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

From 1st December, 1918 to 31th December, 1918

Volume 40 With appendices 1 – 30

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information Maps for reference: Marche 9, Germany 1 M, 1 L, 2 L. 1/160,000 attached. Appendix No. 27. 28. 29, and 30. Mean- 23.05.40. Marche 9 1 The Battalion moved in full marching order 08.00 Hrs. for VILLERS STE. GERTRUDE, the usual noonday halt was made for dinner. From the Noon Hour on the country became rolling, and hilly and very heavily wooded. The Battalion arrived at the destination at 15:00 Hours. Capt. T.H.C. Rayward, and batman returned from Instructor’s Course at Senior Officer’s School, Aldershot, England. 1 O.R. to hospital. 1 O.R. from leave. Appendix No. 1. Villers Ste. Gertrude. 2-G.95.35 Marche 9 2 Battalion resting in billets. 12 O.R’s on leave and 2 O.R’s returned from leave. 3 O.R’s to Hospital and 1 O.R. returned from Hospital. 3 Battalion resting in Billets awaiting move order. 2 O.R’s to hospital. 4 The Battalion moved in full marching order at 08:30 Hours and marched via GRAND MONIL to ODEIGNE. It rained practically during the entire march of the day. A noonday halt for dinner was made, the Battalion arriving at its destination at 16:00 Hours. The march to-day was stedily [sic] uphill into the heart of the Ardenne Mountains. Lieut. R.E. Rouse and 2 O.R’s from leave and 2 O.R’s to Hospital. Appendix No. 2. Odeigne 3-I 20.10 Marche 9 5 The Battalion moved off at 08:30 Hours in full marching order for COUTRIL, dropping down the latter part of the march into open country. Battalion arrived at its destination at 15:00 Hours. 2 O.R’s to Hospital. Appendix No. 3. COUTRIL 4-K 98.60 6 The Battalion moved off at 08:00 Hours in full marching order for WALL RODE, Germany, crossing the Frontier shortly after 10:00 Hours, and passing through St. Vith about 14:30 Hours, arrived at destination at 16:00 Hours. 8 O.R’s from leave and 3 O.R’s to hospital. Appendix No. 4. WALLERODE 5-C 90.35 Germany 1-M 7 The Battalion moved off at 08:30 Hours for MANDERFELD, arriving there at 15:30 Hours. The country roundabout assuming more of an agricultural aspect. 1 O.R. to Hospital and 2 O.R’s returned from Hospital. MANDERFELD 4-H 60.10 Germany 1-M 8 Battalion resting in billets. Capt. R.R. Hartry and 7 O.R. from leave. 2 O.R’s to Hospital. MANDERFELD 4-H 60.10 Germany 1-M 9 The Battalion moved off at 08:30 Hours for DAHLEM, arriving at destination at 16:00 Hours. The Battalion Headquarters being located in the Post Office. 1 O.R. from leave and 1 O.R. on Course. Appendix No. 6. DAHLEM 3-K 60.45 Germany 1-M 10 The Battalion moved off in fighting order at 08:30 Hours and marched to MUNSTEREIFEL, arriving at destination at 15:00 Hours. Lories provided by Brigade, carrying the Men’s packs. The Battalion was billeted in a Boy’s Boarding School. Appendix No. 7. MUNSTEREIFEL Germany 1-L 11 The Battalion moved at 08:30 Hours in fighting order, and marched to KUCHENHEIM, arriving at destination at 13:30 Hours. The Battalion Headquarters being located in the Burgomeister’s house. 18 O.R’s from leave 1 O.R. to hospital and 1 O.R. returned from Hospital. Appendix No. 8. KUCHENHEIM Germany 1-L 12 The Battalion moved in fighting order at 08:30 Hours and marched to DUISDORF, arriving at 12:00 Hours. 2 O.R’s from leave and 1 O.R. to Hospital. 1 C.S.M. and 11 O.R’s [to] 2nd Divisional Headquarters, Bonn, for Guard Duty. Appendix No. 9. DUISDORF Germany 2-L 7 D 35.40 13 The Battalion moved off in full marching order at 08:00 Hours and marched via Bonn, crossing the famous RIVER RHINE at that point to its final destination in the town of Hennef (Sieg). In passing through Bonn the Battalion marched with rifles at the slope and bayonets fixed and passed in review at the east end of the Bonn Bridge, before the Corps and Divisional Commanders. Lieut.-General A.W. Currie, Corps Commander, taking the salute. Maj.-Gen. H.E. Burstall, Commander of the Division, and the Divisional Staff being immediately in the rear of Lieut.-Gen. Currie on the reviewing stand. Upon the arrival of the Battalion in Hennef, 13:30 Hours, Batt’n. Hdqr’s was located in the office of a manufacturing establishment on Frankfurter Strasse, and Hdqr’s officers were billeted in a large Chateau nearby. The Men of “A”, “C” and “d” and Hdqr’s Companies were assigned to billets they were to occupy during their stay in the area. These billets being in private homes of the civilian population. “D” Company proceeded without delay to the village of Happershass, where they were to be on duty as Outpost Company. 