Disaster to Triumph: The West Riding Division

Published on 19 January 2013
Submitted by Dr Derek Clayton

Derek Clayton examines the performance of the 49th (West Riding) Division on three specific days, detailing the attacks of 3 September 1916 at Thiepval, 9 October 1917 at Poelcapelle, and 1 November 1918 at Valenciennes.

The 49th (West Riding) Division was involved in several significant attacks during World War I. Specifically, the division participated in the Battle of Thiepval (September 3, 1916), the Battle of Poelcappelle (October 9, 1917), and the attack on Valenciennes (November 1, 1918).

These engagements highlight the division's varied experiences, from heavy losses at Thiepval to a more successful, albeit costly, advance at Poelcappelle, and finally, participation in the final Allied offensives near the war's end at Valenciennes. 

Disaster to Triumph: The West Riding Division
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