X550/3/WD/1607

War Diary for July 1916 1 Jul 1916 - support trenches near Maricourt During the night of June 30th the Bn. which was in support formed up in the trenches of Z.1. Subsector as shown in Operation Order No.76. The early morning of July 1st was hazy and from our positions we could not see the German positions. At 7.30 a.m. (ZERO Hour) the general advance commenced, led by the 17th and 20th Bns Kings Liverpool Regt, the 2nd Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment being in support and the 19th Bn. Kings Liverpool Regiment in Reserve. The Bombardment has been so successful that very little resistance from Rifle Fire took place, but most of the casualties were sustained from Shell Fire. The Headquarters of the Battalion were in the Chateau dug-outs during the preliminary advance. By 8 a.m. the German 1st Line Trenches were taken (including FAVIERE and SILESIA fire trenches) the leading Battalions pushing on to CASEMENT TRENCH - ALT ALLEY - GLATZ ALLEY. B and C Companies commanded by Captain H.A.W.PEARSE and Captain R.O.WYNNE respectively followed 100 yards in rear of the attacking Battalions and established themselves in FAVIERE SUPPORT and SILESIA SUPPORT trenches whilst the Artillery bombarded DUBLIN TRENCH. A & D Coys commanded by Captain C.G.TYLER and captain L.F.BEAL respectively, advanced and occupied FAVIERE SUPPORT - SILESIA SUPPORT and B & C Coys. supported the advance to DUBLIN TRENCH occupying CASEMENT TRENCH. At 12.30 p.m., the 20th Bn. Kings Liverpool Regiment assaulted and took the BRIQUETERIE. Besides supporting the advance of the Brigade the Battalion had special duties allotted to it. 2/Lt. A.M.B.GAZE, 2/Lt. A.Young and 60 Other Ranks of D.Coy. followed the 3rd wave of the attacking Battalions for the purpose of cleaning up the German dug-outs and trenches. These were split up into small parties of an N.C.O. & 5 men, each told off to work up defined sections of enemy trench. This was successfully accomplished and about 300 prisoners and 4 Machine Guns were taken, this work completed, the men rejoined their company. No.1, 2, 5 & 6 Strong Points as on Map Appendix A were made by the Bn., under heavy shell fire during the day and night. At 8.15 a.m. Bn. H.Q., moved up into LEXDON STREET in our old front line trenches and remained there during the operations of July 1st to 4th. 2/Lt. R.F.C.BALLARD rejoined from hospital. 2/Lts H.G.FYSON and J.B.PRIMROSE-WELLS proceeded from Reserve of Officers to 89th Bde H.Q. for duty. 2 Jul 1916 - trenches around Maricourt All positions won were consolidated in spite of 4 Counter Attacks. At 5 p.m. on 1st July, Orders received from Brigade to withdraw 2 Companies as Divisional Reserve into our old front line trenches. "A" & "D" Companies were withdrawn at 10 p.m., 2nd July. A new trench was dug by the Battalion running East from GERMANS WOOD to the BRIQUETERIE ROAD under heavy shell fire, this trench was also wired and named BEDFORD TRENCH. 2nd Lieut.A.L.GORDON proceeded to join Battalion from Reserve of Officers at Transport. 3 Jul 1916 Further consolidation of positions. Positions intermittently shelled by the Enemy. At 2 p.m. "A" & "D" Companies relieved "B" & "C" Companies - changing places. At 3 p.m. Orders received to send garrisons of 1 Platoon each to garrison No.1 & 4 STRONG POINTS just to WEST of GLATZ REDOUBT. These were sent from "B" Company under 2nd Lieutenant L.H.WALKER and "C" Company No.2 Strong Point under an N.C.O. Orders were received to dig a communication trench from DUBLIN TRENCH to the BRIQUETERIE ROAD end. This was commenced and completed from S.4.d.3.1 to about S.4.d.3.6. as shown on Map Appendix "A". 4 Jul 1916 Further consolidation. Positions well consolidated and actively shelled throughout the day. 2nd Lieutenant L.DOLMAN wounded. At 10 p.m. the Battalion was relieved by the 3rd SOUTH AFRICAN INFANTRY, the Battalion then withdrew to the BOIS-de-TAILLES for a rest, the last platoon arriving at 6.35 a.m. on 5th July. The Casualties fro m1st July to 4th July were: - 2nd Lieutenant W.E.BOULTON - Shell Shock - 1.7.16. 2nd Lieutenant L.DOLMAN - Wounded - 4.7.16. OTHER RANKS: - KILLED 7 MISSING 8 x WOUNDED 56 SHELL SHOCK 5 WOUNDED AT DUTY 2 Total 78 x 1 since found to have been killed. 3 since found to have been Wounded. 3 since found suffering from Shell Shock. 1 still missing. 5 Jul 1916 - Bois des Tailles Battalion at rest in the BOIS-de-TAILLES Ref: Map ALBERT (Combined Sheet) 1.40,000 K.18.a. Casualties NIL. 6 Jul 1916 Battalion at rest in the BOIS-de-TAILLES. Casualties NIL. 7 Jul 1916 Battalion at rest in the BOIS-de-TAILLES - Rain all day. At 5 p.m. Orders received to STAND BY. 2nd Lieutenant H.J.BRICKELL returned from leave. A draft of 6 Other Ranks joined from Base including C.S.M. BLISS. Casualties NIL. 8 Jul 1916 - Billon Wood Battalion at rest in the BOIS-de-TAILLES. 