#Capt. J.S. Bell

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Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION

From 1st September to 30th September 1917

Volume 25 With appendicis 1 – 4

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information VILLERS AU BOIS 1   Battalion in billets at VILLERS AU BOIS (Villers Camp). Company parades and inspections. Platoon and specialists training carried out during morning. Afternoon, Recreational training such as football, Baseball etc. 2 o.rs admitted to hospital.[i]

    2 7.45 a.m.

  9.00 a.m.

Communion service.

    Battalion parade for divine service. 6 o.rs to hospital (sick).

    3 11.00 Specialist training of Bombers, Grenadiers, Scouts and Bayonet fighting. [ii]

  Battalion parade, the afternoon being devoted to recreational exercise. The Battalion Football team played a draw game with the 20th Bn Championship series.

    4   Training as yesterday. 10 casuals rejoined from base hospitals.

    5   Battalion Pay parades. Lieut. C.E. Oglesby arrived as reinforcement.

    6   Company parades and inspection of Rifles and Equipment. Lieut. C.E. Oglesby and 86 o.rs attached to R.Es[iii] as a carrying party. 4 o.rs to hospital.   7  

    7.00 p.m.

Training of all Lewis gunners at Ranges. Company parades and training.

  Military Tattoo arranged by 4th Brigade. Massed bands and Pipers being the chief item. Program attached.

    8   Battalion sports day. Football, baseball, running, and Jumping contests, winners to represent Battalion in Divisional sports. 2 o.rs to hospital.

    9   Brigade parade for Divine Service. Conducted by the Army Chaplin. General, Sir. H.S. Horne, K.C.B. 1st Army Commander attended.

  Lieuts. J. Irons and J. McHardy arrived as reinforcements.

    10   Company parades and training in Bayonet fighting, platoon in attack and physical training. Afternoon recreational training.

    11 9.30 am Parades and training as yesterday. 10 o.rs returned from hospital.

    12 9.30 am Brigade sports day. 18th Battalion winning both Football and Baseball finals, entitling them to compete in Divisional finals.

    13   Company parades in fighting order, training in bayonet fighting and Physical exercise. Inspection of Box respirators. Capt. J.S. Bell returned from leave. 10 o.rs attached to Divisional M.G. Coy and carrying party.

  Maps for reference: VIMY and ROUVROY 1/10,000 14 1.00   p.m.

          7.30 p.m.

[1.00 p.m.] Battalion moved from VILLERS CAMP en route to trenches in front of AVION. A halt was made at LA TARGETTE corner where supper was served and Battalion rested preparatory to passing over the top of VIMY ridge which was not possible until after dark.

  [7.30 p.m.] Moving off from the bivouac in the following order, “A”, “B”, “C”, “D”, and HQ, guides were picked up at LA FOLIE PARK about 8.30 p.m. from the 1st C.M.R. regt, whom we were relieving.

  The enemy artillery was extremely quiet and the reliefe was completed without casualty at 11.45 p.m. Disposition being “A” coy in the front line, “B” and “C” coys in close support, and “D” coy in reserve. Battalion H.Q being in gun pits and dugouts in the BOIS DE CHAUDIERE which was a former German big gun position at T.7.d.95.60.

    15   During the day the enemy shelled the rear area but was very quiet on the trenches occupied by us.

  During the night large working parties were putting out wire entanglements in front of our line, every available man of “D” coy was engaged in carrying up wire and stakes. Lt. Spencer and 2 patrols of the Scout section patrolled “No Man’s Land” while this work was being carried out.

    16   Nothing unusual occurred. Working parties under the supervision of the C.Es[iv] constructed Dugouts in DORRIS trench and worked on DARTMOUTH trench.

    17   Preparations were made for taking over a company frontage on our left flank, running through the south part of AVION, and at present occupied by the 78th Canadian Bn. “B” coy was selected for this operation. During the day Capt. Rayward, O.C. “B” Coy, Lt. McHardy and 5 N.C.Os reconnoitered the new area. Night 17/18   The relief of the Company on our left was successfully completed and “D” coy moved into the position vacated by “B” coy.

    18   Nothing unusual to report. During the evening the usual working parties were provided, and repaired BILLIE BURKE[v] (front line) trench, and also dugouts for GLADYS trench, and extending KEANE to BETTY, a distance of 250 yards of trench being dug.

    19   Unusual aerial activity on both sides. During the night a working party of 1 officer and 92 o.rs put out 600 yds of wire in front of TORONTO ROAD from 100 yds right of Betty Trench to a point 600 yds left, thence over and along SOURIS ROAD. Parties of 40 o.rs were repairing dugouts in BETTY TRENCH and building a dressing station in GLADYS TRENCH.

    20   Battalion relieved in front line by the 26th Canadian Bn. This relief was competed by 12 a.m. and 18th Battalion moved into billets at VILLERS CAMP.

    21   Battalion resting and settling down in billets. Lieut. C.D. Smith arrived as reinforcement.

    22   Bath and clothing parades. 2 o.rs to hospital (sick).

    23   “A” “B” and “D” coys proceeded to Training area where taped replica of German frontage had been laid out. 2 o.rs admitted to hospital.

    24   Battalion pay parades all day. 4 o.rs returned from hospital.

    25   Company parade and inspections. Physical training and Bayonet fighting. Lieut. C.E. Oglesby and 3 o.rs admitted to hospital.

    26   Semi-finals of Canadian Corps Baseball and Football championships were played at COUPIGNY. 18th Battalion Baseball team being defeated by the 1st. D.A.C. No parades were held today.

    27   Company parades. Physical training and platoon drill. 2 o.rs admitted to hospital.   28   Training as yesterday. Lieut. E.L. Hankinson arrived as reinforcement. Villers Camp 29   Canadian Corps Sports day. Sports held at VILLERS AU BOIS. Final events for Corps Championships being decided at this meet. Pte. D.S. Laird, 18th Battalion winning the “High jump” and 2nd Division winning Football. 3 o.rs admitted to hospital.

    30 7.45 a.m.

10.00 a.m.

Voluntary Communion service.

  Battalion paraded for Divine Service after which the men were dismissed for the day.

  2 o.rs returned from hospital.

Honours and Award – Officers     Notification of, received during the month.

  D.S.O.

Lt.-Col. L.E. JONES.

M.C.

(Capt. J.S. BELL.

(Lieut. W.H. FENTON.

(  “        H.B. JOHNSON.

  D.C.M – 1[vi]

Bar to D.C.M. – 1

Military Medals – 27

  [i] This entry is at odds with that of the 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade War Diary. It states: “Musketry on Range, MAISNIL BOUCHE by 18th Battalion all day.”

[ii] This sentence is interesting as it delineates two difference roles. I suspect a bomber is a soldier assigned to use rifle-grenades and a grenadier is a specialist who used hand-grenades.

[iii] Royal Engineers.

[iv] Canadian Army Engineers.

[v] Note that this trench name references a popular female silent film star.

[vi] These medals were for enlisted men. It is too bad the war diary did not include their names and regimental numbers.

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: September 1917 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION - 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION From 1st September to 30th September 1917…

[k2kid]

CONFIDENTIAL WAR DIARY -OF-

18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION

From 1st June to 31th June 1917 Volume 22

With appendicies 1-3

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information   1   Map reference WILLERVAL 1/20,000

  Battalion in Brigade Support with H.Qrs at T.27.d.3.5.

  During the night Battalion was relieved by 15th Canadian Battalion and the whole of the 4th Brigade moved back to RIDGE Line with H.Qrs at ZIVY CAVE.

  2 12 noon. Battalion relieved by the 7th Canadian Battalion and moved back into Reserve camp near NEUVILLE-ST-VAST. Lieut. H.N. Bawden admitted to hospital (sick).   3 10. a.m. 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade relieved the 1st Canadian Infantry Brigade. 18th Battalion marched back to billets in BARLIN[i]. 6 o.rs rejoined from hospital. 2 instructors from Canadian Corps Gymnastic Staff attached to Battalion for instructional purposes. BARLIN 4   Battalion resting and settling down in billets. “ 5   Battalion Pay and Bath parades. 9 o.rs returned from hospital. “ 6   Clothing parades and completion of Bath parades. Lieut. C.H. Biscoe and 42 o.rs arrived as reinforcements, many of them old men rejoining.[ii] “ 7   Inspection of Companies by Company Commanders. Syllabus of training to be carried out (attached). 7 o.rs arrived as reinforcements. “ 8[iii] Morning

    Afternoon

Company parades and training. Specialists training under qualified instructors.

  Recreational training and sports. 2 o.rs admitted to hospital.

“ 9 Morning

  Afternoon

Physical training under special instructors.

  Recreational training.

“ 10 9. a.m. Church parade. Remainder to day spent in recreation. 3 o.rs admitted to hospital. “ 11 Morning Training according to syllabus. Afternoon, recreational training. Lieut. L.A. Bissell and 18 o.rs arrived as reinforcements. “ 12 Morning “C” Company on specialist training under specialists Officers. “A. B. & D” coys training according to syllabus. Lieut. H.N. Bawden and 15 o.rs returned from hospital.

