Croisilles 21st May 1917

[bradnsj]

I am looking for detail on this engagement, as I believe my grandfather Pte. WH Pratt, 37679 was killed here and has no known grave.
Are there any War Diaries covering this day, or any other pertinent information?

[Kevin Lynott]

Bradley
2nd Bn Worcs Reg was in 100th Brig of the 33rd Div.
The 100th Brig took part in an attack on the Hindenburg Line which commenced on 20th May 1917, its objective being the Croisilles to Fontaine Road to the south east of Arras. By this stage the Hindenburg Line had been battered into an unrecognisable mess and there was confusion as to its exact location for the attacking units.


Kevin

[bradnsj]

Kevin
Thank you.
is there a publication or website or any other source of further information?

[scully]

Hi Neil,

The 2nd Battalion Worcestershire Regiment War diary for the 21st/22nd May 1917 had the following entry:

21st May 1917
" 'C' Coy was forced to retire to the as the Germans nearly surrounded them. Consolidation of the line and bombing on the right went on throughout the day. In the evening the Battalion was relieved by the 2nd R. W. F. and moved back to the trenches W. of CROISILLES previously occupied by the Battalion. The move was completed by 4.30 a.m."

22nd May 1917
"Remained in CROISILLES rest trenches during the day. Casualties about 250. Strength of Battalion about 280. In the evening Coys moved back independently to camp at MOYENNEVILLE. The Drums met Coys at HAMELINCOURT & marchedthem past."

Regards,

Louis

[allanp]

Hi Neil

I have found an entry in the 23 June 1917 edition of the Worcester Herald

37679 Pte W. H. Pratt - Birmingham Killed.

Regards Allan

[bradnsj]

Louis and Allan, Many thanks.
I'm starting to get a better picture.
Anyone else got some more information?

Neil

[LarsA]

Stackes book on the Worcesters have a two page narration on this battle, it might be worth a look up at the library.

Kind regards,
Lars

[bradnsj]

Lars (or anyone else)

Could you give me more detail on this book, please?

Neil

[scully]

Hi Neil,

Select the BOOKS option at the top of the home page of this website then click on WORCS WW1 from the dropdown list. There you will find details of this book.

Regards,

Louis

[bradnsj]

Hello again,
As we approach the 100th Anniversary next year of Arras, and of the part Croisilles played, can anyone please tell me of any planned guided tours covering the events at Croisilles on 21st May 2017?

Best wishes
Neil Bradley