A Special Contribution From
Phil Reese





THE DIARY

OF

BUGLER WAYNE DESILVEY



transcribed and edited by


His Nephew, Phil Reese



That which follows is a transcription of the diary kept by Wayne W. DeSilvey, 1st Bugler of Company I, 112th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division, serving with the American Expeditionary Forces in France during World War I. The complete diary covers the period from January 1, 1918, through April 15, 1919. The diary is transcribed as written by Bugler DeSilvey except for the insertion of punctuation and minor wording changes necessary for purposes of clarity. All editorial comments are enclosed in brackets [...].

Bugler DeSilvey, a native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was wounded and gassed twice during his battlefield experience. His second wounding occurred on November 11, 1918, the last day of the war. And while he recovered from his wounds sufficiently to return home to Harrisburg, he eventually died as a result of the two gassings he suffered.





JANUARY, 1918



[The geographic location at the start of the diary is Camp Hancock, Georgia, near the city of Augusta.]



Tuesday New Years Day was ushered in in fine style. The various bands were out celebrating the entrance of the New Years on Pennsylvania Avenue. Stood Revelie at the usual time. Had quite a breakfast. Asked for permission to visit Augusta, permission granted as it being a legal holiday. While in Augusta the entire Company placed under quarantine for measles. Returned to camp late in the evening but not allowed within the bounds of the Co. Street. Slept in H Co.

Wednesday, Jan 2

Told by the Cap't of H Co. I could go to Augusta. Received pass from the Adjutant. Went to Augusta. Had dinner with Mr. & Mrs. Kress. The manager of Silver's 5&10c store. Returned to camp & reported to the Cap't of H Co.

Thursday, Jan 3

Asked for pass to go to Augusta, sent to Division Hdqs. Explained that my Co. was placed out of bounds and under quarantine on Jan 1st while I was visiting Augusta. Given a 24 hrs. pass by Major Thompson the Division Adjutant. Went to Augusta and visited the Strand movies. Saw the Spoilers. Discusted. Decided to return to camp which I did. Ran the gauntlet passed the Guard on the Co. street and returned to my respective Co. Street and to my quarters.

Friday, Jan 4th

At the sound of 1st Call tried to put my shoes on but found that I could not get them on, on account of my feet being swollen. Decided to write Senator Hardwick Senator of Georgia, also to Vance McCormick and May. [May was Bugler DeSilvey's wife] Wrote a letter to each one of the above in regards to a transfer from my present Co. to any other Co. in the Regiment. Mailed the letters the same evening to A Co. mail box. Found four new cases of measles in the Co. and various other Co's. Entire Reg. quarantine.

Saturday, Jan 5th

Stood Revellie at the usual time. Had an exceptional good mess to start the day off. Learned that they were going to have the first entire Divisional Dress Parade and Review this afternoon. Received several letters and this fountain pen. Saw two pugilistic artists mix it up at the head of the Co. Street. They were Pvts. Axe of Co. K. York Pa. & Pvt. White of Co. B. Tamagua Pa. Both old Eighth Reg. Men. White was the winner by K.O. route.

Sunday, Jan 6th

Stood revellie in a downpour of rain. Later on it cleared up in fine style. Moved to another tent, the men of my old tent put down over the hill in the measles camp. Nothing of interest going on. Wrote several letters home.

Monday, Jan 7th

Entire First Squad found to have either the measles or Typus [Typhus] Fever except myself. I was later detailed and put in charge of the C.P. [Convalescent Patients] for 35 days at the end of which the quarantine would be lifted. Moved my entire equipment to the Convalescent Patient's Ward.

Tuesday, Jan 8th

No revellie to stand for 35 days. Lucky boy am I. Under expert Physician's eagle eye for observation for Meningitis, Typhus, & Measles. Allowed all priviledges of writing which I was glad was not taken from the Ward.

Wednesday, Jan 9th

Received orders that some of the men in the Ward would be used for detail of which I was to take charge. Detail of 20 men and myself reported to Cap't Ryan an English Officer at the huge dry reservoir for filling in certain places in the reservoir which is used as the physical school and bayonet school. Officers training camp opened here today for 482 men to be chosen from the various Co. Rosters.

Thursday, Jan 10th

Serg't Green chosen as the man to represent Co. I at the officers training camp which was opened on the site of the old 1st Pa Cavalry camp yesterday. New schedule layed down for the entire 28th Division. This schedule to comprise a period of not more than 12 weeks of the most strenious training.

Friday, Jan 11th

Dull day over the entire camp this being due to the rain. Not much doing except writing of letters. Wrote home for some luxuries and stamps. Rain is very cold and naturally the day is dismal and full of gloom. Temperature is 4 above Zero.




Gen. Muir

Saturday, Jan 12th

General inspection and clean up day in general all over camp. Entire Division out for Review before Maj. General Muir. Washed up all of my clothing and had a general cleaning out of all the quarters in the entire ward.

Sunday, Jan 13

Terriffic wind storm over the entire camp, tents blown to the ground. We were forced to get out in our underwear in a terriffic gale and down pour of rain. Electric wires blown to the ground. Giant trees uprooted. The storm caused havoc everywhere imaginable.

Monday, Jan 14th

Received orders that I would report with a detail to fix and clean up the ruined Chautauqua Amusement tent. Reported and found it would take nearly 3 times as many men as I had. Tent located at the junction of the Wrightsboro & Division Road.

Tuesday, Jan 15th

Detailed again to the dry reservoir to erect modern trenches and a modern No Man's Land. We found this work very interesting. Busy Erecting wire entanglements, dummies and various traps.

Wednesday, Jan 16th

Reported to Cap't Ryan at the dry reservoir to finish work we started yesterday. Told to start work on a thousand inch rifle range. Later on, constructed modern parapets on the trenches. Received all my mail.

Thursday, Jan 17th

Reported again to Cap't Ryan at the Dry Reservoir. Erecting a hugh bayonet course and physical training grounds. Finished work on the reservoir. Received a letter from home with five stamps. Was very thankful for these. Bucky received an S.C.D. Discharge. [SCD = Service Connected Disability.]

Friday, Jan 18th

Learned today that the entire 112th Infantry Regiment was sent down over the hill into the measle camp. Called in by the Physician for an examination. Asked for a new pair of shoes.

Saturday, Jan 19th

Told by Cap't Detweiler not to report with any details unless I was given a pair of new shoes. Just layed around camp all day. Wrote several letters home. Received no mail, no candles available and completely out of stamps and money.

Sunday, Jan 20th

Regular weekly inspection of the Ward by General Muir, Lt. Col. Tilson, and Cap't Detweiler. Made application to Cap't Detweiler. Corp. Clark made a note of the same.

Monday, Jan 21st

Corporal Clark put directly in charge of the entire C.P. Ward. I was put in charge of the mess hall and the bath house. Seen that both places are in a strictly sanitary condition. Seen Cap't Detweiler personally in regards to a transfer from my present Co. To Battery D of the 108th Artillery. Told not to ask for transfer. Wrote May. Rec'd no mail.

Tuesday, Jan 22nd

Seen to the bath house detail and to the mess hall detail. Had quite an easy day of it. Wrote a poem. Received some mail from the Co. Together with a photo of a Roll of Honor of the Ridge Ave. M.E. Church [in Harrisburg, Pa.]. My name appearing on the same. No stamps.

Wednesday, Jan 23rd

Called down by Corporal Clark for the condition of the tent. Told him I had detailed 1 man for that work. Seen to the cleaning up of the mess hall and bath house. Rec'd 8 - 3c stamps. Immediately mailed May's letter. Received our rations which were to last us for 10 days.

Thursday, Jan 24th

Seen to the cleaning up of the Mess Hall and Bath House. Learned rope splicing. Started to make a rope ladder for Cap't Detweiler. Wrote a poem entitled An American Mothers Dream. [No poem by this title appears in DeSilvey's journal.]

Friday, Jan 25th

Severe rain storm over the entire area of the camp. Several tents swept away. Seen to the Mess Hall & Bath house cleaning. Rest of the Ward in quarters on account of the rain. Received no mail. Wrote May.

Saturday, Jan 26th

Storm continuing. No work for the rest of the Ward. Cleaned up Mess Hall and Bath House myself. Received word of a box of goodies on the road. Was exceedingly Happy.

Sunday, Jan 27th

Nothing doing except cleaning up camp for inspection. Cleaned up bath, latrine & Mess Hall. Layed around all day. Ideal spring day. Saw several preliminary bouts between Harry Kilburn and several other Philadelphia pugilistic artists. Enjoyed the sport as well as the spring day. Kilburn seem to be master of any of the other pugilists.

Monday, Jan 28th

Started new week fresh and strong in charge of a detail to build the new office in the rear of the mess hall. Was fortunate enough to see the new schedule for the first time. No mail.

Tuesday, Jan 29th

Started to blow up cold. Later it started to rain. It resembled a cloud burst the way it came down. Entire camp flooded. No work. Layed around all day long. Wrote several letters home.

Wednesday, Jan 30th

Quite a mean disagreeable day. Rained as usual. Some of the boys in spite of the rain hauld lumber enough to complete the office..3 truck loads was enough for the job. Received a box of eats but no mail.

Thursday, Jan 31st

Was told by the Physician that in 9 more days I could go back to my company if I wished to or I could remain there. Had quite an argument with Corporal Clark concerning a new pair of shoes. Received no mail.

FEBRUARY, 1918

Friday, Feb. 1st

Put in charge of a detail in the Dry Reservoir again. Reported to Cap't Ryan. Issued the old reliable tool to the boys. I mean the shovel. Dug new lines of trenches. Saw French and Eng. Instructing the American Officers in bayonet work. Officers were clumsy.

Saturday, Feb. 2nd

Still on detail at Dry Reservoir. Reported to Cap't Ryan. Saw very interesting manouver of the 28th Divisional Artillery on the Parade ground of the 111th Infantry. Saw for the first time a smoke screen and a curtain barrage. Afterward saw a general inspection on the field.

Sunday, Feb. 3rd

First school of French lesson at the Y.M.C.A. #76 of the 56th Infantry Brigade Officers in training above C.P. 28th Division detailed to training camp to receive instructions on trench digging.

Monday, Feb. 4th

Asked permission to wash clothing in the morning. Permission granted. Washed up every dirty rag I possessed in A.M. Asked for a detail to the Dry Reservoir in P.M. Reported to Cap't Ryan in P.M. with my detail. Saw French officers construct a miniature wire entanglement in record time of 12 minutes.

Tuesday, Feb. 5th

Asked for an insurance blank. Received the same. Filled out blank for $10,000 insurance policy in favor of May. Artillery on Artillery range firing at invisible targets. Saw aeroplanes deliver instructions. Also an arial manouver. Artillery receiving instructions by observation balloons. Getting 4 hits out of 5 shots an an invisible target.

Wednesday, Feb. 6th

Quarantine lifted today. Reported to the Co. Lecture by French on trench warfare at Big Theater.

Thursday, Feb. 7th

Drilled in bayonet fighting, also in stringent physical excersise. Put over a general course on trench and dummy bayonet work. Seemed to be very interesting work. Drilled also in bomb throwing, the proper and improper way.

Friday, Feb. 8th

Drilled in close order and extended order. Something new, two lines skirmish. Received instructions as a body on the trench course and general manouvers. Very interesting.

Saturday, Feb. 9th

General review of the 112th Infantry in the morning by Lt. Col. Of the Regiment. Review was in full field equipment and done first at quick time and then at double time. Furled all tents. Scoured pots and pans in P.M.

Sunday, Feb. 10th

Lonesome Sunday in Camp. Layed around most of the P.M. Went to the ward to see if there was any mail for me. Found none. Went to Augusta in the afternoon.

Monday, Feb. 11th

Stood revellie in morning at the regular time. After mess a detail to sweep and scrub mess hall. After scrubbing mess hall fell in with the company to drill. Went before the Regimental doctors at 10:30 A.M. and were inspected for measles. Received instructions in trench digging for the first time as a unit.

Tuesday, Feb. 12th

Abraham Linconl's birthday. Did not observe it as a military holiday. Kept very busy with drills in the A.M. and in Gas Mask lectures by Lieut Trollinger on the Co. Streets in the P.M. Progressed with our work on digging regimental trenches, took up positions exactly where we left off yesterday. Under observation and instructions of French officers.

Wednesday, Feb. 13th

At sound of the drill call fell in and were marched to the drill field while the band played at Regimental Hdqs. Put through a hard day of bayonet work on the various courses in the A.M. Half holiday in the P.M. Went on guard at the Divisional Quarter Master Warehouses and hay stacks.

Thursday, Feb. 14th

On guard at Warehouse No. 4. Assigned by command of the Officer of the guard to post No. 1. Quite hungry. Nothing available to eat but one slice of bread. Came off of guard at 5 P.M. Relieved by Co. I, 109th Inf.

