THE 131st U. S. INFANTRY (First Infantry Illinois National Guard) IN THE WORLD WAR NARRATIVE-OPERATIONS-STATISTICS GENERAL NARRATIVE BY COLONEL JOSEPH B. SANBORN C'dMMAXDINC REGIMENT Special Narratives hy Officers Commaudimj Various Units aud Detachments Ol'ERATIOXS COMriLKl) BY CAPTAIN GEORGE N. MALSTROM 0I>E1!AT10NS (IFFICEK Statistics hij the Person ttel Adjutant's Office WITH MAPS, PHOTOGRAPHB TAKEN ON VARIOUS BATTLE FIELDS, PHOTO- GRAPHS OF OFFICERS, ROSTERS, ETC. CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 1919 .33 o. Copyright by J. B. SANBORN 1919 All persons desiring to reprint extracts from this volume are given permission to clo so without reservation. OCT 31 J9f9 >CU586HP1 INTRODUCTORY This volume is not a publication. It has been issued with the sole object in view of furnishing the officers and men of the One Hundred Thirty-first United States Infantry with a complete historical record of their achievements in the World War. To that end great care has been exercised in the compilation of tables and lists, showing engagements, ele- ments of the regiment in battles, Corps and Armies attached to, daily disposition of units, casualty lists, strength reports, company rosters of May 30, 1918, decorations awarded, citations, etc. Company rosters are arranged to show disposition of every man who landed in France with the company, all replacements and assignments and their final disposition. Following each name will be found a notation, if killed, wounded or gassed, when necessary to so classify. Gassed cases have been divided into two classes, serious and slight. The reason for this classification is due to the fact that men sent to Aid Stations, completely exhausted, were listed by the surgeons as slightly gassed. Large numbers of those so classified returned to the ranks in a few days, or a few hours after treatment, con- sisting solely of warm drinks and rest. No record is obtainable, except through the War Department, con- cerning men evacuated to army hospitals, general hospitals, or S. 0. S., consequently, such cases are herein listed as ''Dropped from the rolls, sent to hospital on such a date, etc., ' ' as the case may be. There were 242 officers assigned, or attached to this regiment, between May 30, 1918, and the date of embarkation to the United States, May 14, 1919. Whenever any of these officers were found incompetent, or failed to perform the duties assigned to them in battle, or other operations, their transfer or discharge was requested at once. It is not to be assumed that any fixed proportion of the officers transferred out of the regiment came under this classification. Many were promoted, others transferred and assigned to some special duty for which their qualifications best suited them. The ideal is unattainable. In a vast army, such as was mobilized by the United States for service in this war, nearly all officers and men, with the exception of our small reg-iilar arrfey^_ came from the farms, the office and the workshop. They had never been in a war before, and had -no conception of the conditions of a modern battle, except such impres- sions as they had gained from articles in the newspapers and in training camps. It is inconceivable that any person could believe that under such INTRODUCTORY circumstances some officers and men would not fail when put to tlie supreme test. Fortunately, such instances were rare. In all cases prompt and proper action was taken by the regimental commander to insure the subsequent leadership, supervision and best interests of all concerned. Those who met the test like brave men are known to their comrades, those who did not, have been passed upon by the same unfailing judgment. That is sufficient. Due to loss of regimental records at Brest, France, the first two chapters of this volume do not contain all the details desired. Omissions, however, are unimportant. Compilation of this history was not started until after the regiment was settled in its billet area in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Duo to intensive training work, schools, terrain exercises, drill, etc., the major portion of the work was accomplished under pressure, mostly at night and by a limited number of peojjle. Great care has been exercised to pre- vent errors, no doubt some will be found, especially in the spelling of names and copying co-ordinates referring to map locations. The latter may be checked by reading the different orders issued by various units. Acknowledgment is herein made to the officers and other ranks men- tioned below who, by their untiring perseverance and devotion to the cause, made the completion of the work possible. Captain George M. Malstrom, who personally went over the different battlefields and took photographs of important points, supervised the making of maps, copying of orders and messages, and made the tabulations. Captain Severra A. Stenson and Captain Robert J. Jordan, who supervised the compilation of personnel lists; Sergeant E. W. Kuehn and Private Y. A. Carlson, topographers; Sergeant R. M. Kupferschmidt, Private B. N. Jolly and Private F. M. Guy, operations and intelligence; Sergeant Major William M. Bollig. and Sergeant J. J. McMahon, statistics. J. B. SANBORN. CONTENTS PART FIRST PAGE Monthly Ketuius and Roeoi-a of Events ... Engagements 131st Infantry ■ ^ • • • _; ' ' ■ ' , " " " OfffciSl List of Dates on Which Elements of the ^^'^^-f /^L^. .f. ^^^^^^3^^ Battles and Engagements-List of Armies and Corps Under Which the 33d _^ Division Served After Arrival in France • • • ; Location of Regimental P. C. 's and Units of the 131st Lxf antry in Europe ...... _^ List of Officer Casualties ," ' ' ^' 1 Casualty Table by Engagements (Officers); Casualty Table by Engagements ^ (Men) xi Missing and Prisoners ^. . Enemy Guns and Material Captured 131st Infantry • • ■ • • •-•.•■• . Enemy Prisoners Captured 131st Infantry-Code Calls-Uepartnunital 33d Div. xiii Code Calls for Telephone Use Individual-Code Calls 131st Intantry-Bntish ^_^ Code Calls ^^. List of Abbreviations Used in This Volume ^^ . Brief Explanation of Military or Battle Maps ■,;■■■■,■ Reading of Co-ordinates on British Maps-Reading of Co-ordinates on a I rench xvii Translation' of Abbreviations Used on French Maps xxii Military Map .-. „ . ,, xx xxi Sketch No. 1— Sketch No. Sketch No. 3 ^^jjj Sketch No. 4, Interesting In cidents in the History of the 1st Regt. Inf., I. N. G xxiv CHAPTER 1 The Call to Arms CHAPTER II Training at Cam]> Logan CHAPTER III On French Soil CHAPTER IV Amiens Sector Attack on Hamel— Operations to August 7, 1918 CONTENTS CHAPTER V The Soiiinic Offensive, Engagement at Gressaire Wood and Cliipilly Sidge— Operations to Sept. 19, 1918 CHAPTEE VI The Argonne-Meuse Offensive, Forges Wood Engagement— Operations to October 9tL CHAPTER VII The Argonne-Meuse Offensive, Bois de Chaume Offensive and Defensive— Operations to Nov. 4, 1918 CHAPTER VIII ilaire-Bois de Har Other Movements to December 14th Troyon Sector, Attacks on St. Hilaire-Bois de Harville-ia Bertaucourt Farm, Etc. CHAPTER IX Operations Until Final Muster Out of the Regiment June 6, 1919— In Germany and Luxembourg— Return to the United States CHAPTER X Narratives of Comj.any M, Machine Gun Co., Medical Detachment, Capt. Herman H Weimer, Capt. C. M. Gale, Lieut. Fred L. Rinkliff, Lieut. H. C. de Bruyn, Lieut Samuel C. Davis, Lieut. Frank C. Tillson, Lieut. Raymond F. Fiedler, Lieut! Frank C. Albright, Lieut. Gary Sanger, Jr., Lieut. Howard H. Williams, Sgt. Walter D Corning and Cpl. A. O. Torset CHAPTER XI Letters and Orders of Commendation CHAPTER XII Decorations and Meritorious Conduct Certificates Awarded— Citations— Awards Still Pending CHAPTER XIII Information Regarding Officers and Men Killed in Action, Etc. CHAPTER XIV Field Orders 131st Infantry CONTENTS CHAPTEE XV Defense Selieme Mort Homme Sub Sector CHAPTER XVI Britisli Orders May 6 to Aug. 19, 1918 CHAPTER XVII Messages Sent and Received Aug. 7, 1918 to Nov. 11, 1918 CHAPTER XVIII Field Orders 66th Infantry Brigade— 1918-1919 CHAPTER XIX Field Orders 33d Division— 1918 PART SECOND CHAPTER XX Rosters of Otficers CHAPTER XXI Rosters of Company A CHAPTER XXII Rosters of Company B CHAPTER XXIII Rosters of Company C CHAPTER XXIV Rosters of Company D CHAPTER XXV Rosters of Company F CONTENT8 CHAPTER XXVI Rosters of Company F CHAPTER XXVll Rosters of Company C CHAPTER XXVIll Rosters of Company H CHAPTER XXIX Rosters of Company 1 CHAPTER XXX Rosters of Company K CHAPTER XXXI Rosters of Company L CHAPTER XXXII Rosters of Company M CHAPTER XXXIII Rosters of Headquarters Company CHAPTER XXXIV Rosters of Machine Gun Company CHAPTER XXXV Rosters of Supply Company CHAPTER XXXVI Rosters of Medical Detachment ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE Capt. George R. Miller, Ailjutant; Capt. Severra A. Stensou, Persounel Adjutant; Capt. George N. Malstrom, Operations Officer; Capt. Edgar J. Emerick, In- telligence Officer 3 Regimental Non-Conimissioned Staff and Clerical Force 5 Maj. Fred E. Haines, Lieut. Albert G. Jefferson and Sgt. Maj. H. E. Edison. ... 7 Hot Chocolate and Doughnuts 9 Knights of Columbus Activities — Recreation room and some of the Avorkers 11 lolst Infantry Message Center, showing Runners, Mounted Orderlies, Motorcycles and other means of communication 13 131st Infantry Ration and Supply Dump, Larochette, Luxembourg 15 Hike to the Battlefield, San Jacinto, Tex 18 Capt. George N. Malstrom, and Operations and Intelligence Staff 19 Maj. Walter H. Magner and Staff 20 Medical Officers and Chaplains 131st Inf 21 Chaplain Thos. E. Kdgerton and Mail Orderlies 22 Capt. Robt. J. Jordan and Statistical Staff 23 Maj. Francis M. Allen and Staff 24 Medal of Honor Men: Sgt. Jake Allex and Cpl. Alexander Pope 24 Occupation of Luxembourg after the Armistice — on guard at the liig German Eisen und Stall Werke at Steinfort Lux 25 Chaplain Loehr and Driver 26 Cutting up Beef, Ration Detail 27 Guard on German Border at Mertert 27 A German Sentry Box 28 German Water Supply, Bois de Flat Chene 28 Comi>any M Leaving a French Town 29 A Company Embussing for the Front 29 Camp Logan, Texas, When Cleaned Up 3(1 Camp Logan, Texas, On Arrival 30 Pontenezen Barracks, Brest, France, where the 131st Infantry were billeted uion arriving in France, May 30, 191.S 31 Guarding lines of communication at Wasserbillig; Oberbillig, Germany, across River 32 Evacuation Hospital at Glorieux 33 Bray, German Prisoner Driving British G. S. Wagon 34 Dug-out Intelligence Section, front of Verdun 35 Soldiers at Play 35 Battle Area, Directing Signs 36 Main Street of a well known French Town 36 Minenwerfer Captured by 131st Inf. Sept. 26th 37 Machine Guns Captured by 131st Inf. Sept. 26th 37 German Crown Prince's Observation Post, Montfaucon 38 . German Machine Gun Nest, Bois de Chaunie 3K ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE Ruins of Etain 39 German Dug-out, St. Hilaire 39 Conferring the Legion of Honor, Brest 40 Formation for Presentation of Decorations, Brest -40 Ruins of Albert 42 German Prisoners at Work 42 Village of Hamel 43 Despatch Riders, 131st Infantry 44 66th Brigade Headquarters, Deuxnouds, Former Headquarters of Genl. Ludendorf 45 Headquarters of Gen. Wolf at Germonville 46 Headquarters 33rd Division, Fromerville 47 German Pill Box, Bois de Chaume 48 Lunch on Battlefield near Chiijilly 48 German Gun Captured by 131st Inf. East of Gercourt 49 German Trench Mortar 49 German Battery Captured by 131st Inf. near Gercourt 50 Ruins of Church, Sivry Sur Meuse 51 Outside View of Church, Sivry Sur Meuse 51 A Shell Bursting on the Edge of Bois les Hautes Epines 52 Valley Between Sailly Le Sec and Sailly Laurette 56 Regimental Aid Station along Chipilly Road at valley leading toward Malard Wood 57 One Entrance to Captured German Dug-out used during operations by Regimental Staff 58 Road from Sailly Laurette to Chipilly and Entrance to Valley at K 32b, where Regiment turned in to form up for the attack 59 Forming up Line in Valley, Somme Offensive 60 Continuation of Malard Wood Valley, 2nd Battalion forming up line 61 Continuation of Malard Wood Valley and forming up line looking North 62 Celestine Wood, looking towards Gressaire Wood 63 Looking East into the Valley from North edge of Malard Wood at position of 3rd Battalion during first days of fighting 64 Looking north in Valley K 32b, showing German Dug-outs used by Reserve Battalion 65 Abandoned British Machine Gun Post in Malard Wood. Retaken by 131st Inf. (See also page 74) 66 Valley leading to Gressaire Wood, looking West toward the town of Chipilly from edge of Celestine Wood 67 Gressaire Wood 68 Gressaire Wood. Foot of German Observation Tree in foreground 69 West Side of Gressaire Wood, German 77 MM Gun hid in brush 70 Rear View of Captured German 77 MM Gun on West edge of Gressaire Wood. 71 German Artillery Dump. Edge of Gressaire Wood 72 Direct Hit on a German Caisson, Gressaire Wood 73 British Machine Gun Post Abandoned Aug. 8th and Retaken by the 131st In- fantry Aug. 9-10 74 Line on the Bray-Corbie road held by the 131st Infantry, morning of Aug. lOtli, 1918. Two Graves of 131st Infantry soldiers killed August 10th in center of Photograph 75 Looking West from Chipilly Ridge along the Somme River 76 A Street Scene in Eitneheiu 77 ILLUSTEATIONS PAGE Chipilly Church 78 Looking West toward Double Telegraph Pole on Bray-Corbie road 79 First Battalion P. C. and Aid Station, River Road, between Chipilly and Eitne- hem, where Pvt. Burson, M. C, was killed 80 Captured German Trenches North of Bray-Corbie road 81 Support Trenches of the 1st Battalion in front of Eitnehem 81 Last stand of Germans in Eitnehem Bend. Newly dug Machine Gun positions. 82 Section of German Trenches on the outskirts of Bray 82 Supply Company Headquarters, Germonville 83 Aeroplane View. Forges Swamp, North to Gercourt and Drillancourt 84 View South from Bethencourt. Ruins of the town in Foreground 85 Forges Swamp 86 Grave in Forges Swamp 87 Raffecourt Mill Ruins and the Road on which the right of the 131st Infantry formed up on the Morning of Sept. 26th, 1918 88 Ruins of Raffecourt Mill, looking North toward Forges Wood 89 Left of the forming up Line of the 131st Infantry near the ruins of an old German Foot Bridge over Forges Swamp 90 Billemont Trenches, Near Forges Wood ; 91 German Strong-point on Hill 281. Captured Sept. 26, by 131st Infantry 92 German Pill Box Containing 3 Machine Guns in Billemont Trenches. Captured by 131st Infantry Sept. 26 93 German Snipers' Post in Billemont Trenches. Captured by 131st Infantry 91 Billemont Trenches and Bois de Forges 95 German Observation Post in Cervaux Trenches. Captured by 131st Infantry 96 A German Headquarters captured on the 26th of September and used as Regi- mental Headquarters until Oct. 10th, 1918 97 German Headquarters on Hill 281. Captured by 3rd Battalion 98 Gercourt-Drillancourt-Bois de Jure 99 Regimental Observation Post in front of Forges Wood 100 German Aid Station at Drillancourt. Captured by 131st Infantry 101 Cliurch at Gercourt 102 Machine Gun Nest, Gercourt. Captured by Sgt. Jake Allex 102 Ruins of Gercourt. Town captured by 131st Infantry 103 Outpost of Co. L, overlooking Sivry Sur Meuse 103 Spring at Drillancourt 103 Reading Citations — Legion of Honor — Presentations — Brest 10-t Road to Bridge over Meuse River near Consenvoye 107 American Aeroplane shot down near Drillancourt 107 Railroad Station at Consenvoye, and Bridge Crossing the Meuse River ]09 View of the Meuse River from Consenvoye Bridge, looking South Ill German Dug-out South of Consenvoye, used as Headquarters of the 131st Infantry, attack of Oct. 10th to 15th 113 German Dug-outs North of Bois Plat Chene 115 German Machine Gun Position in House at Sivry Sur Meuse 117 Machine Gun position in the advance beyond Bois de Chaume 119 Advance Headquarters of Major Allen, Infantry in Death Valley, South of Bois de Chaume 121 Headquarters of Maj. Bittel, Bois de Chaume 123 Aeroplane View, St. Ililaire and Butgneville 124 ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE Headquarters 131st Infantry at Chaillon 125 Headquarters 3rd Battalion at St. Maurice 126 Headquarters 1st Battalion at Hannonville 127 Headquarters 3rd Battalion at Hannonville 128 Street in Hannonville 129 Street in Hannonville, looking toward Doncourt 130 Aid Post of 131st Infantry at Doncourt 131 Forming up line for raids on St. Hilaire, Nov. 8 and 9, 1918 132 German Machine Gun and Battery positions, St. Hilaire. Captured by 131st Infantry 133 Camouflaged Pill Box, front of St. Hilaire 134 Machine Gun Nest, St. Hilaire 135 Aeroplane View, Bois de Warville and Bois les Hautos E])ines 136 Wire Entanglements around Butgneville 137 Aeroplane View of Bois de Harville 138 Edge of Bois les Hautes Epines, looking toward Bois de Harville 139 Line of German Dug-outs, Bois les Hautes Epines 140 German Pill Box near St. Hilaire 140 La Bertaucourt Farm. Objective of 1st Bn., Nov. lotli 141 Forward P. C. of Eegt. at Woel, Nov. 11 142 Edge of Bois les Hautes Ejiines and Bois de Warville. Shell Explosion 143 Road leading into Bois les Hautes Epines 144 Aid Post, 131st Infantry at Woel 145 Col. Sanborn 's House, Souilly, Oct. 22nd 146 Souilly Woods, 131st Infantry Headquarters 147 The home of Colonel Sanborn during tlie last days of the war, Nov., 1918 149 Wilhelm the First. Dethroned at Metz 151 Wilhelm 2nd, on front of Cathedral, Metz 153 Genl. de Maud 'huy, Governor of Metz 153 Parade of Colors before the President of France at Metz 155 Battalion Standing at Ease. Review at Metz 156 Bridge at Wormeldange Lux, over which the 131st Infantry crossed the Moselle River into Germany 157 Division Review by General Pershing 158 Presentation of British Decorations at Larochette Lux, Jan. 20, 1919 159 General Pershing Decorating the Colors of the 131st Infantry 160 General Pershing. Presentation of Medals, 33rd Div., Luxembourg 161 33rd Div. Reviewed by General Pershing. Saluting the Colors of the 131st Inf.. . 162 Embussing in Luxembourg for the Railhead 163 Leaving Luxembourg 164 The transport Kaiserin Augusta Victoria about to dock with the returned 131st Infantry 165 Governor Lowdeu's Reception Committee in New York Harbor 166 Governor Lowden addressing the Regiment at Camp Mills 167 Col. Davis. Col. Sanborn. Gen. Dickson. Gov. Lowden 168 The breaking up of the 131st Infantry at Camp Mills. Col. Sanborn addressing the first contingent to be separated from the Regiment 169 View at Camp Mills, New York 170 131st Infantry w'ounded in the Home Coming Parade 171 On Michigan Boulevard, June 2nd 172 ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE Men of the 131st Infantry passing through the diseliarge mill at Camp Grant 172 The Home of the Regiment, Chicago 17;> German 38 Centimenter Gun 174 German Trench in the Bois Natchet 177 Ruins of Cumieres 180 German Observation Post, Bois de Chaume 183 ' ' Toot Sweet ' ' Corner, Consenvoye 187 German Machine Gun Posts, Bois de Chaume 193 German Machine Gun Post, Bois de Chaume 206 American Section of Vaux Cemetery 313 Looking East towards Hamel. 131st Infantry and Australian Graves 315 German Prisoners under guard of British Soldiers completing the burial of John S. Murray, Co. G 317 Grave of Capt. Hackett, Vaux Cemetery 319 Grave of Lt. Dickson, Vaux Cemetery 321 Grave of 131st Infantry Ration Party killed in Gressaire Wood 323 Eitnehcm Cemetery, where three men of 131st Infantry are buried 325 Grave of Pvt. A. Micheal, Co. K., in front of Bray, France 327 Graves at Gercourt 331 Eitnehem Cemetery 331 Crucifix on Bray-Corl)ie-Eitne'-!em Road 329 Grave of Lt. Schrauer, Forges Swamp 333 Cemetery at South end of Forges Wood 335 Graves near Aid Station, Drillancourt 337 Graves at Drillancourt 337 Graves North of Bethencourt . 339 German and American Graves, St. Hilaire 339 German Cemetery, St. Mihiel Sector 341 German Cemetery, West of Forges 341 Cemetery South of Bois de Chaume 343 Graves 131st Infantry, Bois de Chaume 343 Grave of 1st Lieut. John R. Marchant, near Sivry Sur Meuse 345 Grave of Pvt. O. C. Clemenson, Co. E 347 Cemetery at Hannonville 348 Dressing Station at Chattancourt 350 Grave of Wm. E. Roselle, Bois de Chaume. 362 Fox Hole of Cpl. Lester, Bois de Chaume. Where .shell landed 362 IN SEPARATE CASE ACCOMPANYING THIS VOLUME PHOTOGRAPHS. 1. Company A at Houston, Tex., 1918 2. Company B at Houston, Tex., 1918 3. Company C at Houston, Tex., 1918 4. Company D at Houston, Tex., 1918 5. Company E at Houston, Tex., 1918 6. Company F at Houston, Tex., 1918 7. Company G at Houston, Tex., 1918. 8. Company H at Houston, Tex., 1918. 9. Company I at Houston, Tex., 1918. 10. Company K at Houston, Tex., 1918. 11. Company L at Houston, Tex., 1918. 12. Company M at Houston, Tex., 1918. 13. Headquarters Company at Houston, Tex., 1918. 14. Supply Company at Houston, Tex., 1918. 15. Machine Gun Company at Houston, Tex., 1918. 16. Band at Houston, Tex., 1918. 17. Medical Detachment at Camp Upton, 1918. 18. Medal Winners 131st Infantry at Camp Mills, 1919. MAPS. 1. Training area — Trench System. Part of Amiens defense west of Amiens. Map sheet SENLIS (British). 2. Attack on Hamel. Map sheet SENLIS (British). 3. Albert. Section of trenches taken over from British troops by the 131st In- fantry, showing advance made. Map sheet SENLIS (British). 4. Attack on Gressaire Wood and Chipilly Ridge August 9 and 10, 1918. Map sheet 62D (British). 5. Defense of Mort Homme. Map sheet VERDUN B (French). 6. Argonne-Meuse offensive (west of Meuse) . Attack and dispositions, Sept. 26, 1918. Map sheet VERDUN B (French). 7. Continuation of No. 6, showing final dispositions to Oct. 9, 1918. 8. Argone-Meuse offensive (east of the Meuse), Oct. 10 to 15, 1918. Map sheets VERDUN B— BRANDEVILLE. 9. Argonne-Meuse offensive, Troyon Sector. Patrols. Map sheet ST. MIHIEL. 10. Argonne-Meuse offensive. Troyon Sector. Attack. Map sheet ST. MIHIEL. :MA.J. OEXL. GEORGE BELL. .TR. Commanding 38(1 Division BRKJ. (iKXL. PAIL A. W«1I,F. rDiiiniMudini;- (Witli Hriii-.-uIc COLONEL JOSEPH P.. SANBORN LIEUT. COL. JAMES M. EDDY MAJ. FKKlt K. IIA MA.I. U. H. MA(;NER MAJ. FRANCIS M. ALLEN MA.T. CEOHI.I; ( AMIMC-i MAJ. WILLIAM R. MANGUM MAJ. ABEL DAVIS (Col. 132(1 Iiif.i MA.I. JOHX V. CLIN.M (Onl. isntli Inf.) MA.T. PAUL C. CALK I ^^^^^^^^^^^^H ■ ^Hl \ ^ MAJ. BERTRAM O. BI'CHANAX AIA.T. HAMLET C. RIDGWAY CArT. GEORGE R. MILLER 'APT. GEORGE N. MALSTROM CAl'T ROKERT T, JORDA •APT, WILLIAM V II1;MiK(I CArT. EDWIN S. HOPPS CAPT. MICHAEL L. HICKEY CAPT. JAMES B. MELVILLK CAPT. WILLIAM \V. IJUIl CAPT. LOUIS PRESTON ^^^ ^-.>. ii _ \1>T CAKHOLL M. (iALE ('APT CilARLKS F TAPI'KR CA]>T JOSEPH B. SHAXfZ CAI'T. HENRY A C.A CAPT. WALTER \V. MARR CAPT, JAMES C. STOCKWELL M,^,-'' ■> 5^^ IM^ .v.v CAPT. BERT LYON CAPT. CHARLES JI. PORTER CAPT. HERMAN WEIMER w.% ,i- CAPT. IIERRERT TEASE CAl'T. NORM AX SCHWALD (APT. WALTETl C. li'SSON (APT. DAVID H. JAM WVT. CAMPBELL G. TIPTON CAPT. CHARLES M XEAL •APT. WALTER H IIOLDEX CAPT. VERNE HAYS M. lie LADERRIEU. French Interpreter •Al'T. irAKRV K. HACKETT ('APT. CHARLES L WAdNKR lAl'T OTTO A. WIR 'Al'T o, ,r. lioKMAN 1ST LIEUT. FRANK E. 1ST LIEl^T. HERBERT C. de msm ■■■■IK^ ■■'^SK^ HMH ^^m. *^ j^^l i..*»feAr-ii ■IHHHh 1ST LIEUT. SAMUEL C. DA^STS 1ST T- i:mi:kmi\ i itfS f , <*!»* «!P» ^ H^-v g£i ...V , 1ST LIET-T. JOHN M. WHITE 1ST LIEUT. GEORGE J. MAY 1ST LIEUT. GEORGE W. GRACE 1ST LIEUT. ARTHUR T T UEI'T. FRANK 1 IKVAXK V ST I.IEIT. .Jt)HN W. SLACK .# >% 1ST LIBIT. EDWARD L RKUSNOW 1ST LIEUT. CHAS. J. KRAFT Sig. 3 1ST LIEUT. HAKRI SOX A. ])irKS()X li^ M 1 ■'-' ^^~ ^ ■ ^pftr^'-'-^ ^Ej A. 1ST LIEUT. J. V. BECKER ' N ST LIEUT. VICTOR STERN ST LIEIT. WILLIAM C. 1ST LIEl'T. E. R. I'LUMMEK 1ST LIEUT, CLAKE PUKCELL ii A 1ST LIEUT. J. E. BROOKS iD LIEUT. A'ICTOR SCHRAUER ■^^ ^^^\^ «mt •m ^^^H Iw . 2D LIEUT. JOHN C. LEE 2D LIEUT. PAITL F HUNNEWELL D LIEUT .\1 i I'dWKLL '^^^J^h. ^^^c '^M s. ^"'^^i^^^ a^ v 21) LIEUT. THDMAS K. COBI! MONTHLY RETURNS AND RECORD OF EVENTS. 1017 Mar. 26 Strength Off MiMi .50 S-4 (iii Off lins Losses Men Off Men Mar. 31 50 1108 2 8(52 2 47 Apr. 30 48 1338 3 59C 1 405 May 31 55 1513 4 212 1 61 July 31 54 1990 Aug. 31 56 1958 Sept. 30 Oct. 31 56 1885 56 1968 Nov. 30 61 2976 Q.D.8 ♦16 1169 2 Dec. 31 103 *2858 45 79 3 1918 Jan. 31 106 ♦3194 11 797 8 Feb. 28 103 *2910 7 46 10 Mar. 31 101 *2852 7 29. 9 Apr. 30 95 *3639 2 1309 6 May 31 108 3612 32 121 19 RECORD OF EVENTS Mobilized at armory, 16th St. & Mich. Ave., Chi. 111. Maj. Clinnin & Co. G to Lockport, 111., Co. E. to Joliet, 111., to guard powci- plants. Sanitary Dist. March 31, details to K. U. I'.ridges, 20th St. & Stewart Ave., 31st St., 95th St., So. Chicago Ave. Apr. 18th, detachiiicnts guarding bridges re-ar- ranged and 12 posts established. 61 May 9, Co. K nia relied to Camp Cicero. May 23 Co. P left for Dellwood Park, Joliet, marching. May 31 Co.'s A, B, C, D, H, I, less detachments 6 recruits marched to Camp Cicero, left 9 :45 a. m., arrived 1 p. m. 23 June 4, Regt'l Band ordered to Ft. Sheridan, June 5-6 Co's E, F and G under command of Major John V. Clinnin at 111. State Penitentiary, Joliet, 111., suppressed revolt of prisoners. Re- lieved by State troops. 45 July 6, Co. M b'ft for Camp Grant, July 16 M. G. Co. left for Ft. Sheridan, July 20 Co's I, K, L left for Cani]> Grant. 111., from Camp Cicero, 10:35 a. ni.. arriviim 4:40 p. m., same day. 74 Co's E, F, G and 2iid Bn. Hq. left Lockport, 111., 7 :20 a. m., marched 15 mi. Aug. 2, arrived in Camp Cicero Aug. 3, 31 mile.s. Aug. 8, 10 officers, 576 men left for Camp Grant, Aug. 13 M. G. Co. left Ft. Sheridan for Cicero, Aug. 16 hand returned. Aug. 2.S, F. s. i^ 11(1. Co.. :m. G. Co., Supply Co., Sanitary troops & 2nd Bn. left Cicero 12:15 p. m., arrived Camp Grant 4 :3(i p. ni. 104 Sanitary Del. to Ft. I'.en.i. Harrison, Sept. 12, Lt.-Col. 6 N. C. OS Sp. Co.. M. G. Co. left Camp Grant 12 :(I0 a. ni. lor Camp Logan. Texas. 184 *15 officers attached — 1st P.n. left Camp Grant 1 :25 p. m., 2nd Bn. 2 :33 p. m., 3rd Bn. 3 :22 p. m. Oct. 1, 1st Sec. Lt.-Col. Eddy & 6 N. C. O's arr. in Camp Logan at 4 a. m. Oct. 3, 2nd Sec. Maj. Davis 11 a. m., Oct. 4, 3rd See. Major Clinnin 12 :45 p. m., Oct. 4, 4th Sec. Major Bittel 2 :52 p. m., Oct. 4. 160 *10 attached. Nov. 2, 1st Bn. to Humble. Nov. 5, 2nd and 3rd Bns. to Rifle Range. 1st Bn. Ret. from Humble Nov. 15. Sent to Rifle Range Nov. 23, returned to Camp Nov. 26. 206 *Including 8 ordnance Det. 1st & 2nd Bns. to Rifle Range Dec. 26. 3rd Bn. to Rifle Range Dec. 29. Sup. Co. Dec. 26 & 29. 462 *Including 7 ord. Det. Jan. 24, Co. E designated Model Co. of Division S. O. 24 Par. 17, 33rd Div. Jan. 24. 323 *Including 7 Ord. Det. Feb. 11^ 1st Bn. in trenches, Feb. 13, 3rd Bn. Feb. 15, 48 hrs. ea. 94 *Including 7 Ord. Det. Mar. 5, M. G. Co. to con- struct Div. Range, Mar. 6, 16 Co. E. to Rifle Range, Mar. 11, Inspection, Mar. 17, 27 Regt. less Co. E Hq. & Sp. to R. Range. 522 *Including S Ord. Det. & 36 candidates for comm's .\pr. s-17, i)raetice march 10 days. 112 Including s Ord. Det. Left Cam_p Logan May 7-9 entraining in 8 sections. Last section arrived Camp Upton Mav 14. Left Camp Upton for Port, May 20-21. Kiiiliarked on S. S. Leviathan. Sailed May 22. Arriv.'d Itrest, France, May ;^0. Marched 3V2 miles to Pontanezen barracks. S. O. S. Base Section No. 5. 182 *11 additional officers attached. June 2 left Pontanzen Barracks and entrained for Oisemont, France. Arrived June 4 and detrained. Billeted MONTHLY RETURNS AND RECORD OF EVENTS— Continued strength (Jains Losses 1918 Off Men Off Men Off Men RECORD OF EVENTS in area around Oisemont and began training. June 10-11 marched to Eu training area. June 21 marched to Ganiaches and embussed for Pier- regot. June 23 and 29 duty reserve trenches Vaden Line. July 31 *95 3.549 SI 4 105 *Including 8 Ord. Det. 17 attached. 66 108th F. S. Bn. also attached 26 officers for training purposes. Under 47th British Division in trenches. Co's C & E and detachments of Go's D & K in fight at Hamel July 4. July 17-18 duty Baizieux sector reserve line. July 23 to Aug. 6 one Bn. in Baizieux sector reserve line and one Bn. in Albert Sector front line. Aug. 31 *.S2 *2S70 35 40 27 690 *Including 8 Ord. Det. 50 attached — 12 officers attached not included. Regiment in Pierregot from June 22 to Aug. S. On Aug. 9 5 :30 p. m. 1st and 2nd Bus. witli 3rd in .sunport attacked and took Malard Wodd. Cliiiiilly Ridge and Gres- saire Wood. Remained on th(> field and in trenches until Aug. 20. Relieved and marched via llaniel to (iailley. Aug. 21 to Aubigny. Aug. 22 to I'dulainville. Aug. 24 marched to Amiens and entrained for Ligny near Verdun. Aug. 25 arrived at Ligny and billeted in Tronville area. Sept. 30 106 *2991 23 512 21 354 *Including 8 Ord. Det. and ."> attached. Sept. 6 marched to Tronville and enib\issed for Balei- court-Nixeville area Sept. 9 Regt. moved into re- serve Mort Homme s/s. Sept. 20 3rd Bn. in strong point Jacques, Mort Homme s/s. Sept. 22 2nd Bn. reinforced 3rd Bn. preparatory to attack. 1st Bn. in reserve. Between midnight and 5 :30 a. m. Sept. lit; Rei;t. in Brody trench. At 5 :30 a. m. formed upon BETHENCOURT- FORGES Road for attacU on Forges Wood and ground north throiigli Drillancourt and Gercourt — east to .Meuse River a di.-^tance of 7 kilometers. Attack successful ami troops in position along the Meuse River liefore Xoon Sept. 26. Held position until Oct. 10. 0(t. 31 76 •2516 14 904 43 1370 *Inclu(liiig 7 Ord. Det. Held position on Meuse River rinlit resting at junction of Forges Creek and .Meuse River l)ank, left on Map Reference Verdun 1'. 2(1'.I-S(l'.l. Oct. 7. 'Jnd I'.n. detailed to 132nd Inf. f,ir attack on l".. No. l(t, llq. 33rd Div.. I'.ns. were placed under orders of the 47th I'.ritish Div.. each Bn. being at- tached liy platoons to British companies in the line tor 4s hours. Under F. (). No. 12. Ilq. 33rd Div., Bns. were attached to troop.s of the 18th, 47th and 5Sth I'.ritish Divisions. A tour of four days in the line for each Bn. as fol- lows : 1st Bn., July 24th, 1918. 2nd Bn., July 28th. 1918. 3rd Bn.. Aug. 1st, 1918. 131st Infantry under orders of the 58th Div., B. E. F. 131st Infantry placed under command of Liaison F<.rce. Relieved from IV Australian Corps. I'irst .American Army Second French Army First Ani.'ficaii .Vrmy First Ani.Ticaii Armv Second American Army Second Anieiican Army Secoiiil American Army Second -American Army Reserve Second . Vmerican Army Secoiiil .\inerican Army Reserve Third .Vmerican Army Second Amcriian Army Reserve Second American Army Third American Army LOCATION OF REGIMENTAL P. C.'S AND UNITS OF THE 131ST INFANTRY IN EUROPE From May 30th, 1918, Date of Arrival from U. S. to May 3rd, 1919. UNIT Regiment Regiment R. H. Q. riq. Co. Sp. Co. 1st P.n. 2nfl Bn. 3rcl Bn. M. O. Co. R. H. Q. R. H. Q. Hq. Co. Sp. Co. iHt Bn. 2n(l Bn. 3rd Bn. R. H. Q. Hq. Co. Sp. Co. 1st Bn. 2nfl Bn. 3rf] Bn. M. G. Co. R. H. Q. Regiment Regiment Regiment R. H. Q. Regiment Regiment R. H. Q. Hq. Co. Sp. Co. 1st Bn. 2nfl Bn. 3rcl Bn. M. a. Co. 1st Bn. 2nd Bn. C. Co. E. Co. 2nd Bn. 1st Bn. 2nd Bn. Regiment Regiment Regiment 1st Bn. 2nd Bn. 3rd Bn. 1st Bn. 2nd Bn. 3rd Bn. R. H. Q. Hq. Co. Sp. Co. 3rd Bn. M. G. Co. 1st Bn. 2nd Bn. R. H. Q. Staff Offlcei R. H. Q. Regiment D.VTI<: May 30th June 2nd June 3rd June 4tli June 4tli June 4tli June 4th June 4th June 4th June 4th June 4th June .5th June 10th June Kith Juni> June June June Junr loth loth loth loth nth June 11 til June nth June nth June nth Juno nth June nth June 13th June 21st OPERATION— LOCATION Disoiiiharked at BREST. FRANCE, proceeded to PON- TANEZAN BARRACKS, CAMP SHELBY— BREST, FRANCE. Entrained for forward area. Enroute. Detrained at OISEMONT, FRANCE. CAITMONT. FRANCE. CATTMONT. FK.VNCE. P(»Ti/rii;Ki:s, fi{ance. crrKK.x, Fii.\N(i;. ii<)(,>ri.\<()Firr. france. FlIFCOFKI", FK.\.\('E. LF TKA.XSF.W, FRANCE. FUrcoFItT. FRANCE. FRANCE. FRANCE. :. I'^rWCF. [LI.A.XCOFRT. FRANCE. lI.LANCorRT, FRANCE. IFl.AXCOFRT. FRANCE. :afmf. fraxce. lAF.MF. FRANCE. RKAF.ME. FRANCE. ('. FRANCE. 'RAXCE. .F, FRANCE. MAICXFVILFF .MAI<;XFVILLK >F\1(;XFVILFF St,-i,ur,l a I F.or StauiMl at I'.or Staged a1 F.OF T-c MKSXIF Rl L(. MFSXII. Rl Lc MFSXII MlFFF r.o :\I()X(I1V. MFI.LFVII June 22nd June 23rd June 23rd June 24 th June 20 th June 30th June 30th June 30th June 30th June 30th June 30th June 30th to Aug. July 2nd July 2nd July 4th July 4th July .'-.th JulV r,th July fith July 17th July 18th July 19th July 23/24th July 27/28th July 31/Aug. 1 July 24/2Sth July 28/ Aug. 1 Aug. 1/Gth Aug. 8th Aug. 8th Aug. 8th Aug. 8th Aug. 8th Aug. 8th Aug. 8th Aug. 8th Aug. 9th Aug. 9th CRAXDCOFRT. FRANCE. P.ARO.MFSXIL. FRANCE. Marched to CAMACIIES and emhussed for PIERRE- GOT. FRANCE. Located at P1ERRE(;()T. FRANCE. Reserve Trenches, duty V.VDEN LINE. DAILY M.ML ^V<>ODS, FR.VNCE. PIERREGOT. FRANCE. Reserve Trenclu's. duty VADEN LINE. PIERREGOT, FRANCE. PIERUFiiOT, FRANCE. pii:rri;(;()t. France. FRi:(IlFXC()FRT. FRANCE. DAOIRS. FRAXCE. PlFRRFcior. FRANCE. On S. D. with IV .\nst. Corps. In front line in the vicinity of VILLERS-BRETTON- EAl'X, FRANCE. do. 2n-7!»10 S. E. of CONSENVOYE, FRANCE. Moved from trenches S. E. of CONSENVOYE, FRANCE, to the Jump Off at 230-811 to 240-814. At- tack launched at 6:05 a. m. Attached to -Jnd Bn. BRAllAXT, FRANCE. DRILLANCOURT. Attached to 2nd Bn. located from 234-807 to 86-70. CUMIERES, FRANCE. Left DRILLANCOURT at 11 p. m. midnight still en- route to new area. Left DRILLANCOURT at 11 p. m. midnight still en- route to new area. vi LOCATION OF P. C.'S AND UNITS— Continued UNIT DATE 1-2-3 Bns. Oct.l9th R. H. Q. Oct. 20th Sp. Co. Oct. 20th Hq. Co. Oct. 20th M. G. Co. Oct. 20th 1st Bn. Oct. 20th 2n(l Bn. Oct. 20th 3rd Bn. Oct. 20th R. H. Q. Oct. 21st Hq. Co. Oct. 21st Sp. Co. Oct. 21st 1st Bn. Oct. 21st 2n(i Bn. Oct. 21st 3rd Bn. Oct. 21st M. G. Co. Oct. 21st R. H. Q. Oct. 28rd Sp. Co. Oct. 23rd Hq. Co. Oct. 23rd M. G. Co. Oct. 23rd 2nd Bn. Oct. 23rd 1st Bn. Oct. 23rd 3rd Bn. Oct. 23rd 2nd Bn. Oct. 28th I. Co. Oct. 2Sth Regt. Band Oct. 28th 3rd Bn. Oct. 29th 2nd Bn. Oct. 29th R. H. Q. Nov. 4th Hq. Co. Nov. 4th Sp. Co. Nov. 4th M. G. Co. Nov. 4th R. H. Q. Nov. 5th Hq. Co. Nov. 5th 1st Bn. Nov. 5th 2nd Bn. Nov. 5th 31(1 Bn. Nov. 5th 1st Bn. Nov. 12th 2nd Bn. Nov. 12th 3rd Bn. Nov. 12th M. G. Co. Nov. 12th Sp. Co. Nov. 12th K. & M. Cos. Nov. 19th M. G. Co. Nov. 19th Prov. Bn. Dec. 5th Regiment Dec. 7th Prov. Bn. Dec. 7th R. H. Q. • Dec. 8th Hq. Co. Dec. 8th Sp. Co. Dec. 8th M. G. Co. Dec. 8th 1st Bn. Dec. 8th 2nd Bn. Dec. 8th 3rd Bn. Dec. 8th Prov. Bn. Dec. 8th R. H. Q. Dec. 9th Hq. Co. Dec. 9th M. G. Co. Dec. 9th Sp. Co. Dec. 9th 1st Bn. Dec. 9th 2nd Bn. Dec. 9th 3rd Bn. Dec. 9th Prov. Bn. Dec. 9th R. H. Q. Dec. 10th M. G. Co. Dec. 10th Sp. Co. Dec. 10th 3rd Bn. Dec. 10th Hq. Co. Dec. 10th IstBn. Dec. 10th 2nd Bn. Dec. 10th Prov. Bn. Dec. 10th R. H. Q. Dec. 11th Hq. Co. Dec. 11th M. G. Co. Dec. 11th Sp. Co. Dec. 11th OPERATION— LOCATION L.-ft DKIELANCOURT at 11 p. m. midnight still en- mtf t I'.OIS d r.ois (1 I'.OI.S ,1 HOIS (I. I^OIS (1( P.OIS (1( P.OIS (I, Caiiii) MONTI lA IK Camp .MO.XTIIAIK CaiDit .MO.XTIIAIK lew area. XIXEVILLE XIXEVILLE XIXEVILLE 'LAUI 'LAIT LAIT NORD, FRANCE. NORD, FRANCE. LE. XORD, FRANCE. EKA.XCE. (Staging point.) I'KAXCE. FRANCE. FRANCE. )xX— 260-505. )N— 260-505. IN— 260-505. Secret Map No. 155. Secret Map No. 155. Secret Map No. 155. 291-425. Map 291-425. Map Le (TIAXOIS— West 255-473. FEK.ME I'OXronX. 263-492. Ee TAMA KIS— Camp "D" — 285-492. Ee 'I'A.MAKIS— Camp "D" — 285-492. CIIATE.M' TIIILLOMBOIS, FRANCE, Kef. ST. .MIIIIEL. CIIATE.M TIIILLOMBOIS, PRANCE, Kff. ST. .MIIIIEL. CIIATE.vr TIIILLOMBOIS, FRANCE, 291-425. Map Kef. ST. .MIIIIEL. ciiAri:.\r tiiillombois, France. 291-425. Map K<'f. ST. MIIIIEL. Camp C I I'.K ALTAR— 286-419. WOlMr.EY- ■.U\-44->. TIIILLO.MI'.OIS— L>!tl-425. 1 CO. at WOKL — :-! Cos. in Bols LA HAYES, FRANCE. ST. .MIIIIEL, FK.VXCE. ST. .MIIIIEL, FRANCE. E.xcept I Co. to CII.VILLON, FRANCfe. DErXXOITiS, FK.\NCE. CIIAILLON. FRANCE. CHAILLON. FRANCE. (TIAILLON, FRANCE. DEIXNOIDS, FRANCE. VKiXEILLES. Maps A & B, 482-486. Ill viciiiitv 4S2-4S6. In vicinity 4II1-467. In vicinity 473-.")Sl (Bns. in Trenches and Outposts). In viN1 EVI LLK, FRANCE. MONIEVILLE, FRANCE. MONIFVILLE, FRANCE. In Mine Bldgs. across rl\ FRANCE. VALLEROY. FRANCE. IIATRIZE, FRANCE. METZ. MANCIEULLES, FRANCE, MANCIEI'LLES. FRANCE. MANCIEILLFS, FRANCE. MANCIEULLES, F RA NCE. MANCIEULLES, FRANCE. MAIRY, FRANCE. ANOIX. FRANCE. BRIEY. FRANCE. MEKCV-Lc-IIAUTI MERCY L( -II AUTI MERCY Lc-IIAI MERCY-Lr-IIAl sp:rkouvillf SERROUVILLi: METZ. FRANCE. er from MONIEVILLE, FE FRANCE. FRANCE. FINANCE. FRANCE. FRANCE. FRANCE. BOUDKEZY, FK.\NCE Rejoin. Ml R.'iiim.'iit. SCinFFLAN(;K. LUXE.MIUIRG. sciiifflaxce, luxe.mijurg. sciiifflan(;e, Luxemburg. SCIIIFFLANGE, LUXEMBURG. vii LOCATION OF P. C.'S AND UNITS— Continued UNIT D ATE 1st Bn. Dec. 11th 2nd Bn. Dec. 11th Snl Bn. Dec. 11th R. H. Q. Dec. 12th Hq. Co. Dec. 12th Sp. Co. Dec. 12th 1st Bn. Dec. 12th 2nd Bn. Dec. 12th M. G. Co. Dec. 12th K. & L. Cos. Dec. 12th I. & M. Cos. Dec. 12th R. II. Q. Dec. 14th Hq. Co. Dec. 14th Sp. Co. Dec. 14th M G. Co. Dec. 14th 1st Bn. Dec. 14th 2nd Bn. Dec. 14th 3rd Bn. Dec. 14th R. 11. Q. Dec. 15th Hq. Co. Dec. 15th Sp. Co. Dee. 15th M. (;. Co. Dec. 15th IstBn. Dec. 15th 2nd Bn. Dec. 15th 3id Bn. Dec. 15th R. H. Q. Dec. 17th Hq. Co. Dec. 17th Sp. Co. Dec. 17th M. G. Co. Dec. 17th 1st Bn. Dec. 17th 2nd Bn. Dec. 17th 3 Id Bn. Dec. 17th R. H. Q. Dec. 2nth Hq. Co. Dec. 20th Sp. Co. Dec. 20th E. & P. Cos. Dec. 20th G. & H. Cos. Dec. 20th I. L. & M. Cos. Dec. 20th K. Co. Dec. 20th M. G. Co. Dec. 20th B. C. & D. Cos. Dec. 20th A. Co. Dec. 20th 1st Bn. P. C. Dec. 22nd B. Co. Plat Dec. 22nd A. Co. Dec. 22nd D. Co. Dec. 22nd Co. I. & K. Dec. 28th Co. B., less 4 Platoons Dec. 30th 1 Plat. Dec. 30th 1 Plat. Dec. 30th Cos. G. & H. Jan. 5th, '19 Cos. I. & K. Jan. 5th, '19 Co. K. Jan. 12th 1st Bn. . Jan. 25th Co. A. Jan. 25th 1 Plat. Jan. 25th 10 men G. D. Jan. 25th 1 Plat. Jan. 2.5th Co. B. Jan. 25th 1 Plat. Jan. 25th 1 Plat. Jan. 25th 1 Plat. Jan. 25th Co. C. Jan. 25th Co. F. Feb. 22nd Co. B. Feb. 24th Co. C. Feb. 24th Co. B Apr. 8th Co. A. Co. Hq. Co. C. Co. A. Apr. 10th 1st Bn. Apr. 27th LOCATION S('H1FKI>A.\(;E, LUXEMBURG. SCIIIFl'LANCK. LUXEMBURG. ESCII, LUXK.\ir.UKG. SIREN, LUXEMBURG. SIREN, LUXEMBURG. SIREN, LUXEMBURG. CONTERN, LUXEMBURG. CONTERN. LUXEMBURG. HASSEL. LUXEMBURG. AVEILEK LT'XEMBURG. ASPKLT, LUXEMBURCL LUXE.M1'.UK(;. LUXEMl'.URG. LUXK.Mi;UK(;. LUXK.\ir.uK(;. EX, LUXK.Mr.UK<;. uange. luxemburg. ;ex. luxe.mburg. EHXEX Ell X EX EI IX EX El IX EX COSTIN WORM!' LEXXI> BEUKl BEUKI BEUKl BEUKI SCI 1(11 SEKKK IRSCII EIIXE.-^ . GKinUVXV. . (;i:k.\u\.\v. . ClMt.MA.W. . (;ek.\l\.\v. ;.\, (;i:k.ma.\v. , UEK.NUWV. (;i:k.maxv. LUXEMBURG. EllXKX, LUXK.\ir.UR(;. EHXEX, LUXEMBT'RG. EHXEX, LUXKMr.URG. COSTIX(iEX. LUXEMBT^RG. ^Y()K.MEL1)AX(;E. LUXEMBURG. LEXXIXCEX, LUXEMi:UK(;. LAKdCIIETTE. LUXEMBURG. LAKOUIIETTi:, LUXEMBURG. LAKdCllKTTi:, LUXE.Mr.UR(L LAKOCIIET'I'E. LUXEMl'.URG. HEFFIXGEX, LUXEMBURG. FISCIll'.ACIL LUXEMBURG. SCllOOS, LUXEMBURG. SCIIOOS, LUXE.MBURG. OETRIXGEX. LUXEMBURG. WECKER, LUXEMBURG. Bn. P. C. — C. & B. Cos. less 1 Plat, of B. Co. ARLON, BELGIUM. OETKAX( ;E. LT'XE:MBT'RG. WE(Ki:i{. Luxi;.Mi'.UK<;. STEUMOK'I", LUXIOMU.UKG. GODl'.KAXGE, LUXEMBURG. WECKER, LUXEMBURG, ARLOX. BELGIUM. WASSERBILLIG, LUXEMBURG. 1919 MEDERXACH. LT'XEMBURG. HEFFIXciEX. LUXE.MBURG. NOM.MEKX. LUXE.MBUK(i. WECKER, LUXEMBT'Kc;. WECKEK. LUXE.Mr.UK(;. MAX'l'EKX.U'II, LUXEMl'.URG. BET/UOKI'. LUXE.Ml'.UKi;. BEKI'.()UK<;, LUXEMi:UK(;. WECKEK, LUXE.Ml'.UKUXE-MBUK(;. BERr.()UK(;, LT'XE.Ml'.UKG. OPyrUAXCE. LUXE.Ml'.UKC. REI'LAXD, LUXEMI'.UKU. UXE.Ml'.URG. LUXEMBURG. Apr. 27th WASSEKBILLIG, 1 GREVKX>L\riIEK, MAX TEKX.VCll. WEUKEK. MAXTEKXACH. BETZr>ORP. WECKER. WORMELDANGE. GREVENMACHER. PORT OP EMBARKATION: (Arrived yUw Ist, 1919,) PORT OP EMl'.AKKATION : (Arrived Ma.v 2nd, 1919.) viii BREST, FRANCE. BREST, FRANCE. LOCATION OF P. C.'S AND UNITS— Continued UNIT DATE 3rd Bn. Apr. 28th I'OKT (Arriv I'OKT (Aniv I'ORT (Arriv I'OKT (Arriv I'OKT (Arriv POliT M. G. Co. R. H. Q. Apr. 29tll Med. Det. Sp. Co. Hq. Co. I.OC.VTION >F KMl'.AKKATIOX : BREST, FRANCE. I Mav 211(1, lUl'.l.) )F KMr.AKKATION : BREST, FRANCE. I yi:\\ 2nd. l'.»l'.».) )F EMI'.AKKATION : BREST, FRANCE. I .Miiv .Sid, 11119.) >F F.MI'.AKKATION : BREST, PRANCE. I -Mmv ■av>\. T.no.) )F FMr.AKKATIOX : BREST, FRANCE. vimI .Alav .'-trd. liU!).) )F KMr.AKKATIOX : BREST, FRANCE. <.\rriv(Ml May :-!rd, li)l!t.) LIST OF OFFICER CASUALTIES. 131ST INFANTRY. No. Rank Name Casualty Date Action Remarks 1. 2nd Lt. — Beauvais, Walter E., Co. M, Killed, Nov. 10, 1918, Bois de Harville. 2. 1st Lt.— DeVaney, Frank, Co. B, Killed, Aug. 9, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 3. 1st Lt. — Dickson, H. A., Co. F, Killed, Aug. 10, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 4. 2nd Lt. — Endes, David O., Co. E, Killed, Aug. 12, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 5. 2nd Lt. — Frieburg, Hyman, Co. E, Killed, Aug. 9, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 6. 1st Lt. — Ilackett, Harry E., Co. G, Killed, Aug. 9. 191S. Gressaire Wood. 7. 2nd Lt. — Horton, Harding F., Co. C, Killed, Oct. 12, lOlS. Boise de Chaume. 8. 2nd Lt. — Joos, William A., Co. G. Killed, Aug. li>, litis, (Jressaire Wood. 9. 2nd Lt. — Lee, John C, Co. (i. Killed, Aug. 10, I'.ils. (ircssaire Wood. 10. 1st Lt.— Marchant. .Tohn K.. Co. 1), Killed. Oct. Ki, litis. I'.ois de Chaume. 11. 2nd Lt. — Schraucr. M,-uiri<-<. \-., Cd, C, KiIIimI. Sci)t. 2i;, litis. l!e\ shr. July 4. 191s. Att.iek on llaniel. 22. 1st Lt.— Iiiek, Henry J., Co. H, Wd. s.v M.r... Aug. 9, 1918, Gress.iire Wood. 23. 2nd Lt. — Fitzp.itri.k, Frank G., Co. .M, Wd se\. (}S., Oct. 8. litis. r.,,is i\r Chaume. 24. 2nd Lt. — Fitzi)atriek, Frank G., Co. M. W.I sit shr, Aug. 17, litis, (Iressaire Wood. 25. 2nd Lt.— Frank. Christian J., Co. II. W.l/s.-v/shl, Oct. 8, 1918, Bois de Chaume. 26. 1st Lt. — ^Frisbie. Frank F.. Co. I. Wd/slt/shr, Oct. 10, 1918, Bois de Chaume. 27. Capt. — Gale. Carroll M., Co. C, Wd slt/CS, Oct. 10, 1918. Bois de Chaume. 28. 2nd Lt. — (iuilfoyle, Thomas M.. Co. 1, Wd/sev/unk, Sept. 20. 1918. Boise de Forges. 29. 2nd Lt. — Ilinkle. Benjamin 1'.. Co. L. W'.l sit shr. Nov. l(t. litis. Bois de Harville. Died 30. 2nd Lt.— Heyl, John, Co. C, Wd/scv./( ;s.. Aui;. In, litis. (Jivss.-iir.^ Wood. 31. 1st Lt. — Jefferson, Albert (i., Co. C, W.l/sev shr, .lulv 4,' litis, attack on Hamel. 32. 2nd Lt. — Johnson. Frank A.. Co. D. Wd sev/sln-, .lulv 4. litis. Mtt.i.k on Hamel. 33. 2nd Lt. — King, Harold M.. C... c. Cas/slt. Aim. 14. litis, Cressaii-.' W 1. 34. 1st Lt. — Kuehne. Albert W.. Co. K, W.l s.'v/shr. Oct. 12. litis, r„,is,. ,le Chaume. 35. 1st Lt.— Lewis, Kavinoiid 1-., Co. K.. Shell slik, Oct s. litis, i;,,js i\r Cbaunie 36. 2nd Lt.— Lyon. Cleim L., MM., (ias/slt, Oct. 12. litis, li.iis de Cbanme. 37. 2nd Lt. — Nichols, Halton L., Co. H. Wd/slt/tiS.. Oct. Id, litis. r„)is de Chaume. 38. 1st Lt. — Murphv. Glenn C, Co. E, Gas/sit, Oct. 11. litis, r.ois .le Cliauni.'. 39. Capt. — Preston, Louis B., Co. B, Gas/sev, Oct. 17, litis, B,,is .!.■ Cbanme. 40. 2nd Lt. — ^Pluiumer, Elmer R., Co. E, Wd/sev/shr, July 4, litis, att.ick ..n Ilamel. 41. Capt. — -Porter, Charles M., Co. E, Gas/sev, Oct. 10, 191s, p.ois .le ch.iunie. 42. 2nd Lt. — Postal. Harrv F., Co. A. Wd/sev/M.G., Aug. it, litis, Cressaire Wood. 43. 1st Lt. — Ruesnow, Edward L., Co. (}. Wd/sev/shl, Aug. 9, 1918, (4ressaire Wood. 44. 1st Lt.— Schultz. Willi.ani .).. C... L. W.l 'slt/GS., Sept. 20, 1918, Boise de Forges. 45. 1st Lt.— Shantz, .los.]di K.. ::i-.l r.ii.. W.l/sev/shr, Oct. 10, 1918, Bois de Chaume. 46. 2nd Lt. — Shi'iwooil, C.dine K.. C... (;, Wd/sev/shl, Oct. 8, 1918, Bois de Chaume. 47. 2nd Lt. — Spencer. Ja s C., ('.,. 1',. W.l slt/shl, Oct. 10, 1918, Bois de Chaume. 48. 1st Lt. — Stores, Kichard M.. Co. F, W.l/sev. M.G., Nov. 11, 1918, Boise de Harville. 49. 2nd Lt. — Pinto. Kene W.. Wd/,sev shl. Aug. 9, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 50. 2nd Lt. — Schmidt, (ieorge F., Co. F, Wd/slt, Aug. 9, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 51. 1st Lt.— Slack, John W., Co. I, Gas/sit, Sept. 26, 1918, Bois de Forges. 52. 1st Lt. — Tapper, Charles P., Co. C, Wd/slt/shl, Aug. 12, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 53. 1st Lt. — Thompson. Walter C, Co. A, Wd/sev/GS., Oct. 9, 1918, Bois de Chaume. 54. 2nd Lt.— Tillson, Frank, Co. H, Gas/.sev. Oct. 11, 1918, Bois de Chaume, 55. 1st Lt, — Weimer, Herman II., Co. II, Wd/unk/M.G., July 4, 1918, attack on Hamel. 56. 1st Lt. — Weimer, Herman II., Co. II. Wd/slt/unk, Oct. 8, 1918, Bois de Chaume. 57. 2nd Lt. — Westman, Robert C. Co. F. Wd/sev/shl, Aug. 10, 1918, Gressaire Wood. 58. 1st Lt. — Westermaii. Lawrence, Co. M. Wd/sev/shl, Aug. 10. 191s, Gressaire Wood. 59. 2nd Lt.— Wliitnev, Francis W., Co. C. Wd/slt/unk. Oct. 11, 191s, Bois de Chaume. 60. 2nd Lt. — Wilson," .Milton E., Co. I, (Jas/slt. Aug. Kt. litis, Cressaire Wood. 61. 2nd Lt.— Zust. Ernest A., Co. F, Wd/sev/GS., Aug. 9. 1918, Gressaire Wood. 62. Capt.— Gano, Henry A., Co. I, Gas/sev, Oct. 10, Bois de Forges. ix CASUALTY TABLE— BY ENGAGEMENTS— (OFFICERS). Date Engagement Killed July 4, 1918 — AMIENS SECTOR (attack on Hamel) July 27 to Aug. 8, 1918 — ALBERT SECTOR (defense of) Aug. 9 to 2(». litis -SO-M ME OFFENSIVE (Gressairc \V,„,.l. Chipilly Uidge) 7 Sept. 26 to <»71."i(), I'vt. Co. <; — (iassed. Comer, Donald, L'sccscs, Pvt. Co. F — Missing to wounded. 11/10/18. Esser, Werner J., 2S(;sl(i.s, Pvt. Co. F— Missing to sick — Tr. to Repl. Div. 11/24/19. Villordi, Anthony, 4086.554, Pvt. Co. F — Missing, 11/10/18. Hridhammer, Sverre, 1388291, Pvt. Co. K — Missing to Gassed, 11/10/18. PRISONERS. ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE. Attack on BOIS do CIIAl'MK. Oct. 9th & 10th, 1918: Brewer, John S.. 2s7;^(i7.5, I'vt. Co. G — Released (Auth. 33rd Div.). Ball, Ernest T.. I's-.isni;, Pvt. Co. G — Returned to Duty, 12/16/18. Bees, p:veretr. •_'(i9ili;i4. I'vt. Co. G — Returned to Duty, 12/2/18. Cobbs. Ilennan K.. i:9C.S(i(ii;, I'vt. Co. (J^I'risoner to sick B.II.109. 1/6/19. Fairchild, Herbert F.. li'.ir.C'.HHl, I'vt. Co. L — Prisoner to sick B.H.76, 12/24/18. Hotchkiss. Waltir, 1;-!s7(;'.m;, Mi-cli. Co. (i — Prisoner to wounded, 12/28/18. Goe, Clvde, ;^17.".o!»G, I'vt. Co. D— Returned to duty, 12/4/lS. Kanne. William, 13SS294, I'vt. Co. K — Returned to duty, 1/12/19. Mambourg, Frank J.. i:-!S,s433. Pvt. Co. L — Missing to prisoner. Muhlke, Orin II., 1887771, I'vt. Co. (i— Prisoner to sick^B.H.76. 1/24/19. Rettinger, Martin A., 2060993, Pvt. Co. (J — Prisoner to sick — B.H.I, 12/14/18. Rorah, Clyde F., 3490928, Pvt. Co. (; Released (Auth. 33rd Div.). Schwab, Edward A., 1387787, Pvt. Co. (J— Released (Auth. 33rd Div.). Villano, Ralph D., 2055246. I'vt. Co. G — Released (Auth. 33rd Div.). Weslev, Jam.'s. 2()(i5246. Pvt. Co. G— Released (Auth. 33rd Div.). Westfall, Frank, I'vt. Co. F — Returned to duty, 12/2/18. ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE. Attacks on Bois de HARVILLE Nov. 10th, 1918 : Anderson, Lerov, 1st Sgt. Co. I — Prisoner to Relea.sed (Through Justice Henencourt — B.H.). Dunford, George M., 1st Lt. Co. I — Returned to duty, 11/19/18. Douglas, Julian L., 1st Lt. Co. G — Returned to duty, 11/19/18. Total Missing 18 Total Prisoners 19 Total Missing and Prisoners, Nov. 11, 1919 37 RECAPITULATION, MAR. 30, 1919. Missing : From Mis.sing to killed 3 Prom Missing to wounded -i From Missing to gassed 2 From Missing to Sk in IIosp 4 From Missing to prisoner 4 Still Missing 1 Total 18 ENGAGEMENTS AMIENS SECTOR (Attack on Ilamel) SOMMK OFFENSIVE (JUKSSAIKK WOOD & ClUI'ILLY KIDGE AlU ; ON N E-ME I ' SE OFFENSIVE West of the MEUSE ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE East of the MEUSE iL>nil I'.n. attached t i:-!2iid Inf. > AK(;()NNi;-MEUSE OFFFXSIVE East of the MEUSE (1st and ;-trd r.ns.) AR(;()X\E-MEUSE OFFENSIVE TROYON SECTOR TOTAL ADVANCES 131ST INF. REGT. TERRAIN Rolling, hilly & wooded with flats near south ;ind cast banl< of SOMME River Steep hills & wooded terrain north & west banlv of the SOMME RIVER Swamp at foot of MORT IIOMME, Forges creek, then rolling hills with patches of wood to flats west hank of MEUSE between Bois de FORGES & Hois JURE Steep slopes east of MEUSE River flats Steep hills & deep ravines heavily wooded and thick underlu-iish through Bois de CHAUME & Bois DuPLAT CHENE Flat Marsh & open plain cut by small streams at far end of which was dense woods and underbrush in Bois De Les HtesEPINES, Bois de WARVILLE, Bois d'HARVILLE & LeVACHERE Bois DATE METERS July 4, 1918 3000 Aug. 9-10, 1918 411.5 Aug. 13, 1918 Sept. 20, 1918 Oct. 8. 1918 Oct. 10. 1918 2500 1918 4000 ENEMY GUNS AND MATERIAL CAPTURED 131ST INF. REGT. ENGAGEMENTS AMIENS SECTOR (Attack on IIAMEL) June 4, 1918 SOMME OFFENSIVE 2 GRESSAIKE WOOD & CIIII'ILLV KIIxiE Aug. !l t(i 19, U.llS .AKGONXK-MKUSE 3 OFFENSIVE West of tlic MEUSE Sept. 20/Oct. 9, 1918 Light Trench Mach. Art. Mortars Guns 3 25 ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE East of the MEUSE Oct. 10 to 14, 1918 ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE (TRYON SECTOR) Nov. 7 to 11, 1918 MATERIAL Note figures taken on basis of V^ of total of M. G. & T. M's cap- tured which corresponds to the percentage of 131 to total forces engaged. ■ 1 German Airplane. Equipment, Ammunition, Rifles & Material not counted. 1 Narrow gauge R. R. Sup. Tracks & Sidings 14 Cars Flat 5 Cars Gravel 8 Cars Box 1 Motor .\mbulance 1 Large Supply Depot (partial contents listed) 13(1.5(10 S. A. A. (German) 000 3" Shells 750 Werf Grenades 7900 Hand Grenades 4150 Signals .& Flares 10000 Pieces Lumber 14000 Spikes 8000 Stands, Barbed Wire 900 Picks 400 Shovels Enormous amounts of R. R. Ties, Wire, Screens, Duck Boards, Pa- per, Signal Supplies, Gasoline Mo- tors, etc. 19 Autoinatic Rifles (Lewis) 1750 77.\LM Shells 10(1 Trench Mnrtar Shells 7200(1 S. A. A. ((iernian) 30000 Lewis (iuu Aniniunltion 1000 Hand Grenades Large amounts of clothing & equipment not salvaged for lack of time and men TOTALS 210 xii ENEMY PRISONERS CAPTURED 131ST INF. REGT. ENGAGEMENTS AMIEXS SECTOR (Attack on HAMEL) SOMME OFEEXSIVE (iKESSAIHE WOOD & CHIPILLY RIlXiE ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE West of the MEl'SE AK(;()NNK-.MEUSE OFFENSIVE E.ist of the .MEUSE ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE TROYON SECTOR July 4, 1918 Aug. & Aug. 10, 191.- Sei)t. 2(5 to Oct. 9, 1918 Oct. 10 to Oct. 15, 1918 Nov. 7 to Nov. 11, 1918 REMARKS Captured \>y Company ('. 150 and by Co. K 4 Ortic.T.s, 2,S9 Men (from re- ports of ('apt. (iaif and ("apt. Welmer) no r.ritish report avajlaljle From estimated reports Bn. Comman- ders cV: Retitl. Intel. Ofcr. of prisoners forwarded to British, P. of W. Cage no i'.ritish rep. 27 CODE CALLS 131ST INFANTRY. COMPANY CALLS. Hdqrs. Co CHICAGO M. G. Co BOSTON A. Co NEW YORK B. Co ST. LOUIS C. Co DETROIT D. Co CINCINNATI E. Co MILWAUKEE F. Co SAN FRANCISCO (i. Co PHILADELPHIA II. Co DENVER I. Co OMAHA K. Co LITTLE ROCK L. Co PEORIA M. Co GALVESTON T. M. Plat. CANNON PLAT. BRITISH CODE CALLS. 131st Infantry Liaison Forces. ST.\TION CODE CALLS — Liaison Force, H. Q PEMI. 13tli Austr. Inf. Bde RUVO. 13th A. I. Bde. Sig. Co PEPU. 49th Battalion (JOJE. 50th Battalion (JOZE. 51st Batt;ilioii (JONE. 13th A. L. T. M. r.tv HIOI. D. Co.. 13tli .\. M. (i. Bn ZOR'A. 131st Aincrican Inf. Regt PENO. 1st Bn PEKO. 2nd Bn PESO. 3rd Bn PEMO. 124th American M. G. Bn PEDO. 1st Company PEBO. 2nd Company PEFO. 3rd Company PETO. 4th Company PEGO. LIAISON FORCE— 5Sth Div. Arty. Ilq MUFO. 290th Bde. R. F. A GUZE. "A," Battery GUNE. "B" Battery GUKB. "C" Battery GUSB. "D" Battery GUMB. 291st Bde. R. F. A GUWE. "A" Battery GURB. "B" Battery GUPB. "C" Battery GUQE. "D" Battery GUDE. 5Sth Bde. R. H. A PENB. 13th Aust. Field Ambulance JAJU. 13th Field Co. Aust. Engrs GIDO. 27th Co. 4th Aust. Div. Train WAFO. LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS VOLUME. 1st Sgt. — first sergeant A. C. — ambulance company A. D. C.^ — aide de camp Adj. — adjutant A, D. M. >s. — division adjutant mobile sec- tion A. D. S. — advanced dressing station Adv. Gd. — advance guard Aero Sq. — aei'o squadron A. G.^ — adjutant general .\. I. Bde. — Australian Infantry Brigade. Bde. — brigade B. H. — base liospital Bn. — battalion Bn. Sgt. Maj. — battalion sergeant major C. — chief C. A. S. — chief of air service C. R. A. — reserve corps artillery Capt. — captain Cav. — cavalry Cav. Div. — cavalry division C. C. W. S. — chemical warfare service Cent. — central C. G. — conunandlng general Co. — company D. A. — divisional artillery Dep. — depot Detach. — detachment E. — east Eng. — English F. O. — field order Fr. Miss. — French mission (Jd. — guard (ien. — general G. II. Q. — general headquarters H. A. — heavy artillery Hdq. Com. — headquarters company H. E. — high explosive I. G. ■ — ^inspector general Inf. — infantry J. A. — judge advocate L. A.— light artillery Lt. — lieutenant Lt. Col. — lieutenant colonel Maj. — major Mech. — mechanic M. G. — machine gun M. G. O. — machine gun ofiicer — Minus — Usually found in orders Mgs. — magazines N. — north O. C. — commanding oflBcer O.O. — operations order Opr. O. — operations officer P. C. — post of command Pdrs. — pounders Plat. — platoon -|- Plus — usually found in orders P. M. — afternoon Q. M. quartermaster Royal Berkshire A. P. O. — American post ofiice A. M. — morning- Am. — ammunition Amb. — ambulance Am. Inf. — American infantry Am. Tn. — ammunition train Approx. — approximately Art. — artillery Asst. C. of S. — assistant chief of staff Aus.-Aust. — Australian Brig. — brigade Brig. F. A. — field artillery brigade Brig. Gen. — brigadier general Brit. — British C. O. — commanding oflicer C. O. O. — chief ordnance officer C. of S. — chief of staff Col. — colonel Comdg. — commanding Comd'r — commander Coy. — company Cpl. — corporal C. Tn. — combat train Div. — infantry division Divl. — divisional DT. — detachment 'gulations R. Berks.- Rd.-;— road R. E. — royal engineers Regt. — regiment Res. — reserve Engrs. — engineers E. O. — engineer officer F. S. R. — field service F. Tn.— field train G. O. — general order G. O. C. — general officer commanding Hq. or Hdq. — headquarters Hosp. — hospital Hows. — howitzers Int'l — intelligence I. O. — intelligence officer Lon. — Loudon li. T. M. — light trench mortars M. I'. — military police M. T. — motor transport M. T. S. — motor transport service Mus. Icl. — musician first class Mus. 2cl. — musician second class Mus. 3cl. — musician third class N. C. O. — non-commissioned officer O. P. — observation post O. Rs. — other ranks P. M. — post master P. of W. — prisoner of war Pvt. — private Pvt. Icl. — private first class R. F. A. — royal field artillery R. G. A. — general reserve artillery Rgt. Sgt. Maj. — regimental sergeant major Reg. Sp. Sgt. — regimental supply sergeant ABBEEVIATIONS— Continued S south S. O. — special order S' A A. — small arms ammunition S. O. S. — service of supply : battle signal for Sad.— saddler artillery barrage, etc. Sec. — section Sp. — supply Sec. G. S. — general staff section Sp. Sgt. — supply sergeant Sep. Brig. — separate brigade Stat. O. — statistical officer Sgt. — sergeant St. Sgt. — stable sergeant Sig. O.— signal officer Sup. O.— supply officer Sigs.— signals Surg.— surgeon Sn. — sanitary T. M. — trench mortar T. O. — transport officer Tn. — train W. — west Wag. — wagoner NOTE. — If difficulty is experienced in locating the definition of abbreviations, divide the letters, thus — O. C. R. E. would be found under O. C. — commanding officer ; R. E. — royal engineers. BRIEF EXPLANATION OF MILITARY OR BATTLE MAPS Military maps, or "Battle Maps," of the armies of the Allies used by the 131st Infantry, and reproduced in black in this volume are pro- jected from a sphere to a flat surface by the Lambert system. The accu- racy of the maps projected by this system can be appreciated when it is known that the amount of error is only from 2 to 3 meters for each 10 kilometers. The point of origin of the British maps is Brussels, Belgium, that of the French maps is Treves, Germany. From the point of origin, co-ordinate lines are drawn north and south and east and west, which divide the maps into sections. The basis of divisions on the British maps is 1,000 yard squares, that of the French is 1,000 meter squares. The scales of "Battle Maps" are 1:40,000; 1:20,000; 1:10,000, and have different uses, meaning that one part on the map represents 40,000 ; 20,000 ; or 10,000 parts on the ground. The 1 :40,000 is used by head- quarters and staff officers. The 1 :20,000 by the artillery to fire on enemy positions and by regimental, battalion and other commanders for plans and strategical moves. The 1 :10,000 is an enlargement of the 1 :20,000, but with greater detail for use of company and platoon leaders. All maps are known by a name. British maps are known by its sub- division, this being from a plat of the entire war area of France and Belgium. The British map most used in the operations of the 131st In- fantry is known as the 62 D 1:40,000, or 62 D N.E. and S.E. 1:20,000. French maps are named after the largest town upon it, or from its most principal feature, as Verdun B 1 :20,000, or Vigneulles B 1 :20,000. A com- plete map reference will contain name of map followed by map co-ordi- nates ; example, Verdun B 1 :20,000 32.9-46.5. In the headings of all field orders and in messages of importance, the name of the map on which the point, or points, referred to in the order, or message, is stated, for instance : Map sheet 62 D 1 :40,000, or map sheet Verdun B 1 :10,000, etc. EXPLANATION OF MAPS— Continued Battle maps are printed in colors, approximately 24x34 inches. Battle maps are contoured maps, meaning that thie vertical interval on the ground is represented on the map by a continuous line or contour following a definite level or elevation above sea level, thus giving a very clear idea of the formation of the terrain. To note the vertical interval used on any map look for the number on two successive contours and the difference gives the vertical or contour interval used on that map. On British maps it is reckoned in feet, on French maps in meters. Conventional signs are used on all maps to represent various fea- tures of the terrain and artificial objects placed thereon. Conventional signs differ somewhat on French and British maps. (For definitions of conventional signs see Sketches 3 and 4, Pages xxii and xxiii. ) True north and magnetic north are represented by arrows printed in a conspicuous position on the map. The variation in degrees for the part of the country represented on the map is shown. Co-ordinate lines are not true north and south lines. To locate a point on any military map always remember to begin reading from left to right on vertical co-ordinates, then from bottom to top on horizontal co-ordinates. See Sketches 1 and 2, Page xxi. CONVEESION TABLE FOR YAEDS AND METERS 1 meter (M.), 39.3685 in., 1.0936 yds. 1 kilometer (K.M.), 3280.7 ft., 1093.6 yds. For approximate calculation assume : . 1 meter, 40 inches. 10 meters, 11 yards. 1600 meters, 1 mile. 1 kilometer, % mile. 8 kilometers, 5 miles. To convert meters to yards, add 1.10. To convert yards to meters, subtract 1.11. ' READING OF CO-ORDINATES ON BRITISH MAPS British maps are divided into large rectangles, and are lettered in capitals A, B, C, etc. These are divided again into squares of 1,000 yards side, which are numbered 1, 2, 3, etc., up to 30. Each of these squares are subdivided into four minor squares of 500 yards side. These minor squares are considered as lettered a, b, e, d (small letters). From left to right in the top row a, b, and from left to right in the bottom row c, d. A point may thus be described as lying within squares B 6 a or M 5 b, etc. To locate a point within a small a, b, c or d square, consider the sides divided into tenths and define the point by taking so many tenths from west to east, along southern side, and so many from south to north along the western side (the top of the map is always north). The lower left hand corner (southwest) is always the point from which the count begins, or origin. The distance along the southern side is always given by the first figure. Thus, to read the point X (K30c73) see Sketch No. 1 (British Map), read the capital letter rectangle (K) first, then the number of the square (30) within the capital lettered rectangle, then the small lettered square (e) within the numbered square, considering the small lettered square subdivided into tenths read from left to right, along lower edge of small lettered square to the point located in tenths (7), then read up as many tenths as necessary to exact point (3). The point will then be at K30c73. When more accurate definition is wanted use exactly the same method, but divide sides into 100 divisions instead of tentlis, and use four figures instead of two. Thus, point Y (K30al557) denotes 15 parts east and 57 parts north of origin. Point Z is K3b0295. Use either two or four figures. Fractions are not used such as 81/2, 4^2, etc. If the point does not lie where it can be located by subdivision of tenths then subdivisions of hundredths are used. See Sketch No. 1 attached. READING OF CO-ORDINATES ON A FRENCH MILITARY MAP French Battle maps are divided into quadrangles or squares of 1,000 meters, or 1 kilometer distances by the intersection of co-ordinates or grid lines. The divisions start from point of origin (Treves, Germany), and are numbered consecutively from west to east and from south to north. No two co-ordinates in one direction bear the same number, or is it re- peated on any French battle map. The vertical grid lines or co-ordinates are sometimes referred to as the ' ' abscissa " or X co-ordinates, the horizontal grid lines as ' ' ordinates ' ' or Y co-ordinates. READING OF CO-ORDINATES— Continued The top of all maps is approximately north. No grid line is true north, except the co-ordinate or abscissa passing through Treves. The error then accumulates east and west, and is the difiPerence between true north, as indicated by an arrow in a conspicuous place on the map, and the abscissa or vertical co-ordinates. To establish the co-ordinates for a point within a square on a French map assume that each kilometer square is divided into 100 smaller squares; in other words, that each abscissa and ordinate line is divided into tenths and lines drawn parallel to them. These lines may be laid out by the individual on the map square itself, or measured by the eye or a celluloid or paper scale divided into 100 smaller squares may be pre- pared and used. Using the numbered co-ordinates printed on the edges of French maps, as a basis, to locate the point required 429.6-290.3 (see Sketch No. 2, point A), begin reading the vertical map co-ordinate on the bot- tom edge from left to right till X co-ordinate 429. is reached, then read up on left hand edge of map until Y co-ordinate 290. is reached. Where these two co-ordinates meet is the lower left hand corner of the square in which the point is situated. To further locate points .6 and .3, lay off 6/10 of a kilometer along lower edge of this square along co-ordinate 290. from 429. co-ordinate, this point will then read 429.6-290.0, then from point 429.6-290.0 lay off 3/10 of a kilometer at right angles to- ward top of map. This point will then be located at 429.6-290.3. For greater accuracy the kilometer squares can be subdivided into 1,000 smaller squares by dividing each abscissa and ordinate line into hundredths and drawing parallel lines to them. Point B, Sketch No. 2, reads: 429.08-290.47, and point C, Sketch No. 2, reads: 429.65-290.03. As it is seldom that any battle map in use in any army sector covers more than 10 kilometers of ground, a system shortening the number of numerals referring to a map location was adopted by dropping the first numeral of each co-ordinate to save time and work in transmitting mes- sages and to minimize errors. Example No. 1— Point A, Sketch No. 2. Complete map reference, 429.6-290.3. Abbreviated map reference, 29.6-90.3. Example No. 2— Point B, Sketch No. 2. Complete map reference, 429.08-290.47. Abbreviated map reference, 29.08-90.47. Example No. 3— Point C, Sketch No. 2. Complete map reference, 429.65-290.03. Abbreviated map reference, 29.65-90.03. TRANSLATION OF ABBREVIATIONS USED ON FRENCH MAPS Abbreviation French Term English Meaning Bois Bois Wood Deversoir Deversoir Incline Rau. Ravine Ravine Cimre. Cimeterie Cemetery Vanne Vanne Water-gate; sluice Ecluse Ecluse Lock Tr. Trancliee Trench Boy. Boyau Tube ; acqueduct Passlle. Passerelle Pass ; passage Fme. Ferme Farm Haut or Hts. Haut-Hauts Height or Heights Cote Cote Side or Hill Etang Etang Lake Chau. Chateau Chateau Chnee. Cheminee Chimney Eg-se. Eglise Church (Catholic) Temple Temple Church (Protestant) Ft. Foret Forest Lte. Lette Swamp Magin. Magasin Storehouse Mgne. Montague Mountain P. Pont Bridge Ps. Puits Well Vacie. Yacherie Cowbarn ; dairy Briqie. Briqueterie Brickyard K30al55r - K30c75 429 BRITISM MAP SYSTEM Sketch no. 1 430 29\^rf 290 / 429.08 ~Z90.4r READ 29.08 -30. -^7 429.6 ~ 290.3 READ 29.6-90,3 ^29.&5 -290.03 READ 29.£S -90.03 -« 1 KILOMETER READ FROM'LF-FT TO RIGHT FIRST / 429 French Map System ^^^ P0U1T OF ORI&irs c^ M- p or SQUARE ^29.- ont-rcH no. tc 2S0. FROn WHICH TO LOCATE. POINTS WITHIM IT 290 CONVENTIONAL SIGNS COMMON TO British andfrencm military maps SKETCH Na 3 Churches Buildin^^b Walter mill ^ Windmill - Cemetary . Marshes ^ norm rwm^. in rums- o Road fills Poad Cuts - Steep Slopes Bridges Dug Outs orMu-ls Encampments. Munitions Stores, Wagon Parks etc-^ Wire Entanglements Contour lines Streams Rivers L u-LU-U-TPj 1 1 ITi 1 1 ij 1 1 ri^jj^jU^KujSO f^trnTrrT7YnTTTTrr^^^ i |[ii i| ii|ii 'n ■ cCb t£] XXXXXXVXXXX Tranches' Pfincipa-l corriTTi icahng rrench •5cc9nda.t>3- co In cor\ friA.c-hoa ^ -^ CONVENTIONAL SIGNS IN RED BATTLE POSITIONS Com mand joosts First Aid Station Machine G-un. Trench Mortar — Pe^imental . Battalion Companyj , 6 Chimnev/ Cons|DicuoL»6 Haystack Cultivated Land CONVENTIONAL SIGNS ON BRITISH MAPS ONLY SKETCH N2 4 © Ch^ Woods or Treee &ur Emjolacements First Aid Station Q Q^ e ^ Wrecked Track THoitional Raotes SeconcI C)ab,s Farrn Roads Fort ''''''' ° • o « •> -s—s—a- -5 4 — -t-rtte^ — ^/Ti i||r|i[MMiMiiiM,.o o » a-c-o c 6 xxiii Interesting Incidents in the History of the FIRST REGIMENT INFANTRY, ILLINOIS NATIONAL GUARD 1874 — First meeting August 25t]i ; organized September 8th, with Companies A, B and C. Frank Sherman elected first Colonel — State Street Armory. 1875 — Lake Street Armory occupied in January. Regiment's first service, on account of riots, February 12th. First parade and presentation of colors May 13th. 1876 — A. C. IMcClurg elected Colonel. In camp at Madison, Wis., July 4, 5 and 6. Train wrecked en route home. 1877 — Inauguration of Gov. Shelby M. Cullom. Entered State Service Illinois National Guard July 1st. In service during railroad riots July 26th and 27th and Coal Miners' Strikes, Braidwood, July 28th to 31st. W. G. Scherer, Acting Colonel. 1878 — Cornerstone of Jackson Street Armory laid May 18th and dedi- cated October 29th. Part of Regiment at G. A. R. encampment, Terre Haute, Ind., July ith. Edgar D. Swain elected Colonel. 1879 — In service during Stock Yards riots, December 25th and 26th. 1880 — Host to Continental (Juards of New Orleans. Camp at Lake LaBelle, Wis. 1881 — Springfield, January 10th. Inauguiation of Gov. Shelby M. Cul- lom. Entertained Boston Lanciers and Albany Burgess Corps. 1882 — Chas. Fitzsimons elected Colonel and, on his promotion later, elected E. B. Knox. 1883-1884-1885-1886-1887-1888-1889— In camp at various places. 1886 — Stockyards riots in November. 1889— C. R. E. Koch elected Colonel. 1890 — Cornerstone of 16th Street Armory laid July 12th. 1891 — New Armory occupied September 8th. 1892— Camp, Springfield. 1893 — Armory destroyed by fire April 24th. Escort to President Cleveland, World's Columbian Exposition, May 1st. Henry L. Turner elected Colonel. 1894 — Coal Miners' strike, Pana, June 6th-7th. Great strikes, Pullman, July 6th-27th ; 33 days of duty. Armory rebuilt and occupied second time October 9th. 1895 — Memorial services Confederate INIonument, Oakwoods, May 30th. Trip through the South November 8th to 18th. 1896-1897— Camp at Springfield. 1898 — War with Spain. Service April 26th to November 17th. In active service in Cuba, Col. Henry L, Turner. Joseph B. San- born elected Colonel. 1899-1900-1901— Camp at Springfield. XXV INTERESTING INCIDENTS— Continued 1901 — Escort to Gov. Yates, Buffalo Exposition, October. Funeral of President McKinley. Chicago parade. 1902-1903-1904— Camp at Camp Logan and Springfield. 1904^— St. Louis Exposition, July 16th to 23rd. 1905— Camp, Springfield. 1906— Trip through South, October 24th to October 31st. 1907— Camp, Springfield. 1908 — Riots, Springfield, August 15th to 19th. Camp. Ft. Benjamin Harrison, Ind., September 11th to 21st. 1909 — Guard at Auto Races, Crown Point, Ind., June 17th-19th. Camp. Elgin. Entertained Veteran Corps. 1910— Camp, Peoria. 1911— Escort to President Taft, Springfield, February 11th. National Military Tournament, Chicago, July 23rd-29th. Many prizes won. 1912-1913-1914— Camp, Springfield. 1915 — Trip to California Exposition. 1916 — Mexican troubles, Camp Wilson. Ft. Sam Houston, Texas, and Border Service. 1917— Called into the Federal Service. 1918 — War with Germany. 