CHESTERFIELD WFA
NEWSLETTER
January 2016 issue 15
Patron – vacant due to
bereavement
President
Professor Peter Simkins MBE
FRHistS
Vice-Presidents
Andre Colliot
Professor John Bourne BA PhD
FRHistS
The Burgomaster of Ypres
The Mayor of Albert
Lt-Col Graham Parker OBE
Professor Gary Sheffield BA MA PhD
FRHistS
Christopher Pugsley FRHistS
Lord Richard Dannat GCB CBE MC
DL
Roger Lee PhD jssc
www.westernfrontassociation.com
Branch contacts
Tony Bolton
(Chairman )
anthony.bolton3@btinternet
.com
Mark Macartney
(Deputy Chairman)
[email protected]
Pam Ackroyd (Treasurer)
Grant Cullen
(Secretary)
[email protected]
Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/g
roups/157662657604082/
http://www.wfachesterfield.com/
Welcome to the fifteenth newsletter of Chesterfield WFA.
We have pleasure in presenting the first for 2016 of the
Branch Newsletter. It was extremely gratifying to your
committee to see an excellent attendance at the January
meeting and we hope this trend continues. By the time you
read this details of our programme for 2016 has been sent
out and we hope the quality of the guest speakers we have
invited should make it worth the time to come along to our
monthly meetings.
Our next Chesterfield Branch Meeting will be held
on February 2nd 2016.
The guest speaker will be WFA Trustee, David Tattersfield
"The Courts Martial of Willie Stone and the DLI Six" –the
format of this meeting will be quite different as David will
need about a dozen 'volunteers' to deliver the lines from
a script provided. No acting is required or wanted: this is
verbatim transcript of two original courts martial. The first is
the famous case of Willie Stones (who claimed he blocked
the trench with his rifle to stop pursuing Germans) and the
second is a "mass" court martial of six men from the DLI.
This should be an interesting departure from the usual
format and we look forward to a good turn out.
The Branch meets at the Labour Club, Unity House, Saltergate,
Chesterfield S40 1NF on the first Tuesday of each month. There
is plenty of parking available on site and in the adjacent road.
Access to the car park is in Tennyson Road, however, which is
one way and cannot be accessed directly from Saltergate.
Grant Cullen – Branch Secretary
A Personal Note from the Chair - Number Eight
There few things more likely to put me off my dinner than Grant’s email asking me “for a few well-chosen
words” for his next newsletter. Few –yes I can manage that, well chosen is somewhat more challenging
but I suppose there are few times more important than the start of the centenary year of the Somme to try
and find some.
For those of you who patiently sat through my ‘overview’ of 1916 at our January meeting, I apologise if I
repeat some of the points I covered but in any case I think it is as well to bear in mind that this year’s
media centenary focus will, following a nod in the direction of Jutland, no doubt fall on the Somme and
equally certainly it will be 1 July that again seizes the attention. As we know the battles on the Somme
lasted from July to November, 141 days, but it is the first day that will be centre stage. Even the hardest
hearted revisionist historian cannot help but be moved by the sheer scale of human loss on this day, and
whilst we know it isn’t as simple as ignorant butchers sending naive youth against uncut wire, the fact of
the matter is that Britain and by Britain, I mean largely industrial northern England sustained 58,000
casualties ‘before breakfast’. It is by far and will almost certainly remain the worst day in the history of
the British Army. Appropriately the nation’s commemoration this year will be held at the Thiepval
Memorial to the missing. In our efforts to understand how the army and the high command took their
faltering steps along the ‘learning curve’ it none the less behoves us to reflect on the almost 20,000 of our
countrymen who died that day. From where I live, I can see the ‘lighthouse’ on Crich Carr, the memorial to
the men of the Sherwood Foresters lost in the Great War, chosen to look out over both Nottinghamshire
and Derbyshire and where on July 1 this year and every year the Foresters and now it’s successor regiment
–The Mercian’s still gather, there can be no doubt that for many 1 July epitomises the Great War.
On a more prosaic note I would like to thank you (I think) for the unopposed return of myself and the
committee at the AGM. It was very pleasing to see such a good attendance. Please remember we are all
happy to be contacted if you have any complaints, observations or suggestions regarding the running of the
Branch. I wish to express my thanks to the Committee for all their help.
Tony Bolton – Branch Chairman
Secretary`s Scribbles…………
Welcome to first edition of the WFA Chesterfield Branch Newsletter for 2016. It seems ages since
the last issue (July) and that gap was not my intention but a combination of various factors not the least of
which was 50 hour working weeks. However, these seem to have gone – forever I hope – and I will have
the time to put together regular newsletters, the aim being at least one per quarter. The second half of
2015 saw some excellent branch meetings and overall attendances at meetings were slightly up on 2014.
The only disappointment, attendance wise was the poor turn out for the paper on the naval battles
of Coronel and Falklands of 1914. Personally, I found the talk fascinating, particularly as a few years ago I
built a 1:700 scale model of the pre-dreadnought battleship, HMS Canopus which played a part in the
destruction of the German cruiser squadron. It did highlight, however, that most of our members are
`army` enthusiasts and are not really `into` naval or air warfare. I hope that is not proven to be the case
with the latter as we have a paper on the RFC`s contribution to the Battle of the Somme for our May
meeting. I am sure that the fact that the presentation is by the irrepressible Peter Hart will ensure a good
attendance. I have also recently e mailed out our full listing of meetings and guest speakers.
A number of the 2016 speakers, Peter Hart, Stephen Badsey, Sean Godfrey etc. are already well
known to members but we will be seeing two new speakers on the WFA meeting `circuit` for the first time,
Dr. Nigel Hunt and Richard Pullen. Both come very highly recommended and I am sure we will not be
disappointed. One of our `own` regulars, John Beech will be presenting his work at our September meeting
on the Zeppelin raids over Nottinghamshire in 1916. I know that John has done some meticulous research
on this subject – indeed it is still ongoing, so it will be an interesting and educational evening when he
makes his presentation.
Our next meeting, February 2nd, the presentation will take the form of a court room `drama` when
WFA Development Trustee David Tattersfield will present, with the aid of at least twelve of our members,
in the form of a verbatim representation of two celebrated Military Court Martials based upon the records
made at the time. This is the first time our Branch has attempted such a format and I hope, as David does,
it will be well supported and educational.
2016 got off to an excellent start in January with a 20+ attendance. Traditionally the January
meeting – which is also the Branch AGM – fails to capture the imagination but this year`s first meeting
proved very much the exception. The business of the AGM was brisk and once again our Treasurer, Pam
Ackroyd was able to report on a very positive year for 2015. The floor was then handed over to three of
our `Regulars`, two of who had brought items from their collections of Great War memorabilia. Branch
Chairman, Tony Bolton then set the tone for 2016 by giving an excellent overview of 1916, the third year of
the Great War.
Our Branch Vice Chairman, Mark Macartney had a very busy 2015 and has successfully put the WFA
`Branded Goods` back on the map after a gap of several years. Full details of all the items of clothing,
mugs, badges etc. are included elsewhere in this newsletter. The quality of the items is first class and Mark
is to be commended for his hard work in finding suppliers who are able to produce at such reasonable
prices. Each item includes a donation to WFA funds. Mark has also been busy `flying the flag` at a number
of other Branches / Regions special events and his reports are included in this newsletter which lets our
members see what other areas are doing.
Members will have noticed that our former Chairman / Branch Secretary, Peter Hodgkinson is a
contributor to the current issue of Stand to! (no. 105) with a paper entitled “Veteran Unemployment, the
Embankment Fellowship Centre and `The Downgate Twenty-One` “
We are always looking for contributions to this Newsletter. Please send anything for inclusion to
[email protected]. If you would rather speak with me before sending I am happy to do so – call
07824628638
Best regards,
Grant Cullen Branch Secretary
Western Front Association Chesterfield Branch – Meetings 2016
Meetings start at 7.30pm and take place at the Labour Club, Unity House, Saltergate, Chesterfield S40 1NF
January
5th
AGM
Tony Bolton- "1916 – an Overview of the Year”.
