The Project Gutenberg EBook of Through Palestine with the 20th Machine Gun
Squadron, by Unknown
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Title: Through Palestine with the 20th Machine Gun Squadron
Author: Unknown
Release Date: November 19, 2005 [EBook #17109]
Language: English
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[Transcriber's note:
1. Some of the biblical references in the original seem to be mistaken. All
the references were left as in the original. The following is a list of
uncertain references, usually together with a possible alternate reference.
Footnote Original Suggestion
[7] III Kings i II Kings i
Zech. iv, 5 Zech. ix, 5
[10] Judges l, 18 Judges i, 18
Jeph. ii, 4 Zeph. ii, 4
[13] Matt. xii, 40 ?
Acts x, 9 Several times in Acts x, but not verse 9
[15] II Kings ii, 11 II Kings ii, 15
[20] Judges iv, 3 Judges vi, 33
v, 21 Mentions the Kishon which borders Esdraelon
vi, 1 Judges vii, 1
[21] Psalms xxxix, 12 Psalms lxxxix, 12
[25] Deut. xiv, 5 ?
I Kings iv, 23 I Kings iv, 11 mentions Dor, a village in
the vicinity
xviii, 13 xviii, 19
Isa. lv, 12 ?
[29] II Kings vi II Kings v
vii ?
xiii ?
xv ?
[30] John i, 47 ?
[34] Josh. xiii, 2 Josh. xiii, 5
Judges iii, 1 Judges iii, 3
II Chron. ii, 2 II Chron. ii, 8 or 16
Isa. xxxv, 17 Isa. xxxv, 2
[40] I Kings xviii, 34 II Kings xviii, 34
xix, 13 II Kings xix, 13
2. As there is no one way to transcribe Arabic and Hebrew place names, I
left all the names as they appear in the original. Nevertheless, I tried to
keep consistency and used a single spelling when a place was mentioned
using two possible spellings.
3. The inconsistency of capitalization (e.g., Sub-section/sub-section,
Sergeant/sergeant) and punctuation (mostly inside/outside quotation marks)
are thus in the original book.]
[Illustration]
[Illustration]
Through Palestine
with the
Twentieth
Machine-Gun
Squadron.
Printed and Published
for private circulation
by
J.M. BAXTER & CO.,
20 Appold Street,
London--E.C.2.
Foreword.
This Booklet has been compiled with the object of enabling the members of
the 20th Machine-Gun Squadron to recall the principal incidents in its
history, as well as to allow their friends and relations to obtain some
idea of their experiences whilst they were serving with the Egyptian
Expeditionary Force.
Although no pains have been spared to obtain accuracy, the statements made
must, necessarily, not be regarded as _absolutely_ authoritative.
Beyond doubt, many brave deeds, fully deserving of mention in these pages,
must have been unavoidably overlooked, in which case the leniency of
readers is requested.
In view of the probability that the incidents described herein may be read
by many persons who have not been to the East, explanations have frequently
been included, which might appear to some as unnecessary.
The writer is indebted to several members of the Squadron for their
valuable assistance, without which, obviously, it would have been very
difficult to have given an adequate account of any particular incident at
which he was not present in person.
THE AUTHOR.
_1st July 1920._
Glossary.
The following are a few descriptive terms which occur in the following
pages, with place-names, and the abbreviations used:--
ABU Father.
AIN Spring.
BEIT House.
BIRKETT Pool.
BIR Well.
DEIR Monastery.
ED, EL, ER, ES, EZ The definite article THE
JEBEL Mountain.
JISR Bridge.
KEFR Village.
KAHN Inn.
KHURBET (abbrev. KH.) Ruin.
MAKHADET Ford.
NAHR River.
NEBY A Prophet.
RAS Head, cape, top.
SHEIKH (abbrev. SH.) Chief, elder, saint.
TEL Mound (especially one covering ruins).
WADI A watercourse (normally dry).
TIME.
The following table shows the military method of stating the time which is
used throughout this book:--
1 a.m. 01.00
2 " 02.00
3.15 " 03.15
6.45 " 06.45
12 midday 12.00
1 p.m. 13.00
2.35 " 14.35
3.50 " 15.50
8 " 20.00
10 " 22.00
12 midnight 24.00
12.15 a.m. 00.15
THROUGH PALESTINE WITH THE 20TH MACHINE-GUN SQUADRON.
PART I.
FORMATION OF THE SQUADRON.
It was on the 4th July 1917 that authority was given to the 7th Mounted
Brigade (then at Ferry-Post, Ismailia), for the formation of a MACHINE-GUN
SQUADRON to be known as the "20th." It was to consist of "Headquarters" and
only three sub-sections, there being but two regiments (instead of the
usual three) in the 7th Brigade.
On July 4th, Lieut. E.P. Cazalet and Lieut. E.B. Hibbert, machine gun
officers of the Notts (Sherwood Rangers) Yeomanry and South Notts Hussars
respectively, brought their sub-sections to the new camp. Lieut. C.D.
Macmillan also arrived from the "S.N.H." From these two regiments there
came, in all, 3 officers, 121 men and 98 animals (horses and mules). The
"A" Sub-section was formed of "S.R.Y." men; the "B" Sub-section of "S.N.H."
men, "C" Sub-section being composed of both "S.R.Y." and "S.N.H." men.
From the commencement, the Squadron "carried on" under very difficult
conditions, as, out of its total strength of 121, only 30 men were
qualified gunners, and 63 had never previously been attached to a Machine
Gun Section. Then there were fresh animals to draw from "Remounts" besides
new saddlery and equipment from "Ordnance". The health of the Squadron,
also, was at first none too good; a large number of men had contracted
malaria whilst with the Brigade in Salonica, and many others were liable to
septic sores, after two years' sojourn in Egypt, Suvla and Salonica. From
time to time, seven days' leave was granted to small parties to the Rest
Camp, Port Said, and lucky were those men whose turn it was to go!
In due course, on July 30th 1917, Lieut. D. Marshall (Fife & Forfar
Yeomanry), arrived from the 4th "M.G." Company. He had been "posted" as
Commanding Officer, and "took over" from Lieut. Cazalet; shortly afterwards
he was promoted to the rank of Captain.
The first reinforcements to reach the Squadron from the training centre at
Maresfield Park, England, were Ptes. Ramsay and Wick on August 4th 1917.
Pte. Ramsay at once took up the duties of orderly-room clerk, and was
subsequently promoted sergeant. The work of equipping, organising and
training were hurried on, the new guns tested on the range, and at length,
on August 6th, the Squadron was inspected with the Brigade by General
Bailloud.
On August 8th, Capt. E. Davies (previously with the 7th Brigade in Egypt)
arrived from "leave" in the United Kingdom, and was posted to the Squadron
as "second in command". Orders were received on August 10th that the
Brigade would move to the Palestine front on the 12th--within a month of
the M.G. Squadron being formed!
OUR TREK TO AMR, THROUGH THE DESERT OF THE SINAI PENINSULA.
The forthcoming continuous trek (which lasted 18 days) through the desert
at the hottest time of the year was no light task for a new unit to
contemplate, and the two days in which to make all the preparations were
none too many; yet, everything _was_ ready by the time ordered for parade,
and from that moment the "20TH M.G. SQUADRON" became a fighting force!
There was, however, a lot of training still to be done, before it could
hope to play its proper part in active operations.
The organisation of the transport for the unit was one of the greatest
difficulties to be overcome. No one, unless he has actually seen it, would
believe the energy required to pull even a lightly loaded wheeled vehicle
through the desert sand, which, in places, is of the soft "silver" variety
found at many English seaside resorts.
Each "G.S." (general service) limbered wagon is designed to carry about a
ton, and is drawn by 4 mules. On this occasion, however, 4 cwts. was the
maximum load, and for this 6 mules were required in every case. In spite of
such a team, the going was hard enough, in very truth, and sore shoulders
were not uncommon, owing to the mules being so "soft," and the new
breast-collars so hard!
It was not long before the advantage a "M.G." Squadron possesses, in being
able to change "pack" mules to "draught" and _vice versa_, was seen, this
method relieving sore shoulders and sore backs by one simple operation.
Although an early start was made every day, many miles had to be traversed
with the sun right overhead; the afternoon was usually well advanced before
the horses had been watered, lines put down, and shelters erected,
blankets, rifles, bayonets and bits of string being used for this purpose.
The following were the days' marches:--
1917.
August 12th to El Ferdan.
" 13th " Kantara (Hill 70). Long day in great heat.
" 14th at Kantara drawing ordnance stores.
" 15th to Pelusium 13 miles.
" 16th " Romani 7 miles. Heavy going.
" 17th " Khirba 14 miles.
" 18th " Bir el Abd 7 miles. Heavy going.
" 19th " Tilul, watering at Salmana.
" 20th " Bir el Masar 8 miles.
" 21st " Maadan 15 miles. Very heavy going and particularly hot.
" 22nd " Bardawil 8 miles. Good going.
" 23rd " El Arish 8 miles. Heavy going.
" 24th Rested.
" 25th to El Burd 11 miles.
" 26th " Sheikh Zowaid, by the shore. Very heavy.
" 27th " Rafa.
" 28th at Rafa obtaining stores which were sent forward by rail.
" 29th to Amr into camp, 1 mile south of railway.
It may here be mentioned that, at this time, the Kantara Military Railway
had been completed as far as Shellal, and whilst on the march, rations and
forage were drawn from "dumps" which had been placed at intervals along the
line. As regards drinking water, this was brought up every day on camels.
The supply of water was not too plentiful by any means, and it required a
certain amount of care and self-restraint to make it last the appointed
time, in fact, strict water-discipline was very necessary among all ranks.
It was a tired but wiser Squadron that arrived at Amr! Many were the
difficulties that had been overcome, and many the hardships that had been
silently endured!
THE SQUADRON AT AMR.
Having arrived at Amr, further progress was made in the training of the
unit. Each day one man was "told off" to three animals, the remainder thus
being free for work on the gun. The "horse-men" did one hour on the gun,
remainder of day on animals. "Gun-numbers" worked one hour at stables and
the remainder of the day on the gun. The daily routine was as
follows:--Reveille 04.30; Parades, 06.30 to 10.00 and 15.00 to 17.30.
Horses were watered twice (from troughs at the railway), and fed four times
a day.
As early as September 8th, there was a test "turn-out" of the Squadron in
full marching order, with guns on packs. The new regulations regarding
rations and forage included "Iron" and two days' emergency-rations (in
wallets) for the man, and one day's emergency-forage (9 lbs. of grain), in
a "sandbag" rolled in a ground-sheet and carried on the front arch of the
saddle, for the horse, in addition to the two days' forage carried in the
nosebags; furthermore one day's rations and forage were carried on the
wagons. The time taken for the turn-out was actually 2 hours 10 minutes. No
doubt many members who read this will smile at the recollection of the
incident--and well they might! Three days later the Squadron paraded in
exactly _half_ that time, and when, on September 13th, there was a test
Divisional "turn-out," all that was needed was 44 minutes--not a bad
achievement for marching-order with nothing ready!
On September 13th the formation of a fourth Sub-section was approved. It
was just about this time that the "Khamseen" became very troublesome. This
is a strong wind that blows at this season of the year, particularly in the
afternoon. The soil at Amr being a mixture of fine sand and dust, the
result can be better imagined than described; it was so bad that on two
days training was entirely suspended!
"Mounted" training was started on September 22nd, and in the absence, at
that time, of any "set" official-drill (one actually did exist, but was
known only to those who had passed through the Machine-Gun Cavalry training
centre in England of whom there were not half-a-dozen in the Squadron), the
O.C. (Capt. D. Marshall) thought out, and perfected, a drill that was easy
to pick up, and was one which, in all respects, fulfilled requirements.
Everything was proceeding most satisfactorily, the men were keen, and,
towards the end of September, firing practice was started on a 25-yard
range. Everybody fired the course.
In a Machine-Gun Squadron every man is mounted on a horse (some Squadrons,
however, had mules for draught as did the "20th"), except the cooks, who
are allowed bicycles. As the speed of bicycles in the middle of a desert
proved to be quite out of proportion to the labour expended, 13 donkeys
were finally issued in lieu thereof. These splendid little animals were
found to be very useful, besides providing a source of amusement for a
long time to come. In camp they would play about just like dogs, standing
up on their hind legs and romping about with each other. The natives' usual
method of riding a donkey in the East is rather comical. They sit _well_ to
the rear, in fact right over the hind-quarters, and with their feet
forward, these they wave in and out between the animal's legs, and thereby
make him increase his pace. A turn to either flank is accomplished by their
hitting him on the neck with a stick, or putting their toe in his eye!
[Illustration]
On October 1st-3rd "A" Sub-section went on a reconnaissance with the
Brigade, which, however, was "in support" at Reshid Beck, and not called
upon for active work. Meanwhile the training continued--Squadron drill,
section schemes and N.C.O.'s rides. The completion of the Squadron to the
full establishment of six Sub-sections (12 guns) was sanctioned on October
9th, although the supply of horses was stated to be doubtful. On that date
the Squadron was inspected by the G.O.C. the Brigade, Brig.-Gen. J.T.
Wigan, C.M.G., D.S.O.
DRAFT FROM MARESFIELD PARK, ENGLAND.
Lieut. Raynor arrived with 47 "O.R.'s" on Oct. 9th. These were part of a
draft of 15 officers and 250 men under Capt. R.O. Hutchinson, who had left
England on September 13th. Before starting on their journey the draft had
been complimented upon their appearance by the C.O. of the Training Centre,
and told that "they should consider themselves lucky to be going to a
country where real cavalry tactics could be employed". And so it proved to
be! This draft arrived at Alexandria on September 27th, and proceeded to
the M.G.C. Base Depot, Helmieh, Cairo, after a very pleasant but uneventful
journey, via Southampton, Havre, Marseilles and Malta. The journey through
France was by a route not previously used for troops, and the French people
were very friendly and enthusiastic, cheering frequently. Apparently the
population here were not accustomed to the sight of British troops. At
Marseilles they embarked on H.M.T. "Minetonka" (a splendid ship, but very
crowded), which, being built for the North-Atlantic traffic, was rather hot
for the Mediterranean. Two very efficient Japanese destroyers escorted her
throughout the whole journey.
At first, it was thought that the "draft" was intended to form an entirely
new unit, but they had not long been in Egypt before officers and men were
posted to various existing Squadrons. The importance of this draft is
indicated, to some extent, by the fact that within a short time every
Machine Gun Squadron in the E.E.F. (except one), was commanded by an
officer who had come out with it.
PREPARATIONS FOR WAR.
Early in October 1917, the C.O.'s of units were informed of the approaching
operations against the enemy, and given a general idea of the plan of
campaign. On the 17th of the month, Headquarters and three Sub-sections
marched, with the Brigade, across the desert to Bir el Esani. The country,
up to this point, was patrolled by the Imperial Camel Corps (I.C.C.), and
it might be termed the limit of the country so far in British occupation,
as, at Esani, patrols of British and Turks were frequently in the habit of
watering their horses in the wadi _when the other was not about_! The next
day (October 18th), a reconnaissance was made across the Wadi Mirtaba and
towards Goz-el-Naam. "B" and "C" Sub-sections were attached to the "S.R.Y."
and "S.N.H." but saw no "targets" to justify the opening of machine-gun
fire. "A" Sub-section was in reserve. The following day (the 19th), the
Brigade returned to Amr. The experience gained by the Machine Gun Squadron
during these operations proved to be most valuable; the animals were fit,
but certainly rather fagged; the transport was found to be too heavily
loaded, and the pack-animals were also tired.
Orders were now received that when operations started the Squadron would
move out five Sub-sections strong. This would mean a severe test for "D"
and "E" Sub-sections. "D" Sub-section under Lieut. Raynor, was well in
hand, although only formed a few weeks previously, but the equipment for
"E" (and "F") had only just been drawn!
HIGH-SPEED WORK.
On October 20th, Lieut. Price, M.C., Lieut. Millman and Sec.-Lieut. Kindell
(all from the recent draft from Maresfield) arrived at the Camp. Lieut.
Price at once took over the organization of "E"; Lieut. Millman was
nominally posted to "F" and Sec.-Lieut. Kindell supernumerary, for the time
being. It could hardly be said that the formation of "E" Sub-section had
been "rushed"! The term is hardly suitable--"Cyclonic" would be nearer the
mark! It literally had horses and equipment issued to it one day, and was
fighting the next. At length, on October 25th, definite orders were
received for the first phase of the projected operations against Beersheba
to be undertaken, and, the next day, Sec.-Lieut. Kindell and three O.R.'s
(Ptes. Carr, Ineson and Marshall), with representatives from other units of
the Brigade, proceeded with the Staff Captain and Brigade Intelligence
Officer, to Esani, in order to "take-over" the camping area and reconnoitre
the outpost-line there.
Lieut. Macmillan and five O.R.'s (Ptes. J. Howlett, A. Jacques, S. Morris,
A. Tivey and E.A. Riley), who were chosen as stout-hearted men, reported to
Col. Newcombe, R.E., D.S.O., at Gamli, for special duty. Bad luck attended
them, however! The whole party was captured a few days later.[1]
The following is the official account of this adventure:--
"To assist in completing the rout of the Turkish troops retiring
from Beersheba, a small mobile force on camels, consisting of Lewis
gunners, machine gunners, and a few Sudanese Arab scouts, under
Lieut.-Col. S.F. Newcombe, R.E., D.S.O., left Asluj on October 30.
It had a number of machine guns and Lewis guns, a large quantity of
small-arms ammunition, and carried three days' rations. Moving
rapidly, it established its headquarters at Yutta, and on October
31 occupied some high ground west of, and commanding the road
between Dhaheriyeh and Hebron. It was hoped that the Turks,
retiring by night from Beersheba, would encounter this force,
which, taking them by surprise, would, by its large fire-power put
them to rout, and cause a general débâcle on the Turkish left-wing.
However, as the Anzac Mounted Division had cut the road further
south, the Turkish forces from Beersheba retired north to Tel esh
Sheria. The force, nevertheless, succeeded in intercepting and
capturing the motor transport with supplies, which was endeavouring
to reach Beersheba from Jerusalem.
"The Turks were surprised by the appearance of this force, and
having no idea of its numbers, despatched the 12th Depot Regiment
from Hebron, and the 143rd Regiment from Tel esh Sheria--six
battalions in all--to dislodge it. It held out resolutely, but,
after sustaining heavy casualties and having exhausted all its
ammunition, was obliged to surrender on November 2 or 3."
The personnel (32 O.R.'s) and equipment of "F" Sub-sections, were sent to
"Brigade Details" at Gamli under Lieut. Millman, no horses being then
available.
[Illustration]
FOOTNOTES:
[1] _Note: (Lieut. Macmillan returned to Alexandria on 21st November
1918 from Smyrna, as a repatriated prisoner of war.)_
PART II.
The Beersheba Campaign.
MARCH TO ESANI.
On the morning of October 28th 1917, the Squadron marched from Amr, across
the 16 miles of desert to Esani. It consisted of--
Seven officers, 182 men, 10 guns, 156 riding horses, 70 draught and
31 pack animals, 13 donkeys; with transport of ("A" Echelon), water
cart, 12 limbered G.S. wagons; ("B.1" Echelon) three L.G.S. wagons,
carrying reserve day's forage and rations; ("B.2" Echelon) one G.S.
wagon.
So far as can be ascertained now, the following were the W.O. and N.C.O.'s
of the Squadron at this time:--
_Headquarters_: S.S.M. Larwood, S.Q.M.S. Harrison, Far.-Sergt.
Robertson, Transport-Sergt. Conuel, Sig.-Corpl. Billam, S.S.-Corpl.
Holmes, Saddler-Corpl. Mellett.
_"A" Sub-section_: Sergt. Fisher, Lance-Corpl. Rouse, Lance-Corpl.
Keetley.
_"B" Sub-section_: Sergt. Potts, Corpl. Hazlehurst, Lance-Corpl.
Hughes, Lance-Corpl. Peadon.
_"C" Sub-section_: Sergt. Wright, Corpl. Gill, Nos. 1. Pte. S. Kidd,
Pte. P. Lee.
_"D" Sub-section_: Sergt. Fleet, Corpl. Barrett, Lance-Corpl. Green,
Lance-Corpl. Marriott.
_"E" Sub-section_: Sergt. O'Neill, Corpl. Franklin, Lance-Corpl.
Grice, Lance-Corpl. Thompson.
Upon arrival at their destination, everyone who had previously been there,
on reconnaissance, was struck by the great changes that had taken place
within such a short time; the locality had, in fact, become one huge camp.
There were armoured cars, R.E.s, motor-tractors, besides thousands of
camels--indeed, every branch of the service was represented. Incidentally,
it may be mentioned that these preparations were not hidden from the Turks,
whose aeroplanes came over every day and dropped bombs, without, however,
doing much damage.
The camping site for the Squadron proved to be in a wide gully, leading up
from the Wadi Ghuzze, between two hills. After watering in the wadi (to
reach which a rather steep slope had to be negotiated), "lines" were put up
and the new bivouac sheets recently issued, erected, after which, having
had something to eat, the Squadron was able to enjoy a well-earned rest. In
the very early hours of the following morning "C" Sub-section, under
Sec.-Lieut. Kindell (who now took command in the absence of Lieut.
Macmillan), proceeded with the "S.R.Y." to take up the day outpost-line
some few miles north-east of Reshid Beck. It soon became evident that the
Turk had intended to occupy this line, as he contested it with rifle fire;
he was, however, _just a little too late_ and had to withdraw! The position
we now occupied afforded splendid observation of all the surrounding
country. In fact, the ground dropped abruptly to a plain several miles
wide, cut by wadis and studded with low mounds; on the right the Wadi
Ghuzze with a narrow stream of water on one side, wended its way across the
plain, almost to our lines.
[Illustration]
On the other side of the plain, on the banks of the wadi, the tents of a
Turkish camp could plainly be seen, and (by the aid of a pair of field
glasses), the Turks themselves, going about their work. During the day
various officers from an infantry division came up to the post in order to
view the ground, over which, they stated, they were going to attack, in two
days' time. At dusk our troops withdrew through the night-outpost line; "C"
Sub-section, with the one limber that accompanied it, returned to camp,
independently. On this day the Squadron watering-party was bombed by
hostile aircraft, but no casualties occurred. October 30th was spent in
"resting," and in the afternoon every man was directed to lie down in his
"bivvy" from 13.00 to 17.00 hrs. (1 p.m. to 5 p.m.)! Upon being asked by
the Orderly Officer why he was not complying with this order, one man
remarked to his pal: "Well, that's the first time I've been stopped doing
work in the Army"! It was, however, very necessary, as, that night at 20.30
(8.30 p.m.), the Brigade, commanded by Brig.-Gen. J.T. Wigan, C.M.G.,
D.S.O., started on its approach-march after watering.
THE APPROACH-MARCH TO BEERSHEBA.
The "going" was, most of the way, through thick sand with a lot of green
scrub. Doubtless, everybody who took part in that march will ever remember
the incidents and details of the operations--and the indescribable dust.
Temperature very cold; "loads off"; "loads on"; at frequent intervals.
So--on, through the night; generally at the walk, occasionally trotting;
hearing, at one point, intermittent rifle-fire (on the left flank), and,
with now and then, "VERY LIGHTS" being put up. Later on, a white stone
building was passed (apparently unoccupied) called "Ibn Said".
After several hours' marching, a road and a narrow gauge Turkish railway
were crossed, both of which were understood to lead to Beersheba. At
length, the position was reached on Itwail El Semin, 7 miles south of
Beersheba, just before daybreak, where the transport ("A" Echelon) soon
found us. "A" and "B" Sub-sections were immediately attached to the
"S.R.Y." and "S.N.H." respectively, and took up positions in front of
Ras-Hablein and Goz-el-Naam.
It was not long before it became evident that there _was_ "something
doing". Yes, the great event for which the Squadron had been preparing
since its formation was about to take place! The 7th Mounted Brigade found
itself "up against" a series of strongly-held trenches on Ras-Hablein to
Ras-Ghannam. The 60th Infantry Division was on its left and the Australians
on its right. The plan of attack, as given in the official publication: "_A
Brief Record of the Advance of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force_" was as
follows:--
"... for the 60th and 74th Divisions to seize the enemy works
between the Khalasa Road and the Wadi Saba, while the defences
north of the Wadi were masked by the Imperial Camel Corps Brigade
and two battalions of the 53rd Division. The Anzac Mounted
Division, Australian Mounted Division and 7th Mounted Brigade were
to attack the defences of the town from the north-east, east and
south-east".
The progress of the attack all along the line could be seen from the top of
Itwail. The Turk, everywhere, clung tenaciously to his main positions.
During the whole morning and afternoon, rifle and shell-fire were continued
on both sides. "B" Sub-section covered the advance of the "S.N.H." The
Essex Battery R.H.A., in action at this time, came in for a bad quarter of
an hour, but fortunately escaped with slight casualties, when, at 16.00 (4
p.m.) orders were issued to attack Beersheba!
The Brigade at once formed up in a cloud of dust, and, led by its General
as if on a ceremonial parade at home, started off at the trot to the
attack. Soon, the dust became so dense (especially in the centre of the
Brigade), that it was impossible to see two yards in front. After going a
mile or two, a halt was made under cover of a hill for a few minutes, then
on again. To the surprise of everyone, little opposition was now offered,
and it soon became apparent that the Turk had fled, although reinforced
during the day, the sight of an English Cavalry Brigade advancing, proving
too much for him! Another halt, another trot, then the position was taken!
WE TAKE TURKISH TRENCHES.
Until quite recently, the Turk had been content merely to patrol the
country south and east of Beersheba, but our concentration at Esani had
made him uneasy about his left flank, and he had hastily dug a line of
trenches and manned them, hoping to put up a strong opposition to our
advance. These were the trenches we had now taken; and they constituted a
strong position too, the hills being particularly steep in front of them.
Having captured the position and enjoyed a short rest, the Brigade pushed
on again after dark--this time in column of route, but "at the walk," as it
was "pitch-black" and the ground rough and rocky. Well on in the evening, a
welcome change in the going occurred, as we came out upon a road (the same
one crossed in the morning); a proper road, a _real_ road like one at home
in England! It seemed strange, indeed, after the miles of desert; the
horses appreciated it too! Later, the moon having risen, a long halt was
made, after which the road towards Beersheba was resumed. Every mile or so,
by the wayside were now passed remains of Turkish camps, dead animals,
overturned wagons, abandoned ammunition, etc., etc. The enemy had evidently
left in "some" haste. But there were still isolated parties of the enemy in
the hills, from which direction shots could be heard from time to time.
BEERSHEBA AT LAST!
After a long and gruelling journey, during which everyone was dead tired
and the horses badly in need of water, the outskirts of the "town" of
Beersheba were at last reached. Here the Squadron halted, whilst the units
in front "watered". It then became known to us that Beersheba had already
been occupied by the Australians, who, no doubt, had come in from the
flank. As regards the "water," this was contained in a long stone trough,
and, although it was thick with mud, it was all that could be had. Yet, of
this filth the animals drank deeply, not having tasted a drop of liquid
_for 24 hours_!
After "watering," a camping-area for the night was allotted to the Squadron
near by. The animals having been off-saddled and fed, everyone was glad to
be able to lie down in his clothes and snatch some sleep during the few
remaining hours, until it was time to "stand to" in the morning. Before
daybreak the Squadron saddled-up and moved off into the plain outside the
town. Here it halted in "Line of Sub-section Column" and dismounted. No
sooner had the sun risen, however, when machine-gun fire broke out from all
directions. At once the order was given to extend for rifle fire. Everyone
expected to see the dust thrown up all round by the thousands of bullets
which were being fired, and prepared for a great mêlée, but--nothing
happened! _A perfect tornado of fire_ and nothing whatever could be seen!
After a few minutes, to the surprise of all, everything was quiet again!
