42nd Battalion AIF
ADVENTURE
Off to the Front.
Departure from Salisbury Plain.
Saturday, November 25th, 1916 witnessed the departure from Salisbury Plain of the 42nd Battalion. After chafing for months under the routine of drill and exercise, the Battalion at last emerged as a smart, well equipped, highly trained fighting unit, with every man fit and eager to get to grips with the enemy. Its strength was 33 officers and 994 other ranks.
Reveille was sounded at 4.30 a.m. It was a cold bleak morning on which we partook of our last breakfast at Number 11 Camp, Larkhill. After the meal a period of tremendous hustle and bustle ensued. There was the strapping and unstrapping of equipment, the packing of packs, to say nothing of the unceasing struggles to get all personal possessions, gear, ammunition, rations, blankets and utensils securely buckled to our bodies. These weighed approximately 100 Ibs., exclusive of rifles.
At length we fell in for final inspection, then off we went on the four-mile journey to Amesbury railway station, gaily marching to the strains of the "Colonel Bogey March," played by the Battalion Band. The skirl of the pipes also helped us along.
THE AUSTRALIAN BLACK WATCH
Our Battalion bore the same regimental number as the Highland Regiment called "The Black Watch," hence the 42nd Battalion AIF was jocularly referred to as "The Australian Black Watch." A drum and pipe band always accompanied us. It may have been a coincidence, but we certainly did receive into our ranks, a number of men who were either born Scotsmen or of Scottish descent.
SOUTHAMPTON The Battalion left Amesbury in three trains, which arrived at Southampton at 11 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. respectively. Here in large sheds adjacent to the wharf we remained waiting for darkness to fall. It was not advisable for transports to cross the English Channel in daylight.
During the long hours that elapsed we consumed countless buns and cakes, vast quantities of chocolate, fruit, chew-gum and other kinds of edibles which were purchasable at the canteens in the sheds. We smoked countless cigarettes and drank every kind of liquid available. This was the only relief we got during the tedious and monotonous afternoon and evening.
At last the long weary wait came to an end and we gladly received, and cheerfully obeyed, the order to "Fall in." Embarkation on the Channel transports started at 8 p.m. and after a rough passage, Le Havre was reached the following morning (Sunday).
LE HAVRE REST CAMP
Disembarkation took place at midday amid a storm of rain and sleet. In spite of the weather' the French civilians turned out "en masse" to welcome us. We shouted in French, telling them that the War would soon be over, now that the 42nd had arrived, but the townsfolk just stared and made no reply. It seemed to us that they did not understand their own language. A long trying hill at the end of a six-mile march ushered the Battalion into the "Rest Camp" (so-called).
What a desolate scene met our eyes. The ground oozed with mud and rows of discoloured sodden tents stood there dripping and leaking, offering very dubious shelter. Our first night out from England was spent in an uninviting atmosphere of gloom and dejection.
OOTERSTEENE
It was with much pleasure that we left Le Havre early next morning. The march to the station was downhill and therefore a lot easier. We spent the next 30 hours travelling by train, in horse boxes, which were Marked: "8 chevaux, 40 hommes." That meant the truck was supposed to accommodate either eight horses or forty men. We reached Bailleul at 3 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon. Thence we marched to the village of Ootersteene. When we got there, we found the place wrapped in a dense mantle of fog. We had to wait some considerable time in the streets before billeting arrangements were completed.
It was fortunate for us that we had with us two brothers each a proficient linguist. They acted as interpreters on many occasions and thus greatly facilitated smoothing out the difficulties which we occasionally got with the French authorities and civilians. It was a novelty to us to find ourselves living in schools and halls, barns and out-houses, all more or less in a state of disrepair.
Five days were spent in Ootersteene, training and getting used to the unusual conditions. It was here that were issued with our "Box-respirators," and drilled in the use of them. These were our protection from the gas used by the enemy. We looked a weird lot of objects our faces completely encased in rubber masks, with glass covered apertures to see through, obtaining our air through a snake-like tube attached to the respirator. The term "Box-respirator" was soon corrupted into "Gasp-irator." It was here, too, that we embarked upon our serious attempts to master the French language. We experienced our first "Pay-day" in the field, which led many a 42nd man to cultivate an appetite for Egg and Chip Banquets," and a taste for Vin Blanc and Rouge.
ARMENTIERES.
On December 6th Ootersteene was left behind and marched thence through Bailleul on to Armentieres, arriving there late in the afternoon and were billeted at a cotton factory in Rue de la Paix with our headquarters in rue Sadi Carnot. Prior to the War, Armentieres was a hive of industry, containing factories of all descriptions, especially for weaving woollen, cotton and canvas goods. It is not possible to recall our early days spent in that town with out visualising the scenes of intense activity which continued despite the fact that part of the town formed portion of our Front Line. Civilians carried on their various avocations, whilst cafes and estaminets reaped a rich harvest from the constantly arriving and departing troops. Little Mesdemoiselles came round to our billets in the cold dark hours of the wintry mornings with cakes and cups of hot coffee, for which they charged us deux sous (two half-pennies), and the young boys, whom we called petits garcons, came as far as our subsidiary lines to sell us the daily papers.
We found the town badly knocked about, especially the churches, but considering its proximity to the front line certain parts were wonderfully intact.
Whilst here we made purchases of many kinds of fancy goods such as laces and silks, and elaborate post cards. There were many shops in the vicinity of the ruined Town Hall, which stood in a Square, designated by the troops as "Half-past Eleven Square," due to the fact that the hands of the Town Hall clock, which had been hit some months prior to our arrival, stopped at 11.30 and remained so. A few months later, Armentieres was bombarded by gas shells, which forced the civilians to evacuate. The town was ultimately reduced to ruins.
Nowadays, when the name of Armentieres is mentioned, it brings to memory a fictitious French lady of whom songs of many versions have been sung. It is more than likely that future generations will smile at episodes that have been woven around the idiosyncrasies and character of "Mademoiselle from Armentieres."
OUR FIRST CASUALTY IN THE WAR ZONE
Although we found the town very quiet upon arrival, it was only three days later, on Sunday, December 10th, that we were startled by a sudden bombardment. It was during this shelling that our first casualty in the War Zone occurred. The first man killed in our Battalion was Sergeant Hannah, when standing near a church close to our billets.
THE BATH PARADE
General training continued assiduously, and now we were introduced to another active service institution, namely, the Bath Parade. Eight to twelve men were placed in parties. Each of these parties bathed together in large beer vats filled with hot water and disinfectant. When the bathers had been in the bath the allotted time, the attendant let in more and more hot water until the temperature was too high for any human being to endure. Changes of underclothing were issued prior to entering the bath. Meanwhile, tunics and breeches underwent fumigation and hot irons were pressed along the seams of the garments in order to kill the vermin, called "chats," and their eggs. Up to this time the Third Division was considered clean, but hence onwards it became as lousy as all the other Divisions.
INSPECTION BY THE COMMANDER-in-CHIEF
On Friday, December 22nd, the 42nd Battalion with other units of the Third Division was inspected at Stonework by General Sir Douglas Haig, Commander-in-chief of the British Expeditionary Forces, who complimented the men upon their soldierly appearance and bearing.
OUR FIRST CHRISTMAS ON ACTIVE SERVICE
The following day, Saturday December 23rd fifty per cent of the specialists, that is, machine-gunners, signallers, bombers, etc., of the 36th Battalion, then holding the line, were relieved by the same number of specialists of the 42nd Battalion. The rest of us made our initial entry into the front line trenches the next day.
In the early hours of the morning, before the dawn of Christmas Eve, under the cover of darkness, we stole silently across Half-past Eleven Square and Barbed-wire Square, which were enveloped in a blanket of snow. We were loaded up with full pack and equipment and went steadily on until a large red building was reached
THE GUM-BOOT STORE
This was called "The Gum-boot Store." Here every man was issued with a pair of rubber boots, which had to be returned when the term in the trenches was over. These boots reached from the toes up to the thighs, and after a while, created a freezing sensation in the feet. They seemed to accumulate as much moisture as they were designed to keep out. This was due to the condensing of the perspiration from the body. Alongside of the Gumboot Store was a YMCA canteen, where tea and biscuits could be obtained prior to entering the trenches.
LUNATIC LANE
The system of trenches in front of Armentieres was eventually entered by a communicating trench called Lunatic Lane, so named after the Lunatic Asylum, which stood at the head.
We experienced much difficulty getting through the trenches with our full packs and equipment, and an unauthorised blanket or two. Especially was this so when we met parties of troops coming from the opposite direction whom we had to pass. We, however, were learning. Ever afterwards, our packs and blankets were left at the Quartermaster's store prior to taking over the line, and they were called for again upon our relief.
CHRISTMAS EVE AND CHRISTMAS DAY, 1916
These two days were unexpectedly quiet.A pleasing feature, and to us a great surprise, was to discover how exceedingly well the organisation of the Battalion was being maintained. The transport brought their limbers right up close to the firing line. Working and carrying parties, working forwards and backwards, like streams of ants, kept the troops supplied with ammunition, wire and all the necessities for carrying on warfare.
The comfort of the men was not neglected. The Battalion cooks, who were always referred to as "The Babbling Brooks," installed their travelling kitchens in the subsidiary lines. There were four of these cookers, one to each company. Throughout the day the cooks kept us supplied with hot food. There was tea, morning and evening, and stew at midday. These meals were brought up from the cooks by mess-orderlies who worked together in pairs. Strapped to the back of one of them was a large vacuum container filled with either stew or tea. These were always acceptable and generally quite hot.
The mess-orderlies also distributed the large Army biscuits that we called "Anzac Wafers," on account of their thickness and weight. They also brought round issues of cheese tins of 'bully beef, jam and bread. The latter, when plentiful, would work out at a daily ration of "four men to a loaf." These commodities were carried around in sandbags, which had a way of shedding their jutey hairs on the contents. Especially did they spread themselves on the cheese and margarine, which was the name of the substitute for butter.
POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS
The postal arrangements were well administered. Our letters and parcels were delivered right up to the front line trenches. The regularity that was displayed by the transport and other quartermaster's details deserves to be recorded as an outstanding feature of excellent organisation.
GIFTS FROM THE AUSTRALIAN COMFORTS FUND
The distribution of gifts from the Australian Comforts Fund was greatly appreciated. This narrative would be incomplete did it not contain a reference to those splendid Australian women and girls, the mothers, wives, daughters, and sweethearts of the men who were fighting. It is fitting to record the manner in which they kept us supplied with comforts otherwise unobtainable.
Some of these parcels of comforts were delivered to us on Christmas Day and contained among other things, Christmas puddings. These were served up to us, steaming hot and in perfect condition. The parcels also contained tins of cocoa and milk, ready to be made hot at any time by the aid of blocks of composition containing mainly Benzoline, and known to us by the name of "Tommy Cookers." Besides these, there were fruitcakes, confectionery and tins of various delicacies. There were socks, gloves and cap-comforters, knitted by loving hands. These prevented the cold penetrating the extremities whilst large sheepskin vests kept our bodies warm.
THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR FIRST EXPERIENCE IN THE TRENCHES
Although there is no record that shows that anything of outstanding importance occurred during this, our first term in the trenches, yet it was a period over which the Battalion had been subjected to a most serious and vital trial.
Officers and men alike had been put to the test. It was our initiation. All ranks from the Battalion Commander down to the lowliest private soldier had learnt what was likely to be expected of him, and how he might be called upon to act spontaneously in cases of emergency. Here we had received first-hand knowledge and insight into the workings of the military machine. Here we proved conclusively that our training had hardened us to withstand the rigours of intense cold and discomfort, and here it was that we learnt that it is possible to bear the deafening and demoralising roar of hostile artillery barrages unflinchingly and with unimpaired nerve.
Nightly our wiring parties and patrols climbed over the top to strengthen our defences and to learn what could be learnt about the enemy's.
