19th Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps

   19th Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps joined 2nd Division in August 1915, they saw action at The Battle of Loos before leaving 2nd Division in November 1915 when 33rd Division was strengthened by the exchange of 98th Brigade for the experienced 19th Brigade from 2nd Division, near Morbecque. They were in action in the Battles of the Somme. In 1917 they took part in the Arras Offensive, The actions on the Hindenburg Line, the Operations on the Flanders coast and the Third Battles of Ypres. In 1918 they were in action in the Battles of the Lys, the Battles of the Hindenburg Line and the Final Advance in Picardy. At the Armistice the Division was in a peroid of rest in the Sambre valley near Leval Demobilisation took placr throughout the first months of 1919 with Divisional HQ moving to Le Havre on the 28th of February

24th January 1915 RAMC 19th Field Ambulance   Reporting for duty at Armentières Temp Lieut A D Haydon reported himself for duty and was posted to B Section.

26th January 1915 Opening of convalescent ward - Armentières  Lieut. H V Soltau RAMC (SR) reported his arrival and posted to ? medical charge of Sherwood Foresters in relief of Lieut. Perry proceeding on 8 days leave.
Capt. Nicholls and Lieut. Haydon placed on sick list today.
Convalescent ward opened in the École Professionale today and staff of 1 MO, 1 NCO and 3 men appointed for duty there. Slight cases both medical and surgical will be kept there in future and returned to their units without having to be sent down to the ?

28th January 1915 Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders appointment, Armentières  Lieut. Chandler appointed to the medical charge of 21 Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders in relief of Lieut. Balfour who is temporarily attached to this Field Ambulance.

3rd February 1915 2nd Btn Royal Welsh Fusiliers posting (Armentières  Lt Haydon posted to temporary medical charge of the 2/RW Fusiliers in relief of Lt Harbison proceeding to England on 8 days leave.

4th February 1915 Visit of Surgeon General O'Donnell to RAMC Armentières  Lt Soltau returned from Sherwood Foresters on being relieved by Lt Perry from leave of absence. Surg. General O'Donnell visited the Field Ambulance this afternoon.

5th February 1915 1st Middlesex Regt medical posting at Armentières  Lt Soltau posted to medical charge of 1/Middx Regt in relief of Lt Cohen who joined the Field Ambulance for duty.

6th February 1915 Scarlet Fever case at Armentières  The Scarlet Fever Case admitted on 31st ? Now convalescing and transferred to Infectious Diseases Hospital, Bailleul. No further extensions.

7th February 1915 Visit to 19th Field Ambulance HQ  Visited 19th Btn HQ to interview the Brigadier General re matters concerning medical change of units of the Brigade.

11th February 1915 Temporary posting to 5th Scottish Rifles  Capt T B Nicholls posted to temporary charge of 5/Scottish Rifles in relief of Lt Greaves proceeding to England on 8 days leave. Lt Cohen proceeded on 8 days leave to England.

12th February 1915 Officer changes at 2nd Royal Welsh Fusiliers  Lt Haydon rejoined today on return of Lt Harbison, MO 2/RW Fusiliers from leave.

13th February 1915 Enteric Fever Case notified
Lt Haydon admitted to hospital suffering from Acute Bronchitis. Telegraphic orders received for Capt. T B Nicholls to take over No 1 Advanced Depot Medical Stores, Merville.
Lt. Hampton took over temporary medical charge of 5/Scottish Rifles from Capt. t B Nicholls. Visited HQ of 2/Durham Light Infantry to enquire into contacts of a Pte Hall notified from the Base as suffering from Enteric Fever. All contacts to be sent to 19 Field Ambulance for examination as to being 'carriers'.

14th February 1915 Durham Light Infantry enteric fever testing
Three men of DLI who have been intimately associated with Pte Hall admitted for observation - bottle and tubes sent from Mobile Laboratory for collection of faeces and urine for bacteriological examination and dispatched the next morning.

15th February 1915 Enteric fever developments  Three more men of DLI admitted for observation as carriers.

16th February 1915 Lieutenant Haydon sick  Lt. Haydon transferred sick to Base with acute post influenzal bronchitis.

17th February 1915 Canadians officers start to train

19th February 1915 Leave cancelled  All leave cancelled and postponed for present. The relief of Lt. Armstrong MO DLI by Lt. Cohen tomorrow has therefore been cancelled.

20th February 1915 Leave re-opened  Leave re-opened.

21st February 1915 Change in medical charge DLI   Orders received from ADMS Assistant Director of Medical Services 6th Division detailing Lt Cohen of the 19th Field Ambulance RAMC to take over medical charge of DLI during the absence on leave of Lt. Armstrong.

23rd February 1915 Changes in personnel and promotion  Major Templeton and Capt. Vesey departed last night. Capt. W A Burgess 2nd Canadian Field Ambulance joined today for one week's instruction. Temporary Lt. Robertson reported himself from No 6 General Hospital, Rouen for duty. No 11000 Sgt-Major W H Storey promoted Lieut. and Quartermaster and proceeded to the Depot RAMC Aldershot for duty.

