Officers who returned from Italy with the Regt.
Officers serving with the Regt on 23rd February

15th May – Lt General Bucknell GOC 30 Corps visited and walked the camp talking to individuals.

19th May – HRH The Duke of Gloucester visited and inspected the men at their waterproofing.

24th May – The Regt was inspected for the first time, since his appointment as Colonel of the Regiment, by Brigadier Sir AF Home KCVO CB CMG DSO. The Regt was drawn up by Sqns on ASHRIDGE GOLF course and after his inspection the Regt formed a hollow square and Brig Home addressed them. He had lunch in the Officers Mess and after lunch was photographed with the officers and Sgts.

Technical Officer	Capt RE Barnett MBE
Signals Officer	Lt JS Champion
Intelligence Officer	Lt RAK MacAllan

The Regt was formed in four parties for the operations in France as follows:-

A (D+2)
Lt DAF Williamson A Sqn, Lt JD Burridge B Sqn, Lt DA Creaton C Sqn, Lt GH Newton D Sqn.
This party left ASHRIDGE camp on 20th May and proceeded to a marshalling area at BRENTWOOD.

B (D+3)
Tac RHQ, C & D Sqns.
This party left ASHRIDGE camp at 0330 hrs on 3rd June and proceeded to WANSTEAD FLATS.

C (D+8)
Major RHFP Stuart French, B Sqn and RHQ, B1 & B2.

D (+17)
A Sqn and the remainder of RHQ.

Few changes had taken place in the Sqn since leaving Italy. Capt JAN Crankshaw MC had left to form and command D Sqn taking Capt GJ Lovett as his 2i/c. Lts RAK MacAllan and ME Wild also left for D Sqn and Lt JS Champion went to RHQ. Sgt McHardy DCM became SSM of D Sqn and Sgts Keen and Harmer and several others also left. Capt JA Friend rejoined as 2i/c as did Lt JR Ballingal MC. SSM Trumper MM and SQMS Emery remained in office.
Sqn establishment remained much as before and the line-up was:-

1Tp Lt JDA Woodhouse,

2Tp Lt OM Wentworth Stanley,

3Tp Lt JR Ballingal MC

4Tp Lt JAS Barkworth (recently joined from Sherwood Foresters.)

5Tp Lt DA Creaton

6Tp Lt J Gale (Scout Tp)

7Tp Lt RN Brett Smith (Gun Tp )

A Sqn.

Sqn left ASHRIDGE composed as under:-

Major J Turnbull MC

Capt H Petch MC DCM

SSM S Drew

1Tp Sgt Green

2Tp Lt RD Sutton, Sgt Hall

3Tp Lt DAF Williamson, Sgt Gibson

4Tp Lt GH Hodgkinson, Sgt Murray

5Tp Lt KL Osborne, Sgt Gullick

6Tp Lt WM Donald, Lt GR Micklem, Sgt Fitzpatrick

7Tp Lt WGG Hunt, Sgt Turner.

Lt DAF Williamson went on the advance party and rejoined the Sqn at ST ANDRE.

D Sqn.

Sqn Organisation:-

Major JAN Crankshaw

Capt GJ Lovett

SSM McHardy DCMS

QMS Barnes

1Tp Lt RGG Copeland (with 2Lt M Hickman under instruction), Sgt Cooper.

2Tp Sgt Lyon MM and Sgt Fulcher.

3Tp Lt GH Newton (with 2Lt Llewellen-Palmer under instruction) and Sgt Addis.

4Tp Sgt Keen and Sgt Peckett.

5Tp Lt PWR Sexty (attached from Sherwoods) and Sgt Luke

6Tp (Whites) Lt RH Moore (with 2Lt Horsfall under inst) and Sgt Stewart.

7Tp (75mm) Lt ME Wild, Sgt Andrews and Sgt Skarrett.

B1 Sgt Harmer

B2 Sgt Greensides.

Vehicles
3 Staghound ACs, 11 Daimler ACs, 10 Daimler Scout cars, 3 Humber Scout cars, 4 White Scout cars, 2 White half-track with 75mm guns and a normal complement of B vehicles.

C Sqn.
1, 2, 3, 4 & 6Tps HQ Tp and a small B Echelon embarked at London Docks for the Second Front, 5Tp having left shortly before due to land a day before, while Gun Tp and remainder were due to follow later.

B Sqn.
D Day at last, and the long awaited invasion of Hitler’s fortress begins. Apart from the news the only indication of the war was the incredible number of aircraft, most of them Dakotas carrying parachutists or towing gliders, that were doing a shuttle service overhead. However B Sqn continued modifications with every morning somebody producing a new idea; every idea of course required yards of unobtainable sheet metal so the LAD were flogged to a standstill. If the modification craze had gone on for much longer, our team of drivers, working as fitters, would have demanded pay as such. Violent football matches were also played.

B Sqn.
The Sqn left ASHRIDGE at 0230 hrs to drive to our marshalling area prior to embarking. An Armd Car Sqn is now a much larger formation than before with 48 vehicles and 3 M/Cs and 143 all ranks including 9 officers. The Sqn consisted of:

-1 Scout Tp of 2 Daimler scout cars and 5 White scout cars.

’75 Tp of one Humber scout car and two half-track Whites mounting 75mm guns.

Sqn HQ of 3 Staghound ACs, 2 HSCs, 1 DSC, 1 spare Daimler AC, 1 Humber AA car, 1 Jeep and 1 staff car.

4Tp	5Tp	75mm Tp2
Lt RA Flood	Lt RCT Sivewright	Lt EAI Young
Sgt Bull MM	Sgt Orchard	Sgt Matheson
Cpl Trusswell	Cpl Riani	Cpl Edwards
Tpr Goodwin	LCpl Lloyd	LCpl Jenner
Tpr Waister	Tpr Robinson	LCpl Hodgson
Tpr Peters	Tpr Stanier	Tpr Bailey
Tpr Jones ’91	Tpr Limb	Tpr Hop???
Tpr Roberts ’79	Tpr Davies	Tpr Robinson ’49
		Tpr Gear
		Tpr Norris ’14

Scout Tp
Lt ATR Nicholson	Tpr White	Tpr Skidmore
Sgt Gardiner	Tpr Humphrey	Tpr Hughes ’99
Cpl Short	Tpr Moore	Tpr Norton
Cpl Grey	Tpr Symons	Tpr Sanders
Cpl Baguloy	Tpr Pearson	LCpl Malkinson
LCpl Hawkin	Tpr Philps	Tpr Marshall
LCpl Clarke	Tpr Stringer	Tpr Keeling
Tpr Procter	Tpr Morris	Tpr Pipes
Tpr Phillips	Tpr Roberts ’20

Sqn HQ
Major A Reid Scott	LCpl Oakes	Tpr Lewis
Capt T O’B Horsford	LCpl Lan-Yin	Tpr Goodwin ’38
SSM Board MM	LCpl Mills	Tpr Wilton
Sgt Cobley	Tpr Maynard	Tpr Flint
Cpl Allen	Cpl Hornsby	Tpr Leach ’92
LCpl May	LCpl Dunsden (Tech)	Tpr North
LCpl Haines	Tpr Hayward	Tpr McDougall
LCpl Byard (RSigs)	Tpr Worthington	Tpr Roberts ’62

B1 Echelon
Office Truck	Petrol Lorry	Fitters Lorry	Charging Lorry
LCpl Robinson	Cpl Evans	LCpl Oliver (fitter)	Sig Martin (dvr)
Tpr Raynes	Tpr Keen	LCpl Swinsese (elec)	Sig Nebes
	Tpr Homesey	LCpl Willetts (Tech)	Sig Davidson

B2 Echelon
SQMS Truck	Cooks Lorry	Petrol Lorry	Amn Lorry	Water Truck
SQMS Smith	Cpl McTavish	Tpr Mekes	Tpr Stokes	Sgt Freeman
LCpl Whittington	Tpr Hickford	Tpr Jordan	LCpl King	Tpr Gabbitass
Tpr Pinkney	Tpr McMaster	Tpr Hodges	Tpr Holmes
	Tpr Harknott

B3 Echelon				Spare Dingo
Sgt Street	Cpl Purkiss	Tpr Leach ’38		Cpl Spencer
Tpr Tassell (boot repr)	Tpr Goddard	Tpr Merrity		Cpl Hughes
Tpr Gilmour				LCpl Cowell
Tpr Stevens				DRs
				Tpr Blackmare
				Tpr Coughlan
				Tpr Harker

Lt Burridge with LCpl Gormally had left ASHRIDGE on about 20th May to go on a small Regtl advance party due to land on D+2.
After a tiresome drive through the suburbs of London, mostly in second gear, we arrived at our marshalling area – No 7 – at PURFLEET. Certain members of the Sqn including the Sqn Ldrs operator were able to say their final goodbyes to sweethearts despite the fact that we were so confined that the place was called STALAG IX.
It was now brought back to us with a jerk that we were really about to leave ENGLAND. We had two days in the marshalling area; the final stage of waterproofing was completed.

C Sqn.
Arrived off French coast opposite small village of CONSEULLES, Normandy, by first light. Unloading of ships was behind hand due to bad weather on previous day. Two loads of LCTs were landed before dark and a further two left for shore just after dark but were delayed in the 1000 yard journey by an air raid and the artificial fog laid down by the Navy on these occasions. The AA was most impressive and there was a large fire a short way inland. Our LCT got us within 15 yards of dry land and put us into 3’ 6” of water which was successfully waded by all except for one lorry which went into a shell hole and over 6 ft of water. A Dingo had the same misfortune the next day and went out of sight but was fished out by the Beach Grp who did great work. Both vehicles rejoined the following day, 3Tp also joined up.

C Sqn.
Remainder of Sqn landed and concentrated area RYES (8584).

C Sqn.
In the evening Sqn moved forward through BAYEUX to 808778 to take part in the advance the following day.

B Sqn.
At 0630 hrs the Sqn accompanied by part of RHQ and the C & D Sqn 75’s left the marshalling area for the West INDIA DOCKS where we started loading at 0830 hrs into T29 a Liberty Ship. There were no quarters for officers and men and everyone was very crowded; there were practically no messing arrangements and we had to make do with what we could get from the tiny galley.
By 1800 hrs everything was safely on board and we pushed off down the river and anchored off SOUTHEND where we remained for 2 days. The only thing to do was sleep in the sun and the soldiers enjoyed having nothing to do for a change. SSM Board was appointed Ship’s Sgt Major.. a good novelty was a new type of soup in ‘self heating’ tins; a cigarette could light cylindrical wick which heated the soup in two minutes; supposed to be used by guerrilla troops when unable to ‘brew up’, they worked just as well on a ship.
Suspected mines in the estuary and delay in off loading on the French side prevented out sailing.

C Sqn.
The plan was for the 7th Armd Div to advance down two tracks on the left through TILLY-SUR-SEULLES and SENAUDIERE towards VILLERS BOCAGE; for the Americans on the right to advance on CAUMONT from BALLEROY. C Sqn was to advance down the two tracks between LA BELLE EPINE and LA BUTTE. 50th Div could not quite make their objective of main road BALLEROY – TILLY SUR SEULLES having been counter attacked by tanks. 7th Armd Div tried to force the way down to the main road but were held up by unexpected opposition. 1Tp & 5Tp who were carrying out the Sqn role also advanced with 5Tp leading down through BERNIERES BOCAGE towards La SENAUDIERE. They encountered some of our own troops held up by some unknown opposition which 5Tp decided to test. The dingo led and advanced some way but was then fired on by A/Tk and MG fire at close range. 2Lt Esch in command of the Dingo made use of smoke and fired his twin K guns at the enemy with results that were unobserved but were sufficient to enable the Tp to withdraw unscathed. The A/Tk gun was on the road at the corner of the wood at 786693 and thereby prevented one reaching the start points of our tracks. 5Tp was therefore left to watch the road and 1Tp and 4Tp went back and round through FOLLIOT 8161 and across the river AURE.Meanwhile 7th Armd Div had been held up by strong opposition on both axes while the Americans had met with little or no resistance. 7th Armd Div was therefore moved on to our front through LA BUTTE 7969. I was trying to pass through LA BELLE EPINE and was held up in that area by Infantry across the road just South and was heavily shelled without result. Following reports of snipers in the area of SHQ a scout car patrolled the neighbourhood and searched the houses. They arrested a deserter from the German Army wearing civilian clothes. Later they found his uniform, paybook and rifle. He was handed over to Div HQ and dealt with.
During the afternoon 7th Armd Div advanced South through ST HONORINE DE DUCY to LA PAUMSENE and our role was changed to left flank guard. 3Tp went down the American axis to 3 miles then later 2 miles North of CAUMONT. 2Tp branched right to MITRECAEN and 4Tp went to LA CHAPELLE area. 3Tp reported enemy troops, A/Tk guns in CAUMONT. Other Tps made no contact.
Sqn HQ moved down to FOULOGNES, 1Tp and 5Tp were called into reserve, 2Tp and 3Tp remained in position for the night. The Americans put in an Infantry attack on CAUMONT shortly before dark which was not entirely successful though the capture was completed the following day.

D Sqn.
Moved at 1500 hrs to 840713. The Regt is now under 7th Armd Div once again. Moved on by devious route at 1900 hrs to LE MESNIL 820646. The CO returned at 2300 hrs and Sqn received orders to move at 0845 hrs 13th June.
Plan was to capture VILLERS BOCAGE, 4th CLY to advance from LA PAUMERIE to LIVRY to BRICQUESARD and down main road to VILLERS BOCAGE. This road was the 7th Armd Div axis. The Sqn was ordered to carry out flank protection and observation. 4Tp Sgt Keen was broken down at the previous halt and was not repaired in time to reach us on the 12th.

C Sqn.
Following a brief conference at RHQ at 0500 hrs 5 and 4Tp left to left flank guard to the Div directed on ANCTOVILLE 7760 and ST GERMAIN D’ECTOT 7762 respectively; to take over from D Sqn patrol in that area. They both met up in the outskirts and both reported enemy and road blocks in the villages. The enemy did not appear to be in strength or to be expecting our arrival. 4Tp reported 2 SP guns in D’ECTOT and 5Tp reported Infantry in ANCTOVILLE. Lt Creaton had been to expect the road block on foot and flushed 3 Germans from a ditch only 4 yards away, but they made the cover of a house before they could be engaged. A scout section tried to confirm a certain report of 2 tanks in the middle of the village but they were fired on by MG from some houses and had to withdraw. The Tp was also sniped from the extremely dense hedges on either side of the road but without effect.
2Tp had meanwhile advanced to the North to LE PONT MULOT 7463 area. He observed and reported a Mark IV special tank only 400 yards away to his NE. It did not take action against the Tp but shortly afterward KO’d two 8th Hussars tanks and was then compelled to withdraw itself by Arty fire.
The two SPs at ECTOT engaged 4Tp who had to withdraw a short way. SHQ meanwhile had advanced to LIVRY 7361. At midday a fourth patrol was called for in CAHAGNES 7656 area. 3Tp left to do this, and shortly after joined a D Sqn patrol which had just had a successful action destroying two half-track troop carriers. Both Troops were fired on by an 8-wheel AC probably with 75mm which had one ineffective shot and withdrew. 3Tp remained in the area which was extremely dense with visibility often limited to the hedge on the side of the road only two yards away. Snipers, MGs and mortars continually stalked the Tp through the corn and long grass. The scout section was dismounted to try and locate a sniper about 100 yards away. Two men, L/Sgt Davies and Tpr Brady crawled through a cornfield to the hedge about 100 yards from the Tp. Unfortunately they had passed through a Coy of German Infantry without seeing them or being seen and shortly afterwards were surrounded and captured. They were disarmed and sent to the rear escorted by a soldier with a rifle. As soon as they were clear of the enemy troops they attacked and overpowered this man and brought him back to our lines. His Regt was identified as 304th Panzer Grenadiers which confirmed the presence of 2nd Panzer Div on this front; it only having gained contact with us this morning. L/Sgt Davies gained a mention in the Div Int Summary the following day for this exploit. 3Tp were continually attacked for more than 3 hours by Infantry crawling through the crops and had to be sent a refill of ammunition.
4Tp meanwhile had returned to D’ECTOT to investigate moves in that area and found that the village had been reinforced and the roadblock mined. Suddenly the leading car was knocked out by the first shot from an A/Tk gun right through the engine; the crew got out but the commander, Sgt Graham, was severely wounded in the leg by a second shot. The driver, Tpr Dixon, and gunner, Tpr Myers, assisted him into a house nearby. Tpr Dixon remained with him and Tpr Myers having applied a tourniquet, returned to the Tp with a bullet hole through the font of his trouser leg and a shrapnel hole through the back. 3, 4 & 5Tp were continuously in action against snipers and MGs from the sides of the roads. Large quantities were fired in return, but it was difficult to spot a target and impossible to observe results.
By 1900 hrs the enemy were approaching the Bde axis and shortly after cut it. 1Tp moved down the axis towards AMAYE SUR SEULLES where it was cut. They quickly gained contact to the South of the road but were forced gradually to withdraw to avoid a threat of the road being cut to their North as well.
1Tp and 3Tp at last light were in BRICQUESARD 7459 and they and 5Tp joined SHQ about 1 mile to the North for the night. 4Tp remained on the track with the Norfolk Yeomanry who were holding it to the West of his duty position. The night was comparatively quiet and our role for the following day was the same – left flank guard to the 1st RTR who were to reopen the axis to the remainder of 22nd Armd Bde.

B Sqn.
At 2200 hrs we at last set sail in a great convoy of ships and landing craft of many sorts, each flying a large balloon, which sometimes fouled each other. We expected to have a few shells whistling over from the coastal guns in the Straits of Dover, but were disappointed and had a quiet night.

D Sqn.
Troops were ordered to proceed as follows:-3Tp Lt Newton with 4th CLY as far as BRICQUESARD 740594 then branch right to CAMAGNES.
2Tp Sgt Lyon to go with 3Tp and try and get down track from BRICQUESARD to the CAUMONT rd North of CAMAGNES.
As the advance proceeded 2Tp and 3Tp were to proceed down the main CAUMONT – VILLERS BOCAGE road by bounds, picketing the junctions to observe movement from the SW endangering the axis. The 8th Hussars were moving to BRICQUESARD then SE along the secondary road running parallel to the axis, in between the axis and the main road.
5Tp Lt Sexty to proceed to LIVRY with 4th CLY and move left to ST GERMAIN D’ECTOT as left flank protection.
1Tp Lt Copeland to proceed to BRICQUESARD and then left to ANCTOVILLE 779608.
Lt Moore in his DSC and Lt Horsfall in the SHQ DSC proceeded down the main road to the Y junc at 754635. SHQ moved to 735614. The time of start from LA PAUMERIE was 0535 hrs.
The advance initially was slow. Lt Moore, 1Tp and 5Tp were to be relieved by C Sqn as soon as they could get up. 5Tp was machine gunned by our fighters at 0720 hrs.
1Tp reported a road block consisting of a derelict Mark IV just outside ANCTOVILLE. Cpl Sambrooke was blown up by a booby-trap whilst inspecting it but was unhurt.
A little later 5Tp reported a road block outside ST GERMAIN D’ECTOT consisting of farm implements and some Germans which they proceeded to deal with.
Lt Moore reported MG fire to his front and odd shells.
Meanwhile 2Tp reported the tracks to the main road impassable so was ordered to go along with 8th Hussars and work down to the main road SE of 3Tp.
C Sqn took over our left hand patrols by 0845 hrs. 1Tp ordered to follow on with 2Tp and 8th Hussars.
3Tp reported an AC in CAMAGNES by the church. Lt Newton had walked across the fields to try and see the road where he heard considerable movement when he found this car 20 yards away. He withdrew his Tp to cover this car should it move into view and knocked out an Armd half-track personnel carrier coming in behind him. LCpl Bullen killed 3 Germans at 20 yards with a Sten gun.
At 1000 hrs it was reported that 4th CLY were in VILLERS BOCAGE and 1Tp, 2Tp and 5Tp were ordered to get back on the main axis and get there as quickly as possible. 8th Hussars were held up by an A/Tk gun on their axis. On arrival at the VILLERS BOCAGE area 1Tp was sent LA POSTE but only reached TRACY BOCAGE, coming under fire from an 88mm in the LA POSTE area.
2Tp were sent to the Y junc just West of VILLERS BOCAGE and turned NW to try and get up to LE HAUT DE ST LOUET. Meanwhile 3Tp had withdrawn to his NE to cover the next track to his rear when another half-track towing a 75mm A/Tk gun appeared. This was knocked out by Sgt Addis. C Sqn relieved 3Tp at 1210 hrs and they returned to SHQ at approx 1500 hrs.
2Tp was held up just SE of ST LOUET by 75mm from an 8 wheeled AC and MG fire.
1Tp reported a Mark VI advance from the SE to TRACY BOCAGE and that 8th Hussars were withdrawing NW. 1Tp pulled back to Pt 174 to observe. Considerable MG fire from South of the road as far back as AMAYE-SUR-SEULLES. B vehicles returned to C Sqn under SSM McHardy at about 1700 hrs.
Enemy attacked SE and South with Infantry infiltrating supported by tanks. By nightfall we were in a Box with the road cut between BRICQUESARD and AMAYE SUR SEULLES. 4th CLY and Rifle Brigade PULLED OUT OF VILLERS BOCAGE. Snipers about in the evening. 2Tp pulled back to the Y road West of VILLERS BOCAGE. 4Tp went to AMAYE to observe the East. 1Tp came in.
Considerable casualties inflicted on the enemy during the attack. 2Tp and 4Tp came in at last light. During the night the mediums shelled VILLERS BOCAGE consistently.

C Sqn.
4Tp advanced at first light and took up his former position. 1Tp did the southern patrol and both Tps advanced once more to the outskirts of the villages ECTOT and ANCTOVILLE respectively. These villages were both held – 4Tp being fired on by MG and saw some men run into a house – 1Tp saw two AFVs and a few men. Civilian reports suggested ANCTOVILLE had been heavily reinforced and a scout section tried to get into the village. They got well into the outskirts and nearly to the centre when they came under short range MG fire. LCpl Walker, the commander, was missing after that – no one quite knowing what had happened to him – the remainder got back. 2Tp relieved 4Tp in the northern patrol. 1Tp was withdrawn 1 mile to allow the gunners to engage targets in ANCTOVILLE.
In the evening the scout section with 2Tp under Cpl Howard searched some houses in the area and captured a German officer, a Lt of 304th Panzer Grenadiers who was hiding in one of them. At 2200 hrs these patrols were withdrawn and the Sqn went into reserve in area GEURON where they were later joined by RHQ and D Sqn.
The 3 day’s patrolling and fighting had been most interesting and different from anything we had undertaken previously. Though the country in Italy had been very close and the roads narrower – there had not been so much leaf on the trees and the visibility was not nearly so restricted. An Armd Car Tp by itself was almost powerless to obtain information of our enemy, numbers or even presence without coming under fire from very close range and there were numbers of near misses recorded. We were extraordinarily lucky in having only one car knocked out. The scout Tp which had been formed at TRIPOLI really came into their own in the role of dismounted recce.

B Sqn.
A lovely sunny day and then cold and wet. Soon after tea we saw the coast of France; some were sorry to see the last of England, but we should be used to it by now.
As we drew nearer the shore we could see nothing but ships – it was just like Henley Regatta – with fighters, mainly Thunderbolts going to and fro overhead. There was no shooting – we could not even hear the guns. It was too late to start off-loading so everyone went to bed.

D Sqn.
At first light 5Tp went to Pt. 174 and worked East to the Y road and 3Tp went up AMAYE to observe the western end of the Box. By 0830 hrs the road was opened by 1st RTR and 1/6th queens. 3Tp remained and 4Tp was sent to ST GERMAIN and thence NE to the Xroads outside ST LOUET at 794590.
During the day little occurred, intermittent shelling by the enemy of the road and gun positions. A small amount of enemy infiltration was reported by 5Tp and stopped by MGs. SHQ and RHQ were sniped at in the morning but the sniper was hounded out by 1Tp and Capt Churton MC, but not captured. It was decided at noon that 7th Armd Div would withdraw at dark to BRICQUESARD area thus drawing in the vulnerable point.
At 2000 hrs a heavy Infantry attack was put in, supported by tanks, on our southern flank. 1Tp were sent to K Battery 3rd RHA as local protection, 2Tp to 5th RHA and 3Tp brought in to help 2Tp. SHQ and RHQ formed up facing South in the leaguer area just North of the road and prepared to do battle. Terrific noise as all guns fired at nearly point blank range. The enemy had had enough by 2215 hrs and must have suffered heavy casualties – reports sat 10 tanks brewed-up at least.
We moved at 2330 hrs to proceed to GUERON just South of BAYEUX in Corps reserve. On the way Lt Newton’s DAC ran over a Military Policeman and M/C wrecking the steering of the car which had to be left. We arrived at 0245 hrs in our leaguer area where the B1 Echelon already were.

Notes.

1. Troops found that owing to trees and close country enemy was rarely seen except at close range.

2. A considerable amount of SAA was necessary to advance.

3. The days are a minimum of 19 hours and organised reliefs of operators are essential.

4. The 2nd Panzer Div of which we had no information was engaged and smartened up. Heavy casualties must have been inflicted and considerable information of their organisation was acquired.

5. That road jamming was likely to be a menace and the possibilities of side roads are enormous and should be exploited.

6. Lack of mines.

7. Presence of snipers and the necessity of immediate action by scout sections.

8. That Staghounds are far too broad but excellent for removing gateposts!

B Sqn.
The RE stevedores did not appear on board until 1100 hrs – they had been working till midnight on the last 5 nights. A battle of words immediately started between the RE’s and the First Officer who accused them of being both late and useless; the bickering continued which slowed up the work; the First Officer was a scoundrel.
The Scout Tp and 75mm Tp were the first off and went ashore in an LCT. When it was obvious that what with the feeling on board and the casual attitude of the American crews on the landing crafts, we managed to procure a Rhino, or large barge, which could take about 50 vehicles. Loading was difficult in the rough sea and only three Troops of ACs were loaded by dark, when we knocked off. The rations on the ship were running low.

B Sqn.
Loading stated again at 0400 hrs. The Sqn Ldr and some Dingos went ashore in an LCT at about midday and joined Lt Young and the Scout Tp at the Corps concentration area at RYES. The remainder of the Sqn vehicles were loaded by 1530 hrs and only Capt Horsford, Lt Sivewright and Lt Campbell and a few men were left on the large ship. There was a big sea running and Tpr Worthington had a narrow escape from death dangling at the end of a rope ladder with the barge surging up and down beside the ship. Suddenly the barge began drifting away – the First Officer had cast her off and she was adrift without even an outboard; one can scarcely believe a man could do such a thing, and Capt Horsford’s temper must have been taxed to a degree. The barge had an interesting trip, bumping an LST amidships and doing a ‘ 40 yarder’ across the bows of a Liberty Ship which was going full speed ahead but was fortunately on a sand bar and making no progress. However a plucky pilot boat eventually came to the rescue and towed the barge to the shore, where we drove off and joined the remainder at the assembly area.
The Sqn was complete in France except for a rear party of 12 men under Sgt Cobley still in England and coming with A Sqn, and the 3-ton lorries which had landed the previous day from another ship.

B Sqn.
Sqn moved up to join C & D Sqns and RHQ at GEURON and spent the time de-waterproofing and listening to the many stories that they had to tell us.

B Sqn.
Sqn placed under 22 Armd Bde to take over a section of the line held by the Rifle Brigade near TORTEVAL 7563. Only the Scout Tp would be used and the Sqn Ldr with Lt Nicholson and Scout Section commanders recced the area but by the evening it was called off as it had been decided to put a Bde into that sector instead.

Still little improvement in the weather and we are beginning to wonder seriously if the chap who said gunfire brings on rain is not right. We heard that the Guards Div had arrived and hope that they do not write themselves off in their battle. Capt Horsford went out on a recce with the Sqn Ldr and was unlucky enough to have an air burst just above the Jeep. He got a small piece of shrapnel in the neck and although we tried to convince the doctors it was a Blighty one they would not hear of it and he was returned to duty. Unfortunately LCpl Dunsdon received a nasty wound in the head and was evacuated.

B Sqn.
At 0630 hrs we moved to concentration area SE of BAYEUX and came under command of 22nd Armd Bde. Capt Horsford was transferred to D Sqn, much to the Sqns regret. He had been a brilliant Tp Ldr and as 2i/c his name was a byword in getting the maximum “buckasees”. Capt Lovett from D Sqn took his place.
It was believed that most of the enemy armour had been drawn West of the ORNE and with luck 8 Corps might have a breakthrough in the East. A terrific bombing programme had been laid on and for the first time tanks were going to advance under a timed barrage. The Guards Armd Div were directed on VIMONT, the 11th Armd Div on BRETTVILLE SUR LAIZE and 7th Armd Div were to then to breakthrough and take FALAISE; all very grand but a bit too optimistic.

A Sqn.
At 0800 hrs the Sqn moved out behind 4th CLY. The intention was to cross the river ORNE and move down behind CLY through OUVERVILLE to DEMOUVILLE and TOUR and then move on to the left of B Sqn who were covering the advance of 22nd Armd Bde. This plan did not materialise owing to the slowness of the advance and by 1800 hrs the Sqn had only just crossed the ORNE and so we moved down and spent the night at 105715.
At 2300 hrs the enemy began bombing the general area. One aircraft dropped three bombs in the middle of the Sqn leaguer area. These bombs inflicted 17 casualties on the Sqn.

Killed:-

B Sqn.
We started off at daybreak immediately behind Bde HQ up the centre line called the Calf Route. The only excitement West of the ORNE was when a shell landed 3 yards away from the Jeep, not touching LCpl Cowell but killing a DR to whom he was talking. SSM Beard’s AC caught fire but a brew up was averted.
At 0820 hrs SHQ crossed the ORNE by “London Bridge” and moved up to Bde HQ. There was much confusion and crossing of centre lines as there were 3 Armd Divs trying to fan out on a 3 mile front. The bombing had been impressive to watch from behind but the results when we got up were devastating. We found two Germans still in bed in a dug-out apparently untouched but stone dead and presumably killed by blast.
At 1200 hrs things were going well and the enemy must have been shattered by the initial bombing and barrage closely followed by tanks. When we got to ECOVILLE, 1Tp went out as right flank protection as there were Infantry in the woods. Sgt Richmond’s car was unfortunately blown up on a British mine. LCpl Medcalf was the driver and the crew were unhurt. Here Lt Campbell found some Canadians so went along with them and eventually found their HQ in BAUCHELLES, the SE part of CAEN. This link between 8 Corps and the Canadian Corps was very useful.
In the afternoon Lt Burridge went by himself in his Dingo to try and find the Guards Armd Div. He fluctuated for the rest of the day between their various HQs and provided some useful information.
At 1600 hrs Bde HQ and B Sqn moved forward to just East of COVERVILLE and it was here that an unlucky shell hit LCpl Stokes in the chest and he had to be evacuated. Lt Burridge came in before dark we leaguered in front of Bde HQ as a sort of screen between COVERVILLE and GIBERVILLE. During the night there was much bombing by the Germans round our bridges and A Sqn took a heavy toll.

A Sqn.
The Sqn moved 500 yards away from last nights area and dispersed. Sgt Hall took over 1Tp in place of Sgt Green and Lt Horsfall came from D Sqn to take over 6Tp in place of Lt Donald. This Tp was reduced to two sections. Owing to last night bombing the Sqn found itself very short of personnel.

B Sqn.
Lt Campbell remained all day with the 2nd Canadian Div. At 1630 hrs Lt Chapman was specially asked to go as a link with Brigadier Harvey who was going to attack BRAS while 7th Armd attacked BOURGEBUS with 5th Tanks. He stayed the night down there and the attack was successful.
In the evening Lt Campbell was withdrawn 5Tp Lt Sivewright sent out to the Canadians. Both Tps net at MONDEVILLE where 5Tp spent the night.
The remainder of the Sqn moved forward over the railway South of DEMOUVILLE. There was a certain amount of shelling during the day and Sgt Bull who had spent all the morning inside his AC was badly wounded by a stray shell immediately after getting out. Tpr Roberts ’79 was slightly wounded by the same shell.
The advance had slowed up and a ridge held by the enemy overlooked our line of advance. Brigadier Hind was unable to use us in front where there were a lot of Panthers about – the 5th Tanks got 5 Panthers in BOURGEBUS alone – but I think we were of considerable use to him in providing links with the neighbouring formations.
In the evening Lt Young who had his guns and the B1 ½ a mile back was attacked by Me 109’s and rocket firing planes. Luckily they were all bad shots and missed all the cars. The B2 was up at the time replenishing and Tpr Mokes was hit in the side by a bullet, not seriously. We spent the night where we were as a screen to Bde HQ.

