The Wartime Memories Project

- 9th (County Armagh) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers during the Great War -


Great War> Allied Army
skip to content


This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this site you agree to accept cookies.


If you enjoy this site please consider making a donation.



    Site Home

    Great War Home

    Search

    Add Stories & Photos

    Library

    Help & FAQs

 Features

    Allied Army

    Day by Day

    RFC & RAF

    Prisoners of War

    War at Sea

    Training for War

    The Battles

    Those Who Served

    Hospitals

    Civilian Service

    Women at War

    The War Effort

    Central Powers Army

    Central Powers Navy

    Imperial Air Service

    Library

    World War Two

 Submissions

    Add Stories & Photos

    Time Capsule

 Information

    Help & FAQs



    Glossary

    Our Facebook Page

    Volunteering

    News

    Events

    Contact us

    Great War Books

    About


Advertisements

World War 1 One ww1 wwII greatwar great 1914 1918 first battalion regiment

9th (County Armagh) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers



   9th (County Armagh) Battalion, The Royal Irish Fusiliers was raised in Belfast in September 1914, from the Armagh, Monaghan and Cavan Volunteers, units of the paramilitary Ulster Volunteer Force. The Battalion was attached to 108th Brigade, 36th (Ulster) Division. The men trained at Dufferin and Ava Estate at Clandeboye, County Down and in July 1915, the Division moved to Seaford, in Sussex, England and then to France in early October 1915.

The 36th Ulster Division are most famous for thier action on the 1st of July 1916, when they were one of the few Divisions to reach thier objective. The front lines were at the edge of Thiepval Wood, troops crossed about 400 yards of No Man's Land, entering the Schwaben Redoubt, (close to where the Ulster Tower stands today) then advancing on towards Stuff Redoubt. The men held out for the day but as their stocks of bombs and ammunition dwindled, they were forced to fall back. The casualties suffered by the 36th Division on the 1st of July were over 5,000 in total. Nine men of the 36th Division were awarded the Victoria Cross on the 1st of July 1916. In 1917 They were in action at The Battle of Messines, capturing Wytschaete and in the The Battle of Langemarck during the Third Battles of Ypres and the The Cambrai Operations where the Division captured Bourlon Wood. On the 25th September 1917 the 9th (County Armagh) Btn was renamed 9th (North Irish Horse) Battalion, absorbing two squadrons of the North Irish Horse. In 1918 they were in action the Somme in the Battles of the Lys and the Final Advance in Flanders. At the Armistice they were at Mouscron, north east of Tourcoing, where the Division remained throughout demobilization which was complete by June 1919.

The Ulster Tower, at Thiepval is a memorial to the men of the 36th (Ulster) Division, built as a copy of Helen's Tower at Clandeboye, County Down, where men of the 36th Division trained. There is a small visitor centre with a cafe behind the tower which is staffed by members of the Somme Association. Inside the tower is a small chapel with a number of paintings and plaques from Northern Ireland. Today Thiepval Wood is owned by The Somme Association and guided tours are available of a section of recently excavated trenches.

Please note that Thiepval Wood is not open the public, it is used by French huntsmen who use live ammunition and who will shoot, you are putting yourself at risk by entering without permission. Please go to the visitor centre at the Ulster Tower to arrange a guided tour.

A DVD was released for the official opening of the wood for guided tours on the 1st of July 2006, which follows the Community Archeology Project, undertaken by The Somme Association and No Man's Land, The International Group for Great War Archaeology.

You can order a copy on-line by clicking the image below:




12th of October 1915 Instruction

16th of October 1915 Divisional Exercise

18th of October 1915 Instruction

25th of October 1915 Royal Inspection

15th of November 1915 Further Trench Instruction

25th of November 1915 Orders

26th of November 1915 Billets

27th of November 1915 Move

29th of November 1915 Moves Completed

19th of December 1915 Movement Instructions

8th of January 1916 Moves  location map

2nd of February 1916 Moving to the Trenches  location map

7th of February 1916 New Sector  location map

8th of February 1916 Shelling  location map

9th of February 1916 Villages Shelled  location map

12th of February 1916 A Line Rearrangement  location map

14th of February 1916 Mine Blown  location map

15th of February 1916 Digging and Mending  location map

16th of February 1916 Collapsing Trenches  location map

18th of February 1916 Lots of MG Fire  location map

19th of February 1916 Under Heavy Fire  location map

20th of February 1916 System for Reliefs  location map

21st of February 1916 Active German Patrols  location map

23rd of February 1916 Weather Turns  location map

25th of February 1916 Heavy Snow and a German Patrol  location map

26th of February 1916 A Store Burns  location map

28th of February 1916 Changes to the Front  location map

29th of February 1916 Active Aeroplanes  location map

1st of March 1916 Reorganisation  location map

2nd of March 1916 Very Strong Enemy Wire  location map

5th of March 1916 Relief Completed  location map

7th of March 1916 Trench Mortars Bombard Village  location map

22nd of June 1916 Moves are Planned  location map

29th of June 1916 Assault Positions  location map

1st July 1916 Terrible Losses  location map

2nd of July 1916 A Gallant Plan  location map

10th of July 1916 Entraining Plans  location map

14th of August 1916 A Deceptive Patrol  location map

12th of October 1916 Several Raids  location map

1st of December 1916 "A Good Piece of Work"

3rd of December 1916 Leaving Bulford Camp

1st of June 1917 Instructions for the Offensive  location map

16th of August 1917 Under Fire

16th of August 1917 Under Fire

1st September 1917 9th Btn. R.Ir.Fus. 1917-19

2nd Sep 1917 Working Parties

3rd Sep 1917 On the Move  9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers Headquarters and D.C. [Divisional Command?] moved to Ruyaulcourt at 0800 and were accommodated in tents and Nissen huts. Captain J.E Gibson Officer Commanding Details (by remainder of unit) at Havrincourt Wood. Working parties were supplied as before.

War Diaries



4th September 1917 Daily Activity

5th Sep 1917 Relief in Trenches  location map

6th Sep 1917 Trench Work

7th Sep 1917 Exchange of Fire

8th Sep 1917 Quiet  9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers spend a very quiet day at Havrincourt Wood. There was little trench mortar or machine gun fire during the day. A German called across to our men "Jock, have you been here before"? He got no reply however. 2nd Lieutenant Partridge and four men went out on a patrol. They did not come into contact with enemy. Wire entanglements and deepening of the communication trench on Yorkshire Bank continued.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



9th Sep 1917 Trench Work  9th Royal Irish Fusiliers spend a quiet day in the trenches. Some enemy trench mortars fired around Yorkshire Bank, and an enemy plane flew very low over the Bank. They carried out work on the Bank, wiring and improving trenches and deepening new trenches at R.3. No casualties.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



10th Sep 1917 Minewefers  9th Royal Irish Fusiliers are in trenches at Havrincourt Wood. The enemy fired a few light minenwerfers about R.3 and the Cage, also a few pineapples at the junction of the front line and Henley Avenue. We fired with Vesuvius and Wigan Copse also dispersed enemy working party or patrol at Etna. Work on trenches and wiring was carried out. No casualties.

WO 95/2505/2



11th Sep 1917 Enemy Patrol  At 0330 an enemy patrol of seven approached the line held by 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers, south of Yorkshire Bank and were driven off, but without casualties. R.3 was shelled late in the evening. Lieutenant J.A.L Johnston (D Company) was severely wounded in jaw, leg and foot, and had to go to hospital. The day generally was somewhat more lively than usual.

War Diaries



12th Sep 1917 Patrols  location map

13th Sep 1917 Reliefs  location map

14th Sep 1917 Working Parties  9th (Service) Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Ruyaulcourt. The morning was spent cleaning up followed by allocation of working parties in the afternoon.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



15th Sep 1917 Huts  At Ruyaulcourt, Inspection Parades were held by 9th Irish Fusiliers under Company arrangements. The Brigadier visited the Battalion Transport for whom lines are in course of construction. Hutting work was in progress under 2nd Lieutenant Bennet (Works Officer) and a works party of ten Other Ranks was working after dusk at new Company Headquarters in the line at R.3.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



16th September 1917 Church Parade

17th Sep 1917 Inspection  9th Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers paraded at 1030 for inspection by the Corps Commander who expressed his satisfaction in generous terms of the appearance of the Battalion and the Transport. The working parties carried on in afternoon and evening.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



18th Sep 1917 Working Parties  9th Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Ruyaulcourt engaged in Parades and working parties as usual.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



19th Sep 1917 Football  At Ruyaulcourt 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers held Parades, bathing and working parties as usual. The Battalion football team beat the 108th Brigade team by two goals to one after a good tussle.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



20th Sep 1917 Sports  9th Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Ruyaulcourt. Parades as usual and working parties. A cross-country run was held in the afternoon with all available Officers and men taking part.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



21st Sep 1917 Reliefs  location map

22nd Sep 1917 Patrols

23rd Sep 1917 Patrols

24th Sep 1917 Quiet

25th Sep 1917 Artillery in Action

26th Sep 1917 Football  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Havrincourt Wood. An uneventful day. Ten Other Ranks proceeded to Divisional Signalling School for a course. In a football match in the afternoon at Transport lines, we defeated a team picked from the North Irish Horse draft by 2,1.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



27th Sep 1917 Shelling  9th Royal Irish Fusiliers report from Havrincourt Wood. "Some desultory shelling indulged in during the day by the enemy and our artillery. Otherwise the situation remains quiet and the weather continues to be fine."

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



28th Sep 1917 Shelling  9th (North Irish Horse) Btn, Royal Irish Fusiliers report from "Our aeroplanes were active. Enemy shelling along the Canal Bank and clear of Faugh-A-Ballagh Bridge was more active than usual but he did us [no] damage whatever. A draft of 42 Other Ranks rejoined the Battalion at the Transport lines."

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



29th Sep 1917 Relief  9th Royal Irish Fusiliers moved into the Brigade Reserve at Ruyaulcourt P.15.b.9.8, with relief by 12th Royal Irish Rifles being completed at about 8pm. A very quiet day. One Other Rank was slightly wounded during the day and total casualties in 9th Irish Fusiliers for the tour of duty was three killed, one died of wounds and one wounded.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



30th Sep 1917 Church Parade  At Ruyaulcourt Church of England and Presbyterians of 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers, paraded for Divine Services at 12 noon. The Corps Commander attended the former service.

The following Officers reported for duty:

  • Major V.G Whitla
  • Captain F.G Uprichard
  • Captain John Grant
  • 2nd Lieutenant R.A Orr
  • 2nd Lieutenant John Scott
  • 2nd Lieutenant R.L Smith.

A football match was held later in the afternoon, the Battalion team versus the North Irish Horse draft team, which the Battalion team won by 2, 1.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



30th of September 1917 Battle Narrative  location map

1st Oct 1917 Working Parties  9th North Irish Horse) Btn, Royal Irish Fusiliers are in Reserve at Ruyaulcourt P.15.b.9.8. Parades, working parties and sports carried on as normal. Brigadier-General R.J Kentish DSO visited the Battalion.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



2nd Oct 1917 Inspection  9th (North Irish Horse) Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers. are at Ruyaulcourt. Brigadier-General R.J Kentish D.S.O again visited the Battalion and lunched at the Headquarters Mess. Training etc. carried on as usual.

2nd Lieutenants W.H Hutchinson, F.J Whalen, H.S Dean and C.B Larter from the North Irish Horse joined the Battalion for duty.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



3rd October 1917 Training and Sports  9th (North Irish Horse) Btn, Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Ruyaulcourt. Training continued as per the programme and preparation continued for sports. The Battalion football team drew with 108th Field Artillery (1 goal all) after a keen tussle. Major G.J Brew rejoined from a Senior Officers' Course at Aldershot and assumed the post of Second-in-Command of the Battalion.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



4th October 1917 Training  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers. are at Ruyaulcourt. Parades, working parties and recreational training as usual.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



5th Oct 1917 Sports  9th Royal Irish Fusiliers. are at Ruyaulcourt P.15.b.9.8. Today was a holiday for the Battalion and sports carried on from 10am all day. There were various inter-Regimental, Brigade and Divisional contests. 1st Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers (107th Brigade) attended in large numbers and in our competitions with them we secured fifteen 'firsts' and seven 'seconds' to their seven 'firsts' and five 'seconds'.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



6th Oct 1917 Wet Day  9th Royal Irish Fusiliers report from Ruyaulcourt. "Very wet day until late in the afternoon and all parades had to be cancelled. Captain Hulse reported for duty."

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers diary WO 95/2505/2



7th October 1917 Daily Activity

8th October 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood K.31.c.0.0.

Corps have ordered all Battalions to be continually on the offensive while holding the line. Consequently the Battalion will organize patrols nightly (weather permitting) and raids will be carried out at fixed periods. Owing to very bad weather no patrols went out on night of 7/8. Very quiet in the line, afternoon and night very wet and the men got a special issue of rum.

War Diaries



9th October 1917 Daily Activity

10th October 1917 Daily Activity

11th October 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood K.31.c.0.0.

Quiet day. Major Ferguson left Headquarters to go to Rouen to check Battalion Records at 3rd Echelon. B Company relieved D Company at R.3 and A Company relieved C Company on Yorkshire Bank.

War Diaries



12th October 1917 Daily Activity

13th October 1917 Daily Activity

14th October 1917 Daily Activity

15th October 1917 Daily Activity

16th October 1917 Daily Activity

17th October 1917 Daily Activity

18th October 1917 Daily Activity

19th October 1917 Improvements

20th October 1917 Daily Activity

21st October 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Church Parades were held in the morning and Rugby football in the afternoon (first practice). A very fine day.

The following decorations have been awarded for gallantry in the field at Ypres on 16th August 1917:

  • Military Cross.
  • Captain T.F Given
  • Captain R.S Flood
  • Captain O.V Burrows Royal Army Medical Corps
  • Regimental Sergeant Major C.H Turner

  • Distinguished Conduct Medal.
  • 17545 Sergeant S Carvell;

  • Military Medal.
  • 13971 Sergeant J Adams, 14555 Sergeant J McCullough
  • 14720 Sergeant A Jurkington, 16117 Acting Corporal R.W Knaggs
  • 14748 Lance Corporal Whiteside S, 23926 Private Shanks C
  • 20353 Private Rogers J, 24174 Lance Corporal Jackson E
  • 22562 Private Steele G, 14154 Private Elliott J
  • 14566 Private McCormick R.J, 15864 Private Lynn W.J, 14447 Private Morton J.

These awards were announced on 4th October 1917.

War Diaries



22nd October 1917 Daily Activity

23rd October 1917 Daily Activity

24th October 1917 Daily Activity

25th October 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood.

a quiet day in the line. On the night of 25/26 Oct., our fighting patrols dislodged the enemy from Wigan Copse and the rifle pits to north of it at 0200.

War Diaries



26th October 1917 Daily Activity

27th October 1917 Daily Activity

28th October 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood.

A quiet day in the line. Our artillery was active during both day and night. Some Bosche seen in Dean Copse were dispersed by our Lewis Gun fire.

Weather good with bright moonlight nights.

War Diaries



29th October 1917 Daily Activity

30th October 1917 Daily Activity

31st October 1917 Daily Activity

1st November 1917 Reliefs

2nd November 1917 Daily Activity

3rd November 1917 9th Irish Fusilers form working parties  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Ruyaulcourt. With A & B Companies on working parties today.

At 1630 C Company left Ruyaulcourt and marched up to the line to carry out a raid. The enemy's front line was successfully penetrated from the Canal (K.26.d.05.95) to about 150 yards east of it. The fighting was very severe as the enemy refused to surrender. Our men stayed in the enemy trenches for twenty minutes and bayoneted and shot at least forty Germans.

We suffered some casualties, mostly from bombs: one Officer severely wounded, one Officer slightly wounded; one NCO killed, three Other Ranks missing believed killed, thirteen Other Ranks wounded, one R.E [Royal Engineer] (NCO) severely wounded.

War Diaries



3rd of November 1917 A Successful Raid  location map

4th November 1917 Daily Activity

4th of November 1917 Our Trenches Damaged  location map

5th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Ruyaulcourt.

The new ante-room at Battalion Headquarters was lined with canvas and made more comfortable. The whole Battalion with exception of C Company were on working parties.

War Diaries



7th November 1917 Departure for France  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Ruyaulcourt.

A and B Companies carried out scale of parades. C and D Companies were on working parties.

War Diaries



8th November 1917 Daily Activity

9th November 1917 Daily Activity

10th November 1917 Daily Activity

11th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood.

Battalion in the line. Quiet day. No enemy activity.

War Diaries



12th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood.

Battalion in the line.

War Diaries



13th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood.

Battalion in the line. Yorkshire Bank shelled by 5.9 inch guns and trench mortars.

War Diaries



14th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood.

Battalion in the line. Enemy trench mortar fire on Yorkshire Bank in reply to our pigs who were firing on front line and Havringcourt.

Casualties: Three Other Ranks killed, one Other Rank severely wounded.