The explanation was obtained afterwards: all that had happened was that a
Boche plane had appeared over our outpost line. He must, certainly, have
had a hot reception!
Then "lines" were put down, animals off-saddled again and a much needed
wash-up and shave indulged in--after watering and stables. To feel clean
once more and to be able to have a sleep in the heat of the day, which at
this time was intense (in spite of the cold nights), was a treat enjoyed by
all.
Beersheba was very disappointing. Instead of being a town, as Europeans
understand that term, a place where one can buy such things as cigarettes
and something to eat, nothing at all was obtainable, and the only buildings
in it, that were not mud huts, were empty.[2]
During our stay at Beersheba, enemy planes, often flying quite low, paid us
several visits, for whose benefit one Sub-section always had its guns
mounted for anti-aircraft work. On one of these raids two men and several
animals, in an Australian Field Ambulance a couple of hundred yards from
the Squadron Camp, were killed. One man had a "narrow shave". He was
standing beside his horse when the plane appeared, and, for safety, he
jumped into a trench that happened to be at hand still holding the reins.
The animal was killed, but he himself escaped without a scratch!
FOOTNOTES:
[2] _Beersheba--"Well of the oath": See Genesis, chaps. xxi and xxvi,
v. 23 and 32._
THE COASTAL SECTOR.
To the 21st Infantry Corps in front of Gaza, had been given the task of
attracting enemy reserves to that neighbourhood, thus to lighten the task
of the troops on the right of the line, in the capture of Beersheba. On
October 27th, a bombardment of the elaborate Gaza defences had been
commenced, assisted by the Navy, and on the night of November 1st-2nd,
"Umbrella Hill" was captured, followed in the early morning _by the whole
of the front-line system of trenches_.
OPERATIONS AT TEL KHUWEILFEH.
After a day's rest, the 7th Mounted Brigade started off again (on November
2nd) at 08.30. "C" Sub-section reported to the "S.N.H."; "D" Sub-section
to the "S.R.Y." The Transport ("B.1" Echelon) just arrived as the Squadron
was timed to move off, and rations had to be issued out on parade. [It may
here be mentioned that the transport had had a "rough time," and without
having accurate knowledge of what was happening to the Brigade, owing to
the many difficulties of communication _en route_, did splendidly in
arriving even when it did.]
The railway being crossed, the Brigade "carried on," along a sort of old
track north of Beersheba for about 10 miles, where a halt was called. A
short description of the country hereabouts would not, perhaps, be out of
place. Doubtless other people will read this record besides the members of
the Squadron who have seen the "beauties" of that remote part of the world;
a brief reference to the characteristics of the locality may, therefore, be
appreciated by those who would like to spend a short holiday there!
Now, the ground itself, baked hard by the tropical sun and total absence of
water, is covered with stones, it has practically no vegetation whatever,
any scrub, at all resembling a tree, being something to remark upon. Parts
of the country, however, are cultivated by the natives during the winter
and spring, but at the time of our campaign everything was quite bare.
Then, there are no roads; the tracks made by the natives are inches deep in
dust, which, when used by troops, rises in dense clouds, choking one's nose
and eyes, besides "caking" on the face, so that in a very short time every
man more resembles a performer in a minstrel troupe rather than a soldier
in His Majesty's Army. Everywhere hills are to be seen, upon which there
are outcrops of rock. Upon these hills, also, a small bushy plant manages
to grow (a kind of thyme), which has a very pungent smell.
In front of the halting place, mentioned above, was a plain about a mile
wide; on each side of this was a range of hills. The "S.R.Y." and "D"
Sub-section made towards Khuweilfeh on their left front, and the "S.N.H."
and "C" Sub-section set off half-right towards the hills. The "S.N.H." met
but slight opposition from the enemy, which they easily overcame. Pushing
forward and taking, on the way, two field-guns and two ambulances abandoned
by the Turks, they, at length, gained the highest point (Ras en Nukb); from
here could be seen the Turkish position on the other side of the plain,
being attacked by the "S.R.Y."
A DIFFICULT PROPOSITION.
It was clear that no further advance could be made until the Turks on the
left were dislodged. This seemed to be a difficult proposition, as enemy
reinforcements could be seen coming up in great numbers. Towards evening an
attempt was made to attack them on the other side, but the ground being
found to be very rocky, and after being shelled considerably and night
setting in, orders were received to withdraw. Then the "S.N.H." came right
back to the point where they had left the Brigade, and "C" Sub-section
remained with them for that night. After several attempts had been made to
bring in the captured guns, it was decided it was impossible to retain
them, so they were turned over a precipice.
The next morning (November 3rd) before daylight, the "S.N.H." and "C"
Sub-section set out again, and occupied the same position which they had
evacuated the previous night, being relieved about 10.00 by the
Australians. They had, however, to stand-by for a time, as the Turks showed
signs of attacking. On the way back to the Brigade they passed British
infantry on the way up to the attack, moving under artillery fire, which
on both sides was very lively just then.
In the meantime "D" Sub-section had been having an adventure; the following
incident being related by one who was present:--
"D'S" ADVENTURE.
"Shortly after leaving the Brigade," he writes, "we came into
action on a ridge and gave overhead fire, while the S.R.Y. attacked
the enemy position which was on another ridge about 1,800 yards
off. After a short time, in order to get closer to the enemy, we
advanced to an intervening ridge about 900 yards, bringing us this
distance from the enemy. During this advance, which was carried out
at the gallop, we were subjected to very heavy machine-gun fire,
through which we were lucky to come with the loss of only one pack
mule. The second position was a good one, and we were able to bring
very effective fire on to the enemy who were in a similar position
to ourselves, only rather higher up. Observation was very bad owing
to the hard ground.
"After being in action for a considerable time and having fired a
large quantity of ammunition, we suddenly became aware that we were
entirely "on our own," not one S.R.Y. or a man of any other unit to
be seen. Mr. Raynor went back to try to re-establish communication,
and just as it was rapidly getting dark he sent up an orderly to
tell us to come out of action, and to lead us down into a gulley
below the position we held, where he was. When we arrived at what
the guide thought was the spot, however, it was quite dark, indeed
"pitch black". He was nowhere to be found, and after sending out
scouts in all directions, and still being unable to find him in the
darkness, we took the opportunity to feed the horses. After a
short rest and being under the impression that the Brigade had
advanced (from information previously obtained) we advanced too!
After passing our former position, and descending the steep slope
beyond, we at last sighted a light, and sent out a man (Pte.
Chantry) to reconnoitre. Our surprise can be imagined, when he got
to within a hundred yards of it he was fired at. It was a party of
Turks! They immediately 'stood to' and let us have it 'hot'. We at
once galloped to cover on the left flank, but unfortunately before
we reached it Francis was hit, and we never saw the poor chap
again! The pack animal he was leading, however, came along with the
rest of the horses.
"Just after this incident a gun 'pack' (the Bint), got loose (she
was always difficult to lead), and galloped off. But she came in by
herself the next morning, followed shortly afterwards by the horse
poor Francis had been riding when he met his end. After we reached
cover, we found the 'S.R.Y.' Headquarters close by, so we reported
there, when we were told that orders had been issued for us to
re-join the Squadron. The 'O.C.' and Mr. Raynor were there also, who
told us to remain for the night, off-saddling half at a time. The
following morning we again came into action near our original
position of the previous day, but did not fire. During the morning
we were relieved by some machine guns from the Camel Corps, and
then rejoined the Brigade".
"B" SUB-SECTION'S WORK.
"B" Sub-section was early attached to the Australians and advanced, on the
right of the "S.R.Y.," on the edge of the plain. They had tough fighting
and fired a considerable quantity of ammunition. It is regretted that
information is not available, to allow of a detailed description of the
adventures of this Sub-section at Khuweilfeh, being given. It is certain,
however, that the Sub-section rendered the Australians valuable assistance,
which was greatly appreciated.
The Brigade, having been relieved by the 53rd Division[3], now commenced
the long march back to Beersheba, a distance of at least 10 miles, through
the country we have just described. This journey, and that which followed,
were the most tiring of these operations. It must be remembered that the
horses had not been watered nor the men's water-bottles filled, since the
previous morning. When the intense heat of the day is considered, not to
mention the dust, the hardships suffered can, perhaps, be imagined! The
G.O.C. (Brig.-Gen. J.T. Wigan, C.M.G., D.S.O.) went along the whole column
and handed his brandy-flask to those who seemed the most exhausted. Upon
arriving at Beersheba, the town was found to be swarming with more troops,
and it was with the greatest difficulty that any water was obtained at all.
Everyone had gone without just as long as we had done--at least, so they
said!
The next day (November 4th), was spent in watering and cleaning up. Towards
evening, "Saddle-up" was ordered; the Brigade moved at 16.00 and marched to
Karm, a distance of 15 miles--a journey which seemed interminable. The air
was so thick with dust that it was necessary to keep right on to the tail
of the horse in front, or you would have been lost in a second. "'Ware hole
on the right!" "Mind the wire!" and such like orders were passed down the
column from time to time. You had just to do what you were told, as it was
quite impossible to see even a yard ahead!
Arrived at Karm, at about 22.00, the Brigade watered their horses from the
troughs beside the railway line, which were supplied with water brought up
in trucks by train from the pipe line at Shellal or El Arish! After a short
sleep, the Brigade moved on a few miles to Goz el Geleib, and took over a
camping area from the 8th Mounted Brigade.
Our Squadron took over the identical ground just occupied by the 21st
Squadron, and the small party we sent on in advance learnt of the action
they had been in, when strongly attacked, and the praise they had earned
from the Commander-in-Chief. During this action, one of their officers
(Lieut. Stuart) who was known to some of the members of the "20th," was
captured. He was at first reported killed.
The Brigade stayed here for the day in reserve. Glad enough everyone was of
this little rest, which at any time is indeed "very little" for a cavalry
unit, even when halted. That afternoon an officer of the Squadron was
ordered to proceed to a point overlooking the Wadi Imleh and establish
signalling communication with the Australian Headquarters, and to keep
watch for any enemy movement across it. The line, in this part, was held by
small posts, in some places over a mile apart. It would seem to be an easy
matter for the Turk to creep up during the night and at daybreak pour
through the gaps. It was, indeed, at this point that the 21st Squadron had
been so hard pressed.
Nothing unusual happened on this occasion, however, and the next morning
(November 6th), the Brigade moved at 08.30 to a point north-east of Karm,
near Abu Irgeig, just behind the line. Two sub-sections were at once sent
to a line of observation overlooking Wadi Imleh. Persistent rumours of an
enemy attack from this quarter which, as has been seen, was very lightly
held, kept everyone on the alert.
"C" Sub-section watered at Karm during the day and before night the
positions were carried by the infantry and the Brigade camped near by. But
it was on the move again the next morning (November 7th) long before
daylight (at 04.30). No person in the Squadron knew what was the
destination, and when, at length, day broke, there were many speculations
even as to the locality they were then actually in.
Eventually a railway was crossed, and the country appeared just like that
north of Beersheba. It transpired, in fact, that they were only a few miles
from that town, but on a different road from that leading to Khuweilfeh.
After having covered about 8 miles since the morning, the Brigade
approached Tel-el-Sheria, where it came in sight of the railway station,
and under enemy shell-fire, which was pretty hot at times. At the station
itself the shelling was hotter still, as 5.9's were falling thick just
there. At night, however, all shelling ceased and the troops were able to
water their horses at 23.00 in the wadi, close to the station.
Meanwhile at Gaza, on the coast, the intense bombardment of the Turkish
lines that had been going on, was more than the enemy could stand, and he
began to withdraw his troops. To such an extent had the withdrawal been
carried out, that a British attack on the night of November 6th-7th met
with but slight opposition, and Outpost Hill, Middlesex Hill and Ali-Munter
were captured without much trouble. The Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade
passed right through the ruins of Gaza.
FOOTNOTES:
[3] _The enemy by this time probably thought that a wide out-flanking
movement was to be undertaken at Khuweilfeh, and accordingly hastily
brought up still more reserves. After fighting day and night against
superior numbers, the 53rd Division was, finally, able to capture the
position on November 6th. The drawing of the Turkish reserves to this
part of the line contributed to the success elsewhere._
THE BRIGADE ADVANCES.
The following day (November 8th), at 05.00, a further advance was made by
our Brigade along the railway about 9 miles, and the enemy was sighted in
the neighbourhood of Tel Hudeiwe, whom the "S.N.H." and "C" Sub-section
were sent to dislodge. This task they accomplished at once, but a sudden
counter-attack forced back our advanced points with a rush, who sustained
some casualties. The position then held was a good one, and there were
little doubts about our being able to hold it, even if outnumbered. The
ground was so steep in the rear, that led-horses could be brought up to
within 20 yards, or less, of the guns. In front, too, the ground sloped
away sharply, and on the other side of the valley was a ridge, similar to
our own, to which the Turks had withdrawn, and where they could be seen in
large numbers. They kept up a very heavy rifle and machine-gun fire, which,
however, we heartily returned. Their artillery, evidently, was being
employed elsewhere, as will be shown shortly. During the afternoon the
Turks were seen to be reinforced, and showed every sign of attempting an
attack. "B" Sub-section came up and was in action alongside "C"; "E"
Sub-section also was attached, but was held in reserve for eventualities.
It was soon seen, however, that the Turk had come to the conclusion that
"discretion was the better part of valour," for nothing further happened.
"D" SUB-SECTION'S CASUALTIES.
Meanwhile "D" Sub-section had been having a rough time. They had taken up a
position close to Brigade Headquarters with the Essex Battery, to protect
it from a flank attack. The Essex and Turkish artillery had a lively duel,
during which shells fell thick, around this quarter. Lance-Corpl. Marriott
was, unfortunately, killed, while Lieut. Raynor, Ptes. Taylor and Crane,
and, later, Lance-Corpl. Green, were wounded, in this action. It may be
mentioned here, that Lieut. Raynor was hit in the arm, and after undergoing
several operations in Nasrieh Hospital, Cairo, he was sent home and finally
retired from the Army. The manner in which he had organised "D"
Sub-section, and in a few weeks made it a fighting unit of exceptional
quality, had earned him great praise. Sergt. Fleet, who assumed command
after Lieut. Raynor was hit, did splendid work and was afterwards awarded
the Military Medal.
All was quiet during the night, and at daybreak the patrols sent out,
reported "all clear"; the Turks had "Imshied" (i.e., cleared out). After
watering, under a certain amount of shell fire, the Sub-sections that had
been in the line re-joined the Squadron; the remainder had watered late the
previous night, and were not allowed the time to water again. Then
commenced an exciting race across country towards the coast, in an
endeavour to cut off the Turkish garrison at Gaza, which was stated at this
time to be in full retreat. The Brigade advanced 16 miles that day--"Point
375," Simsin-Bureir, Huliekht, Julis--right through the ancient land of the
Philistines.
[Illustration]
[Illustration]
A different kind of country was being met with now, much of it being,
evidently, cultivated during certain times of the year. Many villages were
also passed, some of which looked quite pretty from a distance, clustering
among their cactus hedges and a few trees. But anything green would have
looked pleasant at that moment to the men who, for so long, had seen
nothing but the arid desert. It was a case, however, of "distance lending
enchantment to the view", as a close inspection proved disappointing. The
filth in which these people live must be seen to be realised. Language
fails in this case! Their houses are simply mud huts consisting, generally,
of only one room, in which the whole family live! During the day strong
healthy men sit about outside, while the women do all the work, even to the
toilsome labour of tilling the ground! A search for water in such places is
not a very hopeful matter; at the most there might be two wells, from which
water could be got up, _a bucketful at a time_--a hopeless look out, when
there are thousands of thirsty men and horses! Nothing was seen of the
enemy that day, and when the sea came in view (what a splendid sight!), it
was evident the Gaza forces had escaped.
What an enormous amount of ammunition and stores they had left behind! It
has been stated, unofficially, it would have been enough to last them 12
months! Evidently, the enemy did not expect to leave in such a hurry.
That night the Brigade bivouacked at Julis, and the next morning (November
10th), in attempting to water "B" Sub-section was shelled out of Es Suafir
el Gharbiye. The Squadron then returned to Julis, and was ordered to
off-saddle and look for water at one of the villages near the coast.
Eventually they found a moderate supply at Hamame, 3-1/2 miles away,
together with--quite unexpectedly--oranges. To say that these were
appreciated is hardly adequate, it can well be imagined that they _were_ a
luxury just then!
Having returned to camp, Capt. Davies and Lieut. Price excited the envy of
the other officers. They had been to El-Mejdel, a few miles south of
Hamame, which turned out to be quite civilised compared with the
surrounding villages, and they had bought some tobacco and, actually, had
had a cup of coffee!
A REST AT HAMAME.
An hour or two afterwards we had great news! The Brigade was to go to
Hamame for a rest and clean up, and perhaps a swim in the sea! After our
experiences it would certainly be difficult to think of anything that could
be more appreciated, unless it were a square meal; but then, there were
oranges to be had, to make up for shortcomings in that respect.
Only 11 days since leaving Esani, yet how much had been crowded into that
short period! As much work had been done every day as was usually done in a
week. It was not the fatigue of the trekking and fighting that "told" so
much, but the lack of adequate rest; generally "turning-in" very late at
night, and often having to sleep in boots ready to move before daylight the
following morning, with nothing but "bully beef," biscuits, and (a very
little) jam to eat. Sometimes tea was available, but frequently without
sugar or milk. As regards "bully beef," this may be very sustaining, but it
is a fact difficult to believe when having nothing else to eat for weeks on
end. The look of it was enough to make one sick! Of course, in the
circumstances, no other rations were possible, and the Supply Department
certainly did wonders to keep units supplied with _any_ kind of food, when
they did not know, from one hour to another, where they would be located
next, without taking into consideration the distances that had to be
covered over roads hardly worthy to be called tracks.
Two days were spent at Hamame, and how glorious they were! The Squadron
rode down "bare-back" to the beach each day (two miles away) and bathed,
the horses going into the sea as well. They were watered from wells just
dug by the Field Troop (R.E.). It is a curious fact that all along this
coast one has only to dig down in the sand a few feet, and there an
inexhaustible supply of fresh water is to be found. It only remains to put
up canvas troughs and hand pumps, and any number of horses can be watered,
as easily as if they were in the best watered country in the world. It is
unfortunate that this is not possible away from the coast.
AT JUNCTION STATION.
At 04.30 on the morning of November 13th, the Brigade moved from its
comfortable quarters at Hamame, nearly due east to Beit Affe, and then
beyond Summeil, where a line was taken over which had been previously held
by another Brigade. On the way the Turks shelled us heavily. It is
surprising how difficult it is to hit a Brigade on the move, in "Line of
Troop Column"; shells often fell right in the centre of a Regiment, yet not
actually hitting a troop or doing any damage whatever! At night we withdrew
from the line, marched on to Tel-et-Turmus, north-west, and slept there in
a deep wadi. The next day at 05.30 we were "on the move" again and pushed
on to El Tine crossing the railway. It was evident, from the amount of kit,
dead animals, etc., on the road, that "Johnny Turk" had not been _dawdling_
by the way!
From El Tine we went to Kezaze and thence to Junction Station where our
eyes were gladdened by the sight of a BRICK BUILDING. On reaching the crest
of the ridge the railway leading to Jerusalem suddenly came into view, and,
parallel with it, was seen the main road to that town. Visible for several
miles until lost to sight in the distant hills, it was crowded with
retreating Turks who had been thoroughly surprised at our sudden
appearance. The station appeared to be in flames, but the Turk was still
"showing fight," and in a short time "C" Sub-section attached to the
"S.R.Y." was in action on the ridge south of the railway against the enemy,
who had a position on a hill the other side of it. In about a quarter of
an hour, however, the Turk was seen retiring, and the Sub-section came out
of action and advanced across the railway line to "let him have it" again,
in his new position in front of the village of Khulde. Evening was drawing
near, when orders were received to withdraw to the original position for
the night, and close by there, the Squadron settled down. Before that,
however, they had gone to the station to water, but the supply quickly gave
out and they had to return. Towards midnight, a fresh source having been
tapped, they turned out to water again, none having been had the day
before: _they had been 57 hours without water!_
The next day no serious advance was made, but the day following, after
being shelled before starting, the Brigade crossed the railway and went
through Khulde, which had been evacuated. They were heavily shelled and
unable to proceed, as they found the enemy firmly entrenched in the hills.
"D" Sub-section got some targets at Latron.[4] They returned to their old
camp; water by this time had been developed and was no difficulty. The
infantry too had arrived.
Nothing was done the next day, and everyone was glad of the rest.
Sec.-Lieut. Kindell having contracted dysentery, was sent to hospital. It
was now November 17th, and the Squadron had become seriously reduced in
strength. More men had been lost than horses, and men leading three animals
each accompanied the transport. Two officers and 50 men had been killed,
wounded, or evacuated sick (more than a quarter of the whole Squadron),
whereas only 15 animals had been lost. This left 35 riding horses
_surplus_, men to lead which had to be found. It should be remembered that
losses in a machine gun unit are much more serious than in a regiment. The
teams for the guns have to be maintained, and when these are reduced in
strength an enormous amount of extra work falls on those who remain.
At 05.30 on November 18th the Brigade went to Khurbet Deiran, 6 miles
north-west, arriving the same morning.
FOOTNOTES:
[4] _At Latron was a castle of the Knights of St. John. It was
destroyed by Saladin in A.D. 1191._
THE JEWISH COLONIES OF PALESTINE.
The first sight of really civilised country was obtained at this period. On
the way, the cultivated areas round Ramleh[5] were visible as far as the
eye could reach. This was indeed a very pleasant change from the barren
and uncultivated tracts--the interminable stretches of rocky and
boulder-strewn ground, intersected by apparently unbounded areas of flat,
dust-covered wastes:--
"Dust in heaps and dust in piles, dust in shifting ridges;
Dust and dust for miles and miles, and what 'aint dust is midges".
So quoth the cynic; and the peculiar part about it is that, wherever are
large stretches of dusty ground, so also _there is the wind!_ and nothing
need be said of the result of a combat between these two forces.
[Illustration]
All thoughts of the country left behind, however, were immediately banished
from the mind at the sight of that which lay before us, and anticipation
ran high in the belief that these were the wonderful orange-groves which,
one had heard, were supposed to be situated in this part of Palestine.
Expectations were realised, and on nearing Deiran, orchard upon orchard
were passed with trees bending under the weight of hundreds of large and
delicious Jaffa oranges! Everyone purchased as many as it was possible to
carry, and those who had no available cash, managed to satisfy their wants
by means of barter--incidentally, be it whispered, many an odd tin of
"bully" found its way into the local inhabitants' larders.
Practically the whole of this part of Palestine, reaching from Deiran to
several miles north of Jaffa, is split up into a number of Jewish Colonies,
settlers under the Zionist movement, and they form the nucleus of the
renascent Jewish nation. Deiran was found to be a well-laid-out village
composed of substantially-built houses of white stone, with red-tiled
roofs, "up-to-date" furniture, and with nice white lace curtains at the
windows. One could almost delude himself into the belief that he was home
again. And the delusion almost became a reality as one caught sight of
pretty young girls dressed in quite smart European frocks, standing in the
doorways with welcoming smiles, and motherly old ladies beaming with
pleasure, who handed large bunches of luscious grapes to the men as they
rode by. It must be remembered that it was only two days since that the
Turks had been somewhat hurriedly ejected from this place. The great
pleasure that these hard-working people experienced could be quite
understood when some of the barbarous acts of the Turks are brought to
mind, they being too well known to be dwelt upon here. Afterwards it was
learned from the inhabitants, that many and great were the impositions
placed upon them; the Turk simply took what he wanted, and should he happen
to take a dislike to anyone, the latter was in danger of having all his
property confiscated, without any explanation whatever being given.
The day after the Brigade arrived at Deiran they moved via Naane[6] and
Annabe to between Harmash and Nalin, 14 miles north-east. Here they stayed
three days, watering twice daily, at Hadithe, about 3 miles east-north-east
of Ludd. About this time the weather broke and heavy rain set in. This
downpour, accompanied as it was by a considerable fall in the temperature,
was a severe trial for troops attired in summer clothing who, until a few
hours previously, had been suffering from excessive heat!
At 09.00 on November 23rd they went through Ludd about 16 miles south-east
to Zernuka. The 24th was spent there, and on the 25th they moved in the
afternoon to Rishon-le-Zion (Ayun Kara), 6 miles due north, in reserve to
the Anzacs, as the enemy was becoming active in this quarter. They stayed
here the following day, and men were allowed to go into the town.
Rishon-le-Zion is a pretty little place, and another example of the Zionist
movement. Here are large wine distilleries, and very good wine they make
too! Before the War large quantities were regularly sent to England.
The next morning (November 27th), the Brigade returned to Zernuka (close to
Akir[7]). They arrived about midday and watered. Late in the afternoon
Lieut. Oakley arrived, bringing 40 remounts and reinforcements for the
Brigade (none for this Squadron unfortunately); he had ridden the 70 miles
from Belah in 30 hours, and had, in fact, only left Cairo at 18.15 on the
24th.
FOOTNOTES:
[5] _Ramleh was a city of the Crusaders, and suffered in the wars
between the Franks and Saladin. During the French invasion Napoleon
made this town his headquarters._
[6] _Naane; Naamah, see Joshua xv, 41._
[7] _Akir = Ekron, see Joshua xv, 11, 45, xix, 43; I Sam. vi; III Kings
i; Jer. xxv, 20; Amos i, 8; Zeph. ii, 4; Zech. iv, 5._
THE BEIT UR ET TAHTA OPERATIONS.
The British line had been advanced and now extended from the River Auja
north of Jaffa on the coast, south-east to a few miles north-east of
Jerusalem and thence due south. The Turk at this time, although greatly
demoralised, was making some desperate counter-attacks.
At 17.00 on November 27th, orders were received for a move that night at
21.00. The Brigade was required, in a great hurry, to fill a gap in the
line that the Turks had discovered, and of which they appeared to intend to
take advantage.
Of the Machine-Gun Squadron, only Headquarters and three sub-sections ("A"
"D" and "E") were to go, but were made up to working strength by men from
"B" and "C" Sub-sections. The Officer Commanding, Capt. Marshall, was
there, and the "second in command," Capt. Davies. Lieut. Price, M.C., still
commanded "E," but Lieut. Cazalet being sick, Lieut. Hibbert took his place
in command of "A". "D" Sub-section was under Sergt. Fleet, who had just
been notified that he had been awarded the Military Medal for his splendid
work at Hudeiwe and elsewhere.
The forced march to Tahta (a distance of 22 miles), all through the night,
after the previous operations, was "killing". The horses, however, stood
the fast going over rocky ground remarkably well, and a part of the
distance was even covered at the canter! A faint glimmer of dawn was just
visible over the tops of the surrounding hills when the Brigade, on the
morning of the 28th November, arrived, tired, dusty and dishevelled, in the
vicinity of Beit ur et Tahta, a desolate native village, about 12 miles
north-west of Jerusalem and situated at the end of a wadi along the centre
of which ran the road leading from Jimzu.[8]
FOOTNOTES:
[8] _Jimzu = Gimzo, see II Chron. xxviii, 18._
A TURKISH SURPRISE ATTACK.
Immediately upon arrival the horses were off-saddled and fed, the "dixies"
were unearthed from off the pack-saddles and everything pointed to an early
mug of tea and a much-needed rest. Unfortunately, the fates decreed
otherwise, for just as the water was "on the boil" a terrific fusillade of
rifle-fire broke out, seemingly from all sides. Previously to this, there
had been intermittent shelling just to the north of the village, and on the
commencement of the rifle-fire this increased in intensity until things
began to look extremely awkward. A quick glance up at the hills surrounding
the wadi gave no indication as to the source from which the firing
emanated, until, a few minutes later, when several men were seen "doubling
back" down the slope of the hill on the western side of the wadi. These
men were afterwards found to be those holding the outposts in that
particular point of the line. They came with the ominous news that the
outposts were driven in and the Turks were upon us! Almost at once this was
seen to be the case, as the enemy reached the top of the ridge and his fire
began to take its toll of men and animals.
