War Diary: 1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS, Jan 1944 - Dec 1944

Discussion in 'The Brigade of Guards' started by dbf, Feb 25, 2013.

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    C.O.s ORDERS, 9th August, 1944.
    1. Regrouping is to take place on a Division and Brigade level.
    GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION is to take over part of the sector occupied by 11th ARMOURED DIVISION.

    2. 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS and 2nd Armoured Battalion IRISH GUARDS Group to come u/c 32nd BRIGADE.
    1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS and 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS Group to come u/c 5th BRIGADE.

    3. 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS and a Squadron of 2nd Armoured Battalion IRISH GUARDS will relieve 1st HEREFORDS at Pt. 218 (7036, Sheet 6F/6).
    Move to be completed by 1200 hours.

    4. 2nd Armoured Battalion IRISH GUARDS less a Squadron to go to LA BARBIERE (6937, Sheet 6F/6).

    5. 1st Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS to relieve WARWICKS at FORGUES (6835, Sheet 6F/6).

    6. 2nd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS to go LE BRIEN (6836, Sheet 6F/6).

    7. 1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS less a Squadron to go to BURCY (6934, Sheet 6F/6).

    8. ROUTES
    (A. Tracks.):- ST. CHARLES DE PERCY - Track Junction 683399 (Sheet 6F/6), PT. 218 (Sheet 6F/6, Ref 708364), thence West down Main Road to FORGUES, then Left to BURCY.
    Head not to Cross 708364 (Sheet 6F/6) before 1900 hours.
    (B. Wheels.):- ST. CHARLES DE PERCY, 675389, PT. 218 6836 then

    9. 1st Recce Battalion WELSH GUARDS will relieve 1st HEREFORDS at LE BAS PERRIER 7334 (Sheet 6F/6).

    10. 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS and No. 2 Squadron will relieve MONMOUTHS at SOURDEVALLE 710338 (Sheet 6F/6), Route via 675389 (Sheet 6 F/6).

    No move before 1800 hours.

    Order of March - 3. H.Q. 1. F2.
     
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    GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION INT SUMMARY No. 31
    Up to 2300 hours 9 Aug 1944
    This Summary must be destroyed within 48 hours of receipt

    PART I
    A. ENEMY SITUATION
    The expected counter attack against the Americans at MORTAIN today did not materialise, and there are signs that some of the German tks in that area have been going away. Further East American recce is reported in ALENCON and nearer to us the Americans after capturing Pt 251 6430 yesterday, today have patrols on Pt 232 6528, which was reported unoccupied.
    The Canadians’ fwd tps were this evening reported six miles North of FAILAISE; having broken through 89 Inf Div they are now reported to be fighting one of the PGRs of 12 SS Div, the other being engaged with our br hd over the ORNE. On our own sector of the front, the American capture of Pt 251 obliged the enemy between the 65 & 69 Northing to withdraw South of the main rd leading East from VIRE. It is possible that 10 SS Pz Div has gone over to the FALAISE sector. It is possible that most, if not all of the Wehrmacht fmns in the line North of ESTRY have recently received rfts.
    On our own front, the question arises, whether 10 SS Pz Div has gone to fight for FALAISE. The considerable mov of tks and MET reported by Tac R around FALAISE this morning and this afternoon may have been almost any of the German Pz Divs, but the betting is on 10 SS Pz Div having gone. The only indication of this, other than Tac R and surmise is that 4 PW of 600 Eng Bn who got lost and wandered into our lines just East of VIRE yesterday evening, state that 600 Pi Bn who had been in CHENEDOLLE were withdrawn last night and relieved by another fmn. He did not know which fmn, or whether they were SS or Wehrmacht tps. It will be remembered that 600 Pi Bn arrived with and worked very closely with 10 SS Pz Div. If 10 SS has gone, it is not clear exactly who has taken over the gap they leave. 9 SS Pz Div and 3/5 Para Divs will probably share it. 9 SS Pz Div were identified in ESTRY yesterday and it is possible that their left hand boundary is the railway running SE from square 6931. West of them is probably 3 Para Div reinforced by remains of 5 Para Div and 6 Para Regt. 363 Inf Div were responsible for VIRE before its capture, and 140 PW were captured in VIRE yesterday by the Americans from 959 GR. Therefore the boundary between 3 Para Div and 363 Inf Div probably runs immediately to the East of VIRE.
    During last night and this morning there was a slight withdrawal by the enemy to South of the rd running East from VIRE. The fwd tps of a neighbouring fmn are now deployed along the gen line of that rd and it looks as though the enemy have gone back to the high ground area Pt 312 6929 and on the high ground all round that Pt. VIESSOIS 6931 contains enemy. Patrols form a neighbouring fmn reported small arms fire from ponts 800 yds SW and 600 yds SE of ROULLOURS. It is not thought that there has been any considerable withdrawal on this sector but merely that the enemy parachutists have drawn back from the salient they were in once the Americans captured Pt 251. The only indication that the parachutists are in fact still there has been a report by a patrol that they saw the tin hats and smocks peculiar to parachutists worn by German soldiers this evening. The last identification of 3 Para Div (8 Para Regt) was two days ago.
    9 SS Pz Div has reorganised according to PW, three weeks ago, Following the form of 10 SS Pz Div, both PGRs have been amalgamated into one, called Battle Group ZOLLHILFE, except for the “armd” Pz Gren coys of the two regts which have been placed under comd 9 SS Pz Regt. Thus 9 SS Pz Div is now operating in two gps, one armd and one inf. It is not clear whether this extends to SS fmns. It probably does. The new identification of 460 Bn of 160 Trg Regt at LA CAVERIE 7640 yesterday turned out to be rfts for 125 PGR. Some PW sent to 326 and 276 Inf Divs were very fresh and had only been with their units a week. They had come from Jaeger Ers Regiment 75, Res Gren Bns 110, 212 and 351. PW taken from these were mostly Poles and had no intention of fighting.
    Tac R today has shown a great deal of mov both of tks met and inf in and around FALAISE. They also reported a large explosion at Z 3397 which was probably a dump going up, as well as dug-in tks and guns along the line U 3254 -3340 - 3130. On the whole, the mov of tks and MET was from the SE and SW and West going North, which will almost certainly be parts at least of an armd div (? 10 SS) going to fight the Canadians. A little mov was spotted going East from FALAIS but it is not thought that this indicates an enemy gen withdrawal nor should undue importance be attached to it. Amerian fwd tps reported 60 tks this evening moving in front of MORTAIN at 1945 hours. American Tac R reported at 2125 hours 30 - 40 tks moving North between 7127 and 7123. This will no doubt be part of the armour from MORTAIN being directed to other parts of the front, exactly where it is premature to say.

    B. AIR
    Of the 84 tks claimed by the Air Forces in the attacks on 7 Aug, 59 have already been counted by ground tps. It is scarcely likely that the report, therefore, was exaggerated.
    During the period 14 - 22 Jul our LAA Regiment shot down 3 FW 190s and 4 ME 109s.

    C. CONCLUSION AND DEDUCTIONS
    Tonight’s picture is unfortunately not a very clear one. Two questions predominate. First, has 10 SS gone away; and second, are the parachutists on the high ground SE of VIRE. The answer to both those questions is probably “Yes”. But tomorrow may produce the answer if 10 SS are identified by the Cdns or the Poles, and if air photos show any considerable digging to the East and West of Pt 312 6930.
    There have been rumours of a gen enemy withdrawal beginning on this sector. It is not thought that this is likely at the moment. There is every indication that the enemy, for the time being, will hold the line ST JEAN LE BLANC 8042 - ESTRY and probably on through CHENEDOLLE to Pt 312. As the Americans adv South of VIRE so this line will steadily swing round. But so long as the Germans intend to maintain any coherence in their line which is not ouflanked from the South and broken through in the North, it is very much in their interest to keep this flank secure whilst the inf conduct as orderly a withdrawal as they can on the few rds that remain to the inf conduct as orderly a withdrawal as they can on the few rds that remain to them. There will no doubt be reports soon of enemy inf mov East and trying to get across the SEINE but the situation, through desperate for the Germans, is not yet so desperate as to warrant the abandonment of all the inf in order to extricate the armour.
    At APPENDIX ‘A’ is a translation from an Interrogation Report. This is especially interesting in that it reveals the degree of control which the FUHRER’s H.Q. exercises over the Field Commanders.

    Signed Lieutenant Colonel,
    GS,
    GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION
    B.L.A.


    PART II

    ORGANISATION

    116 Pz Div
    A document of 24 Jul indicate the following as the org of the div.
    Div H.Q.
    116 Pz Recce Unit
    66 Feldgendarmerie Sec
    16 Pz Regt
    60 PGR
    156 PGR
    228 A Tk Unit
    146 AR
    675 Eng Bn (Different from the number previously issued)
    281 Army Flak Bn (new identification)
    228 Sigs Bn
    66 Services.

