Three page manuscript operation order for the attack of 167th Infantry Brigade on Polygon Wood, 16 August 1917

This Battle of Langemarck (16-18 August 1917) order outlines the proposed method of attack by 167th Brigade in three waves against part of Polygon Wood and Nonne Bosschen Wood using the 'leapfrog system'. This envisaged the first wave taking an objective and the next wave then passing through to the next. The orders show that success depended on perfect organisation and timing to match the brief interludes when the creeping artillery barrage lifted.

As it turned out the muddy conditions and stiff German resistance saw the attack fragment and then bog down.

From a collection of papers relating to Lieutenant-Colonel P L Ingpen, DSO and bar, West Yorkshire Regiment, Officer Commanding 1/8th Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment), 1916-1918.