Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Alfred Bray war memoirs, ca. 1920
MLMSS 1273/Item 5
[Transcriber’s notes: Alfred Ernest Cornelius Bray (No. 3014) was 18 years and 5 months old and a Clerk when he enlisted on the 16th August 1915. He returned to Australia in December 1918 and was discharged in April 1919 as "Unfit for Duty".]

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[Cover]

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Diary
The experiences of No 3014 Sergeant A.E.C. Bray 3rd Battalion A.I.F.
During the Great War 1914 – 1918

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Chapters
Forward – Page 5
In Camp – Page 7
At Sea – Page 8
Egypt – Page 13
Egypt to France – Page 24
France – Page 31
Belgium – Page 75
The Somme Winter 1916 – Page 89
England – Page 126
Back to France – Page 138
Huns offensive of 1918 – Page 170
I become a casualty – Page 188
England again – Page 193
Homeward Bound – Page 198
Synopsis of Movements – Page 209

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To the reader of this book. In the following pages I have endeavoured to convey as true to detail as possible the main events of my experience whilst on Active Service with the A.I.F. during the Great War of 1914 – 1918
In attempting to write this record I claim no literary ability; it is purely the effort of an amateur. From the day on which I enlisted I decided to try and keep a diary of events & from time to time forwarded my memorandum home for safe keeping. It should be understood that what I have written are the impressions that were made on my individual mind; others who were present & witnessed the same happening, would quite possibly give a different description. The Sketches included are draw from memory and are intended to give the reader, who did not actually see the War Zone, some idea of a Front Line Trench with its supports & reserves in Rear. They cannot be supposed to be absolutely accurate as an ordinary Soldier had no opportunity of making a sufficient survey of the land to be able to reproduce a sketch some three or four years later as I have attempted to do now.
In Camp
My first attempt to join the army for active service in the Great War was on Sunday August the Eighth 1915 at Victoria Barracks Sydney, but was rejected for reasons not stated by the examining medical officer. This however only temporarily damped my hopes for a week later I paid a visit to the Board of Health Recruiting Depot at Circular Quay on Monday night 16th of August, where I passed without any trouble, vaccinated & told to report to Victoria Barrack at 11 AM on 23rd of August 1915 ready to go into camp. On the 23rd of August with chest thrown out I arrived at the Barracks at 11 AM & after the necessary roll call, was given light refreshments by the Ladies league before moving off. The recruits were formed up about 1 PM 1,023 strong, detailed into parties & set out for the Central Railway Station via Moore Park & Cleveland St arriving at the station a little after 2 PM entraining in two special trains & taken to Liverpool. on disentraining at Liverpool the party was formed up in fours and set out on the march. As the column passed the camp at Liverpool the troops from that camp lined the road greeting us with cheers & shouts of "marmalade" which was all taken good humouredly. The march ended at Holdsworthy where the party was split up, alloted to tents & companies myself being detailed to "C" Company "4th" Depot Battalion, this being the first Depot Battalion at Holdsworthy. Before settling down that night each man had to draw three blankets, eating utensils, rations, etc from the Quartermaster’s Store & after being fixed up all turned in finding the ground very hard for the first time. From then on our recruiting days started in blue dungarees with white hats & drill that a great number knew nothing or very little about but progressed favourably as time went on. After parade the first day & each succeeding day the boys who were in camp would lien the road to wait for the incoming recruits who arrived about 5 PM & greet them with cheers and the same old cry of "Marmalade". The boys were able to get out of camp at night for if passes were not

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available french leave would be taken to get home or into town which ever the case may be. our stay in this camp lasted nearly a month by which time we were beginning to feel something like soldiers or would be’s every man knowing his right foot from the left. On the 15th September 1915 the whole of the 4th Depot Battalion was formed up & marched to Liverpool camp being put into tents on Meningitis Hill at the far end near the Light Horse my company then being transferred as the 7th Reinforcement of the 18th Battalion. From this on we began to dabble in the advanced stages of recruiting which of course pleased all hands. By this time the weather was beginning to get on the warm side so the troops used to spend their spare time in swimming in the Georges river which was close by. We received our issue of uniforms on the 22nd of October 1915 & it was then that we all felt dinkum soldiers everyone being anxious to get leave into town so as to be seen in khaki. Six days later the Reinforcement started on elementry musketry & rifle exercises, the following day 29 October being issued with equipment. This was a sight for sore eyes for each man was given a pack full of straps, pouches, etc & most of the boys had not seen them before so needed tuition in the assembling of the gear but after a day or two everybody was efficient in this occupation. On the 30th of October the Reinforcement was paraded and marched to Liverpool station where we entrained for Sydney, when on reaching town the troops were put into special Trams & taken to Roseberry Race Course, which was to be our place of abode during the few days on rifle shooting at the Long Bay Range. Whilst here the boys were able to get home each night & during the few days there we went through all target practices in which I managed to get a very fair average. our stay lasted on above duties for a few days returning to Liverpool on the 3rd of November. next day the 4th the Reinforcement was paraded & issued with over sea kits & then sent on final leave which terminated on the 18th.
Leave was mostly spent at home & going round seeing relations & friends returning to camp on the night of the 18th in good order. Towards the end of the next week things started to get busy for the troops declared war on the military police which ended in a victory for the troops. The police tents & belongings being burned & the articles that would not burn were placed to rest in the river close by. On the 29th November the troops had to fall in with all their gear & marched to Casula Camp with Reinforcements of the 19th & 20th Battalions. Casula Camp at that time was only a raw recruit camp for by this time we kidded ourselves full blown soldiers. On entering the camp it was found that the Military Police had command of the recruits so the first thing our Reinforcements did, on being dismissed, was to clear the objectionables (police) out of the way, opening the camp for all hands. This action was much appreciated, appearing real heroes in the eyes of the marmalades who occupied the camp. From then on till we left we were not troubled with much drill being more often out of camp than in it unless a special parade or inspection was ordered for no one was anxious to miss getting away when the time for departure arrived. Towards the end of December our Reinforcement was told that we would be leaving before Xmas so everyone busied themselves preparing for their departure. On the 21st December we had an inspection & were told we would be leaving camp for the boat during the early hours of the 23rd, so on the 22nd every one took leave of absence, so I went home where I spent most of the day & after saying Good-bye to all took my departure about midnight leaving, Mother, Brother, & Sisters on Hurstville Railway Station. On reaching Sydney the excitement was intense caused by the boys who were going away next morning. Special trains were run that night to Liverpool to get the boys into camp who were going away & they were all merry & bright. On reaching Liverpool the motor cars & taxi cabs were

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commandeered, the drivers being compelled to take the troops to camp free of charge. There was very little sleep for anyone in camp that night for tent raids & bon-fires were numerous for the boys were all excited & anxious to get away after four long months in camp. breakfast was early next morning after which the troops were formed up & marched to Liverpool station entraining about 4.15AM on the 23rd December 1915 there being 1200 troops occupying three special trains. All the way down the line to Sydney the troops were cheered among flag waving & whistles, the excitement growing every minute until reaching Sydney when it was at fever heat. On disentraining at Sydney we set out on the march up Wentworth Avenue to Woollomooloo wharf where the Transport lay. There was a great throng of people enroute & I met all who came to see me off, at the wharf gates & after saying good-bye to all marched onto the boat "S S" "Suevic" Transport A29. When all the troops were aboard, the gangways were pulled up, then the people were allowed on the wharf, the bands striking up popular airs kept things alive. Streamers were thrown up by the people on the wharf below & as the ship pulled away from the wharf the streamers broke, the massed bands playing "For Auld Lang Syne". After this the ship made its way out into the stream where we remained for the day having launches & small boats out to visit us. The anchor was weighed about 4.30 PM & with steam up the ship made its way slowly towards the Heads which were cleared about 5 PM. Once outside the ship turned south following the coast and many an old familiar spot was recognised until night began to fall when the coast line faded out of sight. It was then most of the boys, self included, began to feel the strain of the days experience which could be marked as one of the most eventful days of your life & all soon sought comfort in a sleep below. our bunks consisted of two blankets & a canvas hammock which was swung on hooks in the roof between decks. These proved very comfortable to sleep in no matter how the ship moved the hammock always remained in the same position; but they were very awkward to get in & out of & many of the boys fell to the floor while trying to do so. However these difficulties were soon overcome & was not long before I fell to sleep and experiencing the open sea for the first time in my life.

At Sea
The following morning the 24th December 1915 broke with the ship well out to sea & as the day wore on there was great excitement aboard as it was found that a girl, whose name was Maud Butler, was aboard dressed in khaki. On being found she was immediately quartered in the Captains Cabon on the bridge & of course all the boys were curious to get a glimpse of her, most of the boys being successful. The troops were never told how the girl was actually found but she was thought a dinkum heroine, a very substantial collection being raised in admiration of her pluck. The same afternoon we slowed down, a ship coming up astern which we were told was the Achilles a Blue funnel cargo boat which has since been sank by the Huns. When this boat pulled up close by, our ship stopped & a small boat was lowered from our ship & the girl accompanied by ships officers left for the Achilles. As the small boat left ringing cheers followed it, the troops waving, the girl answering, until the Achilles was reached, when the girl was seen to mount the ladder onto the boat. On the return of the ships officers we set full steam ahead & was not long before the Achilles & our heroine we well out of sight. Next morning the troops had to settle down to ship routine orders

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being instructed in boat drill, all being allotted to life boats in case of accidents during the voyage. There were 1500 troops on board consisting of the 7th Reinforcement for the 17th, 18th, 19th & 20th Battalions & the 12th Reinforcement of the 13th Battalion each reinforcement being 300 strong. A submarine guard was formed, there being 15 men from each reinforcement to which I was detailed, our duties being to fire on the periscope of a submarine should one attack us. Each day the guard was put through rifle exercises, musketry, aiming etc, this excluding me from all other duties aboard ship. On the 28th December man was arrested on board & put in the guard room as being a suspected spy but on enquiring into his case he was released. Things began to get very quiet Xmas Day arriving without any fuss the troops having to be satisfied with greasy pork & ship plum pudding for dinner. During the 2nd day of the New year it was found that one of our reinforcement had fallen overboard, it casting a dull spell over the ship for he was a very bright chap & liked by all whom he came in contact with him. It was never found out how he fell overboard, but his blankets were found hanging over the side from the top deck where he had been accustomed to sleeping since leaving Sydney. A few days later things began to get busy for we had to prepare for the crossing of the line which took place about 2 pm on the 11th of January. A Big canvas tank was erected on the forward well deck being filled with salt water pumped in from the ocean by the ships pump. Father Neptune & family were in attendance & throughout the performance which consisted mostly of ducking one another in the tank, the boys had a very enjoyable time, which broke the monotony of sea life that had begun to envelope the ship & all aboard. After leaving Cape Leeuwin, Western Australia, neither land or ship was sighted until 11 AM on 14th January 1916 when Cape Gardefewee, the most easterly point of Africa came in sight it being a treat for sore eyes. On passing the cape the ship entered the Gulf of Eden passing Eden during the early morn of the 16th. At 9.30 AM the same day we passed close to the "Jugla-Paw" Light House which is situated on the top of a great rock rising straight out of the sea having a very spectacular appearance. During the remainder of the day we passed a group of islands known as the "Twelve Apostles" which were only made of rock, uninhabited, standing out of the sea. The next morning we passed more islands following close by the coast of Africa most of the day. A peculiarity of these islands is that they are huge masses of Iguana rock which is used as a fertilizer, some of them being quarried to a very great extent & the rock taken away in ships. On the 20th of January we were given a Red Cross issue of underclothing the second since leaving Sydney, also being told about the sinking of the passenger ship "Persia" in the Meditteranean Sea. That same day the troops were all issued with twenty four hours rations, consisting of biscuits & bully beef, which was to be taken ashore with us when we landed. Early next morning the ship arrived outside Port Suez dropping anchor well out from the land. out beside & ahead of us could be seen several Man-o-wars & naval craft mixed in with a number of big liners all laying at anchor. Dozens of native craft with three cornered sails were sailing about loading & unloading cargo from the ships at anchor. The town of Suez could be seen quite plainly, the first thing that strikes the eye is a number of big white oil tanks which are right at the waters edge. During the afternoon the "Caloola" an Australian Hospital Ship pull out from the wharf laden with troops bound for home & as the ship crossed our bow deafing cheers rang out from both ships. We remained anchored out in the stream all that night

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things being exceptionally quiet for it was the first time the ship had actually stop since leaving Australia. Throughout the whole of the voyage the troops had concert parties & boxing contests, some of these proving very enjoyable for there was some very good talent including "Tom Dawson" the one time Tivoli artist who rendered very decent items. The ship also suffered a slight mishap whilst crossing the Indian Ocean which necessitated her running on one set of engines instead of two, reducing our speed to about half but the trouble was rectified in a couple of cays, when things went on as usual. Next morning the 22nd January another Hospital ship, laden with wounded for home pulled out our boat taking it place at the wharf. Suez Harbour itself is divided from the open sea by a breakwater & is not very big, but has a fair wharfing accommodation with big coaling stages, the railway running right down the full length of the main wharf. It was whilst at this wharf we first met the Egyptians whose ways & customs at first sight seemed extremely peculiar, the majority of them being very dark & dirty in appearance. Several of the "Gippoes" managed to get aboard & were exchanging the troops money from English into Egyptian, when it was found the troops were being robbed. The Niggers would give an Aussie a hand full of small coins for a pound & on reckoning it up, would be found to be about 50% short. So it was not long before the money exchanges were closed up the niggers being put off the boat. These natives astonished you with their strength, no soon as the ship tied up she began to discharge bales of wool. A native would then take one of thee bales on his shoulders & carry it a distance of two hundred yards to the rail head, where they were stacked, seeming to carry the load with ease. There were quite a number of natives employed on this work being controlled by an overseer, also a native, who used a long whip to keep his men working. At 11.30 AM the troops disembarked going straight aboard a waiting train which was about equal to a cattle train. The carriages consisted of small box apartments with hard seats, being in a very dirty conditions causing a very bad smell. The ride lasted some eight hours, half the journey laying through trackless dessert, the remainder being fairly decent furtile country. The rural country was spotted with "Oasis" with their tall palm trees & villages which gave the scenery a beautiful & picturesque appearance. At different places along the line, were camps of British & Indian Soldiers, who were, training & on defence & garrison duties. our train ride came to an end at Zeitium where on disentraining the troops were marched to a camp at Heliopolis a distance of about one & a half miles, accompanied by a number of other troops who had been in Egypt for some time & were anxious to get the latest news from Aussie. On arriving at the camp we were detailed into "Rush Huts" being issued with two blankets each, but it being an extremely cold night my mate & self salvaged two more blankets from the Quartermasters Store. After the blankets were issued the troops were served with cups of hot coffee; we were also informed that there would be nothing doing until the next morning when an inspection was to be held after which there would be leave for the day. This news was welcome & we were soon busy preparing our beds for a comfortable nights sleep, the first on land since leaving Sydney.

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Egypt
After breakfast the next morning 23rd January 1916 our reinforcement fell in for inspection & roll call , before being dismissed the boys were told that they could have leave for the remainder of the day. As soon as the parade was finished two of us accompanied by a mate who had been in Egypt for some time set out for Ciaro for the day. On leaving the camp our way lay through Heliopolis which at first sight seemed a very decent town but our minds being made up to see Ciaro no time was to be lost in getting to that city. When we arrived at the terminus in Heliopolis we got aboard an electric train which is a very elaborate vehicle & a credit to the country. The ride into the city lasted about twenty minutes, seeing many an interesting sight on the way for the natives’ customs were extremely peculiar to me & the sighs were altogether different to anything I had ever seen before. On arriving in Ciaro we disentrained at the Central Station which is a fine big building, then made our way towards the European quarters of the city. This part of the city consists of some very fine building & business places, with several small parks and avenues of tall trees all of these being kept very clean by squads of niggers constantly at work. After spending some time here having a general look round we made our way towards the native parts of the town. These parts of the town where the natives live & shop, although very interesting are the most filthy & degraded places eyes could possibly look upon, one visit being quiet sufficient for me. After visiting the native quarters we made our way to the Y.M.C.A. which was situated about the centre of the City in the Ezbekieh Gardens. These gardens are well layed out & after having a look round made our way to the Y.M.C.A. hut for tea, which was nicely served up at a very reasonable price, the place seeming to be under real good management. Tea being finished we decided to make our way back towards camp for it was then getting late so after half an hours travel we were back in camp & was soon in bed being well satisfied with our first days experiences in Egypt. On the 24th January I made arrangements with three mates to visit the Pyramids & Sphinx. We set out from camp about 10 A.M. after walking to Heliopolis caught the Electric train to Ciaro where we changed into a tram for the Pyramids which are at Mena. On alighting from the train at the terminus we found natives there with camels & donkeys which we used to take tourists to the Pyramids for the walking was extremely heavy across the desert. We decided to hire a camel each the charge being a shilling & was soon on our way being taken past the Pyramids to the Sphinx where we had our photo taken on the camels in front of the Sphinx. The Sphinx is a very peculiar structure having an animals body & the head of a man being made of huge blocks of stone beautifully carved but is now very much worn with age. After having a good look at the Sphinx we hired a black guide to show us over the ancient toombs of the old Egyptian Kings. Our guide was a real typical Egyptian always on the make &  each time he would finish explaining anything he would want to tell our fortunes but he did not succeed. Having had a real good look over the toombs which over to another guide to show us through inside. before entering we had to take our boots off for it was deemed sacred inside. we had to crawl through a small opening near the base then slide down a narrow passage about thirty yards long which was very slippery through constant use by tourist. The entrance was also very awkward for proved very interesting our guide took us to the main Pyramid & handed us others were getting out the same time as we were going in there being barely room in the passage for two people to pass. On reaching the bottom we had to climb up another passage about as long & wide as the one predescribed.

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At the top of this passage is a very big chamber sixty feet square & high, supposed to be the burial place of noted ancient Kings & there is still to be seen a huge granite coffin in the centre of the chamber. All this travelling inside the pyramid had to be done by candlelight, which the guide carried, making progress very slow & awkward for a missing of a foothold may mean a fall of considerable depth. After exploring the Kings chamber we descended the passage then along another, this one we were told was the burial place of the Ancient Queens. This chamber was much smaller than the Kings having nothing inside, so after seeing as much as possible fought our way back along the passages & was soon outside in the open air once more satisfied with our experiences. After putting our boots on it was decided to climb to the top outside which proved a very strenuous task but eventually reached the top which is 400 feet high. The top of the Pyramid has been levelled off so as to form a landing place for tourists who venture the climb, a pole being erected to show the original height. The view from the top is grand for one can see for miles with the naked eye, the patches of green pasture land around the Oasies on the desert giving a very peculiar yet beautiful sight. We spent some time on the top having a good look round, then set of for the ground below, setting out for home very tired & stiff after the days outing. We went back to camp via another route passing the Zoological Gardens, crossing over the River Nile by a very substantial bridge. The Nile is a very dirty looking river, having hundreds of house boats on it in which naives live, being crossed by a number of very finely built bridges. From the next day onward our reinforcement had to settle down to training which was a very big strain for we had done practically nothing since leaving Sydney. On the 27th January the whole camp was inspected by Lt. General Birdwood the Commander in Chief Australian Imperial Forces. The following day an old mate of mine who was in hospital suffering with a broken arm came to camp to see me so that night I went to see him as No 2 Australian Hospital. This place before the war was a big carpenters shop & situated right opposite Luna Park, used as another Australian hospital in Heliopolis. The following Sunday 30th January I went out to see Ghezireh Hospital, which is a fine big building situated on the left bank of the Nile, at that time being full of our wounded & sick. On Monday morning I was compelled to go on sick parade the giving me no duties through suffering with a cold in the kidneys through lying on the cold sand. Having nothing to do I wandered about looking a things I had previously seen also visiting Heliopolis on several occasions. Heliopolis is a very fine place, being well layed out and has numerous big white stone buildings & Australian Hospital of which the Palace is the largest. Situated near the camp was an Egyptian Grave yard which are very peculiar as the corpses are placed in the ground, then wet mud is heaped up high on the top & these cemetries are infested by ravens, big hawk like birds commonly called scavanges. On the 6th February I went to No 3 Auxiliary Hospital or as it was called the Sporting Club to see my mate who had been moved there from No 2 hospital. I met my mate & had a good look through the wards & gardens. The grounds are divided into, Polo ground, football fields & tennis courts, which are surrounded by beautiful hedges & gum trees. Adjoining the hospital grounds was a big Aerodromme which I also had a look through watching the planes on manoevoures which proved very interesting. I had tea at the hospital & after a good game of cards returned to camp well after lights out.

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The next few days were spent in drill, route marches & general training until the morning of the 14th February 1916 when the reinforcement was lined up & told we were being transferred to the 3rd Battalion & to get ready to move off that afternoon. This news came as a very great shock to all our boys for we fully expected to join the 18th Battalion, but however the boys took it for the best, so the camp was soon very busy for tents had to be struck, rolled up & stacked in a heap, the lines to be cleaned up & gear got ready to move off when required. The reinforcement fell in at 2 PM loaded up with all our gear & moved off marching to Zeitium railway station. We had a considerable wait for the train & when it arrived found it consisted of about fourty open trucks, thirty men being detailed to each truck & they with their gear left very little spare room it being a case of taking turn in sitting down. it was very cold during the journey for although the days are extremely hot in Egypt the nights get very cold, & with a fairly strong breeze blowing made the traveling in the open trucks very unpleasant all being pleased when the joy ride was over. After a few hours ride we disentrained at Tel-el-Kebir about 8 PM where we were met by officers & guided to the 3rd Battalion parade ground where after a roll call we were detailed to Companies myself being allotted to "A" Company. When this was completed we were shown to our company’s lines, there not being sufficient tent accommodation for us so we had to bivouac in the open for the night & were pleased when daylight came. The next morning the Battalion was formed up being inspected then started on squad & section drill which of course was very monotonous for we had done nothing else since enlisting. our parade ground was the old battlefield of the Soudan War the trenches which were used then are still to be seen. They are not like the trenches of today for instead of being dug into the ground, the earth is built up in mounds or breastworks about eight feet high & the mounds are neither connected or in line but just formed here & there is the best positions available. Practically the whole of the Australian Units were camp at Tel-el-Kebir the camp stretching for miles along the railway line through the desert. It was also here that our Fourth & Fifth Australian Divisions were formed mostly from 50% of the old first, four brigade the remained by reinforcements who were in Egypt at the time. Things went along very quiet; with the same old drill each day until the 21st of February when the Battalion was taken out for an all day route march passing through the village of Tel-el-Kebir. It is only a very small village but a very filthy place, the stench being enough to kill a mule & the natives themselves are of a very low class. On the outskirts of the village we passed some very big orchards & orange groves for oranges are grown in abundance throughout Egypt & as a rule are generally sold very cheaply & the boys made good use of the fruit whenever it could be bought. After passing the orchards we went out into the desert again & after marching about two miles came to a halt, where after a spell we were put through rifle shooting practice lasting for a couple of hours. When every man had completed his shooting the Battalion was lined up & after a long march arrived back in camp at dusk. On the 25th February the Battalion was taken right out into the desert for training in advancing & retiring in artillery formation also extended order drill these only being suitable for open warfare condition. When the necessary morning inspection was over on the 28th February the battalion was taken out for more shooting & by this time we were beginning to get used to the service life. The nights in this camp were like fairy land for the troops used to congregate outside the camp & for miles could be seen hundreds of candle lights. These lights were used for all means of gambling from the Australian national game of two up to

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the British game of "House". Gambling was practically the only means of enjoyment in the camp during the troops spare time for Picture Shows concerts were never though of. The following day the 29th things became very busy for orders were issued to strike camp & get ready to move this meaning a lot of work for tents had to be rolled up & stacked all gear being carried to the railway siding about five hundred yards away. I was detailed on bagage guard having to supervise the loading of the camp gear into trucks & before moving off the troops were issued with 150 rounds of ammunition each which had to be carried at all times from then on. When the battalion was already aboard the train at 10.30 AM the train started off back along the line towards Suez. On reaching Serapeum the train branched off on to a side line & after going about a mile the battalion disentrained at East Serapeum near the Suez Canal. On disentraining waggons met us which were used to carry the camp gear etc & when they were loaded we set on the march towards the canal. Before reaching the canal our way lay through some very deep sand which made the walking & pulling for the horses very heavy. When we arrived at the canal we found that it was crossed by means of a punt & a pontoon bridge. The pontoon was constructed of empty barrels & rafts built in sections each section consisting of four barrels & one raft held together by hardwood planks proving a very strong bridge & capable of carrying the heaviest of military traffic. This bridge was only laid across the canal for certain hours of the day on account of ships moving up & down the canal & when not in use would be disconnected in the centre each half being towed to the bank to which it was attached & tied up. When the pontoon was not across the punt would have to be used which was capable of carrying two double military limbers & was worked by the hand. Both these were worked & controlled by the First Australian bridging Team a separate branch of the Field Engineers who appeared to have a very decent time. The battalion crossed the Canal by means of the pontoon & on reaching the Arabian side found that a properly metalled road had been made. The march along this road lasted about a mile & a half when we were halted opposite a big camp which we afterwards occupied, the camp being founded in fairly deep sand. During our stay here the troops were issued with a pint of water per day it very often having to last for thirty six hours & had to be used for washing, drinking shaving purposes. On the 1st of March 1916 I had my first swim since leaving Sydney it being in the Suez Canal & was very acceptable. The canal at his point is about 110 yards wide & very deep. Dredges are constantly at work day & night cleaning it out for strong winds are very frequent which blow the sand about & the canal would soon fill up if this procedure was not adopted. Small Man-o-Wars & naval craft could be seen on patrol work & also stationed at different points along the canal. On the 2nd March the battalion was taken out in to he desert for a four hours route march with full gear up it proving very hard work for the sand in these parts is of a very loose nature & you go down of the tops of your boots each time you put your foot down. The 3rd of March being my Nineteenth Birthday it was celebrated with another long route march during which a sand storm started it lasting for a week. This storm made things most uncomfortable for everything inside our tents including our food became smothered in sand but of course that sort of thing had to be put up with. next day the 4th we were taken a short distance out into the desert for rifle shooting which was conducted on a thirty yards range each man firing five rounds.

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The next day the 5th March the battalion had to supply Divisional fatigues & I was detailed with twenty nine others for work on the canal. These duties were to last a week so had to roll up all of our kit & take our rifle equipment then set out to take over our duties. On arriving at the eastern side of the canal we found our home was to be in sand bag dug outs big enough for two or three men. our duties were to pull the punt across the canal which was worked by two chains one on each side of the punt the chains being attached to each side of the canal. The party was split into three having to work in shifts of four hours on duty & eight hours off. This work was only carried out when the pontoon was not across for then the traffic had to use the punt. There were also a great number of natives who used the punt & we made good use of them making them pull the punt across. These natives were engaged on road making & drivers of camel trains for the military their duties taking them backwards & forwards across the canal. During the stay there I saw quite a number of Troopships & Lines going up & down the canal especially of a night. I also saw two French gun boats the "Pistolet" & the "Fromde" a British monotor & several other naval craft & launches. This part of the canal was extremely busy with native boats which were used to carry stone for road making, water & supplies for the troops. During the time here we lived mostly in swimming attire having plenty of good food for the Army Service Corps ration dump was close by which was guarded by boys of my own company, so we adopted other means of procuring rations than being issued with them & midnight visits to the dump were very frequent. Plenty of fresh water was also available for the pumping station was only a few yards away from the camp & also the terminus of the light railway. This railway which was a minature arrangement was pulled by motor engines being used to take supplies, water & ammunition about eight miles out to the troops who were doing out post duties in the desert. our duties on the canal came to an end on the 12th of March none of us liking the idea of returning to camp routine after having such a good time but of course orders had to be obeyed so we returned to camp that night & settled down. On the 14th March we had musketry on the minature range after which the battalion was taken for a route march out along the road towards rail head in the morning & during the afternoon the troops were all inoculated. At 10 AM on the 15th March the battalion was fell in, the Brigade being formed up on the parade ground for a farewell inspection by General Seuval the ex Divisional commander who was then in charge of the 1st Anzac Mounted Division. During the inspection the inoculation of the previous day began to take effect on the troops for the hest was well over a hundred degrees in the shade. At least a quarter of the Brigade fainted or went out to it & by the time the inspection was completed the ranks were very thin. Next day things became quiet gain the company having more musketry in the morning & that afternoon I was detailed for the first guard since leaving Sydney the guard dismounting the following afternoon. During the next few days things remained very quiet with only the usual camp routine orders. The morning of the 19th March broke with a stir in camp for we had an early reveille having to get our camp & lines cleaned up as we were told the Prince of Wales & General Birdwood were to inspect the Division & lines that day. After falling in & waiting about till nearly midday the prince arrived on a beautiful black charger accompanied by an army of heads & military police. He looked quite a boy & when passing our lines the troops were

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that eager to have a glimpse of him that things ended in a rush crowding round the visiting group in disorder nothing sensational taking place. The following day the 20th March the battalion had a general kit inspection which was close in every detail, after which we were told that the battalion was to leave for France within twenty four hours. Next morning the camp was awakened by an early reveille and every thing was soon a hustle & bustle preparing for our departure which took place at 2.30 PM the 21st March when we marched back across the canal to East Serapium railway station. We had to wait until 8.30 PM before entraining so during the waiting hours we had tea after which a big fire was lighted with old cases & spare wood. When the fire started to burn properly the battalion assembled round it for a concert which proved a great turn out considering the circumstances & will live for ever in the memories of those who were present. When the train arrived at 8 o’clock we found it consisted of open trucks, the battalion gear being put aboard first then the troops after. The ride lasted about eight hours it being a very cold frosty night & no one enjoyed the ride in the open air & were all pleased when it ended.

Egypt to France
The train arrived at Alexandria about 7.30 AM on 22nd March going right down on to the wharf where orders were issued for the troops to disentrain it then being 8 AM. The sun was then shining brightly so all made good use of it to stretch their limbs & whilst waiting about the troops exchanged their Egyptian money into English silver at the Money Exchange Bureau which was situated on the wharf. our wait on the wharf lasted several hours & the battalion started to embark about 1.30 PM on the S.S. Grampian (Transport E620) an Imperial troopship which was armed with a six inch Naval gun situated on the aft gun deck. The ship untied & pulled away from the wharf about 6 PM steaming out of the harbour passing numbers of troopships, hospital boats & naval craft on the way out. The harbour, which is divided from the sea by a huge breakwater, is a fair size with a big berthing accommodation for large deep sea vessels & also has a very big coaling stage which is near the entrance. When the ship pulled out into the Meditteranean Sea twelve Vickers machine guns were mounted at different parts of the main deck thus adding more armament to the ship should it be attacked by an enemy submarine. The troops aboard were comprised of Brigade Headquarter staff & details, the brigade machine gun company & Trench morter battery & our battalion less the horse transport which had to go by horse boat. Throughout the voyage everybody was compelled to wear life belts at all times except when actually sleeping then the belts would have to be kept handy. The food was very poor aboard & not sufficient of it, for the ship had just returned for the Persian Gulf where it had taken Imperial troops & rations had not been replenished at Alexandria. I was put on ships guard on the 24th March which proved a

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very monotonous job having to last for twenty four hours. At 11 AM that night a big light like a fire could be seen on the port side some miles away which we were told was a transport with no troops aboard which had been blown up by the Huns. A few minutes past 11 o’clock a big British battleship crossed our bow passing close along side the ship looking like a big island in the dark. When the battleship passed to stern our ship put on extra speed which it maintained throughout the night. At 2 PM the next day 25th March we passed quite close to the island of Malta, which is a very pretty place to look at, but did not call in. During the 26th troops were all inoculated & the following day I was put on submarine guard for twenty four hours. That afternoon we arrived at France & our ship was pilotted into the harbour of Toulon by a Torpedo Boat Destroyer which came out to sea to meet us. We entered the Harbour which lay behind a big breakwater, just after the mid-day meal dropping anchor about the middle of it. Toulon is a very pretty & interesting place for right round the waters edge are numerous big beautiful white stone buildings with red tiled roofs which had lawns & gardens which gave the place a very picturesque appearance. Behind the main parts of the town are huge mountains & on the top of these could be seen Forts & look outs, these giving the place a very indomatible & snug appearance. At the head of the harbour could be seen the big naval station, dockyards & coaling stage & torpedo boats were moving about among the ships in the harbour. Ferry boats were busy running about to & fro & as each one passed our ship ringing cheers would go up from both French Civilians & our troops. During the afternoon the battalion band was prepared & that night we held a big concert aboard with musical selections it being the first piece of enjoyment the boys had had since the concert we had in Egypt before entraining. Near where our ship was anchored could be seen the remains of sunken vessel for the top of it was a few feet above water & rusted with age. It was about 8 AM next morning when we left Toulon breaching the open sea once more & once outside the harbour found that the weather was very unpleasant for the wind was blowing fairly strong & the sea was running high which caused a number of the troops to become sea sick. Being among those who did not suffer with sickness I was detailed on submarine guard which also included the guarding of battalion gear on the main deck which proved a very strenuous duty for each time the ship rolled, the gear would move about & my time was fully occupied in keeping it together. Our voyage lasted about six hours in which time we reached Marseilles after following the coast all the way. To find the entrance of the harbour here from the sea is a puzzle for it is bounded by a big break water, the entrance overlapping, but we were guided through the entrance & along passed the wharves by a pilot boat. Just prior to entering the harbour it started to rain but the troops were far too interested to notice & our band struck up the British & French national anthems. As we passed the different wharves deafening cheers rent the air from the French people of the wharves answered by our boys. Each wharf was guarded by a French soldier who were dressed in red & blue uniforms which presented a peculiar sight for present day soldiering. When the boat was tied up the gangways were swung, then I was detailed with a party to unload the baggage on to the wharf which was done by the ships cranes & when this duty was completed returned to our quarters aboard ship to have tea. The Marseilles harbour is a very fine & extensive place, the

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wharves are big structures with their large customs & storage sheds. At that time there was a considerable number of vessels which were engaged in war work berthed at different wharves loading & unloading. We did not disembark until dark & it was about 9.30PM when the troops started to leave the ship. The battalion was formed up in fours on the wharf & then marched to the railway station about half a mile away in rear of the wharves. On arriving at the station we were told to sit down until all the gear was loaded on the train it being about 1.30AM next morning before the troops were allowed aboard when I was lucky enough to secure a seat in a first class carriage. The train was of considerable length eight men being allotted to a compartment & with all their equipment it did not leave too much spare room. The French railway stations are much different to our own for the platform is only raised about a foot from the level of the line & the buildings are not so well finished off. After the train was in motion for a few hours we entered the wine growing districts for which France is famous & some of the vineyards were exceedingly pretty, for in place they cover hills the vines being brown up the slopes or where ever there may be room. In these southern districts, fruits of all kinds seemed to grow in abundance & at this time of the year the hedges, trees & vines are putting on their new foliage giving the country a very beautiful appearance. Whilst passing through the mountains snow could be seen on the highest peaks looking as though they had been covered with a big white cloth. On leaving the wine growing area we came into the pastoral country which is perfectly irrigated in small allotments & the young crops were then just beginning to show their head above ground for the air was full of springtime. The whole country seems to be a net work of roads which are nearly all white metalled, the main roads being avenues of tall tree which grow to a considerable height. The train took us quite close to Paris where it branched off & we were very much disappointed for all were anxious to have look at the city of note which we had heard & read so much about in history. On getting up north we passed quite close to the English Channel where the masts of some sunken vessel could be seen above the water from the train as we passed. The train passed through the outskirts of Calais which appeared to be a fine place & shortly after passing Calais the train passed close to a huge Dirigible Airship & its hanger which was the first most of us had ever seen. our ride came to an end disentraining about 4PM on 31st March 1916 at a siding about a mile & a half north of Hazebrouck in Flanders after a sixty hour ride all being stiff & sore through being cramped up so long in the train. Throughout the whole of the trip we were treated very well by the French people who gave the troops bread & wine & at several towns along the route the train pulled into sidings where we were given hot tea with (Cognac) in it & was very acceptable. The troops were very pleased with the reception that was given them by the French people but were unable however to fully appreciate their kindness due to the fact that by instructions we were strictly confined to the train for every time the train would stop anywhere sentries were posted along the line to prevent men from getting off & accepting bread & other things that were offered by the civilians; we were not even allowed off to fill our water bottles. Throughout the whole of the trip a very noticeable thing was that nearly all the French people were dressed in black & old

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men, women & children could be seen working in the fields & vineyards taking the place of the young & middle aged men who were in the army. At every every station numbers of young women & children would collect asking us for souvenirs & nearing Calais we came across groups of kiddies who cried out for bully beef & biscuits which were readily given by the troops. Whilst waiting in the railways yards the troops were issued with rations some being allowed to fill their water bottles & after about an hours wait the battalion set off on the march for billets. After we marched for some time the column was halted & told to sit down this rest lasting about an hour when we fill in & continued the march for another hour when we were again halted. When we resumed we proceeded a short distance to a farm where we were told to make ourselves comfortable in a barn for the night & it was not long before all were well asleep. On awakening next morning I found we had been sleeping in the same barn as a number of pigs but however after having breakfast the battalion was fallen in & my platoon was marched to the billet which had been found for us & the one it transpired we should have occupied the night previous. In this billet which consisted of two sheds of a farm, there was only room for our platoon (60 men) the remainder of the battalion was distributed throughout the surrounding district accommodated in small billets similar to the one we were in. When the troops were settled down in the billet leave was granted for the remainder of the day it then being 11AM. As soon as it was known than leave had been granted several of us formed a party to have a look round the district in which we were billeted. The country was most interesting the fields being green with new crops which was very pleasing to see after the deserts of Egypt. After walking for about half an hour we came to a small wayside inn (called an "Estaminet" where we had a good meal, the old Frenchman who owned the place becoming very friendly with us making us feel very much at home. When the meal had been disposed of we set out on the walk once more & after going some distance came to the town of Hazebrouck. This town proved very interesting for it had some very fine big buildings of which the "cathedral" is the largest & like all other European towns has its big market square in the centre of the town. At that time there was a fair population, but amusements were very scarce which we were told was due to the war. After having tea we left the town for our billet which proved to be a very long walk for in the excitement of our first day on leave in France we had travelled much farther than it appeared. It was 9PM when we arrived back at our billet & being very tired after the days outing it was not long before we were tucked into bed, so far felling satisfied with our experiences, & particularly with all we had seen during the trip, from the Suez Canal right through to the north of France, which had lasted Eleven days.

