Great photo's How different from when I was in Holland. Its odd... But at the time of Market Garden we made the assault crossing of the Escaut Canal near Lille St Hubert, One in the morning and a real horror of an action..... imprinted on my mind for ever! Thing is... does anyone have any photos of that area. For where we crossed the canal had steep concrete banks. That made it damn near impossible to drag the great heavy canvas boats up the side....While under heavy fire and oddly enough....Bombing We made the assault bridge to get across, the main bridge builders came up and made a Bailey in the morning. Nevber forgot it. A good mate suffered a breakdown and could not take part.
Dear All, I am writing an article about my father's WW2 experiences and their impact on him. He is still alive (at 88). It has been suggested, that I post his story in this thread, and I would appreciate any comments that might help me develop a better immediate context for his WW2 experiences. His name is: John Patrick Field (Private), Royal Hampshires, 1 st Battallian. He was at Gold Beach, Hottot, Villiers Bocage and across France, and with their move into Belgium and their support of the Guards Armoured Division during Operation Market Garden, he was injured in the vicinity North of Nijmegen. He can't remember the location, but it does seem very likely that this occurred on 'the Island', although on another occasion several years back he spoke of the pounding they took, while crossing the Waal River, which led me to think it happened there. The injury involved mortar shrapnel to his cheek. On his return from injury in late November 1944, he was posted to the 5th HLI, with whom he remained until after the war ends. I am particularly interested to find more information about the Royal Hampshire period. I do have his service number. Any tips or thoughts from senior members will be greatly appreciated. Best wishes Sean Field