10 a.m. Church Service. At 1 p.m. Orders received to be ready to move at half hours notice. At 7.5 p.m. Battalion left BOIS-de-TAILLES and proceeded to BILLON WOOD and bivouacked at the SOUTHERN Edge. the following Officers remained behind with transport as reserve of officers: - Major J.W.H.T.DOUGLAS, Captain E.S.M.POYNTZ. Lieut.N.V.DABELL, Lieut W.WHITE, Lieut.J.T.COE, 2/Lieut L.A.L.FINK, 2/Lieut.T.J.PEMBERTON, 2/Lieut.H.G.FYSON, 2/Lieut.A.M.B.GAZE, 2/Lieut.A.YOUNG, 2/Lieut.F.HAGUE. Casualties NIL. 9 Jul 1916 - trenches near Maricourt. Battalion in Bivouac in BILLON WOOD. At 9.30 p.m. the Battalion moved up into trenches in Old Z.1 Subsector with Headquarters in COBHAM STREET. 10 Jul 1916 Battalion in Z.1 trenches. Captain H.A.W.PEARSE sprained his ankle and had to go back to the Transport Lines. Lieut.H.A.CHAMEN then took over command of "B" Company. At 5 p.m. Orders were received that the Battalion were to attack TRONES WOOD at 3.27 a.m. on 11th JUly and if possible entrench the Eastern side of the wood. The information handed over by the 90th Brigade was that the wood was only lightly held by the enemy. Two Battalions had each previously made two separate attacks on the wood, but had suffered severely and had been unable to establish a footing in the wood. On the night of 10th July the Battalion occupied our old Front Line Trenches of Z.1 Subsector and at 11 p.m. moved up the BRIQUETERIE ROAD to the SUNKEN ROAD just East of the BRIQUETERIE, which was the position of deployment for the attack. 11 Jul 1916 - Trones Wood The Battalion were in position by 1.30 a.m. formed up in lines of 1/2 Companies with an interval of five paces between the men, and a distance of 150 yards between platoons, in the following order: - "A" Company commanded by Captain C.G.TYLER "B" Company commanded by Lieutenant H.A.CHAMEN "C" Company commanded by Captain L.F.BEAL "D" Company commanded by Captain R.O.WYNNE. Orders had been received that the Battalion was to enter the wood at 3.27 a.m., so the leading line commenced to advance at 3.10 a.m. towards the South eastern edge of TRONE SWOOD. It being almost dark, the advance was not observed until the leading line was 400 yards from the wood, when enemy Machine Guns opened fire from Points Z and R marked on Sketch (Appendix "B"). The enemy quickly got their artillery to work and the Battalion suffered many casualties entering the WOOD, but by 3.45 a.m. the whole Battalion had gained the inside of the WOOD, but owing to Machine Gun and shell fire, had entered rather too much at the SOUTHERN END. Owing to the denseness of the undergrowth, it was not possible to see more than 4 yards in front of you, so the Companies had great difficulty in keeping touch. Lieut.R.B.GIBSON was killed entering the wood and 2nd Lieut.F.E.PLUMMER wounded and it was found that the WOOD was strongly held and full of Trenches and Dug-outs. After much fighting inside the wood, part of "A" & "B" Companies, reached the S.E. edge of the wood and dug themselves in as shewn on Sketch (Appendix "B"). "C" and part of "D" Company dug in along the S.W. edge of the Wood. At 4.20 a.. 11th July Captain L.F.BEAL with about 27 men of "D" Company and 13 men under Lieut.H.A.CHAMEN of "B" Company reached the N.E. edge of the Wood and commenced to dig in. As no British Troops were holding the Northern end of the wood, this party became isolated and the enemy were seen advancing from the direction of LONGUEVAL. Captain BEAl finding himself isolated and nearly surrounded withdrew into LONGUEVAL ALLEY about 9 a.m. After several messages had been sent to Capt BEAL, without success, due to the enemy's barrage, a message eventually got to him with orders to bring his party back via BERNAFAY WOOD and join up with Capt.WYNNE ("C" Company) which was entrenched in the S.E. corner of the WOOD. This was done at 5 p.m. 11th July. Great difficulty was experienced organising in the wood owing to heavy casualties and the denseness of the undergrowth but the Battalion managed to hold its own, and by 7 p.m. on evening of July 11th "A" & "B" Companies and "C" and 1/2 "D" Companys [sic] had dug themselves In on the S.E. side and S.W. side of the wood (all Companies much reduced by Casualties). Whilst the men were digging In, strong patrols worked the interior of the wood collecting stragglers and bombing the enemy in their Trenches and Dug-outs, and accounted for a great number. "A" & "B" Companies were leading Companies in the Advance at 3.10 a.m. and were particularly unfortunate in losing many N.C.O's on entering the wood, including the C.S.M. of "A" Company (C.S.M.GALE). 