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France
When our platoon fell in for parade next morning 2nd April 1916 everyone realized that our soldiering days were about to start in ernest, but just how long it would be before the battalion went into action none of us could say. After the necessary inspection & roll call the platoon was marched by our Sergeant to Company headquarters some half mile away were the usual drill was indulged in. The training of the Battalion here took place in companies for owing to the way in which the battalion was scattered about it was far more convenient. During the next few days things moved along very quietly with only the usual daily routine of drill. At the completion of the morning parade on the 6th April company scouts were called for so with several others I volunteered & we were instructed to report to battalion headquarters in Eblinghem three miles away at 2PM so as soon as dinner was over we proceeded on our journey. On arriving at headquarters we found that there were men there from each of the other companies of the battalion & a Sergeant took charge of the party taking us to a field in rear of the village where he put us through a course of map reading & study of the ground as it affected military operations. These instructions which proved very interesting lasted two hours when at the end of that time the party was dismissed & we made our way back to the billet at Wallen-Cappel. Next morning on parade the company was issued with gas helmets known as the "P.H." type which was made of flannelette which had been soaked in a specially prepared chemical, two glass eye pieces & a mouth piece with a valve attached for breathing purposes. When the issue was completed the company was marched to Eblinghem where the battalion assembled in the grounds of an old chateau for instruction in the adjusting, wearing, & testing of the gas helmet. For the test a gas cylinder with gas issuing from it, was placed in the bottom of a trench, which had been dug for the purpose, through which the troops had to pass without a helmet on to illustrate the effects of the weeping gas which was used by the huns, making the eyes smart & water very much. The next few days were spent in long route marched with full gear on & these being blue metalled & cobbled roads proved very hard walking after the soft sands of Egypt making the boys feet very sore. Our stay at Wallen-Cappel came to an end on the 10th April orders being received the night previous to pack up ready to move out after breakfast next morning. When the time for fall in arrived on the 10th everyone was ready & after the roll call, our platoon set off to join the company where we had to wait for the remainder of the battalion to arrive before going further. Our rest did not last very long & on the arrival of the other three companies we fell in; our company taking the lead, headed by the band. The route the battalion was following lay in an easterly direction which we all guessed was towards the front line, which proved to be correct for after proceeding a short distance the faint rumble of big guns could be heard, these sounds becoming more pronounced the further we marched. The column passed through the towns of Hazebrouck & Strazelle where the inhabitants lined the road cheering the boys as they passed. The march proved to be very hard before it finished; covering a distance of ten miles with only two rests, going as far as the outskirts of Moolonacker where we were billetted in a big farm

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During our stay at Moolonacker the training chiefly consisted of small route marches & on one occasion the battalion was inspected by General Walker the Divisional Commander which took place during some very heavy rain. Whilst here the battalion was issued with steel helmets or commonly called "Tin Hats" by the troops which added a few more pounds in weight to our equipment. There were no sizes to these hats which had a broad chin strap & very heavy rubber lining for comfort also to take the force of the shock should it be hit. Close by the billet was a divisional bath which consisted of a number of hot showers which were heated by a stationary steam engine. The troops were able to get a clean change of under clothing providing they handed in a dirty article when it would be exchanged for a clean, the dirty clothes would then be washed by Frenchwomen who were employed by the military for such duties, then be reissued as clean. The battalion was timed to leave Moolonacker on the 16th April but did not get away till four days later owing to practically everyone of us becoming infested with body lice we were occupied that time in getting rid of the vermin. During the afternoon parade on the 19th our company was warned to be ready to move off next morning also being told we were going up close behind the front line. Reveille was at 4.15 AM on the 20th & all the company gear & blankets had to be rolled up & placed on the battalion transport waggons & at 6.30AM we fell in & started to march. The route lay mostly through back roads which were very narrow, lined on either side by a green hedge. We also passed through several small villages & after marching for several hours a halt was called temporary billets being occupied on the western outskirts of the town of Sailly. it was during this march that the troops realized that they were going into action most of us for the first time & the feelings were a mixture of curiosity & serious meditation. Our stay in this billet lasted five hours for at dusk the company was fallen in, & set off on the march passing through the town of Sailly which at a much earlier date had been shelled by the Huns & the ruins were very numerous. Before starting the march our felt hats had to be rolled up & put into our packs for steel helmets were to be worn on account of going into the forward area this being the first time we wore the helmets which proved to be very heavy & hot to the head for they lacked ventilation. After crossing a railway line about a mile beyond Sailly the company was order to advance in artillery formation, which meant small parties in single file at intervals, as we were then approaching the very forward area precautions being necessary although it was dark. The reasons for small parties at intervals was to prevent more men than necessary being killed by one shell should the enemy open out with artillery. Finally we reached our billet in reserves which was occupied by "C" Company of the 9th Battalion who we relieved then shown to our place in the billet. The building was two story high my platoon being allotted to the top floor where we found several shell holes in the roof for it transpired that Fritz had made an artillery target of the place. That night we found to our surprise that the lice which we had been infested with at Moolonacker had proved very fortunate for our company, but terribly unlucky for "C" Company 9th Battalion for on account of our delay they had been sent up to this position in our place. When we arrived up at the billet to relieve them we found that during that day Fritz had been shelling the place obtaining two or three direct hits on the billet causing seventy five casualties to the company. When we turned in to bunk that night our felling was far from the best for taking over the billet in the dark none of us knew exactly where we were & guns were firing all round us.

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Next morning the 21st April was Good Friday & after breakfast the company had to clean up the mess that Fritz had made the previous day also bury the men who had been killed. This was rather a very severe introduction to active service for most of us but it was taken in the right spirit. The day was celebrated by plenty of big gun fire, during the afternoon Fritz again paid great attention to our billet the troops being ordered to get out into the field & not to stand in groups so as to save casualties. All the Huns efforts were in vain for although a considerable number of shells were fired our way neither the billet or any men were hit & he grew tired of his wontfulness towards evening. To most of us this sort of thing was extremely new & the feelings were quite strange but the fear of the shelling was broken by occasional air duels which were quite a novelty even to the very old soldiers who boasted of their long service. Another sight that day was the shelling of houses by Fritz not far away & he gained many a hit showing to us what a shell was capable of doing for in some cases one shell would almost level a house to the ground at the same time setting fire to it. The shelling started to cease about dusk & by the time it grew dark had stopped altogether when tea was served after which the company was fallen in with all gear on ready to move. Before moving orders were issued for everyone to remain as quiet as possible during the march which was to be in small parties in single file with intervals between each. The march was only about half a mile when we were taken into a big farm yard each platoon being allotted to different parts of a huge barn which proved a very comfortable billet with plenty of straw to sleep on & was not so open to observation to Fritz as the previous one. The next couple of days was spent in rifle exercises in rear of the billet also digging of trenches in the farm yard which were to be used as shelter trenches should the enemy shell the billet at any time. After an early tea on the 24th of April 1916 fatigue parties were detailed for work in the front line. At dusk the party started to move off in groups of ten at intervals along a road towards the front line which was lined on either side by tall hedges until we reached a big two storied house known as :V.C." House. On arriving at this house we entered a communication trench known as "V.C> trench for it was this particular place that O’Leary an Irishman won his Victoria Cross in 1914 & was thus how this house & trench received their names. This trench was of considerable length winding about like a huge snake being well built with revetted sides, having a duck board floor & about eight feet deep. Half way along the trench lay the support line which was also very well built. On arriving at the front line we found it consisted of a huge breastwork about eight feet above the ground, instead of a trench dug below the level of the ground, & our duties were to enlarge the sand bag parapet under the supervision of the engineers. This being the first time most of the troops had been in the front line they were naturally very curious & inquisitive & being an exceedingly quiet sector many a head was above the parapet gazing into the inky darkness towards the enemy lines which was occasionally lighted up by hun’s flares. our work proved long & strenuous occupying most of the night for it was just before daylight that the party was got together then started for the billet which was reached about daylight when breakfast was ready after which the troops enjoyed a well earned rest. This day 25th April being the anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli the Anzacs were given a special ceremonial

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parade after which they were given an extra issue of rations to celebrate the occasion. Next morning 26th April the company was fallen in for fatigue moving off in small parties with intervals towards the front line. During all such movements as these all advantages of cover had to be taken as the enemy observations ballons were visable, movements having to be concealed as much as possible for we were well within the range of Fritz’s smallest quick firing field machine guns. On arriving at the trenches parties were detailed with an engineer in charge of each party being shewn to their respective duties which consisted mainly of rebuilding & revetting & strengthening the communication trenches & support lines. After a fair days work we arrived back at the billet about four o’clock where we found tea ready waiting for us. When tea was finished & the troops had had a wash the company was again fallen in for fatigue & by this time dark was setting in. It was not long before the company moved off to a light railway depot & engineers dump. here the troops had to load gear for trench making on to the trucks then with a few men detailed to each truck had to push them to the front line where the gear was unloaded. These Light railway tracks were troubled considerably by enemy machine guns of a night & no time was lost by the troops in getting to the end of the journey. It also often happened that these lines had been hit by a shell which meant the trucks would have to be unloaded lifted over the damaged part of the line the loaded again. The language at such times as these would make a moonlight night black for it generally happened when the enemy took it into his head to get busy with his machine guns. The duties this night were very hard all being pleased when the party had finished & lined up then started for home.
[Image includes a hand drawn sketch titled "Rough Sketch Front Line Sector Levantie Front Occupied by 3rd Battn From 3.5.1916 To"]

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While going home along the road that night our party was challenged by an English artilleryman on sentry work it taking some considerable time to make him understand who we were & where we were going, for about these parts spies were supposed to be in abundance & strictest precautions were necessary especially at night time. it was a very tired party thet arrived back at the billet & was not long before all were well asleep after fourteen hours work that day. Next morning after breakfast the company was fallen in & taken for a bath which came as a luxury to us for it was some time since we had had one. The march to the baths was quite five miles there & back, Fritz shelling the party on the way there but we were lucky for no one was hit although some shells fell close. At 11PM that night the troops were aroused from their slumber by an alarm, having to get into their full gear then assemble in the yard of the billet this having to be done in the dark. The fall in lasted for half an hour when, the troops were told that the hun was bombarding & using gas on the sector on our left, after which the company was dismissed orders having been received for everyone to remain in their clothes for the night. On the 28th April 1916 the company was again detailed on fourteen hours fatigue as predescribed finishing about midnight. During our spare moments of the day while in this billet the troops would sit watching our artillery on the straffing business, the gun pits & position being well concealed in Hay stack, old barns & behind hedges, in every case being very hard to find with a naked eye. After an early reveille on 30th April the company was sent on fatigue at 7AM to the front line when we had to stay working with engineers all that day & most of the night arriving back at the billet about midnight tired out. The next couple of days were spent in & about the billet with very little to do & this being the first real spell the boys had had for some time they fully appreciated it.

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On the 23rd May 1916 orders were received to pack up ready to move forward that night so all hand busied themselves for the first trip to the front line in France. It was after dark when the company started to move going along the road towards "V.C." House where we entered "V.C." Communication trench. On reaching the support line my platoon relieved a platoon of the 1st Battalion, when we were told our platoon was to act as supports to the remainder of the company who had gone right into the firing line. Our duties while in supports were to carry rations for our company from an old farm house in rear of "V.C." House where the battalion transport used to bring them just after dark, the rations having to be carried to Company Headquarters in the front line. That night whilst relieving, the 1st Battalion told us that several nights previous, the Germans had put a placard out in front of their lines saying "It is an insult to the German Army for them to have to fight the Australians who are a lot of low-down criminals, thieves & murderers". A 1st Battalion Sergeant went out the next night & brought the placard in when our interpreter answered by writing the following on the same placard. "We are all that, we are cold footed, afraid of lead & steel, come over & take our trenches", but our challenge was not answered. The troops were aroused from their slumber fore daybreak next morning for it was there I learned that all troops occupying positions in the front & support lines throughout the whole army had to Stand to Arms for half an hour before daylight until half an hour after day break & the same of an evening. The above proceedure was carried out as a safe guard for past experiences had proved it was generally at these times of the day that the enemy generally attacked. During the "stand to" on the evening of the 6th of May a bombardment started on our left, orders being received to remain at the stand to until further orders for it was learned that Fritz as using gas as well as artillery on our left. I learned latter that it was the Second Aussie Division who bore the brunt of the stunt on our left & although they suffered heavy losses they never lost any ground. During the afternoon of the 7th of may our platoon was sent forward to relieved Bo 2 platoon in the front line they moving back to the position we had occupied in supports. When our relief was completed that night I was detailed to act as one of a covering party to another party who were to do barb wiring in no mans land. The covering party were instructed to fill the magazine of their rifle with ammunition, fix their bayonets & cover the bayonets with a piece of sand bag to prevent them shining whilst out in no mans land thus preventing the party from being observed by the enemy. When both the covering & wiring parties were ready, about twelve men all told with a corporal in charge we started to move. This being my first time in no mans land I was naturally very curious. We were led out through a "sally port" (a small opening in the trench) then through the barb wire which was about thirty feet thick at this particular point. When the outside of the wire was reached the wiring party was halted & our covering party taken about another hundred yards forward where we were spread out with an interval of about twenty yards between each man being told to lie down & remain quiet. our instruction were to keep a sharp look out for any enemy movement & protect the wiring party from enemy patrols. The work had only been started a short while when we received orders to get back to the front line trench where we learned that the Welsh Fusaliers who were on our immediate right were about to give the huns a bombing. When back in the front line I was detailed as a sentry at a Sally port having to occupy this post while the Welsh carried out their stunt. The above attack proved a great success with very few casualties but I never learned

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how the stunt was carried out or the objects of it but anyway it made Fritz angry who retaliated with artillery & machine guns thus showing us what real warfare meant. It was that night that I fired my first shot at the enemy on active service but being dark did not know the result of the shot. The life in the front line was very quiet as far as warfare was concerned for it was simply a matter of garrison duty for at that time neither side was on the offensive but consolidating the forward positions. The front lines were about three hundred & fifty yards apart which meant that a lot of patrol work was necessary of a night to try & find out what the enemy was doing. The weather was a mixture of rain & sunshine & during the sunny days the boys used to bath in a fair size creek which ran close behind the front line. Our front line was not dug into the ground but a breastwork about ten feet high the parapet being about twelve feet thick through the top & being very well built. During the early evening of the 15th of May the Welsh on our right gave Fritz a rifle & machine gun demonstration which lasted about twenty minutes breaking the monotony of trench life a little. My duties whilst in this position were chiefly barb wiring fatigues in no mans land, one night it would be on the covering party & the next on wiring work. our wiring party was extremely lucky for although we were in no mans land nearly every night, & on several nights fritz opened out on us with his machine guns we never suffered one casualty in the party. Sniping was carried out by both sides fairly extensively but very few casualties resulted from this practice although it had its demoralizing effect upon the troops. During the afternoon of the 19th may the enemy opened out with artillery fire on our front lines causing five casualties in the company also knocking the parapet about in a number of places. When the shelling ceased orders were received to pack all our gear as the battalion was to be relieved that night. it was 11.30PM that night when the 9th battalion arrived to relieve us, & on being relieved our company started to leave the trench in sections in single file. The march to the billets proved to be long & tiring before it finished it being nearly daybreak before the boys lay down to rest in a big barn at Croix-de-Bac about two miles on the western side of Sailly. The total number of casualties for the battalion during that turn in the front line was fifty one & including killed wounded & sick. The boys were not troubled very much for the first couple of days in the new billet but were told to have a good rest, also clean all their gear ready for the parade ground. During the afternoon of the 21st of May the boys were taken for a hot bath & change of clothing which was much appreciated by all. After a few days rest our battalion was put on Divisional duties which consisted of trench digging & consolidating on the Armentieres sector slightly to the left of the previous position the battalion occupied. The duties were very strenuous for reveille was very early then the troops had to march eight miles to the job, then work all day, arriving back home about dusk & these duties lasted some days. During the evening of the 30th of May a big artillery duel opened, both sides having a fair say & although the battalion was some miles behind the line orders were received to get into battle order & stand to ready to move off in case of emergency for it was thought that the enemy was about to attack. On the 1st of June our Brigade was inspected by

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Mr Fisher, High Commissioner, & Mr Hughes Prime Minister of Australia. For this parade the brigade was assembled in a big paddock close by our billet at 10AM the inspecting party arriving about 1PM & by that time the troops were in a very bad mood caused by the three hours wait. When the visitors arrived by car they were taken onto a platform which had been erected for the occasion, where a few short speeches were delivered, then the parade dismissed. The next few days were spent very quietly about the billet engaged in parade ground work of a very mild nature. Reveille was at 2.30AM on the 5th of June & as soon as all had dressed & fallen in the battalion set of on a fifteen mile route march before breakfast. Throughout the whole of the march it rained making things very uncomfortable but we were reminded of the fact that we were soldiers having to do as we were ordered. it was 10.30AM when we arrived back at the billet everyone being in a bad humour & heaping curses upon the "Heads" who were responsible for the mornings manoevoures. That afternoon the company was given instruction in modern bayonet fighting by an Imperial Sergeant Major. During the next couple of days things settled down with only the usual routine of parade ground work to do. Whilst in these billets the troops used to spend their spare time & money in the neighbouring villages & taking everything into consideration all were well pleased with the place. The battalion became busy on the 9th of June for orders were received to pack all gear ready to move to the forward area again. The move took place at dusk that night, my company going to an old school in the ruined village of Fleur-Baix where we relieved a company of the 7th Battalion. A couple of days previous to moving to this place we were told about the death of Lord Kitchener which came as a very severe blow to all the troops. During the stay in the School at Fleur-Baix the company was engaged on engineers fatigue such as trench digging & consolidating the front line & support positions. I was very lucky, for the day following the arrival at Fleur-Baix I was detailed as company orderly which meant remaining in the billet, thus missing all fatigue work having very little to do. During the spare moments of the day I managed to have a look round the village which had suffered severely from the enemies artillery, the ruins being very numerous, but there were a few french people who remained in the place in shops selling wearing to the soldiers & they were fairly well patronized by the boys. During the stay there, "B" Company who were quartered in a big barn near the front line were shelled by Fritz who succeeded in gaining several direct hits on the place, finally setting the place on fire the place having to be evacuated. The above shelling caused a considerable amount of excitement with several casualties but luckily no one was killed. That night "B" Company was moved back to our billet new gear was issued to the company to replace the gear that had been burned in their billet. our stay lasted at Fleur-Baix until dusk of the 23rd of June when the battalion moved forward passing through a long communication trench called "Dead Dog Avenue" to the front line where we relieved the 1st Battalion. The relief was carried out without a casualties & it only being the second time most of us had been in the front line we were still very curious but it was very much similar to the last part of the line we occupied. The front line was very strongly built with plenty of dugouts & shelter for the troops from the enemies fire. Just in rear of the front line was the remains of an old convent which had been considerably knocked about & practically all that could be seen was two of the walls that enclosed the convent grounds & even these had been blown about by shell fire

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Whilst in this part of the front line I was detailed with a party on barb wiring in no mans land of a night & on several occasions fritz kept our heads buried in the ground with his machine guns & our party suffered one casualty. Just at dusk on the 26th June 1916 we saw one of our aeroplanes set fire to three enemy observation balloons in succession it being a great sight to see these big flames in kid air. During the stay in the front line both sides were busy with their artillery & trench mortars we having to suffer some very heavy bombardments which caused a large number of casualties. It was generally our people who started the bombardments & Fritz would retaliate with so much vengeance & if it had not been for the strength of our forward positions far more casualties would have been caused. patrol work was also carried out on a very large scale in no mans land of a night & it was during one of these that the battalion captured their first prisoner in France. He proved to be a sniper belonging to the Jacquer regiment being allowed to roam about the German front line sniping at any target which may show itself & he gave valuable information when brought back to out front line. At the time he was captured he was in no mans land seeking a position to do sniping the following day but showed no resistance on being captured by the patrol. The weather remain fine during this turn in the front line the troops being able to have a good sun bath of a day when things were quiet & the rations were also good & regular. During the still hours of the nights the rumble of big guns could be heard away to the south which caused the boys to wonder what was in progress. We were unexpectedly relieved by the 45th Battalion during the night of the 4th of July having to march about seven miles to a big billet in the centre of Sailly all being very tired when the march ended. it was not long before all were in bed asleep but there
[The image shows a full page hand drawn sketch of German territory, No Mans Land and Australian sectors around Fleurbaix village]

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proved to be very little sleep for anyone that night for the boys were awoken after midnight by a gas alarm, everyone having to stand to with their gas masks on this lasting for some considerable time. When to boys finally settled down for a well earned rest in was breaking day but they were allowed to sleep until midday when a good meal was issued & all made good use of it. The stay in the billet at Sailly lasted several day the troops having very little to do there having a good rest so I made use of the spare time in having a good look round the ruins of the town. The ruins were numerous houses being completely demolished by shell fire & the old church was considerably damaged many direct hits having been obtained but the steeple was still intact. The only drill we had was a few short route marches & during one of these the battalion was taken through the town of Estaires. It is a fine big place with terraces of big which stone buildings having a fair population & at that time used as a big railway centre by the military authorities. The battalion left Sailly with full gear up on the 9th July & after a long march, passing through the village of Outerstiene was finally halted in a big paddock on the outskirts of Merris. Before the battalion was dismissed a general kit inspection was held by the Colonel, this occupy about an hour. That night we had to bivouac in the open with the sky for a roof all being pleased when the sun shone next morning. Late the following afternoon the 10th the battalion set of again marching to the railway yards at Ballieul where we had to wait until 3 AM next morning when the troops were entrained in cattle trucks. Bailleul appeared to be a fine big place from what could be seen of it whilst passing through in the dark. The troops were not extra comfortable about the train for they were cramped forty men to a truck & they with all their occupied every square inch of room available. Before the train moved I was detailed as one of a train piquet

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the duty being to prevent men from getting off the train when ever it may stop, & these duties were welcome for it meant I was able to stretch my legs when the train stopped anywhere. The train journey lasted about seven hours proving a very monotonous ride for the train was continually stopping & all the boys were pleased when we received the order to disentrain at Fienvillers. When the troops had all lined up in the railway yard the battalion was marched to an adjoining field where breakfast was partaken of also a very necessary rest. The spell lasted about an hour, at the end of which time the battalion was lined up starting off on the march. That day we marched fifteen miles passing through several small villages finally reaching the billets allotted to us at St Ouens about dusk. St Ouens proved a very fine town, being a big mining centre & that night the troops had a very good time for we were the first Australians in that town & naturally the French people were very curious being very nice to all the boys. It was late that night when the boys made their way to bed for in most cases they were overtired with the day experiences. The stay in this town was only short for just after dinner the next day the battalion moved off again going to Vignacourt about four miles distant. All the houses & troop billets in this village were fitted out with electric Light but the place was practically deserted of inhabitants but it was used as a big army rail head for stores & gun parks. By this time the troops knew that they were in the Somme District & making for the front line area where the big offensive was in full swing. The battalion left Vignacourt next morning the 13th July marching as far as Allonville where we were put into tents it being the first time in tents since leaving Egypt. The ground on which we were encamped belonged to the big brandy distillers of Hennesseys but at that time the distillery was not working & the grounds & buildings had been taken over by the Military authorities. The whole of the 1st Brigade was billetted in & around Allonville, three battalions being encamped in the same grounds as us. The distillery grounds was also a big concentration ground for packs belonging to soldiers who had been killed or wounded in the big offensive & at the time we were there, there were some thousands of these packs which we were told were to be inspected & all private gear separated from military issue. The stay at Allonville lasted three days during which time the Brigade was trained in wood fighting for our turn in the big offensive which we knew was not far distant. Close by where we were camped was a big aerodrome & the troops spent their spare time of a day in watching the manoeuvres of the planes in ascending & descending. After parade of a day the troops would congregate in the village square & it was here that I saw the largest "two up" schools in my life for hundreds of pounds were at stake each time the pennies were spun, the troops taking their wins, with their losses in a real sporting way. The battalion left Allonville on the 16th July passing through several small village to the town of Warloy where we were billetted. Warloy is a fair size town & at that time had a fair population also several military hospitals & big ammunition & store dumps. Whilst there the battalion was reorganized the platoons being made complete fighting units comprising of four sections as follows, Riflemen, Wire Cutters, Bombers Machine Gunners & each section was issued with colored armlets to represent their section so as they could be identified on sight. I was detailed with the wire cutters being issued with a navy blue armlet two inches wide which had to be worn on both arms above the elbow. A piece of pink material four inches square was also issued to each man having to be sewn on the back of the tunic just below the neck band.

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This material was to be used in the offensive to assist the aeroplanes to locate the front line troops in the event of an advance so as to supply the information to the artillery to prevent them from shelling our own men. Our billet was situated on the main road in Warloy & almost every day Imperial units were marching back from the their turn in the front line & there much depleted ranks showed they had all suffered severely in the big advance. During the afternoon of the 19th July 1916 the battalion moved off marching to big fields on the western side of Albert where a halt was called orders being received for all men to get their gear ready in battle order. our packs had to be stacked by companies as we were unable to carry them in action with all the extra gear which had been issued to us. The extra gear consisted of 2 mills bombs, 100 additional rounds of ammunition, biscuits & bully beef per man besides wire cutters & several other things which were distributed among the platoons. Whilst waiting here the hustle & bustle of the big Somme offensive could be noticed for strings of horse & motor traffic were going to & from the forward area mixed in with thousands of troops their being absolutely no sign whatever of disorder. We moved off at dusk fully laden for war passing through Albert then along roads & across fields until we reached the first line of big guns in a big gully known as "Sausage Gully". When the far end of this gully was reached the "Gas Alarm" was given all the troops having to "don" their helmets which made further progress slow & awkward in the dark. After a long & tiring march through old barb wire & delapitated trenches we finally relieved the Welsh (Royal) Regiment in supports, the 1st & 2nd Battalions taking over the front line. Next morning I was detailed with a party to carry rifle ammunition & bombs from "Jackson’s Dump" in "Sausage Gully" to the front line a distance of about three miles being subjected to heavy shell fire the whole of the way. These duties were to last a couple of days so orders were issued for all men on fatigue work to take their gear & camp in an old trench near the light railway dump so of course I had to move. Round where we were camped were hundreds of guns, practically wheel to wheel, of all calibre from the big howitzers to the small field pieces, who were constantly firing day & night on the German positions. At least one a day they would all join in a general bombardment the noise being terrific for being in a gully the sounds would re echo especially at night. During these fatigue duties we often had a few spare moments which I spent in having a look round the ground recently captured by the Imperial troops. In the old no man’s land was an enormous mine crater at La Bassee which had been sprung by the British during the first hop over on the 1st of July 1916 & from all accounts had been very disastrous for the Huns. The were some very great sights of war engineering by the Huns especially in their original front line which was a great structure being very deep & wide the sides being well revetted. There were also numerous big dugouts about sixty feet below the surface & many of these burrows were fitted with electric light, acetaline gas, store rooms, kitchens & sleeping appartments with wire bunks & tables & chairs were very much used. Near the big mine crater in the front line was big underground hospital which had every comfort for hospital use installed & at the foot of one of the stairways could be seen the body of a dead German nurse. The remains of the German’s barb wire entanglements showed that our artillery lien had practically destroyed every inch of it before the troops advanced. During Friday morning the 21st July I received orders to report back to the company another man being sent on fatigue in my place. About dusk that night our company was taken to a sunken road just in rear of the front line where each man was

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given about nine feet of trench to dig but this being in blue metal it was not finished by daylight when the company was taken back to supports. During the afternoon of 22nd July 1916 we were told that, that night or early next morning the battalion was going over the top every man being issued with more bombs & ammunition which was to be carried during the stunt. The troops were also told that the stunt consisted of three objectives on our sector, the 1st Battalion were to take the first & second objectives, C V D company of our battalion taking the third objective with A & B Company 3rd Battalion in reserves. Having been in reserves & up about the front line for a few days also knowing the concentration of artillery on both sides the troops fully realized that the contemplated advance we were expected to make was by no means a joke, but defeat or being repulsed by the huns was a thing not dreamed of. This stunt to me, like to a lot of others, was to be my first real experience of warfare & although the consequences caused a considerable amount of thought, reputation conquered the fear which at times crept into my inward feelings. At dusk that night our company was moved forward to the trench we had partly dug the night previous & was told that it was for our own benefit to deepen the trench for we were to use it as reserves during the opening barrage of the advance. The boys were soon hard at work with pick & shovel & after a few hours strenuous toil had it down shoulder deep, then all hands sat down in the bottom of the trench patiently waiting the awful moment. our bombardment opened out about midnight & our first shells had hardly hit the earth when the huns artillery answered with equal violence. The noise was deafening & as the seconds passed it grew in intensity, many casualties being caused in the trench. I was lying waiting for the word to move forward. The suspence while in that position under such an inferno was absolutely beyond all human description but when orders were given for us to occupy the original front line the strain was lifted considerably for everyone was anxious to be doing something to occupy their thoughts. On receipt of the order to move we started off along the trench towards the front line passing several of our company who had been killed or wounded during the barrage. The huns artillery was still very active & owing to the trench being blown in, in places progress was very slow. When I reached the end of the trench the Company commander & Company Sergeant major were there giving instructions which way to proceed to the front line & I afterwards learned both these men where hit whilst in that place the Sergeant Major being killed & the Captain wounded. On leaving the trench, which came to a dead end, I found I had about thirty yards to go to the front line which was done so quick as possible for the shells were still falling fast & furious. On arriving in the front line which was to left of the sunken road I had just left I learned from some of the wounded there that the 1st Battalion had taken the First V Second objectives & our "C & D" companies were on their way to the Third objective. We received orders to remain in the old front line trench which at that time was still subjected to Fritz’s searching artillery fire many casualties being caused through this practice. I had a miraculous escape while in this trench for I was sitting in a small dug out when an order was passed along to move which we did but I only moved about a yard when the company was halted & the man following me sat in the dug out I had just evacuated & had hardly sat down when a shell pierced

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the roof of the dugout killing the man outright. Just before daylight orders were received for our company to go forward which we did going to a hedge on the edge of the village of Pozieres where we found the Battalion all busy digging in. By this time things had quietened down considerably & I also learned that the position was taken much easier than expected, the casualties being very few considering the amount of artillery that had been brought to bear on our troops. it was not long before our company was busy at work on reaching the front line but the work of consolidation was no easy matter for the earth was simply battered in to dust by our artillery fire previous to the attack. However after a few hours heavy working a trench was made the sides being supported by sand bags & whatever timber could be gathered from the edge of the village. Engineers were sent forward to make strong points in front & rear of the front line for it was expected that the enemy would counter attack as soon as he could reorganise. A Communication Trench was also dug back to the old German front line where it was connected up by a trench which had been dug by the 1st Pioneer Battalion during the night of the attack. At daybreak & well into the morning Huns could be seen running about in the village, most of them being without either rifle or equipment, but owing to orders, our troops were not allowed to go in pursuit or to open fire except in individual cases where men were told off as snipers to keep the enemy under control. The idea of this was to prevent the enemy from locating the exact position of our new front line trench so as to cause a surprise in the event of an attack also to deceive the enemy’s artillery as much as possible. The work of getting the wounded away was also a big thing to be reasoned with, for all stretcher carrying had to be done overland as the communication trench was not wide enough for this purpose. There was also a serious shortage of stretchers which meant the delay of getting the more serious cases out but those who could be carried by their mated on their back were taken as far as the forward dressing station which by daylight was established in Fritz’s old front line. The whole of the forward area seemed to be a seathing mass of khaki clad figures for all the different Units were engaged on their respective duties of consolidation for it was realized that if the position gained was to be held every man was to do his bit before the Hun was ready to retaliate. It was beautiful Sunday morning & by midday the troops were well under cover there being hardly a sound to be heard & it was then the units in the front line were reorganised. That afternoon our company "A" was withdrawn from the front line being taken back to our old front line to act as reserves & on reaching the trench had to rebuild and consolidate it. Things remained very quiet throughout the remainder of the day & at dusk a good hot meal was brought up to our trench which was much needed by the boys after their strenuous time of excitement & hard work. During the early part of the night a good rum issue was given the troops after which I sat for a long time trying to realize what I had been through, but the whole adventure seemed more like a dream than reality for during the excitement most things that would have been observed under normal conditions were passed unnoticed. it was during these thought that I must have fallen asleep for on awakening I found it to be daylight & I was still sitting up in the same little dug out, which was without a roof, that I had made for myself the previous afternoon. The morning of the 24th July passed uneventful except for the continuance of consolidation & by this time the position was beginning to assume a very strong appearance. That afternoon however Fritz’s found his strength once more

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opening out with his artillery using guns of every calibre & it was not long after the barrage started that it reached a terrific height the heavens seeming to just open & pour shells down upon our boys but they were determined to hang on to the position. At dusk when tea arrived there was still no signs of the huns artillery stopping & orders were received to hasten & get the meal over as our company was to go back to the front line as the company’s holding that trench had suffered fairly heavy casualties. Before the company moved off I was detailed with several other men to take the empty "Dixies" back which the tea had been brought up in there being two men to each "Dixie". This job I knew was by no means a good one for it meant moving about in the open & to make matters worse I was told to remain on the duty till further orders. Just prior to the company moving off my mate & self set off with our dixie to the battalion cookers which we were told were situated in Bucourt wood some three miles to the rear. We had not proceeded many yards when I realized that there was a very warm time in store for us for the enemy’s shells were falling fast & furious, so we lost no time, making good use of all available cover, until passing Casualty Corner where we stopped for a much needed rest. Casualty Corner was at the end of an embankment through which a road had been cut, it being so called owing to the number of casualties which had been caused there. it was very popular dumping ground for the Huns shells & being practically the entrance to all tracks leading to our part of the line, there was always a large number of troops moving about in the vicinity of the corner. About two hundred yards further up the road was the main dressing station it being near here that we enjoyed our spell for the road at that particular place afforded fairly decent cover from the shells which were still falling in equal numbers with those experienced near the front line.
[The image includes a hand draw sketch of the front line and trench system near the village of Pozieres]

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On resuming the journey I noticed a large number of wounded stretcher cases while passing the dressing station lying a much under cover as possible, also a number being loaded into a big two horse ambulance which had been able to get that far up under cover of darkness. After passing the top of the hill above the dressing station we made our way down "Sausage Gully" still being troubled by the enemy’s artillery which however became less troublesome the further we walked back. When the centre of the gully was reached the noise from our artillery there was terrific for they were returning the hun’s fire with equal if not more velocity. After passing Jacksons Dump in the gully we were no longer troubled by shells but owing to being overtired & the night being dark our progress was very slow but eventually found the company field kitchen in Bucourt Wood. As soon as it was known that we had arrived fresh from the front line, the cooks & details who were camped there belonging to our battalion, bombarded us with all sorts of questions regarding the front line & casualties for previously their news had only been second hand. Even while my mate & I sat eating a meal which the cooks had prepared the questions were still coming my way, these being answered as best I could. On completing the meal the battalion Quarter master came to inform me that I would be required to go with a party to the front line at daybreak. He also instructed my mate & I to remain with the cooks that night taking advantage of the few hours before daylight having as much sleep & rest as possible. It was not long before I lay down for a rest in the cooks dugout but sleep was a long way off for being overtired I became restless so lie there listening to the rumble of both artilleries which were still firing as strong as ever, wondering how my less fortunate mates were faring in the front line.

