Major E. Hutchison.MajorE. Hutchison.ToListTo face page 16.
MajorE. Hutchison.ToList
To face page 16.
The Farewell Meeting in the Technical College.The Farewell Meeting in the Technical College.ToListTo face page 17.
The Farewell Meeting in the Technical College.ToList
To face page 17.
A member of the Battalion, giving a general impression of these memorable "first days," writes:—
"We all assembled in our various drill halls. We watched and whispered. Some asked, who is that man with the loud voice shouting at us, giving us papers and getting us into what he called Companies. We knew soon. Then they selected N.C.O.'s (acting) from amongst those who had some previous training. After that we went away. The N.C.O.'s stayed and took the bundles of papers, our pledged word to our king, and wearily for hours sorted them and listed the names.
"Days followed when we marched and when we got to know our officers by sight and to call ourselves by our Company name. Then came the day we drew our kit and carried off strange bundles to our homes. We got the magic words 'To camp at Gailes.' Then we were soldiers now. We paraded by Companies and assembled in the Square and marched to the train. A motley crowd carrying on our shoulders all manner of weird shaped bundles. The crowd laughed and cheered us. Thus we left the City that held us very peculiarly her own, her citizens and sons for the last time. Henceforth her soldiers."
The Chamber of Commerce Battalion was now an accomplished fact, and the following authoritative acceptance by the Government and the War Office, linked it as an integral part of the Service Regiments of the British Army.
"War Office,"London, S.W.,2nd November, 1914.To The President,"Chamber of Commerce,"7 West George Street,"Glasgow."Sir,"I am commanded by the Army Council to offer you, and those associated with you, their sincere thanks for having raised the 17th (Service) Battalion, Highland Light Infantry (3rd Glasgow) of which the administration has now been taken over by the Military Authorities."The Council much appreciated the spirit which prompted your offer of assistance, and they are gratified at the successfulresults of the time and labour devoted to this object, which has added to the armed forces of the Crown the services of a fine body of men."The Council will watch the future career of the Battalion with interest, and they feel assured that when sent to the front it will maintain the high reputation of the distinguished Regiment of which it forms part."I am to add that its success on active service will largely depend on the result of your efforts to keep the depot Companies constantly up to establishment with men in every way fit for service in the field."I am, Sir,"Your obedient Servant,"(Signed)B.B. Cubitt."
"War Office,"London, S.W.,2nd November, 1914.
To The President,"Chamber of Commerce,"7 West George Street,"Glasgow.
"Sir,
"I am commanded by the Army Council to offer you, and those associated with you, their sincere thanks for having raised the 17th (Service) Battalion, Highland Light Infantry (3rd Glasgow) of which the administration has now been taken over by the Military Authorities.
"The Council much appreciated the spirit which prompted your offer of assistance, and they are gratified at the successfulresults of the time and labour devoted to this object, which has added to the armed forces of the Crown the services of a fine body of men.
"The Council will watch the future career of the Battalion with interest, and they feel assured that when sent to the front it will maintain the high reputation of the distinguished Regiment of which it forms part.
"I am to add that its success on active service will largely depend on the result of your efforts to keep the depot Companies constantly up to establishment with men in every way fit for service in the field.
"I am, Sir,"Your obedient Servant,"(Signed)B.B. Cubitt."
On 7th November, the Battalion paid a return visit to the City of Glasgow. The Battalion arrived and formed up on the station platform. A word of command and away they marched into the streets, crowded to the uttermost by friends and relatives. Hardly a cheer was heard. The men marched between banks of faces, in a deep silence. What a strange reception, surely the most impressive men ever had, proving what was in the hearts of those that watched the men and how they felt for them. Only when they entered the Square did cheers and the buzzing of an awaking crowd break out. "We felt," says an officer, "rather disappointed; but we knew what it meant." The unit was then inspected in front of the Municipal Buildings by representatives of the Chamber of Commerce.
Early Days.Early Days.ToList
Early Days.ToList
A Rest by the Way.A Rest by the Way.ToListTo face page 18.
A Rest by the Way.ToList
To face page 18.
H.R.H. The Duke of ConnaughtH.R.H. The Duke of Connaught,Colonel-in-Chief of the H.L.I.ToList
H.R.H. The Duke of Connaught,Colonel-in-Chief of the H.L.I.ToList
Colonel J. Stanley Paterson.ColonelJ. Stanley Paterson.ToListTo face page 19.
ColonelJ. Stanley Paterson.ToList
To face page 19.