To gain a proper appreciation of the serious predicament in which the
Brigade was placed at this moment, it will be necessary to understand the
nature of the ground thereabouts. On both sides of the wadi were high
banks, or hills, 60 to 80 feet high, the surface of these being strewn with
large rocks and boulders. The wadi itself was about 20 yards wide with the
road winding its tortuous way down the centre between rocks and boulders
worn smooth by the passage of water which, ages ago, had run its course
from the hills. Packed in this wadi was the Brigade, absolutely at the
mercy of the withering fire of the enemy, almost from overhead.
Immediately everything became an orderly bustle and excitement. Squadrons
of the two Yeomanry regiments were dispatched to take up defensive
positions. The Officer Commanding ordered "E" Sub-section to come into
action on the side of the hill, about 400 yards away to the left, against
a Mosque which was strongly held, and whence most of the fire appeared to
be coming. They "man-handled" their guns and took up good positions, the
rocks affording them a certain amount of cover. The gun-teams at that time
consisted of four men each, who were naturally rather exhausted after the
"trek" and rush-into-action, carrying the guns.
These teams were composed as follows:--
Lance-Corpl. Grice Lance-Corpl. Thompson.
Pte. Willmore Pte. Duncan
" Crossman " Joiner
" Goldie " Roberts.
They opened fire upon the Mosque at a range of 700 yards with good effect,
silencing two enemy machine-guns.
After being in action about half-an-hour the "S.R.Y." sent to Lieut. Price
to deal with a party of Turks who were bringing fire to bear on their rear.
The Turks were found to be in a trench with a machine-gun. Fire was opened
on them, and all were killed except one man who escaped, mounted. Attention
was then directed to the Mosque, where the Turks were still causing some
trouble. "Covering-fire" was given to the "S.R.Y." who attacked, but
without entire success and had to withdraw. In the end the Turk was
ejected, however, and he was not able again to occupy it.
During the day's fighting Pte. Crossman had been wounded.
DEATH OF LIEUT. PRICE, M.C.
At night both guns were placed about 50 yards apart, facing up the hill.
Working hard during the night, the enemy built a breastwork on the top of
the hill, and the flash of their machine-gun fire could be seen directed
from that position across the front of the Mosque, apparently to prevent it
being occupied. About midnight Lieut. Price was walking along the line
having a look-out and had just passed his right-hand gun when he was
unfortunately hit by a bullet in the groin. Lance-Corpl. Grice at once had
him bandaged up and carried down to the dressing station by Ptes. Baker and
Roberts. To the sorrow of all his comrades, however, he died in the Field
Ambulance. He was taken to Ramleh, where he was buried.
Just after Lieut. Price was hit, Sergt. Hawkins, who had only arrived a few
days previously, but rendered splendid service on this his first day's
fighting, was wounded (he was afterwards awarded the Military Medal) and
Corpl. Franklin then came up to take charge. He reported the casualties to
Squadron Headquarters when S.S.M. Larwood came up and "took over," sending
him to resume charge of the led horses.
In the morning, before daylight, the guns were moved further up the hill in
line with the infantry (Scottish Rifles), who had arrived the previous
evening and advanced after dark. It was during this morning's operations
that Pte. Cowley was unfortunately wounded. The Turkish defenders of the
breastwork, after being submitted to heavy fire, came in under a German
N.C.O. and surrendered, upon which the infantry went up and occupied their
late position. The infantry soon had to fall back again, however, owing to
heavy shell fire, when the Turks re-occupied it. During the day there was a
certain amount of bombing and sniping on both sides, during which Pte.
Joiner was killed. He had been trying to account for the sniper himself,
and upon being ordered to go down the hill to see about the rations for his
sub-section he was hit as soon as he moved.
After dark our infantry once more attacked the position, but were again
unsuccessful. At about 01.00 infantry machine-gunners came up to relieve,
being shown the way by Corpl. Franklin. The guns had to be carried down to
the led horses, as firing was still pretty hot; the ground, besides, was so
rough that it was impossible even to lead the pack animals over it. Just
before coming out of action S.S.M. Larwood and Pte. Goldie were both
unfortunately wounded, the latter so seriously that he passed away six days
later and was buried at Junction Station.
"A" SUB-SECTION IN ACTION.
In the meantime the other Sub-sections had been "doing things" too. For
example, as soon as the enemy opened fire, "A" Sub-section was detailed to
join the "S.N.H." and moved over to the western side of the wadi, under
cover of the hill, where this regiment was situated; orders were received
to mount the guns on the top of this hill. After a difficult passage, under
a heavy fire, to the position indicated, the guns were brought into action
and opened fire immediately.
It was not even necessary to adjust sights, as the enemy were within
"point-blank" range. Enfilading the enemy these guns were raking his flank
with fire, whilst he was preparing to make a final rush down into the wadi.
Had not this move been circumvented in the "nick of time," it is
impossible to estimate the disastrous consequences which would have ensued.
Almost at once, the deadly fire of the two machine-guns began to tell their
tale, and odd Turks here and there suddenly remembered "a very urgent
appointment". Within an hour the top of this hill was cleared, and the
enemy were seen to be concentrating on the further ridge. From this
vantage-point he kept up a brisk fire, both with machine-guns and rifles,
and it was an extremely risky undertaking to show one's head above the
particular rock behind which one was taking cover. Their fire, however, was
returned with interest, and it helped to make "Johnny" arrive at the
decision that it would be a very unwise thing to attack again that day,
although he _did_ once make a half-hearted attempt to regain his former
position, which was promptly frustrated.
This state of things continued throughout the day, but the exposed position
of these two guns began to make itself very evident, as the enemy's field
guns, firing from the right flank, began to get the "hang of things" there.
It was, indeed, only by a miracle that both gun-teams were not entirely
wiped out! Night fell with the position of affairs pretty much the same,
but, later on, a welcome respite was afforded by the cessation of the
shell-fire, although machine-gun and rifle fire still continued, and if
anything, with greater intensity.
At about midnight, a tremendous "strafe" commenced a little to the left,
bombs and flares were freely used, and although no attempt was made to
force the position, everything was in readiness, should the Turk have
decided to do so. Our left-hand gun had been moved forward to command the
approach to the ridge from which the Turks were driven earlier in the day.
At daybreak enemy shells again commenced to fall, and it soon became quite
apparent that no rest would be obtained that day. The enemy's artillery
left little to be desired from his point of view, as regards accuracy of
range, although considering the amount of shells expended our casualties
were comparatively slight.
At about 2 o'clock in the afternoon, figures were observed to be moving on
the top of a hill about 500 yards away on our left; they seemed to be
making towards a mosque, situated at the end of the ridge. Our two machine
guns were immediately turned upon them, when the whole of the hill-side
suddenly became _alive_ with Turks, who, scared out of their cover, fled
to the further side of the ridge. A trench-mortar battery, which had come
up during the previous night, and had taken up a position about a quarter
of a mile in the rear, opened fire at once; it is feared that "Johnny" then
had a very rough and uncomfortable 10 minutes. Chase was given by some
troops in the vicinity, with the result that practically the whole of these
enemy forces were either killed or taken prisoner. This little
_contretemps_ stirred up the wrath of "our friend the enemy" somewhat, and
he strafed us continually until nightfall. At 10 o'clock, word was received
that the Brigade was to be relieved, the situation now being considered
well in hand; accordingly, about an hour later, a Lewis gun detachment of
the Scottish Rifles took over our position, and the Sub-section then
withdrew.
Meanwhile, "D" Sub-section had been strenuously engaged, and held back the
enemy on their part of the line. Full advantage was taken of every target
that presented itself, and heavy losses were inflicted upon the Turk.
OUR LED-HORSES AT TAHTA.
When we first arrived at Tahta, as soon as fire was opened on us, the
led-horses were saddled as quickly as possible and sent back under
Sub-section Corporals to cover. They had moved off only 20 yards, when
Lance-Corpl. Carr was killed. He was buried by Corpl. Rose and Pte. Wick
that day, close to where the Brigade-Major was buried, a cross being,
temporarily, put up to mark his grave.
The disposal of the led-horses presented a serious difficulty from the
outset; their numbers were being fast reduced by casualties, and something
had to be done to save them. It was impossible, obviously, to withdraw them
the same way as they had been brought, the Turk having got astride of the
road about half a mile below. Ultimately it was decided "to make a dash for
it," and to take the horses right over the hill on the eastern side of the
wadi, although while this was being done, they would be exposed even more
than ever to the enemy's fire. This dangerous undertaking was, however,
eventually successfully accomplished. The wadi was now, more or less, clear
of men and animals, although the place was littered with killed and
wounded. Here and there were to be seen animals with limbs broken,
struggling to follow in the wake of their companions.
In their new position the led-horses, although rather more comfortable,
were not, by any means, safe. All the "packs" and officers' horses were
kept here, but the remainder, including all the horses of the regiments,
were taken right back to Zernuka, or rather Akir, to which place the
remainder of the Squadron left behind had moved.
At daybreak the next morning, when the enemy's artillery opened fire, the
"packs" received a very severe shaking, and during the morning several of
the mules were hit by shell splinters. Pte. Heathcote was killed by a shell
at 10.30 whilst attending one of the wounded mules here; Pte. Rush was hit
in the shoulder, an hour afterwards, and was taken to the Field Ambulance.
A SAD CEREMONY.
Upon the second (and last) night at Tahta, a very pathetic, but stirring,
burial-ceremony was held at about 21.00, which those privileged to attend
will remember to the end of their days. The ground selected for the burials
was a little gully running off the main wadi. Dead animals, horses, mules
and camels lay all around; upturned wagons and limbers were to be seen
everywhere. During the deep roar and vivid flashes of our guns, just to the
rear, and the sharp crack of bullets striking the rocks just above, the
solemn and earnest words of our Chaplain could be heard. Above all, the
full moon, bathing the gully in a bright light, combined to make a fitting
background for the laying-to-rest of those who had been called upon to make
the "supreme sacrifice".
On leaving Tahta the Squadron marched on foot to the vicinity of El Burj
(guns on packs), arriving before daylight (November 30th). Here they stayed
for the day, in reserve, cleaning guns, etc. At 18.00, that night, they
moved nearer El Burj in support of the Australians, arriving about 21.00.
Nothing happened; but the Squadron stayed all night and the next day. That
night they moved into El Burj; next morning (December 2nd) they returned,
and found their horses awaiting them. Headquarters, "A," "D" and "E"
Sub-sections now re-joined "B" and "C" Sub-sections and transport. It was
not likely that the Squadron would be required again in the Tahta district,
except in an emergency, as the country was quite unsuitable for cavalry
tactics; as it turned out, they were not destined to do any more fighting
for a long time to come.
But the British advance had by no means been stopped, in spite of the check
in the hills. The absence of roads and shortage of water here, made
operations exceedingly difficult, and it was decided to attack the Turkish
positions covering Jerusalem, from the south-west and west, instead of from
the north-west. The troops were moved into position, and the main attack
was launched at dawn on December 8th. This attack was immediately
successful and resulted in the surrender of Jerusalem by the Turks to the
60TH DIVISION on the morning of Sunday, December 9th. Thus, after four
centuries of conquest, the Turk was ridding the land of his presence in the
bitterness of defeat. _On this same day_, 2082 years before, another race
of conquerors, equally detested, were looking their last on the city which
they could not hold, and, inasmuch as the liberation of Jerusalem in 1917
will probably ameliorate the lot of the Jews more than that of any other
community in Palestine, it was fitting that the flight of the Turks should
have coincided with the national festival of the Hanukah, which
commemorates the re-capture of the Temple from the heathen Seleucids by
Judas Maccabæus in 165 B.C.
PART III.
AFTER JERUSALEM--A REST!
During the last-mentioned operations, the Squadron had lost three officers
and 67 men (out of the total of seven officers and 182 men, with which it
started from Amr), and had only received one officer and three men as
reinforcements. The losses in animals were: 50 riding horses, 15 draught
and pack animals and one donkey. Of these animals, 25 had been killed at
Tahta alone, and, considering that the Squadron had covered nearly 300
miles in five weeks, the losses due to fatigue, etc., were remarkably
small. It was now necessary that the Squadron be re-equipped and
re-organised, but reinforcements and remounts had first to be obtained,
when training could be re-commenced. At length on December 5th Sergt.
Knowles and Sergt. Lewis, with 10 reinforcements, arrived from the base;
Sergt. Knowles being posted to "D" Sub-section and Sergt. Lewis to "E".
Both these Sergeants did excellent work. Unfortunately, Sergt. Lewis went
to hospital shortly after he arrived, and was not able to return for a long
time; owing to ill-health and bad luck, neither of them was able to go into
action with the sub-sections they did so much towards making efficient. A
fortnight was spent at Akir in complete rest, after which the Brigade
moved, via El Mughar and Beshshit, to the sand hills north-east of Esdud
and about 1-1/2 miles from the coast.
"RE-GROUPING" AT ESDUD.[9]
Conditions were not too pleasant here, but they might, perhaps, have been a
great deal worse! The weather was very wet and cold and the sudden change
from summer to winter was trying, even for the strongest constitutions.
Being upon sand, the camp and district was certainly free from mud, but in
order to water the horses a great sea of mud had to be gone through twice a
day in order to reach the troughs that were erected at the Wadi Sukereir,
two miles away. Warm clothing was issued out to all, and when fresh meat
came up from the base, the members of the Squadron felt that they were
enjoying luxury indeed!
December 21st brought a draft of 18 good fellows; the N.C.O.'s included
Lance-Corpls. Gage, Laycock, Peach, Prior and Salter.
December 22nd saw the return of six old members of the Squadron who had
gone to hospital during the last days of the "stunt," including Corpl.
Franklin; he, however, had only been away a fortnight. Lieut. Millman and
the personnel of "F" Section who went to Gamli from Amr, and afterwards to
Belah, re-joined the Squadron at Esdud.
The Officer Commanding now grouped the Sub-sections together to form three
sections. "No. 1" Section (consisting of "A" and "C" Sub-sections), under
Lieut. Cazalet and Lieut. Oakley; "No. 2" Section ("B" and "D"
Sub-sections) under Lieut. Hibbert and Sec.-Lieut. Kindell (now returned
from hospital); "No. 3" Section ("E" and "F" Sub-sections) under Lieut.
Millman ("F" Sub-section was still without horses). Sergt. Fleet, M.M., of
"D" Sub-section had been promoted S.S.M., after S.S.M. Larwood had been
wounded. Sergt. Knowles took his place in "D" on arrival. Reinforcements,
and the Belah party, brought the five Sub-sections up to a reasonable
strength: such was the position of affairs when Xmas drew near.
FOOTNOTES:
[9] _Esdud = Ashdod of the Bible, one of the Philistine cities: See
Joshua xiii, 3; I Samuel v; II Chron. xxvi, 6; Isaiah xx, 1; Neh. xiii,
23; Jeremiah xxv, 20; Amos i, 8, iii, 9; Zeph. ii, 4; Zech. ix, 6. In
New Testament called Azotus, Acts viii, 40._
A "MERRY" XMAS, 1917.
Everyone had been hoping to have _a real good time_ this Christmas, to make
up for the hardships endured through the "stunt". Puddings, beer and other
good things, it was known, were on the way up, but, owing to difficulties
with the bridge over the Wadi Ghuzze which interrupted railway traffic,
when the day arrived, nothing had reached camp! The "goods" eventually
turned up in time for the New Year but, there being a not very large
percentage of Scotsmen in the Squadron, this did not make up for the
disappointment at Xmas. Further, the weather on the day itself was
certainly about the worst of the whole winter; blowing hard and raining
incessantly, it was scarcely with a feeling of contentment that the men
"turned in" that night--all doubtless thinking of brighter surroundings in
the old country!
A BAD START IN 1918--BETTER TIMES FOLLOW!
The first thing to happen in 1918 was a _MOVE_ to Belah; nights being spent
at Medjel and Gaza on the way. The animals in the Brigade had not yet
recovered from their previous exertions, and many a horse, unable to go
further, had unfortunately to be led away and shot. Crossing the railway at
Belah and turning to the west towards the fresh-water lake, the Brigade
went round the north-end of the latter, right on to the low cliffs at the
sea-shore, where the camp was to be located. There seemed to be promise of
better times here than had been experienced at Esdud. The water for the
horses was fairly close at hand _and there was no mud_.
The Brigade being now south of the bridge over the Wadi Ghuzze, rations
were also likely to be better and the mail more regular; there was, in
addition, a _CANTEEN_ at Belah!
Many changes in personnel took place about this time. Before leaving Esdud
S.Q.M.S. Harrison, Corpl. Barrett, Lance-Corpl. Blenkin, Ptes. Dransfield,
F.W. Harrison, Ellams and Hadden left to become cadets in the R.A.F. Sergt.
Fisher was promoted S.Q.M.S. Capt. Spencer, M.C., had arrived, being posted
as second in command, but was reposted a few days later, to the same
position which he had previously held in the 18th Squadron. Capt. L.F. St.
John Davies, M.C., arrived from the 21st Squadron the day Capt. Spencer
left, and became second in command. Lieut. G.M. King was posted from the
17th Squadron (January 8th), and Sec.-Lieut. J.K.W. Arden arrived from the
base (January 19th); Sec.-Lieut. Kindell was admitted to hospital again,
but he returned within a few weeks.
Reinforcements continued to arrive, consisting of both old and new faces:
January 6th, Lance.-Corpl. Keatley and six men; January 7th, Lance.-Corpl.
G. Neal and 11 men; January 17th, Lance.-Corpl. Smith and 15 men; January
23rd, Saddler Hayward and eight men. Sec.-Lieut. Arden formed "F"
Sub-section; remounts being now available. The Squadron thus became
complete, having six Sub-sections. The training commenced, mounted drill,
elementary gun drill, mechanism, "I.A.", special classes for range-finding,
signalling, also lectures. N.C.O.'s were instructed in indirect fire.
Lieut. Hibbert left for leave in the United Kingdom on February 10th, and
Lieut. King took his place in "B" Sub-section, and O.C. "No. 2" Section.
[Illustration]
On February 18th, Capt. D. Marshall, M.C., proceeded on leave to the United
Kingdom, and Capt. L.F. St. John Davies, M.C., became O.C., with Lieut.
Oakley second in command. On returning to the E.E.F. Capt. Marshall was
posted to the 17th Squadron. On February 22nd the Brigade moved north to
Gaza,[10] or rather to about 1-1/2 miles south of it. Here there was a
fair amount of grazing, and the animals were taken out every day for that
purpose. They had been very slow in picking up condition, and it was hoped
that this would do the necessary, as indeed it did.
The camp was arranged in the form of a square, a favourite formation with
the Squadron, and a safe one during air raids. Water was a mile away in the
Wadi Ghuzze, and rations were drawn from Gaza. On February 25th, Lieut.
Oakley went to hospital; Lieut. King became second in command. On February
26th, Lieut. R.H. Fairbairns, M.C., arrived, and was posted to "No. 1"
Section, taking command of "C" Sub-section. Training continued as at Belah,
and on February 28th there was a Divisional Field Day--"crossing the Wadi
Ghuzze," in which the 20th and 21st Squadrons were combined under Capt.
R.O. Hutchinson, M.C., of the 21st.
On March 4th another Divisional Scheme took place on the hills south-east
of the camp, the object being to intercept and defeat an imaginary enemy
(represented in skeleton), advancing from Tel el Jemmi. This manoeuvre was
satisfactorily performed.
On the 7th a pleasant diversion was made by a race meeting held by our
neighbours, the 22nd Mounted Brigade. They had taken great trouble in
preparing the course for both steeplechases and flat races, and on the day,
a scene was presented very similar to a meeting at home, except for the
absence of the ladies. On March 13th, Sec.-Lieut. J.W. Cummer arrived, and
was posted to "C" Sub-section, Lieut. R.H. Fairbairns, M.C., being now
second in command of the Squadron--a post which he held without
interruption until he became Officer Commanding. On March 22nd, Sergt.
Wright, who had been with the Squadron since its formation, left for an
infantry cadet course at Zeitoun.
FOOTNOTES:
[10] _Gaza, see Judges xvi and l, 18; Genesis x, 19; Deut. ii, 23; Jer.
xxv, 20, xlvii, 1, 5; Josh. xi, 22, xv, 47; I Kings iv, 24 (Azzah);
Amos i, 7; Jeph. ii, 4; Zech. ix, 5; Acts viii, 26._
INSPECTION BY H.R.H. THE DUKE OF CONNAUGHT.
News was at this time received that H.R.H. The Duke of Connaught would
shortly inspect our Brigade, which was now commanded by Brig.-Gen. G.V.
Clarke, D.S.O. Several preliminary parades were, therefore, held, the
inspection ultimately taking place on March 15th. After the march-past the
Brigade was formed into a Square and H.R.H. expressed his high satisfaction
with its appearance, and congratulated all ranks on their work of the
previous year. After this speech he decorated the officers, N.C.O.'s and
men, who had won distinction during the operations.
[Illustration: At Belah.
Officers, Warrant Officer and Sergeants.]
The 7th Brigade races were held on the 21st, and provided a good day's
sport, but the engagement was rather spoiled by an almost continuous
downpour of rain. Towards the end of March the "O.C." stated that he would
shortly hold two test "turn-outs". At last, one morning, sub-sections were
suddenly ordered to parade at once, in _marching order_ by the troughs at
the Wadi Ghuzze a mile away. "D" Sub-section was the first to arrive there,
and the whole Squadron was at the rendezvous _within 55 minutes_--a most
creditable performance!
The next "turn-out" was a practice "Air alarm". Ten guns were mounted
outside the camp itself, all men took cover and the line-guards tripled in
1 minute 50 seconds!
A pleasant day's sport was provided by a friendly competition between the
Squadron and the Field Ambulance--races, mounted sports, jumping, driving,
etc.--and our Squadron proved successful in most of the events.
On April 1st, orders were received that the Brigade would move, the next
day, back to the area previously occupied at Belah! They duly arrived, and
the Machine-Gun Squadron took over identically the same camp as before,
except that the "lines" were 100 yards further south. A few days after
arriving here, rumours got around that several units _were to be
dismounted_! Up till this time it was thought that this was the last thing
that was likely to happen after their success in the last operations, and
the knowledge of the country and open warfare that the troops had thereby
gained. Unfortunately, the rumour proved to be only too true, and _two
regiments in each Brigade_ were ordered to hand over their horses and
proceed to the base. Here they underwent a course of training for the
Machine-Gun Corps, after which they embarked for France, formed into
Machine-Gun Battalions. The 7th Brigade having only two regiments, lost
only one--the South Notts Hussars, that being the junior. At least two
"graves" may be seen at Belah, each bearing an inscription headed by
"R.I.P." and a broken spur! Also an "IN MEMORIAM" to the lost horses of the
South Notts Hussars and the Warwick Yeomanry! The mock-ceremonies, however,
were carried out _in all sincerity_, as, who was there who did not feel
that he had lost a true friend, in being parted from his horse?
On April 7th, the 20th Squadron lent its horses to the Warwick Yeomanry to
take them to the station, and on the 8th, to the "S.N.H." for the same
purpose. Ill-luck, however, attended these regiments. After going through
their course of training they embarked at Alexandria, but they were no
sooner out at sea than their vessel was torpedoed and sunk! Many lives were
lost, including Lieut. Morris, who will be remembered by all for his
activities in the theatrical line, as, under his able direction, the
"S.N.H. AND THE 20TH COMBINED CONCERT PARTY" provided us with a very
excellent performance at Gaza.
Shortly after the departure of the "S.N.H.", the "S.R.Y." were called upon
to assist in an attack on the other side of the Jordan. This operation was
pushed right into the enemy country, past Es Salt, which is the most
difficult ground imaginable for cavalry, but, circumstances developing in
an unexpected manner, a withdrawal had to be made. This movement was
accomplished in a truly splendid fashion. The affair, however, was not
carried out without casualties, unfortunately, and the "S.R.Y." had to
mourn the loss of Capt. Layton, one of its most prominent Squadron leaders.
ARRIVAL OF INDIAN TROOPS.
The absence of the "S.R.Y." left the 7th Mounted Brigade with only the
B.H.Q. 20th M.G. Squadron, Essex Battery, Cav. F.A. and M.V.S. But it soon
became known that Indian Cavalry Regiments had arrived from France, and
were to take the place of the regiments that had been dismounted for the
M.G.C., and also to increase the number of cavalry in the country. An
advance-party at length arrived in the Brigade, consisting of an officer
from each regiment that was to join it, and these proved to be the "20th
Deccan Horse" and "34th Poona Horse". Soon afterwards the regiments
themselves arrived by train, with their horses. How these regiments would
settle down in this country after their experience in France was at first a
subject of interest to the Squadron. But the surroundings resembled, in
some respects, their native India, and they were soon "at home". They only
needed to forget the cramped warfare of the trenches in France and to
practise real cavalry tactics again, to become a true part of the "E.E.F.".
It was also evident, from the brightness of their steelwork, that they
would be second to none in any _ceremonial_ parade.
Training continued, and the Squadron was getting very efficient, both in
the technical and tactical handling of guns. Barrage-drill (the latest
introduction from Grantham), was practised, and an exhibition barrage,
fired out to sea, proved very instructive. On April 18th, there was an
"Action" competition for sub-sections under their respective Sergeants.
They came into action at the gallop on targets at 400 yards range. "B"
Sub-section was judged "best" with "A" Sub-section second.
Summer was rapidly approaching, and on May 15th "Reveille" had been altered
to 04.45 to allow of the heat of the day being spent, as far as possible,
in rest. An inter-unit sports competition, held with the Essex Battery, was
exciting, and included a race on donkeys between the respective officers
commanding! The total results gained were rather in favour of the Essex
Battery.
During April a subscription list was opened for a Memorial to the fallen in
the campaign, to be built in Jerusalem to which the Squadron subscribed
£E14.
Sergt. Larwood, D.C.M., returned on April 11th, having quite recovered from
the wound he received at Tahta. He was posted to "A" Sub-section. On the
21st Lieut. Cazalet was admitted to hospital.
During April Belah was considerably brightened, two large stationary
hospitals being erected, to manage which _a staff of nurses arrived_! They
certainly must have found Belah a quaint place after the civilised
conditions to which they had been accustomed at Cairo and Alexandria, and
in the course of their journey, as well as subsequently, they must have
suffered many discomforts. Introductions, however, were hastily effected,
and very soon, on afternoons, ladies could be seen out, riding with members
of the British forces of the opposite sex.
[Illustration]
Several ladies graced a concert given in the Squadron camp, being conducted
there by certain gallants in two "G.S." wagons and "fours-in-hand"! Another
diversion to the monotony here, was a trip to Jerusalem, which was well
worth the tiring journey, although many were disappointed in the
"side-show-at-an-exhibition" effect, which many of the most sacred spots
presented. It was, however, gratifying to think, that this, the home of our
religion, for which the Crusaders had fought and died, was at last _rescued
from the hands of the infidel_. Ten days' leave was granted to Cairo, Port
Said and Alexandria, but "turns" were necessarily very slow in coming
round.
WE MOVE TO SARONA.
The month of May heralded another "move," and at 09.00 on the 4th, the
Brigade concentrated at the north end of Belah lake and set off northwards.
Nights being spent, successively, three miles north-east of Gaza; two miles
north-east of El Mejdel; one mile east of Wadi Sukereir (heavy downpour of
rain on this day). On the 7th the trail led along the edge of the
sand-dunes and through Yebna[11] to Wadi Hanen. Here a halt of two hours
was made, to water and feed. The country was very picturesque, being
thickly planted with orange-groves, whilst here and there a red-tiled
building was to be seen. At 13.00 the march was continued through
Rishon-le-Zion to the main Jaffa-Ramleh road which is a thoroughly good
metal one. Along this a few miles, thence north to Sarona, two miles
north-east of Jaffa.