February
2nd
David Tattersfield "The Courts Martial of Willie Stone and the DLI Six" – this needs
March
1st
April
5th
about a dozen 'volunteers' to deliver the lines from a script provided. No acting is
required or wanted: this is verbatim transcript of two original courts martial. The first
is the famous case of Willie Stones (who claimed he blocked the trench with his rifle
to stop pursuing Germans) and the second is a "mass" court martial of six men from
the DLI.
Paul Cobb. "The Easter Rising – a Distraction from the Western Front" – a talk
looking at the events in Dublin at Easter 1916 when rebels challenged British rule in
Ireland. Events which still affect the politics of Ireland, North and South today
Richard Pullen. 'The First Tanks - A Wasted Opportunity or a Prelude to Victory?'
This talk centres on how the first use of the tanks were basically unsuccessful but
ultimately served as part of the greater learning curve
May
3rd
June
7th
July
5th
August
2nd
Peter Hart "Somme Success: the RFC and the Battle of the Somme, 1916" Peter will
discuss the contribution of the Royal Flying Corps to the Battle of the Somme
Sean Godfrey. "Serre 1916" - This presentation looks at the battles for the village of
Serre during the Great War, in particular the actions of the 31st (Pals) Division on July
1st 1916
Dr. Nigel Hunt “The Forgotten: Shellshock after the First World War” After
considering the symptoms experienced and the treatments on offer during the war
the talk will focus on those people who remained shellshocked (in the terminology of
the day) long after the war ended.
Stephen Erskine "Their glory shall not be blotted out”: The 7th Battalion The Green
Howards in front of Fricourt, 1 July 1916"
September 6th
John Beech “Zeppelins over Nottinghamshire” John has (and continues to do)
conducted meticulous research into these raids. He will present some of his work.
October
4th
Prof. Stephen Badsey. "Could the Battle of the Somme Have Been Won?" - An
analysis of alternative courses of action for the BEF in the Battle of the Somme 1916.
November
1st
John Chester. “The Unknown Warrior” The story of the Unknown Warrior,
buried in Westminster Abbey on Armistice Day 1920.
December
6th
Nick Paul. “Barbed Wire Disease” Nick will present some of his researches into
the experiences of British soldiers who became captives of the enemy
Saturday 15th August 2015
Macclesfield Town Hall
Macclesfield Reflects Gallipoli
Branch Vice Chair Mark Macartney attended the above Function,
A commemorative weekend dedicated to learning about and remembering those from the
Macclesfield area and the 7th Cheshire Regiment who participated in the 1915 Gallipoli Landings.
This Event was supported by the Western Front Association and Cheshire East Council.
Four Speakers did presentations (speakers details and bullet points as under) Also a WFA Stand
manned by Jane Backhouse and Terry Jackson plus Branded Goods stand manned by Mark
Macartney and Jean Walker.
Jane Backhouse and Mark Macartney on the WFA Stand
Martin Purdy
The Legacy of Gallipoli
A former newspaper Editor, Martin spent a number of years working as a freelance, First World War Advisor for the BBC’s
“Who do you think you are?” Magazine, in 2008 he wrote a book for them (republished in 2013) explaining how to research a
Great War Combatant, and how to use this information to plan a meaningful pilgrimage overseas. Presently completing doctoral
research work with Lancaster University and the Westfield War memorial Village in Lancaster, Martin is the co-author of During
Our Bit: The story of the Great War, told through the experience of one small town (2008) and the Gallipoli Oak (2013)
A few bullet points on Martin’s presentation
Gallipoli was Australia and New Zealand’s legacy, to keep them on side Britain agreed on having an “Anzac Day”, (thanking
them, so (gifting to Australia and New Zealand) Others were not happy (Britain, France, India, Newfoundland, so the UK said
they would have a “Gallipoli Day” Britain lost three times more casualties than Australia and New Zealand, Reverent Hill of Bury
said the Australia and New Zealand’s creation of an Anzac Day has been a scandal and we will have a “Gallipoli Day”, all
reference to Gallipoli are illegally cons crewed as “Anzac” Reverent Hill lead the campaign to have a Gallipoli Day. Gallipoli
itself was a great idea/campaign but never executed properly.
John Tanner
Gallipoli (A photographic tour)
John Tanner was the founding Chairman of the Oxford and Bucks Branch of the Western Front Association in 1986, His
interest in the Great War, however, goes back to the mid-1970’s and his first visit to Ypres was on a combination of train and
bicycle,. He has a strong interest in the territorial battalion from his local area, 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion, but has also
researched extensively the men of Enfield, where he now lives and for which there is no named war memorial.
Bullet points from John’s presentation
For his presentation here John’s talk was based around a fraction of more than one thousand photographs he had taken of
Gallipoli, including 18” shell holes, Marta Bay Memorial, Hellas & Auber memorials
Julian Hawley
An Australian at Gallipoli-the early experience of Harry Murray VC
Julian Hawley is a retired Human Resources Manager, who lives near Evesham in Worcestershire, He has had a long term interest in the Great
War since he first visited Ypres as a young boy, and has a collection of memorabilia from the war. His research into the life and achievements of his
relative, Harry Murray, the most decorated British and Commonwealth infantry soldier of the war, has led him to Tasmania, Gal lipoli and many sites
in France. He has presented Murray’s story to several Western Front Association branches.
Bullet points from Julian’s presentation
Julian’s presentation was based on this relative (Harry Murray). Murray born in Glasgow but Julian covered mainly Harry’s lif e in Australia, he joined
16 machine Gun Battalion, described as “keen as mustard” during his training, but wished the war had never happened. Stating Turks had
Grenades by this time (Australian’s didn’t) Turks had 10,000 casualties; there was a truce on 24 th May to bury casualties. 1916, Ausies arrived in
the Somme-Murray was now a Captain, 1917-now a Major, March 1918-now a Lt/Colonel, after the War Murray returned to Tasmania,
David Hill
the 7th Cheshire Battalion
David Hill is a retired history teacher who has been leading groups to Paris and the battlefields of France and Belgium for more than thirty years.
His original post-graduate thesis was on aspects of the Great War and he has been teaching, writing and publishing on the subject ever since.
David is a member of the Gallipoli Association and the Western Front Association, a keen medal and militaria collector and was recently elected to
the job’s top professional body, the Guild of Battlefield Guides.
His uncle fought, died and is buried on the Somme.
Bullet Points on David’s presentation
David explained that the 7th battalion were TA Rifle Volunteers from Sandbach, they became known as the “terriers” (territorials), David showed
various photographs, including, uniform shirt sleeve order, flannel vests, view of troops relaxing at Ryl, formal view of “B” Coy 7th Cheshire. On the
“your country needs you” David explained that 1000 troops were needed for the new 7 th Cheshire Territorials, but minimum height requirement was
5’4 ½” so then the Bantams were formed permitting height at under 5ft 3 ins. Some had Imperial Service Badge permitting them to serve overseas
(Territorials did not need serve abroad) David also showed a photo of the troops just before they went abroad. 1917, 7 th Battalion was at Gaza.
Finalizing David showed a photo stated the following “Youthful innocence, gone to do their duty”
All speakers covered their “specialist subject” very informatively.
From French Flanders
Le Touret British Cemetery & Memorial to The Missing
This cemetery is situated just behind the front of the Indian Corps in May 1915. The Memorial to the
Missing is for those who fell in the battles of La Bassee, Neuve-Chapelle, Aubers Ridge and Festubert in
1914-15
The Western Front Association
Scotland in the Great War
Bonar Hall, University of Dundee
Saturday 5th September 2015
Scottish Branches of the Western Front Association Conference
L to R. Rob Thompson, Prof. Phylomena Badsey, Prof. Stephen Badsey, Prof Peter Simkins, Dr. Gary
Sheffield
Branch Vice Chair Mark Macartney attended the above Function where he was joined by WFA President,
Vice President, trustees, speakers, WFA members and many more from all walks of life, all with the same
interest and dedication in the Great War.
There was an excellent turnout for what was a very informative, educational, and humorous yet serious
Conference, presented with respect. Well done! To all five speakers.
