Military History

Ernest was listed as missing, presumed killed on 30 Nov 1917 after the battalion was attacked by the Germans in their trenches near Gouzeaucourt. The Battalion war diary entry for that day is transcribed below. It was later accepted that Ernest was killed in action on that day.

In the Field - Nov 30: The early morning was very quiet, there was a little shelling but not near our trenches. About 7.15am Bn HQ was shelled heavily but not much notice was taken as the outgoing Battn had reported that this was to be expected at frequent intervals. As the shelling continued Coys were rung up and reported OK. Shortly after this the wires were cut and SOS was then reported on the right, either by the sentry or by wire and the Coys and Bn HQ stood to arms.

About 8 to 8.15am it was reported that the enemy was attacking, the enemy apparently broke through the next line but one on our right and moved up the line from the right.  The enemy were seen advancing from three directions from the front from the left and from the right in rear of  A Coy which was completely cut off no further news was heard from them.

C Coy held on for some time and then withdrew into the main line of resistance in accordance with their orders. During the withdrawal of C Coy they were ? Mixed up with the enemy and as they retired onto the main line they rather split the field of fire. The enemy advanced on the main line from front Ali and from both flanks and despite being met with heavy Lewis Gun and rifle fire they overwhelmed the defence.

The enemy was greatly assisted by large numbers of aeroplanes flying very low and using machine gunfire. These planes were evidently armoured as they were heavily shot at without apparent effect. They kept about 200 yards ahead of the enemy and acted as a sort of advanced guard. Their fire was very effective many casualties being caused by them.

During this time Bttn HQ Had manned the gun pits and were firing hard. When the enemy had taken the main line Battn HQ were ordered to withdraw to the Support ? Ravine (M2A). A few reached the Ravine but their was no sign of the Support Bttn and as there were too few men to hold up the enemy the withdrawal was continued under a certain amount of covering fire until the trench near Bde HQ was reached (RIOD). There all armed men were checked and lined up, the Reserve Battalion came up and reinforced this line which was held and the enemy’s advance was stopped.