#Lieut. J.N. MacRae

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

From 1st May to 31st May, 1918

Volume 33 With appendices 1 – 9

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information Bretencourt 1   MAPS for Reference 51b sheet 2 51c [illegible] 2

  Battalion in reserve billets at Bretencourt r.26.d. Company Parades and inspections. Training of specialists by instructors.

  Recreational training and games during afternoon

Do 2   Company inspections of arms and Equipment. Battalion parade for Gas lecture. Games such as Football, Baseball etc. during the afternoon. 17 o.r.s as Reinforcements and 3 o.r.s from hospital. Relief 3 7.30 pm During night of 3/4th 18th Canadian Bn. relieved the 29th Canadian Bn. in the front line Right subsection. Battalion moved to Blainville branching off to a cross country track about ½ mile before reaching Blainville. From this track to sunken road at S.5.c.25.25. and on through communication trenches to their respective positions. Positions and locations being A, C, and D coys in front line. B coy in support. Each of the 3 front line companies having 2 platoons in front line and 2 in close support from S.5.d.80.70 to S.12.c.70.85. B coy being located at S.11.a.60.50 to S.11.a.65.00. Bn HQ at S.11.a.60.35. Relief completed at 11.35 pm. 2 o.r.s wounded.

  During this tour rations were brought to railway track by wagons and from there to support lines by pack mules (see map attached).

S.5.d to S.12.c. 4   Position as shown. During the day working parties furnished by Battalion building dug-outs and repairing trenches. Enemy artillery being very active during the whole of the day. During the night 4/5th several patrols covered Bn. frontage. 1 Patrol of 11 o.r.s under Lieuts McRae & Stokes entered No Man’s Land at 11 pm at S.12.a.22.60 and proceeded along the lines from there to S.12.a.90.10 and N.W. to S.12.a.51.72 returning S.W. entering trenches at point of exit, no enemy were encountered or seen. A 2nd Patrol of 16 o.r.s under Lieut. R.C. Sheridan accompanied by 7 o.r.s of the 28th Cdn. Bn. went out to recover the body of one of their men. This patrol went up an old C.T. [communication trench] to approx. S.6.a.10.80 where 16 men were left as covering party. Lieut. Sheridan and the men of the 28th Bn. returned up this trench to S.6.c.30.95 where the body was recovered. Nothing unusual occurred.   5   Enemy artillery active shelling the whole area and also rear country, sending a number of gas shells into Boyelles. 3 o.r.s wounded. Considerable movement was observed in enemy lines during the whole day. At 5.55 om an explosion was observed to take place in enemy lines at T.10.c which appeared to be either a flare or cordite dump. Working parties again supplied during night 5/6th enemy relief was suspected and our artillery shelled road and overland routes near enemy trenches. Night 5/6th   During night 3 patrols coved Bn. frontage and made reconnaissance of [ridge/hedge] and ground directly in front. Our patrol under Lieut. Stokes and another under Lieut. Sheridan, no enemy were encountered and nothing unusual occurred with the exception of considerable M.G. fire by the enemy.   6th   Intermittent shelling by enemy during the day. 50 o.r.s of B coy working in 4 shifts worked 6 hours on new Bn. HQ. 100 o.r.s of B coy worked 3 hour carrying wire & stakes from Bn. ration dumps to A coy front line. All available men of D coy were employed clearing and repairing trenches in their front area. 1 o.r. wounded.   7th   Situation quiet during the day. During night 7/8th working parties were assigned as last night. 8 o.r. arrived as reinforcements.   8th   Our artillery shelled at intervals enemy trenches and rear country at 8.45 pm. Enemy put heavy barrage on our front support lines lasting about 15 minutes. 1 o.r. being wounded. During night patrols covered Bn. frontage. One patrol under Lieuts. MacRae and Sheridan with 20 o.r.s and Lewis gun went out to end of a sap at S.6.d.11.60. where Lieut. Sheridan and 18 o.r.s remained. As covering party asLieut. MacRae and 2 scouts proceeded S.E. to definitively locate enemy M.G. post which was supposed to be in a shell crater. It was our intention after learning this to bring up remainder of patrol with Lewis Gun and rad the post, but owing to considerable activity by artillery with gas shells and shrapnel our patrol was forced to withdraw.   9th   Artillery fairly active on both sides during the day. Considerable movement was observed in Enemy lines during the day and our artillery paid attention to this. During the night fatigue parties worked clearing and repairing trenches in our area. 2 patrols under Lieuts. Sheridan and Stokes patrolled Bn. frontage from 10 pm to 3 am no enemy being seen or encountered.   10th   Situation quiet today. Usual working parties at night improving trenches. Protective and reconnaissance patrols covered Bn. frontage with nothing unusual to report. 1 o.r. wounded. Relief 11th   During the morning our right front was subjected to marked attention by enemy heavy trench mortars. Protective patrol covered Bn. frontage, nothing unusual report.

  19th Canadian Bn. our relief. 18th Bn. moved into Brigade Reserve in the Purple Line system of trenches (see map attached.) A, C, and D coys being in Purple firing line and B coy had 2 platoons in Intermediate line and 2 platoons at Mercatel Switch. Relief being completed by 12.15 am.

