HAPPY DAYS IN FRANCE AND FLANDERS

This book provides a marvellous insight into the life and role of a (RC) chaplain on the Western Front. The author was known, in the 47th Division, by the nickname of “Happy Days”on account of his unquenchable optimism. The introduction, written by Lt R.C.Feilding, Coldstream Guards, a battalion CO in the 47th Division and author of War Letters to a Wife, writes: “He seemed to live in a world of sunshine, destitute of shadows. He carried out his duties as he faced the sordid horrors of the battlefield with a child-like simplicity, inspiring the living, and comforting with his faith the parting moments of many a dying soldier.” Fr Benedict arrived in France in May 1917 and was attached to 1/5th DW in the 49th Division, subsequently moving to the 47th Division He went right through to the Armistice. His descriptions of his work and of the battlefields where his duties called him are vivid and, at times, very moving, particularly when he attended the execution of a young soldier, who can now be identified as Pte P.Murphy, 47 Bn, MG Corps, shot on 12 Sep 1918. This is an excellent book and highly recommended