****************************ST AUGUSTINE NORWICH*******************************
Lieut. Gordon L Jode
Name: JODE, GORDON ROBERT LOVELACE
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 12th (Norfolk Yeomanry) Bn.
Age: 33
Date of Death: 19/08/1918
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Jode, of 5, Angel Rd., Norwich; husband of Maud Jode, of Belaugh Grange, Wroxham, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. C. 56. Cemetery: OUTTERSTEENE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, BAILLEUL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=42285
No match on Norlink
There is a Gordon Jode recorded on the 1911 census as born circa 1886 at Sutton, Surrey, and now resident in Norwich. Other Jode’s recorded in Norwich on the 1911 Census are a Kate, (born circa 1855, Norwich), Stella, (born c.1888 Sutton, Surrey), Mabel, (born c.1892 Harpenden, Herts), and Bertha, (born c.1895 Harpenden, Herts).
If we go back to the 1891 census, when the family are recorded at Verulam Road, St Albans, the family relationships begin to become clearer. Head of the family is William Jode, then aged 38 and a Stationers Traveller (?) from St Pancras, Middlesex. His wife, Kate E, then aged 36, is from Norwich. Their children are Kathleen L, (aged 8, born Camberwell, London), Albert W, (aged 7, born Sutton, Surrey), Gordon R, (aged 5, born Sutton), Stella L L ,(aged 2, born Sutton) and Hilda A.L, (aged 1, born Sutton). The Jode’s have one live in servant.
By the time of the 1901 census, the family had moved to School Road, Drayton, near Norwich.. Father William Jode is now down as a Stationer and is classed as an “Employer“. Kathleen and Albert are not with them, and nor is Gordon. However, Mabel and Bertha have joined the family. The Jode’s once again have a live in servant.
Neither Albert or Gordon appear to be on the 1901 census for England and Wales and there is no trace of Gordon on the 1901 census for Scotland. Neither appear to be on any passenger lists for the period from 1890 to 1910.
The London Gazette supplement for the 5th June 1918 contains the War office Announcement that 2nd Lt G R L Jode was to be an Acting Captain wef 4th December 1917 in a section simply headed Yeomanry.
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/30728/supplements/6670
In the supplement to the Gazette dated 10th January 1919, a War Office announcement includes a note that 2nd Lt G R L Jode relinquishes his acting capatainship on ceasing to command a company, w.e.f 9th February 1918. The Gazette notes that 2nd Lt Jode has since been killed in action.
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/31120/supplements/681
18th/19th August 1918
Outtersteene was captured by III Corps on the 13th October, 1914.The hamlet was captured by the Germans on the 12th April, 1918, and retaken by the 9th, 29th and 31st Divisions, with the ridge beyond it, on the 18th and 19th August;
(12th Norfolks were part of the 31st Division)
www.webmatters.net/cwgc/outtersteene_com.htm
Battalion War Diary (both entries handwritten, and difficult in places to decipher)
18th August 1918 Field
In conjunction with the 9th & 29th Divisions operations were projected(?) for exploiting success. Five fighting patrols were detailed + another patrol whose mission was to capture the strong point at E.18(?)d.05.70. Our patrols had orders not to move until it was seen that the Btn. on our left had taken their first objective. Our patrols took up their battle positions, but it appears that the Btn on our left ran up against superior resistance, were forced to withdraw and the result that our patrols lay in their battle positions for most of the day + were withdrawn at night without having accomplished any of the objectives they set out to attain.
19th August 1918 Field
In conjunction with the 87 Bde on our left, the Bn was detailed to attack enemy positions+ Strong points then advance to final objective F.13,C.9.9 to LABIS FARM thence following the VIEUX BERQUIN road to COURRIER COTTAGE. The artillery programme was as follows:
Barrage to start at ZERO hour and continue (with a break(?) of six minutes half way through) with following lift – 100 yards every three minutes until reaching final objective then to be put down 250 yds in front of them. Contact remote attack aeroplane (?) +TMB:collaborated.
A B + C Coys were to attack, with C Coy 12 RSF holding the line with (?) our D Coy who were to consolidate a new line in enemy posts at E.18.d.05.75. The BN formed up in the assembly position which were fifty yards behind the line of posts conforming (?) to the line, by 4pm. Zero hour was at ???? (Page corner torn, which affects next few sentences)
The moving off was accomplished without being observed by the enemy. Punctually at 5pm, ????
Barraged opened, the line moved forward, keeping well up with the barrage. When nearing the first ????
Heavy machine gun fire was opened by the enemy, causing many casualties among the O????, (presumably Officers), and NCO’s.
