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One hundred years ago on 19 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Visibility good. Enemy aeroplanes were very active in the morning but quieter in the afternoon. There were no balloons up. Enemy artillery was quieter than usual confining his shelling to bursts of fire over a wide area and some counter-battery work in the afternoon. At 3.25 pm an S.O.S. signal went up on our front to which all batteries responded promptly and during this time the enemy shelled our front line and supports heavily. During the morning considerable enemy movement was seen around the BOIS DE QUATORES all of which was fired on. There was also a great deal of train and transport movement between MUERCHIN and CARVIN. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - Visibility good. Our aeroplanes were active all day particularly in the morning. The enemy artillery was normal except for the early morning when a barrage was put on our front line and supports, and some gas shells fired on LOOS and some heavy counter battery shoots on the 1st. C.D.A. Our artillery responded to an S.O.S. in the early morning. the usual movement was observed in the enemy back areas. In accordance with G.559/69 dated 18-8-1917 "B" Battery, R.C.H.A. Brigade was withdrawn from control of C.H.A. 3rd. C.D.A., being attached to Ralston's Group. Redistribution of artillery was also notified by this letter, taking effect on the night of 18th/19th, August 1917. Ammunition expended A.4472., AX.1169., HX. 523. Guns in action 31 18-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - During the month of August the Battery took part in the capture of Hill 70, also the taking of the Green Crasier and all the fighting on the Lens front. During this time the Battery was twice heavily shelled by 8” and on several occasions we were bombarded with Gas Shells. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Two men of the 9th CSB., wounded by shell fire. Aloof, Aconite, Alpaca and Cinnibar Trenches fired upon during the day also several concentrations took place on Cite Du Nord, Noyelles and Cite du Grand Conde. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Fair and cloudy. Visibility good. 5 CSB. Detached from Group. 2nd Section 70th Siege Bty. Attached for tactics. A number of successful destructive shoots carried out and a large number of hostile batteries silenced with ground observation. Supported a minor offensive on 4th Div. front reported successful. Considerable neutralization and harassing fire throughout day and night. Ammunition expended:- 60-pr. 8”How 6”How 4.5”How 468 735 792 1206 General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - WEATHER: Mainly fair, cloudy - warmer. Artillery concentrations and feint barrages carried out by all available artillery of Canadian Corps. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. One hundred years ago on 18 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Visibility good. Enemy aeroplanes were very active all day, crossing our lines 9 times. The enemy balloons were observed during the day. Enemy artillery was very active throughout the day on our front line and supports. LOOS and the rear areas, and in the night between 1.00 am and 3.00 am several thousand gas shells were fired on our battery positions. Our heavy artillery was very active during the day, bombarding the BOIS DE QUATORES, BOIS DIX-NUIT and the enemy front line. There was a marked increase in enemy movement in the front area. Considerable traffic of motor trucks and transports were observed on the MUERCHIN-GAVEN road. During the night the enemy used three search lights at different times, trying to pick up our aeroplanes. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - Visibility misty at first, becoming clear later. LOOS and vicinity were shelled during the early morning with gas. The enemy also barraged our front line on dirrerent occassions. Enemy ballloons were up and their aeroplanes were active. Our planes were active and our heavy artillery bombarded enemy trenches and supports all day. G.574/9 dated 14-8 was cancelled 17-8-17, and the skeleton battery under Major McKinnon D.S.O. returned to duty today. Ammunition expended A.5771., AX.1850., HX.1284., N.779., NX.309. Guns in action, 28 18-pdrs., 4 13-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - During the month of August the Battery took part in the capture of Hill 70, also the taking of the Green Crasier and all the fighting on the Lens front. During this time the Battery was twice heavily shelled by 8” and on several occasions we were bombarded with Gas Shells. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Successful aeroplane shoots by 72nd SAHA on Aconite trench. Gas courses started at Canadian Corps Gas School, Mine buildings, near Hersin. These courses last six full days and 1 to 2 officers and N.C.O's are detailed weekly to attend. