Home > Europe > France > Military
British Runner crossing No Mans Land; First World War, 1
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
British Runner crossing No Mans Land; First World War, 1
Illustration showing a British runner carrying messages across No Mans Land under enemy shell-fire, France, 1916. Under the etiquette employed by British runners they were allowed to run when being shot at with rifles, but could only walk when shell-fire was landing nearby
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4392439
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10220138
Allowed Crossing Employed Enemy Landing Messages Nearby Rifles Shell Shot Walk
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative illustration depicts a brave British runner, dressed in a heavy greatcoat and carrying a backpack filled with vital messages, making his way across No Man's Land during the First World War. No Man's Land was the dangerous and constantly shifting strip of land between the opposing trenches, where soldiers from both sides were exposed to enemy fire. The runner is shown in the midst of this treacherous terrain, with the ominous clouds of enemy shell-fire looming in the background. Despite the intense danger, the runner remains focused and determined, his eyes fixed on his destination. Under the etiquette employed by British runners during this period, they were allowed to run when being shot at with rifles, but could only walk when shell-fire was landing nearby. This rule was based on the belief that the runner could outrun bullets but not shell fragments. The importance of these runners cannot be overstated. They played a crucial role in the communication between the British and French forces, carrying messages and orders back and forth across the battlefield. Their bravery and dedication helped to keep the lines of communication open, even in the most chaotic and dangerous of conditions. This illustration, which was created in 1916 and is part of the ILLUSTRATIONS LIMITED collection at Mary Evans Prints Online, offers a powerful and poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers during the First World War. It is a testament to the courage and resilience of those who served on the front lines and the vital role that communication played in the outcome of the war.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
