#18th Canadian Infantry Battalion

[amarriageoftrueminds]

If The Howlies were real...

I've been thinking about Steve's time during the war, and wondering if anyone has any headcanons about, eg. where he was stationed, how exactly the Howling Commando mission planning went, etc?

In the comics, Steve isn't assigned to the 107 but to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division (aka the ‘Big Red One’.)

They were part of D-Day landings, on Omaha Beach.

In deleted scenes / clips from the Smithsonian, it’s implied that Steve was also a part of D-Day: 

(That’s General Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander.)

(These landing craft 👆 were only used at D-Day. Although it’s possible this is propaganda footage of a rehearsal.)

If the Howlies had the same set up as the 26th, then Steve and the guys would’ve been stationed in Swanage, Dorset:

(Members of ‘A’ Company 26th Infantry Regiment US Army, billeted at Craigside in the High Street opposite Purbeck House Hotel, Swanage, around 1943 – 44.)

That’s 114 miles south west of Camp Griffiss in Bushy Park, Teddington, where General Eisenhower had his SHAEF HQ, starting from January 1944

(before that his HQ was at No.20 Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, in London -- aka ‘Little America’ or ‘Eisenhower Platz’ -- a couple of miles northwest of Churchill’s War Rooms, which inspired the underground bunker HQ seen in CATFA.)

Thousands of American troops, including the 26th Infantry, started arriving in Dorset in November 1943 -- which is also when Steve arrived in England after rescuing the 107!

While in Dorset, the US troops were largely engaged in rehearsing for Operation Overlord, aka D-Day. 

One such rehearsal was the disastrous Operation Smash, on the 18th April, 1944, which was a live-ammunition practice for beach landings at Normandy. (Disastrous because six men accidentally drowned when their Valentine semi-submersible tank... sank.)

Operation Smash was staged in Studland Bay (that’s 4.5 miles north of Swanage). Present to observe were: Winston Churchill, King George VI, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery, and Acting Admiral Louis Mountbatten. They did so from ‘Fort Henry,’ a 90 foot long bunker (built and named by Canadian engineers in 1943 -- so it would’ve been there by the time Steve n’ Co got there -- and it’s still there today!) overlooking the bay. 

The US troops moved on from Swanage in late April 1944, and departed England entirely (from nearby places like Weymouth, Poole Quay, Portland Harbour, etc.) on 5th June 1944. D-Day was on the 6th.

In the deleted scene from Avengers, Steve is clearly shown crossing  the Ludendorff Bridge:

...But this is impossible!

Because that bridge (at Remagen) was only captured on the 7th of March 1945:

(9th Armored Division in Remagen, Germany, recorded 9th March, 1945).

...and Steve had already crashed the Valkyrie 6 days prior!

(So unless that bridge was captured earlier, possibly because of Steve n’ Co., that footage can’t be right! 

CATFA does have a habit of putting the US Army in places they had no business being yet at that time of the war -- i.e. showing the US Army right up at the North of Italy, when in reality the Nazis still held it. 

(In fact, Mussolini’s Nazi puppet republic, the Republic of Salò, was nicknamed after a lake in Brescia... which is 200-ish miles further south than the US Army are shown in November ‘43.)

So I guess it’s possible that Steve & Co really were in Remagen, Germany, and crossing the Ludendorff Bridge before March ‘45! 

Or (perhaps more likely) we’re supposed to read it as some generic bridge in Western Europe, captured on D-Day (a la Pegasus bridge). 

.

Where exactly the Hydra factories were (and thus most Howlie missions) is not categorically stated. However, what Steve says / taking rough guesses from the map we see in Krausberg...

...it looks like the Howlies would’ve had missions in: Italy, France, (then) Czechoslovakia, Poland, and... Greece. 

(The script also mentions Belgium and Russia, which are neither shown on the map nor mentioned. However, there is a shot of them creeping through snowy forests, which looks very much like the Ardennes. That might put them in Belgium as part of the Battle of the Bulge -- which in turn gives us a date that could be the ‘difficult winter’ mentioned in the Smithsonian footage.)

If the Howlies were an active team from say 14th November 1943 -- 1st March 1945 (when Steve went down in the Valkyrie) 

That’s 473 days / or 1 year, 3 months, 15 days / or 15 months, 15 days.

If they had 9 missions total during that time...

6 Hydra factories around Europe

+ 1 winter mission to save over a 1000 men (as mentioned in Smithsonian; could be Battle of the Bulge? 🤔)

+ 1 D-Day mission (possibly including amphibious landings &/or bridge captures)

+ 1 Zola-capture mission, probably somewhere in the Alps. 

+ 1 Valkyrie mission makes 10. 

...That would give them 52.5 days (less than two months) to both plan, travel in and out, and execute each mission. That seems like a pretty tight turnaround, especially if each factory was different enough to warrant a new/fresh plan. 

(One difficulty never mentioned because their raids are relegated to a montage: the fact that Hydra factories appear to be staffed by slave labour. Means the Howlies can’t just bust in guns blazing! Or, at least, I don’t think Steve would stand for it. They’d have to free the workers first, and hopefully they’d be workers both physically capable and willing to join in the fight.)

In the film, they are never shown being back in the UK between these missions,  right up until the last Valkyrie mission in 1945, and dialogue seems to suggest there hasn’t been any personal contact between them and the HQ staff in between. 

(It does seem a bit nuts to be shipping them out and back every time, rather than just keeping them on the continent. Also nuts to be planning their most important Valkyrie mission only the day before. But anyway...) 

In order to take part in D-Day, they had to have been back to England at least once, to receive those highly classified orders and to rehearse (can’t be discussing details of D-Day over radio!) 

Also, they couldn’t have been allowed to go haring off attacking Hydra bases any old where, because it might have been inconvenient for D-Day (ie. if the Nazis increased defenses in certain places just because Captain America had been sighted there recently.)

TPTB could have used the Howlies as a diversion, sending them on dummy missions designed to make the Nazis think D-Day is going to happen somewhere else. I think Greece and Italy would be a great way to convince the Nazis that an invasion will be coming from the south, not the north! They could even have used doubles of the Howlies to throw the Nazis off the scent, as part of the Ghost Army (they did this IRL with Bernard Montgomery!) 

Maybe the SSR would be advised to keep the Howlies’ real missions as far away from Normandy as possible, earlier on, and then the reverse right before D-Day? (ie. damage Hydra’s factories that are nearest to Normandy, close to D-Day, so that they can’t supply weapons and don’t have enough time to rebuild).

Other possibilities: 

If they were not stationed in the UK between missions, and weren’t with the US Army of occupation (because it hadn’t invaded that part of Europe yet) Steve & Co. might have been living undercover in Nazi-occupied territory in the run up to missions against local Hydra bases (in, eg. France and Poland. Chance for Frenchy to get his Maquis on!) Very dangerous, very nerve-wracking, very Inglourious Basterds of them. Also potentially very dangerous for the locals, too, since there would surely be reprisals against them after any successful anti-Hydra attack by Howlies. 

IRL There was a concentration camp called Terezin in Czechoslovakia, near-ish where that one Hydra base is shown. (It’s the one that the Nazis famously filmed a propaganda movie in, after cleaning it up and deporting a bunch of people to Auschwitz to seemingly reduce overcrowded living conditions, to fool the visiting Red Cross.) So Steve and the Howlies might have gone off-mission to go and liberate that; could be that was a source of slave labour for the nearby Hydra factory.  (From a character POV, Terezin was known for having a big artistic culture among the inmates, and surely Steve would feel empathy for those used in propaganda, having been made to do that himself.)

Logically speaking, I would’ve expected that last Hydra base to be in Holland or Denmark -- not Greece -- to complete the ring of bases formed around Germany. 🤔 Maybe even more likely to be Denmark, since the Tesseract (which kicked off the whole Hydra supremacy thing) was discovered in Tønsberg, SE Norway.

[k2kid]

4TH CANADIAN INFANTRY BRIGADE NARRATIVE OF OPERATIONS. SOUTH OF SCARPE 26TH, 27TH, AND 28TH AUGUST, 1918.

4TH CANADIAN INFANTRY BRIGADE NARRATIVE OF OPERATIONS. SOUTH OF SCARPE 26TH, 27TH, AND 28TH AUGUST, 1918.

[greatworldwar2]

• D-Day: Sword Beach

Sword, commonly known as Sword Beach, was the code name given to one of the five main landing areas along the Normandy coast during the initial assault phase, of Operation Overlord, the Allied invasion of German-occupied France that commenced on June 6th, 1944.

Following the Fall of France in 1940, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill vowed to return to continental Europe and liberate the Nazi German-occupied nations. The Western Allies agreed to open a Second Front in northern Europe in 1942 to aid the Soviet Union. However, with resources for an invasion lacking, it was postponed. The decision to postpone the invasion was due to wanting to see the Battle of the Atlantic to its closure, the lack of landing craft, invading Sicily in July 1943, and Italy in September following the defeat of Axis forces in North Africa in May 1943 resulted in the postponement of any assault on northern Europe till 1944.

Having succeeded in opening up an offensive front in southern Europe, gaining valuable experience in amphibious assaults and inland fighting, Allied planners returned to the plans to invade Northern France. Now scheduled for June 5th, 1944, the beaches of Normandy were selected as landing sites, with a zone of operations extending from the Cotentin Peninsula to Caen. Operation Overlord called for the British Second Army to assault between the River Orne and Port en Bessin, capture the German-occupied city of Caen and form a front line from Caumont-l'Éventé to the south-east of Caen, in order to acquire airfields and protect the left flank of the United States First Army while it captured Cherbourg. Overlord would constitute the largest amphibious operation in military history. After delays, due to both logistical difficulties and poor weather, the D-Day of Overlord was moved to June 6th, 1944.

The coastline of Normandy was divided into seventeen sectors, with codenames using a spelling alphabet, from Able, west of Omaha, to Roger on the east flank of Sword. Eight further sectors were added when the invasion was extended to include Utah on the Cotentin Peninsula. The Anglo-Canadian assault landings on D-Day were to be carried out by the British Second Army, under Lieutenant General Miles Dempsey. The Second Army's I Corps, commanded by Lieutenant General John Crocker, was assigned to take Sword. 6th Beach Group was deployed to assist the troops and landing craft landing on Sword and to develop the beach maintenance area. Sword stretched about 5 miles (8.0 km) from Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer in the west to the mouth of the River Orne in the east. It was further sub-divided into four landing sectors; from west to east these sectors were 'Oboe' (from Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer to Luc-sur-Mer), 'Peter' (from Luc-sur-Mer to Lion-sur-Mer), 'Queen' (from Lion-sur-Mer to La Brèche d'Hermanville), and finally 'Roger' (from La Brèche d'Hermanville to Ouistreham).

The sector chosen for the assault was the 1.8 miles (2.9 km) wide 'White' and 'Red' beaches of 'Queen' sector, as shallow reefs blocked access to the other sectors. Two infantry battalions supported by DD tanks would lead the assault followed up by the commandos and the rest of the division; the landing was due to start at 07:25 hours; the division would be the last assault division to land. Under the command of Field Marshals Erwin Rommel and Gerd von Rundstedt, the defences of the Atlantic Wall were heavily upgraded; in the first six months of 1944, 1.2 million tons of steel and 17.3 million cubic yards of concrete were laid. The coast of northern France was also studded with four million antitank and anti-personnel mines, and 500,000 beach obstacles. On and behind Sword, twenty strongpoints, including several artillery batteries, were constructed. The coastline was littered with wooden stakes, mines, hedgehogs, and Dragon’s teeth, while along the top of the beach, the Germans had constructed a network of trenches, gun pits, mortar pits, and machine gun nests. Barbed wire surrounded these positions and lined the beach.

The assault on Sword began at about 03:00 with the aerial and naval bombardment of German coastal defences and artillery sites. The landing was to be concentrated on Queen Red and Queen White in front of Hermanville-sur-Mer, other approaches having proven impassable due to shoals. At 07:25, the first units set off for the beach. These were the amphibious DD tanks of the 13th/18th Hussars; they were followed closely by the 8th Infantry Brigade, and by Royal Engineers in AVREs. The engineers set to work clearing mines and obstacles under a steady hail of small arms fire and artillery fire from Périers Ridge just south of Hermanville. Resistance on the beach was initially fairly strong, with wrecked vehicles piling up and casualties mounting; however, with most of their armoured vehicles successfully landed, the British were able to quickly secure the immediate area. By 09:30 the engineers had cleared seven of the eight exits from the beach, allowing the inland advance to begin.

British and French commandos encountered tough resistance in the seaside town of Ouistreham, on Sword's eastern extremity, but were able to clear it of enemy strongpoints. By 13:00, the 1st Special Service Brigade had reached the bridges on the River Orne and the Caen Canal, linking up with paratroops of the 6th Airborne Division, who were holding the bridges, after earlier disabling German gun batteries in a fierce night-time battle earlier. On the western flank of Sword, commandos of the 4th Special Service Brigade moved out to secure Lion-sur-Mer and effect a link up with Canadian forces at Juno Beach, but encountered strong resistance and were pinned down by heavy fire for several hours. Meanwhile, around the main landing area, the men of the 3rd Infantry Division had secured Hermanville-sur-Mer by 10:00, but were finding tougher going as they slowly fought their way up Périers Ridge and moved inland. It was gradually becoming apparent that the British would not be able to make the hook-up with the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division necessary to protect its right flank in an immediate assault on Caen. Troops of the King's Shropshire Light Infantry continued down the Hermanville-Caen road, reaching Biéville-Beuville, close to Caen, but were supported by only a few self-propelled guns, their flanks exposed.

