2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards War Diary 1941-1945

Index Page (currently under development)
Jan 1941
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov: temporarally missing
Dec: temporarally missing

Jan 1942
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sep
Oc
Nov
Dec

Jan 1943
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Jan 1944
Feb
Mar
April
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Jan 1945
Feb
Mar
Apr
may
Jun

 

War diary 1941.

1st Jan.
Captain Britton takes over Command of No 4 Coy on Captain Pickrington going to the Holding Bn. Heavy fall of snow and hard frost. 3 Coy unable to do assault boating. 2 Lt J Rickards and 2 Lt W L Basundale joined the Bn and went to 4 and 2 Coys respectively.

2 Jan.
‘Spray alert’ week cancelled owing to frost. HQ Coy assault boating cancelled.

3 Jan.
Major Sir Turner Falkiner goes on leave prior to going to senior officers course. Captain the Lord Devon now commanding. No 3 Coy MO returns off leave. Assault boats returned having only been used by two companies owing to the weather.

4 Jan.
CO returns off 7 days privilege leave. 2 Lt Skimming attended a one day course at Louth on bomb disposal. 2 Lt Blow returned off a short mortar course. Pilot Officer Wilson ended his one week’s attachment to No 3 Coy.

5 Jan.
CO lectured to all officers in the mess at 17.30 hrs on ‘Confined Operations’.

6 Jan.
1st Divisional exercise for ‘R’ groups started this evening, 1700 hrs at Lincoln. CO and 2 L Hon PL Kindersley attended.

7 Jan.
Nothing to report. The Drillers practiced for church service the following Sunday.

8 Jan.
1st Divisional exercise finished. 2 l/c president of a FCCM in Louth. There was a lecture in the canteen at Brocklesbury at 2pm by M P G Rogers on ‘What does Mussolini want?’ All Coy commanders watched the 2nd Hampshires practicing with mock up ALC’s at South Elkington.

9 Jan.
1st Divisional TEWT for 2 l/c at Spilsby. CO visited 7th Lincolns and 8th North Staffs in pm.

10 Jan.
Major Hill returns from Pirbright. Captain Adeane granted privilege leave. No 1 Company practiced with mock up at ALC’s at South Eckrington.

11 Jan.
No 2 Company practiced with ALC’s. No 3 Company drill parade at 0920 hrs.

12 Jan.
A Bn mess meeting was held at Brocklesby. Company 2 l/cs took over the job of CQMSi for 1 week.

13 Jan.
Week g ‘stand to’ and ‘action stations’. 3 and 4 Coys practiced with ALC’s. A practice fire alarm at Brocklesby at 1545 hrs.

14 Jan.
A bn exercise was held in the vicinity of Immingham docks. 2 l/c commanded and the CO directed.

15 Jan.
HQ practiced with ALC’s. There was a conference at 1800 hrs in the canteen Brocklesbury on the Bn scheme. All officers and sergeants attended.

16 Jan
Nothing to report. The CO had a conference in the orderly room at 1815 hrs prior to the Bde scheme on the 17th.

17 Jan
1st Guards Bde exercises. 2 l/c reported to Bde as umpire for Home Forces exercises. Captain Adeane returned off leave in the evening.

18 Jan
Nothing to report. 2 l/c conference in York cancelled.

19 Jan
A heavy fall of snow and strong winds of previous evening had blocked all roads. The church service at Brocklesbury was cancelled owing to the Rev Greenhill being marooned at Limber. There were drifts of 6’ high on Caister Limber road. The Commanding Officer with carrier escort carried out a recce in the afternoon. No1 company at Caister was completely cut off.

20 Jan
The whole Bn turned on to road clearing, each company having a definite task. The Great waters ranges had been allotted to No 1 Company but were of no use to them. All Coys except No 1 Coy were able to have their rations delivered. No 1 Coy had to provide carrying parties.

21 Jan
Snow still lying heavily everywhere, all outside training is still curtailed. The Commanding Officer lectured to No 2 Company at Limber at 2pm. Mail came through from Bde for the first time since the 18th.

22 Jan
2 Lt Windsor Clive lectured No 3 Company at 1530 hrs at Laceby. The Great XXXX XXXX still allotted to the Bn, win of course.

23 Jan
2 Lt Crowder lectured the Home Guard at Lincoln at 1500 hrs. The Commanding Officer lectured HQ Company in the afternoon. Major Hill granted 7 days privilege leave.

24 Jan
The Bn exercises fixed for the 24th were cancelled owing to the roads still being ice bound.

25 Jan
Nothing to report. The move to the training camp in Scotland was postponed.

26 Jan
Church services as usual.

27 Jan
A lecture in Louth at 1400 hrs on Field General Courts Martial. The Commanding Officer lectured all officers in Battle Drill in officers mess at 1815 hrs.

28 Jan
A short Bn exercise was carried out in the morning in the vicinity of Swallow Vale. It was further curtailed by snow.

29 Jan
There was a Bde MT drive in the afternoon all available MT from the BN took part.

30 Jan
Training as usual. 2 Lt Palmer was granted 7 days privilege leave.

31 Jan
The following changes among officers took place during the month.
To HQ Coy as IO 2Lt L Downay
To 1 Coy 2 Lt Hon L Kindersley
To 3 Coy Capt the Earl Devon
To 4 Coy from Bde anti tank company Lt Hon G Downay
L (or 2) OC XXXX 2 Lt R C Windsor-Clive

Other changes au CSM Kirk left the Bn on January 9th to be Drill Sergeant to the Training Bn and CSM Laurence became CSM of No 1 Company. Sgt J Curry took over command of the Bde protective platoon on 14th Jan.

Appendices
1) 2 Coldstream Gds Exercise no 7 41-1-41
2) 1st Gds Bde Exercise no 4 17-1-41.

 

War diary
February 1941

Feb 1.
Drill parade carried out by companies as usual. Major A F Sinclair lectured to all officers in the officer’s mess at Brocklesby on Regimental History. The drummer’s annual competition took place afterwards.

Feb 2.
Church services as usual. The drums played for the church service at Brocklesby assisted by Major A F Sinclair.

Feb 3.
No 1 Company were allotted great coats larges. Commanding officer attended a conference at Brigade Headquarters at 1530 hrs on the Training Camp in Scotland.

Feb 4
Great coats larges (ranges?) accord to No 4 company. The advance party together with the Commanding Officer and Intelligence Officer left for the training camp in Scotland by train from Brocklesby. 2 Lt P L Kindersley took over Quarter Master owing to Lt M Jones going to hospital.

Feb 5
Snow fell again during the night of 4/5 and No 1 Company at Caistor were again cut off. The battalion left for the Glasgow training camp in the afternoon. The went from Brocklesby station on three trains. Two personell trains and one MT train. Strength of Battalion was 30 officers. 750 other ranks. Captain Adams and MTO were left in charge of the rear parties at Brocklesby.

Feb 6.
The Bn arrived in Scotland. The first train consisting of the five rifle companies with Major Hill in command detrained at Greenock and went on board ‘The maid of Orleans’. The second and third trains consisting Bn Headquarters and the motor transport arrived at Dalmally stn, the Bn Headquarters train arriving approximately 1130 hrs and the motor transport train one hour later. Bn Headquarters and the MT the proceeded to Inverary, the former going on board HMT Ettrick and the latter going into a camp at Inverary.

Feb 7.
The remainder of the Bns arrived at Inverary and came on board the Ettrick.

Feb 8.
The 2nd Hampshires also on board Ettrick. The day was spent in allotting A L Cs to companies and training in embarking. Troops very crowded on the mess decks.

Feb 9.
The Bn practiced a landing in the afternoon. Loch was fairly rough and troops got very wet. A Commanding Officer’s conference in the music room in the evening at 2130 hrs.
Feb 10.
The Bn practiced embarking in ALCs before light. The exercise lasted from 0600 hrs to 0800 hrs.

Feb 11.
The Bn carried out a landing exercise; this was a rehearsal for the big exercise of the 13th.

Feb 12.
The day was spent on board Ettrick. The Commanding Officer had his final conference on the Brigade exercise at 1400 hrs.

Feb 13.
The Bn took part in 1st Guards Brigade landing exercise. The exercise finished at approximately midday. The Bn then marched from Loch Fyne to Arrochar via the Rest and Be Thankful Pass. They were billeted that night in Arrochar.

Feb 14.
The Bn left Arrochar in the afternoon and entrained for Brocklesby. The Bn was allotted two trains, the first of which arrived at Brocklesby at approximately 0500 hrs 15/2/41. The carriers entrained at Crianlarich and the rest of the MT went by road.

under the command of 2 Lt SIS Howard-Stepney. They spent three nights on the way arriving at Brocklesby on Monday Feb 17th.

15 Feb.
The day was spent in settling into billets after the return from Scotland. There were several sick in the Bn, more than there had been for a very considerable time. They were mostly cases of flu some of which had to be left behind in the hospital at Inverary.

16 Feb.
Church services as usual. All snow had completely disappeared from the area.

17 Feb.
Training again as usual. Nothing to report.

18 Feb.
HQ, 3 and 4 Coys had drill parades.

19 Feb.
Headquarters Company were allowed great coats ranges. All company commanders reconnoitered the new company concentration areas in and around Brocklesby Park. Lt Hon G Daunay granted 7 days privilege leave.

20 Feb.
No 4 Company was allotted great coats ranges. 2 Lt RM Chaplin was granted 7 days privilege leave. Captain C Harford joined the Battalion and was posted to Headquarters Company. Severe enemy bombing in South.

21 Feb.
Another fairly heavy fall of snow on the 20/21st.
A battalion exercise was carried out in the area Swallow Vale.

22 Feb.
Drill parades as usual. Nothing to report.
There was heavy bombing in the evening round Harborough.

23 Feb.
Church services as usual. The drums again played in Brocklesby church for the service.

24 Feb.
Owing to snow the Brigade MT drive was cancelled. The commanding officer attended a conference at Brigade Headquarters at 1500 hrs.

