The Great War Diaries of Brigadier Alexander Johnston

By Edwin Astill

ISBN 9781844155811 (hardback)

Published by Pen and Sword Books Ltd

 

Alexander Johnston went over to France in August 1914 as the signals officer for 7 Infantry Brigade. He went on to serve in that capacity with 3rd Division before becoming, in turn, Brigade Major, Commanding Officer 10th Battalion Cheshire Regiment and finally Officer Commanding 126 Infantry Brigade. Throughout he proved himself to be a brave, resourceful and determined soldier. He was always close to the front line, yet his signals and staff duties gave him insights into the conduct of the war at higher levels. Therein lies the value of this diary. Many of the major engagements of the war are covered. He took part in Mons, Le Cateau and the subsequent retreat and advance to the Aisne.

The diary provides valuable insights into the battle of La Bassee and the trench warfare of 1915. As a Brigade Major he was kept busy in 1916 with both holding the line (in the face of intensive enemy mining operations) and the Somme battle. By 1917 his work in command of 10th Cheshire Regiment showed positive results in the battalion’s performance at Messines and gained him promotion to Brigadier General. Within days of taking command he was up at the front line where he was badly wounded. But for the wound Johnston may well have gained even higher command and wider acclaim for his services. The diary is an important addition to the literature of the Great War.

Alexander Colin Johnston was commissioned into the Worcestershire Regiment on the 4th November 1903. During the 1914-18 War he was awarded the Military Cross (M.C.) in 1914 whilst serving as a signals officer. In 1916 whilst commanding the 10th Battalion Cheshire Regiment he was award the Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.) for his actions at the Somme. A year later in 1917 he was to be awarded a bar to his D.S.O. for his actions at Ypres. During the course of the war he was mentioned in despatches no less than 5 times and in 1916 was awarded the French Criox de Guerre.

 

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