The Bedfordshire Regiment in the Great War
1917 War Diary appendices
[Note that all remarks in squared brackets are my own additions and not part of the original text]
February
1917
Appendix
VII
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. Millais [Geoffrey de Carteret MILLAIS] organised
a bombing party and kept them out of the Strong Point. Sergeant
Groom [16454 Frederick GROOM] was killed here. At the
same time 2nd
Lieut. A.A.Creasey [Arthur Andrew CREASEY] mounted a Lewis
Gun at the junction of
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 2nd
Lieut. A.A.Creasey [Arthur Andrew CREASEY] and
Lieut.
G de C. Millais [Geoffrey de Carteret 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
[Francis Noel BUTLER], Lieut-Colonel. Commanding 1st Battalion,
Bedfordshire Regiment. 17th February 1917.
March
1917.
Appendix
[not numbered]
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
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.
XI
Corps wire begins. aaa
The
Corps Commander wishes his congratulations conveyed to General TURNER
and to O.C. 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment on the successful way
in which the Battalion dealt with hostile raid last night (Mar 16/17th).
From
15th Infantry Brigade.
April
1917
Appendix
XII
2.
POSITION. 15th Infantry Brigade will attack on the right. 95th
Infantry Brigade will attack on the left. 15th Infantry Brigade
will attack with first Battalion Norfolk Regiment and 1st Battalion
Bedfordshire Regiment on the left. (95th Infantry Brigade on
the left of 1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment.)
3.
BOUNDARIES. 1st 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. 1st Objective T.1.b.10/10 to T.1.b.0/6 thence to
N.31.c.3/1. 2nd 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 (1st objective) from Zero plus 10 to Zero plus 14. About
100 yards (1st 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.
7.
DETAILED METHOD. From 30 yards our side of Outpost Line.
A
Company. 1st 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. 2nd 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. 3rd 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. 4th platoon will support the 3rd
and act as Moppers Up for the whole company. Touch must be kept with the
1st Norfolk Regiment on the right and the whole triangle including
junction of CYRIL TRENCH taken.
B
Company. Right on LENS –
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 15th 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. 16th 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. [Allan Oswald Rufus BEALE, MBE, MC, Croix
de Guerre], 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.
Report
on action at La Coulotte.
(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 1st 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
7.05am.
Touch with NORFOLKS reported.
7.55amj.
Right 2nd 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 [Robert Moore 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 1st
German line and make strenuous efforts to get in touch with “B”
and “D” .
11.05am.
Lt. Woodford [Arthur Francis WOODFORD] wounded, reported
that “B” and “D” took the German 2nd
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 [Charles Alan Smith MORRIS] O.C. B Company
was killed in rallying his men to make a gallant attack on machine guns,
holding up their advance from 2nd 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. Everett M.C. [Horace
John EVERETT, 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 [Horace
John 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 2nd
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
[Percy Reginald WORRALL, DSO, MC]
, Lt.Colonel
commanding 1st 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 23rd 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 23rd 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 23rd 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
During
the action at LA COULOTTE on the 23rd 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 23rd 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 23rd inst. After being wounded
in the stomach, went into the German 2nd 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 23rd 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 23rd 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 23rd 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 23rd. 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 23rd 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 23rd 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 23rd 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 23rd 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
23rd 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 23rd 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
26th 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. [William Stuart CHIRNSIDE MC & Bar] 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. [William Stuart CHIRNSIDE MC & Bar] 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. [William Stuart CHIRNSIDE MC & Bar]. "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.
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 [Hugh Armine Wodehouse PEARSE, MC] - 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 [Hugh Armine Wodehouse PEARSE, MC]
- 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. [William
Stuart CHIRNSIDE MC & Bar] 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
[Ernest Frederick 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 [Ernest Frederick 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
[Geoffrey de Carteret MILLAIS] at ECURIE WOOD CAMP at 2 p.m.
C.Q.M.Sgt's and Sgt. C.Healey [12056 Cyril 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 Captain
Chirnside, M.C.
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 [Harold Henry REYNOLDS],
2nd
Lieut.R.G.Hare
[Robert
Craigh HARE],
2nd
Lieut.Laughton [Joseph
Thornton LAUGHTON],
Sgt.Orchard
[16424
George 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
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.
August
1917
OPERATION
ORDER No.99 FANTAN Map Reference, SUGAR FACTORY August 2nd. 1917.
1. MOVE The Battalion will be relieved by FANFARE to-morrow evening Aug. 3rd. On completion of relief, Battalion will withdraw into RED Line at present occupied by FANFARE and will be in Brigade support.
2. RELIEF. "C" Coy. FANFARE will relieve "C" Coy. FANTAN, Right Front. "A" Coy. FANFARE will relieve "A" Coy. FANTAN, Right Support. "D" Coy. FANFARE will relieve "B" Coy. FANTAN, Left Front "B" Coy. FANFARE wil relieve "D" Coy. FANTAN Left Support. N.B. FANFARE are organised with 2 platoons per Company.
3. GUIDES. One per platoon, and one for Battalion Headquarters, (i.e. 9 in all) will meet FANFARE at 5 p.m. at junction of TOMMY and OLD KENT Road. ROUTE OLD KENT Road and W. Trench Companies of FANFARE will arrive at Junction of TOMMY and OLD KENT Road at 5 minutes interval between platoons, in the following order 1. "C" Coy. Right Front 2. "D" Coy. Left Front 3. "A" Coy. Right Support 4. "B" Coy. Left Support 5. Battalion Headquarters.
4. On Completion of relief, Companies will withdraw to RED Line and take over from their opposite letter Companies. Approximate positions will be: - Battalion Headquarters and "D" Coy. in OUSE SIDING. "C" Coy. from Battalion Headquarters to TOMMY. "A" and "B" Coy's. N.of TOMMY towards SUGAR FACTORY. "A" and "C" Company will share a Company Headquarters. ROUTE "A" and "C" Coy's. will withdraw via KINGS STREET, Z Trench and TOMMY "B" and "D" Companies via SEVERN ALLEY, ARLEUX LOOP, W Trench and TOMMY.
5. RELIEF COMPLETE will be reported by Fullerphone using code message, "A" Coy. "Whale oil required." "B" Coy. "No. 30069 Pte. BARNES." "C" Coy. "Water received." "D" Coy. "No. 60078 Pte. JONES." Companies will report arrival in the RED Line by Runner, stating their exact dispositions.
6. ALL S.A.A. etc., and Trench stores will be handed over, and receipts obtained. Lists of stores to be handed over will reach Battalion H.Q. by 12 noon Aug.3rd.
7. RATIONS will come up to Battalion Headquarters each night. Each Company will detail their own ration party. ALL Camp kettles must be at this point by 9-30 p.m. to fill up from Water Carts.
8.