The 21st Panzer Division, with its formidable inventory of some 127 Panzer IV tanks, was intended for use as a rapid response force; on the morning of June 6th, however, its commander, Generalmajor Edgar Feuchtinger, was in Paris, and Rommel was in Germany. The division was unable to finalize orders and preparations for a counterattack until late in the day. At about 17:00, two thrusts were launched, east and west of the River Orne. Taking advantage of the gap between the Sword and Juno sectors, elements of the 192nd Panzergrenadier Regiment were able to reach the coast at Lion-sur-Mer by 8:00 p.m.; however, with few flak units and very little support from the Luftwaffe, they too suffered devastating losses to Allied aircraft. When 250 Gliders of the British 6th Airlanding Brigade overflew their positions, on their way to reinforce the Orne bridgehead in Operation Mallard, the Germans, believing they were about to be cut off, retired.

By the end of D-Day, 28,845 men of I Corps had come ashore across Sword. British losses in the Sword area amounted to 683 men. The British and Canadians were able to link up and resume the drive on Caen the following day, but three days into the invasion, the advance was halted. On June 7th, Operation Perch, a pincer attack by the 51st (Highland) Infantry Division and XXX Corps was launched to encircle Caen from the east and west flanks. The 21st Panzer Division halted the 51st Division advance and the XXX Corps attack resulted in the Battle of Villers-Bocage and the withdrawal of the leading elements of the 7th Armoured Division.

[rcmilitaryhistorytoday-blog]

On this day, 13th Sept 1759, The  Battle of the Plains of Abraham: Wolfe defeats Montcalm, to secure Canada for Britain.

A Soldier's Account of the Campaign on Quebec, 1759 Edited by Robert Henderson

Written by the Sergeant Major of the 40th Regiment’s Grenadiers (part of the Louisbourg Grenadiers), A Journal of the Expedition up the River St. Lawrence was published as a pamphlet in Boston in November 1759. Not only was it the first account to be published on the siege of Quebec , but is one of the few works by a member of the other ranks. While it lacks the flare of officer’s account, it does present one of the best records of the day to day movements of the part of Wolfe’s Army, namely the Louisbourg Grenadiers. The Louisbourg Grenadiers themselves were made up of the Grenadier Companies of the 22nd, 40th, and 45th Regiments who had been left to garrison Louisbourg, captured the year earlier. General James Wolfe, while forming his expedition against Quebec at Louisbourg, personally oversaw the training of the Louisbourg Grenadiers in the "New Exercise", which was an improved infantry drill. As fate would have it, on September 13th , 1759 on the Plains of Abraham, Wolfe would fall mortally wounded next to the Louisbourg Grenadiers. A few days later, Quebec surrendered and the duty fell upon the Louisbourg Grenadiers to form the honour guard and first to enter the walls of Quebec. In his account, the Sergeant Major skips a day around the time of the battle of the Plains and records it incorrectly as occurring on the 14th of September.

"A Journal of the Expedition up the River St. Lawrence;

Containing

A True and Particular Account of the Transactions of the Fleet and Army, From the Time of Their Embarkation at Louisbourg ‘Til After the Surrender of Quebec

by the Serjeant-Major of Gen. Hopson’s Grenadiers

Louisbourg, June 1st, 1759

We embark’d on board the Transport Harwood, bound on the Expedition to Canada ...

The 4th Day we set Sail for the River St. Lawerance, which we made on the 9th Day, and there we lay 'til the 16th, before we got into the River; which is very wide and Mountainous. For about forty Leagues up the River the Depth of Water is 100 Fathoms. The 16th Day we came into seventeen fathom Water; and on the 23rd we join'd Admiral Durell, who had 7 Sail of the Line, with some Frigates with him, which lay as a Guard to Protect the River, at a Place call'd the Island of Coudre… This island is pleasantly situated, lies partly high, and was very well peopled before we came up : - And passing this Island about a League up, we anchor'd, and two of our Boats went in Shore and was attack'd by a small Party of Canadians and Indians, and was obliged to retreat to their Ships.

The 25th we made the out End of the Island of Orleans, and on the 27th we landed on it without the loss of a Man. A small Party of Rangers were almost surrounded by a large Party of Indians; but the Rangers rush'd through them with the Loss of only one Man; what damage the Enemy sustain'd is uncertain.

On the 29th the French sent five Fire Ships down among our Fleet; but, thank God, they did no Damage. The same Day we marched about 6 miles, under the Command of Col. Carlton, and encamped that same Night in Sight of the French Army, and likewise in Sight of the Town – Gen. Monckton’s Brigade and a party of Rangers landed on the South Side; we had a small Attack, by which we had 3 kill'd, 2 wounded and 4 taken Prisoners.

July 1st, the Enemy came against our Detachment on the South-side of the River with floating Batteries; but our Shipping soon drove them off ; --the Damage they suffer'd is not known. Same Day the Louisbourg Grenadiers went a Foraging; we had two kill'd and scalp'd belonging to the 22d Regiment. The same Day we marched to the West End of the Island, in order to join the Louisbourg Battalion. A Party of the Enemy fired out of the woods, and wounded two men.

July the 5th, a Barge between the Island and the main Land, to sound the Depth of Water: The French fir’d four Cannon-Shot at her, and came down on a large Bar of Sand, from whence they fir'd small arms; also five Canoes came down the River, loaded with Indians, who took the Barge, made one Man prisoner, and wounded another belonging to the 22d Regiment. On the same Day their floating Batteries attack'd our Shipping but was soon obliged to quit their Firing. --Gen. Monckton opened a small Battery upon the South Side; The first Day they canonaded and bombarded on both Sides; but lost never a Man.

The 8th, we landed on Quebeck-Shore, without any Interception, and marched up the River about two miles; when the Louisbourg Grenadiers being order'd out to get Fascines, they had scarce set down to take a small Refreshment, and detach’d a small Party of Rangers to guard the Skirts of the Wood, before a large Party of Indians surrounded them, kill'd and scalp'd 13, wounded the Captain-Lieutenant and 9 Privates; they likewise kill'd and wounded 14 of the Royal Americans, wounded 2 of the 22d and one of the 40th Regiment : we got only 3 Prisoners, and kill'd 2 of the Savages.

The third Day our Shipping was drove off by the Enemy's Shells. - We got only some few Prisoners, 'til the 12th Day, when the French built a Battery against us, but had not Time to mount any Guns on it; for we soon demolish'd it with our Field-Pieces and Hawitzers. The fourteenth Day their floating Batteries came out after our Boats, but we soon drove them back again. -The 16th, we set the Town on Fire, about 12 O'clock, which continued burning all that Day.

On the 17th we went out a Fascining, and to make Oars, with a small Party to cover us; --5 were kill'd of which 4 were scalp'd, and we was oblig'd to quit the Wood directly ; the Indians came up very close, and kill’d and scalp'd one Man close by us; the Grenadiers of the 45th Regiment fir’d upon them, and I saw one drop; but the Indians took him off in a minute. We had 5 kill'd, belonging to the 35th Regiment, and one dangerousIy wounded; the 15th Reg. had one wounded very bad; but our People returning upon them, made them fly so fast that they were oblig’d to leave their Blankets and Match-coats, with several other Things, behind them; but we could not get one of them Prisoners. A Deserter came to us, from whom we had an imperfect Account of their Forces; which, however, gave us some Encouragement.

July 18th, the Deserter went out with our Light-Infantry, to show them a Place where to cross the Falls; the Indians fir'd on them, but hurt none: Likewise the same Night some of our Shipping pass’d the Town, and one run ashore on the South Side of the River. The 19th Day the floating Batteries came out to attack Our Shipping round the Harbour; but our Batteries on the Land-Side drove them off, so that the Shipping receiv'd but two Shot. On the 20th an accident happen'd in the Light-Infantry's Camp; a Man sitting in his Tent, with his Firelock by him, taking hold of the Muzzle to pull it towards him, it went off and wounded him in the Thigh so that he died the same Night.

The 21st Day of July all the Grenadiers cross'd over to the Island of Orleans; the Indians attack’d us very smartly, as we was marching to the Water-Side.--Same Day the Enemy open'd two batteries on us, which raked our Camps. Our Troops, with Seamen, stormed a Battery on the S. Side, spiked the Cannon, broke the Mortars, broke into their Magazine, took all their powder, and threw all the Shot and Shells into the Water.

July 22d we set the Town on Fire, which burnt all the next Day: Some of our Shipping went to pass the Town ; but they fir'd so hot, that they were oblig’d to turn back.

The 23d 300 Provincials landed on the Island of Orleans, which was some Reinforcement.

July 25th, the Louisbourg Battalion and three more Companies of Grenadiers, with 3 Companies of Light-Infantry, went round the Island of Orleans. -- The 27th we arrived at our Camp; and we receiv'd News That our Forces on Montmorancy Side had been attack'd the Day before, and likewise got the Better of the Enemy ; we had an Account that we kill'd 300 of them, but the Number of wounded none of us could tell: Our loss was 5 Officers and 32 Privates, 12 of whom were kill'd and the rest wounded. The same Day we went to get our Plunder, which we discovered on our march round the Island, consisting of Gowns, Shirts, Petticoats, Stockings, Coats and Waistcoats, Breeches, Shoes, and many other Articles too tedious to mention and some Cash ; which, if the Things had been sold to the Value, would have fetch'd upwards of 500 l. Sterl. The same Night the French sent five Fire-Floats down, which made great Confusion among our Fleet; but the Men of War sent their Boats and tow'd them ashore, where they burnt out without further Damage.

July 29, Otway’s and Hopson’s Grenadiers went on board the Three-Sisters, Witmore’s and Warburton’s on board the Russell, the rest in flat-bottom Boats and other Vessels, with a full Intent to land on a Part of the French Shore; so as by that Means we might come at the Town :

The First Push we made was on the 31st of July: with 13 Companies of Grenadiers, supported by about 5 Thousand Battalion-men;-- as soon as we landed we fixed our Bayonets and beat our Grenadier's-March, and so advanced on ; during all this Time their Cannon play'd very briskly on us; but their Small-Arms, in their Trenches, lay cool 'till they were sure of their Mark; then they pour 'd their Small-Shot like Showers of Hail, which caus'd our brave Grenadiers to fall very fast: Brave Gen. Wolfe saw that our attempts were in vain, so he retreated to his Boats again: The number of kill'd and wounded that Day was about 400 Men; - in our Retreat we burnt the two Ships, which we had ran ashore on that side to cover our Landing.

The 3d Day of August a Party of Capt. Danks's Rangers went from the Island of Orleans to Quebec Side, a little down the River; they were attack'd by a Party of French, and was smartly engag'd for the Space of half an Hour; but the Rangers put them to flight, kill'd several and took one Prisoner: The Rangers lost one Lieutenant, who died of his Wounds soon after, and 2 or 3 others. They got a great deal of Plunder.

Aug 4th the French made an Attempt of crossing the Falls; but our Train fir'd Hawits and Cohorns so fast, that they were oblig'd to retreat without accomplishing any Thing;----what Damage was done them I know not.

On the 6th a Victualing Ship sail'd from our Fleet, and went below the Falls, the French hove Shot and Shells in great Number at them; but did them no Harm.

The 8th of Aug. two Centinels being at the Falls, they took an Indian and bro't him Prisoner to the General, who sent him on board the Admiral. At 12o'Clock at Night we threw a Carcass and one Shell on the Enemy's Battery of 9 Guns, which blew up their Magazine, Platforms, and burnt with such Violence that some of the Garrison were oblig'd to get into Boats to save themselves from the Flames. The 9th Day we set the Town on Fire, being the 3d Time.

On the 10th the French floated a Thing down in the Form of a Floating-Battery; one of our Ships sent out a Boat to see what it was, and just as the Seamen were going to jump on board, it blew up and kill'd one midshipman and wounded four Sailors…….The same day about 30 Sailors went a Plundering on the South-side of the River, and as they were about their Prey, they was surpriz'd by a Party of Indians and drove off; but they all got safe to their Boats, tho' not without the Loss of their Plunder.

The 11th Instant there was an Engagement between our Scouting-Parties and the Indians, Our People drove them off, we had a great Number wounded, several very badly, but the most slightly; there was but few kill'd: There was one of the 35th Reg. told me, he saw an Indian who fir'd at him, but miss'd him; that he levelled his Piece and fir'd at the Indian and miss'd him likewise; upon which the Indian immediately threw his Tommahawk at him and miss'd him; whereupon the Soldier, catching up the Tommahawk, threw it at the Indian and levell’d him, and then went to scalp him; but 2 other Indians came behind him, and one of them stuck a Tommahawk in his Back ; but did not wound him so much as to prevent his Escape from them.

The 12th Day We had an Account of General Murray's going to land above the Town--He made all Attempt to land twice and was beat off; he made the third Attempt, and landed at the South-Shore with the Loss of about 100 kill'd and wounded. The same Day we had an Account from the Enemy, That Gen. Amherst's Army was taken very badly and that they were oblig 'd to turn back again.

On the 13th we had an Account by one of the French Gunners, who deserted to us that Night, That the enemy had very little provisions; he likewise gave an Account what a Body of French and Indians came over the Falls, the same Side that our Army was on, and that they had four Days Provisions with them, and remain'd there still.

The 14th a Sailor belonging to the Dublin Man of War, endeavour'd to swim over to the French, over the River; but the Current ran so strong, that he was driven on Shore on the Island-Side and was taken up by one of Hopson's Grenadiers and carried to their Quarter-Guard, from whence he was carried on board his own Ship again, stark naked.

The 15th of Aug. Captain Gorham returned from an Incursion, in which Service were employ 'd, under his Command, 150 Rangers, a Detachment from the different Regiments, Highlanders, Marines, &c. amounting in the whole to about 300, an arm'd Vessel, three Transports, with a Lieutenant and Seamen of the Navy to attend him, of which Expedition they gave the following Account:

"That on the 4th of August they proceeded down to St. Paul’s Bay, (which is opposite to the North Side of this Island) where was a Parish containing about 200 men, who had been very active in distressing our Boats and Shipping --At 3 o 'Clock in the Morning Capt. Gorham landed and forced two of their Guards; of 20 Men each, who fired smartly for Some Time; but that in two Hours they drove them all from their Covering in the Wood, and clear'd the Village which they burnt, consisting of about 50 fine Houses and Barns; destroy'd most of their Cattle, &c. That in this one Man was kill'd and 6 wounded ; but that the Enemy had two kill'd, and several wounded, who were carried off.— That from thence they proceeded to Mal Bay, 10 Leagues to the Eastward on the same Side, where they destroyed a very pretty Parish, drove off the Inhabitants and Stock without any Loss; after which, they made a Descent on the South Shore, opposite the Island of Coudre, destroyed Part of the Parish of St. Ann's and St. Roan, where were very handsome Houses with Farms, and loaded the Vessels with Cattle; after which they returned from their Expedition."

