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The Great War (1914-1918) Forum

1st Bn Rifle Brigade


PhilipH

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Does anybody know the date 1 Rifle Brigade landed in France in 1914? The mother site says they were in action at le Cateau on 25 August. Any other info on Battalion movements at that time would be really helpful.

Regards

Philip

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1st Battalion The Rifle Brigade landed @ Le Havre on 23rd August 1914,11th Bde;4th Division.

2nd Bn;4.814 Kuldana~20.9.14 From Bombay Liverpool on 22 October,Landed Le Havre 6.11.14

3rd Bn;4.8.14 Cork,landed St.Nazaire,12.9.14

4th Bn;4.8.14,Dagshai;Devonport Circa;18th November,Landed Le Havre 21.12.14.

I would recommend British Regiments 1914~1919 By Brig;E.A.James,OBE; for Comprehensive Details of Line Regiment Movements.

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Ray Westlake's book "British Battalions in France and Belgium 1914" says that the unit embarked on the SS Cestrian and arrived at Havre in the early hours of 23 August. Entrained on the 24th and travelled to Le Cateau. Detrained 5:30 am of the 25th, marching to Briastre. Dug trenches. Began withdrawal 8:20pm, and arrived 2pm of the 26th; "C" Company moved to Cattenieres, driving off enemy cavalry patrols.

Battalion came under shell fire and withdrew to defensive positions on a sunken road between Ligny and Fontaine-au-Pire, holding this position under heavy fire. Eventually forced to withdraw to Ligny. By 6pm had begun retreat.

Westlake's book is invaluable for tracking movements of BEF units. Hope this helps.

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Harry & Terry

Thank you. 2 great uncles were serving with them. One made it through, the other did not.

Regards

Philip

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