CHARLES WILLIAM NIGHTINGALL (12 June 1893 - 25
August 1983)
WWI MEMOIRS
This was written by my father in May 1972 and is a synopsis of letters he
wrote to his parents during WWI. The original letters (written in pencil) are at
the University of Leeds (Liddle Collection email:specialcollections@library.leeds.ac.uk, tel 0113 3435518), and are filed
there as part of a project being done on WW I, and particularly the Gallipoli
campaign. I have copies of all the letters (600 pages).
Robert Nightingall 20 Feb 2008.
Background
Elder son of William Nightingall of South Hatch, Epsom, Surrey who was a
well-known Racehorse Trainer. Born June 12th 1893.
Educated as a child by Governess and from about 6 years to 10 years at private
day school. From 10 years to 16 years old at private boarding school. Whilst
there I was a member of the Cadet Corps (Royal Engineers) and Captain of the
shooting six.
From 16 years to 19 years I was a pupil with Chartered Surveyors. The fees
were £100 a year and parents also had to pay for lodgings. In these days pupils
get paid!!
From 19 to 21 years Valuation Assistant in the Land Valuation Dept, Inland
Revenue at Reigate. Salary £90 p.a.
This salary was paid all during war (less Army Pay.) During these 2 years I
passed the Intermediate Exam of the Surveyors Institution (Took 18 month
correspondence Course).
Earliest recollections.
Attending the rejoicings on Epsom Downs, to celebrate the relief of Mafeking.
I remember it because a spent rocket hit me on head! Witnessed the Funeral of
King Edward VII in London.
Recruitment
Had visited the Surrey Yeomanry at their Annual Camps in 1912 and 1913 as I
knew many of those serving. I had ridden ponies and horses ever since a young
child.
On August 4th 1914 was on a holiday at Brighton and at mid-night stood
cheering outside Daily Telegraph Office.
Next day re-called to office and joined Reigate Borough Police as Motor
Cyclist Scout visiting water works, bridges etc.
Joined Yeomanry on September 3rd 1914 from patriotic motives and because I
didn't want to miss the "fun"!!
Sent to Headquarters of Regiment at Clapham Park, London, where there was
a riding school and taught how to ride "Military Fashion". Billeted in private
house and slept on the floor of sitting room. After a few weeks joined
Regiment in Camp at Old Park Farm, Canterbury.
My troop of C. Squadron nearly all came from Epsom, Dorking, Reigate and Redhill,
so there was a strong territorial feeling of comradeship. Men mostly of good education,
farmers, upper tradesmen and professional men. Officers all County Gentry.
Our Colonel Humphreys was chairman of Hayes Wharf, and we got nearly all our first
transport from there as well as drivers and farriers.
1
Religion
I am not particularly religious, but often attended Holy Communion and in time of
danger prayed for protection. So did many others and I sometimes wonder why some
were killed and others not.
Discipline
I am a strong believer in this, even "bull " helps self-respect.
First class field punishment was degrading and ought never to have been used. I
witnessed a regular army man undergoing this in Alexandria, he was spread-eagled to a
wagon wheel in full sight of "wogs" for quite a trivial offence. When I was Brigade
Orderly Sergt at Cavalry Corps re-enforcement camp at Abbeville in June 1918, a man
came to me for pay and I found from his pay book that he had had none for 2 years. He
said he had been in prison all that time, charged with "Cowardice in face of the enemy".
According to him he had got drunk and while incapable his Unit had gone up the line.
Morale
When in hospital at Wimereux in December 1916. There were many men who
had been wounded several times and didn’t want to go “up the line again”.
They were trying to gangrene their wounds with copper coins.
In late 1918 there were signs of disaffection amongst young soldiers, both at
Abbeville and Etaples.
Letters & Parcels were eagerly looked forward to (even more than rations). I was
lucky, my mother wrote every week, also sent home-made butter, which reached me in
good condition, even at Imbros, she packed it in Tate & Lyle syrup tins done up in
calico. It was sometimes 5 or 6 weeks on the way. Also parcels containing socks,
mittens etc., newspapers and writing paper. Also had frequent letters and parcels from
brother and sisters and various Aunts and Uncles.
The postal arrangements must have been superb, because I was often attached to
different Corps and Divisional Schools and letters nearly always reached me in the end.
Machine Guns.
When I volunteered as a Gunner my friends all thought I was mad to join the "Suicide
Club", but on looking back I can see it saved my life, otherwise I should not have got
the job as Instructor and thus kept out of infantry.
I have no doubt I could have got a commission, but thought a "live sergeant was better
than a dead 2nd Lieut".
Horses
All Yeomen had great love of their horses, I have seen men sit up all night if his horse
was ill and some very upset when we had to part with them.
At first hearing gun-fire horses were very alarmed, but after a short while took little
notice.
Looking after horses entailed very considerable work, after moving from one place to
another, horse lines had to be put down and stable guards mounted. They had to be
watered and fed at least 3 times a day, as well as groomed.
I reckon that when in full marching order a horse had to carry about 300 Lbs. (Details
of equipment could be supplied if necessary, but expect the information is already
known).
In the advance from the Somme to the Hindenburg Line in March 1917, I lent my
horse to a friend who was going on a patrol. He was badly wounded and the horse was
2
killed and was buried in the bottom of a mine crater at the cross-roads in Tertry. Bit of
luck I wasn't on him!!
Leave was very hard to come by and when over, the parting was heart-breaking.
Relatives very distressed and troops trying to show a brave face.
Soldiers on leave thought few people in England realised the sights at the front and
were only thinking of more wages.
Corps Schools
Whilst at AA School attached to R.F.C. (Royal Flying Corp) (near Poperinge) a pilot
offered to take me up in the afternoon in his RE8. In the morning he went up with
some bombs which he thought he had dropped, but unfortunately one was still hanging
by the tail. When he landed it went off and he was blown to pieces. Have never yet
flown!!
At 6th Corps School my pupils were Canadian A.S.C. The permanent staff at school
were guardsmen.
"Wellington Barracks" drill in morning, march on parade to markers, and dress while
drum beating. Then rifle inspection.
My men knew nothing of infantry drill and I not much more. When their rifles were
inspected, it turned out that they had never been previously unstrapped from their
wagons (or not for months). Regimental Sergeant Major told me not to bring that b---- lot on Parade again. What a relief!!
Further reminiscences of Imbros and Alexandria.
At first there were no hand-grenades on the Peninsular and troops manufactured
"Ticklers Artillery" out of jam tins filled with metal, with fuse which had to be lit
with match and then thrown.