28th February 1915 New arrival from 1st Scottish Rifles  Lt. Davidson RAMC from medical charge of 1/Cameronians reported his arrival for duty, having been relieved by Lt. Robertson of this Field Ambulance.

1st March 1915 Changes in personnel  The Field Ambulance continues to work the area occupied by the 18th Infantry Brigade as during last month. Capt. Burgess 2 Canadian Field Ambulance left to rejoin his own unit. Lt. A P Ford reported his arrival from St Omer for duty.

2nd March 1915 19th Field Ambulance Inspection  The General Officer Commanding Jt Division accompanied by the Brig-General 19th Infantry Brigade inspected all the transport of 19th Field Ambulance at Armentières this afternoon.

5th March 1915 Illness

7th March 1915 Posting  Lt. R Clark reported his arrival at Armentières from St Omer for duty with 19th Field Ambulance RAMC.

8th March 1915 Opening of Officers Convalescent Depot in Armentières  Officers Convalescent Depot, 96 Rue Sadi Carnot opened today for reception of officers. QMS Aldhous joined from the 16th Field Ambulance for duty.

9th March 1915 Preparations for Houplines  Lt. R Clark posted to medical charge of 5/Scottish Rifles in relief of Lt. Hampton who rejoins the Field Ambulance for duty. 'B' Bearer Subdivision ordered to be held in readiness with wagons by AAMO 6th Division, in the event of being required if a demonstration is made in front of the Houplines section of trenches.
*AAMO Assistant Administrative Medical Officer

10th March 1915 More preparations for Houplines  'C' Bearer subdivision held in readiness for duty.

11th March 1915 action at L'Epinette  'A' Bearer subdivision under Lt. Davidson "standing to" tonight. Went out to Houplines to rendezvous at corner of Rue de l'Egalité. The action of L'Epinette took place in early hours of 12th March, and with the aid of a motor ambulance wagon temporarily attached from 6th Division, HQ some 40 wounded of the North Staffordshire Regiment were collected - the enterprise was successful, and the village occupied.

12th March 1915 Many wounded at L'Epinette  Action of L'Epinette took place in the early hours of the morning. Shelling of the new trenches at L'Epinette apparently been proceeding all day. First information received by 19th Field Ambulance RAMC from the 17th Battalion HQ that there were many wounded (5pm) and bearers required - Lt. Hampton and 'B' Bearer Subdivision with motor ambulance wagon and three Horsted wagons went out, supplemented later by the remaining Bearers Subdivisions, and by 7 horsed ambulance wagons. It appears from the telegrams received that wounded were not being satisfactorily evacuated, as I proceeded out to this area myself, but found evacuation proceeding as rapidly as wounded could be brought in. The MO of N. Staffordshire and his stretcher bearers however appeared overcome with the work and the Field Ambulance bearers were therefore used to work up to the trenches which was done most satisfactorily. Some 89 wounded were brought in to 19th Field Ambulance, of which some 35 were sent to the 17th Field Ambulance. Lt. EFW Grellter reported his arrival for duty with 19th Field Ambulance RAMC.

13th March 1915 Continued shelling  Some shelling of the new trenches appears to have been going on during the day at L'Epinette reported by 19th Field Abulance. Lt. Ford and 'C' Bearer Subdivision went out tonight, for the collection of the wounded

14th March 1915 Shell burst in W Yorks billet  Received information that a shell had burst in one of the billets of the West Yorks at Houplines. Sent out shortly after 1 pm 2 squads of bearers, the Motor Ambulance wagon and brought in 34 wounded (7men were killed). Wired for motor convoy, and at 6 pm all were evacuated to Bailleul. In evening Lt. Davidson, when supervising the collection of wounded of the Leinster Reg (20 cases) was wounded near the cemetery, in left hand and left hip. Lt. Preston was sent out to Advanced Post to take over the duty.

15th March 1915 19th Field Ambulance Move  Received secret orders re move of 19th Field Ambulance to Erquinghem-Lys to take over the billets of 18th Field Ambulance and work line of 19th Infantry Brigade.
Lt. Gurney-Dixon reported his arrival for duty. Lt. Davidson, GS wounds, left hand and hip, transferred to Base this morning.

18th March 1915 Preparations for 19th Field Ambulance move  Received orders from AAMO 6 Division for the move noted above to take place on 20th inst. This Field Ambulance will then work the line of the 19th Infantry Brigade, and have an Advanced Dressing Post at Gris Pot. One section will be detailed under Major Ahern to take over the 6th Divisional Bath House.
Visited the Advanced Post at Gris Pot and Regimental Posts of line to be worked.

29th March 1915 19th Field Ambulance leaves Armentières  Handed over the billets and hospitals established in the Institution St Jude to a representative of the 18th Field Ambulance; also the Advanced Post at Houplines, and the clearing of the section of trenches held by the 18th Infantry Brigade, and one Regiment of the 17th Infantry Brigade

20th March 1915 On the Move

24th March 1915 Visit by DGMS   Sir Arthur Sloggett (DGMS)* accompanied by Surg-Gen Porter (DAMO II Army) visited the Field Ambulance today. *Director-General of the Medical Services,

31st March 1915 A quiet time  Very little work doing in this line. Nothing to record since last entry.