Friday, Feb. 15th

Put through severe physical tests most of the morning. Over the top on the dummy course twice. Paid at 12:30 P.M. Took up our work on the trench digging in the P.M. as per schedule. Finished traverse and parapet and traverse.


Physical Training at Camp Hancock



Saturday, Feb. 16th

Told to prepare for our regular Sat. Morning inspection. Inspection completed and Regimental Review in the A.M. Half holiday in the P.M. Prepared to go on guard at the Regimental Guard House in the P.M. Informal Mount and relieved Co H from Guard Duty at 4:45 P.M.

Sunday, Feb. 17th

Lonesome Sunday in Camp Hancock. Co. I on guard. Helped Co. H police entire Regiment Area. Preparing for an inspection by Secretary of War, Newton D. Baker to take place this P.M. Went to Augusta, Ga. with Lee Warner in the P.M. Co. I relieved from guard duty by Co. K, 112 W.S. Inf. at 4:45 P.M. Had a fine supper in the New York Cafe. Went to the St. Johns church in the evening. Met Mr. Kress and rode to camp with him in his automobile after church.

Monday, Feb. 18th

Change in bugle schedule. Calls sounded fifteen minutes earlier. At the souund of drill call went to drill field. Put through gas mask drill. Learned sterilization of the entire mask. First time for drill on the Gas Mask. Later drilled on close order in Co. Formation. Digging fire step and paradose [an embankment along the back of a trench as to protect against fire from the rear] together with the birm in P.M. Trenches completed. Rained after recall.

Tuesday, Feb. 19th

Severe Gas Mask drill. Made to put on the mask in six seconds. Bayonet exhibition advancing under Artillery Barrage. Barrage laid down by entire brigade of the 28th Division Artillery. Started digging a new line of trenches in P.M. Wrote to May on both the 18th & 19th. Rec'd no mail.

Wednesday, Feb. 20th

Rigid Gas mask drill under Sgt Major Johnson the Battalion Gas N.C.O. in the A.M. Half holiday in the P.M. with a boxing tournament to take place at Division Hdqs. Tournament to consist of 200 bouts by various Ameture and Professional artists.

Thursday, Feb. 21st

On police duty in the Co. Mess Hall. Joined the Co. on the Gas drill after policing the Mess hall. Later drilled in both Co. And Battalion close order drills. Saw and heard the Divisional band for the first time. Band consists of 412 pieces. Drilled on the School of Musketry in the P.M.

Friday, Feb. 22nd

Formed at the head of the Co. Street at the sound of first call. Left the Co. Street for our Washington's Birthday Parade in Augusta. Left Camp at 10:30 A.M. Route Penna. Ave to Wash. Ave to Wrightsboro Rd. Wheeles Rd. To Millidgeville Rd. to Walton Way to 10th St. to Broad. Counter march on Broad to 13th St. to Walton Way to Wrightsboro Rd. to Camp.

Saturday, Feb. 23rd

Hiked by the Major to the Divisional Gas House and put through a room filled with Chlorine Gas to prove the efficiency of the American Gas Mask. Half holiday in the P.M.

Sunday, Feb. 24th

Gloomy Sunday in Camp. Saw an interesting Baseball Game between Co. G & Co. H, both teams from the 112th Inf. Co. G Victorious. Score 5 Co. G, 0 Co. H. Hart, an old Connie Mack man, twirled for Co. G.

Monday, Feb. 25th

Hiked to Divisional entrenchments for our first hitch of real trench living in the newly constructed 75 miles of entrenchments three mile from Camp. Arrived at entrenchments and went on duty in a downpoour of rain.

Tuesday, Feb. 26th

Division fatigue at the trenches in the huge dugouts. Works around make one think of a huge contractors business. Worked on hurdles and wicker work. Gathered lots of trailing Arbutus.

Wednesday, Feb. 27th

On Division fatigue working on obstacles of obstruction for a retreating Army to check the advancing enemy. Sent to the dentists for an exhibition of perfect upper teeth. Had my ears treated by Dr. White. Rec'd certificate and permission to attend boxing match at Augusta. Wagons placed late for 3 days hike.



Thursday, Feb. 28th

Started our hike. Excellent day for hiking. Hiked to Artillery range about 7 miles. Pitched pup tent camp. Had General Maneuvers. Saw effect of a Barrage in woods. Went in swimming in an old mill pond near a huge dam. Band gave an excellent concert. Entire 112th Inf went out on a night manouvers and trench digging. Seemed very much like a picnic.

MARCH, 1918

Friday, March 1st

Stood revellie in the camp of pup tents. Had breakfast and were told to fill our canteens for an all day hike. Struck camp at the sound of General. Fell in for a divisional maneuver. Saw several prominent movie artists posing for movies. Arrived at the same site for camp at 5:30 P.M. Went in swimming.

Saturday, March 2nd

Stood revellie, and had quite a breakfast. Struck camp at the sound of General. Rolled packs and started for camp Hancock. Arrived at Camp Hancock at 12 o'clock. Were met by several bands of the divisions.

Sunday, March 3rd

Lonesome Sunday in Camp Hancock. Furled all tents and washed clothing all A.M. Prepared to go on guard at Base Hospital at night.

Monday, March 4th

Came off guard and returned to Base hospital for a solution for Poison Oak. Rained all day long. Went to see the dentist in the P.M. Told to report back on Thursday A.M.

Tuesday, March 5th

Rolled packs and hiked to Division trenches. Out first experience under actual fighting conditions. Patrols out all night long. In the second line of resistance trenches. Stood [guard] too. Relieved at 8 P.M. Stood on guard in reserve trenches.

Wednesday, March 6th

Relieved at 9 A.M. from duty at the division trenches. Rolled packs and hiked back to camp. Enroute long term Georgia convicts at work on Wrightsboro Rd. Sec. Of State Lansing at artillery range under barrage fire. Visited trenches. Wrote May. Rec'd 1 letter.

Thursday, March 7th

Drilled hard all A.M. on close order drills. Over the Bayonet course. Preparing for Division and Regimental Guard duty. Put on Guard at Base Hospital from 6 P.M. to 7 A.M.

Friday, March 8th

Relieved from Guard duty at 7 A.M. Allowed to rest in the morning. Drilled in the P.M. with Co. L, 112 Inf.

Saturday, Mar 9th

Entire Division arranged early and passed in Review before Sec. Of State Lansing and Major Gen. Muir. Lansing expressed great satisfaction in the efficiency of the 28th Division or Penna. National Guard. My son W.W. Jr. Died. Did not receive word of it.

Sunday, March 10th

Lonesome Sunday in Camp Hancock. Heard the Bishop of the Diocese of Georgia preach a sermon on The three great sacrifices, Love, Happiness & Life.

Monday, March 11th

Drilled hard on the bayonet course and in extended order in the A.M. Selected as one of the players for the Regimental Push Ball team. Played a game before Sec. Of State Lansing in the P.M.

Tuesday, March 12th

Reported on Sick report with lame back received playing Push ball game. Unable to get out of bed. Layed in my tent all A.M. and P.M.

Wednesday, March 13

Still unable to get out of bed. Dr. Trollinger examined my back for torn muscles. Told to keep still and strapped all over my back with 3 inche adhesive tape. Had an exray picture of my back. Xray showed muscles torn. Wrote May. Weary & homesick.

Thursday, March 14

Still in bed with severe pain in my back. Wrote a letter to May. Nothing else of any importance. Baby buried and I am still ignorant of his birth.

Friday, March 15th

Reported on sick report. Reported on P. T. Squad. Drilling in P.T. in the A.M. Wrote to May and sent the dead and buried baby a post card. Sltill did not know of his death.

Saturday, March 16th

Received word of the baby's death and burial in a letter from May. Very heartbroken and home sick. Walked Co. Street all night long. Some one in the Co. Received the telegram and destroyed it in order to get even.

Sunday, March 17th

Very lonesome and homesick. Couldn't forget the dirty trick played on me by one of the officers of my Co. Can't get the baby out of my mind. Wrote to Mother, Father & May lamenting over the baby's death. And waiting for the time to get revenge.

Monday, March 18th

Baby still on my mind. Despondent over the ill fortune of myself and over the illness of my wife, also of the death of W.W. D. Jr.

Tuesday, March 19th

For some reason, can't quit worrying. Went to see Chaplain Hall for advice. Try my best to forget, but somehow I can't forget.

Wednesday, March 20th

Drilled in ranks and trying my best to soldier. Received a telegram from home stating that May was very very ill. Asked permission of My Captain for a furlough. Refused. Seen Lieut. Col. Gamble and rec'd recommendation for 8 days.

Thursday, March 21st

Received permission to go to Augusta. Went to Augusta and to the Western Union Telegraph office. Wired to the Sec. Of War Work for the P.R.R. [Pennsylvania Railroad] Employees in regard to my transportation. Did not hear from him. Went back to camp.

Friday, March 22nd

Attended Religious services at the Y.M.C.A. Hut. Heard Professor Delroy of Columbia University lecture on Hypnotism and Fakers.

Saturday,Mar 23rd

Went to Augusta to see about answer from Mr. Buzby. No ans. Went to see Washington American League Baseball club clean up 108 Field Artillery by the score of 7-0. Johnson twirled for Wash. Saw Gorman and Murphy go 15 rounds. Secured game for 112th Inf. from Clark griffith for Sat. one week, March 30.

Sunday, March 24th

Went to Division Hdqs. To see Walter Camp, Jr. Told to get the ball players out for practice. Washed clothing & wrote letters. Asked the various Co. Commanders for a list of promising base ball talent for a Reg. Team.

Monday, March 25th

Drilled two B.B. teams hard in teamwork and signal practice. Selected two teams, 1st & 2nd. Second team going at a lively pace. Selected Lieut. Smeltzer a Manager of the teams.

Tuesday, March 26th

Put the two teams in a real game for good practice work. Both teams going fine. Picked the best men of each team and put them together to work together.

Wednesday, March 27th

Feeling down hearted and worrying quite a lot over my ill luck. Went to practice to try and get it out of my mind, but no use. Did not pay much attention to the practice game.

Thursday, March 28th

Detailed for guard duty. Taken off on account of base ball practice. Stayed absent from baseball practice and all drills worrying about W.W. D's Jr. Death.

Friday, March 29th

Good Friday elsewhere but not in Camp Hancock. Put through very stiff practice and signal practice. Team chosen and told to report at Reg. Hdqs. 12 M Sat. To play Wash Amer.

Saturday, March 30th

Regular Sat. A.M. inspection. Washed cots and ticks to fill out the A.M. A line of wagons numbering 243 detailed to haul the base ball fans into the game between Washington Americans [and] U.S. 112th U.S. Inf. Johnson to pitch against Hart. Wittnessed one of the best games I ever saw. Wash 1 -- 112th 0. 16 innings.

Sunday, March 31st

Easter Sunday. Went to church and later prepared for hike to the Artillery range or combat range. Arrived at combat range at 7 P.M. Turned clocks back 1 hour.

APRIL, 1918

Monday, April 1st

Rained hard all morning while waiting to shoot a qualifying course on the combat range. Went on the combat range between showers at 1 o'clock. Record of platoons. First Platoon hit 59. Second Platoon hit 91. Third Platoon hit 59. Beny Kline the Co. comedian had rifle blow up in his face causing him to lose an eye.

Tuesday, April 2nd

Picked schrubs and hiked back to camp in a downpour of rain. Rather warm. Co. I made one of the best shooting records of any infantry unit in the Camp.

Wednesday, April 3rd

Fell in to be marched to the dry reservoir and drilled exceptionally hard in bayonet work over the Division course. Cap't Ryan instructing in the trench attacking. Made finest record in the Battallion.

Thursday, April 4th

Put over the Battallion Bayonet course on the 112th Inf. Drill ground several times in the A.M. Drilled hard in litter bearing and first aid work to the wounded in P.M. At mail call in the evening rec'd box from home and enjoyed the contents very much. Shared a great part with my comrades.

Friday, April 5th

Drilled in A.m. and prepared for a divisional guard mount. Formed guard mount at 4:15 P.M. Hiked to Division Quarter Master Corps. Assigned to Post #4.

Saturday, April 6th

Relieved from Guard Duty by Co. G 112th Inf. Attended Automatic Rifle school under instruction of Serg't Russell.

Sunday, April 7th

Received a letter from May and also one from Mother. On detail. Attended church at the Woodlawn Baptist Church, Augusta, Ga.

Monday, April 8th

At Co. Formation for drill many called for detail at the Powder magazine. Loaded and unloaded 30-ball cartridges all A.M. Half holiday in the P.M. Went to Augusta Ga. to see Pittsburg National League Club and the famous Athletics Amer. Play. Score 0-0, 5 innings, rain. Wrote several letters home.

Tuesday, April 9th

Hiked to Combat range and pitched a camp of Dod Tents on the hillside. Severe rain storm and wind. Sleeping and was woke up by rain hitting me in the face. Tent blown away.