The battleships and Monitors seemed short of HE (High Explosive) shells and
sometimes only fired a few a day. Shrapnel is not much good on rocky dug-outs.
There was a regular daily service from H.Q. at Imbros to the Peninsular with a timetable. Staff Officers and others went off daily with their attaché cases like a lot of
“commuters”.
The Greek working parties at the camp, came from the interior of the Island, and used
to go home at week-ends through the hill picquet round the camp (previously
mentioned). We searched them all, once, and got a waggon load of loot, men with 5
or 6 shirts on, several pairs of socks, picks, shovels, water bottles etc.
There was a great shortage of candles, and we used to walk along the sea-shore
picking up the fag ends of candles used on ships riding lights. Then melt them down
in round cigarette tins with a piece of material as wick. They lasted a long time.
In Alexandria I was once on the night Town Picquet - 40 men armed with entrenching
tool handles and followed by two lorries, clearing out brothels and picking up drunks.
Not a very edifying experience.
3
C.W. Nightingall
C Squadron Surrey Yeomanry
See letters dated
5/2/15
16/3/15
Joined the 29th Division at Stratford-on-Avon and were reequipped. The Infantry had just returned from India and were in
Drill Uniforms. Although in billets, they caught severe colds and
the 2nd Hants Regiment were parading 100 sick a day. Our horses
were billeted in stables at the back of all the Pubs - very handy for
coffee and rum before breakfast!!
The men of the Hampshires were real old "sweats", never had any
money and great beer drinkers. We had a bit more than them and
when we met we used to buy quarts of beer and everybody helped
themselves, money or not.
On the move, expect to go to Turkey. Took on the job of batman to
the Squadron Sergt Major, got extra 15/- (15 shillings) a month.
Regimental History
Division told O.C. (Officer Commanding) that we should disembark at once
on arrival at Dardanelles. As 2 officers, 40 OR (Other Ranks) and all horsee
and transport on "Tintoretto"; three officers and 50 OR on "Aragon"; 1 Officer
and 40 OR on "Vadala”, wondered how it would be managed. It appeared that
every other unit was similarly placed. Had to land at Alexandria and sort
everybody out.
Letters 20/3/15 & 27/3/15
Embarked 17/3/15, sailed at night from Avonmouth. I was in
hammock and never knew we were moving (was on “Aragon").
For 2 days everybody very sick. I was one of the few who wasn't.
Food indescribable, worst we have had, biscuit and bully, tripe,
musty bread. 1800 on board, packed like sardines. Wagons on
deck. Liked the hammocks, very comfortable. Bed 7.30.pm. up
5.30.am.
Sun shining, sea lovely. Issued with Sun Helmets (Toupees).
Vaccinated .
31/3/15
Ship coaled at Malta. Great reception by ships in harbour, French.
Ship and everywhere smothered in coal dust.
2/4/15
Arrived in Alexandria.
4/4/15
Landed and marched 3 miles to Camp on seashore. Easter Sunday
church parade in stadium. Stayed for Holy Communion – very
impressive.
11/4/15
Keen wind and flies. Bathe in sea. Division inspected by C - in - C,
General Hamilton. We led. Had been in camp an hour and
procession still passing. English paper cost 2.5 piastres (1
piastre=2.5 d), about a fortnight old. Take horses swimming in the
sea, they enjoy it
4
16/4/15
8/5/15
Very hot, thousands of locusts flying overhead and eating
everything green. French troops dressed in red breeches and hats.
Two-thirds of locals seem to do nothing, the rest are "hawkers".
Had my hair cut off with horse clippers, look like convict 99.
Town full of wounded from Dardanelles. They say the landing was
a hell, in small boats and Turks only 100 yards off, barbed wire
entanglements under the sea, pits with spikes.
Col. of Hampshires was killed.
Went to races, backed 3 winners, 2 seconds and a third. Our
camping ground is surrounded by cemeteries. At a native funeral
the corpse was carried up, looked around for a suitable spot,
scratched a hole about 4 feet deep, in course of which dug up
another body with half flesh still on.
Grave digger struck a match on bier and lighted fag, blew his nose
on shroud, stuck body in head first as grave not big enough.
22/30 May15 Supplied the Governor General's guard. Talked to wounded
men of 2nd Hants who said only 150 men left alive out of 1200
and 50 of these wounded. All officers killed except one. Getting
very hot stuff with a darning needle, also at washing clothes.
Very hot 1070 in shade and 1340 in sun.
Men of approved character can go to Cairo from Friday to
Monday. I am hopeful of going.
Note: I never did, moved the very day I was going. Bought some
big prawns, they cost 1 piastre (2.5d) for 20.
6/6/15
Cold meat instead of stew. Can buy 3 tomatoes and a small
cucumber for half piastre.
Sultan's guard came past this morning with lances and penants on
beautiful Arab horses. The Mauritania came into harbour, rushed
to Dardanelles in 5 days full of troops.
PC (Post Card)
12/6/15
My 22nd birthday - off to Dardanelles tomorrow, what a birthday
present!! Going as Infantry.
16/6/15
At sea. Went to Docks on 15th and loaded a filthy old tub with iron
decks, no portholes, 15 horses.
Fortunately she caught fire in coal bunkers so had to unload it again.
Returned to Camp and heartily jeered by those we had left behind.
Embarked next day in "Southland" a much better ship.
Regt History- Whilst waiting on quay a squad of soldiers appeared and arrested our
new interpreter!, supposed to be a Greek spy. He left his haversack on
board which contained 1 tin of pineapple and a small pamphlet by Bryce
on “Correct behaviour of neutrals in war time”.
17/6/15
Arrived at Lemnos.
21/6/15
Fine large natural harbour, full of battleships, transports etc. All round
rocky hills and little villages, reminds me of the South Downs.
Regt History Stopped on board till 24/6. Waiting for small boat to take us to Imbros several turned up but none willing to take our 15 horses. Finally someone did take our horses tied up to rail on deck.
5
22 & 23/6/15 Arrived Imbros 25/6/15. No transport on island except strings of
donkeys with Sudanese drivers.
Note - We used to go by boat to refrigerator ship in harbour, load up
frozen sheep carcases and load about 6 to a donkey.
28/6/15 & see cutting from Daily Telegraph 17/7/15 (photos of Dardanelles)
Went to Peninsular “W” Beach. Imagine a big sandy beach cove red
with Marquis tents, sand bag she1ters, horses, mules, guns, Red X
Ambulances, stretchers, roar of guns.
