Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 340
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[Page 340]
Fifth Army are to again attack on 16th inst. and we are to help here by a show against Warneton and vicinity. In this task our guns are firing into the New Zealand Divisional area. Major Bates attended at NZDAHQ to arrange details. Howitzer batteries are placed at the disposal of the Counter Battery S. Officer. Major Bates very unwell. Forwarded second letter to Division re Col. O. Mahony enclosing his statement to me of lack of opportunities in England. Forwarded letter to Division regarding Major Bates' services recommending him as being fully qualified for appointment as CRA of a Division, S. Officer to MGRA of Aus. Army (or GOC RA. of a Corps) and Command of a Brigade of Field Artillery.
Wednesday 15th August
Conference with Divisional Commander re Artillery support for Reserve Line. He expressed himself as satisfied. Major Bates visited Group Artillery HQrs. of both Divisions. Prepared Honors and Awards Schedule for next Half Yearly list to send in to Division before I vacate appointment of C.R.A. Divisional Commander visited Brigade HQrs. and at the same time saw our Artillery Group Commanders. DAC moved to new wagon lines at the foot of Kemmel.
Thursday 16th August
At 4.45 AM watched the Artillery bombardment for our attack by 5th Army opposite Ypres. We viewed the show from the top of Kemmel from which point a magnificent view of the whole country is obtained. General Lushington CRA 41st Division also there. The effect was magical. Thousands of guns – heavy and field – loosing off at a great rate, and the bursting shrapnel together with an occasional exploding dump, made a brilliantly lighted up panorama. In addition the Boche were sending up coloured flares of all descriptions. Our aeroplanes were buzzing overhead and no less than 12 of our observation balloons were up in this Sector long before day light.
Letter from General Birdwood re Gunner Fitzgerald of Trench Mortar Batteries, asking if he is considered suitable for a Commission.
Interview with Capt. Sherwood H.T.M. Battery re his alleged Supersession. He admitted he was in error and requested to be allowed to withdraw his complaint. Granted.
Friday 17th August
Spent the morning visiting Battery positions, and in the afternoon studied all and sundry publications from General Staff bearing on Infantry work. I must prepare for my new command.
Boche planes again overhead tonight dropping bombs.