December 7

An eye witness account of the King's visit to France is published. Hitherto the visit has been kept secret.

General Christian Beyers, leader of the Boer Rebels against the South African Government, is shot dead while trying to escape from his pursuers crossing the Vaal River. His body is recovered two days later, and with his death the South African rebellion is brought to an end.

December 6

The Battle of Lodz ends with both sides claiming victory. The Russians retain control of Warsaw, and the Germans preventing a Russian offensive into Silesia. However, German forces did not break the Russian lines, whilst the Russians withdraw to form a new and stronger line closer to Warsaw. Casualties on both sides amount to nearly 300,000.

December 5

King George V inspects the Royal Flying Corps and then returns to London.

December 4

King George V confers the Order of the Garter on King Albert.

December 3

King George V, still in France, invests Sir John French with the Order of Merit.

It is announced that Expeditionary Forces from Australia and New Zealand have landed in Egypt to complete their training.

December 2

Austro-Hungarian troops occupy Belgrade, in the Battle of Kolubara.

December 1

General Joffre

King George V visits base hospitals in France containing British, Indian and German wounded. He also visits the British Field Headquarters and the fighting line. The King invests General Joffre with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath.

On the Eastern Front, the Battle of Limanowa commences in the Carpathian mountains. The Russians begin an offensive and try to advance towards the Hungarian plains.

The death of Rear-Admiral Mahan USN, the writer on the influence of sea power in history, is announced.

The 26th Brigade Royal Field Artillery remains refitting and resting in the billeting are to the west of Strazeele. It remains here until 23 December.