We went by fishing trawler and landed by motor boat at jetty. First sight
a cemetery on shore surrounded by barbed wire. Wonder how all stores
ever got there, everything from packet of pins to respirators, etc.
Men look pretty weird with beards. Saw dead and wounded being
brought down.
Note: Saw the bows of battleships "Majestic" and "Triumph”, sticking
out of water, also the "River Clyde".
Just been down to the harbour and saw the General (Hamilton) come off
destroyer, he was as pleased as punch and said that we have had a good
day and taken several lines of trenches.
4/7/15
Sunday. Went to Church Parade, the C in C, General Hamilton,
inspected us. He seemed pleased and congratulated us on our
appearance. News is good, won't be long before we are in
Constantinople.
Regt History: Extract from General Hamilton's diary 4/7/15 "Made a close
inspection of the Surrey Yeomanry. Even with as free a hand as the
Almighty, it would be hard to invent a better type of fighting men than
the British Yeoman”.
19/7/15
Rushed into sea with my wrist watch on - it has stopped.
28/7/15
Copy of the Peninsular Press.
9/8/15
Twelve men gone to Gully Beach to act as Military Police. Am
perturbed by newspapers reporting strikes everywhere at home. Think
they forget we earn 1/4d a day, living on biscuit and bully and 1 pint of
water to drink, wash and shave.
13/8/15
Written in a Staff Office where I am on duty from 9.30 pm till 7 am.
tomorrow morning. Marks on paper are squashed mosquitos.
19/8/15
Something in the wind, can't tell you what (Suvla landing).
22/8/15
Bought some fish off a Greek, gutted them and were going to fry, but no
dripping, so had to boil them.
23/8/15
Numerous hospital ships coming in and out. Getting very good at
washing clothes in cold water.
28/8/15
Talk of moving this camp to another part of island called "K" beach.
Gale and thunderstorms, “K” beach is a rotten place , not much water,
thousands of wounded straight from battlefield - Turkish prisoners,
Arab, Greek and Sudanese working parties. One of our submarines sank
4 ships in Sea of Marmara -, getting a little milk but no vegetables, no
butter since June.
Big crop of apricots somewhere as we had no other jam since coming
here.
6/9/15
Party back from Peninsular, had a rotten time, little grub, no cover, lost
all their belongings. Had been burying dead, and battle police.
Submarine E 11, Commander Holbrook, came in from Sea of Marmara,
all men on Battleships dressed ship and gave rousing cheers.
10/9/15
Sent 10 x 10/-(ten shilling) Bank Notes home as no-where to spend it.
6
19/9/15
27/9/15
4/10/15
10/10/15
Note: These were endorsed in Turkish and are supposed to be worth £60
each now. They were paid into my account at home (no luck).
Camp nearly ready in valley surrounded by rocky hills covered with
scrub. Supplied with E.P. Marquis which will be warmer than Bell
Tents.
Y.M.C.A. canteen just opened, have a piano and games, can get eggs and
tea at moderate prices. No cups, drink out of jam tin.
Saw some English Nurses on Hospital Ship. First females we have seen
since we arrived.
Bombed by Turkish aeroplane, also dropped a lot of steel arrows about
6" long. (Never heard of this before or since). No damage.
Hard at work getting new camp ready, pick and shovel, ground very
rocky.
At 7.30 am went to Holy Communion. Weather getting colder.
Only 3 aeroplane raids this week, no damage. Guns from battleships
made them clear off. Think they are after Commander Sampson who
flies a small “blimp" spotting for the guns. Weather turned quite hot
again. Confirmation service by Bishop Price.
Expeditionary Force Canteen opened at “K" beach - stood in queue for
2 hours. I and two others bought about £7 of stuff- English pickles 8d a
bottle, tinned fruit 1/- (one shilling) a tin, biscuits, candles, cake, salmon
etc.
New camp nearly ready, but trouble getting enough water.
Hear the Turks are fed up.
Parade to decorate 2 French officers. We turned out with fixed bayonets
with about 100 others and formed 3 sides of a square. General Sir lan
Hamilton presented medals and made little speech.
Read in papers of Football Games etc at home with 100,000 spectators.
Pity they have nothing else to do.
2nd Mounted Division Yeomanry (dismounted) made magnificent
charge at Chocolate Hill, Suvla, took it, but had to retire. Thank
goodness we are here, no hankering to get into firing line - off to Cape
Helles tomorrow.
Went to "W" Beach with maps, started by mine-sweeper at 6.30 am.
Pleasant trip over, job didn't take long so looked around as there was no
boat back till 4 pm. Place altered a lot since July. Much work including
unloading ammunition, R.E's (Royal Engineers) laying railway. Found
someone I knew who took me to his dug-out. Peeped over the top of the
hill and had a look at Ache-Bahe.
Wouldn't think there was a soul within 100 miles. Can hardly see
trenches or men and yet shells bursting all around. Shrapnel burst
overhead, but troops don’t seem to care - look around and say "wonder
where the next one will be".
Turks supposed to be short of ammunition and think they must be, as
otherwise would shell us off this beach in no time as it is under fire from
Asiatic side as well. Shells all round a French trawler towing barge with
guns. Never got nearer than 100 yards - poor shots.
Expeditionary Force Canteen in full swing at "K" beach - supposed to
have 10,000 tons of stores.
A great many of the Squadron have gone off sick, mostly boils and
dysentry.
7
18/10/15
24/10/15
31/10/15
3/11/15
8/11/15
15/11/15
21/11/15
29/11/15
30/11/15
1/12/15
Just moved to “K” beach. Have been taken ill with something the matter
with stomach, have been rather rocky and still laid up.
General Hamilton has gone away with personal staff.
Another General appointed (General Munro).Must be something in the
wind.
Haven’t done much as have been rather queer.
Note: Had dysentery badly, sat on pole in latrines nearly all day and
night, with many others, disgusting business, with flies etc and open
trench.
Turned bitterly cold and tons of rain. The war here does not seem to be
getting on, neither side seems to be doing anything - Only treatment for
dysentery is arrowroot.
The canteen appears to have sold out, too rough to land their stuff.
Glad to say feel a good deal better. Can't taste anything properly yet and
walking about with sticks.
Feeling better but still cannot taste anything.
At present I and 12 others stationed right on top of mountains above
H.Q. camp. Sentry go 2 hours on and 4 off, day and night ( Note: this job
lasted 3 weeks).
Have to walk miles to get rations and water. Mustn't grumble. Much
better than trenches.
