Chapter 3

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When it became generally known that the attack was imminent the spirits of the battalion ran high, and preparations for the great battle were pushed with all possible zeal.

The battalion moved from Boves to Gentelle Wood, a distance of six kilometres, moving out at 11 p.m., and arriving at 6 a.m. The congestion of traffic was the worst imaginable, and in consequence it was only with the greatest difficulty that any movement forward by infantry was possible, there being only one road of approach.

With but little sleep, reconnoitring commenced almost at once, and in order to observe secrecy, small parties were sent forward to Domart Wood. The Commanding Officer, Intelligence Officer and Company Commanders only were able to reach the forward system and make a quick reconnaissance at close range. Owing to the broken nature of the ground the assembly area was limited and positions for one company had to be found forward of the front line, held by the troops then holding that sector. All these areas were thoroughly reconnoitred and positions taped off, which was an extremely difficult and hazardous task due to the night activity of enemy machine guns, but thanks to the assistance of the Commander of the Australian Outpost Company then holding the line, who personally pointed out the most favorable positions, everything was completed satisfactorily.

At 9.30 p.m. on the night of August 7th the battalionmoved off to occupy the assembly positions. Zigzag lanes had been cut through the standing corn on both sides of the road and along one of these we moved in single file with as little noise as possible. Each man carried two water bottles, 48 hours’ rations and 170 rounds of ammunition in addition to his usual battle equipment. To drown the curses of the weary troops as well as the approach of the tanks it had been arranged with great forethought, for a flight of heavy bombing planes to operate during the night in this area. It was a bright moonlight night, and the movement forward proceeded uninterrupted; the battalion scouts, acting as guides, led their platoons, and the slow task of crossing the river over bridge 53 commenced. Opened out to five paces interval, and trying to move quietly, made the march an exceptionally tedious one; however, the crossing was made successfully, and positions occupied under the personal supervision of those who had made the arrangements the night before.

It was by no means an easy position to attack from, as the leading company was facing south. The assembly was finally completed at 2.15 a.m., and word passed round that the zero hour would be at 4.20 a.m.; consequently there was still time to rest and to take up any minor details which might have been previously overlooked.

At 4.20 a.m. sharp, one of the greatest barrages in the history of the war by artillery and machine guns opened out. It was truly a marvellous piece of work considering no previous registration had been made.The difficulty of getting away from the assembly points commenced at zero, plus eight minutes, and the greatest credit is due to the unit commanders for leading their companies and platoons out as well as they did. The left company were obliged to make a left-about wheel round a hedge, out to a road which they covered, and from there deploy in artillery formation. The remainder followed rapidly, and at zero plus forty minutes, the whole Battalion was clear of the jumping-off positions, including Headquarters, which followed in rear of the reserve company. The enemy retaliation came down quickly, but was not very heavy, although the congestion around the assembly point resulted in some casualties there.

The dense fog and smoke made it very difficult to preserve direction, and the Demuin road, with its tall trees, made an excellent landmark, previously noted, which enabled the 43rd, 58th and our own battalion to deploy towards their correct objectives. The enemy machine guns were then busy, and fighting commenced in earnest. “C” Company, on the left, realizing the necessity of pushing on as rapidly as possible, made excellent time. “A” Company got into the fight early, and suffered severe casualties, losing all their officers and about sixty other ranks before reaching their objective, and it was only through the prompt action of C. S. M. Fenwick, who gathered the remnants of that company together, that they were enabled to do so.

The tanks were very much handicapped by thedense fog, and lost direction, operating on the flanks, with the exception of two, which nearly ran down a number of our battalion when they went through us at the start.

Very heavy fighting took place around enemy Headquarters. Machine guns were in abundance, and it was only after brilliant work on the part of the forward company that this nest was successfully dealt with, and a long stream of prisoners commenced leaving for the rear. The dash of our men was most marked, showing a marvellous difference from the old staid method of following the barrage shoulder to shoulder at the high port. Enemy machine gun nests were difficult to locate, owing to the poor observation, and a great many of these were cut off and surrendered to the infantry following behind.

Owing to a check which “A” Company received at the Hangard-Dodo Wood road, Battalion Headquarters soon found itself close to the battle and provided reinforcements to assist them in taking their final objective.

The advance had also been checked by machine gun fire immediately to the right centre and left of the Bade trench, and under cover of our own fire these nests were rushed and put out of action, severe casualties being inflicted on the enemy, their guns being captured and some prisoners taken.

An isolated field gun was still in action behind a small hedge approximately to the front and left of Bade trench; this was soon put out of action and the survivors of the crew captured. The advance was then continued and the Bade system finally taken with a number of machine guns, which were remounted on the parados ready for action by 6.15 a.m.; Battalion Headquarters was immediately established here, and the composite company (“A” Company, with Headquarter reinforcements) moved forward to provide a covering fire for “C” and “D” Companies in their advance on Hammon Wood.