It will be of value and interest to give here a brief survey of the history of The Highland Light Infantry, which enshrines a record of service and gallantry second to none in the annals of our Empire, and to which the Chamber of Commerce Battalion was fated to add a page as heroic and imperishable as any in its great traditions.
The Highland Light Infantry was originally raised as two separate Regiments of Foot, the 71st and the 74th. What was to become famous as the 71st was raised in 1777 by Lord John MacLeod and was known as "MacLeod's Highlanders." It was a kilted regiment and wore the Mackenzie tartan. It was originally numbered the 73rd, and under this designation won early distinctions in India in the campaigns against Hyder Ali and Tippoo Sahib. Nine years after its inauguration it became the 71st, and after service in Ceylon and at the Cape it received in 1808 the title of "The Glasgow Regiment." Shortly after this the 71st entered once more the fields of war in the Peninsula campaign under Wellington, and shared in many actions including the storming of Ciudad Rodrigo, the siege of Badajoz and at Vittoria. Then came their crowning gallantry at Waterloo against the flower of Napoleon's armies. In later years the Crimea, Canada and the Bermudas were added to their war honours.
The 74th was raised at Glasgow by Major-General Sir Archibald Campbell with a view to service in India. The 74th also wore the kilt, but of Black Watch tartan. Their record runs much on the same lines as that of the 71st, and quickly they are also found performing deeds of stubborn gallantry in India in the Mysore Territory. When the hour of Tippoo Sahib had come, the 74th was the first to enter the tyrant's last stronghold, but it was later, at the battle of Assaye that they earned a fame which finds its echo to-day in the old badge of the Elephant, which that action entitles them to wear. For long afterwards the unit possessed the proud by-name of "The Assaye Regiment." After sharing with the 71st in the rigours of the Peninsula, Canada and the West Indies, the 74thsaw service in the Kaffir War, Madras, and in Egypt, including Tel-el-Kebir, where they were in the fiercest of the fight.
It was in 1809, as a reward for their services, that they were formed into Light Infantry, and were permitted to retain such parts of the national dress as were not inconsistent with the duties of Light Infantry. They then discarded the kilt and adopted the tartan trews which still appear in the full dress uniform of the Regiment. The kilt is now worn by two Territorial Battalions, the 6th and the 9th.
Subsequently the two Regiments were formed into one Regiment of two Battalions.
The "H.L.I.," as all the world calls it, was of course present during the South African War. They fought at Modder River, and though they suffered severely at Magersfontein, continued to share in the hardships of the remainder of the campaign.
At the outbreak of the Great War there were in addition to the 1st and 2nd Battalions, two Special Reserve Battalions (the 3rd and 4th) and five Territorial Battalions, numbered the 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th.
After declaration of war, the 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th Service Battalions were raised, together with the 21st (Territorial) and 1st (Garrison) Battalions. In addition, the 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Battalions each had second and third lines, and at one time there were as many as thirty Battalions in existence. These were more or less connected with the City of Glasgow and district, and serve as an indication of the patriotism and loyalty of the community.
On 14th December, 1914, the War Office issued an order that the Chamber of Commerce Battalion was to form a unit of the New Army, and was to be designated the 17th (Service) Battalion Highland Light Infantry, of the 117th Infantry Brigade, of the 39th Division. This intimation was received when the Battalion was stationed at Troon, and was hailed with great enthusiasm by all ranks.
Their comradeship in the common cause, their keenness for practical service and theesprit de corpsengendered by their attachment to the illustrious Highland Light Infantry, knit all ranks together in enthusiasm and determination.
On the Sea Front at Troon.On the Sea Front at Troon.ToList
On the Sea Front at Troon.ToList
Lt.-Col. David S. Morton, V.D., C.M.G.Lt.-Col.David S. Morton, V.D., C.M.G.ToList
Lt.-Col.David S. Morton, V.D., C.M.G.ToList
Leaving Troon.Leaving Troon.ToListTo face page 20.
Leaving Troon.ToList
To face page 20.
"Guard, Turn Out"--Wensley Camp."Guard, Turn Out"—Wensley Camp.ToList
"Guard, Turn Out"—Wensley Camp.ToList
Mess Orderlies--Prees Heath Camp.Mess Orderlies—Prees Heath Camp.ToListTo face page 21.
Mess Orderlies—Prees Heath Camp.ToList
To face page 21.