War Diaries



15th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood.

Battalion in the line. Several heavy machine gun Officers reconnoitering the Battalion left sub-sector otherwise a quiet day.

War Diaries



16th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Havrincourt Wood K.31.c.0.0.

Battalion in the line. No enemy activity. Several heavy machine gun Officers reconnoitering round the line. Our heavy trench mortars very active firing on enemy front line and west of Havrincourt.

War Diaries



17th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Relieved by 2/5th King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry at 2200.

Battalion marched to Bertincourt less one Platoon of C Company who were left behind to form an outpost for 2/5 King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry on Yorkshire Bank.

War Diaries



18th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Barastre O.16 (centre).

Battalion moved from Bertincourt and is comfortably encamped in Adrian and Nissen Huts and tents.

War Diaries



19th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Velu Wood J.31.c (centre).

Battalion inspected in the morning by the Commanding Officer at Barastre. Moved at 1630 to Headquarters in Velu Wood (on eve of push).

The following 'immediate awards' have been notified by Brigade as result of our Havrincourt raid on 3rd inst.

  • Military Medal
  • 18869 Corporal Mackinson, Henry.
  • 41327 Private Morrison, John.
  • 41256 Private Chambers, Thomas.
  • 41534 Private Averell, Robert.
  • 23438 Corporal Craig, George.

War Diaries



20th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Maxwell Avenue K.25.d.9.9.

The Division (109th Brigade) moved to the attack at 0620 with 107th and 108th Brigades in support. Battalion 'details' remain in Velu Wood under command of Major J.G Brew and Transport at Hermies Slag Heap.

2nd Lieutenant E.J.L Turner, Transport Officer, returned from leave.

The Battalion moved to a position 500 yards north-east of Velu Wood at 0820. At 1400 the Battalion moved from this position to Broken Bridge for dinner. At 1530 moved to R.3. The Battalion went into dugouts at 2040 for the night.

War Diaries



21st November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

The Battalion moved from R.3 at 1500 to enemies old lines near Lock 7 where it slept for the night in dugouts.

War Diaries



22nd November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Moeuvres.

The Battalion moved up at 0630 to a position north of Bapaume and Cambrai Road arriving at 0830. Here the Battalion waited for an order to attack Inchi when Moeuvres was taken by the 12th Royal Irish Rifles. At 1145 the 12th Royal Irish Rifles captured village of Moeuvres. It was unable to clear trenches east of village.

At 1730 the Battalion moved up to support the 12th Royal Irish Rifles in the village of Moeuvres. At 1745 the 12th Royal Irish Rifles were reported to have been driven out of the village. At 2030 the Battalion less D Company counter attacked the village of Moeuvres, but was driven back to trenches immediately south of the village, where it took up a defensive position for the night.

War Diaries



23rd November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Moeuvres.

The Battalion attacked Moeuvres at 1030. At 1100 the Battalion reported to be in the village. At 1145 the enemy counter attacked from trenches west of village and by 1315pm the counter attack was driven off.

At 1630 the village was evacuated by the Battalion on account of supports not coming up.

At 1700 C and D Companies took up position on Sunken Road, south of the village while A and B companies went back to the trenches north of Bapaume and Cambrai Road.

Casualties for 22nd and 23rd: Officers killed one; Officers wounded six; Other Ranks 82 casualties.

War Diaries



24th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Battalion relieved in the trenches by the 11th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers at dawn.

Proceeded to Hermies for rest and reorganisation.

War Diaries



25th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Battalion resting at Hermies.

War Diaries



26th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Hermies.

At 1830 the Battalion moved from Hermies to Beaumetz. At 2030 the Battalion arrived at Beaumetz and was put into tents for the night.

War Diaries



27th November 1917 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers On the Move  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers left Beaumetz and moved to Rocquigny, arriving at 2030.

War Diaries



28th November 1917 At Rest  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers are resting in Rocquigny. 'A' Company was bathed and had a clean change.

War Diaries



29th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Rocquigny.

Battalion entrained at Ytres at 2030 for Beaumetz south of Arras.

Battalion detrained at Beaumetz at 0245 on November 30th and marched to billets at Simencourt, arriving at 0320.

War Diaries



30th November 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Simencourt.

The Battalion left Simencourt at 1400 for Gomincourt, arriving at 1930.

War Diaries



1st December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Gomincourt.

The Battalion left Gomincourt at 1200 for Rocquigny and arrived at 1930.

War Diaries



2nd December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Rocquigny.

The Battalion left Rocquigny for Metz-le-Coutre, arrived at Metz 1430 and billeted for the night.

War Diaries



3rd December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Metz-le-Coutre.

The Battalion left Metz at 2000 and moved up to the line to support the 88th Brigade south of Marcoing. They arrived in the support trenches at 0530 the 4th December.

War Diaries



4th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Trenches south of Marcoing.

The Battalion is in the trenches south of Marcoing in support of 88th Brigade. They relieved the Essex and Hants Battalions in the front line at 0430.

War Diaries



5th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Trenches south of Marcoing.

Battalion in the line. Captain Flood was killed at 0900 by shrapnel.

War Diaries



6th December 1917 In the Line  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers are in Trenches south of Marcoing. Battalion in the line with two Companies in front line, one in support and one in reserve for use as Battalion counter-attack Company. Enemy shelling position very heavily. Five casualties, four Other Ranks.

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers War Diaries



7th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Trenches south of Marcoing.

Battalion in line with Enemy artillery very active, particularly at 1430 when he attacked on our right. Eight casualties to Other Ranks.

War Diaries



8th Dec 1917 Aeroplanes Active  9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers are in trenches south of Marcoing, with heavy shelling by enemy. Enemy aeroplanes very active over our lines, flying very low. Relieved by 12th Royal Irish Rifles at 10.30pm. Fine day.

While in front line 9th Battalion Irish Fusiliers improved trenches, made latrines, wired in front of trenches, and salved several articles of war. The suffered five casualties to Other Ranks. The Battalion goes into Brigade support on being relieved, less D Company who relieved the Buffs and King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry in communication trench running north and south from front line.

War Diaries



9th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

South of Marcoing. Battalion in Brigade support.

War Diaries



10th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

South of Marcoing.

One-hundred and sixty Other Ranks and four Officers for a working party, carrying up wire to front line. This work in assisting 16th Bn Royal Irish Rifles the Divisions Pioneer Battalion.

War Diaries



11th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

South of Marcoing.

Battalion in Brigade support.

There were four Officers and 100 Other Ranks on a carrying party from 1630 to 0200(12th December 1917).

War Diaries



12th December 1917 Daily Activity  South of Marcoing 9th (North Irish Horse) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers. are in Brigade support on being relieved by 2nd Battalion Royal Irish Rifles in the line at dusk. C Company on right. B Company on outpost line. A Company on left. D Company in support.

War Diaries



13th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

South of Marcoing.

Captured a prisoner at 0430 of the 6th (Reserve Infantry Regiment). Battalion stood to at 0530 to meet a rumoured attack at 0630.

Word received from Division Headquarters at 0330 that the enemy was to attack in great force at 0630. No attack however took place.

War Diaries



14th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

South of Marcoing.

Battalion in the line. Two Other Ranks casualties.

War Diaries



15th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers. are South of Marcoing. Battalion is in the line. D Company relieved B Company in the outpost line. One Officer 2nd Lieutenant Bray and three Other Ranks casualties.

War Diaries



16th Dec 1917 Post Stormed  9th (North Irish Horse) Btn., Royal Irish Fusiliers. report from South of Marcoing: German post stormed by our patrol at 1700 with Gunner bayoneted and machine gun captured. His identification secured (6th Division Reserve Infantry Regiment). Lieutenant Caulfield, 7th Somersets, buried by our Battalion. Trench very much improved and more wire put out. Relieved by 7th Royal Fusiliers at 2100 and marched to Metz. Fifty rifles salved and several thousand rounds of small arms ammunition, also boxes of grenades salved, cleaned and put under cover.

War Diaries



17th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Metz-le-Coutre. Left Metz at 1200 for Etricourt. Billeted in tents at Etricourt.

War Diaries



18th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Etricourt.

Entrained at Etricourt for Mondicourt. Detrained at Mondicourt and marched through deep snow to our billets in the village of Coullemont. The heavy snow delayed our transport, which did not arrive till midnight.

War Diaries



19th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

Working parties out with Forty Other Ranks and one Officer from each Company clearing the road from Coullemont to Couterelle of snow. This work continued to 1630.

War Diaries



20th December 1917 Cleaning Up  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Coullemont. Men working under Company arrangements. Cleaning up.

War Diaries



21st December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

Under Company arrangements. Inspection of arms and equipment.

War Diaries



22nd December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

Battalion Parade by Companies. Scale of parades from 0915 to 1230.

'A' Company bathed in the afternoon.

War Diaries



23rd December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

Battalion paraded at 10.30am for Divine Service at Humbercourt.

War Diaries



24th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

Battalion Parade by Companies. Scale of parades as on the 22nd. B Company bathed during the afternoon.

War Diaries



25th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

Battalion paraded for Divine Services at 1000.

Christmas dinners by Companies between 1300 and 1500. The Commanding Officer was present at each Company dinner.

Snowed heavily during the evening.

War Diaries



27th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

Each Company furnished a working party of forty Other Ranks and one Officer from A and D Companies to sandbag the aerodrome near Mondicourt.

War Diaries



28th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Coullemont.

The Battalion leaves Coullemont, march off at 0530 and Entrained at Mondicourt 0900. They arrived in Boves at 1330 and march to billets in the village.

Snow fell during the evening.

War Diaries



29th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Boves.

Working party in afternoon clearing snow off road from Boves station to cross roads at St Nicholas.

The Train loaded with Battalion transport snowed up and did not arrive till midnight. The unloading party consisting of A Company did not arrive in billets till 2am 30/12/17.

Captain Despard and an NCO proceed to 5th Army Infantry School at Toutencourt.

War Diaries



30th December 1917 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Boves.

Battalion paraded at 1145 for Divine Service in the 4th Corps School Cinema hall.

War Diaries



31st Dec 1917 Parades and demonstration.  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Boves. Battalion paraded under Company arrangements at 0930, principally for kit inspections. Demonstration by 4th Corps School of the improved musketry instruction at 1000. One Officer and one NCO per Company attended also the Intelligence Officer. Route march in the afternoon, parade ready to move off at 1400.

War Diaries



1st January 1918 9th Irish Fusiliers at Boves  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers in rest billets, at Boves, carrying out training programme.

War Diaries



7th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Marcelcave.

Moved from Boves to Marcelcave, 14 kilometres, over ground thickly covered with snow.

The following decorations have been awarded by the Field Marshal, Commander-in-Chief, under authority delegated him by the King:

  • The Military Cross
  • Temporary Captain C.B Despard, D Company,
  • 2nd Lieutenant J.H Partridge B Company (Intelligence Officer);[17]
  • Distinguished Conduct Medal
  • Corporal H Roe, A Company,
  • Company Quartermaster Sergeant G Robinson, D Company,
  • Company Sergeant Major T Vennard, B Company.[18]

War Diaries



10th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Marcelcave.

Moved to Rosieres, 11 kilometres.

War Diaries



11th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Rosieres.

Moved to Carrèpuits, 15 kilometres, through shell-shattered country.

War Diaries



12th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Strength: 39 Officers, 868 Other Ranks, 39 horses, 16 mules.

Increase: Lieutenant R.I McCrum, 2nd Lieutenant Pollock, 2nd Lieutenant Leahy, 2nd Lieutenant Donaldson.

War Diaries



13th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Moved to Villeselve, 20 kilometres.

  • Lieutenant G.W Vesey, A Company, awarded Military Cross
  • 2nd Lieutenant A.A Andrews struck off strength;
  • Sergeant J.A Henry, C Company, and Lance Corporal A.G.H Clarke, C Company, both awarded Military Medal.

36th Division relieved 6th French Division, 108th Brigade in reserve.

War Diaries



17th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Villeselve.

0800 Moved to Grand Seraucourt, 13 kilometres, to reserve billets, 4 kilometres behind line.

Carrying out wiring and intensive digging training.

War Diaries



19th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Grand Seraucourt. Sheet 66cNW 1/20,000.

Strength: 39 Officers, 866 Other Ranks, 39 horses, 16 mules. Decrease: Two Other Ranks.

War Diaries



21st January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Grand Seraucourt.

  • Major A Ferguson awarded Military Cross.
  • No.14040 Sergeant Barton, H, C Company, awarded Distinguished Conduct Medal.

    War Diaries



    22nd January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Grand Seraucourt. 22nd to 24th Jan.

    Four-hundred men digging cable trench between Artemps and Grand Seraucourt.

    War Diaries



    25th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    [25-28 January] Grand Seraucourt.

    Battalion digging reserve trench between Contescourt and Essigny le Grand.

    War Diaries



    26th January 1916 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Strength: Forty Officers, 849 Other Ranks, 39 horses, 16 mules. Decrease: Seventeen Other Ranks.

    Chaplain H.S Bally, Church of England (vice Chaplain S Mayes, Church of England, returned to England).

    War Diaries



    27th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    At 1000 the Divisional Commander presented ribbons of decoration awarded from the recent operations at Moeuvres.

    At 1400. Beat 16 Royal Irish Rifles at football, 5 goals to 1.

    War Diaries



    28th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    At 1700 the 108th Infantry Brigade relieves 109th Infantry Brigade in the right sector on January 28-30th.

    • Boundaries of Right Brigade Sector:
    • Right B.17.c.6.7, B.22.a.5.0 to Essigny Station.
    • Left, Boyau de Moulins (inclusive to Left Brigade)
    • Boyau de Contescourt (inclusive to Left Brigade).
    • Boundary between Battalions B.9.c.9.5 to B.15.a.7.5.

    Brigade on right flank, 41st Infantry Brigade;left, 107th Infantry Brigade.

    B.25.a/26.a. Battalion moves to Brigade support in relief of 9 Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

    Transport to Artemps.

    War Diaries



    29th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    B.22.a Centre. 1700hrs.

    Battalion moves to line in relief of 14th Royal Irish Rifles (Young Citizens) in Right Battalion Sector. Boundaries: Right B.16.d.5.4, left B.9.c.8.1.

    • Dispositions:
    • A and C Companies in line. Boundary between Companies B.10.c.6.3;
    • B Company Counter attack in dugouts,
    • Headquarters, B.16.d.1.4;
    • D Company Passive defence in dugouts,
    • Headquarters, B.22.a Central.

    Relief carried out successfully, notwithstanding condition of trenches very bad, having fallen in partly owing to weather and partly to want of attention. Wiring plentiful. Distance between enemy and our front line averages 1,000 yards.

    War Diaries



    30th January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Situation quiet, apart from enemy aircraft, during the night bombing.

    War Diaries



    31st January 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    B.9.d.9.1. 5.30am.

    German shot about fifty yards in front of A Company. He belonged to 5th Grenadier Regiment, 36th Division.

    From 1400 to 1600 the Battalion and Company Headquarters were fired on with 105mm shells.

    War Diaries



    1st February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Sheet 66cNW 1/20,000 App.101. Line.

    At 2230 Patrol left our line at B.17.a.3.2. No enemy encountered. Another one left at B.8.c.91.25 and found old front line filled in in many places.

    War Diaries



    2nd February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Strength: Forty Officers, 846 Other Ranks, 38 horses, 16 mules. Increase: Three Other Ranks. Decrease: One horse.

    War Diaries



    3rd February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Our heavies fired on the enemy reserve lines during afternoon. Enemy, Fourteen 105mm high explosives fired on B14c and d, wounding two men, one man wounded by Lewis Gun fire in B16a, during night.

    War Diaries



    4th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    1030. Six enemy 105mm high explosives fired on B13d. We made a reconnaissance of our wire from B.17.a.1.2 to B.17.a.4.2 and found it in good order. Emplacement at B.17.a.8.7 destroyed by our shelling.

    1730. Relieved by 12 Royal Irish Rifles and moved to Brigade support B.20.c with one Company at B.15.c.

    War Diaries



    5th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Awards:

    • Croix de Guerre (Belgian) to Corporal E.A Godeon (MC) and Acting Corporal W Knaggs (MM), D Company.
    • Decoration Militaire to 14388 Private Stewart, T, B Company.

    War Diaries



    6th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    6-8 February 1918

    Occasional enemy shelling. Casualties, two wounded.

    War Diaries



    9th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Strength: 37 Officers, 853 Other Ranks, 36 horses, 16 mules.

    Increase: Seven Other Ranks.

    Decrease: 2nd Lieutenant Galloway (Medical Board, England), 2nd Lieutenant J.I McCausland (6 months duty, England), 2nd Lieutenant E.V Crothers (transferred Indian Army) and two horses.

    Support B.20.c line, left sub-sector. 1730. Relieved by 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    After relief, proceeded to relieve 11/13 Royal Irish Rifles in left sub-sector.

