneously with this another party of about 30 Germans were seen advancing in file across “NO MAN’S LAND” towards No. 34 Post. Our Lewis Gun team caught this party with their fire when about 50 yards from our wire. [Adjusted to] 3 dead Germans have been spotted in “NO MAN’S LAND” about 20 yards in front of German wire at this point and it is thought probable that there are others in our wire. A strong search party will go out tonight.

CASUALTIES.

ENEMY. 1 Officer, 3 Other Ranks (confirmed)

OUR OWN. 1 Sergeant killed.

Of the enemy casualties one Officer and two Other Ranks were left in our hands, and several were known to have been wounded.

The conduct of 2^nd Lieut. A.A.CREASEY and Lieut. G de C. MILLAIS deserve special mention. It was entirely due to their alertness, personal courage and initiative that a big enemy raid was foiled.

(Signed) F.N.BUTLER, Lieut-Colonel. Commanding 1^st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment. 17^th February 1917.

March 1917.

Appendix [not numbered]. Headquarters, 15^th Infantry Brigade. Report on raid attempted by enemy on our lines at A.28.c..40/45

About 8pm 16-3-1917 enemy opened fire on our front line and support trenches. Two minutes after barrage started 30 to 40 enemy were seen trying to get through our wire near BOYAU 5. Our L.G.’s and rifles opened fire and compelled the raiding party to retire.

The Officer on duty in our front line fired two red Very Lights (S.O.S.) towards Company Hd. Qrs. This signal was not observed at Company Hd. Qrs. by the sentry on duty or by an Officer, who, with others, was standing on the look-out on the firestep. This was probably due to the intensity of the flashes from the bombardment.

As soon as the bombardment started Bn. Hd. Qrs. asked the F.O.O. to have the artillery standing to and also to retaliate on the enemy front line and NO MAN’S LAND which was complied with.

The enemy did not enter our trenches.

An Officers patrol went out and discovered two dead enemy in our wire. One had been brought in; the other is too badly damaged to move. It is thought there are other dead in front.

Our casualties, caused by the artillery bombardment are 2 O.R. killed, 4 O.R. wounded

On receipt of your message re expected German raid all Companies stood to, after being warned.

Personal effects taken from the enemy killed are forwarded herewith, including identity disc, pay book and maps.

17-3-17 (Signed) F.N.BUTLER Lt-Col. Commanding 1^st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment. 2.55am.

To O.C. 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.

XI Corps wire begins. aaa

The Corps Commander wishes his congratulations conveyed to General TURNER and to O.C. 1^st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment on the successful way in which the Battalion dealt with hostile raid last night (Mar 16/17^th).

From 15^th Infantry Brigade.

April 1917.

Appendix XII. OPERATION ORDER No.73. Map Reference VIMY Scale 1/10,000. 22^nd April 1917.

1. ATTACK. The 5^th Division will attack and capture S Trenches from VIMY-AVIONS Railway to the SOUCHEZ Railway.

2. POSITION. 15^th Infantry Brigade will attack on the right. 95^th Infantry Brigade will attack on the left. 15^th Infantry Brigade will attack with first Battalion Norfolk Regiment and 1^st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment on the left. (95^th Infantry Brigade on the left of 1^st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment.)

3. BOUNDARIES. 1^st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment – Right T.1.c.80/60 – T.1.d.10/90. Left S.6.central to junction of railway and road at N.31.c.95/90 exclusive.

4. OBJECTIVES. 1^st Objective T.1.b.10/10 to T.1.b.0/6 thence to N.31.c.3/1. 2^nd Objective T.1.b.60/85 to N.31.d.20/50 thence to 31.c.95/90.

5. BARRAGE. On German front line from Zero to Zero plus ten. German second line (1^st objective) from Zero plus 10 to Zero plus 14. About 100 yards (1^st objective) a pause of 24 minutes will be observed. It then creeps forward at a rate of 100 yards in 4 minutes until it reaches the outskirts of AVION.

6. GENERAL METHOD. A & B Companies will take the first objective with two platoons each in first wave and two platoons in second wave. A Coy. on the right, B Coy. on the left. C & D Companies will take second objective, “C” on the right, “D” on the left. Dividing line between Companies – T.1.a.7/7 (where LENS – ARRAS road crosses German second line) to N.31.d.3/3.

7. DETAILED METHOD. From 30 yards our side of Outpost Line.

A Company. 1^st platoon of this company that moves will avoid CYRIL TRENCH on East side of the road and close to it will deploy 150 yards from the road. 2^nd platoon will follow this one keeping along the road and from 200 yards to 400 yards will change direction man by man and lay in the ditch in the road. The advance will be made from the left about half hour after deployment. 3^rd platoon will attack the triangle at T.1 central and enfiladed with -- (1) Bombs below ground (2) Lewis Guns on top – the WATER TOWER TRENCH  and  FOSSE No.7 TRENCH. 4^th platoon will support the 3^rd and act as Moppers Up for the whole company. Touch must be kept with the 1^st Norfolk Regiment on the right and the whole triangle including junction of CYRIL TRENCH taken.

B Company. Right on LENS – ARRAS road and left on left boundary keeping touch with 95^th Infantry Brigade. The first two platoons will go straight to their objectives and the second two platoons will get into the German front line and mop up.

C & D Companies will advance at 100 yards distance from assaulting companies and will get into A & B Companies objective as soon as it is taken. They will wait in this trench until barrage moves forward from stationary line Zero plus 38 when they will move forward to final objective  behind the barrage.

8. Watches to be syncronised at Commanding Officers conference.

9. FIRING. There will be no firing or bombing until after barrage had opened. If parties are met they will be bayoneted.

10. COMMUNICATION. I Power Busser junction of A & B Companies in first objective. Visual should be possible at south end of same wall to a point to be notified.

11. CONTACT AEROPLANE. Will fly at Zero plus 1 hour and Zero plus 2 hours. Flares will be lit if called for by KLAXON HORN and in places as invisible as possible from the enemy. Only front line troops will light them.

12. S.O.S. See V.P.A.

13. TIME TABLE. Time table and detail for relief of 15^th Bn. Royal Warwickshire Regiment as attached. Previous time tale to be cancelled.

14. ROYAL ENGINEERS. R.E. i/c section will report to Battalion headquarters at 2am.

15. PRISONERS. To be collected in CYRIL TRENCH. 16^th Royal Warwickshire Regt. to arrange escorts.

16. ZERO HOUR. 4.45am

17. FLAGS. Flags will be carried and not stuck in the ground.

18. BATTALION H.Q. Battalion Headquarters at S.12.b.8/1

Please acknowledge.

(Signed) Beale Lt. & Adjt., 1^st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.

Report on action at La Coulotte.. Lt. Colonel P.B. Worrall M.C. Commanding 1^st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.