3 O.R’s from lave. Appendix No. 10. HENNEF 6 G 90.80 Germany 2-L 14 On this second day of the stay of the Battalion in this are the Officers and men rested in their billets, recovering in a measure from the hardships of the march. Conforming with Army Orders issued to the Burgomeister and from him to the population in general, many civilians have reported to Batt’n. Hdqr’s. for the necessary Identification Passes for use in the local area. These passes being a description of the holder and having further, his or her photograph attached thereto. Several men of the Battn. having knowledge of the German Language, have been selected for Batt’n. duty as Interpreters, etc. 1 O.R. on Hand Compositors Course. 5 O.R’s from leave. 2 O.R. Canadian Corps Cyclists returned to their unit. 2 O.R’s to Hospital. 15 The Battalion formed up on parade and marched though the town to a theatre, in which nothing in the way of amusement was presented for quite some time, and in which the Battalion now held Church Service. The Padre, being in fine form, gave the Battalion an excellent sermon, which was thoroughly appreciated by all members of the Batt’n. present. 1 O.R. to Brigade Duty as Paymaster’s Clerk. Appendix No. 11 attached. 16 The Battalion carried on with training, as per syllabi attached. Between “A” and “D” Companies’ billeting areas a fine large field was located and it served as an excellent Drill Square or Parade Ground. 1 O.R. to Hospital. Appendix No. 12. 17 Battalion Headquarters Staff and Company moved today to the village of Allner, locating the Battalion Orderly Room in a magnificent large Castle, or as termed in the German tongue, Schloss. The Schloss is a huge and very fine specimen of Architectural Art of an earlier period, and is built entirely of stone. Its is surrounded by a beautiful park. When one has seen the Castle and Grounds he is immediately struck with the thought that it is emblematic of the utmost in luxury and convenience. The Batt’n. Headquarters Officers have appropriated the entire Castle and appurtenances for their quarters, having installed themselves in the Sleeping Chambers and using the Breakfast Rooms, Dining Rooms, Drawing Rooms, Billiard Rooms, etc. at their will. The Castle maintains a large staff of servants and consequently the order of the house is of the finest and our Officers are living, as is their due, in every luxury. In a large forest in the rear of the Castle Grounds Dear [sic] and small game abound and the Officers of the Battalion secure a great measure of enjoyment from their hunting and shooting expeditions. The remainder of the Battalion remain in Hennef and are continuing with their training as per syllabi attached. 6 O.R’s from leave. 1 O.R. to Hospital. Appendix No. 13. Allner 6 G 90.80 Germany 2-L 18 The Men of the Battalion have now fully recovered from the hardships of the march and are training as per Syllabi attached. The spirit of the men is superb and they are entering into the daily routine of their stay here and are carrying on their various duties with an eagerness and willingness that is proverbial with the Canadians as a whole. Clothing parades are being held almost daily and the various Company Quartermasters are as rapidly as possible fitting the men with the required new clothing so that the Battalion has now approached the appearance of smartness that is second to none in the allied Armies and in the Canadian and British Armies in particular. 1 O.R. to Hospital. Appendix No. 14. 19 The Battalion continued their training as per syllabi attached. Lieut. S.G. Stokes and 4 O.R’s on leave. Appendix No. 15. 20 “B” Company moved to-day to Brel to continue their duty as Outpost Company there. The remainder of the Battalion continuing their training per Syllabi attached. 3 O.R’s on leave. Appendix No. 16. 21 The Battalion continues training as per Syllabi attached. 4 O.R’s on leave, 1 O.R. to Hospital. Appendix No. 17. 22 The Battalion attended Church Service to-day and enjoyed an excellent sermon, the Padre being in his usual good voice. Major J.J. Richardson and 3 O.R’s on leave. 2 O.R’s attached to Battalion as interpreters. Appendix No. 18. 23 The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached, and are maintaining duties in control of the area in the following manner:-

