The Bedfordshire Regiment in The Great War

The 7th Battalion in France, 1917
 
 

January 1917.

 

OPERATION ORDERS by LT.COL.G.P.MILLS COMMANDING 7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

1. MOVE The Battalion will move into the line and occupy the Left Sub Sector of the 54th Bde front relieving the 2/6th Royal Warwickshire Regiment on the night of 15/16 January 1917.

2.DISPOSITION OF COMPANIES Disposition of Companies in the Line. "A" Coy Left of Front Line "D" Coy Right of Front Line "B" Coy Left Support "C" Coy Right Support

3. RELIEF The relief will be carried out by Platoons at 5 minutes interval. The leading Platoon not to pass the junction of Pozieres-Ovillers Road before 4 p.m.

4. BUSES Companies will be taken as far as Aveluy by buses time to parade to embus will be A Co. 8.5 AM, B Co. 8.10 AM, C Coy 8.15 AM, D Coy 8.20 AM, Bn.H.Q. 8.25 pm.

5. COOKING All cooking will be done in the line at a spot known as the Gravel Pits.

6. GUIDES Guides will meet the Companies at the junction of Nab Valley and the Pozieres Road at time to be notified later.

7. TRENCH STORE LISTS Trench Store Lists will be made out on taking over, one copy to be sent to Adjutant at Battn Headquarters in Zollern Redoubt.

8. RATIONS "B" and "C" Companies will each furnish one platoon to be accommodated at the Gravel Pits for carrying food etc. to the front line Companies (only). Companies in support do their own carrying.

9. GUM BOOTS The two Companies holding the front line (A. & D) will draw a pair of Gum Boots per N.C.O. and man at Crucifix Corner any Gum Boots remaining after A & D have been supplied will be drawn by "B" and "C" Companies. These boots will be carried over the shoulder into the trenches and then taken into rear.

10. FEET CARE OF O.C. Companies will ensure that every man changes his socks once every 24 hours and that the feet are well rubbed with whale oil at least once every day.

11. WATER BOTTLES Water is a difficulty and care should be taken to see that every man arrives in the trenches with a full waterbottle.

12. LEWIS GUNS Lewis Guns will be attached to Companies in accordance with instructions issued direct to the Company Comdrs and Lewis Gun Officer.

13. MEALS Midday meal will be served to the men when they get out of the buses at AVELUY, food for 16th must be carried by every man.

14. TRANSPORT Two limbers will proceed to Aveluy to carry up Lewis Guns and Cooking Utensils from the buses forward.

15. MESS BOXES OFFICERS Officers Mess Boxes required for the trenches should be sent by the cookers to Aveluy in the morning.

(Signed) J.H.Bridcutt, Major and A/Adjt 7th (S) Bn Bedfordshire Regiment Trenches

 

OPERATION ORDERS by LT.COL.G.P.MILLS COMMANDING 7TH (S) BN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

1. MOVE The Battalion will move into trenches and occupy the Left Sub Sector of the 54th Bde front relieving the 12th Middlesex on the night 24/25 Jany 1917.

2. DISPOSITION OF COMPANIES "B" COMPANY Left of Front Line "C" COMPANY Right of Front Line "A" COMPANY Reserve Company "D" COMPANY Counter Attack Company

3. RELIEF The relief will be carried out by Platoons at 5 Minutes interval, the first Company (C) passing NAB junction R 32 b 87 at 4.30 p.m. "B" Company at 4.45 p.m. "D" Company at 5.0 p.m. "A" Company at 5.15 p.m. and thence via Gravel Pit. North of NAB junction companies will move with 150 yards between platoons.

4. COOKING All Cooking will be done at the Gravel Pit.

5. TRENCH STORES Trench Store Lists will be made out on taking over and one copy sent to Adjutant in Zollern Redoubt H.Q. on completion of relief.

6. Rations "A" Company will furnish 2 platoons to be accommodated in Gravel Pit for carrying food etc. to the front line Companies (only). Companies in Support do their own carrying.

7. CARE OF FEET O.C. Companies will ensure that every man changes his socks at least once every day and that the feet are well rubbed with whale oil at least once every day also that his feet are well oiled before leaving for the trenches.

8. Water Water is a difficulty and care must be taken to see that every man arrives in trenches with a full water bottle. Men are to be warned that under no circumstances is water from shell holes to be drunk.

9. LEWIS GUNS 2 Bn Hd Qr Lewis Guns will be attached to "C" Coy and 2 to "B" Company. Company Commanders are held responsible that the Lewis Guns for each post move up with platoon detailed for the post.

10. TRANSPORT The Qr Mr has already issued instructions direct to C.Q.M.S. regarding Kits and Blankets.

11. PACKS Packs with exception of Lewis Gunners will not be taken into trenches. W.P.Sheets and greatcoats will be worn "en banderole".

12. POSTS Men going out to relieve posts in Desire Trench must prove ready to fight at any moment, bayonets fixed, magazines charged, breech covers off etc and will be proceeded by an Advance Guard of 2 men.

13. GUIDES Platoon Guides will meet each platoon at the junction of NAB VALLEY and the Pozieres Road.

14. GUM BOOTS500 pairs Gum Boots will be collected by Quarter Master and kept by him in case they are required in trenches.

15. ADVANCE PARTY Advance Party of Coy Sergt Majors 1 N.C.O. per platoon Lewis Gun Officer. Signal Officer and battalion Sergt Major will report to 12th Middlesex Bn Hd Qrs in Zollern Redoubt at 2 p.m. 24-1-17.

16. SIGNALS Signal Section will relieve independently under orders of Signal Officer.

(signed) E.W.BENSON. LIEUT AND ADJT 7th (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

 

 

February 1917

 

OPERATION ORDERS No.48 by Lt COL G.P.MILLS COMMANDING 7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT MAP REFERENCE MAP 57 D. S.E. 9-2-17 1. MOVE

"C" Company will move forward today 9th inst to Stuff Redoubt and Hessian trench (R.21.D) to be in support to the Right flank of 12th Middlesex Regiment if necessary. The Company will temporarily be placed at the disposal of the O.C. 12th Middlesex to whom 2/Lieut Lawrence will report at once for instructions. Bn Headquarters of 12th Middlesex will be R.29.a.62.

2. RELIEF Company will move with one minute distance between platoons.

3. TRENCH STORES Trench Store Lists will be handed to Adjutant on arrival after being signed by both parties.

4. BOX RESPIRATORS Box Respirators will be worn in the "Alert" position during the relief.

5. COMPLETION OF RELIEF Completion of relief will be certified to 12th Middlesex and 7th Bedfords.

6. DRESS Battle Order, greatcoats "en banderole" water bottles filled.

7. BAGGAGE All baggage will be dumped in 2 dumps at Company Cookhouse, under directions of Quarter Master.

8. PACKS Packs & blankets will not be taken into trenches. Lewis Gunners will take packs. When packs are stacked for carriage by transport any pack not clearly marked with No, Name, Rank and Company of the man will be kept by the QrMaster & disciplinary action taken against the owner.

9. SIGNALS Signals will relieve independently.

10. BOMB BUCKETS Bomb Buckets will be drawn from Quarter Master.

(SIGNED) E.W.BENSON. LIEUT AND ADJT. 7th (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT.