  12th   Nothing unusual occurred, men employed digging funk holes & making shelters during the day.   13th   During night 12/13 fatigue parties digging funk holes in support line and cleaning trenches.   14th 9.30 am B coy moved from position at Mercatel Switch to position in Purple support line (see map attached) being relieved by the 20th Can. Bn. New positions being M.31.b.00.70 to M.31.a.00.70.

During night of 14/15 Bn. again supplied working parties for work on Bgde. H! and dugouts at R.34.a.6.4. also digging funk hole, latrines etc. in Support lines.

WAILLY 15th   Considerable artillery activity in counter battery firing and on observation balloons forcing 2 enemy balloons to descend.

During the night of 15/16th Battalion was relieved in support by the 22nd Canadian Bn. On completion of relief at 9.20 pm Battalion moved into Divisional reserve at WAILLY HUTS, R.23.a. 16 o.r.s arrived as reinforcements.

WAILLY 16   Battalion Bath and Pay parades occupied the whole of the day.   17th   Company parades and inspections of clothing and equipment and arms. Platoon training by Platoon commanders. During the afternoon recreational training & organized games carried out.   18   Company parades and inspections. Training in open warfare, artillery formations and skirmishing. Recreation in the afternoon.   19   Usual parades inspections and training. Maj. J.A. McIntosh attached to Canadian Corps School. 2 o.r. admitted to hospital.   20   Company parades. Platoon training and recreation in afternoon. Specialist training in M.G. work, sounding etc.   21st   Company parades and inspections. Physical training and close order drill. Recreation in afternoon. 2 o.r.s admitted to hospital.   22   Company Parades and inspections in the morning.

During the night 22/23rd Battalion relieved the 31st Canadian Bn. in left Battalion frontage. Battalion moved off from WAILLY at 8.00 pm in fighting order passing overland to front line positions in front of Neuville Vitasse. Bn. H! at M.16.a.95.55. And and B in front line from N.13.1.100.90 to M.24.b.60.50. C and D coys in support at M.18.b and c. Relief was completed without casualty at 1.50 am.

  23   Situation quiet. Two patrols covered Battalion frontage during night and reported our shellfire causing casualties in enemy posts. 5 o.r.s admitted to hospital.   24   Nothing unusual occurred during the day. Working parties furnished by Battalion for work during the night on trenches in Bn. area. Tow patrols were out during night. No. 1 Patrol Lieut McRae [MacRae] and 3 scouts located an enemy post at approx. [illegible map coordinates] but owing to night moonlight were unable to get close enough to secure post, but the enemy had in the meantime been alarmed and drove our party back with M.G. fire and bombs. No casualties occurred.   25   Working parties again furnished by Bn. for work during the night on trenches. One party of 1 officers and 12 other ranks constructed trip wires from N.19.a.25.57 to N.19.a.05.50. 2 patrols covered Bn. frontage during the night, nothing unusual to report.   26   Desultory shelling by enemy over who area and rear county.

A courageous act was done this morning by #212203 Arm. Cpl. D. A. KELLEY. At 8.15 Cpl. Kelley with a wiring party left our trench at N.19.a70.89 and proceeded up an old communication trench towards enemy lines to definitively locate positions and defences of enemy post located in this trench. Cpl. Kelley was able to get close to this post and found 3 Germans on sentry duty. He rushed the barrier in front of this post and shot 2 of the occupants and dragged the third across the barrier. Several of the enemy were seen to run back along the trench. An enemy machine gun opened up and bombs where thrown but Cpl. Kelley returned safely to our line with his prisoner. Shortly after Cpl Kelley had returned [to] our line, a party of the enemy was seen to come into and down the trench toward raided post. Party estimated at 15 to 18. Several of them appeared on sides of the trench looking around apparently trying to locate the prisoner we had taken. Capt. Dougall and sentries in A Coy line immediately opened fire and six of the enemy were seen to fall and the remainder disappeared.

  27   Nothing unusual happened during the day. Two patrols covered battalion frontage during the night. No enemy being wounded or seen.   28   During the night of 27/28th we raided 2 enemy posts at approx.. N.19.a.70.80 and N.19.a.90.85.

Report No. 1 party of four bombers under Lieut. Sheridan left our trench at N.19.a.71.78, proceeded up old trench to within bombing distance of post located at N.19.73.80, there to await prearranged signal from No. 2 party for starting raid. No. 2 party of 8 Bn. scouts with 2 other parties each of 1 n.c.o. and 4 men (to be left at trench intersections) under Lieut. J.N. MacRae left our lines at N.19.a.84.99 at 11.30 pm & proceeded up old trench to intersection of trenches at N.19.a.88.79. At this point heads of two sentries were seen looking over parapet at entrance of trench. The Scout party got to within 250 feet of barrier when they were seen by sentries who immediately threw bombs which went over the raider’s heads. Lt. MacRae and Scout Sgt. F Manby rushed the barrier, the remainder of the party bombing the post and back up the trench, on climbing the barrier a German was seen dragging another back up the trench and a third running and giving alarm. Unfortunately at this moment our barrage opened up, one shell exploding on parapet in front of patrol and others dropping thickly around causing patrol to retire. Our bombing started at this post, No, party immediately bombed post at N.19.a.73.80 throwing twenty bombs into post and into trench behind, continuous screeching and groaning issued from post but No. 1 party were also prevented from following up by our barrage. Both raiding parties returned to our lines without casualty.

