When the Third Battle of Ypres commenced on 31 July 1917 the ground was heavily churned up from weeks of shellfire. Conditions were made even worse by the torrential rain that began falling that afternoon, this resulted in a sea of mud. The ground over which the infantry attacked became almost impassable, and tank after tank sank in and had to be abandoned. In the end only 19 tanks were able to play any part in attacking the German Second Line, 77 ditched or broke down.
This presentation will look at the deployment and actions of the Tank Corps at Third Ypres and ask: was this the correct place for them to fight?
Chris Copson was a former education officer at the Tank Museum, Bovington and an expert of the subject of tanks in the Great War.
Members and non-members of The Western Front Association are equally welcome, we ask for a modest £5 on the door to defray costs, included within the £5 is a free tea or coffee and a free raffle ticket. However, should you wish to bring your drinks then please feel free to do so.
Please note the new start time of 19:00
Photos Courtesy of Tank 100.com