General Sir John Monash, Personal Files Book 18, 21 April - 8 May 1918, Part 12

FIRST DRAFT OF PROPOSED SCHEME FOR THE
FORMATION OF A JEWISH INTERNATIONAL HOSPITALITY LEAGUE
LONDON.
Proposed by
Mr Harold Boas,
Jewish Representative,
A.I.F. Depots in U.K.
OBJECTS. The proposal is to establish ∧form in London a committee for the
purpose of establishing a Jewish centre of information, guidance,
and assistance for all Jewish Troops in the U.K., setting out
specifically to cater for the needs of those Troops visiting
London, who have neither friends nor relations on whom to rely:
more especially overseas Troops from America, Canada, New
Zealand, Australia and South Africa.
The proposal will in no way overlap existing Jewish War
Services, but it is desirable it shall form a "Clearing House"
for these existing Services, and will act as a medium by, and
through which soldiers will get into touch, and make use of
these Services. It will act as Guide, Philosopher and Friend,
will be entirely unofficial, and will deal with every aspect,
private and official, of the Jewish soldiers life.
SCOPE. Although centred in London for essentially London work,
its operations can extend throughout every Camp in the U.K.
and to all the main provincial Cities, which are visited by
Troops on leave, or which have large military hospitals. The 

attachment to these outside centres made by representation
referred to later.
AIMS. Its aim will be to foster and preserve the Jewish Spirit,
by providing:-
(1) SERVICE. A close personal, sympathetic, Jewish
touch with individual men.
(2) INFORMATION. Giving information relative to all
Jewish concerns and interests in the U.K.
Religious, Social, Indrustrial etc.
(3) EDUCATION. By the dessemination of Jewish
literature.
WORK. To provide a central Bureau in a prominent London throughfare, 
central to the gateway whereby most soldiers come to,
and leave London,- (Waterloo) and that most frequently used
by overseas Troops,- The Strand.
To collect and disseminate all forms of Jewish and general
information.
To provide at the Bureau a rest, reading and writing room,
and a social and intellextual centre, pervaded but not obtruded
with a religious atmosphere and spirit.
To undertake and carry out guide parties to objects of
special Jewish interest. 

(2)
To provide reception of, and hospitality to Troops on
leave in Jewish homes, particualarly during the important
Festivals.
To undertake the visiting of every Jewish man in Hospital,
and the provision of comforts if necessary.
The dissemination throughout all Camps of Jewish literature.
The setting up of a correspondence with all Jewish Troops,
and if possible the production and distribution of a Jewish
Camp Journal.
The providing for and granting of practical assistance
where necessary to distressed Jewish soldiers.
The securing of prominent Jewish Lecturers for the Centre
and the Camps.
PERSONNEL. The Committee controlling this scheme should be comprised
of a small but enthusiastic body of ladies and gentlemen of
nor more than 12, six of whom should form an inner Executive,
who should be prepared to devote all their time to the conduct
of the concern.
It should have in co-operation with it, a large constituency
of "60 Workers" prepared to:-
(a) Undertake certain hours of duty at the Bureau.
(b) To undertake hospital visitations.
(c) To undertake leadership of guide parties.
(d) General service and assistance.
These co-workers also to be organised in the Provinces
for work:-
(1) In Camps or Towns adjacent thereto.
(2) In the main Cities of the Provinces.
STAFF. The Bureau should start with at least, one Jewish
lady typist.
One Jewish gentleman secretary.
Both voluntary, if possible.
And a Jewish soldier (discharged or disabled) orderly.
 

THE AUSTRALIAN Y.M.C.A.
WITH THE
AUSTRALAIN IMPERIAL FORCE.
HEADQUARTERS:
SALISBURY PLAIN AREA.
60, CATHERINE STREET, SALISBURY.
Telephone 72.
Jewish Department:
HAROLD BOAS,