B Sqn.
Lt Nicholson was still with the Inns of Court. Lt Sivewright moved with the Canadian Bde to I.F.S. South of CAEN where he got shelled and mortared and Lt Chapman moved to BRAS where the Monmouthshire Regt were dug in. The latter were later relieved by the Canadians who gradually took over the whole front from 8th Corps. There was much reporting from all three officers and everyone had much practice in the use of Slidex which is an awful business for Tp Ldrs, except when static.
At 1500 hrs it began to pour with rain and in a few minutes the field were a morass. The advance was called off and everyone was pulled back. Lt Burridge took the Sqn, less SHQ, 3Tp and 5Tp back to join RHQ between COVERVILLE and VAUCELLES at 1800 hrs. The Sqn reverted to command of the Regt and at 2000 hrs SHQ, 3Tp and 5Tp pulled back.
SHQ only just made the 4 mile trip and the Staghounds were almost impossible to keep on the roads. They would be quite impossible in the winter. Brigadier Hinds thanked the Sqn Ldr for the valuable information that the Tp Ldrs had reported whilst with their various formations.

A Sqn.
Came under command 22nd Armd Bde.
At 1900 hrs the Sqn less SHQ moved to area 090562 where they stayed the night.
At 2100 hrs SHQ moved with Tac HQ to 045650.
A very lively night was spent owing to enemy bombing and shelling.

B Sqn.
By now the country had dried up and although the 11th and the guards Armd Div had been taken out of it, the plan now was to push behind the Canadians down the CAEN – FALAISE road and then 7th Armd on the right and Guards Armd on the left were to debauch through the gap. We started out down the centre line following 22nd Armd Bde until there was a general halt. Actually we had not been told to halt and very nearly bummed on down the road into the enemy. Luckily the Sqn Ldr saw Major Turnbull who was out in front of 22nd Armd Bde so we pulled into a field for the rest of the day.
Resistance was much tougher than was expected and the Canadians we unable to make a gap. As there was quite a lot of shelling in our area and we were doing nothing other than providing targets for their guns and bombers at night, the Sqn was pulled out to the old area near CUVERVILLE for the night.

A Sqn.
Moved to area CHATEAU ST ANDRE with Sqn complete. On arrival special attention was paid to camouflage to prevent enemy observing our new position. This was universal throughout 7th Armd Div.

B Sqn.
The American push on the right was going well and we had succeeded in drawing to the East of the ORNE all the German armour. The new idea was to take advantage of our internal communications and air superiority and swing all the armour, except the Canadian, over to the West to come in on the American left, in the CAUMONT area. The 11th Hussars and 7th Armd Div reverted to 30 Corps. We moved back to our old position at the Chateau South of BAYEUX. Particular attention was paid to camouflage.

B Sqn.
Apart from Sgt Maguire having a new car the vehicle situation was 100% but there was a lot of preparation for the forthcoming push on the American’s left or on the inside of their big right-hook.

C Sqn.
Since 15th June the Sqn undertook no proper patrols until 5th August. Twice we moved up waiting for the breakthrough, there was a certain amount of bombing and shelling but we had no casualties.
Capt Wingfield Digby MC took over 2i/c, Lt Barkworth was evacuated to UK and Sgt Berry took over 4Tp. Lt Woodhouse was transferred to A Sqn and Sgt Mitchell took over 1Tp. We were reserve until 5th August.

A Sqn.
At 0700 hours moved up to CAUMONT area in reserve. Trying day following in the rear of 22nd Armd Bde. Eventually arrived at 0200 hours having completed 9 miles. Wake up next morning to discover we were in a partially cleared minefield, but no damage was sustained.

B Sqn.
The Sqn was in the centre with D Sqn on the left and C Sqn on the right. The Infantry had got on fairly well and at 0800 hours I attended OC 131 Bde conference.
The centre line for 7th Armd Bde was CAUMONT – CAHAGNES and we tried to get round quicker by going South of it with the 1/6th Queens. It was a lovely day and though resistance was as tough as ever, we hoped that we might at least be able to widen the bridgehead.
1Tp and 2Tp went on ahead with the 1/6th queens who were fighting through very dense country. At about 1600 hours the Sqn was ordered to get a patrol into JURQUES before dark. 1Tp tried and got very near but the place was held and there were enemy tanks on our side. Tpr Webster in the Scout Tp was wounded in the head by a mortar shell.
At about 1800 hours 22nd Armd Bde was directed straight along the road to AUNAY SUR ODON and B Sqn was ordered to protect their right flank by tapping South towards the PINCON feature. As 1st RTR progressed along the road, 2Tp, 3Tp and 5Tp all went out and leaguered with 1st RTR preparatory to going on in the morning. SHQ and 4Tp spent the night just East of CAHAGNES and got bombed; Tpr Leach had a bomb within 4 yards of his head, but was untouched.

D Sqn.
The Sqn had orders to recce the roads running East towards the main road running from VILLERS BOCAGE to AUNAY SUR ODON. CAHAGNES had been captured and 3Tp was ordered to go East from there along the TRACY BOCAGE road. 2Tp was ordered to work towards ROBIN so that when it was clear he could turn off East along the main road.
They moved at 0600 hours in a thick mist which did not clear until 1400 hours. 3Tp worked slowly but there were Infantry and MGs in the area. During the day they reached the 76 grid line where there was a strong point in a house which was unsuccessfully attacked by some 43 Div people.
2Tp were mortared at X roads 740551 and Tpr Belbin, Tpr Kingsmill and Tpr Rivers (White Sect), were wounded. Sgt Lyons’s DAC had 3 tyres punctured and 5Tp were sent to take over, 2Tp returning to SHQ.
During the afternoon 5Tp worked along East and found 4 dummy tanks (2 Mark V and 2 Mark VI) at the bridge 755549 but were held up by MG fire and Infantry 500 yards beyond.
During the night there was considerable bombing, chiefly AP’s, which fell in hundreds out of canisters, and resembled hand grenades. 3Tp were in the middle of the shower, two hits being scored on each car without effect. Three however fell in the ditch where some of the Tp were sleeping, wounding Lt Newton MC in both legs, 2Lt Llewellin Palmer in the neck, Tprs Harrison and Sinden slightly. Lt Palmer was very serious and was evacuated through 131 Bde.

A Sqn.
Remained in same area until 5th, carried out maintenance.

B Sqn.
1st RTR made no progress along the AUNAY road and that responsibility was taken over by D Sqn. By this time JORQUES was in our hands and 2Tp was sent out to help the 5th Dorsets who were going along the JORQUES – ONDEFONTAINE road. Little progress was made against tough opposition and the road was very overlooked and was shelled and mortared all day; 2Tp had some close escapes. It was an impossible job and a waste of time for ACs, but someone had said that there was a plateau in top of the PINCON feature, so of course ACs must be to the fore.
1Tp Lt Campbell had a very sticky time operating with the Sherwood Rangers who were supporting another Bde of 43 Div going South from JORQUES. The road up the hill was dead straight and a Tiger tank was shooting straight down it at anyone who dared show himself. However, 1Tp who were heavily mortared all day, as well as shelled, did some good reporting on the situation.
SHQ was on a bit of high ground at the ROBIN X roads from which Lt Chapman had a good shot with the 75mm Tp at an enemy tank sitting on the road which hurriedly moved off. 2Tp remained out all night with their Infantry friends and 3Tp relieved 1Tp. The Sqn leaguered quite close under the hill but it was impossible to get away from the guns, and a few shells landed in the area, probably intended for our guns which were making a frightful noise. Lt Sivewright took out a White Scout car to replenish 2Tp.

D Sqn.
We had orders to recce the roads running NE from X roads 780526 and to X roads 812548 and from X roads 795519 through COURCELLES to main road 818533. 4Tp ordered to go to the former and 1Tp to the latter, both leaving at 0515 hours.
At 0600 hours Sgt Keen reported he had Sgt Cooper and that 1Tp had run into a Panther at the X roads. It transpired that in the half-light Lt Copeland had seen a tank and walked up to it to get the situation. Getting to within 50 yards from it he saw it was a Panther and shouted for the Tp to pull out. His own car was KO’d through the visor and Sgt Cooper’s was put in the ditch by Cpl Trendale’s WSC which turned around and knocked a telegraph pole onto it. Lt Copeland was last seen OK and Tpr Sanderson was known to be wounded. Of Tpr Humphries and LCpl Kennedy there was no information. Lt Copeland was picked up by the Queens at about 1030 hours, he had been wounded by a sniper in the stomach, his condition was very serious. Sgt Keen 4Tp remained in the area of ROBIN where there was heavy shelling all day.
2Tp took over from 3Tp and found considerable Infantry, mortar and MG opposition. The White Sect Cpl Bruerton captured an 88mm A/Tk gun and crew of 3 Poles, 1 Czech and 1 German at bridge 747565, also a dummy minefield. A Sqn of 5th DG were operating in the area. 50th Div also came down from the North to ST GERMAIN area and 2Tp returned to SHQ.
5Tp got on slowly with a lot of snipers and MG opposition. Several houses were cleared and heavy shelling reported in area 760549 where houses just East were held. Cpl Williams was wounded by a grenade whilst recceing the position. By evening they had reached the Y roads 775549 which was held by A/Tk and Infantry.
4Tp stayed with SHQ in the area of ROBIN for the night, 5Tp remained with 5th DG for the night.

B Sqn.
5Tp went out to 2Tp on the JORQUES – ONDEFONTAINE road. Lt Burridge and Lt Sivewright soon discovered that the best way to work with the Infantry before a gap is made is to leave one’s Tp a mile or ½ mile behind out of the immediate shelling area if possible, and to go forward to liase etc. in one’s Dingo which is also much more suitable for negotiating traffic in.
These two Tps remained out all day under regular mortaring and shelling with the Infantry who were able to make no progress at all. In the evening Lt Burridge tried to find a way round to the left with 4th Dorsets but was unable to make any progress.
3Tp had an uncomfortable day and were shifted around a bit by shelling; Lt Chapman in his Dingo went right forward to the leading Coy of the DCLI who were trying to scale the hill.
2Tp and 5Tp spent the night together, and 3Tp with the Infantry. The rest of the Sqn slept in a sunken lane which was almost shell and bomb proof.
Poor Tpr Humphrey in the Scout Tp was killed by a mortar that day, one could not want a better man.

D Sqn.
4Tp left at first light and took over from 5Tp. The Y roads held all day in spite of the efforts of 5th DG and some Rifle Brigade’s. Heavy stonking in 4Tp area, Y roads and X roads 766548 during the day.
2Tp came into SHQ as 50th Div arrived in his area. Lt Horsfall returned from A Sqn and Lt Campbell joined us from B Sqn. The petrol tank of the fitters lorry was punctured during the night by shelling around the SHQ area.

a)the road East to ONDERFONTAINE,
b)CATHEOLLES – MONTCHARIVEL troad
c)LE MESNIL AUZOUT – LA TROTAINIERE road.

B Sqn.
4Tp relieved 2Tp. 5Tp and 4Tp were still stuck up the same cul-de-sac all the morning and were unable to make any progress. 3Tp were able to move forward half-way up the hill on to the PINCON feature.
Suddenly at about midday it appeared that the enemy had gone. The 43rd Recce Regt appeared but 3Tp were the first up the hill onto the PINCON feature. Once up the hill B Sqn had three roads to cover – 4Tp on the road going East to ONDEFONTAINE, 3Tp in the centre on the road MESNIL AUZOUF – LA TAUTAINIERE and 5Tp the road CATHEOLLES – MONTCHARIVAL on the right. This covered the whole of the 43rd Div front and consequently their Recce Regt was to be found along all our routes.
4Tp got nearly to ONDEFONTAINE and had to pull back for the night; 3Tp got to LA TAUTAINIERE where they were shot at by a cleverly concealed AC; Lt Chapman and Sgt MacGuire dismounted and tried to stalk the enemy AC with hand grenades but were seen and shot at by enemy Infantry protecting the AC, when they were within 50 yards of it. This was very bad luck, and they also spent the night with 43rd Recce.
5Tp were soon found they were overlapping with the neighbouring Corps on their road and having had great difficulty in getting through the traffic spent the night in the area of the 15th Scottish Div.
SHQ relied on a false sense of security and were quite heavily shelled, but spent a quiet night with the rest of the Sqn in an orchard at LE MESNIL AUZOUF. Lt Campbell, owing to D Sqn casualties in Tp Ldrs, was transferred to that Sqn, much to B Sqn’s sorrow.

D Sqn.
The Y junction was cleared and 4Tp pushed on towards VILLERS BOCAGE. X roads 792560 heavily mined, after night opposition cleared. 5Tp took over from 4Tp and had orders to turn East at LA POSTE with 5th DG.
MAISONCELLES – PELVEY heavily mined with AP mines and main road from LA POSTE to MAISONCELLES-PELVEY.
3Tp Lt Campbell went out in the afternoon to go straight on from LA POSTE to VILLERS BOCAGE. Mines found at 805570 and at last light 3Tp had reached the outskirts of VILLERS BOCAGE.
A Flail tank was sent out to 5Tp to clear the road for 22nd Armd Bde centre line (Westminster Dragoons). Rained during the night.

C Sqn.
4Tp left early to liase with and protect the 64th Medium Regt RA at 755535.
At 0930 hours 3Tp Lt Ballingal MC was ordered to contact some RE’s at ROBIN and to open up the road into AUNAY SUR ODON.
1130 hours – 3Tp had reached 802513 where there were many mines to be cleared.
1200 hours – 3Tp took a PoW from 326 Infantry Div.
1420 hours – 3Tp had reached the bridge at 824512 – it was OK; at the entrance to the town, which was completely flattened by bombing, was hopelessly blocked by rubble of fallen down houses. A diversion to the North was finally found and by 1700 hours 3Tp was in the town centre. A German SP gun destroyed itself just in front of him and the crew surrendered. They gave their unit as 10th Pz Regt (Freundsburg). Further work was required to get out of the town to the South.
1850 hours – 3Tp was out of the town to the South and could see one man, believed German by his helmet, at 837501. As the approach was completely open down the rd he despatched a scout section down the side of the road which got nearly in the village of LA GENDRERIE along a ditch. There they saw some legs walking about, but could not seen the complete body, but decided they were German – they withdrew and the position was shelled by 7Tp. 4Tp had meantime finished his job with the guns and joined 3Tp. They both withdrew about 1 mile for the night.

A Sqn.
Moved to area BREUIL where we spent the night.

B Sqn.
3Tp pushed along their road in the centre in front of the 43rd Div Recce, and when the 13th Hussars Sqn just behind said they thought a thickly wooded bit of the road was too dangerous for them, Lt Chapman volunteered to push on forward. Only 2 miles East of LA TAUTINIERE they came up against a strongly held river line. The Wiltshires later came up and 3Tp spent the rest of the day with them reporting very accurately on the situation. On several occasions when the Wiltshires Btn HQ was being sniped. Lt Chapman insisted on going out in his Dingo to draw the fire and locate the sniper.
On the left 4Tp passed through ONDEFONTAINE and reported the village of GUAYE as held. They did a lot of shooting which included the rescue of an Air OP which had forced landed. Unfortunately just as they were about to clean up this village and take about 50 PoW our own guns began shelling the place so the Tp was withdrawn a bit. They continued to report on the enemy for the rest of the day.
On the right 5Tp made several gallant attempts to encircle from the South ST JEAN LE BLANC (whose codename was obviously “The White Bint”!) but the enemy was not budging and any movement was instantly shelled. Lt Sivewright did some excellent reporting throughout the day.
1Tp now commanded by Lt Young relieved 3Tp in the evening, and 2Tp went out to relieve 5Tp, they spent the night together.
SHQ moved to 3 miles behind 3Tp for the day and went back to LE MESNIL AUZOUF for the night. Great difficulty was experienced with the wireless in this thickly wooded and undulating country.

D Sqn.
Orders to advance to recce the bridge over the R ODON, between AUNAY SUR ODON and a line SE of VILLERS BOCAGE. 2Tp went with detailed orders to LA POSTE at 0530 hours where 3Tp and 5Tp were for the night. 3Tp found VILLERS BOCAGE badly blocked by masonry and had to go cross country to the South.
5Tp worked on slowly, held up by mines at all X roads. 2Tp followed up 5Tp as far as the X roads 812547 when 2Tp went ahead to the bridge at 837543. Here Sgt Fulcher’s car hit 2 teller mines, Tpr Chalmers was slightly wounded in the head and Sgt Fulcher cracked 2 ribs on the gun. The car was badly smashed at the front.
5Tp went right to the bridge North of AUNAY, which was OK. Lt Sexty’s car went up on a teller mine. Sgt Luke pushed on to AUNAY which was badly blocked having been ‘liberated’, where he met a patrol of C Sqn coming down the main road. Sgt Lyon was slightly wounded by an ‘S’ mine which went off 10 feet away from him.
4Tp joined 2Tp to try and get through to the bridge at THURY HARCOURT on the river ORNE. 3Tp meanwhile managed to get over the ODON at 840570 and proceeded SE to 880500. 4Tp joined 3Tp also a Sqn of 5th DG and they pushed on about 2000 yards meeting SA fire. 3Tp were smartened up by 5th DG (or thought to be). 5Tp got through AUNAY and proceeded East to 865495. 3Tp came in.

C Sqn.
Sqn role was to recce the three roads running SW, South and SE from AUNAY SUR ODON. 2Tp, 4Tp and 3Tp were allocated the 3 roads, each with a scout car.
On the way through the town 3Tp took 3 PoW of 968 Regt – there was thick ground mist which limited visibility to 100 yards. The shelling by 7Tp on the previous day had been well on target. 3Tp in following up his scout section ran over a mine damaging the car, but the crew was OK.
4Tp had meanwhile had made good progress through the thick woods at 7948 and by 0825 hours had reached the road junction 828482. He was ordered to halt there and await improvement of visibility as it was known the MT PINCON feature was held.
At 0850 hours a German cyclist rode into the patrol from the West. He was from 5th Btn 786 Regt and did not know we were near the road junction.
2Tp had meanwhile advanced to road junc at 897487 where they met a patrol of B Sqn. 2Tp was then withdrawn and relieved 3Tp who had been busy picking up mines- Teller Mk IV, several of them booby-trapped.
A Coy of Hants Regt came into 4Tp area which was heavily shelled. The Tp evacuated. There were 5 casualties on the ACs which the stretcher bearers could not reach on account of MG fire. Little advance was made during the rest of the day.
2Tp advanced SW as far as 852482 but was then ordered back. There was a certain amount of shelling in this area without result. Both Tps returned to Sqn after dark.

A Sqn.
Moved to CANTELOUP. The Sqn Ldr Major J Turnbull received orders to have the Sqn ready to move out, to recce the bridges over the ORNE.
Before the order to move was given, a few overthrows from the enemy guns fell in the area. The Sqn Ldr was wounded in the leg, L/Cpl Cox and L/Cpl Crosby, Tpr Paske and Tpr Cutbush were also injured. This meant that 5Tp Lt Osborne was not operational. Capt H Petch MC DCM, took command of the Sqn, Lt Williamson took over 2i/c and Lt Woodhouse who had joined us from C Sqn took over 3Tp.

B Sqn.
3Tp after a brilliant patrol were impossible to call in the morning! The only incident was that on the day before an unlucky mortar shell had landed in the sunken lane where 3Tp were with the Btn HQ of the Wiltshires – Tpr Pearson was killed and Tprs Symons and Philps were wounded.
At 1100 hours the Sqn was told to concentrate at ONDEFONTAINE and the patrols were withdrawn. Lt Nicholson had spent the last 2 ½ days with HQ 43rd Div Recce Regt who were charming and grateful for our help, but he had heard an unfortunate remark by their Div Commander, which ran, “If the 11th Hussars insist on swanning around our area they must expect to be shot up!” Are we fighting the Germans or ourselves? B Sqn I think had acquitted themselves well though they were very lucky not to have had any more casualties.

D Sqn.
1Tp Lt Horsfall and 3Tp refuelled and went out, 4Tp and 5Tp came in. 1Tp to 888493, 5Tp Tp 897498. Lt Moore to 59th Div Recce to liase.
Considerable shelling and mortaring during the day and at last light. The area South of the river running West from THURY HARCOURT held strongly. Excellent shoot with 25pdrs and mediums by 1Tp & 3Tp in conjunction, on enemy Infantry and suspected dug-in Panther.

C Sqn.
1Tp & 5Tp left before first light to patrol the roads running SW & SE from road junc 828482. 5Tp’s job consisted of following up Infantry and tanks until road junc at 836474 and 1Tp was to open up the road running down to the West of Mt PINCON. The western side of PINCON had been reported as being taken during the night, but a lot of enemy were known to be still in the area.
By 0855 hours 1Tp had reached 821470 and they took 2 PoWs from 986 Regt and they said their whole Btn was in the area. 1Tp pushed on to the crossing of the river at 820467. Here they met many mines in the road which had to be removed. They were Teller mines some of which were booby trapped. One of these was exploded by attaching signal cable and pulling. The explosion immediately drew heavy shellfire which postponed lifting operations.
By 1400 hours 1Tp had met some tanks of 8th Armd Bde (13/18th Hussars) at X roads 821443. They were then ordered to go West along the South side of the PINCON feature. After making 1000 yards they came into close contact with the enemy. They engaged those observed and withdrew amongst A/Tk and MG fire which however did no harm. 1Tp remained in observation X roads area – they also found and evacuated 2 wounded soldiers of the Hampshire Regt.
5Tp had made a slow advance to POSTY which was reached at 1630 hours. The main column turned left and 5Tp was ordered to move straight on to contact friends on the hill some 2000 yards ahead. They almost immediately took 2 PoWs of the 276th Pz A/Tk unit who stated that they had abandoned their SP gun. Another PoW (986 Gn) was taken soon after. The advance continued slowly in by now thickly wooded country.
At 1744 hours the leading car was fired on, hit and immediately set on fire. The driver Tpr Johnson and the G/Op Tpr Berger were killed and the commander Sgt Thomson severely burned but managed to get out. Lt Creaton ran forward to help; Sgt Thomson had been burned on the face and hands and his clothing was on fire but this was soon extinguished and they got back to Lt Creatons car in spite of MG fire. Sgt Thomson was evacuated in the White scout car while Lt Creaton got in touch with the OP and gave him the pinpoint ref of the A/Tk gun. An accurate concentration was brought down upon the area and soon after the Infantry were able to advance to find the gun had received a direct hit killing 3 of the crew, the fourth was captured.
3Tp had meanwhile gone to recce the road from 836974 to 810458. He got about halfway up and met 1st RTR who were doing the same thing from the other way.
All Tps returned at night.

A Sqn.
At 0900 hours 1Tp Sgt Hall, 2Tp Lt Sutton, 3Tp Lt Woodhouse and 4Tp Lt Hodgkinson were sent out to be in a handy position in the area of VALLEE. They were shelled and ordered to move back under cover to area 895503 where they remained all day.
At 2115 hours Tp Ldrs were called in to SHQ for orders and 2Tp complete because of the damage to their cars through shelling.

B Sqn.
7th to the 10th the Sqn remained at ONDEFONTAINE resting and reorganising. It is surprising how tired everyone gets these long days and it takes more than a day to catch up on the sleep one has missed.
It seems that this Corps Recce did not work really. Either we must work on our own front, in front of 7th Armd Div as usual, or if the Corps Commander must have continual accurate information on the whole front, we should merely act as LOs with Officers and Sergeants in Dingos on the Infantry Div fronts where they have their own Recce Regts. Much letter writing was done and more of the soldiers were able to recount the stories of their first patrols against the Germans.

D Sqn.
1Tp and 5Tp move out to 888493 and 897498. Lt Horsfall to liase with 1/6th South Staffs and 5Tp on left 177th Bde.
Very heavy mortaring in the morning, Lt Horsfall was wounded in the shoulder while with Btn HQ of 1/6th South Staffs. 4Tp relieved 1Tp.
Whole situation as follows:- roughly the river running West from the ORNE at 930480 to VALLEE dividing line enemy to the South, us to the North. From the 51 Grid running SE to R ORNE Enemy in the valley with mortars and with guns South of Pt. 152. All Tps called in at 1200 hours.

C Sqn.
A column of one Sqn of 8th Hussars, 5th RTR and 1/6th Queens was formed to advance South through PLESSIS GRIMOULT. Sqn role was to do right flank guard. 2Tp and 3Tp left early and went to the top of Mt PINCON near the head of the column. The leading Tps were held up in PLESSIS GRIMOULT and just to the South all day, so our role was never required. All Tps returned in the evening.

A Sqn.
At 0500 hours Tps moved out and on arrival in area of start point, 1Tp who were leading, was shelled and suffered 2 casualties. Cpl Sear of the Scout section was wounded in the back and Cpl Lewis was wounded slightly in the head. Cpl Sear was evacuated and Tpr Ogden was put in command of the Scouts.
All 3 Tps were ordered back to cover and later two Tps were called in, 4Tp remained out to act as LO between SHQ and 8th Hussars who were advance guard along the centre line.

D Sqn.
2Tp, 3Tp and 4Tp move out. 3Tp remain in area Pt 245 2 & 3 to valley area to get 2Tp West to THURY HARCOURT bridge and 4Tp to 876459 and then SE. Column of 7th Armd Div are pushing South to CONDE. Heavy fire and Infantry opposition met. No progress made and 4Tp returned to Pt. 245 at about 1100 hours. 2Tp were heavily mortared in the afternoon and joined 3Tp and 4Tp at Pt. 245 at about 1530 hours as no information or useful action was being attained. All Tps in at last light.

C Sqn.
Sqn came into reserve.

Summary. The Sqn only recced from LA LANDE to Mt PINCON a total distance of about 5 miles, but nearly all of this was in contact with the enemy and in very close country. During the 4 days we lost one car with 2 killed and 1 wounded and had a second car damaged by a mine but recovered. We took 12 PoWs and possibly inflicted other casualties with a 75mm and MGs. We also removed 40 – 50 Teller mines.

A Sqn.
2Tp was ordered out at 0500 hours to take up position at start point before first light and act as LO between 8th Hussars and SHQ. No advance had been made. The enemy in strong position at 898467.
At 0930 hours the Sqn was ordered to pull out until a more favourable opportunity presented itself for pushing on up to the bridge.
We returned independently to CANTALOUPE where we spent the night.
5Tp Lt Osborne had by this time been made up in crews and was again operational. Lt Woodhouse reported to the Sqn Ldr with an attack of Malaria (3rd attack in 6 weeks). He was evacuated to hospital and Lt Hunt took over 3Tp and Sgt Turner the Gun Tp.

D Sqn.
5Tp liasing with 177 Bde all day. Front unchanged, less mortaring than usual.

A Sqn.
At 1800 hours 3Tp, 4Tp and 5Tp were ordered out to the bridges again. 3Tp to the bridge at 914405, 5Tp to 920432 and 4Tp to the crossing at LE MESNIL ROGER.
3Tp reached 884423 and reported Infantry positions North, NE & NW of ST LAMBERT. He took up observation until ordered to return at last light.
5Tp reached 882441 where the road was found to be mined. The Scout section dismounted and started clearing the mines, picking up 10 Teller mines before last light.
4Tp following behind 5Tp were unable to get onto the route to the crossing.
SHQ had moved to 862448 with the Gun Tp and 1Tp and 2Tp. The B1 Echelon was moved to 860 467. At last light all Tps were called in and B1 replenished after dark.

D Sqn.
Moved to RHQ area 820495 at 1045 hours, 1Tp Lt Wild coming in from liaison with 177 Bde.
10th – 15th August. Reorganisation, cleaning up and maintenance. Sitrep as follows:-

1Tp	Lt Wild, Sgt Cooper, Cpl wheeler
2Tp	Sgt Lyon MM, Sgt Stewart, Cpl Rogers
3Tp	Lt Campbell, Sgt Addis, Cpl Grainger
4Tp	Sgt Keen, Sgt Peckitt, Cpl Gooch
5Tp	Sgt Luke MM, Cpl Walker, LCpl Chapman
Guns	Lt Sexty, Sgt Andrews, Sgt Skarratt

L/Sgt Cooper and L/Sgt Stewart to Sgt.
LCpl Gooch and LCpl Cairns to Cpl.
U/LCpl Chapman and U/LCpl Rose to P/LCpl.
Tprs Hempstead, Cartwright 08, Williams Wynn to U/LCpl(Tprs Rivers, Higman to U/LCpl before arrival RHQ area).

At this time also:-

Lt Newton MC	at Baguley Hospital, Altringham, Cheshire
Lt Hickman	at Baguley Hospital
Lt Horsfall	121 General Hospital, to UK 10 Aug 44
Lt Copeland	10 CCS 10 Aug 44 to Hospital 12 Aug 44 and progressing favourably
Lt Llewellin Palmer	died of wounds 3 Aug 44
Tpr Humphries	found KIA
Tpr Sanderson	found KIA
LCpl Kennedy	no trace whatever, Missing (car door was open, hoped he is PoW)

A Sqn.
The intention remained the same. Four troops were in use.
4Tp to the crossing. 5Tp to the bridge 920432. 3Tp to the bridge 915405. 2Tp lying up in area CAUVILLE.
To all intents and purposes the situation remained unchanged. No advance was made by us towards the bridges, and enemy guns and Infantry were in positions in strength all along the front.
3Tp used the 75mm gun Tp at Infantry position at 888418 but with little or no success. The road that 5Tp was using was eventually cleared of mine by the Scout section who had been assisted by the RE’s. Unfortunately one Daimler AC was blown up, none of the crew injured.
Enemy shelling was encountered the whole day on all sectors and a few prisoners were taken, some of them Yugoslavs.
Tps returned to SHQ at last light and replenishment was carried out.

B Sqn.
11th to 12th the Sqn moved to where the Regt was, in a lovely place just South of Mt PINCON near AUNAY SUR ODON which was generally agreed to be the most battered place or town we had ever seen; it was such a shambles that the RE’s were unable to find where the roads went and had to bulldoze a way through. All the Sqn benefited from well run shower baths, where they could also exchange their clothing.
Lt General Horrocks whom we knew well from before and who had just taken over 30th Corps from Lt General Bucknall, gave the Regt a very fine address in the course of the war; he said how much he preferred the “metering” kind of war, like the Tunisian finale, than the stubborn fighting against fatalistic SS Troops which we were now experiencing; he said that he was a good General when the enemy were on the run.

A Sqn.
1Tp, 2Tp and 3Tp went out at 0530 hours but were held up owing to fog.
1Tp advanced no further than 884423. They reported Infantry and mortars in ST LAMBERT and square 8841 was a prepared Infantry Btn position.
3Tp had a slight alteration in the orders given to them this was to move from their position at 1500 hours and proceed South down the centre line to X roads 875390 – then to advance East and endeavour to reach Pt. 110 915398. His intention to report whether the road running SE was useable and to report on the bridge at 938390. The Tp advanced as far as 890390 where it was shelled and forced to withdraw. Lt Hunt exhibited great spirit and dash to advance so far, and seemed undeterred by small pockets of Infantry which he encountered on the way.
2Tp advanced to 885439 where it was held up all day by mortar fire. The village of CULEY LE PATREY was strongly held by enemy Infantry and it was not until late at night that our Infantry ejected them.

A Sqn.
Returned to RHQ at PIED DU BOIS. Maintenance was carried out and troops were rested.
From the 7th until 12th the Tps who had been operating were exposed to continuous shell and mortar fire and all benefited from the short respite.

