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157. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 33. PART II. (From 16th to 30th April 1917.)’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 30 April 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, and memoranda containing instructions and reports.The volume mostly relates to:Supplies for Force D, including: weapons, ammunition, road transport, and rationsPlans for moving reinforcements between Mesopotamia, Egypt, and FranceConstruction and transportation of rivercraft from India to MesopotamiaProposals to store ammunition locally rather than in IndiaDetails of tonnage [amounts of cargo] transported on railways and riversMatters relating to railways constructionTurkish [Ottoman] troops: movements; status at various lines in Mesopotamia; weapon supplies; plans to retire to Mosul; and extracts of distribution for week ending 17 April (ff 30-31) and week ending 24 April (ff 96-97)Discussions about Force D providing food and grain to the Russian forces under General Pavloff [Pavlov]Cordial attitude of the Mujtahids of Kerbela [Karbala] and Nejef [An-Najaf] towards touring British political officersIssues relating to staffingIntelligence from the Caucasus Military AgencyIntelligence from the General Officer Commanding, Egypt, especially in relation to the Turkish 18th Army CorpsUpdates from the Tigris line, especially around Samarra [Samarra’] and Istabulat [Istablat], including a resumé of operations on the Tigris since the arrival of the RussiansStatus of the Russian force at Kasr-i-Shirin [Qasr-e Shirin]Alleged misconduct of the 3rd Brahmans and subsequent military court proceedingsDetails of the present telegraph systemCommunications with the Russian force in Persia [Iran]Information on ships in various Indian ports and at Basrah [Basra]Updates on action at HitTransport required to evacuate sick and wounded soldiersDiscussions about the Press representatives' tour of Mesopotamia and where they should be permitted to visitRoyal Flying Corps reportsDiscussions about consolidating British influence in the Baghdad Vilayet [province under the Ottoman Empire]Impact of Russian inactivity and unavailability on British operationsGovernment of India's response to the War Cabinet's decision regarding future administration and control of Mesopotamia and Arabia.The volume also contains:Distribution of troops on 24 March (ff 20-25)'Detailed statement of ration strength' of Force D on 25 March (ff 58-61) and on 1 April (ff 121-123)Appreciations [reports] from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia and Persia on 22 April (ff 74-75) and on 29 April (ff 131-133)Field return for Force D showing number of personnel, animals, weapons, and transport vehicles (ff 139-153).A summary and index to the contents of this volume can be found at the start of IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3274.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 158; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-156; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
158. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 34. PART II. (From 16th to 31st May 1917).’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 31 May 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: letters, telegrams, notes, reports, tables, and memoranda.An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found at IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3276. The volume concerns:Appreciations [reports] and intelligence summaries from the Directorate of Military OperationsTwo diaries of information from 20 April 1917 and 21 April 1917 covering: floods; inland water transport; Red Cross launches; the convalescent depot at Amarah [al-Amarah]; aviation; medical affairs; war gifts to Mesopotamia; and judicial administration in the Occupied Territories of IraqA description of the events leading up to the capture of SamarraReinforcements for Force DThe ammunition supplyMovements of Turkish [Ottoman] and Russian troopsPlan for the administration of Baghdad and Basrah [Basra]Reports from the Royal Flying Corps of machines in service and pilots availableProvision and movements of river craftProgress reports on railway constructionsLists of sick and woundedReplacement of Egyptian labourers in Mesopotamia by Indian Labour Corps divisions or Prisoners of WarPunitive measures against tribesmen near SamarraThe strength of the YazidisInformation concerning relations between Turks and Russians, including information that an armistice was arrangedThe health of drafts sent to India for despatch to Mesopotamia.The following tables appear:Troops and tonnage carried up and down the Tigris and arrival and discharge of vessels at Basrah on folios 7-9 and 96-97Ration strength of Force D on folios 41-44, 57-59, and 107-110Distribution of the Turkish Army on folios 88-89 and 151-152Strength of Force D on folios 116-130.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 171; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-169; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
159. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 35. PART I. (From 1st to 15th June 1917).’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 June 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: letters, telegrams, notes, reports, tables, and memoranda.An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found at folios 3-10. The volume concerns:Appreciations [reports] and intelligence summaries from the Directorate of Military Operations dated 3 June 1917 (folios 47-48); 10 June 1917 (ff 144-145)Two diaries of information from 12 May 1917 (ff 73-83) and 19 May 1917 (ff 147-156) covering: climate and floods, inland water transport, aviation, and medical affairsLists of the sick and woundedReinforcements for Force DMovements of Turkish [Ottoman] and Russian troopsReports from the Royal Flying Corps of machines in service and pilots availableProvision and movements of river craftProgress of railway constructions and future railway policyPunitive measures against tribesmen near SamarraSending time-expired Egyptian labourers to IndiaSupplies of guns, howitzers, horses, and supply shipsRelations with Arab tribes and formation of Arab Labour CorpsCommunications by river and railwayEyewitness statements regarding the killing of British wounded by Turkish soldiersOrganisation of the Port Administration and Conservancy DirectorateA report from Brigadier General Sir George Buchanan, Director of Port Administration and River Conservancy concerning works to be carried out to improve the rivers (ff 100-120)A discussion about sending confidential informationForecast of Russian intentions.The following tables appear:Distribution and composition of Force D, including details of: lines of communication; general organisation; units captured at Kut-al-Amarah [Al-Kut]; and names of General Officers and Brigade Commanders (ff 11-30)State of supplies (ff 57-59, 87-89, 161-163, 176-177)Distribution of the Turkish Army (ff 65-66, 167-168)Ration strength of Force D (ff 70-72, 125-127, 127-130, 155-156)Report of troops and tonnage carried up and down the Tigris (ff 92-95, 174-176)List of captured arms, ammunition, and material received at Ordnance Depots from 1 January 1917 to 31 March 1917 (ff 191-204).Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 211; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-209; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
160. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 36 PART I. (From 1st to 15th July 1917.)’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 July 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, tables, and memoranda, containing instructions and reports.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at folios 3-13 and a summary of the contents can be found at folio 14. The volume mostly relates to:Reinforcements and labour requirements of Force DSupplies for Force D, including: coal, animals, river craft, fodder, land transport, rations, weapons, ammunition, and timberLists of sick and wounded soldiersStaff appointments and recruitment processesUpdates from the Euphrates line, especially at Sinn-al-Zibban [Qaryat Sinn adh Dhibban]Plans to cut Turkish [Ottoman] telegraph linesTurkish forces: movements; intelligence from deserters; potential financial difficulties; and distributions for week ending 12 July (ff 146-147)Russo-Turkish operations near Bistan [Bestane], Penjvin [Baynjiwayn] and in the Caucasus regionDiscussions about the suitability of locomotive engines supplied by the Federate Malay StatesReports on railway and river traffic, as well as on railway constructionDiscussions about the responsibility and functions of the Financial Adviser to the General Officer Commanding, Force D, and about financial administration of Force D in generalReports from the Royal Flying CorpsDiscussions about the establishment of a Civil Administration in Mesopotamia, especially at Baghdad, and how that body would work with Her Majesty’s Government and the General Officer Commanding, Force DDiscussions about reinforcements required for Force D to hold their position in the Baghdad Vilayet and the implications of this regarding other troops potentially being sent to EgyptIntelligence regarding a conference at Aleppo, attended by high-level German and Turkish military commanders, concerning a potential offensive on the Syrian and Mesopotamian