Really great day extremely interesting speakers with lively presentations. Great venue, lovely refreshments
and first class organisation.
Well done to all involved in the organisation of the event, hard work but definitely worth the effort.
The Conference was opened by the Bob Duncan, (Lord Provost of Dundee). Initial welcome and
introduction plus the closing of the conference and concluding remarks was undertaken by the Western
Front Association Chairman Bob Patterson. The introduction of the speakers throughout the day was under
control of the chairs of the three Scottish branches (Scotland North, Scotland South and Tayside) the
Events Officer being Michael Taylor from WFA Tayside, who also attempted to keep a track on time (a very
tall order),
Five speakers covered their “specialist” subject in depth. (Biographies and bullet points are detailed
under) Dr Phylomena Badsey stepped in at very short notice in place of Yvonne McEwan who was ill on the
day of the conference. The Organisers and Trustees were very grateful to Doctor Badsey and wished
Yvonne a speedy recovery. Also there were various sales displays, including Branded Goods run by the
Branded Goods co-ordinator Mark Macartney and his partner Jean where ties, tie bars, lapel badges, mugs
and the Great War “Fine Art Books” were available for purchase, also information on ordering “branded”
clothing was also available (this was of great interest to members and guests.) .On the evening prior to the
event Trustees and speakers met in the Queens Hotel for a meal, immediately after the event some met in
the bar mingling with speakers where a friendly informative question and answer session took place, later
in the evening the Trustees and Speakers met for a social meal.
Dundee’s Lord Provost
Bob Duncan
Bob Duncan started by saying that as LORD PROVOST of Dundee he was delighted to have been invited
to pen the short welcome to delegates coming to the City for The Western Front Conference focusing on
“Scotland in the Great War”. The Lord Provost went on to say that Dundee and Scotland made a great
contribution to WW1, and we must remember and never forget those who gave their all for King and
Country. In the Lord Provost’s welcome notes he stated that men signed up in their droves and died by the
thousand, including poignantly in this 100 th anniversary year, at the Battle of Loos in which “Dundee’s Ain”
their own 4th Battalion Black Watch played a major role. The 4 th Battalion was a Territorial unit drawn mainly
from Dundee so neighbours, friends, workmates men from the same family, fathers, sons and close
relatives all fought and died together. The Battle of Loos inflicted very heavy losses on the 4 th, Out of 20
Officers, 19 were killed or wounded and of 420 men 230 were killed or wounded. As was played out
through the policy of “Pals Battalions” up and down the country the obvious result was that a family in
almost every residential street was blighted by death and the loss of a loved one. The Lord Provost
concluded by wishing everyone well and hoped they had an informative and enjoyable day...
Bob Patterson
Chairman-
The Western Front Association
Bob opened his introduction by saying, welcome to “Sunny Dundee, it’s always sunny at Dundee”, well that
got a few “chuckles” anyway, but on a serious note Bob said that on behalf of the Western Front
Association it gave him immense pleasure welcoming everyone to “Bonnie Dundee” for the Conference
“Scotland in the Great War”. Bob went on to say that this was the first time that the Western Front
association has held a national conference in Scotland, with all three Scottish Branches, (Scotland North,
South and Tayside) coming together and organising the event. On a personal basis Bob being Dundee
born and bred, was absolutely delighted that an event of this stature is being held in the City of Discovery
around the time of the 100 th anniversary of the Battle of Loos, a battle which as we all know had a major
impact not just on Dundee but also on many other Scottish areas. Bob stated that today’s line up of
speakers is as strong a line up as he had seen at any WFA Event, and thanked them for travelling the
distance to Dundee. On concluding his introduction Bob said he hoped that everyone enjoyed the
conference, as he was positive that the event would meet all expectations. He thanked everyone for their
support and also thanked the sponsors MTC for their support.
Professor Peter Simkins
Scotland in Britain’s New Armies in the Great War
Peter (President of the Western Front association) was educated at Ealing Grammar School and Kings
College London, where he graduated in Modern history. He joined the Imperial War Museum (IWM) staff in
1963, remaining there until he retired in 1999 as its Senior Historian and was awarded the MBE for his
services to the Museum. From 1999-2011 Peter was Honorary Professor in Modern History at the
University of Birmingham; from 2005 he helped teach the MA programme in British First World War
Studies. In 2014 Peter was formally installed as Honorary Professor in Western Front Studies at the
University of Wolverhampton. He is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society, and a member of the Army
Records Society and of the British Commission for Military History. Peter has been Honorary President of
the Western Front Association since 2011. In what remains of his spare time Peter is an active jazz pianist
and an ever-hopeful, if often-disappointed, supporter of Ipswich Town FC.
Bullet Points from Prof Simkins presentation
Peter started his talk by saying that he had better make the talk a good one after the introduction he had
been given. Talking about Kitchener’s New Arm Armies Peter said that there were 22 Regular Scottish
battalions and 44 Territorial Scottish battalions. In 1918 there was a manpower crisis, some Battalions
amalgamated where as some just disappeared. Kitchener’s recruiting plan in 1914 was not organised. On
the Scottish Pals Battalions some were from (tramways) Glasgow was first to have female “clippies”
replacing males who joined the Pals Battalions. Volunteers were asked to join the “Pals” and within 24
hours 1500 names had been put forward, recruitment then soared when “bantams” were permitted and
became known as the “Devil Dwarfs”, NCOs in 1914 were difficult to find, so Policemen were recruited for
these posts. If you had a “tach” you were thought to be suitable. Problems during training-accommodation
and weapons (lack of and out=dated).Command and Control. Peter went through the Command and
Control of Scottish Divisions during the Great War. Discipline and death sentences were covered by Peter,
97 death sentences were awarded to NCOs and men of the Scottish New Armies, 80% were for desertion
and cowardice.
Dr Phylomena Badsey
Vera Brittain Nursing on the Western Front 1917-1918
Dr Badsey’s bullet points
Dr.Badsey covered the following points, 24 th General Base Hospital continued until 1919 (Etaples), the
differences in uniform between VAD’s and Nurses, no VADs ever worked at Casualty Clearance Stations.
All VAD’s were registered at Devonshire House, Piccadilly London. All photos shown of VAD’s are staged.
82% of casualties returned to duty. Royal Devonshire Hospital Buxton (1914-1918), Military Nurses were all
quite young, most complicated wounds were dressed by Nurses and VAD’s.
Professor Stephen Badsey
Scotland in British Propaganda 1914-18
Prof Stephen Badsey is Professor of Conflict Studies in the Department of History, Politics and War
Studies, and Co-Director of the First World War Research Group, at the University of Wolverhampton. An
International recognised specialist on the history and present practice of wartime propaganda and militarymedia relationships, he was educated at Cambridge University, receiving a MA and PhD, he was elected
fellow of the Royal Historic Society in 1995. He has held research positions at the Imperial War Museum
and for the BBC, and for several years was a member of the academic staff at the Royal Military Academy
Sandhurst, as well as holding various posta at Universities in the UK and overseas. He has written more
than 100 books and articles, and his writings have been translated into five languages. His next book will
be The German Corpse Factory: A study in First World War propaganda (2015). In the last five years
Stephen has been invited to address audiences in Denmark, Japan, South Africa, Estonia and the United
States.
Bullet points from Stephen’s presentation
Stephen stated that post war reactions could have held beliefs to other actions, Treaty of Versailles 28 th
June 1919, Non-negotiable, Germany had to accept, but if Germany could have proved propaganda within
it, then it would have been negotiable, Censorships, 1911-Official Secrets Act, 1912-Military Operations,
August 1914-Official Press Borough, Sept 1914-Eyewitness, July 1915-Official War Correspondence, Late
August 1914-Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, Late August 1914-Central Committee for National
Committee Organisation, August 1917-National War Committee, Sept 1914-War Propaganda Borough,
Nov 1916- War Office Committee, Jan 1918-Ministry of Operations, Feb 1918-Department of Propaganda
in Enemy Countries. Stephen mentioned Red Clydeside (part of Glasgow) and the rent strike. Summarising
Professor Badsey said a lot a questions were asked: What did people know? What did people think?, What
did the Government think ?, what did the Government want people to think ?, Kilts were also covered in
detail, Kilties were impractical for trenches, but kilted became the image for the British Army. Propaganda
Organisations, Canadian and Australian (not British) (Colonial Propaganda) New Zealand in Anzac is silent,
(a joke by Stephen)
Professor Gary Sheffield
Douglas Haig Hero of Scotland, Britain and the Empire
Professor Gary Sheffield was appointed to the newly-established Chair of War Studies at the University of
Wolverhampton in 2013, previously holding chairs at Kings College London and University of Birmingham.