25 Feb.
There was a commanding officers conference at Battalion Headquarters at 0930 hrs. Afterwards the commanding officer visited all company concentration areas. Captain Felden was granted 7 days privilege leave.

26 Feb.
The Battalion took part in a three day 1st Divisional exercise. There was a day of ‘Stand To’ and the Battalion remained in its concentration area round Brocklesby park.

27 Feb.
The second day of the Divisional exercise. The Battalion moved by combined MT and march route to an area south of Swallow. The exercise was called off in the middle of the afternoon.

28 Feb.
A commanding officer’s conference was held in the mess room at Battalion headquarters on ‘Debussing’. All officers and sergeants attended.

List of Appendices.
1) Move to Scotland 7.2.41
2) 1st Guards Bde Landing Exercise rehearsal.
3) 1st Guards Bde Landing Exercise.

 

War diary March 1941 part 1

1 March
Drill parades as usual. All ensigns attended at Brocklesby. Lieut C FitzHubert is attached to the Battalion for a week from the Training Battalion, he goes to No 2 Company.

2 March
Captain the Viscount Long arrives to take over adjutantcey from Captain The Master of Sinclair. A Hampden bomber crashed near North Kilsey, all the crew killed. The remains of the aircraft are being guarded by No 1 Company.

3 March
Captain C Harford takes over HQ Coy from Captain M Adeane who goes to command No 3 Company. The Commanding Officer goes to York on a three day MT course.

4 March
Captain de Knoop went to No 2 Coy as 2 l/c 2nd Lt Howard Stepney took over the MT.

5 March
Coys carried out debussing and training as usual. The Regtl Band played at a Sergeant’s dance in Keelby village hall.

6 March
Captain The Master of Sinclair left for the 1st TSU. 2 Lt IEB Skimming reported to the 91st HAA Bty to advise on ground defence. The Regimental band played at a concert and dance for the 3rd Bn Grenadiers and the 2nd Bn the Hampshire Regt in Louth.

7 March
2 Lt FP Crowder went to Catterick on a Signal Course. The Regtl Band played at a Corporal’s dance in Keelby village hall. Coys carried out Debussing and assault boat training.

8 March
Work as usual. Rain caused the Drill Parade to be cancelled for the first time since we came here. Captain the Viscount Long retired to bed with flu and was temporally relieved by X L Dawnay.

9 March
Church in the morning. Music by the Regimental band. A cocktail party in the Officer’s Mess in the evening. 120 guests came and the Regimental band played in the ante room

10 March.
Bn took part in a Bde Mt exercise starting at noon and ending at 0400 hrs the next day. 2
/Lt PF Corbold and W Baxendale went on P.I. XXXX Course.


11 March
Reveille at 1030 hrs otherwise work as usual.

12 March
Most of the day was spent in Conferences and preparing for the Bn exercise due to start at midnight.

13 March
Bn exercise ended at noon. It consisted of a night drive, taking up a posn in the dark and carrying out a withdrawal in daylight.

14 March
Coys carried out Field Firing at Nettleton Beck in the form of a pl attack supported by the 2” mortar.

15 March
No 2 Coy carried out Field Firing in the morning.

16 March
Church in the morning. Captain the Lord Devon took over Command of No 2 Coy. Captain W de Knoop becomes 2nd Lt.

17 March
No 3 Coy Field Firing. Captain the Viscount Long proceeded on sick leave.

18 March
1st day of three day Div exercise spent mainly in getting into concentration areas.

19 March
2nd day of Divisional exercise. Bn moved south to area N Thoresby and prepared to put in an attack across the Louth Navigation Canal at midnight. The MT drive went well except for No 2 Coy who went the wrong way.

20 March
The attack started at midnight and the Canal was crossed with assault boats. By 0400 hrs the final objective was reached without opposition as the enemy had gone home. Bn had breakfast in Area Marshchapel. No 1 Coy marched two miles out of their way to have breakfast in the billet which they occupied throughout the summer.

21 March
Work as usual. Captain B G Britton proceeded on 7 days leave.

22 March
Drill parade in the morning. Commanding Officer attended conference in Lincoln.

23 March
Church in morning. Major A F Sinclair went on artillery course at …… for 5 days. 2? Lt J Blow went on XXXX course.

24 March
HQ Coy divided into six pls, practiced Field Firing. 2/ Lt A Balfour went on 7 days leave. Commanding Officer lectured all Bns HQ and HQ Coy officers and Sergeants in the evening.

25 March
1st day of Brigade 2 day Scheme. Bn left Billeting Area about 1700 hrs.
2/Lt Howard Stepney proceeded on 7 days leave.

26 March
Bn arrived back from Ek @ (sic) about 2200 hrs.

27 March
Work as usual. A snowstorm during the night. HQ Field Firing.

28 March
Reg Lt Col arrived in the evening. A dinner party at Bn HQ. Guests: the Brigadier, Lady Yarborough, Col W G Shaw Stewart, Mrs Forster, Sir Walter de Bartelotte, Mrs Adeane, Mrs Harford. All went on to Sgts dance after dinner.

29 March
AM, Lt Col went around all Coy Billets, lunched with No 3 Coy. No 1 Coy got into final of Brigade intercoy football by beating REs 4-2. All officers dined at Bn HQ in the evening.

30 March
R Lt Col left early in the morning. Church as usual. Captain the Viscount Long returned from sick leave in the evening and resumed his duties as Adjt.

31 March
HQ Coy carried out Field Firing. 2/Lt J E Gull went to Bisley on a XXXX course. No 4 Coy had a rehearsal for Field Firing.

List of Appendices
1) 1 Gds Bde R Exercise 10 Mar 1941
2) 2 C CT Bn exercise. No 11-13 mar 1941
3) 1 Div exercise 19 Mar 1941
4) 1 Gds Bde Exercise. 25 Mar 1941.

 

War diary April 1941.

1 Apr
No 4 Coy carried out Field Firing. The young corporals class, commenced on the 11.3.41, ended having put in only 9 full working days. Capt W de Knoop proceeded on 7 days leave.

2 Apr
Early in the morning the Bn left to take part in 1 dev exercise according to the attached operation order. Capt Harford acted as chief umpire for the Bn. 2/Lt J rickards acted as Motor Contact Officer. The Bn arrived at Beechamwell in Norfolk after a 120 mile drive at 1800 hrs.

3 Apr
After spending the night at Beechamwell Hall the Bn moved by Bus and March Route to Woodgate and came into Bde Reserve.

4 Apr
At 1730 hrs after a peaceful night in Woodgate the Bn moved off by March Route to Swanton Morley preparatory to putting in an attack. However the cease fire was sounded and the Bn reembussed and set off for home at 1045 hrs, reaching Brocklesby at 2000 hrs, a distance of about 140 miles.

5 Apr
There were no parades. The day was spent cleaning up after the 1 Div Scheme and preparing for the forthcoming 1 Corps Exercise. 2/Lt I O T Blow returned from 1 Corps Pln Comdrs course.

6 Apr
1 Corps Ex commenced at dawn. The Bn was warned that any move before dark was unlikely and so attendance at church was made compuslory.
Day was spent preparing for the exercise for which no orders other than administrative instructions and warning orders were issued until 1400 hrs.
1400. Bn concentrated round Brocklesby.
1400 hrs. The Bn was concentrated around Brocklesbury at 1900 hrs. Exercise war diaries were kept and a copy is attached.

7 Apr
The Exercise continued.

7 Apr
0001. Bn passed Bde SP (see attached March … and instructions).
0415. Halt on route for breakfast.
0600. MT move continued.
1000. Bn arrived at Brandsay and was ordered to debus and advance north through Helmsley up Bilsdale. Bn debussed at Sproxton and the advance commenced. The Bn was the leading Bn of the Bde throughout the move by MT and the advance. 1 Div recce Bn was in front of the Bn.
1348. Message from Bde that bas spray had been experienced south of Thirsk. Eye shields were therefore worn from that time.
0215. Message from Bde per W/T that the enemy were occupying a position approximately 12 mls north of Hemsley, strength estimated at 2 Coys with AFVs and A/T weapons. The attacked Bty 2 Fd Regt got into position to bring fire to bear.
1800. Information received that the enemy had secured their position and Bn was ordered to bivouacs in area Chopgate 038197. by 2000 hrs the Bn was comfortably billeted and orders were received to continue the advance on the following day.

8 Apr
Fwd body crossed S P in accordance with Exercise order No 2 attached.
1115. Fwd body held up by heavy enemy MG fire from high ground Roseberry Topping 0532 and so the Bn was ordered to concentration in Great Ayton with attacked areas.
1200. The Brigadier 1 & 6 Gds Bde visited Bn HQ and gave orders for an attack with as objective the high ground North West of Guisborough.
1315. The attack commenced according to 2 CG Exercise order No 3 attached.
1515. It became clear that the attack was not succeeding as enemy resistance was much stronger than anticipated.
1615. Bn HQ moved from Great Ayton to Newton 0533. The CO met the Brigadier and Divisional Commander at Pinchinthorpe sta and made a new plan.
1700. The Bn was ordered to bivouac in its present position and prepare to support an attack to be delivered by the 2nd Inf Bde in the left against the high ground north of Guisborough-Middlesborough road.
1715. The CO met Gp at Newton and delivered verbally the attached operation order. Casualties were 2 Offs and 19 Ors wounded. These were evacuated through the usual channels.
2225. Additional operation order was about to be sent out to Coys (see App C) when ‘Exercise Cancelled’ was received from Bde.
‘Exercise Cancelled’ was received at 2225 and the Bn bivouacked very comfortably in the Area Newton-Pinchthorpe sta. It was thought that the return journey would begin early in the morning but a good night’s sleep was had by all.