 

 

April 1917

 

7th (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT 26-4-17 Order No 4

1. INTENTION The Battalion will proceed by Route March to PERNES after 1 p.m. to-day. Starting Point will be notified later. Starting Time will be notified later.

2. ORDER OF MARCH Headquarters "A" "B" Drums "C" "D". Transport will move in rear of the Battalion.

3. DRESS Full Marching Order, Steel helmets will be carried in the usual manner. i.e. on the packs.

4. MEALS DINNERS 12 noon. TEA on arrival in new area.

5. BAGGAGE All Blankets, Officers valises, Company Stores, Shops, Signalling Kit, Orderly Room Boxes etc, will be dumped at Battalion and Company Headquarters by 12-30 p.m. ready for loading. Pioneers will load the Lorries.

6. RATIONS Rations for 27th, will as far as possible be carried on the Cookers, the remainder will be dumped for conveyance on lorries.

7. BILLETS Billets, Regimental Lines to be left clean. Latrines to be disinfected, refuse removed. Certificates to this effect will be rendered before marching off.

8. SICK The Medical Officer will make arrangements for those unable to march.

(Sgd) W.J.W.COLLEY CAPT AND ADJT.

 

7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT. 7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT LENS II SCALE 1/100000. 26-4-17 Order No 5

1. INTENTION The Battalion less Transport will entrain at PERNES tomorrow at 10.35 a.m. (27-4-17). STARTING POINT. Cross Roads between Bailleul les Pernes - Aumerval. Starting Time 8-50 a.m.

2. ORDER OF MARCH Headquarters "A" "B" Drums "C" and "D"

3. DRESS Full Marching Order. Steel Helmets will be carried in the usual manner.

4. REVEILLE Reveille 6 a.m.

5. MEALS Breakfast 6.30 a.m. The unconsumed portion of the days ration will be carried on the man.

6. TRANSPORT The Transport will proceed by road under Capt.West Comdg 152nd Coy A.S.C. Order of March 54th Bde H.Q. 11th Roy Fusiliers 7th Bedfords. 6th Northants Regt Etc. Starting Time 10 a.m. Starting Point Cross Roads in centre of VALHUON (3 ½ miles S.S.W. of PERNES). Route La Thieuloye-Tincques-Arras. Baggage Lorries for blankets have been asked for on the usual scale. Refilling Point Brigade Refilling Point for 27-4-17 will be Road junction immediately W of P in PERNES at 9 a.m.

7. BAGGAGE Officers Valises Blankets, Company Stores, Shops Signalling Kit, Orderly Room Boxes etc to be dumped at same place as collected from, at 7 a.m. prompt.

8. LEWIS GUNS Lewis Gun Handcarts will accompany the Battn.

9. BILLETS Certificates to the effect that all billets, lines etc are left clean will be handed to the R.S.M. before leaving.

10. SICK PARADE Sick Parade will be at 7.30 a.m.

11. BILLETING Private W.Wall with bicycle will remain at the Mairie until the 55th Bde Advance Party arrives. He will show them the billets and will then rejoin the Battalion. He will obtain all particulars in regard to the billets before the Battalion moves.

(signed) W.J.W.COLLEY CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT. BAILLEUL les PERNES

 

7th (S) Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment 28-4-17 Order No 6.

1. INTENTION 54th infantry Brigade will relieve the 21st Infantry Brigade on the night of the 28/29th inst.

2. GUIDES Guides will report to Companies on the scale of one per platoon, company and Battalion headquarters.

3. FRONTAGE Particulars regarding the fronts to be taken over will be explained at the conference.

4. STARTING POINT Starting Point. 54th Infantry Brigade Headquarters, N 20.a.1.5. Starting Time 8.45 p.m.

5. ROUTE Infantry Track "A" Platoons to move at 100 yards interval.

6. ORDER OF MARCH Battalion Headquarters. "A" "B" "C" and "D" Companies

7. DRESS Battle Order with one blanket per man. Box Respirators will be worn in the "ALERT" Position.

8. PACKS Packs will be dumped by the cookers by 8.30 p.m. "A" Company will supply one N.C.O and "C" Company 2 men to take charge of dump. These men will have their rations issued to them by Companies.

9. CARRYING PARTY The Drummers will draw the water and having completed delivering them [sic] to Battalion Headquarters will return to Quartermaster's Stores.

(SIGNED) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT relief completed to be reported by Code "SUN". TRENCHES

 

 

May 1917

 

7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT Order No 7 MAP REFERENCE SHEET 51b. S.W. 1st May 1917

1. INTENTION The 12th Battalion Middlesex Regiment and the 7th Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment will take over the battle front from 11th Royal Fusiliers and 6th Northamptonshire Regiment on the night of 1st/2nd May 1917.

2. COMPOSITION OF COMPANIES On completion of relief the 7th Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment will be situated as follows: - 2 Companies holding front line and support line. "A" Company on Right, "D" Company on left from long sap O 31.a.8.3. inclusive to a point in present front line 200 yards S.W. of the junction of Cable trenches at O.25.D.5.0 (Now held by 2 Companies 6th Northamptonshire Regiment). 2 companies ("C" and "B") in trenches in N.29.c & d at present occupied by 2 Companies 11th Battn Royal Fusiliers. Battalion Headquarters at N 30.c.2.4. (Present Headquarters of 2 Companies Roy.Fusiliers).

3. GUIDES Relieving Companies and Battalion Headquarters will pick up one guide per platoon as they pass the Brigade Headquarters N 22.d.4.2.

4. ROUTE Infantry Track "A"

5. STARTING POINT Starting Point N.20.a.1.6. Starting Time. "A" Company 8.25 p.m. "D" Company 8.45 p.m. "C" Company 9.5 p.m. "B" Company 9.25 p.m. Bn H.Q. 9.25 p.m. with 100 yards between platoons.

6. RELIEF Completion of relief will be reported by CODE "SUN".

7. RATIONS Rations will be carried up by the transport leaving Battalion bivouac's at 8 p.m.

8. DUMPS The Battalion Lewis Gun dump ammunition and Signalling Kit will be taken up on limbers leaving Battalion bivouac's at 8 p.m. Empty Petrol tins will be taken up on limbers leaving Battalion bivouac's at 6 p.m. under the Drum Major.

9. DRESS Battle Order. Box Respirators will be worn in the "ALERT" position.

(signed) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT & ADJT. 7th (S) Battalion Bedfordshire Regt.

 

7th (S) Batt Bedfordshire Regiment Order No.8 May 2nd 1917

1. GENERAL PLAN the 7th Bedfordshire Regt with the 9th Leicesters on its right and 12th Middlesex Regt on its left. the objectives of the 7th Bedfordshire Rgt are: - 1st trench from O.33 c.7.2 to U 3.a.1.3. 2nd Line running through U 4.a.1.5. - U.4.c.3.3. the 7th Bedfordshire Regt to attack on a frontage of two companies with "A" Company on the right and "D" Company on the left, "B" Company in support and "C" Company in reserve. Boundaries between companies through O 31.b.3.6. O 31.b.9.1. O 32.c.2.6. U 3.a.4.7 and U 4.c.2.9.