Arriving at Sarona at 16.30, the Squadron encamped beside an orange-grove
and adjoining the Aerodrome. It may here be mentioned that Sarona before
the war was a German colony, and from its appearance, must have been a
prosperous one. The main street is lined on both sides with detached and
semi-detached houses, mostly with red tiles, prettily designed. Fir trees
are abundant and help to make a pleasing picture. Outside the village there
are many orange-groves and vineyards, each with its red-tiled house, which
has, either inside or in a separate building, a well with an engine for
pumping water into a stone cistern, from which it is allowed to run, as
required, along concrete gullies, and thus distributed over the land,
irrigating it.
In consequence of the camp proving insanitary the morning after arrival,
the Squadron moved about half a mile nearer the coast into a vineyard! This
was an exceedingly pretty spot, from which an excellent view of Jaffa could
be obtained; a few trees provided us with the unaccustomed luxury of some
shade. The Brigade was attached to the 21st Infantry Corps and was "Corps
Reserve". A training-area was allotted, and every morning the Squadron went
out for mounted training through the village across the narrow gauge "Heath
Robinson" railway, and through the orange-groves out to the area beyond
Point 275 and north of the Village of Selmeh.
FOOTNOTES:
[11] _Yebna = Jabneh of the Bible, see Josh xv, 11; II Chron. xxvi, 6.
There are ruins of a Crusaders' Church here._
INTERESTING TACTICAL INSTRUCTION.
Capt. St. J. Davies, M.C., often gave each section a special task, or
ordered them to concentrate at some place he might select from the map.
Some of these little "stunts" were quite interesting, as often two sections
would set off in almost opposite directions and yet they would arrive at
the rendezvous at practically the same time!
On one of these occasions the horses were taken to the little River
Auja[12] two miles north of the camp, and made to swim across, attached to
an endless rope, being afterwards followed by the men.
On May 23rd the Brigade practised a "concentration" just north of the Auja
and south-west of Sheik Muannis. Our Squadron did well! It arrived at the
point three miles away, in full marching order within 40 minutes from the
time the order was received. On May 28th, the Brigade moved forward north
of the Auja, in reserve for the attack by the 7th Indian Division, but this
movement was merely intended to capture a few enemy posts in order to
narrow "no man's land," and thus bring ourselves into closer touch with the
enemy. The Brigade remained "standing-by" at half an hour's notice until
the evening of the 30th, when it returned to camp.
A Brigade scheme took place on June 7th, "No. 1" Section operated with the
Poona Horse and one Squadron of "S.R.Y."; Nos. 2 and 3 Sections with the
Deccan Horse and "S.R.Y." (less one squadron). On the 13th, another scheme
was practised, "_Defence of the Dahr Selmeh Ridge_". A regimental scheme
with the Poona Horse was also practised, besides several Squadron
manoeuvres.
Sometimes the Squadron would go out before breakfast for the whole day, the
usual routine of camp being carried on wherever they halted; returning
"home" in the afternoon. One of these excursions brought the Squadron to
the Jewish village of Mulebbis, where oranges could be bought by the
cart-load. Two limbers were, therefore, taken back to camp fully loaded up;
this was a discovery much appreciated by all, and two days later a fresh
supply was sent for. Another local product bought at Jaffa and distilled at
Rishon-le-Zion, was red wine. It was very good too! Bought by the Squadron
canteen in large barrels, it was sold at 2-1/2 pt. (6d.) a pint.
The Squadron canteen was doing a good trade at this time. The N.A.C.B. at
Jaffa kept a good stock, and Lance-Corpl. Prior rode down every day and
bought large quantities of all kinds of provisions, as well as barrels of
beer.
Jaffa, where the well-known Jaffa oranges are grown, is rather more like a
European town than others in the country, but still is not to be compared
in any respect with a British town of the same size.[13] A very good
Y.M.C.A. was established there, in which was a picture-house which provided
welcome amusement in the evening. Daily bathing parades were instituted;
the camp being barely a mile from the sea. The usual procedure was to ride
to the shore and "link" horses. The men would then bathe and ride back.
Quite half the horses were taken in the sea with the men, and they seemed
to enjoy the sea just as much, after the first experience.
[Illustration]
Reinforcements to the Squadron during May included Lieut. F.R. Wilgress
(Lovats Scouts), who was posted to "A" Sub-section (and became Officer
Commanding No. 1); Sergt. Lewis ("E" Sub-section), Lance-Corpls. Collett,
Fuller and S.S. Fox.
FOOTNOTES:
[12] _River Auja, the Mejarkon of Joshua xix, 46, one of the boundaries
of the tribe of Dan._
[13] _Jaffa, stated to be the scene of the Legend of Perseus and
Andromeda, is the Joppa and Japho of Scripture, see Josh. xix, 46; II
Chron. ii, 16; Ezra iii, 7; Jonah i, 3; Matt. xii, 40; Acts ix, 36, x,
9. A house said to be that of Simon the Tanner can be seen in the town.
In A.D. 1799 when Napoleon invaded Palestine, he marched 10,000 men
across the desert from Egypt, took El Arish and Gaza easily, but met
with great resistance at Jaffa. Finally, the town was taken, and then
4,000 prisoners were murdered in cold blood after life had been
promised them._
INSECT LIFE IN PALESTINE.
[Illustration]
As has been said, the camp, when it was first taken over, was a
particularly pleasant one, but, as the summer advanced, flies became so
numerous as to affect the health of the Squadron; the trees and bushes
which at first had been looked on as an advantage, now provided excellent
breeding places for the pests. South of Beersheba there are places where
the ground is so thick with beetles that it is difficult to walk without
treading on them at every step; at other places lizards are just as
numerous, and they are as active as mice. In most parts of Palestine
centipedes abound; these, if knocked off the skin in any other but the
direction in which they are moving, are liable to cause a very bad
inflammation and perhaps blood poisoning. Scorpions and tarantula spiders
(which are just as poisonous); snakes which are deadly; sandflies, which
cause a bad fever for several days; mosquitoes, which can inject malignant
malarial germs capable of causing death in a few hours--these are a few of
the many tortures. But of all these pests _the common house fly_, if in
sufficient numbers, is a greater source of annoyance than any, besides
being a spreader of disease. There certainly must have been millions upon
millions of these flies, even within (say) 20 square yards!
Every effort was made to keep the flies down and "straffers" (a piece of
wire gauze about three inches square provided with a handle) were issued.
With these instruments, the flies were killed as fast as the "straffers"
could be brought down upon them. Medical officers inspected the camp and
pronounced the sanitation excellent; yet the flies continued to flourish!
The result of this fly-pest is seen in the number of men that were admitted
to hospital from our Squadron: weeks ending May 10th, three; 17th, six;
24th, eight; 31st, three; June 7th, six; 14th, eight; 21st, nine; 28th,
sixteen (including two officers, Lieut. Millman and Lieut. King); total 59,
_i.e._ more than a quarter of the whole strength _within eight weeks_, and
all for sickness, believed to be caused by flies!
THE "R.A.F." AT SARONA.
As mentioned before, the Squadron camp overlooked the Aerodrome, and many
fine exhibitions of flying were seen there. Boche planes paid us a visit
occasionally, but that was only when none of ours were "up," and as soon as
our men got moving he made off at top speed. Yet, the Boche brought off two
_coups_ that were, no doubt, pleasing to him! It should be mentioned that
the British had one, sometimes two, observation balloons in this sector,
from which the enemy's line, and the country behind it, could be seen very
distinctly indeed, thus enabling our artillery to make it very unpleasant
for any of the enemy's troops, not entrenched; the Turk, on the other hand,
had no such opportunities. Our balloons, therefore, became special objects
of the Turk's attention, and on two occasions, when he flew over to attack
them, he was successful in bringing down on the first occasion two, and the
second time one--in flames! Fortunately, the observers were all able _to
make their descent in parachutes_! The Turk escaped, but only just in
time--our machines were quickly on his "heels," and in spite of all his
attentions, the following day found another British balloon in position
just as if nothing had happened!
[Illustration: At Sarona.
A view from our camp. R.A.F. Hangars can be seen in the distance.]
SQUADRON COMPETITIONS.
The Squadron, by this time, had made great progress in its training. It
was, however, prevented from reaching that high state of efficiency which
is always aimed at--owing to the constant change in its _personnel_, which
was due to such numbers "going sick" to hospital.
A series of inter-sub-section competitions, however, was organised by the
Officer Commanding, which were spread over a few weeks and proved very
popular. The principal events were:--
"_Detachment Competition in Marching Order_"; points being given for
condition of animals and general turn-out--Won by No. 1 Detachment of
"E" Sub-section, under Lance-Corpl. Smith.
"_Limber Competition_"--Won by "D" Sub-section (Drivers Harris and
Collier, who also won a previous competition at Belah).
"_Action Competition_," under Sub-section Sergeants; points given for--
I. _Control_--(A) Drill; (B) Led Horses; (C) Fire Orders, etc.
II. _Time_--taken from command "Action" to when led horses move
back.
III. _Gun Handling, Concealment and Shooting_ (won by "D"
Sub-section, under Sergt. Pearse).
"_Belt Filling by Limber Drivers_" (won by "C" Sub-section).
"_Stripping, Adjustment, Minor Repairs and Immediate Action_" (1st,
Lance-Corpl. Salter; 2nd, Lance-Corpl. Galway).
INSPECTION BY THE "C.-IN-C.".
In consequence of the increased number of cavalry which had arrived in the
country, the 7th Mounted Brigade now formed part of a Division, instead of
being an independent Brigade, as heretofore. This Division, which was
commanded by Major-Gen. H.J.M. MacAndrew, C.B., D.S.O., was at first styled
the "2nd Mounted Division," but, later on, it was altered to the "_5th
Cavalry Division_," comprising the 13th, 14th (the old 7th Mounted), and
15th (Imperial Service), Cavalry Brigades.
On June 27th, the Squadron paraded with the Brigade, in full marching
order, for an inspection of the Division by the "C.-in-C.". They marched to
the plain, north of Rishon-le-Zion, and were there duly inspected and
"marched past," after which units returned to camp, independently. The
"C.-in-C." expressed his high appreciation of the new Division. The next
morning (June 28th 1918) a Divisional tactical scheme was carried out, and
it was somewhat surprising to all ranks upon returning to camp, that orders
were received _for the Brigade to move that night at 01.00_!
[Illustration]
PART IV.
MARCH TO THE JORDAN VALLEY.
Before proceeding with a description of the Squadron's "trek" to the Jordan
Valley, it might be desirable to enlighten the reader as to the actual
position of affairs at the "front".
[Illustration]
After the capture of Jerusalem on December 9th 1917, the Turk made one
forlorn effort to re-capture it. This attempt met with not the slightest
success, and afterwards (in February 1918), he was driven down into the
Jordan Valley, where he had to yield up the town of Jericho to us. Since
then (in March and April), two raids had been made into Turkish territory
on the eastern side of the Jordan in the hills (in which the Sherwood
Rangers Yeomanry, and Essex Battery R.H.A. participated), and on each
occasion, the towns of Es-Salt and Amman were reached. A large number of
prisoners were taken, together with machine-guns and ammunition, added to
which several bridges were destroyed, and the Hedjaz railway from Damascus
to Mecca cut, thus endangering the Turkish troops, which were operating
against the Arab Sherifian Army, further south. Elsewhere on the front, the
position of the "line" had not materially changed, and at the time of the
"20TH MACHINE-GUN SQUADRON'S" tour of duty in the Jordan Valley, it
extended from the coast north of Jaffa south-eastwards across country
(through a point 18 miles north of Jerusalem), to the Jordan Valley,
thence, due south along the eastern bank of the river to the Dead Sea.
Now, it will be readily imagined that when a unit has remained for any
length of time in one place it has automatically collected large quantities
of stores, equipment, etc., which naturally cannot be carried, when on the
march. On this occasion the principal difficulty lay in the stock of
"canteen goods" that we had accumulated. Fortunately the "R.A.F." came to
the rescue and bought the whole lot, "lock, stock and barrel".
As has been stated, there was much sickness in the Squadron at this time,
but many men were able to keep themselves out of hospital because of the
fact that the Squadron was "at rest," besides, they preferred to rough it,
rather than leave their duties. A "sick-parade" was now hurriedly called in
order to dispose of those who could not be expected to take part in the
next "trek". This parade, however, was _vetoed_ from the start, and was, in
fact, unpopular. Only two men turned up! These, with the two officers
previously mentioned (all of whom ought to have "gone down the line"
several days before), were accordingly sent to hospital. Many men were
suffering from septic sores on their legs and feet; permission was asked
(and granted), for these cases, to wear "slacks" or shoes, as might be
necessary. Strange as it might seem, these men preferred to suffer and
remain with the Squadron, when there seemed a chance that they might be
able to come to grips with the enemy and do something really useful.
In these circumstances, it was not a _very_ smart Squadron that paraded
that night, but its spirit would require a lot of beating! The _route_ lay
past Yazur, on the Jaffa road, to Ramleh, which town they were approaching
as day broke, and Ludd[14] could also be seen. The latter town will be
remembered by all who had occasion to go to Egypt for leave or to take a
course of instruction, also by reinforcements who joined the Squadron about
this time, as it was the British railhead; the journey from here to Kantara
on the Suez Canal being accomplished overnight. From Ludd, also, there is a
branch line to Jerusalem, and a narrow gauge railway to Sarona. At Ramleh,
turning off the road to the right, and passing Lieut. Price's grave, we
halted, off-saddled, watered and fed. At 14.00 a further march, arriving at
the water troughs east of Latron at 17.00, camping for the night further up
the road. Fairly on the way to the famous Jordan Valley, ill-accounts of
which they had often heard, we were soon to find that these reports had not
been at all exaggerated!
The next morning (June 30th), the road in front being very steep, rising
continually, with often a drop of several hundred feet on either side,
units started at half-hour intervals.
FOOTNOTES:
[14] _Ludd was the birthplace of St. George, the Patron Saint of
England. A church built here, after his martyrdom, was destroyed on the
approach of the First Crusaders. It was re-built, however, but was
destroyed again by order of Saladin in A.D. 1191. Of this church, two
apses, two bays and the crypt still remain, and to-day the eastern end
has been restored by the Greeks, while the western end is used as a
mosque! In the crypt (belonging to the Greeks) is shown the Tomb of St.
George.
Ludd = Lod of the Scriptures, a city of Benjamin, see I Chron. viii,
12; Neh. xi, 35; Ezra ii, 33; Acts ix, 32._
AN EXCITING MARCH ALONG THE EDGE OF PRECIPICES.
The necessity of this soon became evident. The road was crowded with motors
of all kinds, and it was by no means a joke to ride a restive horse while
leading an obstinate mule, along the brink of a precipice! At 13.00 Enab
was reached, where the Squadron was allotted its ground, rather stony, but
next to the water troughs, which, however, saved a lot of work.
The following afternoon (July 1st), the road being steeper still, the
transport ("A" Echelon), went ahead of the Brigade. The Squadron started at
14.30 (units still moving at half-hour intervals), and proceeded along the
main Jerusalem road through the new town, past the Damascus Gate (at
17.30), to the eastern side of the town, where the transport was passed and
the Brigade concentrated, the highest point having now been reached (2,590
feet above sea level). A halt of two hours was made, and at 20.00 the
descent to the Jordan was commenced. Henceforth it was "down," "down," all
the way, with roads just as precipitous as before, but the mountains being
so high and steep on both sides, not a breath of air reached us. At 02.30
after a tiring march, and after passing the "Inn of the Good Samaritan," we
arrived at the water troughs at Talat-ed-Dumm (1,018 feet above sea level).
After watering, about half an hour later, the Squadron found its camping
ground, a space barely large enough for a section. In this cramped area the
whole of the Squadron was crammed "as tight as sardines in a tin," with,
literally, not an inch to spare!
Early next morning, when the sun began to rise, some idea was gained of
what might be expected in the Jordan Valley. Although Talat-ed-Dumm, as
already stated, is 1,018 feet above the level of the sea, shut in, as it
is, among the mountains away from any breeze, the heat there is almost
unbearable; the rays of the sun seem to take on a hundred times more power
than ever could be believed possible, blazing down from right overhead, and
leaving no shade, thus turning the place into a veritable furnace.
The Brigade did not continue the march again until 19.00, when it moved
along the old Roman road. Still "down," "down," round sharp bends, and
still along the edges of precipices hundreds of feet deep! At length a
final, particularly steep slope, brought us to Jericho,[15] on the plain
of the Jordan Valley, and _820 feet below the level of the sea_. A halt was
made here for a short time, and then the Brigade marched north-east
(through clouds of dust), to its camping area in the Wadi Nueiame, arriving
at midnight. Here, on dismounting in the dark, _one seemed to be standing
in mud_, but, upon closer examination, this was found to be merely several
inches of fine dust! Sec.-Lieut. Cummer, whose turn it was to be with the
advance party that day, was waiting to show the Squadron its camping
ground, which turned out to be as good as could be expected, and alongside
a stream. A few bell-tents were already standing, which were appreciated.
FOOTNOTES:
[15] _The site of the present Jericho has only been occupied since
mediæval times. The ancient Jericho lay near the spring Ain-es-Sultan
and the City of Roman times was more to the south-west. The Biblical
references to Jericho are as follows: Deut. xxxiv; Josh. vi, 26; I
Kings xvi, 34; II Kings ii, 4, 5, 11. Only a mound exists now, to mark
the position of the ancient city, but excavations here have brought to
light some interesting relics._
THE "BEAUTIFUL" VALLEY OF JORDAN.
The following are a few extracts from the notes of a member of the
Squadron, which gives a vivid description of his experiences on the road to
the Jordan. He says:--
"The sun was just setting as we approached Jerusalem, and the
ancient walls of the Holy City were bathed in orange light against
an opalescent sky. The long dusty column of the Brigade toiled its
way up the steep hill into the city, and passing close by the Jaffa
Gate 'turned left' and followed the main thoroughfare towards the
Damascus Gate. Outside of Fast's Hotel (a former German concern,
but now famous throughout the E.E.F.) stands a group of officers
and soldiers, watching our brigade pass, and cheering us on as we
move into the dusk.
"Over the Mount of Olives, past the Garden of Gethsemane (the black
points of its many cypress trees now silhouetted against the sky),
what thoughts are ours as we cross this hallowed ground amid
surroundings so deeply associated with our religion! Some of us may
never return, but yet we shall have followed to our fate along a
path that still holds memories of that greatest sacrifice the world
has ever known!
"Dark has fallen, and the stars shine bright in a velvet sky. At
length we approach the little Village of Bethany,[16] 'the town of
Mary and Martha'; near which we dismount and breathe our horses for
a space; finding a little shop close at hand, we buy some fruit and
'take a pull' at the water-bottle.
"Leaving our last link with civilization we begin our long weary
descent to the Jordan Valley. Before we have covered a mile, it is
obvious that the road is falling steeply. 'Take a good breath now
of the fresh air,' say those who have already experienced the
Jordan Valley, 'for it's the last you'll get for many a day!'
"The road now enters a valley, or more rightly passes between two
lines of rocky hills, and for a time, as it is pitch dark, we
stumble along to keep our places in the column. But soon, the
eastern crest is silhouetted by the rising moon, and as the silver
light pours down the slope we see the road before us, zig-zagging
its way 'into the depths,' and there, a mile in front, the head of
the Brigade worming its way, like a great black snake.
"So steep is it now, and so sharp the 'hairpin' turns, that
although one hears the voices and sees the heads of troops on the
winding road forty yards below, yet these are possibly half a mile
ahead in the column! 'Down' and 'down' we go, _hotter and hotter it
grows_, dustier and dustier the atmosphere!
"Great difficulty is now experienced in keeping touch with the
regiment in front, for in such cases it is always the Machine-Gun
Squadron that is in rear of the column and 'enjoys' the dust. In
action or danger--quite another thing; up, then, just behind the
leading regiment....
"Arrived at Talat-ed-Dumm, too tired now to eat or drink (having
fed our animals) we lie, or rather, fall down on a blanket. In two
minutes we are dreaming that we are back in the 'old country,'
sitting in that cool breeze under the great sycamore tree; drinking
that fine old 'home-brewed,' and talking to the sweetest of all
women. Far away in the distance is the rumbling of a coach; round
the corner it comes into sight, the horses' hoofs thudding on the
hard old Roman road! The guard raises his long coaching horn to his
lips and blows a stirring call. Someone shakes us from behind! Lo!
we open our eyes and--gone is the lovely green country, the shady
trees and the coach! 'Get up! Reveille has gone'.
"All day we rest here, and shall move on the latter part of our
25-mile journey as soon as dark has fallen. Horses to water--but
luckily not far to go, and though two men have fainted with the
heat already, the majority are still 'merry and bright'.
"About 11 o'clock Talat-ed-Dumm becomes literally an oven; no
trees, no water, nothing but rock and dust--dust six inches deep;
the only protection, a single piece of canvas between one and the
pitiless sun! Gasping for breath, one reaches for the water-bottle,
but it is quite warm. Still, a warm drink brings perspiration, and
_that_ is cooling to a certain extent--in its after-effects!
"Night falls, welcomely, and saddled up the Squadron waits for the
advance to begin and to drop into its place in the line of march as
the Brigade moves past. Voices in the darkness, then shadowy forms,
and, their horses' hoofs muffled by the dust, Brigade Headquarters
passes by. Then the three regiments, one British and two Indian,
each of the latter followed by crowds of donkeys looking ghostly
white in the gloom. At length it is _our_ turn, and behind the last
regiment we 'walk march' and once more get the clouds of dust for
our portion. Now, along the level for a time--and then down again,
down towards the valley, to many a valley of death!
"The impression we get, on leaving Talat-ed-Dumm, is rather
different from that ascribed to tourists in the guide book to
Palestine. '_It is with regret_,' it says, '_that we drag ourselves
away from a spot of such historic interest, where so many of the
patriarchs have rested_'. God help 'em! _we_ never wish to see it
again. No wonder to us, now, that Naaman the Syrian objected to go
down to the Jordan and wash seven times in it![17]
"The horses slip and slide as they pick their way down the old
Turkish road, and once more the moon looks over the hills and
floods her silvery radiance over all--the same moon that in two
hours will rise upon the old homestead in Blighty. But here are we,
among great mountains, rugged and cleft, fantastic shapes in high
relief, in the moonlight. We might be in the moon itself! Not a
sign of life, not a bird nor an animal!
"By mid-night we have dropped 1,100 feet, and gradually the ground
grows less rocky, the hills on the right swing away, and on the
left, just ahead, is the square-topped El-Kuruntal, the so-called
'Mountain of Temptation,' and the gateway of the Jordan Valley.
Reaching the plain the pace grows faster, and clouds of dust arise
worse than ever. Our connecting files find great difficulty in
keeping in touch, so that every now and then those in rear must
gallop to keep up. A small wadi to be crossed makes the pace still
more uneven. We cross the Wadi Nueiame and reach our camping
ground. Again the putting down of lines; again supperless and tired
out to lie down on a blanket in the dust, in that unnatural hollow
1,250 feet below the SEA-LEVEL, THE PLACE OF SWELTERING SUN,
SAND-SPOUTS, SCORPIONS, SNAKES, SPIDERS AND SEPTIC SORES; OF
SCORCHING WIND AND SHADOWLESS WASTE; THAT HELLISH PLACE--THE JORDAN
VALLEY!"
FOOTNOTES:
[16] _See St. John, chap. xi._
[17] _See II Kings v, 10._
INCIDENTS IN THE JORDAN VALLEY CAMPAIGN.
A few days were necessarily spent in the Wadi Nueiame in exercising the
horses and becoming acclimatized to the temperature, which rarely falls
below 100°, even at night, and is usually 120° in the shade (or over)
during the day. On July 7th, "No. 1" Section paraded at 19.00 and proceeded
to the east of the Jordan to relieve a section of the 21st Squadron in the
line. "A" Sub-section took over the emplacements in No. 3 Post, and "C"
Sub-section those in No. 5 Post. The relief was completed by 23.00. The
next evening, the remainder of the Squadron relieved the 21st Squadron
in their camp at the Ghoraniyeh Bridge. One section only going at a time to
avoid attracting attention and being shelled by the Turks, who were posted
in the hills. The new camp was within 100 yards of the Jordan,[18] nearly
surrounded by cliffs, the tops of which were level with the plain above.
The cliffs themselves only being formed by the depression in the plain
before it gives way to the lower ground in the immediate vicinity of the
River Jordan and the east of it. The river at this point is actually 1,250
feet below the level of the sea!
[Illustration: Squadron Camp in the Jordan Valley. "No. 2" Section.]
On arriving in the camp, "No. 2" Section took over the machine-gun
positions for the inner defences of the bridgehead. These had to be manned
at night only, and were on the tops of the cliffs near the camp, commanding
all the crossings of the river. Every evening just before dusk (sometimes
in a severe dust storm), the four guns were taken up on the pack-mules by
the gun-teams and brought back after light the next morning. "No. 3"
Section was in Divisional reserve, and liable to be called on at short
notice to proceed to any part of the line. It provided also all the camp
fatigues.
It was soon found that summer-life in the Jordan Valley was about the limit
of discomfort; only those who have been there at that season can have any
idea of what it is like. If only our turn had been in the winter, when
according to all accounts the weather _is_ bearable! Needless to say that
as much work as possible was done in the early morning and evening, but
even this was extremely trying for all. Fortunately, water was available
from a small stream just outside the camp. Rush-huts and bivouacs provided
the best protection against the sun. Material for these was obtained from
the banks of the Jordan, where, for a few yards on either side, there was
luxurious vegetation--in striking contrast with the rest of the country;
during the day men were allowed to bathe in the river.
All wheels had to be covered over during the day in order to prevent the
wood shrinking; if this had not been done, very little transport could have
been brought out of the valley at the end of the Brigade's tour of duty!
There is, a little over a mile east of the Jordan, a series of low isolated
hills; upon these was situated our line of defence. Each hill, fortified
with barbed-wire and trenches, constituted a "post". This line was held by
Indian Infantry, the regiments of the cavalry brigade providing the patrols
in "no man's land," which, _several miles wide_, was intersected by
thousands of wadis (providing excellent cover for a stealthy enemy), also a
certain amount of tall grass.
The enemy's position was on the mountains at the eastern side of the Jordan
Valley, completely overlooking ours. Earlier in the year they had crossed
the intervening ground, under cover of darkness, and attempted to send us
to "Jericho". They had found the posts too strong for them, however, and
had retired to the positions now mentioned.
"C" Sub-section was on the left, on the banks of the Wadi Nimrin[19]--a
broad wadi with a small stream running along its centre. This wadi ran
right from the Turkish positions to the Jordan near the Squadron camp. "A"
Sub-section was about half a mile away to the right in the centre of a
cluster of small hills. "A's" horses were between the two Sub-sections, and
"C's" were a few hundred yards behind its position under a cliff beside the
Nimrin. If anything, it was probably more pleasant to be with the sections
in the line than in the Squadron Camp.
Nothing of importance happened during our first week. Shells came over
every day at unexpected moments in odd places, and Boche planes paid
regular visits, dropping bombs, always, however, receiving a bombardment
from our "Archies". But on the morning of July 14th, after a night of more
than the usual amount of artillery fire, shells began to fall all around,
not to mention the shrapnel exploding overhead; this state of affairs
continued throughout the whole morning. "No. 2" Section in camp was well
protected by a high cliff, but "No. 3" was not so fortunate and had to be
moved. All the horses had been taken to another spot, and Sergt. Lewis with
some men were seeing that everything required had been removed, when a
shell pitched right in the centre of the "lines" and wounded him and Ptes.