  29   Nothing unusual happened during the day. Bn. furnished working parties during the night. Patrols covered Bn. frontage.   30   During the night 29th/30 Bn. was relieved in front line by the 21st Canadian Bn. Our relief being completed at 2.10 am. Bn. moved into Brigade Reserve at M.16.b.80.80 to M.13.c.50.30. Relief was completed in good time without casualty.   31   Position as shown. Nothing unusual to report. 2 o.r.s wounded. Lieut. H.L. Scully wounded.

Maps

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Appendices

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

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

March 1, 1919 to 31 March 1919

Volume 43

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information Fosses I.35.75 1 Map for Reference: Namur 8 1/100,000

Battalion Training and Educational Classes as per Appendix 1. Attached. 5 O.R.s proceeded on leave this date. 1 O.R. from hospital.

2 Roman Catholic service at 09:30 in Parish Church. Battalion Church Service at 10:00 hrs. as per appendix No. 2. Attached. 4 O.R.s proceeded on and 10 O.R. returned from leave. 3 Battalion Training and Educational work as per Appendix No. 2. Attached. 3 O.R.s on leave. 1 O.R. from Hospital. 1 Officer and 6 O.R.s of the 6th Battn C.E.s who were attached to the 18th Battn. returned to their unit. 4 Battalion carried on with Training and Educational Classes as per Appendix No. 4. Attached. 4 O.R.s on leave; 3 O.R.s proceeded to 2nd Divl. M.T. Co’y., Auvelais for 2 weeks course in Motor Mechanics. 1 O.R. from hospital. 5 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 5. attached. 6 O.R.s from course in Motor Mechanics at 2nd Divl. M.T. Co’y. 6 Battalion Training and Educational Classes as per Appendix No. 6. Attached. 3 O.R.s on leave. 3 O.R.s to hospital. 7 Battalion Training and Educational work as per Appendix No. 7. attached. Battalion Pay Parade was held in the afternoon. 7 O.R.s proceeded on and Lieut. A.H. Jones returned from leave. 1 O.R. to hospital. 8 At 09:00 hrs. A Battalion Parade followed by a route March was held as per Appendix No. 8 attached. Lt. A.J.R. Craig and 6 O.R.s proceeded on leave. 1 O.R. attached to Divl. Train as loader. 3 O.R.s to hospital. 9 Battalion attended Church Services as per Appendix No. 9 attached. 2 O.R.s from leave. Lt. L.E. Boulton and 19 O.R.s to Sclayn guard. 10 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 10 attached. The “Band” Soccer team defeated the “Transport” team by the score of 1-0 on the Y.M.C.A. grounds. 2 companies paraded to the Baths in the afternoon. The 5th Bgde. Concert Party entertained the Battalion at the Cinema at Night. 18th. Band furnished the music. 2 O.R.s to hospital. 3 O.R.s proceeded on and 2 O.R.s returned from leave. 1 O.R. from duty at Divisional Train. 11 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 11 attached. 2companies and Battalion Headquarters paraded to Baths in the afternoon. At the Y.M.C.A. grounds in the afternoon “Q.M. & Tpt” soccer team defeated “D” Company’s team by a score of 2-0 and “Bn HQ” defeated “A” Company by a score of 3-1. Lt. J.T.N. Jeffery attached to Battalion as Brigade Veterinary Officer. 1 O.R. from hospital. 12 All 4th Brigade Units were Inspected by Gen. Rawlinson, C.O.C. 4th Army at 11.00 hours on 19th Battalion Parade Grounds as per appendix No. 12 attached. Capt. R.G. Elliott and Lieut. J.N. MacRae returned from leave to Italy. 13 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 13 attached. In the afternoon the following games were played on the Y.M.C.A. grounds: “HQ” defeated “A” Co’y in Baseball by he score of 13-5. “Q.M. & Tpt” defeated “B” Co’y by the score of 14-8. “Q.M. & Tpt” defeated “B” Co’y (Soccer) by the score of 14-0. Lt. W. Burns and 6 O.R.s and 9 O.R.s returned from leave. 1 O.R. to hospital. 14 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 14 attached. 3 O.R.s proceeded on leave. 1 O.R. returned from hospital. 15 Battalion Training as per Appendix No. 15 attached. At 10:30 hours the Battalion paraded to Brigade Sports which were held on the 19th Battalion Parade Grounds. In the afternoon “Q.M. & Tpt” Soccer team played “A” Co’y. The score was 2-2. 21 O.R.s proceeded to England proceeded to England for return to Canada for duty as Military Police. 16 Battalion attended Church Services as per Appendix No. 16 attached. “Q.M. & Tpt” defeated “A” Co’y in Baseball on the Y.M.C.A. Grounds by the score of 6-4. “D” Co’y defeated “B” Co’y (Indoor Baseball) score 24-16. 3 O.R.s proceeded on and 1 O.R. returned from leave. 1 O.R. attached for duty to Field Cashier 2nd Cdn. Divn. 2 O.R.s attached 4th Battn. C.E.s returned to their unit. 1 O.R. from hospital. 17 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 17 attached. In the afternoon on the Y.M.C.A. Grounds “Q.M. & Tpt” Soccer team defeated “HQ” by the score of 9-1. 1 O.R. to hospital. 3 O.R.s proceeded on and 2 O.R.s returned from leave. 18 Battalion carried on with Training and Educational Courses as per Appendix No 18 attached. Bath Parades were also held during the day. Lt-Col. L.E. Jones and 3 O.R.s returned from leave. 2 O.R.s to hospital. 