Jewish Representative
A.I.F. Depots in U.K.
(Authority D.A.G. A.I.F., 39/475)
Dear Friend,
I thought that you would like to know that I have just seen or communicated 

with your son in Camp just prior to and during
Passover leave.
We were fortunately able to secure for the Jewish boys six days leave
for this occasion, and all the boys with the exception of three or four
unfortunate cases who were in isolation for measles, were able to take
advantage of same.
The attached circular letter was sent to each man, and I personally
saw the great bulk of them prior to their departure, and assisted them
with advice and guidance;, and was also able fortunately to help many
men financially to take advantage of the leave. This financial assistance 

came from a few vert kind friends in Australia.
I had made up my mind that no man should be denied his leave for
want of his fare and accommodation whilst in London, and I was able
to do this through the medium of the Jewish Naval & Military Club.
This Club proved a great boon to those men without relatives or friends
in London, and the special thanks of Australian Jewry is due to Mr
Mocatta, the President, and the Committee for their splendid services
to all Overseas Troops.
Provision had been made for the Seder services amd meals on both
nights, and all meals during Passover period were strictly Kosher. I
personally was present on the first night. A correspondent to the
Jewish Chronicle refers to the occasion as follows:-
"Many a Jewish home in the provinces, colonies, and America will
be gladdened when they learn from their soldier sons and brothers
of the Seder services they attended at the Jewish Naval & Military
Association Hostel, 113a, Tottenham Court Road, for the large
number of provincial and overseas men who participated in the
ceremony, and the bountiful repast provided, will assuredly mention
this in their letters. No gathering this Passover could have been
more impressive than this party of khaki men from various parts of
the globe. Most of the guests were accommodated throughout their
short leave in homely fashion on the premises, but as the limited
space did not permit of all sleeping at the Club, arrangements
were made for their comfort near by, whilst some of the Committee
managed to obtain private hospitality for some of the visitors"
During the whole of the leave I was in constant attendance, both
at this club, and at my own Headquarters, where I was able to meet and
assist a graet number of the men. I was able to direct and accompany
xxxxx them to Synagogues and Services. The whole "stunt" worked
smoothly and satisfactorily, and gave general satisfaction to all concerned
I have every reason to be gratified at the result, and thankful to
the Military Authorities for the consideration which was given to these
special Jewish requirements, particularly as the leave coincided with
the great German offensive in France. Assuring you of my continued
interest in the welfare of your boys.
 

Dear Comrade,
Re the forthcoming leave in connection with the Passover
Leave has been granted for 6 days, as from and including
Wednesday March 27th. Details of this leave will be published in
Orders.
It is regretted that it is not possible that leave could be
granted for the full period of the Passover, but you will I am sure,
realise with me that the exigencies of the service these days should
be our first consideration.
At this particular and critical period in the history of the
present war, we must all realise that any leave whatever is a distinct
privilege, and I feel sure that you will all be satisfied with the endevour 

of the Military Authorities to consider the religious needs of the
Jewish men of the Forces.
It will not be necessary to apply personally for this leave
but all that you will be required to do is yo apply for your pass
during the 25th or 26th instant. In the event of any hitch in connection
throwith I should be immediately informed at the above address, and
necessary action will be taken.
During the leave I shall be stationed in London at the Head
Quarters of the Australian Y.M.C.A. Aldwych Theatre, Drury Lane, where
I will be pleased to welcome all Australaian Jewish Troops, and render
advice, guidance, and assistance.
Arrangements are being made in London for extension of hospitality
to any Jewish Troops who have no relations or friends with whom they

could go during Passover. I shall be glad to learn from you immediately
if you desire me to find such accommodation for you.
I would particularly bring under your notice, the very excellent
Club premises at your disposal in the Jewish Naval & Military Club,
113a Tottenham Court Road. Here, accommodation and Koshor food will
be provided at exceptionally low prices, and services will be held on
both the first and second nights Seder, when you are particularly
requested to attend, if you have no home or friends to go to. Please
let me know if you wish to be present on these two occasions. I
shall be in attendance, and will also be at this Club a good deal during
the leave.
The telephone number of the Club is Museum 1176, the telephone
number of my Headquarters, London, is Gerrard 1323, and the telegraphic
address of the later will be "Boas, Austymca, London". My telegraphic
address, at the above address is "Boas, Austymac, Salisbury", and my
telephone number is Salisbury 72.
Any information regarding synagogue and services, I shall be
most happy to give you on application.
In conclusion I desire to say that I fell a very high sense of
satisfaction and appreciation at this further evidence of the thoughtful 

regard which has always been extended by those in authority for
the religious requirements of the Jewish men in His Majesty's Forces,
and I trust you will assist me to reciprocate by showing every
consideration to the needs of the Army at this most critical period of
its existence, bt being perfectly xx satisfied with the concessions
whivh have been granted to you and a strict religious sense of the
obligation which has been placed upon you to comply to the very letter
of the passes which will be issued to you.
In this direction you have my fullest confidence. As in the past,
so I hope to continue always at your entire service.
With kindest regards,
Yours very cordially and fraternally,
 

