26.6.1916 GAUDIEMPRE: 2/Lt E Kershaw joined from England.

War Diary [WO/95/2694]

June 26: During the last month of course we have been preparing for an attack. The weather has caused it to be postponed so at least we are having a rest.

[Lieutenant Josiah Taylor]

26: The is “W” day. Wire cutting & bombardment continued on enemy front.

From 9-45 am to 10.35 am his front was subjected to an “intense bombardment” – to look at this appeared very ordinary. There were lots of 19 Pdrs busy but very few howitzers & heavies and altogether it was a — affair to look at.

At 10.50 smoke was turned on and up to the point this enemy had not sent very much back, but he now began to shell our front line freely, but did not pay much attention to our back lines. We had only two casualties – one liked and one wounded. It is hoped the Germans suffered more.

The patrols who went out late at night reported the cutting of the enemies wire on the right as satisfactorily.

The weather is not improving – the men are having a very hard time of it & sticking it very well.

139 Infantry Brigade: Headquarters War Diary [WO95/2692]