It was about this time that instructions were received to recruit a fifth Company as part of the 17th Battalion establishment. As this Company eventually became the nucleus of a further Battalion with a parallel history of its own, it will be treated separately in another chapter. (Page 89.)
The Battalion arrived at Gailes on 23rd September, 1914, and this event might be called the beginning of the Great Adventure. The war seemed miles nearer as the light-hearted and high-spirited lads stepped out of the train and viewed the rows of glistening white tents. The large array of kit bags was in many instances supplemented by suit cases, filled with surplus personal effects thought necessary for creature comforts. The novelty of the surroundings, and twelve men in a tent, including numerous belongings, did not conduce to sleep; and the next morning reveillé found all but the old soldier already astir. The weeks at Gailes were spent in organising, and the efforts of all ranks to become efficient were worthy of that spirit which lasted throughout the existence of the Battalion.
The issue of something in the nature of a uniform and a few Drill Pattern rifles raised hopes that the training was being hurried on. On the 13th October, a move was made to Troon, where the good citizens afforded luxurious billets to the Battalion.
In spite of the vigorous training that was enforced during the next few months, and which stood the men in such good stead later on, the social side was not neglected and helped to cement a great feeling of good fellowship and understanding between the officers and men. It was with mutual regret that the Seventeenth took its departure from Troon on 13th May, 1915, and the memory of the stay in the Ayrshire town will always remain as one of the most pleasant memories in the history of the Battalion.
There is something very remarkable about the record of the 17th H.L.I. when billeted in Troon. For though brain-weary subalterns spent hours trying to balance their billeting monies to the satisfaction of exasperated and exacting Company Commanders, there was very little trouble in the Orderly Room, that pulse of trouble.
Here are some noteworthy facts:—
I.—The Guard Room was always empty.II.—There were practically no men "crimed" for lateness on parade.III.—There were practically no "crimes" for being out of "billets."IV.—There were no complaints of rowdyism in billets.V.—There were no charges of drunkenness.VI.—There were only very few charges of pass breaking.VII.—There were very few claims for damage, and these on examination were more vindictive than real.VIII.—It was not necessary to serve any billeting notices.
I.—The Guard Room was always empty.
II.—There were practically no men "crimed" for lateness on parade.
III.—There were practically no "crimes" for being out of "billets."
IV.—There were no complaints of rowdyism in billets.
V.—There were no charges of drunkenness.
VI.—There were only very few charges of pass breaking.
VII.—There were very few claims for damage, and these on examination were more vindictive than real.
VIII.—It was not necessary to serve any billeting notices.
These are a few of the significant facts that mount up to bring honour to the rank and file of the 17th H.L.I.
The three troop-trains carrying the Battalion arrived at Whitchurch, Shropshire, on the morning of the 14th May, and the men marched some three miles south to the great hut-city on Prees Heath. This was the first War Station of the Brigade, where the 15th, 16th and 17th H.L.I. joined the 11th (S.) Battalion Border Regiment (The Lonsdales). There the men found hut life very comfortable. The cleaning and tidying of their new abodes kept them busy, and was carried out with the cheery zest and whole-hearted enthusiasm so characteristic of the Seventeenth. Full advantage was taken of the adjacent Y.M.C.A. establishment, which proved an admirable Institution. The Concert Hall, Refreshment Tables, Reading and Billiard Rooms, were well patronised at all off-duty hours, and the men appreciated the cheerful kindness of the attendants, who were voluntary lady workers from the County houses.
Extended manœuvres were impracticable in this well-fenced agricultural area, so the training embraced much route-marching, and barrack-square work, musketry, signalling,visual training, etc. There were several trying marches in the scorching May-June weather, to Clive's native district, Moreton-Say and Market Drayton, to Wem and Hodnet, and to the beautiful scenery of Hawkstone Park, and Iscoyd Hall. Football, cricket, hockey, golf and cross-country running provided healthy recreation, while excursions to old-world "Sleepy Chester," to Shrewsbury and into Wales were popular week-ends.
A Peaceful Bivouac—Salisbury Plain.A Peaceful Bivouac—Salisbury Plain.ToList
A Peaceful Bivouac—Salisbury Plain.ToList
Recruiting March at Grand Parade, Bath.Recruiting March at Grand Parade, Bath.ToListTo face page 22.
Recruiting March at Grand Parade, Bath.ToList
To face page 22.