Wednesday, April 10th

Very cloudy day suitable for going over range. Went over the course in A.M. at 1-2 and 300 yards. My score on the course of slow fire was 216 out of a possible 250. Went over the same course in rapid fire in the P.M.. Score in P.M. Rapid fire 36 out of 60.

Thursday, April 11th

Done marking on the rifle range all day and after finishing marking Went with heavy packs to the Combat range. Camped on hillside in rain storm at the combat range.

Friday, April 12th

Shot over the course for the second time at figure targets by Platoons. 1st Platoon score 114. 2nd Platoon 119. 3rd platoon 139. Broke camp and Hiked to the Co. Street. Wrote May in the evening.

Saturday, April 13th

56th Brigade detailed to the Rifle Range to erect breakers in rear of the range to stop stray bullets. Worked hard till Noon. Half holiday in the P.M.

Sunday, April 14th

General cleanup in the entire camp for inspection, a very busy day in the entire Division. Pay day. No pay.

Monday, April 15th

Name called for detail on Regiment at road. Constructing road between 111th and 112th Inf. Hauled clay and graded the entire road. Co. being inspected by Tuesday. Major Smathers.

Tuesday, April 16th

Detailed on the Road again. Worked on the 112th Inf. Road. Rolled packs in the evening and hiked to the division trenches for life in the trenches.

Wednesday, April 17th

Selected by Co. C for Headquarters Platoon to act as a runner and indeed was kept busy running all day and all night.

Thursday, April 18th

Relieved by Cos. K & L of 112 Inf. And went in rear of the reserve trenches, pitched pup tents, layed down to go to sleep. Call to Arms sounded at 10:20 P.M. Beat it double time to support trenches expecting attack.

Friday, April 19th

Relieved from support. Ate breakfast and marched into front line to prepare for Going Over The Top Manouvers. Zero hour set as 10:13 A.M. Went over the top under barrage. Good manouvers.

Saturday, April 20th

Arrived in camp at 4 A.M. Stood revellie at the regular time. Drilled hard in bayonet work in the bowl, also in physical training.

Sunday, April 21st

Appointed by Captain Jenkins Co I musician or Bugler. Went to woods for practice. Taught a class semiphore and Wigwag signals in the P.M.

Monday, April 22nd

Went with the Co. on a stiff hike. Hiked in heavy marching order over a very difficult route.

Tuesday, April 23rd

Practiced in the A.M. and had a half holiday in the P.M. Checked up all clothing and started issuing for our services Over Seas.

Wednesday, April 24th

Worked hard issuing clothing. Went to the woods for a practice of 45 minutes and then dismissed for the day. Blew Retreat and Taps.

Thursday, April 25th

Blew Revellie. Selected by Top Cutter for pistol practice on the pistol range in rear of 112 Inf. Camp. Score was 231 out of a possible 250. Not bad for my first experience.

Friday, April 26th

Checked up all servicable Q.M. Corps property and made note of the same. Sounded call for inspection. Inspection.

Saturday, April 27th

Serg't Tate, Supply Sgt, issuing several different articles including toilet articles and under clothing and socks.

Sunday, April 28th

Checked up all personal property and told to dispose of several articles. Sent home one box.

Monday, April 29th

Complete inventory of all Co. property taken. Co. I selected to go on guard duty. All men of German descent sent to Kansas.

Tuesday, April 30th

Made our heavy packs and packed a barracks bag for myself. Co. I done last guard duty in Camp Hancock, Augusta, Ga. Bugler of the Guard.

MAY, 1918

Wednesday, May 1st

Sounded Revellie at the usual time. Ate breakfast. After breakfast, cars were placed and immediately started loading Co. Property on cars. Finished loading early in A.M. Men loaded on train at 3 P.M. Pulled away from Wheeles Station at 3:10 P.M. Soon speeding North through North Carolina. Don't know our destination.

Thursday, May 2nd

Upon being called for breakfast, learned we were in North Carolina and on the Atlantic Seaboard R.R. & A.C.L. R.R. Crossed the Va. State Line at 11 A.M. Arrived in Richmond at 12 P.M. Red Cross gave us cakes and various other articles. Arrived Wash. at 4 P.M. Given hot coffee and sandwiches. Left Wash. on the B&O. Arrived in Phila. at 24th and Chestnut Street Station at 10:25 P.M. Crowd nearly wild to learn of Pa. troops being there.

Friday, May 3rd

Arrived at Jersey City, N.J., at 3 A.M. Unloaded all of our goods on ferries. Loaded on ferries to be ferried to Long Island City. Guide explained everything enroute. Unloaded at L.I. City on to a train waiting on the Long Island R.R. Arrived at Camp Upton at 2:10 P.M. Occupied barracks in Camp Upton, L.I.

Saturday, May 4th

Washed clothing for first and last time in Camp Upton, L.I. Checked up all unserviceable goods & turned same in to Supply Serg't. Given credit. Wired home for money.

Sunday, May 5th

Sunday and in Camp Upton. Saw Billy Whitman from Harrisburg. Was looking for Pap. Wrote him my farewell letter. Stayed up with H.B. Chubbs relatives until after midnight.

Monday, May 6th

Left the Barracks for the L.I. R.R. early after midnight. Loaded on the train at 4 A.M. Arrived at Long Island Terminal where we boarded Washington, P.R.R. ferry. Ferried to Cunard Piers. Boarded transport Acquatania. At this time Largest Steamer afloat.

Tuesday, May 7th

Sailed at 8:20 A.M. Raced with a W.J. & S.S. R.R. Ferry down the river. Passed the Statue of Liberty at 9:10 A.M. Bound for Somewhere on the high seas. A nice calm sea. No sea sickness on board.

Wednesday, May 8th

Second day at sea. No sea sickness and nothing visiable except huge mountains of water everywhere. Held a fire drill at 2 P.M.

Thursday, May 9th

Third day at sea. Told that we are due to reach danger zone early at night. On deck in the P.M. Saw gunners and guns in operation at target practice. Boat drill with life belts adjusted. Told to keep belts on at all times.

Friday, May 10th

Fourth day at sea. Entered danger zone. Life belts worn even to sleep in. Gunners sighted something off to the left on starboard side and trained guns on same until an American Flag was hoisted. On guard as Bugler of guard. B deck aft. Sounded fire call for boat drill and later sounded recall.

Saturday, May 11th

Fifth day at sea. Just circling waiting for a convoy. Do not advance at all. Taking a zigzag course to dodge submarines. Rough sea and the boat swaying for all it is worth. Huge freighter sighted on the horizon. All guns played on same. Heligraphic signals transferred between freighter & our boat telling us of convoy waiting for us.

Sunday, May 12th

Received three American Submarine Chasers and two torpedo boat destroyers. These boats played all around the boat enroute to the Irish Sea.

Monday, May 13th

Entered the Irish Sea opposite Wales. Could see the mountains of Wales in the distance. Sea as smooth as glass. Never imagined a sea so peaceful.

Tuesday, May 14th

Entered Liverpool harbour early in A.M. and later into dry docks. Unloaded late in the P.M. Hiked to the G.C.R.R. at Liverpool to be conveyed along the English chanel. Left Liverpool at 6 P.M. Saw some fine land enroute.

Wednesday, May 15th

Arrived at Folkstone, Kent County, Eng. Saw maimed and crippled and effects of air raids. Went to rest camp #6. Treated royally by English Tommies. Left Folkstone at 4 P.M. for Dover. Passed Canterbury and seen this famous old Cathedral. Arrived at Dover at 7 P.M. and hiked up the Heights of Dover to our billets there.

Thursday, May 16th

Hiked up to the summit of the heights. Saw the Castle of Dover, built 35 years B.C. with famous old moat. Hiked to the docks. Loaded on Channel steamer and arrived in Calais, France 2 hrs. later. Fortifications on the heights of Dover 1500 years old. Saw American, English and French aviators doing tale spins, looping the loop and various other hair breath stunts. In an air raid in Calais the first night in France. Jerry realized we were there. My first experiences under shell fire. Hear the shells of the anti air craft whining and whistling thru the air. Seemed quite unlike one of our own American Fourth of July Celebrations.

Friday, May 17th

[This is the first of several major contradictions in Bugler DeSilvey's journal. According to the May 16 entry, they crossed the English Channel to Calais on Friday the 16th, vice Saturday the 17th.]

Loaded on an English Channel Steamer and fairly flew across the Channel From Dover to Calais. Landed in Calais and formed the Co. on the Docks. Hiked nearly 3 miles to an English Rest Camp #3. Some restless Rest camp. Could hear the continuous roar of guns on the Western Front. Big air raid by Jerry in the night.

Saturday, May 18th

Took our American Eddystone Rifles to the American Ord. Dep't. In Calais, and were issued the Regulation English Enfield rifle in exchange. Returned to Camp and layed around all day listening to the roar of the Big guns. Air Raid by Jerry.

Sunday, May 19th

Hiked 5 mile to large English S.O.S. station and were issued the English Gas Mask and 100 rounds of ammunition. Returned to Rest Camp and rolled packs. Hiked 7 kilometers to Antionettes Station where we were loaded on 3rd Class Passenger train. Left Antionettes at 5 P.M. Arrived at Lombres in Flanders at 7:10 P.M. Loaded our packs on English Lorries and hiked to Bayenghem. Billetted among French Peasants in Billets better known in U.S.A. as Barns.

Monday, May 20th

Were given this day off to clean up and wash our clothing. We were told that we were going to train under English N.C.Os for a period of 3 weeks.

Tuesday, May 21st

Started our period of training in big Eng. Training camp. Saw One Division of Scottish Highlanders in their famous kilts on their way to the Front. They were accompanied by their famous pipes and Pipers. After this parade like movement of troops, settled down to business and went over the nomenclature of both Gas Mask and Enfield Rifle.

Wednesday, May 22nd

Second day of hard work. Saw big Guns returning from the Flanders Front and going up to the Somme Front. English Divisions in Flanders relieved by the French Poilou's or Grey Devils.

Thursday, May 23rd

Numerous English Lorries going to and from the Front. All day manouver over the huge 1000 yard rifle range.

Friday, May 24th

Severe bombardment on the entire Front by both sides. Extra large Areo attack on the entire Front by the entire Allied Armies. Great fleets of Aeroplanes passing overhead all day long.

Saturday, May 25th

Rest day for us in Bayenghem, France. Lucky boys. Selected as Lt. Coover's Striker. Numerous English planes bound for the German Lines to Bomb them.


Exhausted Members of the 28th Division in France

The Pennsylvania National Guard Would Contribute One of the AEF's Most Active Formations



Sunday, May 26th

Heavy Artillery deuling all along the Front lines east of Dunkirk. French confirm report that they took 1500 German Prisoners in renewed German Drive on this front.

Monday, May 27th

Hiked to drill field early for our daily schedule. Food exceptionally poor. Men of the Division complaining. Big 6 & 8 inch and 9 point 2 inch long range guns being dragged by powerful Holt Tractors to and from the front.

Tuesday, May 28th

Germans attacked newly formed French positions and took them together with Kemmil Hill. In strong counterattack, French retook all lost ground. Perfect slaughter for the German side. Severe Barrage put up by both sides.

Wednesday, May 29th

Rumored that the Artillery Brigade of the 28th Division were torpedoed and lost 5 men. Fierce fighting by Scottish Highlanders all along and in front of Kemmil Hill.

Thursday, May 30th

Observed Declaration Day. General Pershing inspected the camp. Large fleet of German Areoplanes flew over head to raid either Calais or St. Omer. Several machine guns turned on them with the result that they unloaded there bombs and returned to the lines.

Friday, May 31

On the 1000 inch range. Saw British Tommies giving a demonstration on drill discipline and disorder. Signed May Pay Roll.

JUNE, 1918

Saturday, June 1st

Drilled in the flag semiphore and Wigwag. Attended Bugle practice in the woods in rear of the drill field. Climbed to the top of the hill in rear of our billets after dark to watch the front lines. Saw directly overhead four german Planes caught in flash lights and English Planes engage them in battle. 3 brought down in flames. 1 escaped. Very interesting arial battle and the front seems like a huge celebration of July 4.

Sunday, June 2nd

Bugler of the Guard. Regular Sunday inspection. After inspection, Jocko Piffley, Lee Warner and I had a feast of dandelion and spuds. Artillery duelling along entire front. Sound nearer than ever. Watched the front from the hillside.

Monday, June 3rd

Examined in Semiphore and Wigwag signaling in Co. M Orchard. Passed with 99%. Germans began a crisscross or double drive for Paris. Stopped almost immediately by the French. Americans successful along their entire Sector at Toul.

Tuesday, June 3rd

Hiked to the large Rifle Range and then to the English School of Musketry. Received new special course on the range for the English Enfield Rifle.

