Indian soldiers unload a wagon. The caption on the back refers to the soldiers helping the Allies by 'unloading their baggage,' but Indian soldiers fought on their own. © American Press Assciation
Reverse:India's army which is helping the allies unloading their baggage. (C) American Press AssociationSEP 14 1914
"Ever since our position in the French line was altered by the advance of General Maunoury's Sixth Army to the river Ourcq, I have been anxious to regain my original position on the left flank of the French armies. On several occasions I have thought of suggesting this move, but the strategical and tactical situation from day to day has made the proposal inopportune. Now, however, that the position of affairs has become clearly defined, and that the immediate future can be forecasted with some confidence, I wish to press the proposal with all the power and insistence which are at my disposal. The moment for the execution of such a move appears to me to be singularly opportune."
Beginning of a proposal from British Commander Sir John French to French Commander-in-Chief Joffre on September 29, 1914. French's army would soon be augmented by British and Indian infantry and cavalry divisions. Joffre's reply of the next day agrees with French's desire to be on the left end of the line, but provides a more considered schedule for the move.
1914 by John French, page 167, copyright © 1919, by Houghton Mifflin Company, publisher: Houghton Mifflin Company, publication date: 1919
Sir John French, Joffre, September, 1914, 1914-09-29, Indian Army, Indian Soldier, India