Educated at the University of Leeds (BA 1982, MA (by research) 1985) and Kings College London (Ph D
1994) he started his teaching career in the Department of War Studies, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst
in 1985 before moving to KCL’s Defence Studies Department as Land warfare Historian on the Higher
Command and Staff Course, and then to Birmingham in 2006. With John Bourne he is currently editing the
diaries and letters of General Sir Henry Rawlinson. President of the International Guide of Battlefield
Guides, a Vice President of the Western Front Association, a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the
Royal Society of Arts, Gary is a regular broadcaster on radio and television, and writes for the national
press, he is married with a grown up daughter and son.
Bullet Points
Gary started by saying that the First World War is not History; it is “Current Affairs”. Haig led the Army to
victory. Haig’s death in 1929. Haig prepared to sacrifice his life for King and Country. Haig was British but a
proud Scot. Born in 1861 in Edinburgh, as previously mentioned Haig was British, Scottish and worshipped
in Anglican Churches in England and India, He joined the 7 th Hussars. In 1918 he was welcomed home, the
words being “welcome home to your ain folk”. He led on Justice for Ex Servicemen and led the first Poppy
Day in 1921. Hoping that it would be a regular occurrence. Haig was very popular, no more than with the
British Legion, in 1928 Haig had a heart attack and died, he was taken to Scotland and buried. His family
always believed that it was his “war” activities that brought the heart attack on. Reputation collapsed after
his death, (was war worth fighting?) Nobody has gone back to Haig the Hero; Haig’s performance was
much greater than he gets credit for. Was he a butcher? Well he did make mistakes, but butcher’s title
could be given to all Senior Generals – of all the belligerent powers !. So concluding Gary said Haig, Hero
of Scotland, Britain and the Empire.
Rob Thompson
He’s a Lumberjack and he’s ok
(The Canadian Corps 1914-1917)
Rob Thompson, an “accidental” military historian who prior to becoming an independent military historian
taught at the “War Studies Group” (Birmingham University). Finding himself in a Twentieth Century Military
History class as part of his undergraduate degree, he elected to present a paper on “Lions Led by
Donkeys”, only to be surprised by what he discovered. This was the first step on his road to card-carrying
revolution. He now writes about the role of logistics and engineering in the development of BEF’s
operational method on the Western Front and sits on the Anglo-French ‘GHQ Project’ Committee as a
historical advisor. He is co-organiser of ‘Not So Quiet on the Western Front: The New Military History of
World war one’. He is currently writing a book on the development of the British Army’s logistical system
during the Great War, as well as a historical advisor to Bolton Wanderers Football Club Great War
Centenary Project. He recently appeared on BBC Television’s “Great War Railways” programme alongside
Michael Portillo. Rob is a regular speaker on the “Western Front” circuit, His beautiful Italian partner of 27
years patiently waits for the return of the man she once knew whilst his two delightful children continue to
develop their capacity to sneer at their fathers failings. His self-deprecation clearly hides a towering ego
and an unshakable belief that he, and he alone, is destined to rule the world, He is also very tall.
Bullet points on Rob’s Presentation
Rob’s opening words “Canada the Brave”, 50% Canadians, others half Scottish or had Scottish parents), is
it a bird/is it a bridge. Vimy Ridge captured 12 th April 1917, dumb/thick (lumberjacks), the myth of Vimy
Ridge, Canada-a supreme myth, they did not have Officers, they used British. BEF consisted of Canadian
Forces (and some others), Canadian Corps-Canada Army in the field. Canadians were not affected by the
1918 manpower cuts. Also they were allowed time to prepare and train, Canadian Corps was big, (almost
as big as the whole British Army), Rob emphasised that the problems were that there was no
communication between the “Front and the rear”, Canada was not required to come to Britain’s aid (murky
Politics) Birth of a Nation-Vimy Ridge-April 1917. Battle of Arras April 1917, Artillery suggestions (not
instructions). Vimy Ridge-German must be suppressed; Vimy Ridge-enormous Logistics and Engineering
effort, although it was an overwhelming victory there were casualties. Passchendaele, preparations, 12 th
October, examined but need take Passchendaele Ridge, Soldiers are labourers. 16 days fighting, 15654
casualties, 4000 killed. Almost same operation as Vimy Ridge. Rob said that it was an Engineers War,
There was a need for engineers centralisation, Could not move guns forward as roads were not yet built,
Concluding words from Rob, “a limited tactical operation”
The Western Front Association Durham Branch Saturday 5th September 2015
1915-2015 First World War Centenary Conference
Branch Vice Chair Mark Macartney attended the above Function where he was joined by many from all
walks of life, all with the same interest and dedication in the Great War.
A good turnout attended what was a very. Informative, educational, thought-provoking Conference,
presented with both humour and respect. Well done! to all speakers.
Really good day extremely interesting speakers with lively presentations. Good company, good venue, nice
refreshments and first class organisation. Also present was the WFA Branded Goods Stand manned by the
Branded Goods coordinator Mark Macartney.
Well done to all involved in the organisation of the event, hard work but definitely worth the effort All in all, a
'First Class and memorable event'
The Conference was opened by the Conference Chairman Professor John Derry, Professor Derry also
introduced and controlled the conference throughout, attempting to keep a track on time (a tall order)
Four Excellent Speakers covered their “specialised subject” intensely, (Biographies and bullet points are
detailed here)
Peter Hart
Gallipoli 1915
Peter is an oral historian at the Imperial War Museum (IWM) and also runs tours to WW1 battlefields. He
has published many important histories on the First World War, which has often extensively sourced the
eye witness records held by the IWM. Peter is an extremely popular speaker with Western Front
Association branches.
Bullet points from Peter’s presentation
Peter opened his presentation by saying 1915 was a fantastic year, (impossible to cover what he would like
to in 45 minutes but would try and cover to the best of his ability), Peter stated (as we have heard this from
numerous speakers over the year) that it was not a New Zealand and Australia campaign, it was a British
and French campaign. 1915, the year of “shell shortage” by diverting resources to Gallipoli could have
made us lose the war. ANZAC was good but inexperienced, French had 2 things Britain didn’t (they had
correct guns and had shells) Britain never learned by their mistakes first time (or 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th) by the
end of the war Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders were well up the list but not as high as British
forces of top benchmark, British forces were not the top but were very near it. Summing up Professor John
Derry said “again Peter’s talk had its usual characteristic
performance, a long question and answer session followed
which Peter answered in his own humorous way with lively
provocative enlightening.
Mr Hart in the Pulpit !!
Dr Borislav Chernov
Russia and the Eastern Front 1915
Dr Chernov is a teaching Fellow in Russian History at Newcastle University. He specializes in the History of
East Central Europe and Russia in the 19 th and 20th Centuries, and is especially interested is the nexus
between nationalism, war and resolution. Bonislav’s monograph, previously titled “Twilight of Empire: BrestLitovsk and the remaking of Eastern Central Europe 1917-1918” is presently being considered for
publication at the University of Toronto Press.
Dr Chernov’s Bullet points
Borislav started by saying that the talk would focus on 1915 (starting in 1914)
The Eastern Front was actually larger than the Western Front, Austria, Hungary and Romania was neutral
in 1914, Western Front had established states, where as the Eastern Front had Multi-National Empires.
Allies aimed to knock Ottomans out of the war (allies were winning elsewhere) Russia wanted someone to
blame, huge amount of Jews were rounded up.
An interesting question and answer session followed before a fantastic Buffet Lunch.
