BROOM ON HILL 6o
"Hill 6o* in 1914 was merely a low ridge some
250 feet high, and 250 yds. from end to end,
formed artificially when the railway cutting was
dug. . . Its military importance was due to its
being the highest point in this area and
consequently commanding views in every direction."
The Battle Book of Ypres.
(Written after a visit to Hill 6o - June 4th, 1933)
So bravely breaks the golden broom
Upon the hill again
That we can see in Nature's mood
An easement of all pain.
Ah! who could guess when standing here
That men in fury fought,
And held their wills, and gave their lives,
To hold a place long sought?
This little hill that any child
With careless, happy laughter
Could make in one long, gallant run,
Is left to fame hereafter.
Here late was mud, and long churned earth,
But also roots that bore
A flaming bush to victory
From out the insensate maw.
(printed in the Ypres Times)
*Several V.C.'s were awarded for Valour on this hill.
I wrote to my wife Maud (nee Hyde) regularly in diary form. Two examples:
June 2nd. 1917 Only got two hours sleep
yesterday: didn't take off my things so I am a little tired.
Yes, I saw Graham's name in the list of awards. I am sure
that he deserved it. It is a mere farce in many cases.
(Graham was Maud's half brother)
June 5th. 1917 I have no news of any importance.
Of course we are very busy as you can guess. Things are
getting very warm. Have both the Shepherds been killed?
Saw obituary notice of Colonel ---, father of Scottie's wife.
Enclosed you will find a note of congratulation to G --- C---
on getting his M.C.
(David's father, Lieutenant Graham Clarendon-Hyde, appears to have been
awarded the Military Cross, but never mentioned it to his family.
He died at the age of 94.)
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