Illinois in the World War Volume 2 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1921 Excerpt: ...ceased (30 minutes after objective was taken) our planes came over in large formations and held command of the air up till midday when their control was disputed for about an hour by a flight of up to 35 enemy planes which brought two of ours down. About 25,000 rounds of S.A.A. were dropped by parachutes in and in rear of our lines by our planes. As the result of this operation, this Battalion took over 230 pr1soners, two 8 inch mortars, 1 light mortar, 10 heavy and 45 light machine guns together with large quantities of ammunition, r1fles, equipment, and other war materials, whilst at least 150 of the enemy were killed. Our casualties were killed 3 officers 32 other ranks, died of wounds 9, other ranks wounded 6 officers 190 other ranks, and the American Company attached lost 13 other ranks killed, wounded 2 officers and 44 other ranks, unaccounted for 12 other ranks. Notes On Attack. 1. I was impressed with the silent and orderly way in which our boys formed up on the taped line, and this was due to previous practices and patient handling of men by their platoon commanders. 2. Our barrage was ragged and caused us many casualties, as well as rattling our men to some extent. On account of these short shells we were not able to get closer than 200 yards to our main barrage and this delayed us and prevented our men getting on to enemy in Pear Trench quickly enough to smother their resistance, Our barrage did little or no damage to Pear Trench or its garrison. I examined the ground and saw where our shells fell on either side of it. In dry weather a percentage of smoke shells are not required cause added to dust, etc., it is too difficult to see what is happening on flanks. 4. I only heard one of our tanks below Zero and its noise was not very distinct. Tanks ...