2nd Lieut.F.E.PLUMMER was wounded just outside the wood. Both Companies much reduced by Casualties, worked their way across to the S.E. corner of the Wood and commenced to dig IN. At about 6 a.m. 11th July Captain C.G.TYLER discovered he was too far SOUTH of his allotted position, so they moved up the Wood further North.. At 8 a.m. 11th July 2nd Lieut.L.H.FOX left the patrol and went on ahead, but did not return, it is presumed he was taken prisoner. At 11.30 a.m. 11th July Captain C.G.TYLER, 2nd Lieut.L.H.WALKER and 2nd Lieut.D.P.CROSS and a strong patrol of about 40 men endeavoured to work their way Northwards up the Eastern edge of the wood, but they encountered strong opposition from a "Strong Point" marked "P" on (Appendix "B") where the GUILLEMONT Road enters the wood. Captain C.G.TYLER was severely wounded and ordered the party to withdraw to their Trench which they did. Captain Tyler could unfortunately not be brought IN. This trench was held against several counter attacks, but at 10 p.m., the enemy surrounded and bombed the trench from three sides, so 2nd Lieut.L.H.WALKER who was in command ordered the remainder of "A" & "B" Company to withdraw by Southern end of TRONES WOOD and make their way back to the BRIQUETERIE along the Sunken Road. This was done successfully the party rejoining Headquarters at about 11 p.m., 11th July. "C" Company under Captain R.O.WYNNE were the last Company to cross during the advance. They were to entrench on the Western Side of the Wood, just North and South of the Tram Line running through the wood. The Company entered the wood by TRONES ALLEY and established itself there, one platoon working up towards the tramline. This Platoon was held up by the enemy near Point "H" as shewn on Map (Appendix "B") and forced to withdraw. Three more attempts were made during the morning, but without success, so Capt.Wynne decided to entrench where he was. He endeavoured to get touch will all Companies on the Eastern edge of the wood but could only get touch with "A" Company. Other patrols got held up by a "Strong Point" at "K" as shown on Sketch. At about 6 p.m. 11th July Capt.L.F.BEAL with his party of "B" & "D" Companies joined "C" Company. At about 6.30 p.m., one Company of the 19th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment arrived to clear the southern part of the Wood, but they lost touch and got badly handled by the Strong Points at "K" and "P". At about 10 p.m. "A" & "B" Coys were forced to withdraw, but "C" & "D" Coys held out against all Counter Attacks. Lieutenant J.W.HURRELL admitted to Hospital sick. 12 Jul 1916 Lieutenant W.WHITE and 2nd Lieut.L.A.L.FINK joined Battalion from Reserve of Officers at Transport Lines. Lieutenant W.WHITE takes over command of "A" Company. At about 1 a.m. 2 Companies of the 17th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment were ordered to occupy the Southern edge of wood and join up with "C" & "D" Coys. This was successfully done and the Southern part of the wood was successfully held until relieved by the 7th Bn.ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT (55th Brigade) on the morning on [sic] the 13th at about 1 a.m. in spite of many hostile bombing attacks. the casualties for this engagement were: - Lieutenant R.B.GIBSON Killed. Captain C.G.TYLER Wounded and Missing. 2nd Lieut.L.H.FOX Missing. 2nd Lieut.F.E.PLUMMER Wounded. 2nd Lieut.H.J.BRICKELL Wounded. 239 OTHER RANKS. 13 Jul 1916 - Bois des Tailles At 1 a.m. Battalion withdrew from TRONES WOOD to our Old trenches in Z.1. Subsector, with dispositions as follows. "A" Company from HEAD STREET to A.P.3. "B" Company from HEAD STREET to Left of Z.1. (TYLER STREET & NEW TRENCH) "C" Company from COBHAM STREET - MAULDON STREET and CULVER STREET as far as the Bend. "D" Company Remainder of CULVER STREET and MERSEY STREET. Headquarters in LEXDON STREET. At 10 a.m. the Battalion withdrew to the BOIS-de-TAILLES arriving about 12.45 p.m. 14 Jul 1916 - Vaux-sur-Somme Battalion in Camp at the BOIS-de-TAILLES. Ref: Map ALBERT "K" 18.a. Battalion left at 10 a.m. for billets ay VAUX-SUR-SOMME arriving at 12.45 p.m. 15 Jul 1916 Billets VAUX - about 10 miles east of AMIENS. 89th Brigade inspected by Divisional Commander (major General J.M.S.SHEA, C.B., D.S.O.) at 9 a.m. 2 O.R. accidentally wounded by a bomb explosion in the Transport Lines whilst detonating bombs. Sick wastage week ending 15th NIL. 16 Jul 1916 Billets VAUX - Battalion at Baths. 2 p.m. Church Parade. Lt.Colonel H.S.POYNTZ proceeds on leave. Major J.W.H.T.DOUGLAS takes over command of the Battalion. 17 Jul 1916 Billets VAUX. Battalion at Training. 2nd Lieutenant H.C.LOVELY, 4th Bn.Bedfordshire Regt, rejoined Battalion from England and posted to "A" Coy. Information received that the following immediate Awards had been made for gallantry and devotion to duty. The MILITARY CROSS. 6887 R.Q.M.Sgt. F.H.OSBORNE. THE MILITARY MEDAL 16483 Corporal G.Kelly. 9178 Private L.Fynn. 18 Jul 1916 Billets VAUX. Battalion at Training. Lieutenant & Adjutant J.W.Hurrell rejoined from Hospital. 100 Other Ranks joined from Base. 19 Jul 1916 - Happy Valley near Ovillers Billets VAUX. Battalion proceeded on a Route March at 9 a.m. At 9.45 a.m. Orders received that 89th Brigade would march to HAPPY VALLEY. Battalion recalled from Route March and left VAUX at 1.10 p.m. marching via SOMME VALLEY - ETINEHEM - BRAY to HAPPY VALLEY where the Battalion Bivouacked for the night. 