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Daylight arrived far too soon but knowing I had a duty to perform it was not long before I was making my way with others to Jacksons Dump for it was from here the food had to be carried forward for the battalion transport were taking it to the dump for us which was a very great help. On arriving at the dump two men were detailed to each dixie & my mate, the same one as I had the previous day & I was given a four gallon "dixie" of tea which was a fair weight considering the distance it had to be carried. While at the dump I noticed men there from all the Second Division Units & learned that they were occupying the old trenches in & about "Sausage Gully". There were also a number of German prisoners in a big Shell crater near the dump & from what I could learn had been captured by our Division early that morning. The Huns were a very mixed lot there being some very young looking soldiers among them & at the same time I saw them they were being searched prior to being sent to the prisoners cage. our ration party consisting of twenty men had not proceeded very far when it suffered its first casualty, one man being wounded by a shell which fell close by. Fritz’s artillery was still going as strong as the night previous which meant we had about three miles of hell to go through & having a fair load to carry I knew that it was going to be a warm job before it finished. The Quartermaster who was in charge of the party issued orders for the men to spread out for it was useless trying to keep them together, also where to take the rations to & every effort was to be made in getting the rations there. My mate & I made our way as quickly as possible to the sunken road near Casualty Corner to have a rest before attempting to cross the open country to the old front line. While having the spell in the sunken road I noticed large parties of our Second Division who were engaged in ammunition fatigues to our Division (1st) in the front line. There were several horse ambulances at the Dressing Station being loaded with wounded for the casualties were very heavy, with numbers continually arriving from the forward area s well as around about Casualty Corner. Even while we were waiting in the sunken road several men were hit by flying pieces of shells some of the wounds proving fatal. after about ten minute spell we set off for the front line & on passing round Casualty Corner a 20th Battalion corporal joined us volunteering to give a hand with the dixie as he had been instructed to go forward to have a look round the front line positions so I promised to show him the way. After going a couple of hundred yards being very much troubled by shells which were falling like hail stones, the Corporal took my mate’s handle of the dixie, my mate coming round beside me. The change had hardly taken place when a shell exploded right beside the corporal killing him almost instantly but luckily we both escape free. This incident shook both of us considerably for it had been very close & the thoughts of the corporal being killed while filling the place of my mate also having to leave him lying there for our duty would not permit of us neglecting our mates in the front line. Our progress was very slow for the ground was like a newly ploughed field for it had been turned over several times by the huns shells which up to that time had been falling continuously for twenty hours. The track we had used the previous night to go out by was absolutely wiped out, it being a case of picking your way as you went but through all this we struggled along with our load which was getting heavier every step but determined to see the journey through

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to walk, get to the dressing station. It was well into the morning when we finally reached our old front line where the Battalion Quarter master was waiting for us & he told us to wait there as only one other dixie had arrived before us & there were no others in sight on the way up, out of ten that had left Jackson’s Dump. After waiting some time we received orders to go along the trench to the Battalion "aid post" which was situated in the huns old front line about three hundred yards further along & there await further orders. The Quarter master in the mean time had gone forward to see the Colonel as to where the rations were to be taken seeing that there was only our dixie of tea & another of boiled bacon that so far had been brought up. It took some time to get to the "Aid post" for the trench was practically blown in but afforded a little cover from the shells which were still falling a bad as ever. On reaching the aid post we found things were very busy for there were a considerable number of wounded men lying on stretchers in the best parts of the battered trench who were being administered First Aid buy our Battalion Doctor & his A.M.C. Details. There was also two big german dugouts close by these being full of men with slight wounds, Shell shock, & a lot who had been buried by shells being to much shaken to continue in the front line. it was a terrible sight to see these poor fellows who had had a terrible time during the inferno of shell fire but although their nerves were completely shattered all were determined to hang on, or to fight should they be called upon for they realized it was their first test of endurance. it was not very long before the Quarter master returned and instructed us to issue the tea we had in our dixie to the men in & around the aid post as it was impossible to take the dixie to the front line. The Quarter also told me that, that morning our Colonel had received orders to advance so collected what men he could & went through the village establishing a new front line, the movement being carried out with success. As soon as our dixie was emptied we were told to take it back to the company cooker as quick as possible as there was another trip up with rations for us that day. The ground back was covered by us as quick as we could & passed through the three miles of barrage for the third time & neither of us being hit. On our return to Bucourt Wood the cooks soon had a good meal ready for my mate & I for we had had nothing to eat since before leaving there at daylight. I also learned that we were the only two who had delivered our rations to the forward area, arriving back safely for the remaining eighteen men had either been killed or wounded. After the meal I went for a stroll discovering a number of the battalion in the wood & on making enquiries found that they had been sent out of the front line by the doctor through being buried alive or slightly wounded being instructed to remain at the wood away from the shell fire. later I received orders to be at Jackson’s Dump at 4.30 that afternoon to take rations to the line again so took things as quiet as possible until that time. I left the wood about 4PM with the transport & on arriving at the dump was given two sand bags of bread tied together to carry being told to get to the front line with it as quickly as possible. It was not long before the ration party was on its way but on reaching Casualty Corner was stopped by a Colonel of the Field Ambulance who told us we were not to go any further but remain under cover until the officer in charge of the ration party arrived. When our officer did arrive he came & told our party to go back to the dump as orders had been received to the effect that our Division was to be releived that night or early next morning

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and no rations were to be taken up in the meantime. This order was promptly obeyed for no one was anxious to make a trip across the open country under such a barrage. The thoughts of being relieved from such a place inspired new life into all hands for they had all suffered some way or another from the enemy’s retaliation. On arriving back at the dump I found that all those of our battalion that were out of the line & could be found about eighty men all told had been brought there where they were enjoying a hot meal the first for a couple of days, that had been prepared by the cooks. When the meal was disposed of the men were taken back near Bucourt Wood into an open field being told to bivouac & make themselves as comfortable as possible for the night. It was a very weird looking party that tried to settle there for they had not had a wash or a shave for a week & the strain of hardships they had endured produced a ghost like appearance in their faces. When daylight appeared next morning the 26th July our party was increased in numbers by a few men who had been relieved from the front line during the night. Most of the men were still asleep which was not to be wondered as there as not a man there who was not suffering from absolute sheer exhaustion. Breakfast was served about eight o’clock the boys then being left to rest themselves but received a very rude awakening about midday for three shells of small calibre landed right among them slightly wounding one of the boys who was taken to the Dressing Station. There was only the three shells fell but they practically caused disorder among the boys for they simply started running about in a not knowing what they were doing for the re-action of the previous day had set in which showed how unstrung the mens nerves really were. The troops received orders to make their way back to Jackson’s Dump during the afternoon for it was to be the assembly ground for the whole of the battalion. When I arrived there I saw the colonel with the boys he had brought out of the line with him & it was not long before a good meal was given to all there being about two hundred men at that time with more arriving all the time in one & two from the front line. When the meal had been consumed the Colonel gave orders to fall in, in fours then set off on the march at a very slow pace. We were taken back through Albert onto a big green hill the march being done with a rest about every mile & throughout the whole way the Colonel who was on horseback kept riding – backwards & forwards along the column encouraging the boys the whole time wearing a very determined satisfied smile which showed his appreciation for what the boys had achieved. When the battalion was halted the Colonel thanked the boys for their success in hanging on to the captured ground also saying he was sorry they had to bivouac in the open but everyman was to be issued with three blankets for the night to assist them enjoy a hard earned sleep. The boys were then instructed to remove their equipment then fall in again for a roll call also to answer inquiries about the men who had been marked missing if possible. When this was completed the boys were collected in their right companies being told to settle down & it was a very tired & worn out battalion that lay down to rest their weary bodies in slumber with the sky for a roof that night. When the battalion began to stir next morning it was discovered that several of the missing men had turned up for they had been too exhausted to go with the unit the previous afternoon. After breakfast a big mail was issued & was very lucky for I received several letters it being great to know that all who are dear & near to you although so far away, are doing well after coming through such a stunt. About ten o’clock that morning the battalion moved off at a very slow pace the troops having their packs & blankets carried by the battalion transport for they were unable to carry them

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During the march we passed through the village of Warloy where we found the Aussie Fourth Brigade who were attached to our Fourth Division were billetted waiting their turn to go in the front line after our Second Division who had relieved us. As we passed through the village the Fourth Brigade lined the streets as we passed cheering themselves hoarse for they had been told of our success in the offensive but little did they realize what they were in for when their turn arrived. The march was not very long finishing at Vadencourt the next village past Warloy where the battalion was taken into huts which were situated in the centre of a big forest. here the troops received there packs then being able to have a wash shave & brush up the first we had since the 19th July this being the 28th. before going to bed that night I went back to Warloy for a couple of hours & while there I met some of my pre-war mates having a real good talk over old times they being in the 13th Battalion. They of course were very curious about the front line so I told them what I knew about it but knowing they were going in for their turn I did not make it appear as bad as it really was for I knew they would find all that out quite quick enough. I lef Warloy about 9 o’clock making my way back to the battalion & it was not long before I lay down for the most comfortable sleep for some days. The troops were allowed to rest all the next day but received instructions to be ready to move after tea. The battalion was lined up about dusk setting off on the march which proved to be a long one & being at night it seemed much longer than it really was. The march terminated at La Vicogne where our company was taken into an orchard being told to make ourselves as comfortable as possible for the only covering was the tree` & sky. All the boys managed to get a fair share of sleep but after breakfast next morning the battalion was on the march once more going as far as Bonneville where we were put into billets. our stay at Bonneville lasted about eighteen hours for on the 30th July we moved to the village of Pernois a pretty village on the banks of the Somme river. Our company was allotted to real good billet being informed that we were to remain there for a few days going through training & reorganizing after our time at Pozieres. Pernois was a very quiet place undisturbed by war in outward appearance which was much appreciated by all hands for it gave everyone a chance to recouperate & forget about the horrors of war also the stunt through which they had recently passed. leave was given to the boys to enable them to visit neighbouring villages the largest of these being St Ouens where I spent some very good afternoons & evenings. Training was carried out on a very strenuous scale for we were told that the battalion was booked for another turn in the front line in the big offensive which necessitated in everyone being as fit as possible. The battalion also received a draft of reinforcements which party filled the much depleted ranks but the battalion was still completely understrength. At reveille on the 9th August orders were issued for all kits be got ready to move & that day the battalion started to wend its way back towards the front line going as far as La Vicogne where were put into the same orchard as previously mentioned to rest until the next day. The next morning after breakfast the battalion was on the move again going as far as Herrisart where we were allotted to billets being told that our stay here was to last a couple of days. The time spent in this village was in drill & field manoeuvres chiefly which was all training for the front line. We remained at Herrisart until the 14th August when the battalion moved to Vadencourt where we were allotted to the same huts in the big forrest which we occupied when coming out of Pozieres. The stay here lasted less than twenty four hours when we were

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On the move once more, going as far as the hills behind Albert where orders were issued for all hands to get their gear into battle order ready for the front line. The wait lasted some time here & during that time a big mail was given out which was very acceptable for many of us getting parcels which had to be carried when we moved. The move for the front line took place at dusk that night, the battalion moving in platoons with big intervals between each, passing through Albert to a reserve trench just in rear of the big guns which we occupied until about one o’clock next morning. While in this trench heavy rain began to fall which made things very uncomfortable for their was very little overhead cover & before very long the boys were all wet through this being taken with the usual little growl which is a soldier’s only privilege. The boys were all pleased when the order came to move at 1 AM "A" Company being the last to move & the route lay right through "Sausage Gully" where the mud was over the top of our boots which made walking extremely heavy. After passing through old trenches & barb wire entanglements finally relieving the 51st Battalion of the 4th Division in supports on the far side of Pozieres Village while "B", "C" & "D" companies of our battalion going right into the front line & it was well after 5 AM when the battalion was set in position. My Company (A) remained in the support line all day of the 15th being troubled very little by shell fire, for to me it appeared as if the hun was unaware of our position for he shelled both in front & in rear of our trench but we escaped all danger. About 12 o’clock of the same day I witnessed one of our aeroplanes bring down an enemy machine the occupants of which either fell out or jump landing near our trench but the plane landed in flames in no man land. I made my way along the trench to the place nearest to where the Huns were who fell out of the plane but was stopped from getting out of the trench to have a look at them by one of our officers. I learned however that there were two men both of course being dead & it was found that they had valuable information concerning our positions as well as their own which was immediately despatched to our Brigade Headquarters which was situated behind the line. About 2 o’clock that afternoon I was sent with three corporals to have a look round the front line in case we should have to move forward at any time. After proceeding along the trench our company occupied for about fifty yards we branched off to the right along an old German communication trench which had us on to the top of a big German dugout. After leaving battalion headquarters will still followed along the trench until we came to a notice pointing to the front line. at this point we turned to the left along another trench which took us straight to our "D" company who was occupying that part of the front line. The front line here was situated on the Huns side of a big ridge overlooking the enemy positions in front also to the immediate right & left the famous Moquet Farm could be seen quiet plainly a few hundred yards to the right front. After spending about an hour in the front line having a look round we made our way back towards our company our way being troubled a little by a few shells which fell near the communication trench. There was very little rest for anyone in our company while in this position for all spare time was spent in renovating and rebuilding the trench we occupied for although it was used as a reserve or main support line it was the main communication trench to that sector of the front line. Thee were a large number of enemy dead lying about our trench which went to show that although we had had a considerable number of casualties the huns had not escaped free. There was very little rest during the night of the 15th August for anyone for the boys we kept consolidating the trench for in

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places it had been completely filled in by shell fire. next day orders were issued for "A" Company to go forward to relieve "D" Company 4th Battalion who had been severely handled by the huns for they had stopped several enemy counter attacks with every success but had suffered through it. our company started to move about 2 PM with No. 1 platoon leading the others following with close intervals. The way to the front line lay through an old battered trench, which afforded very little cover for instead of turning to the right as the party I was with did the day previous we were taken straight ahead. The trench we were following came to an abrupt ending near the top of a big ridge & by this time fritz was shelling fairly heavy for it being in the daylight he had evidently seen our company on the move. I was practically at the end of the company & while passing the Battalion aid post on the way up I noticed several of our company who had been wounded being attended to by the Doctor & A.M.C. men. On nearing the top of the ridge progress became very slow orders being received to keep under cover as much as possible for the enemy’s shells were causing a fair number of casualties in our company. When I arrived at the top of the ridge I found we had a big stretch of open country to pass over this being crossed in twos & threes for it was under direct observation of the enemy. Each time a small group would start from the trench the enemy would open out with his artillery & the flashes of these guns could be seen quite plainly in a word straight ahead. When my turn arrived to go over I was accompanied by one other chap & we had hardly left the trench when a big shell landed right in front of me knocking both of us to the ground but luckily we escaped injury but I was to shaken up to continue my journey so we made our way back to the trench we had just left. By this time rain had set in falling fairly heavy which made the ground very slippery for it was a very clayey nature. After a few minutes rest I set off again with the same mate across the open country with the same chap & after covering half the distance at a run I was compelled to take cover in a big shell hole for a few minutes. When I regained my breath I made another run but my mate stayed behind but the shells were too warm to hang about in open country under so I made my way to an old piece of trench about twenty yards further on which afforded fairly decent cover. The way from this point lay along an old trench which was knee deep in mud & had been blown about considerably by the enemy’s artillery & at different places groups of our boys were engaged digging other chaps out who had been buried alive. progress along this trench was very slow for the rain was still falling accompanied by a barrage from the huns artillery & these with mud knee deep had the whole of the boys who were left in the company completely exhausted. While going along the trench I noticed for the first time several of the Huns reinforced concrete machine gun positions which were about six feet high by four feet square with only room enough for two men & the gun. it was during the early hours of the morning that I arrived at the front line there still being a lot more of the company behind me. On arriving at the front line I found it to be a very narrow trench about shoulder deep & had been filled in in many places by artillery. The remaining hours until daybreak were spent in deepening & dividing the trench so as to make it habitable also to repair the trench where it had been blown in. At daylight our company was numbered off it being found that there were only fifty men there out of one hundred & forty that had left the support line at 2 o’clock the previous afternoon most of the men who were missing were either, killed, wounded, buried or shell shocked

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It was not long after daybreak when the strain of the previous afternoon & night began to tell on the boys most of whom where forced to sleep by sheer exhaustion. When daylight set in I was able to have a good look at the landscape in front but there was no sign of any alien trench directly opposite our position but trenches could be seen to the left & right. Moquet Farm could be seen quiet plainly for it was only a few hundred yards away to the right front having a very strong fortified appearance but still all that really could be seen was a big heap of bricks surrounded by big barb wire entanglements. The Huns in front of us mostly occupied shell holes some of them being either very daring or unconscious of our position for they would start walking about from one hole to another in broad daylight offering good targets to our boys who happened to be alert & the huns suffered several casualties from this practice. During the afternoon of the 17th August our own heavy artillery started to shell our front line which caused a number of casualties in both our company & "B" company who were on our immediate left. Being shelled by our own guns had a very demoralising effect upon the boys also to make matters worse the enemy opened out on our position with his artillery & between the two it took every possible effect for everyone of the boys to control their feelings also to remain in the trench against such odds. This inferno lasted all through the night & all next day every effort being made to inform the Artillery of their incorrect range & it was thirty six hours before it was found that the maps the artillery were firing from were wrong for according to them we were occupying the Huns front line. About dusk on the 18th a volunteer was called to take a message back to the 1st Battalion Headquarters to be telephoned through to the artillery to cease fire for both our company and "B" were suffering considerable. I volunteered to take the message for although I knew it meant going through Fritz’s barrage I preferred that to remaining in the front line being shelled by our own guns. it was not long before I was on my way with the message & after going along the trench a fair way found there were too many men in it so had to get out on top for the message had to be delivered as soon as possible. When I got up on top I started on the run having a very warm time for the enemy barrage was fairly thick including a lot of shrapnel but thanks to providence I covered the two hundred yards of open country without being hit. After going this two hundred yards I was able to get into the trench again which made further progress much easier for the trench afforded very good cover from the shells which still continued to fall as heavy as ever. After a long walk through trenches I eventually found the 1st Battalion Headquarters who immediately despatched the message both by telephone & a runner (a man detailed to carry messages). On delivering the message the Colonel of the 1st Battalion told me to go back & tell our Colonel he had sent the message for our battalion had moved their headquarters early that night down into a big German Dug out in the front line where our company was holding the line. I was also told that a party of the 1st Battalion was about to start for our part of the front line with ammunition & rations & I was to go back with them for no man was supposed to go about the front line area on his own. When the party started to move I went with them but after walking some considerable time it was found that the man who was guiding lost his way so we had to about turn. After walking until about midnight through trenches the idea was given up, of trying to find the way to the front line until day break. Throughout the whole of this wandering Fritz kept up the shelling

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inflicting several casualties among the ration party I was with. Three of us spent the remaining hours until daylight in an old piece of trench but although we escaped injury the night was spent without any signs of rest for the enemys barrage kept up without a stop, the shells falling all round us the whole time. On two occasions the parapet of the trench we were occupying was blown in on top of us & each time I was completely buried having to be dug out by the two chaps who were with me. When daylight began to set in the huns artillery quietened down considerably so we made our way back to the 1st Battalion headquarters with a considerable amount of difficulty. From here I received my bearing then set off on my own for our battalion headquarters where I delivered my message of the night previous then reported back to my company. On meeting my mates I learned that they had had a pretty rough night, but were not trouble by our artillery but Fritz had paid them great attention the Major being wounded by a piece of shell which necessitated in him being sent to hospital. The remainder of that day the 19th was spent very quietly but during the afternoon orders were received to pack up the gear we had for we were to be relieved. It had rained on & off the whole time we had occupied this position which made things very uncomfortable for owing to the conditions the boys were unable to carry either overcoat of waterproof sheet which meant they were wet through & through having to remain in their wet clothes. The long looked for relief arrived during the later part of the afternoon the incoming battalion being the 10th Bn belonging to the 3rd Brigade who had been in reserves to our brigade during our stay in the front line. On being relieved our company was taken to a small support trench just in rear of the front line where we had to remain until dark. While in this support trench fritz opened out with his artillery again but although some of the shells fell very
[Image shows a hand drawn map outlining the trench systems and No Man’s Land in the vicinity of Pozieres Village and Moquet Farm in August 1916]

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close not one fell in our trench but still made the boys feel uneasy for having been relieved everyone was anxious to get out of such a hell without being hit for although we had not done any actual fighting the hanging on to the position had been severe. When darkness set in we started to move back along the communications trench through Pozieres village being shelled by Fritz throughout the whole journey but luckily no casualties were received. Once through Pozieres our way lay along old roads back past "Casualty Corner" & through "Sausage Gully" to Albert where we were put into billets a little after midnight. Before going to bed a good hot meal was served which was much appreciated for the troops had been about two days without one & when this was finished I made my way to bed for a well earned rest. The stay in this billet at Albert lasted a few days so during that time I managed to have a good look round the town. Albert has been a very fine city but owing to being under enemy shell fire so long it had been knocked about considerably but at that time not beyond repair in many parts, while in others it could only be described as heaps of bricks & mortar. It had a fine big railway centre which at that time was used exclusively by the military authorities for munitions, rations & entraining centre for the troops to & from the forward area. The most noticeable thing in the town was a big bronze Virgin with a child in its arms on the top of the cathedral tower which was hanging right across the main street. There was also a few civilians occupying shops in different parts of the town but the place was mostly used by the military for stores & billiting of troops for the forward area. During the stay in this part of the front the three Australian Divisions namely the 1st, 2nd & 4th had gained a considerable amount of ground & the 2nd & 4th Divisions were still to go in for their second time

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Our next move took place on the 21st August the battalion marching as far as Warloy where we were put into billets. The stay at Warloy lasted about twenty four hours when we were marched to the First Anzac Reinforcement camp at Val-de-maison where the troops were put into tents this being the second occasion under canvas since leaving Egypt. There was a fair size reinforcement for the battalion here who were allotted to companies that afternoon & that night a big concert was organised by the battalion talent which proved a huge success for the troops had very little amusement. During the stay in this camp the only training indulged in was sports for the troops had not properly recoved from their recent experiences in the front line. On the 23rd the battalion was marched to La Vicogne where the Brigade was assembled for an inspection by General Birdwood who decorated officers & men with ribbons which had been won during the recent fighting. The General also thanked the boys for their fine effort in the big offensive also telling them that the Division was bound for a quiet front to reorganize which came as a big relief to all. The next day the 24th the Battalion set off on the march going so far as Gezaincourt where platoons were allotted to billets. Next day the 25th I was granted leave so with a couple of mates I visited the town of Doulens about two miles away having a real good time whilst there. Doulens is a fine place, having numerous big buildings including churches, post office & rows of big business places. The town itself is kept itself is kept very clean, the people generally, speaking very good English & although it was shelled by the enemy’s long range guns at different times had a very fair population. When I arrived back at the billet that night I was detailed to be ready to move at 4 AM next morning to act as advanced guard for my platoon. I was awakened about 3.30 AM & set off for the Doulens railway yards accompanied by 3 NCOs & 1 officer & on arriving at the yards was shewn the trucks my platoon was to occupy on a train journey that day. The Railway yard here is very extensive at that time holding a lot of military rolling stock for it was from here that the whole of our Division was entraining for the North. The battalion field kitchens were assembled in the yard the cooks being busy preparing breakfast for the companies which arrived about 5 AM when they were put aboard the train & breakfast issued to them. It was an hour later before the train started to move in a northerly direction on another of those monstrous journeys the comfort of which is only experienced by troops on active service. When settled down in the train with nothing to do my thoughts drifted back over the experiences of the past twelve months, also trying to picture the future & the part of the front we were then bound for. At this time it was just one year & three days since I went into camp at Liverpool & it did seem amazing that such a number of event could be crammed into so short a time.

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Belgium
The train journey of the 26th of August 1916 lasted about six & a half hours & during that time we had crossed the borders of France into Belgium to a small railway siding about a mile west of Poperinghe. When the train pulled up orders were received to fall in, in four in the railway yards then set off on a march going about three miles where the battalion was put into huts in which was called Toronto Camp. It was about 2.30PM when the battalion was dismissed to their respective quarters there being one hut for each platoon. The remainder of that day passed uneventful for the troops were allowed a rest for they were all very tired after their train journey & marching. Next morning the 27th I was called into the company orderly room being shown Battalion routine orders for I had been promoted to Temporary Corporal in same thus receiving my first rise in rank in the army. The following day I was detailed as Battalion orderly Corporal the duties being to assist the battalion orderly sergeant in his duties in the camp & lasting for twenty four hours. During the same day the troops were marched into Poperinghe for a bath & clean change of under clothing this being very acceptable for it had been a month since they had the last. At 11 PM the following night the 29th the battalion was disturbed by a gas alarm all hand being awkened then had to put on their gas helmet & await the order for all clear. When the order came for all clear, I was detailed in charge of a gas guard having to remain on that duty until 6AM the next morning. During that day the 30th orders were received to pack up all our gear for we were to go into the front line that night. it was late that afternoon when the battalion lined up then when all was ready we were marched to a railway siding to the north of Poperinghe & put aboard a train. it was not long before the train started to move the ride only lasting about twenty minutes when we were disentrained at the southern outskirts of Ypres where we were met by guides there being one to each platoon who were to take us to the front line. When the troops left the train they were kept standing in the railway yards for a few minutes when suddenly the whistling of shells could be heard coming our way. The suspense was not long for the shells passed over our heads landing about eighty yards away & in a few minutes our battalion had left the railway yards being put behind a long terrace of houses in the city. It was not long before we started to move our path being right through the main parts of the city which from beginning to end was one big heap of ruins & seeing it for the first time at night it presented a very peculiar appearance making every one feel that they should like to explore it in daylight for it was only through seeing such sights that made one realize what artillery was really capable of doing. On reaching the far side of the city we passed through a big arch way in the city wall which was called "Lille Gates" it being guarded by Imperial soldiers. After passing through this gate I noticed we were crossing a big reinforced concrete brige which was over a lake that surrounds the city wall. Once across the bridge our path lay along a cobble road which was crossed by two railway lines, then across several fields to a reserve trench where our company relieved a company of the Dublin Fusaliers. This position was to the right of Hill 60 & when the relief had been completed our boys were informed that we were within a few hundred yards of the front line & would only occupy that position for twenty four hours. At 2 PM the next day the 1st September 1916 I was detailed as advance guard for my platoon having to go to the front line to have a look round so as to place the platoon in position that

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night when the front line was taken over. our way to the front line was along a communication trench which passed behind Hill 59 then across a railway line where we entered another communication trench which was along the top of the railway cutting to the front line. When the front line was reached I was told to report to the platoon sergeant occupying the left flank of "A" Company of the Dublin Fusaliers. After proceeding along the trench for about fifty yards I found the sergeant who showed me his sector of the line it being about fifty yards to the left of Hill 60 the Huns front line being only twenty yards away from ours at this part. It had been raining for a couple of days previous to this & as there was practically no shelter the mud & slush was about knee deep in the front line. When the company arrived after dark & the relief carried out sentries were put on duty receiving strict orders to keep a very sharpe look out for being so close to the enemy it was necessary to be on the alert the whole time in case of an attack. The troops had to remain as quiet as possible having to speak to one another in a whisper for we were within bombing distance & any noise may mean a lot of unnecessary casualties. Whilst in this position we were troubled with many rifle grenades bombs & trench mortars the company suffering many casualties by these also several men were killed by enemy snipers who were fairly active on this part of the front. This part of the front was a network of under ground tunnels which were being dug & kept in order by a Canadian Tunnelling Company for it was from the head of the tunnels that the big mine was being layed under the famous Hill 60. The Germans were also tunnelling on a very big scale here for it was known that our positions were also heavily mined. our stay in the front line lasted three & a half days for we were relieved by "D" Company of our battalion during the morning of the 5th for although we were so close to Fritz’s our trenches were sufficiently deep enough to allow a relief to be carried out by day. On being relieved our company was taken back along the communication trench to the end of the railway cutting to a lot of well built dug outs which were used as supports. This railway line was the main Paris to Brussels line which at that time was only a mass of shell holes & sand bag barricades which had been erected by our troops for defence purposes this line running between Hill 60 & Hill 59. The duties while in this position was to carry rations from Jackson’s Dump to the front line troops of a night the rations being brought up to the dump by the battalion transport. During the day time the company was detailed into parties to work with the engineers in trench revetting & consolidation. While in supports we were troubled occasionally by enemy shells of small calibre but fritz had a great liking for throwing a big trench mortar about called a Miniwurfer these things weighing about c "cwt" & when they hit the ground the explosion was terrific also making a hole about ten feet deep but luckily these things were fired at random, the battalion suffering very few casualties from them. The battalion occupied this position until the night of the 7th of September when the 1st Battalion relieved us & we were taken straight back along the railway line to a big embankment where we were put in a big dug out underneath the railway. The interior of this dug out was like a long tunnel having double rows of wire bunks on either side being well lighted by electricity throughout which was a great convenience. This tunnel which was called Railway Dug-Outs was used as reserves, having sufficient accommodation for a battalion of troops & supplied splendid cover from enemy shells. The following afternoon I was detailed in charge of a Gas Guard for brigade Headquarters who were also accommodated in the above big tunnel & this duty last twenty four hours. On the night of the 10th I was sent out with a party to the support line & on reporting to the engineers there found that the duties were

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to carry material such as planks & galvanized iron for the miners from Jacksons Dump to half way along the communication trench which led to the left company. These duties finished about midnight when we made our way back to the dugouts where the boys turned in for a sleep. The living conditions for the troops in this reserve position were very good for we were able to have our three regular meals of a day, also have a good sleep when off duty for the wire bunks in the dugout were very comfortable. within a few yards of the Dug outs & situated behind a row of tall trees was a battery of four 4.5 Australian Howitzers which were very interesting to watch when they were firing. At dusk on the 11th I was detailed with a fatigue party having to report to Engineers in the communication trench in rear of the front line where we were put revetting the trench having to work until 3 A.M. next morning when we made our way back to our quarters. After having a sleep on the morning of the 12th I had to go with an officer & four N.C.Os to Ypres to have a look over the route to the railway for I was to act as guide that night for our battalion was to be relieved. After proceeding to the railway so as to make sure of the way in darkness I was able to have a good look around the city of Ypres. There is very little to be seen now except the ruins for practically the only places that could be made out were Cloth Hall, the Asylum & Lille Gates the latter still being practically intact. it was shocking to see the way such a big city had been knocked about for as far as I could see there was not a whole wall of any building left standing. The roads were kept clear of all debris also in good repair for it was used exclusively by the military. The city was used for billetting small units in these men living in big dug outs among the ruins having the roof &
[The image includes a hand drawn sketch map of the front line trenches around the Hill 60 sector in Belgium]

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side of the dug outs protected by stones & bricks from near by ruins. At Lille Gates I saw a very big bell which was being specially guarded for it was considered to be the most costly of all bells in the world. The story goes that a collection was called for throughout Belgium to purchase a bell for the cathedral & there was that much copper & silver collected that it was decided to melt it all down to make the bell with which proved a huge success for the bell could be heard for about twenty miles. Just inside the gate the Australian Comforts Fund had erected a big sand bag dug out where the troops passing backwards & forwards to the front line could get a hot cup of cocoa, biscuits & cigarettes free any hour of the day & night which was much appreciated by all the boys. After having a good look round we made our way back arriving at the company just in time for dinner. At dusk that night I was sent to the railhead in Ypres where I met a platoon of the 10th Battalion having to guide them to our position in reserves for they were to relieve our battalion. When the relief was completed I had to put all my gear on then guide my own platoon back to the Railway yard where we were put aboard a waiting train. our ride in the train only lasted about twenty minutes for we disentrained at Poperinghe where the regimental band met us for they had remained out of the line & we were taken to a camp called Dominion Lines arriving there about 2.30 AM next morning. It was not long before the battalion was wrapped in slumber not being disturbed till about mid-day. That afternoon I was detailed as company orderly corporal being told this duty was to last for four days the duties being far to many to enumerate & there was always plenty to keep me well occupied.

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During the 15th the battalion was marched to the divisional baths for a bath & change of underclothing which was urgently needed. Whilst in this camp plenty of drill was carried out for a change had taken place in regards to instructions in modern warfare also the armament of an infantry regiment. On the 22nd I had to take my bombing section to a bomb range to put them through a practical bombing course. This including the throwing of live grenades, the bomb having to be thrown over a small sand bag parapet into a water hole these having been made for that purpose. During this practice one of the section became careless & while in the attempt of throwing a live bomb his arms became entangled with the chap next to him causing the bomb to fall out of his hand at the same time hitting him in the head knocking him unconscious. As soon as this happened the boys made a run for cover for the bomb had fallen inside the parapet having only five second before it went off. We did not have long to wait & as soon as it went off we rushed round to see how the chap was who dropped the bomb for we fully expected to find him killed but to our surprise found him to be still unconscious so set to work to bring him round when we found he had only received a small piece in the right arm this being sufficient to send him away to hospital. The following day all the Officers & N.C.Os of the Brigade we assembled on a big field for a course of aeroplane contact signalling. ** This proved very interesting for it illustrated the communication between the aeroplanes & front line troops for an aeroplane was used for the instructions. Next morning Sunday 24th September our Brigade was assembled near Poperinghe for a church parade this being attended by General Birdwood & Mr Fisher, High Commissioner for Australia. After the ceremony the General decorated officers & men with medal which had been won during recent engagements.
** For instructions received see page 216
After the church parade accompanied by a mate I made my way to Poperinghe to have a look round. Poperinghe ranks among the largest towns in Southern Belgium being fairly well layed out, with the usual big market square, similar to all European towns, in the centre of the town. Along both sides of the main streets are terraces of big business places & at this time was fairly well populated by people who were game enough to remain within easy range of the enemy’s big guns. The old church with its tall spire surmounted by a weather cock is still to be seen, having suffered several hits by alien shells but no great damage had been done to it. At this time the town was visited by hundreds of British troops on daily leave & for their convenience & amusement the military authorities had commandeered the largest hall in the place for a cinema show. This show was well patronized by the troops also by a certain number of French civilians who were allowed to attend each performance for they like the soldiers it was their only place of enjoyment in the town. The Belgium people in & around Poperinghe spoke English fluently being generally very good to the troops especially the Australians for our Division was practically the first Aussies they had been mixed up with. Naturally they were very curious in regards to our customs & dress also numerous questions were asked about our home land & civilian life. Their hospitality was returned by the majority of our boys who appreciated the little kindness & hands of friendship which was extended them. After spending a very good day in the town we arrived back at camp about 8 PM then turned in for the night. next morning the 28th things became busy in camp for we were told the battalion was to go in the front line again that night & I was detailed to act as advance guard for my platoon.

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The instructions for the advance guard were to be ready to move off at half past twelve to march to the new positions & have a look round so as to be able to guide our platoons from the railway yards at Ypres that night. The advance guard moved off at the prescribed hour but throughout the whole distance things were taken very easy for we had ten miles to march to reserves, the position the battalion was to take over, passing through Ypres enroute. On arriving at our destination about 4.30PM we found to our surprise that our new home was rather elaborate for it consisted of long tunnel dug outs fitted throughout with electric lights, in the northern bank of the Yser Canal. The whole place was extremely pretty seeming to be too good to be used for purposes of war. The canal is of the old European type being bricked along both sides and locked at intervals by flood gates of immense strength. At this particular spot there was a big locke, a huge brick structure with its big iron gates which at this time was still intact for it had only been hit by one or two shells. That night I had to go back along the Ypres Road to Woodcote farm to meet my platoon who was waiting there. When the platoon had had a spell we started to move forward part of our way being through the remains of the King of Belgium’s summer palace & residence which had been considerably knocked about. At hat time the grounds were used to conceal several batteries of our light field artillery. On reaching the reserve position the 7th battalion who were occupying it were relieved & our boys were allowed to settle down for the night having wire bunks to sleep in. next morning I was sent in charge of a mining shift of eight men who were to work six hours on duty & twelve hours off as there were two other shifts as well as mine. The duties on the mining shift were to carry sand bags full of earth from the top of the mine shafts & tipping the earth into shell holes in the vicinity of the mines this job lasting for
[The image contains a hand drawn sketch map titled "Rough sketch Sector called "The Bluff" south of Yres]

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two days & nights. On the night of the 28th I was sent in charge of a party to carry material for making underground dug outs to No 1 Canadian Tunnelling company who were engaged in this occupation. During the morning of the 29th with other N.C.Os I went to have a look round the front line especially the part our company was to occupy when their turn arrived. This part of the line consisted of several big mine craters which we were told had been blown by the enemy but had afterwards fallen into our hands. The position was very interesting but still very dangerous everyone having to remain as quiet as possible both day & night for their own safety for the Huns were only thirty yards away. The garrison of the place consisted of small sentry posts on the further lip of the mine craters with strict instructions to remain perfectly quiet & to observe any enemy movements that may be seen. After having a good look right round the battalion Front & making notes of same we returned to our company having nothing more to do that day. During the night of 30th September the 7th Battalion "Raiding Party" about thirty men raided the enemy front line which proved fairly successful for they brought back several prisoners & only suffered very few casualties. The raid took place after a fairly heavy bombardment by our artillery & trench mortars which caused Fritz to retaliate making things very warm while it lasted. Next day October 1st we received orders to put all watches back one hour for the daylight saving stunt which affected the soldiers as well as the civilians. That same day I was detailed in charge of an engineers fatigue party on revetting a communication trench called "Lovers Lane" it being well named for Fritz had a great liking for it, for he never forgot to give it, its daily issue of shells & trench mortars.

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The morning of the 4th broke with a very heavy fog which did not lift until about 9AM when rain set in which became heavier as the day wore on. That same morning I was sent with a fatigue party to work in a support trench being considerably troubled by enemy shells for Fritz, like the weather was cranky. During the morning I received orders to take my party back to the battalion for the huns shelling was becoming heavier and we were shelled all the way back to reserves but luckily received no casualties in the party. We had hardly reached our quarters when our artillery & trench mortars started to return the enemy’s fire which developed into a general bombardment but only lasted about half an hour. We resumed our fatigue work in supports about mid-day but was unable to do very much for Fritz still continued a slow rate of artillery fire which made things uncomfortable. This shelling continued all the afternoon so I took my party home & when we arrived there about 6PM the huns artillery had reached its highest intensity being very fierce but died down about 8PM without having caused much damage. our artillery however weren’t to be beaten so about 11PM that night they disturbed the enemy with a heavy barrage which lasted about an hour but during that time several tons of ammunition were thrown about. The next couple of days were spent very quietly with just the usual fatigues to break the monotony but during the night of the 7th our battalion relieved the 1st Battalion who were then occupying the front line. My company "A" relieved the company who was occupying the mine craters but my platoon No 4 was put into supports on top of the canal bank. When the relief was carried out the company commander detailed me to act as company orderly corporal whilst in this position the duties being to see that the rations were taken to the frontline also conduct business between company Headquarters which was in supports & the front line troops. I also had to detail a party of six men & one Lance Corporal to take charge of several small bridges & a locke across the canal for order were that these were to be blown up should the enemy successfully attack the position. For this special purpose Gun cotton slabs with fuses attached were always kept in position in case of emergency the only thing neccessary to blow up the bridges was to light the fuse. The next day the 8th our company suffered its first casualty since coming into this part of the line & luckily was only a slighly wounded case. During the early part of the night of the 12th our Battalion Raiding Party who had been out of the line practicing paid a visit to the huns front line killing a number of the enemy & secured some valuable documents only suffering four casualties themselves altogether the raid proved very successful. Whilst in the line here news was received that the Hun intended to blow up the front line by mine sp parties were told off as fighting parties their duties being to fight for possession of the mine crater in the event of such happenings. To avoid more casualties than possible should the mine be sprung the front line troops were withdrawn about three hundred yards at "Stand to" night & morning leaving a sentry here & there in the front line to give warning of any enemy movement should any be visible. Luckily the expected enemy movement did not take place while we were occupying that part of the front line which was called the "The Bluff". While occupying this part of the line the troops had a very good time for frontline work, for they received three regular meals a day having nothing to do except their turn on sentry work at their respective posts. One man from each platoon was allowed to go once a day to the battalion canteen which had been installed in the big dug outs in reserve where the boys could purchase cigarettes, and practically anything in the eating line.

