The Road to Chunuk Bair » drill

Friday 28th August 1914

Gillian Tasker — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:13 +0000

It was expected that Lieut Hardie would fill the vacancy caused by the inability of Lieut Aldridge to get away, but he also withdrew. Ultimately Lieut Bryan an ex Duntroon student and a member of the N.Z. Staff was selected and came on the strength. Lieut Watson was promoted Capt and second in Command. The day was quiet and devoted to section and squad drill.

Thursday August 20th 1914

Gillian Tasker — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:18 +0000

This morning we had our first regimental parade Lt Col himself being present, and he gave the various detachments a good shaking up, and told officers, N.C.O’S and men some plain home truths. The Regiment then marched through Palmerston North to the Hokowhitu Golf Links where Squad drill was carried out, the Regiment returning to camp about 4 p.m.

Wednesday August 19th 1914

Gillian Tasker — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:31 +0000

Lieut. C.B. Menteath reported into camp and received a hearty welcome from his fellow officers. The day was devoted to squad drill as until the full complement of men arrived in camp the Company could not be properly organized. Our first Adjutant Capt. W.R. Robinson departed having given up his duties at the earnest request of his C.O. Major Hart temporarily performed same pending the vacancy being filled.

Monday August 17th 1914

Gillian Tasker — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:13 +0000

A Fine morning. Company drill in the morning. 5^th Regt. men returned to Wellington. Capt Cameron was taken suddenly ill with appendicitis and was immediately ordered into Hospital at Palmerston North where an operation was performed successfully.

Sunday August 16th 1914

Gillian Tasker — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 00:00:40 +0000

Fine morning. Church Parade. Afternoon again wet. Squad drill –

Saturday August 15th 1914

Gillian Tasker — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:00:05 +0000

Squad drill. Nothing of importance happened. 35 men from 5^th Regt came into camp and were temporarily attached. Weather cold and showery. Saturday night 10pm. 20 men arrived from Taihape.

Friday August 14th 1914

Gillian Tasker — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:00:37 +0000

During the night of 13-14^th it rained heavily and the morning was cold and bleak. The first morning in camp was more than usually uncomfortable. Doubling parade before breakfast. The rest of the day was devoted to settling down and fixing camp. Section Drill.