20 Jul 1916 - The Citadel near Albert Battalion left HAPPY VALLEY at 10.31 a.m. and arrived at F.15.b. ref Map ALBERT (Combined Sheet) 1/40,000 near "THE CITADEL" at 11.15 a.m. where the Battalion Bivouacked. At 12 noon the Commanding Officer inspected the last draft of 100 men. Lieutenant J.T.COE takes over command of "B" Company from Lieutenant H.A.CHAMEN. 4 Other Ranks 2/Bedf.R., joined from 18th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment. 21 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. A Draft of 47 O.R. NORTHAMPTONSHIRE Regiment joined the Battalion. 22 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. Commanding Officer inspected Battalion at 10.30 a.m. 1 Other Rank joined from 1st Battalion. Sick Wastage week ending 22nd July 7 Other Ranks. At 3.15 p.m. orders received that the Brigade would attack between GUILLEMONT and FALFEMONT FARM tomorrow. At 4.40 p.m. orders received that Operations were postponed for tomorrow. 23 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at %.15.b. At 10.20 a.m. orders received to be ready to move at half an hours notice. At 12.30 p.m. orders received that unless anything unusual happened the Brigade would not move tonight. Lt.Colonel POYNTZ, H.S., rejoined from Leave. 24 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. Lt.Colonel H.S.POYNTZ resumes command of the Battalion. At 2.55 p.m. Orders received that operations postponed 48 hours. 25 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. During night of 25th/26th "A", "B" & "C" Companies were employed as carrying parties and digging trenches N.E. of TALUS BOISE. 26 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. 27 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. 2nd Lieutenant H.H.HARMAN, 32nd Bn.Royal Fusiliers joined and posted to "A" Company. 15 Other Ranks, 2nd Bn.Bedfordshire Regiment joined from 18th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment. 28 Jul 1916 Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. Captain T.E.AMYOT, R.A.M.C., admitted to Hospital sick. Captain E.TAWSE R.A.M.C. attached to Battalion. 5 Other Ranks joined from Base. 29 Jul 1916 - just south of Bernafay Wood Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. (CITADEL). Attack on German Second Line position on July 30th 1916 by the 89th Brigade. OBJECTIVE The front allotted for the attack by the 89th Brigade was as shown on Sketch (Appendix "C"). "A" Company Commanded by Lieutenant W.WHITE. "B" Company Commanded by Lieutenant J.T.COE until wounded and then by Captain E.S.M.POYNTZ. "C" Company Commanded by Captain R.O.WYNNE. "D" Company Commanded by Captain L.F.BEAL. DISPOSITION OF BATTALOINS The 19th and 20th Battalions Kings Liverpool Regiment formed the attacking Troops. The 17th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment were in support. The 2nd Bn.Bedfordshire Regiment were in RESERVE. ZERO HOUR was fixed for 4.45 a.m. on July 30th. The 90th Brigade were to attack GUILLEMONT on our Left and the French to attack MAUREPAS on our Right. One Company of the French 153rd Regiment were to attack MALTZ HORN FARM from the South and "A" Company 2nd Bn.Bedfordshire Regiment were to attack the Farm simultaneously from the west, both Companies preceding the advance at ZERO HOUR. At 10 p.m. July 29th the Battalion moved up from F.15.b. (The CITADEL) to its first assembly Positions just SOUTH of BERNAFAY WOOD and were in position by 3.30 a.m. on July 30th. On the march up to this position the Battalion suffered from Lachrymatory, Tear and Poisonous Gas Shells. Smoke Helmets had to be out on. A number of Officers, N.C.O's and men suffered from the effects of the Gas Shells. Headquarters of the Battalion were in the SUNKEN Road just East of the BRIQUETERIE. 30 Jul 1916 At 3.30 a.m. "A" Company moved up into its forming up position along the SUNKEN Road just East of the British Front Line Trench, ready for the attack at ZERO HOUR. At ZERO HOUR the Company attacked the MALTZ HORN FARM and Trench and captured it. They attacked in two lined, 1/2 Company extended in each Line. The attack was a Brilliant success, from 70 to 80 Germans being killed in the Trench, and one Prisoner taken. The Farm itself was found not to be held. As soon as "A" Company had cleared the MALTZ HORN GERMAN Trench, they were ordered to rejoin the Battalion in our original front line. This they did and suffered about 30 Casualties in the whole operation. 