This caused the right flank to be held up also the left was held up by machine guns and snipers. The two lwft platoons, (A Coy), had closed in too much to the left, thus leaving some of the enemy strongpoints at E.18.d.05.70 untouched. OC D Coy, seeing this, immediately pushed forward the right hand platton + engaged the enemy. He then brought up the remainder of D Coy and formed a line with A Coy right, pushing forward, taking enemy strongpoint at E.18.a.9.8 and taking points in enemy trenches at E.18.a.1.1. The enemy fell back fighting all the way to shell holes. A small party of B Coy then pushed forward to within a short distance of the final objective overcoming considerable resistance on the part of the enemy. Countless (?) snipers who were concealed in shell holes. The whole line now in touch took the final objective causing many casualties to the retiring enemy. The positions gained were then consolidated and listening posts were immediately pushed forward. A carrying party which was formed by D Coy did good work in getting up tools, ammunition, grenades, etc during the action + all the objectives had been gained.
The enemy put down a heavy barrage in front of our new line but apparently were not sure where we had established ourselves.
Prisoners taken : 60 M.G’s captured 12 Casualties. Killed 8 Officers, 38 ors Wounded 1 Off, 100 ors. Over 100 enemy dead were counted in the field.
At the month end appendix there is the following note.
At the conclusion of the 19th August operation, the following message was received by the battalion.
To General De LISLE Cmdg 15 Corps. Please accept my congratulations and convey these again to the Cmdrs of 29 & 31st Division and all troops engaged yesterday in the way they planned + carried out their very successful operations yesterday afternoon. From Gen. PLUMER.
From Corps Commander – “Corps Commander very pleased with the success of your minor operations and wish you to convey the appreciation to the troops concerned.”
“Please express to all ranks the Divisional Commanders appreciation of the most excellent work done by the Officers, NCO’s and men during the minor operation yesterday. Success was largely due to the successful planning of the operation and the excellent co-operation between Artillery + Infantry. Plans, however good, do not succeed, unless the men display the fine fighting spirit which enabled the 12 (Yeo) Bn, Norfolk Regt to overcome strong opposition.
The Battalion started the month with 40 Officers on strength – it finished with 29.
This minor operation had cost Gordon Jode his life.
There is a picture of his headstone here:-
www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=pv&GRid=55905867
************************************** Lieut Bertie W Benn******************************
In Loving memory of Lieut Bertie W Benn
(of the 8th Norfolks)
The beloved son of J&E Benn
Of this Parish
Who died fighting for his Country
In the Battle of the Somme
19th July 1916
Aged 27 years
__________________
Also Lieut W H Benn
(of the 7th Norfolks)
Who died in action in France
August 2nd 1917. Aged 26 years.
“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of Life”
2nd Lieut. Bertie W Benn
Name: BENN, BERTIE WILLIAM
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/07/1916
Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=768095
There is a picture of Bertie on Norlink, when he was still in the ranks as a Corporal
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn…
The Benn’s are recorded on the 1901 census at 20 Ebenezer Terrace, Sussex Street in the parish of St Augustine. Head of the household is William J Benn, aged 37 whose occupation looks lie Carpet & Dom(estic) Porter. William is from Norwich. His wife Emily, is aged 36 and from Mulbarton.
Their children are:-
Bertie W…………..aged 12.………….born Norwich……..Bakers Boy half-timer
Walter H…………..aged 10.………….born Norwich
Arthur J……………aged 7.……………born Norwich
Lilian M………….aged 6.…………….born Norwich
Florence E………..aged 3.……………born Norwich
Hilda A……………aged 2.……………born Norwich
Ethel N…………..aged 5 (looks like weeks rather than months)….born Norwich
Bertie‘s promotion from the ranks – at which point he was a Sergeant, was gazetted on the 18th August 1916 w.e.f 27th June 1916. The Gazette notes this is from a “Service“ battalion, I.e. one of the new battalions raised specifically for the war.
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29711/pages/8164
Wednesday 19th July 1916. Day 19
Delville Wood
Fighting continued in Delville Wood all day. 53 Bde (18th Div) had been sent to reinforce 9th Div. 8th Norfolks attacked from south west of Longueval at 7am and occupied the southern part of Delville Wood. The 10th Essex, 6th Royal Berkshire Regt and 8th Suffolks were sent to the attack with little success.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058
(6th Royal Berkshire War Diary for the day
3.30AM – Bn arrived at S22d Valley. CO rejoined with orders which were read and explained. Bn ready to move off at 4AM.
5.14 – Norfolks report Zero time to be 6.15AM.
5.40 – Norfolks commence to move off towards LONGUEVAL which was over a mile off. Enemy shell road to LONGUEVAL with field guns. Long halts cause delay and congestion in road.
7.5 – No 13 Platoon D Coy Berks moves off as leading platoon of the Bn. Enemy shelling road heavily with guns of all calibre. Many casualties from shell fire. Norfolks not yet attacked though barrage lifted.
9.0 – Entrance to village reached.