    • Dispositions:
    • B Company in right sector,
    • D Company in left sector,
    • A and C Companies, ½ each counter attack and passive resistance.

    War Diaries



    10th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Front quiet except for occasional shelling. One man wounded by enemy sniper.

    War Diaries



    11th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    1730. Major Brew, Commanding, Padre and Orderly Room Staff moved to B.20.c.1.1. Captain M Henehan MC remaining as acting second-in-command.

    War Diaries



    13th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    13-15 February 1918

    Activity mostly in artillery, air and sniping. Occasional bursts of 5.9 inch shells on rear Battalion Headquarters at B.20.c.1.1. Large numbers of enemy aircraft passed over during nights and bombed back areas. Four men wounded by enemy snipers.

    War Diaries



    16th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Effective strength: 46 Officers, 1,066 Other Ranks, 36 horses, 16 mules.

    • Increase: Draft from 7/8th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers on disbandment.
    • A Company, 2nd Lieutenant W.G Greenaway, 2nd Lieutenant A Wilding MC, 2nd Lieutenant T Bremner;
    • B Company, 2nd Lieutenant W.F Reid, 2nd Lieutenant D Miller;
    • C Company, 2nd Lieutenant G Hardy, 2nd Lieutenant J Darling, 2nd Lieutenant J Benson;
    • D Company, 2nd Lieutenant W.H Roche; Other Ranks, 213.

    War Diaries



    17th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    17-18 February 1918

    Patrols nightly in No man's land but no enemy encountered and wire found good. Officers in enemy front line seen observing our lines through glasses.

    War Diaries



    19th February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly returned from leave and resumed command. Major Brew at three days conference with President Corps Commander Sir Ivor H Maxse.

    One man killed and one wounded.

    War Diaries



    21st February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    2nd Lieutenant G.E Scott wounded with small splinter and remained at duty.

    War Diaries



    22nd February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

    On night 22/23rd the Division Front was reorganised, with one Battalion of each Brigade in the line.

    Brigade boundaries as follows:

    • (a)Right as at present,
    • (b) between left and centre Brigades: junction of Cabal Trench and old front line (B.8.c.90.60), B.14.a.15.77, A.18.c.10.00, A.16.c.05.70.
    • (c) between right and centre Brigades: Junction of Borellier Trench and St Quentin, Vendeuil Road (B.10.c.60.40), B.15.a.70.00, A.29.a.9.6, G.4 Central.
    • (d) left boundary: Canal.

    Dispositions: The disposition of Brigades from right to left: 108, 107, 109th. 108 Brigade Garrisons 'C' Subsector of the Battle Zone.

    • Left sub-sector: at 1730 the Battalion was relieved as follows:
    • All posts west of boundary between centre and left Brigades, by 9th Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
    • Remainder of Battalion (including) C Company (passive resistance) by 15th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles about 1900.

      The Battalion on relief moved to Brigade Reserve at Grand Seraucourt.

      War Diaries



      23rd February 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      23rd to 28th Feb 1918

      Grand Seraucourt. Training and working on cable and other trenches in Battle Zone.

      • February Effective strength: 47 Officers, 1,071 Other Ranks, 36 horses, 16 mules.
      • Increase: Captain C.J Brennan (from 10th Reserve Battalion), 2nd Lieutenant Slatter, T (from 7/8th Battalion), 5 Other Ranks.
      • Decrease: Major A Ferguson MC (ordered Medical Board, England).

      War Diaries



      1st March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Grand Seraucourt.

      1730. Battalion moved to support at Essigny Station in relief of 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      War Diaries



      2nd March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      2 March Essigny Station.

      Working on defences of Battle Zone daily until 7th March

      • Effective strength: Officers 46, Other Ranks 1083, horses 36, mules 16.
      • Decrease: Captain J Grant (Medical Board, England).
      • Increase: Twelve Other Ranks.

      War Diaries



      7th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      1800. Relieved 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers in line, with 2nd Royal Irish Rifles on left and 8 King's Royal Rifles on right.

      War Diaries



      9th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      9 March - Patrolling and wiring nightly until 14th March.

      Our artillery lively cutting enemy wire and sweeping likely places of assembly for enemy attack. Enemy artillery unusually quiet. Great aerial activity owing to fine weather and visibility. One enemy aircraft brought down on enemy line opposite left Battalion front.

      1500 9th March Enemy machine gun captured without opposition by 2nd Lieutenant W.G Greenaway and three Other Ranks from position at B.17.a.9.8.

      Effective strength: Officers 46, Other Ranks 1076, horses 36, mules 16. Decrease: Seven Other Ranks.

      War Diaries



      14th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      2000. Relieved by 12th Royal Irish Rifles and moved to Grand Seraucourt in reserve.

      War Diaries



      16th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      • Effective strength: Officers 45, Other Ranks 1058, horses 37, mules 18.
      • Increase: Horses 1, mules 2.
      • Decrease: Officer 1, 2nd Lieutenant W.G Greenaway transferred to Royal Flying Corps, England; Other Ranks 18.

      War Diaries



      17th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Grand Seraucourt.

      St Patrick's Day. Sunday. Church Parade in morning and sports in evening.

      War Diaries



      18th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      18-20 March 1918 Intensive training, by Platoons, in morning. Specialist training in evening.

      War Diaries



      21st March 1918 Start of German Offensive.  At 2am. 9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers report "Intensive enemy barrage opened on our positions, for a depth of from 4 to 6 kilometres."

      At 0600 enemy attacked and Battalion moved to Brigade Headquarters just east of village.

      • 2nd Lieutenant Prenter and four Other Ranks killed.
      • 2nd Lieutenant Perkins and 16 Platoon missing.
      • Part of 2 Platoons of A Company missing.

      War Diaries



      21st of March 1918 "Man Battle Stations"  location map

      22nd March 1918   9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers fell back on Halpincourt, where we remained during the day, falling back on Ollizey in the evening.

      War Diaries



      24th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Remained at Fleuesle for the day, and fell back on Guiscard, remaining there for the night.

      Captain Partridge MC killed and Captain Vesey MC wounded during night.

      War Diaries



      25th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      25-26 March 1918 Fell back through Busse to Avrilcourt and then marched via Tilloloy, Popincourt, Grivillers, Marquivillers, Guerbigny to Erches, arriving at 1100 on morning of 26th. Lewis Guns were sent by lorry previous night.

      Major Brew and details went into line in front of Erches.

      Remainder of Battalion under Captain Despard MC formed reserves west of Erches.

      War Diaries



      27th March 1918 Enemy Attack  The enemy attacked and the Royal Irish Rifles fell back on 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers in reserve, who fell back with same to a position south of Arvillers, and then south of the village, where they remained the night.

      War Diaries



      28th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      This party under Captains Despard, Crosbie and Dean, and 2nd Lieutenant Davison, fell back, by orders, through Hangesy-en-Santerre, Plessier, Rosainvillers, Moreuil, Mailly-Raineval, Sourdon, remaining there the night.

      War Diaries



      29th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Marched from Sourdon, via Ailly-sur-Noye, Jumel to Taisnil.

      War Diaries



      30th March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Marched from Taisnil to Sauleul [Salouël] and remained the night.

      War Diaries



      31st March 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Entrained from Sauleux [Saleux] to Eu and marched to St Quentain-le-Mott.

      War Diaries



      31st of March 1918 Account of Operations  location map

      1st April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      St Quentain-Le-Mott. Marched to Ault and had general clean up, some bathing.

      War Diaries



      2nd April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      2-3 April 1918 Training parades

      War Diaries



      4th April 1918 On the Move.  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers entrained at Eu for Rexpoede at 2am travelling by motor lorries to Herzeele.

      War Diaries



      4th of April 1918 An Appreciation

      5th April 1918 Parades  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers report "Training parades; two Companies at baths in morning and two in afternoon. Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly returned from Hospital to Battalion."

      War Diaries



      6th April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Inspection of Brigade by II Corps Commander.

      War Diaries



      7th April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Church Parade.

      War Diaries



      8th April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training parades.

      • Effective strength: 22 Officers, 728 Other Ranks, 37 horses, 22 mules.
      • Ration strength: 16 Officers, 547 Other Ranks, 41 horses, 22 mules.

      War Diaries



      9th April 1918 9th Irish Fusiliers to Siege Camp No.4  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers entrained at Herzeele 0900 for Poperinghe. On arrival marched to Siege Camp No.IV

      War Diaries



      10th April 1918 Defense  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers travel by motor lorries to Kemmel and set up to man Kemmel defenses at Lindenhoek Corner.

      War Diaries



      11th April 1918 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers endure shelling  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers defend Kemmel to Messines Ridge. Headquarters at Stinking Farm. Heavy enemy shelling.

      War Diaries



      12th April 1918 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers near Wulverghem  At 0200 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers moved to near Wulverghem with Headquarters at N Midland Farm. Enemy attacked, pressing back our line. Counter attack completely restored position. Casualties heavy, including Medical Officer, Lieutenants Hamilton, Hardy and Miller killed. Captain Dean, Lieutenants Turner and Orr wounded.

      War Diaries



      12th of April 1918 Enemy Advances  location map

      13th April 1918 9th Irish Fusiilers relieved  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers are relieved by Sherwood Foresters at midnight.

      War Diaries



      13th of April 1918 Under Heavy Attack  location map

      14th April 1918 9th Irish Fusiliers on Kemmel defences  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers moved back to Kemmel defences.

      War Diaries



      15th April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      0900. Moved to Regent Street dugouts. C Company manned outpost positions and was attacked. Captain Crosbie wounded and died same day.

      War Diaries



      16th April 1918 9th Irish Fusiliers move to Clydesdale Camp  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers moved back to Clydesdale Camp at midnight for rest and reorganisation.

      War Diaries



      18th April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      0200. Moved to Kemmel as composite Battalion with 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly.

      Heavy casualties, while moving into position, from enemy shelling. Captain Despard wounded and died soon after. 2000. Relieved by French troops and marched to Siege Camp.

      War Diaries



      20th April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Colonel Kelly evacuated to Hospital with shrapnel wound.

      Reorganisation and training parades.

      Ration strength: 11 Officers, 489 Other Ranks, 40 horses, 22 mules

      War Diaries



      22nd April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Major G.M Forde MC assumed command

      War Diaries



      23rd April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Four Officers and about thirty Other Ranks reinforce.

      War Diaries



      27th April 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      27th to 30th April 1918.

      0400. Move to Yellow Line, Headquarters at Border Camp. Working on defences and training till end of month.

      Effective strength: 29 Officers, 651 Other Ranks, 35 horses, 22 mules.

      Ration strength: 24 Officers, 507 Other Ranks, 35 horses, 22 mules.

      War Diaries



      1st May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Sheet 28 NW E.6.b, 1/20,000. Yellow Line.

      Working on defences and training specialists during day. Line manned by skeleton forces by night.

      • Dispositions:
      • Two Corps in line, one support and one reserve.
      • Right boundary Dirty Bucket Corner,
      • left Alexandra Farm.
      • Flanking units:
      • right 12 Royal Irish Rifles.
      • left Belgian Cyclist Battalion.

      War Diaries



      3rd May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers team beat Belgian team at football by four goals to nil.

      War Diaries



      4th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      1700. Moved to Green Line, in relief of 12 Royal Irish Rifles.

      War Diaries



      5th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers report "Defences worked on by day and manned by night. Brigade specialist classes commenced at transport lines, International Corner.

      • Effective strength: 32 Officers, 673 Other Ranks, 35 horses and 20 mules.
      • Ration strength: 27 Officers, 530 Other Ranks, 39 horses and 20 mules.
      Dispositions: Four Companies in line, Middlesex Battalion on right Belgian Battalion on left."

      War Diaries



      10th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      1700. Battalion relieved by 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers and moved back to Yellow Line. Billets in (Steentje?) Camp. Headquarters at Fa(?). Work and training continued.

      War Diaries



      12th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      • Church Parades in evening.
      • Effective strength: 34 Officers, 678 Other Ranks, 33 horses and 21 mules.
      • Ration strength: 39 Officers, 609 Other Ranks, 37 horses and 21 mules.
      • Increase: Lieutenant E.A Godson (MC), Lieutenant K Morrow (TO).

      War Diaries



      17th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Sheet 28NW E.6.b 1/20,000. Yellow Line.

      • 2000. Relieved 2nd Royal Irish Rifles in Brigade Reserve in front
      • system Left Brigade Sector.
      • Dispositions:
      • right front, C Company;
      • left front, B Company;
      • support, A and D Companies with Headquarters in Canal bank.
      • Flanking units:
      • right, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers;
      • left, Belgian Battalion.

      Relief completed about 12 midnight.

      Working on defences by night only, to avoid observation. Enemy activity confined to shelling, probably meant for batteries west of canal. One fatal casualty in A Company. Brilliant sunshine and intense heat during six-day tour.

      War Diaries



      18th May 1918 Strength  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      • Effective strength: 34 Officers, 935 Other Ranks, 32 horses, 21 mules.
      • Ration strength: 27 Officers, 646 Other Ranks, 36 horses, 21 mules.
      • Increase: 235 Other Ranks.
      • Decrease: 1 horse.

      War Diaries



      23rd May 1918 Reliefs  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers are in Brigade Reserve, at Canal Bank.

      2100. Relieved 12th Royal Irish Rifles, in right sub-sector, front system. Dispositions: right front, A Company; left front, C Company and one Platoon D Company. D Company (three Platoons). Reserve: B Company. Headquarters: Hill Top Farm. Flanking units: Right, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers; left, 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Relief passed off satisfactorily. At 2330 the enemy put down a heavy barrage on the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers and raided one of their posts. Otherwise the night passed quietly.

      War Diaries



      24th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref Special Sheet, St Julien 6B 1/10,000.

      Right sector front line. Owing to bad observation the day passed very quietly. During the night our patrols investigated the vicinity of Von Hugel Farm and Cheddar Villa. No signs of enemy were encountered. The night passed unusually quietly, probably owing to a suspected relief.

      War Diaries



      25th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The day passed quietly. At 0330 and 1630 C.22.e was lightly shelled by 4.5 inch howitzers east sector of our lines at 1115 and were unsuccessfully engaged. Nothing of importance occurred during the day.

      War Diaries



      26th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Our own artillery showed increased activity throughout the day without drawing hostile retaliation. A fighting patrol of two Officers and twelve Other Ranks failed to discover any trace of the enemy between Jasper and Rat Farms.

      Enemy machine-guns were lightly active during the night on roads and tracks.

      War Diaries



      27th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      At 0230 hostile bombardment commenced on left of Brigade front and spread north where the enemy attempted to raid the Belgians at 0300 on our left. With the exception of a few shells on Wietje at about 0300, hostile artillery inactive on this front. Our own artillery was active during the day and replied vigorously to enemy bombardment in the morning. A fighting patrol failed to discover traces of the enemy west of Jasper Farm. At 2310 the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers on our left raided an enemy post near C.17.c.45.45, but found the garrison had cleared. Our artillery continued the bombardment till 2340. 6" Stokes Mortar assisted. During the operation a fire was observed in Rat Farm.

      Absence of hostile machine-gun fire, artillery retaliation and Verey Lights was marked.

      War Diaries



      28th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Right sub-sector front line Hill Top.

      At 0530 hostile artillery shelled the Battalion on our left, apparently in retaliation for the raid. Owing to excellent visibility there was great aerial activity during the morning and many observation balloons were up. The day passed quietly.

      War Diaries



      29th May 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The day passed quietly on this front. The Battalion was relieved in the right sub-sector by the 2nd Royal Irish Rifles, 107th Infantry Brigade, and on relief moved by light railway to Hospital Farm Camp. In spite of hostile shelling on the entraining point, no casualties were suffered during the relief.

      Total casualties during this tour: 3 Other Ranks died of wounds, 2 wounded, 1 self-inflicted, 1 W-(?)-D.

      Fighting strength: 34 Officers, 974 Other Ranks.

      On relief the 108th Infantry Brigade moved into Divisional Reserve.

      War Diaries



      30th May 1918 9th Irish Fusiliers at Hospital Farm  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Hospital Farm. The day was spent in cleaning up etc.

      War Diaries



      31st May 1918 Working Parties  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers are at Hospital Farm in Divisional Reserve.

      Provided working party of two Companies on Green Line. Two Companies training. The whole Battalion was bathed during the day. Major R.G Kerr MC reported his arrival and assumed duties of Second-in-Command.

      War Diaries



      1st June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref sheet, local sheet, 27 NE 3A 1/20000. Hospital Farm.

      Divisional Reserve.

      Specialists classes for Lewis Gunners, Signallers and Section leaders with remainder of Battalion working on Green Line from 0600 to 1200 under Royal Engineers. The afternoon and evening spent in recreation.

      War Diaries



      2nd June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Hospital Farm. Divisional Reserve.

      Church Parades in the morning followed by a cleaning up parade for every man in the Battalion.

      War Diaries



      3rd June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Proven. F.1.d.1.5.

