Western Front
“Repulse” of “strong German local attacks” in Champagne, near Verdun, in the Woevre, and in Lorraine.
Germany: Final council of war on Operation Michael at German GHQ Avesnes. Record (so far) 190 German divisions in theatre.
Iron Cross markings ordered changed to
Balkenkreuze (Greek Cross) as from April 15.
On this Fokker Dr.I Triplanes the new ‘Balkenkreuz’ is visible on the top of the wings:
https://i2.wp.com/ww2-weapons.com/w...start.jpg?ssl=1
Britain: Hugh Trenchard tenders resignation but retained till April 15.
Western Front: French capture German observation balloon with (bogus) documents revealing Roland offensive for March 26 in Champagne.
German soldiers gathering at St. Quentin, France before the Spring Offensive on the Western Front: © IWM (Q 55480):
https://twitter.com/CenturyAgoToday...802863518736385
Naval and Overseas Operations
Allied Blockade Committee formed.
Eastern Mediterranean: Allied convoy loses 4 ships to U-boat north of Alexandria, warning of its presence not received.
Political, etc
Germany:
Reichstag debates Army seizure of Daimler (Stuttgart).
United Kingdom: Sir E. Geddes, speaking in House of Commons, gives figures relating to submarine warfare and shipbuilding (world shipping tonnage fell 8% in 1917, Britain’s by 20%), and announces that Lord Pirrie is to be Controller-General of Merchant Shipbuilding, soon improves repair procedure for damaged ships.
Mr. A. Henderson declares that Labour cannot accept peace of Brest-Litovsk.
COAL, GAS AND ELECTRICITY RATIONING INTRODUCED; theatres to close at 10.30pm, restaurants at 10pm.
Romania: M. Alexandru Marghiloman, Romanian Prime Minister.
United States: Dutch ships in ports of the U.S. seized by Government.
Christening of the Ferris-type wooden boat at Harrison, New Jersey. Large wooden boats capable of trans-Atlantic travel were constructed due to steel shortages:
https://twitter.com/CenturyAgoToday...742465662771202