Much better but wobbly on my “pins”. Someone gave me a bottle of
Phosperine which seems to be doing me good.
Got hold of some cabbages the other day, the first vegetables we have
had for months.
Received numerous parcels, but don't send any more soap, if washed
every ¼ hour, got enough to last a month.
Still feeling better and putting some flesh on.
Received tremendous box from Army and Navy stores from Bob
Sherwood of Newmarket (friend of Fathers, a Race Horse trainer) .See
invoice in letter.
K. of K. (Lord Kitchener) is somewhere around here, so suppose things
will shortly hum.
Weather fearfully cold especially at night, winds N. and N.E. blowing
great guns. Going to make some porridge in a minute. Equipment is old
bully beef tin with wire handle, 2 stones for fireplace, and some wood.
Got a warm bath last night. What a treat!! Cut an old tub in half and
boiled up 2 Dixies of water. Three of us shared it. First hot scrub since
last March.
Still on the hill guard, bitterly cold, snow today, driving wind, sheets of
rain, 2 inches of water in boots last night before had been out 20
minutes.
Froze hard in night. Been to the harbour this morning never seen such a
sight (several lines censored), but think it says beach covered with
wreckage of motor boats. Nothing can be landed here or on the
Peninsular.
Just got another blanket each. Grub ration altered, get cheese and rum
every night.
On stables this week, quite a treat to get on a horse again.
Staff officer named ”Ramsey” sent for me, said “Dunluce Castle” was in
harbour and had seen Mr Henderson (The Purser).
Note:(he was an old friend). Rushed off to Camp Commandant Major
Jack Churchill (brother of Winston) got an order to O.C. (Officer
8
Commanding) Boats to take me to her, but all boats smashed up. Had
visions of getting some comforts and drop of “tiddly”, as she was a
Hospital ship. (See original order in box).
5/12/15
11/12/15
19/12/15
25/12/15
26/12/15
7/1/16
9/1/16
15/1/16
Weather moderated - tried again to get to Dunluce Castle, but no luck.
Boat went out in night.
Some parcels and papers but no letters. Issued today with winter clothes,
2 shirts, 2 sets of underclothing (very thick), cardigan, pair socks and 2
cap comforters.
Today and most of week like summer. Canteen nearly exhausted, still
have salmon and tinned tomatoes. Got some oranges in the Greek
canteen. Hope to get a pass to go to village called “Panaghia" about 5
miles away. Two air raids this week but no damage, some of our shells
went near him.
Oatmeal issued twice a week. 4 ozs a man (2 is enough for meal).
Spending the festive season doing guard in the hills.
Went to Panaghlia, very pretty walk on narrow path over hills. Village
small and very dirty, 2 or 3 cafes and 2 so-called. hotels "High Life”·and
"London", both owe existence to troops. Had some grub and lager beer
1/6 (one shilling and sixpence) a large bottle, found a bottle of "Black &
White" (whiskey) for 7/-. Managed to sprain ankle and rode back on
mountain pony. Things are moving a bit out here, can't tell you what!!
Xmas Day. Still on sentry duty.. Lovely day, still warm.
Have been to Holy Communion, nice service, all the "heads" including
C. in C. were there. No mail for a week. Had some Xmas Pudding,
present from the "Daily News" ½ Lb per man. Persistent rumours of
moving either to Lemnos or Egypt.
Heavy bombardment on the Peninsular. Can see some monitors and the
balloon ship going out. Taube (German airplane) just came over and
dropped a few Xmas presents. Xmas dinner steak, tomatoe sauce, fried
onions, and cheese. Officers gave us some Port and also some
Benedictine. Camp fire concert in the camp with rum punch.
Relieved on picquet, now orderly in Signal Office.
Told no mails going for a week, expect transports wanted for something
else. No letter from you since 21/11.
ANZAC evacuated last week and SUVLA by now. Marvellous feat only,
2 casualties. On the hill picquet again.
Kept awake to see New Year in, made a bit of a row, but ships in
harbour an easy first, sirens wailing and shrieking. This is a deadly hole.
“Robinson Crusoe” must have had a worse time.
Another air raid, dropped one amongst mules (censored).
Our hut on the hill used to belong to Greek peasant, built of local stone,
walls 2 feet thick, inside plastered with mud and straw. 3 rooms, only
one with a window. Has plenty of occupants besides us in the way
of fleas.
Monitors and battleships strafing, one monitor has been firing 14"
gun from just outside harbour.
Still rumours about moving.
(See photos of mules & horses swimming ashore from K boats)
H.Q. gone, we are going to Egypt in about a week. No mails.
Helles has now been evacuated. I was sentry on the hill and saw
huge bonfires start about 4 am. Tons of stores being destroyed.
“A” Division has been evacuated here.
9
24/1/16
Still here, no mails, little work except marching and drilling.
Several air raids. Our R.S.M. (Regimental Sergeant Major) has
been presented with French Military Medal for good work here.
30/1/16
At sea (Sunday) left at an hours notice last Thursday - reached
Lemnos next day and transhipped to another boat. No room for
horses so left them in Mudros, with some men.
Regt History Strength embarked 5 Officers, 64 men and 18 horses. Fine big
boat 2500 on board, good grub. Wearing life belts all day. (see
photo).
1/2/16
Arrived Alexandria, camped with Yeomanry base details at Sidi
Bish. Remainder of the Squadron have been having a running fight
with the Senvssi (spelling?) on Western Frontier. Some mails
arrived, over 60 bags for us.
13/2/16
Weather beautiful - all feasting on Turkey and plum pudding.
Horses and men turned up from Mudros.
20/2/16
On a funeral party, 22 bearers, 12 firing party and 1 officer, got to
the cemetery, the coffin arrived but no padre, so we all went home
again (including the corpse).
27/2/16
Rest of Squadron turned up from Western Frontier.
Promoted Lance Corporal (un-paid).
10/3/16
Left Egypt on 3/3/16 on small cargo boat, utmost speed 8 knots.
Left our horses in Egypt, but landed with a lot of Artillery horses,
which are right in bottom of ship. Fearful job cleaning them out.
Everything has to be humped up and chucked overboard. Boat
seems flat bottomed, ran into storm, waves right over ship, washed
submarine guard back to bridge. Arrived Marseilles on 11/3/16.
14/3/16
Arrived Cavalry base at Rouen after 2.5 days in train. Journey very
interesting, train stopped at every station. French ladies very kind,
gave us hot drinks.