    Several paybooks do not, however, seem to have been changed and the trg unit of the old trg div appear as the last entry. The trg org is therefore repeat below.
    179 Pz Trg Div
    1 Tk Trg Bn
    81 PG Trg Regt of 1,6 and 59 Trg Bns
    29 PG Trg Regt of ?15 and ?17 Trg Bns
    241 PG Trg Regt of 355 and 367 Trg Bns
    29 (Mot) Arty Trg Regt

    16 Pz Regt
    From captured documents it appears that 16 Pz Regt of 116 Pz Div consisted on 2 Jul of:-
    I/Grossdeutschland Pz Regt
    II/24 Pz Regt
    II/16 Pz Regt
    but only the last two were in on 24 Jul.

    The documents indicated that these three bns contained at least some Mk III and Mk IV tks. I Bn 24 Pz Regt was reported by an Austrian Sgt deserter to have arrived on the American Sector on 28 Jul with 80 Panthers to reinforce 2 Pz Div. 24 Pz Div to which this bn belongs was identified late as Jul 1944 by the Russians fighting in the Southern Gp of Germans ?
    Its I Bn seems to have followed the current fashion of reequipping with Panthers in FRANCE.

    89 Inf Div
    Comd: Genlt HEINFICHS
    Wehrkreis: X (HAMBURG)

    1055 GR
    I Bn
    II Bn
    III Bn
    1956 GR
    I Bn
    II Bn
    III Bn
    189 Arty Regt
    189 A Tk Bn
    189 Engr Bn
    189 Fus Bn
    189 Sigs Bn
    Services - 198.

    NOTES: Formed Feb 1944 as part of a new wave. It was sent to NORWAY late Feb 1944. Towards the middle and end of Jun 1944 it moved down to the area immediately behind the DIEPPE sector, there it remained until its recent move to the battle area.
    The div has been identified by PW from 1055 GR in the area South of BOURGEBUS, where it is relieving 1 SS Pz Div. PWs were also taken from 1056 GR in the area MAY SUR ORNE.

    10 SS Pz Regt
    A PW taken from 8 Coy 10 SS Pz Regt was in 4 Coy. He states I Bn has only four Panthers for trg purposes and that the dvrs have all gone to GERMANY to collect 17 Panthers for each coy of I Bn. I Bn has only once been identified before from a marked map area MT. PINCON. This PW, whose statement is unconfirmed, can give no estimate of the time when the party of dvrs are expected back with the tks.

    21 SS PGR
    PW and docs indicate strengths night 6 Aug as under:
    9 Coy 80
    10 Coy 80
    11 Coy 40 (less hy cas suffered in counter attack 7 Aug)

    3 and 5 Para Divs
    PW confirm what was long becoming apparent that the two divs have been amalgamated.

    9 SS Pz Div
    4/19 SS PGR. Org stated by PW to be:

    Inf Gun Pl, 3 x 7.5 cm guns
    A Tk Pl, 3 x 7.5 cm Pak
    Mortar Pl, 8 x 8.1 cm Mortars

    Emblems
    1. Werfer Lehr Regt 1
    PW state the following to be the emblem of this regt:-
    The background of the shield is red, the triangle is white and the L the Claret Waffenfarbe of Smoke tps.

    The base of the triangle follows the normal ‘subunit’ colour sequence i.e.
    I Bn = White
    II Bn = Red
    III Bn = Yellow

    2. 14 Hy Projector Regt
    The emblem of the regt is as follows:
    The ‘H’ appears to follow the normal colour sequence for I, II, and III Bns.

    IDENTIFICATIONS
    9, 10, 11 Coys 21 SS PGR, 7034, 6/7 August, With elts of II Bn on Left. Docs indicate 21 SS PGR took over from 20 SS PGR.

    3/600 Engr Bn, 718338, 6 August, Str 80. Fighting as Inf sp by 2 Army Tigers on Right of III/21 SS PGR. 2/600 Eng Bn also in area.

    7/192 PGR, LASSY 061730, PW

    II/16 Pz Regt, 7034, 6/7 August, Well North of area of main counter offensive.

    Elts 158 Trg Div, ST MALO, 6 August, Last known holding coastal sector from the LOIRE South to the GARONNE.


    708 Div
    II/748 Inf Reg, LAVAL, 6 August, Was holding coast West of BORDEAUX.

    9 Pz Div
    10 PGR, MAYENNE, 6 August, Used to attack American forces.

    2 Para Div Elts, Y 3553, 6 August, PW

    84 Div
    1051 GR, 5623, 6 August, Believing 116 Pz Div - ordered to hold line CHAMP DU BOULT - VIRE.

    The Gren Coys of 84 Div are up to str i.e. 180 men but they are all very inexperienced.

    363 Inf Div
    2/959, 617342, 6 August, Deserters stat they have been holding posn to cover withdrawal of paratroops South of VIRE.

    OWN AREA
    3 SS Pz Pi Bn 9, 710383, ?date, Destroyed MC and armd half track found.

    ENEMY METHODS
    Further details of the Siegfried Line Service.
    These postcards are issued to British PW with the promise that, completed with a fifteen-word message, and address to an army address for onward transmission to relatives, they will be fired into our lines. Skilfully guided by the interrogator and the lay-out of the card British PW may easily address these to a friend or their unit comd - falling into the trap and giving away their unit - or some unit on the British Front.

    Some 20 such postcards were fired over British lines nigh 6/7 August which were supposed to have been written by recently captured PW. They were fired from propaganda rifle grenades.
     
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    APPENDIX A.
    A GERMAN CORPS H.Q.
    Extracts from Interrogation Report on Cpl of H.Q. 84 Corps captured 2nd August near BRECEY.

    Preamble.
    PW was a typist in the BGS’ office of 84 Corps. He is keen and observant: his infm seems reliable.

    Order of Battle.
    The 2nd SS Das Reich detached from 84 Corps. The 9th SS Frunsberg was to take its place. 319 Div is still in the CHANNEL ISLANDS. (On HITLER’s order, div is to defend to the last). The div was provided with three month’s supply of food and amn.

    Personalities.
    84 Corps G.O.C. - Genlt ELLFELDT, formerly G.O.C. of a div in the PAS DE CALAIS area.

    General.
    PW describes the situation at his corps as utterly confused. Corps lost contact with its divs, and the Americans were advancing so fast that Corps H.Q. had to displace daily. PW knows of no new fixed def posns; only direction was given in the retreat order - SE. The retreat was disorderly; all kinds of vehs and tks jammed the rds and PW says that they were lucky that our fighters did not appear the morning of 1 August, because they could have easily destroyed the entire 2 SS and the remnants of 84 Corps.

    Shortages.
    The Corps had only 20% of the allotted amn str, there was a great shortage of wire. Lately the wire from the French telephone poles had to be used. The wires and switchboard of the Corps Sigs Coy were completely destroyed by our air force and they were never replaced.

    Installations.
    7th and 15th Army ann. and POL depot (12 June) in FORET DE DANDAINE, South of the main highway which passes through the forest - East of DOMFRONT.

    German knowledge of our plans.
    PW says that Gen MARCKS guessed rightly at the place of our invasion, but missed the time. On the very day of the invasion, all the Generals of Army Gp ‘B’ were supposed to have a conference in RENNES to plan pre-invasion manoeuvres. Most of the Generals were in RENNES already and were quite embarrassed.
    A few days after the invasion started, the Germans captured an American Captain who had a document listing our objectives and the divs participating.

    The Influence of HITLER.
    Corps or Army has no authority to order retreat or withdrawal, this has to come from HITLER’s H.Q.

    V.1.
    PW knew of the new weapon about one year before it was put in operation, because 84 Corps was charged with building the sites in the COTENTIN.
    65 Corps, located in the vicinity of PARIS, was charged with the building of the sites in the rest of FRANCE. Gen HEINEMANN was supposed to be in charge of this building programme. PW heard that it is possible to launch the V.1 from mobile projectors by use of rails.
    The discoverer of the weapon (a Col) was killed in an air attack on BERLIN about four months ago.

    New Weapon.
    PW heard from Lt FOUKET, air liaison offr from the 2nd Flieger Corps that soon Germany will have in operation the new “Turbine-Jaeger” which will sweep the American planes from the skies.

    (Source: XIX US Corps Periodic Report No. 53).
     
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    APPENDIX

    C.O.s ORDERS, 10th August, 1944.

    INFORMATION
    The enemy is weakening on 30 CORPS Front.
    U.S. Troops are advancing South of VIRE and North on ALENCON as well as going East. Fighting is going on in ANGERS.
    U.S. Troops are investing BREST. U.S. Tac/R reports a U.S. Warship entering BREST.

    3rd (BRITISH) DIVISION is advancing on TINCHBRAY.
    GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION, acting as flank guard, is being directed on to MONT CERISY, 8125.
    There will be bombers, weather permitting, and Typhoons at call.
    Attack will take place in 3 Phases, 5th BRIGADE on Right, 32nd on Left.