2nd Lieutenant H.C.LOVELY was wounded in this Operation at 4.55 a.m. Orders had been previously given to the Battalion that as soon as the 17th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment had moved up to support the attacking Battalions, the Battalion were to move up into their positions in the Trenches just South of TRONES WOOD. This was done at about 5.45 a.m. The attack was severely hampered by a dense fog causing the attacking Battalions to lose touch. At about 6.30 a.m., Officers Commanding 17th and 20th Kings Liverpool called for reinforcements. Orders were given for "B" and "C" Companies to move up in support, but these Companies were stopped by the O.C. 17th Bn.Lings Liverpool Regiment on reaching him, as he could get no information from Officer Commanding 19th and 20th Kings Liverpool Regiment as to here support was required. These two Companies therefore remained with Officer Commanding 17th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment. At about 6.45 a.m. Headquarters moved up to the HAIRPIN BEND and joined the Officer Commanding 20th Bn. Kings Liverpool Regiment. As no information could be given by him as to what was happening in front, "B" & "C" Companies were ordered to stay where they were with O.C. 17th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regiment. At 6.45 a.m. Lieutenant H.A.CHAMEN was seriously wounded. At 9 a.m. Lieutenant J.T.COE and 2nd Lieut.A.L.GORDON were wounded. At 10 a.m. Lieutenant W.WHITE with "A" Company were sent off to get touch with the French. They got touch with them and found that they had also been held up and were digging in. "A" Company therefore dug in on their left just SOUTH of MALTZ HORN FARM. At about 1.30 p.m. orders were received to consolidate the MALTZ HORN RIDGE from ARROW HEAD COPSE to the French Left. At 11.30 a.m. 2nd Lieutenant F.A.SLOAN was wounded. "D" Company under Captain L.F.BEAL were sent to connect up from MALTZ HORN FARM to the left of "A" Company, this they did and dug in. "B" and "C" Companies under Captain R.O.WYNNE moved off at 3 p.m. and dug a NEW TRENCH 300 yards long connecting up ARROW HEAD COPSE to the North end of the GERMAN MALTZ HORN Trench. The Companies were well dug in by 7 p.m. All Units that could be collected at HAIRPIN BEND were sent off at 1 p.m. to hold the old German Front Line. Trench running from MALTZ HORN FARM Northwards towards ARROW HEAD COPSE. By 7 p.m. the MALTZ HORN RIDGE was well consolidated, the whole position being heavily shelled throughout the day. At about 8 p.m. Orders were received that the Brigade were to be relieved. the Battalion was relieved by the 4th Bn.Kings Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, Commanded by Lt.Colonel SWAINSON. The relief commenced at about 2 a.m. and completed by 6 a.m. The Battalion then withdrew to our old Bivouac at 10 a.m. on the 31st July, 1916. The Casualties during these operations were: - OFFICERS 6. OTHER RANKS 186x x includes 9 Wounded at Duty. 31 Jul 1916 - The Citadel Battalion in Bivouac at F.15.b. Reference Map 62.d. N.E. Speech made to the Battalion by Major General J.S.M.SHEA, C.B., D.S.O., Commanding 30th Division, on 31st July, 1916. --------oOo--------- "I have come here this morning to thank you all for the way that you fought yesterday. It may seem to most of you that after doing all you could, you were only successful in capturing a small amount of ground. This however does not in any way represent the results of your hard fighting. It came to my knowledge only this morning, that eleven of the freshest German Battalions (The 12th Bavarian reserve) had just been brought up on the front which you attacked. There were only 8 Battalions actually fighting for the Division, and judging from the number of prisoners taken, and the number of casualties known to have been inflicted on the enemy, it is clear that you were instrumental in completely preventing what would have been a very strong counter attack on the Bantams in TRONES WOOD. The Army Commander has told me to thank you for him, and to his thanks I add mine and my hearty congratulations. Colonel Poyntz I congratulate you on your Battalion and on your men." OPERATION ORDER No 76. By Lieut Colonel H.S.POYNTZ, Commanding 2nd Bn Bedfordshire Regt. 27th June 1916 Reference Maps: - MONTAUBAN 1/20,000 MARICOURT TRENCH MAP 1/10,000 1. INTENTION. On "A" day, and ZERO hour, both to be published later, the 30th Division will capture the enemy trenches. the 77th Infantry Brigade, 39th French Division, will attack on our right and the 21st Infantry Brigade on our left. 2. OBJECTIVE. 1st Objective. The 20th Bn Kings Liverpool Regiment will assualt [sic] DUBLIN TRENCH from the point where it meets GLATZ REDOUBT to a point 400 yards East of that, its left being the junction of "N" STREET with Fire Trench A.9/1. The 17th Bn Kings Liverpool Regt will assualt [sic] DUBLIN TRENCH from point where it meets DUBLIN REDOUBT to a point 400 yards West of that, its right boundary being BRIQUETERIE-MARICOURT ROAD exclusive. 2nd Objective. A portion of the 20th Bn Kings Liverpool Regt will attack the BRIQUETERIE when MONTAUBAN has fallen. 