Tremendous British Offensive

British Headquarters in France, July 1- A tremendous British offensive was launched at 7.30 this morning over a front extending twenty miles north of the Somme. The assault was preceded by terrific bombardment. The British troops already have occupied the German Front line and captured many prisoners. The terrific bombardment which preceded the attack lasted an hour an a half. Is it too early as yet to give any particulars of the fighting which is developing in intensity. The British casualties have so far been comparatively light according to official reports. The artillery bombardment of the last few days was concentrated this morning with a degree of fury and number of guns which were unprecedented in the region of Albert and the Somme. With the French co-operating to the south at 7.30 o’clock through the clouds of smoke and dust which hung over the whole field as far as the eye could see, infantry sprang from the trenches for an assault over a front of twenty miles. Already it has gained possession of the first line of trenches and the advance is continuing. The new British trench mortars played a great part in cutting wire entanglements and destroying trenches. Large number of prisoners were taken. Some of them say the British curtain of fire prevented them from getting food for the last five days. A British staff officer who witnessed the advance at the function of the French and British lines, said the attack was launched as through the men were on parade.

Source: The Daily News, July 3, 1916

 

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