Dr Matthias Strohn
Falkenhayn and German Defensive Strategy 1915
A senior lecturer at the Department of War Studies at royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Dr Strohn’s
principal research interests are the Military History of the inter-war period, the German Army during the
First World War and the German Army in the Third Reich. Metthias holds a commission in the German
Army and, as a reserve officer, was attached to the German Staff College for 4 years as the Military Staff
Officer. Since 2012 he has been in the Military Attaché Reserve and in this position he has served on the
defence attaché staffs in both Madrid and London.
Bullet Points
Matthias started by saying that Germany didn’t have National Boundaries like Britain, he got a laugh when
he said, and oh Britain now has a tunnel. When we look at the “Schliffen Plan” (how ridiculous is that),
Germany (born and boring), important-talk about Germany, Up to 1914, talk about four Kingdoms, Germany was
poor at communicating, plans not thought through. Short War v Long War, strategy and operations over tact and
policy. Defence War conducted defensively, Importance of new weapons, the factor time/the factor message
offence. Top tier in Prussian army (Keiser-King of Prussia) (head of military cabinet) (Prussian War minister)
(Chief of General Staff) Key player 1915 was Erich Von Falkenhayn, becomes CGS 14 Sept 1914-29 Aug 1919.
Consequences- position unfavourable, lack of flexibility, heavy casualties especially against French in 1915.
An interesting question and answer session again followed before the final break of the day.
Dr Scott Lindgren
the War at Sea 1915
Dr Lindgren is a naval historian specializing in the period 1850-1950. He gained his PhD on cruiser
development 1884-1909 from University of Salford under Prof Eric Grove, who was one of the speakers at
the 2014 WFA Durham conference. Scott is an Honorary Research Fellow of the University of Hull, he
taught naval history for nine years, and is Secretary to the Council of Maritime history north. He often gives
talks to WFA branches across the country.
Bullet Points
Probably being biased Scott started by saying that in 1915 the British Army was “not that good”, saying it
was stated, don’t spend as much on the Army as the Navy, it’s the Navy we need. It’s about maritime
power dominance for shipping. From about 1905 navy is developing plans for warfare with Germany, solely
not just between Britain and Germany; other countries were doing plans (like Argentina and Brazil).
Germany made fundamental error plans to get America to expand its fleet. Britain will not allow a rival;
Britain does not need to fight against anyone (including Germany)
The usual question and answer session followed before Professor Derry “winded up the show” thanking all
speakers and organizers for their effort to make the day a resounding success.
Professor John Derry
Conference Chairman
Professor Derry (Conference Chairman) was an Emeritus Professor of Modern British History at the
University of Newcastle and author of numerous books and biographies. John is a widely admired speaker
to The Western Front Association and local history groups
Bullet Points.
Professor Derry bringing the conference to a close thanked all speakers and organizers and attendees for
their effort to make the day another resounding success, wishing everyone a safe journey home.
The Western Front Association
Suffolk Branch
Saturday 24th October 2015
Waterfront Building Suffolk University Campus Ipswich
1915 Trial and Error
Branch Vice Chair Mark Macartney attended the above Function, along with many more all with the same
interest and dedication in the Great War.
As always very informative, educational, thought-provoking stuff, presented with both humour and respect.
A massive thank you goes to all speakers. Also the Branded Goods Stand was present and as usual
manned by Mark,
Really good day extremely interesting speakers with lively presentations. Good company, good venue,
lovely refreshments and first class organisation.
Well done to all involved in the organisation of the event, hard work but definitely worth the effort
Taff Gillingham (WFA Suffolk, chairman welcomed all, explaining the New Venue, thanking everyone
attending, and stated the it was his pleasure to have Mark Macartney with the Branded Goods items in
attendance today, Taff said he hoped everyone had a good day, and then introduced the first speaker
(WFA President Prof Peter Simkins)
Peter Simkins
The Raising of Kitchener’s Army 1914-1915
Simon Jones
Britain and Chemical Warfare in 1915
Nick Lloyd
The British Expeditionary Force & the Battle of Loos
All speakers covered their “specialised subject” admirably but under is some info and points relating to the
speakers and their specialist subjects.
Peter Simkins
President of the Western Front Association (WFA) and was an early member of the
Suffolk Branch. Formally Senior Historian at the Imperial War Museum. He is currently Honorary Professor
of Western Front Studies at the University of Wolverhampton and a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society,
as well as a member of both the Army Records Society and the British Commission for Military History.
Author of the definitive text on Kitchener’s Army, he has just published “From the Somme to Victory”: “The
British Army’s Experience on the Western Front 1916-18” He lives in Cheltenham. He is a jazz pianist and
record collector and also a long suffering fan of Ipswich Town.(Bullet Points covered by Peter - The Raising
of Kitchener’s Army 1914-1915)
Peter started by saying that people should be aware that he is struggling to convert to Power Point at the
age of 76. Regular Army intake was 29,000 per year, Liberal Government under Asquith was committed to
war, People preferred reading local newspapers like the Manchester Guardian and the Yorkshire Post
opposed to National Press. Pals Battalions were the “in thing”, Peter said he was not critical about Palls
Battalions bet needed put into perspective. Most saw recruitment in 1914 in preference to posters,
recruiting from October declined. People got carried away with the spirit of experience as you could get 300
going to camp and 310 returning. Some comments from recruiters like “I’m going to fight the French”; some
memorised to cheat their eye test. Late 1914 recruiting of Bantams started. One Battalion of Bantams was
almost abandoned on the Somme. Householders asked how many can you take, two responses as an
example (a) None, I’m married to a bloody soldier, (b) How much do I get. (I’ll take 6) Illegitimacy increased
immensely. Concluding some Divisions had the best trainers in the Great War, to sum up it remains to be
said, history localised and history motivated, a question and answer followed and Peter even stated that he
was happy to even answer questions on Ipswich Town’s decline.
Simon Jones a Freelance Historian and battlefield tour guide Simon was formally Assistant Curator and
Exhibition Officer of the Royal Engineers Museum at Cheltenham and then Curator of the Kings
Regimental Collection at the Museum of Liverpool Life. He teaches courses on the First World War for the
Centre Continuing Education of Liverpool and Lancaster Universities and is developing courses with
Manchester University. Simon’s main First World War research interests are in military engineering,
especially mining and chemical warfare and the Kings (Liverpool) Regiment especially the 8 th Liverpool Irish
Battalion. He is currently working on a book proposal on the development of protection against poison gas
during the First World War; He is a member of the British Commission for Military History.
(Bullet points covered by Simon - Britain and Chemical Warfare in 1915) The Haig Conference Agreement
1899 signed and ratified Austria Hungary & France, Germany and Russia in 1900 Britain did not sign up to
it until 1907. Engineering Hand Grenades (tear gas) was covered in Simons talk, is it legal, decided that it
was not legal, Ramsay MacDonald effectiveness of irritants, GHQ decided that the grenades were not good
(but could come back later) The Times stated that Germans could be planning on using poison gas on our
troops, (not taken seriously by the allies). Result, Germany releases 120 tons on the French, this attach
was a massive shock for the allies, (6000 by gas attack reported, but in reality looking at records it was
more like 600-800) Kitchener asks the Government for permission to retaliate, Government said “use
whatever can be involved”, While Britain is preparing retaliatory efforts it is feared Germany may retaliate in
some other way, Drawings shown by chemistry studies, who were on front line, Simon concluded by saying
they needed plumbers not Chemists. Rubber piping was used to join together, Britain never again joined
together chemical weapons with military attack, question time now, only time for one question so the
audience was told “make it a good one”
Nick Lloyd
being a Senior Lecturer in Defence Studies at Kings College London based at the
local Joint Service Command & Staff College at Shrivenham, Nick specializes in British military and
imperial history in the era of the Great War. He is the author of 3 books; Loos 1915; The Amritsar; The
untold story of One Fateful Day; and Hundred Days; The End of the Great War. Currently, Nick is writing a
major new history of the Third Battle of Ypres entitled Passchendaele (to be published by Penguin in 2017).