It was during this period we experienced the eeriness of No-man's Land, got used to machine-gun bursts, to the "ping" of bullets, to the weird shadows moving up and down, backwards and forwards, as the enemy's star-shells rose and fell, and to the feeling that at any moment a hostile patrol might be encountered.
PARAPET JOE
We did our share of sniping and got in some good practice with our machine-guns. There was one German machine-gunner who deserves to be remembered in these annals. He swept the parapet with precision, and at the same time amused us with his rhythm and syncopation. Although we never met him, we gave him a name and christened him "Parapet Joe."
NEW YEAR'S DAY, 1917.
On this day we were relieved in the trenches by the 44th Battalion, and assumed that we were out of the line for a while, but we had yet to learn of a military paradox that existed, namely: "When you are in the Line-you are in. And when you are out of the Line-you are still in."
And so it was with us. No sooner were we relieved in the trenches than the entire Battalion was ordered back again employed as working parties.
WORKING PARTIES
A working party consisted of detachments of men sent out to perform certain laborious work, such as digging trenches and laying cables. There were also "carrying parties," for taking up to the front line barbed wire, duckboards, ammunition, etc. "Wiring parties" laid barbed wire entanglements in No-man's Land in front of our trenches. There were also "ration parties" for carrying rations and "burial parties."
A working party might be under the supervision of an engineer and build railways and construct concrete dug-outs, or be directed by some pioneer officer in the reveting of trenches and the laying of duckboard tracks. They also built gun pits for the artillery and emplacements for the Stoke's Mortar Batteries.
Decidedly, the infantry was the "handmaiden" of all the technical units.
MORE 42nd INITIATIVE
It was in the performance of one of these tasks that the spirit of the Battalion's initiative again came to the fore.
The Brigade Staff was particularly fussy about certain details, such as the exact time the working party reported, the quantity of work performed, but most especially, the exact number of men who were detailed for the job.
Instinctively we learnt how to avoid difficulties and to observe the brewing of trouble. On one occasion a working party of one hundred was detailed to report to an engineer officer for the job of burying a cable. Only ninety-six men assembled. It was too cold to wait about for the other four stragglers, so the N.C.O. in charge marched them off and everyone thought all was well, until suddenly a Staff Officer was observed standing ready to check their numbers. Half the party marched by the officer and was counted, and then whilst he was busily engaged in checking the remainder, the four men who comprised the leading file doubled round the nearest street corner, re-joined the party at the rear and marched past as the last four, and thus made up the full complement.
VEPINETTE SALIENT
Whilst at Armentieres we occupied a sector in the Houplines district, called L'Epinette Salient, which was approached by trenches known as Quality Street and Willow Walk. The names of the communicating trenches to right, left and centre sectors were, respectively, Plank Avenue, Japan Road, and Second House Avenue.
The 42nd remained in this locality, until relieved by the 35th Battalion on March 11th. In the meantime the usual trench warfare continued, casualties occurred daily, whilst the weather was exceedingly rigorous; in fact, it was the coldest winter known in these parts for many years past.
SATURDAY AFTERNOON MINNIE STRAAF
On Saturday, January 20th our trenches were subjected to intense bombardment by Minenwerfer and high explosive shells, resulting in casualties to the extent of one officer shell-shocked and two killed and twelve wounded, other ranks. Among the miraculous escapes was that of a D Company man who was buried when a "Minnie" blew in his "gun possie," but was unearthed when another "Minnie" fell close by.
The first Military Medal awarded to the Battalion was earned this day.
"MINNIES"
One of the deadliest of trench-mortar bombs used against us was the "Minenwerfer," more intimately known to us by the term "Minnie." These bombs exploded with a deafening noise and the concussion was nerve wracking. They were so large that it was possible to trace their progress through the air, although in the final descent their course was erratic. At night they appeared like large blood-red sticks in the sky.
In spite of the destruction they caused to life and defences and the demoralisation they were calculated to create, we at length became so used to them that we were able to await and meet the heaviest "Minnie Barrage" without getting panicky.
ENEMY RUSES AND BOOBY TRAPS
Several traps and ruses were discovered by our scouts. Apparently harmless looking objects were left about in order to entrap the unwary. They were given the name of "booby traps." Our scouts found a French tricolour flag flying from a staff in front of the enemy's wire entanglements. This was obviously a trap. They discovered the strings of three stick-grenades attached to the pole holding the flag in position. The grenades were made firm in the clay. The staff was surrounded by trip wire which was strewn over the only dry route. One of the scouts, however, by wading through four feet of water disconnected the grenades and brought back the flag in spite of enemy machine guns which were trained on the spot.
The same day a patrol discovered a fixed rifle trained on to a gap in the parapet. From this point intermittent fire was carried on during the night.
A few days later further trip-wire was discovered. Two special bombs were attached to this and these were in turn fastened to an upright. The slightest strain on the trip-wire would have caused the bombs to explode. This device was destroyed by the scouts.
RAIDS ON THE ENEMY LINES
At the end of January our D Company was lent to the 10th Brigade which was occupying the Chapelle Armentieres sector. This company along with D Company of the 44th Battalion formed part of a special Battalion called "X." Our D Company was away from us for five weeks, during which time the 10th Brigade had trained and carried out a raid. Raiding at this time had become a regular habit with Australians. The object of these raids was to examine the state of the enemy's front line and supports, and to find out what enemy units were opposed to us. This was called "Identification."
The raid carried out by the 42nd on February 1st was like most of the raids carried out by other units, only partially successful. The raiding party consisted of three officers and 69 other ranks. In order to facilitate the approach to the point of assembly and to cross the snow covered ground of No-Man's Land, white suits were worn which proved invaluable by preventing detection on the journey in and out.
The 41st, 43rd, and 44th Battalions all conducted "raiding expeditions" on behalf of the 11th Brigade.
THE ENEMY RETURNS THE COMPLIMENT
With all this raiding activity on the part of the 11th Brigade it was not to be expected that the enemy would accept our attentions without attempting to reciprocate.
As we anticipated, his "return visit" eventuated in due course. The date of his "early morning call" on our Battalion was February the 14th. He signified his intention of "coming over" by dropping "visiting cards" in the shape of a barrage at 3.35 a.m. on our front line in the vicinity of Plank Avenue. An hour later the barrage ceased. It was then discovered his intended "surprise party" had arrived. They found us "At Home," and we gave them a "very warm reception," in fact we rather overdid the "welcome," for in less than two minutes "the party" was broken up, and the Hun was hunted home.
In the mix-up we sustained two casualties, but our rifle fire must have been effective for the body of a dead German was discovered next day in No-man's Land.
SPIES
During our occupation of L'Epinette and whilst billeted in Armentieres it was impressed upon all ranks to refrain from discussing anything of a military nature with strangers, or even among ourselves on account of' the espionage known to be in existence. A great deal has been written on this subject, it is, however, significant and worth recording that not only were human beings regarded as spies, but ostensibly innocent, birds and beasts became objects of suspicion.
The records of the 11th Brigade contain the information that on February the 5th, at noon two pigeons flew over from Armentieres towards the enemy lines. The next day, a black dog endeavoured to get through one of the gaps in our defences. This animal was shot dead by a Lewis gunner. Again on February the 17th, more pigeons crossed our lines, and on that same night and on the night previous, lights were observed flashing from the enemy lines whilst at the same time a signalling light was noticed in the vicinity of Armentieres directed towards the enemy lines. This supplies a very obvious reason why raids in this sector were accompanied by so little success.
GAS
We continued our activities in the same manner until our relief on March 11th. Up to that time it has not been recorded that we were subjected to any gas attack, although the enemy was using it in the Sector we occupied. In fact, on February the 18th, gas shells were used on our sister Battalion, the 44th, from which happily no casualties resulted.
PONT DE NIEPPE AND PLOEGSTEERT
On March 12th, our C Company was lent to the 44th Battalion to take over a new system of trenches in Ploegsteert Wood. This place was generally spoken of as "Plugstreet." The reason of this loan was to allow the 44th to carry out the last raid of the 11th Brigade prior to its departure from L'Epinette.
On March 15th we left Armentieres and took over billets from the New Zealanders at Pont de Nieppe. We were immediately engaged on "working parties," and continued so until March 19th, when we took over the line in Ploegsteert Wood.
Here we became intimately acquainted with more varieties of enemy trench mortar bombs, which we christened Coal-boxes and Rum-jars. Then there were "pineapples" sometimes called "aerial torpedoes," a kind of rifle-grenade, so that the reception we got on arriving at Plugstreet was as varied as it was warm, especially as the Hun artillery introduced us to Whiz-Bangs, Pom-poms and other products of the "Krupp" family.
We heartily reciprocated those attentions by hurling to him Stokes Mortar bombs, and some of a far more aggressive and substantial kind, from a heavy trench mortar called "The Flying Pig!'
The designations of various trenches in and around Ploegsteert Wood presented newcomers with the origin of the first occupants. For instance, it was easy to discern traces of London troops by the names of such localities and trenches as Hyde Park Corner, The Strand, Piccadilly, Regent Street, and St. James's, whilst the communicating trenches, Toronto and Ontario Avenues, indicated Canadians had been their occupants.
FURTHER ENEMY RAIDS
We were supported by New Zealanders on our left, and on March 23rd the enemy attacked the New Zealand Rifle Brigade and was repulsed. The bombardment just touched our left flank from which four casualties resulted.
We had suspicions that there was much likelihood of an enemy raid on our lines, and when on Saturday, March 24th, his artillery was particularly attentive to cutting our wire entanglements, and repeated the attentions on the following Monday, the 26th, our suspicions were confirmed.
On the night of the 26th, a heavy bombardment was laid on our lines. One minute later our S.O.S. signal was fired and this was immediately responded to by all batteries operating on S.O.S. lines. At three minutes past two, the first party of the enemy was observed in our wire.
A concentration of artillery was placed against the enemy lines. A party of raiders succeeded in reaching our parapet. We used bombs unsparingly, forcing them to withdraw without effecting an entry. In another place two of the enemy reached the top of the parapet. We wounded one of them, then both immediately made a hurried exit, leaving behind a bag of bombs and the cap of the wounded man.
At seven minutes past two a party of about twenty men was seen 40 yards away from our trenches, but no further attempt was made to enter our trenches after the withdrawal of the two isolated parties. The last of the retreating raiders was seen from our parapet at 2.25 a.m., and an hour later our patrol observed four of the enemy helping two of their wounded through the Bosche wire.
But we did not escape entirely unscathed. Our casualties were twelve wounded.
Prior to our occupation of this area it had been subject to raids by the enemy from which he had derived a certain amount of success. His failure on this occasion was attributed to the effective co-operation of all arms.
The fire of the Lewis guns and the Vickers guns in the region to be traversed in No-man's Land must have caused losses to the enemy whilst it is probable that fire from these guns prevented him from effecting an entry into our trenches.We were not sorry when on the following day, March 27th the 44th Battalion relieved us. We returned to Pont de Nieppe with the exception of No. 2 platoon, which was detached for work at Le Bizet
On April the 4th, a week later, we relieved the 44th Battalion in Ploegsteert Wood. Employed mainly on repair and construction work and active patrolling, we continued there until April the 20th, when we were relieved by the 43rd Battalion.
OOSTHOVE FARM.
The scene of our recent operations was on the border of Flanders whilst our billets were at Pont de Nieppe, adjacent to the French frontier.
On being relieved at Ploegsteert (Belgium) we moved to billets on the Flemish border, where a large farm house called Oosthove Farm was occupied by us until towards the end of April. Here we experienced a slight relaxation from the arduous duties we had been called upon to perform daily, since our arrival in France. Nevertheless, we had to furnish our daily quota of working parties, and it always seemed to us that one's own particular platoon never escaped being called upon to perform whatever work was going.
OUR FIRST BIG ROUTE MARCH
The last days of April found us back again in Armentieres, where we remained for two days preparatory to removing to the Rest and Training Area in the district of St. Omer. It was at this time that we were afforded the opportunity of recording our votes for the Australian Commonwealth Elections, which to us seemed a remarkable thing, seeing that we were thousands of miles away from the land of our birth or adoption.