1st April 1915 Continued collection of wounded  The 19th Field Ambulance continues to collect sick and wounded from the line of the 19th Infantry Brigade, in the section of trenches between Rue du Bois and Touquet.

2nd April 1915 Changes in command  Orders having been received, Major D Ahern left today for duty. Lt. Hampton posted to command of 'B' Section and Lt. Gurney-Dixon placed in charge of Divisional Bath House.

5th April 1915 Arrival of temporary lieutenant  Temp. Lt. Gibbons reported his arrival from the Base.

6th April 1915 Visit by new ADMS  Col. B H Scott the new Assistant Director Medical Services of 6th Division visited the Field Ambulance this morning.

7th April 1915 Change of signal interpreters  Staff interpreter M H Murhange left for St Omer and succeeded by Interpreter Schopin from the 6th Divisional Signal Coy.

11th April 1915 Motor ambulance arrives  A motor ambulance wagon sent by ADMS 6th Division arrived for temporary duty with 19th Field Ambulance.

17th April 1915 Changes in personnel  Lt. H F Mullan reported his arrival from 13 general Hospital, and posted to 'A' section.
Lt. Hampton taken over the duties of Transport Officer in addition to his other duties.

18th April 1915 Transfer to Boulogne  Lt. Preston having been relieved by Lt. Mullen proceeded this day to Boulogne for duty.

22nd April 1915 Motor ambulances replace horsed wagons  Seven motor ambulance wagons from St Omer arrived for duty with 14 MT* drivers in place of seven horsed wagons to be withdrawn.
* Mechanical transport

23rd April 1915 Transfer of horsed wagons  Orders received by 19th Field Ambulance at Erquinghem-Lys for the seven horsed ambulance wagons to be sent to No. 1 Co. 6th Divisional Train this morning, with drivers and horses. The motor ambulance wagon sent by the ADMS 6th Division has been sent to the 16th Field Ambulance.

25th April 1915 Arrangements for collection of sick and wounded  19th Field Ambulance, RAMC at Erquinghem-Lys. The night party for advanced post now leaves at 8 pm, and the motor ambulance wagon at 8.30 pm, for the collection of the sick and wounded from Regimental Aid Posts of the trenches.

28th April 1915 Preparations for enemy gas attack  Lt. Grellier proceeded by Motor Ambulance wagon to St Omer today with two other officers to be interviewed by the DGMS* in the Field. Owing to the attack in the North, the enemy employing poisonous gas, masks made of gauze, and saturated withSoda Bicarbonate solution (2oz to a wine bottle) are being prepared for the men of the Field Ambulance. * Director General Medical Services

1st May 1915 Gas mask instructions  The 19th Field Ambulance continues to work the line of the 19th Infantry Brigade in the trenches between Rue du Bois and Touquet. Certain orders received as to the making of masks to combat poisonous gases received from ADMS 6th Division, to consist of 10 to 12 layers of gauze.

2nd May 1915 Reports on continued use of gas   Alteration of time of duty of Orderly Officer to the hours 7 pm-7 pm following on with duty at Advanced Post at Gris Pot from 8 pm to 8 am. Heavy cannonading taking place in the North today, and reports that gas is being used again by the enemy.

4th May 1915 Visit to Bailleul hospital  Proceeded to Casualty Clearing Hospital in Bailleul with Capt. Browne and Lt. Chandler, MO/A&SH* to see gas poisoning cases - and to find out the best means of treating such cases in the initial stage.
* Medical Officer Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders

6th May 1915 Inspections  Some shelling of L'Armée and Armentières early this morning, two wounded admitted to 19th Field Ambulance, Erquinghem-Lys GOC 6th Division inspected the buildings used as hospitals and billets by 19th Field Ambulance and also the transport lines and expressed himself as most pleased with the conditions. 1st weekly inspection of Motor Vehicles by Lt. Tyler 19th Brigade Supply Column. All repairs to motor vehicles of 19th FA will be undertaken by that Supply Column.

7th May 1915 Investigation of nephritis cases  19th Field Ambulance report "Several cases have recently occurred showing albuminuria and other symptoms of a nephritis - there is a question of them being of an infective nature, but steps are being taken to elicit some more definite information. Lt. Chandler, Medical Officer Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, has sent in a report on 8 cases which he considers to be of the nature of post-influenzal. This report was sent to Assistant Director of Medical Services 6th Division. A similar case was admitted yesterday and another one today - from records so far obtained there seems to be an interval of 8 days between admissions from respective billets."

8th May 1915 Bearers reinforcement preparations  19th Field Ambulance received orders from Assistant Director of Medical Services 6th Division, to reinforce Advanced Post at Gris Pot by 1/2 A Bearer subdivision tonight and the Bearer subdivisions of other two sections to be held in readiness at a moment's notice.
Lt. Mullan i/c Advanced Post tonight, but sent down Capt. Browne with Sgt. Carter and 12 men as additional stretcher bearers - in addition they took surgical haversacks, shell dressings and water bottles and respirators and bottles of saturated soda bicarbonate solution - B and C Bearers standing to. Sgt. Matthews, Army Service Corps arrived last night for duty as motor cyclist with 19th Field Ambulance.