    PHASE I
    32nd BRIGADE at 0630 hours attacks the HOUSSEMAYNE Spur (1st Battalion WELSH GUARDS) with 3rd Tank Battalion SCOTS GUARDS in support.
    From 0730 hours to 1200 hours bombers will operate on Corps Front for 45 minutes.
    H. Hour for 5th BRIGADE will in any case not be after 0900 hours.

    PHASE II
    32nd BRIGADE advance to CHENDOLLE and 5th BRIGADE to line of road VIRE - VASSY (Whisky).

    PHASE III
    32nd BRIGADE advance to BOULAY-AUX-CHATS (7331) and 5th BRIGADE to conform on G.O.C.’s orders.

    5th BRIGADE will operate in two groups.
    (1) “HOT” GROUP - 1st Motor Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS and 2nd Armoured Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS
    (2) “COLD” GROUP - 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS and 1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GAURDS
    2 Tps of HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY REGIMENT will be with the Brigade.
    131 Bty 153 Field Regiment ROYAL ARTILLERY in support.

    MOVE
    Brigade will move 2 up as far as “Whisky”, when “COLD” Group will take the lead.


    BRIGADE ORDER OF MARCH:-
    “COLD” Group
    Brigade Tac/H.Q.
    “HOT” Group
    Q Bty 21st Anti-Tank Regiment ROYAL ARTILLERY
    2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS
    Brigade Main H.Q.

    “COLD” Group ORDER OF MARCH:-
    2 Coys of 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS
    2 Tps of No. 2 Squadron 1st Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    Scout Car and Tank - 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS H.Q.
    O.P. Tank
    2 Coys of 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS
    No. 3 Squadron 1st Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    No. 1 Squadron 1st Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    Recce Troop 1st Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    A.R.Vs
    3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS Support Company

    “F2” Echelon to remain at LE BOSCQ
     
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    Officer Field Returns

    [Officer Return Week Ending Personal Number Substantive Rank Higher Acting or Temporary Rank if held First Names Initials Surname Parent Regiment Division Date taken on Strength Whether present with Unit Appointment Held Date Assumed present Appointment Remarks including how employed if absent from unit Attached in Excess of W.E. less 1st Rfts. Date of Attachment Attached in Excess of W.E. less 1st Rfts. Nature of Attachment Officers in Strength counting against W.E. less 1st Rfts. Permanently Attached within W.E. (Full) - Nature of Attachment Officers Joined during Week - Unit from which joined Officers Quitted during Week - Location Officers whose Return to the Unit is particularly requested - Whereabouts if known]

    12 Aug 1944 23886 Major Lieutenant Colonel R MYDDELTON Coldstream Guards 16 May 1941 Yes Commanding Officer 9 Feb 1942
    12 Aug 1944 39274 Captain Major R F S GOOCH, MC Coldstream Guards 30 Sep 1943 Yes Second-in-Command 30 Sep 1943
    12 Aug 1944 36201 Captain Major W M FOX Coldstream Guards 18 Dec 1943 Yes Squadron Leader 18 Dec 1943
    12 Aug 1944 50866 Captain Major H R ALLSOPP, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 16 Feb 1940 Yes Squadron Leader 26 Feb 1942
    12 Aug 1944 32350 Captain Major W J St C ANSTRUTHER-GRAY, MC, MP Coldstream Guards 2 Oct 1943 Yes Squadron Leader 2 Oct 1943
    12 Aug 1944 40932 Captain G W H DAWNAY, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 8 Jul 1940 Yes Squadron 22 Feb 1943
    12 Aug 1944 65456 Captain G M K ST. CLAIR, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 6 Mar 1941 Yes Squadron 20 Jan 1943
    12 Aug 1944 107020 Lieutenant Captain - DENBIGH, The Earl of Coldstream Guards 11 Jun 1940 Yes M.T.O. 11 Feb 1943
    12 Aug 1944 77596 Lieutenant Captain A V PRIESTLEY Coldstream Guards 16 Jun 1941 Yes Squadron 16 Jun 1941
    12 Aug 1944 68162 Lieutenant Captain H CHISENHALE-MARSH Coldstream Guards 11 Jun 1940 Yes Squadron 20 Jan 1943
    12 Aug 1944 113731 Lieutenant Captain J E GULL Coldstream Guards 9 Jun 1941 Yes T.A. 11 Feb 1943
    12 Aug 1944 138620 Lieutenant Captain O P DAWNAY Coldstream Guards 22 Oct 1940 Yes Adjutant 12 Jun 1943
    12 Aug 1944 78257 Lieutenant Captain J N BINGHAM Coldstream Guards 5 Oct 1943 Yes Intelligence Officer 5 Oct 1943
    12 Aug 1944 89013 Lieutenant Captain J F PRIESTLEY Coldstream Guards 20 Jan 1944 Yes Squadron 5 Feb 1943
    12 Aug 1944 113730 Lieutenant N S C COLLIN Coldstream Guards 14 Jun 1940 Yes Troop 22 Nov 1943
    12 Aug 1944 113734 Lieutenant P F J F TOWERS-CLARK Coldstream Guards 7 Feb 1943 Yes A.A. Troop 7 Feb 1943
    12 Aug 1944 138621 Lieutenant T V HERMON Coldstream Guards 26 Feb 1941 Yes Troop 26 Feb 1941
    12 Aug 1944 164300 Lieutenant M A HAMILTON Coldstream Guards 3 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 3 Jul 1942
    12 Aug 1944 165023 Lieutenant O K HEYWOOD Coldstream Guards 15 Oct 1942 Yes Signals Officer 21 Apr 1943
    12 Aug 1944 156043 Lieutenant J H BADDELEY Coldstream Guards 26 Feb 1941 Yes G.O. 26 Feb 1941
    12 Aug 1944 229118 Lieutenant I A RODNEY Coldstream Guards 1 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 1 Jul 1942
    12 Aug 1944 186917 Lieutenant T M C BODLEY Coldstream Guards 27 May 1943 Yes Troop 27 May 1943
    12 Aug 1944 186916 Lieutenant B H G SPARROW Coldstream Guards 25 Sep 1941 Yes Troop 25 Sep 1941
    12 Aug 1944 233951 Lieutenant J A L LEE Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 25 Jul 1942
    12 Aug 1944 233952 Lieutenant P W LOYD Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 25 Jul 1942
    12 Aug 1944 243807 Lieutenant R T BOSCAWEN, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 16 Mar 1944 Yes Troop 16 Mar 1944
    12 Aug 1944 275674 Lieutenant J H T SUTTON Coldstream Guards 15 Feb 1944 Yes Troop 15 Feb 1944 12 Aug 1943
    12 Aug 1944 210583 Lieutenant S J H MIDDLEDITCH Coldstream Guards 15 Apr 1943 Yes Quartermaster 15 Apr 1943
    12 Aug 1944 240006 Lieutenant M E LOCK Coldstream Guards 28 Sep 1942 Yes Troop 28 Sep 1942
    12 Aug 1944 256492 Lieutenant P N PRATT Coldstream Guards 31 May 1943 Yes Troop 31 May 1943
    12 Aug 1944 268990 Lieutenant I L JARDINE Coldstream Guards 1 Jan 1944 Yes Troop 1 Jan 1944 1 Jan 1944
    12 Aug 1944 85276 Lieutenant P H HUNT Coldstream Guards 24 Dec 1941 No Squadron 24 Dec 1941
    12 Aug 1944 224212 Lieutenant H R HOWITT Coldstream Guards 11 Mar 1942 Yes Troop 11 Mar 1942
    12 Aug 1944 233950 Lieutenant P A M GELL Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 No Troop 25 Jul 1942 1st Reinforcement Attached 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    12 Aug 1944 297321 Lieutenant D C G JESSEL Coldstream Guards 17 Jul 1944 Yes Troop
    12 Aug 1944 293490 Lieutenant J K AMBLER Coldstream Guards 24 Apr 1944 Yes Troop 24 Apr 1944 Attached Guards Armoured Training Wing 9 Nov 1943
    12 Aug 1944 262112 Lieutenant K F C PARRINGTON Coldstream Guards No Troop
    12 Aug 1944 75569 Lieutenant Temporary Captain J L DARELL Coldstream Guards 1 Aug 1942 No Squadron 1 Aug 1942 5 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    12 Aug 1944 186906 Lieutenant S BIRCH Coldstream Guards 8 Nov 1943 No Troop 8 Nov 1943 6 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    12 Aug 1944 221859 Lieutenant Captain J THOMPSON Royal Army Medical Corps 1 Apr 1942 Yes Medical Officer 1 Apr 1942 Y
    12 Aug 1944 Captain A F WEIGALL Royal Army Chaplains Department 21 Oct 1943 Church of England Chaplain
    12 Aug 1944 75569 Lieutenant Temporary Captain J L DARELL Coldstream Guards 1 Aug 1942 No Squadron 1 Aug 1942 5 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    12 Aug 1944 186906 Lieutenant S BIRCH Coldstream Guards 8 Nov 1943 No Troop 8 Nov 1943 6 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    12 Aug 1944 297321 Lieutenant D C G JESSEL Coldstream Guards 17 Jul 1944 Yes Troop 9 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    12 Aug 1944 293490 Lieutenant J K AMBLER Coldstream Guards 24 Apr 1944 Yes Troop 24 Apr 1944 9 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    12 Aug 1944 85276 Lieutenant P H HUNT Coldstream Guards 24 Dec 1941 No Squadron 24 Dec 1941 9 Aug 1944 5th Guards Armoured Brigade
    12 Aug 1944 233950 Lieutenant P A M GELL Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 No Troop 25 Jul 1942 1st Reinforcement Attached 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC 10 Aug 1944 5th Guards Armoured Brigade
     
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    APPENDIX

    BATTALION ORDERS PART I BY LIEUTENANT-COLONEL R. MYDDELTON, COMMANDING 1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS

    No. 11, 16th August 1944.
    B.L.A.
    Last Part I Order issued No. 10 dated 9th August 1944.

