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Confidential Original

Source; Transcribed by D.J. Driscoll and J. Corsan from original source documents in WO95/2749 held in the National Archives.

See. http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/

E-mail with information or comments to

derekjd@blueyonder.co.uk

jon.corsan@btinternet.com

War Diary

of the

240th [S.M.] Brigade R.F.A.

for the period

1st November, 1917 to 30th NOVEMBER, 1917.

VOLUME 32/33.

[The two numbers shown as Volume No’s, the 1st is the unit No and the second is the Nat Archive emended No.]

Capt. & Adjutant

For Lieut.-Colonel. R.F.A.

Commanding

240th [S.M.] Brigade, R.F.A.

WAR DIARY OF 240 BDE [S.M.] R.F.A. [T]

Transcribed by D.J. Driscoll from original source documents in WO95/2749 held in the national Archives.

http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION .

November 1917

THELUS 1st. Orders rec’d that B&D/240 with A&C/232 Bde will be under orders of 31st D.A.

For an operation on the 8th Nov. BC’s of A&C came up to reconnoiter positions

for their bty’s for an operation in cooperation with above, A & C /240 will be under

orders of left group.

“ 2nd. Nothing to report.

“ 3rd. Night of 3rd/4th guns of A&C /232 Bde A. F. A. [Australian Field Arty] occupied position from which they could fire on

31st D.A. front.

“ 4th. A&C / 232 Bde, B & D/240 fired a Dummy barrage, put up on 31st D.A. front to cover a raid carried out on 47th

D.A. front. This raid was successful -18 prisoners being taken and 80 Bosche killed – we also captured 6 M.G.’s +

2 T. M.’s [Trench mortars]- our casualty’s – 3 OR’s killed and 10 wounded.

“ 5th. Fired practice barrage at 4.15p.m. with A&C /232 Bde A.F.A.

“ 6th. Recognisance of 2 x Bty positions carried out one for defense of recent line and one on VIMY RIDGE for defense

of BROWN LINE.

“ 7th. 4.20 A & C 232 Bde fired a Hurricane Bombardment on FRESNEY PARK .

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

8th. 12 noon A & C 232 Bde, A.F.A. and B & D / 240 assisted 31st Div, in a raid on the enemy trenches firing as ordered for

1hour & 15 mins.

THELUS 8th. The raid was successful – 20 prisoners being taken, 3xTM’s & 2 x M.G.’s and 10 large dugouts full of Bosche,

blown up.

On afternoon of 8th, A& C/232 Bde withdrew to their W/L’s and came under their own Bde for orders, marching out

of this area on night of 9/10th.

C/240 withdrew to their W. L.’s on night of 9th/10th handing over one gun to A/240 to complete this bty to six 9th. guns, D/240 handed over 4 guns to 323 Bde A.F.A. night of 9/10. D/240 withdrew 1 section to their W. L.’s.

" 10th. CO reconnoitered position for Bty’s in defense of the line RED, BROWN and GREEN lines of defense.

" 11th. New S.O.S. [Save Our Souls] lines bought in to force. [a flare sent up into the air would order the guns to fire]

" 12th. On the night of 12/13 the enemy did a lot of gas shelling on the W. L.’s On our right [31Div] more loose shelling

then a serious concentration.

" 13th. D/240 shelled rd, embankment and SALLUMINES TRENCH in conjunction with the A.A.

D/240 cooperated with D/241 in gas shelling Rly embankment by SALLUMINES TRENCH during the night.

" 14th. Nothing to report, 1 sect D/240 moved to W.L.’s on night 14th/15th/

" 15th. Order rec'd reads that we are shortly to be relived.

" 16th. Our ----- considerably troubled, by T. M.’s. These were effectively silenced by our own 4.5 How’s.

" 17th. Advance relief party from 4th CANADIAN FIELD ARTY came up to see position with a view to taking over.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

November 1917.

CAMBIGMEUL. 18th. 4th Bde C.F.A. relived 240 Bde R.F.A. in action on the 18th, relief complete by 12 noon .

Personnel of bty’s proceed to Cambligneul by lorry route.

“ 19th. Busy refitting and completion of all stores, great difficulty with small stores [CES=complete equipment schedule]

" 20th. As for 19th.

AUBIGNY 21st. The Bde entrained for ITALY, HQ, A/240 and D/240 on train at AUBIGNY, B/240 at TINCQUES and C/240 at SAVY.

to During this period the Bde were on the train and travelled via LONGEAD, LANGRES, GARY, LOAHAUS,

“ 26th MONTALIUE, MOBANE, PAVIA , MONATAVA, BOULONE and detraining at the later place on the 26th at 4 a.m.

and marched to OPPEANO.

OPPEANO 27th HQ & ⅓ A/240 marched from OPPEANO to ARCOLE via ALBAREDO.

ARCOLE 28th C/240, ⅔ D240 and ⅓ B/240 joined us at ARCOLE.

29th. Remainder of A/240 joined the Bde at ARCOLE.

“ 30th. Remainder of B/240 joined the Bde at ARCOLE.

The Bde awaited the arrival of 1 sect D/240 to join up- their being the only portion of the Bde det’d on date.

WAR DIARY OF 240 BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st Dec- 31st Dec- 1917.

Vol 33.34

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

December 1917. page 1 of 4.

ARCOLE 1st Remaining sect of D/240 joined the Bde making the Bde complete. Orders rec’d that the Bde

would march to PRESSANA in the morning.

PRESSANA 2nd The Bde marched to PRESSANA via VERONELLA and SABBION and stay thee for the night.

Good billets for the men ,horses and officers.

NOVENTA 3rd The Bde marched to Noventa area Via MONTAGNANA and POJANA very poor billets and

great difficulty in obtaining billets.

CHATEAU

LOPOLO 4th The bde marched at 2 hours notice from NOVENTA to BASTIA area via ALBETTONA, very

good billets, H.Q. & D Bty stayed at CHATEAU LOPOLO.

VEGGIANO 5th The Bde marched to VEGGIANO via BASTIA and MONTEGELDA and stayed there the night, good billets

for men and horses.

“ 6th The Bde remained at VEGGIANO for the day.

VILLA FRANCA 7th The Bde marched to VILLA FRANCA via LISSARD and CAMPODORO - very poor billeting area owing

to congestion of traffic.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

VILLA FRANCA 8th The Bde remained at VILLA FRANCA under orders to move anytime at 2hours notice.

VILLA FRANCA 9th During this period the Bde remained at VILLA FRANCA under orders to move at very short notice

to Bty’s and Bty Staff work and generally got things squared up, very little news of the war in general.

13/14th.

“ 15th. The C.O. went up to see the line and got back at about six p.m. B.C.’s conference at 8.30p.m.

“ 16th. Nothing to report.