B Sqn.
At 1100 hours we were in the middle of a Sqn Ldrs conference discussing how to occupy the time to advantage during the few days rest when we suddenly placed at immediate notice. B Sqn moved at 1300 hours and was ordered to recce the crossings of the ORNE, South of THURY HARCOURT and at the same time act as left flank guard to the Corps who were advancing South to CONDE SUR NOIREAU.
5Tp on the left got as far East as CULEY LE PATREY and had a good view point from that area.
2Tp in the centre had a more adventuresome time. The Germans had left the area bristling with mines and Lt Burridge’s car was blown up on the CAUVILLE ST LAMBERT road; he and both the driver LCpl Mayes and the operator LCpl Gormally were untouched. Later in the dark whilst trying to find another way round in his Dingo, Lt Burridge was standing only a few yards in front, guiding the driver onto a road, it was suddenly blown up but again he was untouched but for a bruised nose from a pack falling on it, Tpr Evans the driver was merely badly shaken. Perhaps Lt Burridge is going on George III’s principle of “Give me lucky Generals, not good Generals”.
On the right centre 1Tp found a good position at LA VARENDE and spent the evening finding friends and avoiding mines.
On the right we had a special request from the Corps Commander to recce the bridge at ST REMY. 3Tp went off as quickly as possible and, after leaving his Tp on high ground, Lt Chapman almost reached the bridge in his Dingo by midnight; civilians in a house just our side of the bridge were woken up by him and said that the bridge was held by Germans and that they had blown it, which was the information the Corps Commander required. The wireless through the trees was very difficult and 3Tp was out of touch for most of the night.

C Sqn.
The Sqn was between the 38 and 41 Northing facing East. Two Tps were out, with 2Tp on the left overlooking the bridge at 915405 which had been blown, and 1Tp Sgt Mitchell at LA VARENDE, both had scout sections – the one with 1Tp being about 1 mile forward of the Tp which could get no further because of the going. The one with 2Tp patrolled the river bank to see if the bridge at 913410 was useable; but it was not. 2Tp took one PoW, a Russian from a Horsed Transport Unit.
At 1210 hours the scout section saw some men at 891391 on the far side of the river.
7Tp (Gun Tp) were in action at SHQ area 878893. First they ranged a road likely to be used, and then fired on men reported by 1Tp scout section. 170 rounds were fired during the day.
For the night both Tps prepared to hold the roads from the East. For this purpose, scout sections carried a roll of Danert wire and Hawkins A/Tk grenades.

B Sqn.
At daylight 3Tp went down to the bridge SW of REMY 914405 and confirmed that it was blown. A Tp from C Sqn relieved them at 0900 hours and 3Tp returned to rest with the B1 at CAPANDRE VALCONGRAIN.
1Tp on the right remained in the area of LA VARENDE, with the Scout section LCpl Hawkins, forward looking down into the river. They reported chiefly on our own shelling of the other side.
In the centre 4Tp was in position on MONT GAULTIER and Lt Nicholson with Cpl Hughes was forward about 2000 yards in a good but far away position. 4Tp had a shoot with 75mm onto various fleeting targets on the other side of the river, more for practice than anything else.
On the left 5Tp got right down to the river East of CULEY LE PATREY and gained contact with 59th Div in 12th Corps who were operating on our left. One RE Carrier was blown up just on the other side of the river, and later another carrier looking for a bathing pool also got blown up. In the evening 5Tp also had some good shooting at fleeting targets on the opposite hill.
It was lovely weather and a comparatively quiet day except for a short panic in the evening when Lt Nicholson in the half light reported 12 Germans coming towards him. They must have disappeared as we heard nothing more of them.
SHQ spent the day and leaguered for the night 700 yards behind 4Tp in the centre, in a very good position of observation. 1Tp were relieved about midday by C Sqn.

C Sqn.
Our area was increased to the SE as far as 38 grid and later to the 35 grid. 4Tp left at dawn and went to junc at 918400 – the road South of there was heavily mined with Teller of which the scout section picked up more than 40 – they also took 1 PoW of the Grenadiers, but could not find out what number.
1Tp was relieved by B Sqn and later 2Tp was withdrawn; but 3Tp went down South past 4Tp to junc 917357, then East towards the bridges at 9833 which were reported clear, but were in fact not, and 3Tp ran into mortar fire and shelling. They then recced the roads and bridges over the ORNE to the North. They encountered mines which they marked, bur all the bridges were U/S.
3Tp and 4Tp remained in the area for the night.

B Sqn.
3Tp took over the right hand patrol from C Sqn. 4Tp were still out in the centre and 5Tp were relieved in the afternoon by 1Tp.
It was a quiet day and very good training for the Scout section in the use of their own initiative. At 1800 hours the whole Sqn was withdrawn to B1 for the night.

C Sqn.
Both Tps cleared up their area of mines. The enemy had now withdrawn from the far bank of the river and at 1200 hours, Tps were withdrawn and Sqn went into reserve.
1600 – Regt moved to area of ST SYLVAIN where we arrived just before dark.

A Sqn.
Moved from PIED DU BOIS to ST AIGNON DU CREMASNIL crossing the ORNE at AMAYE SUR ORNE.

B Sqn.
We expected the day off but an early morning rumour that we were going over the ORNE under the Canadians turned out to be correct. 2Tp were now reformed with a new Daimler AC and a new Dingo.
At 1300 hours the whole Regt moved to cross the ORNE and come under 1st Corps who were part of the Canadian Army. We crossed at AMAYE SUR ORNE and after careering on much further than we expected, and ended up, after passing through untold Canadian Echelons and leaguers, at SECQUEVILLE LA CAMPAGNE which was one of the most unsightly places we have seen; the wood had been bombed by our heavies or American heavies, presumably on our own troops as there were many brewed up British vehicles.
The orders for the next day were most ambitious and the information about the enemy was almost nil, and there was little more information of whom the Polish Armd Div was working on our front, and, naturally enough their English “was not”, in most cases liaison was difficult; however Lt Nicholson somehow managed to get some useful information, and they also added that they were not going to write themselves off in some “blood and guts” show and their Div constituted the future breeding stock of Poland.
Tp Ldrs were not given their orders until midnight. The Regt was to advance on a three Sqn front in a northerly direction roughly between ST PIERRE SUR DIVES and on the right the river VIE; the country was supposed to be unoccupied, which in fact proved to be entirely incorrect. It was a ghastly night.

D Sqn.
Lt Cousins and Lt Pybus joined the Sqn, the former under instruction of Sgt Keen and the latter under instruction of Sgt Lyon. Cpl Wheeler and Cpl Walker placed spare on B2.
Moved at 1300 hours to area CLAMESNIL under 1st Canadian Army. Very dirty; arrived 2230 hours with orders to move at first light. The area had some 100 burnt out vehicles (British) caused by 50 Lancasters dropping their bombs in the wrong area.

C Sqn.
Dawn – Sqn moved across R DIVES at JORT, 2Tp & 5Tp went to LIEURY which was reported clear but was found to be held by MGs. 2Tp and 5Tp gradually made their way through to trees at 277459 where 2Tp turned South towards TOTES while 5Tp continued East.
By 1100 hours 5Tp was at 285460, 2Tp at 282450 and 1Tp at 287437. All were in visual contact with the enemy and 5Tp and 2Tp were both shooting at enemy Infantry in the fields but the country was very close and visibility limited.
1145 hours – 2Tp caused a fire with their MGs in the village of TOTES and were shortly after engaged by A/Tk gun which caused the Dingo to overturn in a ditch while turning round. A Canadian Staghound in the area also got into trouble with its own phosphorous grenades going off – severely burning 2 of its crew. Tpr Russell, the Dingo driver, burned his hands in trying to extinguish the clothing of one of them. Our White Scout car evacuated all the casualties. The Dingo was later recovered intact.
5Tp engaged the enemy in this area with 7Tp as well as his own MGs and got well amongst them. 1Tp came under heavy MG and sniping fire and also an A/Tk gun on the flank. 1Tp and 2Tp also used 7Tp on the enemy in their area.
At 1645 hours 5Tp considered the enemy on his front had withdrawn sufficiently so advanced a few hundred yards. A civilian reported that the enemy had just pulled out and had left a man wounded in the earlier firing in a nearby house. The Scout section went and got him. White Scout car evacuated the PoW and took another on the way back.
About 1900 hours 2 enemy guns, probably 75mm, fired about 40 – 50 rounds landing just behind SHQ and Gun Tp area. 1Tp and 2Tp got a cross section on these guns and 7Tp replied to them with an equal number of rounds.
All Tps recalled after dark.

A Sqn.
17th – 18th In Regtl reserve. Moved in the wake of the advance to COURCY.

B Sqn.
We started at 0630 hours on a long approach march to JORT where we crossed the R Dives just by the Polish Div HQ. We halted for breakfast just the other side and to give out orders. 2Tp were on the right and via BERVILLE reached MITTOIS where they came up against small arms and mortars. They then went North across the main road running East from ST PIERRE SUR DIVES to endeavour to get into BOISSEY from the North. They found the country infest with Infantry and had some near escapes, and were just unable, due to bad tracks, to get into BOISSEY before the 8th Hussars.
1Tp tried to get down the main road into BOISSEY but it was covered by an A/Tk gun which brewed up an 8th Hussars tank just in front of him.
3Tp got down the road SE from BERVILLE nearly into ECOTS which was held, and had some very successful sport with the 75’s onto some Germans on a farm hard by.
2Tp took 1 PoW during the day. The country was very close and most difficult. All patrols were called in and spent the night with SHQ in an avenue at CAREL, 1 mile SW of ST PIERRE SUR DIVES.

D Sqn.
Moved at 0600 hours to ST PIERRE SUR DIVES. It was believed the enemy were disorganised and it would be an easy matter to advance to LISIEUX on a three Sqn front.
2Tp moved out on the main road running NE and reached 309518 where he was held up by A/Tk guns, MGs and mortaring.
3Tp advanced up the main road NNE and reached 288550 where he was held up by shelling and mortaring and a tank at 300590 area. The HD took over the area.
5Tp went to 285531 then East to 300530 where there was MG fire and mortaring; later pushed on to 300544 where he captured 4 PoW.
4Tp went to 282524 and turning left went along the river towards MEZIDON – shelling in OUVILLE area and sundry snipers in the trees. Reached 272553. Area seemed fairly strong with enemy and the Tps were called in at 1400 hours.

a) lifting mines,
b) foot recces,
c) aiding Tps,
d) evacuation of wounded.

C Sqn.
Dawn. 3Tp and 4Tp left for same area as 1Tp & 5Tp with 3Tp on the right. Diverted on X roads 284437 then to turn South to X roads 313403. 4Tp who were directed on ST MARTIN DE FRESNAY got on very fast in spite of very thick ground mist and passed through ECOTS by 0930 hours. 3Tp meanwhile had encountered many mines (Tellers), some of which were booby trapped and took some time to remove.
1020 hours – 4Tp was in ST MARTIN DE FRESNAY where one PoW was taken and found 2 abandoned French SOMUA tanks. 1Tp had meanwhile had been sent out to the right, directed on X roads 303405 from the West. At VAUDELOGES he encountered road blocks and many mines.
By 1130 hours 3Tp had reached the village of REVEILLON and was pushing South. Civilians reported enemy just ahead.
By 1200 hours 3Tp was approaching his objective from the North and 1Tp was coming in from the West. The X roads were seen to be held – men moving about and 2 Polish deserters came into 3Tp. Mines could also be seen on the road. An A/Tk gun, thought to be an SP at the time, suddenly opened up on 3Tp from the left flank and with its first shot destroyed the Dingo, which was the third vehicle in the Tp. Cpl Finch and Tpr Davies ’18 were killed instantly. The two leading ACs were confined to the road by hedges and banks and were actually protected from the A/Tk gun which later proved to be a Mk IV tank with a 75mm long special gun. The Dingo was burning in the middle of the road, blocking it, but after a few minutes it rolled slowly forwards and off the road into the ditch. Lt Ballingal decided to try and drive back, passed the area covered by the A/Tk gun, using reverse steering. A very near miss which completely blinded the driver with dust and smoke put the car into the ditch (later recovered). At the same time a Bazooka from the X roads area knocked out and brewed up the leading car. The crews of both these cars got out OK and made it to the White Scout car which had kept in W/T touch with SHQ. 2Lt Esch with 1 DAC and 1 Dingo from 5Tp had joined the White and Lt Ballingal took a 38 (portable) set and went on foot to try and get observation on the gun which had done the damage. 7Tp shelled the area and also the area of the X roads. The following day when the enemy had withdrawn the gun was found to be a Mk IV Special tank which was abandoned. The nearest shell had been within 20 ft of the tank.
1Tp had meanwhile got as far as Pt. 128 2840 from where he got good observation, and a foot patrol forward to within 100 yards of the X roads. There he heard a rifle bolt being operated in a house nearby, also some enemy with an MG just to the South of the X roads. Sgt Davies, i/c Scout section, decided it was time to withdraw to the Tp from where he conducted a shoot with 7Tp on the enemy he had located.
3Tp took another 3 PoWs. 4Tp had got forward as far as the bridge at 323438 which was OK but surrounded by many enemy on foot with MGs – of which he took 4 PoW. Just then an A/Tk gun opened up on the leading car but missed and the Tp withdrew to 50 yards our side of the bridge from where he covered it with MG and 2pdr.
5Tp Lt Creaton and a Scout section opened up the road, together with a Canadian AC Tp from X roads 285435 to NOTRE DAME DE FRESNAY. More mines were encountered and lifted.
5Tp Ldr did a personal recce on a bicycle to a farm at 305439 where he found an abandoned 106 mm gun.
In the evening A Sqn sent four Tp Ldrs to visit our Tp Ldrs with a view to taking over the following day which they duly did.
On these two days 17/18th the recce had been in very close country with close contact with the enemy. An advance of some 3 – 4 miles had been made – all of it in the face of opposition by enemy who took full advantage of the very close country and who had a proportion of A/Tk weapons on every road. The Scout Tp came fully into their own and played a vital part in:-

i) lifting mines,
ii) dismounted daylight recce with No. 39 set and Bren and Sten guns which no other formation appeared to undertake,
iii) treating and evacuating casualties,
iv) any odd jobs which came their way.

The Gun Tp (7Tp) fired nearly 200 rounds per day. Each Tp and Scout section had been trained as OP and all opposition which could not be taken on with direct MG fire was engaged with indirect HE fire which in practically every case caused the enemy to withdraw.
The AC Troops had a difficult and dangerous task; which they carried out with great determination and gained valuable information locating and in some cases identifying the enemy. Altogether 11 PoW were taken and several others of the enemy, if not wounded, were very frightened. Nearly 100 mines were rendered harmless. Against this 2 men were killed and one DAC and one Dingo were lost and one man injured.

B Sqn.
4Tp and 5Tp were out; 4Tp only in readiness, 2 miles West of BOISSEY. 5Tp had some fun with 8th Hussars and would have taken 20 PoW but for bad tracks. The direction of advance was East and 5Tp moved with the leading Sqn of 8th Hussars and by 1600 hours were by-passing ST MARGUERITE DES LOGES on the North. They captured a lorry containing typewriters.
At 1800 hours it became important to get a way across the river VIE and as the main road was blocked to LIVAROT, 5Tp tried to the North and got as far as ST MICHEL DE LIVET where enemy were reported to have pulled out just before. The little bridge 2 miles North of LIVAROT was reported as intact.
We could not understand why we were allowed to get through, but a German operation order captured later mentioned that ACs had broken through a gap between two Regtl boundaries. There was much trouble throughout the day from Spitfires who kept strafing our own forward troops due apparently, to having been given an incorrect bomb line.
The whole Sqn spent the night in a lovely orchard at BERVILLE but the bombing at night was uncomfortably close.

D Sqn.
The Sqn moved to BOISSEY in the evening, machined gunned by Typhoons, bombing in DIVES area during the night.

C Sqn.
Sqn moved into Regtl reserve area BOIS DU ROI 4475.

A Sqn.
Four patrols were used and left at first light.
2Tp Lt Sutton advanced to area GARNETOT where he reported 60 Infantry in wood at 325395. The Scout section Sgt Fitzpatrick was sent in to investigate and was engaged at close range. He was forced to withdraw and in so doing reported one man, Tpr Kirkham, adrift. He went back under cover of fire of the sub-unit and brought him back. The Infantry were then shelled by Gun Tp. C Sqn Gun Tp were under command and Lt Brett Smith was GPO. A sweep of the woods was made but no results could be observed except that all shots fell in the target area. The Infantry were still in position at last light. Teller mines were picked up by the Scout section. During the day’s activities the section took 7 PoW.
4Tp Lt Hodgkinson advanced to Y roads 338425, South of LE BILLOT and reported Infantry on the ridge in area 406687 which was SE of LE BILLOT, which he engaged. An SP gun reported at 402687 was not confirmed by the Tp but an ammunition lorry loaded with 75mm ammunition was found in this position, the lorry was destroyed.
3Tp Lt Hunt advanced in the direction of LE BILLOT. At X roads 333434 an SP gun was engaged by Gun Tp Lt Brett Smith. Very good fire orders were given by Lt Hunt and the area was stonked after 1 ranging shot. The SP gun was made to withdraw. The Tp then advanced to LE BILLOT where another target was found for Gun Tp, and this was a party of Infantry. All shots fell in the target area and on the following day 5Tp confirmed that 4 dead Germans attested to the accuracy of the guns. A further advance was made to X roads 406693 where the Tp was forced to withdraw owing to Nebelwerfer fire.
1Tp Sgt Hall moved out to AMMEVILLE to act as cover to 2Tp. His Scout section LCpl Ogden took 2 PoW from a farm at 325401.
The gun Tp had a field day, firing off 300 rounds. This pleased the Gun Tp enormously.
SHQ remained in the area of COURCY all day. Lt Woodhouse returned from hospital having recovered from his bout of malaria. He took over 4Tp and Lt Hodgkinson remained with the Tp as a car commander to gain a little more experience. All Tps were withdrawn at last light.

B Sqn.
3Tp was out and by 0800 hours Lt Chapman had reported the bridge 2 miles North of LIVAROT as intact and clear. This report caused the whole of 22nd Armd Bde to put heir centre line across there too. There were one or two enemy tanks East of LIVAROT by the cemetery which prevented anyone swanning across; they were heavily shelled.
3Tp went across at 1500 hours having done some good reporting in the morning from a position West of the river, and did a chukka 4 miles beyond the river into some very thick country up the hill.
The Queens had formed a bridgehead and we were to recce in front of it. After actually shoving the cars through overgrown lanes, 3Tp fetched up at 1900 hours quite unexpectedly at the cemetery from the enemy side and reported it clear.
5Tp went over and went up the road North as far as a blown bridge which was held. Lt Sivewright used the 75’s to good effect and took 5 PoW.
It was a wet evening and we spent the night at ST MARGUERITE DES LOGES in a house.

D Sqn.
Standing by to go out but no appreciable advance so none out. Heavy bombing during the night in BOISSEY area, no damage to us.

C Sqn.
In reserve.

A Sqn.
The Sqn was directed on the bridges spanning the R LA VIE between 463702 and ST FOY LE MONTGOMMERY. Three Tps were used with 4Tp in the North, 1Tp in the South and 5Tp in the centre, all working East. Tps left at first light and shortly afterwards SHQ moved to LE VAL and later to X roads 4269.
4Tp Lt Woodhouse advanced as far as Y roads 450692 where roads were mined and bridges over R MOUNE were mined. He was ordered to detour North through TORTIS AMBERT. On his way he found an abandoned Panther in good condition at 450709. He crossed the R LE VIE at 463702 and advanced South to the bridge at LA BREVIERE and on to the bridge at MONGOMMERY, which was defended by 35 Infantry with A/Tk guns. He was assisted by a patrol of D Sqn but at last light the Infantry were still in position and the Tp was withdrawn to SHQ.
1Tp Sgt Hall and 5Tp Lt Osborne advanced as far as the line of the R MOUNE and found bridges blown at LA CHAPELLE.
A great deal of hard work was put in by these Tps in recceing tracks and bridges. They took 4 PoW during the day. All Tps returned to SHQ at last light at LONGCHAMPS.

B Sqn.
4Tp and 1Tp were out working along the two roads going East from LIVAROT, 4Tp on the left of the road to FERVAQUES and 1Tp on the right on the ORBEC road. The later soon proved to be strongly held and was taken over by D Sqn, so 1Tp was redirected to catch up with 4Tp, who got on very well and by noon had reached ST MARGUERITE DES LOGES. French Maquis and FFI people were being the greatest help and we try now to one with every Tp. Civilians were also very useful and used to tell us that there was an A/Tk gun round the corner etc. Usually their reports were accurate but their idea of distances are sometimes a long way out.
By 1500 hours 4Tp had reached the road junction 1 mile West of FERVAQUES unopposed except for odd Infantry and snipers and they had taken 10 PoW. 1Tp nearly got a half-track which was dodging around.
The 5th RTR were very slow in coming up and 4Tp and 1Tp were miles out on their own for about six hours until 1900 hours when they did turn up and eventually get into FERVAQUES that night. 1Tp got two MCs.
At 2000 hours civilians reported a Tiger tank moving West from FERVAQUES with the usual result that everyone sat down and dug in their toes. The centre line was hopelessly blocked and 1Tp and 4Tp spent the night with 5th RTR.
SHQ and 2Tp were just NW of LIVAROT with C Sqn, and the Sqn Ldr in the Dingo with LCpl Oakes got blocked in traffic on the way back from 1Tp and 4Tp and spent the night with Lt Campbell, now of D Sqn.
In the night the enemy cut the centre line 300 yards East of the Sqn Ldr. It was the wettest night for years comparing favourably with the famous downpour at SALERNO.

D Sqn.
Moved at 0600 hours to ST MICHEL DE LIVET. 1Tp on main road to ORBEC worked forward to cemetery area and onto a road block at 480727 working around ESE. His DSC was hit by a gun of some sort and KO’d at 480727. One DAC went in the ditch but all got back except LCpl Crispin and Tpr Philpin. 4Tp relieved 1Tp and all remained the same except for heavy stonking by Div artillery and occasional Nebelwerfer by the Germans.
2Tp went South down the river but not till evening did he reach the bridge at 475695 due to considerable fire to the East and a tank reported to the West. Met A Sqn patrol and whilst observing across the bridge was Nebelwerfered, Lt Pybus being wounded. Captured a staff car, 2 officers and 12 ORs.
3Tp proceeded along the high ground running South and patrolled to the main road but was held up by an A/Tk gun and Infantry at 478720 as well as being under observation of the enemy in front of 1Tp. Wireless was very bad.
At 1500 hours 3Tp was despatched to ST MARGUERITE DES LOGES to go South to the main road. 1Tp were on the East of the forest but were held up by Infantry and MGs just South of the village. Captured a staff car, 1 officer and 5 ORs. Remained out for the night.

C Sqn.
Sqn took over from B Sqn between LIVAROT and FERVAQUES. Tps left before dawn but came up behind tanks on a one-way road; the tanks themselves being held up by bad going after a very wet night in which the whole Sqn got soaked. The bulldozers required to repair the road could not get to the area and it was decided to turn a tank Regt round on a one-way road causing further confusion. The Div and Bde commanders had recently, to our great regret, been changed which in no way lessened the confusion. The Tps busied themselves exploring all the side tracks but most of these were blocked by our own bomb craters. 2Tp, 1Tp and 5Tp were directed on respectively FERVAQUES, bridge 535754 and bridge 5380 all on the river TOUQUES.
5Tp on the left reached his position passing on the way 1 MT burning and another broken down also seeing signs and hearing reports of enemy in the woods on either side of the road. The bridge at 5380 was blown and impassable to traffic except bicycles and foot patrols.
2Tp crossed the river at FERVAQUES together with one Sqn of 5th RTR and one coy Rifle Brigade. The area was heavily shelled and mortared and Nebelwerfered one of which landed within less than 5 yards of Cpl Howard’s White Scout car. Tpr Heinman was killed.
Towards evening FERVAQUES was counter-attacked by enemy tanks and Infantry. Owing to the limited size of out bridgehead over the river all 2Tp less the Tp Ldr in the Dingo were withdrawn.
1Tp reached his objective passing a derelict Tiger on the way, he patrolled South to 520737 and then due South for 1000 yards where there were reported to be enemy. This was confirmed and they were engaged by 7Tp. Results not observed.
5Tp had many enemy around them during the evening which they engaged with MG. One bicycle patrol of 6 approached to within revolver range of Lt Creaton who fired 5 rounds at 5 yards range without claiming a hit. The men escaped into the bushes but the bicycles were captured. Possibly the MG fire was more effective but results were hard to observe.
Fairly heavy shelling in SHQ area but luckily just wide. All Tps withdrawn for the night.

A Sqn.
Remained at LONGCHAMPS until 1500 hours when the Sqn moved up to RHQ at LE MENSIL GERMAIN. For the remainder of the day and night the Sqn acted as local protection to RHQ as we were in hostile country and in danger from snipers.
During the night 2Tp blocked the road South of RHQ at 502737. It was expected that enemy tanks may come North, therefore a line of Hawkins grenades was laid across the road and a 75mm gun loaded with AP was positioned to fire down the road. The sub-unit laid their guns on a fixed line of fire. Nothing happened and the Tp returned at 0730 hours.

B Sqn.
1Tp and 4Tp were unavoidably on patrol again as the others were jammed up in the traffic, 2Tp were trying to force their way through.
B Sqn was now switched left handed to LISIEUX and 1Tp and 4Tp moved off at 0800 hours with the Sqn Ldr through LE MESNIL GERMAIN to the big X roads at 1979 where 1st RTR HQ was. 1Tp was directed down the main road running North into LISIEUX and had a great day with the leading Sqn of 1st RTR. It was not an AC job but Lt Young reported all day on the enemy who were very troublesome with Bazookas at ST MARTIN DE LA LIEUE, 3 miles South of LISIEUX, and also on what our tanks were doing; he was very busy with his Sten gun, taking odd German PoW.
On the right 4Tp were directed down the road to ST GERMAIN DE LIVET. There were lots of German Infantry about and they made things pretty hot, but 4Tp managed to get nearly to ST GERMAIN DE LIVET by the end of the day during which they took 10 PoW, killed 8 Germans and did some damage with the 75’s. the trouble as usual with the 75’s is the risk of killing civilians.
2Tp came up and went down the main road behind 1Tp.
SHQ came down the LISIEUX road 1 mile beyond the big X roads and in the evening B1 came down to the X roads. At 2130 hours the patrols were pulled in and the Sqn leaguered together ½ mile East of the X roads with the 25pdrs making an unearthly din almost in the same field. 1Tp and 4Tp had had two hard days and had acquitted themselves well.

D Sqn.
At first light 4Tp were embroiled in a suicidal attack by Hitler Youth from the forest, in company with a Plt of Queens. One Mark IV appeared at close range and knocked out a 6pdr, it was later KO’d by 5th DG. Lt Cousins went to help some Queens to the South in his DSC and only got out by driving across country and through 3 hedges under heavy MG fire at 50 yards range. He arrived back with only one gear, the Queens having left him by himself.
3Tp was relieved by 5Tp who reached 515735 after heavy stonking by the 75’s. 2Tp remained in observation on the bridge at 475695 and stonked enemy Infantry on the high ground to the NE with success, according to civilians.

C Sqn.
Three Tp Ldrs in Dingo took over FERVAQUES area. The Infantry were responsible for enlarging the bridgehead to one mile days before the Tp took over. This did not take place till after midday.
4Tp took over the right and went to bridge at 3373. The road was very narrow and close country on either side so progress was slow and for the most part was led by men on foot. It was not until 1600 hours that the bridge was finally reached on foot – it was very narrow and not up to much weight – also 3 tanks were heard on the far side and several enemy seen.
By this time progress was being made East from FERVAQUES and by 1610 hours 3Tp complete was at 559759 with 2Tp following up.
By 1735 hours they were at 365759 going through a thick forest and at 1822 hours they joined A Sqn who had come down from the North.
2Tp took over from 3Tp to try and reach X roads 393742. Country still very thick and shortly before the X roads noise of tanks was heard ahead. Tp Ldr Lt Wentworth Stanley went forward in the Dingo and when he was very close he dismounted and crawled along the hedge to try and see them. He was engaged by MG fire from the area X roads and was hit in the shoulder. He withdrew and was brought back to SHQ where the MO was waiting. His wound was not serious luckily missing all bones, nerves, etc. Tps were again withdrawn for the night.

A Sqn.
At 1000 hours orders were received to recce the area South of LISIEUX between the rivers TOUQUES and D’ORBEC and also the bridges over the D’ORBEC between LE ROCRAI and CHAPELLE YVON.
Two Tps were used to do this, 3Tp & 4Tp, with two in immediate reserve. 4Tp crossed the TOUQUES at ST MARTIN DE LA LIEUE and advanced South to ST CYR DU RONCERAI and reported no movement seen. He reported an explosion in area 6077 which was the bridge being blown at LA CHAPELLE YVON. He was ordered to meet with a patrol of C Sqn at X roads 576746. The X roads were clear but the tracks of a Tiger were seen. He then recced the bridge at ST PIERRE. When close to the bridge, Lt Woodhouse contacted some of the local people who reported that the bridge was prepared for demolition and that there were 150 Germans on the East side of the river in a position of defence.
As other bridges had been blown at the sight of a patrol, he was ordered to keep under cover and send his Scout section forward on foot. They were observed and shelled from the high ground on the East side of the river and forced to withdraw. Four PoW were taken, two of them Russian soldiers who had been pressed into a labour gang. On returning to SHQ at last light the Tp Ldr reported a large explosion and that the bridge had been blown.
3Tp Lt Hunt crossed the TOUQUES behind 4Tp and advanced South on the East flank of 4Tp. He was ordered to recce the bridge at LE ROCRAI. He advanced to the bridge but it was blown on his arrival, and also a bridge to the North at 573384. There was a short exchange of shots between the patrol and dug-in enemy Infantry. An explosion in the area of the bridge at ST MAILLOC was heard and it was found that the bridge had been blown. The Tp took one PoW. On his return to SHQ he reported continuous MET movement SE on the East side of the river.
All Tps returned to SHQ at 510823 at last light.

B Sqn.
2Tp and 5Tp were on patrol at daybreak, 2Tp down the main road to LISIEUX and then NE to where the 1st RTR with the Queens were trying to to get across the R ORBEC. 5Tp were on the road to ST GERMAIN DE LIVET.
2Tp were working with the leading Sqn of 1st RTR who were trying to get on to the high ground NE of LISIEUX. An attack in the morning failed and they were unable to get across all day.
2Tp were shelled and mortared all day, which included having a tank brew up 4 yards from Lt Burridge’s car, and reported most accurately on 2 A/Tk guns just North of the river, and a line of about 12 88mm on the high ground about 5588.
5Tp obliged to go slow because of the mist got down to ST GERMAIN DE LIVET at about midday where they found one 105mm intact and abandoned and a further five 105’s on the road North of the place. Lt Sivewright had been told by civilians about these guns, had got observation on them and had then shelled them as thy lined up on the road; the shells landed amongst them and the crews fled and abandoned the guns. We are finding out that the 75’s are very accurate and quite invaluable in the hands of Sgt Matheson. When 5Tp had counted their bag they were recalled to SHQ.
3Tp were sent out at about 0800 hours to follow up 2Tp and get a good position from where they could see LISIEUX, 1 mile West of 2Tp. We had not been told to go into LISIEUX which had been reported as strongly held, but 1st RTR were told to, so on the principle of “first in” Lt Chapman, at 1100 hours, advanced and got into the centre of the town in front of the Infantry by going down some side streets, round a blow in the road which held up 1st RTR for a further 6 hours.
3Tp found many snipers and supported the Infantry until the tanks arrived. When they did come the Germans started shelling and mortaring the place; Lt Chapman refused to leave the Infantry until they were withdrawn in the evening.
When 3Tp got into LISIEUX, the 11th Hussars were immediately ordered to “splice the Mainbrace”.
2Tp and 3Tp were withdrawn at 2130 hours to a good position at BECQUAL to which the remainder of the Sqn came. It was a bit close to the Germans but one also wants to avoid the centre lines and bridges which are sometimes bombed at night, and our own guns whose noise does not aid a good nights sleep. B Sqn was told we would have no patrols out in the morning so they retired to bed very pleased with themselves after 10 days continually operating.

D Sqn.
5Tp carried on to the main road and turned East, joining up with 2Tp and the Canadians, reaching bridge at 535715 which was blown.
2Tp found Tpr Philpin shot near the DSC and both cars unburnt. They were recovered during the day. There was no sign of LCpl Crispin.
3Tp had gone to the small bridge and met the Canadians and the Tps were called in at 1300 hours. Sqn concentrated at 508775 with RHQ.