The same Day 1 of our Schooners went from the Fleet below the Fall, and the French fir'd 8 or 9 Shot at her; but miss'd her. This Day a Party of young Highlanders came to the Island of Orleans from Gen. Monckton’s Encampment; on Purpose to destroy all the Canaada-Side.-- The same Day our People set one of the Enemy's Floating-Batteries on Fire; --and in the Night General Monckton set the Town on Fire, (being the 4th Time) and the Flames raged so violently, that 'twas imagin'd the whole City would have been reduc'd to Ashes.

August 18th, a Sloop and Schooner went below the Falls ; the French hove Shot and Shells at them, but did 'em no Damage. The same Day the Enemy hove a Bomb from the Town, which kill'd one Man and wounded 6 more,--one Man had his Arm cut off by a Piece of the same Shell.

On the 20th the Louisbourg Grenadiers began their March down the main Land of Quebeck, in order to burn and destroy all the Houses on that Side---- On the 24th they were attack’d by a Party of French, who had a Priest for their Commander; but our Party kill'd and scalp'd 31 of them, and likewise the Priest, their Commander ; They did our People no Damage. The three Companies of Louisbourg Grenadiers halted about 4 Miles down the River, at a Church called the Guardian-Angel, where we were order'd to fortify ourselves till further Orders; we had several small Parties in Houses, and the Remainder continued in the Church.----The 25th , began to destroy the Country, burning Houses, cutting down Corn, and the like: At Night the Indians fired several scattering Shot at the Houses, which kill'd one of the Highlanders and wounded another ; but they were soon repulsed by the Heat of our Firing. --It was said that the Number of the Enemy consisted of 800 Canadians and Indians. Sept 1st we set Fire to our Houses and Fortifications, and marched to join the Grand Army at Montmorancy; the 3 Companies of Grenadiers ordered to hold themselves in Readiness to march at a Minute's Warning.

The 26th a Serjeant of the 35th Regiment deserted across the Fall, and our people fir'd several Grape-Shots after him; notwithstanding which he got clear off to the Enemy.

The 27th of August some of our Shipping went past the Town, which fir'd so hot at them with Shots and Bombs, that one would have thought Vessel to pass ; but they receiv'd little or no Damage. The 29th, 5 Sail went to pass the Town, up the River; the Town fir'd very warm all the Time of their passing, and I was very well informed, That only 15 of their Shot took Place out of all their Firing; Likewise the 30th Instant four of our Ships pass'd the Town, where they kept a continual Firing ; but did us very little Damage.

Sept. 1. all the Sick and Women that was on Montmorancy-Side, came over to the Island of Orleans; on the 2d Intant a a large Body of Wolfe’s Troops came over, with the Louisbourg Grenadiers, and encamped that Night on the same Island.

The 3d Day all the Army left Montmorancy-Side and we set all the Houses and Fortifications on Fire, and then we embark'd in flat-bottom Boats and came above the Fall; the French fir'd very brisk all the Time of our passing, but did us no Damage, and we went over to Point Levee and encamped there.

Sept. 4th the Louisbourg Grenadiers and the Remainder of the Army, cross'd over to Point-Levee from the Island of Orleans, and encamped there.--The Same Day 4 Men came from Gen. Amherst's Army; they was 26 Days on their Journey, and inform’d us, That we had got Ticonderoga, and likewise Crown-Point.

Sept 5th about 5 or 6000 Men Marched up the River on Point-Levee Side, to go above the Town, and carried one Month's Provision up in Sloops· The same Day one of the Royal-Americans, who was taken Prisoner by the French-Indians the 31st of July last, made his Escape and came to the Porcupine Sloop of War, that lay a little below the Fall; he informs us That there is no more than about 300 Indians that carries Arms; but that there are a great number of Women and Children, that they were very scant of Provisions; likewise that he himself had been 48 Hours without any thing to eat: He further said, that the Enemy they were very numerous in their Intrenchment", consisting of at least, 14,000 Men of which 11,000 were Canadians and the rest Regulars, the latter of whom were heartily tir'd with the Siege.

Sept. 6th the Schooner Terror of France went above the Town, in the middle of the Day, as she pass'd they kept up a constant Fire at her, and she receiv'd five of their Shot; one in her Jib, two in her Mainsail and 2 in her Foresail; but lost none of her Hands, nor did she sustain any further Damage.

The whole Army being on Point-Levee Side, the main Body were order'd to get ready to march above the Town, on the South Side, and to take only one Shirt and one Pair of Stockings, besides what we had on. We marched up the River about 8 Miles, and then embark'd on board the Men of War and Transports that were up the River: the Number that embarked was 3349 Men, with a Party of the Train of Artillery.

Sept. 10. the Weather being very wet, and the Troops very much crowded on board the Men of War and Transports, the General thought proper to land us on the South Side again; which was a great Decoy to the French : We marched to the Church of St. Nicholas, under the Command of General Monkton, where we halted. The next Day we received intelligence of a small Number of French and Indians, who were driving some Cattle;......we dispatched a Party of 500 Men, who took the Cattle, but the Enemy got off.

The 12th we received Orders to embarked on board our Ships again.

The 13th we had Orders to land ; so we fell down the River in the Ships and Boats till we came a little above the Town, where the Enemy least suspected us (for where the Enemy thought we should have landed, they had about 600 Horse; but what Number of Foot we could not say; we could perceive that they was intrench'd and had 5 Floating-Batteries to intercept our Landing.)

On the 14th we landed, at break of Day, and immediately attacked and routed the Enemy, taking Possession of a Battery of 4 24-Pounders, and one thirteen Inch Mortar, with but an inconsiderable Loss. We then took Post on the Plains of Abraham, whither M. Montcalm (on hearing that we had landed, for he did not expect us) hasted with his whole Army (consisting of Cavalry as well as Infantry) to give us Battle; about 9 o'Clock; we observed the Enemy marching down towards us in three Columns, at 10 they formed their Line of Battle, which was at least six deep, having their Flanks covered by a thick Wood on each Side, into which they threw above 3000 Canadians and Indians, who gauled us much; the Regulars then marched briskly up to us, and gave us their first Fire, at about Fifty Yards Distance, which we did not return, as it was General Wolfe's express Orders not to fire till they came within twenty Yards of us --They continued firing by Platoons, advancing in a very regular Manner till they came close up to us, and then the Action became general: In about a Quarter of an Hour the Enemy gave way on all Sides, when a terrible Slaughter ensued from the quick Fire of our Field Pieces and Musquetry with which we pursue'd them to the Walls of the Town, regardless of all excessive heavy Fire from all their Batteries. The Enemy lost in the Engagement, Lieut. Gen. Montcalm, (who was torn to Pieces by our Grape Shot) 2 Brigadier-Generals; one Colonel; 2 Lieutenant-Colonels ; and at least 130 Officers and Men kill'd and 200 taken Prisoners at their very Sally-Ports, of which 58 were Officers. On our Side was killed the brave and never to be forgotten General WOLFE; with 9 Officers, 4 Serjeants and 44 Privates ; wounded, Brigadier-General Monckton , Colonel Carlton, Quarter-Master-General; Major Barre, Adjutant-General; and 50 Other Officers, with 26 Serjeants and 557 privates.-- This Action was the more glorious, as the Enemy were at least 12,000 strong, besides 500 Horse; whereas we, at the utmost, did not consist of above 3500, some of whom did not engage;--for at the Time of the Engagement Colonel Scott was out burning the Country with 1600 Men; Col. Burton was at Point-Levee with 2000 Men; and on the Island of Orleans there were 1500; whereas our whole Army, at our first embarking at Louisbourg, did not exceed 8240 Men.

At Ten o'Clock at Night we surpriz'd their Guard and took Possession of their Grand Hospital, wherein we found between 12 and 1500 Sick and Wounded.

We lay on our Arms all Night, and in the Morning we secured the Bridge of Boats which the Enemy had over Charles River, and possessed ourselves of all, the Posts and Avenues that was or might be of any Consequence leading to the Town, and broke Ground at 100 Yards Distance from the Walls; we likewise got up 12 heavy 24-pounders; six heavy Twelve Pounders, some large Mortars, and the 46 inch Hawitzers, to play upon the Town, and we had been employed three Days, intending to make a Breach, and storm the City Sword in hand, but we were prevented by their beating a Parley, and sending out a Flag of Truce with Articles of Capitulation, and the next Day- being the 17th of September, we took Possession of the City, where we found 250 Pieces of Cannon, a Number of mortars, from 9 to fifteen Inches, Field-Pieces, Hawitzers, &c. with a large Quantity of Artillery-Stores.

M. Vaudreuille, the Governor-General of New-France, stole out of the City before the Capitulation; leaving only about 600 Men, under the Command of Mon. Ramsay, by whom the Capitulation was signed. The poor Remains of the French Regulars, with about 10,000 Canadians, retired to Jaques Quartiees under the Command of M. Levy; but the Canadians deserted him in great Numbers, and came in and surrendered themselves.

Sept 19th the French Garrison were embarked on board Transports: Such of the Inhabitants as would come in and take the Oaths of Allegiance, were permitted to enjoy their Estates.

Brigadier General Murray is Governor of the Town, and the whole Army left to Garrison it.

During the whole Siege from first to last, 535 Houses were burnt down, among which is the whole eastern Part of the lower Town (save 6 or 8 Houses) which make a very dismal Appearance. We also destroyed upwards of Fourteen Hundred fine Farm-Houses in the Country, &c. FINIS"

Source. Access Heritage website.

[atlanticcanada]

Royal New Brunswick Regiment celebrates 250 years

The Royal New Brunswick Regiment marked a major milestone this weekend, with the infantry battalion celebrating 250 years in operation.

If objects could talk, the uniforms on display at the Royal New Brunswick Regiment would have many stories to tell.

“This is the khaki drill uniform they would have world in the Second World War,” explains Captain David Hughes, regimental historian.

Tales of New Brunswick’s military history and heritage dating back two and a half centuries.

“The Regiment has seen two World Wars, also some of our antecedent units found in the war of 1812. So 250 years actually touches four different centuries from the 18th century through to the 21st century,”

The infantry battalion headquarters in Fredericton showcases a history that can be traced back to October 11, 1770, and predates not only New Brunswick, but Canadian confederation.

Thanks to historians like David Hughes, that history remains strong, despite a number of name changes and reorganizations over the years, 

“Our roots go back, pre-date Canada, pre-date New Brunswick, and we also stem from many other regiments that are now kind of boiled down to what you see today as the Royal New Brunswick Regiment,” explains Hughes.

Today, the Royal N.B. Regiment is made up of 200 men and women with Lieutenant Colonel Brent Whalen at the helm as commanding officer.

Lt.-Col. Whalen says the role is humbling, especially given the regiment’s deep and historic roots.

“We are coming up on 250 years, and we take a look back at the regiment and what they’ve accomplished. The First World War, the Second, Korea, Afghanistan, the domestic operations. It’s incredible,” recalls Whalen.

This weekend, the troupe markets its 250th Regimental birthday. Like so much else in the world, plans for a big celebration had to be shelved because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We were going to be having a trooping of the colours ceremony parade. We were going to be having a regimental gala ball in the evening of the birthday, and it was going to be a lot bigger than its boiled down to today,” explains Hughes.

“We scaled it down, for the health and safety of our soldiers at the same time,” adds Whalen.

While the celebration has been toned down, the regiment will be live-streaming the event on its Facebook and Instagram pages for anyone who wishes to participate virtually.

A battalion birthday of historic significance, with stories yet to be told. 

from CTV News - Atlantic https://ift.tt/3jmkCjH

[esprit-de-corps-magazine]

D-Day: Canada’s three services on Operation Overlord

By Chris Charland

The coming storm

In February 1943, United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, along with their respective advisors, held a high-level conference in Casablanca, Morocco. They were there to discuss the future conduct of the war.

They decided that plans for the re-entry in to Europe must be given top priority and the concentration of forces and materials needed for the forthcoming invasion began.

In March 1943, United States Army General Dwight D. Eisenhower selected the British Army’s acting Lieutenant-General Frederick Morgan as chief of staff to the supreme allied commander of the allied force that would invade northern Europe. Morgan is credited as being the original planner for the invasion of Europe.

Lingering concerns and differences of opinion on Operation Neptune, the assault phase of Operation Overlord, were addressed at the Quebec Conference in August 1943. It was agreed that the invasion of France would take place in May 1944.

On November 28, 1943, General Eisenhower, affectionately known as “Ike”, was appointed the supreme allied commander. His duty was no less than to enter the continent of Europe in conjunction with all other allied nations, undertake operations aimed at the heart of Germany and destroy its forces. Taking into consideration a nearly full moon and the Normandy tides, June 5, 1944, was set as the day for an invasion on a scale that had never before been attempted.

The entire daring escapade was a monumental logistics nightmare. In all, more than 7,000 vessels carrying more than 150,000 troops would have to cross the English Channel to France undetected and arrive exactly on time to establish a beachhead. Once the details of invasion were coordinated, the land forces, under Field Marshal Sir Bernard L. “Monty” Montgomery, put forth the logistical requirements. All allied air operations would be under the command of the Royal Air Force’s Air Chief Marshal Sir Trafford Leigh-Mallory

The build-up also had to provide for the debarkation of reinforcements without interruption for five to six weeks after the landing . . . any delay would carry heavy consequences.