Up to this time, since our arrival in France each of the four Battalions comprising the 11th Brigade had been continuously in the front line trenches, either holding the line or engaged as working parties. After nearly four months it was decided to give us a spell in order to recuperate.
The weather had improved considerably. The winter months had passed and may had opened up in all its traditional glory. We had the usual kit inspections and final inspections, and at length on May 1st, we set out on our four-day route march. We were informed that it was a competitive march, and that the four Battalions of the 11th Brigade were being watched to see whose performance was the best. Naturally we were all on our mettle, our Battalion motto being: "Cede Nullis" (yield to none).
In four days we performed a march of fifty and a-half miles, and this was the longest march we had ever undertaken. In spite of the long term we had served in the trenches and the rigorous winter we had experienced, it was apparent that we were still very fit, for on that long and exacting march only one man fell out from the column.
The first day we got as far as Pradelles (16.5 miles), via Steenwerke and Merris. The second day we reached Renescure (13 miles), via Wallon Capelle, and Ebblinghem. The third day we got as far as Tatinghem (9 miles), via Arques and St. Omer, and at length on the fourth day we reached our destination, 12 miles distant. Each of our companies was billeted at different villages. They were named Alquines, Harlettes, and Fromentelle.
Tenacity
First big battle-Messines-Warneton
We were given one day's rest to recover from the fatigue of the march, but next day we started to train more intensively than ever. We had all the routine of bayonet fighting, physical jerks, and drill. Added to these we had to practice all sorts of new stunts and general attacking methods. This went on for three weeks, and that was what was called "a rest."
The relief from continuous shell and machine-gun fire, and the absence of the roar of the artillery was without doubt a rest to the mind and nerves, but of bodily rest there was no trace, if we except the one day's leave which was granted to all in order to visit the town of St. Omer.
Quite naturally we understood that something big was coming off soon, especially as we had to carry out practices over ground that we were told was similar to that over which we should have to operate.
On May 14th we were inspected by the General Officer Commanding the British Second Army Corps and four days later the return march to the battle area began, May 18th.
We billeted for the night at Tatinghem, on the 19th Renescure was reached, on the 20th we overtook Strazelle, whilst the 21st found us back again in our old hometown of Armentieres.
PREPARATIONS FOR MESSINES BATTLE
On May 23rd, we proceeded to the trenches at Le Bizet where we relieved the 98th Battalion. Here we underwent ten days of heavy trench warfare, due to enemy bombardments which came over in reply to our excessive shelling. Preparatory to the Messines Battle raids, bombing and gas attacks by both sides were frequent at all times, both day and night. The din and roar was incessant. There was not a moment's pause in the pounding of the artillery, heavy and light. The very air was full of activity, deadly and uncompromising. The enemy's display of lights of every kind was an imposing sight. On June 2nd we were relieved and billeted at Pont de Nieppe, where we remained until the night of June 6th. In the meantime, on June 5th, our Battalion carried out a successful raid in broad daylight. Among the enemy dead were found a large proportion of lads, apparently about 17 years old.
Whilst we were in Pont de Nieppe the enemy shelled the town so unmercifully that for two days and nights we were compelled to leave the town and take to the open fields. To add to our discomfort we had gas attacks to contend with.
On the morning of the 6th of June we attempted to have a parade, but when the enemy planted shells about fifty yards in front of us, the parade was abandoned. That night we fell in at 9 p.m. on our parade ground, which adjoined a cemetery. Here we remained until midnight, when heavily laden with bombs, flares, grenades, ammunition, rations, etcetera, we made our way up to the trenches by a circuitous and, to us, hitherto unknown route.
At this point both artilleries were quiet, but an hour or so after, both sides opened out with a fury that was terrific. The Germans supplemented their shells with gas, which later on, became so heavy that we had to adjust our gas masks as we stumbled along in the darkness to our position in Bunhill Row, Ploegsteert, which we eventually reached at 3.0 a.m.
Our strength at this time was 35 officers and 976 other ranks. We were scarcely in position before a huge mine on which British engineers and sappers had been working for many months was exploded. This took place at 3.10 a.m. on the morning of June 7th. The ground trembled and everything rocked. The sensation it caused among our own troops was awesome. The noise of the terrific explosion was heard as far away as England.
It destroyed the enemy's defence system and spread demoralisation among his troops. This of course, was the object for which the mine had been laid. And thus began the first big battle in which our Battalion was employed.
OUR OBJECTIVE
The objective of the 3rd Australian Division was to attack and consolidate, firstly, the Black Line, and secondly the Green Line. The 9th and 10th Brigades attacked respectively on the right and left, whilst the 11th Brigade was held in reserve.
The area over which our engagement took place was divided into sectors, shown on the military maps by different coloured markings, so that our objectives were distinguished by calling them certain coloured lines.
The enemy's lines no longer existed. For many hundreds of yards nothing remained of all his elaborate defence system but junks of iron and splintered wood all mixed up with piles of heaved up brown earth.
Naturally, when prisoners first began to come in they were objects of much curiosity and interest, but when they were coming along in droves and we became more accustomed to the taking of German prisoners, so the interest in them declined. Both artilleries continued their heavy bombardments, that of the enemy caused much discomfiture to us by reason of it pouring in poison gas.
In the early morning of June 8th, we moved back for a brief respite to a place known as "The Catacombs. This was the name given to a huge dugout built in the side of a hill, and so large that it was capable of accommodating a whole brigade of men.
THE BLACK LINE
At midnight on June 8th, we took over that particular area known to us as "The Black Line." It was our job to strongly consolidate it. For five days we remained here digging and strengthening the defences to withstand any counter attacks. Our position was so advanced that Messines, once a prosperous town, now only just a heap of ruins was lying far away to the rear.
During this period we repulsed several counterattacks and were subjected to intense bombardments as we dug ourselves in. Our casualties were, in consequence, both numerous and severe. The stench from the tremendous number of Germans lying unburied in front of us was nauseating.
At midnight on the 11th of June we were relieved and proceeded to Hillside Camp, Neuve Eglise, where we billeted for two days in tents. We moved out on the 14th, to the village of Doullieu, quite close to the town of Bailleul.
Our strength at this time was 826 officers and men. Prior to the Messines Battle it was 1011. Our losses in this operation were therefore 185 officers and men.
After a short spell we returned to Hillside Camp, Neuve Eglise. On June 22nd it was found that our strength had increased to 34 officers and 818 other ranks, due to the new draft which had arrived.
WE RETURN TO THE BLACK LINE
On June 23rd, we returned to the Black Line and the Green Line. Here we remained for a period of twenty-one days, during which we consolidated and strengthened our new line of defence.
The communicating trenches were named: Unbearable, Gapaard, Hun's Walk, Owl, Fanny, and Wellington. These were all in bad condition. The Front Line was not joined up. Water was two feet deep in some parts of the trenches owing to continuous wet weather.
There was a great scarcity of engineering material, but in spite of all these drawbacks we made good progress by steadily gaining ground and pushing out strong posts in the direction of Warneton.
Our casualties were not severe, but never a day passed without toll being taken of our comrades by death or wounds.
The enemy presented evidence of nervousness and anxiety. He became very active with patrols and succeeded in establishing several strong posts in No-man's Land, which it was our object to eliminate, resulting in the action known as
THE WARNETON STUNT
We were relieved in the Messines sector on July 11th by the 36th Battalion and moved into tents and shelters by the side of a small streamlet called "Le Petit Douve.' Thence onwards until the end of July a continuous series of downpours saturated the ground, turning it into one huge bog. The little streamlet became a swiftly flowing river, ready to burst its banks at any moment, so that the conditions under which we existed were most discomforting.
Our strength was increased on July 14th by a draft of 108, and again on the 16th by a further draft of 50.
The Warneton Stunt, which we carried out in conjunction with the 43rd Battalion, although directed mainly towards wiping out the enemy's strong posts established in No-man's Land, which had caused us so much annoyance, was also devised to serve as a diversion for the offensive taking place on the North-west (Belgium) Front.
On the night of July 31st we returned to the trenches, performing part of the journey by motor lorries. The ground was so water logged that it took five hours to make the approach march.
The 43rd Battalion attacked on the right. The 42nd Battalion attacked on the left. The operation was highly successful. Strong post after strong post was attacked and captured along with many prisoners and counterattacks beaten off. It is estimated that 150 of the enemy were killed in our first attack.
Our casualties were fairly light but our captures were many. Our men were utterly exhausted by the strain of fifty hours continuous fighting and digging, in the most abominable Weather. The Corps Commander awarded eight of our men military medals for their conspicuous achievements on this occasion.
JESUS FARM
On August 4th, we moved back to Waterlands Camp near Steenwerke. This camp was more generally known as Jesus Farm, probably so named from the Crucifix which stood at the roadside. Shrines and crucifixes abounded in all villages in this vicinity, and were found at almost every crossroad. Here, at Jesus Farm, we found good wooden huts, which were greatly appreciated, after our long spell in the open.
Owing to many of our observation balloons flying in the sky above this location, our camp received a great deal of shrapnel intended for the Balloons. We were frequently spectators of thrilling escapes by the observers when the balloons they occupied were set on fire.
DESTRUCTION OF BALLOONS
The enemy utilised diverse means to destroy our balloons. Sometimes they were shelled intermittently with shrapnel, which exploded in the air, and sometimes he would send over small aeroplanes fitted with machineguns which fired incendiary bullets. These small planes usually hid behind a cloud. Seizing a favourable opportunity, they would dart quickly across to our lines, fire the balloon and flit rapidly back again.
So swiftly was the act performed that before one had time to realise what was happening, the balloon, sometimes two and three, in rapid succession, vanished before our eyes in clouds of smoke and flame.
Hostile aircraft hovered daily over our heads, and on several occasions we became excited witnesses of enemy planes being caught in the glare of our searchlights, whilst anti-aircraft guns, called "Archies," peppered away harmlessly at the sky. Being quite close to Steenwerke, we were frequent visitors to that town, which abounded in canteens, egg and chip joints, and estaminets. An object of particular interest to us was the Stone Grotto and Altar, cut out of the wall of solid rock in the main street.
REMILLY-WERQUIN.
Our tenancy of Jesus Farm expired on August 22nd, when we entrained at Bailleul for Wizernes, whence we marched to the village of Remilly-Werquin, where we billeted in barns. We had quite a pleasant stay there until September 26th. Apparently, we were the first Australians to be billeted in this district and the villagers did not understand our peculiarities. However, on better acquaintance, they warmed up to us and we became very good friends.
It was here that we came across some strange troops belonging to the army of one of our allies, the Portuguese. They were resting in villages adjacent to ours, but we could not form strong attachments with them, on the contrary, many a "scrap" took place between us. We always referred to them as "Pork and Beans," or "Pork and Cheese."
The towns of Lumbres and St. Omer being quite near, our visits there were frequent.
Endurance
Third Battle of Ypres-Broodseinde-Passchendaele
Poperinghe
Our rest came to end on September 25th, when we set out on our march to Blairingham. We proceeded next day to Eeke, and continued our march to Poperinghe, which place we eventually reached on September 27th. This last day was very trying, for the weather was hot and very dusty. It was a bad day for marching, so that we were very glad when we at last made our camp, near the Railway Depot, one-mile east of the town. Unfortunately, our rest was broken through the enemy bombing us, which resulted in casualties to men and horses.
Next day, the 28th, we were again bombed, and again, on the 29th, hostile aircraft dropped bombs throughout the night, which inflicted heavy casualties, especially on the 11th Brigade Machine Gun Company, among whom were many former 42nd Battalion men.
Our strength at the end of September was 43 officers, 978 other ranks. We were bombed again on October 1st, causing us further casualties. On October 2nd we entrained at Poperinghe for Ypres. Reaching there, we bivouacked at a location near a cemetery a little after midday.