Meanwhile, on the left, the advance was going along well, a great many machine guns being captured without interfering with the progress of our men. Close touch was kept on our left flank with the 58th Battalion, and owing to the extremely poor visibility, it was considered advisable to make certain that our left flank was secure at Demuin Wood before committing all our left flank platoons to the assault on Hammon Wood; consequently one platoon went into Demuin with the 58th Battalion.

It was not known exactly what progress the right was making at this time, and with depleted ranks, it seemed at the moment that the number of infantry available for the advance on Hammon Wood was none too strong. As the advance progressed the enemy were seen on the high ground 500 yards to the right, still in action and apparently firing on “A” Company in the Bade trench. Fire was immediately brought to bear on the rear of this party, and after a few rounds they were compelled to capitulate; again a large number of prisoners were sent to the rear. This enabled “B” Companyto go up on the right and their appearance considerably heartened “C” Company, so that the advance against Hammon Wood pushed forward rapidly from west and north. It was also realized that “D” Company was making good progress, and were getting within reach of the Woods.

An enemy field-battery of two guns, still in action, was dealt with on the high ground to the north of Hammon Wood re-entrant, together with a number of machine guns.

Whilst “D” Company progressed forward on the right a composite company of “C” and “B” Companies pressed up the re-entrant from the north. The enemy artillery had evidently been reached before they had realized their danger; some of the gunners fought to a finish, firing through open sights on our men advancing until surrounded. A few rounds, together with the bold assault of infantry straight to the guns, was sufficient to prove to the enemy the futility of further resistance; consequently a record capture of enemy guns was made, and the survivors of the artillery group, who were numerous, came streaming from the dug-outs in which they had taken shelter, and were marched to the rear under their own officers. An eight-inch howitzer, a 5.9, and a 4.1 long-range battery were among the trophies captured, together with an artillery Quartermaster’s stores, which contained all kinds of unknown material.

Along the high ground to the south and east some enemy machine guns still held out. These were quicklydealt with by “D” Company, and Hammon Wood was cleared. Our men now went well forward of the Wood and commenced firing on parties of the enemy infantry seen on a hill about a hundred yards to the left. A temporary defence system was rapidly established, and the ground cleared in front of the 7th Brigade, which was close behind and ready to push forward; and so by 7.30 a.m. our battalion had reached and consolidated its final objective, in which operations they captured 16 guns, 40 machine guns and about 450 prisoners.

Our casualties were 2 officers, Capt. A. W. Baird, M.C., Lt. J. Anderson, and 30 other ranks killed; 10 officers and 148 other ranks wounded and missing.

CHAPTER IX.

The Boiry Show.

Successful as our attack had been, we were not allowed to leave this area until after a further demonstration of our usefulness, and on the 11th instant we took over the line from remnants of the Royal Scots, Dorsets and Manchesters, who had run into stiff opposition in the neighborhood of Parvillers, and in consequence had suffered very heavy casualties. The situation was what is called obscure, and on the following day six of our platoons, in conjunction with the P.P.C.L.I. on the left, were rushed forward to capture Middle Wood and Square Wood. A number of machine guns fell into our hands, and identification was secured.

On the 13th the Germans counter-attacked and forced our outposts to retire slightly, and on the 16th we were relieved by the 19th Battalion and withdrew to Beaucourt Wood, having lost one officer, Lt. I. J. J. McCorkell, and thirteen other ranks killed; three officers, including Lt. A. H. Goodman, who died of wounds, and sixty-four other ranks wounded.

Group taken at Pernes(Dec., 1918)Back Row:—Lt. E. B. Elliott; Lt. G. W. Morgan; Lt. C. R. Hillis (killed in action); Lt. A. L. MacDonald; Lt. H. K. Wood; Lt. F. A. MacGrotty (killed in action); Lt. W. E. Shier; Lt. G. E. Haygarth; Lt. W. A. Orr; Lt. J. B. Quarry; Lt. H. E. Patterson.Third Row:—Lt. R. W. Soper (killed in action); Lt. J. A. Hughes; Lt. J. A. Proctor (accidentally killed); Lt. W. J. Preston (killed in action); Lt. J. A. Gibson (killed in action); Lt. R. W. Biggar (killed in action); Lt. A. H. Dixon; Lt. J. A. Huggins; Lt. H. R. Williams; Lt. G. M. Leslie; Lt. T. A. Irwin; Lt. A. K. Wilson; Lt. T. H. Broad (killed in action).Second Row:—Capt. Armstrong, C.A.M.C.; Capt. D. Ritchie, O.C. (A Co’y); Actg. Major E. P. S. Allen, O.C. (B Co’y); Major G. R. Pearkes, M. C. (2nd in Command); Lt.-Col. S. S. Sharpe, O.C. (accidentally killed); Capt. A. F. Hind (Adjutant); Capt. H. E. Ruwald, O.C. (C Co’y); Capt. A. W. Baird, O.C. (D Co’y) (killed in action); Capt. N. E. Fairhead (Quartermaster).Front Row:—Lt. W. A. Dunlop; Lt. L. V. Sutton; Lt. J. H. Hughes, M.C. (Transport Officer); Lt. K. L. Wallace; Lt. H. E. Gee.larger image

