John Henry Leslie (1858–1943)
18 June 1915: the centenary of the Battle of Waterloo: how it was observed by the Royal Regiment of Artillery
Woolwich: printed at the Royal Artillery Institution Printing House, 1916
1916.11.159, frontispiece

On the first page of the booklet, the method adopted for the acts of commemoration was explained:

‘It was felt that something ought to be done in the Regiment to mark the 100th anniversary of the battle of Waterloo.

Accordingly a scheme was set on foot with a view to placing wreaths of flowers on the graves of Officers and Men of the R.A., who fought in the battle, i.e., as far as such graves or monuments could be discovered. The scheme was only launched on 1 June, but between then and the 18th, the situation of 40 graves was ascertained, and another has been found since 18 June.

Arrangements were made for persons in each of these localities—Artillery Officers, as far as possible, or their relatives—to place the flowers upon, or near, the graves, monuments, etc. It was left to the persons in charge of this service at each place to arrange such ceremonial as was practicable and convenient.

The wreaths were composed of laurel leaves, charged with cornflowers (or dark blue iris) and red roses.

They were despatched to their several destinations by parcel post on 17 June, nor was there a single failure of delivery at the proper time and place, on the 18th.

To each wreath was attached a white card, printed in red and blue. (See frontispiece).

The figure of the artilleryman on the card was drawn by E. A. P. Hobday, R.A.’

Red and blue are the colours of the Royal Artillery.