9th May 1915 Orders are changed  Very heavy gunfire by the guns this morning between 4.39 and 5.30 behind the 19th Infantry Brigade. The 8th Division in action today. Received orders 12 noon to bring in reinforcements from Advanced Post, and cancel the Bearer subdivisions being held in readiness.

10th May 1915 Arrangements for Respirators  OC 19th Field Ambulance proceeded to Nieppe with Assistant Director of Medical Services South Midland Division to see the arrangements made for the use of Mouth Pads and Respirators. Further new orders received from 3rd Corps with regard to Respirators, cancelling all previous orders.

11th May 1915 Hypo supplies arrive  Medical Board assembled to examine as to physical fitness of No 17844 Staff Sgt W A Clenshaw for promotion to a commission in the ASC.
Received from 19th Infantry Brigade 110 Nip Bottles for solution. Hypo for damping Respirators of Bearers of 19th Field Ambulance.

12th May 1915 Another Medical Board  19thField Ambulance report from Erquinghem-Lys "Medical Board on Capt. Cuthbert 3rd Btn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers for commission in Regular Army by order of Brig-Gen commanding 19th Brigade. Procedures forwarded to Assistant Director of Medical Services 6th Division for approval."

13th May 1915 Lieutenant found unsuited to Field Ambulance work   After a spell of real summer weather- a wet day.
Heavy gunfire in the south all day.
Sent in report on Temp Lt. Gibbons as being unsuited for a Field Ambulance.

14th May 1915 Commission interview  Staff Sgt. Clenshaw 19th Field Ambulance was interviewed by the GOC 6th Division with regard to his application for a commission in the ASC.

15th May 1915 New pattern respirators arrive  Received from HQ 19th Infantry Brigade 125 new pattern (cotton waste in gauze) Respirators for 19th Field Ambulance.
DDMS* 3rd Corps visited the Field Ambulance this morning re Lt. Gibbons
*Deputy Director Medical Services

16th May 1915 Hypos arrive  Received from 6th Divisional Train 16 lbs Hypos for mask solution. Lt.Gibbons detailed to proceed to Bailleul to be interviewed by DDMS* 3 corps
*Deputy Director Medical Services

17th May 1915 Regimental water duties instruction  Course of instruction for water duties with a Regiment commenced today - three men per section detailed.

18th May 1915 New Hypo solution  All respirators are now being soaked in a new solution of Hypo (10lbs to the gallon) with soda carb and glycerine - Nip bottles filled with a similar solution.
Orders are received by 19th Field Ambulance from ADMS 6th Division, that all cases of Gun Shot wounds are to have a 'T' marked with indelible pencil on either wrist if anti-tetanus has been injected.

19th May 1915 Posting   Lt. Macleod, MO 9th Scottish Rifles arrived from 9th Division for instruction till 22nd inst. He proceeded with Capt. Browne today to see Advanced Post and Regimental Aid Posts, and in evening proceeded with Lt. Hampson to see the procedure of collecting sick and wounded at night.

20th May 1915 Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders arrive  Lt. Macleod proceeds to Gris Pot to be instructed in medical work in the trenches by Lt. Chandler.
10 Battalion Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders arrived in billets at Blue Blind Factory attached to 19th 1B till 22nd inst.
Hyposulphite of soda unobtainable at present. Some 50 Respirators already soaked - awaiting hypo to continue.

21st May 1915 53rd RFA arrives  Lt. Macleod taken around trenches of 1/Cameronians by Lt. Robertson for instruction, also to 5/Scottish Rifles by Lt. Clark.
53 Btn Royal Field Artillery (9 Div) arrived in 19 1B area.

22nd May 1915 9th Scottish Rifles march in  Lt. Macleod rejoins his Regiment 9/Scottish Rifles, which marched in today to work in 19th Infantry Brigade area. Billeted in Blue Blind Factory.

23rd May 1915 Instruction  Lt. G Millar Medical Officer of 2nd Battalion Highland Light Infantry joined 19th Field Ambulance, at Erquinghem-Lys, today for instruction. He proceeded with me to Advanced Post at Gris Pot to see position and proceeds tonight with Lt. Grellier to see procedure of collecting sick and wounded from Regimental Aid Posts. Visited 19 1B head quarters for conference on operation to take place tonight, which was postponed later for 24 hours.

24th May 1915 Attack on Bridoux Road  Lt. Millar proceeded this morning to the Cameronians Aid Post - Bois Grenier to meet Lt. Robertson to be instructed in medical work in the trenches of that Regiment.
Lt. Ford proceeded also this morning to take over temporary medical charge of the Cameronians in relief of Lt. Robertson proceeding to England on leave on urgent affairs.
Attack made on the Bridoux Road by 148 Infantry Brigade at 8 p.m. Precautionary measures taken by this Field Ambulance A Bearers subdivision under Capt. Browne, Lt. Hampson and Sgt. Carter proceeded to Advanced Post at 7.15 pm. Sgt. Matthews, motor cyclist, proceeds also in order to keep up communication with this headquarters. The whole remained at Advanced Post all night and wounded would have been collected from dug-outs in communication trench.