1919— Returned to U. S. and Demobilized. CHAPTER I THE CALL TO ARMS 1917 March 2(>th. Although it was generally expected that the Natiunal Guard of the liiiited States would be called into service for duty in the world war, nevertheless when the call came there ensued a period of several days when the men were filled with excitement and anticipation. The first orders to the First Regiment Infantry, Illinois National Guard, were received by the commanding officer from the governor of the state of Illinois over the telephone, at 5 :26 a. m., to the eflfect that the regiment would assemble at once and report to the Commanding General, Central Department, U. S. A., for duty. These orders were transmitted also by telephone to the regimental adjutant and majors commanding battalions. The hour set for assembly was 1 o'clock, that day, at the regimental armory, Sixteenth Street and Michigan boulevard, Chicago, at which time 47 officers and 725 other ranks reported for duty out of a total strength of 50 officers and 874 other ranks. Men missing were principally those that could not be reached by telephone, or squad leaders, and others absent from the city or sick. Assembly was in uniform with full equipment so far as such equip- ment had been furnished. When the men put on their uniforms many of them little dreamed it was to be the last time they would wear citizens' clothing again for a period of more than two years, or that they were to carry their arms and wear their uniforms along almost the entire l)attle front of France, through Alsace-Lorraine and over the German border. That night, except for guards j^laced on the armory, every one was given the opportunity to return home with his personal effects, clothing, etc., with orders to report at a specified hour the following day for duty. In the meantime, the commanding officer reported to Major General Thomas H. Barry, Commanding the Central Department, and was advised that the regiment was assigned to the guarding of the power plants furnishing light and power to the city of Chicago, at Lockport and Joliet, the navigable waters south of the city, including the Calumet river and drainage canal ; also the railroad bridges south to the Indiana state line. Orders to cover various points with guards were issued from 1 2 KAILROAI) (KTAKDW 1917 day to (lay ; when received, reeoniiaissanee was made as to the re(iuire- iiients of each situation, arrangements perfected for housing the guards, distributing- rations and making periodical inspections. These details required a vast amount of labor, in which the commanding officer was ably assisted by Majors Abel Davis and John V. Clinnin, who were called upon to supervise the areas assigned to their respective battalions. This work involved the making of maps and sketches, constructing shelter for detached groups, arranging for water and ration supplies at points dis- tant from any railroad station or passable roads, and many other details requiring considerable resourcefulness. No boats were allowed to tie up near bridges across the drainage canal or the Calumet river, which required watchfulness, as a great number of pleasure craft, motor boats and barge owners or occupants of such up to that time had stopped wherever they pleased, and proceeded at will. These boats were all required to carry passes which entitled them to proceed to ditt'erent points upon establishing their identity. No one was allowed to cross railroad bridges, except workmen in the performance of their duties. This restriction caused considerable trouble, especially in cases of workmen employed in nearby industrial plants. Frequently foreigners, some of whom were unable to speak the English language, were in the haliit of using these bridges to save walking long distances. In a single instance did serious trouble occur ; on the night of May 30th, at the Dalton Bridge, a man assaulted a sentinel, knocking him down with a stone. Following the attack the assailant ran across the bridge, but was shot as he reached the other side. It developed sub- sequently that the man had recently been liberated from an insane asylum. Doubtless he was not in his right mind. Near Argo, where are located extensive starch works, and at which point railroad bridges crossed the Desplaines river, sentinels were fired upon from the bushes along the river several times but none was injured. March 28th commenced the distribution of detachments to the various points they were to occupy, Companies E and G, Second Battalion, Maj. John V. Clinnin commanding, being sent to Joliet and Lockport May 8th. Company F joined the command at the same point May 24th. Guards were placed on railroad bridges at the following points : Pennsylvania Railway, Twentieth street and Stewart avenue; Pennsylvania Railway, Marshall boulevard and Western avenue, N. Y. C. and B. & 0. at Ninety- fifth street and South Chicago avenue, E., J. & E. Railway at the mouth of the Calumet river, B. & O. Railway at Chicago river, south of Grand Central Station ; Illinois Central Railway, Thirty-third street and Kedzie avenue; C. & W. L, Pennsylvania and N. Y. C. & St. L. Railways, near One Hundred and Twenty-fifth street and Torrence avenue ; C. & W. I. 1917 DECLARATION OF A STATE OF WAR CAPT. (iEORGE R. MILLER, Adjutaut CAPT. SEVERRA A. STEN^^ON, Personiit-l Adjutant CAPT. GEORGE N. MALSTROM, Operations Oflicfr CAPT. EDGAR J. EMERICK. Intelligence OfHcer Railway at crossing' of Calumet river, One Hundred and Thirty-fifth street and Indiana avenue; B. & 0. C. T. and I. H. B. Railways at Argo; A., T. & S. F. Railway at Forty-fifth street and Oak Park avenue ; Belt Railway over Illinois and Michigan Canal and Drainage Canal at West P^'orty-first and South Forty-sixth streets ; Michigan Central Railway over the Calumet river, near One Hundred and Thirty-eighth street and Dalton road. These detachments averaged in strength about four non- commissioned officers and twelve privates. Some were housed in tents, but the majority in old freight cars or temporary houses built by the rail- roads. All were connected by telephone with regimental headquarters at Sixteenth street and Michigan boulevard. The duties of these guards were light, but situated as they were in isolated places, distant from street ears, the men soon became lonesome, and for that reason changes were frequently made. April 2nd. On this date announcement was received that the Presi- dent of the United States had signed the resolution declaring that a state of war existed between the United States and Germany. This announcement was received with enthusiasm by the men, many of whom were taken away from us in the subsequent elimination of those who had dependents — wives, mothers or children. These included many 4 CAMP AT CICPJKU 1917 who liad served for yetirs, and who had seen service the year before at Fort Sam Houston. They were trained soldiers, the finest of onr volunteers. April 25th. Camp was established on West Twelfth street, Cicero, at the Chicago Driving' Park, to take care of horses and mules shipped from the south, completing the regimental transportation. In the meaii- time the state authorities had shipped from Springfield wagons and tentage. The government was daily delivering ch)thing and equipment, and by the end of the month troops were in shape to care for themselves anywhere. Company M, third battalion, machine gun company, headquarters company and teamsters were sent to this camp to care for the animals. Later the advisability of removing the entire command from the armory became apparent, as for sanitary reasons ; the camp was enlarged, streets graded, and latrines built. The camp was under command of Major Abel Davis. From this camp over the switch of the Belt "railway all subsequent movements of troops were made. The camp itself was a model, with a spacious corral, wide, hard rolled, graveled streets, running- water, electric lights, baths and other conveniences. The pride of the camp was a fine lawn in front of the commanding officers' headquarters, graded perfectly level, planted with lawn grass a] id hedged around with beds of beautiful flowers, the gift of the West Park Commissioners. Here parades and drills were the order of the day, -and on Sundays people came for miles to see the soldiers. Prior to moving into this camp the proprietor of the Sherman House of Chicago sent one of his best chefs to the armory with competent assistants, who conducted a school of cooking, from which all mess sergeants and cooks graduated ; consequently, when camp ranges were set up under canvas shelter, the culinary operations in progress, the mess line became a spot of ever-increasing interest to the thousands of housewives who came to wonder at the cleanliness, the comfort, and the completeness of it all. Men were fed on long tables in the open, extending the entire length of the camp on the Twelfth street side. When all were seated and the neatly dressed kitchen helpers served the food it was a sight which excited the wonder and admiration of all visitors. Through the courtesy of Judge Henry Horner, of Chicago, floors were placed in the tents. The government provided cots for the men. The men themselves took pride in keeping their quarters clean, and in every way the camp was a credit to the officers wiio planned and completed it. May 8th. A complete examination was conducted of non-commis- sioned officers for the purpose of selecting twenty-five candidates and twenty-five alternates to attend the first officers' training camp at Ft. Sheridan. Twenty-seven men of the regiment were sent to this camp, all 1917 TROUBLE IN JOLIET but one of whom passed with credit and received commissions in the National Army. The one exception was taken sick. May 31st. All troops, except recruiting detail, regimental head- quarters office force, medical detail and a few guards, were sent to the Cicero camp. June i)th. Report by telephone was received from Major C'linnin of a serious outbreak among the prisoners in the Joliet penitentiary, who had set fire to the buildings, overpowered the guards and were battering down the doors in an effort to escape. The warden asked for immediate help. There being no time to lose, ]\Iajor Clinnin ordered Company G, which was nearest to the prison, to march to the entrance, reversed a trolley car in front of his camp quarters, which were in the park imme- diately outside of the city, loaded the car with another company and started them on the way toward the prison. At the time he called up the i-egimental commander, stated the situation and asked for orders. The telephone was held open long enough to call General Barry, who promptly gave orders for the troops to act. In nine minutes from the time of first call armed soldiers marched into the inclosure and prevented the escape of the prisoners. Eft'orts were made by the leaders to incite the inmates of the prison, armed with knives, bars of iron and other weapons, to rush the troops who were lined up a few yards away, but their courage failed them and a catastrophe was averted. When the situation was under control the state authorities were notified to assume charge, as United States troops could not assume jurisdiction in affairs within the province of the state. The following morning a Nitioiial (iuard ('omi)any from Kankakee relieved Majoi' (Miniiiirs coiiiniand. RE<;iMENTAL XOX (OMMISSIOXEI) STAFF AND CLKHICAI. FOUCK 6 TROUBLE IX JULIET 1917 Major Cliniiiii, in his narrative of the event, writes as foHows : "On the mornino' of June 5, 1917, Mr. Bowen, warden of the penitentiary, rushed into the eamp at Dellwood and informed me that "the prisoners had revolted, set fire to the prison, and if troops were not sent at once the guards would be overpowered, all would escape and overrun the surrounding country/ I informed him that we were Federal troops, and before assistance could be rendered permission must be had from the Commanding General, Central Department, and from the Governor of the State of Illinois. At the same time I ordered the companies brought in from the drill field and ammunition issued. I put in a telephone call for Colonel Sanborn at headquarters of the First In- fantry, and the Governor <;t »Springfield, 111. In nine minutes I had secured the order from General Barry, permission from Governor Low- den, and Company G, under command of First Lieutenant Charles F. Tapper, was on its way to the i)rison. I also sent Cai)tain Hamlet C. Ridgway to confei' with the warden, and to inform nie by telephone as to the conditions. Captain Ridgway called me on the telephone and sug- gested that I "iome at once and bring Company E, who were delayed in coming in from drill field; this company, having received ammunition, started at once for Joliet. I caught an auto going toward the prison, and arrived at the east gate just as Company G was going through the iron doors. Lieutenant Troxell, my adjutant, with ^Ir. George Brown, commissioner of the City of Joliet, drove u]) in an automobile and were sent by me to catch a northbound Chicago car, with orders to reverse the trolley and bring Company E at once. This was done and shortly thereafter the company arrived, detrained, formed up, loaded their rifles, fixed bayonets, and were ready. One detachment of fourteen men, under Sergeant Bottomley, were sent into the quarry, across from the prison, where about two hundred and fifty prisoners were in the quarry pit. These prisoners were among the most hai-dened criminals m the institu- tion, and had dynamite and powder used in blasting. The company, less this detail, followed Company G into the enclosure. "The scene disclosed was beyond description; the prisoners had set nine of the buildings on fire, they were running about like maniacs, cutting the fire hose, driving out the fire company, beating the guards with clubs and bars of iron. When the troops entered they had just run a car, loaded with coal, from the siding near the power house onto the main track, and were pushing it toward the east gate, using it as a bat- tering ram to break down the gates. Two squads from Company (I drove the prisoners away from the car. All of their attention was now centered on the troops, hammers, hatchets, rocks, bars of iron and every conceivable kind of weapon was hurled at the soldiers, many of whom were cut, bruised and injured. 917 POPULARITY OF THK TROOPS IP WM. SflfflSg^Aj*,- , ■-«ip Sisl^p^'-^ . :' i i -^ 1 F JT^ MAJ. FKKl) E. IIAIXK LIEUT. ALI'.ERT G. JEPPERSOX AXI EDISON "We deployed aloii<>' the north wall and witli the liayonet drove all hefoi'e lis. Guards were left at the gates and small detachments detailed to elear ont the hnildings. The fire department of the City of Joliet and the Illinois Steel Company, aided by a few 'trnsty prisoners," fol- lowing np the skirmish line and proceeded to i)ut out the fires. All of the prisoners were forced against the wall in the southeast corner of the inclosure, where we tried to form them into column in order to march them out under guard, if it became apparent that the prison would be totally destroyed, or to force them into the cell house when the danger was past. They repeatedly made attempts to rush the guards, but were held in cheek. One prisoner attempted to kill me, but was prevented by Captain Ridgway. After a very strenuous three hours the fires were mastered, the prisoners marched into the cell house, locked up, and when checked, it was found that not one had escaped or been killed by a soldier. Some were cut with the bayonet, but the injuries were slight. No soldier had been killed, and only a few wounded. We remained at the prison three days, and were relieved by two companies from the Third Infantry, Illinois National Guard." After this affair at the prison the i)()piilarity of our troops reached its hightest level. People came from all around the country to see the heroes of the prison riots. Recruits poured in and the three companies wei:e filled to the maximum of 150 men. The people of Joliet, through the Rotary Club, gave a field day and from the proceeds gave the men 8 LETTER OE WARDEN BOWEX 1917 200 pairs of shoes and 480 pairs of khaki trousers. The local chapter of the Red Cross presented a regimental hospital equipment, and some of the leading citizens provided towels, socks and handkerchiefs for all the men. General Barry issued a letter of commendation to the officers and men, congratulating them upon the splendid manner in which they performed a serious task. The following letters and copies of telegrams speak for themselves: ILLINOIS STATE PENITENTIARY, JOLIET. June 6, 1917. Commanding General, Central Department. C S. A., Chicago, 111. Sir: Rioting and destruction of property by convicts in the Joliet State Prison being imminent on the morning of June 5, 1917, I called up Major J. V. Clinnin, stationed at Dellwood, for military assistance. Company G, Captain Hamlet Ridgway, left Dellwood at 9 :87. arriv- ing at the prison gates about ten o'clock. A detail of six men was despatched to protect the crusher in the State quarry, opposite the prison compound. The rest of the company entered the inclosure to the hoots and cat- calls of the prisoners employed in the rattan shops, where the mutiny had started. Fires were then burning in two places in these shops. Captain Ridgway stationed his men to guard the hose and prison fire department. Rioters forced entrance into the prison oil house. With gasoline and other volatiles they rushed through the various shops, placing fire. It was at once seen that more soldiers were needed. Major Clinnin arrived at 10:30, with Company E, commanded by Lieutenant McAdams. The compound was now a mass of rushing, rioting convicts, over which hung a pall of dense smoke from the burning buildings, making it difficult to see any distance, or to distinguish faces and figures. A storehouse for lumber, glass, iron and pipe, at the northwest corner of the inclosure, a two-story building containing the chapel, post- office and store, solitary and novelty room, located in the center of the grounds, and the rattan shops, in the northeast section, were all in flames. Convicts John Flaherty and Michael O'Connell were first to jump from the second floor of the chapel building, receiving serious injuries. Flaherty died later in the afternoon. Major Clinnin drew up his men along the north wall, and marched towards the south, chasing the prison- ers to the cell-houses, where they were backed against the walls, and held at the point of the bayonet. 917 LETTh:i{ OF WARDEN BO WEN 1) The tiT'c department, being now afitorded protection, were (piiekly able to control the tlames. Hy 2 o'clock in the afternoon all the fires were ont. all prisoners had been fed and locked in their cells. One of Major Clinnin's companies did gnard duty during the night; the other company returned at nightfall to Dellwood. Today has been quiet, 150 prisoners being at work in the yards and gardens. All others have remained in their cells. Major Clinnin has proven himself worthy of any mission demanding intelligence, courage, poise, and quick-witted judgment. The prompt restoration of order, without the firing of a single shot, the saving of the institution from the flames, and the prevention of a single escape, speak praise of him and his officers, and more than woi'ds cannot describe. They testify to his and their worth as soldiers and men. The provocation to shoot was severe, but they retained full posses- sion of themselves. The riots were stopped without the order that would have brought death to many, among them not a few innocent of participa- tion in the disorder. 1 am undei- personal obligation to you for your prompt action and liearty support in this crisis, and desire to assure you of my most sincere appreciation. Very respectfully, A. L. BOWEN, Warden. Headquarters C'enti-al Depai'tnient, Official Copy, Adjutant's Office. HOT CIIOCOL.JiTE .\XI) DOUOIIXUT! 10 COMMENDATORY LETTERS 1917 WAR DEPARTMENT. HEADQUARTERS CENTRAL DEPARTMENT, CHICAGO. June 7, 1!)17. From: De])a]'tnieiit Adjutant. To: Majoi' Jolui \'. Clinnin, Fii'st Illinois Infanti-y. Lot-kport, 111. ►Subject : Comniendation. 1. The Department Commander directs that you assemble the otSeers and enlisted men of your command who took ])art in quelling the disturbance at the Joliet penitentiary, June "), I'llT, and read to them this letter and the three inelosures thereto. 2. He has pleasure and satisfaction in tlius making' official record of the prompt, intelligent and efiFective service you all rendered on that occasion, and he especially congratulates you on the excellent judgment and control exercised by you and your men, whereby notwithstanding the provocation, you remained cool and quelled the riot without resorting to firing. H. 0. S. HEISTAND, Adjutant General. :] inch THB-Mz. STATE OF ILLINOIS. OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR. SPRINGFIELD. Jiuie 7, 1917. ^ly dear ^lajor Clinnin : I want to thank you, and through you, your command, for the prompt and effective service you rendered to the State at Joliet on Tues- day. The self-restraint and soldierly conduct of your officers and men have been highly commended by all. Very sincerely yours, FRANK 0. LOWDEX. Major John V. Clinnin, First Illinois Infanti-y, Lockport, 111. [COPY OF TELEGRAM.] Springfield, 111., June 7, 1917. Major General T. H. Barry, Chicago, 111. I thank you with all my heart, dear General, for the very great and prompt assistance you have rendered us at Joliet. I trust opportunity will present itself when I may show my appreciation. FRANK 0. LOWDEX. Headquarters Central Department, Otficial Copy, Adjutant "s Oftice. 1917 DETAILS TO FT. SHERIDAN 11 K.NKillTS OF COHMIU S A( Tl VI TIKS Kecreation Room ami Some of the Workers [WESTERN UNION.] Chicago, 111., June 7, 1917. Hon. Frank 0. Lowclen, Springfield, 111. Tiianks for your telegram of June 7th. AVe did our simple duty, nothing more, with your own troops, part of the First Illinois Infantry in the Federal service, who acted promptly, intelligently and effectively. They are entitled to all the credit. Major John V. Clinnin, First Illinois Infantry, has been furnished copies of your telegram and this reply with instructions to read them to his command. BARRY. Headquarters Central Department, Official Copy, Adjutant's Office. • Our regimental band, the pride of the Cicero camp, was sent to Fort Sheridan on the 2nd, to furnish music for the entertainment, marches and parades of the candidates at the officers' training school. The ma- chine gun company of the regiment with guns, pack animals and full equipment, was also sent to Fort Sheridan the 16th. to act as instructors in that line of work. The band returned to the regiment August 16th; machine gun company August 13th, both organizations having made a fine impression and a good record. Following the call of the First Regiment, Illinois Infantry, into the Federal service came the call for all other organizations of the National Guard in the state, and details of officers were made from the officers of the regiment for the inirpose of mustering in the other Chicago troops 12 CAMP ACTlVlTJKiS 1917 witli Lieutenant Colonel Eddy as chief mustering- otificer. This duty was completed during the month of July. Shortly after the first of the month classes were formed under tlie supervision of competent teachers for study of the French language. A large tent on the camp grounds erected for entertainment purposes was utilized three evenings each week, resulting in considerable progress being made by both officers and men in learning the most commonly used expressions and the names of articles in everyday use. July 6th. In the early summer the construction of the big canton- ment at Camp Grant, near Roekford, 111., was started. More or less trouble was experienced with the large number of workmen who were being quartered together at that point, due to drunkenness, lawlessness. and the presence of I. W. W. agents in the camj). No water mains had been laid, or other precautions taken against fires which might have caused enormous losses if the huge accumulation of lumber and materials stored there had become ignited. The War Department, therefore, decided that military protection should be fur- nished, and on July 6th the first detail of the First Infantry was sent there, consisting of Company M, three officers and 122 men, wdio went into camp on the l)ank of the river, not far from where the first construc- tion of barracks was started. This detail was followed by Company K July 20th. July 23rd. Regiment was recruited to full war sti-ength. Durnig the months of June and July an active campaign was conducted in Chi- cago for recruits. All sorts of methods were used to attract the class of men desired, including announcements from the stage in various theaters, posters on the elevated railroad stations and in the cars. Automobiles with recruiting parties toured the city ; speakers were sent to the resident sections, principally on the south side. By consent of the heads of large mercantile concerns thousands of circulars were distributed to employees, but results were not entirely satisfactory. Most of the young men pre- ferred to take the chances of the draft. However, the work bore fruit and after July 23rd, when tlie regiment was filled, large innnb<^i"s nuule appli- cation for admittance. July 29th. Troops at Joliet and Lock})()rt were ordered to report to the regiment. They reported back August 3rd, making the march in two days. Other details on the various railroad bridges were also brought in and the state authorities were notified that such protection of prop- erty as seemed necessary should be provided by them. The railroads, as a rule, put back their own w^atchmen. The drainage district replaced their police force with no disturbances of the peace, or effort on the part of enemy sympathizers to create trouble, due, probably, to the fact that the U. S. Secret Service had covered the country quite thoroughly by that 1917 ASSEMBLY OF DETACHMENTS 13 time, and many outspoken persoiis were locked np or kept under constant surveillance. August .'jfh. The regiment was drafted into the U. S. service, under the provisions of the act of Congress, known as the National Defense Act, approved June 3, 1916, and became an integral part of the great army which later was designated by one name, the United States Army, com- posed of regulars, National Guard and National Army ; destined to serve thereafter as a united army and to become one of the deciding factors in the great w^orld war. August 8th. The tirst battalion. Companies A, B, C and D, Major Abel Davis commanding, was sent to Camp Grant to reinforce Companies I, K, L and M, of the Third Battalion, already there, who were unable to cover the ground, due to the increase of construction work. Major Davis organized the plan of guard duty for the cantonment in a manner for which he deserves great credit. His work in that connection was specially mentioned by General Barry, and his dispositions and plans covering additional territory from time to time, as necessity demanded, M'ere uniformly approved. August 28th. The regimental commander and remaining units of the regiment broke camp at Cicero and proceeded to C^amp Grant, arriv- ing at -i :30 p. m., establishing headquarters in one of the newly erected buildings on the grounds, and the following day tlie colonel of the regi- ment assumed connuand and supervision over the guard system which was maintained with various modifications until morning of October 1st. Hurncrs. Mcmntcil IM'AX'IKV MIO (l.'i-Iics. Motorcy. )!' CiDiiiinini 14 - GUARDING CAMP GRANT 1917 When tlie first ^uard detachment was sent to Cauip Grant the only buildings that were then constructed were various warehouses along the railroad line leading into the grounds. The plan of construction had, however, been fully made and approved by the War Department, and under the able management of the constructing quartermaster, Major D. H. Sawyer, work thereafter proceeded with great dispatch. The num- ber of workmen on the grounds by this time had increased to approxi- mately 6,000, quartered in camps at various nearby points; changing every day, some quitting work, others coming in, a motley crew of Ameri- cans, foreigners and negroes of every class and description. Drinking, fighting, gambling and robbing were frequent, and could not be fully controlled by local authorities. Orders were that no liquors should be brought on to the reservation. After military guards were established all men entering the camps were searched, and it was not un- common to collect a couple of barrels full of bottles of whiskey and other intoxicating liquors in a single night. The chief danger which was always present was from fires, a sewer- age and water system not having been provided until after the building construction was completed. The only water available was a small sup- ply placed at different points in tanks and wagons. The work of construction was marvelously rapid, the buildings on one entire street laid out in the morning standing completed before night ; foundation timbers, walls and roof. This necessitated a daily change in the guard dispositions, fire stations, etc. The guard was ordinarily com- posed of one field officer of the day, three officers of the day, various officers of the guard and sentinels, in all aggregating 600 men. Each officer of the day had an office in the section under his control ; all were under supervision of the field officer of the day. The necessity of this arrangement was due to the fact that a tour around the sentry posts involved a trip of approximately 25 miles. As the camp neared completion Major General Barry took personal vommand at Camp Grant. The general brought with him nearly all his old staff, an able and efficient lot of officers with whom it was a pleasure to work. Sept. 11. Affairs were passing in the ordinary way without excit- ing incident, canteens were established throughout the camp by the regi- ment, which did a thriving business in soft drinks and the usual articles kept for sale in such places. September 11th, a telegram was received from the Commanding General 33rd Division at Camp Logan, Texas, ordering the regiment to proceed to that point and join the Division to which it had been assigned; thereupon ensued a lively contest involving General Barry, General Bell and the War Department, General Barry setting forth the conditions at Camp Grant, not yet occupied by the 1917 ROOSEVELT KECEPTION 15 131ST IXFAXTKV i.\ AXI» Sri'I'LY IUMI I.AKOCIIKTTK. LUXEMBOUKC National Army, and stating that if troops were withdrawn he wonkl not assume responsibility for the safety of the cantonment. General Bell on the other hand claimed that the Illinois troops were assigned to his division and pointed out the necessity of their immediate entry on the course of training necessary to fit them for overseas service. Departure of the regiment was postponed to September 24th, later to on or before October 5th. After September 1st officers were reporting daily to Camp Grant preliminary to taking on the training work at the camp, followed by train loads of drafted men, who were quickly taken in hand, assigned to companies uniformed and their training commenced. The work was from daylight until dark, and within a week many of the companies were able to present a very creditable formation on the street, although not yet armed with rifles. A notable event in the history of the camp was the visit of former President Theodore Roosevelt on September 26th, to deliver an address to the men of the National Army who were mobilized there, to the number of about 30,000. His coming was known in advance, and General Barry was most anxious that the affair should be a success; also that no un- pleasant incident should occur to mar the proceedings. The First Illinois Infantry was assigned to the duty of escort to conduct the distinguished visitor from the railroad depot to the general "s quarters and upon his departure, back to the depot. Colonel Roosevelt 's time being limited, arrangements were perfected for himself and party to 16 NATIONAL ARMY FARKWKLL 1917 proceed rapidly over the principal streets of the camp,-theirtn the place where he was to address the troops and from there to the special train on which he arrived. General Barry wished that no traffic, individuals, teams, or auto- mobiles appear on the roads while the observation tour was in progress, 1o eii:ainate all possibility of accident. These arrangements were placed in charge of Major Abel Davis, First Illinois Infantry, and were perfectly carried onl. Colonel Roosevelt made a few remarks to the regiment at the depot immediately before the train left referring to his associations with the organization, in the Cuban Campaign, congratulating the troops on their soldierly appearance, complimenting them on their work done that day and wishing them success and glory in the days to follow. Sept. 30th. The day of the regiment's departure for the south hav- ing been set for October 1st, General Barry ordered the National Army assembled on the large field near his headquarters on three sides of a square, with the First Illinois Infantry, in front. From the same platform from which Colonel Roosevelt had delivered his address the 26th, General Barry read the copy of a letter which he had written to the C-ommanding General, of the 33rd Division, supplementing it with a few words of good wishes, and kindly interest, after which the bands played, the national army regiments cheered and we marched away to quarters, to pack up and pay short calls on our many friends before leaving the next day. A copy of the letter above referred to was presented to the regimental connnander. It reads as follows: Headquarters 86th Division, Camp Grant. Rockford, Illinois, Sept. 28th, 1917. From : Connuanding General, 86th Division, Camp Grant, Illinois. To: Commanding General, 33rd Division, Camp Logan, Texas. Subject : First Illinois Infantry. 1. On October 1st, 1917, the First Illinois Infantry will be re- lieved from duty at the camp and will proceed en route to join the 33rd Division at Camp Logan, Houston, Texas. 2. As Commanding General Central Department the regiment was under my immediate command at various places throughout Illinois guarding points and plants, etc., of strategic military importance and rendered efficient service, especially the command of Major Clinnin, which at Joliet, Illinois, put down what was practically a riot among the pris- oners in the Joliet Penitentiary and saved the penitentiary from destruc- tion and prevented the escape of the prisoners. Major Davis rendered 1917 OFF FOR CAMP LOGAN 17 excellent service with his battalion in guarding the cantonment at Camp Grant, Rockford, Illinois, from the beginning of the work until he and his command were finally joined by the remainder of the regiment, all of which has been under command of Colonel Sanborn since August 26th, 1917. Colonel Sanborn is an officer of considerable experience and marked ability ready and prompt at all times to meet any demands upon him or his regiment. 3. I part with Colonel Sanborn and his regiment with regret, and 1 congratulate you on having the regiment as part of your Division. 4. I wish Colonel Sanborn and his regiment every success and good luck. T. 11. BARRY, Major General, U. S. Army, Comdg. 86th Division, and Camp Grant. Thus we passed with genuine regret from the command of a general whose treatment of all was marked by the utmost consideration and whose only words when we came under his command were, "If you ever get into sci'ious trouble come to me and I will get you out." Oct. 1st. For several days before our departure various railroad officials and agents were hard at work rounding up sufficient sleeping cars to transport an entire regiment from Illinois to Texas, in which effort they finally succeeded. In the meantime, on September 29th, the supply com- pany, headquarters company, machine gun company, and all the regi- mental transportation were sent forward to Camp Logan, to prepare for the arrival of the regiment. Trains bearing the regimental connnander and staff and three bat- talions left Camp Grant at 1 :25 p. m., October 1st, and at half hour intervals thereafter arrived at Camp Logan, Houston, Texas, the morn- ing of October 4th. CHAPTEK II TRAINING AT CAMP LOGAN From the time the regiment was called into the service until the day it embarked for Europe there was a lack of equipment, of one kind or another. AVherever we were stationed the statement was made, "short- ages M^ill be shipi)ed to you at next station and will no doubt be supplied there without delay." At Camp Grant men were comfortably quartered in buildings. These, however, were rather cold at times during the montli of September. There we got rid of a large amount of unserviceable tentage which had been shipped from the state arsenal at Springtiv'ld, Illinois, but were unable to draw new tents or very much other eipiip- ment, supj^lies at that point being held for the National Arm>'. Sufficient ttMits for the immediate necessities of the conniiand wci'c awaiting us on arrival at Camp Logan. When the regiment marclied through the dust to their allotted s])ace on the south side of the triangle around which are grouped the various organizations' areas, the tents were up, mess halls ready for use and the advance detail had other arrangements made to take care of everyone as well as could be expected. The space occupied by the regiment had been only partially prepared. HIKE TO TiiK r.A r IS 1917 NAME CHANOED TO 131ST INFANTRY 19 Dining' halls and kitchens were bnilt, as were also baths and latrines, but the company streets were not graded, and were full of stumps which had to be dug out. Everyone worked hard during spare time for many days to come putting the grounds into shape. Camp Logan was built on a triangle with the inside left for drill purposes. The area never was sufficient for the requirements of the troops, besides being covered with a growth of pine and oak trees which it became necessary to cut out. The result was crowding during drill hours or the alternative of marching a couple of miles in the hot sun through the dust to the prairie outside the camp. All the other organizations composing the Thirty-third Division had been in Camp Logan for several months before our arrival, and had done considerable pioneer work in the way of making clearings which left no other space for the latecomer. On the fifteenth of October, a change was made in our camp location, the regiment moving several hundred yards west, taking over the ground occupied by the 182nd In- fantry, which gave us a small cleared space for drill. ; At 12 o'clock midnight of October 10th, the official designation of the First Regiment Illinois Infantry was changed to the 131st Infantry, by which name it was thereafter known. The 131st and 132nd Infantries were assigned to the Sixty-sixth Brigade of the Thirty-third Division, in whicii organizations both regiments served until mustered out of the serv- ice. Major General George Bell, Jr., C^)mmanding Thirty-third Division, and his chief of staff. Colonel William K. Navlor, were absent in France C.\rT. GE0U(;E X. M.VLSTKOM AXI> OPEKATIOXS AXD IX'lEI.LICEXrE STAFF 20 TROTBLE IN THE Oil 1917 II. .\i,\(;xi:k and staff when the regiment arrived at Caui]) Logan, liaving been detaikxl as ob- servers. They remained absent until December 6th. In the meantime the division vi^as under command of Brigadier General Henry Davis Todd, Jr., of the artillery. Work for the first two months was confined to drills, practice marches and putting the men across the rifle range. Details were made daily to various schools, at which men were in- structed in gas defense, training in use of the bayonet, hand grenades, cooking schools for mess sergeants and cooks and specialties for members of headquarters units and supply company. A campaign was also started to induce soldiers to subscribe for Lib- erty Loan bonds and insurance. The 131st Infantry easily led all the other regiments in the division in Liberty Loan subscriptions and came very near being the highest, if not the highest, in the United States on a per capita basis. All men were required to take on life insurance or give full reavsons in writing for not doing so. The exceptions were few, con- fined mostly to men who had no relatives in the country or did not knoM' where any of their families were located. Nov. 1st. Unrest in the oil fields, with strikes and fear of violence, resulted in hastily despatching troops to the infected districts. The first battalion. Major Abel Davis commanding, was sent to Humble on Novembei- 2nd, and remained thei-e until i-elieved by regulars November 15th. 1917 PRESENTATION OF COLOKS ■21 NoiK i^th. Governor Frank 0. Lovvdcj, of Illinois, with Mrs. Low- den, the Hon. David Shanahan, tke adjutant general of Illinois, and sev- eral others paid a visit to the troops at Camp Logan. The regiment was at that time on the rifle range about eight miles west of Camp Logan. On this occasion Governor Lowden made a personal presentation to the regiment of a beautiful stand of silk flags, national and regimental, which were carried by the regiment throughout the campaign. The regiment was formed in line. After brief remarks by the governor and the regi- mental commander the (2olor bearers and guard stepped forw^ard with the old First Illinois Infantry colors, exchanging them for the new. Dec. 6th. Major General Bell returned from Frati#^, called the officers together and after describing couditicste- as he saw them on the fighting front told the officers wfeSrt w<>«?d be expected from them and tfee-iKtTT under them. The talk was ^raight to the point and admitted of no misunderstanding. From that day on officers were gauged by the work they performed, their attention to duty and not by their proficiency in leading social functions at the Rice Hotel in Houston. Those who were thereafter sent before efficiency boards and discharged from the service have raised more or less cry of discrimination against the officers of the National Guard, coupled with the claim that their positions were wanted * • iH &' MEDICAL OFFICERS AND CHAPLAINS, 131 ST INF. 22 MODEL COMPANY SELECTED 1917 IIAPLAIN THOS. E. EDGERTON AND MAIL ORDERLIES by the officers of the regular army. General Bell's aets absolutely i-efute these statements. As subsequent appointments show, all positions so vacated, with possibly one or two exceptions, were filled by promotions within the division and from the National Guard personnel. During October and November considerable progress was made in training. Men were hardened by practice marches of about eight miles every few days. Soon after the arrival of General Bell things began to speed up. Every hour in the day was crowded with work, either drills, schools, marches or inspections. The construction of a complete system of trenches about two miles from Camp was completed and occupied by some organ- izations nearly all the time until the heavy rains flooded the area. Officers from the British and French Armies were detailed to teach officers and men the various specialties as applied in European warfare such as bayonet, gas, grenades, etc. A special competition was instituted in each Regimeiill^to form a model company; model in drill, deportment and equipment. T\he winning company in the 131st Infantry was Com- pany E, Captain Hamlet C. Ridgway, commanding. This company in competition wi^h the three model companies of the other infantry regi- ments won (tut and was declared the model of the division. Later these four companies were combined into a model battalion, Captain Ridgway was promoted to the rank of major and placed in command. It was here that the old First Infantry commenced to reap the reward 917 KKGIMEXT ST'FFKRS BV TRANSFERS 23 ( ?) of its previous efficiency and training'. All the Field Officers except the colonel and lieutenant colonel were taken away. Major Abel Davis was made colonel of the 132nd Infantry ; Major Clinnin, colonel of the 130th Infantry; Major Bittel was sent to the 130th Infantry and later l)romoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel. All the medical officers except Major Amerson were promoted to majors and assigned elsewhere. Major Amerson was later promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel and assigned to command of the sanitary trains. Seven captains of the line were promoted majors, nearly every first lieutenant and many second lieutenants were made captains. All second -lieutenants were promoted, the vacancies so caused being filled from the non-commissioned officers. In addition to these wholesale promotions, those sent to Fort Sheridan Training Camp, to the training camp at Fort Sam Houston, transfers and promotions to other regiments and to other arms of the service in all numbered approximately 300. No accurate list can be compiled, due to loss of records after arriving in France, but it is doubtful if any other regiment, certainly none in the west, furnished so many officers to the army as the old First Regiment Illinois Infantry National Guard. It is estimated that fully one thousand officers of the old regiment served in France, either promoted direct from the service or from civil life. Dec. Kith. About this time men began to speculate on the probable date when the regiment would be filled up to full war strength of 106 CAl'T. ROr.T. J. .TOUDAX AND STATISTICAI, 24 NEW YEAK'W RECEPTION TO GENL. BELL 1918 MA.T. FUANCI.S M. ALLEN AND SIAFI MEDAL OP HONOR MEN, S(4T. JAKE ALLEX. CPL. ALEXANDER POPE Officers and 3,699 men (including medical detachment). Orders were received to take up all extra clothing, leaving men with one uniform only, and ship the excess to Camp McArthur, Waco, Texas, for the purpose of fully equipping the division at that camp in anticipation of early orders to proceed overseas. This was not a very pleasant procedure, but orders had to be obeyed. This event and failure to get recruits to fill the regi- ment to war strength led confirmation to the impression in some quarters that possibly our division would remain in the United States as a train- ing unit. There appears to have been some ground for that impression, w^hich happily did not come to pass. Jan. 1st. A New Year's reception was held by General Bell, assisted y Mrs. Bell, and other officers of the division at the Kice Hotel, Houston, followed in the evening by a dance. All officers from the camp and many of the society people of Houston were present at the reception. Training continued without intermission through the months of January, February and March. Schools for officers and non-commissioned officers, including a captain and senior platoon leaders' school, reduced the number of officers on duty with companies to not exceeding two at times. During the latter part of March all troops were again sent to the rifle range and put over the course once more. Some rain fell, leaving con- siderable water standing on the ground in the vicinity of the rifle range. These pools bred mos(|uitoes. and before any one realized the possibility 1918 PRACTICE MARCH TO SAN JACINTO 25 of any kind of infection men were coming' down with a sort of den;^ne fever which temporarily put some companies out of commission. No serious sickness developed from this cause. April ith. General Bell had never seen his entire division collected together in formation and was extremely anxious to have everything, including men, animals and transportation, pass in review. ' Orders were issued for this ceremony to take place on the morning of April 4th, on a large field about one mile northwest of the camp. Some troops had long distances to march to get into position. The 131st Infantry started before daylight to its position on the right of the line, clearing the road for troops to follow by that particular route. The review was a pronounced success and the general expressed himself as satisfied with the appearance and marching of the mien. April 8th. Kealizing that the men were getting stale from continual close order drill and that some change from the monotony and grind was necessary, a request was made to the general to permit the 131st Infantry to make a practice march of ten days simulating war conditions, which request was granted. The plan of the operation was to follow up a raid- ing force as far as Morgan Point, camping at the old San Jacinto battle ground on the ship canal near Lynchburg, then to retreat before a superior force until uniting with our lines south of Houston. The diffi- culty of locating available camp ground where an ample supply of good water could be found made it impossible to equalize the marches, which averaged from 8 to 12 miles per day, with the exception of the march from San Jacinto to Morgan Point and return, which was about 16 miles. The X'CTPATION OF LTTXlOir.OTTRc; AFTKK THE ARMISTK'K Guard at the Gerniau Eiseii und Stall Werke at Steinfort Lux. 26 RETTRX TO ('AMI' LOGAN 1918 IIAI'L.MN I.OKIIK AM) DHIVKK niareli was made luicler tield eonditioiis, men and line offieers living in shelter tents, field train including rations carts, water carts and cookers with each battalion. The object of the march was to teach men road discipline, aeenstom them to carrying the pack, teamsters how to handle their animals, cooks to handle the rations in the field and company officers administration under service conditions. The tour of duty was an unqualified success ; there were no stragglers except two men who fell asleep by the side of the road on a night march starting at 2 :30 a. m. without previous notice or preparation. The intelligence section of the headquarters company made maps as required from actual reconnaissance of the ground. Patrols were in- structed in sending messages and officers in tactical problems. Within a couple of days the column could march into a field and within ten or fif- teen minutes after arrival have a well laid out camp pitched, the range fires lighted and everyone fixed for the night. The regiment camped four days at San Jacinto and operated during that period from there. Reason for this was ample water supply, good bathing and plenty of wood ; also that the men were given an opportunity for looking over the historic battle fields and fishing in the channel, which is a place much fre- quented by people from Houston, who are fond of fishing. The local papers devoted considerable space to account of the progress of the march, condition of the troops, etc., and th<» eaniiis at night were generally 1918 PKEPARE FOR OVERSEAS SKKVK'E favored by a number ot" visitors both from local towns and from Houston. The regiment returned to Camp Logan April 17th, one day before the big draft contingent ari'ived from Camp Grant to fill the ranks to ap- ]iroximately war strength. ■ April 18th. Small numbers of recruits had been received from Camp Dodge and other points prior to April, but commencing the 18tli in the neighborhood of 10,000 men came from Camp Grant, Rockford ; enough to fill the division up to war strength if the right class of men had been sent. Unfortunately the 86th Division had hopes of going to France at that time and when ordered to send men to the 33rd Division promptly availed themselves of the opportunity of making a selection to their own advantage. We afterwards learned that not only were the guard houses cleaned but the hospitals as M^ell, and if any illiterates were left in that camp it must have been a mistake. The 131st Infantry drew about 1,300 of these men. As fast as they reported they were sent to the surgeons and the physicially unfit culled out. On an average of 25 per day were forwarded to the base hospital and from there discharged until about 400 were disposed of. Some others, alien enemies, were gotten rid of in other ways. What were left we were obliged to accept, good or TTTIXC rr r.KKK. KATKLX liKTAIL )X (tERM.\n border at MERTBRT LUX. 28 ARRIVAL AT CAMP T'PTOX 918 A (JKKMAX SENTRY bad. Nearly all turned out to be good men. A second contingent from Camp Grant turned out better than the first, but there never were quite enough men available to fully fill the ranks and the division landed in Prance short of the full complement of officers and men. April 25th. Orders were received for the division to prepare for overseas service and to be ready to leave for the coast whenever vessel room became available. From that time on everybody was busy cleaning up, packing up and shipping home unnecessary articles. It was a matter of much regret that we were obliged to turn in all of our live stock, including officers' mounts and a fine lot of trained machine gun mules. Many were the sad partings between drivers and their faithful teams who had trained together for many months. No information whatever was given out as to when or by what route troops would leave camp. The only intimation men in the camp had that troop movements were on was when they saw some part of the camp deserted which the day before was filled with soldiers. May 3rd. A careful inspection was made of clothing and equip- ment, lists of shortages were telegraphed to Washington; articles to be sent to assembly point near port of embarkation. The last train on board of which was the headquarters of the 131st Infantry left Camp Logan, Texas, for Camp Upton, N. Y., May 9th, 10 :25 a. m. This train arrived in Chicago late at night May 11th and was due to leave over the New York Central at about 3:00 a. m. The regimental commander and one officer (Major Amerson) caught a fast train at St. Louis arrived in Chicago at 11 :30 p. m., thereby being able to see a few friends and rela- tives for about three hours. No other people in Chicago were aware of 1918 EMBAKKATION FOR FRANCE 29 the fact that men of their own regiments were passing through the city. There was, however, some suspicion that Chicago men were on the way to the coast, as we found women, generally mothers, in the switch build- ings waiting and hoping. One woman had been sitting in one of these dingy rooms for 48 hours without food or sleep, looking for her boy on every train load of soldiers passing through. Her son had passed through a few Jiours before slie commenced her lonely vigil and she did not see him. By early morning the 15th all of the regiment was assembled at Camp Upton, L. I., where it remained until the morning of the 20th, on which day the entire organization after traveling to Brooklyn by train was ferried around to Hoboken, to the pier alongside of which was the S. S. Leviathan, formerly the German S. S. Vaterland, one of the largest ships afloat, on board of which men were placed and assigned to quarters. At the time the 131st arrived the division commander and other troops with the exception of the artillery had already left or were on board boats in New York harbor. The chief of staff turned over the affairs of the division, which were not yet closed, to Colonel Sanborn, 131st Infantry, who arranged for a casual detachment in charge of a couple of officers to remain and pick up various men of the division who, absent with and without leave, were to be forwarded from time to time. In the meantime General Henry Davis Todd, Jr., with the artillery, had arrived in Camp Merritt. He brought with him about 125 casuals, who were later sent to Camp Upton and forwarded to France. Colonel Sanborn and Governor Lowden of Illinois, the latter arriving in New York the 21st, went to Camp Merritt the afternoon of that day to pay a visit to Colonel Milton J. Foreman COMPANY M leaving; A FRENCH TOWN DMPANY EMBUSSING FOR THE FRONT 30 ATTACK OX TRANSPORT 1918 and our artillery friends. Our artillery did not join the division again until after the war was over, having been assigned to various positions with other divisions in the line where they saw hard fighting and did fine work. The S. S. Leviathan steamed out of New York harbor with ports closed and everybody below decks at al)ont o :45 p. ni. Wednesday, May 22nd. The voyage across was very enjoyable to everybody. Owing to the immense size of the ship there was no perceptible movement and no one was sea sick. The ship carried on this trip about 13,000 soldiers and crew, later carried up to nearly 20,000. Major Cxeneral A. Cronkhite was in command of troops aboard. He later became Corps C'omnnuider of the Sixth Corps, Second Amer- ican Army, to which our Division was assigned from Dec. 18, 1918, to March 31,' 1919. About 100 women nurses from Chicago were on board assigned to some hospital unit already in France. With the army and the navy both to pick from these girls had no difficulty in passing away the time very pleasantly. One of the two bands on board played music all of every afternoon and until about 10 :0() p. m. The younger officers and the nurses kept the floor occupied. We were joined by our convoy of destroyers in the early morning of the 29th. They could always be seen scouting, before, behind and on both sides of the big ship at a distance of about one mile. Nothing happened until the morning of the 30th, off the coast of France, when suddenly the guns on the Leviathan opened fire, breaking some of the windows and sending everybody to their boat stations. It was said that four sul)inarines had attempted to maneuver so as to strike the Leviathan, and one torpedo was actually launched from the rear but did not reach the ship. It was later reported that two of the submarines were destroved and a third surrendered badly damaged. CAMP LOGAN, TEXAS CA:\I1' L(i When ('loaned tip •• On CHAPTER III ON FRENCH SOIL Our transport came to anchor in the harbor of Brest, France, about noon, May 30th, 1918, and all units of the regiment went ashore that day except Company E, which was left to clean up ship and furnish details for loading freight and baggage. As troops were transferred to the shore on lighters they were formed in column, marched to the Pontanezen Barracks about three and one-half miles from Brest, and assigned to quarters. Facilities for unloading large vessels of the Leviathan type at Brest were bad. The ship could not come up alongside the wimrves on account of shallow water, consequently men and freight were lightered ashore. The men could be formed and marched away but the baggage, thrown as it was in great heaps without facilities for sorting, resulted ill serious loss. Barracks bags of the men and officers' personal baggage were as a rule kept separate from regimental baggage and freight and a negligible quantity lost. No effort whatever was made to give a regiment its own transporta- tion, wagons, ration carts, etc., or other military equipment except what was carried on the man. Information was given out that all militarv «^ \^ 'ONTANEZEX r.AKK.\("KS. KKEI r.ILLETEI) T, FUAXCE. WHERE THE 131ST INFANTRY WERE ri'ON ARRIVINc; IN FRANCE 31 32 LOSS OF RECORDS AT BREST 1918 [)IX(; LIXES OF OOMMIXU-ATION AT WASSEKP.ILLK;. HX. oi'.erbillk;, oekmaxy, across river property would be collected, sorted, forwarded and issued to whatever organization needed it first. Other boxes containing records and personal property were to be forwarded later. The result was acres upon acres of material piled up everywhere and although several officers were sent to Brest in an attempt to locate property, very little was found. Generally it was discovered the boxes had been opened, property of value for military use taken out and what was left in many cases scattered or stolen. The result was discouraging to troops who had painted and lettered their wagons carefully, indicated boxes in which company property, including typewriters, stencils, mimeographs, etc., was packed. The 131st Infantry lost priceless records, and a large amount of individual private property. The barracks to which the regiment was sent were designated as a rest point in which troops were held a few days before forwarding to training areas. The buildings were erected by Napoleon the First, and have always been used as barracks. Their construction is not modern, there was a lack of sufficient water for bathing purposes, rooms were overcrowded and every one was glad to get away from there when orders came to move. June 2nd. The regiment entrained at Brest and detrained the morning of June 4th, at Oisemont. This was the first time our troops had experienced the novelty of riding in foreign coaches, where they were shut up in small compartments holding an average of eight men, with no opportunity to circulate through the train or get off the cars 918 MOVE TO BILLETING AEEA 33 except at stations designated, for coffee, exercise, etc. The journey carried us through some of the most attractive parts of France and men beheld for the first time tlie small, intensively cultivated fields common to the country, already green with growing crops. The route lay through Rouen, beyond which German aeroplanes were occasionally dropping bombs by night, in consequence of which all lights were forbidden. Beyond Rouen the route lay through a hospital area, into which were creeping long lines of cars on the side of which was shown the Red Cross. This brought vividly to the attention of every one the fact that beyond, not very far away, soldiers w^ere being wounded and maimed in battle. After detraining at Oisemont in the early morning, battalions were directed to the rest camp a short distance out of town, where they were given a hot breakfast, plenty of clean water and a few hours' rest before starting the march to their various billeting towns. Following assignments were made : Regimental headquarters, supply and headquarters company, Caumont, First battalion, Citern, Second battalion, Hoquincourt, Third battalion, Frucourt. On account of in- convenient surroundings and distance from troops the regimental head- quarters and other units at Caumont moved to Frucourt the 5th, Here we came under training supervision of the Nineteenth British Corps, Fourth British Army (Tactical), and were joined by a cadre of British officers and non-commissioned officers. After consultation with the British lieutenant-colonel in charge of the cadre, plans were formulated cover- ing a progressive course of instruction, drill grounds arranged for. EVACUATION IIOSI'ITAL AT GLORIEUX 34 CONDITIONS IN FEANCE 1918 r.KAY. GERMAN I'KISOXER DRIVING BRITISH G. S. WAGON rifle ranges built and we were beginning to feel that some practical work was to commence when orders were received to make another move. It was here that our officers and men first became familiar with the billeting system prevalent in Europe, under which all people are required to turn over to troops such rooms, barns and shelter as is not actually required for tlie use of the family. A careful account is kept by the billeting officer of space used, certificates issued, and on the basis of these vouchers settlement is made by the government at a fixed rate. Our men soon made themselves at home with the people ; the only difficulty experienced M^as where men moved their billets or spread out into more space witliout consulting the billeting officer, result of which was claims requiring considerable trouble to adjust. Here we noticed for the first time that in these little French farm- ing villages and towns no one was left except old men, women and little children, many of them wearing emblems of mourning for husbands and sons killed in the defense of their country. All except the very old or very young worked in the fields from early morning until late at night, day after day, except Sundays, preparing their frugal meals after dark, never complaining, with a steadfastness of faith that was both touching and noble. Their work was never slighted, the fields were as beautifully culti- vated and the crops as faithfully gathered as before. Truly the hard- ships were great, for the government had taken away the greater por- tion of their horses and wagons, but what they had lost in utilities they made up by incessant toil. It was difficult for the prodigal American to understand why the people saved every little twig, every bit of straw and every other little thing they had been in the habit of throwing 1918 CHANGE OF STATION 35 away. They were learning their first lesson in thrift and eeonomy so characteristic of the French people. Later they also learned that the French peasant never spends the fraction of a cent except for the necessities of life. June 10th. The regiment started to change station, moving to towns near the coast in the vicinity of the city of Eu. This change entailed two days of hard marching over rather hilly roads with full equipment. Quite a number of men reported at the end of the journey with bad feet. Night of June 10th, various units were stationed as follows : Regimental headquarters, LeMesnil Reaume, First battalion, Mille Bosc, Second battalion, Monchy, Third battalion, Melleville, machine gun company, Steptmeules. June 13th, regimental headquarters moved to Baromesnil. Here the regiment came under a new cadre of British Officers and non-com- missioned officers and the work progressed on the usual lines until June 21st, when the entire organization assembled by marching at Gamaches and embussed for Pierregot, arriving that night. June 21st. We came under the training of Third British Corps, Fourth Army, B. E. F. On our way to our new station we passed around the outskirts of the bombarded and deserted city of Amiens, thence on towards the front lines and realized soon after arrival at the new station that we were in the war zone. In fact the enemy's forward lines were only 12 miles distant. Everyone was required to carry gas masks and troops located in tents due ditches for protection against night bombing which regularly occurred. A few men were wounded here and one or two killed. DUGOUT IXTELLKiENCE SECTION FRONT OF VERDUN >LI)IERS AT PLAY 36 TRAINING AT PIERREGOT 1918 BATTLE AREA. DIRECTING SIGNS MAIN STREET OF A WELL KNOWN 'FRENCH TOWN P^requently British aviators engaged German planes, affording some exeiting episodes. One very large German plane carrying seven men loaded with bombs was brought down. The bombs attached to the plane exploded when it struck the earth, blowing the occupants of the machine into pieces except two who jumped and were killed by the fall. While in this area the usual precautions were observed : troops were marched by night only except in small groups, animals a.nd wagons were parked under cover of trees, all lights were screeiaeel at night and dumps of various kinds were carefully camouflaged. At Pierregot two British officers were assigned to the regiment, eacli with a corps of instfucfors under the command. Lieutenant-Colonel R. B. Rickman, Seventh Sherwood Foresters, later Lieutenant-Colonel Hector F. Whitehead, formerly with a Scotch battalion which was en- tirely wiped out. After his separation from us he was placed in com- mand of the Fourteenth Royal Berkshire Regiment, sent to Italy, went into Austria, was sent home the latter part of March, 1919, landing finally as a citizen in his old home town of Kingussie, Scotland, near where he can again indulge in his favorite sport of salmon fishing in the lochs of Scotland. Under these officers rapid progress was made in the study of methods of modern warfare. Colonel Whitehead especially was a hard headed fighting old Scotchman and believed in the extermination of the Hun from the start. In addition to classes in defense against gas, bayonet work, bombing, rifle practice, trench mortar and 37 millimetre gun prac- tice, occupation of trenches as far forward as the front lines became a regular routine. The trenches occupied were a part of the system in 918 OCCUPATION OF TRENCHES 37 front of Albert, northeast of Amiens, extending to the rear for several miles, each group of line being part of the system to be held or occupied in the event of the Germans succeeding in a new offensive. At that time the British were not contemplating any offensive, but were rather picking out the points on which to retire if pressed. The city of Amiens was being shelled regularly. Albert was in ruins and occupied by the Germans. The game was a waiting one on both sides, with occasional raids, especially on the part of the line held by the Australians. Nightly the sky was lighted along the entire northern horizon by fire works and numerous big guns shelling the trenches and roads to the front and rear. We first started in where it was comparatively quiet, then occupied sections of the line generally with Australians on both sides until finally we Avere assigned to a few tasks on our own account. Officers were continually sent to the Australian brigades and battalion posts in front for observation ; study of British methods of issuing orders, etc. Some of us were at Heilly, where the long range German guns rained a shower of shells at intervals day and night, sometimes causing a few casualties, always smashing buildings, roads and bridges and occasion- ally but not often hitting a British gun. At times we were fortunate to witness from a safe point a concentration of fire on some luckless village, lasting until it became a havoc of smoking ruin. Sometimes we came under the force of the bombardment ; then it was a case of getting down under the ground where it was safe. In this retreat one could feel the ground shaken by bursting shells like the tremors of an earth- quake. MIXEXWEItPER CVPTURED T.Y l:UST IXF. SEPT. 20TII MAnriNE OrXS captured by 1.31ST IXF. SEPT. 26TH 38 MOVEMENTS PEECEDING JULY FOURTH 1918 OKRMAN CROWX PRIXCES OP.8EKVA (lEKMAX MACllIXE (Jl X XE8T. TION POST, MOXTFAUCOX I>E CIIAl'ME June 23rd. Our first occupation of trenches was defensive in what was called the Vaiden Line, crossing the Hallue river, a dry stream at that time. There was no firing on these trenches, but the require- ments were that orders be issued down to the smallest detail of trench occupation including disposition in depth, liaison between units, placing of machine guns, trench mortars and a concrete plan for counter- attack if driven out at any point. A critique of dispositions and orders was made and faulty situations corrected. The march to positions was covered by regular advance guard formation. Troops remained in tlit- trenches one day then returned to billets. June 26th. Details occupied the Daily Mail Line in the same dis- trict with orders to dig in and wire the position nights of June 26-27. sending patrols and covering parties forward. The same day the regi- ment occupied the southern section of the Vaiden Line, withdrawing night of June 29, 1918. June 29th. Company E, Captain James W. Luke commanding, and Company C, Captain Carroll M. Gale commanding, were ordered to proceed to Allonville by marching for the purpose of training witli the Fourth Australian Brigade. These companies were later advised they were designated for service at the front. Details of officers were made to complete the organization and one platoon of Company K, under command of First Lieutenant Samuel C. Davis, was assigned to Company E, to fill the company to full strength. Some officers were detailed to go along as observers but appear to have been recalled. The following officers were, however, with the Australians in the fight which followed Julv 4th : 1918 MOVEMENTS PRECEDING JULY FOURTH 39 Captain George R. Miller, Major Harry E. Cheney, First Lieutenant Charles F. Tapper. On the same date the first battalion and second battalion received orders to be ready to move at a moment's notice. June 30th. The first battalion moved to Freshenconrt, second bat- talion, to Daours, third remained at Pierregot. It was evident the Australians contemplated using both these battalions in the offensive which followed, but orders were sent not to put the American troops in ; these orders did not reach them in time to withdraw Companies C and E. July 2nd. The first battalion remained in the vicinity of Villers Britteneaux, second battalion at Daours near Corbie, in reserve. Second battalion returned to Allonville, July 3rd, reaching Pierregot, July 6th. July 3rd. The third battalion which had remained in Pierregot took part in a terrain exercise in connection with the 132nd Infantry in the vicinity of the Vaiden trenches. This was a brigade maneuver of which the commanding officer, 131st Infantry, was in command. RUINS OF ETAIN GERMAN DUG-OUT. ST. IIILAIRE 40 CONFEEEING DECOEATIONS AT BEEST 918 CONFEUUIXG THE LEGIOX OP HONOR— BUEST FORMATION FOR PRESEXTATIOX OF DECORATIONS— BREST CHAPTER IV AMIENS SECTOR ATTACK ON HAMEL OPERATIONS TO AUGUST 7, 1918 MAP REFERENCE: BAYQNVILLE, 1/20,000 Juhj 1th. There were great manifestations of joy when orders were received for Companies C and E to report to AUonville for training with the Fourth Australian brigade of the third corps. The Australians were an independent, alert, energetic lot of men and splendid fighters. From the time our soldiers first came in contact with them they mixed well and each took kindly to the other. The remaining Companies, A, B, D, First battalion and F, G, and H, Second battalion; were held in reserve, in positions previously noted. As early as the 27th of June a move was contemplated by the Aus- tralians to attack the enemy and drive him from a ridge east of Hamel. There appears to be no doubt that it was the intention of officers in command to use these two American battalions as a part of the attack- ing force. Some doubt being entertained by the American high com- mand as to just how these troops were to be used, led to a late order by wire not to use them. The order, however, came too late to entirely change dispositions, which resulted in Companies C and E being left in the line. Company E was reported to the Forty-third Australian bat- talion. Company C, to the Forty-second Australian battalion. Other battalion and company headquarters personnel were distributed as stretcher bearers, medical details and intelligence throughout the at- tacking troops. The town of Hamel is located about 2,000 yards south of the river Somme, 5,000 yards east of the town of Corbie and about 5,500 yards a little south of west of the town of Chipilly. Little did the soldiers of the regiment who took part in the attack at Hamel realize that in the short period of a few days over a month they would be storming the heights of Chipilly Eidge, which could be faintly seen on that eventful Fourth of July day through the mist and smoke, after the battle. The object of this battle was to take a triangular piece of territory about 5,000 yards long and about 2,000 yards deep at its northern end, which constituted a dominating piece of the ridge just east of Hamel from which the eneily -had good observation on our front line system. 41 42 RECONNAISSANCE OF HAMEL 1918 ;i;kmax i'KIsoners at woki The taking of this salient would also straighten out our lines erossing the Somme river at Sailly-Laurette, thence extending along the top of the ridge southeast of Hamel. Two days prior to the attack officers from the different organiza- tions went and lived in the line and did patrol work. As a result of this reconnaissance, it was found that the enemy was comparatively close, 250 yards on the right flank, was also very active with machine guns from this quarter. On the left flank he was about 700 yards away and was not very active. There were high crops in No Man's Land which promised good cover. The enemy had a trench system on the west side of Hamel which run through Notamel wood, swinging south- west along the high ground towards the Pear trench. It was anticipated that he had fairly strong garrisons in Hamel stationed in deep dug- outs, which proved to be correct. On the 29th of June the brigade practiced with tanks near Vaux- en-Amiences, which was most instructive, as it gave the men some idea of tank tactics and promised confidence in action. The officers were told all details on the 30th, but the men were not told until the morning of July 2nd. It was decided to move up from billets on X day, halting near the Somme, to relieve the Fifty-first battalion in the line on XY night and to occupy trenches on XY night and Y day. This gave the men one day's resting and enabled them to get a look over the ground of attack by daylight. The battalions moved by platoons at 200 yards interval, bivouacing in the Somme Vallej^ near Bussy, where the men had a swim and a hot meal. 1918 TANKS AND EQUIPMENT 43 Captain Gale states in his report that the troops were directed to remain very quiet July 3rd, in order not to arouse the suspicions of the enemy as to the increase in the strength of the trench garrison. Ad- vantage throughout the day was taken of an observing point in the eastern edge of Vaire-Sous-Corbie, which overlooked the ground on which the action was to take place. All platoon commanders were called in one at a time and studied the ground, land marks, etc., from this observing point. This made up to a large extent for the lack of actual reconnais- sance of the ground. From this observation, from maps and from aero- plane pictures which were distributed down to sergeants, a good idea of the ground was obtained. Fifteen tanks, exclusive of supply tanks, were used on the brigade front. Each tank carried twenty-four filled Lewis gun magazines and one box of small arms ammunition to supplement supplies. Two mortars followed the line to be used in case of resistance at any point. Specialties carried one hundred rounds of small arms ammunition, all others two hundred rounds. Each Lewis gun section carried eighteen magazines between them. Every man carried three sand bags, each man, except signallers and numbers one and two of guns, carried either a pick or a shovel. Men were supplied with 48 hours' rations and two water bottles filled. The assembly point is shown on the accompanying map. Officers on each flank of the battalions were responsible for directions. At 12:30 a. m., July 4th, a platoon started for the jumping otf place, VILLAGE OF IIAMKL 44 TROOPS IX POSITION 1918 :s. i:;is'i' i.\ka.