Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 390
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[Page 390]
Approval given for me to move my HQrs. to "Big Sam" dugouts in Ploegsteert wood. This will put me much nearer my work than were I to take over Romarin Camp. Heavy rain during afternoon and evening.
Thursday 21st January
In the morning General Monash called re Court of Enquiry concerning Passchendaele operations and sundry matters of routine. He also referred to seeming friction between Col. Joss and Major Pain. Lt. Cols. Abbott and Bennett called. Conference with officers concerned regarding details of raid now proposed to be carried out on 3rd March. Decided on objectives etc. Wrote home letters during the afternoon.
Friday 22nd February
At 9 AM with Battalion Commanders and other officers watched 9th Brigade School personnel at work. Altogether the show was exceedingly good. I addressed the School. Later accepted School method of wearing equipment as the one to be adopted throughout the Brigade. At 11 AM had a conference with Col. Clougstone and Major Brookman re work on Corps line. At 2.30 PM Divisional Commander called and discussed various matters. Major Williams (CRE) called re accommodation for "C" Battalion in forward area.
Saturday 23rd February
During morning Divisional Commander held a conference at Brigade HQrs. re forthcoming raid, present in addition to myself, GSO I, Col. Milne, DMGO, TMB Commander, CRA & Bde. Major and Major Pain. Decided on general lines of raid. After lunch inspected personnel of raiding party, and addressed both officers and men separately. Then moved with part of staff to new advanced HQrs. near Ploegsteert.
Sunday 24th February
Attended Church Parade in morning at Nieppe. Afterwards General Birdwood presented medals, and on behalf of the King of Belgian presented me with the Croix de Guerre. Then called at 10th Bde H Qrs. and went through works policy of the Brigade. Arranged for works officers to show me round tomorrow morning. Major Pain took Asst. BM of 10th Bde. along the whole length of 2nd Zone. Divisional Commander informed me Gen. Birdwood wants raid repeated the next night.