25th May 1915 Instruction at 1st Middlesex Regiment  Operation last night resulted in no casualties occurring in 19 IB. Reinforcements at Advanced Post returned at 8 am. Lt. Millar proceeded to trenches of 1/Middlesex Regiment for instruction by Lt. Soltau MO* of that Regiment.
* Medical Officer

26th May 1915 Case of Enteric Fever   Armourer Sgt. Marshall of Agyll & Sutherland Highlanders reported from Bailleul to be suffering from Enteric Fever. Investigations as to contacts and billets - no satisfactory information could be elicited; no trace of probable carriers.
Information that the 6th Division leaves this area this week received, being relieved by the 27th Division 19 IB remains in present situation.
Lt. Millar rejoined his Regiment this afternoon.

28th May 1915 Cerebrospinal Meningitis

29th May 1915 Gibbons replaced by Hill   Lt. R C Hill arrived this morning in relief of Temp. Lt.. Gibbons who proceeded to Boulogne this afternoon to report to DDMS* there.
* Deputy Director Medical Services

31st May 1915 Field Artillery takes over  3rd Corps orders state: 19th Infantry Battalion will be attached to 27 Division from this date, 6th Division has officially left this area. 81st Field Artillery takes over Factory and billets of 16th Field Artillery and works Divisional Rest Station at Bac St Maurice. 82nd Field Artillery takes over the Institution St Jude, Armentières and 83rd Field Artillery the École Professionale, Armentières

1st June 1915 Arrangements with 81st Field Ambulance  The 19th Infantry Brigade occupy the same line of trenches between the Bridoux Road and Railway at Rue du Bois with in addition a section formerly occupied by the 17th Infantry Brigade, owing to one of the Brigades of the 27th Division being considerably under strength.
Arrangements have been made for the 81st Field Ambulance at Erquinghem to collect the sick and wounded from the Regiment of 19 1B occupying the section north of the Railway as stated above, from Arrêt in I8a (sheet 36 1/40000) bringing them to this Field Ambulance on passing through to the 81st Field Ambulance headquarters.

2nd June 1915 Visit by DADMS 27th Div  The DADMS* 27th Division visited this Field Ambulance and discussed working of line of the 19th Infantry Brigade by this Field Ambulance.
* Deputy Assistant Director Medical Services

3rd June 1915 Return  Lt. Ford rejoined from the 1/ Cameronians on Lt. Robertson returning from leave.

4th June 1915 Enteric fever and meningitis cases   Reported case of Enteric Fever in Estaminet au Pogrès - a civilian occupant. Armourers of Division removed and put in other billets and place placed "out of bounds".
Pte. Dainton 5/Scottish Rifles admitted to Field Ambulance with cerebrospinal meningitis and special wagon sent for, and case sent to Isolation Hospital, Bailleul. The case was apparently a sporadic case, and occurred in billets. All steps were taken with Lt. Clark, MO of Regiment for isolation of contacts and daily inspection. Officer commanding Sanitary Section informed and billet disinfected.

5th June 1915 Reports of more meningitis cases   Pte. Dainton's case reported positive; several suspected cases were sent up to Field Ambulance and isolated in tents for observation. Visited MO 5/Scottish Rifles in their billets, and owing to a number of other suspicious cases arranged to lend him some bell tents for segregation purposes.

6th June 1915 Suspicious meningitis cases are negative  Officer in charge of Mobile Laboratory visited the Field Ambulance today and saw all the suspicious cases, and also those segregated in tents of 5/Scottish Rifles, and pronounced the opinion that he considered them negative. General Snow 27th Division visited the Field Ambulance today.

7th June 1915 Still no more meningitis cases  No further signs of cerebrospinal meningitis in cases at present under consideration in Field Ambulance.
General Gordon visited the Field Ambulance.

8th June 1915 More meningitis cases  Visited with Deputy Assistant Director Medical Services 27th Division, the Assistant Director of Medical Services (ADMS) XII Division re arrangements for attachment of officers of 12th Division Field Ambulance to this Field Ambulance.
Four cases reported suspected cerebrospinal meningitis in 5/Scottish Rifles ordered to be sent to Isolation Hospital, Bailleul by ADMS 27th Division. Transferred 8 am 9th June.

9th June 1915 Issue of Respirators  Very hot day. Heavy thunderstorm in late afternoon.
Visited 36th Field Ambulance to see Colonel Dunn with reference to attachment of two of his officers.
Issued Respirators to the Field Ambulance personnel. Lt. Ford appointed Brigade Respirator Adviser.

10th June 1915 Training for lieutenants from 36th Fied Ambulance  Lts. Mawe and Bell 36th Field Ambulance arrived for 6 days instruction on practical duties of a Field Ambulance. Taken by Capt. Williamson to Advanced Post in Gris Pot, and to Regimental Aid Posts to see them in daylight. Respirator parade of Field Ambulance this afternoon.

11th June 1915 Training by 2nd Royal Welch MO  Lts. Mawe and Bell proceeded to trenches of 2nd Royal Welch Fusiliers and instruction given by Lt. Harbison Medical Officer of that Regiment.