9.49 – B9 stating Barrage will lift at 11AM received.
10.50 – BM12 " " " " 11AM by 50 yards a minute received.
11.40 – Norfolks report S portion of wood clear. Battn starts to move on to wood.
11.55 – Bn in position in S portion of wood and in touch with Essex on right but very weak owing to heavy losses from shell fire. MG opened fire on to the leading platoons of D Coy from the NW corner of the Southern half of wood. This gun had not been reported by Norfolks.
NOON – CO arranged for rebombardment to start at 1pm for 30 minutes and for assault to take place after.
1pm – Heavies falling short among our own men. Shrapnel bursting short.
1.30pm – Barrage lifted. It was impossible to tell that a bombardment was on as the rate of fire was so slow and Coys had to be informed that it was time to attack. Germans brought heavy barrage on PRINCES ST line and opened with MGs on advancing troops. D Coy unable to advance owing to MG from a house somewhere on their left. C & B advanced about 150yds but suffered heavy casualties and were finally forced to drop back to the lines PRINCES ST where they started to dig in.
1.50 – Owing to heavy fire on working parties AC & B Coys forced to retire to original line – about 80 yds S of PRINCES ST.
2.15 – Coys ordered to consolidate on the line they hold. Bde calls for situation – reported verbally see back of message B729.
2,36 – Situation explained to Suffolks and Stokes Gun asked for but not received.
3.5 – Situation explained to Bde. MGs sent into the line proposed to hold. 4 guns under 2Lt Gilbert.
3.37 – Situation sent to Bde – work of consolidation of the line 120yds S of PRINCES ST complete. Efforts being made to deepen the line 40yds S of PRINCES ST.
4.10 – Preparations complete for further effort to advance on our left but owing to inability to get in touch with Suffolks on left advance was impossible. Reported to Brigade.
4.45 – Our heavies dropping short and causing casualties among our own men. Reported to Brigade.
5.30 – Situation reported to Brigade.
6.45 – Casualties reported to Brigade.
8.40 – Situation reported to Brigade.
9.40 – 2Lt GC Hollis arrived with details of arrangements for attack by RW Fus at dawn – circulated to other Battns for information.
9.50 – German counter attacked on left edge of wood and in the village – rifle and machine gun fire for ten minutes – attack apparently driven off.
10.40 – Details of new attack received from Bde.
10.45 – Details of change in dispositions received from Norfolks and arrangements made to comply with this.
10.50 – BM45 received from Bde and timed at 8.45pm. As Norfolks message was later and after conference with Essex it was decided to act on the Norfolks information. Wires to Brigade all broken.
11.50 – Heavy shelling by Germans.
www.thewardrobe.org.uk/wardiary.php
*******************************2nd Lieut. Walter Benn*********************************
Name: BENN Initials: W H
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Date of Death: 02/08/1917
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. F. 33. Cemetery: MONCHY BRITISH CEMETERY, MONCHY-LE-PREUX
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=28533
There is a picture of Walter on Norlink
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn…
See brother Bertie for family details.
John Burrows, in his multi-volume history of the Essex Regiment in the First World War, has this to say about the 7th Norfolk Battalion in early August 1917:
On August 1st the Battalion succeeded the 11th Middlesex in the trenches, with headquarters under the Cambrai Road, and found the enemy in a much quieter mood. They were quickly disillusioned the next day, however, because the Germans put down such a heavy cannonade at night that the support trench of the left company was practically obliterated. It was the prelude to an attack in the early morning of August 3rd, when the enemy secured an entry between Pick Avenue and Vine Avenue. Lieut. E. R. Capper led bombing parties of the Essex and 7th Norfolks and drove their assailants south to within fifteen yards of the junction of Pick Avenue. The good work was completed by the 7th Norfolks later in the morning, when they recovered occupation of the original line. This gallant exploit was happily light in casualties, and these were mainly caused by artillery.
The war diary entry for the 2nd and 3rd August reads as follows:
Thu., Aug 2, 1917
A very quiet day till 6 p.m. At that hour the enemy opened heavy fire on the left sub-sector of the Brigade front occupied by the 7th Bn Norfolk Regt. The Bombardment also fell on the support trench of our left Coy, and the trench was practically obliterated. Firing was intense till about 12.30 a.m. (3rd inst) and during that time the enemy attacked and, secured an entry into the front line between PICH AVENUE and VINE AVENUE, his RIGHT being about O 8 b 5 7 and his LEFT about O 8 b 2 2. The Right Coy of Norfolk fell back on our Left Coy, but later in the proceeding 2nd. LT. E. R. CAPPER of this Bn led Bombing Parties first of our Bn & later of 7th Norfolk Regt and succeeded in driving the enemy back to within 15 yards S of the junction of PICK AVENUE and the front line. The 7th Norfolk also attacked & by 10 A.M. 3rd inst the original line held by that unit was again in their sole occupation. Our casualties were slight and were mostly caused by Artillery.
www.chailey1914-1918.net/joseph_french.html
***********************CSM Fred G Fox *******************************
Name: FOX Initials: F G
Rank: Company Serjeant Major
Regiment: East Yorkshire Regiment Unit Text: 11th Bn.