9 Apr
Early in the morning we were warned that we were unlikely to be moved before 1700 hrs and so the time was spent tidying up and resting and getting a good meal. The move actually commenced at 1552 hrs and proceeding at 12 ½ m.i.h. by day and 8 m.i.h. by night , and halting for two hours from 1800-2000 hrs, the Bn arrived back at Brocklesby at 0615 hrs on the 10.4.41.

10 Apr
Most people slept for the rest of the morning and the afternoon was spent in cleaning up. Lt L Dawnay proceeded on privilege leave on 8.4.41 and Captain de Knoop returned on 9.4.41. On 10.4.41 Capt Sir John Piggot-Brown, Capt Lord Devon, Lt Windsor-Clive and 2/Lts Corbould and Rickards proceeded on privilege leave.

11 Apr
Short 15 services were held in the open air in each Coy area and were attended by all ranks. Otherwise cleaning up continued.

12 Apr
Drill parades were held for all Coys in the morning. The Drums paraded with HQ Coy and 2 Coy. No 4 Coy held a Coy dance at Keelby in the evening.

13 Apr
Church was held as usual.

14 Apr
The day was largely devoted to recreation. In the afternoon the final of the 1st Guards Bde inter company football competition was played at Market Rason. After a really exciting match No 1 Coy was beaten 3-1 by 4 Coy Gren Gds. The score was one all at the end of the allotted time but the Grenadiers managed to score two goals in the twenty minutes extra time. 4 Coy held a dance in the evening.

15 Apr
HQ Coy and 1 Coy practiced TSMG and two NCOs classes, XXXX XXXX course and a young Sgts and L/Sgts Drill course commenced at Bn HQ.

16 Apr
The Drums played at a drill parade of No 4 Coy and TSMG firing continued. In the afternoon the semi finals and finals of the Inter Coy novices boxing competitions were held. No 2 Coy was just the winner.

17 Apr
The CO held a TEWT for Coy courses and the subaltern officers were at the disposal of the 2 l/c for instruction. The Drums played at a drill parade of No 1 Coy.

18 Apr
4 Coy carried out TSMG practice in the morning and there was a Sgts mess shoot with rifles and Brens in the afternoon. 2 and 3 Coys held classes in the evening.

19 Apr
Drill parades were held by all Coys except No 1 Coy in the morning. Major A F Sinclair assumed command of the Bn while Col S a Forster proceeded on privilege leave.

20 Apr
Church services were held as usual.


21 Apr
HQ Coy and 1 Coy held Inter Sec Bren Gun competitions on Greatcoats Range.

22 Apr
2 Coy carried out training with Assault Boats and 4 Coy with Kapok Bridging.

23 Apr
4 Coy held its Inter Sec Bren competition and the final was decided in the afternoon. Courier Pl B teams were the winners. 3 Coy had the Assault Boats and 2 Coy the Kapok.

24 Apr
2 Coy continued their Kapok training and 1 Coy was allotted the Assault Boats. 3 Coy carried out a Route March.

25 Apr
4 Cot trained with Assault Boats and the Commanding Officer returned from 7 days privilege leave with the MO.

26 Apr
According to the Northern Command orders the day was observed as an MT holiday and only essential transport could be used. This made the usual drill parades impossible except for HQ and 1 Coy. 4 Coy continued their assault boat training and the Commanding Officer after resuming command of them.
Bn proceeded to Otterburn, XXXX for an artillery demonstration to be held on the 27 Apr.

27 Apr
Church service as usual. Capt AFC Nicholls, Coldstream Gds 1 Divisional staff reported for 14 day’s attachment to the Bn. He was posted to 3 Coy.

28 Apr
The second senior NCO’s Drill Class continued, as did two more XXXX XXXX courses.
HQ Coy trained with Kapok bridging material and 1 Coy with Assault Boats. The rifle range was allotted to 2 and 3 Coys.

29 Apr
1 & 4 Coys had the range and HQ continued training with the Kapok. 2 Coy was allotted the Assault Boats.

30 Apr
The advance party as detailed in the attached instructions proceeded to Otterburn, Northumberland. 1 Coy trained with the Kapok.

 

War diary May 1941

1 May
The main body as detailed in the attached instructions proceeded to Otterburn, Northumberland. 1 Coy continued Kapok training.

2 May
3 Coy, Signal Pln and Mortar Pln took part in an artillery demonstration.

3 May
Elements of the party in Northumberland visited the village of Coldstream as described in App B. Drill parades took place for the remainder of the Bn as usual. The Sgt’s Mess held a dance at Keelby.

4 May
Church services as usual. Two of them were held in the open air.

5 May
The Inter Bn cross country race was held at Bde HQ. Thr Bn team was captained by Capt T Slacker MC but finished third. Lt & Qum Jones having returned to duty, 2/Lt the Hon P Kindersley who had been a/Qum proceeded on 7 days privilege leave.

6 May
1 Coy practiced fighting patrols. The Commanding Officer attended a conference at Bde HQ at 1030 hrs on the forthcoming Div Exercises.

7 May
The Bn took part in 1 Div Exercises.

8 May
The 1 Div Exercises continued and the Bn returned to billets about 1700 hrs.

9 May
Training was continued as usual, emphasis being laid upon XXXX training. Dances were held by 2 Co, 3 Coy and 4 Coy.

10 May
Drill parades were held as usual.

11 May
Church parades were held as usual. The CO proceeded on a camouflage course and Major AF Sinclair assumed command of the Bn.

12 May
Nos 1 & 2 Coys took part in an advance guard exercise. Major Sinclair attended a divisional administrative conference at 1 Div HQ.

13 May
The Bd carried out a night exercise according to attached instructions and XXXX. Major Sinclair directed and set the exercise and the Bde Major watched its execution.

14 May
In the afternoon a demonstration of the mobile vanguard was given to members of the press, arranged by Lt Windsor Clive. The XXXX is attached together with a copy of notes on the origin and history of the Regiment compiled by Major Sinclair and distributed to spectators. No 1 Coy held a dance in the evening and a short course of Spring Drills for all officers, begun in the week ending 10 May, was continued.

15 May
Nos 3 & 4 Coys carried out Coy route marches. HQ, 3 & 2 Coys were allotted the range for TSMG and terrain practice. 2 Coy marched to and from the range, a distance of about 20 miles.

16 May
1 & 4 Coys were allotted the range for TSMG and terrain practice, and HQ Coy and 3 Coy carried out Coy route marches. Major Hill represented the CO at a preliminary recce of the camp at Thoresby.

17 May
The usual Drill parades were not held owing to the XXXX of route marches recently carried out by Coys. Cricket matches were played between 1 & 2 Coys and 2 & 4 Coys.

18 May
Church services were held as usual. The CO, Adj, IO, & QM carried out a recce of the camp.

19 May
1 Coy were allotted the ranges. The Drums played at 1 Div HQ in aid of local ‘war weapons week’ and an ENSA performance of ‘Private Lives’ by Noel Coward was given at the Institute, Keelby.

20 May
The range was allotted to a sniper’s course run by 2/Lt J E Gull. The men shot very well. In the afternoon the Commanding Officers and Coy and Pl Comdrs and Pl sgts attended a demonstration at 1 Gds Bde HQ on the removal of anti tank mines.

21 May
The march to camp began according to attached orders and instructions. The Bn spent a very comfortable night in the villages of Grayingham, Blyborough and Willoughton.

22 May
The march continued. The Bn spent the night in North Wheatley, also very comfortably.

23 May
The march was completed. The total distance was 62 miles. No casualties were suffered and the Brigadier watched the TSu march into Thoresby, complementing the commanding officers on their bearing and turn out. The main body arrived at 1430 hrs.

24 May
The day was spent settling into the very comfortable new quarters. The CO went round the Bn area in the morning. It is noteworthy that this was the first occasion on which the Bn had been billeted all together since before the war.

25 May
An open air church service was held in the park after which the Bde Comdr visited the camp.

26 May
A Bn Drill Parade with Drums was held in the morning. In the afternoon a training programme of cooperation with 12 RTR, a copy of which is attached together with Camp Routine, was started by Nos 1 & 4 Coys giving a demonstration of an attack with tanks. In the evening the band of the RTR played outside Bn HQ.

27 May
The programme was continued by 3 Coy acting as ‘enemy’to 2 Hamps in an attack with tanks. Massed drums of the Bn and 3 Grenadier Gds were on parade at 1000 hrs for guard XXXX and afterwards beat ‘Retreat’ in front of the Bn HQ.

28 May
The Bn carried out the same exercise as that done by 2 Hamps on the 27.5.41 with 2 hamps acting as enemy.

29 May
The sports were held all day which were rather spoilt by bad weather.

30 May
A night exercise was carried out commencing shortly after midnight 29/30.5.41 according to instructions attached. In the evening the massed drums of the Bn and 3 grenadier gds played in the Grenadier’s camp at Welbeck.

31 may
The Bn less 2 Coy and also Mortar and Carrier Pln and Rear Party ….. to the Brocklesby Area.

 

War diary June 1941

1 June
2 Coys and att’d arms carried out an exercise with Home Guard in the Worksop area according to instructions. The whole rear party then returned to the Brocklesby area. Late in the evening the Bn received the order to mobilize for war.

2 June
The first day of mobilization according to mobilization scheme attached. The Commanding Officer addressed representatives of all ranks, explaining the situation and impressing upon them the need for secrecy. Nothing whatever was known of the destination or role of the Bn. Tropical kit was issued.

3 June
Second day of mobilization.

4 June
Third day of mobilization.

5 June.
Fourth day of mobilization.

6 June
Just before dawn the alarm was given and parachutists were said to have landed in the Bn area. These were represented by HQ Coy XXXX pursuit. The Pls in waiting were called out to surround them.
Fifth day of mobilization.