2. DISTRIBUTION OF COMPANIES at ZERO HOUR "A" Company on right, "D" Company on left in 4 lines. First 2 lines not more than 100 yards forward of front trench. 3rd and 4th line in front trench. "B" Company between 1st and 2nd Trench. "C" Company behind 2nd trench.

3. ROLE OF COMPANIES "A" and "D" companies will follow the barrage starting at Zero hour and will fight their way to the first objective making strong points as per appendix 1. "B" Company will follow in close support and take up a position in the River Bed also making strong points as per appendix 1. "C" Company will be in reserve and move up to trench running through O.32 a central to O 32 c.5.2; being prepared to form defensive flanks wither to the right or to the left. At Zero plus 2 hours "A" and "D" Companies will continue to follow the barrage fighting their way to final objective and dropping points as per appendix 2. "B" Company will follow in close support and render what help is necessary and dropping points as per appendix2. "C" Company will advance to original first objective 1st and 2nd objectives to be at once consolidated.

4. M.GUN Co. One Vickers Gun will proceed with "B" Company under Capt Bull and when 1st objective is taken will take up a position at U 3.a.2.3 covering the right flank of the battalion. One gun will proceed with "C" Company under Captain Keep and when the 2nd objective is taken it will be sent forward to U.3.d.6.5.

5. T.M.BTY One Mortar with 60 rounds will be attached to the Battalion and will move with "C" Company to trench in O.32.c. taking up a position at O.32.c.7.3.

6. DUGOUT CLEARING PARTY Dugout clearing parties, 2 platoons of 11. Royal Fusiliers will be attached to the Battalion. One platoon will follow the 2nd line. 2nd platoon will follow the 4th line. 1st platoon will clear trench running from O.32.a. central to O 32.c.5.2. They will block trench at O 32.c.5.2. and cover block with their Lewis Guns. 2nd platoon will clear the Sunken road running thro O 32.central to O.32.c.7.2 and will install their Lewis guns to cover their right flank.

7. ARTILLERY BARRAGE The advance will be preceeded by a rolling barrage which will open 200 yards in front of our present front line. the rate of advance will be 100 yards in 2 minutes up to the Western outskirts of CHÉRISY thence to the 1st objective at 100 yards in 6 minutes beyond which it will rest. At Zero plus 2 hrs it will proceed to the final objective at 100 yards in 3 minutes, barrage lines and times of lifts may be seen on barrage app[endix] at Bn Hd Qrs. 60 pounder batteries will search the ground 600 yards beyond the rolling barrage for Machine Guns and other likely targets will be dealt with by Corps Heavy Artillery. the Brigade Commander will have a direct call on one 18 pounder battery to take on hostile counter-attacks or deal with enemy strong points.

8.SIGNAL COMMUNICATION See appendix 3.

9. COMMUNICATION with contact AEROPLANES Every man will carry a flare. Flares will be lit at all times when called for by the sounding of the Claxton Horn or the dropping of a white light by the aeroplane and definitely at Zero plus 1½ hrs and Zero plus 3½ hrs. Flares may only be lit by troops in the front line.

10. LIAISON OFFICER Major E.Clegg with 2 runners will report to Bde Hd Qrs N 22.d.4.2. at Zero hour.

11. MOVEMENT OF Hd Qrs Bn Hd Qrs will be situated in the front trench at Zero hour and will move into German dugouts at O.32.c.8.4 after the 1st objective had been taken. Z day. Zero hour and synchronisation of watches will be notified later.

12. ADMINISTRATION AMMUNITION Following dumps have been formed. Bde Dump N.29.c.8.9. Forward Bde Dump N.36.b central. The 2 assaulting coys will each form a small dump of S.A.A. in front line (these to be collected in surrounding trenches). As soon as possible after Zero hour these dumps will be moved forward to O 32 c.9.7. coys in 1st objective.

13. CARRYING PARTIES 2/Lieut.Piercy will undertake to supply Bombs. S.A.A. throughout the operation. The Drum Major i/c of the Drums will form a dump of water at O.32.c.9.7. as soon as possible.

14. AMM. PACK TRAIN Bde Transport Offr will be responsible for the Brigade ammunition and water supply.

15. L.G.DRUMS. Reserve drums will be dumped N.36.b central.

16. RATIONS & WATER The iron ration and unconsumed portion of the days rations will be carried on the man, All water bottles must be full at Zero hour. 2/Lieut Piercy will undertake the carrying forward f rations from Héninel. Across country track will be staked out - N.29.c.8.9. N.30.c.00. N.36.b.central N.31 central O.33.c 8.5. 2/Lieut Piercy will send back 4 guides for the ration party and will report at Bde H.Qrs N.22. d central before 6 p.m. Transport Offrs and Quarter Masters will report to Staff Captain Bde H.Qrs N 22 d central after 6 p.m. to obtain latest information with regard to the situation and also to pick up their guides. Water carts can be filled at Héninel at N.28.b central. Companies must supply rations to detached sections of M.G.Coy and T.M.Bty.

17. MEDICAL Arrangements for evacuation of wounded see appendix 4.

18. PRISONERS Bde Collecting post Cross roads N.29.b.8.0.

19. POLICE L/Cpl Sturgess and Pte Raynor will be posted at N 36.b.central to direct wounded to collecting post N 30.a.1.3. March all prisoners and direct escorts to Bde Collecting Post N.29.b.8.0., to take the Nos Ranks names and Units of all stragglers, send those who are fit back to their units, pass the remainder to the rear to the line of evacuation

(Sgd) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH BN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT.

 

APPENDIX 1

 "A" Coy Strongpoint U 2.b.10.1 L/C till Vickers gun arrives. "D" Coy Strongpoint E U.3.a.5.7. "B" Coy Strongpoint C ).32.c.9.6. O.32.d.5.4.

 

APPENDIX 2

"A" Coy Strongpoint U.3.d.6.5. "B" Coy Strongpoint U.3.a.9.8.

 

APPENDIX 3.

Signal Communication. Divided into the following headings. 1. Visual. 2. Telephone System 3. Pigeon 4. Power buzzer 5. Aeroplane Contact 6. Runners. 1. A Bn H.Q. visual post will be pushed out after the support Coy (B) to gun pit at O.31.b.8.0. for the purpose of receiving visual signals from the 4 Coys. This station will answer and in urgent cases will send messages forward. There will also be Bde visual post at O 31.b.14. When "A" and "D" Coys reach the 1st objective they will open visual communication from (roughly) U.3.a.0.7. and U 3 a 2.9. respectively. On moving forward to the final objective "A" Coy will open visual from the trees at U.3.c.9.7. and later from U 3 d 6.5. "A" Coy will man this last place with lamp during the ensuing night. These special orders will not prevent any coy from sending an urgent message by visual wherever they may be. 2. When Hd Qrs subsequently move forward lines will be laid to Coys. 3. 2 pigeons will be carried forward by "A" Coy and 2 by "B" Coy. 2 will remain with Bn H Qrs. 4. Power Buzzer set will remain at battle h.Qrs. O 31 b.0.5. during the attack. 5. No aeroplane signalling will be attempted. 6. Bde runner posts will be attached at Bn H Qrs at O.31.b.0.5. and O.31 b.3.8. When Bn H.Qrs moves forward the posts at the latter place will move forward to O.32.c.8.5. Runner posts will be marked by a triangular red flag.