frontsPotential for Russian troops to withdraw from Northern Persia [Iran]Intelligence about the status and plans of Turkish and German troops in Baalbek, Syria, Palestine, and Mesopotamia.The volume also contains:Distribution and composition of Force D, including details of: lines of communication units; general organisation; units captured at Kut-al-Amarah [Al-Kut]; and names of General Officers and Brigade Commanders (ff 15-34)Appreciations [reports] from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia on 1 July (ff 40-41), 8 July (ff 118-119), and 15 July (ff 217-220)Distribution of troops for Force D on 3 June (f 50) and 17 June (ff 135-139)Two diaries of information from 9 June (ff 70-78) and 16 June (ff 181-192) covering: climate and floods; aviation; inland water transport; local produce; medical affairs; and river conservancy mattersJoint report (ff 198-201) by Messrs Keatinge, Langer and Angell, regarding outstanding indents [official orders for goods], in response to a note by the Chief Store-keeper, Mesopotamian Railway. The report is forwarded with comments by Thomas Ryan, Secretary, Indian Munitions Board (ff 196-198).Whilst the volume contains copies of earlier material dating from April 1917 onwards, the bulk of the material dates from July 1917.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 222; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-220; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
161. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 36. PART II. (From 16th to 31st July 1917.)’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 31 July 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, tables, and memoranda.An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found at the start of IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3280.The volume concerns:Military personnel issues, including pay increases and recruitmentReinforcements for Force DThe supply of food, vehicles, animals, construction materials, weapons, ammunition, and other items to Force DDiscussions of a possible British advance beyond Baghdad, including logistical issues and the need for a coordinated Anglo-Russian offensive in MesopotamiaDiscussions of the unreliability of Russian military supportRailway construction in MesopotamiaIntelligence on the location of Turkish [Ottoman] and German units and commandersIntelligence regarding the movement of airplane engines and pilots to MosulRiver and railway traffic in MesopotamiaArrivals to and departures from the port of BasraProblems with the unloading of ships at Basra and proposals for the construction of a new port near the cityFighting between Turkish and Russian forces near Penjevin [Baynjiwayn], and the Russian withdrawal from the areaDiscussion of the creation of a French Consulate at BaghdadRussian plans for an offensive towards Mosul, under the command of General BaratovDiscussion of a pan-Turanic organization’s pamphlet found in Medina, including a proposal by the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf to use this publication for ‘propaganda purposes’.The volume also contains:Ration strength of Force D on 16 June 1917 (ff 13-16), 30 June 1917 (ff 49-50), and 7 July 1917 (ff 108-110)Distribution and composition of Force D including details of lines of communication, 24 June 1917 (ff 18-22), 1 July 1917 (ff 123-128), and 8 July 1917 (ff 194-198)Artillery rounds held and used by Force D, 15 July 1917 (f 26) and 22 July 1917 (f 121)Distribution of the Turkish Army, 17 July 1917 (ff 30-31), 24 July 1917 (ff 115-117), and 31 July 1917 (ff 202-203)Report of number of pilots and aircraft available for service in Mesopotamia, 19 July 1917 (f 66) and 26 July 1917 (f 152)Weekly return of sick and wounded for the week ending 30 June 1917 (ff 68-69) and 7 July 1917 (ff 176-177)Detailed statement of ration strength of Force D on 23 June 1917 (ff 73-76)Personnel received by the Director of Railways in June 1917 (ff 154-157)Two diaries of information from 23 June 1917 (ff 34-46) and 30 June 1917 (ff 80-89) covering: the climate of Mesopotamia; medical issues affecting Force D; a malarial survey of Baghdad; local produce purchased by Force D; river conditions in occupied Mesopotamia; activities of aircraft; and descriptions of Shia beliefs, history, and pilgrimages.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 205; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-203; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
162. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 37. PART I. (From 1st to 15th August 1917.)’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 August 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, memoranda, letters, and tables.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at folios 3-15 and a summary of the contents can be found at folio 16. The volume concerns:The supply of food, animals, construction materials, weapons, and other items to Force DRiver and railway traffic in MesopotamiaRailway construction in MesopotamiaArrivals to and departures from the port of BasraProblems with the unloading of ships at BasraProposal for the transfer of men from the Disciplinary Labour Corps into a free Labour CorpsDiscussion of British strategy in Mesopotamia, including current policy of securing control of the Baghdad Vilayet, and inability to take offensive action without Russian supportRecruitment of Arab prisoners of war in India ‘to serve the Sheriff [Sharīf] of Mecca’Intelligence concerning movements of Turkish [Ottoman], German, and Austrian unitsIntelligence concerning German construction of a railway ‘towards Mosul’Discussion of the creation of a French Consulate at BaghdadFinancial administration of Force D and the territory occupied by the British in MesopotamiaProposal for forming a new division of Force DIntelligence concerning Russian movements in the Caucasus and mutiny within the Russian armyIntelligence concerning Kurdish movements and attacks on Russian troopsShortage of medical officers.The volume also contains:Distribution and composition of Force D including details of lines of communication, commanding officers, and units captured at Kut-al-Amarah [Al-Kut] (ff 3-36)Distribution of Force D including details of lines of communication, 15 July 1917 (ff 123-127), 22 July 1917 (ff 216-220)Distribution of the Turkish Army, 7 August 1917 (ff 147-148), 14 August 1917 (ff 226-227)Detailed statement of ration strength of Force D on 30 June 1917 (ff 39-42), 7 July 1917 (ff 175-178)Ammunition held and used by Force D, 29 July 1917 (ff 42-43), 4 August 1917 (ff 123-124)Strength return of Force D dated 2 June 1917 (ff 45-61)Ration strength of Force D on 14 July 1917 (ff 67-69), 21 July 1917 (ff 152-154), 28 July 1917 (ff 234-236)Report of number of pilots and aircraft available for service in Mesopotamia, 2 August 1917 (ff 81-82), 9 August 1917 (f 179)Two diaries of information from 7 July 1917 (ff 90-107) and 21 July 1917 (ff 193-194) covering: climate and floods; local produce; Inland Water Transport; medical affairs; military government; the Directorate of Works; the YMCA in Baghdad; and the crash of a German planeWeekly return of sick and wounded for the week ending 14 July 1917 (f 114) and 21 July 1917 (ff 187-188).Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 242; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-240; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
163. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 37. PART II. (From 16th to 31st August 1917).’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 31 August 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: letters, telegrams, notes, reports, tables, and memoranda.An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found at IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3282. The volume concerns:Appreciations [reports] and intelligence summaries from the Directorate of Military Operations dated 19 August 1917 (ff 53-55), 26 August 1917 (ff 162-164)One diary of information dated 28 July 1917 (ff 84-86) covering climate, floods, and the Christians of MesopotamiaReinforcements for Force DMovements of Turkish [Ottoman], Russian, and German troops and German officials, including General Erich von FalkenhaynReports from the Royal Flying Corps of machines in service and pilots availableProvision and movements of river craftProgress of railway constructions and future railway policy, including Turkish [Ottoman] railway constructionThe composition of the committee of enquiry into port congestion at Basrah [Basra]A scheme to stimulate cultivation by clearing the canals of the Euphrates area and providing advances of seed and cashInvestigation of postal arrangementsA fodder production scheme using local labourersA discussion of whether the French Consul at Basrah, Monsieur Roux, should be permitted to use a cipher and locked bag, and proceed beyond BasrahTrade between Basrah and BaghdadThe appointment of Sir Percy Cox as Civil Commissioner, MesopotamiaA proposal to terminate the agreement between HM Government and the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association employing Edmund Candler as Official EyewitnessA new Indian General HospitalThe appointment of R G Garrow as recognised irrigation expert for Mesopotamia.Proposed co-operation with the Russians.The following tables appear:Distribution of troops 29 July 1917 Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force (ff 8-12)Weekly return