Sir, I have the honour to report that I received orders to attack LA COULOTTE from T.1.d.1/9 to T.1.a.3/9. and attach a copy of my Operation Orders which I personally explained in detail to all Officers and NCO’s. Briefly, I had to make:

(a) a frontal attack to the N.

(b) a flank attack East on WATER TOWER TRENCH.

AND (c) attack on triangle south of WATER TRENCH from the south, including a large part of CYRIL TRENCH held by the Germans.

The whole undertaking seemed to be most hazardous.

I considered the WATER TOWER TRENCH to be key to the situation and so attacked it frontally and in enfilade. Had I not got this footing, my Battalion must haave been wiped out by WATER TOWER TRENCH if we were held up by wire.

NARRATIVE.

4.40am. For half an hour previous to this I heard no M.G. fire and this proved a successful deployment.

5.15am. Two wounded reported that left company had reached 1^st line German trench. It proved afterwards to be correct but with regard to extreme left only.

6.15am. 24 prisoners marched in from DEVONS and BEDFORDS captured at the junction of these two Battalions. 6.5am O.C. right assault company reported wounded but right company going through gaps. This Officer in charge and many others afterwards reported that it took at least five minutes to get through the wire, that there were few gaps, and a double belt (the first one 15 yards thick) in front of the first line.

7.05am. Touch with NORFOLKS reported.

7.55amj. Right 2^nd wave (“C” Coy.) report they had passed through first objective (second German line) met with strong resistance, machine gun fire from houses and minerwerfer, but captured 9 prisoners (sent back), and 2 machine guns which they later smashed, and parties actually reached buildings T.1.b.5/9 and made a great attempt to rush LA COULOTTE from there, patrols were also sent out from there to try and get touch with the NORFOLKS , and companies on the left.

9.50am. NCO’s from “B” and “D” (left companies) reported that their right was held up, they had been surrounded and several prisoners had been taken. I have satisfied myself that these men were between two belts of wire with wire and a communication trench on the right from which they were enfiladed, and the gaps through which they had advanced were covered, and that they were bombed from the front and like rats in a trap.

Lt. Hunter from the right and who was on the other side of the road witnessed it and stated they were absolutely powerless.

10.00am. I sent orders to “A” and “C” to hang on and throw a defensive flank from junction of LENS-ARRAS ROAD and 1^st German line and make strenuous efforts to get in touch with “B” and “D” .

11.05am. Lt. Woodford wounded, reported that “B” and “D” took the German 2^nd line and were at once driven out of it with the exception of extreme left (communication trench T.1.a.30/95). Capt. C.A.S. Morris O.C. B Company was killed in rallying his men to make a gallant attack on machine guns, holding up their advance from 2^nd line. At the same time I received a message that the remnants of A and C Companies were under 100 in WATER TOWER TRENCH and TRIANGLE, and that there were some NORFOLKS fighting with them and that they could not hold out much longer. They asked for reinforcements and bombs.

1.30pm. I applied at once for permission to conduct retirement in person but on this being refused I despatched Lt.H.J.EVERERTT MC with all available men from headquarters with 700 bombs and detailed orders for retirement if forced back, and I considered it imperative:

1. To hold the strong point in CYRIL TRENCH and not save the OUTPOST LINE

2. To evacuate my wounded (some 30) in the TUNNEL before evacuation.

My orders were more than carried out, the bombs were taken up under heavy fire, though some sent up by another Regiment failed to arrive, a splendid attack was led by a Sergeant of the NORFOLKS before the withdrawal, all the wounded were got away, and barricade strengthened before withdrawal.

[Cannot read time]. Verbal message received that A and C Companies had withdrawn to our original OUTPOST LINE and that Lt. H.J.EVERETT MC again sent up with a further supply of ammunition and bombs for strong point in CYRIL TRENCH.

[Cannot read time]. My position at the time of this withdrawal was:

1. About 60 men of “A” and “C”, all me effective rifles and some NORFOLKS from about T.1.a.6/7 to T.1.a.9/0 (German Front Line).

2. On my left from T.1.a.5/6 to T.1.a.1/8 the remnants of “B” and “D” lying out in front of German Wire till dusk, being continually bombed, grenaded and minenwerfened.

[Cannot read time]. A proportion of “B” and “D” Companies withdrew under the smoke of a protective barrage on German 2^nd Line trench, to left of OLD OUTPOST LINE.

Copy of orders of my forced retirement attached.

I consider that my Officers, NCO’s and men showed great devotion to duty against untold odds, particularly wire and machine guns and I am forwarding under separate cover a list of recommendations.

I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient servant

P.R.WORRALL, Lt.Colonel commanding 1^st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.

Headquarters 15th Infantry Brigade

Herewith list of recommendations for Officers, NCO’s and men during the action at LA COULOTTE. The particulars have been recorded in quintuplicate.

Recommendation – D.S.O. [Comment; awarded a Bar to his M.C. and promoted to Major instead.]

Captain William Stuart CHIRNSIDE, M.C.

For gallantry in action at LA COULOTTE on 23^rd inst. He reached his furthest objective, despite heavy casualties. Later, after being nearly buried by a shell, stuck to his position against heavy odds, and only retired after receiving certain orders which allowed evacuation of the wounded, the establishing of a strong point, and the security of a line in rear. This Officer showed resolution and resource, and a courage of a high standard.

Recommendation – M.C.

2/Lieut. John William SULLIVAN

During the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Displayed the greatest courage and tenacity throughout the day and inspired all ranks. He fought his Company to a standstill and on receiving a supply of bombs again made a further attack to cover a forced withdrawal.

Recommendation – M.C.

Captain James McKAY R.A.M.C.

During the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. With calm courage went up to the TUNNELL (junction of CYRIL TRENCH and LENS-ARRAS road) which was blown in and heavily shelled all day. He evacuated 30 wounded when the Battalion were forced to withdraw and organised stretcher parties throughout the night after the Battalion had been relieved.

Recommendation – Bar to M.C.

2/Lt Horace John EVERETT, M.C.

During the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. After party had failed to get up bombs and S.A.A. this Officer took up a party from Battalion headquarters and got through with 700 bombs and a good deal of S.A.A. at a very critical time, and helped to build a barricade to cover the retirement.

Recommendation – M.C.

Lt Geoffrey de Carteret MILLAIS

For cool courage at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Though lying out in a shell hole all day a short distance from German wire when he was continually fired at with M.G. and Minnenwerfen which became intense and his retiring a problem, he despatched [?] later despite the fact that he knew this would draw attention to his position. One of the men with him was wounded. He also sent back two messages by power buzzer and was unable to withdraw until night.

Recommendation – D.C.M.

9885 Sergeant Arthur BAXTER

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. After being wounded in the stomach, went into the German 2^nd line and continued to carry on until he was sent back by his Company Officer. He then carried a message back to Battalion headquarters.

Recommendation – D.C.M.

6521 C.S.M. Walter FREER

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Showed great coolness and resource under fire and personally led a bombing party and drove the enemy out of the trench. During the whole of the day from 4.45am to 3pm he took an active part in the fighting and rendered his Company Officer valuable assistance.