“ 17th. First snowfall we had in this country, orders rec’d that we come under 104 Bde group for

movement orders etcetera..

“ 18th. C.O. went up the line again to do a reconnaissance.

“ 19th. Nothing to report, Bty’s did their shopping for xmas dinner.

21st.

“ 22nd. C.R.A. came round and visited B & C Bty’s in VILLA FRANCA .

ISOLA di 23rd. Orders received at 3 a.m. that the Bde would march to PRESSINA area which we were only able to billet

CARTOCO 3 Bty’s in PRESSENO A,B, & D. C+ H.Q. billeting close by in ISOLA di CARTOCO.

“ 24th. Bty’s busy settling in and accommodation is very poor.

" 28th. The C.R.A. & the B. M. came around to see us. [Brigade Major]

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ISOLA di CARTOCO 26th Majors Price and Anderson did a reconnaissance of the defences, running along the VICENZA

CITADELA

“ 27th C.O., Adjt and Signal officer B.C.’s went up to see the line. R.A. H.Q. provided the lorry, We motored up

to RUBBIO reconnoitring the line up there and also walked back to CROSARA over the mountains.

“ 28 to 30th Nothing to report.

“ 31st C.O. and B.C.’s + 2 officers of A., B, C Bty’s went to reconnoiter Bty Positions for defense of the

LIGNE MARINALE.

WAR DIARY OF 240 BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st Jan -31st 1918.

Vol 34/35.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

January 1918.

ISOLA di CARTORA 1st. General Buckle M.G.R.A. visited 240 H.Q. and went around c/240 horse lines. [Master Gunner R.A.]

“ 2nd. C.O. and B.C.’s went up to the mountains to reconnoiter positions for the defense of the “LIGNE

MARGINALE.” Reconnaissance of line of retreat ‘ Down Mule Tracks’ also carried out

“ 3rd. Nothing to report.

“ 4th. C.R.A. & S.C.R.A. came round to see us in the afternoon. The C.R.A. then gave us some definite

positions to occupy should we be called upon to defend the “LIGNE MARGINALE”

No work to be begun until the camp at VALLE di FLORIAND is ready.

“ 5th. Nothing to report.

“ 6th. C.O. and B.C.’s again went up to the mountains to carry out further reconnaissance on Bty positions –

also decide O.P.‘s to be used. M Malcrobo as Bde O.P. selected. Two good panorama sketches made

ISOLA di CARTORA from here.

“ 7th. B.C.’s again went up to meet the C.R.E. on the mountains – meeting did not take place as the owing

to the very bad roads on the hills – lorry skidded badly on one of the hairpin bends on the hill and

every body had to jump. All landed clear, save Major S.C. Wilson C/240 who unfortunately was ran

ISOLA di CARTORA 7th. into by another lorry immediately in rear, he sustained a fracture collarbone and was baldly bruised

He was subsequently returned to hospital.

The Bde paraded in marching order for an inspection by the C. in C. who was unfortunately unable

to attend.

“ 8th. Rained heavily all day.

“ 9th. A 240 was ordered to proceed to SANGRIGO to take part with 144 Infy Bde tactical exercise. At

9p.m. they were stuck at GRANTORTO - 3 miles from their billets after being on thee road for six

hours. They were ordered to return by the C.O.

“ 10th 1.a.m. Orders rec’d that A /Bty or one Bty must proceed to SANGRGO at once as A Bty did and did not

get in until 5 a. m. B 240 Bde ordered to turn out – get there which they did 1x leaving at 11.30 a.m.

the other two 2.30p.m. and 4.30 respectively. Charts of dead ground submitted to R.A.H.Q., C.O.

went to SANGRIGO.

“ 11th. O.C.’s of A,B, and C again went up the mountains to meet an R.E. officer, this time to show him

what work required to be done on bty position – met him successfully.

" 12th. C.O. returned from tactical fight at SANGRIGO. – also B/240 are in their billets at PRESINA.

" 13th - 14th. Nothing to report.

ISOLA di CARTORA 15th. S.C. R.A. visited the Bde. Major - - R.W. Anderson D240 proceed to 175 Bde, to reconnoiter

position he would occupy under their tactical control for the defense of the BLUE LINE.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

“ 16th. Nothing to report.

ISOLA di CARTORA 17th. A Bty went to assist 144th bde in tactical fight. They billeted at PIOANELLA

“ 18th. O.C. Div Signals visited the Bde Signal School , and were pleased with it.

“ 19th. S.C. R.A. & DADOS visited all units to see if there were any complaints about ordnance supplies

NO Complaints. A Bty returned from tactical exercise.

“ 20th. Nothing to report.

“ 21st. Orders rec’d that the Div is moving to take over 5th Div area. C.R.A. and the B.M. come round to

see the C.O.

ISOLA di CARTORA 22nd. All courses cancelled. Batteries busy cleaning up and preparing to move.

" 23rd/24th. Nothing to report.

ISOLA di CARTORA 25th. Orders rec’d at 12 midnight 25th / 26th. The Bde will move to S. GIORGIOU BOSCO., on the 25th.

The Bde marched at 9.30 a.m. via GRANTORTO OSPIDALE - de - BRENTA - FONTANNVIA -

CITADELLA

A/ Bty billeting at S. DONATO, B/ Bty at FACCA, C,D, and H.Q. at BOLIZONELLA.

Fairly poor billets.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

BOLIZONELLA 26th. Orders rec’d at 9p.m. that the Bde will march to CAMPIGO area on the 27th.

“ 27th. Bde moved off at 9.30a.m. marching via CITADELLA and CASTLE FRANCO, D Bty and H.Q.

billeting at S. MARCO, A, B, and C Bty’s billeting at CAMPIGO

S. MARCO 28th. The Bde rested at S. MARCO and CAMPIGO.

“ 29th. Nothing to report, No move, C.O. attended G.O.C. conference.

“ 30th. The Bde marched to CASTAGROLE area via ALBAREDO and ISTRANA. H.Q. and B Bty

billeting in CASTAGROLE and A, C and D Bty’s at PORCELLENGO. C.O. went on a

reconnaissance of the forward area with the C.R.A. [Commander R.A.]

CASTAGROLE 31st. Nothing to report.

WAR DIARY OF 240 BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st Feb – 28th Feb 1918.

Vol 35.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

Febuary 1918.

CASTAGNOLE 1st C.O. visited Bty’s in the morning and held a conference.

“ 2nd C.R.A. and B. M. came round – C.R.A. went round all the Bty’s, G.O.C Napoleon Campaign in Northern

" Italy at PAESE most of the officers of the Bde attended.

“ 3rd Nothing to report.

“ 4th. C.O. and B.C.’s went up to the mountain to reconnoiter the POUEGLIAO – VILLORBA – CATENA.

line of defense. The C.O. went to Div Arty to act as C.R.A. in the Generals absence on leave.