Age: 26 Date of Death: 31/03/1918
Service No: 220033
Additional information: Husband of Mrs. Fox, of 7, Fisher’s Buildings, Grapes Hill, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: B. 2. Cemetery: ST. HILAIRE CEMETERY EXTENSION, FREVENT
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=528201
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms that the CWGC man is a Frederick G.but gives his rank as Sergeant.
A web-site dedicated to the East Yorkshire Regiment confirms that Fredrick, (note spelling) George Fox was born Norwich, enlisted Norwich, and was formerly 4558 Norfolk Regiment. He is listed as Sergeant rather than CSM, and it is noted that he died of his wounds on this day.
www.east-yorkshire-regiment.co.uk/db/troops/result.php?se…
From its position, Frevent was a place of some importance on the lines of communication during the First World War. The 43rd Casualty Clearing Station was posted there from April to June 1916, part of the Lucknow Casualty Clearing Station in June, the 6th Stationary Hospital from June 1916 to the end of August 1918, and the 3rd Canadian, 19th and 43rd Casualty Clearing Stations in the summer of 1918. The great majority of the burials in the cemetery were carried out from these hospitals.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=200001…
The 1911 Census has a Fred George Fox, born Norwich circa 1892 and still recorded in the city.
On the 1901 Census he is listed as Freddy, and is recorded at 1, Martineau Lane. This is the household of his parents, Henry, (aged 37 and a General Dealer from Trowse, Norfolk) and Mary A. (aged 34 and from East Ruston. Their other children are:-
May Clarke…………..aged 15.…………born Norwich….(presumably Mary’s from a previous marriage)
Albert………………..aged 10.………..born Norwich
Alice M………………aged 4.………….born Norwich
George B…………….aged 1.………….born Norwich
Henry………………..aged 11.…………born Norwich
Nelly…………………aged 13.…………born Norwich
Reginald……………..aged 3.………….born Norwich
William………………aged 6.…………born Norwich
CSM Fox probably died as a result of wounds received at Ayette on the 27th.
Dawn on 27th March found 92nd Brigade on the right flank of 31st Division in front of the village of Ayette, 9 miles (15km) south of Arras. At the front of the Brigade, the 11th East Yorkshire Regt. (Hull Tradesmen) and the 11th East Lancashire Regt. (Accrington Pals) held the ridge east of the Ablainzevelle-Moyenneville road, while the 10th East Yorkshire Regt. (Hull Commercials) was held in reserve. The situation was already critical; the left flank of the Brigade was under threat from German troops advancing through Moyenneville, no wire was available to protect the line, and the right flank was severely stretched by the need to keep in touch with 126th Brigade to the south. To make matters worse, the Brigade’s positions had been hit by short-falling British artillery fire during the previous afternoon and night.
Following an intense artillery bombardment, the German 16th Bavarian Division made its first infantry attack on the 92nd Brigade front at 11.17am. After more than 30 minutes of desperate fighting at close range – during which the 11th East Yorkshires were forced back – the entire Brigade line was restored by a local counter-attack. The attacks were renewed at noon and at 12.20pm. At around this time, the forward sections of 2/Lt. Horsfall’s platoon at the centre-left of the East Lancashires’ front were driven back from the crest of the ridge. Although Horsfall had been severely wounded in the head, he immediately organised the remainder of his men and successfully counter-attacked to recover the original position. On hearing that of the remaining three officers of his company two had been killed and one wounded, he refused to go to the dressing station. Later his platoon had to fall back to escape very heavy shell fire but, as soon as the shelling lifted, he made a second counter-attack and again recovered the position.
In the early afternoon, considerable German forces were seen to be collecting in Ablainzevelle, posing a serious threat to the right flank of the Brigade. A company of the 10th East Yorkshires was sent forward in support but was stopped short by heavy machine-gun fire from the village.
By 2.40pm the Germans had gained a foothold on the ridge at the junction of the two forward battalions. The remainder of the supporting 10th East Yorkshire Regt. was used up in a successful counter-attack. As late in the afternoon as 3.45pm, hopes remained high that the Brigade’s position could be held. Finally, however, the pressure told and both flanks gave way. By 4.25pm, 92nd Brigade’s situation finally became untenable; with telephone wires hopelessly cut and with mist rendering signalling impossible, Lt.-Col. Rickman – as the senior officer on the spot – informed Divisional Headquarters by pigeon of his decision to withdraw the Brigade. Horsfall was the last East Lancashire officer to leave his position and, although exhausted, said he could have held on. This gallant officer was killed during the retirement.