He is also completing a biography of Sir Michael O’Dwyer, the Lieutenant-Governor of the Punjab during
the First World War.
(Bullet points covered by Nick - The British Expeditionary Force & the Battle of Loos)
Nick’s initial opening statement was “a bloody balls up” 1915 was an important year, events were down to
Haig’s transformation, Haig and Sir John French were not getting on, Haig became more powerful, Haig
became leader in poison gas, gas would go 2 miles into German lines, GHQ advises Haig that he must
attack on 25th Sept, Haig says he must have weather if the attack is involving gas you amend your attack,
but must be after 25th Sept. One Officer remarked that it’s only a matter of time before you become a
casualty, Loos known as most casualties of Senior Officers, to conclude Nick stated, you have to
understand Haig, as for French, his perspective was Senior Officers told to stay away from front line, limited
step by step is the only way to make realistic attack.
An interesting question and answer session followed Afterwards a Panel session took place (Chaired by
Chairman of the Suffolk Branch, Taff Gillingham) where the three speakers WFA President Professor Peter
Simkins OBE, Simon Jones, and Nick Lloyd were joined by Peter Hart in this lively session. (See photo
above)
The Western Front Association
Saturday 31st October 2015
Army and Navy Club Pall Mall London
Tunnelling in the Great War
Branch Vice Chair Mark Macartney attended the above Function, along with many Trustees and others all
with the same interest and dedication in remembering the Great War and its history.
A very informative and educational presentation with both humour and respect in mind.
Well done to all involved in the organisation of the event, hard work but definitely worth the effort
Colin Wagstaff WFA Vice Chairman opened the proceedings then introduced the first speaker Lieutenant
Colonel Alexander Turner DSM (all speakers and topics are named under)
Lt-Col Alexander Turner
Prof Peter Doyle
Denis Herbert
Simon Jones
Andy Prada
(Blows Under Ground; tunnelling operations on the Western Front)
(The challenge of tunnelling at Gallipoli)
(Battle of the mines;Vauquois 1915-18 and its legacy)
(La Boisselle;Three nations beneath No Man’s Land)
(Engineering the Loos Salient 1915-2018)
Lt-Col Alexander Turner
British army officer since 1998 after a brief spell in the City of London.
Simon’s experience includes peacekeeping operations (Kosovo 1999), internal security (Northern Ireland
2004), combat operations (Iraq 2003) and counter-insurgency (Afghanistan 2011). He has also served as a
UN military observer on the Iraq-Kuwait border from 2002-2003. Other employment has included training
roles (both delivery and policy), foreign affairs (Pakistan) and ceremonial duties in central London. Simon is
a published military historian and has also produced two articles for Reader's Digest (2009), one on the
Great War and another on Afghanistan. In 2011 he featured on BBC Radio 4's PM programme talking
about counter-insurgency operations and also contributed to a 2012 TV documentary about the battle of
Messines Ridge,
(main points covered by Alex)
Alex, a serving Officer in the Irish Guards started by saying his full time job was as an Army Officer
but classed himself as a part time historian. And is a member of The Durand Group. Commencing his talk
Alex stated that people didn’t fail on Battlefields, procurement supplies failed. Undermining was not new in
WW1 (Rochester Gate in 1215 and Petersburg in 1864), Early shallow efforts were the result of
inexperience, John Norton Griffiths (known to give a nod at times) with colour and character, it took his
charisma to persuade Kitchener on points. He trialled the clay kicking exercise in his own home with a
chair. Alex explained in some detail about Tunnelling Sapper William Hackett and that he had gained the
VC. And why hobnail boots were worn by tunnellers’ Alex said you can “skip forward” in a book but you
can’t do that while digging.
Prof Peter Doyle
Professor Peter Doyle BSc PhD Ggeol FGS. • Freelance geological,
educational & media consultant, author and editor • Professor of Geosciences, University of Greenwich
(1999-2003) • Reader, (1993-1999); Lecturer, University of Greenwich (1990-1993) • Head of Stratigraphy
Branch, Nature Conservancy Council (1989-1990) • Scientist, British Antarctic Survey (1984-1985; 19871989); • Research Fellow, Natural History Museum (1985-1987) Visiting Professor, Department of Earth
Sciences, University College London (UCL) (2003 – to date) • Visiting Professor, Department of Earth &
Environmental Sciences, University of Greenwich (2003 – to date) • Halstead Medal, Geologists’
Association, for ‘work of outstanding merit’ (2003) • Chair, Geoconservation Commission (Geological
Society of London) • Chair, English Stone Forum Working Group, Vice-Chair English Stone Forum •
Independent Committee Member, Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) • Co-Secretary, All Party
War Graves and Battlefield Heritage Group (2004 - ) • Committee membership of numerous learned
societies • Geology; environmental geology; military geology & geohazards; palaeontology. Over 150
published papers, books and journals in these fields
(Professor Doyle’s points that he covered)
Prof Doyle started by saying again that Mining is not just something carried out on the Western
Front, then he said where the hell is Gallipoli, and what the hell happened there. Obstacles: (Anzac),
broken terrain, with command and control issues, (Helles): narrow beaches, slopes like valleys. Defended
coastline. Sending untrained ANZAC Troops was not a good idea. Critical rule in mining-understand the
ground. ANZAC (job done by terrain itself) Naval Gunnery-flat projector, On shore-Field Gun verses
howitzers, ANZAC- development of trench systems with Ottomans. HELES- Trench systems diverted as
Allies advances ran out of steam. Clay kicking covered again by Prof Doyle. Chalk/Clay,
tunnelling/listening, Problems existed such as timber transportation(needed for shuttering of tunnels), spoil
disposal, failure of the Allies; ANZAC was on defensive, vulnerability was a real concern, At Helles
stagnation led to offensive action underground. ANZAC-the rugged ground, as Allies left they left the
tunnels, The brutal underground war got worse as time went on.
Denis Herbert
(Battle of the mines;Vauquois 1915-18 and it’s legacy)
(Points covered by Denis)
Denis started by saying that everyone would need to suffer his French
accent, after which he started by saying “Vauquois- the sprayed village”, in 1914 there were 174 people
living in it, 1914-first Germans Offensive, no cannons available to bring to the Front Line. Germans lose
100 men each day. Tunnels-think high to low not low to high as very dangerous, In Vauquois 2 Hospitals
and 1 School just disappeared 174b people lived (all gone), just craters existed of what was the village, 60
tons of explosives had been dispersed. 20 metres divided the German and French lines, Germans didn’t
believe Americans were dangerous. Americans had to be trained by French and British. At beginning of
WW1 French did not have much equipment, American Cemetery of Romagne
Covered (with photo) Denis stated that there were 15,000 graves here.
Simon Jones
a Freelance Historian and battlefield tour guide Simon was formally Assistant Curator
and Exhibition Officer of the Royal Engineers Museum at Cheltenham
and then Curator of the Kings
Regimental Collection at the Museum of Liverpool Life. He teaches courses on the First World War for the
Centre Continuing Education of Liverpool and Lancaster Universities and is developing courses with
Manchester University. Simon’s main First World War research interests are in military engineering,
especially mining and chemical warfare and the Kings (Liverpool) Regiment especially the 8 th Liverpool Irish
Battalion. He is currently working on a book proposal on the development of protection against poison gas
during the First World War; He is a member of the British Commission for Military History.
(Points covered by Simon)
100 charges were laid under “the Glory Hole” fighting for the village of La Boisselle, French took farm
courtyard Christmas 1914, 5th January 1915 first explosion, Germans focus on remaining to retake farm,
Germans plan explosion with mass effect, French Front Line completely destroyed. Tunnels should be as
small as possible and should be timbered, British arrive end of July 1915. Decisions that incline tunnels
won’t work, 24 British tunnellers lost at La Boisselle, Blast wave blew out candles. You can work quietly in
clay but not chalk, so problems with chalk (enemy heard)
Andy Prada . 30 years of award winning broadcast, business and retail TV, video and digital media
specializing in history and military programming through the FOUGASSEFILMS brand.30 years as an
Editor and Post Producer (www.pradamedia.co.uk) Founder member and former chairman of The Durand
Group - a voluntary team of specialists involved in researching and investigating tunnels under the
battlefields of the First World War.(www.durandgroup.org.uk)
(Andy’s Points)
Back for the sea, two Regiments taken (diversion attack) but taken
back by Germans, Joffre (the engineer) and Haig had defences,, men of New Armies not ready, not enough
ammunition ready, But Kitchener had no option but to support the French, Haig (ambitious of troubled)
Haig-shortage of artillery, shortage of ammunition, shortage of men. Without Gas Haig would have had no
chance of success, Mine craters named after engineering officials, three types of tunnels existed (main,
deep and deep-deep.) Australians brought a new type of engineering.
Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph
Wednesday 11th November 2015
Branch Vice Chair Mark Macartney joined Service Personnel and members of the Western Front
Association at the above Ceremony, Everyone assembled in King Charles Street at 10.30, enabling
Marshalls in preparation for the parade. The parade consisted of firstly the Guard of Honour (2 nd BTN
Royal Gurkha Rifles) marched to the Cenotaph and took up position at the Cenotaph, followed by the Khaki
Chums, Members of the Western Front Association and Guests then proceeded to the Cenotaph, led by;
The Pipes and Drums (the London Scottish Regiment) and the Bugler ((The Scots Guards) members of the
Clergy, the Royal Star and Garter Homes, the President of the Western Front Association, the Chairman of
the Western Front association, Wreath Layers led by children representing the Youth of the Nation, Army,
Royal Navy and Air Force Representatives. At 11.00 am the Bugler sounded the “Last Post” prior to the
“Two Minute Silence” which was followed by the Bugler sounding “Reveille” then the wreath layers carried
out their function.
Prayers were led by Brother Nigel Cave and Rudyard Kipling`s poem “My Boy Jack” was read by
Cerys Matthews, The piper then played the Lament “Flowers of the Forest”, The Exhortation was then said
and then the Bugler sounded “Sunset” Formalities over the Western Front Association Precession then left
the Cenotaph and the Khaki Chums marched away. Finally the Guard of Honour marched away from the
Cenotaph and was then dismissed.
On leaving the Cenotaph everyone preceded to the “Royal Military Chapel” (The Guards Chapel)
Wellington Barracks London for the Memorial Service and Thanksgiving, While the Congregation were
being seated the Organist played songs well known to the Men and Women of the Great War and those
who came after. Hymns included were: Mine Eyes have seen the Glory, All People that on Earth Do Dwell,
Who Would True Valour See and Praise my Soul the King of Heaven.
Readings were as follows: Soliloquy read by Mrs Barbara Taylor (WFA), A letter from the
Dardanelles by Captain Beverley Ussher read by Clive Harris (WFA), Lessons from The Bible were read by
the following: Steve Oram (Hon Secretary WFA), and Mrs Sarah Gunn (Office Manager WFA).
A very moving address was given by General Sir Nicholas Carter KCB,CBE,DSO,ADC Gen Chief
of the General Staff.
The Exhortation was read by Mr Bob Patterson, Chairman, The Western Front Association.
Afterwards a large number of Members enjoyed a lovely meal at Peelers Restaurant, New Scotland
Yard. After the meal Chairman Bob Patterson thanked all involved and attendees for making the day such a
success. Trustee David Tattersfield ran a sales pitch for the new 1916 Calendar, and not to be outdone
Mark proceeded round the tables running his sales pitch for the new WFA Lapel Badges. At about 1600 hrs
everyone dispersed and went their own way after a memorable day.
Salient Snippet
Vancouver Corner – Canadian Memorial commemorating the first use of poison gas in 1915
Some WFA & Related Events (2016)
11.15am – 3pm Douglas Haig Foundation Dinner & AGM
th
Friday 29 January
Royal Union Services Institute, Whitehall, London SW1A 2ET
£24 Tickets for Lunch
Prof Gary Sheffield, John Terraine, Douglas Haig and the battle for the History of the First World War
After the talk, Lord Astor will lay a wreath at the Field Marshal’s statue outside RUSI. Members’ guests are
welcome to the lunch, the talk and the wreath laying and should arrive by 12.15pm.
Saturday 13th February
10am -5pm
WFA Suffolk Branch
Waterside Building University Campus Suffolk, Neptune Quay IP4 1QJ
. £25 Tickets, tea/coffee & buffet lunch (Optional Evening Meal £25)
Taking the Initiative
Bill Philpott (Winning the Initiative,Joffre and the General Allies Offensive of 1916)
Jack Sheldon (General Command and Control of the Somme)
Taff Gillingham (British Infantry on the Somme: Learning How to Fight a Modern War)
(Bill Philpot, Jack Sheldon and Taff Gillingham will all take part in a Question & Answer Forum)
10-30 – 5.30pm
Saturday 2nd April
Tally Ho Birmingham
7th Great War Forum Conference
£30 includes tea/coffee/buffet lunch.
Speakers:
Jack Sheldon -
"German Command and Control on the Somme"
Jeremy Banning -
"The Somme Cauldron - Three Years studying Life and Death in the La Boisselle Sector"
Jonathon Boff -
"Haig's Enemy - Crown Prince Rupprecht of Bavaria"
Bill MacCormick
Aimee Fox Godden
“The French on 01/07/1916”
“the lessons learned on the Somme as applied to other theatres”
Saturday 7th May
WFA AGM & Conference
Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum
Speakers:
Andrew Lambert:
Jutland and the meaning of Victory'
Simon Jones:
Crucible of innovation: Salisbury Plain during the Great War'
Richard Van Emden: Unseen photos and writings from the Somme'
(2.45pm-4.30pm formal AGM business 4.30pm closure and delegates leave) –
Saturday 4th June
5th Presidents Conference
Tally Ho Birmingham Tally Ho Birmingham
Theme: "1916: The Somme and Beyond"
Tickets £30
Speakers:
Nik Cornish,
Michael Stedman,
Prof Peter Simkins,
Lar Joye
Saturday 9th July
The Brusilov Offensive
The Most Brutal Days: The Assualt of Theipval 1st July 1916
A Hard-worn Success: the 18th Eastern Division at Theipval Sept 1916
The Irish Soldier in 1916
WFA Somme Anniversary Conference
Manor Academy, Millfield Lane, Nether Poppleton, York YO26 6AP
Theme: "Perspectives on the Somme"
Tickets £30
Speakers
John Bourne,
Reflections on 1st July 1916.
Geoff Spring,
BEF Artillery on the Somme and the lessons learned
Dr Jim Beach
British Intelligence on the Wesyern Front 1916,
Prof Gary Sheffield
Rawlinson on the Somme
Rob Thompson
“The Somme of the Parts”:The BEF Experience on the Somme 1916-1918
Saturday 16th July
0930 – 1600
WFA Wolverhampton Summer 2016 Conference
Sir Jack Hayward Suite Molineux Stadium Waterloo Road Wolverhampton WV1 4QR
Theme: Somme / Football and Midlands
Tickets £25
Dr Spencer Jones:
Andrew Riddoch ('The Footballers Battalion on the Somme' )
Bill MacCormick
('Keeping the Wolves from the door' The Staffordshire Brigade at
Gommecourt 1st July 1916)
Mike Stedman
( 'Success on the Somme' The Fourth army sector of the battlefield 1st14th July 1916)
Saturday 1st October
0930 - 1630
Cornerstones, Chester-le-Street DH3 3TF
WFA Durham Centenary Conference
,
£25 ticket, includes tea/coffee/Buffet Lunch
Prof. Eric Grove –
(Jutland)
Prof. Holger Afflerbach – (Verdun)
Prof. William Philpott – (The Somme)
Prof. Sir Hew Strachan – (The Strategic Importance of 1916)
(Conference Chairman - Prof. John Derry)
Short Magazine Lee Enfield Rifle
At our January 2016 meeting one of our Founder Members – Dave Mellors and his son gave us an
excellent `hands on ` demonstration of a 1915 pattern Short Magazine Lee Enfield Rifle and bayonet –
the former deactivated, of course.
