Left Marker For The King

On Thursday 24th June 1915, Sydney Fuller of 8th Suffolk, wrote in his dairy; 
"Marched to Wilsford for an inspection, or review, by the King. This was not far from Stonehenge and the whole of the 18th Division were present. Arrived at our destination about 11.00am and formed up. I was left marker for No. 12 platoon.  The King arrived about 2.30pm. We presented arms and then the King inspected us by riding along the front at a respectable distance. We then marched past in double platoons (two companies abreast). The Band of the 10th Essex (The only brass band in 53rd Brigade) supplied the necessary music"
Although Fuller didn't know it, the King's visit was a precursor to the Battalion getting ready to proceed overseas. They had by now received almost all of their uniform and equipment. The last items of civilian kit which the men had held onto such as mackintoshes and boots, were boxed and returned home. They had drilled and trained - most recently in Brigade formations and now, the last of the weekend leaves were being granted. Everyone at Codford knew the great day was getting closer. 

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