Duties of Commandant and Town Major combined in towns of Hennef (North of Railway), ALLNER, Happerschloss, Heisterschloss, Brehl, Mushmuchl and Weldergoven, in the person O.C. Battalion occupying this district. Headquarters at Schloss in Allner. One H.Q. Officer has office at Hennef permanently for purpose of stamping identification cards. District Administration is carried on by the Battalion Administration through the Burgomeister. No civilians are employed.

One Railway Control Post on broad gauge Railway station at Hennef, which has phone connection to Inter-Allied Railway Commission at Cologne. On the outpost line we have two main Control posts, four subsidiary posts and tow patrols, reference map Germany 2-L.

No. 1 Post (subsidiary) at railroad bridge under V. in Weldergoven.

No. 2 Post (subsidiary) on dirt road just east of village of Weldergoven, just above N. in Weldergoven.

No. 3 Post (subsidiary) on bridge over river where Hennef road joins Allner road. Directly above W. in Weldergoven.

No. 4 Post (Main Control) on bridge in Muschnuehl road, directly below M. in Muschnuehl.

No. 5 Post (subsidiary) on foot bridge S.E. of village of Brehl halfway between l. in Brehl and T in Triesch.

No. 6 Post (Main Control) on bridge where main road Winterschield crosses river.

No. 1 Patrol covers ground between No. 4 and No. 5 Posts.

No. 2 Patrol covers ground along river from junction main Winterschield road with main Brehl-Schied Road.

Traffic with Neutral territory only through main control posts.

Subsidiary posts to guard bridges and prevent traffic to foot paths etc.

No. 377223 Pte. Bihl W. (193 Labour Co’y) and No. 3108760 Pte. Wieber J. (11th Co’y Cdn. Forestry Corps) are attached from 4th C.I.B. as interpreters at Railway Control Post. We have no F.(b) Police attached.

3 O.R’s on leave and 3 O.R’s returned from leave. 5 O.R’s attached to 2nd Divisional Train. 1 O.R. to Hospital. Appendix No. 19.

24 The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached. 4 O.R’s on leave and 2 O.R’s returned. Appendix No. 20. 25 “‘A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL’. Christmas Day dawned bright and clear, with just a touch of snow upon the ground, which gave the vicinity a very “Christmas-like” appearance.

The members of the Battalion were in excellent spirit and thoroughly prepared for anything the day might bring forth. The Officers of the Battalion made every preparation for a fine Christmas Dinner and the men were awaiting it with very keen anticipation. At the appointed hour the tables in the different Company mess-rooms, especially selected for the day, were teeming with good things to eat, and they assuredly presented a most pleasant sight.

“A” Company Mess-room was located in a large hall in the Northern section of the town. “C” Company enjoyed its dinner in a very picturesque theatre in the centre of the town, while “D” Company had theirs in one of the schools the town affords. “B” Company being on duty as Outpost Company, had arranged to have dinner in one of the schools in the village of Brohl.

Each of the mess-rooms was decorated in a most pleasant and “Christmas-like” style and tended to heighten the then very high spirit of the men. The tables were loaded with Apples, Oranges, Nuts, Ginger-ale, Cakes, etc. and from the serving tables in the rear came the most appetizing odours of Turkey, meats, vegetables, Christmas Plum Pudding and other items to be served as the dinner progressed.

The men took their places at the tables in a very business-like manner, the different platoons being kept together, and then began what was their first Christmas dinner and also, in all probability their last one in German Territory.

