On This Day, 6 April 1918

Birmingham Mail

Saturday 6 April 1918

THANKS TO MUNITION WORKERS

MR. CHURCHILL AND THE SIX-INCH HOWITZER

Mr. Churchill has sent the following telegram to Mr. Brindley, the manager of the Ponder’s End shell factory, in reply to a telegram informing him of the output of 6in. shells and 6in. howitzer guns from the factory during the week from March 27 to April 3:-

“Considering the very high standard of production consistently maintained at Ponder’s End in ordinary times, the results of your Baster effort, by which your weekly output of shells and guns was nearly doubled, are really wonderful.”

“There is no more popular shell in the British Army than the 6in., and no better weapon than the 6in. howitzer. The effects of this shell, with a very sensitive fuse, upon the German masses in the present battle have been extraordinary.”

“I was told that near Albert last week 150 of these shells wrought indescribable havoc upon a heavy German column. So when you are turning them out in so many thousands you are playing a very direct part in the struggle. Give my hearty thanks to all, and be careful not to let the women overdo themselves.”