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Fair, cloudy, high wind. At 4.35 a.m. supported attack by 4th Div. against positions in N.13.a. & c. reported successful. A number of destructive shoots with aeroplane observation reported successful. A great deal of general neutralization fire throughout day. 4 SOS. Answered to stop heavy hostile shelling. Enemy shelling very active. Ammunition expended:- 60-pr. 8”How 6”How 9.2”How 4.5”How 836 405 1026 - 666 General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - WEATHER: Cloudy with some rain - cooler. instructions from General Staff, preparations to be made for continuance of the offensive at an early date. See Artillery Orders No's 64 and 65 issued 16th & 18th inst. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. The Vancouver Artillery Association has been busy with displays at the Abbotsford Agrifair and the Abbotsford Airshow. This is part of the Association's mandate of showcasing artillery history to the public. Thanks to Bob Mugford, Ernie Kovacs, Doug Loney, Don Foster and Ralph Webb. Awesome work guys! Hope you had fun! Always room for more volunteers. Check out the rest of the pictures in the 2017 yearbook. Next event will be in Richmond on Saturday 19 August at the All Aboard! event at the Steveston Interurban Tram Building and Steveston Museum from 12:00 until 4:00. C'mon out and say hi! One hundred years ago on 17 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Enemy aeroplanes were very active all day, some of them crossing our front line. 3 balloons were also up. The enemy intermittently shelled our whole zone and fired about 100 rounds of 8" on the Dressing Station on the BETHUNE ROAD. At 9.42 pm an S.O.S. was sent up on our front and the enemy laid down a heavy barrage on the whole brigade ? Considerable movement of men was seen coming from VERDIN towards the BOIS DIN-NUIT. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - Visibility good; in the early morning the enemy made an attack on our right front covered by a heavy barrage. This was broken up by our artillery. Enemy and British artillery were active all day. Enemy aeroplanes flew low over our lines attempting to make reconnaissances of our new front. Much movement was observed, mostly in ones and twos moving quickly. Some larger parties were engaged by our field guns. LOOS was heavily shelled by the gas shells, both poisonous and the new "mustard" gas. Nearly 500 casualties were reported, about 4% fatal. An S.O.S. was being fired at the time the enemy were shelling with gas which accounts for the casualties among the gunners. Two S.O.S. signals were responded to. Ammunition expended A.5639., AX.1546., HX.1328., N.900. Guns in action 33 18-pdrs., 4 13-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - During the month of August the Battery took part in the capture of Hill 70, also the taking of the Green Crasier and all the fighting on the Lens front. During this time the Battery was twice heavily shelled by 8” and on several occasions we were bombarded with Gas Shells. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Carried out usual program of trench destruction and harassing fire. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Fair. Cloudy. Visibility fair. Fairly quiet during early part of day. A number of successful destructive shoots carried out during the day. A number of ground observation shoots carried out successfully together with a fairly active day on general neutralization and harassing fire. Ammunition expended:- 60-pr. 8”How 6”How 9.2”How 4.5”How 1097 564 818 327 1522 General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - WEATHER: Overcast, some showers - rather warm. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. One hundred years ago on 16 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Visibility fair. A few enemy planes patrolled their own lines during the morning. Four enemy balloons were up. The enemy appears to be working on his front line trenches which have been badly knocked about by our fire. Less enemy movement seen than usual. Considerable traffic was again observed in the rear areas and several trains were also seen going into CARVIN. An enemy anti-aircraft battery was observed near VERDIN and our heavies took it on and caused a large explosion. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - Mist obscured observation during the morning. This cleared and observation was fairly good during the day. Many enemy balloons were up and their aeroplanes were very active all day, particularly in defensive work towards the evening when they prevented our planes crossing their lines. The enemy bombarded the whole area which we captured as well as our communication trenches and LOOS. Our artillery was very active; several S.O.S. signals being answered. New work was carried out in several places by the enemy, and our front line was consolidated and improved. A great deal of movement was noticed, and probably the moving wounded caused a lot of this. In accordance with G.574/9 dated 14-8-17, Skeleton Brigade C.D.A. under command of Major D.A. McKinnon, D.S.O. left BRAQUEMONT at 9.30 a.m. to take part in 3rd. Canadian Division manoeuvres. Lt. Col. Hurdman, 3rd. C.D.A.O. and A/Staff Captain McKnight left later in the day to act as artillery referees. Ammunition expended A.11855., AX.3487. HX.6491., N.1880., NX.330. Guns in action 27 18-pdrs., 4 13-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - During the month of August the Battery took part in the capture of Hill 70, also the taking of the Green Crasier and all the fighting on the Lens front. During this time the Battery was twice heavily shelled by 8” and on several occasions we were bombarded with Gas Shells. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Successful destructive shoots carried out by 9th, 72nd and 175th Siege Batteries on wire in front of Cinnibar trench. S.O.S. calls answered. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Fair. High wind. Very quiet during morning. About 1 p.m. a heavy shelling of our new 1st and 2nd Div. fronts by enemy artillery. Enemy counterattacked at 7.30 p.m., pushing back 1st Div. a short distance. Supported attack by 2nd Cdn Div. against CINNABAR Trench in N.8.d. Answered 3 SOS. During day, two for CITE ST LAURENT and one AVION area. Two destructive shoots with aeroplane observation carried out successfully. Ammunition expended:- 60-pr. 8”How 6”How 9.2”How 4.5”How 1043 891 1348 287 1996 General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - By 12.30 am all was reported quiet. Apparently no infantry action. Exact origin of SOS not yet ascertained. WEATHER: Fair and bright - some showers. 1.49 am SOS from right battalion front of 1st Canadian Division. 1.55 am SOS from left battalion front of 2nd Canadian Division. 2.10 am the above SOS was still going. Free use of MUSTARD GAS on the 1st Canadian Divisional Artillery Batteries near LOOS. 2.30 am Situation normal again on 1st Canadian Division front. Apparently no infantry action. At 4.20 am German barrage along the whole of 1st and 2nd Canadian Division fronts. SOS has been sent up. 5.10 am From 2nd CDA Two planes flying low over our lines. 5.15 am From 2nd CDA Germans reported to have entered our trenches on the right. 5.30 am From 2nd CDA Boche in CHICORY Trench between COMBAT and CONDUCTOR Trenches. 5.45 am From 2nd CDA Line again intact, a few German prisoners taken. 5.55 am From 2nd CDA Line intact on the left. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. One hundred years ago on 15 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Visibility good. Operation Order No. 100 was carried out today starting at 4.36 am and special reports by Lieut. R.T. Macaulay, Group F.O.O. and Lieut. J.R. Jamieson, F.O.O. Bgd? Battery, C.F.A.?, are attached hereto. The enemy barrage was very heavy on the zone to our right but later in the day became very intense on our front. The infantry reached their final objective, ? on Hill 70?, on schedule time. Several counter-attacks against this famous hill were launched by the enemy during the day were completely broken up by artillery fire before they reached our new front lines. The whole 4th Guards Division attempted a counter attack from the BOIS de QUATORES and the BOIS DIN-NUIT and are known to have suffered enormous casualties. About 8.00 pm a drizzling rain set in and the situation quieted down considerably. Only a few enemy planes were up during the day. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - In accordance with O.O. 123, the 3rd. C.D.A.co-operated with the 1st. and 2nd Canadian Division in an attack on Hill 70 and German defenses in the vicinity. Our barrage started at 4.25 a.m. Timing, distribution and accuracy was reported excellent. All the objectives were reached and held, about 1200 prisoners being taken and five counter attacks being repulsed with heavy loss to the enemy. Enemy aeroplanes did not interfere to any great extent with our observation during the day. His artillery was, however, very active, barrages being put on our front and support lines immediately after our attack began. These were repulsed frequently during the greater part of the day. It rained quite heavily during the afternoon. At 9.45 p.m. 15th. inst. the 53rd. R.F.A. battery was transferred to the tactical center control of the O.H.A., 3rd. C.D.A. attached to Ralston's Group. G.557/69. Ammunition expended A.7633., AS 2853., HX.1886., N.839., NX.730. Guns in action 30 18-pdrs., 4 13-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - During the month of August the Battery took part in the capture of Hill 70, also the taking of the Green Crasier and all the fighting on the Lens front. During this time the Battery was twice heavily shelled by 8” and on several occasions we were bombarded with Gas Shells. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Attack on famous Hill 70 took place this morning by 2nd and 4th Canadian Divisions, first stage of attack being launched at 4.25 a.m. and second stage at 8.25 a.m. A very strenuous day ensued. Barrages and hostile parties being fired upon. S.O.S. lines fired on repeatedly to repel numerous strong counter attacks which took place during the whole day. Approximately 1700 rounds of 6" shell were expended during the day by the 9th Canadian Siege Battery and 72 SAHA. 5th Canadian Siege Battery attached to 50th H.A. Group. One gunner, 9th Canadian Siege Battery killed by shell fire and 3 other ranks wounded. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Supported attack on whole Corps front principally against Hill 70 and CITE ST AUGUSTE commencing at 4,25 a.m., Apparently catching enemy unprepared. Hostile barrage very weak and did not commence until 0 plus 18 min. Attack reported successful. Infantry gained final objective on time. Balloon visibility nil owing to clouds. During afternoon and evening engaged a great number of N.F. Call.s Ground observation very good, FOOs. Getting parties of infantry with shrapnel. Enemy counter attacks repulsed except on 4th Div. Front where they regained their former position. Ammunition expended:- 60-pr. 8”How 6”How 9.2”How 4.5”How 1375 739 849 221 1747 General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - WEATHER: showery, fair intervals, rather cloudy - cool. Attack on HILL 70 launched at 4.25 am Operation was carried out by the 1st, 2nd & 4th Canadian Divisions, supported by all the artillery of the Canadian Corps, - (list attached shown as an Appendix). All objectives were reached during the day. Following reports received during the operation: 12.05 am From 2nd C.D.A. Report MAROC and ANGRES shelled with gas shell, flashes have been picked up and reported to C.B.S.O. 12.15 am From C.B.S.O. Germans reported to be making free use of gas shell mixed H.E., mostly directed against MAROC and LIEVIN - apparently using several batteries - C.B.S.O. asked to find out nature of gas. 12.30 am From 4th CDA VIMY Batteries report mustard gas being fired by 77 mm from direction of MERICOURT. 4.40 am From 2nd CDAGermans retaliating on FOSSE 9 and HILL 65. 4.50 am From 2nd CDA 4.35 am German barrage opened, not strong, mostly in FOSSE 9 direction. 4.40 am Heavy machine gun fire from the right whichto be reduced at 4.45 am. 4.45 am From 4.45 am apparently no flares from front line. 4.56 am From CBSO 4.37 am At 4.37 am a few rounds 4.45 am Light shelling of LOOS and CITE ST. PIERRE 4.52 am German barrage opened on AVION front. 4.55 am From 1st CDA German barrage opened 3 minutes after ours. Heavy T.M. fire from the left. Infantry reported front line being shelled at 4.42 am. 4.57 am From 4th CDA German barrage 3 minutes after ours, mostly on right flank. Heavy barrage on AVION front, (4th Canadian Division front). 6.02 am From 2nd CDA White flares reported from N.7.d. central at 4.51 am. 6.07 am From 2nd CDA Enemy shelling his own front line in N.7.b. & d. also FOSSE 9 and CITE ST. THEODORE. Red and green rockets going up from N.14.b. & d. 5.08 am From 1st CDA 4.50 am Blue Objective reported as reached on left of 1st Canadian Division. Support line of right battalion very heavily shelled. 5.10 am From 2nd CDA 4.50 am left infantry brigade reported to be on Blue objective. 5.17 am From 2nd CDA 5.09 am 3 White Very lights in front of FOSSE. 5.12 am 3 White Very lights at BOIS RASE. Objective in N.7.d. gained with slight casualties. 5.19 am From CBSO Statement as regards German retaliation, corroborating reports received. 5.25 am From CCHA Report one German ran into FOSSE 11 O.P. and surrendered. He reports that LENS is being evacuated. 5.30 am From 1st CDA Both right and left brigade reported on their Blue objective. Not heavy retaliation on their left. Hostile plane flying low over our front line at 5.20 am. 5.32 am From 4th CDA Request for latest wind report. 5.35 am From 2nd CDA At 5.25 am Bosche seen retiring down CINNABAR in single file N.8.d. Superimposed battery (18-pdr.) turned on intense fire. 5.45 am From 2nd CDA F.O.O's report seeing our infantry going into NUN's ALLEY at 5.40 am. 5.50 am From 4th CDA At 5.05 am the 21st Battalion were reported to have gained all objectives, and battalion commander satisfied with the situation. 5.50 am From CCHA Our men reported going into NUN'S ALLEY. Last reports from the left all going well. 6.02 am From 1st CDA Left brigade reported to be in their Green Objective. 6.08 am From 26th HAG Super-Howitzers will continue with occasional rounds up to Zero plus 200. Received rumours that prisoners stated LENS was evacuated last night under cover of gas bombardment. 6.10 am From CCHA Left F.O.O's report that they can see our men digging in along green line as far as view permits. 26 prisoners reported up to date; these apparently all report that LENS was evacuated last night. Unconfirmed report that prisoners of the 156th Regt. been taken. 