Fortunino Matania, R.I. (1881-1963)

"A squad of stretcher bearers, which is usually ten in number, has been in the trench with the men, occupying the position shown above. They are now proceeding to render first aid to the wounded and to remove them on stretchers where necessary to the second line of bearers, who are at some little distance in the rear. Usually this work takes place in the dusk or at full night-time. On this occasion, however a successful advance has been accomplished, and the British troops are now occupying the line of captured German trenches. Their own are, therefore, being cleared of wounded. These men will be carried by the second section of bearers down to a position where they will be met by Red Cross ambulance cars, which will speedily convey them to hospital. They are not always out of danger even in these fast-running cars."