Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 406
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[Page 406]
Capt. Pike and Capt. Moss from 3rd Aus Div called to assist us in any way possible. Draft report of operations sent by Capt. Pike to General Monash. The 35th Battalion is now also accommodated in cellars in Villers Bretonneux with the 33rd and 34th. I hope to accommodate the 36th in a similar manner.
Monday 8th April
A quiet day generally, tho' this morning there was heavy artillery fire on the French front on our right. Major Pain went forward to see Battalions and select forward Brigade Station in case we again go into the line as appears now to be possible. Australian Corps now established on the sector and comes under 4th Army. I expect the Corps southern boundary will be Hangard and the northern boundary in the vicinity of Buire. Major King from 3rd Aus Div and Dados called re equipment, stores, clothing etc. Prepared recommendation for immediate honors and awards to Officers NCOs and men of 33rd and 34th Battalions in connection with counter attack operations on 30th March. Informed by 18th Division that two of my Battalions would tomorrow night go into the line from Hangard midway to Villers Bretonneux.
Miserable wet day. The 5th Aus. Brigade and 175th Brigade are tomorrow morning early to advance their line to the old front East of what we know as Lancer Wood.
Tuesday 9th April
Operation intended for this morning postponed till approximately 13th inst. in order to permit of French co-operation on South. Brigade Major and myself called on GOC 5th Aus. Inf. Bde. and arranged details of relief tonight of 34th and 36th Battalions. GOC 18th Division called and in detail gave me the nature of proposed operations on 13th inst. and the role of this Brigade on that date as Divisional Reserve.
Boche shelling a good deal during the day and towards evening sent over some gas shell. London "Times" of yesterday's date gives an interesting column to the work of the Cavalry during the recent fighting and incidentally refers to our working with and appreciation for the Cavalry.
Relief by 34th and 36th Battalions carried out, and 33rd & 35th Battalions also 9th Aus. Machine Gun Co. and Trench Mortar Battery become Divisional Reserve and will remain for the present located in stray cellars on the north West corner of Villers Bretonneux.