      The Battalion was relieved in Divisional Reserve by a Battalion of a Belgian Division. On relief the Battalion moved to Proven. Battalion Headquarters at F.1.d.1.5.

      War Diaries



      4th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Proven. F.1.d.1.5.

      Battalion remained at Proven. Company training in the morning. 1400 Commanding Officer's parade.

      w



      5th June 1918   9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Proven. F.1.d.1.5.

      The whole Battalion with the exception of specialist classes entrained at 0430 for work on the East Poperinghe rail line, returning at 1430. The afternoon was spent in recreation. Lieutenant McCausland reported his arrival.

      6th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Proven. F.1.d.1.5.

      Battalion working parties as usual entrained at 0430.

      War Diaries



      7th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Proven. F.1.d.1.5.

      Battalion working parties as usual entrained at 4.30am.

      Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant Barbour awarded the Military Cross for good work since the Division came to France.

      War Diaries



      8th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Proven. F.1.d.1.5. Battalion working parties as usual.

      War Diaries



      9th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Proven. F.1.d.1.5.

      Church Parades during the morning. At 1130 the General Officer Commanding 36th Division inspected the Battalion in drill order and presented medal ribbons. A portion of the camp was also inspected. A draft of 127 Other Ranks was received during the last two days. The afternoon was spent in recreation.

      War Diaries



      10th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion working parties entrained as usual at 0430.

      Strength: 34 Officers, 974 Other Ranks

      Ration strength: 23 Officers, 781 Other Ranks.

      War Diaries



      11th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      11th - 12th Jun. Working parties as usual.

      War Diaries



      13th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Road Camp. E.25.d.2.5. The Battalion moved to Road Camp.

      War Diaries



      14th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Army Commander inspected the 108th Infantry Brigade at 1130. Parade strength of the Battalion was 21 Officers, 568 Other Ranks. The Companies bathed during the afternoon. The Divisional Commander gave a lecture to all Officers in the 108th Infantry Brigade at 1700.

      War Diaries



      15th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Bois St Acaire.

      The Battalion moved to Bois St Acaire training area, each Company working as an advance guard to a Battalion.

      War Diaries



      16th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Church Parade. Details of the Battalion bathed. Afternoon was spent in recreation.

      War Diaries



      17th June 1918 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers train  17-19 June 1918 9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers war diary records: Company training including bayonet fighting and musketry. One Company each morning on the range. Specialists classes in the afternoon for Lewis Gunners, Scouts, Signallers, Section Commanders, etc. The range open for voluntary shooting practice in the the evening.

      War Diaries



      20th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref Local Sheet 27 NE 1/10000. Bois St Acaire. Training continued as on previous days.

      War Diaries



      21st June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training continued as on previous days, each Company carrying out a flag attack. A successful Battalion concert held in the evening.

      War Diaries



      22nd June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      During the morning a practice attack was carried out by the Battalion. The Battalion during the afternoon moved to Road Camp.

      War Diaries



      23rd June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Road Camp. Church Parades. Lecture to all Officers on aerial photography. Afternoon was spent in recreation.

      War Diaries



      24th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      During the morning a practice flagged attack was carried out by the Battalion on Flying Ground at Proven. During the afternoon Battalion bathed.

      War Diaries



      25th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Battalion moved to the musketry camp, Cormette, by train from Proven to St Omer. Strength 30 Officers, 670 Other Ranks.

      War Diaries



      26th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Cormette.

      Battalion paraded at 0900 for physical drill. Lecture by Commanding Officer to all Officers and Section Commanders from 0910. From 1100 to 1400 on range for firing. Gas lecture by Division Gas Officer in afternoon.

      War Diaries



      27th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      In the morning Battalion carried out a tactical scheme on 'C' training area from 0800 to 1200. Football match at 1400 against 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers. From 1600 - 1900 Battalion on the range.

      A successful concert was held in the evening.

      War Diaries



      28th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref Hazebrouck 5A. Special Sheet 27 NE local ed. 5A 1/20000. Cormette.

      Battalion tactical exercise in the morning from 0800 to 1300. Three Companies attacked the enemy outpost line on the Zudausques, St Martin-au-Laert Road. One Company represented the enemy. From 2130 to 0100 the Battalion carried out a night outpost scheme, with three Companies holding an outpost line outside Leuline and Etrehem, one Company attacking.

      Lieutenants Dobbyn MC and A.S Galloway, 2nd Lieutenant F.S Bale reported for duty.

      War Diaries



      29th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion parade from 0830 to 1000 for drill. On the range from 1100 until 1400. All details carried out a snap shooting practice at 1500. At 1425 the Battalion paraded in walking out order and marched into St Omer, where they were dismissed until 2030. Teas were provided and the outing proved a great success. 2nd Lieutenant McFarland reported for duty.

      War Diaries



      30th June 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The 108th Infantry Brigade moved back to the Proven area, entraining at St Omer at 9am. Brigade transport moved by road. On arrival the Battalion was billeted in Peterborough Camp. Battalion Headquarters F.1.c.80.30.

      • Strength: 30 Officers, 957 Other Ranks
      • Ration strength 29 Officers, 800 Other Ranks.
      • Awards during the month:
      • Distinguished Conduct Medal - 23566 Sergeant R.J McBride.
      • Military Medal - 41414 Private B Wasson, 41329 Private B McCarley, 14474 Sergeant W.J Mitchell, 14393 Private W Kelly, 43201 Private G.F Miller.

      War Diaries



      1st July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Map Ref 27 NE Local 1/20000 L Sheet 27 Sheet 28. Proven.

      Divisional Horse Show was held on the ground of the aerodrome at Proven on account of the fine weather and proved a great success. A large percentage of the Battalion attended.

      War Diaries



      2nd July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion on working parties. Four companies working on East Poperinghe Line. Approximate strength of working parties 430. Working parties on completion of work march to Road Camp E.25.d.20.50.

      War Diaries



      3rd July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Road Camp.

      Battalion moves to Le Carreaux area, route St-Jan-Ter-Biezen, K.17, K.16.b.8.6, K.27, Steenvoorde. Area taken over from the French 79th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Battalion, Nonebosche.

      War Diaries



      4th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      NoneBosche Area.

      Training continued under Company Commanders from 0900 to 1215. Afternoon recreational.

      War Diaries



      5th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training as on the 4th inst. Specialist training under instructors.

      War Diaries



      6th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion parade in morning at 0930. Echelon B in rear of each Company. 2nd Lieutenant Ross C.Q. taken over duty as Battalion Intelligence Officer.

      Battalion in the evening relieved the Reserve Battalion of the 42nd Infantry Regiment (French) in the vicinity of Piebrouck. Route Godewaerswelde, Q.18.a.50.7, Piebrouck. Parade 2300 ready to move.

      Strength: Officers 19, Other Ranks 592.

      Battalion details move to Ecke area, billeted together with details of 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers and 12th Royal Irish Rifles. Strength: Officers 6, Other Ranks 97.

      War Diaries



      7th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Piebrouck (Reserve).

      Battalion in the evening relieved a Battalion of the 23rd French Regiment in the Hoogenacker sector. Relief was completed without disturbance at about 0200. Remainder of night passed quietly.

      War Diaries



      8th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Hoogenacker (Left sub-sector).

      The day was quiet, except for aircraft activity. At night enemy machine-guns were fairly active firing on reserve positions. Enemy transport heard quite plainly.

      War Diaries



      9th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Aircraft very active. A paper gas balloon was dropped over enemy's lines. At night usual machine-gun firing with some trench mortars.

      War Diaries



      10th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Day and night passed off quietly. Nothing else of importance.

      War Diaries



      11th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary activity. While reconnoitering front line with Colonel Lowe, Major Kerr was killed at 0100.

      War Diaries



      12th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Slightly more activity from enemy artillery. Battalion was relieved by the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers and moved into Brigade Reserve on Mont Noir (M.19.d.65.05). Sheet Kemmel 28 SW 1/10000.

      Total casualties: 1 Officer and 8 Other Ranks

      War Diaries



      13th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mont Noir.

      Men engaged on work parties on defence lines, working partly by day and by night.

      War Diaries



      14th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Same programme as previous day. Small red balloon with propaganda matter dropped from enemy aeroplane.

      War Diaries



      15th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Enemy guns active. Numerous shells dropping during day especially in Quarry causing two casualties.

      War Diaries



      16th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Everything normal. Enemy artillery active at Quarry. At midnight 12th Royal Irish Rifles attempted to raid enemy unsuccessfully. A heavy barrage was laid on enemy lines to which he replied feebly.

      War Diaries



      17th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      At 0300 [17 July] enemy raided 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers. The relief intended to take place was cancelled. At midnight everybody stood to in anticipation of enemy attack which, however, did not happen. Our artillery were very active throughout the night.

      Major Tamplin joined the Battalion at Mont Noir.

      Relief took place at night of 12th Royal Irish Rifles in right sector (Meulehouck).

      Strength: 19 Officers, 565 Other Ranks.

      War Diaries



      19th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Meulehouck (right of left sub-sector).

      0800. The 9th Division on our right captured Meteren. Enemy retaliation was slight. One hit with small shell on Battalion Headquarters. The night was fairly quiet with light artillery activity.

      War Diaries



      20th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Artillery chiefly engaged on back areas. Day and night passed quietly.

      War Diaries



      21st July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Maps, 28 Bailleul & Berthen 1/10000 (Edition 1 B local). Meulehouck (right of left sub-sector). Day and night normal.

      War Diaries



      22nd July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      0045. B Company under Captain Murphy DCM MC and 2nd Lieutenants Reynolds, Leahy, Radcliffe and McFarlane with No.15 Platoon of D Company raided Shoddy Farm. One prisoner was captured and thirty others were estimated to be killed. Our casualties: Two Officers and five Other Ranks missing with eleven slightly wounded. The enemy put down a machine-gun barrage followed by artillery support while the party was in No Man's Land. We also captured two light machine-guns, one of which was lost through the carrier becoming a casualty. During day and following night ordinary activity on either side. A Platoon patrolled at night in search of missing men with no success.

      War Diaries



      23rd July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Day was quiet. Same patrol at night but no bodies were found. The Battalion was relieved by the 9th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and moved with the remainder of Brigade into Divisional Reserve at Spotterke (R.15.d.10.70). Total casualties: 2 Officers and 4 Other Ranks missing, 11 wounded.

      War Diaries



      24th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref sheet 28 Berthen 1/10000. Spotterke.

      No movement is made in daylight as camp is under observation. Battalion engaged on work at night on Berthen defences.

      Company Quartermaster Sergeant Kemp from 1st Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers joins the Battalion as 2nd Lieutenant.

      War Diaries



      25th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Normal during day. At night the Battalions go to Baths at Berthen.

      War Diaries



      26th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Enemy guns more active especially at night. Lewis Gunners fire their guns for testing and practice. Between 2300 and midnight the enemy shell our camp, getting a direct hit on the Medical tent.

      War Diaries



      27th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mont des Cats.

      Battalion shifted camp in small parties to R.13.d.85.75 which is not in view from enemy lines, and billeted in various houses, dugouts and tents so that movement can be made in daylight. No work was done at night.

      War Diaries



      28th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Church Parade was held in the afternoon and part of Battalion bathed at transport lines. Battalion engaged on usual work party at night.

      War Diaries



      29th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Lewis Gun Section from each Company fire at improvised range in the morning. Lecture given by the Commanding Officer in the afternoon. One Company is allowed off usual work party in order to do some training on following day.

      War Diaries



      30th July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mont des Cats.

      Different Lewis Gun Sections fire at range. 'A' Company carries on with training during day. Usual work party at night.

      War Diaries



      31st July 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual parades and work parties. Men with revolvers are given instruction in use of same, carrying out firing practice.

      • Awards during the month:
      • Military Medal, 13658 Sergeant R Johnston, 43447 Private Pye, E;
      • Bar to Military Medal, 13971 Sergeant J Adams.

      Strength: 35 Officers, 973 Other Ranks.

      Total casualties during the month: 1 Officer killed, 2 Officers missing; 3 Other Ranks killed, 40 Other Ranks wounded, 5 Other Ranks missing.

      War Diaries



      1st August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Map Reference Sheet 28 Berthen 1/10000. Mont des Cats.

      One Company carried on with training. Lewis Gun Sections from each Company fired at range and men with revolvers had parade for instruction. At night three Companies were working on Berthen defences. Two men were slightly wounded.

      In afternoon the Division Band played for two hours. Captain J Gibson joined the Battalion from transport lines. Two men were wounded on working party.

      War Diaries



      2nd August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual firing of Lewis Guns. Day was wet; causing parades took form of lectures. At night work was done by five Platoons (C Company and No.13 of D). Casualties, two killed, four wounded.

      War Diaries



      3rd August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training was carried out in forenoon by those Companies who were not working during night and by the whole Battalion in the afternoon from 1300 to 1500. Companies arranged their own programmes of work. At night the usual work party took place.

      War Diaries



      4th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Commanding Officer and Adjutant visited details, Divisional Reception and Reinforcement Camps. Major Tamplin DSO and Lieutenant Richardson with nine Other Ranks attend special Intercessory Service held at Terdeghem in commemoration of the 4th anniversary of the outbreak of war. Usual Lewis Gun firing took place in the morning.

      War Diaries



      5th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mont des Cats.

      Wesleyan and Presbyterians paraded at 1430 for Church with 12th Royal Irish Rifles. Church of Ireland service was held at 1800. No work was done at night.

      War Diaries



      6th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion was inspected by the Commanding Officer at 1300. At 1500 a lecture was given by Captain Bless on the war. The lecture was good but the weather bad. Work was done as usual.

      War Diaries



      7th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary parades took place. Between 2330 and midnight enemy fired about 50 rounds of 5.9 inch shells on battery positions immediately in rear of Battalion area. Our guns retaliated. The usual work was done at night.

      War Diaries



      8th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers report "No training done. At night Battalion relieved the 2nd Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers in right of left sub-sector (Meulehouck). Relief done satisfactorily by 0130. Only one casualty through enemy shelling. Remainder of night passed quietly."

      War Diaries



      9th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Reference Sheet 28 Bailleul 1/10000. Meulehouck.

      Enemy shelled St Jans Cappel with 5.9s throughout day while our guns replied on Bailleul. Our planes very active. Enemy planes seldom crossed our lines. One fired into our trench early in morning. Slight machine gun activity at night. Two patrols were out during night. One was detected at S.2.c.15.20 and fired on. The other under 2nd Lieutenant J Boyd was fired at and bombed from house at S.3.c.10.10, two men being wounded.

      War Diaries



      10th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      At 0315 enemy detected at our wire at S.2.d.35.60 but disappeared on fire being opened. Three blasts of whistle were heard from enemy trench soon after. Enemy guns were active on front line in morning. Twenty (5.9s) on S.1.d.6.6, our guns active day and night on enemy rear area. Usual aircraft activity.

      At 2030 one enemy aircraft was over our line while another was brought down by one of ours. Enemy balloon also brought down in flames south of Bailleul. Patrols were out under Captain J Benson and 2nd Lieutenant Behannah, but did not come into contact with enemy. The latter estimated Shoddy Farm garrison to be forty. At 1830 Lieutenant Dobbyn MC got into enemy trench at S.3.c.8.5 but only found greatcoat and pack. Another patrol under 2nd Lieutenant Burrowes at 1630 got to consolidated shell holes at S.3.c.05.05 where they fired at enemy party.

      War Diaries



      11th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual activity on either side. At 0400 twenty rounds of heavy Trench Mortars were fired on left of sector. At 2300 patrol of 32 Other Ranks under Captain J Benson and 2nd Lieutenant Behannah attempted to raid Shoddy Farm but were attacked in rear and after hand-to-hand fight in which casualties were inflicted on either side, returned. Our casualties, Captain Benson missing, two Other Ranks killed, two wounded.

      War Diaries



      12th August 1918 Quiet day for 9th Irish Fusiliers  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers war diary records: Enemy artillery very quiet, ours active. Usual enemy plane at 0500 and 2030. Night passed quietly.

      War Diaries



      13th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      At 0310 heavy bombardment by our guns in direction of Locre. The day passed as usual. Between 2200 and 2230 enemy put up ten lights bursting into orange rain, but no apparent result or action. Enemy appeared to be working actively in front lines. Our patrols obtained nothing. Our planes very active bombing at night.

      War Diaries



      14th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      At 0130 heavy concentrated bombardment on Bailleul. During day enemy artillery slightly more active. Two of his planes crossed our line at 2030. One returned to his own line, the other surrendered to four of ours, putting out a red flare. He was then escorted back to our own aerodrome.

      Lieutenant Dobbyn MC with two others got into enemy line at 1715 at S.3.c.9.5, where they killed a German and wounded another. Six others fled. Patrol at night under 2nd Lieutenant C.A Ross was fired on by Machine Guns and bombs. Three Other Ranks were wounded. Remainder of night passed as usual.

      2nd Lieutenant H.L Davies joined from transport lines.