Major Price came to H.Q. as C.O.

“ 5th G.O.C. 2nd lecture on the Napoleon Campaign in Northern Italy all available officers attended.

“ 6th Major Price attended a conference at XI corps H.Q.

“ 7th C.O. and Adjt went forward to reconnoiter positions for the defense of the POUEGLIAO –

VILLORBA – CATENA line. B.C.’s Conference in the evening.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

Febuary 1918

CASTAGNOLE 8th. C.O. went forward on another reconnaissance.

B. M. came round to see us.

“ 9th. Nothing to report.

CASTAGNOLE 10th. Nothing to report.

“ 11th. Orders rec’d the Bde will move on the 13th inst. Also 3 officers and 100 OR’s will be attached to 144 Bde

[infy] on there visit to training area.

“ 12th. The C.O. went to make another reconnaissance, of the bty positions for the defense of the POUEGLIAO –

VILLORBA – CATENA line.

“ 13th. The Bde marched to S.MARCO, via PAESE – QUINTO -de - TREVISO - LA SEGA – SETTIMO-

BADOERE-LAVADA – and got in by 2a.m.. HQ and Bty at S. MARCO, C and D Bty’s at CAMPIGO and

A Bty at S. BRIGIDA.

S. MARCO 14th. Nothing to report. Orders rec’d in the evening that 240 Bde will take over billets from 241 Bde in

TORRESELLE area the later moving to RIO-SAN - MARTINO.

“ 15th. The Bde marched to TORRESELLE area A, C, and D Bty’s being billeted in TORRESELLE, B Bty in

BRUSSA MUSA. And H.Q. at SILUELLE.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

S. MARCO 16th Nothing to report.

“ 17th All guns of A, B, C, Bty’s went up to calibrate in 5 D.A. position.

SELVELLE 18th. Nothing to report.

“ 19th. A and B Bty’s returned from calibration.

“ 20th. 2 Officers and 100 men attd to 5 D.A. for work on Bty position in preparation for forthcoming

operation. All available officers attend. Col Pilkington lectures at BADDERE on the use of Div Arty.

“ 21st. Bde baths established at TORRESELLE in A/240 ‘s billet.

“ 22nd. D Bty had a horse show! C.R.A. and B. M. inspected the harness, wonderful, good turn out.

“ 23rd. B.C.’s went up in a lorry to reconnoiter their Bty positions

“ 24th. Nothing to report.

“ 25th. Orders rec’d re-bty’s moving up to 5 Div, who for the forthcoming operation. [nothing further]

“ 26th. Bty’s busy preparing for march up, B.C.’s conference at H.Q. 11.30.

“ 27th. Bty’s moved up at 6a.m. H.Q. A and B bty’s marching via LEVADA-BADOERE- SETTIMOE-

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

SELVELLE LESEGA- QUINTO -de –TREVISO- PAESE-CASTAGNOLE-PADERAO, C and D Bty’s marching on

“ CASACORDA-OSPEDALETTO- ISTRANA- PORALLENGO. POSTIOMA-Ces CUCCAGNANA-

27th SANDRA, all Bty’s Arriving at their respective W.L.’s at 12 noon .

ARCADA 28th. Bty’s went in to action on the night of 27/28th 2 Bty’s busy in prepared platforms and in registration.

“ During the month the Brigade has been out of the line special attention has been paid to drilling of

“ recruit gunners and drivers, re-drilling of N.C.O’s and several very instructive lectures have been given

“ by officers to the men of their Bty’s

WAR DIARY OF 240 BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 31st March 1918.

Vol 36/37.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

March 1918.

ARCADA MONTELLO.

“ 1st. C.O. and Bty B.C.’s went over to reconnoiter bty positions in 7th Div Arty area on the Montello

" 2nd/3rd. Nothing to report

“ 4th. Heavy rain fell during the day. Orders rec’d that the operations are cancelled.

“ 5th. Orders rec’d in the morning that 240 Bde will take over from 22 Bde. [7th D.A.] C.O. and B.C.’s went

to take over, but at 4p.m. orders were rec’d canceling the move. W.L.’s to 7.AL 2 E.

Major R. G. Pridmore took command of C/240. [vice Major Wilson]

“ 6th. Bty’s busy boxing ammunition and withdrawing some to 5th Div Arty Dump.

“ 7th-8th-9th. Nothing to report.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ARCADA 10th. Half-yearly recommendations for Kings Birthday Honours submitted.

“ 11th 12th. Nothing to report.

13th. Bty did a little firing in the morning. C Bty heavily shelled in the afternoon, with 5.9’s and 4.5’s and the

occasional 11 inch. Major R. G. Pridmore killed. M.O.R. 2nd Lt. S. Chapman was badly wounded. All Bty’s of

240 Bde withdrew from action to 5th D. A. W.L.’

“ 14th. H.Q. 240 Bde went out of action and went to W.L.’s at 7A l ZE

“ 15th. C.O. went round the horses in the morning. C.R.A. came round the Bty’s in the afternoon.

“ 16th. C.O. went on leave to England for 21 days, Major H. P. Lane A/240 came to H.Q. to command the Brigade in

his absence.

“ 17th. Orders rec’d that 240 Bde will go into action on the night of 19/20 and 21/22 for 2 or 3 days to take over from 15

Bde R.F.A. and hand over to the Italians.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

“ 18th. All B.C.’s and C.O. went up to reconnoiter Bty positions with a view to take over. D/Bty ordered not to go into

action.

ARCADA 19th. The Bde marched to W.L.’s in the CUSIGNANA area. H.Q. went straight up into old H.Q. just N of ARCADA

Cemetary.

“ 20th. 1 sec of A/240 B /240 C /240 went in to action at 19/20th reliving A/15 and “O” Bty respectively B/240

occupying previous position - which was vacant.

“ 21st. Italian officers came up with a view to take over. 1sect of A240, B240, C240 relieved by 1 section of 3 batteries of

“ the 24 “Italian Gruppe” during night of 21st and 22nd.

“ 22nd. Major and Adjt of 26th group came up to take over, remaining sections of 240 bde relieved by 24th Italian Group

after midnight of the night of 22/23rd H.Q. 240 Bde handed over command of the group to the incoming Italians.

CUSIGNANA 23rd. The Bde marched to S. MARCO via CAMALO - POSTIOMA – PORCELLENGO – ISTRANA –

OSPEDALETTO – ALBAREDO – a long march and a hot day. Poor billets at S. MARCO and CAMPIGO –

CAPT CORSAN M.C. R.F.A. from 23rd D.A. reported to take command of C/240. [vice Major Pridmore ]

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

S.MARCO 24th. The Bde marched to VILLA FRANCA via RESANA – LORREGIA – CAMPOSAMPIERO – S. GUISTINA in

COLLE, ARSEGO, CORTAROLA, with a halt between ARSEGO – ILL’MULIN for water and feed.