  A Horse show was held by Brigade at which we gained 1 second and 2 third prizes.

“ 13 Morning “B” Company at ranges on Musketry instruction. Special training by R.S.M. Price[iv] of N.C.Os. 52 o.rs arrived as reinforcements. 3 o.rs returned from hospital. “ 14   Battalion training to according to syllabus. 3 o.rs accidentally wounded. “ 15[v]   Battalion sports held at RUITZ. Races, Tug of War, Football and Wrestling during the day and a concert in the evening by the Battalion Band. “ 16 Morning Training according to syllabus. 48 o.rs arrived as reinforcements. 5 o.rs returned from hospital. “ 17 9.a.m. Church parade. “C” Company on Musketry at ranges. Afternoon being spent in recreational exercise. Battalion Football team played and beat the 4th M.G. coy in competion [sic] for the Divisional Championship. “ 18 9.15.a.m. Battalion parade to Brigade sports. Battalion Football team making a draw with 20th Battalion for Brigade Championship. Prizes were presented at the close by Brig-General R. Rennie, C.M.G., V.O., D.S.O. “ 19 Morning “A” and “D” companies on special training under Physical instructors. “B” and “C” on usual syllabus training. “ 20 “ Syllabus training. 11.15.a.m. Battalion parade.   21 �� “D” Company on Musketry at Ranges. “C” Company on Specialist training, remainder of Battalion carrying on with usual syllabus of training. 5 o.rs admitted to hospital.   22   Training according to syllabus. Lt.-Col. L.E. Jones proceeded on leave. Major J.A. McIntosh assumed command of the Battalion.   23   Company bath parades in morning. Voluntary parade to Divisional sports in the afternoon, Lieut. W.S. Caldwell[vi], J.G. Doherty, J.D. Parsons arrived as reinforcements.   24 9.a.m. Church parade. 3 o.rs returned from hospital. Lieut. J. M. Fisher returned from leave.   25   Parade of all casuals for Musketry training at ranges. Company training as per syllabus. 1 o.r. admitted to hospital (injured).   26   Company inspections. Platoon training in attack. Physical training and Bayonet fighting. Major W.J. Gander and 4 o.rs admitted to hospital (sick).   27   Commanding Officer’s inspection of Companies and Units. 3 o.rs returned from hospital. Capt. J.S. Bell rejoined the Battalion from Divisional school.   28 11.a.m. Battalion inspected by G.O.C. 2nd Canadian Division. Battalion paraded in full marching order at 10 a.m. and was highly complimented on their smart appearance.   29   Platoon training in attack and Bayonet fighting. Lieuts. H.L. Mitchell and H.B. Johnson arrived as reinforcements.   30   Company inspections. Close order and Arm drill. Battalion parade at 11.00 a.m. 2 o.rs admitted to hospital.

  53730 L/Sgt. Sifton E.W. (Killed in Action 9.4.17) Awarded VICTORIA CROSS. “For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty.  During the attack in enemy trenches Sjt. Sifton’s company was held up by machine gun fire which inflicted many casualties. Having located the gun he charged it single-handed, killing all the crew.  A small enemy party advanced down the trench, but he succeeded in keeping these off till our men had gained the position.  He was killed just as he returned with the second man.In carrying out this gallant act he was killed, but his conspicuous valour undoubtedly saved many lives and contributed largely to the success of the operation.”

Appendix 1

18TH (WESTERON ONTARIO) CANADIAN BATTALION. SYLLABUS OF TRAINING. MUSKETRY COURSE

Instruction on Aiming and Trigger Pressing                 2 hours.

Instruction in indication and recognition of Targets 2 hours

On the Range 8 hours.

(Practice in 1 and 2 to be carried on my units not actually firing.)

Lieutenant Actg/Adjt. 18th (Western Ontario) Canadian Battalion

5.6.17.

18TH (WESTERON ONTARIO) CANADIAN BATTALION. SYLLABUS OF TRAINING – 3 WEEKS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Tuesday 5.6.17

1ST WEEK

Organization – Drill and Discipline 4 days

Musketry – 1 day

Brigade Route March 1 day

Each Day – Mornings

Gas helmet drill, saluting etc. 1 hour

Physical Training and Bayonet Fighting 1 hour

Squad and Platoon Drill 1 hour

Arm drill ½ hour

At disposal of Platoon Commanders ½ hour

Afternoons

Training of Specialists –                                          2 hours per day.

  2ND WEEK

Platoon Training 4 days.

Musketry – 1 day

Brigade Route March 1 day

For the week – Mornings

Close order drill                 2 hours

Physical Training and Games 2 hours

Extended order Drill 4 hour

The value of the different weapons and their independence.                                                                 1 hour

Formation of Platoon for Attack 1 hour

The Platoon in the Attack – open warfare                                                                 4 hours

The Platoon in Trench Attack 2 Hours

Afternoons

Training of Specialists –                                          2 hours per day.

  3RD WEEK

Company Training 4 days.

Musketry – 1 day

Brigade Route March 1 day

For the week – Mornings

Close order drill                 2 hours

Physical Training and Games 2 hours

The Attack by stages as a Drill 6 hours

1st Stage – Artillery Formation.

2nd Stage – Extension into lines.

3rd Stage – Building up a Firing Line.

4th Stage – The Assualt.

5th Stage Consolidation and Protection.

Tactical exercise on new ground involving the above                                                                 3 hours

The Trench Attack 3 hours

Afternoons

Training of Specialists –                                          2 hours per day.

  Appendix 2

18TH (WESTERON ONTARIO) CANADIAN BATTALION.

The Battalion Sports will be held on Friday June 15th at the Y.M.C.A. Grounds RUITZ, at 3.00 p.m.

The following events will be staged:

100 yards race 220 yards race 440 yards race (obstacle) 1 Mile Race. Boat Race. 100 Yards Band Race. 3 Legged Race. Sack Race. Long Jump (Standing) High Jump Horse-back Wrestling. Mule Race. Tug-of-War (8 men per team) Blind-fold Respirator Race.

Entries for the 100 yards, 220 yards and Long Jump are limited to 4 per Company.

Entries for various events to be handed in to Battalion Orderly Room by 12.00 noon June 14th.

Battalion Football Championship will be decided, followed by a Concert.

Officers are earnestly request to make inquiries among their Companies for singers and entertainers for this Concert.

Special Feature

Tug-of-War between “Q.M. Details” (Captained by Bandmaster G.W. Thomas[vii]) and “Transport Section” (Captained by Sgt. H. Green) will be decided as the result of challenge by the letter.

    PROGRAMME OF 4TH CANADIAN INFANTRY BRIGADE SPORTS CHATEAU GROUNDS COUPIGNY

TIME EVENT REMARKS 1 10.00 a.m. OUTDOOR BASEBALL FINAL 2 11:30 a.m. FOOTBALL FINAL 3 11:30 a.m. OFFICERS INDOOR BASEBALL FINAL AFTERNOON 4 02:00:00 100 YARD DASH (OFFICERS) 5 02:15:00 100 YARD DASH (OTHER RANKS) 6 02:30:00 220 YARD DASH (OTHER RANKS) 7 02:40:00 1 MILE RELAY (OTHER RANKS) 8 02:50:00 OFFICERS RELAY RACE (440 YARDS) 9 03:00:00 HIGH JUMP – FINALS (OPEN) 10 03:00:00 RUNNING ROAD JUMP (OPEN) 11 03:15:00 TUG OF WAR 12 03:30:00 OBSTACLE RACE (OPEN) 13 03:30:00 SACK RACE 14 03:30:00 THREE LEGGED RACE 15 03:45:00 BAND RACE 16 04:00:00 BOAT RACE 17 04:00:00 BLINDFOLD RACE 18 04:15:00 MULE RACE 19 04:30:00 HORSEBACK WRESTLING 20 04:45:00 BOXING – WEIGHT 12O Pounds BOXING – WEIGHT 135 Pounds BOXING – WEIGHT 145 Pounds BOXING – WEIGHT 160 Pounds and over 05:45:00 OFFICERS MOUNTS JUMPING 06:00:00 PRESENTATION of PRIZES by BRIG-GENERAL R. RENNIE C.M.G., M.V.O., D.S.O.

      OFFICIALS   HON. MARSHALL OF THE FIELD   BRIG-GENERAL R. RENNIE C.M.G., M.V.O., D.S.O. HON. JUDGES   Lieut.-Col. L.H. MILLEN HON JUDGES   Lieut.-Col. H.V. RORKE D.S.O. HON JUDGES   Lieut.-Col. L.E. JONES HON JUDGES   Lieut.-Col. T.F. ELMITT JUDGES   Major D.E. MACINTYRE, D.S.O., M.C. JUDGES   Major H.E. HATCH JUDGES   Major G.H. MUSGROVE JUDGES   Major W. FORBES-MITCHELL, D.S.O. CLERK OF COURSE   Major H.D. FEARMAN, D.S.O. STARTER   Captain H.C. PATTERSON, Y.M.C.A. ASST. STARTER   Captain MOORE, Y.M.C.A.[viii] TIMER (TRACK EVENTS) Captain R.N. JAGO SCORERS (FIELD EVENTS) Captain E.V. BENJAMIN, M.C.     Lieut. A.P. CHRISTMAS SCORER (BOXING) Major C.E. SINCLAIR, M.C. ANNOUNCERS   R.S.M. T.F. JORDAN, M.C., 21st Bn.     R.S.M. J. COLLETT, 20th Bn.

