MonthlyReports

20-Aug-15

Recent troop movements

As expected, the rump of the Anatolian re-inforcements arrived early August. Estimated between 4 and 6 battalions, generally high morale and disciplined. Activity at the station was even more chaotic than normal suggesting a very hasty departure. No heavy artillery or cavalry present and no more than 3 batteries of the newer 77mm guns.

Arriving on foot was the less impressive 45th (?) Division. Estimated approx 5000 men. No artillery, no cavalry and poorly equipped. From uniforms, looks like mixed Jendarma and border guards and the city Jendarma is looking pretty depleted and inexperienced so indications are that we are near the bottom of the barrel with the current conscription. Morale not great and training either ineffective or incomplete.

In the city the 36th Reserves have been training hard but talk amongst the men is pretty pessimistic and some obvious signs of desertion. This division will crumble in tough conditions.

Arab militia is being paid by the day and completely unreliable. Prisons are emptying fast.

Some signs of tension between VdG staff officers and the Ottoman command, relationships look fragile under pressure.

The last train to arrive was an ammunition train though from the motley collection on parade there is a severe shortage of rifles.

Preparation for manouevres

Almost all preparations are for a counter-attack with carts, mules, horses and boats being requisitioned. This is not popular. Some defences being prepared but the Tigris goes right round the city and protection against gunboats is almost impossible without closing all river traffic.

There are approx 5 river steamers and 20 barges being prepared and this is probably the most they'll get. Estimate sufficient to carry 2 brigades and insufficient to transport the wounded.

Some mule transport being assembled as well as hundreds of water carriers, many recently constructed or bought. Assuming 1 ton of water each and each soldier consuming 1 gallon per day, they will need 25 water carriers per division per day.

General morale and recent events

Activities in the city

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