Bryant, Leonard Clyde M M (Lance Corporal b.1893 - d.1969)

Detailed diary describing experiences as a stretcher bearer and caring for wounded in the trenches on the Western Front from 1916 to 1918. Includes vivid descriptions of heavy gas attacks near Armentieres and heavy artillery fire near Pozieres in the summer of 1916, as well as the miserable conditions and bitter weather endured near Flers during winter 1916/17, carrying the wounded through mud, rain and heavy shelling. Entries for 1917 describe the second attack at Bullecourt and the Third Battle of Ypres, comparing cleanliness and hospitality in relation to the Flanders and Somme battlefield areas. For 1918 the diary includes comments on the beginning of the German offensive in the Somme, German shelling of Hazebrouck, and the use of German prisoners as stretcher bearers after the successful advance by the 1st Australian Division near Proyart (omitting to mention that he was awarded the Military Medal for bravery on 22 August). The diary conveys a sense of excitement and adventure, and includes colourful descriptions of unit entertainments, leave in France and "blighty" leave in Britain and Ireland.