Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 322
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[Page 322]
Thursday 7th June
To day the greatest battle scenes ever witnessed were enacted. At 3.10 AM a number of mines which had been laid under Boche positions from Hill 60 to Messines were exploded causing the earth to tremble as if a violent earthquake was in progress. Simultaneously thousands of guns (about 2550) of all calibres from 18 pr. to 15" loosed off and under the finest barrage ever conceived our Infantry advanced over a nine mile front everywhere capturing all objectives.
In our Corps front the attack was launched by the 3rd Aus Div, N.Z. Div. and 25th Div., while the 4th Aus Div was in reserve, and after the first objectives had been taken they pushed through and captured the advanced objectives. The whole show was a huge dramatic success, all objectives being gained to time table and with light casualties, while the Boche lost 7000 prisoners, many guns, mortars and machine guns, and had thousands killed. I went up close behind Messines during the afternoon, everywhere the effects of the terrific Artillery bombardment being in evidence.
Friday 8th June
The battle still continues though in a lesser degree, simply straightening out unsatisfactory pockets. The Boche has shelled the new front lines fairly solidly, as well as Messines but has fired little on our batteries. As a consequence they have suffered few casualties. Tomorrow I take over from C.R.A. New Zealand Division who has up to now had command of his own guns, 4th Aus Div, and two extra Brigades.
Saturday 9th June
At 3.45 AM I left my billet for a reconnaissance of the whole of our front line. I crossed over North West of Messines to our new front line and thoroughly investigated the positions held by our troops. Many dead Boche to be seen and a few of our own men. Tanks had got well up to our front line and close behind were two derelict. They had got into a soft patch of soil, and had in their struggles to get out only further buried themselves. Our new positions afford excellent opportunity for Artillery observation and control of fire. Commander in Chief called at Westhof Farm and was very congratulatory in his reference to all arms of the Service. He sent a special message of thanks to the gunners.
Took over Artillery command at 5 PM from Gen. Johnstone C.R.A. N.Z. Division.