The initial landing was delayed by 24 hours to June 6 due to stormy weather, which also indirectly caused the sinking of the minesweeper USS Osprey. Additionally, an American tank landing craft, United States LCT2498, broke down and subsequently capsized and sank in the vicious swell.

Mother Nature, not the Germans dealt the first blows against Operation Overlord. Nevertheless, D-Day and the Allied forces arrived at the beaches of Normandy with full force on the morning of June 6.

Canadian Red Devils arrive

The crack 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion led by Lieutenant-Colonel G.F.P. Bradbrooke was part of the tough and tumble 3rd Brigade of the British 6th Airborne Division whose members were nicknamed “Red Devils”. The Canadian Red Devils dropped into France after 1 a.m. on June 6, an hour before the arrival of the rest of the brigade, with the aim of securing the DZ (Drop Zone), capturing the enemy headquarters located at the site and destroying the local radio station at Varaville. They were the first Canadian unit to arrive in France.

After that, the Canadians were to destroy vehicle bridges over the Dives River and its tributaries at Varaville. Having done that, they were to neutralize various fortified positions at the crossroads. Additional responsibilities included protecting the left (southern) flank of the 9th Battalion as the battalion assaulted the enemy gun battery at Merville. Upon completing that, the Canadians were to hold a strategically important position at the Le Mesnil crossroads.

Remarkably, the Canadian paratroopers had accomplished all they set out to do by mid-day on June 6.

3rd Division’s Normandy adventure

The Canadian Army’s 3rd Canadian Division, led Major General R.F. “Rod” Keller, along with the 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade under the command of Brigadier R.A. Wyman, formed part of General Miles Dempsey’s 2nd British Army.

The Canadians, numbering just over 14,000, came ashore at Juno Beach. The five-mile wide Juno Beach was divided into two primary sectors, Mike and Nan. In turn, each of these was sub-divided into smaller sections denoted by the sector name followed by a colour. Many heroic deeds were performed on the first day at Juno Beach. The Allies had come to expect nothing less. The relentless pursuit of the Canadian Army’s objectives was measured in human currency; of the 14,000 Canadians who stormed Juno Beach, 340 were killed, 574 were wounded and 49 were captured by the defending Germans.

This was a small comfort, considering planners had predicted a much higher casualty rate.

The 3rd Canadian Infantry Division* comprised the following units:

7th Canadian Infantry Brigade

Royal Winnipeg Rifles

Regina Rifle Regiment  

Canadian Scottish Regiment

8th Canadian Infantry Brigade

Queen's Own Rifles of Canada

Le Régiment de la Chaudière

North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment

9th Infantry Brigade

HIghland Light Infantry of Canada

Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry Highlanders

Nova Scotia Highlanders

Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa (M.G.)  

7th Reconnaissance Regiment

17th Duke of York's Royal Canadian Hussars

Divisional Royal Canadian Artillery

12th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery

13th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery

14th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery

19th Army Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery

3rd Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery

4th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery  

Divisional Royal Canadian Engineers

5th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers

6th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers

16th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers

18th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers

3rd Canadian Field Park Company, Royal Canadian Engineers

3rd Canadian Divisional Bridge Platoon, Royal Canadian Engineers

Royal Canadian Corps of Signals

3rd Infantry Divisional Signals

Royal Canadian Army Service Corps

3rd Infantry Divisional Troops Company  

Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps

14 Field Ambulance

22 Field Ambulance

23 Field Ambulance  

2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade

6th Canadian Armoured Regiment (1st Hussars)

10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (Fort Garry Horse)

27th Armoured Regiment (Sherbrooke Fusiliers)

* Units of the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps also provided vital support during the landings.

British units that supported the Canadian landing on Juno Beach

48 Royal Marine Commando

4th Special Service Brigade

26th Assault Squadron

80th Assault Squadron

5th Assault Regiment, Royal Engineers

6th Assault Regiment, Royal Engineers

Two detachments of the 22nd Dragoons, 79th Armoured Division

3rd Battery 2nd Royal Marine Armoured Support Regiment

4th Battery, 2nd Royal Marine Armoured Support Regiment

“C” Squadron, Inns of Court Regiment

“Ready Aye Ready”

The Royal Canadian Navy was extremely active before and during the first day of Operation Overlord.  

A force of 19 corvettes was assigned to provide escort service to the many ships and floating docks heading for assembly points on the south coast of England Eleven frigates, nine destroyers and five corvettes were seconded to the Royal Navy to provide an ASDIC (anti-submarine detection investigation committee) screen around the western approaches to the English Channel one week before the invasion date. This was to guard against the constant German U-Boat threat.

Only hours before the invasion, Canadian “Bangor” Class minesweepers cleared shipping lanes of mines and then ensured that the anchorage swept clear. The last part of their assignment was to sweep the lanes for the assault boats, right to the limit of the deep water. While under a moonlit sky, they crept within a mile and a half (2.4 kilometres) of shore, pretty well under the noses of the unsuspecting Germans.

Fortunately, they were not spotted; German coastal artillery guns would have made mincemeat of them.

The RCN’s two landing ships, HMCS Prince Henry and HMCS Prince David, carried 14 landing craft (LCI or landing craft, infantry) to a point where they could be launched for the run into the beachhead. In the British sector, 30 “Fleet” class destroyers, including HMCS Algonquin and HMCS Sioux, provided direct fire support for the landing craft carrying part of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division after they were launched from the landing ships.

Mines and other underwater obstructions were a constant threat to the landing craft and few escaped without some sort of damage. Leading the second wave were 26 landing craft of the RCN’s 260th, 262nd and 264th Flotillas. These flotillas were carrying a combined force of 4,617 soldiers, primarily from the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. Six speedy and deadly MTBs (motor torpedo boat) were assigned to patrol the Seine estuary. RCN corvettes would go on to escort additional convoys into Baie de la Seine during the rest of the day. Naval losses were described as “incredibly light”, especially considering how many enemy long-range naval guns and other weapons were still operational at the time of the landings.

The following RCN vessels took part in the invasion of Normandy:

Tribal class destroyer

HMCS Haida

HMCS Huron

V class destroyer

HMCS Algonquin

HMCS Sioux

River class destroyer (British)

HMCS Gatineau

HMCS Kootenay

HMCS Qu’Appelle

HMCS Ottawa (II)

HMCS Chaudière

HMCS Restigouche

HMCS Skeena

HMCS St. Laurent

Mackenzie Class Destroyer Escort

HMCS Saskatchewan

River class frigate

HMCS Meon

HMCS Teme

River class frigate (1942-1943 program)

HMCS Cape Breton

HMCS Grou

HMCS Matane

HMCS Outremont

HMCS Port Colberne

HMCS Saint John

HMCS Swansea

HMCS Waskesiu

Flower class corvette (1939-1940)

HMCS Alberni

HMCS Baddeck

HMCS Camrose

HMCS Drumheller

HMCS Louisburg (II)

HMCS Lunenburg

HMCS Mayflower

HMCS Moose Jaw

HMCS Summerside

HMCS Prescott

Revised Flower class corvette

HMCS Mimico

Revised Flower class corvette (1940-1941 program)

HMCS Calgary

HMCS Kitchener

HMCS Port Arthur

HMCS Regina

HMCS Woodstock

Revised Flower class corvette (1942-1943 program)

HMCS Lindsay

Troop landing ship

HMCS Prince David

HMCS Prince Henry

Bangor class minesweeper

HMCS Bayfield

HMCS Guysborough

Bangor class minesweeper (1940-1941 regular program)

HMCS Vegreville

Bangor class minesweeper (1941-1942 program)

HMCS Kenora

HMCS Mulgrave

29th Motor Torpedo Boat (MTB) Flotilla

MTBs 459, 460, 461, 462, 463, 464, 465 and 466

65th Motor Torpedo Boat (MTB) Flotilla

MTBs 726, 727, 735, 736, 743, 744, 745, 747, 748

260th Landing Craft Infantry (Large) Flotilla

LCI(L)s 117, 121, 166, 177, 249, 266, 271, 277, 285, 298 and 301

262nd Landing Craft, Infantry (Large) Flotilla

LCI(L)s 115, 118, 125, 135, 250, 252, 262, 263, 270, 276, 299 and 306

264th Landing Craft, Infantry (Large) Flotilla

LCI(L)s 255, 288, 295, 302, 305, 310 and 311

528th Landing Craft, Assault (LCA) Flotilla

LCAs 736, 850, 856, 925, 1021, 1033, 1371 and 1372

529th Landing Craft, Assault (LCA) Flotilla

LCAs 1957, 1059, 1137, 1138, 1150, 1151, 1374 and 1375

Per Ardua Ad Astra

It was a maximum effort for the crews of Bomber Command’s 6 (RCAF) Group on the night of June 5-6, 1944. A force of 190 aircraft, comprising Avro Lancaster and Handley Page Halifax four-engine heavy bombers, flew 230 sorties in support of pre-invasion operations. A large number of targets were struck, with particular attention paid to the German coastal artillery emplacements on the beachhead. In all, more than 870 tons of high explosives were dropped for the loss of one Canadian Halifax.

RCAF fighter and fighter-bomber squadrons went into action providing support to the Canadian ground forces as the invasion kicked into high gear. The aerial activity over Normandy resembled swarms of locusts—the planes seemed to keep coming with no end in sight. An estimated 1,000 aircraft from 39 of the 42 Royal Canadian Air Force squadrons stationed overseas took on the aerial support of the invasion with roles ranging bombing, air superiority, ground attack and photo reconnaissance.

The following Royal Canadian Air Force squadrons were involved in pre-invasion activities and in support of the actual invasion.

For more information about the squadrons involved in D-Day, their aircraft and their roles, visit “Who was in the air on D-Day?”

SECOND TACTICAL AIR FORCE

No. 83 Group

39 (RCAF) Reconnaissance Wing

400 “City of Toronto” (Fighter Reconnaissance) Squadron

414 “Sarnia Imperials” (Fighter Reconnaissance) Squadron 

430 “City of Sudbury” (Fighter Reconnaissance) Squadron

126 (RCAF) Fighter Wing

401 “Ram” (Fighter) Squadron

411 “Grizzly Bear” (Fighter) Squadron

412 “Falcon” (Fighter) Squadron

127 (RCAF) Fighter Wing

403 “Wolf” (Fighter) Squadron

416 “Lynx” (Fighter) Squadron

421 “Red Indian” (Fighter) Squadron

143 (RCAF) Fighter Wing

438 “Wild Cat” (Fighter-Bomber) Squadron

439 “Westmount” (Fighter-Bomber) Squadron

440 “City of Ottawa” (Fighter-Bomber) Squadron

144 (RCAF) Fighter Wing

441 “Silver Fox” (Fighter) Squadron

442 “Caribou” (Fighter) Squadron

443 “Hornet” (Fighter) Squadron

No. 85 Group

142 (Night Fighter) Wing

402 “City of Winnipeg” (Fighter) Squadron

148 (Night Fighter) Wing (RAF)

409 “Nighthawk” (Night Fighter) Squadron

149 (Night Fighter) Wing (RAF)

410 “Cougar” (Night Fighter) Squadron

AIR DEFENCE OF GREAT BRITAIN

10 Group

406 “Lynx” (Night Fighter) Squadron

11 Group

418 “City of Edmonton” (Intruder) Squadron

ALLIED STRATEGIC AIR FORCE

RAF Bomber Command / 6 (RCAF) Group

408 “Goose” (Bomber) Squadron

419 “Moose” (Bomber) Squadron

420 “Snowy Owl” (Bomber) Squadron

424 “Tiger” (Bomber) Squadron

425 “Alouette” (Bomber) Squadron

426 “Thunderbird” (Bomber) Squadron

427 “Lion” (Bomber) Squadron 

428 “Ghost” (Bomber) Squadron

429 “Bison” (Bomber) Squadron

431 “Iroquois” (Bomber) Squadron

432 “Leaside” (Bomber) Squadron

433 “Porcupine” (Bomber) Squadron

434 “Bluenose” (Bomber) Squadron

RAF Bomber Command / 8 (Pathfinder) Group

405 “Vancouver” (Bomber) Squadron

RAF Coastal Command / 15 (General Reconnaissance) Group

422 “Flying Yachtsman” (General Reconnaissance) Squadron

423 (General Reconnaissance) Squadron

RAF Coastal Command / 16 Group

 415 “Swordfish” (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron

RAF Coastal Command / 19 (General Reconnaissance) Group

404 “Buffalo” (Coastal Fighter) Squadron

407 “Demon” (General Reconnaissance) Squadron

Conclusion

All in all, Canadian combatants from all three services gave an outstanding account of themselves on the first day of the battle. They would continue to distinguish themselves by dogged determination and selfless acts of heroism, helping write the final chapter and finally closing the book on the Third Reich’s so-called one thousand-year reign.

[itsiotrecords-blog]

http://ift.tt/2tzii0V

Militaries names their operations some pretty weird names — would you have guessed that Operation Viking Snatch was intended to stop weapon smuggling? The idea of naming military operations has been around for less than a hundred years. It began with Germany in World War I, and the idea of giving secretive names to operations that could be used over radio communication took off. There’s no set recipe as to how operations are named, and that can lead to strange names like…

#1 Operation Beastmaster This operation sounds like something straight out of the ’80s, but you won’t be seeing Marc Singer here. Back in 2006, the United States military needed to clear what they nicknamed “IED Alley East.” Serviceman from the 6th Iraqi Army Division, 1 st Brigade and 4th Battalion were sent into a suburb in Ghazaliya, Baghdad to clear three neighborhoods. Sunni insurgents were trying to force out the large numbers of Shia civilians living in northern and eastern Baghdad. Before the operation even got off the ground several soldiers took over security in Ghazaliya weeks before the sweep. Operation Beastmaster was a success and over a three-day period the army arrested an important target and found stockpiles of weapons and pieces of roadside bomb making equipment.