6.15 am From 1st CDA Liaison officer with right brigade reports that Red Objective had been gained at 6.05 am. 6.20 am From CBSO Large explosions in LENS reported. 6.23 am From 2nd CDA From all accounts Right Brigade of 2nd Canadian Division to have had more or less of a walk over. Prisoners of 155th Regt. (70th Divn.) reported as captured, also Prussian Guards. Unconfirmed report of German plane flying low over our line. German hostile fire slight. 6.30 am From CCHA. Our men can be seen digging in H.32.c. Normal rate of fire being maintained up to 7am. 6.42 am From 2nd CDA Liaison officer reports that a prisoner states 2,000 storm troops had been distributed among the garrison. Opposition during the attack was slight except for a M.G. in CONDUCTOR trench. Barrage was good and accounted for many Bosches. Two large explosions in LENS. Petrol store on fire 70 true from M.23.b.8.0. Shelling practically ceased on our front line. 6.50 am From 1st CDA F.O.O's report German plane flying low over H.31. From all reports casualties appear to have been light. Infantry were seen advancing from Red line but no reports received yet as regards final objective. 6.54 am From 1st CDA Liaison officer 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade reports Green line taken. captured officer states immediate counter attack will be made. 6.55 am From 2nd CDA L.O. reports captures of 10th I.R.I. Relief in progress at time of attack. 77 mm fire now on COWLEY; German planes apparently directing hostile fire. 7.05 am To 4th CDA Enquiry as to smoke barrage. Reported excellent, will be maintained up to 7.15 am. 7.10 am From 1st CDA L.O. with right battalion of 1st Canadian Division reports Red line being consolidated. 40 casualties per company up to present. 1 M.G., 3 T.M., 1 officer and 25 O.R. captured up to present. 7.15 am From 2nd CDA 6.55 am all objectives captured on 2nd Canadian Division front. Reports of prisoners up to date include one batch of 50 and one of 12. Our men seen walking about in M.8.b. between Green line and final barrage. 8.00 am From 1st CDA Left company of 2nd Brigade are on their final objectives. Right company did not quite make Green objective. Germans holding C.T. running E. and W. in H.32.d. Heavy group shelling eastern end of trench. 1st CDA in touch with L.O. and F.O.O. situation well in hand. 8.15 am From 2nd CDA Reports appear to indicate counter attack from the direction of BRICKFIELDS N.3.c. towards junction of COMMOTION and NUN'S ALLEY. 8.10 am To CCHA Instructions to put concentration of 64th H.A.G. & 1st C.H.A.G. on GDE. CONDE. 2nd CDA to co-operate. On receipt of message, 2nd CDA instructed to verify whether counter attack is developing from BRICKFIELDS before switching 64th H.A.G. 8.30 am To CCHA Right of 1st Canadian Division appears to be hung up by rifle fire from houses about M.3.a.7.5. enfilading southern portion of QUARRY. Houses at present being taken on by heavies. Super Howitzers 15" to drop few rounds about N.3. central. 8.38 am From 1st CDA 1st CDA are putting up barrage on portion of Green line east of R. barrage. 8.42 am To 2nd CDA Enquiry as to counter attack from BRICKFIELDS does not appear to have materialized. Bosche holding NUN'S ALLEY between NABOB and COMMOTION. 8.50 am To CCHA Information as to situation. Instructions given to put as many batteries as could be spared from the remainder of the front on to houses H.33.c. and N.3.a. 9.10 am From 2nd CDA Left Group 2nd CDA report enemy attacking AMULET TRENCH (passed to CCHA who have a battery concentrating on FOSSE I.) O.C., 21 Battalion has sent message back that CINNABAR TRENCH could be taken with artillery fire, being lightly held. Germans have put a light barrage on our new line on this front (21st Battalion). 9.25 am From 4th CDA Reported by flares 4th Canadian Division have reached Red objective. Some Germans seen in N.13.D.o.2. may be prisoners. 9.22 am From 2 CDA 9.15 am our barrage broke counter attack in N.8.b. G.O.C., R.A., informed. 9.17 am infantry think they could take CINNABAR TRENCH with artillery support, otherwise Lewis gun posts which have been pushed out to N.14.1.5.5. and 5.6. and 90.85. will be withdrawn to CHICORY. CCHA informed. 9.25 am From 2nd CDA Heavy Hun barrage on CITE STE. THEODORE and N.13.c. 9.30 am From 2nd CDA A counter attack from CINNABAR (approx) has broken down under our fire. 9.45 am From 1st CDA F.O.O., 1st C.D.A. reports M.G. fire from BRICKFIELDS (N.3.c.) 9.50 am From 2nd CDA Report from Capt. T. Lea, 2nd Canadian Division obtained all objectives OK. 93rd Battalion repulsed local counter attack at 7.50 am. Scattered shelling on whole front. Received at 2nd CDA 9.46 am. 10.30 am From 4th CDA Report of situation on 4th Canadian Division front. Southern portion of ALPACH and GREEN CRASSIER still held by Bosche, 4th CDA engaging their trenches with 4.5" howitzers. Bosche still in ALOOF also being engaged by 4.5" with direct observation. 