SAVED THE “JOCKS.”

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 16020, 11 September 1915, Page 2 (Supplement)

SAVED THE “JOCKS.”

ARTILLERY'S GOOD PRACTICE. Driver T. Scott, of the 72nd Battery R.P.A., in a. letter, says: — While I am writing this the "Jocks" are on the way down to the trenches, and they are going swinging along with the pipes and drums; and don't they sound well. A few months ago, while in a battle on a different part of the firing line from where we are now, we had the Huns on the run, but they dropped in a good position on the top of a ridge. If we could have taken that ridge we would have been all right, but it was said the Germans were too many for us. They were about six to one, and we could not get reinforcements in time.' So the artillery had to cover the infantry while they dug themselves in. It had then turned dark. Next day was a bit lively, and at night the Huns made a counter-attack. We were in a very good position, and our battery ranged every inch of the ground in front of them while it was light, and at night when they made the attack, it was like being — The order came that German reinforcements were coming up a certain road, and, having it properly ranged, we simply mowed them down with our guns. Then up came, word that the attack had been beaten off, and we were glad, as we were all dog tired. Next day our battery received a present of a box of cigarettes and tobacco from the "Jocks." and they said that if it had not been for our guns they would all have gone under. Ever since that night when going down to the trenches as they pass our guns the " Jocks" would ask if the old battery was stopping in action. If it was '• Yes," they all seemed pleased, but if not, they seemed to be downhearted. So you can tell we are well known to that regiment. On one occasion while our fellows were making an attack there were so many rounds fired out of one of our guns that the mat, which is wrapped round the buffer of the gun as a protection from shrapnel, took fire,- so you will have an idea how hot she wis. Anyone could hive boiled water for a masking of tea on her