In the third week of June, 1915, the 17th H.L.I. changed quarters from the flat stifling district of Prees-Heath to the breezy upland valley of Wensleydale, in the North Riding of Yorkshire. There is hardly a level acre in the district, but this was a welcome change. Many an enjoyable journey was made, in the intervals of Brigade Training, northward to lonely Swaledale, south to Coverdale, across the Valley of the Yore, to the prominent peak of Penhill, or to the beautiful Aysgarth Falls.
The Infantry Brigade, the 97th, had the 95th and the South Irish Horse as comrades for the training round Leyburn and Middleham, and Bellerby Moors; and some pleasant friendships were formed with the Warwickshire and Gloucestershire lads, and with the "foine foightin' bhoys" from Cork and Tipperary.
On the 27th of July tents were shifted to Totley Rifle Ranges in Derbyshire, where the preliminary Musketry Course was fired by the Battalion during the next fortnight, with most creditable results. The men made themselves great favourites in Totley and Dore, and at Sheffield, where they received a very hospitable welcome at all times, and especially on the occasion of a memorable route march through that city on 9th August. The Battalion was given an enthusiastic send-off at Dore and Beauchief Stations on 10th August, when entraining for Salisbury Plain, the scene of their next training ground.
When the Seventeenth steamed into the station at Codford St. Mary, on 11th August, and saw the occasional houses peeping through the tall trees, it was the thought that, after the bustle and stir of Totley, they had indeed become soldiers in earnest. The Camp Warden strengthened this belief with his assurance that no unit stayed longer than six weeks in the Camp, and after that,—Southampton and France, for the testing andproof of all that had been learnt so eagerly. As it turned out, three months were spent at Codford—months of rigorous training, of long interesting divisional manœuvres, and general hardening. The men learned to dig trenches quickly and well, for they had to spend nights in them; to march many miles without complaint, and fight at the end of the hardest day's march; to use Lewis guns, not as amateurs with a strange toy, but as men whose lives depended on their speed and ability. The mysteries of transport, and the value of a timetable were revealed.
Needless to say these days of field exercises were not lacking in some amusing incidents which seem to dog the footsteps of peace conditions manœuvres and which act as very welcome episodes amid the hard work that such training involves. Towards the close of one of the periodical manœuvres carried out by the Seventeenth under the critical eye of an Inspecting General a bugle had sounded and the manœuvres ceased. Officers grouped together and men lay on their backs and talked. The General turned to one of the Battalion officers who were now beginning to assemble round him, and said, "What was that call?" He often did such things as this to test knowledge of detail. "The Stand Fast," said the officer to whom the question was addressed. "Oh! come! come!" said the General, "Now, what was it?" he further questioned a Company Commander. No reply came. Then he turned to the Second in Command, "Now, Major, what was it? Tell him." "The Stand Fast, sir," said the Major. "Really," said the General, "you gentlemen must learn the elementary things in soldiering. Bugler, tell these gentlemen what that call was." "The Stand Fast, sir," replied the bugler. The General hurried on with the conference!
At Codford the Battalion had its first taste of army biscuit and bully-beef. From Monday to Thursday manœuvres were held; on Friday, "clean up," and on Saturday, after the Colonel's inspection, the luckier ones went to Bath and Bristol for the day, or to London or Bournemouth for the week-end. Friday was pay day—"Seven Shillings me lucky lad," and after pay-out, the reading of the Army Act or a Lecture on bayonet-fighting or tactics. Games flourished. The Battalion football team played and defeated Bath City, and met the otherBattalions of the Division at Rugby Football, and invariably won. On the ranges with rifle and Lewis gun, the Battalion maintained its place astheBattalion in the Division.
Officers of the Battalion at Mar Lodge, Troon, 1915.Officers of the Battalion at Mar Lodge, Troon, 1915.ToListTo face page 24.
Officers of the Battalion at Mar Lodge, Troon, 1915.ToList
To face page 24.
Visit of the Directors of the Chamber of Commerce, Troon, 1915.Visit of the Directors of the Chamber of Commerce, Troon, 1915.ToListTo face page 25.
Visit of the Directors of the Chamber of Commerce, Troon, 1915.ToList
To face page 25.
At last word was received that the Battalion would cross to France on November 22nd. Only fifty per cent. got week-end leave—there was no time for more. Training was over. Few will forget the brave skirl of the pipes as the Battalion swung home in the morning from Yarnbury Castle, file after file silhouetted against the orange and gold of the rising sun. Always, when the wind blows fresh and sweet in the morning, those who are left of those happy times will think of Codford, the "jumping off place" of the Seventeenth for France.