Please find some additional information on this formidable weapon, arguably the best weapon any
infantryman was ever equipped with.
The principal weapon of the British soldier from 1904 was the Short, Magazine Lee Enfield rifle
SMLE to most soldiers. The SMLE was based on its predecessor the Magazine, Lee Enfield (MLE) first
introduced in 1895. The MLE was the first British service rifle to be equipped with a ten round magazine
and was famed for its bolt action, which cocked the striker when the bolt was closed, a swift action,
important in battle, meaning the weapon could be cocked and fired rapidly.
The intention was to build upon the reliability of this arm, but to shorten it, lighten it and provide
the means of its loading through a charger fed magazine system – thereby capitalising on its superior bolt
action. The SMLE Mark 1 was developed following experiences with the MLE in the Boer War which
indicated that a lighter, more easily handled, better sighting and quicker loading weapon was needed. The
resulting rifle, the SMLE was to appear on 23 December 1902. It was 5 inches shorter than its forerunner
(although with three but sizes fitted to soldiers of differing stature) and was both easier to handle and
capable of being used as an infantry rifle and cavalry carbine.
The charger system used by the SMLE allowed for 5 rounds to be loaded at a time, the magazine
holding ten altogether. In British service, the `charger` was a clip that held five rounds of the standard Mar
VII cartridges – known as the `ball cartridge`. The charger was discarded when the cartridges were pressed
home, forced downwards into the spring loaded magazine that was capable of holding ten rounds in total.
The high capacity magazine and efficient bolt action meant that in the right hands the rifle had an
impressive rate of fire. Well trained soldiers could fire around 15 aimed bullets a minute with the SMLE –
while the record – set in 1914, was 38 bullets fired in a minute, a prodigious rate of fire.
The SMLE was to undergo several modifications through to its last model, the Mark VI, in 1926. It
would be one of the most admired bolt action rifles in history. The early Mark 1 rifles had provision for a
long range volley site, with an effective range of 1500-2000 yards. The SMLE Mark III, introduced in 1907
with changes to its sights and charger loading system was the main rifle to be used in the war; from
January 1916 simplifications to this rifle (SMLE Mark III*) were made in order to speed up production for
the New Army. Among other things, the volley sights, no longer needed in trench warfare with the decline
in musketry skills, were omitted, along with such niceties as the magazine cut off.
The Munitions Crisis - part 5
Political crises never come out of the blue. Clouds gather in the sky, sometimes from one quarter,
sometimes from many. Suddenly one of those clouds is black with menace, approaches with surprising
speed, hangs right overhead and breaks into angry flashes. The political crisis of 1915 was no exception
and was due to a combination of factors which had been at work for some time. The final addition of one
extra cause for discontent at the existing conditions provoked the storm which swept away the Liberal
government but it is incorrect to ascribe the change in government solely, or mainly to the shell shortage.
The general dissatisfaction with the conduct of the war, of which there were many symptoms, and of
which the culmination was reached in the second half of May, was not only due to the realisation of the
munitions situation. Other contributing factors were the failure of the offensive in France, as to which
expectations had been unduly raised; and disappointment over the result of the Dardanelles, with a
growing feeling that the expedition was either misconceived or muddled. Underlying the various specific
grounds for anxiety was the sense that the war was not being treated either with sufficient serious or
adequate energy. Indeed for five and a half weeks, from 6 th April to the 14th May, the War Council had not
been convened.
There were many, who had no desire to provoke a crisis but considered that if an improvement
were not soon effected we should lose the war. This opinion was held very strongly by many members of
the Opposition, who had so far loyally supported the government. On 14th May, the War Council sat again
for the first time and the long gap. Its meeting was purely formal and only one or two members were
summoned. On that day there appeared in the Press the outburst on the shell situation, as previously
described, but next day occurred the incident which actually brought matters to a head – the resignation
from the Admiralty of Lord `Jackie` Fisher over the Dardanelles policy. It had long been known that Lord
Fisher was opposed to the attempt to force the Dardanelles by the Navy alone, but his resignation which
deprived the country of its most distinguished naval expert, was the match which, applied to the
discontent generated everywhere, blew up the complacency of the politicians. With it went the
government under which the war began.
The leader of the Unionist party, Mr Bonar Law had supported the government consistently
throughout the months of the war without seeking party advantage but there was growing discontent
amongst his party members at this attitude of unqualified, especially the treatment of enemy aliens, the
deficiency of shells and the failure of the Dardanelles expedition.. Bonar Law was particularly emphatic as
to the impossibility of Winston Churchill remaining at the Admiralty if Fisher persisted in his resignation.
On this point Bonar Law made it clear that the Opposition meant to force a parliamentary challenge. The
Prime Minister, Asquith, at once recognised that in order to avert a serious Parliamentary conflict, if it did
not actually bring about its defeat, would certainly damage the prestige of the government. Thus it
became necessary to reconstruct the Cabinet and introduce some of the leaders of the Conservative Party
– a Coalition.
The actual appointments were a subject which might best be described as haggling between the parties.
The worst controversy came over Lord Haldane and Reginald McKenna, both whom the Conservatives had
taken a fierce dislike to, on what, many would judge as unreasonable grounds.
Reginald McKenna
Richard Haldane
Lord Haldane was considered to be the moderniser of the Army and the originator of the BEF, but in the
expediency to form the Coalition, he was sacrificed as the Unionists perceived that he had been, certainly
in pre-war days, sympathetic to Germany whilst McKenna remained, being promoted the Chancellor of
the Exchequer .
On the same day as the formation of the Coalition was announced, the subject of munitions was debated
in the House of Commons. The next day, in the House of Lords, Kitchener admitted the delay in producing
the material which it had been foreseen would be required and attributed it to the unprecedented and
almost unlimited calls on the manufacturing resources of the country. The final composition of the
coalition government was settled on 25th May, the most notable changes being the removal of Haldane
and the demotion of Winston Churchill from the Admiralty.
Apart from the appointment of individuals, one of the most important decisions reached, was that
to form a Ministry of Munitions. Prime Minister Asquith invited David Lloyd George to take charge of this
new ministry and subsequently Lloyd George vacated the office of Chancellor of the Exchequer (originally
on a temporary basis) to take up this new appointment on Whit Monday, 1915.
For Lloyd George, he was leaving a well-established and well organised department to take over a
department with no staff, no regulations and no traditions. Despite the fact that the successful prosecution
of the war depended upon the new Ministry delivering results – and quickly, it was viewed by other
departments with profound dislike, even contempt. The very existence of the Ministry was a statutory
expression of a national verdict of failure delivered by Parliament against the War Office. The War Office
was surly, suspicious and hostile rendering no assistance towards the new Ministry, which was faced with
numerous problems – serious issues with organised labour over trade union regulations, hours of labour,
and potentially the most serious of all, the issue of ` dilution` i.e. the mixing of skilled labour with unskilled.
The issue of alcohol availability had to be tackled and this would bring the new Ministry, and its Executive,
Lloyd George, into conflict with the powerful Brewery Trade in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.
The Ministry of Munitions Act became law on 9th June 1915 and the new Ministry`s first quarters
were at No. 6 Whitehall Gardens and immediately government `red tape` caused problems with the
Department having struggles on the early days to even acquire basic office furniture.
Then came the creation of a staff, the Ministry of Munitions had to be from first to last a business
organisation with successful businessmen being approached and recruited to the chief executive posts,
some in London, but others in the regions to inform, instruct and direct. Each was given the authority to
enable them to break through much of the routine and aloofness that so often at that time characterised
the normal administration of government contracts. One of the first to tender his services was Sir Eric
Geddes, from the North Eastern Railway Company, who was placed in charge of transportation on the
Western Front.
Sir Eric Geddes
Initially, the Minister, David Lloyd George had only two Private Secretaries, Mr (later Sir) J. T. Davies
and Miss Frances Stevenson, both of whom had worked for Lloyd George at the Treasury. Miss Stevenson
was the first woman secretary appointed by a Government Minister. She was also Lloyd George`s mistress
and married him in 1943, two years after his wife died. Lloyd George himself died in March 1945.
To be continued