    [i] Barlin is a commune west of Lens approximately 15 kilometers.

[ii] The reference to “old men rejoining” is unclear but is probably alluding to men of the original draft of the Battalion who joined between October 1914 and March 1915 are returning to the Battalion after being wounded or ill and upon completion of their rest and refitting in England and in France.

[iii] On June 8, 1917 a SPECIAL ORDER was forwarded to all units. This order was a letter to the members of the Canadian Corps by Lieutenant-General Julian Byng saying “Goodbye” to the Corps.

[iv] The identity of this soldier has not been confirmed. Possibly Price, George:  Service no. 928158.

[v] See Appendix 2.

[vi] Lt. Caldwell was one of the 18th Battalion “originals” and rose from the ranks. See his digitized service record for more information.

[vii] Soldier not identified at this time.

[viii] Soldier unknown at time of post.

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: June 1917 CONFIDENTIAL WAR DIARY -OF- 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION From 1st June to 31th June 1917…

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Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION

From 1st January 1919 to 31st January 1919

Volume 41 With appendices 1 – 30

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information ALLNER 6-G.90.90 Germany 8-L 1   “New Year’s Day”—- A Most Prosperous New Year to Everyone. The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 1. The men of the Battalion have been especially directed against fraternising with the German population. 7 O.R’s on leave. 1 O.R. attached to Prisoners of War Camp, Wahm. 1 O.R. admitted to Hospital and 1 O.R. returned from Hospital.   2   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 2. Educational Classes are continuing as usual and the men are taking a very fair interest in all the classes. 2 O.R’s on leave. Lieut. C. Cook, returned from Hospital this date together with 6 O.R.   3   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 3. Educational work is being continued as usual. Owing to the food shortage, for the civilian population in the Occupied Territory and in Germany as a whole, the member of the Army of Occupation are forbidden to purchase any food stuffs whatsoever, with the exception of vegetables and fruit. 4 O.R’s on leave and 1 O.R. returned from leave.   4   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 4. The Educational work continues and is showing a very fine progress.   5   The Battalion attended Church Service to-day and enjoyed one of the Padre’s excellent sermons. 6 O.R’s on leave from U.K. and 2 O.R’s on leave to Paris. 1 O.R. returned from leave from U.K. Captain W.J. Baxter awarded the Military Cross. 2 O.R. returned from Hospital. Syllabus of training etc., for the day attached, appendix No. 5.   6   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 6. Educational work continued as usual. 3 O.R’s on leave to U.K. 1 O.R. attached to 2nd Canadian Divisional Guard.   7   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 7. Educational work continued as usual. At 18:00 Hours an Historical Lecture was given, in the Y.M.C.A. Cinema. The Battalion was in attendance and the hall was filled to capacity by 17:45 Hours. 12 O.R’s n leave. 1 O.R. to Hospital.   8   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 8. Educational work was carried on as usual. 5 O.R’s on leave. Lieut. S.G. Stokes returned from leave together with 3 O.R’s. Lieut.’s W.K. Rooney and J.H. Barkley proceeded to the Base this date.   9   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 9. Educational work was carried on as usual. Cap’t. D.R. Oliver on leave together with 6 O.R’s to U.K. and 2 O.R’s to Paris. [1] O.R. returned from 2nd Canadian Divisional Guard. 1 O.R. admitted to Hospital. 1 O.R. from No. 5 Military Prison.   10   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 9. Educational work was carried on as usual. 5 O.R’s on leave to U.K. and 2 O.R’s to Paris. 2 O.R’s returned from leave.   11   The Battalion was to-day inspected by Brigadier-General E. McQuaig, G.O.C. 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade. The inspection was held at 9.30 hours on the battalion parade ground. “B” Company was inspected on its own parade ground around 11:00 hours. Platoons on Outpost Duty were inspected at their various locations. Police, Cooks, Cook-Kitchens, Transport etc. were inspected in their own locations. 7 O.R’s on leave and 2 O.R. returned from leave. 3 O.R’s on Escort Duty to Coblenz and 3 O.R’s on escort duty to Cologne. 1 O.R. to Hospital and 2 O.R’s returned from Hospital. Syllabi to today attached, appendix no. 11.

On the evening of the 10th. Of January, 1919, a Supper and Dance was given by the Officers of the Battalion, in the “Schloss” Allner. Over 100 guests were invited including the Divisional Commander, Maj.-General H.E. Burstall and Officers of the different Brigades in the Division. The Nursing-Sisters from the C.C.S. in Bonn were also invited and were present to the number of about twenty. The early part of the evening was devoted to dancing and then Supper was served, after which the Nursing-Sisters and Officers Guests departed for their different stations in the area.

  12   The Battalion attended Church Service to-day and as usual the Padre was in excellent voice. The Battalion enjoyed an excellent sermon. The Syllabus for the day is attached, appendix No. 12.   13   The Battalion continued training as per syllabi attached, appendix No. 13. Educational Classes carrying on as usual. During the Evening a Supper and entertainment was given by the N.C.O’s of the Battalion, Sergeants, Senior N.C.O’s and Warrant Officers being in attendance. Several guests, warrant Officers and Senior N.C.O’s from the other Battalions of the Brigade being present, also. Lt.-Colonel L.E. Jones and Lieut. C. Cook also were present. Lt.-Colonel Jones spoke during the evening, complimenting the N.C.O’s upon their fine efforts in the past, expressing his sincere appreciation of the splendid co-operation with the Officers of the Battalion. Entertainment for the evening was provided by talent from the Battalion. Lt. J.T. Taylor of “C” Co’y delighted the gathering with several songs of great popularity,, giving the necessary colour and expression to the songs, as only Lieut. Taylor can do. His efforts were vociferously appreciated. Bandmaster Thomas’ efforts on the piano were also greatly appreciated. Other varieties of entertainment were Clog-Dancing, Fancy Dancing etc. Altogether the evening was one of enjoyment.   14   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 14. Educational Classes are continuing as usual.   15   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 15. At 18:00 Hours in the evening the 2nd Canadian Divisional Concert Party arrived at the Y.M.C.A. Cinema. The hall was filled to capacity shortly after the opening hour and the performance was greatly appreciated by the men and officers of the Battalion.   16   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 16. Educational work was carried on as usual.

DEFENCE SCHEME IN CASE OF RENEWAL OF HOSTILIES OR ENEMY ATTACH, 18th Canadian Battalion, Western Ontario Regiment

1.       In case warning is received that hostilities are to be renewed, the Brigade Reserve Battalion will push forward to the Rheinereithbach-Eudenbach-Muleip-Eitorf line as soon as possible in order to prevent any enemy observation of the 2nd Canadian Divisional Area, the 18th. Canadian Battalion holding itself in readiness to push forward and occupy line of resistance formed by forward battalions.

2.       In case the enemy attacks without previous warning, “B” Company will withdraw from Brohl area to the heights – Heistershloss and Happerschoss. “D” Company will occupy the “Schloss Allner, and occupying high ground to the North-east, connecting with “B” Company, destroying bridges over the river Sieg, and prevent enemy crossing the river. “C” Company will occupy Hennef, covering Railway Lines and barricading all Railway lines at present Outpost Line.

a.       “A” Company in Battalion Reserve, will move to Weingarts-Gass, holding themselves in readiness to reinforce any part of the Battalion frontage immediately on receipt of instructions.

3.       In case of attack, as in para. 2 above, Companies will act on receipt of the word “Positions”. “A” Company will reinforce on receipt of the words “Battle-Positions” followed by location and will counter-attack on receipt of words “Drive Back” followed by location.

Signed by:- C.Cook, Lieut. Adjt. 18th. Canadian Battalion. 16.1.19.

Copy of Defence Scheme attached, appendix No. 17.

Lieut. J Morgan proceeded on leave to U.K. with 5 O.R’s Cap’t. C.H. Boulden and 1 O.R. returned from leave.

