Paris, June 7.
"When the battle of the Somme Jbegan on Wednesday, our attacking squadrons were in action in the small hours of the day and did not cease to harass marching. columns, tanks and motorized forces of the enemy," states the latest French Air Ministry communique.
"With admirable courage, Jand keenness, our crews continued their operations throughout yester= @ay morning and afternoon, in close ce-operation with fand' forces. Far-reaching effects of these actions were observed at numerous points.
"Many direct hits were registered. The destruction of convoys, and considerable damage caused by the explosion of our bombs, was observed.
"Our fighters made a great numther of fights, accompanying bombing expeditions, and protecting supply operations.' Many combats occurred, the results of which have not yet been ascertained. It is confirmed, however, that on Wednesday, more than 40 enemy planes were brought down.
Wer 150 tons of explosives have been dropped on the battle front jand in the enemy's rear. Observation and reconnaissance patrols were jective in exploring back areas, reporting troop movements, and objectives on the battlefield" the communique coneludes.—Reuter.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.