| Regiment | 5th Wiltshire |
|---|---|
| Location | Gallipoli, Anzac |
| Entry | Letter received from Major G. Rumsey dated 20.November 1930 The Director Historical Section (Military Branch) Sir, I enclose an account of the disaster that overtook the 5th Bn. Wiltshire Regiment as far as I could ascertain from the survivors. Being wounded on the 8th and evacuated on the 9th August, I unfortunately took no part in the operations of 9th-10th. I am, Yours obediently G. Rumsey ---------------------------------------------------------------------- CH.26 page 7 The 5th Bn. Wiltshire Regt. After consolidating the position on the Damakjelik Beir (Lieut Belcher was killed and Capt. Spencer wounded during the night operations of 7th/8th was withdrawn on the 8th/9th August to the head of the Aghyl Dere gully. On the evening of the 9th the battalion moved up the slope of the hill and went into bivouac on the side of the hill in support of the 6/S. Lancs. Who occupied the trenches of the New Zealanders. Two platoons under Major S. Hern moved out to the left in support of the Gurkhas. Just before dawn of the 10th the 5th Wiltshire Regt. was overwhelmed in their bivouac before they could "stand to" (no alarm had been given), by the division of Turks brought over from Asia who advanced down the slope in mass. The two platoons under Major Hern (who was killed) having their right flank turned, were forced to retire with the Gurkhas by way of Dead Man's Gully. These two platoons and a few stragglers were all that was left of the Battalion. Lieut-Col Carden and all officers with exception of two subalterns being killed. G. Rumsey, Major Q,MR. Wiltshire Regt. |
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