H. Reed and L. Peach. All the day the shelling continued; the immediate
neighbourhood of the bridges over the Jordan being the "warmest" spot. A
field ambulance, close to the Squadron, behind the right reserve gun
position, suffered badly. In the evening all shelling stopped--more
suddenly even than it had started!
FOOTNOTES:
[18] _The River Jordan is rich in historical associations, right from
its source on Mt. Hermon to the Dead Sea, into which it flows. The
Israelites crossed the Jordan on dry ground (Josh. iii, 14); our Lord
was baptized there (St. John i, 28 and St. Matt. iii, 13). See also II
Kings ii, 8, x, 14; Matt. iii, 5; St. John x, 40._
[19] _See Isa. xv, 6._
A THWARTED TURKISH ATTACK.
Afterwards was learnt the cause of the excitement. The Turk, it was
ascertained, _had intended an attack all along the line_. At one point,
only, had the movement matured, and this was opposite the Australian
Section, on our left. Here, German troops succeeded in getting right round
some of the posts and endangering our bridgehead defences; they had moved
guns up, which enabled them to reach places previously out of range of
anything but their "heavies". Although surrounded, the posts named still
held out, and the Boches were finally driven back to their starting point,
where, it is said, they were fired on by the Turks!
On July 17th, "No. 2" Section relieved "No. 1" in the line. "No. 3" took
over the inner defences, and "No. 1" became Divisional reserve. Lieut. E.B.
Hibbert (who left in February 1918 for leave and a course in the United
Kingdom) returned on July 25th and took command of "No. 3" Section. On
August 3rd "No. 3" Section relieved "No. 2", the inner defences being taken
over by "No. 1". A few days later "No. 3" Section was withdrawn from the
posts and camped close to Brigade Headquarters to be employed as Mobile
Reserve for the outer defences, but owing to shortage of personnel in the
posts, the guns had to be mounted in their previous positions at night.
THE "VALLEY" A DEATH TRAP.
The "Valley" soon began to affect the health of the Squadron. All kinds of
fever became rampant, particularly malaria. Men would suddenly become sick,
or collapse in a fainting fit, their temperature quickly rising to 104° or
thereabouts! Doctors and medical orderlies were much overworked, and became
almost unable to cope with the "rush"; men had to be undressed and tended
on the spot by their own comrades, who sponged them down in order to reduce
their temperature. The Squadron's thanks are due to Pte. Ineson, who, as
its own medical orderly, was untiring in his attention to the sick.
Undoubtedly, but for his efforts, the list of men admitted to hospital
would have been considerably larger.
During July, the O.C. (Capt. L.F. St. J. Davies, M.C., who soon returned,
however, although not quite recovered), and 38 men, were admitted to
hospital. On August 10th, Lieut. Wilgress and Lieut. Hibbert went to
hospital.
When the Squadron left the Valley on August 15th (being relieved by the
21st Squadron), the total casualties were _three officers and 113 O.R.'s_.
Fortunately, a number of reinforcements had arrived, including many from
Yeomanry regiments recently dismounted. The first halt was Talat-ed-Dumm,
where the 17th Squadron was passed at 02.30 on its way down to the valley.
A better camping site was available than the last time, when we camped
here.
The following evening the march was continued, and Jerusalem was passed
through at midnight. The next morning the Brigade arrived at Enab, having
watered at the troughs at Ain el Foka, on the way.
KHURBET DEIRAN
The same evening the Brigade moved via Latron, Barriyeh and Naane to
Khurbet Deiran arriving at 07.30 the next morning, the rest of the day
being spent in laying out the new camp. That day Lieut. Cazalet returned
from hospital and temporarily took command of "No. 2" Section (while Lieut.
Kindell went on a course at Zeitoun), afterwards taking over his old
section ("No. 1").
No sooner had the Brigade settled down in its new quarters than very
strenuous training was re-commenced--in addition there were inspections
galore--besides tactical schemes, almost every other day. Reinforcements
came up, which included many men new to the Squadron, which was, in
consequence, soon nearly up to strength. Lieut. King returned from
hospital, but still being far from well had, soon afterwards, to go back
there. On September 13th Lieut. Millman returned from hospital and Lieut.
Kindell from his course of instruction. Lieut. Millman resumed command of
his late section ("No. 3"). On September 14th the Squadron turned out in
complete marching order with transport, for a Divisional "scheme," the
Division moving south on a six-mile frontage, sections coming into action
with an imaginary enemy at various points.
[Illustration]
PART V.
THE GREAT ADVANCE OF 1918.
So well had the secret of the great operations, that were in view by the
Commander-in-Chief, been kept, that no one in the Squadron had any idea of
a general attack being in contemplation. It was, in fact, not until the day
that the Squadron was ordered to strike camp, that any officer or man
(except perhaps the officer commanding), became aware that a serious
movement was about to take place! An attack at any time would not, of
course, have been entirely unexpected, as we were always prepared for
something of the kind, but on this occasion the rumours that usually
precede operations of importance were entirely absent--although the number
of tactical schemes recently practised should have indicated that some
particular purpose was in view.
At 18.00 on September 17th, the Squadron paraded in full marching order,
and moved off, leaving all tents and buildings standing. _We never returned
to those quarters!_
The strength of the Squadron at this time was six officers, 212 O.R.'s, 181
riding horses, 80 draft mules, 43 pack animals. So far as can be
ascertained now, the following were the officers and N.C.O.'s:--
_Headquarters:_
Major L.F. St. John Davies, M.C.
Capt. R.H. Fairbairns, M.C.
S.S.M. Fleet, M.M.
S.Q.M.S. Fisher.
Farr.-Staff-Sergt. Robertson.
Sergt. Conuel (Transport).
Sergt. Ramsay (Orderly Room).
S.S.-Corpl. Anderson.
Sig.-Corpl. Foster.
Saddler-Corpl. Mellett.
_"No. 1" Section:_
Sec-Lieut. J.W. Cummer.
_"A" Sub-section:_ _"C" Sub-section:_
Sergt. Larwood, D.C.M. Sergt. Roberts.
Corpl. Rouse. Corpl. Gage.
Lance-Corpl. Holt. Lance-Corpl. Rose.
" Moverley. " Sneddon.
_"No. 2" Section:_
Lieut. A.O.W. Kindell.
_"B" Sub-section:_ _"D" Sub-section:_
Sergt. Hazlehurst. Sergt. Salter.
Lance-Corpl. Lawson. Lance-Corpl. Fox.
" Stokes. " Fuller.
Corpl. Pearse.
_"No. 3" Section:_
Lieut. A.G.P. Millman.
Sec.-Lieut. J.K.W. Arden.
_"E" Sub-section:_ _"F" Sub-section:_
Sergt. Potts. Sergt. Grice, M.M.
Corpl. Thompson. Corpl. Keetley.
Lance-Corpl. Pountain. Lance-Corpl. Buckingham.
" Woodhouse. " Patterson.
The route taken was familiar to everyone. Passing Rishon-le-Zion (Ayun
Kara) the Squadron came upon its old friend the Jaffa Road, thence, past
Yazur to Sarona, by exactly the same way as was taken in the previous May.
Bearing to the left, past the village, we arrived at Summeil and the camp
south of the River Auja, where Sec.-Lieut. Arden, who had been sent on in
advance to take over the Squadron area, showed us our position in the camp.
Arriving at dusk the whole Brigade (horses, wagons and men), were hidden
in orange groves; it was certainly not an easy task to fit everything up in
the dark, the avenues between the trees being narrow and in most places
only allowing horses to be led in single file.
The orders for the morrow (equally unenlightening) were to the effect that
no unnecessary movement was to take place, and that no one, on any account,
_was to go outside the groves_; the horses were to be watered at stated
hours from the stone gullies used by the natives for the irrigation of the
plantations; no fires were allowed; and all cooking was to be done with the
methylated spirit blocks which were issued out for the purpose.
The daytime was passed without incident, but 18.30 found the Brigade
paraded outside the groves ready to march at dusk. Crossing the Auja by the
wooden bridge, and proceeding stealthily along the sea shore, below the
cliffs, about five miles to west of El Jelil, it halted in "column of
troops," off-saddled, watered from a trough, supplied by water from a well
dug beside it, "linked" horses and laid down on the sand to get some sleep.
It may be imagined that by this time everyone was wondering what the next
day would bring forth!
ADVANCE TO LIKTERA (EL HUDEIRA).
Before daylight we were saddled up and "standing to"--a vigorous
bombardment of the Turkish trenches (which we had been told the previous
night to expect) was in full swing. Suddenly, it stopped! Who was there
among us who did not think of the part the infantry were then playing, and
upon whose successful attack so much was to depend?
When would orders arrive for us, on the beach, to move? Patiently waiting
and expecting, nothing however came! Suddenly at 07.00, the troops in front
were seen mounting, and at length the surprising order came through to us
that the entire Division was _to make its way to Nazareth_--quite 50 miles
behind the enemy's line, as the crow flies!
The 13th Brigade, being on the sands in front of the 14th, was to lead this
movement. The Poona Horse were to be the leading regiment of the 14th, with
ourselves (the 20TH MACHINE-GUN SQUADRON) immediately behind them.
"GET BACK OUR GUNS".
Upon advancing a short way up the coast, we reached what had been the
British front line, and evidences of the morning's action were to be seen,
as here and there several dead men and mules were lying about. As we passed
by this spot, an officer of an Infantry Machine-Gun Company called out to
us: "Good luck, get us back our guns. They raided us this morning and
captured two!"
A few yards further on, the old Turkish line was reached and a number of
killed and wounded Turks and animals were to be seen here also.
Right along the coast we went, "without let or hindrance," the high cliffs
affording us protection from the few shells coming over, nearly all of
which fell into the sea. The pace was killing, and the sand and rocks made
it heavy going for the horses. They were very fit though, thanks to the
hard training they had had at Deiran!
Still proceeding northward, about six miles along the coast, the cliffs
suddenly gave way to flatter ground; here we turned inland in a
north-easterly direction. Reports reached us that about 200 enemy infantry
(with transport) were in a wood on our right flank. "No. 1" Section and one
squadron of Poona Horse were detailed as "flank guard" to prevent the enemy
leaving the wood until the Brigade had passed by. The flank guard, however,
were instructed not to trouble to dispose of this small party, as bigger
"fish" were in view.
At 11.30 the Brigade had reached the Nahr Iskanderun. After crossing slowly
by two small, very shaky, bridges, units hurriedly watered here,
independently, by means of buckets, the banks of the stream being very
steep. The country now became delightful, cultivated, everywhere, with
orange groves and gardens. At 12.30 the Brigade, winding its way through
the groves, came out into the pretty little Village of Liktera (a Jewish
settlement called by them Hudeira), 26 miles from the starting point. The
inhabitants were overjoyed to see us, and as a halt was made here, and
horses off-saddled and fed, they soon made us at home with gifts of bread,
eggs and milk, refusing to take any payment therefor.
Until the inhabitants had seen the head of our Division, about a mile off,
they had not the slightest idea that there had even been a British attack!
They were particularly anxious to know how the people were faring in such
villages as Mulebbis, and other places, south of our old line, where they
had friends and relatives. As indicative that our advance was carried out
with speed and secrecy--while we were resting here, _a Boche motor lorry
arrived_! The driver, being unaware of anything unusual, drove quietly
into the town; he nearly fell off his seat when he was suddenly surrounded
by British troops! This lorry proved to be the advance guard of several
more, all of which were, of course, captured.
CAPTURE OF EL FULE.
After a sleep in the afternoon (what a luxury for the first day of a
"stunt!") and tea, the Brigade saddled up and moved off at 18.00, just
before dark. What a cheery crowd it was! But they had "some" march in front
of them, the object being the capture of Nazareth and the cutting of the
Turk's principal line of communication, _which would isolate practically
the whole of his army west of the Jordan_! Just outside the village, two
large marquees--a German Field Ambulance--hurriedly evacuated, were passed.
Earlier in the day an officer of the 13th Brigade had found an untasted
breakfast here, for which he had much reason to be thankful!
[Illustration]
Further on, the track taken (the main route being avoided) proved very
bad, and in many places the whole division had to proceed in "single file".
In some places, also, horses were led. The natives, who had gathered upon
the road-side from the villages which we passed, stood silently watching
us. They must have been amazed, and the troops must have appeared to them
veritable "ghosts of the night". At 23.30 a halt of 30 minutes was made, at
a small village, and horses fed. In the early hours of the morning many
horses, belonging to the forward part of the column, were passed by the
wayside. They were completely "done". No doubt they were, in some cases,
able, later on, to join up, but in their present state their riders had
taken their saddles off and had lain down beside them, to sleep. For the
moment these men had nothing further to do, but they must have run a
serious risk from hostile natives when the Brigade had passed by. At 04.00
the next morning we emerged upon the open Plain of Esdraelon.[20]
FOOTNOTES:
[20] _The Plain of Esdraelon stretches across Central Palestine, and
has an average width of about 10 miles. It forms a wide break between
the Mountains of Galilee on the north and those of Samaria on the
south. It has always been a great battlefield; in the Bible it is
called the Plain of Jezreel; see Judges iv, 3, v, 21, vi, 1; I Sam.
xxix, xxxi; I Kings xx, 25; Josh. xvii, 16._
A GREAT MOVE!
Now was to take place an interesting development in the operations. With
Nazareth within fairly close reach, our objective was at hand. We formed up
as quickly as possible in "Line of troop column," and then moved along the
plain to the east, heading slightly towards the north, gradually nearing
the north side as we proceeded forward. The objective for the 14th Brigade
was to cut the main road to Nazareth from the south, thus cutting off all
communication between the Turkish General Headquarters at Nazareth and
their line, which ran across the country from Arsuf to the north of the
Dead Sea. The 13th Brigade, which, it will be remembered, up to this point
had been the leading one, after forming up, made for the hills on the other
side of the plain, and, reaching them, turned to the east, towards their
objective which was _the Turkish General Headquarters at Nazareth_!
The "going" on the plain was very bad, especially in the dark, the ground
being a network of cracks and covered with a species of tall needle-grass,
the latter making it very painful for the horses, whilst the former,
continually giving way under their weight made the risk of broken legs a
real one. Fortunately, however, no serious accidents took place. What
wonderful creatures horses are! Those who were on that trek could not fail
to realise it, if they had never done so before! As time went on and the
goal was still not reached, it seemed that they _must_ drop at any minute,
_but still they kept on_, never faltering! A few dropped out, it is true,
but they were a very small percentage of the whole. What courage and
endurance they showed, to carry a weight of (say) 18 stone, _50 miles in 24
hours_ over the worst country imaginable!
About half way across the plain, the railway to Haifa was "cut," and,
pushing on, there were still some miles to go when day began to break. Many
thought they would now be "in for" a hot time, and expected guns to open
upon them from all sides.
But the Turk was still quite ignorant of our presence. In any case he was
not prepared for an attack at that distance behind his line! When it became
fully light the 13th Brigade could be seen on the top of the ridge on the
left moving parallel with us, and, in front of us, there was Mount
Tabor[21] which served as a "guide" for direction. At 05.30 enemy motor
lorries were seen crossing our front going towards Nazareth. We opened fire
upon them but they did not stop.
Proceeding up the hill, they discovered that our 13th Brigade troops were
on the top, when they stopped about half way up and opened fire with
machine-guns. Upon this our "No. 2" Section came up and "peppered" them.
One lorry caught fire and after a short time the occupants of the convoy,
trying to escape up the hill, were captured by the 13th Brigade. Shortly
after this incident, Turkish troops were seen marching up the road towards
us, but a squadron from the Sherwood Rangers and Deccan Horse with our "No.
3" Section quickly caused them to be quite in a hurry to surrender.
FOOTNOTES:
[21] _Mount Tabor rather resembles a sugar-loaf in shape, flattened at
the top; its height from the plain is about 1,500 feet. It was here
that Deborah commanded Barak to muster his army: "So Barak went down
from Mount Tabor, and ten thousand men after him. And the Lord
discomfited Sisera and all his chariots and all his host, with the edge
of the sword before Barak". (Judges iv, 14, 15). See also Judges viii,
18; Psalms xxxix, 12; Jer. xlvi, 18. The Crusaders built a church and a
monastery on Mount Tabor; they were destroyed in 1187 and the ruins
still remain. In 1255 the Knights of St. John held it but lost it in
1263 to Bibars._
THE ENEMY PANIC-STRICKEN.
From a small rise could be seen, looking down the road, a large camp and El
Fule railway station with trucks, carriages and engines, also large dumps
of material. Everywhere, crowds of enemy troops were to be seen rushing
about; apparently in a state of great panic. In these circumstances a
squadron of the Deccan Horse went down to "look into things" and after
"dealing" with a few of the excitable "Johnnies" the remainder surrendered.
About 900 prisoners were taken that morning. Later on in the day the
Brigade moved down to the station and encamped, the horses being watered
from a trough which was discovered about a mile along the railway.[22]
Here, there was found a large quantity of stores of all descriptions,
including Turkish cigarettes, which were not refused as a ration on such an
occasion. The capture of El Fule released an R.A.F. pilot, who, having to
land in consequence of engine trouble that morning, had been taken prisoner
by some Austrian gunners who, with their horses only, were retreating. They
were anxious to know which way the British were coming, in order to decide
which road they should take. Of course they did not learn anything, but
fortunately came along this road and thus fell into our hands.
Here it might be mentioned that the work of the R.A.F. was truly wonderful.
Prior to the "stunt," in order to ensure that the enemy should not be aware
of the massing of our cavalry just before the attack and their subsequent
movements after the infantry had broken through, they flew continually over
the enemy aerodromes and prevented enemy airmen from rising. Perhaps it
should be said they rather tempted them to do so, but--they never did!
Consequently, on the day of our attack, the enemy had no information at all
of what was happening, as his planes were on the ground and remained there
until they were either burnt or captured. They certainly would not rise! At
El Fule a very large aerodrome had been established, and a large collection
of enemy machines was found there. It was not long before these were joined
by some of our own which arrived almost as soon as it had been taken.
During the day the 13th Brigade had been dealing with Nazareth, and that
night our Brigade slept at El Fule. Next morning we were to go southwards
to Jenin (which might or might not have been captured), and clear the
intervening country.
FOOTNOTES:
[22] _About a mile south of the site of the present station at El Fule
was the scene of a great battle between the French and the Turks, on
April 16th 1799, called the Battle of Mount Tabor. Kleber with about
1,500 men kept 25,000 Syrians at bay; he was almost defeated when
Napoleon with 600 men arrived. The Turks, thinking a large army was
upon them, fled. Here also are ruins of a church of the Crusaders,
destroyed by Saladin._
JENIN[23] CROWDED WITH ABANDONED MATERIAL.
With this end somewhat in view, Lieut. Kindell was ordered to fix up two
machine-guns in a captured Boche motor-car, and, acting as left "flank
guard" to the Brigade, was directed to go to Jenin by a road running
parallel to, and on the left of, the one to be taken by the Brigade. When
fitted up the car looked quite formidable. Lance-Corpls. Fox and Fuller and
Ptes. Boak (with signal flags) and Franklin accompanied him. The driver of
the Brigade car was lent for this special occasion.
After re-filling with German petrol in the morning, they started off upon
their journey. They soon came up with all kinds of derelict enemy transport
and Turkish stragglers coming in. At one point ahead, could be seen a crowd
of people (which proved to be natives) around some deserted enemy motor
lorries. A troop of "S.R.Y." (detached from the Brigade for the purpose),
came galloping over, but, as already stated, they proved to be only
villagers looking about for some "plunder," and they were soon sent about
their business. Further on Lieut. Kindell's car was joined by two other
cars of the "Light Car Patrol" each with a machine-gun, so that the party
now consisted of three cars with four guns.
On arriving at Jenin they found the streets simply choked with abandoned
Turkish transport. It was only by moving each wagon aside by hand that
they were able to proceed through the town and meet the Brigade before it
arrived there on the other side; the cars were then sent off again on a
patrol. Unfortunately, upon returning through the town, the driver of our
car, on turning a corner, ran into the pole of a wagon, and broke the
radiator. Such was the end of the Squadron "armoured" car, much to the
disappointment of the occupants, who were just beginning to enjoy their
novel experience.
It should be stated that the town of Jenin, together with a very large
number of prisoners, had been captured the previous night by the
Australians. Here, too, was an aerodrome and several burnt enemy
planes--more evidence of the splendid work of the R.A.F.
Our Brigade remained in the Jenin area until evening, when, having watered,
we went back along the El Fule road towards Nazareth and about half way,
bore off to the right, encamping upon the hills south-east of El Fule and
south of the El Fule-Beisan Road. The next morning (22nd September), we
moved down the hills northwards and camped just south of the Beisan Road,
near water. The day was spent in a well-earned rest.
The transport arrived at the camp complete, and allowed of forage and
rations being replenished. How it had been able to come through the enemy
country by roads suitable for transport without being attacked, remained a
mystery to those who do not know the circumstances! During the day
thousands of Turkish and German prisoners were marched along the road from
Beisan, usually in the charge of only a few mounted men.
FOOTNOTES:
[23] _Josh xix, 21, xxi, 29._
ON TO HAIFA AND ACRE!
The next day (September 23rd), everything having been cleared up in this
district, the Division set out for Haifa and Acre on the coast. A glance at
the map will show that these towns are about 12 miles distant from each
other, both being about 23 miles from Nazareth--there being two separate
roads. The northern road to Acre was taken by the 13th Brigade and the
southern to Haifa by the 15th and 14th. As regards our Squadron the first
part of the journey to Haifa was just in the nature of a "route march,"
although the pace ridden was fast at times. The 15th Brigade was the
leading one and the 13th Brigade as stated above made straight to Acre from
Nazareth. Passing through El Fule the 15th and 14th followed the railway
for some distance, then bearing off to the right they joined the main road
from Nazareth to Haifa along the hills bordering the plain.
From Sheikh Abreik[24]--the highest point on the road--the sea could be
seen in the distance, a beautiful blue, whilst a refreshing breeze met the
face. A short distance further on, a halt was made. During this the sound
of guns was heard in the distance from the direction of the sea. No
opposition having been expected, all sorts of reports came down the column
concerning the cause of the firing, such as--
(1) British destroyers in the bay have mistaken the 15th Brigade for the
enemy!
(2) The enemy have got a naval gun with which they are shelling the head of
the column!
But all rumours proved to be false. What _was_ really happening was the
Turkish garrison at Haifa (about 1,000 strong) with field and machine-guns
were defending the town against our advance--a hopeless affair, considering
that they were entirely cut off, without any chance of obtaining supplies
or reinforcements.
FOOTNOTES:
[24] _In the days of the Romans Sheikh Abreik was the headquarters of a
Tribune._
CAPTURE OF HAIFA BY THE 15TH BRIGADE.
The Sherwood Rangers went to the assistance of the 15th Brigade which
really had a very difficult task, as the plain before Haifa was, in many
places, boggy and almost impassable; in addition there were many streams
flowing across it. The main road to Haifa runs right along the foot of
Mount Carmel[25] on the left of the plain, and bordering it. It was here
that the enemy had established themselves, covering every part of the
ground with their guns. With great dash, however, the 15th Brigade galloped
the enemy positions, and within a short time had captured the town! Much to
everybody's regret, the son of General Sir Pertab Singh was killed during
this attack. His loss was much regretted by his comrades, and all who knew
him.
While this action was taking place, we (the 14th Brigade) descended the
hill from Sheikh Abreik, crossed a bridge, which was at a great height over
the river Kishon[26], and, turning to the right off the road, dismounted
and watered from it with buckets. It was here that, owing to over-keenness
on the part of two horses in the Squadron, they broke away, and, trying to
drink from the river, fell in! Fortunately both were rescued, but not
without great difficulty. Meanwhile, shelling was going on; luckily the
shells all fell short of us, although having descended the hill, as
mentioned, we had attracted the attention of the Turkish gunners. Later on
in the day we moved into Haifa[27] along the road which had been the scene
of the action. Passing the results of the work of the 15th Brigade and of
the "S.R.Y." which, to judge from the numbers of killed and wounded along
the road (which were being dealt with by the Cavalry Field Ambulance), must
have been of a very strenuous character, we at length encamped upon the
sea-shore, under date palms, within a mile north of the town! The distance
covered that day was 25 miles.
The 13th Brigade, meantime, had captured Acre[28] on the north, after only
slight opposition, yet it had effected, within a few hours, the feat which
Napoleon had entirely failed to accomplish after a siege of 60 days!
Incidentally, it may be mentioned, that heaps of his cannon-balls were
found at Haifa.
The next morning (24th), our men and horses bathed in the sea! A short
distance out, underwater, it was found that barbed wire had been fixed.
This the Turks had evidently placed in position with the object of
preventing a landing _from the sea_. These entanglements, however, in no
way impeded the bathing as they could easily be seen in the clear water.
Our troops were also allowed to visit the town, which was found to be very
interesting; there being many modern houses, it was, in several respects,
superior to any town we had previously visited in the interior. It is not
too much to say that many of the inhabitants were delighted to see the
British. They even said that they had expected us the previous year!
FOOTNOTES:
[25] _Mount Carmel extends from the sea coast at Haifa, inland 15
miles, in a south-easterly direction, thus forming a separating ridge
between the Plains of Sharon and Esdraelon. Its height is about 500
feet at the sea, and 1,800 feet at its inland extremity. The mountain
has always been associated with the name of the Prophet Elijah. It was
here that he was said to have sought shelter when Ahab was seeking his
life. A monastery stands over what is thought was the spot, and was
used as a hospital for the wounded when Napoleon was besieging Acre.
After his withdrawal it was destroyed by the Turks and afterwards
re-built through the energy of a monk who travelled and begged for 14
years to obtain funds for the present building. The Biblical references
to the mountain are: Josh. xix, 26; Deut. xiv, 5; I Kings iv, 23,
xviii, 13; Isa. xxxv, 2, lv, 12, xxxiii, 9; Amos i, 2; Song of Solomon
vii, 5; Micah vii, 14._
[26] _See Judges iv, 13, and v, 21._
[27] _Haifa is notorious on account of its associations with Mount
Carmel. The Latin Carmelites reached Haifa in A.D. 1170 and St. Simon
Stock, from Kent, was their general in A.D. 1245. They were massacred
by the Egyptians in 1291 but regained power in the middle of the
Sixteenth Century._
[28] _There is only one reference to Acre in the Old Testament (Judges
i, 31), and one in the New Testament (Acts xxi, 7), under the name of
Ptolemais. It was taken by the Crusaders in A.D. 1102, and held till
1187, as a port of the Kings of Jerusalem. After a siege it was
re-taken from Saladin in 1191, and held for a century. It was here that
the Knights of St. John, after they had been driven from every other
part of Palestine, prolonged for forty-three days their gallant
resistance to the Sultan of Egypt and his immense host; 60,000
Christians were on that occasion slain or sold as slaves. Napoleon
besieged Acre in 1799, but was prevented from taking it by the British
under Sir William Sidney Smith. It was bombarded in 1840, by British
and Turkish Fleets, when an explosion of a magazine destroyed the
town._
CAPTURE OF DAMASCUS.[29]
After another day spent at Haifa, back again the Division went (leaving the
"S.R.Y." as a garrison), along the same road by which they had come, as
far as the top of the hill above the river. Here we branched off to the
left through Beit Lahm (a German colony), and Seffurie to Kefr Kenna, four
miles north-east of Nazareth on the Tiberias Road, said to be the "Cana of
Galilee" where the water was turned into wine[30]. The latter part of the
road was very narrow and rocky, being in parts merely a goat-track. Our
animals had no water that day--it being quite unobtainable in spite of
previous advices.
At 02.00 the next morning (September 26th) the Division started for
Tiberias[31]. "No. 1" Section going with the advance guard, the remainder
of the Squadron following the Deccan Horse. The 14th Brigade reached the
shores of Lake Tiberias[32] (Sea of Galilee) just north of the town at
08.30 and halted until 12.00 to allow the Australian Mounted Division to
pass through on their way towards Damascus. Here, horses were "off-saddled"
and watered twice during the halt, the water being quite fresh and clear.