Recommendation – D.C.M.

43473 Corporal Charles James VOWLES

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Against great odds ran back with a message when lying under German wire with the information that “B” and “D” Companies were held up and could not move. He later volunteered and went out with another perilous message

Recommendation – D.C.M.

28207 Private James SINCLAIR

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Twice took most urgent messages at great risk and was largely responsible for guiding up the party with 700 bombs when other had failed, and by making light of the task filled the party with determination.

Recommendation – M.M.

6535 Lance Corporal Frederick William ROWLEY

During the action at LA COULOTTE on April 23^rd. Volunteered to undertake difficult patrol when in the open, to get in touch with the Company on is left, and during the whole day showed great energy and resource.

Recommendation – M.M.

16957 Private Richard Ralph HOAR

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Out of a party of stretcher bearers who did most excellent work Pte HOAR and Pte SAPSFORD have been selected. His devotion to duty was most marked, they went backwards and forwards to the TUNNELL which was heavily shelled all day, and evacuated 30 wounded before the withdrawal in a short space of time.

Recommendation – M.M.

14558 Private Frederick SAPSFORD

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Out of a party of stretcher bearers who did most excellent work he and Pte HOAR have been selected. His devotion to duty was most marked, they went backwards and forwards to the TUNNELL which was heavily shelled all day, and evacuated 30 wounded before the withdrawal in a short space of time.

Recommendation – M.M.

19836 Lance Corporal William Henry SMITH

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. While under heavy M.G. and artillery fire put out wire from a power buzzer thereby getting the instrument in action and sending back important information. On moving forward again he was wounded and remained out all day.

Recommendation – Bar to M.M.

3/7450 Lance Corporal George Henry BLAND

In the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. When wounded, organised his Lewis Gun detachment and withdrew them all in a bombing fight.

Recommendation – M.M.

3/7373 Lance Sergeant Edward FLITTON

When the Battalion had been relieved after the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Sergeant FLITTON volunteered to go back and find Lieut’s. ILLINGWORTH  and HART. He took a party of 7 men and got to the German wire. During the operations he did excellent work.

Recommendation – M.M.

7721 Sergeant Walter HILLIARD

During the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23^rd inst. Showed great courage and a fine example by steadying the men while they were under heavy shell fire in the open. He also rallied them at a most important time and his Company fought to a standstill.

April 26^th 1917, P.R. WORRALL Lt. Col. Commander 1^st Bn. Bedfordshire regt.

July 1917

OPERATION ORDER No. 93 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment July 1st. 1917
1. You will be relieved to-night by the K.O.S.B's.

2. Send guides to Company Headquarters in old German line, immediately on receipt of these orders.

3. Withdraw to TUNNEL Dump on Railway, and thence to Concentration Camp at A.24.a.
Guides will be waiting for you at J. post 10 o'clock p.m. to-night.

4. Am arranging Food and Teas for men at TUNNEL Dump. 5. Owing to late arrival of K.O.S.B's. it was impossible to relieve you. It was no fault of theirs or ours. The relieving Company is waiting in old German Front line, so that relief will be early.

OPERATION ORDER No.94 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Map reference: 51.b.N.W. July 4th. 1917.
1. The Battalion will relieve the 1st. Devonshire Regiment in Reserve trenches E. of WILLERVAL to-night, and will come under orders of the 95th. Infantry Brigade.

2. Companies will take over from their opposite numbers. Captain W.S.Chirnside M.C. and Captain H.A.W.Pearse will go on in daylight and take over trenches and work for "C" and "D" Companies, and "A" and "B" Companies respectively, also 1 N.C.O. for Headquarters and 1 per Coy. 3. Battalion will parade at 9-15 p.m. Order of march: - Headquarters "D" Coy. "A" Coy. "C" Coy. "B" Coy. No troops allowed E. of the ridge before 10 p.m. ROUTE as used when digging in WILLERVAL NORTH

4. GUIDES. 1 for Headquarters and 2 per Company of the 1st. Devonshire Regt. will meet the Battalion at 10-30 p.m. B.9.b.82/20. where track cuts WILLERVAL - SUGAR FACTORY Road

5 WORK. Immediately on arrival in trenches, "C" and "D" Companies will dump their packs, etc., in their trenches, and will at once work on TIRED ALLEY, under Captain W.S.Chirnside M.C. continuing work done by "A" and "B" Companies last night. Number of men required - 150. Task to be allotted by Captain W.S.Chirnside M.C. "A" and "B" Companies will carry on the following night, and so on in rotation.

6. GAS. The enemy often shells WILLERVAL with Gas shells during the day and night. Special precautions will be taken. (i) Box Respirators always worn in the alert. (ii) Sentries to be posted on all Dug-outs, and gas blankets put up. Sgt. Fisher for Headquarters, and Gas N.C.O's will make all arrangements.

7. There must be no movement by day and no smoke

8. TRANSPORT.

1. rations will be issued before the Battalion moves.

2. Lewis Gun limbers will march with their Companies. Company Officers Trench Kits will be put on these limbers.

3. 1 Limber will be at Battalion Headquarters to take Orderly Room Boxes, H.Q. Officers kits, Signalling kit, etc., to trenches.

4. Officers valises will be ready for loading at 8 p.m. Sergt. Drummer will be responsible that nothing is left behind, and that Camp is left clean.

5. When Battalion comes out of line, Transport Officer and R.S.M. will see that all regimental Tools are collected and sent back to Transport.

6. WATER Carts and petrol cans will come up every night. R.S.M. will arrange to collect all cans every night, and get them [filled?]. At end of tour all cans to be returned to Transport.
All water bottles must be filled before moving off.

7. COOKING under arrangements made by 2nd. in Command.

9. Battalion Headquarters N. of WILLERVAL, B.3.d.60/55.

10. Relief complete will be reported by wire, code message "No water", and by runner. N.B. As the 1st.Devonshire Regiment have a long march to do to-night, Companies will arrange for relief to be carried out as soon as possible

WORK JULY
Night of 5/6th - "A" Company - work on TIRED ALLEY - Officer in Charge - Captain Pearse - Work under R.E. - Time to commence Work DARK - Task 4 hours or as allotted by R.E.
Night of 5th/6th - "B" Coy. less 25 O.R's. - Work on TIRED ALLEY - Officer in Charge Captain Pearse - Work under R.E. - Time to commence Work DARK - Task 4 hours or as allotted by R.E.
Night of 5th/6th - 25 O.R's. of "B" - Officer in Charge Senior Sergt. - Work under O.C. 185 Tunnelling Coy. - Time to commence Work 9 p.m. - Task 4 hours
Night of 6th/7th - as above "C" Company doing "A" Coy's task. "D" Company doing "B" Coy's task. Captain W.S.Chirnside, M.C. in charge

As many men as possible, including Servants, Orderlies, and Stretcher Bearers will work with their Companies. An Officer from each Company should be sent on each night at Dusk, to pace out the task, so that the men can start on the work immediately light permits. The Route to Dug-out No.5. B.10.a.6/3 must be reconnoitred beforehand, and men must be sent there in small parties, so that the last arrives and the party is able to start work at 9 p.m. The Companies who are not working, will carry Rations, Water and Tea to the Companies that are working. R.S.M. to make arrangements.