  17   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 18. Educational work was carried on as usual. Maj. J.J. Richardson returned from leave this date together with Cap’t. W.A.S. Porter and Lieut. C.D. Smith and 4 O.R.   18   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 19. Educational work was carried on as usual. 10 O.R’s on leave.   19   The Battalion paraded for Church Service to-day, the last service they would attend as a Battalion in Germany. Service being in the Cinema at 9:30 hours. Syllabi for the day attached, appendix No. 20.   20   The Battalion was relieved, to-day, by the 2nd/4th. Queens (Imperial). All reliefs completed by 13:00 hours. The Battalion moved off at 15:30 hours, in Full Marching Order, passing in review before Lt.-Col. L.E. Jones, D.S.O. and the Officer Commanding the 2nd./4th. Queens, and marched to Siegeberg, arriving there about 17:30 hours and entrained at 18:00 hours. The Battalion spent the night on the train while enroute for destination Fosses, Belgium. Moved order attached, appendix No. 21.   21   The day was spent on the train enroute from Germany. The Battalion arrived at Auvelais, Belgium at 18:00 hours and detrained and occupied Billets in this town for the night.   22   The Battalion remained in Auvelais for the day, resting.   23   The Battalion moved off at 13:00 hours, in Full Marching Order and marched to Fosses, Belgium, where we were to remain for some time, arriving in Fosses about, 15:00 hours. Move Order attached, appendix No. 22.   24   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached. Appendix No. 23. Preparations being made for a prolonged stay in this area, stoves, coal, etc. were secured to provide against the expected cold weather.   25   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 24. Educational Classes re-established and proceeded with as per Syllabi attached. Major J.S. Bell proceeded on leave on the 19th of January, 1919. 11 O.R’s on leave and 17 O.R’s returned.   26   The Battalion attended Church Service to-day and enjoyed one of the Padre’s excellent Sermons. Syllabi attached, appendix No. 25. 5 O.R’s on leave.   27   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 26. Educational work was carried on as usual. 5 O.R’s on leave and 2 O.R’s returned from leave.   28   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 27. Educational work was carried on as usual. 5 O.R’s on leave and 1 O.R’s returned from leave.   29   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 28. Educational work was carried on as usual.   30   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 29.   31   The Battalion continued training to-day as per Syllabi attached, appendix no. 30. Educational work was carried on as usual.

War Diary

Appendices

Maps

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: January 1919 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION From 1st January 1919 to 31st 

[k2kid]

...and no battalion has a more glorious record than our good old 18th.

…and no battalion has a more glorious record than our good old 18th.

Detail of the 18th Battalion April 1915 Nominal Roll showing the original officers.

On April 10, 1919 two news stories about the 18th Battalion were published on page three in the Border Cities Star. One story was about the past, told of a traitor in the 18th who “surrendered” to the Germans in July 1918 while the Battalion was stationed in the Telegraph Hill area in the Arras Sector. The other…

[k2kid]

Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION

From 1st October to 31st October, 1918

Volume 38 With appendices 1 – 15

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information Buissy Switch & Hindenburg Line V.30.b & D

Map 51.b. SE.

1 Maps for Reference: 51.b.SE. 1/20,000 51a.SW. 1/20,000 51.A 1/40,000

At 06:00 hrs. The Battalion moved across the CANAL DU NORD resting for the day in open fields south of the ARRAS / CAMBRAI ROAD at w.23. & 24. At dusk the Battalion received orders to move to positions in Divisional Support in the HAYNECOURT VILLAGE (X 15) with Bn. Hdqrs. in old German M.G. Dugout at X.9.c.10.30. In moving up enemy aircraft dropped bombs, killing O.R. and wounding Lieut. J.E. Wylie and 9 other Ranks. In accordance with 4th C.I.B. O.O. No. 20. These positions were put in a state of defence anticipating an enemy attack. One Other Rank admitted to hospital.

Divl. Support

X.9.c.10.30

2 At dawn the Battalion “Stood To” anticipating an enemy attach, which however, failed to materialize. The day was spent in cleaning up by the men and the issuing of Battle Equipment. The enemy shelled the area spasmodically during the day. Major. J.S. Bell and Capt. R.G. Elliott returned from leave to England. Two O.R.s from Paris Leave. Four O.R.s proceeded to First Army Rest Camp. 3 During the day having found good locations in respective companies’ Areas the Cookers and Water carts were brought up. The usual enemy scattered shells throughout the area during the day. Four O.R.s returned from First Army Rest Camp and four O.R.s from hospital. Two O.R.s to hospital. Two O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. 4 During the day Battalion Hdqrs. was moved to a more suitable location in X.14.central.  All Battle Stores, Bombs, Flares, etc. were formed into Company Dumps. A canteen was established to-day near one of our Company Hdqrs. enabling the men to keep well supplied with cigarettes and various eatables. Parties were sent forward to reconnoitre [sic] the MARCOING LINE in squares X.23, 17 and 12c. During there was heavy enemy bombing in the area. Lieut. H.N. Bawden proceeded on leave. Fourteen O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. 5 Weather clear. Orders were received to take up a position in the MARCOING LINE in event of heavy hostile attack and all companies were held in readiness to move forward. “Wintertime” came into operation at Midnight. There was scattered shelling of area during the day with heavy bombing at night. One O.R. from leave. One O.R. from hospital. Two O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. On O.R. proceeded to and one O.R. returned from Corps Gas Course. One O.R. to S.O. & S. Course SENLIS. 6 The Battalion bathed at MARQUION during the day, moved in small parties to and from the baths. There was scattered enemy shelling during the day and night with heavy enemy bombing at night. Lieut. L.E. Hankinson was killed by shell fire while going over his platoon frontage at night. Capt. T.H.O. Rayward and 2 O.R.s admitted to and 15 O.R.s returned from leave. 1 O.R. to hospital. 7 Orders were received that on an indefinite date the 2nd Cdn. Division would attack and establish bridge-head over the CANAL L’ESCAUT. This involving a night attach reconnoitering parties were again sent forward and “White” arm bands were issued to the Battalion. Nothing unusual occurred during the day. Considerable shelling and bombing at night. Capt. C.J. Jackson and 1 O.R. on leave. 2 O.R.s admitted to and 15 O.R.s returned from hospital. 7 O.Rs. arrived as reinforcements. 8 Word was received that the proposed night attack over the canal L’ESCUAT was cancelled as far as the 4th C.I.B. was concerned. The Battalion moved during the night to trenches in x.24.a & c. Battalion Hdqrs. was located in an old German Ammunition dump on the DOUAI-CAMBRAI road at x.24. Lieut. J.H. Barclay[i] and 2 O.R.s to First Army Musketry Camp. 10 O.R.s to Canadian Corps School. Capt. C.J. Jackson attached as instructor to 2nd Div. Wing. C.C.R.C. 6 O.R.s from Leave. 2 O.R.s to hospital. Two O.R.s killed in action. One O.R. wounded. 9 The Battalion rested in trenches in X.24.a.[?].c . in morning, moving off about noon overland to RAMILLIES being heavily shelled en route. Battalion Hdqrs. was located in a cellar of a house on the RAMILLIES-ESCAUDOEUVRES ROAD. At fourteen hrs. reconnoitering parties were sent out to located available bridge over the L’ESCAUT CANAL. On receipt of orders at 17:00 hours the battalion moved across the canal to positions in T.13& 19. And prepared to pass through the 5th C.I.B. in the following order: 18th. Battn. to LEFT, 19th. Battn. on RIGHT. 20th. Battn. in SUPPORT, and 21st. Battn. in RESERVE. Battn Hdqrs. located Chateau ESCAUDOEUVRES[ii]. 2 O.R.s killed in action and 1 O.R. wounded. Bn. “HQ” in Chateau Escaudoeuvres

Bn. “HQ”

T.10.d.40.50.

Map 51.a.SW

10 At 06:00 hours the Battalion assembled in T.20.a. & d. advancing to jumping off position in T.c.n.d. [?] from which position they jumped off under cover of an Artillery Barrage at 0.7:00 hrs. Battn. Hdqrs. was located in a funk hole in the railway cutting, at T.10.d.40.50. The 19th. Battalion was on the right and the 6th Bde. on the left. The Barrage was not good, the progress of the troops being retarded half an hour on account of our own shells breaking just ahead of the jumping off positions. “A” and “B” Companies (Left and Right respectively) led off, “D” Co’y in support, “C” Co’y, in Reserve. “A” Company reached old trenches in T.10.b. and T.11.a. but further progress was stopped by enemy M.G. fire from the left flank. The Brigade on the left not having gotten forward. “B” Co’y reached the river at T.11.b & d. where a line was formed and held. About 13:00 hrs. the 19th. Battalion with Calvary patrols were successful owing to the intense M.G. fire and the fact that our Artillery was out of range at this time. At 14:00 hrs. Lieut. L.E. Boulton with nine men went forward and established a post in railway embankment at T.11.b.50.60, east of ERCLIN RIVER which was found to be dry. No further attempt was made to advance during the day. During the days fighting the Battalion casualties were Lieut. W.A. Cash and 6 O.R.s killed in action, Lieuts. W. Spyer, M.M. Wilson, and A.E. Babcock and 70 O.R.s wounded. Lieut. J.C. Little and Batman were reported missing. 3 O.R.s were admitted to hospital to-day. The night passed very quietly Bn. “HQ” in Chateau Escaudoeuvres

