Item 06: John D. Wilson diary, 17 May-19 September 1917 - Page 135
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[Page 135]
three wounded this morning.
I made a serviette ring and a table knife out of a copper band cut off a shell for a signaller in the Brigade. He
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At 2.a.m. I went with two Canadians to the Dug out at the foot of the hill for rations and petrol during a lull in the enemy's bombardment when we got there the stuff had not arrived and the shelling again started and continued all evening. It was 8.30 when I got back. I waited an hour longer than the others for the rations & had to return without them.
Saturday July 28, 1917. (1090).
It is fine and warm today.
Last night 2 days rations was sent to us from Brigade Stores, which I take to mean that we will probably go out to morrow or Monday.
The enemy artillery is fairly quick this morning. I chiseled off the copper driving bands on some enemy shells this morning to make some souveneirs. Thisevening while waiting for petrol at the foot of the Hill I chiseled off the driving band off a German 5.9 Howitzer. I saw a new German Gas shell that failed to explode. It was dug out and brought to Brigade H.Q. to be examined.
Sunday July 29, 1917 (1091.)
It is wet to day. At 10.a.m. there was a heavy storm – loud peals of thunder, vivid flashes of lightening and torrents of rain.
There was a terrific artillery duel yesterday evening and last night. The enemy shelled all this sector & drove all the artillery men into this dug-