BROODSEINDE
At 10 p.m. on the night of October 3rd the approach march began. We found marching a very difficult performance owing to the several sharp showers which had rendered the ground sodden and sticky and made visibility very poor. Fortunately the route was marked by tapes, white posts, and red lights, and these were more or less discernible in the dark.
The assembly point (that is, the place where those about to engage in the offensive had to congregate), was near Zonnebeke Railway Station. The time-for the hopover was drawing near. At 5.15 a.m. the first definite information of the nearness of zero hour was given by our artillery putting down a heavy barrage, which moved forward about 300 yards.
Naturally, the enemy retaliated with heavy artillery fire, which caused many losses among the men who were in the rear sections. These sections of the rear were hastily brought forward from the danger zone and moved up Hill 40.
This meant that the entire Brigade was in massed formation, all troops having been crowded into a depth of at the most 100 yards. Emergency knows no law, and though at that time anything in the nature of a mass was almost suicidal, it had to be done. During the assembly one or two bridges over the Zonnebeke were smashed. All troops had to cross over one bridge, and this was responsible for some little delay and a few casualties.
An examination of the ground between Zonnebeke and the Front Line proved how difficult was the assembly of the 11th Brigade, and for the satisfactory manner in which it took place, credit was given to the 11th Field Company Engineers for the laying of the tapes and to the Pioneers for the marking of tracks.
At last the great moment came. Punctually at 6 a.m. our artillery came down on the enemy lines with ferocity and accuracy. Our barrage fell like a wall of flame. Simultaneously, the whole Brigade rose as one man and went forward to the attack.
Enemy troops in the front line offered stout resistance for several minutes, but our advancing troops were not to be denied. A great number of enemy dead were found shortly after, making it evident this line had been very heavily held. The 43rd Battalion reached its objective without difficulty. The 42nd advanced behind the 43rd Two officers were killed and one officer wounded before Hill 40 was crossed.
The first objective was reached at 6.20 a.m. and consolidation was commenced immediately.
At forty-one minutes after zero hour, the 42nd Battalion leap-frogged through the 43rd, and continued the attack.
Owing to the swampy ground and heavy travelling, the company of the Battalion operating on our left failed to keep up with the barrage, and this drew our left company about 500 yards over to the left. This was remedied by the Commander of our A Company, which was in reserve, who acted promptly and threw his men into the gap. Then all went well and our left company resumed its position.
The enemy kept firing Verey light signals as our troops advanced, and his artillery kept shortening the range. Thames Wood was shelled heavily, and that was where, at this stage, most of our casualties were sustained.
During the advance from first to second objective (the red line), large numbers of enemy troops were observed running towards our advancing troops. As their positions were not known, they were fired on causing casualties, but when it was found that they wished to surrender, they were allowed to drift through our troops. Escorts were provided at the rate of one man to twenty prisoners.
Our objective was reached on time and consolidation at once started. The barrage halted 200 yards beyond the Red Line for forty-seven minutes. Large numbers of prisoners were coming in, altogether one hundred of them were taken by the 42nd alone, in this area.
A dugout used by the enemy as an aid post was captured by us together with the whole medical staff. This dugout also contained a machine-gun. Nine enemy machine-guns were captured by us, four of which were entirely new, having never been used.
The ground was very wet and shell-torn, which rendered the work of consolidation very arduous, but in two hours our men were well under cover.
The work of evacuating the wounded was rendered extremely difficult due to the long and heavy carry and intense enemy barrages.
During the afternoon of October 4th the enemy made repeated counter attacks on our front which was then held by the 41st Battalion. These were all repulsed. He made further counter-attacks the following day and was again beaten off.
On the morning of October 6th, we were relieved, after having been in the line continuously for sixty hours. Our casualties were: Officers, 4 killed, 7 wounded; other ranks, 220 killed and wounded.
On Sunday, October 7th, we rested at St. Lawrence Camp, Brandhoek. The roads and ground were in a deplorable condition. Our strength was 32 officers, 773 other ranks.
PASSCHENDAELE
On October 8th, we started preparations for another move to the Ypres front, to take over from the 66th (British) Division. On October 9th a party of our men consisting of 16 officers and 400 other ranks moved via Ypres and encamped in tents on the eastern slopes of the Friezenberg Ridge. This party was called "A" Echelon.
Another section called "B" Echelon, consisting of 12 officers and 240 other ranks (transport and Quartermaster's personnel), proceeded from Brandhoek and camped in tents east of Ypres, whilst two officers and 80 other ranks were despatched for duty with the 11th Brigade Engineers.
The weather was bad and the ground boggy, which rendered transport very difficult. Heavy rain fell at intervals throughout the day and night.
The 66th (British) Division attacked on October 11th, but the result was only a partial success, owing to the abnormal weather, the exhausted condition of the men, and the awful state of the ground. On the night of 10/11th the 11th Brigade relieved British troops and the 42nd and 44th Battalions held the front line. The 41st and 43rd Battalions were in reserve, 400 yards in rear. Our Battalion took over from an exhausted British regiment that had suffered severely. They occupied the left front from Ravenbeke to Augustus Wood.
The men whom we relieved had suffered so badly that we found many of them in a state of complete exhaustion, which rendered them targets for enemy snipers. In one small section alone fifty-seven of them had been sniped in one day. Their dead and dying lay around in heaps, whilst their numerous wounded were groaning and unattended. Those who formed the survivors had very little food.
The relief had to be carried out in daylight and the enemy observed the movement. His artillery immediately put down a barrage, which inflicted many casualties upon us and disorganised the relief. Prior to our taking over the line, no attempt at consolidation had been attempted, so we had to occupy shell holes and carry out the work of consolidation as well as circumstances would permit. The weather was atrocious. The ground was so saturated that every trench as it was dug immediately filled with water, and had to be abandoned for a fresh position.
During the first twelve hours of our occupation of this position enemy snipers were very active. Mention is made in Brigade records of the wonderful activity of our patrols, one party on the left, penetrating as far as 1000 yards towards Passchendaele without getting in touch with the enemy. The 9th and 10th Brigades attacked on the morning of October 13th.The 11th Brigade became Divisional Reserve. The 42nd Battalion occupied shell holes.
At this stage no less than thirty-three per cent of our men had to be evacuated. As the men of the "A" Echelon were gradually sent back to the transport lines their places were taken by men of the "B" Echelon. These were cooks, brakesmen, batmen, bandsmen, and other Quartermaster's details. Foot trouble was the main cause of the disablement of our men, combined with the effects of mustard gas.
The damage by this kind of gas was caused through men sitting or lying on ground upon which gas shells had burst. The parts of the body which came in contact with the ground became blistered and very painful.
The attack of the 9th and 10th Brigades resulted in the 9th reaching its objective, whilst the 10th was held up west of Passchendaele.
On the night of October 13th, the 9th and 10th Brigade troops were withdrawn and the 11th Brigade once more held the line. Most of our men were by this time completely done up. Many dropped down by the wayside as they doggedly toiled along to their assigned positions. When they got there, the line was found to be, instead of advanced, some thirty yards behind where we had originally left it. The ground was all shell stricken and sodden.
Some of the wounded Tommies were there yet. They were in an appalling state. Our fellows gave them all their food and water, but were obliged to get on with the job that was before them. Our casualties were again numerous, so we availed ourselves of the shelter of shell holes and abandoned "pill-boxes," which gave some protection from the incessant shelling.
The shell holes were half full of water and the "pillboxes" contained a full complement of dead and dying of both sides.
"Pill-box" was the name given to that particular form of concrete dugout which the enemy constructed in the form of an enlarged box, of the type in which Beechams Pills are usually contained.
In one of the "pill-boxes" no less than twenty-four wounded men were assembled, all of whom were eventually evacuated. Others, however, were not so fortunate, for regrettable as it may be, it has to be admitted that many of our own, as well as the enemy's wounded, found graves in that awful sea of mud.
The stench from the dead was fearful. They were lying in all directions in various stages of decomposition.
The 42nd Battalion was left support behind the 41st Battalion, occupying positions in the vicinity of Abraham's Heights. Here the troops had to hold on for forty-eight hours. No offensive action could be taken on account of the exhausted condition of the men and the state of the weather.
On the night of October 16th, we were relieved and remained in reserve until the night of October 21st when Canadians took over from us and we moved to a camp west of Ypres.
OUR DEPLETED RANKS
The total of the casualties that occurred during the period October 4th to October 21st, was 438. We had five officers killed and ten wounded. Other ranks suffered to the extent of 62 killed and 361 wounded, sick and missing. Our fighting strength was reduced to but 11 officers and 180 other ranks.
During this period both men and animals suffered severely, and the resources of the Battalion were strained to the utmost. The difficulties of transport were enormous. All material and rations had to be carried by pack mules along bog-like tracks and over shell torn ground whilst added to these tremendous handicaps was the ceaseless attention of the enemy, who shelled our approaches continuously. Yet despite all these obstacles rations, water, dry socks and ammunition were taken up daily, and after the first two days, hot tea and soup were conveyed to us in improvised containers, such as kerosene tins which were wrapped in blankets.
The work of the Battalion's transport was outstanding throughout these operations. The men showed the utmost grit and kept the Battalion going under the worst conditions imaginable.
Never since its formation had the men of the Battalion faced such abnormal weather, never had men been called upon to face greater hardships, or to display greater fortitude, and endurance, and it may safely be recorded that never have troops, officers and men alike responded more splendidly to such inexorable demands.
REORGANISATION
Quite naturally, it was impossible for any unit to continue its work with such depleted strength, and it was welcome news to the tired and exhausted remnant of our indomitable Battalion when the word was given round: "We're going back to Remilly-Werquin to re-organise.
Accordingly, "all that was left of us" moved back on October 22nd. Some travelled by motor buses and the rest by railway train from Ypres to Wizernes, marching thence to Remilly-Werquin where the same billets were occupied as before.
The weather this time was not so pleasant. We experienced many miserable days, accompanied by frost and much rain. A good deal of sickness broke out in the way of colds, influenza, and chest troubles. And this was scarcely to be wondered at, seeing the ordeal the men had recently undergone.
Continuous training, with frequent route marches gradually brought fitness to the ranks and continued to do so until November 12th, when we set out again for the forward area. Fine weather prevailed and the troops marched 12.5 miles the first day, performing the job in good style.
We billeted in farmhouses at Bolseghem. Next day we did an 18-mile march to Le Becque, near Steenwerke, during which much endurance was exhibited. The Battalion came right through without a man falling out. On November 15th, we marched another seven miles, which brought us to
KORTEPYI
This name was derived from the estaminet in the locality called in French Corte-Pipe, in English, short pipe, and in Flemish it is Korte-Pyp.
Here we billeted in wooden huts and did some intense training daily. Every morning three and a-half hours were devoted to routine military drill and exercise, whilst every afternoon two hours were given to recreational training. Football was the main sport. Inter-platoon and inter-company matches were organised.
It was at this time that the 42nd football war cry was first heard. Although consisting of nothing more formidable than harmless words such as potato, tomato, banana, plum, tobacco, and a boast intimating that the 42nd Battalion was always on top, it sounded very menacing and defiant when yelled by our side to the rival team. Matches between units of the 11th Brigade and the Artillery took place every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon. These sports gatherings were sometimes disorganised by enemy airmen who came over in planes called "Gothas." The unmistakable drone of the Gothas which announced their arrival was the signal for both teams, as well as spectators, to hastily scatter.
The 11th Brigade was now in reserve. The strength of the Battalion was, on December 1st, 40 officers and 742 other ranks. The health of the Battalion steadily improved. The weather though intensely cold was nice and dry.
Adjacent to the camp was a large marquee, erected by the Y.M.C.A., and a very excellent canteen was also established.
ON THE MOVE AGAIN
We remained at Kortepyp until the middle of the month, when we set out for Waterlands Camp, billeting at Locre en route. On the 19th December we set out for the "old habitation" which we called Jesus Farm, and found it to be what we termed "a very cold joint,' owing to the scarcity of fuel which prevailed at that time Everything of a burnable nature was utilised by us in order to keep our fires and braziers going.