Back Row:—Lt. E. B. Elliott; Lt. G. W. Morgan; Lt. C. R. Hillis (killed in action); Lt. A. L. MacDonald; Lt. H. K. Wood; Lt. F. A. MacGrotty (killed in action); Lt. W. E. Shier; Lt. G. E. Haygarth; Lt. W. A. Orr; Lt. J. B. Quarry; Lt. H. E. Patterson.

Third Row:—Lt. R. W. Soper (killed in action); Lt. J. A. Hughes; Lt. J. A. Proctor (accidentally killed); Lt. W. J. Preston (killed in action); Lt. J. A. Gibson (killed in action); Lt. R. W. Biggar (killed in action); Lt. A. H. Dixon; Lt. J. A. Huggins; Lt. H. R. Williams; Lt. G. M. Leslie; Lt. T. A. Irwin; Lt. A. K. Wilson; Lt. T. H. Broad (killed in action).

Second Row:—Capt. Armstrong, C.A.M.C.; Capt. D. Ritchie, O.C. (A Co’y); Actg. Major E. P. S. Allen, O.C. (B Co’y); Major G. R. Pearkes, M. C. (2nd in Command); Lt.-Col. S. S. Sharpe, O.C. (accidentally killed); Capt. A. F. Hind (Adjutant); Capt. H. E. Ruwald, O.C. (C Co’y); Capt. A. W. Baird, O.C. (D Co’y) (killed in action); Capt. N. E. Fairhead (Quartermaster).

Front Row:—Lt. W. A. Dunlop; Lt. L. V. Sutton; Lt. J. H. Hughes, M.C. (Transport Officer); Lt. K. L. Wallace; Lt. H. E. Gee.

After a march by easy stages from the Amiens sector we finally reached “Y” huts on the 25th of August; old familiar rest homes of the Nissen variety on the Arras-St. Pol Road. The reports from all parts of theline were most satisfactory, but we had not been allowed to while away the summer in training for nothing, and on the morning of the 26th we were again on the march in “battle order.”

It was soon realized that something serious was on in front, our hearts being gladdened by the sight of six hundred or more Bosch prisoners, who were passeden routefor the rear.

About midday, after marching through the picturesque old city of Arras, we halted on the outskirts of the city and made ourselves comfortable in cellars and ruined houses.

Along the line of march we had been busy among ourselves with conjectures as to what our next job was to be, and from information secured from walking wounded and others, we learned that the 8th Brigade C.M.R., after several days of fighting, had attacked and captured the village of Monchy Le Preu, a particularly fine piece of work, for Monchy was a hard nut to crack owing to its geographical situation on the high ground, situated about three miles east of Arras and just north of the Arras-Cambrai Road.

At 7 p.m. we moved forward again and at 11.30 p.m. reached and occupied shell holes just west of Monchy, very fortunately shown on the map as Orange Hill. On our arrival here orders were received from the 9th Brigade to co-operate with other units of the Brigade and attack at 4.55 a.m. A conference of Company Commanders was hastily called when the plan of attackwas discussed and instructions quickly detailed, and at 12.10 midnight, companies had moved off by platoons to take up assembly positions in the jumping-off trench held by the Royal Canadian Regiment. It was a pitch dark night with no opportunity for looking over the ground, and very little time to explain to the men the objective and plan of attack. It was here that the results of summer training and night manoeuvres justified the many hours spent, all companies being in position by 4 a.m., thus giving all hands a breathing spell and an opportunity to explain details of the attack.

The Brigade objectives were Boiry-Notre-Dame, Artillery Hill, and the two woods known as Bois du Sart and Bois du Vert. The 58th Battalion objective was the Bois du Sart, and the 52nd Battalion the Bois du Vert. The 116th Battalion was to pass through these units and capture Boiry and Artillery Hill, the 43rd Battalion to follow in reserve. “A” Company (Capt. Preston) was to follow in close support to the 52nd Battalion, and on their clearing the wood was to follow through and make a turning movement north on Boiry Village. “D” Company (Capt. Wilson), followed by “C” Company (Capt. Sutton), were to work along the sunken road between the two woods and on their being cleared were to push on and capture Boiry and Artillery Hill, “B” Company (Major Pratt) to follow in close support of “C” and “D” Companies.

With an almost uncanny exactness our artillery barrage opened at 4.55 a.m., and being closely followedby our front waves, the whole battalion was soon in the thick of the Bosch artillery and machine gun barrage.