10.40 am To CCHA CCHA requested to assist 4th Canadian Division on GREEN CRASSIER TRENCHES if situaion admits. One section of 72nd Siege Battery (6" howitzers) is being turned on. 10.45 am From 4th CDA Report that we no longer hold ACONITE TRENCH. 11.05 am From 1st CDA F.O.O's report much movement in Northern sector to H.27.d. moving towards BOIS QUATORZE & BOIS de DIX-HUIT. Fire of approximately one battalion seen. Also movement in HIVE ALLEY, 6th D.A. and 1 Company H.A. on left dealing with this later. 11.07 am To CCHA Report from 1st CDA passed to CCHA, who state this movement is already being dealt with by 64th H.A. Group and 60-pdrs. searching H.27.d. and H.33.a. and b. 11.15 am From 1st CDA Report parties were dispersed by our fire, some of them were seen to be carrying machine guns. Parties went into BOIS de DIX-HUIT. 1st CDA are turning on 18-pdrs. to search wood. 11.25 am From 1st CDA Much movement coming from direction of WINGLES down HIVE ALLEY, request from I Corps to assist. 12.30 pm From CBSO General summary of situation satisfactory. BOIS de DIX-HUIT being searched by 60-pdrs. 12.35 pm To 'I' Corps, RA 1st Corps, R.A. requested to assist. They report that field batteries are dealing with HIVE ALLEY etc., and heavies shelling BOIS de DIX-HUIT etc. 11.45 am From 4th CDA Report that continual flow of Germans has been seen coming up NABOB ALLEY towards CINNABAR TRENCH. 2nd CDA informed. 11.50 am From 'I' Corps, RA Report of large bodies moving from BOIS DES DAMES towards BOIS de DIX-HUIT. 11.52 am To CCHA CCHA instructed to make 12 noon concentration on BOIS de DIX-HUIT as strong as possible. 11.55 am From 1st CDA Colonel Hayter corroborates reports from 'I' Corps, RA. 12.05 pm From 1st CDA Colonel Hayter reports that movement coming from North is moving near VENDIN le VIEL Road towards BOIS QUATORZE and BOIS de DIX-HUIT. 12.10 pm To CCHACCHA instructed to take on concentration at back of BOIS de DIX-HUIT reported by RFC observer. 2 batteries firing. 12.25 pm To CCHA Enquiry to CBSO as to situation on Northern front. Reports no fresh news. Instructed to find out from advanced OP's. 12.35 pm To 1st CDA Enquiry to 1st CDA as to situation. Report two German counter attacks have been broken up. Situation a bit quieter. 12.35 pm From 2nd CDA 2nd CDA report several German planes up, registering our front line. 43rd Squadron RFC informed. 12.40 pm From CBSO OP's report considerable hostile movement in H.26., H.27.c.5.o. and H.19.c. Concentrations on BOIS HUGO and BOIS de DIX-HUIT being put on at 12.50 pm. 12.45 pm To CBSO Report forwarded to CBSO received from 3rd Infantry Brigade retiring artillery and advancing infantry on CARVIN Road to N.10.c. and N.15.b. reported at 12.30 pm. These targets had already been engaged. 1.00 pm From 2nd CDA German plane brought down at 12.55 pm by machine gun fire. Col. Constantine (OC 5th Bde., CFA) watching NABOB ALLEY. German concentration near LOISON station. Passed to CBSO. 1.20 pm From Corps 'I' Report from RFC observers (43rd Squadron) just landed, state that Germans are again concentrating in BOIS de DIX-HUIT. CCHA informed, concentration of 63rd and 64th HAG on BOIS DIX-HUIT arranged for at once and 1st CDA informed. 1.30 pm From Corps 'G' Party of 150 Bosches in N.3.d. seen at 1.10 pm moving towardsfront line. Passed to 2nd CDA. 1.45 pm From Corps 'I' Huns dribbling down HIGHGATE and HYMAN TRENCHES towards CITE STE. AUGUSTE from ANNAY Trench and into FOSSE 8 de LENS. 1st CDA informed. 2.10 pm From 2nd CDA SOS reported in N.2.d. and N.8.b. Bosche came from NEWGATE Trench at the double across N.3.o. and N.9.a. under fire all the way, results not known. 2.45 pm From 2nd CDA Germans are reported to have established a footing at junction of CONDUCTOR and CHICORY Trenches and CONDUCTOR and COMBAT Trenches. DA shooting on CONDUCTOR and COMBAT Trenches, as near as possible, 63rd HAG asked to take on same trenches a little further off. 3.00 pm From 2nd CDA Report CHICORY trench no longer held by us. 5.20 pm From CCHA Bosche attacking across open from HERCULES trench - artillery are on them (CCHA - 1st CDA informed). 5.30 pm From Corps 'I' Report Bosche coming down HUMBUG trench at about same time. 5.50 pm From Corps 'I' I Corps OP's report Northern counter attack as being of a determined nature. 5.45 pm From 1st Cdn. Dvn. Request for CB assistance during operation at 6 pm CBSO consulted - all arrangements made. 5.55 pm To 1st CDA Enquiry to 1st CDA as to whether SOS on left would affect situations as regards support of 6 pm attack. CRA considers it all right. Warned as regards reports from 'I' Corp's OP's. 6.10 pm From 1st Cdn. Dv. CRA reports that apparently counter attack on the left was not of a serious nature, and appears to have been driven off. 6.50 pm From 2nd CDA Infantry reported as being back in CHICORY from end to end. 6.55 pm From 1st CDA White flares are believed to have been seen from the CHALK QUARRY, this is however not corroborated. 7.20 pm From 2nd CDA SOS reported from NUN'S ALLEY. 8.40 pm From G.S. SOS reported at 8.12 pm on left of 1st Canadian Division front. 