Being upon the shore, which was gently shelving, they were able to walk in
and drink to their hearts' content. A number of men also took the
opportunity to bathe; it was fairly hot, being 680 feet below the level of
the sea.
The River Jordan runs right through the lake, and it is interesting to know
now that this point was 64 miles (as the crow flies), up the river from the
site of the late Squadron camp when it was previously in the Jordan Valley.
It was reported to us that the 4th Division had had tough work in the
streets of Tiberias in order to capture it. They had now gone round the
southern shores of the lake and joined forces with the Sherifian Troops,
who had been harassing the enemy's Fourth Army east of the Jordan and were
now pursuing them northwards. Practically the whole of the Turkish Seventh
and Eighth Armies, which previously held the line west of the Jordan, had
now been accounted for.
At 12.00 we continued the advance along the shores of the lake through
pleasant, cultivated country, to the north-west corner; then northward, for
about six miles, and down an avenue of trees, past the pretty little Jewish
village of Jataine.
The Australians, in front, were held up at Kusa Atra on the Jordan by
artillery and machine-guns at the bridge, which the enemy had destroyed.
That night the 14th Brigade encamped within two miles of this bridge,
having marched over 30 miles that day. Early the next morning (September
28th) the Australians crossed the river by the ford, and "scuppered" the
party which had been holding them up, but, unfortunately, with the loss of
a few of their number. The 14th Brigade accordingly moved down to the river
at 09.00 and watered, and at 15.00 crossed by the bridge which had, by
then, been repaired by the Royal Engineers ("No. 2" Section with advance
guard fording), and continued north-easterly along what would have been a
good road with the help of a steam roller (but at present was the reverse,
owing to the large stones put down not being rolled in), to Kuneitra (14
miles by the map but actually hardly less than 20), arriving 23.00.
FOOTNOTES:
[29] _Damascus is a very ancient city, and existed even in the time of
Abraham. The story that it was here that Cain killed Abel is alluded to
by Shakespeare (I King Henry VI, I, 3). While other cities of the East,
which were at one time of equal importance, now mostly exist as mounds
in the desert, Damascus is still what it was--the capital of Syria.
The following are some of the numerous Biblical references to Damascus:
Gen. xiv, 15; II Sam. viii, 5 ("David slew of the Syrians two and
twenty thousand men"); II Kings vi, vii, viii, xiii, xiv, xv, xvi; I
Chron. xviii, 5 (accounts of battles between the Kings of Judah and
Israel and the Kings of Damascus); Isa. xvii; Amos i, 3; Jer. xlix, 23
(prophetical).
St. Paul was converted on his way to Damascus (Acts ix) in which
connection see also II Cor. xi, 32 and Acts ix.
In A.D. 1860 a frightful massacre of Christians took place here. By
nightfall on July 9th of that year the whole of the Christian Quarter
was in flames, the water supply cut off and the inhabitants hemmed in
by a circle of steel. As night advanced fresh marauders entered the
city and joined the furious mob of fanatics, who now, tired of plunder,
began to cry out for blood. All through that awful night and the whole
of the following day, the pitiless massacre went on. It is probable
that not a Christian would have remained alive but for the untiring
energy of Abd-el-Kader (himself a Mohammedan of great renown, but a
just man) with his faithful Algerines, who, in 1847, mustering only
2,500 men had completely defeated the army of the Emperor of Morocco
60,000 strong.
Abd-el-Kader at once set to work rescuing the Christians. Hundreds were
escorted to his house, fed, comforted and forwarded to the castle,
where, finally, nearly 12,000 were collected. Many also reached the
British Consulate. The Mohammedans, furious at being baulked of their
prey, turned their attentions to Abd-el-Kader, who, however, charged
into their midst and said: "Wretches! is this the way you honour the
Prophet!... You think you may do as you please with the Christians, but
the day of retribution will come. Not a Christian will I give up, they
are my brothers. Stand back or I will give my men the order to fire".
Not a man among them dared to raise a voice against the renowned
champion of Islam, and the crowd dispersed. British and French
intervention prevented a general massacre throughout Syria, and as a
result of European pressure an enquiry was held on the Damascus
outrage, with the result that the Military Governor of that city, three
Turkish officers and 117 individuals were shot. In addition about 400
of the lower class and 11 notables were condemned to imprisonment or
exile and £200,000 was proposed to be levied on the city. This was all
that could be obtained to the Christian community for a loss of 6,000
of their lives, 20,000 rendered homeless, and damage to their property
of at least £2,000,000._
[30] _See John ii, 1; also iv, 46, i, 47 and xxi, 2._
[31] _Tiberias was built by the Romans in A.D. 20. It is only once
mentioned in the Bible (John vi, 23). The modern town is much smaller
than was the ancient one. In 1837, half the population perished by a
great earthquake._
[32] _Lake Tiberias in the Old Testament was called the "Sea of
Chinnereth," and the "Sea of Chinneroth" (Numb. xxxiv, 11; Deut. iii,
17; Josh. xii, 3, xix, 35).
In the New Testament, in addition to the names in the text above, it is
called the "Lake of Gennesaret" from the plains of that name on its
north-western shore.
In the vicinity of the lake our Lord spent the larger portion of his
life, thus we find it continually mentioned throughout the four
Gospels. Some of the references are: Matt. iv, 13, viii, 24, 28, xiii,
1, xiv, 25, xvii, 27; John vi, 1, xxi; Luke v, 1. At that time other
towns stood upon its shores, including Capernaum and Bethsaida.
The lake is nearly seven miles across at its greatest width and its
extreme length is just over 12 miles._
TWO SNIPERS SHOT.
The next day we rested. Troops having been sniped at by natives, a party
from the Squadron was detailed to make an example of two offenders who had
been caught "red-handed". They were taken back to their village, and after
their crime had been publicly announced by an interpreter to the chief of
the tribe and the inhabitants, they were shot by the firing party. At 18.00
the Brigade moved off through the village along the main Damascus Road.
About nine miles out they were brought to a halt, as the Australians in
front were "held up". Later, they cleared the way, however, and we moved on
again at 04.30. A halt of half an hour was made at 07.00 to water in the
Nahr Mughaniye, after which part of the distance was covered at the trot.
At 11.30 the head of the column reached Khan-esh-Shiha, 14 miles south-east
of Damascus.
The enemy was seen on the Deraa Road, eight miles to the east, retreating
northward, evidently being chased by the 4th Division and Hedjaz troops
(Sherifians). It was reported by aeroplanes that the enemy force numbered
about 3,000, and the 14th Brigade (less the one regiment left at Haifa),
was allotted the task of cutting them off.
ALL SECTIONS DO GOOD EXECUTION.
Turning to the right across country, we proceeded at a fast pace through
fields of maize, gardens, orchards and then open country, arriving at the
hills north of Kiswe overlooking the Deraa Road. These we occupied, and
came in touch with the enemy who had sent out troops to attack. "No. 1"
Section was in action along with two squadrons of Deccan Horse. They only
reached their positions a few minutes in front of the enemy's flank guard,
who, owing to the steepness and rocky nature of the ground, was able to
approach within a few yards of the guns before being repulsed. During this
encounter it is much regretted that Pte. Staniland was killed.
"No. 2" Section was in action on the hill occupied by Brigade Headquarters
against the enemy, on a hill 600 yards to the front. After repulsing them,
they went round and occupied the hill, being joined shortly afterwards by
"No. 1" Section. Here an extensive view was obtained of the surrounding
country--in front, the Deraa Road from Kiswe village and station, on the
right (and beyond) and on the left the town of Damascus itself. It is
impossible to imagine a more beautiful sight than that which Damascus
presented from this spot, with its white minarets shining in the sunlight,
above the orange groves, vineyards and orchards which surround it. The
panorama was more particularly striking because of the contrast it
presented with the rest of the country we had previously seen. Some good
"shooting" was obtained from here, and the road was soon cleared. Parties
of the enemy could be seen making off eastward up the hills, but out of
range. The railway from Damascus runs parallel to the road, and beyond it.
A train which was then _en route_ was fired at, but it was also rather out
of range.
Just then the Turk got some field guns in action and sent a few shells over
at us, the very first one falling right on top of Brigade Headquarters;
fortunately, it did not hit anyone!
"No. 3" Section accompanied the Poona Horse on the left flank, and there
had some "practice" on the road, similar to the other sections. It was
joined there by "D" Sub-section, Nos. 1 and 2 having come out of action,
as there were no further "targets" for them. "No. 1" Section was now sent,
with one squadron of Deccan Horse, to occupy a hill south-east of Ashrafie
and due north of the position they had been holding. Machine-gun fire was
met with half a mile from the hill, but only one casualty was sustained
(Pte. Knott, wounded). The Deccan Horse charged the hill, and the section
came in action on the top of it, firing upon the retreating enemy and
silencing two of their machine-guns. The groves round Ashrafie, and the
road to the east, were "traversed" and a regiment of Turkish cavalry, which
was in the groves, at length sent a representative under a white flag
expressing a desire to surrender. Outposts were now put out, and the
remainder of the Brigade was moved up to Ashrafie and watered, staying in
that vicinity for the night.
Some splendid grapes and other minor luxuries were obtained at the village
and were very acceptable. That night the country was lit up for miles
around, and the air resounded with explosion after explosion by the
destruction of large ammunition dumps and other stores by the Turks. "No.
3" Section remained with the outposts, owing to the fact that two orderlies
who had been sent out were unable to find them.
In the early morning they obtained some splendid "targets" on the road,
against the tail of the Turkish force which was being driven along by the
4th Division and the Hedjaz troops. Close on their heels came Lieut.-Col.
Lawrence and Major Sinclair of the Sherifian Army in a car. They would have
been fired on, but for the fact that our own troops were in the danger
zone. Their identity was discovered in time, however, and Major Davies, who
had just arrived to see how "No. 3" Section was faring, went down and spoke
to them.
WE ENTER DAMASCUS.
At 07.30 the Australians having got round to the north of the city, our
Brigade moved through Ashrafie and groves eastward to the road, so
frequently referred to above, and marching along it, passed Meidan, at
09.30 entering Damascus--just 12 days from the start of operations, it
being then October 1st 1918. The approximate distance covered by the
Division was 215 miles, the distance due north of our old Line 104 miles.
Probably the town of Damascus proved to be disappointing to the majority of
the troops. It was interesting, certainly, but those who had been long in
the East did not find the expression "_Eastern splendour_" realised here,
any more than in other towns they had seen; such an idea would seem to
exist only in the minds of those who have never been "out East". The
natives, on the whole, seemed pleased to see us, the victors, and
frequently cheered, while Major L.F. St. J. Davies, M.C., at the head of
the Squadron (which followed the Poona Horse, the leading regiment, thus
being the first _white_ troops), was exceedingly popular.
[Illustration]
In accordance with the Arab custom, when rejoicing, rifles were fired in
the air--and this not with "blank" either!
Right through the centre of the town, the Brigade went, and camped in olive
groves along the main road, leading out to the north-east. The following
day it retraced its steps to the south of the town where it joined the
"C.-in-C.". He had with him the remainder of the Division and the
Australians. A triumphal entry into the town with the troops named was then
made.
The Machine-Gun Squadron, given the choice, went independently, straight to
their next camp at El Judeide, nine miles south-west of Damascus,
preferring to rest their horses. There they camped in orange groves, being
re-joined in the evening by the remainder of the Brigade, who had taken
part in the "show".
[Illustration]
AN AMUSING ADVENTURE.
Sec.-Lieut. Arden in the meantime was having an adventure "_on his own_".
When we were ordered back to El Judeide Mr. Arden was told to go into the
town and make all the purchases he could, so as to provide the Squadron
with a few comforts. He took with him Q.M.S. Fisher, the officers' mess
cook, and his groom. Having made his purchases, Mr. Arden, who had been
told that our destination was on the western road, looked it up on the map
and found a place marked there on the road to Beyrout about 10 miles
distant named "_El Jedeide_". Off they started for this _El Jedeide_. What
an experience they had! The road, which had just previously had the close
attention of the R.A.F. and other branches of the service, was littered
with dead and all kinds of enemy material. Along they continued, meeting
everywhere sights of wreck and confusion such as they had never previously
experienced.[33] Having reached Jedeide, but failing to find any trace of
British troops, they felt they had made a mistake. But it was too late to
return that night, and there was no help for it, they were forced to spend
the night there "and trust to luck".
Alternately taking post "on guard," some sleep was obtained. During the
night some troops passed by, which the small party feared was Turkish;
fortunately they turned out to be _French Colonial Troops_, whose dress is
somewhat in the Turkish fashion. At daylight the party retraced its steps
toward Damascus, and on the way, met a party of Australians. "What the
devil are you doing here?" the latter demanded. Upon hearing their story
the Australians ejaculated: "Why, do you know you have been for one night
the outpost of the British Army? No British soldier has been here before"!
But "all's well that ends well"; in due course, after minor adventures, Mr.
Arden's party reached the Squadron at EL JUDEIDE where, although he had to
run the gamut of chaff and banter, he was heartily welcomed!
FOOTNOTES:
[33] _It is a strange coincidence that a stream close to Jedeide is
called "El Maut," which means "Death"._
THE VALLEY OF LEBANON-RAYAK.
Henceforward, the 5th Cavalry Division was to become an entirely separate
force in its operations--indeed, at one time, its nearest support was 100
miles distant. Two days were spent at El Judeide, grazing horses and
cleaning guns and saddlery, before making another move forward. A force of
Turks some 7,000 strong was reported to be at Rayak Junction on the Beirut
Railway 30 miles north-east of Damascus, and on October 5th at 06.00 the
Division, with the 14th Brigade leading (the "S.R.Y." had re-joined from
Haifa), set off to deal with them. "No. 2" Section was with the advance
guard.
Across country to Sabura, they reached the main Beirut Road at Khan Dimez,
15 miles from Damascus, and halted for the night at Khan Meizebun a few
miles further on, with outposts out. Following the road to the bridge over
the river, south of Bar Elias (where a halt for water was made), the
advance guard ("No. 1" Section with it), was much surprised at the
extraordinary behaviour of the natives, who, sighting them from a distance,
galloped to meet them, firing their rifles in the air and shouting. Such
was their method of giving us welcome; it would have been their own fault
if they had been mistaken for the enemy, as they very nearly were!
At this point, turning north along a track up the Valley of Lebanon[34]
(many miles wide) the Brigade pushed on to Rayak. All along the road, right
from Khan Dimez, the previous day, there was evidence of the sorry plight
of the Turk. Hundreds of dead horses, dead bodies (stripped by the
villagers), broken wagons and even overturned "gharries" strewed the route.
FOOTNOTES:
[34] _"Lebanon" means "White," probably employed because of the snow
which can be seen most of the year on the Lebanon range of mountains,
on the western side of the valley (see Jer. xviii, 14). Lebanon is
stated in the Bible to be on the northern border of the Promised Land
(Deut. i, 7, iii, 25, xi, 24; Josh. i, 4, ix, 1). King Solomon's palace
and temple were built of cedars and firs from Lebanon (I Kings ix, 19),
also the second temple (Ezra iii, 7). Other references to Lebanon are
Josh. xi, 17, xiii, 2; Judges iii, 1; Deut. iii, 25; II Chron. ii, 2;
Psalms xxix, 5, xcii, 12; Isa. xiv, 8, xxxv, 17, xl, 16; Solomon's Song
iv, 8, 11, 15._
AN UNWELCOME WELCOME.
Upon our approaching Rayak, as if at a word of command, suddenly, a
tremendous burst of rifle fire broke out! This outburst, however, proved
to be merely a demonstration of the population's welcome! Rayak, and some
of the villages in this district, are Christian,[35] and it may well be
imagined that the population was simply delirious with joy at the arrival
of the British.
As the Brigade marched through the streets on each side there were crowds
of people occupied in competing with each other to keep up the most rapid
fire! They were none too particular where their shots went either!! It was
rather difficult for us to feel pleased to see our new friends, when they
were letting off their rifles under our very noses! Fortunately there were
no casualties from the spent bullets, but there were several very narrow
escapes! The Turk, it seemed, had fled two days previously, and left at the
aerodrome the remains of no fewer than 30 aeroplanes which he had burnt,
together with large quantities of stores and rolling stock.[36]
An outpost line was established at Hosh el Ghanin, and "No. 1" Section
returned to the Squadron, which had encamped to the east of the town south
of the village of Maazi. October 7th-12th were spent in grazing, cleaning
up and resting (not much of the last). On Oct. 10th, the 13th and 14th
Brigades had moved on four miles to Tel esh Sherif, the 15th Brigade being
at Zahle, a fair-sized town on the slopes of the hills on the western side
of the plain.[37]
At this time enemy aeroplanes began to arrive, and drop bombs, killing, on
one occasion, some Gloucesters. A few days afterwards they were chased to
their lair by the R.A.F. and--_finished off_!
FOOTNOTES:
[35] _After the massacre of 1860, Lebanon was made an independent
province, governed by a Christian Pasha, nominated by the Sultan of
Turkey and approved by the European Powers._
[36] _Rayak is the junction of the railway from Beirut to Damascus and
Aleppo to Damascus._
[37] _Zahle is the largest town in Lebanon, and has a population of
about 16,000, nearly all of whom are Christians. During the massacre of
1860, it suffered terribly, being captured and burnt to the ground._
THE JOURNEY TO HOMS.
The 14th Brigade, following the 13th Brigade one day's march behind, moved
up to Baalbek on October 13th. Here we ascertained that the leading brigade
had had a similar reception to ours from the natives at Rayak. Passing
through the town and the ruins of the celebrated Roman Temple of the
Sun[38] on the left, we camped east of the Turkish barracks.
North of Baalbek our maps were found to be very inaccurate and unreliable,
the actual position of places often proving to be many miles away from
where shown; frequently roads followed quite a different route! In one
place a railway line was omitted altogether from the map, while in another,
a river marked thereon did not exist!
Rations, now being brought up by motor lorries nearly every day, were
issued to units as soon as they had camped for the night; mutton was the
principal meat ration, sheep being requisitioned locally, all along the
route, as also was forage.
The transport was now able to follow close behind the Brigade, and usually
arrived in "camp" shortly after the fighting troops. The "trek" now became
a matter of routine, marching usually starting each day at 07.00.
Permission was given for the Squadron to carry some of its guns on its
transport, in order to relieve the pack-animals.
October 14th--To Lebwe; watering from a stream on the way, and camping in
groves.
October 15th--To El Kaa. The Squadron camped against a fig-grove and figs
were purchased for everyone.
October 16th--To Kusseir. Camp on plain east of station.
October 17th--To Homs. When about half way, in front could be seen what
appeared to be a large camp of bell tents, but on getting nearer they
turned out to be merely a village of mud huts of that shape, and
whitewashed!
Afterwards many similar villages were met with, some of which were
whitewashed, some not. From hereabouts could be seen, away on the left, the
large Homs Lake, through which runs the River Orontes (Nahr el Asi). Two
miles south of the town of Homs an hour's halt was made to allow of
watering and feeding, then passing a ruined castle on an artificial mound,
we went through the centre of the town (which is an interesting old place,
and apparently well supplied with water),[39] to the main road out to the
north. Then, along a track to the north-west, we passed the 13th Brigade
camp (the 13th Brigade had been a day ahead from Tel esh Sherif), and
bivouacked at 14.45 on a nice piece of ground on the banks of the Orontes,
against the village of Deir Mati.
FOOTNOTES:
[38] _There are ruins of three temples at Baalbek--The Great Temple of
the Sun, Temple of Bacchus, and the Circular Temple, built about A.D.
220._
[39] _The Crusaders captured Homs in A.D. 1099. It is the ancient
Zobah, see II Sam. viii, 3, 5. The population is estimated at 65,000._
PART VI.
THE MARCH TO ALEPPO.
Would we stay here at Homs, or go still further? was the question uppermost
in the minds of all. The nearest troops were at Damascus 100 miles behind
us, and Aleppo, the next town of any importance, 100 miles ahead. We had
now covered 325 miles in 28 days, and a rest was much needed. The question
was soon decided for us! Three days were occupied in washing (men, clothes
and horses), grazing and cleaning saddlery. Then, at 07.00 on October 21st
we set out on our long journey, the 15th Brigade (it being their turn to
lead), having left the day previously. Marching was carried on in
accordance with the following table:--
Twenty minutes' trot, one hour's walk, 10 minutes' halt; and the following
were the day's marches:--
October 21st--To Er Rastan.
October 22nd.--To Hama.[40] Through the town and over the River Orontes
past the huge water wheels for which it is famous. (These wheels make a
loud humming noise and can be heard for miles. They are used for lifting
the water from the river, which is between high cliffs at this point, to
irrigate the surrounding country).
October 23rd.--To Khan Shaikhun.
October 24th.--To Ma'arit en Na'aman, camping east of the town. In the
afternoon rain came on and continued overnight. It was the first rain of
the season.
October 25th.--To Seraikin, camping against some groves south-east of town.
October 26th.--At 05.00 to Khan Tuman. The ground being suitable, the 14th
Brigade marched with its Squadrons in line of troop column on the right of
the road, and the 13th Brigade in the same formation on the left, while the
transport was in the centre, on the road itself.
Early in the afternoon, arriving at the banks of the Kuwaik-Su, the stream
that flows through Aleppo from the north, the 20TH MACHINE-GUN SQUADRON
off-saddled and settled down, the latest information being that they would
not be required till morning. However, orders were shortly received to
continue the advance to Aleppo! The guns were also to be withdrawn from the
transport. The Squadron therefore moved off with the Brigade about 17.00.
What had been happening in front, in the meantime? No definite news was to
hand, but an armoured-car tender came back for a fresh supply of "S.A."
ammunition for the 15th Brigade Machine-Gun Squadron, so evidently some
fighting had taken place. We had already heard that armoured cars, which
had for some time past been doing "yeoman service," had arrived before
Aleppo and scattered enemy patrols, and that an officer had been to the
town and demanded its surrender. He was received with every courtesy, but
the gallant commander _regretted_ that he was unable to surrender the city
as he had received orders from Constantinople to hold out at all costs, in
order to cover the retirement of the Mesopotamian forces! That was some
days previously. Later, we learnt that on the day in question, the 15th
Brigade, having arrived before the "city gates," the Turks withdrew after
destroying bridges, etc., and they (the Brigade) pushing on, met them on
the Alexandretta Road, put spurs to their horses, and charged them.
Now, it may be remarked, the Turk outnumbered the 15th Brigade _by at least
five to one_, and after the Brigade had passed through them, the enemy
realised their strength, and picking up the very rifles they had thrown
down, _fired at their backs_, Lieut.-Col. Holden and many other valuable
lives being lost in this manner!
But the Turk had really no fight left in him; his was a beaten army! He
continued his retreat, and the 15th Brigade took up an outpost-line north
and north-west of the city.
FOOTNOTES:
[40] _Hama (population about 80,000) is the Ancient Hamath, see I Kings
xviii, 34, xix, 13._
OUR BRIGADE REACHES ALEPPO.
The 14th Brigade heard of the capture of Aleppo when they arrived within a
few miles of it after dark.
Reaching the southern outskirts of the town, they entered it by the road
leading past the prison up to the Clock Tower. Leaving this on the right,
they turned sharply to the left (past the present Officers' Club) almost up
to Divisional Headquarters (_then already established_), where they bore to
the right, down to the bridge under the railway, at the French railway
station. The bridge had been blown up and a truck which was hanging down,
completely blocked the roadway, causing considerable delay, as the whole
Brigade had to lead their horses in "single file" up the steep embankment,
across the railway lines, and down the other side, in order to regain the
road. Two and a half miles along the Alexandretta Road the Brigade turned
to the left off the road, east of Bileramum, and halted for the night, it
being then 23.45.
The next morning, at 05.30, the 14th Brigade took over the outpost-line
from the 15th Brigade. The Deccan Horse and "No. 3" Section held the ground
west of the road. The Poona Horse and "No. 1" Section held the road itself
and east of it. An enemy rearguard patrol was seen retiring, and was
followed up by Sherifian troops, but nothing more was seen of the Turk.
During the morning the 13th Brigade took over the ground to the west of the
road, thus relieving the Deccan Horse and "No. 3" Section. "No. 2" Section
relieved "No. 1" Section.
At night, "No. 1" Section with "S.R.Y." and "No. 3" with Deccan Horse took
over the line. Members of the Squadron who took part in the operations from
Khan Tuman onwards, will remember that "No. 2" and "No. 3" Sections, owing
to shortage of personnel due to sickness (principally malaria or
dysentery), had only been able to man three guns each, instead of their
full complement of four, so that when "No. 2" Section was on duty "No. 3"
Section supplied a detachment to make them complete, "No. 2" doing the same
when "No. 3" was on duty, whilst in order to have all the guns in the
Squadron available in case of emergency, the Squadron headquarter troops
manned the remaining two guns. The next two days (October 28th and 29th)
the outpost-line was still held, and nothing in the way of active
operations occurred; men not on duty were granted passes to visit Aleppo.
ARMISTICE WITH TURKEY.
On the morning of October 30th, our Brigade was relieved by the "13th," and
moved eastwards across the railway, then northward to MUSLIMIE JUNCTION. No
enemy being encountered, an outpost line was established about two miles
north, "No. 1" Section with "S.R.Y." and "No. 2" (with one detachment of
"No. 3") with the Poona Horse. The latter section was entirely alone during
the day, as it was not considered necessary to have so many troops on duty
as at night time, and the Squadron being too far away to allow of the
Section doing the double journey with any degree of comfort, it remained
where it was.
At 12.00 on October 31st _an armistice with Turkey was proclaimed_, the
good news being communicated to the Sections on outpost duty by orderlies
from Headquarters. The Sections, however, had orders to remain at their
posts. November 4th brought the further news of an armistice with Austria,
and early the following day Indian prisoners, released by the Turks, began
to return to us through our outpost line.
It was at this time that Major Davies, our O.C. (who had not been well
since leaving the Jordan Valley, and for some time past had only been able
to keep out of hospital by dint of great strength of mind and powers of
endurance, in spite of the advice of his own, and medical, officers), was
at last sent to the hospital in Aleppo, which had been established by the
14th C.F.A. He had only been there a few days, however, when, to the grief
of all, he passed away in the clutches of that dread disease, malignant
malaria.
He was buried in the Aleppo Protestant Cemetery on November 11th 1918, in
the presence of the Divisional Commander, the Brigade Commander, the C.O.'s
of all the units in the Brigades, and many members of his Squadron, all of
whom felt how regrettable it was that he had not been spared to hear THE
GREAT NEWS which we all then felt was so close at hand, and towards the
obtaining of which he had, ever since the outbreak of the War, contributed
so much energy and ability. The "H.A.C." kindly provided us with a
gun-carriage upon which to convey him to his resting place, and Capt.
Powell, C.F., the Brigade Chaplain, officiated.
NEARING THE END.
As those who had been present at the ceremony were waiting for the motor
lorries to take them back to Muslimie the momentous news was received that
_an armistice had been signed with Germany!_
It was universally felt to be a sad coincidence that he who had come
through the war from start to finish should thus have been laid low at the
very end of his labours. That Major St. John Davies, M.C., was undoubtedly
a great leader and very considerate of his men's welfare, was universally
known. There can be no doubt that he would have had a successful career,
had he been spared, in any profession he might have chosen.
Malaria was taking its toll, and a few days later Signaller Boak, who had
been the Squadron's Brigade Orderly throughout the last operations, fell
another victim to its clutches. He was buried in the Military Cemetery,
Aleppo, a number of his comrades being present at the graveside.
AFTER THE ARMISTICE.