In their stubborn defence of Ayette, 350 officers and men of the 11th East Lancashire Regt. were killed, wounded or missing. The casualty list would have been longer still had it not been for the gallantry of Lewis gunners led by 2/Lt. Herbert Laycock who covered the retirement of the wounded and M.O.’s staff.
www.pals.org.uk/ayette.htm
****************************Corporal Robert H Carriage*******************************
Name: CARRIAGE, ROBERT HENRY
Rank: Corporal
Regiment: Essex Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 26/08/1914 Service No: 9439
Memorial: LA FERTE-SOUS-JOUARRE MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=878044
The La Ferte-sous-Jouarre Memorial commemorates nearly 4,000 officers and men of the British Expeditionary Force who died in August, September and the early part of October 1914 and who have no known grave. The monument consists of a rectangular block of stone, 62 feet by 30 feet and 24 feet high, with the names of the dead engraved on stone panels on all sides of the monument. The monument is surmounted by a sarcophagus and a trophy carved in stone. At the four corners of the pavement are stone piers with urns, carved with the coats of arms of the Empire. The memorial was designed by G.H. Goldsmith and unveiled by Sir William Pulteney on 4 November 1928.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=79100&…
No match on Norlink
There is no obvious match on the 1901 or 1911 Census for either a Robert or Henry Carriage – there is one Henry but he is recorded as being already at Sea with the Royal Navy on the 1901 census. . However, looking at just the surname Carriage with a Norwich connection on the 1901 census, throws up one possible – Bobby Carriage, (aged 9, born Norwich) and recorded at 7, Unicorn Yard, Oak Street, in the Parish of St Marys. This is the household of his mother, Eliza, aged 31 and from Norwich. She is recorded as married, but presumably her husband was absent on the night of the census. Her other children are:
B Violet………………aged 5.……..born Norwich
George………………..aged 7.………born Norwich
Jonas………………….aged 5 months…born Norwich
Percy…………………aged 11.………born Norwich
William………………aged 3.………..born Norwich.
Making up the household is Eliza’s father, Henry Frost, aged 74 and a widower, described as a jobbing Blacksmith from Norwich.
There a number of photographs of the 2nd Essex quartered in Norwich Market Place on the 10th August 1914, prior to moving to France.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn…
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn…
Robert may well be amongst them, pointing out the sights to his comrades. Amongst the on-lookers may well be his mother or some of his siblings.
The 2nd Essex were involved in the Battle of Le Cateau on this day.
War Diary entry for Aug. 26th, 1914:
“Casualties – Cap Vandeleur, 9 men killed Lt. Round (since dead) Lt. Smith Masters & 40 men wounded. Lt. Northey (3rd Bn) & 98 men missing.
— signed F.Gore Anley, Lieut. Colonel, O.C. 2nd Bn Essex Regiment.”
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=28986
By all accounts this was the 2nd Essex baptism of fire having arrived in France in time to be rushed to join up with the retreating British 11 Corps, whose commander chose to make a stand at Le Cateau,
**********************L\Corporal Alfred M Cossey************************************
Name: COSSEY, ALFRED MCPHERSON
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 22 Date of Death: 23/04/1917
Service No: 43165
Additional information: Son of John and Mary Cossey, of 16, Pitt St., Norwich.
Memorial Reference: Bay 3. Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=745608
No match on Norlink
Alfred McPherson Cossey was born circa 1895 at Brighouse, Yorkshire, and certainly by the time of the 1911, he was recorded in Norwich.. At the time of the 1901 census, the 6 year old Alfred was recorded at 25 Bradford Road, Brighouse. This was the household of his parents, John , (aged 32 and a Chemist and Druggist from Norwich), and Mary, (aged 33 and from Ireland). The Cossey’s have another son, Sidney James, aged 7, who was born in Ireland.
According to one source, there was a John Cossey trading as a Chemist and Druggist in St Augustine’s , but as this was before 1879, this was presumably John’s father.
www.staugustinesnorwich.org.uk/Gallery_2_-_DeCarles.html
23rd April 1917 – from the War diary of the 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment who went into action alongside 1st Norfolks.
Appendix XII. OPERATION ORDER No.73. Map Reference VIMY Scale 1/10,000. 22nd April 1917.
1. ATTACK. The 5th Division will attack and capture S Trenches from VIMY-AVIONS Railway to the SOUCHEZ Railway.
2. POSITION. 15th Infantry Brigade will attack on the right. 95th Infantry Brigade will attack on the left. 15th Infantry Brigade will attack with first Battalion Norfolk Regiment and 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment on the left. (95th Infantry Brigade on the left of 1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment.)