After moving forward about a hundred yards our objectives were soon seen. The two woods situated on rising ground stood out in bold relief with the village of Boiry perched on the top of another and higher hill about 800 yards beyond the woods.

It was soon realized that the Bosch had a lot of kick left in him yet, “A” Company being forced to swing to the right of the Bois du Vert to clean up some machine gun nests which were inflicting heavy casualties on our forward platoons by enfilade fire. The enemy was in great strength here and it was not long before we were engaged in hand-to-hand fighting. During the day this line of trenches was captured, lost and recaptured by counter-attacks no less than three times.

During one of these attacks Sergt. McMillan of “A” Company was captured and forced by the Bosch to carry back wounded, but on his second trip he was recaptured in a counter-attack led by Capt. Preston.

In the meantime the 58th and 52nd Battalions, after hard fighting, had captured their objectives and “D” and “C” Companies of our own Battalion had cleaned up the ground between the woods, but on emerging to the open ground in advance of these they were literally mown down by intense machine gun fire from Artillery Hill and Boiry Village. It was here, whilst gallantly trying to lead forward the advance, that Major J. Sutherland, acting in command of the battalion, waskilled, the command then falling on Major Pratt, next senior officer.

Owing to the intense machine gun fire it was found impossible to make any great advance without further support, but during the day individual and small parties made further gains and a line was finally established well in advance of the woods, communication being established with the 58th and 52nd Battalions on our left and right.

On night falling every effort was made to reorganize the companies and platoons. The evacuation of the wounded was rendered most difficult, as were the ration and ammunition carrying parties, owing to the continuous machine gun fire and the fact that we were occupying shell holes with very little cover. During the night, orders were received to make a further attack in conjunction with other units of the 9th Brigade on Artillery Hill from the Bois du Sart; on the morning of the 28th Aug., after getting into our assembly positions this order was cancelled, and we were ordered to take up new ground and closely support the 4th C.M.R. Battalion in a flank movement from the south of the Bois du Vert, in conjunction with other units of the 3rd Division.

At 11 a.m., “zero hour,” our artillery laid down a perfect barrage and both Boiry and Artillery Hill were captured with a large number of prisoners, a line being established just on the outskirts of the town. At 9.30 p.m. very welcome orders were received that our divisionwould be relieved by the 4th British Division and at 3.10 a.m. on the 29th of August the 116th Battalion was relieved by a battalion of the Hampshire Regiment, companies moving off independently when relieved and assembling in billets in Feuchy.

In these two days of fighting our losses were three officers, Major J. Sutherland, D.S.O., Lt. H. D. Livingstone, Lt. R. Campkin, and forty-two other ranks killed, seven officers and two hundred and forty-three other ranks wounded or missing.

On the 17th September the battalion was resting in the Guemappe area, close to the scene of the fighting described above, and about 5 p.m. the German artillery suddenly commenced to register on our camp with 5.9’s; several men standing round the field kitchens were killed, and a number wounded. One of these shells burst within a few yards of a party of our officers who were on their way over to look after casualties, and Captain F. W. Ott and Captain T. H. Broad, both of whom came over to France with the battalion, were killed. Colonel Pearkes and Lt. Proctor were wounded, the former very seriously. This was a terrible blow to the battalion, coming on top of the very severe casualties we had experienced during the last month, and left us incidentally sans Colonel, second in command (Major Sutherland); Adjutant (Captain Ott); Intelligence Officer (Captain Broad); and Scout Officer (Lt. Proctor). The general surroundings and our recent losses had a most depressing effect on the whole battalion, and we were glad whenorders were received to move back to Arras, which was accomplished on the 19th, under the command of Major Pratt.

Later we were moved back a few more miles to “Y” huts, already mentioned, and which was just across the road from the Casualty Clearing Station in which Colonel Pearkes was lying dangerously ill.

Arriving in France with the 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade in 1915, Private G. R. Pearkes proceeded to win a commission in the field, and as a Lieutenant in the same brigade was awarded the Military Cross for gallant conduct during the Somme offensive of 1916—although he had been wounded three times he continued in his upward career, and as a Company Commander in the 5th C.M.R., with the acting rank of Major, he won the Victoria Cross for conspicuous gallantry during the Battle of Passchendaele. It was then that the Divisional Commander (General Lipsett) selected him out of all other officers in the 3rd Division to fill the vacancy of 2nd in Command to the 116th Battalion.

All the previous honors won by him together with his almost unequalled experience were immediately centred in the welfare of our unit, and undoubtedly the high state of fighting efficiency and organization attained by us was greatly due to his unerring judgment and unselfish devotion to the battalion.