      War Diaries



      15th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Enemy artillery fairly active, shelling St Jans Cappel with 5.9s from 0240 to 0300 and S.2.c.20.50 from 1015 to 1045 with 43 shells of 77mm high velocity. Our artillery was active. At night they fired eight rockets over Bailleul. These are like ordinary Verey lights but much stronger light. From experience it is found that enemy sometimes put up red flares bursting into rain when our patrols are out, as if he has discovered them and so gives warning to sentries.

      update 77 mm shells were called whiz-bangs. They travelled faster than sound so you heard the whiz of the passing (hopefully!) shell before the sound of the gun which fired it.

      War Diaries



      16th Aug 1918 Reliefs  9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers report "Day was ordinary. At night the Battalion was relieved by the 2nd Royal Irish Rifles and on relief moved into Brigade reserve at Mont Noir. Relief was completed by 0130. Disposition of Companies: A & D in wood near Woelfhoek, B in Quarry and C in Blue Line."

      War Diary 9th North Irish Horse



      17th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Reference Sheet 28 Kemmel 1/10000. Mont Noir.

      Day was spent in cleaning and inspections. At 2200 two Companies bathed at R.26.d. central. Work was done at tunnel at Battalion Headquarters and salvage at Berthen.

      War Diaries



      18th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mont Noir.

      About 1100 the 9th Division attacked on our right and appeared to get their objectives from observation at Mont Noir.

      Two Companies bathed at night, while one worked. Number of fires were seen behind enemy lines.

      War Diaries



      19th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      At intervals enemy shelled battery positions behind Mont Noir with 5.9 inch calibre guns. At night one and a half Platoons worked from 2100 to midnight on communication trench to left of Battalion Headquarters, two Platoons daily from 0600 to 1200 on Blue Line.

      War Diaries



      20th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Enemy artillery were active, shelling behind Mont Noir with 5.9s and field guns. The usual work was done. At night the two Platoons on left of Blue Line were relieved by two of D Company.

      The Brigade on the left made a slight advance, capturing about 70 prisoners.

      War Diaries



      21st August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The day passed as usual. Our relief of the 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers was cancelled and orders given for an attack to be made by the Brigade. The 15th Royal Irish Rifles (107th Brigade) captured Mural and Wirral Farms, capturing 17 prisoners, at 0030, with 40 (wounded) casualties.

      War Diaries



      22nd August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Preparations are made for attack by us on road from S.3.c to S.8.a. At night the Company in Blue Line was relieved by a Company of the 1st Royal Irish Rifles. At 2330 the front line was bombarded with shells of various calibre and gas. Enemy made an unsuccessful counter-attack on Mural Farm.

      Working parties at night made dumps of material for consolidating purposes in front line.

      War Diaries



      23rd August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Meulehouck.

      All NCOs and men instructed in method of attack and final preparations for same were made. At 2030 Battalion moved into the line on right of left sub-sector (Meulehouck) and cut gaps in wire. The night was very quiet on our front but towards Locre the enemy shelled heavily and appeared to attack about 2300. Our artillery opened fire in reply to SOS.

      War Diaries



      24th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      0230. Enemy re-opened shelling on left for an hour. Our front was very quiet. The morning opened dull and rain fell. Three of our planes flew over the line and one enemy.

      At 0700 the Companies were in position, A on left, B in centre and D on right. Our barrage opened with machine gun fire and trench mortars. After one minute the artillery barrage started and the Companies moved forward to the attack. After a few minutes the enemy put up lights which were replied to by artillery fire. This fell first upon the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers front but then worked across our own, the shelling being particularly heavy in S.2.d central. Some of our own 18-pounder shells fell very short at S.2.d.80.50. Our smoke barrage was not very heavy, especially on the right. The enemy seemed to be taken by surprise and were more inclined to run than fight. The objectives were reached without much opposition. A and D overran their objectives and had to retire to conform with the line. 'A' Company put up white Verey light at 0720 to signal objective reached.

      At 0800 the whole objective was taken and consolidation was carried on until 1000. C Company followed on behind B and D as second wave and mopped up. They also helped in consolidation, after which three Platoons came back to our old front line trench as support Company while the other Platoon stayed with B Company. At 0930 our shelling ceased but the smoke barrage continued until 1000. The enemy artillery quietened down considerably.

      At 1000 contact aeroplane came along while another plane dropped two boxes of Small Arms Ammunition near Soot Farm. There was slight enemy shelling throughout the day on front line area and on the Meulehouck.

      The 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers obtained their objective also and liaison was established along our line and with the 1st Royal Irish Rifles on our right.

      At 1500 our artillery opened fire on S.8.a where the enemy were reported to be massing. Enemy planes came over the line and threw out signal lights over the front line position, when the enemy shelling got heavier.

      At 1830 the enemy put down a smoke barrage behind their front line and in front of Bailleul where they were seen to mass. SOS signalled from front was not seen but one of our planes signalled, upon which our artillery opened fire. The enemy massing had, however, been broken up by Lewis Gun and rifle fire.

      There was slight enemy shelling during night but nothing further happened. Our own artillery put down counter-preparation at 2300. At night the Battalion was relieved by the 2nd Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and moved into Divisional Reserve at Mont des Cats.

      Our total casualties in the attack were four Officers wounded, five Other Ranks killed and one believed killed, 53 Other Ranks wounded. We captured 48 prisoners including ten wounded and estimated to have killed at least 70 including one Officer.

      War Diaries



      25th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mont des Cats.

      The day was spent in cleaning up. Men were paid. Church service was held at 1600. Lieutenant-Colonel P Kelly took over command of Battalion.

      War Diaries



      26th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Companies did training from 0900 to midday and from 1330 to 1430. The "Merry Mauves" gave a performance at 1430 in the open air but it was curtailed owing to rain. 2330. At night C Company went on work party to Blue Line but there were no tools available. Enemy put 60 gas shells into Godewaersvelde.

      The Merry Mauves were the Ulster Divisional Troupe originally called "The Follies" which had been entertaining the troops since early 1916 with very popular concerts.

      War Diaries



      27th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Companies did usual training from 0900 to 1200 and from 1330 to 1430. Performance was given by the Divisional Concert Party at 2.30pm.

      D Company formed the work party at night and were engaged deepening communication trench between Meulehouck and front line. While passing through gas from enemy shells several men were gassed.

      War Diaries



      28th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The usual training was done, and concert performance. No work was done at night.

      War Diaries



      29th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training under Company arrangements in the forenoon and Colonel Kelly addressed the Battalion, congratulating it on the recent success. In the afternoon he addressed the Officers on the training for the coming fortnight when the Division would be out resting.

      At night the Battalion was relieved by the 15th Sherwood Foresters and moved into Corps Reserve at P.20.a.60.27 via Godewaersvelde, Eecke, and crossroads at P.30.a.05.22.

      War Diaries



      30th August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Reference Sheet 27 Belgium and France 1/40000. St Sylvestre Capelle.

      Arrival was complete at 0400. Companies were paid and inspections were held. Equipment was cleaned. Battalion standing-to all day. Battalion move at 1900 by light railway to Godewaersvelde, thence by march route to billets at Mont des Cats.

      Relieve 15th Battalion Sherwood Foresters, relief completed by midnight.

      War Diaries



      31st August 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mont des Cats.

      Orders for Battalion to move in support of 109th Infantry Brigade. Position taken up our front line trenches of the 24th inst. in front of Moulhouck with Battalion Headquarters at Sammy Farm S.2.a.80.80.

      War Diaries



      31st of August 1918 British Take Mount Kemmel  location map

      1st September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Reference Sheet 28 SW 3 Bailleul 1/10000, 28 SW 1/20000. Magilligan Camp, Bailleul. Keersebrom.

      The day was spent in making shelters. At dusk the Battalion relieved the 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers at Cpyrian Farm (S.11.c.7.3). Battalion Headquarters was formed at S.11.c.75.75 on railway.

      War Diaries



      2nd September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Noordhoek.

      At 0600 a move was made to vicinity of Grampus Cottage. Battalion Headquarters was made at S.18.b.70.10. Various gun pits and shell holes being used as shelters. The Officers reconnoitered forward positions. At night the enemy shelled frequently with light field guns and 5.9s. 'A' Company had to move their quarters.

      War Diaries



      3rd September 1918 Daily Activity  At 0700 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers moved to Eastwood Camp (T.14.a.90.60). At 1900 we relieved the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers and 12th Royal Irish Rifles in the line. Battalion Headquarters was formed at T.9.d.90.60. The line taken over ran through St Quentin Cabaret, T.11.b.60.00, L'Alouette with Comapnies A, B, C and D from right to left, this line being about 500 yards in rear of line expected to be taken over.

      War Diaries



      4th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Wulverghem.

      At 0800 Battle Headquarters was formed at T.10.d.05.80 and under an artillery barrage the Battalion, in conjunction with other Battalions on flanks, attacked. Good progress was made. D Company lost direction and got as far as Stinking Farm (U.7.a). Not being protected on flanks the enemy attempted to cut them off and the Company had to retire. Our line was established from road (T.6.d.35.80) where touch was made with the 30th Division, along hedge running south through T.6.d.4.0 to rise in T.12.b then along breastwork trench from T.12.c.50.35, T.18.a.80.90. With the gap between B and A Companies, D Company was put in support along road running south through T.6.c and T.12.a.

      The enemy were not very numerous but their machine gun fire was heavy. The shelling was fairly heavy but was confined to vicinity of St Quentin Cabaret. During the operation Battle Headquarters was moved to T.5.d.80.40.

      Six prisoners were taken, four of whom were sent through 29th Division on the right. Some of our men on the right were cut off and are thought to be made prisoners. The 29th Division took Hill 63 but did not come up far enough to cover our right flank. During the day there was an amount of sniping and machine gun fire and the enemy shelled St Quentin Cabaret and T.12.a with 5.9. In the afternoon he attempted a counter-attack by coming up along railway between B and A Companies, but was driven back by machine gun and rifle fire. At dusk our patrols were pushed forward to get the line behind Bristol Castle but were unable to do so owing to machine gun fire.

      War Diaries



      4th of September 1918 Hill 63 Attacked   location map

      5th Sep 1918 In Action  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers report: "During the night of 4th/5th of August enemy patrols were out and signs of work were heard. A Company of the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers was ordered to fill up gap between B and A Companies. At 0500 under a very light barrage two Platoons of C Company, two of B, and the Company of the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers were to attack the line Hanbury Support down to Irish Farm.

      The 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers were not in position, in time for the attack. B Company were held up by barbed wire and had to retire. C Company got into King Edward Trench, but being unsupported on either flank had to retire to jumping-off trench after holding out for an hour. The enemy artillery did not reply but his machine guns were active.

      The remainder of the day was quiet; occasional bursts of shelling near St Quentin Cabaret and farm at T.12.a.40.40. The Battalion was relieved at night by the 2nd Royal Irish Rifles on the line from road at T.6.d.40.80 along hedge running south through T.6.d.4.0 to river in T.12.b and from T.12.c.50.95, T.18.a.80.90. The Company of 1st Battalion were holding line T.12.b.35.30, T.12.b.20.10 and part of Plum Duff Street.

      Our casualties since coming into line were four Officers wounded Lieutenants Murphy, Bell, Laird and Lyons, twenty Other Ranks killed, twenty Other Ranks missing and 103 Other Ranks wounded. We captured one anti-tank rifle, one light trench mortar, and three machine guns including a Vickers. On relief the Battalion moved to Divisional support at Cyprian Farm. The enemy shelled the roads during relief and the Battalion had to pass through gas shelling."

      War Diary North Irish Horse



      5th of September 1918  Situation Unchanged  location map

      6th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Keersebrom.

      Arrival at billets was completed at 0200. The Strength of Battalion was not reported.The day was spent in cleaning up and re-organisation. The Billets were made more habitable though the day was cold and wet.

      War Diaries



      7th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      A complete change of clothing was made by whole Battalion. Inspections of clothing and equipment were held.

      War Diaries



      8th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Berthen.

      At 1400 move was made to Berthen. Battalion Headquarters and A Company at R.16.d.60.50, B and D at Sutton Farm and C Company in Berthen. Route via S.17.c.75.80, Bailleul, St Jans Cappel, Schaexhen.

      War Diaries



      9th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Day was spent in cleaning up equipment and settling billets. Church of Ireland service was held at 1100. The Corps Commander visited the Companies in the afternoon.

      War Diaries



      10th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion Headquarters moved to Chateau at R.22.d.10.95. Battalion bathed at Piebrouck and trained by Companies.

      War Diaries



      11th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Companies did ordinary training. Remainder of Battalion bathed.

      War Diaries



      12th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Berthen.

      Companies trained from 0800 to 1300 and in the afternoon Officers and NCOs discussed the day's work also the work for the following day. At 2300 the enemy put a few shells near Chateau.

      War Diaries



      13th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training by Companies. Commanding Officer inspected A and C Companies. Rifles were inspected by Armourer Sergeant.

      War Diaries



      14th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training. Lieutenant F.W.Vint and 2nd Lieutenants Richey R.A, Hall F.H, Logan S, Humphreys F.D.R, joined the Battalion for duty.

      War Diaries



      15th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Roman Catholic Church Parade at 1000 and Church of England Parade at 1100.

      War Diaries



      16th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion moved to Asylum in Bailleul at 1854 and were all in billets by 2200. Route by Schaaxen, St Jans Cappell.

      War Diaries



      17th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Bailleul.

      Companies employed in cleaning up billets. Ordinary training also carried out by Companies. Battalion bathed at St Jans Cappell.

      War Diaries



      18th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training by companies.

      Sergeant Ferguson (D Company) awarded Military Medal.

      Signalling competition (C Company winners) and Lewis Gun competition (D Company winners).

      War Diaries



      19th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion moved to Berthen at 1930, route by St Jans Cappel, Shaaxen. Platoon competitions (stretcher bearing and drill). Winners of stretcher bearing A Company, winners of Platoon competition (14 Platoon D Company).

      War Diaries



      20th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Berthen.

      Battalion moved to Terdegem. Route by Mont-des-Cats, Godwaersvelde, Steenvorde. The Brigadier 108th Brigade reviewed Battalion marching through Godwaersvelde. Arrived in billets by 2200.

      War Diaries



      21st September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers left Terdegem. The Battalion moved to Watou at 1916, route by Steenvorde. Arrived in billets at 2130. Joined the Battalion, 2nd Lieutenants Steele J.H, Inglis J.M, Duncan R.S, and Kernaghan J.

      War Diaries



      22nd September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Watou.

      Roman Catholic Church Parade at 1100. Church of England Church Parade with band at 1100. Court Martials of Privates Smith and Crockin promulgated. Football in afternoon.

      War Diaries



      23rd September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training. The Commanding Officer inspected the Battalion in the afternoon.

      War Diaries



      24th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Adjutants' parade at 0830. Training by Companies, six men per Company instructed in German machine-gun by Machine Gun Company Sergeant. Football in afternoon, 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers beat 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers, A Company beat B Company, C Company beat D Company.

      War Diaries



      25th September 1918 Route March  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers undertake Company route marches in morning and were given further instructions on German machine gun.

      2nd Lieutenants H.C Burrows and Bryson awarded Military Cross and Lance Corporal Gracey (D Company) awarded Distinguished Conduct Medal for operations on 4th of September 1918.

      War Diaries



      26th September 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers moved from Watou to Road Camp (St Jan-ter-Beizan) at 2000. Arrived in camp 2130.

      War Diaries



      27th September 1918 Parade  At Road Camp (St Jan-ter-Beizan). 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers hold a Battalion parade at 1000. All surplus kits stored and preparations made for move to Siege Camp (near Vlamertinge).

      War Diaries



      28th Sep 1918 On the Move  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers moved from St Jan-ter-Biezen by rail to Vlamertinge thence by road to Salvation Road, Ypres. Accommodation was very poor.

      War Diaries



      28th Sep 1918 On the Move  location map

      29th Sep 1918 On the Move  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers moved to Rifle Farm on Menin Road at 0400 then to Glen Corse Wood at 0700 and later to Reutel. Position was taken up at J.17.b and d with 12th Royal Irish Rifles on left. At 1900 Battalion moved to west of Becelaere in J.18.a and c. The Commanding Officer received verbal orders at Brigade Headquarters for an advance on Moorseele to begin at dawn. The evening and night were very wet and no rations arrived.

      War Diaries



      29th Sep 1918 On the Move  location map

      30th Sep 1918 Advance Guard  At Becelaere at 5.30am 9th (North Irish Horse) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers, covered by an advance guard, moved forward through J.18.b, K.13 central to K.16.c. Information was received from Brigade to the effect that the 109th Brigade held Terhand and Dadizeele. 9th North Irish Horse Battalion was to pass through 1st Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers at 0700. 12th Royal Irish Rifles to advance on our left, Terhand, Vijfwegen Road the inter-Battalion boundary, the first objective to be a line roughly north and south through Vijfwegen (K.24.a); second objective to be railway running north and south (K.20 and K.26 central); third objective to be Mooreseele. The 29th Division was on our right.