OPERATION ORDER No.95 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Map reference: - 51.b. N.W. July 9th./'17.
1. The Battalion will be relieved by the 15th Royal Warwickshire Regiment to-night, and will come under orders of the 15th. Infantry Brigade on completion of relief.

2. Guides will be provided by Companies as arranged by them this morning, with reconnoitring parties of the 15th. R.Warwickshire Regt.

3. Companies will report relief complete by code "WHISKY RECEIVED", and will move off independently.

4. The Battalion will move to Huts in ECURIE WOOD, - Guides, 1 per Coy. and 1 for Headquarters, will meet the Battalion at junction of LENS - ARRAS Road, and track through SPRINGVALE CAMP (A.22.c.) (Camp occupied by Battalion before moving to OPPY.)

5. Limbers will be at Ration Dump (B.9.b.85/50) at 10-45 p.m. to take tools, petrol cans, Mess Kit, Orderly Room and Coffee Shop Boxes, etc., The R.S.M. will meet these, and supervise loading Issued at 4 p.m.

OPERATION ORDER No. 96 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Map Reference: - Roclincourt 51.B. N.W.1. July 15th. 1917.
Reference Warning Order No. A.769
1. The Battalion will relieve the 1st. Norfolk Regiment in Camp at A.24. 2. Order of March: - Headquarters "A" Coy. "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. 1/4 of an hours interval between each Company and Headquarters. Headquarters will leave present Camp at 1-15 p.m. 3. Advance Parties. Lieut. E.F.Hanssen, C.Q.M.Sgt's and one other rank per Company, and Sgt.Healey and one other rank for Headquarters, will proceed to Camp at A.24 and take over all stores, furniture. etc., Lieut. E.F.Hanssen will also allot the accommodation in above Camp. Parade at Battalion Headquarters at 10 a.m.
4. TRANSPORT. The Transport Officer and Quartermaster will make necessary arrangements for Transport and rations. Canteen open from 11 a.m. to 12 noon.
Dinners at 12 noon. 5. Company Commanders, R.S.M. and Sergt. Drummer will render a certificate that the camp is left clean and free from S.A.A. and Bombs. R.S.M. will arrange to hand over the Incinerator, and will see that there are no live rounds put on. The 1st Battalion The Norfolk Regiment are taking over this Camp. List of all Camp furniture in present Camp will be rendered to Orderly Room by 9 a.m. to-morrow.

1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Commanding Officers' Inspection
The Inspection will take place on the Rugby Ground, at ECURIE WOOD as follows:
Monday July 23rd. 1917. 8-30 a.m. to 11-15 a.m. "A" Coy.
Tuesday July 24th. 1917. 8-30 a.m. to 11-15 a.m. "B" Coy.
Wednesday July 25th. 1917. 8-30 a.m. to 11-15 a.m. "C" Coy.
Thursday July 26th. 1917. 8-30 a.m. to 11-15 a.m. "D" Coy.
Companies will be on parade ground 5 minutes before time stated above, formed up in close column of platoons. DRESS - Full Marching Order. Packs correctly filled, on braces. All ranks will parade with their Companies, with the exception of: -
Transport Employ, Quartermaster's Employ, (not to include C.Q.M.Sgt's, Coy. Clerks and Storemen.) The main points of the inspection will be as under: -
I. TRAINING. 1. L.G. Organisation and test. 2. Bombing - Organisation of and Throwing tests 3. Rifle Grenades - Organisation of and Firing tests. 4. Attack on Trenches. 5. B.F. - Over Assault Course. 6. Musketry - Rapid Firing and Snapshooting. 7. Musketry - N.C.O's fire control 8. Map Reading - N.C.O's.
9. Company and Platoon Drill - N.C.O's.
II ADMINISTRATION 1. Inspection of Kit, Clothing etc., 2. Nominal Rolls - Company, Platoon and Section. 3. Company Pamphlets as issued. 4. Company Trench Stores. List of and to whom issued. 5. Rifles - Armourers Inspection and Report.
NOTE. The above will be collective platoon tests and Inspection, and the promotion of Privates and N.C.O's (taking into consideration their action in recent fighting) largely depend on this. Reference above, The Transport Officer and Asst. Adjt. will arrange to have all dummy hand grenades, 12 boxes of Rifle Grenades, smoke bombs, dummies, etc., on parade each day Quartermaster will be present, and arrange for Armourer Sergt, Tailor, and Bootmaker to attend. Detailed parade states shewing actual numbers on parade will be in possession of Company Commanders, besides being handed in to Orderly Room at usual time, 8 a.m. 20/7/17


OPERATION ORDER NO.97 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment July 22nd. 1917
This afternoon, the Battalion will move to ECURIE WOOD HUTS, proceeding in accordance with march table below: - "A" and "B" Companies, by Platoons at ten minutes interval, commencing at 1-30 p.m. "A" Coy. No.1, leave present Camp 1-30 p.m. No.2, leave present Camp 1-40 p.m. No.3 leave present Camp 1-50 p.m.
No.4 leave present Camp 2-0 p.m. "B" Coy. No.5 leave present Camp 2-10 p.m.
No.6 leave present Camp 2-20 p.m. No.7 leave present Camp 2-30 p.m. No.8 leave present Camp 2-40 p.m. H.Q. 1st. party, 5-10 p.m. H.Q. 2nd party, 5-20 p.m. "C" Coy. No.9 5-30 p.m. No.10 5-40 p.m. No.11 5-50 p.m. No.12 6.0 p.m. "D" Coy. No.13 6-10 p.m. No.14 6-20 p.m. No.15 6-30 p.m. No.16 6-40 p.m. Orderly Officer will check the times. Troops will not form up in larger bodies than platoons, and then only in the long grass just West of the Camp. Teas for Headquarters, "C" and "D" Companies at 4-30 p.m. in present Camp. Transport Officer will make necessary arrangements for removing Cookers, Baths, Orderly Room Kit etc., No Transport will arrive in Camp before 6 p.m., except two horses to take one Cooker to ECURIE WOOD CAMP, for "A" and "B" Companies tea. The following advance party will meet Lieut. G. de C.Millais at ECURIE WOOD CAMP at 2 p.m.
C.Q.M.Sgt's and Sgt. C.Healey for Headquarters. The Orderly Officer will see that Camp is left clean, and that all Battalion Kit is taken away.

1st BATTN. BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT RECREATIONAL PROGRAMME. ECURIE WOOD CAMP FROM MONDAY JULY 23rd TO FRIDAY JULY 27th COMMITTEE
Capt.Chirnside M.C.