Capt. R.H. Fairbairns, M.C., now took command, with Lieut. A.O.W. Kindell
as Second-in-Command. The strength of the Squadron was now four officers,
145 O.R.'s, 116 riding horses, 77 draught mules, 36 pack animals, and, as
no reinforcements had reached the Squadron since the start of operations on
September 19th, these figures represented a loss of two officers, 67
O.R.'s, 65 riding horses, three draught mules and seven pack animals.
Considering that the Squadron had covered 450 miles in 43 days, in addition
to the fighting, the loss in animals (especially draught) was extremely
small, and results show that the Squadron has every reason to be proud of
its horsemastership.
The Sections were now withdrawn from "outpost" and the Squadron moved into
Muslimie station, where a certain number of buildings appeared to be
available, and capable of affording protection from the wet weather, which
showed signs of coming on.
Unfortunately, after clearing out several buildings, these had to be
relinquished to a regiment of the 15th Brigade, which came up to take over
the station. The Squadron, however, was allowed to use, as billets, some
old railway trucks which could not be moved, owing to the points being
blown up. It was expected, at one time, that the Division would proceed to
Alexandretta, on the coast, for the winter, but this did not eventuate.
[Illustration: Muslimie Junction Station.]
About this time we had to say farewell to our old friend, Capt. Powell,
C.F., the Brigade Padre, who was compelled to go into hospital after
repeated attacks of malaria, and was eventually invalided home to England.
Capt. Powell had been with the Brigade since its original formation as the
"7th Mounted," and was a great favourite amongst all ranks.
The following brief record of the events and doings of the Squadron during
its long spell of duty at Aleppo (and Muslimie) may be interesting to some
members:--
1918.
Nov. 13--"No. 3" Section absorbed in "Nos. 1 and 2".
" 15--Inspection of horses by Corps Commander.
" 17--Memorial service in main station building.
" 18--Headquarters attached to "Nos. 1 and 2" Sections.
" 22--Inspection of Transport by Divisional Commander.
" 28--Inspection of horses by G.O.C. Brigade.
" 30--Ration strength: 4 officers, 122 O.R.s, 208 animals.
Dec. 4--Divisional Commander inspects horses.
" 5--Preparation for visit of "C.-in-C.".
" 9--Capt. J.B. Oakley and Lieut. E.P. Cazalet, with 60 reinforcements,
arrive from base. Capt. Oakley becomes Second-in-Command of
Squadron.
" 10--Four officers and 80 O.R.'s proceed to Aleppo mounted for--
" 11--"C.-in-C.'s" procession, and return to camp.
" 17--Thanksgiving Day.
" 24--"B" Echelon (and donkeys) arrive.
" 25--Anthrax in Brigade.
" 27--One case of anthrax in Squadron.
1919.
Jan. 3--Inspection of Transport by Divisional Commander.
" 4--"No. 1" Sub-section proceeds to Aleppo with two troops "S.R.Y." to
escort "C.-in-C." by train to Jerablus.
" 6--Return of party.
" 20--Short range practice.
" 25--Classes opened in Brigade for shorthand, engineering, lectures,
etc.
" 27--Coalminers leave for "demob.".
" 28--G.O.C. Brigade inspects horses.
Feb. 1--Classification of horses: A.30, B.33, C.II.42, D.8.
" 3--Divisional Commander inspects animals and first line transport.
" 11--Orders to move to Aleppo. Dismounted party with surplus equipment
proceeds by train.
" 12--Squadron moves to Aleppo.
" 14--Corps Commander visits lines during stables.
" 19--Sec.-Lieut. Arden appointed Brigade Educational Officer and
promoted Captain whilst so employed.
" 20--Move to old 19th Squadron camp.
" 23--Twenty-two farmers proceed "homeward" ("demob." camp at Kantara).
" 26--Divisional Commander visits lines during stables.
" 27--Eleven O.R.'s to "Homeward".
" 28--An Armenian massacre; Squadron proceeds to centre of town, four
guns in position, one sub-section ("D") to Brigade Headquarters
for night.
Mar. 1-3--Fifteen O.R.'s "demob.".
" 6--Move to camp in the centre of Aleppo.
" 11--Twenty-seven horses evacuated to M.V.S.
" 17--Farewell parade to the G.O.C., Desert Mounted Corps, Lieut.-Gen.
Sir H.G. Chauvel, K.C.B., K.C.M.G.
" 19--Fifteen reinforcements arrive from base.
" 20--Twenty horses and 26 mules to Corrals (paddocks formed by the
Division to take the surplus animals resulting from
demobilization).
" 27--One sub-section short-range practice.
" 29--Eleven horses and 32 mules to Corrals.
" 31--Squadron strength: four officers, 124 O.R.'s, 185 animals.
Apr. 1--G.O.C. Brigade inspects horses.
" 3--One sub-section short-range practice.
" 15--"Stand-to" 05.30-08.00, one sub-section mounted, six guns on
limbers.
" 16--Ditto (as precaution against further massacre of the Armenians).
" 22--Practice scheme with Brigade.
" 23--Issue of summer clothing.
" 30--Divisional Horse Show.
May 1-2--Ditto. Squadron won Special Prize with pack mule "Pansy," and had
one limber and G.S. wagon in final; Pte. Carruthers also
qualified for jumping finals.
" 31--Squadron strength: four officers, 75 O.R.'s, 189 horses and
mules.
June 18--Inspection of horses and transport by Divisional Commander.
" 30--Peace celebrations. The Squadron, reduced to the strength of one
sub-section, took part in "march past". Strength: three officers,
48 O.R.'s, 30 horses, 23 mules.
[Illustration]
The following, by a member of the Squadron, is typical of the life in the
ARMIES OF OCCUPATION. He says:--
"Although these (the Armies of Occupation) officially have only
existed since February 1st 1919, they have in reality, on certain
fronts, been in operation since November 1918. The 5th Cavalry
Division, pressing hard on the heels of the flying Turk, entered
Aleppo on the evening of 26th October last. Trek-tired and weary,
the Fighting Division under Major-Gen. H.J.M. MacAndrew, C.B.,
D.S.O., wound its lengthy column over the Kuwaik-Su Bridge and
entered the ancient Turkish stronghold. Some of the units were at
once stationed close to the town, taking over the barracks and vast
stores and depots vacated by the enemy, whilst some of us, not so
lucky, were pushed forward to Muslimie, the important junction of
the Mesopotamian and Palestine Railways; and there formed a line of
outpost defence, just 300 miles due north of the line held six
weeks previously.
"LOW VITALITY OF TROOPS.
"On the 4th November the Armistice with Turkey was signed, and
shortly after several cavalry units were sent still further north
to Killis, Jerablus (on the Euphrates), and Aintab, and the outpost
line near Aleppo was thus no longer required. Now followed a period
even more difficult to put up with than actual war itself. A trek
of over 400 miles in a space of two months, following that
nightmare of a sojourn in the Jordan Valley, had reduced the
vitality of both man and horse to a very low ebb, and consequently
the sick roll in both cases was large. Malignant malaria contracted
in the valley took toll of many brave lives, and an outbreak of
anthrax, coupled with debility, caused havoc among the horses.
"LIFE AT MUSLIMIE.
"Railway communication not being completed, and roads rendered
unfit by heavy rains, delayed the passage of canteen stores, and
the rations had perforce to consist chiefly of mutton caught,
killed and eaten the same day. Shall we ever forget the taste of
it? Of course, we _did_ get goat sometimes as a variation. Xmas Day
was on the horizon and no hope of any puddings, but most units were
able to produce some kind of Xmas dinner, and a pudding concocted
from local ingredients. Followed special trains to the 'Palmtrees'
Concert Party in Aleppo, and a fox hunt on New Year's Day. Whist
drives and 'sing-songs' helped to break the deadly monotony of the
long winter evenings, and during the day there was plenty to occupy
one; roads to make in the mud, stones to be carted, buildings and
shelters erected, and more than all, the attempt to get a little of
the dirt off one's animal, and a little more flesh on his bones.
After the 130 degrees or so of heat (in the shade) in the Jordan
Valley, the cold in Syria, during the winter, seemed intense, and
ice had frequently to be broken before the morning wash. The snow
on the Taurus Mountains was not reassuring either, and firewood and
coal became almost unobtainable.
[Illustration]
"SEEING THE NEW YEAR IN.
"The only beverages obtainable at this time were native wines and
army rum, and as the former consisted chiefly of sweet Alicante,
methylated cognac and Arak, one became quite a connoisseur of the
latter and the different methods of making rum punch.
"One Quartermaster-Sergeant in particular made quite a reputation
for himself as a punch mixer, and I know that among his favourite
ingredients were oranges, lemons, figs, condensed milk, cloves,
nutmeg, pepper, ginger, boiling water.
"New Year's Eve saw (and heard) an officers' dinner, and all those
from far and near flocked to a small building near the station, and
under the able Presidency of popular Lieut.-Col. Wigan, of the
Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry, and the direction of a Yorkshire vet.
and a Captain of the Deccan Horse, the Old Year (and in some cases
two Old Years) was seen out amid a score of toasts, the fumes of
aromatic punch, and the strain of a buckshee piano. Personally, I
crossed eight sets of Bagdad railway track in three strides.
"THE BRIGADE RACE MEETING.
"In February the 14th Cavalry Brigade held a Race Meeting on a
short grass track of two and a half furlongs, discovered hiding
among the rocks. A 'totalisator' run by an Australian in the
interest of the Brigade, was run on sound lines, and if your horse
won you got your money back and a little over, which isn't the case
with some totalisators that we know of! Several 'scurries' and mule
races took place, and everyone enjoyed the fun thoroughly,
especially the mules. The machine-gun element sprung a surprise on
all by winning the Grand Prix, open to the 5th Cavalry Division,
with 'Nobbler,' a horse which was to have run at Gaza in 1918, but
was 'scratched' owing to lameness. 'Lion,' a mobilisation horse of
the Sherwood Rangers, and a prime favourite, came in second, and
both horses were ridden at 11-7.
[Illustration: Aleppo.
Squadron camp in the town.]
"THE FIRST ALEPPO MEETING.
"In March the 14th Cavalry Brigade took over its Aleppo quarters
from the 13th, and the latter were moved many miles to the north,
where they also held a local meeting. Capt. Fraser of the R.H.A.
was now given the task of turning a waste piece of ground on the
western side of the town into a racecourse, and, by dint of much
hard work and begging of materials, he completed a quite good
course of four furlongs. The Royal Engineers erected a grand stand
of sandbags, and a totalisator. The first Aleppo Race Meeting was
held on March 8th, and a goodly representative gathering of the
army and civilian inhabitants of Aleppo assembled. After this, race
meetings were held regularly every alternate Saturday throughout
the summer. The course was laid on fairly level ground, and at the
start of the season had a thin covering of grass, which,
unfortunately, soon was burnt up by the fierce sun and worn bare by
frequent use, being replaced afterwards by litter. Though at first
only a four furlong 'scurry,' the course has now been extended to
eight furlongs, and laid much in the same fashion as Kempton Park
with a 'straight' of four furlongs and the remainder an oval. One
drawback to this course is that it crosses a high road in two
places. On race days mounted military police are stationed outside
the rails to keep order, and British troops are on duty in the
enclosures keeping the gates, serving refreshments, and assisting
in the totalisator. The latest attraction has been the admirable
rendering of popular music by the Band of the Queen's Bays.
"INCIDENTS AT THE RACES.
"Of amateur jockeys and gentlemen riders there have been plenty;
among the most successful being Lieut.-Col. Vincent, R.A.S.C.,
Major Walker, R.A., Capt. Sir Robin Paul, Lieut. Dowling. We much
missed Lieut. Stanley Wooten, of the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry, who
has hitherto been such a popular rider in the E.E.F. Major-Gen. Sir
Harry MacAndrew, C.B., D.S.O., Lieut.-Gen. Sir H.G. Chauvel,
K.C.B., K.C.M.G., have all, in turn, shown much interest in the
races, and Gen. Geaffar Pasha, the Military Governor of Aleppo, and
successor to Gen. Shukri Pasha (generally known to us as 'Sugary
Parsnips'), often enters one of his beautiful Arab chargers in the
Arab class races, and is often successful. His jockey rides in the
colours of the Hedjaz Army, red, white, black and green.
[Illustration]
"But the horses are now paraded in the paddock, and we must go and
inspect them. This is an Arab race, and all sorts of conditions of
men and horses are in the ring, and a terrific hubbub is going on.
Some of the ponies are well groomed, and fit, others thin and badly
cared for. Some have long unkempt manes and tails, others are
bedecked with beads and shells and long scarlet tassels. Saddle
cloths of brilliant hue are numerous, while the riders are a
curious and a motley assembly. Some bare-foot, some booted and
spurred (and a spur is a spur with an Arab, something after the
implement mother marks the pastry with). Others are in long flowing
robes with the burnous and kafeia of the Bedouin flying in the
wind, some with knives, some with swords, some with pistols, and
some with sticks, and lastly two are dressed like real jockeys, and
they know it, and show it too! Just now there is a little of chaos
as half the competitors are evidently of the opinion that they
should go round the paddock in one direction, while the other half
wishes to go the reverse. Wherefore there is loud shouting and much
gesticulating, with many 'Waheds' and 'Achmeds' and 'Macknoons'.
"ALL THE WORLD AND HIS WIFE THERE.
"But there, the bell goes, and the starters begin to file out of
the gate as they struggle out of the seething mass. Away down the
course to the starting point; and here the starter will no doubt
have his work cut out. A variegated crowd is lining the rails on
the opposite side of the track. Turbaned Abduls and Yussefs, boys
and little girls, men and donkeys, fruit-sellers, arabiyehs,
camels, all in brightest colours and a pandemonium of noise. Stray
pi-dogs are continually being warned off the course, and venerable
Arab Sheiks who don't understand, and start for a nice walk along
the wide grass track. Yes, there is plenty for the smart military
policemen to do, and their burnished swords and bright shoulder
epaulets flash in the sun as they 'chivvy' the crowd out of danger.
In the officers' enclosure there are many strange types. Abdul
Achmed Yussef is there with a scimitar in one hand like the Sultan
of Turkey, and a huge white umbrella in the other hand, and on his
head he wears a red tarbush. _Iskanderianabedian_ is there with his
fat wife, and two fat daughters, all the latter in black silk gowns
and white silk stockings, and if the girls' ankles aren't as thick
as my calves, call me a liar, but this is the Turkish style of
beauty you know. The better bred the fatter is their standard, and
very nice too. Arab troops and Arab gendarmerie in their quaint
spiked head-gear; while hundreds of British staff officers (where
they come from, or what they do I don't know), with tabs of all
colours (and as one officer remarked to me only the other day,
'When the blue and green tabs appear it's time to capture another
town'!) And a sprinkling of combatant officers, English sisters,
French attachés, and American Red Cross workers, represent the
western world.
"THE RACING.
"Now we go and place our solitary 10 pt. on a promising pony ridden
by one of the two 'real' jockeys. It is all we can spare, as the
Field Cashier happens to be away (as usual). Suddenly a bugle
blows, and we hear the usual cry 'They're off!' But they aren't; at
least two are and there's no stopping those two. No, they mean to
carry on now; neck and neck they go, and soon they are round the
distant corner, and thundering past the four furlong point. On they
come shouting for Allah and Mohammed, and standing high in their
stirrups they wave their sticks madly in the air, yelling at each
other with all the frenzy of the faithful followers of El Islam! A
dead heat they reach the post and gallop wildly on, to end up
somewhere on the banks of the Kuwaik Su!
"Now, the bugle goes again, and the start has really begun this
time, the field getting away something like a compact lump. But
soon they string out, and we notice our two orthodox men well in
rear. This time the race is even more exciting, and as the post is
neared the yells of defiance, the flowing robes, the waving arms
and the bump, bump, bump of the riders brings pictures to the mind
of the fiery followers of Saladin, or an attack by the Arabs in the
'Tragedy of the Korosko'.
"HOME AGAIN!
"Well, it's over at last, and our 'choice' and the other smartly
dressed jockey are miles behind. But that doesn't matter as I hear
the winner is only paying out 5 pt. Oh! that 'Tote'! Six races are
the usual number run; and then the sun sinks behind the Taurus
Mountains, the shadows fall long and blue, and the high-up Citadel,
flanked by mosques and minarets, becomes bathed in the orange light
of the setting rays. As the last horse is led in, the crowd flows
back towards the town, and then the arabiyehs crack their whips,
the camels grunt, the staff start up their motor cars, and the
combatant officers with light hearts and lighter pockets mount
their chargers, and wend their way back to camp.
"Such is an Aleppo Race Meeting, and so do we attempt to pass the
monotony of an enforced exile in a barren and a dreamy land.
"Very soon the rain will come, and then the mud, and then we shall
look for the Christmas parcels, British books, local papers, and
more than all--that long-promised holiday for the
Army-of-Occupation-Volunteer!!".
[Illustration]
PART VII.
Epilogue.
The following extract from a letter from an officer at Aleppo to a former
"O.C." of the Squadron (now demobilized) will perhaps serve as a fitting
close to the record of the service of the 20TH MACHINE-GUN SQUADRON.
"Aleppo.
"4-10-19.
"Dear.....
"Just a line to let you know how we are getting on. The 14th B'de
has been abolished and several Units disbanded. The Cadre of the
Sherwoods also, who are now in the 13th Brigade, is going home, but
there are only a few of them to go to U.K. The 20th M.G.S. is to be
disbanded, and the personnel to go to the 19th Squadron. We got
orders yesterday to wind up the '20th' and send the personnel to
the '19th' and I have to report to the 10th Cav. Bde. at Homs. What
for I don't know yet. One consolation, all the men but five are now
eligible for U.K.!! Well, well, it can't be helped, and perhaps it
is as well we were broken up now as the men will perhaps be home by
Xmas if the Strike is over.
"Hope you are enjoying 'Civvy' life.
"Yours, &c.,
".....".
The following are extracts from THE TIMES of the 24th July 1919 and the
DAILY MAIL of 28th July 1919. They will not be read without sincere regret
by all those members of the 20th "M.G.S." who had previously served in the
5th Cavalry Division.
GENERAL SIR HENRY MACANDREW.
Major-General Sir Henry John Milnes Macandrew, K.C.B., D.S.O., died
from heart failure, resulting from burns, on the 16th inst. in
Syria, where he was serving in command of the 5th (Indian) Cavalry
Division.
A son of the late Sir Henry Macandrew, of Aisthorpe, Inverness, he
was born on August 7th 1866, and joined the 2nd Batt. Cameron
Highlanders in 1884, being transferred to the Lincoln Regiment two
years later. Entering the Indian Army in 1888, he joined the 5th
Cavalry, to which regiment he belonged until his promotion to
major-general in 1917, and of which he was honorary colonel when he
died.
He had extensive staff experience, being a graduate of the staff
college and having spent about one-third of his service in the
Indian Army on the staff. He went through the Tirah Campaign as
brigade transport officer in 1897-98 (dispatches and frontier medal
with two clasps), and he served through the South African War in
various capacities, gaining the South African medal and four
clasps, the King's medal and two clasps, and the D.S.O., and being
twice mentioned in dispatches. He was brigade-major to the
Inspector-General of Cavalry in India in 1903-5.
He served in France on the staff of the Indian Cavalry divisions
from 1914 till 1917, when he was promoted major-general and
received command of the 5th Cavalry Division. His services in
France secured four mentions in dispatches and the K.C.B. He
proceeded to Palestine with the Indian Cavalry Corps, and served
under General Allenby in his successful advance from the Egyptian
border to Aleppo. The division under his command was prominent in
these operations, and the general was mentioned by Sir Edmund
Allenby in dispatches for his excellent services.
General Macandrew was well known as a rider across country and on
flat. He earned the reputation of being one of the best and most
dashing of our cavalry leaders in the war, and his untimely death
is a severe loss to the Indian Army. He married, in 1892, the
youngest daughter of Mr. H.R. Cooper, J.P., of Ballindalloch,
Stirlingshire, and leaves a young daughter.
From "The Times," July 24th 1919.
* * * * *
GENERAL MACANDREW.
KILLED BY PETROL ON TUNIC.
CAIRO, Friday.
Major-Gen. H.J. Macandrew, commander of the Fifth Division,
stationed at Aleppo, died a tragic death last week. His tunic had
been cleaned with petrol and was hanging in a room to dry when the
general, wearing pyjamas, entered smoking a cigarette. The petrol
vapours exploded, burning General Macandrew so severely that he
died in hospital a week later.--Reuter.
It is possible that too much petrol was used or that the heat of
the sun vaporised the petrol and thus rendered it so easily
inflammable. An exactly similar accident is not recorded in our own
climate.
From "Daily Mail," July 28th 1919.
FRENCH IN SYRIA.
BRITISH WITHDRAWN.
Cairo, Dec. 10th 1919.
In accordance with arrangements with the Government concerned a
change has been made in the military administration of Syria (north
of Arabian Desert, including Palestine and Cilicia), the Valley of
Adana, and Tarsus (which since the Allied occupation have been
under the Commander-in-Chief of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force).
The administration of Cilicia and the area known as "occupied enemy
territory (west)," including Lebanon, Beirut, Tripoli, and
Alexandretta, has been handed over to General Gouraud, the French
High Commissioner.
The British military posts in the Marash, Aintab, Urfa, and
Jerablus areas, where the administration remains under the Turkish
authorities, have also been relieved by the French.
The territory known as "occupied enemy territory (east)" including
Damascus, Homs, Hamah, and Aleppo, has been handed over to the Arab
administration under the Emir Feisul (whom the Syrians welcome).
All the British troops have been withdrawn from Syria, and the
military administration of Syria by the British Commander-in-Chief
has ceased.--Reuter.
[Illustration]
Names and Addresses of the Members of the 20th Machine-Gun Squadron.
NOTE:--_A copy of this list has been sent by post to the address of every
member for verification before going to Press._--AUTHOR, _1st June 1920_
Officers.
Major L.F. ST. JOHN DAVIES, M.C., Antringham Rectory, North Walsham,
Norfolk (Died 10-11-18).
Major R.H. FAIRBAIRNS, M.C., 63 Alleyn Park, Dulwich, S.E.
Capt. E. DAVIES, c/o Messrs. Cox & Co., 16 Charing Cross, S.W.
Capt. D. MARSHALL, M.C., Margaret Place, Dollar, Fife.
Capt. J.B. OAKLEY, Grimston Hill, York.
Capt. F.A. SPENCER, M.C., c/o Messrs. Sir C.R. McGrigor, Bart., & Co.
Panton St., S.W.
Lieut. E.P. CAZALET, Brunswick Rd., Sutton, Surrey.
Lieut. E.B. HIBBERT, "Babworth," Watson Ave., Mansfield, Notts.
Lieut. A.O.W. KINDELL, Rolle Cottage, Bourne End, Bucks.
Lieut. G.M. KING, York House, Headroomgate Rd., St. Annes-on-Sea, Lancs.
Lieut. C.D. MACMILLAN, Brackenhurst Hall, Southwell, Notts.
Lieut. A.G.P. MILLMAN, Liskeard, Cornwall.
Lieut. H.A. PRICE, M.C., "Homewood," Branksome Ave., Bournemouth (killed).
Lieut. R. RAYNOR, Jingewick Rectory, Bucks.
Lieut. F.R. WILGRESS, c/o The Bank of Montreal, Waterloo Place, London.
Second-Lieut. J.K.W. ARDEN, "Mayhills," nr. Petersfield, Hants.
Second-Lieut. J.W. CUMMER, 1221 13 Avenue, West Calgary Alta, Canada.
Squadron Sergeant Majors.
FISHER, H., 65 Crosby Rd., West Bridgford, Notts.
FLEET, T., M.M., 32 Trinity St., Dorchester, Dorset.
JACKSON, J.B., M.M., "Denstone," Rocester, Staffs.
LARWOOD, E., D.C.M., Thorpe Farm, Shadwell, Thetford.
PHILLIPS, H., 21 Sutherland Rd., Bow, London, E.
SALTER, E.G., 16 Grays Rd., Henley-on-Thames, Oxon.
Squadron Quartermaster Sergeants.
CRISP, J., 14 Spencer Rd., Mitcham, Surrey.
FISHER, H., _See_ under S.S.M.'s.
HARRISON, N.M., Pocklington, Yorks.
Staff Farrier Sergeant.
ROBERTSON, T., 85 Bo'ness Rd., Grangemouth, Scotland.
Sergeants.
ANDERSON, W. (Farrier), Steetley Farm, Whitwell, nr. Mansfield, Notts.
BUCKINGHAM, T., Lower Hayford, nr. Weedon, Northants.
COLLETT, J.H., High Rd., Vange, Essex.
CONUEL, T. (Transport), "Elmton," Chesterfield, Derby.
DUGUID, L.W.J., 42 Blenheim Gardens, Reading.
FELL, R.O. (Transport), 14 King's Avenue, Rhyl, N. Wales.
GAGE, L., Camden Stores, Lower Bristol Rd., Bath.
GRICE, T., M.M., 70 Olbury Rd., Smethwick, Staffs.
HAWKINS, E.W., M.M., 26 Springfield Rd., Gorleston-on-Sea, Suffolk.
HAZLEHURST, C.E., Low St., Carlton, nr. Worksop, Notts.
HOLT, F.F., 18 Sandhill St., Worksop, Notts.
KIRKE, C. (Orderly Room), 6 Curzon St., Derby.
KEETLEY, H., S. Megby, nr. Mansfield, Notts.
KNOWLES, G., "Tredethy," Bodmin, Cornwall.
LEWIS, R., "Craiglea," Penparke, Aberystwith, N. Wales.
MORDEN, W.H., 89 Ashburton Avenue, Addiscombe, nr. Croydon, Surrey (died at
Havre, 4th March 1919, _en route_ for home).
O'NEILL, W., Barford Cottages, Churt, nr. Farnham, Surrey.
PARKER, W.R. (Farrier), Hermitage St., Crewkerne, Somerset.
PEADON, S., 103 Nottingham Rd., Long Eaton, Derby.
PEARSE, T., Kingham, Chipping Norton, Oxon.
POTTS, C., 9 Castle Hill Square, Worksop, Notts.
POUNTAIN, J., 79 Derby St., Derby.
RAMSAY, G. (Orderly Room), 94 Highfields, Coalville, nr. Leicester.
ROBERTS, C, 319 Ropery Rd., Gainsborough, Lincs.
ROUSE, F., Park Rd., Mansfield, Woodhouse, Notts.
SNEDDON, H., West Calder, Midlothian.
THOMPSON, S.C. (Transport), 11 Canterbury Rd., West Croydon, Surrey.
WRIGHT, W.J.P., 3 Beacon Hill Rd., Newark, Notts.
Corporals and Lance-Corporals.
ADCOCK, H., 34 York Terrace, Gainsborough, Lincs.
BAGGS, F., Brook House, West Malling, Kent.
BARRATT, J.G., Ashby Rd., Loughboro', Linc.
BARTHORPE, F., 2 Ebenezer Place, Gainsboro', Lincs.
BITCHILY, H., 37 Park Terrace East, Hors ham, Sussex.
BILHAM J. (Signaller Corporal).
BINNINGTON, C. (Signaller Corporal), "Beaconsfield," Anlaby Rd., Hull.
BRADLEY, W., 46 Healey St., Nottingham.
CARR, F., Doncaster (killed at El Tahta).
CHINNERY, T.A. (Signaller Corporal), 7 Ashmead Rd., St. John's, Lewisham,
S.E.
CLARK, G.H., Syston, Leicester.
FAIRLEY, J., 2 Brandfield St., Edinburgh.
FOSTER, G. (Signaller Corporal), Sgt. 3rd M.G. Sqdn., Risalpur, N.W.F.P.,
India.
FOX, P.W., Rollerton Mill Farm, R.S.O., Notts.
FRANKLIN, R.H., 13 Hyde Park Corner, Leeds.