C Sqn.
Lt Gale took over 2Tp.
Midday. SHQ and two Tps crossed the TOUQUES to area X roads 520723. 1Tp and 5Tp were sent to contact the Canadians at ORBEC and to try and get North and NE from there but the Canadians were held up by enemy tanks and A/Tk guns in that direction.
3Tp meanwhile found a crossing at LA CHAPELLE YVON and 1Tp and 5Tp were withdrawn from ORBEC, crossed the river at ORBEC (which was known in code as Peters).
In the evening the 3 patrols went from 623806 and 617806 in a NW direction. By dark they had all gone between 2 – 3 miles without contact, but numerous ‘civvy’ reports. Weather was very bad, heavy rain made W/T very difficult.
Patrols were withdrawn for the night which was very wet.

A Sqn.
As it was found that all bridges recced the previous day had been blown the Sqn was ordered to recce the position in LISIEUX. 2Tp Lt Sutton advanced to LISIEUX from the South and found it held by the enemy. He met patrols of 1st RTR and the Queens on the southern outskirts of the town and they penetrated 1000 yards but were held up by an A/Tk gun on the X roads 586980 which was later knocked out. Street fighting and sniping was taking place between enemy Infantry and the 51st Highland Div in the North part of the town and enemy Infantry versus 131 Bde (Queens) in the South part of the town. 22nd Armd Bde (1st & 5th RTR and Skins) and 1st Btn rifle Bde were punching the enemy on the high ground SE of the town. The battle surged through the streets all day and Lt Sutton and his Tp were under constant fire from guns and small arms and was unable to make any advance despite trying several alternative routes. In so doing his Daimler Scout car was overturned whilst being fired on. He was ordered to proceed SE of the town and take up a position of observation behind 22nd Armd Bde and await an opportunity for a break through.
This did not materialise and at last light the position was much the same and all Tps were called into SHQ at 531844.

B Sqn.
We retired from our slightly exposed position of rest, as sixteen 88’s were reported on the next ridge, to ST GERMAIN DE LIVET a most attractive village. We began to collect our small army of Maquis who proved to be very useful to us later on.

D Sqn.
Moved at first light. 3Tp and 5Tp to try and get through LISIEUX. This not possible so 3Tp and 4Tp stayed in area 425840 and 5Tp worked up to area 460845 where he was heavily stonked whenever he showed himself.
75’s had a good shoot, one staff car KO’d and casualties inflicted (according to civilians). There appeared to be considerable fighting in LISIEUX. Tps came in during the evening, Sgt Keen fell ill and Lt Cousins took over 4Tp.

C Sqn.
4Tp relieved 1Tp otherwise same patrol lines were taken as previous day.
5Tp on his start point encountered a large enemy half-track with 40 mm Flak gun on it. He engaged it with 2pdr and scored a hit on the front visor which was enough for the crew who surrendered with one badly wounded, (8 of them). They were from 185th Coy 3rd Pz Flak JUGEND. The half-track was otherwise undamaged and was returned to B3 Echelon.
By 1000 hours 3Tp was in sight of main road at 600872 and 4Tp and 5Tp were approaching it further to the East, 4Tp taking 4 PoW on the way.
4Tp went due East down the main road with the ‘Skins’ following up. Weather again very wet which interfered with the W/T but progress was rapid and by evening 4Tp was about 1 mile short of BRIONNE where he encountered road blocks and felled trees across the road and covered by A/Tk guns.
5Tp went NE towards PONT-AUTHOU. Here they had another encounter with a half-track which came out of a side turning behind the 2 leading DACs and the Dingo but in front of the White Scout car. Before the DAC turrets could be traversed to the rear, the enemy had realized his error and reversed into a soap factory from which there was a side entrance from which he escaped.
SHQ concentrated complete in area X roads 912905 having advanced nearly 30 miles in the day and overtaken a fair amount of abandoned enemy material including one Tiger tank.

A Sqn.
At first light 3Tp Lt Hunt advanced to LISIEUX and was informed the enemy was still in the previous days position. He was ordered to push on past the X roads where the A/Tk gun had been, he reported no movement seen. He eventually got out on the East side of the town and found the enemy withdrawn. It was later learned that a large scale Infantry attack had been laid on to oust the enemy from his position. This was a brilliant piece of work by Lt Hunt who recced a way through a wrecked township and carried on East in the wake of a retreating enemy. In fact it was the starting pistol for a grand chase of 30 miles to the line of the R LA RISLE. It was marred by torrential rain the whole way but was very exhilarating.
After advancing East from the town 3Tp ran into a minefield at 555880, these were picked up by the Scout section and the Tp carried on East as far as the R CALLONE where they were called in to SHQ. 14 PoW were taken.
1Tp Sgt Hall advanced along the main road running East and 5Tp Lt Osborne took a general line in the centre and advanced East. All three Tps were held up on the R CALLONE by blown bridges.
1Tp and 5Tp were ordered South on to the main road at BEAUJOUS then NE to LIEURY and ST GEORGE DU VIEVRE. 5Tp advanced to LIEURY but was held up at LA VIGNE by an A/Tk gun and Infantry and snipers to the South of the town. He captured a 4 wheel AC and 7 PoW after a short skirmish.
1Tp advanced NE towards ST GEORGE and reached the high ground at 779955 where he was held up by a tank and Infantry. He captured 7 PoW.
All Tps were called in at last light to SHQ whose position was LA VAL. A great day for the Sqn especially Lt Hunt and his Tp.

B Sqn.
At midday we moved in a thunderstorm via FERVAQUES to GLOS and then to FIRFOL. The enemy had, for the first time on our front, taken it into their heads to go, with C Sqn hot on their heels. We had a lovely farm and it was only the fact that we were ordered on that prevented a battle of words with a Canadian officer who threatened to put 1st Canadian Army HQ in there that afternoon. We went on passed THIBERVILLE to a place 4 miles South of LIEURY for the night.

D Sqn.
Tried again to get through LISIEUX but there was some fighting going on, in and around the town. The guns were used in a harassing role but only 2Tp was in observation as on the 23rd.

C Sqn.
Sqn job to recce 3 bridges over R RISLE at 894924, at PONT AUTHOU and at FRENEUSE.
By 0815 hours 1Tp was just short of PONT AUTHOU which proved to be held on the far side – the road was badly cratered by our bombing and it was not possible to reach the bridge by car but the scout section got forward and in spite of MG fire reported the bridge not blown. 4Tp having proved the southern bridge U/S went to FRENEUSE and found a good bridge which, though narrow, took tanks and this was made the centre line for 22nd Armd Bde.
One of 4Tp’s cars had almost overturned and got stuck earlier on. The Tp had to leave it awaiting LAD to tow it out. In the meantime they accepted the surrender of 4 Italian and 5 Russian deserters. They had probably been working on an uncompleted Flying Bomb base in the area. 1Tp also took 3 PoW from 182nd Arty Regt.
2Tp followed 4Tp over the bridge, 4Tp turning left and 2Tp turning right came down through PONT AUTHOU and then went East.
1Tp remained by approaches to PONT AUTHOU and was later joined by a bulldozer with some RE’s who started working on the road to the bridge.
2Tp got on fairly well with the ‘Skins’ but advance was slow owing to thick country with many enemy Infantry with MGs and bazookas. 2Tp DAC Cpl Johnson got to within 15 yards of some Germans before seeing them. They opened up with a burst of Spandau through the visor which somehow missed the driver though he had some splinters in the neck and shoulder. At the same time a bazooka was fired from the side of the road at the car which only did slight damage but wounded Cpl Johnson in the back of the neck. The other cars of the Tp also engaged these troops but they were deeply dug in and refused to show themselves anymore.
4Tp meanwhile had been held up by road blocks consisting of fallen houses across the road, which he had gradually removed and by 2000 hours he had reached GLOS SUR RISLE.
1Tp was withdrawn for the night but 2Tp remained out as the bridge was only one way.

A Sqn.
Our task was to recce all tracks leading to bridges over R LA RISLE. A plan was made for 4Tp to advance NE to MONTFORT, 2Tp to advance East to bridge at FRENEUSE SUR RISLE and 3Tp to advance NE in the centre to LA FORGE.
This was failed as 4Tp encountered fire as he approached ST GEORGE DU VIEVRE. A new plan was formed with 4Tp staying in position and 2Tp, 3Tp and 5Tp debauching South of the town and then East to the river. When the leading Tp reached the river, all three Tps to beat up North along the tracks through the weeds. This was put into effect. It was found that all bridges of a class to take heavy vehicles were blown. Lt Woodhouse found to his mortification and to his Sqn Ldr’s Major Petch, that he had been fired upon by friends which consequently meant that two days hard work were required by the Div to get across the river.
4Tp advanced to ST PIERRE DES IFS where he was held up by tanks and Infantry.
All Tps returned at last light to SHQ at 830948.

B Sqn.
B Sqn was given rather a special job. We were if possible to find a gap between LIEURY on the left and ST GEORGES DU VIE on the right and to raise the Maquis who were reported in strength at PORT AUDEMER. We had attached to us, Lt De Belmont, a French officer who went with 2Tp and 5Tp who were in the centre and hoped to find a gap between the main roads. 1Tp was on the left and 4Tp on the right. 1Tp reported LIEURY clear by 0800 hours and found an abandoned Mark IV in flames which he put out; Lt Young also found in a civilian house a trace of German defences of LE HAVRE which was given to the Canadians and I believe found very helpful. He then went up the road north for 2 miles where he was held up by an Infantry position across the road with 2 SP guns, some MGs and the road was mined; progress was impossible but Lt Young had some good sport, OPing for the 75’s and put the Infantry there to flight.
On the right, 4Tp bumped into opposition at ST GEORGES so he tried to get round by the NW in which they were partially successful and got onto the main road to PORT AUDEMER, but were abruptly halted by a Tiger tank 400 yards down the road which brewed up two over bold ACs of the 49th Div Recce who were taking over.
In the centre where we hoped to infiltrate through unnoticed, 2Tp doing ’inside left’ and 5Tp doing ‘inside right’ got on well at first in spite of the bad tracks but by 1100 hours 5Tp bumped opposition at ST ETIENNE LALLIER and 2Tp shortly afterwards on the same line. The country was very thick and Cpl Baguley saw Germans walking about 40 yards away. Lt Burridge and Lt Sivewright OP’d for the 75’s together but it was a proper line and the Germans were not going just for that.
By 1300 hours the 49th Div were all over our area saying it was theirs and we must get the hell out of it; sometimes one wonders who one is fighting!
At 1400 hours the Sqn was withdrawn and went East to join RHQ, 2 miles South of PORT AUTHOU where we leaguered in a nice village. Great care these days has to be taken in choosing night leaguers for the sSqn we always try to get under cover in barns and farms remembering that the enemy night bombers go first for bridges, towns and centre lines.

D Sqn.
Rained all day. C Sqn had got across R ORBEC to the South and A Sqn through LISIEUX. 2Tp found the bridge at 450860 intact but only up to 9 tons. The main road bridge at GLOS was blown.
The Sqn then came into reserve and moved during the day to ST AUBIN.

C Sqn.
3Tp and 5Tp crossed the river at PONT AUTHOU which had been mended during the night. 3Tp went up to relieve 2Tp and 4Tp and 5Tp pushed up North to the East bank of the river. Progress at first was slow as all the villages had been bombed and many of the houses had fallen across the road.
1345 hours – 5Tp reached 864035 and taken 1 PoW from 558 Grenadiers.
1425 hours – 4Tp reached 853074 and was engaged by 20 mm fire and also saw many enemy on the road either side of him. They engaged the Medium artillery on the X roads 8508. 5Tp had also advanced well and quickly up to 882062 where he met a civilian who reported an A/Tk gun just ahead. The Scout section went out to confirm this and 7Tp ‘sweetened’ the area. The Bde centre line was again switched to follow up 5Tp’s route.
SHQ moved up to MONTFORT SUR RISLE and was later joined by 3Tp, 4Tp & 5Tp. B Sqn took over.

A Sqn.
2Tp Lt Sutton verified bridges at MONTFORT were blown and reported full details.
1Tp Sgt Hall recced bridges at APPEVILLE and CONDE SUR RISLE and found them blown.
All Tps called to SHQ at 1500 hours.

B Sqn.
A morning for maintenance was rather welcome. In the afternoon we went over the river RISLE (supposed to be the best Trout stream in France) and up a hill to a little village called BONNEVILLE APPETOT where the locals were still lobbing out eggs buckshees, always a good sign. Then we were ordered to take over from C Sqn next morning and moved back to MONTFORT SUR RISLE and slept in a meadow beside the river and had a quiet night.

D Sqn.
At midday 1Tp, 3Tp and 5Tp were despatched to get over the Canadian bridge at BRIONNE. 1Tp to the NE up the main road; he reached BOSROBERT and came under heavy fire from an 88mm. 3Tp and 5Tp to PONT AUTHOU where 3Tp remained and 5Tp moved East meeting enemy in BONNEVILLE which he stonked with 7Tp, KO’d one 3 ton lorry. Bombing at night. 1Tp captured 17 PoW at Y junc 9797 and stonked a tank.

C Sqn.
Sqn went into reserve.
These last few days had again been slightly different in that we made considerable advances up to 30 miles in a day but the enemy were not really disorganised and usually had an A/Tk gun waiting for us at the end. The difficulty being to know where the ‘end’ was.
In this respect information from civilians was of the greatest value and seldom lacking, but confirmation had always to be obtained which was difficult without being shot at.

A Sqn.
With RHQ in reserve at BONNEVILLE APPETOT.

B Sqn.
The Sqn was ordered to recce in front of 22nd Armd Bde between BOUVILLE and ROUTOT on the right. We were determined to see the SEINE before the end of the day. 1Tp was on the right directed on ROUTOT but that was very optimistic as the enemy had got sufficient A/Tk guns supported by Infantry and the odd tank between LES BAUDOUINS and ROUGEMONTIERS to hold up the 1st RTR. Lt col Hobart commanding 1st RTR would not allow Lt Young to go forward as it was too dangerous but for the morning he did some useful reporting on the general situation.
5Tp in the centre were directed on ETREVILLE but very soon were switched to help 3Tp. 3Tp were on the left directed on BOURNEVILLE and Lt Chapman thought he had a better chance of getting there first and being more useful by going NW of it.
Civilian reports of enemy in BOURNEVILLE turned out to be true and by 1100 hours when Lt Chapman was North of the road he saw an enemy column coming along the road going West behind him. It was a lovely target and 3Tp knocked out 1 lorry and two 20mm, killing most of the crews; anything that came along the road got smartened up. But the Skins in their drive were flushing a lot of Infantry who retreated onto Lt Chapman who was well placed in the butts; but 3Tp, sited in an orchard, were forced to have all round protection with Sgt McGuire’s car facing North, the Dingo – Cpl Purkiss East and only Lt Chapman’s car facing South; at the critical moment with about 60 fat German Infantry only 50 yards away, practically running up the barrels of 3Tp’s guns, Lt Chapman’s Besa jammed, could not be fixed and before they knew where they were Germans were all around the cars; Sgt MacGuire’s car had 3 bullets through the radiator, Cpl Purkiss had no field of fire for his K guns and there was nothing for it but to bale out North and then West which they did, driving across the fields.
5Tp were now told to go and support 3Tp but were held up by a bazooka which just missed Sgt Orchard’s car, exploding in the bank beside him and half-blinding Tpr Stanier, his driver. Lt Sivewright had a stick grenade thrown at him which exploded on the turret of his car; he was quite undeterred. There appeared to be no other way round and in the meantime 3Tp were cut off with one car semi-immobile (Sgt McGuire did actually check the leaking radiator with porridge). The Skins were asked to help but it took nearly 3 hours to get this opportunist bazooka man shifted; after that 5Tp were seen through and got to 3Tp by 1700 hours.
However, 3Tp had not wasted their time while waiting on the eastern side of LILLETOT and Lt Chapman OP’d for the 75’s with great effect on Germans who kept on coming out of LILLETOT in increasing numbers; it was rather like stinking rabbits out of a burrow. Lt Chapman had the satisfaction of seeing a horse drawn 88mm turn completely over in the panic and seeing the shells landing right among the Germans running away. By 2000 5Tp reached TACQUEVILLE and Lt Sivewright climbed the church tower and looked at the SEINE only 1 ½ miles away.
1Tp on the right had been rather neglected but Lt Young had been shooting up German Infantry positions, especially one man who kept watching them through field glasses, but the could not kill him. Then there was a chance in getting through and the Rifle Brigade’s arrived in force, 1Tp was withdrawn at about 1900 hours to SHQ. The 75’s had a great day firing well over 300 rounds.
Total bag – 25 killed, 28 PoW, two 20mm destroyed, 2 HDT destroyed, one 88mm knocked out.

D Sqn.
2Tp to Y junc 9797 and then North and reached position 2 miles South of BOURG-ACHARD which was held and which we stonked.
3Tp to TONVILLE and held up at ILLEVILLE by enemy in the forest at 9106. OP’d from church tower and was machine gunned from behind. He was given away by a local who was afterwards taken in hand by the Maquis. Tpr Campbell was shot in the foot and evacuated.
4Tp got on very quickly aided by an 8th Hussars Tp and reached the road at 850075 to find an A/Tk gun at the road junc to his East and enemy in the woods on the sides of the road. Got stonked by mortars and finally had to withdraw 3000 yards. 51st Highland Div in TONVILLE area during the day. A battle ensued in the BOURG-ACHARD area with 8th Hussars and as nothing could be achieved due to the close country the Tps were called in at 1800 hours to SHQ at EPREVILLE.

B Sqn.
We moved back to FORET DE MONTFORT for 2 days rest. The officers chased partridges in the afternoon but appear better shots with K guns at Germans as the partridges got away. The Sqn Ldr appears incapable of hitting either Germans or partridges.

D Sqn.
Moved to area ILLEVILLE and joined Regt to reorganise and do maintenance. Rained nearly all day. Lt Hunter joined the Sqn and posted to 3Tp under Lt Campbell.

B Sqn.
We moved to 12th Corps to complete the circle and have now been in every British Corps in France; the 11th Hussars are now back under 7th Armd Div, more or less for good, but instead of being the best and most famous Div in the army it seems that we are put up for auction to which ever Corps Commander will have us, an unprecedented comedown.
At 1500 hours we moved with the Regt to ST AUBIN D’ECROSVILLE where luckily we were in a farm as it pored with rain.

D Sqn.
Spent the day finishing off maintenance. Moved at 1545 hours to ST AUBIN under 12th Corps near LOUVIERS, via BRIONNE.

1) to capture enemy fighter-bomber bases in the Low countries,
2) to free Channel ports for supplies,
3) to capture Flying-bomb bases.

12th Corps to cross the SEINE at LOUVRIES and drive NE towards ABBEVILLE. 11th Hussars and 1st RD both given “carte blanche” and directed on the crossings of the R SOMME.

A Sqn.
Moved with RHQ to area LOUVIERS and crossed the SEINE at ST PIERRE.

B Sqn.
A soaking day spent in reorganising maps for the great pursuit which had started in earnest.

D Sqn.
Rained all day. Plans to move at 1800 hours cancelled.

1) left flank protection of 12 Corps depending on the speed of the Canadian advance,
2) recce in front of 22nd Armd Bde.

LA VEUINLE was reached at 0900 hours. D Sqn were sent to recce to the left in the ARGUEIL area then North to FORGES LES EAUX. A Sqn recced North in front of 22nd Armd Bde and by last light the Regt had reached the area of CRIQUIERS. Many PoW were taken and enemy resistance was found around AUMALE. Lt Hunt A Sqn was wounded and the 2 members of his crew were killed by a German bazooka fired at very close range.
During the night and the early hours of the morning 4th Canadian Armd Div passed through our left.
The month of August was a memorable month. It saw the end of the tiring days in the beach-head area and the hard fighting South of TILLY and around CAEN and the enemy bombing by night. During this month the Regt had worked under five different Corps and had fulfilled a varied selection of roles.
The Regt had killed over 100 Germans and wounded a further 60. It took over 300 PoW and accounted for over 25 vehicles of various types.

A Sqn.
Moved with RHQ to LA FEVILLE. Orders were given to advance towards R. SOMME with the centre patrol on the Bde axis.
3Tp was axis Tp and advanced to GAILLEFONTAINE where he engaged Infantry. In doing so he was fired on by a bazooka and his car was brewed up. Lt Hunt was blown out of the car and was wounded in the shoulder, knee and hand. He suffered from a fractured knee and shoulder and lost 3 fingers of his left hand. He was taken by the Germans and left with some nuns in GAILLEFONTAINE until attended to by our RMO. The driver, Tpr Smith ’70 and operator, LCpl Knight, were both killed outright and unable to be removed from the burning vehicle until the next day. Two really fine chaps were lost to us.
4Tp Lt Woodhouse took over axis and advanced to ALANCOURT where he reported 200 Infantry and 2 A/Tk guns. He was unable to advance further and at last light friends were engaging the enemy.
1Tp Sgt Hall was on the left and 2Tp Lt Sutton on the right and they covered a line running NE parallel with the axis on a 4 mile front. 1Tp entered GAILLEFONTAINE from the NW and the place reported clear, he also discovered Lt Hunt. 2Tp advanced to FORMIERE and from there towards X roads 699390. He was held up by enemy reported by 4Tp. During the day 53 PoW were taken by patrols and at last light all patrols were called in to SHQ at CRIQUIERS.

B Sqn.
The Regt moved at 0345 hours in the dark, it was worse than going out cub hunting. We went through LOUVIERS and across the SEINE then NW to LYONS LA FORET. 2Tp did a short patrol in front of RHQ who continually found themselves going into new country. We also escorted the Regtl B1 to CRIQUIERS where we got in very late and spent the night.

D Sqn.
Moved at 0330 hours to LOUVIERS, crossed the SEINE at ST PIERRE and reached LA FEUILLE at 0900 hours.
1Tp to NOLLEVALLE, no movement seen, then NE to ARGUEIL, then North to FORGES LES EAUX, no movement seen.
5Tp NE to BEAVAIS DE LYONS, no movement seen, then NE to 580260, no movement seen, then to FORGES LES EAUX. A few stragglers picked up and sundry spare Germans.
2Tp North to LA MAZIS to FEUIL. Enemy West of FORGES DES EAUX. 5Tp moved on to GAILLEFONTAINE followed by 1Tp then to AUMALE.
Bag 78 PoW, 4 killed, 9 wounded and 2 officers. During the night a staff car stopped by Sgt Cooper and a revolver duel ensued, wounding Sgt Cooper in the shoulder and leg. He however got one German officer in the stomach and another in the shoulder, but unfortunately they got away.

C Sqn.
Sqn in reserve with RHQ until 0900 hours when we had already advanced about 20 miles or so. Our orders were to advance as fast as possible to the two bridges over the SOMME at ETOILE and LONG. 5Tp and 1Tp were directed on these two bridges with 3Tp following up. Our line of advance was to the right of the Div centre line. This was also the centre line of the 4th Armd Bde which we did not know at the time and they were ahead of us at first.
By 1140 hours 5Tp was at 892708 and reported he could see enemy Infantry marching North at 9274 on the other side of the river. 3Tp then came up to that point and 5Tp pushed on to see if he could get to the bridge. 5Tp had already been engaged by 2 guns, either 75’s or 88’s from the South side of the river, but as he went forward down the hill he managed to get out of their sight.
2Tp, who had the Tp Ldr’s car damaged in a collision with a tank, was now under Sgt Davies and escorted the guns (7Tp) forward to 885672 to try and engage the enemy on the far side of the river. Their first target were 2 enemy MT, one towing a gun, over open sights at about 1 mile range, but these MT got into a wood.
By 1220 hours 1Tp had arrived at 879739 together with some tanks of the Greys. 3Tp was receiving regular reports from civilians of 2 A/Tk guns just ahead. As the leading car, Lt Esch, rounded the corner he was fired on by an A/Tk gun from the bridge itself. A second shot hit the front wheel and went right through the spare wheel and out through the back wheel. The crew got out ok in spite of the sniping from the houses around. The car was later salvaged and repaired.
1Tp together with a Tp of Greys tanks advanced on to their bridges – of which there were 3 – and managed to get across in spite of considerable opposition. There was also a large crater in the road and the third bridge was wooden and barely able to take tanks. 1Tp started to fill in the crater which was rapidly becoming impassable when a mortar shell landed among the party wounding five of them. Tprs Horrigan, Longlands, Leeming, Coldray and Parsons, the latter 3 slightly and they returned to the unit after treatment. Tpr Horrigan was fairly bad with wounds in the arm and leg. Tpr Horrigan had been an AC driver since the first day of the war and had invariably refused a rest or a change. He was never sick or sorry throughout the entire 5 years and was a magnificent example to all. It has since been heard that he is going on alright in hospital. Tpr Longlands had also recently refused to rest, having been a Dingo driver in 1Tp all through Italy and since landing in France. They were all evacuated back to SHQ in the White and the rest of the Tp remained in position by the bridge.
5Tp’s bridge at ETOILE was blown and he took 7 PoW of which 2 were Russians and 5 from 331 and 346 Div. The Sqn was placed under 4th Armd Bde but had the same role and by 1300 hours it was clear there was no further advance to be made on our front as the LONGPRE bridge got blocked by a tank stuck on it.
In the afternoon 4th Armd Bde with the Sqn still attached was ordered to cross the SOMME at AMIENS and were to go North just short of FLESSELLES. We arrived there just before midnight after an uneventful journey though a few German planes flew over and during the night a lone flying-bomb going south.

A Sqn.
The advance continued with Lt Woodhouse on the centre line and 1Tp and 5Tp feeling North and West at CAMPS EN AMIENOIS, 150 Germans with HDT were put in the bag by 4Tp. He then advanced North towards AIRAINES where the enemy were again encountered. By this time 1 & 5Tp had been called in to the centre line and were following 4Tp. 4Tp and 5Tp were withdrawn 1 mile and ordered NE to bye-pass AIRAINES which they did. Both Tps went on to the SOMME and found the bridge at 860764 blown and the bridge at 831778 was held in strength by the enemy.
1Tp went North West and had great difficulty in finding a route North to the SOMME and was eventually withdrawn. It was found that 4Tp and 5Tp were doing very little good where they were so 5Tp took up a position on the high ground at SOREL EN VIMU and registered the Gun Tp on the road running North from AIRAINES and the X roads at SOREL EN VIMU. A column of HDT on these X roads was stonked to good effect.
4Tp held a watching brief until last light on the bridge at 882758 which had been recced by C Sqn and found to be intact. During the day 200 PoW were taken by the patrols and one staff car. All Tps returned at last light.

B Sqn.
Moved early in reserve behind RHQ. Took 4 PoW. The idea was to get to the crossing over the R Somme though 11th Armd Div were already beyond AMIENS. It was a great “bum-on” and by 1200 hours we arrived with RHQ 4 miles of AIRAINES. 2Tp acted as local protection and led RHQ.
In the afternoon Lt Burridge guided the MO to C Sqn and Lt Young and Lt Sivewright picked up 3 PoW. Total for the day 7 PoW.

D Sqn.
At first light we moved through AUMALE. 2Tp went North, 4Tp went East and got on to HORMOY but was hampered by PoW. 1Tp was sent to take over the PoW while 4Tp went on.
2Tp reached LIONEM but found a road block and enemy Infantry at 748475 and it was not possible to get round.
It was now vital to get to the bridges on the SOMME. 5Tp was sent to HORNOY with 1Tp to try and get North to the West of AMIENS, just South of which 4Tp reported an A/Tk gun in action down the main road. 5Tp moved cross country to 843615 where he was stonked. He moved on to 831851 and got 2 lorries killing 3 Germans and wounding 7.
1Tp went across country and reached the main road at 803662 where he had a staff car and contents. The bridge at ALLERY was intact but nearly stonked. 1Tp went North and reached just South of HALLENCOURT and walked in finding only a few Germans.
The roads were hopeless and soft going across country. The lime got into our eyes and few could see at all by 1600 hours. Night spent at WALLUS. Bag 287 PoW and a lot of HDT, 1 staff car and 2 lorries, 8 killed and 16 wounded.

C Sqn.
We now reverted to command of the Regt again but were out of W/T range though we knew that they were on their way towards us. 3Tp and 5Tp were sent out at 0700 hours directed on BERNAVILLE and X roads 1377. RHQ came up on the air again and recalled 5Tp but kept 3Tp on the outskirts of BERNAVILLE which was held at first but was taken at about 1200 hours with some 100 PoW. 3Tp remained in the area and took a considerable number of PoW and also recaptured 4 men of the 8th Hussars. In all he took 4 officers and 24 ORs. SHQ and the remainder rounded up 1 officer and 23 ORs from a cornfield nearby. In the afternoon 3Tp was recalled and the Sqn together with RHQ moved up to NUNC 1203.
We did not arrive until late and there was heavy rain, we had also run out of maps of the area – the whole array except for a few 1/100000 and 1/250000.

A Sqn.
Moved with RHQ to NUNC crossing the R. SOMME at PICQUIGNY.

B Sqn.
Sqn was next for duty and moved with RHQ across the SOMME West of AMIENS and finished up at NUNCQ. A wet night disturbed by an odd party of Germans who shot an infantry officer looking for a leaguer area in NUNCQ and persisted in infiltrating and shooting straight down the road. Lt Burridge rescued a wounded infantry officer by going down the road to where he heard the firing – it was a fine show. He then parked his car in the middle of the road and shot 2pdr and Besa into the blackness. This deterred the enemy as he came no further.
Total bag for the day – 7 PoW.

D Sqn.
In reserve and moved over the SOMME and on to NUNCQ. Rained latter part of the day.

C Sqn.
Regt role was left flank guard to the Div and nothing was known of the enemy except that ST POL was held and that 1st RTR had bye-passed it to the West. Our start points were 105127, 075151 and 052770 directed NE with 1Tp, 4Tp and 5Tp respectively. The route to the start point was not known but had to pass through the small village of LA CROISETTE which was reached by about 0800 hours. The road from the South having been blocked by bomb craters on a flying bomb site which was completely destroyed.
1Tp passed through the village and 5Tp entered it contacting the BHQ of the Welsh Fusiliers. At the West end of the village Lt Creaton, who was leading, suddenly found himself amongst a number of enemy with an A/Tk gun. What occurred next is not fully known but according to civilians, the Germans promptly put up their hands. Lt Creaton covered them with his Sten gun. The Dingo was just behind the Tp Ldr’s car but the third car, Lt Esch Daimler, had been stopped by some Fusiliers to tell him (rather late in the day) that there were some enemy there.
Firing suddenly broke out ahead of Lt Esch and he went forward to investigate. As he came round the corner he saw the crew of the Dingo being marched away by Germans, also a vehicle on fire which he believed to be Lt Creaton’s car, though later it was found to be a German lorry; at the same time the A/Tk gun was swung round towards his car, he reversed back around the corner.
It took a long time to organise an attack on the enemy with the Infantry and by the time it went in the enemy had departed. Lt Creaton had been shot in the head and died instantly, the AC and the Dingo and the rest of the crews had gone. Lt Creaton had a magnificent record of Tp leading; which had started before the fall of TUNIS, carried on all through Italy and since landing in France. He was exceptionally brave and thorough and very accurate in all his reports. His loss was a great blow to all who knew him; he was a first class officer in every respect and most popular. It seems likely that his death was a typical act of German treachery, either it was one of those who had surrendered who shot him, or else some unseen enemy on which those who had raised their hands, promptly lowered them and attacked the remainder of the Tp. The full story will not be known until those who were made prisoners are recaptured.
1Tp who had passed through the village just before got up to X roads 139160 where 1st RTR had already passed through. 4Tp was pulled back SE to FLERS where he took 4 PoW. The remainder of 5Tp stayed at LA CROISETTE. Rev Wingfield Digby, who was a close friend of Lt Creaton, kindly came up during the afternoon and conducted a short service over his grave.
3Tp went to area 135110 to get observation on the main road running West from ST POL. Thus our role was changed from advancing NE to facing due West. The Div CL was switched to East of ST POL. The Tps remained in that position until evening. 1Tp was approached from the NE by a number of German Infantry and a lorry. Sgt Mitchell allowed them to approach close before he and Cpl Palmer opened up with 2pdr and Besa; a hit on the engine of the German lorry practically broke the lorry in half. Although they took 16 PoW of which 9 were wounded – 2 too badly hit to move so had to be left. Sqn was ordered to withdraw as 43 Div were now well in area, and had to rejoin the Regt who were now about 30 miles ahead. We went until dark but 1Tp and 3Tp were still far behind so we halted for the night.