\- which was designated by a wliite tape running through the grain and clover fields. This jumping otf place was three or four hundred yards in front of the front trenches on a diagonal to the objective. The American troops were in their proper places at 1 :30 a. m., and the barrage came down at 3 :10 a. m., as per schedule, forming an almost perfect line which was maintained throughout the advance, enabling the troops to keep very close to the falling shells. There was one exception to the perfect shooting of this barrage by two guns on the right flank, which fell short, and caused quite a number of casualties. One American and one Australian were killed by this barrage while they were lying down. One American officer was also M'ounded. The barrage started 200 yards east of the tape line, and lifted by 100 yard lifts every three minutes for ten lifts when it halted for ten minutes, thereafter it lifted 100 yards every four minutes, and the protective barrage halted 400 yards east of the objective for half an hour. In addi- tion thereto were some field guns and twelve howitzers, 161 guns in all engaged in counter battery work. Twenty machine guns supplemented the barrage on the brigade front from the high ground north of the Somme. The Third Corps on the north and the French Corps on the south also co-operated in the artillery fire. Smoke and gas were fired by our barrage guns at zero, again at the ten-minute halt and two minutes before the lift after the halt. To cover the approach of the tanks from their assembly position, 1,000 yards behind the infantry, our artillery put down harassing fire for eight minutes before zero. 1918 ASSIGNMENT OF UNITS 45 Zero hour was designated at 3 :10 a. m., and the troops moved for- ward at that time. The morning was very dark, and the dust and smoke added to the darkness so that it was impossible to see more than a few yards ahead. This caused a tendency to lose direction, which was soon corrected. The Eleventh Australian brigade was attached to the Fourth Aus- tralian division for this operation, and attacked on the left of the di- visional front. The Forty-second, Forty-third and Forty-fourth bat- talions were used in the assault with the Forty-first battalion in brigade reserve. The Forty-third battalion attacked on the right of the brigade sector and penetrated 1,700 yards, including the village of Hamel and trench systems to the west of the village. The Forty-fourth battalion leap-frogged through the Forty-third battalion at the ten-minutes halt of the barrage and penetrated to the old Amiens line on a road east of Hamel. The Forty-second battalion attacked on the left and penetrated to the old Amiens line. Company C, 131st Infantry, was attached to the Forty-second battalion with dispositions as follows : Captain Carroll M. Gale, company headquarters ; third platoon. First Lieutenant Charles M. Porter commanding, fourth platoon. First Lieutenant Albert G. Jefferson commanding, to Company B ; first platoon. First Lieutenant Fred L. Rinkliff commanding, to Company A ; second platoon. Second Lieutenant John C. Heyl commanding, to Company C, and with them advanced up the hill northeast of Ilamel, taking the dug-outs, trenches and machine GGTIl lUilUADE IIDQIiS., DEUXNOUDS Former lldqrs. of Gen. Luclendorf 46 CAPTAIN GALE'S EEPORT 1918 lIKAIxaAUTKUS OF (JKX. WOLF AT ( ;KKM0XVILIJ<: "un nests on and beyond the hill. Captain W. J. Luke, commanding the company, was attached to the battalion as an observer. Company E, 131st Infantry, was attached to the Forty-third battalion. Captain Gale, of Company' C, who was on the left of the advancing line, states in his report that they advanced in practically one line, met no opposition for about 1,000 yards, but from there on considerable num- bers of the enemy were encountered in various places. All that were met gave themselves up before hand to hand action was possible. From trenches and dug-outs approximately 150 prisoners were taken by Com- pany C, nearly half of whom were wounded. Numbers of machine guns, anti-tank guns, three minenwerfers and one supply tank were captured by them. The Forty-third battalion, to which Company E was attached, got into the fight first. They struck opposition about 300 yards from the first advance, where enemy machine guns opened up, killing an Australian lieutenant and wounding others. Further on another section came under machine gun fire, which gun was rushed by one American and Australian, and the occupants bayonetted. During this period of the fight an Aus- tralian Lewis gunner named Shaw did fine work in silencing three machine gun nests, personally killing a German officer who fired at him and killing another German after his magazine became empty by strik- 1918 CAPTAIN WEIMER'S RKPORT 47 HDQRS. 33RD DIVISION, FROMERVILLE iiig him over the head with his revolver. He captured the enemy post alone. The enemy gun was found with bullet holes through the casing, and there were eight Germans dead in the post. He afterwards captured another enemy machine gun in a quarry east of Hamel, from wliich seventeen prisoners were taken out alive. In all Shaw fired nine magazines throughout the operation and proved the value of a Lewis gun in the hands of a brave and determined man. Other enemy machine gun nests were encountered along the line which were overcome by a squad of Australian Lewis gunners. Consid- erable opposition was met with near the western edge of Hamel, where there were some dugouts. A reserve platoon of Americans, in charge of Lieutenant Symons, worked around to the flank, overcoming the position. The lieutenant was wounded, but his runner, who was the only Australian with the platoon, took charge and cleaned up the situation. The platoon rushed the dugouts and three Germans who attempted to run were shot. This platoon went into Hamel and continued the mopping-up. There was also considerable resistance from the trenches in Notamel, wliere there were also small dugouts. Capt. Herman H. Weimer, Company E, at that time first lieutenant and assistant battalion intelligence officer, who was present and took part in the engagement, states in his report : July 1st was devoted to practicing timed advances. The morning of July 2nd was spent in issuing equipment and in informing the men of what was required of them during the coining battle. The first platoon of E Company, First Lieut. A. N. Clissold com- manding, was attached to A Company, Forty-third battalion, Australian Imperial Forces; second platoon. Second Lieut. R. L. Lee commanding, attached to B Company; third platoon, Second Lieut. E. R. Plummer commanding, attached to C Company, and fourth platoon. First Lieut. 48 WORK OF THE ARTILLEEY 1918 GEIfMAX I'ILL r.(tX, I'.OIS I>K ClIArMK .\("li <»X r.ATTLEFIELl" XKAK CUIl'ILLY S. C. Davis commanding', attached to D Company: the entire organiza- tion being under the direct command of the Lieutenant Cok)nel in charge of the Forty-third battalion, Australians. The organization left Cardonette at noon, July 2, 1918, halted along the Somme, bathed, drew bombs and intrenching tools, then continued the march and relieved the Australian troops in the line facing Hamel on the night of July 2nd. There was only the usual activity during the day of July Srd. One platoon of D Company, 131st Infantry, arrived in the line on the night of July 3rd. Orders were received compelling their withdrawal at 10 p. m. Details of Australians laid tape in front of trenches by 11 p. m., and men climbed out of trenches and formed up on tape at midnight, July 3rd-4th. At 3 :02 a. m. British Artillery opened heavy harassing fire, which played for eight minutes, and at 3 :10 a. m. tremendous barrage was laid down 100 yards in front of the tape and the advance commenced, the barrage lifting 100 yards every minute until assault waves arrived in front of the town of Hamel. Before reaching Hamel the enemy's front and support lines had been taken and mopped up, many prisoners and machine guns being taken. Barrage played on Hamel for ten minutes, while troops re- formed, then barrage lifted, playing on German reserves and artillery positions. When barrage lifted from Hamel our troops (E Company and the Forty-third battalion, Australians) rushed in, mopped up machine e-un 1918 COUNTER ATTACK REPULSED .49 emplacements,' Jiouses, barns, factories, stores, dugouts, etc., while the Forty-fourth battalion, Australians, M^ho had acted as our support wave in the advance to this point, went around each side of Hamel, reformed, advanced and dug in on the military crest of the ridge beyond. Six tanks were used in assisting assault wave and did good work ; two of them were knocked out by enemy artillery. The front covered by the Forty-third battalion, Australians (includ- ing troops of E Company), extended from the Somme Kiver to a point opposite the left of Vaire Woods, about 2,600 yards, or about a total of one man for every two yards of front. Shortly before midnight, July 4th, the enemy made a vigorous coun- ter-attack on a small front, approximately 300 yards, and succeeding in capturing 80 yards of the front line trench with five Australians and two of our men, but before they had an opportunity to withdraw the first platoon of E Company flanked the right of the enemy attacking party, and an Australian platoon flanked its left and succeeding not only in recapturing the five Australians and two Americans, but in addition secured four enemy officers, fifty-three enemy soldiers and three machine guns. Relief was to be made on night of July 5th, but because of heavy enemy strafe, relieving forces were delayed, and relief was not com- pleted until early on the morning of July 6th. After leaving Corbie, E Company parted from the Australians and proceeded to Moliens-au-Bois, where the division and brigade command- ers congratulated the victorious troops, and where the first rifle to be captured by our troops was presented to Major General Bell. GERMAN GUN CAPTURED BY 131ST INF., EAST OF GERCOURT GERMAN TRENCH MORTAR 50 CASUALTIES OF COMPANY E 918 r / '"%!■ Ai^ ' ■'!m i:.M i j^^ ^ ^ie«***^*.ISKI KIJ/>e^- M iPl KK.MAX HATTKHV Al'TlUED I'.Y 181 ST INF. NEAR OERCOURT The total number of prisoners captured in the Hamel operations amounted to over 1,600. Those captured by the Forty-third battalion, Australians, and E Company, 11 officers and 683 men, and of this num- ber four officers, 289 men were taken by members of E Company. The casualties suffered by E Company in this operation were as follows : Killed in action, officers, none ; men, 10. Wounded, officers, 1 ; men, 23. Gassed, officers, none ; men, 34. Tanks did not catch up with the infantry until the 10-minutes halt of the barrage, but they did excellent work in mopping-up the village. The most of the enemy in the village were found in deep dugouts and easily surrendered. Out of one dugout C Company, Intelligence, cap- tured a German battalion headquarters of four officers and twenty-three other ranks unaided. After the tanks got to M^orking there was good co- operation between them and the infantry. One entire line of dugouts was crushed in by a single tank, which appeared to be a great surprise to the enemy and prisoners taken seemed to be much afraid of them. Six of the tanks were assigned to the Forty-second battalion, and Captain Gale in his report states that they did wonderful work. The moral effect of tanks on our troops was as good as it was demoralizing to the 1918 AIRCRAFT ACTIVITY 51 KUIN8 OP CIITiRCri, SIVRY SUR MEUSE OUTSIDE VIEW OF CHURCH, SIVRY SUR MEUSE German Machine Gun Xest Located in Tower eiieiuy. The tanks would immediately make for any suspicious spot, flattening out everything that came in their path. British aircraft had entire control of the air during the day time of the two days' occupation with the exception of about half an hour when the German planes formed in a mass and flew over the positions. Contact planes located front lines easily and accurately. Contact planes were kept hovering over the troops throughout the two days, which was a great source of comfort to all the troops. Combat planes also kept harassing the enemy with bombs and machine gun fire. These planes also did considerable work in bringing water and ammunition to isolated froiit trenches. The work of the artillery left very little for the infantry to do except to occupy the shell swept areas and mop up. Its accuracy was marvelous with the exception previously noted. The final objective was the old British trench system, well suited for defense, and was also well known to the enemy, being shown on all Ids maps. The consequence was heavy shelling of the position after cap- ture. Such heavy shelling was foreseen and in order to avoid a portion of it outposts were posted well forward of the trench lines. Captain Gale states that one platoon showed great coolness in action in marking out and digging the trenches. Our runners and stretcher 52 PRESENTATION OF MEDALS 1918 A SHELL r.riiSTIN( bearers were paired with Australians, and did most excellent work. Signal men got in early communication with battalion headquarters and maintained it. The Australian commander states that the Americans did excellent work, considering their first time in action, and fought splendidly. The officers and men were most anxious to learn and eager for the fight. The platoons were employed in all parts of battalion formations, and men showed great dash and courage, and did splendid work with the bayonet. One platoon of E Company, under Lieutenant Clissold, did fine work throughout the operations, and never lost a single man. Sec- tion commanders had excellent control of their men at all times. The battle at Hamel was the first engagement in which any troops of the 131st Infantry took part. The men went into the fight with great dash and maintained their courage to the end, and without any strag- gling. The Australians freely expressed themselves afterwards to the effect that the only complaint they could make was that our men were too savage and swift; they displayed remarkable dash and endeavored to be first and foremost in the fight, the Australians said. Inasmuch as this was an Australian operation no account or record was made of prisoners or material directly captured by the Americans. One machine gun, however, which was captured under exceptional con- 1918 OCCUPATION OF TRENCHES 53 ditions of bravery, was presented to the organization by the Australians as a souvenir. On the 12th of August, 1918, his Majesty, the King of England, pre- sented personally eleven medals of honor to officers and men of the 131st Infantry jjarticipating in this engagement. July 6th. Practice occupation of trenches northwest of Pierregot (skeleton organizations). July 8th. Skeleton occupation of trenches beyond Contay. July 12-13. Maneuvers in same territory. July 17-18. Entire regiment at 9 p. m. occupied the trenches in the Baizieux system for 24 hours, then returned to Pierregot. On the 23rd the first battalion reoccupied the trenches, and from there were sent into the front line system, under orders of the Forty-seventh division, and were attached by platoons to British companies in the line for 48 hours. Sec- ond and Third battalions remained in Pierregot, the first battalion was relieved by the second, second battalion was relieved by the third battalion. August 2-3. Following tlie first occupation, under the plan as out- lined above, the battalions were assigned to positions entire with British battalions on either sides, second battalion went in July 27th, third bat- talion July 31st. First battalion again moved forward to Baizieux trenches, 9 p. m., August 3rd, but did not relieve the third battalion, who remained in the front line trenches until night of 6th, when they were relieved by the Nineteenth London battalion (British). At 3 a. m. the regimental com- mander went forward to observe their relief. This battalion marched the entire distance from the trenches to Pierregot, arriving at 11 a. m., August 7th. Two companies of the 124th machine gun battalion were at the same time attached to a machine gun battalion of the Forty- seventh. On the night of August 2nd-3rd, upon verbal orders from the bat- talion commander, one platoon of Company L, under command of Capt. Walter H. Magner, advanced and took up a position from W27b99 to W27d36, located on the west edge of the city of Albert. At 2 o'clock on August 3rd, orders were received from the battalion connnander for the platoon to take up a position on the east edge of town at a bridge located at W28b85, covering a working party of the Twentieth, London, which were digging trenches tlirough the town. A patrol of the Twen- tieth, London, was to cover the bridge on the left and a patrol of the Nineteenth, London, the bridge on the right. When entering the town from 'the north a few of the enemy were encountered and driven off. Upon reaching the objective a strong German patrol was encountered, consisting of four machine guns and fifty to sixty rifles. After taking 54 OCCUPATION OF ALBEBT 1918 up a defensive position at the point patrols were sent to try to locate the Nineteenth, London, and Twentieth, London, on the right and left, but they could not be located. One man of the Nineteenth, London, was picked up and stated that his patrol was badly shot up, and had with- drawn. At daybreak the patrol returned to their former position west of Albert. The position assigned to these battalions was facing Albert, where they all came under fire from German trenches and German artillery. Our patrols were very active, and as a result of this activity the Germans withdrew from their forward trenches, which included the ruins of Albert to other trenches somewhat farther north. Patrols sent out by Captain Magner penetrated into and through the city of Albert, keeping enemy forces out of the city. The third battalion was in the trenches August 4tli, when orders were received by Major Allen commanding, to move the entire battalion up night of August -Ith-Sth to unoccupied German trenches. Plans were formulated by him for the move which was carried out with machine-like precision under heavy enemy bombardment of shrapnel and gas. Shells were directed on former positions in rear area of the third battalion sector, and no casualties occurred during the move. Telephone wires were laid to all companies, a new ration dump established and the men had breakfast as usual at 6 a. m. In compliance with Forty-seventh (London), division order No. 253, Regimental Field Order No. 17, Aug. 7, 1918, the preliminary moves were made for taking over the front held by the Thirty-seventh (Brit- ish) brigade, being the left brigade of the left center division of the Third Corps. The morning of August 8th other orders were received which completely changed all previous plans and dispositions. CHAPTER V THE SOMME OFFENSIVE ^• ENGAGEMENT AT GKESSAIKE WOOD AND CHIPILLY RIDGE OPERATIONS TO SEPT. 19, 1918 ; . " MAP REFERENCE 62 1)-1:40,00() : A: The morning of 8th of August, 1918, the regiment was distributed as follows: 1st Bn. (Capt. John M. Richmond, commanding.) Lawrence Farm in Baizieux System, right on the Amiens- Albert road. 2nd Bn. (Major Paul C. Gale, commanding.) In village of Baizieux. 3rd Bn. (Major Francis M. Allen, commanding.) Pierregot Regimental Hq. Supply Company, Hq. Co., Pierregot. M. G. Co. (Capt. James D. Melville, commanding.) Vignacourt. Early in the morning the regimental commander proceeded to Baizieux, where at 12 :10 p. m. orders were received from the Sixty-sixth brigade to be ready to move at a moment 's notice. At 4 :30 p. m. a message was received from the Third British Corps, advising that the 131st Infantry had been placed under the orders of the Fifty-eighth British Division, Major General Frank Ramsey command- ing, in corps reserve and would move forthwith to positions as follows : Regimental headquarters, Heilly. One battalion to trenches (in D25 and 26) north of Heilly. One battalion to valley, northwest of Heilly (J la & I 6 b). One battalion to Franvillers. Battalions were ordered forward in the following order : First battalion — Trenches north of Heilly. Second battalion — Valley northwest of Heilly. Third battalion — From Pierregot to Franvillers. Hq., Co.— Heilly. M. G. Co. — Which was understood to have reported back to Pierregot to march next day to Heilly. Movement of the First and Second battalions was completed, and they were in place at 8 :42 p. m. These battalions were distributed throughout the trenches and in the valley northwest of Heilly, over a wide area and placed in as comfortable conditions as possible for the 55 56 DESCRIPTION OF BATTLEFIELD 918 VALLEY r.KTWEEX SAILLY LE SEC AND SAILLY night ; consequently, the subsequent orders for the night of August 8th- 9th, were executed with considerable difficulty and more or less confusion. About fifteen miles east' and slightly north of Amiens, the Somme, always tortuous in this region, makes a succession of sharp bends. North of the river, and in one of those U-shaped bends, lies the village of Chip- illy, on the ridge of the same name. Northwest of this village and resem- bling an irregular letter "G" is the Malard Wood, the base of which touches the edge of the Somme and terminates north of Chipilly. Directly north of Chipilly Ridge is the Gressaire Wood, roughly shaped like the leg of a human being in a sitting posture, and terminating at the road from Corbie to Bray, its axis lying in a northeasterly direc- tion. The Chipilly Ridge and the Gressaire Wood, both of which had been strongly fortified, formed a commanding position which completely dominated the British trenches in that sector and made impossible the passage of the Somme, or any advance in that vicinity as long as they were held by the enemy. The position had been taken, but all attempts to hold it had proved abortive. After the attack at Hamel on July 4th, the British line south of the Somme had been advanced to a point directly opposite Chipilly, but the continuous enfilade fire from the ridge had made the line well-nigh untenable, and its withdrawal was, consequently, in contemplation. The British commanders, however, determined to take the bull by the horns and to make a final effort to secure the Chipilly Ridge, and the Gressaire Wood, which constituted the key to the entire sector. Under instructions to place an officer at head(iuarters. Eighteenth 1918 MOVEMENT TO HEILLY 57 Division at Heilly for orders, the regimental commander reported in ])erson. At 10 p. m. telephone orders were received from Fifty-eighth Division to move at once to assembly point on Bray-Corbie Road to a point about 3,000 yards south of Heilly (J-20-a), thence to form up, facing east (Left J 18 d 72, right J 24 d 85), across the Bray-Corbie road immediately west of the Cobar Line trench. These battalions were to be ready to attack at 1 o'clock the next morning. Due to the fact that the troops had been marching the greater portion of the day and night, one battalion and the machine gun company could not possibly arrive in time to take part in the engagement, ground had never been reconnoitred, no provision made for supplies, etc., the regimental commander made strong protest against making an attack, which promised no results, and appeared to be hopeless without previous preparation, and the co-opera- tion of supporting troops. Upon further consultation by telephone with the commanding general Fifty-eighth Division, and the corps commander, an order was issued postponing operations in that direction, and the 131st Infantry was sent forward through Vaux-sur-Somme into a posi- tion in readiness, in the valley between Vaux-sur-Somme and Sailly-le- Sec. In the meantime orders were sent to the machine gun company at Franvillers to report at Vaux via Corbie and await orders. This company did not arrive in time to participate in the engagement of the ninth. These orders having been issued the regimental commander started for the headquarters of the Fifty-eighth Division, arriving there REGIMENTAL AID S1AI1(».\ ( .,\ ( llll'ILLY ROAD AT VALLEY LEADLNci TOWARD .MALARD WOOD 58 COXDITIOX OF TKUOPy 1918 ONE EXTRA XCK TO LUED (iEUMAX DUOOUT ISE1> 1?Y KEGIMEXTAL STAFF DUUIXG Ul'EUATUJXS after midnight. The remainder of the night was spent in going over the situation and arranging for the troops to bivouac on their arrival in various ravines where they would escape observation and obtain some measure of much needed rest. On the morning of August 9th the troops arrived in the Somme Valley in an extremely exhausted condition, the Third battalion coming the entire distance from Pierregot. The Second battalion came in with- out transports or Lewis guns, and only 100 rounds of small arms am- munition per man. Consequently, the men suffered from lack of water and rations. Transport came in later in the day. Company H secured their Lewis guns and employed them in the engagement. Other compa- nies of the Second battalion went in without Lewis guns. The British plan contemplated an assault at 5 p. m., starting from a jumping-off line extending from a point 900 yards northwest of the intersection of the Bray-Corbie and Morlancourt-Chipilly roads, south- east to the point where the road running northeast from Chipilly termi- nates at the edge of the ridge. The assault was to be made by the Tenth (London) battalion (175th British Brigade) on the right, the 131st Infantry in the center, and the 175th Brigade — less the Tenth (London) battalion, but with one battalion of the 174th Brigade attached on the left. At 1:30 p. m. Colonel Sanborn was informed of this attack and ordered to reconnoitre in the direction of the Gressaire Wood, but the lieutenant colonel and 918 JUMPING OFF LINE 59 the battalion commanders who were sent forward, accompanied by scouts, soon returned with the report that such a reconnaissance could not be effected inasmuch as the enemy was in occupation of the Malard Wood and the region beyond it. The 131st Infantry was in march formation on the road west of Sailly-le-Sec, when at 3 :30 p. m. the commanding general of the Fifty- eighth Division came in person to deliver the order of attack to the regimental commander, but realizing that the troops could not possibly reach the jumping-off line at 5 o'clock, postponed the zero hour to 5:30 p. m. A message was also received at 2 p. ni., stating that the enemy line was at K 21 b 87 to K 34 central, and that American 131st Infantry regiment take steps to clear any enemy west of the starting line with the assistance of tanks. These tanks never took part in the engagement. One of them ran into a ditch west of Chipilly, where it remained, another was unable to proceed beyond the entrance to the valley up which the regiment advanced to the attack. If any other tanks were assigned to the troops for offensive purposes they were not in evidence. The jumping-off line extended from K 15 d 0.5 K 28 a 8.5 to K 35 c 6.5 forward of which an artillery barrage was to open at 5 :30 p. m. (Zero Hour) and to continue to Zero, plus 20 minutes, when it was to lift and continue at the rate of 100 yards in four minutes beyond the objective to a final position, forming a protective barrage. The final objective for the 131st Infantry was on the line Bray- ROAD PROM SAILLY LAUUETTE TO CHIPILLY ANT) ENTRANCE- TO VALLEY AT K 32B, WHERE REGIMENT TURNED IN TO FORM UP FOR THE ATTACK 60 MAECH TO POSITION 1918 FOUMIXc; CI' LINK IX VAl h'FKXSIVK. Corbie Road, from K 17 central to K 24 d 15. Orders were received so late that it was evident no dispositions could be made, except from the march, and only then if handled in the most expeditious manner. The operations officer, mounted, started down the road, giving instructions to each officer to rush his troops forward, establish company dumps near jumping-off place for their heavy packs, and to be formed on the line at 5 :30 p. m. The troops moved forward on the road, and when the head of the column reached Sailly-Laurette, came to a halt. The regimental commander started forward on foot alone, no other officers being avail- able, except Lieutenant Woodward, attached to intelligence, who joined him as the troops reached the valley leading to deploying line. The regi- mental commander preceded the troops a sufficient distance to designate the starting off lines, the approach being made up the valley between Les Celestins and the Malard Wood, and remained with them until the dis- positions were made and the forward movement commenced, then returned down the valley, and collecting runners from the reserve battalion, estab- lished headquarters in a ditch in K 32 b, remaining there until the fol- lowing afternoon after full occupation of the designated position. The advance up the valley from the Sailly-Laurette road to the starting off line was made under shell fire, troops taking artillery formation. The only casualties were two men slightly wounded. Formation was as follows: Second battalion (Major Paul C. Gale commanding) on the left; first battalion (Captain John M. Richmond commanding), on the right; third battalion (Major Francis M. Allen 1918 THE ATTACK 61 commanding-), in reserve on the Sailly-Laiirette Road at the entrance of the valley before mentio)ied. The distance from bivonac locations to the forming-up line was ap- proximately four miles and was made at a rapid gait with full packs in the hot sun and with less determined troops would have been an impos- sibility, condition of men considered. British line officers freely ex- pressed themselves that the feat could not have been accomplished with their troops. Attack line was preceded by a line of skirmishers extending along the entire front. It was the irresistible onslaught of this line that carried everything before it, except on the right, and drove the Germans in panic before them. Their retreat was so precipitous that the Ger- man battalion commander left his orders, maps and telephone switch- board in his dugout, which were gathered together and sent to divisional headquarters. Machine gun nests forward of the left battalion were cleaned out as they progressed. The second battalion, with the exception of some scattering detachments of disorganized platoons, arrived on its objective and was reported in position at 8 p. m. Intrenching tools were brought up by lorries during the night, and were forwarded by carrying parties. Battalion commanders reported ammunition about exhausted at that time, and a supply was taken from the Third battalion in reserve, and forwarded. This was replaced from dump established at Sailly-le-Sec shortly after 8 p. m., after which time the supply was ample. The Second battalion reported that the 175th British brigade, supposed to be connected with their left, did not arrive H i .^ ' 1 1 BHP^^^^^- 1 r ^■^ ^1 ' ^ COXTIMATION VALLKV. 12M> IIATTALION F()K.MIX<; ll' I.IXE 62 DIFFICULTIES ENCOUNTERED 918 LINE LOOKING on time, but followed liehinci their left at 6 p. in. for a few hundred yards, then changed direction to the northwest in the direction of their position. The Second battalion was, therefore, without left flank support until the following- morningi The First battalion on the right and the Tenth (London) battalion still further to the right, encountered much heavier resistance, and were held up by machine gun fire at the start from the Chipilly Ridge, and on their immediate front and right. At 7 :26 p. m. the commanding otficer. Tenth (London) battalion, )-epoi'ted from east side of ]\Ialard Wood that his command and the First battalion were held up by machine gun fire from w^oods in K 34 a 4 5, and asked for assistance. A company from the reserve battalion (Company K, Captain George R. Miller commanding), was sent to their assistance, which promptly cleared the situation. The presence of the enemy at Chipilly, and a number of machine guns on that ridge rendered further advance on this portion of the line impossible until after dark, when a British detachment mopped up the town of Chii)illy, captured about 300 prisoners, a machine gun commander in the cemetery and. his guns along the ridge. The First battalion commander reported that his bat- talion at 9 :20 p. m., August 9th, was on a line from near the southwest- ern corner of Gressaire Wood, K 28 a 8.2 east to the northern end of the Chipilly Ridge (K 29 central), thence south to the road leading to Chip- illy (K 35 a 6.5), w^here they dug in. He had no connection wdth the Second battalion on the left, or 175th brigade on right (Tenth London). The advance was continued after the mopping up of Chipilly, and at 1918 OBJECTIVE REACHED 63 6 a. m., August lOth, we were able to report to the eommandiiig general, P^ifty-eighth Division, that our objective had been reached, and that we were in position, as ordered, holding the forward line with First and Second battalions, plus one company. The remainder of the Third bat- talion moved up to reinforce the line. At 7 :20 a. m., August 10th, Major Gale, Second battalion, was or- dered to reconnoitre German trenches in K 12 d 8 6, to determine if occu- pied by British troops, and if so occupied to move his left to the right and face east on line about K 18 d 8 7, extending north beyond the Bray- Corbie Road to K 12 d 6 6, which disposition could not l)e made on ac- count of shell fire. The line of the left battalion (Second battalion), as completed on the 10th, extended from the intersection of the Morlancourt-Eitnehem Road (K 17 central), thence •east along the Bray-Corbie Road to a point 600 yards west of the double telegraph post (L13 central). The line of the right battalion (First battalion), connecting with the Second battalion on the eastern edge of Gressaire Wood (K18 d 9.8), extended south to the junction of the Bray-Chipilly and Eitnehem roads (K 24 central). An outpost was located in observation at the double telegraph post. An incident of occupation on the lOth showed the steadiness and composure of our troops. At 3 p. m. a group of five Germans, with heavy machine guns, came down the road from Bray. A Lewis gun post was pushed out to L 13 a 7.3. Fire was held until enemy arrived within 500 CEI.KSTIM': WOOD l.doKlMi It )\V AIM ) .SSAllil'. \Si 64 INCIDENT OF OCCUPATION 1918 LOOKING EAST INTO THE VALLEY FROM NORTH ElxiK OF MALARD WOOD AT POSITION OF 3RI) BATTALION DURING FIRST DAYS OF FIGHTING yards, when all were shot down by snipers. Later, four machine guns were brought up under cover of crops, but were stopped by Lewis aun fire. Still later these guns opened intermittently until outflanked by a platoon under Lieutenant Porter, when they withdrew. From the first occupation of the line it was heavily shelled and gassed. Troops were completely worn out and officers showed effects of constant strain and loss of sleep. During the afternoon of the 10th it was decided to send other troops forward about 200 yards to occupy a line in L 14 and L 20 west of Bray, and message was sent to com- manding officer. Second battalion, to reorganize getting companies to- gether. At 9 p. m. Australians assembled under cover of woods in the rear of lines in K 23, thence passed through our lines along the Bray- Corbie road to positions noted in L 14 and L 20. During the night the 131st Infantry changed front and occupied a line extending from the crossroads at the eastern edge of the woods, north of the Bray-Corbie road, south to the Somme and thence along the right bank to a point south of the Chipilly Ridge in touch with the troops on the left bank, entire line facing east. Dispositions were as follows : First battalion, from the Bray-Chip- illy Road at K 24 central, in a southwesterly direction along the ridge, overlooking the valley of the Somme River, to K 29 central, connecting with the Third battalion, which from the junction point established a line of sentry posts with Lewis machine guns, south to the point where the river bends to the west, southeast of Chipilly at Q 11 d 5.8. The Second 1918 NEW DISPOSITIONS 65 i-.^^r^-::^i:j,.jx::^ m LOOKING NORTH IN VALLEY K 32B, SHOWlN(i (JEUALVN DUGOUTS USED BY RESERVE BATTALION battalion in reserve was sent back and distributed in shelters along the valley southwest of Malard Wood, near regimental headquarters, which were located at K-32.b-6-3, which position was held until August 14th, the enemy in the meantime on the night of llth-12th having been driven out of Eitnehem, and the pocket south of that village. Somewhere around 10 or 11 o'clock the night of the 10th a couple of lights were noted on the side hill to the left up the valley from the regimental P. C, one light was near the top of the hill, the second some distance lower down, forming; evidently a sighting line for one of the enemy planes in the air at that time. When questioned the officer in charge of signals knew nothing about it. A detail was sent up at once to investigate, which soon returned with the information that no one could be found in the vicinity. At this time large enemy bombing planes were flying over every night, dropping huge bombs on the positions where our artillery was located in an effort to destroy the guns. When one of these bombs exploded, even across the river from headquarters, there was a preceptible shake felt even at the bottom of the big dugout some 40 feet under ground, where the office force worked. Officers and men camped along the side hill, near the office in shal- low pits, to keep from being hit by flying shell fragments, but no protec- tion against a direct hit. Over these pits were constructed roofs of boards, corrugated iron, etc., covered with dirt and tufts of grass as a camouflage against observation. Q6 REGIMENTAL DUMP BLOWN UP 1918 ABANDONED BRITISH MACHINE (iUN POST IN MAI>ARI) WOOD. RETAKEN BY 131ST INF. In the valley below regimental headquarters was a dump containing about 200 rounds of trench mortar ammunition. The incident of the signal lights passed out of mind and by 1 a. m. every one, except the working force down below, was asleep. About 4 a. m. there came a crash, a sprinkling of dirt into the shelters and everybody awoke at once. A bomb or shell had struck the dump and blown up the ammunition. The explosion wrecked our kitchen, rations and boxes containing regimental records. Two cooks who were sleeping under the cooker were injured, one severely, being struck by fragments, sustaining a gash on the head, another in the chest. The second was only slightly wounded, but was badly injured internally by the concussion and died some months later. One Australian soldier was killed, eleven horses and mules belonging to the regiment were either killed outright or so badly injured that it became necessary to shoot them. We realized the importance of the signals seen some hours before. The day following some Australians caught the German who did the work. He had hid somewhere, coming out after the battle passed over him, donned an Australian uniform and was working the game within our lines. Subsequent events were of no interest to him. At 11 :45 a. m., August 12th, a message was received from the Fourth Australian Division that a liaison force, under command of Brigadier General E. A. Wisdom, would assume command of the corps' battle front, north of the Somme, and the point of junction with the 1918 LIAISON FORCE ORGANIZED 67 Third Corps' boundary, which became effective ou that date at 5 p. m. The troops composing this liaison force were the 131st American Infan- try and the Thirteenth Australian brigade with attached units. During the afternoon of the 13th the commanding general of the liaison forces stated verbally that the following night the 131st Infantry would occupy a new position west of Bray. In the meantime advance parties, consisting of machine guns and trench mortar units of the regi- ment would relieve similar units of the Australians. Movement to be com- pleted before daylight, night of 13th-14th, which was accomplished with- out incident. Movement to new positions designated under cover of darkness necessitated crossing of an open plateau between Eitnehem and Bray, extending to the south end of pocket at the river bend, con- siderably elevated, under complete observation of the enemy in daylight, and shelled at intervals, both day and night. The distances troops cov- ered in reaching these positions varied from three to seven kilometers. It was contemplated that the occupation of this position should be in depth with one battalion in the forward line disposed in groups of resist- ance at considerable intervals, supported by machine gun and trench mor- tars located to command all areas of approach. Immediate suj^ports dug in and occupied narrow, deep trenches, presenting the least possible target for enemy artillery, support battalion in previously occupied positions about three kilometers back, reserve battalion in Malard Wood, five kilo- meters in rear of forward lines, entire dispositions when completed at 6 a. m. 13th, were as follows : First battalion. Companies C, B and D, in the order named, from Bray-Eitnehem Road, at L 14 d 65, thence south along the Somme VALLEY LEADIXO TO GRESSAIKE WOOD LOOKING WEST TOWARD THE TOWN OF CTIIPILLY FROM EDGE OF CELESTINE WOOD RELIEF OF THE REGIMENT 1918 GRESSAIRE WOOD River front to end of pocket at L 32 d 52, a company in support east of Eitnehem in 25 b d, from which position movement could be made to rein- force any part of the line. Third battalion in support along the ridge, west of Eitnehem, from K 24 central, southwest, then south to Q 5, central. Second battalion in reserve in Malard Wood, near regimental H(i. K, 27 and K 33. One platoon was sent as a liaison group to the Seventeenth Division, south of the Somme river. Night of 17th-18th, the Second battalion relieved the Third bat- talion in support area. Third battalion relieved the First battalion in the front line ; First battalion went into reserve position near regimental headquarters, K 32. Night of August 19th-20th the 131st Infantry was relieved by the Ninth Australian brigade. Arrived at Hamel early morning of 20th. On the way out in the early morning hours the commanding oiScer called on General Wisdom, the commanding general of the liaison force, who was still asleep. When advised of the call, the general got up with a blanket wrapped around him, and farewells were exchanged. The general expressed deep regret that the American troops were leaving him, and said he had only words of praise to offer in return for their fidelity, exemplary conduct and fortitude under many trying ordeals. Thus we passed from under the command of one of the most considerate, honor- able and brave officers with whom we have ever served, the memory of which service will ever remain an honor and a pleasure. 1918 BRITISH FAILURE 69 The failure of the British forces to take and hold the Chipilly Ridge and heights adjacent thereto was due to two reasons. First, the position lies in an angle, the north arm of which extends east and west along the Bray-Corbie Road from the old German trench line to a line drawn north and south, east of Sailly-Laurette, thence south through Malard Wood to the Somme River. The position was dominated by artillery from the direction of Morlancourt on the north and the heights east in the di- rection of Bray ; second, the British had once taken the position from whence they were driven out with large losses, due to both frontal and flank fire. Their troops had lost confidence in their ability to either take or hold the position, after it was taken. A condition of emergency existed early in August immediately fol- lowing the advance of the British lines on the south of the Somme River to a point south of Chipilly. The British line was located on flat ground, completely overlooked from the high blutfs on the north. Our infantry experienced the same conditions as confronted the British. From October 10 to October 19th roads leading to positions, espe- cially the Bray-Corbie road, and roads over which supplies, rations, etc., were forwarded to troops were heavily shelled at times day and night. Forward trenches were also shelled periodically, resulting in nearly as many casualties as were inflicted during the advance on the night of August 9th-10th, and the day following. Trenches in same localities were so close to enemy lines that men could not expose themselves for a moment without being shot at by TJfk ?■-■ r- j ii \. i i a jf/\ iBM m L mmfLij » M ' ^8 GRESSAIRE WOOD. FOOT OF (iERMAX OI'.SERVATIOX TREE IX FORECROUXD 70 TRENCH CONDITIONS 1918 WKST SIDK OF (JKKSSAIKE WOOD, ilKUMA.N 77 MM. (UN 11II> IN P.Kl'Sll snipers. Several counter-attacks were launched without success. The enemj^ finally gave up their efforts and confined themselves principally to artillery fire on positions and advancing: machine gun detachments forward, under cover of darkness, wliich were withdrawn at or before daylight. Usually shelling was accompanied by gas, especially during the night, which settled in the valleys and woods, resulting in spoiled. rations before they could be distributed and consumed. The tenacity wnth which our troops held all positions taken appeared to exert as depress- ing an influence on the enemy as corresponding g-ratification on the part of the British. Numerous patrols on all fronts resulted in the capture of some pris- oners, as well as preventing reconnaissance of our positions. While we were attached to the liaison force one Australian brigade adjutant, sev- eral other officers and non-commissioned officers were assigned to the regiment by recpiest for purposes of instruction ; their services were in- valuable, familiarizing the regimental staflf with British methods. They were also of great assistance in facilitating the procurement of various supplies, besides aiding in handling questions of reports, liaison and orders. Some officers and men of the regiment who gained their first battle experience in this engagement, were wounded, and later returned to the United States, gave to the press lurid accounts of their terrible expe- 1918 VISITORS AFTER THE BATTLE 71 riences in the "bloody battle of Chipilly Ridge," which statement led some people to believe that losses were excessive. As a matter of fact a study of casualties will show that considering the ground gained in the face of veteran German soldiers, the amount of war material captured, the number of prisoners taken, the great number of enemy killed and the period under fire, our casualties were as low, or lower than those expe- rienced in almost any other major engagement during the war. A few days after the battle Lieutenant General Tasker H. Bliss, U. S. A., who had known the regiment at Ft. Sam Houston in 1916, came up from Paris and called to express his appreciation of the work per- formed. We were also honored by a call from General Sir H. S. Rawlinson, Bart. G. C. V. 0., K. C. B., K. C. M. G., commanding the Fourth British Army, who expressed his admiration for the gallant conduct displayed in the action. Many other officers came up during the next few days, including the division staff, also General Bell himself, who was at that time, and has ever since been proud of the accomplishment of a part of his division on that occasion. At that time we did not appreciate the full effect of the victory, but we all felt gratified and pleased that the boys from Chicago had acquitted themselves so splendidly in the first offensive in which they played so important a part. REAR VIEW OF CAl'TL RED (iERMAX 77 MM. WOOD ;UN OX WEST EDOE OF GRESSAIRE 72 COMMENDATORY LETTERS 918 (JF.UMA.N AKTILLKHY DIMP, ElxiK OF (JRESSAIRE WOOD The appreciation felt by the British of the successful attacks carried on by this regiment is shown in the following : To G. 0. C. 33rd American Div., 10th August, 1918. Hearty congratulations on successful attack carried out by 131st In- fantry Regiment yesterday. Corps Commander, Third Corps, British. HEADQUARTERS FIFTY-EIGHTH DIVISION X. viii. xviii. Dear General Bell: I wish to express to you my appreciation of the great assistance afforded to my Division by your 131st regiment in the attack on Gressaire Wood yesterday afternoon, and my admiration for the way in which it carried out very difficult maneuver to get into the battle line and for the stout way in which it overcame all resistance. I enclose a letter of thanks, which I would be glad if you would for- ward to the officer commanding the regiment. Yours sincerely, FRANK RAMSAY. 1918 COMMENDATORY LETTERS 73 The letter in question read as follows : HEADQUARTERS FIFTY-EIGHTH DIVISION Dear Colonel Sanborn : • , - ■ I have to thank you for the very great assistance which your regi- ment afforded in its attack on Gressaire Wood yesterday afternoon. You had a very difficult task to perform and the way in which your battalions maneuvered and took the objective allotted to them reflects the greatest credit on all ranks. I have to thank you personally in the way in which you led your regiment on to its battle alignment and which very materially assisted in the success of the operation. Yours sincerely, FRANK RAMSAY. Letter from Lieut. General Sir R. H. K. Butler, M. C. M. G., C. B., Commanding Third Army Corps. Beverley, Camberley, August 13th. Dear General Bell : It was, and is, a great disappointment to me that I was unable to visit either you, Wolfe, or Sanborn, before I left. I hadn't recovered from that bad dose of "flu," and they wouldn't let me stick it out any longer. /' Y 1 %^ ^' /' ^-^ s K • ^ ' 1 ^ ^ h 41 i / If M .1. ITv. MJ^jtifi mL ^MtfMioflH^HHj^^^^Hl^^ HplHHH^BwtaHHHI^H ^^^KSife- "^^H ll^^v -1 ^IHIH^HHIi^^HHH^Hili^^ . ^«!««PWfr=' '"^ DIRECT HIT OX A GERMAN CAISSON, GRESSAIRE WOOD 74 COMMENDATORY LETTERS 1918 BRITISH MACHINE GUN POST ABANDONED AUGUST 8TI1 131ST INFANTRY, AUGUST 9 RETAKEN BY THE I want to take this opportunity of adding my congratulations to the many over the fine performance of the regiment north of the Somme, more especially as it came at the end of a somewhat forced and arduous march under new conditions. I need hardly add how proud I am and how much I appreciate the honor of being in command the first time the American troops went into battle with the Third Corps. As I understand the situation at the moment, it seems that the whole of the Sixty-sixth brigade is likely to be now engaged as a brigade under the Australian Corps, in fact, I tried to arrange this before I left, so I am not bothering either Wolfe or Sanborn with letters, but I should be grateful if you would at a convenient moment show them both this letter and convey to them and all the officers and men engaged my con- gratulations and personal thanks. I hope to be back quite fit in about a fortnight, in the meantime I wish you the best of luck. Sincerely, r". h. k. butler. THIRD CORPS, G. 0. 1565 20th August, 1918. Major-General George Bell, Jr., Commanding Thirty-third American Division. On the departure of your division from this Corps, I write to ask you to convey to all ranks under your command our thanks and appre- 1918 COMMENDATORY LETTERS 75 ciation of the excellent work that the division has clone during its period of attachment to the Third Corps. The 131st Regiment of the Sixty-sixth Brigade carried out the at- tack on the 9th of August in a manner which reflected great credit, not only on its gallantry, but on its previous training ; and the work done by the whole of your division during its periods of attachment and of holding the line has been of a high order. All ranks of the Third British Corps wish the Thirty-third Ameri- can Division the best of luck in the future, and in watching its future victorious career will always remember with great pleasure the time which they have spent together with their American comrades in arms. ALEX. GODLEY, Lieutenant-General Commanding Third Corps. Third Corps, H. Q., 20-8-18. Letter from Gen. Sir H. S. Rawlinson, Bart. G. C. V. 0., K. C. B., K. C. M. G., commanding Fourth British Army : ^, .^ ^,. , ,„. . ..... Fourth Armv No. G. S. 2/13. Thirty-third Illinois Division : On the departure of the 33rd Division from the Fourth Army I desire officially to record my admiration of the energy, keenness and sol- dierly qualities exhibited by all ranks during their period of training LINE ON THE RRAY-rORBIE ROAD HELD F.Y THE 131ST INFANTRY MORNING OF AU(J. lOTII, 191S. TWO GRAVES OF 131ST INFANTRY SOLDIERS KILLED ALKiUST lOTH IN CENTER OF riIOTO(;RAl'Il 76 CAPTURES 1918 LOOK IN (■ W under my orders. The marked advance which has been made and the satisfactory standard of fighting efficiency that has been reached reflect high credit on all concerned, and guarantee that the Division will render brilliant service to the Allied cause wherever it may be employed as a fighting Division in face of the enemy. My regret is that it will not have further opportunity for offensive action whilst in the Fourth British Army, but portions of the Division have already acquitted themselves most gallantly, and I desire to tender my warm thanks to those units engaged for their brilliant successes in the Hamel offensive and at Gressaire Wood. I greatly regret the departure of the Division and offer to General Bell and all ranks under his command the best of good fortune in the strenuous times which lie before them. RAWLINSON, General, Commanding Fourth Army. H. Q., Fourth Army, 21st August, 1918. CAPTURES Six guns, caliber not noted. Two minenwerfers. Seven 5.9 howitzers. Thirteen 4.2 guns. Two 10-inch guns. Two French 75 mm. guns. One German aeroplane in perfect condition. Between 75 and 100 machine guns. Fifty-nine Mauser rifles, other rifles not counted and other material in large amounts. Approximately 700 prisoners. 1918 BESTING AT HAMEL 77 FOLLOWING THE PERIOD OF OCCUPATION August 19th. Relieved from duty with IV Australian Corps. August 20th. Entire regiment spent the day in Hamel resting from the previous all night movement out of the Chipilly Ridge district. Many of the officers and men availed themselves of the opportunity of examining the ground over which the battle of Hamel was fought. Everywhere the scene presented utter ruin and desolation. What few trees were left standing were apparently dead, their limbs torn and twisted, the trunks scarred by bullet and shell wounds. All of the houses were roofless, the majority of them with only frag- ments of bare walls left standing. Open ground spaces showed effects of heavy fire, unfilled shell holes crowding close one upon another. The field was still littered with broken weapons, scraps of clothing and equip- ment. Regimental headquarters were established in an old stable over which a portion of the roof remained. The entrance was over a great pile of rocks, part of a fallen wall. A few pieces of boards sufficed for an im- provised office table and here the ever-ready typewriter was set up, click- ing off" the routine work of the day. August 21st. Leaving Hamel at 6 :00 p. m., the regiment staged at Aubigny several hours, at which point men were given an opportunity to bathe in the river, were furnished with clean underwear, some new cloth- ing issued, also given an opportunity to delouse. At 6 :00 p. m., 21st, march was continued to Poulainville via Daours-Vecquemont-Bussy- Allonville. A STREET «CENE IX EITNKHEM MOVE TO A NEW SECTOR 1918 CIIIPILLY CHURCH At Poulainville men were billeted night of 21st and 22nd. During night of August 23-24th, transportation was sent forward to St. Roche ; a railroad station on the outskirts of Amiens and placed on trains. The regiment moved out early in the evening of 23rd, marching to within about two miles of Amiens, where it went into bivouac along the road pre- paratory to taking trains scheduled to leave as follows : August 2Uh. First battalion and regimental commander, 3:52 a. m. ; regimental headquarters, headquarters company, supply company, medical and ordnance detachments, lieutenant colonel, 7 :52 a. m. ; second battalion and 66th brigade headquarters, 11 :52 a. m., third battalion 3 :52 p. m. As troops arrived at the station the Y. M. C. A. representa- tive attached to the regiment served hot chocolate and biscuits, which were very much appreciated by everybody, after having slept out on the ground in a drizzling rain for several hours and going on board trains without breakfast. This movement transferred the regiment into an entirely new tield of operations. Moving south through the outskirts of Paris thence east through the shattered town of Chateau-Thierry through the celebrated home of a certain brand of Champagne, Epernay, detraining at Ligny about 35 miles south of Verdun the morning of August 25th. From this point the regiment was distributed in billets — regimental headquar- ters, first battalion and machine gun company at Salmange ; second bat- talion, Gery ; third battalion, Loisev. 1918 MOVE TO VERDUN DISTRICT 79 August 26th. Assigned to Fifth American Corps, First American Army. August 31st. Second battalion niarch to Salmange. September 1st. The three following days were devoted to maneuvers ; September 2nd, by battalions ; September 3rd, by regiment ; September -tth, by division ; September 5th, a ten kilometer practice march. September 6th. Early in the day verbal information was received and warning notice sent to all concerned to the effect that a movement would take place that night which was later confirmed. At 7:15 p. m. by means of busses the entire organization were transported to following stations : Regimental headquarters, headquarters company, medical de- tachment, machine gun company, and first battalion, to Baleieourt ; sec- ond battalion, to Nixeville ; third battalion, to Camp de Sivry. September 9th. Orders received sending regiment forward as bri- gade reserve into position north of Verdun. Movement was completed night of 9th-10tli, to dispositions as follows: Regimental hdqrs., hdqrs., company, medical detachment, supply company and machine gun com- pany to Delolime-Lombut Farm. Accommodations there were not suffi- cient for office of regimental headquarters, as nearly all buildings had been badly smashed by shell fire ; therefore the headquarters group was placed in an old camp of dug-outs and huts in a small wood on the ridge overlooking Verdun known as the Bois de Poupe. The first battalion was near by in the shelters of Delolime consisting of huts with convenient dug-outs; second battalion, Bois Bourrus (East) ; third battalion, Bois Bourrus (West), all under cover of woods. This was known as the Fromerville sector. Considerable difficulty was experienced here in getting men under cover. The sector was filled with French artillery, guides did not report LO(>KIX(; WEST TOWAKli 1K»1 Ill-K ri-:Li:(;KA I'l I roLlO O.N r.KAV 80 MR. ROSENWALD'S VISIT 1918 FIRST BATTALION P. C. AND AID STATION. RIVER ROAD BETWEEN CHIPILLY AND BITNEHEM, WHERE PVT. BURSON, M. C, WAS KILLED as promised and in many eases shelter from continued rain was not found until late the next day. Septcmher 16th. Mr. Julius Rosenwald, of Chicago, paid a flying visit to see Colonel Abel Davis and such men as he could locate who came from the big mercantile establishment of Sears, Roebuck & Co. That evening Brigadier General Wolf gave a dinner in his honor at his P. C. in Germonville. The occasion was greatly enjoyed by all, this being the first time any of our prominent people had ventured as far forward as the front line, bringing fresh news from the folks at home. The assembly was continued until nearly midnight. Shortly before breaking up, while a general conversation was in progress, suddenly came a great crash that shook things up more or less. Most of us by this time were familiar with these frequent outbursts but not so General Rosenwald, as we had named him. He was not at all excited, but naturally asked what had broke loose. Jerry was in the habit about 10 :00 or 11 :00 p. m. daily of sending over some of his big planes in an effort to destroy the railhead and dumps at Germonville. This was one of his nightly pleasantries. The bombing was also accompanied by dropping a few big shells into the area, search- ing out gun emplacements which were numerous in the vicinity. The crash heard was one of these big shells which dropped a few hundred feet beyond the general's quarters. The bombardment kept up for about an hour, furnishing an interesting experience which will probably 918 A NIGHT BOMBARDMENT 81 CAI'TIKEI) (JERMAX THKXCII KS M )F BKAY-CORr.IE ROAD not soon be forgotten by Mr. Rosenwakl. We were all delighted to see him. His conduct at the front and on this occasion showed the qualities of the man who had been eminently successful in mercantile life, selected by the government for a post of honor and at the same time kindly, affable and genial to the general or the private soldier, qualities which endear him to all with whom he comes in contact. Septemher 18th. Regimental headquarters were moved to Choisel Farm to make room for a balloon observation section (French) which occupied our old quarters in the wood. This movement was a part of the great concentration preparatory to the attack on the Argonne Forest lUPPt)RT TRENCHES OF THE 1ST BATTALION IN FRONT OF EITNEIIEM Sig. 10 82 EECONNOITEEING A NEW FRONT 1918 LAST STAMi (P|- CKKMANS I .\ i: 1 TN !■; I I I :.\l I'.I.M'. .\ I . W I A hl'O IMACIIIXE OUN I'osi rio.NS which commenced the 26th. Every inch of available space was crowded. Night after night long columns of heavy and light artillery moved slowly along the muddy roads in ever falling rain. It is stated that 3,928 cannon were placed in position between the 9th and 26th of September. Between the 10th and 20th most of the time of higher officers was spent in making reconnaissance of the front in anticipation of the occupa- tion to follow later. ^ECTIOX OF GERMAN TRENCHES ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF BRAY CHAPTER VI THE ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE FORGES WOOD ENGAGEMENT, OPERATIONS TO OCTOBER 9TH MAP REFERENCE: VERDUN, B. 1:20,000 On the 20th of September, 1918, the 131st Infantry was stationed in the Verdnn district as folk)WS : Regimental headqnarters, Choisel Farm ; first battalion, headquar- ters company, machine gun company, Wood Delolime; second battalion, Wood Bourrus (East) ; third battalion. Wood Bourrus (West). The regiment was designated at that time as the division reserve, operating under the plan of defense of the Mort-Homme sub-sector, the forward elements of which were facing north in position about twelve kilometers northwest of Verdun, at the north base of Dead Man's Hill, famous as a battle ground in the struggle of the French to hold Verdun against the attacks of the Germans during the present war, during which operations in excess of 1,000,000 soldiers gave up their lives. Through this hill is a tunnel several niiles in length constructed by the Germans. This tunnel has not been used recently, except as an entrance to a French observation post, overlooking the German lines beyond, across the Forges SUPPLY COMPANY IIDQKS., (JERMOXVII.LE 83 84 BATTLE GROUND OF SEPT. 26 1918 AEROPLANE VIEW FORGES SWAMP NORTH TO GERCOURT AND DRILLANCOURT 918 TROOPS MOVE INTO POSITIONS 85 S*fi'i VIEW SOl'l'Il FROM BETIIENCOL HT Ruins of the Town in Foreground Creek and intervening' swamp land, this swamp averaging in width about 200 meters. For some days prior to the 20th considerable activity was noted, large numbers of French guns were brought up and placed in position, the area was filled with troops, crowding everybody into the smallest pos- sible space, the general impression being that some offensive was con- templated. The night of September 22nd-23rd the second battalion took over the east half of Strong Point Jaques, relieving company E of the 132nd Infan- try, in trenches of occupation, at which time the machine gun company, trench mortars and 37 millimeter cannon platoon also went forward. The third battalion occupied the west of Strong Point Jaques. The first battalion remained in Delolime Wood until night of 23rd-24th, when the troops were sent forward to Bethencourt trenches north of Chattan- court. The same night company B, 124th Machine Gun Battalion, moved forward and was attached to the third battalion. Company A, 1st Gas Kegiment, was sent up to be attached to the forward battalions. Septemher 2ith. Regimental headquarters was established at P. C. Ret'hel in trenches north of Chattancourt. Orders were issued for an attack at 5:30 a. m., the 25th, but action was postponed upon a report ATTACK POSTPONED 918 of the regimental commander based on information secured by patrols that the Forges Creek and swamp could not be passed on the regimental front without preparation. The 108th Engineers worked out a plan to carry forward fascines, planks, etc., hiding them in the bottom of the forward trenches to be taken out under the protection of a barrage at daylight for the purpose of making crossings. September 26th. At 1 :00 a. m. the regimental commander, opera- tions officer, and signals detachment w^ent forward to P. C. and signal station established in trenches overlooking the Forges Creek Valley, the Forges Wood and tlie trenches on the slopes east and northeast of Beth- encourt. Picking their way through the batteries ranged in the ravines and along the rear slopes, slipping in the muddy paths and around old shell craters the party finally came to an old dugout in the line of trenches over the high ridge of hills which terminates in the famous Mort-Homme. Nothing could be seen and nothing heard except the occasional bursting of some random shells here and there in the distance. The morning was cold, the valleys were filled with a damp fog with now and then a drizzle of rain. Forward and below the men of the 131st were packed in the trenches where they had been waiting many hours, stiffened, cold and wet — waiting for the hour, soon to arrive, when they would at least feel the welcome relief of standing at full length and moving forward even though into battle. Long before daylight they commenced filing out, carrying in addition to their heavy equipment, bundles of fascines, planks FORGES SWAMP 1918 THE BARRAGE FALLS 87 '- 'Y ^ :.t / 1 ^A ~^hii^i.'i ''_,^ijp^'^!^wwBi^Bfa^8I^^B HHHHHj^PI'^ ,#'' '^^^ ^ -^ *■■ :^ CRAVE IN FOKCKS SWAMP and duck boards to throw across the marshy grounds and creek to facili- tate their crossing. Would they make it? If the Germans had known what was going on in the stillness of the night under cover of fog and darkness, no crossing could have been forced over that piece of marsh- land and water in the face of such concentrated shell fire as they might have thrown there. Fortunately they never believed the thing possible, never suspected the movement. Following lines of white tape laid through openings in the wire and across open spaces, on these boys of ours went quiet, serious and determined. They reached the crossing point and with the assistance of the engineers quickly reached the other side, form- ing up on the road beyond. A few shots were fired by retreating patrols without doing any damage. Here they waited until our barrage fell and lifted. When that barrage started it seemed as though all the pent up thunder in the world had broken forth in one great indescribable fury. More than three thousand of our own and French cannon spoke as one ; some firing the barrage, some firing on enemy positions forward ; others firing to our left and on the heights east of the Meuse River. To those standing on the hill above it appeared as though the air was crowded with whining, shrieking swarms of shells which never stopped or never diminished in volume until the end. The Hun by this time knew some- thing was happening and commenced throwing his heavy shells along the front but too late. A few men were hit, a few killed. After that without ATTACK ORDERS 1918 observation the firing from enemy guns was wild and of no effect. Long after the advance had started the screen of fog and smoke remained so thick that progress was possible only by taking compass bearings. Orders for the attack provided for the forming up north of Forges Creek immediately south of the Bethencourt-Forges Road, extending from a point about one-half kilometer east of Bethencourt to a point ap- proximately two kilometers farther east. The line of advance was laid out slightly west of north to the inner south edge of the Jure Woods, thence through the edge of these woods northeast, thence east to the Meuse River, where troops .were to dig in and hold the front. The northern boundary of the line of occupation was slightly south of Danne- voux, the southern boundary was extended southeast along the river bottom to the Gercourt-Consenvoye Road, the triangle through which no advance was made lying between the right flank and north of the Forges Woods, was mopped up by supporting troops, the entire movement having been duly completed and the position occupied at 12:12 p. m. The march on the left covered a line of seven kilometers from its forming up place in front of the trenches. During the advance it v/as necessary to overcome and mop up the following lines of trenches ex- tending across the front : Cervaux, Besage, Billemont, Lenimo, and Berny, and the flank trenches nearly a kilometer in extent along the edge of the Jure Woods, also the towns of Drillancourt aud Gercourt, besides innumerable strong points, all covered by wide bands of barbed wire en- tanglements. The supporting troops on the right were the 132nd infan- try, on the left the 318th Infantry of the 80th Division. The latter, how- ever, was not in position when the attack started, and connection was established with them but once until some time after our objective was reached. The failure of this division to support our line on the left neces- RAFFECOURT MILL RUINS AND THE ROAD OX WHICH THE RIGHT OF THE 131ST INFANTRY FORMED UP ON THE MORNING OF SEPT. 2CTH, 1918 1918 FAILURE OF SUPPORT 89 sitated the putting in of the support battalion to clean up a portion of the sector assigned to them, also for the protection of the flank, which was in the air during the entire movement. The barrage which preceded the troops was laid down by the 212th French Artillery and was perfect in its plan and execution, A smolje screen was also laid on the jumping off position by a detachment of the First Gas Regiment which was very effective. This screen and the fog which prevailed at the time prevented visual observation until the troops reached the ridge overlooking Gercourt and Drillancourt. As the battalion forward lines came over this ridge the entire regimental battle front came into view with its long lines of skirmishers and combat groups pushing rapidly forward ahead of them. Toward the Meuse River were scattered bunches of Germans seeking safety in flight. With cheers along the entire line, heavy fire was opened on the fleeing enemy, which seeing no chance of escape, threw down its arms and held up hands in token of surrender. The First Gas Regiment detachment also carried mortars and thermite shells for use in the attack on strong points, but so far as observed they were not used on our sector, as the mortar batteries could not keep pace with the advance. The lines were able to move forward as scheduled with the utmost confidence. The support furnished by our own artillery consisted of harassing fire on the forward areas and was not so well regulated. The first battalion in support. Captain Carroll M. Gale commanding, in his report states that the mile of territory between their trenches and the bridge across the Forges Creek was crossed without casualties, and without loss of contact by any unit. After leaving the jumping-off line no resistance was met until they had advanced about two hundred meters, RUINS OF RAFFECOURT MILL LOOKIXC NORTH TOWARD FOROKS WOOD 90 CAPTAIN GALE'S EEPORT 1918 LEFT OF THE FORMIXG UP LINE OP THE 131ST INFANTRY NEAR THE RUINS OF AN OLD GERMAN FOOT BRIDGE OVER FORGES SWAMP where they were delayed for nearly an hour, due to the smoke screen, the smoke from the barrage, also a vast amount of wire along their front, which they were only able to pass and maintain direction by closely watch- ing compass bearings. Pushing on they reached the German main line of trenches without resistance with the exception of one field piece, which was firing point blank, and machine gun fire on the slopes. Upon reach- ing a strong point on the edge of Jure Woods an action took place in which Company C took fifteen prisoners, three machine guns, and two field pieces. While Company C was so engaged. Company B advanced on the other slope of the valley to Drillancourt and captured a machine gun nest and three prisoners, while a platoon of Company C captured six machine guns and thirty prisoners. Continuing the advance Company C went through Gercourt, where they captured some machine guns, two field pieces and forty prisoners, also a Mercedes motor ambulance. East of Jure Woods about one kilometer Company C captured a field piece, which protected by machine gun fire was firing point blank at them, part of the crew being killed. The machine gun and several abandoned field pieces were taken at this point. The battalion objective was reached at 10 :10 a. m. A consolidation was effected on a two kilometer front by platoon posts. In this forward movement Companies B and C, first battalion, and Companies E and F, second battalion, were lost in the smoke. They arrived, however, about three-quarters of an hour later and reported having attacked a strong point west of Forges Woods, where they captured 106 prisoners. In the middle of the afternoon the commanding officer of Company A reported. The battalion captured 406 prisoners of all ranks, which were sent to the rear in charge of guards. A great many of these prisoners were turned over to other organizations to be used as stretcher bearers. 1918 MAJOR RIDGWAY'S REPORT 91 carrying parties, etc., and receipts were not turned in for the total number. The second battalion. Major Hamlet C. Kidgway commanding, re- ported that they were in position long before the barrage lifted, that they encountered the enemy's fire while crossing the river Forges, and it was here that Lieutenant Schrauer was killed and several men wounded. During the advance they captured approximately 250 prisoners, thirty machine guns and ten field pieces. The engineer detachment attached to Company E went through with the battalion and fought as infantry. The trench mortar detachment attached to battalion was put out of action at the jumping-off point. During the advance several enemy aeroplanes flew over our lines and fired machine guns on the advancing troops, wounding two. Major Ridgway further reports that their mopping up parties did wonderful work, and worked so fast that the advance was never held up. The third battalion. Major Francis M. Allen commanding, was on the left flank of the advancing troops. Major Allen reports that imme- diately after crossing of the Forges River he made efforts to get in touch with the 80th Division on the left of the line, but could not locate them ; then proceeded to advance, covering with a platoon on the left flank. Major Allen states the advance was met by hostile machine gun fire,- but progress was not delayed. Upon arriving about 250 yards south of Gercourt heavy machine gun fire was encountered, also fire from snipers in the church at Gercourt. Lieutenant Bourdon of Company D, 124th Machine Gun Battalion, and Corporal Linnenkahl of Company L attacked a machine gun nest and killed two Germans operating same, and Corporal Koerper crept up to the church and captured four snipers. The advance BILLEMOXT TRENCHES, NEAR FORGES WOOD 92 MAJOE ALLEN'S SITUATION 1918 GEKMAX 8TK()N(;i'()I.