  11 At 09:00 hors. The Battalion in support of the 20th. And 21st. Battalions advanced from trenches in T.10.b. and T.11.a & b. “C” and “D” Companies on right and left front respectively with “B” Co’y in support and “A” Co’y in Reserve. Battn. Hdqrs. was located in the cellar of a farm house at T.12.a.90.10. about 09:30 hrs. The two front line Battalions swung  over too far to the left and “C” Company when line was threatened by enemy tanks took up a position in O.31.c turning back three enemy Tanks with concentrated rifle Lewis Gun and Machine Gun fire, turning five enemy M.G.s around for this purpose. The front line Battalions being driven back by the enemy Tanks on the left and the Imperial Brigade on the right also withdrawing in conjunction with “B” Company to sunken road at T.6.b. and U.1.a. forming a line there with the 20th. And 21st. Battalions and a few men of the W. Yorks. Regt. Who had swung over on our area. At 15:30 hrs. “C” and “D” Co’ys attached to the 21st. Battn. advanced under an Artillery Barrage to N.30.d & O.25.c. & b. but the Imperials on the right not getting forward the troops were drawn back to form a line through N.36.d. & O.31.c. & d. (in which position they were relieved by Units of the 51st. Division). We were notified that the Battalion would be relieved by Units of the 51st. Division. Relief was complete at 23:00 hrs. “C” and “D” Companies were relieved by the Gordons and “A” and B” Co’ys by the Seaforth Highlanders. Upon relief the companies moved independently to billets at ESAUDOEUVRES. During the days operations Capt. W.J. Baxter and Lieut. T.V. Milford and 54 O.R.s were wounded. 11 O.R.s were killed in action and 18 O.R.s were wounded-gassed. Lieut. McMillan returned from leave. Capt. T.H.O. Rayward (and batman) proceeded to 12th. Instructors Course at Senior Officers School, Aldershot. 1 O.R. proceeded to and 1 O.R. returned from Corps Gas Course. 5 O.R.s proceeded to and 2 O.R.s returned from hospital. 12 The men rested during the day. At 17.00 hours the Battalion moved to the village of THUN-LEVEQUE the men were billeted in good billets there, the village having been recently evacuated by the enemy and only slightly damaged by shell fire 3 O.R.s admitted to hospital. Bn. H.Q. Thun-Leveque

T.3.a.6.7.

13 The Battalion rested in billets during the day. The men were able to get a plentiful supply of a great variety of vegetables from the gardens of the village. The canals nearby were well stocked with fish and these were secured by the means of exploding German cylindrical sticks in the water. Rear Details moved up from X.24 and joined the Battalion at noon. The canteen was opened up, with a good stock in the afternoon. Lieut. M.R. Sloan proceeded on leave. 6 O.R’s returned from leave. 14 Upon receipt of Warning Order all preparations were made for going into the line. Rear Details moving back to ESWARS when the Battalion went forward at dusk relieving the 24th. Cdn. Bn. in the Right Front Line from N.5.d.20.55. to N.22.b.00.90. Battalion headquarters was located in a chateau at HORDAIN at N.16.b.70.50. This was formerly used by enemy as a hospital. Relief was completed by 20.25 hours. During the night the Battalion area was heavily shelled with H.E. and gas shells. One other rank was wounded. 2 O.R’s proceeded and 1 O.R. returned from leave. 4 O.R’s proceeded to and 20 O.R’s returned from hospital. 3 O.R’s arrived a reinforcements. Appendix No. 3 (18th. Bn. Order No. D.250) and Appendix No. 4 (Disposition Sketch) attached. 15 At 21.30 hours last night Lieut. MacMillan and 16 O.R’s with a Lewis Gun left our lines at N.10 central and patrolled from N,16.c.80.10. to N.15.d.80.50 returning to point of exit at 04.00 hours this morning. At 04,40 hours Lieut. Stokes and 3 O.R’s left Bn. H.Q. to reconnoitre Canal. No enemy were seen. There was considerable artillery activity on both sides during the day. HORDAIN was shelled with H.E. and gas shells. Visibility was fair and considerable [activity] was observed on enemy roads. 3 O.R’s proceeded on and 1 O.R. returned from leave. 16 During the night 15th/16th the following patrols covered the Battalion frontage. Lieut. A.E. Jones[iii] with 8 O.R’s patrolled N.16.a and c. up to our position in N.10 and found the ground dry and level and not swampy until area immediately North of platoon in N.10.centreal. Enemy M.G.s where active sweeping the area from approximately N.15.central. On attempting to cross canal in a punt Lieut. Jones and 2 O.R’s were fired on by an M.G. in a house at N.16.c.50.20. Another enemy left this house and proceeded N.W. disappearing behind hedge at N.16.c.10.20. Another patrol consisting of Lieut. Jones and 6 O.R’s in early morning crossed bridge at N.23.a.70.70 and patrolled down road south of canal for 300 yards, then south to N.22.a.cental, thence along road running N.E. to bridge in N.22.a.70.70 No enemy were seen or heard. Our artillery was active during the day. Lieut. McAmmond and W.K. Rooney and 4 O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. Lieut. H.A. Secord proceeded on leave and on O.R. returned from leave. 3 O.R.s proceeded to and 5 O.R.s returned from hospital. 5 O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. 17 The following patrols covered our frontage last night. Lieuts. J.A. McMillan[iv] and 12 O.R.s left our line at 20:00 hrs. at N.16.c.60.20 and patrolled from N.15.d.80.50 to N.10.c.40.40 thence to B.10.central returning to point exit 05:00 hrs. reporting no enemy seen, but considerable M.G. fire from N.4 andN.5. 2 Officers and O.R.s were out between 21:00 and 23:00 hrs. and located M.G. post at approximately N.5.b.50.50. and N.5.d.85.80. They reported that water was slowly flooding in N.5.c. and spread over from CANAL L’ESCUAT to within 100 yards of our post at N.5.c.99.45. Ours and hostile artillery acted during the night. Lieut. Gs. Hosford was killed by M.G. fire while visiting his platoon at night. 1 O.R. also wounded during the night. 4 O.R.s returned from First Army Rest Camp. 2 O.R.s proceeded to and 17 O.R.s returned from hospital. 5 O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. 18 A daylight patrol consisting of Lieut. Stokes and 3 Battalion scouts reconnoitred our post in N.5.c.00.40. and as far as N.5.d.65.90. No enemy were seen. Hostile M.G.s were active during the day. Weather fair but very misty. During the evening the Battalion heavily shelled with H.E and gas. One O.R. wounded. In accordance with 4th C.I.B. order 00 No. 26 and 18th. Battalion O.O.d.251 Battalion was relieved by the 20th. Cdn. Battn. Relief was complete at 21:10 hrs. Upon relief companies moved independently to THUN-LEVEQUE taking over billets formerly occupied there. 2 O.R.s proceeded on and 2 O.R.s returned from leave. 3 O.R.s returned from hospital. Appendix No. 5. (OO.No.D251) attached. Bn. “HQ”

T.3.A.60.70

19 Battalion paraded in the morning to Baths at ESWARS. At noon in accordance with instructions from Brigade, two companies moved to PAILLENCOURT and two companies moved to ESTRUN. Battn. “HQ” in Chateau at PAILLENCOURT at N.26.50.85. 5 O.R.s to and 1 O.R. from hospital. 2 O.R.s on leave. Paillencourt

N.26.a.50.85

Map 51A

20 & 21 The mornings were occupied with Company and Unit inspections. Parades for kit shortages were also held. The remainder of the day the Battalion rested in billets. Many of the men went fishing in the near by canals. On the 29th. Lieut. Col. Jones proceeded to PARIS on leave. Lieut. MacRae to England on leave. 2 O.R.s from hospital. Lieut. L.E. Boulton to Officers Rest House, PARIS-PLAGE. Lieut. T.V. Milford died of wounds at No. 33 C.C.S. On the 21st. Lieut. Bandan[v] and on O.R. returned from leave. 3 O.R.s from hospital. 22 In accordance with 4th. C.I.B. Order No. 28. And 18th. Battn. Order No. D.252 the Battalion moved in fighting order to the ANICHE area in A.50. The Battalion moved off at 08:30 hrs. and marched by WASHES-MARQUETTE Road junction in H.14.a. arriving at destination at noon. Bn. “HQ” were located at RUE. DE DRION at G.6.d.20.70. 2 O.R.s on leave. Appendix No. 6 (18th. Battn. O.O. No. D.252) attached. ANICHES

G.6.d.20.70.