#2 Operation Deliverance This Deliverance had nothing to do with Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty or Jon Voight, but was carried out in 1993 by Canadian Forces. Their mission was a peacekeeping operation in Somalia and part of the United Nations mission there. On December 3rd, 1992 Canada sent almost 1500 troops, a helicopter division and the HMCS Preserver, a supply ship, to Somalia. By May this had turned into a political disaster called the Somalia Affair, which lead to marches and protests in Somalia, Kenya, and North America after a Somali teenager was beaten to death by Canadian soldiers. It led to the 1995 disbandment of the Canadian Airborne Regiment and the resignation and dismissal of several officials in the chain of command. Even though most of the mission was a failure, it did free a captured Canadian journalist and took down Somali warlord Mohamed Tiger I. Barre.

#3 Operation Nickel Grass Although it sounds like an operation to take advantage of the marijuana laws in Colorado, Operation Nickel Grass was really an American operation to airlift supplies to Israel. On October 6th, 1973 forces from Egypt and Syria attacked Israel. Known as the Yom Kippur War, the Soviet Union started to airlift supplies to Egyptian and Syrian forces while Jordan and Iraq also sent aid. Facing an Arab oil embargo, President Nixon ordered the launch of the operation to support the Israelis. The next day the first military airlift arrived at the Lod Airport with almost a hundred tons of ammunition. Over the month long operation almost six hundred missions were flown to deliver equipment to Israel. The last mission took place on November 14th, with the operation giving Israel much needed military relief.

#4 Operation Rainbow Operation Rainbow sounds like a happy operation to bring peace to a country that has been though a lot, but between May 12th and 18th 2004 over a hundred Palestinian civilians and fighters were killed. It was the largest offensive in Gaza since the late sixties, and its goal was to stop rocket attacks and find tunnels used to smuggle weapons into the Gaza Strip from Egypt. The operation was launched after thirteen Israeli soldiers were killed in a terrorist attack in Zeitoun and Rafah. The Israel Defense Forces found and disabled three tunnels, arrested wanted terrorists and secured the borders of Gaza to keep out weapons. The military considered the operation a success, but civilian causalities made it controversial.

#5 Operation Thundercat This was not an operation to rebuild Thundra, but we’re sure Jaga would have approved if that were the plan. At the end of July 2005, solders from the 256th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division and the Iraqi Army 1st and 3rd Brigade 6th division conducted a series of missions to disrupt insurgents. This operation was primarily a mission for the Iraqi Army to gather intelligence and capture and detain opposing forces, but the United States did provide them with assistance and added firepower. The operation captured almost two hundred insurgents, and also captured a computer network used by the insurgents to plan and execute missions.

#6 Operation Exercise Unified Spirit This isn’t an operation to get you excited about your team winning the big game, but a training exercise for NATO held on a regular basis. Starting in 1998 in the Canadian province of Newfoundland, it focused on helicopter and surface attacks against land forces. In 2000 over thirty thousand NATO troops completed Exercise Unified Spirit and Joint Task Force Exercise. That year it took place in the waters of the Caribbean and off the east coast of the United States.  This operation is held to train forces to plan and conduct NATO led peacekeeping missions, regardless of what country they’re called to in the future.

#7 Operation Woodshed As much as we would have liked Ron Swanson to be a part of Operation Woodshed, he was not part of the mission to capture and kill Iraqi insurgents in July of 2007. Iraqi forces and their allies coordinated an air strike on Samood Village. On July 26 th they killed eleven insurgents and captured 13 people suspected of terrorism.

#8 Operation Beaver Cage Operation Beaver Cage was an operation carried out in North Vietnam during 1966 through 1967. The United States Navy and Marines had a joint operation on the coast of Ben Hai River in Quang Nam. The goal was to search for rat tunnels that led to the river. The tunnels were suspected to have been built by a North Vietnam division led by Pham Ngoc Thao. These tunnels were used to move supplies and launch surprise attacks. Operation Beaver Cage’s purpose was to push the Vietnamese out of the tunnels to a location where they could be taken prisoner. Over eighteen tunnels were destroyed and a number of prisoners were captured in 10 different locations, while guns, ammo and grenades were seized. 40 Viet Cong soldiers were also killed and, despite seven American deaths, the operation was considered a success.

#9 Operation Focus Although the name is vague on the details of their focus, Operation Focus was an airstrike initiated by Israel in 1967 that started the Six Day War. On June 5th, Israeli Air Forces led by Major General Mordechai Hod were ordered to attack the Egyptian Air Force. By lunchtime four hundred and fifty aircraft from Egypt, Jordan and Syria were destroyed. Eighteen airfields in Egypt were also disabled, making this operation one of the most successful air strikes in history.

#10 Operation Grizzly Forced Entry While the name brings to mind a grizzly bear forcing its way into a home, the forced entries were being done by American soldiers in Iraq in August 2004 as they searched homes for high value targets. The goal of this counterinsurgency raid was to find insurgents suspected of attacking coalition forces in the city of Najaf, a smaller city south of Baghdad that’s a major destination for pilgrims.

Source: TopTenz

[k2kid]

With thanks to Patrick Dennis, Colonel (RET’D), OMM, CD who reached out to me and pointed me in the right direction. His work to inform us about the role of conscription can be best appreciated by his book, “Reluctant Warriors: Canadian Conscripts in the Great War” Without his help and his work my interest and understanding about this important, and often overlooked, part of our military history and heritage would not be as rich.

  A newspaper clipping from Allsop’s home newspaper in Woodstock outlining some news about conscription. Source: Daily Sentinel Review. January 3, 1918. Page 1.

On June 10, 1918 the 18th Battalion was engaged in the Arras sector. On that date the War Diary relates its activities, but that entry does not reflect what may be a singular historical moment in Canadian military history: the death of one of the first, if not the first, Canadian conscript who was conscripted under the Military Service Act, 1917[i].

The event marked a new phase in the war for Canada and its military policy that would have effects and reverberations in Canadian politics and history that are still contentious to this day.

Undated photograph attributed to George Allsop.

Private George Henry Allsop was born in Belper, Derbyshire, England, a textile and hosiery center during the late 1800 and 1900s. He emigrated to Canada and was a “machine operator” with the Oxford Knitting Company residing at 209 Graham Street in Woodstock, Ontario with his father, George Senior and his mother, Netta[ii].

Private Allsop also worked at the Linderman Machine Company (Woodstock, Ontario). This is a shot of the interior of the plant involved in war production Circa 1914-1918. Source: https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/566890671825174467/?nic_v2=1a3qFOTgq

January 4, 1918 found George Allsop called up to register for active service. Prior to that date he, under the terms of the Military Service Act, would have registered in Woodstock and be classified for active service. When called up he traveled to London, Ontario and in short order his form, “Particulars for a Recruit Drafted Under Military Service Act, 1917” was completed and, as part of the recruitment process, signed his will. This document, perhaps, being the most jarring reminder to Allsop of one of the outcomes to an infantry man. Almost all conscripts were to be slated for this role during the war. George Allsop was not averse to military service as his form indicates that he had one year of militia service with the Oxford Rifles. Passing his medical exam Private Allsop moved on to the next stage of his military service.

Military will of Private Allsop.

In short order he was in England, arriving on February 16, 1918 aboard, like so many other 18th Battalion soldiers the S.S. Grampian and assigned to the 4th Reserve Battalion in Bramshott the very next day. There he trained and learned the skills of his trade until he was transferred to the 18th Battalion effective May 10, 1918. He arrived at Etaples, France at the Canadian Infantry Base Depot the next day where, 11-days later he moved closer to the front at the Canadian Corps Reinforcement Camp. After more training, familiarization, and confirmation that his “kit” for war fighting was fully issued and in good order he left this post after 8-days. He was now in the fight having arrived at the Neuville Vitasse Sector on May 30, 1918 and joined the Battalion in Brigade reserve.

The next day, while the Battalion was in Brigade Reserve the War Diary records that 2 other ranks and Lieutenant Harold Leo Scully[iii] were wounded, probably by long-range shellfire. Even in Brigade Reserve, up to 9 kilometers behind the front line, Private Allsop must have realized fully he was in the war now for even being in reserve did not mean you were not exposed to danger from enemy activity.[iv]

The Battalion moved forward from Brigade Reserve to Brigade Support and then moved to Bretencourt after being relieved by the 26th Canadian Battalion on June 4, 1918 and it was involved from June 5 to 9 in Battalion in martial and recreational training with “…games such as Baseball, Football etc. indulged in each afternoon.” Even at Bretencourt the men were not safe as Lieutenant C.S. Woodrow[v], arriving on June 5 with 18 reinforcements, was hit in the head by an enemy shell fragment that “…burst near Battalion Orderly Room…” and was evacuated to hospital that day.

The evening of June 9/10 required the Battalion to relieve the 27th Canadian Battalion in the front line in positions adjacent and part of the village of Henin-sur-Cojeul, a 15-km march from their billet. Leaving Bretencourt at 8:30 p.m. Private Allsop was finally marching off to war with his comrades. Fresh from training and familiarization in England and France he now had to integrate himself with his new comrades, they were certain to be interested in him, their first exposure to a conscript. The relief was completed at 1:35 a.m. the morning of June 10, 1918 and two patrols were sent out to cover the Battalion frontage. It is almost certain a raw soldier, such as Private Allsop, would not be assigned to such a patrol.

Battalion disposition map, dated June 10, 1918. Note the Cojeul River south of the Battalion’s position.

Later that day, a scouting patrol under Lieutenant McRae was dispatched to reconnoiter during daylight, a highly risky endeavour. The patrol pushed from their front lines to the bank of the Cojeul River and returned, after dark, at 10.45 p.m. having left at 4.30 p.m. that afternoon. They observed three Germans leaving a hedge and disappearing.

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Sometime during that day, the Battalion suffered one other ranked killed in action and one other rank wounded, though the War Diary only acknowledges the wounded soldier. But a soldier did die that day.

Private Allsop was the soldier killed in action. The circumstances, according to his service record and the Circumstances of Death Card do not relate the event in any manner so we cannot know the manner of his passing. He is buried at the Wailly Orchard Cemetery, an estimated 8-kilometers from the location of his death near the French town of Henin-sur-Cojeul.

For all intents and purposes, Private Allsop died the very day he engaged in combat. From his movements from the moment of his conscription to his death he moved to that moment in time where he would perish, and his family would every more reflect on his sacrifice and offer to those that pass by his grave the epitaph “THY WILL BE DONE ON EARTH”. His front-line service with the Battalion was only 11 days. It must have added to the shock of the family when it was informed of his death, so soon after arriving on the Continent.

His death also signalled the beginning of a new stage of the war. The manpower needs of the C.E.F. no longer could be counted on to be replenished by volunteers and the battalions of the Canadian Corps would find that they needed the conscripts to carry on their role as part of the Imperial Forces engaged on the Western Front. Such contributions and sacrifices would be the norm for the volunteers and their new combat brethren, the conscripts, as the war continued to its bloody end.

Private Allsop is buried at the Wailly Orchard Cemetery, along with 7 other comrades of the 18th Battalion. They all were buried between the months of April and June as the Battalion served in the sector.

  NOTE

I strongly recommend reading Patrick M. Dennis’ prior work referring to this soldier: Dennis, Patrick (2009) “A Canadian Conscript Goes to War—August 1918: Old Myths Re-examined,” Canadian Military History: Vol. 18: Iss. 1, Article 4. He further expands upon the important role on conscripts in his book:  Reluctant Warriors: Canadian Conscripts in the Great War available via Amazon and other outlets.

  [i] Source: “…Private George Henry Allsop, a conscript from Woodstock, Ontario, who had joined in London, Ontario just days before Dennis. It is likely that Private Allsop, serving with the 18th Battalion, was the first Canadian conscript to be killed in action when he fell in battle near Neuville-Vitasse on 10 June 1918 – a full two months before it is generally thought that Canadian conscripts first saw action.” Source: Dennis, Patrick (2009) “A Canadian Conscript Goes to War—August 1918: Old Myths Re-examined,” Canadian Military History: Vol. 18: Iss. 1, Article 4. Pg. 6. Note no. 20 of this work indicates that a Private Frederick Broom of the 20th Battalion was likely the first conscript to be die in France. He perished from nephritis and pneumonia. The claim of Private Allsop being the “first” conscript killed in action was made in Sandy Antal and Kevin R. Shackleton, Duty Nobly Done: The Official History of the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment (Windsor, Ontario: Walkerville Publishing, 2006), p.647.

[ii] Vernon’s Woodstock Directory, 1916. The 1914 directory had the family living at 289 Admiral Street with another family member, probably a brother, Horace Allsop.

[iii] Lieutenant Scully was to later perish from his wounds on June 7, 1918.

[iv] See the blog post, “…because life in the trenches was less irksome and monotonous and no more beastly than in places like Bouvigny Huts” for an incident in July 1917 where the Battalion suffered significant casualties due to German artillery while in Brigade Reserve.

[v] Later, Captain Charles Sydney Woodrow.

The First to Die

[k2kid]

Bouvigny Huts.

Bouvigny Huts.

The precise location of the camp has not bee determined. Note the Bois de Bouvigny at grid 32. For reference Lens is almost due East 12 Kms to city center.

Those two words may have spelled mixed feelings with the Battalion. This would be the first time they ware billeted there but other battalions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force reported the conditions for this facility in the rear as “…life in the trenches was less irksome and monotonous and no more beastly than in places like Bouvigny Huts.”[i] It appears at odds with the common conception that the further back from the line a unit it was, the safer it was. But several incidents in the Battalion history would not bear this out.

It was at Bouvigny Huts that one such event occurred and will be viewed through the experience of one of the soldiers that was directly affected by it.