BOIS GRENIER
On the night of December 20th, we took over the Bois Grenier sector. Our Battalion occupied a full brigade front. The front line was held lightly by a system of infantry posts closely supported by Lewis gun posts which covered the gaps. The trenches were in good condition and damaged very little by shellfire. We found it a very quiet sector with good shelters and splendid facilities for getting hot food to the front line.
During our six days in this sector the temperature was below zero. We were fortunate in having no cases of trench feet despite the fact that the ground was white with snow and frost.
CHRISTMAS 1917
We spent the festive season in the trenches, under much the same conditions as last year, only on this occasion we were experienced and seasoned soldiers.
On Christmas Eve we heard the Fritzes singing away, but though the enemy appeared to have developed the "Goodwill to all Men" spirit, we made no attempt to reciprocate or fraternise.
To spite us for this, he next day savagely and severely shelled Bois Grenier and the adjacent town of Erquinhem, causing considerable damage, happily only to the roads.
On December 27th, we handed over to the 43rd Battalion and returned to Jesus Farm. The weather was severely cold. Frost rendered the roads so slippery that marching was a difficult operation.
CHRISTMAS DINNER
Owing to our occupancy of the front line on Christmas Day, it was not possible for us to hold our Christmas dinner on December 25th. We were, however, not to be denied an event like that for the sake of a mere date. We held our Christmas dinner on December 30th, and a real good dinner it was, while it lasted, which was not very long. That very same night we were employed on working parties in the Bois Grenier and Armentieres sectors. Six of our men received their medals on this day at the hands of our Corps Commander, General Sir William Birdwood.
On the last day of 1917 we marched away from Jesus Farm. The roads were like glass and the weather piercingly cold.
When at last we reached our destination at Locre, much difficulty was experienced in obtaining fuel for even cooking purposes, owing to the short issue.
NEW YEAR'S DAY 1918
New Year's Day found us at Birr Barracks, adjacent to Locre, a clean little village on the Belgian frontier. Here we received further reinforcements which brought up our strength to 26 officers and 1063 other ranks.
Drill competitions showed a marked improvement in training. January 27th found us on the move from Locre to Kortepyp, whence we next day shifted to Ingersoll Camp, Nieppe.
INGERSOLL CAMP
This was an encampment of wooden huts near to the town of Nieppe on the road to Romarin. Whilst here we were engaged on working parties, going out both day and night to the Le Bizet and Ploegsteert sectors.
To get to the trenches we used a light railway which the enemy had ranged to a nicety. Many a lucky escape was experienced on the journeys to and from. On more than one occasion we had to hurriedly leave our train and continue the journey as pedestrians instead of passengers.
Whilst at Ingersoll Camp we heard persistent rumours that a German offensive was expected with the arrival of spring, and that it was thought the attempt to break through would be on the Arminentieres Messines Front. Our labours to fortify and strengthen our defences became ceaseless and strenuous.
CONCERT PARTIES
Two Australian military concert parties entertained us in Nieppe. One was supplied by the 44th Battalion, and the other, a much more pretentious organisation, was provided by Divisional Headquarters. This latter party was recruited from every unit of the Third Division, and gave us some first-class shows. The singing, acting, choral work, and comedy, was of a high order, whilst an orchestra of twenty talented musicians provided us with many a musical treat. The "girl" of the company, who of course was an Australian soldier, was one of the leading features.
These military concert parties were greatly appreciated by us for they did much to keep our spirits high and helped us to forget, for the time being, the hardship, death and destruction surrounding us.
FEBRUARY 1918
We went back to the trenches on February 5th, this time at Pont Rouge, where we remained for a period of eight days. When we came out of the line, we played several football matches, having at one time for our opponents the Royal West Kent Regiment. We again spent much of our time making defence works, and many new dugouts of reinforced concrete were constructed within old buildings.
Enemy aircraft were very active, but our airmen having dominance kept hostile planes well away from our lines.
On February 21st, some of our planes went for an excursion over the German lines, leaving souvenirs of their visit in the form of bombs. The enemy provided a magnificent display of fireworks in order to direct his anti-aircraft guns.
On this date we returned to the trenches at Pont Rouge, and remained there until March 2nd. Our term in the line on this occasion was particularly quiet, our main activities being confined to intensive patrolling.
BACK TO THE REST AREA
And now began preparations for the long-promised, well-merited, and much needed "rest."
On March 4th the Battalion set out from Ingersoll Camp for Kortepyp. The following day, the transport started on its journey to the "rest area," and on March 6th, the 42nd Battalion marched out of Kortepyp Camp at 11.30 in the morning, reaching Steenwerke at 1 o'clock. In less than three hours we had entrained and were well on the way to Lottinghem, which village was reached at 11.30 that night.
The Y.M.C.A. was already established there and supplied us with hot coffee. We partook of a hurried meal, then off we marched in the highest spirits on the seven mile journey that was to bring us to our respective billets, namely, Harlettes for A and C Companies and Bulescamps for B Company. D Company and Headquarters were billeted at Fromenthal. It was not until 2.30 in the morning that we settled down to sleep. The transport arrived a few hours later.
When we woke up we realised that we were far from the roar of the guns. Free from the anxiety of raids with strict military discipline somewhat relaxed. We were filled with joyful anticipation of four weeks' serenity and relaxation.
But alas! Our month's holiday consisted of but thirteen days. The usual training was continued daily right up to March 20th, when our "visit to the country" came to abrupt termination.
THE STORM BREAKS
On March 21st the Battalion received warning to be prepared to move off at six hours' notice.
As some sort of solace to our feelings of disappointment we were paid that afternoon. Next day, the expected happened. Orders arrived at 4 a.m. for the Battalion to move immediately to Steenvorde. The transport got on its way at 10 a.m., and was followed half an hour later by Headquarters and D Company from Fromenthal. The other three companies were picked up at Bulescamps. Lottinghem was reached at 1 o'clock p.m. Two hours after, we were entrained and on our way to Ecke. We arrived there at 11 o'clock that night, detrained and marched to Steenvorde, and by midnight were all billeted.
The next day, March 23rd, all surplus equipment and extra blankets were discarded and dumped. The 42nd Battalion, all ready and prepared, awaited the issue of further commands.
So this was the "end of a perfect holiday." As events turned out there was to be no more rest for the 42nd nor any other Australian unit until the cessation of hostilities.
Determination
Off to the Somme - Stemming the Enemy Onrush-Battle of Hamel
The German Onslaught
On March 21st, the Germans attacked the front of the Fifth British Army in the Somme region. The tremendous number of enemy troops released from the Eastern Front by the collapse of the Russian forces, enabled him to launch an attack so fierce and powerful as to crumple up the forces opposing him on this part of the Somme Front selected by him for his attack.
It was also apparent that an attack on the Flanders Front was contemplated by our foes.
The Third Division was therefore moved in readiness to repel any attack on the Flanders Front, but suddenly this plan was altered. The movement of our Battalion was arrested on March 24th. The position on the Somme had become desperate. We received orders to immediately proceed southwards.
Accordingly at 8 o'clock on the morning of March 24th, we retraced our footsteps, arriving at Ecke at 10am. Here we found motor buses in readiness to transport us. We got away at 11.30 a.m. and travelled via Capelle, Cassell to Ebblinghem, where we alighted and marched to Lynde. Here our transport joined us. We were all billeted by 4 in the afternoon.
ARQUES
The next day, March 25th, we proceeded to Arques, a distance of seven miles. It was a strenuous march through the rain and considered a remarkably good performance. Arriving in the early hours of the morning, a scene of great animation and activity presented itself to our eyes. The town teemed with troops belonging to every unit of the 11th Brigade. Trains were running hours behind schedule. Bicycles and gear were to be seen hanging between trucks and in a few instances, on top of them. We ate our meals in the streets and slept on the roadside, feeling thankful for the slightest shelter that was available.
OFF TO THE SOMME
At length, at 8 o'clock on March 26th, we entrained, leaving one hour later for Doullens, which town was reached at 3 in the afternoon. Anxiously awaiting the arrival of troops were Marshal Foch and Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig, who had been attending that historic and momentous conference at which Marshal Foch was appointed to the supreme command of the Allied Armies.
After detraining, little time was lost. We marched off gaily singing "It's a Long Way to Tipperary," amidst wild cheers of congested throngs of French refugees. Pressing on, we reached a place called Thievres at midnight. Here we had a brief spell and partook of a drink of hot tea. We were unable to occupy the billets that had been allotted to us for the simple reason that the territory was apparently in the hands of the enemy.
THE RETREAT OF THE BRITISH FIFTH ARMY
The scene that unfolded itself was one of the utmost confusion. We saw retreating troops of the Fifth Army intermingled with hundreds of French civilian refugees, thronging the highway and seriously impeding our forward movement. To make matters worse, a rumour got into circulation that German armoured cats were approaching, and that they were only three miles away. Those supposed armoured cars turned out to be merely a collection of agricultural machines, which a noisy tractor was doing its best to save.
A more pitiable sight could not be imagined than the plight of those unfortunate refugees who had evacuated their beautiful homes and flourishing farms, or had abandoned their businesses and property to the tender mercy of whomsoever chanced to come along.
There were old men, women and children, wheeling barrows on which had been hastily thrown the only possessions they were able to save. There were aged couples, in carts piled with bedding and household chattels, behind which was tethered a cow or perhaps two or more. Others just carried a small bundle containing but a few clothes and a little food.
Hopelessly mixed up with all this movement towards the rear, was a steady stream of guns of all types and calibre's, farm wagons, threshing machines, lorries, and service wagons.
The French refugees, whose eyes during the past few days had become used to gazing with hopeless despair upon retreating troops, were spellbound at the contrasting sight of Australian troops in full fighting kit, swinging along, joking, smoking and laughing, with bands playing, marching in perfect order, forward and onward to meet the advancing enemy.
Inspired with new hope these poor souls stopped their retreat as they frantically cheered us and waved us on with cries of "Vive les Australiens!'
We remained but one hour in Thievres, and then marched on for another mile and a-half when we were met by omnibuses which took us on to Franvilliers, situated on the main road to Amiens, arriving at 5 a.m. on March 27th. Here we alighted and marched on to Heilly, and were met by the Brigadier. Orders were immediately received to take up a defensive line between Mericourt and Sailly le See with the River Somme on our right flank.
THE DIVISIONAL COMMANDER'S COMMENTS
Our Divisional Commander, General Sir John Monash, was at Franvilliers in a state of intense suspense and expectancy. "My anxiety was relieved," Sir John Monash has written, "when a convoy of thirty buses arrived crowded with the staunch, reliable troops of the 11th Infantry Brigade.The spectacle of that Infantry," he continues, "will be ever memorable to me as one of the most inspiring sights of the whole war". Here was the Third Division, the 'New Chum' Division, which in spite of its great successes in Belgium and Flanders had never been able to boast like its sister Divisions that it had been 'down on the Somme' come into its own at last, and called upon to prove its mettle.
No one who saw those Battalions, in spite of the fatigue of two sleepless nights, marching on that clear crisp morning, with head erect and the swing and precision of a Royal Review Parade, could doubt that not a man of them would flinch from any assault that was likely to fall on them. Nor was there a man who did not fully grasp that upon him and his companions was about to fall the whole responsibility of frustrating the German attack to capture Amiens and separate the Allied Armies.
SAILLY LE SEC
At Heilly we dumped our packs and assumed "fighting order!' The companies marched out in platoons at intervals and advanced to their respective positions. Although we had not known a hot meal for forty-eight hours and did not know when we were likely to get one, our spirits were of the best. Some of the men, being good scouts, looked around and discovered good food awaiting them. The inhabitants of the village having fled hurriedly, the meals they had spread and intended to eat, had been left upon the tables undisturbed, and so it happened, many an aching void that had taken possession of a 42nd stomach was relieved by this timely, welcome, and unexpected turn of Providence.