7521 R.S.M.Walker, C.F.

14433 Sgt.Oatman A.
2nd Lt.H.Reynolds

8721 C.S.M.Lansbury, R.

10339 Sgt.Meads, F.
2nd Lt.R.Hare

7178 C.S.M.Smith, A.

10052 Sgt.Neale, G.
2nd Lt.B.Williams

6521 C.S.M.Freer, W.

10364 L/Cpl.Harris, T.
8692 Pte Smith

8311 C.S.M.Norman, H.

15193 Pte.Plumpton, J.
14032 Pte.Peat

15478 Pte.Salter, F.

Monday July 23rd 2.0p.m. to 4.30 p.m. "A" v. "B" at Football 2.0p.m. to 4.30 p.m. "C" v. "D" at Cricket 2.0p.m. to 4.30 p.m. "Roberts Competition" (Musketry) 5.30p.m. to 6.30 p.m. "A" v. "B" at boxing
Tuesday July 24th 2.0p.m. to 4.30p.m. "A" v. "B" at Cricket 2.0p.m. to 4.30p.m. "C" v. "D" at Football 2.0p.m. to 4.30 p.m. "Running man competition" (musketry) 5.30p.m. to 6.30p.m. "C" v. "D" at boxing
Wednesday July 25th 2.0p.m. to 4.30p.m. "D" v.Rest at football 2.0p.m. to 4.30p.m. "Pool Bull" competition (Musketry) 6.0p.m. The performance of the "DUDS" is booked for the Battn. for the evening
Thursday July 26th 2.0p.m. to 4.30p.m. Segts. and Cpls of "A" and "C" v. those of "B" and "D" at cricket 2.op.m. to 4.30p.m. Privates of "A" and "C" v. those of "B" and "D" at Football 2.0p.m. to 4.30p.m. "Rapid firing competition" (Musketry)
5.30p.m. to 6.30p.m. "C" v. "D" at Boxing
Friday July 27th 2.0p.m. to 5.30p.m. Officers v. Rest of Battn. at cricket 2.0p.m. to 4.30p.m. Shooting match (application practice) between teams of 8 from (1) Officers (2) Sgt Majors and Q.M.Sgts (3) Sgts (4) Cpls (5) L/Cpls (6) Privates. 5.30p.m. to 6.30p.m. Boxing Finals. Sgts guests night. Mess allowed open till 10.0 p.m.
The Band will play daily from 2.30p.m. to 4.30p.m. except Tuesday

1st BATTN. BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT "MINIATURE BISLEY" ON ECURIE WOOD RANGE FROM MONDAY JULY 23rd TO FRIDAY JULY 27th COMMITTEE
2nd Lieut.H.H.Reynolds
2nd Lieut.R.G.Hare
2nd Lieut.Laughton
Sgt.Orchard

Monday July 23rd 2 to 4.30 pm "ROBERTS COMPETITION" Representation of 3 waves of advancing enemy. 2 Teams per platoon of 1 N.C.O. and 7 men each. Targets (disappearing) exposed 3 times, 15 seconds each (10 rounds). Draw for order of shooting Prizes Winning team chit on Dry Canteen, 3 francs per man. 2md team chit on Dry Canteen 1 franc per man
Tuesday July 24th RUNNING MAN 2 to 4.30pm 2 Teams per platoon of 4 men each (5 rounds) Draw and prizes as above.
Wednesday July 25th "POOL BULL" 2 to 4.30pm Officers 1 franc N.C.O.s and men 1 penny 1 Sighter and 2 shots to count.
Thursday July 26th "RAPID FIRING COMPETITION" 2 to 4.30pm 2 Teams per platoon of 1 N.C.O. and 7 men each. Draw and prizes as above.
Friday July 27th "APPLICATION" 2 to 4.30pm Teams of 8 from (1) Officers (2) Sgt Majors & Q.M.Sgts (3) Sgts (4) Cpls (5) L/C (6) Ptes If Officers are losers they pay 3 francs each to winning team

OPERATION ORDER NO.98 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Sketch Map - from SUGAR FACTORY MAP Roclincourt 1/10,000 July 27th. 1917
1. On the night of the 28th/29th.July 1917, the 1st. Bedfordshire Regiment will relieve the 12th Gloucestershire Regiment, in the left sub-sector of the Brigade front.

2. The system of trenches will be held with: - 1. Two Companies in front line, "A" on Right relieving "B" Coy.Glos.Rgt. "D" on Left relieving "C" Coy.Glos.Rgt. 2. Two Companies in Support. "C" Right relieving "A" Coy.Glos.Rgt. "B" Left relieving "D" Coy.Glos.Rgt.

3. BOUNDARIES. B.12.d.20/75. to FRESNOY - ARLEUX - CRUCIFIX Road, exclusive. Boundary between Companies, B.6.d.5/1.

4. FRONT Line is a series of posts which are being connected up. (See attached Sketch Map.) Right Coy. hold No.6 post. L.G. Left Coy. hold Z post. L.G. No.5 Post Rifle Z.1 Post L.G. No.4 Post Rifle No.1 Post L.G. (by night only) No.3 Post L.G. No.4 Post Rifle S Post L.G. No.5 Post L.G. U Post L.G. No.6 Post B.M.G. U.1 Post L.G. No.7 Post Rifle X Post Rifle No.8 Post L.G. X.1 Post Rifle No.9 Post L.G. Adv. Post No.10 Post Rifle Right Support Coy. occupy KINGS STREET and BARRON Trench. Left Support Coy. occupy ARLEUX LOOP, N. of W. Trench.

5. GUIDES of the 12th Gloucestershire Regiment, (1 per platoon) will meet Battalion at junction of TOMMY and KENT Road at 6 p.m.

6. ORDER OF MARCH Headquarters "A" Coy. "D" Coy. "C" Coy. "B" Coy. by platoons at five minutes interval. Signallers leave Camp at 2-45 p.m. Remainder of H.Q. 2-50 p.m. "A" Coy. 1st Platoon at 2-55 p.m. "A" Coy. 2nd Platoon at 3-0 p.m "A" Coy. 3rd Platoon at 3-05 p.m. "A" Coy. 4th Platoon at 3-10 p.m. "D" Coy. 1st Platoon at 3-15 p.m. "D" Coy. 2nd Platoon at 3-20 p.m. "D" Coy. 3rd Platoon at 3-25 p.m. "D" Coy. 4th Platoon at 3-30 p.m. "C" Coy. 1st Platoon at 3-35 p.m. "C" Coy. 2nd Platoon at 3-40 p.m. "C" Coy. 3rd Platoon at 3-45 p.m. "C" Coy. 4th Platoon at 3-50 p.m. "B" Coy. 1st Platoon at 3-55 p.m. "B" Coy. 2nd Platoon at 4-0 p.m. "B" Coy. 3rd Platoon at 4-05 p.m. "B" Coy. 4th Platoon at 4-10 p.m. Platoons must keep at 400 yards distance the whole way right up to the front line. ROUTE - TOMMY ALLEY. Lewis Gun half limbers march in rear of Companies, as far as Police post, W. of Ridge.