    DISCIPLINE
    (i) The possession of any form of alcohol by tps is forbidden. In particular this order refers to Calvados and Cider.

    (ii) All unoccupied houses whether damaged or untouched by war are out of bounds to all tps.

    (iii) French civilian clothing found lying about in the vicinity of buildings will on no account be touched.
    Anyone in possession or wearing articles of such clothing will be reported and from the date of this order disciplinary action will be taken.

    (iv) All vegetables, in private gardens, or open fields, including potatoes, carrots, etc., will on no account be touched without the authority of an Officer.
    This applies equally whether in the battle area or not.

    Signed O.P. DAWNAY
    Captain & Adjutant,
    1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
     
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    Corbie to North of Arras

    1944 September 1
    Advance resumed to ARRAS.
    Harboured on high ground North of ARRAS, 3705, Sheet 73, 1:500,000 FRANCE & BELGIUM
    APPENDIX A.
    APPENDIX B.

    Vitry Airfield near Douai

    1944 September 2 Battalion did a short move to VITRY Airfield near DOUAI and spent the day maintaining.
    In the evening the Commanding Officer gave out Orders.
    APPENDIX C.

    Brussels

    1944 September 3
    Battalion started 0700 hours.
    Some resistance was met en route which caused delay.
    BRUSSELS was reached after dusk.
    Scenes of great enthusiasm.
    Battalion harboured in centre of the town.
    3 dropped off to bring in Echelons.

    1944 September 4
    Moved to cleaner part of town.
    Battalion H.Q. in KOEKELBURG Brewery.

    1944 September 5
    Moved to Stadium near scene of former BRUSSELS Exhibition.
    Sent 1 Squadron to 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS and Recce Patrols to watch North of BRUSSELS.

    Tessenderloo

    1944 September 6
    Advance resumed to ALBERT CANAL.
    Left at 0800 hours and at 1430 hours arrived at TESSENDERLOO a few miles short of it waited there till a bridge was made at BEERINGEN by the 32 BRIGADE GROUP.
    GRENADIER GUARDS GROUP joined from LOUVAIN, which they had taken the day before.
    Route DIEGHERN 6861 - CROSSROADS 8068 - HAECHT - WERCHTER - AERSCHOT - HERSSELT 0076.

    Pael

    1944 September 7
    Battalion was sent South to high ground South of DIEST to prepare for a threat from the South as a result of AMERICAN pressure in LIEGE Sector.
    At dusk moved to a Leaguer area near PAEL.

    South of Beverloo

    1944 September 8
    No. 3 Squadron went across ALBERT CANAL at 0600 hours with 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS.
    2 Squadron followed shortly after.
    Objective BOURG LEOPOLD.
    Battalion H.Q. and 1 Squadron followed about 0930 hours.
    Opposition at KLEINE HEIDE pit area and BEVERLOO.
    Soft ground at either side made deployment difficult.
    Battalion H.Q. established first opposite colliery and then just South of BEVERLOO.
    No. 3 Squadron turned Right to watch BOURG LEOPOLD.
    HEPPEN cleared 2 Squadron drove in and lost one tank to a PANTHER, rest of Squadron pulled out again and returned to H.Q.
    Nos 1 and 2 Squadrons stayed forward.
    Captain A.V. PRIESTLEY injured foot in power traverse.
    Some shelling during night, which wounded Major The Honourable C.M.K. ST. CLAIR, Lieutenant M. BODLEY and Lieutenant M. LOCK.

    Harboured at Staal

    1944 September 9
    845 hours
    5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS attacked HEPPEN.
    No. 2 Squadron followed then Nos. 1 and 3, temporarily amalgamated under Major ALLSOPP.
    Village cleared but one or two enemy tanks remained about.
    Enemy attack South (an attempt to recapture the bridge) was met by Brigade H.Q. F2 Echelons and 8 ARMOURED BRIGADE (one troop - Lieutenant P.W. LOYD - sent out the help), this was broken up.
    A group of 2 companies from 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS and No. 2 Squadron (Major The Honourable G.W.ff. DAWNAY) under Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY M.C., M.P. now Second-in-Command took up defensive position in HEPPEN.
    An attack from BOURG LEOPOLD threatened in the afternoon, but did not develop.
    In the evening moved to STAAL to harbour.

    Harboured near Locht

    1944 September 10
    Advance to MEUSE - ESCAUT CANAL.
    GRENADIER GUARDS GROUP leading on Left.
    Still grouped with 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS.
    32 BRIGADE (WELSH GUARDS & IRISH GUARDS) on Right.
    BOURG LEOPOLD and HECHTEL being still strongly held, had to advance across country between them.
    VLASMER and country to West of road HECHTEL - bridge cleared by GRENADIER GUARDS GROUP.
    IRISH GUARDS GROUP who had been held up by bogs came round on to our Centre Line, passed through us at LOCHT.
    They advanced through EXEL and captured one of about the only two remaining bridges at 2100 hours.
    Harboured in heath country near LOCHT.
    3 Squadron ordered to form road block just North of HECHTEL.
    No. 1 Squadron (Captain J. DARELL) with 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS out watching in direction of BOURG LEOPOLD.

    Near LOCHT

    1944 September 11
    600 hours Moved on 2 miles up to bridge.
    3 Squadron sent up to bridge area.
    Letter of appreciation to All Ranks.

    1944 September 12
    Remained same area all day.

    1944 September 13
    No change.

    1944 September 14
    No change.
    APPENDIX F.

    1944 September 15
    No change.
    Commanding Officer’s Orders.

    1944 September 16
    No change.
    Battalion prepare for advance on Operation “GARDEN”.
    APPENDIX G.
    Officer Field Returns

    1944 September 17
    Operation “GARDEN” commenced.
    Battalion prepared to move, but was ordered to remain in some area till next day.

    1944 September 18
    Battalion moved out under command 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS as a Regimental Group in 32 GUARDS BRIGADE and crossed ESCAUT CANAL harbouring in area S. AALST.

    1944 September 19
    Advance continued.
    Battalion harbouring in area of OVERASSELT at 6654, South West of NIJMEGEN, Sheet 2a & 3a North West EUROPE, 1:250,000.

    North West of GROESBEEK

    1944 September 20
    Regimental Group put under command General GAVIN 83 U.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION and moved to area 7456, North West of GROESBEEK.
    No. 3 Squadron was ordered to defend HEUMEN bridge in support of a company of 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS.
    The Squadron counter attacked and with U.S. forces cleared MOOK.
    No. 1 Squadron supported U.S. forces on WYLER.
    APPENDIX

    North West of GROESBEEK

    1944 September 21
    No change.
    No. 1 Squadron patrolled to WYLER, shooting at enemy in village.
    Later No. 1 Squadron was withdrawn and patrols of Recce troop covered the village.

    Near Zeeland

    1944 September 22
    The Regimental Group taken out of command of 83 U.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION sent South to clear Division Centre Line at 1700 hours, harbouring near ZEELAND at 5745.
    A Troop of No. 2 Squadron was sent under command of No. 2 Company 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS to hold OSS 4754.

    East of UDEL 1944

    September 23
    Battalion less one Troop continued move South with 2 companies of 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS attacking VOLKEL under command 101 U.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION.
    Battalion harboured area East of UDEN at 5541.
    Officer Field Returns

    1944 September 24
    No. 1 Squadron patrolled South to cover BOEKEL.

    1944 September 25
    Battalion moved out at 1015 hours to cover GRAVE Bridge from West.
    Order of March 1 Squadron, 2 Squadron, H.Q. Squadron, 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS F2 Echelon
    Recce Troop moved in front of Battalion.
    No. 1 Squadron covered the road East from HEESCH 4851.
    No. 2 Squadron moved to OSS.
    No. 3 Squadron in reserve area 5851 with Battalion H.Q.
    Enemy elements were driven out of OSS.
    Enemy in HEESCH were engaged.
    No. 1 Squadron withdrew to Battalion area at night.

