1915

No diary for 1915 exists.

   

Having tried unsuccessfully to enlist in 1914, Walter eventually joined up on 11 January 1915 and was quickly promoted to Lance Corporal in February.  Sailing from Southampton on 9 May, he landed in France the following day.

Here he was seconded to the 1st Battalion and probably saw action at the Battles of Festubert (May) and Loos (September and October)

It seems that stature and teeth were no longer an issue.

JANUARY 1916 - IN THE LINE, WHIZ BANGS & SHELL SHOCK

Saturday 1st 

Saw the New Year in under different circumstances this time. Working in the trenches when the change took place. We wished one another the old wish. We gave the Huns a few New Year gifts. Heard that the Huns had captured that connecting trench we had been digging at the hairpin when they blew up that mine. Started digging another new trench up Chapel Alley. Nice & quiet for a wonder. 

Sunday 2nd 

Had a walk up to Noyelles after dinner shopping. Brought Wally Vine back with us. He was back from leave. He brought some Port wine back with him. Quiet a treat to taste it once again. Same old job tonight but it was not so quiet. Turned out a wet night. 

Monday 3rd 

At dinner time news came that we were being relieve & going back to Noyelles at 3 o’clock. So we had to rush about & get packed up. Ted and his pals had a narrow escape this morning. A coal box knocked down their house. They could not find one of them, Chambers, I am afraid he has gone. Ted was properly shaken up. Found Bridge at Noyelles & went & slept in his hut. 

Follow the link to view the Commonwealth War Graves Commission commemorative certificate for Private George Henry Chambers Private George Henry Chambers | War Casualty Details 729507 | CWGC 

Tuesday 4th 

Should have journeyed by motor busses this morning, but our sgt. messed up and so we missed them. For a while we were like the song. We marched here & we marched there. At last we set off on our destination on Shanks pony. Billeted the night at Houchin. We Cpls & the sgt got a fine billet. Had a rare old time in the evening. There is a large camp there. 

Wednesday 5th 

On the move again about 3.30 About a 5 mile march to Les Brebis where we were billeted for the night. Not a bad town. Arrived here about 6.30 Visited a few café’s after tea but we had not got much money. I have run across a chap I know at last. Same name as myself. I worked with him at Eydon Hall & had visited him occasionally. I was pleased to meet an old acquaintance. The sgt. has been wondering where his Cpls Co have got to. 

Thursday 6th 

Living in hopes of being paid, but we are doomed to disappointment. Another kit inspection. Had a look round the mine which is close to our billet. Was initiated into the mysteries of Solo Whist & Bridge today. Quite interested in it. In the evening tried crib. 

Friday 7th Played cards nearly all day today. Of course Bridge. What a fishy evening. We went out shopping, but had not got much money. So we knocked off 8 red herrings. It is a scream schemeing how to raise the wind to get a drink. But we are quite enjoying the experience. It provides us with much fun. 

Saturday 8th

Had our red herrings for breakfast. Not bad. Moved up to the trenches at 4 o’clock. What a sight lay before us on the march. Impossible to describe it. It must have been a pretty part around here before the war. Went through the ruined villages of Bully, Grenay & Maroc. In reserve trenches. Got a fine dugout. Went out raiding other dugouts. Found some furniture & a good mirror. We found it a bit draughty.

   

Sunday 9th 

Not much stirring. Bit of a strafeing going on. Had a game of crib. Had to go to Les Brebis after dinner to be questioned about munition work. Nothing doing though. All a wash out. The choir got going tonight. Hymns etc. In the midst of it in walked Bill Coe back from leave. He got a cheer. He brought back a bottle of whiskey. Livened the school up. Turned 10 before we quietened down. 

Monday 10th 

As soon as we get settled down in a comfortable place we have to shift. Off to the front line to night on top of a slag heap. Going up we fancied we were mountaineers. A draughty show. We could very well do without being perched up so high in the world. 

Tuesday 11th 

What strange places we get put on. Here we are perched up on top of a slag heap. We hold half and the “Huns” hold the rest. We have no dugouts. Simply a covered in trench. When we try & pack down at night first comes an R.E’s working party through, then bombers etc etc. And of course we get kicked & trampled on. Went without dinner today. Saving it until tomorrow & then we’ll have a blow out. A draughty show up here. On duty from 9 to 12 A.M. & 12 to 3 midnight. 

Wednesday 12th Could not obtain much rest during the night. Working parties backwards & forwards & kicking & treading on us. Discuss amongst ourselves the possibility of getting relieved. Got well strafed at mid-day. Extra specials bombs & shells. When it was all over we looked more like miners. Haynes & Peck got buried just as they had finished making dinner. They managed to get out unaided & rescued the dinner as well. We said good bye to the slack heap at 10 o’clock. We didn’t want it. Went back into supports. Then had to be a carrying party. Turned in at 4 A.M. 

Thursday 13th 

Cooked our own breakfast this morning & much we appreciated it. We stood to this morning in bed. Bridgy cooked the dinner. He smacked the meat about a bit & fried it. It wasn’t as bad. Just commencing tea and two of the Hun’s extra special rum jar came over. They sounded near hear but they were a decent way off. Our dugout is called the Shoo Inn & we have got the sign up. A very large shoe nailed up. 

Friday 14th 

Had a good breakfast. Beaucoup Bacon. I & Bridge made a fine stew. A trench mix up. But the boys quite enjoyed it. I was the stoker. Relieved tonight at 7.30 Had a good game of cards while waiting for the relief. Back in reserve now at the Garden City. It has been a fine place. We got a bit of a reception by shells when coming in. Shrapnel. Went out exploring & found several useful articles. Got a stock of wood in & made ourselves comfortable. Sat round the fire until 12 0’clock. 

Saturday 15th 

Our school had five parcels last night so we can have a right royal feast. Had a good wash shave & brush up. Hot water. First wash for 4 days. Had a good spread for dinner so didn’t want much tea. After tea played solo whist & crib. Went out & replenished our stock of wood. The rest of the boys are trying to get Bill Coe drunk on rum. Burning the midnight oil again. 

Sunday 16th 

I acted the Mary Ann this morning. Bacon & sausage & fried bread for breakfast. Jim had to leave at dinner time to go billeting. Packed up this afternoon & then cut a few idiotic capers. Left the Garden city at Maroc about 5 o’clock. When we got to Les Brebis we put our packs on a motor lorry. Then we had a tidy march to Fond Sain. It appears to be a quiet place. Bridge went out and raised the wind. 5 fr to the good now. Pommes der terres supper. 

Monday 17th 

How nice the people here are. As soon as I got up this morning the dame opposite wanted to know if we wanted any coal. At course we jumped at the offer. Played the 23rd at football this afternoon. We won by 4-1. Quite a laughable match. Conducted the band after tea. A short rehearsal. C-White has raised the wind tonight. Went into the maison opposite and finished up with having a French lesson. Trés bien. Invited to go tomorrow. Hot Vin Rouge & beaucoup sugar before retiring. 

Tuesday 18th 

Bridge & White & A Young had to go on a working party mending roads. But they were back by dinner time. We passed the time away kicking the ball about until we busted it. Paid this afternoon. A niggardly 10 fr. Had a luxury for tea. Jam tarts. Spent the evening in a café. Played Beach at solo patience. Then returned & had supper in the Old Lady’s opposite. A good wind up. Nearly broke. Paid 10 francs – In the Field Sauce, bread & cakes 3fr, Drinks 2fr 

Wednesday 19th 

Wally Vine is leaving us today. Sorry he is going in away. He is the sort of chap anyone would be proud to know. We all drank his health in hot Vin Rouge & sent him off with the best of wishes, & a verse of Auld Lang Syne. We shall miss him. Spent the evening in the house opposite. Playing cards & improving my knowledge of French. Our last night here. Vin Rouge 2fr 5c, Bread, cakes & onions, 3fr 5c 

Thursday 20th Another bath down the goal mine. A decent one too. A new change. Had some French Soup for tea at the old Ladys opposite. On the move up at 3.30. Had our packs carried to Les Brebis. We picked them up there. Marched right up the Loos Rd to the trenches. We are in support. Got a fair dugout. Wet night. 

Friday 21st 

Commence our standing to & standing down again. About 11 o’clock before we had breakfast. It has been fairly quiet here today. Had a stroll down to H Qtrs with Shrapnel Helmets. 