FULLER, E.J., 2 Surrey St., Luton, Beds.
GALWAY, L., 54 Firgrove Rd., Freemantle, Southampton.
GAVAGAN, T., The Bazaar, Shrewton, Wilts.
GILL, H., 98 St. Anne's Well Rd., Nottingham.
GREEN, A., 16 Maria St., West Bromwich, Staffs.
GORING, A.C. (Signaller Corporal), 92 Coleridge St., Hove, Sussex.
HALEY, J., 3 Queen Victoria St., Wakefield, Yorks.
HOLMES, C. (S/Smith Corporal), 56 Mar Hill Rd., Carlton, Notts.
HUGHES, J., Queens Walk, Nottingham.
HUTCHINGS, F.G., "Maesgwyn," Ton Pentre, Glamorgan.
INESON, C., 20 Primrose Lane, off Burton Rd., Leeds.
IRELAND, C, "Bay Villa," Rosehill Rd., Ipswich.
JAMES, J., 76 Llangyfelach St., Swansea, S. Wales.
KIDD, S., 18 Aviary Mount, Armley, Leeds.
KINGS, E., 1 King Barton St., Gloucester.
KNIGHT, T.N., 29 Millicent Rd., West Bridgford, Notts.
LAWSON, A.P., 36 Castle Terrace, Nottingham.
LAYCOCK, F.J., 34 Highcroft Terrace, Brighton.
MARRIOTT, A., 65 Nottingham Rd., Stapleford, Notts, (killed).
MELLETT, C.W. (Saddler Corporal), 1 Park Terrace, Hillingdon Rd., Uxbridge,
Middlesex.
MOVERLEY, S., 26 Wharncliffe St., Hull.
NEAL, G., 16 Nova Scotia St., Failsworth, Lancs.
PALMER, C.P., 26 Drake St., Gainsborough, Lincs.
PATTERSON, W., 72 High St., Dumfries, Scotland.
ROE, A.E., 184 St. Paul's Rd., Canonbury, London, N.
ROGERS, L.B., 122 Hillaries Rd., Gravelly Hill, Birmingham.
ROSE, J.B., 44 Ball St., Wells Rd., Nottingham.
SEDDON, H., 54 The Avenue, Leigh, Lancs.
SHARPE, H.E., 138 Sherrard Rd., Forest Gate, Essex.
SMALL, F., Earls Common, nr. Droitwich, Worcester.
SMITH, C.C., West St., Oundle, Northants.
STOKES, H., Sir John Barleycorn Hotel, Cadnam, Southampton.
UFF, G., 28 St. James St., Walthamstow, London.
WADDLOW, J. (S/Smith Corporal), Marylands, Dogsthorpe, Peterborough.
WAKE, T., 14 Roxburgh Place, Heaton, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
WALSHAW, L.J., 56 Canon St., Belgrave, Leicester.
WILLMORE, A.C., 2B Lakefield Villas, Westbury Avenue, Wood Green, N.
WOODHOUSE, H., 11 Queen St., Whittingtonoor, Chesterfield, Derby.
Privates.
ACE, E., 7 Carlos St., Port Talbot, S. Wales.
ADAMS, C.W., Chapel Ash, Wolverhampton, Staffs.
ADDISON, A., High St., Navenby, Lines.
ALLEN, L., 20 Liddington St., Basford, Notts.
AMOR, L.G., Road Common, Southwick, Tunbridge Wells, Kent.
APPLEY, T., Station Rd., Laughton Common, Yorks.
ARNELL, F., 35 Fernie Avenue, Melton Mowbray, Leicester.
ARNOLD, H.T., 29 High St., Old Basford, Notts.
ASHALL, R., 5 Bolton St., Park Rd., St. Helens, Lancs.
ASHE, A.E., 5 Barley Close, Chippenham, Wilts.
ATTWATER, L. (Signaller), 22 Dryburgh Rd., Putney, S.W.
AVERILL, R., Fox and Hounds Hotel, Brynmenyn, Bridgend, Glam.
BAKER, A., The Row, Eltham, Kent.
BAKER, C.E.
BALL, F., 1 Gladstone Terrace, Bunbury St., Nottingham.
BARTRAM, R., Froy Moor Farm, Briston, Melton Constable, Norfolk.
BEESTON, T., The Green, Middleton, Winkworth, Derby
BOAK, G., 3 St. Thomas' Place, Stockport, Cheshire (died at Aleppo).
BOHN, A.
BOYLING, F., 1 Claughton Villas, Priory Rd., Dudley.
BRADY, W., 7 Mill St., Kingston-on-Thames.
BRAMALL, T., "Broom Cottage," Carlton, Worksop, Notts.
BRANTON, F., 306 High St., Walton, Felixstowe.
BRETT, J., Highland Cottages, Clavering Newport, Essex.
BROWNE, R.A., "Rosemoyne," Warwick Rd., Sutton, Surrey.
BUTCHER, P.F., 34 Nursery Rd., Chelmsford, Essex.
CANE, E.W., "The Hollies," Swallowfield, nr. Reading.
CAPEL, B., "Woodbine Cottage," Dysart, Fife (died 17th Oct. 1918).
CARDER, W., Raynes Park, nr. Braintree, Essex.
CARRUTHERS, W., Keppoch, Kardros, Dumbarton Scotland.
CASH, J., 17 Ard Lane, Kiverton Park, nr. Sheffield.
CHANTRY, P., 5 St. James' St., Grantham (died of wounds).
CHARTERS, H.J., "Loch Lomond," Cheltenham Rd., Southend-on-Sea.
CHATTERTON (Transport), Flixton, nr. Manchester.
CHILDS, J.L. (S/Smith), "Holly Bank," Bourne End, Bucks.
CHIPPENDALE, E., 30 Moore St., Nelson, Lancs.
CLARKE, F.J., Post Office, Harpole, Northants.
CLARKE, H., 450 Leeming St., Mansfield, Notts.
CLARKE, S.H., 112 Aberdeen Rd., Winson Green, Birmingham.
CLARKE, W.E., Middle St., Wickham Market, Suffolk.
CLARKE, W.J., 88 Whitley Wood Lane, Reading, Berks.
CLAY, T., 24 High St., Kimberley, Notts.
CLAYTON, H., 3 Rutland Terrace, Meadows, Nottingham.
CLUTTEN, E.G., Church House, Wangford, Suffolk.
COLES, A.R. (S/Smith), The Forge, Epwell, Banbury.
COLLIER, A., 12 Rice St., New Basford, Notts.
COMRIE, G.E.L., 15 Dixon Avenue, Crosshill, Glasgow.
COOK, J., 32 Glen St., Paisley, Scotland.
COOKE, H.S., 19 Rosina St., High St., Homerton, N.E.
COOPER, J.E., Easton Royal Farm, Pewsey, Wilts.
CORY, P.F.P., Morecombe Farm, Milton Damerell, Brandis Corner, Devon.
COWELL, E., 47 Earl St., Lower Broughton, Manchester.
COX, A., 17 Belvedere St., Mansfield, Notts.
COZENS, C.F., 27 Acres St., Wandsworth, S.W.
CRANE, W.R., 6 Seventh Row, Ashington, Northb.
CRANFIELD, F., 72 Farnley Rd., South Norwood, S.E.
CROSSMAN, H., Bridgwater, Somerset.
CUNDALL, C.F., 12 Milton St., Middlesbrough, Yorks.
CURTIS, J., 96 Merchant St., Bullwell, Nott.
CURTIS, W., Royston House, Misterton, Doncaster, Yorks.
DALE, A.M., Crawford Gardens, North Down, Cliftonville, Margate.
DAVIES, C.L., 32 Carlton Rd., Sneinton Market, Notts.
DAVIES, H.C.P. (S/smith), 13 Artesian Rd., Bayswater, W.
DEWEY, C., 192 Ealing Rd., South Ealing, W.
DIPLOCK, P.H., 8 Everest Rd., Eltham, Kent.
DOWNS, A.F., Alnwick Villas, Gedling Rd., Carlton, Notts.
DRANSFIELD, D.V., Newlands Farm, Mansfield, Notts.
DRANSFIELD, S.A., Newlands Farm, Mansfield, Notts.
DREW, T.C., 25 Hamilton Rd., Long Eaton, Notts.
DROUET, A.G.E., "Ajow House," Speedwell Rd., Egbaston, Birmingham.
DUNCAN, J.C., 1 Wellgate, Kirriemuir, Forfar.
EALDON, E., 11 Railway Terrace, Sittingbourne, Kent.
EDGAR, W.J., 73 Sugarfield St., Belfast.
EDWARDS, A., 44 Greaves Rd., Lancaster.
EDWARDS, A.E., 18 Prospect Terrace, King's Cross, N.
ELLAMS, G., Capenhurst, nr. Chester.
ELLIOTT, G.W., 51 Shipstone St., New Basford, Notts.
ELLIS, C.L. (S/smith), 4 King Edward Rd., Brentwood, Essex.
ELPHICK, J., 15 George St., Fishergate, Sussex.
EWELS, P., Preston-on-Severn, nr. Shrewsbury.
FARDELL, A., 3 Hertford St., Colchester, Essex.
FARMER, J., 103 Newcombe Rd., Handsworth, Birmingham.
FEAR, J., 1 Greenhill Cottages, Cwmtillery, Wales.
FEWELL, H.P., 162 Upper Bridge Rd., Chelmsford, Essex.
FLETCHER, W., 54 Cranmer St., Nottingham.
FLORY, C., 7 Castle Rd., Colchester, Essex.
FOSTER, S., Wharncliffe Nurseries, Christchurch Rd., Boscombe.
FOX, W.H., 7 Nelson Terrace, Hutchinson St., Nottingham.
FRANCIS, H., Broxhall Farm, Lower Hardis, Canterbury.
FRANCIS, R.C., The Dairy, Woolaton, Notts.
FROST, E., c/o Mrs. Coleman, Forest View, Skegley, Notts.
FRYER, C.S., "A" Squadron, M.G.C. (Cav.) Depot Shorncliffe.
GALLAGHER, C. (Signaller), 47 Alderson Rd., Liverpool.
GARDNER, S.J.M., Billingford, Scole, Norfolk.
GENT, A., Baggholme Rd., Lincoln.
GILL, J., 117 Gloucester Rd., Bootle, Liverpool.
GODFREY, W., 1 Gladstone St., Carlton, Notts.
GOLDIE, H.C., 12 Morpeth St., Spring Bank, Hull (died of wounds,
3-12-1917).
GOODWIN, C.S., 24 Hawksley Rd., Nottingham.
GOODWIN, G., Robine Cossall, nr. Nottingham.
GRANT, R., 5 Gilburn Place, Bo'ness, Scotland.
GREENBAUM, ----, 94 Bridge St., Burdett Rd., London, E.
GREENBURY, W.H., 73 Sleaford, Newark, Notts.
GREGORY, R.H., "Pomona House," Furlong Avenue, Arnold, Notts.
GREIG, L.C., Braunstone, Leicester.
GRESSWELL, W.F., 110 Percival Rd., Sherwood, Notts.
GRIFFITHS, W., 43 East Side, Prendergast, Haverfordwest.
GYTE, J., Taylor Barn, Wessington, nr. Alfreton, Derby.
HADDEN, W.E., 228 Sharland Rd., Maida Hill, London.
HALL, J.E., 10 Clark St., Leicester.
HALLAM, F., 45 Labden St., Long Eaton, Derby.
HARDY, R.M., Cropwell Bishop, nr. Ratcliffe-on-Trent, Notts.
HARMSWORTH, A., "Dowend," Chatsworth Rd., Worthing, Sussex.
HARNESS, H., 66 Barnby Gate, Newark, Notts.
HARRIS, S.A., Lower Herne, Herne, Kent.
HARRIS, T., 5 Baranden St., Notting Hill, London.
HARRISON, A.E., 123 Philip St., Patricroft, Manchester.
HARRISON, F.W., 18 Seeley Rd., Lenton Sands, Notts.
HARRY, R.R., 110 Nolton St., Bridgend, Glam.
HART, E., 32 Church St., Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts.
HART, J., 5 Arundel Drive, Mansfield, Notts.
HARTILL, E., Smyth Cottage, Maidstone, Kent.
HAYES, H., Belle Eau Park Farm, Kirklington, Notts.
HAYES, J.C., Belle Eau Park Farm, Kirklington, Notts.
HAYMAN, J.T., Foresters Arms, High St., Reynsham, Bristol.
HAYWARD, J. (Saddler), 33 Princess Rd., Lower Broughton, Manchester.
HEARN, G., 3 Westfield Rd., Edinburgh.
HEATHCOTE, E., 16 Cromwell Rd., Nottingham (killed at Tahta).
HEMMINGWAY, F., 21 High St., Batley Carr, Batley, Yorks.
HENDERSON, A., The Smithy, Carnoustie, Scotland.
HENSON, T., 47 Chaplain St., Lincoln.
HERRINGTON, R., South Carlton, nr. Worksop, Notts.
HESKETH, E., Newton Green, Alfreton, Derbyshire.
HESLOP, W., 53 Heath St., Stepney, E.
HICKING, J.S., Chatham House, Munday St., Henor, Derby.
HOLBOROW, J., Didmarton, Badminton, Glos.
HOLDER, J., 40 Braydon Rd., Clapton, N.
HOLLINGWORTH, T., 74 Westfield Rd., Caversham, nr. Reading.
HOODLESS, J., Bridgend, Dalston.
HORSTEAD, H., 23 Winterton Rd., Sunthorpe, Lincs.
HOWLETT, J., 119 Brookdale Rd., Catford, S.E.
HUDSON, G.H., 5 Blackfriar St., Stamford.
HUDSON, L., 84 Low St., Keighley, Yorks.
HUDSON, ----, Westgate Rd. Fire Station, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
HUGGETT, G., 19 Cornwall Rd., Brixton, S.W.
HUNT, B., 140 Armagh Rd., Bow, E.
HUNT, E., 5 Bartholomew Cottages, Gillingham, Kent.
HUNT, J., 68 St. Paul's Terrace, Holgate Rd., York.
HUNT, S.F.R., Box 53 P.O., Prince George, British Columbia.
HUTCHINS, G. (Saddle Cpl.), Orchard Lane, Alton, Hants.
HYDE, E.W., 141 Glyn Rd., London, N.E.
INGRAM, F.A., 85 Broad St., Tottenham, London, N.
INKLEY, E.A., 96 St. Anne's Well Rd., Nottingham.
IRVINE, R.J., 140 Roebank St., Dennistoun, Glasgow.
JACQUES, A., 3 Halls Cottages, Stapleford, Notts.
JACQUES, J., " " "
JAMES, C.F., 34 Newcastle Hill, Bridgend, Glam.
JARVIS, E., 75 Lyndhurst Rd., Sneinton Dale, Nottingham.
JARVIS, W.B., 70 Eldon St., Greenock, Scotland.
JENKINS, E., West Farm, Llantwith Major, Cardiff.
JOHNSTON, J., 52 Hyde Park St., Anderston, Glasgow (died 15-10-18,
Damascus).
JOHNSTON, R., Charleston-by-Glamis, Forfar.
JOYNCE, C.
KAVANAH, R., 14 Park Grove Rd., Leytonstone, Essex.
KEARN, G., Dean Farm, Willey Broseley, Salop.
KEMP, A., 13 Baumont St., Sneinton, Notts.
KEMSLEY, J., Breadgar, nr. Sittingbourne, Kent.
KENNY, R., Newton-on-Ouse, nr. York.
KENT. S.C., 28 Scaresdale St., Carr Vale, Bolsover, Derbyshire.
KITE, W.J., Witney Rd., Finstock, Charlbury, Oxon.
KNIGHT, L.J., Hanescombe, nr. Brookthorpe, Gloucester.
KNOTT, E., Lord St., Mansfield, Notts.
LAKE, J., 8 King St., Tibshelf, nr. Alfreton, Derby.
LAMBDEN, E.J., Ivy Bridge, Bourne End, Bucks.
LAMBIE, J., 21 Shamrock St., New City Rd., Glasgow.
LAND, F., Lynton Rd., Porlock, Somerset.
LARCOMBE, W., Chardstock, Chard, Somerset.
LAURIE, W., 27 Margaret St., Hixbourne, Birmingham.
LEAFE, F.F., 5 Birkland Avenue, Peel St., Nottingham (killed Tel el
Quelfi).
LEE, P., 7 Strawberry Terrace, Newtown, Retford, Notts.
LEEDALE, J.B., Victoria House, Bourne, Lincs.
LESLIE, C., 145 Princess St., Dundee.
LEVERTON, C., Abbott St., Asworth, Notts.
LINES, A.J., 66 Church St., Oldbury, Staffs.
LOWE, W.H., Cuckney, Mansfield, Notts.
LOY, P.A., "St. Malo," Mildmay Rd., Romford, Essex.
LUMB, P.J., 2 Upper Oxford St., Doncaster.
MACINTOSH, A., 157 Ewart Rd., Forest Fields, Nottingham.
MACKENZIE, W., The Cottage, Balfour Place, Kirkcaldy.
MANN, J., Seafield St., Cullen, Banffshire.
MAPLETOFT, L., The Cottage, Great Gonerby, Grantham.
MARRIOTT, J., 63 Nottingham Rd., Stapleford, Notts.
MARSHALL, F., 19 Lawrence St., York.
MARSHALL, J.L., 257 Sherwood St., Nottingham.
MATHEWS, W.H., 39 Eperns Rd., Fulham, S.W.
MATTOCKS, W.J., 122 Lower Addiscombe Rd., East Croydon, Surrey.
MCDONALD, M., Sabbell Village, Carradale, Argyleshire.
MCLELLAN, E.R., 110 Leddard Rd., Langside, Glasgow.
MCLENNAN, J., 80 Culdrethal Rd., Inverness.
MELLOWS, S., 12 Whyburn St., Hucknall, Nott. (died).
MILES, A.H., 25 Rutland St., Pimlico, S.W.
MILES, A.H. (Wheeler), 49 Greet Rd., Brentford, Middlesex.
MILLAN, T., West Bank Place, Falkirk, Scotland.
MILNTHORPE, H., 28 South Parade, Doncaster.
MITCHELL, J.P., 99 Whitfield St., Fitzroy Square, London.
MORRIS, S., 64 Darrel Rd., Retford, Notts.
MOYES, A.E., 6 West Lane, Sittingbourne, Kent.
MURRAY, J.J., Porters Well, Uddingston, Lanark.
MUSSON, J., 176 Foxhill Rd., Carlton, Notts. (killed in action, Damascus,
30-9-18).
NIX, T.V., Cherry House, Red Hill Rd., Arnold, Notts.
OLDHAM, J.J., Carleton-on-Trent, Newark.
OLIVANT, G., Nettleham Lodge, Nr. Lincoln.
ORDISH, E.A., 17 Sketchley St., Bluebell Hill, Nottingham.
OSBORNE, A.W., 32 New St., Chelmsford, Essex.
PAMPLING, W., 193 Newmarket Rd., Cambridge (died).
PARKIN, F.W., The Lodge, Scrooby, Bawtry, Yorks.
PARKIN, S., 31 Kilbourne St., Nottingham.
PATTERSON, W., Monaltrie Rd., Ballater.
PEACH, L., Eccleston, Amersham, Bucks.
PEARSON, H., 32 Hope St., Brampton, Chesterfield.
PEARSON, T., 20 Bloomsgrove St., Radford, Notts.
PEEL, A., Newport, Lincoln.
PERRY, A., Sturtingale Cottage, Rush Hill, Bath.
PHILLIPS, C., 29 Thorn St., Derby.
PITTS, J., 10 South Parade, Bath.
PRICE, E., The Turfs, Norton Canes, Camrock, Staffs.
PRICE, M., Quinton, Pennfields, Wolverhampton.
PRICE, W.A.C.H., 8 Camden Rd., Stamford.
PRITCHARD, S., Rosemount, Ponkey, Wrexham.
QUESTED, R., Park Gate Farm, Elham, nr. Canterbury, Kent.
RATCLIFFE, J., 17 Old Paradise St., Lambeth, S.E.
REED, H., 33 Church Terrace, Tower Rd., Erith.
REEKMANS, W. (Saddler), 20 Ducie St., Brixton, S.W.
RICHMOND, E.J., Moorgate Hill, Retford, Notts.
RIDGWAY, A., "Goat's Head," Lillingstone, Daysell, Bucks.
RILEY, E.A., 31 Weston St., Nechells, Birmingham (taken prisoner 1-11-17,
supposed wounded, not since heard of, presumed dead by W.O.).
RIPPIN, F., 10 King's Head Place, Market Harboro', Leics.
ROBERTS, W., 82 Brunswick St., The Mount, York.
ROBERTSON, A., 192 New City Rd., Glasgow.
ROBINSON, H. (Signaller), 120 Nottingham Rd., Mansfield, Notts.
RUARK, A.C., 8 Wanlip Rd., Plaistow, E.
RUSH, E., Co-Operative Yard, Worksop, Notts.
SAVORY, S.W., St. Peter's Rd., Cleethorpes, Lincs.
SCOTT, W., 20 Thames St., Retford, Notts.
SEAMAN, C.W., 60 Lee St., Holderness Rd., Hull.
SEARS (S/Smith), 9 Back Cottages, Commercial Rd., Bullwell, Notts.
SHARPE, C.A., 51 Gedling Rd., Carlton, Notts.
SHARPE, W.F., 119 Ryland Rd., Edgbaston, Birmingham.
SHEPHERD, J., 37 Plantation St., Wallsend-on-Tyne.
SHERRATT, C., 4 Crown Terrace, Basford, Notts.
SHORT, P.C., North Aston, nr. Deddington, Oxon.
SIDDALL, J.C., 11 Sedd St., Ratcliffe, nr. Manchester.
SINCLAIR, J., 42 Stewart Terrace, Edinburgh.
SISSON, A., 41 Hempshill Lane, Bulwell, Notts.
SISSONS, E., 3 Honey Place, Main St., Bulwell, Notts.
SLEIGHTHOLME, A., Atworth, Melksham, Wilts.
SMITH, C., Kneeton Rd., East Bridgford, Notts.
SMITH, C.W., 37 Bishopbridge Rd., Norwich.
SMITH, E.C., 1 Fern Cottages, St. Osyth Rd., Clacton-on-Sea.
SMITH, H., 4 Dulwich Rd., Radford, Notts.
SMITH, W., 94 Blackstone St., Nottingham.
SMITH, W.J., The Barracks, Westcott, nr. Dorking, Surrey.
SOPER, W., 36 Brandon Buildings, Clifton, Bristol.
SOUTHEY, G.E., 46 Brownlow Rd., Putney, S.W.
SPENCER, F., 80 Laughton Rd., Dennington, nr. Rotherham.
SPENCER, G., 37 Ortzen St., Radford, Notts.
SPENCER, G., 37 Padiham Rd., Burnley, Lancs. (died).
SPINKS, W.K., West End, Ely, Cambs.
SPRATT, B., 13 Methley St., Meadow Rd., Leeds.
SPRINGETT, A.J., Avon's Dale, Colchester.
STANILAND, A., 6 Howard Rd., Mansfield, Notts. (killed Damascus).
STANLEY, A.B. (Signaller), 16 New Rd., Ridgwood, Uckfield, Sussex.
STAPLETON, H., Bulcot Lodge Farm, Burton Joyce, Notts.
STRANKS, T.H., 43 Quarry St., Milverton, Leamington.
STRAW, A., 2 Tennyson Terrace, Hawksley Rd., Nottingham.
STROSS, G., 40 Brighton Rd., Birkdale, Southport.
TALBOTT, F.C., 134 Church Square, Newport, Salop.
TANNER, H.G., Police Station, Amesbury, Wilts.
TAYLOR, E.E., "Brim Cottage," Griffiths Crossing, Carnarvon.
TEGGIN, H., "The Pentre," St. Martins, Oswestry, Salop.
THOMAS, J.E., Pillford, Milford Haven.
THOMPSON, A., Whitwell, Mansfield, Notts.
THOMPSON, A.M., Greenhead Gate, Lanark.
THOMPSON, D.J., 61 Henderson St., Glasgow.
THORNHILL, H., 48 Park Rd., Lenton, Nottingham.
THORPE, C., 18 Gordon Hill, Enfield, Middx.
TIVEY, A., 5 Gedling Rd., Carlton, Notts.
TOINTON, J., Elmsford House, Spalding, Lincs.
TOLHURST, W.G., 9 Marden Lane, London.
TOOKE, R., "Horseshoes," Scottow, Norwich.
TOOLEY, H.A.
TRIPP, S.H., 116 Nag's Head Hill, St. George, Bristol.
TUBBS, H.C., 7 Warwick Villas, Homerton, N.E.
TURNBULL, J., 16 Lothian St., Hawick.
TURNER, G.
TURNER, W.E., "The Admiral Napier," Weedington Rd., Kentish Town, N.W.
TYLER, B.H. School House, Ironville, Derby.
VAUGHAN, T.G., Rock House, nr. Bewley, Worcester.
VEITCH, J. (S/Smith), 86 Scott St., Galashiels, Scotland.
WALKER, A., 150 Moorbottom Rd., Crosland Moor, Huddersfield.
WALLACE, G., 828 Argyle St., Glasgow.
WALPOLE, A.N., Anthills Farm, Redhall, Harleston, Norfolk.
WALSHAW, L.J., 56 Cannon St., Belgrave, Leicester.
WANSTALL, P.N.
WARD, B.V., "Sankta Koro," Vallance Rd., Muswell Hill, N.
WATERSON, A., 16 North Junction St., Leith, Scotland.
WATSON, B.E., Rose Cottage, Girton, Cambridge.
WATSON, J., 2 Lightfoot Buildings, Cinque Ports St., Rye, Sussex.
WATTS, C.P., 7 Brown's Rd., Plaistow, E.
WEATHERLEY, E.J., 120 Lovatt St., Grimsby.
WEBB, C.J., 21 Lower Addiscombe Rd., Croydon, Surrey.
WEIGHILL, A., 70 Oxford St., Barnsley.
WHITBY, J., 26 Lower Brook St., Long Eaton, Notts.
WHITE, C.F., 21 Pelham St., Brighton, Sussex.
WHITE, S., Frilsham, Yattendon, Newbury, Berks.
WHITLOCK, G.H., 44 Bushy Park, Tottendown, Bristol.
WICK, S., 13 Golden Dog's Lane, Norwich.
WILBRAHAM, ----, Barton, Malpas, Cheshire.
WILLIAMS, G., Collets Green, Porwick, Worcester.
WILSON, A., 21 Chisholm Rd., Croydon, Surrey.
WINFIELD, R.J., Checkendon, nr. Reading, Oxon.
WOOD, F., 6 Barfields, Bletchingley, Surrey.
WORTHINGTON, J.W., 41 The Hill, Kirby-in-Ashfield.
WRIGHT, T., "Ivy House," Aixley, Corringham Gainsboro', Lincs.
WROOT, B., High St., Misterton, Notts.
Roll of Honour.
As a result of the circular letter dated 3-6-20, referred to on page 172,
the following names have been received of those Members of the 20th
Machine-Gun Squadron who have made the SUPREME SACRIFICE in their Country's
service:--
Major L.F. ST. JOHN DAVIES, M.C.
Lieut. H.A. PRICE, M.C.
Sergt. W.H. MORDEN.
Lce. Corpls. F. CARR.
A. MARRIOTT.
Privates G. BOAK.
B. CAPEL.
P. CHANTRY.
H.C. GOLDIE.
E. HEATHCOTE.
J. JOHNSTON.
F.F. LEAFE.
S. MELLOWS.
J. MUSSON.
W. PAMPLING.
E.A. RILEY.
G. SPENCER.
A. STANILAND.
(_N.B.--The above, it is feared, does not include all the names in spite of
every effort that has been made to obtain a complete list._)
End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Through Palestine with the 20th
Machine Gun Squadron, by Unknown
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