4th November 1914, posted to 12th Service Battalion of the Rifle Brigade

On 4th November 1914, Cameron was appointed Temporary Second Lieutenant, posted to the 12th Service Battalion of the Rifle Brigade. His brother-in-law Ashley Smith had helped secure this commission. He was instructed to report for duty at Cowshott, Aldershot.



The early days were chaotic with very few trained officers and NCOs to command the new volunteers and no organised billets or equipment. In February 1915, the Division moved to Witley, Godalming and Guildford, and the artillery went by train since there was insufficient harness for the horses. This was followed by a move to Salisbury Plain in April 1915.

"The Division was inspected by King George V at Knighton Down on 24 June 1915, by which time all equipment had arrived and the Division was judged ready for war."

"On 26 July 1915, the Division completed concentration in the Saint-Omer area, all units having crossed to France during the preceding few days. Early trench familiarisation and training took place in the Fleurbaix area."

The Division would serve on the Western Front for the remainder of the war, taking part in many of the significant actions, especially the battles of the Somme in 1916.

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