Saturday 22nd 

Able to enjoy a little charcoal fire today. It looks more easy. Everybody has got wind up about mines. Passed the afternoon away playing solo. 

Sunday 23rd Had to stand to this morning at 1 o’clock. We exploded a mine at 2 o’clock. I think we occupied the crater alright. It was a fairly quiet night considering. A quieter day than I expected it to be. Had a visit from Ted. No working party. 

Monday 24th 

I am the Cpls cook. So I get their tea ready while they are standing too. We go up to the front line to night for 4 days. The change was made alright.

Tuesday 25th 

Not many dug outs in our section of the line. A rotten front line. We are enfilated by Whiz Bangs. We got pretty well strafed today. I am not feeling up to the mark. 

Wednesday 26th 

Still being strafed pretty well. Had one or two Whiz Bangs on top of our dug out. But it stood it alright. Went and saw the Doctor to night, but he sent me back with some pills. Nuralgia I’ve got. My nerves seem very jumpy. 

Thursday 27th 

The Kaiser’s birthday. And haven’t they strafed us. Plenty of wind up flying about. I go to see the Doctor again to night. Evidently he thinks I am trying to kid him, but far from it. My nerves seem completely gone. He sent me round to the Bomb cellar to stop for the night. 

Friday 28th

Did not get much rest. Not a very enviable place to be in a bomb cellar. Plenty of shells dropping near here. So it was not much quieter than the trenches. The huns dropped weeping shells at Maroc. We could feel the effects of them when we went through. We were relieved to night. I got out a bit earlier than the company. Waited at Les Brebis for them. Our packs were carried. 

Saturday 29th 

Did not reach our billets until 1 o’clock. They put us in a fresh billet. We didn’t like that. So as soon as we could we got our old billet back again. That pleased the old lady. As soon as we had cleaned ourselves up we had to go out on a working party. Making a road. But we didn’t do much work. Bombing one another with our patent bomb gun. 

Sunday 30th 

Church Parade this morning. First Sunday out for quite a long time. Paid again this afternoon. Returned & played cards. Solo whist. Had a jolly good tea. My nuralgia is no better, so I stay in. The others go out and & return slightly elevated. Paid 20 francs – In the Field Pickles 1fr 9c 

Monday 31st 

Working party but I am not on it. Baths this morning. Went & listened to the sweet strains of a band after dinner. The 21st band. Stayed in after tea. On guard to night. “Thy sentinel am I” (in bed).

FEBRUARY 1916 - BEHIND THE LINES

Tuesday 1st

The Day for going up has come round once again. Had a bonne dinner to day. Pork chops, Pommes der terres, Xmas pudding & blanc mange. Aeroplane dropped bombs in the vicinity of this place to day. Moved off at 5 o’clock. Packs carried to Les Brebis. In support Sap 6. Same place as we have been in before.

Wednesday 2nd

How quiet is has been to day. Quieter than we have ever had it before up this part. Able to have a little game of cards.

Thursday 3rd

Still fairly quiet. Quite a change. Had to go & fetch the water after dinner. At Maroc they told me that I had to go into Bully Grenay for it. We go up the front line to night. As usual A Platoon stands the zig. From all accounts it is not a very pleasant show. Only 30 yds from the Germans. But we have got a good dug out. That is something.

Friday 4th

Got the fire going before it was light. We have to keep very low in this trench. So far it has been quiet enough. Hope it gets no noisier. On patrol duty from 6 to 9. Rained slightly and made the trench very sticky.

Saturday 5th

We are still having it fairly quiet. Jolly thankful for it too. I leave here at 4 o’clock. Am going on a bombing course for 8 days. When I reach the S.Ms dug out I find that the course has been cancelled as we are leaving the Div. So I packed up for nothing. Patrol from 6 to 9. Fancy we have discovered the Germans mining.

Sunday 6th

Still keeps quiet. Being relieved to night. Relief did not come in until about 10 o’clock. Going into support. As soon as we got there we heard that we were only staying there 3 hrs. So made some tea & opened our parcels and had a spread. Tried to have a sleep but no go.

Monday 7th

Had us up at 3.30, but what a time we were in getting out. Only just managed to get through Maroc by dark. Breakfast at Les Brebis. Marched to Vaudricourt. Had to call at the Chateau for the C.G to have a look at us. What a fine time the others have had at Vaudricourt. It is a fine place. Busy cleaning up equipment & buttons, so had not much chance to go out

Tuesday 8th

Inspection by the General at 12 o’clock. Of course beforehand we had to have a few prelims. Rained a bit. He made a speech & bid us good bye. The rest of the day we had free. Paid a visit to the house we visited when we were here before. Had a fine sleep last night. Spent the evening at un estamient.

Wednesday 9th

Should have been up at 4 AM but overslept until 5 AM. Then had to bustle about. Our tea & bacon got kicked over. Left Vaudricourt at 8 AM & marched to Bethune. Cattle trucks for carriages. Had a fire in the truck. Made some water hot in a water bottle to make some tea. I went to take the cork out and steam all blew in my face. Luckily we had some vasaline handy. It gave me what o for a bit. Left the train at Pont Remy. Then had a 6 mile march. And what a march. Over a desolate dreary country. ½ past 8 when we arrived here tired & hungry. We soon procured some grub.

Thursday 10th

Turned 8 before we got up this morning. Breakfast about 10. Then cleaning up billets & rifle & billet inspection. The name of this place is Airaines. My face is not as bad this morning. Must consider myself lucky. What a game trotting up the street full Pack after tea. We have change our billet. Not as well off this time. Got to put up with the S.Ms presence & his banjo. Got back to night & found that the S.M had removed his presence.

Friday 11th

Busy this morning scrubbing equipment. Raining hard. Had a game of cannon in a Café with Arthur. He beat me. The Sgts shifted their quarters this afternoon so we collared their place. Got paid after tea. Then spent the evening in the Café.

Paid 20 francs - Airanes

Saturday 12th

Another busy day. Got to do our equipment with Blanco now. We manage it eventually. Then cleaning up brass for tomorrow’s parade. Warned for guard then the order cancelled. Bridgy gets it in my place.

Sunday 13th

On Picquet duty at ¼ to 9. Then take equipment to pieces ready for Church Parade. Belt & sidearms & smoke Helmet. Service in the M/sex’s recreation room. Not bad. Spent the evening playing cards. A draft arrived for us today.

Monday 14th

Started work this morning. Parade from 9 to 12. Then from 2 to 3. Changed billets again. We have got the draft mixed in with us now so go back to the 4 Platoons. I am still No 2. We are in the cinema now. A concert was given by the H.2 Pierott troupe in the cinema. It was jolly good.

Tuesday 15th

Start work on the daft today. They are intermingled with the old boys. They didn’t expect to do drills out here. They want to get up into the trenches but when they get there they will be glad to get back. Lecture after dinner on care of arms. Refreshing my memory. Spent the evening in the café at the front of our billet. Quite nice people there. Had a bonne dinner. Pork chop, Pommes der terres frit & beans.

Wednesday 16th

Running Parade 7 to 7.30 then busy getting out various information for the Brigade. Very wet morning they took us out drilling in it from 11 to 12. Lecture from 2 to 3 by the S.M. Then we got paid. That was the most important feature of the day. Spent the evening as usual.

Paid 20 francs - Airaines

Thursday 17th

Up with the larks & out running. Had a route march of 2 hrs duration. Grand country. It should do us a world of good. Blow all the smells off of us. Another lecture in the afternoon on Gas etc. Spent the evening as usual. I shall miss my bed mate to night. He is on Guard to night.

Friday 18th

Had our usual run. After breakfast it set in wet so we did some drill in our billet. But we went out in it for an hour 11 to 12 for company drill. After dinner the draft was inspected by some General. I had to superintend the bathing of some of the old boys. The bath was a wooden coffin box arrangement. It caused some mess. A hand of cards in the Café brought the evening to a close.

Saturday 19th

On parade at ¼ to 8 for a bath. Only two mile to march. When we got there found that there was no clean clothes for us. Kit inspection when we got back. Saturday afternoon off. So spend the afternoon lying about generally. Right half Batt played left half Batt. Right half won. I was not selected. A fine football pitch we have got. Right on top of the hills. Evening spent as before in our café.

Sunday 20th

Church parade at 10 o’clock. Spent the afternoon writing letters. A company played C company at football. I did not play but we won. For a change passed the evening reading. It has been a lovely day.