Lt.-Col. L.E. Jones and ad Staff Officers and the Officers of the different Companies were in attendance at each of the dinners of the Companies and during the progress of the dinner Lt.-Col. Jones made a short [entered in pencil] speech of good will, wishing the members of the Battalion a “Very Merry Christmas” and every prosperity for the coming year, which as he remarked would be the one year that would never be forgotten by any one present or by the world in its entirety, being the Anniversary year of the Ending of the War. He again complimented the members of the Battalion upon their share of the conflict and expressed himself as being more than pleased with their conduct in the past and present.

At the close of his address the men express their appreciation of his remarks by rising and giving him three of the most hearty cheers and a “Tiger”.

At the close of the dinner the faces of the men showed, very glowingly, their entire satisfaction. Altogether the occasion was carried off in an excellent manner and it will be one that will never be forgotten by any of the members of this battalion.

2 O.R.s on leave and 3 O.R.s returned.

26 The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached. 4 O.R’s on leave and 1 O.R. returned. 1 O.R. to Hospital. Appendix No. 21. 27 The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached. 3 O.R’s on leave and 24 O.R’s returned. 4 O.R’s attached to Repatriated Prisoners of War Camp, Wahm. 1 O.R. attached as reinforcement. 2 O.R’s to Hospital. Appendix No. 22. 28 The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached. Lieut. C.D. Smith and 4 O.R’s on leave. Appendix No. 23. 29 The Battalion attended Church Service and enjoyed another of the Padre’s excellent Sermons. Capt. C.H. Boulden and Capt. W.A.S. Porter and 5 O.R’s on leave, and 1 O.R. returned. 1 O.R. to Fitters Course at Duran. 1 O.R. to Hospital. Appendix No. 24. 30 The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached. 1 O.R. on leave to Paris and 1 O.R. returned from leave, from United Kingdom. 1 O.R. returned from Hospital Appendix no 25. 31 The Battalion continued training as per Syllabi attached. 4 O.R’s on leave. 1 O.R. to Hospital and 1 O.R. returned from Hospital. Appendix No. 26.

War Diary

Appendices (Not Including Maps)

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

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k2kid · 7 years ago

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

From 1st July to 31st July, 1918

Volume 35 With appendices 1 – 7

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

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

Map 62.E.

31 Battalion resting in billets.

War Diary

Appendices

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

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k2kid · 7 years ago

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

From 1st August to 31st August, 1918

Volume 36 With appendices 1 – 15

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

Map Sht. 62.M.

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

S.4.a.80.80

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

U.7.a.50.50

nr. CACHY

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

Ref. Map 62.E.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

W.19.Central

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

E.16.b.90.70

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

F.8.a.60.90

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

F.26.d.9.7.

BDE. SUPPORT

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

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

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

BDE. SUPPORT

I.10.a.2.5

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

W.13.a.30.70

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

Support Area.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

War Diary

Appendices

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

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Confidential War Diary

18th CANADIAN BATTALION – 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION

FROM 1st August to 31st August 1917

Volume 24

With appendicis 6 – 13

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information Map reference, 36B Edition 6, 1/40,000. BOVIGNY 1st. R.19.central. 1 18th. Canadian Battalion at BOVIGNY village in billets, the Brigade being in Divisional Reserve.

Owing to heavy rain, the Battalion did no training to-day. 5 o.rs attached to Divisional Burial party.

BOVIGNY 1st. R.19.central. 2 No training carried out to-day owing to heavy rain.

2 o.rs returned from hospital.

BOVIGNY 1st. R.19.central. 3 Heavy rain again prevented any training. Lieuts. M.R. Sloan, R.R. Hartry, J.N. Mowbray, and G.J. Spencer arrived as reinforcements. BOVIGNY 1st. R.19.central.

Map Sheet 36c: See O.O. #B attached.

4 Battalion Pay parades. The G.O.C. 2nd. Canadian Division paid the Battalion a visit in the morning. Battalion proceeded to the line in the afternoon. The 4th. Canadian Infantry Brigade relieved the 6th. Canadian Infantry Brigade in the LAURENT sector.

The 18th. Canadian Battalion relieved the 26th. Canadian Battalion in Brigade support (CITE ST PIERRE) M.16.b.55.25. No casualties going in and relief was completed at 11.05 p.m.