      At 0700 1st Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers were on a line running south-west through K.21.a and c. The 9th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers were facing south with posts along Terhand, Vinwegen Road. The 1st Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers were held up by machine gun fire and had lost touch with the 29th Division.

      A patrol from 9th North Irish Horse Battalion discovered the 1st Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers holding line running south from K.19.a.9.6 through K.19 central, i.e. 2000 yards in rear. B Company 9NIH were sent to move along line of enemy wire through K.21.b, K.22.c and K.29.c to occupy high ground in K.30.a. C Company to move to right rear of B Company to protect flank, to get and keep in touch with 29th Division. A Company to move through K.22 central, K.23 central to K.24.c and to keep touch with 12th Royal Irish Rifles and D Company to move in support along Terhand, Vijfwegen Road.

      B and C Companies 9th North Irish Horse came under machine gun fire almost at once after moving through the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, but A Company met with no opposition until they reached the east side of Methuen Wood, when they came under machine gun fire from houses in K.23.d about 9.30am. About this time the reserve Company came under machine gun fire from a pill box on K.24.b.0.3 and Leadenhall Copse which were cleared in spite of stiff resistance by 1230.

      Twelve prisoners and two machine guns were captured in this operation, and an Officer with twenty Other Ranks of the enemy being killed.

      All further attempts to advance our line beyond the general line of this pill box and Leadenhall Copse were prevented by very heavy machine gun fire from fortified farms on our right flank which was still hanging back.

      At about 1800 when the 2nd Royal Irish Rifles passed through the line to attack, the general line ran K.24.b.0.3, Leadenhall Copse, K.23.d.2.5, K.29.b.2.8.

      9th North Irish Horse Battalion casualties during the day were six Officers and 130 Other Ranks.

      War Diarie North Irish Horse



      30th Sep 1918 In Action  location map

      1st October 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers report "The 2nd Royal Irish Rifles relieved the Battalion in the line south of Hill 41. On relief the Battalion moved into Divisional Reserve in K.14.a. One Officer and fifteen Other Ranks casualties were incurred during relief. Remainder of day spent in checking casualty lists, deficiencies, etc."

      War Diaries



      1st of October 1918  Allies Attack  location map

      1st Oct 1918 Hard Fighting  location map

      2nd October 1918 Daily Activity  On the 2nd and 3rd of October 1918 9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers. remained in K.14.a.

      War Diaries



      2nd Oct 1918 Into Reserve  location map

      3rd Oct 1918 In Reserve  location map

      4th Oct 1918 Relief  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers relieved the 9th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers on Hill 41. Battalion Headquarters at K.18.c.10.60. Strength of 9th Royal Irish: 13 Officers, 390 Other Ranks. The night passed quietly except for harassing fire on roads behind our lines.

      War Diaries



      4th October 1918 Reports  location map

      4th Oct 1918 Reliefs Completed  location map

      4th Oct 1918 Reliefs  location map

      5th Oct 1918 Under Fire  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers report "The enemy put down harassing fire for one hour before dawn and dusk, but barrage line was well behind our line and no casualties were incurred. Northern boundary of Battalion adjusted to L.13.c.25.00."

      War Diaries



      5th Oct 1918 Heavy Shelling  location map

      6th October 1918 Under Shellfire  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers. report "The day passed quietly except for heavy enemy counter preparation in which only 4.2s and 77mm were used. During the night Mansard Farm and copse K.24.b.5.3 were occupied without opposition. Few casualties suffered during the night from machine-gun fire. 2nd Lieutenant Bryson was killed on patrol whilst reconnoitering Goldflake Farm which was found to be occupied in force by the enemy."

      War Diaries



      6th Oct 1918 Line Advanced  location map

      7th Oct 1918 Holding the Line  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers report "Between 7th and 9th of October 1918 Nothing of interest to note. Battalion continued to hold the line. Hostile counter preparation was intense at periods, especially before dawn and at dusk. About twenty casualties suffered. Aerial activity greatly increased on the 9th. Each night all wire behind our line was cut in order to facilitate the advance of attacking troops in the near future.

      War Diaries



      7th Oct 1918 Artillery Active  location map

      8th Oct 1918 Heavy Shelling  location map

      9th Oct 1918 Heavy Shelling  location map

      10th Oct 1918 Shellfire  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers report "Enemy counter preparation at dusk and dawn became very heavy. Our heavies commenced wire cutting in front of Martell Farm. Enemy E.A. very active during the day. Plans for the capture and consolidation of Goldflake Farm were made. Our post at Mansard Farm had been evacuated during the day owing to wire cutting operations and had been reoccupied by the enemy. At dusk a small party rushed the farm under cover of a smoke barrage, capturing one machine-gun. The garrison ran back to their own lines, leaving identifications. A patrol during the night heard enemy digging in the vicinity of Martell Farm."

      War Diaries



      10th Oct 1918 Heavy Shelling  location map

      11th Oct 1918 In Action  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers report from Hill 41. "At dawn a party of thirty Other Ranks under 2nd Lieutenant Darling MC formed up in Twig Farm. At 1000 under cover of a barrage and smoke screen, they rushed Goldflake Farm, capturing fourteen prisoners, three machine-guns, and killing about ten of the enemy. A position about 100 yards south-west of the farm was consolidated.

      The hostile barrage was extremely heavy and we retired for the first time. Our casualties were one killed and two wounded. At about 1750 the enemy counter-attacked heavily on Goldflake, Mansard and Twig Farms. The garrison in Goldflake Farm withdrew after inflicting very heavy casualties on the enemy, who were caught in force on the road. The garrison of Mansard Farm was surrounded and fought their way back. The enemy succeeded in reaching Twig Farm but was held up by a small party which still held out in front of the farm. The enemy was finally cleared from Twig Farm by a counter attack. Mansard and Goldflake Farms remained in his hands.

      Lieutenant-Colonel P.E Kelly was killed during the day by a shell. Our casualties during the day were two Officers and 25 Other Ranks.

      The Battalion was relieved by the 12th Royal Irish Rifles and on relief moved into Brigade reserve in vicinity of Pease Corner."

      War Diaries



      11th Oct 1918 Counter Attack  location map

      12th Oct 1918 Reorganisation  At Dadizeele 9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers spent the day in reserve reorganizing and checking, making up deficiencies. Major R.J.A Tamplin DSO took over command of the Battalion.

      War Diaries



      12th Oct 1918 Farm Captured  location map

      13th Oct 1918 In Reserve  9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers remained in reserve at Dadizeele. At 1700 12th Royal Irish Rifles recaptured Goldflake Farm.

      War Diaries



      13th Oct 1918 Artillery Active  location map

      14th Oct 1918 Attack Made  At 2am 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers moved to area K.15.a, our position in the line being taken over by the 9th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. At 0535 under a very heavy artillery barrage the whole Army attacked, the 107th and 109th Brigades being in the front line, the 108th in support. At 0900 we followed up the advance and took up position in L.20.c.

      War Diaries



      14th of October 1918  A Busy Day  location map

      14th Oct 1918 Attack Made  location map

      15th Oct 1918 Advance  At Moorseele at 9am 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers report "The advance was resumed and we moved to Copper Corner (L.23.a)."

      War Diaries



      15th Oct 1918 Attack Made  location map

      16th Oct 1918 Attack Made  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers. report from Heule, Courtrai. "2 am. Moved to Heule via Moorseele and Gulleghem. Battalion formed up between G.23.d.6.5 and G.24.a.30.00. A and B Companies in front line, A on right, C in support, and D in reserve in readiness for attack. Enemy artillery was very quiet. Patrols of the 9th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers informed us that country was clear of enemy up to River Lys but under artillery barrage we attacked at 0535. The Barrage was poor and short, causing three casualties. No opposition was met with except one machine-gun on railway at H.25.d, which was dealt with. Battalion reached the river, taking up positions commanding the opposite bank. The bridge at H.25.d.3.6 was destroyed and the railway bridge at H.25.a partially so at the opposite bank. C Company formed a defensive flank along railway in G.30.b, and D stayed at G.24.d.

      The houses contained numbers of civilians. Touch was kept with 12th Royal Irish Rifles on our left. At 1400 under cover of smoke screen from rifle smoke bombs and artillery supported by trench mortars a section of Royal Engineers bridged the river and 2nd Lieutenants Steele and Logan with party thirty Other Ranks (D Company) crossed and took up positions at H.25.d.30.50 and on the main street and near the bank to cover the bridge.

      The smoke screen did not last long enough, however, and the bridge being detected, came under machine-gun fire from railway about H.31.a.80.60 and was partly destroyed. The Royal Engineers section had three Officers and about a dozen casualties and were unable to complete the bridge, leaving our men cut off on the opposite side. This party knocked out two machine-guns and captured six prisoners. At 1800 under cover of night it withdrew, coming across by one of the boats. C Company was moved up and relieved B Company. At 1900 Battalion was relieved by the 23rd Middlesex and on relief moved to area Drie-Masten (L.12.c.05.55).

      Total casualties for the day were 2nd Lieutenant Inglis wounded, one Other Ranks killed and 24 Other Ranks wounded."

      War Diaries



      16th Oct 1918 In Action  location map

      17th Oct 1918 Reorganisation  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers. are at Drie Masten. The morning was spent in cleaning, reorganization and inspections

      War Diaries



      17th Oct 1918 At Rest

      18th Oct 1918 Medals Presented  9th (North Irish Horse) Btn, Royal Irish Fusiliers paraded at 10am for presentation of medal ribbons by the Divisional Commander at which he gave a short address.

      War Diaries



      18th Oct 1918 At Rest

      19th Oct 1918 Church Parade  Ordinary inspections and Church Parades in morning for 9th (North Irish Horse) Btn, Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      War Diaries



      19th Oct 1918 At Rest

      20th Oct 1918 Baths  9th (North Irish Horse) Btn, Royal Irish Fusiliers. moved at 08.00 via Drie Masten, Winkle St Eloi, Lendelede to area B.19.c.25.20. In the afternoon Battalion bathes at Lendelede in German baths. Moved at 2230 via Hulste to area B.24.a.

      War Diaries



      20th Oct 1918 Reliefs  location map

      21st Oct 1918 Attack Made  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers. report "At 0730 the 108th Infantry Brigade (1st Royal Irish Fusiliers in front line) attacked in conjunction with 107th Infantry Brigade on right flank and French on left without artillery preparation. 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers advanced to railway line in C.28 and later got to Spitaal due south through C.29.d, I.5.c and d to road at I.6.c.00.70 getting into trench with 107th Infantry Brigade on right. French were held up on left by machine-gun fire from area C.23.a. At 09.00 Battalion moved to C.19.d.92.94 via Step Bridge at C.9.a.20.00. During day pontoon bridge at C.14.c.70.60 was shelled at intervals."

      War Diaries



      21st Oct 1918 Attack Made  location map

      22nd October 1918 Bombardment  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers report "Enemy bombardment on French at 0845 seemed to be counter-preparation. Attack by 107th Infantry Brigade and 9th Division at 0920. Enemy shelled Desselghem fairly heavily."

      War Diaries



      23rd Oct 1918 On the Move  9th (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers report "1st Royal Irish Fusiliers reached Heinweg [Heirweg?] but French were held up on railway. At 1330 Battalion moved to Leemput (I.4.b).

      Strength of Battalion: 15 Officers, 350 Other Ranks."

      War Diaries



      23rd of October 1918 Germans Withdraw  location map

      24th Oct 1916 Reliefs  At 6pm 9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) Royal Irish Fusiliers. relieved 12th Royal Irish Rifles in support and moved to area I.4.b.

      War Diaries



      25th October 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Weather fine but dull towards midday. Battalion in support to 12th Royal Irish Rifles in attack on line J.36.c.0.4, J.36.a.3.2 through G in Bergstraat through N in Ansegham to northern boundary at J.24.c.0.0. Heavy machine-gun opposition was encountered and an advance of about 1,000 yards was made.

      Strength of Battalion going into action: 12 Officers and 276 Other Ranks. Casualties: Lieutenant F.W Vint and 2nd Lieutenant J Darling MC wounded, 7 Other Ranks killed and 37 Other Ranks wounded

      War Diaries



      25th of October 1918 Heavy Fighting All Day  location map

      26th October 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Weather very fine. Positions captured during 25th consolidated. German observation balloon brought down by our aeroplanes near Worteghem.

      War Diaries



      26th of October 1918 Enemy Retiring Slowly  location map

      27th October 1918 Reliefs  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse), Royal Irish Fusiliers. report "Weather fine in morning but dull towards evening. Battalion was relieved in the line by 4th Battalion Royal Sussex Regiment, 34th Division, and proceeded to billets in Hulste."

      9th NIH War Diaries



      28th October 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Hulste.

      Weather fine. Men in good spirits after night's rest, received kindly attention from civil population who cooked the men's food etc.

      War Diaries



      29th October 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Weather fine. Battalion moved at 0830 via Bisseghem to Lawe where they were billetted for the night.

      War Diaries



      30th October 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Lawe.

      Weather continues fine. Service for Roman Catholics held in Lawe church at 0800. Usual inspections and reorganisation carried out during morning. Company Commanders lectured their Companies on 'The Course of the War'.

      War Diaries



      31st October 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Lawe. Weather fine. Usual parades and inspections carried out in morning. In the evening the civil population were invited to a dance held in the School Room Lawe and a pleasant evening was spent.

      During the month the Battalion was engaged in almost continuous fighting. Congratulatory messages etc received.

      War Diaries



      1st November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Lauwe. Reference Sheet 29 Belgium 1/40,000.

      Spell of fine weather continues. Usual parades and inspections carried out in morning. Battalion bathed by Companies at M.21 central. In the evening the civilian population entertained the Battalion, at the School, to a dance. A very pleasant evening was spent. At 2000 the Battalion gave a dinner at which Major R.J Tamplin DSO presided. Among the guests were the Officer Commanding, 12th Royal Irish Rifles, Brigade Major and Staff Captain, 108th Infantry Brigade, and representatives from 1st Battalion, 108th Trench Mortar Battery, etc, etc. A very jolly night was spent notwithstanding the fact that a very strenuous day has preceded it, including a Rugby match between 12th Rifles and 9th Battalion team in which 12th Rifles won by two goals to nil

      War Diaries



      2nd November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Weather fine. Battalion moved at 2100 to billets in Luingne south east of Mouscron. In the afternoon a concert was given by the civil inhabitants to the British soldiers and at 1630 the massed drums of the 1st and 9th Battalions played selections in the Grand Place, Muscron, where a large and interested gathering gave them a rousing reception.

      War Diaries



      3rd November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Luingne. Weather continues fine. Inspection parades carried out and training continued throughout morning

      War Diaries



      4th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Spell of fine weather broken. Rain fell continuously throughout morning. Usual inspection parades and training carried out during day.

      War Diaries



      5th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Little rain in morning. Usual parades and training continued.

      War Diaries



      6th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Wet in morning. Battalion moved at 1530 to billets in Mouscron.

      War Diaries



      7th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron. Rain fell throughout the day. Men of the Battalion innoculated.

      War Diaries



      8th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Dull morning and rain towards midday. Captain R.L Emerson joined for duty from 1st Battalion and assumed the duties of Second-in-Command of the Battalion.

      War Diaries



      9th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Very bright morning. Usual parades carried out in afternoon. 2nd Lieutenant E.W Reynolds MC proceeded to UK prior to taking up appointment in Indian Army.

      War Diaries



      10th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron. Reference Sheet 29 Belgium 1/40,000 and Tournai 1/100,000.

      Fine in morning. Church of England parade service in St Joseph's College Mouscron at 1100 and Roman Catholic parade service in St Charles Convent Mouscron at 1030.

      News of signature of Armistice received during night 10/11 and great jubilations ensued. Fife & Drum Bands played in the streets and flares and rockets of all description illuminated the sky.

      War Diaries



      11th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Fine morning. News of signature of Armistice confirmed. Civilian population of town very enthusiastically applaud us as their deliverers. Usual parades and training carried on throughout day.

      War Diaries



      12th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Fine morning. Battalion paraded at 0930 and marched to Brigade parade ground for inspection by Divisional Commander who expressed his pleasure at the excellent 'turn out' of the Battalion. Captain A.P Faris joined for duty and posted to D Company.

      War Diaries



      13th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Fine morning. Training continued throughout the day. Included in day's programme was firing practice on the 30 meter range. Lieutenant A.L Dobbin MC rejoined from [hospital].

      War Diaries



      14th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Fine morning with touch of frost in the air. Battalion participated in a Brigade exercise in the morning and afternoon was given up to inter-Company football matches etc. Lieutenant K Coomb-Jones joined for duty as Signalling Officer.

      War Diaries



      15th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Fine morning. Training continued. Inter-Company football matches in afternoon.

      War Diaries



      16th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Moescron. Bright morning with touch of frost in the air. Battalion route marched in morning. Afternoon was given up to inter-Company football matches.

