The Central Way with artillery explosions near OG1.
Last episode we briefly covered the fate of the 2nd Division's attack on the 28th July 1916, based upon the information which trickled back to Brigade HQ. This time, we look in depth to examine the front line solider perspective and see what went wrong.
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2nd Division Order of Battle for 28th July 1916. Note the arc of the German lines, requiring the advancing Australians to fan out in their advance.
Official History.
The 6th Brigade’s 23rd Battalion objectives.
After advancing too far to Park Lane, the 23rd established their line on Courcelette Road. When the 26th pulled withdrew, the 23rd pulled their right flank back to link the new position to the old.
A German soldier in a communication trench leading up to Pozieres prior to the battle.
Courtesy Australian War Memorial
The village of Pozieres before the war. The road is Bapaume Road.
Courtesy Australian War Memorial
All that was left of Bapaume Road after the fighting had moved on.
Courtesy Australian War Memorial
The OG lines photographed in October 1916, looking towards the Windmill.
Courtesy Australian War Memorial