German entrenching tool : 6 Battalion, AIF Accession Number: RELAWM00821

Description

Standard German entrenching tool constructed with a main blade rivetted to a strengthening shank, with a ball-topped wooden handle. There is mud and chalk still jammed into the rolled top of the blade and around the triangular pattern of rivets on the front of the blade. An early AWM collection sticker is attached to the blade.

Contextual Description

German entrenching tool captured by members of B Company, 6 Battalion near Merris on the night of 12 - 13 July 1918. This was a period marked by successful Australian night patrols which evolved into a strategy known as 'peaceful penetration', which gained large sections of the German outpost line and many prisoners, usually at night or even late afternoon, with stealth and mostly without artillery support. Many of the patrols were no larger than four to eight men.

B Company's attack on the night of 12 - 13 July occured late in 6 Battalion's period in the line (they were relieved a day later) and at a time when the Germans were more alert to the potential danger. Captain Matt Abson wrote (p 250 in 'As Rough as Bags', the unofficial battalion history): 'CO has asked me to carry out minor operation against a fairly long trench in front. Very short notice...Enemy very alert and wounded one man causing patrol to withdraw. Later Percy Rauert took out a small patrol and fired a few grenades but didn't get near post. Have arranged with CO for Arty (artillery) and will attack with 6th and 8th platoons under Lts Day and Palmer at midnight. Barrage very light and ragged ... Heard sounds of bombing, shots and after waiting an eternity, green flares appeared denoting success much to everyone's relief. One prisoner and two MGs taken, 3 wounded.'

The Battalion's War Diary notes that for the period 6 to 13 July 1918, these actions captured 31 prisoners, 14 machine guns, 2 minenwerfers and 'many rifles, grenades and much ammunition'.