The theory – source 3

Page from the Trench Standing Orders that were issued during the War. (DUL ref: Lowe Papers, File Trench Standing Orders)

This source is an extract from an official pamphlet called Trench Standing Orders in which various aspects of trench life are laid down. Read the source carefully to see what it tells you about trench warfare. A transcript and an enlarged version are available.

1. Read Section 10 – Attacks. What is the procedure when under attack? What use are trenches in this situation?

2. Read Section 11 – Sanitation. Why would these regulations be so important in the trenches?

3. Read Section 12 – Why would an inventory of store be taken? What does this tell you about the nature of fighting in the First World War?

4. How closely do you think these regulations and guidelines were followed?

5. What does this source tell us about trench warfare?

Finished? Now find out what it was really like to fight in the trenches.