VILLA FRANCO 25th. Bty’s busy settling in - accommodation rather cramped.

“ 26th. C.R.A. visited all bty’s and also interviewed the officers and N.C.O.’ s who attended the last Arty course at

G.H.Q. school

27th. 28th 29th. Batteries carried out Bty staff exercises, driving drill, reconnaissance rides, and general training during these

3 days excellent training fields being obtained for this purpose.

“ 30th. Orders rec’d that 240 Bde will go up to reinforce 7th D.A. for an offensive operation to take place at an early

date.

“ 31st. C.O. and O.C.’s C and D Bty left H.Q. 240 Bde at 7.15 a.m. by car to go forward to reconnoiter the bty’s

position in 7th D.A. area. 6 other officers from 240 Bde went up in a lorry - leaving VILLA FRANCO church

at 6.30 a.m. to carry out reconnaissance – Orders rec’d that 1 officer and 25 O. R.’s from Bty would go up on

April 1st as a working party on positions they will, really for the operation.

WAR DIARY OF 240 BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 30th April 1918.

Vol 37/38.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

April 1918.

VILLA FRANCA 1st. Major Lane and all bty C.O.’s went out on a reconnaissance of the “Intermediate Line” and the “Line of

the hills” owing to the bad weather – reconnaissance was of no use.

“ 2nd. Orders rec’d at 1a.m. that the Bde will march at 9. a.m.

C.O. and BC’s went up for another Recognisance – this time for offensive positions to support an attack

by 7th Div Arty the fore the night. The Bde marched at10a.m. to CAMPISANO via TORRE ROSSA.

CAMPISANO 3rd. The Bde marched to MONTECCHIO MAGGIORE via TORRE - di -QUATRE -SOLO - VICENZA

and TAVERNELLE - got in at 2.30 p.m. very bad march due to congestion of traffic. C.O. and R.G. ?

returned at midnight .

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

MONTECCHIO

MAGGIORE 4th. O.C.’s B and C 240 went out on further reconnaissance of the hills

“ 5th. O. C.’s B and D 240 went up to carry out a further recognisance of the hills.

Officers of the Bde attended a smoke demonstration at PADUA in G. H.Q. School.

“ 6th. Nothing to report.

“ 7th. Parade Service of the entire Div Arty, at the MONUMENTO – G.O.C. distributed 1914 stars after the

ceremony.

“ 8th. C.O. B.C.’s and Adjt went up to see position to be occupied by 7th D.A. after finishing they went

round all positions on the “INTERMIDIATE LINE” and on the “LINE OF THE HILLS”, mounted

boards on the Bty positions.

“ 9th. Nothing to report.

“ 10th. C.R.A. visited Bty’s of 240 Bde.

“ 11th. O.C B and /D 240 went up to the line with there working parties for 2 nights. G.O.C., came round and

" Con'd 11th. visited. all bty’s. Act/C.O. and Lt Leslie rode over to CASTLEGOMBERTO to see,

G.O.C. 143 [infy] Bde regarding a tactical exercise to come off tomorrow.

“ 12th. Tactical exercise, Bde Staff and all bty staff’s did turnout.

“ 13th. Tactical Bde and Bty staff turned out . C.O. returned from leave.

“ 14th. Mule racing competition in the afternoon was won by D/240.

“ 15th. By Divisional Drilled Dog, finished early and the Bde got back by 1.30 p.m.

Bde boxing competition in the evening for light and feather wts – Crabtree won the former and Mills

“ the latter weight.

“ 16th. C.O. went up the mountains to stay with 7 D.A. for 2days, B.C.’s also went up to see the

“INTERMIDIATE LINE” and the “LINE OF THE HILLS”.

“ 17th. Nothing to report.

“ 18th. B.C.’s went up to reconnoiter positions to be taken over from 23rd as they are coming out to rest.

“ 19th. Nothing to report.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

MONTECCHIO

MAGGIORE 20th. The Bde “Stood To” for 24hrs proposed to occupy the “INTERMIDIATE LINE” and the “LINE OF

THE HILLS” C.O. retd from D. A

“ 21st. Busy getting ready for the move to the hills to take over from 23rd D.A.

“ 22nd. ½ Bde marched to S. ROCCO via VICENZA

S. ROCCO 23rd. 2nd half of Bde marched to S. ROCCO via VICENZA and 1st half of Bde marched

on to the W.L.’s of 23rd D.A.

FARA 24th. 1st half Bde and B.C.’s went up to the positions to take over from 23rd D.A.

2nd half of Bde marched from S. ROCCO to 23rd D.A. W.L.’s. C.O. went to see 103rd Bde H.Q.

IN ACTION 25th. Bde 240 took over from Bde H.Q. 103. relief completed by Bty’s and H.Q. at 3p.m.

“ 26th. Bty’s busy making weather proof places. 48th D.A. took over at noon .

“ 27th. Nothing to report.

“ 28th. Nothing to report.

“ 29th. C.R.A. visited all Bty positions.

“ 30th. Nothing to report.

WAR DIARY OF 240 BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 31st May 1918.

Vol 38/39.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

May 1918.

Asiego

“ 1st. Nothing to report.

“ 2nd. Nothing to report.

“ 3rd. C.O. attended a conference at 7 D.A. Hqrs

“ 4th. Bty’s started wire cutting enemy front line between MORAR and VAISTER

“ 5th. Bty’s wire cutting and D Bty bombarded strong point.

“ 6th. Wire cutting and bombardment continued.

“ 7th. Heavy rain all day, owing to very bad visibility, practically no wire cutting or bombardments were

carried out.

Lt White from B/240 was posted C/240, - Lt Robinson C/241 posted B/240.

“ 8th. 3.a.m. G.O.C. 144 Bde attempted to raid MORAR, but owing to the heavy rain of 7th and 8th the GHELPAC

was impassable.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

asiego

“ 8th. The C.O. went up to see his offensive H.Q. Italian mortars near H.Q. Bde, fired all afternoon - enemy

retaliation came very near us, one 18” shell sending a splinter thro the building. 1 OR slightly wounded.

“ 9th. Visibility fair. Bty’s continued wire cutting and bombardment.

“ 10th. Wire cutting continued.

“ 11th. Wire cutting and bombardment continued. C.R.A. and B.M. came round

“ 12th. Wire cutting and bombardment carried out in the morning. Rain made visibility bad in the afternoon.

“ 13th. Nothing to report.

“ 14th B.C.’s conference at Bde H.Q. at 10 a.m. General Strong visited all Bty Dumps.

“ 15th. Hurricane Bombardment on RUTZER at 10.45 a. m.

“ Wire cutting and bombardment comed out [?] We are told that 3 Bde shall take over from 22 Bde R.F.A.