Operational Order No. 127

Operational Order No. 127[ii] from the Officer Commanding the 4th Brigade, 2nd Division of the Canadian Corps would seal the fate of some of the men of the 18th. On July 3, 1917, the order stipulated that the units of the Brigade, of which the 18th Battalion was a member, would move off the line to Divisional Reserve. The orders directed the 18th Battalion to move from the front line at Barlin to Bouvigny Huts. This was an approximately 9-kilometer march and that each company was to maintain a 400 yard interval. The 18th set off 3:00 PM, along with its sister battalion, the 19th. The Battalion had earned some good news, for on July 2, 1917, at a Sports Day held at Camblain-le-Abbe, the Battalion Football Team won the final 2-0 and Private David Sydney Laird won the high-jump.

Arriving that afternoon, the Battalion dispersed to billets and was involved in training on July 4 to 7 inclusive. The Battalion trained on box respirator drill; close order drill; platoon level attack drills involving trench and open warfare. The afternoons were reserved for recreational training, “…including games of all kinds.” There was also a notation that the Corps Commander, General Currie, would visit the Battalion on July 8, 1917, but he actually visited all the battalions of the Brigade on July 7. This was prescient as the next day was rainy, and it appears that all training for the 18th Battalion was called off.

On July 9, 1917, the training continued. The Battalion engaged in its training per the syllabus and at 11:30 AM “sharp” the Battalion began “Battalion drill, with the Battalion Band attending. It ended at 12:30 PM and the men of the 18th returned to their billets, probably glad for a respite, a cigarette, and then lunch before the afternoon’s activities.

It was then the shell struck. A 5.9-inch shell from a Germany gun reached out into the Divisional area and stuck a billet. It wrought havoc as it resulted in 5 men of the Battalion killed outright. Four would die of wounds shortly after, and a further 35 would be wounded to varying degrees.

18th Battalion War Diary entry for incident.

Private Eric Clement Crawford[iii] was one of those men. He, and the Battalion, had a reason to hate Bouvigny Huts. Its reputation may have preceded itself in the minds of the men of the 18th if the rumour mill and purveyors of scuttlebutt had anything to do with sharing local knowledge of the facilities in the rear.

Two sources review this billeting area, giving it a low reputation.

The 102nd Battalion remembers the Bouvigny Huts:

“This was our “job” till the 11th, when we moved back to rest in what was perhaps the worst camp outside of Vadincourt that we ever visited, Bouvigny Huts. It was a nine-mile march to this camp, which was situated in a wood on a hill above Gouy Servins; the weather was bad, the mud intense, the accommodation crowded; the 87th shared the camp with us and for eight days we lingered there with no recreation other than that afforded by one Y.M.C.A. hut which was always packed to the doors. It is a positive fact that man after man when out at rest under these conditions would emphatically declare that he was looking forward to going up the line again because life in the trenches was less irksome and monotonous and no more beastly than in places like Bouvigny Huts.[iv] This is merely a statement of fact and not a criticism of the organization: in view of the number of troops to be looked after and the limited possibilities of accommodation in the whole of the shell-shocked area round Vimy we were lucky not to be sleeping on the ground; but the statement is made to show that life behind the lines was not lived out upon a bed of roses.”[v]

Not only was the camp not “…a bed or roses,” but it was continually subject to German shellfire as this diary entry attests:

“Spent time in same sector. Last trip 28 days in line. Artillery more active. At Bouvigny Huts for eight days. Shelled. Relieved 13th Middlesex for a short time while reliefs were being made. Came into front line on March 20. On HQ, hours 8 – 12 PM. Very heavy gunfire on 21st about 5 PM. On same day Fritz put a shell through church tower at Mont-Saint-Éloi.”[vi]

The shell that exploded that day altered the life-path of Private Crawford.

University College Hospital

By July 12, 1917, Crawford had passed through the intricate organization of the Royal Army Medical Corps and its associated units and had arrived at University College Hospital at London, England. The medical notes outline his condition and treatment[vii]:

Station and Date Disease: G.S.W. R. ankle UNIVERSITY COLLEGE HOSPTIAL

Adm 12/7/17

Died 23/7/17

A very dirty suppurating wound on dorsum of Right Foot at tarsal point.

  X Ray Exam: does not show any fractures.

  17.7.17 Wound is being washed out several times daily with Dakin’s Solution.

  Three [Carol’s] tubes in wound. Right leg in Macintyres Splint. Considerable oedema of soft parts of foot and lower leg.

  19.7.17 Temp was up at 104.6 yesterday. Wound examined under anesthetic. A pocket of pus found to extend to posterior of lateral malleolus. An incision was made behind the malleolus and a tube passed.

  20.7.17 Wound looks much cleaner today. No pain. Temp down to normal. Pt. [patient] is slightly bronchitic.

  23.7.17 Dies of secondary haemorrhage ankle.

His fever, as reported on July 19, indicates an infection, and an operation was conducted to resolve this issue as the doctors must have suspected an infection that was not being resolved by the drainage and the washing of the wounds. The temperature chart shows that Crawford’s temperature appeared to resolve itself after the surgery, but on evening of the 21st his temperature was up to 103.8 degrees F. The notes do not fill in the entire circumstances of his treatment.[viii]

Graphical display of Private Crawford’s temperature, pulse and respiration rates.

At 10:38 PM on July 21, he was haemorrhaging with a temperature of 103.8. The next morning, at 4:00 AM, it has receded to 101 degrees. 12-hours later it rises to 104 degrees and another operation is completed which secured the haemorrhage that had developed from the vanti-tibial [sic] artery. This appears to stop the haemorrhage but another note on the chart at 6:45 AM on July 23, indicates another haemorrhage. He is given intra-venous saline and dies sometime after 10:00 AM that day.

It is not clear from the medical records why the doctors did not amputate but it would appear that Private Crawford’s overall condition, relating to his fever, pulse, and respiration, and other observations, precluded a more radical treatment. The valiant efforts of the doctors and nurses to sustain his life could not stop what would end up being inevitable.

Private Crawford’s grave. BROOKWOOD MILITARY CEMETERY. IX. C. 3. United Kingdom. Source: Find-A-Grave.

Private Crawford, twice wounded during his service, and dying of his second wound, would be buried at Brookwoods Military Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in England. He does not lie alone, but he is the lone member of the 18th Battalion to be buried here. He is not buried close to his home and his grave sites, perhaps unvisited and unadorned, as one of over 5,000.

From that day over 100 years ago, the explosive force of that German shell transformed the lives of at least 44-men of the 18th Battalion. Private Crawford survived, for a time, to become another one of the many of the Battalion to sacrifice his life.

It has been illustrated that staying at the Bouvigny Huts was dangerous and the billeting accommodation appear to give little protection from long-range German shelling. One wonders if the military authorities made any action to obviate the obvious danger of having the huts located near the Bouvigny Woods? If they did, their methods were not effective or were too late for Private Crawford and his comrades.

After the shelling the Battalion would serve in the Lens sector. Twenty-Five men would die that month, half of the deaths attributable to that one shell. The Battalion would make good its losses and move on to fight in the Battle of Hill 70. But before that it would return to the scene of the tragedy more than once.

The dreaded Bouvigny Huts.

[i] HQ 102 Canadians. (2020). Retrieved 28 September 2020, from http://www.102ndbattalioncef.ca/warpages/102chap5.htm

[ii] 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade diary entry for July 1917 Appendix 1, p. 4. RG9-III-D-3. Volume/box number: 4881. File number: 239. Container: T-10678. File Part 1=1917/05/01-1917/07/31; 2=1917/08/01-1917/08/31

[iii] Private Eric Clement Crawford, reg. no. 409106. This soldier was born in Rugby, England on March 23, 1896. He was a groom and joined the 37th Battalion at Niagara-on-the-Lake on June 11, 1915. He arrived in England and served there until he was transferred to the 18th Battalion, where he arrived on February 2, 1916. He was wounded by a GSW in the back on September 15, 1916 and was admitted for treatment of this wound in France until he was returned to the 2nd Canadian Entrenching Battalion on October 29, 1916. He served with this until he was returned to the Battalion on February 21, 1917. He served with the Battalion until his wounding on July 9, 1917.

[iv] Emphasis mine.

[v] HQ 102 Canadians. (2020). Retrieved 28 September 2020, from http://www.102ndbattalioncef.ca/warpages/102chap5.htm

[vi] Smith, A. (2020). document 62146 | Canadian Letters. Retrieved 28 September 2020, from https://www.canadianletters.ca/document-62146

[vii] It is rare to have medical notes that are legible. Doctors, event at that time, seem to suffer from terrible handwriting.

[viii] Note that this interpretation is from a lay person’s point-of-view. No medical knowledge or expertise is implied by the author.

Killed by Shell Last Name First Name Status Reg. No. Date of Death BURLEIGH WILLIAM RILEY Confirmed 124197 09/07/1917 HOLLAND SANDIESON Confirmed 226580 09/07/1917 MATTHEWS J R Confirmed 54288 09/07/1917 RATCLIFF W Likely 739723 09/07/1917 REED G H Likely 413119 09/07/1917 RIBTON R H Likely 53280 09/07/1917 STEEVES A Confirmed 444599 09/07/1917 WEBB WILLIAM Likely 675541 09/07/1917 SMITH A Likely 424389 10/07/1917 CRAWFORD C E Confirmed 409106 23/07/1917

“…because life in the trenches was less irksome and monotonous and no more beastly than in places like Bouvigny Huts” Bouvigny Huts. Bouvigny Huts. Those two words may have spelled mixed feelings with the Battalion. This would be the first time they ware billeted there but other battalions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force reported the conditions for this facility in the rear as “…life in the trenches was less irksome and monotonous and no more beastly than in places like Bouvigny Huts.”

[k2kid]

The 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade (4th C.I.B.) was engaged at Passchendaele in November 1917. Compared with some other Canadian Brigades and Battalions it was not as heavily engaged but the costs to the Brigade was high. The 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade suffered a total of 1,268 casualties (killed in action and wounded) with 73 men taken prisoner over a four-day period spanning November 8 to 11, 1917. In contrast, the 4th C.I.B. was subject to a loss of personnel by all causes of 695 soldiers of all ranks between November 1 to 12, 1917, a span of thirteen days.

2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade Casualty Report

4th Canadian Infantry Brigade Casualty Report

Wounded Canadians on way to aid-post. Battle of Passchendaele. November, 1917. Source: LAC. Online MIKAN no. 3194341 (1 item).

The 18th Battalion War Diary combines its entries for November 9 through 12, 1917 in one large entry spanning two pages and starts its description of these days thusly: “During the whole of this Tour, the Offices and men held this part of the line under the most severe conditions possible.”

The 4th C.I.B. enumerated is casualties for the period in its War Diary and the results are replicated below:

Data replication by author of Appendix 5A. 4th C.I.B. War Diary. November 1917.

Below is a matrix summarizing the total casualties by category data:

Summary. Data replication by author of Appendix 5A. 4th C.I.B. War Diary. November 1917.

The comparative differences in the numbers of soldiers of the 4th C.I.B. shows the numbers killed, wounded, missing (mostly missing, presumed dead and not prisoners),  and gassed are apparent and the totals reflect the outcomes of the battalions most heavily engaged in the actions over those dates, the 19th and 21st Battalions. The 19th and the 21st Battalions was involved in repulsing a German attack on November 3, 1917 at 5:00 A.M. with the German attackers able to gain a foothold in the trenches of the 21st Battalion. The Battalion, with supporting units, counter-attacked and repulsed the attack with the German troops retiring. Later that morning, at 7:30 A.M., the 19th Battalion was again engaged in covering the left flank of an Australian Battalion.

On November 10, 1917, the 4th C.I.B. was involved in its own attack starting at Zero Hour at 6:05 A.M. and this engagement was successful and from the Brigade’s report on operations the engagement did not note any unusual casualty rates. It did note in its War Diary that this “Attack very successful.”

Yet, the two reports of the actions of the battalions of the 4th C.I.B. and the 18th Battalion war diary entries do no fully reflect the tempo of the action at Passchendaele. Fifty, or 86%, of the fifty-eight men of the 18th Battalion that died that month perished between November 9 and 12, 1917. The data above only shows that twenty-eight men were killed in action, with a balance of seventy-five being wounded. Clearly the “Corrected List of Casualties” is not correct and does not reflect the terrible cost of the Brigades involvement at Passchendaele.

The data is illustrative of the ratios of killed, wounded, gassed, and missing and help to give context and meaning to the events that the battalions of the 4th C.I.B. But the report on operations for the Brigade for November 12 and 13 expresses the outcome of the Brigade’s experiences at Passchendaele:

The behavior of the officers and men during the whole of these operations was of the highest standard. The conditions of the ground and the intensity of the enemy’s shelling created difficulties of [a] most severe character. The evacuation of the wounded was one of the hardest problems of the whole tour and only be the greatest devotion to duty by the stretcher bearer parties was the whole area cleared before being turned over to the relieving Brigade.

Source: 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade War Diary. November 1917. Appendix 6. Page 5.

Wounded Canadians on way to aid-post during the Battle of Passchendaele. Source: LAC. Online MIKAN no. 3397044 (1 item).

The Greatest Devotion to Duty: Casualties at Passchendaele The 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade (4th C.I.B.) was engaged at Passchendaele in November 1917. Compared with some other Canadian Brigades and Battalions it was not as heavily engaged but the costs to the Brigade was high.

[k2kid]

“Sports Days” were an integral part of British and Canadian Military life. In every area of operation, be it Flanders, Salonika, or Mesopotamia. For the Canadian troops, Sports Days were times of recreation and competition – a break from soldiering. Yet, the popularity of the Sports Days had a decidedly military purpose. They helped foster and maintain a competitive inter-unit rivalry which increased the feelings of identity and bond between the soldiers of the battalion in which they belonged. This was to extend to the Brigade, Divisional, and Corps level.

It would be interesting to note the differences of attitudes of the soldiers of the Canadian Expeditionary Forces from before and after the Vimy Battle and campaign during April 1917. The 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade had a chance to experience this shortly after the battle. The Sports Days were extremely popular. Contemporary images (see later in post) show the events lined with troops packed tightly together cheering on the participants. The scheduling of the events with very short intervals or delays between each event would serve to maintain the momentum of the event.