\T OX HILL 281. CAl'TrUKD SIOI'T. liC, ItV I.JIST IXP. was continued, and the objective reached at 11 :00 a. m. During the advance the battalion captured large numbers of prisoners, twenty-eight machine guns, six cannon and a quantity of engineering ecjuipment. Casualties : Four killed and forty-two wounded. The correspondent of the London Daily Mail, under date of October the 2nd, 1918, comments upon this movement in part as follows : "There is one unit here which is predominantly composed of boys from Chicago. Its tlank resting on the Meuse just above Verdun, it faced a most difficult proposition. German artillery had been concentrated on the other side of the river in expectation of an attack in that direction. Then, again, they had to fight over territory which consisted of steep heights covered with thick woods and amid deep ravines. Their imme- diate difficulty, however, was to cross the marshland of the Forges Creek and to penetrate through the Bois de Forges, a thick wood covering one side of a formidable height and to be seen from a considerable distance. I stood opposite this height on the morning of the drive, and wondered how it would be possible for any troops to penetrate through the marsh- land below and up the wooded slopes. It appears that the Germans shared my thoughts for they dismissed the possibility of an attack from that direction as an impracticability and contended that the Americans would never make such an attack, massed their troops to the rear of the village of Forges to the southeast of the woods, where they thought the firm soil would attract the Americans in preference to the brook, but the Americans with admirable audacity decided to cross the marshland and the brook and sent two columns forward, one to swing to the right through the wood at the rear of the Germans (132nd Infantry), and the other in a direct line for Gercourt. The operation was a complete success. The Germans were taken by surprise and this accounted in a great degree for the haul of over a thousand prisoners and many guns, some of six inch. But striking as the tactics were, the accomplishment of the plans was 1918 DAILY MAIL COMMENT 93 equally fine. Under cover of the darkness the engineers in the hour prior to the attack brought up all the material necessary for fording the marsh- land and the stream and laid down a series of duck boards and avenues of laced twigs, by which the infantry could at least obtain a firm foot- hold through the morass. Then, for the crossing of the stream, which was five yards wide and four feet deep, they constructed a series of small bridges guided by lines of rope. It was under a thick fog that the men started out. They had to pass through one hundred yards of barbed wire, and then cross the marshland. Following the trail of ropes and duck boards they reached the brook six thousand strong. Many crossed over the bridges, but the majority waded through the water, and in face of the fire from the enemy machine gun nests and artillery, followed close behind their own barrage up to the wooded height that held the Bois-de- Porges. At the same time a heavy machine gun barrage by the Americans was maintained on the village of Forges itself, which materially aided in the deception of the Germans, who still thinking that the American attack would come there, had not sent their forces around to protect their flank. The Americans pushed rapidly on, leaving special detachments behind to clear up machine gun nests, and surprising the Germans at every step. So completely were the Germans swept by the advance that many guns were captured in the Bois-de-Forges with their breech blocks intact, and were used against the enemy, while three German officers and seventy men were captured in one dug-out before they had time to realize that the Americans had advanced. All the local defenses, and all the r.o.x ( THi-:\( DXIAIXIXO THREE MACHINE (iUNS IN BILLEMONT HES CAPTURED BY 131ST INF. SEPT. 26 94 REGIMENTAL HEADQUARTERS MOVE FORWARD 1918 iFSiSf^^-^ "^I'T ' - ^ :. 'm-^^f:^ ^V i«^*.ji ' lERM.W SMl'KHS' TOST IX I'.ILLK.M( »\T TKK.NCI 1 i;s. ( AI'll ItKK I'.Y IHIST INF. barbed wire that the Germans had placed in the woods could not stop the dashing Americans, and they swept the place clear, capturing guns, ma- chine guns, material, and prisoners as they went. Then they swung up the western bank of the Meuse and took Drillancourt and Gercourt in their stride, while Dannevoux was captured later. The Germans, realizing their mistake hurriedly rushed up reserves on a railroad, disembarking them at Brieulies on the Meuse. They were seen, however, by the Amer- ican observers, and soon the artillery was pouring its shells into the mass of trucks and men that jumped out of them. Such is the brief of one of the cleanest and most skillful of operations, in which difficulties were overcome with a tenacity and energy typically American and in which the men fought with a spirit that astonished their foes. The Chicago boys maintained an already fine reputation, and gained even further distinc- tion at an important point of the line." As soon as signal wires had been run forward and first reports re- ceived of the success of the engagement the commanding officer of the regiment, with one signal man and a couple of non-commissioned officers from regimental headquarters, went forward, crossing Forges Creek, following the line of advance to the ridge north of Forges Wood on the outskirts of Drillancourt, and took possession of a German artil- lery post consisting of a cement hut built in the side of a hill for a regimental P. C. Later in the day the office force, signals, etc., came and the P. C. was in operation, with connection by wire with brigade head- quarters in the rear south of Chattancourt. In passing over the ground covering about seven kilometers, all the evidences of a fierce battle were plainly seen. At the forming up place along the road after crossing the creek our 1918 CONDITIONS ON THE BATTLEFIELD 95 own barrage and enemy shells had plowed the ground up in every direc- tion. Not much damage had been done on the wide bands of barbed wire but paths had been cut through in every direction for the passage of troops. In many cases it was evident the men had not waited for these preliminaries but had forced their way over the wires, beating it down as they went along. The trenches were filled with German guns, helmets, great piles of ammunition, clothing and rubbish of every description, indicating hasty flight with but one thought, that of personal safety. Near the dugouts and on roads leading from several points were many German dead. Shell holes along the ridges showed occupancy by ma- chine guns up to the last moment, with piles of expended shells at the bottom. In some holes the machine guns still remained. Bunches of German prisoners under escort of a few men, carrying their own and our wounded, were constantly picking their way through the debris going to the rear. On the narrow gauge railway near Forges Wood were cars loaded with shells and other war material which apparently could not be hauled out due to our artillery fire and rapid advance. From the hill north of Forges Wood toward the Meuse River our men were going into position. To the north heavy firing continued showing increased resistance and slower progress. Along the left of our advance in the woods toward Dannevoux machine guns were still popping and shells were falling on BILLEMONT TRENCHES AXD BOIS DE FORGES 96 WOEK OF THE MEDICAL COEPS 918 GERMAN OliSERVATIOX I'OST IN CERVAUX IK i;.\( 1 1 i:s. ( A I'llKKH T.V K'.IST INF. points of approach. The village of Gereourt was a smoking ruin, with Drillancourt a close second. Our advance did not contemplate the clear- ing up of the Jure Wood, but it became necessary before the flank could advance to capture or destroy the machine gun nests along the edge, wliich was done ; thirty-two machine guns were captured. Some concern was felt over the wide opening on our left flank, which might have been ex- tremely dangerous if the Germans had been less disorganized. It was not until late in the afternoon that the troops who were to attack along that flank appeared in column of platoons on the Bethancourt-Gercourt Road, deployed and started into the Bois de Jure. They were met by machine gun fire and recoiled with considerable losses. Later they fought their way through, but it was not until some time the next day that the situa- tion was cleared up, including the town of Dannevoux, and our position became more secure. MEDICAL CORPS The medical detachment of the regiment is entitled to special men- tion for service rendered during this operation. The officers and men pushed forward with the fighting lines and established a series of aid posts as fast as the troops advanced. At Drillancourt, at which place a doctor and his aides arrived be- fore the last enemy had been cleared out, they established an aid station in a station just vacated by the enemy. Here they took over all 1918 WOEK OF THE TKAXyP(HiTS 97 enemy food, stores and medical supplies which were of greiit ([uantities, including' five large oxygen tanks and several small ones. They imme- diately began serving hot coffee and food to our own wounded and used the enemy's medical supplies throughout the operations from the 26th of September to the loth of October. On the aftei-noon of September 26th, after having made requests for ambulances and liaving no assurances that any would reach this for- ward post, Lieutenant Schwald volunteered and did take all seriously wounded on stretchers carried by prisoners back over very bad and tor- tuous jiatlis aci'oss Forges Creek and Dead Man's Hill to the dressing station at Cumieres. In this way sixteen patients were evacuated. On tlie morning of September 27th at 3 :00 a. m. one ambulance had made its way to the forward post after being fourteen hours on the road tilling u]) bad sliell holes and going around others and did excellent work in lielping to evacuate the most seriously wounded. TRANSPORTS Special mention must be made of the transport of the third battalion of this regiment under the command of First Lieutenant Howard H. "Williams, wliich had worked its way over vei'y badly shelled roads and delivered rations on the night of September 27th, his being the only trans- port to come forward at this early date. The entire regimental transports thereafter never missed a trip. (^KS. ("Al'TlKED OX MENTAL IIDQRS THE 2(iTlI rXTIL ()(" )F SEl-r, AM KtTIl. litis 98 SIGNALS— PLAN OF ATTACK 1918 (;i:k.man iidqrs. ox hill 281. ('aptikei) r.v auD I'.attaliox SIGNALS Very efficient work was clone by the signal corps of this regiment and by the lOSth Field Signal men attached, being continuously on duty throughout the engagement without sleep, also the mounted orderlies of the headquarters company maintained communication with brigade and division headquarters over the old battlefield of Forges and Dead Man's Hill until roads had been repaired. PLAN OF ATTACK The plan of attack on Forges Wood and tlie ground lying to the east of Bethancourt north to Dannevoux extending to the Meuse River was carefully worked out and brilliantly executed. The small losses, rapid advance and large captures of men and material are indisputable proofs of the forethought, preparation and execution of a task generally conceded to be extremely difficult. Forges Wood was a veritable strong- hold crossed in every direction with wide bands of barbed wire, sur- rounded on all sides except to the north with deep trenches and machine gun nests. To the west in front of Mort-Homme hill extended the marshy low land of Forges Creek. The Germans believed that an attack on the woods from the south would result in failure, they regarded the crossing of the brook and marsh to the west as impracticable in the face of con- stant observation. The result was when American troops made the cross- ing under smoke and fog, pushed rapidly forward swinging around to the right and appeared in force on the undefended north edge of the woods, threatening to cut them off entirely, they were stricken with panic. The majority not killed promptly surrendered. The cleaning up of this sec- tion secured the right rear for the subsequent operations which shortly 1918 CAPTURES 99 GERCOURT-DRILLANCOURT-BOIS DE JURE followed in the Argonne Forest. This engagement was the most success- ful and productive of the greatest immediate results of any in which the Sixty-sixth Brigade participated. Inasmuch as published reports are in error as to who conceived and caused to be executed the plan of attack, the true facts are here recorded. The suggestion originally came from a French major, was submitted for consideration to the brigade commander who was told that he could use the plan or not as he might decide. That he should formulate his plans for the attack, which should be embodied in the order. He decided to adopt the plan as outlined and whatever credit is due belongs to Brigadier-General Paul A. Wolf. If the plan had failed, responsibility would have rested with him. The following is a list of captures : Three anti-tank guns. One Red Cross ambulance. Three 6-inch howitzers. Two 105 millimeter guns. Eight 77 millimeter guns. Fifteen light machine guns. Eleven heavy machine guns. Twenty-six machine guns (turned over to the 318th Infantry). ' There was also captured one iiarrow gauge railroad with three supply tracks with fourteen cars. ]()() AEROPLAX K ACTIVITIES 1918 Ki:(;iMi:.\TAL oi-.skkva' Fourteen 4-wheel flat trucks. Five g-ravel trucks. Five box ears, small. Three box cars, lar^e. The reoimeut also captui'cd a lar^c supi)ly dcjxjt which contained among' other articles, 400 shovels, 900 picks, 8,000 stands barbed wire, 10.000 pieces of cut lumber, 14,000 spikes, 800 3-inch shells, 7,990 gren- ades. 130,500 ]-ounds of rifle ammunition, 750 Werf grenades, 4,150 signal cartridges and tlares, besides enormo\is amounts of supplies, in- cluding railroad ties, rolls of tarr-ed pai>ei-, wire and wire screens and duck boards. Prisoners (holding receipt) three officers and 205 other ranks. There were many more ])ris()ners who were turned over to other organizations to be used as sti-ctcher bearers, carrying parties, etc., and many were sent back for whom details failed to take receipts. Estimated prisoners captured 650. Total prisoners received at the division cage : 36 officers, 1,400 other ranks; September 27th, 104 other ranks. For several days after oin- ()ccu])ation th(> l)attle in the Argonne Forest north of us continued with fury. Big guns were brought up and placed in all the valleys and on the rear slopes supporting the attack to the north and harassing the German batteries across the Meuse River. From the regimental P. C. aeroplane battles frequently were seen, and 918 LINES EXTKNDKD 101 (JEKMAX AID STATION AT DRI LLA .\( (trUT. CAI'TrUKl) I!V 181ST INF. when our observation balloons moved forward the enemy made daily efforts to destroy them, succeeding in several instances. One enemy plane was brought down October 3rd, and one of our planes (French) fell in the outskirts of Drillancourt, killing the occupant. Day and night our for- ward positions were shelled and at intervals both the regimental aid station at Drillancourt and the regimental P. ('., outside the village was shelled, but fortunately never hit. Aeroplanes were continually flying around until finally no one paid much attention to them. One afternoon an enemy plane flew low over the regimental P. C. and when two or three hundred yards away turned loose with a machine gun on a group of officers and men standing out in front watching the shells bursting along the roads and edges of the woods to the north. No one was hit but there was some undignified tumbling to cover and less inclination thereafter to satisfy the promptings of curiosity. In fact the tendency of soldiers to stand around and expose to observation occupied positions had to be suppressed. Guards were placed to keep everybody moving and prevent congregating in bunches. Captured German machine guns were placed in position to fire on enemy planes, also some anti-aircraft guns were located under the general line of flight, but the attack was not repeated. October 3rd. The positions held by the 132nd Infantry from the right of our line to Forges Creek were taken over by the third battalion of the 131st Infantry, and the entire front organized in strong points pro- tected by patrols forward to the river bank. Patrols were also sent across the river at night at intervals for the purpose of taking prisoners and locating enemy positions. Not much was accomplished, however, as no organized line was found on the slopes facing west toward the Meuse. Occasionally enemy batteries would push out over the ridge and fire on 102 SUPPORTING A NEW ATTACK 1918 j^flttod^^ !^;u^l jy 1 Jij ~<- ^v#*^ '"^ CIU'RCII AT (iEKCOrUT our position, but our own artillery quickly drove them back. One enemy patrol was surprised at night near Consenvoye some killed, some escaped and a couple were taken prisoner. October 8th. The machine gun companies attached to the 131st In- MACIIINE (iUN XEST, GERCOIKT, ('APTIRED BY SGT. .JAKE ALLEX 1918 MACHINE GUNS UNDER SHELL FIRE 103 RUINS OF GBRCOURT, TOWN CAPTURED BY 131ST INF. fantry comprising companies B and C, 124th Machine Gun Battalion, and 129th Machine Gun Company, were placed in position along the west bank of the Meuse Kiver for the purpose of supporting an attack to be made on the east side by the 132nd Infantry in connection with French troops and the 29th American Division. These machine gun companies were under shell fire during the 8th and 9th, and could not get out with the exception of Company B, 124th Machine Gun Battalion, which was the only company able to rejoin the regiment in time to cross to the east side of the Meuse River on the night of October 9th. OUTPOST OF ("O. L OVERLOOKING SPRING AT DRILLANCOURT SIVRY SUR MEUSE 104 LEGION OF HONOR PRESENTATIONS 919 KIOADIXG CITATIONS— LKGION OF HONOR PRESENTATIONS AT P.RES CHAPTER VII THE ARGONNE-MEUSE OFFENSIVE BOIS DE CHAUME, AND BOIS DU PLAT CHENE OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS TO NOVEMBER 4, 1918 MAP REFERENf'E: VP^RDUN B 1:20,000. BRANDEVILLE 1:20,000. Following the engagement north of Mort Homme on the 26th of Sep- tember, 1918, the 131st Infantry held a forward line on the west bank of the Meuse River from the evening of that date to the 8th of October, 1918. That line consisting of outposts on the edge of the river, supports in immediate rear and one battalion in reserve west of Forges Woods ex- tended from a point east of Dannevoux south to the Consenvoye Cross- ing, a distance of nearly three kilometers. On the 3rd and 4th of October the 132nd Infantry, which occupied the extension of the lines to the south, was withdrawn and our line prolonged on the east of the Forges Woods nearly five additional kilometers, connecting with French troops south of the town of Forges. This additional line was lightly held by outposts. The entire line was within the lines of the comprehensive defensive scheme abandoned as subsequent events developed. During the occupation of this line covering a period approximating fourteen days troops were subject to intermittent shell fire, gas attacks at night and rainy weather, resulting in some casualties and sickness nearly every day ; consequently troops were not in the best condition to take part in the offensive movement which followed on the east side of the river. The night of October 7th the second battalion and the 131st Machine Gun Company, Major Hamlet C. Ridgway commanding, was detailed to the 132nd Infantry and were used as supporting battalion of the force which attacked under orders of Colonel Davis at 11 :00 a. m. October 8th. The afternoon of October 7th notice was received that the 108th Engineers were to build bridges across the Meuse river that night, both north and south of Consenvoye bridge. One bridge was completed only, location about 800 meters south, and the old Consenvoye wagon bridge was repaired. Over these two bridges all the infantry of the 33rd Division crossed except two battalions that participated in the attacks of the divi- sion in the subsequent operations north of Consenvoye. Much credit is 105 106 FORMATION FOR ATTACK 1918 due to the 108tli Engineers who eonstrneted and repaired these bridges in the face of heavy shell fire and difficulty of operation. The afternoon of October 8th orders were received to assemble the two remaining battalions of the regiment as reserve in case the troops under command of Colonel Davis needed support. The first battalion was assembled along the east edge, the third battalion along the north edge of Forges Wood under cover, and remained in positions until the night of October 9th-10th. In the meantime Colonel Davis's command was obliged to withdraw to trenches south of Bois de Chaume by reason of lack of support, the troops on his right flank being unable to advance. His troops met with stubborn resistance, harassing fire from artillery and gas and were not in condition to go forward ag,ain. The necessity of their withdrawal was apparent. After a long conference between the brigade commander, commanding officer, 131st Infantry, and Colonel Davis, 132nd Infantry, the situation was gone over thoroughly and it was decided that the 131st Infantry should retake the abandoned objective, trusting that under the impetus of the attack troops on the right would also move forward. At 11 :45 p. m. October 9th orders were issued to the commanding officer, 131st Infantry, to attack through the lines at 6:05 a. m. 10th October, 1918, with the following units : First and third battalions, 131st Infantry, in line. Third battalion, 129th Infantry, in support. Company B, 124th IMachine Gun Battalion. Companies A and B, 122nd Machine Gun Battalion. Brigade reserve : Third battalion, 130th Infantry, less one company ; first battalion, 129th Infantry; second battalion, 132nd Infantry (to remain in position in cable trenches until further orders) ; second bat- talion, 131st Infantry. October 9th. Anticipating orders, the attacking battalions w^ere or- dered to cross the Meuse River and assemble in readiness in trenches immediately south of Consenvoye, which was accomplished shortly after dark, wath the exception of a battalion of the 129th Infantry, which arrived later in the night. Troops were in position ready to pass through the lines of the 132nd Infantry, who were lying south of the Bois de Chaume at 4 :00 a. m. October 10th, 1918. An attack was ordered to com- mence at 6 :05 a. m. and was made at that hour from the cable line trenches held by the 132nd Infantry (less one battalion) and attached troops. The hour for march from trenches was set for 1 :00 a. m. October 10, consequently when the commanding officer, 131st Infantry arrived after receiving orders, having proceeded on foot in the dark across the Meuse River foot bridge accompanied by the operations officer, it was too late to issue other than verbal instructions, which were hurriedly 1918 PLAN OF ATTACK 107 ROAD TO BRIDGE OVER MEUSE RIVER AMERICAN AEROPLANE SHOT DOWN NEAR CONSENVOYE NEAR DRILLANCOURT promulgated. Only three maps were available, two of which were passed out to the commanding officers of the attacking battalions and the troops started on their way within a very few moments, forming up in ample time for the attack as the barrage fell. Octoher 10th. The mission of the brigade was to clear the Bois de Chaume and Bois du Plat Chene and exploit to the second exploitation objective of the corps. This objective was a line running east from the south edge of the town of Sivry-sur-Meuse east about one kilometer to ris- ing ground, thence along the Refeille Road extending along the north edge of the ridge to Villeneuve Farm, thence east to north and south Grid line 24. Supporting troops on the right, 29th Division, 18th Division (French), second battalion, 104th Field Artillery, first battalion, 105th Field Artillery, first battalion, 106th Field Artillery (heavy). Infantry on the immediate right was the 115th Regiment (American). The plan of the attack was that the first battalion, 131st Infantry, on the right, and third battalion, 131st Infantry, on the left, should move straight north through the woods with flanking patrols, the third battalion covering the open ground west to the Meuse River. One 37 millimeter and two trench mortars were assigned to each battalion. The third battalion, 129th Infantry and third battalion, 130th Infantry, would follow through the woods at 500 yards distant as support, having been assigned to that duty by verbal orders of the brigade commander to com- manding officer 131st Infantry. The third battalion on the left, Com- panies I and M in the assaulting line, Companies K, less one platoon, and Company L in support. One platoon of Company K was directed to mop up the west edge of Bois de Chaume, and send patrols as far as the Meuse River. The advance started on the prescribed hour, but because of 108 ox THE OBJECTIVE 1918 the thick woods and underbrush was extremely difficult, many machine gun nests being encountered and disposed of. When the valley which extends into the wood was reached, seven enemy planes flying very low sprayf^d the line with machine gun fire, and three planes dropped bombs causing four casualties. As soon as troops emerged from the north end of Bois de Chaume into the valley Dans les Vaux enemy artillery and machine guns put down a counter-barrage on the north edge of the woods, the valley and the hill beyond. Troops, however, passed through this barrage, reached the objective^ and dug in on the reverse slope of the hill, throwing out a line of outposts consisting of automatic rifle s(iuads beyond the crest for observation and guard against counter-attacks. During the advance a section of the trench mortar platoon did good service in k^ocking out an unknown number of machine guns located in a thicket on the left of the third battalion, also in dispersing a working party oj)erating on the opposite side of tlie lull crest. The first battalion met with considerable resistance and became more or less disorganized. They were unable to get contact-liaison with troops on the right. ( Vtmpanies A and D, forming the assaulting echelon, reached the objective as plainied, but Companies B and C were held up by machine gun fire whicli appeared on their right and were unable to proceed until assistance was rendered by two companies of the Third battalion of tlie 12f)tli Infantry. The remaining two com- panies of the 129th Infantry passed through them and continued the advance. The Third battalion, 129th Infantry, in support, was ordered to maintain liaison with the 115th Infantry, follf)wing in the rear of the First battalion ; the 1st Bn. 131st Infantry reached its objective with two companies. One comjiany remained in liaison with the 115th Infanti-y and made no advance. About one hour after reaching positions on the objective the third company of the Third battalion, 129th Infantry, came up. The bat- talion connnander, Captain Burgheim, and battalion headquarters, did not arrive until 4 j). ni. The Third battalion. 1.31st Infantry, meeting with less resistance, reached their objective at 10 :50 a. m. Enemy machine guns during the night of October 9th-10th had worked around to the rear of the positions held by the 132nd Infantry, and the Third battalion, 129th Infantry, in forming up. received their fire from the direction of Consenvoye Wood. At the end of the day the Third battalion, 129th Infantry, was on the extreme right, at Magenta Farm, a portion of the First battalion on the left, and the remainder forward on the objective ; Third battalion on the left also on the objective. The Third battalion. 130th Infantry, Major Edward Bittel commanding, who was ordered to follow at about 500 yards 1918 UNDER HEAVY FIRE 109 behind tlie 129th Infantry with special instructions to support the right, went forward through the enemy's barrage, which caught them as they entered the valley south of the Bois du Plat Chene. Apparently enemy machine guiis were continually filtering in on the right where the 115th Infantry was supposed to be, as this battalion reported a machine gun nest which completely swept the territory over which their advance was made. Company M went forwaril to its first objective, but Companies I and K were disorganized. The battalion commander rallied such portions as he coidd find, and sent them forward by detachments, placing them under the command of the commanding officer of Company M. The scattered remains of Com- panies I and K were collected together the next morning, October 11th, reformed, brought under control and moved into supporting position. Major Bittel, the battalion commander, went forward, reorganized his position and displayed rare judgment in making his dispositions. The failure of troops on the right to advance subjected this battalion and all other troops in the advance to terrific artillery fire, consisting of high explosive, shrapnel and gas, as well as flanking machine gini fire, result- ing in many casualties. During the afternoon of the lOth it became evident that no support would be forthcoming from troops on the right. At 2 p. m., while on the objective, a counter attack was repulsed. Many messages came in recit- ing the fact that troops were under heavy machine gun fire, shell fire and gas. Nine enemy planes sprayed the lines with machine gun fire for five minutes without opposition. Later, the raid was repeated. Enemy KAir,U(>AI> STATn'N Al' ( KOSSIXC; THE MKISK lUVKK 110 FAILUEE OF SUPPORT 1918 troops started working around the right flank in small squads. One recently assigned major who had never been in action before was in- clined to be panicky, and more or less disorganization existed in some of the three regimental detachments and machine gun companies scattered as they were through the woods. After consultation with the brigade commander it was decided to hold the line, and to dig in a defensive position in the valley Dans les Vaux, through the woods east to Grid line 24 to be held at all costs. All troops, except those holding the line and brigade reserve, were to be employed in the work. Lieutenant Colonel Stansfield, 132nd Infantry, who was with the reserve, was given instructions to order the work. It was impossible to complete parts of this line during daylight. Work was continued at intervals when opportunity permitted. Not much progress was made in the way of connecting up the entire line, but individual units dug in the best they could. Major Bittel did especially good work in preparing his position, cutting out the underbrush, wiring approaches, etc. October 11th. The morning of October 11th message was received from the commanding officer, 115th Infantry, that their second battalion was about to effect a passage of the lines with orders to gain the second exploitation objective. The movement apparently failed, as the left of that organization was located the following morning, October 12th, at 1 :50 a. m., two and one-half kilometers in rear on Grid line 81. It became evident in the early morning that a reorganization and readjustment of the line was necessary. The commanding officer, 131st Infantry, was notified by the brigade commander that he would be in command of operations between north and south Grid 24 and River Meuse, with three battalions and machine gun company, 131st Infantry, and the following attached troops : Third battalion, 130th Infantry ; Third battalion, 129th Infantry, and attached machine gun units. Major Allen, Third battalion, was designated by the commanding officer, 131st Infantry, as his representative with orders to place Captain Melville in charge of all machine gun units, to check positions and make read- justments where necessary. Troops as were then forward of line dug the night before to be held by outposts, other line designated at the same time to be held and the position organized in depth. Liaison to be main- tained on right. Anticipating some act on the part of the right flank troops, as evidenced by their message at 8 a. m., October 11th, in which it was stated: "Our Second battalion (115th Infantry) is about to effect a passage of lines to begin the attack. Orders to gain the second exploitation objective," our forward troops again occupied that portion of the line on our immediate front. Consummation of the intended sup- porting move M^as not accomplished. At 11 :25, October 11th, the liaison 918 DECISION TO FORM A NEW LINE 111 VIEW OF THE MEl'SE RIVER FROM CONSEXVOYE BRIIXJE LOOKING SOUTH officer of the 115th Infantry was asked to ascertain where the left of organization was, and what progress was being made, there being no apparent movement. Heavy machine gun tire increasing in volume continued on our right. The First battalion commander reported situa- tion serious. No report was received to inquiry as to position of the 115th Infantry until 7:30 a. m., October 12th, at which time the commanding officer reported: "Was unable to advance, owing to regiment on right being held up." At 1 :50 a. m., October 12th our patrols reported the left of the 115th Infantry at Grid 81, two and one-half kilometers in rear of our forward posts. During the night, October llth-12th, a conference was held with the brigade commander, at which time a decision was reached to consolidate and dig in a line in the general direction east and west on Grid 82 toward the north edge of Bois de Chaume, but conditions during that night made the movement impossible. It was, therefore, deferred until the fol- lowing night. October J 2th. At 3 p. m. troops lay on the ridge forward of Grid line 82, Third battalion, 131st Infantry, left ; First battalion, 131st In- fantry, center; First and Third battalions, 129th Infantry, right, with flank protection. The First battalion, 131st Infantry, were ordered to patrol the area north of Grid line 82 to act as covering party to the work- ing party digging trenches, and to withdraw when ordered. The First and Third battalions, 129th Infantry, were to fall back through the line as soon as work started, and go into reserve position northeast of Con- senvoye. Major Allen, 131st Infantry, was placed in immediate com- 112 NOTICE OF KELIEF 1918 mand of forward troops with orders to furnish covering parties and pa- trol to protect all working parties. Also to cover the outpost zone on the north and the river bottom with patrols. The second battalion, 129th Infantry, was detailed to report with picks and shovels at 6 p. m., but did not report until 11 :30 p. m., and then without heavy picks or shovels. The engineers who were to deliver these tools did not get them up until 11 :30 a. m. October 13th. However, working parties from the Third battalion, 131st Infantry, had begun to dig their portion of the line eve- ning of the 12th, also holding the line around Bois de Chaume. Compa- nies used their intrenching tools and some German tools for digging. October 13th, contemplated moves were as follows : Third ])attalion, protected by strong outpost, to fall back to the line of resistance along Grid line 82, First and Third battalions, 129th Infantry, to fall back from resistance line to reserve position north of Consenvoye at 12 o'clock midnight ; First battalion, 131st Infantry, which remained in front of Grid line 82, as covering party to workers digging trenches, to fall back through resistance line to support position on the left of the Second bat- talion, 131st Infantry, south of Bois de Chaume at the same hour. In the afternoon of the 13th, Addendum No. 1 to Field Order No. 29, Thirty- third Division, was received, which stated the intention of the division commander to begin the operation of placing the Sixty-fifth Infantry brigade on the west bank. Evening of October 13th no troops remained north of the entrenched line on Grid line 82, east and west. This line was held as follows : Third battalion, 131st Infantry, left on the Meuse River ; Third battalion, 130th Infantry, center ; Second battalion, 129th Infantry, right, connecting with left of the 115th Infantry which had progressed to point 24.0-91.8. At 4 :30 p. m., in compliance with brigade orders, telephone orders were sent to Major Allen to remove First and Third battalions of the 131st Infantry out of the line and report same to Consenvoye. At the same time orders were sent to the commanding officers of the Third bat- talion, 130th Infantry, and Second battalion, 129th Infantry, to extend and occupy the entire line. At 10 :45 p. m., October 13th, the Third battalion, 130th Infantry, took over the sector held by the Third battalion, 131st Infantry ; the Sec- ond battalion, 129th Infantry, extending their line to connect with the 115th Infantry on the right. The First and Third battalions, 131st In- fantry, were withdrawn to trenches south of Consenvoye. The Second battalion, 131st Infantry, remained in support in trenches south of Bois de Chaume. Positions of battalions were then as follows : Third battalion, 130th Infantry, on left, along Grid 82— from 210-817 to 228-820. 1918 EECROSSING THE MEUSE 113 Second battalion, 129th Infantry, on right, from 228-820 to 240-820, following road leading southeast to junction with narrow gauge railway, tiien along narrow gauge railway to Grid 24, where connection was made with 115th Infantry. Support — In trenches south of Bois de Chaume, Second battalion, 131st Infantry. Reserve — In trenches north of CVjnsenvoye, First battalion, 129th In- fantry ; Second battalion, 129th Infantry ; Second battalion, 132nd Infan- try. In trenches south of Consenvoye, First battalion, 131st Infantry; Third battalion, 131st Infantry. At 3 p. m., October 14th, an order was issued to the commanding officer of Second battalion, 131st Infantry, to proceed and locate himself in Forges Woods as soon as relieved by a battalion of the 129th Infantry, which was on the way for that purpose. This relief was accomplished at 7 p. m., October 14th, delay being caused by heavy shelling on position south of Bois de Chaume. There was also considerable delay in the cross- ing of the Meuse River at Consenvoye by relieving troops. The crossing was not effected until late in the morning of October 15th. Conditions were then favorable for crossing movement and such was continued with- out interruption. The last unit of the 131st Infantry crossed the river, going west at 11 :30 a. m., October 15th, and the commanding officer, 131st Infantry, turned over command of the sector with dispositions comi)lete at 12 o'clock noon. Pursuant to Field Order No. 20, Sixty-sixth Infantry brigade, Octo- GERMAN DUGOUT SOUTH OF CONSENVOYE USED AS IIDQRS. OF THE VSli INFANTRY ATTACK OF OCT. lOTH to 15TH 114 WOKK OF MACHINE GUNS 1918 ber 14th, the regiment went into position in trenches west of Forges Woods, where needed new clothing and supplies were issued and the men made as comfortable as circumstances could permit. It was unfortunate that the troops on the right in this attack were unable to make progress as their advance would have insured the taking of strong positions on the Haramount Ridge. Our troops were three times on the final objective, overlooking the ridge, and were obliged to fall back for lack of support to prevent being cut to pieces. The morning of Octo- ber 10th enemy forces appeared to be in confusion, and hastily fled before our advance. When the advance was not followed up machine gun detach- ments worked back through the woods on our open flank in continually in- creasing numbers and became very bold. It was not deemed advisable to shell and gas the woods to the right, except as a last resort, for fear of interfering with troops which were attempting to come forward and also danger of involving other troops occupying lines at an angle. Octo- ber 11th it was reported that Sivry-sur-Meuse was full of machine guns, and the enemy concentrating there. Prior to this date all efforts to have our artillery direct their fire on this town were unavailing until above reports were repeated. Heavy fire concentrated on the town finally cleared it of enemy troops. Machine Gnus. — During the attack of October 8th, and until the evening of the 9th, the companies of the 124th machine gun battalion, and the machine gun company of the 129th Infantry were located along the western edge of the Meuse River on the right, overlooking the flats in their immediate front and the rising ground east of the river. Their function was to support the attack by delivering harassing fire upon the enemy's positions. When ordered to withdraw and rejoin bat- talions to whom they were assigned, they came out after dark and got mixed up, and one company of the 124th machine gun battalion did not get into action at all. The reports of the action of the machine gun com- panies during the operations following the morning of October 10th, show that they rendered valuable aid. Company B, 124th machine gun battalion, attached to the Third bat- talion, 131st Infantry, led by Lieutenant Bourdon, was highly praised by the major commanding his battalion. This company played an im- portant part in the holding of the line. They were continually shelled by high explosive and gas shells and under constant fire from enemy ma- chine guns and snipers. Company A, 122nd machine gun battalion (less one-half platoon), Captain Herbert E. Algeo commanding, arrived in trenches southeast of Consenvoye, about 5 a. m. the 10th, reported to the commanding officer of the First Battalion, 131st Infantry, about 12 o 'clock noon the same day, and was assigned to duty, supporting the right flank. Captain Algeo, in his report, states : 1918 WOEK OF MACHINE GUNS 115 CEKMAN DUCJOl'TS XOKTII OF BOIS PLAT CIIENE "We started out about 11:30 a. m., entering the southern edge of the Bois de Chaume (at 225.813, Map Verdun B.), and proceeded almost due north, until we entered a draw. We had been under shell fire all morning, but in this draw it was much heavier and more concentrated. We lost four men wounded here, and leaving the draw we turned to the right and halted to rest in some shallow trenches (Map Verdun B, 236.822) . Here we found that the infantry had disappeared, leaving only the battalion commander with us. He and I made a reconnaissance and succeeded in locating Major Hemenway, commander of the Third bat- talion, 129th Infantry, at the northern edge of the woods in the valley (Map Brandeville, 238.829). He told us that two companies of the First battalion, 129th Infantry, were on the hill in front of us with his bat- talion (at from 243.835 to 246.834). ' ' I returned to my command and brought them out on the road, which runs into the Ravine de la Vaux de Mille Mais (233.826, Map Verdun B, juncture of road and ravine). Arriving on the road, we met a runner from the 131st Infantry, who told me that Captain Carroll Gale was in command of the 131st Infantry forces on the hill, and showed me where I could find his command. We marched across the valley without any casualties, although the enemy was sending over quite a bit of gas and a machine gun was operating quite persistently from a position up the 116 WORK OF MACHINE GUNS 1918 valley to our right. Arriving on the hill I met Lieut. John Marchant, 131st Infantry, who informed me that Captain Gale had just been wounded and that Captain Wilson, Company A, 131st Infantry, was in charge. Lieutenant Marchant gave me a runner to take me to Captain Wilson, and I reported to him with my company at about 5 p. m. He told me briefly the situation, and I made my dispositions, placing four guns under Lieutenant Becker (at about 242.835, Map Brandeville), and six guns, four under Lieutenant King and two under Lieuteant Hoover at from 237.834 to 239.834 (Map Brandeville). I was then informed by Captain Wilson that Major Cody was in command, and that he had his P. C. on the hill. I reported to him immediately in compliance with the orders, finding Captain Daley there also, and I established my company headquarters at 235.832 (Map Brandeville). "Under instructions from Major Southwick received the next morn- ing, I sent Lieutenant Hoover back to take care of our echelon and trans- port and turned his two guns over to Lieutenant King. On the morning of the 11th the right of our line, where Lieutenant Becker's platoon was lo- cated, was subjected to a very severe concentration of artillery fire. One of Lieutenant Becker's gunners, Private John Milkowski, receiving a direct hit which literally blew him to atoms and put his gun out of action. The other gun of this section, however, continued to function, the gunner, Private Mark A. Goetzman, refusing to leave despite the fact that the rest of his gun crew were wounded and the infantry which his gun was sup- porting were retreating. His action, undoubtedly, prevented the enemy from following up the attack, and gave the infantry a chance to reorganize and to establish a new line, which they did about 300 yards back. He con- tinued firing his gun for nearly an hour, until the line was re-established, but was forced to abandon it, as he could not bring it out by himself. It was recovered later by Sergeant William Payne, and a detail comprising Privates Lewis D. Potter and William L. Werle, who made two trips through heavy shell fire to bring back both gun and tripod and all the other equipment. Lieutenant Oswald F. Becker was knocked out by a shell this same morning and sent back, the command of his platoon falling upon Sergeant John C. Miller, who has since been awarded a commission for his behavior during this action. "On October 12th we received orders to move our line down the hill a little ways, which necessitated a change of our P. C, so Major Cody, Captain Daley and I moved back across the valley and established head- quarters at 227.823 (Map Verdun B). We were withdrawn on the night of October 13th and returned to Consenvoye." Various machine gun companies knocked out several enemy machine guns. Lieutenant King's section did excellent work when the First Bat- talion, 131st Infantry, repulsed a counter-attack by the enemy October 1918 WORK OF MACHINE GUNS 117 ] Itli. Lieutenant Miller, with his section, held his position in front of the sector occupied by the battalions of the 129th Infantry after units of these battalions had retired. He stayed in position until support was sent him by the First Battalion, 131st Infantry. The machine gun company of 131st Infantry' attached to the Second Battalion, 131st Infantry, was in position on the regiment's flank facing the enemy in Consenvoye wood after the engagement of October 9th. Capt. James D. Melville, command- ing machine gun company of the 131st Infantry, attached to the second ])attalion of that regiment at the time the battalion was employed in con- nection with the 132nd Infantry attack, October 8th, reports his action on that date as follows : "On the 8th of October I had eleven guns available and assigned four guns under Lieutenant Lyon to follow the front line (Support Battalion), and seven guns to follow the supporting companies during the advance. The platoon of forM^ard guns did no firing but took u^p their positions to defend the lines against counter-attack. This platoon lost one gun and crew by shell fire, but being in suj^port position had no opportunity to fire. "When I found the right flank of this attack entirely open I took charge of the remaining seven guns and two or three odd guns belonging to other organizations, and distributed them in depth along the exposed flank. I then had two guns well forward on the support line, three guns on tlie right of and 100 to 200 yards in rear of the right company, and four guns 600 yards in rear of the three guns. All tlirough these nine GERMAN MACrilNE OUX POSITION IN HOUSE AT SIVRY SUR MEUSE 118 WORK OF MACHINE GUNS 1918 guns had a good field of fire along the flank of our position and into the Bois Consenvoye, but were instructed not to fire except in case of counter- attack. Firing would have brought artillery fire upon them without com- pensating results. They were too exposed to remain, if located by enemy artillery. "The guns not belonging to me were picked up by the companies to whom they belonged and I withdrew my four forward guns to the extreme left of the support position, which left me four guns on the left and three guns on the right, forward, and four guns on the right, rear. This disposition was maintained until relieved. "When orders for relief were received, I had the guns carried to Consenvoye, where I had the limbers pick up the loads. ' ' During this action we found a number of Lewis guns, which I imme- diately had put in good condition and distributed to the right flank com- panies with sufficient ammunition to make them usable. There were four to Company G, 131st Infantry, and three to Company H, 131st Infantry, with fourteen magazine pans to each gun." Company B, 122nd Machine Gun Battalion, Capt. J. S. T. C. Daly commanding, attached to second battalion, 131st Infantry, operating with the command of Col. Davis, the 8th and 9th were relieved from that duty and assigned to the first battalion of the 131st Infantry at 12 :30 a. m., October 10. With the latter organization this company operated as set forth in Capt. Daly 's report, as follows : ' ' The attack was launched at 6 :05 a. m. As the Infantry Battalion attacked in two waves, I had assigned the first and third platoons to cover the advance of the right and left companies of the first wave and the sec- ond platoon to cover the right flank of the company on the right of the second wave. We attacked due north from the take off, through Bois de Chaume and Plat-Chene, across the valley north of these woods and up the hill beyond that. The progress through the woods was exceedingly difficult on account of the thick underbrush and the many enemy machine guns concealed in emplacements and in trees. After clearing the woods we emerged into the valley beyond and were there subjected to intense machine gun and point blank artillery fire from the front and right flank. For a short time the outcome was a trifle uncertain, but no power on earth could stop these infantry and machine gun men from advancing up the hill. They went. When they were within two or three hundred yards of the enemy rear-guard positions, from which they had been put- ting up a most stubborn resistance, the enemy saw that they could not hold the positions and they took to their heels over the top of the hill to prearranged positions beyond. As they appeared on the sky-line, two ma- chine guns, under the command of Lt. Lester Miller, were put into action against them and the apparent casualties were hea^y. 1918 WOEK OF MACHINE GUNS 119 MACHINE GUN POSITION IN THE ADVANCE BEYOND I'.OIS DE CHAUME "My first platoon, in advancing through Bois de Chaume, encoun- tered serious resistance and both Lt. Ligget, the platoon commander, and Sgt. Dagon were wounded, leaving the platoon under the command of Corporal King. "When the infantry had advanced as far as they dared, the right flank being uncovered, they established their line of resistance and threw out outposts. The machine guns were located where they could best cover and protect them and then the most trying phase of the operation began — the defensive. From the morning of October 10, until the night of the 13th, when we were withdrawn, there was hardly an hour passed that these men were not subjected to intense artillery and machine gun fire and gas. ' ' The casualties in my organization were as follows : ' ' Killed — Pvts,, 1st cl. Wilson Cole and Emory J. Whisler. Reported since died of wounds — Pvt. Edward P. Bealin. Wounded — Corporals Edward W. Damler and Arthur M. Ryan. Privates, 1st cl. Charles See- field, Pearl F. Crow, Martin C. Hanson, Anthony G. Freitag. Privates Walter C. Mueller, Walter A. Diesing, Walter G. Knoy, Oscar W. Vinje, George Cash, Eugene H. Stewart and Lynn Holmes. " I do not believe that any machine gun organization was ever asked to do more than my company was in this operation. Leaving out, alto- gether, their conduct under fire, the fact that they ever got there with their machine guns, tripods, spare parts, water boxes, and 4,000 rounds of §. A. A. per gun, is, in itself, a praiseworthy accomplishment. All this equipment was carried by sorely depleted squads from P. C. Alexander (2165.7394) to the jumping off trench and from there through the woods. 120 WORK OF MEDICAL CORPS 1918 across the valley, and up the hill to the final positions. The distance covered varied between thirteen and fourteen kilometers." Mention must also be made of Captain Kriegbaum, Company D, 124th Machine Gun Battalion, although attached to a battalion of the ]32nd Infantry. Most of his machine guns had been knocked out and many of his men were casualties. He volunteered and guided other ma- chine gunners to position and checked over the forward line and made report on same. By his coolness and energy Captain Kriegbaum helped maintain the lines against the enemy. Medical Corps. The officers and men of the medical corps received praise from all ranks for their bravery and their treatment of the wounded. They were on duty night and day. One officer, Lieutenant Schwald, though sick and having fainted twice, stuck to his post until the regiment was relieved. During the engagement the band, acting as stretcher bearers, was continually in the fighting zone from battalion headquarters on the south edge of Bois de Channie to Consenvoye first aid station. Subsequent developments proved the wisdom of withdrawing this regiment from the line. At this particular point the 132nd Infantry which went forward in the first attack withdrew to trench positions in rear of the Bois de Chaume and was there on the morning of the third day, when the 131st Infantry attacked through the position. The 131st Infantry went to the objective three different times, held it all the time either in position or with outposts until directed to withdraw to en- trenched position forward of jumping off line. The troops from 6:00 a. m. October 10th to the night of October 14th-15th, were subjected to shell fire, machine gun fire, gas, aeroplane attacks and fire from snipers incessantly in some parts of the line. Very few men were able to obtain any needed rest or sleep. To add to their discomfort it rained nearly every day, frequently food could not be trans- ported to parts of the line, sometimes it was spoiled by mustard gas, which in low areas of the woods compelled men to wear gas masks nearly all the time. Commencing the night of the 10th until the relief, battalion and company commanders were sending in messages portraying the situation as untenable and the condition of the men as desperate. The men them- selves hung on without complaint, without a thought of giving an inch unless ordered to do so, notwithstanding the fact that many of them had been unable to take their clothing off for thirty days. They showed con- clusively the magnificent spirit of the American troops and their fortitude under adverse conditions will always remain an example of heroic valor worthy of emulation. The failure of the troops east of the Meuse River to make a marked advance was not an unfavorable factor. The tenacity with which thev 1918 WOEK OF TEENCH MOETAES 121 held the ground pained north of Consenvoye prevented the Germans from detaching units to the aid of their badly mauled lines further north. The position thus became a pivot on which the Argonne Forest otfensive swung. That offensive had, on October lltli-12th, passed beyond the Argonne Forest. October loth a deep wedge had been driven into the Kremhilde line of the German defense, which had been ordered held to the very end. It was the beginning of the end. The following incident which occurred during the fight is typical of the initiative of detached groups. A squad of eight men of Company K, 131st Infantry, sent on patrol duty towards Sivry, penetrated to the south of the town on the Sivry-Consenvoye Road, captured and brought in a ma- chine gun detachment of twenty-four men and guns without the loss of a man. Trench Mortars. The only opportunities to use trench mortars or 37 millimeter guns was in open spaces and it was with much ditficulty that they were brought through the thick woods and underbrush. At one time when the first battalion, 131st Infantry, was held up by machine gun fire, four guns were demolished by the trench mortars. On another occasion a trench digging party was dispersed or destroyed and a large nest of machine guns was knocked out on the left of the third battalion, 131st Infantry. 37 Millimeter Guns. No service was received from any of the 37 millimeter guns. The only one which came into action was almost imme- diately struck by a shell from enemy artillery and damaged. One gun took up a defensive position covering the town of Sivry, but no oppor- tunity presented itself for action. Captures. The third battalion reported 390 prisoners captured. Re- 122 CAPTUEES 1918 ceipts issued show 230 prisoners all told. Other battalions made captures, but no complete reports made. It is evident that many prisoners were sent back for whom no receipt was given, therefore, only approximate figures are available. Estimated captures, 600. Guns and Other Material Captured and Reported. Eight 77 milli- meter guns, 24 heavy machine guns, 7 light machine guns, 19 automatic rifles, 8 anti-tank guns, 200 rifles, 1,750 rounds 77 millimeter shells, 100 rounds trench mortar ammunition, 72,000 rounds small arms ammunition, 30,000 rounds Lewis gun ammunition, 1,000 stick grenades. Large amoimt of clothing and equipment not salvaged for lack of time. October 15th. The regiment was again settled in its old position west of Forges Wood, in the trench line extending from the edge of the wood west to hill 272, on Gercourt-Bethencourt road facing north ; third bat- talion on the right, first battalion center, second battalion on the left with lines extending to hill 272. Material was collected from dumps for build- ing shelters. There was plenty of wood available and everything possible was done to make the men comfortable ; many were, however, totally ex- hausted and large numbers reported to the regimental aid station as shown by the reports of October 17th-18th. Octoher 19. Night of October 19th-20th, regimental headquarters Headquarters Company and three battalions left trenches in a heavy rain staging at Bois de Nixeville and Bois de Claude, thence Regimental Head- quarters, Headquarters Company and Supply Company, to Camp Mon- thairons, first battalion to LeChanois (West) ; second battalion, Ferme Pontoux; third battalion and machine gun company, Le Tamaris. October 23rd. The 131st Infantry changed billets with the 315tli Infantry and were assigned to the Second Colonial Army Corps (French), becoming reserve for the right sub-sector of the Troyon Sector, units stationed as follows : Regimental Headquarters, third battalion. Supply Company, Headquarters Company, machine gun company, Thillombois; first battalion, Woimbey, second battalion. Camp Gibralter. The follow- ing day two platoons of the first battalion and one section machine gun company were sent to Fort de Troyon as reinforcements to garrison at that point. One company from the same battalion was sent to Lavigne- ville to guard ammunition dumps being formed at that point. October 25th, the detail to Fort de Troyon was withdrawn. October 26. Orders were received to the effect that the 39th Division (French) would be relieved in its sector by extending the front of the 28th U. S. Division to the west and the 33rd U. S. Division to the right. The second battalion, 131st Infantry, with Companies A and B, 122nd machine gun battalion, was directed to make the relief night of October 27th-28th. They marched to Chaillon in the St. Mihiel Sector on the afternoon of October 26th. On the 28th the regimental band and Com- 1918 MOVE TO A NEW SECTOR 123 KL, BOIS DE CHAUME paiiy I, third battalion, were sent to St. Mihiel, the band to furnish music for the French Corps Headquarters, Company I, to perform g'uard duty. Relief was completed by second battalion, night of October 27th-28th, as scheduled. One company stationed at Woel, three companies at the Bois la Hayes. October 28th. Battalion headquarters and third battalion (less Company I) were sent to Chaillon, designated as the battalion reserve. Regimental headquarters remained at Thillombois; first battalion at Woimbey. November 4th. The 132nd Infantry was ordered relieved on the front held by them in outpost positions on the Woevre plain facing the German lines between Jonville and Harville. Relief was completed on the 7th, with Regimental Headquarters on the hills in the forest near St. Maurice (482-286); third battalion headquarters, St. Maurice; second battalion headquarters, Hannonville ; first battalion in supporting posi- tion at Vieville. Company I was relieved at St. Mihiel and rejoined the third battalion, machine gun company to Longeau Farm. Positions occu- pied were designated as the sub-sector Massachusetts. November 12th, a reassignment of positions was made, first and second battalions at Han- nonville; third battalion and machine gun company at Thillot; Supply Company at the railroad at (444-482). As usual, wherever the 131st Infantry occupied a position in the line anywhere with the enemy in front of it, things began to happen. This case was no exception, as will be noted by the following narrative of operations, related in the next chapter. 124 ST. HILAIEE AND BUTGNEVILLE 1918 AEROPLANE VIEW OF ST. IIII.AIRE AND BUTGNEVILLE CHAPTER VIII TROYON SECTOR (Contiiiuatioii of Argoniie-Meuse Offensive) ATTACKS ON ST. HILAIRE— BOIS de HARVILLE— la BERTAUCOURT FARM, ETC. OTHER MOVEMENTS TO DECEMBER UTH MAP REFERENCE: VIGNEULLES A AND B, 1/20,000 The night of November 5th-6th, the third battalion moved ont of Chaillon and relieved the first battalion of the 132nd Infantry at St. Maurice. The second battalion moved out of Deuxnouds night of 5th-6th and relieved the third battalion, 132nd Infantry at Hannonville. In the night of 6th-7th the first battalion located at Deuxnouds, relieved the sec- ond battalion, 132nd Infantry at Vieville and the 131st Machine Gun Com- pany moved to Longeau Farm. The morning of November 7th the vari- ous units of the 131st Infantry were located as follows: Headquarters, Bois de la Montague (48.2-48.6) ; first battalion at Vieville; second bat- talion at Hannonville ; third battalion at St. Maurice and machine gun company at Longeau Farm. The position was defensive with centers of IIDQKS. IHIST INF. AT CHAILLON 125 126 SITUATION IN ST. MIHIEL SECTOE 1918 resistance on the line Hannonville-St. Maurice- Vieville. Patrol zone, the terrain between the outpost zone and the enemy. Mission. 1. To keep in touch with the enemy. 2. To keep the integrity of the position of resistance. (a) During normal situation in this sector, to repel raids and local attacks, maintaining the integrity of its position, avoid losses from gas and shell fire by keeping the outpost system lightly held by means of strong points. (b) In case of general attack to concentrate its defensive on a line of resistance supported by reserves and by all available means of defense. Patrols. (See maps.) Following the extensive attack which resulted in the capture of the salient north of St. Mihiel, enemy activity on this immediate front seems to have gradually lessened and at the time of our occupation there ap- peared to be some question as to where the enemy's lines were located, with suspicions in some quarters that he had withdrawn from the imme- diate front. The only indications of occupation were a few shells sent over every night apparently searching battery positions and an occa- sional aeroplane making observation in the day time. In consequence of this uncertainty it was determined that patrols should be sent well for- ward until they came in contact with the enemy, identification secured and No Man's Land covered in an aggressive manner, preventing enemy reconnaissance or activity except in force. To that end, strong patrols went out nightly. Later, when contact was obtained, raids were organized. IIDQRS. 3RD BATTALION AT ST. MALUlCi: 918 PATROL ACTIVITIES 127 HDQRS. 1ST BATTALION, HANNONVILLE soon clearing up the situation and resulting- in the capture of a number of prisoners and gaining additional territory. Patrol No. 1. Night of November 6th-7th : Two officers and forty other ranks passed outpost near Wadonville toward Butgneville, along the stream northeast to east of St. Hilaire. Patrol left at 6 :00 p. m. and returned at 2 :30 a. m. Saw no enemy, but observed signs of recent occu- pation in trenches near St. Hilaire. Patrol No. 2. Two officers and forty other ranks leaving 4 :00 a. m. and returning 8 :00 a. m. the 7th of November ; reconnoitered Bois de Warville and Bois les Hautes Epines. Returned on account of fog clear- ing up, located no enemy in woods reconnoitered. Patrol No. 3. One officer and twenty-five other ranks left at 11 :00 a. m., returning at dark, November 7th ; route to 500 yards southwest of south end of Bois les Hautes Epines, thence through the village of Don- court ; thence north about 100 yards, returning without encountering the enemy. Patrol No. 4. Three officers and forty other ranks left 11 :30 p. m., November 7th, and returned 2 :30 a. m., the 8th ; route from Woel north- east along the Woel-Jonville road to opposite Bois de la Haute Voye, thence north to Bois la Vacherie, through southern edge of wood and return. No enemy encountered. Patrol No. 5. One officer and forty other ranks left at 3 :00 a. m. and re'turned at 8 :00 a. m. the 8th. Route — Avillers-Doncourt to southwest of Bois de Warville, at which point they captured one sergeant, one 128 PATROL ACTIVITIES 1918 corporal, eight privates and a light machine gnn. Prior to reaching this point German signals were sent up from Bois de Harville, which were answered in three or four minutes by artillery. Barrage was laid down 250 yards west of Bois de Warville and moved slowly in the direction of Doncourt. Before the patrol reached Doncourt the barrage lifted and was placed in the village for forty minutes. Bois de Warville was found to be heavily wired. Patrol was fired upon by at least four machine guns from edge of Bois de Harville — road between Doncourt and Bois de War- ville was found to be barricaded in two places. Patrol No. 6. Consisting of one officer and forty other ranks, left Hannonville at 3 :00 a. m., returned at 7 :00 a. m. the 9th of November. When patrol reached the eastern edge of AVadonville enemy put down a barrage in their front. Patrol returned, with no- observation of value. Patrol No. 7. Consisting of two officers and forty other ranks, went out at 11 :00 a. m. the 9th, to 4 :30 p. m. the 9th, in the direction of Bois de Warville. After the men crossed the Doncourt-St. Hilaire road and had advanced about 350 meters they received machine gun tire from 52.6-54.7 and rifle fire from 52.5-55.5. Saw eleven enemy. Drove the enemy into Butgneville. A rocket was fired from the south of the town, which was followed by machine gun fire in front of the town, and toward the east men were seen moving at about 53.0-54.8, which rocket was sent IIUQHS. XHI) r.ATTALIOX. IIANXONVILI.E 918 RAID ON ST. HILAIRE 129 ^ — — — «s;^^ STREET IN HANNONVILLB up from that point. Also, enemy aeroplane flew over directing artillery fire on the patrol. Barrage was laid down in front of St. Hilaire for five minutes, then moved down the road in the direction of Doncoiirt. By this time machine gun fire was coming from front and flanks and patrol withdrew. No captures. Casualties: no officers; three other ranks. Patrol No. 8. Two officers and forty other ranks left Wadonville at 9 :30 p. m., November 9th, returned 2 :30 a. m., November 10th. Proceeded to St. Hilaire and found the town flooded with water. Enemy patrol of eight men seen retreating. At 52.6-55.5 there was an enemy post, enemy seen withdrawing with light machine gun. Patrol received heavy fire from northeast direction beyond St. Hilaire-Butgneville Road. Strong point located at 52.7-55.7. St. Hilaire unoccupied by the enemy. Machine gun emplacements at 52.3-55.3 and 51.9-54.9. Patrol withdrew without capturing any prisoners. Casualties : officers, none ; other ranks, two. Raids. Pursuant to memorandum from commanding general, 66th Infantry Brigade, November 6th, 1918, a raid was carried out on the village of St. Hilaire, on November 8th, 1918, 5 :45 a. m., for the purpose of taking prisoners and obtaining identification and killing Boche. The composition of the force participating in the raid was two pro- visional companies of the 131st Infantry of 100 men each, 4 stretcher bearers, and two scouts attached to each company. Officer Commanding Raid — Captain William M. Wilson. Second in Command — First Lt. Thomas V. Casey. First Provisional Company: Officer in Command — 1st Lt. George Dunford. Second in Command — 2nd Lt. Walter U. Beauvais. 130 EAID ON ST. HILAIRE 1918 Second Provisional Company : Officer in Command — 1st Lt. Julian L. Douglas. Second in Command — 2nd Lt. Paul F. Hunnewell. Plan of the Raid. One platoon was sent from Wadonville to take position near the saw mill Muncel facing St. Hilaire. This platoon to remain in position during the raid for the purpose of cutting off escape of enemy to southwest and to take prisoners. Two companies less one platoon, to proceed along the west bank of Moutru stream, forming up between points 52.3-55.0 and forming up line 52.4-55.4 facing St. Hilaire. Troops were equipped in liglit marching order without identity of any kind, 100 rounds of ammunition and at least two hand grenades per man. Artillery Support. Destructive fire on Marcheville and St. Hilaire Road, Butgneville, southwest edge of Bois de Harville. Smoke on Marcheville and Butgneville, southwest edge of Bois de Harville. A standing barrage in crescent shape immediately north of the town of St. Hilaire from 51.3-55.6 to 52.5-55.5 from " H " hour to " H " plus 55 minutes. A creeping barrage in front of the forming up line from about 52.3- 55.7 to 51.8-55.0 in a general direction, northeast and southwest, standing for fifteen minutes and moving forward at the rate of 100 meters each three minutes, through St. Hilaire. Troops were to proceed when 200 meters of¥ the rolling barrage follow same into St. Hilaire, remaining there until "H" liour ])]us 45 minutes at which time they were to return to our lines bv wav of St. Hilaire-Wadonville Road. ^REKT IX IIAXNOXVILLE LOOKIXCi TOWARD DOXCOUKT 1918 ROAD BARRICADED 131 AI1> I'OST OF i;nST INF. AT DOXCOFUT The officer commanding the raid reports that they left the assembling point (cross-roads, 48.5-48.7) at 1:10 hour with 50 men from the second battalion, proceeded down the road to Thillot and thence via. St. Maurice, Anvillers, Woel Road to Doncourt, arriving there at 4:30 hour. En- countered no oj^position up to this point, but chased two skulkers out of some bushes, whom they did not fire upon for fear of disclosing their position. On the way from Woel to Doncourt he noticed that the tele- l)hone wires were all in good repair and that they were singing as though the current was being used through them. Protected by a fan-shaped patrol of eleven men with flankers on either side, they left Doncourt and started for the objective at five hour. At a point about 52.3-53.6 they encountered approxinuitely forty feet of various kinds of barbed trip wire, which they were forced to remove from the road. At a point about 52.2-54.0 they encountered a barricade three feet high and two feet wide, made of wood exterior and sod interior, stretching completely across the road. He examined this barricade very closely before allowing troops to cross it and while ascertaining whether it was safe or not for them to proceed up the road, discovered that the sod was laid in since the last rain, which had been about 10:00 o'clock the evening previous. Beyond the barricade there were about five feet of trip wire which they were forced to cut, also seven feet of French wire which they were forced to remove from the road before they could pro- ceed. Beyond this there was a strip of about forty meters of various kinds of trip wire arranged in irregular style. 