ADVANCE PARTY. One Officer per Company and Lieut
G. de C.Millais [Geoffrey de Carteret MILLIAS] for Headquarters,
one N.C.O.per platoon and two for Battalion Headquarters, will go down
to RED Line to-morrow morning and take over all stores, work, etc.,
They will return to their Companies and act as guides when the Battalion
withdraws after relief.
OPERATION
ORDER No.100 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Map Reference:
51.B. N.W. 1/10,000 August 8th. 1917.
1. RELIEF. The Battalion will be relieved by the 1st. D.C.L.I. Regt. in the afternoon of the 9th. inst. commencing at 3-30 p.m. according to table as under: - "D" Coy. 1st Bedfordshire Regt. will be relieved by "B" Coy. D.C.L.I. "C" Coy. 1st Bedfordshire Regt. will be relieved by "C" Coy. D.C.L.I. "A" Coy. 1st Bedfordshire Regt. will be relieved by "A" Coy. D.C.L.I. "B" Coy. 1st Bedfordshire Regt. will be relieved by "D" Coy. D.C.L.I.
2. GUIDES. 1 guide per platoon and one for Battalion H.Q. will meet Coy's. and Battalion H.Q. at junction of TOMMY and RED Line at 3-30 p.m.
3. WITHDRAWAL. On completion of relief, (i) "A" Coy. will withdraw to WILLERVAL SOUTH, and take over lines occupied by 1st. East Surrey's. "C" Coy. will take over lines held by Coy. of 1st. East Surrey's in SUGAR POST. All other details will be arranged by O.C. Coy's. concerned. (ii) "B" and "D" Coy's. and Battalion H.Q. will withdraw to KITCHENER Camp (old Camp on road.)
4. WORK. (i) "A" and "C" Coy's. will carry on the wiring under 59 Coy. R.E. as arranged with 1st. East Surrey's. "B" and "D" Coy's. will hand over all their wire cutters, (Hand) to "A" and "C", and obtain receipts for same. Quartermaster will send up any wiring gloves that he has on hand. Staff Captain has been asked to supply 20 extra pairs. (ii) "D" Coy. will supply one Officer (2/Lieut.H.C.Loe Harold Vharles LOE, MC) and 40 O.R's. to work on shelters in RED Line, under 59th. Field Coy. R.E. RENDEZVOUS - B.19.b.15/60, at 9 a.m. on the 10th. inst. Party will be accommodated by 59 Coy. R.E. 2/Lieut.H.C.Loe [Harold Vharles LOE, MC] will make necessary arrangements with Quartermsater for rations, etc., also accommodation. a. (iii) "B" Coy. will supply one Officer and 20 O.R's. by day and night, for work on roads under Staff Captain. Further orders will be issued when received. b. "B" Coy. will supply 20 O.R's. for work on Officers Club ECURIE, daily at 9 a.m. commencing 10th inst.
5.
TRANSPORT. (i) Rations for "A" and "C" Coy's. will be sent up each night
by light railway to point where SUGAR Post trench meets railway line
at about E.10.d.2/2. Water will be sent up by water Cart at same place.
R.S.M. will arrange for all petrol cans over Regimental establishment
to be handed over to "A" and "C" Coy's. (ii) LEWIS GUNS and magazines
of "B" and "D" will be brought to Battalion H.Q. at 3 p.m. on the 9th
inst. and one L.G. from each Coy. will remain with them until the Transport
arrives to take them back. (iii) Regimental Petrol cans belonging to
"B" and "D" Coy's. will also be taken to Battalion H.Q. at 3 p.m. on
the 9th. inst. also H.Q., "B" and "D" Coy's. Mess boxes, and Orderly
Room boxes. R.S.M. will arrange for a Guard to be put over same until
Transport limbers arrive to take them back. "A" and "C" will keep their
Regtl. petrol cans and be responsible for same. (iv) All Cooks materials
except those required for "A" and "C" Coy's. will be collected and taken
at same time. (v) Sgt. Cook will arrange for a sufficient number of
Cooks to proceed to Transport lines to-night 8th. inst. to have teas
ready for H.Q., and "B" and "D" Coy's. on arrival in KITCHENER Camp.
(vi) Officers chargers for Battalion H.Q. and "B" and "D" Coy's. to
be at top of TOMMY by 5-30 p.m. (vii) Packs of "A" and "C" Coy's. will
be brought up on Transport to-night. These two Coy's. will have a Guard
each at Battalion H.Q. at 9-30 p.m. to-night to look after these until
they can be sorted out. (viii) Maltese Cart will come up for Medical
Officers material. N.B. Coy's are reminded to bring back all Canvas
Buckets.
OPERATION
ORDER No.101 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment August 11th. 1917
1. An inter-Company relief will take place to-morrow the 12th inst.
2. "A" and "C" Companies will withdraw to KITCHENER Camp and will leave their present positions at 8-30 a.m. in order to arrive in Camp by 12 noon. "A" Coy. moving via TIRED ALLEY and "C" Coy. via TOMMY.
3. Dinners will be at 12 noon.
4. "B" and "D" Coy's. will move up to the trenches at present occupied by "A" and "C" as soon as dinners are over. "B" Coy. to take up "A" Coy's. present position. "D" Coy. to take up "C" Coy's. present position.
5. An advanced party consisting of 1 Officer per Coy. and 1 N.C.O. per platoon, each from "B" and "D" Coy's. will parade under the Senior Officer at 5 p.m. this evening, and proceed to take over work and trenches from "A" and "C" Coy's. They will also take over petrol cans and be responsible for same. "A" and "C" Coy's. will send a similar party to take over work at KITCHENER Camp on receipt of this order.
6. The Quartermaster will arrange to send "A" and "C" Coy's. Breakfast Ration only up to the trenches to-night, the remainder will be taken over by the Sergt. Cook at Battalion Headquarters, who will make arrangements to have dinners for "A" and "C" Coy's. on arrival.
7. The water Cart will proceed as usual to-night.
8. "A" and "C" Coy's. Officers chargers will be at the top of TIRED and TOMMY ALLEY respectively by 10 a.m.
9. "B" and "D" Coy's. will hand in all dirty shirts and pants before moving off. Packs will not be carried, but must be sent to Transport before moving off.
10.
Baths are allotted to "A" and "C" Coy's. as follows: - For to-morrow
the 12th inst. 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. "A" Coy. 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. "C" Coy.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 102 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Reference Map
- France 51.B. N.W. 1/20,000 August 14th. 1917
1. On the morning of the 15th. August 1917, the Battalion will exchange Camps with 1st. Norfolk Regiment. Battalion will be clear of present Camp by 11 a.m.
