Map of Attack and Memorial Area

Story of the Royal Warwick's Book Extract

Extract from page 79 of “The Story of the Royal Warwickshire by Charles Lethbridge Kingsford”

December 18, when they were serving in the trenches, they had orders to capture the German position at Bois Grenier before Le Maisnil. Immediately the attack began the enemy opened fire with rifles and machine guns. Still the battalion advanced with great steadiness, and some men got within a few yards of the enemy trenches. But the casualties were so heavy that the attack failed in its objective, and what remained of the battalion was forced to return to its own lines. For the second time it had lost its Commanding Officer. Lieut-Colonel Brewis and eight other officers were killed, whilst two were wounded and one was missing. The total casualties of the other ranks were nearly 800.

General Capper in a Divisional Order congratulated the battalion on their “gallant effort, which though unsuccessful had been of great use and service to the general plans of the Allied Army”.

Curdworth Parish Newletter Extract

From the Parish Magazines of Curdworth & Minworth 1914-1917

Ralph Burden, R.I.P. - He came to us as a stranger two years ago, but we knew him as a member of our Men's Club, so far as he could be known at all. He was a reserved man, and never inclined to make confidences. What we did was all to the good. "One of the best I ever had work for me" says Mr. Gibbs, "As good as gold" says Mr. Gibbs. War was declated on August 4th and early on August 6th Ralph Burden had left Curdworth for ever. He was the first to answer the call "Your King and Country need you". Later on he sent his photograph with the words "I am sending you this which I thought you would like is case.............."

He has answered another call, still more imperative. The action in which he lost his life on December 18, is described as "a gallant attempt to take the German trenches". The order published by General Capper is as follows:

"I am directed by the Corps Commander to tell you that he has received a report of the gallant attempt made by the 2nd Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment to take the enemy's trenches last night. In face of fierce fire, the service was most difficult, and the long list of casualties which the battalion suffered is evidence of their determined attempt to get in.

The Corps Commander much regrets the loss of so many gallant officers and men, who have died in so gallant an effort. The attempt although unsuccessful has been of great use and service in the general plans of the Allied Army”.