132 MACHINE GUNS DISCOVERED 1918 At a point where this barricade crossed the road they heard v/histling; in a clump of bushes to the ri^ht, but a patrol sent to investigate found nothing. When 51.9-5-l:.5 was reached it was discovered that the bridge over the stream De Moutru had been destroyed. The stream at this point was about six feet wide and three feet deep. Raiding party formed on the objective 52.0-54.6 to 52.3-55.3 along the road, M and I companies in the front line, and second battalion pro- visional company in the second line, this being at about 5 :35 hour. At the "H" hour the front line plunged through the stream and formed up on the jumping off line. Reconnaissance was made to the front and up the St. Hilaire-Doneourt road to a point approximately 51.8-54.9, and no signs of the enemy were seen ; also on the east side of the stream among tree stumps and bushes nothing was seen. The ground was soggy, but far from being a swamp. No wire or enemy works were observed. On the south side of St. Hilaire-Butgneville Road there are heavy thick bushes, and when an attempt was made to reconnoitre through these bushes an enemy white flare was thrown up in front of the bushes, immediately followed by heavy machine gun fire, which forced the troops to take shelter in shell holes. A German was seen carrying a machine gun about 70 to 110 yards up the road, coming towards Doncourt, with evident intention of getting in the rear. A squad was sent toward the machine gunner and on seeing them, he turned around and ran back towards the town. Seven machine guns were observed along the St. Hilaire-Butgneville Road, between the town and the point 52.4-55.7. Four machine guns in a large building at the corner of the town, three FOUMIXC; i;i' line for raids on ST. HIL.\IRE NOV. S AND 9. 1918 918 RETURN OF RAIDING PARTY 133 GERMAN MACHINE GUN ANli KATTERY POSITIONS, 131ST INF. HILAIRE, CAPTURED BY in a small building adjacent to the large building, both of these at a point approximately 51.9-55.6, and twelve guns along the St. Hilaire-Don- court Koad, from the town to a point about 51.7-55.1. At this point thirty men, unable to stand the fire, dropped back about 25 yards and with- drawal orders were issued immediately. Troops fell back slowly and in good order, dropping back ten or fifteen yards at a time firing volleys at each halt. Our artillery was weak, barrage that should have fallen on St. Hilaire was reported as nil. Route returning was across the country towards Thillot, to prevent casualties. The entire party crossed the St. Hilaire-Doncourt Road and the stream successfully. After crossing the stream at 51.9-51.5, machine gun fire was encountered. At this time the enemy put up a heavy strafe on the area in front of Wadonville, in the squares 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, and shelled the St. Hilaire-Doncourt Road with whizbangs, guns of heavy calibre and overhead shrapnel. Remarks. In view of the fact that the officer commanding this raid had been in action several times, and expected proper co-operation from the artillery as he had been accustomed to see in the past, it may not be fair to judge or criticize his decisions and acts, he being on the ground at the time ; but it would appear that some effort might have been made even without entering the town of St. Hilaire, to send experienced details out for the purpose of capturing some of these machine guns. Prisoners captured, one. 134 SECOND RAID OX ST. HILAIRE 1918 Second Raid. The first raid on the town of St. Hilaire having been productive of no results of importance, the second was organized by Major Francis M. Allen, third battalion, the zone of action limits of raid com- position and object being identical to the first raid. Major Allen being ill, was unable to accompany the troops, organization of which was as follows : Commanding Officer : Captain James C. Stockwell. Second in Command : 1st Lt. George M. Dunford. First Provisional Company. Officer in Command : 2nd Lt. Richard H. Buvens, Jr. Second in Command : 2nd Lt. Wilton U. Beauvais. Second Provisional Company. Officer in Command : 1st Lt. Thomas V. Casey. Second in Command : 2nd Lt. Patrick Cronin. Companies were formed up at 5:35 a. m., November 9th, across tiie St. Hilaire-Butgneville road facing the village of St. Hilaire, hour of attack was placed at 5 :45 a. m., prior to which time destructive artillery fire was placed in the town for forty -five minutes. Artillery fire was also directed on the towns of Marcheville and Butgneville and on the southwest edge of Bois de Harville, which continued for an additional forty-five minutes. Smoke shells were also fired on the three latter points. All units advanced as ordered, passed through and around the town. No opposition was encountered. No enemy was seen, except two men, who escaped to the west at the beginning of the attack. On the east and south edge of the town were located about six machine gun posts partly CAMOLFLAGED PILL P.OX FRONT OF ST. IIILAIKI 1918 OCCUPATION OF BOIS DE WAEVILLE 135 -MACIIIXE CUX NEST. ST. 1I11.A11U-; destroyed. On the western edge of the town, in two buildings, were ma- chine gun posts, destroyed. Town found encircled with wire entangle- ments, except at the main road entering the town from the northeast. Raiding party returned to quarters at 8 :30 a. m. No captures ; no casualties. November 9th, 1918, the brigade commander ordered two companies sent out to gain and keep contact with the enemy. These companies were to clean out the Bois les Hautes Epines and Bois de Warville. From these companies were to be sent patrols through Bois le Yachere, Bois Vieux, and to la Berteaucourt Farm. First Lt. Herman B. Gengenbach, with Company A, occupied Bois le Vachere about 10 :00 p. m. A detail under Second Lt. Burl F. Hall, attempted to occupy Bois Vieux, but on account of wire entanglements and enemy resistance, was obliged to withdraw. Second Lt. Patrick D. Cronin, Math a detail of forty men, overcame enemy machine gun resistance in Bois de Warville, occupying same at 2 :00 a. m. the 10th. Enemy Information on Raids. It was observed during the operation of these various patrols and raids that in some instances the enemy made dispositions which led to belief that he had information in advance. A number of civilians were allowed to remain in town of St. Maurice, by order of higher authoritv, on some of whom suspicion was directed, 136 BOIS DE WAEVILLE AND BOIS LES HAUTE8 EPINES i 9 | 8 AEROPLANE VIEW BOIS DE WARVILLE AND B0I8 LES IL AUTES EPINES 1918 CHANGES ON ENEMY FRONT 137 although no proofs were forthcoming. In one instance onr wire had been cut, one end drawn into a building, and was found with the insulation stripped back, indicating possible use. Changes on Enemy Front. Following the signing of an armistice with Austria by the Allies, all Austrian troops were shortly thereafter withdrawn from the front. In the sector on our immediate front, they were replaced by Prussians, and a considerable change was noticed at once in the character of the resistance, as well as the efficiency of the troops. Prisoners did not come forward and give themselves up. Machine gunners were very active in occupying flanking positions and withdrawing promptly when threatened with envelopment. The N. C. 0. of one machine gun company stated that he had observed our large patrols, one of which passed close to his nest in the dark, without being seen. He stated that when large patrols passed they kept perfectly quiet, afterwards made report of what they had seen. The group was afterwards captured by a night patrol, a member of which heard slight noise in the bushes and went over to investigate it. Localities that were occupied by numbers of machine guns were found deserted at other times. Evidently, their efforts were directed in making dispositions which would cut off a patrol. They apparently studied the routes usually taken. Once, at least, the enemy was in position on three sides of a patrol which retreated, Bais de Harville. Inasmuch as our operations during the 10th and 11th of November, and until the cessation of hostilities, lay principally in this wood, a brief description is submitted. This wood lies between the towns of Jonville and Harville, through which towns the enemy trench line extends. The southwestern edge of this wood lies 600 meters north- WIRE ENTANGLEMENTS AROUND BUTGNEVILLE 138 BOIS DE HARVILLE 1918 AEHOPLAXE VIEW nv lU.IS DE HARVIL 1918 FIRST ATTACK OX BOIS DE HARVILLE 139 EDGE OF BOIS LKS IIAUTES El'IXES LOOKING TOWARD I'.OIS DE IIARVILl east from the iiorthe':ist edge of the Bois de AVarviUe. The wood is from 500 to 600 meters wide, extending northeast 1,700 meters, where it joins the Bois de Montelle. The Jonville-Harville road crosses the woods in the rear of the enemy trench line about 800 meters from the sonthwest edge. It was recognized early in the operations of November 10th that this wood was a veritable stronghold, occupied in force. A prisoner stated that it was held by a regiment of infantry. Penetration into the wood developed the fact that strong wire entanglements ran through in every direction, cleverly concealed by bushes and dominated by machine gun nests on the paths, as well as on platforms in the trees. Strong wire and machine gun nests on the outer edges made penetration by our patrols impossible. First Attack on Bois de Harville. At 11 :30 a. m., November 9th, warning orders were received from commanding general. Thirty-third Division, to prepare for an advance, and be ready to move out fully equipped when ordered. At 4 :30 p. m. orders were received, making the following dispositions of the 132nd Infantry : Second battalion and machine gun company from Deuxnouds to St. Maurice, First battalion from Woimbey to Deuxnouds, balance of the regiment to be ready to move whenever ordered. At 9 a. m., November 10th, the commanding general, in Field Order No. 34, states : "Reports received indicate that the enemy is withdrawing progres- sively on our front from west to east, leaving a shell to cover his depar- ture. The Eighty-first Division is pushing forward on our left, the Twenty-eighth Division on our right and other divisions of the second army pushed forward at 7 a. m. today. The Thirty-third Division will carry out the mission laid down in ' Conduct in case of withdrawal of the 140 ORDEE OF ATTACK [918 enemy Annex No. 11 to Defense Scheme, Troyon-Chaillon Sector, dated Nov. 8, 1918. Movement will commence at once.' " The commanding general. Sixty-sixth brigade, thereupon issued or- ders for a reconnaissance in force, object to seize a limited portion of the enemy's main line of defense, and to exploit any weakness shown to exist. The following paragraplis of Regimental Field Order No. 49, issued the morning of November 10th, cover the general instructions governing the attack : 2. (a) The 131st Infantry regiment will raid on "D" day at "H" hour in the direction La Beuville. Mission : To clear Bois de Harville, to take prisoners and kill boche. Neighboring units will be requested to make a demonstration simultaneously to this action. (b) Zone of action: West boundary point 52.2-53.3 west edge of Bois de Warville and Bois de Harville. East boundary ; Doncourt, along Rau de Remonville to Bois les Hautes Epines to Cote 222, thence to south corner of Bois de Harville and along southeast edge of Bois de Harville to 54.8-55.5. Objective : 54.5-55.9 to 54.8-55.6. 3. (a) The Second battalion, less one company, and Third battalion will assemble immediately and march to Doncourt, head of column at Doncourt, Doncourt-Woel road, where they will both come under com- mand of Captain Walter H. Magner, in charge of forward troops, and will be there at 5 a. m. (b) One company of Second battalion, plus four machine guns, as per orders previously received, will proceed to St. Hilaire and occupy LINE OF GERMAN DUGOUTS, BOIS LES HAUTES EPINES GERMAN PILL BOX NEAR ST. IIILAIRK 918 ORDER OF ATTACK 141 rs t BV""^"^''' ''11 1^ /^ p«i < LA F.ERTAi:Ct»URT FAKM. OP.JECTIVK OF 1ST l'.N., NOV. lOTIT that town, placiiiji' machine guns in position in a general direction towards the enemy. They will support the action during the attack as it arises. (c) Machine gun companies, now attached to Second and Third bat- talions, will assemble at their respective battalion headquarters and await further orders. The machine gun company of the First battalion, if not already assembled with two companies at Woel, will do so at once. 4. The 131st Infantry, minus First battalion, will attack with the Third battalion in front and Second battalion in support, with Company A, 124th machine gun battalion attached to Third battalion and Com- pany B, 124th machine gun battalion attached to Second battalion. (a) By ''H" hour, minus 30 minutes, the attacking battalion (third battalion) will be in position in Bois de Warville, and the supporting Battalion (Second battalion) will be in position in Bois les Hautes Epines. (b) At "H" hour, minus five minutes, the Third battalion will move up to within 300 yards of the rolling barrage, which will start on the southwestern edge of Bois de Harville. (c) At "H" hour the barrage will move forward at the rate of 100 yards each five minutes. Note. — Troops must not approach closer than 300 yards to the roll- ing barrage. (d) Support battalion (Second battalion) will not move forward, except on orders of Pliable One. Its purpose will be to cover the flanks of the Third battalion. (e) The attacking battalion, Third battalion, will clear up the terri- tory as it proceeds, and upon reaching its objective and completing its 142 OEDER OF ATTACK 1918 task, the Third battalion will withdraw to the main position of resistance, leaving: one company at Doncourt. (f ) After the withdrawal of the Third battalion the Second battalion will withdraw, leaving one company in Bois de Warville and Bois les Hantes E pines, with one platoon of machine gnns, one company in Wadonville and one company on main position of resistance. (g-) The two companies of the First battalion, nnder Captain AVilson, now clearing- ont the Bois les Hantes Epines, will join the supporting battalion (Second battalion) and come under the command of the com- manding officer of forward troops. 5. Reports. Commanding officers of troops will send a constant stream of messengers, communicating progress and conditions of attack to this P. C. so that the same may be forwarded to general headquarters, through channels, as the reports of the raids being made and the number of prisoners taken with positions of same, is very important under the present peculiar conditions of affairs on our front. 6. Prisoners. Must be taken and forwarded to this P. C. constantly. 7. Signal officer will follow troops in this operation and maintain constant connnunication by means of buzzer phone and all other avail- able means. 8. Equipment. Troops will be equipped with regulation battle dress, wire cutters (for two attacking companies), one to each four men, two hand grenades and 100 rounds of ammunition to each man. Two davs' field rations will be carried. FOinVAKD r. r. OF REGT. AT WOEL, XU\ . 11 1918 AETILLERY SUPPORT 143 EIXJE OF r.OIS LES IIAUTES El'IXES AND I'.OIS DE WAKVILLE, SHELL EXPLOSION 9. Administration details — unchanged. P. C/s unchanged. Liai- son plan unchanged. 10. Artillery. (Plan to follow.) Artillery will deliver rolling barrage from "H" hour, minus five minutes. A standing box barrage, 300 yards beyond objective line from 54.4-56.0 to 55.0-56.0, thence down meridian 56, to 54.8. from "H" hour to "H" hour, plus one hour. In- terdiction and harassing fire will be made at following points from "H" hour to "H" hour, plus one hour and thirty minutes: Butgneville- Mullotte, Harville, Boise le Dame, Jonville and along southern edge of Bois Houlotte. Smoke at points (as per sketch), artillery preparation and standing barrage on Les Raffailes, Cutre L'Eau, Berteaucourt Farm, from " H ' ' hour minus five minutes, to " H " hour, plus one hour. Counter battery work under direction of artillery commander. "D" Day November 10th, "H" hour 11 a. m. Artillery Support. Artillery rolling barrage, interdiction and har- assing fire was weak, especially barrage fire on the Bois de Harville, be- tween 10 and 11 a. m. Officers who were in observation state that a few shells fell in the woods, but not in sufficient volume to destroy wire en- tanglements, or drive out enemy machine gun posts. Some officers reported no shelling on their front. AttachiiKj Force. The Third battalion was designated to make the 144 PIEECING THE ENEMY LINE 1918 ROAD LEADING INTO BOIS I>KS IIAl'l' attack with the Secoiul battalion in support. Captain James C. Stock- well, commanding the battalion, made dispositions for the attack, but did not follow them up, sending the message that artillery support was necessary. In reply to inquiry as to when he would be ready to attack, he set the hour at 2 p. m., but did not advise as to disposition of his forces. After conference with brigade commander it was decided that in view of the situation more troops might be required, and at 11 :45 a message was sent to Captain Walter H. Magner, commanding Second battalion, to take command of the Third battalion, and to attack at once, with authority to use the Second battalion, if needed. The Third battalion moved forward at 2 :18 p, m., and was met by very heavy machine gun and artillery fire. At 3 :15 it became necessary to send a company to the right for the pro- tection of the flanks. Company H, Second battalion, under command of First Lieut. "William E. Simpson, moved forward. As they neared the woods they suffered many casualties. Lieutenant Simpson being killed. The company was at once re-enforced and consolidated with Company G, First Lieut. Julian L. Douglas was placed in command of the combined force, gaining a position to the right of the battalion. With this aid the line moved forward, cleaning up the woods and driving the enemy beyond the Jonville-Harville road, penetrating and piercing the enemy line. Activity of friendly troops to the right and left of our sector of attack appeared to be lacking, no appreciable effect was observed. 1918 WORK OF MACHINE GUNS 145 AID POST 131ST INF. AT WOEL Further advance was checked and rendered impossible by heavy fire encountered. Many machine guns were forward in position, others were enfilading the position from the right, and enemy shells were falling in increasing volume. An enemy detachment was observed approaching on the left from the direction of Butgneville, threatening that flank. Troops held on to the position, however, until about 6 p. m., at which time gas became so dense that further occupancy, either by our own or enemy troops, became impossible, and they withdrew to the northeast edge of the Bois de Warville. Machine Guns. Company A, 124th machine gun battalion, was at- tached to attacking battalion, one platoon on the left flank to cover the advance, to take position as soon as troops entered the woods on the left edge, one platoon on the right to advance with and in rear of attack- ing infantry, to take position on the southeast edge of woods when ob- jective was reached, one section each of the support platoon was sent to the right and left center of the woods. All guns were placed in depth. The right platoon withdrew with the infantry, the other platoons re- mained in position until 3 a. m., the 11th. About 3,000 rounds of ammu- nition were expended on advanced enemy strong points. Machine gun casualties, three privates slightly wounded by shell fire. Company B, 124th machine gun battalion, sent forward one platoon with Companies G and H, Second battalion. When these companies went forward, supporting the right of the line, Lieut. Hill, commanding the platoon, reached a point nearly on the objective, taking position on the right of the infantry. Upon reconnoitering some of these positions, 146 PLANS FOR NOVEMBER 11 1918 Sergeant Ely, of the machine gun company, met and captured eleven prisoners single handed. Assisting Attacks. The 110th Infantry on our immediate right, op- erating toward Jonville, in position Math their left at the northwest cor- ner of Haravillers Wood, was put in liaison with our line by sending to them First Lieut. William G. Sanger, Jr., and fifty other ranks. At 11 a. m., November 10th, Company A, First Lieut. Herman B. Gengenbach commanding, made an attack from the edge of the Bois les Hautes Epines on La Berteaucourt Farm, which succeeded. At 3 p. m. a second attack was made. In the meantime enemy forces at that point had been re-enforced and, although accomplishing its mission, the com- pany met with considerable resistance, losing one man killed and seven wounded. A machine gun, with abundance of ammunition, was captured, and afterwards used against the enemy. About 6 p. m. the enemy was observed forming up in three waves in the La Vachere wood for attack. The formation was broken up and the enemy dispersed by machine gun, automatic rifle and rifle fire. During this time enemy barrage was put down on the company position and one man was killed. No assisting actions developed on our immediate right or left during the day. Plans for Novemher 11th. It was the plan of the brigade com- mander, as expressed by him, to take advantage of the ground gained COL. SAXr.OKNS IlorSK. SOUILLY, OCT. liL'XD 918 PLAN OF 66TH BEIGADE 147 SOUILLY WOODS, 1318T IXF. lIDgKS. in the Bois de Harville, November 10th, the following- morning ; to ad- vance the left of the Third battalion line, pivoting on the right, thence attacking sontheast along the enemy trench line, take Dame Wood and advance inside the wire toward Jonville. At the same time the Second l)attalion was to make a secondary attack on the front. It was believed that this movement wonld resnlt in the capture of Jonville and open a wide breach in the enemy's main line of resistance. In support of this movement attacks were to be made on La Berteaucourt Farm and Butgne- ville. The 132nd Infantry was ordered forward where it wonld be available if required. For the purpose of neutralizing enemy efforts on the left protecting that flank and gaining vantage ground, from which supporting movement might be launched. Company F, 131st Infantry, with four machine guns attached, stationed at St. Hilaire, were specified by the general as the force which should make an early attack on Butgneville. At 6 :15 p. m., November 10th, the following message was sent the company commander at St. Hilaire. "At 5 a. m. tomorrow a heavy artillery destructive fire will be laid down on Butgneville, about one mile northeast of you. You will advance to town, and following the artillery shoot, take this town of Butgneville and hold same, using your entire force of the company and four machine 148 NOTICE OF ARMISTICE 1918 iTuns. Arkiiowledgv receipt of this mossaiic and keep us advised lunirly. or ot'tener, of your moves. Also have phoue eonimuuieation made with St. llihiire and Woel tonight and have sio-nal ofKeer at Woe! folhnv you in tlie attack witli a wire.'" Plan of the liMh Bricjadr. It was the i)hui of the (ioth briiiaiK'. on our left, to also advance at o a. m.. the lUh. push rapidly forward, cov- ering: the entire ground and occupyinu' important points within the briii-ade zone of action, whicli included the tmvn of Man-heviUc. Attack on BHt(iH(i'ilh\ Company F. First J.ieut. Carroll D. Sehnepp eommaudiuir, Avith attached nuichine iiinis (two platoons. Com- pany H, 132nd Infantry in reserve) left St. llilaire at 5:20 a. m., the 11th, advancinir northeast toward Butiiiieville. After erossiny the Ran de,Moutru, the scouts drew enemy tire, ami the tirst wave closed on the scout line and advanceil. A number of Hares were sent \\p by the enemy and machine gun tire increased. A trench mortar also opened tii'c on the advancing: troops. ^Machine guns were placed on the flanks, and under their fire an advance was made until wire entanglements in front of the town, which were still intact, were reached. The right of the advance was held tip by machine gun tire. As the left advanced it was also met by nmchine gun fire. HeaAy rifle and machine gun fire came from the town. The company commander stated he was receiving no artillery support. The shell fire, which was supposed to be put on the town, fell short and did little, if any, damage. The machine gun oflficer states that the barrage never fell, and that the enemy outnumbered them. Six machine gun men were killed and five wounded. Infantry casualties: One officer wounded, three other ranks killed: twenty Avounded. Troops returned to St. Hilaire at !' a. m. Attack on La Bcrteaucourt Farm. This attack was not started, due to the troops who Avere to carry it out being relieA'ed by the 132nd Infantry. Final Dispositions. Shortly after 4:00 o'clock the nu)i'ning of XoA'ember 11th the commanding oflicer of the 131st Infantry established his forAvard battle station at AVoel, AA'here the commanding general of the 66th Brigade arriA-ed shortly after. Steps Avere at once taken to concentrate the 131st Infantry (less Company F and four machine guns at St Hilaire) and Company C, AA'hich furnished the liaison detail to the 110th Infantry and other details for bringing up ammunition, etc. The 131st machine gnu company reported at AVoel during the night, November 9th-10th, and sent two guns to relieve the detachment of the 124th machine gun battalion, on duty Avith the liaison group, on the left of the 110th Infantry, remainder of the company being sent to Don- court. No changes Avere made in the general plan of attack except to place progressive artillery fire on the Rois de Harville. northeast of. and 1918 SUPPOETING ABM8 149 THE HOME OF COLONEL SAM'.OUX DlltlNi NOV.,- 1!»1.^ along the Jonville-Harville Road, gradually moving forward and rest- ing on the northeast edge of the woods in support of the advance, also continued tire along the northwest edge of the same wood. Notice of Armistice. While the troops were being assembled in the Bois de Warville, at 8 :30 a. m., telephone notice was received that the armistice had been signed, that all firing on our part was to cease at once except to repel counter-attacks, the information being conveyed to troops in position and re-enforcing battalions successively as they arrived. The enemy gradually ceased firing from the trenches and ma- chine gun positions, but it was not until 11:00 o'clock sharp that a com- plete cessation was noticed. One machine gunner ran out into a position and shot at everybody in sight up to the last moment. Artillery fire with shrapnel also did not cease until a few minutes after eleven. Faithful to their trust, true to their traditions, noble in their sacri- fice, the men of Illinois were suffering, wounded and dying, when the cur- tain came down at the end of the great world tragedy. Machine Guns. Full vise appears to have been made of machine guns and automatic rifles. The men of the 124th machine gun battalion attached to the different battalions, did splendid work and suffered heavily. They went into position, which they believed untenable, with- out hesitation, and fought their way through without ever a thought of turning back. During the last hours they were in the fight many were completely worn out, still they fought on with no word of com- plaint or request for relief. Their fortitude under trying circumstances will ever remain an example worthy of emulation, meriting the highest praise from this regiment. 150 CAPTURES 1918 Trench Mortal's and 37 MilUmcter Guns. Although there appear to have been many opportunities for the use of these specialties during the engagement of the 10th and the morning of the 11th reports fail to record a single instance of their use. This may be due to the fact that battalion commanders were line captains not fully familiar with their employment. The only excuse appears to be they were afraid of drawing enemy artillery fire. Artillery Support. Our artillery action was weak and inetfective, some light pieces well forward were badly needed, both for retaliation and counter-battery work. Aero Activity. Enemy planes were not present in large numbers, but such as appeared were permitted to signal back without molestation. Supply. Reserve ammunition was delivered promptly and in ample quantities. The problem of company delivery of rations caused no diffi- culty until the evening of November 9th, when the units took position on the Woevre plain. It became impossible to deliver rations until the evening of November 10th, when hot meals were supplied to all the units. Considerable hostile artillery fire was encountered, especially in the vicinity of Doncourt. Signals and Liaison. Difficulty was experienced in obtaining suffi- cient wire, causing annoyance and delay in telephone operations. Mounted orderlies and runners were obliged to cover long distances between units resulting in slow delivery of messages. Fog and smoke rendered visual signalling impracticable. Captures. Prisoners; November 8th, 1918 — Officers, none; otiier ranks, nine. Total, 9. November 10th, 1918 — Officers, one ; other ranks, sixty-one. To- tal, 62. November 11th, 1918 — Officers, none; other ranks, six. Total, 6. Grand total — Officers, 1 ; other ranks, 77. Material. November 8th, 1918 — Light machine gun, No. 3527. November 10th, 1918 — Light machine gun. No. 2180. After the armistice all of the organizations of the regiment, except Regimental Headquarters and a detachment of Headquarters Company, were consolidated at Hannonville, where they remained until the march of the provisional battalion to Metz, and when the regiment started for the German border. The Woevre plain, which lies in the northwest corner of the St. Mihiel salient, at the foot of the high plateau on which is situated the grand mountain forest, can be overlooked from the edge of that plateau for many miles in the direction of Metz, Before the war it was dotted over in every direction with little farm villages, the ruins of which may be counted from one spot to the number of over twenty. The villages at the foot of the rise on the edge of the plain were not so 1918 CLEANING UP THE AEEA 151 WILIIELM KIKST, DETIIROXEI) AT METZ badly shot up and for four years were occupied by German troops. In the hills they caused to be constructed vast dugouts with cemented walls and along the hillside they built fine homes for the officers, beautifully furnished from the spoils taken from the inhabitants of the villages below. In the woods their narrow gauge railroads extended in every direc- tion for the transportation of guns and supplies. Along these railways in sheltered spots were located hunting lodges and buildings for use of the higher officers, also beautifully furnished, and equipped with every luxury, including electric lights, running water and pianos. One of these was set aside as the special residence of General Von Hindenburg, whenever he was in the vicinity. Evidently it was their intention to permanently occupy that part of the country and attach it to the adjoin- ing provinces of Alsace-Lorraine. When the Germans were pushed out of St. Mihiel salient all the villages in the area were left in filthy condi- tion. After the armistice, troops marching through them, stopping for the night, added their pile of tin cans and refuse. Furniture, bedding, clothing and household articles were thrown out into the street in piles sometimes several feet deep. We were unfortunate enough to be sta- tioned in some of these towns from November 11th until about Decem- ber 6th, and were given the job of cleaning up. In our area alone the entire regiment worked for weeks before an impression was made and anything like order prevailed. One shipment of salvage alone amounted to 75 car loads and we buried and burned an incredible amount of filth 152 FOEMAL OCCUPATION OF METZ 1918 and rubbish. The okl name of the "Illinois Improvement Association" followed us from Illinois into Texas over the seas and across France, and we earned the right to the title. About the first of December we were told that the formal occupation of the city of Metz would be cele- brated on December 8th by collecting there the most famous of the fighting troops of France. The governor general asked that the Ameri- Army be represented ou that occasion. When advised that the choice had fallen on the 131st Infantry and that a picked battalion would be sent, the regiment was combed from end to end to furnish enough presentable uniforms to equip it. We finally succeeded in getting a fairly good lot of uniforms together, but it was no small task, and not to be wondered at when it is considered that the men of the regiment had been for almost two months marching, sleeping and living in their clothes in rain, mud and trenches, with hardly a day they could call their own. The day came wlieu General Bell inspected the outfit. They did not look perfect enough, under his critical eye, with the result that he got some new belts and other articles to help us out, so that finally, with some pressing and polishing, appearance was mucli lietter. The story of the review is told in the following bulletin : Bulletin — Formal Occupation of Metz. Following the armistice of November 11th, 1918, German forces gradually withdrew from their former fronts and were followed closely by French, English and Amer- ican troops. The French occupied Alsace-Lorraine, placing a small force in the city of Metz. The formal occupation of these provinces was celebrated on the 8th of December by a review before the president of the republic in the Place de la Republique, in Metz, on which occasion were repre- sented battalions of the famous fighting divisions of France, including infantry, cavalry, artillery, tanks and armored cars. The governor- general made a special request to the French government that American troops Should be asked to participate, sending for that purpose a picked battalion from some fighting regiment, which has seen service with the French. The 131st Infantry was selected to represent the American forces at Metz. A provisional battalion of 32 officers and 735 men were selected, who left their station December 4th, marching across the famous battle- fields of Vionville, Mars la Tour and Gravolette, arriving in Longeville, a suburb of Metz, the afternoon of the 6th, where they were quartered in barracks, lately occupied by the vanishing German army. The fore- noon of the 7th was spent in a practice of the review, presided over by the governor-general, and arranged by his staff. This was necessary on account of the limited space available for the movement of a vast 1918 TROOPS IN THE REVIEW 153 WILHELM 2ND ON FRONT OF CATHE- DRAL, METZ DE MAUDHUY, GOVERNOR OF METZ body of troops requiring the most minute calculations to prevent block- ing the exits or congestion on the plaza, which covered an area smaller than a city block in Chicago. Metz is a very ancient city, having been founded before the Chris- tian era. It was at various times in the possession of the Germans, Romans and French. The streets are narrow and crooked. The city is circumvalliated by a moat built by Vauban, the celebrated French officer, who planned most of the old forts and defenses of France. In the center of the city is a magnificent old cathedral with many statues carved in stone representing the saints and kings of old. The face of one of these, a statue of the Prophet Daniel, was re-cut some years ago into a likeness of Kaiser Wilhelm II, over the front of which now hangs a placard with the inscription thereon, "Sic transit Gloria Mundi" (so passes the glory of earth). In the Plaza de la Republique was standing a heroic bronze statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I, now pulled down and lying flat on the ground. Facing the review space stands a bronze statue of Marshal Ney, represented as in action, bold in its execution and magnificent in its proportions. Such troops as could be accommodated on three sides of the plaza and facing the review pavilion were packed in closely without intervals, without file closers ; flags and standards in the front rank, and officers ou the flanks of their organizations. Commanders of division only were mounted. French Infantry was formed in sections of ten files, single rank at two pace intervals. The American troops were allowed to form 154 PASSING IN REVIEW 1918 by lialf companies in double ranks, with seven pace intervals, making nine companies of nine squads each. This formation made an imposing, compact body, easily maneuvered and impressive in appearance. Passing in review, the following was the order of march : Commanding Officer, 131st Infantry. American Army Band. Staff of 73rd French Division. Battalion, 131st Infantry. French Infantry. French Cavalry. French Artillery. Tanks, armored cars, etc. This review was held for sentimental reasons, in the square where the German emperor always held his reviews, whenever he visited the troops quartered in Metz. The Germans had constructed around the city barracks and cantonments to accommodate 50,000 soldiers. Grouped in the front seats of the reviewing stand were the Presi- dent of the Republic, M. Clemenceau, Marshal Joffre, Marshal Foch, Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig, General Pershing, Marshal Petain and Lord Derby. Behind them was a gathering of noted generals and other distinguished men. On each side of the reviewing stand were smaller stands occupied by generals, prominent citizens, veterans of the war of '70 and '71, etc. On each side of the reviewing stand were grouped young girls in native costumes, and further, extending the entire length of the square, were civic societies, officers, etc. The review was scheduled to commence at 9 :20 a. m., but it was not until some minutes later when the booming of cannon announced the arrival of the President and reviewing party. Shortly afterward the President and party walked along the front of the troops, regiments in turn presenting arms and rendering the prescribed honors ; next group- ing themselves in front of the reviewing stand all of the division color- bearers marched forward with the national flags, forming in line, facing the President, who made a few remarks. He then called General Petain forward and invested him with the baton of a Marshal of France in recog- nition of his distinguished services during the war. The review followed, led by the American battalion, conspicuous in its uniform of olive drab, contrasting sharply with the blue-gray of the French. Proudly the Stars and Stripes waved in the breeze, on this historic occasion, proudly the American soldiers in perfect lines swept by, as the governor-general re- marked, "Looking like the fighters that you are." After passing in review the American troops were massed beyond the Palace of Justice on an elevation overlooking the road, over which shortly after passed the 1918 CONGRATULATIONS 155 reviewing' party and a long procession of automobiles, filled with officers and girls in native costume, all gayly decorated with garlands and flags. The 8th of December will long be remembered by the liberated peo- ples of Alsace-Lorraine. For nearly fifty years they have lived under the oppression of German rule. They were subject to surveillance every moment of the day, compelled to speak the German language and to teach it in the schools. Their property was taken away from them with no pre- tense of just compensation. They were not allowed to observe their na- tional holidays or celebrate national events. They were made to feel the iron heel of oppression at all times. When the relief came they were wild with joy. They decorated the city and their homes with long hidden flags and bunting. They brought out the treasured relics of the days which linked them with France and if there were any German sympathiz- ers left, no outward evidence appeared. The night of the 8th there was some disturbance in the old city, windows were broken in a few German shops, but the situation was quickly taken in hand and quiet restored. Only troops on guard were allowed in the city, the afternoon of the 8th. As the American battalion left the morning of the 9th no opportunity was presented for sightseeing- except while passing through a portion of the city on the way to the review. While the French occupation of ]\Ietz was complete, time had not permitted the cleaning up of the city, for which reason American troops were, from necessity, assigned to barracks in Longeview. These barracks PARADE OF f'OLOKS P.EFOKE THE PRESIDENT OF FRANCE AT METZ 156 MOVE TOWAKD ({ERMANY 1918 r.A'lTALlON STAXDINc; AT KASK. KKVIKW AT .MKIV. were as the Germans left them, strij^ped of everytliino- of value, witlioiit light, heat or equipment. The American troops conducted themselves splendidly and were in every way a credit to the cause and country they represented. The gov- ernor-general stated that their appearance, conduct and performance of duty merited the highest praise, that he was pleased and gratified. On the morning of December 9th, the battalion started on its march of about fifty kilometers to catch up with the regiment, then on its way to Germany, which was accomplished the evening of the second day. The commanding officer congratulates the officers and men on their appearance, conduct and performance of duty and extends his thanks to all concerned for their willing co-operation and assistance in making this occasion an unequaled success. ,_, bANBORN, Colonel. Becemher 7th. All units of the regiment stationed at Hannonville marched to Mars la Tour, where they billeted for the night. Indicated objective was the Leudenlange area in the Duchy of Luxembourg, south- west of the city of Luxenbourg. The march was continued on the 8th, First battalion, Eegimental Headquarters, Headquarters Company, ma- chine gun company and supply company to Moineville ; second battalion to Yallerey, and third battalion to Hatrize. Upon arrival in this area orders Avere received to continue the march on the 9th, units in same order as noted to Mancieulus, jMairy and Anoux. The following day (10th) 918 OX THE OERMAX BOKDEK 157 movement was made, tliird battalion to Mercy la Hant; second battalion to Boudrezy; first battalion and headquarters company to Serrouville, Regimental Headquarters, Supply Company and machine gun company to Mercy la Haut. At the latter point the provisional battalion rejoined the regiment marching from Metz. On the 11th, march was completed to the Ludenlange area with the third battalion billeted in Esch, all other units in Schifflange. Agaiji orders were received to push forward on the 12th to the Hesperange area, which was reached in the afternoon. Regi- mental Headquarters, Headquarters Company, Supply Company, in Siren, first and second battalions, Contern. Companies K and L and machine gun company, Weiler Zumturm, Companies I and M, Aspelt. By the time troops arrived in these billets and settled it was evident that rest was necessar3\ Marching for the previous six days was over muddy roads with almost continuous rain. A considerable number of men had become foot sore from wearing wet socks and not a few shoes had become unserviceable, a halt was therefore called until the 14th. The objective of the next move was across the Moselle river to the vicinity of Saarburg, Germany, on the Saar river. Staging points, Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Company, Supply Company, machine gun company, Ehnen, first battalion, Costingen ; third battalion, Leningen ; second battalion, Wormeldange, which i)oints were reached that evening. BlilDGE AT WORMELDANGE, LUX., OVER WHICH THE 131ST INFANTRY CROSSED THE MOSELLE RIVER INTO GERMANY 158 DIVISION REVIEW [919 CHAPTER IX OPEKATIONS UNTIL FINAL MUSTER OUT OF THE REGIMENT JUNE 6, 1919 IN GERMANY AND LUXEMBOURG— RETURN TO THE UNITED STATES The march to and occupation of a portion of the German Empire by the 131st Infantry was a case of "marched up the hill and then marched down again." At 8:30 a. m., December 15, 1918, regimental lieadquarters, with units which had staged at Ehnen left that town, fol- lowing the road along the bank of the Moselle river as far as Wormel- dange. At that point a substantial stone bridge crosses the Moselle river. The only indication of a boundary line was a sentinel box on the Luxembourg end of the bridge, before which was stationed a smartly dressed young soldier, one of the 150, more or less, composing the Luxem- bourg army. He made no comment, simply saluted ; then, in common with a few other citizens who had gathered together on the streets, stood watching the American soldiers march past. With the band playing and the colors unfurled, the long lines of the regiment passed over and began I'KKSKXTA' "iSII DECORATIONS AT LAKOC 159 K. I.rX., JAN. 20, 1919 918 GENERAL PERSUING DECOUATlNCi THE COLORS OE THE 181ST INFANTRY the steep ascent winding' aroniid the hills to the top of a hio'h plateau which lies between the rivers Moselle and Saar. The descent into the Saar valley was equally steep. When the leading elements of the column had reached a point about one-fourth the way down into the Saar valley, it was 12 o'clock noon; consequently, a halt for one hour was made for rest and feeding men and animals. During- this period ample time was afforded to observe the careful conservation of space and material which has characterized German administration, and regarding which many articles have appeared in various magazines and journals published in the United States. What struck us forcibly was the care with which each little piece of ground in the valley was cultivated up to the edge of the next piece, or adjoining woods. On the sides of the terraced hills clus- tered miles of vineyaixls, carefully walled up to hold the scaut earth in which the vines are planted, with stone steps reaching to each level and skillfully arranged drains to carry off surplus water. Here and there covered stone recesses were cut into the side hills, evidently shelters in w^hich to store tools or grapes awaiting transportation to the wine presses in the valleys below. Here also was noted the first planting of American pine trees standing in rows like soldiers along the steep hillsides and over the ridges. These trees were about six or eight inches in diameter at the base, and planted quiet close together. Other forest groups were beech trees, evidently grown for lumber and fuel. Some of these latter were quite large, possibly 30 inches in diameter. All wooded areas were kept as clean as a city park, with no underbrush growing anywhere. Nowhere in these cultivated forest areas was noted any mixing of species, each tree stood in its own rank, always placed in long, regular rows, except where the conformation of the ground necessitated special arrange- ment. 1918 FRATERNIZING WITH THE PEOPLE 161 The regiment marched through Saarburg, crossed the Saar River and was billeted in Beurig, Schoden, Serrig and Irsch on the opposite bank. Here we remained until the morning of December 17th. Although our stay in Germany was very short, during that brief time all were im- pressed with the difference of the reception of the soldiers, and the general demeanor of the people toward them, as compared with other localities. The German population, at least, in this particular locality, appeared to regard the Americans as friends. Orders were strict against fraternizing with the people, nevertheless, a great deal of friendly inter- course was noticed. Many German families had relatives living in the states. Frequently, they located soldiers who knew these friends and naturally became quite cordial. Next door to the room in which the headquarters mess was established lived an old lady who spoke English fluently. She had formerly lived for some years in one of the suburbs of Chicago. The meeting of Chicago soldiers to her was like finding old friends. She insisted upon doing something to show her friendship, which later materialized in the shape of a big apple pie, made by her and presented to the mess. Three of the officers of headquarters were billeted with the assistant burgomaster. His wife's brother is a wholesale florist in Chicago, with a big plant on the outskirts of the city. She volun- teered to furnish breakfasts for the party and insisted that the wine supply at home should be shared with us. Everywhere these experiences were being repeated in one form or another. There was too much fra- ternizing, that was certain, but the American soldier is always ready to meet the vanquished on an amicable footing, and harbors no resentment. They cannot and will not extend their enmity to the women and the chil- dren. In other words, there is no race hatred such as prevails between the different European peoples, which their former rulers would have carried to extermination had they possessed the power. It was also noted GENEK.AL PERSUING— I'KKSI :.\ I A )E MEDALS 33RD DIV., LUXEMBOURG 162 RETURN TO LUXEMBOURG 1918 38K1) I>IV. KKVIKWKli I'.V ..KNKliAl. i'KHSllIXr;. SALUTING THE COLORS OF TUK i;-ilST I.NFAXTHY that the shop keepers did not raise their prices, as had been experienced nearly everywhere else. Chickens, eggs and vegetables appeared to be plentiful at reasonable prices. Rooms were cheerfully given up for the use of soldiei-s with many little things added which testified to their good will. On tlie other hand some French Colonial troops who were there at tlie same time, were forcing their way into homes, taking what- ever they wanted without offering pay in exchange, killing chickens in the yards, and in many cases, deporting themselves in a manner which appeared to impress the natives that they came as conquerors to despoil. The attitude of both sides would indicate that the French and German can never live amicably together in the same vicinity. Race hatred has full possession of both peoples. We were further impressed with the fact that the ordinary people had never been enlightened as to the con- duct of their armies in France, nor would they believe the stories of atrocities, cruelty and robbery with which they were confronted. Gen- erally, their belief as expressed in words, confirmed the idea that what- ever had been done by their armies and higher authorities was for the best interests of the Fatherland. Decemher 16th. Orders came to return to the Luxembourg side of the Moselle river, movement to commence at 8 :30 a. m., the ITtli. That afternoon all units of the 131st Infantry were out of Germany and dis- posed as follows : Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Company, Supply Company and Machine Gun Company at Ehnen, First battalion at Costingen, Second battalion at Wormeldange, Third battalion at Len- ningen. Decemher 20th. Regimental headquarters. Headquarters Company, Supply Company. Second battalion headquarters and Companies E and F marched to Larodiette (Fels), Companies G and H to Heffingen, Third battalion, to Fishbach, except Company K, which was sent to Schoos, machine gun company to Schoos. The First battalion was or- 1918 19 DISTRIBUTION OF UNITS 163 dered to remain in the area they then occupied, from whence they were distributed December 22nd, as follows: Battalion P. C. and Companies B and C (less one platoon) to Arlon, Belgium, to collect and guard German military property in dumps within that area. One platoon, Company B, to Oetrange, guarding railroad property ; Company A, to Wecker to cover certain railroad bridges ; Company D to Steinfort, to guard the steel works at that place and to prevent removal of machinery, etc. Further distribution became neces- sary, due to insufficient billet space. Companies I and K were sent to Godbrange, December 28th ; later Company I moved to Heffingen, Com- pany K, to Nommern; one platoon to Wasserbillig. 1919. Location of all units was as follows : January 25. Regimental headquarters. Headquarters Company, Supply Company, Larochette (Pels). First battalion headquarters and Com])any A, Wecker. One platoon, Manternach. Ten men (guard) Betzdorf. One platoon, Berbourg. Company B, Wecker. One platoon, Wasserbillig. One platoon, Mertret. Company C, Oetrange. Company D, Steinfort. Second battalion headquarters and Companies E and ¥, Larochette. Companies G and H, Medernach. Third battalion headquarters, Companies L and M, P^ishbach. Company I, Heffingen. Company K, Nommern. EMIU'SSIXc; IX LUXEMROUKO FOR THE RAILHEAD 164 SCHOOLS FOR THE SOLDIERS 919 LKAVI.\(; l.rXKMl Machine Gun Company, Sehoos. February 22. Company F, moved to Reuland. February 24. Company B, Wasserbillig. Company C, Gravenmaeher. The ushering- in of the new year marked the beginning of another intensive training program, which lasted until March 1st, at which time some modifications were adopted, taking on school work and athletic games in the afternoon. Once each week some terrain exercise was studied and carried out by division, brigade or regiment. These exer- cises, consisting of certain groups with flags representing organizations taking part, were supervised by umpires and orders were issued in detail covering the entire operation. Following the exercise a critique was held at some central point. Schools were organized for officers and non- commissioned officers in the provisional drill regulations, for soldiers in elementary English, Reading French, Spanish, Arithmetic, Civics, U. S. History, Geography, Higher Mathematics, European History, Business, Economics, Science, Engineering and Agriculture. Large numbers of officers and men were sent to different European universities to take special courses. Major Haines, who was sent to the corps school of musketry, was placed in charge of field firing, principally by platoons, the work consisting of range estimation, target designations, fire distri- bution, application of fire, communications and signals, cover, conduct of fire duties, visual training and fire discipline. All animal transporta- tion of the division was put on a competitive basis, followed by eliminative horse shows by regiments, brigades, division and corps, with appropriate 1919 ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES 165 prizes for winners. These horse shows attracted large crowds of both soldiers and natives, especially when they were held in the larger cities. Two hours daily were devoted to athletics, also on a competitive basis, the winners in boxing, wrestling, football, baseball, track and field events, etc., finally competing for the championship of the A. E. F. These various activities not only kept the men busy all the time, but imbued them with the spirit of competition, the will to strive that the other fellow did not win out unless he was the best man. Some few who came to the regiment from the draft were unable to read or write. In a short time they were writing letters home and before long commenced to have a better opinion of themselves. Not all protited by the athletic or educational features, but the majority did, and there is no doubt whatever that a considerable proportion of the men will be better fitted on their return home to take up the activities of civil life. The 131st Infantry was stationed in Luxembourg much longer than in any other one place during its tour of duty in Europe, therefore a brief sketch of conditions as we saw them is given : The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, lying immediately south of Hol- land and Belgium, formed a small neutral state between northern France and Germany. Its treaty of neutrality was considered by Germany in the same light as that of Belgium, a mere scrap of paper. Unlike Belgium, however, the ruling power of Luxembourg, both pro-German and without strength to resist, consented to German occupation. The inhabitants, as -i/ri/'i-i •■^^m^ HH , \ \ ^ _LJ^ _ , _ THE TRANSPORT KAISERIN AUGUSTA VICTORIA ABOUT TO DOCK W^TH THE RETURNED 131 ST INFANTRY 166 NOTES ON LUXEMBOURG 1919 .\ m:\v vork iiaki'.ok a rule, speak Genuaii, the educated classes both French and Gernuui. The general sentiment of the people appears to be pro-German. All parts of the territory were occupied, the cities crowded with reserve troops. Steel mills and other industrial plants manufactured shells and other munitions of war for the Germans. Thus the people profited greatly by their ac- quiescence in the German demands and made a lot of money out of the war. True, a considerable proportion of these plants were already owned, if not fully, in part by Germans, controlled from Germany and title has not changed, probably, no effort will ever be made to make changes in ownership. The people themselves have lapsed into a state of satisfied affluence and contented existence. The country is not over populated and poverty appears to be rare. Enough is grown on the highly culti- vj^ted fields to furnish all the food required, with some to spare. They are thrifty, like the French, taking quick advantage of the gullibility of strangers, witliout scruples, when it comes to the accumulation of easy money. '■ The settlement of the country dates from very ancient times. It was successively occupied and fought over by the Germans, the Romans arid the Franks. The roads which are always kept in fine repair were originally built by the Romans. Our men, billeted around in the various towns, usually lived with the inhabitants, occupying the spare rooms of the houses. They slept under big feather ticks, furnished by the Luxembourg housewives, warmed 919 PRESENTATION OP DECORATIONS 167 their food on the kitchen stoves, spoke a little German and became a part of the family. Occasionally there was some trouble when the people traded their fiery schnapps for Uncle Sam 's money, but the placing of that particular cafe out of bounds for a time generally brought them around to a realiza- tion of the fact that they were losing money by the operation in the long run. AVhile out of bounds they were losing the profit they might otherwise have been making from the sale of light wine and beer. New changes were made in troop locations after January 25th. Feb- ruary 22nd, Company F moved to Keuland ; February 24th Company B moved to Wasserbillig, and Company C to Grevenmacher. April 8th Company B was billeted in Manternach and Wecker, and Company A was billeted in Menternr.ch and Betzdoi'f. Ain-il 10th Company A moved to Grevenmacher. April 22nd. The entire Division assembled at 1 p. m. on a level piece of ground between Diekirch and Ettelbruck, and at 2 p. m. Gen- eral John J. Pershing, commander in chief of American Expeditionary Forces in France, presented to various officers and other ranks entitled to the same, the American decorations won during the war. The colors of the diff'erent regiments were also decorated with streamers. There was also present General Bethel, of the British army, who presented two medals to members of the 131st Infantry, Crown Prince Leopold of Belgium, the Honorable the Secretary of AVar Newton D. Baker, and several members of Congress. oovp:rnor lowden .vkduessini; the keuiment at camp mill^ 168 NOTICE OF RETURN TO THE U 1919 OL. SAXl'.OKX OEN. DICKSON (!(»V. LOWDIOX April 23rd. Orders were reeeived advising that the 33d Division would move to Brest, Prance, port of embarkation, for return to the United States. The movement of the 131st Infantry by trains was from Mersch, Luxembourg, as follows: 1st Battalion, 2nd Battalion, 30 men, Headquarters Co., April 27th ; 3rd Battalion, Machine Gun Co., April 28 ; Regimental Headquarters, Medical Detachment, Supply Co. and Head- quarters Co., April 29. Last trains completing the movement arrived in Brest, May 3rd. The journey was not particularly pleasant, the men were in freight cars, the officers in French compartment cars, the former without seats, the latter with seats, but no cushions ; all without lights or heat. Time on the road averaged about 80 hours. No one seemed to mind the hardship, however, as they were traveling towards home. In Brest men were examined, bathed and de-loused. Their papers were checked over ; embarkation lists made and every one from the com- manding general down did everything within their power to expedite matters and make it pleasant for the returning soldiers. Nearly a year had elapsed since the first arrival of the regiment in Brest. A vast change had taken place in the meantime. The old barracks, previously occupied, were no longer used, except for warehouses, etc. Troops were quartered in new frame barracks and tents, stretching over a large area, forming a camp, the capacity of which aggregated 75,000 men. There were large buildings devoted to amusements, canteens and offices, also rest houses for officers, conducted by the Red Cross. The camp was a model of efficiency and comfort. 1919 MEDAL PRESENTATIONS AT BREST 169 Two presentations of decorations were held in Brest, one at 10 a. m., the other at 3 :30 p. m., May 7th. The first presentation was made by General Bell and included awards of Distinguished Service Medals, awards of Distinguished Service cross, awards of Croix de Guerre (French), awards of Belgium Decoration Militaire and awards of Bel- gium Croix de Guerre. The second presentation was made by Admiral Moreau, chief admiral of the French navy, and conferred the Legion of Honor and other French decorations and was followed by a reception at the Hotel Continental. Due to delay in returning troop ships from the United States orders were not issued for the embarkation of the regiment until May 12th. The various units were ordered to be at the docks at 9 a. m. ; loading was completed shortly after noon, May 14th ; sailed at 5 :23 p. m., same date. The Kaiserin Agusta Victoria, on which the regiment sailed, was taken over from the Germans, after having laid unused in the docks for upwards of four years. One previous trip had been made to New York with a small number of passengers. Various repairs were made at that time, but the ship had not been cleaned or thoroughly overhauled and was in bad shape. The first three days were spent in cleaning up, after which a large detail was kept on duty from early morning until 10 p. m., sweep- ing decks, picking up paper, matches, etc., and in a general way maintain- ing a state of cleanliness on board. Fortunately the weather w^as fair and very few were sick. There were on board ship in addition to the 131st Infantry, the 66th Brigade Headquarters, 25th Engineers, 108th Field Signal Battalion, 177 nurses, 74 war brides and other women, casuals, also about 250 casual officers. Total list of passengers aggregated 5,500. Ship docked at Long Island City about 9 :30 a. m. May 23rd. Upon debarkation men were given a cup of hot coffee with lunch, after which they boarded Long Island railway trains and were sent to Camp Mills. THE BREAKING UP OP THE 131ST INFANTRY AT CAMP MILLS. COL. SANP.OKN ADDRESSIN(; THE FIRST CONTINGENT TO BE SEPARATED FROM THE REGIMENT 170 ARRIVAL AT CAMP MILLS 1919 VIEW AT CAMP MIIJ.S. NEW YORK The following day lists were prepared, showing the names of men who were to be sent to other camps throughout the United States for dis- charge. Camps so designated were located at points nearest the soldiers' homes. The men who were sent to camps other than Camp Grant were, as a rule, originally sent to the regiment in France as replacements. They took the places of men who were killed, wounded, and sent to hospitals. When they arrived and were assigned to the regiment they were attached to the different units, a few in each company or platoon. By this ar- rangement they came in immediate contact with the older men of the organization ; lived with them and shared all their hardships and pleas- ures. The result was they soon became imbued with the spirit of the organization. When they left for their own homes there were many sad partings and everyone felt that the friendships formed during many months of privation and danger, were friendships which would never be forgotten. Saturday, May 24th, his Excellency Frank 0. Lowden, governor of the state of Illinois, made a flying visit to the camp, and addressing the assembled regiment, expressed his appreciation of the services it had rendered and the glory it had brought to the state. The governor on this occasion must have realized once again that his old regiment still remem- bered him with deep affection. The regiment left Camp Mills for Camp Grant May 31st, reduced to 86 officers and 1,929 men. Transportation was in four train sections, leaving at 7, 8, 9 and 10 o'clock a. m. Destination, Chicago. 1919 EN ROUTE TO CHICAGO 171 1 ^pggflj p MiiiBMl"" l^l||^| 131ST INFANTRY W()l'M)i:i) IX TIIP: HOME ("()MIN(J PARADE June 2nd. During the early mornino' hours all trains bearing mem- bers of the regiment had arrived in the various depots, where each detach- ment was met by an officer representing the committee of arrangements, and directed to march to Grant Park on the lake front, where the entire regiment was to assemble preparatory to the grand parade and review scheduled to start at 11 a. m. In Grant Park thousands of relatives of the officers and men had gathered and it was with difficulty that the lines were established. However, a start was made on schedule time. The regiment swung into cohunn of platoons at Park Row, marching north on Michigan boulevard to Randolph street, thence through the business por- tion of the city, returning to Grant Park, where arms were stacked, after which officers and men were given a fine dinner at the Congress hotel. The parade started with Maj. Gen. Bell leading, ?.nd M^as composed of the following units in the order named : Headquarters 66th Infantry Brigade. 131st Infantry. : 129th Infantry. 108th Train Headquarters and Military Police. 108th Ammunition Train. 108th Supply Train. A stand was located near Congress street, from which Governor Lowden, Major General Bell and other distinguished citizens reviewed the troops. Another stand, occupied by the Mayor and city officials, was located at the Public Library, near Randolph street. A large stand for spectators, occupied by the friends of the regiment, was placed imme- diately south of Park Row on Grant Park and another near the review- 172 EEVIEW IN CHICAGO 1919 ox MIOIIKiAX BOULEVARD JUNE 2ND ing stand. The enthusiasm evidenced on this occasion probably sur- passed anything ever experienced before in Chicago. The various troop trains bearing the soldiers on to Camp Grant commenced leaving at 3 :30 p. m., following at fifteen-minute intervals. Movement was fully completed about 3 a. m., June 3rd. MEN OF THE 131ST INEANTKY PASSINCi THROUCII THE DISCHARGE MILU AT CAMP GRANT 1919 MUSTEEED OUT OF THE SERVICE 173 During June 4th and 5th all of the regiment, except a small detail and certain officers, who took advantage of a 15-days' leave, were mus- tered out of the service. June 6th, at 4 p. m., with all papers cleared the Regimental Commander received his discharge and the 131st Infantry passed into history. THE HOME OF THE REGIMENT— CHICAGO 174 GERMAN 38 CENTIMETER GUN 1918 CHAPTER X NARRATIVES OF COMPANY M, MACHINE GUN COMPANY, MEDICAL DETACHMENT, CAPT. HERMAN H. WEIMER, CAPT. C. M. GALE, LIEUT. FRED. L. RINKLIFF, LIEUT. H. C. DE BRUYN, LIEUT. SAMUEL C. DAVIS, LIEUT. FRANK C. TILLSON, LIEUT. RAYMOND F. FIEDLER, LIEUT. FRANK C. ALBRIGHT, LIEUT. WILLIAM GARY SANGER, JR., LIEUT. HOWARD H. WILLIAMS. SGT. WALTER D. CORNING AND CPL. A. O. TORSET NARRATIVE OF COMPANY M The chronology of events participated in, and the part borne by " M ' ' Company must begin from that time when, with training completed at Camp Logan, it set out towards the accomplishment of its task. Entrained during the forenoon of May 8th the journey commenced. We traveled north during the early hours of the 10th. We rolled quietly into Chicago. Though we had come within the comforting embrace of our home city, we were permitted to remain there but a short time. Our halt served as a reward toJ:hose relatives and friends, who, having by some means learned of our departure from Logan, were on hand to greet us. They had waited throughout the night. Before daybreak our train was moving eastward. The following afternoon we paraded in the city of Cleveland. The policy of detraining and making a short march, once daily, was carried out as an exercise. While this permitted us to be observed, it also afforded us an opportunity to note the sentiment of the people. We were impressed with the consciousness that a martial determination and purpose encom- passed all, the soldier on parade and the civilian looking on. Enthusiasm led some to cheer but more viewed us in silence. Occasionally as our train passed, a woman would be seen waving an apron from the door of a home where a Service flag graced the window. We traveled over the Lehigh Valley Railroad. This course took us through the picturesque valleys of Permsylvania. High in the hills, we alighted at the very pretty town of Wilkes-Barre. We were marched from the town to a park, where rifles were stacked and the men permitted to fall out. After our rather wearisome train ride, the ecstasy of stretching out for a rest on the cool greensward, can be less accurately described than imagined. Quite early on the morning of May loth we arrived at Jersey City, the first lap of journey nearly over. About 10 o 'clock we were in Camp Upton. Our stay at this camp was of eight days' duration. We had been in barracks not more than an hour when the company was formed, and with the battalion, heard an inspiring address by Governor F. O. Lowden. We were enjoined on closing with the enemy to deliver that sturdy punch expected of sons of 'Illinois. This admonition we ever attempted to carry out. Some parts of our overseas equipment were issued here, among them the steel helmet. 175 176 NARRATIVE OF COMPANY M 1918 About 2:30 a. m., May 21st, we left Camp Upton for Hoboken. The train on which we traveled was unlighted in order to attract little notice. From the train we boarded a ferry, which conveyed us to the pier at Hoboken, arriving at 7 a. m. Here the large U. S. S. Leviathan was waiting; on the pier we were given benevolent atten- tion by the American Red Cross, being served hot coffee and buns. Soon the order to go aboard was given, and in single file, the company passed up the gang plank. By 10 o'clock we were all on the ship. For the remainder of that day, and the forenoon of tlie next we watched other troops coming aboard, seemingly a never broken chain; among them a party of nurses. May 22nd the Leviathan put out. Though we were all below deck with the port- holes closed we were aware of it from the tremor through the ship. Having cleared the harbor we were allowed on deck. The sky was overcast. No one showed sign of dejection, but perhaps it is not too much to say that all were inclined to seriously regard the future. Gradually the land faded from view and last of all the Statue of Liberty had sank into the horizon. Our ocean voyage, with the exception of tlie last day, was without event. Our time for the most part was spent on deck; the weather was clear. Every evening we enjoyed entertainment of some sort, motion pictures, minstrels, or the like. Each day at 11 o'clock we had "Abandon Ship" drill. This was to familiarize us with the most expedient manner in which to cjuit the shi|), in case wo were toi-pedoed. We were aboard for eight days. On the last day the German submarines made a determined, though vmsuccessful attempt to get in their work. As they came into view, our ship opened fire and our convoy which had joined us on the previous day drew up in battle formation, about forty shots were fired by Anu'rican craft. It was rumored that three submarines were accounted for, two sunk, and one captured. The spirit and conduct of the men could not escape notice. Their enthusiasm was such that they adopted the ball-ground practice of ' ' rooting ' ' for our gunners. As each shot was fired a lusty cheer went up. We made the port in safety, debarked at 5 o "clock. May iJOth, and at once set out for Camji Shelby, some four miles distant from Brest. Along the way we had our first acquaintance with French people and our first glimpse at French scenery. Reaching camp at 9:30 p. m. we occupied barracks which had been erected long ago to quarter Napoleon's legions. We rested for three days. On the second day of June we again boarded the train for * ' Somewhere in P^'ranee. ' ' Traveling for two days on a French train brought us to the small city of Oisemont, where we were met by a Scottish band and escorted to a resting place on the outskirts of the town, where we ate lunch and rested for a short time. Then we marched a few miles to the village of Frucourt and for the first time entered billets. A billet in France more often than not meant simply a barn in which troops were shel- tered, though it might be any building serving this purpose. Frucourt was situated some thirty miles behind the lines. We remained here from June 4tli until the tenth, the time being largely given up to usual camp duties supplemented by some preliminary instruction on Lee Enfield rifle, this being the weapon used by the British with such telling effect. Compared to our ' ' Springfield ' ' this rifle impressed, us as a rather homely piece. It was, however, essentially a war creation and owed its existence less to its appearance than to its business ability. We had heard much in the United States and since landing of the excitement of aerial encounters and tlie havoc wrought liy Jerry's persistent liombing — on a fore- noon while in Frucouit we first witnessed such an engagement. 918 EAST OF THE MEUSE BIVEE 177 GERMAN TRENCH IN THE F.OIS NATCIIET 178 NARRATIVE OF COMPANY M 1918 The tenth of June found us again on the march in quest of a more suitable train- ing area. We slept that night in the small town of Le Plouey. This town was occu- pied in part by a detachment of Italy's fighting men. Their uniforms seemed a bit more gorgeous than we were accustomed to. Stars and other insignia were pro- fusely scattered over the collar of the tunic. The soldiers have a hiking song which deals with the fatigue of a march some- thing to the effect that it is not the pack you carry on your back that counts, but it is the last long mile. The last mile to Melleville, whither we were bound, was up a hill, it required on the part of each man considerable mental persuasion to put us up there. Still all succeeded and quite soon were billeted in the town. During our eight days at this place we were given attention by British instruc- tors, ofiicers and N. C. O. 