7th D.A. on the 22nd inst. General Wardrop visited the H.Q. and said he would be coming round again

on the 18th.

“ 16th. 144th Infy Bde to raid MORAR again but met large hostile patrols before getting to the objective.

Wire cutting and bombardment continued.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

asiego

“ 17th. Brig - General Stanley Clark came to see the C.O. in the morning, General Strong visited offensive

positions of A, B, C, D and H.Q. during the afternoon. Orders rec’d that we shall not take over from

22nd Bde but go out to rest.

“ 18th. General Wardrop C.B. C.M.G. visited all Bty’s and bty dumps of 240 Bde, he seemed quite satisfied on the

whole.

“ 19th. C.O. attended a conference at 7D.A. H.Q.

“ 20th. Wirecutting and bombardment reduced.

“ 21st. ½ bty’s of 240 Bde relived in action by ½ Bty’s of 103 Bde

“ 22nd. Remaining ½ Bty’s of 240 Bde and Bde H.Q. relived in action by opposite No’s of 103 Bde,

relief complete by 1.30 p.m. Advance ½ 240 Bde marched to PREARA area. 2nd ½ of 240 Bde

remained at W.L.’s at FARA.

FARA 23rd. Advance ½ Bde marched to CASTLEGOMBERTO area via ISOLA – VICENTNA – MALO –

PRIANBONA and went into rest billets in that area. 2nd ½ of Bde moved to PREARA.

PREARA 24th. 2nd ½ Bde marched same route as advance ½ Bde arriving in billets before noon - owing to early start.

GHISA 25th. Nothing to report. A/240 marched to G.H.Q. Arty School to act as “Depot Bty”

“ 26th. Church parade at C Bty Lines for B, C and D Btys. G.H.Q.

P LACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

GHISA

“ 27th Nothing to report.

“ 28th. Nothing to report.

“ 29th. Orders rec’d that the Bde moves up to the line to take over from 22 Bde R.F.A. & D.A.

relief to be carried out daylight on June 2nd and 3rd.

“ 30th. Bty’s busy preparing for the move. Owing to an out break of *PYREXIA in ‘C’ Bty which temporarily

laid out 40 men the Bty was ordered to remain at present billets- until further orders.

“ 31st. ½ Bty’s of Band D /240 marched from RESE area to staging area at PREARA leaving at 4 a.m.

A/240 marched from PALAZZO FORTI [ GHQ Arty School ] to VICENZA area billeting there

for the night.

*PYREXIA = Fever.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 30th June 1918.

Vol 39/40.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade

As transcribed by J. Corsan grandson of Major R. A. Corsan D.S.O. M.C. R.F.A.

from original source documents in WO95/2749 held in the national Archives.

http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/

JUNE 1918

GHISA 1^st HQ Bde and 2^nd ½ Btys of 240 Bde less C/240 marched to billets in PREARA area via MOTECCHIO-MAGGIORE, TAVERNELLE, VICENZA ,LAGHETTO,

PASSO di RIVA, watering and feeding outside VICENZA and arriving in

billets about Noon . G.O.C. R.A. inspected the Bde marching past at

TAVERNELLE.

PREARA 2^nd Left billets at 5.00 am in PREARA and marched to 7^th DA W.L'S in neighbourhood of CARTERIA NODARI arriving there at 8 am .

CATERIA

NODARI 3^rd Moved up into action on the ASIAGO PLATEAU relieving 22^nd Bde RFA 7^th

Division. Relief complete by 2.30 am . LT Col Rudkin assumed command of Rt

Group 48Div arty with A, B, & D/240, B/241, and 25 Btys in the group. HQ

Group being at Mt LEMERLE.

ASIAGO

PLATEAU 4^th Btys busy getting settled in.

“ “ 5^th Nothing to report.

“ “ 6^th Rt Group btys commenced wirecutting on enemy front line.

“ “ 7^th Btys continued wirecutting.

“ “ 8^th Wirecutting continued.

“ “ 9^th 1.15 am A, B, D Btys co-operated in a raid on VAISTER houses. VAISTER

found unoccupied, but a prisoner was captured in the counter-attack delivered by

the Austrians.

“ “ 10^th Wirecutting & harassing fire by btys continued.

“ “ 11^th Orders recd for the offensive, an operation to be called “THE RAID.” C/240

marched from IL PALAZETTO to W.L’s at SERA.

“ “ 12^th C/240 moved up into action in the evening, bringing up their own guns and

Occupying their offensive position N.E. of CESUNA - in action by 9.30 pm .

Heavy rain fell all day.

“ “ 13^th Nothing to report.

“ “ 14^th 31^st Bty moved guns into a position in the neighbourhood of VALLE and their

personnel went to relieve personnel of D/240. Personnel of D/240 taking over

guns of 31^st Bty. Orders rec’d that the AUSTRIAN would attack on the morning

of the 15^th.

“ “ 15^th 3 am The Austrians started a very heavy bombardment with HE of all calibers

from 13’ downwards, shrapnel, and gas shell. This was directed on all btys

positions and approaches, valleys and roads as well as on our front trenches.

3.3 am All btys ordered to “Stand to.”

3.35 am Orders rec’d from D.A. to start “Counter Preparations” beyond the

outpost line.

3.50 am C/240 told.

3.57 am D/240 told.

The above two btys only being in communication with Group HQ but all

communication failed at 5 am .

5.3 am B/241 report that they rec’d orders for “COUNTER PREPARATION”

from O.C. Left Group also 31^st Bty.

6.10 am D.R. from Div Arty brought message to say that the Austrians will

attack at 6 am . Btys to be warned that they may expect hostile btys in action

about ROANNA, and to keep a sharp look out generally.

6.45 am Communication obtained with D/240 & C/240 & they were advised of

the situation. Lt. Graham being in charge of D/240 at that time as Major WRW

Anderson was wounded.

6.50 am O.C. Rt Group informed C.R.A. of the situation.

7.45 am 145 Infy Bde inform us that the enemy is pushing up the valley opposite

1/5 Glos front about H 31.38.

8.42 am Enemy reported in our line at PERGHELE.

8.45 am 2 S.O.S rockets sent up from Night O.P.

8.58 am Enemy seen advancing down slopes towards our lines from

AMBOSINI.

9.10 am Orders rec’d from Div Arty to shell PERGHELE.

9.15 am S.O.S. signal rept’d from Night O.P.

10 am 145 Infy Bde report that we do not hold front line from S. RONCALTO to N. of TRAVESO, but a line 100 x in rear of it.

10.05 am Orderly from C/240 reported that C/240 had evacuated their position, taking breech blocks & dial sights, and that the enemy had

captured their guns.

10.15 am Report from O.P. states that the enemy have reached PERGHELE and are still advancing down slopes from AMBROSINI.