The River Ancre was crossed, and at about noon the village of Sailly le See was reached. Here we dug ourselves in. What little defence existed at the time of our arrival was furnished by remnants of the 9th Highland Regiment and cavalry outposts of the Queen's Bays.
The front held by the 42nd Battalion was roughly 2,000 yards. The cavalry in action could be discerned on the ridge between the rivers Ancre and Somme. They worked wonders in keeping the enemy at bay and by gaining information by patrolling.
An old-time system, made by the French at the beginning of the War, was converted into trenches, which were fairly good although dugouts were somewhat crude. The materials for making them we obtained from houses in the deserted village. A sheet of iron from one, a door from another. From others floorboards, straw, cushions, and even bedding. These all went to make our trench residences more homelike.
Our fighting in Northern France and Flanders had been associated mainly with mud and at the best, uninteresting tunnels, saps and labyrinths of trenches. But here was a contrast. We could not help comparing, unconsciously perhaps, our previous experiences with this countryside of such marvellous beauty. The scenes over which our operations were now taking place consisted of green fields, wheat crops, and prolific cultivation. Sheep and cattle, abandoned by their owners in their hurried exodus, browsed unconcernedly before our trenches.
Here we found no shell-holes, nor craters to disturb and despoil the contour of the landscape. Free from shrieking shells and the ceaseless rattle of machine-guns, the place possessed an aspect of serenity and peace rather than that of the crash and din of battle.
The village of Sailly le See on being explored was found to contain some very fine houses, well kept, and excellently furnished. In most of them paintings, statuary, and family treasures abounded. The Mairie, or residence of the Mayor, stood out conspicuously. In this was installed, a piano of splendid appearance.
But it was in the cellars that our men discovered treasures more to their taste. Never had they seen such an abundance of wine. More plentiful than water. In fact there was no water in the water bottles whilst supplies of wine hung out, and every available vessel capable of holding liquid was utilised for carrying away the luscious beverage.
With poultry, eggs, sheep, pigs, and wine all to be had for the taking, the men of the 42nd had the time of their lives-but joy, at any time, is but fleeting-and particularly was it so in this instance. Before we had time to realise it, we were back at our job of fighting, and Sailly le See gradually became reduced to ruins.
SHRAPNEL GULLY
Next day, March 28th, we consolidated our position, and whilst doing so, carried out diligent and intensive patrolling.
One of our patrols encountered a German patrol of five, of whom they killed four and wounded one, who was brought in. This was the first of the numerous prisoners captured by us in the newly established line. Two more prisoners were brought in later on in the evening. We sniped a considerable number of the enemy before the Front Line occupied by B Company. During the night the enemy was quiet, but we received information in a message dropped by one of our aeroplanes that the enemy was massing for an attack.
With the exception of four eighteen-pounder guns of the Royal Horse Artillery, which had to cover the front of the entire Brigade, our operations up to this time had been unsupported by artillery. It was, therefore, a great relief to us to learn that our Third Divisional Artillery was gradually coming up and getting into action immediately upon arrival.
Our field cookers resumed business operations on March 29th. We were thus enabled to partake of hot meals once again.
The enemy's artillery resources were evidently accumulating, for on March 30th he became very active. Starting with a bombardment of Hamel on our right flank, at 10.30 a.m., using gas shells and high explosive, he next opened up on Bouzancourt, raining shells of all calibre's upon that village.
THE GERMANS ATTACK OUR NEW LINE
At noon, our Front Line was subjected to severe shelling. It was quite obvious that a massed attack was imminent. After a few minutes hesitation the enemy began to advance.
Waves of enemy troops came steadily forward from Sailly Laurette on the south to the Corbie-Bray Road on the north, but all his assaults were frustrated. By midday the first phase of the attack, which was launched against our entire Front Line, had been held up by our machine-gun, Lewis-gun and rifle fire, and very shortly our defence was strengthened by the arrival of the Third Divisional Artillery, which immediately upon receiving word of the German attack, galloped gallantly into action, unlimbered the guns and poured devastating volleys into the advancing masses of troops.
The enemy gained about 400 yards of territory, which was not to his advantage for it brought his troops within range of our Infantry weapons. At 2.15 p.m. another general advance on the whole Front was attempted. Reinforcements were hurried by the enemy across the ridges. He attempted to advance his entire line, but so intense was the concentration of fire brought to bear upon the assaulting troops that the attack was completely repulsed.
In spite of heavy shelling and the immense number of troops hurled against us, the morale of the 42nd was never at a higher pitch. Men were actually laying wagers in francs as to which of them would be the first to hit a specified German.
Soon after 3 o'clock the enemy evidently realised the hopelessness of making any further progress. He began to dig-in for cover, in isolated positions, but when sunset arrived his intention to evacuate became obvious. Small parties of troops were seen dribbling away to the rear. His concentration of troops was gradually withdrawn. Due to the dull visibility which existed when the sun went down it was not possible to observe all the enemy's movements, but the continual progress of his troops from front to rear appeared to signify that he had no intention of holding the position in force. This conclusion on our part was verified during the night, when our patrols discovered that, with the exception of south of Sailly Laurette, the enemy had established a new Line.
It is estimated that at least a full Brigade of enemy troops attacked on the front occupied by the 42nd Battalion, and no less than 500 casualties were inflicted on the attackers. His wounded were heard moaning throughout the night, and were to be seen in considerable numbers when daylight broke.
Thus were broken up two very definite attacks on a large scale. Every attempt of smaller units to rush forward was utterly frustrated.
Throughout the attack our men were well supplied with ammunition. As a result of their victory, they appreciated more than ever the value of the rifle and the conservation of ammunition.
ENEMY MACHINE GUNNERS
With his most advanced troops, the enemy invariably had light machine-guns. These were worked in groups of four. The crews could be seen distinctly in the advance also when setting up a position. In consequence, they were subjected to a great deal of fire, yet they worked fearlessly in a most aggressive manner. They were responsible for at least 50 per cent of our casualties. Our stretcher-bearers, runners, signallers, carrying parties, and so forth, suffered severely from this cause. During the enemy's withdrawal, these machine-gunners were, if anything, more savage than during the attack. They were the last troops to be withdrawn, with the exception of the snipers.
OUR WORK APPRECIATED BY THE GENERAL STAFF
Our runners, signallers, and liaison patrols kept the Battalion well supplied with all necessary and vital information.
All ranks received high commendation for the splendid work performed on this occasion, special mention was made of the reconnaissance work of the Adjutant, and of the capable observation maintained by the Intelligence Officer during the battle.
Ten other ranks received special mention and were recommended for various distinctions and awards, which were in due course conferred. There was, however, one instance of an N.C.O., who, at a time when so large a number of heroic acts and brave deeds were being performed, was particularly singled out and recommended for the Distinguished Conduct Medal. His bravery was conspicuous, and yet he did not receive the coveted award for he did not survive the serious wounds he received, and the distinction, not being posthumous, could not be awarded. The facts relative to the recommendation may well be recorded here, in order to exemplify that bravery, heroism, comradeship, and devotion to duty from which sprang "The Spirit of the Forty-second."
"On the evening of March 28, this sergeant was sent out with two sections to establish two observation posts in the face of the enemy.
When leaving our Line, the party was observed by the enemy and heavily shelled. The sergeant was stunned by a shell which exploded within a few feet of him. On regaining consciousness, he led the party out and successfully established his posts, and in course of so doing came under heavy fire from two machine-guns.
"Later in the evening, the post was rushed by an enemy party of seven. Allowing them to approach to within bombing distance, he ordered his men to 'fire,' with the result that all of the enemy were either killed or taken prisoner.
'Notwithstanding the proximity of the enemy, the posts were held until the stipulated time had elapsed, the men were then cleverly withdrawn without a casualty.
"It was imperative that the posts should be held in order to cover the approach of a large advance. The coolness, bravery, and skilful leadership displayed brought the enterprise to a successful issue
"On the following day, this same NCO- seeing two enemy scouts approaching our Line, went out and waylaid them. He shot one and took the other prisoner.
"Throughout his long service with the Battalion he proved himself a skilful, fearless leader who had shown an excellent example to his men
WE CARRY ON
We now set to work to strengthen our lines of defence. Dugouts were improved and we made it reasonably safe for our travelling cookers and ration limbers to draw right up as far as Battalion Headquarters.
Our patrols continued to be very active and established themselves as "masters of No Man's Land.
A lull in the fighting operations started on March 31st. We then found the Australian Fifth Division to be on our right flank, alongside the River Somme. The Fifth Division had taken over part of the line which had been held by our A Company.
HEILLY
On April 1st, we went out of the line for a little while, our relief was completed by midnight, without any Interference on the part of the enemy. We bivouacked in the valley north of the village of Vaux, having the 43rd Battalion on our left flank, and the 52nd Battalion on our right, over the Somme River.
Our headquarters were at Heilly, in an old brickfield. Nearby was a tall chimney-stack that was used by the enemy as a registering mark for his gunners. The brickfield in consequence became a very unhealthy spot. There was, however, a wood close handy, where a deep gravel pit existed. This place was tunnelled by us, and there our headquarters were safely established.
Our working parties never ceased operating. They were occupied in a variety of ways, among which was the building of emplacements for anti-aircraft guns.
The enemy, on April 4th advanced on the British line in the vicinity of Hamel, then held by British Regiments, which were driven out of their trenches at 11 o'clock in the morning.
Our artillery was so placed, however, that heavy enfilade fire could be poured on the advancing enemy, and great execution was done to his troops.
Our observation from the high ground enabled us to view the entire enemy operation. It was some time before we could grasp and realise the fact that British troops were actually withdrawing from before Hamel Village and Bouzancourt, immediately on our right flank. By this, the enemy was allowed to make a gain of 3000 yards, which brought him to the eastern outskirts of Villers-Bretonneux, a gain which three months later cost the Australian Forces a supreme effort in order to compel him to surrender it.
The possibility of such a withdrawal from these positions had not been overlooked by our generals. A Battalion of the 15th Australian Infantry Brigade was protecting the canal and River Somme and bridges from Bouzancourt to Corbie. A strong protective flank was thus provided for our positions north of the river.
Our A Company, which was attached to the 44th Battalion, sustained some casualties along the Somme Canal and between Sailly le See and Vaux.
The next day, April 5th it rained heavily. A fierce attack was launched on the Australian Fourth Divisional troops opposite Dernancourt, where they occupied the high ground. After severe fighting, during which heavy losses were inflicted upon the enemy, he was completely repulsed.
It was well for us that he did not succeed for had he captured those heights, the whole Third Division must have inevitably been withdrawn. Our working parties were engaged digging reserve line trenches m the vicinity of the Corbie-Bray Road, during which they were subjected to shelling by high explosive mixed with gas due to which several casualties were sustained
We had the satisfaction of seeing an enemy plane brought down near to our bivouac. Both pilot and observer were killed.
ACTIVITY IN THE AIR
Aerial combats now became a frequent source of' excitement to us. Up to this time the enemy had adopted a sort of passive defence, but now he suddenly completely reversed his attitude. On April 6th he made a determined effort to obtain mastery of the air. He had very dubious success, for when he sent several tri-planes they were immediately attacked by our own planes. There was great excitement as three planes were seen to fall in flames. Two others were shot down while many others were compelled to make forced landings. The losses, unfortunately, were not confined to the enemy for a few of those disabled planes happened to belong to US.
TRENCH FEET
On April 7th, we took over from the 44th Battalion and were supported on the left by the 43rd whilst on our right, over the Somme River was the 49th Battalion of the Fourth Australian Division. The 44th Battalion left two platoons behind which were attached to us for the time being.
Although the weather was cold and wet and we were without cover of any description overhead- it was really wonderful how cheerful we were under such adverse conditions.
Foot trouble, or trench feet as it was generally termed, was somewhat prevalent at this time and strict orders were issued by Divisional Headquarters to the effect that our men must have their feet rubbed and every precaution taken to prevent the spreading of the complaint. We continued to hold the line until April 13th when we retired to the valley north of Vaux for a brief respite. During our occupancy of the line we had two trench mortars installed on our front and a new dugout was started in Shrapnel Alley for future Battalion Headquarters.