12th June 1915 Athletics - sports day  Athletic sports in Erquinghem of the 19th Field Ambulance. General Snow and Brig-General Gordon attended. Lt. Col Brackenridge presented the prizes .
Lts. Mawe and Bell proceeded to 1st Middlesex trenches and instruction given by Lt. Soltau, MO of that regiment.

13 June 1915 New ADMS 27th Div inspects  Assistant Director of Medical Services (Col. Browne) on taking over the 27th Division inspected the buildings and organisation of the Field Ambulance.

14th June 1915 19th Infantry Brigade change in command  Brig-Gen Gordon commanding the 19th Infantry Brigade inspected the Field Ambulance on parade this morning to say Goodbye, on his proceeding to England to take over the command of a Division of the new army. Lt. Col. P R Robertson to command the Brigade. Lts. Mawe and Bell 36th Field Ambulance left to rejoin their own Field Ambulance owing to orders for that Field Ambulance having to move early tomorrow.

18th June 1915 Attachments with 82nd Field Ambulance  Capt CG Browne and Staff Sgt Clenshaw proceeded to 82nd Field Ambulance. Major GT Willan from 82nd Field Ambulance for temporary duty and attached to the A section.

21st June 1915 Training for lieutenants from 36 FA  Lts. Forgan and Nash 36th Field Ambulance attached for course of instruction.

23rd June 1915 Inspection of trench line held by the 19th Infantry Brigade  During yesterday and today Lts. Forgan and Nash were under instruction in the trenches with Medical Officers of Regiments.
Visited with Col. Dunn and the Medical Officers of Regiments all trench line held by the 19th Infantry Brigade.

24th June 1915 Honours for 19th Field Ambulance  Awards to 19th Field Ambulance. Extracts from London Gazette dated 23rd June 1915:
To be DS0, Capt CG Browne
Military Cross, Lt. RA Preston (now with 13 General Hospital)
DCM, Sgt Bean ASC
DCM - Sgt Carter RAMC
Mentioned in Despatches - Private J Davis.

25th June 1915 Lieutenants rejoin 36th Field Ambulance  War diary records: Lts. Forgan and Nash 36th Field Ambulance ordered to rejoin their Field Ambulance on completion of course of instruction with 19th Field Ambulance at Erquinghem-Lys. Lt. Hampson proceeded on six days leave to England, his transport duties in 19th Field Ambulance, Erquinghem-Lys being undertaken by myself.

26th June 1915 Temporary MO appointment - 5th Scottish Rifles  Lt. Grellier took on temporary medical charge of the 5th Scottish Rifles in relief of Lt. Clark proceeded on leave.

27th June 1915 Two RAMC Sergeants killed by enemy shell  This afternoon several of the enemy's shells burst in the field behind the Mairie, and resulted in the following casualties:
Staff Sgt Allport RAMC killed; Sgt Hale dangerously wounded in head; Sgt Pollock dangerously wounded in arm and leg.
Sgt Hale died 11:30 PM without regaining consciousness.

28th June 1915 Death of third sergeant  Sgt Pollock died at 2 am from shock and loss of blood. It was hoped that his leg might been amputated, and although transfused with saline, no reaction (?) him before death.
Lt. Chapell Quartermaster (?) proceeded on six days leave to England, his duties being undertaken by myself.

1st July 1915 Inspection by DG French Medical Service   The 19th Infantry Brigade continued to hold the line as noted last month, with the exception that the section just north of the railway at Rue du Bois has been taken over by the 81st Infantry Brigade. The Director General of the French Medical Service and his secretary inspected the Field Ambulance with Major B Black RAMC, and afterwards proceeded to see the trenches of the brigade. Lt Col Brackenridge accompanied them also, and Lt. Ford was detailed as guide.

2nd July 1915 Two lieutenants resume duties  Lt. Hampson returned from leave this morning, and Lt. Grellier from temporary duty with the 5/Scottish rifles.

5th July 1915 Demo re damping of smoke helmets.  Lt. Chapell returned from leave this morning.
Lt. Grellier proceeded on eight days leave to England this evening.
Visited 82nd and 83rd Field Ambulances with Assistant Director of Medical Services to see the transport of these units.
Lt. Ford the attended 27th Divisional headquarters to see demonstration re damping of smoke helmets.

7th July 1915 82nd Field Ambulance - changes of duty   Capt CG Browne DSO rejoined from temporary duty with 82nd Field Ambulance. Maj. GT Willan left to rejoin 82nd Field Ambulance.

7th July 1915 Arrivals

8th July 1915 Damping of smoke helmets   Parade of half the Field Ambulance for damping of smoke helmets. Lt. Ford as the Brigade respirator advisor is completing the damping off all smoke helmets of the Brigade.

9th July 1915 Completion of damping of smoke helmets  The remainder of this Field Ambulance paraded for damping of their smoke helmets.

9th July 1915 New OC

10th July 1915 Selecting Field Ambulance sites  Accompanied by Capt. Browne DSO and Lt. Hampson, Transport Officer met the Assistant Director of Medical Services 27th Division north of Erquinghem Bridge to select possible sites for the unopened sections of Field Ambulance in Armentières and Erquinghem. Two farms with adjacent fields likely to be suitable were noted one at B20d4.2 and the other at B26d5.5.
Sent in written report as to disposition of the section the Field Ambulance, showing strength at each place in men, horses and vehicles.