7 June
Sixth day of mobilization.

8 June
Church services as usual. Seventh day of mobilization. Adv party left for Pollok (see attached note).

9 June
Eighth day of mobilization.

10 June
001 hrs mobilization complete. Orders received for move of the Bn by MT and rail.

11 June
The Bn moved to Pollok camp in accordance with movement instructions att’d.



12 June
The personnel of the Bn arrived by rail shortly before midday. The MT coln at about 1600 hrs. In the evening orders were issued that all personnel should proceed on 7 days embarkation leave in two batches.

13 June
The day was spent cleaning up the camp and shortly before midnight 50% of the Bn proceeded on 7 days embarkation leave as above.

14 June
The weather was very wet and so Adjutant’s parade ordered for this morning in KD for fitting was cancelled. The Commanding Officer inspected the camp.

15 June
The Bn went to church in the Village Hall. The 3rd Gren Gds attended the same service. After church the Commanding Officer inspected No 2 3 4 Coy lines.

16 June
Nos 1 2 HQ Coys went to baths at Pollockshaw baths am. Adj’s parade @ 1345 for the fitting of KD. On the whole the Bn looked very smart.

17 June
No 4 Coy went to baths am. The remainder of the Bn marched to John Brown’s shipyards by March Route, a distance of 22 miles there and back, where they were conducted around the works.

18 June
No 3 Coy went to the baths am. The remainder of the Bn went to watch XXXX XXXX. The cast consisted of the demonstration Pl at Pirbright. Pm the Bn was beaten 6-5 at football by the Glasgow Police. The Bn watched the game.

19 June
All officers and specialist NCOs took part in a Bn TEWT on the defence of the White Cart River. Adj’s parade in the morning. Coy did weapon training in the afternoon.

20 June
Adj’s parade. A conference on Thursday’s TEWT in the afternoon. First leave party returned in the evening.

21 June
The second leave party left in the morning.

22 June
C of E service was held in St Christopher’s church hall.


23 June
The Coys went to local public baths in the morning. Adj’s parade was held in the afternoon in KD order. The master tailor was in attendance to fit the new clothing.

24 June
Adj’s parade was held in the morning. In the afternoon a demonstration of the new 68 grenade was given.

25 June
Adjutant’s parade in the morning. Baths for two Coys in the afternoon when HQ Coy carried out a route march. The Commanding Officer proceeded on embarkation leave and Major A F Sinclair assumed command of the Bn.

26 June
Adj’s parade in the morning. A TEWT for all officers and some specialist MOs was held by Major Sinclair. 3 Coy carried out a route march.

27 June
Adj’s parade in the morning. 2 Coy carried out a route march. The second party of men on embarkation leave returned by 2359 hrs.

28 June
Adj’s parade in the morning. 1 and 4 Coys carried out route marches.

29 June
An open air parade service was held in the morning.

30 June
Adj’s parade in the morning. 3 Coy carried out a route march and a TEWT for officers and NCOs.

 

War diary July 1941

1 July
Adjutants parade in the morning. (Training programme for the week is att’d showing all Coys in turn carrying out programme outlined above).

2 July
A demonstration of throwing 68 and 69 grenades was held in the afternoon for those of 3 4 and HQ Coys who had not seen it.

3 July
Training continued according to the programme.

4 July
In the afternoon a further demonstration as above was held for the remainder of the Bn. This was also attended by 15 officers of the Cameronians who had been attending a weapons training course run during the week by Lt R M Chaplin. The 2 l/c also held TEWT for Coy comdrs and 2 s l/c Coys.

5 July
All Coys went for 3 mile runs in the morning. A MT drive was held for drivers, driver’s mates and motor cyclists who were told to find their way round a 20 mile course consisting of 5 ‘points’ of which they received the map references one at a time. In the evening the Bn received orders to move by ship to Inverary.

6 July
Church services as usual. The CO held a conference in the morning.

7 July
The day was spent preparing for the move on 8 July. Adj’s parade in the morning.

8 July
The Bn moved to Inverary and went aboard the Queen Emma and the Princess Beatrix according to the attached instructions.

9 July
In the morning all ranks practiced boarding ALC’s. In the afternoon each Coy made a landing on the beach from A L C’s.The attached ship’s rouing orders were issued in HMS Queen Emma and HMS Princess Beatrix, ships ‘B’ and ‘A’ respectively.

10 July
The Bn took part in an exercise with no 3 Commando according to the att’d instructions.

11 July
Further practice in boarding and loading ALC’s took place in the morning and in the afternoon everyone went to bathe and fish.

12 July
The Bn took part in a further exercise with 3 Commando and Bde HQ according to the attached instructions.

13 July
The Bn returned to Pollok camp.

14 July
The day was spent cleaning up and settling back into camp.

15 July
Adjutant’s parade in the morning. The 3 Pls of No 2 Coy were sent out independently to bivouack for 48 hours.

16 July
Adjutant’s parade in the morning. Training continued in camp.

17 July
Adjutant’s parade in the morning. The 2 Coy Pls returned and 3 Coy was sent out in a similar manner.

18 July
4 Coy shot on Foxbar Range in the morning.

19 July
Adjutant’s parade in the morning. 3 Coy returned from bivouack in the afternoon.

20 July
Church services as usual. In the afternoon the CO held a conference on the forthcoming week’s training.

21 July
1 Coy and the mortar Pl went out to bivouack. In the afternoon a party of 30 all ranks were shown different types of aircraft at Renfrew Aerodrome.

22 July
3 Coy were allotted Foxbar Rifle Range in the morning and 2 Coy in the afternoon. The Carrier Pl and the Intelligence Section went out to bivouack.

23 July
1 Coy and the Mortar Pl returned from bivouack. 4 Coy went out. HQ Coy were allotted the Ranges.

24 July
The Signal, AA and Pioneer Pls went out to bivouack. 1 Coy were allotted the Range.

25 July
Adjutant’s parade in the morning. 4 Coy returned from bivouack.

26 July
The Signal, AA, Pioneer and Carrier Pls and the Int Sec returned from bivouack. Adjutant’s parade in the morning.

27 July
Church services as usual.

28 July
The administrative Pln less personnel required in camp went out to bivouack with the MTO. Adjutant’s parade in the morning.

29 July
1 and 2 Coys and the Mortar Pln went out for 36 hours field training. Adjutant’s parade in the morning. 3 Coy carried out a TEOT for officers and senior MOs.

30 July
Adjutant’s parade in the morning. 1 and 2 Coys returned together with the mortar Pln and the administrative Pln

31 July
3 and 4 Coys left camp for 36 hours field training.

List of Appendices.

• Training programme WE 5.7.41
• Move orders.
• Ship routine orders.
• No 3 Commando Exercise 10.7.41
• ------- ------- 12.7.41.

 

War diary August 1941

1 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. 3 & 4 Coys returned. Individual training carried out in camp.

2 Aug
Administration for all Coys. Cricket matches were played in the afternoon.

3 Aug
Church services as usual. In afternoon Mr Nat Gonella’s band performed in the XXXX mental hospital to a large audience drawn from the whole Bde.

4 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. An inter Coy knock out games competition was started comprising cricket, hockey and soccer.

5 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. The games tournament continued.

6 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. The games tournament was completed, All services dance in the Langside Public hall in the evening. ‘110’ force Commander visited the Bn in the morning.

7 Aug
Swimming and diving competition in the morning. In the afternoon the Bn received orders to proceed to Inverary for training on the 10 Aug.

8 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. Administration. An advance party under the IO and GM proceeded to Inverary.

9 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. The Comdg Off held a conference at 1000 hrs to discuss the forthcoming training and proceeded to Inverary in the afternoon.

10 Aug
Church services as usual for the rear party consisting of 1st line reinforcements, Coy seconds l/c and others for whom accommodation could not be found at Inverary under OC HQ Coy. The main body proceeded to Inverary by train and lorry arriving about 1800 hrs.

11 Aug
1 & 2 Coys practiced assault landing in the morning and 3 & 4 Coys in the afternoon.

12 Aug
The Bn took part in a 1 Gds Bde training exercise in accordance with the att’d training orders. 3 & 4 Coys acted as enemy.

13 Aug
Sports fixtures within the Bn with neighbouring units had been arranged but the weather was so bad all day that they had to be cancelled. The OC Br Gds Bde held a conference on board HMS Ettrick which was attended by the Comdg Off 2 l/c and Specialist Pln Comdrs.

14 Aug
The Bn took part in another 1st Gds Bde exercise, a repetition of the one carried out on 12.3.41. 1 & 2 Coys acted as enemy.

15 Aug
The Bn returned to Pollok camp.

16 Aug
the day was spent ‘cleaning up’.

17 Aug
Church services as usual.

18 Aug
1& 2 Coys carried out practice attacks on defended pill boxes. 2 & 4 Coys were individually instructed.

19 Aug
3 & 4 Coys carried out practice attacks on defended pill boxes. HQ Coy was individually instructed.

20 Aug
1 Coy was individually instructed. 1 & 2 Coys practiced crossing wire obstacles. 4 Coy and 2 Dets Mortar Pln were allotted a Field Firing range in the Tinto Hills.

21 Aug
2 Coy and Mortar Pln fired on the Field Firing Ranges. The Comdg Off inspected 1 & 4 Coys.

22 Aug
A Bde signal exercise was held according to the attached instrs. Pln & Sec training for the remainder.

23 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. The Comdg Off inspected the Coy.

24 Aug
Church services as usual.

25 Aug
A Bn Rifle Meeting was held at XXXX Range.

26 Aug
The Bn Rifle Meeting was concluded.

27 Aug
1 Coy & 2 XXXX Mortar Pln were allotted the Field Firing Ranges. The Comdg Off inspected 2 & 3 Coys. Pln and Sec training including the surmounting of wire obstacles of the “XXXX’ (could be Continental) type.