    1944 September 26
    No. 3 Squadron sent to reinforce No. 2 Squadron at OSS.
    No. 1 Squadron covered HEESCH.
    2 Prisoners of War taken in OSS.
    No. 1 Squadron withdrew.
    APPENDIX K.

    1944 September 27
    2 troops of No. 1 Squadron plus patrols of Recce Troop were sent to clear woods on both sides of HEESCH road, ares 49 to 52 Easting - 50 to 51 Northing.
    No enemy encountered.

    1944 September 28
    No change.
    No. 3 Squadron took 2 Prisoners of War.
    No. 1 Squadron with 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS.
    APPENDIX L.

    1944 September 29
    No change.
    No. 2 Squadron took 3 Prisoners of War.

    1944 September 30
    A patrol of a troop of No. 2 Squadron plus Recce Troop plus a platoon of infantry raided GEFFEN 4352, killing 12 enemy and taking 4 Prisoners of War.
    Battalion concentrated and moved at short notice at 1700 hours to area HATERT 6958 and came with 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS under command 83 U.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION.
    Held as mobile reserve against threat from East.
    Shells landed in Battalion area during the night.
    2 Other Ranks killed and 1 wounded.
    Captain J. GULL was wounded
     
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    APPENDIX A.

    1st September, 1944
    The C.O. had given out orders the previous night of which the gist was:-

    Advance to be resumed and high ground at 3705 North of ARRAS to be captured. ALBERT to be blanketed off and watched.

    ORDER OF MARCH
    1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS & 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    F2 Echelon and L.A.D. and Recce Party ROYAL ENGINEERS
    1 Bty of 153 Field Regiment ROYAL ARTILLERY
    Q Bty 21st Anti-Tank Regiment ROYAL ARTILLERY
    2nd Armoured Battalion IRISH GUARDS

    COLDSTREAM GUARDS Group will captured ARRAS exploit to high ground 3705.

    ORDER OF MARCH IN 1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS Group
    Recce Troop
    3 Squadron
    H.Q. Squadron
    No. 1 Squadron
    No. 2 Squadron
    5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS

    A plan was made for the capture of the town should serious opposition have been met, but this proved unnecessary. No. 3 Squadron turned right in the outskirts to deal with minor stuff while No. 1 and No. 2 Squadrons and the Recce Troop led on to the station and the centre of the town. The Intelligence Officer searched the Feldkommandature and Feldgendarmerie H.Q. but the enemy had removed or burnt all his pipes. In the evening the Battalion harboured on the objective.
     
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    APPENDIX B.

    AN ACCOUNT BY LIEUTENANT SPARROW O/C RECCE TROOP OF HIS ENTRY INTO ARRAS 1st September 1944

    “... We again dashed on, now with Lieutenant J. SUTTON and his Troop (No. 3 Squadron) with us, and on the outskirts of ARRAS saw a number of Germans in the turnip fields, who didn’t surrender. We shot them up until they did and then moved on. ARRAS appeared deserted and rather forbidding with one or two French waving nervously from windows. Almost at once a German motor-cyclist appeared right under our noses, and highly surprised, dismounted. Firing his pistol he made for cover. We soon reached a small square, and at the same time a German convoy appeared. This Lance-Corporal HALL, Lieutenant SUTTON and I shot up effectively and scattered Germans in all directions. On the convoy was a 7.5 cm Anti-Tank gun which we knocked out with H.E.; and I had the joy of hitting a German ‘jeep’ in the bonnet with H.E. when it was roaring fast. I was joined by the rest of the Troop (Lance-Corporal HEZZEL, Lance-Serjeant ROBINSON, Serjeant LAMB, Serjeant REYNOLDS and the C.O. We advanced into the centre of the town. The main Square was deserted, but a member of the F.F.I. pointed a house with Germans in. We moved about with guns traversed, and soon an officer and five men came out with hands up. This was the signal, for the Square suddenly became flooded with cheering people, and many F.F.I. men climbed on to my tank saying where Germans were .
    Eventually I made for the Kommandatur (Hotel de Ville), and started putting H.E. through the door. A lone German who wandered out was shot by a Frenchman. Eventually some French approached the building, and we had a glimpse of 4 German cars dashing off round a corner - unfortunately too quick for us. By now ARRAS was full of cheering crowds, and I was ordered to move on to high ground North of the city.”
     
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    APPENDIX C.

    C.O.s ORDERS 2nd SEPTEMBER 1944

    INFORMATION
    Bombing of targets on our axis of advance and Americans encroaching on our Centre Line may delay us.

    At 1130 hours:-
    101 U.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION is going to drop on TOURNAI.
    82 U.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION is going to drop 4 miles to its Right.
    1st BRITISH AIRBORNE DIVISION are going to drop 4 miles East of TOURNAI.
    POLISH AIRBORNE BRIGADE are going to drop 4 mies East of TOURNAI.
    52 Mtn. DIVISION is to be brought over from ENGLAND by air.
    Task of these formations is to clean u the PAS DE CALAIS area.
    (The weather being bad none of these drops in fact took place).

    GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION is directed on to BRUSSELS.
    11th ARMOURED DIVISION is directed on to ANTWERP.
    This will sever the main Line of Communications of Germans in North East FRANCE and BELGIUM. Utmost security essential.

    Tps under command of Division
    231 INFANTRY BRIGAE (50 DIVISION)
    Belgian Battalion

    Method
    Division will advance on two Centre Lines

    Right - 32 BRIGADE Group
    2nd Battalion IRISH GUARDS & 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS
    2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS & 1st Battalion WELSH GUARDS

    Left - 5 BRIGADE Group
    2nd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS & 1st Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS
    1st Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS & 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS

    INTENTION
    5th GUARDS ARMOUED BRIGADE will capture BRUSSELS.

    5th BRIGADE ORDER OF MARCH
    GRENADIER GUARDS Group
    2 Btys 153 Field Regiment ROYAL ARTILLERY
    1 Tp ROYAL ENGINEERS (16 Field Squadron) & Assault boats
    Section of C.M.P.
    COLDSTREAM GUARDS Group
    Recce Party of ROYAL ENGINEERS
    1 Bty 153 Field Regiment ROYAL ARTILLERY
    1 Bty 21 Anti-Tank Regiment ROYAL ARTILLERY
    Main Brigade H.Q.
    14 Field Squadron less 1 Tp
    1 Towed Bty Anti-Tank

    NOTES
    60 V.T.M.
    Make for the bridges.
    Keep yellow smoke handy, accidents have been happening.
    All petrol to go with F2 Echelon.
    A Echelon brigaded.
    A.D.S. just in rear of BRIGADE H.Q.
    Issue of 2 days Compo rations tonight.
    Watch march discipline - getting slack.
    Don’t hesitate to go across country if necessary.
    Drivers must not smoke, or Tank crews.
    Saluting getting slack.
     
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    APPENDIX F.

    SUBJECT:- Message of appreciation to All Ranks.
    Ref. No: 1st CG 14/44

    The following message was received on 6 September 1944 by the Divisional Commander from G.O.C. 2nd ARMY.
    “My most sincere congratulations to you and your splendid Division on you magnificent achievements of the past few days.”

    On 4th September 1944 the Divisional Commander wrote:-
    “I wish to send my personal congratulations to All Ranks of the Guards Armoured Division, Household Cavalry Regiment and attached Troops on their magnificent performance in liberating BRUSSELS yesterday.

    The speed of advance, the distance covered, the relentless way in which opposition was overcome, were admirable.

    I have no doubt that this operation will go down in history as one of the greatest feats of the war”.

    Since then the Divisional Commander has sent the COLDSTREAM GUARDS Group a special message of thanks for our efforts and sacrifices since crossing the ALBERT Canal, and wishes it to be explained to All Ranks the vital contribution that we have made to the general conduct of the campaign.

    The capture of BEVERLOO on 8th September 1944 and HEPPEN on 9th September 1944 enabled the 8th ARMOURED BRIGADE to debouch to the North West. If they had not achieved this a strong enemy counter-attack might well have succeeded and the bridgehead over the canal been lost.

    The enemy attack South on 9th September 1944 was a determined attempt to seize the bridge.

    This the severe and costly fighting carried out by the 5th Battalion and ourselves has made a very real contribution towards the early finish of the war.

    I would like to add my own congratulations to these; first for the good driving and the high standard of maintenance which made our dash to BRUSSELS possible with so few breakdowns; and secondly for the determination and efficiency of All Ranks in the recent fighting which has made the outcome so successful.

    Signed Lieutenant Colonel,
    Commanding,
    1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    B.L.A.
    14 Sep 1944
     
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    APPENDIX G.

