Ypres, October 1914

October 17th–18th
We traveled by train through Amiens, Boulogne, Calais, and detrained at Hazebrouck, which was 25 miles from the Belgium border. This is where we bivouacked for the night.

October 19th
After marching to Cassel we had a day’s rest. During the
march my charger had a severe choke. He came down with me on him; but I managed to help him up. When we arrived in Cassel we were greatly elated to be in a town and feasted ourselves on cakes and sweets. After the hardships of the previous weeks, this was a grand change indeed.

During the battle of Anise the French and Germany armies tried to outflank each other and in the process they were leapfrogging west towards the French port cities. Churchill pulled the BEF out of the Battle of Anise in order to stop the Germans before they reached their goal. 

Fred road along with his battery to the Belgian city of Poperinghe where he wrote the following journal entry.


October 20th
The battery marched to the city of Poperinghe and once again we were in Belgium. It was an awful sight to see all of the refugees streaming into Poperinghe from the outlying towns and villages; they were trying to keep ahead of the rapidly advancing enemy. I happened to stop to pat a pretty little child on her head and gave her some biscuits that I had in my pocket. The poor little mite was simply starving. Within a minute I was surrounded by starving children. I emptied my pockets and haversack. Then, with a couple of chums, we collected all the biscuits and Bully Beef in the battery and gave them to the women and children.

It was pitiful to see the children struggling to get at us. It was even a harder job to keep away the hungry Belgian men because we didn’t have anything for them. We had given the women and kiddies everything we had in the food line. That night we bivouacked outside the town.



Early the next morning the Division marched to the villiage of Langemarke and as they approached it they could hear that it was being heavly shelled. In order for the battery to engage, they required a forward observation post so Fred and a couple of other field telephone operators set out to locate a spot. 


October 21st
Before dawn we marched towards the village of Langemarke. As we approached the village it was being heavily shelled. I, and a couple of others, reconnoitered the area for some time, and failed to find a good position for an observation post. 

Finally two gun sections took up positions in the rear of the church while I went with the remaining section through the village. As we passed through a square, we saw lots of wounded French soldiers in the open by the churchyard.

My section dropped into action by the railway, and again, we attempted to find an observation station. I stopped by a deserted powerhouse that I thought could be used. 

Later I, along with the remaining battery staff, were ordered to regain the two sections at the rear of the church. 


As we went towards the railway crossing, a shell burst in the center of the road, about 30 or 40 yards ahead of us. This all occurred as we galloped past the church wall. Fortunately the
shrapnel struck the wall, otherwise it would have been right among us.

I galloped past the spot where I had seen the wounded Frenchmen just two hours before. The whole lot was dead and in pieces. It was a horrible sight.


Initially they Germans struck the Belgian defenses on the Yser River near Nieuport. The Belgian forces were unable to hold their positions against the enemy therefore to prevent the Germans from bypassing Ypres, the Belgians opened the sluice gates and flooded the surrounding land. 

The Germans were compelled to reconsider their plans, opting to launch a series of attacks against the city of Ypres.


The British dug trench defensive positions around Ypres in the shape of a small salient and they held a thirty-five-mile-long line in the center of the bulge, while the French Army protected the British flank south of the city.

The stage was set for what would be one of the most horrific battles of the war, The Battle of Ypres. 

Train Ride to The Frontier

As indicated by my August 20 entry, we boarded a train that would transport us to an unknown destination. I was gazing out the train’s window as it passed through Amiens and other towns along the way. I noticed that whenever the train stopped at a station, the grateful inhabitants of the town would be waiting to display appreciation for our arrival. Every station seemed to be crowded with people who showered flowers, chocolate, smokes, and drinks of all kinds on the troops and many Tommies got their first kiss from a French lady.


August 21st
Everywhere the French people gave the troops a hearty welcome,
and then it occurred to me that just perhaps the people
may have realized more than us what events were impending.

While halted outside Maubeuge, the French caught a woman
with two pigeons concealed in her basket; one she had already
dispatched without ceremony. The French shot her in a
field just on our left.

While the train rambled on, George Bramwell, Pudgie Taylor, Bobby Glue and I were absorbing the impact of watching the execution, making us aware of the realities of war. Our conversation turned to the possibility of fighting the Germans in the near future. Each of us wondered what it would be like to be in a battle where shells were exploding and the sounds of bullets whistling through the air. During a somber moment, we each voiced our concerns about death. Our concerns were focused on our loved ones back home and how they would take the news.

Pudgie said that the army sent the family a telegram offering their condolences. We all agreed that this method lacked the personal touch a family would require upon hearing of a loved one's death. It was at this moment that George said that the four of us should make a promise. Commit to each other, that should any of us survive the war, the survivor(s) would call on the families of the fallen and tell them of  their death. Bobby, Pudgie and I looked at George and thought of the merit of his idea. In a show of solidarity we shook hands thus sealing our commitment. I didn't know then that this would haunt me the rest of my life.