 

APPENDIX 4.

As arranged at Conference.

(Sgd) W.J.W.Colley Capt and Adjt. 7th (S) Battalion Bedfordshire Regt

 

OPERATION ORDERS No.11 by LT COL G.P.MILLS COMMANDING 7TH (S) BN BEDFORDSHIRE REGT. 13-5-17

1. MOVE the Battalion will move into the new area N.32.a. this afternoon. Battalion will move by Companies at 10 minutes interval.2. STARTING POINT Starting Point Road Junction W.20.a.1.6. Starting Time 3.0 p.m. 3. ORDER OF MARCH Headquarters "A" "B" "C" and "D" Coys. 4. ROUTE Neuville-Vitasse, St.Martin sur Cojeul Road. 5. TRANSPORT 1st Line Transport will move into new area S 17.b. on May 14th. 6. BIVOUAC'S A second blanket per man will be issued for bivouac's, these blankets will be handed over to incoming Unit on rlief. Blankets will be drawn at N 32.c.9.8. 7. KIT Company Stores, Blankets, Officers Valises, Orderly Room, Signalling Kit etc will be dumped by Cookers this morning. 8. MATERIAL All material. i.e. sheets of corrugated iron, wood, etc must be taken. Each Company will detail a loading party for its own material and will arrange to unload at destination. 9. COOKING Cooker horses to be sent up this morning and cookers must be sent over as soon as possible.

(SGD) W.J.W.COLLEY CAPT AND ADJT 7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

 

7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGT. ORDER NO 13

1. INTENTION The 7th (S) Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment will exchange Camps this evening with the 8th Suffolks. 2. MOVE The Battalion will move out of its present bivouac's at 4 p.m. 3. STARTING POINT Cross Roads at N.32.c.5.3. 4. ROUTE Most direct across country to camp in S 17. Time 4.30 p.m. Order of March B.H.Q. DRUMS "A" "B" "C" and "D" Companies, with 10 minutes intervals between Coys. 5. DRESS Full Marching Order. 6. MEALS Dinner 12 noon. Tea On arrival. 7. TRANSPORT Transport will report at the camp at 3 p.m. 8. BAGGAGE Officers valises, Blankets in bundles of 10 (one per man) Company Stores, Orderly Room Kit, Signalling Kit etc, must be dumped on fair weather truck by 2.30 p.m. 9. LOADING Each Company will detail a party for loading and unloading the limbers. 10. BIVOUAC'S Bivouac's in Regimental Lines must be left clean disinfected and refuse removed before leaving. A certificate to this effect will be rendered to the R.S.M. by 3 p.m. 11. BILLETING 1 N.C.O. per platoon and 1 N.C.O. for Hd Qrs will report to Major Percival at Q.M.Stores at 12.30 p.m. NOTE: - all bivouac's must be left in a complete a condition as possible. The extra blanket for bivouacing will be left behind.

(SGD) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGT. BOVELLES

 

7th (S) Bn.Bedfordshire Regt. Officers proceeding into action on 3/5/17 & Casualties.

Lt.Col.G.P.Mills Commanding Officer

Capt.W.J.W.Colley Adjutant

2/Lt.H.B.Stewart Lewis Gun Officer

2/Lt.R.B.Rednall Sig. Officer wounded 3/5/17

Capt.K.H.Nelson Medical officer

2/Lt.S.C.Tremeer wounded 3/5/17 [Died of wounds 17/5/17]

2/Lt.R.J.Clarke wounded 3/5/17

2/Lt.J.J.Murray wounded 3/5/17

2/Lt.W.D.Oliver Jones wounded 3/5/17

Capt.W.H.Bull killed 3/5/17

2/Lt.H.Driver wounded (still at duty) 3/5/17

2/Lt.E.G.Pernett

2/Lt.C[hester].B.Kydd killed 3/5/17

Capt.L.H.Keep

2/Lt.C.A.Lawrence

2/Lt.G.J.Luscombe killed in action 3/5/17

2/Lt.P.J.Reiss wounded 3/5/17

Capt.D.S.H.Keep

2/Lt.E.F.Piercy wounded 3/5/17

2/Lt.L.G.Angas killed 3/5/17

2/Lt.H.J.Cartwright wounded 3/5/17

2/Lt.E.St.Hilary Lingwood killed 3/5/17

 

Officers; Killed 5, Wounded 8, Died of Wounds 1

Other Ranks ;Killed 19, Missing 48, Wounded 162, Died of Wounds 6, Missing believed Killed 4, Missing & Wounded 3

[Total] 242
 

June 1917

 

7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGT

1. INTENTION During the night of the 2nd/3rd the 54th Brigade will relieve the 55th Bde. Relieving troops will take over dispositions of the 55th Bde. All Maps, Aeroplane photographs, Intelligence Summaries, reports on work, trench stores etc will be taken over on relief. 2. ROLE OF UNITS 7th Bedfordshire Rgt will relieve the 7th Queens Rgt in support on the Bde Front. A and B Coys will on completion of relief be situated in the Rookery "C" Coy in Concrete Trench. "D" Coy in earls Court and Shaft Trench. B.H.Q. N.35.c.2.7. "A" and "B" Coys will take over from A & C Coys. 7 Queens. Starting Point Cross Roads at N.34.a.7.7. 3. ROUTE H.Qrs, "C" and "D" Coys via Shaft Trench. "A" and "B" Coy via Sussex Avenue. 4. GUIDES From the 7th Queens on the scale of 1 per platoon and 1 for B.H.Q. will be at the Starting Point at 3 p.m. 5. INTERVALS East of Henin sur Cojeul Units will move by platoons with 5 minute intervals. West of this village 500 yards will be maintained between Coys. No movements will take place outside Communication Trench until 10.15 pm. 6. ORDER OF MARCH B.H.Q. "C" "D" "A" and "B" Coys. 7. BOX RESPIRATORS Will be worn at the ALERT throughout the relief. 8. RELIEF Coys will report relief complete by the word STORE. 9. DRESS Full Marching Order. 10. TRENCH STORES Copy of Trench Stores will be forwarded to Battn H.Q. on completion of relief. 11. MEALS Dinners 12 noon. 12. TRANSPORT "C" & "D" Coy L.G.Limbers will move up with their Coy as far as Starting Point. "A" and "B" L.G.Limber will move up to N.30.c.7.1. after dark. "C" & "D" Ration Limbers will move up as previously arranged, arriving about 10 p.m. "A" and "B" Coy Ration Limbers will move to point N.30.c.7.1 after dark. 13. COOKING Support and Reserve Bns can cook in Boilers or Kettles. Coy and Platoon cook-houses to be dug in suitable places off the main trenches. 14. WATER "A" and "B" Coys will have water brought up in Petrol Tins on limbers each evening. Empty tins to be returned next evening. H.Q. "C" and "D" Coys. 1 Water Cart will be permanently kept in the Hindenburg Line. 2 Watermen will remain with the water cart. 15. MESSCART Mess Cart (Maltese Cart as Ordered by M.O) will report at the Mess at 1.30 p.m. 16. BAGGAGE All Blankets (in Bundles of 10) Coy Stores Officers valises etc will be dumped at Q.M. Stores by 11 a.m. Trench Kits etc to be dumped Q.M.Stores by 12 noon. 17. BILLETING CERTIFICATES A Certificate will be rendered to the R.S.M. by 11 a.m. certifying that all Regtl Lines are clean, all refuse removed and Latrines disinfected. 18. ADVANCE PARTY Each company will send 1 Officer and C.S.M. to take over from the 7th Queens leaving the Camp about 11 a.m. B.H.Q. will send Lt. Chapman and R.S.M. to take over Dumps, Stores etc. 19. DUMP DUTIES "C" Coy will supply 1 N.C.O. and 1 O.R. to take over and remain in charge of Dump at T.5.c.7.7. This party will report to Staff Captain at B.H.Q. at 11 a.m. 2-6-17. Guide will be waiting to take him to his post. 20. TRAFFIC CONTROL "A" Coy will find and take over traffic control post at N.30.c.5.3. "B" Coy will find and take over traffic Control Post on high ground N.29.d. These posts Wilden lcompel troops to use Communication Trenches and will prohibit movement which previously took place in view of the enemy. They will take over the orders of the posts they relieve. These Orders must be brought to the notice of all ranks and non compliance will be dealt with severely. 21. ANTI GAS BLANKETS Anti Gas Blankets must be hung at the entrance of all dugouts. Where these are deficient indent for same will be sent at once. 22. S.O.S. SIGNAL Succession of Red Very Lights till followed by Artillery Barrage. 23. 1st LINE TRANSPORT Drummers, and 2 squads of the Untrained Draft.

(SGD) W.J.W.COLLEY, CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BN BEDFORDSHIRE REGT.

 

7th Bn. Bedfordshire Regt. Order No.16 9-6-17

1. Relief Relief of 6th Northants Rgt. 2. Time B. Coy will leave its present position 9.30 p.m. A. Coy will leave its present position 9.45 p.m. D. Coy will leave its present position 9.45 p.m. C. Coy will leave its present position 10.15 p.m. H.Q. will leave its present position 10.0 p.m. 3. Position On completion of relief "A" Coy will hold the right of front line. "B" Coy will hold left of front line. "C" & "D" Coys will be in support. 4. Guides Coys will arrange with the Coys of Northants they are to relieve where guides are to report and all necessary detail 5. Dress A. & B. Coys. Battle Order. C. & D. Coys. Full Marching Order. H.Q. Full Marching Order. 6. Handing Over One N.C.O. will be left behind to hand over stores &c if this has not been previously done. Receipts will be forwarded to B.H.Q. 7. Taking Over Should be completed before the Coys go up. A small advance party of one N.C.O. and one representative per platoon should be sent. A list of stores will be sent to B.H.Q. as soon as possible. 8. Rations Will be dumped at N.30.a.6.3. D.Coy will supply one platoon (25) to carry A. & B. Coys rations and water to them. Two journeys will be necessary. B.H.Q., C. & D. Coys will draw their own rations. 9. Water The allowance will be about 20 Petrol Tins per Coy. 10. Cooks A. & B. Coys' Cooks will return to Q.M. Stores with their camp kettles, picking up the returning transport at the present B.H.Q. C. & D. Coys will remain with their Coys. 11. Baggage B.H.Q. will dump their baggage on the bridge over shaft trench at B.H.Q. for the transport to take up. 12. Reports Trench reports will be sent as per attached schedule. 13. Hd Qrs B.H.Q. will be at the Rookery. 14. Attached Units D.Coy will attach 2 L.Guns to A Coy. These guns will report to Companies at 3.0 p.m. 15. Advance Parties Coys will send advance parties leaving about 4.30 p.m. B Coy only will send its Lewis Guns and attached Lewis Guns up to their positions in the line before dark, starting at 6.0 p.m. and at 10 minute intervals. 16. Completion of Relief Will be reported by code word "STORES". 17. Distribution of Support Coys D. Coy will detail one platoon for carrying rations and water to A. & B. Coys. D Coy will detail one platoon to hold itself in readiness for work, covering parties &c. C. Coy will detail one platoon to take up a position at the right Coy Head Quarters in Curtain Trench, to act as an immediate reserve at night 9.0 p.m. C. Coy will detail one platoon to act as Bn. reserve in its original position. A Defense scheme for holding the line and counter attacking will be sent out later.

(Sgd) W.J.W.Colley, Capt & Adjt. 7th Bn. Bedfordshire Regt.

Note Shoulder Badges are forbidden. No man may wear such distinguishing mark.

 

7th (S) Battalion Bedfordshire Regt. Order No.20 `16-6-17

1. The 54th Infantry Brigade will be relieved by 150th Inf. Bde. 2. The 7th (S) Battalion Bedfordshire Regt. will be relieved by the 5th Bn. Durham Light Infantry on the night 17/18 June. On completion of relief the 7th (S) Bn.Bedfordshire Regt. will proceed to the Reserve Brigade Area S.17. 3. The following will be handed over to the incoming Units: - Trench maps; Trench photographs; Chérisy Map 1/10,000; Petrol reports; Intelligence Reports etc. 4. During the relief Box Respirators will be worn in the "Alert position". 5. Completion of relief will be reported immediately to Battalion Headquarters. 6. The route for incoming and out-going Battalions will be via Sussex Avenue. 7. The necessary number of Guides per Company will be detailed by C.Os. to report to Battalion Head'qrs at 8 pm 17th inst. They will be sent on from Battalion Headquarters to meet the incoming Units at Cross Roads N.34.a.7.7. These Guides should have the dispositions of the posts written on paper which the platoon they guide in is to occupy. O.C. "B" & "C" Companies will send to Battalion Hdqrs the scheme for Guides they propose to work on, by 6 pm 16th inst, also a complete list of their posts and personnel. 8. Stores and dumps will be handed over and receipts obtained and sent to Battalion Headquarters on arrival in S17 area. All cooking utensils etc should be sent down to the Q'master's Stores on the night of the 16th. 9. The Quartermaster will arrange to take over the Camp vacated by the 5th Durham Light Infantry and allot huts to the various platoons etc putting a guard on each. 10. Petrol Tins will be sent down to the Q.M. stores in the usual manner on the 15/16th & 16/17th but dumped in the rations dump on the 17/18th evening. 11. All Baggage, Officers valises, Coy Kit etc will be dumped on the ration dump by 10 p.m. NOTE (1) E. of HENIN-SUR-COJEUL units will move by platoons at 5 minutes interval, W of this village 500 yards distance will be maintained between Companies. (2) No movement outside communication trenches must be allowed before 10.15 p.m.

