'L Battery RHA Nery', Royal Horse Artillery at Nery, 1 September 1914

Pencil drawing by William Barns Wollen, 1916 (c).

The sketch depicts a gun team under shell fire during the desperate rearguard action by 'L' Battery, Royal Horse Artillery at Néry on 1 September 1914. The notes on the sketch make reference to German guns firing at 500 to 700 yards range and the nature of the terrain being fought over. The picture shows the battery deployed by haystacks with shrapnel from shells exploding above the gunners.

During the retreat from Mons, British and German dismounted cavalry units clashed at Nery. Supporting British artillery was largely knocked out by German guns but a single 13-pounder gun of 'L' Battery Royal Horse Artillery remained in action until reinforcements arrived and drove the German forces off. Three of the gunners were awarded Victoria Crosses for their gallantry and the Royal Horse Artillery gained a battle honour for the action.