Bourlon Wood, November 1917: What 185 Brigade Did Next

Published on 27 June 2025
Submitted by Fraser Skirrow

On 20 November 20 1917 at Havrincourt 185 Brigade of the 62nd West Riding Division carried out a highly successful attack. Called back into action days later the Brigade found itself in an unplanned and confused engagement with an enemy rapidly recovering from the shock of the assault.

How did the officers and men of 185 apply their tactical skills to this situation and what can be learned from the fight at Bourlon Wood?

Bourlon Wood, November 1917 – What 185 Brigade Did Next
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Local Branch Icon
Your local WFA branch

With around 50 branches, there may be one near you. The branch meetings are open to all.

Trenchmaper Icon
TrenchMapper

Utilise this tool to overlay historical trench maps with modern maps, enhancing battlefield research and exploration.

Standto Icon
Stand To!

Receive four issues annually of this prestigious journal, featuring deeply researched articles, book reviews and historical analysis.

Other Articles

2023 04 03 0561 Bromet Kephalo
29 October 2026

‘A varied repertoire’: the air war at Gallipoli in RAF Staff College papers

Read more
Gemini Generated Image Oco41Yoco41Yoco4
25 October 2026

The BEF in Two Retreats: Mons 1914 and Dunkirk 1940

Read more
Platoon Commanders (1)
21 October 2026

Most of the Work, Most of the Blame, None of the Credit. Platoon commanders in WW1

Read more
Image00004
15 October 2026

What’s in a name? The Futters of Burnham Thorpe

Read more
British Cavalry In World War 1
9 October 2026

British Cavalry on the Western Front

Read more