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During the 13th of October we received orders to pack up all our gear ready to move off for the battalion was to be relieved that night. Just before dusk I had to go to Ypres where I met a platoon of the 14th Battalion then guide them to the position occupied by my platoon after which I guided my boys back to the Railway yard at Ypres. We had to wait some time for a train & when it arrived we were put aboard then taken near Poperinghe. On disentraining the battalion was met by the band which had been left out of the line, who played us to the camp at Dominion Lines which was reached about 11 PM & all turned in. The troops were awakened by an early reveille next morning being told to pack all gear ready to move off after breakfast. breakfast had hardly time to settle down when the Sergeant Major could be heard calling out "fall in A Company" so the troops once more obeyed with about a hundred pounds on their back. It did not take long for the battalion to assemble & was soon swinging along the road passing through several small villages, also through the outskirts of Cassel which appeared to be a fine place. The march came to an end at Godewarsvelde that afternoon our platoon being allotted to a big barn for a billet. That night accompanied by a mate we went into the village to have a look round also have tea if it could be purchased. We found a very decent café where a good tea was enjoyed then went for a look round. The village was kept very clean the people here were of a good type who appeared to be keenly interested in our boys also being very civil & polite. After having a good time we returned to the billet early & turned in to bunk. next morning the 15th saw the battalion on the move once more marching as far as Arneke a nice little village which was situated in a big valley. The whole of our company will billeted in several barns belonging to a big farm house where the boys were able to get any amount of eggs & milk for a very reasonable price. Our stay at Arneke lasted overnight & night morning we were on the march once more this time having an exceptionally long march which terminated at a village called Estmont where the whole battalion was put into a big chateau. it was a fine building with big pawns being surrounded by hunting grounds also a lake & many fine ornamental trees. The battalion spent a few days here being engaged in drill which the Colonel said was to keep the troops fit. On the 19th I was detailed with my platoon bombing section to visit the Divisional Bombing school & had to march about three miles there where each man threw one live bomb & returned home competent bombers with practical experience. This day was also set apart for the first polling by the troops on conscription which was quite a novelty causing much excitement but by the general discussion of the troops it was turned down. The next move took place the following night the 20th when the Battalion left the chateau having to march to the Railway yards at St Omer where we were put into cattle trucks there being fourty men to each. It was early next morning when the train started to move & we were saying farewell to the two months spell just completed on a quiet front which had been promised us on coming out of Pozieres the second time. The spell in Belgium had been welcomed by all for we had an idea that the future was to bring even more strenuous & hardships with it. our thought were on the future as the journey progressed but we resolved ourselves to our fate.

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The Somme and Winter 1916
During the train journey to the south we passed through Etaples at that point the main A.I.F. base depot also through Boulogne & Calias it being the first time we had seen the English channel since arriving in France. The train ride lasted some time finally disentraining at Longpre on the Somme then had to march about two miles to the village of L’Etoile where the battalion was allotted to billets. This village was a very nice quiet little place providing very good comfortable quarters for our stay there which lasted a couple of days. by this time the weather was beginning to get very cold also being troubled with plenty of rain which meant it was necessary for the troops to wear their greatcoats at all times. The next move took place during the morning of the 23rd when the battalion was marched to Monfleurs about 2 miles away. On arriving at this village the battalion was put aboard a French motor convoy there being twenty four men to each motor lorry this being driven by French natives who were jet black. After a considerable wait we started to move the route laying through the outskirts of Amiens one of Frances largest cities but care was taken to see that no motor stopped in the city so as to prevent the boys from having a look round. After a very long ride the troops finally alighted from the buses on the southern side of Albert. The remainder of the journey had to be done by foot which proved very strenuous for it was across captured ground the mud averaging about knee deep with shell holes scattered about & many of the boys fell into these holes some of them being four feet deep which meant that those who fell into them had to be dragged out by their mates. After ploughing about in the mud & slush till nearly midnight with about a hundred pounds on our back we were at last put into canvas huts the floors of which were covered with mud at a place called Friecourt. The stay in these huts only lasted overnight for next morning the battalion set off again along roads & across country still experiencing plenty of mud also rain which had set in. This days march terminated at a big hill on the right of Marmetz wood where the boys were put into big shallow dugouts which were made with sand bags being covered by huge tarpaulins like those used on our Railways. The troops christened this place "Muck Hill" on account of the mud & they stay here lasted a couple of days. Camped near bye & living under the same conditions were some of the other Australian Divisions so most of the boys spent their spare time in looking up their old mates whom in many cases they had not seen since enlisting. Our felt hats & packs were taken from us here to be stacked until we came out of the line & the troops were issued with extra ammunition, two bombs, & two sand bags each which were to be carried when the battalion moved off. We were also issued with a yellow colored piece of cloth about three inches square which had to be sewn on the back of the tunic for aerial observation purposes when we went into the front line. The contemplated move took place during the afternoon of the 29th every one being fully loaded for although our packs had been taken from us the extra gear that had been issued to carry, far exceeded the weight previously carried. Our progress was very slow for the mud experienced on this march was deeper than that we had gone through before & in some cases men were actual bogged having to be dragged out by mules which were used for pack animal by the artillerymen for it was impossible to use wheeled traffic. After about an hours struggling the company commander led the company to an old battered trench between Delville & Trones Wood telling the boys to make themselves as comfortable as possible as it was to be their new home for the next few days.

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The dug outs in this position had all fallen in so everyone had to set to & make themselves shelters for it could be seen that rain was not too far off. My mate & I built what looked to be a nice little home in an old gun pit which proved to be comfortable for that night for we succeeded in having the best nights rest for some days past. There was nothing for us to do the next morning so the troops had a good wander about having a look over the ground which had been captured since our turn at Pozieres. I busied myself in inspecting an old sugar mill which the Huns had made a good job of while it was in his hands for all the brass & copper fittings also the copper tubes from the boilers and machinery had been removed also recking the building practically beyond repair. Just in rear of our position was Tones Wood in which had been an Old german Headquarters which was being used by our battalion as their Headquarters for the place was still intact. There was also two big german guns in the wood which had been turned on their back by our artillery prior to the wood being captured & they were considerably knocked about. our luck did not last long for that night it started to rain heavy & before midnight most of the troops self included were wandering about wet through looking for dryer possies for the rain had swamped most of us out. The rain had eased off by daylight & when the sun managed to get a look in, it was a very sick, sore & sorry mob it teamed down upon. With a considerable amount of trouble my mate & I managed to make our dug out water tight by smearing mud over the top then lighted a huge fire inside to dry it out. This completed we made a floor of three inch shell cases which proved an excellent idea for we were once more at home being able to laugh at the rain. While in this place I saw a 15inch Howitzer in action which fired a shell four feet six inches long, weighing 14 cwts, costing £ 400 to make & the shell could be watched, during its flight after being fired, from behind the Gun. On the 1st of November orders were received to get all gear ready to move forward which we did during the later part of the afternoon. The battalion moved in small parties of about twenty men each with big intervals between parties which proved awkward for on reaching Delville wood we found that other battalions were moving in the same direction as us at the same time it being a job to keep in touch with your own unit. I was leading my platoon & about dusk lost sight of the party in front which made things awkward for I had not had any definite instructions as to where the position we were going to relieve lay, so it was a case of plodding along in the mud which was knee deep in the hopes of finding some one who may be able to direct me. However my direction proved to be correct for after going what I considered to be far enough I halted the platoon telling them to sit down until I had a look round. On going about two hundred yards I fell over an embankment of a sunken road, which I was unable to see for it was pitch dark, & when I hit bottom found I was over my waist in mud, at the same time hearing a chap sing our "Hullo another Doll over", but he came to my rescue & pulled me out. That incident however was soon forgotten for I found that I had almost fallen into our battalion headquarters where I explained my situation having a runner sent back with me to guide the platoon into a reserve trench. That night "C & D" companies of our battalion had gone into the front line whilst A & B companies stayed in reserves & the whole place was in a frightful state for it was simply one big sea of mud. The reserve trench was situated slightly to the west of the village of Flers it being at this place that the British Tanks were first used in action by Imperia troops and several of these big iron monsters were lying about where they had been put out of action, or fallen into big trenches

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Next day the 2nd November I was detailed with a party to visit the support line which was held by B Company. We went up by way of a communication trench which was in a terrible condition for the mud was knee deep & throughout the whole way us we were considerably troubled by enemy shells but eventually the party reached the support line quite fagged out but suffering no casualties. The support line was situated in the Eastern side of a sunken road called "Cheese Road" it being a terrible place for the mud & slush was even deeper here than previously experienced, taking a terrible lot of trouble to try and drain the dug outs. No one was allowed past this road during the day for it was under observation by the enemy who front line was only about five hundred yards away. Several small villages could be seen from her also a big chimney stack & steeple which belongs to the city of Bapaume could be seen away in the distance. After having a good look round, finding out as much as possible about the position our party returned to reserves via another route which proved to be far better to the one we had travelled going up. On the way back our path lay past a big British tank which evidently had been put out of action by a fair size shell which had by all appearance penetrated the armament setting fire to the petrol tank for the charred remains of the occupants could be seen also several other articles that had been burned. That night was spent in our water logged reserve trench but owing to a little forethought the boys had made themselves as dry & comfortable as circumstances would permit so the night past over with the usual little growl. The following night our company relieved B company in supports with No 1 platoon taking over a part of the front line. While in this position we experienced some very heavy artillery fire but luckily the casualties were very few. The 4th of November proved to be an exceptionally unlucky day for our battalion as our Colonel Howell price was wounded which later proved fatal, his loss being much felt by all for he had proved himself a thorough soldier, leader & a Gentleman. It happened that two platoons were changing over on the front line, this having to be done overland, about five AM under cover of a heavy fog which suddenly lifted exposing the men to the view of the enemy snipers who soon became busy wounding eight men of the relieving platoon. The Colonel had evidently been informed of this for he soon made his way to the front line to investigate & while trying to locate the sniper, with his head above the parapet, received a bullet in the cheek. It was a terrible sad sight to see him being carried out on a stretcher & as he passed our trench in supports all hand stood to attention in respect for it could be seen he was in great pain. He was taken back to the Casualty Clearing Station at Healy where he died three days later being buried in the same village. That same night the 1st & 3rd Battalion had to carry out a small local stunt, captured a strong point & a line of trenches, under extreme conditions which cause the operation to be unsuccessful. Before the troops hopped out a midnight it began to rain very heavy which made things very uncomfortable for when they did hop out the mud was very deep which made the progress across no-mans land very slow. The 1st Battalion were unfortunate for Fritz must have known or heard them for he gave them an unmerciful reception with machine guns, making it that hot under extreme conditions that they were compelled to retire with many casualties. Meanwhile our battalion had been much more fortunate for they gained their objective with only a couple of casualties but killed & wounded a large number of the enemy. I appeared that the huns in this particular part had just relieved the front lined & had not had enough time to get into proper fighting order before our battalion had reminded them that the war was still on.

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As soon as it was known that our "C & D" company had succeeded in gaining there objective a number of "A" Company self included had to set out with picks & shovels to consolidate the new position. On reaching the position we were taken out a little advance of the trench that had been captured where each man was given about nine feet of tunnel to dig being told to get down as quick as possible for we would have to stay there when daylight arrived. The digging was very easy for the ground was very soft but after getting well down we received orders to evacuate the position for it was found that the huns had secretly made their way back into their old front line & were in a communication trench on our left & also were occupying a ridge in front of us this being caused through the 1st Battalion not coming up on our left. It was nearly daylight when we left this position but luckily it was carried out successfully without any casualties but we were lucky to get out of the position for the Huns would have made things very uncomfortable for us. It was late that morning when I arrived back in the support line being absolutely fagged out but managed to have a well earned rest if it could be termed such in the mud. Whilst in this support line I witnessed one of our aeroplanes being set on fire by two enemy planes which was a great sight although very disastrous for our airman. During the afternoon & night of the 5th our heavy artillery started to fire short, causing a fair number of casualties to our platoon who was occupying the front line also blowing them out of a new front line which they had recently dug compelling them to reire to the old original Front line. Late that night I had to take my platoon to the front line on fatigue to clear out the trench which our artillery had filled in & although the boys worked hard to complete the job we received orders to remain in the front line until "Stand to" the next morning. Good news came our way next morning the 6th for orders were issued to pack up all our gear ready to move.
[The image contains a hand drawn sketch map titled "Rough Sketch Flers showing trench systems in the vicinity of Flers]

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Our Coy had hardly finished packing their gear when "B" Company arrived to relieve us when we moved back to the reserve trench near battalion headquarters. next morning the 7th I was sent to have a look at the position & dug outs in second reserves which the platoon occupied later in the day after being relieved by the 11th Battalion. The stay in this position lasted a few days but although we were about two miles behind the line we were still compelled to remain in the mud which was most uncomfortable. Throughout this turn in the line the rations were brought us to Battalion Headquarters by pack horses for it was utterly impossible to use the limbers. While here the enemy heavily shelled several batteries of our field artillery blowing several guns out also shelling the long lines of pack horses which were employed to take the shells up to the guns. About midday on the 10th we noticed a big Hun aeroplane hovering over one of our monoplanes when all of a sudden the monoplane darted upwards the pilot giving a burst on his machine gun which proved fatal to the Hun for he was immediately set on fire falling to the earth in flames. The broard gauge railway came to within four miles of the front line which proved a great asset for it kept a considerable amount of traffic of the roads. Throughout the whole time in & about the front line the troops received a liberal issue of rum which proved very effective for there was a very small percentage of men sent away through sickness. We also received a dry pair of socks each day in exchange for the wet pair & before the dry socks were put on each man had to dry his feet properly then dust them with a specially prepared powder considered a prevention against trench feet. During the afternoon of the 13th November our battalion was relieved by the 49th battalion & we moved back to

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Bevenacourt arriving there after dark when the boys were put under big tarpaulins having to be cramped in so as to afford shelter for all. Next morning the battalion assembled then set off on the march along muddy road to Friecourt passing the Prince of Wales during the march. On arriving at Friecourt we were allotted to small dug outs which were very comfortable & that night a big concert was organized being held around a big fire providing some welcome amusement for the boys. next morning the 15th saw us on the move again this time going as far as Buire where we were put into good billets which were a blessing after our long turn up in the mud. It was fairly late in the afternoon when the boys settled down after having a real good wash this having to be done without soap for the boys had not received their packs which were taken from them before we went into the line. After a good meal had been done justice too I made my way to bed enjoying the most comfortable sleep for some time. Next morning we received our packs & was then able to have a good wash, shave & brush up which made us feel civilized once more. The remainder of the day was spent in cleaning the mud off our clothes and equipment, which by this was dry but took some getting off. That night several of us went to a vaudeville show which was being given by a Tommy Motor Transport Concert party some two miles away from our billet but still had a very enjoyable evening. During the 17th the battalion left Buire in motor lorries & after passing through Amiens & several small villages alighted at Flessels where the troops were all allotted to good billets. I was a very cold night but on getting up next morning found that it had been snowing very heavily during the night having about two inches which was the first of the season. While billetted in this village parade ground work & general reorganizing of the battalion was the chief training indulged in. One afternoon while here "A" Company played "D" Company football which proved a one sided game for "A" won by 33 points to nil. The life outside of parade was very quiet for there was absolutely no amusements in the village as the boys spent their spare time in playing cards or visiting their mates in other battalions for the whole of our Brigade was billetted in the same village. leave was granted to a very small percentage to Amiens but I was unlucky & did not get leave to that city. Somebody evidently found out that the 3rd Battalion was having too good a time for on the 25th we received orders to pack up & during the afternoon were packed into motor lorries which were soon moving back towards the forward area. The motors took us back to Buire where we alighted then set off on foot marching about two miles where we were halted & after standing about for over an hour in the cold & rain was told that there was no accommodation available so we were about turned having to march back to Buire where we were allotted to tents. This camp was in a disgraceful condition for owing to the rain & snow the mud was ankle deep many of the tents having no board flooring which meant that some of the boys had to sleep in the mud & slush as well as paddling about in all day. During the first weeks stay in this camp our company was detailed on fatigue duty at Dernacourt an adjoining village, reveille being at 5 AM each morning then having to march three miles to work. The duties consisted of working in a big army saw mill where we were ably assisted by a number of hun prisoners-of-was who appeared to ne most conscientious & obedient carrying out the duties allotted to them receiving good treatment in return. The other jobs were repairing billets & putting wire bunk into them to afford more accommodation for billetting of troops also getting stone from a big quarrie for road making the stone being carried away in motor lorries. The duties were welcomed by our boys for it was so different

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to the everyday soldiering life which we had, had to endure for some considerable time. The second week was spent in draining jobs in & around our camp trying to make things respectable & to keep the camp as dry as possible. One afternoon while in this camp "A" Company played "B" Company football which ended in a win for the former by 8 points to 6. The Major who had been wounded at Pozieres the second time also joined us when he was made Lt. Colonel in place of the late Howell price. our next move took place during the 15th December when the battalion marched five miles to a railway siding at Meuatte where the troops were put into some circular huts which had a big stove in each & the boys were able to make themselves comfortable. During the five days we remained here the boys were engaged on loading & unloading trains with timber for the front line which was far superior to drilling. During the afternoon of the 19th a big draft of reinforcements arrived which partly filled up the much depleted ranks. That night iron ration (Bully Beef & biscuits) & extra ammunition were issued to all also being told to be ready to move off after breakfast next morning. Early next morning the battalion set off on the march which was only short for we were put into huts in "Melbourne Camp" near Marmetz for the night. We left "Melbourne Camp" after breakfast on the 21st this time marching several miles to Bernafay where we occupied huts for the night. This constant moving of troops about was a wonderful organization for as one unit would leave a camp another would take its place yet the never seemed to be any congestion. During the afternoon of the 22nd, we left Bernafay & after a very long march our company relieved the front line a little to the right of the position we last occupied.

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next day the 25th being Xmas Day it rained to celebrate the occasion the troops being issued with small sausages bought from the canteen also a small piece of plum pudding which was heavy enough to sink a ship & a real good rum issue. We had to occupy this cramped up position for four days the duties consisting of ration carrying from the village of Flers to the front line a distance of about a mile & a half. These ration fatigues were a most exceptionally unpleasant jobs for the whole distance was paved with mud averaging knee deep & this with the weight of the rations which had to be carried made things very strenuous. it was impossible to maintain a permanent track to the front line for Fritz made the whole way a dumping ground for shells which made progress more difficult for in many case the men would fall into shell holes having to be pulled out by their mates. it often happened that a ration party would get lost for there were no land marks to guide anyone & if a party did get lost it would mean walking about until dawn or sit down & wait for the nights were as dark as pitch. During the 27th orders were issued to our company to prepare themselves for the front line & we started to move off about dusk going to exactly the same position as previously occupied by us relieving "D" Company of our battalion. That night was extremely cold for a very heavy frost set in about midnight making things unpleasant for being on post duties we were not able to move about to keep warm. Early next morning long before daylight the deadly silence was broken by the yells of a hun which I afterwards learned was captured by a 2nd battalion patrol who were working on our right. It appeared that the Hun had been engaged on a fatigue party & owing to the dark lost his way & was sitting in an old disused trench when he was discovered by the 2nd Battalion patrol. At dawn I found I was unable to accommodate the three
[The image contains a hand drawn sketch map titled "Rough Sketch Geudacourt Section]

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& myself off my post in the big German dug out which we had used during the day last time we were in that position so decided to take my men down into the village of Geudacourt which was only about two hundred yards on our right. On arriving in the village I discovered an old cellar which had been made into a dug out which I afterwards learned was an old German Headquarters having been heavily mined by the Huns before they had left it, but it proved a good place for a sleep which we enjoyed. After being a sleep for a few hours I was suddenly awakened by the Company Sergeant-Major who told me to pack up al my gear & report to company headquarters at once. This did mot take me long & on reporting to headquarters was informed that I was being sent to a school of instruction for N.C.O.’s which sounded like music in my ears for it meant getting well away from the mud for a few days at least. On leaving company headquarters I was accompanied by an officer & a corporal with instructions to report to battalion headquarters as soon as possible. our first part of the journey was across open country under full observation by Fritz who fired a few shots some of them falling uncomfortably short but luck favoured us & we managed to get to battalion headquarters intact. We remained her until 2 PM when we were joined by two N.C.Os & 1 officer from each company then set out for the battalion transport lines which were at Montauban arriving there about dusk after a long walk. That night I enjoyed a real good rest also two good meal which I obtained from a mate who was in the Army Service Corps & camp close by the battalion transport. Next morning the 29th we left the transport making our way towards Albert & after walking about a mile managed to catch a motor lorry which took us right to a camp in Albert where we stayed for a couple of days. The camp here consisted of tents being very comfortable

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During the stay in this camp we had nothing to do so spent our spare time in having a look round Albert also managing to get a hot bath & clean change of underclothing which was very acceptable. We left this camp at Albert on Sunday 31st December 1916 on falling in prior to moving off found our party had increased considerably for it then consisted of officers & N.C.O’s from each battalion in the 1st Division. After the fall in we marched about half a mile where we were put aboard waiting motor lorries then when all was ready started to move. The ride lasted a couple of hours passing through several small villages & Amiens enroute finally alighting at La Chaussie when we found we had to march about a mile to the school at Tirancourt. The school was situated in a big white chateau, an old French residence, on the northern bank of the Somme River being surrounded by beautiful grounds which had been let go to ruin owing to the war. before being dismissed the party was checked off then detailed to our quarters which were in the stables belonging to the chateau & were very cold & uncomfortable. Next morning when the parade fell in we were told off into Syndicates there being about eight N.C.O’s each then started on our course of training. The routine as layed down consisted chiefly of musketry & field management at it affected infantry regiments which although hard proved very interesting. The inspection of self appearance was exceptionally keen this taking place each morning when the troops were compelled to stand in the intense cold for three quarters of an hour while the inspection was being carried out & in many cases men fainted in the lines caused by standing in the cold. The drill finished at 4 PM of a day & the troops were then able to visit the neighbouring villages on leave the largest of these being Picquiney where I spent some very decent evenings. On Sunday leave was granted to Amiens having to go by train from Picquiney the fare being 2 ½ d. I spent several days in Amiens & had some very good times for it is one of France’s largest city being situated astride the famous Somme river which flows right through the centre. It has some fine big buildings including the Railway Station, rows of business places & numbers of Public buildings of a kind which are generally to be found in any city throughout the world. The Cathedral is a massive place of great workmanship at that time the base outside was protected by huge barracades of sand bags which had been to protect the building from enemy shells & bombs. There is also a good tram service throughout the city which was well patronized by the hundreds of British & French soldiers who were on leave. The stay at the school lasted four weeks & during that time we experienced some very cold weather with snow falling frequently & a big freeze set in which enabled the troops to go skating on the numerous small ponds on the banks of the river which had been frozen hard. our term at the school finished on Saturday the 27th January 1917 & that afternoon we left the school in motor lorries alighting at the Anzac reinforcement camp in Albert after few hours rough rise. It was late next morning when the troops were aroused for breakfast then after a walk through the town set out to find the battalion who were up in the forward area, about 1 PM. After marching all that afternoon our officer in charge decided to call a halt about dusk & on making inquiries we were put into tents belonging to the 49th Battalion for the night. The major of this camp was very decent to us for after fixing us up with tents sent along a dixie of hot tea followed by a big rum issue which was very acceptable for the night was bitterly cold. we resumed our journey after breakfast next morning but did not have far to go for the battalion where I was informed that my platoon was at Highwood some two miles away

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on fatigue work so had to make my way there. However it was not long before I was back among my boys again who were comfortably quartered in big huts called Highwood East Camp. The duties here consisted of pushing rations & gear for dug outs to the front line on the Light Railway which was not a very strenuous duty for it only meant about four hours work a day. The stay here did not last long for late in the afternoon of January 31st orders were issued for the platoon to move up to Cough Drop siding, an engineers dump, for duties to the front line. The track from Highwood East to Cough drop was along a double row of duck boards & half way along this track was a grave with a big white wood head cross bearing exactly the same Rank, regimental number, initials & name as myself which haunted me for I had to pass it on several occasions but this man belonged to the 20th Battalion A.I.F. The duties while at Cough Drop were to carry gear from the dump to advance company headquarters where the miners were making a big under ground dug out to be used for supports also gear for making saps out to outposts. These duties were extremely strenuous for it meant carrying very heavy timber about a mile & a half over frozen ground making the walking very slippery for the ground was like glass & on many occasions Fritz shelled the track but luckily our platoon suffered no casualties. During one of these fatigues the boys had to carry sheets of galvanized iron which made a fair amount of noise & when just in rear of the front line the enemy opened out on the party with machine guns which caused sheets of iron to be thrown in all directions for all had to take cover but after a while the journey was continued uninterrupted. During the afternoon of the 4th the platoon moved back to Highwood but I received orders to report to company headquarters where I was instructed to go to an old German Dug out just in rear of supports & remain there for that night & the following day. During the night of the 5th I was given charge of six men then sent to the front line to relieve a post there called No 23 which was situated on the right flank of the company. The front line was a very delapitated trench about shoulder high & I received instruction that communication had to be kept with "C" Company on the right this having to be done by patrolling about fifty yard every hour, my post having to do it one hour & "C" company left flank post the next this having to be maintain throughout the night. These patrols were carried out along the front line which at that time was unoccupied for the distance between the two companies. The weather was bitterly cold while occupying the front line for the troops were exposed to all weathers but we used to get hot stew & tea just after dark, rum issue at midnight, then hot tea for breakfast about 4 AM in the mornings. The enemy was very quiet at this place & could be seen moving about during the night for the snow was thick on the ground with the moon shining brightly but no notice was taken of him for owing to our trench being practically unfit for warfare we also remained quiet uninterfered with by Fritz. It was impossible to carry on with trench digging, barb wiring & general consolidation for the ground was frozen as hard as blue metal so it only meant strict garrison duty for the front line trenches we only about seventy five yards apart. One night a hun became too familiar for he mounted their parapet & started to work on top with a pick right in front of my parapet. I thought that was too hot so I fired at him but evidently missed for he took his time & got down into the trench but shortly afterwards resumed the same duties so I fired again this time finding the mark for he lurched & fell forward into the trench.

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During this turn in the front line area it was worked on twenty four hours to a shift for one half of the company would occupy the front line while the other half occupied the supports & vice versa being changed over each night after dark. Supports were situated in a very spacious dug out well below the ground which had been made by our battalion miners & the troops were very comfortable in for it was very warm wire bunks had been erected inside for the men to sleep in. The duties were nil for no movement about ground was allowed by day & very little by night for the position was one of secret & only about a hundred yards in rear of the front line. This part of the front was called the Maize owing to the number of enemy trenches & strong points which dominated the place & was considered to be an exceptionally strong place. It was during the early part of the night of the 8th that the 1st Battalion arrived & relieved our battalion when we moved back to No 5 Camp at Bozintin. This camp was very comfortable for it consisted of huts well fitted out with stoves which were a great comfort owing to the severe cold weather. The following day half our company was sent to Clarkes Dump near Highwood on fatigue work which made the duties at Bazintin much easier for those who remained. I was left at the camp where things jogged along very quietly with hardly anything to do except keeping the camp clean. During the early hours of the 25th the troops were roused & told to "stand to" for it was found that the enemy had evacuated their forward positions which caused a considerable amount of excitement. Extra gear & ammunition was hurriedly issued, the half company was returned from Clarke’s Dump & orders issued for everyone to be ready to move off at a moments notice for at that time it was not definitely the reasons of the Huns evacuation. Our stay in the above camp lasted another two days &
[Image includes a hand drawn sketch titled "Rough Sketch Maize Sector]

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during that time no man was allowed away from the camp for orders were expected any moment to move forward. The expected move took place early on the night of the 27th when the battalion left Bazentin fully equiped ready for any emergency. When about a third of the journey had been completed petrol tins containing two gallons of water had to be picked up by every second man for a tin was to be carried between two men receiving strict instructions to make every effort in getting water to our destination. This water made a very great difference to the already over loaded troops but with the usual amount of growling they plodded along their way through mud & shell torn ground. After passing our old front line at the Maize our path was marched by a broard white tape which was to guide the incoming troops over the ground which had been vacated by the Huns during the dark hours of night. The progress across this vacated ground was very slow & strenuous having to pass over three of the huns lines which had been severely battered by our artillery during the past winter. After passing the third line we enter a big wood through which we passed then into the village of La Barque where we proceeded along the roads of the old village which were in good repair. We went to the far side of the village where the troops were taken into a big chalk pit where a short rest was enjoyed. After a while we moved out to the right from the pit to dig a support trench to the Eleventh Battalion who had that night advanced a few hundred yards. The ground we had to dig this trench in was virgin soil so far as warfare was concerned the grass being about three inches high & not disturbed by a shell hole. This was a sight for sore eyes in front line work after so much mud & slush which had been experienced during the past winter. After digging for about an hour orders were issued to prepared to move forward which was done & we went through the village of Thillay where we relieved the

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11th Battalion from the position they had advanced to that night. On relieving we found that more digging in had to be done so as to provide cover during daylight & this digging had to be carried out with entrenching tools for no shovels were available which made the task far from being easy. As soon as the relief was completed I was sent forward about four hundred yards with three men to act as a covering party to the company while they were digging in. When day broke next morning we could see the Huns moving about on the top of a big ridge some eleven hundred yards away behind which lay the city of Bapaume. our duties in this position were to remain as quiet as possible during the day to prevent enemy observation and consolidation & patrol work of a night. Patrol work was carried out very extensively by both sides which often ended in our patrols meeting Fritz always ending in a fair dinkum go in the dark. During the night of the 28th a very strong enemy patrol worked its way in behind our "B" Company taking most of it prisoners but after a scramble most of our boys managed to get away but before doing so took several of the Huns prisoners.
the Huns that did escape captured returned to their lines with thirteen of our boys these being the first in the battalion to be taken prisoners of war. our stay lasted fifty two hours in this position & during that time we were not troubled much although the enemy tried to find our position with artillery, trench mortars & machine guns but the distance was to great for him to be accurate. our company suffered only four casualties caused by a Pineapple trench mortar landing in a machine gun post wounding four of the gun crew. it was well into the night of the 1st of March when we were relieved by the 5th Battalion then started to move back & after wandering about until nearly daylight found our position in big German dug outs used as reserves at the Maize. This place was so called owing to its net work of trenches & under ground which were a great system of defence & it was in one of these dug outs, which was inhabited by millions of lice, that we spent our time. We occupied this position for six days & during that period I was able to have a good look over the ground Fritz had first evacuated. It was a wonder he had held the position for so long for his, first, second & third lines were simply torn to pieces by our artillery & in many cases his big dug outs had been pierced by heavy shells & the dug outs completely blown in. His dead were lying about everywhere appearing as though he had been unable to bury them & that job fell to us for orders were issued to bury all dead this having to be done about dusk each evening. He also had mines set everywhere especially in all the big dug out but luck favoured us for all those that were discovered were successfully unload, mostly by the engineers without suffering a casualty. Within a few hundred yards to the right of the dug out we occupied were signs of some previous Australian struggle of a very strenuous character. It appeared to me to have been a raiding party which had met with very disastrous results for the old no mans land was spotted with dead belonging to some unit of our Second Division as indicated by the shape of the colors on their shoulders but at that time the colors had faded with age being indiscernable. Most of the dead men were armed with revolvers & a number of small cog wheels attached to short thick sticks were lying about these being impliments that were generally used by raiding parties instead of rifles & bayonets which were considered too awkward in such operations. Several of the men had been caught in the enemy’s barb wire entanglements including a sergeant who had practically

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reached the Huns parapet before being killed. The bodies had evidently been lying there for some time but owing to the freeze of winter were fairly well preserved which enabled us to bury them to the best of our ability, standing something up at their heads to indicate that a soldier was buried there. This was done so that the dead men may be located by the graves section who followed on burying our dead in properly formed cemetries. Slightly to the south of the Maize was the "Butte de Warlencourt" where the "Aussies" made a great name for themselves just previous to this time. The chief duties carried out by us whilst in this position were ammunition fatigues & burial parties but neither of these duties were very strenuous & I also spent my 20th Birthday in this position. The 20th Battalion arrived during the night of the 7th of March to relieve us & this being done we marched back to Bazentin where we were put into No 2 Camp for the night. Before turning in the troops were given a good meal followed by a big rum issue after which the boys lay down for a well earned rest. After breakfast next morning the battalion set off & after a short march we were put into huts at Marmetz Camp. our stay in this camp lasted a few days our only duties during that time being short route marches without gear which was very acceptable for it provided necessary exercise for the weather was still very cold. A Boxing Tournament was also organized which gave the boys some welcome amusement & past time for some very good contests took place. When the battalion moved off on the 16th the men were all feeling fit again & completed the march to Dernacourt where we were put into billets without turning a hair. This being the first village the troops had been in for nearly two months they spent their money freely on eggs & such foods that were not issued in the army, also patronizing the Estaminets for their beer during the drinking hours.
[Image includes a hand drawn sketch titled "Rough Sketch Showing Evacuated German territory in The Maize Sector]

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Our stay at Dernacourt lasted a couple of days & during that time the boys had very little to do except rest themselves. During the morning of the 21st of March the battalion set off on the march once more this time going back to Ribemont where we told we were to remain for a few days on training for the front line again. On the 25th our battalion played the Brigade Trench Mortar Battery football resulting in a win for us by 13 points to nil but at the same time providing a good afternoons enjoyment for all. During the stay here plenty of parade ground drill with occasional long route marches were indulged in which soon had the troops properly fit once more. After ten days training we had to pack up & moved back towards the front line that day marching about twelve miles to Montauban where we were put into huts for the night. The next morning saw the battalion on the move again this march proving to be one of the hardest ever experienced by the battalion. Throughout the whole way a blizzard raged & half the journey was along a duck board track where the snow that had fallen was frozen to the boards making the walking extremely hard & slippery. The marched finished at Fremicourt after fifteen miles of the best & was not long before we had a big fire going in an old billet to dry our clothes & also to get warm. I had to do the whole of the above march with one boot off owing to a septic heel for the Doctor would not send me to hospital but I stuck the march out, arriving at the destination with the boys, not being sorry when it was over. before turning in that night a good meal was issue after which the boys sat talking around the fire for a while then turned in for a well earned rest. next morning having nothing to do I took a stroll round the villages to view the damage which the huns had done before evacuating & it was cruel to see for even the old church was simply one big heap of stones & there was not a house left standing intact.

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That afternoon the battalion moved forward across open country the only signs of warfare being long rows of barb wire which the huns had erected at intervals to harrass our advance. When about two thirds of the journey had been completed we came across several batteries our light field artillery who had their guns in position but the men were engaged in a game of football. After passing the artillerymen we passed through a big wood when my platoon was taken to a big railway embankment on the far side of Velu Wood where we relieved the 53rd Battalion. Half the company with headquarters remained in the wood to act as supports for the post on the railway line was only to give warning of enemy movement out in front. I was instructed to make my men keep a sharpe look out for it was known that the enemy was still retiring but his exact positions were not known. Nothing had been seen of Fritz by night fall so a big patrol was sent forward who returned about two hours later after covering several hundred yards without seeing the enemy. In the meantime another platoon had been sent to my position to relieve my platoon for I had received orders to go forward & to the right to dig a post so as to protect the right flank of the company from any enemy patrol. Before daylight that night the company was moved forward some hundreds of yards to a big embankment, without encountering the hun where we were instructed to make the embankment a fighting position for it was to act as the front line. On arriving at the bank I was again sent forward about two hundred yards to dig an advance post to act as a covering party for the company while they were digging in. I had to remain in this post with three men until daylight when I received orders to return to the company where we had to set to & make ourselves dug outs for shelter for the weather was still cold with occasional snow storms. During the night of the 6th two platoons of our company move up from the rear to an embankment about fifty yards behind us where they dug in to act as supports to the front line. That night our company sent out further patrols to find the lay of the country ahead these patrols returning early with news that Fritz was still a good way off although some of his posts had been recently occupied. On receipt of this news it was decided to send a platoon forward about five hundred yards to a sunken road to act as the front line. prior to this platoon moving forward half of my platoon set out to capture a small hun post which had been occupied the night previous but on reaching the post it was found to have been vacated so saving my boys the trouble of taking it. By this time we were well on the Huns heels for we could feel his resistance tightening & his defences becoming much stronger so next night it was decided to take the village of Hermies also a line of strong outposts which was strongly held. This meant that hard fighting would be necessary for these strong points were likely to hold up our further advance which was most important for by this time all knew that Fritz had not yet completed his retirement to the Hindenburg Line. our next move took place after dusk on the night of the 8th April when my platoon was sent forward to the sunken road then occupied by the remainder of the company who were to act as supports to C & D companies of our battalion who were to do the attacking accompanied by the 2nd Battalion on their left that night. When zero hour arrived C & D companies hop out & as I afterwards learned took the line of strong points with very little effort the 2nd Battalion having to fight very hard for the village our Hermies which was successfully taken. our half battalion (C & D) experienced some very heavy machine gun fire which luckily was very eratic for the Huns were firing at random without having very much effect. The stunt proved very successful for all objectives were gained advancing about a mile & our battalion captured 250 prisoners & 7 machine guns.