7. Battalion Headquarters will be in ARLEUX LOOP, N. of W. Trench.

8. Relief complete will be reported, using code phrase: - "A" Coy. "Not sufficient tools." "B" Coy. "No. 2034 Pte. Smith." "C" Coy. "Name submitted." "D" Coy. "Two men to Hospital."

9. O.C. Front line Companies will forward a sketch map by 10 a.m. the 29th. inst. showing dispositions, strength of post, and positions of L.G's.

10. Advance parties of one Officer per Company, and one N.C.O. per platoon, Intelligence Officer, and one N.C.O. for Battalion Headquarters will leave Camp at 11-30 a.m. and take over all stores etc., in front line. Lists of all S.A.A., Bombs, trench Stores, Maps, etc., taken over will reach Battalion Headquarters by 12 noon the 29th. inst. Signalling Sergt. will proceed with this party, to take over all Signals.
11. ADMINISTRATIVE

1. Rations will be issued before moving off.

2. Transport Officer will have a limber at the Camp at 8 p.m. for Officers trench and Mess kits, Orderly Room boxes, for trenches, and convey same up at dark. Officers servants will accompany this limber.

3. The Drummers will march up with Water Cart at dark, and carry water from ration dump to Battalion Headquarters.

4. DRESS Packs, Great Coats, caps, etc., will be dumped. Haversacks containing washing and shaving material will be carried on back. Waterproof Sheets slung.

5. R.S.M. will arrange for Drummers and left Support Coy. to carry rations and water to the other three Companies from ration dump, each night.

6. COOKING. One cook per Company will proceed to the trenches and when trench cookers are available will make tea for men. When trench cookers are not available men must make their own tea. Careful precautions must be taken against smoke. Fresh meat and vegetables will be cooked at the Transport and sent up cold.

7. WATER. Cans must be returned to Battalion H.Q. as soon as they are empty. They will be collected at Battalion H.Q. at 9-30 p.m. each night.

September 1917

OPERATION ORDER No.105 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment September 3rd. 1917.

1. The Battalion will withdraw to ECURIE WOOD Camp to-morrow the 4th. inst. commencing at 10 a.m. according to table as under. Companies will leave their present lines at times stated: - "D" Coy. 10 a.m. "C" Coy. 10-10 a.m. "B" Coy. 10-20 a.m. "A" Coy. 10-35 a.m. H.Q. 10-55 a.m. All Companies will withdraw via TOMMY ALLEY and keep 5 minutes interval between platoons. 2. One Officer per Company, and one N.C.O. per platoon, and two for Battalion Headquarters, will meet the Asst. Adjt. at the Orderly Room at 9 a.m. They will proceed to ECURIE to take over Camp. 3. The Transport Officer will arrange for 3 limbers to be at the top of TOMMY ALLEY at 9 a.m. to carry Lewis Guns and Officers Mess Kit. O.C. Coy's will see that Lewis Guns and Officers Mess Kit are at TOMMY ALLEY at 9 a.m. 4. Baths are allotted to Companies as under: - "A" Coy. 3-20 to 4-5 p.m. "B" Coy. 4-5 to 4-50 p.m. "C" Coy. 4-50 to 5-35 p.m. "D" Coy. 5-35 to 6-20 p.m. H.Q. 6-20 to 7 p.m. Every effort is being made to obtain sufficient clean clothing for all. O.C. Coy's will inform Orderly Room by runner, when Companies have moved from present lines. 5. Officers chargers will be at the top of TOMMY ALLEY at 10 a.m.

OPERATION ORDER No.106 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Ref. Map LENS Sheet 11, 1/100,000 September. 4th. 1917.

1. (a) On the 5th. inst the Battalion will march to FREVIN CAPELLE, and on the 6th. inst. will continue the march to GRANDE RULLECOURT [sic]. (b) On the 5th. Inst. the Battalion will parade on top football ground, in close column of Companies, ready to move off at 2-40 p.m. Head of column will pass ECURIE-ANZIN and ARRAS-SOUCHEZ Cross Roads at 3 p.m. Order of March: - Headquarters "D" Coy. "A" Coy. Drums "B" Coy. "C" Coy. Transport Signalling Officer and 4 Signallers on bicycles will march in front of Battn. and reconnoitre the Roads through villages. 2. ADMINISTRATIVE. "A". ADVANCE PARTIES. (i) FREVIN CAPELLE The following party will meet the Staff Captain at Church, FREVIN CAPELLE, at 11 a.m. on the 5th. inst. They will parade at Battalion Headquarters ready to move off at 8 a.m. 2/Lieut. J.Dalton 1 N.C.O. for Bn. H.Q. 1 N.C.O. for Transport. 1 N.C.O. per platoon. (ii) GRANDE RULLECOURT. [sic] The following party will meet the Staff Captain at 5th. Divisional Theatre, ECURIE, on the 5th. inst at 5-45 a.m. They will proceed to GRANDE RULLECOURT [sic] by Motor Lorry. Rations for the 5th. and 6th. inst. must be carried. The Asst. Adjt. Servant and Kit. R.Q.M.Sgt. and Pte Bear. 4 C.Q.M.Sgts. 1 N.C.O. for Bn. H.Q. Pioneer Corporal and tools. "B" the orders regarding March Discipline contained in A.189, dated 31/8/17. will be strictly complied with. "C" All men whom Company Commanders consider unable to march with the Battalion, will parade for Medical Inspection at 8 a.m. on the 5th. inst. and 5-30 a.m. on the 6th. inst. Full Marching Order. This party will proceed independently under 2/Lieut. P.J.C.Daniels, leaving ECURIE at 8-30 a.m. on the 5th. inst. leaving FREVIN CAPELLE at 6 a.m. on the 6th. inst. They will march at their own pace and must be kept together.

OPERATION ORDER No. 107. 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Ref., Map - Sheet 51.c. 1/40,000 September 9th. 1917.

1. (a) On the 10th. inst. The Battalion will move to BEAUDRICOURT. (b) The Battalion will parade at 8-30 a.m. on the Football Ground, at O.3.c.1/1 in Mass, facing the LIENCOURT - GRANDE RULLECOURT [sic] Road. Order of March: - Drums. Headquarters. "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. "A" Coy. The Transport will move independently, leaving the present Transport Lines at 8-45 a.m. The Commanding Officer will inspect the Battalion before moving off. ROUTE - GRANDE RULLECOURT [sic] - SUS ST.LEGER - BEAUDRICOURT. 2. ADMINISTRATIVE. (a) The Company Officers who reconnoitred the new area will be responsible for guiding Companies to their billets. (b) All Pioneers and One N.C.O. per Company will parade at Battalion Headquarters at 8 a.m. to-morrow, under 2/Lieut.J.T.Dickinson, and proceed to BEAUDRICOURT. 2/Lieut. J.T.Dickinson will see that they carry on with the necessary work in billets, Battalion Officers Mess, etc. (c) KITS. All Officers kits will be packed, and placed outside their respective Company Headquarters by 7-30 a.m. under a guard of One N.C.O. and 2 men. The Transport Officer will be responsible that all kits are collected. Officers Mess Boxes will be ready by 8 a.m. Orderly Room Boxes, etc., will be packed by 8 a.m. also. (d) DISCIPLINE. the orders regarding March Discipline contained in A.189, dated 31/8/17, will be strictly complied with.

