Talking of Vimy Ridge

1917

Very strenuous day in Orderly Room & [illegible]. 1 shell dropped in [illegible]. USA declared war.

Apr 7. Sat. Reparations for attack going on well.

8. Easter Sunday. A glorious bright fresh sunny day - Memorable in many ways. Officers talking to their men - last instructions, last details - next of kin re - all the final preparations - a wonderful sight amongst the columns of the big breech pres. [illegible] flaying - Bns all round us - The place thick with soldiers - Sunset light on the [illegible] - tents dyed dark red with much stain - groups of helmeted men round bonfires - singing "The long long trail". High spirits & good comradistry. (Lt Brown formerly Scout NCO rejoined us here & was killed next day - a very good chap). At 9 pm. they all march off. Major Latta stays behind with me & his adjt.

Apl 9. Monday - at 5 a.m. (4 am our time) Major Latta & I got up & watched the battle panorama from the high ground.

BC Archives, MS-2879
Box 83, File 1
CREASE FAMILY
"Diary of the War", diary and scrapbook of Arthur Douglas Crease. 1915-1919.