Monday 21st

Same old rigmarole this morning. Spend the morning shouting. My platoon on picket to day. Gas helmet practice after dinner. We play B Cpy football this afternoon. I turn out and score a goal. We won 3 to 1. Commence my duties as orderly Sgt. No reading in bed this week.

Tuesday 22nd

Spent the morning instructing the draft how to dig trenches. They did very well. Route march after dinner. Officers v men at football this afternoon. Snow stopped the match the Officers leading by 1 to 0. Turned very cold.

Wednesday 23rd

Route march this morning. Full marching order. Back at 12 0’clock. Lovely country. Snow all about. Very hilly. Sweaty feet inspection after dinner.

Thursday 24th

No entry

Paid 30 francs – Airaines

Friday 25th

Changed Billets. Another draft joined us. S.M. Godfrey joined us again. Had to get packed up all in a hurry. Rumours that we were going up but it came to nothing.

Saturday 26th

Inspection off owing to the weather. On fatigue party cleaning snow of the roads from the baths to Longprés. Concert in the evening by the Jovilians. Very good.

Sunday 27th

Up at 5 AM. Rushing about getting packed up. On the move at 8.30. Marched through Longprés Flixcourt to St Ouen. Got a bed in a private house. What a treat for us.

Monday 28th

Had a fine sleep. Two hours drill this morning. Last night of my duties. Inspection tomorrow.

Tuesday 29th

Inspected by the General of our Brigade. Turned out a lovely morning. Hand over at 1 o’clock today. N.C.Os parade at 2.30 under the S.M.

MARCH 1916 - ON THE MARCH

Wednesday 1st

Promotions out today. I get another rise. L/Sgt now. Parade again after dinner under the S.M. Got our stripes up today & so escape going on guard. Got a jolly decent billet. The old man where we live showed us over the factory where he worked. It is a string, cord & rope factory. Very large place. Very interesting. It is surprising what processing it has to go through before it becomes a finished product.

Thursday 2nd

Extended order drill today. Encore this afternoon under the tudorship of the S.M. Had some good meals today. Our first experience of a Sgts mess. In the dark going after some supper I went sprawling over a heap of mud lying in the road. Needless to say I returned without the supper.

Friday 3rd

Still on extended order. Same after dinner only a bit stiffer. Doubling over ploughed fields. Sgt Wright got reduced to Cpl today. Another payday. Pretty frequent lately.

Paid 30 francs – St Ouen

Saturday 4th

More extended drill. Had an afternoon off this afternoon. Went round to Beache’s show & played solo in the evening. Paid a visit to the factory but got turned out as we had no permission. Had our Photo’s taken together.

Sunday 5th

Church Parade at 10 o’clock. Had a bath after dinner in our diggings. Spent the evening round the fire.

Monday 6th

Batt route march. Set out at 9 o’clock. On the way we did blobbing. Blobbed 4 times. Over ploughed fields. No bon in full pack. Orders to night that we have got to sleep in the billets with the men. So good bye to bed.

Tuesday 7th (Shrove Tuesday)

B.O.S to day. So I miss all parades. Had to take the defaulters this afternoon. Two hrs route march. Then had to be outside the Or Room for them to answer to me. So I got fairly stung. Forgot all about our pancakes.

Wednesday 8th

More extended Order drill. Picked up plenty of mud. At it again after dinner. Rehearsing for the morrow. A Coy stick it well. Still sleeping on the hard hard floor.

Thursday 9th

Made two practice attacks this morning. Covered ourselves in mud but not much glory. Had the afternoon off so we went for our Photos. Found that they had come out rotten so we sit again. Where we have our mess they made some pancakes today so they gave us some. So we kept up the old custom if it was a day or so late.







Friday 10th

Woke up to find snow on the ground. Usual game. Another practice attack, but no lying down this time. S.M’s parade this afternoon. Got paid again to night.

Paid 20 francs – St Ouen

Saturday 11th

The Capt got the S.M to drill us this morning so we spent all the morning on drill instead of doing a 2 hrs route march as arranged. Had the afternoon off. Busy in the evening as we are shifting to-morrow. I went to see Grandma & she bid me adieu in French Fashion.

Sunday 12th

Up at 5 AM. Busy getting packed up. Bid adieu to our French Hosts. They were quite affected. Almost to tears. On the move at 9 AM. Through Canaples. Up hills. What a march. It was quite a Spring day. Billeted in a large farm. Resting 4 days here. The name if this place is Beauval.

Monday 13th

Soon made a start on drill. Out this morning at 9 until 12 o’clock. Extended order. Getting up and down practice. Lovely day. Quite like Spring.

Tuesday 14th

Up early this morning, packing up getting ready for another move. What a march. 14 miles & to finish up with we had to go up a fairly steep hill. With the Officer walking by the side shouting left right. Got on our nerves. We got to our fresh billets somewhere about 3 o’clock. It is only a little Hamlet set out of sight amongst the trees. No shops.

Wednesday 15th

Turned us into road sweepers to day, Shifting all the mud and digging drains. Had the afternoon off. Had a lovely walk after tea. I quite enjoyed it. We went into Rebreuviette to get some Quaker Oats. It is a lovely sight round here. We are having Spring weather now.

Thursday 16th

Should have done a route march but orders came through for a working party to dig some bombing trenches at Rebreuviette. Lovely day. Did 4 hrs work. Had the afternoon off.

Friday 17th

N.C.Os parade this morning. Working party this afternoon. Same job. Another new draft joined us today. Some of the old chaps returned. The R.S.M. partook of some of my biscuits from Deganwy

Saturday 18th

Went to an exhibition this morning. A demonstration of a German fire attack. It was a very interesting. The machine was one captured from the Germans at Hooge. After-dinner we did some more extended order attacking. Finished up in the rain. Got paid after tea.

Paid 25 francs - Canottement

Sunday 19th

Church Parade at 11 o'clock. After dinner I & Charlie White went out on pass. We went to Frevent. Had a nice time. Nice walk about 5 miles. I bought a wristwatch 25 Frs. It has been a lovely day. Leave has started again.

Monday 20th

Tactical exercises today watched by the Brigadier. Covered about 3 miles across country in Full Pack. Very interesting. On Picquet to night.

Tuesday 21st

Full pack route march. Did about 9 miles. Took over Or. Sgt at 1 o’clock. Arthur Young goes on leave to morrow morning.

Wednesday 22nd

What a lark. Arthur Young misses his train and has to stay a day in Frevent. No S.M’s Parade. Rather damp.

Thursday 23rd

Batt Route march. The same journey as the other day only reversed. But this time we lost ourselves & therefore we were out until 1 o’clock. No further Parades. A bit colder.

Friday 24th

Woke up this morning and found about 3” of snow on the ground. But it did not put a stop to our tactical exercises. Still in extended order work. More sliding down deep ravines.

Saturday 25th

What a joke. What a scream. Have been wandering round this bit of France with a gun on our shoulders. Like a lot of Cook’s tourist. You will notice this etc. Afternoon off.

Sunday 26th

Church Parade in our barn owing to the wet. I got told off by the Captain for not telling him the alteration of orders. Our Coy played the champion Coy of the Brig cup the 7 M/sex Semi final. Unfortunately we lost 3 to 2. Good game.

Paid 20 francs - Canottement

Monday 27th

More tactical exercises. To day more interesting. C-Coy were the enemy. We the attackers. Of course we won. To night when taking orders my name was read out for leave. What a shock. Am going on Wednesday all being well. Wet day.

Tuesday 28th

Special operation orders to day. Each company had to meet at a certain village (Magnicourt) at a certain time. Coy Commander had to arrange his own time for starting. As usual we had a good trot round. S.Ms parade after dinner. I handed over Or Sgt to J Norman & jolly glad too.

Wednesday 29th

The S.M took the company this morning. N.C.Os in the afternoon. I should have gone on leave to night, but am disappointed. The port keeps being closed.

Thursday 30th

Easy morning this morning. I have got a guard on this afternoon. On Brigade dump way down Rebreuviette. I don’t know what they want to send me for. It is nothing. Only minding ration waggons in the road. Have heard that I am going on leave to morrow night.

Friday 31st

Managed to get a few hours kip. Lovely morning. Missed the Brigade attack. Off at last. No turning back this time. Got to Frevent about 9.15. Put up in a hut for the night.