Regt History Entrained on 20/3/16 and finally arrived at Pont-Remy. During
the night a horse broke loose and jumped on line, we haven’t seen
it again. Fortunately a new interpreter turned up and brought his
own horse, and made up number.
23/3/16
Men in barns. Got a topping horse, a bit ancient, but very handy.
Issued with gas helmets. No French men to be seen except old and
children. Women do all the work.
1/4/16
Arrived at Brucamps, where inspected by General de Lisle, first
time he has seen us in the flesh. Arrived Amplier on 4/4/16. Sorry
to say got some unwelcome visitors (lice). Send some vermin killer
- make sure stuff effective as some sorts make animals more lively.
9/4/16
Arrived at Amplier, billeted in barn full of rats and mice, they
jump from head to head in the night. Great fun!!
10 men gone as Mounted Police at Acheux. Going through a gas
chamber with helmets.
16/4/16
Just completed week's bombing instruction. Interesting but hope
we don’t have to do job in earnest.
4/5/16
Saw some "Conchy's" (locals), glad to say they get all the filthy
jobs to do.
8/5/16
Moved to Heilly, camped in lovely park, joined up with 2
squadrons of South Irish Horse as Corps Cavalry to XV Corps.
Three troops gone off as Mounted Police. Had a lovely hot bath at
R.A.M.C.(Royal Army Medical Corps) place, tin bath, clean set of
10
10/5/16
26/5/16
1/6/16
18/6/16
23/6/16
30/6/16
5/7/16
6/7/16
7/7/16
clothes, not new. First proper bath for 14 months. Got kicked in
thigh and walking about with a stick. The horses are beginning to
grow their coats.
Leaving here tomorrow and joining different Army Corps (III
Corps) with 2 squadrons of Duke of Lancashire Own Yeomanry.
Inspected by Army Corps Commander. Hope we made a good
impression. A band there upset the horses and one reared up and
fell over backwards. Dug miles of support trenches at MaillyMailly. Rode right up to the work through some of our guns and in
full view of German kite balloons. Special display of hate in our
honour.
In a sort of cart shed at Bavelincourt which is dry for once, made a
rough bed. Hefty fatigues at rail head, unload goods trains full of pit
props, timber, iron girders, wire entanglements, heavy work but better
than trench digging.
Issued with 1 Hotchkiss gun per troop, I volunteered as crew. 3 Men and
4 horses (1 pack which carries gun). Lost our last blanket, now have to
sleep on dirty horse rug. Lost our mackintosh capes which are
withdrawn. Don’t suppose it will rain any more by order of the War
Office!!
Set off at 4.30 pm., mounted, about 150 of us. Went gaily riding on and
on, a guide took us over and we went right through "Albert", to the end
of communication trench Nr. Thiepval. Arrived 9 pm. and started to
carry up trench mortar bombs (60 Lbs. each). Seven in a party, five for
bombs, 1 for tails which were heavier, 1 for fuses which only weighed a
few Lbs. Big rush for that job!!
Stopped work at 3.30 am., arrived back at camp at reveille. Felt a bit
nervous on the job, especially when we were on top and star shells
bursting around.
On the Cathedral (Albert) is statue of the Virgin, which has been hit by
shell and is hanging down. On fatigue at railhead filling sand bags,
humping 6" shells (90 Lbs). If everyone I humped kills a German, shall
have a very good score!!
Squadron Sports. Our troop did well, Three 1st, Two 2nd and One third.
In expectation of moving at moments notice. Something big in the wind
(can't tell you what). Weather appalling. M.G. (Machine Gun) team got
revolvers now instead of rifles.
P.C (Post Card) In the trenches.
Field P.C. "I am quite well".
Turned out at 10 pm. (30/6/16), rode all night and arrived at Dernacourt
at 5.30 am. (1/7/16). Watered horses and started off again for the
trenches riding as far as we could (Becourt Wood).
NOTE: 1 JUL 16 was the start of the battle of the Somme.
Some went off on carrying party with ammo, grub and water. They had a
rough time. Took them 7 hours to do journey there and back.
All of us started off again to position in reserve trenches. Arrived just
after Infantry had gone over the top. Dreadful and ghastly sights. Can't
say any more but very appalling. Rescued some wounded during the
night who had been lying out for three days. One fellow had been buried
up to his neck for three days and wounded, was magnificent, only asked
for a fag.
11
11/7/16
20/7/16
23/7/16
29/7/16
4/8/16
15/8/16
19/8/16
28/8/16
10/9/16
17/9/16
Next day it rained, soon had 4 or 5 inches in trench and got covered with
mud, unwashed, 5 days beard. As not issued with shrapnel helmets I
picked one up from a dead man.
Note: I had this helmet all the rest of war and kept it till 2 nd WW when I
wore it with Home Guard.
I had my cheek grazed. Camped in open field in bivoacs. Don't worry,
feel we are doing our bit at last. In the best of spirits.
Rations very bad, got 2 loaves today for 30 men. Today sent party
burying the dead, not a very savoury job as have been lying about a long
while. Some men on mounted police. Weather atrocious, horses standing
up to their hocks in mud. If one rolls gets so plastered cannot even
recognise it. Infantry magnificent, go into trenches singing, joking and
smoking. Might think they were going to picture theatre. German
trophies, helmets, bayonets, rifles to be had for trouble of picking up, but
nowhere to carry them.
Relieved from line and back where we started from. Had a topping bathe
in the river and got some clean clothes. One fellow just come back from
our last camp, says it was bombed by Taube. First German plane we
have seen for weeks. Our fellows brought down all Jerry kite balloons on
1/7/16. Quiet here after line which is a terrible sight, nothing but ruins,
trenches, dug outs etc.
Copy letter sent to Uncle and Aunt, with further description of battle of
1/7/16.
We don't lack for munitions now. Mountains of shells of every sort,
stacked everywhere. When in trenches walking about on live bombs.
Seen some fellows with shell shock, crying like kids and shivering, had
to be strapped to stretchers.
Hard at work on new "profession of lumberman”. Ride to wood and cut
underwood and bind with wire into 12 ft fascines which are used for
foundations of roads.
Weather beautiful. Today 2nd Anniversary of outbreak of war. Dust on
roads frightful. Our billet on main road and thousands of lorries are
passing day and night.
My troop gone up the line, but machine gunners kept behind for training.
A bit of luck, now paid Lance Corporal extra 4d a day. The leaning
statue on Albert Cathedral has been knocked down. The locals think that
when that happened the war will end. Hope it comes true!!