A Sqn.
The Sqn advanced on a three Tp front towards the BASSEE canal between BETHUNE and BASSEE. 1Tp, 2Tp and 4Tp were used and 4Tp found a gap and advanced to CAMBRIAN and thence to the bridge at QUINCHY. It was held by the enemy and was in good condition, except for an abortive attempt at burning it. He shelled the enemy with Gun Tp thereby preventing them from damaging it any further. Later in the day the Skins crossed over to the North side of the canal.
1Tp and 2Tp were switched on to 4Tp route. 2Tp Lt Sutton recced the bridge 1 mile East of QUINCHY and found it blown. 1Tp Sgt Hall was unable to reach the bridge 2 miles East of QUINCHY because the enemy held BEUVRY. He was then ordered to NOEUX to cover the main road running South from BETHUNE which was in enemy hands.
Another day for the Sqn in the limelight with Lt Woodhouse having found a gap which became the Div centre line and also finding a bridge intact and holding it against the enemy. All Tps returned at last light to SHQ at NOYELLES.

B Sqn.
1Tp on left, 4Tp in centre and 2Tp on right were to recce NE from ST POL towards BETHUNE, but roads from ST POL, both to LILLE and BETHUNE were still held and all three Tps worked round to the East from ST POL via TERNAS and BAILLEUL where civilians reported strong enemy forces.
A Sqn on our right had next to no resistance and had got right on to NOYELLES and on to the BASSEE canal. We were ordered to go up behind and come up on their right. 1Tp, 2Tp and 4Tp were withdrawn and the whole Sqn went off NE across country to VERMELLES from where four patrols were sent out to recce 4 bridges.
1Tp on the left went to the bridge at LA BASSEE which was strongly held. Lt Young reported AUCHY as held. Later Lt Young found the church tower at HAISNES the best place from which to observe LA BASSEE. We could get no assistance from anyone to take the bridges so all we could do was report them as intact or otherwise.
2Tp and 4Tp were directed on two smaller bridges East of LA BASSEE towards the CANAL LA HAUTE DEULE. 4Tp reported their bridge NE of BILLY as blown but 2Tp which was 1 mile to the West was intact but held with some Infantry, 2 A/Tk guns and a tank at HAITAY. 4Tp was withdrawn to SHQ at 1600 hours, their job finished, but 2Tp who were still held up by enemy in DOUVAIN tried all afternoon to get actual observation on to the bridge.
5Tp on the right managed to get over the canal at WINGLES where we contacted 8th Armd Bde on our neighbouring Corps, and nearly reached DON where both the rail bridge and road bridge were intact but held. Lt Sivewright observed for the 75’s which had some effect. We were trying to prevent the enemy from blowing the bridges until our Infantry could come up, but no Infantry or tanks were anywhere near. 1Tp was withdrawn at 1900 hours and 2 & 5Tp at dusk.
3Tp at 1600 hours was sent on a special patrol to report on the bridge at HAUBOURDIN (SW of LILLE). Lt Chapman met Brigadier Prior Palmer (8th Armd Bde) who advised him to keep well to the East as enemy tanks were still NW of SECLIN. He did so and went into LILLE and out again to LOOS which was strongly held. Enemy tanks were only just on his South and he was for a time out of W/T so there was some anxiety but by 2100 hours Lt Chapman turned up in SECLIN where he met the Sqn Ldr and 4Tp. 4Tp had tried to recce the bridges at WAYRIN but had been unable to get through. We hacked all the way back to YENDIN LE VIEUL where after a long day with five patrols out we spent the night in a school.

D Sqn.
In reserve. 3Tp sent to HESDIN but did not get far before being recalled due to roads and rain. Left NUNCQ with RHQ and worked our way through MAZINGARBE where we spent the night.

C Sqn.
Moved at first light and joined RHQ. At midday 1Tp, 3Tp and 4Tp were sent out to protect the guns of the Div just to the NE and just SE of BETHUNE. This was done without incident and at 1330 hours they returned to SHQ. RHQ and Sqns moved up to RUGGE where we arrived about midnight. 1Tp & 4Tp got orders to leave first light next morning.

A Sqn.
At first light 1Tp, 3Tp and 5Tp left to cross the bridge at QUINCHY but found it being heavily held against the Skins and 131 Bde. Little advance was made and 1Tp and 3Tp sat back whilst 5Tp remained in observation awaiting a break through.
At 1530 hours the situation was very much the same and orders were received for the Sqn to come under the 22nd Armd Bde. We were to do advance guard along the axis CARVIN – SECLIN – OUDENARDE and GHENT. The Sqn advanced on a three Tp front with 5Tp on the CL and 1Tp & 3Tp working North of the axis in a NE direction. We advanced as far as OUDENARDE crossing the BELGIAN border at TOUFLEURS at 2200 hours.
Three Tps, 2Tp, 4Tp and 5Tp were ordered to hold road crossings during the night at OUDENARDE and NE to OYCKE and CRUYSHUATEN. There was nothing to report during the night and all Tps returned at first light. SHQ spent the night North of OUDENARDE.

B Sqn.
Sqn returned to RHQ at MARZINGARBE. At 1300 hours 1Tp on right and 3Tp on left were ordered to recce 2 routes East of LILLE into BELGIUM. They went off together with the remainder of the Sqn behind. They were suddenly halted when they had reached TOUFLEURS.
At about 1500 hours, when some of 22nd Armd Bde had already gone past, we were loosed again with 3Tp directed on COURTRAI, 1Tp on AUDENARDE up the R. ESCAUT, 5Tp as inside left and 4Tp inside right, 2Tp with SHQ.
3Tp reached COURTAI at 1900 hours and got the biggest reception ever from the civilians. 5Tp reported SWEVEGHEM clear before dark. 3Tp and 5Tp spent the night together 2 miles South of COURTAI. 1Tp were in the town protecting a nervous Inns of Court lorry. 4Tp worked their way through HEERTERT then SE to AVELGHEM.
All the 22nd Armd Bde were streaming up the road by the R. ESCAUT; the only opposition was well-wishing civilians hurling showers of flowers and fruit. SHQ was moving with 1st RTR well into the dark and at 2330 hours we halted for the night. The most noticeable thing of the day was the much greater welcome that we received in BELGIUM than we ever had in FRANCE.

D Sqn.
Tried to get across the bridge at QUINCHY which was held strongly so moved at speed through WANGLES, CARVIN to SECLIN from where 3Tp moved to NOYELLES, HOOPLIN being held by Infantry.
Remained in LILLE all afternoon till last light then as night fell motored after the Regt, spending the night 13 Km South of OUDENARDE at 0230 hours.

C Sqn.
1Tp and 4Tp left at first light to advance through AUDENARDE up the main road towards GHENT. 5th RTR were ahead of us at first but they turned NW at AUDENARDE while we went on NE. Just short of X roads 115670 1Tp encountered a Tp of A Sqn who were under 22nd Armd Bde and out of W/T touch with RHQ. Shortly A & C Sqn HQs met up 1 mile short of this X roads and A Sqn were withdrawn; but not before their Tp had been fired on by an 88mm and had reversed into a ditch. The crew were ok and we later recovered the car.
4Tp were out on the left directed on NAZERETH and when 1Tp were held up, 3Tp went out to the right and reached X roads 128608. From here 3Tp sent one car to recce and later defend the bridge at 135668 which was intact and later used as the Div axis. Lt Ballingal went to the area of the station 123668 from where he got good observation and conducted a shoot on enemy A/Tk guns and Infantry with 7Tp, and also a Tp of 5 RHA whose Bty commander was with SHQ. 5th RTR came up and engaged the A/Tk guns and Infantry.
4Tp had advanced through CRUYSHAUTEM and by 0850 hours was at 094682 where he got reports from civvies that there was one German General in the Chateau 125693. This was confirmed by another civvy with 1Tp and the chateau was shelled. 4Tp put out his Scout section to try and spot the enemy and they got a good view on the road leading East from NAZERETH to PECKE. Scout section reported one Mk IV Special and later on 2 lorries, a staff car and M/C going the same way.
By 1130 hours 4Tp was only 300 yards short of NAZERETH and could see a number of Germans and an AC in the village ahead. On trying to advance, his leading car (Cpl Woodhead), was fired on by A/Tk but withdrew ok. 4Tp also got a civvy report that the enemy were advancing South from DEYNZE which would bring them behind 4Tp. This was B Sqn area and they dealt with the situation.
1Tp, following 5th RTR, reached HUTSEPOT only 1 mile short of the outskirts of GHENT. The road ahead was blocked by fallen trees covered by A/Tk guns. 1Tp Ldr together with a civvy went round the position to the South to try and get a better look. They came under MG fire and the civvy was wounded but evacuated ok. His “ladyfriend” insisted on remaining with the Tp until they could get her back into GHENT – this was not achieved for 3 days.
4Tp meanwhile had advanced again to within 500 yards of the main road at 105745. On reaching this point the leading car came round a corner to see what he thought was an 88mm only 120 yards ahead. It was impossible to engage from that position so the Scout section went out with Brens and Stens and got fairly close but were themselves engaged. They killed one German and withdrew.
3Tp was withdrawn and 5Tp ordered out to recce bridges at 154654, 173718 and 186746. This was done ok. 5Tp had been reformed under Lt Esch with L/Sgt Jowett from HQ Tp. Since we had been short of 3 ACs, 2Tp had temporarily dismounted but they were also reformed with 1 reinforcement AC and a Honey tank which we had salvaged.
Tpr Bamford, the Sqn DR had a peculiar experience. His MC broke down and after repairing it he tried to return to B1 about 8 miles behind SHQ. Meanwhile the enemy had retaken this sector of the road and EYNE. In EYNE Tpr Bamford was captured by a small German patrol which was itself captured by some Belgian Patriots though many Germans were still close by. The Patriots had the MC and dressed Tpr Bamford in civilian clothes and he lived amongst the Germans for 2 days. On the first day he witnessed the return of the Germans into EYNE where the civilians were still celebrating our arrival. The Germans in Tiger tanks opened up on the civilians with MG killing or severely wounding between 60/70, including women and children. This was only one incident of many similar. The next day Tpr Bamford was recaptured by 3/4th CLY and had the satisfaction of seeing the enemy concerned, some 200 with 30/40 MET practically wiped out.
Last light all Tps returned to SHQ at 122685.

A Sqn.
The advance continued with 2Tp Lt Sutton in advance. On reaching the X roads at 1167 he was held up by A/Tk guns and Infantry and had one car ditched by A/Tk. C Sqn came up later and we reverted to command of the Regt and were withdrawn. We spent the night at BAELGEM.

B Sqn.
Unfortunately it turned out impossible for us to lead the advance and do left flank guard as 1, 3 & Tp were all well away on the left at COUTRAI, so C Sqn were sent through to take the lead and we were made responsible for the left flank.
4Tp reported WAEREGHEM clear then CROYSHAUTEM and then turned North and by 1000 hours he was in DEYNZE which was very good; he reported both bridges intact but that the place was stiff with Germans who were all streaming through there from both COUTRAI and THIELT to GHENT. By 1200 hours the place was too hot for one Tp and as there was no chance of getting any Infantry support they withdrew half a mile out of the town. Lt Flood remained there for the rest of the day during which time he captured a German Captain and his car and a further 93 PoW, killing one German.
Meantime 5Tp in the centre advanced to SWEVEGHEM and then to WAEREGHAM and then to PLAATSE without opposition and 3Tp moved up the COUTRAI – DEYNZE road capturing 9 PoW. Having replenished with petrol at PLAATSE with 5Tp, 3Tp moved on NE to MACHELEN and cut across East to NAZARETH which was strongly held by 200 Infantry and a 50mm A/Tk gun which shot at 3Tp.
Lt Chapman, after gunners had shelled the place, made a recce in his Dingo and found the Germans pulling out so pushed on North to ASTENE, turned East and found an 88mm and a further A/Tk gun 1 mile down the road. Lt Nicholson using the 38 set and the 75’s shelled the gun and killed 4 of its crew. The Tp was withdrawn at dusk.
1Tp had an equally successful day. In the morning they captured 20 HDT and 50 PoW and a Lt Paymaster, unfortunately without his cash box. Lt Young also picked up a Belgian artist who asked if he could assist and also a Belgian girl who had been dropped by plane two months ago at LIEGE as a spy. She proved very useful. 1Tp then went on to B1 for a rest for the afternoon with 5Tp.
At 1700 hours Lt Young rang up from B1 asking permission to collect some enemy reported at WAEREGHEM; between them 1Tp and 5Tp collected 12 PoW and destroyed 4 lorries and 5Tp went on and destroyed another lorry. SHQ and 2Tp had moved to NAZERETH where the Sqn concentrated for the night. Total bag – 6 killed, 2 officers & 155 ORs PoW, 5 lorries destroyed, 3 staff cars captured and 20 horse drawn carts captured.

D Sqn.
Moved to RHQ area at 1200 hours, 1Tp and 2Tp despatched. 1Tp main road to WETTERIN, 2Tp via SOCHPEN, all no movement seen. Bridge at WETTERIN intact with only superficial damage. All crossed, 2Tp reached 347826 where there was an A/Tk gun and MG. This was stonked by 7Tp.
3Tp reached ZELE – no movement seen. Night spent at CALKEN. 5th DG’s operating towards GHENT from the East. Maquis organised for local night patrols.

This was an exiting day with GHENT still held be the enemy, and large numbers of enemy Infantry trying to walk East to avoid being encircled.
In the morning B Sqn were ordered to recce the road from DEYNZE to GHENT but found the bridge at 093769 held by an A/Tk gun and 2 ACs. These were promptly engaged by the 75mm Tp and a direct hit was claimed on the 88mm. This Tp was directed on DEYNZE itself. An enemy HDT column was captured with 93 PoW. An ambush was then formed on the North bridge on the main THIELT – GHENT road and 2 staff cars were accounted for.Meanwhile large numbers of enemy Infantry were trying to infiltrate East and one such column was reported to be coming NE from COUTRAI to DEYNZE and this patrol was sent to meet them. Unfortunately whilst chasing some HDT across the bridge at PONTHOEK they were engaged by an 88mm and 2 cars were knocked out.
B Sqn also sent a patrol to look at CRUYSHAUTEM which was reported as now occupied by the enemy. Here some stiff fighting took place and contact was made with 4th Armd Bde who were working on the left.
D Sqn pushed out a Tp to TERMONDE where contact was made with 61 Recce Regt (%0 Div) who were our right hand neighbours. Another Tp went North to LOCKERIN and reported all bridges intact.
The A/Tk gun at 347826 was again engaged by our gun Tp and this time seen off. During the day D Sqn captured a staff car with a full Colonel in the back and inflicted a number of casualties in a spirited action with 30 Infantry at last light.
C Sqn sent one patrol in the morning up the main road to GHENT to the area of the road block and found only a Spandau there which they accounted for. They then went towards the next main road at 145764. By 1430 hours it was obvious that there was a serious threat from enemy Infantry movement towards the East and 4th Armd Bde were in no position to stop them. It was decided to mine the bridges in DEYNZE and between DEYNZE and GHENT. One Tp of C Sqn was sent to protect the RE’s who were going to fix the bridges in DEYNZE. On the way they encountered a column of HDT which had crossed the canal by the railway bridge at 011729. This column was engaged and a Gunner officer afterwards reported that he saw 30 Germans killed and wounded.
The RE’s were then contacted and a Scout sect was sent across the DEYNZE bridge as an ‘alarm bell’ while the RE’s worked on the bridge. Three German DR’s who approached the bridge were killed. Once the order was given to blow the bridge the Scout sect withdrew but unfortunately the charge was not sufficient to blow the northern bridge but the second bridge went up OK. The bridges at 150780 and 164784 were found already blown so another Tp was sent to protect the RE’s while they blew the rail bridge at 011729.

C Sqn.
5Tp went up the main road towards GHENT as far as 176764 the area of the road block which they had been told by civvies was clear. It was, except for 3 Germans with Spandau – who were captured. 3Tp meantime was directed on X roads 105745 which he reached by 0900 hours and contacted B Sqn after which he was withdrawn.
An enemy 88mm on tow with 20 Germans and Spandaus was wandering about SHQ area; first of all to our West then only 500 yards to the North but just out of sight and finally 1 mile to the West after which it went away to the NE. Several patrols went out to contact it following regular civvy reports but were all just too late.
At 0940 hours 5Tp was directed North towards the next main road at 145764. He passed a brand new abandoned flying bomb base on the way and reached main road at 1125 hours. He then went West towards B Sqn and took 1 wounded PoW.
At 1430 hours the enemy were once more infiltrating into the area from the West. It was decided to blow the bridges on the canal in DEYNZE and between DEYNZE and GHENT. 5Tp Ldr returned in the Dingo to contact RE’s at 089685 while 3Tp was directed SW down the main road from DEYNZE, 1Tp due South down the secondary road and 4Tp South from X roads 068698. 3Tp after going 3 miles was called back to escort and protect some RE’s while they blew the bridges in DEYNZE. On the way back they observed a column of HDT about 1 mile to his West – the carts having crossed the canal over the rail bridge at 011729. Lt Ballingal waited for them to come close and then opened up with MG. The result was complete chaos and though 3Tp could not wait to count the results a Gunner officer in the area said he saw 30 Germans fall and not rise again. The column was completely disorganised and scattered. 3Tp then contacted the RE’s who prepared to demolish the bridges.
SHQ had meantime observed a number of Germans approaching their position at 089685 from the West. It was during a conference with the CO and OC B Sqn. There was a certain amount of MG fire and soon 2 or 3 PoW were taken by a Scout section of B Sqn about 100 yards away. One of these was a German Sgt-Major who said if we would let him go back to his comrades he would bring in 80 more – which after a short delay he duly did.
5Tp took his RE’s to the bridges at 160780 and 164784 – both of which were already blown so he was sent to the rail bridge at 011730 which was known to be in use. 1Tp went to 052678 where he encountered 3 German lorries – the first he brewed up with 2pdr and the other 2 he captured, but the crews baled out. One German was killed and 7 captured.
4Tp went to 072659 where he took 2 PoW and engaged 16 Germans but could not observe the result.
3Tp meantime in DEYNZE had placed his Scout section across the bridge to give warning of any enemy approaching, while the RE’s were working on the bridge. A party of 3 German DRs and one staff car passed the Scout section and nearly reached the bridge. They were met by a burst of Besa from 3Tp which killed the DRs and damaged the staff car. The Scout section then withdrew and the bridge was blown. Unfortunately the blow was not complete as the concrete was reinforced but the second bridge was destroyed completely. 5Tp also fixed up their bridge and the whole Sqn finally withdrew South and East to GAVERE after midnight. L/Sgt Nash of 7Tp went on a foot recce and took 8 PoW.

A Sqn.
Remained in same position doing maintenance. Two Tps were sent out to investigate reports of enemy movement SE of GHENT. 1Tp and 2Tp were used and advanced towards GHENT from the SE but the report was unfounded and they were recalled.

B Sqn.
At first only two patrols were ordered out – 2Tp on right to main road to GHENT from DEYNZE. 2Tp were directed to report on the bridge at 093769. On approaching it Lt Burridge reported one 88mm and 2 ACs with 20mm guns and one lorry. He shelled them very accurately as an OP for Sgt Matheson’s 75mm guns, knocking out the 88mm with a direct hit and brewed up a lorry and drove away the 2 ACs. The bridge had been badly burnt but the civilians got to work to repair it and had almost finished when we were told the policy was to blow the bridges and the RE’s were sent to destroy it. The bridge was blown at 1930 hours. During this time 2Tp collected 50 PoW.
5Tp was on the left directed on DEYNZE. Within 1 mile of the Sqn leaguer area Lt Sivewright ran into 21 horse drawn carts which were captured together with 3 lorries which were brewed up and 93 PoW. 4Tp and Cpl Hornsby were sent out to take over what the Maquis and civilians left whilst 5Tp pushed on up the road capturing 2 PoW, two 15cwt trucks and 1 M/C. Lt Sivewright then went on up the road where he formed an ambush by the northern bridge on the main road THIELT – GHENT. The first German vehicle was a staff car, 2 of the occupants were killed, 3 were taken PoW and 2 RASC men who had been captured the previous night were recaptured. Shortly another staff car came along and the driver was killed.
At 1500 hours Lt Sivewright was told that a column of 500 Germans was coming NE from COUTRAI to DEYNZE. He was sent to contact the head and 1 mile SW of DEYNZE he contacted a 20mm SP gun on a half track which he destroyed killing the crew of 4 and capturing 4 PoW and a Red Cross Fiat. On reaching PLAATSE he captured a German Cpl who said that there were many Germans up the road NW who wanted to surrender and at that moment Lt Sivewright saw 2 horse drawn vehicles (HDV) going up the road to PONTHOEK. Sgt Orchard in front went streaking after them for a mile until they crossed the bridge at PONTHOEK; suddenly Sgt Orchard saw an 88mm 300 yards away which was unlimbering; he shot it up with 2pdr and Besa as did Lt Sivewright but sad to say the 88mm hit his car twice and brewed it up; Lt Sivewright managed to get his crew out into a cottage 50 yards away in time.
Meanwhile 3Tp had been sent out to CROYSHAUTEM reported as just occupied and after some street fighting captured 40 PoW and killed 4; after an hour the 3rd CLY arrived and posted a Tp of tanks up each road going out of the place and they received a surprisingly hot reception from the Germans, losing 2 tanks. 3Tp then went up the road NW to PLAATSE where he saw 5Tp streaming off after the 2 HDV. 4Tp were also out at DEYNZE and backing up 5Tp SW of there. Lt Flood remained by the level crossing SW of DEYNZE and watched the bridge at 011729.
1Tp, to complete the pack of all five Tps working, was out in the centre going North of CROYSHAUTEM for 3 kilos where he met C Sqn Tp firing at snipers and then went NW to MACHELAN railway station where he remained and acted as a link.
To return to 3Tp and 5Tp. Sgt Orchard must have been killed instantly. Tpr Norton was found in a nearby cottage and would have bled to death if he had not been found by us, as the Germans had neglected to attend to him. He was given a blood transfusion by Sgt McGuire in DEYNZE by a doctor.
We all went to area East of R ESCAUT to GAVERE where we spent the night. total bag: 20 killed, 193 PoW, one 88mm KO’d, 20mm on half track brewed, 7 lorries brewed, 3 staff cars brewed. Captured: 1 MC, 4 staff cars, two 15cwt and 25 HDV.
Except for Sgt Orchard and Tpr Norton’s disasters it was a great day for B Sqn.

D Sqn.
At first light 4Tp went to TERMONDE via ZELE and contact 50th Div Recce. 1Tp found the A/Tk gun again at 347826 and moved it with 7Tp. 5Tp went into LOCKERIN via ZELE, all bridges OK.
1Tp moved to 348863, 5Tp to 397859. 1Tp captured a staff car and 3 officers, one a full Colonel. 5Tp had a small battle at last light with 20 enemy Infantry.
Great help was given by the Maquis under Mr Van Geert of DONK and Mr Hoste, commander of Section 20. Most accurate and useful report at CALKEN

SUMMARY.
The period 1 – 7th had been an eventful one. We had advanced from the SEINE to the SOMME and crossed into Belgium. The Regt had taken many PoW and accounted for a considerable amount of enemy equipment.
The Regtl Bag for this period was :-

C Sqn	killed	30 plus
	PoW	110
	Destroyed	4 lorries, 3 MCs and many HDT (Horse Drawn Transport)
A Sqn	PoW	200
	Captured	1 staff car
B Sqn	Killed	26 plus
	PoW	586
	Destroyed	14 lorries, 4 staff cars, one 88mm, one 20mm
	Captured	7 staff cars, 45 HDT
D Sqn	Killed	20 plus
	PoW	398
	Captured	2 staff cars, 2 lorries
	Destroyed	many HDT

C Sqn.
At first light 2Tp left for X roads at 115670 then to turn NE towards GHENT but found that the enemy had advanced during the night to the bridge just West of CAVERE where he had been stopped. Gradually the enemy were pushed back and by 1055 hours 2Tp were on the rail crossing at 120682.
3Tp was sent to recce the canal ESCAUT between CAVERE and GHENT to see if any of the bridges were being held. 3Tp found that all bridges were blown or inadequate for any transport and civvies said no Germans had crossed. At 1945 hours 2Tp took 7 PoW otherwise no incidents and the Sqn went into reserve.
This was virtually the end of our advance into BELGIUM. Our role had been chiefly left flank guard – the flank which was the least disorganised and an area which had not previously been covered and in which one could not expect much support. The enemy on the whole was not entirely disorganised and some units were in a position to give a lot of trouble. From 1 – 7th Sep we took 110 PoW including 7 officers and killed 34 and probably more. We also destroyed 4 lorries, 3 MCs and some carts.

A Sqn.Still at BAELGEM carrying out maintenance. 4Tp was ordered out to recce the bridges on the R. ESCAUT between MELLE and TERMONDE. There was found to be 2 ferries of little use to the enemy and one bridge which was blown other than the bridge at WETTEREN which was in our hands.

B Sqn.Lt Burridge went over the bridge at GAYERE and past the station and then went 2 miles down the main AUDENARDE road where he organised an ambush. During the day he managed to collect 18 PoW and wounded 2 Germans. We were holding a bridgehead over the river.
4Tp went 2 miles up the road to DEYNZE where Lt Flood halted all day as a stop; he collected 4 PoW and reported on explosions in the woods at LOZER after our gunners had shelled them.

D Sqn.
3Tp to 348863, 2Tp to 397859 via ZELE, 4Tp to HERENDE. Quiet day. 2Tp brewed up a 20mm and killed 3 enemy. The Colonel came and explained that a big battle was in progress at DEYNZE, so nothing was moving to our area for a bit. Night at CALKEN.

A Sqn.
Sqn moved out to a position West of DOKEREN and three Tps were ordered to recce road junctions at WACHTBEKE, MOERBEKE and KLIEN SINAY.
1Tp went to 292922 and found the bridge blown. He was then ordered to bridge at 264904 and found it blown also and covered by 2 A/Tk guns. No further advance was made and he stayed in observation.
2Tp advanced to 352904 and reported bridge at 354908 as blown and covered by 2 A/Tk guns and 100 Infantry. He used the Gun Tp on this position but no results were observed.
3Tp advanced to 392920 and reported bridges at 392928 blown with a gap of 12 feet. He was then ordered to bridge at 371878 and found it ok. He took 7 PoW during the day. All Tps were called in at last light to SHQ.

B Sqn.
We moved at 1000 hours to DONCK, 5 miles out of LOCKEROU; it was a lovely place with a lake and pubs galore for the soldiers.

D Sqn.
Three A/Tk guns had been reported by the Maquis on the main road at 421877 and 3 more at 443889. 1Tp to HAMME and then North, reached 493885 but was held up by A/Tk gun and 4 MGs at 492895. HAMME bridge was intact.
5Tp was sent North to cut in on the main road at HEESDONK. A Mk VI tank moved South towards WAESMUNSTER and 2Tp DSC was put out of action, a tyre destroyed, and LCpl Williams Wynn made his escape by a bicycle followed by the tank and several shells.
The tank turned into WAESMUNSTER and advanced to LOCKERIN at a fair speed. Sgt Lyon MM took it on at 400 yards with 2pdr squeeze without result and withdrew over the bridge at 387849. The tank with its Infantry support walking on each flank turned round at the bridge and went back to ST NICHOLAS on the main road.
By evening 5Tp who were sent to relieve 2Tp reached WAESMUNSTER and reported no movement seen. 3Tp went to the South side of the bridge to report any movements there and 1Tp was withdrawn to HAMME X roads. Spent the night with RHQ at DONCK. The Greys arrived and spent the night in LOCKERIN.

A Sqn.
4th Armd Bde were to attack ST NICHOLAS from the South and the Sqn was ordered to provide patrols to the North. 4Tp advanced towards STEKENE and was held up by 3 A/Tk guns and Infantry in area 4295. The Gun Tp was used but 4Tp was unable to advance any further.
5Tp advanced to KEMSEKE and shot up a staff car killing 2 German officers.
2Tp advanced through ST NICHOLAS then NE to NIEUWERKEN WAES. He reported 3 tanks, guns and Infantry holding the town and was engaged by a Mk IV Special. He was forced to bale out and Lt Sutton, Sgt Fitzpatrick, Tpr Kirkham, Tpr Harris and Tpr Fowler were all taken prisoner. The White Scout car was used by the Germans to take them away and the DAC and DSC were later recovered.
During the afternoon 5 enemy troop carriers were reported moving West from NIEUWERKEN WAES and 5Tp were ordered to gain contact. He was unable to do so as the carriers split up and returned to NIEUWERKEN WAES.
1Tp was ordered to a position West of ST PAUL where he found the place held by 3 A/Tk guns which had moved in from the North during the day. The enemy were also reported in square 4792 thus cutting off Sgt Hall’s escape route to the South. He appreciated the situation and decided to force his way through ST PAUL. He was successful in this by recceing the A/Tk gun positions and bye-passing them in the village itself. On the West side however he came under fire from them and from HE but suffered no casualties.
During the day 2 PoW were captured. All Tps returned at last light to SHQ at a position West of ST NICHOLAS. It was seen after the day’s probing that the enemy was holding a line South of the Dutch border to enable the bulk of his army to withdraw from the Channel ports and flying bomb sites. They were withdrawing through HOLLAND and being ferried across the R. SCHELDT and it was appreciated that the line would be held for some time.

B Sqn.
We hoped for a morning on maintenance but had to move at 1230 hours to a position 2 miles South of ST NICHOLAS. A civilian report in the evening of 200 Infantry in the woods 1000 yards North of us entailed a composite patrol of it. Lt Gibson, who had just joined the Sqn, was attached to 3Tp as Sgt McGuire’s gunner and Sgt Gardiner who went and found this report was nonsense.

D Sqn.
At first light 4Tp moved to WASMUNSTER and 1Tp to HAMME. A battle ensued NE of ST NICHOLAS by which time 3Tp, who had gone in at first light and found it clear, had reached MEISELE and was ordered to proceed North to CALLOO.
1Tp found the sides of the road mined the last 2 miles to the ANTWERP TUNNEL. The tunnel was full of mud and impassable except on foot. The foot tunnel had the ventilation shaft blown and was flooded. A dummy 88mm AA site of 6 guns was found round the tunnel. Moved back to 509880 until evening.

A Sqn.
Three patrols went out to the same positions as the previous day and were able to advance a little further north.
3Tp advanced to HETKALF and reported 3A/Tk guns, 200 Infantry in CLINGE. He engaged a staff car and brewed it up also 20 Infantry of which he killed 6 and took 2 PoW.
4Tp advanced to GROENENDY and reported Infantry and 1 A/Tk gun at 465016, also HDT. He used the Gun Tp on this position and killed 10 Germans.
5Tp advanced to 495986 and reported SALIETEM to be held by Infantry.
All Tps stayed on this line because as previously stated the enemy were holding their line South of the Dutch border.

B Sqn.
1, 2 and 3Tps were out. 1Tp went via ST NICHOLAS to BEVERN WAAS and finished up ½ mile North of the latter place where Lt Young was unable to get any further North because of floods. He spent the day there and had some good shooting with the 75mm against 20mm in CALLOO. 2Tp were on the right and went to the road from KETTERMUIT NE via HAESDONCK to MELSELE in front of the Greys who were to take CALLOO. Civilians reported CALLOO strongly held and all Tps had conflicting reports from civilians, obviously given out by the Germans with this intention.
3Tp were on the left, directed on VACRENE where he was told that VERREBROEK was held; Lt Chapman appreciated that the long straight road direct to VERREBROEK would be most unhealthy so he edged his was East via ZILLEBEKE and up North to VLIEGENSTAL which he turned into a little base from where he operated all day. Lt Chapman using the 75’s in the morning shifted an 88mm from the road and put 20 enemy Infantry to flight.
In the evening Lt Chapman in order to confirm conflicting reports from the locals concerning VERREBROEK, advanced up the road and got heavily shelled halfway to HET FORT by 20mm’s on both sides and MGs – he got out alright and then warmed up the area with the 75’s.

D Sqn.
In reserve. Much maintenance to be done. Moved after lunch to CHATEAU TERSAXEN at BEVEREN where everyone was well housed for a rainy night.

C Sqn.
Sqn had moved up the previous evening to ST NICHOLAS area just West on ANTWERP. Three patrols went out to the NW to watch a line facing North looking into HOLLAND against the enemy flank guard which was guarding the crossing over the R. SCHELDE. 1Tp, 2Tp and 5Tp went out. Numerous civvy reports of large numbers of enemy tanks and Infantry proved rather inaccurate and alarmist.
In the afternoon friends on our left (Royals) were forced to withdraw rather suddenly which left a considerable gap in the line until 1Tp and 2Tp withdrew to conform. Later all returned. 2Tp was approached by 5 Germans but the cover was too thick to get a good shot at them. They withdrew a bit later. All Tps returned for the night.