NEWS OF THE FALL OF ARMENTIERES
Whilst we were holding up the German advance in the Somme area, the enemy's anticipated attack on the Flanders Front eventuated. The lull in operations which had occurred in our region enabled him to transfer his attentions to the northern sector, where he carried out his efforts with considerable success.
Armentieres had fallen into his hands and he was rapidly advancing on Bailluel.
Our First Australian Division, which had reached the Somme only a few days earlier, was hurriedly despatched to the north again in an endeavour to stem the advance of the enemy towards the Channel Ports. Our gallant comrades carried out their mission with the utmost success, and thus again were German aspirations frustrated by Australian troops.
Nevertheless, it caused us many pangs of keen regret when we learnt of the large amount of territory the enemy had re-taken. We should not have been human had we been otherwise than enraged when we contemplated how vain had been rendered all the vast amount of energy we had expended on defences. We thought of the miles of barbed-wire entanglements we had laid; the concrete dugouts we had built, the gun positions we had erected. All these works we had performed to defend the ground desperately won at the expense of lives of some of our best friends and comrades.
COMPANY COMMANDER KILLED
Whilst out of the line a serious misfortune happened to the Battalion. The enemy, indulging in one of his regular "area shoots" was on April 16th, searching for our artillery positions in the vicinity of our Battalion. Stray shells caused us some casualties, and resulted in the death of the highly-esteemed and very capable Commander of D Company, when on his way to Battalion Headquarters
TRENCH WARFARE AGAIN
We returned to the trenches at Sailly le Sec on April 19. Our activities now dwindled down to the old familiar "trench warfare." But living in this new system of trenches did not, however, seem so monotonous to us as did the trench life in Flanders and other places in Northern France where we had sojourned for just on eighteen months previously.
Still, back again came the same old routine of "working parties," bearing in its train the same old fatigues of carrying, wiring, digging and filling sandbags.
SMALL RAIDING PARTIES
We now began to make the enemy very "jumpy" by employing a system of continuous raiding. His nervousness was apparent from the extravagant use he made of his Verey lights.
Our raiding parties consisted of only 1 officer and 20 other ranks. These raids were supported by an artillery barrage which commenced as an "area shoot," and subsequently developed into a light "box-barrage," which covered the particular enemy post to be raided. Under cover of the noise and confusion the small raiding party rushed the post, took prisoner all who surrendered and killed those who resisted.
FURTHER AERIAL ACTIVITY
April 21st was a day of great aerial activity, and witnessed the ending of the career and exploits of the most intrepid of all the enemy's airmen, namely, Baron Von Richthofen. According to the 11th Brigade records, he was brought down and killed by fire from Lewis gunners of the Fourth Australian Division.
BONNAY
Some considerable time had now elapsed since we had enjoyed the luxury of regular baths. We greatly appreciated, therefore, the novelty of going to the newly established baths which were situated in the village of Bonnay. But no sooner had we started a revival of cleanly habits than the village became subjected to particularly heavy shelling. On April the 24th, high explosive shells mixed with gas were sent over by the enemy in such profusion and density as to force our B Echelon, which established at Bonnay, to hurriedly evacuate and take up a defensive position North of the River Ancre.A rain of shells fell on the entire Battalion area. Starting at 6 a.m. the bombardment inflicted casualties upon us to the extent of 12 killed and 35 wounded. This was the prelude to an attack in force by the enemy, which, however, did not fall on our part of the line.
VILLERS-BRETONNEUX
It was Villers-Bretonneux that the enemy attacked and gained possession of. At that time it was held by a weak and exhausted British Regiment. But the Germans were not permitted to remain long in their newly-acquired domain, for at 10 o'clock that same night, the 13th and 14th Australian Brigades counter-attacked and succeeded in recapturing all the ground which had been lost earlier in the day. When dawn broke next day, which happened to be the third anniversary of Anzac Day, it found Australian troops in full possession of the town of Villers-Bretonneux.
But the enemy did not abandon all hope of re-taking this important strategic position, until he had made repeated costly but unsuccessful attempts. In spite of all his many efforts, Villers-Bretonneux remained in our hands until the termination of the War.
Hence onwards, until the end of April we experienced a somewhat quiet time, that is, quiet to what we were used to.
We saw very few Germans, but it was quite evident they did not fail to see us, for we sustained several losses due to enemy snipers.
We went to a new sector on April 25th where we carried on extensive patrolling until relieved in that location by the 33rd Battalion, and then we marched to a bivouac, prior to going to La Houssaye for a rest. Earlier in the month our strength was 51 officers and 1008 other ranks. This was reduced at the end of the month to 49 officers and 967 other ranks.
A WELL EARNED RESPITE
At the beginning of the month of May, it was decided that all units of the Third Division should be withdrawn for a brief rest. Ever since the momentous rush down to the Somme from Northern France, which started on March 22nd, our Battalion had been continuously employed.
Accordingly, at dusk on May 1st, we moved out en route for La Houssaye, which village was reached at midnight, when we billeted and partook of a most appreciated meal.
The route traversed was an emergency track over the River Ancre, East of Bonnay.
We spent several days in La Houssaye during which a good deal of attention was given to further training, for whilst in the line for any length of time ordinary routine was relaxed, and this rendered it necessary for us to get into training again at the earliest possible moment
Our Heads saw to it that this matter was seldom, or rather never, overlooked.
The weather was excellent and we were in the best of spirits. Although some considerable time had elapsed since we had openly paid attention to our religious duties most of us had in privacy given much time and thought in this direction. Sunday, May 5th gave us the opportunity of attending a church parade, which was availed of by practically every man.
But we had no sooner got used to La Houssaye and began to like the place than we were ordered to prepare to move off. Accordingly we left La Houssaye behind or May 9th at 11 in the morning. Querrieu was our destination. We halted on the way there at a place called Pont Noyelles.
We took over billets from the 25th Australian Battalion at 7 p.m., and for a few days spent our time as pleasantly as conditions would allow. We indulged in the usual training and had many sports gatherings when various competitions and races excited considerable interest.
BOIS VABBE (ABBEY WOOD) VILLERS-BRETONNEUX
We were inspected on May 17th by the Commander-in-Chief of the British Forces, General Sir Douglas Haig, who expressed himself favourably impressed by the men of the 11th Brigade.
The following day we were on the move again and established ourselves in the La Houssaye switch line. Here we remained until the 20th of May, when we received orders to march to the now famous town of Villers-Bretonneux. We left at 1.30 p.m., travelling through Daours and eventually relieved the 15th Battalion in reserve lines at 10 p.m. Our headquarters were established at La Motte-Brebiere. We were employed in improving the defences of the support and communicating trenches.
On May 23rd, our front line was advanced by digging a succession of posts. Our A Company relieved a company of the Pioneer Battalion in the town defences of Villers-Bretonneux and, for the time being, came under the command of the O.C. 44th Battalion.
SERIOUS GAS ATTACKS
The next day, May 24th a heavy artillery duel was heard coming from the direction of Albert. The following day we were subjected to the severest and most serious gas attack in our experience.
It started at 5.30 p.m., when the enemy shelled our positions with mustard gas. For fully half an hour he poured it in. A few hours later, at 8.30, the gas bombardment recommenced and lasted for three hours. A heavy concentration of gas pervaded the atmosphere, which caused the wearing of gas masks to be imperative and continuous. Whilst these gas-shells were coming over to us in such profusion, a very considerable number of high explosive shells were directed by the enemy on to the roads, rendering the movement of all transport a most hazardous undertaking. This naturally caused much delay in the bringing up of rations to the companies in the line. They were eventually delivered at mid-night.
Our C Company was in the defences of Villers-Bretonneux, whilst the remaining companies were employed as working parties. Next day the gas bombardment was renewed and lasted for at least three hours. For over eight hours we had worn our gas masks, consequently it was impossible for us to get any sleep. In spite of being thus harassed we had only seven casualties, but it was when we got to our shelters that the effect of the gas became apparent.
As the day wore on, the heat of the sun drew out the fumes that had accumulated among the trees in the wood. A choppy wind then sprang up which drove clouds of gas constantly towards the sleeping men, who on awakening found their eyes very badly affected. As time passed the ill effects increased. Another cause of the casualties was that uniforms had become absolutely saturated with the gas which permeated the atmosphere. During the night, whilst they slept- the men inhaled fumes from their impregnated clothing- Even the doctor's orderly, who had been nowhere near the scene of the gassing, became a casualty, having inhaled a quantity of gas by merely bending over and attending to the men who were being evacuated. At the end of the day, every officer and man of A and B Companies bivouacked in the Valley, had to be evacuated.
On May 27th our numbers were so depleted that it was necessary to form a composite company.
We relieved the 44th Battalion in the line. D Company took over with C Company and the Composite Company in supports, and on May 28th we were in the line astride Villers-Bretonneux.
There was not a great deal of shelling in the forward areas, though our Headquarters were subjected to a heavy "Straafe" during the evening.
FRENCH ZOUAVES
Up to this time we had not met any French with the exception of those we became acquainted with when "On Leave," or in the estaminets. In the Sector we now occupied, we came across many of them They were called Zouaves. They came around to exchange with us, but as they could not talk our language and in spite of the months we had been in France our knowledge of French was still limited to a jargon known as 'Digger French," it was not possible to hold lengthy conversations. Yet withal, a mutual understanding and appreciation was established in semi-silence between these French troops and ourselves, far more eloquent than words could have achieved.
IN THE QUARRY
Our location on May 29th was known as "The Quarry," and whilst here two German soldiers walked into our lines, having lost their bearings. We naturally made them prisoners to which they appeared to have not the slightest objection.
We made improvements in our outpost lines by connecting the posts and placing fire-bays therein.
During the last two days of the month of May, Villers-Bretonneux was subjected to severe shelling, demolishing many of the buildings which had thus far escaped serious injury. The enemy artillery received all they were looking for in the way of "reciprocity" at the hands of our Australian gunners.
Maj. GENERAL GELLIBRAND TAKES COMMAND of the THIRD DIVISION
On May 30th, General Monash, who up to this time was in command of the Third Australian Division, assumed command of the newly formed Australian Army Corps, thence onward the Third Division became under the command of Major-General Gellibrand.
In his farewell order to the Third Division General Monash states:
"I find it impossible to give adequate expression to my feelings of gratitude towards all ranks for the splendid and loyal support which you have at all times accorded me"
"It is my earnest hope, and also my sincere conviction, that the fine spirit and the high efficiency will be maintained under the leadership of my successor, Brigadier-General Gellibrand, and if the men of the Division feel, as I trust they do, an obligation to perpetuate for my sake, the traditions built up by them, they can do so in no better way than by rendering to him a service as thorough and a support as loyal as I have been privileged to enjoy at their hands".
"In formally wishing the Division Good-bye and' Good Luck, I wish simply, but none the less sincerely, to thank you one and all for all you have done."
JUNE 1918
The month of June was somewhat of a contrast to those months which had preceded it. Had we but known, we might have regarded the period as "the calm which presages a storm." The weather throughout was remarkably good.
During the first four days we were engaged in front of Villers-Bretonneux our A Company was now a Composite Company. The 49th Battalion had a company supporting us on the right and another company in charge of the defences of the town. This arrangement was rendered necessary on account of the serious number of casualties, which were inflicted upon us by gas on May 26th.
On the second day of the month the enemy gave us another taste of gas. This time it was phosgene that he put over. No less than two thousand rounds of this gas fell in the area occupied by us. It was remarkable that no casualties eventuated there from.