28 Aug
3 Coy & 2 Dets Mortars were allotted the Field Firing range.

29 Aug
The Bn was to have taken part in a 1 Gds Bde Exercise, which had to be put off owing to the very bad weather. Pln and SXXX training was continued instead.

30 Aug
Adj’s parade in the morning. Administration.

31 Aug
Church services as usual.

List of Appendices

• Adv party instructions.
• Move orders.
• Exercise 12.8.41.
• XXXX orders.
• Exercises 14.8.41
• Camp Routine orders.

 

War diary September 1941

1 Sep
2 Coy carried out training in cooperation with light tanks. The remainder of the Bn undertook Coy training in the attack of pillboxes surrounded by wire.

2 Sep
Representatives of each Coy were taught how to place and fire the Bangalore Torpedo. The greater part of the Bn subsequently watched a demonstration of this weapon.

3 Sep
3 & 4 Coys, Carrier Pln, Int personnel, and Coy snipers shot on Deckment Range.

4 Sep
A scheme was arranged according to the att’d XXXX for 1 & 4 Coys, AA Pln and 1 Sec Carriers to undergo aerial attack. Unfortunately the weather was too thick for the aeroplanes to fly but the scheme was carried out with the aircraft imaginary.

5 Sep
2 Coy gave a demonstration of attack and consolidation in cooperation with ‘C’ SS Sng RAC in front of the Force Commander.

6 Sep
4 Coy, Intelligence personnel and Coy snipers fired on Deckment range.

7 Sep
A combined C of E service was held in Hawkhead Mental Hospital. The Bde Comdr took the salute at the march past afterwards and the Drums of the 3 Gren Gds played.

8 Sep
A hundred men who had not had two periods of 7 days privilege leave since 14 Nov 1940 proceeded on leave in addition to the normal 10% of the Bn. An advance party proceeded to the new billeting area in Dumfries.
Coys were allotted bathing periods in Pollokshaw public baths.

9 Sep
1 & 2 Coys fired in Deckment Range with 4 Coy snipers.

10 Sep
Adj’s parade in the morning. Individual training.

11 Sep
Adj’s parade in the morning. 1 Coy carried out a route march.

12 Sep
Adj’s parade in the morning. The Comdg Off visited the new billeting area. The MOT attended a demonstration of unloading MT off a ship into MGCs and onto the shore at Largs.
A boxing tournament was held in conjunction with the Glasgow Home Guard at their drill hall in the evening.

13 Sept
Adj’s parade in the morning. Administration.

14 Sep
Church services as usual.

15 Sep
4 Coy and 1 Sec Carriers practiced an attack with ‘C’ SS Sgn RAC.

16 Sep
1 Coy and 1 Sec Carrier Pln did the same attack, 2 & 3 Coys and the AA Pln carried out a Defence from the air exercise with the cooperation of two aircraft of the RAF.

17 Sep
Individual training in the morning. Hockey and football matches in the afternoon.

18 Sep
Pollokshaw public baths were allotted to Coys in the morning.

19 Sep
The Bn moved by MT and rail to Dumfries and were billeted in Nithsdale mill and the XXXX.

20 Sep
The day was spent settling in to the new quarters.

21 Sep
Parade service in St John’s Episcopal Church. XXXX XXXX.

22 Sep
A young Corporals class was started. All Coys commenced section training in the new training areas.

23 Sep
Coys continued section training. A practice PAD alarm requiring the examination of the n Buildings was held at 1700 hrs.

24 Sep
WIT and individual training took place.

25 Sep
Platoon training. No 2 Coy held a company exercise.

26 Sep
Section training for Rifle Coys. A skeleton Bn exercise for Bn Reg and Reg Coy was held according to the attached instructions.

27 Sep
Adj’s parade arranged for the morning had to be cancelled owing to rain. Administration.

28 Sep
Church parade was cancelled owing to rain. Services were held in the men’s dining room in Nithsdale Mill.

29 Sep
Company training continued. 1 Coy carried out a night patrolling scheme.

30 Sep
Company training continued. A number of officers and NCO umpires took part in a 110 Force Field Firing Exercise.

List of Appendices.

• Defence against Air 4.9.41
• Skeleton Bn Exercise 26.9.41.

 

War diary October 1941

1 Oct
Company training. 2 Coy carried out a Route March.

2 Oct
A party of 50 officers, NCOs and men were spectators at a Field Firing Exercise carried out by the 3 Gren Gds. A number of Companies were formed from the Bn.

3 Oct
W/T in the morning. Inter Coy football, hockey matches in the afternoon.

4 Oct
Adj’s parade in the morning.

5 Oct
Church parade as usual. A Coy Comdrs XXXX was carried out under the 2nd in Command for a Div Field Firing Ex to be undertaken on 6th Oct.

6 Oct
The Bn carried out a Field Firing Exercise under the 2nd in Command in cooperation with the 457 Lt Bty.

7 Oct
Individual and weapon training.

8 Oct
The 2nd in Command held a TEWT for all officers. The Comdr 1st Gde Bde visited and inspected the Bn area in the morning.

9 Oct
The Adjt proceeded on leave. Lt L Dawnay took over in his absence.

10 Oct
Commanding Officer attended a conference at Bde HQ on the forthcoming Bde exercise.

11 Oct
Adj’s parade in the morning. Football v the Hamps and Grenadiers in the afternoon.

12 Oct
1st day of the exercise. The Bn did NOT move from billets.

13 Oct
2nd day of the ex. The Bn still did not move.

14 Oct
3rd day of the ex. The Bn was still in billets. The Force Comdr inspected the billets in the morning.

15 Oct
Bn Route March of 11 ½ miles in the morning under the Commanding Officer.

16 Oct
Weapon Training and Interior Economy.

17 Oct
Major E R Hill proceeded on leave. Hockey v the 2nd Hamps in the afternoon.

18 Oct
Adj’s parade in the morning.

19 Oct
It was too wet for church parade and so parade service was held in the Dining Rooms. Other denominations services as usual.

20 Oct
1 Coy carried out digging and wiring practice.

21 Oct
A skeleton Bn XXXX exercise was carried out in the dark.

22 Oct
About 80 Offrs and NCOs were spectators at a W/T demonstration by personnel of the XXXX Command Weapon and Training School.

23 Oct
2 & 3 Coys carried out a full day exercise.

24 Oct
4 Coy Plus practiced night patrolling independently.
The Adj & SM reconnoitered ship “F5” in preparation for its occupation by the Bn exercise “L3”.

25 Oct
The re-formed corps of Drums played for the 1st time at the Adj’s parade in the morning.
In the evening orders were received that “L3” exercise had been cancelled.

26 Oct
The Drums played at church parade.

27 Oct
1 Coy carried out Pln training. 2 Coys Plns carried out night patrolling.
28 Oct
3 Coy carried out an attack exercise in cooperation with Couriers. 2 & 4 Coys carried out a combined Coy exercise.

29 Oct
Individual training in the morning. Games in afternoon.

30 Oct
1 Coy practiced the assault on pillboxes & wire.

31 Oct
1 Coy & 2 Coy carried out a night exercise.

 

Nov & Dec 1941 missing

 

War diary January 1942

1 Jan
New Year’s Day. 4 carried out training in the attack.

2 Jan
3 Coy carried out similar training.

3 Jan
Adj’s parade in the morning was cancelled owing to wet weather.

4 Jan
The Bn was going to take part in Dumfries sub area exercise ‘Himmler’ which was cancelled owing to rain soon after the Bn had got into position for attack. Instr’s for the ex are att’d.

5 Jan
4 Coy practiced the defence of a river line and bridge.

6 Jan
All Rifle Coy LWG No 1’s, the AA and Gd Def Pln and some Carrier personnel carried out AA practice in the Sleve target range at Castle Norris.

7 Jan
1 & 2 Coys carried out exercises set by the Bde Comdr 1st Gds Bde.

8 Jan
The Bde Comdr addressed 1 & 2 Coys on the previous day’s exercise. 3 Coy practiced the defence of a village.

9 Jan
1 Coy carried out Pln exercises in the attack. Personnel of the Bn produced the Bn revue ‘Rise and Shine’ in the Mechanic’s Institute.

10 Jan
Adj’s parade in the morning.

11 Jan
Church parade was cancelled owing to snow.

12 Jan
No 4 Coy practiced ‘holding a river’.

13 Jan
No 4 Coy carried out a night scheme.

14 Jan
No 4 Coy carried out firing in the range.

15 Jan
2 Coy carried out Coy attack training.

16 Jan
All Coys carried out weapon training.

17 Jan
The Comdg Off carried out a kit inspection.

18 Jan
Church parade as usual.

19 Jan
A Bn sig exercise was carried out according to the att’d instructions.

20 Jan
4 Coy carried out a cross country compass march and 2 Coy practiced the attack on a village.

21 Jan
1 Coy and the AA & Gd Def Pln were allotted Locharmoss Rifle Range.

22 Jan
Heavy snow made training impossible and almost all personnel were employed in clearing roads etc.
As for 22.1.42, 3 Coy were dispatched to clear the Dumfries – Castle Douglas Rly line and owing to unforeseen circumstances did not return to billets until 1.0 am.

23 Jan
A thaw set in. Approx 100 men were reformed for snow clearance. The remainder carried out WT in billets.

24 Jan
Adj’s parade was held in the Dining Room in Nithsdale Mill where arms drill was practiced.

25 Jan
Divine service was held in Nithsdale Mill. At a conference at 1st Gds Bde HQ on 1st Gds Bde Exercise ‘Dalry’ scheduled to take place on 27.1.42 the exercise was cancelled owing to bad weather.

26 Jan
3 Coy carried out training in the defence of a bridge.

27 Jan
1 Coy and portions of HQ Coy carried out long cross country compass marches in deep snow.

28 Jan
Ts OET for the whole Bn were started.

29 Jan
4 Coy carried out a cross country compass march. Ts OET continued.

30 Jan
Adj’s parade for 2 Coy. Ts OET continued.
3 & 4 Coys were inspected in the field by the Brigade Comdr, carrying out exercises which he himself had set.

