page 96

Chapter IXThe Action of Mortars (Generally in the Advance)

Light mortar detachments were generally detailed to move forward in rear of the leading assaulting battalions and, as far as possible, adopted the formation of the assaulting waves of infantry. The actual position occupied by detachments in the course of the advance was determined by the nature of the opposition expected, the condition of the ground, and the distance to be covered. It had to be borne in mind that the battery personnel and attached carrying parties carried heavy loads and could not advance as rapidly as the infantry.

The mortar was brought into action against machine guns, strong points, and any other form of opposition that temporarily page 97checked the advance. The supply of ammunition that could be carried forward was, as above stated, limited; this was especially so at the Battle of Gravenstafel, owing to the terrible state of the ground, which was mostly bogs, and the mortar was only called upon for assistance when the normal weapons of the Infantry soldier proved ineffective. When the mortar was brought into action in these circumstances it was essential that the closest understanding should exist between the trench mortar detachments and the infantry detailed to attack the position. Generally a short hurricane bombardment was begun, during which the attacking party advanced as near their objective as possible and waited in shell holes, and then a determined rush of the Infantry with the bayonet succeeded in overcoming the opposition. Battery officers always endeavoured to keep in touch with the situation and be prepared on their own initiative to render assistance wherever it was obviously required. page 98 This could only be done by careful reconnaissance well in advance of the actual position of the mortars. As soon as the objective was captured the mortars, with the leading battalions, took up positions covering points of tactical importance and dug in their guns, to be ready to fire, upon S.O.S. signals being given in case of a counter-attack by the enemy, and in such a case the mortars put up a barrage from 25 to 50 yards in front of our position on the front attacked.

As soon as possible after the objectives were captured forward dumps of ammunition were established at previously selected points, and thus the position of the infantry was made more secure.