Dear Comrade.
I am enclosing a little card containing general information about
Y.M.C.A. services to Troops when in London, and also some information regarding 

my own particular Jewish Department which I trust you will be able to
keep on you and use to your advantage as occasion arises.
I send it to you xwith this letter conveying my best wishes
for you in this New Year. with the deepest wish that our best hope
will be fulfilled in that this War shall have ceased ere we reach another y
year, and that we all get be able to proceed to our homes in dear old
sunny Australia.
I want you to realise that this particular Jewish department is
a creation of the Australian Y.M.C.A., and that my services and the
organisation of the whole movement, is at your disposal in any shape
or form in which true Service can be rendered to you in any field in
which you may be operating.
As you know I am confining my operations to the United Kingdom,
but even whilst you may be in France you may through the Australian
Y.M.C.A. or direct seek my advice and assistance.
You will also find in France our Anzac Chaplain who will at
all times be prepared to do anything within his power to assist and
help you. YTo facilitate this work it is necessary to have as complete
and up-to-date a record as possible, and I shall always be glad to receive
from you any information regarding your movements, whether on the Field,
in Hospital or in Camp. By this means I can keep in close touch with
you, and it not only may prove of service to you but is often useful
information for reatives and friends who are daily seeking information
regarding men in the Forces.
I have hopes that the statistics I am now collecting will be
the means of establishing a record of Australian Jewish War Services.
of which we shall all as Jews be proud.
I would therefore ask you tofill in a Registration Card is
enclosed and return it to me, and I shall be glad also if you can advise,
me of any distinctions or promotions which may have come your way, and
I am anxious to collect the photos of every man in the A.I.F., so if
you have one to spare you might let me have it. I entend to have these
published at a latter date book form together with a biographical sketch
of each man's work and record of all other Jewish services.
I am enclosing the copy of a letter sent by our Anzac Jewish
Chaplain to my own Headquarters which will give you an idea of the extent
to which the Australian Y.M.C.A. is prepared to assist you.
I trust that you willanake full use of the services at your disposal
With best of good wishes,
Yours very cordially,
 

March 24th 1918
From
Jewish Representative, A.I.F. Depots in the U.K.
To

Commanding Officer,
Australian Army Ordnance Corps,
Bhurtpore, Tidworth.
Sir,
Granting of leave to Officers and Men of the Jewish Faith
to attend Festivals of Passover.
[Reference Routine Orders 4086a of 18/3/18, 4110a of 20/3/I8
and Routine Orders of this date.)
I submit herewith in conformity with these Orders, the Nominal
Roll of Officers and Men of the Jewish Faith under your command who are
entitled to above leave: i.e. from 8a.m. March 27th to 12 Midnight
April 1st.
The following is a copy of the Order reference to these Nominal
Rolls:-
1. Leave to be granted in accordance with above Orders to all
Officers and Men of the Jewish Faith.
2. Commanding Officers will be advised on Monday March 25th of
all Officers and Men under their command who are entitled to this
leave.
3. Individual applications for this leave will not be necessary,
but special leave passes to be granted in accordance with above
list.
4. Any applications received from Officers and Men other than in
the lists above referred to are to be submitted for approval of Mr
Harold Boas, Aust.Y.M.C.A. Officer, 60 Catherine St. Salisbury;
telephone 72, and leave shall be granted in accordance with his
recommendation.
5. Usual Concession Warrants to be granted in all cases.
6. In all cases, matters for decision respecting this leave
should be referred to Mr Boas.
In view of changes which may have occurred in the personell of
your Camp since these Nominal Rolls were secured, I should be glad if
you would advise me of any cases where men are entitled to this leave
but whose names are not contained on the attached Roll.
In view of the importance of the men reaching their destinations
at 6p.m. at the latest, I should be grateful if every facility could be
given to enable them to secure passes in good time to enable them to
leave Camp at the earliest possible moment.
Your sympathetic consideration will be highly esteemed.
I have the honour to remain, Sir,
Faithfully yours,
Australian Y.M.C.A. Officer.
WA/wm
 