As our Commanding Officer in the battle of Amiens he was awarded the D.S.O. and French Croix de Guerre, and although not permitted to lead the battalion againstBoiry his influence and support behind were strongly felt by all ranks throughout this action and assisted us greatly in gaining our objectives. Wounded severely for the fifth time, it seemed hopeless to expect that he could survive. To the surprise and joy of everyone he rejoined us later at the Armistice Line in time to lead the triumphant march through Belgium and to return with us to Canada.

CHAPTER X.

Cambrai.

On the evening of the 26th September we were off again in the direction of Cambrai, and after a cold and tedious train journey we arrived at Quéant about 1.30 a.m. on the 27th. The guides, who had been sent on in advance, seemed to have got lost, for they did not meet us at Quéant Station, and a certain amount of confusion ensued in consequence, before it was decided in which direction was situated a certain map location given us by Brigade Headquarters as our billetting area.

The rain poured down in buckets, and everyone was drenched to the skin by the time we reached our destination; however, the cooks got busy and a hot meal was served, soon after which we received orders to move forward. It should be mentioned here that Major D. Carmichael, D.S.O., M.C., second in command of the 58th Battalion, and one of the outstanding officers of the 9th Brigade, was transferred to us as Officer Commanding just after leaving “Y” huts.

The roads were packed with transport and guns coming up from every direction, and we picked our way by overland routes to Inchy, and from there to our new area, east of the Canal du Nord.

The kitchens were unable to move with us, and webivouacked in shell holes that night with no covering except waterproof sheets, and no hot dinner. About 3 a.m. the next morning the kitchens arrived, and the men gathered round them in small groups to try and get warm. It is surprising how good a thick bacon sandwich is with a ration of rum, about 5 o’clock in the morning!

About 7 a.m. the battalion moved forward, according to plan, closely following the 58th Battalion, through Bourlon Wood, which had been captured only a few hours previously by the 4th Division, and by 10 a.m. we were assembled behind a railway embankment to the east of Bourlon, and in full view of the city of Cambrai. Up to this time we had encountered nothing more than scattered shell fire, and we had had no casualties.

From our embankment we watched some tanks coming out of action, and at 6.30 p.m. we received verbal instructions that the 58th Battalion would attack the Marcoing Line, and that the 116th Battalion, passing through the 58th, would attack and capture the Village of St. Olle, which is a small suburb of Cambrai.

Zero hour was set for 7 p.m., and in consequence there was no time to discuss any plan of operation beyond the fact that “A” Company (Capt. Preston) and “B” Company (Capt. Orr) would lead the attack. By the time we had reached our positions it was dark.

The attack by the 58th was successful, and we moved through their lines in the direction of St. Olle. Judging by the machine gun fire the village was strongly held,and as no reconnaissance of the ground could be made, and only a very general direction maintained, it was decided that we would not proceed with the attack until daylight. Battalion Headquarters was established, and rations were brought forward and distributed to the companies under the very nose of the Bosch, who could have wiped us out if he had only known; and so darkness has sometimes its advantages also. During the night it was possible to make some preparation, and at 6 a.m. the next morning “A” and “B” Companies, with “C” Company (Capt. Williams) and “D” Company (Capt. Patterson) in support, resumed the attack.

The leading platoons had scarcely started when they were caught between cross belts of machine gun fire, coming from a small trench in front of St. Olle and Petit Fontaine on the right, and after an hour’s fighting they had hardly made any headway at all, and had lost practically the whole of their effectives. News of this disaster was brought by Lieutenant Smith of “B” Company, who rolled over the parapet of the trench just outside Battalion Headquarters in an exhausted condition. From all he said, it appeared that “A” and “B” Companies had been annihilated; that Captain Preston and Lieutenant Palmer were both wounded and prisoners, and that Lieutenant Norton had been killed. This information was corroborated by Private Stankewicz, who had been taken prisoner with Captain Preston, but who later escaped to our lines.

Group of Officers at Blandain, 1919.(Canadian Official Copyright)Back Row:—Lt. A. B. Bonner, M.M., D.S.O.; Lt. L. W. Harron, M.C.; Lt. W. R. Barton; Lt. J. R. Leslie; Capt. L. V. Sutton, M.C.; Lt. G. W. Morgan; Lt. G. E. Walls; Capt. J. A. Hughes, M.C.; Lt. T. A. Smith, M.C.Third Row:—Lt. W. H. Montague; Padré Capt. Costello; Lt. A. S. Deeks; Lt. F. T. H. Youngman, M.C.; Capt. A. M. Close; Lt. D. M. Waterous; Capt. E. C. Harris (C.A.M.C.); Capt. H. E. Patterson, M.C.; Lt. M. Crabtree, M.C.; Lt. E. J. Sager; Lt. H. J. A. Painter.Second Row:—Capt. J. H. Hughes, M.C. (Quartermaster); Capt. A. K. Wilson, M.C., O.C. (A. Coy); Capt. E. P. S. Allen, D.S.O. (Adjutant); Major A. W. Pratt. D.S.O. (2nd in Command); Lt.-Col. G. R. Pearkes, V.C., D.S.O., M.C. (O.C.); Major A. F. Hind, O.C. (D Co’y); Capt. W. A. Dunlop, M.C., O.C. (B Co’y); Capt. F. H. Moody, O.C. (C Co’y); Capt. C. M. Sheppard.Front Row:—Lt. R. R. Huestis (Transport Off.); Lt. E. Pearson; Lt. J. A. Tiffin; Lt. I. M. Wylie.larger image