sick and wounded w/e 28 July 1917 (ff 23-24), 4 August 1917 (f 72)Ration strength of MEF 14 July 1917 (ff 26-29), 21 July 1917 (ff 102-105), 4 August (ff 136-138), 28 July 1917 (ff 181-184), 11 August (ff 199-201)State of supplies 18 August 1917 (ff 69-71 and 88-89), 25 August (ff 188-190 and 210-211)Distribution of the Turkish Army 21 August 1917 (ff 75-77), 28 August 1917 (ff 194-195)Strength return for IEF D 30 June 1917 (ff 118-135)Monthly distribution report of motor vehicles 1 July 1917 (ff 202-207).The file also contains a ‘Report on the conservancy of the Shatt-el-Arab [Shatt al-Arab] River from the Port of Basra to the Persian Gulf’ by Brigadier-General George Buchanan, Director of Port Administration and Conservancy, dated 22 March 1917, including nine maps of the Shatt-el-Arab River, the port of Basra, Mohammerah [Khorramshahr] bar, and the channel from Fao [Al-Faw] down the river.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 262; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. Multiple additional mixed foliation/pagination sequences are also present in parallel; these numbers are printed.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
164. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 38. Pt 1 & 2. (From 1st to 30th September 1917).’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 30 September 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: letters, telegrams, notes, reports, tables, and memoranda. An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found at IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3282. The volume concerns:Appreciations [reports] and intelligence summaries from the Directorate of Military Operations dated 2 September 1917 (ff 59-61); 9 September (ff 159-161); 16 September (ff 253-254); 23 September (ff 339-341); 30 September (ff 494-496)Two diaries of information dated 18 August (ff 181-182) and 15 August (ff 219-220) covering climate and floodsReinforcements for Force D, including supplies of medical officers, horses, mules, Chinese artisans, and remountsMovements of Turkish [Ottoman] and Russian troopsReports from the Royal Flying Corps of machines in service and pilots availableStaff appointments for Force D, particularly in command of heavy artilleryRailway construction and managementSurrender of a Turkish detachment at Diwaniyah [Ad Diwaniyah]The administration of MesopotamiaViews on a combined British and Russian offensiveA proposed local cultivation schemeThe removal of certain vessels from the list of hospital shipsTrade between India and BaghdadThe possibility of finding a new ‘Eyewitness’ reporter to replace Edmund CandlerA proposed re-organisation of the Directorate of Port Administration and ConservancyA discussion of timing shipping from India to avoid congestionThe search for a suitable officer to act as irrigation adviser for Sir Percy CoxChanges in the staffing of the Turkish armyThe unsuitability of the Chinese artisans and their return to IndiaThe provision of Ford vans in place of mulesInformation concerning General Erich von Falkenhayn’s army.The following tables appear:Distribution and composition of Force D, including details of: lines of communication; general organisation; and names of General Officers and Brigade Commanders (ff 19-30)Enemy material captured from 1 April to 30 June 1917 (ff 43-48)Weekly return of the sick and wounded dated 11 August 1917 (ff 68-69), 18 August (ff 77-78), 25 August (ff 132-133), 8 September (ff 412-413), 1 September (ff 418-419)Ration strength of Force D on 4 August 1917 (ff 81-87), 18 August (ff 116-120), 25 August (ff 211-215, 437-443), 11 August (ff 234-241), 1 September (ff 288-291, 459-465), 18 September (ff 376-383), 8 September (ff 419-423)State of supplies on 1 September 1917 (ff 87-89, 109-110), 8 September (ff 186-189), 15 September (ff 270-272), 22 September (ff 362-365), 2 September (ff 409-410)Distribution of the Turkish army on 4 September 1917 (ff 94-96), 11 September (ff 191-194, 202-204), 18 September (ff 278-281), 25 September (ff 367-370)Distribution of Force D on 19 August 1917 (ff 101-108)Monthly distribution report of motor vehicles 1 August 1917 (ff 399-405)Strength return for Force D 28 July 1917 (ff 466-485).Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 498; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-496; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
165. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 39. (From 1st to 15th October 1917.)’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 October 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, tables, and memoranda, containing instructions and reports.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at folios 3-8. The volume mostly relates to:Reinforcements and labour requirements of Force DStaff recruitment and appointmentsSupplies for Force D, including: ammunition, rations, animals, weapons, petrol, and ambulancesLists of sick and wounded soldiersInformation about prisoners of warTurkish [Ottoman] forces: intelligence from prisoners and deserters; movements; commanders; plans; estimated strength and distribution on 30 September (ff 74-75); and distribution for week ending 2 October (ff 56-58) and week ending 9 October (ff 201-203)Intelligence on German troops’ movements and plansInformation regarding the construction of Turkish railways in MesopotamiaReports on the recent action at Ramadie [Ramadi]Questions about the use of sailing craft to convey military stores to MesopotamiaDiscussions concerning ‘false’ and ‘exaggerated’ Turkish and German communiquésInformation on freight transported by shipsDiscussions about strategic planning and development of railways and ports in Mesopotamia, including establishment of a Transportation CommissionHigh demand for personnel across multiple departmentsProblems concerning soldiers not returning from leaveReports and discussions about Force D’s air forcesContinued employment of Edmund Candler as Official EyewitnessFinancial administration of Force DCommunications regarding changes to the order of battleRe-organisation of troops and creation of new troopsTransport provisions for the movements of troopsPort at Basrah [Basra] traffic reports and details of improvement worksPossible establishment of dairies in Mesopotamia and a woollen mill at BaghdadDiscussions about destruction and/or loss of animals [referred to as ‘wastage’]Potential transfer of Russian divisions to Force D and discussions about Russian plans in Persia [Iran].The volume also contains:Distribution of Force D, including details of the lines of communication units and names of General Officers and Brigade Commanders (ff 9-22)Distribution of troops for Force D on 9 September (ff 138-146), 16 September (ff 176-185), and 23 September (ff 293-302)Appreciations [reports] from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia and Persia on 7 October (ff 154-156) and 14 October (ff 285-287).There is a discrepancy between the content of the appendices 261-263 as described in the summary at folio 225, and the content of the actual appendices 261-263 as they appear at folios 229-230.Whilst the volume contains copies of earlier material dating from September 1917 onwards, the bulk of the material dates from October 1917.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 308; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. Additional mixed foliation/pagination sequences are also present in parallel between ff 3-306; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
166. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 39. Pr II (From 16th to 31st October 1917.)’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 31 October 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, tables, and memoranda, containing instructions and reports.The volume mostly relates to:Reinforcements and labour requirements of Force DStaff recruitment and appointmentsSupplies for Force D, including: rations, weapons, animals, ammunition, and land vehicles (especially cars, motorcycles, and ambulances)Information about deserters and prisoners of warLists of sick and wounded soldiersTurkish [Ottoman] forces: movements and locations of regiments; movements of commanders; planned offensives; and distributions for week ending 19 October (ff 16-19), week ending 23 October (ff 150-152), and week ending 30 October (ff 266-268)Railways construction progress, as well as materials required and transported for railway constructionDemand for personnel across multiple departmentsArrangements for converting vessels to run on oil instead of coal, or coal instead of oilArrangements for supplies between India and MesopotamiaDetails of tonnage [amounts of cargo] transported on shipsSupplies and arrangements for cultivation and agriculture schemes in MesopotamiaDiscussions about woollen mills at BaghdadRemit and personnel of the newly established Transport CommissionGerman forces: weapons; location of regiments; planned offensives; and movements of General Oskar von Niedermayer [also rendered in text as Neidermeyer] in Persia [Iran]Status of Force D in the vicinity of Jebel Hamrin [Silsilat Jibal Hamrin?] and the Dialha [Diyala, river]Discussions about places of worship for Sikhs in Basrah [Basra]Traffic reports for railway and river transportationDiscussions about oil rights in Bahrein [Bahrain], Koweit [Kuwait], and Mesopotamia.The volume also contains:Appreciations [reports] from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia and Persia on 21 October (ff 99-101) and 28 October (ff 219-220)Distribution of troops for Force D on 30 September (ff 170-174).Whilst the volume contains copies of earlier material dating from September 1917 onwards, the bulk of the material dates from October 1917.The volume number originally printed on the front cover of the volume was ‘41’, but this has been crossed out and ‘39’ has been written in blue pencil. ‘P[a]r[t] II’ has also been added in red pencil.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 284; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-282; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
167. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 4. (November 26th to December 9th, 1914).’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D between 26 November and 9 December 1914. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: correspondence; telegrams; reports; orders; despatches; and instructions.A summary of the contents of this volume is pasted on the leading flyleaf, under the subtitle ‘Advance to Qurneh [Al Qurnah]’:‘Reconnaissance to Qurneh’‘17th Brigade disembarked completed 6th December’‘Sanction of Secretary of State to occupation of Qurneh sent to Force D’‘Telegraphic communication completed to Basrah’ ‘Force landed below Qurneh’‘Action as [at] Mazaira’ah [Al Muzayra‘ah, also written as Muzaira’ah, as quoted below]’‘Camels of Force “D” ordered back to India’‘2nd Action at Muzaira’ah’‘3rd Action at Muzaira’ah’‘Occupation of Qurneh’‘Surrender of Turkish [Ottoman] Troops’.The file also contains mentions of the reluctance of some of the Muslim soldiers to fight in a country containing sacred sites.A summary of contents for the previous volumes is pasted on the inside front cover.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the first folio with 1 and terminates at the last folio with 45; these numbers are printed, and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.The foliation sequence does not include the front and back covers, nor does it include the leading and ending flyleaves.Dimensions: 21x33cm
168. ‘WAR DIARY. ARMY HEADQUARTERS, INDIA. […] I.E.F. “D”. Volume 41. PART I. (From 1st to 31st December 1917).’
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 December 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: letters, telegrams, notes, reports, tables, and memoranda.An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found at folios 3-17. The volume concerns:Appreciations [reports] and intelligence summaries from the Directorate of Military Operations dated 2 December 1917 (ff 49-50), 9 December (ff 156-157)Reinforcements for Force D, including supplies of medical officers, horses, mules, and railway staffCaptured arms and ammunition (ff 159-165)Movements of Turkish [Ottoman] and German troopsExchange of prisoners with Turks at BerneSupplies to Force D, including the problems of supplying petrolAttack on the enemy on 3 December on Jebel Hamrin [Jabal Hamrin]The possibility of postponing the dredging of the Shatt-el-Arab [Shatt al-Arab]Transfer of the 7th division in Mesopotamia to EgyptOccupation of Qurah Tappah [Qarah Tapah], Qizil Robat [As Sa‘diyah], and KhanaqinSupply and transport shipsReports from the Royal Flying Corps of machines in service and pilots availableConcerns over supplies reaching the Turks from Koweit [Kuwait]A scheme to supply frozen meat to British troopsCorrespondence between Mr A Monteath and the Admiralty on the subject of the Thomson Cherry Commission enquiring into shipping between India and MesopotamiaA proposal to form a Directorate of IrrigationPost offices and returned lettersSentences given to members of the Ghadr [Ghadar] party captured in Baghdad.The following tables appear:Distribution and composition of Force D, including details of: lines of communication; general organisation; and names of General Officers and Brigade Commanders (ff 18-31)Ration strength of Force D on 3 November 1917 (ff 42-46), 17 November (ff 111-113), 10 November 1917 (ff 137-140)Weekly return of sick and wounded dated 17 November (f 65), 24 November (ff 152-153)Distribution of the Turkish Army on 4 December 1917 (ff 70-72), 11 December 1917 (ff 180-182)Distribution of Force D on 11 November 1917 (ff 76-80)State of supplies on 1 December 1917 (ff 86-87, 116-117), 8 December (ff 187-189), 9 December (ff 268-269)Monthly distribution report of motor vehicles on 1 October 1917 (ff 128-134)Strength return for Force D on 27 October 1917 (ff 97-99), 9 December 1917 (ff 190-192), 3 November (ff 262-264).Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 276; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-274; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm