Lucky Thirteen: XIII Corps Artillery Brigades, 1 July 1916

Speaker: Richard Smith
Artillery Somme

Little is written about the BEF's successes on 1 July 1916, how the artillery assisted in those successes and most importantly how much these achievements would shape future battles leading to victory in 1918.

The talk will look at the logistical and preparation work needed to prepare the brigades for the preliminary bombardment in June, how the ground was prepared to help achieve ultimate success, the bombardment and its effectiveness. 

Richard will also detail the commanders who meticulously planned the XIII Corps' attack and how these actions influenced the use of artillery for the rest of the war.

The Battle Of The Somme, July November 1916 Q892
German gun captured in Fricourt Wood, July 1916 (IWM Q892)

Members and non-members of The Western Front Association are equally welcome. Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.

Event organiser: Yorkshire branch
12 September 2026 14:00 to 16 September 2026 16:00
Manor Academy, Millfield Lane, Nether Poppleton, York, YO26 6PA
Branch contacts
David Tattersfield
(Branch Chairman)
Email David Tattersfield
Dave Durham
(Branch Vice-Chairman)
Email Dave Durham

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