11th July 1915 Still planning Move   Accompanied Assstant Director of Medical Services 27th Division again this afternoon. Farm at B20d4.2 now occupied by Artillery, therefore saw Farm at B26b6.8 with good fields for encampment and horse lines, and also farm at B20c2.6 with large field suitable for two sections of two Field Ambulances men, horses and vehicles. Nothing definite settled, but if Divisional Rest Station moves further back to an encampment, this Field Ambulance would possibly move into the factory at Bac St Maur at present in use as Divisional Rest Station.

12th July 1915 Arrival of Sunbeam and Talbot cars  Assistant Director of Medical Services visited Field Ambulance this morning to interview Lt. Robertson Medical Officer 1/Cameronians, who is applying for a regular commission in the RAMC. Afterwards accompanied by the ADMS to select a suitable site for a divisional rest station camp and in view of this Field Ambulance moving into the factory at Bac St Maur.
Lt.-Col. Rattray proceeding nine days leave this evening and hands over the command to Capt. C G Browne DSO.
(NB this entry signed M M Rattray)
Capt. CG Brown RAMC took over temporary command of the Field Ambulance from Lieutenant-Colonel MM Rattray, who proceeded on leave to England. Seven Sunbeam cars arrived this evening with14 drivers and one NCO and motor bicycle. Five Talbot cars with 10 drivers and one motor bicycle transferred to No.1 MA ( Motor Ambulance) Convoy. The Sunbeam cars are all new 12-16 HP cars and the cycle is a Douglas.
(NB this entry signed CG Brown)

13th July 1915 Cars sent in error   Instruction received from OC (Officer Commanding) MA (Motor Ambulance) convoys that the Sunbeam cars had been sent to these this unit in error. The five Talbots returned and Sunbeams with personnel etc were returned to OC MA Convoy. Lt. Ford RAMC completed the damping of smoke helmets for the 19th Infantry Brigade.

15th July 1915 Immediate move to Fort Rompu  Capt. JB Williamson RAMC assumed temporary command of 19th Field Ambulance vice Capt. CG Browne RAMC appointed Deputy Assistant Director Medical Services VII Corps. Capt. CG Browne left the unit for GHQ this day. (Signed CG Browne)
Orders received at 2 pm from Assistant Director of Medical Services 27th Division, for 19th Field Ambulance to move at once to brewery at Fort Rompu, square H7d6.4. 19th Field Ambulance Paraded at 3:45 and marched complete at 4 pm. then took over brewery vacated by 26th Field Ambulance. Arranged accommodation for about 40 patients. At 11 pm visited by ADMS who considered accommodation insufficient. Prepared further accommodation allowing for total of about 120 lying down cases. All action posts in area cleared maintained as before. (signed JB Williamson)

16th July 1915 Inspection at Fort Rompu    Visited by Assistant Adjutant and Quartermaster General and Assistant Director of Medical Services 27th Division, who inspected the whole of the building occupied by the unit. The ADMS considered the arrangements for reception of sick and wounded satisfactory.
In the afternoon visited by General Officer Commanding 27th Division.

18th July 1915 DMS visits  Visited by Director of Medical Services First Army.

19th July 1915 Move to Steenwerck   Unclear orders from 19th infantry brigade. Headquarters marched at 10:30 am to billets near Steenwerck, square A15C.sheet 36; relieved by one section 82nd Field Ambulance which took over advanced dressing station at Gris Pot. Divisional baton handed over to charge of 83rd Field Ambulance.
This day the 19th Infantry Brigade was relieved from the trenches, and moved into billets in the area west and south of Steenwerck.
Lt. Hill temporarily attached to Royal Welch Fusiliers, in relief of Lt. Harbison proceeded on nine days leave.

20th July 1915 19th Infantry Brigade transfers to 8th Division  Visited by Deputy Director Medical Services 3rd Corps.
This day the 19th Infantry Brigade and attached troops were transferred from 27th Division to 8th Division.

21st July 1915 Unsuccessful search for new sites for Field Ambulance  Visited by Assistant Director of Medical Services and Deputy Assistant Director Medical Services 8th Division. On their instructions, and accompanied by Lt. Hampson, went to inspect possible sites, in neighbourhood of Nouveau Monde, for Field Ambulance to occupy but found none suitable.

22nd July 1915 19th Field Ambulance ordered to move to Estaires   On orders from 19th Infantry Brigade HQ visited Agricultural College, Estaires, with a view to taking over buildings at present occupied by 1st Highland Field Ambulance 51st Division.
Orders received from the 19th Infantry Brigade headquarters cancelling arrangements re Agricultural College, and ordering Field Ambulance to move on July 23 to Pensionnat des Jeunes Filles, Estaires.

23rd July 1915 19th Field Ambulance moves to Estaires  Rejoined early this morning and assumed command. Lt. Soltau also returned to 1/Middlesex regiment as Medical Officer and Lt. Mullan who has been acting for him rejoined this unit today.
The Field Ambulance moved at 3 pm by march route to Estaires and took over the Pensionnat de Demoiselles from 3rd Highland Field Ambulance. This latter Field Ambulance connects from the trench line and Aid Posts tonight. The 19th Infantry Brigade moves into the section of the trenches (2 battalions) Fauquissart-Picantin, one battalion on Divisional Reserve in billets in Rue de la Lys, two battalions in Brigade Reserve in Laventie and Rue du Bac-Querot.