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When things had settled down my platoon was taken forward to another sunken road having to make it a fighting position for we were to act as supports to the front line. After making ourselves comfortable dug outs we set out to explore the positions which had been captured that morning. The Hun dug outs in the vicinity proved to be very fruitful to the troops for Fritz had evidently received a big parcel mail. that night & had not had time to open his parcels before our attack. These parcels contained eggs, bacon, german sausage, & several other luxuries & besides these parcels there was any amount of beer, wine, brandy & whisky, all these being confiscated by our boys who treated them the same way as Fritz would have done. This sort of thing proved conclusively that the men who engaged in fighting the enemy’s rear guard action were being treated exceptionally well, at the same time being grogged to enable them to hold the positions until it was time for them to evacuate. The enemy’s outpost system at this particular place was very strong & well concealed for the posts could not be seen for more than a hundred yards away but at the same time they could command the ground we had to advance over for hundreds of yards. It was a wonder to me how our battalion had managed to capture such a position with so few casualties. Whilst in this position I witnessed the Tommies on our right advancing in daylight which was a great sight for our position was only a few hundred yards away & the fighting which was of a mild nature could be seen quite plainly but the positions were easily taken with very few casualties. During the morning of the 10th I was sent with three other N.C.O’s to have a look at the positions occupied by the 2nd Battalion in front of Hermies. This was carried out in daylight & during our return journey the Huns amused themselves by sniping at us but luckily all his shots went wide but at the same time we finished the journey in a run being out of breath on reaching supports. That same night our platoon was taken forward with the remainder of the company to relieve the 2nd Battalion at Hermies. That night I was put in charge of three men on a post in the banks of a railway cutting running direct to the Huns line at the same time being the most advanced post of the company. This post was an extremely ticklish one for the Huns were able to enfilade the position with machine guns which meant it was impossible to move about during the day & every precaution had to be at night for it was never known when the hun may open out with his machine guns. During the whole time here it snowed & rain heavily which made things very uncomfortable for the troops for they were exposed to all weather for there was very little cover available. We also experienced some fairly heavy artillery fire which kept the boys quiet for we had not been troubled by shells for some time, but this went to prove to everyone that the Hun had practically completed his retirement to the Hindenberg Line. patrols were sent out during the night to explore the country ahead & on several occasions out patrols met similar parties of the Huns which resulted in small skirmishes but we suffered no casualties nor captured any prisoners. From the information given by these patrols it was found possible for the battalion to advance which was carried out during the night of the 13th of April. On this night we advanced several hundred yards my platoon being taken to the left where we received orders to dig a trench astride a road leading towards the enemy so as to command the road in the event of an attack. This movement was carried out very cautiously for it was known that the enemy was in the vicinity but we reached our objective uninterfered with & started to dig in as quietly as possible. After getting down about three feet it was found that the enemy was working round our right flank owing to the company on our right not coming up in line, this information being supplied by a small patrol of the company who were

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sent out in front to guard the remainder while they were digging the new front line. On receipt of this news the company commander ordered us to fall back about two hundred & fifty yards where we had to dig in being well down by daylight. That day the enemy aircraft were very busy hovering over our new front line positions a great deal with intimated to us that the enemy was paying us unusual attention for his airmen were taking great risks continually flying very low. The troops were also told to pack up their gear ready to move out for we were to be relieved that night this news being very much appreciated by all. However at dusk the company sergeant major came to inform us that the relief had been cancelled & instead we were to go forward to the position evacuated the previous night & dig in. This movement was carried out successfully & the boys were soon busy strengthening their positions with orders to remain as quiet as possible so as not to be detected by the enemy. Things went along very well until just before daylight when the Huns opened out with a fairly heavy bombardment which did not trouble us in any way for the shells were concentrated of the trenches we occupied the day previous two hundred & fifty yards in rear. The move that night had proved very lucky for us for it proved to the troops that the enemy’s aircraft observation the day previous had been perfect for that trench was completely filled in. The bombardment was followed by a big counterattack but it did not reach our company front but still we could see line after line of the huns emerging from a big dag heap, near the river, on our left in fours marching as though on parade ground work affording good targets to our machine gunners who were soon busy mowing down the enemy in hundreds. Although our company was not faced by the attack our company machine guns played a great part from our flank which proved great assistance to "B" Company on our left.
[Image includes a hand drawn sketch showing the Australian and German positions around the village of Hermies during early to mid April 1917]

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Later in the day I learned that the Huns had attacked along the whole divisional front getting a foothold in one place only at Lagnacourt where he pierced the 3rd Brigade lines but was soon driven out with extremely heavy losses in killed, wounded & prisoners of war. Our battalion had succeeded in holding the attack everywhere inflicting hundreds of casualties, suffering very few ourselves. After the counterattack things moved along very quietly as far as fighting was concerned for a couple of days, but the rain set in which made things very uncomfortable for the boys had absolutely no cover whatever. We were surprised one night whilst here by hearing a huge dull explosion followed by falling timber & earth & we were afterwards told that it was a time fused mine which had been set by Fritz in the village of Hermies but luckily caused no damage when it went off. By the time we were relieved by the 2nd Battalion on the night of the 16th the mud in the front line was knee deep. When the incoming battalion arrived they told us that they had been sent to Lagnacourt during the counterattack where they remained until things settled down & were then brought straight back to relieve our battalion. After being relieved the company straggled back into Hermies progress being very slow owing to the mud & slippery paths. On reaching Hermies we were led to the railway station then started to follow along the railway line which made the walking much easier but the enemy kept dropping shells along the whole route making things very uncomfortable. When nearing Beaumetz about dawn we left the railway line & when we had just entered the village three shells fell among the company killing two men & wounding several this having a very demoralizing effect upon the the remainder for it was as dark as pitch & the shells kept falling at intervals most of them being very close. After going to the far side of the village were put into billets

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it then being about dawn. It was not long before the troops had a good fire going to dry & warm themselves & a good hot meal was soon on the job after which all hand indulged in a well earned sleep. That afternoon when the boys were awakened orders were issued to leave the village on account of the enemy shell fire & our company had to go to a sunken road on the outskirts where we made ourselves dug outs in the banks of the road. After a couple of hours hard work everyone had a good comfortable dug out which were all made from timber & iron out of the village & that night everyone was fairly happy. The village of Beametz was practically deserted being another of those places which the Hun had wilfully destroyed before he had evacuated. On the night of the 20th three platoons, mine included were out on fatigue but on arriving at the destination it was found that there were only sufficient tools for two platoons so I received orders to take my boys back to their dug outs. The next morning I was sent with six men to Brigade Headquarters in the village to act as Brigade guard to twenty four hours. That same afternoon the battalion was sent into the front line again our company being sent into supports in a sunken road to the left of the village of Demicourt. I was relieved from guard the following day the 22nd then at dusk set out to find the company in supports which I succeeded in doing after an hours marching. The duties in supports were to carry rations of a night to the front line companies from an old farm house used for cooking near reserves. Throughout the couple of days we remained here things were very quiet, the monotony being broken by numerous airial combats resulting in several planes on both sides being brought down. During the early evening of the 24th the battalion was relieved by the Yorks & Lancs Imperial Regiment, then set out across country to Velu Wood to bivouac for the night. Close by the bivouacs were the ruins of a big French Chateau which had been shockingly destroyed by the enemy during their retreat. Next morning the battalion moved further back to Reincourt Camp, where the troops were put into tents, which was situated midway between the villages of Reincourt & Beaulincourt about a mile north of Bapaume. The stay in this camp was very short for the following afternoon the battalion was march to a similar road near the village of Veaux to relieve the 18th Battalion who we were told was to practice a big forthcoming stunt. Our stay here only lasted the night for the 18th battalion relieved us early next morning after which we moved back to Reincourt camp. During the couple of days the battalion spent in this camp the troops were sent on salvage duties having to collect all the old iron & clothing placing it in heaps so that it may be collected & sent back to be remade. On the 29th orders were issued to be ready to move forward as we were to go to Veaux to again relieve the 18th battalion for the same purpose as previously mentioned. When the company was lined up ready to move off the company commander came to inform me that I would shortly be sent to England for a six month spell in the Training Battalion. This news staggered me for it came as a very great surprise for such a happening was a thing undreamt of as far as I was concerned. I was very light hearted when the company moved & on reaching Veaux I was put in charge of an outpost on the side of the main road leading to the forward area about 4,000 yards in rear of the front line. From this post we could see the artillery ammunition columns taking up ammunition & the battalion transports rations during the daytime under full observation of the enemy.

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Fritz made very good use of his observation for he shelled the ammunition columns which would caused the artillerymen to spur their horses into a gallop which although very uncomfortable to them it was a great sight to see these teams of six horses attached to limbers going at full stretch gallop to & from the front line. Many field guns were also blown out by the enemy also several direct his were obtained on our ammunition dumps which would cause considerable explosions & the dumps would burn for hours. The casualties among the artillerymen were heavy & many a poor horse & mule suffering in the attempt to supply the guns with shells. We were not allowed to remain idle in this position for orders were issued to consolidate the outpost we occupied this work was carried during the night so as to avoid observation so as to conceal our positions. During the 2nd of May orders were issued for all hand to get their gear into battle order also place all unnecessary gear into our pack ready to stack in heaps at dusk. During the early part of the night the 4th Battalion arrived to releive us & this being done our company was instructed to assemble in a sunken road outside Veaux for the battalion was to act as reserves to the 2nd Division who were going to attack the Hindenberg Line at Bullecourt that night. After being releived I was told to report to Company Headquarters with full gear up where I was informed by the Company Commander that I was to start on my journey for the Training Battalion in England for six months. A sergeant out of the company was also detailed & on receiving instructions we set out for the Battalion detail camp at Rinecourt feeling very pleased with ourselves for we were missing a big stunt also with thoughts of England. Before arriving at the camp our artillery opened out with the preliminary barrage for the coming stunt of the second battle of Bullecourt which will live for ever in the annals of Australian History. On reaching the camp the sergeant & myself were allotted to a tent to ourselves then a good hot meal was issued after which we retired for the night accompanied by the rumble of the barrage which by this time had grown terrific. Next morning we were not disturbed until late but on awakening found the barrage was still raging fiercely & on getting up we found that there were several N.C.O’s in the camp who were going to England with us. During the day news came through from the front line telling us that the 22nd Division had been unable to hold on to the ground captured so our battalion had been sent into the front line to help strengthen the position. Our battalion paid very dearly for this move for they experienced some very heavy fighting in the Hindenberg Line but still succeeded in carrying out the task allotted to them. My next couple of days were spent very quietly in & about the camp but during the 5th I went into Bapaume to have a look round the ruins of that city. It had been a fine big city but like all the other French towns & villages its building are jammed up close together but at this time the place could only be described as one big heap of detritus owing to the wilful distruction by the huns prior to their evacuation. I also saw the famous Town hall which had been blown down by the big timed fuse mine that had been set by Fritz for a trap but the building at this time was nothing to look at. Since the British Military Authorities had occupied the place they had had it cleaned up with all the roads & thoroughfares repaired & put into working order the most of this work being done by Huns prisoners of wars who were stationed there for that purpose. About midday on the 7th orders were issued for the N.C.O’s who were going to England to get ready to move off. This was only a matter of a few minutes & when all the party fell in I found that it consisted of five others beside myself thus making six from the battalion all told.

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On receiving instructions are small party set off on the march going as far as Divisional Headquarters just in rear of Bapaume where we were immediately given a pay then told to stand bye. While waiting N.C.O’s arrived from all the battalions in the division & when every battalion was represented the party was fallen in, there being about fifty N.C.O’s, for an inspection by the Divisional Commander who thanked us for past services also wishing us a good holiday. He also emphasized the training of the recruits in England who were to be the men for the future upholding of our respective battalions Good names won on the field. After the inspection the party was marched to the rear of headquarters where we were put into huts for the night near the village of Bancourt. About midnight our slumber was disturbed by huge detonations caused by exploding bombs dropped by the enemy aircraft. This caused a considerable amount of excitement for some of the bombs fell uncomfortably close which made the most of us wonder if out trip to England was to be spoiled right on the eve of our departure. However things soon settled down again so the troops indulged in a few more winks until daylight. Every one was up bright & early next morning & after breakfast we received instructions to make our way independently to the Reinforcement camp at Albert. Several of us set off together but after walking a short distance managed to catch a motor lorry which took us right into the camp at Albert. During the way in we passed through the old village of Pozieres which at that time was used to accommodate troops in huts & dug outs for the front line area. On arriving at the camp in Albert we were allotted to huts & on being fixed up several of us wandered into the town where we managed to get a hot bath & clean change of underclothing. After having a look round we spent a couple of hours in a picture show which had been established in the old town for the troops benefit. After spending a very pleasant evening we made our way back to the camp to enjoy another nights good rest. Next morning all gear was packed up early then the party proceeded to the Railway Station where after waiting a few hours we got aboard a train consisting of cattle trucks. When the train pulled into Amiens Station orders were received for our party to get out which we did & was then told that we would have to wait for two hours before proceeding further. We did not mind this in the least for after succeeding in dodging the military police at the station several of us made our way into the city where we spent two very enjoyable hours. Everyone was present on the station at 6PM & we left Amiens at 6.15PM by passenger train which was far more comfortable than the previous part of the journey in cattle truck. The journey from Amiens until dark was very pleasant for the scenery was beautiful on account of the fields & hedges which were beginning to shows their new spring foliages. After five hours ride the train steamed into Boulougne where we disentrained & fell into fours on the station the party then being taken to big billets a short distance away. As soon as everyone was fixed up in the billets a good hot meal was issued to all after which the boys indulged in a talk for a while the main topic being "the trip to England". It was not long however before I lay down for a comfortable sleep for a good bed was available & as I lay there before dosing I could not help thinking of the wonderful tomorrow & how lovely it would be if I could only let my people know way back in Aussie that I was well away from the horrors of war even if it only to be for a short period. It was during these meanders that I eventually fell of to sleep quite satisfied with the present situation. Everyone was astire in the billet at daybreak & to my surprise on awakening I found the place was inhabited by numbers of Imperial men, who I learned from talking with them were proceeding

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to their homes in England on furlough. The interior of this building, which was very spacious, reminded me very much of a disturbed ant heap for every one was busy in different occupations such as rolling up & stacking bed & bedding, dressing, cleaning boots, washing & making themselves as spick & span as possible. After breakfast the troops were compelled to remain in the billet which was extremely monotonous & trying for the was absolutely nothing to do, so the time dragged on until 9.30AM when orders were issued to prepare to move. The move took place half an hour later when the troops were marched down on to the wharf in fours where we had a further wait of about two hours. We were eventually put aboard the channel troopship "Victoria" and once all were aboard did not have long to wait for the ship soon steamed out of the harbour accompanied by six similar vessels with a big destroyer & an airship as escort. Once outside the harbour the whole convoy put on full speed, it not being long before the shores of Frances began to grow dim in the distance; thus bidding adieu to the country, which all had cause to remember for a period, the length of which would only be known in the light of further events.
England
With France out of sight everybody on board was looking for their first glimpse of the coast of England & when it appeared the excitement immediately became very intense. The Imperial troops aboard were indulged in talking about their homes & people towards whom they were being hurried, on the other hand the Colonial Troops were discussing the Home land which to the most of them was the first sight of that great country which they had heard so much about from the time they had been able to understand its importance. As we approached the coast the convoy had entered in a race for the first ship to enter the harbour & although we had been the last to leave Boulougne we now held the first place. After one hour & twenty five minutes run our ship was tied up along side the wharf in Folkestone thus really seeing England for the first time in my life on the 9th of May 1917. It was great to know that I had arrived in a country which was so much like the Native Land for having lived so long under uncivilized conditions on one hand & among people who did not speak your own tongue on the other made the place all the more acceptable. When the ship had tied up & the gangways were swung the Australian troops were ordered aboard a waiting train on the wharf, occupying first class carriages. The train soon steamed out of Folkestone on that never to be forgotten trip, for being the first time in England the thoughts of it filled me to the brim with excitement for each fleeting mile brought something new & interesting to the eye. After two & a half hours ride the train pulled into Victoria Station London where we disentrained & was lined up in fours being taken to A.I.F. Headquarters at Horseferry Road. Here our party was given a pay then told we could have leave until 2 P.M. the next day but at that time (2P.M. on 10.5.17) all were to be at Waterloo station to catch the 2.10PM train for Salisbury for the Training Battalion.

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After being fixed up at Headquarters several of us made our way to the War Chest Club where we enjoyed a meal under civilized condition which was the first for some time then booked beds for the night before proceeding into the city. Being the first time in London for the most of us it was a case of guessing where to go or what to do for we knew absolutely nothing about the place except from what we had others talking about. Three of us decided to see things through together so it was decided to make our way to Leicester Square which was done by taxi. On leaving the car when we reached the square we were practically lost, but after wandering about for awhile we came to the Hippodrome Theatre where we spent the evening see the big revue called zig zag. After the show we were again bushed for neither of us knew which direction to start out to find the War Chest Club but after wandering around for fully half an hour managed to find a taxi in a side street which soon took us to our destination where a peaceful slumber was soon enjoyed. Next morning was spent in wandering about having a look at the great city but not having much time no note was taken of anything in particular. Our party started to congregate at Waterloo Station a few minutes before 2 PM all being aboard the train in plenty of time. The train moved out at exactly 2.10 PM & was soon passing through the outer suburbs of the great city, the scenery proving very interesting for it was so different to our own country. The journey passed uneventful until arriving at Andover where we had to alight for we had to change train to Salisbury & arriving there after a short ride received orders to get out. On leaving this train at Salisbury we had to march to the other end of the platform where we got aboard another train which soon started to move this stage of the journey also being short for we alighted at Amesbury the nearest station to our destination. When we had alighted we were informed that it was a good two miles walk to the camp so several of us decided to go by Taxi which proved a good idea for we were soon landed at the camp without any trouble of walking & carrying our gear. After reporting to Headquarters of the 1st New South Wales Training Battalion at Lark Hill Durrington we were soon allotted to our respective huts which were very comfortable. After disposing of our gear in the hut a good meal was issued after which we had a talk with old members of our battalion who were in the camp they being very curious about their mates & the disposition of the unit when we left them in France. It was late that night before we started for bed but turned in about midnight in a good comfortable slumber after a very tiring days travel. This camp was situated on the Salisbury plains which at that time was the training ground for practically all Australian reinforcements before proceeding to France & the camps covered some acres of ground. After a couple of days spell our party of N.C.O’s, which had been christened "The Fragments from France" had to settle down to parade ground work. There were a fair number of reinforcements in the camp which meant that there was plenty of instruction to give by the N.C.O’s but the job was undertaken with a good heart. Camp life here was much appreciated after the line in France for I shared a nice little cubicle with a mate having a good bed with plenty of blankets & the food was also good & plentiful. On Sunday 13th of May I received leave to go into Salisbury so after walking to Amesbury with a mate we caught a motor bus which soon covered the twelve miles to Salisbury in a very short time for the roads in these parts are kept in perfect order. Salisbury is a fine big city being specially noted for its cathedral the spire of which is the tallest in England; the cathedral is surrounded by big lawns & walks which on Sundays proved a great rendezvous for the people of the city & the soldiers who were encamped on the plains at that time. The river Avon flows through the city & along its banks in

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many places small parks & walks have been made being well layed out which added greatly to the beauty of the city. The city is practically surrounded by big hills & from the tops of these good views were in abundance. After spending a very enjoyable days leave we returned to camp by taxi late that night when we turned into bunks. Next morning I received orders to proceed to Birkenhead with one man to act as escort to bring back a chap out of our battalion who had been caught in that city by the police being about with out leave. After having dinner I set out with the escort having to walk to Amesbury station to catch the train. The train left Amesbury about 3PM but it only took us as far as Salisbury where I found we had some time to wait for the London train. We passed the time away by going into Salisbury where we had tea then a walk round for a hour then made our way back to the station & caught a fast train to London alighting at Waterloo station. On making enquiries at Waterloo I found that we could not proceed further until next morning so decided to make the best use of the time available so we took a tube for Leicester Square. After spending several pleasant hours in the heart of the big city we made our way out to Paddington to stay for the night for it was from here we resumed the journey next morning. After breakfast next morning we made our way to Paddington station where we caught a fast train at 10.30 for Birkenhead. It was not very long before London & suburbs were left behind then our journey lay through beautiful country passing many big towns everything being most interesting to me for it was country that I had never seen before. The train took us up through the eastern parts of Wales where the scenery still retained its beauty the whole trip being most enjoyable & a sight worth seeing. On arriving at Birkenhead I immediately made my way to the Civil police station where I was informed that the man I was sent for was there safely in the cells. As the train for London did not leave until late that night I decided to leave the prisoner in the hands of the police until the escort & I went for a stroll round the town to pass the time away. When we had gone a short distance from the police station I learned from a sailor that the H.M.A.S. Melbourne was in dock at Birkenhead so having a mate aboard this ship we at once set out to find it. On investigating I eventually found out that the Melbourne was in Cammell Lairds dry dock so made our way there, where after inquiries my mate was sent for & was soon on the spot. It was some time before we obtained leave to go aboard the ship for several detec3tives were stationed at the entrance of the dock who asked us several questions so as to prove our identity. The ship was under going a general overhauled also being fitted with a new crows nest mast & a Mine Shield which was a long piece of steel on the nose which could easily be blown off should it strike a mine without damaging the ship also several other improvements. Everything was very interesting aboard especially the Guns & torpedo deck where I spent some time in having a look round. We had tea aboard among the sailors who were as interested in us as we were in them for they would ask us questions about the army then compare them with the navy & in this way I spent a very pleasant time. After tea I was taken to an adjoining dock where I was shewn a big floating crane which had recently been captured from the Huns whilst enroute to South America from Germany. The above is all that could be found out about the crane so after having a look at it we decided to make our way into the town with my mate off the ship to celebrate the occasion. After having a look round for a while we reported to the police station for our prisoner who gave his word that he would not attempt to escape but would go back to camp with us without any trouble.

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It was not long before we made our way to the station where we go aboard a train saying good bye to my sailor mate & Birkenhead about 10.30 PM. On arriving at Chester after an hours travel I found we had to change trains but however did not have long to wait for the next. This second stage proved to be about the same distance as the first for on arriving at Crewe found that we had to again change trains. It was about midnight when we stepped out on to Crewe platform it being fairly cold & as we had some time to wait the time became very monotonous for there was nothing to see or do except walk about to keep warm. It was well into the morning when our train arrived which took us to Euston Station London after a lot of stopping. On alighting at Euston we took the tube to Charing Cross where we had to change into another tube for Waterloo Station arriving at the Later about 6 AM. It did not take us long to find our train which moved out about twenty five minutes later was soon covering the distance to Salisbury where we changed trains for Amesbury. We arrived back in camp about midday after walking from Amesbury station, then handed over the prisoner to the Sergeant of the guard then made our way to the huts for a meal & a sleep. The following evening accompanied by a couple of mates we went to have a look round Durrington which is only a very small but yet a pretty village with a small population. After going round the village we made our way out to see the "Old Village Blacksmiths Shop under the Spreading Chestnut Tree" which we had read about as school boys in Longfellows Poem. About a week later I was sent to No 3 officers Training School at Candahar Barracks Tidworth which is one of several barracks there, these barracks are supposed to be the most comfortable military quarters in the world. Adjoining Candahar is the Bhurtpore Barracks which at that time was the A.I.F. Headquarters of the Southern Command in England. Tidworth itself is only a very small village but is beautifully layed out with artificial forest through which runs a number of small water course & the roads are all asphalt which practically make the whole place perfect. The barracks are also surrounded by tennis courts, polo grounds, football grounds & a cricket ground which have been made for the benefit of the troops stationed at Tidworth. About a mile away to the South East of Tidworth lay the big Australian Detail camp of Perim Downs which at this time acommodated some thousands of troops. The Australians in this camp were men who were training for their return to the units in the field after being evacuated from hospital through sickness or wounds received in France. The course of training at the school was most interesting touching on all the most important subjects of military training on all the most important subjects of military training, organisation, & administration. The staff consisted of all Imperial officers & senior N.C.Os who had been well schooled in their respective subjects & after many years of training showed us what real peacetime soldiering meant for very few of the staff had taken part in the great war up to that time. The training extended beyond the school grounds for manouvres were carried out both day & night covering miles especially in subjects like patrols or attacking concealed positions at night. Bicycles were often used for such subjects as map reading, Billeting of troops & scouting & throughout the whole of these trainings not one grew monotonous. Leave was granted of a Sunday & on these occasions I made use of same by going to Salisbury which was done by a big motor bus. This was a beautiful trip for the weather was good which accompanied by the scenery which in these parts is beautiful made the trip worth while. There were plenty of amusements in the Barracks for there were several picture shows & Y.M.C.As, billiard rooms & also a big theatre which put on some very good shows.

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The written examination took place on the 13th August 1917 the results of which were announced two days later when I found I had succeeded in gaining a pass with 63 per cent. Our good times at the school came to an close on the 17th August when all hands were given a pay & three days leave. I decided to spend my three days at Bournemouth so left Tidworth by train that night & after changing trains at Andover & Salisbury arrived at Bournemouth about 10.30PM that night. Bournemouth is a fine seaside resort beautifully laid out with big lawns, gardens & walks which provide plenty of scope for sight seeing there also being plenty of accommodation in the city for visitors & tourists. The beach is a very nice white sand, there also being a big Pier which extends out into the sea for a couple of hundred yards on which the band plays of an afternoon & evening. I spent three very pleasant days here for the weather remained fine the whole time & there was also a good assortment of amusements to pass the time away. I left Bournemouth at 6PM on the Monday night arriving back in camp at 10.30PM feeling very sorry for myself after such good times. Next day I had to face the work on the parade ground once more which proved a terrible strain after such a good holiday. Things were very quiet in camp but occasionally some excitement was raised in the Corporals’ Mess of an evening with concert parties & card tournaments. The week ends were generally spent in Salisbury dodging the Military police for more often than not the troops never took the trouble to apply for leave, thus getting a pass but would sooner run the risk of being caught about without leave. Some very good boxing tournaments were conducted in the camp & it was here that Digger Evans the famous soldier boxer first became prominent winning every fight he had. I was granted my ten days furlough dating from the 17th September 1917 so prepared my self for the ordeal. On Sunday the 16th September I obtained leave into Salisbury where I spent the day then that night I gave my Salisbury pass to a mate to take back to camp for me for I was going to stay the night in Salisbury. I went to a Hotel near the station where I put up for the night so as to enable me to make a flying start on my furlough next day. After breakfast next morning I made my way to the railway station where I caught a fast train for London arriving at Waterloo Station about midday after four hours travelling. I spent the remainder of that day looking round the big city spending the evening at a theatre after which I turn in being well satisfied with the preliminary of my furlo. Next day the 18th I left London from Victoria Station at 1.55PM for Brighton arriving there after a very pleasant journey at 3PM where I was met by an old friend with whom I had arranged to stay with for a few days. I remained in Brighton for eight days & during that time had a very enjoyable time. Brighton being one of England’s greatest seaside resorts has many places of interest the place being well patronized by thousands each summer on holidays. The city itself is well laid out with fine big buildings especially along the sea front which mostly consist of Hotels, boarding houses & private homes which are used by the wealthier class during the summer months. Along the foreshore is a very broard footpath with big lawns & gardens these extending for some miles spotted here & there with band stands. Further to the south near Hove the sea front is very pretty for it at this place where the wealthy class usually parade themselves on Sunday mornings. There are two big Piers which extend out into the sea for a couple of hundred yards both of these being very spacious for they accommodated a picture show & several bands stands on each. At the end of each Pier arrangement had been made for swimming so on several occasion I availed myself of the opportunity

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Of having a dip in the briny. My evenings were mostly spent at theatres & picture shows there being a fair number of these places in the city which prevented the time from growing monotonous. On the 22nf accompanied by my friend we went by motor to Eastbourne another seaside resort about fourty miles distant to the east this proving a very successful trip. Eastbourne is a much smaller place than Brighton but it is an extremely pretty place being laid out with big lawns & gardens similar to hose at Brighton. There is also a big Pier extending out into the sea & after having tea on the pier we decided to wend our way back to Brighton. It was about 7.30P.M. when we left the motor then to finish the day off we went to a theatre where we spent a very pleasant evening. The beaches around Brighton are of a peculiar formation for instead of being a nice sand similar to our own, they are composed of shingles; small water worn stones of different colours & shapes which make a very peculiar noise when the waves break over them. I left Brighton after a very pleasant holiday by the 2 P.M. train on the 25th going as far as London for the night. That night in London I experienced a Hun Air Raid which was the most awful thing I had yet experienced for it was cruel to see women with babies in their arms & small children making for cover away from the bombs which were being dropped. It was about 7.30PM when the raid started & I was then making my way to a theatre & on going down to a tube station to catch a train I saw hundreds of people on the platform taking refuge there. After going to a theatre I was making my way to a hotel about midnight when I saw thousands of men, women and children still taking refuge on tube stations, in most cases they were sitting on the steps & platforms fast asleep with only a big coat for a covering. The 26th being my last day on furlo I spent the morning in having a final look round London for I had no idea how long it would be before I saw the great city again. I left London by the midday train going a far as Salisbury where I spent the remainder of the afternoon & evening going to a vaudeville show at night after which I returned to camp sick, sore & sorry after a real good time. Next morning on parade I was detailed with four other N.C.Os of our battalion to hold ourselves in readiness to return the battalion in France. We were also sent before a doctor for medical & dental inspection then instructed to stand bye to await orders to move. We were very lucky for we remained all that week in the camp also spent the week end in Salisbury having a real good time for we knew it would be the last. On Monday morning we received orders to the affect that the draft would proceed overseas that night & although we knew what it meant to go back to France everyone was happy enough to know they were going back to the old battalion. After having a very decent send off in the camp the draft fell in about 8PM consisting of five N.C.Os for each battalion in our Division being sixty men all told. The party started to move about 8.30PM & after marching about half a mile we were joined by sixty other N.C.Os of the 2nd 3rd & 4th Divisions & all being old soldiers it was a very happy party. We had to march to Amesbury Station which was soon done at an easy pace but at the same time it was a considerable strain for we had to carry full gear it being the first for some time. The party was put aboard a special train about 10.30PM when most of the boys settled down for a few hours sleep. Our slumber was disturbed during the early hours of the next morning by a porter calling out "Folkestone all out here".

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It was very sleepy body of men when they alighted on the platform but the fresh morning air soon had everyone wide awake. After waiting for a short while the party was marched to a big Imperial rest camp where we were told we would remain for a couple of hours. While waiting here rations were issued followed by a very rough & scanty breakfast which served as a good breaking in for the future. Our next move took place at 9AM when the party was marched through Folkestone down onto the wharf & straight about the S.S. princess Henry a channel troopship embarking about 10 AM. The ship was crowded to standing room with trips, who were mostly Imperial men returning to France after their furlough at home. Things were quiet on board for everyone seemed very sorry for themselves. Remembrances of the past few days were still fresh in their minds but were rapidly overcome by thoughts of the future for no one knew what it was to be; would we ever enjoy more good times in the old country which indeed to the "Aussie" had been a home away from home. It was not long before the ship untied then headed for the channel. Once outside the harbour it made straight for France & was not long before the coast line of England had faded into invisibility from the deck.
Back to France
On arriving back in France on the 2nd of October 1917 we found it to be exactly the same as when we left there some months previous. When we reached Boulougne there was no time lost for as soon as the ship tied up the Australians aboard were immediately disembarked & put on a waiting train of the wharf. It was not long before the train moved off on a journey which occupied the remainder of that day, all the next day the 3rd until the early hours of the morning of the 4th when we disentrained at Harfleur. On leaving the train orders were received for our party to line up in fours on the main road & when this was completed we set off on the march to the Australian Base Depot camp some two miles away. When we arrived at the camp the party was allotted to tents then being able to indulge in a well earned rest. There was nothing doing in the camp that day so late in the afternoon several of us obtain leave to go into the city of La Havre. The time spent in the city was very enjoyable for there are many places of interest but the most of these could not be seen owing to the darkness for lights were very much restricted on account of enemy aircraft. After a very pleasant night out we returned to camp about midnight & after finding our tent was soon wrapped up in slumber. Next morning our party from England was issued with all necessary front line kit, such as Gas Helmets, steel hats & rations also being instructed to stand bye ready to move off when required. The move took place at 4PM that afternoon, having to march to Le Havre station when we entrained in closed in trucks for the forward area. After spending all that night in the train & most of the

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Next day we detrained at Caestre a village to the south of Ypres in Belgium on Saturday the 6th of October. On leaving the train the party set out to find the Battalion but luckily did not have far to march to join our units details who were camped in tents. When we had been allotted to tents & settled down I learned that the battalion was up in the line at Passchendale experiencing some very trying conditions in the big offensive which was then in full swing. It started to rain about dusk but that did not stop several of us from going into Caestre where we able to buy a good meal then had a look round the village for a while before returning to camp. Next morning after breakfast orders were issued for all members of our battalion in the camp to pack up their gear ready to move off. Just prior to moving the rain started to fall very heavily the weather being bitterly cold but however this did not make any difference for we were soon on the road & marched to Caestre railway station. The wait at the station lasted about eight hours which was most uncomfortable for it rained the whole time with occasional snow falls & as there was no shelter available the troops had to walk about in the wet to keep warm. About dusk a train pulled into the station our party being ordered aboard & after a short ride we left the train on the western outskirts of Ypres then set out on the march. After ploughing our way across country through mud & shell holes for about an our in the dark the officer in charge discovered he had lost the way so ordered the party to about turn then made our way back to the railway. Eventually we found a man who guide us to the battalion transport lines where we were packed into tents for the night. Next morning I was detailed off with a party to go to an engineers dump to load the Battalion transport limbers with duck boards for the forward area. When the loading was completed I went with a limber to Anzac Ridge in rear of Passchendale to unloaded the duck boards. It was a most unpleasant trip for the traffic on the roads was congested the way lying through Ypres then along the Menin road for about a mile where we branched off onto a cordroi road which was made of sleepers to enable the vehicular traffic to cross the mud & shell torn country. This road was only wide enough to take one vehicle at a time it being a system of one way traffic for the return journey was via another cordroi road. The enemy had the range of these roads, for there were several of them, to a nicety being able to place a shell on it at any point he wished. The progress along this road was very slow but we eventually arrived at the top of the ridge where the duck boards were unloaded on the side of the road then set out for home. Just after the second limber started on the return journey the enemy opened out with his artillery, shelling the road, nearly every shell hitting it or just missing by inches. I was in the third limber & after getting a move on found things were very warm for the shells were falling near by & on one occasion a shell hit the centre of the road about twenty yards in front, frightening the two horses into a full stretch gallop. The horses jumped this shell hole in the road in their stride but the limber went into it which made things unpleasant for me for the hole was about four feet in diameter & the same in depth but I managed to stay in the limber receiving a severe shaking. It was not long before the driver regained control of the horses then took our place in the long columns of traffic on the Menin road back through Ypres. On returning to the transport lines we had to pack up all

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our gear & was then marched to Dickie "Busch" Camp about two miles further to the rear. At the camp we received orders to prepare it for the battalion who were being relieved from the front line that night so things were soon busy in cleaning the huts, drawing blankets, & helping the cooks to prepare a meal for all hands. The first of the Battalion started to arrive about midnight the men being tired, wornout & covered in mud from head to foot for the front line conditions, I learned, were awful. When most of the boys had arrived in the camp a good hot meal was issued after which a well earned rest was enjoyed. The stay in this camp only lasted overnight for about noon next day the 9th the battalion packed up then marched about a mile where the troops were put into motor lorries. The lorries took us back through Poperinghe to a camp called Connaught lines where the troops were put into tents. There was very little to do in this camp but owing to the recent rain there was plenty of mud about which made things most uncomfortable for the boys had wet feet the whole of the time. The battalion remained in this camp until the 16th when during that morning we were marched about half a mile where the troops were put aboard motor lorries which took us back towards the front line. The ride terminated at "Chateau Belge", just in rear of Ypres & near a place called Belgium Battery corner, where the battalion was put into very comfortable huts. The stay in this camp lasted some time our duties being fatigue work on the light railways up about Anzac Ridge about a mile in rear of the front line. These duties proved to be very unpleasant for reveille was very early of a morning then after breakfast the troops were marched about half a mile to a light railway which took them to Menin Road on the eastern side of Ypres. From here the remainder of the journey was done along a duck board track to Anzac ridge where the work was usually carried out. The whole of this part of the front was under direct observation of the enemy’s balloons with which he used to full advantage for there was hardly a day pass without our party being shelled with deadly accuracy. On several occasions during these shelling stunts the work was abandoned the party being sent home & we also suffered several casualties. During one of the shellings Fritz dropped a shell into an old disused gun pit setting a great quantity of cordite on fire near where my party was working. The cordite soon began to fiz burn furiously which caused the boys to scatter in all directions & it was funny to see all records being broken in getting out of the way for everyone expected to see the shells explode in the gun pit any moment. Although the happening may have proved serious it was treated as a joke causing a considerable amount of amusement for some time. The mud up about these parts was terrible for the ground was shell torn & sodden with recent heavy rains & it was marvellous to think that hostilities could be carried out with success under such adverse conditions. One on occasion when the troops were busy at work they were disturbed by a noise overhead & on looking up we could see about twenty Hun aeroplanes making straight for us, flying very low & when about five hundred yards away started to drop bombs which could be seen falling through the air. The boys immediately took cover in a drain on the side of the light railway & although the bombs fell all around us we suffered no casualties but it put the fear of God into every mans heart present. It was a terrible few minutes while it lasted for the bombs could be seen falling everyone appearing as though it was going to fall right on top of you & this combined with

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With the terrible detonations when the bombs exploded put the wind up all hands. Along both sides of the cordroi roads which led up to these parts of the front were dozens of dead horses & mules, every kind of military limbers even to Red Cross waggons which had been hit by enemy shells the sights being cruel but with all this the troops carried on in good spirits. The artillery ammunition columns experienced some terrible times here for the shells had to be carried up by pack horses & mules, each man laving two horses or mules under his charge. Owing to the excessive traffic on the cordroi roads & not being allowed to use the duck board tracks these artillerymen were compelled to take the ammunition overland. Tis was an awful job for the poor animals often became bogged in the mud & shell holes often having to be dug out & in several occasions the animals became so fast & deep in the mud that they had to be abandoned or shot for it was impossible to get them out of it. One good thing about this job was that we had real good comfortable huts to live in when not on fatigue always being able to get a good square meal. The Divisional Concert party established themselves in a big hut near bye our camp which enabled us to attend their shows of a night which greatly added good pastime for the boys & I spent many pleasant evenings there. We were often disturbed from our slumber of a night by the enemy’s planes which used to visit us dropping bombs uncomfortably close to the camp but thanks to providence the Battalion suffered no casualties from this practice but it had a very demoralizing effect upon the troops especially the later arrivals. Late one afternoon the 22nd Battalion arrived & were put into tents in rear of our camp then when they had settled down fires were lighted inside the tents by the new comers for the night was cold. Just after dusk had set in the familiar buz of the Huns planes could be heard overhead suddenly followed by explosions of bombs very close to our camp. It was not long before help was called for as the Huns had dropped bombs among the 22nd battalion inflicting about fifty casualties the biggest per centage being killed. This incident was attributed to the fires when the men had in their tents for the reflection could easily be seen through the canvas & from this on fires were absolutely forbidden after dark so as to prevent any further disastrous results. It was whilst engaged on the fatigues from this camp that I received my first wound since joining the service. I was leading my platoon home after work one day when the Huns started to shell our track & one of the shells just missed the party by a few feet landing very close by me. I received a small piece of shell in the top lip but after having it attended to at the Field dressing station I was able to rejoin the battalion for it was not serious. During the morning of the 4th of November orders were issued to pack up ready to move which we did about midday being marched to an old mill on the western side of Ypres. On arriving at the mill we received instructions to get our gear into battle order, stack our packs in heaps by companies, & roll all blankets in bundles of then then stack them in heaps for we were not to take them into the line. We remained at the mill until dusk when we started to move forward, through Ypres, then along the Menin road until we reached the duck board track which branched off to the left. After a very long walk about three miles along this duck board track we finally relieved the 11th Battalion in second supports in front of the shattered village of Zonnebeke. The duties in this position was chiefly ammunition carrying this being an extremely heavy task for the ammunition had to be carried from Zonnebeke to the first support line a distance of about two miles this having to be done through the mud.