Map 51A

23 The billets of the entire Battalion here ae without doubt the best and most comfortable we have ever occupied during the recent advance. There are no civilians in town, they being forced by the enemy to accompany him in his retirement The numerous gardens about the town were well stocked and furnished a plentiful supply of vegetables for the men. 1 O.R. on leave and 2 O.R.s returned from hospital. Battalion training as per Appendix No. 7 (Syllabus for 23rd.) attached. 24 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 8. (Syllabus for 24th.) attached. Lieut. A.T. Fergusson and 2 O.R.s proceeded on leave. 1 O.R. to England for duty with R.A.F. 25 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 9. (Syllabus for 25th.) attached. Lt-Col. Jones returned from leave to PARIS. 4 O.R.s on leave. 3 Sergt. Instructors (Drill, Lewis Gun and Musketry) attached from C.C.R.C. 2 O.R.s from courses. 26 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 10. (Syllabus for 26th.) attached. 3 O.R.s on leave. 2 O.R.s arrived and reinforcements. 27 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 11. (Syllabus for 27th.) attached. Lieut. C.A. Whittle and 3 O.R.s on leave. 1 O.R. proceeded to and 3 O.R.s returned from hospital. 28 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 12. (Syllabus for 28th.) attached. 6 O.R.s on leave. 4 O.R.s proceeded to ENGLAND for Cadets Course. 1 O.R. arrived as reinforcement. 2 O.R. proceeded to and 7 O.R.s returned from hospital. 29 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 13. (Syllabus for 29th.) attached. 4 O.R.s proceeded on leave. 30 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 14. (Syllabus for 30th.) attached. Lieut. M.R. Sloan returned from leave. 6 O.R.s on leave. 1 N.C.O. attached C.C.R.C. as Instructor. 2 O.R.s to hospital. 2 O.R.s to Canadian Corps Sniping Course. 31 Battalion training as per Appendix No. 15. (Syllabus for 31st.) attached. Lieut. G. Thomas and 12 O.R.s proceeded on leave. Lieut. L.E. Boulton returned from Officers Rest House, PARIS-PLAGE.

  [i] The War Diaries consistently misspell this name. This is Lieutenant John Henry BARKLEY (MC).

[ii] Possibly this chateau.

[iii] This officer’s identity has not been verified.

[iv] Lieutenant John Alister MacMillan.

[v] This officer not identified.

War Diary

Appendices

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: October 1918 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION From 1st October to 31st October, 1918…

[k2kid]

Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION

From 1st August to 31st August, 1918

Volume 36 With appendices 1 – 15

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information G.H.Q. RESERVE PISSY

Map Sht. 62.M.

1 Battalion moved off, in battle order, to attend Tank Demonstration. “A” Coy. participated in afternoon. Remainder observed demonstration. Lieut. M.R. Sloan returned from Musketry Course. 1 O.R. to hospital. 1 O.R. reinforcement. 2 Battalion carried on with usual routine in training during morning. Afternoon occupied in recreational training. 2 O.Rs rejoined from Course at VI Corps School. Lieut. Goodman proceeded to III Army Infantry School. 2 O.Rs returned from leave. 3 Training carried out on as per attached syllabus. A 7.00 p.m. Battalion moved off in fighting order en route for CAGNY to go into billets, arriving at 5.00 a.m. Major J.S. Bell returned from leave. 1 O.R. proceeded on leave. 1 O.R. to hospital. G.H.Q. RESERVE CGNY Map Sht. 62.K.

S.4.a.80.80

4 Battalion rested here during day. Moved on into Reserve behind VII Australian Division near CACHY. Battalion H.Q. at U.7.a.50.40. Disposition sheet attached. “B” Echelon and Rear Details remained at CAGNY. RESERVE Map Sht. 62.E.

U.7.a.50.50

nr. CACHY

5 Remained in Position all day resting near CACHY. 2 O.Rs to Hospital. 6 Extra ammunition etc. issued for proposed operations. A/Capt. A.R. Mackedie returned from 1st Army Musketry School. Lieut. R.R. Hartry returned from leave. 1 O.R. proceeded on leave. 2 O.Rs to hospital. 7 Battalion relieved 50th Australian Battalion from U.5.b.10.20 exclusive to U.5.c.00.35 inclusive, and assumed jumping off positions for the operation on the 8th, according to barrage map attached. 8 O.R.s ret. From 1st Army Rest Camp. Lieut. Hosford and 3 O.Rs proceeded on Courses. 2 O.Rs to hospital. 1 O.R. committed to prison. FRONT LINE

Ref. Map 62.E.

U.5.b.10.20 to U.5.c.00.35

8 In contrast to the clear evening previous, the morning of the 8th found a heavy fog in evidence, obstructing all view of the German line and proposed objective. Zero hour had been set to 4.20 a.m. An hour previous all Coys. had taken up their assault positions. Half an hour before the commencement of our bombardment, German artillery of heavy calibre laid down a light barrage on our position, particularly heavy fire being directed on the wood to the South-West of VILLERS-BRETTENEAUX. First impression was that our attack had been anticipated, but his shelling ceased just prior to the opening up of our guns.

No preliminary bombardment was indulged in. At 4.30 sharp [our] barrage fell on the German Front line and the Battalion jumped off immediately.

The disposition of the Companies was as follows:- “C” Coy. in 2 platoon frontage was responsible for the Right Flank and contact waves with the 1st Canadian Division; “B” Company in center on a 2 platoon frontage; “A” Company with similar frontage on the left connecting up with the 19th Cdn. Battalion; “D” Company in Support.

The objective lay some 200 yards to the East of MARCELCAVE and the quarry adjoining it.

Operating under a magnificent barrage, and closely co-operating with the tanks, whose support to the infantry was one of the finest features of the day, the Battalion had [reached] the extreme limit of its objective at 7.45 a.m. Casualties where light, partly due to the fog barrier and the admirable manner in which are advance was conducted.

Lieut. Ferguson was wounded in the jumping off. Captain Michell was wounded in the first half mile of the advance along with Captain Wigle; Lieut’s Faulkner and Sheridan a short time later.

Amongst the material captured at MARCELCAVE were five 5.9 Hows., and three 2.2 mm Guns, in addition to a great deal of signal equipment and valued Surgical and Medical Stores.

The Battalion pushed on past the quarries and established a line of defence about 300 yards beyond. Throughout the [affair], considerable opposition was encountered, chief of which lay in the form of well secreted machine-gun nests. The work of Captain T.H.C. Rayward in disposing of some of this [formidable] opposition was very exemplary to all ranks.

Casualties to the extent of approximately 30 killed and 120 wounded were sustained in the advance. 56 O.R’s arrived as reinforcements. 2 O.R’s proceeded on leave.

QUARRY near MACELCAE Ref. Map DEMUIN V.16.d.25.40 9 At 9.00 a.m. the Battalion, less “B” Echelon, moved off and marched to W.19.central where they bivouacked in fields, awaiting further orders from Brigade. The night was spent at this location, shelters improvised from the abandoned enemy material being used by the men. Considerable bombing and machine gun fire of the locality, especially the roads enclosing the position, where carried out by enemy aircraft but no casualties resulted. 5 O.R’s to hospital. Ref. Map 62.e.NW

W.19.Central

10 Moving off at 4.00 pm., Battalion went into Divl. Reserve, occupying the old AMIENS Defence line, about a mile beyond CAIX with Battalion H.Q. at E.16.b.90.70 approx. Coys were in close proximity and Transport directly in rear. 1 O.R. on leave. 1 O.R. from hospital. nr. CAIX Map 62.e.NW

E.16.b.90.70

11 Battalion moved off at 8.30 p.m. and marched to ROSIERES relieving 28th Cdn. Bn. in Divl. Reserve. Bn. H.Q. at approx. F.8.a.60.90 and disposition of Coys as follows: “A” & “B” Coy – FRONT. “C” & “D” Coys – SUPPORT. By 10.00 p.m. all Coys. were in position. Transport was located for the night on the outskirts of ROSIERES. 1 O.R. on leave. ROSIERES

F.8.a.60.90

12 Battalion remained here throughout the great portion of the day. Intermittent shelling of the locality by a H.V. Gun occurred for some time. No casualties resulted. At 10.00 p.m. Bn. H.Q. Details moved off, with Coys. moving independently, to relieve 2 Coys. of 50th Cdn. Bn. and 2 Coys. of 75th Cdn. Bn. in Bde. Support position at f.30 a. & c. and F.23 b. & d. respectively. Bn. H.Q. located at FOUQUESCOURT Corner at F.28.d.9.7. Relief completed at 4.00 a.m. 13th. Lieut. W.A.S. Porter and 2 O.Rs proceeded on leave. FOUQUESCOURT Corner

F.26.d.9.7.

BDE. SUPPORT

13 “B” Echelon moved from ROSIERES to Wood just North of WARVILLERS. Remainder of Bn. remained in Brigade supports. For location Coys. see disposition state attached. 1. O.R. to hospital. 1 O.R. returned from Course. Lts. Gerrard & Cole & 100 O.Rs arrived as reinforcement. 14 At 5.45 a.m. “D” Coy. AA. Gun shot down a low-flying enemy plane, which crashed near Rlyy. In F.5.d. With expectation of resuming the offensive, in conjunction with the attached Bde. Operation Order No. 245, Bn. moved into aras [sic] directly behind assembly positions as shown in attached sketch& disposition state. Lts. Edwards & Wittle [sic] & 50 O.Rs arrived as reinforcements. I.11.b.335.50 15 Adv. H.Q. at I.12.c.05.90. For disposition of Coys. see att. Disposition state. “A” & “B” coys. placed at disposal of O.C. 19th Cdn. Bn., in the event of the last named unit requiring assistance.