A Sqn.
In Regt reserve at RUISTRAAT. Capt JA Friend rejoined the Sqn as 2i/c and Lt Williamson took over 2Tp.

B Sqn.
Twp Tps were out – 4Tp to VLIEGENSTAL and 1Tp to VRACENE. 1Tp had a clear run and remained in reserve at ZILLEBEKE for the morning. 4Tp found an MG nest which seemed to vanish when we stonked a hamlet half way up the road to HET FORT. VERREBROEK and HET FORT were both strongly held and progress was impossible. How much of the enemy were escaping North of the CALLOO – VERREBROEK flank guard it was hard to say.
In the afternoon a gunner OP was sent to Lt Flood and in order to get observation on to VERREBROEK, Lt Flood went forward in his Dingo with 3 of his army of Maquis up to the hamlet which appeared to be clear; so he parked his Dingo behind a house and with the Maquis walked up the road. He had not gone 50 yards when heavy fire from behind him was opened up on his Dingo by 2 Breda MGs and a 20mm sited in the flood water on the West of the road. These guns then traversed left firing just over his head but luckily there was a slight slope which screened him. Then an MG opened up on him and he decided to take a header into the water; but the bullets followed him and he returned to the bank to slip back and cross the road to his Dingo, under cover of smoke from a burning haystack just by his Dingo. This was a lucky escape.
For the remainder of the day Lt Nicholson who was with 4Tp, OP’d for the 4th RHA and at one time had the whole Regt firing on to VERREBR OEK. At midday 5Tp relieved 1Tp and remained as a stop in VACRENE till dusk in spite of continual civilian reports of Tiger tanks and Infantry being there too. Sqn spent the night in the area of a chateau.

D Sqn.
In rest at the chateau. Maintenance and cleaning of cars.

C Sqn.
3Tp, 4Tp and 5Tp went out with 3Tp on the left who went into KEMSEKE where he was later joined by friends. 5Tp was in the centre and 4Tp on the right. 3Tp found a wounded PoW in a house and evacuated him. 5Tp was approached by a party of 5 men but they kept well under cover and could not be engaged.
At 1620 hours Tp saw a German cross the road carrying a portable W/T set. Shortly after he captured a German SSM from 7th Pz Grenadiers riding a bicycle. Nothing further to report and at last light we withdrew, the Poles taking over.

B Sqn.
2Tp out to VRACINE and 3Tp out to VLIEGENSTAL continuing the duties as stops. An 88mm was engaged by 3Tp using 7Tp and it was forced to move back. A number of hidden Infantry moved back also. Polish forces took over from us in the evening and we returned to Chateau.

D Sqn.
Due to the proximity of some mythical tanks we had to move to a position 2 miles North of HAMME where maintenance was continued.

A Sqn.
Moved as a Regt to the BRUSSELS area.

B Sqn.
Regt moved to area just South of MALINES. No Tps out. Good billets in chateau.

D Sqn.
Moved at 1015 hours as a Regt to MALINES area. Area by the Lido and very pleasant. Arrived at 1530 hours maintenance until 1800 hours.

A Sqn.
In reserve carrying out much needed checking and maintenance. Organised parties allowed to go into BRUSSELS for recreational purposes. In rest until 18th Sep 44.

D Sqn.
Sgt Luke fell ill with tonsillitis and was evacuated. Work until 1300 hours. 1 lorry with 30 men to MALINES from 1400 hours to 2045 hours and one the same to BRUSSELS.

D Sqn.
At 6 hours notice to move but managed to get the leave parties to Malines and Brussels in again. Sgt Luke returned having escaped complete evacuation.

A Sqn.
At first light the Sqn moved to take a position on the ALBERT canal from the 8th Hussars. The stretch on the canal was from the East of ANTWERP for a distance 5 miles East entailing a four Tp front.
1Tp was ordered to Stadium, 2Tp to X roads at 735980 and 3Tp to road junction at WYNEGHEM. 4Tp was ordered to road junction at 772958 and SHQ to Fort No. 1 at ANTWERP. In these positions the canal was covered with the exception of a few blind spots which were, shortly after arrival, covered by the Scout sections.
The Tps remained in position during the day and reported spasmodic sniping and odd Infantry North of the canal.
At 1500 hours the Canadians took over our positions and we were ordered to another stretch of the canal between VIERSEL and GROBBENDONCK, which required only three Tps to cover it. When 3Tp were being relieved by the Canadians at WYNEGHEM, Tpr Green of the Scout section was shot by a sniper and killed instantly. His body was recovered by the Tp and later buried in our new position.
1Tp was ordered to VIERSEL. 2Tp was ordered to DE BIST and 3Tp to 883900. At last light all Tps were withdrawn ½ mile and became listening posts because the enemy had made a practice of infiltrating across the canal during the night. However nothing was seen or heard during the night. At this point it must be stated that all bridges across the canal had been blown.

D Sqn.
Moved at first light to take over from 8th Hussars on the ALBERT canal between ANTWERP and HERENTHALS.
During the day 1Tp saw 30 Infantry and 2 spandaus across the canal which were heavily stonked 3 times by 7Tp, 2 rounds falling in slit trenches. One mortar was firing from 828937 and 1 suspected SP. These were all stonked by 7Tp.
1Tp and 3Tp were relieved by A Sqn but 3Tp got a car stuck and had to stay out. 4Tp was relieved by the Canadians in the evening and spent the night at 795941. 1Tp came back to SHQ and 3Tp stayed the night with A Sqn.

A Sqn.
4Tp and 5Tp relieved 1 & 2Tp and 3Tp remained out. All Tps remained out during the day and night and reported no enemy activity whatsoever.

B Sqn.
Still at chateau but 1Tp were sent out on a liaison task with Corps HQ.

D Sqn.
No movement seen till 1500 hours when 1Tp shot 3 Germans at 838932 and heavily stonked the area with 7Tp and the Bofors Tp. A mortar at 828938 was also stropped up after firing into 1Tp position. This later fired from 822948 into the bridge area 838932 but landed among the enemy. Battling ensued until 1900 hours. 7Tp fired 238 rounds and the Bofors 450 rounds. Canadian patrols were in our area all night and 8th Recce took over at first light.

A Sqn.
Handed over the positions to the Canadians and 22nd Armd Bde. All Tps returned to SHQ at HOOGE HEIDE.

B Sqn.
Regt moved to HERENTHOUT. Sqn still in rest. Played football against civilian side.

D Sqn.
Handed over to 8th Recce to Canadian Div completed by 0900 hours. Moved at 1430 hours to 965865 preparatory to taking over from 2nd RB.

C Sqn.
Sqn role was to watch the banks of the ALBERT canal from the South and to prevent enemy patrols from penetrating South between HERENTHALS on the right and X roads 9-79-3. 1Tp was on the right at WOLFSTEE with a foot patrol on the railway line at 942897 under L/Sgt Howard. This patrol was very close to the enemy who were in HERENTHALS and was sniped and mortared frequently during the day but without result.
2Tp was on the railway line at 942897 and 4Tp also on the line at 922795. They inter-visible along the line but woods obscured vision on either side. 3Tp was on the X roads at 908902.
At 0750 hours 3Tp saw 3 men at 910913 and at 1115 hours saw 1 man at 920906. Two enemy 75’s were in action to the North of the railway. 7Tp stonked the area and they did not fire anymore.
1634 hours 3Tp reported some Belgian Resistance had encountered 5 Germans at 921906, they shot 1 and the rest ran away.
1800 hours a number of German Infantry approached 2Tp position. Shots were exchanged but in the close country results could not be observed.
Tps stayed out for the night which was quiet except for some MG fire and verey lights by some ‘locals’ at 0200 hours which caused a slight scare.

A Sqn.
Took over the same stretch of canal from 22nd Armd Bde using 1, 2 and 3Tp. Tps remained out day and night. no enemy reported.
D Sqn.
Took over from RB’s. 2Tp to 98883 where he sat on a big mound of earth from the canal and had a very good position of observation while his Scouts watched the lock gates. 3Tp to another big mound at 981887 and 5Tp with 2 Scout sections to 963887.
C Sqn were on our left and Queens on our right. 7Tp was used considerably and with success, scoring a brew at 955900.
Sniping started in the afternoon at 3Tp and generally over 5Tp area. 5Tp with 24 Resistance men patrolled in front for the night. A number of Germans were seen by the FFI, four approached 5Tp with verey lights but were fired on and went away.

C Sqn.
Same Tps in place. At 0915 hours 2 enemy 75’s opened up. 1Tp & 2Tp each got bearings and 7Tp stonked the area which stopped them.
1205 hours 2 guns opened up, cross bearing gave the area which 7Tp stonked again. By 1545 hours Sqn was relieved by 58 Recce Btn.

A Sqn.
Handed over to 49 Recce Regt and called in all Tps at 1600 hours.

B Sqn.
Still resting. Games in afternoon. The biggest blow the Sqn has suffered so far was when Major Reid Scott MC broke his ankle and was evacuated to the UK. He was greatly upset at leaving and the Sqn will miss him very much.

D Sqn.
At 0550 hours 3Tp was mortared without effect. Infiltration during the night and 2 spandaus were firing from area 955890 but could not be found. 7Tp KO’d a spandau at 983893. Four 75mm tried to counter battery 7Tp but were hopelessly out, the shells landing in NORDERWYCK village.
Handed over to 49th Div Recce at 1600 hours and spent the night in WEIKEVOST.

C Sqn.
Reports were received that the enemy had pulled out from GHEEL bridge and that RE’s had repaired the bridge sufficiently for us to cross. That was at 1700 hours and 3 patrols were sent on the far side. Actually when we arrived they had not started the bridge but were preparing to put a scissors bridge over the lock 300 yards East. A ditch had to be filled in and a house demolished before the scissors could reach the selected spot.
This spot was found to bear the sign of MINEN but empty holes led us to believe it had been cleared. Three of our scout section and some RE’s crossed the canal by pontoon and started to clear the roads on the far side of mines and debris, also some German dead.
By 1845 hours all was set for the first car to cross over the scissors and a crowd of spectators gathered round to watch. At 1846 hours the car (Lt Ballingal) went over a Teller, luckily the far wheel which was never seen again - the car was almost a total write off and a bottle of whiskey and a bottle of champagne inside it were total write offs. The operator had slight scratches on his leg. The car was dragged out of the way and the area searched revealing one more mine. It was decided to pack up for the night as it was getting dark so we remained in observation.

A Sqn.
Moved with the Regt to GREES.

B Sqn.
Capt J Lovett took over the Sqn temp and Lt Burridge took over 2i/c. Lt R Preston, an officer of the Sherwood Foresters joined the Sqn under Lt Sivewright. Sgt McGuire took over 2Tp and Sgt Purkiss became Tp Sgt of 3Tp. Cpl Evans rejoined from hospital and took over the Dingo in 3Tp. 1Tp still away at Corps HQ.
Regt moved to GREES, a miserable area in the woods South of MOLL.

D Sqn.
Moved with the Regt to area of concentration (in the rain) South of MOLL. Two new officers joined the Sqn, Lt Alton and Lt Gurteen both from the Sherwood Foresters. The former to 3Tp and the latter to 5Tp under instruction.

C Sqn.
3Tp stayed out during the morning; picked up 6 Yanks whose glider had become separated from its towing machine during the air operations two days previously, also 4 German PoW and 1 Russian.

A Sqn.
Lt Newnham joined the Sqn. Still at GREES.

B Sqn.
3, 4 & %Tps were out on patrol watching the ALBERT canal. All bridges had been blown and it was a nothing to report day. Bag – 2 PoW brought in.

D Sqn.
Spent the day at the same place. Rained most of the day and night.

C Sqn.
5Tp remained out during the night and at 0630 hours 2Tp left to relieve him and at 0645 hours both were withdrawn.

A Sqn.
Moved with the Regt in stages to SLABROEK.

B Sqn.
Regt moved to STEENSEL and had orders to move at first light on 26th to patrol area North of VEGHEL.

D Sqn.
Moved at 0800 hours to South of EINDHOVEN. Rained all day.

B Sqn.
Early move cancelled but Regt moved at 1100 hours. Sqn leaguered SE of ST OEDENRODE and 4Tp and 5Tp were sent to VEGHEL to recce roads going NW. 5Tp holding canal bank and 4Tp along parallel to main road. Both contacted Americans in area of railway bridge but neither could move due to enemy holding a line about 800 yards away up these roads.
5Tp were heavily shelled and 4Tp reported an enemy attack at last light. The attack was held. A picture was built up of the opposition in the area and although the Tps made no progress their reporting was of value.

D Sqn.
Moved at 1200 hours to 1 mile East of OEDENRODE. 1Tp through VEGHEL up the main road to UDEN where he contacted Grenadier Guards – then to NISTLERODE where he met more of them and spent the night – no movement seen.
4Tp to VEGHEL then North to DERP. Very bad road, all mud.
3Tp to VEGHEL to railway crossing 485387 where there was a US Airborne Div. Smartened up German Infantry at 467389.
3 & 4Tp returned to SHQ East of VEGHEL for the night.

B Sqn.
4Tp and 5Tp continued with their 2 patrols. 5Tp held all day by enemy in the woods. 4Tp moved up and got to DINTHER where they were supported eventually by 1st RTR and RB’s.
7Tp were used during the day on suspected enemy areas and as a diversion to fool the enemy who were about to be attacked from another direction.
Patrols were called in at 1600 hours and the Regt moved to MENZEL in the middle of the biggest rainstorm ever.

D Sqn.
At first light 1Tp moved SW to LOOSBROEK – no movement seen.
3Tp went to 510 thence to DERP, BEDAF and NISTLERODE – no movement seen.
4Tp North to VOLCHENBOSCH where his flywheel collapsed and 2Tp was sent to relieve him and push on to 1Tp at LOOSBROEK. From there 2Tp went South on to 442414 where he was shot at by an A/Tk gun at 438413. This he stonked with 5th RHA guns and 1st RTR moved up to clear DINTHER. All Tps called in at 1630 hours, moved to NISTLERODE with the Regt. Rained very hard.

B Sqn.
Sqn resting, maintenance and gun cleaning. A Sqn took over our patrols.

D Sqn.
In reserve.

A Sqn.
Patrol positions were very much similar to the previous day. 5Tp on the right advanced to LAGEWIJST and reported Infantry in area GROES which he engaged with K Bty resulting in one 88mm KO’d and 3 Germans killed. He then advanced to HOCGEWIJST and reported it clear. Thence to SOGGEL where he reported enemy Infantry in the area. He smartened these with small arms killing 6 Germans. He later handed over to the Guards and returned to SHQ at last light.
4Tp was centre and advanced to VINKEL and North to 422488 and reported 12 Infantry at 421497 with an A/Tk gun. They were smartened up by small arms fire and withdrew. He then advanced North of the road and reported a large gun at 413454 which he engaged. He later reported this as being abandoned. He then went on to 418503 and reported numerous Infantry in the area which he smartened in time. A 150mm gun firing from the West eventually got a bracket on the Tp position thus forcing them to withdraw South of the road.
3Tp was on the left and advanced to 400450 and engaged Infantry at 398456. He then advanced to CORSO and was held up by a road block of fallen trees, small arms and shelling. He remained in this position in observation. On returning to SHQ at last light he was fired on by two 50mm guns in area 408422 but came through unscathed.
Today was a good day. All Tps had very good practice with their guns and good results obtained.

B Sqn.
Still resting. All deficiencies taken and 406’s done.

D Sqn.
In reserve.

C Sqn.
1,3 and 4Tps went to PAPENDIJK, GROES and X roads 421497. On the way out 1Tp took a PoW at 439493 from 437 Infantry Btn who stated that his Coy was all split up and had been abandoned by its officers.
Sqn was placed under 22nd Armd Bde with the role of gaining contact with the enemy in the area of patrol positions. 1Tp got into his area in which he found a number of Germans; several of which he took PoW including 1 RSM and 1 SSM. 1Tp was later joined by 2 Tps of Skins who took further PoW in the area.
4Tp got to his position and moved West down the road till he met a road block of 6 felled trees at 415495.
During the afternoon a heavy mortar stonk came down on 1Tp. It wounded the driver trp Bucket, breaking his leg. Tpr Bucket had been with the Sqn since the outbreak of the war.
3Tp patrolled all round his area but could find no enemy. All Tps withdrew a short way for the night which was very wet.

A Sqn.
In reserve at KANTJE. Lt Brown and Richards left the Sqn.

B Sqn.
Orders to move at first light to OSS next day.

D Sqn.
Moved to VOLCHENBOSCH. 3Tp and 5Tp patrolled the roads between VEGHEL and DINTHER – no movement seen. The road was full of people, US Airborne patrols to 1000 yards outside VEGHEL and 1/5th Queens on the outskirts of DINTHER. A waste of time but gave others confidence presumably.

C Sqn.
Tp objectives for the day were right GEFFEN – centre SCHOTSCHEHEUVEL and left as far down the main road till contact at roadblock could be removed. 1Tp and 4Tp went to the roadblock early and started to work on it with a Scout section out in front, Cpl Golding. The Scout section took 2 PoW with a 3” mortar on a hand-cart from 2nd Infantry Ersatz Btn 212. 5Tp went out to relieve 1Tp and reached objective SCHOTSCHEHEUVEL, (“that fast place for skirt”).
At 1010 hours a mortar stonk came down on 5Tp. LCpl Powell and Tpr Thomas were wounded. Both 3Tp and 4Tp got bearings on the mortars and an OP with SHQ put down a heavy concentration on the area and quietened them. 3Tp reached GEFFEN and moved West as far as X roads 418512. The track from here was too narrow to the West but he recced South searching houses, and North as far as the railway line. Here he saw 2 Germans at close range and they were ‘sweetened’ with hand grenades.
At 1400 hours the Sqn was withdrawn to RHQ at OSS. OSS was to be held by the Regt for the night, and enemy patrols were considered possible though not probable. 2Tp and 5Tp were out at 475553 and 485546. Nothing to report.

A Sqn.
The Regt was responsible for the defence of OSS both by day and by night. The Sqn was given the northern commitment and Tps were despatched to OIJEN, MEGEN and HERPEN for day patrols, i.e. on the R. MAAS. Night patrols entailed blocking a X road North of OSS at 469557. No enemy were seen by day or night.

B Sqn.
3Tp patrolled from OSS in a westerly direction directed on S’HERTOGENBOSCH. 2Tp directed on HET WILD via LITH. The country was very open and 3Tp sat in a position of observation about 2 miles North of NULAND. Enemy Infantry were seen and engaged by 7Tp. 2Tp used 7Tp on the Fort NE of MAREN between the WAAS and WAAL rivers and suspected emplacement at HET WILD. Both patrols drew back to night positions on the North and West of OSS but the night was quiet.

D Sqn.
Moved to school in OSS. Rained. In reserve.

A Sqn.
Day patrols remained the same with the exception of the right at HERPEN which was withdrawn. Night patrols as for the previous day. No enemy seen.

B Sqn.
5Tp relieved 3Tp and 4Tp relieved 2Tp at first light. They carried out the same two patrols. 5Tp engaged Infantry at NULAND and 4Tp had a busy day at MAREN. They shelled the Fort and the lock towers and were then ambushed by German patrols. They withdrew just NW of MAREN.
5Tp engaged parties of Infantry all day and at last light reported 5 explosions in the NULAND area. Both Tps were withdrawn to their night position. 5Tp reported an explosion during the night, possibly the bridge which they had crossed over during the day, as D Sqn found it demolished on the morning of the 3rd. Sqn relieved by D Sqn. Men promised 24 hours rest.

D Sqn.
In reserve. Football match with C Sqn.

A Sqn. 3rd – 7th.
Position remained the same during the day and at night three patrols were used to cover roads to the North and East of OSS. SHQ during this period was established just North of OSS.

B Sqn.
Sqn resting; lectures on First Aid by the MO. 1Tp back with us. Lt Gibson took over Dingo in 3Tp, Cpl Evans took over second HSC in B1.D Sqn.1 Tp to MAREN, 4Tp to 432538. Much shelling in NULAND area seen by 4Tp. Enemy Infantry seen in Fort and lock gates by 1Tp also enemy Infantry seen at WILD. A quiet day.

B Sqn.
Resting, still at OSS. Orders to relieve C Sqn on the morning of the 5th Oct.

D Sqn.
5Tp to MAREN. Infantry and MGs seen near the fort and were stonked by 7Tp. The White sect were shot up at 40 yards range by 4 enemy who came up from WILD.
2Tp went to 432530. Saw only activity in the NULAND area. Heavily shelled by 3 guns and some mortars and had to move his Tp back 1000 yards, leaving White sect and DSC only.
The church spire in MAREN was shot off at 2100 hours.

B Sqn.
Relieved C Sqn under command 1/6th Queens. Major Lawson DSO MC, rejoined the Regt and took over command of B Sqn. 1, 2 and 3 Tps went out on static patrols. 3Tp had two Scout sections watching the river crossings by day and night. 1Tp were shot at by MG from area of LAAR and withdrew later to a night position near ZANDKANT.
2Tp were at KAMEREN and recced the crossing of the river and canal due South. They were shot at by spandaus but got safely back. They were with drawn at night.
4Tp with the two Scout sect were at night position watching the river. The night was noisy but no enemy came.

D Sqn.
3Tp right and 4Tp left. A very quiet day. No movement seen all round, except odd men digging at MAREN and shell fire at NULAND. 2Tp out on local protection at night on exits to OSS.

C Sqn.
LCpls Hayward, Jones, Dalloway and Tpr Smith, who had been captured when Lt Creaton was killed, returned to the Sqn after escaping. Lt Creaton was killed as supposed at the time. He was shot through the back of the head while accepting the surrender of another batch of Germans. After that there was considerable firing on both sides and the AC and Dingo between them destroyed 2 lorries and 1 staff car and at least 6 Germans killed and left on the ground. The AC was unfortunately jammed between 2 other vehicles on the road and could get neither forward or back. The Dingo reversed but there was insufficient room and it went into the ditch. When the AC had a bad stoppage, the crews were forced to surrender.
They marched with the Germans for 4 days, about 60 miles or so. On the 5th day the guards were somewhat relaxed in the early hours of the morning and they all made their escape into a nearby wood. No search was made and by night all Germans had left. They made their way to the nearest French village, which had not yet been reached by our own troops, and was not in fact reached for 4 days, during which time a very good time was had by all.

B Sqn.
Sqn remained under 1/6th Queens. 1, 3 and 4Tp were out in static positions South, West and NW of DINTHER. Enemy snipers were active especially in the area of LAAR where 1Tp successfully dealt with the situation. 1Tp were withdrawn to SHQ at last light and 3, 4 & 5 Tps remained out to watch the crossings South of DINTHER during the hours of darkness.

D Sqn.
2Tp to MAREN and found 30 SS there. Stopped at KESSEL. They went into a house at 352579 with MGs and were heavily stonked by 7Tp in the afternoon and they left at 1700 hours having burnt 30 houses and all the hayricks in the village.
1Tp took over A Sqn patrols and moved round MEGEN, no movement seen.

C Sqn.
The Sqn moved out at first light to take over the LITH area. 1Tp went to area 428541 with 2 Scout sect on the canal embankment just to the North. The position had a fine look out over the dead flat polder country, but nothing was seen all day.
2Tp went to KESSEL where he received a report of 10 Germans in the area and shortly afterwards he saw half a dozen of them at X roads 387583. He engaged them with MG and they disappeared into a watery bed where they at any rate got wet.
5Tp was sent to assist and went to the X roads from the East. Nothing could be seen of the enemy so he moved on to MAREN where the Tp Ldr, Lt Esch, met them suddenly walking round the side of a house. The house was, as far as possible, surrounded by the 2 ACs, 1 Dingo and 1 White SC of 5Tp and later another AC and White of 2Tp. The country was flat all round the house, but a thick orchard and deep ditches made it difficult to spot the enemy.
The Scout Sect under LCpl Leeming attacked the orchard with hand grenades; while the ACs perforated the house with 2pdrs. After a bit of this 1 PoW was taken by the Scout sect, but others were believed to have got away to the South down a deep ditch. This was shortly confirmed by L/Sgt Woodhead who suddenly saw a man in a ditch about 20 yards away, aiming a bazooka at him. Luckily he got in a burst with MG before he fired.
The hunt was then transferred to a large field of turnips surrounded by 3 ACs and the Scout sect did ‘beater’ and after a bit flushed a covey of Jerries – one of which was ‘winged’, the remainder packing up. They (5 in all) proved to be the 16 SS Coy and stated that their patrol had originally been 7 men, so two got away somewhere. They acquired 2 Pz Faust, 2 spandaus and 1 Tommy gun. The MGs we gave to the local Resistance movement who much appreciated them.
2Tp moved to the South end of MAREN and 5Tp remained at the northern end. A few mortar shells landed in MAREN in the evening but without effect. All Tps withdrew to LITH for the night and formed a screen around the village. Quiet night.

B Sqn.
3Tp was under fairly heavy artillery fire during the night. One AC was hit but no casualties. At 1500 hours all patrols were withdrawn and the Sqn moved complete into the Phillips Factory at OSS where Capt Lovett had found extremely satisfactory accommodation. The Colonel had decided that 1/6th Queens were using the Sqn in roles only suitable for Infantry and he needed the extra Sqn for the defence of OSS. At night time the Sqn provided two Tps for the perimeter defence of OSS. This was done by 2 and 5 Tps who returned at first light to the Sqn area.

D Sqn. 7th – 14th.
During this period patrols were at railway crossing 467537 and at 457538. Always no movement seen but soothed the civilians who concocted fantastic rumours.
At 2200 hours on the 10th, heavy stonking in the GEFFEN area followed by MG fire heralded some sort of attack. The Sqn stood to and two Tps were despatched to thicken up the area, but nothing happened. It transpired that two platoons of the 2nd RB’s, plus 5th RHA completely subdued and routed a Btn of Infantry, supposedly trying to blow up the church at GEFFEN.

C Sqn.
Thick fog until 1030 hours. 1Tp went to the same place as the previous day, 3Tp went to the South end of MAREN and 4Tp to the North end.
At 1230 hours, the Tp Ldr of 3Tp, Lt Ballingal, was watching over a bank and was surprised to see a German, or possibly two, appear only 5 yards away on the other side of the bank. Lt Ballingal quickly fired a burst of Sten and threw a grenade at him, as he disappeared over the other side – equally surprised. For a time, he could not be seen again until about 15 minutes later, coinciding with a visit by the Colonel, he was observed swimming across the river. Soon he came into full view on the opposite bank – stark naked and running for his life. Rifles, K Guns on the Dingo and Stens all opened up, but with more enthusiasm than accuracy and he finally disappeared over the far bank – definitely limping and holding his right leg, but still a runner.
A reliable civilian reported that the village of HET WILD was held by 400 Marines, manning the line of the road. All the guns of the Regt (8 x 75mm) were brought up to the area and the Sqn Ldr and 5Tp went to within about 1 mile due West of HET WILD from where a clear view was obtained. Three good targets of Germans walking about and looking up at us, and each one in turn was thoroughly and accurately subjected to about 100 rounds apiece. During this time no attempt was made to interfere with either the guns or the OP, so the dose was repeated with very satisfactory results including two large house fires, and houses which the Germans were seen to enter received direct hits. In all, about 700 rounds fell in the target area. All Tps withdrew to LITH.

A Sqn. 8th – 9th.
Remained at OSS in reserve with patrols out at night in a defensive role.

B Sqn.
Sqn in factory in OSS. Day spent in cleaning up and maintenance. A football match against A Sqn. 1Tp and 4Tp were out for the night on defence of OSS.

B Sqn.
Sqn still in Phillips factory in OSS. Sgt Mathison and the 75mm Gun Tp still away with the remainder of the Regt’s Gun Tps. They had been employed since the afternoon of the 7th in support of C Sqn with various DF tanks in addition. 3Tp and 5Tp were out for the night in the same positions.

A Sqn.
The Sqn moved to LITH to relieve C Sqn. The job was to maintain a line of observation during the day on the MAAS from LITH to GUWANDE and at night the Sqn was responsible for the defence of LITH.
2Tp Lt Williamson took up a position at MAREN with a Scout sect ½ mile to the North and another Scout sect at the southern end of the village. Visibility was very restricted during the day owing to inclement weather and no movement was seen although rifle fire and MG fire was heard from the factory area 3758.
3Tp Lt Hodginson took up a position at 3854 with a Scout sect on the canal bank at 382540 who reported 5 dug-outs which appeared to be manned at 373535. 5Tp Lt Osborne was used as a stop gap patrol at KESSEL.
Another source of information was from the Burgomaster TOM of LITH whose men carried out cycle patrols during the day and were responsible for the defence of the western end of the town. Information from TOM was 100 SS constructing gun-pits between the two factories in square 3554.
At night all Tps were employed for blocking roads and a defensive fire plan was laid on using all eight of the Regt’s 75mm guns. At 2330 hours a general ‘stand to’ was ordered owing to an enemy attack in Btn strength on GEFFEN. This attack was repulsed bt the Rifle Bde and normal guard procedure was adopted at 0200 hours.

B Sqn.
Sqn same location. At first light 2Tp Lt Burridge, who has returned to command his Tp after doing 2i/c since Major Reid Scott was injured, went out to a patrol position on the canal in area 4153. This was to watch for any enemy movement from NULAND, or of any enemy infiltration East, from the S’HERTOGENBOSCH area. Nine explosions were reported from NULAND, which the enemy still held.
Lt Nicholson with a Scout car patrol recced the area NE of OSS and saw no signs of the enemy. 2Tp returned at last light and 1Tp and 4Tp did the night patrols. A football match against D Sqn resulted in a draw. Yesterday and today the whole Sqn had hot showers in OSS.

C Sqn. 11th – 17th.
Remained in OSS. Two Tps were out nightly doing perimeter defence – nothing to report.

A Sqn.
4Tp Lt Woodhouse was ordered to the MAREN patrol and reported 12 Infantry at the lock gates at 3558 and 5 Infantry at 360585. The enemy shelled MAREN with four 75mm guns from the area of the brick factories just before last light but no casualties were sustained.
5Tp carried out the southern patrol and reported no movement seen. The defence of LITH was carried out at night and no incidents were reported. During the two days SHQ was established in the brewery which unfortunately was not in operation.

B Sqn.
During the night the enemy attacked NE from NULAND towards GEFFEN. A Coy of RB’s on the NULAND – OSS railway took the brunt of the attack which was supported by 2 0r 3 SP guns. There were signs that the enemy might also attempt to infiltrate into OSS which from 2200 hours to 2400 hours was subjected to spasmodic shellfire. At 2330 hours the Sqn was alerted and remained in this state until 0300 hours. 1Tp and 4Tp reported the enemy activity throughout the night and 3Tp was sent out to fill the gap between 1Tp and 4Tp.
2Tp was alerted into a position of readiness to support them. 4Tp engaged enemy in area 455546 who withdrew. By 0200 hours the “flap” had died down but 1, 3 and 4 Tps remained on the perimeter for the whole night.
A careful recce of the ground at first light found no signs of the enemy. Tps returned to Sqn area. Tp Ldrs of 1, 3 and 4Tps visited A Sqn patrol positions which we take over tomorrow. 2Tp and 5Tp did the night patrol. A quiet night.

A Sqn.
B Sqn took over and the Sqn returned to OSS and was billeted in the Phillips Factory.

B Sqn.
Sqn moved at first light to take over from A Sqn at LITH. 4Tp was at MAREN with the Scout sect of 1Tp under command. 3Tp was at 403548. There was little activity during the day and the only enemy actually seen were those reported by 4Tp Scout sect in the area 357557 on the West side of the MAAS.
In LITH, SHQ is located in the house of the Burgomaster’s brother. The Burgomaster named Tom, operates the local Maquis with great efficiency. These Dutchmen are a good organisation and get useful information.
1, 2 and 5 Tps were in the night positions which constitute a close perimeter defence of LITH. Tom’s outfit is responsible for the East end of the town. The CO visited the KESSEL patrol in the afternoon.