24th July 1915 19th Field Ambulance opens in the Pensionnat de demoiselles  Took over Advanced Post in Laventie (Hospice Toulouse) and established and opened the Field Ambulance in the Pensionnat de demoiselles in Estaires for reception of sick and wounded. All transport had been parked in a field west of the town, and motor ambulance wagons in the courtyard of the school. Collected sick and wounded of Brigade today. General fatigues, cleaning up the buildings, were carried out in the day.

25th July 1915 Arrangements for collection of cases from the 19th Infantry Brigade  General fatigues continued, many of the rooms had to be whitewashed. Repairing incinerators for refuse and ? The following arrangements made for collection of cases from the 19th Infantry Brigade, at 6 am daily two motor ambulance wagons proceed to the advanced dressings post, and then go round the Aid Posts at M6a4.5 and M12c4.6 collecting all sick and wounded, and then evacuate to main Field Ambulance in Estaires, the officer and reinforcement party returning by the same wagon. At 6 pm two ambulance wagons proceeds to the Advanced Dressing Post with the reinforcement party of one officer, one NCO and four men. At this post the reinforcement party remains the night, the officer in the meantime proceeding to all Aid Posts to collect sick and wounded in two wagons. At Advanced Dressing Post those cases the needing attention are seen to, and the wagons then directed to headquarters in Estaires. One motor ambulance wagon is permanently stationed at the Advanced Dressing Post for emergency cases.

27th July 1915 Preparations in Pensionnat de demoiselles   Reorganisation of wards in Pensionnat de demoiselles, and equipping for 100-300 cases.

29th July 1915 Advanced Dressing Post in Laventie  Visited by Deputy Director Medical Services 3rd Corps and afterwards took him to the Advanced Dressing Post in Laventie, which consists of a long room which can accommodate 30-40 patients with two smaller rooms, and cellar accommodation.
Lt. Hill returned from medical charge of Royal Welsh Fusiliers on relief by Capt. Harbison returned from leave.

30th July 1915 Inspection of cases unfit for trenches.   Visited by Deputy Director Medical Service 8th Division who inspected cases unfit for trenches.

30th Aug 1915 Football

9th Nov 1915 Orders

10th Nov 1915 Orders

11th Nov 1915 Orders Issued

12th Nov 1915 On the Move

17th Nov 1915 On the Move

18th Nov 1915 Orders

1st Dec 1915 Reliefs

2nd Dec 1915 Poor Conditions

4th Dec 1915 Quiet

6th Dec 1915 Bombardment

7th Dec 1915 Artillery Active

8th Dec 1915 Mine Exploded

9th Dec 1915 Wet Day

10th Dec 1915 Moves

11th Dec 1915 Reliefs

12th Dec 1915 Flooding

12th Dec 1915 Training

15th Dec 1915 Training

17th Dec 1915 Instructions Issued

19th Dec 1915 Instructions

21st Dec 1915 Storm

22nd Dec 1915 Conference

23rd Dec 1915 Orders Issued

24th Dec 1915 Flooding

26th Dec 1915 Flooding

27th Dec 1915 On the March

28th Dec 1915 Reliefs

29th Dec 1915 Reliefs

30th Dec 1915 Reliefs

31st Dec 1915 Shelling

16th June 1916 Transfers to 82nd Field Ambulance  Assistant Director of Medical Services of 27th Division visited the Field Ambulance and made arrangements for temporary transfer of Capt. C G Browne and Staff Sgt. Clenshaw to the 82nd Field Ambulance to help with its reorganisation.

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Calvert DCM.. George Henry Wilkinson. (d.19th Nov 1916)
Chapman Albert. Pte.
Cutchey R.. Cpl. (d.16th June 1918)

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264261

Pte. Albert Chapman 19th Field Ambulance Royal Army Medical Corps

Albert Chapman's service in the first few years of the war can be found at this website. He was in the 19th Field Ambulance of the Royal Army Medical Corps. At some point he transferred to 59th Field Ambulance. In Summer 1918 he was involved in a rescue of officers who had got into difficulty swimming in the sea at Paris-Plage.
Peter Jennings

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225544

George Henry Wilkinson Calvert DCM. 19th Field Ambulance Royal Army Medical Corps (d.19th Nov 1916)

My Great Grandfather George Calvert DCM served in the 19th Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps Service No.27773. Henry (as he was known) was born in 1877 in Bedlington, Northumberland and was killed in action on 3rd November 1916 He was buried at Guillemont Road cemetery.
He was Awarded the DCM (Distinguished Conduct Medal) and the citation reads as follows; "Henry entered the war in France on 3rd October 1915. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for conspicuous gallantry while acting as one of the advanced stretcher bearers. He repeatedly made journeys across the open under intense shell fire to bring in wounded men, and exhibited the greatest coolness and courage in the performance of his hazardous duties".

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during the Great War 1914-1918.