Major-General S W Hare

and the

54th Divisional Training Camp

Major-General Steuart Hare, the regular army officer commanding the 54th Division, believed strongly that Territorial soldiers could reach the same standard as those in the regular army. This was not a widespread view – the pre-war prejudice against the  ‘Saturday night soldiers’ or the ‘town clerks’ army’ of the Territorial Force lingered on.

Training had been an important part of battalion routine ever since the 54th Division had arrived in Egypt. It had brought up the fitness level of the existing troops and the new drafts. This had been crucial in crossing the Sinai Desert at the start of 1917. Technical training had been delivered through courses at Imperial School of Instruction at Zeitoun near Cairo. Those who attended had then passed on their knowledge once back with their units – an early example of the ‘trickle-down approach’.

After the failure to take Gaza in spring 1917, it was clear that training needed to be expanded and refined. The 54th Division set up its own training camps, nicknamed Regent’s Park and St James’ Park. These were designed to train companies ‘for active offensive operations’ and included some ‘intense physical training’ to improve stamina. Between June and October 1917 every company in the division  had spent a fortnight in one or other of the camps.  This preparation for battle would be ‘tested’ by small scale raids on enemy trenches.

Date 12/8/17

Holy Communion Bn HQ 0800.Bn HQ and parties from C and D coy proceeded to 54^th Div T School.

Date 13 to 23/8/17

Officers and NCOs and Divt school engaged at different classes daily on Lewes gun, bombing, bayonet and fighting and musketry. Hours of work 615 to 715, 845 to 945, 1615 to 1830. Lectures were given during morning of 3 days on cooperation of various arms with infantry via Artillery, Flying Corps and Machine Guns. Remainder of Battalion in Resume at Dorset House area engaged on musketry and company and platoon training. Three officers with eight NCOs and 40 men from A and B coys doing a 5 day course on trench construction work under RE.

Date 24/8/17

Orders received for all ranks of divisional school to rejoin their units prior to 54^th Divs relieving 53^rd Div in the line on the coastal sector. BHQ and remainder of party returned to battn at 1700.