The Quality of New Recruits

Friday 8th December 1916: From our Correspondent in the Field

Captain Bridcutt of the 7th Battalion, which is at Millencourt west of Albert, tells me that they have today received a draft of 194 other ranks to help make good the losses on the Somme. He commented: “A very good lot of men on the whole but their drill is not all that could be desired and their knowledge of training is limited”. This, no doubt, reflects on the fact that more men are always wanted at the Front, which means that time for training before sending them out has been reduced from an optimum level.

Source: X550/8/1

Rest and Refit

Tuesday 28th November 1916 From our Correspondent in the Field

The 7th Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment are at Millencourt. This village is about two miles due west of Albert. Thus it is well behind the lines following the Battle of the Somme. The Battalion is in rest billets after its exertions, refitting and overhauling kit, clothing and transport.

Source: X550/8/1