31 Jan
Adj’s parade in the morning. A fire broke out in the XXXX at about 2100 hrs but was extinguished by 2300 hrs.

List of Appendices.

• ‘Himmler’ Exercise
• Signal Exercise.

 

War diary February 1942

1 Feb
Owing to the damage caused by the fire on 31.1.42 and heavy fall of snow church parade was cancelled. PM ‘Dalry’ Exercise postponed from 27.1.42 to 3.2.42 was again cancelled owing to bad weather.

2 Feb
2 Coy practiced the defence of a village.

3 Feb
3 Coy carried out a section competition.

4 Feb
W.T. P.T. and maintenance.

5 Feb
4 Coy practiced night patrolling.

6 Feb
1 Coy practiced the section in the assault.

7 Feb
Adj. parade in the morning was rendered v difficult by frozen roads.

8 Feb
Church parade was cancelled owing to the weather.

9 Feb
4 Coy practiced an attack on a village. A Corporal’s dance was held in the Assembly Rooms Dumfries in the evening.

10 Feb
3 Coy held a section competition.

11 Feb
1 Coy carried out an exercise against parachutists. The AA 68 Dect Pln were allotted Locharmoss Rifle Range.

12 Feb
3 Coy carried out a night cross country compass march.

13 Feb
2 Coy practiced crossing a river under fire in boats.


14 Feb
Adj’s parade. T’s O.E.P. for personnel who had been absent the previous week. 1 and 2 Coy held a boxing match at Annan, won by 1 Coy.

15 Feb
Church Parade as usual.

16 Feb
3 Coy were allotted Locharmoss rifle range.

17 Feb
4 Coy practiced night digging.

18 Feb
1 Coy carried out a withdrawal exercise. In the evening the Bn won a boxing competition against the 2nd Bn Hampshire Regiment by 12 fights to 3.

19 Feb
P.T. W.T. for all the Bn. Adj’s parade in the morning.

20 Feb
The Bn took part in 1st Guards Bde exercise ‘Dumfries’ according to the att’d operation order and 1wt summary.

21 Feb
The Bn continued to take part in Exercise Dumfries which ended at approx 1100 hrs. The Adjutant proceeded on leave.

22 Feb
Church parade was held in the Mill owing to snow.

23 Feb
A conference was held by the Bde Commander in the Mechanic’s Institute on Exercise Dumfries. He congratulated the Bn on it’s defence of Dumfries.

24 Feb
The Acting Adjutant Lt T.P. Crowder attended a conference at Bde HQ on Dalry (Exercise). Major E.R. Hill later held a conference of Coy Commanders.

25 Feb
The Bn took part in Exercise Dalry. The Bn was commanded by Major E.R. Hill. Lt Col Forster commanded the 1st Guards Bde.

26 Feb
W.T & P.T. for the whole Bn.

27 Feb
The Regimental Lt Colonel arrived at 0800 hrs. He spent the morning with the Commanding Officer and inspected No 2 Company at ANNAN during the afternoon.

28 Feb
The Bn was inspected at 1000 hrs on Whitesands by the Rgt Lieut Colonel, the Bn then marched past with the Corps of Drums. The whole Bn area was then inspected in detail by the Lt Colonel.

On the 2.2.42 L/Sgt Easton (2Coy) and L/Cpl Forrest (HQ Coy) returned from a 10 days trip into the mid Atlantic on HMS Destroyer ‘Boadicea’, engaged in convoy work. L/Cpl Forrest volunteered for duty in the crow’s nest and was the first to sight the convoy that was being taken over in mid Atlantic from the US navy. Much admiration was aroused by the unusual spectacle of a soldier beating the navy at its own game and the Captain of the ship stood L/Cpl Forrest a beer for his prowess!

 

War diary March 1942

1 Mar
1 & 3 Coys and the Signal Pln under Major C.R. Slile left the Billetting area for sea training.

2 Mar
2 Coy returned to Dumfries from Annan and 4 Coy took their place. Both Coys moved by march route, the Drums playing 4 Coy out and 2 Coy into Dumfries.

3 Mar
W.T., P.T. for the whole Bn.

4 Mar
The Carrier Pln moved from Dumfries to Annan. 4 Coy were allotted the XXXXXX Mains Rifle Range.

5 Mar
Heavy falls of snow rendered outdoor training almost impossible.

6 Mar
All personnel cleared snow from the surrounding area. A party under Lt the Hon P.L. Kindersley went by special train to dig out a snowed up train in the high ground west of Castle Douglas.

7 Mar
Parades were impossible owing to the weather. P.T. and administration were carried out.

8 Mar
Divine Service for the reduced number left in the Billeting Area was held in the Mill.

9 Mar
1 & 3 Coys and the Signal Pln returned to the Billeting Area from combined training operations.

10 Mar
2 Coy were allotted Locharmoss Rifle Range.

11 Mar
4 Coy carried out assault boat training. 1 Coy went for a Coy route march.

12 Mar
P.T. & W.T. for the whole Bn.



13 Mar
T’s O.E. P. were carried out by those men who had failed the last tests. 3 Coy carried out a long route march.

14 Mar
Adj’s Parade in the morning.

15 Mar
Church Parade as usual.

16 Mar
4 Coy practiced clearing a wood. 1 Coy personnel all started one week’s attachment to various departments of HQ Coy.

17 Mar
4 Coy carried out the training of a section in the assault.

18 Mar
Adj’s Parade for 4 Coy in the morning. P.T. and W.T. for the whole Bn. 2 & HQ Coys passed hose gas tests in the gas chambers.

19 Mar
HQ Coy was allotted Locharmoss Rifle Range. Lt Gen E.C.A. Schneiber CB, DSO, visited the Bn in the afternoon.. Normal training was continued and included 3 Coy practicing and loading kit across the River Nith in bundles tied up in groundsheets. There were no casualties. The General addressed all Officers and the 1st Gds Bde Gp in the evening.

20 Mar
2 Coy and 4 Coy carried out an attack exercise against each other at dawn. A Sgt’s dance was held in the evening.
The 5th Fd Hosp stationed near Dumfries received orders to move at 0430 hrs 21.3.42 at about 1800 hrs 20.3.42. Bn tpt and a loading party were engaged all night in helping them to do so.

21 Mar
Adj’s Parade in the morning. In the afternoon football match versus 2 Hamps. The Bn won by 8-5.

22 Mar
Church Parade as usual. Col & Adj left for North.

23 Mar
Nos 2, 4 & HQ Coy left for training in the North.


24 Mar.
No 1 Coy carried out Pl and feet training.

25 Mar
No 3 Coy allotted Locharmoss Rifle range. Guard found XXXX crashed aircraft at Esh Park.

26 Mar
Nothing to report.

27 Mar
Northing to report. Advanced guard left for ‘Vestry’.

28 Mar
Adjutant’s Parade. The Bn represented by No 3 Coy won the Brigade Cross Country run. The Advanced party of 77th Field Regt moved in.

29 Mar
Church Parade.

30 Mar
No 1 Coy carried out MAP READING exercises.

31 Mar
No 3 Coy carried out digging and wiring in Dumfries sub-area defences.

 

War diary April 1942

1 Apr
2, 4 & Detachments of HQ Coy returned training in the XXXX & Co Area, XXXX Argyllshire.

2 Apr
The day was spent in Administration.

3 Apr
Baggage was loaded onto MT vehicles and trains. A parade service (C of E) was held in the Mill at 0730 hrs.

4 Apr
The Bn moved to Blairgowrie, Perthshire by MT and rail. The Corps of Drums beat Long XXXX.

5 Apr
All attendance at Divine Service was voluntary. Coys started settling into billets spread over the whole town of Blairgowrie Rattray. The Offs mess was centralized but the Sgts messed in Coys.

6 Apr
The Bn baggage arrived at Blairgowrie by rail. The Comdr 1st Gds Bde visited the Bn at 1100 hrs.

7 Apr
Much work had to be done to billets in the new area. This was done by first Pioneers and attached REs.

8 Apr
The Comdg Officer proceeded on leave and Major E.R. Hill assumed command of the Bn.

9Apr
Work on billets continued and recces of training areas were carried out.

10 Apr
The Comdr of the newly formed 1st Independent Gds Bde inspected the billeting area.

11 Apr
Adj Parade in the morning was held in the grounds of Rattray school to the delight of most of the pupils of the school.

13 Apr
Bn ordered to remobilize to F 2 Scale Mortar Pl now get 7 carriers.

14 Apr
Lt L Dawnay tok over the job of Adj during the absence of Lord Long as A/Bde Major.

15 Apr
Coy training all day.

16 Apr
Commanding Off returned from leave. Coy training.

17 Apr
Maj Hill went on leave also Q.M. Coy training.

18 Apr
Adj’s Parade in the morning with Corps of Drums. Major Drummond Murray came pm to inspect local Rifle Ranges. Sgt’s dance in the evening.

19 Apr
Church Parade for 1 Coy in the morning. Commanding Officer’s conference in the afternoon on promotions. Very good Ensa concert in evening.

20 Apr
Maj Adeane took over O.C. Bn during absence of Col J.A. Forster as A/Brigadier. No 1 Coy went off to Moulin village to train.

21 Apr
Coy training. Two Instructors sent off to train RASC Coy.

22 Apr
Conference @ Bde HQ am. Lecture @ Dundee pm attended by Sinclair Stevenson & Baxendale. Coy Trng.

23 Apr
Major Adeane recced the new Bn concentration Area. All Offs and Other ranks recalled from Coursel. Col Forster came over and watched a very good demonstration of street fighting in afternoon by 4 Coy.

24 Apr
News received of our having to send off an adv party. No one knows where to.

25 Apr
Adv party standing by. Destination still unknown. Adj’s Pde in morning. Cpl’s dance in evening. No 1 Coy returned from 5 days Bivouacing.



