by Edwin Astill » Wed Mar 07, 2007 8:05 pm
Mike
The diary covers Johnston's time from mobilization until his visit to occupied Rhineland in 1918, although I had to edit it down from about 150,000 words to just under 100,000. I have also added a biographical summary and a fews paras at points to set the scene. My intention was to let Johnston do the talking - he was there!
I first came across references to the diary when researching the 1st Wiltshire, who were in the same brigade. This resulted in a little book published in 2005 by the Wardrobe Museum (Wiltshire & Berkshire regt Museum, Salisbury.) I was amazed to discover that the Johnston diary had not been published as it it far better than most. Fortunately Col. Lowles was supportive.
Yesterday I sent off corrections to the 1st proof.... and hope the thing will come out in the summer.
Since working on Johnston I have been looking at other 3rd Worcestershire material, and hope to be able to do something with Allen Whitty's diary. The Regiment certainly showed up some very remarkable soldiers!
My own family connection with the Great War was a Grandfather who went over with 7th Field Coy RE, and another Grandfather in the Royal Navy - escort duties etc.
Edwin
Edwin Astill