Wednesday, June 5th

Still competing for honors on the Rifle Range. Saw 128 British Planes split up in Combat groups and loaded with bombs to bomb the lines and also Germany.

Thursday, June 6th

Amex [American Expeditionary Forces] succeed in driving the Dutch back across the Marne at Normans and gallantly defend their new positions. Resist fierce German Counter attack.

Friday, June 7th

One month since we sailed from the dear old U.S.A. Drilling hard in the Wig Wag, Semiphore and Morse Code. Bugle practice in the woods. At work hard all day long.

Saturday, June 8th

1st Regimental formation on French soil of the 112 U.S. Infantry. Drilled in the manual of the Bugle. Jock, Lee, & I enjoyed a meal of French Bread and Milk in an old orchard. Hiked 8 Kilos to Lart to turn in English Enfield Rifle and Ammunition. Received our good old American Eddystone back again.

Sunday, June 9th

Rolled packs and started our hike for the American sector. Left 8:45 A.M. Sunday. Was Bugler of the guard. Sick and complaining. Do not feel well.

Monday, June 10th

Started to hike from our billets at Fruquemberges at 9:15 A.M. Hiked to Fruges where we ate dinner. Hiked 5 mile out of the road to Anzicourt where we were billeted for the second night.

Tuesday, June 11th

Were told this was our last day of the hike. Not sorry of it. Left our billets at Anzicourt at 8 A.M. Selected by Cap't Jenkins as a connecting file between the Advanced Guard and the support. Pvt. Earl Small my mate. Arrived at Wavrans.

Wednesday, June 12th

Located in a field near Wavrans. Broke came early in the P.M. Entrained in side door pulmans. 8 Chavaux 40 Hommes at Wavrans. Our rations for 3 day travel consist of 1 tin of Corned beef and 1 box of hard bread. Arrived Eutoples on the Channel in the evening.

Thursday, June 13th

Making remarkable time enroute to our new American Sector. Passed through Paris. Saw famous Eiffel tower.

Friday, June 14th

Arrived at Sanine Sur-Marne on the out skirts of Paris. Hiked 21 Kilos to our billets in Ville Pinte. Very comfortable place and well contented here.

Saturday, June 15th

Visited surrounding villages. Treated royally by all classes of French people. Met Mme. Raynall and Mr. Raynall, a military Officer of the French officer. Co. Paid off in full.

Sunday, June 16th

Attended or rather filled an engagement for dinner with Mr. & Mme. Raynall in Aulnay Sous Bois. Had a fine dinner and enjoyed myself. Accompanied by Lee & Jacks.

Monday, June 17th

Started to drill under the instructions of French N.C.O.s who all possessed Croix da Militaire. Visited Livry in the evening. Heard the shells from the long range gun going through the air and later exploding in Paris. Very unpleasant weather.

Tuesday, June 18th

Regular daily routine and drill. Drilled in a heavy downpour of rain. Saw several Frenchman trying to catch some pigeons.

Wednesday, June 19th

Routine and regular A.M. drill. In P.M. Colonel Finney held 1st Dress Parade of any Regiment of Amex troops in France. First Dress Parade for the 112 Inf. since leaving the States.

Thursday, June 20th

Rolled packs and started our first lap for the lines. Left Villepinte and arrived at Courmont where we were located in the Mayor's barns. Arrived late in the P.M.

Friday, June 21

Our signal and scout detail at Roissy. Bought my first pack of American Cigarettes since landing. Smoked my first American cigarette. Big Division Manouvers.



Saturday, June 22

Practiced in manual of the Bugle in the woods all day. Entertained by several French Aviators doing the almost impossible flying upside down & the famous loop the loop.

Sunday, June 23rd

Rolled packs and were loaded in French Motor Lorries and hauled to La Tre Toire where we unloaded and were camped in dog tents in a field beside a french narrow gauge R.R. running into the line.

Monday, June 24th

Rest day in our new camp. Compelled to do our own cooking on account of the kitchens being on the road hiking. Had beefsteak & French fried spuds. Washed clothing.

Tuesday, June 25th

Started drilling in a near by field. Hard at it on the bugle. Saw several carload of French 70-shells being taken into the lines.

Wednesday, June 26th

Drilled hard all day. After drill hiked 8 kilometers to a stream and took a bath. First one for several weeks. No cooties yet.

Thursday, June 27th

Saw several German soldiers graves and several French & Tommy graves who were killed in the 1st retreat of the Marne 1914. Also 1 American aviator burried here.

Friday, June 28th

Drilled all day, and washed clothing afterwards in a swamp which smelled so bad one could hardly stand it.

Saturday, June 29th

Rolled our packs and started for 1 more lap nearer the lines. Billeted at Beucherries in a typical French stone stable.

Sunday, June 30th

A very heavy fire on our front. We could hear a continual roar of artillery. Vaux taken by the Yanks. Several German planes brought down by Yanks. Saw my first Amer. Liberty Plane with Liberty motor.

July, 1918

Monday, July 1st

Prisoners of the entire 112th Infantry sent to the front under guard to work with a regiment of Engineers. There work erecting wire entanglements. Deprived of rifles, ammunition and firearms of any description. Heavy barrage put up by the Americans. Drilled hard all day.

Tuesday, July 2nd

On duty at Arial observation tower all day long. Sounded to cover as twenty one Bosch photographing planes flew over head taking pictures. Sounded to cover three times.

Wednesday, July 3rd

Bugle practice in the woods near our billets in the morning. Relieved Bugler Langston on duty at Arial Observation Tower at 4:30 P.M. On duty until Taps.

Thursday, July 4th

Sounded call to arms at 1:00 A.M. Rolled packs. Hiked 9 kilos to the Grand Forest near La Chapell. Selected to go on a raiding party at 204 Hill. Jocko, E. Watt, Auchuto, Tate and myself selected from Co I. Our barrage started at 10:20 A.M. Ceased at 12:20 P.M. Went over the top at 12:21. Absolutely no resistance until we entered a woods. Ran into several Machine Gun Nests in the wood. Frank Achuto had Arm blown off. Earnest Watt Killed by German sniper from a tree top. Got my first shot at a Hun who proved to be chained to his gun and to the tree. Advanced 1300 yards and took and held against big odds 204 Hill. Relieved by a French Regiment at 4:35 P.M. Just realized what I had been through. Saw legs, arms and men torn to bits by huge shells. The ground smelled of the dead bodies who had be [been] laying around for quite a while. Artillery doing good work.


American Monument on Hill 204 Today



Friday, July 5th

Arose from a peaceful nights sleep not far from the lines. Returned to the woods and to the company. Went into camp. My nerves none to good for my experiences on 204 Hill the day before. Just beginning to realize what I had seen and what I had been through.

Saturday, July 6th

Our outfit told to select one platoon to go on duty in the lines that night. Severe barrage put up by Jerry. Jerry feeling for the woods with his guns. German areoplanes overhead observing his shots. Landed one big 8 inch shell square in the woods. Fortunately, did not hit a man. Shelled the woods and the road for 5 solid hours late at night. On Gas Guard at Bat. Hdq.

Sunday, July 7th

Americans busy hauling up big guns into position mile ahead of our camp. Moving of guns into position done before daybreak. Second Platoon of Co. I selected to go on the lines to meet resistance and give resistance to and from the enemy. Third Battalion occupying first or main line of resistance on the Marne River.

Monday July 8th

Companies busy digging in all night long and early in the morning. Formed gas guard at day break. Flashed signals all night long from my lamp. Sleeping all day long.

Tuesday, July 9th

Received orders to move to the Regimental main line of Resistance and occupied Reserve line of resistance with Hdqs. Co. Selected Chief of Laison and established my relays of Laison between Co. & Batl. & Between Batl. & Reg. Second Battalion recieved severe shelling killing Peanuts Waltz of Harrisburg, Co. E.

Wednesday, July 10th

Received orders to relieve the 111th Inf. As we were with the 109 Inf. Selected as the attacking party and Co. I as mopers ups of the 112th Inf. 111 and 110 Inf. as Divisional Mopper Ups. Relieved 111th in the deserted village of Mont Morelle on the Marne River. Expecting the Germans to launch a second big offensive for Paris. Two German spies captured at Telophone Hqs.

Thursday, July 11th

Digging in amid a severe downpour of rain. Received word that all our men are all O.K. Jocko and I are continually together.

Friday, July 12th

Establish outposts in a woods several hundred yards in advance of the rest of the Regiment. Jocko and I looking for the 1st Platoon.

Saturday, July 13th

Still waiting some orders to move. Meeting difficulty digging in in heavy underbrush. Germans give us a 55 hour barrage started the day before. Received orders to fall back to the opposite side of the Marne. Not a man lost.

Sunday, July 14th

French Independence Day observed by all Amex troops who were not in the lines. Jerry came over in massed formation until he reached the Marne R. Left him proceed and closed in on him from the rear and flanks. Captured 2800 Prisoners and started the Buffer action without Barrage.

Monday, July 15th

Started our counter offensive barrage and sounded like a huge trap drum beating continually. Arrived on the outskirts of Chateau Thierry and going good. Meeting no resistance to speak of.

Tuesday, July 16th

Started to enter Chateau Thierry at the break of day. Ran into severe Machine Gun barrage and practically mowed off. Managed to rout them and caused them severe losses. 2 Battalion Gassed by Hun artillery fire. Raining but this does not stop us.

Wednesday, July 17th

Dismal day. Raining to beat the band. Marooned from the rest of the company in a nearby dugout. After the rain, resumed our chase for Fritz. Could not find him all day long.

Thursday, July 18th

Started our offensive in earnest this day. Went Over the Top after an Artillery Barrage. Nearly cut off by Jerries Counter Barrage. Nothing at all seemed to stop the boys who were in it heart, body and soul. Our main objective taken at 3 P.M. Did not stop, but kept on going. In all we took nearly 5000 Prisoners and about 270 big guns--the 28th Division.

Friday, July 19th

Dug in in the A.M. without rations and wallowing in mud almost kneedeep. Ordered to resume the fighting until we reach the Ourcq River where we are to be relieved by the 32 Division. Striving hard to reach this point by night. Failed to do so. Dug a little fox hole for myself and Jocko.

Saturday, July 20th

Dug in sufficiently in our new positions. Still without rations. Big guns immediately in rear of us following us closely and giving us A No. 1 barrage. After a short preparitory 75 barrage we again started for our final lap before reaching the Ourcq. Met stiff resistance but soon got them out of the way with trench mortars and 1 pounders and Rifle grenades. Reached the Ourcq late in the P.M. Relieved by 32 Div.

Sunday, July 21st

32 Division took up the offensive and we went into camp for a day or two of good rest and sleep. Received orders to move late at night. Loaded in Lorries and hauled toward Chateau Thierry. Changed our course.

Monday, July 22nd

Unloaded early in the A.M. immediately in front of the big 16 and 18 in. Howitzers. Hiked up a long hill overlooking the Valley of the Ouraq R. Rested here until a shell killed two Co. C. Men. Packed up and left.

Tuesday, July 23rd

Were told we had a twenty kilo hike looking us in the face. Started out up and down the hills of the great Salient, through fields, in and out of shell holes, and to make life worth living, raining to beat the band. Reached our destination and went into camp on a steep hillside. Slept with Jocko. Awoke in the A.M. to find a Austrian 77 dud lying between the feet of Jocko and I.

Wednesday, July 24th

Located in a dense forest all cut to pieces by shell fire. Received orders to move as Jerry was going to lay a Barrage around and in the forest. Moved our amid a rain of shrapnel and in a terriffic rain storm. Ran into the 101 & 102 Inf. Of the 26th Division. Saw several Ambulances with men who were wounded and died in the Ambulance.

Thursday, July 25th

Located near Mt. Didier which is blown to bits. Not a wall standing over 4 ft. above the level of the ground. No rations as our limber is broken down. [LIMBER--a two-wheeled, detachable front part of a gun carriage usually supporting an ammunition chest.] Moved four kilometers to a forest. Passed by a German plane which was brought down by Major Luffbery

Friday, July 26th

Packed up and started to hike amid a downpour of rain. Our destination the summit of 202 Hill. Located on the summit of hill. Dug in and pitched camp. Shelled during the night.

Saturday, July 27th

Moved down in the Valley to the right of Chery and to the left of Dravigny. Saw 1 Jerry and a French flyer brought down. Took up position to get the 32nd Division out of a German flank movement. 32 Division released themselves without the aid of the 28th Div.

Sunday, July 28th

Captain Henderson of Co D. Hit square by an Austrian 88 shell. Could not find anything of him. Received orders to move. Moved to the Forrey Feren Tardenois. Burried five Frenchmen who were discolored and smelled. Also some Americans. Visited the General dugouts of the Krown Prince located in this Forrest at his Hqs.