Don't send me armoured waistcoat, nowhere to carry it and don't suppose
any good. Troop just back from Police job, and very glad.
Harvest getting on well here, every man, woman and child in fields from
dawn to dusk. Got a bad tooth, went to doctor who sent me to Field
Ambulance, but they haven't done anything, dentist comes once a week,
54 cases last time, I was nearly last , they stuck a piece of cotton wool in
it and said come next week. Waited 5 hours for that.
Regt. Race meeting (see Race Card in box). Our Squadron did well,
three winners, three seconds and two 3rds. All excellently arranged.
Natural grand stand. There was a Totalisator and plenty of amateur
bookies. Good Band. When I weighed out was surprised to find I only
was 10 Stone 12 Lbs (dropped 9 Lbs).
Packed up and ready to move any minute. New invention used at front
(Tanks). Gave Fritz a shock, could tell you a lot about it but won't pass
Censor.
12
23/9/16
14/10/16
28/10/16
3/11/16
11/11/16
19/11/16
24/11/16
3/12/16
8/12/16
18/12/16
24/12/16
4/1/17
12/1/17
22/1/17
German prisoners at work on roads a common sight, what I have seen
are a fine lot of men. I can't see much of "old men and youths" that you
read about in the papers. Spoke to Sergeant in a Saxon Regt. He thought
war wou1d soon finish and be a draw.
"Stood to" for 3 days. but nothing happened. Granted 6d a day
proficiency pay, now drawing the enormous sum of 2/- (two shillings) a
day.
Beginning to look like winter. Concert at the Canteen but I was on stable
guard.
Got 2 fingers poisoned, so writing worse than usual.Expect got a scratch
in wood. Very wet, a sea of mud. Built a fine mess to hold 140 men.
Roofing in standings for horses. Troop still on police duty.
Fingers still bound up - got cut in woods on the rusty wire. Weather
abominable. Nothing but rain, mud appalling.
Our fellows just back from advanced Prisoners Cage.
The mud terrible, up to knees, wagons have to have 20 horses to
get along at all. If any fall have to be shot right away. Still making
fascines, must have cleared every available wood round here.
Hands still bound up.
Hands still bandaged, two new places.
Don't be alarmed at somebody’s else’s writing, got blood
poisoning. Secretary says he is striking.
In hospital with hands and arm. Went to Field Ambulance last
week and they sent me to Casualty Clearing Station. Stopped there
2 days and then on train to seaside (Boulougne), went to 14th
General Hospital, 15 hours on train - eight sitting with trench feet
and leg and arm wounds, two on stretchers with pneumonia, rotten
journey. Got the wind up as Boulougne is amputation hospital, but
now in 25th General (Wimereux) which is skin hospital. A bed
with sheets. English sister. First bed for 21 months. Decked up in
blue uniform with red tie.
Nearly right again. Plenty of grub and clean clothes, next best
thing to home.
Leaving here for Base Detail Camp, stopped 2 days, doing
fatigues. Waited 4 hours at station. Left at 6 pm. 36 ton truck.
Stuck there all night till 9 pm. next night, 29 hours.
Arrived at Rouen. Found Warren who used to be apprenticed to
Daddy. He runs a Crown and Anchor board and has tons of money.
Borrowed 100 francs and managed to get decent dinner in town.
No cash, high and dry on the rocks. There is a Major Misa here,
friend of Daddy, was introduced and from him to a Major who
runs the Cavalry horse lines. He gave me job of exercising officers
chargers. Now miss all parades and fatigues and don't even have to
groom the horses. Don't mind if I stay here for duration.
Plenty of Canteens, picture theatres, but don't think can get home
leave from here.
Wrote to O.C. Squadron and asked him to apply for me back.
Thanks for money. Feeling very dicky, cold and neuralgia.
Weather appalling snow, sleet, and frost. Saw Bombardier Wells
give a boxing exhibition.
Still at Rouen.
13
2/2/17
Arrived safely back with the boys, but moved off immediately to a
fresh village (Ail1y-sur-Somme) about 15 miles from Amiens. In
billets. Freezing hard. French people have no coal.
9/2/17
Managed to get a bed at an estaminet (small café )for tremendous sum of
1/2 franc per night. Boche busy bombing Amiens.
16/2/17 Leave stopped again. Some fellows just back from home say arrangements
very bad. 2 or 3 days getting to England and seven days getting back. Grub
poor, bought 6 pork chops which cost 13 francs (nearly 10/-).
23/2/17 Moved to Warfusee further up the line on road from Amiens to St. Quentin.
In French army huts. Up to our necks in mud and huts filthy.
Go to railhead and unload a coal train, all as black as niggers. Unloaded a
supply train today.
01/3/17
60 men in quarantine with measles, isolated for 14 days.
10/3/17 Supposed to be a fruit issue, turned out to be oranges, three men to one
orange. Still in quarantine. Hear Fritz is on the run. Please sent some
Harrisons Pomade, supposed to be very good for lodgers (lice) of whom we
have plenty.
17/3/17 Several fresh cases of measles. Going through course of Cavalry training,
looks as though we may be “up and doing” before long. Promoted Acting
Corporal, get extra 6d a day (now 2/6 – two shillings and sixpence). Got
new kind of gas mask.
25/3/17 Fritz has done a bolt. Moved off early on 19/3/17 and after 3 hours reached
river Somme in a snowstorm (Brie).
Went right through our old lines and No Mans Land, nothing but shell holes
and trenches. Got to river (Somme) just as our fellows finished building
bridge (Brie).
First over, leading horses, now in front, loaded our rifles, moved up about 3
miles, bivouacked in hedge, snowstorm, no blankets. Started off very early,
I was on Officers patrol (kind of scouting party). Got fired on about 11.30
am. no damage. Made two more attempts but got fired on. On the way back
5 Taubes (German aircraft) swooped on us firing machine guns, no damage.
Took shelter in wood. Next day moved off to attack village and had a bit of
a scrap, had one or two wounded and had to retire.
Note: We were going to charge village, Vermand, but blinding snowstorm,
so dismounted for action. Officer next to me said "Corporal this is all very
well but getting my breeches muddy". He was always turned out like a band
box. This is our seventh day on our own.
Every village burnt to the ground, and still smouldering.
Jerry cut down all trees and hedges, every cross-road and bridges blown
up. Great craters 50 ins deep in roads. All men 15 to 60 been taken away,
only old men, kids and women with babies left.
