King's Own Royal Regiment Museum

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Away from the Front

No battalion was kept in the front line trenches for more than a few days at a time. If involved in an attack troops would be quickly replaced by fresher and fully manned units.

This meant there was a lot of time in the rear areas, away from the front line However there were still certain dangers and they were often still within range of the enemy artillery.

Keeping the men occupied was an important consideration for any commanding officer. On returning from the trenches days would be spent cleaning clothes and equipment and making up deficiencies. There would be plenty of training, everything from bomb throwing to time on the rifle ranges. Men would be repeatedly drilled - like gas mask drill - and there were plenty of inspections to make sure everyone’s kit was in order.

It would not all be boring routine. Men did, from time to time, get a bath - generally a company at a time! There was also time off with leave passes, although they were rare. Some officers were permitted to visit places like Amiens, Rouen or even Paris, for the lucky ones.

Next: The Tea Van

Supported by the Sir John Fisher Foundation and the Army Museums Ogilby Trust

© Images are copyright, Trustees of the King's Own Royal Regiment Museum.
 You must seek permission prior to publication of any of our images.