Monday, July 29th

Dug in considerable and was camped in the Hqs Platoon with Roundy McGill. Anti Aircraft dud hit in the dugout between our heads. Needed no invitation to evacuate this place. Which we both did in a hurry. French Cavalry taking Jerry over the open fields followed by Amex doughboys.

Tuesday, July 30th

Feren Tardenois falls and Americans drive Jerry back along the entire Salient of Soissons & Rheims 50 kilometers. Casualties of our Company up to this time--had 262 men upon starting; now have 24. Replaced for the first time.

Wednesday, July 31st

Entire 28th Division mentioned in a G.H.Q. order for citation and decoration for starting this successful counter offensive Against the C.P & Jerry.

AUGUST, 1918

Thursday, August 1st

109th & 112th Infantry in hand to hand bayonet fighting with crack Prussian Guards. Punished and inflicted heavy losses on this crack unit of the German Army at Surgy near Firentardenois.

Friday, August 2nd

Several villages taken along our entire front. Great booty such as guns and many thousands of German Prisoners taken. Moving along roads in mud knee deep. Falling in shell holes and various death traps such as trenches filled with water with barbed wire to hold you fast. My height is all that saved me.

Saturday, August 3rd

Relieved and started to hike. Hiked in a terriffic down pour of rain. Weary and very hungry without rations now 3 days. Wore gas mask continually. Germans sending over plenty of Mustard and Phosgene Gas. Fell in shell holes and trenches and finally reached our destination. Bunked with Jocko Piffley in this downpour of rain. Soaked through and through. So played out that I never slept any better in my life.

Sunday, August 4th

Layed out in the sunshine and allowed the sun to dry our clothing on our bodies. Went into near by forrest to camp for the night. Compelled to sleep in several inches of water which I gladly done For I was glad enough to have a hole to crawl into. Slept fine. Raining but did not know it.

Monday, August 5th

Hiked in mud amid a furious downpour of rain into St. Giles. Shelled by the Bosche and received severe gassing. Now in support and due to relieve the 4th Division on a flank manouver under actual fire of the enemy Machine Gun emplacements.

Tuesday, August 6

28th Division relieved the 32 Division at or rather in Fismes. We occupy one half of this important town on the Vesle River. German outposts sending a rain of bullets down the streets at all times. Received an extra heavy artillery barrage shelling in our lines.

Men of Iron: The 28th Division at the Marne



Wednesday, August 7

Told by our captain to prepare to attack in force at 11:45 with a machine Gun and one pounder barrage. Artillery unable to get into position on account of the mud and the rain. Crossed the Vesle and Fismes fell late in the afternoon. In advancing was given aid to Arthur Van Sile whose hand was blown off and in turn was painfully wounded in the leg by a German 88 high explosive shell fragment. Received a 12 minute 1 pounder barrage and changed our course in looking for the 1st Aid station. Ran into Gas near Fismes and gassed by phosgene. Went into dugout in a woods. Leg stiff and causing me trouble. Pains badly.

Thursday, August 8th

Still lost as to direction. Hunting 1st aid station. Being helped by Arthur Van Sile also wounded. While wandering around woods ran onto a road. Followed road until reaching a body of troops. Asked for 1st Aid. Given attention. Ambulance hailed, loaded on and hauled to the advance dressing station. Taken to field Hospital in turn at Coan. Ran into Quentin Roosevelts grave. Took piece of aluminum from the fragments of the plane. Taken from Field Hos. To Evac. Hosp #6 at Chateau Thierry. Evacuated after an operation & had shrapnel removed. Evacuated on Hos. Train 54 from Chateau Thierry. Destination as yet unknown.

Friday, August 9th

Still on Hos. Train. Passed through Sezanne enroute to the Switzerland Border. Name of the Town or No. Of the Hospital unknown.

Saturday, August 10th

Arrived at Vittel in Vosge Province near Nuefchateau and Epinal. Put in Base Hosp. No. 23. Ate my first bite since going into the lines on the Vesle River early in the week. [Ref August 3 entry: DeSilvey indicated they had been without rations for three days at that time. Thus, August 10 would have been the tenth day with no food.] Leg dressed. Xray taken and fleuroscopies taken.

Sunday, August 11th

Leg operated on the second time. Leg dressed and put in floating swing. My Nurse a Penna Girl Miss Hunt. Saw several boys from the Co. Hocker, Tomb, Piffley, Garman and Fosburg all wounded and me the only one not able to get out of bed.

Monday, August 12th

Slept like a rock last night. Ate a hearty breakfast. Taken for a second Xray just before dinner. Leg Paining me very much and needs dressing. In the afternoon tube put in wound and dressed. Wound also packed with gauze.

Tuesday, August 13th

Found that a bone is broken and a other operation is necessary. Piece of bone removed. Leg dressed by my doctor and Nurse who are both very gentle. Leg pains me greatly.

Wednesday, August 14th

Foot gives me trouble. Allowed to set up. Given a lap table. Wrote several letters home. Rather uncomfortable to set up with your foot higher than your head. Boy next to me who is quite interesting he being from the 168th Inf., Rainbow or 42nd Division, Pvt Larson, Co. F, Ottesen, Iowa. Talked and read all day.

Thursday, August 15th

Quite a warm day out of doors. One does not know there is a War going on except to see these poor cripples and gassed. Told Lt. Muth, my Dr. about being gassed. Did not make a note of it. Gave me some kind of powders. Leg dressed late in the P.M.

Friday, August 16th

Quite miserable out of doors. Still in bed. Good and tired of it but must be contented. Red Cross girl visited all wounded boys. Read Magazines and wrote May and Mother each a letter. [Assume the reference to "Mother" is either DeSilvey's stepmother since his own mother died in 1900.]

Saturday, August 17th

Given a pair of crutches and had a Thomas splint put on my leg and told to move around and go to the park. Given a suit of convalescent clothing. Saw several men from my Co. Who are here wounded and gassed.

Sunday, August 18th

Went to the park and saw quite an interesting base-ball game between Base Hospital 23 and a crack Canadian team. Base Hospital #23 won by the score of 7-2.

Monday, August 19th

Cleaned up and was asked if I could master my crutches good enough to look after and wait on a seriously gassed patient. Decided I could, accepted and went on duty a 7 P.M. All night work. Patient crying My, God in Italian Oh! Yeazush.

Tuesday, August 20th

Relieved by day orderly at 7 o'clock in the morning. Visited dentist by permission and appointment of the Dr. Had 1 tooth extracted and several ground out and filled. Asked for clothing and permission to go to the bank to cash a check for Pvt. Larson. Given both.

Wednesday, August 21st

Went to the bank after being relieved from duty in the morning. Bought several things for Pvt. Larson. Hunted through Base Hospital #36 for Jocko Piffley. Finally found him in Building B of Base #36.

Thursday, August 22nd

Foot and leg swelled up nearly double. Doctor ordered me to bed. Gassed patient died during the morning. Had foot and leg operated on for the 3rd time. Again my leg together with my foot giving me great pain.

Friday, August 23rd

Still in bed. Nurse ordered to redress my leg at least four times daily. Red Cross gave us an entertainment of Movies on the ceiling. Given several pieces of good old Lowney's chocolate candy. Quite a good Chas. Chaplin Movie.

Saturday, August 24th

Saturday and the orderly preparing for inspection. Wanted [me] to get out but told by the doctor that under no circumstances was I to get out of bed. He need not worry. My foot hurts to badly to even move it.

Sunday, August 25th

Doctor hesitates as to giving me permission to get up. Finally allowed me to be pushed to the ball game. Wittnessed one of the best played games I have ever seen Between Base Hos. #23 and the 3rd W.S. Cavalry. The 3rd Cavalry finally won after 16 innings of a scoreless tie. Score 1-0 - 16 innings.

Monday, August 26th

Had a man push me to the movies. Discusted with them. Later this boy pushed me to the plum orchards where several French people gave me all I wanted.

Tuesday, August 27th

Suffered for going out. Laid up in a floating sling. Machine gun wound giving me quite a bit of trouble. [This is DeSilvey's first mention of a machine gun wound. His August 7 entry only indicated his leg wound from shrapnel.]

Wednesday, August 28th

Suffered severe pains during the entire night. Had both wounds thoroughly cleaned and dressed by Miss Hunt.

Thursday, August 29th

Wound dressed early by Miss Hunt. Later read quite a bit. Wrote several letters. Haven't heard from home for over a month.

Friday, August 30th

Asked the doctor and later asked the nurse if I could have my foot put on the bed. Both laughed at me and said they would consider it. Saw movies shown on the ceiling by the red cross.

Saturday, August 31st

Anxious to get a good look at any kind of an English newspaper. None to be had for love nor money. All of my pals from the Co. Evacuated to another hospital.

Men killed in action: Harry Bashore

Wounded in Action: Fosberg

Garman

Hocker Attacking on the

Peffley Vesle River

Tomb

DeSilvey

Borbidge -- In death valley, August 11, 1918.

SEPTEMBER, 1918

Sunday, Sept. 1st

Red Cross woman came in and talked with me. Treated very fine by all members of the A.R.C. here in Vittel.

Monday, Sept. 2nd

Heard lots of French trucks and lots of troops and ammunition, together with artillery, going up to the lines all night and all day long. Believe a big drive to soon take place.

Tuesday, Sept. 3rd

Troops and ammunition moving by the Hospital all night and day amid a severe downpour of rain. They have my sympathy for I realize their feelings.

Wednesday, Sept. 4th

Am almost sure and made a remark to my doctor and nurse that a big drive would take place in less than 10 days. Troops and supplies still going toward the front.

Thursday, Sept. 5th

Very quiet and miserable day. Leg giving me trouble. Selected to blow Taps at all funerals of this centre. Wrote home again.

Friday, Sept. 6th

Started to read a book called Gettysburg, and tried to picture the War at that time and the War of today. Quite unlike one another.

Saturday, Sept. 7th

Read quite a lot about Harrisburg, Pa. And this made me quite homesick. First time I have been homesick in my life. Leg feeling good.

Sunday, Sept. 8th

Played checkers all day. Looked for and could not find my match. Made friends with one little German Prisoner who is only one month over 16 years old. He was wounded by an American hand grenade on July 4th at 204 Hill. Interested in him.

Monday, Sept. 9th

Leg put in cast to remain this way for 9 days at least. Played checkers with my dutch friend.

Tuesday, Sept. 10th

Were told that a drive was to be started in front of us in a day or two. Troops going to the lines in long columns.

Wednesday, Sept. 11th

Could hear a heavy rumble of guns. Said it must be a preparitory barrage for a drive. Troops still going up.

Thursday, Sept. 12

This news traveled like a shot from a cannon. Drive started in the St. Mihel Salient where no action or change in the lines of both armies for the past 3 years. Learned that the Yanks had captured over 1000 German prisoners.

Friday, Sept. 13th

Learned that the yanks had captured Mt. Ses and several other vital points. Had ice cream and cake. This being General Pershing's birthday the reason for the treat.

Saturday, Sept. 14th

Hospital trains carrying over 300 wounded German Prisoners arrive in Vittel. 352 prisoners arrived this day. Americans can not advance further on account of the shell fire in the Metz area. Thiacourt and Fresnes taken. Ground taken in 3 days what it took the Germans over a year to take.

Sunday, Sept. 15th

Operating room going full blast both night and day. In less than 24 hours in the Hospital, 312 Germans had their arms or there legs amputated. This being due to the Gas infection which set in. Doctors called it gas Purcillious or Gangrene from gas.

Monday, Sept. 16th

Had a German make me a cigarette holder from a fragment of an amputated leg. Regard this as my best souvenir of the War.

Tuesday, Sept. 17th

Asked the doctor to give me an order to have the cast removed. He told me he would give me the order tomorrow. Feel as though I can use my foot and leg. Feeling fine.

Wednesday, Sept. 18

Took my crutches and an order and had the cast removed. Leg very weak. Watched an interesting tennis match on the courts in the park.

Thursday, Sept. 19th

Went to the famous Ludendorf Theater and saw quite an interesting show. Did not see the finish of it in the Afternoon. Went back in the evening to see the remainder.

Friday, Sept. 20th

Helped the nurse to dress her blind brother who was blinded in the recent drive by Hun machine gun bullet. The most pitiful sight I have ever seen in my life.

Saturday, Sept. 21st

Sat around and helped all I could. Shaved several patients free who were unable to get out of bed. Shaved this blind boy who allowed the doctor to transfuse the knee serium into the broken knee of the ward master who he knocked off a step ladder.

Sunday, Sept. 22nd

Evacuated together with a lot of the old patients. I was evacuated to Dijon and then to Is Sur Tille to be reclassified before going any further. Arrived at Is Sur Tille late in the afternoon. Put in barracks after a nice hour's hike along a dark road.

Monday Sept. 23rd

Heard a nice band concert in front of the evacuating office known as the Central Hotel. The band is one of the famous Rainbow Division Bands.