3. BOUNDARIES. 1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment – Right T.1.c.80/60 – T.1.d.10/90. Left S.6.central to junction of railway and road at N.31.c.95/90 exclusive.
4. OBJECTIVES. 1st Objective T.1.b.10/10 to T.1.b.0/6 thence to N.31.c.3/1. 2nd Objective T.1.b.60/85 to N.31.d.20/50 thence to 31.c.95/90.
5. BARRAGE. On German front line from Zero to Zero plus ten. German second line (1st objective) from Zero plus 10 to Zero plus 14. About 100 yards (1st objective) a pause of 24 minutes will be observed. It then creeps forward at a rate of 100 yards in 4 minutes until it reaches the outskirts of AVION.
6. GENERAL METHOD. A & B Companies will take the first objective with two platoons each in first wave and two platoons in second wave. A Coy. on the right, B Coy. on the left.
C & D Companies will take second objective, “C” on the right, “D” on the left.
Dividing line between Companies – T.1.a.7/7 (where LENS – ARRAS road crosses German second line) to N.31.d.3/3.
7. DETAILED METHOD. From 30 yards our side of Outpost Line.
A Company. 1st platoon of this company that moves will avoid CYRIL TRENCH on East side of the road and close to it will deploy 150 yards from the road. 2nd platoon will follow this one keeping along the road and from 200 yards to 400 yards will change direction man by man and lay in the ditch in the road. The advance will be made from the left about half hour after deployment. 3rd platoon will attack the triangle at T.1 central and enfiladed with — (1) Bombs below ground (2) Lewis Guns on top – the WATER TOWER TRENCH and FOSSE No.7 TRENCH. 4th platoon will support the 3rd and act as Moppers Up for the whole company. Touch must be kept with the 1st Norfolk Regiment on the right and the whole triangle including junction of CYRIL TRENCH taken.
B Company. Right on LENS – ARRAS road and left on left boundary keeping touch with 95th Infantry Brigade. The first two platoons will go straight to their objectives and the second two platoons will get into the German front line and mop up.
C & D Companies will advance at 100 yards distance from assaulting companies and will get into A & B Companies objective as soon as it is taken. They will wait in this trench until barrage moves forward from stationary line Zero plus 38 when they will move forward to final objective behind the barrage.
8. Watches to be syncronised at Commanding Officers conference.
9. FIRING. There will be no firing or bombing until after barrage had opened. If parties are met they will be bayoneted.
10. COMMUNICATION. I Power Busser junction of A & B Companies in first objective. Visual should be possible at south end of same wall to a point to be notified.
11. CONTACT AEROPLANE. Will fly at Zero plus 1 hour and Zero plus 2 hours. Flares will be lit if called for by KLAXON HORN and in places as invisible as possible from the enemy. Only front line troops will light them.
12. S.O.S. See V.P.A.
13. TIME TABLE. Time table and detail for relief of 15th Bn. Royal Warwickshire Regiment as attached. Previous time tale to be cancelled.
14. ROYAL ENGINEERS. R.E. i/c section will report to Battalion headquarters at 2am.
15. PRISONERS. To be collected in CYRIL TRENCH. 16th Royal Warwickshire Regt. to arrange escorts.
16. ZERO HOUR. 4.45am
17. FLAGS. Flags will be carried and not stuck in the ground.
18. BATTALION H.Q. Battalion Headquarters at S.12.b.8/1
Please acknowledge.
(Signed) Beale Lt. & Adjt., 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.
Report on action at La Coulotte.. Lt. Colonel P.B. Worrall M.C. Commanding 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.
Sir, I have the honour to report that I received orders to attack LA COULOTTE from T.1.d.1/9 to T.1.a.3/9. and attach a copy of my Operation Orders which I personally explained in detail to all Officers and NCO’s. Briefly, I had to make:
(a) a frontal attack to the N.
(b) a flank attack East on WATER TOWER TRENCH.
AND (c) attack on triangle south of WATER TRENCH from the south, including a large part of CYRIL TRENCH held by the Germans.
The whole undertaking seemed to be most hazardous.
I considered the WATER TOWER TRENCH to be key to the situation and so attacked it frontally and in enfilade. Had I not got this footing, my Battalion must haave been wiped out by WATER TOWER TRENCH if we were held up by wire.
NARRATIVE.
4.40am. For half an hour previous to this I heard no M.G. fire and this proved a successful deployment.
5.15am. Two wounded reported that left company had reached 1st line German trench. It proved afterwards to be correct but with regard to extreme left only.
6.15am. 24 prisoners marched in from DEVONS and BEDFORDS captured at the junction of these two Battalions. 6.5am O.C. right assault company reported wounded but right company going through gaps. This Officer in charge and many others afterwards reported that it took at least five minutes to get through the wire, that there were few gaps, and a double belt (the first one 15 yards thick) in front of the first line.
7.05am. Touch with NORFOLKS reported.