FOR TRAINING PURPOSES Only. 1st Battalion the Bedfordshire Regiment OPERATION ORDER "X" Reference: Sheet 51.c. 1/40,000 and Sketch 1/20,000 September 19th. 1917.

1. General Object 2. The Attack of GREEN Objective. 3. Battalion Reserve. 4. Moppers up. 5. Strong Points. 6. Time Table. 7. Consolidation. 8. Artillery. 9. Machine Guns. 10. Carrying Parties. 11. Prisoners. 12. Signals. 13. Medical Arrangements. 14. Dumps. 15. Supplies. 16. Water. 17. Dress. 18. Tools. 19. Assembly Trenches. 20. Reports. 21. Watches.

APPENDIX Sketch Map. FOR TRAINING PURPOSES ONLY 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. OPERATION ORDER "X". Reference: Sheet 51.c.1/40,000 and Sketch 1/10,000. September 19th. 1917.

1. GENERAL OBJECT. At zero date and hour, the 15th. Infantry Brigade will attack and capture the German trenches from I.33.c.0/9 to I.33.c.9/6., the GREEN LINE. Right leading Battalion - 1st. Cheshire Regiment, and Left leading Battalion - 1st Norfolk Regiment, will attack and capture the BLACK Line. Right Support Battalion - 16th. R.Warwickshire Regiment, and Left Support Battalion - 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment will capture and consolidate GREEN Objective.

(2) The attack of GREEN Objective. The 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment will be responsible for capturing the GREEN Objective from I.33.c.9/6 to I.33.c.0/9. "A" Company on the right will attack with two platoons, and take the first German line in front of black line from I.33.c.9/2 to I.33.c.45/3. and the other platoon will "leap-frog" and take the 2nd. German line from I.33.c.9/35 to I.33.c.45/48. "B" Company on the left will conform and take from I.33.c.45/3 to I.33.c.0/4, and in 2nd. German line from I.33.c.45/48 to I.33.c.0/6. "C" Company on the right will advance through "A", seize 3rd. German line with two platoons from I.33.c.9/5 to I.33.c.45/7, and its third platoon will push on to GREEN Line, take from I.33.c.9/6 to I.33.c.45/8, and consolidate. "D" Company on the left in like manner to "C", will seize from I.33.c.45/7 to I.33.c.9/8 with the two leading platoons and from I.33.c.45/8 to I.33.c.0/9 with its last platoon. Companies must be self-supporting in the attack for their respective objects, unless the strongest resistance is met with.

3. BATTALION RESERVE. Company Headquarters Lewis Gun Section, will form a Battalion Reserve at Battalion Headquarters

4. MOPPERS UP. Each line will do its own Mopping up, but on each line being jumped, the line so jumped, will send Moppers up along the Communication trench to the trench being attacked.

5. STRONG POINTS. Any met with, will be immediately enveloped in smoke, grenaded, out-flanked and rushed. Action must be sharp and decisive and after capture the line must straighten before advancing, and bearings quickly checked by compass.

6. TIME TABLE. Zero.1st Cheshires and 1st.Norfolks leaving jumping off line. Zero plus 10, 1st Cheshires and 1st Norfolks enter German front line. Zero plus 20, 1st Cheshires and 1st Norfolks enter BLACK Line. Zero plus 50, 16th R.Warwicks (right) 1st Bedfordshire Regt. (left) leave Zero plus 53, "A" and "B" seize their 1st. objective Zero plus 56, "A" and "B" seize their 2nd. objective Zero plus 59, "C" and "D" seize their 1st. objective. Zero plus 62, "C" and "D" seize their 2nd. objective. (GREEN Line.)

7. CONSOLIDATION. The first half hour of consolidation is worth 2 later. Line of Resistance - GREEN Objective, to be dug "C" and "D". Immediate Support - Final objective of "A" and "B", (2nd. trench from BLACK Line.) by 1 platoon of same. Communication trenches - from line of resistance to Immediate Support, by 1 platoon of "A" and "B". Reserve Line - (1st. trench after BLACK Line.) Company Headquarter Lewis Gun sections.

8. ARTILLERY. Vide Time Table. FOLLOW the Barrage.

9. MACHINE GUNS. "B" Section, 15th. M.G.C., will co-operate One sub-section will follow last line of "D" (left) Company. O.C. "D" will assist in covering this, while getting into final positions in GREEN objective, with Lewis Guns.

10. CARRYING PARTIES. One platoon of "A" and "B" after the last line has gone over, will carry wire, ammunition and bombs, water and rations to front line Companies.

11. PRIOSONERS. The 1st. Bedfordshire Regiment will find a guard of 1 N.C.O. and 10 men at GRAND RULLECOURT CHURCH.

12. SIGNALS. (i) The Battalion Signalling Officer will arrange communication, (a) From and to Battalion Headquarters at O.9.a.8/4. (b) From advanced Battalion to advanced Brigade Headquarters. Detailed instructions issued separately. (ii) One Very Light will be fired by "C" and "D" only on reaching GREEN objective. (iii) Flares to be lit on being called for by Contact Aeroplane at about half hour to one hour after zero.

13. MEDICAL ARRANGEMENTS. Regimental Aid posts at GRAND RULLECOURT, O.9.a. and b.

14. DUMPS. Battalion Dump - close to BLACK Line, (after capture) near centre of Battalion. Double Company Dumps on dividing line on 2nd. objective of each Company.

15. SUPPLIES. Double refill on zero day. Rations on zero day will be preserved rations.

16. WATER. (a) Water bottles to be filled. (b) Water Carts to be in readiness. (c) 4 50-gallon tanks at O.9.b.2/3, but these will not be used unless absolutely necessary. (d) Wells at O.9.d.9/5. and O.9.b.2/2.

17. DRESS. Fighting dress as detailed.

18. TOOLS. In ratio of 3 shovels to 1 pick.

19. ASSEMBLY TRENCHES. West of a North and South line through GRAND RULLECOURT CHURCH.

20. REPORTS. Combined sketch map and message card issued to all Officers.

21. WATCHES. To be synchronized at a time to be stated when zero hour and day are given.

Amendments to Operation Order No. "X", dated 19/9/17. 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Para.