This place "Vraignes" only place left standing, all inhabitants collected
here. When we rode in they thought at first it was Uhlans (German cavalry)
returning. When found British were fearfully bucked, turned out and lined
roads laughing and smiling. They had raked out some French flags. Had a
good sleep with my boots off, first time for 6 days. Big tuck box turned up
for me from Army and Navy stores. It had been to Gallipoli and back and
full of Xmas stuff, Turkey etc. It had been either 15 or 16 months on the
way.
26/ to 30/3/17 Field Post Cards “I’m quite well.”
31/3/17 Now Full Corporal. Infantry turned up all enjoying open country instead of
trenches. Not a living animal left except cats, who are so scared and won't
come near you.
14
3/4/17
9/4/17
4/5/17
8/5/17
17/5/17
20/5/17
3/6/17
6/6/17
9/6/17
18/6/17
26/6/17
3/7/17
All inhabitants moved out by ambulances as Jerry chucking a few over.
Pathetic sight to see all old girls being taken away from all they owned in
the world. Commandeered furniture, and pots and pans and found some
flour, so fairly comfortable.
Field PC.
Had to take party of men back to Coast to get new re-mounts, so been
travelling for 5 days. Promoted Acting Sergt. Got 40 new horses and
saddles. Had to ride 75 miles (3 days).
Went to big town (in ruins). The railway already running, we helped to lay
rails. Pay now 2/2 (2 shillings and two pence) a day. Wealth!!
No letters because I suddenly got leave after 27 months.
P.C. at rest camp at Folkestone.
Arrived back with Squadron after 14 hours in rest camp at Boulogne, went
by train to another rest camp and got stuck there for 3 nights. Walked about
7 miles to where we had left the boys, but found they had gone. Found
them next morning.
Our horses have been in the wars. On an exercise ride we went close to an
observation balloon and suddenly they all went mad, rearing and kicking,
couldn't make out what was wrong. Suddenly discovered it was some stuff
the R.F.C. (Royal Flying Corp) made gas with, it got in their heels, all raw
and burnt out. Mostly lame.
Moved back about 5 miles. Put in charge of all 4 Hotchkiss guns. Lovely
clover and grass here, with nobody to cut it. Turn out horses on it - knee
halters.
Found a friend from office at Reigate. He is C.O. of Cavalry Corps supply
column. Took me out to splendid dinner and brought me back again.
Went bathing in a stream. Got a new mare, bright bay with 2 white socks,
jumps like a stag, and full of life.
Nothing much in it.
Going through a fortnights Cavalry training. Lovely weather, all getting
brown.
Another Sergt and I applied for 5 days leave in Paris.
Just returned from Paris. Had a fine time. Stayed at Hotel Marlboro. Baths
and lift, got all meals in cafes, went to Folies Begere, Olympia Theatre etc.,
also Tuileries, Arc de Triumph, Bois de Boulogne and Versailles. Paris is
much more free and livelier than London. Tons of taxis and grub. Wouldn't
think there was a war on. Also Allies there, Russians, Portugese, Italians,
Serbians, Belgians, Yankees - got back today.
Note: Our pass had written orders to report to Military Police on arrival reached Paris very early morning and went to Police who were all in bed
and didn't want to know us. Told us to come back, but we said only got 5
days and not going to waste it running about after them. On last night at
Folies Bergere got arrested and put on next train.
Charge followed up to Squadron:
(1) Failing to obey written orders
(2) Telling a falsehood to M.P.
(3) Absent without leave.
Appeared before O.C. who asked if we had enjoyed ourselves.
We said “Yes”, so he said he was glad and we needn’t worry any more.
What a man!!
(Heavily censored) Back with Corps School, teaching Infantry Officers to
ride. Have a job to keep a straight face. Most amusing.
15
16/7/17
26/7/17
3/8/17
10/8/17
16/8/17
24/8/17
1/9/17
3/9/17
9/9/17
12/9/17
18/9/17
30/9/17
6/10/17
12/10/17
19/10/17
15/11/17
30/11/17
8/12/17
15/12/17
22/12/17
29/12/17
6/1/18
Some of our best horses taken away. Bomb instructor unfortunately killed.
Begin to wonder whether we shall be dismounted.
Just back from South of France (Marseilles) where we took our horses. All
our saddles returned to store. My name sent forward to Corps H.Q. as
suitable for instructor on Hotckiss Gun. We were 10 days in train. Journey
all through the Rhone Valley. A horse kicked bottom of truck out. Had to
get out in pouring rain and push him back as legs dragging on railway line.
Moved right back out of War Zone to village (Wombercourt, Nr. Hesdin)
not far from G.H.Q.(General HQ) This is delightful spot. Indulging in
salads, greens and all sorts of fruit and vegetables. First time for months
that have seen a standing building.
Send some money, broke after Paris, Marseilles etc.
Hear that all our horses which we took to Marseilles have been lost as ship
torpedoed. New O.C. Canteen and Sergeants Mess Caterer. Wondering
whether to try and get Commission. Hang on for a bit!!
Still hanging about.
Left Squadron, now at Machine Gun School for 14 days instruction on
Lewis Gun and then 14 days on Hotckiss. If pass out believe I shall be
Instructor (Lewis Gun School, Le Touquet). Everyone else in Squadron
transferred to "gravel crushers". I am very lucky. Went all over France to
get here.
17 Cavalry men here, all Sergeants except 3. Can get passes to seaside,
plenty of canteens etc. Promoted Full Seargeant. Big comb out taking
place. All Class A men have been sent to Infantry.
Squadron arrived at Bull Ring. Etaples not far from here.
Training for 9 solid hours a day.
Fritz dropped bombs on hospital near here.
Went to big International Jumping Show, Portuguese, Belgium and
British. Going into the Staff Sergeants Mess.
Put on strength of School. Also teach revolver, German and French M.G
(Machine Gun). Very good Mess with a bar, but don't sell spirits
Classes start tomorrow, each one a fortnight. C. in C. (Sir Douglas Haig)
here yesterday to witness demonstration of attack on strong point. Live
ammo and bombs. He was supposed to be pleased.
New rates of pay, now get 3/5 a day.
About 50 Officers and 400 men here at a time.
Second class started.
Seen a lot of "khaki" girls about driving ambulances, telephone exchange,
scullery maids, cook etc.
Some instructors gone to give lessons to Americans.
Got a squad of officers this course. Some of the staff have got up a
Theatrical Coy. Gave first show (see Programme in letter). Excellent show
specially the "girls" who looked most natural.
Xmas Cards made on the premises (see 1 loose in box).
Very cold, even the sea shore frozen. Had photo of cavalry instructors
taken and enclose it (see Photos).
