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Key dates over August 1916

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Lives lost on this day: 48

21st August 1916 - The Battle of the Somme documentary film released for viewing in 34 cinemas in London. Nationwide release follows a week later. The film is the first documentary to show actual footage of men fighting in battle. It is seen by more than 20 m

At the Front:

1st batt: Coy CO visited trenches prior to taking over. 14 NCOs joined from England and a similar number are to be sent back to replace them.

2nd Batt: Relief orders came in during am but these were cancelled. Orders received to mount a small attack with the Glasgow highlanders on the new German Line, which an aeroplane reported had been considerably strengthened during the night. The G H could not take the trench and our attack did not develop as not enough time to organise it.

4th Batt: Coys training during the day. Each evening, 30% of the men were allowed to visit Poperinghe.

7th Batt: Five men were killed when wiring.

SMD RFA: At 5.00pm there was an attack by 48th and 25th Division on trenches south of Leipzig Salient.

On the Home Front:

The Military Cross – Worcestershire Recipients – The following members of the regiment have been awarded the Military Cross:- Temp.Lieut. (temp. Capt.) C H Pigg, for conspicuous gallantry. He had done excellent work throughout the operations and organised his company with great skill. Sec-Lieut. T Wilmot for conspicuous gallantry. By his dash in securing and tenaciously holding a post in the enemy’s position, he contributed largely to the success of the operation. He was mentioned in despatches in January 1916. 7 R.Q.M.S., W Jones for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On more than one occasion he has rendered valuable service under heavy fire. 4893 S-M C Tough for continuous good service in the presence of the enemy and devotion to duty at all times. He has set a most excellent example throughout the campaign.

Distinguished Conduct Medal – 8183 W Davis Worcestershire Regiment, who is given the D.C.M., during an attack on the enemy ran out his wire, was in communication directly the company got into the enemy’s lines and maintained it throughout the engagement.

Information researched by the WWW100 team.