Lieut. J.D. Parsons and 2 o.rs admitted to hospital (sick).

As yesterday 5 Quiet day for the Battalion.

The Battalion furnished carrying parties of 350 men for carrying for Trench Mortar Batteries to their gun positions. Casualties numbering 1 o.r. killed[i] and 3 o.rs Wounded.

As yesterday 6 Battalion still furnishing Carrying parties for T.M. Bys.

Nothing unusual to report.

Major H.D. Dunnett returned from hospital.

As yesterday 7 Battalion again furnishing carrying parties for T.M. Bys. LAURENT SECTOR relief

See O.O. (7) attached

8 18th Battalion relieved the 19th Canadian Battalion in the Right Sub-sector, the line was held by a series of outposts from M.18b.6.5, N13.a.8Q95. to N7b.15.20 and N.7.c.95.80. with H. Qrs at N.7.c.0.7.

“B” coy in command of Capt. D.A.G. Parsons took the line of Outposts. “A” coy, in command of Lieut. J. McAmmond went in support at M.11.d and M.12.c.

“C” and “D” coys remained in Brigade support. Relief was completed with anything unusual happening.

Capt. G.H.F. Hodgins returned from course. 4 o.rs rejoined from hospital.

MAP Sheet 36 C. See O.O. (8) attached 9 In conjunction with the 20th and 21st Canadian Battalions the 18th Battalion raided the Enemy front line trenches.

The whole raiding party was under the command of Lieut-Col. L.E. Jones, O.C. 18th Canadian Battalion. The frontage raided by the 18th Battalion was the German front line from N.13.b.1.4 to N.7.d.70.15.

Zero hour for the raid was 4.15 a.m. Artillery support was very good.

Although no prisoners were captured many casualties were inflicted upon the enemy, and very valuable information as regards to enemy trenches, wire and dug-outs was obtained.

Our parties penetrated a distance of 100 yds into the German lines, our casualties being 4 o.r. Killed and 24 o.r. slightly wounded. All wounded were returned safely to our lines.

The German barrage was very scattered. Our raiding party consisted of 35 men of “C” Coy under Lieut. H.[B]. Johnson and 65 men of “D” Coy under Lieut. D. Northcombe and Lieut. G.J. Spencer.

Lieut. Spencer and 7 o.rs., one of whom was wounded, were unable to get back to our lines owing to daylight, remained in a demolished cellar throughout the day. Lieut. Spencer and one man found their way in, in the early part of the night and assisted by Lieut. T.R. Dougall they searched the whole area during the night but were unable to re-located the cellar in which the remaining 5 o.rs were.

Upon the return of Lieut. Dougall and party a report came from the 4th Brigade H.Qrs that these missing men came in and hard reported to another Regimental Aid post.

Night of 9/10 The 4th Brigade was relieved in the LAURENT sector by the 6th Brigade. “A” & “B” coys were relieved by the 27th. Canadian Battalion, and “C” & “D” coys, in Brigade support, were relieved by the 31st. Canadian Battalion. Relief was completed at 3.30 a.m.

The Battalion moved to billets at BOVIGNY village and the 4th. Brigade came into Divisional reserve.

On roll-call at BOVIGNY village it was found that the 5 men who had been left in NO MAN’S LAND had not returned as reported by the Brigade, so a party under LIEUT. DOUGALL again went up to search for them.

The party found the cellar in which these men had been but the men were not there. On returning, the search party reported at the Right Coy H. Qrs of the 27th Canadian Battalion where the missing men were located, having found their own way in. Total casualties as above stated.

Nothing to report today.

BOVIGNY village 11 Battalion resting and having Bathing parades.

Lieut. J. McAmmond proceeded on Leave.

BOVIGNY village 12 Battalion resting and having Clothing parades.

Lieut. J.H. Warburton arrived as reinforcement.

BOVIGNY village 13 Church parade postponed yesterday was held to-day. Capt. C.G. Lawrence our new Chaplain, officiating.

Lieuts. W. Hampton[ii], H.C. Duff and G.N. Tucker arrived as reinforcements. Lieut. D.M. Northcombe and 6 o.rs admitted to hospital (sick)

Night of

Front Line

Relief MAP Sheet 36 C.

