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Born-Richmond

The final chapter in Operation Michael, the German offensive that began on 21st March, 1918 came on 5th April by which time the British line had been sent reeling back many miles across the Somme countryside, abandoning all those places that had been won at such a cost in the summer of 1916. They now held a line in front of Amiens, protecting that city and its vital railway network. But by this time the British  been reinforced and their line had steadied whereas the Germans were not only worn out but had overextended their crucial supply lines. Nevertheless they were still a powerful force.

47th Division had been in the front line on 21st March and after only a short rest were back in it on 5th April, with 140 and 142 Brigades holding a line at Aveluy Wood. The German attack here started with an artillery bombardment at 6.30am  which was followed by an infantry assault at 8am. The Germans employed three divisions against the two brigades of 47th Division and the  pressure and weight of fire on the front held by 142 Brigade was such as to force back 23rd London. On their left 24th London withdrew as well, forming a defensive flank so as not to lose touch with them. All attempts to regain their original position failed. In the afternoon two companies from 22nd London moved up from reserve and tried again but they too were unsuccessful and that evening all of 22nd London moved up to reinforce the front line. On the left of 24th London the 2nd Royal Marines of 63rd Division were also pushed back and 24th London had to form another defensive flank on that side. The fighting continued into 6th April. Working with 2nd Royal Marines, 24th London managed to regain some of the ground lost on the left but counter attacks against the Germans elsewhere proved fruitless. Nevertheless, despite losing some territory the enemy offensive had been contained and proved to be their last effort to take Amiens. There was however a price to be paid in casualties one of whom was Keith Treadwell of 24th London who was killed on 5th April.