At. 3.00 a.m. area in which Bn. was located was subjected to heavy gas bombardment, the line occupied by “C” & “D” Coys receiving particularly severe gassing. Enemy shelling of high calibre H.E. also occurred through the day. During the night Bn. moved back to Bde. Support with Bn. H.Q. in old trench line at I.10.a.2.5. Adv. H.Q. maintained and did not fall back at that time.

1 O.R. on leave. 1 O.R. to Hayling Is. Eng. Musketry Course. Capt. J.C. Little returned from course. 1 O.R. killed; 10 wounded – gassed.

BDE. SUPPORT

I.10.a.2.5

16 At 3.30 a.m. Bn. was dispositioned according to attached state. “A” & “B” Coys under order from Bde. united with 19th Bn. & moved forward to Assembly positions. “C” & “D” Coys. standing to, were called in at 4.30 and also moved forward to support of the 19th Cdn. Bn. In attack on German positions that followed Capt. T.H.C. Rayward came in for special mention for his fine work (see attached narrative of operation and personal letter of O.C. 19th Cdn. Bn. Lieut. R.E. Lawrence [Lawrance] rejoined & Lt. R.E. Rouse arrived as reinforcement. 1 O.R. committed to prison. 1 O.R. on leave. 1 O.R. to and 1 from Hospital. 21 O.rs wounded. 17 In the early morning “A” & “B” were relieved by 2 Coys of 46th Cdn. Bn. and “C” & “D” Coys by 2 Coys of 47th Cdn. Bn. At daybreak Bn. moved independently to the old AMIENS defence line, which they occupied for the balance of the day. In the afternoon a bath parade was held at CAIX, and a Bn. parade at 5.15 p.m. after which units marched to WEINCOURT. Bn. H.Q. locating in church at W.13.a.30.70. and Coys. & Transport at V.18.d. Lieut. J.T. Taylor gassed & 4 O.Rs wounded – gassed. WIENCOURT

W.13.a.30.70

18 Pay parade during the day. 2 O.Rs arrived as reinforcements. 1 O.R. on course and 1 O.R. returned from course. 1 O.R. on leave. 2 O.Rs returned from hospital. 19 Capt. Mackedie & party of 75 O.Rs worked under Divl. Salvage Officer cleaning up area between WEINCOURT and MARCELCAVE. At 9.15 p.m. Bn. moved off and marching via CACHY, bivouaced in field outside BOVES. 4 O.Rs to hospital. 1 O.R. on leave. Lieut. M.M. Wilson & 2 O.Rs to C.C.R.C. 4 O.Rs ret. from Guards Divn. BOVES 20 Packs which had been stored here were reissued to the men. Bn. entrained and leaving at 11.30 a.m. proceeded through AMIENS to WAVRAMS [sic] which was reached by midnight. The arrival here marked transfer of Bn. from 4th Army to 1st Army jurisdiction. Marching from WAVRANS a distance of 3 kilos. Bn. billeted at PIERREMONT – G.H.Q. Reserve. 1 O.R. on leave. 1 O.R. ret. from hospital. PIERREMONT 21 1 O.R. on leave. 22 1 O.R. on leave. 1 O.R. to hospital. PIERREMONT 23 Transport moved off at 4.00 a.m. for BERNEVILLE. At 11.15 a.m. Bn. moved to WAVRANS where they entrained at 3.45 p.m. for MARCEUIL. They detrained at 7.00 p.m. and marched to BERNEVILLE, arriving 3 hours later. Lieut. J. Morgan proceeded on leave. 3. O.Rs to hospital. 2 O.Rs ret. from Cdn. Corps School BERNEVILLE 24 At 7.30 p.m. Bn. less Details out of line, moved off for Support Area in Telegraph Hill Sector. 1 O.R. on leave. 3 O.Rs to hospital. TELEGRAPH HILL

Support Area.

25 Bn. waited in readiness for coming operations. 4 O.Rs to Hospital. 1 O.R. from hospital. 1 O.R. reinforcement. 26 At 3:00 a.m. following intense 5 min. barrage Bn. jumped off TILOY [sic] TRENCH in front of TELEGRAPH HILL in support of 21st Cdn. Bn. The artillery preparation was good. Owing to getting lost in the darkness, the tanks detailed to go over with the Bn. failed to turn up per schedule, so the Unit was without their assistance in the initial kick-off.

MINORCA TRENCH, a difficult nut to crack, was set as the first objective, and SOUTHERN AVENUE TRENCH as the second objective. Both positions were won by 8.00 a.m. “D” Coy. holding the last named defence line in conjunction with the 21st Cdn. Bn. “A” Coy. remained in GORDON TRENCH, and “B” Coy at the first objective, MINORCA TRENCH.

Up to this time the casualties had been far smaller than anticipated, although Lieut. McHardy had gone only a short distance from the Assault trench when he sustained mortal shrapnel wounds.

The German resistance had been slight but at this point was considerably strengthened. At 1. o’clock, the Bn. was ordered to capture the village of GUIMAPPE. Personal reconnaissances in broad daylight and under sever fire by Major C.M.R. Graham and Capt. D.A.G. Parsons, M.C., O.Cs respectively for “D” and “C” Coys. were first conducted. Waiting until artillery support, inadequate as it was to meet the situation, had been obtained, “C” & “D” Coys at 4.00 p.m. advanced and captured the ruined town. Casualties in the face of both terrific machine gun and artillery barrages laid down by the enemy were fairly heavy.

Lieut. Brackin [sic], who had done brilliant work up to this moment, was instantly killed by a shell and Capt. Parsons and Lieut. Edwards sustained wounds that resulted in their immediate evacuation.

Resultant of the progress, “C” and “D” Coys occupied and consolidated STAG TRENCH, and “A” and “B” Coys moved forward to RAKE AND GORDON TRENCHES respectively. At. 11 p.m. “A” Coy under the fine leadership of Lieut. Spence, went forward, despite most stubborn opposition, and captured CALVARY TRENCH. Unfortunately, the achievement went for naught, as the Unit on their immediate left was held up and the Coy. at 3.00 a.m., 27th, after 4 hours of desperate fighting was compelled to withdraw temporarily to RAKE TRENCH. Approx. all ranks 10 killed & 15 wounded. 1 O.R. ret. from leave & 1 O.R. on leave. 2 O.Rs ret. from army rest camp.

RAKE TRENCH in front of GUIMAPPE 27 With the ARRAS-CAMBRAI Road as the left boundary, the Bn. supported the 20th Cdn. Bn. attacked VILLERS GAGINCOURT (VILLERS-ARTOIS) at 10. a.m. By noon, VIS-EN-ARTOIS and the SENSEE RIVER and SENSEE RIVER VALLEY had been reached. At this juncture, a barrage scheduled to continue after half an hours curtailment failed to materialise. Consequently an outpost line running for VIS EN ARTOIS along the West bank of the river had to be formed. Major McIntosh, acting O.C. of the Bn. was wounded while reconnoitring forward positions, and the command of the Unit fell to Major Bell. Lieut. Spence, Comdg “A” Coy., was shot and killed by a German sniper and Lieut. Gerrard suffered severe wounds from shell fire.

3 O.Rs to England for Officers course. 2 O.Rs to England for R.A.F. course. Approx. casualties all ranks, 15 killed & 150 wounded. Major J.J. Richardson ret. from Officers Course, Eng. 4 O.Rs to and 2 O.Rs from hospital. 1 O.R. on leave

SENSEE RIVER LINE 28 Zero hour for this days operation was set for 12.30 noon. Bn. was in support of 20th Bn. Heavy casualties were suffered in the advance to the slope of the SENSEE RIVER, machine gun nests and wire in the German line being equally heavy. Capt. Mackedie was shot through the hand and instantly killed rushing a German gun post; Lieut. Cole, shot through the eye, was afterwards found dead; Major Graham and Lts. Lawrence [sic], Donaldson and Krug were wounded. Under terrific fire the Bn. was compelled to temporarily withdraw and take up a line in the sunken roads fronting the German wire East of the SENSEE RIVER. 52 O.R. arrived as reif. 3 O.Rs on leave. Approx. casualties all ranks, 10 killed & 70 wounded. SUNKEN ROAD beyond SENSEE RIVER 29 At 2.00 a.m. the Battalion was relieved by the 8th Cdn. Bn. 1st Can. Div. and moving independently proceeded to WANCOURT. Capt. W.J. Baxter arrived and reif. 1 O.R. on leave. 1 O.R. to hospital. In the early afternoon Coys. proceeded independently, move to ARRAS where they billeted for the night. ARRAS 30 Bn. move at 2.00 p.m. and marched to SIMENCOURT, where they billeted. Lt. L.E. Boulton and 1 O.R. on leave. 3 O.Rs to hospital. 31 Bn. was inspected by Coys. in the morning, and rested remainder of day.