's. Gas masks were issued and considerable time given to lectures and demonstrations regarding their use. We were marched out one evening and took a position on the side of a hill. Below us in the valley the British staged various phases of trench warfare, dealing mostly with the principle of the gas attack and the smoke screen. A miniature cloud gas attack was demonstrated as well as the firing of various forms of gas projectiles. On the morning of June 21st we marched four miles, where we loaded on British conveyances, and were transported to Pierregot, arriving at 4 p. m. Those particular lorries on which we traveled were of the double deck variety. They had done duty during peace times as omnibusses in London and other large centers in England. The top-deck was gained by means of a winding stairs at the rear. Having pitched "pup" tents in an orchard we made ourselves as comfortable as circumstances would permit. We were now located some twelve miles behind the British front, in the Albert-Amiens sector. We were in the zone of possible gas attack. Here the continuous rumble and roar of British artillery in action reminded us that we were close to the scene of operations. Our training consisted largely of open order work. Under the supervision of British instructors we took up formations and tactics such as would be required in actual battle. On the eve of June 23rd we moved out of Pierregot and for a period of twenty-four hours occupied reserve trenches in the vicinity of Contay. From our location we could see very distinctly the flashes of the artillery. Before us the sky was illuminated with the variety of flares and signals for which Jerry is famous. Their sigirificance meant little to us beyond that of a grand display. While in Pierregot we spent the night of June 27th digging trenches. We dug from eight at night until four in the morning of June 28th. This trench was later designated as ' ' The Illinois Trench. ' ' The construction of it was carried on to the accompaniment of German aeroplanes buzzing overhead. Occasionally the machine came within the glare of our searchlights which were sweeping the heavens. Then anti-aircraft guns would open fire. This trench system was designed to enable the British to effectively give ground in case of a determined German advance. On the evening of June 29th we again occupied the same system of reserve trenches as before, but at a different sector. This brings us to the bright Sunday afternoon of June 30th. At this time a battalion was made up to take part in operations of July 4th with the Australians "M" Company, required to furnish a detail of 34 men, called for volunteers. This was the first occasion on which any of our men had stood shoulder to shouldei' and ready for battle with those husky overseas warriors of Great Britain, the Aus 1918 NARRATIVE OF COMPANY M 179 traliaiis. Regarding their fame and the friendship which quickly sprang up between the fighters of the two allied nations much might be said. It would seem to have been first intended that our men should go over the top on July 4th, but our men, except in a few isolated cases, did not go over. They were, however, within the battle area and engaged in battle activities. " M " Company sustained two casualties, one fatal, Private Harold Boswell, Private James Barrow- man was seriously wounded. In Pierregot all was not as serene as it might have been. The boche inaugurated a practice of paying us nocturnal aerial visits. The company had been previously instructed to dig in for protection from bombs. With "M" Company on guard we had an experience on the night of June 30th that brought home to us very forcibly the necessity of complying with this to the letter. Jerry made an effective raid and dropped several bombs in our midst which resulted in casualties. These were our first casualties and the first in the regiment. It was at Pierregot that we encountered for the first time the much discussed ally of the Boche, ' ' The Cootie. ' ' It is said of him that he differs from the louse inasmuch as he has military training. Be this as it may we were soon convinced that he was quite capable of making himself thoroughly at home. In spite of the fact that we succeeded in harassing him continually, and ofttimes rendered his situation pre- carious, we doubt our being entirely beyond his reach until after the armistice. Neither are we confident that he ceased operations promptly at eleven o'clock on that memorable day. Our next step in the war was taken on July 23rd. Loading on lorries at five p. m., we were conveyed to Warloy, a small town very near the line, arriving in the evening. At eight o 'clock we moved out and were on our way to the front line. We were to reinforce the British troops, this constituting our first exploit as a company. As we neared the trenches Captain Melvin W. Bridges was wounded and sent to the rear, the command of the company being taken by First Lieutenant James C. Stock- well. By eleven p. m. we were in position with the British, two platoons in the front line and two in the reserve. We were holding the front line known as "The Hairpin Sector,'' just to the left of the city of Albert, which was at that time in possession of the Hun. The territory hereabouts had been the scene of much bitter fighting and showed the scars of war. On our immediate left the front lines of the contending forces were separated by the short distance of forty yards. An approach trench of former days connected the two. Of course it was banked up, Jerry held one end and we had stationed an automatic rifle squad at ours. On the morning of July 25th we found how exciting trench warfare could become. The British, on our right, had planned a raid into Albert, for the purpose of securing prisoners. With a roar the barrage opened. Intermingled with crash of exploding siiells was the rattle of machine guns. Under cover of a smoke screen the British went over. From the German lines flares and signals went up and soon, added to the previous din, was Jerry's reply, his shells exploding in our vicinity. He swept our parapet with machine gun fire. Fortunately our protection was such that we sustained no casualties. Relieved on the night of July 25th we were returned by lorries to Pierregot. >0n August 1st, at 3 p. m., our battalion was ordered to relieve a British battalion before Albert. Company M was assigned to the front line. On the way to the trenches and after entering them we were heavily bombarded. We were in position at 1:30 a. m. We occupied this position imtil August 6th, when we were again 180 NAEEATIVE OF COMPANY M 1918 RUINS OF (TMIERES relieved l^y the British. On leaving the lines we once more came in for attention on the part of Jerry 's artillery. There were two accidental casualties. Officers call sounded at one o'clock p. m., August 8th. For some reason the men instinctively felt that momentous events were impending. They were not deceived. We were ordered to make up light packs, and be in readiness to move out in one hour's time. Just after evening mess the battalion was formed and began the march towards an unknown destination. Starting southeast from Pierregot and continually moving forward we came at 11 o'clock to the evacuated town of Franvillers. A rest here, though short, caused us to be much refreshed. Leaving, we moved on, passing through the town of Heilly. Some distance beyond this on a gradual incline we viewed, for the first time, some of the havoc of battle. Reaching the crest of the ridge we halted and rested. We moved forward and swerving westward went through what remained of Sailly le Sec. Our first and second battalions which preceded us by one day were resting there. About 10 o 'clock we turned into a sheltered valley where a battery of British howitzers was posted. Being aroused at three o'clock we lightened our packs to the extent of removing the slickers and repossessed ourselves of our Lewis rifles. Moving forward at 3:. 30 we were to be at a road junction at four o'clock to receive ammunition. After pass- ing through Sailly le See we came to and traversed Sailly Laurette. This town was demolished and debris of war strewn about; a few dead Germans being in evidence. At five o 'clock we were ordered to reinforce tlie second battalion. Company M fell out to the right of the road, on marshy ground, Ijordering the Somme canal. Here, for the first time, we were a part of and witnessed a battle in progress. Over our heads swept the protecting barrage. On our immediate right German shells were exploding in the Somme canal. Before us, though, screened from view by Malard Wood, lay Chipilly Ridge. This area was being deluged by German artillery and raked by machine gun fire. We could see a part of our second battalion leave the cover of the wood and start over the top. This was about 5:30 p. m. Prisoners and our wounded were soon passing, going to the rear. 1918 NAEEATIVE OF COMPANY M 181 We spent the night of August 9th in this location. About 6 o 'clock on the morn- ing of August 10th we moved to Malard Wood and halted in the valley beyond. It was here that Company M was ordered to reinforce and then relieve Company G. Our company, led by Lieutenant Stockwell, moved uj). About 10 o'clock, following the Bray road in an easterly direction, we crossed the area over which the battle had been fought the afternoon before. While on this road Jerry began shelling, which caused us to take shelter in a shallow ditch by the wayside. This bombardment progressed intermittently for sev- eral hours, resulting in few minor casualties. From this shallow ditch the third and fourth platoons moved on and to the left a distance of about 800 yards. This brought them to Company G's position in advance of Gressaire Wood. The German artillery continued to shell the woods in the rear. At the same time our platoons were sub- jected to harassing fire from machine guns, apparently coming from the vicinity of an abandoned tank on our front. Corporal Seth J. Halper, with an automatic rifle squad of the fourth platoon, was ordered to advance to the tank and deal with the enemy gunners. Enemy fire was such that this mission could not be successfully carried out. All but one of the squad were wounded in the attempt, Corporal Halper and Private Butch fatally. Further to the left an enemy strong point was giving trouble and retarding the 9th Londons in reaching their position on our left. To cope with this situation a patrol, led by Lieutenants Beauvais and Fitzpatrick, set out. Crawling forward from one shell hole to another they reached a location from where they opened a deadly fire and accounted for the German nest. This permitted the British to reach their location. The conduct of the following men was so con- spicuously praiseworthy they were given honorable mention on behalf of the British army: Privates Daniel S. Flagg, William R. Bresin, Stanislaus Budreckis, Arley E. Eakin and Dwight B. Leonard. These men were the proud recipients of the first laurels awarded the company. While directing the fire on the enemy at this time and encouraging the advance of the men Corporal Grist fell mortally wounded. In the meantime, the first and second platoons moved to the right and took up a support position in rear of Gressaire Wood. From this position a small patrol led by Lawrence Westerman, proceeded to the right on the night of August 10th, for the purpose of reconnoitering a new position to be taken up by the company, and the route by which it could be most readily reached. Entering the woods, they were subjected to severe shelling. Private Wargula was instantly killed and Lieutenant Westerman seriously injured. Early on the morning of August 11th the third and fourth platoons being relieved, joined the remainder of the company. From here, at about four a. m., the company moved through the woods in a southerly direction, taking up a position on the top of a ridge overlooking the Somme canal. Here a severe gas shelling resulted in something over thirty gas casualties. A working party on the night of August 15tli, was particularly unfortunate in this respect. While on this ridge the company took its first prisoners, these, two in number, falling to the lot of Private Edward Herter. On August 17th, the first, third and fourth platoons moving through Eitnehcm, advanced to a position on a hill overlooking the town of Bray. The second platoon crossing the Somme took a position further to the right, being heavily shelled in so doing. Acts requiring gallantry and determination had been numerously performed. Because of enemy fire extreme difficulty was experienced in bringing up rations to the company. On August 17th Corporal John J. O'Keefe, fully cognizant of the situation, and disregarding personal danger, volunteered to carry rations to six 182 NAREATIVE OF COMPANY M 1918 machine-gun outposts. In full view of the enemy and amid tire from machine guns and snipers he succeeded in the mission, delivering them their first rations received in twenty-four hours. The following day Mechanic Ladislaus Hoffmann and Corporal Martin Banks volunteered to carry rations to a beleaguered auto-rifle outpost. This post was continually under fire and the rations thus brought up was their first food in a similar period of time. While in the latter position, the only casualty was that of Private Brazit, who was killed by a shell explosion. The company was relieved by the Australians on the night of August 19th. The first, third and fourth platoons moved l)ack and were joined by the second platoon at Malard Wood. Then moving on until 10 a. m., August 20th, we halted near Hamel Wood. The men cleaned their clothing, and equipment, while here the spiral leggins were first issued, replacing those of canvas. Starting about 4:30 p. m., four hours' march brought us to the large field near Aubigny, where we spent the night of August 20th, and the following day we en- joyed a bath in the Somme River and were given a complete change of clothing. We were able to buy chocolate, and replenish our supply of cigarettes; in the evening we resumed our march, and after a hike of several hours, we passed through Poulain- ville, and encamped beyond the town until the night of August 2.3rd. During this time the company was paid. British equipment, used while operating on their sector was exchanged for American. Leaving about 7 o'clock August 23rd, we proceeded to Amiens, arriving on the morning of August 24th. Stacking arms at the depot, we were given an opportunity to see part of this famous city. It had been damaged in places by German artillery, and of course, all civilians had departed. We viewed from the exterior the famous cathedral, and other points of interest. Entraining, we arrived in Ligny on the afternoon of August 25th. On the way we passed through Paris, Epernay and the historic Chateau Thierry. From Ligny we marched to Loisey, arriving at midnight. Our stay of over two weeks in this quaint French town was much enjoyed ; the time was given up to usual routine duties; we were the first American troops to billet here and consequently were shown every consideration by the populace. On September 6th we learned that we were again to move forward. Marching to Troyonville we l)Oarded French trucks and were conveyed to within a short dis- tance of Sirvy Woods, arriving at seven a. m. We occupied barracks situated on a hill in these woods. Again under enemy observation and within artillery range we were obliged to keep under cover. We moved up again on the evening of September 9th to Germonville, which was a short distance behind the front line on the Verdun front. We were in reserve and occupied a large dugout constructed by the French, in the early days of the war. It had two separate floors, the lower one being 30 or 40 feet beneath the ground. The roof of the dugout was well protected with crushed rock. The bunks were arranged in tiers of three. This underground dwelling was large enough to accommodate 300 or more men. We and the cooties were not the only occupants — our abode being shared with rats, rivalling a cat in size. These con- ditions, however, could not be avoided. The dugout was lighted by electricily. . The country round about showed the damage of war. We witnessed here the de- struction of one of our observation balloons by an enemy flyer. In the valleys about blackberries abounded. Our cooks, with these as a basis, prepared many delightful creations. Just outside the dugout an earthen oven was constructed under the super- vision of Mechanics Hoffman and Kofoed. Blackl>erry pies were prepared and other 1918 EAST OF THE MEUSE RIVER 183 (iEKMAX OI'.SKKVATION TOSr, F.OIS r»E CIIATTME 184 XAKEATIVE OF COMPANY M 1918 dishes. Meals were sometimes eaten in tlie open. With the band phiyiujj in tlie valley we appeared far removed from war.^ , Much artillery was seen going forward. On the evening of Bepteniher 20th, the company was lined up and equipment necessary for going over issued, including a limber load of such requisites as signal rockets, panels and ground lights. In addition to the quota of these each man carried a full pack, his ammunition and twenty-four hours' rations. Just before moving out mail from home arrived and being distributed, the men sat about reading it by moonlight. Leaving at 8:30 p. m. we moved up and occupied trenches in the area known as Le Mort Homme (Dead Man's Hill), relieving the 132nd Infantry. Two platoons were in the front line, designated as Babut trench, and two in immediate support in Gilesie trench. Much had been written regarding the war's devastation in this region. Here- abouts tlie Frencli had foiled the Crown Prince, in determined attempts to take Ver- dun, and get through to Paris. The entire area was churned up, and pockmarked with shell holes. Bones, parts of equipment and clothing littered the ground. Looking over the destroyed Bois de Corbois on the left we could picture the grimness of the struggle, waged day after day, and ending in time in a triumph for the French. Be- fore us lay what the Germans doemed an impassable marsh, through which tlowed Forges creek. To render it less passable Jerry had woven a wilderness of barb wire. The Germans on the high ground beyond doubtless felt that they were safe in this quarter. All was ( iii( t. Our men wlu'ii there were no enemy flyers a'jout would leave the trenches and play ball. Just over the crest of a hill in our rear a narrow gauge railway made its way through the valleys. Large parties of men loaerience and observation extending over a period of two mouths in the forward area (British) it became quite obvious that a certain portion of cases should have a radical operation performed in advance of casual clearing station. The M. D. S. begins receiving patients usually, in from four to six hours after the zero hour of an attack. Their condition by this time is such that further trans- portation to casual clearing station would be useless. Consequently a mobile field hospital, it was thought, would greatly increase the scope of the work and serve as a valuable aid where now apparently there was nothing to offer. As a result of these observations, Major Amerson with Sergeant Gallagher and Privates, first class. Holmes, Armano and Kobie were assigned to a newly organized division mobile operating unit. Major Amerson taking charge of the unit in conjunction with his duties as regimental surgeon. The unit was located at Glorieux with division field hospital, and on October 4th was attached under Corps order to the 130th Field Hospital which was designated as "corps non-transportable" and moved forward to the front area locating on the Bethancourt-Forges road, remaining there until October 9th when it was moved to Glorieux. September 11th, Captain Schwald, Sergeant ^McCuHougli and Private, first • class, Kessler were sent on special duty at Germonville at the ambulance collecting post. Here they w^ere on duty until September 22nd when they were assigned to the Second Battalion for services, relieving Lieutenant Bisson who then took charge of the collecting post, assisted by Privates, first class, Lindsay, DeLay and McDavitt and Privates Benefiel and Shaffer. On the night of the 20th of September the Third Battalion moved forward to Bourrus Woods. • The medical detachment unit, with the Third Battalion, consist- ing of First Lieutenant James, Sergeant Hunt, Privates, first class, Ellis, Keane, Klein and Privates Krueger, Beese and Wolk established a temporary aid-station, advancing into the line two days later and locating their aid-station in tlu> vicinity 1918 NAERATIVE OF THE MEDICAL DETACHMENT 199 of Le Mort Homme. The night of the 2:!i(l First Lieutenant Schwald, Privates first class, Turner, Winters, McCullough, Brumleve and Kessler and Private Barton attended the Second Battalion to their location on Le Mort Homme. The next day First Lieutenant James changed his location nearer the aid-station established the night before by Lieutenant Schwald and his men. On the night of September 24th, First Lieutenant Hays, Sergeant Sherlock, Privates Sheehan, Page and Dunphy moved with the First Battalion through Chattancourt into the line to the east of Le Mort Homme. Marching from Delolime Woods, Captain Mangum, Sergeant, first class, Carlson, Sergeants Hopps and Harris, Privates, first class, Backus, Campbell, Randle and Stafford and Privates Kaspar and Shaffer located near regimental headquarters ahead of Chattancourt. The greater part of the 2oth was taken up in becoming well established in the aid-stations and making final arrangements for receiving, dressing, transportation and disposition of the wounded that would come in during the days to follow. At one o'clock of the morning of the 26th, detachments from the various aid- stations accompanied their respective Battalions to the forward trenches and awaited the zero hour which came at .5:30. From that moment on until they were relieved, October 19th, the medical men labored ceaselessly and advanced with their respective Battalions through the marsh, up the hill to Forges wood and on past Drillencourt, thence to the river Meuse, establishing aid-stations wherever and whenever needed. The 8th of October they crossed the river and located in Con- senvoye and established aid-posts in the hills beyond where they stayed until re- lieved, thus completing the forty-two days the division had been under fire. The difiiculties and the strain under which the medical men had to work is evidenced by the large number of patients from various organizations, including men from the SOth Division, French Artillery, transport, engineers, signal men, 132nd Infantrymen and also the enemy, portraying various types of injuries that passed through their hands. The extreme danger they encountered in scouting for and locating new ad- vanced posts under shell-fire and direct observation; the maintaining of liaison with the ambulance company, which was stationed about five kilos to the rear was difficult. The transportation and disposition of wounded proved rather discourag- ing obstacles they were forced to overcome because the stretcher-bearers promised them did not arrive, thus necessitating the disposal of the wounded by prisoners and otherwise to the ambulance post at Bethancourt. The improvisions made and the search for needed supplies instigated when ambulances failed to report resulted finally in using dressings taken from the prisoners and from a captured aid-station. The exceptional work performed by the mobile operating unit; the efficient care of the wounded while in the posts, which included nourishments of various kinds prepared by the men, as well as the dressing of the wounds; the carrying of food and messages under extreme conditions, went far in proving them efficient in their work and of being worthy of the message sent to Lieutenant-Colonel Hathaway, division surgeon, from the chief surgeon, Third Army Corps, which stated: "I desire to express to you my pleasure in having observed the very efficient system of medical aid which you and your assistants have rendered in the Thirty-third Division during this action." During this engagement two officers and two men of the medical detachment were evacuated sick, one man gassed and one man wounded by high-explosive. ' On the night of the 19th the regiment was relieved and was ordered to pro- ceed to the St. Mihiel salient by way of Baleicourt and Souilly to Woimbey, arriv- ing there on the 23rd at 9 p. m. Here they spent thirteen days in rest and recupera- 200 NARRATIVE OF THE MEDICAL DETACHMENT 1918 tion aside from their routine work, dental work being performed here as it was at Delolime wood during the recent engagement. It was while at this place that the first men were permitted to go on leave to Aix les Bains. On the 28th the Third Battalion mo/ed into the Troyon sector where they were joined on November 6th by the rest of the regiment. On the 8th the Second Bat- talion advanced into Wadenville. The medical men, consisting of First Lieutenant Geehan, Privates, first class, Brumleve and Lindsay and Privates Krueger and Grimley established an aid-station in the basement of a shattered house in the town. The First Battalion was located at Woel with the medical corps men con- sisting of First Lieutenant Pease, Sergeant Sherlock, Privates, first class, Backus and Labich and Privates Page, Plainer, Bova, Cioroionu and Nicola located an aid- station in a chateau. The Third Battalion and headquarters units of the corps, consisting of Captains Mangum and Bisson, Sergeant Gallagher, Acting Sergeant McCullough, W. B., Privates, first class, Ellis, Beard, Armano, Holmes and Nichols and Privates Beese and Wolk, established their post in the outskirts of Doncourt in the smelly basement which, however, was the best to be had, of an old shell racked building formerly used by the enemy as an observation tower, overlooking the plains of Woel. During the ensuing days until an hour or so after the memor able eleventh month, eleventh day and ele/enth hour had arrived, the several de- tachments were somewhat busy with the incoming wounded and no little dismayed by the exceedingly close proximity of the enemy, that last long night of the tenth. Speedy evacuation to Avillers was accomplished from all along the line due to the arrival of ambulances on time. The corps men worked with their usual loyalty in administering to about a hundred-twenty-five of our men, together with many from the machine gun battalions, transport and the enemy. Prior to the arrival of the first ambulance prisoners on their way to the rear were impressed into service to carry stretcher cases from the aid-stations to the evacuation post. Difficulties in this engagement were met and taken care of with the same dis- patch as in the previous ones. The space for aid-stations available were, for the most part, close, dark basements under shattered stone buildings. This was es- pecially so in the cases of both Doncourt and St. Hilaire. But a few men could be attended in them at a time thus necessitating the use, under direct observation, of any description of shelter at hand. The enemy were not far oE with their machine guns and the area was being almost continuously shelled. However, dressings were plentiful and the evacuation facilities, while not ideal, were sufficient; conse- quently the receiving, dressing, transportation and disposition of wounded were very efficiently taken care of. By evening of the ele\'enth the regiment was re- lieved and subsequently reported back to their battalion billeting areas. From November 11th to December 7th, while awaiting assignment to either the Army of occupation or back area duties, the medical corps was engaged in their usual camp routine of the care of sick, dental care of the regiment, general cleaning and replenishing of equipment of entire personnel, resuming courses of training and meeting and clearing up conditions of sanitation which included various inspections, installing proper drains, establishing projjer bath and delousing facilities and re- moval of debris occasioned hy the wreckage of the buildings in the Battalion areas. The French occupied Alsace-Lorraine placing a small force in the city of Metz. The formal occupation of these provinces was celebrated on the 8th of De- cember by a review before the president of the republic of France in the Plaza de la Republique in Metz on which occasion were represented, Battalions of the famous fighting division of Franco, including infantry, cavalry, artillery, tanks and ar- 1918 XAHRATIVK OF f'APT. HERMAN H. WEIMER 201 mored cars. The governor general made special request to the French government that American troops should be asked to participate, sending for that purpose a picked Battalion from some fighting regiment which had seen service with the French. The 131st Infantry was selected to represent the American Forces in France. Leaving with this Battalion on December 4th were Captains Mangum and Pease, First Lieutenant Purcell, Sergeant Gallagher, Privates, first class, Holmes, Rowell, Doyle, Backus, Lindsay and Kessler and Privates Beese, Benefiel, Page, Shaffer and Wolk of the Medical department. These men later rejoined the Corps at Mercy le Haute while on the way to the area of occupation. On the 7th of December the regiment began its march forward toward their assigned position in Luxembourg by way of Mars la Tour in France, Aumetz in Lorraine, Esch in Luxembourg, going to Saarbourg, Germany for a period of two days then back into Luxembourg to Ehnen on the Mozelle and thence into the vicinity of Larochette where they arrived December 21st. The purpose of the regiment here was guard duty, consequently it was divided into fifteen units and stationed throughout the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The medical department on this eleven days' march were busily concerned with the general health of the men, holding regular sick call, inspecting billets, kitchens and feet. And, on different occasions, personally superintending the repair and fitting of shoes, helping along in the march those who were too ill or still weakened as result of their recent return from hospital and unable to otherwise keep up with the regiment and evacuating to hospitals those who became seriously ill en route. Upon their arrival at their destination detachments of the corps were stationed with each of the fifteen units of the regiment throughout Luxembourg. They assumed the usual care of the troops, caring for the sanitation of the respective areas, re- suming dental work, inspections and training schedule. In reviewing the conclusive evidence put forth here and elsewhere it may at once be seen that the medical department of the 131st Infantry performed their duties in an eflScient and heroic manner. Observations made by officials in com- mand of Australian, British and French as well as American Divisions with which they have labored, commending their efforts, toils and self-sacrifices in such a noble cause is, in a great measure, sufficient recompense; but, far and beyond this, is the assurance of a work well performed, a hazardous duty accomplished and the knowl- edge of having participated with the best of humanity in living up to and safeguard- ing a sacred ideal. NARRATIVE OF CAPTAIN HERMAN H. WEIMER HAMEL It was over — that first fight — but it made an impression on us so that for a day we lived as men who had seen another world — and we had. Our senses fairly reeled with the experiences that had been crowded into those few days. We had been making history, because for the first time in history the troops of America and the troops of the British Empire fought side by side against a common foe, and we were glad that it had been our privilege to gain this victory for world freedom on our own Independence day. We had heard the shriek of exploding shrapnel, the whistle and clatter of machine gun fire. We had seen the thousand sights of a bloody battlefield, some of which we would be glad to forget. And we realized too that under the little crosses we made from ammunition boxes, lay all that was mortal of some of our comrades. ^02 NAKKATIVE OF CAPT. HERMAN H. WEIMEK 1918 CHIPILLY The first intimation of what was coming was given us when we were suddenly shifted from the road through a valley which was being heavily shelled by the en- emy. We lined up on the ridge and at 5:30 our barrage dropped and we advanced. In this battle we sustained very heavy losses, as the enemy's position was almost impregnable and very difficult of access. Climbing the bullet-swept slopes was a husky job for a man in perfect health under normal conditions, but for the troops who stormed these slopes, tired tho they were, it was a wonderful feat of physical prowess. While some of the company were fighting along Chipilly ridge, and along the Bray-Corbie Road, digging at night, every hour busily engaged, some 28 of their comrades were witnessing an event pregnant with historic interest. For the first time a monarch of a foreign power, once the nation's bitterest enemy, was be- stowing decorations upon certain American soldiers who had fought side by side with the troops of the British Empire, and whose deeds of valor were such as not only to evoke the highest praise, but to cause the King of England himself to present these. symbols of courage to these troops. Ten men of E company were thus rewarded. The ceremony of presentation was witnessed by our Commander-in-chief, Gen- eral John J. Pershing, our division commander, Major General Bell, and other dis- tinguished American and British General Officers and their staffs. The contingent of ceremonial troops immediately went up to the line and were a welcome rein- forcement. LE MORT HOMME The latter part of Septenil)er tlie company was located in Bois de Bourriis near Forts Bourrus and Marre. These forts were part of the chain of forts constituting the defenses of Verdun. The entire battalion was billeted in a huge dugout, lighted by electricity. The time was sj^ent in reconnoitering the reserve line and in practicing with automatic rifles, grenades, etc. Jerry's aeroplanes were considerably active and after seeing us at drill, his batteries thumped away at us every night. While we were in this position, the battle of St. Mihiel was fought, and although our division was designated as part of the reserve for this action, we were not used. In a few days such things as pyrotechnics, panels, etc., commenced to arrive with the rations and we got a hunch that there was another hop over coming. We seemed to sense that this was to be a " big stunt ' ' and were confident because we knew that being a big stunt it would be well planned. The march from the reserve line at Bois de Bourrus was made under very ad- verse weather conditions. A jjenetrating cold wind was blowing and would bring with it occasional gusts of rain that soaked and chilled us. Winding in and out of the train of caissons, artillery pieces, camions and trucks, we finally reached a shattered support trench on Le Mort Homme. This trench was knee-deep in mud and the soil had been churned so often that it had no consistency, and it was im- possible to dig shelves upon which to place equipment. During the following day we moved up and had a better trench; also a better view of our surroundings. On the left in the Bois de Corbeaux (which literally translated means Ravens- wood) only a few cracked stumps remained of what had once been a magnificent forest. The tortured slopes of Dead Man's hill had the appearance of having been ground to powder and the entire surface of the hill was covered by pock marks — - 1918 NAKKATIVK OF OAPT. HERMAN H. Wfc:iMKK 203 shell holes connecting with eacli other on all sides. One single stone is all that is left of the village of Cumieres, there being absolutely nothing to indicate that a village vi^as ever there, as the entire surroundings had been shattered and blasted off the earth during four years of violent bombardment. Those few days on Le Mort Homme were busy days, indeed, as we were draw- ing extra ammunition, bombs, pyrotechnics, etc., as well as observing usual trench routine. A German raiding party was frustrated in an attempt on a portion of the front line trench. They were met with a hot fire of everything that could be fired, one signaller firing his Very pistol point blank, much to the delight of his com- rades, who appreciated the stupefaction of the enemy at this unique use of signal lights. While we were preparing, our artillery was being placed in position and every- thing made ready for the big show. The position of the enemy was excellent, so much so that he had been able to withstand the heaviest attacks delivered by the French who had fought so desperately to oust him. Forges Creek and a swamp were part of his accessory defenses, and a maze of barbed wire in front of his trenches strengthened the position tremendously. Our artillery barrage commenced at 12:30 a. m. September 26th, at first only long range guns firing but gradually increasing in intensity. We had crouched in the hop-off trench all night long — if Jerry had used wisdom he could have dropped a barrage on this trench which would have placed all of us on the casualty list. Jerry chose to be considerate, and at 5:30 a. m. we climbed over, found the paths which our working party had cut through our wive and advanced in the bright moon-light across "Nobody-land" until we reached the swamp. The First Gas- Regiment furnished a smoke-screen under cover of which we crossed the swamp and reached the take-off line. The barrage was furnished by French "75's" and one large naval gun, whose peculiar metallic clang was a welcome sound, because it kept going in front of us at regular intervals. Every time a naval shell exploded some doughboy would sing out, " Atta boy gob, bust 'em open." A seven kilo- meter advance was made and the final objective attained before schedule time. Many prisoners, machine guns, field pieces, etc., were captured during this en- gagement. Arrived at the final objective, digging in commenced on a line along the west bank of the Meuse river. The boys commenced this job without undue haste, but w-hen a battery of enemy whiz-bangs opened fire and came oh so close, the trenches were dug in record time. Because of the rapidity of tlie advance, our transport failed to appear with rations, and for three days we subsisted on Jerry rations — " Kannod Wilhelm " the boys called it. Throughout the advance, our aeroplanes carefully watched and guided our assaulting waves. On one occasion, when the barrage had become a little ragged and lost its intensity and there was danger of the troops running into it, the planes buzzed back and in a few seconds the barrage had again lifted and thickened. Signal liaison between the planes and the assaulting waves operated perfectly, which prompted one of the men to remark "All of my life I have heard about guardian angels, but this is tlie first time I have ever seen one." Eleven days were put in in the support line, during which time w^e changed positions twice, at much exi)ense of temper, each move bringing us to a more un- satisfactory place as regards living conditions. The construction of bivouacs and other work necessary to make the trench habitable had to be done at night and no sooner was it under wav when onlers were received to dig a new line of resistance. 204 NAERATIVE OF CAPT. HERMAN H. WEIMEH 1918 Succeeding nights were spent on this work — cold, miserable nights, under gas and shell fire. On the morning of October 8th after receiving word of a coming hop and spend- ing the preceding night in securing ammunition and such other supplies as were available, we advanced and took shelter in the front edge of Forges Woods, await- ing word as to what time we were to go over. EAST BANK OF THE MEUSE All day we waited until at four o'clock we received word that the engineers had finally succeeded in throwing a narrow bridge across the Meuse river about 800 yards down stream from the town of Consenvoye. Constant exposure to cold, rainy weather, living for six w^eeks in fox-holes and mud bivouacs on insufficient rations, the boys were not in the best condition for the coming fight; however, the sight of the 132nd Infantry advancing inspired the men with the desire to help them get there, and they crossed the Meuse under heavy shell-fire and advanced steadily to a point about two kilometers east of Consenvoye, advancing beyond the normal objective. The advance to this point had been ac complished without any casualties. Trenches were dug during the night, more ammunition brought up, patrols sent out and on the following morning the three battalions covering a front of nearly five kilometers advanced under an exceedingly thin and very erratic barrage, which we would have gladly dispensed with. The advance continued until the enemy main line of resistance w^as encountered, and here there developed some of the fiercest and hardest-fought contests of the war. The next morning additional troops arrived and carried the final objective. The enemy fiercely disputed our possession of the new line and continually harrassed the line with heavy shelling, gas, and bombing by aeroplanes. It was, therefore, with a deep feeling of gratitude that we noticed the sky darkened by a fleet of about 180 allied aeroplanes and we rejoiced that soon Jerry would be get- ting his. We listened intently for the noise of exploding bombs, but were amazed to see our aerial fleet winging back — they had dropped propaganda over the enemy lines. If this effort on their part discouraged the enemy half as much as it dis- couraged us, no doubt it was a successful venture. In retaliation Jerry's planes came over again, but they dropped iron-bound propaganda which tore holes in the ground ten feet in diameter. Relief came on the night of October 14th and we recrossed the Meuse and took up a position in reserv^e from which we were relieved by French troops and started the march back to what we supposed was to be a good long rest. Two nights and two days of marching ensued. The men were dazed with exhaustion when they finally arrived at Camp Gibraltar, where they rested for one day, drilled one day and on the following day again marched toward the lines, this time to a quiet sector. W^hile halting for supper, just outside of Laeroix, two colored troopers laden with huge packs ambled past; in response to the query "Hey smudge, where you all goin', " they stated: "We's gwine to 'ad the line, we is" and passed down the road toward the front. Shortly thereafter the guns commenced the opening num- ber of the regular evening hymn of hate on the distant front and we were amazed to see the two darkies streaking back along the road. Again the query "Where you all goin', blue skin?" But the answer this time was " Nevah mind, where we's goin' — we was goin' de wrong way!" 1918 NARRATIVE OF CAPT. C. M. GALE 205 A long fliilly hike brought us into Chaillon wliere we billeted for the night and the next day relieved the French in the new sector which, as previously re- marked was very quiet. One of the French soldiers attempted to explain the situa- tion in this way: * ' Secteur tranquil: la guerre tres jolie: entre soldat Americaine: la guerre comme ca: Boom Boom, toute de suite." This much of the French lan- guage together with many impressive gestures illustrated conditions and we got the idea pretty well. The Frenchman proved to be possessed of prophetic vision, altho the "boom boom" did not start immediately. In fact, we were surprised by being relieved after two days, when we proceeded to Deuxnouds and found billets on the hillside. Our numbers were very small and we received a replacement of ninety-one men. We were again ordered to the line and after two days of support line duty we relieved F company on the outpost line at Wadonville. This outpost covered a front of nearly three kilometers and was held down by one officer and ninety-seven men. The balance of the company had been left in the support line for use in raiding parties. The next morning the "boom boom" started with a vengeance. In addition to regular outpost duty we were busy night and day furnishing covering parties for machine guns for raiding parties and patrols, not only from our own regiment, but from the 130th as well. This activity drew a con- stant and severe shelling with heavy stuff and on the night of November 9th the strongest gas concentration we had ever witnessed was dropped on Wadonville and the right section zone of patrols near Doneourt with the result that a number had to be evacuated badly gassed, altho the remainder stuck to their posts. On the tenth, F Company occupied St. Hilaire, but it was necessary to maintain outpost line to prevent possible enemy attempt to flank the town. The morning of the eleventh found us still holding the outpost line, while F Company attacked Butgne- ville and it was a thoroughly exhausted E company that received the news of the armistice at 11:00 o'clock. In the meantime the troops that had been left in the support line had participated in one raid after another, also in the attack of No- vember 10th and 11th. NARRATIVE OF CAPT. C. M. GALE OF COMPANY C ACTION OF OCT. 10, 1918 About the middle of the afternoon, October 9th, 1918, I received orders from the Battalion commander to move my company, which was at that time located in dugouts in the west end of the Bois de Forges to the east bank of the Mouse and occupy a section of Balis trench about a kilo directly north of Brabrant. We moved out at once by platoons and completed the occupation of designated trenches about dark. The crossing of the flat of the Mouse river was accomplished within plain view of the enemy and under his constant shell fire. In moving up the ravine south of Consenvoye we received considerable shelling by whiz-bangs from the Bois de Brabrant. The movement was accomplished however without casualties. About midnight I received orders to report to the Regimental P. C. where brief instructions were issued to battalions and company commanders, concerning the action about to be taken. From Regimental P. C. the battalion commander took the company commanders of the 1st Battalion to the P. C. of Company "A" in Hercalae trench where instructions to effect as follows were issued, these instructions being based upon the typed regimental order: Companies will move via Consenvoye and the Consenvoye-Etraye road and take up a position in rear of Cable trench occu- pied by the companies of the 1.32nd Infantry — Battalion front will extend from 206 NARRATIVE OF ('APT. C. M. GALE 1918 ii -; %r%'' I 'i^S' v('^^^^k?^'(W'V'i^>?., iKR^MAX MACITINP: OT'X post. r.OTS 1»K CIIAT'MK Grid 23 to Grid 24. The attack will start at (i:l() a. in. when the battalion will leap frog the 132nd Infantry and advance due north thru Bois Plat Chene. The final ob- jective was stated as a meandering line running east from Sivry following in general the Sivry-Reville road. Disposition of the Battalion for the attack was directed as follows: Assaulting companies, right half of battalion front, Company "D" left half Company " A " ; supporting companies to follow assaulting companies at about 500 meters. Company " B " in rear of Com2:)any " D " and Company "C" in rear of Company "A". The 3rd Battalion, 131st Infantry was to advance abreast of us on our left through Bois de Chaume and the 115th Infantry of the 29th Division, abreast of us on our right. Upon my suggestion that we could save a two to three kilometers march over congested roads and thru the constantly shelled village of Consenvoye-Etraye road, I was advised that we would have to move thru Consen- voye as that was so ordered by higher authorities; also that we would pick up guides at Consenvoye. Had this additional marching not been required our bat- talion could have been in position an hour sooner, and in much better condition than they were. No guides were found at Consenvoye. We arrived in our positions in rear of Cable trench shortly after daylight and but a few minutes before the time set for the movement forward. No guides or other assistance of any kind were given the companies, each company having to locate itself wholly through its own efforts and by aid of the map. After allowing the assaulting companies a lead of 500 meters Company "C" with Company "B-" on the right started the advance, moving at the rate of march prescribed. We found the woods much more dense and impassable than the niap seemed to show, paths, roads, etc., all ran toward the northwest, making it very difficult to keep the advance headed in a northerly direction. The density of the woods was so great that it was with great difficulty that the four platoons of the 1918 NAERATIVE OF CAPT. C. M. ({ALE 20T eompauy were able to keep in touch with one another. During tlieir advance through the woods no contact was had with any other troops. Company "B" on our right, Company "A" to our left, or the 3rd battalion to our left. Considerable machine gun fire was encountered to our right and right front during our advance through the woods, but this seemed to come from rather long range and no casualties resulted, nor did it delay in any way our advance. Upon arriving at the north edge of the Bois Plat Chene, with our right resting on the ravine Du Plat-Chene, I found Capt. Wilson with one platoon of "A" company. The edge of the woods at this point was being rather heavily machine gunned from the orchard and small woods on the opposite side of the ravine and from the top of the hill. The entire ravine and woods were being heavily shelled from the north and northeast. The hill on the opposite side of the ravine contained quite a number of Germans in a seemingly disorganized condition. At this point I gave our 4th platoon to Capt.. Wilson, thus giving him two platoons, so we could continue the advance in the original formation. I also sent Lt. Rinkliff to the right to locate Companies "D" and "B." Capt. Wilson crossed the valley under the covering of fire of our remain- ing three platoons and occupied a position on the edge of the hill just west of the small woods to the south of Magenta Farm. I joined him on this line with our other three platoons a few moments later. While this position had cover from fire from the front, it was entirely open to a steady stream of fire from the woods about a kilometer to the east, as well as from the entrenched position a few hun- dred yards east of Magenta Farm. Companies "B" or " D, " as well as the other three platoons of Company "A" were not in evidence, nor was there any sign of' any other friendly troops whatever on our right. The northeast corner of the Bois Plat Chene was swarming with the enemy. As our right was entirely open, and as the battalion commander was not present, I directed Capt. Wilson to take up a position with the platoon which he had with him, facing east in the small woods. This he did, advancing to a position on the road running south from Magenta Farm, with his left resting on the north edge of the woods. Company "C" advanced by individual men to the brow of the hill and occupied positions in shell holes slightly south of the St. Pantaleon-Magenta Fai-m road. Company headquarters was established in the northwest corner of the little woods south of Magenta Farm. A number of prisoners were captured wheih taking up this position and were utilized in carrying back wounded. During the whole morning this hill was under a constant hail of machine gun fire, as well as fire from heavy minenwerfers from the northeast. Most of our casualties, how- ever, came from individual machine gun sniping from points in the woods to our right rear. We were also subjected to incessant machine gun fire from enemy aeroplanes, which were very active.. No friendly plane appeared till nearly noon, and at no time at all were our planes active. About 10 a. m. I received a machine gun bullet in my right forefinger, which left me in such a condition that I felt that 1 could be of little further use on the line. I therefore turned my map and orders over to Lt. Horton, who was the only oflEieer I had, Lt. Rinkliff not having yet returned from his reconnaissance. Before I was able to leave for the dressing station Lt. Horton had been shot thru the leg, though he was still able to carry on. This, of course, necessitated my remaining. About a half hour later Lt. Horton received another, a shot in the head, which left him unconscious and from which he died late in the afternoon. I was not able to recover my maps and orders from him -and was forced to go through the rest of the operation without maps, all other maps extending only as far north as a point about a kilometer to our rear. About 11 a. m. Lt. Rinkliff reported back from his reconnaissance, stating that: 208 NAKKATIVE OF LIEUT. FliEJJ L. EINKLIFF 1918 he had not been able to locate cither "D" or "B" companies or any elements of the 29th Division. He also reported the fact that the entire northeast portion of Bois Plat-Chene was occupied by the enemy in considerable force. On the tip of the hill to our left we were in contact with a combat group of Company M, and the valley to our left rear seemed to be swarming with our troops. As Lt. Einkliff reported shortly after Lt. Horton had been mortally wounded, I directed him to take over Lt. Horton 's command of the front line. He, however, was wounded by a bullet through the leg while moving forward, which left him so that he could not stand or walk. During the entire morning there was no time at which we did not have sev^eral wounded who could not walk waiting to be taken to the rear. Our own litters were soon all gone. The more serious cases thereafter were sent to the rear on improvised litters, I being unable to procure any more from the rear. The sending of the wounded back depleted our already small force so that our line was extremely thin. The company was holding a front of about 600 meters. Shortly after noon a supporting battalion came up, and at my suggestion took up a position facing east on the right of the platoon of Company "A." My idea and desire was for them to continue advancing east, clearing out the enemy, who were firing at us from the north edge of the woods. This, however, they did not do, contenting themselves with forming a line abreast of Capt. Wilson's platoon. This, however, gave us a feeling of much greater security, as we were sure that our right rear was taken care of. Our bat- talion commander came up with this supporting battalion and established a P. C at the north edge of Bois Plat-Chene at about Grid 23 about noon. I learned that Companies "D" and "B," as well as the other three platoons of Company "A," were in the ra/ine with the third battalion about a kilo to our left. During the afternoon I sent several requests to the battalion commander to move these com- panies into our own area, thus re-enforcing Company " C " and the one platoon of Company "A." This, however, was not done. About dusk the enemy laid down a severe strafing on our front line, and there was considerable movement along the sunken roads and trenches to our front and right front, every indication point- ing to a counter attack. I directed that the heaviest possible fire be directed at any and all movements in the enemy's line. No counter attack, however, developed. Shortly after dark a machine gun captain came up, stating he had a machine gun company, and asking if there was anything he could do. I took quick advan- tage of his offer, and he disposed of his guns along our entire company front. This gave me a feeling of security, and as my hand was becoming very painful I requested Capt. Wilson to give me Lt. Belt to take command of Company "C." This he did, giving not only Lt. Belt but Lt. Belt's platoon, which was put in to re-enforce our line. I left for the rear a couple of hours after dark, getting back to the 132nd First Aid Station at Consenvoye about 4 a. m. next morning. NAERATIVE OF FIEST LIEUTENANT FRED L. RINKLIFF. THE HAMEL ACTION. On the evening of June 30 Company C, less various sick men, together with Company E, proceeded to Allonville, preparatory to joining the Australians for their Fourth of July attack. That night Pierregot was heavily bombed by aero- planes. The following day at 10:30 the remainder of C company men, who were attached to D company, were directed to proceed to Allonville and join their former outfits, arriving there that evening. The next morning I was directed to report 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. FRED L. RINKLIFF 209 with my platoon to A company of the Forty-second Australian Battalion, com- manded by Capt. Warry, where we were given instructions relativ^e to the plan of attack, the same being later worked out in detail, following which the Australian adjutant assembled all officers and men of that battalion, and by aid of a black- board gave an illustrated lecture of the plan of attack. The next day the outfit was issued grenades and ammunition prei^aratory to proceeding to the front. We left AUonville shortly after midday and about 3 p. m. that afternoon we camped along the Somne river for a few hours' rest, and later moving on to the town of Bouzencourt, between which place and the town of Corbie we were to occupy a position in the front line trenches, the relief of which was completed about 2:30 a. m. the morning of July 3rd. Shortly following this the Australian stretcher bearers carried back an Aussie, who had been wounded by a grenade while on patrol, and some time during the day an Aussie adjutant and Major Cheney were both struck by exploding shrapnel, killing the adjutant and seriously wounded the major. Our orders were to vacate the trenches at 1 a. m. and proceed to the tape, preparatory to attacking. Previous to our departure the men were gi/en a hot meal and supplied with forty-eight hours* dry rations. They carried in addition to other equipment either a pick-axe or shovel. We arrived at our position on the tape at 3 a. m. and found that many troops had already taken up a position along their respective fronts. The enemy evidently did not anticipate an attack in view of the fact that omy an occasional burst of machine gun fire was heard, this being more for effect; his patrols returning reported all clear, and as further evidence that no German patrols were operating on our front at the time he persisted in firing illuminating rockets at irregular intervals. The barrage was to fall at 3:10 a. m. During the evening word was sent from brigade headquarters that platoon and company com- manders would be held responsible for the losses in their platoons, due to the fact of getting their men too close to the barrage, as the eighteen-pounders up to this time had not registered accurately on the barrage line. This brought forth a sur- prising incident in that when the barrage fell it had been figured so accurately that it was almost a straight line of bursting shells a hundred yards in advance; "155's" playing on the trenches, with the heavies playing the back areas. The barrage was to move at the rate of 100 yards every four minutes for the first thirty-six minutes, following which it was to play for ten minutes on the front line. About this time the tanks, which were to precede the attacking troops, passed through our lines, proceeding to wipe out strong points. The attack at this point had advanced 1,000 yards and was just starting to ascend a rolling slope on top of which a German outpost was located, slightly in rear of which was an old well-organized trench position, used by the French in 1914 and which at this time was again held by the German troops. The advance was very steady and unfaltering, and as we started to ascend the slope the first German prisoners, nine in number, came down ov^er the bank to surrender. The wire entanglements which were encountered in this vicinity were in places blown to pieces by shell fire or mashed down by tanks, making passage easy. The sector of trench assigned to A company of the 42nd Bat- talion was taken over without any difficulty. The few Germans who were left unwounded either came over and surrendered or beat a hasty retreat in the haze which at the time was hanging over the surrounding country. The position of A company of Australians in the attack was first and second platoons in the attacking waves, followed at fifteen yards by Lewis gun squads. Following Lewis gun squads at twenty-five yards was the third platoon of Aus- tralians, first pl.'itoon of Company C, both of which were in line of combat groups. Sift. VvS 210 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. FRED L. RINKLIFF 1918 Upon reaching our objei-tive the Australian platoon on left of the attacking waves was to advance 200 yards in front of our first line of resistance, taking up outpost positions. While the third Australian platoon, which until this time was advancing in support abreast of Company C platoon, was to jjlace itself in line with the remaining platoon that formed the attacking wave, while the C company platoon was to take an immediate support position about 100 yards in rear of and over- looking the front line jiositions. Two hundred yards in the rear the support troops were to take position. The enemy artillery must have been disorganized, as no harassing fire was laid upon the trench positions we were constructing until they were almost com- pleted, or about 9 a. m., when he began to occasionally harass our positions with whizbangs. At this time the enemy was visible. About 2 o'clock in the afternoon our artillery laid a heavy barrage on his back areas. We w^ere informed later that it was the result of information handed in by observers, that beyond the hill he was massing considerable numbers for a counter-attack, which evidently was broken up, for the attack did not materialize. The aeroplanes were very active throughout the morning except aliout l():3ii a. m., wlien a consideraljle nunilier of German planes were flying about. Later on one of our aeroplanes flying too hiw over our trenches came within the arc described by our artillery fire, with the result that the top of the plane was struck by one of our shells and cut in half, the plane collapsing like a closing book and describing circles in an effort to land safely, but when about 200 feet from the ground the aviator lost control and the plane fell to the ground in a heaj). A little later another of our planes was shot down. The eight tanks which assisted in our attack were also loaded witii surplus ammunition, which they left behind when they retired to the rear. Also through- out the day planes l)rought up ammunition and dropped it to us by means of para- chutes. About 10:3(1 j). m. a considerable fire opened up on our right. Not know- ing the situation and seeing an S. (). S. go up, which was evidently responded to by our artillery with a heavy barrage, our troops opened up with a very general fire, which lasted for about ten minutes, but gradually died down. Later on a patrol was sent out and brought back the information that everything was quiet. Next day passed very quietly, there simply being an occasional harassing fire. The Germans today were visible to our right and left in the woods along the Somme about 1,200 yards in advance of our line. Evidently an outpost was located there. The following night patrols were sent out as usual, but reported all quiet. Nothing unusual happened. The following day passed about the same as the pre- vious day, with everything quiet. The rations on this particular occasion were very capably liamlle 1. The forty- eight-hour ration which we were told would have to suffice during the time we were to hold the line proved to be extra rations, for each night ration-carrying parties brought us up a hot meal with two dry rations for the next day, as well as an ample supply of water. That evening we were sent word that relief would arrive at 10:30 that night. Guides were sent back, and as scheduled the relief was on time. The positions were taken over by relieving troops in a very easy manner, each platoon on completion of the relief having orders to report back separately to Bouzencourt, where C company platoons were once more to rejoin the remainder of the company. Arriving at the designated point I was not able to locate the entire company, and together with Lieut. Heyl and his platoon we proceeded to retrace our steps along the Somme to Daours, where we met the remainder of the company the next morning. We arrived about fi:30 a. m. after a very tiresome 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. FRED L. RINKLIFF 211 march and were a few minutes later met by the remainder of the company, where trnclvs were waiting' to take us back to Pierregot. THE CHIPILLY ACTION. During the nights of the fifth and sixth of August considerable numbers of British troops were seen moving forward along the various roads toward the Picardy front. The impression prevailed that an offensive was about to begin, at the same time artillery movement in various directions was very active. On the night of August 7th the First Battalion, 131st Infantry, moved for- ward to Baizieux sector for what was supposed at that time to be a four-day period of training in reserve trenches. Intrenching tools were left behind, as we were told at that time that they would not be needed. The battalion arrived at its sector about 1:30 a. m., taking up positions extending from Laveville Hennencourt road to the left in the direction of Warloy, which positions were occupied until the next morning. Previous to this time Warloy had not been shelled by the enemy and was still inhabited by a considerable number of natives. About 4 a. m., in com- l>any with Capt. Porter, visited Warloy in an effort to locate the ration cart and cook shack of our company, and discovered that following the offensive that started this morning that the Germans had destroyed several plaster houses in Warloy by shell fire. About 10:30 our battalion moved over to the right of the Laveville road and extended their positions in a line of reserve trenches running from northwest to southeast and parallel to the front. At this time the offensive started, preceded by an intense barrage, which evidently met with success, for throughout the day both moving troops and artillery, as well as the scattering units of allied forces, could be seen moving over the east of the hill beyond the River Ancre. That night our battalion once more moved and took up a position with our left resting directly upon the Albert-Amiens road, extending to the right along a series of defensive trenches towards the town of Dernancourt. That night about 1 o'clock a runner from battalion headquarters arrived at our platoon P. C. and directed tliat the company join the battalion at Heilly and that the troops would start to move immediately. I sent word to Capt. Gale that the company would form, and received answer that he knew nothing concerning the troojj movement; that the runner who spoke to me was not a battalion runner but a company runner, who thought that at the time he was reporting to me he was reporting to company head- quarters. The company then moved forward according to company commander's instructions in the direction of Dernancourt. Becoming confused in directions the company was placed alongside an old cemetery, behind some large caliber and very active British artillery to rest until daylight. When daylight came we retraced our steps through Biure Sur L 'Ancre to Heilly, where we met up with other detach- ments of the regiment, who informed us that the battalion was proceeding to Sally-Le-Sec by a different route. Crossing the River Ancre at this point we pro- ceeded across country to the main Bray-Corbie road, where we connected up with a second-class road running to Sally-Le Sec; much destroyed artillery and dead horses were lying around the country in this strip. Arriving at Sally-Le Sec we discovered that the remainder of the troops had not arrived. The town was liter- ally torn to pieces. Passing through the town we occupied some German trenches just beyond the outskirts and went into rest. At this time the sun was very hot and the men all went to sleep, waking about 1 o'clock in the afternoon. I went out 212 NAKHATIVK OV I.IKIT. FK'Kn 1.. KMNKl.iri' 1918 to sit alono tlio s^ido of the road, alono- wliioh sovoral Uritish aminunituui trucks and I'onvo.vs woro moving forward to tho front, when a British start" car canio driving back hurriodly from tho front, stopped and inquired of me for the P. 0. of the regimental commander and ou receiving the information proceeded post- haste in that direction. About one hour afterward the car came back and fol- lowing it half an hour later our intelligence department camo around distributing maps to the otlicers shoAviug our .lumping off positions and our parallel lines of jvdvance. The barrage was to fall at 5:30 p. m., which necessitated a hurried march upon tho part of our men, it being necessary for the last half mile or so to double time in order to jump off at the zero hour. Sally Laurette and other points through which we passed were very badly shot up. At this time our ration limbers had not been seen since the night before and all the Lewis gun pans were on those limbers. Discovering that we were about to participate in warfare we proceeded to salvage thirteen or fourteen Lewis gun pans, which I distributed among our company, and which proved very valuable in view of the fact that we had a lot of ammunition on onr persons. We arrived at our jumping otf place, which was tho crest of the hill just in front of Malard wood, and moving in the general direction of Eitnehom, our objective, which was not reached till next morning. Our battalion went into the engagement with A and D companies as attacking troops., with B and C in support. .