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The Champagne Truckers: Mick Twemlow and the Transport of British Soldiers to the Front Lines in World War I

Mikhail Bulgakov

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Published in The Champagne Truckers Mick Twemlow

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During the First World War, the British Army relied heavily on motor transport to keep its soldiers supplied and moving to the front lines. One of the most important and dangerous jobs was that of the "Champagne Truckers," who drove lorries loaded with explosives and ammunition through the thick of the fighting. Mick Twemlow was one of these brave men, and his story is a fascinating glimpse into the realities of war.

Early Life and Career

Mick Twemlow was born in 1881 in the small village of Mottisfont, Hampshire, England. He left school at a young age and went to work as a farm laborer. In 1904, he joined the Army Service Corps, where he served for five years.

The Champagne Truckers

by Mick Twemlow

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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When the First World War broke out in 1914, Twemlow was immediately called up to duty. He was assigned to the 1st Army Motor Transport Company, which was responsible for transporting troops and supplies to the front lines.

The Champagne Truckers

In 1915, Twemlow's unit was sent to France to participate in the Battle of the Somme. The Somme was one of the bloodiest battles of the war, and the lorry drivers were constantly under fire. Twemlow's job was to drive a lorry loaded with ammunition to the front lines. He would often have to drive through shell-fire and over rough terrain.

The Champagne Truckers were so named because they often transported champagne to the troops in the trenches. This was a dangerous job, as the champagne trucks were often targeted by German artillery.

Twemlow was one of the most experienced and respected drivers in his unit. He was known for his courage and determination, and he was always willing to go the extra mile to get his supplies to the front lines.

Awards and Recognition

Twemlow was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery during the Battle of the Somme. He was also mentioned in dispatches several times.

After the war, Twemlow returned to England and worked as a lorry driver. He died in 1967 at the age of 86.

Legacy

Mick Twemlow was one of the many unsung heroes of the First World War. His bravery and dedication helped to ensure that the British Army had the supplies it needed to fight the war.

The Champagne Truckers are an example of the vital role that motor transport played in the First World War. Thanks to their efforts, the British Army was able to keep fighting and eventually win the war.

Mick Twemlow's story is a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who fought in the First World War. Their bravery and dedication helped to ensure that the world would be a safer place for future generations.

The Champagne Truckers

by Mick Twemlow

4.5 out of 5