2. Headquarters, "A" and "C" Companies will march off as under: - 10 a.m. Headquarters 10-5 a.m. No.1 Platoon 10-10 a.m. No.2 Platoon "A" Coy. 10-15 a.m. No. 3 Platoon 10-20 a.m. No. 4 Platoon 10-25 a.m. No.9 Platoon 10-30 a.m. No.10 Platoon "C" Coy. 10-35 a.m. No.11 Platoon 10-40 a.m. No.12 Platoon
3. "B" and "D" Companies will leave their present lines at 8 a.m. 15th. inst. with 5 minutes interval between platoons. "D" Coy. via TOMMY. "B" Coy. via TIRED. Lewis Gun Limbers will meet Companies at end of TOMMY 8-45 a.m. "B" Coy. Lewis Guns will be at this point and meet them. One Officer and 4 N.C.O's. per Company of "B" and "D" will remain in trenches until arrival of "C" and "D" Coy's. 1st. Norfolk Regiment and will hand over accommodation, etc., O.C. 1st. Norfolks has arranged that "C" Coy. 1st. Norfolks will take over WILLERVAL S. "D" Coy. 1st. Norfolks will take over SUGAR POST. One guide of "B" Coy. 1st. Bedfordshire Regiment will meet "C" Coy. 1st Norfolks where TOMMY ALLEY cuts Railway. (TUNNEL DUMP). at 10 am. These guides will be found from handing over party. B & D will withdraw to Ecurie Wood
4. ADMINISTRATIVE.
1. 2/Lieut. E.I.F.Nailer [Edgar Ivan Fitzroy NAILER] and one N.C.O. per Company ("B" and "D" included) and one N.C.O. for Headquarters, will meet the Quartermaster at ECURIE WOOD Huts at 9-30 a.m. to-morrow, to take over new Camp.
2. TRANSPORT Officer will arrange to have all Transport etc., clear of Kitchener Camp by 10 a.m. Officers valises will be ready for loading at 9-30 a.m. also Mess Kit.
3. DINNERS at 12-30 p.m. in ECURIE WOOD Huts for whole Battalion.
4. ALL DIXIES and Cooks material, Mess Boxes, Petrol Cans, etc., of "B" and "D" Coy's. will be loaded on Ration Limbers to-night by 12 midnight. Tea and Sugar will be issued to the men. One limber will have to remain at Ration Dump for this purpose.
5.
Men of "B" and "D" will find their waterbottles so that petrol cans
can be returned
TRAINING
PROGRAMME.
Wednesday
August 15th. Move to ECURIE WOOD CAMP.
Thursday
August 16th. Early Breakfasts. March to vicinity of BRUNEHAUT FARM.
Practice attack from 8-30 a.m. 9-15 p.m. Timed march in gas masks.
Friday
August 17th. 8-30 a.m. to 9-30 a.m. Battalion Drill. 9-30 a.m. t o10-30
a.m. "Smoke Tactics" 10-30 a.m. to 12-30 p.m. Companies at disposal
of Company Officers for both Administration and Training.
Saturday
August 18th. Baths allotted. Companies at disposal of Company Officers
for Specialist training. 6-0 p.m. March to BRAY RANGE.
Sunday
August 19th. Musketry on BRAY RANGE. One hour of Battalion Drill.
Monday
August 20th. Musketry on BRAY RANGE. Return to ECURIE WOOD.
Tuesday
August 21st. Return to Line.
It
will be noted that there will be only 2 clear days at ECURIE WOOD. As
regards Recreational Programme during these days, there will be Musketry
(Voluntary Competitions, Pool Bull, etc.) from 2-0 p.m. to 7-0 p.m.
and football and cricket by platoons, and at least one concert. The
Battalion Patrols will carry out an independent programme as attached.
Battalion Signallers are also having a special course. Half an hours
Musketry will be done each day. Musketry programme attached.
14/8/17
MUSKETRY PROGRAMME at ECURIE WOOD Camp Range, (30 yards). August 15-16-17th.
1917
August
15th. (Wednesday) Pool Bull from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Entrance Fee - Officers,
- 1 Franc O.R's. - 1 Penny. Revolver Competition, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Officers and No's. 1 and 2 Lewis Gun Teams. Entrance Fee - Officers
- 1 Franc. To be divided in prizes for the best shots of Nos. 1 and
2 Lewis Gun Teams. 6 shots each hand, deliberate.
August
16th. (Thursday) Section in the Defence. Comprising One Section Commander
and 8 Other Ranks. Conditions. Section to be formed up in trench, rifles
loaded, bayonets fixed, section to be under cover, with the exception
of one observer. 1. Targets suddenly appear, Section Commander opens
fire. After exposure, Section Commander becomes a casualty, next senior
takes charge. 2. As in 1. 3. As in 1. Three exposures each of 30 seconds,
supposed to represent an enemy advancing about 30 yards. Points awarded
as follows: - Method of giving fire orders. Kind of fire ordered. Fire
discipline. Number of hits obtained. Section Commander may be either
Sergt. or Cpl. Other Ranks - Cpl. or under.
August
17th. (Friday) Rapid fire Competition. Time allowed - one minute. Number
of rounds - 15. Points as in Practice 22, Table B. Musketry Reg. Part
2. 1 point allowed for every round not fired, providing it is either
in the rifle, or the pouch. (not on the ground.) This would impress
on the men the importance of loading carefully and cleanly
MUSKETRY
PROGRAMME at BRAY RANGE August 19th. and 20th. 1917 Sunday August 19th.
The Range will be allotted to Companies as under: -
"A" and "B" Companies7 to 10 a.m.
"C" and "D" Companies10 to 1 p.m.
PRACTICES.
(1) Grouping Practice. 5 rounds. 100 yards.
(2) Application Practice. 10 rounds. 100 yards. 2 to 4 p.m. Lewis Gun Practice. Pool Bull, and if possible,
SNAP SHOOTING. Entrance Fee - Officers One Franc. O.R's. One penny. ------------------------------------------------------------------
"C" and "D" Companies 7 to 10 a.m.
"A" and "B" Companies10 to 1 p.m.
PRACTICES.
(1) Application practice. 10 rounds. 200 yards.
(2) Rapid practice. 15 rounds. 200 yards.
2 to 4 p.m. Pool Bull. Entrance Fee - Officers One Franc O.R's. One penny. Points as in Practice 22, Table B. Musketry Reg. Part II. 1915. 17/8/17
OPERATION
ORDER No. 103 1st. Battalion the Bedfordshire Regiment. August 20th.
1917
1. To-morrow the 21st. inst. the Battalion will relieve the 1st D.C.L.I. in left sub-sector of Brigade front.
2. Relief will be carried out in accordance with table: - Coy. Leave Camp at. Section of line. "B" 12-30 noon Left Front "C" 12-50 p.m. Right Front "D" 1-10 p.m. Left Support "A" 1-30 p.m. Right Support H.Q. 1-50 p.m. 5 minutes interval must be maintained between platoons.
3. Relief messages will be reported by wire using code message: - "B" Coy. - "No stores received." "C" Coy. - "No.6347 Pte. Smith." "D" Coy. - No.41009 Cpl. Boys." "A" Coy. - "No money required."