B Sqn.
1Tp and 5Tp were out at 382587 and 405544. 1Tp had a Scout section in KESSEL and MAREN in observation of enemy across the MAAS in the HOOGEWAARD area. These were a small garrison of German marines who looked after the Fort and the lock gates at 3558. Enemy were seen in these areas during the day but there was nothing unusual to report.
At last light 1 and 5 Tps returned and 2, 3 and 4 Tps went into the perimeter defence positions on the outskirts of LITH. The HCR with Majors Herbert and Grant Lawson were firing their A/Tk weapons in the LITH area.

D Sqn.
The Sqn moved at first light to take over from B Sqn at LITH, SHQ living in the brewery of M. Vimourik and his brother Tom of Lith – the organiser of the OD in the area and a splendid chap.
1Tp went to MAREN, with a Scout sect at KESSEL who reported no movement seen all day.

D Sqn.
2Tp found Germans still burning houses at 0830 hours. 20 enemy seen at 363547 and were stonked by 7Tp with 80 rounds and got 5 of them. The other 15 fled back to ALEM less their kit. LCpl Rivers heavily booby trapped MAREN at last light in case more burning was intended.
5Tp went to the left and built a bridge over the ditch to enable the cars to get under cover, but heavy rain prevented its use. Nothing occurred during the night except heavy rain.

D Sqn.
3Tp right, saw nothing during the day due to the rain except 2 SS officers inspecting the bank, one of them was shot in the thigh by LCpl Rivers.
4Tp left, no movement seen. Rain all day. Tom captured 2 Dutch spies who had been paid 3000 Guilders each to find out who and what we were. Nothing seen during the night.

C Sqn.
Sqn left OSS to relieve D Sqn at LITH. At 0730 hours 7Tp reported the bridges at 464566, 443563 and 429550 had been blown during the night. We had to go on as far East as 472572. The blowing of the bridges was thought to have been the work of spies, or at any rate assisted by civilians. In fact the Burgomaster of LITH – Tom – caught 3 spies on this day – carrying not only a large sum of money but explosives, fuse wire and detonators. It is hoped that they were shot – the blown bridges made us 2 hours late.
3Tp went to MAREN, 5Tp went to KESSEL and 1Tp to 405543. 3Tp observed some enemy working at 361571 – digging in and an MG on the road embankment. They were engaged with 7Tp and scattered. Some MGs opened up later in the afternoon, engaged and silenced..
Tps withdrew for the night. At 0310 hours a large explosion was reported, probably in KESSEL.

B Sqn.
Sqn location still the same, patrols still the same, no incidents reported.
Lt Nicholson who has been commanding the Scout Tp has taken over 2Tp from Lt Burridge who takes over Scout Tp. As of today the Tps are commanded as follows:-

1Tp Lt Young, Sgt Richmond	4Tp Lt Flood, Sgt Truswell
2Tp Lt Nicholson, Sgt Ruder	5Tp Lt Sivewright, Sgt Purkiss
3Tp Lt Chapman, Sgt McGuire	6Tp (Scout) Lt Burridge, Sgt Gardiner
7Tp (guns) Sgt Mathison.

In addition Lt Preston with 5Tp and Lt Gibson with 3Tp are supernumerary and under instruction.

D Sqn.
C Sqn were to take over but they were delayed by blown bridges. 20 enemy were reported in KESSEL but not found by 1Tp who cleared MAREN for C Sqn.
Returned to OSS – it rained – prepared cars for painting. At night patrol at bridge called Bowler Hat, no movement seen.

C Sqn.
2Tp with two Scout sections did MAREN and KESSEL. The explosion reported at 0310 hours proved to be the demolition of KESSEL church, the enemy telling the locals we had been using it as an OP, which was not true, as in fact it was not a good OP.
4Tp went to the southern position at 405543. He had considerable difficulty in getting there through the mud – it having been a very wet night. A Honey tank, which we had picked up a few months previously, proved invaluable in recovering ditched ACs, as it did in this case. The enemy left a boat on the far bank in full view of 2Tp. It was decided to sink this with 2pdr at last light, but the car got stuck again in bad going and had to be towed out again by the tank. Going was practically impossible off the roads.

B Sqn. 19th – 22nd.Sqn remained in OSS and carried out the normal day and night patrols. On the 22nd the 43rd Div which had concentrated in the OSS area on the 21st, commenced an attack towards S’HERTOGENBOSCH, as an aid to the advance of the Canadians and Poles who were advancing slowly, too slowly, towards the TILBURG – BREDA line, in the face of strong enemy opposition. B Sqn took no part in the attack.

D Sqn.
In reserve. Night patrols, no movement seen.

D Sqn.
5Tp out on patrol North of GEFFEN. A quiet day except that they were taken on by 2 Spitfires who made 6 low level attacks and scored 3 hits, despite all the recognition panels and smoke. Fortunately no one was hurt.

C Sqn.
The Sqn was relieved at first light by A Sqn and returned to OSS.

A Sqn.
Moved up to LITH. Two sub-units were used, one to MAREN and one South to 4055. They remained out during the day and had nothing to report. The defence of LITH was carried out as was previously done on the 10th of October.

D Sqn.
In reserve.

A Sqn patrolled to MAREN and met a party estimated 12 – 20 enemy. In the attempt to clear these, Cpl Aris and Tpr Neal were killed and later Sgt Poynton’s car was KO’d by a bazooka; he was killed and his crew wounded and PoW, later recaptured in S’HERTOGENBOSCH. His body was recovered the following day by the O.D.
Other A Sqn dingo patrols pushed forward to the line of the 38 Grid North of the canal and D Sqn pushed similar patrols to the 39 Grid South of the canal. Southerly movement was observed on the WILD – GEWANDE road and movement in the latter of small bodies of enemy troops. These were engaged by our 75’s which also fired a total of 1700 rounds on a series of targets including a Bty of guns at 345559. The 53 Div attack went smoothly and at last light 160 Bde were firm in KRUISTRAAT.

A Sqn.
4Tp to MAREN, 1Tp Sgt Hall to 4055. Dingo patrol to 381549. A programme was laid out for the Regt to engage targets on the West side of the MAAS in areas ALEM and KIRKDRIEL and on the East side in area HET WILD and GUWANDE.
4Tp were to clear MAREN and get an OP in the southern end of the village. In carrying out the clearing of the place they ran into a party of enemy Infantry ensconced in the houses. Cpl Aris and Tpr Neal of the Scout sect ran into trouble in one house and were both shot by small arms fire and killed. In trying to round up these Germans, Sgt Poynton was killed by a bazooka hitting his car and his crew, LCpl Blake and Tpr Lambert were both taken prisoner. This meant that an OP could not be set up in the South.
The Tp took up position on the northern part of the town with a dismounted sect stationed in a house overlooking the canal. The observation was very restricted owing to the weather which was very dull and misty.
The Dingo patrol reported 12 men moving South from HET WILD to GUWANDE. He was also able to OP a few of the gun Tps tasks in the South. The Gun Tp under Lt Brett engaged in all 16 targets and fired off 1700 rounds. Unfortunately poor observation was obtained owing to the weather and the majority of the shoots were from the map. The bodies of Sgt Poynton, Cpl Aris and Tpr Neal were recovered and buried in the Military Cemetery at OSS.

D Sqn.
The attack on S’HERTOGENBOSCH started. 2Tp went to normal patrol North of GEFFEN. Nothing seen due to smoke from brews drifting across the front.

C Sqn.
53 Div commenced a push against S’HERTOGENBOSCH. We were to send one Tp out on their right flank. 2Tp went to 417537 and then to 379522 with a Scout sect at 373535. The Scout position was that which 4Tp had occupied for his shoot on the 9th and the Tp and SHQ position was the same area that he had shelled. His shots had fallen right amongst what appeared to be a Coy position.
The morning was very foggy right up to 1130 hours. 7Tp did several shoots ‘off the map’. At 1130 hours Sqn was relieved by 53rd Recce.

A Sqn.
Two patrols were despatched as for the previous days and at midday 53rd Recce Regt relieved us at LITH. We moved with the Regt to VEGHEL in preparation for the offensive towards TILBURG.

B Sqn.
At 1500 hours the Sqn moved from OSS to the UDEN area where the Regt spent the night concentrated.

D Sqn.
Moved at 1330 hours to VEGHEL area.

C Sqn.
Moved with the Regt to SCHINDEL.

A Sqn.
Moved off at 1800 hours and spent the night at WYBOSCH.

B Sqn.
The day was spent in the UDEN area. At 1800 hours the Sqn with the Regt moved to area of WYBOSCH where the night was spent. We are prepared to operate tomorrow. The Sqn Ldr lost his way on a simple night march. This was very shaming.

D Sqn.
Moved at 1800 hours to WYBOSCH.

C Sqn.
Moved with the Regt to ST MICHEL GESTEL.

A Sqn.
The 7th Armd Div were to advance on LOON OP ZAND. The job of the Regt was to provide an advance screen and also a right and left flank guard which necessitated the use of four Sqns. A Sqn was on the left and two Tps were used at first. 1Tp Sgt Hall was despatched to BOXTEL and reported it clear of enemy. He remained there during the day awaiting the arrival elements of 15th (S) Div from the East.
2Tp Lt Newnham advanced to the bridge at 274354 and found it blown and held by Infantry with mortars. He was mortared and shelled and forced to withdraw into a wood from which point he used his guns but was unable to make any further advance. All Tps returned at last light to SHQ at DE KETTING.

B Sqn.
The Sqn moved at first light. 3Tp and 5Tp proceeded to the bridge at 4240 over the R. DOMMEL which had been constructed by 51st Div during the night. 3Tp arrived at the bridge to find it incomplete and the sappers stated it would be complete by 1000 hours. At ESCH the situation was that AC recce could not approach the river because of mortar and artillery fire.
At 0945 hours 3Tp crossed on a class 9 bridge and at 1000 hours the class 40 bridge was completed. After moving North for about 3000 yards, 3Tp found a road block which appeared to be held only by snipers and spandaus. Two tank Tps of the Northants Yeomanry and carriers of the Black Watch were also across. 5Tp had crossed the bridge and moved 1500 yards West followed by a Tp of D Sqn.
At 1045 hours the enemy brought up SP artillery and counter attacked the bridgehead. Two Shermans of the Northants Yeomanry were knocked out. Lt Chapman went immediately to the aid of the crew nearest to him which had been hit by two 88mm shells. He helped the crew from the tank under enemy fire and it was while attending to their wounds that the Sherman exploded, killing or wounding those around it. Lt Chapman was wounded in the hand and leg but not seriously. He had behaved with great gallantry. He was evacuated and Sgt McGuire took over 3Tp.
5Tp had also come under 88mm fire and a shell hit a tree close to Lt Sivewright’s car, tearing down a branch which caused bad abrasions to his back. He carried on in command of his Tp. The enemy made some fanatical penetrations and all Tps retired somewhat towards the bridge. Sgt McGuire killed a German Sgt at 5 yards range. Northants Yeomanry had lost 4 tanks and 51st Div had some casualties.
By 1400 hours the situation was restored but no advance had been made North of the bridge greater than 1000 yards. The bridge was mortared and intermittently shelled all day. In the late afternoon 51st Div started to advance and by last light reached the area of the road block. 3Tp and 5Tp were withdrawn and the Sqn complete spent the night in the area 1 mile NW of ST MICHEL GESTEL.

D Sqn.
Moved at 0630 hours to ST MICHEL GESTEL. 5Tp to ESCH bridge which was class 9 and had a bridgehead of a Coy of the Black Watch. Heavy mortaring and shelling took place all day and no advance was made.
1Tp was sent to the new bridge at HAL and turning West reached 306395 and was shot at by an 88mm from 304394. He withdrew to railway crossing to find 2 tanks brewing from an 88mm parked in at 318408. He managed, with the help of a stonk from 7Tp, to get back to the main road and shelling of the area continued throughout the day.

C Sqn.
In the afternoon the Sqn took over the two right sub-units of B Sqn who were doing advance guard to the Bde. 5Tp went to 277401 and 3Tp to 267406.
An 88mm was troubling the Tp of B Sqn at 267406, and he could here and understand the enemy giving orders on his own W/T – apparently they were both on the same frequency. We immediately engaged this gun with 7Tp and the enemy immediately came up on the air and requested ‘leave to move as enemy shelling was getting uncomfortably close’.
The Sqn was shortly afterwards ordered to move to and hold LAAR which was on the CL. 3Tp was sent on ahead to recce the position, as the Sqn was held up in a traffic jam. 3Tp arrived just before last light and Lt Ballingal went round in his Dingo. On the road to the North he found a 75mm A/Tk gun, less breech block, and whilst looking at it he saw nearby 7 Germans who came out and gave themselves up. Unfortunately he could not tow the gun with his Dingo, so he returned to his Tp with the PoW and sent out a WSC to collect the gun, but they found it gone.
5Tp also took 1 PoW from 2 Coy, 1036 Grenadier Regt. Sqn all arrived OK at LAAR and there was nothing to report during the night, though the following night it was recaptured by the enemy.

A Sqn.
Two Tps again used in the South. 4Tp Lt Woodhouse to the bridges at 268354 and 274354. They were blown and he was unable to make any progress. Tpr Jones ’80, a member of a Scout sect was wounded in the neck and evacuated.
1Tp recced the bridges South of OOSTERWLJK. The bridges at 245344 and 230340 were blown but the latter was under repair by 15th (S) Div. Lt Osborne was sent off as LO to the 15th Div. Tps returned at last light and 1, 3 and 5 Tps were used as local protection.

B Sqn.
Sqn spent the day in ST MICHEL GESTEL until 1400 hours waiting for a secure bridgehead. Eventually 5th RTR crossed over the ESCH bridgehead and made secure area 2638. 1st RTR were to be passed through them and advance to UDENHOUT. 2Tp was ordered to in front of 1st RTR on the centre line. 3Tp to watch HELUOIRT – VUGHT road and 1Tp to watch the road and advance SW from HELOUIRT.
3Tp had successful engagements with enemy Infantry in area 2740, killing several, capturing 9 and 1 officer. 4Tp operating North came within 150 yards of an 88mm from which he was able to retire before the crew had recovered from their astonishment. 7Tp engaged the 88mm and caused it to retire. 1Tp had no incidents. 2Tp had a hazardous run to UDENHOUT in front of 1st RTR who really moved, firing their guns non-stop for the whole of the 9 Kms. This was extremely unpleasant for 2Tp. Enemy showed some resistance in UDENHOUT but by nightfall the place was clear.
Sqn concentrated with 8th Hussars and 1st RTR in UDENHOUT for the night. The enemy today having been completely surprised.

D Sqn.
3Tp worked on to area BELVERT with enemy at EIND. 4Tp MOLENSTAAT where he was held up by a gun firing from 263374. He reached HAREN in the evening, a few enemy seen and disposed of.

C Sqn.
Sqn role was right flank guard with 3Tp on the right to 252422, 4Tp (Lt Mitchell in comd – Sgt Berry on leave) in centre and 5Tp on the left. The country was very thick with visibility limited to as little as 25 yards by trees and thick mist. 3Tp and 4Tp reached their positions and were relieved by Derbyshire Yeomanry of 51 (H) Div.
5Tp followed the CL as far as 185400 where he was with the leading Tp of B Sqn. Here the CL turned West and 5Tp had to continue North. At 0825 hours he had gone a further 200 yards in very thick fog. He saw and engaged some enemy in the wood just to his North, but immediately after the Tp Ldr’s car received a direct hit in the front from a 75mm A/Tk gun. The driver, Tpr Mower was killed instantaneously, but Lt Esch and Tpr Hale managed to get out and get back to the rest of the Tp, though they were MG’d on the way. The second Daimler was also hit, by a ricochet, which did very slight damage.
The Sqn moved on and concentrated at 186374.

A Sqn.
The Sqn spent the day at BERKEL with an LO with the 15th (S) Div, Lt Newnham.

B Sqn.
The plot for today is that 8th Hussars should advance to LOON OP ZAND with B Sqn operating in front of them. A very misty morning and patrolling was very difficult. 5Tp operated along the 8th Hussars centre line on the northern route. In the area of SCHOORSTRAAT they were held up by bazookas, one of which missed Lt Sivewright’s car by a coat of paint, and by enemy Infantry with spandaus. In addition, just to the North of 5Tp, a Tp of C Sqn had a car knocked out by an 88mm.
1Tp made slow progress because of a minefield. Later he captured a bazooka and crew. 2Tp recced well and boldly to HEIKANT where he contacted D Sqn and a recce of the Scots Guards. He moved North and joined up with 1Tp at 1538. 1Tp found a covered road block at 1539 and remained in observation of this.
The enemy were obviously reluctant to our approaching LOON OP ZAND. The Queens Bde with 8th Hussars attacked it in the late afternoon with no success. Tps were withdrawn at night and the Sqn was concentrated in UDENHOUT.

D Sqn.
At first light 1Tp went to OOSTERWIJK and found it clear, then on up to 215350 where he met 2Tp coming down the main road. 1Tp went on and found all the bridges on the canal at TILBURG blown. Shot sundry Germans in the area.
5Tp went to UDENHOUT and South to LEVENDE KRAN – no movement seen – worked up West to 172350 and found a few enemy in HEIKANT. Moved to 158360 where he was shot at by a Firefly of the 5th Dragoon Guards, which fortunately missed.
4Tp went along the canal to 135349 finding the bridge blown. 2Tp worked through the woods West of HEIKANT and found a few dispersed Germans.

C Sqn.
Nothing for us – Sqn moved to BERKEL.

A Sqn.
Moved back to LAAR and came under command 5th RTR who had a task force protecting the Div CL. One Tp went out to 233411 and reported 5 Infantry in woods 223420. He remained out during the night as a listening watch.

B Sqn.
Sqn were to be prepared to operate West from LOON OP ZAND dependant on the success of the Queens successful attack. 4Tp followed by 3Tp moved out in readiness to do this. 4Tp moved to the Infantry Start Line for their morning attack and came into the midst of a heavy enemy mortar concentration and also an extremely short concentration by our mediums. He withdrew and halted.
It was now apparent that the enemy held a strong line running East and West through LOON OP ZAND. The battle now became an Infantry and tank one and therefore the Sqn was pulled back and ordered to concentrate in the area of 2036. Tpr Blackmore, the Sqn DR, was killed today by a stray shell that landed in Tac Sqn HQ at 1738 hours. This was pure bad luck. Tpr Blackmore was an old 11th Hussars hand in LIBYA and at one time was lost for 5 days in the desert with SSM Emery.

D Sqn.
4Tp to go along the canal working up the main road. He reached the X roads early at DE HEIDEBLOM, but his leading DAC was KO’d by a bazooka and his second DAC went into a ditch. The WSC, by very skilful manipulation (Cpl Trendall and Tpr Pritchett) managed under heavy fire from a 75mm SP gun, to get back down the very straight road. One shell went through the windscreen, wounding Cpl Trendall in the thumb. Sgt Walker and Tpr Breakell got back by foot , but Lt Cousins, Tpr Greenhough, Tpr White and LCpl Cartwright ’08 were missing.
2Tp took over and spent the day in observation at 120355. 3Tp with scouts at 140382 stonked enemy Infantry with 7Tp.

C Sqn.
At 1300 hours the Sqn had orders to recce West from 108379. SHQ and 1Tp & 4Tp went 2000 yards SE and met 5th DG still taking this place – the area was not taken till dark. Sqn concentrated at 132354.

A Sqn.
3Tp and 4Tp moved NW and SW from GUILDENBURG. 4Tp advanced to 233411 clearing the wooded areas and was later withdrawn. 3Tp advanced to 228437 and reported one SP and Infantry at 223430. The enemy force was shelled and withdrew. At 222439 he reported more Infantry who were shelled. He was withdrawn at last light to SHQ at LAAR.

B Sqn.
Major Lawson left the Sqn to take over 2i/c of the Regt. Capt Lovett takes over the Sqn and Lt Burridge becomes 2i/c.Lt Chapman was awarded the MC (immediate) and no officer deserved it more.

D Sqn.
In reserve. C Sqn and RB’s found Lt Cousins, Tpr Greenhough and LCpl Cartwright killed and the second DAC blown up. Tpr White was reported by a PoW to be wounded in the stomach and leg and a prisoner.

C Sqn.
1Tp and 4Tp left at first light with 4Tp direct on DONGEN and 1Tp on the bridge over the canal at 067388. By 0800 hours, 4Tp was in the middle of DONGEN and pushing on WNW to OOSTERHOUT. There was a short delay caused by a large crater in the road at 054401.
3Tp was sent to the bridge at 048398 which was blown and thence to OOSTERHOUT also by the most southerly route. 1Tp had reached his bridge, which was blown, and had taken 5 PoW on route.
Between 0900 and 1000 hours, 3Tp and 4Tp came amongst the 1st RTR who were approaching OOSTERHOUT from further North. By 1000 hours we were in a close semi-circle round OOSTERHOUT which the enemy was holding with Infantry and a few A/Tk guns. These guns were quickly KO’d by the 1st RTR tanks and artillery and soon after the tanks went in down the main road. 1Tp and 3Tp who were out on the left were held up for a while, but took several PoW – 13 in all, and 3Tp went through to the far side – nearly as far as the bridge at 001425, which was blown but held by enemy on the far side.
3Tp was heavily and accurately mortared and were told by a civilian that there was an enemy OP in a church tower. There were 4 or 5 churches but they soon afterwards saw a suspicious type through the window of a church, halfway up the spire, and machine gunned him. Shelling stopped.
At 1615 hours 4Tp was ordered to move to 024426 to make a recce of the bridge across the canal. The road to the bridge was on an embankment with a line of trees on either side and very open country beyond these. No way off the road. 4Tp went to within 400 yards of the bridge and then halted, dismounted his Scout sect and advanced to within 50 yards of the bridge which was completely blown. The Scout sect was then MG’d and mortared, but withdrew OK. The Tp was then shelled but again remained OK.
Sqn withdrew complete to DONGEN for the night. During the night a sentry challenged and captured 5 German soldiers trying to make their way home.

A Sqn.
The 53rd Recce Regt took over from us and we reverted to the Regt. Rejoined the Regt at DONGEN.

B Sqn.
Sqn moved to DONGEN.

D Sqn.
Moved at 1030 hours to DONGEN.

C Sqn.
1 & 4Tp with SHQ returned to OOSTERHOUT. 1Tp went to 008443 with the role of watching West over the canal and 4Tp contacted an RE officer and a 1st RTR patrol at 024426. It was decided that 4Tp should first try to approach the bridge unseen in the fog, to see if it were held – which it was – then our guns and the guns of the 1st RTR should shell the area of the bridge – which they did heavily and accurately – and finally a single tank with the RE officer on board, and our Scout sect of 4 men would drive up to the bridge for the RE officer’s inspection. All of which went well. The RE’s report was that the bridging would be a big job – more than 24 hours. 1Tp reported that the line of the WILHELMINA canal was held by enemy on the West bank – men kept showing themselves all the way along. At 1300 hours, the Sqn was withdrawn into Regtl reserve at DONGEN.
A Sqn.
At DONGEN carrying out maintenance.

B Sqn.
Billeted in church school at DONGEN. Maintenance the order of the day.

D Sqn.
The Burgomaster and the chief of the OD went to the graves and placed wreaths on them. Arrangements were made to move them to the cemetery at DONGEN.

C Sqn. 1 – 10th
Sqn moved to OSS on the 7th Nov and remained in Regtl reserve for 3 days. On the 10th the Sqn moved South through EINDHOVEN to MAESEYCK on the R MAAS. Our Sqn area was on the extreme right of the British Troops, and on our right flank, just across the river, was the American 9th Army. The area was reported to be very quiet; the river being about 100 yards broad and in spate.
The Sqn had three Tps out. 3Tp on the right at blown bridge 643790, 1Tp in the centre at the church 649799 with an OP in the tower, and 5Tp on the left at road junction 648804 with a Scout sect hiding in a house on the river bank at 650808. This was under enemy observation and had to be approached with considerable care – usually in the back of a farm cart. There was strict W/T silence and all communication were by telephone. Sqn arrived in the area about 1530 hours and Tps took over at 1630 hours.
Shortly after dark the sentry at 3Tp heard shouts in the middle of the river and soon after saw an American soldier half-swimming and half-clinging to an overturned boat about 100 yards downstream from the damaged bridge. He was brought in in a very exhausted condition, and stated that there had been 4 men in the boat, trying to cross the river and it had been overturned against the framework of the bridge, which was in the water. He thought the rest had been drowned but 3Tp had heard voices and seen a light flash by the stone pillar in the middle of the bridge, and thought they had got out on the far side. Actually 2 had been drowned and the 4th had spent the night on the stone pillar in the middle of the river and 3Tp rescued him with considerable difficulty the next morning.
During the night a Tp of A Sqn on our left was attacked by the enemy – a patrol – and their line went dis. 5Tp went up to contact them – found that they had beaten off the attack and were OK – so returned.

A Sqn. 1 – 6th
Remained at DONGEN on maintenance and training.
During the morning of 3rd Nov, the White Scout sects, given the job of lifting SCHU mines in the area 0839, went out under Capt Friend and proceeded to clear the tracks of these mines. Midway through the morning, Cpl Marley, one of the sect commanders, stepped on one of the mines which was situated just outside the safe lane. He sustained injuries to his foot and Tpr Logue who was standing nearby suffered superficial injuries to his face. Both were taken to hospital.

B Sqn.
In billets, non operational, in DONGEN. Training and a certain amount of reshuffling in view of the number of men going home after 5 years overseas service. A grand concert, plus rum punch in the school buildings, organised by the Brother Superior and SSM Emery.

D Sqn. 1 – 6th.
Sqn in reserve at DONGEN. The weather was bad and the time confined to maintenance. Tpr Bachus went home for 10 days compassionate leave.

1Tp Lt EAI Young
2Tp Lt ATR Nicholson (Lt IG Troup – supernumerary)
3Tp Sgt McGuire (2Lt B Gibson – supernumerary)
4Tp Lt RA Flood
5Tp Lt RCT Sivewright
7Tp Sgt Mathieson (Sgt Richmond – supernumerary)White Tp Lt RFH Preston

A Sqn.
The Regt moved out to area OSS – GEFFEN with B & D Sqns in the line and C & A Sqns in reserve. We were in GEFFEN with RHQ and were in immediate reserve.

B Sqn.
Sqn moved to ROSMALEN – with three Tps out at KRUISTRAAT, ROSMALEN and HERVEN day and night with a static role watching the line of the MAAS. Very little activity on either side.

D Sqn.
Moved at 0930 hours to OSS where we took over from 51 (H) Recce (Derbyshire Yeomanry) at LITH. Returned to the brewery. 1Tp to KESSEL and MAREN. No movement seen.

A Sqn.
Remained at GEFFEN.

B Sqn.
Still doing static patrols. Sqn very comfortable in civvy billets.

D Sqn.
2Tp to KESSEL and MAREN. No movement seen all day and much rain.

B Sqn.
Expected to be relieved by the Canadians who have now moved further East after having cleared up enemy from South of the MAAS.

D Sqn.
3Tp to KESSEL and MAREN. LCpl Rivers killed 3 Germans at the factory from KESSEL with a snipers rifle – range 800 yards at least, otherwise no movement seen. Rained all day.
Two officers from 4th Canadian Armd Div A/Tk Regt came and spent the night before taking over.

A Sqn.
Moved off from GEFFEN to take over from 53rd Recce Regt who were in the area of MAESEYCK in a role of holding and observing a river line on the R MEUSE. The Sqn was given the northern sector and two Tps were despatched at 1700 hours to take up position. 1Tp Sgt Hall went to the windmill East of OPHOVEN, 2Tp Lt Williamson was despatched to a position in GEYSTINGEN. A complete W/T silence was imposed on the Div and communication were established by field telephone.
SHQ was set up in a house in the village of OPHOVEN and a line party was despatched laying the lines to the two Tp positions. No sooner than the line to 1Tp was established, it was broken by enemy shellfire. However the line party repaired the break on their return and by 1830 hours communication were established to the two patrols.

B Sqn.
Relieved by the Canadians and moved to MAESEYCK. Sqn were billeted in a school nearby, out of the line. 4Tp Dingo was damaged on the way down, but otherwise a good march in fearful weather.

D Sqn.
Handover during the morning and got baths in OSS, and amid a fantastic send-off we disappeared to OOSTERWIJK for the night before moving to MAESEYCK, where the Regt had moved during the day.

C Sqn.
Nothing further occurred during the day 0 2Tp relieved 3Tp in the evening.

A Sqn.
At 0500 hours 1Tp reported 10 to 12 Germans on the West side of the river and they had advanced as far as 654825. From this position they began to mortar the Tp with 2” mortars. Sgt Hall immediately manned his guns and put down withering fire with Besa and K guns and forced the enemy to withdraw. It was not possible to see how the river crossing was made because of darkness. The enemy fired in all, 20 mortar bombs with the result of a few damaged houses and the phone wires being cut again in 4 or 5 places. Civilians reported afterwards that there were 16 dead Germans on the river bank as a result of the action but this was unconfirmed.

B Sqn.
Maintenance and much cleaning after the journey.

D Sqn.
Left at 1200 hours and arrived at 2200 hours. The Sqn Ldr’s AC was hit by 2 lorries in the dark and was left for the night. SSM McHardy went in the ditch as also did Sgt Addis. Sgt Lyon’s AC was forced into a ditch by a car. It was very dark and the roads narrow and wet. Other cars were travelling too fast and with full headlights.

C Sqn.
Nothing to report. 4Tp relieved 5Tp in the evening.

A Sqn. 12 – 13th.
Patrols remained the same and each Tp took turns at the positions which remained static.

B Sqn.
The Echelon took over our billets and we moved into MAESEYCK into civvy houses. All the men happy and comfortable.

D Sqn. 12 – 13th.
In reserve. Rained all day.

B Sqn.
Gave a party to the men going home to England – repatriated after 5 years overseas service.
Sgt Mathieson, Sgt Purkiss, LCpl Oliver, Tpr Stonier, Tpr Jordan, Sgt Cobley, Tpr Hickford, Sgt Gardiner and LCpl Midcalf.
A great time organised by SSM Emery, and thoroughly enjoyed by all.

C Sqn.
At 1255 hours a gun fired on OPHOVEN area. We reported sound bearings of the gun. At 1630 hours B Sqn relieved us and the Sqn went into reserve, remaining in MAESEYCK in a comfortable school.

A Sqn.
D Sqn (Major Crankshaw) relieved us and we went into reserve near MAESEYCK.

B Sqn.
Sgt McGuire – 3Tp awarded the MM – a great and well deserved award. Sgt McGuire has shown outstanding bravery at all times, and his Tp Ldr (Lt Chapman), now recovering in England will be delighted.
Took over three patrols from C Sqn. Operated for the first time using telephones – not a great success, but a devil of a lot of work laying and repairing lines. Nothing to report all day and night.
The repatriated men (see 13th) went home. I wonder if we will see them again. Such fine old 11th Hussars can ill be lost to the Regt. 1Tp relieved 3Tp – 5Tp relieved 4t at last light. Telephones not considered an asset.

D Sqn.
Moved to Engineering College North of MAESEYCK. Sgt Luke (5Tp) helped A Sqn night patrol on the main road.

C Sqn. 15 – 17th
Remained in same area. Town was shelled and the children evacuated our school, making more room.

A Sqn. 15 – 17th.
Remained in reserve carrying out maintenance. Lt MacLean took over 1Tp from Sgt Hall who was due for Home Establishment.

B Sqn.
2Tp remained on the bridge – 1Tp relieved 3Tp – 5Tp relieved 4Tp. Lt Preston took the White sect to the house overlooking the river. Nothing to report all day.

D Sqn.
Took over from A Sqn at OPHOVEN. 1Tp to the customs House, 3Tp to the farm at 655832. 2Tp to farm at 653826. NMS during the night.

D Sqn.
3Tp came in and 2 WSC of 2Tp. No movement seen. 3Tp took over left, 4Tp centre and 5Tp right. No movement seen, heavy frost.

D Sqn.
4Tp came in. no movement seen. In the evening 2Tp left, 4Tp centre and 1Tp right. No movement seen during the night.

A Sqn.
Took over the position at OPHOVEN from D Sqn. The situation remained unchanged with the exception of two extra patrols by night only. This therefore meant extra night patrols were at 653832 and 645815. Spasmodic shelling again took place during the afternoon on the X roads at OPHOVEN.

B Sqn.
Nothing to report all day. Relieved by C Sqn at last light.