The 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade, comprising of the 4th Canadian Trench Mortar Company, 4th Canadian Machine Gun Company, 18th, 19th, 20th, and 21st Battalions had acquitted itself well from its arrival in the Ypres Sector of Belgium through its baptism of fire in the battle of St. Eloi Craters. From this sector, the 4th C.I.B. moved to the meatgrinder of the Somme and was engaged in some horrific fighting, resulting in many casualties. As each patrol, bombardment, raid, and attack occurred more of the “original” men of the initial draft were replaced due to death, wounding, illness, and re-assignment. By the time of the Brigade’s (and Canadian Corps) involvement at Vimy in the Arras Sector, the battalions were a mix of men from the original drafts from Spring 1915 and subsequent replacement drafts from battalions formed in Canada and broken up for reinforcement. The battalions of the 4th C.I.B. soldiered and slogged on in the Vimy Sector through the winter of 1917 until the attack in April 9, 1917 on Vimy where they, and the Canadian Corps, acquitted themselves in such a manner as to become part of the Canadian experience and historical iconography that is still argued about today. Whether one believes in the “nation building” outcome from the Vimy battle, or not, the soldiers on the ground had no such point of reference. They were living history, not examining it a century later.

They were assigned, followed orders, feared death, wished for their rum ration and for a myriad of other comforts and hardships to happen and not happen to them. The constant noise of combat, personal and military interactions, and other aspects of military life that we, now, would think as privations, were taken in a matter of course, to be borne until the end of the war, or their lives, whichever may come first.

We would wonder how they felt when the news went down the line that the battalions of the 4th C.I.B. were being pulled off the line for a months training. A chance to get dirty and dusty and be able to be clean soon after, instead of waiting their four to six-day rotation in the front line to go back to brigade reserve to have a bath and get clean clothes. The month of June was upon them and the 4th C.I.B. War Diary relates on several days that the weather was “fine and warm”.

With the Battalions and other support units billeted back from the line, most probably well within earshot of the artillery shelling, the units were disposed in “rest” at the following locations:

Brigade Headquarters and the 18th Battalion at Barlin,

19th Battalion at Vedrel,

20th, 21st Battalions, and the 4th Trench Mortar Company at Coupigny Huts,

And, lastly, the 4th Canadian Machine Gun Company at Gouy Servins.

The units of the 4th C.I.B. had Pay, Church, and Clothing Parades and each unit had a highly-organized training syllabus created outlining, in detail, the training programme through the next three weeks. The orders also understood that the men would need some free time and allowed the soldiers to visit estaminets from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with the following admonition: “Any man found in Estaminets [bar/café] other than at above hours is to be severely dealt with.”

The battalions were also warned off damaging crops and in the procurement of private billets and to be on the look out for flagged cars, which indicated a General Officer was riding in it so that they would show proper honours to the occupants of that car. Further expectations were also outlined as to proper military dress, the wearing of helmets and the saluting of the Guard for flagged cars. The battalions may be in the rear resting and training, but there was no doubt that they must maintain military bearing and comportment while in the rear area.

Such nagging details of military life and discipline encroached on every aspect of a soldiers’ life and the maintenance of such order and obedience was a constant concern for the military authorities. On June 9th, 1917, the 19th Battalion orders had two items that illustrate this:

Order 2

It has come to my notice that many men use the satchel of the Small Box Respirator for carrying brushes, combs, knives, forks, note-books, tins of polish, and similar articles.

The practice of caring in these satchels any articles other than those issued as part of the Small Box Respirator Outfit is strictly forbidden, as it exposed the troops to grave danger during gas attacks, through injury to the mask or by interfering with its rapid adjustment to the face.

Attention will be given to this point at all inspections of anti-gas appliances, and instances of failure to comply with this order will be severely dealt with.”

Order 5

The Regimental Police report that the orders regarding dress are not being carried out, and that men are walking about the streets without belts and respirators, also some without putties. Unless the orders regarding Dress are strictly obeyed severe disciplinary action will be taken, which will affect present daily half holiday.

The training was intensive and full of activity. A soldier’s day started at 5:30 a.m. with reveille and ended at “Lights Out” at 9:54 p.m. Each day had an intensive morning session of training for four hours (with an additional hour of physical training) that ended with “dinner”. After an hour and half break, two more hours of training ended at 4:00 p.m. Supper was served at 4:30 p.m. which left almost four hours for other activities, such as visiting Estaminets and other establishments in search of recreation.

Outside of these activities the normal thread of human activity and enterprise occurred, reinforcing an odd normalcy to the month that was at odds with the usual routine of an active battalion engaged in combat rotations at the front. With successive days off the line and with time to spare after training the men would be writing letters, talking, and engaged in other recreational activities.

One area of focus for this effort would be the sports days being held in June. The first was a series of independent sports days for each Battalion which determined the individuals and teams to participate at the Brigade Sports Day. The second event involving the entire Brigade was held June 18, 1917 at the Y.M.C.A. Ground located at Ruitz, France. Once these contests where held the finalist would be able to participate in a Divisional Sports Day June 23, 1917 at the Chateau Grounds in Coupigny, France.

The “sports” events were varied, from organized baseball to horseback wrestling involving a total of twenty events. Each event took a full day from 10:00 a.m. in the morning until the presentation of prizes at 6:00 p.m.

It appears that each Battalion Sports Day was held for the Battalion and not against each other. The 18th Battalion relates that its Sports Day occurred on June 15, 1917: “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.” The 19th Battalion War Diary states simply for June 13, 1917: “Battalion sports.” Finally, the 20th Battalion makes no mention of a Battalion Sports Day.

The Sports Day had a range of events, some were conventional sports like American baseball and running races to less conventional, but more entertaining boot races and horseback wrestling. These events gave the battalions and support units of the 4th C.I.B. an outlet of competition and fun fitting for the young men of the day and, most certainly, more enjoyable than the six hours of training they had been involved with. It was also a morale and team-building event helping to cement an esprit de corps within the battalion, brigade, and division. Given the nature of military life there was very likely a hyper-competitive sense of duty to represent the home unit by the men participating and it is interesting to note the number of privates listed as winners and place-takers in the events. Only one corporal (Corporal Osler, who won two separate events) and a Sergeant Cattanach represented soldiers above the rank of private in the sport where “other ranks” participated.

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The Brigade Sports Day June 18, 1917, garnered winners of the competitions who would move on to the Divisional Sports Day. The weather was described as “beautiful” by the 21st Battalion diarist who proudly shares that: “In these sports the Battalion did exceptionally well, carrying off six first prizes, one second, & one third.” The 18th Battalion relates: “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.” The 20th Battalion appears to have more success than the 18th with: “This unit won 130 lbs boxing, tug of war, and horse back wrestling, besides several seconds. The Assn. Football game was tied with the 18th Battalion, score 1 all. Very successful day.” The 19th Battalion is effectively mute only relating that on the date the event was held.

Results of the 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade Sports Day held June 18, 1917. These competitors would then participate in the Divisional Sports Day held June 23, 1917.

The 4th Brigade felt that disseminating the results of the Brigade important enough to issue a letter with the results on June 20, 1917:

Event Results Battalion 100 YARD DASH Cpl. Osler[i] 21st Pte. Devereaux[ii] 20th 100 YD DASH OFFICERS Lieut. Applegath 19th Lieut. Currie 20th 220 YARD DASH Cpl. Osler 21st 1 MILE RELAY Team 21st 19th 18th OFFICERS RELAY RACE Team 21st HIGH JUMP – FINALS Pte. Laird 18th Cpl. Herring 4th. M.G. Coy. RUNNING BROAD JUMP Sgt. Cattanach 21st Pte. Robson[iii] 18th TUG OF WAR Team 20th OBSTACLE RACE Pte. Hopkins 19th Pte. Dear 19th BAND RACE Pte. Porter 18th Pte. Grey 18th BOOT RACE Pte. Guyett 4th. M.G. Coy. Pte. Freeman 20th BLINDFOLD RACE Pte. Freeman 20th Pte. Guyett 4th. M.G. Coy. MULE RACE Pte. Flick 19th Pte. Davey 19th HORSEBACK WRESTLING Team 20th BASEBALL Team 18th INDOOR BASEBALL Team (Officers) 19th BOXING – 120 LBS Pte. Dormer 20th BOXING – 135 LBS Pte. Mallett 19th BOXING – 145 LBS Pte. Forman 18th BOXING – 160 LBS + Pte. Fisher 19th

Every unit of the Brigade, save the 4th Canadian Trench Mortar Company, was represented with no one unit dominating the events. The finalists of each sport would move on to the Divisional Sports Day and represent their Battalion and their Brigade.

On June 23, 1917, the Divisional Sports Day was held near the chateau at Coupigny and each Battalion had its finalist participate. The units’ war diaries reflect the results thusly:

18th Battalion: Company bath parades in morning. Voluntary parade to Divisional sports in the afternoon, Lieut. W.S. Caldwell[iv], J.G. Doherty, J.D. Parsons arrived as reinforcements.

19th Battalion: Drill and Training carried out as per schedule included in appendices.

20th Battalion: No training other than physical drill at 7:00 am. During balance of the day the Battalion attended the 2nd Divisional Sports. This Battalion won events as follows:- Wresting on horseback –              First. Tug-of-War –                                    Second. Boxing –                                            Second. The sports were most successful. The 18th Battalion won the final Association Football. We have yet to play off our tie with them.

21st Battalion: The Battalion attend the Divisional Sports which were held on COUPIGNY SPORTS GROUND. A massed band concert was also given on the grounds during the afternoon.

The end of June brought an end to the training. Divisional orders released June 26, 1917 would start the process of the 2nd Canadian Division preparing to relieve the 3rd and 4th Canadian Infantry Divisions. The training was over. The memories of the glory of the Sports Days would have to be that – memories. It was time for the troops of the Division and those battalions comprising the 4th C.I.B. to take their preparations for war and put them into practice as the next stage of the campaign to defeat Germany on the Western Front would start.

Passenchendaele was four months away. Nothing would prepare them for Passenchendaele.

To an Athlete Dying Young

To-day, the road all runners come, Shoulder-high we bring you home, And set you at your threshold down, Townsman of a stiller town.

Smart lad, to slip betimes away From fields where glory does not stay And early though the laurel grows It withers quicker than the rose.

Eyes the shady night has shut Cannot see the record cut, And silence sounds no worse than cheers After earth has stopped the ears:

Now you will not swell the rout Of lads that wore their honours out, Runners whom renown outran And the name died before the man.

So set, before its echoes fade, The fleet foot on the sill of shade, And hold to the low lintel up The still-defended challenge-cup.

And round that early-laurelled head Will flock to gaze the strengthless dead, And find unwithered on its curls The garland briefer than a girl’s.

A.E. Houseman

[i] Possibly James George Hutchins who served under an assumed name as James G. Olser, reg. no. 637006.

[ii] Possibly John Joseph Devereaux, reg.  no. 58326, killed in action October 11, 1918.

[iii] This soldier is not yet identified. He was not part of the initial 1915 draft.

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

For more informaton on Private Laird please read this blog post.

Sports Days for the 18th Battalion “Sports Days” were an integral part of British and Canadian Military life. In every area of operation, be it Flanders, Salonika, or Mesopotamia.

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Blog Resources for Vimy Ridge

Blog Resources for Vimy Ridge

A wounded Canadian receives first aid. – Vimy Ridge. April, 1917. Online MIKAN no. 3521860 (1 item).

Though not exhaustive there are resources related to the 18th Battalion and its experience at Vimy Ridge.

Vimy Ridge: Instructions for the Offensive

The Stress of Combat: Captain Lloyd at Vimy Ridge

A Letter From a Soldier Who Served During the Vimy Attack: Graphic Description of Vimy Ridge

99…

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In the early 1970s the last members of the 18th Battalion Association, purportedly the first post-Great War battalion association formed in Canada, was winding down. The number of members had declined due to age and many of these men, now in their 80s, wanted to put together a series of memories to share amongst themselves.

One such memory relates the first Christmas in the trenches for the 18th Battalion and makes note of a part of the area in Ypres, La Brasserie, where a Sergeant Spooner was killed. For this brief mention in a document published privately almost 50-years ago this would be the only notice of the death of this man. Even Sergeant Spooner’s service record only states that it was “Reported from Base” that he was “Killed in Action”. The story relates that the road in that area “…was usually under fire…” and save for that information our knowledge of the death of Sergeant Spooner would be sadly incomplete.

Now, a letter, written shortly after his death on November 14, 1915 sheds some light to his passing.

On December 8, 1915 the Galt Daily Reporter published a letter from Private James Edward Petty to his wife, Harriet Rebecca Petty. Private Petty had some news he wanted to share with his wife and his wife must have felt that publishing the letter in the newspaper would be something the town of Galt would want to know about. This news sheds some light into the circumstances of Sergeant Joseph Spooner’s death are illuminated by the letter and expand far beyond that of the official record and that of the memories of some old men. He was not “Killed in Action” as Reported to Base and recorded in his short service record – he actually died of wounds and his passing gives a window to the important and entrenched social structure and bonds these men held with each other. What is surprising is the letter appears not to be edited. It relates the precise circumstances of Sergeant Spooner’s wounding and death in some detail. Enough detail to be potentially distressing to Sergeant Spooner’s wife, Alice S. Spooner, of 14 Lowell Street, Galt, Ontario[i].

The Galt Daily Reporter published the letter on December 8, 1915, 3-weeks after Spooner’s death and it relates that during an assignment where the platoon Spooner was a non-commissioned officer of was tasked with taking rations from the reserve lines to the front lines. He is hit by a bullet, most probably a machine gun bullet from a machine gun pre-sighted to lay down interdicting fire on know lines of communication, in the stomach and is given aid by Petty and a lance-corporal and taken to the rear by some attending stretcher-bearers. Approximately thirty-minutes transpire from the time Spooner is taken away and Petty returns from delivering the food to find Spooner has died of his wounds.