4. Prepared S.O.S. messages will be carried by all Officers, to L.F. 13. - S.O.S., C.2.
5. Advance parties of one Officer per Coy. and one N.C.O. per platoon, and Signalling Officer and one N.C.O. for Battalion Headquarters will proceed in to trenches in the morning, and take over all stores, maps, work in progress, etc.
6.
TRANSPORT. 1. Lewis Gun limbers will go as far as top of TOMMY, and
with their Coy's. Signalling Kit, and sufficient camp kettles will be
taken on these limbers to give the men teas on arrival in trenches.
2.
Water Carts will come up full, and be emptied into the tanks in MG TRENCH
and petrol cans. Dixies will be filled from this point. Transport Officer
will make all other arrangements.
OPERATION ORDER No.104. 1st. Battalion "Cackle" August 26th. 1917.
1.
The Battalion will be relieved by "CHEESE" to-morrow, the 27th. inst.
commencing about 2 p.m.
2.
O.C., "CHEESE" has arranged for: - "C" Coy. "CHEESE" to relieve "A" Coy.
in Right Front. "A" Coy. "CHEESE" to relieve "C" Coy. in Right Support.
"D" Coy. "CHEESE" to relieve "D" Coy. in Left Front. "B" Coy. "CHEESE"
to relieve "B" Coy. in Left Support.
3.
PRINCES Street will not be used at all on day of relief, either by in-going
or out-going troops.
4.
On completion of relief, Companies will withdraw to the VIMY-LIEVEN Line
and Tunnel. Right Companies via BABY - KINGS - Z Trench and TOMMY. Left
Companies via SEVERN - W Trench and TOMMY.
5.
O.C. "A" and "D" Companies will each leave one Officer with "CHEESE" until
dark, to shew them exactly where to carry on with the wiring.
6.
O.C. Companies will render a list of all stores, explosives, Maps, etc.,
to be handed over to Orderly Room by 9 a.m. to-morrow.
7.One
N.C.O. per platoon, and one for Battalion Headquarters, will meet Asst.
Adjt. at Battalion Headquarters at 10 a.m. to-morrow. They will proceed
to TUNNEL, and take over accommodation etc., from their opposite letter
Companies.
8.
Transport Officer will arrange to send up Mens packs and cooking materials
to TUNNEL Dump to-morrow night with Rations. The Cook Sergt. will report
to Asst. Adjt. at TUNNEL at 11 a.m. to-morrow to arrange cookhouses.
9.
Completion of relief will be reported by wire, using code message: - "A"
Coy. "No N.C.O. available". "B" Coy. No.6784 Pte. Page." "C" Coy. "5 Boxes
Mills." "D" Coy. "Allotment for Rest Camp not required".
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 [John DALTON, MC] 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 [Percy Joe Charles 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 [John Thomas DICKINSON],
and proceed to BEAUDRICOURT. 2/Lieut. J.T.Dickinson [John Thomas
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 [Frederick Lee 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 [Sidney 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 [Sidney 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. [Horace John EVERETT, MC] 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.
October
1917
OPERATION
ORDER No.109 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Reference: - HAZEBROUCK
1/100,000 October 1st. 1917
1. The 5th. Division will relieve the 23rd. Division in line on 1/2nd. and 2/3rd inst. 15th. Brigade will be in reserve.
2. Battalion will move to WESTOUTRE to-morrow, the 2nd. inst. Battalion starting point - Road Junction by Battalion and Brigade H.Q.
3. Order of march: - 1. Drums. Headquarters. "B" Coy. 2. "C" Coy.3. "D" Coy. 4. "A" Coy. Pack Animals 5. Transport. Q.M's. employ. Intervals of 100 yards between above groups will be observed. Head of column will pass starting point at 9 a.m.
4. Billeting party consisting of: - 4 C.Q.M.Sgts. 2 N.C.O's. for Headquarters. 2 O.R's. for Transport. will parade at Battalion Headquarters at 6 a.m. Further orders will be issued by Asst. Adjt.
5. Officers Kits and Mess Kits will be loaded by 7-30 a.m.
6.
Forward party. All men who Company Commanders genuinely consider unable
to march with the Battalion, will parade at Battalion Headquarters under
2/Lieut.F.A.Garwood [Frederick Arthur GARWOOD], so as to
move off at 6 a.m. In view of the short march, it should not be necessary
to send on more than 4 per Company.
OPERATION
ORDER no. 110. 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Reference Map
- France and Belgium Sheet 28. October 2nd. 1917.
1. (a) On the 3rd. inst. Battalion will move to their new position. (b) Battalion will parade opposite Battalion Headquarters in Mass at 8 a.m. Order of march: - Drums. Headquarters. "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "A" Coy. "D" Coy. 100 yards interval between Companies. (c) All Officers and Platoon Sergts going into action with Battalion will parade at Battalion Headquarters at 7-30 a.m. and proceed to MILLE KRUIZ, where a plan of operations has been made. (d) *Dumped personnel, (less Officers) will march in rear of Battalion as a Company. Dumped Officers will march with their Companies.
2. (a) Transport will be at N.4.d. (b) Dumped personnel will remain in RIDGE WOOD, N.5 central. (c) Officers valises and Mess kits will be packed at 7 a.m. Steel helmets will be worn.
3. There will be a halt near DICKEBUSCH LAKE for dinner and tea. At an hour to be notified later, the Battalion (less dumped personnel) will proceed to forward area. 4. The following Transport will accompany them:- 1. Sufficient limbers to carry cooking dixies, etc., 2. L.G. Limbers to convey all guns and necessary ammunition. 3.One limber to carry Officers light kits and Mess boxes.
4. 2 Water Carts full Q.M. will arrange sufficient Transport for Battalion rations. Water bottles must be filled before marching off after tea. All explosives, S.A.A., Sandbags etc., will be drawn from forward positions.
5. Watches will be synchronized early tomorrow morning.
6.
All Officers going into action to wear Privates uniform. * Under 2/Lt.
A.W.Rope
OPERATION
ORDER NO. 111 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Reference Map -
HAZEBROUCK 5a. 1/100,000 October 11th. 1917
1. Battalion will move to the METEREN Area to-morrow the 12th. inst.
2. Battalion will parade on ground in front of Battalion Headquarters, ready to move off at 2 p.m. Markers and Drums at 1-45 p.m. Order of march: Drums Headquarters "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. "A" Coy. Transport.
3. BILLETING. The following will meet the Asst. Adjt. at the Area Commandants Office, METEREN, at 10 a.m. to-morrow: - 2/Lieut. J.P.Kingdon [John Phillips KINGDON] All Pioneers with Handcarts and tools. 4 C.Q.M.Sgts. and 1 O.R. for Headquarters. Sgt. Howlett and 1 O.R. for Headquarters. 2 O.R. for Quartermaster's Stores and Transport. The above party will parade at Battalion Headquarters at 7-30 a.m. sharp.