7.55amj. Right 2nd wave (“C” Coy.) report they had passed through first objective (second German line) met with strong resistance, machine gun fire from houses and minerwerfer, but captured 9 prisoners (sent back), and 2 machine guns which they later smashed, and parties actually reached buildings T.1.b.5/9 and made a great attempt to rush LA COULOTTE from there, patrols were also sent out from there to try and get touch with the NORFOLKS , and companies on the left.
9.50am. NCO’s from “B” and “D” (left companies) reported that their right was held up, they had been surrounded and several prisoners had been taken. I have satisfied myself that these men were between two belts of wire with wire and a communication trench on the right from which they were enfiladed, and the gaps through which they had advanced were covered, and that they were bombed from the front and like rats in a trap.
Lt. Hunter from the right and who was on the other side of the road witnessed it and stated they were absolutely powerless.
10.00am. I sent orders to “A” and “C” to hang on and throw a defensive flank from junction of LENS-ARRAS ROAD and 1st German line and make strenuous efforts to get in touch with “B” and “D” .
11.05am. Lt. Woodford wounded, reported that “B” and “D” took the German 2nd line and were at once driven out of it with the exception of extreme left (communication trench T.1.a.30/95). Capt. C.A.S. Morris O.C. B Company was killed in rallying his men to make a gallant attack on machine guns, holding up their advance from 2nd line. At the same time I received a message that the remnants of A and C Companies were under 100 in WATER TOWER TRENCH and TRIANGLE, and that there were some NORFOLKS fighting with them and that they could not hold out much longer. They asked for reinforcements and bombs.
1.30pm. I applied at once for permission to conduct retirement in person but on this being refused I despatched Lt.H.J.EVERERTT MC with all available men from headquarters with 700 bombs and detailed orders for retirement if forced back, and I considered it imperative:
1. To hold the strong point in CYRIL TRENCH and not save the OUTPOST LINE
2. To evacuate my wounded (some 30) in the TUNNEL before evacuation.
My orders were more than carried out, the bombs were taken up under heavy fire, though some sent up by another Regiment failed to arrive, a splendid attack was led by a Sergeant of the NORFOLKS before the withdrawal, all the wounded were got away, and barricade strengthened before withdrawal.
[Cannot read time]. Verbal message received that A and C Companies had withdrawn to our original OUTPOST LINE and that Lt. H.J.EVERETT MC again sent up with a further supply of ammunition and bombs for strong point in CYRIL TRENCH.
[Cannot read time]. My position at the time of this withdrawal was:
1. About 60 men of “A” and “C”, all me effective rifles and some NORFOLKS from about T.1.a.6/7 to T.1.a.9/0 (German Front Line).
2. On my left from T.1.a.5/6 to T.1.a.1/8 the remnants of “B” and “D” lying out in front of German Wire till dusk, being continually bombed, grenaded and minenwerfened.
[Cannot read time]. A proportion of “B” and “D” Companies withdrew under the smoke of a protective barrage on German 2nd Line trench, to left of OLD OUTPOST LINE.
Copy of orders of my forced retirement attached.
I consider that my Officers, NCO’s and men showed great devotion to duty against untold odds, particularly wire and machine guns and I am forwarding under separate cover a list of recommendations.
I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient servant
P.R.WORRALL, Lt.Colonel commanding 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/1stbtn/1stbtn1917appendices.html
***************************L\Corporal Arthur J Rowell********************************
No Arthur J listed on the CWGC database, and while there are 3 potential matches on CWGC for an A\Arthur\Arthur +, again no immediate candidates.
Arthur 18/1549 2nd Battn Durham Light Infantry, Died 21/03/1918
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1637814
Arthur 75597 1st/9th Battn Durham Light Infantry Died 21/07/1918
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1759994
Arthur Edward 3/9585 2nd Battn Yorkshire Regiment Age 41 Died 04/05/1916
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=21082
No match on Norlink
Great War Roll of Honour
Arthur DLI 75597 1918
Arthur DLI 18/1549 1918
Arthur E YR 3/9585 1916
Possible 1911 Census matches.
Arthur John born Dublin circa 1889, current whereabouts not listed
Arthur John born Crabbs Abbey, Downham, Norfolk circa 1879 now at St Ives (Presumably Cambridgeshire rather than Cornwall)
Other Arthur’s with a Norfolk background.
Arthur born Rudham circa 1896 now at Kings Lynn (however the likely baptismal certificate shows him as Arthur Maurice)
**********************L\Corporal Alfred Linge**************************************
Only possible match on the CWGC database
Name: LINGE Initials: A
Rank: Private
Regiment: East Surrey Regiment Unit Text: 12th Bn.