\ considerable amount of minenwerfer fire began to fall on our left as soon as tho advance started, but executing a movement to the right this fire was escaped to a large extent. After the attacking troops had advanced through Malard wood coming out at the edge along the sunken road looking across the valley ou the opposite crest the enemy was still present in considerable number and held up our advance. Passing through Malard woods there was considerable evidence of an engagement between both sides from the destroyed machine guns, Lewis guns and three light batteries. As we deployed and advanced through the woods the enemy on the opposite slope began to harass ns with machine gun tire from long range positions across the valley. Capt. Porter, then in command of C company, held up the advance of the company temporarily and directed that the woods to the right be reconnoitered for a safer means of approach to the sunken road. Going forward with 8ergt. Hobscheid I discovered a large ditch running down through the woods and coming out on the sunken road behind some bushes. Here I discovered one platoon of D company extended in skirmish formation along the sunken road, with three British machine gnu men occupying a post just above them in the woods. Lieut. Postal at that time was commanding this platoon, and upon my arrival he was still on duty with the platoon, although he had previously been wounded by machine gun fire. Across the valley about 400 yards in a direct airline the Germans were plainly visible hiding in the tall grass and bushes, also a consider- able body about 1,000 yards to our left were moving in the direction of Gressaire wood. We then went back and reported our findings to Capt. Porter, who moved the company down in column of files throiigh the ravine to the road and extended the company in one single line of skirmishers to the left of the D company platoon jvlong the sunken road. After extending in line of skirmishers the entire line of troops as one man started forward down the slope across the valley, increasing their speed and cheering iu proportion to the distance covered. By this time the remainder of the Germans scattered along the crest beat a hasty retreat to the rear except one, who evidently had no desire to retreat, but remained in a prone position on the crest of the hill until our troops had reached the foot, when he came 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIKCT. FRED L. RI. \K EI FF 213 running down with his hands up. Arriving at the foot of the hill our men slowly advanced to the crest, where scouts were thrown out to advance along the rolling ground to our front to endeavor to locate the enemy. The remainder of the troops were organized in two waves and moved forward again across the plateau to the left of Chipilly and in the direction of the Somme river, coming out were the Chipilly-Eitnehcm road meets the Somme river. There many dugouts were discovered. Some 350 prisoners were taken from these. Here darkness overtook us, and not being able to make further advance because of this and also because of the fact that the terrain was entirely new to us, outposts were thrown out and the remainder of the company turned in for a rest. One outpost was placed at the junction of the road which crosses the Somme river leading to Mericourt-sur-Somme. This outpost position during the night captured a German prisoner attempting to escape across the Somme river. He evidently was very badly excited or temporarily insane, for he dropped on his knees on the road and immediately began crying frantically to spare his life; he also informed them that if they would accompany him he would take them to another dugout further back in the enemy line, where about seventy-five Germans were quartered. Our outpost positions extending to the left of the road connected up with some scattering British positions, and beyond these were some outpost posi- tions of two platoons of G company under Lieut. Dick, stationed in the vicinity of the stone quarries. About 2:30 a. m. that morning hot rations came up. The men were then rationed and immediately prepared to move ahead to our objective. The move- ment began about 4 o'clock that morning. For this further advance it was neces- sary to move to the left flank so that we could move forward parallel to the river; the advance then started through Gressaire wood, with Company C in the attack- ing wave on the extreme right flank. Gressaire wood was very badly shattered by artillery fire, with here and there wounded and dead Germans scattered about. Coming out of Gressaire wood C company moved forward through the open, with left of the battalion continuing the advance through Bois Des Thilles. No enemy was encountered by C company during the advance until they had reached the open, when about six men were seen to jump up about 400 yards ahead and beat a hasty retreat. Coming up to the filace from where the enemy was seen to appear there was evidence of their having been there throughout the night. Crossing the old trenches at this place we continued on for about a hundred yards, when a church tower became visible in the fog. Immediately I informed Capt. Gale that a village existed to our right front and was then told that if such was the case we had reached our objective, the village of Eitnehem. At this time a considerable number of Germans were seen coming out of the village. They entrenched parallel to our front and opened fire with machine guns. The men immediately took available cover and proceeded to jAaee the Lewis guns and opened fire upon the enemy. About this time the enemy began to shell us with "pineapple" from the village of Eitnehem, wounding one of the men in my platoon. The two Lewis guns of my platoon, which were operating on the right of the line, were in such a position to render flank fire on the German machine gun, and after a few minutes of firing on both sides the enemy was seen to leave his trenches and return to the rear. About this time Capt. Gale, who was at that time with Company Headquarters, was occupying a system of reserve trenches fifty yards in 6ur rear and directed that because of the shelling going on in our midst that the troops should retire to those trenches, where we established our line of resist- ance, keeping the same as a front line for thirty-six hours. C company was extended 214 NAEEATIVE OF LIEUT. FEED L. EINKLIFF 1918 iu a line ruiiiiing from the Somme across the plateau and connecting with B com- pany on our left. Several aeroplanes were in the vicinity (destroyed planes); a French plane directly in front of left of the company, a German plane directly in front of right of the company, while to the rear along the Somme was a Canadian plane. The greater portion of the company was up on the i)lateau and in such a position that they could not look down directly on the town. I happened to have an admirable post for observation. I was occupying with nine of my men an outpost position in a bush on the bank along the Somme river and could look down on the town of Eitnehem and from which place we could observe all enemy movements in that direction. At the time we retired to this position the Germans were unable to really locate where we had settled, for we had no sooner established ourselves in this post when we heard voices from the sunken road to our left, about seventy-five yards away, and a few minutes later a couple of German helmets were visible sticking over the top, looking in the opposite direc- tion endeavoring to locate our lines. Not being armed with a rifle, I notified the men in our trench of the presence of a patrol. They evidently overheard my voice, for about that time they looked in our direction. In the meantime Private Demp- ster secured a rifle and was about to fire at the patrol, but they immediately dropped from view and disappeared. About twenty minutes later near the other end of the sunken road and close to the vicinity of the village a German patrol could be seen running along the crest toward Eitnehem. The information this patrol had gathered must have been transmitted to the artillery, for we were almost constantly harassed by artillery fire. That night patrols were kept out in our front, while the remainder of our men, except the sentry, busied themselves with reconstructing our dilapidated trench. Throughout the night German l)0]nb- ing planes paid us several visits, but inflicted no damage. During the night I sent a detail of two men down to our right rear to fill the canteens and coming back they reported that a wounded American was lying in one of the dugouts calling for water. Going down to investigate I discovered Lieut. Lee, of Company G, lying on a cot with a sick German. He had a stomach wound and was in a state of semi-consciousness, for in his talk he seemed to have a vague idea of what happened, for he claimed to have been captured by the Germans and left behind. He also said he had been there three days, which evidently was an error, for he could not have been there over twenty-four hours at the longest, since barely a day had elapsed since beginning our attack. I immediately sent back for stretcher bearers to carry the wounded officer back to the dressing station (Aus- tralian). Both patients died later. Next morning, just about stand-to, as the fog began to lift sufficiently to allow a person to see any distance, a considerable num- ber of dark objects were plainly visible about 100 yards in our front iu well organized formation. I immediately ordered the Lewis guns and all the rifles in our trench to open up with point blank fire, but there was no result. After empty ing a couple of pans on the Lewis guns it suddenly dawned upon us that the day before a young fruit orchard was seen in this vicinity, accounting for the dark objects which were seen on our front. Our burst of fire had evidently created excitement on our left, for a few Lewis guns opened up with a scattering fire along the front, which did not cease until we silenced our guns. The following day was passed very quietly, as no rations had arrived the night before to cause any one any stomach pains from overeating. The following evening about 10:30 an Australian battalion leap-frogged through our lines, accompanied by two tanks, and made a silent attack on the village of Eitnehem, going in on our left, taking over the entire town and establishing outposts around the front of the 1918 NAKEATIVE OF LIEUT. FRED L. KINKLIFF 215 town. The German bombing i)l;tnes were again active througliout the night, it being one of their favorite stunts to fly along the course of the Sonime river, guided by the moonlight on the water. Next morning at dawn the Australian signalmen were stringing a telephone line up to the front line positions. Had we had telephone communications the day previous we could have annihilated an entire battalion of Germany infantry, which was moving in plain view in column of squads from across the Somme, going along the road in the direction of Bray-Sur-Somme. This evidently was a battalion of men at least, for it took about twenty minutes for all to pass a given point. Several horsemen were seen. That afternoon considerable excitement prevailed among our men because of the presence of a body of troops seen in the distance on the crest of a hill along the Somme beyond Eitnehem. Because of the distance it was impossible to distinguish whether they were Aus- tralians or Germans. Word was sent to Company and Battalion Headquarters of this fact, but a few minutes later some Australians coming from the town of Eitnehem told us it was some of their men taking up a more advanced position with the intent of pushing to the Somme that night. About 12 that night the Australian batteries opened up with a terrific barrage, which continued in intensity for about twenty minutes, then died down to a harassing fire. Nothing was learned concern- ing the advance until the next morning, when some Australians came back with about 200 prisoners and informed us that they had established their line along the Somme and had either captured, killed or driven off all the Germans on this side of the river. These prisoners were not brought back that night, being used by the Australians in digging trenches until daylight, wlien they were brought to the rear. The usual numlier of air raids were carried on that, night with usual results. Next afternoon we were informed that the first battalion was to move forward and take over the front line positions of the Australians, who were retiring for a rest. Companies C and D were to take front line positions, A company taking the line of trenches to the left of Eitnehem, with C company headquarters and the second and fourth platoons in the town of Eitnehem, while the first platoon was to occupy a line of German trenches near a grave yard the other side of the town, witli the third platoon occupying a system of trendies about 20U yards to the left. Eitnehem proved to be a very lively place, for the Germans continually shelled the town with gas and succeeded Jn gassing the greater portion of the fourth platoon. The relief was made about 10:30 at night and proved to be interesting, for just about the time C company was going to enter the town they were met by a few teams from our battalion transport, who thought it would be a great stunt to once imitate the Australians by hauling rations up to our front line, these teams preceded us into town with rations. Just before the first and third platoons had reached the town of Eitnehem, coming down the sunken road, the Germans began to throw gas into the village, whereupon the transport had decided it had forgotten some of the rations and immediately turned about and proceeded towards the rear post-haste, almost running down some of the men of our company. C coin- pan}' has just gotten comfortably settled in the town, had succeeded in securing a 'phone and established a line of communication with the rear, when orders were received that we were to relieve with our one company a badly depleted battalion of Australians in a front line of trenches just to the right of Eitnehem; conse- quently Capt. Gale, with a representative from each platoon, who were to act as guides, proceeded in the direction of Bray in an endeavor to locate the battalion we were to relieve. After getting various platoon locations we once more returned to our platoons foi- the purpose of moving foiwai'd to our new positions. About 216 NAKRATIVE OF LIEUT. FRED L. RINKLIFF 1918 this time the Germans heavily shelled the town with gas, which resulted in all but twelve men of the fourth platoon being gassed. The relief was accomplished about 1:30 a. m., with one platoon covering each company front held by the Australian battalion. This necessarily meant considerable extension on our part, and the units were broken up into squads and established outposts along the front. These, in most cases, were anywhere from 75 to 125 yards apart. The relief was no sooner completed than the Germans laid down one of the heaviest barrages ou our posi- tions which this company has ever suffered; it lasted twenty minutes. Before the opening of the barrage I had gone to the extreme left of the line to report to Capt. Gale, who had sent for me, there being but two officers with the company, one stationed at each end of the line. The lull in the barrage did not last, for there was hardly a sufficient lapse of time intervening to allow me to return to my piatoon before he dropped another equal in intensity and length, which gradually died out to a harassing fire. The barrage was of such a nature that we anticipated an attack at that time and the troops stood-to, but nothing further developed. The extreme right outpost of my platoon was located on a peninsular piece of land ju- ting out into the Somme elevated about fifty feet and gave a wonderful command of the surrounding country. This outpost had evidently been discovered by the Germans the day before, for they laid down a heavy strafing, striking our Lewis gun, destroying it and wounding four men in that squad, one of whom later died. Following the blowing up of the Lewis gun the men placed a captured German machine gun in position, but it was also destroyed by the enemy. The following night the men were withdrawn from this position and placed behind a good screen of bush, and succeeded in remaining in the new position during the rest of our occupation without being discovered by the Germans. That night our platoons were so small that when ration carrying parties and men necessary for patrols were taken out there was hardly anyone left in the out- post positions for sentry duty. Patrols were kept active throughout the night operating in our front, with visiting patrols operating between outposts and con- necting with the extreme left post of D company, which was about 150 yards from our right outpost. The town of Bray was occupied by the Germans, who were plainly visible throughout the day. Each evening a detachment of Germans could be seen coming down from somewhere in the rear to take up their outpost positions for the night, while on different occasions both voices and the rattling of limbers could be heard coming from a densely woodetl country across the Somme some- what beneath our positions. This position was held for four days and nights, and the first three successive evenings an Australian lieutenant came to visit my P. C. for the purpose of determining the number of men available for establishing out- post positions beyond a working party which he was to bring up for the purpose of constructing a wire entanglement across a deep hollow just in front of my posi- tion, but each and every night after learning the number of troops in that position he departed, stating he could not afford to place a working party of 100 men in such a position with no stronger position of defense to protect him than existed. Consequently the wiring was never done while we were in this position. The end of the fourth day and the beginning of the fifth night we were relieved, and just about the time the relief was in progress of being effected the Germans again opened up with a grand and glorious barrage, which lasted some minutes, but without serious results. Our instructions to platoons were that upon completion of relief we were to report same to Company Headquarters, and proceed as separate units to a point about two kilos to the rear, where we were to meet guides, who would conduct us 1918 NAERATIVE OF LIEUT. FRED L. RINKLIFF 217 to a system of dugouts in the vicinity of Regimental Headquarters, where we were to go into rest for a few days. We arrived at these dugouts about the break of day, aJid found waiting for us a good hot meal, following which we turned in for a sleep. Next afternoon I was directed to report to Battalion Headquarters, where I was directed to proceed with one "N. C. 0." from each company to a system of trenches and dugouts near Hamel, where we were to secure quarters for troops for the night. The next day the same detail preceded the organization to the town of Aubigny, where quarters were secured for the battalion for the following night. The third day we went ahead to the town of Coisy to secure billets for the battalion, as we were to rest there for a short time. Two days later I was directed to report to Amiens to the division billeting detail, which was to precede the division then on its way to Verdun sector, where we were to join the newly organized American first army preparatory to starting the Meuse-Argonne offensive. ACTION OF DEAD MAN'S HILL. On the evening of Sept. 23rd Capt. Porter received word that the company would move from Fromerville Woods by way of Germonville and Chattancourt to a system of trenches (reserve) near Le Mort Homme. Capt. Porter was placed in command of Companies C and D and directed to join the remainder of the bat- talion at Germonville, which was proceeding by cross-country from Bois Delolirce under command of Capt. Gale, then acting as battalion commander. On arriving at Germonville we found that the other two companies had moved forward because of the congested condition of the roads, and we did not meet them again until we arrived at the trenches we were to occupy on Dead Man's Hill about 2:30 a. m. that morning. The battalion occupied these trench positions until 1:30 a. m., Sept. 26th, when they moved forward to the jumping-off position. Upon arriving at the jump- ing-off place we found that our trench positions were completely packed with members of the 80th Division, who evidently were more or less confused and were entirely too far to the right for their front. Capt. Gale sent forward a detail to locate the position of our attacking troops,, which returned with the report that the attacking waves had left their trenches and had taken up their positions for attack. Because of the error of the 80th Division our battalion, which was to support the attacking troops, could not move out at the appointed time, due to the fact that we were crowded behind a machine gun company which was laying a barrage on the Bois de Forges. This barrage was laid in two places; first a thirty-minute barrage on the German front line trenches, after which it lifted to the Bois de Forges, where it played for twenty minutes. It was only after the barrage lifted that we were able to move out of the trenches and take up our position of attack in support, follow- ing the attacking wave at 500 yards distance. After considerable double-timing in single file through various wire entanglements and along the narrow-guage rail- way bed, through the swamps and along Forges creek we finally reached our position on the opposite side, where we were to take up a two-wave formation moving for- ward in support. This movement was all accomplished without any loss of lives, even though there were several wounded men coming back from the attacking. 218 NAEKATIVE OF LIEUT. VRED L. EINKLIFF 1918 After taking our wave formation, jjreparatory to mo zing forward, and because of the haze which came over the entire valley, both from smoke and fog, Capt. Gale ordered that a patrol be sent out from each company to locate the position of the attacking troops. I directed Sergt. Hobscheid to accompany me and advanced about 100 yards, where we met some lost stretcher bearers from Company K, who were returning from taking back wounded and who were unable, in the haze, to locate their company. About this time we could hear voices and command coming from out the haze in our rear, which convinced us that the battalion was moving forward in support, whereupon we retraced our steps to join the troops and informed both Capt. Porter and Capt. Gale that tlie attacking waves could not be located. Moving forward with the troops for about 200 or 300 yards, the support met up with the attacking waves, whereupon we informed Capt. Gale that the advance was held up by the slow progress of the attacking waves. About this time the attacking waves moved forward again, followed a little later by the first battalion, which caught uj) again. They informed us that they were held uj) liy machine gun fire. Word was again sent to Capt. Gale that we liad caught up with the attacking waven. By this time our barrage liad moved forward so far in advance of the attack- ing waves that it was imperative that we move forward if we were to be benefited by it, whereupon Capt. Gale directed that our battalion move forward through the attacking waves and take up the attack. Because of the large amount of terri- tory to be covered, and the density of the haze, it being impossible to see a man over five paces from you, the battalion extended in one lliin line of skirmishers moving slowly forward. Suddenly the haze lifted, and we discovered that we were almost in front of the German trenches. The lifting of the fog seemed to inspire the men with con- fidence, and they moved forward with a rush. The trenches crossed by my platoon were very deep and difiicult to cross, and upon our arriving had been deserted by the Germans, who were then retiring. The artillery barrage in this sector was, on this particular object, very effective, everything being torn up by shell fire. The disposition of the companies in line was: A, B, C and D, moving in one line of skirmishers. A, becoming engaged with the enemy's strong ])oint in Bois de Forges, later joining us at our objective. 1), on our left, becoming engaged with the enemy's strong points near Pont de Tanience, was held up temporarily and later joined us at our objective. B and C, covering the entire regimental front, moved forward, pinching out the few scattering machine gun posts left l\v the retiring Germans, B company going through Drillancourt and passing to the right of Gercourt, C company going through Gercourt, executing a turning movement to the right, both companies reaching their objective at 10:30 a. m. Because of the delay of the original attacking waves to follow^ up the rolling barrage our bat- talion, after leap-frogging through the former, did not catch up with the barrage until we had reached Gercourt. The barrage at this time had reduced itself to merely a harassing fire. The first and third platoon of C company coming in on the left of Gercourt took the German rear guard posts by surprise and caused them to retire in such haste that they did not have time to dismantle the artillery they were manning at this point. These were the only artillery pieces captured that were not dismantled. At this town Company C captured a German ambulance and three men who were driving rapidly toward the front, evidently not expecting the American troops to be so far advanced at this time of the engagement by the look of surprise on their faces when they drove around the corner. C coinpany, because of the barrage, could not move forward to its objective. 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. FRED L. RINKLIFF 219 B comjiaiiv anil Battalion Headquarters on the right and moving at right angles to the barrage were able to move forward more rapidly and reached their objective sooner, capturing at this point some 120 prisoners. C company coming up on the right a few minutes later, Capt. Gale directed that both companies prepare their positions for defense. Our position at this point was on the crest of the hill over- looking la Grand Prarie along the Meuse river. The Germans at that time were still holding the depot and vicinity of Laterie de Bethaine and were occasionally enfilading us with machine gun fire from that point, wounding two of our men. About 1 o'clock p. m. D company and the third battalion came up from the direction of Gercourt, D company taking the line and extending further to our left, while the third battalion organized in depth and took up a position to our left and rear, sending one body of troops over to the left, flanking the depot and silencing the enemy in that position. Our battalion held this position until the next evening, when they were with drawn to a support position near Gercourt, being replaced by the third battalion and a few days later were retired to a reserve position in the Bois de Forges. The work of the troops in this battalion was very satisfactory, the men mov- ing rorward and flanking strong points admirably. There seemed to be no hesita- tion on the part of the men, who were able to handle tiie proposition of machine gun nests and also to act upon their own initiative when occasion deajanded. THE ACTION EAST OF THE MKUSE. About 2:30 p. m. word was received by runner to the eft'ect that the first bat- talion would move through Bois de Forges at once to the east bank of the Meuse river, gathering enroute, at the ammunition dump, bandoliers to the amount of six per man. This accomplished the company moved forward by slow stages to a point just east of the Meuse, where we were met by our company guides, who with Capt. Gale preceded the company earlier in the day to locate our positions. Our trip over was accomplished without any casualties, although the enemy was laying a harassing artillery fire throughout the valley between Bois de Forges and the Meuse river. The crossing was effected by means of pontoon bridge, about midway between Brabant and Consenvoye. Compau}- C was assigned to a trench sector in trench De Balis, while the third battalion and the remainder of the first battalion occupied the trench of Hercules, directlv to our front and along the nar- row gauge railway. About 12 midnight a runner came around and ordered C. O. to report to liealatoon as a distinct unit on November 29th, 1917. The purpose and duties of this platoon were described in a lecture by Maj. Karl Truesdale, then commanding the lOSth Field Signal Battalion. This lecture opened the signal school under the super- vision of Lieut. DuFour of the French 8th Engineers. The school lasted for a dura- tion of four weeks, and it was during this period that Sergt. deBruyn was com- missioned as a first lieutenant and appointed regimental signal officer. On the com- pletion of this school the platoon had increased to sixteen men. In the meantime a system of trenches and a signal dugout were constructed in the rear of the regimental area. These trenches were wired and used for the purpose of instructing the men in all methods of signaling used in modern warfare. Lieut. deBruyn was made instructor in the 66th Brigade Telephone School. A regi- mental school was organized and the platoon, which by now had increased to thirty- nine men, began active training. Buzzer and telephone instruction were given in the morning and practical instruction in the trenches in the afternoons and evenings. The third week in February the platoon occupied a section of the divisional trenches, which were known as the Logan Sector, and successfully'- installed and maintained various means of communications under simulated battle conditions. By the end of the first week in March the signal platoon had increased to about fifty men. On March 13th, 1918, Lieut. deBruyn went to Liaison School, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, retuining on April 6th; during this period the training was carried on under the command of Sergeant Beatty. Sergt. Allan F. Helsten, one of the pioneers of this platoon and the first platoon leader, was sent to second officers' training school, where he received a commission as a second lieutenant. At Le Mesnil Reaume, where we arrived June 12th, English signalmen detailed for the purpose of instructing Americans in the British method of signaling worked with the platoon every day. Their methods were a revelation both in precision and speed to us, who were as yet mere tyros at the work. This instruction included work with the British fullerphone, lucan lamp, flags and shutters. While at Le Mesnil Reaume the platoon received most of its signal equipment. The next move was made on June 21st to Gamaclies and from there the trip was made in motor busses to Pierregot in the reserve area of the Albert sector. After arriving in Pierregot the work of training the platoon in the English system of signaling was carried on by a detachment of Royal Engineers who at that time were billeted in the village. A regular signal school was organized about the first of July, the work being under the supervision of a lieutenant from the British army, who had three regular British army instructors with him. Classes were held for instruction in buzzer practice and stations were established for the transmis- sion of messages by buzzerphone, lamp, telephone, flags and shutters. These classes were attended by not only the signal platoon, but also by men from each company. Shortly after the signal school was established, the platoon received the re- mainder of its signal equipment which included lamps used by the French Army and T. P. S. and "Wireless Sets. The first practical work done by the platoon was the installation and operation of a complete telephone system connecting all units of the regiment to a regimental switcliboard, to brigade and divisional head- quarters. 1918 XAKKATIVE OF LIET'T. H. ('. do RRUYN 223 111 the operations, during the period from June 23rd to July 6th, 1918, in which the 131st Infantry advanced to support the English in the Amiens Sector, the signal platoon and details operated with the companies. About the middle of July, Sergeant Beatty was appointed to attend the fourth officers' training camp and Sergeant Quinn succeeded him as platoon leader. On July 19th, Sergeant Quinn took a detachment of thirteen men in the trenches in the Albert Sector for the purpose of learning the practical method of operating signal stations at battalion headquarters. This detail did no actual operating in the stations but was detailed in shifts to observe how the work was carried on. The first signal detail to operate in the front line trenches was when our own infantry moved from Pierregot to the Albert Sector on July 23rd with the first battalion. This detail under the command of Corporal Bain, took over the signal station in the section of the Albert trenches occupied by tlie first battalion on the night of July 24th, relieving troops of the III Corps, B. E. F. Several members of the Royal Engineers attached to this corp remained to operate the T. P. S. sets and to assist our men in case of emergency. The signal detail consisted of Corporal Bain and seventeen men. Eleven men of the detail operated the station at battalion headquarters. Six of these operated the switchboard and fullerphone lines in two shifts. Three ojaerated the light sta- tion near battalion headquarters and two acted as line repairmen. The remaining four men were detailed to the companies to assist the company signalmen in their duties. The British equipment was used tliroughout with tlie exception of Ameri- can buzzerphones. On July 27th the second battalion, with its signal detail under Sergeant Mann, moved to the Albert sector and the following night they relieved another battalion of English, the first battalion in turn being relieved by British. The signalmen were distributed the same as in the previous detail and the work was carried on. At this tim.e, the Albert sector was quiet and the only work done was the send- ing out at night of scouting patrols and working parties to repair wire entangle- ments and build trenches; consequently the work of keeping liaison between the units was easier than in later operations. While the details were in the line, members of the platoon left at Pierregot kept on with the school which lasted until the first of August when the English lieutenant and his instructors left. On July 31st, a signal detail, under the command of Corporal Loh and attached to the Third Battalion, moved to the Albert sector and the following night re- lieved a battalion of British, the Second Battalion in turn being relieved by a battalion of British. The work done by this detail was similar to that of the two previous details except that a line was strung by Lieutenant deBruyn, Sergeant Anfield and Corporal Loh and two other men together with a company runner who acted as guide, and communication established with the company which had ad- vanced to the edge of Albert, on its evacuation by the Germans. On the night of August 5th, the Third Battalion detail was relieved by the British and returned to Pierregot. Lieutenant deBruyn made frequent trijis up the line to inspect the signal stations and to direct the work and in turn to direct the work of the school where it was most needed. About the first of August, Lieutenant deBruyn was re- lieved of the command of headquarters company and was therefore able to devote the whole time in the ensuing operations to the signal platoon. Signal details which had previously worked with the first and second battalions with Lieutenant deBruyn in command, occupied the Baizieux sector on August 6th. 224 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. H. C. de BRUYN 1918 On the night of August 7th, Lieutenant deBruyu received orders to proceed to Heilly, the balance of the regiment having started from Pierregot at the same time. The first detachments were overtaken there at 6 o'clock on the morning of the 8th of August. Hiking over the Somme battlefields, the regiment arrived at Sailly-le- See in the forenoon of the same day. After resting outside of Sailly-le-Sec until about three o 'clock the regiment began the advance on the road towards Chipilly. The signal detachment assembled near the trenches from which the Germans had been driven that same morning by the British. As soon as our signal equipment, which we had requisitioned from the British in the absence of our own equipment left behind at Pierregot, came up, the Third Battalion signal detail advanced along the road bordering the right bank of the Somme river and laid wire as far as the valley back of Malard wood where regi- mental headquarters was later established. The first and second battalion details laid their wire over the top of the plateau. Early the following morning the first and second battalion details advanced together to Chipilly Ridge stringing the wire as they went and assisted by men of Company C, of the 108th Field Signal Bat- talion. The same night the regimental signal detail moved up to the valley near Malard woods where regimental hea:lquarters was located and established a signal office in a dugout where it remained until the regiment left the line. No more wire being obtainable, the next day, August 10th, an advanced regi- mental signal station was established at the north end of Chipilly Ridge, having runner communications with the first and second battalion headquarters. During the next day, wire was brought up by Lieutenant deBruyn and telephonic com- munication was established with the first and second battalion headquarters in the trenches in front of Gressaire wood. The second battalion headquarters was in a trench running parallel to the Bray-Corbie road. This position was continuously shelled and the headquarters and signal station was moved that same day to an evacuated dugout in a valley on the right of this road. During the moving of the signal station to the new position the signal detail was under heavy shell fire and Private Harry Scholl was badly wounded in the head from shell fragments which <»onstituted our first casualty. The first battalion station was operated by four men from Sergeant Bain's detail and the remainder stayed at the stone quarry to operate the advanced regi- mental switchboard which acted as a relay station. This place was so heavily bombarded that gas masks had to be worn almost continuously. At this time all the operating work was done by men of the signal platoon while the wire construction and repair was done by men from the 108th Field Signal Battalion, assisted by our iiwn men. The second battalion holding the left half of the regimental position was re- lieved by an Australian unit on the night of August l.Sth and came back into re- serve. The third battalion advancing from reserve in Malard wood took up the support position in Gressaire wood, telephone communication being imme liately established through advanced regimental signal station. The first battalion head- quarters was moved to a better position near the Somme river and visual communica- tions were established with the companies. On the 17th of August, the third battalion relieved the first, which went into reserve while the second battalion moved forward and took the place of the second battalion in support. The battalion headquarters were at all times connected with the regimental exchange by telephone supplemented by buzzerphone communications. The regi- mental switchboard had eighteen lines and in addition to the man on the switch- 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. H. C. de BRUl'N 225 board, there was one man operating the buzzerphone and one man on the message center. Sergeant Quinn was in charge with Corporal Murray in charge of all regi- mental runners and three signalmen were detailed to a visual station on the hill nearby to receive messages from the front. Lieutenant R. J. Smith of the First Australian Signal company supervised liaison between the Australian forces and our own. Private Simmonds of the Australians was on duty at the regimental signal station with two line repairmen to take care of Australian lines running into our switchboard. The Australians relieved the entire regiment on the night of August 19th and the battalions moved out on the nights of August 19th and 20th and arrived in Poulainville on the night of August 21st by the way of Hamel and Aubigny. The signal platoon was the last to leave its station, and was assembled as a whole at Poulainville. All the English equipment was turned in. On the night of August 23rd the company moved to the region of Amiens and on the following morning entrained for the American sector. Detraining at Ligny, on the 25th of August, the company hiked to Salmagne. An exchange was installed and telephone communication established between all units of the regiment and brigade and division headquarters. In the period from the arrival at Salmagne to September 6th, all men not engaged in operating the switchboard attended platoon buzzer school in the morning and did field work in the afternoon five days out of the week. Leaving Salmagne the evening of September 6th, the company hiked to Tron- ville and from there traveled all night in French trucks arriving at Bailiecourt next morning. The company stayed two days in the French barracks above Bailiecourt, during which time the battalions and regimental details were again made up and the second battalion detail reported to battalion headquarters on September 8th. The signal jjlatoon moved with the company on the night of Sep- tember 9th to the neighborhood of Fromerville and Gernionville where in the sur- rounding woods the whole regiment was billeted. The 131st Infantry was at this time acting as a reserve for the 132nd Infantry which was holding the front line at Le Mort Homme. The battalion and regimental details which reported to their respective head- quarters on September 10th, were made up differently than at the time of the Somme offensive. In place of having a signal platoon take care of all the operating and the Company C platoon of the lG8th Field Signal Battalion lay and repair all wire, the men of both platoons were divided into groups according to their abilities as opera- tors, linemen, and visual signal operators and a detail of each group assigned to tlie battalions, a corporal being in charge of each detail. In addition to these men there were two Signalmen in charge of runners at each battalion and later one man assigned as pigeoneer. Thus a battalion detail was formed into compact units con- sisting of four operators and a corporal, five linemen and a corporal, two visual operators and a corporal, a runner corporal assisted by a private, one pigeoneer and a sergeant in charge of the entire station. The men in charge of the details were Sergeant Graydon, first battalion, of the 108th Field Signal Battalion; Sergeant Pedersen, second battalion, 108th Field Signal Battalion; Sergeant Anfield, Third Battalion, 131st Signal platoon and Sergeant Quinn, 131st Signal platoon at regi- mental headquarters. These details remained practically the same until after the armistice was signed. Telephone communication from the regimental P. C. was established to the battalion P. C. 's and also the brigade and divi-sion and this was later supplemented by visual and T. P. S. stations between the battalions and the regimental stations Sig. 19 226 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. H. C. de BRUYN 1918 which were about one kilometer north-east of Fromerville, and by wireless between regimental brigade and division. The next move was made by the third battalion on the night of September 20th into the trenches on Le-Mort-Homme, the signal detail completing the installa- tion of telephone communication the following morning. The second battalion moved into the trenches on the right of the third battalion on September 22nd and battalion headquarters was connected to regimental immediately. Regimental headquarters was moved forward to a position ahead of Chattencourt on the 23rd and the first battalion occupied a position in the same vicinity, supporting the second and third battalions. In preparing for the general offensive of the 26th of September, the two bat- talions on Le-Mort-Homme moved down to the first line trenches during the night of the 25th and made ready to attack at 5:30 a. m. on the 26th. The signal de- tails, leaving one man to operate the stations on the hill, strung wires as far as possible and then waited for the ' 'hop-over. ' ' The second battalion detail went out in advance of the first line and waited in an observation post. Following the at- tack as closely as possible the Second battalion signals completed a line to Drillan- court where a relay station was established and a line run into battalion head- quarters about one kilometer ahead of Drillancourt and communication established at three o'clock on the afternoon of the 26th. The Third Battalion, having taken up a position detail ahead of the Forges brook and in advance of the second bat- talion, the Second Battalion under command of Sergeants Loh and Iwicki hooked on to their own station and extended their lines to the Third Battalion the same afternoon. The Third Battalion signals were held up on the hill back of Drillan- court by lack of wire but a detail sent to battalion headquarters to establish visual communication found their wire laid and immediately took over the station of the Third Battalion. Advance regimental headquarters was established near Drillan- court the same night and the Second Battalion withdrawn to Forges wood, where a new line was laid from the advance regimental signal office. A relay station known as "Alexander station" was established in Cumieres woods by the signal platoon of the 132nd Infantry. The function of this station was to act as a half way relay point between division and all units of the division in the line. About the first of October, the station was taken over by Sergeant Mann of the 131st Infantry signal platoon with a detail of five men who operated th^ switchboard and kept the twenty lines in repair for a period of eighteen days. The regiment remained in this position until the second phase of the Meuse- Argonne offensive which was begun on October 8th. Continuous telephone com- munication was maintained between the various units in spite of spasmodic shell fire. The telephone lines supplemented by visual and T. P. S. communication. Dur- ing this period, Sergeants Quinn and Anfield were sent to signal school and Ser- geant Grifiith of the 108th field signal battalion took charge of the regimental signal station and Sergeant Davidson of the 108th field signal battalion replaced Sergeant Anfield in charge of the Third Battalion signal detail. The Third Battalion detail moved from its position near the Meuse river into Forges wood early on the morning of the seventh of October. At night, the Second Battalion crossed the Meuse river on a temporary bridge constructed by the divisional engineers and was attached to the 132nd Infantry south-east of Conse- voye on the morning of the 8th of October. Wire was laid but shell fire blew them out so continuously that communication was possible for short periods only. The First and Third Battalions crossed the river late in the afternoon of the same date and took up a support position between Brabant and Consevoye. The 132nd In- 1918 NAEEATIVE OF LIEUT. H. C. de BKUYN 227 fantry lines were, tapped and Battalion Headquarters put into communication with regimental headquarters immediately. Advanced regimental P. C. was moved up to the same locality later in the night and also put in wires. On the ninth, the First and Second Battalions advanced into Consevoye wood and joined in the at- tack. First and Second Battalion headquarters were established on the edge of Consevoye wood and communication established in the afternoon through the Second Battalion which was in a valley a little to the rear of regimental head- quarters. On the 10th another line was put through to lessen the danger of being cut off "By shell fire. Communication during the offensive period from October 11th to 14th was successfully carried out under continuous heavy shell fire and gas at- tacks. A switchboard was maintained at the advanced regimental P. C. and the main signal station operated further to the rear near Consevoye. The 66th Brigade being relieved in the front line by the 65th Brigade on the 14th of October, the 131st Infantry recrossed the Meuse on the 15th and 16th, remaining in the vicinity of Bethencourt and Drillancourt until October 19th when the whole regiment was relieved. Moving back through Chattancourt on the night of the 19th by battalions, the regiment hiked to Nixeville arriving on the morning of the 20th. Starting again at 2 a. m. on the morning of the 21st the move was continued to Souilly area where the regiment rested for two days. After another day's hike, regimental headquarters was established at Thillombois in th3 Tryon area. The battalions were billeted in the various towns in the area and. lines strung to regimental headquarters or connections made through the local French board. The Second Battalion was ordered to take over the front line at Woel on the 28th of October and the line was strung from Avillers to Woel to complete com- munication from the front line to regimental headquarters in the woods above St. Maurice. The 132nd Infantry relieved the Second Battalion on the twenty-ninth of October. Sergeant Davison in charge of the Third Battalion Signals at Challion was severely injured by the explosion of a mined fuse box and M. S. E. Carper of the 108th Field Signal Battalion was sent to take his place. The Second and Third Battalions were ordered in, to relieve the 132nd In- fantry on November 6th and took up a position along the St. Maurice-Hannonville line, sending out patrols every night to locate the enemy's line. Battalion head- quarters was connected to regimental headquarters, which had moved to the woods above Thillot. The Third Battalion signal detail sent two men out to Woel to send in reports from patrols over a buzzer wire to battalion headquarters at St. Maurice. The divisional observation post was connected through the second battalion switch- board and thus was enabled to keep in touch with division. The First Battalion came into position on the front line on November 7th and except for two companies of the Second Battalion the whole regiment advanced to the First Battalion on the St. Hilaire Koad on the 8th of November, and to the second St. Hilaire road on the 9th, encountering more opposition as they progressed. The battalion signal details followed their respective headquarters and laid wires frorii their previous stations. When the attack on Harville and Butgneville woods was made on the 10th, the First and Third Battalions, signal details suc- ceeded in putting in telephone communications to their respective units on the same night. These details operated from a relay station established at Woel. The battalion headquarters were located in the neighborhood of St. Hilaire. The Seoond Battalion detail did not succeed in establishing communication for their battalion until after the armistice was declared at eleven o'clock on the morning 228 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. SAML. C. DAVIS 1918 of November 11th. All battalions were moved back to the St. Maurice-Hannon- ville line the same night. After the signing of the armistice, the number of signalmen at each battalion was reduced to five men and the remainder of the platoon was billeted near regi- mental headquarters above Thillot. On the 26th of November, headquarters com- pany was moved into the town of Hannonville and remained there until December 7th. The regiment started on its march towards Germany on December 7th and hiked for six consecutive days, being billeted at night in the towns of Mars-le-Tour, Moinville, Mancieulles, Serrouville, Schitflange and Syren. En route, messages and field orders were transmitted by runner, mounted orderly or dispatch rider to the units. At Syren, the regiment rested for a day and telephone com- munication was established to the units in the town and to the Second Battalion lo- cated at Contern. Leaving a detail to pick up the lines at Syren on the 14th the company con- tinued the march and arrived at Ehnen on the Moselle River. The following day the Moselle River was crossed and the signal platoon together with the regiment proceeded to Saarburg in Germany. After a stay of two days in Beurig-Saarburg during which time communication was kept with Brigade and two of the Battalions the Company moved back to Ehnen where they stayed for a period of three more days. A detail was left in Beurig-Saarburg to pick up the lines and while at Ehnen telephone communication was established with all three Battalions. Leaving a de- tail to pick up the lines at Ehnen the company left there on the twentieth of De- cember and hiked to Larochette, Luxembourg. The other units of the regiment were billeted in adjacent towns in Luxembourg and Belgium. Field lines connected the units nearest regimental headquarters and communica- tion with the more distant units over civilian lines during our stay in Larochette. NARRATIVE OF FIRST LIEUTENANT SAMUEL C. DAVIS Among those who constituted the advance party of the Thirty-third Division — thirteen oflScers and thirteen N. C. O.'s — I embarked on the U. S. S. S. George Washington, May 8th, 1918. The eight days in crossing had a submarine scare to remind us that beneath the dark blue ocean lurked the enemy — otherwise the trip was like a pleasure voyage. May 18th found us in the Pontanezen Barracks at Brest. Three days later the party departed for Abbey ville; at first the quaint French train afforded us amusement but at night we longed for the good old Pull- mans of the Northwestern. Major Barber, Q. M. C, was in charge of the detachment until arrival in Brest when command was taken by Captain Beaty of a machine gun battalion. At Eouen our coach was hooked up to an ammunition train going to Amiens where we saw for the first time the havoc wrought by enemy shelling. We arrived at Abbeyville the same day and slept that night in the British Officers' Club r;nd experienced one of Jerry's air raids at ten o'clock that night. We reported on the morning of the 24th to division headquarters, which was about six kilos southwest of Abbeyville. Each oflficer and non-eommissiolned officer was given the duty of billeting for their respective battalions. Shortly after the regi- ment arrived in the area and was again moved west, the Third Battalion was located at Melleville. Here, after about two weeks ' training with British instructors, we moved east to Pierregot in the Albert Sector. Here we also had British instruc- tors and had the benefit of occupying the trenches i(n front of Albert a few times. 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. SAML. C. DAVIS 229 ATTACK ON HAMEL Two companies from the 132nd Infantry and two from the 131st Infantry were chosen to make an attack on Hamel. Companies C and E' from the 131st Infantry were brigaded with the 42nd and 43rd Australian Battalions. On June 29th each company reported to its respective battalion as mentioned above; on June 30th and July 1st one platoon from each company of Americans was attached to one company of Australians for instruction in the stunt which was to take place on July 4th and here we learned the operation of tanks. On July 2nd we marched from Cardonette and Allonville through Corbie to the front line trenches in front of Hamel. We started at two o'clock, had supper on the banks of the Somme, rested a few hours, arriving on the front line- about one p. m. We remained in the trenches July 3rd, the entire line was quiet all day. At ten p. m. I took the platoon sergea'nt and my orderly and went on a patrol; we left the front line at ten p. m. and reconnoitered the position my platoon was to take at 12:30, in preparation for the attack. I returned to our front line at 11:30, assembled my platoon and guided it to our position about 100 yards in front of our front line trenches, six hundred yards directly west of Hamel. Here we deployed into five combat groups and lay down to await the zero hour. The formation of the 42nd Battalion was as follows: The first or assaulting wave consisted of two platoons from each company deployed in a single line at five pace intervals; following the assaulting wave at 20 paces were the other two platoons in the same companies deployed in single squad columns at about fifteen paces; then came the support companies de- ployed in two lines of single columns at thirty pace intervals. Zero hour was at 3:10 a. m. on July 4th; all companies of the Forty-third bat- talion were at the jumping off place at 12:30; at 3:08 a. m. a smoke barrage was put down 100 yards in front of our position in order to screen our movements from the enemy. The smoke barrage lasted two minutes; then a rolling barrage fell in front of our position, lifted 100 yards in advance, successively lifted nine times. When it fell the tenth time it held for ten minutes which permitted another bat- talion to go thru the forty-third and mop-up the town of Hamel; then the barrage lifted four times at four minute intervals. The objective was a high hill 2,000 yards from our old front line positions and was reached in good time. The attack had been well planned and we did not encounter much difficulty. On the night of July 4th we easily repelled a counter-attack. We were re- lieved by an Australian battalion on the night of July 6th, returned to Pierregot and reported to regiment. Tlie Hamel attack taught us many things and we owe much to the Australian soldiers who gave us confidence and experience in the war game. I will not mention the casualties suffered by us nor the prisoners captured and material taken, owing to the fact that regiment statistics have a complete record of same. When C and E companies returned to Pierregot on July 7th we reported to division headquarters and there Major General George Bell, Jr., in command of Thirty-third Division and Brigadier General Wolf in command of the Sixty-sixth Brigade congratulated officers and men on the excellent showing they made in the first engagement in which they participated. The following are a few points showing why the attack on Hamel was an historical event. 1. It was the first offensive in 1918 after the German drive. 2. The first time that Australians and Americans were brigaded together. 3. The heaviest concentration of artillery on such a narrow point in the his- tory of the war. 4. These particular trenches had been held by Germans, French, British, Australians and finallv bv Australians and Americans. 230 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. SAML. C. DAVIS 1918 5. The four companies from the 66th brigade went into an attack just thirty- four days after arrival in France. That was sooner than any other American unit entered an attack after landing in France. ALBERT SECTOR After the Hamel attack we were located in Pierregot and during the remaining part of July the regiment gained valuable experience while occupying the Baizieux and Vaden system of the Albert sector. On August 4th the Third Battalion of the 131st Infantry was occupying the front line west of Albert. A patrol was sent out at 9:30 p. m. to locate position of enemy, it returned to our line at 12 o'clock and the officer in charge reported that the enemy had withdrawn to a position behind Albert, and was not occupying his former positions. The next night the Third Battalion moved forward to a position about a hundred yards west of Albert and into what had been the enemy's reserve trench. The battalion suffered no casualties although the enemy put over a heavy harassing fire. The same night Captain Magner and Lieutenant O'Dea with forty other ranks patrolled the city of Albert and located many enemy positions. On the night of August 4th the third Battalion was relieved by British and marched to Pierregot. The next night we started our march to the Scmme. During Chipilly Ridge action, I was on duty with Third Battalioln. I was re- lieved of duty with K Company and attached to Regimental Headquarters as regimental intelligence officer. On November 6th, 1918, Company C, 131st Infantry, was billeted west of the town of Deuxnouds with the rest of the First Battalion. The First Battalion was billeted at this place during the nights of November 5th and 6th under command of Captain Wilson. At 11:30 a. m., November 6th, 1918, I received orders from battalion commanders to prepare my company for the trenches and to be ready to march at 2:30 p. m. At 2:30 p. m. the company was assembled and marched off in the direction of the front line. "When the company arrived at St. Maurice which is about six "kilos," east of Deuxnouds, the forth platoon and kitchens were detached from the company and sent to the towtn of Billey, commanded by Corporal Wagenseller. The remainder of the company, consisting of three officers, Lieutenant Davis, Lieu- tenant Sanger and Lieutenant Hall, and seventy otlier ranks continued their march to Woel, arriving there about 6:30 p. m. The company was halted in front of the Chateau, while the officers reported to the commanding officer of Company E, 132nd Infantry to receive information as to the relief. After receiving the necessary in- formation. Company E, of the 132nd Infantry, was relieved by Company C, 131st Infantry. The relief was completed at 9:00 a. m. The front line east of Woel was held by a system of out-posts including three machine gun emplacements covering a front of about three kilometers. Liaison was established on the right by a liaison post, consisting of ten men with the 110th In- fantry of the 28th Division, commanded by Corporal Tufford, on the left liaison was established with Company L, 131st Infantry, Thirty-third Division, by a liaison patrol consisting of two men from our left outpost and two men from Company L right outpost, patrolling every two hours. In command of Posts No. 1 and 2 was Sergeant Hobscheid. In command of Post No. 3 and 4 was Sergeant Sullenberger. In Command of Posts No. 4 and 5 was Sergeant Weil. During the day Lieutenant Sanger was in charge of the out- posts, during the night Lt. Hall was in charge of the outposts. During the night the 1918 NAERATIVE OF LIEUT. SAM'L C. DAVIS 231 company commander would visit the outposts as it could not be done during the day on account of observation. In order to always be on the alert and to allow no Jerry to take us by surprise, from each outpost there was sent out a patrol consisting of from two to three men who patrolled to a distance of 500 to 700 yards in front of our outpost section. There was no enemy ever seen or heard in front of our sector, but on the night of November 8th a German band was heard playing in Jonville, which is about four kilometers east of our position, on the other side was No Man's land. On the night of November 7th a patrol consisting of three ofl&cers and about forty other ranks under command of Lieutenant O'Dea patrolled in front of our sector, leaving our lines at 12:30 a. m. November 8th, 1918. The. patrol went east along the Woel and Jonville road accompanied by Sergeant Sullenberger for a distance of about one and one-half kilometers. Then the patrol left the road and continued in a north- eastern direction of Vachere Woods. After encountering no signs of the enemy they investigated Epine woods, but found no enemy there, the patrol returned thru our lines about 4 a. m. On November 9th I received orders to have my company in readiness and when companies A, B and D arrived at Woel to have them take cover until the command- ing officer of the first battalion arrived. When the battalion commander arrived he gave us the orders for the opera- tion of the night Lieutenant Hall with twenty-seven other ranks from Company C were detached to Company A and given orders to investigate and occupy La Vachere woods, ten other men from Company C were detailed to Company B. I was left in command of Woel with the remainder of the company and also to transmit reports from the forward troops to the operations officer of the 131st Infantry, Captain Malstrom. Each company and the company commander soon left P. C. under the Chateau at Woel to go out and perform their duties as to the orders they received from the battalion commander. On the night of November 10th my outposts were withdrawn and the remainder of my company which was at Woel were used to carry ammunition and food to the forward troops thru an area covered with gas for about one-half kilometer, two men being slightly gassed. The forward troops were holding the line east of Les Haute Epines wood and Warville wood. On Nov, 10, 1918, Lieutenant Sanger, Company C was detailed to Company D and sent out with Lieutenant Dent and about fifty other ranks to establish a liaison post with 110th Infantry, 28th Division. It had been reported that the 110th Infantry had captured Jonville, but when this patrol got in touch with us, it found that their left was at the northeast corner of Voye woods, near this place the liaison post was established. Just at 11:30 a. m., November 11th, all hostility ceased. I received orders to assemble the company and move back to Hannonville. The company moved from Woel about 5:30 p. m. on November 11 and arrived at Hannonville at 8:00 p. m. During the entire operation the company only suffered three casualties, one slightly wounded and two slightly gassed. We were located at Hannonville for one month after signing of the armistice. Then our regiment started to march from Hannonville, France, to Germany on December 7th, arriving in Saarburg, Germany, December 15th. Company C re- mained at Showden two days and then returned to Oetrange, Luxembourg, re- mained for two days, left by truck for Arlon, Belgium, where we remained from 232 NARRATIVES OF LIEUTS. TILLSON AND FIEDLER 1918 December 22nd to January 28th, and then by train to Oetrange, remaining from the 28th of January to the 24th of February. We then moved to Gravenmacher, Luxem- bourg. NARRATIVE OF LIEUTENANT FRANK C. TILLSON It was a cold rainy night in October. We were lying in a tumbled in old Ger- man trench north of Consenvoye. We had attacked that morning and established our position under tire from machine guns which made any movement almost im- possible. All day long we had waited either for reinforcements so we could push forward or for the expected counter-attack, but nothing happened. It was hard. The men were tired, hungry and discouraged. Suddenly out of the darkness to our rear emerged a slowly moving body of men, each carrying a heavy burden. Rations at last: The men were quickly formed and the hot stew and coffee passed around. Good? The most famous chef France ever produced was a jjiker compared to that cook who camouflaged the ' ' bully beef ' ' for that night 's meal. I have heard of the nectar of the Gods and I've tried most of the other drinks since joining the A. E. F. but there never was and never will be a drink to compare with the coffee we had that night. With the rations came an issue of cigarettes and a big sack of mail, just to make our happiness complete. The most pleasant memory I have of the war is of sitting there in a tiny hole covered with a blanket and reading my letters by the light of a German candle. Hot food, cigarettes, and letters from home. It wasn't such a bad war after all. NARRATIVE OF LIEUTENANT RAYMOND F. FIEDLER, CO. K On October 8th, 1918, the third battalion, 131st Infantry was assembled in the Bois-de-Forges as reserve of the 132nd Infantry, which was attacking Consenvoye and the Bois-de-Chaume. The enemy probably saw movement in these woods, as he threw down on us, from time to time, searching fire from across the river near Haramount with 5.9 's and 4.2 's. The company had two men instantly killed as the result of a direct hit with a 4.2 shell, while waiting there for orders. The afternoon of the ninth of October, the battalion, carrying extra grenades and ammunition, crossed the Meuse river and occupied the old enemy trenches, south of Consenvoye. At 12:00 o'clock midnight, company commanders were as- sembled at regimental forward P. C. and were given verbal instructions as to the attack the next morning, by Colonel Sanborn. They immediately returned to their companies and took them to the forming up line. The third battalion formed on the extreme left of the regimental front, covering the Bois-de-Chaume. I Company, the right attacking company; M, the left; L Company in right support; K com- pany in left support. We formed up in this order under machine gun fire and were all set at 6:00 a. m. "H" hour was 6:05 a. m. Lieutenant Kuehne, with the first platoon, was detailed to cover the ground between the river Meuse and the edge of the Bois-de-Chaume. Shells had begun to fall on the south edge of the woods when we commenced our attack. Progress was diflicult on account of the heavy underbrush. K company went through this in squad column, arriving at the north edge of the Bois-de-Chaume at the Valley Dars-le-Vaux. Arrived there we were forced to halt as our own barrage was just hitting about 200 yards in front of us and the attacking companies were also halted ahead of us for the same reason. 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. RAYMOND F. FIEDLER 233 I allowed the attacking coniijanies to follow our barrage until they went over the crest of the hill in front of us. Then Jerry opened up on us with his barrage. The barrage hitting on the same line that the company occupied. With the com- mand "let's go," we advanced through this barrage with no casualties and were going up the hill moving to the left in order to avoid another enemy barrage, which was striking to our immediate front, about half way up the hill. ' ' There 's a Jerry," yelled one of my men, who then fired a shot in the direction of a helmet a few paces ahead and to the left of us on the southern edge of the Bois Natchet, which was a thicket of underbrush with only a few stunted trees in it. The helmet did not move. We came up to it and surprised fifteen Austrian machine gunners, with one machine gun, who had been keeping under cover from the shell fire and barrage. At this moment I realized that we were no longer in support of the attack but in front of our attacking company. I ordered the men to clean up the Bois Natchet, which we did to about 100 yards north of the woods, which was our objec- tive. We captured in all 210 prisoners which I sent to the rear in large groups, two machine guns and a minenwerfer, all in the Bois Natchet. I learned from one of the prisoners that there was one battalion of Prussian guards in the town of Sivry, 1,200 yards to our left. We had been getting machine gun fire from that direction and I located and counted forty of the Germans who seemed to be waiting to ambush some force that was coming from the north to- wards them. I afterwards learned that it was Lieutenant Kuehne's platoon that they were waiting for. They presented a very good target so we fired upon them and scattered them. There was no field of fire where we were so we entrenched on the reverse of the hill 1,200 yards east of Sivry-sur-Meuse. The afternoon of the 11th, thirteen men of "L" Company were wounded by two shells in the Bois Natchet, while the officers of the battalion were reviewing the situation. I returned to K company's position, which was about 200 yards west of L company. The same night I returned to L company and found only a few men there as the rest were used as stretcher bearers and Capt. Magner had been sent back to battalion headquarters to take command of the battalion. I company was also not where it had been that afternoon, part of it being with the first battalion, the other part was entrenching somewhere to my right rear but Lieutenants Frisbie, Emerick and myself could not find them in the dark. I decided to locate battalion headquarters and Frisbie, Emerick and myself started out in search, having been given a clue by a runner from the second bat- talion. We had been unable to reach the second battalion headquarters with messages as no one seemed to know where it was located. All messages were sent to second battalion P. C. to be forwarded. I found battalion P. C. and returned to the line. Captain Gano, in command of the line, sent me back to battalion P. C. to describe the situation and to get artillery fire on Sivry-sur-Meuse, where we had located machine gun nests. During the whole stay on the line, the Germans pounded us with artillery fire, both high explosive and gas shells. I went back to battalion P. C. and was sent to the second battalion P. C, where a meeting was being held by the majors. Reported the situation of the third battalion and got artillery fire on Sivry about 12:00 noon on the 11th. The morning of the 12th of October, the Germans advanced four ways under a heavy barrage to within 100 yards of our left front. Lieutenant Borchardt let them have some trench mortar shells which silenced them for a while. 234 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. FEANK C. ALBRIGHT 1918 NARRATIVE OF LIEUTENANT FRANK C. ALBRIGHT. After arriving in Europe with the 131st Infantry regiment we roamed over half of France in "Hommes-Forty, " and then settled down for a period of train- ing at Pierregot. It was here that we got our first taste of the line, just in front of Albert. Frequent trips to the trenches soon made us well enough acquainted with Fritz's tricks to put on a show for him, of which the Hamel stunt was the first. It was here that the lads from Illinois showed the stuff of which they were made. They were all very keen for a scrap and Jerry was the one they took it out on. After the Hamel show we had a bit more training and then went to Chipilly Ridge with the "Aussies." Before going here I had been with the third battalion as B. T. O. and helped to organize that section. On the tnight that the regiment left for the ridge I was asked by the Regimental I. O. to go along as first battalion I. O. The regiment had left about eight o'clock p. m., and this was about eleven o 'clock p. m., August 7th, 1918. After wandering about all night trying to find the first battalion I climbed into a British lorry to catch a few hours sleep. Morn- ing came and with it a good feed from a "Tommy" kitchen nearby. About noon T caught up with the battalion and reported to Captain Richmond, who was in command. It wasn't long after that that we moved off for the Baizeux sector where after much confusion we finally got settled for a rest; but the rest did not come. Instead was an order to move off and once more we were on our feet and plowing towards the line. The men were very tired and hungry and also very much "fed up" with the frequent moves and halts. We left the Baizeux sector about one o 'clock a. m. and marched through Corbie and through the Somme valley to Salley- le-Sec where we rested in an old orchard during most of the day. Here the otficers were called together and the plan of attack explained. The plans were complete enough but for some reason they did not mature. The tape that was to be our starting place was never laid, the tanks (if there were any) never got started; no one had any idea of how the ground lay nor where he was going to meet with resistance. Captain Richmond and myself started out to see if we couldn't get a line on how things looked in front, but were ordered back and told to bring up the battalion. Going back we had the battalion fall in and started for the hopping off point. As we neared the front the roads became more congested with every con- ceivable kind of gun or wagon. There were wounded coming back and supplies going up, cannon crashing, wagons rolling along with a steady rumble, men shout- ing and sweating horses straining at their tasks and huge lorries with the big motors going at top speed. This all blended into one great rumble that seemed to shake the earth. Through all this seeming confusion there was order and sys- tem. Finally we got through this kind of thing and turned off the road to our left. Here the first battalion was deployed next to the road and the second battalion on their left. We were then told to go up a very steep hill and into the woods on top. During all this, which took some time, our barrage had been falling and the Hun was stopping up steadily. There was nothing small about the size of the stuff he used. I've seen big trees cut down as neat and clean as one could cut a hair in two with a razor but the lads did not seem to mind 'em much. They went up that hill and into the wood with smiles on their faces and cigarettes in their mouths, not knowing what they were going to run into until the machine guns let them know that they had met opposition. Hell on earth is putting it mildly with what was going on on top of the ridge. The Hun had a nest of machine guns on our 1918 NAERATIVE OF LIEUT. FRANK C. ALBRIGHT 235 right aud in the village of Chipilly which was a little higher ground than that where we were. He held us here for about an hour and it was during this hour that I had an opportunity to see what kind of stuff the Yanks were made of. They had nothing to eat for nearly two days, not enough water and no sleep, besides plenty of marching. Yet they went up that hill with smiles and kept coming with smiles until the Hun was driven out of the woods and off of Chipilly Ridge. Even the wounded came back with smiles on their faces and shouted words of encour- agement to their comrades who were in support awaiting their turn to be at the Hun. We reached the Somme river about 8:30 p. m. and dug in for the night. This was on August 9th, 1918, and on the morning of August 10th we got our first rations which were brought up in rolling kitchens and dished out to the men. Not all of them got rations, because we had received orders to push off again, so once more we were on our way to Berlin with empty stomachs. This was about four o'clock a. m. on August 10th, 1918. We turned at right angles to the Somme river and pushed through Malard woods until we reached the other side of it. Here we made a line from the river to the Bray-Corbie road, we weren't there long before our own artillery let a lot of stuff down on us and we had to shut them off before they hurt some one. I think we advanced a little too fast for them and therefore ran into our own shelling. From here we made another advance to the ridge just out of Bray and right along the Somme river. All of this netted us a goodly bag of prisoners and guns, also a lot of Hun equipment. After reaching the ridge be- tween Eitnehem and Bray along the Somme we dug in and put up a battalion P. C. at an old well just out of Eitnehem. The Hun had left some very good dugouts here also this well which had the best water in it I ever drank in France. From this P. C. we carried on for four or five days, doing the usual duty that is required of a battalion in the line. One evening we received a batch of papers telling about the Illinois boys on the Somme and a Yank lad was reading his copy to a group of Aussies who were gathered around him. There were about twenty men in the group all very much interested in what the Yank was reading when suddenly a shell dropped in their midst wounding and killing fourteen of them, also killing a Boche horse that was tied about twenty yards away. The Yank that was reading the paper never got a scratch and he was standing in the place where the shell struck. I think that is the most freakish shell I ever saw. The next evening just after mess (which happened to be very good for some reason or other) we were sitting around a Hun table in front of our dugout when he dropped one out of a clear sky and knocked me for a "blighty. " Luckily I was the only one hit so not much damage was done. This happened on the sixteenth of August, 1918. They lost no time in get- ting m.e out of there. I was chucked in an ambulance and started for the rear. On our way out we had to wait until he stopped shelling the road with gas. We wore our masks for a mile or more and if one has never rode in an ambulance jolting in shell holes in the middle of the night and shells bursting all around them unable to move or duck them they cannot realize what it is. It's enough to turn one's hair gray and I know that it made me at least ten years older. Well any- way we finally arrived at the base hospital and things began to look better. We had plenty to eat and drink, the best care in the world and good looking nurses. It was here that we decided that the war wasn 't so bad after all. In the hospital we received the papers telling us about the Yanks and their gains which made us anxious to get back at his throat again. But they would not have it so, instead came the day of days (the eleventh of November, 1918) and I in London. 