3. DISPOSITIONS. The 2nd Bn Bedfordshire Regiment will be in Support, and on the night Y/Z will be disposed as in Appendix A. A and B Companies along GROVE AVENUE. C and D Companies along GROVE END ROAD. 4. Method of ADVANCE. The 17th and 20th Bn Kings Liverpool Regiment will advance in four lines, with 100 yards distance between each line. A and B Companies 2nd Bn Bedfordshire Regiment will follow the last wave of the 17th Bn Kings Liverpool Regt. C and D Companies 2nd Bn Bedfordshire Regiment will follow the last wave of the 20th Bn Kings Liverpool Regt in the formation as in Appendix "B". Each line will advance in line of half platoons, 50 yards interval between platoons and 100 yards distance between lines. The first two lines will follow on after the 4th line of the 17th and 20th Bn K.L.R. into the front German Trenches. The 3rd and 4th lines will remain in our front trenches until the lines in front German trenches advance. As soon as they advance, these two lines will cross to the German front and Support Trenches, and will not advance further without orders from Headquarters unless urgency arises. O.C. "B" and "C" Companies will reinforce the K.L.R. if required. 5. STRONG POINTS. The Battalion will establish 4 Strong Points at once on arrival in the German Trenches, and on completion will garrison these Strong Points. No 1. at A.10.d.15/60 under 2/Lt G.A.Anstee & 1 Platoon. No 2 at A.10.d.4/6 under 2/Lt R.E.Oakley & 1 Platoon. No 5 at A.10.b. 0/7 under 2./Lt.L.H.Fox & 22 O.R. No 6 at A.10.a. 5/2 under 2/Lt W.E.Boulton & 22 O.R. One section R.E. and 1 Platoon Pioneers will assist in the construction of Nos 1 and 2 Strong Points, but they will be started at once by our two parties. 6. NETTOYEURS. O.C."D" Coy will detail 2 Officers and 100 N.C.O's and men for this duty, of this party, 1 Officer 50 N.C.O's and men will follow the 3rd wave of the 17th Bn K.L.R. and 1 Officer and 50 N.C.O's and men will follow the 3rd wave of the 20th Bn K.L.R. each of these parties will be divided up as previously, and clean up all trenches to FAVIERE SUPPORT TRENCH and SILESIA SUPPORT TRENCH. A Central party of 2 N.C.O's and 20 men will also be detailed by O.C. "D"Coy to be at enemy Sap.3.A.10.c.5/6 for purpose of receiving prisoners from NETTOYEURS and escorting them to our front line at junction of A.16/6 and "P"STREET. As soon as prisoners are handed over, escorts will return at once and rejoin their parties. On completion of their cleaning up duties all parties will report to O.C. "D"Coy in SILESIA SUPPORT TRENCH. 7. ARTILLERY. Artillery lifts will be as follows: - (a) At 0.6. off FAVIERE SUPPORT line on to CASEMENT LINE. (b) At 0.16 off CASEMENT LINE on to DUBLIN LINE. (c) At 0.56 off DUBLIN LINE. 8. MACHINE GUNS. 2 Vickers Guns will be attached to this Battn, and one will move with "A" Coy and one with "D"Coy. 9. LEWIS GUNS. Lewis Guns will work with their Companies. 10. SIGNALLING. (a) A Signal Station will proceed with each Coy Hd Qrs. (b) An advanced signal station will be established in BEDFORD STREET. (c) An advanced signal station will be established at junction of "K"TRENCH and German front Line as soon as opportunity occurs. (d) Artillery flags, discs, vigilant periscopes, etc. will remain as in Brigade training. 11. SMOKE CANDLES. When DUBLIN TRENCH has been reached, the 17th and 20th K.L.R. will light SMOKE CANDLES. 12. AMMUNITION. Each man will carry on his person 170 rounds S.A.A. and 2 hand grenades. each bomber will carry 10 bombs. 13. RATIONS AND WATER. Water is very scarce and the utmost care must be exercised. Reserve water at the CHATEAU. RESERVE rations at the CHATEAU. 14. MEDICAL. Battalion Aid Post is established in COBHAM STREET. Advanced Dressing Station BRONFAY FARM. Walking wounded will be collected at R.E.Dump N.of BRAY. 15. DRESS. Each man will carry: - Waterproof Sheet. Pack (Without great coat) Equipment Rifle and bayonet 170 rounds S.A.A. 2 Mills Bombs 1 Iron Ration Also unexpended portion of "Z" days rations. Bombers, Lewis Gunners and Stretcher Bearers will carry: - Rifle and Bayonet (except 1 & 2 of Lewis Gun Teams and Bombers) 50 rounds S.A.A. (except Bombers) Lewis Gunners carry 170 rounds. Waterproof Sheet Rations as above. All men will carry a filled oil bottle, pullthrough and flannelette. Picks and shovels will be carried by all men in proportion of 1 pick to 3 shovels. 16. WIRE CUTTERS Each men carrying wire cutters will wear a white patch on the shoulder strap. 17. COMMUNICATION TRENCHES. MAIN UP TRENCH STANLEY AVENUE MAIN DOWN TRENCH MARICOURT AVENUE 18. WORKING AND CARRYING PARTIES [Coy - Officers - Other Ranks - To report to - Task] "A" - One - 1 Platoon not less than 40 men - Officer i/c 200th Field Coy R.E.at Trenches on east and West face of CHATEAU KEEP at 10 p.m. on night Y/Z - Preparing Strong Points Nos 1 and 2 "C" - One - 1 Platoon not less than 40 men - Officer i/c 200th Field Coy R.E.at Trenches on east and West face of CHATEAU KEEP at 10 p.m. on night Y/Z - Preparing Strong Points Nos 1 and 2 These are Nos 1 and 2 Strong Point parties referred to in para; 5. "D" - - - 8 - O.C.89th Coy Machine Gun Corps at NAPIERS REDOUBT at 9 a.m. on "Y" Day - Carriers for Vickers Guns. 19. DUMPS For Water, S.A.A., Bombs, R.E.Stores. Each Strong point party will have its material separate near this dump and labelled. 20. CASUALTIES. See Appendix (C) 21. WOUNDED. On no account will they be accompanied to the rear by unwounded. 