Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 226
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[Page 226]
Friday 23rd June
Proceeded with the formation of one Heavy and three Medium Trench Mortar Batteries. D.A.C. Commander ordered to find personnel. Newly appointed Subalterns will be posted to these Batteries. Went to Corps Head Quarters. Took Corporal Benson [his batman] with me and he made a water colour sketch of the HQrs. buildings. We then went on through Hazebrouck to Cassell, and here also Benson made a sketch of the town, prominently situated as it is on a hill with the Church of Notre Dame and 2nd Army Head Quarters building showing up prominently in the picture.
Saturday 24th June
Spent the morning with Col Vernon re formation of Trench Mortar Batteries. Got everything satisfactorily arranged. Visited Divisional HQrs and dealt with Court Martials etc. Obtained Road Passes for Staff and Brigade Commanders from A.P.M. and also arranged re "Gas" lectures for all Brigades. Applied for 7 days' leave from 27th inst., being the day General Cox returns.
Very heavy Cannonade through the night and early morning from the direction of Armentieres. I expect we shall have enough of it soon. Sent new officers to Calais for personal equipment etc. Two men of 12th Bde. sent forward on 21st inst. were wounded today.
Sunday 25th June
At 7 AM closely inspected the personnel of all Trench Mortar batteries. Published their composition in orders. Detailed officers and personnel. List of appointments to Commissions in Division approved by me published in Div. Orders.
Saw Gen. Birdwood at La Motte. Arranged with Colonel Griffiths re transfer of Capt. Asher. With two Brigade Commanders attended at Trench Mortar School, Berthen under Major Gen. J. Keane D.S.O.. He very kindly showed us around. Mortars are very effective and should prove a great boon in co-operation with our Artillery. Came through Hazebrouck on the way back from La Motte.
Arranged to go round gun positions of 2nd Aus Div Artillery tomorrow with General Birdwood.
Have just received word that of the two men of 12th Brigade wounded yesterday, one has died.