Topic: AIF - DMC - British
The First Battle of Gaza
Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917
Egyptian Expeditionary Force McCheane Letter 5 March 1917
McCheane Letter 5 March 1917.
The following is a transcription of the McCheane Letter of 5 March 1917 from the War Diary of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force detailing the plan for issuing Hotchkiss Guns in anticipation for the First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917.
General Officer Commanding
Desert Column
Secret
BCGS
The Anzac Mounted Division cannot be persuaded that we are not withholding Hotchkiss guns from them.
As you know, there were not sufficient guns received for issue to 3 Brigades, so issue was made, under General Headquarters Instructions, to 6th and 22nd Mounted Brigades, the remainder being used for odd services, eg School of Instruction.
Guns to complete both Mounted Divisions are now on the sea.
Under your GS8815/ 5 February 1917, 9 guns each are being withdrawn from the 6th and 22nd Brigades, so that each Mounted Brigade may have 3 for training purposes.
Will you kindly notify Anzac Mounted Division accordingly.
Signed M McCheane, Colonel,
DDOS
5 March 1917
War Diaries
All War Diaries cited on this site should be read in conjunction with the Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy which may be accessed at:
Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy
Further Reading:
British Forces, EEF, Roll of Honour
The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917
The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, Allied Forces, Roll of Honour
The Palestine Campaign, 1917 - 1918
Battles where Australians fought, 1899-1920