(SGD) W.J.W.COLLEY, CAPTAIN, ADJUTANT. 7th (S) BN. BEDFORDSHIRE REGT

 

7TH (S) BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ORDER No. 22

1. On June 18th and 19th the 54th Brigade will move to the Corps Rest Area. 2. Baggage wagons will report to Units on June 17th and will remain with them until completion of move. 3. Supply wagons will march full with the train and will dump rations for the 19th inst at Monchy au Bois in the afternoon of the 18th inst. 4. The Bn. will move to Monchy au Bois on the 18th inst. 5. Starting Point, level Crossing over railway at S22.b.36. 6. Time. 6.15 p.m. 7. Order of March. B.H.Q. A. B. Drums, C and D Coys at 50 yards interval which will be maintained. 8. Dress. Full Marching Order. Steel helmets will be worn. Respirators on the top of the pack. 9. Meals. Tea before starting, cooks will arrange to supply tea on arrival. 10. Transport. Will march in rear of Battalion. 11. Baggage. Officers valises, Orderly Room kit, Signallers kit, Company kit etc will be dumped on the parade ground near Orderly Room by 4.45 p.m. and will be loaded by the Pioneers. 12. Camp. tent flies will be rolled up and Regimental lines cleaned and in order by 5 p.m. Latrines will be filled in and all refuse put in the incinerator by 5 p.m. 13. Sick. A roll of sick will be sent to Orderly Room by 3 p.m. with notification of transport required. 14. Starting time for 19th 6 a.m. 15. Note. All will wear packs, the only exceptions being R.S.M. C.Q.M.S. Drums, Cooks, Grooms and Limber drivers. these packs will be carried on the Baggage wagon Cookers and Limbers respectively.

(SIGNED) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT AND ADJT. 7th (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

 

7TH (S) BATTALION REGIMENT [sic] ORDER No.23

1. On the 19th June the Battalion will move to HENU. 2. Starting Point. Road junction East end of BIENVILLERS. 3. Time 6 a.m. 4. Order of March. Headquarters, B, C, Drums, D, A Coys at 50 yards interval. 5. Dress Full Marching Order. Steel Helmets will be worn. 6. Meals. Breakfast 4.30 a.m. Dinner 11 a.m. 7. Transport. Will march in rear of the Battalion. 8. Baggage. All Officers valises, Orderly Room stores, Signallers kits, Company Stores etc to be dumped in place to be notified later by 4.30 a.m. 9. Billets. Regimental lines will be left clean, Latrines disinfected and filled in and refuse placed in the incinerator by 5 a.m. 10. Sick. Roll of sick stating the number unable to march will be sent to Orderly Room by 4.30 a.m. Reveille 4 a.m.

(SIGNED) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT MONCHY -AU-BOIS

July 1917

7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ORDER NO.21

1. MOVE The Battalion will entrain at DOULLENS on 3-7-17. 2. ADVANCE PARTY An Advance Party of 3 Other ranks per Company. 1 Other ranks per Battn Headquarters. 1 Other ranks per Transport. 2 Other ranks per Cyclists with cycles. Under Lieut.F.E.Dealler will report at R.T.Os Office an hour before the train starts on the 1st July taking rations for 2nd and 3rd insts. The Brigades Advance Parties will be under Major F.W.Roberts (6th Northants) to whom instructions will be issued later. Brigade Representatives each Brigade will detail one Officer to report to the R.T.O. at their entraining station 3 hours before the departure of the first train this Officer will remain at the station throughout the entrainment. Officer detailed. Captain J.C.M.Ferguson. 54th Bde Station DOULLENS North. Time of Departure of 1st train for Advance Party will be notified later. First Train 3-7-17 10.04 a.m.

(SGD) W.J.W.COLLEY.CAPT AND ADJT 7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT.

 

 "D" COMPANY You will proceed by route march to DOULLENS with your Cooker and entrain there on No 10 train at 10.04 hrs. on 4th inst. Your serial No will be 23a. You should arrive at the Station 1 hour before the time of departure and your Cooker 3 hours before time of departure. Your destination will be GODEWAERSVELDE. RATIONS. You will draw rations for the 4th from the Q.M.Stores. rations for the 5th will be drawn from GAUDIEMPRÉ where you will send 1 N.C.O. as a guide to the A.S.C. reporting to them at 12 noon on the 3rd.

 

7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ORDER NO.22

INTENTION The Battalion, less "D" Company and Cooker, will proceed by route march to DOULLENS where I twill entrain at 22.19 hrs. on 3-7-17 for GODEWAERSVELDE. STARTING POINT Cross Roads at Brigade Headquarters. TIME 3.15 p.m. ORDER OF MARCH Battalion Headquarters, "A" Coy, Drums, "B" Coy. "C" Coy. DRESS Full Marching Order. Steel Helmets will be carried strapped on the pack. Rifle covers on the rifles. MEALS Dinners 12 noon. Tea on arrival at DOULLENS. The unconsumed portion of the days ration and the breakfast ration for the 4th will be carried on the man. TRANSPORT The Transport, less one Cooker attached to "D" Coy, will move to DOULLENS independently, passing the starting point at 2.45 p.m. Tea should be cooked on the route. Guides will meet the Transport at the entrance to DOULLENS. BAGGAGE Officers valises, Coys Stores, Workshops etc. will be dumped at the Q.M.Stores by 10 a.m. One limber will collect Orderly Room stores, Signallers kit, H.Q. Cooking Utensils at 1 p.m. BILLETS All billets and Regimental lines will be left clean, latrines disinfected, refuse removed to incinerator by 11 a.m. Billeting party has proceeded in advance. SICK Details will be notified by the M.O. ORDERLIES O.C. Signals will detail 2 cycle orderlies to report to Capt.Ferguson at DOULLENS Station by 4 p.m. on 3-7-17. STRAGGLERS Sergt.Dodkin will march in rear of the Battalion and collect all stragglers and march them in an orderly manner to DOULLENS Station, North Sidings. DETAILS Strict train discipline must be maintained. Each Coy will detail an Officer and Sergt. to see that their men do not leave the train without permission.

(SIGNED) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

 

7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGT ORDER NO 23.

INTENTION The 18th Division less Artillery will relieve the 30th Division less Artillery. The 54th Brigade will relieve the 55th Brigade in Support on night of 6th/7th, the 55th Brigade taking over the front from the 30th Division. STARTING POINT Fork roads 200 yards E of "D" Company. TIME Time 5.30 p.m. ORDER OF MARCH Battalion H.Q. "D" "C" Drums "A" "B" DRESS S.M.O. Steel helmets carried on straps at the back. MEALS Meals at usual times and a hot tea on arrival. TRANSPORT Transport will follow the Battalion and be billeted in the same area. BAGGAGE Officers valises, Coy stores etc will be dumped outside Coy H.Q. at 1 p.m. BILLETS All billets and bivouacs will be left clean, latrines disinfected and all refuse disposed of. BILLETING PARTY The advance party on one per Bn.H.Q. and one per Coy will proceed under Lieut. Dealler leaving here at 1 p.m. for new billeting area, PALACE CAMP H25.c.4.0 and take over from 7th R.W.Kent Regt. SICK Sick parade will be in Medical Inspection Hut 1 hour after arrival. NOTE a. Route of march ABEELE cross roads - ABEELE STATION - FRONTIER ROAD to RENINGHELST - OUDERDOM. b. Only clock hour halts will be made. c. After RENINGHELST Coys will move independently at 200 yards interval. d. All water bottles will be filled before departure. e. Bomb buckets, wire cutters etc will be worn with the equipment but periscopes and Very pistols may be dumped with Coy baggage. MAP REFERENCE SHEET 28 N.W.