Back Row:—Lt. A. B. Bonner, M.M., D.S.O.; Lt. L. W. Harron, M.C.; Lt. W. R. Barton; Lt. J. R. Leslie; Capt. L. V. Sutton, M.C.; Lt. G. W. Morgan; Lt. G. E. Walls; Capt. J. A. Hughes, M.C.; Lt. T. A. Smith, M.C.

Third Row:—Lt. W. H. Montague; Padré Capt. Costello; Lt. A. S. Deeks; Lt. F. T. H. Youngman, M.C.; Capt. A. M. Close; Lt. D. M. Waterous; Capt. E. C. Harris (C.A.M.C.); Capt. H. E. Patterson, M.C.; Lt. M. Crabtree, M.C.; Lt. E. J. Sager; Lt. H. J. A. Painter.

Second Row:—Capt. J. H. Hughes, M.C. (Quartermaster); Capt. A. K. Wilson, M.C., O.C. (A. Coy); Capt. E. P. S. Allen, D.S.O. (Adjutant); Major A. W. Pratt. D.S.O. (2nd in Command); Lt.-Col. G. R. Pearkes, V.C., D.S.O., M.C. (O.C.); Major A. F. Hind, O.C. (D Co’y); Capt. W. A. Dunlop, M.C., O.C. (B Co’y); Capt. F. H. Moody, O.C. (C Co’y); Capt. C. M. Sheppard.

Front Row:—Lt. R. R. Huestis (Transport Off.); Lt. E. Pearson; Lt. J. A. Tiffin; Lt. I. M. Wylie.

Under these distressing conditions it seemed almostas if our gallant unit would fail, for the first time, to win its objective. A battery of our Field Artillery were in action about one thousand yards directly to our rear and a messenger was despatched at once to explain the situation to the Battery Commander, and, if possible, obtain his assistance.

Fire was immediately brought to bear on the machine gun positions in the St. Olle trench, and the work by this battery, in conjunction with our own Lewis guns, was so effective that it was possible to work two platoons from “C” and “D” Companies around the north-west of the village, and Lt. Bonner, who was placed in command of the operation, succeeded with consummate skill and bravery, in rushing the St. Olle trench, destroying a large number of the enemy and capturing one hundred prisoners with ten heavy machine guns.

“D” Company was then able to push through the village as far as the junction of the Arras-Cambrai and Bapaume-Cambrai roads, along which posts were immediately established, and the remnants of “A” and “B” Companies were withdrawn to Battalion Headquarters.

If Fritz had not been so concerned about his own safety at this time he might have found the retaking of St. Olle a very easy matter, for after practically three days and nights without sleep the resisting powers of the gallant “Umpty Umps” were fast waning.

On account of the severe casualties the battalion was reduced to three companies, each one having an averagestrength of ninety rifles, and orders were issued by the Brigadier to make use of the Battalion Band and Bugles, as the attack was to be continued on the first of October.

Such things had happened to other units we knew, but we certainly did not relish the thought of losing our “music,” although the “music” itself, with the true battalion spirit, was game to the core. During the day Major Carmichael, with Major Pratt and Lieutenant Bonner, made a reconnaissance of the ground immediately between us and Cambrai, and were very nearly put out of business by our own heavy artillery, which had started to register without warning, on the junction of the Arras-Cambrai and Bapaume-Cambrai roads.

All that night it poured with rain, but towards dawn the weather commenced to clear, and companies moved off from their positions around St. Olle, “D” Company leading, followed by “C”, “B” and Headquarters. An intense artillery barrage was encountered whilst crossing the Douai-Cambrai Road, and the battalion suffered quite a number of casualties. Major Carmichael was badly wounded in the face, and gave instructions to Captain Allen, the next senior officer, to take over the remnants of the battalion.

On our left we could see the 4th Division advancing in artillery formation, lines of men in single file going steadily forward as if nothing could stop them; it was most inspiring, and everyone started cheering.

It seemed somehow that the Germans were at lastbeaten, and that the war would soon be over, but our feelings of jubilation were a little previous, for after progressing about a mile our leading companies were stopped by a withering fire coming from the right flank.