10.40 am A/240 engaged and dispersed 3 Corps of enemy infy seen advancing towards our lines from AMBROSINI.

11 am O.C. D/240 reports “enemy holding wood about H 33 Central some 800 x from Bty. I am assisting to hold CESUNA SWITCH

"firing first charge.”

After evacuating his position Major Corsan armed his men with rifles and assisted to hold the CESUNA SWITCH.

During the afternoon, A/240 & B/240 engaged several enemy concentrations & broke them up - the former bty also taking 3

hostile btys in the open and neutralizing their fire.

D/240 continued to man their guns until the position became untenable owing to enemy M.G. fire, personnel then retreating with

breech blocks & dial sights and assisting personnel of 12 Bty to man two of their guns which were in rear off D/240.

About 6 pm a counter-attack was organised, but did not succeed on the left. C/240 guns remaining in the enemy’s hands during the

night. D/240 withdrew their guns after dark to a rear position near CARRIOLA. Lt. E. Carter C/240 killed by shellfire 9 pm.

16^th 1 a.m. During the night S.O.S. lines were adjusted to the existing line of defences.

7.30 am Another counter-attack took place and the enemy were completely driven out. Our original line being held at 9 am . C/240’s guns

were withdrawn to a position near CARRIOLA. C.R.A. visited the Brigade during the afternoon. All communications restored.

ASIAGO

PLATEAU 17th Nothing to report.

“ “ 18^th Nothing to report.

“ “ 19^th C.R.A. visited Bde HQs.

“ “ 20^th Nothing to report.

“ “ 21^st Nothing to report.

“ “ 22^nd All Btys Right Group registered S.O.S. lines during the day.

Col. Russel D.S.O. R.A. arrived to command the Bde in Col Rudkin’s absence on leave.

“ “ 23^rd Col Russel made a reconnaissance of the enemy wire on the Group front.

“ “ 24^th Information rec’d that the postponed attack would take place. Col Rudkin & Col Russel attended a conference at R.A.H.Q at 6 pm .

“ “ 25^th C & D/240 moved forward to occupy positions for offensive operations in the neighbourhood of MAGNABOSCHI x roads in the morning.

HQ48 Div Arty relieved by HQ7 D.A. at 10 am .

Capt. R. K. Cotter joined to command D/240.

“ “ 26^th Orders rec’d that the attack is cancelled. Col Rudkin went on leave. Orders rec’d that the 91^st Infy Bde would raid CANOVE on night

26^th/27^th. Rt Group assisted by C & D/241 to co-operate in barraging the enemy trenches in that neighbourhood.

11.30 pm The Raid on CANOVE started well.

“ “ 27^th 12.30 am Information rec’d the Raiding Party had achieved their object i.e. secured identifications, having captured 5 prisoners and killed

over 30. The RAIDERS were very pleased with the barrage. Heavy rain fell during the morning.

“ 28^th During the evening instructions were rec’d that “all Btys were to be in a state of

readiness” in anticipation of hostile attack.

“ “ 29^th Nothing to report.

“ “ 30^th Rt Group 48 D.A. assisted by C & D/241 fired a destructive shoot on enemy

trenches in the vicinity of CANOVE.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 31st July 1918.

Vol 40/41.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade

As transcribed by J. Corsan the grandson of Major R. A. Corsan D.S.O. M.C. R.F.A.

JULY 1918

ASIAGO

PLATEAU 1^st Orders recd in the morning that 240 Bde will move to 23^rd D.A. area to take over positions occupied by 22^nd Bde R.7 A on 2^nd, 3^rd & 4^th bat (?).

2^nd Enemy shelled Bde HQ with 15” – destroying the hut occupied by the HQ personnel & killed one man. All Btys of 240 Bde sent one

section to relieve one section of each Bty of 22^nd Bde R. 7 A during the day relief complete by 2 p.m.

3^rd 2 am . All Btys Right Group fired in conjunction with RAID on CANOVE . Raid quite successful – 7 prisoners taken and several enemy

killed – our casualties one man missing. 2^nd section per Bty 240 relieved 2^nd section per Bty 22^nd Bde R. 7A.

4^th 2.50 am . All Btys Right Group assisted Left Group in a RAID on STELLA – which was not very successful – our casualties being one killed and 18 wounded and only 2 prisoners captured. Remaining sections of 240 Bde were relieved during the day relief was complete by 4.30 pm and command of Rt Group 48 D.A. passed to Major ABEL O.C. 22 Bde R. 7 A. HQ 240 Bde moved to vacated HQ o 22 Bde at TORLE – having no command there – A & B/240 being attd to Rt Group 23^rd D.A. and C & D/240 to Left Group 23^rd D.A.

5^th Nothing to report.

6^th Nothing to report.

7^th Col Russell took over command of Rt Group 23^rd D.A. from Lt-Col BADHAM-THORNHILL (103 Bde) in the morning – but working with the HQ staff of the 103 Bde.

8^th All Btys on British FRONT in ITALY ordered not to fire from midnight 7^th/8^th until 4 am . On the morning of the 10^th.

9^th Nothing to report.

10^th HQ of 240 Bde (less Col Russel) relieved 103 Bde HQ in action in command of Rt Group 23^rd D.A.

11^th B/240 moved one section to a new position on BUSA del GHIACETO. G.O.C. 48^th DIV inspected rear wagon lines.

12^th Nothing to report.

13^th B/240 moved one section to new position on BUSA DEL GHIACETO.

14^th 11 pm . Two batteries of Right Group assisted French in raid on enemy system south of SISMOL.

15^th 11 pm . Right Group batteries assisted in a successful raid by 10^th N.F. on enemy trenches in vicinity of SEC. Prisoners captured 24; our casualties light. Considerable number of enemy killed by our barrage & by the raiders.

16^th Nothing to report.

17^th Nothing to report.

18^th Nothing to report. Work begun on anti-tank gun positions on forward slope of Kaberlaba.

19^th 12.00 midnight – Three batteries of Right Group assisted in raid by 9^th Yorks on enemy trench system on CODA spur. Prisoners taken 17.

20^th B/240 moved one gun into new position on BUSA DEL GHIACETO. 48^th Divisional Sports & Horse Show at rear wagon lines.

21^st Nothing to report.

22^nd Nothing to report.

23^rd G.O.C. R.A. 48^th DIV took over command of the Right Divisional Artillery at 11 am . One section from each of C/240 & D/240 relieved one section of B/102 & D/102, thereby joining the Right Group RFA.

24^th Another section from each of C/240 & D/240 joined Right Group RFA relieving sections of B/102 & D/102 respectively. Command of batteries passed 12 noon .

25^th Third section of each battery relieved the remaining sections of B/102 & D/102.

26^th Nothing to report.

27^th Nothing to report.