4. Officers kits and mens blankets will be loaded on G.S.Wagons by 11 a.m. Officers mess kit will be loaded on Mess Cart by 1-30 p.m.
5. All men whom Company Commanders consider unfit to march with the Battalion, (length of march under 7 miles) will parade under 2/Lieut.H.J.Snapshall [sic Henry John SNASHALL, MC] and will proceed under arrangements to be notified by the 2nd. in Command. All men will be clear of their lines by 1 p.m. Company Commanders, Q.M., T.O., and R.S.M. will render certificates to the Adjutant before moving off, that lines are left absolutely clean.
6. GUIDES. Signalling Officer will arrange to reconnoitre the route to-morrow morning, so that he can report to the adjutant by 1 p.m. and guide the Battalion.
7. SICK PARADE to-morrow - 9 a.m. To-morrow morning men will spend in cleaning up. All men with long hair will have same cut. All ranks must be correctly dressed.
THURSDAY Oct. 18th.
MORNING 8-30 a.m. to 11-30 a.m. Company Commanders will impress on their Companies the points learnt on previous day of "Battalion in the attack". (NOTE- 15 minutes break, and half an hour gas drill.) 11-30 a.m. to 12-30 a.m. Battalion Drill AFTERNOON. 2-15 p.m. War Game on large model near Battalion Headquarters. "The capture of GHELUVELT". Foe [For?] all Officers and Sergeants. 3-30 p.m. GUGBY [sic] Match. Officers v Other Ranks.
FRIDAY Oct. 19th.
MORNING 8-30 a.m. to 11 a.m. As Wednesday. "Battalion in the attack". 11 a.m. to 12 noon. Lecture by Commanding Officer. 12 noon to 12-30 p.m. Gas Drill. AFTERNOON. Battalion Sports. Programme to be issued later. Company Commanders to take N.C.O's in one hours Map Reading.
SATURDAY Oct. 20th.
MORNING. 8-30 a.m. to 9-30 a.m. Battalion Drill. 9-30 a.m. to 12-30 p.m. SMOKE TACTICS and tactical exercise for as many Officers and N.C.O's. as possible. Remainder of Battalion doing P.T. Bayonet Fighting. AFTERNOON. 2-15 p.m. Cross Country Run. 5 p.m. to 7-30 p.m. Concert -----------------------------------------------------
Reference above.
1. Company Training will be done on grounds allotted to Companies by Asst. Adjt.
2. Place of Commanding Officer's parade will be notified in Battalion Orders.
3. Dress for Training - Stripped belts and bayonets, Caps, Waterproof sheets to be slung. Also rifles and P.H. Helmets.
4. In addition to above programme, all ranks, except Lewis Gunners, will do half an hours Musketry in the afternoon. Lewis Gunners will do half an hours training with the gun daily.
5. Drums will beat Retreat at 5-30 p.m. each night.
6. Signalling Officer will arrange details of Recreation and Games.
7.
Asst. Adjt. will arrange for explosives and smoke bombs.
OPERATION ORDER No. 112 1st Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Reference Maps - Sheets 27 and 28. October 20th, 1917.
1. Battalion will move to MICMAC Camp, H.34.c and d (near DICKEBUSH Lake) to-morrow 21st. Inst. Order of march: - Drums Headquarters. "D" Coy. "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "A" Coy. Transport. Q.M's. employ. Head of column to pass Q.M's. Stores at 10-30 a.m. Distance between Companies - 100 yards.
2. FORWARD Party consisting of the following will parade at Battalion Headquarters at 8 a.m. (a) BILLETING. 4 C.Q.M.Sgt's. 1 N.C.O. for Headquarters.2 O.R's. for Transport and Q.M's. employ. under Captain F.Hague [Frederick HAGUE, MC] (b) CROCKS. All men who Company Commanders consider unable to march with the Battalion under 2/Lieut. W.A.Jackson [William Arthur JACKSON], and Sgt's. Howlett, Peacock and Allison [7459 Harry ALLISON]. This party to carry cold dinners. 2/Lieut. W.A.Jackson [William Arthur JACKSON] to report to the Adjutant before moving off.
3. DRAFTS will march with their Companies. This cancels previous order.
4. DINNERS on line of march about 1 p.m. in a convenient place. TEAS on arrival. WATER CARTS to be full.
5. EXPLOSIVES to be carried on the man will be drawn at MICMAC Camp, on same scale as when Battalion last went into action on the YPRES-MENIN Road, with the following addition: 1 Smoke Rifle Grenade per Rifle Grenadier.
6. Officers kits will be ready for loading by 9 a.m. and collected by Transport Officer. Mess Kits will be sent to and loaded on Transport by 9 a.m.
7.
Officers must arrange to carry rations, etc., for lunch on Lewis Gun Limbers.
8. Blankets to be rolled and ready for loading at Q.M. Stores by 8-30
a.m.
OPERATION
ORDER BO. 113. 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Oct. 22nd 1917.
1. The Battalion will move forward to RIDGE WOOD to-day. Head of column will leave Camp at 2 p.m. Order of March: - Drums. Headquarters, "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. "A" Coy. Transport. 100 yards distance between Companies.
2. Forward party consisting of: - (a) BILLETING. 4 C.Q.M.Sgts. 1 N.C.O. for H.Q. 1 N.C.O. for Transport. (b) 2/Lieut. W.A.Jackson [William Arthur JACKSON], and all men who fell out on the line of march besides the advance party of yesterday, will parade at Battalion Headquarters, ready to move off at 10 a.m. Captain F.Hague [Frederick HAGUE, MC] and billeting party will meet Staff Captain at N.5. central at 2 p.m.
3. Blankets and Officers Kits will be rolled and ready for loading by 10-30 a.m. Also Lewis Guns, with the exception of those on Anti-Aircraft duties. Officers Mess Kits to be loaded by 1 p.m.
4. Dinners at 12 noon.
5. On the 23rd. The Battalion will move forward to STIRLING CASTLE, and be in support to 1st. Cheshire Regiment in the line. (This order to be read out to all ranks to-day.)
6. On arrival at RIDGE WOOD, Transport Officer will send to BEDFORD HOUSE and draw explosives and tools to be carried on the man. Companies will at once draw these, and have same detonated by their Company Bombers, taking necessary precautions.
7.
Advance party of One Officer for the Battalion and one N.C.O. per Company
will report to H.Q. 43rd. Brigade, at Stirling Castle, at 8 a.m. on the
23rd. Further orders will be issued later.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 114 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment Reference Map -
ZILLEBEKE 1/10,000. Oct. 23rd. 1917
1. Battalion will relieve 6th. Bn. K.O.Y.L.I. in Brigade support to-day as follows: - "A" Coy. Bedfords relieves X Coy. K.O.Y.L.I. in vicinity of CAMERON HOUSE, J.16.a. "B" Coy. Bedfords relieves W Coy. K.O.Y.L.I. in vicinity of CAMERON HOUSE, J.16.a. "C" Coy. Bedfords relieves Y Coy. K.O.Y.L.I. in vicinity of CAMERON HOUSE, J.16.a. "D" Coy. Bedfords relieves Z Coy. K.O.Y.L.I. in Stirling Castle.