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It was up about this part of the front that I first saw the Hun’s much noted "Pill Boxes" which were made of reinforced concrete being massive structures of considerable strength. They were of different sizes being mostly used for machine guns, the inside being very comfortable, fitted out with wire bunks for the occupants to sleep in & it would need several direct shell hits to do the inmates any damage. These things were built to take the place of big underground dugs outs on the Somme for the ground here was of a boggy nature which prevented any & consequence all the water in the shell holes had been turned green with the poison orders being issued forbidding all hands against drinking or washing in water in any of the shell holes in this area. We occupied this position for four days & taking into consideration the conditions we were compelled to live under the troops had an exceptionally good time. During the early hours of the night of the 8th of November our company moved forward to close supports near the Passchaendale Road slightly to the right of that town where we releived the 2nd Battalion. It was during this relief that I experienced the biggest bungle whilst on service but on considering the position & the conditions it could not very well have been prevented. When our company moved off from Second supports my platoon was the last platoon in the company & I was detailed to bring up the rear of my platoon thus being the last man in the company during the move. After we had gone some distance we found that the Canadians who were on our left were also releiving & both parties, through having to use the same track for some distance, became mixed up considerably for the night was as black as pitch. Me being last in the company I soon became cut off from my platoon & found myself wandering about following other troops whom I did not know for a while then decided to strike out on my own to try and find the company. I had not gone very far when I discovered our "B Company who were going into relieve the front line so I decided to go with them in preference to wandering about on my own. From this on the experiences were strenuous for the officer in charge of B. Company lost his way then started wandering about in the hopes of locating some one who may be able to direct him. It was during this wandering I experienced one of the worst nights in my life for every few yards we went I fell into unseen shell holes, got tangled up in wire, fell over stumps of trees, for the night was that dark that anyone could not see more than a yard in front. We eventually found the front line Company Headquarters which was situated in a cutting of a railway line where I received my bearing also being told which direction to take to find my company in supports. After wandering about in the dark & mud for about an hour & a half I succeeded in finding the company then rejoined my platoon when I discovered that several of my men were missing evidently been lost during the change over. The company was put into an old dilapidated trench which meant that all hands had to set to, to try & make it habitable also make themselves shelters of some kind for there was not a dug out in the trench. The walls of the trench were all fallen in & it was by no means an easy job to try & make the trench shell proof for the earth was absolutely sodden.

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After working until daylight the trench showed very little improvement for the whole of the area had been churned about by shell fire until the ground had no body in it. That day things remained very quiet for the enemy’s aircraft was very busy hovering over our positions which meant that all hands had to keep as quiet as possible also conceal any movement so as to prevent any observation by the Huns. Towards evening Fritz sent over a few shells to let un know the war was still in & although no casualties were suffered it made things unpleasant while it lasted. During the next morning heavy rain set in which kept up all day & before very long the trench & dug out had all fallen in leaving the boys standing in mud knee deep with very little protection from shells. To make matters worse Fritz became annoyed for he started to shell our position about 10AM then continued it all day with the result that several casualties were caused. The shelling was that accurate that he absolutely blew the trench to pieces, causing the boys to take cover in the neighbouring shell holes & with all these conditions they maintained the highest of spirits. The taking out of the wounded from this position was a very serious problem for it had to be done by day needing four men to each stretcher for the stretchers had to be carried on the shoulders owing to the mud. Many of the stretcher bearers became casualties during their carries owing to shell fire which made the duties more strenuous for the wounded had to be carried about a mile & a half to the dressing station. The same day we were informed that we would be releived that night so all hand set to work to pack up what things they could find belonging to them, then waited patiently for the relief to arrive. As night began to fall the boys became uneasy for every one was anxious to get out of this position for although it had only been forty eight hours it had seemed like several weeks. The relief never arrived until about midnight & the waiting about had proved a terrible strain of suspense for every man was wet through to the skin all being thickly covered with mud through lying about in the shell holes all day also through being hit with big pieces of mud thrown about by the bursting shells. When the incoming troops arrived we found them to be the Lancashire Fusaliers it being a sight for sore eyes, for to know that we were being releived by Imperial troops it meant we had finished with that part of the line for awhile if not altogether. On being releived we set off on the long march to Ypres which proved to be another eventful experience for on the way out our party took the wrong track on two occasions which meant retracing our steps each time each time until the old track was picked up. Eventually we managed to find our way to the main Zonnebeke to Ypres road which made the remainder of the journey fairly easy going for this road was in good repair. On the way out along this road we came across several Australian Comforts Fund Humpies where we were able to get a cup of hot Cocoa, biscuits & cigarettes which was like a gift from Heaven under such circumstances & it greatly helped to cheer the boys up. On arriving at the big mill on the western side of Ypres where the battalion was instructed to assemble, big fires were soon lighted, the troops spending the remainder of the morning until daybreak in drying their clothes & scrapping the worst of the mud off. At daylight I went round my platoon to see if they had all arrived & while doing this inspection I found that most of the boys had neither equipment or rifles for it transpired that most of them had become lost with another platoon on the way out & were led into a lake near Zonnebeke which meant that everything had to be thrown away to enable them to swim for safety. Shortly after daylight a good breakfast was issued which was done justice to by the hungry troops.

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During the morning the battalion set off on the march the pace being exceptionally slow for the men were absolutely fagged out but kept going until we arrived at Halifax camp three miles away. On arriving at the camp the troops were allotted to huts & it was not long dinner was issued after which most of the boys lay down for a sleep not being disturbed until late next morning. The stay lasted two days in this camp, the troops not being troubled with drill & during that time everyone had a good hot bath & a much needed change of underclothing. The next move took place during the 13th but luckily our packs & blankets were carried by the motor transport which made the marching much easier for the boys. That day we went as far as Berthen where the battalion was put into barns for the night. Close to the billets was an Imperial School of Instruction & through the grounds of the school ran a small creek which our boys made use of to wash in, much to the disgust of an Imperial Major who had several of our boys arrested for this washing but however our Colonel soon had our boys released from the Imperial guard room. Next morning the 14th I was detailed with a train party having to march to Godesvaersvelde station where after a short wait we were put aboard a train which took as far as Eblinghem. On leaving the train the party was formed up in four then set off on the march to Le Nieppe a distance of about two miles where we joined the remainder of the battalion who had marched the whole way arriving at the destination before us. We were put into tents at this place & as the weather was then getting cold we spent rather an uncomfortable night. Next morning after breakfast saw the battalion on the move again going as far as Heuringhem but as it was only a short distance the troops were able to enjoy a good rest at the end of the journey. The following day the battalion was marched to Assinghem where the whole of the battalion was billetted in an old paper mill. The mill at this time was out of order, being situated on the left bank of a river which had been locked at the mill for the purpose of driving the machinery by means of big wheels which were still in good order. There were plenty of fish in the river so the troops soon set to work throwing mills bombs into the water & when they exploded would stun any fish within a certain radius causing them to float thus being way to catch. After tea that night several of us went for a walk to a couple of adjoining villages where we had a fairly decent time also being able to procure a good meal before returning. The stay at the mill lasted a couple of days & during that time the troops had nothing to do so enjoyed a good rest. During the morning of the 18th we left Assinghem & after a fairly long march was put into billets in the village of Senlis for the night. The next morning saw the battalion on the move once more when after marching about ten miles my platoon was put into an unoccupied house in the village of Halinghen where we were told the battalion would remain for at least a couple of weeks. Throughout the whole of this march which had lasted about a week the troops had been treated very well, for the packs & blankets had been carried by the motor transport which had made the marching a pleasure compared with all previous marches. Halinghen was a very quiet little village away from the front line & all signs of war being situated about ten miles south of Boulougne so thus it provided a good rest for the boys while the stay there lasted. The following morning the battalion received a pay the first for some time after which I was granted six hours leave to Boulougne which I much appreciated.

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Another corporal in the company was also granted so the both of us decided to spend the day together. Before leaving the company commander told us that we would have to proceed by train to Boulougne explaining where to go to catch a train & also that a motor lorry would leave from the cathedral in the city that night to convey all troops on leave belonging to the first brigade back to their units. We soon made our way to Neurve Chatel about three miles away where we caught a train which took us right into Boulougne. The time spent on leave was very pleasant for there are many places of interest in the city also several picture shows one of which we went to but the few hours we had went far to quick. About ten oclock we made our way to the cathedral where we found the motor lorry without any trouble which was then full of men belonging to the 1st 2nd 3rd & 4th Battalion. The lorry took us as far as the 1st Battalion billets when we found we had to walk the rest of the way none of us knew how far to go or exactly in what direction. However after walk for some considerable time we came to a big barn on the side of the road where my mate & I decided to spent the night until daylight then to get our bearings. I was awake first next morning so roused my mate then proceeded on the journey to try & find the battalion. However we had only gone a couple of hundred yards when we came to a finger post which indicated that Halinghen was about half a mile straight along the road which proved to us that we were on the right track the night before. On arriving at the billet reveille blew so all hands were soon on the move getting ready for breakfast & I also learned that I had not been missed during the night. During the sojourn in this village the battalion settled down to training which consisted of four hours drill during the morning followed by one hours compulsory recreation during the afternoon. The Brigade took up football which resulted in a considerable number of inter company & inter battalion matches being played which added great interest into our soldiering life. The boys all managed to get leave into Boulougne in their turn & altogether everyone had a real good time for the consessions were many with very little drill. When battalion routine orders were published on the 30th of November I discovered & was also informed that I had received a further promotion in my military career for I was made Lance Sergeant which meant carrying three strips on Corporal’s pay. The next morning the 1st of December the battalion was taken to Etaples in motor lorries for a hot bath & change of under clothing which was very much needed. The day was very cold but still the ride there & back was very enjoyable & whilst waiting for the return journey at Etaples all of our sergeants were given a meal & entertained by New Zealand Sergeants in their mess, this action being much appreciated for it showed the true spirit which existed between the two. our good times at Halinghen came to an end on the 14th of December for on that day we packed up then started the march back to the front line going as far as the village of Zoetux the first day. Next morning we were on the move once more & after a very long march the boys were put into billets at Ledinghem for the night. After breakfast next morning the battalion set off on the march which terminated at the old mill previously described at Assinghem which was still used for the billeting of troops. By this time the weather was very cold for winter was well on the way & as the old mill had all brick or concrete floors it made things very uncomfortable for us. Our here this time was exceptionally short for reveille was at 3AM next morning the 17th when after a scanty meal the battalion set off on the march it still being dark as pitch. This morning it was very cold for it had snowed heavily

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during the night followed by a blizzard which was still blowing furiously when the march was commenced. After a very long march with the blizzard blowing straight in our faces we arrived at Wizernes a big railway centre where the battalion was halted being instructed to sit down on the side of the road. It was practically unbearable waiting about for the blizzard was still blowing & as there was no shelter available the boys had to walk about to try & keep warm. After waiting about for some considerable time the troops were marched into the railway yard where we were packed into a train, then patiently waited to get a move on. After spending a few miserable hours in the train owing to being cramped up we finally disentrained at Neurve-Eglise a village to the south of Ypres. The battalion was formed up in the railway yards then set off on the march going about a mile to Ramilles Camp on the outskirts of the village of Kemmel. On arriving at the camp the companies were allotted to huts which were very comfortable, the camp itself being well laid out for between the huts tracks of double duckboards had been made these being about a foot above the ground. The weather was still very cold but luckily the huts were fitted out with stoves which enable us to have fires which was a great comfort. The duties in this camp consisted of about two hours drill each day this nearly always consisted of short route marches. After a couple of days in the camp the freeze of winter set in making the ground as hard as rock & as slippery as glass to walk on & very often we were troubled by very heavy snow storms. The Divisional baths were close by the camp where the troops were able to have a hot shower & also obtained a change of underclothing frequently but it was a very cold process for the showers were only enclosed by hessian with an iron roof. The divisional concert party were showing each night in the village of Kemmel within a couple of hundred yards of the camp. Some very pleasant evenings were spent at these entertainments which cost the troops ½ a franc (5d) for entrance but the shows were well worth the money. It was in this camp that we spent our Xmas of 1917 and considering the circumstances everyone had an exceptionally good time for all the boys seemed well satisfied. Boxing morning I was detailed in charge of a big fatigue party being instructed to go to Wytschaete village to the old church to report to the Engineers. On arriving at Wytschaete after a four mile march I reported to the Engineers when the party was put onto road making using stone from the old church for this purpose. This village had been absolutely levelled by artillery fire the old church being battered about until a stone was not left standing. After working all that day the party returned to camp about dusk when a meal was soon done justice to. The following day I went with an officer & three N.C.Os to have a look around the Front line, Supports & reserve trenches which were to be our new home in a few days time. We also had a look at two big mine craters which our people had blown a few months previous at the beginning of the attack on Messines Ridges. These mine craters were of big dimensions which went to prove the power of the explosives which had been used to blow such a hole. The next few days were spent very quiet in & about the camp with very little to do but the conditions we were living under & the concessions metered out to the troops pleased all for it was so different to the hard times which had been experienced during the past months. During the 30th December I was detailed to act as advance guard for my platoon receiving orders to be ready to move

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off at dusk for the front line. At dusk accompanied by an officer & three other Sergeants we set out for the front line which was a good march & to make things more awkward the freeze was still continuing which made the roads & tracks very slippery. On arriving at the front line our officer reported to the Company Commander of the 6th Battalion whose company was holding the front line & the company who we were to relieve. We were soon given a dug out to put our equipment in then was shown the party of the front line our respective platoon would occupy the next night when the battalion came in. After a spell our party was given a suit of white canvas overalls each for we were to go out on patrol with the 6th Battalion party to have a look over no-mans land. These white canvas suits were used on account of the snow covered ground & the cold which was very severe on this duty. When everyone was ready about nine men altogether we moved out into no mans land, had a look at our barb wire then the lay of the ground out in front. After wandering about in no mans land for about two hours without seeing any of the enemy we returned to our front line cold & stiff through the adventure. When we had removed our canvas overalls a 6th Battalion officer came to our dug out with a rum issue which assisted a little to warm our frozen bodies. Next morning another sergeant & myself decided to make our way back to the village of Wytschaete to find a place for a sleep after such an unpleasant night. We made our way back along the Communication trench which was camouflaged overhead the whole way also being well built. At the end of this communication trench was an Australian Comforts fund dug out where the troops could get a cup of hot cocoa of a night which was very nice during the cold weather. The two of us however soon made our way back to the village where we found an unoccupied pill box & soon had a good fire going to try & thaw ourselves after the previous night experiences. This pill box was on the side of the road along which our battalion would come that night so we were content to remain in the pill box all day during which time we enjoyed a good sleep. A little after dark the battalion started to pass us & when my platoon arrived I took charge of it then guided them into the front line relieving a platoon of the 6th Battalion. The forward positions consisted of an outpost scheme with small connected posts forming the front line with supports just in rear then reserves which were situated a fair distance in rear of the support line positions. No movement whatever was allowed by day except the changing of sentries on post duty which was absolutely necessary for these sentries were to give warning of any enemy movements. The remainder of the men in the front line were compelled to keep in their dug outs under cover so as to prevent any observation by the Huns. During the night everyone was compelled to remain awake on duty in case of an attack & the company had three posts of a night to every one occupied during the day. During the night of the 1st of January 1918 I commenced the new year well for I was detailed in charge of a barb wiring party in no mans land to strengthen our defences. This was a very stiff job for the ground was still frozen which made it very hard to drive stakes in to secure the wire on but however after a few hours hard work we returned to the front line being satisfied with what had been done. The next night the company was relieved then moved back to supports when my platoon was put into a circular strong points which was exceptionally well built being thoroughly camouflage overhead for the position was one of secret. The duties while in this position consisted of fatigue work of a night such as digging posts & barb wiring in & about the support position with nothing to do during the day time.

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We remained in this support line for three days then just after dark on the 5th the company was taken to the front line again taking up exactly the same positions as the last time in. During the night of the 6th I was put in charge of another wiring party in no mans land where after a few minutes work in the bright moonlight Fritz stopped our work with a few bursts of machine gun fire. I made several attempts to carry on with the job but on each occasion the Huns opened out so we were compelled to abandoned the work for that night so as to avoid any unnecessary casualties. The following night our company was relieved by another company our our own battalion when we moved back to reserves being put into a well made trench & I also had half of my platoon in two old german pill boxes just in rear of the trench. From here we had to do front line ration fatigue which meant carrying rations from the end of the communication trench to the front line just after dark of a night & early morning. The rations were brought up to the communications trench by the battalion transport the stew & tea being in big containers & the bread & dry rations in sand bags for the rations were made up by the Company Quartermaster Sergeant at the transport line about four miles to the rear where the food was also cooked. The containers which were used for stew & tea or any other cooked foods were an excellent idea for they would keep their contents hot for about three hours during the coldest of weathers. our stay in the reserves lasted several days but during the 13th January I was detailed with a party to go into the front line again that night. During that same afternoon the front line party were all issued with a pair of long rubber boots or known as gum boots which went up to the hips, to wear whilst in the front line for the ground was expected to thaw at any time which meant that the rain would set in this meaning plenty of mud again. The party moved off at dusk & on arriving at the front line we were taken to the extreme left of our battalion front to a huge pill box called "Wall Farm" where we relieved a party of the 2nd Battalion who were then holding the pill box. This place was practically isolated but considered to be of extreme importance, all hands being warned that in the event of an attack it was to be held at all costs. The pillbox itself was a huge structure with two entrances which comfortably accommodated fifty of our company including three machine gun crews. At dusk men were put outside the pill box in shell holes so as to give warning of any approaching enemy these men being withdrawn at daylight. During the day a sentry was posted at each entrance of the pill box inside so as to give necessary warning by day. I was detailed with a corporal as a permanent night patrol the duty being to keep up constant communication with the 2nd Battalion right flank post about two to three hundred yards away to our left. These patrols were carried out every hour my corporal & I going to the 2nd Battalion one hour & they coming to our position the next thus establishing communication every hour. This proved a very tedious job for the ground was still snow covered with a bright moon shining which made our dark figures visible for some considerable distance. During several patrols we were trouble by the enemy machine guns which kept us ducking from one shell hole to another until the journey either way was completed. On one occasion an enemy patrol about twenty strong tried to surround my mate & I but after about an hours head work we managed to elude them for they were too strong so decided to make ourselves scarce. On arriving back at the pill box I immediately reported the occurance so our fighting patrol consisting of one officer & twelve other ranks went out but after searching no mans land for some time returned to the pill box without having seen a hun.

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our stay in the pill box we were told was to last forty eight hours so during the afternoon of the 15th every one started to pack up for the relief was expected shortly after dusk. As the afternoon wore on the rain started to fall very heavy which of course immediately thawed the ground causing it to become as sodden as before the freeze set in. Several hours elapsed after a day before the relief arrived & when the first of them did arrive I was instructed to take a small party out with order to remain at the Brigade gum boot store to keep a tally of the boots which the boys were to hand in as they passed. It was raining very heavy when I started with my party and on leaving the pill box I found that the track had been washed away which made the job of finding the front line on the right very difficult for the night was extremely dark. However after waiting to get my bearings by means of my prismatic compass I set out finally reaching the front line after ploughing about through mud & shell holes with my party intact. From the front line we proceeded down the communication trench which I found had fallen in, in several places, the mud in these places being nearly hip deep which meant pulling one another through it for it was the only passageway out. I eventually arrived at the gum boot store with the party whom I instructed to leave their boots (rubber) then make their way to the village of Wytschaete to find the remainder of the company. I waited at the boot store until very early in the morning when up till that time only half the men who were in the pill box had arrived so I decided to make my way to try to find the battalion. After wandering about on my own looking for the unit I gave it up until daylight so I turned in for a sleep in a big dug out with a platoon of the 4th battalion. I was aroused about 7 AM that morning by a 4th battalion Sergeant who was surprised to find me in the dug out for I had not reported to any one when I went there early that morning but of course I was informed I was welcome under the circs.

[Image includes a hand drawn sketch showing the Australian and German positions around the village of Wytschaete during January 1918]

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I soon made enquiries about the location of my battalion but it was fully an hour before I found my platoon also being told that half of the men who had been in the pill box with me had not yet arrived. However during the day the missing men arrived in two & three until every man was accounted for & it appeared they the party had got lost on leaving the pill box in no mans land having to wait out in shell holes until daylight to get their bearings. We spent several days at Wytschaete my platoon being quartered in a big dug out which had been constructed underneath the ruins of an old brick house. The duties chiefly consisted of fatigues with the Engineers on trench digging & revetting on the left sector being done during the night time for no movements of any great nature was allowed during daylight. I managed to have a good look round the village which could only be discribed as a big brick dump for the place had been battered to dust by artillery fire. Fritz had built numerous big dug outs in & about the village the largest of these being called the "Cata Combs", which would easily accommodate three hundred men forty foot underground. The battalion left Wytschraete about dusk on the 22nd when our company moved forward to reserves relieving the 1st Battalion at "Rosewood" where the troops were put into pill boxes having fairly comfortable "possies" the position itself being extremely quiet as far as warfare was concerned. Whilst here the company was engaged in making supports & communication trenches also barb wiring under the supervision of the brigade engineers of a night. It was also while here that some members of our battalion discovered a huge "Steel Tree", which was situated among other tree, being used by the Huns when they held that position for observation purposes. It was a great invention for it would deceive anyone even at a very short distance for it was painted similar to the

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other trees in the vicinity. The Major of the battalion had the tree pulled down for it was built of steel sections, then packed in big cases & was supposed to have been sent home to "Aussie" as an exhibit for the War Museum. On the 25th the company Quarter Master Sergeant was granted his leave to Paris & I was instructed to report to Company headquarters to act in his place while he was away. These new duties which were handed over to me were strange for I have never had anything to do in that way previously but however I decided to do my best & see it through. The following night the company moved forward to relieve the front line but I had to stay in supports in a big gully called the Ravine where I had a very comfortable dug out. The battalion cooks were also quartered in the ravine where all the cooking of meals was done for the troops in the front line & supports & the cooking was done by day & night for the front line was some distance away. My duties whilst here were to go to Clarkes dump about two miles to the rear at dusk each day to receive the rations which were brought up to there by the battalion transport. At the dump the rations for the company were put onto trucks belonging to the light railway then push by fatigue parties up to the cook house in the Ravine. From the ravine the rations had to be carried up to the front line by other fatigue parties supplied by the company in supports. The rations consisted of Bread, jam etc, stew & tea of a night then porridge, bacon & tea during the early hours of the morning before daylight for it could not be done during the day & each platoon had its rations made up separately by the company storeman who was stationed at the transport lines. Whilst up in the front line with the ration party of a night I managed to have a good look round also paying my platoon a visit each time up to see how they were getting on. The enemy up about these parts was mostly sheltered in pill boxes the largest of these being called the Elephant also two others being built very close together called the Twins. Our heavy trench mortar batteries put in some good work on these enemy pill boxes for several were blown down while others were so knocked about the enemy had to vacate them. During one day here two of our aeroplanes attacked one hun airman & through some error our two planes collided telescoping into each other causing our airmen to be killed, the two planes falling in no mans land while the Hun Airman escaped uninjured. The battalion occupied this part of the front until the night of the 30th with two companies in the front line & the other two in supports with these companies changing over from the front line to support & vice versa every twenty four hours each evening. During the early night of the 30th the battalion was relieved then march back to Ramilles Camp in Kemmel where all the troops were given a good hot meal before retiring for the night. The stay in this camp was very short for after the midday meal on the 31st of January the battalion was marched along the road about half a mile where we were put into motor lorries. These motors took the battalion to Meteren where our company was put into a big barn which provided very comfortable quarters for every man. The next morning on parade the company was told that it would remain there for some time training for the next turn in the forward area. This news pleased everyone for the village of Meteren was only a quarter of a mile away & was rather a very decent village where the boys could have a real good time during their spare time after parade of a day. The company Quarter Master Sergeant returned from leave on the 7th of March which meant I had to return to take charge of my platoon once more. The training indulged in was of a very mild nature there

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only being two hours parade of a morning while the afternoon was spent in football & sports. The Brigade again took up inter battalion football playing several matches which caused some great excitement the 1st battalion proving themselves the champions. The Divisional "Cinema Show" was established in the old School in Meteren where the troops often spent some very enjoyable evenings. Leave was also granted to Bailuel a much larger town than Meteren about two miles away & the Divisional Concert party were showing in an old hall in Bailuel which the troops patronized to a great deal extent when in there on leave. On several occasion the company was marched to Bailuel for a hot bath & change of underclothing which was very acceptable. our battalion was engaged on fatigue duties on several occasions on making a rifle range for shooting practice on the northern side of Meteren but this duty was very light. our good times at Meteren came to an end on the 27th of February for orders were issued to pack up & then during the morning we set off on the march going to "Murrumbidgee Camp" at La Clytte about ten miles away. The stay at this camp was only temporary for next morning the battalion marched to "Ridgewood Camp" at Verstraat south of Ypres. This camp was very comfortable but our duties were rather strenuous consisting of Engineers fatigues of long duration up about reserves on making defence works it being necessary for the boys to walk about four miles to the job. About midnight on the 1st of march we were aroused from our peaceful slumber being told to stand to in battle order for it was found that the enemy was making an attack or a raid on our Divisional Sector. The noise of artillery fire was terrific but after about an hour it started to ease up & we were instructed to stand down being told that the Huns had been repulsed with losses. next day the 22nd of March I was granted my eight days leave to Paris, so during the morning I set to work to clean myself up for the occasion, also paying the Regimental Quarter Master a visit who gave me an issue of new uniform. After dinner I went to Bailuel Station by a motor lorry & on arriving at the station I chanced to meet a sergeant, a mate of mine out of the Army Service Corps who was also going to Paris. We did not have very long to wait for a train which on arriving was soon filled with troops mostly going to England on furlough. After a few hours monotonous ride in this troop train we arrived at Fontainebleau Station Calais where we disentrained. While waiting in the railway yard the troops on Paris leave were informed that they would resumed the journey from Calaisville Station by the 5.3-AM train next morning & also that it would be necessary for us to go to the rest camp with the other troops for the night. The news of going to a rest camp did not appeal to my mate & I but however we fell into line with the others but after marching into the city we decided to break away & put up at some hotel for the night instead of marching a mile or two to the rest camp only to retrace our steps early next morning. It was very dark by this time it being about 8PM but once away from the other troops we experienced very little difficulty in finding the Hotel Metropole which was right along side the Calaisville station which provided a good start for next morning. We were up bright & early next morning then after breakfast made our way down to the station, purchased our tickets the fare being about seven shillings then caught the train leaving Calais at 5.30 A.M. After travelling all that day in a very comfortable train, passing through many big towns & beautiful country the train finally pulled into the "Gare-de-Norde" station Paris at 5.30 PM.

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On alighting from the train we were met by Imperial Military Police who took us by tram to La Pepiniere Military Barracks to have our passes stamped. After having our passes stamped we were informed to report back at 9 AM the next morning when we would receive our leave pay. This day 3rd March being my "Twenty First Birthday" we set out to celebrate the occasion to the full when finished at the barracks. It was very dark when we set out but made our way straight to the Florida Hotel to book our beds for the night. This being carried out we wandered about the city which was poorly lighted up for all the lamps were shaded a dark blue colour so as to keep the place as concealed as possible owing to the Huns activities in the air. it was with great difficulty that we found our way about until we decided to spend the evening in a picture show then make up for lost time on the morrow. The next few days were spent in as much sight seeing as the hours of daylight would permit for the Masonery and Architectural works were absolutely magnificent & great to look upon. I visited a great number of places of note including the Notre Dame Cathedral which the Huns so savagely shelled at a later date, also the Hotel-de-Invalids the burial place of the Great Napoleon, this same building at that time being used as the French War Museum. our evenings were spent at theatres for there were plenty of them being so different to our own for at each interval during the performances the audience would proceed to the big prommenades where jazz bands were playing which kept the enjoyment at fever heat the whole time. The whole city seemed to me to be a wonderful world of its own for even though the war was on everything moved along merrily without a single idle moment. The Railways & Underground Tube Systems are very extensive works enabling the tourist to get about the city with very little difficulty. The river Siene flows through the heart of the city which is crossed by numerous bridges & along its banks have been made huge lawns & gardens which give the place a very picturesque appearance. All the sights that were seen & places visited are far too numerous to mention for every thing compared favourably with the others & I consider it was the finest time I have had outside of Aussie. On the morning of the 8th I had occasion to visit the Barracks to replenish my funds but on arriving at the pay office I received a sever shock for I was handed a telegram to return to the battalion at one as I was required as a witness on a Court Martial case. After re-reading the telegram several times I came back to earth then started to heap curses upon the heads of the military authorities responsible for recalling me for it meant forfeiting three good days leave but of course having been caught I had nothing else to do but to return to the Unit. it was then about 9 AM & I was instructed to report to the Army provost Martial straight away who would arrange for my return. The A.P.M. told me to catch the 2PM train from the "Gare-de-Norde" station also that he would wire to my battalion that I was returning at once. I had a few hours before departing so wandered about but the more I saw of the city the harder I found it would be to leave such a place for I had had such a good time. 2 PM that day saw me seated in the train which was soon on its way from Paris. That night when we pulled into Boulougne the troops on board we taken to a big Military billet for the night. Early next morning I went with others to the station & there caught a train which took us to Calais.

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At Calais I had to change from a nice comfortable passenger train to an old troop train bound for the forward area. That same afternoon we arrived at Bailuel where I managed to get a ride in a motor lorry which took me to Rigdewood Camp Verstraat where I rejoined the Battalion Details. I made straight for the Battalion Orderly Room where I was informed that the Court Martial case had been held & that I was not required as witness. This was a considerable knock back for having been brought back early only to find I was not wanted was quiet sufficient to make a Saint swear let alone an ordinary soldier. I was also told that my company was in reserves & that I was to report there as soon as possible for duty. However I stayed in the camp that night but next morning made my way to the company which was quartered in big tunnel dug outs at a place called Spait bank which was the southern bank of the Yser Canal. These dug outs were in the opposite bank of the Yser Canal to those we had occupied during the later part of 1916 but at this time the front line was about two miles away against two hundred yards in 1916 for the Messines Ridge advance had taken place in the interval, this part of the line being advanced during the same battle. The company had been sent up here during my absence on leave & were doing fatigue duties in the forward area with the engineers. The stay in this position lasted several days during which time the troops were engaged in revetting and making new trenches near supports by day having to walk about four miles to the job. This support position where we were working was directly in front of the old Hill 60 which had been our front line in 1916 but like the rest of the front line had been advanced. I managed to have a good look around the place which had been our front line in 1916 as the remains of the old German position Hill 60 was no more & could only be discribed as "Hole 60" for our troops had mined the place to such an extent that any of the old surroundings were very hard to make out. The old "No Mans land" at this time was being used as a light railway track for carrying engineers gear, material & rations to the front line area. Fritz used to shell round the old Hill fairly heavy during the day & night causing many casualties to the troops who were always moving about on different duties. Our big tunnel dug outs were subjected to some very heavy shell fire of a night, gas shells being mostly used by the enemy whose firing was very accurate. These gas shells played havoc among our boys for the casualties in our battalion numbered a couple of hundred & although they were only slight the men were put out of action for it was "mustard gas" that was used thus necessitating even the slightest of cases having to be sent to hospital. The entrances to the dug out were fitted with gas proof doors these consisting of blankets treated with chemicals being hung over the doors which absolutely kept the gas out, but in the ceilings big air shoots had been made & when the doors were closed the gas being heavier than air would come down the air shoots in the ceiling thus gassing the men near the bottom of the shoots. We occupied this position until the night of the 22nd of March that night moving up to the front line which was situated in a big wood. The main part of my platoon took over a big Pill box which was barracaded by sand bags on the enemy’s side while the remainder of the platoon took over a small detached post midway between our pill box & the next platoon on the right. This post on the right was only used by night the men being withdrawn to the Pill box by day.

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We were not troubled very much by the enemy who was situated in the Pill Boxes about three hundred yards away. On several occasions he sent over a few large trench mortars & on one particular night when I was going to my right post to see how the men were faring I heard a report then saw the flame of a mortar coming towards me through the air. I stopped & got into a shell hole before it went off. As soon as the earth had finished falling I made my way to where the mortar had exploded there finding it had landed under a big tree making a hole large enough to put a fair size house in also blowing the tree bodily about twenty yards. When I arrived at the Right post which was only twenty yards away from the big "Hole" I found that all the men were covered in mud & slush which had been blown in the air by the mortar when it exploded. Another night I took a small patrol of three men out to explore our barb wire defences also to have a look round no mans land. There was a very bright moon shining which evidently gave my party away for the Huns opened out with his machine guns keeping us ducking about from shell hole to shell hole until we managed to get back to the Pill box without a scratch. During the early part of the night of the 20th of March our battalion was relieved by the Tommies then made our way back to Ridgewood Camp & turned in.
The Hun’s Offensive 1918
Before turning into bunk on the 25th of March we heard about the Enemy’s big offensive down on the Somme which made all of us sure then that we had been taken out of the front line in Flanders to be sent down to assist in the big stunt. The stay in Ridgewood Camp lasted several days each morning bringing fresh rumours about the big push but receiving very little official news about it. After breakfast on the 1st of April orders were issued for the battalion to pack up after which we were marched about half a mile to a Light Railway Depot where the troops we put aboard a minature train which soon had a move on. The ride lasted about half an hour the train taking us to Renninghurlst where we disentrained then the battalion assembled in the Railway Siding where we were told we would remain for a couple of days. Every day whilst we remained here we saw train load after train load of Imperial troops disentraining at the siding from whom we learned that they had just come straight up from the Somme for they were all members of the 5th Army who had born the brunt of the enemy’s first attack. The news that we could gather from these troops show us that we were in for a warm time in the near future, also that some of our other Divisions were already busy & were doing excellent work. The Battalion remained in this position for a couple of days the boys having very little to do so we spent our spare time in Poperinghe where it was very common talk among the women folk that as soon as all the Australians left Flanders the Hun would start a fresh offensive there which afterwards proved to be true. On the 3rd of April the Battalion was lined up then set off on the march to Godesvaersvelde where we were put

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into closed in trucks of a waiting train which was soon on the move, going at an exceptionally great speed for a troop train. Early next morning we disentrained at St Roach the main suburb of Amien when we immediately set off on the march. During this march we passed through Amien it being so different to the Amien we used to know for the place was practically deserted of inhabitants, but here & there French civilians lined the roads cheering & shouting "Viva la Australien", meaning long live Australia. In some places the women were so overjoyed that they rushed our boys shaking hands & kissing them for at that time the "Aussies" were thought a great deal of by them. By this time we were beginning to realize that the Huns offensive had caused a considerable amount of disorder for every step seemed to bring something of a depressing nature with it. We also learned from other troops that our 4th Division had succeeded in checking the Huns advance after some very heavy fighting with great odds against them. After a very long march we were put into billets at Cardonette which was also practically deserted. During the stay of a couple of days here we kept hearing more about the front so everyone started to prepare themselves for the strenuous future & I do not think there was a man amongst us who was not prepared to go through any task that was set before him for all realized that this was the crisis of the war which meant a win or a lose. The next move took place on the 7th April when we marched to Flenchacourt where we stayed for the night. The following morning saw us on the move again this time going to the village of Baizaux where we found this village absolutely deserted for the French people had gone leaving everything behind them except little things that could be carried. it was a terrible cruel sight for although only a deserted village it was the collection of homes of many years hard striving which provided shelter for the women & children of the villages while their husbands & fathers were fighting a just cause for the sake of humanity. It was about 4AM when the troops were put into billets in Baizaux then when the troops were fixed up all officers & N.C.O.s were taken to the eastern side of the village to receive orders. The Colonel informed us that the enemy was only four miles away straight ahead with our 4th Division holding him at Dernacourt a village to the right of Albert. We were standing on the top of a big ridge at the time & the Colonel pointed out the route to the front line, which could almost be seen, in case we should receive orders to reinforce the front line before the time came for us to move forward to relieve it. Before the parade was dismissed we were told to see that every man had his gear properly assembled so as to be able us to move forward at a moment’s notice should we be required too. About 9 P.M. that night when the boys we just comfortable in bed I received orders to fall my platoon in on the road with full gear on; this order seemed strange for I knew that if we were going forward to the front line the packs would not be carried by us. However when the fall in had been completed the battalion started to move back along the same road we had come that afternoon this being away from the front line. I was a very monotonous march the boys being kept going without a spell for we were informed that our Division was under urgent orders but nothing about where we were going. This march proved to be a very long one but the troops were eventually put into billet at Veauxcourt about 2 A.M. next morning. Reveille was very early & as soon as the troops were up orders were received to take our packs to the square near the village church, stacking them in company heaps. it was not very long after breakfast we the battalion started off on the move going back towards Amien being