28^th Group batteries tested S.O.S. lines. The two anti-tank guns were put into position on the northern slopes of KABERLABA NORTH tonight.

29^th Nothing to report. Wire cutting by Hows.

30^th Wire cutting & usual harassing fire.

31^st Nothing to report.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 30th August 1918.

Vol 41/42.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade

As transcribed by J. Corsan grandson of Major R. A. Corsan D.S.O. M.C. R.F.A.

AUGUST 1918

Asiago

Plateau 1^st Nothing to report.

2^nd Nothing to report.

3^rd 5.30 am . All Right Group batteries less A/240 assisted in raid by a party from Left Infantry Brigade. Seven prisoners were captured & about 30 reported killed. Enemy system raided, cutting south of GAIGA south. Our casualties two officers missing, otherwise light.

The French carried out a raid at the same hour on ZOCCHI & captured 120 prisoners including a colonel.

Information gained from this colonel was to the effect that an enemy raid was going to take place on VAL DAL BRUN on the night of 3^rd/4^th. Acting on this information all batteries in the Group were warned to open up another “Outpost Barrage” on receiving the S.O.S. call. The piquet (?) line was strongly held in anticipation of the raid.

11.30 pm . The enemy put down a barrage on the piquet (?) front line of the night battalion of our sector.

11.35 pm. S.O.S. call was received from Night O.P. officer & the Battalion Liaison Officer which was passed on to the batteries by ‘phone & S.O.S. rocket.

4^th 12.10 am . Enemy fire gradually subsided until about 12.10 am . it ceased.

12.50 am . The French & 24^th RGA Groups who had opened fire in response to our call, were requested to cease firing. Five minutes later all group batteries ceased firing.

5^th 4.5 Hows & 6” T.M.’s cut wire at points from & including AVE and SEC.

6^th Wire cutting continued.

7^th Wire cutting & harassing fire.

8^th Wire cutting continued, assisted 6 in. Hows.

12.00 midnight to 2.30 am . 9^th - Right Group batteries including Capitano Richini of 419^th Italian Battery of this group, supported an intensive raid on AVE & SEC & outskirts of ASIAGO by the 7^th Battalion Royal Warwicks & two companies of the 5^th Royal Warwicks, both of the 143 Infantry Brigade, the Right Brigade in the line. The raid was carried out in conjunction with similar raids along the front held by the British. Total number of prisoners taken by 143 Infantry Brigade 111 including 1 officer. Our casualties light.

On the whole British front we took about 350 prisoners including 7 officers, 6 machine guns, 4 trench mortars, 1 searchlight & 5 pack ponies. Enemy casualties very heavy.

9^th Situation normal during day.

11.15 pm . Three batteries of the Group assisted the French on our right in a successful raid on M. SISEMOL area. The remaining batteries of the Group including the 419^th Italian battery, one from the Left Group & 2 6” How. Batteries, bombarded the area raided last night. A creeping barrage was put down at 3 am (?) plus 1 hr 20 mins & raiding parties from 6^th & 8^th Warwicks went over. No prisoners were taken.

10^th Nothing to report.

11^th Nothing to report.

12^th Nothing to report.

13^th 4.20 am . Enemy opened light barrage on Left Brigade and left of Right Brigade. The barrage was put down on his own wire and on the piquet and outpost lines. The barrage was opened in response to a chain of red rockets. At the request of Left Group RFA A/240 was put on to search no mans land from north of POSLEN to enemy front line. Order to stop firing was given at 5.10 am . Enemy fire stopped at 5.25 am . Nothing to report for remainder of the day.

14^th Nothing to report.

15^th Nothing to report.

16^th Nothing to report.

17^th Nothing to report.

18^th Orders rec’d that forward positions are to be filled up with ammun. – in view of a probable Austrian retirement.

19^th G.O.C. R.A. visited Group HQ, and some of the Group Btys.

20^th Nothing to report.

11.45 pm . All Group Btys fired a “Crash” on road between VE & AVE.S. in conjunction with an infantry patrol enterprise. No prisoners captured.

21^st Nothing to report.

22^nd Nothing to report.

23^rd During the night 2nd/24^th Rt Group fired special night firing tasks on all roads & tracks in Group 20NE.

24^th Special night firing on all roads & tracks carried out on night 24/25.

10.15. Rt Group Btys fired for 6 mins on enemy trenches in front of AVE & SEC. Immediately on cessation of this burst, a strong infantry patrol pushed forward, re-entered trenches in neighbourhood of AVE capturing 3 prisoners – a similar patrol entered trenches around SEC, also capturing 3 prisoners. Our total casualties for both attacks being 3 men wounded.

25^th Nothing to report. Special night firing continued on night 25/26.

26^th Nothing to report.

27^th 10.40 am . All btys Right Group – assisted by French arty, Left Group, & HA tried in conjunction with large Infy raid on trench area from AVE to TRANCHEE DES, BARBARES. All fire ceased at 12.10 am . The raid was successful 210 prisoners & 1 officer being captured, and a large amount of dead were observed. Our casualties were 100 men & 15 officers wounded.

Nothing to report.

28^th 11.45 pm . Under an arty barrage put up by Right Group 4^th Gloucesters raided SEC. The enemy put up a stout fight, but our party inflicted severe casualties on the garrison & destroyed a M.G. also bringing 3 prisoners back with them. The infantry report the barrage was excellent.

29^th 9.30 am . G.O.C. R.A., G.H.Q. came round to Group HQ, C.O. accompanied him around all Group Btys and to some of the O.P.’s.

30^th Nothing to report.

31^st Nothing to report.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 31st Sept 1918.

Vol 43/44.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade

As transcribed by J. Corsan grandson of Major R. A. Corsan D.S.O. M.C. R.F.A.

SEPTEMBER 1918

Asiago

Plateau 1^st 10.00pm . All btys fired for 3 minutes on AVE. SPUR in the hope of catching hostile patrols.

10.30pm. above procedure repeated.

2^nd Nothing to report. Visibility very bad owing to heavy mist.

3^rd Nothing to report.

4^th Nothing to report.

5^th Nothing to report.

6^th 4.51 am. 3 18 Pdr Btys and 1.4’5 How fired in conjunction with French raid on STELLAR.

7^th Nothing to report.

8^th Nothing to report.

9^th 2 Lt H. J. A. SEELEY joined the Bde from R.A. Reinforcement Camp & was posted to C/240.

10^th 4 am . All Btys Right Group assisted by French arty, H.A. and Left Group fired in support of raid by ¼ Ox & Bucks L.1. on trenches and dugouts in the neighbourhood of SEC.

11^th Nothing to report.

12^th Nothing to report.

14^th 2 Lieut HOWARTH joined the Bde from BASE & was attd to A/240 for duty.

15^th – 18^th Nothing to report.

19^th Nothing to report. Orders rec’d that all forward offensive positions are to be cleared of ammun.