2. GUIDES of K.O.Y.L.I. will meet Companies at Point where trench board track meets CORDUROY track in SANCTUARY WOOD at 4 p.m. 3 Guides per Coy. and one for Battalion Headquarters.
3. Order of March: - H.Q. "B" Coy. "C" Coy. "D" Coy. "A" Coy. Head of column to leave Camp at 2 p.m. 100 yards distance between platoons.
4. MAPS. All Maps of ZILLEBEKE and GHELUVELT to be taken up, also Message maps. In addition, all maps of K.O.Y.L.I. shewing dispositions must be taken over, also Tools, S.A.A. explosives, etc.,
5. RELIEF COMPLETE will be reported by runner. "A" Coy. will send 4 runners for this purpose, two of whom will be retained at Headquarters to act as guides.
6. LEWIS GUNS will be taken as far as SANCTUARY WOOD on pack animals, also MAGAZINES etc., They will march with their Companies. Battalion reserve Lewis Guns will join Headquarters at SANCTUARY WOOD.
7. RATIONS if arriving in time, will be issued to Battalion before moving. BARRAGE Rations and WATER will come up on Transport to-night. WATER BOTTLES must be filled just before starting. 8. "A" Coy. will carry up an issue of Solidified Alcohol. Q.M., will arrange to send up Company Cooks and CAMP KETTLES for H.Q., "B", "C" and "D" Coy's.
OPERATION ORDER NO. 115 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. October, 31st. 1917
1. The Battalion will relieve the 1st. Devonshire Regiment in Brigade Reserve at STIRLING CASTLE and TOR TOP to-morrow.
2. Battalion Headquarters and "A" and "C" Companies will go to TOR TOP, and "B" and "D" Companies will go to STIRLING CASTLE.
3. Order of march: - Headquarters. "A" Coy. "C" Coy. via OBSERVATORY RIDGE to TOR TOP "B" Coy. "D" Coy. via ZILLEBEKE CHURCH and duck-board track to STIRLING CASTLE Head of column to pass "D" Company's Headquarters at 5 p.m. Companies must parade on the road in time to move off, and must keep touch.
4. ADVANCE PARTY consisting of the following, will parade at Battalion Headquarters at 12 noon: - (1) 2/Lieut. S.H.Draper [Sydney Harold DRAPER], 2 N.C.O's. for Headquarters, Cpl. Sapsford and 3 Snipers. 2 N.C.O's. per platoon of "A" and "C". (2) 2/Lieut. V.E.Farr [Vivian Eric FARR], 2 N.C.O's per platoon for "B" and "D". This party will take over all accommodation, work, stores, explosives, etc., and meet their platoons as they come in at 7-30 p.m. as under: - H.Q., "A" and "C" - at OBSERVATORY DUMP. "B" and "D". - where duck board track leaves CORDUROY track in SANCTUARY WOOD.
5. LEWIS GUNS to be loaded on limbers by 2 p.m. One limber for "B" and "D" and one for "A" and "C" and H.Q. Officers Mess Kits will also be put on these limbers. Also Signalling Kit. These limbers will move off at 4-30 p.m. in advance of Battalion, and will go by same route as rations are taken up. All Lewis Gunners will accompany them, under Sgt. Faulder [7003 Frederick FAULDER, MM]. Also Officers servants.
6 RELIEF COMPLETE will be reported to Battalion Headquarters at TOR TOP by Runner. "B" and "D" Companies will send 4 Runners each with these messages, two of whom will be retained at Battalion Headquarters.
7. 2/Lieut. S.H.Draper [Sydney Harold DRAPER] will arrange to have one guide per platoon at corner where "B" and "D" Companies turn off to ZILLEBEKE CHURCH.
8. All men are to rub their feet with Whale Oil and change their socks first thing to-morrow morning. Dirty socks to be handed in to Q.M. One clean pair to be put in pack.
9.
Transport Officer to arrange to send up as much water as possible in petrol
cans. (NOT Regimental) Water Bottles to be filled.
November
1917
OPERATION
ORDER NO. 116 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Nov. 5th 1917
1. The Battalion will be relieved (5th. inst.) by 12th. Devonshire [sic] Regiment, (less one Coy.) and will withdraw to RIDGE WOOD. Time to be notified later.
2. All men will be dressed and ready to move out on an order from Battalion Headquarters. "B" and "D" will be warned by wire.
3. Platoons will move independently, preserving 100 yards interval.
4. If no advance party is sent up by relieving Unit, One Officer for TOR TOP, and one for STIRLING CASTLE and one N.C.O. per platoon, will be left to hand over.
5. Limbers will be at OBSERVATORY Dump at 2 p.m. All Mess and Officers Kits Camp Kettles, etc., will be at this point ready for loading, Loading parties to join Coy's.
6. Evacuation and arrival of new Unit to be reported to Battalion Headquarters at TOR TOP by Runner and wire. Message - "Rum received".
7. Horses will be at junction of road to Zillebeke Church and PLUMERS DRIVE.
8. All petrol tins must be carried out.
9. Lewis Guns and Signalling Kit will be placed on Limbers as units pass Observation Dump.
10. "B" and "D" Coy's. will use duck-board track via Zillebeke Church.
11. All S.A.A. in bandoliers and grenades to be handed over. They will be collected at Coy. Headquarters, receipts to be obtained.
12.
Hot meal on arrival. Free issue of cigarettes. Rifles to be well oiled.
Feet inspected. Casualty returns to be rendered.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 117 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Reference Maps
- GHELUVELT 1/10,000. ZILLEBEKE 1/10,000. BECELAERE Nov. 10th. 1917.
1. On the 11th. inst. the Battalion will relieve the 10th. Yorkshire Regiment as follows: - Battalion Headquarters and "C" and "D" Coy's. at CLAPHAM JUNCTION. To leave RIDGE WOOD at 2-30 p.m. and arrive at CLAPHAM JUNCTION at 5 p.m. Order of march - Headquarters, "C" and "D" Coy's. "A" and "B" Coy's. - RAILWAY DUG-OUTS, ZILLEBEKE, to leave RIDGE WOOD at 1 p.m. and arrive at ZILLEBEKE DUG-OUTS at 2-30 p.m. Order of march - "A" and "B" Coy's. Intervals of 200 yards to be observed between platoons. Lewis Guns of "C" and "D" and Signallers Kit to be taken on pack animals with Battalion Headquarters and Companies to CLAPHAM JUNCTION. Lewis Guns of "A" and "B" to go on Limber to Railway Dug-outs.
