It was, in fact, not until the day
that the Squadron was ordered to strike camp, that any officer or man
(except perhaps the officer commanding), became aware that a serious
movement was about to take place! An attack at any time would not, of
course, have been entirely unexpected, as we were always prepared for
something of the kind, but on this occasion the rumours that usually
precede operations of importance were entirely absent--although the number
of tactical schemes recently practised should have indicated that some
particular purpose was in view.
At 18.00 on September 17th, the Squadron paraded in full marching order,
and moved off, leaving all tents and buildings standing. _We never returned
to those quarters!_
The strength of the Squadron at this time was six officers, 212 O.R.'s, 181
riding horses, 80 draft mules, 43 pack animals. So far as can be
ascertained now, the following were the officers and N.C.O.'s:--
_Headquarters:_
Major L.F. St. John Davies, M.C.
Capt. R.H. Fairbairns, M.C.
S.S.M. Fleet, M.M.
S.Q.M.S. Fisher.
Farr.-Staff-Sergt. Robertson.
Sergt. Conuel (Transport).
Sergt. Ramsay (Orderly Room).
S.S.-Corpl. Anderson.
Sig.-Corpl. Foster.
Saddler-Corpl.
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