The 36th (Ulster) Division in the German Spring Offensive, March 1918.

The 36th (Ulster) Division in the German Spring Offensive, March 1918

By Michael Nugent

Having embarked for the Western Front in October 1915, by March 1918, the 36th (Ulster) Division bore little resemblance to the volunteer Division which left these shores with such bright hopes. Action at the Somme, Messines, Langemarck, and Cambrai had thinned out the originals and with conscription ruled out in Ireland, the ranks were filled with men posted from mostly English Regiments and conscripts. Added to this was the reorganisation of Infantry battalions across the British Army in early 1918, which saw the number of Infantry battalions in a division reduced from twelve to nine.
In March 1918, the Division was part of General Sir Hubert Gough’s Fifth Army and based just opposite the French town of St Quentin. They met the full force of the Kaiserschlacht (Kaiser’s Battle) on a foggy Spring morning in an unfamiliar defensive concept, with many units being surrounded before they were aware what was happening. There followed a fighting rearguard for a week, featuring many acts of heroism and resulting in two Victoria Crosses being awarded to men of the Division.
The talk will focus on firstly, factors which led to the Division being in position opposite St Quentin on that fateful morning and will then develop by following the Division in its desperate rearguard action over a distance of 105 miles. Actions of importance during the battle will be examined as will instances of great bravery. A fascinating story and one never fully examined previously. In the words of Brigadier General Sir James Edmonds, author of the Official History of the War, during the Spring Offensive, ‘the Fifth Army bent, but it never broke.’ The talk will focus on one vital component of Fifth Army at that time.

Michael Nugent has written four books on the Great War. The first dealt with the 2nd battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers at the Battle of Festubert, May 1915, and the second on the 36th (Ulster) Division in the German Spring Offensive, March 1918. The third, ‘A Bad Day I Fear’ examines the role of the Irish Divisions at the Battle of Langemarck in August 1917. The fourth, in collaboration with Nigel Henderson, is titled Killester Garden Village. The Lives of Great War Veterans and Their Families. He continues to research service personnel for relatives and other interested parties.

VENUE: Pearse Street Library, Dublin.

Doors Open At 13.40 For A 14.00 Start.
Members And Non-Members Of The Western Front Association Are Equally Welcome. Any New Visitors Are Guaranteed A Friendly Atmosphere And A Warm Welcome From A Group Of Like-Minded Enthusiasts.
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