    1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    September, 1944

    The objects of the next advance are twofold.
    1. POLITICAL.
    The Germans have launched 2 V.2s - To capture the V2 sites.
    2. To put us in a good position to strike at the weak part of GERMANY.

    3 1/2 Divs (approx. 50,000 men) are to be dropped from the air to capture all the bridges on our route. In each case, if airborne trps fail, we are responsible for capturing the bridges up to and excluding NIJMEGEN.

    30 CORPS Leads. (led by GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION). Composition:-
    GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION
    8 ARMOURED BRIGADE
    ROYALS
    43 DIVISION
    50 DIVISION
    52 DIVISION (Airborne later)

    On arrival in the area ARNHEM, we shall have to face West and East.

    ROUTE
    Till VALKENSWAARD, one Centre Line
    To GRAVE, two Centre Lines, whichever Brigade gets there first, takes the lead from then on.
    8 ARMOURED BRIGADE follow us, drop off and guard EINDHOVEN, VEGHEL and HELMOND. Behind them come 43 DIVISION who are directed on to ARNHEM.

    ARTILLERY
    3 Medium & 7 Field Regiments, in addition to our own.

    METHOD
    8 CORPS (11 ARMOURED DIVISION & 3 DIVISION) coming up on Right.
    12 CORPS (7 ARMOURED DIVISION, 15 (S) & 53 coming up on Left.

    To TILBURG eventually to clean up HOLLAND and V2 sites.
    Then a week’s pause.

    ORDER OF MARCH:-
    Right - 32 BRIGADE (COLDSTREAM GUARDS GROUP, WELSH GUARDS GROUP)
    Left - 5 BRIGADE (GRENADIER GUARDS GROUP, IRISH GUARDS GROUP [who lead to VALKENSWAARD])
    Squadron of 2nd Battalion HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY REGIMENT under command working on both Centre Lines.
    32 BRIGADE to take only fighting vehicles
    Extensive air cover.
    One Dutch interpreter per Battalion.
    HOLLAND a friendly country.
    Head to tail - keep roads clear.
    250 miles of petrol, 8 days food and extra ammunition.
     
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    Officer Field Returns

    [Officer Return Week Ending Personal Number Substantive Rank Higher Acting or Temporary Rank if held First Names Initials Surname Parent Regiment Division Date taken on Strength Whether present with Unit Appointment Held Date Assumed present Appointment Remarks including how employed if absent from unit Attached in Excess of W.E. less 1st Rfts. Date of Attachment Attached in Excess of W.E. less 1st Rfts. Nature of Attachment Officers in Strength counting against W.E. less 1st Rfts. Permanently Attached within W.E. (Full) - Nature of Attachment Officers Joined during Week - Unit from which joined Officers Quitted during Week - Location Officers whose Return to the Unit is particularly requested - Whereabouts if known]

    16 Sep 1944 39274 Major Lieutenant Colonel R F S GOOCH, MC Coldstream Guards 30 Sep 1943 Yes Commanding Officer 1 Sep 1944
    16 Sep 1944 32350 Captain Major W J St C ANSTRUTHER-GRAY, MC, MP Coldstream Guards 2 Oct 1943 Yes Second-in-Command 1 Sep 1944
    16 Sep 1944 36201 Captain Major W M FOX Coldstream Guards 18 Dec 1943 Yes Squadron Leader 18 Dec 1943
    16 Sep 1944 50866 Captain Major H R ALLSOPP, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 16 Feb 1940 Yes Squadron Leader 26 Feb 1942
    16 Sep 1944 40932 Captain Major G W ff DAWNAY, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 8 Jul 1940 Yes Squadron 22 Feb 1943
    16 Sep 1944 75569 Lieutenant Temporary Captain J L DARELL Coldstream Guards 1 Aug 1942 Yes Squadron 1 Aug 1942 5 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    16 Sep 1944 107020 Lieutenant Captain - DENBIGH, The Earl of Coldstream Guards 11 Jun 1940 Yes M.T.O. 11 Feb 1943
    16 Sep 1944 68162 Lieutenant Captain H CHISENHALE-MARSH Coldstream Guards 11 Jun 1940 Yes Squadron 20 Jan 1943
    16 Sep 1944 113731 Lieutenant Captain J E GULL Coldstream Guards 9 Jun 1941 Yes T.A. 11 Feb 1943
    16 Sep 1944 78257 Lieutenant Captain J N BINGHAM Coldstream Guards 5 Oct 1943 Yes Intelligence Officer 5 Oct 1943
    16 Sep 1944 89013 Lieutenant Captain J F PRIESTLEY Coldstream Guards 20 Jan 1944 Yes Squadron 5 Feb 1943
    16 Sep 1944 113730 Lieutenant Captain N S C COLLIN Coldstream Guards 14 Jun 1940 Yes Troop 22 Nov 1943
    16 Sep 1944 165023 Lieutenant Captain O K HEYWOOD Coldstream Guards 15 Oct 1942 Yes Adjutant 21 Apr 1943
    16 Sep 1944 85276 Lieutenant Captain P H HUNT Coldstream Guards 24 Dec 1941 Yes Squadron 24 Dec 1941
    16 Sep 1944 156043 Lieutenant J H BADDELEY Coldstream Guards 26 Feb 1941 Yes G.O. 26 Feb 1941
    16 Sep 1944 164300 Lieutenant M A HAMILTON Coldstream Guards 3 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 3 Jul 1942
    16 Sep 1944 186906 Lieutenant S BIRCH Coldstream Guards 8 Nov 1943 Yes Troop 8 Nov 1943 6 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    16 Sep 1944 186916 Lieutenant B H G SPARROW Coldstream Guards 25 Sep 1941 Yes Troop 25 Sep 1941
    16 Sep 1944 224212 Lieutenant G T PEARSON Coldstream Guards 7 Sep 1944 Yes Troop 7 Sep 1944
    16 Sep 1944 224212 Lieutenant H R HOWITT Coldstream Guards 11 Mar 1942 Yes Troop 11 Mar 1942
    16 Sep 1944 229118 Lieutenant I A RODNEY Coldstream Guards 1 Jul 1942 Yes Signals Officer 1 Jul 1942
    16 Sep 1944 233949 Lieutenant D B B FENWICK Coldstream Guards 12 Aug 1942 Yes Troop 12 Aug 1942
    16 Sep 1944 233950 Lieutenant P A M GELL Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 25 Jul 1942 1st Reinforcement Attached 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    16 Sep 1944 233951 Lieutenant J A L LEE Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 25 Jul 1942
    16 Sep 1944 243807 Lieutenant R T BOSCAWEN, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 16 Mar 1944 Yes Troop 16 Mar 1944
    16 Sep 1944 256574 Lieutenant J A G SEDGWICK Coldstream Guards 12 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 12 Aug 1944
    16 Sep 1944 262112 Lieutenant K F C PARRINGTON Coldstream Guards 8 Jul 1944 No Troop 8 Jul 1944 Attached Div Transit Camp
    16 Sep 1944 268990 Lieutenant I L JARDINE Coldstream Guards 1 Jan 1944 Yes Troop 1 Jan 1944 1 Jan 1944
    16 Sep 1944 267569 Lieutenant G HOHLER Coldstream Guards 5 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 5 Aug 1944
    16 Sep 1944 278663 Lieutenant T NESBITT-DUFORT Coldstream Guards 12 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 12 Aug 1944
    16 Sep 1944 275674 Lieutenant J H T SUTTON Coldstream Guards 15 Feb 1944 Yes Troop 15 Feb 1944 12 Aug 1943
    16 Sep 1944 293490 Lieutenant J K AMBLER Coldstream Guards 24 Apr 1944 Yes Troop 24 Apr 1944 9 Nov 1943
    16 Sep 1944 295069 Lieutenant W A WESTERMAN Coldstream Guards 27 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 27 Aug 1944
    16 Sep 1944 297321 Lieutenant D C G JESSEL Coldstream Guards 17 Jul 1944 Yes Troop 17 Jul 1944
    16 Sep 1944 210583 Lieutenant S J H MIDDLEDITCH Coldstream Guards 15 Apr 1943 Yes Quartermaster 15 Apr 1943
    16 Sep 1944 221859 Lieutenant Captain J THOMPSON Royal Army Medical Corps 1 Apr 1942 Yes Medical Officer 1 Apr 1942 Y
    16 Sep 1944 85276 Lieutenant Acting Captain P H HUNT Coldstream Guards 24 Dec 1941 24 Dec 1941 13 Sep 1944 5th Guards Armoured Brigade
    16 Sep 1944 Lieutenant G T PEARSON Coldstream Guards 9 Sep 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    16 Sep 1944 233950 Lieutenant P A M GELL Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 25 Jul 1942 9 Sep 1944 Div Transit Camp
    16 Sep 1944 23886 Major Lieutenant Colonel R MYDDELTON Coldstream Guards 16 May 1941 Yes 9 Feb 1942 1 Sep 1944 37 R.H.U.
    16 Sep 1944 65456 Captain G M K ST. CLAIR, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 6 Mar 1941 Yes 20 Jan 1943 8 Sep 1944 Wounded
    16 Sep 1944 138620 Lieutenant Captain O P DAWNAY Coldstream Guards 22 Oct 1940 Yes 12 Jun 1943 7 Sep 1944 H.Q. 5th Guards Armoured Brigade
    16 Sep 1944 77596 Lieutenant Captain A V PRIESTLEY Coldstream Guards 16 Jun 1941 Yes 16 Jun 1941 8 Sep 1944 Wounded
    16 Sep 1944 186917 Lieutenant T M C BODLEY Coldstream Guards 27 May 1943 Yes 27 May 1943 8 Sep 1944 Wounded
    16 Sep 1944 240006 Lieutenant M E LOCK Coldstream Guards 28 Sep 1942 Yes 28 Sep 1942 8 Sep 1944 Wounded
    16 Sep 1944 233952 Lieutenant P W LOYD Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 Yes 25 Jul 1942 13 Sep 1944 H.Q. 5th Guards Armoured Brigade
    16 Sep 1944 Captain A F WEIGALL Royal Army Chaplains Department 14 Sep 1944 1st Canadian Division
    16 Sep 1944 Captain A T WATKINS Coldstream Guards Present Whereabouts Unknown
     
