Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 382
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[Page 382]
through Messines to HQrs. of 7th and 8th Battalions. Relief finally completed last night. Weather conditions very bad and the Douvre in flood.
In afternoon Col. Blamey visited works in Reserve Line, while the ADC and myself visited Steenwerck returning to DHQ at 6.30 PM.
D.A.D.M.S. 3rd Australian Division called on me.
Friday 18th January
To day I visited the three Field Artillery Brigades employed in this Divisional Area, the 1st and 2nd Brigades belonging to the 1st Aus. Div, and the 12th Army Brigade which was at one time part of my 4th Aus Div Artillery Command. I found Lt. Col. Williams in command of the latter group – and he looks very fit and well. Later on I hope to go round all the Battery positions.
Saturday 19th January
Visited 9th Inf. Brigade School at Meteren. Major Massie is doing very well indeed with the embryo officers, while Captain Yates has the signalling School in hand. Afterwards I visited 2nd Brigade School at Caestre under Capt. Lilley – but it did not favourably impress me. Boche prisoner captured last night.
Called on General Barnes G.O.C. 57th Division, HQrs. at Chateau Steenwerck.
Sunday 20th January
General Birdwood called. Discussed Divisional front generally and suggested that front line posts might be reduced during the present heavy weather. Informed me of proposal to reduce all Brigades to three Battalions each. This alteration however will not be adopted by the A.I.F. till after the next big offensive. In the meantime every effort is to be made to conserve every man. No useless casualties and unnecessary sick. Wrote usual weekly letters. Patrol of 1st Brigade came under enemy M.G. fire during the early part of night and one officer and man who were wounded have not yet been brought in.
Monday 21st January
No trace so far of officer and man missing last night. During morning with Gen. Bennett I visited all four battalions of 3rd Brigade. Major Phillips famed as an officer who desired to avoid front line service is now a/O.C. 11th Battalion. In evening I attended Divisional Concert Troupe concert. Items were exceedingly good and their "girl" was a splendid imitation.