Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 371
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[Page 371]
Tuesday 4th December
At 10.30 AM Gen. Birdwood presented ribbons to officers, N.C.Os. and men of the Division who have recently been awarded decorations. Quite a nice Ceremonial Parade near Neuve Eglise. He informed us the 4th Division had been ordered to the Cambrai front, rather upsetting the arrangements made to complete the other four Divisions to full strength.
Capt. Collier 24th ASC Company called re recent happenings in 3rd Div. Train. I promised him I would see Col. Henley in the matter.
Again a very cold day with slight fall of snow.
Gen. Monash left for a 14 days leave period, Gen. McNicholl to act as Divisional Commander during his absence.
Wednesday 5th December
With Major Dunlop inspected Transport lines of 34th and 36 th Battalions. The former still requires a good deal of energy expended to ensure satisfactory Harness, vehicles etc.
Called at Divisional HQrs. during afternoon. Said goodbye to Col. Jackson. Roads very slippery owing to continued frosts. Walked back to my HQrs.
Thursday 6th December
With Major Dunlop spent the morning at Brigade Bayonet fighting School. Instruction very thorough and officers and men in the class doing well. Saw Colonel Henley re recent trouble at A.S.C mess. He promised to set up a Court of Enquiry. An officer of 34th Battalion involved, and the O.C. duly informed and instructed to take necessary action. Very cold day and night. At 5.30 PM with Capt. Hawkins went to see the Pierrot Divisional Show at Nieppe. Quite a good programme, and Pioneer Band selections excellent.
Friday 7th December
Major McKenzie the newly appointed DADVS called with Colonel Jackson. Necessary to move animals of 35th Transport to new standings because of infection in existing ones. Gen. Birdwood inspected 10th Brigade front, tho' as I had been informed by Division that he was to do my sector today I waited in for him. I spoke to him on the phone during the evening and he informed me he would visit my area on Monday next. Aus. Comforts fund provided Bde H Qrs. with a Gramophone and sundry records. Informed Col. Martin of Baulchi escapade with ASC