Frank Swannell Diaries: Part I
Diaries of Frank Cyril Swannell Learn more.
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BC Archives MS-0392 - Box 1, Volume 4-5
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big men seem to be able to throw just 5 yds further than the Germans. We find the "Mills" the best one to use. We have thrown nearly 20,000 in the last 10 days without an accident. It is the only bomb a man can hold in his hand and throw when opportunity offers. It appears that the "Cricket Balls" are unsuitable for wet weather as they often fail to ignite when wet. Another point noticed was that the Germans were unable to throw bombs unless they stood on the firing-step, thus exposing their heads + shoulders. It was found advisable to send a Lewis gun or a maxim with a bombing party, so that the moment the enemy set up to throw their bombs the gun could open on them. One day the German bombers were absolutely paralysed by this means.
BC Archives MS-0392 Box 1 Volume 4 / FRANK SWANNELL PAPERS / Diary and enclosures, 1915