Traveling To The Belgian Frontier

As indicated by my August 20 entry, we boarded a train that would transport us to an unknown destination. I was gazing out the train’s window as it passed through Amiens and other towns along the way. I noticed that whenever the train stopped at a station, the grateful inhabitants of the town would be waiting to display appreciation for our arrival. Every station seemed to be crowded with people who showered flowers, chocolate, smokes, and drinks of all kinds on the troops and many Tommies got their first kiss from a French lady.


August 21st
Everywhere the French people gave the troops a hearty welcome,
and then it occurred to me that just perhaps the people
may have realized more than us what events were impending.

While halted outside Maubeuge, the French caught a woman
with two pigeons concealed in her basket; one she had already
dispatched without ceremony. The French shot her in a
field just on our left.

While the train rambled on, George Bramwell, Pudgie Taylor, Bobby Glue and I were absorbing the impact of watching the execution, making us aware of the realities of war. Our conversation turned to the possibility of fighting the Germans in the near future. Each of us wondered what it would be like to be in a battle where shells were exploding and the sounds of bullets whistling through the air. During a somber moment, we each voiced our concerns about death. Our concerns were focused on our loved ones back home and how they would take the news.

Pudgie said that the army sent the family a telegram offering their condolences. We all agreed that this method lacked the personal touch a family would require upon hearing of a loved one's death. It was at this moment that George said that the four of us should make a promise. Commit to each other, that should any of us survive the war, the survivor(s) would call on the families of the fallen and tell them of  their death. Bobby, Pudgie and I looked at George and thought of the merit of his idea. In a show of solidarity we shook hands thus sealing our commitment. I didn't know then that this would haunt me the rest of my life.

Next Stop France

August 5th
I did not dwell on the thoughts of leaving my dear little wife, my mother, and baby — the journey up north was one of enthusiasm, for the train was packed with reservists, rejoining the Colours, as I. All seemed absolutely mad to go and obliterate Germany!

I couldn't partake in the excitement exhibited by my compatriots, for I was consumed in thought of what will become of my family; what fate awaited me!

The train arrived at its destination and the process of assemulation into war began.

August 6–7th

Upon arriving I had to draw a kit from supply and then on to the doctor in order to pass my physical. Upon doing so, I was detailed to join the 39th Battery, assigned to Surplus Details, as acting Quarter Master Sergeant at Borden Camp. I was very disappointed, for this meant that I should not go to the front yet.
Later I was informed that I would be part of the nucleus of a Reserve Brigade that was being formed at Shorncliffe. I ar- rived at Borden and ran into my old commanding officer who seemed to feel great satisfaction in seeing me.
I immediately volunteered for active service but had a little trouble getting past the red tape, until seeking help from Brigadier Clark. It wasn’t long after that I was assigned to the First Corps, 43rd Brigade, First Division at Deepcut.

I was to report for duty on the 14th of August. After reporting in, I was so glad to meet a couple of chums that were also assigned to the 40th Battery RFA.

We embarked at Southampton on the SS City of Chester. It was an uneventful trip over the channel to where we disembarked the next morning at Boulogne, France. I knew well that I was in France, from the grand reception we received.


August 17–19th
In rest camp outside Boulogne we thought it very tame for Active Service. We were anxious to test our skills and engage the Germans.

Our wait wasn't long. We marched to the train station where we boarded for an unknown destination.

Help

I would really appreciate it if those that find my blog interesting would go to their local library and request my book. It is very hard for new authors to find a publisher and if they, like I did, self-publish, book outlets, such as libraries, bookstores and other sources of distribution turn their backs on the diamonds in the rough.

Therefore I must call on my fellow compatriots to help me tell my grandfather's story by asking libraries and bookstores if they carry "The Great Promise" by Frederick L Coxen

ISBN:  1463702930
Published by CreateSpace

Thank you

Joining The RFA 1905

I was born in Twickenham in 1888 to Richard Enos Coxen and his wife Alice. My father was a sailmaker by   trade so he needed to be close to the Thames in order to service the ships. Later we moved to Battersea where our family expanded to seven children.

In order to continue my education I decided to join the Royal Field Artillery in 1905 and in 1907 I received both my third and second class certificate of education in composition. At that time I was serving in the 55th Battery

By 1909 I held the rand of Bombardier and was a signalman. I was in Ireland  in the summer of 1909 training on how to use the new field telephones when my picture was taken.

My plan was to obtain an education and training so that I could leave the regular service and join the RFA reserves. By 1911 I had served the required six years of regular service but before I left, I received my Assistant Instructor's Certificate for Signalling.

With more time on my hands I joined the Electrician's Union and became an electrician. I was living with my family at 28 Berkley Street and meet the love of my life who happened to live at 32 Berkley Street. In 1912 we were married in the Perish Church in the Perish of St Mary Lambeth, London.