Tuesday, Sept 24th

Leg still stiff and quite sore. Called in and to be replaced to the Toul replacement camp at Boid Livec 10 kilos south of Toul. Left Sur Tille late in the P.M.

Wednesday, Sept. 25th:

Arrived at Toul and at the replacement camp early in the day. Sent from the camp to join my company at Les Islettes. Went through Bar Le Duc, Ravigny, and St. Menehould. Arrived at Clermont where I joined my company on the front lines. Severe barrage started at 10:20. The worst I have ever heard in my life.

Thursday, Sept. 26th

Barrage ceased at 6:20 A.M. Went over the top at 6:30 A.M. Passed over what was at one time the famous Hindenburg Line, now nothing but pulverized ground. Estimated by Division officers between 8 and 10,000 men burried alive in battered down dug outs. Varens taken without resistance.


View from atop Montfaucon Looking West

On September 26th the Division Went Over the Top
Near the Upper Left Corner and Advanced to the Right



Friday, Sept. 27th

Went after Jerry again this day. Took our objective at 10:20 A.M. which was the first hill. Here a German field Hospital was located. Went on and ran into them on the second Hill. Dutch Schaffer, Percy Lawson, Mattison, and Elsie Lynch killed; all near me.

Saturday, Sept. 28th

Still more Hell on the earth. Looked around and found Axel Anderson, Daddy Schwing, Rex Walker, and Spike Kirby dead; killed by shell fire. Heads blown off of two, and the rest look as though they are resting.

Sunday, Sept. 29th

Told we were to be relieved. Out Battalion went into the fight with 1929 men; came back with 49 men. Relieved and replaced by the 40th Division. Put in reserve in Death Valley where we were shot off wholesale. Jimmy Borbridge lost his legs here. Jim Summerton and Earl Small each lost an Arm. In twenty-one minutes we had 168 men killed outright and 328 wounded. This place earned the name of Death Valley.

Monday, Sept. 30th

Were bombed by several German Planes with heavy losses. Later in the day a squadron of German Planes came over--26 strong flying about 50 ft. high. We were lined up and waiting for them. Our Battalion commander ordered us to open fire in a volley which we done with good results. This drove them into the Anti aircraft guns who succeeded in downing 19 of the 26.

Men of the Company killed in action:

Kirby Mattison Schaffer

Walker Lynch Anderson

Schwing Lawson

OCTOBER, 1918

Tuesday, Oct. 1st

Moved from Death Valley only to run into a barrage known as the Creeping Box Barrage. Suffered heavy losses this day. Still moving north late at night.

Wednesday, Oct. 2nd

Located and relieved the French early in the morning on a steep hillside. Took up the offensive at day break. Entered Montfaricon in the afternoon.

Thursday, Oct 3rd

In less than 24 hours from this time we occupied Montfaricon. We were driven out of Montfaricon 9 successive times. But each time reformed and counter attacked until finally we drove them 3 kilos past the town and kept all of our ground.

Friday, Oct. 4th

Established laison between the 109 Inf. Who with us were the attacking parties. Fritzie again trying to out flank us. Succeeded in getting 2 Companies, Co. G & Co. H. [DeSilvey never completed his thought here.] Only 3 men returned out of 700 who went over in A.M.

Saturday, Oct. 5th

In a severe Artillery duel while advancing. Serg't. Green deserted his post of command while in action and also Corp. Padgett who returned to the kitchen and told the Mess Serg't. And cooks to pack up that we were retreating. A very cowardly trick.

Sunday, Oct. 6th

Learned that the kitchens had believed his stories and we were out of luck in other words. S.O.L. for anything to eat. Began our advance with our barrage which done excellent work.

Monday, Oct. 7th

Still going north. Kitchens caught up with us. I was trapped between machine gun fire which kept me continually on needles & pins. God must have been with me.

Tuesday, Oct. 8th

Relieved early in the morning by the 4th Division. From this point we took a right flank movement and made a separate opening. Our duties to keep Fritzie going toward the east. Were told that we had 10 days to reach our objective which was a lake near Chambley.

Wednesday, Oct. 9th

Still going east after a short halt to give us a little rest. Started out and went four kilometers with out hearing the crack of a gun or even seeing a German except dead Germans killed by shell fire.

Thursday, Oct. 10th

Learned we were going north east and would have to be cautious not to run into a trap which in this game are very common. Set my Prismatic compass for a bearing 15 degrees South of General East. Followed this bearing. Distance covered in two days 19 kilometers.

Friday, Oct. 11th

Rested for about 6 hours. Never any more worn out in my life. Had been raining continually for more than a week. Started out feeling like a new man under the difficulties. Fields fairly stink of the dead.

Saturday, Oct. 12th

Meeting all kinds of traps and obstacles of all kinds. With all these great handicaps, made wonderful progress. Ran into an old trench system at Apremont. Selected by the Cap't. for a patrol. Went out and patrolled the enemies lines. Coming back crawling on hands and knees, put my hands on something rather soft. Did not realize or could not find out until reaching our lines. Upon getting back, learned that one of the 6 men who were on this patrol duty were killed and saw my hand full of Blood.

Sunday, Oct. 13th

Went and progressed to Challous and Chatel Tierrier. Still trying to reach our destination within ten days. Were told that no relief was in sight until we were leap frogged at Chambley.

Monday, Oct. 14th

In a forrest the entire day. Shots coming from every where. Even located on big platforms in trees. Trying to find out our direction. Compass lost.

Tuesday, Oct. 15th

Went on with ease. No resistance. In Nonsard, Pannes, Benny, Xammas, St. Benoit and Essey. Met severe resistance in a large forrest. Went 5 kilos through the forrest and reached Lake Hauxmon & Don Martin farm late in the afternoon. Reaching our destination in seven days. No relief.

Wednesday, Oct. 16th

Established outposts and was put in charge of one overlooking and protecting the Standard Gauge Rail Road between St Benoit & Metz. Heard something along our advanced line of wire. Immediately turned machine gun fire in direction of the noise.

Thursday, Oct 17th

One machine Gun Co. outpost raided by Germans. 9 men killed and 3 taken prisoners. Observed all movements and location of balloons put up by Jerry. Several air battles overhead. One German plane brought down. Observer jumped from the plane.

Friday, Oct. 18th

Several day patrols reported to my post at time of going out and made note of their time for returning. One combat Patrol blew up the Don Martin farm which was a dangerous German Outpost and O.P. Artillery Cap't. Placed an A.O.P. [Artillery Observation Post] 20 yards east of mine to regard the effectiveness of his batteries fire.

Saturday, Oct. 19th

Germans made a direct hit on a dug out which was occupied by two H. Co. men. Pvt. Hoveland, one of the old 8th Pa. N.G. [DeSilvey did not complete his thought here. Seems the intended meaning was that Hoveland was in the dugout that took the direct hit.] Severe machine Gun and one pounder Barrage laid down around my outpost. Believe they are after A.O.P. Daylight patrols go out and return again with valuable information.

Sunday, Oct. 20th

Still in the outpost. Relieved early after 10 A.M. Went into a dug out with several inches of water. Sleep sound. First sleep for over four days.

Monday, Oct. 21st

Selected for guard at Battalion at La Republic Chateau. One gas and observation guard. No guard after dark.

Tuesday, Oct. 22nd

Still on guard duty. Kitchen arrived at Battalion. Jerry dropped a shell square on the kitchen. Nothing of importance going on. Serg't. Green the yellow streak sent to O.T.C. [Officer Training Corps].

Wednesday, Oct. 23rd

Still on Guard. Jerry sent over a four hour gass barrage with H.E. [High Explosive] in between. Did not get a single man.

Thursday, Oct. 24th

No relief from guard duty. Co. Busy throwing up trenches. Expecting some kind of action. Expect no relief from the 7th Division. Shelled quite frequently during the day.

Friday, Oct. 25th

Still on guard. Expecting relief any day or any time. Told to keep all men under cover at all times. To take no back talk.

Saturday, Oct. 26th

Still on guard. Guarding one of the many poisoned wells in this neighborhood. Men cussing because they can't get any water.

Sunday, Oct. 27th

Men out of patients [patience]. Nearest water 6 kilometers. No way possible to get any water during the day time.

Monday, Oct. 28th

Still on guard. Water to be boiled and receive chloride of lime treatment. 8 German planes brought down by anti-aircraft machine gun fire.

Tuesday, Oct. 29th

Still on guard. Found out the cabbage patch is poisoned and ordered to shoot the first man who refuses to obey an order regarding the same.

Wednesday, Oct. 30th

Anxious about getting relieved. Backed up now by 89 Division Artillery 340, 341, & 342 who pulled into position and action during the night. Sent Jerry several souvenirs in the form of HE & Gas.

Thursday, Oct. 31st

Still on guard at the Chateau. Learned that the Chateau was in Peace time occupied by Poincaire, President of France. Now absolutely demolished.

NOVEMBER, 1918

Friday, Nov. 1st

Still on guard at the Chateau. Called over to Co. Hdqs. To sign the payroll the first time since June 1918.

Saturday, Nov. 2nd

Still on guard. Selected to go on a raid on Jerry's lines. Pulled off guard and sent to the woods to rehearse the raid. This being due to the fact that we have just received new man who have never had actual experience

Sunday, Nov. 3rd

Given 16 had grenades and plenty of ammunition for the raid. Rehearsed the raid again and over several times this day.

Monday, Nov. 4th

Went out in the rear of a creeping box barrage. Lt. Russell going to fast with the rest of the boys outran our barrage. Seemed like a huge fox or rabbit hunt. Bagged 24 Dutch man in a dugout. Ordered them outside, did not move very fast, dropped 1 grenade and 19 came out. This being against rules for one man to handle more than ten prisoners, I gave 9 to another man and took ten in myself. Given credit and citated for the deed. Went back with my Winchester shot gun and grenades. Helped Joe Knoble in with his batch of prisoners. Lt. Russell, Sgts. Mahaffee, Clouser. [At the end of his November entries, DeSilvey lists the lieutenant and sergeants as killed in action during the raid.]


Woevre Plain Where the Division was Operating at War's End



Tuesday, Nov. 5th

Put on outpost duty in same post as before. Told under no conditions to fall back. We are merely sacrificed posts. Had the pleasure of shooting up 1 Hun patrol within 50 yards of my post. Cannot state how many killed, if any, between our first line of wire and Jerry's first line of wire. Day patrol shot up. 6 men killed and 1 wounded out of 9 men on the Patrol. A.O.P. located directly in rear of us about 40 yards in an old tree.

Wednesday, Nov. 6th

Shells getting a little two close to be comfortable, one dud falling directly in the trench. In a gas barrage. Received 2 prisoners of war who are Alsatians and sympathize with the French. One carried the French Tricolor in his watch case. Both speak French influently. Say they were lately transferred to the Western front from the Russian Front.

Thursday, Nov. 7th

Engineer patrol to erect wire entanglements went through my post. Could hear them working all night long. Flares put up several times by both Jerry and myself. Could see nothing of importance.

Friday, Nov. 8th

Shelled the entire day. Saw trench mortar blown up and 4 men killed. A.O.P. destroyed without any one hit. Were told of an offensive to start in a day or so. Dread this more than anything else. Were told of a relief; no relief in sight.

Saturday, Nov. 9th

Terriffic bombardment from both sides. We seem to be the object from both sides. Several killed and wounded. 1 Patrol shot up.

Sunday, Nov. 10th

Shot up 1 working party of the Germans just before daybreak. Learned that they were laying mines beneath their wire entanglements. Told to get a good nights sleep as we were to attack in the morning at 9 A.M.

Monday, Nov. 11th [The first Armistice Day]

From midnight until 11 o'clock absolutely the worst shell fire I have ever been under. Seemed as though every gun ever invented in the world was turned loose. Cap't. delayed in attacking until 10:40 when ordered by the Maj. to go over. Shells with gas. Gassed unsufficient to go to the Hqs. Rec'd 1st Aid. More men killed in these last 20 minutes than in any other day in the War. Returned to Co. again only to be wounded by a shell fragment near the end of the War. Layed on the field until after 1 o'clock before I was given aid. Guns ceased as quick as they started. Did not know what had happened. Germans came out of the woods and threw up their hands shouting in German Go back it is Not Good. 40 minutes later we learned why; they were busy blowing up mines of every description and everywhere between our lines. Did not or could not believe that the Armistice had been signed until we heard a band coming through the wood paying some good old Amex music. Wounded in advance.

Tuesday, Nov 12th

Advanced to the point that the Germans were to start to evacuate. Threw up a station known as Advance Romance and told to watch every move the Dutch made and every man was forbidden to talk with them without authority from superior officers.

Wednesday, Nov. 13th

The entire 112th Infantry Regiment relieved and packed up and hiked back through Benny, Nonsard, Hendicourt and Buxeriers where we slept for the night. I was taken in ambulance.