D Sqn.
1Tp saw a suspected OP in a house at LAAK. 7Tp liberated it. No movement seen, except 1 mortar firing from South of the Jam factory at 660822. Stropped up by 7Tp. In the evening 3Tp left and 5Tp right. Nothing to report.

C Sqn.
At 0530 hours a few mortar shells landed in front of centre. At 0900, 1010, 1135 and 1525 hours OPHOVEN was shelled by up to 3 guns. Bearings were taken and guns located in area 6980 and were shelled by Regtl Tp of 75mm.

A Sqn. 20 – 21st.
Situation remained unchanged and on the 22nd D Sqn took over again and we went into reserve near MAESEYCK. Major Turnbull returned from hospital and assumed command of the Sqn and Capt Petch reverted to 2i/c.

B Sqn.
Nothing to report.

D Sqn. 20 – 22nd.
In reserve. Moved back to school. 1Tp, 3Tp and 5Tp out on the road at night.

B Sqn.
Nothing to report.

A Sqn. 22 – 25th.
In reserve near MAESEYCK carrying out maintenance and training.

B Sqn.
Took over from C Sqn. 5Tp on the right with the location slightly changed. He now sits in a house about 300 yards NE of MAESEYCK bridge. 1Tp in centre at the church and 4Tp commanded by Lt Preston at the house patrol. Nothing to report during the night.

B Sqn.
2Tp relieved 5Tp. Lt Young did a good foot patrol to a house on the river front about 2000 yards East of his location and reported the house could be used as a good OP, also that there were a few enemy on the other side of the river who sniped at civilians. A quiet night.

D Sqn.
Took over from A Sqn. Lt Newton MC returned to Sqn. Nothing to report.

B Sqn.
2Tp still on right. 1Tp relieved at last light by 5Tp and 4Tp relieved 3Tp. Lt Troup and Cpl Sykes, dressed as labourers, got to the house mentioned previously; they took with them a 38 set in a basket and operated back to 2Tp. They returned at midday having seen nothing. 1 Tp engaged 6 enemy seen digging in and dispersed them.

D Sqn.
No movement seen. Lt Newton took over 4Tp. DR ambushed just South of OPHOVEN on main road at 0015 hours.

B Sqn.
4Tp left, 5Tp centre and 1Tp right.
Lt Flood did a foot patrol with his Maquis from the left position to D Sqn’s right. They found a dead civilian, badly mutilated, on the tow path but had to leave him as they were dressed as civilians. Div took a great interest in this find and we arranged for the body to be brought back by a night patrol.

D sq. 25 – 26th.
A quiet and uneventful time. Flood water reached many of the fields to the East of the river. General Lyne came to see us – having just taken the Div over from General Verney.

A Sqn.
Took over OPHOVEN position from D Sqn and the situation remained unchanged.

B Sqn.
At last light, Lt Flood and Eddie Minnens (the Maquis), Sgt Hughes and LCpl Malkinson left the dog position and moved North along the MAAS to get the body. They succeeded in getting the body back which was taken to Div HQ for a pathological report.

C Sqn.
At 1620 hours there was heavy shelling of the area of the town, a number of shells landing near SHQ but many of them were duds, and the rest did no damage except for the odd window broken.

A Sqn.
No further change in the situation.

B Sqn.
Lecture by the new Div General to all officers. Out of the line now.

D Sqn.
A Sqn took over and we moved back to the school.

A Sqn.
Patrols remained the same and the situation was quiet with an odd gun firing spasmodically. The front was taken over by 53rd Recce Regt and all Tps returned at last light to SHQ.

B Sqn.
Sgt McGuire presented with the ribbon of the MM by Field Marshal Sir Bernard L Montgomery, KCB DSO in BREE. The Colonel received the DSO at the same time.

D Sqn.
In reserve. Cleaned the vehicles.

C Sqn.
River level down again. At 1400 hours shelling of the town – near the guns – no damage. At 1600 hours the Sqn was relieved by 53rd Recce Regt. All Tps returned to SHQ by 1730 hours. A large shell, 150mm, landed in the Sqn area but there was no damage.

A Sqn.
In reserve carrying out maintenance and training.

B Sqn.
Orders to move to take over from the Guards Bde on the East of the MAAS. Had the bridge at MAESEYCK been open it would have enabled us to get to our new patrol position in 10 minutes; as it is, we have to travel 70 miles to get there.

D Sqn. 29 – 30th.
All officers attended a lecture by GOC at BREE – very good. On 30th, 53rd Recce Regt RHQ came to live with us.

C Sqn.
In reserve with the Regt.

A Sqn.

Sqn Ldr; Major J Turnbull MC	2i/c; Capt H Petch MC DCM
SSM; SSM Drew	SQMS; SQMS Lovatt

1Tp Lt A MacLean, Sgt Lewis
2Tp Lt DAF Williamson, Lt Morton, Sgt Pearce
3Tp Lt GH Hodgkinson, Sgt Short
4Tp Lt JDA Woodhouse, Sgt Atkinson
5Tp Lt P Newham, Sgt Murray
7Tp Lt KL Osborne, Sgt Turner

Sgt Jellis, who was evacuated from CAEN after receiving wounds from a bombing raid, returned to the Sqn in October. During one of the enemy stonks on OPHOVEN, Sgt Jellis who was a White Sect Comd was wounded in the right side by shrapnel and was evacuated.

B Sqn.
Move cancelled indefinitely; but we have handed over to 53rd Recce Regt and there were no Sqns operational.

C Sqn. 1 – 7th
Sqn remained in MAESEYCK. Did some training, having prepared for more, but much of this was cancelled by warnings to move, which in turn were cancelled.

A Sqn. 1 – 6th.
Sqn in reserve and carried out maintenance and training. On the 6th the Sqn moved to 632807 after D Sqn had moved to go into the line further South.

B Sqn.
Still in MAESEYCK. Small amount of training being done; getting cars and equipment up straight in view of the forthcoming move.

D Sqn. 1 – 5th.
In reserve at the school, carried out training and maintenance. We were threatened with a move almost daily. LCpl Williams Wynn had an interview with the GOC. A visit by General Horrocks, 30 Corps.

B Sqn.
Sqn Ldr did a recce with Major Lawson of our patrol positions to be taken over on the 7th. It was a maddening thought that we should have to drive 70 miles to get there, whereas, had the bridge over the MAAS not been blown, we could have walked there in 10 minutes.

1Tp Lt Nicholson, Sgt Wilkins, Cpl Hitchcock.
2Tp Lt Burridge, Sgt Ruder Lt Troup
3Tp Sgt McGuire, Lt Gibson, Cpl Evans.
4Tp Lt Flood, Sgt Trusswell, Cpl Mills
5Tp Lt Sivewright, Sgt Shakespeare, Cpl May
Lt Preston supernumerary.

Scout Tp Sgt Short, Cpl Hawkin, Cpl Sykes, Cpl Thacker, Sgt Hughes, Cpl Bagulaey.
75mm Tp Lt Young, Sgt Richmond, Sgt Edwards, Cpl Hodgson, Cpl Jenner
SHQ. Major Reid Scott and L/Sgt Allen, Capt Lovett and LCpl Byard. SSM Emery Sgt Hornsby

Echelon SQMS Smith, Sgt Freeman

659756 – AC and foot patrols
656758 – Foot patrol
663752 – Two foot patrols

B Sqn.
B & D Sqns and RHQ moved over to the East of the MAAS and took over from the 8th Hussars. RHQ were in PAPENHOVEN and B Sqn went to ILLIKHOVEN, preparatory to going to ROOSTEREN to take over a sector of the line.

D Sqn.
Took over from 8th Hussars at GEBROEK. Live at BUCHTEN. In the evening move over MAAS by the bridge at BERG. Much flood water. 4Tp with Cpl Rivers and LCpl Williams Wynn and LCpl Thomas ’92 (Cpl Rivers in the orchard SE of GEBROEK). Sundry sniping and MG fire from the enemy only 400 yards away. Late at night Tpr Hughes and Tpr Yeaman walked on a mine when taking food to Cpl Rivers section. Hughes leg was broken and Yeaman suffered from shrapnel in his arms.

A Sqn.
Remained at 632807.

B Sqn.
We took over the ROOSTEREN area from the 8th Hussars (B Sqn) at first light. SHQ and the B1 with 2Tp and 5Tp in reserve lived in the main street; 4Tp took over the left; 1Tp was in the centre and 3Tp on the right. Our area was the SW extremity of the German salient; to our North the line ran up the MAAS to VENLO and on our right SE to GEILENKIRCHEN. The Sqn was responsible for about 3000 yards of front with no defences except the canal whose bridges were blown.The Americans had arrived about 2 months previously and had been followed by the Irish Guards and the 8th Hussars. The only plan was for each patrol to form a strong point at night and endeavour to observe by day without being seen. The were practically no alternative positions but luckily the enemy was short of ammunition whereas our gunners and 75’s had plenty. We laid mines and wire in front of each patrol and hoped for the best.
With so many hours of darkness, night patrols were quite arduous with double guards. There was a gunner OP from the 5th RHA who occupied a tower in the town and had certain DF tasks, which he could bring down in front of our patrols anytime. Other than that we had no support, except for 40 Dutch OD men, who occupied certain posts at night, equipped with all manner of German weapons and were rationed by us.
In the course of the day we practised the gunner DF tasks, and made some for our own 75’s and fired them. The gunners say that a DF nearer to our Tps than 400 yards is dangerous, but with the 75’s we got one in front of 4Tp to within 100 yards of the Tp position.
Apart from a few rifle shots from OUD ROOSTEREN the day was quiet although 4Tp was told some hair-raising stories from the 8th Hussars. In the night there was the odd ground flare over the canal. The officers had a good champagne party to celebrate Lt Burridge’s and Lt Preston’s birthdays.

D Sqn. 7 – 10th.
Patrols at GEBROEK. Nothing to report. Taken over by C Sqn on the 10th. Very muddy. At BUCHTEN.

C Sqn.
Sqn moved South and crossed R. MAAS at BERG and billeted in GREVENBICHT.

A Sqn.
The Sqn moved South ready to relieve B Sqn. We moved to a village called ILLIKHOVEN which was nearly empty of civilians as the Germans had taken most of them away.

B Sqn.
2Tp relieved 4Tp on the left, 1Tp remained in the centre and 5Tp relieved 3Tp on the right. The telephone wires were in a shambles and it took 2 days to sort them out; even the best operators made small mistakes in operating the telephones and the wires.
The day was quiet but when it got dark, 1Tp Scout sect, Cpl Hawkin, advanced to the lock and spent the night in a slit trench on the bank only 30 yards from the enemy the other side; the lock bridge was blown but Infantry could climb across still, on a plank. Complete silence was essential and it was very cold and wet.

B & A Sqns alternated in four day shifts in ILLIKHOVEN and ROOSTEREN. In the latter position patrols were maintained at 662784, with an OP 200 yards North, at 658777 and in the chateau at 655755. Both these latter patrols sent dismounted sects to the canal bank at intervals. ROOSTEREN was thus guarded against any enemy attempts to cross the canal from OUD ROOSTEREN or to penetrate down the gap between the MAAS and the JULIANA canal.
On Dec 10th, the dismounted patrol of the centre position of B Sqn, was engaged by mortar fire from the East of the canal. Lt Preston, Tpr Mercer and Tpr Williams were wounded, fortunately none very severely. After this dismounted patrols were NOT sent forward to the canal bank, except for special purposes.
The defences were being thickened up by mines and wire continually. Unfortunately, on Dec 19th, Sgt Pearce of A Sqn set off one of these and was severely injured. Apart from this, and the routine observation of movement of small parties if Infantry in OUD ROOSTEREN there was nothing to report on this sector in this period.
On our right C & D Sqns alternated in the line in 4 day shifts, both operating from BUCHTEN in positions already given. The Americans had laid a number of mines in the area of GEBROEK and had left no plans behind. As a result, on Dec 7th Tpr Hughes ’82 and Tpr Yeaman were wounded and later on the 23rd Tpr Mitchell was also hurt.
Apart from this, little could be seen from the patrol positions. An AP minefield was laid to cover all approaches to GEBROEK from the North. On Dec 20th at about 1330 hours, an enemy recce patrol, estimated 6-8 strong, approached the position from the North, and on being engaged went to ground about 100 yards from our patrol, just beyond the mines. They were engaged heavily by our guns and those of K Bty, the Colonel observing for the 75’s in person from the pillbox at 652759. Two enemy were wounded and recovered by their medics, and one corpse yielded the identification of GAF Sigs, and next morning was taken away by the enemy in a Wheelbarrow.

C Sqn.
Remained same area.

A Sqn. 9 – 10th.
Remained same area.

B Sqn.
4Tp relieved 2Tp on the left, 3Tp relieved 5Tp on the right. Sgt Hornsby made up a scratch half-Tp with B1 personnel and did the comparatively safe day patrol in the centre. 2Tp had been shot at spasmodically during the night, by long range MG fire. There was the odd firing by small arms in the day which brought down a load of shells from our 75’s and gunners each time. In the evening 1Tp took over from Sgt Hornsby for the night.

B Sqn.
2Tp again changed round with 4Tp and 5Tp changed with 3Tp. SSM Emery insisted on doing a patrol in the centre, at the same time instructing some young soldiers on his car and giving the Sqn Clerks (Tpr Raynes and Tpr Jessop) a chance to say that they had been on patrol; the house from which the SSM OP’d is called to this day “Emery’s House”.
In the evening 1Tp, who had done 3 tricky night patrols running, went to the chateau on the right and 5Tp took over the centre for the night. Lt Preston, Sgt Shakespeare, Cpl May, Tpr Mercer and Tpr Williams had trouble with the telephone wires which lead to their trench, and soon after getting into position, were shot at by an 88mm with air-bursts and after with a spandau only 75 yards away. It looked as though they had either been seen or heard on the canal bank, and Lt Preston was ordered to withdraw a little.
Almost immediately while withdrawing under cover of a high bank, 15 mortar shells arrived amongst them, the last one wounding Lt Preston in the ankle, Tpr Mercer in his right leg, which was broken, and Tpr Williams slightly in the leg. It was a bit of bad luck; Mercer had been in the Sqn for 2 ½ years and had done well as a first driver; Lt Preston was “a gallant old man” and Tpr Williams had just joined us. All three were well attended to at once by Cpl Baguley and Tpr Raynes and were quickly evacuated from under the very nose of the enemy, by the Doctor (Capt JH Balmer) who arrived soon with Capt Churton. Sgt McGuire with 3Tp was turned out to relieve 5Tp for the rest of the night, which was quiet.

A Sqn.
Moved to ROOSTEREN to take over from B Sqn. Our role was to defend the village and prevent the enemy from crossing the canal into the village. Also to prevent the enemy from coming down from the North through the gap between the MAAS and the Juliana canal at 668790. B Sqn had 3 patrols out which we took over.
By 0800 hours we had taken over completely. During the day very little happened. The patrols saw a few men on the East of the canal which were engaged by our 75’s.
At 1200 hours some Maquis went up to 4Tp to collect a Dutchman who had tried to get through our lines the night before but had been blown up on a mine. When they got to him he was dead. There were 43 Maquis in ROOSTEREN under command of the Sqn. There was also an OP – Capt Armitage – from 5th RHA who was responsible for the DF tasks and harassing fire. At night 1Tp sent his Scout sect to a position in a house 100 yards from the canal.

B Sqn. 11 – 14th.
B Sqn was relieved by A Sqn and we went back for 4 days rest to ILLIKHOVEN which is 2 miles South of ROOSTEREN. The Sqn Ldr and Cpl May went off in the jeep to see the wounded and eventually reached the 83rd General Hospital at HASSELT five minutes before Lt Preston and Tpr Mercer were lifted out of their ambulance; we greeted them as though we lived in the hospital.
Our 4 days were spent in hot baths which were easily procured in a local colliery near SITTARD. Some cinema shows and a general clean up and sort out. A new draft of 6 men arrived who were welcomed, as we were very short due to leave and courses. Training was done. Capt Lovett went on leave and looked better for it. Lt Burridge did 2i/c and Lt Troup commanded 2Tp.

D Sqn. 11 – 14th.
In reserve. Training at BUCHTEN. Still very wet and muddy. Take over from C Sqn in the evening of the 14th. 2Tp to GEBROEK.

A Sqn.
2Tp took over from 4Tp, 5Tp from 3Tp and 3Tp from 1Tp. Nothing unusual happened during the day.

A Sqn. 13 – 14th.
The Tps changed over every morning before first light and nothing happened during these days except reveille on the 14th which was blown by a large explosion very close, which turned out to be the Germans re-blowing the bridge over the canal.

A Sqn.
Handed over to B Sqn before first light and moved back into rest at ILLIKHOVEN.

B Sqn.
We took over ROOSTEREN again from A Sqn with the same patrol positions. 3Tp left, 2Tp centre and 5Tp right. A quiet day with little spandau fire from OUD ROOSTEREN.

D Sqn. 15 – 17th.
Cold and frost starts. Nothing to report from GEBROEK. Two Me 263 fly over during the day and planes continue all night over the area bombing and strafing but none near us. This activity heralding their new offensive in the ARDENNES.

B Sqn.
1Tp relieved 3Tp on the left, 4Tp relieved 2Tp on the right and in the centre Sgt Hornsby with his cluster of beginners took over the OP in the rafters of 5Tp’s chateau; 5Tp preferred to stay put for their days rest and not come to SHQ.Everyday we used the 75’s – without mention of whom – the war diary would be very incomplete. We began to experiment with some new air-burst ammunition and found it most effective against over-bold Germans sticking their heads out of slit trenches. Lt Flood swears he could read “Afrika Korps” on one Germans tin hat; this man should obviously have been killed off by now according to the law of averages.
At about midday it appeared that a sniper had had the brass neck to venture over to our side of the lock into the ruined lock house. Lt Flood with Cpl Thacker and his sect set out to investigate but the bird had flown.
The remainder of the day was quiet except for the draw for leave in January. 23 out of 86 names were the lucky ones drawn by the head lady of the ROOSTEREN Red Cross, who ‘had’ not one word of English. She wore glasses and was very plain, in spite of strict instructions from the Sqn Ldr to the SSM to pick the best looker in the place. Perhaps the SSM had lost his torch.
5Tp took over the night duties at the chateau and except for the usual flares and odd shots, the night was quiet. It is a funny kind of war for the PAO’s.

A Sqn. 19 – 22nd.
Moved to ROOSTEREN and took over from B Sqn. The patrols were the same and very little happened during the 4 days we were there.
On the 19th, the enemy landed 10 shells in ROOSTEREN but did no damage.
Lt Woodhouse went out and laid AP mines in the gap between the MAAS and the canal.
Lt Williamson was on leave and Sgt Pearce took over his Tp while he was away.
On the 22nd , while Sgt Pearce was on patrol, he unfortunately walked down a track on which B Sqn had laid an AP mine, which he knew about, but which for the moment he forgot. The mine went off and badly wounded him. The doctor got to him within 15 minutes and sent him straight to the FDS. He was hit in the right leg and was badly shocked; the doctor feared he would lose his leg. Lt Morton, who was in the Tp under instruction, took it over until Lt Williamson got back.

B Sqn.
A Sqn relieved us and we returned to rest at ILLIKHOVEN. We lost 7 fine NCOs and men who were due to return to England after 5 years abroad. They were: Sgt Spencer,    Sgt Short,    LCpl Willetts,    LCpl Morris ’91,    Tpr Keen,    Tpr Waister,    Tpr Leach ’92.
It is hard to spare such chaps.
The rest of the day was spent in cleaning up and sorting out. The Sqn Ldr and Major Grant Thorold, who had arrived the night before from England to take over the Sqn, visited RHQ. Major Reid Scott was returning to England to go on a course at the Staff College, much to his disgust. The Sqn will miss him very much. An Officers Mess was started, a Dutch woman and he daughter doing the cooking.

D Sqn. 19 – 22nd.
In reserve at BUCHTEN. Training on mortar, but map reading curtailed by fog which persisted all the period. A few shells landed on the eastern end of BUCHTEN in the afternoon of the 20th. Take over from C Sqn on 22nd. 1Tp laid mines and wire round North side of GEBROEK.

B Sqn.
The Scout Tp carried out training on the 3” mortar which had been added to the Regt’s weapons. Major Grant Thorold took over command of the Sqn. Lt Young was selected to go on a 95mm howitzer course in England.

C Sqn.
Very foggy morning. An RE inspected GEBROEK area with the object of laying AP mines and erecting wire fences. This was started on.
1615 and 1630 hours. Single Germans seen walking area 667791 – engaged. 4Tp went to GEBROEK and 1Tp to Bank. A few verey lights and trip flares before midnight.

B Sqn.
Mortar training continued and SHQ did some Sten gun firing. The whole Sqn assembled in the afternoon to wish Major Reid Scott the best of luck and to drink his health. There was also a farewell party in the Officers Mess which lasted well into the early hours of the morning.

B Sqn.
Major Reid Scott left for OSTEND with Lt Young who was going on his course. The Sqn Ldr visited A Sqn during the morning and went round the patrol positions. Firing with the 3” mortar took place in the afternoon and the Colonel came and watched.

A Sqn.
B Sqn took over from us and we went back to ILLIKHOVEN.

B Sqn.
Just before first light the Sqn took over from A Sqn at ROOSTEREN. There was very little reported all day. A few odd rifle shots and MG fire being the most that could be produced. Sounds of SA fire near the tunnel to the NE were engaged by our 75’s during the afternoon.
A minefield had been laid in front of 5Tp position by A Sqn and it was decided to put some dannert wire along our side of it. Two RE’s instructed some of the Scout Tp how to do it and a party under Sgt Gibson was sent out to do the job at 1730 hours. The night was uneventful.

D Sqn. 23 – 25th.
GEBROEK quiet. Very heavy frost at night. Mines and wiring completed by 3Tp, 4Tp and 5Tp who took over Xmas night.

A Sqn.
Sqn moved down to JABHEEK. Our role down there was to remain concentrated in the village, but if the enemy attacked in that area we had to send out patrols to observe and also delay the enemy as much as possible. For this we had a Tp of 17pdrs under command, and came ourselves under command 131 Bde. We had Lt Wheeler with the 52nd Div on our right as an LO to keep us informed of any thing happening on their left. He lived with the 5th KOSB.

B Sqn.
The night was very cold and there was a sharp frost. There was nothing of interest reported during the day. Soon after dark there was some movement of HDT on the other side of the canal, probably supplies arriving for the Germans at OUD ROOSTEREN.
From about 2200 hours onwards, there was quite a lot of noise in OUD ROOSTEREN. The Germans appeared to be having a party and were singing and shouting. We did not mind them having a party but considered they were too noisy so gave them a few rounds from the guns. There was also a man who appeared to be making a speech to his men, exhalting them to fight and die for the Feuhrer and all the usual stuff. The singing went on intermittently till about 0300 hours. A PoW who was captured later said that all the noise was caused by a party of drunks and was not an attempt to put propaganda over to us.

B Sqn.
Christmas Day. As we were in the line we had decided to celebrate on the 28th when we should be in rest. However, most of the troops had managed to get extra food (the chicken population of ROOSTEREN must have gone down considerably in the last day or two) and had a special Christmas dinner. There were a few rifle shots from the other side but the day was quiet, probably as many of the enemy had hangovers. Capt Hildyard from Div HQ came over in the afternoon and gave a lecture on the battle situation in the South. The situation appears to be improving.

B Sqn.
At about 0500 hours, gunfire and spandau was heard to our right. This continued until about 0730 hours. It was learnt that the Germans had attacked GEBROEK, where two Tps of D Sqn were. They overran GEBROEK but the Tps got out with only minor casualties, although some vehicles were lost. 4Tp relieved 3Tp and 1Tp relieved 5Tp. As the enemy were now in GEBROEK, 3Tp was sent to a position at 649758 just outside ILLIKHOVEN, to watch the canal in case the enemy attempted to cross and reach the MAAS.
In the meantime, a counter attack was being prepared to retake GEBROEK. Just as this was going in, a few shells burst round 3Tp, one landing on the house which they were behind, killing Tpr Brown, who was Sgt McGuire’s driver. This was very bad luck as they were unobserved and they must have been ‘overs’ from the GEBROEK battle. Tps reported seeing some V2 rockets being fired during the morning.
The Sqn Ldr was called to a conference at RHQ where the changeover between A Sqn (now at JABHEEK) was arranged. Two Tps of A Sqn arrived at ROOSTEREN during the afternoon and 3Tp and 5Tp went to JABHEEK. The remainder of the relief was to be on the following morning.
At 1840 hours, a German crossed the canal near the lock and, carefully avoiding the mines, was taken prisoner by 4Tp. He then stated that ROOSTEREN was going to be attacked by three Coys of Infantry from the NE, either that night or the following. Tps were stood to and reserve Tps moved into positions from which they could quickly reinforce any Tp. There were several scares during the night but the attack never took place.
At about 0300 hours another German was taken prisoner. He was actually an escaped PoW and had swum across the MAAS with two others who he stated had drowned. He arrived at Sgt Hornsby’s position which was at the back of the village. His clothes were frozen stiff and he was in a bad way. His clothes were taken off and he was given a civilian suit which was found in the house. A very cold and tedious night gradually came to an end and the threatened attack never developed.

D Sqn.
At 0545 hours GEBROEK was attacked. A small party, presumably a feint, went on to the minefield to the North after the barrage of some 30 rounds from some 4 – 6 88’s. soon afterwards mortaring and MG fire started coming in from the SE and Infantry, approx 30 strong, closed in on the village. Due to 12 degrees of frost, none of the cars would start and the K gun magazines froze up inside.
Lt D’Arcy, K Bty 5th RHA OP, got all the DF tasks going and shot one German in the stomach before leaving his tank which was frozen in. Sgt Luke mustered his Tp and Cpl Cairns and Cpl Rivers Scout sections and the B1 Scout section and, when the Germans were right among them, withdrew to the broken bridge where 3Tp was. Sgt Bruerton shot one German and Tpr Heyward shot another. Sgt Luke and Tpr Hunter were slightly wounded but were not evacuated. Tpr Chalmers and Tpr Reeve were slightly wounded and evacuated.
As soon as Sgt Luke was clear we let go with the 75’s and all 5th RHA on GEBROEK itself, with 13 HAC and the two medium outfits on OUD ROOSTEREN, DIETEREN and SUSTEREN. At 1030 hours a Tp of 8th Hussars worked back to a deserted GEBROEK and 3Tp took over.
Our cars which we had had to leave were ok except for 1 WSC which was burnt out. Practically everything was intact except the rations and 3 Germans (dead) including an SSM. Eight personal arms were also found and a percentage of clothing. The attack came from the SE where there was no wire or mines and just as the moon went down.
We learnt for this sort of job, nothing can be moved and strong points must be formed with mines and wire and ditches and held against all comers. The whole thing must be changed to an Infantry role. However the enemy suffered fairly heavily for his project and gained little. C Sqn took over in the evening and we moved to OBBICHT.

A Sqn. 27 – 28th.
Went back to ROOSTEREN and took over from B Sqn. 3Tp and 5Tp went on the night of the 26th so as to take over the left and centre at first light. The rest of the Sqn moved up early next morning with Capt Petch, while the Sqn Ldr remained to hand over to B Sqn.
At ROOSTEREN, the canal had frozen over so that the enemy could walk over when they wanted, so we put in another patrol at 658780, which meant we had 4 patrols out by day, and we put in another round ROOSTEREN itself at night. This made it a very tiring sector of the line and we were only left there for 2 nights and 3 days.
The night before we arrived (26th), a deserter came across the canal and said that three companies of Infantry were going to attack ROOSTEREN that night or the next, so everyone was on their toes. But during our stay nothing happened and all was very quiet.
We had some RE’s up who laid a lot of AP mines and we laid wire, so by the time we left, the whole place was mined and wired in. The only thing that happened was that a baby was born in ROOSTEREN. This kept up the average as it meant that one had been born each time we did our tour in the village.

B Sqn.
Just before first light the two A Sqn Tps took over and at about 0900 hours Capt Petch arrived with another Tp. SHQ and 1Tp and 4Tp and the B1 left for JABHEEK leaving 2Tp to follow. On arrival the Tps settled into billets and the Sqn Ldr recced the new area with Major Turnbull. We had no commitments unless there was a flap when certain roads had to be patrolled. The Sqn was now under command 131 Bde.

D Sqn. 27 – 30th.
In reserve at OBBICHT. Getting things straight again. Xmas Day was celebrated on the 28th and everyone had a good time. SHQ & B1 formed a band – Tpr Wright plays the piano very well. The ice was thick and quite a number went skating in the afternoon.

B Sqn.
Today was a holiday and we were celebrating Christmas. The SSM, officers and Sgts spent most of the day organising the dinner for the men in the evening. The dinner, and an impromptu concert afterwards, was a great success, chiefly due to the great efforts of SSM Emery. An inter-Tp competition, 6 men singing a song, was held and won by 4Tp. Individual turns were then given. Tpr Messenger got first prize, but all competitors, including Eddie the Maquis, got a prize of some sort though Capt Lovett inadvertently gave the SSM’s cigarettes and matches to LCpl Clarke; it was afterwards discovered that there were only 2 cigarettes in the packet.

A Sqn.
Handed over to C Sqn and moved to ILLIKHOVEN. Had 2 patrols out – one at 653759, which was 24 hour, and one at 654774 which only stayed out for the night.

B Sqn.
Maintenance of cars and monthly inspections carried out. A dance was organised for the evening and although the band arrived late it was well attended and a great success. The SSM again excelled himself by his terrific enthusiasm and energy, both in the organisation and running of the dance.

A Sqn.
Remained at ILLIKHOVEN with one patrol out all day and 2 at night.

B Sqn.
It had snowed a little during the night and more snow fell at intervals during the day. We had expected to move the next day but heard in the evening that we would not move till 1st Jan.

B Sqn.
Another dance was organised to celebrate New Years Eve. This was even better attended, especially by the civilians. There was a certain amount of air activity during the night and some bombs fell in the area.

D Sqn.
Take over ROOSTEREN from C Sqn and all Tps out in position. Thicken up the wiring.

Roll of Personnel awarded decorations from 1 Jan 44 to 31 Dec 44.

Lt Colonel	W Wainman MC	DSO
Lt	OM Wentworth Stanley	MC
Lt	GH Newton	MC
Lt	DA Creaton	MC (since KIA)
Lt	PF Chapman	MC
Lt	JAM Cousins	MC (posthumous award)
L/Sgt	L Davies	MM
Tpr	R Pritchett	MM
Sgt	B McGuire	MM

All of the above were won for actions in the BLA Theatre of Operations.

List of Officers with the Regiment as at 31st Dec 1944

RHQ.
Lt Col	W Wainman DSO MC	CO
Major	JCAD Lawson DSO MC	2i/c
Major	HC Roberts	Sqn Ldr
Capt	GV Churton MBE MC
Capt	JA Friend
Capt	RR Lockett MC	Adjt
Capt	E Chadwick MBE	QM
Lt	EK Brown
Lt	JS Champion	SO
Lt	RAK MacAllan	IO
Lt	JRCG Wheeler	LO
Major	AVC Robarts
Capt	JH Balmer (RAMC)	RMO
Lt	EDA Jones MBE (REME)	EME

C Sqn. Major WV Burdon MC Capt RE Wingfield Digby MC Capt JR Ballingal MC Lt RN Brett Smith Lt J Gale Lt VV Esch 2Lt CJ Markham 2Lt EA Pearson	A Sqn Major J Turnbull MC Capt H Petch MC DCM Lt JDA Woodhouse Lt DAF Williamson Lt KL Osborne Lt GH Hodgkinson Lt PA Newnham 2Lt Armd Div MacLean 2Lt JB Morton
B Sqn Major RMHM Grant Thorold MC Capt GJ Lovett Lt JD Burridge Lt RA Flood Lt ATR Nicholson Lt RCT Sivewright Lt IG Troup Lt EAI Young 2Lt CB Gibson	D Sqn Major JAN Crankshaw MC Capt T O’B. Horsford MC Lt RE Alton Lt NCD Campbell Lt RH Moore Lt S Gurteen Lt M Hickman Lt GH Newton MC Lt AS Hunter Lt GL Nation Tellery

Summary of Personnel Killed in Action, Wounded, Missing and Escaped PoW

KIA	37, Of these, 11 died of wounds received.
Wounded	90
Missing	6, Of these, 2 are known to be wounded.
Escaped PoW	5
Known PoW	4
Missing, believed PoW	2