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followed the whole way be enemy aeroplanes who were flying very high but their observation afterward proved fatal to our Brigade. At the end of this march our battalion was put into a big French Civilian Hospital which had been evacuated by the French when the Hun first began his big offensive. On being dismissed I went for a walk round finding to my surprise that the other three battalions & the brigade engineers were also quartered in the hospital it being a very big building. By this time rumours were beginning to get about that Fritz had broken through in Flanders & that our Division was being sent north again to help in checking his advance. it was not long before a good hot meal was served to the troops which was the first good meal for a couple of days. After dark the troops were wandering about the grounds when they were suddenly surprised by the humming of aircraft followed by the detonation of bombs which told us that the planes overhead belonged to the enemy. This bombing kept up for the greater part of the night, Fritz obtaining several hits in & around the hospital, our brigade suffering a number of casualties & several horses belonging to the transports were also killed & a lot had to be destroyed. During all this excitement the enemy kept shelling the railway yards at St Roche with a long range gun believed to be "Little Bertha" which is now in Sydney. Late in the night this gun proved very disastrous to our 4th Battalion while they were entraining at St Roche for their casualties were very heavy. it was well into the big hours of the night when our battalion set off on the march being the last of the Brigade to move, it being a slow & monotonous march for the time was mostly spent in waiting about in Amien. Eventually we were taken to St Roche railway yards where the troops were hurriedly put aboard a waiting train which soon started to move. After leaving Amien the train started to gather speed until it was travelling like a mail train maintaining the speed until we arrived at the outskirts of Hazebrouck in Flanders about 4P.M. that afternoon. The train was brought to a stand still outside Hazebrouck where we remained for some time & whilst waiting here I witnessed some of the most cruel sights of my life. The Huns were shelling the town of Hazebrouck causing the inhabitants, old men, women & children to run for their lives leaving their homes & all their worldly treasures behind them. Women were pushing their babies in prams with the other small members of the family hanging on to the prams or their mothers clothes all being terror stricken & crying. it was a terrible sight which stirred every man aboard the train to the core all vowing that they would kill every Hun who dared to show himself in the future. Imperial troops were running about absolutely disorganised & from what we could gather from them, the Huns were just pushing on with very little opposition which meant that our duties were to check the advance at all costs. About dusk our train started to move at a snail pace towards the on coming Huns until we arrived at Hodginghem Siding where we disentrained orders being issued to discard our pack & to get our gear into battle order as soon as possible. it was not long before we were swinging along the road on a forced march passing many families who were moving back with all they could carry in carts, prambulators & in many cases their gear was tied on the backs of horses & cattle. These little groups had a pleasant word for our boys wishing us their best of luck but their grief was far to strained to express terms of kindness to our boys. After marching a short distance we were hurriedly put aboard motor lorries which soon started to move forward

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The motor lorries took the battalion to Strazelle where we were hurriedly fallen in then set off on the march passing through the village to an old farm yard where each man was instructed to pick up a pick or a shovel. Whilst passing over two cross roads prior to picking up the tools three (3) enemy shells fell inflicting about a dozen casualties in the company also shaking the remainder of the boys up considerably for it was quite unexpected. When we arrived at the Western outskirts of the village of Veaux Berquin the company was taken into fields on the right & left of the road along which we were marching my platoon being sent to the right. It was not long before the front line position was decided on every one being instructed to dig in as soon as possible for at that time we had no definite idea how far away the Huns were or if any British troops were out ahead of us. Before daylight the troops had succeeded in getting well down for the digging had been easy also learning that Two Imperial Divisions including a Brigade of Guards were out in front of us but they were retiring on our position. During the early part of the next morning the 11th of April the foremost stragglers of the Imperial troops began to fall back on our position but it was not until after mid-day that they retired in big numbers. These troops were all taken in hand by us according to orders being utilised in consolidating our position for we all realized by now that we were to be the stopping block of the big advance & every man was quite ready and willing to do his best & die fighting if necessary. That night after dark the Imperial men were taken back behind the line leaving us to our task for we never knew the moment when the Huns would reach our position & from what we could learn realized that the enemy was in force which meant that a super-human effort would be necessary for our unit was considerably under strength. About midnight our battalion transport arrived with a good hot meal also a large supply of bombs & rifle ammunition which was soon distributed along the platoon front ready for action. The next morning things became busy for it was learned that the Huns were rapidly approaching our position, more ammunition was brought up & orders issued to the effect that the position was to be held at all costs. Our first shots were fired about midday the Huns putting in their first appearance in the village of Veaux Berquin for they came marching along the main street in column of route four abreast. When this was seen to be the main point of the advance I received orders to take one of my Lewis Guns out on to the road to assist another gun there from Company Headquarters. We allowed the Huns to come right along through the village nearly to the last house when our two guns opened out with terrible deadly results for the enemy tried to get into the houses but luckily the inhabitants had locked their front doors before leaving & the Huns could be seen running backwards & forwards trying to escape our fire but there was very few who escaped being killed or wounded. During this time the other parts of the front line were having their share of the fun, the Huns never getting any closer than a hundred yards in the first rush. our Lewis Guns played a great part doing excellent work everywhere, the boys also being able to put their rifles to good use too for they had been previously looked upon as an encumbrance & only something extra to carry. After the first rush of the enemy things quietened down but still he was moving about all day long providing some very good shooting for our troops who enjoyed themselves to the full for it was really the first time during our sojourn in France that the boys were able to hit back. The Enemy had recieved such a sudden set back that he never had the time to find out our exact position for during the afternoon a Hun Limber drawn by a big mule

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with two men in the limber came round the back of village & and pulled up along side a hedge within a hundred yards of the next platoon to mine on the other side of the road. This limber it was afterwards learned contained a large trench mortar which was evidently being brought up to use against us. Things turned out very successful for us for the Huns advance had been checked & the whole brunt of the attack fell to the infantry for our artillery had not yet arrived back from the Somme for it had to come by road. The Huns made no attempt to attack our position during the night but at the same time we kept on the alert for we knew that he would come again as soon as he could reorganise. The next morning about Eleven o’clock the Huns started to come again but after a considerable amount of fighting he was driven back with very heavy losses & this time we had the assistance of our Artillery which had pulled into position during the night & they play havoc among the massed bodies of the enemy just prior to the attack. Only in one place did the enemy secure a foot hold this being due to a Lewis Gun breaking down but he only held the post for about half an hour when he was driven out, most of the Huns in the post being killed. From this out things began to settle down except for our artillery which, kept worrying the Huns, also increasing in strength for every day more guns were brought forward to assist in holding the enemy. Both sides set to work in consolidation for the Huns had had all the fight knocked out of them while we were satisfied to leave things as they were until our defences had been made secure for our troops had had a very rough time during the past week. Early one morning under cover of a heavy fog two officers a Corporal & myself set out to explore some houses in no-mans land about eighty yards away from my platoon post.
[Image includes a hand drawn sketch showing the Australian and German positions around the village of Veaux Berquin. The sketch is titled "Position occupied by A. Coy 3rd Battalion when they checked the advance of the Huns in Flanders on 12.4.1918"]

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On entering one of these houses we disturbed several Huns who jumped from a window in the first storey taking their machine gun with them & being unable to chase them without exposing our selves we decided to return to the front line which was accomplished without having a shot fired at us. During the last couple of days we were in this position the enemy started to being up his artillery for he shelled our front line on several occasions causing a few casualties; he also shelled the Railway line in rear of us also an old Railway Ordanance workshop, obtaining many direct hits. It was during the early part of the night of the 15th that the 2nd Battalion arrived to relieve us, when we moved back to supports just outside the village of Sec Bois. Whilst in this position our duties were nil except to remain there in case we should be required to Reinforce the front line & the Imperial Troops where occupied this sector during the Huns advance were reorganised & brought in on our right which made things much easier for all hands. We had a good time here for the boys were able to move about being about a mile from the front line, also, living very high for the French people had left the village without taking their live stock with them, consequently fowls, pigs, eggs & vegetables were soon taken in hand by the troops for it was of no use leaving them to the mercy of the enemy shells. By this time many cows were lying about the fields which had been killed by the enemy’s shells these having to be buried by the troops where possible. During the night of the 20th the 3rd Brigade moved up to relieve us after which we marched back to Railway Huts at Bourre Siding which were very comfortable quarters. our duties from here consisted of fatigue parties to the forward area on trench digging & barb wiring it not being long before the defence system in Flanders was much stronger than it had ever been before. We also suffered some very heavy shell fire & aeroplane bombings

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while in this camp especially of a night but luckily the camp was not hit, the battalion suffering no casualties. our stay in these huts lasted until the night of the 28th when we moved forward to the front line where we relieved the 9th Battalion after a long march. This position was quite close to the western outskirts of the village Meteren also within a hundred yards of the old Farm House which had been our billet when out of the line training some three months before. The trenches here were in fairly good order & the one which we occupied had only recently been captured from the Huns by the 9th Battalion, there being plenty of Hun equipment & gear lying in & about the trench. This place was now the scene of the second lot of fighting during the Great War for within a few yards to the rear of our trench were the graves of several British Tommys who had been killed by an enemy machine gun, which was fired from the steeple of the church in Meteren during the Huns first rush in 1914. While occupying this position our chief duties consisted of consolidation, Barb wiring, night patrolling in no mans land & worry Fritz as much as possible with Bombs, Rifle Grenade, Rifle and machine guns. On several occasions our artillery fired with deadly accuracy on the enemy’s trenches with the result that the Huns were either blown out of their positions or as soon as our artillery would open out the Huns would leave their trench and run overland to some place of safety. This would expose them to our rifle & machine gun fire & some good shooting was indulged in by the front line troops who caused many casualties at the same time our boys running great risks in the excitement by exposing themselves but luckily the Huns never fired a shot in return. The enemy suffered some heavy casualties & on a couple of occasions was compelled to carry his wounded out during daylight using a huge Red Cross flag for protection to his
[Image includes a hand drawn sketch showing the Australian and German positions around the village of Meteren]

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stretcher bearers which are boys honored by letting him get his wounded out of the line without firing on them. Our stay in this position lasted until 3rd of May and during our stay we had worried the Huns to such an extent that we could do practically any thing without fear of being shot at. During the early night of the 3rd the 4th Battalion arrived and relieved us, our company then moving back to supports where we were put into trenches with orders for very little movement during daylight for the position was situated in an open field. Our nights here were spent on fatigue work mostly consisting of barb wiring just in rear of the front line these duties lasting about two hours on each occasion. We spent six days in this position & considering the circumstances the troops all had a fairly good time for the duties were exceedingly light. It was in the early hours of the night of the 9th we were relieved by the Imperial troops, then after marching a short distance the battion was put into motor lorries which took us to Wallon Cappel where we had to march about a mile to our billet. When we arrived at our billet we found that the company cooks were already there with a good hot meal waiting which was soon done justice to then turned in. Next morning we found to our surprise that the billet we were occupying was within half a mile of the first billet we had occupied in France. While billetted here the boys had an exceptionally good time for our training consisted of two hours drill in the morning with sports in the afternoon. leave was granted to any of the adjoining villages where some very pleasant times were enjoyed for most of the old boys who came to France with the battalion had old acquaintances in this district who were pleased to see them. The weather was also getting warmer which added greatly to the conditions the troops were enjoying so much.

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On the 16th of May the Brigade held sports just out side the village of Circus when all sorts of Running, jumping, & athletic, handicaps & championships were indulged in. It provided a splendid days enjoyment, for all events were keenly contested by some excellent talent, the whole event seeming to draw the four battalions of the Brigade closer together than they had ever been before. Everyone returned to their respective billets that night feeling quite satisfied with themselves, also the whole days experiences. Two days later the 18th the battalion was marched to Bourre where we were put into tents for in most cases, at this time the troops were scattered about in the open, to save casualties, for billetting was unsafe owing to the Huns liking to shelling & bombing houses and barns. When the battalion was preparing for the front line I was detailed to stay out of the line with the Neuclas battalion, for each time the Battalion went into the front line a certain number were left out & it so happened that this time was my turn. I also received orders to the effect that that I was to be ready to proceed to a Musketry School of Instruction when called upon. During the afternoon of the 20th the Neuclas Battalion packed up then marched back to Priddelles, which was not far from Hazebrouck, where we were allotted to very comfortable quarters in an old farm Barn, & that same night the battalion went forward to relieve the front line. During the stay at Priddelles the Neuclas was engaged on barb wiring fatigues in reserves of a day with nothing whatever to do of a night. On the 25th I received orders to pack up ready for the school which was soon done then caught a motor lorry to Divisional Headquarters which was then situated at St. Sylvestre Cappel. On arriving at Headquarters I found that there were N.C.Os from all the Twelve Battalion of the Division there, who were all going to the Musketry school. As soon as everybody was ready the whole party of N.C.Os were put aboard Motor Lorries which were soon rattling along the road until we arrived at the Divisional Pay office in Ebblinghem where each man was given a full pay. When everyone was paid we proceeded on our journey which terminated at the 22D Army Musketry School at Lumbres. On leaving the motors the party was marched up in to the school where I was allotted to a hut with two other Aussies & seventeen Imperial N.C.Os, then on being fixed up with a bunk, several of us started out to explore the village of Lumbres. Lumbres is a fair size town, the people generally being of a very decent character & after spending an enjoyable evening we returned to camp about 10 p.m. then turned in. Next morning on parade the troops were informed that the School would last a fortnight, the training consisting of a trained soldiers course & it would be necessary for all to pass an examination before the end of the term. The work proved very interesting for a great deal of range shooting was carried out, combined with practical theory. The first Sunday at the school a mate & I was granted leave to St. Omer, a city about eight miles away, & the only means we had of getting there was to catch a motor lorry going in that direction on duty. However we were lucky for after walking about half a mile we managed to catch a lorry which took us right into the city. We spent a very pleasant day in the city for it is a big place having many places of interest, but at this time the city was only half occupied for many of the French people had evacuated when the Huns first pushed in Flanders. We set out for the camp about dusk & as our luck was against us we had to walk for there seemed to be no motor traffic going in our direction. After walking about three miles we went & had supper

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at a house on the side of the road. After the meal we set out again on the walk but after walking for about half an hour managed to catch a lorry which soon landed us at the camp. Not very far away from the school was a big Refugees Camp which accommodated a great number of the people who had been forced to evacuate their homes owing to the Huns offensive. These people were living under such conditions for the nights were very cold. During the remaining nights, I visited other villages in the district, some of which I had been in before, having some real good times, also being sorry to see the time at school coming to an end. The day arrived for our examination which proved to be very easy & I managed to get a very good pass, which was satisfying for it meant that I could go back to the unit & show that the school had done me some good. The school broke up on the 8th of June, the Aussie leaving by motor lorries which took us into St. Omer where they pulled up for a couple of hours leave, where we had a good time while our short stay lasted. Everyone returned to the lorries as ordered, then we set off for the Battalion who was then at Bourre making its way towards the front line again. On reporting to the company commander he instructed me to get my gear into battle order ready for the front line also take my pack to the Quartermaster as they were not being taken into the line with us. The following morning the battalion moved forward to a newly dug reserve trench in front of Priddelles, where we were told we would remain for some time. Everyone had to set to work & make themselves dug outs here for there were none in the trench but before very long every man in my platoon was comfortably situated. Our duties whilst here consisted of digging more trenches in supports of a night also destroying wheat crops, which had been sewn before the Huns had pushed, & by this time we about four feet high. It seemed a sin to see acre after acre of great bearing crops cut down, letting it go to waste for it could not be taken away, but it had to be levelled as it would prove a hindrance to our defences should the enemy attack for it concealed observation. more guns were hurriedly pulled up into the forward positions for it was anticipated the Huns was going to make a big attack. The idea kept growing in strength until the night of the 16th when all hands were compelled to "stand to" all night. After dusk that night Troops were rushed up into the Reserve Trenches, special instructions issued until the excitement grew intense but daylight saw us still under the same old conditions with no signs of an attack from Fritz. During the early evening of the 17th our Battalion was sent forward, relieving the 4th Battalion in the front line about a mile South West of the village of Merris. The next couple of days were spent very quietly, but at night, Patrol parties were sent out to keep command of no-mans land for at this time the Hun was extremely nervous, for at the slightest sound or movement of a night he would fire up flares by the dozens also use his machine guns like mad. our front line was situated among tall crops, on the southern slope of a ridge, with Fritz holding the top of the ridge about one hundred yards away. During the night of the 19th I received orders to the affect that No 1 & No 2 Platoons of our Company were to make a daylight attack at 9 A.M. next morning on the Huns Post in front of those platoons. The idea of this attack was to gain the top of the Ridge in front thus blocking a considerable amount of the enemy’s observation for by him holding the ridge it enable him to see about Two Miles behind our front line.

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This meant a lot of bustling about detailing parties to carry ammunition &
bombs to where the stunt was to started from, most of these fatigue parties being found from my platoon No 4 as I was holding the extreme left flank of the company, & also the left of the line to where the stunt was expected to take place. My platoon was to act as reserves to the attacking platoon & to be ready to give assistance if called upon. The position looked a very ugly one, with our company making the fourth attack on the same place for another Battalion had previously made three unsuccessful attempts. The eventful day broke with a beautiful morning & as the zero hour approached the suspense grew to fever heat. However a few minutes to 9 A.M. a succession of detonations were heard in rear of us, then knowing, the Stokes Trench Mortars, which were to be the only barrage, had started to get busy, but from our position we could not see the actual happening or the effect of the mortars barrage. About two minutes after the opening of the barrage we were surprised to see Huns running across my platoon front, but owing to a piece of forethought I had my two Lewis Guns mounted on the Parapet in case of such a happening, which were soon busy firing as rapidly as possible with the affect that the Huns became confused, not knowing which way to run. The crops in no mans land were too thick to see the effect of our machine gun fire but I after wards found, while on patrol, that several Huns had been killed. We also knew by seeing the Huns running that the boys had gained their objective, for the enemy had preferred to run rather that stand & fight. Shortly afterwards a Runner came to me from Company Headquarters with orders for more bombs to be taken forward, also informing us that the objective had been gained, but the enemy’s reserve machine guns were causing several casualties. I took three men loaded with bombs to the captured trench where we found the Huns were then preparing for a counter attack for Huns could be seen moving forward. Consolidating & preparing the new position was being carried out by many busy hands, everything going with a good swing, when all of a sudden some one shouted "Here they come" which meant everyone dropping their tools & picking up their rifles. He did come but not to stay for his attack was only half hearted, but our machine guns, Rifles & Bomb throwing soon broke up the attack causing Fritz to retire. After this I returned to my platoon to partake of a scanty breakfast & was just about to finish this when I received an order from the Company Commander to go forward to take charge of No 1 platoon as all the N.C.Os of the Platoon had by now become casualties. Although I knew I would have to obey orders it was a thing I did not care about, for, from the day I had first gone into Camp in Sydney I had never been out of No 4 platoon and something seemed to tell me that this would change the exceptionally long run of good luck which I had had. However I did not hesitate but went forward to No 1 Platoon where I soon had the members busy at work making their trench fit for fighting for it was only about four feet deep which meant that everyones head was above the top & likely to get a hole drilled in it by a bullet. We were kept very busy during the remainder of the day for Fritz kept counter-attacking, in the hope of regaining the position but each time he came our boys were successfully in driving him off. The company suffered fairly heavy for owing to the shallow trench which was sheltered by the crops, the Huns put their knowledge of this into action, by keeping his machine guns constantly firing through the crops, except during his counter attacks, with the result that most of our casualties were caused through this practice. The last counter attack I witnessed, started about 8.30PM and on this occasion things looked very black for us, for Fritz

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attacked on three sides of us in large numbers. When things were looking as though the Huns were getting the upperhand, the attack from our left suddenly eased, which we afterwards learned was due to the fact of the company commander attacking the Huns overland through the crops unbeknowing to the troops who were occupying the captured trench. This action of our Captain put us in a winning position for the attack was soon taken in hand with the result that the Hun were again driven off this time with a number of casualties. Our Captain also paid dearly for this counter move of his for he was fatally wounded by a machine gun during the move & he died some hours later while at a dressing station back behind the lines. During his command of our (A) Company which had lasted some months he had proved himself a thorough, Soldier & a Gentleman, being well liked by every man who came in contact with him. The men, that the captain had taken with him also suffered very heavily in casualties, there being several killed & many wounded, but still the action succeed in its motives enabling the Company to hold the captured trench. Throughout the latter part of the day our Field Artillery came to our assistance by keeping up a slow barrage of shrapnel about a hundred yards in front of our post, this assisting to inspire the troops with great confidence.
[Image includes a hand drawn sketch showing the Australian and German positions around the village of Merris. The sketch is titled Rough Sketch Merris Front]

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I become a casualty
About 10P.M. on the 20th June the day of our company stunt at Merris things started to quieten down a little, it being practically the first lull since the attack had started at 9 A.M. However there were still signs of another attack, so I received orders to go to the left flank post, which was occupied by my old Platoon (No 4) to tell them to keep a sharpe look out for any signs of another enemy attack. By this time the enemy had brought his artillery into action using the small calibre on & about the front line, but throwing some very heavy shelled behind with the idea of preventing any Reinforcements being brought forward to the front line. I soon set out on my mission to the left post & when I had got about three quarters of the distance, along a shallow trench sheltered by a tall crop of wheat, I was suddenly blown over by a gas shell (Phosgene & Mustard) which practically landed under my feet & before I could get on my feet to adjust my Gas Helmet I received a good issue of the poisonous fumes. However I managed to get to the Left Post where I delivered my message to the Sergeant in Charge, then returned to the new post where I reported to the officer in charge that I had delivered the message, also about being gassed, then set out for the Battalion Aid Post. After walking back as far as reserves I was stopped by an officer for I was then bent up with pains in the chest & stomach & he ordered me to be put on a stretcher for I was not in a condition to complete the walk to the Battalion Aid post. On arriving at the Aid Post I asked the Doctor not to send me to Hospital for I was then feeling much better, so he allowed me to remain in a big barn until the morning. I stayed here until the afternoon of the 22nd when the Doctor came to tell me that owing to my condition through the Gas he was compelled to send me to Hospital, for he was unable to administer any treatment for such cases. I was then labelled with a white ticket with red edges and

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made my way to the advanced Loading station of the Field Ambulance near Strazelle. I was put into a waiting motor ambulance with two other wounded men, out of the battalion, & we were taken to a big Dressing Station at Bourre. After having all particulars recorded about receiving the gas, I was put on another motor ambulance which took me to the 3rd Field Ambulance Dressing Station at Hondgenhem. At this place I was marked "Serious Case" also was given a pair of pyjamas, having to discard my uniform, then put on a stretcher for immediate dispatch to hospital. After a few minutes waiting I was carried aboard another ambulance with three other stretchers cases it then being about midnight. It was not long before we started to move & after a long ride we were taken to No 2 Australian Casualty Clearing Station at Arques arriving there about 1.30 AM on 23rd June 1918. We were put into a big marque where I was examined by a Doctor, who was accompanied by a Sister, after which I was taken to another marque & put into a bed. Next morning I was given a real good breakfast, also finding to my surprise that there were a lot of boys here wounded belonging to my company, all appearing to be happy & contented. The Doctor came round later that morning & after examining me he marked me for Urgent transport to Hospital, which made me feel that I was much worse than I appeared to be. Early the following morning I was carried onto a Motor Ambulance with three others then taken to St. Omer Railway station where I was put into the waiting room with a couple of hundred other wounded stretcher case of both Aussie & Imperial Troops. After waiting some time all of us were carried aboard a hospital Train by members of the Army Medical Corps, then when everything was ready the train started to move. During the train ride the wounded were constantly waited on by Nurses & Orderlies, receiving the very best of attention, with food & Tea being brought round throughout the whole time. On arriving at Boulougne I was taken off the train, put into a motor ambulance then taken to 53 General Hospital at Wimereau where I was given a hot bath then tucked into bed for a sleep. It was an Imperial Hospital & I was treated fairly well but I soon became tired of lying in bed with nothing to do so on the fifth day there I asked the doctor to allow me to get up, which he did telling me that I was not walk about, or stoop but to remain out in the fresh air as much as possible. On several nights here the enemy aeroplanes paid us a visit bombing all round the hospital but thanks to providence the Hospital was missed on every occasion but still some of the bombs fell uncomfortably close causing some very anxious moments. My progress in hospital was very favourable for I was discharged on the 6th of July, that day being taken to No 1 Convalescence Camp at Boulougne in motors where I remained for two days. Whilst here another Aussie Sergeant & I managed to get into the city without leave where we spent several very pleasant hours in having a look round for Boulougne is a very big place & I had been there before so knew my way about. On the morning of the 8th all the Australians were taken to No 10 Convalesence Camp on the other side of Boulougne, where after a lot of unnecessary waiting & fooling about was allotted to tents. This was a very big Imperial Camp, the Commandant having very little time for the Aussies, but that never worried the Diggers much for before dusk most of them had broken camp & were in Boulougne without leave of absence. During the daytime physical drill was engaged in but it was very seldom a Digger was seen on parade for they spent their time in roaming about for the Imperial Officers & N.C.O.s had very little control over them. About 10 PM on the 11th when all were in bed N.C.Os were sent from tent to tent throughout the camp to warn all Australians to ready to leave this camp at 7 AM the next morning, news which caused us to rejoice for we were all fed up with the place.

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Next morning after an early breakfast, the troops fell in at the prescribed hour, then after a roll call our party, about on hundred strong was put into motor lorries which took us to the Railway Yards at Boulougne where we were put into closed in Trucks. The ride lasted about twelve hours and throughout the whole journey we experienced no trouble with the boys, which made things easy for another Sergeant & myself who had been detailed in charge owing to there being no officers with us. The journey terminated at Harfleur, near Le Havre, but from here we had to march about a mile to the 1st Australian Convalesence Depot at Rouelles. On arriving at the Depot the troops were given a good meal, after which we were allotted to tents then turned in for by this time it was about 10 P.M. The following morning at ( A.M. I was sent before a doctor who marked me for treatment also being exempt from all duties, which proved to me that I was still suffering from ill efects from the gas. I remained in this camp for eight weeks during which time I had to go before a doctor each week, on each occasion, being marked for further treatment. I did not mind being kept in this camp for it was a real good home, but at the same time a strict watch was kept for "Malingerers" who might be trying to take advantage of such a place, so as to prevent them being sent up to the front line again. Leave could be obtained into the City of Le Havre three times a week, a privilege which I always took advantage of, for there were plenty of places in the city where a man could enjoy some very pleasant hours. The city itself is of a rather decent type being fairly well laid out, at this time seeming very little affected by the war for Picture & Vaudeville Shows were in full swing. I also spent several afternoons in the surf, swimming for the weather was beautiful & this pastime was very nice for it reminded me of the good old days at home. The camp itself was also well catered for amusements, owing to the hard work & organization of the Y.M.C.A., Australian Red Cross & the depot Concert party of Diggers called the Yellow Dandies. There were two big Halls in the camp & in either of these each night would be held a picture show or a concert, or else a Boxing Contest in the big Gymnasium, these things all assisting to keep camp life from growing monotonous. We also had a Sergeants mess where exceptionally good meals were served, also a billiard room where a very pleasant hour or two could be spent in having a game. At the end of my Eighth week here I was sent before two Doctors for an examination, where I was marked for a Medical Board being transferred to the Base Depot for that purpose the following morning. I had to wait a week in the Base Depot before going before the Medical Board which took place on the 9th of September, when I was marked B 2 which meant a trip to England for further treatment or else, to be sent home. The following week I obtained leave to Le Havre, which proved to be my last time in that city, where I had a real good time, returning to camp quite satisfied to settle down & await the movement order to proceed to England.

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England again
The long looked for order to proceed to England came during the morning of the 16th September 1918 when I was instructed to pack up all my gear then stand bye ready to move. The move took place at 2 P.M. that afternoon when those who were to go to England (about one Hundred all told) were put into motor lorries which took us down onto a wharf in Le Havre. We had to wait some considerable time on the wharf before embarking & to our surprise Seven Hundred (700) German Prisoners of War were put aboard before our troops were even given the hint of going on. These Huns (so we were told) were taken over on the same ships as British Troops as a preventive of being torpedoed by any enemy submarines which may manage to get into the Channel, this being made public news so as to warn the Huns against the likely hood of drowning hundreds of their own men, at the same time this procedure having a possibility of a safe guard for our troops in transport. It was 7 A.M. before we embarked on the S.S. "Mona’s Queen" then as soon as accommodation had been allotted sentries from our boys were detailed to guard the stair & gangways during the trip across the Channel. This was done so as to assist the "Prisoners Escort", so that in the event of the ship being Torpedoed the Huns could be controlled so as to enable our soldiers to leave the ship before the Prisoners of War. About 11 P.M. the ship untied then made its way out into the Channel, but owing to no sleeping accommodation being available the troops had to lie about in their cloths on the deck which was done without a murmur for all knew the trip would only take a few hours to complete. After an all night voyage the ship pulled into Southampton about 8 AM, the troops disembarking a half an hour later when we had to march about a mile to the Railway station. On arriving at the Station it was found that there was no train for three hours, so the troops were given leave for that time, so several of us went to a Tea Room where we had a real good breakfast. We spent the remainder of the time in having a look round the city for it was great to feel the sod of Old England under foot once more also knowing that the hardships of War were done with for awhile. Everyone was back at the station in time to catch the mid-day train and after four hours travel in a very comfortable train our party received orders to alight when we arrived at Weymouth. On going outside this station we found Motor Ambulances waiting to take us to Westham Camp Weymouth, where we were all soon fixed up for the night. The next morning I was sent before a Doctor being classified C11 & the same again on the following day when I was then transferred to No 4 Company. I was finally boarded before two Doctors on the 21st Of September which I was marked B2A which meant six months home service in England, to be reboarded every three months. On the 24th of September I was transferred to No 2 Company where I remained for twenty four hours then being moved into No 1 Company. My stay in this company only lasted two days for then I was transferred to Orderly Room Sergeant of Staff Company in a nice quiet job. This camp was very comfortable for it was only for Invalids awaiting Transport back to Aussie or else regaining strength of being a casualty in Hospital. My duties here were far from being strenuous & the Sergeants Mess would pass inspection so I had very few complaints to make. leave was granted into Weymouth every afternoon between 4 & 11 P.M. of a week day then from 1 to 11 P.M. every Saturday and Sunday. Weymouth is a very nice place right on the sea front having a fine asphalt prommonade right along the sea front boarded by big lawns & gardens.

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There are several Picture & Vaudeville Shows, beside a number of Dance Halls in the city all these assisting the troops to occupy their many spare moments in enjoyment. At this time the Harbour was used as a base of Channel Mine Sweepers & other small naval ships also the starting place for several Channel liners which used to go to France at this time under censor. There were numerous sights of interest, especially on the outskirts of the city & right along the sea front, which was a great treat to be among these surroundings after the battle fields of France. I received my fourteen days Fourlough on the 24th of October leaving Weymouth by the 8 A.M. train for London arriving there about 1 P.M. that afternoon. After booking a room at a Hotel I had dinner then made my way to the Hippodrome Thearte where I saw the "Maid of the Mountains" which proved to be a very good nights enjoyment. The following day I left London for Brighton where I spent three very pleasant days with a friend having a look round the sights previously described in this book. I returned to London on the 28th where I spent the remainder of the day with several mates, whom I chanced to meet, & after having a good look round turned into bed very late being tired out. During the night of the 29th I went to see "Shangai" at Daly Theartre, there seeing "Ivy Shilling & Dorothy Brunton" our two Australian actresses & the whole performance was very good & well worth seeing. On the 30th I went to see "Bing Boys on Broadway" which was also a real good show. On the 1st of November I decided to leave London for Salisbury where I spent four very pleasant days with some friends having a good look round the old familiar surroundings also having a very good time in general. I returned to London on the 5th of November where I met a mate who took me out to Hammersmith to stay with some of his friends for the rest of my furlough. That same night I went to see " You never know you know", which was a most interesting & amusing play. The next night being my last on leave I put in the "Grand Final" by going to see "As you were" a splendid Revue at the Piccadilly Thearte after which I returned to Hammersmith for the night felling sorry for myself. Next day the 7th my leave camp to an end so I left London by the 2 P.M. train for Weymouth, and after a monotonous ride arrived back in camp at 7 P.M. sick, sore, & sorry after a good holiday. It was very hard to settle down to camp routine the next day for things seemed awfully slow but of course it had to be endured. A couple of days later we received rumours about Armistice being signed which did not mature officially until about mid-day on the 11th of November, which caused the boys in camp to go nearly silly for they all knew what it meant especially to their mates who were still carrying on over in France. As soon as the news was officially known the troops broke camp, then flocked in to the city where the celebrations were soon going in full swing to honor such an event. That night the troops from all the camps for miles round swarmed into Weymouth, mixing with the civilians where things were kept moving along merrily until well into the next morning, there being absolutely no sign of dissent or horse play. The following afternoon (12th) all men who could march were taken down into Weymouth where a big Ceremonial Parade was held of all troops both Australian & Imperial and a long address of thanks was given by the Garrison Commander on behalf of the King for the services rendered, by all ranks, during the war, to bring about such a victorious ending of hostilities. On the 13th the troops were given a half holiday to carry on with the celebrations which was done to the full with no trouble being experienced with the boys. After this day all hands settled down once more to camp life the main thoughts of all, now being directed towards "Home & Aussie" now that the fighting was finished with.

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Things were soon bust in getting the men away as soon as ships were available to take them & as each boat roll was issued, the men who were included would rejoice, whilst those who were omitted would endure their hard luck in silence. I waited my chance & as soon as it came I had my name included on a boat roll, then waited patiently until orders arrived to prepare for the homeward journey, also making the best of time in the interval in having final looks round the city, for I understood that I might never see England again. The long looked for orders to pack up & get ready for home came on the 8th of December, which of course did not take very long to complete & that sane afternoon all spare bag had to be stacked ready for an early start next morning. That night knowing it to be my last at Weymouth I went into the city to say good-bye to several friends which I had made during my stay here & had rather a pleasant evening. Those who were going home were up bright & early next morning at 4 A.M. when shortly afterwards the party was fallen in for a roll call of every man followed by an issue of rations to last twenty four hours to each man these two duties taking about two hours to complete.
Homeward bound
At 7 A.M. on the 9th of December 1918 our party left Westham Camp Weymouth starting on the long journey home to Australia. The march to the Railway station was soon completed when the troops were put straight aboard awaiting train & after half an hour wait the train steamed out thus saying good-bye to that city for perhaps the last time in my life. Late that same night the train pulled right down on to the wharf at Keydocks Devenport where we were soon aboard the "Good Ship" S.S. Somali which was to carry us across the trackless seas to the Sunny Land of the South. As every man went aboard he was given a bag of Red Cross Clothing consisting of underclothes, socks, & Pyjamas, then allotted to quarters which were to be retained throughout the voyage. I managed to secure comfortable quarters aft among the other sergeants but at the same time I would quite satisfied to be put anywhere as long as I was on the way home. The ship lay in the Docks all night & after a much disturbed slumber owing to excitement, the troops we up early impatiently waiting for the ship to get under way. Things began to get busy after breakfast for the ship was untied gangways pulled up, then the ship started to make its way out of the dock by means of capstans used for that purpose. Before leaving the docks we passed several Battleships whose bans played all the popular songs finishing up with "Auld Lang Syne", the crew also giving "Three Cheers" which was answered by the boys aboard our ship. It took over an hour for us to get out into the stream where the propellors started to move, the ship gradually finding its way out through Plymouth Harbour. The feeling to be homeward bound also seeing the last of Old England was absolutely indiscribable, but once outside the harbour it was not long before land faded out of sight seeing the last of England about sunset on the 10th December 1918.

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During the next couple of days we experienced some very heavy seas in the Bay of Biscay which caused most of the boys on board to be sea sick. We passed several ships and a small Island during this period, also see Land away on the horizon on the morning of the 12th was however was soon out of sight. At 3 A.M. on the morning of the 15th the ship pulled in alongside Gibraltar but as it was then dark very little could be seen except hundreds of small lights which were burning in the Port Holes of the Rock. The stay here only lasted for about half an hour when the ship started to move again, following down along the Coast of Spain, the mountains of that country being visible from the deck for most of all the day. On going up on deck on the morning of the 16th the North East Coast of Africa could be seen & we followed it along all that day experiencing beautiful weather which I noticed was becoming much warmer on account of nearing the Tropics. Next morning when I went on deck I saw several Islands on the starboard side, which however faded out of sight as the day wore one. The weather still remainder beautiful and other thing which struck the eye was the very blue waters of the Meditterranean Sea, also the sun set which is most beautiful in this sea & the troops used to wait each evening to see it. During the 18th the ship passed very close to a big Island but not near enough to discern any movement on land. The next couple of days passed uneventful, but the voyage did not become monotonous as the troops were well supplied with all kinds of deck games, the sea also remaining quiet which mad things very pleasant. About mid-day on the 21st Port Said could be seen on the horizon straight ahead, but the distance was gradually lessened, the port becoming very discernable as the ship made its way onwards. On arriving at the outskirts of the Mine Field which guarded the Port, our ship slowered down until a Pilot boat came out to guide us through the mine field. By this time all the bots were decked out spick & span in their uniforms with the hope of receiving leave when we arrived in Port for all were anxious to stretch their legs on land. On the way in several masts & funnels could be seen sticking up out of the water belonging to vessels which had evidently been sunk or else had been purposely put under. Our ship finally dropped anchor right opposite the main landing stage, about eighty yards from shore and the troops were then informed that no leave would be granted to go ashore which caused a certain amount of dissatisfaction among the boys for they had all made up their minds to have a good time. It was then about 4.30 P.M. & as soon as the ship was made fast dozens of natives came out in small boats selling curios, fruit, silks etc, and many an enjoyable moment was spent in chaffing the niggers who proved to be very shrewd business men. About three hundreds on our left lay the "Argyleshire", another of our "Carriers" laden with troops for home, which was being coaled by a large number of natives. From the ship could be seen the Monument which has been erected in honor of the famous who engineered the feat of the Suez Canal, also the Customs House, & lines of ships waiting to go through the canal in their turn. After dark the troops procured rope ladders belonging to the ship and hung them over the stern, down which they climbed, self included into native boats which were waiting below to smuggle us ashore. Three other Sergeants & myself spent several hours ashore having a fairly decent time which was very exceptable for it enable us to stretch our legs which were being to get stiff. We had a goof look round the city mostly along the main streets for these were dirty enough without penetrating in the outskirts or the bye-ways & lanes.