The following message of God-speed and goodwill was received by the Battalion as part of the 32nd Division before setting out:—
"17th Service Battalion Highland Light Infantry."Brigade Order No. 1285, of 19th November, 1915."Message from His Majesty the King."Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the 32nd Division, on the eve of your departure for Active Service I send you my heartfelt good wishes."It is a bitter disappointment to me, owing to an unfortunate accident, I am unable to see the Division on Parade before it leaves England; but I can assure you that my thoughts are with you all."Your period of training has been long and arduous, but the time has now come for you to prove on the Field of Battle the results of your instruction."From the good accounts that I have received of the Division, I am confident that the high traditions of the British Army are safe in your hands, and that with your comrades now in the Field you will maintain the unceasing efforts necessary to bring the War to a victorious ending."Good-bye and God-speed."
"17th Service Battalion Highland Light Infantry."Brigade Order No. 1285, of 19th November, 1915."Message from His Majesty the King.
"Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the 32nd Division, on the eve of your departure for Active Service I send you my heartfelt good wishes.
"It is a bitter disappointment to me, owing to an unfortunate accident, I am unable to see the Division on Parade before it leaves England; but I can assure you that my thoughts are with you all.
"Your period of training has been long and arduous, but the time has now come for you to prove on the Field of Battle the results of your instruction.
"From the good accounts that I have received of the Division, I am confident that the high traditions of the British Army are safe in your hands, and that with your comrades now in the Field you will maintain the unceasing efforts necessary to bring the War to a victorious ending.
"Good-bye and God-speed."
To the above message the following reply was sent:—
"Please convey to His Majesty the heartfelt thanks of all ranks of the 32nd Division for His gracious message and their determination to justify His expectations."The Division deeply regrets the accident which has deprived it of the honour of a visit from His Majesty, and humbly offers its best wishes for His Majesty's speedy and complete recovery."
"Please convey to His Majesty the heartfelt thanks of all ranks of the 32nd Division for His gracious message and their determination to justify His expectations.
"The Division deeply regrets the accident which has deprived it of the honour of a visit from His Majesty, and humbly offers its best wishes for His Majesty's speedy and complete recovery."
On Sunday, 21st November, 1915, the Battalion paraded in full strength, 1,032 all ranks, at their hutments, Codford. A minute and final inspection was made, and everything pronounced to be in order. A memorable feature of this parade was the head-gear, Balmoral bonnets of the war service pattern being worn for the first time. Next morning the Battalion left Codford in three parties for Southampton, and without any delay embarked on two transports for Havre, the remainder of the Division goingviaBoulogne. It was a perfect crossing, no wind, bright moonlight, with everyone in the best of spirits.
At 7 a.m. on the 23rd, the troops disembarked at the port of Havre and marched off at once to the Rest Camp, three miles away, great interest being displayed in the few German prisoners working on the docks. On arrival the Battalion found it was under canvas, no floor boards and plenty of mud—a first taste of real discomfort. Moreover the day was raw, with a suspicion of snow, and no one was sorry when it was announced that the Camp was being left first thing in the morning. That evening a few of the Officers visited the town itself, and others went out on a first reconnaissance to discover the route to the station, and the Ration Depot.
The next day, after drawing two days' rations as well as "Iron Rations," the Battalion left for the "Front,"—"A," "B," and "C" Companies going off at 1.15 p.m., and "D" Company following a few hours later.
Chamber of Commerce Battalion, Troon, April, 1915.Chamber of Commerce Battalion, Troon, April, 1915.ToList
Chamber of Commerce Battalion, Troon, April, 1915.ToList
Arrival at Havre—March to the forward area—Bouzincourt and Millencourt—instructional tour of front line trenches—condition of trenches—first casualties—Molliens.
Arrival at Havre—March to the forward area—Bouzincourt and Millencourt—instructional tour of front line trenches—condition of trenches—first casualties—Molliens.
The Battalion arrived at the Port of Le Havre, disembarked in high spirits, and in the morning of 23rd November, 1915, part of the troops left the docks for a three mile trek to a rest camp; but soon the Battalion set out on its first journey "up the line" in cattle trucks. Travelling through the night of the 24th, via Rouen and Amiens, the unit reached Pont Remy, some twelve miles east of Abbeville, in the early hours of the following day, and soon had commenced their first route march into the battle-ways of France, and, incidentally, at the first resting place, Mouflers, made cheerily light of what was their first experience of faulty billeting arrangements. One billet, for 150 men, at the Folie Auberge was uninhabitable, and the appearance of the billets in general was greeted with good-natured growls of amazement and disgust. The weather, however, was mild and sunny, and after about eight hours' work all the troops were more or less under cover. When every incident was an experience novel and suggestive, such minor discomforts did not trouble anyone seriously; but considered in retrospect it must be admitted that these, their first billets, were very poor for a village so far behind the line. If it was an unpromising beginning for the companies, itproved a delusion and a snare for headquarters, for they scored on this occasion in having at the Chateau the most comfortable billets they ever were fated to enjoy.
