The Tanks at 3rd Ypres. 21st – 23rd September 1917

15 Company had 2 tanks in action on 21st to 23rd September 1917. (W21)

E43, 2587, “Eldorado”, 2Lt Bayliss. (W5a)

E42, 2595, “Exquisite”, 2Lt Wilson (W5a)

Orders

These two tanks were detailed to operate with one tank from D Battalion, the later broke down on the way up. (W21)

The 20th Division, with tank support  was to capture Eagle Trench. (OH)

Account of Operations

Both “E” Battalion Tanks tanks ditched by Langemarck church at V22d10.20 (W5a).

A vague and seemingly inaccurate account of “Eldorado’s” action is given by the tank’s driver, Pte Valentine Field in S41.p39ff.

As the tanks had not arrived the operation was cancelled and the infantry did not attack. (OH)

Summary

The official history implies none of the tanks made the start point. 

Aftermath

“Eldorado” was photographed still abandoned and derelict at Langemark after the war (X41.p39)  

IWM 17849: http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/205252368

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7700258@N05/4100142743/in/set-72157601074582281/

Pte. Field states the tank was abandoned and a new tank issued to the crew which was christened Eldorado II, it was “Eldorado II” that fought at Cambrai  with “G” battalion as G66, not “Eldorado” as indicated on the relevant Battlegraph(S41.p39ff) (W21).

The Cambrai Battlegraph also indicates “Exquisite” was in action at Cambrai, though whether this is the original or a replacement tank is unknown. (W21)

Sources

W21 – 1st Tank brigade War Diary – Relevant reports and battlegraphs.

W5a – Appendix to War diary of 5th / E Tank Battalion held in PRO WO 95 / 111

S41 - Richard Pullen (2008) Beyond the Green Fields

OH – Official History, 1917, Vol 2, Pg.278

3rd Ypres Narratives - By date

3rd Ypres narratives - By Unit