1st CDA and CCHA have been at work on this. 1st CDA request any assistance 'I' Corps can give (8.45 pm) and report smoke barrage on either side of PUIT.14.bis. 'I' Corps had been firing up CT's with all natures up to 8.30 pm and will recommence at once. 8.45 pm From 'I' Corps 'I' Corps report their field and Heavy Artillery were already engaging F.L., supports and CT's. 8.55 pm From 1st CDA Attack on 15th Battalion front had been repulsed. 8.55 pm From 'G' Corps SOS 2nd Canadian Division front confirmed by 2nd CDA. 9.00 pm From 1st CDA SOS 1st Canadian Division front. CRA consider it something big. CDA advised. 9.35 pm To CCHA Enquiry to CCHA as to situation. Brigades apparently do not know results of SOS. Situation apparently quieting down. 9.55 pm To 2nd CDA Enquiry to 2nd CDA as to situation. No definite news, apparently everything seems all correct. D.A's and CCHA have slowed down. 10.10 pm From CBSO From reports of OP's it seems doubtful whether our SOS signal was ever sent up; probably German red rockets were mistaken for SOS signal. No special hostile artillery activity preceded the SOS signal. 10.40 pm From Corps 'G' 1st Canadian Division report SOS on the right of their front. 2nd CDA called up. State that at 10.43 pm SOS went up opposite their left battalion front apparently at the junction of the two divisions. 10.42 pm To 1st CDA Enquiry to 1st CDA. They state SOS is on their right front. 12.00 mn. SOS on 1st and 2nd Canadian Division fronts shortly before midnight. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. One hundred years ago on 14 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Visibility fair. Enemy aeroplanes very active during the day, several indecisive combats taking place. Three balloons were also up. Enemy artillery more active than usual. Our front lines and supports were intermittently shelled all day and our rear areas with ? Several trains and considerable movement of motor trucks and horsed vehicles were again observed in rear areas around PROVIN. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - Visibility only fair, but there was considerable aerial activity all day. One enemy balloon was observed. Enemy artillery was more active than usual, considerable attention being paid to our back areas. Our artillery was very active on communication trenches and wire all day. Considerable movement was observed and fired on. Ammunition expended A.434., AS.180., HX.48., N.35. Guns in action 32 18-pdrs., 4 13-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - During the month of August the Battery took part in the capture of Hill 70, also the taking of the Green Crasier and all the fighting on the Lens front. During this time the Battery was twice heavily shelled by 8” and on several occasions we were bombarded with Gas Shells. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Very busy day. Wire and trench destruction, and M.G.N's and T.J's bombarded. Feint barrage at 6.30 p.m. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Fair. Low clouds. Visibility poor. Morning quiet. Hostile artillery getting more active towards evening. A number of successful aeroplane shoots carried out. A great deal of harassing fire. Ammunition expended:- 60-pr. 8”How 6”How 9.2”How 4.5”How 1746 960 1763 506 2110 General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - WEATHER: fair & warm - thunderstorms later & becoming cooler. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. One hundred years ago on 13 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Visibility fair. A few enemy planes patrolled their own lines during the morning. Four enemy balloons were up. The enemy appears to be working on his front line trenches which have been badly knocked about by our fire. Less enemy movement seen than usual. Considerable traffic was again observed in the rear areas and several trains were also seen going into CARVIN. An enemy anti-aircraft battery was observed near VERDIN and our heavies took it on and caused a large explosion. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - Visibility good. Enemy planes crossed our lines several times during the morning, and his balloons were up but none were seen in the afternoon. Our planes were active all day. Artillery on both sides was below normal. Enemy anti-aircraft batteries were very active firing on our planes whenever they came within range. Ammunition expended. A.42., AS.19., HX 491, Guns in action 32 18-pdrs., 4 13-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - During the month of August the Battery took part in the capture of Hill 70, also the taking of the Green Crasier and all the fighting on the Lens front. During this time the Battery was twice heavily shelled by 8” and on several occasions we were bombarded with Gas Shells. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Trench and wire destruction being carried out. Hostile artillery active on our battery positions in ANGRES and LERVIN. This evening hostile artillery shelled our positions with high explosives and gas shells. The object being to enable those gas shells to explode undetected. Mustard gas is being used. One man of 3rd. Canadian Siege Battery died from the effects of this gas. 5th Canadian Siege Battery were heavily shelled today and three cases of shell shock occurred from the concussion of shells which obtained direct hits on the dug-outs. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Fair but cloudy with light showers. Our batteries under intermittent fire all day but little damage. A number of successful aeroplane shoots carried out and hostile batteries silenced with ground observation. Visibility good. A large number of N.F. calls received during late hours of daylight. Enemy very jumpy, putting down two early morning barrages – one at 4.0 and the other at 4.25. Ammn. 60-pr-826 : 8”How-324 : 6”How-891 : 9.2”How-Nil : 4.5”How-640. General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - WEATHER: mainly fair & bright - warmer. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. One hundred years ago on 12 August 1917 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of the 9th Canadian Field Artillery Brigade in the 3rd Canadian Division. The 9th Brigade war diary records: Enemy planes fairly active all day. Seven enemy balloons up today. Enemy artillery fairly active on our support trenches with all calibres and LOOS and our rear areas received considerable attention from enemy 4.9s. An abnormal amount of enemy movement was seen today. This consisted of a very large number of men in the rear of the BOIS de QUATORES all of them were fired on and some casualties inflicted. Quite a number of men were also seen in the enemy front line. Very heavy movement of motor and horsed traffic from MUERCHIN to VERBIN and MUERCHIN to CARVIN. Farmers could be plainly seen stacking grain around PROVIN. Our batteries did a great deal of wire cutting on the German front lines today. 3rd Canadian Divisional Artillery war diary records: BRAQUEMONT - Visibility good. Enemy and British aeroplanes were active all day, and eight enemy observation balloons were up at one time in the afternoon. Our heavy and field artillery carried out harassing fire. Hostile artillery was active on MAROC and vicinity. 3rd. Division Order 212, and 3rd. C.D.A. letter G.286/2 were cancelled and the skeleton battery under command of Major Syre returned to duty. Ammunition expended. A.80., AX.18.,, NX.460. Guns in action 32 18-pdrs., 4 13-pdrs., 12 4.5" Hows. 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force was a sub-unit of 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for administration and under command 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group for Counter-Battery. Their war diary records: ANGRES - Lieut. F.R. May proceeded on leave to England. During a heavy bombardment by the enemy a large number of stores and ammunition were blown up and a direct hit on the earth box of No 1 Gun. Two men No 1250744 Gunner Beales J.D. and No 203 Gunner Sloan O.S. were buried in a cellar which collapsed as a result of a direct hit. The men were extricated and sent to Field Ambulance. No 91881 Sgt Ware J.A. was also knocked unconscious by the concussion of a shell. 1st Canadian Heavy Artillery Group war diary records: Cabaret Rouge – Wire in front of Cinnibar and Commotion trenches dealt with. Six men of the 175th 3B.RGA., wounded by shell fire. This battery is located in ANGRES. Hostile plane which crossed VIMY Ridge was engaged by our NIEUPORT machine which after considerable manouevring, forced the Hun plane to descend on the Vimy Plain inside our lines. Both pilot and observer were taken prisoner. 2nd Canadian Heavy Artillery Group was placed in tactical control of 5th Canadian Siege Battery for counter battery work. The 2nd CHAG war diary records: X.23.b.1.5 - Fair. Cloudy with good visibility. A number of satisfactory aeroplane shoots carried out and a large number of batteries neutralized. Enemy particularly active against our battery positions but doing little damage. Enemy balloons up very high and very numerous. A very busy day. Ammunition expended:- 60-pr. 8”How 6”How 9.2”How 4.5”How 1133 325 1093 300 373 General Officer Commanding, Royal Artillery, Canadian Corps war diary records: In the Field - WEATHER: mainly fair & bright, some showers - rather cool. The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA perpetuates the following sub units: 31st Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 5th Canadian Siege Battery, Canadian Artillery, Canadian Expeditionary Force, 68th Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, North Russia Expeditionary Force, was not authorized to be formed until 3 August 1918, and 85th Battery, Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force was not authorized to be formed until 12 July 1918. |
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