War Diary

  Appendices

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: August 1918 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION From 1st August to 31st August, 1918…

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Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION

From 1st July to 31st July, 1918

Volume 35 With appendices 1 – 7

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information G.H.Q. RESERVE LATERE-ST-QUENTIN. J.23, 24, 29 and 30. Bn. Hdqrs at J.25.d.80.20 1   Lorries called at 7.45 a.m. and took about 14 officers and 150 men to TINQUES to attend the Cdn. Corps, Dominion Day, Sports, returning about 7.00 p.m. one O.R. returned from hospital.   2/3   Training per syllabus attached. One O.R. to hospital. 2nds. One O.R. on leave to U/K. 3rd. Lieut. G.J. Spencer attached 2nd Divnl. Hdqrs 2nd. Captain T.H.O. Rayward returned from 2nd Div. Wing, C.C.R.C. 3 N.C.O.s attached from C.C.R.C. as Instructors. Afternoons devoted to recreational training.   4   Training per syllabi attached. Lieut. J.N. Mowbray arrived as reinforcement. Capt. C.J. Jackson returned from hospital.   5   Training as per syllabus attached. One N.C.O. to England as instructor, Cdn. Signal School.   6   Training as per syllabus attached. One O.R. on leave to Paris. One O.R. to hospital and three returned. One instructor detached from C.A.G.S. as instructor.   7   Battalion Church Parade at 9.15 a.m. on Parade Ground at J.24.c.10.10. R.C. Parade in Parish Church at 9.00 a.m. Lieut. C.E. Ogelsby proceeded to England for duty with the R.A.F. One O.R. to hospital and one returned.   8   At 8.45 a.m. the Battalion paraded in Full Marching Order to J.24.c.50.80, when G.O.C. 4th C.I.B. held an inspection. One O.R. to hospital. 6 O.R.s to rest camp.   9   Bathing, Pay and Inoculation Parades took up the greater portion the day. Training in morning carried out as per attached. Capt. D.St.J. Wigle and one O.R. on leave to Paris. Three O.R.s to Paris to attend ceremonial Parade on July 14. One O.R. on leave t U.K. 2 O.R.s from 3rd Army Rest Camp; 2 O.R.s   10   Training as per syllabus attached.  Major J.N. Richardson to England for Senior Officers Course, Aldershot. Lieut.-Colonel L.E. Jones returned for leave. 2 O.R.s to Base as miners.   11   Training as per syllabus attached. Coys. & Units carried out training on Aerodrome grounds J.25.c.30.50. while waiting to go through Gas Chamber.   12   Morning Battalion Parade and Ceremonial drill. Afternoon, Inspection, inspection of Brigade by G.O.C. Canadian Corps who presented medals to several O.R.s of the Battalion. 3 O.R.s to duty with 2nd Divl. Remount Party.   13   Battalion paraded in full marching order to Dainville, Divisional Reserve, as per Order No. D.220 attached. Transport and Q.M.S. Stores moved to Berneville. Capt. A.R. Mackedie on course to 1st Army Musketry School. 13 O.R.s classified “B.1” and “B.2” by medical board dispatched to Cdn. Corps Labor Pool. 4 N.C.O. Instructors attached from C.C.R.S. and C.A.G.S. despatched to H.Q. 2nds C.E.Bde.   14   Battalion Church Parade at 9.30 a.m. R.C. Service in Parish Church at 9.30 a.m. Personnel left out of line for training paraded at 6.30 p.m. & marched to rear details camp at Wanquetin. The Battalion paraded in Battle Order and moved off at 8.45 p.m. to proceed to trenches as per order No. D.221 attached. 52nd Battalion on our Right and 20th Battalion on our Left. Relief completed at 2.10 a.m. Battalion in Right sub-sector of Divl. Sector.   Night 14 / 15   Patrols supplied by units being relieved covered the Battalion frontage until relief was complete. They reported no enemy seen.   15   Conditions of defences – trenches in good condition, sufficiently deep to be free from observation & with good fire bays and field of fire. Three belts of wire in good condition extend along front. Any existing gaps covered by L.G. Fire. Battalion H.Q. & Details in dugouts in CREST trench. Daylight patrol consisting of Lieut. MacRae & Sgt. Manby left our line at N.1.c.40.25 at 3.30 p.m. & reconnoitered wagon road to approx. N.2.c.25.45 from which point good view was obtained of enemy defences. Party returned to our line at point of exit at 7.00 p.m. reporting no enemy seen. Situation during day fairly quiet. 2 O.R.s returned from Paris leave.   16   Our artillery & aircraft fairly active throughout day on enemy forward & rear country. Lieut. MacRae & Sgt. Manby left our lines at N.7.d.70.90 at 3.30 p.m. & crawled East to sunken road at N.8.a.08040. No further progress could be made owing to enemy observation on Right flank. Party returned to our line at 7.45 p.m. reporting no enemy seen. 4 O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. 1 O.R. returned from hospital.   Night 16 / 17   Work parties employed improving trenches & salvaging material. Lieut. Stokes and 3 Bn. Scouts & covering party of 10 O.R.s left are line at N.7.d.40.10 at 9.30 p.m. proceeding East to approx. N.8.c.70.05 where advance was checked by M.G. fire. Patrol returned to point of exit reporting enemy very quiet. Usual contact patrols covered ground between our Battalion & Battalion on right, report no enemy seen.   17   L/Cpl. W.L. Callander shot at German at N.2.c.30.15. Lieut. MacRae & Sgt. Manby left our line at N.6.a.08.40 at 3.30 p.m. & reconnoitered down DOUGLAS Trench to N.8.c.60.84 & vicinity. A post of H.Q. was located at N.8.a.85.20 & 4 Germans seen. Patrol returned to point of exit at 7.00 p.m. 1 O.R. to hospital. 1 O.R. wounded. Lt. A.V. Crammond attached 2nd C.E. Bde.   Night 17 / 18   Usual patrols covered our frontage during night, reporting enemy quiet. Working parties were employed improving trenches and salvaging material.   18   8.50 a.m. party of enemy made a stealth raid on an “A” Coy. Post, situated 200 yards in advance of front line, coming along old C.T. to block trench where post is situated, at N.7.d.45.15, killing one, wounding two & taking 2 O.R.s prisoners. Rear details moved from WANQUENTIN & Transport moved from BERNEVILLE to ANZIN-ST-ALBIN in afternoon. 1 O.R. to hospital.   Night of 18 / 19   Battalion relieved in line by 14th Cdn. Battn. as per Order No. D.222 attached, proceeding to G.H.Q. Reserve in ANZIN-ST-ALBIN. Relief complete at 1.20 a.m.   19   At 6.30 p.m. Battalion moved to BRANT CAMP, ECOIVRES, as per Order No. D.223 attached. 3 O.R.s returned from Ceremonial Parade, Paris. 1 O.R. reinforcement.   20   Working party of 10 Officers & 650 O.R.s employed digging new line of trenches at F.16.d & b. & F.22. Central. Lieut. Hartry and 1 O.R. leave to England. 1 O.R. returned from leave to Paris.   21   Battalion Church Parade at 10 a.m. R.C. Service in Parish Church at 10. a.m. 1 O.R. from hospital. Capt. D.St. Wigle returned from Paris leave. 1 O.R. leaving for U.K. 1 O.R. returned.   22   Working party as of yesterday employed digging trenches in F.30.c. & F.29.b. Lieuts. J. Faulkner and G. Thomas arrived as reinforcements. Lieut. J.C. Spence & 8 O.R.s to 1st Army Rest Camp.   23   Battalion moved to IZEL-LES-HAMEAU G.H.Q. Reserve, J.2.c.40.90, Map 51.c., as per Order No. D.224 attached.   24   Training per syllabus attached. Pay parades in afternoon & evening. Lieut.-Col. L.E. Jones D.S.O., Lieut. G.G. Brakin & 54360 Pte. Wackett, J. mentioned in Sir D. Haig’s despatches of April 7th, 1918. Lieut. McAmmond awarded M.C. & 124738 Pte. F. Stevens awarded D.C.M. Major J.S. Bell on leave to Paris. 1 O.R. on leave to U.K.   25   Training as per syllabus attached. 2 O.R.s to hospital.   26   Training as per syllabus attached. Lieut. S.G. Stokes and 1 O.R. leave to U.K. 2 O.R.s returned from leave. 4 N.C.O.s attached to Guards Div. for 1 months tour of duty.   27   Training as per syllabus attached. 1 O.R. to hospital.   28   Battn. Church parade at 9.00 a.m. R.C. Service in Parish Church at 9.00 a.m.   29   Training as per syllabus attached. 1 O.R. reinforcement. 4 O.R.s to hospital. 1 O.R. returned.   30   Battalion paraded in full marching order at 3.00 a.m. and marched via VILLER SUR SIMON, MAIZIERES & MONT EN TERNOIS to PETIT HOUVAIN, where after about 2 hours rest in a field, Battn. entrained at about 9.30 a.m. arriving at HANGERST SUR SOMME about 2.00 p.m. At 4.00 p.m. Battalion marched via SOUES, CAVILLION & SEUX to PISSY arriving about 9.30 p.om. The combined distance of morning and afternoon marches was about 36 kilometres. 1 O.R. on leave to U.K. Pissy

Bn. H.Q. at F.28.d.3.2.

Map 62.E.

31   Battalion resting in billets.

War Diary

Appendices

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: July 1918 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION From 1st July to 31st July, 1918…