The next day was spent in resting, and on the 27th the march was continued along the magnificent Amiens Road, through Felixcourt and Belloy-sur-Somme to La Chaussee. This was a day of keen frost and bright sunshine, and headed by the band, the 17th stepped out through the various villages in the best of spirits. Following the same column was the 17th Northumberland Fusiliers and two A.S.C. Companies. That night the billets were good, everyone felt somehow in holiday mood, helped perhaps by the successful bargaining for eggs, chickens and wine, for to make purchases at all was even at that early date a matter for rejoicing. The pipers delighted with their playing the heart of Madame la Comptesse at her chateau at Turancourt where Brigade headquarters were stationed.
On the 28th, a bitterly cold day, the Battalion marched eleven miles via Coisy and Ranneville to Molliens-au-Bois, and there they stayed until the morning of December 1st, when they were joined by M. Duchamps, interpreter. Molliens-au-Bois lies about eight miles north of Amiens, but the outstanding feature was that, from the high ground above there was got the first glimpse of the illuminations provided nightly by the Bosche, all along the battle front.
On 1st December they left at 8.15 a.m., in company with the 16th H.L.I., and on the way a Company of the 17th Northumberland Fusiliers joined the column, which now was moving into the front area.
During the afternoon of that day, the Officers and N.C.O.s of "A" and "B" Companies went from Bouzincourt into the front line trenches, just north of Albert, and were attached for instruction to the 7th Gordons and the 7th Black Watch of the 51st Division, and on the following day these two Companies joined their Officers in the front line for one night. The trenches were in a very bad condition after hard frost and heavy rain. Parts of the trenches were collapsing under the severe conditions and cases were reported from neighbouring units of men being drowned in the mud and water.
On the 3rd and 4th December "C" and "D" Companies from Millencourt went through a similar programme. On the 6ththe front line only of Sectors F1 and F2 were taken over, and then on the 8th the whole Battalion took over Sector F1—some 2,000 yards of system from just north of La Boisselle towards Authuille (Blighty) Wood. The front line and communication trenches were knee deep in water and the trench shelters were poor. Rats galore and of enormous size added to the amenity of the district.
Havre.Havre.ToList
Havre.ToList
Ruins of Bethune.Ruins of Bethune.ToListTo face page 28.
Ruins of Bethune.ToList
To face page 28.
On the 4th of December the 17th suffered their first casualty by enemy action, Pte. J.M. Harper, "A" Company, being wounded by a rifle grenade.
The next day Ptes. A. Taylor and R. Cross, of "D" Company, were wounded while bringing up rations. On the afternoon of the 11th, the Battalion, having completed its course of practical instruction, was relieved, and returned, two Companies to Bouzincourt, two to Millencourt. During the relief the enemy shelled the position heavily, and the Battalion was fortunate in escaping with only one casualty, Pte. R. M'Kelvie of "B" Company. The next day the Battalion marched back to Molliens-au-Bois, via Senlis and Beaucourt, to recuperate after their opening experience of active trench warfare conditions. The mud and water and the delapidated condition of the trenches were indeed an eye-opener to the men, as much as the comparative absence of "enemy activity." As they tramped back to Molliens, they passed some Companies of the 15th H.L.I. en route for their first spell, and their blank astonishment at the muddy appearance of the returning 17th Battalion was much appreciated by the war-worn veterans!
All ranks received a good reception from the villagers, and the next few days were spent in resting, inspections and training. Considerable time was taken up in making duck-boards from the smaller trees of a wood near the village until this exercise was stopped by the forester. A few secured the grant of leave to Amiens, a privilege greatly enjoyed. The work of the organisations home in Glasgow and the interest taken in the Regiment and the men of the 17th Battalion soon became manifested by the arrival of parcels to such an extent that the postal arrangements were severely strained!
In the line—Xmas '15 and the New Year—the new trench—"Standing to"—routine and patrols.
In the line—Xmas '15 and the New Year—the new trench—"Standing to"—routine and patrols.