Went to Holy Communion on Xmas day. Sergeants wait on men, nearly
200 sat down. In afternoon ladies at Y.M.C.A. gave a Xmas tree, every
man had a present. Sergeant's Mess dinner in evening (see Menu
enclosed), almost ashamed to send it.
Lively New Year's evening in the Mess, some Yankee officers came in
and set things alight.
16
12/1/18
Terrible blizzard, 6 ins of snow. Worrying about the food shortage
in England. Fellows just back from leave in the Midlands highly
indignant at state of affairs. Fellows in munitions factories getting
£15 per week.
19/1/18
Rations short owing to weather, good old Bully and biscuit.
28/1/18
Weather cleared up.
2/2/18
Fellows who have been here since 1914 dished out with Mons Medal.
9/2/18
Went to hospital at Etaples and saw old friend who was wounded. Lena
Ashwell’s concert party at Y.M.C.A.
12/2/18
Rumours of being moved.
1/3/18
(Must have had leave). Got stuck in rest camp at Folkestone, good
crossing, arrived back at school. Snowing and very cold.
8/3/18
Moving tomorrow. Going to various corps schools to teach Hotckiss and
anti-aircraft sights.
11/3/18
Arrived VIII Corps School, in little village. 29th Div in this Corps.
18/3/18
Splendid Mess, good grub, teaching A.S.C
30/3/18 Shifted again to 8th Corps A.A. School, 21 Squadron R.A.F (not far from
Poperinge).
Some of School staff sent up the line. No Mess, grub very poor.
4/4/18
Jerry doing too well. School shut down and men gone back to units. Fritz
has been shelling Paris.
10/4/18 Happened to hear the Division our boys went to, were sent back from
Italy. Found them marching along road. They had a rough time, many
killed and wounded. They have all lost all their kit. Got into Sergeant's
Mess.
16/4/18
Arrived back at Lewis Gun School after rotten journey.
19/4/18 Train came through outskirts of big battle, guns firing over it. Tons of new
refugees. Passengers on train included W.A.A.C , German Prisoners,
Chinese labourers. While I was away from this School, it was formed into
a battalion, all N.C.O's and Officers.
Took 64 Lewis Guns with them. Didn't get into action but spent a week
digging trenches and then sent back.
1/5/18
Arrived at No. 3. Coy, 2nd Divisional H.Q, after long tiresome journey.
Incorrect orders, 5 days on the train from one end of the line to the other.
Original orders said 2nd Cavalry Divisional train, turns out it should have
been 2nd Canadian.
5/5/18
Shifted again to 6th Corp and School, nice little village, school in
Chateau.
10/5/18
Beautiful spot, grass green, trees in leaf.
19/5/18
Still same place.
29/5/18
Ditto
5/6/18
Ditto.
11/6/18
Moved again to Cavalry Corps reinforcement camp (Abbevi11e).
Instructing class of officers.
16/6/18. Posted from Surrey Yeomanry to Bedford Yeomanry. Better for me
as former now Infantry, and latter still with cavalry. Jerry raiding
place, inhabitants got the wind up, shops shut. Flee to the woods at
night (Forest of Crecy).
23/6/18 Shifting camp farther away from Town on the hills, digging
trenches.
30/6/18 Had to have a tooth out. Dentist made a mess of it, bits of tooth still
coming out.
14/7/18 Jerry still giving us a "hatell every night.
17
24/7/18
28/7/18
4/8/18
8/8/18
25/8/18
8/9/18
14/9/18
23/9/18
29/9/18
6/10/18
16/10/18
22/10/18
24/10/18
02/11/18
10/11/18
14/11/18
20/11/18
22/11/18
Made Brigade Orderly Sergeant. Raining heavens hard. Tent leaks
like a sieve.
Large number of re-enforcements come in.
Forth year of the War. Weather abominable, raining cats and dogs.
Now been re-posted to the 2nd Dragoon Guards - looks as if I shall
dodge the P.B.I. (Poor Bloody Infantry)
Very busy sending horses and men up the line. (The cavalry had
been in action just South of Arras at Monchy–le-Preux and lost very
heavily).
Put on permanent staff of camp which is a good job, won't have to
go up as a re-enforcement. Harvest in full swing, good crop.
Isn't the news grand. Thousands of prisoners arriving here. Some are
quite young lads, some soldiers less than a fortnight and never fired
a shot. Some are big fellows.
Jerry not been over lately, think he is otherwise engaged.
Busy with re-enforcements. Mostly young chaps who have not been
out before. Still plenty of prisoners coming back. Got collared for
job at the Court Martial room.
Sending a little charm which are all the go here, two little dolls
made of wool. Their names are Rintintin and Ninette. Proof against
bombs and other treasures.
Been to splendid concert (see Programme)
Believe we've got Fritz groggy at last. Men coming in from all over the
place. Fix them up with equipment and horses and hurry them off again.
Eggs here 5d and 5.5d each, very dear.
Been shifting camp, got too far way from the front.
We are in a "delightful" spot, right in the middle of the old battlefields. Just
a howling wilderness, smothered with old shells, guns etc, not to mention
graves.
In tents, mud appalling 5" to 6" deep. Supposed to be a village here, but
nothing but a few bricks. (Note we had to move our tent, it began to hum,
discovered there was an Aussie buried under it).
Got a Jerry machine gun and having a little practice.
News marvellous.
Moved back to G.H.Q. Lewis Gun School. Don't know why, but it doesn't
matter. Looks as though the Show will be over. Frightful journey to get
here, took 36 hours. Train stopped 8 hours in one station.
We heard the wonderful news on 11/11/18. It doesn't seem possible. We all
went to Church Service in the evening. I was surprised to find myself still
alive. Thank God it is over at last.
Menu Card of Farewell Dinner at School. What a Banquet!
Demobilization looks as though it will take a good long time. Glad to hear
I have been elected a Professional Associate of the Surveyors Institution.
Now going to classes in Typewriting, mathematics, Shorthand etc. I'm
leaning Esperanto. Expect to be sent to the Regiment in Germany, just to
complete my little tour.
11/12/18 Hope to get leave for Xmas.
28/12/18 Disembodied at Wimbledon.
10/7/20
Enlisted in the reformed Surrey Yeomanry to give it a start.
18
10/4/22
Discharged
May 1940 Joined L.D.V (Local Defence Volunteers) on first day on which
Volunteers were called for and served until Home Guard stood
down. Rank Lieutenant.
Written in May 1972
19