236 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. WILLIAM GARY SANGER, JR. 1918 The joy of the British knew no bounds and for one solid week they carried on. Never will I forget that week in London and how the people felt that once more they were to have peace and plenty. We of America cannot realize what these people over here have gone through during the last four years and how much more they have suffered. On the seventeenth of November, 1918, I received my discharge from the hos- pital at Lancaster Gate, London, under orders to report to Winchester, England, to the commanding officer of the American camp there. After a week in Win- chester I was sent to Liverpool and booked to sail for home. Lieutenant King of the 27th Division and I asked to be sent back to our units which request was granted. We left Liverpool with four hundred casuals bound for Le Mans, France. In due course we arrived at Le Mans where we spent a week or ten days and our ways oarted, he for his unit and I for mine. At Le Mans there were a great many men of the Thirty-third Division who came back to their respective units on the same train that we did. We spent Christmas day at Neufchateau and thanks to that excellent organization the American Red Cross we had turkey and pie for dinner. On the twenty-eighth of December, 1918, we arrived at Mersch, Luxem- bourg and then to our different organizations. We spent a pleasant winter in the peaceful village of Larochette, Luxem- bourg, waiting for the time when the big order would come (that of sending us home). At last it has come and we are on our way to America where they grow men that fight with a smile on their faces and know neither fear nor retreat, men that have never once taken a step in retreat, men who have achieved the seem- ingly impossible. Thank God that it is ended and no more of these splendid lads will have to die fighting a beast that has neither brains nor morals. NARRATIVE OF FIRST LIEUTENANT WILLIAM GARY SANGER, JR. It was my privilege to see active duty with the 131st Infantry, A. E. F., dur- ing the last few weeks of the war and during the long months of the armistice period which followed the cessation of active fighting. When I first joined the Thirty-third Division the troops were stationed a short distance back of the lines in the Troyon Sector after their victories at Verdun. I was assigned to Company C, of the first battalion, and we spent the time in drilling and training. Later we moved up into the lines. I will never forget the long columns of our "doughboys" marching silently onward towards the front. Through shattered towns they marched, where gaunt, half crumbled walls and chimneys stood forlorn and desolate among the ruins, and onward along the road that led to the lines — a dreary road across the lonely rolling plains. After a time we came to the former trenches and zigzag lines of rusty barbed wire where the battle line had previously stood before the great Saint Mihiel drive had forced the Germans to fall back. Our regiment went into the front lines in the Woevre plain and Company C took over the outposts in front of the town of Woel. Lieu- tenant S. C. Davis was in command of the company and Lieutenant B. F. Hall and I were the only other officers present with the company at the time as the rest had been wounded in previous battles. While we were in the line at Woel the weather was for the most part overcast and misty and the ground very muddy. At irregular intervals during the day and night the artillery on either side awoke the stillness of the plain and now and then we heard the rattle of machine gun fire. Our out- 1918 NAERATIVE OF LIEUT. HOWAED C. WILLIAMS 237 posts consisted of a series of muddy trenches but despite the weary hours of waiting in the mud and the cold the men were uncomplaining and as cheerful as could be expected. The American "doughboy" always seems to retain his sense of humor even under the most disagreeable conditions. This quality and his courage carry him through any and all difficulties. On November 10th I received orders to lead a platoon from Company D and about fourteen men from the 124th Machine Gun Battalion (with two machine guns) and to connect up with the 110th Infantry regiment of the 28th Division which was on our right. Lieutenant M. E. Dent of Company D, went with me. We, accordingly, advanced with our platoon and the two machine guns beyond our outpost lines and established connection with the 110th Infantry on our right. That night we slept on the ground. During the night the fourteen men from the 12-4th Machine Gun Battalion were relieved by an equal number of men from the 131st Machine Gun Company. During the early hours of the morning (November 11th) some German shells landed near us but none of our men were hurt. Later we took up a new position on the extreme left of the 110th regiment and established our machine guns. After ten a. m. the sound of the artillery fire increased and just before eleven a. m. the woods and plain far and wide reverberated with the intermittent rolling and concussion of the guns. And then, at eleven a. m., the tumult suddenly died away and all was still. The armis- tice had come and the world war was over. In the afternoon I received an order from Lieutenant Davis to bring my platoon back to the battalion, after notifying the 110th regiment. I accordingly did this and as we marched back in the gather- ing darkness we could see the flares and rockets and star-shells of all colors soar- ing up into the sky along the length of the front as far as the eye could see. It was a strange and wonderful sight — those clusters and flares of light that rose high into the air in the stillness of that November evening. I think that every soldier who saw them felt that they were the first celebrations of a new and better era of peace which was to come to the entire world. Looking backward on the events of the war we can see with rejoicing that the sacrifices have not been in vain for the victory of the allied armies has made the world "safe for democracy" and the children of future ages shall be spared those iong unquiet years of war through which this generation has just passed. America's part in the great struggle shall be a source of pride and inspiration not only to all future generations of Americans but to the entire world as well for by her courage and sacrifices she has bequeathed to humanity a greater and a lasting measuj'e of freedom. NARRATIVE OF FIRST LIEUTENANT HOWARD H. WILLIAMS. In the latter part of June, 1918, after reporting to my battalion "C. O." for duty, I was detailed to take charge of the Third Battalion Transport. A transport is not a part of a battalion in the states, but is necessary when the companies are as large as they were in this war. A transport consists of some fifty horses and mules, some wagons, water carts and cookers. Some people seem to think that a transport don't amount to much, I'ut there is always plenty of work to be done with it and while the shells were flying, there were a lot of men asking if there was a chance to get into it. When I looked over things the first morning to my surprise, I was informed by a British officer (being detailed to instruct us in the uses of the transport) that I had a good bomb-proof job if I worked it right. This job did not seem to work 238 NARRATIVE OF LIEUT. HOWARD C. WILLIAMS 1918 out that way for on my first time going up to the lines we were shelled some, and when we were coming back a Tommy asked one of the drivers if he could ride in the limber. The driver said it was O. K. with him, so in he got. He had not ridden very far when the shells began to fall near the road, but that didn't stop the driver. A little further on a shell landed about twenty-five feet from the team and then things happened, parts of the shell hit the horses and off they started. By the time they were under control and the driver looked for the Tommy in the limber, he heard him groaning, he stopped his team and asked if he was hit, the man said something, but was not understood. Just then a British transport officer rode up and inquired if anything was wrong, and the driver explained things to him. This officer looked the Tommy over and found that he was badly wounded, so they turned back and took the soldier to a first aid station that they had passed and before thsy reached the place the man was dead. The piece of shell that hit this man, cut away half of a spoke in the wheel and made a hole clear through the box of the wagon. The next morning we found that the horse had to be evacuated, because he was injured by a piece of steel that had lodged in his shoulder, that would have to be removed to save the horse. This was the only horse in my trans- port that I lost by shell fire, but we were always on the job with the chow and ammunition just the same. While our battalion was in the lines at Chipilly, I had my transport in the first town from there, it being ground that Jerry had just evacuated a day or so before. I thought that my tent would not go bad so I had it put up, and it made quite a home for a day or so. One night after returning from the line, we liad just tied the horses on the picket line when we heard Jerry's bombing plane coming, and we were getting ready for bed. I went to my tent and just then Jerry hung out a lamp and started dropping his messages. It seemed like as if he was coming our way. In a little while he dropped a few more, these landed near us and a few of the boys came over to my tent and asked me if I was still alive, as one dropped so close they thought it had surely hit my tent. Next morning we were awakened very early by shells dropping close to us, so we got up and moved away for awhile, then he stopped so we went along with our work just as if nothing happened. In a couple of hours he tossed over a few more, these came nearer our place so the men moved again. They hadn't more than cleared the place with the horses, leaving everything else, when a shell dropped in one of the holes the boys had dug to sleep in, and blankets, mess kits and toilet articles were seen flying in all directions. After the boys had reached the west bank of the Meuse river, and things looked rather bad along the grub line, I was started that way one morning with orders to go into Gercourt. Lucky for us that it was foggy that morning as we would never have reached that far, for when we reached Forges, we found the engineers working on a bridge and their wagon was stuck. We hooked on and gave them a lift. Their wagon was heavily loaded with material for bridges, and when this wagon hit the bridge they had just finished, it slid the bridge out of place, so we were held up until it was rebuilt, this took an hour or so. While we were waiting there along came the colonel and he began to "cuss" because of the delay but it still stayed foggy. About noon we were on our way again, and decided we had better pull up and have a bite or two and feed the horses. About 1:30 we started over the hill near Bethencourt in plain observation 1917 NAEEATIVE OF THE LIGHT TEENCH MOETAE PLATOON 239 of five. German captive balloons, but we went along paying no heed to them. That night we made our camp in Forges woods but moved back near Bethencourt the next morning. That night was sure a warm one and the shells dropped very close, one shell nearly buried Lieutenant O'Malley and myself. The mail corporal who was with us was doing his sleeping under a wagon woke up with a start as one dropped near him forgetting he was sleeping under the wagon tried to sit up, but took over half the skin off of his nose. The funny thing that happened to me was when we were stationed on the east of the Meuse, near Consenvoye, while Corporal Sackett and I were riding along the road after looking over the ground to put the cookers nearer for the boys when they came out of the line that night. We were talking about what kind of souve- nirs we were going to take along home with us and we were not paying any atten- tion to where the shells were hitting, until one landed along side of the road. This shell picked my horse up, turned us around and then dropped us in the mud. The horse tried to get up a couple of times, but didn't seem to be able, but finally did get upon its feet, then it started to run just as hard as it could, but not very far. Sackett and I got the horse and started to walk the other way, and Jerry began dropping them along the road the same way so we decided to get on our horses and ride the other way which was towards the picket line. We had no more than started that way and Jerry played the road that way, but we didn 't lose any time getting over the road. That night I located the souvenir I wanted to keep and it was my steel helmet which was issued to me at Camp Upton, but I will say, without brag- ging that I had a good lot of men in my transport, if not the best in the division. NARRATIVE OF THE LIGHT TRENCH MORTAR PLATOON. The Bombers and Sappers platoon, or, as more commonly known — the Trench Mortar platoon — had its origin with the reorganization of the Headquarters com- pany in October, 1917. A number of officers and N. C. O.s were sent to the division trench mortar school at Camp Logan, conducted by a British officer, assisted by a sergeant of Kitchener's "Hundred-Thousand." The officer. Captain (later Major) Barlow, was an exceedingly capable instructor, a true type of the English officer, a strict disciplinarian, cold, reserved and rather inclined to cynicism. At first his pupils found it difficult to understand him or to willingly lend themselves to !^he spirit of the strict British discipline that he enforced. We had no guns and had to get along with dummy substitutes of wood. Later a makeshift mortar was made at a local foundry and we received most of our preliminary instruction with the aid of this gun. Major Barlow found it difficult to find men to suit his requirements, and both officerc and men were frequently returned to their companies and replaced by new material. At last after six weeks' of efforts men were found who seemed to come up to his requirements and of the 131st Infantry, Lieutenant H. B. Crow, Sergeant E. C. Borchardt and S?rgeant J. C. Perrie were selected as a nucleus around which our battery was subsequently formed. After a rigorous trial men from the various companies of the regiment were selected and given a thorough course of training, later being transferred to the battery. A change in the organization having gone into effect Lieutenant Crow was commissioned first lieutenant and placed in com- mand of the battery, and Sergeant Borchardt received his commission as second lieutenant, being second in command. A system of trenches for our use having been constructed near the divisional 240 XAKRATIVE OP' THE LIGHT TRENCH MORTAR PLATOON 1918 artillery range our battery moved out there with the batteries of the other in- fantry regiments for an advanced course of instruction, remaining there until the division was ready to embark for overseas service. Here we established a model camp of our own, each battery with its individual mess administration. Having by this time received two Stokes Mortars and a supply of ammunition we were able to make rapid progress in our work, and by the time the division was ready to embark were as thoroughly trained as it was possible to be without having been actually under fire. Who will ever forget tlie long journey to Camp Ujaton, the days on the monster steamship Leviathan, the skirmish with the submarines, the first sight of tlie coast of France, the final arrival at Brest and the march to the barracks? A few days after debarking we entrained with headquarters company for Oisemont from whence we hiked to Caumont, and from there to Frucourt. Part of the battery was then sent to St. Quentin Lamote to join the 30th (British) Light Trench Mortar training cadre, and when subsequently the company moved to Le Mesnil Raume the rest of the battery hiked to the same place, where a great deal of actual firing was done. Our stay here was abruptly ended when the regi- ment was ordered to Pierregot, and we made the long day's ride to that town in the famous London omnibuses. Owing to the concentration of troops in this area which was but a few miles from the lines, we were unable to get billets and were obliged to pitch our shelter tents in a pasture under the protection of some trees. The Boche planes were known to fly over this vicinity frequently, and we were soon to be made rudely aware of this fact, for a few nights later, a Hun night bombing expedition made things pretty lively around our town, and his visits were vather more frequent than we thought necessary. While at Pierregot, we made frequent hikes to the reserve sectors, behind the lines taking positions in the Vaden Baizieux and La Houssaye systems. In July we were sent to Bruttels, near St. Valerie on the Atlantic coast for further firing practice and on returning were given our first and last taste of trench warfare, when we went up in the trenches before Albert with the British, and later took up positions with the regiment in defense of the Baizieux Sector moving forward on August 7th in that memorable march tliat took our regiment into the Gressaire Wood and Chipilly Ridge engage- ments, where it so gloriously distinguished itself. During the process of consoli- dation after the battle our battery took up positions near the Bray-Corbie road near the left flank of the regiment, ready to assist in repelling any counter attack the Hun might have the temerity to launch. Later we relieved the 13th Aus- tralian Light Trench Mortar battery which was holding positions covering un- protected portions of our regimental front. We were finally relieved on August 19th by the 11th Australian Light Mortar battery and bidding good-bye to our friends the ' ' Tommies ' ' and ' ' Aussies ' ' proceeded to Hamel where we joined Headquarters company bivouaced for the night. August 20th found us hiking to Aubigny where we remained one night and the next day moved on to Poulainville and then to the historic city of Amiens which we had helped to free from the menace of tlie Hun artillery. Here we entrained and on August 22nd arrived at Ligny and marched to the pleasant little city of Salmagne where we remained for about two weeks, spending the time in maneuvers and range practice to meet the conditions of open warfare. Here we were preparing ourselves for the great Argonne-Meuse offensive. September 7th we left by motor truck for the old French camp at Bailecourt and a few days later moved a short distance further and camped in a beautiful 1918 NAEEATIVE OF SGT. WALTER D. CORNING 241 little wood near rromerville. It was so peaceful and quiet here that it was hard to believe that only two or three miles further north lay the front line, and the famous Le Mort Homme where two years before the terrible struggle for the possession of Verdun took place. While at Delolime woods we received the much needed replacements to fill the gaps caused by our casualties at Chipilly Ridge and Gressaire woods and every spare moment was given over to instructing them in their new work, although handicapped by the fact that it rained nearly every day, and we could not move out of the woods except in very small parties. During the daylight hours the roads were blocked with traffic, tractors hauling huge guns, cannons with ammunition and sujaj^lies toiled endlessly forward to their pre- arranged positions in readiness for the huge conflict that was to come. On the night of September 22nd we moved up in a driving rain to our posi- tions to wait for the attack. The night was pitch dark, the roads blocked with traffic and columns of troops. Daylight was just breaking when the last of our battery jumped into the sheltering trench. The days were spent in bringing up ammunition and on the night of September 25th we moved forward with the bat- talions we were to support to the jumping off trenches and on the morning of the 26th we went over with our regiment. Efficient support was given by the de- struction of several machine gun nests holding up the advance of part of our third battalion and we were also of a great deal of assistance to a battalion of the Eightieth Division on our left, by destroying machine guns that were blocking their advance. Arriving at our objective, positions were taken up on the left flank of our regiment in expectation of a counter-attack which never materialized. We remained in these positions until October 8th when one section moved y cross the Meuse with the second battalion to support them in the Bois de Chaume offensive. On October 9th the rest of the battery entered Forges Woods and cross- ing the Meuse with the flrst and third battalions were of great assistance to them (in their Attack of the 10th. After our last objective had been reached several guns were used in harrassing the enemy working parties who attempted to improve their positions on our front. October 16th we were relieved from the front and remained in reserve until the 18th when we commenced our long march to Thillem- bois. Arriving there on October 23rd we remained there until November 1st and then joined the third battalion at Chaillon, moved forward with this battalion on the night of November 5th and relieved the 132nd Infantry trench mortar battery at Hannonville and St. Maurice in the line of resistance. The battery accom- panied the second and third battalions on November 9th in the Bois de Warville attack. On the night of November the 11th we moved back to Thillot and then to Hannonville, where we salvaged the great store of munitions the Boche had left there. On December 6th we accompanied the regiment on that memorable march into Germany, and then back to Luxembourg to the Village of Larochette, which we reached on December 20tli. NARRATIVE OF SERGEANT WALTER D. CORNING THE NARROW GAUGE There were a great many places where the thin ribbons of narrow gauge were spread and torn from shell-flre, but where the little track ran through the hills in front of Chattancourt it was in pretty good condition and able to stand the strain placed on it. This track made a big circle up the steep hills and down again behind the lines, where ammunition, supplies and rations were hauled day and night to the .Sig. 20 242 NAEEATIVE OF SGT. WALTER D. CORNING 1918 communicating trench where waited details to carry the supplies to the men in the line. It was a busy little road, especially at night when men and mules tugged bravely away at the big load piled on the cars, and cursed the spread rails when their cars overturned dumping the load in the mud; or another train coming in the opposite direction always leading to an argument as to which party should lift their cars off the track to allow the other to pass. Going uphill was a task that tested the strength, grit and endurance of any man, but going downhill it was a world of fun to start from the top and coast down to the end of the line three miles away, taking recklessly at forty miles an hour the dangerous sharp curves. The French went very slowly and carefully on this downward trip but the merry, laughing Yanks shouted with glee as they sped toward their destination. THE DUN MULES ADVENTURE I was ordered to report to the ration dump near Chattancourt at 10:30 every night with a detail of ten men to get my rations for the following day. It was easy enough to get this detail from the line for every man knew what tremendous fun he could have on this detail, and, besides, it would be a welcome relief to be able to get out and stretch and run without any special danger from Fritz. On the twenty-fourth of September, just before the hop-over, things did not run very evenly on this little Twentieth Century Limited. A French artilleryman with a load of seventy-five shells had captured a roaming mule on this morning to help him reach his battery. This mule had evidently gone for two or three days without his rati&itg and he refused to walk more than fifteen feet at a time, and having reached a point half way up the hill, he calmly laid down and in this manner signified the fact that he was through. The Frenchman beat and kicked and pounded away at tlie mule but the latter merely blinked his eyes and wagged his ears as though stating in this way that it was useless — he was through and that was all there was to it. So the Frenchman cut the harness from the mule (a bit of rope) and vainly struggled with his "75's" but the load was too much for him and finally he let go in disgust, and the little car started on its downward trip to the supply dump, gaining speed every instant. Needless to say the car with its load of "75's" caused much consternation to every party upward bound who barely had time, to lift their trucks off the track before the wild "75's" sped by, but one sleepy Frenchman was not quick enough in removing his load and the collision that followed caused more damage than a battery of whizzbangs. This seemed to put a hoodoo on that line for the day because there were many accidents and it was nothing to see a Yank carried away with a sprained or broken ankle as a result of his chute-the-chutes. Our cooks had to go half way to the ra,tion dump for their water and the first trip they made that day with two trucks loaded with water containers got away from them and started on a journey of destruction. Coming up the track was a Frenchman driving a mule with a load of heavy corrugated iron. He heard the water containers rattling down toward him but saw his fate too late. He shouted to his mule and managed to swing the animal clear of the track before the collision. The corrugated iron and water con- tainers went up in the air and the mule was jerked backward off his feet. The Frenchman cursed the cooks but that didn't do any good because they couldn't understand French anyway. THE LUCKY WRECK At ten o'clock that night my detail of ten men reported and we climbed onto oiir trucks and started after the rations. It was a bright moonlight night, thank 1918 NARRATIVE OF SGT. WALTER D. CORNING 243 goodness for that, and we could see well ahead of us. Each car had a brake and a good strong man was watching each one to prevent any further accidents. With eleven men on those two little cars we picked up speed in a hurry, and, fortunatelyj there was no one in our way so we were a little lax in watching our brakes. On, on, we sped, shouting and yelling as we gained momentum. We made the first two turns in great shape, leaning far to the left as we did so to keep the cars on the track. Then followed a steeper grade, and, breathlessly, we hit the toboggan, just as Eritz started to throw a few shells on the track further down. We were so busy figuring our chances with the shells as to nearly forget the next sharp curve we were approaching. We were now traveling nearly fifty miles an hour and with a little apprehension the men on the brakes started to apply them. If we didn 't make that turn on the bridge it meant going into the eight foot ditch, and if we did make it, we had the little barrage to consider. The men pushed harder on the brakes but the trucks did not slacken; there wasn't even a grinding to tell us they touched the wheels and we realized they were broken and useless. So we, not very calmly, held our breath to see how we made out. Quarter of a mile awaiy, then an eighth, then a few hundred feet — then it came. With a crash the trucks jumped the track, capsized and down into the ditch we went, with the 250 pound trucks on top cf us. There was just a mass of legs, arms, heads and helmets all tangled up. After we had extricated ourselves there followed a hurried roll call to see how many had been killed. I cannot understand yet how it was no one was seriously injured, but anyway, we hauled up the trucks from the ditch and were just about to start again, for Jerry's little barrage had lifted, when we heard a beautiful cursing that only an experienced "skinner" can render, and we stared in amazement at four mules tugging away for dear life on six cars of ammunition that was being hauled to the line. If we hadn't gone into the ditch WEST VIRGINIA LUCK On November 24th we were policing up the hills around Hannonville when one of our new men, a big husky farmer from West Virginia, solemnly picked up a dud, almost as large as himself, put it on his back, carried it to the dump, calmly drop- ped it and walked off. Had he known his danger the thing would probably have exploded. One day after the August 9th stunt about twelve cooks from various companies in the regiment were swimming in the Somme when some Aussies threw a few smoke bombs into the water. The very much concerned cooks thought they were gas bombs and scrambled for the bank where a lone gas mask lay. IT'S FUNNY NOW! It is seldom an entire battalion is mad at the same time about the same thing, but on October 20th, after we had been hiking all night and all of the previous day, it happened. On these long hikes it was customary to stop around midnight long enough to serve hot coffee. On this particular night the coffee was steaming away and the very odor of that coffee was the only thing that kept me on my feet and I feel pretty sure that it had the same effect on every man who got a whiff of it. Hot coffee served in the middle of a hike when it's cold and raining will brace up any man. Our company was the only one that had the sugar handy — all the other companies in the battalion had their sugar at the bottom of their limber where they couldn't get it without unloading the limber and there wash't time for that. So every company came to us for sugar when it came to serve the coffee. 244 NARRATIVE OF SGT. WALTER D. CORNING 19181918 We first put sugar in our coffee, then gave the sack to the next company to pass ou — our sugar was used in the coffee every company made that night. I tasted the coffee with a great deal of anticipation, then spit it out with a howl — our kitchen was the only one that also had the salt handy, too. I will not repeat what the major said about our cooks. "SPIES," SEZ I On October 29th when our company was in front of Woel and our kitchen was back in Avillers, a town then only recently evacuated by the Huns, I was very much startled to see a man and woman walking down the street which was under direct observation of a Fritz balloon. The man wore a silk hat. Prince Albert coat, trou- sers that had just been pressed, and he carried a cane. The lady wore a tailored suit, a large hat with two red plumes and carried an umbrella. They walked cas- ually along toward the front and I made after them. "Spies," said I to myself, and I determined to learn their identity. At that moment the lady tripped and fell. I saw something that strangely resembled a spiral puttee protruding from her skirt. At that minute the man turned around with a grin on his face and I recog- nized two of my mischievous cooks. PAGING SHERLOCK HOLMES! If any one of the Ringling Brothers knew of the abilities of some of our star cooks we'd probably lose 'em. On our trip to Metz we drew rations for the day a few minutes before we started hiking immediately after breakfast. This gave us no time to peel potatoes or cut up the beef. At noon we halted for the noon mess, and it was always ready on time. Now we had no time to prepare the dinner be- fore we started, and whenever the column halted for a ten minute rest in every hour the cooks were always glad to rest too, so that no preparations were made for mess during these periods. The question is, how did the cooks peel the pota- toes a:id cut up the beef while the column was hiking along and the transport was moving with it ? We '11 leave the mystery for you to solve. We did it. THE MIDNIGHT PROWLERS When our battalion was up in the Albert sector we were always assured of a lively time when taking up the rations, for Jerry knew every road like a book and he had plenty of bombing machines in good working order, nor was he a bit bashful in using them. On July .31st when our kitchen was located in Warloy, our acting supply sergeant had gone up with the rations (we took turns), and after an inter- esting time he got back at two o'clock in the morning for a peaceful sleep. As a side issue we had two tons of live grenades in our billet. At 2:15 a. m. Jerry came over in force after spending the entire night in trying to get us angry with an occasional bomb. This time he was trying to locate some British guns a few hun- dred yards away from our kitchen. The Fritz ammunition workers must have stayed up all of the previous night making bombs because Jerry was very careless with them, dropping his "eggs" left and right. We heard them all around us in the distance and our interest was aroused when he came toward our quiet sector. We were very quiet. The searchlights played on one of his planes and then the Lewis opened up on liini, the tracer bullets making a streak of blue in the air. Fritz showed his disdain for this jjerformance by dropping a bomb close enough 1918 NARRATIVE OF SGT. WALTER D. CORNING 245 to put the big light nearest us out of commission. Presently the drone of his engines came nearer and nearer and likewise the bombs. He dropped three in a row, each one a little closer and we figured the fourth one was not going to miss us by very far. And it didn't. We heard the torpedo come down with a terrible whistle and I frankly state that my skin shrank and I curled up into a ball. Everything in my past came before me in that flash of time as well as the thought of all those grenades in our billet. The torpedo hit with a mighty explosion that threw me off my second-story wire birth and half the roof caved in on top. The supply sergeant also wont down in a heap under the debris. It took but an instant to slip on our shoes and go outside to see the extent of the damage. The air was filled with dust for a hundred feet around us and at first we could see nothing and could realize but little more. In the midst of the excitement one of our cooks appeared fully clothed, aimed with helmet and gas mask, but minus his shoes. He was run- ning around, terrified, trying to locate his shoes and at the same time shouting "Wait for me, wait for me," though none of us had any intention of leaving. We had now recovered sufficiently from the shock to examine the spot where the torpedo hit. It was pitch dark and we could hardly breathe because of the dust, but we made our way through wrecked buildings and found a Tommy crying with pain. He was pretty well cut up and we sent him to the hospital, and pulled out another Tommy, but this man was very still and quiet. There was no sleep for us that night, and at the first break of day we again went to the spot where the torpedo landed. It struck forty feet from the kitchen, where our billet was and the only thing that saved us was an immense British mess hall made of heavy corrugated iron. This was torn and mangled and resembled nothing. Parts of it, weighing several hundred pounds we found on top of a tree nearly fifty yards away. Six houses were very much damaged and three of these were complete wrecks, showing that the torpedo was one of unusually large dimensions. It cut a tree three feet in diameter, twist- ing it off as though it were a match, and dug a hole twelve feet deep with as big a diameter. At the time we could see no humor in the affair, but afterward we could look back and laugh at the cook who was clothed and wearing helmet and gas mask, trying to find his shoes. And while we laugh at this, we still remember the moans and cries of the wounded Tommy, whose funeral we attended that afternoon. Army regulations do not require that cooks drill, Init wlicn the regimental row of kitchens was located on a flat area (something unusual in France") after the August 9th stunt, and just before the kitchens moved up, I saw the prettiest skirmish line of running cooks imaginable; they had not been drilling, but the alignment was perfect. At about 11 p. m. that night Jerry came over and spiUed a few "eggs" a quarter of a mile away. Of course we were all interested, for he was coming in our direction. No one moved, everyone was tense, waiting to see where the next one would land. Then the Fritz airman dropped a hook-light that illuminated our little area. That light seemed to be the signal for everybody to get up and run in the same direction. About two hundred shoeless cooks, "K. P. 's" and "skinners," started off as in a one-hundred yard dash. Nobody knew where he was going or how long it would take to get there. They double-timed across a stubble field in their stocking feet which, under normal conditions they would never have done for the stubbles hurt. They dived into shell holes, not knowing whether they were filled with water or men and many a toe found somebody 's eye for a resting place, many ankles were turned and sprained in the rush, and a good many faces were bruised when a number of sleeping men did not know of the excitement until they were walked oin. 246 NARRATIVE OF CORPORAL A. O. TORSET 1918 NABRATIVE OF CPL. A. O. TORSET IN COMMAND OF DETACHMENT OF CO. G, CAPTURED BY THE GERMANS OCT. 9, 1918 First platoon of Co. G, 131st Infantry, commanded by Lt. Cruse advanced thru Bois De Chaume (having no connection with right or left flank). Outside of woods met Major Gal? of 132d Infantry, ordering us to go up and support Co. E, 132d In- fantry, who were being flainked by the Germans. We moved forward to their right flank on a high ridge. We had hardly dug in when the Germans counter-attacked, but were beaten back. At this time word was passed along to hold on, as reinforcements were on the way up. This by order of Major Gale. Ten minutes after receiving these orders the Germans put over a very heavy barrage followed by a counter attack. Soon as we saw the Germans coming we opened fire. We had fired quite a while before noticing the fire was rather weak on either side of us. Upon looking around we could see few of our men left. There was no ofiicer present. I did not know where he was. I called ' ' Count-ofi', ' ' finding only fourteen men remaiiuing. We could see there was wave after wave of Germans coming on and decided to take a vote as to whether to continue fighting or give up. The majority were in favor to fight. Again we opened fire. By this time they were on our right and left as well as front. Our ammunition was very low. Pvt. Villano, who was operating a Chauchat gun, called for ammunition, which we passed to him that we could spare. Individually we had fired 175 rounds up to this time. The Germans were very close to us by this time and we again took a vote whether to figlit or not. Our ammunition was low. We could not hold them back for any length of time fighting against such odds. Majority were in favor of giving up as we had done the most possible under the circumstances and to continue would be suicide. We then gave up after having repulsed one counter attack and with- stood a heavy barrage fire followed by another counter attack which we fifteen had held up for about one hour. The three waves of Germans appeared to extend as far left and right of the elevated position as we could see. CHAPTER XI LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION FROM JULY 4, 1918, TO MAY 17, 1919. HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. FRANCE, Sth July, 1918. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 105: 1. The Division CommaiKler takes great pleasure in publishing the following telegram to the Division : "July 4, 1918, 33rd American Division. I have much pleasure in forwarding the following message just received from the Commander in Chief Begins: 'Will you please convey to Lt. Gen. Sir. J. Monash and all ranks under his command including the tanks and the detachment of the 33rd American Division my warm congratulations on the success which attended the opera- tion carried out this morning and on the skill and gallantry with which it was con- ducted. Douglas Haig. ' From General Rawlinson. ' ' By Command op Major General Bell: William K. Naylor, Colonel, General Staff, Chief of Staff. Official H. S. Hooker, Major, A. G. B. C, Aotg. Div. Ad jute int. HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. FRANCE, 6th July, 1918. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 106: 1. The Division Commander takes great pleasure in publishing the following telegram and letter to the Division: "General Bell, 33rd Illinois Division, July 5, 1918: Am anxious to express to you, General Bell, and to all ranks of the 33rd (Illinois) Division, my warm thanks for the gallant part taken by portions of your division in the attack at Hamel and Vaire Wood on Independence Day. I hear nothing but praise of the manner in which your units fought the enemy and my only regret is that I was not permitted to employ a larger portion of your fine division. Perhaps later on there may be another opportunity. General Rawlinson." 247 248 LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 1918 "AUSTRALIAN CORPS. Corps Headquarters, 5th July, 1918. My dear General: I desire to take the opportunity of tendering to you, as their immediate Com- mander, my earnest thanks for the assistance and services of the four Companies of infantry who participated in yesterday's brilliant operations. The dash, gallantry and efficiency of these American troops left nothing to be desired and my Australian soldiers speak in the very highest terms in praise of them. That soldiers of the United States and of Australia should have thus been associated for the first time in such close cooperation on the battlefield, is an historic event of such significance that it will live forever in the annals of our respective Nations. Yours very sincerely, John Monash, Lieut. -General. Commanding Aiistralian Corps. Major-General Bell, Commdg. 33rd American Division. ' ' This order will be read to the troops at the first formation after receipt by the Commanding Officers of each unit. By Command of Major General Bell: William K. Naylor, Colonel, General Staff, Chief of Staff. Official: H. S. Hooker, Major, A. G. B. C, Actg. Div. Adjutant. HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. FRANCE, 8th July, 1918. TO ALL REGIMENTAL AND BRIGADE COMMANDERS: The Division Commander takes pleasure in repeating the following letter for your information : "Hdqrs. 4th Aust. Divn., 7th July, 1918. My dear General: I am writing to thank you and the troops of yours who were attached to my Division for the operations of the 4th July for their excellent work. Our Brigadiers and Regimental officers speak of your troops action in the highest terms, and we are most grateful for their help. I enclose a letter from my Asst. Director Medical Services about the valuable assistance given by 108th Coy U. S. Engineers, which shows the excellent spirit of comradeship displayed by them and which is typical of all the U. S. troops attached to us. I much regret the losses suffered, but we consider our casualties to be light. I hope those takmg part in the operation learned a good deal. With sincerest wishes of good fortune to you and your command and again ten- dering our sincere thanks, I am Yours sincerely, E. G. Sinclair MacLagan, Major General, Comdg. dth Aust. Divn." By Command of Major General Bell: H. ,S. Hooker, Major, A. G. B. C, Actg. Div. Adjutant. 1918 LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 249 FOURTH ARMY NO. G. S. 2/13. 33RD ILLINOIS DIVISION. On the departure of the 33rd Division from the Fourth Army I deaire officially to record my admiration of the energy, keenness and soldierly qualities exhibited by all ranks during their period of training under my orders. The marked advance which has been made and the satisfactory standard of fighting efficiency that has been reached reflect high credit on all concerned, and guarantee that the Division will render brilliant service to the Allied cause wherever it may be employed as a fighting Division in face of the enemy. My regret is that it will not have further opportunity for offensive action whilst in the Fourth British Army, but portions of the Division have already acquitted them- selves most gallantly, and I desire to tender my warm thanks to those imits engaged for their brilliant successes in the HAMEL offensive and at GRESSAIRE WOOD. I greatly regret the departure of tlie Division and offer to General Bell and all ranks under his command the best of good fortune in the strenuous times which lie before them. H. Rawlinson, General, Commanding Fourth Army. H. Q., Fourth Army, 21st August, 1918. HEADQUARTERS 66TH INF. BRIGADE, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. September 29, 1918. MEMORANDUM NO. 10: 1. On the morning of the 10th of Sept., 1918, this Brigade took over the lines occupied by part of the 120th (French) Division. This famous front, where for four years some of the most desperate battles of the war have been staged, is known as the DEAD MAN'S HILL Sector. Since the beginning of the war more than a million men have been killed and wounded in this formidable stronghold. Opposite to us the enemy were so strongly entrenched, having a swamp, a river and heavily fortified heights as protection, that they did not even anticipate an attempt on our part to make an attack at this point. In spite of these obstacles we decided to cross and prepared to bridge the swamp and the FORGES Creek by means of bundles of fascines, duck boards and planks which were brought up and placed in the outpost trenches during three nights before the attack. Enough material was brought forward to construct four bridges, each 200 yards in length. On the night before the morning of the attack, the extremely difficult and dangerous operation of cutting lanes through the barbed wire entanglements was accomplished. These bands of wire stretching all along in front of our trenches in places exceeded 200 yards in width. The assembly of the troops in position before the signal to attack was also a very difficult and complicated task but the lines of columns were formed ready to file out of the lanes in the wire without confusion. The night of the attack was very quiet and as there was a full moon we expected to have difficulty in getting out of the trenches without being observed ; but fortunately as the moon rose, a heavy ground mist gathered which undoubtedly saved us many lives. About midnight the big guns of the Corps and Army began their preparation and from then on kept up an ever increasing roar. At 5:30 A. M., when our Division Artillery began their barrage on the enemy front lines and our Infantry left the trenches, the bombardment was terrific. Our plan was to attack with both regiments side by side in the line each sup- 250 LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 1918 ported by its own reserves, and by two companies of machine guns. Under the pro- tection of our barrage, they left the trenches and in an orderly manner crossed the bridges which our engineers had pushed out over the swamp and formed up on the other side of the FORGES Stream. The 1.32nd Regiment on the right had, as its task, to attack and drive the enemy from FORGES Wood. This wood, which was at first thought to be fairly open, turned out to be a tangle of trees and underbrush thickly sown with wire entanglements and machine guns. Our troops performed their task with bravery and dispatch, and making a turning movement, surrounded some of the enemy who were heavily en- trenched with machine guns near the bend of the river to the south, and attacked them from the rear, much to their surprise. This brought the 132nd Regiment to their objective on schedule time and with remarkably few casualties considering the formida- ble obstacles which they had to overcome. The 13l9t Regiment had to attack independently of any support, excepting its own reserves, in a northerly direction through the fortified remains of two towns and along the edge of the celebrated JURE Woods. The Division on their left having been held up, they still proceeded and attained their objective (the River Meuse) according to schedule without wavering and with faithful obedience to their orders. The Machine Gun Companies, which accompanied the Battalions in the attack, rendered excellent service. Notwithstanding the diificultics in getting their guns across FORGES Creek and Woods, they followed closely behind the Infantry and maintained perf-ict liaison with it. The Machine Gun barrage was delivered accurately and offered good protection in covering the Creek. A Company of Corps Gas troops accompanied the advance and aided by laying smoke screens at certain points. The courage and tenacity of the Engineers, who had to precede the Infantry and who remained to hold and repair the bridges over which the Infantry passed under the fire of the enemy, is to be specially commended. Over 1,000 prisoners, including 28 ofiicers, Avere captured by the Brigade, many of these were from famous Prussian regiments. Many batteries of cannon, both heavy and light, 150 machine guns (many of which were turned upon the retreating enemy) , enemy signals, ammunition, and much war material were also captured. The comparatively small losses of our own troops was due to the systematic way in which the attack was planned and carried out, and to the admirable initiative on the part of oflEicers and men in keeping their formations and proper directions so that none interfered with the other and everyone's effort was co-ordinated to the attack as a whole. Unusual judgment was used in reducing machine gun nests with very little loss, by attacking them on the flanks and rear. Special care was taken that details of the attack were known by platoon leaders and privates were informed of the extent of the attack and of what was expected from them. Our liaison arrangements were admirable and we were enabled to keep in touch with each other throughout the battle and during the consolidation. 2. The Brigade Commander directs that this Memorandum be read to each platoon in all the organizations of the Brigade. 3. He wishes to express his satisfaction with the results accomplished by the Brigade, and congratulates his command on their successes. By Command of Brigadier General Wolf : H. P. Erskine, Captain, Brigade Adjutant. 1918 LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 251 HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. FRANCE, 11th November, 1918. GENERAL ORDER NO. 144: The Armistice has been signed and hostilities have ceased, at least for the present. The Division Commander takes this opportunity of expressing his appreciation and pride to all ranks for their efficient and effective work. Shortly after leaving New York in May, 1918, the Division took station with the British in the defense of Amiens. On the morning of July 4th, 1918, part of it attacked, and Americans for the first time in history were associated on the battle- field with Australians, winning the victory of Hamel — described by the Commanding General of the Australian Corps as ' ' an historic event of such significance that it will live forever in the annals of our respective nations. ' ' The dash and gallantry displayed on this occasion was recognized by the British Commander-in-Chief and rewarded by the King. The engagement had far reaching results. On the 9th of August at Gressaire Wood and Chipilly the Division materially assisted the beginning of what developed into the final British advance and were again honored by the British nation. On September 26th and October 9th, as part of the First American Army, it carried all its objectives in the Verdun Sector and held the territory won on both sides of the Meuse. It has been awarded decorations by our Government and our former French Corps Commander has asked that recommendations be submitted for the Croix de Guerre. Such is the record of this Division. The Commanding General congratulates officers and men, soldiers of the Great War, on these things done by them in tlie service of their country. This order will be read to the troops at the first formation after receipt by the Commanding Officer of each unit. By Command of Major General Bell : William K. Naylor, Brigadier General, General Staff, Chief of Staff. G. H. Q. AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. FRANCE, November 13, 1918. TRANSLATION OF GENERAL ORDERS NO. 204: The following communication from the Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Armies is published to the command: GENERAL HEADQUARTERS, November l2, 1918. OFFICERS, NON-COMMISSIONED OF-FICERS, SOLDIERS OF THE ALLIED ARMIES: After having resolutely stopped the enemy you have during the month, with an unceasing force and energy attacked without respite. You have won the grandest battle of History and have saved the most sacred cause: the Liberty of the World. Rejoice ! With immortal glory you have covered your banners. Posterity shall guard your remembrance. F. FoCH, The Marshal of France. Commaivder-in-Chief of Allied Armies. By Command of General Pershing James W. McAndrews, Chief of Staff. 252 LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 1918 HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. FRANCE, 14th November, 1918. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 145: 1. The following General Order of November 12th, 1918, from the Com- mander-in-Chief, is quoted for the information of all concerned: "The enemy has capitulated. It is fitting that I address myself in thanks di- rectly to the officers and soldiers of American Expeditionary Forces who by their heroic efforts have made possible this glorious result. Our armies, hurriedly raised and hastily trained, met a veteran enemy, and by courage, discipline and skill always de- feated him. Without complaint you have endured incessant toil, privation and danger. You have seen many of your comrades make the supreme sacrifice that freedom may live. I thank you for the patience and courage with which you have endured. I con- gratulate you upon the splendid fruits of victory which your heroism and the blood of our gallant dead are now presenting to our nation. Your deeds will live forever on the most glorious pages of America's History. Those things you have done. There remains now a harder task which will test your soldierly qualities to the utmost. Suc- ceed in this and little note will be taken and few praises will be sung; fail and the light of your glorious achievement of the past will sadly be dimmed. But you will not fail. Every natural tendency may urge towards relaxation and discipline, in con- duct, in appearance, in everything that marks the soldier. Yet, you will remember that each Officer and each Soldier is the representative in EUROPE of his people and that his brilliant deeds of yesterday permit no action of today to pass unnoticed by friend or by foe. You will meet this test as gallantly as you have met the tests of the battlefield. Sustained by your high ideals and inspired by the heroic part you have played, you will carry back to our people the proud consciousness of a new Americanism born of sacrifice. Whether you stand on hostile territory or on the friendly soil of France, you will so bear yourself in discipline, appearance and respect for all civil rights that you will confirm for all time the pride and love which every American feels for your uniform and for you. Signed : Pershing. ' ' This order will be read to the troops at the first formation after receipt by the Commanding Ofiieer of each unit. By Command of Major General Bell: William K. Naylor, Brigadier General, General Staff, Chief of Staff. OFFICIAL : Frederic L. Huidekoper, Lt. Colonel, A. G., Division Adjutant. HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. FRANCE, 18th October, 1918. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 135 : I. 1. The Commanding General calls attention with pleasure to the following communication, dated 15th October, 1918, from Headquarters 17th French Army Corps. LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 253 ' ' Officers, N. C. O. 's, and soldiers of the 29th and 33rd U. S. Divisions, 18th, 26th and 10th Divisions. You have conquered LA WAVRILLE, Bois de CAURES and Bois d 'HAUMOT, you have reached the crest of de I'ORMONT and passed le RICHENE and Bois de CHAUME. The Austro-Germans have lost in an arc of 15 kilometers their observation points which have defied the heroic defenders of VERDUN. The 8th October you advanced with a magnificent dash on the formidable slopes and across powerful and deep enemy breast works. The following days you pursued and attempted to advance, which held against all enemy counter-attacks. You obliged him to bring hastily a number of re-inforcements which did not succeed in taking from you one hand-full of ground. 5,800 prisoners, more than 50 guns and machine guns and material not yet counted, is the achievements of these great days. All Infantry, Artillery, Engineers, Aviators, Staffs and services all of you have your part in the success. American soldiers, French soldiers, both white and black, you have rivaled in valor and comradeship to tear off the bandage which still afflicts our immortal Citadel. I am proud to have commanded you. Signed : Claudel. ' ' By Command of Major General Bell: William K. Naylor, Brigadier General, General Staff, Chief of Staff. OFFICIAL : H. S. Hooker, Major, A. G., Aetg. Div. Adjutant. (FOR OFFICIAL CIRCULATION ONLY.) G. H. Q. AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. France, Nov. 15, 1918. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 206: The follovdng cabled communication from the Secretary of War is published to the command: ' ' The signing of the armistice and the cessation of hostilities brings to an end a great and heroic military adventure in which the Army under your command has played a part distinguished by gallantry and success. It gives me pleasure to express to you the confidence and appreciation of the War Department and to those who have labored with you to make this result possible this appreciation of their zeal, courage and strength, both of purpose and achievement. The entire country is filled with pride in your fine leaders-hip and in the soldierly qualities shown by your Army. Now that a respite has come in the solemn task to which the Army devoted itself, the Wat Department will do all in its power to expedite the early return of the Expeditionary Forces to the United States in order that the country may welcome its soldiers home, and in order that these soldiers may be restored to the opportunities of civil life as speedily as the military situation will permit. I extend to you as Commanding Gen- eral, of the American Expeditionary Forces my hearty congratulations and this ex- pression of high esteem, and I beg you to make known to the officers and men of your command the fact that their conduct as soldiers and as men has stirred the pride of 254 LETTERS AND OEDEES OF COMMENDATION 1918 their fellow countrymen, and that their military success has contributed to the great victory for the forces of civilization and humanity. (Signed) Newton D. Baker, Secretary of War. ' ' By command of General Pershing: James W. McAndrew, Chief of Staff. Official: Eobert C. Davis, Adjutant General. HEADQUAETERS 33RD DIVISION, AMEEICAN EXPEDITIONAEY FORCES. Luxembourg, 16th December, 1918. GENEEAL OEDEES NO. 150: 1. The following letter is published to the Division in recognition of its work in the TEOYON Sector: "HEADQUAETEES SECOND AEMY American E. F., France, 12th December, 1918. FEOM : Commanding General, Second Army. TO : Commanding General, 33rd Division, American E. F. SUBJECT : Activity of the 33rd Division prior to the Armistice. 1. Upon the transfer of the 33rd Division, from the Second to the Third Ameri- can Army, I desire to express to you my gratification at the vigorous and successful activities of your division during the period of active operations preceding the Armistice. 2. The 33rd Division, although occupying a broad front, was called upon to ad- vance towards CONFLANS, and was engaged in the performance of this mission at the time that hostilities ceased. 3. On November 6 to 7, when accurate information of the enemy's intentions was greatly desired, raiding parties from your Division penetrated to CHATEAU d'AULNOIS and captured 21 prisoners, including one officer. On November 7 to 8, your reconnoissance patrols entered BOIS d'HARVILLE and ST. HILAIEE and brought back 8 prisoners. On November 9 to 10, you drove the enemy from the towns of ST. HILAIEE and MAECHEVILLE and, at the time of cessation of Hostilities, your division had occupied these towns, as well as the towns of BUTGNEVILLE and EIAVILLE. 4. The conduct of the 33rd Division exemplified its ability to execute promptly and thoroughly the tasks which were given to it. There was shown, on the part of both officers and men, an efficiency and fighting spirit which are highly commendable. (Signed) E. L. Bullard, Lieutenant General, V . S. A." 2. This order will be read to the troops at the first formation after receipt by the Commanding Officers of each unit. By Command of Major General Bell: William H. Simpson, Liettt. -Colonel, General Staff, Acting Chief of Staff. OFFICIAL : Frederic L. Huidekoper, Lieut.-CoJonel, A. G., Division Adjutant. 1919 LETTERS AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 255 HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. A. P. O. 750 LUXEMBOURG, 24th January, 1919. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 11: MEUSE-ARGONNE BATTLE. A corrected copy of G. 0. 232, H. A. E. F., dated 19th December, 1918, has been received from G. H. Q. and is jjublished below for information and com^^liance with the final paragraph thereof. Bulletin No. 141, Headquarters 33rd Division, dated 28th December, 1918,— which published the original copy of G. O. 232 — is, therefore, can- celled : "It is with a sense of gratitude for its splendid accomplishment, which will live through all history, that I record in General Orders a tribute to tlie victory of the First Army in the Meuse-Argonne battle. Tested and strengthened by the reduction of the St. Mihiel salient, for more than six weeks you battered against the pivot of the enemy line on the western front. It was a position of imposing natural strength, stretching on both sides of the Meuse River from the bitterly contested hills of Verdun to the almost impenetrable forest of the Argonne ; a position, moreover, fortified by four years of labor designed to render it impregnable ; a position held with the fullest resources of the enemy. That position you broke utterly, and thereby hastened the collapse of the enemy's military power. Soldiers of all of the divisions engaged under the First, Third and Fifth American Corps and the Second Colonial and Seventeenth French Corps — the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 26th, 28th, 29th, 32nd, 33rd, 35th, 37th, 42nd, 77th, 78th, 79th, 80th, 81st, 82nd, 89th, 90th and 91st American Divisions, the 18th and 26th French Divisions, and the lOth and 15th French Colonial divisions- — you will be long remembered for the stub- born persistence of your progress, your storming of obstinately defended machine gun nests, your penetration, yard by yard, of woods and ravines, your heroic resistance in the face of counter-attacks supported by powerful artillery fire. For more than a month, from the initial attack of September 26th, you fought your way slowly through the Argonne, through the woods and over the hills west of the Meuse ; you slowly en- larged your hold on the Cotes de Meuse to the east, and then, on the 1st of November, your attack forced the enemy into flight. Pressing his retreat, you cleared the entire left bank of the Meuse south of Sedan, and then stormed the heights on the right bank and drove him into the plain beyond. Soldiers of all army and corps troops engaged — to you no less credit is due ; your steadfast adherence to duty and your dogged determination in the face of all ob- stacles made possible the heroic deeds cited above. The achievement of the First Army which is scarcely to be equalled in American History, must remain a source of proud satisfaction to the troops who participated in the last campaign of the war. The American people will remember it as the realization of the hitherto potential strength of the American contribution toward the cause to which they had sworn allegiance. There can be no greater reward for a soldier or for a soldier's memory. This order will be read to all organizations at the first assembly formation after its receipt. ' ' By Command of Major General Bell : William H. Simpson, Lieut. -Colonel, General Staff, Acting Chief of Staff. 256 LETTEES AND ORDERS OF COMMENDATION 1919 HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. A. P. 0. 750 LUXEMBOURG, 23id February, 1919. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 24 : I. In compliance with the expressed wish of the Commanding General, Second Army, the Division Commander takes pleasure in publishing to the 33rd Division the following letter in recognition of its work in the VERDUN Sector while it formed a part of the 3rd (American) Corps: "HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES OFFICE OF COMMANDING GENERAL. 18th February, 1919. FROM: Lieutenant General R. L. Bollard. TO: Major General George Bell, Jr., Commanding 33rd Division (Through Commanding General, VI Corps). SUBJECT: Commendation of the Commanding General, 33rd Division, and of his Division. 1. I desire to make of record the fact that as Commanding General of the III Corps in the battle of the Meuse-Argonne I repeatedly took occasion between Septem- ber 26, and October 7, to commend in high terms your own command of the 33rd Division and the valiant and efficient conduct of that Division in the great battle in which you were taking part at that time. Every duty, every mission assigned to you and to your Division was executed with zeal, skill, smoothness and valor that deserved the highest commendation. I so stated to you at that time, as you will remember, but you and your Division on October 7 were unexpectedly to me detached from the III Corps. I then expected and hoped that in a few days you would be returned to my Command and that I would have opportunity then to commend the conduct of your Division in this battle; but I myself was separated from tliis Command unexpectedly a few days later and this opportunity thus never came. I take it now. I would appreciate it, if you will communicate this to your Division. R. L. BULLARD, Lieut. General, U. S. A., Commanding 2«d Army." RLB:s ' ' 201.1 — -Commendations. 1st Ind. Hdqrs. VI Army Corps, APO 783, American E. F., 20 February, 1919, To the Commanding General, 33rd Division, American E. F. 1. It gives me great pleasure to forward this acknowledgment of the service rendered by your division, knowing that the commendation has been justly earned. The spirit which enabled the aeeomi)lishment of such marked success in active service, still maintains the division, in time of peace, at a standard of efficiency ex- celled by none. A. Cronkhite, Major General, JJ. S. A., Commanding. ' ' 1919 LETTERS AND ORDEES OF COMMENDATION 257 HEADQUARTERS 3;3RD DIVISION, AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. A. P. O. 750 LUXEMBOURG, 9th March, 1919. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 32 : I. The Division Commander takes exceptional pleasure in publishing to the com- mand, the following letter: ' ' HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES OFFICE OF COMMANDING GENERAL. 3 March, 1919. FROM : Commanding General, Second Army. TO: Commanding General, 33rd Division. SUBJECT: Horse Show. 1. The reports that have come to me of the splendid success of your Divisional Horse Show at Diekirch last Thursday, 27th February, have given me the greatest pleasure. 2. Please accept my congratulations for yourself and all officers and men of your Command, not only on the zeal and efficiency with which the show was managed and the generally creditable aj^pearance and high class of all exhibits and exhibitors, but also on the magnificent appearance of your chosen Guard of Honor and the military smartness of all concerned. The show was in itself proof of thorough and far-seeing plans well made and of a most praiseworthy attention to details. 3. It was truly a task well done and my only regret is that I could not have been personally present. (Signed) R. L. Bullard, Lieutenant General, U. S. A." II. This order will be read to all troops at the first assembly formation after its receipt. By Command op Major General Bell: William H. Simpson, Lieut. -Colonel, General Staff, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS 33RD DIVISION, ON BOARD U. S. S. " MOUNT VERNON ' ' NEW YORK HARBOR May 17, 1919. GENERAL ORDERS NO. 54: I. The Division Commander takes the greatest pleasure in publishing to the command tlie following letter from the Commander-in-Chief, American Expeditionary Forces, General John J. Pershing: AMERICAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. Office of the Commander-in-Chief. MA.JOR General George Bell, Commanding 33rd Division, American E. F. 258 LP:TTERS and 0RDEK8 of commendation 1919 FRANCE, April 23, 1919. My dear General Bell: It afforded me great satisfaction to inspect the 33rd Division at Ettelhruek on April 22nd, and to extend at that time, to the officers and men of your command my congratulations on their fine appearance and ajipreciation of their splendid record while in France. The Division had an interesting and varied battle experience. One of those to be schooled with the British Expeditionary Forces, it arrived in France towards the end of May, 1918, where it trained with the 4th Army. Although, as a Division, it did not enter the line here, yet the majority of the organizations had hard fighting before they left the British Sector. On July 4th, parts of the 131st and 132nd Regiments of In- fantry, brigaded with Australian troops, successfully attacked Hamel and the Hamel and Vaire Woods. On August 9th, the 131st Infantry, under the 58th British Division, successfully attacked Chipilly Ridge and the Gressaire Woods, an operation made especially difficult l)y the character of the terrain. Towards the end of August the Division joined the First American Army in the Toul Sector, remaining in reserve until September 5th. On September 10th, it relieved a French Division in the Blereourt area, southwest of Verdun. It took part in the opening of the great Meuse-Argonne offensive, capturing the Bois des Forges, and occupying the sector facing the Meuse River. Beginning with October 8th, it participated in the operations east of the Meuse, pressing vigorous attacks on the 11th, 12th and 13th in the vicinity of Con- senvoye and the Bois de Chaume and the Bois de Plat Chene. It remained astride of the Meuse until it was relieved on October 21st, during which entire period it was constantly subjected to heavy artillery and machine gun fire from the heights of the west bank, and was continually in action. On October 26th, it re-entered the line in the Troyon Sector where it took part in the attack of the Second Army, driving the enemy from the towns of St. Hillaire and Marcheville and occui>ying the towns of Butgnevillc and Riaville. The Division was advancing when hostilities ende