26 Apr
Adv party 3 Offs & 50 ORs left in evening. We know not where, nor did they. This must be nearly unique.

27 Apr
1 & 3 Coys carried out exs all day on an assault & obstacle course near Dundee.

28 Apr
Bn Ex under Major Hill practicing the bringing up and distribution of ammunition. One NCO per Coy on a daily Explosive Course.

29 Apr
1st Line Reinforcements arrived very early am. 7 Offs and 187 ORs. After filling vacancies the remainder became the Relief Coy under Capt Sir J Pigott Brown. It is a long time since there have been 10 Ensigns in the Bn.

30 Apr
The Road Party consisting of 14 m/c 17 vehicles 2 Offs & 57 ORs left for destination unknown.

 

War diary May 1942

1 May
Rd party of 17 vehicles 7 14 m/cs left at dawn for the new area. Two Coys carried out training on the Assault Course at Dundee.

2 May
Day spent in packing up. Pm 3 Offs and 50 ORs took part in the march past in aid of the Blairgowrie weapon week.

3 May
The main body and the baggage party entrained in three parties for the new training area. The Reinf Coy under Capt Sir John Piggott Brown remained in Blairgowrie.

4 May
The Carrier pl left Blairgowrie for the new area. The main body arrived very early at Southampton & were shipped to the Isle of Wight. The Bn arrived at Nevis Castle, strength 750 inc Offs. During the first night a very sharp air raid took place on Cowes. No personnel in the Bn were injured.

5 May
No baggage arrived yet. The day spent settling in. Capt the Viscount Long resumed his duties as Adjt.

6 May
Baggage began arriving at Ryde. Baggage parties were dispatched and confusion was considerable owing to the destruction of tpt arrangements by enemy action. 1 & 3 Coys were allotted ALCs for landing practice.

7 May
Unloading of baggage continued. Carriers & personnel were loaded onto TLCs and experiments were made to decide upon the best method.

9 May
The Bn took part in a practice landing of all types of landing craft. The comfort in the camp is seriously diminished by the lack of water in the taps & glass in the windows, all due to enemy action on the night of 4/5 May.

10 May
Open air church parade in the morning. Recces of training areas were carried out during the day. The Corps of Drums, which had beat the ‘retreat’ in E Cowes on 9 May successfully were to do the same in the main town at 1735 hrs today. This unfortunately had to be cancelled owing to bad weather.



11 May
1& 2 Coys were allotted the Field Firing Ranges. 3& 4 Coys carried out range practice into the sea.

12 May
1& 3 Coys carried out exercises in cooperation with ‘B’ Sgn 4 8 or P RJR. HQ Coy carried out range practice. 2 Coy held a Drill Parade on the Square at Albany Barracks, Newport.

13 May
Exercise ‘Walter’ - 1 Gds Bde – was cancelled. Adj’s Parade for 3 & 4 Coys and the Corps of Drums at Albany Barracks. The first time the Bn has seen a Barracks Square since the beginning of the war.

14 May
Adj’s Parade for 1 & HQ Coys at Albany Barracks. 1 & 2 Coys and details of HQ Coy embarked on HMS Josephine Charlotte. Stores were loaded into TLCs.

15 May
3 Coy and details of 4 & HQ Coy boarded TLCs. Ex ‘Walter’ took place , the Bn getting back to camp at about 2000 hrs. 1st Gds Bde & Bn Op listed and attached to this summary.

16 May
2 Coy & details of 1 Coy & HQ Coy received orders to XXXX back in HMS ….

17 May
Open air church service in the morning. Captain Nelson R.T.R. gave indtruction and demonstration with flame throwers to all ranks of the Bn in the afternoon. In the evening details of 2 Coy & HQ Coy embarked in HMS Prince Albert for training.

18 May
The party on board ship carried out practice landings from ALC throughout the morning. Further practices had been arranged that night but could not be carried out owing to rough weather.

19 May
Further practices were carried out from ALC in the morning. Meanwhile No 3 & 4 Coys did two day Pln marches, bivouacking in the open air in bad weather.

20 May
1st Gds Bde Ex WILLIAM 1 was arranged for early am May 20. Part of the Bn XXXX provided enemy. A thick mist prevailed throughout the Solent & XXXX the whole Bde Group only one Coy & HQ of 3 Gren Gds succeeded in landing. After cruising in ALC for some hours unable to pick up their bearings the remainder were forced to return to their ships. In the evening the party disembarked & returned to Nevis castle.
21 May
The Bn left Nevis castle for Blairgowrie in three different groups, a baggage & carrier party, road party, & rail party. The latter under Major E.R. Hill was met at Southampton by Lt Gen Lloyd.

22 May
The rail party arrived punctually at COUPAR ANGUS at 1250 & was met by MT & conveyed to BLAIGOWRIE.

23 May
Coys at the disposal of Coy Comds. Lt Gen Sir Arthur Smith KCB, DSO, MC, arrived after lecturing in PERTH to visit the Bn. The baggage party under Lt Chichester arrived BLAIRGOWRIE STN 2330 hrs.

24 May
Whit Sunday. Parade service in Town Hall taken by Rev MacDonald. Gen Sir A Smith gave a lecture at 1400 hrs to all ranks of the Bn lasting an hour on the Middle East. The General left at 1515 hrs.

25 May
The road party arrived under Captain de Knoop. Normal Coy training.

26 May
News was received from the Commg Offr that the final exercise had been cancelled owing to bad weather. Drill parade for the remnants of 1 & 2 Coys. Route march for No 4 Coy.

27 May
Nos 1 & 3 Coys carried out route marches, dinner in the field.

28 May
Coys did weapon training & interior economy throughout the day. The Bn night exercise started at 2330 hrs & was carried out in the area BRIDGE OF CALLY.

29 May
The exercise finished at 0630 hrs when the Bn had breakfast in the field and marched back to BALIRGOWRIE.

30 May
Bn drill parade in Rattray school playground, the Corps of Drums were on parade.

 

War diary June 1942

31 May
Church Parade for Reinforcement Coy in St Catherine’s Church, taken by Rev Duncan in the absence of the Padre.

1 June
No 4 Coy marched to BALNAKEILLY for a weeks bivouacking (about 25 miles).
No 1 Coy on the Field Firing Range digging defence positions.

2 June
No 1 Coy fired in RATTRAY CLASSIFICATION Range. 3 Coy digging in Field Firing Range.

3 June
Reinforcement Coy in BARRY LINKS Range firing. No 4 Coy patrolling. Rock and mountain climbing.

4 June
3 Coy fired in RATTRAY CLASSIFICATION Range.

5 June
The remainder of the Bn who had been in operation ‘Lancing’ returned from leave. Col S.A. Forster resumed command of the Bn. No 2 Coy carried out a river crossing exercise.

6 June
Bn Drill Parade in Rattray school playground.

7 June
Church parade for No 4 Coy in St Catherine’s Church. Voluntary service YMCA hall at 1100 hrs.

8 June
No 2 Coy digging posns on Field Firing range. 4 Coy night patrols.

9 June
The Reinforcement Coy fired in RATTRAY Clarification range. The Commanding Officer held a Coy Comds conference at 1715. The Adjutant returned from leave.

10 June
3 Coy detached at Balnakeilly House, Pitlochery, since 8.6.42 carried out assault and rock climbing practice.

11 June
Weapon training in billets for all in preparation for a Bn night exercise which had to be cancelled owing to torrential rain.
12 June
4 Coy were allotted Rattray Range.

13 June
Adj’s parade in the morning. The Carrier Pln at full strength carried out an adv gd ex. 3 Coy returned to Blairgowrie after a 40 mile cross country march in 24 hrs.

14 June
2 Coy held a Parade Service. The Comg Off held a conference on the forthcoming Bn Ex no 22.

15 June
The Comdg Off, Adj, S.O. & I.O. attending a lecture & demonstration in aircraft support control at Crieff.

16 June
The Bn carried out Ex no 22 in accordance with the att’d general & special XXXX.

17 June
2 Coy fired in Barry Links Range with 3 & 4 Coys. 1 Coy gave a XXXX tactics demonstration to St Andrew’s S.T.C.

18 June
2 fired in Rattray Classification Range & 3 carried out a withdrawal exercise.

19 June
The Reinf Coy carried out a route march. Remainder W.T. & pay. A Cpl’s dance was held in the evening.

20 June
Adj’s Parade in the morning. A Cpl’s XXXX was arranged in Dundee.

21 June
HQ Coy attended church parade service. The Comg Off held a conference on the forthcoming Bn Ex no 23. In the evening the Bn choir, D/Sgt Knight’s Silver Band and a congregation of personnel of the Bn and local inhabitants of Blairgowrie held a broadcast service of hymns in St Andrew’s Church. This was relayed over the Home Forces Programme & Middle east Services. It is hoped that the 3rd Bn found time to listen in! A copy of the programme of this service is attached.

22 June
The Bn carried out a MT exercise in cooperation with A/Tk and LAA guns. Details are att’d.



23 June
The XX 204 A/Tk Bty att’d to the Bn for 10 days for mutual training gave demonstrations to 2 & 3 Coys.

24 June
1 Coy carried out an exercise with the XX XX A/Tk Bty. HQ & Reinf Coys fired in Barry Links Ranges. 3 Coy practiced the admin of a Coy in an outpost position and the withdrawal . During the night 24/5 June the Reinf Coy, Carrier Pln & 2 Dets Mortar Pln carried out an exercise ‘Lulu’ with 3 GG and the Home Guard. Major E.R. Hill commanded a Coy and miscellaneous force of Coldstream and Home Guards.
During the afternoon D/Sgt Knight’s Silver Band played in the ‘enclosure’ at a large sports meeting held by the 1st Indep Bde Gp (Gds) RASC Coy. The sports were highly successful & the band played very well indeed but the enjoyment of such Coldstream Offrs attending who had either an ear for music or recollection of peace time soldiering was marred by the fact that the D/Sgt’s party was somewhat euphemistically described on the programme of events as ‘the band of the Coldstream Guards’!

