| Regiment | 1st Wiltshire |
|---|---|
| Location | France, Leipzig Salient |
| Entry | In the trenches. Orders had been received previously that the Battn would take the trenches R31.C.78, R31.A.48, R.31.a5.5, R.31.a.9.41, R.31.a9.3, R.31.b.0.3, 2.3,3.2,3.1,5.1,5.0, R31.d.7..9,9.8. Late on the night of the 2nd/3rd written orders were received that the only attack to be made were upon the lines, R.31.C.4.6 to R.31.a.5.5 and upon R.31.c.7.6 to R.31.a.9.1, R.31.d.4.8., R.31.d.07. This meant that both the flanks of this Battn were exposed. The Battn arrived in position in trenches at 2.30 without casualty in spite of heavy shelling. The intense bombardment began at 5.10a.m. and the troops moved out of the trenches and formed up about 50 yards off and advanced upon their objective. As soon as they had left the trench they were met by a heavy 'whizbang' fire, and almost at the same time machine guns from either flank opened upon them. Our right Coy (D) stated that they got into the enemy trench and were wiped out by our own barrage which did not lift in time. The centre and left Coys report that their heavy losses were due to machine gun fire from both flanks. By the time they reached their objective they were numerically inferior to the enemy. The left Coy reached and occupied R.31.C.8.9. And made a block there. The few men in the other Coys who reached the enemy trench were forced to retire owing to their lack of numbers. The true position was not known at this time, and the reserve Coy was sent up to strengthen the line, but as far as could be ascertained, they were knocked out by machine gun fire from the flanks. Shortly after the officers commanding right and centre Coys reported that they had been able to get back with infinite difficulty, and very few men and that the attack had failed. The CO was hit by a bullet in the leg. Five other officers became casualties. At about 11a.m. orders were received that the Battn should proceed back in small parties to BOUZINCOURT, which was duly undertaken. The last of the Battn arrived at their billets at about 5p.m. Recommendation for Award Sir I have the honour to bring to your notice the conduct of No 8404 Pte Rogers E and No 11941 Pte English W during the recent operations. On the 3rd September 1916 Pte Rogers and Pte English laid a cable in face of heavy Artillery and Machine gun fire. During the heavy bombardment of the 3rd Sept 1916 these two men repeatedly (sic) went out to repair the lines and by their coolness and energy communication was kept up with the front line. I have the honour to be Your obedient servant H Carter Sergt. |
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