Description:
Item is the fourth of eight diaries written by Archie Wills during World War I and describes Wills' experience at Witley Camp as well as his training at Woolwich, both located in England between February and August 1917. Wills describes the daily life of the soldiers at the Witley training camp, which consisted of parades and field exercises. The men are trained in the use of gas helmets. The diary illustrates the hardships endured by the soldiers, such as the wet and cold weather, lack of baths due to broken pipes and freezing temperatures and insufficient rations. During their spare time the men explore the surrounding areas and socialize with the locals. By March 13th Wills and two of his friends begin the publication of their paper "O-Pip", releasing the first volume in April 1917. By the end of June Wills begins a 6-week training course in Woolwich. He returns to Witley camp on August 13th 1917. People mentioned include: Goldie, James Alexander; Newton, William; Gisborne, Frederick; Arthur, Prince, Duke of Connaught, 1850-1942; Borden, Robert L., Sir, 1854-1937; Hughes, Garnet Burk
Subjects:
World War, 1914-1918; Wills, Archie
Date:
1917
Title-Alternative:
Volume 4: my life in the army by Archie H. Wills. England, Feb. 10, 1917 - Aug. 16. Ready for France.
Collection:
Archie H. Wills fonds
Location(s):
England--Witley Camp; England--Larkhill Camp; England--Hankley Common; England--Godalming; England--Hazlemere; England--Woolwich
People Depicted:
Wills, Archie; Goldie, James Alexander; Newton, William; Gisborne, Frederick; Arthur, Prince, Duke of Connaught, 1850-1942; Borden, Robert L., Sir, 1854-1937; Hughes, Garnet Burk