APRIL 1916 - BLIGHTY AND BACK

Saturday 1st 

Up early this morning. Had café & eggs in the Hotel du nord. Entrained at 6 o’clock. Started at 6.30. The train journey was like the usual run of train journeys. Got to Le Havre at 10 o’clock. Was not long in getting on the boat. I slept through the voyage. Pretty smooth I believe.

Sunday 2nd 

Blighty at last. In dock about 7.30. Had a good run up to town. Got home about 11.30. Wasn’t they all surprised. After dinner, I, Mother & Ethel went down to Ern’s & spent the rest of the day there. Coming back we heard bombs, but saw no Zepps. 

Monday 3rd 

Paid a visit to the Army Pay Office. Then went to the Coliseum. In the evening called on Charlie. He was in the midst of moving. 

Tuesday 4th 

Caught the 10 A.M train for Romiley. Got to Chinley & found no connection for Romiley until 5PM. So went on to M/chester & caught the train from London Rd. Got to Romiley about 5PM. Had one of the usual old times walks. 

Wednesday 5th 

Should have gone to see Tom but I missed the train. So called on Mr Thompson & Mr Townsend. After dinner went to Handforth to see Ben, but he had gone to Alderley Edge. So we went in vain. Tea at Stockport & went to pictures. 

Thursday 6th 

Went & saw Tom this morning. He looks pretty bad. Ben got the afternoon off so was able to see him. Missed my train so came on the midnight mail. 

Friday 7th 

Arrived in St Pancras about 6.45. Got home at 7.30. Wet morning but turned out nice later on. Had dinner at Aunt Emily’s, then went down to Ern’s, but found Flo out. Had tea round at Mrs Markwells. I gave Bundy a look up. 

Saturday 8th 

Went & saw Wally Vine this morning at his office. Returned & did not go out any more. Ern & Flo came over & stayed the night. 

Sunday 9th 

My last Sunday in Angleterre. Time soon goes. Busy packing up. Left home at 2.30. Ern & Flo & Ethel & Lottie came & see me off. Left Waterloo at 4 o’clock. Got to S/ton about 6.30. Went straight on the boat. A fine big boat. Left at 7.30. When we got out of the Solent I turned down below for a sleep. We all had to wear life belts. 

Monday 10th 

Le Havre at 2 o’clock. Then entrained & left there at 5.30. Lovely morning. We are all much quieter going back than when we were coming. Arrived in Frévent at 8.45. Spent the night in the rest camp. Soon went off to sleep. 

Tuesday 11th 

Up at 6.45. Had breakfast in the Café du Nord. Fried Eggs. Rejoined the Batt at 10.30. The others gave me a warm welcome. Found that J. Norman had sprained his ankle. Lecture by the R.S.M on how to keep an Orderly Book. Wet day. 

Wednesday 12th 

On Gymnastic instruction this morning. Rained nearly all day. Spent the afternoon writing & the evening playing cards. 

Thursday 13th 

On Gymnastic instruction again this morning. Busy dodging in and out of the canteen owing to the rain. Arrival of the draft to day. 

Friday 14th 

Same routine this morning. Very interesting. S.M parade after dinner until 3 P.M. Stayed in after tea. Draft on Parade on their own under the S.M. 

Saturday 15th 

B.O.S to day. Spent the morning visiting billets & looking at dinners. Played the R.F.A at football this afternoon. Lost by 3 to 1. Good game. Paid 20 francs - Canottement 

Sunday 16th 

Church Parade at 11 o’clock. Drums turn out for the first time. Made the affair quite swanky. Our coy is playing the rest of the Batt at football this afternoon. I cry off and proceed to Frévent with Charlie White. Nearly spent out. 

Monday 17th 

Woke up and found it raining heavily. Gym class postponed. Went on the S.Ms parade in loose order ready for gym inst but got ticked off. Went to practice bayonet sticking but the weather was against us. 

Tuesday 18th 

Gym Inst in the canteen owing to the wet. The others went on a route march in it. I take over Or Sgt & had a long string of defaulters. 

Wednesday 19th 

Rained practically all day but it did not stop the run in the morning. Bayonet fighting in the rain & slush. Nothing doing this afternoon. Had the drill Instructor to dinner. Provided him with chicken etc. 

Thursday 20th 

Spent the morning on the range. I had a pot but did not do much. Very showery. Draft on parade on their own this afternoon. 

Friday 21st (Good Friday) 

Only did an hours drill this morning. Church parade in the afternoon. Draft was inspected by the G.O.C. Turned out very wet after Church Parade so duties mounted under Coy arrangements. 

Saturday 22nd 

Rained practically all day long. Road cleaning again this morning. Most of the Coy went to the baths but I could not go. 

Sunday 23rd (Easter Sunday & St George’s Day) 

Church Parade & a short route march as well. We had the drums leading, so we did it in style. The flutes led the singing. Turned out a lovely day. 

Monday 24th 

Lovely warm day. Spent our Easter Monday morning doing a route march. N.C.Os parade for a dress rehearsal of falling in with the drums. A most note worthy day. Duties mounted with the drums. And then the drums marched the duties round the village. The fame of our S.M will surely spread all over France. I suppose that soon we shall do everything to the sound of the rat tat & roll. Night operations from 8 to 9. Not much done. 

Tuesday 25th 

In charge of a fatigue party. Lovely warm day. The heat made me feel very tired. On the S.M parade. I handed over Or Sgt at dinner time and not sorry. Night Ops again. S.M gone on leave. 

Wednesday 26th 

Still keeps very warm. A bit of all sorts this morning. Went down to the baths this afternoon. No night ops to night. Instead a lecture a lecture on an interesting stunt we are doing to morrow. 

Thursday 27th 

Up at 5 o’clock & on the road at 7 AM. Today our interesting stunt comes off. A prize is offered to the best Coy. Our Coy is last and by the time we had done our 900 yds we were like a grease spot. It was hot & full pack as well. However we did not do so bad, but did not win the prize. Night ops to night. I don’t feel up to the mark to night. Went in the woods & tried to loose ourselves but it did not come off. 

Friday 28th 

Busy on the range to-day. At 7 o’clock practised the fall in by the drum under the S.M. On the range after dinner as well. Finished with a competition in rapid firing. I did not do so bad. 27 rounds I got off & registered 25 hits in two minutes. Night ops again to night. 

Saturday 29th 

 On Brigade Dump Guard this afternoon so strike oil and miss the Batt route march this morning. Still glorious weather. Bivouac out tonight. Get a good fire going so was jolly cosy. Got paid before leaving for guard. Kept awake by reading a novel. Paid 20 francs - Canottement 

Sunday 30th Had a few winks from 1.30 to 6. Then packed up and had a wash. Heard the cuckoo this morning for the first time. It is lovely out. I & Jim had a stroll down to Frévent after dinner. Had a nice time down there.

MAY 1916 - DEATH AND CAPTAIN CHRISTMAS

Monday 1st 

Another early route march. Jolly hot. Should have been parade this afternoon but was cancelled. Blankets & Waterproof capes had to be given in. A sure sign of summer. J Norman goes on leave tonight. I had to go with 4 men & take charge of Blanket waggons to the laundry. Walked all the way but rode back. Got back about 8 o’clock. 

Tuesday 2nd 

B.O.S to day. Drilling defaulters this afternoon while the birds are singing lovely. Thunderstorm somewhere. But we did not get much of it. Played the privates of our Coy at football after duties mounted & we lost by 2 to none. Exciting game. Busy getting ready for tomorrow. 

Wednesday 3rd 

Up at 4.30 A.M. Shifted off at 7 A.M. Not too bad marching. Not quite as hot. Halted at mid-day at 10.30. Should have started again at 12.30 but the road is under observation so we had to remain in the wood until dark. Lovely spot where we stopped. After dinner the band played to us. We had a game of cards. It is more like a picnic at home. On the move again at 7.30. Reached our destination at 10.30 & glad to get there. Resting for the night in canvas huts. Rather cold sleeping.

Thursday 4th 

 Up at 6.30, & cleaned up ready for moving up to the trenches at 9 o’clock. Platoon Sgts have got to take over all stores. Another lovely morning. Hear the guns going plainly now. On the way up we stop at the Ex Force Canteen. Quite a decent step up. Reached the trenches about 11.30. It seems a decent show. The village has not been knocked about much. Plenty of fruit trees about. If we work it the same as the reg we relieve we shall have a desent time. Busy all afternoon taking over stores. The coy came in about 5 o’clock. Between 7.30 & 8 they started throwing those big bombs on our left. I was on duty from 8 to 10. Then packed down in the sig dugout. Hebuterne village where our trenches are.

