Breaking the Hindenburg Line
Introductory Chapter
Outline of the previous history of the 46th (North Midland) Division in the war
In writing this introductory chapter it should at once be stated that it is not in any way intended to be a history of the Division since its arrival in France, nor does it attempt to do justice to the bravery and tenacity exhibited at all times during the years it was on the Western front. It is just an attempt to outline its doings and movements from the time of its mobilization until, in September 1918, it joined the Fourth Army.
The 46th Division, which was responsible for what was described in the Press as the “Miracle of the War,” and whose exploits during the “Hundred Days” are described in the following chapters, is one of the pre-war Territorial Divisions.
In days of peace it was known as the North Midland Division, and was composed of men from the counties of Derby, Nottingham, Lincoln, Leicester, and Stafford. It was then commanded by Major-General the Hon. E. J. Montagu-Stuart-Wortley, C.B., C.M.G., M.V.O., D.S.O.
On the outbreak of war the Division mobilized, its