2. On the 12th. inst. Battalion will relieve the 12/13 Northumberland Fusiliers in centre sub-sector of Brigade sector as follows: - Right Front. "C" Coy. of N.F. to be relieved by "C" Coy. 1st Bedford. Regt. Left Front. "B" Coy. of N.F. to be relieved by "D" Coy. 1st Bedford. Regt. Support. "D" Coy. of N.F. to be relieved by "A" Coy. 1st Bedford. Regt. Reserve. "A" Coy. of N.F. to be relieved by "B" Coy. 1st Bedford. Regt.
3. DISPOSITIONS. RIGHT COMPANY, "C". Coy. Headquarters, J.11.c.1.4. Boundaries - J.11.c.05.40. to J.11.c.50.35. Continuous trench held by six posts including 4 Lewis Guns. Touch is to be maintained with Battalion on right, 16th. R.Warwickshire Regiment. J.16.b.65.95. by system of constant patrols. LEFT COMPANY, "D". Coy. Headquarters, J.11.c.7.8. Line of detached posts from J.11.c.50.35. to J.11.d.15.35. with one post in course of construction at J.11.d.30.50. Garrison - 64 men and 4 Lewis Guns. Touch must be maintained on left with right post of 1st. Cheshire Regt, at J.11.d.40.55. now under construction. Posts are garrisoned as follows: - No. 1. (J.11.c.65.30.) One Officer and 25 O.R's. with two Lewis Guns. No. 2. (J.11.c.85.30.) One Officer and 12 O.R's. with one Lewis Gun. No. 3. (J.11.c.05.30.) One Sergt. and 12 O.R's. with one Lewis Gun. No. 4. (J.11.c.15.35.) One Sergt. and 12 O.R's. with two Lewis Guns. No. 5. (to be established at J.11.c.15.35.) to be garrisoned by One Sergt. and 12 O.R's. and one Lewis Gun to be taken from No.4 Post. O.C. "B" Coy. will detail two Lewis Guns and teams to report to O.C. "D" Coy. to-day. (To be rationed by "D" Coy.) O.C. "A" Coy. will detail one Lewis Gun and team to report to O.C. ["C"]Coy. to-day. (to be rationed by "C" Coy.) There will be no Lewis Guns at Battalion Headquarters. SUPPORT COMPANY "A". Coy. Headquarters. J.11.c.30.55. Two platoons at J.11.c.30.55. One platoon at J.11.c.80.60. COUNTER ATTACK COMPANY "B". in MEBUA. at J.10.c.8.7. MEDICAL AID POST. J.9.d.95.95. Company Commanders can mark in their maps at Orderly Room. The line is to be taken over exactly as at present held. Great care must be taken that good communications exist between posts and neighbouring Units, both from flank to flank, and front to rear. Front Companies must connect up trenches to Battalions on their right and Left. This is the first work to be taken in hand.
4. ADVANCE PARTIES consisting of One Officer per Company and one N.C.O. and one guide per platoon, and one N.C.O. and one guide for Battalion Headquarters will report to Brigade Headquarters HOOGE CRATER at 2 p.m. on the 11th. inst. This party will obtain guides from 62nd. Brigade, at HOOGE CRATER. and proceed to the line, remain there night of 11th/12th, and thoroughly reconnoitre the line. They will also take over all Tools, Stores, etc.
5. GUIDES. For the 12th. inst. on following scale will meet Companies as under: - One Officer 1st. Bedfords per Coy. and one guide of 1st. Bedfords and one guide of Northumberland Fusiliers per platoon, and two for Battalion Headquarters, will meet Battalion Headquarters and "C" and "D" Companies at CLAPHAM JUNCTION at 4-30 p.m. Guides on same scale will meet "A" and "B" Companies at HOOGE CRATER at 5 p.m.
6. RATIONS. Rations for the 12th. to be carried on the man. Rations for the 13th. and 14th. will be issued on morning of the 12th. inst. before the Battalion moves from RAILWAT DUG-OUTS and CLAPHAM JUNCTION. CARRYING. The following party will be detailed from Companies and be accommodated in Railway Dug-outs, at ZILLEBEKE, and will be used for carrying water, rum, socks, etc., to Battalion in the line. 2/Lieut. W.A.Jackson [William Arthur JACKSON]. Sgt. from "A" Coy. 1 N.C.O. 10 O.R's. from each Company. 2/Lieut. W.A.Jackson [William Arthur JACKSON] will report to Capt. Prior, at SHRAPNEL CORNER at 10 a.m. on the 12th. inst. and arrange accommodation. he will be under direct orders of Q.M. Above details will not be taken from dumped personnel.
7.
Relief complete on 12th./13th. will be reported to Battalion Headquarters
by Runner. These runners will remain at Battalion Headquarters and act
as guides for Headquarter Officers etc.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 118 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. Reference - Map.
GHELUVELT, 1/10,000. Nov. 14th. 1917.
1. On the 15th/16th. the Brigade will be relieved by 1st. and 4th. Battn's. of the N.Z., R.B. FANTAN will be relieved by one Company 1st Battn. and 2 1/2 coy's. of 4th. Battn. N.Z., R.B. in accordance with attached relief table. [not attached].
2. GUIDES will be supplied by FANTAN according to table attached (a) Each guide is to have written slip shewing from which platoon and Company he comes from and also the Coy. and Battn. he is guiding in. (b) The 2 guides per platoon who reconnoitred the tracks to-day will be those detailed. (c) Guides must arrive punctually at Rendezvous.
3. STORES. All Tools, S.A.A. Bombs, S.O.S., V.P.A., (less 59 rounds per man) will be collected in POST Dumps and handed over to relieving Unit. Disposition Maps, Defence Schemes, work in hand, Intelligence, etc., will be carefully handed over. Lists of all Stores, Maps, etc. to be handed over will be made out in triplicate - one copy to reach Battalion Headquarters by 12 noon the 15th. inst.
4. RELIEF COMPLETE will be reported by wire as under: - "D" Coy. NO WHISKY. "C" Coy. RUM. "A" Coy. WATER. "B" Coy. WHALE OIL. In addition, each Company Commander will report by runner to 2/Lieut. S.H.Draper [Sydney Harold DRAPER] on their way out at Battalion Signalling Station. 2/Lieut. S.H.Draper [Sydney Harold DRAPER] will post an N.C.O. and 2 men on duck board tracks to collect these reports. He will also report relief complete for whole Battalion to Battalion Headquarters (BOTTE) by wire, "O.K", (or by lamp) and also to O.C., 4th. Battn. N.Z., R.B. who will be at JERK HOUSE.
5.
WITHDRAWAL. Companies and platoons must keep closed up when withdrawing.
ALL MEN are to be informed of the route to SHRAPNEL CORNER and that they
are boarding 'Busses there and proceeding to WESTOUTRE. Companies and
platoons will report present or otherwise to 2/Lieut. W.A.Jackson [William
Arthur JACKSON] at SHRAPNEL CORNER so that he
can allot accommodation for stragglers. NOTE. - Lewis Gun Magazines and
dirty socks must be brought out.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 119 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. November 27th.
