War of attrition

“Your recent article on the First World War Cyclist Corps interested me as my father joined the Territorial Force, Cyclist Corps on June 5 1915 as Private James Mason, 19 years old,” writes Alex Mason.

“19367 Pte J. Mason, ACC (Dundee) managed to survive the war without a scratch and told the family about some of the conditions.

“One job he had was carrying shells to the large guns from the stores in the pitch black. Many lost their lives doing this as they fell into the deep shell craters full of mud.

“Lice was another big problem for the men and meals were poor.

“A few sergeants in charge were often a law unto themselves and it was their job to ensure that the men went over the top. A few of those who didn’t were shot, but not with German bullets.

“My father had a sergeant like this who was also an alcoholic and he treated his men badly but in the heat of battle he paid a high price for what he did to his men.

“There was also the lighter side and one story he told us was about the time he was up a tree with his rifle but was caught short so he descended and proceeded to the bushes. He was suddenly knocked backwards by a bullet that hit his tin helmet and knocked it off. That was his lucky day.

“It really was a war of attrition when soldiers on both sides had to ensure their own safety and soldiers lying on the ground may not be dead, but pretending, so the bayonet was used.

“My father was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for conspicuous gallantry in action. ‘When a machine gun opened fire on their advancing line he pushed forward and bayoneted the gunner, holding the gun until the remainder of his section captured the post.’ By all accounts he was a good marksman and may have been a sniper.

“My daughter and I are currently researching my father 1898-1972, the Army Cycle Corps and the part they played.

“If any of your readers can help with more information we would be grateful. He and his family lived in the Mains of Claverhouse for most of his life.”

If you can help Alex, please get in touch with Craigie in the first instance and we will pass any information on.

Today’s picture shows Dundee East Station in the 1930s. Observe the horse-drawn wagon laden with barrels. Some of the landmarks are still there today!

David Soutar has sent this photo of the Greenfield dancers, from left, Tommy Hill, Charlie Owen and Bruce Soutar, David’s brother.