      War Diaries



      17th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Bright frosty morning. Special Thanksgiving Service of 2nd Army held in Roubaix attended by four Officers and 65 Other Ranks followed by a march past of troops before Lieutenant-General Sir C Jacob KCB. The usual Church services were held.

      War Diaries



      18th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Brigade Thanksgiving Service held at 1000 at St Joseph's College Mouscron. No further parades.

      War Diaries



      19th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training from 0900 to 1200 when a Battalion parade was held, which included an address from the Commanding Officer and a few exercises with march past. Battalion concert was given at 1800.

      War Diaries



      20th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Route march took place, Battalions going independently. The school arranged by the Battalion Education Committee was opened at 1200 at the civilian school but nobody turned up. Officers Riding School in the afternoon.

      War Diaries



      21st November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training in usual hours. School was held at 1100 when 43 men paraded. The school situated in Convent Schools.

      War Diaries



      22nd November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron. Brigade Inspection was held at T.19.d at 1000. Usual riding class in afternoon. Lieutenant G Robinson MC joins the Battalion.

      War Diaries



      23rd November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Photos of Battalion were taken in Companies but camera was unfortunately broken before Officers group was taken. Remainder of morning was spent in cleaning equipment and billets. Afternoon was devoted to football and riding class.

      War Diaries



      24th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual services were held at Cinema and Roman Catholic Chapel, Luinge.

      War Diaries



      25th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion route marched via Luinge, Aelbeke. Preliminary heats of 'V.C.' and Mule Race for Battalion. Sports were run in the afternoon.

      War Diaries



      26th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion, headed by bands of 1st and 9th, paraded at 0900 and marched to football ground at Tourcoing, where Battalion sports were held. The events included ordinary flat races, tugs-of-war, mule and 'V.C.' races with wrestling on horseback. A most enjoyable day was spent, the proceedings being also enlivened by selections from the Divisional Brass Band and the drolleries of two clowns. A goodly number of the civilian population were in attendance. The Battalion returned to billets by 1700. A concert was held at 1900 when the prizes were distributed. Captain J.E Gibson and Lieutenant F.C Hartness joined Battalion.

      War Diaries



      27th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron. Ordinary training by Companies and riding class. Billeting parties went to Luinge.

      War Diaries



      28th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Luinge.

      Battalion route marched at 0910. Day turned out very wet. In the afternoon a move was made to Luinge. Battalion Headquarters was made at Chateau at S.23.b.3.0. Good billets were obtained.

      War Diaries



      29th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training was held and settling of billets. Cross country run was held in the afternoon. Association football match with 12th Royal Irish Rifles resulted in a draw of two goals each.

      War Diaries



      30th November 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Inspection of billets was held by Commanding Officer. Ordinary parades were held in remainder of forenoon. Rugby match in afternoon against 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers in which we won by six tries to one try.

      War Diaries



      1st December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Luingne. Reference Sheet 1/40,000 Belgium and France 28 & 29. 1000. Photos were taken of Officers and Regimental Football (Association) Team. Usual services were held at Cinema and Mass at Roman Catholic Chapel Luinge. Battalion defeated 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers by six goals to nil in afternoon.

      War Diaries



      2nd December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary Company parades, training and school in morning with a short Battalion route march. Cross country run and practice rugby match in afternoon.

      1730. Lecture by Commanding Officer to Officers, Warrant Officers and Sergeants on the inspection by Divisional Commander to be held in the near future.

      War Diaries



      3rd December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion bathed. Lectures with training indoors owing to wet weather. Association match against 108 Brigade Trench Mortar Battery in which we won by nine goals to one.

      War Diaries



      4th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary Company parades and training with school in morning. Battalion cross country runners trained in afternoon.

      War Diaries



      5th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Luingne.

      Battalion route marched through Mouscron but orders having been received for a Divisional March Past on the morrow the march was curtailed and we returned to billets, the remainder of morning being spent in cleaning equipment and inspections of same. Football match against 12th Royal Irish Rifles in afternoon which resulted in a scoreless draw.

      War Diaries



      6th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion paraded at 0740 and marched to aviation ground at Halluin (R.21 a & b) where Divisional Review and March Past was held. The cookers accompanied Battalion and dinners were eaten at Reckem; arrival back in Luingne at 1515.

      War Diaries



      7th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Commanding Officer inspected billets. Medical and kit inspections were held and men paid. Six Officers and 150 Other Ranks went to Roubaix in afternoon where His Majesty the King paid a visit.

      War Diaries



      8th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church services. In afternoon Rugby team beat the remainder of Brigade by 18 points to 8 points.

      War Diaries



      9th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary Company training with school

      War Diaries



      10th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary Company training with school. In afternoon Brigade cross-country run was held in which 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers won, 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers came second and 12th Royal Irish Rifles third.

      War Diaries



      11th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Day was wet and training was done indoors. Battalion Boxing Tournament was held in Mouscron and was very successful.

      War Diaries



      12th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref sheet 29 & 29 1/40000 Belgium, France. Luingne.

      Wet day. The Divisional parade for inspection by the Corps Commander to be held today was cancelled. Training was done indoors. The first man, a coalminer, was sent home today for demobilisation.

      War Diaries



      13th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Lecture was held at Mouscron at 1030 on 'Reconstruction' and was attended by six Officers and 100 Other Ranks. Ordinary training was done by remainder of Battalion. Four more coalminers were sent away.

      War Diaries



      14th December 1916 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Commanding Officer inspected billets. Medical and kit inspections were also held and men paid. Brigade Boxing Tournament held at Mouscron but none of our entrants were successful.

      War Diaries



      15th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church parades and services at Cinema and Roman Catholic Chapel at Luingne. We beat 108th Brigade football team by 3 to 1.

      War Diaries



      16th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Battalion paraded at 0800 and marched to aviation ground at Halluin (R.21 a & b) where the Division was inspected by the Corps Commander. It was followed by a march past and an advance in review order. The Battalion lunched on the ground and arrived in billets at 1445.

      War Diaries



      17th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Wet day. Training was done indoors and consisted of recreational physical exercises with lectures. In the afternoon C beat A Company by 3 to 1 goals in football.

      War Diaries



      18th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion riding class for Officers formed. It took the form of a lecture on parts of the head and bridle with fitting of same. Ordinary training was done by Battalion. D beat B in football by 5 to nil.

      War Diaries



      19th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Riding class for Officers with practical work was held in morning. Training of Battalion consisted of physical recreational training, ceremonial drill etc. The NCOs were drilled by the Regimental Sergeant Major.

      War Diaries



      20th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual riding class and ordinary training were held. The Divisional Commander visited the Battalion and wished us all a Happy Xmas. The Battalion Rugby team beat the 1st Royal Irish Rifles by 8 points to nil.

      War Diaries



      21st December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual billet inspections were held by the Commanding Officer and also transport were inspected. Riding class was held. In football D Company beat C by 5 goals to 1. C Company held a Whist Drive and B Company a concert.

      War Diaries



      22nd December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church services. Men were paid. In the afternoon a practice Rugby match was held.

      War Diaries



      23rd December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      First hour of parade was spent in physical training. At 11.00 Battalion paraded for route march but it was curtailed owing to inclement weather. Officers' riding class took place.

      War Diaries



      24th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training. There was a Battalion Whist Drive at (1900?).

      War Diaries



      25th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Church parades were held similar to Sunday. Good dinners were provided for the men, the different messes being tastefully decorated. The Commanding Officer visited the men at meals and drank their health. The Sergeants and NCOs had dinner at 1900 and appeared to enjoy it thoroughly. The Officers had a Battalion dinner at 2000 in C Company's Mess, the proceedings being of a merry nature.

      War Diaries



      26th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The day was observed as a holiday, or a day of rest.

      War Diaries



      27th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref sheet 29 & 29 1/40000 Belgium, France. Luingne.

      The weather was bad. Training was done indoors, physical recreation forming part of the programme. Practical lecture on horseshoeing was given to riding class.

      War Diaries



      28th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual inspection of billets by Commanding Officer and medical inspection of the men. D Company held a whist drive.

      War Diaries



      29th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church services.

      War Diaries



      30th December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training consisted of physical recreation, ceremonial drill etc.

      War Diaries



      31st December 1918 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual training in morning. Afternoon observed as a holiday and games were indulged in by Companies.

      War Diaries



      1st January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ref Sheet 1/40000 28-29 Belgium and France. Luingne.

      Service was held for Roman Catholics at 9.00 hours at Convent of St Charles, Luingne. There were no other parades, the day being observed as a holiday.

      War Diaries



      2nd January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion paraded at 0915 in the square and route marched through Petit-Voisinage, Rolleghem, Torpentoek.

      The 107th Infantry Brigade beat the 108th in Rugby by one try to nil.

      War Diaries



      3rd January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion had ordinary training. Fatigue of 30 Other Ranks sent to Brigade for purpose of drawing huts from Roubaix. A practice fire alarm was tried. Regimental censorship of letters discontinued.

      War Diaries



      4th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Inspection of billets by Adjutant. Kits were inspected and men paid.

      War Diaries



      5th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary Church services were held at Mouscron and Luingne.

      War Diaries



      6th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Roman Catholic service at Luingne at 0900 hours. The remainder of Battalion had a cross-country paper chase through Herseaux district in which the Second-in-Command and padre joined.

      War Diaries



      7th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion bathed at Mouscron. Remainder of morning spent in Lewis Gun instruction with physical training. The 108th Brigade beat Divisional Engineers Rugby team by ten point. Six men were sent away for demobilisation. All men (about 40) desirous of re-enlisting were examined by the Medical Officer.

      War Diaries



      8th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training consisted of physical recreation, ceremonial drill and instruction in the Lewis Gun. Lieutenant T Graves and 2nd Lieutenant C.H Steele MC cross-posted to the 1st Battalion.

      War Diaries



      9th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Day was spent in ordinary training. Battalion Headquarters held a Whist Drive for the men.

      War Diaries



      10th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Party of four Officers and 40 Other Ranks were instructed in use of the fire pump at Mouscron Fire Station. Remainder of Battalion had ordinary training. Men had bath today who did not bathe on 7th inst.

      War Diaries



      11th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary weekly billet inspection held by Commanding Officer and Medical Officer with pay parade. Battalion tug-of-war team defeated team of 1st Royal Irish Rifles in Mouscron Square.

      War Diaries



      12th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      A special Church service was held at Roubaix by the Archbishop of Canterbury at which a party of Officers and Other Ranks from the Battalion attended. Ordinary Church services were also held at Mouscron and Luingne.

      War Diaries



      13th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion paraded at 0915 and did a few exercises in ceremonial drill. After an hour's physical training the Battalion witnessed a tug-of-war pull against the 12th Royal Irish Rifles in which our boys were successful. Officers' riding class was held in afternoon.

      War Diaries



      14th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion bathed. C Company had cross-country run. Usual riding class for the Officers was held. One Platoon of B Company was inspected by the Commanding Officer.

      War Diaries



      15th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Morning was spent in ceremonial drill and training under Company arrangements. The Battalion concert troupe 'The Sandbags' gave an entertainment in D Company's Mess at 1930 which was very enjoyable.

      War Diaries



      16th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Battalion attended a lecture on 'Venereal Disease' given by the Assistant Director Medical Services at Mouscron. The Battalion tug-of-war team defeated the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers team at the railway station. The concert troupe gave a performance again at 1930.

      War Diaries



      17th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Lecture by Commanding Officer on Platoon drill. Battalion was drilled by the Regimental Sergeant-Major. Other parades consisted of physical recreation, etc with school.

      War Diaries



      18th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary weekly inspection of billets by Commanding Officer, inspection of men by Commanding Officer and pay. Lecture by Major Lowe DSO on 'Physical Recreation'. Captain F MacClean appointed Demobilisation Officer. The French interpreter, M Valin, leaves Battalion. The tug-of-war team easily defeated an Artillery team in the Divisional tug-of-war competition at Mouscron Square.

      War Diaries



      19th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Captain J Morrow left for demobilisation. Church services were held at Luingne except Presbyterian section at Mouscron at 1000. Lieutenant A Carr takes over duty as Battalion Transport Officer.

      War Diaries



      20th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      First hour of parade was spent in physical drill. At 1100 the Battalion witnessed a game of basket ball between two American teams in Mouscron Square. This was followed by a tug-of-war competition between A and C Companies in which the former was victorious. In the afternoon the same Companies engaged in a Rugby contest in which the same Company won.

      War Diaries



      21st January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      War Diaries



      22nd January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion paraded in morning and had a few exercises in ceremonial drill. Physical training with an hour's compulsory education took up remainder of morning. The Sergeants held a Whist Drive at night to which all Officers were invited. In football the Sergeants were beaten by a team of Officers.

      War Diaries



      23rd January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training was done under Company arrangements and school. The tug-of-war and football teams spent the day in Lille, being conveyed there in a lorry. One Officer and six Other Ranks went as train escort.

      War Diaries



      24th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      First hour was spent in physical training. Battalion paraded afterwards for an hour's practice in ceremonial drill and also had compulsory education. In the afternoon a cross-country competition was held of which A Company were the winner.

      War Diaries



      25th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion paraded at 0930 and marched to aviation ground at Herseaux where with the other Battalions of the Brigade a practice presentation of colours was gone through. Men were paid in afternoon and D Company beat C in football match.

      War Diaries



      26th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church services were held in Mouscron and Luingne.

      War Diaries



      27th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      First hour in morning was spent in physical training. Owing to fall of snow the contemplated route march was cancelled and the men cleared the streets instead. They also had an hour's compulsory education. Commanding Officer gave lecture on 'Demobilisation' to Officers.

      War Diaries



      28th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Battalion paraded at 0930 and marched to Herseaux aviation ground with the other Battalions of the Brigade. The colours which consisted of a silk Union Jack were consecrated and presented to the Battalion by the Corps Commander. The Battalion concert party gave a performance at 1930.

      War Diaries



      28th of January 1919 Colours Presented

      29th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Battalion was employed chiefly in clearing the streets of snow. Men desirous of going before the Divisional Advisory Board were interviewed by the Commanding Officer. The Battalion concert party 'The Sandbags' gave a performance at 1930.

      War Diaries



      30th January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion Headquarters and the concert party went to Lille on two motor lorries where the day was spent. The remainder of Battalion did suitable training. Those seeking information as to their future calling in life were interviewed by the Divisional Advisory Board.

      War Diaries



      31st January 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Ordinary training was done. During the month schools classes have been conducted under 2nd Lieutenant Kemp on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Subjects taught are reading, writing, arithmetic, history and geography; bookkeeping, shorthand and commercial subjects are also taught by 2nd Lieutenant L Lees. Demobilisation has speeded up during the last few days, the total number now away being one Officer 104 Other Ranks.

      War Diaries



      1st February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Luingne.

      His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales visited the Battalion in their billets. Rifles and Lewis Guns were inspected by an Officer from the Army Ordnance Corps. The men also were inspected by the Medical Officer and were afterwards paid.

      War Diaries



      2nd February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church services were held in Luingne and Mouscron.

      War Diaries



      3rd February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training was composed of one hour's physical training, tactical exercise, drill, guard mounting and compulsory education.

      War Diaries



      4th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      The Battalion bathed. The remainder of time the Companies were at the disposal of Company Commanders. Captain P.E Maclean took over duties of Adjutant temporarily.

      War Diaries



      5th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Companies carried out ordinary training. Officers and men wishing information re future careers were interviewed by the Civil Advisory Board at Lille.

      War Diaries



      6th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      First hour was spent in physical training, two hours in cleaning snow from streets and an hour in compulsory education.

      War Diaries



      7th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training consisted of physical recreation, compulsory education with ordinary Company training.

      War Diaries



      8th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Billets were inspected by the Commanding Officer. The usual medical inspection and pay parades were also held.

      War Diaries



      9th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Luingne. Ordinary Church services were held in Mouscron.

      War Diaries



      10th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion was inspected by the Brigade Commander who afterwards visited them in the billets for inspection of kit. Battalion bathed in the afternoon.

      War Diaries



      11th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Battalion was reorganised into two Companies (Nos 1 & 2), No.1 being composed of men for the Post Bellum Army or Army of Occupation, No.2 consisting of all others except those under the control of Transport Officer and Quartermaster.

      update note

      Jus Post Bellum was an international treatise on the transition from conflict to peace laying out rules to minimise periods of occupation and ensure proper treatment of the occupied by the occupiers.

      War Diaries



      12th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Reorganisation of Battalion was continued today.

      War Diaries



      13th February 1919   9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      13th - 14th Feb 1919. Ordinary training was done.

      15th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual weekly inspections were held by the Commanding Officer and Medical Officer and men were paid.

      War Diaries



      15th of February 1919 Boxing Tournament

      16th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church services were held.

      War Diaries



      17th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training consisted of physical recreation.