20^th Nothing to report.

21^st – 25^th Nothing to report.

26^th All ammun. From forward positions cleared to Div Arty dump.

27^th Nothing to report.

28^th Nothing to report.

29^th A composite bty from the Bde took part in a review before the king of ITALY .

30^th Nothing to report.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 31st Oct, 1918.

Vol 43/44.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade

As transcribed by J. Corsan grandson of Major R. A. Corsan D.S.O. M.C. R.F.A.

OCTOBER 1918.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ASIAGO PLATEAU 1st . Nothing to report

“ 2nd. Nothing to report

“ 3rd. Nothing to report

“ 4th. 4.a.m. Our Bty’s fired in support of a raid on the AVE sector.

“ 5th. Nothing to report.

“ 6th. Nothing to report.

“ 7th. Col H.O.B. Russell D.S.O. went on leave the Bde was commanded by Major C. W. Bayne –

Jardine, D.S.O. M.C. During his absence.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ASIAGO PLATEAU 8/9/10. Nothing to report.

“ 11th. 3. a.m. Our Bty’s fired in support of an infantry raid.

“ 12th

23rd Nothing to report.

“ 24th. 12.15 a.m. Our Bty’s fired in support of an infantry raid.

“ 25th. Nothing to report.

“ 26th. Nothing to report.

“ 27th. Nothing to report.

“ 28th. Nothing to report.

“ 29th 2.45a.m. Fired in support of Infy Raid. Infantry found enemy trenches unoccupied.

During the day A/240 and C/240 moved 1 sec each to forward positions.

“ 30th. A/240 moved second section to position in “NO MANS LAND” C/240 moved second

section into it’s forward position. B/240 moved a section just short of our front line. 1 section

of How’s of D/240 moved forward to position in rear of S. SITO RIDGE.

“ 31st. A/240 and C/240 withdrew remaining sections in there rear positions to adv W.L.’s at at GRANEZZA. D/240 moved another section to forward position.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 31st Nov, 1918.

Vol 44/45.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade R.F.A.

November 1918

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ASIAGO PLATEAU. 1st 240 Bde R.F.A. moved forward in support of 144 Infy Bde in pursuit of the retreating Austrians.

D/240 sent 1 section with advance guard of 143 Infy Bde.

Bde camped at for the night in VLE PORTULE.

VLE PORTULE. 2nd The Bde Moved forward, and camped for the night at CALDONAZZO.

CALDONAZZO. 3rd. The Bde Moved forward and encamped for the night at NOGARE.

NOGARE. 4th/5th/6th. Nothing to report.

“ 7th . The Bde marched back and camped for the night at CALDONAZZO.

CALDONAZZO. 8th. The Bde Marched back and camped for the night at BERTOLI.

BERTOLI 9th. The Bde continued to march back and spent the night at GHERTELE.

GHERTELE. 10th. The Bde continued the march back and spent the night at GRANEZZE.

GRANEZZE. 11th. The Bde Marched to old W.L.’s at PREARA.

From the 11th to the 23rd. Nothing to report.

November 1918

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

PREARA 24th. 240 Bde marched to billets in ST.VITO de LEGOZANNO via MALO.

ST.VITO de

LEGOZANNO. 25th to 30th. Nothing to report..

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 3lst Dec, 1918.

Vol 45/46.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade.

December 1918

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ST. VITO 1st. Nothing to report.

LEGUZZANO 2nd. Nothing to report.

“ 3rd. C.R.A. inspected A/240 the on drill Parade.

“ 4th. Nothing to report.

“ 5th. C.R.A. inspected C/240 the on drill Parade. G.O.C. Division also attended.

“ 6th. Nothing to report.

“ 7th. C.R.A. inspected D/240 on drill order parade.

“ 8th. Col Russell sent to hospital

“ 9th.

“ to. Nothing to report.

“ 31st.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 3lst Jan, 1919.

Vol 46/47.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade.

January 1919.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ST. VITO 1st. Nothing to report.

LEGUZZANO to

“ 4th.

“ 5th. G.O.C. Division Inspected C/240 and D/240.

“ 6th.

to Nothing to report.

“ 12th.

“ 13th. G.O.C. Division Inspected A/240 and B/240.

“ 14th. D/240 inspected. [G.H.Q. competition.]

“ 15th.

“ to Nothing to report.

“ 21st.

January 1919.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ST. VITO

LEGUZZANO

“ 22nd. C.R.A. inspected all Horses of the Brigade.

“ 23rd.

to Nothing to report.

“ 31st.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 28th Feb, 1919.

Vol 47/48.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade.

Febuary1919.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ST. VITO

LEGUZZANO 1st. Brigade Training. -------? further to refit.

“ 2nd. Inspection of all horses by the G.O.C. for ------ ----------- -- ------ ? to A. of O.

“ 3rd.

“ to Nothing to report.

“ 10th.

“ 11th. Inspection of A of O. horses by --- --- -----? Bde.

“ 13th. ------? the A of O. Rly – General Bde training.

18th.

“ 19th. Visit of G.O.C. R.A. att all personnel of A. of O.

“ 21st. A. of O. Bty moved off to new area at ARCOLE.

Final parade of remainder Bde horses.

“ 21st Major R. A.Corsan D.S.O. relinquishes command of Bde to A. of O.

Febuary1919.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

ST. VITO di

LEGUZZANO 22nd. 50 mules sent to - - - - - - construction camp.

“ 23rd-26th Gun and wagons were turned moved to new area at TEZZE.

“ Assistance being given by 241 Bde.

“ 28th. Bde Moved from ST. VITO-di-LEGUZZANO to TEZZE.

WAR DIARY OF 240 [S.M.] BDE R.F.A. [T]

For the period

1st – 3lst Mar, 1919.

Vol 48/49.

WAR DIARY of 240^th ( South Midland ) Brigade.

March 1919.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

TEZZE

“ 1st. A L D ? horses +[LD] unit sent to collecting camp MONTEBELLO .

“ 2nd to 9th Nothing to report.

“ 10th. Sent F.S. Gedye M.C. A/240 Bde R.F.A., proceeded to U.K. for dispersal.

“ 11th to 12th Nothing to report.

“ 13th. All guns and vehicles returned to wagon park from to being entrained – horses from A of O

used for this duty.

“ 14th. All Bde stores and equipment handed over to O.C. TAVERNELLE.

“ 15th to 17th Nothing to report.

March 1919.

PLACE DATE HOUR SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION

TEZZE

“ 18th. Town of ARZIGNANA. Placed out of bounds to all troops.

“ 18th to 20th. Nothing to report.

“ 21st. Orders for entraining rec’d

“ 22nd. Nothing to report.

Signed

? F. Jimmy Bond Lieut.

Adjt 240 Bde R.F.A.