 

Friday 5th 

A burning shame. Our chaps have to stick in the trenches day & night & cannot go back into the houses during the day time. So really they have no where to sleep comfortably. I was on duty from 4 A.M to 8 A.M. Then had a kip in the sig dug out until dinner time. In the Sigs Dug Out is a cat with 4 kittens. It gets looked after alright & seems quite at home. Artillery has been a bit active this afternoon. It looks like rain. I do the last patrol so turn in after stand down. 

Saturday 6th 

Up at 2 A.M. & found that we had had some rain. But was beginning to clear up. Feels rather colder. Rather windy. Had hopes of being relieved tonight, but were doomed to disappointment. Instead of going out we went up into the front line. Nearly all the Batt is in now. A Coy stands the zig again. On duty from 10 to 12. Pretty quiet day. Rained again after dark. 

Sunday 7th 

This morning went down to the cooker for breakfast. Quite a treat. The boys are busy in the front line scraping the bricks. The Huns did quite a lot of strafing this afternoon. I suppose it was Sunday with them. A heavy bombardment took place on our right to night. Lasted a few hours. Pat Dwyer goes out on patrol & has a thrilling time according to his reports ! 

Monday 8th 

Quite cold this morning. Very windy & rainy. We are being relieved this afternoon by the 7th M/sex. We are going to Bayencourt. Relief came in at ¼ to 3 & we lost no time in getting out. Had a hail storm on the way out. Took us about 2 hrs to reach our billets. Found a big draft awaiting us. So that made us busy allotting them to the different platoons. Made ourselves look a bit respectable. 

Tuesday 9th 

Draft only on Parade this morning but they could not do much owing to it raining. Tried again after dinner but did not keep it up long. Sgt of the Picquet to night. But did not mount ceremonial owing to the rain. Paid out to night so that spoiled another evening. Paid 20 francs - Bayencourt 

Wednesday 10th 

Turned out better to day. 9 to 12 Coy drill. No parade in the afternoon. Working party to night up the front line. Left here at 7 o’clock. Working in Tommy trench cleaning the dirt from the top prior to deepening it. Very quiet night. Back to Billet about 2.30. Bed at dawn. 

Thursday 11th 

Up at 8 o’clock. On parade at 11 AM. Coy orders from 12 to 1.45. All Sgts on the peg again. Highly amusing. Missed our dinner over it. Had to hurry on the S.Ms Parade. Night ops to night. Patrol work. 

Friday 12th 

Is there a war on ? I am in charge of a party cleaning up the road & digging channels. Like a District Council roadganger. And we are only about 3 miles from the firing line. All the Coy was on the job from 7 to 8. Lovely day. Owing to this fatigue party I did not go on the S.Ms parade. Working party to night started earlier. Working on the communication trench leading to an advance trench. Up to 11 o’clock it was very quiet. Just after 11 several shells came over & quite upset the apple cart. I had a close shave. Got out of the trench a few minutes previous & laid in a shell hole during the time. The chap I had been standing next to was killed. I stayed behind to collect tools & rifles. 

Saturday 13th 

Jolly tired when I got in this morning, wet through. What a state I was in. I didn’t need any rocking. Up at 9 o’clock. Wet morning. No morning parade. Lecture after dinner. Night Ops cancelled owing to rain. So was glad to get to bed early. 

Sunday 14th 

Gas helmet practice this morning from 9 to 12. Voluntary Church parade this morning in the Cinema. We had a full house. And it was very good. Had an old time Sunday afternoon 40 winks. Working party again to night. Hope it is not like the last one. Had a quiet night & a easy job. Were finished by 11.30. The rain kept off. 

Monday 15th 

Rev at 8. Kit inspection this morning. Wet morning. S.M’s parade after dinner. Cannot let us alone. Had a game of solo after tea. Before retiring had a few harmonious selections. Bombardment going on on our left. 

Tuesday 16th 

Was awakened just before 1 o’clock by a terrific bombardment that was going on. It seemed to have got down to our Sector. Had to stand to & pack up. Got the cooks to make some tea. Stood down again at 3 0’clock & went to sleep again. Off up to the line at 9.30. Advance party to take over. Expected to find the village smashed about more, but it had not been touched. We are in the village first. I am staying at the Chateau. Aeroplanes very active. Had some time fuses drop very close. Lovely day. Had to stand to in a trench from 8 to 9. Then went & had a kip. 

Wednesday 17th 

Stand to at 2.30 to 3.30 A.M. Breakfast at 5 A.M. Then continued my sleep. Went to the baths but when we got there we found that the pump had broken down, so came away unwashed. Another sleep after dinner. Owing to the fact of being Or. Sgt I miss the working party tonight. The Huns have got a new patent idea for bringing down aeroplanes. They look like silver bullets chasing one another up. They are fired from a pom pom I should think & no doubt are of an inflamable nature. The idea being to set the plane afire. 

Thursday 18th 

Very misty this morning at Stand too. Did very well for sleep to day. Working party to-night up the front line. Started at 8 o’clock. Pretty lively. Cpt Christmas captures 2 Huns, but in so doing got wounded himself. Went out with the SM. Looking for Cabbages. Found plenty of gooseberrys & currants. Someone got the wind up about mid night & made everybody stand to including all the working party. 

Friday 19th 

Had to work until 2 o’clock. Then we packed up & had to stand too. Breakfasted & packed down for a sleep. Take over the front line after dinner. Arrive there alright. Extremely quiet. Hope it keeps so while we are in. Very warm. The weather is too good for this game. Heard that Cpt Christmas has pegged out. Very sorry to hear it. I am the engineering Sgt to night. Have to repair all the parapets. Very busy. At it all night. A little bit of excitement amongst the patrols to night. 

Follow the link to view the Commonwealth War Graves Commission commemorative certificate for Captain Bernard Lovell Christmas Captain Bernard Lovell Christmas | War Casualty Details 278270 | CWGC 

Saturday 20th 

Finished my job at Stand down & got congratulated for the work done. Go & get my breakfast, & then turn in to kip. Sleep until about 12 o’clock. Then dinner & on with work again. On duty from 9 to 12. Trench packed with chaps working. What a hullaballo at times. Sgt Norman went out on patrol & nearly got discovered. Very quiet night. Still keeps very hot. Various rumours floating through the air. 

Sunday 21st 

On duty from 6 to 9. Managed to get ½ hours sleep after breakfast. Managed a shave & a wash with the shaving brush this morning. Were relieved about 5.30PM by the L.R.B. We had just got clear of Tommy St when a coal box demolished a house stand at the top of the trench. I collected the Platoon & cleared off, in case there was any more knocking about. The band joined us on the road & livened us up a bit. 

Monday 22nd 

No stand to this morning. So laid in until 7AM. Only a clean fatigue parade & a kit inspection. I am busy being Or.Sgt. Lovely day. Very hot. We are all getting wind up over the rumours about digging a new advanced trench at Hebuterne. 

Tuesday 23rd 

Road cleaners again from 7 to 8. Had to listen whilst Army Act No 44 was read out. Nearly drove me to sleep. Paying out after dinner. This afternoon went & inspected a 9.2 Gun. It was very interesting. What a shell they fire. I should not like one to hit me, or to be near one when it fell. Sudden order for night Ops came in at 5PM. Full dress rehearsal for the digging affair. Of course we had a good march. We did it very well. Shan’t mind if we do as well on the night. Got back about 10.30. 

Wednesday 24th 

Up at 7AM. Had a pow wow from 9 to 11 about the coming stunt. Rained after dinner. I had a sleep. Waited until 10 o’clock before we moved off to practice the coming stunt. Not so bad. Got back at 2AM. 

Thursday 25th 

Rev was at 7.30, but we made it at 8.30. Only an hours parade this morning. Very showery. Lecture on the forthcoming stunt after dinner. No night Ops to night. Jim has left with the covering party to take up his residence at Sailly for the next few days. Hope all goes well with him. Had a good supper of rabbit & apricots & vin rouge. 