      War Diaries



      18th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training consisted of physical recreation. At 17.30 hours the Battalion concert party 'The Sandbags' gave a performance in the Convent.

      War Diaries



      19th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      One hour was spent in physical training after which no men were available for further training.

      War Diaries



      20th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual hour for physical training. Battalion bathed.

      War Diaries



      21st February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      A Court of Enquiry was held re deficiency of blankets and oil sheets.

      War Diaries



      22nd February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual inspections were held by Commanding Officer and Medical Officer and men paid. Surplus horses of transport were sent away for dispersal.

      War Diaries



      23rd February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Usual Church services.

      War Diaries



      24th February 1916 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Training was done under Company arrangements. The Officers held a dinner in the Officers' Club in Tourcoing.

      w



      25th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      25th and 26th Feb 1919. Training under Company arrangements.

      War Diaries



      27th Feb 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      First hour was spent in physical training followed by a route march.

      War Diaries



      28th February 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Luingne.

      Training under Company arrangements.

      The total number demobilized up to end of month is eight Officers and 402 Other Ranks.

      The Battalion school has been closed.

      War Diaries



      1st March 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron. Battalion remained at Mouscron.

      War Diaries



      8th March 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron.

      Remaining men for dispersal (20) sent away. Battalion remained at Mouscron until 18th March.

      War Diaries



      19th March 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      1st Royal Irish Fusiliers cadre proceeded home. Surplus personnel attached to this Battalion.

      War Diaries



      20th March 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Two Officers 27 Other Ranks despatched to 5th Royal Irish Regiment on the Rhine.

      War Diaries



      22nd March 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Three Officers 60 Other Ranks despatched to 5th Royal Irish Regiment. One Officer to Concentration Camp for dispersal and 22 Other Ranks.

      War Diaries



      27th March 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Nine Other Ranks to Concentration Camp for dispersal. Two Officers despatched to 5th Royal Irish Regiment.

      War Diaries



      31st March 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Nineteen Other Ranks despatched to 5th Royal Irish Regiment.

      War Diaries



      1st April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Twenty-three Other Ranks despatched to 5th Royal Irish Regiment.

      War Diaries



      3rd April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      One Officer despatched to 5th Royal Irish Regiment.

      War Diaries



      4th April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Two Officers to Concentration Camp for dispersal.

      War Diaries



      7th April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Twelve Other Ranks to 5th Royal Irish Regiment.

      War Diaries



      9th April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron. One Royal Army Medical Corps Officer (attached) to Concentration Camp for dispersal.

      War Diaries



      11th April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      One Officer to 5th Royal Irish Regiment.

      War Diaries



      14th April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Two Other Ranks to Concentration Camp for dispersal.

      War Diaries



      17th April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Eight Other Ranks to 5th Royal Irish Regiment. One Officer Royal Irish Rifles attached to Battalion.

      War Diaries



      19th April 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Five Other Ranks to Concentration Camp for dispersal. Two Officers to Concentration Camp for dispersal. Remained at Mouscron pending dispersal.

      War Diaries



      1st May 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Remained at Mouscron pending dispersal.

      War Diaries



      9th May 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      One Officer and 10 Other Ranks to Concentration Camp for dispersal.

      War Diaries



      19th May 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      One Other Rank to Concentration Camp for dispersal.

      War Diaries



      22nd May 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Four Other Ranks to 5th Royal Irish Regiment.

      War Diaries



      9th June 1919 Daily Activity  9th Btn. (North Irish Horse) the Royal Irish Fusiliers.

      Mouscron. Three Officers and 23 Other Ranks (cadre) to Concentration Camp for dispersal.

      Of the party for dispersal on this date, one Officer and five Other Ranks are detailed as Colour Guard, charged with handing over King's Colour to the authorities of Armagh Cathedral.

      An Equipment Guard of two Officers and twelve Other Ranks remain pending orders for shipment of Battalion equipment to UK.

      This is the final entry in the War Diary for the Battalion.

      War Diaries



      If you can provide any additional information, please add it here.





Want to know more about 9th (County Armagh) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers ?


There are:5810 items tagged 9th (County Armagh) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers available in our Library

  These include information on officers, regimental histories, letters, diary entries, personal accounts and information about actions during the Great War.


Those known to have served with

9th (County Armagh) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers

during the Great War 1914-1918.

  • Adams Robert Henry. Pte.
  • Barnes Joseph. Pte. (d.16th Aug 1917)
  • Batterbee Charles. Pte. (d.9th Jun 1917)
  • Behan Patrick. Pte. (d.9th Apr 1918)
  • Bloomfield Michael. Pte. (d.3rd Oct 1918)
  • Cather VC. Geoffrey St George Shillington. T/Lt.
  • Cather VC. Geoffrey St. George Shillington. Lt. (d.2nd July 1916)
  • Crilly MM. John. Pte.
  • Culley William Samuel. Pte. (d.1st Jul 1916)
  • Cully William Samuel. Pte. (d.1st Jul 1916)
  • Dalzell Hugh. Pte. (d.16th Aug 1917)
  • Davis Vivian Alfred. Lt. (d.4th Sep 1918)
  • Donnery Francis. Pte. (d.16th August 1917)
  • Farr Thomas. Pte. (d.1st July 1916)
  • Greer William Andrew. Pte. (d.17th Aug 1917)
  • Hague Isaac. L/Cpl. (d.13 August 1917)
  • Inglis James Malcolm. 2nd Lt. (d.26th Oct 1918)
  • McAdam Wilson. Sgt.
  • McGivern William. Pte. (d.1st Jul 1916)
  • Medlow David. Pte.
  • Shiels Samuel. Pte. (d.10th Oct 1918)
  • Skelton Francis Thomas. Pte. (d.8th June 1916)

All names on this list have been submitted by relatives, friends, neighbours and others who wish to remember them, if you have any names to add or any recollections or photos of those listed, please Add a Name to this List

Records of 9th (County Armagh) Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers from other sources.


  • The Wartime Memories Project is the original WW1 and WW2 commemoration website.

  • 1st of September 2023 marks 24 years since the launch of the Wartime Memories Project. Thanks to everyone who has supported us over this time.

Want to find out more about your relative's service? Want to know what life was like during the Great War? Our Library contains many many diary entries, personal letters and other documents, most transcribed into plain text.



Looking for help with Family History Research?   

Please see Family History FAQ's

Please note: We are unable to provide individual research.

Can you help?

The free to access section of The Wartime Memories Project website is run by volunteers and funded by donations from our visitors.

If the information here has been helpful or you have enjoyed reaching the stories please conside making a donation, no matter how small, would be much appreciated, annually we need to raise enough funds to pay for our web hosting or this site will vanish from the web.

If you enjoy this site please consider making a donation.


Announcements

  • 22nd April 2024

        Please note we currently have a massive backlog of submitted material, our volunteers are working through this as quickly as possible and all names, stories and photos will be added to the site. If you have already submitted a story to the site and your UID reference number is higher than 263973 your submission is still in the queue, please do not resubmit.

      Wanted: Digital copies of Group photographs, Scrapbooks, Autograph books, photo albums, newspaper clippings, letters, postcards and ephemera relating to the Great War. If you have any unwanted photographs, documents or items from the First or Second World War, please do not destroy them. The Wartime Memories Project will give them a good home and ensure that they are used for educational purposes. Please get in touch for the postal address, do not sent them to our PO Box as packages are not accepted.





      We are now on Facebook. Like this page to receive our updates, add a comment or ask a question.

      If you have a general question please post it on our Facebook page.


      World War 1 One ww1 wwII greatwar great battalion regiment artillery
      Did you know? We also have a section on World War Two. and a Timecapsule to preserve stories from other conflicts for future generations.








  Lt. Geoffrey St. George Shillington Cather VC. Adjt. 9th Bn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.2nd July 1916)

Geoffrey Cather was killed in action on the 2nd July 1916, aged 25 and is commemorated on The Thiepval Memorial in France. He was the son of the late Mr. R. G. Cather and of Mrs. M. M. Cather, of Limpsfield, Surrey.

An extract from The London Gazette, dated 8th Sept., 1916, records the following: "For most conspicuous bravery. From 7 p.m. till midnight he searched 'No Man's Land', and brought in three wounded men. Next morning at 8 a.m. he continued his search, brought in another wounded man, and gave water to others, arranging for their rescue later. Finally, at 10.30 a.m., he took out water to another man, and was proceeding further on when he was himself killed. All this was carried out in full view of the enemy, and under direct machine gun fire and intermittent artillery fire. He set a splendid example of courage and self sacrifice".

s flynn






  Pte. William Samuel Culley C Coy., 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.1st Jul 1916)

William Culley served with C Coy., 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers He is buried in the Ancre British Cemetery in Beaumont-Hamel, France.

Mark Gilmore






  Pte. William Samuel Cully 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.1st Jul 1916)

My great grandfather William Cullywas the son of James and Ann Jane Cully (nee Clayton) and husband of Mary Cully (nee Mines), of Tullyallen, Mountnorris, County Armagh. He was born Bessbrook, County Armagh on the 24th of May 1874 which would make him 42 years of age when he was killed. Private Cully is buried in Ancre British Cemetery, France.

William signed up to join the 1st World War, volunteered as there was no conscription in Ireland, in fact he lied about his age, said he was 36 and not 41. The conclusion we have come to is that things were hard in Ireland at the time, a couple of poor harvests and as a farm labourer he would have been desperate for money with 7 children (Billy, Hannah Jane, Robert (my Grandfather), Sarah, Sam, Hughie and Geordie).

He headed off and as part of the 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers, 108th Brigade, 36th (Ulster) Division, and was killed in action on the first day of the Somme at Ancre. The Ulster men breached four defensive lines of German trenches that morning but had to retreat due to being let down by their flanks. The troops were told that this would be an easy fight as the Germans had little to no ammunition. This was not the case and William fell along with 60,000 others on that day. The battle at Ancre was over by 8am so he was only on the field for a short time.

Private Cully was entitled to the 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medal. His last name was recorded incorrectly as Culley on all of his Military records.

<p>Notice of death

William Garry Cully






  Pte. Hugh Dalzell 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.16th Aug 1917)

Pte Hugh Dalzell, 9th Bn Royal Irish Fusiliers was my great great uncle and I am keen to make sure his service is recorded. He joined the Army on 17th of March 1916 and arrived in France on 30th of June 1916 and was posted to D Coy 9th Btn, Royal Irish Fusiliers. He was killed in action on 16th of August 1917 during the 3rd Battle of Langemark. Gone but not forgotten - Faugh a Ballagh!

JB






  Pte. Francis Thomas Skelton 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.8th June 1916)

Private Skelton is buried in the North-West part of the Clones (St. Tighernach) Church of Ireland Churchyard in Co. Monaghan, Ireland.

S Flynn






  Pte. William McGivern 9th Battalion (d.1st Jul 1916)

William McGivern, 9th Royal Irish Fusiliers was killed on the 1st of July 1916 and is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing.

Bill Wallker






  Pte. Samuel Shiels 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.10th Oct 1918)

Samuel Shiels was the Son of Andrew Shiels, of 10 Glenfield St., Dennistoun, Glasgow. He was aged 26 when he died and is in the Ballybay First Presbyterian Churchyard in Co. Monaghan, Ireland.

s flynn






  Pte. Francis Donnery 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.16th August 1917)

Francis Donnery was my grandfather's cousin. I found out through researching the family tree that he was killed at Langemarck and is buried in Tyne Cot cemetery.







  Lt. Vivian Alfred Davis 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.4th Sep 1918)

Vivian Davis was killed in action on the 4th of September 1918. He was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert E. Davis of 17 Oaklands Park, Ballsbridge, Co. Dublin.

s flynn






  2nd Lt. James Malcolm Inglis 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.26th Oct 1918)

James Inglis died in France of wounds received in action at Courtrai, Belgium on the 26th of October, 1918 aged 19 years & 3 months. He is remembered on the Inglis Memorial in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh.

s flynn






  Pte. David Medlow 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers

David Medlow was born on the 10th of March 1894. Originally from Kernan, Portadown and a member of Edenderry LOL 322, he enlisted on the 11th of August 1914. He was wounded on the 16th of August 1917 during the first day of the Battle of Langemarck, the second Allied general attack of the Third Battle of Ypres. After a long period of convalescence in hospital he was discharged due to wounds on 18th of June 1918.

Jon Medlow






  L/Cpl. Isaac Hague 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.13 August 1917)

Isaac Hague joined the Sherwood Foresters in 1911/12. Before that he worked as a carriage hand for Swift & Wass Ltd, lace making machinery manufacturers at the Victoria Works in Basford.

He served in India with the Sherwood Foresters for almost year between 1913 and 1914 and in August 1916 he transfered to the Irish Fusiliers. He was posted to France in 1914 and again in 1916. He was (slightly) wounded in action in 1915. He was made a Lance Corporal in October 1916. He died of wounds on August 13th 1917 and he is buried in the Brandhoek Military Cemetry near Ypres in Belgium.

Isaac's parents were Benjamin and Laura Hague and in 1915 he married Jennie Francis.







  Pte. Michael Bloomfield 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.3rd Oct 1918)

Michael Bloomfield was the son of Mrs. K. Bloomfield, of 3, Henrietta Lane, Dublin. He had formerly served with the Royal Irish Rifles. He was killed in action in Flanders and buried in Dadizeele New British Cemetery, Moorslede.

s flynn






  Pte. Patrick Behan 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.9th Apr 1918)

Patrick Behan was killled in action in Flanders.

S Flynn






  Pte. Joseph Barnes 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.16th Aug 1917)

Joseph Barnes served with the 9th Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers and was killed in action in Flanders, age 27, on the 16th August 1917. Joseph was the son of Patrick and Margaret Barnes, of 26, Lower Gloucester Street, Dublin. He is remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial.

S Flynn






  Pte. Charles Batterbee 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers (d.9th Jun 1917)

Charles Batterbee's Medal Index Card

Charles Batterbee served with the 9th Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers. (Formerly 6777 London Regiment) He was 38 years old when he died on 9th June 1917. He was born in Jarrow in 1878 (recorded as Batterby) Son of John and Ann Batterbee (nee Barins) native of Jarrow. On the 1911 census he is listed as Charles Batterbee age 32 General Labourer in Manure Factory is with his widowed father John and family at 7 Montague Street, Canning Town, East Essex. He enlisted in Canning Town East Essex. Charles is remembered on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

Vin Mullen






  Sgt. Wilson McAdam 9th Btn. Royal Irish Fusiliers

My great Uncle, Wilson McAdam, Sergeant 14553 (also spelled McCadam) was born in 1891 in Portadown he lived at Tandragee, County Armagh and was a Member of Clonmakate Company, Armagh Regiment, Ulster Volunteer Force. Member of Loyal Orange Lodge 110. He worked in the linen trade at Thomas Sinton’s mill. He enlisted September 1914 and went to France with 36th (Ulster) Division in October 1915. ‘C’ Company. He was evacuated sick to hospital in England in mid-1916. He may have rejoined his company in France. He did not take part in the attack at Hamel on 1 July 1916. He transferred to the Class Z Reserve 6 March 1919. 1914-15 Star. His discharge date is common for those who saw through the War and left Mouscron (where the Battalion spent Christmas 1918) in February 1919.

On Saturday 8 August 1914 the Ulster Volunteer Force held a shooting competition at the rifle range in Tandragee demesne with teams from the Clare, Laurelvale, Tandragee and Scarva Companies participating. Wilson McAdam was a member of the winning team from the Tandragee Company and also won the medal for the overall highest individual score. He served in France from 4 October 1915. On the 15th August 1914 the Tandragee Company held a shooting match at the rifle range in the demesne. Nine teams took part including 1 from Clare, 2 from Laurelvale, 4 from Tandragee and 2 from Scarva, with each team consisting of 8 men. Medals were awarded for the best team score, the runners up and the highest individual score. A team from Tandragee won the event, with the individual scores as follows – Wilson McAdam 60; D McCullough 49; George Jackson 46; W J Meredith 46; A Vennard 41; G Stronge 40; W Gamble 39; and W J Teggart 21. Wilson McAdam (Tandragee) won the highest overall individual score with 60 out of 70; W J Newman (Tandragee) was second on 57; and W Lunn (Scarva) third on 56. Mr T H White, Orangehill, presented the prizes.

Helene Kennedy






Recomended Reading.

Available at discounted prices.









Links


    Suggest a link

















    The free section of The Wartime Memories Project is run by volunteers.

    This website is paid for out of our own pockets, library subscriptions and from donations made by visitors. The popularity of the site means that it is far exceeding available resources and we currently have a huge backlog of submissions.

    If you are enjoying the site, please consider making a donation, however small to help with the costs of keeping the site running.


    Hosted by:

    The Wartime Memories Project Website

    is archived for preservation by the British Library





    Copyright MCMXCIX - MMXXIV
    - All Rights Reserved -

    We do not permit the use of any content from this website for the training of LLMs or for use in Generative AI, it also may not be scraped for the purpose of creating other websites.