22. RETIRE This word will not be used. 23. GREAT COATS AND HAVERSACKS All great coats will be returned to the CHATEAU by 4 p.m. on "Y" day tied in bundles of 20 properly labelled. Small kits will be put in the haversack which will be returned properly labelled to Headquarters at 5 p.m. on X day. 24. WATERBOTTLES. All waterbottles will be full at ZERO hour. 25. SECRET MAPS No secret maps, papers etc. will be carried by Officers or men of this Battalion. 26. TIME. All watches will be synchronised at a time to be notified. All messages sent must be timed. 27. HEADQUARTERS. (1) CHATEAU (2) STANLEY AVENUE when 17th K.L.R. H.Qrs advance. APPENDIX (C) CASUALTIES Reporting of Casualties during active Operations (1) ESTIMATED CASUALTIES Estimated Casualties should not be confused with the "Daily Casualty Wire" and will commence with Estimated Casualties. The following as a specimen wire. MINNIE 26.6.16. aaa ESTIMATED CASUALTIES aaa 2/Lieut R.SMITH and 60 O.R. aaa From O.C. "D" Coy. Time 8.0.a.m. Estimated Casualties will be sent to Battalion Headquarters at frequent intervals of not more than two hours, and more often if the casualties become heavy. (2) DAILY CASUALTY WIRE. This wire will be continued as in ordinary times, but will commence with "DAILY CASUALTY WIRE" It will include all casualties as far as is known. The following is a specimen wire. MINNIE 26.6.16.aaa DAILY CASUALTY WIRE aaa Capt J.J.BROWN killed 2/Lieut R.SMITH wounded aaa 7 O.R. killed 59 O.R. wounded aaa. From O.C."D" Coy. Time 18.29 p.m. This wire must reach Bn Headquarters by 1.p.m.daily. If possible Officer casualties should be reported at once. Anyone wounded and remaining at duty should be shown as such. It is most likely that these messages will have to be sent by Orderly. SECRET OPERATION ORDER By Lt.Colonel H.S.POYNTZ, Commanding 2nd Bn.Bedfordshire Regt. 29th July, 1916 Reference Map MAUREPAS 1/20,000. (and attached sketch) 1. The 89th Infantry Brigade will attack the Enemy's trenches between the Boundary lines marked YELLOW on the attached map. The 90th Infantry Brigade will be on the left and the 39th French Division on our right. ZERO Hour of assault will be communicated separately. The Final objective is due to be reached by ZERO plus 67 minutes on the morning of the 30th July, 1916. 2. DISPOSITION OF BATTALIONS 19th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regt will attack on the LEFT. 20th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regt will attack on the RIGHT. 17th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regt will be IN SUPPORT. 2nd Bn.Bedfordshire Regt will be IN RESERVE. 3. DISPOSITIONS OF COMPANIES In "B" Trench "D" and "C" Companies from North to South. "C" Company will also occupy "C" Trench if necessity arises for doing so. In "D" Trench "B" Company. In the SUNKEN ROAD, "A" Company. The above dispositions of Companies will be occupied by 1.30 a.m. on 30th July, 1916. 4. METHOD OF ADVANCE. Companies will remain in their assembly positions until orders are received from Battalion Headquarters; unless extreme urgency arises when Company Commanders will act on their own initiative. 5. ARTILLERY. Artillery Lifts according to attached map. The Attack will be supported by "D" Group Artillery (Col.Stewart) whose Headquarters will be at BRICK POINT. 6. MACHINE GUNS. Headquarters of Machine Gun Company will be in SUNKEN ROAD, BRIQUETERIE. No Machine Guns are attached to this Battalion. 7. LEWIS GUNS. Lewis Guns will move as before with their Companies. 8. STRONG POINTS AND CONSOLIDATION. On capture of Objective a support line will be dug from the Southern face of the GUILLEMONT Defence to about the Loop in the Road B.1.d.95/85. O.C. 200th Field Company R.E. is responsible for the siting of this work. men of the 17th Bn.Lancashire Fusrs and the 2nd Bn.South Lancashire Regt will be employed on this work. Should Companies of the Battalion reach final objective they will construct Strong Points as has already been communicated to them. 9. CARRYING PARTIES. Forty men of the 17th Lancashire Fusiliers will be attached to this Battalion for Carrying Purposes. The supply of all stores to Companies will be regulated from Battalion Headquarters. 10. SIGNALS AND COMMUNICATIONS (a) Advanced Divisional Lamp Station, A.15.c.4/5. (b) Visual: - From ARROW HEAD COPSE to the above Divisional Station (c) Visual: - from HAIRPIN BEND to the BRIQUETERIE. (d) Wireless: - A Wireless Station will be established near the HAIRPIN BEND. (e) An advanced Signal Station of the 2nd Bn.Bedfordshire Regt will be established in the HAIRPIN BEND as soon as possible. (f) GREEN FLARES only will be used and will be lit on reaching the following objectives: - (i) The Line marked O.8. on the map. (ii) The line marked 0.25 on the map. (iii) The final objective. (g) "S.O.S" signal is five white rockets fired in quick succession. 