19 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 19 attached. Pay Parade and Casuals Bath Parade were held in the afternoon. “HQ” Indoor Baseball team defeated “Q.M. & Tpt” in the afternoon by a score of 6-2. 3 O.R.s returned from course at 2nd Divl. M.T. Co’y. 2 O.R.s proceeded on and 3 O.R.s returned from leave. 4 O.R.s returned from duty at 4th C.I.B. Headquarters. 38 O.R.s proceeded to England for return to Canada with their dependents. 20 Inspection of Battalion by Commanding Officer was held as per Appendix No. 20 attached. The C.11. Concert Party gave a performance to the Battalion at the Cinema tonight. 4 O.R.s to hospital. 21 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 21 attached. In the afternoon “Q.M. & Tpt” Soccer team defeated “D” Co’y team by the score of 10-0, winning the Battalion Championship. 6 O.R.s returned from leave. 2 O.R.s returned from Hospital. 22 Battalion Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 22 attached. The Battalion was entertained in the evening by a Concert Party composed of three young ladies. 6 O.R.s returned from leave. 1 O.R. returned from hospital. 4 O.R.s returned from guard duty at 2nd Cdn. Div. Headquarters. 10 Officers and 150 O.R.s attended Corps Sports held at Brussels. 23 The Battalion attended Church Services as per Appendix no. 23 attached. Rev. Dr. Simons of Christs Church Cathedral, Montreal delivered the sermon, at the mornings service. 4 O.R.s returned from leave. 24 The Battalion carried on with Training and Educational Work as per Appendix No. 24 attached. “Q.M. & Tpt” personnel gave a dance in the Hotel de Ville at night. Music was proved by the Regimental Band. 2 O.R.s returned from leave. 1 O.R. returned from duty with 2nd Divl. Burial Officer. 25 Battalion Training and Educational Course as per Appendix No. 25 attached. Bath and Clothing Parades were held in the afternoon. Mr. Enos Bacon (Vocalist) entertained the Battalion in the afternoon. In the evening at the Cinema, the 13th Bde. Australian Concert Party gave an entertainment. 13 O.R.s proceeded to England for return to Canada with Dependents. 4 O.R.s to England for Police duties at Bramshott Camp pending demobilization. 1 O.R. for duty at 6th Field Ambulance. 4 O.R.s returned from leave. In connection with Demobilization Scheme, (re-grouping) the undermentioned O.R.s were despatched to Battalions and Units named below. 2 O.R.s to 6th Bn. C.E.s 3 O.R.s 25th Bn. 2 O.R.s 21st Bn. 2 O.R.s 22nd Battery 26 Battalion Training and Educational Course as per Appendix No. 26 attached. 2 O.R.s returned from leave this date. 27 Battalion Muster Parade was held in the morning as per Appendix No. 27 attached. 2 O.R.s from leave. 4 O.R.s returned from duty with Divl. Traffic Officer. 2 O.R.s re-grouped to 21st Cdn. Battalion. In connection with Demobilization Scheme (re-grouping) the following were re-grouped to us this date. 13 O.R.s from 27th Bn. 18 O.R.s from 28th Bn. 1 Officer and 18 O.R.s from 29th Bn. 1 Officer and 55 O.R.s from 31st Bn. 1 Officer and 2 O.R.s from 2nd C.E Bgde. 6 O.R.s from 4th Cdn. Fld. Amb. 1 Officer and 1 O.R. from 4th C.I.B. 28 Battalion Training and Educational Classes were carried on as per Syllabus for 26th inst. 2 O.R.s returned from course in M.M. at 2nd Divl. M.T. Co’y. 1 O.R. from duty at Div. H.Q. Lt. A.J.R. Craig and 2 O.R.s on leave. 2 O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. 1 O.R. regrouped to 21st Bn. 29 Battalion Training and Educational Classes were carried on as per Syllabus for 26th inst. 1 O.R. attached to Div. Train was re-grouped to 21st Bn. 2 O.R.s to hospital. 3 O.R.s from leave. 1 O.R. returned from duty at Y.M.C.A. 1 O.R. returned from duty at 4th C.I.B. 1 O.R. from duty at Divl. Signal Co’y. 12 O.R.s from duty at Divl. Train. 30 As per O.O.D. 276 attached, Appendix No. 28, “A” & “B” Co’ys paraded at 08:45 hrs. and marched to AUVELIAS leaving there at 12:00 hrs. for LE HARVE. R.C.s attending service in the Parish Church at 09:30 hrs. “C” & “D” attended Church Parade at 09:30 hrs. There was a voluntary service at the Cinema at 19:00 hrs. led by Dr. Day of Toronto. 1 O.R. from leave. 1 O.R. from hospital. 31 “C” and “D” Companies and Battalion Headquarters formed up in the square in front of the Hotel de Ville at 08:45 hours in Full Marching Order and moved off at 09:00 hours to Auvelais where they entrained for Le Harve at 11:00 hours together with three companies of the 19th. Canadian Battalion. The train was made up of Box Cars and each car was equipped with a stove and sufficient straw to ensure the comfort of each man. The men were furnished with Blankets and everything possible was done to make comfortable the journey. The Y.M.C.A. provided free tea at the station and had cars allotted to their use as a canteen. They also provided games and sporting goods of all kinds for the use of the men during the stops of the train. Reading matter also was provided. The Corps and Divisional Commanders were at the station for a short period before the train left. The train pulled away from the station at 12:30 hours- the first stop was made at Mons at 18:00 hours, for supper and recreation. The day was ideal as to weather conditions and the first day of the return journey to Canada found everyone in the best of spirits. Syllabus for the day attached, appendix No. 29.