Thursday, Nov. 14th

Packed up and hiked up a steep mountain to abandoned billets of the Germans. Explored these billets and found to our astonishment 60 feet dugouts under each billet connected by tunnels. The entire hill was tunneled so that you could go from one end of the large camp to the other underground. Everything was equipped electrically. They even had a field Hosp. In a huge dugout. Was given medical attention and kept in this hospital.

Friday, Nov. 15th

Was a day of celebration and exploring and in one of the exploring parties, 19 men were blown to atoms fooling in an old abandoned dugout. We found huge concrete pill boxes all over this area. Even the roads were undermined. Obstacles of every kind were found. Forms of tanks and cannons made of stove pipe were located. These two were used to check troops & Draw Artillery fire.

Saturday, Nov. 16th

The boys celebrated this day by shooting away their ammunition. And in turn a Regimental order compelling each unit to carry out a drill schedule was issued. This order was not to take effect until Monday.

Sunday, Nov. 17th

Went over the hill to Buxeruelles to see Corp. Lee Warner who was on special duty at the Division railhead. Saw Lee for the first time since the last of June. Accompanied by Hosp. Sgt.

Monday, Nov. 18th

Started to carry out our drill schedule. Drilled in close order the entire day and in a downpour of rain. Received replacements for the seventh time. Under the weather.

Tuesday, Nov. 19th

Drilled in the same way as the day before. Raining in spurts. Equipping some of the new men who came in yesterday. Cap't. came to see me.

Wednesday, Nov. 20th

Drilled as per schedule. Raining and mighty miserable. Some men's feet on the ground. No clothing.

Thursday, Nov. 21st

Drilled as per schedule. Passed in review for the first time since last June. Lt. Col. Tucker relieved of his command by Col. Richards.

Friday, Nov. 22nd

Drilled as per schedule. Trying to get my lip back in shape on the Bugle. Just given bugle today. Raining.

Saturday, Nov. 23rd

Drilled as per schedule. Practicing in the woods. Stood Revellie & retreat for the first time since going into the lines. This done in Hosp. Manner.

Sunday, Nov. 24th

Went to see Lee Warner at Buxerelles. Given several candles which I am thankful for.

Monday, Nov. 25th

Drilled as per schedule. Rained.

Monday, Nov. 25th

Drilled as per schedule. Rained.

Wednesday, Nov. 27th

Drilled as per schedule. Rained.

Thursday, Nov. 28th

Same as above.

Friday, Nov. 29th

Same as above.



Saturday, Nov. 30th

Went to Buxeruelles to see Lee Warner. Seen Lee & Sgt. Phillip Troup who was in the old Co. I of the 8th Pa. Inf. Had a dandy time and some real chow. Returned to camp late in the evening. Cooties nearly set me crazy. Kept busy picking them off in my spare moments. Leg operated on and replaced. [Not sure of DeSilvey's wording/intended meaning here. He may have meant "repaired" vice "replaced". Was not aware he had had a leg amputated and replaced with an artificial one.] Some mud hole here 65 feet below the surface.

Men killed in action of the old 112 Inf. who came overseas with the unit.

Lt. Russell

Sgt. Eckles

" Mahaffe

Pvt. Clouser Last man killed in action. Killed at 10:58, Nov. 11th, 1918.

Men wounded in action in Nov.

Wounded in raid at Don-Martin Farms, Nov. 4, 1918

Sgt. Beard

" Henderson

Corp. Walker

" Kline

" Foulstone

" Dunn

" Spencer

Wounded and gassed Nov. 11, 1918 in advancing on Chamberly.

Bug. DeSilvey

" Cleigh

Mech. Liddock

" Rawlins

Pvts. Cook

Culp

Cowler

W.I.A. later day of 10th, Nov 11, 1918. Wounded last day of the war in attack.

Dimmock Larson

Durnell Metcalf

Bickley Merrill

Gouse Conn

Guy Benett

Fisher Summerton

Howard Cummings

This last row died of wounds received in action Nov. 11, 1918.

Fauston VanLeir

Werner Wallace

Troup Anderson

Schmocker Hoerner

Lease Whittaker

Thompson

DECEMBER, 1918

Sunday, Dec. 1st

Co. Drilled as per schedule. Raining as hard as it can come down.

Monday, Dec. 2nd

Batl. Drilled as per schedule. Raining.

Tuesday, Dec. 3rd

Batl. Drilled as per schedule. Raining.

Wednesday, Dec. 4th

Batl. Drilled as per schedule. Sun managed to creep through the clouds for 2 hours.

Thursday, Dec. 5th

Batl. Drilled as per schedule. Raining.

Friday, Dec. 6th

Reg. Drilled as per schedule. Raining.

Saturday, Dec. 7th

Visited Corp. Warner, Phil Troup at their Billets near our Railhead. Had some good eats.

Sunday, Dec. 8th

Co. Detailed to help fix up the bath house and delouser ruined by the Germans.

Monday, Dec. 9th

Still working on the bath house trying to regulate the water valves.

Tuesday, Dec. 10th

Still at work at bath house trying to regulate the water valves.

Wednesday, Dec. 11th

Still at work on delouser. Everything ready. Bathed 3 Cos. in the P.M.

Thursday, Dec. 12th

Co. Bathed. Co. I, Co. K & Co. L in the A.M. First time for over 60 days.

Friday, Dec. 13th

Co. Busy bathing various companies of the 112 Inf. Cleaning up in general. Inspection field.

Saturday, Dec. 14th

General Inspection of Quarters. Lee Warner returned to the Co. Very cross.

Sunday, Dec. 15th

Permanent detail on refixing an old destroyed billet as a Mess Hall for the Co.

Monday, Dec. 16th

Several men detailed to carry limber to remodel our new Mess Hall.

Tuesday, Dec. 17th

Some tedious job trying to fit in pieces every here and there. Making good progress.

Wednesday, Dec. 18th

Cutting windows in new Mess Hall.

Thursday, Dec. 19th

Getting everything in fine shape for a grand time on Christmas Day.

Friday, Dec. 20th

General Field Inspection in full field equipment. Every man checked up in hospital.

Saturday, Dec. 21st

Left the camp early in the morning detailed to go with a M.D. Rider to Commercy for some things for the Co. for our Christmas Dinner. Could not get anything for the amount of money given me. Slept in Commercy in the barracks of the 12th Vetinary Corps. Terriffic downpour of rain.

Sunday, Dec. 22nd

Called early and fed. Started back. Went through Sampigny, St. Mihel and Wionville. Returned to Co. Camp after dark. Leg examined.

Monday, Dec. 23rd

Co. Completed work on the Mess Hall. Tore end out of a billet to move the kitchen into.

Tuesday, Dec. 24th

Everything completed for as good a Xmas as can be had in France.

Wednesday, Dec. 25th

Xmas brought in by music in the Valley. Our dinner was Corn beef & Hard tack. Boy. Received chocolate from the Y.M.C.A., the first thing ever given out by this organization in France.

Thursday, Dec. 26th

Co. Drilled as per schedule. Rained.

Friday, Dec. 27th

Reg. Drilled as per schedule. Inspection in Full field equipment entire morning.

Saturday, Dec. 28th

Reg. Drilled as per schedule. General inspection of quarters & clothing of men displayed.

Sunday, Dec. 29th

Co. Reported to Regimental Hqs. in Buxeries. Went to Essey to the M.O.R.S. to be instructed in the Chau shot Automatic Rifle, one we have been using all summer in battle.

Later instructed in the Browning Auto. Rifle. Feeling bad. Report to the Hospital. On a Wild boar hunt.

Monday, Dec. 30th

Returned to the Co. on a 23rd Eng. Truck hauling water to the 28th Div Hqs at Heudicourt. Reported to the Batl. Dr. who marked me quarters. Could not get medicine of any kind an not much attention.

Tuesday, Dec. 31st

Reported on Sick report. Told to keep in my quarters out of the weather. Co. filled out their drill schedule. A regular front Line celebration as the old year departed. Quite a raggy day. Counted just 6 men this day who came across with us. A jaggy old year for us men of the Old 28th Division. Only one day in the entire month that the sun shone. Rained everyday.

JANUARY, 1919

Wednesday, Jan. 1st

Was ushered in like a Lion in the camp of the 112th W.S. Inf. Still on the sick report and in bed. Lt. Thomas refused to allow anyone to bring me my meals.

Thursday, Jan. 2nd

of Co. still on sick list. Refused to drill and was sent to Battalion Doctors office.

Friday, Jan. 3rd

Full Field Inspection on the field. I am still on the sick report. Temperature taken twice daily. Leg just commencing to give trouble.

Saturday, Jan. 4th

Every unit of the entire 28th Division ordered to be ready to move on Sunday, Jan. 5. Doctor ordered me to Field Hospital. Taken to Field Hosp. in Ambulance.

Sunday, Jan. 5th

Entire 28th Division moving past the Field hospital. Evacuated to Base hospital No. 82 located at Toul. Arrived at Base 82.

Monday, Jan. 6th

28th Division moving past on a nearby road. Dr. examined me. Told me it was an old ailment, reaction of Gas.

Tuesday, Jan. 7th

In base hospital treated for Chronic Bronchitis. Coughing terrible, this due to the Gas.

Wednesday, Jan. 8th

Still in Base Hosp. #82. Leg found to have a shattered Fiemer bone.

Thursday, Jan. 9th

Still in Base Hosp. #82. Xray taken of entire leg.

Friday, Jan. 10th

Still in Base Hosp. #82. Receiving first class attention.

Saturday, Jan. 11th

Still in Base Hosp. #82.

Sunday, Jan. 12th

Classified and told I would be evacuated in two days.

Monday, Jan. 13th

Attended Red Cross show and was kept busy getting ready to be evacuated.

Tuesday, Jan. 14th

Evacuated from Base 82 to Hospital train 45. Loaded on Hospital Train #45 at Toul. Passed through Neufchateau, Langres, Chalindrey, and Is Sur Tille where we layed over for a few hours. Leaving here we passed through Dijon, Chalon, Sur Saoone, Macon, Roanne, Lyons. And from here we traversed the beautiful valley of the famous Rhone River seeing sights which can not be equaled anywhere else in the world. We passed through St. Entienne, Grenoble, Valence where we seen old ruined fortifications and ruined castles. Here night overtook us. At night we went to Avignon where we layed over until the next morning early when we left there and went to Marseille, and then on to Toulon. We could continually see the snow covered peaks of the Lower French Alps. From here we went to Hyeres where 400 of the patients were unloaded. From Hyress out next stop was Cannes where we unloaded.

Wednesday, Jan 15th

We awoke 17 kilos south of Dijon and traveled to Valence.

Thursday, Jan. 16th

We awoke in Marseille and traveled to Cannes where we were unloaded and hauled to the Metropole Hotel about way between Guld Juan and Cannes. Every one in the huge convoy immediately fell in love with the place. We had a view from Mt.California over looking the Gulf of Juan and the Mediterranean Sea, also the town of Gulf Juan. Located in the Gulf are 3 lighthouses.

Friday, Jan. 17th

Doctor Johnson of Base Hospital examined me and made several notes of my case. Went to Cannes. Heard 1st Class Band Concert given by 114th Inf. Band.

Saturday, Jan. 18th

Up bright and early. Life seems worth living when you can see the sunshine & breath air like this. Took in a trip to Fruges, the ancient Roman town.

Sunday, Jan 19th

We bright and early cleaned up & took a bath in a real bath tub, the first time since leaving home in August, 1917. Took in a trip to Mt. California overlooking this entire area. Could look into Niece & as far north as Mt. Chamonix. Also a trip to Valorreas, the potteries of the old Romans.

Monday, Jan. 20th

As usual up bright and early breathing the pure fresh air and plenty of sunshine. Took in a trip to the Lerrin Islands, one trip I will never forget. Visited the Isle of St. Margairite where the Man of the Iron Mask was kept prisoner.

Tuesday, Jan 21st

Up bright and early to take my daily plunge in a good bath tub. Plenty of sunshine and life. Took in a trip to Glasses, the greatest perfume centre in the world.

Wednesday, Jan. 22nd

As before, up and at it full of life and sunshine. Off for a trip to Menton & Vintimile, the first town across the Italian Border. Seen some wonderful sights I shall never forget.

Thursday, Jan. 23rd

Up bright and early to take a trip up Mt. Chevalier to the old ruined fortifications and an old pottery. Seen how pottery was made at the time of the Romans & at Present.