11. DUMPS. the Brigade Dump (STANLEY DUMP) for Ammunition and Bombs will be established A.5.d.2/5. A Dump is being formed at A.5.a.3/2 which will consist of MILLS S. A. A. V. P.A. 1" V. P. A. 1 1/2" ROCKETS WHITE. The Battalion will establish a forward dump of all materials at the Point which will be notified to Companies when circumstances permit. 12. PRISONERS. All Prisoners should be sent to the Advanced Collecting Station at A.10.d.2/6, on the MARICOURT - BRIQUETERIE Road, where a detachment of the 13th Corps Cyclist Battalion will take them over. 13. MEDICAL. The Medical Officer will move with Battalion Headquarters. Collecting Station at A.10.b.3/8 on MARICOURT - BRIQUETERIE Road. 14. RATIONS AND WATER. O.C.Companies will call the attention of all ranks to the scarcity of water in this area. One days ration and one Iron ration will be carried by all ranks. 15. MOVEMENT. Companies will leave Camp in the order "B", "D", "C", "A" Companies. 16. MINOR ENTERPRISE. "A" Company will operate from the SUNKEN ROAD under special instructions issued to Lieutenant W.WHITE. 17. HEADQUARTERS. Battalion Headquarters will be in the SUNKEN ROAD at A.5.a.2/2. 20th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regt at top of HAIRPIN BEND at A.5.d.8/9. 19th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regt at S.30.c.6/0. 17th Bn.Kings Liverpool Regt at S.30.c.6/0. Brigade Headquarters - junction of SUPPORT and HEADQUARTER AVENUE E. of TALUS BOISE at A.9.c.4/0. There will be an advanced Brigade Report Centre at the BRIQUETERIE. Messages can be sent to either place as most convenient at the moment. 18. EQUIPMENT. As at present in possession of Companies. Bombers will carry Tools. 19. TIME. One Officer from each Company will report to Battalion Headquarters in the SUNKEN ROAD at 2.30 a.m. 30th July, to synchronise watches. 20. REPORTS. Immediately Companies arrive in their assembly positions a report will be sent to Battalion Headquarters. 21. TRANSPORT. Transport will move under the orders of the Transport Officer. rations being dumped about A.4.d.4/5 (Approximate).

1-31 Jul 1916

From: 1916 To: 1916

item

Pearse, H.A.W.,
Wynne, Richard Owen,
Tyler, Cornelius George,
Beal, Leonard Frank,
Gaze, A.M.B.,
Young, A.,
Ballard, Robert Francis Cooper,
Fyson, Harold George,
Primrose-Wells, James Bowen,
Walker, Laurence Hall,
Dolman, Leonard,
Boulton, W.E.,
Brickell, H.J.,
Bliss, Frederick William,
Douglas, John William Henry Tyler,
Poyntz, Edward Stephen Massey,
Dabell, N.V.,
White, William,
Coe, J.T.,
Fink, Lawrence Alexander Lewis,
Pemberton, T.J.,
Hague, F.,
Chamen, Harold Ashcombe,
Gibson, Robert Bowness,
Plummer, F.E.,
Gale,
Fox, Leslie Herbert,
Cross, Dennis Patrick,
Hurrell, J.W.,
Shea, John Stuart Mackenzie,
Poyntz, Hugh Stainton,
Loveley, H.C.,
Osborne, F H,
Amyot, T.E.,
Tawse, E,
Harman, H H,
Sloan, F.A.,
Swainson

2nd Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment, 17th Battalion (1st City) King's (Liverpool) Regiment, 19th Battalion (3rd City) King's (Liverpool) Regiment, 20th Battalion (4th City) King's (Liverpool) Regiment, land weaponry, 89th Infantry Brigade, Germans, town & local roads, maps, 3rd South African Regiment, South Africans, deaths, weather, church services, 90th Infantry Brigade, 7th Battalion Royal West Kent Regiment, 55th Infantry Brigade, baths, 4th Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment, 18th Battalion (2nd City) King's (Liverpool) Regiment, Northamptonshire Regiment, Royal Army Medical Corps, 32nd Battalion Royal Fusiliers, 153rd French Regiment, prisoners of war, weather, 4th Battalion King's Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment, 30th Division, 77th French Infantry Brigade, 39th French Infantry Division, Royal Engineers, words, water provision, clothing, 200th Field Company Royal Engineers, 17th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion South Lancashire Regiment, 13th Corps Cyclist Battalion, XIII Corps, Faviere Trench [Somme], Silesia Trench [Somme], Casement Trench [Somme], Alt Alley [Somme], Glatz Alley [Somme], Dublin Trench [Somme], Faviere Support Trench [Somme], Silesia Support Trench [Somme], Glatz Redoubt [Somme], Dublin Redoubt [Somme], Montauban Briqueterie, Montauban-de-Picardie, Lexdon Street [Somme], Germans Wood [Somme], Bedford Trench [Somme], Bois des Tailles (Somme), Billon Wood (Somme), Cobham Street [Somme], Trones Wood (Somme), Longueval, Longueval Alley [Somme], Bernafay Wood [Somme], Head Street [Somme], Tyler Street [Somme], Mauldon Street [Somme], Culver Street [Somme], Mersey Street [Somme], Vaux-sur-Somme, Happy Valley [Somme], Etinehem, Bray-sur-Somme, Citadel [Somme], Guillemont, Falfemont Farm [Somme], Talus Boise [Somme], Maurepas, Maltz Horn Farm [Somme], Maltz Horn Trench [Somme], Hairpin Bend [Somme], New Trench (Somme), Arrowhead Copse [Somme], N Street [Somme], Grove Avenue [Somme], Grove End Road [Somme], P Street [Somme], K Trench [Somme], Chateau Maricourt, Bronfay Farm [Somme], Stanley Aveune [Somme], Maricourt Avenue [Somme], Chateau Keep [Somme], Napiers Redoubt [Somme], Brick Point [Somme], Stanley Dump [Somme]