See O.O. 9 attached.

13/14 The 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade relieved part of the 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade and took over their frontage.

The 18th Battalion, less “A” and “B” coys, relieved part of the 27th Battalion and took a line of outposts from M.18.b.6.5 to N.7.d.15.20. Battalion H.Qrs were at N.7.c.0.[7]. Relief was complete at 2.30 a.m.

Code word upon completion being “Your 144 received at…”

Outposts Line 14 Enemy artillery showed no unusual activity during to-day. 20 o.rs arrived as reinforcements. 6 o.rs attached to 4th T.M. By. Night of 14/15 “C” and “D” Coys moved into their assembly positions along the outpost line. “A” & “B” Coys came into support. “A” coy with one platoon at N.7.c.1.4. and two platoons at approximately M.12.b.3.0.

At 4.25 a.m. the 18th Battalion in conjunction with other Units of the 1st, and 2nd Canadian Divisions attacked the enemy lines from N.13.a.9.6. to N.7.70.15. the object being to capture and consolidate the enemy support line (CHICORY TRENCH) from N.14.a.05.55. to N.13.b.60.0. thence Westerly to N.13.b.05.35. The attack was entirely successful and 26 minutes after zero hour (4.25 a.m.) we occupied our objectives, capturing some 65 prisoners (165 P.I.R.).

Lieuts. C.H. Biscoe and L.A. Bissell being wounded just as we reached the enemy front lines.

On the right by arrangement with the 21st Canadian Battalion we held CHICORY TRENCH up to N.14.c.15.65. and on the left pushed our posts forward to N.13.b.0.15. and controlled the railway cutting. Consolidation was rapidly proceeded with. At. 2.30 p.m. the enemy made a very strong bombing attack on the left of our Battalion and the right of the 21st Battalion and succeeded in entering a portion of our newly won trenches. During this enemy counter attack Lieut. A.A. McLean was killed. He had gathered a few men together and was leading up the LENS-BETHUNE road to give what assistance he could and was shot by an enemy sniper and instantly killed.

15 As soon as the attack had gone forward, Lieut. T.R. Dougall and some men of the Scout Section started forward to make a reconnaissance patrol and to exploit success, they were held up for an hour by an enemy plane firing on them from immediately overhead. When the patrol reached the captured enemy position, it went forward approximately 300 yds from our newly won position.

Lieut. DOUGALL returned with some valuable information as to the enemy position and defences, as well as a complete Minewerfer [minenwerfer] crew of 20 men as prisoners.

Three platoons of the support Coys were sent up to reinforce “D” Coy. Lieut. J.M. Fisher with great judgement and coolness, prepared his counter attack in conjunction with the 21st Battalion.

The counter attack was launched at 5 p.m. with the assistance of the artillery and the lost trenches were easily regained. 10 prisoners were captured.

A/Capt. M. Dunsford.

This officer very gallantly led his men to the attack, and, although severely wounded shortly after entering the enemy front line trenches, he continued to encourage his men by his personal example. By his intimate knowledge of the situation he was able, although incapacitated himself, to direct his men until the objective was reached, refusing to be carried out until the more serious cases had been evacuated.

Lieut. G.G. Brachin [Brackin] arrived as reinforcement.

Night of 15th Upon Captain Dunsford being wounded, Lieut. H.B. Johnson took over command of the company. At night there were not attacks or counter-attacks, but enemy artillery was exceptionally heavy on all parts of our sector. 16 About noon Lieut. Dougall, L.Sgt. C.E. Routley and 19 o.rs crossed the railway cutting at N.13.b.2.2 and went forward along COTTON TRENCH to N.13.b.5.0 where there were fired upon from ALOOF TRENCH and they could see that ALOOF trench was heavily held by the enemy. Turing about they went Westward along COTTON trench to N.13.c.70.95 where they again encountered an enemy party from the South, turning about again they found that an enemy party from ALOOF trench had followed them and they were practically surrounded.

Lieut. Dougall then sent up his artillery signals and under cover of this fire succeeded in returning to our lines with only one casualty. There was no unusual activity during the remainder of the day.