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    APPENDIX

    SECRET

    H.Q. 82nd A/B DIV
    APO 469 U.S. Army
    20 Sep 1944

    Opn Instructions to C.O. 504
    1. Enemy situation - current.

    2. GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION continues its adv to the N from NIJMEGEN to ARNHEM with assistance of the 82nd A/B DIVISION. GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION with 2nd Battalion 505 atchd will attack at H Hour from East to West boundary line shown on atchd overlay to clear NIJMEGEN of enemy strong points and secure Souther ends of RR and Hy bridges. 82nd A/B DIVISION continues to occupy present positions with additional attachments as shown below:
    1st Armoured Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    5th Infantry Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS
    Effective approx 0800 hours Initial positions as shown on atchd overlay.

    SHERWOOD RANGERS YEOMANRY (Armoured Regiment 1 Squadron ROYALS (Armd Cars) both expected to arrive from the South sometime today. Initial positions for both to be designated.

    Additional artillery support as arranged by Division Artillery Commander with British C.R.A.

    3
    a. 504 less one Bn and with attachments as shown below will clear the general area 671604 - 686645 - 698636 - 698609 by H Hour today at which time they will effect a crossing over the WAAL River in the vicinity 686645 and establish bridgehead at North end of NIJMEGEN Hy and RR bridges to include the area 700638 - 708649 - 721641. Bridgehead will be held for passage of GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION.
    b. Additional attachments to 504:
    2 squadrons Tanks 2nd Armoured Battalion IRISH GUARDS
    c. 376 Field Artillery will be in direct support of 504. Additional Artillery support as directed by Division Artillery Commander. Artillery preparation will be fired between H Hour and H-15 as directed by C.O. 504.
    d. Air support has been requested from H-30 to H-15 to support river crossing. Targets have been designated in area 670660 - 706634 - 707680. Mission to be flown from South East to North West. After H-15 close surveillance of all roads leading into NIJMEGEN from the North.
    e. 3rd Bn 504 to be relieved from Division Reserve effective 0800.
    f. H Hour - 1400.

    4. C.O. 504 will contact C.O. GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION at 705542 without delay to secure necessary assault boat equipment. 504 guide will report to 3rd Battalion IRISH GUARDS at 699556 by 0800 to secure necessary transportation for displacement of 3rd Bn 504 to forward area. C.O. 504 will transport necessary supplies across WAAL to carry out sustained operation in order to hold bridge head in the event GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION fails to effect passage as planned.

    5
    a. Current SOI in effect. Division Signals Officer to provide necessary means for continuance of communication with 504. 504 to lay wire across River WAAL. Division will maintain Liaison Officer with radio at GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION H.Q. effective at once.
    b. Division CP unchanged. 504 to report.

    GAVIN
    Comdg
     
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    Officer Field Returns

    [Officer Return Week Ending Personal Number Substantive Rank Higher Acting or Temporary Rank if held First Names Initials Surname Parent Regiment Division Date taken on Strength Whether present with Unit Appointment Held Date Assumed present Appointment Remarks including how employed if absent from unit Attached in Excess of W.E. less 1st Rfts. Date of Attachment Attached in Excess of W.E. less 1st Rfts. Nature of Attachment Officers in Strength counting against W.E. less 1st Rfts. Permanently Attached within W.E. (Full) - Nature of Attachment Officers Joined during Week - Unit from which joined Officers Quitted during Week - Location Officers whose Return to the Unit is particularly requested - Whereabouts if known]

    23 Sep 1944 39274 Major Lieutenant Colonel R F S GOOCH, MC Coldstream Guards 30 Sep 1943 Yes Commanding Officer 1 Sep 1944
    23 Sep 1944 32350 Captain Major W J St C ANSTRUTHER-GRAY, MC, MP Coldstream Guards 2 Oct 1943 Yes Second-in-Command 1 Sep 1944
    23 Sep 1944 36201 Captain Major W M FOX Coldstream Guards 18 Dec 1943 Yes Squadron Leader 18 Dec 1943
    23 Sep 1944 50866 Captain Major H R ALLSOPP, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 16 Feb 1940 Yes Squadron Leader 26 Feb 1942
    23 Sep 1944 40932 Captain Major G W ff DAWNAY, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 8 Jul 1940 Yes Squadron 22 Feb 1943
    23 Sep 1944 75569 Lieutenant Temporary Captain J L DARELL Coldstream Guards 1 Aug 1942 Yes Squadron 1 Aug 1942 5 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    23 Sep 1944 107020 Lieutenant Captain - DENBIGH, The Earl of Coldstream Guards 11 Jun 1940 Yes M.T.O. 11 Feb 1943
    23 Sep 1944 68162 Lieutenant Captain H CHISENHALE-MARSH Coldstream Guards 11 Jun 1940 No Squadron 20 Jan 1943 Admitted Hospital 16 Sep 1944
    23 Sep 1944 113731 Lieutenant Captain J E GULL Coldstream Guards 9 Jun 1941 Yes T.A. 11 Feb 1943
    23 Sep 1944 78257 Lieutenant Captain J N BINGHAM Coldstream Guards 5 Oct 1943 Yes Intelligence Officer 5 Oct 1943
    23 Sep 1944 89013 Lieutenant Captain J F PRIESTLEY Coldstream Guards 20 Jan 1944 Yes Squadron 5 Feb 1943
    23 Sep 1944 113730 Lieutenant Captain N S C COLLIN Coldstream Guards 14 Jun 1940 Yes Troop 22 Nov 1943
    23 Sep 1944 165023 Lieutenant Captain O K HEYWOOD Coldstream Guards 15 Oct 1942 Yes Adjutant 21 Apr 1943
    23 Sep 1944 85276 Lieutenant Captain P H HUNT Coldstream Guards 24 Dec 1941 Yes Squadron 24 Dec 1941
    23 Sep 1944 156043 Lieutenant J H BADDELEY Coldstream Guards 26 Feb 1941 Yes G.O. 26 Feb 1941
    23 Sep 1944 164300 Lieutenant M A HAMILTON Coldstream Guards 3 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 3 Jul 1942
    23 Sep 1944 176756 Lieutenant S D NEVILLE Coldstream Guards 16 Sep 1944 Yes Troop 16 Sep 1944
    23 Sep 1944 186906 Lieutenant S BIRCH Coldstream Guards 8 Nov 1943 Yes Troop 8 Nov 1943 6 Aug 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    23 Sep 1944 186916 Lieutenant B H G SPARROW Coldstream Guards 25 Sep 1941 Yes Troop 25 Sep 1941
    23 Sep 1944 224212 Lieutenant G T PEARSON Coldstream Guards 7 Sep 1944 Yes Troop 7 Sep 1944
    23 Sep 1944 224212 Lieutenant H R HOWITT Coldstream Guards 11 Mar 1942 Yes Troop 11 Mar 1942
    23 Sep 1944 229118 Lieutenant I A RODNEY Coldstream Guards 1 Jul 1942 Yes Signals Officer 1 Jul 1942
    23 Sep 1944 233949 Lieutenant D B B FENWICK Coldstream Guards 12 Aug 1942 Yes Troop 12 Aug 1942
    23 Sep 1944 233950 Lieutenant P A M GELL Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 25 Jul 1942 1st Reinforcement Attached 268 Forward Delivery Squadron, RAC
    23 Sep 1944 233951 Lieutenant J A L LEE Coldstream Guards 25 Jul 1942 Yes Troop 25 Jul 1942
    23 Sep 1944 243807 Lieutenant R T BOSCAWEN, The Honourable Coldstream Guards 16 Mar 1944 Yes Troop 16 Mar 1944
    23 Sep 1944 256574 Lieutenant J A G SEDGWICK Coldstream Guards 12 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 12 Aug 1944
    23 Sep 1944 262112 Lieutenant K F C PARRINGTON Coldstream Guards 8 Jul 1944 No Troop 8 Jul 1944 Attached Div Transit Camp
    23 Sep 1944 268990 Lieutenant I L JARDINE Coldstream Guards 1 Jan 1944 Yes Troop 1 Jan 1944 1 Jan 1944
    23 Sep 1944 267569 Lieutenant G HOHLER Coldstream Guards 5 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 5 Aug 1944
    23 Sep 1944 278663 Lieutenant T NESBITT-DUFORT Coldstream Guards 12 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 12 Aug 1944
    23 Sep 1944 275674 Lieutenant J H T SUTTON Coldstream Guards 15 Feb 1944 Yes Troop 15 Feb 1944 12 Aug 1943
    23 Sep 1944 293490 Lieutenant J K AMBLER Coldstream Guards 24 Apr 1944 Yes Troop 24 Apr 1944 9 Nov 1943
    23 Sep 1944 295069 Lieutenant W A WESTERMAN Coldstream Guards 27 Aug 1944 Yes Troop 27 Aug 1944
    23 Sep 1944 297321 Lieutenant D C G JESSEL Coldstream Guards 17 Jul 1944 Yes Troop 17 Jul 1944
    23 Sep 1944 210583 Lieutenant S J H MIDDLEDITCH Coldstream Guards 15 Apr 1943 Yes Quartermaster 15 Apr 1943
    23 Sep 1944 221859 Lieutenant Captain J THOMPSON Royal Army Medical Corps 1 Apr 1942 Yes Medical Officer 1 Apr 1942 Y
    23 Sep 1944 176756 Lieutenant S D NEVILLE Coldstream Guards 16 Sep 1944 16 Sep 1944 16 Sep 1944 268 Forward Delivery Squadron
    23 Sep 1944 Captain A T WATKINS Coldstream Guards Present Whereabouts Unknown
     