25 June
4 Coy carried out an exercise with the Sp A/Tk Bty.

26 June
2 Coy fired on Rattray Range. 1 7 3 Coys held an inter Coy sports meeting in the afternoon.

27 June
Adj’s Parade in the morning. HQ Coy fired Mointeith Range.

28 June
Parade Service for 1 Coy in 1 Coy lines.

29 June
A W.T. XXXX course was started under the W.T.O. Lt J Baxendale, Chief Instructor Pickles (3 Coy). HQ Coy fired Rattray Range & 3 Coy carried out an exercise in cooperation with XX XX 26 fd Bty RA.

30 June
One Coy carried out a section competition. Two Gdsmen and a L/Cpl of the Reinf Coy were instrumental in saving the life of a XXXX girl in danger of drowning. An account of this incident will be att’d to rear XXXX this war diary.

 

War diary July 1942

1 July
2 Coy practiced the defence of a river line.

2 July
1 Coy with two secs Carriers & two Dets Mortars under comd practiced ‘convoying’ 30 RASC lorries through enemy infested territory. The route was picketed by one pln each from 2, 3, & 4 Coy & the ‘enemy’ consisted of Coy XXXX led by Capt Windsor Clive & one XXXX tp 26 Fd Bty RA.

3 July
Major General V Evelegh OBE Comdr 78th Division visited the Bn in the afternoon. His tour of the area included a street fighting demonstration by 3 Coy and a drill parade by 1 Coy.

4 July
Adj’s parade in the morning. The Comdg Off attended a defence discussion at HQ 1st Indep Bde Gp (Gds).

5 July
Church parade for 3 Coy.

6 July
2 Coy carried out an exercise in cooperation with one tp 26 Fd Bty RA, The Sgts had an enjoyable outing in Dundee.

7 July
The Regt’s Lt Col visited the Bn accompanied by the assistant Regtl Adjutant. 1 Coy demonstrated methods of mess tin cooking.

8/9/10 July
The Bn took part in 1st Indep Bde Gp (Gds) Ex ‘Bolo’ according to the att’d instructions.

11 July
The day was largely spent ‘cleaning up’, the weather having been abominable throughout the ex. The AA Gd Det Pln (incl all personnel of the Corps of Drums) returned from a fortnight’s AA course at North Berwick. During this course the Anti Tank Pln was formed, 6 2 pdr guns being taken over from A/Tk Bty RA. The Pln is administered by the reinf Coy and commanded by Lord Leveson recently returned from Bde HQ where he had been Liason Officer.

12 July
Church Parade in the morning.


13 July
1 Coy carried out Field Firing at Balduff Hill. 3 Coy fired on Rattray Range.

14 July
Bn sports were held on Blairgowrie High Schools Ground. 4 Coy were the vistors in a closely fought competition which was marred by a heavy rain storm after the tea interval. The storm had at least the admirable effect of canceling the ‘Officer’s Race’!

15 July
3 Coy carried out a forced march. The Adj left to attend a two day Bde HQ exercise.

16 July
4 Coy carried out a forced march.

17 July
HQ and 4 Coys carried out firing practice on XXXX Range. The Sec 86 Mortar Coy R.E. (C.W.) started an attachment to the Bn of one week. They bivouacked in the field behind 2 Coy area and gave 4” mortar demonstrations to 1 & 3 Coys.
Adj’s Parade for 1 Coy in the morning.

18 July
Adj’s Bn Parade in the morning. The Sec 86 Coy R.E. gave a demonstration to the Reinf Coy. The Comdg Off met the V Corps Comdr at Bde HQ.

19 July
Bn Parade service for all denominations in the morning.

20 July
4 Coy carried out an Ex with one tp 26 Fd.
Bty RA and 3 Coy & 2 Coy fired in Barry Links Range.

21 July
1 Coy carried out a route march and 3 Coy bicycle training, ie, drill etc with bicycles recently issued on a scale of one per man for one Pln in each Rifle Coy.

22 July
A M.T. Drive for unloaded Bn vehicles was held in the morning. In the evening personnel unable swim received instruction in the Perth swimming baths. This normally takes place every Monday & Wednesday evening.

23 July
The First Army Comdr, Lt Gen ECA Screiber C.B., D.S.O., visited the Bde and inspected 1 & 3 Coys in the field. 1 Coy carried out an exercise in cooperation with one tp 26 Fd Bty RA. Sir John Child commanded the Coy having taken over from Cap C.H. Fisher the day before. 3 Coy carried out a Field Firing Exercise in Balduff Hill and the Sec of 86 (Mortar) Coy R.E. att’d to the Bn fired their 4 1/2” mortars. (4 and a half)
24 July
2 Coy carried out a Coy Exercise making use of the bicycle Pln. 1 Coy Plns practiced the final assault.

25 July.
Adj’s Parade in the morning. The Comdg Off held a Defence BWT for all Officers. The 2 l/c Capt Brittin & the Hon P.L. Kindersley and 2/Lt HRB Callander left to represent the Bn HQ in 78 Div Ex ‘Tyro’.

26 July
Parade Service for 4 Coy in the morning. Ex ‘Tyro’ ended.

27 July
1 Coy were allotted assault and recce boats. 2 Coy carried out a Defence Patrol Exercise. The A/TK Pln carried out an Encounter & Attack Exercise.

28 July
4 Coy fired in Rattray Range.

29 July
1 Coy fired in Barry Links Range. 4 Coy were allotted the assault and recce boats. In the afternoon a conference was held at Bn HQ on Exercise ‘Dryshod’ – set by G. H.Q. – which was attended by the Adj, I.O., S.O., & S/M.

30 July
4 Coy were allotted the Field Firing Range in Balduff Hill. 2 Coy carried out training with the assault and recce boats.

31 July
In the afternoon a few tps XXXX Bn took part in a sports meeting run by 2 Hamps. It was in no sense of the word a representation Bn team but some success was achieved. The Comdg Off attended a conference at Bde HQ on Exercise ‘Dryshod’.

List of Appendeces
1. Exercise ‘Bolo’.

 

War diary August 1942

1 Aug
The day was largely spent preparing for Ex ‘Dryshod’. In the early afternoon all landing table serials paraded for final checking.

2 Aug
The Bn set out for Exercise ‘Dryshod’, an account of wich together with all orders and instructions appertaining thereto is attached to this summary as Apps ‘A’ & ‘B’.

10 Aug
The Bn returned from ‘Dryshod’ late in the evening.

11 Aug
The day was spent cleaning up and inspecting arms, clothing and equipment.

12 Aug
The Bde Comdr, 1st Guards Bde, directed that 48 hrs should be spent in rest & recreation after ‘Dryshod’. Accordingly, inter Coy football matches & sports meetings were held.

13 Aug
Recreational training and demands for agricultural assistance in respect of picking raspberries in the area were met by spare men of the Coy in waiting and one other Coy being made available for this work. It is thought likely that these demands will go on for some time.

14 Aug
Raspberry picking continued and Coy officers reported that farmers found it difficult to provide the men with liquid refreshment to the value of 1/6d. This is due to rationing and the local shortage of beer. Anticipated that this situation will become more acute.

15 Aug
CO assumed temporary command of the Bde and Major ER Hill of the Bn. Our Padre (Wansey) left us to go to 78 Div HQ. The Bn will miss him.

16 Aug
Voluntary services in local churches.

17 Aug
Coy training resumed and raspberry picking continued. All officers attended a lecture by an Officer from 26 Ed Bty on Inf Arty wireless cooperation.

18 Aug
The Regimental band of the Grenadier Guards visited us and gave a concert at the Town Hall in the afternoon. Local notabilities and friends of the Bn were invited. The band also played at a Guardsman’s dance in the evening. Officers down to Os C Coys attended a conference on DRYSHOD at HAMILTON.

19 Aug
Raspberry picking and Coy training.

20 Aug
Raspberry picking and Coy training. All carriers were sent to Command workshop at STIRLING.

21 Aug
Raspberry picking and Coy training.

22 Aug
A pouring wet day – interior economy in billets.

23 Aug
Parade service for No 2 Coy in St Catherine’s Church. Voluntary services for remainder.

24 Aug
Detachments from No 2 Coy were sent to CLUNIE, CAPUTH and BR OF CALLY to help local farmers with harvesting. This is part of a Bde scheme arranged with PERTH. Sub area Coy ope training for remainder.

25 Aug
2 Coy on harvesting. Remainder on Coy training.

26 Aug
Officers, WOs and Sergeants attended a lecture by 2 i/c 148 RAC, subject cooperation of inf with Army Tanks & Arty. The lecture was introductory to forthcoming training with tanks at HAWICK.

27 Aug
2 Coy continued agricultural assistance. Remainder on Coy training.

28 Aug
No 2 Coy were relieved by No 1 Coy in the harvesting area.

29 Aug
Adjutant’s Drill Parade at RATTRAY SCHOOL. Considering that this was the first parade for some weeks, the standard of smartness was good. The Bn, headed by the Corps of Drums, marched through BLAIRGOWRIE. Leave was increased to 20% by authority of 1 Gds Bde.



30 Aug
Parade Service for HQ Coy in St Catherine’s Church. A draft of 66 men who arrived on 29 August were inspected and addressed by Major Hill. They included 10 Driver Operators.

31 Aug
The Bn carried out Ex No 25, an exercise embodying a XXXX marching and MT Column being attacked by tanks and aircraft. Owing to bad visibility the aircraft could not fly. Carden Lloyd carriers from the A/TK Pl acted as enemy tanks and the A/TK Pl had the first opportunity of trying tactical XXXX.