War Diary

Appendices

Maps

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: March 1919 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION March 1, 1919 to 31 

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

From 1st November, 1918 to 30th November, 1918

Volume 39 With appendices 1 – 26

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information ANICHE

G.6.a.7.3

1 Map for reference: 51.A 1/40,000 VALENCIENNES 12 and NAMUR 8 1/100,000, & MARCHES 9 attached. Appendix No. 24, 25, and 26.

Battalion Training as per Syllabi attached, appendix No. 1. 9 O.R’s on leave.

2 Battalion Training as per Syllabi attached, appendix No. 2. Lieut. J.N. Mowbray & 8 O.R’s on leave. 2 O.R’s returned from leave. Lieut. J.H. Barkley and 2 O.R’s returned from Courses at 1st Army Musk. Camp. 1 O.R. on course to Cdn Corps School. 3 O.R’s returned from Rest Camp. 1 O.R. arrived as reinforcement. 14 O.R’s returned from hospital. 1 O.R. admitted to hospital. 1 Sgt. attached from C.C.R.C. as L.G. instructor. 3 Battalion Church Parade at 10.00 a.m. on Battalion Parade Ground. Anticipating a move on the 4th inst. Preparations were made in the afternoon re. loading of Lewis Guns etc. Warning order attached, appendix No. 3. 4 Battalion embussed at 17.00 hours and moved to HERIN via ABSCON – DENAIN. Lieut. R.R. Hartry and 2 O.R’s returned from Course. 1 O.R. admitted to hospital. Appendix No. 4 attached. HERIN

D.10.c.15.20.

Map 51.A.

5 Battalion resting in billets in HERIN awaiting orders to move forward. Lt.-Col. L.E. Jones on leave to U/K. Major J.S. Bell D.S.O. M.C. assumes command of the Battalion. Lieut. W. Burns arrived as reinforcement. 6 Battalion marched in heavy rain via VALENCIENNES to ST. SAULVE arriving at destination at 15.00 hours. The entire Battalion billeted in a Convent formerly used by the Germans as a Military Hospital. 12 O.R.s on leave. 2 O.R.s returned from leave. 14 O.R.s arrived as reinforcements. 1 O.R. to hospital. Appendix No. 5 attached. ST. SAULVE

E.4.d.85.95

Map 51.A.

7 Battalion moved off at 12.00 hours by march route via ONNAING to QUIEVRECHAIN arriving there about 15.00 hours. Civilians heartily welcomed and cheered the Battalion on its arrival especially when the Band formed up in front of Battalion Hdqrs and struck up the LA MARSEILLAISE. Every effort was made by the people to make things comfortable for the men. Lieut. C. Cook proceeded on Course to 1st Army Infantry School. Lieut. J.N. MacRae and 1 O.R. returned from leave. Lieut. E.G. Barrie and 13 O.R.s attached to 2nd Div. Burial Officer for duty. Appendix No. 6. QUIEVRECHAIN

I.2.c.05.75.

VALENCIENNES 12.

  8 Battalion moved off at 09.00 hours and crossed the Belgian boundary at QUIVERAIN, a village 2 kilometers further on. Battalion rested here until about 12.30 when it moved on to ELOUGES which it reached about 15.00 hours. Here again the civilians, free again after 4 years of bondage, expressed great joy on the Battalion’s arrival. The music of the Band when it played LA MARSEILLAISE and LA BRABANCONNE was drowned out by the cheering of the people who crowded the streets, dancing up and down to the tune of the music. Appendix No. 8. ELOUGES

J.2-04.85

VALENCIENNES 12.

