I am currently in correspondence with Anthony Beevor about his latest book "D Day and the Battle of Normandy" My Regiment had three battalions in Normandy, but Mr Beevor dosn't mention any of them! Even in the index. I affirm that the 1st & 5/7th landed on D Day he says he can find no reference to them re D Day. Can anyone point me to a definate reference to them landing on D Day?
Hi Trevor and welcome to the forum....From your post I'm guessing you was there on the big day? I'm sure some members will be able to help you out. Regards Andy
I have the 51st Divisional History by JB Salmond in front of me, page 139. 153 Bde landed on afternoon of D-day. 153rd Infantry Brigade (1940-1945) 5th Battalion, The Black Watch 1st Battalion, The Gordon Highlanders 5/7th Battalion, The Gordon Highlanders
More info on this website. 51 Highland Division Website : History The Role of 51st Highland Division. The role of the 51st Highland Division in the landing was as a second echelon division to support and fill in behind the first wave. 153 Bde would be the lead brigade of 51st Highland Division. They landed in the afternoon of D Day. On 5th June (D-1), Commander 153 Brigade, with the Battalion Seconds in Command, had gone to Portsmouth where they would sail ahead of the main body to mark the out the Brigadedeployment. However their ship was unable to land and on D daythe main body sailed passed them near enough for Murray to shout to Lieutenant Colonel Thompson, in temporary command of the Brigade, that he on landing he should contact the Canadians. They landed without opposition on the afternoon of D Day.
153rd bde did not engage in combat immediatly in Normandy. They ended up fighting in the triangle. BYDAND !
Am just on my way back from Normandy and may have the War Diaries of these units on my HDD; will check when I am home.
This is where the official histories let researchers down. My Father in 5th Camerons landed D-DAY. about 12 hours early (152 BRIGADE) but there is no mention of this anywhere. He landed with a load of Canadians.
Resurrecting an old thread. My great uncle served with the 1Bn. Gordon Highlanders and was killed in Normandy in August 1944 during the Allied breakout towards Caen. I would like to know more about the regiments involvement in operations during this time. It's difficult to find detailed information from online sources.
I am trying to find out some information about officers and men of 1st Battalion and 5th/7th Battalion, The Gordon Highlanders. In particular, I would be interested to find out the names of officers of both battalions c.1943-44, and about any awards of MC and MM. Any related photos would also be of interest. With this in mind, I wondered if anyone has the war diaries for these battalions and know of any related photographs, and might be able to assist? Any help welcome!