Age: 19 Date of Death: 22/10/1918
Service No: 48455
Additional information: Son of Stephen Linge, of Croxton, Thetford, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XXXV. A. 57. Cemetery: LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=145666
The Great War roll of honour confirms this is an Alfred.
No match on Norlink
This individual is also commemorated on the Croxton War Memorial.
www.breckland-rollofhonour.org.uk/croxton.html
There is no obvious match for Alfred on either the 1901 or 1911 census. There is no obvious match for Stephen on the 1901 census – at least not in the Genes Re-united transcription. The 1911 census has a Stephen Linge who was born Thetford, circa 1856, and who was now recorded in the District of Swaffham.
A search based on the surname Linge and Swaffahm to try and identify possible family members throws up 33 individuals who are recorded in the district, including an “Alfurd”, born circa 1900 at Croxton.
Battalion War diary.
20th October 1918
The Battn moved to COURTRAI where they rested in billets during theday.
21st October 1918
The Battn moving to forming up area in C.7.a and attacked at 07.15. C and D Coys front line. A & B Support.
A & C on left, B&D on right. The attack reached a line O.EE.a.3.2 to O.22.O. Central Battn HQ at H.21.C.2.2 .
2/Lt G H Savage killed.
22nd October 1918
Orders were received for the Battn to cross the CAMBRAI-ESSUYT CANAL and prepare to attack at 9.00. A, B & D Coys crossed the canal. C Coy was held up by M.G fire. Captn Ryan was killed.The battm eas relieved at 23.59 by 23rd Middlesex and moved to area O.9.c and O.8.b
qrrarchive.websds.net/PDF/ES01219181007.pdf
The 41st Division, of which 12th East Surrey’s was a part lists amongst it battle honours
Battle of Courtrai. 14-19 Oct 1918.
Action of Ooteghern. 25 Oct 1918.
warpath.orbat.com/divs/41_div.htm
This action obviously falls between them.
*************************L\Corporal George R Scott******************************
Probably
Name: SCOTT, GEORGE ROBERT
Rank: Corporal
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 04/09/1916
Service No: 7185
Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=811645
No match on Norlink
The most likely match on the 1911 Census is a George Robert, born circa 1889, at, (according to the Genes Re-united transcript), Ketts Hill, Norwich. No current location is shown. Unfortunately there is also another George Scott born circa 1889 in Norwich, and who is still resident in the city, along with a number of other George Scott’s with no middle name, a Norwich connection and of a likely age to have served in the Great War.
Both individuals can be found on the 1901 census.
The first, George, (aged 12 and born Norwich), is recorded at 32 Glebe Road, Norwich. This is the household of his step-father, Edward Palmer, (aged 47 and a Museum Attendant from Norwich) and his mother, Jane, (aged 40 and from Norwich). The Palmer’s have two children of heir own, Sidney, (aged 3) and William, (aged u/1) – both born Norwich, plus George and a brother Arthur, (aged 11).
I tend to discount this George, as his step-brother Sidney did die in the War and is commemorated on the local war memorial for that part of the city. If George fell, you would expect him to be recorded there as well as St Augustine’s – but he is not.
www.flickr.com/photos/43688219@N00/3445748212/
Of course George would have been old enough to have moved out and even married by the time that war broke-out, and so St Augustine’s could by then have been his local church.
More likely then is the other candidate from the 1901 census, George, (aged 13 and born Norwich), recorded at 2 Blakeleys Yard, St Marys, Norwich. This would have been a few minutes walk away from St Augustines. This is the household of his parents, Thomas, (aged 55 and a Wire worker from Norwich), and Eliza, (aged 48 and a Charwoman from Norwich).
The tragedy of Falfemont. The attack was held up and casualties were being caused by bombing and small arms fire before they eventually took the objective only to come under friendly artillery fire that caused serious casualties. According to the Regimental casualty book 56 all ranks were killed, 219 wounded and 94 missing, believed killed, a total of 369. The battalion was relieved the next day.
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t…
*****************************L\Corporal C Wills************************************
No obvious match on CWGC
No match on Norlink
Possible
Name: WILLS Initials: C
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment/Service: London Regiment Unit Text: 1st/10th Bn.
Date of Death: 03/05/1917 Service No: 420116
Grave/Memorial Reference: D. 111. Cemetery: ALEXANDRIA (HADRA) WAR MEMORIAL CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=477408
Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is a Charles Wills.
No obvious match on the 1901 or 1911 census for a C Wills with a Norfolk connection.
**********************L\Corporal Clarence F Measham*************************
No C F, only 4 entries for the surname Measham on the CWGC database, none with any obvious connection to Norfolk. Intriguingly, the Great War Roll of Honour has 5 individuals with the surname Measham, however the extra individual is still not our Clarence F.
No match on Norlink
There is no Clarence Measham on the 1891, 1901 or 1911 census for England and Wales.. There is no Measham’s recorded with a Norfolk link either.
