But before leaving the Fourth Army, to which the 17th had given such brilliant service, the following message was transmitted to the Battalion as one of the Divisional units concerned:—
Fourth Army, No. G.S.702.
"32nd Division.
"As the Division will shortly be leaving the Fourth Army I desire to express to all ranks my warm thanks for the excellent services they have performed whilst under my command. The gallantry and dash displayed by the Division during the advance in March and April, especially in the actions resulting in the capture of Savy, Bois de Savy, Francilly, Holnon, Selency, Fayet and Cepy Farm, reflect the highest credit on all concerned.
"The skilful leadership of all ranks, coupled with the close co-operation between Artillery, Infantry and Aircraft, was a feature in these operations deserving the highest praise, and I heartily congratulate the Division on the successes they have achieved.
"I much regret that the Division is now leaving the Fourth Army, but I shall hope that at some future date I may again have the good fortune to find them under my command.
"(Signed) H. RAWLINSON, General,
Commanding Fourth Army.
"H.Q., Fourth Army,
"22nd May, 1917."