Visited by the PRIME MINISTERS of FRANCE and AUSTRALIA
We this day received a visit from Monsieur Clemenceau, the Prime Minister of France. He accompanied our own Prime Minister of Australia the Right Honourable William Morris Hughes, familiarly known to the troops as Billy Hughes, who subsequently addressed us and complimented us upon our fine work and morale, making generous promises of rest and comforts that were to come our way
Just before midnight of June 4th, we were relieved and whilst the operation was in progress our approaches to and from the line were severely strafed. Eventually we arrived at our new location, which was a railway cutting known as "Number 28," and here our Battalion became part of a reserve brigade. We enjoyed the luxury of frequent bathing in the River Somme, but training and the everlasting "fatigues" and working parties continued unabated. We remained in this locality until the twenty-third day of the month when we relieved the 40th Battalion in Abbey Wood, our Headquarters being at what was called "The White Chateau."
After a lapse of a few days we were in turn relieved on the 27th, on which day our Battalion Commander, who had been acting Brigadier-General, returned to the Battalion.
We marched to the Reserve Brigade Area at Blangy Tronville, prior to setting out for Allonville Wood on the following day. Owing to the frequency of bombing attack, at Allonville, it was found necessary to sink all bivouacs at least two feet below the surface to afford shelter from the fragments of metal.
THE TANKS AND THE YANKS
The two final days of the month brought us face to face with two factors in the War with which we had hitherto little or no experience. These were The Tanks and The Yanks.
To the Tanks we were introduced on June 29th. In the quiet little village of Vaux, situated in a pleasant valley, north-west of Amiens, the tanks were made to go through their performances. They demonstrated to us what might be expected of them. As we got better acquainted with these monsters, so our confidence in them increased. We gradually grew more familiar with the habits of these strange, uncanny huge masses of mechanism and placed reliance on their support.
As for the Yanks, our first glimpse of the American Army came along with the last day of the month. A few platoons of Yanks reported to us for experience to enable them to take part in the next stunt. They exhibited great keenness and were appreciative listeners. The strength of the Battalion had by this time dwindled down to 33 officers and 669 other ranks. Also see ANZACS & ARMOUR
The American army magazine Stars and Stripes printed the following:
THE DIGGERS
Most Australians have been out since 1914, going through the hell of the Dardanelles and later being transported to France, where they earned the right, if ever soldiers did, to wear that natty bonnet of theirs at such a cocky angle.
Without exception, the Aussies all hope to be sent home "by the other way so that we can see America". We hope they will be sent home that way if they want to. Besides wishing to have them see America- which we are pardonably proud of - we should like to have America see them.
PREPARATIONS FOR THE BATTLE OF HAMEL
When July dawned it found the 42nd Battalion busily engaged organising and preparing for the stunt which we instinctively knew would be carried out very shortly. Our new friends, the Yanks, had been taken over in lorries to Vaux-sur Somme, in order to let them get acquainted with the tanks.
On July 2nd, we abandoned our "homes" in the rest area at Allonville, and marched via Querrieu and Pont Noyelles to Bussey le Daours where we had a hot meal. After a couple of hours rest we continued the journey to the line, marching through Daours and then alongside the Somme until the village of Hamlet was reached. Here we were met by guides who directed us into the Hamel sector.
Our occupation was completed by midnight. Battalion Headquarters were established in Shrapnel Gully in conjunction with the 46th Battalion. Next day, the 3rd of July, we were resting in the trenches. Hot meals were supplied to us, but on account of the forthcoming operation, which was to be sprung as a complete surprise upon the enemy, movement of every description had to be reduced to a minimum.
AMERICAN TROOPS WITHDRAWN
It was the general belief, that as a compliment to our American Allies, the day chosen for the assault would probably be July 4th, American Independence Day. This surmise turned out to be correct. It was, therefore- a sore disappointment to us when we learnt that three out of the five companies of U.S.A. troops, which had been attached to our 11th Brigade, would not take part. But we could not blame the men who comprised those companies for they were, if possible, even more disappointed than we, for this was to have been their first real battle but orders had to be obeyed.
This alteration of plans necessitated more than a considerable amount of readjustment of troops. Here at the eleventh hour, the attacking force had to be reorganised at practically a moment's notice. The withdrawal of these 750 men left the Brigade with only 2200 men instead of just on 3000 as had been expected
Only four platoons of Americans took part with our Battalion in the Hamel stunt. A composite company had to be made up, hastily from our C Echelon in order to replace the American troops which had been withdrawn. The front allotted to the 42nd Battalion was from the south bank of the Somme to the road north of Hamel.
THE BATTLE OF HAMEL
The whole offensive was under the charge of General McLagan of the 4th Division. One brigade each from the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Divisions took part. The 11th Brigade was chosen from the 3rd Division.
As soon as darkness permitted the assembly, tapes were laid down by our scout officer, and at 2 am- the entire Battalion was on the line without the slightest hitch. Preparations were all complete, and the remaining time, up to zero hour was reasonably quiet, excepting that at eight minutes prior to zero hour, our artillery put up a tremendously heavy harassing fire upon all the enemy positions.
This was all part of a plan. For several nights past, our artillery had been sending over a regular and organised "shoot" which must have created in the mind of the enemy that it was just one of our bad habits. On this occasion, however, the roar of our guns was utilised as a means of drowning the noise of the tanks as they took up their positions.
Waiting in No-man's Land on assembly lines was always a time of tension. Our men well knew the danger and seriousness of the work to be carried out, and that upon their silence depended the success of the enterprise. Cigarettes were rolled, during these anxious moments, and immediately the order to advance was given, matches were struck, cigarettes puffed, as the troops went forward courageously and unperturbed.
On July 4th, at 3.10 a.m. our offensive opened with a mighty artillery barrage, which fell in No-man's Land, 400 yards east of our front line. The whole atmosphere seemed almost alight with gun flashes. Immediately the artillery started the harassing fire, the tanks began to move forward from their assembly point and Continued the movement whilst the guns were roaring, so that by zero time they were well forward. In all thirty-five tanks were employed; thirty-three fighters and two supply tanks.
The barrage crept up in lifts up to 600 yards beyond the objective, where it remained for one hour.
No sooner had the barrage lifted than we all went forward with confidence as though going on a route march, and this greatly amused our companions from America. By the time we had made our first halt, the tanks were well up with us. They then went forward in advance, attacking machine-gun positions and other strong points.
Whilst this was transpiring, an enemy tank appeared upon the scene. It made for one of our tanks which had been partially disabled. When quite close, the enemy tank brought its gun into action, and missed. Our tank turned in time to avoid trouble, just as another of our tanks came to its rescue, bumping the Hun tank severely and setting it on fire. The Hun tank, much discomforted, made a bolt for it and scooted hurriedly to the rear of Accroche Wood, where it was last seen in a badly burnt condition.
The work of our tanks was astonishing. No obstacle could impede their progress. It was soon discovered that it was possible for infantry commanders to speak to the tanks, and direct their movements towards strong points which were holding up the infantry. Their antics were most amusing, especially so the spectacle of one of them rounding up parties of the enemy who had been sheltering in shell-holes, and then sending them back as prisoners.
During our advance, several enemy machine-guns caused trouble. In one instance, three members of one of our Lewis-gun crews were knocked out. One of the crew who was uninjured, out-flanked the German machinegun, and by the aid of Mills bombs and his bayonet, succeeded in getting the entire enemy machine-gun crew.
In another instance, a party went to attack a heavy machine-gun which was causing us much trouble. Just as the job was about completed, the officer in charge of the party was killed, when a private carried on in spite of a severe leg wound. This private rushed the machinegun, his strength was almost spent, but it lasted sufficiently long to enable him to bayonet the enemy gunner. He then fell unconscious without being able to extract the bayonet.
The Americans worked well and gave excellent service. Their admiration for the Australian soldier was unbounded. We, on our part, equally reciprocated those sentiments.
Our companies subsequently established themselves in what had so recently been the Headquarters of the enemy. Set out in them, we found numerous documents and maps. There was also an abundance of food which had evidently been only recently delivered. The enemy was apparently paralysed by the suddenness of our assault, for little trouble was experienced from his field artillery which must have been hastily withdrawn.
Neither, during the day, did he make any serious attempts to retaliate by way of counter-attacks. Our patrols, on the contrary, were very active and searched every locality likely to afford cover. They "mopped-up" as they went. The number of prisoners they sent back was evidence of the completeness with which the job was executed.
At dusk, however, the 11th Brigade had to withstand a very determined counter-attack. The enemy made a strenuous effort to regain the lost territory, but he was driven off with heavy loss. The remainder of the night passed quietly, except upon the adjoining Battalion front, where a "strong point" which had not been mopped-up caused a lot of trouble. Eventually this was dealt with most effectively.
July 5th found the enemy feeling his way back again, and our front line was subjected to heavy "strafing" at intervals.
Our total casualties in this operation were: Two officers and one other ranks killed; forty-eight other ranks wounded. The American losses were: Two officers and three other ranks wounded.
At midnight, July 5th, we were relieved and moved to La Neuville. Here we bivouacked and had breakfast preparatory to marching to Daours, where we were met by omnibuses which conveyed us to Allonville, which was reached by 1 o'clock p.m. on July 6th. The Battalion had been away exactly four days. The band played us in.
News of the good work we had accomplished had long since been passed back and much appreciation and many congratulations were expressed by members of neighbouring units who had assembled to greet us.
WE PART WITH THE AMERICANS
When our bivouac area was reached, the Americans, with much demur, realised that their association with us must now end. Many a short-lived friendship was thus severed but never entirely forgotten.
The Americans expressed a one and only wish, namely, "that they might be allowed always to remain with the Australians!' The men of the platoon of Americans which had been withdrawn at the last moment, were filled with lamentations and made no secret of their disappointment. It might be mentioned that several of them tried various ruses which they thought would enable them to enter the stunt. It is known that in at least two instances, American privates borrowed Australian uniforms and as camouflaged Diggers realised their ambitions. These troops belonged to the 131st American Battalion.
EULOGIES AND MESSAGES OF CONGRATULATION
On the completion of the operation eulogistic expressions were duly received from Brigade, Divisional and Army Commanders, as well as from General Headquarters. Praiseworthy and congratulatory messages were forwarded by the Prime Minister of Great Britain, the Prime Minister of Australia, who was then in London, and a day later, from our own people in Australia through the Governor-General. As to the gains due to this operation the final calculations were as follows:
1500 prisoners, including 60 officers.
150 machine-gun.
73 Minenwerfer guns, light and heavy.
2000 rifles.
100 scout pistols.
A wireless set and a considerable amount of equipment, tools and material.
THE WORK OF THE AIR FORCE
Any account of the Battle of Hamel would be incomplete without reference to the work of the Air Force, which throughout maintained supremacy of the air. For the first time in warfare, ammunition in boxes was delivered to the gunners in the forward area by aeroplanes, and food supplies were dropped by the same means
EXCELLENT WORK BY ALL SERVICES
Medical and signal services were both of them excellently maintained. They stood up to the strain of continuous calls, in fact, there was not one branch, arm or detail that did not carry out all the duties assigned with a precision bordering upon perfection,
A BRIEF RESPITE AT ALLONVILLE
July 6th found us indulging in sports in the Woods of Allonville. Of course the usual training was not forgotten, and though we should have preferred to spend a much longer time in those peaceful and picturesque surroundings, after a week's residence, we were called upon to get on the move again.
Allonville presented itself to us as a typical French estate. There was a particularly fine chateau nestling among the trees which we were given to understand was the country residence of the Hennessy's of Three Star Brandy fame.
Our transfer took us to the Hamel sector. Here on July 17th, during the early hours of the morning, the enemy peppered us with mustard gas. Although he gave us a very generous issue, effective treatment prevented casualties, whilst a fall of rain fortunately cleared the atmosphere very considerably.
We remained in this sector until August 4th, when we proceeded to Corbie. Here we were shown a complete replica of the ground over which our next stunt was to be performed. The exact date was kept a profound secret from us. It was, however, quite evident that the time for the "hop-over" was not far distant. Comprehensive re-fitting and re-equipment were sufficient indications. Our "rest" was now over. The 42nd Battalion was once again ready and alert, straining like a greyhound on the leash.
At length, on August 8th, the curtain went up upon the first scene of what transpired to be "the Last Act' of the Great War.
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