Friday 26th 

Had an extra lay in this morning. The G.O.C gave us a speech this morning at 11.30. Busy all day running here & a lecture there. At last the hour arrives for the great adventure. We reach Hebuterne alright and wait in the Orchard. When our platoon got out in No Man’s Land we found we were not wanted in the front line so we went back & worked on the communicator. A few shells & minnie’s flying about otherwise rather quiet. Quieter than I expected. 

Saturday 27th 

We straggled along homeward bound & got to St Amand about 3.30. Had breakfast & went to bed. Up again about 12 o’clock. Everybody said we had done fine. Parade again at 4.30 for more digging. Support trenches to night. Met in the Orchard again. Didn’t take long to get to work & get down. More strafeing to night. But not as much as I expected. Rotten job getting out. Very slow. 

Sunday 28th 

A bit later getting back. A few more casualties last night. When we got back to billets we heard that Jim Norman has been hit & severely wounded. Am awfully sorry to hear that. Also hear that Daines has been wounded. I & Charlie & Arthur go to Souastre to Church after tea. On the way we make enquiries about Jim. We find him in the field ambulance & see him. He does look bad. It is awful to see him. He recognises me. Hope he will recover. Full house at Church to night. Artillery a bit lively during the night. 

Monday 29th 

Orders for a full pack inspection under Cot arrangements. That got altered and we had to become road sweepers again. About 11 o’clock we had news that poor old Jim was dead, also Daines. I feel awfully cut up about it. Burying poor old Jim in the cemetery at St Amand. So went & paid my last respects to his memory. I, Arthur, Charlie & Paddy carried his body to the grave. At 4PM we lowered him into the grave. The Batt was strongly represented. All the Officers were present. In the evening I, Charlie & Arthur went to Bow Bells to hear the Div Concert Party. It was extra. Full house. Good singing & plenty of mirth. Met Edgar Wilson. 

Follow the links to view the Commonwealth War Graves Commission commemorative certificates for Serjeant James Frederick Norman Serjeant James Frederick Norman | War Casualty Details 278144 | CWGC  and Private Harry F Daines Private H F Daines | War Casualty Details 278043 | CWGC 

Sergeant Norman's parents James & Elizabeth were to suffer even greater sorrow in the years to come.

Their eldest son Gunner Sydney James Norman of 141 Heavy Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery was killed in action, 1st July 1917 and rests in the Hop Store Cemetery, Vlamertinghe in Belgium.

A younger brother, Rifleman William John Norman, King's Royal Rifle Corps (attached to the London Regiment, Queen Victoria's Rifles) was killed at the Gheluvelt Plateau, 10 August 1917 and he is commemorated on a tablet at the Tyne Cot Cemetery at Zonnebekke in Belgium.

A third son, Lance Corporal Frank Percy Norman, Railway Construcion Company, Royal Engineers died in the 2nd Australian Auxilliary Hospital at Southall, Middlesex, 19 March 1918.  Whether he died from wounding, accident or illness is unclear but it is both ironic and comforting that he would have been visited by his family who lived close by.

The fourth son who volunteered to fight, Colour Serjeant Horace Robert Norman, Royal Fusiliers, Machine Gun Corps survived the war and passed away in 1968.

Tuesday 30th 

About 1 AM orders came through to stand to. As soon as we had awakened the Platoons the orders came round to stand down. On working party all day. In the morning railway constructors. After dinner digging bomb trenches. I amused the Coy in general by giving them an exhibition of my patent bomb gun. After tea I & Charlie went & put an evergreen cross & flowers on Jim’s Grave. SM busy today making up the men’s kit. 

Wednesday 31st 

Another working party today. Shall be out all day. So we Sgts are going to make a pic-nic of it. We are going to the quarries near Henue. At the last minute Charlie & Welbourne get dismissed. So only I & Whyles go. What lovely country round here. It is a perfect day. Knocked off at 3.30. I plucked a wild rose. A nice perfume attached to it. Spent a quiet evening.

JUNE 1916 - PREPARING FOR THE BIG PUSH

Thursday 1st

Had 2 hrs drill this morning. Same old thing. Rifle exercises by numbers. Had the afternoon off. Another roll to day. Played the men at football this evening and reversed the result. We won by 1 to 0. Had a cold bath after. It was fine.

Friday 2nd

Spent an easy day to day. I had no working parties or parades to do. So had a short country ramble. Sgt Hawke rejoined us this afternoon & has been posted to No 3 Platoon. Had a good supper to night of rabbit & peaches & custard.

Saturday 3rd

Another working party this morning. Near Souastre digging a trench for telephone wires. I attend. Afternoon free except for a rifle inspection & a bit more about smoke helmets. Played the transport at football after tea & beat them by 3 to 1. Not much of a game. I played left back. Start cleaning up for guard on the morrow.

Sunday 4th

On Guard to day at Henu. Left St Amand at 9 o’clock & reached Henu at 9.45. Relieved Johnny Fox. Some guard judging by the noise. Am guarding the General of the division & the chateau where he hangs out. Cushy guard. Nothing doing. Very windy in the night.

Monday 5th

Dawn broke very cloudy & later on it commenced to rain but cleared up before I was relieved. Sgt West relieved me. He arrived before I was ready. But I soon got ready and we changed in style. Were paid after dinner & we celebrated it by a good supper. Sausages & tomatoe sauce & mashed potatoes. Peaches & Custard & Vin Blanc. Played the Privates of our Coy at football after tea. After an hours played the score was 1 each. We played an extra ½ hour but could not alter the score.

Tuesday 6th

Working party up the quarries at Henu. All day affair. When we got there it started raining so we sheltered. We made several attempts to start work by owing to the rain we had to pack up at dinner time. Cleared up after dinner. Played the Sigs after tea. A good game. We lost by 2 to 1. Only had 9 men first half. I played back.

Wednesday 7th

Working party on the cable trench this morning. Rather dull day. About 12.30 down came the soup so we packed up. Fine again by the time we got back. At 5.30 the batt. Paraded to see the presentation of cards to those men who distinguished themselves on the working party. Cpl Beach was the only one in A Coy. Had a bath to night.

Thursday 8th

Visit the Quarries to day to a little work. Had a stroll round and found a lovely little glade. Like the Goyt valley. Rather showery.

Friday 9th

Again visit the Quarries. Had a stroll round the woods & got lost, were away 1 ½ hrs. Went out to dinner. Had hot rolls, fried eggs & coffee. Played C Coy at football to night. Very unsatisfactory game. We lost 3 to 1. I again played back.

Saturday 10th

No working party to day. We go out to night instead. So one or two paltry parades arranged. But Bridge came over to inspect Gas Helmets & it raining heavily parades got cancelled. Cleared up a bit before we went out on the working party. To the left of the Corderoy track where we are working Cable track. Very quiet & Got slightly wet.

Sunday 11th

Had breakfast in bed ! this morning. Got up at 11.30 then the S.M had to lecture us at 12 o’clock. That lasted an hour then we got the news to be on parade at 1.30. Had to rush about to gratify the whim of a pompous monied Ld Mayor of London. After standing on parade for 3 hrs & he not turning up we chucked the game up. Off out again to night at 6.30. Same place. Very quiet.

Monday 12th

Got in at 2AM. Had some custard & tea. Roused up at 8AM for rolls draw rations etc. Those that have not been out do not care a scrap about the sleep of those that have. What a Whit Monday to be remembered. Rained nearly all day. Started raining again when we started on our working party. About 11 o’clock it was a soaker. Packed up at 11.30. What a game coming home. Could hardly keep our feet. The worst working party I have been on.

Tuesday 13th

Got back about 2AM drenched. But the worse the conditions are the better the spirit of the men. We were singing all the way home. And it was raining hard & pitch dark. When we got in we heard that we are out again to night. We had been dwelling on false hopes. Could not get up until 10.30 as we were having our clothes dried. Kit inspection at 2 o’clock. I touched lucky and did not go out on working party to night. Plenty of rain to day.

Wednesday 14th

Nothing to do until 2.30 PM. Then I took 80 men down to the baths at Sailly. When we got their found that they had shifted but eventually found the place. Got back in time for pay. Then went and had supper at an estamient. No working party at all to night. At 11 o’clock the time was advanced one hour.

Thursday 15th

We have been done out of an hours sleep. Got up at ½ past 5 & really it was ½ past 4. All on a working party to day at Sailly. Making a cutting for a light railway. The rain keeps off. Knocked off at 3 o’clock. Got back about 5PM. At 6.30 feet & Gas Helmet inspection. It seems funny going to bed while it is still light. The boys are not used to it yet. They kept roaming about after 9 o’clock.