1. This should read: - "from I.33.c.9/6 to I.33.c.0/9". Para. 2. After the words "GREEN Objective" read - I.33.c.9/6 to I.33.c.0/9. Para. 7. This should read - Line of resistance - Green Objective to be dug by "C" and "D". Also, After the words "Reserve line" read - (1st. trench after BLACK Line) Company Headquarter Lewis Gun Sections. Para. 15. The 2nd. sentence should read - rations on zero day will be preserved rations.

MARCH ORDER No. 108 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Reference: Map Sheet 51.c. 1/40,000 and Hazebrouck 5a. September 23rd. 1917

1. (a) On the 24th. September, the Battalion will move to the new area. (b) The Battalion will march off according to March Table, (attached) Parade in Mass (less "A" Company) in Battalion Parade ground, at 2-45 p.m. Order of March: - Drums. Headquarters. "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. The Transport will move behind the Battalion (c) The Battalion will march to TINCQUES, and will entrain there for ST. OMER. (d) 2/Lieut. F.L.Ray will guide the Battalion and report to R.T.O. at TINCQUES 1/4 of an hour before the Battalion arrives. He will be accompanied by a Signaller. They will ride bicycles. 2/Lieut. S.Allport will guide "A" Company.

2. DETRAINING PARTY. O.C. "A" Coy. will detail 2 Officers, 10 N.C.O's. and 90 men at the detraining station. (St. Omer) They will remain on duty till detrainment of all troops arriving at this station is completed. They will report to the R.T.O. immediately upon arrival. For orders for march, see Table.

3. THE "CROCKS". The "Crocks" under 2/Lieut. S.Allport will start with "A" Coy. If they survive march with the Company they will get tea at 16-30, if not, they must wait for Battalion at 20-30. No one will be taken on Transport and all "Crocks" will be brought over in a formed body.

4. BILLETING PARTY. 2/Lieut. H.J.Everett, M.C.4 C.Q.M.Sgts. and Pte. Bear will proceed by the first train, marching with "A" Coy. and on their arrival at St.Omer, will report to the A/Staff Captain, when particulars re billeting will be handed to them.

5. RATIONS. Rations for the 25th. and the unexpended portion of the 24th. for tea, will be carried by the men, and they must not rely upon anything else. A meal will be served when the Battalion reaches TINCQUES.

6. OFFICERS KITS. Officers kits and Mess kits will be at Quartermaster's Stores at 11 a.m. Lewis Guns will also be packed on the limbers by 11 a.m.

7. CERTIFICATES. O.C. Companies will render a certificate to Orderly Room before marching off, certifying that billets are in a clean and sanitary condition.

8. WATER. Water Carts and Water Bottles will be entrained full. Horses will be watered shortly before entrainment.

9.SANITATION. O.C. Companies will be responsible that the rendezvous prior to entrainment is left in a clean and sanitary condition. Temporary latrines will be dug.

10. TRANSPORT. Baggage and Supply Wagons will be entrained with the Units. Supply Wagons will be entrained filled. Breast Ropes for horses must be provided. One breast rope or two head ropes for four horses.

11. ENTRAINMENT Transport will entrain 3 hours before train leaves. The Battalion will entrain 1 hours before train leaves.

12. DISCIPLINE. A.R.O. No. 1374. (a) No man is to travel on the top of, or on the steps of a vehicle. (b) No Officer or man is allowed to travel on the engine, or in the compartment or brake van set apart for the railway staff. (c) No man is allowed to leave the train at any but the authorised stopping places, and only then on the order being given by the O.C. train, (d) No beer, wine or spirits will be allowed on the train. (e) Any man left behind at a station will report at once to the R.T.O. (f) When the train is moving all carriage doors must be kept closed. (g) Iron ration is on no account to be touched. (h) Under no circumstances are rations, (drawn by troops for subsistence during the journey) to be destroyed, thrown away, or given away. (i) All station refreshment rooms, and buffets are out of bounds to all ranks. (j) Bottles and other articles are not to be thrown out of the windows. Any rubbish should be put under the seat. (k) No braziers or fires whatever are allowed in, or hanging from, vehicles occupied by troops. (l) No British Officer, soldier or civilian is allowed to join the train without the authority, in writing, of the R.T.O. (m) In trucks, carrying horses, the door to the right, when facing in the direction the train is moving, must always be kept closed. These orders are to be brought to the notice of all ranks on every occasion before proceeding by train.

13. MARCH DISCIPLINE. The strictest march discipline will be observed. ten minutes half before each hour, except after the third march, when there will be half an hours rest. Leading Company becomes last after each halt, and outside files to change with inside files. No water to be drunk before the third halt.

1ST BATTN. THE BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT MARCH TABLE SEPTEMBER 24th 1917

 A Coy Breakfast 7.30 Dinner 11.0 Parade 12.0 Tea 16.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining 16.30 Time for Entrainment 18.40 Time of Departure 19.40 Train No. 3 March No. T.60 Serial No. 523d Destination Saint Omer for Serques. - Cooker and Team of A Coy. Breakfast 7.30 Dinner 11.0 Parade 12.0 Tea 16.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining 16.30 Time for Entrainment 16.40 Time of Departure 19.40 Train No. 3 March No. T.60 Serial No. 523d Destination Saint Omer for Serques. - The "Crocks" Breakfast 7.30 Dinner 11.0 Parade 12.0 Meal 16.30 or 20.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining ? Time for Entrainment 22.40 Time of Departure 23.40 Train No. 6 March No. T.64 Serial No. 523 Destination Saint Omer for Serques. - H.Q. Breakfast 8.0 Dinner 1.30 Parade 15.0 Tea 20.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining 20.0 Time for Entrainment 22.40 Time of Departure 23.40 Train No. 6 March No. T.64 Serial No. 523 Destination Saint Omer for Serques. for Serques. - B Coy. Breakfast 8.0 Dinner 1.30 Parade 15.0 Tea 20.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining 20.0 Time for Entrainment 22.40 Time of Departure 23.40 Train No. 6 March No. T.64 Serial No. 523 Destination Saint Omer for Serques. for Serques. - C Coy. Breakfast 8.0 Dinner 1.30 Parade 15.0 Tea 20.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining 20.0 Time for Entrainment 22.40 Time of Departure 23.40 Train No. 6 March No. T.64 Serial No. 523 Destination Saint Omer for Serques. for Serques. - D Coy. Breakfast 8.0 Dinner 1.30 Parade 15.0 Tea 20.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining 20.0 Time for Entrainment 22.40 Time of Departure 23.40 Train No. 6 March No. T.64 Serial No. 523 Destination Saint Omer for Serques. for Serques. - Transport Breakfast 8.0 Dinner 1.30 Parade 15.0 Tea 21.30 Approximate Time of Arrival at Rendezvous for Entraining 20.0 Time for Entrainment 20.40 Time of Departure 23.40 Train No. 6 March No. T.64 Serial No. 523 Destination Saint Omer for Serques. for Serques.