Evening 16th The 18th Battalion was ordered to attack the enemy trenches between the LENS-GRENAY Railway and LENS-ST PIERRE Railway in conjunction with the 4th Canadian Division, the Objective being ALOOF TRENCH and thence to connect this trench to CHICORY TRENCH on the left. Two platoons of “A” coy where detailed for this attack, with one platoon of “B” coy in support, as this part of the font had not been reconnoitered except by Lieut. Dougall, a reconnoitering patrol consisting of Lieuts. Dougall, MacDonald, and Sloan, and 4 N.C.Os, where sent out to gain knowledge of Jumping Off point. They covered all the ground necessary.

On their way back a bomb was thrown into the party which killed Lieut. MacDonald and wounded Lieut. Sloan[iii].

On Lieut. Dougall’s report regarding the conditions of the ground it was decided to vary the attack, to push across the Railway cutting from the trenches at N.12.b.0.15 and N.13.b.2.2 immediately [after] the artillery barrage lifted.

The later plan was sanctioned by the Brigade, Zero hour was set for 4.35 a.m.

17 In the early hours of the morning the assaulting platoons were taken forward and it was while giving assistance to the Officers in the placing of their men, Lieut. DOUGALL was mortally wounded by an enemy 5.9 shell. However the attack went forward at the proper time, and occupied COTTON TRENCH from N.13.c.95.90 – N.13.central and N.13.b.4.1 but owing to heavy shell fire and the withdrawal of troops on our right, a certain amount of disorganization followed.

At 5 a.m. Capt. J.S. Bell, Adjt, went forward and succeeded in re-organizing the parties and established posts at N.13.c.85.80 – N.13.c.95.90 – N.13.central and N.13.b.4.1. and AMULET TRENCH was found to be untenable.

He sent up further supplies of bombs and left Capt. D.A.G. PARSONS in charge. The position was completely secured by 7.30 a.m.. While this operation was in progress, Lieut. W.H. Fenton and a small party went out of our post at N.13.b.60.35 and entered the Railway cutting and searched the houses in the vincinity in the front of our lines. He found that the enemy were working very diligently and building ALOOF TRENCH to the left, to connect with CINNIBAR TRENCH. This was reported to the artillery, who took action.

During the day enemy artillery kept up its usual fire on our trenches. From 2 to 4 p.m. our forward posts reported the enemy assembling in houses on either side of the LENS-BETHUNE road from N.13.b.9.2 to Crossroads N.14.c.4.8 and in CHICORY trench.

This was reported to our Artillery who took very effective action. At 4.00 p.m. a small part of the enemy estimated at 15 men, attempted to raid our posts at N.13.b.65.40 but were driven off without casualties to us. The remainder of the day and evening was fairly quiet. Lieut. H.E.F. Ralph admitted to hospital, sick.

18 At 12.00 midnight 17th-18th, a heavy enemy barrage opened on the whole Brigade front. Our Artillery replied immediately to an S.O.S. call from our left. No enemy attack was delivered on our front, although some grenades were thrown.

At 2.00 a.m. a similar occurrence happened. It is quite certain that the enemy intended to attack both of these times but his formations were broken up by our Artillery.

At 4.15 a.m. the enemy again opened a heavy barrage on the whole brigade front and succeeded in pushing forward some men into the front trenches on the left of the Brigade, these being immediately ejected.

No attack occurred on our immediate front. During the day, nothing of importance occurred beyond the usual desultory shelling.

Night 18th/19th The 18th Battalion was relieved by the 50th Canadian Battalion taking over the frontage from the LENS-GRENAY Railway to the LENS-BETHUNE Road, and the 27th Canadian Battalion from LENS-BETHUNE Road to our left boundary.

The relief was completed at 3.45 a.m. and the Battalion proceeded to billets at BULLY-GRENAY, the Brigade being in Divisional Reserve.

23 o.rs arrived as reinforcements, 8 o.rs returned from hospital.

BULLY-GRENAY. 19 The Battalion resting today and having bathing parades.

LIEUT. T.R. DOUGALL Died of Wounds at No. 6 C.C.S. Barlin, and was buried at the Military Cemetery there. His courage and energy had been a source of pride in the Battalion and his work had been of the greatest value, not only to the Battalion, but also to Brigade and Division.

