Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 336
Primary tabs
Transcription
[Page 336]
Sunday 29th July
Letter received from Nell dated May 17th. They are few and far between these days. Submarines have sadly interfered with both our outgoing and incoming mails. Wrote letters during the morning. In the afternoon went to Dunkerque via St. Omer and Loon Place. Had three punctures on the way. Owing to these delays did not have time to call on Col. Rabett who is at present with 4th Army. Dunkerque full of troops of all nationalities. An ominous sign of impending operations was the number of new Red Cross Ambulances barges lying in the Canals. Arrived home at 8 PM. Terrific storm at night.
Monday 30th July
In morning called on O.C. No. 6 Supply column Steenwerck re overhaul of car. Arranged to have it completed by evening of August 1st, so that it might be available for Charley when he arrives on 2nd, this being the suggested date. Called on OC. B Battalion DAC. Lt. McAdair. He is taking a good grip of the show and has already made a substantial improvement in the turnout of his unit. Letter received from my sister.
Tuesday 31st July
Heavy bombardment early this morning heralded the opening of operations against the Boche involving 5th and 2nd British Armies and 1st French Army. Cannonade continued very heavily till about noon. Wires received indicate successful occupation of objectives all along the front. The New Zealand Division had a stiff fight in La Basse Ville, and the 3rd Aus Div in Warneton. Boche counterattacked several times unsuccessfully. Will receive full details tomorrow. My gunners have suffered fairly heavily in the St. Eloi-Spoil Bank positions and generally have had a very thin time.
Wednesday 1st August
Battle continued during day. In the main all objectives have been gained tho' line held up at a few points. Received word from G.H.Q. that permission could not at present be granted for my son to visit me here. During morning rode through edge of Forest De Nieppe, and thence through Merville back to HQrs. Conference with Gen. MacLagan at D.H.Q. Discussed necessity of getting 4th Aus. Div Arty out of the line as soon as possible - also question of Honours and Rewards. Heavy rain commenced during day.