The Battalion returned to the line from Molliens-au-Bois on 23rd December, 1915, and from then till 17th February, 1916, held the Sector F1 alternately with the 11th Border Regiment. The outstanding features of this period were the digging and then the taking over of the new trenches across the big re-entrant on their right on 2nd February, and the enemy raid on the 2nd K.O.Y.L.I., on their left on 9th February.
It will be noted that this spell of trench warfare activities brackets in both Christmas and New Year—both of which were accordingly spent in the front line trenches. As far as possible Christmas fare was provided in the line, and strict orders were issued that if the enemy made any friendly offers they were to be rejected strenuously. The only exchange of greetings notified for Christmas and New Year in the Official War Diary of the Battalion is a brief record of shelling and machine gunning. But during this period the Battalion had nevertheless very few casualties—only seven killed, including two died of wounds. The first casualty was Corporal Houston of No. 16 Platoon, who was killed at Lower Donnet on 3rd January.
Except for patrol work, the piece of work carried out on 2nd February, 1916, in connection with the new trenches was the first military operation carried out by the 17th when in close touch with the enemy, and it was confined to "B" Company and a Platoon of "A" Company, who acted as covering party.
For some time the Battalion had been exercised in night manœuvres, and on 1st February they had a full-dress rehearsal of the impending operation, which, on Tuesday, 2nd February, came off sooner than had been anticipated. The scheme was to form a new line of trenches, protected by wire, nearer the German line, some 300 yards in front of the existing one, the length dug being about 600 yards, with communication trenches in addition.
At 6 p.m., in pitch darkness, "B" Company filed out into "no man's land." Instructions were, "No firing, bayonet only if necessary." There were Hun flares and machine guns, but no search-light. Had the enemy but used the light, all might have been spoiled. Their lives depended on no Hun reaching their line, or getting back with information. They went straight out the 600 yards without a hitch. That fixed their right flank, where Major J.R. Young was in command. Captain Russell led his half Company 500 yards straight across the front, with two scouts on either side, checking. At every five yards a man dropped and was placed, facing his proper front. They moved slowly, snail pace, but only three times in the 500 yards had the line to drop flat, until the last man was placed. The next thing was to get in touch with "A" Company, who were putting out the platoon to guard "B" Company's left flank. Rather jumpy work, this joining hands in pitch darkness. It was a long, silent night. At 9.30 the tinkling sound of the wire being fixed was heard, and they knew from this that the digging had commenced—some 800 men, good and true, working silently as they had never worked before.
When 1.30 a.m. came their time was up. The right half Company, under Major Young, rose silently, and crept off to a place in the wire where a gap had been arranged for the men to pass through. Captain Russell with the left half Company followed. The wiring and digging went on till 3 a.m., protected by patrols sent out in front of the wire. A new trench, with communication trenches, had been laid 300 yards out from their old line, protected by treble staked wire, on a frontage of 600 yards. The new trench was held till dawn before handing over. There was no hitch, and not a man wounded. The Battalion would have given much to see the Huns' faces when they looked across and found that long line of serpentine earth and wire shoved out under their noses. There would probably be some court-martialling of their patrols. Everything worked in absolute harmony, and with perfect success, and all got back safe to tell the tale. The Hun discovered what had been done only the following morning when all was over.
The lack of the more strenuous forms of active service excitement during the digging of this trench was more thanmade up for in the week following—when it was manned nightly in full strength, in spite of severe bombardment by the enemy.
After the successful and useful piece of work in advancing the line just described, the Battalion settled down to a period of normal trench warfare and intensive training, but managed to slip in a game of Rugger and an Association game or two. Intermittent spells of artillery and trench mortar and gas shell bombardments of varying severity disturbed the sector, but despite this the unit not only immediately repaired any damage done, but considerably extended and improved the system.
On the 9th of February the shelling became very heavy, culminating towards evening in an intense bombardment on the sector lying to the left of F1. At the same time an attempt was made to neutralise the fire of the British batteries on the Ancre by gas shells. Intense excitement prevailed in the Battalion, which was billeted in Aveluy, in Brigade support, when it was called on to "stand to" and man the bridge-head defences. Meantime the Hun carried out a raid on a part of the line known as the Nab, which was occupied by the 2nd K.O.Y.L.I. This point was occupied for half-an-hour or so by the enemy, who picked up about eleven K.O.Y.L.I. prisoners and then retired. The K.O.Y.L.I. suffered some sixty casualties in killed, wounded and missing, so "B" Company and part of "C" of the 17th were rushed up into the raided sector to reinforce the battered garrison, and stayed there till morning.