On observation we discovered a battery of field guns, and quickly changing front, we engaged them with Lewis gun and rifle fire. By this means we managed to work up within close range, and most of the crews being killed or wounded the remainder disappeared over the brow of the hill. Following up closely it was found that they had taken up a position in a small triangular wood, which we eventually surrounded and captured, together with about eighty prisoners, four machine guns, and the battery of field guns mentioned above.

“D” Company and some sections of “C” Company then advanced slightly, taking up positions in front of the wood and facing Ramillies. Whilst holding this line they came under very heavy fire, and a battery of “whizz-bangs” opened on them at point blank range. For an hour or two the situation was most uncomfortable. The battalion on our right had been held up, and the 4th Division on our left had been forced to retire, leaving both our flanks in the air.

Reorganization in our present precarious position was out of the question, and after hanging on for two hours we decided to withdraw behind the western slope of the hill, where we established ourselves in a line of rifle pits, and got in touch with our right and left flanks. By this time the men were thoroughly exhausted, andnews was gladly received that the 24th Battalion would relieve us that evening.

Our total casualties for the last four days’ fighting around Cambrai were four hundred all ranks killed, wounded and missing.

CHAPTER XI.

Mons.

Throughout the whole operation around Cambrai the officers, N.C.O.’s. and men showed a wonderful devotion to duty, and an indomitable spirit to push forward. The difficulty of taking a well-organized system of enemy defences was considerably increased owing to the fact that there had been no opportunity for anyone to reconnoitre the assembly positions, or view the grounds over which we attacked, also the time which could be devoted to explaining to the men even the smallest outline of the plan of attack was almost negligible.

The greatest features were the taking of St. Olle after two of our companies had been practically wiped out; and the crossing of the Douai-Cambrai Road under a barrage of German heavy artillery. The good work by our battalion was recognized by the Divisional Commander who mentioned us in his special order of the day concerning these battles—in his own words:

“I wish to express my appreciation of the work done by the different Units of the Division, and by the Formations co-operating with us, during the past four days’ fighting.“The 7th Canadian Infantry Brigade under Brig.-General J. A. Clarke, D.S.O., and the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade under Brig.-Gen. D. M. Ormond, D.S.O., have maintained their organization through difficult and sustained fighting.“The work of the 116th Canadian Infantry Battalion has been especially fine, etc., etc.(Signed)F. O. W. Loomis,(Major-General)Commanding 3rd Canadian Div.”2-10-’18

“I wish to express my appreciation of the work done by the different Units of the Division, and by the Formations co-operating with us, during the past four days’ fighting.

“The 7th Canadian Infantry Brigade under Brig.-General J. A. Clarke, D.S.O., and the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade under Brig.-Gen. D. M. Ormond, D.S.O., have maintained their organization through difficult and sustained fighting.

“The work of the 116th Canadian Infantry Battalion has been especially fine, etc., etc.

(Signed)F. O. W. Loomis,(Major-General)Commanding 3rd Canadian Div.”

2-10-’18

As soon as the relief had been completed by the 24th Battalion we were moved back behind Cambrai and camped in a sunken road just in front of Bourlon Wood. From here we retired by easy stages to Quéant, which we reached on the 10th of October, and having been allotted a section of the old Hindenburg trench, we started in to make ourselves at home and to nurse our wounds.

It was during our stay here that H.R.H. the Prince of Wales paid us an informal visit. At the time of his arrival the companies were scattered around the area, carrying out some Lewis gun training, and the Adjutant was in his shirt sleeves, making some improvements to his trench shelter.

N.C.O.’s at Blandain, 1919.(Canadian Official Copyright)larger image

Major Younger, the Brigade Major, rushed up to the Adjutant and asked for the C. O. (Major Pratt). “I’m sure I don’t know where he is,” said the Adjutant. “Oh, well,” said the B. M., “you’ll do. The Prince of Wales is just outside, and wants to go round and see the companies, so hurry up and get some clothes on and come and be presented.” (Scene of great excitement,during which hats, coats, and belts were nowhere to be found, and finally the young Prince, highly amused, is conducted round by the hatless and much embarrassed adjutant.)

Later, Major Pratt was found, and introduced to our distinguished visitor, but not catching his name, stepped forward, and seizing his hand, said, “Pleased to meet you, I’m sure.” But the Prince of Wales is a prince of good fellows, and despite the seeming want of courtesy shown him, pronounced himself highly pleased with his visit.

In the afternoon, all the officers of the battalion, together with a composite company of one hundred other ranks, attended the funeral of Major-General Lipsett, who was killed by a sniper whilst reconnoitring the forward positions. During his command of the 3rd Canadian Division (he had only recently been transferred to the Imperial Forces) his keen interest in the welfare of all ranks under his command had made him one of the most popular officers in the Canadian Corps.

