| Places | |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | AWM2017.6.297 |
| Collection number | 3DRL/2272 |
| Collection type | Digitised Collection |
| Record type | File |
| Item count | 1 |
| Object type | Diary |
| Physical description | 70 Image/s captured |
| Maker |
Dakin, Clarence Herbert |
| Place made | France |
| Date made | 1916 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
Diary of Clarence Herbert Dakin, 20 May 1916 - 12 December 1916
Description
Army Book 136 relating to the First World War service of Second Lieutenant Clarence Herbert Dakin, 5th Machine Gun Company. Written in an Army book, titled 'France 20-5-1916 - 12-12-1916', this diary was written between 20 May 1916 - 12 December 1916. It covers his service on the Western Front including: early experiences of the front line around Bois-Grenier; Pozieres; attending gas school and wearing gas masks; getting used to wearing steel helmets; gas attacks; artillery bombardments; and casualties. He also writes daily weather reports, describes the scenery, the challenge of handing in personal belongings prior to Pozieres and often comments on the aircraft and balloons. He expresses frustration with the leadership and organisation of movements, leave and billets.