9 The Battalion moved off in Fighting Order at dawn over jumped over the 25th Canadian Battalion between ELOUGES and WASMES and met no opposition as they moved along to FRAMERIERES where Battalion Hdqrs., was established. Rear details moved off at 10.00 hours and marched via DOUR – PETIT WASMES – PATURAGS to FRAMERIERES. The people along the route overjoyed to be free again, cheered the troops as they passed along, loading them down with flowers and victuals of all kinds. During the night the Battalion pushed forward and established a line of posts through NORCHAIN. 1 O.R. arrived as a reinforcement. 1 O.R. from hospital. CIPLY

L.2.33.97

10 At 04:00 hours the Battalion pushed forward and established posts in CIPLY and HYON meeting very little opposition. Rear Details moved up from FRAMERIERES and reached CIPLY about 10.00 hours. There was considerable scattered shelling of village and vicinity till 15.00 hours, when the enemy guns were silenced by our batteries. 4 O.Rs proceeded on leave. 3 O.R’s returned from leave. 1 O.R. retd from hospital. 10 O.R’s wounded, 1 O.R. Killed in Action. 11 At 07.25 hours a wire was received from Brigade stating that hostilities would cease at 11.00 hours that day and for the Battalion to stand fast at the line reached at that hour. The Battalion forward post at the cessation of hostilities was at Q.19.d.30.40. (Sheet 45.) A Battalion parade was held at 11.30 hours. Major Bell congratulated the Battalion on its fine work during recent operations. As an appreciation, the Maire, on behalf of the village of CIPLY, presented the Battalion with a Belgian Flag. Lieut. A.T. Fergusson and 2 O.R’s retd from leave. 1 O.R. retd from Course. 13 O.R’s retd from hospital. 1 O.R. Wounded-Gassed. 12 Battalion resting in billets at CIPLY. 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 1 O.R. retd from leave. 1 O.R. retd from hospital. 13 Training as per syllabi attached. Lieut. R.E. Rouse and 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. Appendix No. 10. 14 The Battalion was inspected by the G.O.C. 4th C.I.B. at 9.30 hours on Battalion Parade Ground. Transport was inspected 14.30 hours at Transport Lines. Lieut. E.G. Barrie and 13 O.R’s returned from Div. Burial Officer. Lieut. A.J.R. Craig and 1 O.R. returned from 4th T.M. Battery. Lieut. J.T. Taylor and 3 O.R’s arrived as reinforcements. 10 O.R’s retd from hospital. 7 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 15 Battalion training per syllabi attached. Lieut. R.R. Hartry and 6 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 2 O.R’s arrived as reinforcements. 7 O.R’s retd from hospital. Appendix No. 12. 16 Battalion training per syllabi attached. Bathe parades were held during the afternoon at Q.25 central, a large mine building near CIPLY Station. 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. Appendix No. 13. 17 Battalion Church Parade held on Bn. Parade Ground at 10.30 hours. On receipt of information that the Battalion would move on the 18th instant, all possible preparations were made. 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 3 O.R’s retd from leave. 3 O.R’s arrived as reinforcements. 8 O.R’s retd from Courses. Lieut. J.A. McMillan and 2 O.R’s admitted to hospital. VILLE-SUR-HAINE

Map – NAMUR 1/100,000. A.1.75.75

18 The Battalion moved off in Full Marching Order at 06.15 hours and marched via HYON – MONS to VILLE-SUR-HAINE arriving about 12.00 hours. This was the first days journey toward Germany as the army of occupation. 4 O.R’s on leave. 2 O.R’s retd from leave. 1 O.R. admitted to hospital. Appendix No. 14. 19 Battalion training per syllabi attached. A Dance was given by the villagers at night in the Town Hall to the members of the Battalion. The Regtl. Band provided the music. Appendix No. 15. 20 Battalion training per syllabi attached. 20 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 8 O.R’s retd from leave. 4 O.R’s admitted to hospital. 1 O.R. retd from hospital. Appendix no. 16. CHAPELLE-LES-HERLAIMONT,

Map NAMUR 8

D.1-43.66

21 Battalion moved off at 08.50 hours in Full Marching Order via HOUDING – AIMERLES – LA LOUVIER and JOLIMONT through CHAPELLE-LES-HERLAIMONT, arriving there about 15.30 hours. 14 O.R’s retd from leave. Appendix No. 17. 22 Battalion training per syllabi attached. Lt.-Col. L.E. Jones, Lieut. J.H. Barkley & 17 O.R’s retd from leave. 1 O.R. arrived as reinforcement. 1 O.R. retd from Course. Appendix No. 18. 23 During the day all possible preparations were made for the move on the 24th inst. Bathe parade held in afternoon at baths in mine buildings. 17 O.R’s admitted to hospital. 24 The Battalion moved off at 09.00 hours in Full Marching Order and marched via COURCELLES – MOTTE – RANSART – to FLEURUS arriving at 19.30 hours. 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 2 O.R’s retd from leave. 15 O.R’s admitted to hospital. 1 O.R. retd. Appendix No. 19. FLUERUS

G.1-63.80

Map – Namur 8

25 The Battalion in Full Marching Order, left FLEURUS and marched via KEUMIEE – VELAINE – and JEMAPPE to MOUSTIER (on the river SAMBRE) arriving 15.00 hours. Shortly after the arrival of the Battalion a civilian Brass Band & Bugle Band played through the streets. Lieut. C.A. Whittle and 12 O.R’s retd from leave. 9 O.R’s admitted to hospital. Appendix No. 20. MOUSTIER