On the 17th of the month, the 9th Brigade was inspected by the Corps Commander in a large and muddy field just north of Quéant. The Corps Commander, as most of the Corps know, was by no means a small man, and amongst the troops inspected were a number of men who had recently joined us, and who had consequently no idea as to whom the inspecting officer might be—also the ration of bread at that time was one loaf to three men. It was towards the end of the inspection, andthe small squad of brass caps was walking down the ranks of a certain platoon—one of the newcomers took one look at the Corps Commander and remarked in a loud undertone, “Gee Whiz! Fancy being three men on a loaf with that old beggar.”

The German Army was now in full retreat, and from intelligence received, it seemed likely that from now on we would have a difficult task in even keeping in touch with it. Starting on the 22nd of the month we began a series of advances, which only ended when the Armistice terms had been signed and the Armistice line established about five miles east of Mons.

This advance through country and villages, which had so long been occupied by a cruel and overbearing enemy, will live forever in the memories of all who took part in it. The people seemed to be crazed with the joy of liberty—there wasn’t anything they wouldn’t do for “les braves Canadiens,” as they called us—flowers were strewn along the streets, bouquets were showered on us, and even kisses. Wine was dug up from where it had been hastily cached in 1914, and from personal experience we can assert that it showed no sign of deterioration for its four years’ rest.

These were good days for France, and for us, too, and on the 10th of November we were billetted in a small town called Wasmuel, waiting for orders to take over the front line, at present occupied by the 7th Brigade. At about 8 o’clock on the morning of the 11th November the following order arrived from Brigade H.Q.:

“The 116th Battalion will move up forthwith and take over the line from the 7th Brigade, holding a front line from Q. 9 central to K. 19 central aaa. After taking over the line the battalion will stand fast aaa.Hostilities will cease at 11 a.m. to-day aaa.All precautions to be taken against the enemy aaa. No intercourse with the enemy whatever to take place aaa. O.C. 116th Battalion will report to 9th Brigade H.Q. immediately, and will receive instructions as to route. Acknowledge.”

It didn’t take long to acknowledge such news as that, nor was there any delay in finding a runner to carry the tidings round to the companies, and by 9 a.m. the battalion was moving forward in the direction of Mons, over practically the same ground that our “contemptible little army” had made its gallant stand in August, 1914. The relief completed, a party of one hundred men from the rear details, including the brass band, represented the Battalion at a demonstration held in the public square in Mons, to celebrate the liberation of the City, and in the meantime we advanced our line somewhat, taking up positions along the Brussels-Mons Road, with Headquarters in Nimy.

At 5.30 the following morning the whole neighborhood was awakened by a series of explosions, which bore a striking resemblance to the fire from field artillery; for about half an hour we had an uncomfortable feeling that the war had started again, but on investigation discovered an enemy ammunition train, which had been set on fire by some very small and truly patriotic young Belgians.

Later in the day our line was still further advanced, and we finally occupied what was to be known as the Armistice Line, and from which no advance could be made until the expiration of a definite time limit.

Our left flank, which rested on the Brussels-Mons Road, proved to be a source of great trouble and annoyance, since we received explicit orders to allow no one to pass either from east to west or west to east, except those carrying a special permit signed by 3rd Canadian Divisional H.Q.

Our posts along this road were harassed daily by a continuous barrage of civilians, wishing to pass through from both sides, and naturally peeved at being refused permission. In addition the number of staff officers and generals who clamored to proceed to Brussels, was almost unlimited. The “Umpty Umps” had never seen so many red caps in the front line before; in fact, we scarcely knew that there were so many of them in the whole of the British Army.

“What do you mean by stopping my car?” said one rather fat and irate general. “I’m General ‘so-and-so of the so-and-so’s’.” “I’m sorry, sir, but my instructions are absolutely definite, and unless you have a pass, etc., etc.”—and back he had to go to Mons and get it.

Battalion Colours Arrive at Exhibition Grounds, Toronto (1919)larger image

And here ended the active service of our gallant unit, for when the first and second Canadian Divisions started their advance to the Rhine our posts were withdrawn, and on December 26th, after marching as far as Brussels with the object of relieving the First Division in Germany,we suddenly received orders to “about turn.” We accomplished this in two beats of quick time instead of the usual three, and marched to Blandain, on the borders of France and Belgium, from which place, passing through Le Havre, we were transported to Bramshott via Weymouth, England, and thence to Canada.

“It’s a long, long way to Tipperary,But my heart’s right there.”

Honor Roll, showing the names of all ranks of the 116th Battalion who were killed in action or died of wounds or sickness, whilst on the service roll of the Battalion in France, between February, 1917, and February, 1919. This roll was compiled from the Service records of the Battalion, and is complete so far as the records will allow.

It is very much regretted that the names of those men who died of wounds or sickness, after having been evacuated to England or Canada do not all appear in this roll, owing to the fact that no official record was sent to the Battalion of such cases.

Lt. J. Anderson(Killed in action)

Capt. A. W. Baird, M.C.& Bar(Killed in action)

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