1917.
1. Battalion will entrain at ANVIN Station. date and time to be notified later.
2. TRAINS. There are two trains at disposal of 1st. Bedfords. each train will consist of: - 1 First or Second Class Coach, (probably 4 Compartments) 2 Third Class Coaches (each 5 Compartments) 22 Covered Trucks. 13 Flats. 2 Brake Vans. The Battalion will be distributed as under: - (A) Train No. 20. (serial Number of Unit 523.) to convey: - Headquarters - i.e. Commanding Officer, Adjutant, Captain J.C.A.Birch, Quartermaster, 2/Lieut.H.J.Snashall [Henry John SNASHALL, MC], Transport Officer, Medical Officer, R.S.M., Headquarter Servants & Mess Staff, Sgt. Wheeler [9284 Ricard Henry WHEELER, DCM] and 4 Pioneers & Drums "B" and "D" Companies complete, one M.O. Orderly. Half Transport i.e. 2 L.G.Limbers, 1 S.A.A. Limber. 1/2 Limber Bombs 1/2 Linber Tools. 1/2 Limber Signalling. 1 Watercart 1 Cooker. 1 Cooks Wagon. 1 Baggage Wagon. 1 Supply Wagon Chargers - Officers travelling on train. (B) Train No. 25 (serial Number of Unit 523.a.) to convey: - Major W.S.Chirnside, M.C. [William Stuart CHIRNSIDE, MC & Bar] (O.C. Train) Captain S.H.Draper [Sydney Harold DRAPER]. A/Adjt. R.Q.M.S., Transport Sergt, one M.O. Orderly, "A" and "C" Companies complete. Remainder of Transport, Cpl.Belben [10137 Harry BELBEN] and 4 Pioneers N.B. ALL Headquarter employ not enumerated above, will travel with their Companies. Q.M. employ will travel with Transport. Q.M. and T.O. will forward returns having exact numbers of personnel under their Command, Horses, vehicles, travelling on each train as soon as possible.
3. R.T.O. Captain Warner, M.C. 15th. T.M.Battery is appointed A/R.T.O. ANVIN. Captain Henderson, 1st. Norfolk Regiment is appointed A/R.T.O. detraining station.
4. ENTRAINING. All animals and vehicles will arrive at the entraining Station three hours before the train is timed to start. Personnel will arrive at the entraining station one hour before the train is timed to start.
5. LOADING PARTIES. A party of 2 Officers and 100 Other Ranks from 1st. Cheshire Regiment will be detailed for loading at ANVIN. A similar party from 16th. R.Warwickshire Regiment for unloading at detraining station.
6. EQUIPMENT & RATIONS. Each man will entrain carrying full equipment, 120 Rounds S.A.A., rations for day of entrainment, iron ration, full water bottle, steel helmet, box respirator, gas helmet, and 2 blankets. All animals must have one rug.
7. FORAGE. Forage for day of entrainment will be carried in the horse trucks. Men in charge of horses will travel in the horse trucks. Supply wagons will be loaded full.
8. ANIMALS. Animals will be entrained unharnessed and rugged. Harness may be loaded under its vehicle. Canvas buckets will be carried in each horse truck. Cinders or gravel should be strewn on the floors of horse trucks, otherwise they become very slippery.
9. LENGTH OF JOURNEY. The journey will take about 5 days. Halts will be arranged for watering, feeding, washing, etc. approximately 1 hour in every 10. A list of halts will be given to the O.C. Trains by the R.T.O.
10. RATIONS. Nine days rations, in addition to those mentioned in paras. 6 and 7, will be carried in bulk for all men and animals in each train. A covered truck will be set aside for issue of rations enroute. Forage and non-perishable supplies can be loaded under vehicles. One days supplies will be on ration wagons. Nine days supplies loaded in bulk.
11. DISCIPLINE. The strictest discipline will be maintained throughout the journey. The Senior Combatant Officer will command each train, and he will appoint Orderly Officers who will take tours of duty, and will also detail a guard at each end of the train. The duties of the Orderly Officers and guards are (a) To see that no one leaves the train when it halts, unless authorised to do so at a recognised halting place by the O.C. (b) To ensure that no men ride on the steps or the tops of carriages, or climb along the train from truck to truck. There is very little clearance between the tops of trucks and tunnels. (c) To guard all stores on the train throughout the journey. (d) To watch both sides of the train when halted. Each O.C. Train will obtain from the R.T.O. before starting a copy of G.H.Q. instructions for O.C. Trains. These instructions are Secret*, and should be destroyed before detraining.
12.
ENTRAINING STATES. The O.C. of each train, or portion of a Unit entraining,
will bring with him an entraining state, in duplicate. This State will
shew strength Officers, Other Ranks, horses by tyes, vehicles by types,
the number of days rations entrained. These states will be handed over
to the Acting R.T.O. at each station. A certificate will be added to the
effect that the Unit is complete with equipment and rations. * reference
above. Each O.C. Train will detail an Orderly Officer daily. Each Company
will detail 2 guards, (1 N.C.O. and 3 men) to be on duty one on each side
of the train. They will see that above orders are strictly carried out.
OPERATION
ORDER No. 119/1 1st. Battalion The Bedfordshire Regiment. November 30th.
/17 Following amendments and alterations are made to O.O. 119, dated Nov.
27th. 1917.
1. Battalion will entrain on Dec. 2nd. at ANVIN. 1st Train No. 442 at 8-20 a.m. via ETAPLES. 2nd. Train No. 445 at 18-57 p.m. via ARRAS.
2. (A) For train in No. 20 real train No. 442. Delete name of Capt. J.C.A.Birch [James Charles Abbott BIRCH] in H.Q., and add two Orderly Room Clerks (Sgt. H.Hoar [8851 Harry Arthur HOAR] and L/C. R.Vallance.) Mess Cart. 4 Pack Animals. (B) For train No. 25 read Train No. 445.. Add two Orderly Room Clerks (L/C. S.Kingsman [3/7883 Sidney Herbert KINGSMAN] and Pte. W.Maundrell.) Maltese Cart.4 Pack Animals.
3. Breakfasts for No. 442 train will be eaten at ANVIN Station, on Dec. 2nd. Dinners for No. 445 train will be eaten at ANVIN Station on Dec. 2nd. before entraining.
4.
Two Lorries for each train will convey Blankets to the Station. Blankets
for No. 442 train will be rolled in bundles of 10, marked with wooden
label, and be ready for loading at Q.M.Stores at 2-30 a.m. on Dec. 2nd.
Blankets for No. 445 train to be at Q.M. Stores 7 a.m. on Dec. 2nd. The
blankets will be issued to the men at ANVIN before entraining, 2 per man.
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