I.1.-36.59

26 The Battalion rested in billets in Moustier. 5 O.R’s admitted to hospital. 1 O.R. arrived as reinforcement. 27 At 09.00 hours the Battalion moved off in Full Marching order for JAMBES via MORNONT – ST-SERVINS – and through the historic city of NAMUR, across the bridge over the MEUSE to JAMBES. The city of NAMUR was gaily decorated and the streets were filled with happy civilians and Allied repatriated prisoners of war. 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 2 O.R’s returned from leave. 1 O.R. arrived as reinforcement. 5 O.R’s admitted to hospital. Appendix No. 21. JAMBES

K.1.-45.47.

28 Battalion resting in billets in JAMBES. 3 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 4 O.R’s returned from leave. 4 O.R’s admitted to hospital. JAMBES

NAMUR 8 & MARCHE 9

1/100,000

29 The Battalion moved off at 08.00 hours for COUTISSE via VIGNERCUL – KINAUX – CAYET – STRUD and ST.BEGGE, arriving at destination about 15.00 hours. 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 2 O.R’s returned from leave. 1 O.R. admitted to hospital. Appendix No. 2. COUTISSE

B.1.-35.59.

Map – MARCHE 9

1/100,000

30 The Battalion moved off in Full Marching Order at 11.00 hours for MEAN via CHEY – EVELETTE and HAVERLANGE-VERLEE arriving at destination at 21.00 hours. 4 O.R’s proceeded on leave. 3 O.R’s returned from leave. 3 O.R’s admitted to hospital. Appendix No. 23.

War Diary

Appendices

War Diary of the 18th Battalion: November 1918 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION From 1st November, 1918 to 30th November, 1918…

[k2kid]

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…

[k2kid]

Confidential War Diary OF

18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2ND CANADIAN DIVISION

FROM 1ST November to 30th November 1917

Volume 27 With Appendicies 1 – 2

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information CAESTRE 1   Battalion in Reserve Camp. Coy parades, inspection of arms and equipment. Extra water bottle (1 per man) issued. 2 o.r. admitted to hospital.

  Map Ref Sheet #28. 1/20,000 2 10:00 AM Battalion entrained at CAESTRE and detrained at YPRES about 3 p.m. from there marching to POTITSE where supper was served on the roadside. Transport [lorries?] left at 6 a.m. came by road. (see O.O. D164.

  After supper the Battalion moved into support at Abraham Heights, relieving the 75th Battalion whose guides met the Bn. At the junction of Jill and K. trails (D.21.a.45.90) these tracks being trench mat [walks]. Relief completed at 11.40 p.m. Men were in funk holes and shelters around their respective Coy H.Q. viz A Coy H.Q. D.15.b.9.5 B Coy D.15.c.6.5 C Coy rear right D.15.b.2.5 and D Coy D.15.b.8.5. Battalion HQers being in a PILLBOX, BOATHOEK D.15.a.3.3 and R.A.P[i]. D.15.a.2.3.

    3 7.45 a.m. A priority message was received from 4th C.I.B. for help in the works of evacuating the “wounded”. Immediately 2 platoons of A Coy were sent to the 19th at HILLSIDE FARM (D.17.b.2.8) and 2 platoons B coy sent to the 21st Bn. R.A.P. at TYNE COPSE, for the evacuation of wounded from the front lines to this point, where the casualties were evacuated by the Field Ambulances Stretcher Bearers.

  Enemy shelling desultory over whole area. 1 o.r. killed in action. 2 o.r. wounded.

    4   Enemy aeroplanes very active, bombing rear area during the night. 6th C.I.B. staff reported to Bn. H.Q. to take over as Brigade H.Q.

  7 o.r. wounded.

    5   18th Battalion relieved in support of the 31st Canadian Bn. 18th Bn. Move back into reserve camp at POTIZE in the YPRES-MENIN Rd. Relief completed about 3.30 a.m. 4 offices and 250 o.r.s on fatigue grading light railway in rear of Abraham Heights, this party dispersed on instructions of R.E.[ii] Officers owing to enemy shellfire.

  POTIZE 6   Battalion furnishing fatigue parties burying cable, grading for the Railway, and carrying material to forward points (see map). The weather conditions making these fatigues very hard, mud being waist deep in places.

  I o.r. Killed in Action. 6 o.r. wounded.

    7 From 8.30 a.m. to 11.15 a.m. 4 Officers and 180 o.r. of A + B Coys dug 150 yards of ditch on both sides of road running from D.14.d.4.3 to D.14.d.6.1 ditch being 6’ wide and 3’ deep.[iii] Relief 8   During night of 8th/9th 18th Battalion took over front line between D.12.b.45.90 and D.6.b.65.35. relieving portions of the 22nd Canadian Bn. and 25th Canadian Bn. For disposition and location see operational order #167 (attached). Capt. W.J. GANDER and Lieut. H.B. JOHNSON, M.C. being wounded. Lieut. W.S. CALDWELL admitted to hospital GASSED.