Again the conditions stereotyped themselves into that nerve racking ordeal known to the civilian public as "nothing to report"—the type of warfare recognised by all who have any experience of modern active service life as calling for all that is highest in regimental efficiency and discipline, and individual initiative and grit. The weather, taking it all over, was wet and stormy, causing endless work in repairing the line and pumping the trenches clear of water. But the bright star in this bloody, muddy firmament was the commencement of leave, which opened about the 14th February. Even if your name was well down the list, or not yet even on it at all, a new species of keen counter-attraction was provided to the demands of war.
The "Red" Division—in the line at Authuille—Colonel Morton wounded on March 21st—a raid postponed—carried out on 22nd—success of Lieut. Begg's party—congratulatory messages and awards.
The "Red" Division—in the line at Authuille—Colonel Morton wounded on March 21st—a raid postponed—carried out on 22nd—success of Lieut. Begg's party—congratulatory messages and awards.
On 17th February, 1916, the 97th Brigade was relieved by the 96th Brigade, and consequently the Battalion moved back for an expected rest of some weeks. The 15th Lancashire Fusiliers took over the Battalion Sector, and the 17th went into billets at Millencourt. Many fatigues were carried out round about Albert, the principal work being the laying of cables and the improving of roads. On the 24th, quarters were changed to Henencourt and from billets into huts in the wood—most unpleasant, firstly on account of snow and frost, and then, following a thaw, on account of knee-deep mud. But a further change on the 29th to Dernancourt brought back billets good and comfortable.
The attack on Verdun had upset the plans which had been made to give the Brigade the rest which it had been anticipating, and this last move to Dernancourt brought them into the line once more, just south of Albert.
The 32nd Division, by now, with good cause, had been named by the Germans as the "Red" Division because the Hun was given no rest by the Divisional Artillery and constant raids, and on account of the red distinguishing marks worn by all ranks of the Division on their tunic sleeves. The 32nd took over from the 18th Division, and on the 1st of March, 1916, the Brigade was in Divisional Reserve. On the 3rd of March, the 97th Brigade relieved the 14th Brigade, the 11th Border Regiment and 2nd K.O.Y.L.I. taking over. On March 10th the 17th H.L.I. relieved the 11th Border Regiment, and so once more they were in immediate face of the enemy. This sector was in front of Becourt Chateau, between Fricourt and La Boiselle.
A considerable amount of wiring was done, but life here was comparatively pleasant and the return of spring muchappreciated. But, unfortunately, on the 21st of March, Col. Morton was wounded at Albert, Major Paul taking over command of the Battalion.
Working parties were heavy, and on one occasion the Bosche blew a camouflet while work was in progress. During this period great preparations were made for a raid, and there was keen competition for a place in the selected party. The night selected for the raid, 2nd April, however, was unfortunately bright, and this combined with the fact that the enemy, by means of listening apparatus, seemed fully aware of what was on, led to a postponement when actually in "no man's land." The hazardous work of laying the guide tape preparatory to the abandoned raid was carried out by 2nd Lieut. H. MacRobert and Corpl. J. Chapman.
This Sector was left on the 4th of April, and the Battalion, being relieved by the 2nd Scottish Rifles, of the 23rd Brigade, 8th Division, moved to Bouzincourt and went into huts vacated by the 2nd Inniskillens.
After a week's rest at Bouzincourt the Battalion returned to the line at Authuille, on 12th April, 1916, the 97th Brigade holding the line between that village and north to Thiepval, with the two other Brigades behind, in support and in reserve. Alternately in the line, in support, and in reserve, the 17th remained in this Sector until the opening of the Somme Battle on 1st July, 1916. But the period was not without stirring incident. By the 15th of April final arrangements were being made to carry out what was to prove a highly successful raid on the enemy, which operation was accomplished on 22nd April.
"23rd April, 1916,—Last night we made a successful raid against the enemy's trenches, south-west of Thiepval. Thirteen prisoners were captured, and in addition, a number of casualties were caused to the enemy by our men bombing their dug-outs. Our casualties were very slight."
This bald official statement of the 17th H.L.I.'s first raid is to the lay mind singularly unimpressive, but behind it there is an interest and a measure of glory of which the 17th is happy to be proud. Let it be remembered that it was their first "stunt," their first real hand to hand brush with the enemy, and that to the 17th fell the honour of getting the first "jab in" for the 32nd Division.