Friday 16th

Working party today in F.S.M.O. I touch lucky being B.O.S. But spend a busy morning inspecting billets. We leave St Amand at 2 o’clock. Lovely wooded country we march through. Arrive at St Halloy about 5 o’clock. Billeted in huts. Some of the others arrive at 7 o’clock & some at 8 o’clock. Got to bed at 10PM. Cold sleeping.

Saturday 17th

Florrie’s Birthday. Spent to day inspecting models of the German line about Hebuterne. Also took the platoon over them. That kept us occupied until 6PM. Then had tea & visited the canteen. Uproar in the middle of the night. A few of the CSM & 2 M Sgts got well oiled and came in our hut. Our Quarter slung one of them out. At the finish we had to fetch our Officers to them. So did not get much sleep.

Sunday 18th

Still doing working parties. Start out at 7.30 for Pas. F.S.M.O without packs. Lovely little town is Pas. Right in the middle of a forest & down in a valley. Loading up logs. Had a few drinks after tea. About 8 PM we saw an aeroplane fight. Very exciting. We brought him down.

Monday 19th

I have a days holiday to day. So lay in until 9.30. After dinner we had to go to the baths at Pas. Jolly fine bath. The band played us back. Got back about 6 PM.

Tuesday 20th

Another holiday to day. Rev at 5AM. But we don’t get up until 7AM. At 10 we have to over the trenches again. Pay after dinner. Then I cleaned up for Guard. Had to turn out once to the smouldering ruins, but soon settled that.

Wednesday 21st

Had a fire going all night so did not worry about the cold. The Coy moved off at 6AM. I follow at 2 PM. Another moving day. Dismissed the Guard at 2PM. Then I took my men on to Maunolicourt where the Coy was unloading trains. Immense RE stores there. Had a high tea Lettuce, Peaches & Cherries & biscuits. Left there about 6PM reaching Henu at 7.30. But were not allowed to go into the village.

Thursday 22nd

Had a longer lay in this morning getting up at about 8.30 instead of 6.30. Lovely warm day. Had a stroll down to the village before dinner. On the move again before 4 o’clock. Marched to Sailly. Reached there about 7PM. Billeted there for the night.

Friday 23rd

Very Hot first thing. Aeroplanes very active. This afternoon we had a heavy thunder storm. It came down in sheets. The thunder was continuous. Never heard anything like it before. Cleared up by tea time. Nothing doing to night, so had a bit of a sing song. Rained again in the night & wakened me by dripping on me. So I had to shift my bed.

Saturday 24th

The Guns woke me up a bit earlier this morning. Mixed weather we are having to day. Sunshine & rain. Judging by the row I should think that they have started the bombardment. Had a game of cards this afternoon. Aeroplanes have been busy in the fine intervals. Expect Charlie White is enjoying himself down in Rouen by now. Still Strafeing Hard.

Sunday 25th

During the night our billet was shelled. It caused a commotion in the dark. Unfortunately poor old No 3 Platoon got all the casualties. 2 killed & 3 Wounded. Sgt Hawke wounded. This morning we shifted our billets to higher up the road, & later on the boys left the billet for the trench where they intend to stop. Working party to night, but I did not go out Up the line somewhere.

Monday 26th

Sgt Dwyer left us this morning. Got a Police job I believe. It is not too bad where we are now, but the boys still prefer the trench. Had to do 20 minutes rifle drill after dinner in the orchard. The cooker left us to night but they left the Dicksee’s behind. Bad headache to night. Rained heavily.

Tuesday 27th

Still putting up with the row. We made a feint smoke attack this morning. After dinner had to go up to the front line on a working party. Didn’t fancy going over the Corderoy track, but we managed it alright. Cleaning out the Communication trenches. Some of them were knee deep in water. Coming back our guns weren’t half speaking. I was glad to get back to Sailly. Wasn’t half in a state.

Wednesday 28th

More rain. We paraded at 2 o’clock ready to proceed to Hebuterne, but the order came up telling us to stand by. Postponed for 24 hrs I believe owing to the wet. Later on we get orders for a working party. 2 Sgts wanted. I am unlucky for I click. Cleaning up communication trenches. Work from 10 to 2. Our guns were busy during the night. The Huns did not reply much. Got back about 4AM. Wet feet.

Thursday 29th

Did not get up until 11 o’clock. More working parties but I get let off to night. Not Sorry either. Some of our bombers go out on a bombing raid. Two out of my platoon do not return. 1 gets wounded the other is missing. It was a lovely night up the line I believe.

Friday 30th

Same old row continues. I write home & send some money to Mother. Working party ordered, the next minute it is cancelled. On parade at 5 PM ready to move up to Hebuterne. Turned out lovely after dinner. We had another Gas Helmet inspection. Left Sailly about 7 PM & occupied trenches at Hebuterne just behind the road. Busy drawing extra ammo etc & dishing some out. Could not sleep as we did not have our coats with us.

JULY 1916 - SOMME AND A BLIGHTY

Saturday 1st

At 6.30 the bombardment opened. It continued until 8AM. And didn’t they go it. Soon after 8 we started for the front line. Didn’t we have at time going up the Communication trench. A job to get along. Could not make much head way with our job. Which was carrying RE Stores over to the Hun front line. Between 10 & 11 I caught a fragment of a shell right on the bridge of the nose. So two of my chaps take me down to the dressing station. Then I went to Couin then Henu. Slept there until 12 o’clock.

Sunday 2nd

Motor ride to Marlincourt to the casualty clearing station. All particulars taken again. Had a sleep there. Then we boarded the hospital train at 12 o’clock, bound for an unknown destination. Had dinner & tea en route. At about 6 o’clock we arrive at our destination which is Le Tréport. A fine seaside place, 2nd Canadian Hospital which is on top of the cliffs. All partic taken again. Then off to the baths & a suit of blue given us.

Monday 3rd

What a treat it was to get into a nice clean bed. I did not want to get up this morning. Lovely day. Had a walk on the cliffs. It is indeed a lovely place. Saw Bill Groves. I have to go & draw my Khaki. A sign for Blighty they say. Hope so. At 7.30 we leave in Motors for Dieppe. About an hours run from Le Tréport. A nice ride. Soon after we got here it rained heavily.

Tuesday 4th

What a dead & alive place to be stuck in. Absolutely nothing here. Nothing to do. Nothing to read. Nowhere to go. Should not like to be here long. We keep worrying as to what they are going to do with us. After tea they brought us some novels round. Still no news of their intentions.

Wednesday 5th

The Doctor has been round taking information & marking our cards. Is it for Blighty I wonder. After tea we hear that 67 are going away to-morrow. So must possess ourselves with patience & await the morrow.

Thursday 6th

Last nights order cancelled. Rotten grub we are getting. 1 slice of bread & butter only for tea. Breakfast porridge extra. No sweets after dinner. Still no news of shifting. We are all as miserable as anything here.

Dieppe – The Beach and Casino at bathing time

The message on the back of the card reads:

My Dearest “Bob”,
The cross on the opposite side is where I stayed when at Dieppe. But we could not see the view on the card.
Much Love, Walter

Friday 7th

Rain again to day. The doctor has been round again & this time I am marked for the base, so must give up all hopes of Blighty now. What rotten luck getting sent to this place. A lot of chaps are going to the base tomorrow. Wonder whether I am one. The ladies from the Y.M.C.A. in town gave a concert this afternoon. It was like the opening overture of music hall or a Picture Palace.

Saturday 8th

Three parties going away to day & I am not one of them. Still got to amuse myself here. Only 4 left in our tent now. After tea we get shifted into a ward. I regret the day they sent me from Le Tréport. I walked as far as the barbed wire bordering the road, but was told I was not allowed there. It should be called a prison instead of a hospital. A turn up the trenches would do the R.A.M.C. chaps a lot of good.

Sunday 9th

Still dragging out my miserable existence here. How much longer I wonder. It is lovely weather & I have a longing for England. Especially after reading about the Hospital trains & the slightly wounded in London Hospitals. Had a short service just before tea.

Monday 10th

Another party left here to-day bound for somewhere but I still remain. Had a little game of cricket this afternoon. The weather still keeps lovely. Had a letter from Mother to-day. That’s better.