    9   Position as show on Operation Order #167. Owing to bad weather and the continual shelling by the enemy the front line and supports were in poor condition, the mud + water in many places being waist deep.

  D.12.b.45.90 and D.6.b.65.35 9th/10th/11th/12th   During the whole of this tour the Officers and men held this part of the line under the most severe conditions possible. Great difficulty was experienced in the evacuating of casualties from the front line to R.A.P.s and dressing stations. Front line trenches were subjected to frequent barrages and the rear country [area] was also heavily shelled and bombed. The supports on this front were reached by a series of tracks, being trench mat walks, and rations had to be carried by mules up these tracks. Each track being subjected to continual shellfire, the transport and ration parties where fortunate in escaping with the loss of 3 men killed and 1 mule which fell off the duckboard track and owing to the depth of the mud had to be shot. Splendid work was done by the Battalion Stretcher bearers in tending and evacuating the wounded.

  Night 12th/13th   During the night of 12/13th Battalion was relieved in the Front line by the 87th Canadian Bn. relief being completed by 6 a.m. 13th. 18th Battalion commenced arrival at POTIZE CAMP at 8 a.m. after resting proceeded to YPRES and entrained at 11.30 a.m.

  The total casualties for this tour approximately being: Killed in action  45 other ranks. Wounded           6 Officers 60 other ranks. Gassed                1 “              25      “

  The Officers being

Capt W.J. Gander Capt V.M. Eastwood M.C. Lieut. J.N. Mowbray

  “       E.L. Hankinson Lieut. J.F. Perkins

 “        H.L. Mitchell “        W.S. Caldwell (gassed)

  MOVE 13 11:30 a.m. Battalion entrained at YPRES and detrained at BRANDHOEK siding about 12 noon, from there marched to TORONTO CAMP. Transport moving by road at 10 a.m.

  TORONTO CAMP 14   Battalion in huts at TORONTO CAMP. Muster parade held during morning. Battalion resting and cleaning up during afternoon. 8 o.r. admitted to hospital.

    15 8 AM

10

AM

Battalion marched to embossing paint near OUDEROM and then proceeded by bus to ROBECQ via Ouderdom, Renmghelst, La Clytte, Bailleul, Hazebrouch, St. Venant arriving at Robecq about 3 pm. Battalion billeted in buildings on outskirts of village.

    16 9.30 Battalion moved from ROBECQ to AUCHEL via LILLERS in motor lorries arriving at destination about noon.

    17 10 AM Battalion again proceeding by motor lorries to VILLERS AU BOIS arriving about 2.30 pm + being billeted in VILLERS CAMP. 4 o.rs. admitted to hospital.

  VILLERS AU BOIS 18 9.45 AM

11 am

Battalion parade for Divine Service. 11 a.m.

  Coy parades for inspection of kit + equipment.

    19 9 am Battalion pay parades occupied the whole of the day. 30 ors. Attached to the 182 Tunneling Coy R.E.s.

    20 9 am Company parades and training in Bayonet fighting and platoons in attach. Lieuts J.N. MACRAE and E.L. ADDY and 56 o.r.s arrived as reinforcements.

    21   Parades and Training as yesterday. 22 ors. arrived as reinforcements. 26 ors. rejoined from Base hospitals.

    22   Entry Missing

    23   Battalion parades and instruction as per syllabus attached.

    24   Parades as per syllabus attached. 30 ors arrived as reinforcements. 18 ors (casualties) rejoined. Lieuts C.J. Jackson, T.V. MILLFORD[iv], M.R. SLOAN and W.H.J. KRIETZER arrived as reinforcements.

    25 12 noon Battalion parade for Divine Service. 6 ors admitted to hospital. Lieut. C.E. Oglesby rejoined from hospital.

  VILLERS-AU-BOIS 26   Company parade and inspections by Coy Commanders. Training in Bayonet fighting and attack. 2 ors. admitted to hospital.

  “ 27   Parades as yesterday, Lieuts. R.E. LAWRANCE and L.E. BOULTON arrived as reinforcements.

  Sheet Maroeull 1/20,000 A.3.c.49.7 28   Battalion moved by light railway to Cellars Camp, Neuville St. Vast. (see operational order attached).   29   Battalion relieved the 21st Battalion in support at Vancouver Rd. Nothing unusual occurred, relief being completed without casualty. H.Q. T.28.a.40.20

    30   Battalion in support in Vancouver Road. Situation quiet. Major J.J. Richardson, D.S.O. rejoined battalion from England. 5 ors admitted to hospital.

  [i] Regimental Aid Post: The first place of care for the wounded.

[ii] Royal Engineers.

[iii] That is 300 cubic yards of earth. Dry earth weighs approximately 2,200 pounds PER cubic yard. The total weight of earth moved in this endeavor was approximately (and likely more as the earth was wet) 660,000 pounds. Or 3,667 pounds of earth per man.

[iv] Thayer Vincent Milford.

  War Diary of the 18th Battalion: November 1917 Confidential War Diary OF 18th CANADIAN BATTALION - 2ND CANADIAN DIVISION FROM 1ST November to 30th November 1917…