(SIGNED) S.R.CHAPMAN. LIEUT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BATTN BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

 

7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGT. ORDER No.27

1. INTENTION The Battalion will move by Route March tomorrow to STEENVOORDE WEST Area. 2. STARTING POINT Frontier Road 3. TIME Time 7.15 a.m. 4. ORDER OF MARCH Headquarters, "C" "D" Drums "A" and "B" Coys Regtl.Transport 5. DRESS Full Marching Order. Steel Helmets to be carried on the pack. 6. MEALS Breakfast 5.30 a.m. Dinners will be served at 1.0 p.m. 7. TRANSPORT Transport will march behind the Battalion. 8. BAGGAGE To be dumped by the Cookers by 6.15 a.m. Pioneers will load up. 9. BILLETS Regimental Lines must be left clean, Latrines disinfected and all matter for the Incinerator dumped by 6.15 a.m. 10. BILLETING PARTY One representative per Headquarters and each Company to report to Lieut.F.E.Dealler at the Orderly Room by 6.50 a.m. This party will report to an Officer of the 89th Infantry Brigade at ---------. 11. HANDING OVER Captain R.O.Clark will remain behind to hand over the Camp to the 89th Infantry Brigade.

(SIGNED) W.J.W.COLLEY, CAPTAIN & ADJUTANT. 7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT STEENVOORDE

 

7th (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ORDER NO.28. MAP REFERENCE HAZEBROUCK

1. INTENTION The Battalion will move by route march tomorrow 29th to Connaught Camp and later in the evening to PALACE CAMP H.25.c.4.0 2. STARTING POINT Cross Roads immediately S of D in STEENVOORDE. 3. STARTING TIME Starting Time 6.30 a.m. 4. ORDER OF MARCH Headquarters, "D" "A" Drums "B" "C" Four Cookers and one water cart, Mess Cart. 5. DRESS Full Marching Order less packs. 6. MEALS Breakfast 4.30 a.m. Dinners on arrival at Connaught Camp. 7. TRANSPORT (a) Will move independently. (b) Cookers, one water cart, Mess Cart will accompany the Battalion. (c) The Transport may not move further than CONNAUGHT CAMP without the Battalion, so will report at Connaught Camp before 8.p.m. 8. BAGGAGE All Company and Hd Qrs Kits less packs to be dumped at Company and Bn Hd Qrs by 5.a.a. Packs will be dumped in the transport field by 5.a.a. but no other baggage is to be with them. Headquarter details will mess with their respective companies for the day excluding breakfast. 9. BILLETS Will be left clean, latrines filled in and disinfected, all refuse removed. 10. BILLETING PARTY Two representatives per Company and Headquarters will report to Lieut Dealler who will leave one billeting party at Connaught Camp and one at PALACE CAMP. 11. SICK The Medical Officer will make arrangements for those unable to march. 12. BRIGADE STARTING POINT Will be first cross roads east of STEENVOORDE. Time 7.0 a.m.

(SGD) W.J.W.COLLEY. CAPT AND ADJT. 7TH (S) BATTALION BEDFORDSHIRE REGIMENT

 

 

August 1917

 

7th (S) Bn Bedfordshire Regt. 7-8-17 Information

1. The II Corps will capture and hold at an early date INVERNESS COPSE, GLENCORSE WOOD and the Southern end of WESTHOEK RIDGE. 2. "Z" day and "Zero" hour will be notified later.3. The attack will be carried out by the 18th Division on the right, 25th Division on the left, 7th Brigade will attack on our left. 4. The 54th Brigade will attack on a two Battalion and the 55th Brigade on a one Battalion frontage. 5. The 11th Royal Fusiliers will form the right assaulting Battalion and will form up on a general line J14.c.1.5.55 - J14.a.0.0. - J13.b.9.3. They will fight their way through to the final objective, consolidate and hold it. Instructions 6. The Battalion (7th Bedfords) will form up along a line J.13.b.9.3. J.7.d.95.15. road exclusive and fight their way to final objective, consolidate and hold it. 7. Disposition of Companies "C" Coy. will be the right assaulting Company. "B" Coy. will be the left assaulting Company. "A" Coy. will be in Support. "D" Coy Reserve Company. 8. Dividing Line The approximate dividing line between Fusiliers and Bedfords is J.13.b.9.3 - J.14.a.90.55 - J.14.b.65.65. 9. Mopping Up One Company Northants will be attached to the Battalion for Mopping Up, this Company will not proceed beyond the road running from J.9.c.6.2 through J.8.c.7.1 Companies Wilden ldo their own mopping up after crossing this road Task of Assaulting Coys The two assaulting Coys ("C" & "B") will fight their way through to the final objective (YELLOW LINE) consolidate and hold it. "A" COMPANY will follow in close support to the assaulting Companies ready to give them any assistance to gain their final objective. This Company must lose no opportunity to push the assault forward until the final objective (YELLOW LINE) is reached. If the assaulting Companies are not held up or checked, the Company will follow them, fighting in close support and be ready to render them any assistance on the YELLOW LINE, they may require - they will also act as counter-attack Company should the necessity arise. After the YELLOW LINE has been gained and all is quiet, this Company should be tucked away in close support to the front line. "D" COMPANY will be in Reserve and will move up as the attack goes forward to a position in JARGON TRENCH, ready to render any assistance that may be required, should the situation become critical they will support the front line Companies in such a manner that no ground that has been once gained is lost. If the attack is successful orders will be sent to this Company from the Battalion Commander, but this does not prevent the Company Commander from issuing his own instructions to prevent any ground being given up after once it has been gained. MACHINE GUNS Two Machine Guns will be attached to the Battalion, these Guns will move forward with the Reserve Coy ("D" Coy) until the objective is gained, they will then be placed in position in Strong Points 4 and 5. FORMING UP The lines for forming up will be marked out by Y-Z night with telephone wire and tape in accordance with verbal instructions given to all concerned. THE ADVANCE The signal for the advance will be the opening of the Shrapnel Barrage when Bayonets will be fixed and the attack carried out. DRESS Fighting Order plus one day's rations including the Iron Rations). RIFLEMEN: 170 rds S.A.A. BOMBERS: 5 No.5's, 120 rds S.A.A. RIFLE BOMBERS: 5 No.23, 120 rds S.A.A. MOPPERS UP: 5 No.23's or 5 No.5's, 120 rds S.A.A. All Other ranks will carry their usual complement. EXPLOITING SUCCESS After reaching the objectives on the YELLOW LINE patrols will be pushed out to reconnoitre the S.W. portion of NONNE-BOSSCHEN from about the Western end of the Track running through the SCH in BOSSCHEN to the track running along the southern border of the wood NONNE-BOSSCHEN - this will be carried out in conjunction with similar patrols of the 11th Royal Fusiliers. WATER All Water Bottles must as far as possible be kept filled. PRISONERS Brigade collecting points at J.13.a.9.13 LIASON Lt.H.B.Stewart will act as Liason Officer between Bn. Headquarters and the 8th Loyal North Lancs on our left.

(SGD) J.H.BRIDCUTT MAJOR COMDG. 7TH BN. BEDFORD REGT.

 

From: Officer Commanding 7th (S) Battalion Bedfordshire Regt. [Appendix III]. To: Headquarters 54th Infantry Brigade.

In accordance with B.M.465 I have the honour to forward herewith a brief account of the operations undertaken by the 7th (S) Bn.Bedfordshire Regiment on the 10th August 1917 13/8/17 J.H.Bridcutt, Major Comdg 7th (S) Bn.Bedfordshire Regt.

 

On Y/Z night the Battalion was distributed as follows:

One Company ("D" Coy Company Commander Capt.J.C.M.Ferguson) was holding the battle front, one Company ("A" Coy Company Commander Capt.R.O.Clark) was in close support sheltered in tunnel on MENIN road (about J.13.a.9.3) two Coys ("B" & "C" Companies Commanders Capt.H.Driver & Capt.O.Kingdon respectively) were quartered in the RITZ area (RITZ trenches). Zero was fixed for 4.35 a.m. and all troops were to be in their jumping off position by 3.30 a.m. At about 11.50 p.m. the first platoon of "B" Coy (left assaulting Coy) arrived at a point on the MENIN Road about J13.a.9.3. Here they were checked by two Officers (Capt.W.J.W.Colley, Lieut.H.B.Stewart & the Regtl.Sergt.Major). Each platoon was counted by one Officer. Each man was given a cup of hot tea & Rum as he passed. Each platoon Commander & Sergt. was handed copy of situation map. Each platoon Commander given his guide to conduct him to SURBITON VILLAS. The remaining platoons of the assaulting Companies "B" & "C" arrived at this point at about one or two minutes interval and were checked and passed as already described. A Tape was laid previously from this point to SURBITON VILLAS (this tape was independent of the forming up tapes) along which each platoon moved and could not possibly miss their way. As each platoon arrived at a spot near SURBITON VILLAS they were met by a platoon guide and the Company Commanders and were conducted to their battle formation - here they laid down in perfect quietness until the first note of the guns sang out. "A" Company (the Company in immediate support) moved from their cover in the MENIN road tunnel by platoons to their place in battle formation, under the same arrangements as the assaulting Companies. "D" Company (already in and holding the line) furnished a covering party (one platoon) who were posted about 150 yards in front of the forming up tapes, pieces of trench which were almost identical to their forming up position afforded this Company protection in case of Bosche barrage being turned on; this they occupied, moving forwards to JARGON trench as previously ordered as the attack went forward. THE BATTLE The arrangements for forming up went without a hitch and at the appointed time (4.35 a.m.) the guns opened and the attack went forward in a most determined manner to the final objective which was reached at 5.13 a.m. Some 100-150 Bosches were in GLENCOURSE WOOD on the Battalion front and two machine guns, these were knocked out & the teams destroyed in such a rapid manner that any organised resistance by the Bosch was at once overcome and most of the Bosch that had not been killed at once cried "KAMERAD" and ran forward into our lines most of them wounded & fearfully frightened. After the objective had been reached battle patrols were sent out & posts established in usual way, along the South Western end of NONNE-BOSSCHEN WOOD as near to the protective barrage as it was safe to get. (i.e. about 200 yards). The Battalion then commenced to consolidate. "A"-"B" + "C" Coys = front line "D" Coy - Reserve Coy = JARGON TRENCH and a Battalion carrying party was sent forward with S.A.A. and Lewis Gun drums etc. During the day the Bosch made repeated attempts to from up & deliver what appeared to be a counter-attack of some strength, he was prevented time after time from doing sp by rifle and machine gun fire, but owing to the expenditure of S.A.A. and the difficulty of replenishing same, care rose to anxiety and probability of our foremost line & right flank being overcome. At this stage of the operation I considered it advisable if the position was to be held with any degree of certainty it required artillery support in the form of a few shots every few minutes on the only places the Bosch could use to form up under cover from view i.e. NONNE BOSSCHEN, INVERNESS & SOUTH WESTERN portion of POLYGON WOOD. This was suggested over the telephone but so far as could be understood it could not be arranged, consequently it appeared to me & others at the front that it was a question of S.O.S. for Artillery or nothing at all. And this signal was repeatedly seen in the air at various points along the line but no S.O.S. was asked for by the 7th Bedfords until towards the evening when it was too obvious that the Bosch intended to have a final struggle to get back the ground we held, as troops were seen emerging from each of the three woods above mentioned, and a dense cloud of smoke & gas was being sent over which obscured everything from view. At this time I cannot state the exact clock hour the artillery opened and with terrible execution, but the Bosch line came on delivering their attack on the right flank of the Battalion. The advanced posts were either killed or captured, it is impossible to say which, but judging from the very intense barrage which the Bosch rolled over GLENCORSE WOOD they were undoubtedly killed, a certain amount of confusion set in on our right and it was only by firm determination that the strong point at J.14.a.4.2. which I had taken over from the right Battalion (11th Royal Fusiliers) and JARGON TRENCH was held. When the attack was fully developing reinforcements (two Coys) of the Royal Berkshire Regt arrived and were sent forward to hold our original front line in case the Bosch succeeded in his object to gain the strong point and high ridge STIRLING CASTLE - STRONG POINT J 14.a.4.2. - JARGON TRENCH. The attack however did not materialise and only his advanced line got near the position. The situation quietened down and the relief of the Battalion by the Royal Berkshire Regt was carried out by 2 A.M. and the Battalion withdrew to CHATEAU SEGARD. Established line handed over was JARGON TRENCH - LADY'S LEG - STRONG POINT J14.a.4.2. Situation of forward posts was somewhat obscure. It is worthy of record the splendid manner in which the two Coys of the Royal Berkshire Regt came up to reinforce. They had a terrific barrage on the support line through which they travelled without a waver, shells falling into and all round each platoon. Major Longhurst of this Regt. arrived in advance of these two Coys and rendered most valuable assistance in establishing a second line of defence in case of necessity.

 

Lessons 1. I venture to think had a fresh Battalion been close at hand when the situation on the right became obscure and pushed in, in attack formation a good deal more ground would have been taken and the Boche routed from his position. 2. Artillery should not cease firing on protected lines until Battalion Commander is satisfied all is well. Artillery ceased on the 10th without any reference to Battalions (at least not to 7th Bedfords). I consider it of great importance that Battalion Commanders should be able to convey to Artillery which fire other than S.O.S. is required. 3. No telephone wire to be laid beyond Brigade HQ as it is used for all kinds of things that hopelessly give away arrangements, and too many other ranks have access to it and the Commanders of the sector having no knowledge of many things happening on the wire unless he or his Adjutant sits by it. The telephone was a nuisance and not the least assistance to the Battalion on the 10th inst. 4. It took from 5 to 6 minutes before the Hun Barrage got really going on our lines, it was severe when it did do so. 5. The 54th Brigade arrangements for ordering up the reserve Coys from RITZ area and the Coys for mopping up was excellent, timing was also extremely good. 6. To avoid any Platoon going astray I placed Battalion Police posts 100-200 yds apart along the ATN track from RITZ area to MENIN road passing point. 7. Our own Artillery inflicted many casualties on our troops by firing very short what appeared to be one 8" gun in particular. 8. The Boche attack was guided by a line of his men at a few paces apart firing very lights, during the advance these were with the first wave.