Western Front 1915

In 1915 the British Army still suffered from lack of automatic weapons, of medium and heavy artillery and of ammunition. Successful offence for strategic results was not possible except by the French. During the year eight Service battalions of the Regiment joined the Army, as follows:

The 14th and 15th Reserve Battalions were formed in this year, but were merged into the General Training Reserve in October, 1916.

In March Lieutenant-Colonel E. Northey was promoted to command the 15th Brigade and Major G. L. Shakerley succeeded to the command of the 1st Battalion. Lieutenant-Colonel C. Gosling was promoted to command the 7th Infantry Brigade in July, Major W. L. Long succeeding to the command of the 3rd Battalion.

Trench Warfare

The four Regular battalions all suffered heavy losses in the trench fighting in Flanders in terrible conditions during this winter. A noteworthy attack was that made by the 4th Battalion at St. Eloi, 1st March. This gallant attack, which was carried out as ordered, never had any chance of success. It gained a special mention from the G.O.C.-in-C. The strength of the Battalion was 300.

Losses: Officers: killed 3, wounded 3; Other Ranks: 108.