Diary transcript of Keith McKeddie Doig, 1916-1917

Diary transcript relating to the First World War service of Major Keith McKeddie Doig, 60th Infantry Battalion, 28 July [1916] - 7 April 1917.

In this diary transcript, Doig briefly notes several days at sea immediately after embarkation and several days in England, before proceeding to document his first six months of active service in France. He describes his first impressions of the Somme battlefields, and often remarks on the cold weather and the physical challenges of going to and from the front line in wet and muddy conditions. He notes episodes of intense gunfire and incessant shelling, and describes desolate landscapes and destroyed villages.

In his role as a Medical Officer, Doig provides an insight into the operation of regimental aid posts and the treatment of casualties on the front line. He expresses admiration for the bravery of stretcher-bearers navigating trenches and difficult terrain amidst shelling, and closely observes the plight of wounded soldiers including the prevalence of trench foot. Closing diary entries document Doig's movements from the Somme battlefields to the Pas-de-Calais district just prior to the First Battle of Bullecourt.

The diary transcript includes some short typescript and handwritten notes, and was transcribed by one of Keith McKeddie Doig's children at an unknown date.