Tuesday 11th

Same old round to day. Nothing doing except another medical inspection in which I got an R put against my name. No cigs to day.

Wednesday 12th

Still the same old monotonous round. Some more going out tomorrow I believe. I hear that I am being released to-morrow. Was able to buy some fags to day.

Thursday 13th

At last the eventful day arrives when I shall go from this place. Left Dieppe at 1 0’clock & reached Rouen about 4 o’clock. Much better here. Y.M.C.A Hut. More livelier indeed.

The 3rd Battalion, City of London Regiment, Royal Fusiliers had passed through Rouen earlier in the war. The message on the back of the card reads:

3rd City of London, British Expeditionary Force, France
My dear Florrie,
What do you think of Rouen. We had to march over the Bridge in the picture. Lovely weather. On the move again.
Much Love, Walter



Friday 14th

Another inspection this morning. They say that an O on the card stands for Blighty. Well I have been through it & have got my card marked with an O. Must wait patiently now for future developments. Was inspected by the C.O. & had our cards taken away, but heard nothing further.

Saturday 15th

They woke us up at 5 o’clock & told us that we have to parade for Blighty. So we did not mind that awakening. We jolly soon got ready. Left Rouen Station at 8.30 AM & got to Le Havre at 1.30 PM. Went straight on to the boat. Had a good tea consisting of 2 eggs. What a change. Turned in about 10. Slept in the top bunk. Doing it in grand style. Left Le Havre about midnight. The boat we are on is called the “Landfrancs”.

Sunday 16th

Outside Netley Hospital about 10 o’clock. Then had to lay to, to wait for the tide. Disembarked about 4 PM. Left Southampton about 4.30. Through Salisbury & Bath right through to Newport where we arrived about 7.30. What a reception we received at Newport from the people as we walked from the station to the trams. Made me quite nervous. It is a very large Hospital. I don’t suppose we shall be here long.

Monday 17th

Up early. Very nice sisters in our ward. Doctor came round this morning & put us on the transfer list. Expected to go out after dinner but it didn’t come off . So went & played Billiards. Bed at 9’oclock.

Tuesday 18th

Get permission to go out to day. As we were going out the gate a Sgt asked if we would like a motor ride. Of course we accepted. When we arrived at the house we found that we had to stay to tea. Had a splendid tea. One of the chaps evidently took the mustard pot for the pepper box, but unfortunately none came out. We played tennis, bowls & cards & had a shooting competition. Arrived back about 8.30 after a delightful outing. Should have gone to the Empire, but did not mind missing that.

Wednesday 19th

Had a stroll round Newport after dinner. Not a bad town. After tea went into Belle Vue Park. Rather a nice park.

Thursday 20th

Went & rested in the park for an hour after dinner. It was very hot. Another invitation out to tea. Had a splendid spread at a restaurant. Sing song after. Knocked off about 7.

Friday 21st

Walking along Commercial St this afternoon I met Mr Griffiths. The gentleman who entertained us to tea the other afternoon. He showed me over his factory. Making army shirts etc. And after I had tea with him. Spent an interesting afternoon.

Saturday 22nd

Had a trim up this afternoon & just a short stroll round the Park. Nothing doing to-day.

Sunday 23rd

Out to tea again. Went to Mr Hunt & had a very nice tea. Then turned in. Heard the news that I am going to a Convalescent home tomorrow.

Monday 24th

It took all morning to draw my clothes & kit. Leave here at 2PM., for convalescent home Caerphilly. Reached there about 3.30. Had a splendid tea for a start off. Keep later hours now. Lights out at 11PM. It is a lovely place here.

Tuesday 25th

Have made a good change. WE don’t have to get up until 7AM. We are making a good start. Afternoon out this afternoon. Going to Lady (space left here) at St Fagan. Caught the 1.17 train to Cardiff & then motored the rest of the way. Lovely place. Plenty of us there. Music. Different competitions. And a splendid tea. Raspberries & cream. Back to the hospital at 7.30 tired out.

Wednesday 26th

Had a stroll around the village after dinner. Visited the ruins of the old castle & found it very interesting. Not at all a bad little village.

Thursday 27th

Had a thunderstorm after dinner so was not able to go out. But managed to get out later for an hour.

Friday 28th

No entry

Saturday 29th

Went out to tea to-day. We went to Nantcarn about 3 miles from here. Had a splendid tea. After tea sports. I won the egg & spoon race. 2/- better off. It was a lovely spot.

Sunday 30th

Went to Church this morning. It was a treat to hear the organ again. In the evening we had a short service in the hospital.

Monday 31st

Amused ourselves by playing cricket this morning on the golf links.

AUGUST 1916 - RECUPERATION

Tuesday 1st

Another medical inspection to-day but nothing come of it.

Wednesday 2nd

Entertained to a concert to night. A Welsh choir. It was very good indeed.

Thursday 3rd

Another concert to night. Talent provided by Lady Tateom. We had some good singing. We moved from the extension to the expansion to day.

Friday 4th

No entry

Saturday 5th

Mother & Ethel turned up at 7.30

Sunday 6th

No entry

Monday 7th

Managed to get as far as Pengarth. Not bad.

Tuesday 8th

No entry

Wednesday 9th

Went to Roath Park. Took Ethel for a row on the lake. Got marked out to day.

Thursday 10th

No entry

Friday 11th

Invited out to Hengoed this afternoon to tea. Spent a pleasant time.

Saturday 12th

Mother & Ethel left. My papers have not arrived yet. Rained to night.

Sunday 13th

Still no papers so I go to Church.

Monday 14th

Papers have arrived but I cannot go until to morrow.

Tuesday 15th

Said my good byes & left the Hospital at 8.30

Wednesday 16th

Spent the day down at Edmonton.

Thursday 17th

Caught the 10 o’clock train for Romiley. Arrived there at 3 & found all well.

Friday 18th

Had tea at Howards.

Saturday 19th

Had our Photos taken at Stockport then went on to Tom Youngs.

Sgt Walter Davis & Miss Florrie Buxton

Sunday 20th

Had a good long walk after dinner. Went to Chapel at night. It was quite like old times.

Monday 21st

Caught the midnight back to London. Mabel & Ada saw me off at Romiley. Was sorry to leave.

Tuesday 22nd

Arrived home about 7AM. Had to stand up all the way from Marple to Derby. So was tired come the afternoon. Went and saw Charlie after tea.

Wednesday 23rd

Spent the day down at Edmonton. Called for Ethel at Markwells. Pretty late when we arrived home.

Thursday 24th

Did not go any where to day. Had the hump.

Friday 25th

Left home again bound for Seaford. Rained hard. Jolly big camp. All huts.

Saturday 26th

Went before the doctor to be grouped. After dinner had a stroll down to the sea front.

Sunday 27th

Church Parade in the arena. I am in No 4 group.

Monday 28th

Depot parade at 8.10 fall in to the drum. Was classified for gyms this afternoon. Class D 11.15 every morning.

Tuesday 29th

Rained to day so no parades. Met Sid Hall.

Wednesday 30th

Wet morning so depot parade off.

Thursday 31st

Took a party of group 5 down to the beach. So spent the evening down there. Have met several of the old Batt down here.

SEPTEMBER 1916 - REHABILITATION

Friday 1st

My first appearance on Gym Parade. It is a bit of scream. Pay day to day. Drew 10/-

Saturday 2nd

It is a treat to be finished with depot parades for a day. Glad to get a rest from such ceremony. Took a stroll down to the sea front after tea.

Sunday 3rd

After Church Parade we had a bit of a thunderstorm. But it blew over after dinner but the rest of the day it has been very windy.

Monday 4th

Rained to night. I got slightly wet. So returned & went into the Sgts mess & spent the evening playing solo whist.

Tuesday 5th

On Picquet to day. Running around from morning to night.

Wednesday 6th

Tried to learn dancing to night but did not make much of a success at it.

Thursday 7th

No entry

Friday 8th

Sgts dance to night. I went & stayed about 4 hrs. Got back soon after 12 o’clock. They kept the dancing up until 2 o’clock.

Saturday 9th

Met Ethel & Lottie after dinner. After tea I took them for a walk. Went to the top of the hill on the road to Alfriston. From the hill had a lovely view over the valley.

Sunday 10th

I went to Brighton to day. Got a pass until midnight. Saw them off at 7.30 then returned home. The char a banc broke down when we reached Newhaven. So I did not get back very early.

This was the final entry for 1916