Friday, Jan. 24th

Asked permission yesterday. Given it. Got up bright & early. Took my bath and started off for a two day trip. Got on a tramway going into Antiebes. Met a Belgian Officer who could speak quite a lot of English. Arriving in Antiebes, He introduced me to the Wife of the French Ambassador to England who was going to visit her Niece in Nice. Arriving in Nice she asked me if I intended to visit Monte Carlo and Monaco. I told her I did. She immediately told me if I allowed her 40 minutes, she would accompany us. We were only too glad to be able to have some one who could speak both French & Eng & who knew all the rounds of such a prominent place accompany us. We verified our time with her watch, went to the Casino in Nice, wrote a letter home, and returned in time to catch the 9:40 Tram going to Monaco. Getting in Monaco she took us to the Castle of the Ruler of this little independent Kingdom, The Prince of Monaco's Castle. Here we seen the famous paintings of Kultru, 16 in all, sold to the Prince of Russia t the close of the 1st Year of this great War for a fableous sum, 30,000,000 Francs. Leaving Monaco on a Tram, we arrived in Monte Carlo. She took us to the Carlton Hotel which is owned and runned by an American. Here she secured a civilian suit of clothing for each of us so we would be able to enter the Casino of Monte Carlo, The Gamblers Mecca. Fortunately we were able to play the games here. She later showed us the famous Garden of Suicides. >From here we left the Mme Deschamps and my partner took a train to Mt. Chamonix to spend the next day there which we done.

Saturday, Jan. 25th

At Mt. Chamonix seen French enjoying there famous sport of Skiing. Returned to the Metropole Hotel late in the evening.

Sunday, Jan. 26th

Evacuated to Hotel Britol in Cannes. A trip to Caretige.

Monday, Jan. 27th

Still at hotel Bristol. Nothing of importance. Attended a B. Con.

Tuesday, Jan. 28th

Evacuated from the Bristol Hotel to Hospital Train 64 Bound for Tours.

Wednesday, Jan. 29th

On the route we traveled here reached Lyon late in the P.M. Layed here quite awhile.

Thursday, Jan. 30th

Arrived at Moulins. Received Amex locomotive. Reached Bourges. Loaded on supplies on the train.

Friday, Jan. 31st

Arrived at Joul Le Tours. Transported in Ambulances to Base Hosp. #120.

FEBRUARY, 1919



Saturday, Feb. 1st

At Base Hosp. #120. Located in ward #41. Nothing of interest going on. Meningitis Epidemic.

Sunday, Feb. 2nd

At Base Hosp. #120. Received pass to visit City fo Tours. Climbed the Cathedral Towers.

Monday, Feb. 3rd

At Base Hosp. #120. Received two Traveling bags from the Red Cross at Tours.

Tuesday, Feb. 4th

At Base Hosp. #120. Cleaned up the Ward. Answered Roll Call. No details.

Wednesday, Feb. 5th

At Base Hosp. #120. German Prisoners eating at same table.

Thursday, Feb. 6th

At Base Hosp. #120. Red Cross Hut put under quarantine for the Epidemic.

Friday, Feb. 7th

At Base Hosp. #120. Rec'd cigarettes & tobacco from the American Red Cross.

Saturday, Feb. 8th

At Base Hosp. #120. New nurses arrived here from Alleray, central France.

Sunday, Feb. 9th

At Base Hosp. #120. Lieut. Good took charge. The old Lieut. relieved.

Monday, Feb. 10th

At Base Hosp. #120. Cap't. Came in to classify the men. Refused because records are incomplete.

Tuesday, Feb. 11th

At Base Hosp. #120. Transferred to Ward #1 from Ward #41. Plenty of work.

Wednesday, Feb. 12th

Base Hosp. #120. Took up the task voluntarily making out form 55's.

Thursday, Feb. 13th

At Base Hosp. #120. Still working to beat the band on records.

Friday, Feb. 14th

At Base Hosp. #120. Still on records.

Saturday, Feb. 15th

At Base Hosp. #120. Records finished and quite ready for the board.

Sunday, Feb. 16th

At Base Hosp. #120. Board examination reclassified D. Meningitis Raging.

Monday, Feb. 17th

At Base Hosp. #120. Looking foer a large evacuation to take place. Nothing of interest.

Tuesday, Feb. 18th

At Base Hosp. #120. Learned that we were to be evacuated early the next morning.

Wednesday, Feb. 19th

Evacuated to Hosp. Train #64. Bound for Bordeaux. Making wonderful time.

Thursday, Feb. 20th

Arrived and unloaded early in the A.M. at Beaudessert Base Hosp. #104. Wonderful System.

Friday, Feb. 21st

Doctor examined and reclassified me Class D. To be evacuated to the U.S.A.

Saturday, Feb. 22nd

At Base Hosp. #104. Treated fine by Red Cross. Attended show in theater.

Sunday, Feb. 23rd

At Base Hosp. #104. Enjoying the comforts of the Red Cross Hut. Enjoyable evening U.S.M.C. [Apparent reference to the U. S. Marine Corps. No specifics.]

Monday, Feb. 24th

At Base Hosp. #104. Quite an interesting performance in the hut.

Tuesday, Feb. 25th

At Base Hosp. #104. Heard the 1st Army Quartet. Real good singing.

Wednesday, Feb. 26th

At Base Hosp. #104. Saw some real black face comediens at work.

Thursday, Feb. 27th

At Base Hosp. #104. The Whiz Bangs finished us past time for the evening. Extra ordinary.

Friday, Feb. 28th

At Base Hosp. #104. Officers Dance at the Hut.

MARCH, 1919

Saturday, Mar. 1st

At Base Hosp. #104. Supposed to be a lecture. Lecturer failed to keep his appointment.

Sunday, Mar. 2nd

At Base Hosp. #104. Saw the famous Yankee Division #26 Minstrels. Real good.

Monday, Mar. 3rd

At Base Hosp. #104. Learned of an evacuation. To be evacuated tomorrow. Stood Cootie inspection.

Tuesday, Mar. 4th

Evacuated to Evacuation Hosp. #20 across the tracks. Assigned to #13 Ward. Made clerk.

Wednesday, Mar. 5th

Busy on records of the 150 men in the Ward.

Thursday, Mar. 6th

Busy on Ward and the Service Record Supplementory to the Original Record.

Friday, Mar. 7th

Records Finished and sent in good style.

Saturday, Mar. 8th

All finished and setting pretty. Signed Payroll and everything finished.

Sunday, Mar. 9th

Nothing of interest going on.

Monday, Mar. 10th

Making out records of men in the 164 Co. Of Casuals in Evac. Hosp. 20. Busy all day long. Examined for cooties and paid off in casual pay.

Tuesday, Mar. 11th

Taken to Red Cross Hut. Talked to by red cross worker on Vocational Education which every man has a chance to receive.

Wednesday, Mar. 12th

Awakened by the Ward Orderly at 12:30 A.M. Told to roll blankets & turn them in. Loaded on Hospital Train; taken to Bassens; unloaded on the Docks. Loaded on board "Antigone." Sailed at 2:30 P.M.

Thursday, Mar. 13th

Entered the breakwater and the High Seas. Sea extraordinary rough. Due to take a southern route. Saw movies in the evening.

Friday, Mar. 14th

"Antigone" making about 12 or 15 knots an hour. Rough sea & much seasickness, but boys happy to know they are on there way to the good old U.S.A. and back among God's people & in God's Country.

Saturday, Mar. 15th

Sea quite calm. Have not passed a boat since leaving Bordeaux and Bassens. Saw movie on board the "Antigone."

Sunday, Mar. 16th

Sea calm and having fine weather. Sighted the Azores off the port side of the sip. Came quite close; could see houses, villages and towns on the islands. Went entirely around the Canaries Islands.

Monday, Mar. 17th

Told that we are very near half way home and due to land in Little Old New York Town. Boys gay and happy. Entered Gulf Stream late in the P.M.

Tuesday, Mar. 18th

Heavy sea and this old boat swaying so one can hardly keep on his feet at times. Waves splashing over the deck.

Wednesday, Mar. 19th

Sea quite calm and, as usual, we all crowded on the decks to watch the sea and the dolphins which are quite common here in the Gulf Stream.

Thursday, Mar. 20th

Nothing but sky and water and boat leaping like a huge grey hound. Sailors beginning to give us the cry, "You can't stand there soldier." Got so bad we couldn't come on deck at all.

Friday, Mar. 21st

"You cant stay there soldier" is now our battle cry. Sea quite calm. In sight of the Bermudas.

Saturday, Mar. 22nd

Sea calm. Enjoyed the movies and also a lecture by a A.R.C. Worker.

Sunday, Mar. 23rd

Sea gulls came to meet us. Big flocks now following the ship

Monday, Mar. 24th

Entered N.Y. Harbour. Mayor Committee of Welcome came to meet us & band began to play "Home Sweet Home." Crowd began to cheer. As we steamed up the Bay, we all crowded to the one side of the boat almost upsetting the boat. Boat clean over on her side. Passed the Statue of Liberty & such whooping and cheering one never heard. Landed at pier 14 Hoboken & unloaded on the pier. Later loaded in the Postmaster General River Tug & ferried to 52nd St. Unloaded and hauled in ambulances to D.B. Hos. #3 at Greenhuts 18 & 6 Ave., N.Y. City Some place. Clothing taken away from us and issued pajamas and convalescent suits.

Tuesday, Mar. 25th

Taken from the Hospital to 18th St. and 5th Ave. To see the Review of the N. York 27th Division. Red Cross and Salvation Army gave pies, candy, cigarettes and anything one could wish for. Taken back to the Hosp. Sat around all day.

Wednesday, Mar. 26th

Clothing issued us early in the morning. Stood in line for nearly two hours waiting to have our clothing issued. Asked for permission to come home. Granted. Arrived in Harrisburg, Penna. At 10:30 P.M. Went home. Slept on the couch all night.

Thursday, Mar. 27th

In good old Harrisburg and at home once more. Surprised May when she came home.

Friday, Mar. 28th

Still at home. Visited several places. Had quite a nice time. Left for N.Y. City early in the evening. Train late leaving Phila.

Saturday, Mar. 29th

Evacuated early in the morning to Camp Dix, N.J. Placed in the Base Hosp. And assigned to Ward #3.

Sunday, Mar. 30th

Examined and recommended to be gone over by a T.B. specialist. Made application for a 5-day pass.

Monday, Mar. 31st

Given an X-ray of my lungs; also a thorough exam of my Heart & Lungs.

APRIL, 1919

Tuesday, April 1st

Pass issued and on my way home from Camp Dix, N.J. on the 12:30 noon Train. Arrived in Hbg. At 5:30 P.M.

Wednesday, April 2nd

At home. Visited several places and relatives. Seen Bill Strouse. Invited to luncheon in the Penn Harris [hotel] as his guest. Kiwanis Club.

Thursday, April 3rd

At home. Went to Strouse's New Store. Taken to the Penn Harris. Enjoyed myself. Taken to the Majestic Theatre; May along.

Friday, April 4th

At home. Went to Grandma & Grandpa Reese at Middletown. Enjoyed myself all day in Middletown. Came home early.

Saturday, April 5th

At home. Went to see Auntie Beck in the Market. Taken to Shoops Church in Raymond's auto. Seen W.W.D. Jr. Grave 1st time.

Sunday, April 6th

Left Hbg at 8:05 A.M.; train leaving Hbg. 1 hr:10 min. later. Arrived in Phila. 2:20 min. late. Ferried to Camden only to wait until 1:30 P.M. Arrived Camp Dix, N.J. 3:03 P.M.

Monday, April 7th

Evacuated to 22nd Co., M.P. 6 Batl., 153rd D.B. Hdq., Camp Dix, N.J.

Tuesday, April 8th

Laying around waiting for orders to fill out Supplementory Service Records.

Wednesday, April 9th

Nothing doing but laying around all day long.

Thursday, April 10th

Making out records. One bunch have gone to make out application blanks for physical examination.

Friday, April 11th

Nothing but laying around. No inspection.

Saturday, April 12th

Taken to Mustering out centre. Filled out all papers. Examined. Received 10% disability; also Vocational Education blank.

Sunday, April 13th

Cleaned up & pressed my clothing to be discharged tomorrow.

Monday, April 14th

The most eventful day in all my military career. Discharged at 2 P.M.. Took auto to Camden to try to catch train No. 21 in Phila. Missed connection. Caught train No. 651 at 4:50 P.M. Arrived in Hbg at 7:45 P.M. May at the station to meet me.

Tuesday, April 15th

Back home again in Harrisburg for good. Rather popular to all of my friends. Visited my relatives and former fellow workmen. Seems to good to be true that I am here home again to stay.

[This is Bugler DeSilvey's final daily journal entry. He would eventually die from the damage inflicted by his two gassings.]



Sources and Thanks: Phil Reese, Wayne DeSilvey's nephew did a tremendous job with his uncle's manuscript. Of course, his uncle was a wonderful diarist. Usually, we prefer to publish excerpts from such works. My feeling, though, was that the accomplishment here was with the total document rather than certain highlights. Phil also created the great bugler graphic at the start of the Diary. Wayne's more detailed accounts of the battles in which he fought will be used in the articles on those actions in the Battle Ground Series of the Dougboy Center. Regular DBC contributors Len Shurtlef and Ray Mentzer helped with the photos. MH.





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