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The most noticeable thing here is the peculiar little horse trams that run along the main streets, causing anyone to laugh who sees them for the first time. After wandering about until we were tired our little party decided to return to the boat which we did by means of the rope ladders on the stern of the ship. The ship lay in the same place until 2.30P.M. the next day when we started to move down the Suez Canal at a very slow speed. Prior to entering the Canal we passed more ships waiting to go through, then just inside the canal we passed the Government water supply which presents a beautiful scene. A few miles down the Canal on the Arabian side was a big Armenian Refugees camp which covered some acres of land, and as we passed the people flocked to the waters edge to give our boys a cheer as we passed. A little further down the canal were two masts & a funnel of some sunken ship sticking up out of the water close to the Egyptian bank. The voyage along the canal was most interesting for on the Egyptian side trees & grass grew in abundance while on the Arabian side there was nothing but a trackless dessert with absolutely no sign of vegitation whatever. Another very noticeable thing is the draw of water the ship causes at midship, for as the ship travelled along it would suck the water from the banks, making a difference of about two feet, then as the ship passed the water would resume its original height. We passed several big camps of Imperial Troops on both sides of the canal, also a couple of troop ships going in the opposite direction, these occasions always calling for a considerable amount of cheering from both lots of troops. The ship kept moving through the canal all that night, dropping anchor about 6.20 A.M. next morning about seven miles out from Port Suez. Things remained very quiet all that day with nothing to do except reading or sun baking, the only thing to break the monotony at all, being a couple of aeroplanes that kept flying about giving a fair display of aerial stunts. Next day the 24th of December, Xmas Eve was spent very much the same as the day before except for a few natives who came out to the ship in small boats selling souviners, but these did very little business on account of high prices they were asking. Xmas Day was a little different for about a hundred Light Horsemen & several nurses were brought on board for space had been allowed for them when the ship left England. At 9.30 P.M. on Xmas night the anchor was lifted, the ship resuming its long journey to the delight of the troops. Next morning we had entered the Red Sea, land being visible on both sides so I spent the day in studying the coast line as there was nothing else to do. By this time we were experiencing some very hot weather but it was much nicer to endure than the winters that I had experienced in France for it was more home-like. During the 29th we passed a group of Islands called the Twelve Apostles & late in the afternoon the Island of Perim or Hell’s Gates as it is commonly called with its big lighthouse situated on its summit. On the 31st we passed along the coast of Africa, then late in the afternoon passed Cape Gardafewee the most easternly point of Africa which was soon lost to sight. By this time the sea was fairly heavy causing many of the boys to become sea sick but this only lasted for about twenty four hours. The monotony was broken next day the 1st of January by a Fancy Dress Parade following by an impromptu Ball on board which was a very amusing stunt. The next few days were spent very quiet & uneventful but by this time the boys had formed a concert party which gave performances nearly every night, which was much appreciated by all for

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There was some very good talent among the Diggers. Our slumber was disturbed about 2 A.M. on the 7th of January by the anchor being dropped then the stopping of the Ship’s engines, which caused a number of the boys to go up on deck where it was found the ship was in side Colombo Harbour. Everyone was soon up & dressed in the expectation of being allowed leave on shore but before the day had advanced very far we were informed that no leave was to be granted. The ship was lying well out from the shore with very little chance of the boys breaking ship so all resolved themselves to their fate anxiously waiting to the ship to resume its voyage. Colombo is a very pretty place to look at from the water, the harbour being divided from the sea by a ship breakwater which has double overlapping entrance. There were also two other troopships in the Harbour, the Burma & Nestor both of these being loaded with our boys bound for home. We stayed here for two days during which time the ship took, Coal, water, fruit & general supplies all of the loading being down by black natives who by their actions & talk caused a certain amount of humour. During the stay the boys indulged in swimming in the harbour off the sides of the ship coal barges & many of the boys even swam from our ship to the Nestor & Burma & vice versa. Several swimming races & diving competitions were also indulged I, this causing some very keen competition at the same time supplying something of interest to while the time of waiting away. At mid-day on the 9th the ship left Colombo on the last lap for home which proved to be a very long one before it finished. We crossed the line a little before noon on the 11th but on this occasion nothing exceptional took place as all hands on board had previously crossed the line. Things went along very quietly until the 14th when we passed quite close to the Cocos Islands which however were left far astern by sunset. During the 21st the ship pulled into Fremantle but anchored some considerable distance off the land but that afternoon the Western Australians were taken off the ship in a big tug-boat it being fairly rough at the time. Whilst here we received copies of the daily papers also finding that several deaths had been reports through Influenza also a number of cases aboard our ship. This caused our troops to become indignant for as far as could be found out not one case of Flue had occurred during the whole voyage. It was here that I began to realize, on seeing the West Australian leaving the ship, that I was actually back in Aussie a thing I had often thought impossible on many previous occasions. Fruit & vegetables were sent out in Goverment lauches which was taken about but the ship lay at anchor all that night. At 8.30 next morning the ship weighed anchor then was soon on the move once more, running into a fairly heavy sea which caused the bad sailors to become sea sick again. After leaving Fremantle the troops had to go through a spray in a small room on the deck, as a preventative against the Flue for it seemed to us that the Heads were scared but there were cases on board. Throughout the whole day of the 23rd the ship followed along the coast until about 5 P.M. when we pulled into Albany Harbour & dropped anchor. Albany is a very pretty place, situated between two big hills right at the waters edge but the ship was too far out to be able to form any definite opinion about the city itself. We had not been at anchor very long when water tugs arrived then started to pump water aboard for it was for this reason the ship had called into Albany. Our stay here lasted until 2 P.M. the next day when we moved out of the harbour following along the coast for some distance.

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The voyage across the "Bight" lasted four days during which time the sea remained fairly calm but the boys became more serious each day preparing for the meeting of their "Loved Ones". During the later part of the afternoon of the 28th we arrived at the Semaphore outside the Outer Harbour, Adelaide, dropping anchor some distance off the land, the ship being placed under strict quarantine before dark. Next morning the Commanding Officer informed the troops that we had been placed under quarantine for seven days, and asked the boys to take things in the proper spirit. This information caused a big depressed feeling to envelope the ship for it appeared to every man that they were not wanted home after their experiences on the other side. The South Australians soon became uneasy for it hurt being so close to home & not able to get there so they organised themselves then sent messages ashore demanding to be released for it seemed absurd being kept at sea when no signs of Influenza was on board. The troops belonging to other states caught a shark, about fourteen feet long, off the stern of the ship which was successfully hauled aboard, causing some excitement for a couple of hours. The next day the troops became very troublesome, owing to no signs of getting ashore, threatening to take charge of the ship if something definite was not done in this direction. At dusk, under three leaders, the troops made an attempt to take charge & as soon as they started the Captain started to put to sea, but before going very far was detained by the shore Authorities with a promise of something being done on the morrow. The next morning after breakfast two Tugs arrived with instructions to convey the troops ashore to Torrents Island which is the Quarantine station. After the tugs had done several trips those who wished to go ashore were taken. This satisfied the boys to a great extent for the trip was very nice passing through the Outer Harbour, then along the Torrents River to the Island taking about an hour to do the trip. On the Island the troops had to go through an Inhalation Chamber after which they were at liberty to walk about where they liked, also being looked after by the Red Cross who supplied hot drinks, cake & fruit. The South Australians were allowed to remain on the Island but the other troops were taken there each morning then returning to the ship late in the afternoon. During the afternoon of the 3rd the quarantine was lifted, then the ship weighed anchor then pulled into No 1 Wharf at the Outer Harbour where it tied up then started to discharge cargo. That night the Troops on board were given a big dinner, in one of the big Customs Sheds, by the Red Cross which was a very creditable honor being much appreciated by all the boys. A Concert & Picture Show followed the dinner providing a very pleasant evening for there was plenty of room thus allowing everyman the full opportunity of seeing & hearing everything. Next day the 4th of February we were given leave into Adelaide being conveyed to the city by a special train which left the wharf at 9 A.M. On arriving in the city we were met by motor cars & Trams supplied by the Red Cross to show our boys over the city. Adelaide is an extremely pretty place, well laid out, & provided a real good days outing for the boys were given free meals accompanied by a continuous entertainment in one of the big Halls this also being arranged by the Red Cross. That night a mate & I decided to finish up with a trip to the Majestic theatre, after which we returned to the ship about midnight more than satisfied with the day. At 7 A.M. next morning the ship untied then pulled out into the stream where it was soon on the move for Melbourne. We arrived out side Port Melbourne during the night of the 6th

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where we had to wait until daylight, when a very heavy fog came up thus delaying our entrance for it was well into the morning before we were taken inside then lay off Williamstown under quarantine. That afternoon a medical officer came on board & after examining the troops declared the ship free from Influenza, but we remained at anchor in the same position all that night. At 8 A.M. next day the ship pulled into a wharf where the Victorians & Tasmanians were immediately taken off. As soon as these troops were clear of the ship all the troops who remained on board were given leave (at 11 A.M.) into the city until mid-night the following day. Accompanied by a mate, I made my way by a coach to the City where we had a look round for a while, then went out to St Kilda where we had a swim, then took a look round the side shows there, returning to the City for the night. Next morning there was very little doing in the city, so again made our way to St Kilda where we spent the morning then during the afternoon hired a Taxi & went out to Flemington & District for a look round returning to the ship about mid-night. The ship untied at 6 A.M. next morning then after leaving the harbour & saying farewell to Melbourne, was soon making straight for Sydney. It took four days to complete this last lap of the voyage, the ship following along the coast the whole time pulling inside Sydney Heads during the late afternoon of the 13th February then made straight for Watsons Bay & dropped anchor. The feeling of being so near home was quite indiscribable for I knew that barring accidents it would not be very long before I was among my people & I kept trying to picture home with all the brooding excitement which I knew would be there, all anxiously awaiting the news to be published as to when we would disembark. There was very little sleep for anyone on board that night for excitement reigned supreme which was much assisted by the Ferries for each would give a whistle as it passed mingled with cheers of their passengers who were being transported to the different parts of the Harbour in that direction. The next morning broke with a clear sky and a beautiful sun & directly after breakfast a medical officer came on board then after an examination declare the ship free of infectious diseases which meant we would be allowed to disembark that day. It was not long before our good ship started to move up the Harbour and on arriving off Woollomooloo was taken in hand by two Tugs which towed us into No 1 Wharf Woollomooloo where the ship tied up & the troops started to disembark immediately. As I waited my turn to go off the ship the inward excitement grew until it was practically unbearable, for I was soon to be taken to a place yet unknown to ne, & kept wondering who would be there to meet me. However I was not kept in suspense very long for I was soon speeding along in a motor to the Anzac Buffet where it was not long before I was among all whom I loved & were so dear & near to me, a thing I had often dreamed of while at the War, yet only very faint hopes of it becoming true. Within the next couple of hours I was Home a ne’r to be forgotten day for it was then I realized more than ever in my life before what "Home" in a free country meant. A week later I had to report to Randwick Hospital where I was given a final Medical Examination and I asked to be reccommended for my discharge from the army which I eventually received on the 4th of April 1919 after Three 233 days service with the Australian Imperial Forces.

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Synopsis of movements
Synopsis of places, Camped at, Visited, and time spent in Travel, including only such Places where the time extended into two Dates, or occupied more than Twenty Four Hours

PLACE – WHERE – DATE FROM – DATE TO – REMARKS
Holdsworthy, N.S.W, 28.8.1915 – 15.9.1915 - In Camp 4th Depot Battalion
Liverpool, N.S.W, 15.9.1915 – 29.11.1915 – In Camp 7th Reinforcements 18th Battalion
Casula, N.S.W, 29.11.1915 – 23.12.1915 - In Camp 7th Reinforcements 18th Battalion
At Sea, S.S. Suevic, 23.12.1915 – 21.1.1916 – Enroute to Egypt
Port Suez, S.S. Suevic, 21.1.1916 – 22.1.1916 – Waiting to disembark at Egypt
Heliopolis, Egypt, 22.1.1916 – 14.2.1916 – 5th Brigade Training Battalion
Tel-el-Kebir, Egypt, 14.2.1916 – 29.2.1916 – Transferred to "A" Coy. 3rd Battalion
East Serapeum, Egypt, 29.2.1916 – 21.3.1916 – Reserve defence work, Suez Canal.
In Train, Egypt, 21.3.1916 – 22.3.1916 – Enroute to Alexandria
At Sea, S.S. Grampian, 22.3.1916 – 27.3.1916 – From Egypt to France
Toulon, S.S. Grampian, 27.3.1916 – 28.3.1916 – (France) Waiting in Harbour
Marseilles, France, 28.3.1916 – 29.3.1916 – Disembarking
In Train, France, 29.3.1916 – 31.3.1916 – From Marseilles to Hazebrouck
Wollon Cappel, Flanders, 31.3.1916 – 10.4.1916 – In Billets Training
Moolonacker, Flanders, 10.4.1916 – 20.4.1916 – In Billets Training
Rouge-de-Bois, Flanders, 20.4.1916 – 3.5.1916 – On Fatigue work in Forward Area
Support Line, Flanders, 3.5.1916 – 7.5.1916 – At V.C. Corner
Front Line, Flanders, 7.5.1916 – 19.5.1916 – At V.C. Corner 1st time in Front Line
Criox-de Bac, Flanders, 19.5.1916 – 9.6.1916 – In Billets on Training & Fatigues
Fleur-Baix, Flanders, 9.6.1916 – 23.6.1916 – In Reserves on Fatigue Work
Front Line, Flanders, 23.6.1916 – 4.7.1916 – Fleur-Baix Sector
Sailly, Flanders, 4.7.1916 – 9.7.1916 – In Billets Training
Merris, Flanders, 9.7.1916 – 10.7.1916 – In Billets Resting after March
In Train, France, 10.7.1916 – 11.7.1916 – From Flanders to Somme (France)
St Ouens, France, 11.7.1916 – 12.7.1916 – resting in Billets after March
Vignacourt, France, 12.7.1916 – 13.7.1916 – Resting in Billets after March
Allonville, France, 13.7.1916 – 16.7.1916 – Resting in Tents also Training
Warloy, France, 16.7.1916 – 19.7.1916 – resting in Billets also Training
Reserve Trench, France, 19.7.1916 – 23.7.1916 – prior to the Battle of Pozieres
Front Line, France, 23.7.1916 – 26.7.1916 – Battle of Pozieres
Albert, France, 26.7.1916 – 27.7.1916 – In Billets resting after Pozieres
Vadencourt, France, 27.7.1916 – 28.7.1916 – In Huts resting after March
La Vicogne, France, 28.7.1916 – 29.7.1916 – In an orchard resting after March
Bonneville, France, 29.7.1916 – 30.7.1916 – In Billets resting after March
Pernois, France, 30.7.1916 – 9.8.1916 – In Billets Training & Resting
La Vicogne, France, 9.8.1916 – 10.8.1916 – In an Orchard resting after March
Herrissart, France, 10.8.1916 – 14.8.1916 – In Billets Training & Resting
Vadencourt, France, 14.8.1916 – 15.8.1916 – In Huts resting after March
Support Line, France, 15.8.1916 – 16.8.1916 – In Pozieres Village
Front Line, France, 16.8.1916 – 19.8.1916 – In Front of Moquet Farm
Albert, France, 19.8.21.8.1916 – In Billets resting after Front Line
Warloy, France, 21.8.1916 – 22.8.1916 – In Billets resting after March
Val-de-Maison, France, 22.8.1916 – 24.8.1916 – In Tents 1st Anzac Reinforcement Camp
Gezaincourt, France, 24.8.1916 – 26.8.1916 – In Billets resting after March
Poperinghe, Belgium, 26.8.1916 – 31.8.1916 – In Toronto Camp in Huts Training
Reserve Line, Belgium, 31.8.1916 – 1.9.1916 – In Trenches south of Hill 60
Front Line, Belgium, 1.9.1916 – 5.9.1016 – In Front of Hill 60
Support Line, Belgium, 5.9.1916 – 7.9.1916 – In Paris to Brussels Railway Embankment
Reserve Line, 7.9.1916 – 12.9.1916 – In Tunnel Dugout under Paris to Brussels Railway
Poperinghe, Belgium, 12.9.1916 – 25.9.1916 – Dominion Lines Camp in Training
Reserve Line, Belgium, 25.9.1916 – 7.10.1916 – In Dugouts in bank of Yser Canal
Support Line, Belgium, 7.10.1916 – 13.10.1916 – In Dugouts on top of bank of Yser Canal
Poperinghe, Belgium, 13.10.1916 – 14.10.1916 – Dominion Lines Camp Resting
Godesvaervelde, Belgium, 14.10.1916 – 15.10.1916 – In Billets resting after March
Arneke, Flanders, 15.10.1916 – 16.10.1916 – In Billets resting after March
Estmonte, Flanders, 15.10.1916 – 20.10.1916 – Billetted in big Chateau Training
L’Etoile, France, 20.10.1916 – 23.10.1916 – In Billets & Training
Freicourt, France, 23.10.1916 – 24.10.1916 – In Bag Huts resting on the Somme
Marmetz Wood, Frances, 24.10.1916 – 29.10.1916 – Under Tarpaulins Resting
Trones Wood, France, 29.10.1916 – 31.10.1916 – In 3rd Reserve Trenches
Reserve Line, France, 31.10.1916 – 3.11.1916 – In 2nd Reserve Line in front of Trones Wood
Support Line, France, 3.11.1916 – 6.11.1916 – In Front of Fleurs, Sunken Rd called Cheese Rd

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Reserve Line, France, 6.11.1916 – 7.11.1916 – In Trench in front of Fleurs
2nd Reserve Line, France, 7.11.1916 – 13.11.1916 – In trench to the right of Fleurs
Bevenacourt, France, 13.11.1916 – 14.11.1916 – In Tarpaulin Huts resting
Freicourt, France, 14.11.1916 – 15.11.1916 – In Tents resting after March
Buire, France, 15.11.1916 – 17.11.1916 – In Billets resting after March
Flesselles, France, 17.11.1916 – 25.11.1916 – In Billets resting & Training
Buire, France, 25.11.1916 – 15.12.1916 – In Tents on Fatigue Work
Neaulte, France, 15.12.1916 – 20.12.1916 – In Huts on Fatigue Work
Marmetz, France, 20.12.1916 – 21.12.1916 – In Tents Melbourne Camp resting
Bernafay, France, 21.12.1916 – 22.12.1916 – In Huts Resting after March
Front Line, France, 22.12.1916 – 24.12.1916 – To the left of Geudecourt
Support Line, France, 24.12.1916 – 27.12.1916 – In front of the village of Fleurs
Front Line, France, 27.12.1916 – 28.12.1916 – To the left of Geudecourt
Montauban, France 28.12.1916 – 29.12.1916 – In Huts Resting entroute to a School
Albert, France, 29.12.1916 – 31.12.1916 – In Tents Anzac Reinforcement Camp
Tirancourt, France, 31.12.1916 – 27.1.1917 At 1st Divisional N.C.Os School of Instruction
Albert, France, 27.1.1917 – 28.1.1917 – In Tents Anzac Reinforcement Camp
Marmetz, France, 28.1.1917 – 29.1.1917 – In Tents Resting enroute to Battalion
Highwood, France, 29.1.1917 – 31.1.1917 – In Huts on Fatigue Work
Cough Drop, France, 31.1.1917 – 4.2.1917 – In Dugouts on Fatigue Work
Reserves, France, 4.2.1917 – 5.2.1917 – In Dugouts Awaiting to go into Front Line
Front Line, France, 5.2.1917 – 6.2.1917 – At the Maize to the Right of the Butte-de-Warloncourt
Support Line, France, 6.2.1917 – 7.2.1917 - At the Maize to the Right of the Butte-de-Warloncourt
Front Line, France, 7.2.1917 – 8.2.1917 - At the Maize to the Right of the Butte-de-Warloncourt
Bazentin, France, 8.2.1917 – 27.2.1917 – No 5 Camp in Huts on Fatigue Work
Front Line, France, 27.2.1917 – 1.3.1917 – Thilloy – East of Bapaume
Reserve Lines, France, 1.3.1917 – 7.3.1917 In German Dug Outs at the Maize
Bazentin, France, 7.3.1917 – 8.3.1917 – No 2 Camp in Huts resting
Marmetz, France, 8.3.1917 – 16.3.1917 – In Huts resting & training
Dernacourt, France, 16.3.1917 – 21.2.1917 – In Billets Training
Ribemont, France, 21.2.1917 – 3.4.1917 – In Billets training
Montauban, France, 3.4.1917 – 4.4.1917 In Huts resting after March
Fremicourt, France, 4.4.1917 – 5.4.1917 – In Huts resting after March
Front Line, France, 5.4.1917 – 7.4.1917 – Velu Wood during Enemy Retirement
Support Line, France, 7.4.1917 – 10.4.1917 – After Battle of Hermies
Front Line, France, 10.4.1917 – 16.4.1917 – After Battle of Hermies
Beaumetz, France 16.4.1917 – 22.4.1917 – In dug outs in Reserves
Support Line, France, 22.4.1917 – 24.4.1917 – To the left of Demicourt
Velu, France 24.4.1917 – 25.4.1917 – Under Canvas resting
Beaulincourt, France, 25.4.1917 – 26.4.1917 – In Tents resting after Front Line
Veaux, France, 26.4.1917 – 27.4.1917 – In Reserves relieving 18th Battalion
Beaulincourt, France, 27.4.1917 – 29.4.1917 – In Tents resting & training
Veaux, France, 29.4.1917 – 2.5.1917 – On Reserve defence duties
Riencourt, France, 2.5.1917 – 6.5.1917 – In tents resting
Bancourt, France, 6.5.1917 – 7.5.1917 At Divisional Headquarters
Albert, France, 7.5.1917 – 8.5.1917 – In Anzac Reinforcement Camp
Boulougne, France, 8.5.1917 – 9.5.1917 – Enroute to England
London, England, 9.5.1917 – 10.5.1917 – on Twenty Four Hours Leave
Durrington, England, 10.5.1917 – 15.5.1917 – On Staff 1st N.S.W. Training Battalion
London, England, 15.5.1917 – 16.5.1917 – On Escort Duty
Birkenhead, England, 16.5.1917 – 17.5.1917 – On Escort Duty
Durrington, England, 17.5.1917 – 28.5.1917 – On Staff 1st N.S.W. Training Battalion
Tidworth, England, 28.5.1917 – 17.8.1917 – No 3 Officers Training School
Bournemouth, England, 17.8.1917 – 20.8.1917 – On 3 days leave
Durrington, England, 20.8.1917 – 16.9.1917 – On Staff 1st N.S.W. Training Battalion
Salisbury, England, 16.9.1917 – 17.9.1917 – On Leave prior to Furlough
London, England, 17.9.1917 – 18.9.1917 – On 10 days Furlough
Brighton, England, 18.9.1917 – 25.9.1917 – On 10 days Furlough
London, England, 25.9.1917 – 26.9.1917 – On 10 days Furlough
Durrington, England, 26.9.1917 – 1.10.1917 – On Staff 1st N.S.W. Training Battalion
In Train, England, 1.1.1917 – 2.10.1917 – Enroute for France
In Train, France, 2.10.1917 – 3.10.1917 – Enroute for Australian Base Depot
Le Havre, France, 3.10.1917 – 5.10.1917 – A.I.F. Base Depot
In Train, France, 5.10.1917 – 6.10.1917 – Enroute for Forward Area
Caestre, Belgium, 6.10.1917 – 7.10.1917 – Joined Battalion Details
Ypres, Belgium, 7.10.1917 – 8.10.1917 – In tents on Fatigue Work

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Dickies Bush, Belgium, 8.10.1917 – 9.10.1917 – Rejoined Battn on coming out of Front Line
Poperinghe, Belgium, 9.10.1917 – 16.10.1917 – Connaught Lines Camp, Training
Ypres, Belgium, 16.10.1917 – 4.11.1917 – At Chateau Belge on Fatigue Work
Zonnebeke, Belgium, 4.11.1917 – 8.11.1917 – In Reserve Trenches on Fatigue Work
Support Line, Belgium, 8.11.1917 – 10.11.1917 – To the right of Passchaendale Village
Ypres, Belgium, 10.11.1917 – 11.11.1917 – In an old mill resting after Forward Area
Dickie Bush, Belgium, 11.11.1917 – 13.11.1917 – In Huts Halifax Camp resting after Forward Area
Berthen, Flanders, 13.11.1917 – 14.11.1917 – In Billets resting after March
Le Nieppe, Flanders, 14.11.1917 – 15.11.1917 – In Tents resting after March
Heuringhem, France, 15.11.1917 – 16.11.1917 – In Billets resting after March
Assinghem, France, 16.11.1917 – 18.11.1917 – IN an Old Paper Mill resting after March
Senlis, France, 18.11.1917 – 19.11.1917 – In Billets resting after March
Halinghem, France, 19.11.1917 – 14.12.1917 – In Billets Training
Zoetex, France, 14.12.1917 – 15.12.1917 – In Billets Resting after March
Ledingham, France, 15.12.1917 – 16.12.1917 - In Billets Resting after March
Assingham, France, 16.12.1917 – 17.12.1917 – In an Old Paper Mill resting after March
Kemmell, Belgium, 17.12.1917 – 30.12.1917 – In Ramillies Camp Training & Fatigues
Front Line, Belgium, 30.12.1917 – 2.1.1918 – At Wytschaete Ridge
Support Line, Belgium, 2.1.1918 – 5.1.1918 – At Wytschaete Ridge on Fatigues
Front Line, Belgium, 5.1.1918 – 7.1.1918 - At Wytschaete Ridge
Reserve Line, Belgium, 7.1.1918 – 13.1.1918 - At Wytschaete Ridge on Fatigues
Front Line, Belgium, 13.1.1918 – 15.1.1918 – In big Pill Box called Hall Farm
Wytschaete, Belgium, 15.1.1918 – 22.1.1918 – In Dug outs on Fatigue Work
Reserve Line, Belgium, 22.1.1918 – 26.1.1918 – At Rose Wood north of Wytschaete
Support Line, Belgium, 26.1.1918 – 30.1.1918 – At Rose Wood in the Ravine
Kemmell, Belgium, 30.1.1918 – 31.1.1918 – In Ramillies Camp resting
Meteren, Flanders, 31.1.1918 – 27.2.1918 – In Billets Training
La Nyette, Flanders, 27.2.1918 – 28.2.1918 – In Murrumbidgee Camp resting
Verstraat, Belgium, 28.2.1918 – 2.3.1918 – In Ridgewood Camp on Fatigue
Calais, France, 2.3.1918 – 3.3.1918 – Enroute to leave in Paris
Paris, France, 3.3.1918 – 8.3.1918 – On leave
Boulougne, France, 8.3.1918 – 9.3.1918 – Returning from Paris leave
Verstraat, Belgium, 9.3.1918 – 10.3.1918 – In Ridgewood Camp resting
Spoil Bank, Belgium, 10.3.1918 – 22.3.1918 – In Tunnel Dug outs of Yser Canal
Front Line, Belgium, 22.3.1918 – 25.3.1918 – In Big Pill Box left of Hill 60
Verstraat, Belgium, 25.3.1918 – 1.4.1918 – In Ridgewood Camp resting
Poperinghe, Belgium, 1.4.1918 – 3.4.1918 – In Huts awaiting to entrain
Train, France, 3.4.1918 – 4.4.1918 – From Belgium to the Somme
Cardonette, France, 4.4.1918 – 7.4.1918 – In Billets resting & training
Flenchcourt, France, 7.4.1918 – 8.4.1918 – In Billets resting after March
Vauxcourt, France, 8.4.1918 – 9.4.1918 - In Billets resting after March
Train, France, 9.4.1918 – 10.4.1918 – From the Somme to Flanders
Front Line, Flanders, 10.4.1918 – 15.4.1918 – At Veaux Berquin
Support Line, Flanders, 15.4.1918 – 20.4.1918 – At Sec Bois
Bourre, Flanders, 20.4.1918 – 28.4.1918 – In Railway ordnance Hut on fatigue
Front Line, Flanders, 28.4.1918 – 3.5.1918 – In front of Meteren
Support Line, Flanders, 3.5.1918 – 9.5.1918 – In front of Meteren
Wollen Cappel, Flanders, 9.5.1918 – 18.5.118 – In Billets Training
Bourre, Flanders, 18.5.1918 – 20.5.1918 – In Tents Training
Preddelles, Flanders, 20.5.1918 – 25.5.1918 – In Billets on Fatigue Work
Lumbres, France, 25.5.1918 – 8.6.1918 – At 2nd Army Musketry School
Bourre, Flanders, 8.6.1918 – 9.6.1918 – In Tents resting
Reserve Line, Flanders, 9.6.1918 – 17.6.1918 – At Preddelles on Fatigue
Front Line, Flanders, 17.6.1918 – 20.6.1918 – At Merris (Gassed 20 to 21)
Strazelle, Flanders, 20.6.1918 – 22.6.1918 – At Battalion Aid post (Gassed)
Ambulances, France, 22.6.1918 – 23.6.1918 – Being convey to Dressing Stations
Arques, France, 23.6.191 – 24.6.1918 – No 2 Australian Casualty Clearing Station
Wimereaux, France, 24.6.1918 – 6.7.1918 – No 53 General Hospital
Boulougne, France, 6.7.1918 – 8.7.1918 – No 1 Convalescence Camp
Boulougne, France, 8.7.1918 – 12.7.1918 – No 10 Convalescence Camp
In Train, France, 12.7.1918 – 13.7.1918 – From Boulougne to Le Havre
Rouelles, France, 13.7.1918 – 2.9.1918 – No 1 Australian Convalescence Camp
Le Havre, France, 2.9.1918 – 16.9.1918 – Australian Base Depot
At Sea, English Channel, 16.9.1918 – 17.9.1918 – From France to England
Weymouth, England, 17.9.1918 – 24.10.1918 Westham Camp
London, England, 24.10.1918 – 25.10.1918 – on Fourteen Days Furlough

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Brighton, England, 25.10.1918- 28.10.1918 – on Fourteen Days Furlough
London, England, 28.10.1918 – 1.11.1918 - on Fourteen Days Furlough
Salisbury, England, 1.11.1918 – 5.11.1918 - on Fourteen Days Furlough
Hammersmith, England, 5.11.1918 – 7.11.1918 - on Fourteen Days Furlough
Weymouth, England, 7.11.1918 – 9.12.1918 – Westham Camp on Fourteen Days Furlough
Devenport, England, 9.12.1918 – 10.12.198 – Aboard Ship S.S. Somali
At Sea, S.S. Somali, 10.12.1918 – 21.12.1918, - Bay of Biscay & Medditerranean Sea
Port Said, Egypt, 21.12.1918 – 22.12.1918 – Taking Supplies
Suez Canal, Egypt, 22.12.1918 – 23.12.1918 – Passing through Canal
Port Suez, Egypt, 23.12.1918 – 25.12.1918 – Taking troops & Supplies
At Sea, S.S. Somali, 25.12.1918 – 7.1.1919 – Red Sea & Colombo
Colombo, Ceylon, 7.1.1919 – 9.1.1919 – Taking coal, water & supplies
At Sea, S.S. Somali, 9.1.1919 – 21.1.1919 – Indian Ocean
Fremantle, Aussie S.S. Somali, 21.1.1919 – 22.1.1919 – Discharging Troops
Albany, Aussie S.S. Somali, 23.1.1919 – 24.1.1919 – Taking Water & Supplies
At Sea, S.S. Somali, 24.1.1919 – 28.1.1919 – Australian Bight
Adelaide, Aussie S.S. Somali, 28.1.1919 – 5.2.1919 – Quarantined for Flue
At Sea, S.S. Somali, 5.2.1919 – 6.2.1919 – Bass Strait
Melbourne, Aussie, 6.2.1919 – 10.2.1919 – On leave in City
At Sea, S.S. Somali, 10.2.1919 – 13.2.1919 – Pacific Ocean (Last Lap)
SYDNEY, Arrived at 4 P.M. on 13.2.1919 & disembarked at No 1 Wharf Woolloomoolloo at 9.30 AM on 14.2.1919

During the instructions received on this day we were told that all monoplanes belonged to the 3rd Royal Flying Corps being exclusively used for contact work. The B.E.2. type of Biplane is also used for contact work, they being marked with two black strokes under the wings from front to rear & from these also one hung black streamers. When an observer in a plane wishes to know the position of the front line he will give a succession of As on his Claxton Horn, a very deep sounding horn carried by an aeroplane, or by dropping a lighted flare, a special kind kept for such purposes. Either of these signals will be answered by the Infantry occupying the front line by lighting a special kind for this purpose only, in the trench, & when the observer is satisfied that he has located the position he will answer by a blast on the horn. The following identifications, for marking Headquarters, should be done with a white material laid flat on the ground to enable the observer to pick them up with ease.
Battalion Headquarters should be marked thus C L D (half circle)
Brigade Headquarters should be marked thus P Q [Symbol for a ¾ circle is shown] (3/4 circle)
The general rules & codes used by the front line troops V aeroplanes in contact work are as follows viz:-
A .- is calling the Observers attention to the following messages –
B-… means enemy retiring F..-. means enemy advancing
H…. means our artillery to lengthen range. N-. means ammunition wanted
O--- means Barrage wanted X-..- means being held up by Machine Guns
Y-.—means Bombs wanted Z--. means being held up by Entanglements
These calls would be sent to the Observer in the plane by the Company or Platoon Scouts, by flags or other signalling apparatus & whatever was required the letter representing same would be sent up by a succession of that letter. When the Observer received the information he would answer by a blast on the horn then make straight for Battalion or Brigade Headquarters where he would deliver the message by means of a note, with a weight tied to it, to carry it to the

[Page 126]
ground, at the same time he would warn Headquarters, by means of his Claxon Horn, that he was dropping a message. The position of the front line is registered on the clock system with Battalion Headquarters representing the centre of the clock face with twelve oclock always pointing towards the north. In addition to the position being identified by the clock face, the distance from Battalion Headquarters is obtained by the following scale & given to the observer as follows A.- 50 yards, B-… 100 yards C 200 yards & each succeeding letter of the alphabet is equal to another hundred yards. It can be seen by this system, providing the troops are properly instructed, that the contact work between the aeroplanes & Front Line troops is to a great extent simplified. This system only applies to troops during or following an attack, where telephones and other means of communication between the Front Line & Headquarters are practically impossible during the daylight. I give hereunder a specimen of message sent to the Observer from the ground, who then delivers the message to Battalion or Brigade Headquarters also a rough diagram
Message – Meaning
X (drawn inside circle) -..- = we are being held up by Machine Guns
F (drawn inside circle) ..-. A (drawn inside circle) .- = 550 yards
3 o’clock = Direction from Headquarters
[a hand drawn sketch is included showing in diagram form the example messages above.]
On receipt of a message so described above the Officer in Charge of Headquarters will know at once that the advance is being held up & will either instruct the Artillery, by telephone, to fire on the spot indicated or else wait for a further message to see if the Infantry take the position in face of the enemy’s machine gun. All of the message are sent by means of Morse Code Signalling which is the Dot – Dash System.

[Page 127]
[An index to the diary is included by means of a sheet stuck over another sheet labelled Aeroplane Contact]
Chapter – page
Foreword – 3
In Camp – 4
At Sea – 8
Egypt – 13
Egypt to France – 24
France – 31
Belgium – 75
The Somme & Winter 1916 – 89
England – 126
Back to France – 138
The Huns Offensive of 1918 – 170
I become a Casualty – 188
Back to England – 193
Homeward Bound – 198
Foreword Synopsis of Movements – 209

[Page 128]
[Image shows an inserted sheet labelled Aeroplane Contact Signalling 216]

[Page 129]
[Blank page]

[Page 130]
[Inside Back Cover]

[Page 131]
[Back Cover]

[Transcriber’s notes:
Image 007 - Cape Gardefewee is Cape Guardafui, the most easterly point of Africa
Image 007 – Gulf of Eden is Gulf of Aden, Eden is Aden
Image 008 – Zetium is Zeitoun
Image 013 – General Seuval is General Chauvel
Image 018 – Eblinghem is Ebblinghem
Image 018 – Strazelle is Strazeele
Image 018 – Cannot locate village of "Moolonacker’ supposedly between Strazeele and Sailly
Image 024 – Croix-de-Bac is actually Croix-du-Bac
Image 025 – Fleur-Baix is actually Fleurbaix
Image 027 – Outerstiene is Outtersteene near Bailleul
Image 028 – St Ouens is Saint-Ouen near Vignacourt
Image 037 – St Ouens is Saint-Ouen near Vignacourt
Image 042 – Doulens is Doullens
Image 055 – Healy is actually Heilly
Image 058 – Friecourt is actually Fricourt
Image 059 – Marmetz is actually Mametz
Image 059 – Meualte is actually Meaulte
Image 060 – Geudacourt shown on sketch map is actually Gueudecourt
Image 062 – La Chassie is actually La Chassee
Image 062 – Picquiney is actually Picquigny
Image 072 – Lagnacourt is actually Lagnicourt
Image 073 – Beametz is actually Beaumetz
Image 079 – Perim Downs is Perham Downs
Image 083 – cordroi road is actually corduroy road, made of logs
Image 088 – Godesvaervelde is actually Godeswaervelde
Image 088 – Eblinghem is actually Ebblinghem
Image 089 - Neurve Chatel is Neufchatel-Hardelot
Image 089 – Zoetux is Zoteux
Image 090 – Neurve-Eglise is Neuve-Eglise (or Nieuwkerke) in Belgium about 15 km south of Ypres
Image 090 – Wytschaete is Wijtschate about 8 km south of Ypres
Image 096 – Baileul is Bailleul
Image 096 – La Clytte is most likely Klijte. La Clytte Military Cemetery is located just outside the village of Klijte which is approximately 8 kilometres southwest of Ypres
Image 096 – Verstraat is Vierstraat located approximately 6 kilometres southwest of Ypres
Image 098 – Yser Canal is Ijzerkanaal which flows through Ypres in Belgium
Image 099 – Godesvaersvelde is Godewaersvelde approximately 25km SSW of Ypres
Image 100 – Cardonette is Cardonnette approximately 15km NE of Amiens
Image 100 – Flenchacourt is Frechencourt approximately 25km NE of Amiens
Image 100 – Baizaux is Baizieux approximately 25km ENE of Amiens
Image 100 – Dernacourt is Dernancourt approximately 4km south of Albert
Image 100 – Veauxcourt is probably Beaucourt-sur-l'Hallue approximately 30km NE of Amiens
Image 100 – Hodginghem is Hondeghem approximately 4KM north of Hazebrouck
Image 102 – Strazelle is Strazeele approximately 8km east of Hazebrouck
Image 102 - Veaux Berquin is Vieux-Berquin
Image 104 – Bourre is probably Borre approximately 3km east of Hazebrouck
Image 107 – Priddelles is Pradelles approximately 5km east of Hazebrouck
Image 107 – Neuclas battalion most likely refers to the nucleus of officers and NCOs who remained behind when a Division went into battle
Image 107 - St. Sylvestre Cappel is Saint-Sylvestre-Cappel approximately 8 km north of Hazebrouck
Image 112 – Hondgenhem is Hondeghem approximately 5km north of Hazebrouck
Image 112 – Wimereau is Wimereux approximately 5km north of Boulogne

[Transcribed by Colin Smith for the State Library of New South Wales]