4 O.R’s admitted to hospital, sick.

20 No work carried out as Battalion was resting after a strenuous tour. 28 O.Rs arrived as reinforcements and 10 O.Rs returned from hospital. MOVE

See O.O. #11 attached

21 9.30 The Battalion left BULLY-GRENAY at9.30 a.m. and proceeded to BOUVIGNY HUTS going in Corps Reserve. On the road “D”coy sustained 52 casualties, 23 of which were fatal, by the bursting of an enemy shell (high velocity). This bringing our casualties to approximately 220 during the tour.

Lieut. W. Hampton and 4 O.Rs admitted to hospital.

Map Reference Sheet 36b. Edition 6, 1/40,000

See O.O. #12 attached.

MOVE 22 The Battalion moved to LE PENDU HUTS at W.30.b.central, near VILLERS AU BOIS. Lieut. V.M. Eastwood proceeded on leave. LE PENDU HUTS 23 Company and platoon inspections. Specialist training, as Lewis gunners, Bombers and Rifle-grenadiers. In the afternoon recreational gams as Football, Baseball etc.

Lieut. D.R. Oliver arrived as reinforcement.

LE PENDU HUTS 24 a.m.

p.m.

Company inspections of rifles and equipment. Close Order drill and specialist training.

Recreational games. 19 O.Rs rejoined the Battalion from C.E. fatigue.

LE PENDU HUTS 25 a.m.

p.m.

“A” coy proceeded to Rifle ranges at MAISNAL BOUCHES for musketry.

“B” & “C” coys went to the ranges.

5 O.Rs returned from hospital.

LE PENDU HUTS

Syllabus #13 attached

26 10 a.m.

p.m.

Brigade parade for Divine Service. “D” coy and H.Q. Units to ranges for Musketry.

Recreational games.

3 O.Rs admitted to hospital (sick).

LE PENDU HUTS 27 The Battalion together with the rest of the 4th Brigade was inspected by Field Marshall Sir Douglas Haig K.T., G.C.B., G.C.V.O., K.C.I.E., Commander and Chief of British Armies in France, who warmly complimented the Battalion both on its good work in the recent operation and its appearance on parade.

3 O.Rs admitted to hospital (sick).

LE PENDU HUTS 28 a.m.

p.m.

Company parades and instruction of Specialists.

Recreational games.

4 O.Rs returned from hospital.

LE PENDU HUTS 29 a.m.

p.m.

Specialized training of Bombers, Lewis gunners, and Rifle grenadiers.

Recreational games.

Lieut. J.H. Warburton attached to 4th Trench Mortar By.

LE PENDU HUTS 30 a.m.

3.30 p.m.

Company inspections and training of Specialists. Recreational games in the afternoon.

A conference of all Officers of the 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade was held a Brigade H.Qrs to discuss recent operations.

7 O.Rs reported to hospital (sick).

LE PENDU HUTS 31 a.m.

1.30 p.m.

Company Parades and Training per syllabus attached.

Battalion moved from LE PENDU HUTS to VILLERS HUTS.

A/Capt. T.H.O. Rayward and Lieut’s R.C. Sheridan, J. Morgan, J.C. Spence arrived as reinforcements.

96 O.Rs arrived as reinforcements.

[i] Private A.E. Rennie, reg. no. 643994.

[ii] Lieutenant William Hampton was an original member of the 18th Battalion, attesting at Galt [now Cambridge], Ontario on October 25, 1914 with a regimental number of 53923. He was promoted through the ranks to Corporal and then assigned to officers training at Bexhill.

[iii] The death of Lieutenant MacDonald and the wounding of Lieutenant Sloan was due to friendly action. A soldier of “C” Company threw a grenade which resulted in this. This appears to be the first document case of friendly fire in the War Diary’s documentation. Source: “Summary Report of Hill 70 Action August 14 to 18, 1917”. 18th Battalion Canadian War Diary. August 1917.

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War Diary of the 18th Battalion: August 1917 Confidential War Diary of 18th CANADIAN BATTALION - 2nd CANADIAN DIVISION FROM 1st August to 31st August 1917…