Petty relates, “We were talking and laughing and all of a sudden a bullet came—bang—and Joe said, “I am done; I’ve been shot, boys.” I asked him, “Where did you get hit and he said, “In the stomach.”

The social connections from this sad event are represented by several salient inter-relations between the survivors and another family member.

The letter relates how Petty was to later find Sergeant Spooner’s brother, Bombardier W.S. Spooner serving with the 16th Battery, 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade (the same brigade the 18th Battalion served in), was searched out by Petty to inform him of his brother’s death so he could attend the interment. Attending were senior officers of the Battalion, and two chaplains (one of them undoubtably the Rev. Carlisle), perhaps due to the seniority of this soldier’s rank and reputation. Though death was not foreign to the Battalion, but it was still new as Sergeant Spooner was the thirteenth man to die because of enemy action. Another man, Private James Patient, assists.

The connection illustrated by Spooner, Petty, and Patient relates not only to their town of enlistment, Galt, Ontario, but to their age. They were all over 40-years old and represented a different era and generation of men compared to, such as in Private Petty’s case, his son, Private James George Petty, who at 20-years old represented the younger generation. It is speculation that the Patient is referring to the elder Patient but Spooner (44-years old at enlistment but shown as 47 at his death), Petty (40-years), and Patient (41-years) were all contemporaries. They lived in a town where they may well have been aware of each other before they enlisted and their enlistment and service together insured they would be comrades. Their loss is expressed in their need to not only attend the service, but seek out Spooner’s brother so he can be present and then to obtain a wooden cross to mark the grave with the assurance in the letter as, “When they make the cross we are going over there again and fix it up and make it look nice.”

This seems to be a contrary comfort to the newly widowed Alice Spooner at the letter does provide details of the moment he is hit, and, perhaps, his last words. There are no expressions of comfort in the letter, and this does make sense as it is a letter from Petty to his wife, but it would appear that his intent was not to have this information shared, particularly given the circumstances of death. It is; however, a frank and direct relating of the events and it is not couched in any sentimentality or expressions of valour. Spooner was, “…so good a man,” as the presence of the officers, chaplains attest to and the attention to his grave site after his interment his comrades give.

Spooner was such a good man and his death so marked an occasion that the danger of the road at La Brasserie is remembered by aged veterans 60 some odd years later. These memories also relate in another story the death of a comrade later in the war with the same sense of the need to honour and remember the dead and acknowledge their passing with appropriate demonstrations of the interment and marking of the graves of the fallen of the 18th Battalion.

Lance-Sergeant Spooner lies with 38 other men of the 18th Battalion at Ridge Wood Military Cemetery. His epitaph reads: He Lay Down His Life for His Friends.

60 odd years after his death he was being remembered. Perhaps not by friends, but comrades-in-arms that knew of the sacrifice such men made.

PLACE CROSS ON GALT MAN’S GRAVE[ii]

PTE. PETTY WRITES REGARDING DEATH AND BURIAL OF SERGT. SPOONER[iii]

Mrs. E.J. Petty, 78 Chalmers street[iv], has received the following letter from her husband, Pte. E.J. Petty[v], well known in the city, who is on the firing line with the 18th Battalion:

I guess by the time you get this letter that you will have heard of the death of Joe Spooner. I was with him when he got shot. He fell into my arms and myself and a lance-corporal on examining him found he was shot below the right breast. The stretcher-bearers came up and we left him in charge of them. When we were coming back from the trenches we were told he was dead; he died about half an hour after he was shot. That was on Sunday night about six o’clock, the 14th of November.

The next morning I found where young Bill Spooner[vi] was and told him where the body was lying in the dressing station. We were just in time to see him before he was buried. Burial took place in the Canadian cemetery[vii] and when we arrived there with the body our Captain and Major and two chaplains were waiting. Tell Mrs. Spooner that I had charge of the interment and was assisted by Mr. Patience[viii] [Patient] (also of Galt). When they make the cross we are going over there again and fix it up and make it look nice. Our captain, major, and the chaplains shook hands with Bill Spooner before they went away and told him how sorry they were at losing so good a man.

This is a dangerous job, carrying rations up to the trenches to our A and C Company men. It is our turn, D company, this week and we all take our turns. We were all marching up a road to get the rations, No. 13 platoon leading and No. 14 platoon about 20 yards to our rear. Spooner was leading No. 14 and I was right behind him. We were talking and laughing and all of a sudden a bullet came—bang—and Joe said, “I am done; I’ve been shot, boys.” I asked him, “Where did you get hit and he said, “In the stomach.”

A Soldier’s Poem[ix].

Enclosed with the letter there was the following piece o poetry that had been clipped from some periodical:

My little we home in the trench, Where the rain storms continually drench.

There’s a dead Turk close by, With toes turned towards the sky, And he gives off a terrible stench.

Underneath, in the place of a floor There’s a mass of mud and straw.

And the Jack Johnsons tear Through the rain-sodden air O’er my little wet home in the trench. There are snipers that keep in the go, So you must keep your “napper” down low,

And the star shells at night, Make deuce of a light, Which causes the language to flow.

We’ve biscuits and “bully” to chew, For it’s months since we tasted a stew,

But with shells dropping there Yet not place can compare With my little wet home in the trench.

[i] A later document shows her at 4 Jarvis Street, Galt, Ontario.

[ii] The Galt Daily Reporter. December 8, 1915. Page 1.

[iii] Spooner, Joseph:  Service no. 53878.

[iv] Most likely now 78 Chalmers Street, North given the era of the homes at this address. The homes on Chalmers Street, South, are from the 1950s-60s era of construction.

[v] Petty, Edward James:  Service no. 53951.

[vi] Spooner, William Samuel, reg. no. 84187.

[vii] Ridge Wood Military Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

[viii] Patient, James:  Service no. 54040.

[ix] The significance of the addition of the poem to the letter, let alone its inclusion into the news story, is not known.

In the early 1970s the last members of the 18th Battalion Association, purportedly the first post-Great War battalion association formed in Canada, was winding down. 1,738 more words

[k2kid]

This is the second of a 4-part series of the analysis of articles relating to Private Frederick Hodson, who served with the 18th Battalion.

Private F. Hodson, circa 1914-1919.

In the first part of this series Private Hodson gave an extensive interview that portrayed a soldier’s life while serving with the 18th Battalion from its inception but the interview focused on his experiences since his unit had gone to Belgium mid-September 1915. His experiences coincide with several of the Battalion “Memories”[i] transcribed in the early 1970s by members of the 18th Battalion Association. The search for food and comfort; close calls in the front and reserve lines; and the loss of comrades are common themes in both documents.

Source: War Diary of the 18th Battalion. October 1916.

But time is linear in concept and experience and the next article is published several months later, on October 27, 1916, relating a letter received by his parents at some unknown date. Hodson was awarded the Military Medal on December 12, 1916[ii] but the 18th Battalion War Diary has a page at the end of the of the October 1916 war diary that lists the soldiers that earned medals, presumably in relation to the actions during the attack at Courcelette on September 15, 1916. Thus, Hodson was aware of the award before its official posting at the London Gazette. As the news article relates, he was told about the medal a week prior to his wounding on October 1. Therefore, he was informed of earning the medal on September 24, just over a week since the attack on the 15th.

Describing the events of September 15/16 as “hell” was apropos. The horrors of that day are reflected in the casualties the Battalion suffered in September, but not in the War Diary. In fact, there is a note in the War Diary images that states: “Not much help to a historian.” Its as if the collective memory of that month was deliberately suppressed. Compared to the war diaries of its sister battalions, the 19th, 20th, and 21st, the 18th Battalion War Diary is a shell of the events giving no details of the operations during those two tumultuous days. It is impossible to attribute a reason for this lack of detail, compared to prior and subsequent diaries, but one could imagine the diarist, who was an active member of the Battalion, simply not being to relate horror.

Below are the entries for the days in question[iii]:

Date Hour Summary of Events and Information 15   Position as yesterday. Battalion holding ground gained.

  16 Morning Battalion relived by Gordon Highlanders.

Battalion in reserve at TARA VALLEY. 57 o.r.s. arrived as reinforcements. 7 Officers reported Killed in action, 4 wounded, 1 missing.

In contrast, the 21st Battalion’s War Diary[iv] comprises 6-pages of handwritten notes of the events on September 15.

106 members of the Battalion died that month. Of these men, 86 died on September 15, 1916. The 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade War Diary relates in its entry on September 24, 1916, “Casualties: Since arriving at the Somme 61 Offices – 1420 Other Ranks.” A Canadian infantry brigade would comprise approximately 4,500 men, all ranks. Clearly 33 per cent of the Brigade was lost to men dead or wounded in the 10 days that the Brigade was engaged at the Somme.

A further indication of the intensity of combat during September 15/16 was the fact that the entire Brigade retired to a reserve area after the 16th. The war diaries do not give a reason for such a short engagement, but one only has to imagine the level of combat intensity, coupled with large losses of men, that would require removal of these units for rest, replenishment, and refitting.

As a stretcher bearer, Hodson would have been very busy and with men being wounded, usually 4-times the number killed, he would have assisted with his comrades up to 344 wounded men. Obviously, from the prior news article, Hodson did not shy away from dangerous duty, having volunteered once (that we know of) to retrieve a wounded man exposed to strafing fire from a German machine gun in early 1916. Ironically, this man was found dead, so he, in effect, risked his life to recover a dead body. It is no wonder he was deserving of the Military Medal and one begins to suspect that the valour to which he is being recognized is constant and that this medal only reflects part of his bravery and commitment to his comrades.

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Our brave private is also a member of the local temperance band and also expressed his musical side in the Battalion by being a member of its regimental band. What did Hodson think of the other men who went to the estaminets in the rear areas for a local beer or took their tot of daily rum ration? Perhaps he made a personal exception given the circumstances of his service?

Whatever the case, he seemed to hold his efforts as a stretcher-bear to a very modest level having, as related at the end of the letter that the notification of the Military Medal “left him speechless when his name was called out.”

This letter touches on, briefly, what was to be the second worst month for combat death the Battalion would experience.[v] It was not until August 1918 that this grim statistic would be exceeded. The experiences of that month were so horrible the official Battalion diarist seems to have suppressed the events the Battalion experience that terrible month. It does reinforce the character of our man, Hodson. Standing 5’ 10”, tall for a man at that time, he is diminutive in his estimate of his martial skills but no one knows how many men he helped save that fateful day and though he may be surprised by the recognition of the Military Medal his parents would be duly proud and the people of Rushden would have one more hero to honour.

There is no doubt of his valour to his comrades of the 18th. They needed men like Hodson, and they had them.

 The News Clipping

“Hell for 48 Hours”

We are pleased to report that Pte. Frederick William Hodson, of the Canadian Contingent, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. S. Hodson of 14, Crabb-street, Rushden, has been recommended for the Military Medal for exceptionally brave work on the battlefield as stretcher bearer.  Five of his comrades were also recommended at the same time, and it appears, according to his letter, that whilst they were carrying out their good work under heavy shell fire the Colonel was watching them the whole of the time, and subsequently Pte. Hodson and his comrades were paraded before the battalion and personally commended by the C.O. in front of the men.  To use Pte. Hodson’s own words “It was hell for 48 hours.”

A week after he gained the distinction, Pte. Hodson was wounded in the head, the shell which caused his injury also wounding one of his comrades.  This was on October 1st and he entered hospital at Boulogne three days later.  We are pleased to report that he is now convalescent, and at the Canadian Base in France.

Pte Hodson enlisted in Canada on the outbreak of war, having left Rushden for Canada four years ago last Rushden Feast.  He went to France twelve months last September, and was home on leave last February.  His wife, whom he met and married in Canada, is at the present time residing in Rushden with his parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Hodson have three sons serving – Pte. Fred Hodson, as mentioned above, Pte. L. Hodson, of the Durham Light Infantry, at present in France, and Sapper E. Hodson of the Royal Engineers, who is in Egypt.  The latter, who was formerly in the Beds Regt., was recommended for the D.C.M. for distinguished service at Neuve Chappelle on March 12th, 1915.  He was given a parchment which reads:- “The Bedfordshire Regt., 2nd Battalion. 8006 Pte. E. Hodson has been brought to the notice of the Officer Commanding the Battalion for his good work in the field at Neuve Chappelle on March 12th, 1915 when he was wounded trying to recapture a trench.  C.C. Onslow, Lieut Colonel Commanding 2nd Battalion, the Bedfordshire Regt.”

One other son, the late Pte. Ben Hodson, was killed at Loos on Sept. 27th, 1915. [Bert]

Pte. F. W. Hodson, prior to leaving for Canada, was a member of the Rushden Temperance Band, and has been playing with the regimental band since he has been at the front.  The news that he was to be recommended came as a complete surprise to Pte. F. W. Hodson, and in his letter he says that it left him speechless when his name was called out.

Source: https://www.rushdenheritage.co.uk/war/hodsonF1917.html

Rushden Echo, 27th October 1916, transcribed by Gill Hollis

    [i] The entire series of “Memories” have been transcribed at the blog and are available in a drop-down under the “Memories of the 18th Battalion” heading.

[ii] London Gazette. No. 29854. December 9, 1916. Page 12057.

[iii] RG9-III-D-3. Volume/box number: 4926. File number: 398. Container: T-10721. File Part 1=1915/04/29-1916/12/31; 2=1917/01/01-1918/02/28

[iv] RG9-III-D-3. Volume/box number: 4930. File number: 410. Container: T-10731. File Part 1=1915/05/01-1916/06/30; 2=1916/07/01-1917/01/31

[v] Author’s research. See Excel file “Master Casualty Record with tabs by Month.xlsx”

“…speechless when his name was called out…”: Hodson Earns the Military Medal This is the second of a 4-part series of the analysis of articles relating to Private Frederick Hodson, who served with the 18th Battalion.

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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 

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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…