In 1913 my wife and I were blessed with a baby girl we named Doris and we moved to 93 Rectory Lane, Tooting Bec Commons.

The news papers were filled with talk of war in Europe and after the Arch Duke was assassinated it seemed certain that there would be war between Germany and France. Parliament and the people were against going to war to support France but when Germany invaded Belgium we were all in for supporting a neutral country, besides, if France lost the war German forces would occupy the French ports along the English Channel.

We I came home from work on August 4th my dear wife told me that Parliament declared "General Mobilization", which meant that we were at war with Germany.

JOURNAL ENTRY

August 4th
“General Mobilization”, will it be declared? This was the thought with me all day, after my dear wife first gave me the news. But then I could not believe it, until we walked to the post office and saw the official declaration.Then I knew I would have to leave my home and dear ones — for “Where”, that was my one great thought. Until then I never realized what it all meant.
With the conflicting thoughts of my dear ones, along with fascination that I was going to participate in a “real scrap”, my mind was in a real whirl, and was so until I left home the next day for Newcastle on the Tyne. And then — “Where?”
On August 5th I was to report for duty, so my wife and dear baby daughter walked with me to the train station where I was to catch the train to Newcastle.  
 

I can't believe it

I'm giving away access to my book to those that are interested and very few have responded. Let me refresh everyone's memory.

Follow this link in order download the PDF file. The Great Promise

Free Down Load of The Great Promise

I decided to offer free downloads of THE GREAT PROMISE to the first 800 people. The only thing I request is that those that download the book please review it and post their review on their facebook page, tweeter, or on this blog site under comments. If you really like it, please ask your librarian to order it. Thank you and enjoy.

 To down load the book go to my web site  wwone100yearanniversary.com and click on the "released book" tab on the menu. Find the PDF button and click on it and save it to your computer.

Enjoy.

Interesting Career

I've been trying to piece together my grandfather's military career and it has turned up some interesting things. He served in the Royal Field Artillery from 1905 to 1919 but his duties varied.

• From Aug 1914 to 1915 he served the 40th battery, 43rd Brigade.
• He received a field commission to 2nd Lt
• In May 1916 he was sent to review the AA batteries around Liverpool and remained with them until Nov 1916. During this time he acted as Adjutant of the defense batteries.
• With AA experience he was called back to the RFA and sent to Paris to command an AA battery
• In early 1918 he was loaned to the newly formed Royal Air Force to manage payroll. While with the RAF he wore a RAF uniform and was trained to fly. He was also promoted to Capt. The RFA requested his return but the RAF said that he was too important in his current position so they refused. 
• His career ended in 1919 when the RAF was disbanded. 
• Attached are some documents

Western Front Association

Just received an email from the London Branch of the Western Front Association showing their speakers for 2013. I'm on for Sept 5th. Now I have to create a 45 minute presentation and find a way to pay for the trip. This is an exciting opportunity to promote my book, tell my grandfather's story and donate his documents to the Imperial War Museum.

While in London I want to visit the National Archives to perform a search of the 43rd Brigade's diary and to see if there are any documents on the 40th battery.

I'll also be united with my second cousins, which will be marvelous. Perhaps I'll meet a few others I've been in contact with through various website and blogs.

Could it be?

I posted a request on "Great War Forum" for anyone that may have had a relative that served in the 43rd Brigade, 40th battery RFA. Today I checked to see if I received a reply and was again impressed with the depth of knowledge.

A member added the following response:
I have a few names of men in 40th Bty in 1914
Shoeing Smith George Henry Beardmore  49286    
Gunner Harry Bloor 70835    
Saddler Staff Serjeant Thomas J Boyton  19980    
Serjeant Percy Bramwell 33916
Driver William Brittain  73069    
Lieutenant  D J  Handford    
Driver George  Hillyard  73070    
Corporal George James  Hodge 42275
Gunner  Christopher Johnson 2725         
Gunner  Harry  Walsh 74411 

Then he added:
Having done a little checking 40th Bty was created in 1913 from what had been 148th Bty during the reorganization of Brigades and some of them can be identified in the 1911 census records of 148th Bty - then stationed at Woolwich - I can see that Boyton, Bramwell and Hodge [see above] were all serving in 148th Bty in spring 1911.... as was Driver William John Glew ...and Driver Frank William Taylor

Suddenly a thought struck me! Could William John Glew be Bobby Glue? Since my grandfather referred to Percy Bramwell as George, could he have used Bobby instead of Billy? Then what about the Driver, Frank William Taylor. Might this be Pudgie Taylor?

I replied to his post by giving him the particulars about the death of Bobby Glue and that he and Pudgie Taylor died in one of the battles of Ypres. I added that I believe it might have been the first battle of Ypres since my grandfather's letter stated that he lost his friends within the first few months of the war.

In my grandfather's journal he states the "Hodge" (his lube off-man) was killed. 

Wouldn't this be a find!!!