RECRUITING.
Mixed at the time of its formation, the division is actually recruited in the 11th Corps District (Electorate of Hesse and Thuringia), and is so designated in various documents. Beginning with March 13, 1917, it has received young men of the 1918 class who have less than four months’ training (236th Reserve Infantry Regiment).
VALUE—1917 ESTIMATE.
The 51st Reserve Division was good at the beginning of the war, but now appears mediocre.
Health conditions seem to be poor (August, 1917).
1918.
Champagne.
1. The 51st Reserve Division remained in the Vouziers being trained until about the 20th of January, when it relieved the 52d Division near the Butte du Mesnil. It was relieved early in March and went to the Vouziers-Rethel area, where it received some more training in open warfare.
Picardy.
2. On the 20th it entrained, and arrived at Etreux (north of Guise) the following day. From there it marched via St. Quentin-Ham-Roye-Faverolles to Montdidier, where it arrived on the 30th. The following day it reenforced the front near Ayencourt (south of Montdidier), relieving the 9th Division. It was relieved by the 2d Division during the night of the 1st-2d of May and went to rest in the Chimay area.