Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 323
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[Page 323]
Sunday 10th June
Balance of 4th A.D.A HQrs. moved from Balliel to Westhof Farm. Batteries of all groups being moved well forward behind Messines. Getting new maps etc. prepared and generally rearranging our offices. A new offensive to improve our front will soon eventuate. Conference with Gen. Godley and Divisional Commanders of 25th and 4th Aus. Divs. Decided to straighten out a portion of the line tonight at 10.30 and an artillery programme proposed accordingly. Tomorrow I shall have under my command, 4th N.Z. and 25th Div. Artilleries, Col. Cockraft 's Brigade and one Battery – a total of 29 batteries equally 174 guns. This Command will take some handling. Our trench mortars of all Divisions are temporarily helping 3rd Aus Div in wire cutting tasks. Wrote my usual weekly budget of letters.
Monday 11th June
Little operation last night quite successful. Our Infantry found over 100 dead in the German position, apparently killed by Artillery fire – Artillery of both sides very active during the night.
During today our mounted troops pushed forward towards the Warneton line – followed by Infantry patrols, who will establish themselves well in front of the Green Line if possible.
N.Z. Division taking over from 3rd Aus Div, Gen. Johnstone taking over command of the massed Artillery. Later 25th Division is to relieve 4th Aus Div at which time the 25th Div. CRA will assume command of combined Artillery. To day his artillery and Col. Cockraft's Brigade came under my command. Received very kind letter of congratulation from Lt. Gen. Sir H.V. Cox, our late Divisional Commander.
Tuesday 12th June
Our Infantry Patrols last night established themselves about 300 yards Eastward of our present established front line. Machine gun fire prevented further advance. We are now close up to the Warneton line, which we may expect will be held in strength by the Boche.
Received orders to hand over Artillery Command to 25th Division at 6 AM tomorrow. Called on CRA 25th Division during afternoon. Arranged for my Brigade Major and Staff Captain to assist staff of 25th D.A. as may be required.