Australian Imperial Force,
FRANCE.
To my Comrades,
It has been my privilege on many fronts to perform the
services of Jewish Chaplain to the members of the Australian
Imperial Force, and now at the urgent request of my congregation
I am returning to Australia.
I am being succeeded by the Reverend J. Danglew. M.A.,
of St. Kilda, who, I am sure, will receive a warm welcome from
all the Troops. Pending his arrival, the duties in France will
be taken over by the Revd. D. Hirsch, Jewish Chaplain to the
British Forces.
In the United Kingdom, Mr. Harold Boas, the Jewish
Representative of the Australian Y.M.C.A. will continue to be
your guide and friend.
In bidding you farewell I am filled with a sense of
gratitude at having been permitted to serve you. It has been
from the first, a source of pride to me to be associated with
you. You belong to the great Commonwealth which has taken its
place by the side of the Mother Country and which is so heriocally
playing its part in the high and sacred cause of liberty and
civilization. I have watched you closely and am proud of the
way in which you have helped to uphold not only the fame of
Australia, but also the good name of your own people.
I leave you with the most earnest prayers that very
soon the peace which will make the Freedom of the World secure
will be won, and that you may be permitted to return to your
loved ones with the consciousness that you have each nobly
striven to do your duty.
May the blessing of Heaven rest with you in all your
undertakings. May God guard and keep you always.
(Signed) D.I. Freedman. 

C.F.
 

About May 1918
Notes for lectures and talks
by Company & platoon Commanders
to their men.
EXTRACT from writhing of Military Correspondent
in German Newspaper "Frankfurter Zeitung."

"It has been repeatedly proved in this war that a successful
attack costs little, if it has been well prepared by the Artillery.

An attack which fails, however, almost always costs a great deal."
This has always been true

These words are true, and they are true, not only of this war,

but of all wars. Because they are true, and because, in consequence.
of existing conditions, we shall have to face the fact that our part
in the war will, ∧ in future consist mainly of attack, we must lay them heart.
The soldier must get them so burnt into his brain that he will
never forget them. He is much safer in offensive operations than
in defensive. In advancing, his chances of being hit are about 10 to 1
against it. In retiring his chances are about 10 to 1 in favour of it.
It is an axiom that if a battalion ∧unit pushes forward in a determined
attack, and if every man makes up his mind to "get there" the losses
will almost certainly be small, to say nothing of the glory of victory.
While ∧On the other hand if the attack is half-hearted, or halts,the losses will be heavy,
to say nothing of the disgrace of defeat, which is inevitable in such
cases.
The great thing is therefore, to push on--never mind that some
fall. Of course some must fall; but for everyone that falls in the
advance, 10 will fall if the advance gets hung up, or becomes a retirement.
And why? For the simple reason that you are fighting against men
who are _∧much more nervous than you are. This makes them afraid to put up 
their heads to shoot, and if they do shoot, their nervousness spoils their
aim; but the moment the attacking force halts or retires wavers, they recover
from their fear and pour in a deadly fire.
It is, therefore, of first importance to keep advancing once the
advance has begun, no matter how many ∧even if some of your comrades fall; for if you
do not, you are pretty sure to fall yourself. It is the only thing to
do for your own safety, and that of your comrades.
Go straight on till you reach your objective. If you do that, your
chances of safety are much greater, and victory is certain. If you
hesitate, or halt, or lie down, or retire, your chances of coming through
are much reduced--in fact, you are pretty certain to be hit.-
Remember _∧that the German soldiers are not _∧ nothing like what they were. Remember that
one British∧ Australian soldier is equal to two Germans as a fighter. Remember _∧that 
the enemy is a good deal more frightened of you than you are of him.
Remember that before ever you _∧are called upon to advance to the attack, the enemy's
nerves _∧ will have been greatly upset by our Artillery tremendous Artillery preparation.
Remember that the only thing that will make ∧would help him _∧to recover his nerves
is hesitation in going for him. or retiring.
 

2/5/18

9^th.       10^th

Indecipherable - scribbled out see original document

See Hobbs or Peck
re 29th of 8th Bde to wire out
from J.30.c.3.7
to J.30.l.2.7
on night May 4/5
9th Bde
Night 5/6 - Zero - about 9 to 9.30.
Medical - for night 5/6 ([[Vieller??]])
Artillery - See C.R.A.
Nicholls to go down.
Tell C.R.E, 'D' co.
Div order -