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    APPENDIX K.

    PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM CORPS COMMANDER 30 CORPS.

    I am most anxious that all Commanding Officers should take the opportunity of this short lull in our advances to talk to their troops and put them in the picture.

    When doing so, I want you to stress the following points.

    For some weeks now, 30 Corps has been privileged to lead the advance of SECOND ARMY. Our recent operation, which started last Sunday week, was one of the most daring that has ever been attempted in modern war.

    In conjunction with the Airborne Corps, we were asked to penetrate deep into enemy territory, along one road, and to force a passage over three of the most formidable rivers in EUROPE.

    We have burst through the enemy’s defences and have secured a passage over two of these rivers. We now stand poised between the second and third river, ready to advance again as soon as our larders ahve been re-stocked.

    I should like to congratulate all ranks on this magnificent achievement, and I have received the following letter from the Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshall MONTGOMERY:

    “Your Corps has done splendidly and I congratulate you, and every Officer and man in the Corps. Please tell tham all how well I think they have one”.

    I want all ranks to realise that the German is putting up a stubborn resistance as we approach his frontier. He is, however, very stretched, and provided we can maintain the offensive as we have done in the past, he is bound to crack in time.

    Very soon I hope we shall be advancing into Germany and carrying the war on to German soil.

    Well done 30 Corps.

    Signed B.G. HORROCKS
    Lieutenant General
    Commander 30 Corps
    Main H.Q. 30 Corps,
    26 September 1944.
     
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    APPENDIX L.

    SUBJECT:- Letter from Army Comd.
    List X

    The following is an extract from a letter I have received from Commander SECOND ARMY -

    “Once again I write to congratulate you on the magnificent achievements of your Division.

    I cannot tell you how much I admire the great things you have done during the past ten days.

    I would be glad if you would give them all my post sincere thanks and congratulations.”

    Signed Allan Adair
    Major General
    Comd
    GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION
    B.L.A.
    28 Sep 1944
     
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    Hatert, 6958, Sheet 5 (1:100,000) HOLLAND

    1944 October 1
    No change.
    Warning Order to move at 0900 hours next morning.

    Huis-Oosterhout, 6974

    1944 October 2
    Moved at 0900 hours to Division Concentration Area for rest and maintenance. Map Reference 672602.
    Later had Warning Order at 1000 hours to cross into NIJMEGEN Bridge Head to relieve IRISH GUARDS.
    Crossed bridge at 1630 hours.
    Battalion H.Q. harboured - area HUIS - OSSTERHOUT Map Reference 6974.
    Two Squadrons moved out in support of 231 BRIGADE.
    1 Squadron put in support of 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS.
    No. 2 Squadron supported 1st Battalion HAMPS.
    No. 3 Squadron supported 6th Battalion H.L.I.

    1944 October 3
    Nothing reported during night.
    No. 3 Squadron transferred to 1st Battalion DEVONS.
    Lieutenant S.D. NEVILE wounded.

    1944 October 4
    No.s 2 and 3 Squadrons supported 50 DIVISION in attack on road BAAL - HAALDEREN at 1200 hours put in by 231 BRIGADE.
    (No. 3 Squadron with DEVONS, 2 Squadron with HAMPS).
    Captain J.H. BADDALEY wounded.
    APPENDIX

    1944 October 5
    No change.
    Recce Party from 101 US.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION came to prepare for taking over.
    No. 2 Squadron transferred to support 1st Battalion DORSETS.

    (Sheet 5, 1:100,000, HOLLAND)

    1944 October 6
    Battalion concentrated at HUIS-OOSTERHOUT by daylight less 4 Troops. (2 Troops remained with 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS, 1 each with DORSETS and DEVONS).
    Soft vehicles crossed bridge between 0900 and 1300 hours in small parties returning to A Echelon at 6659.
    Tanks ordered to cross from 2300 hours onward.
    Battalion concentrated by 1700 hours.
    2100 hours
    Ordered to stay under command of 50 DIVISION as Corps Reserve in mobile role.
    Infantry of 231 BRIGADE handed over to Brigade of 101 U.S. AIRBORNE DIVISION.

    Near De Doex - Enburg (6659)

    1944 October 7
    1245 hours
    Battalion moved out of area HUIS - OOSTERHOUT and crossed bridge - concentrated in area 6659.
    APPENDIX A TO BATTALION ORDERS PART I No. 19, dated 7 October 1944

    1944 October 8
    1030 hours
    Church Service in Battalion Area.
    Entertainments at Division Club.
    Baths.

    1944 October 9
    No change.
    APPENDIX

    Hatert, 6958, Sheet 5 (1:100,000) HOLLAND

    1944 October 10
    Battalion moved to HATERT.
    APPENDIX

    1944 October 11
    715 hours
    P.T. and Maintenance.
    1000 hours
    Young Corporals’ Class as detailed commenced class under Drill Sergeant J. WHEELER.
    Visits to Mobile Baths, Cinema, Division Club.

    1944 October 12
    715 hours
    P.T.
    No change.
    Visits to Mobile Baths, Cinema, Division Club.
    APPENDIX

    1944 October 13
    715 hours
    P.T.
    No change.
    Visits to Mobile Baths, Cinema, Division Club.
    1030 hours
    Officers, Warrant Officers and Sergeants as detailed attend Lecture by Corps Commander at GRAVE Barracks.

    1944 October 14
    915 hours
    Commanding Officer’s Parade.
    Entertainment as before.

    1944 October 15
    1130 hours
    Church Service.
    Entertainment as before.

    1944 October 16
    715 hours
    P.T. and Maintenance.
    Entertainment at Division Club as before.

    1944 October 17
    915 hours
    Commanding Officer’s Parade.
    Entertainment at Division Club as before.

    1944 October 18
    715 hours
    P.T. and Maintenance.
    Entertainment at Division Club as before.

    South of Nijmegen, 7159

    1944 October 19
    Maintenance.
    Battalion moved into billets area South of NIJMEGEN.

    1944 October 20
    715 hours
    P.T. and Maintenance.
    900 hours
    Gunner Trade Board in No. 2 Squadron Area, President Major J. TROTTER, GRENADIER GUARDS.

    1944 October 21
    915 hours
    Squadron Drill Parades in Squadron Lines.
    1st XI played 310 Company ROYAL ARMY SERVICE CORPS in inter GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION League - Won 6-2.

    1944 October 22
    1130 hours
    Church Service.

    1944 October 23
    715 hours
    P.T.
    915 hours
    Maintenance.
    G.A.D. Club.

    1944 October 24
    915 hours
    Squadron Drill Parades.
    Maintenance.
    G.A.D. Club.

    1944 October 25
    715 hours
    P.T.
    915 hours
    Maintenance.
    G.A.D. Club.

    1944 October 26
    715 hours
    P.T.
    915 hours
    Maintenance.
    G.A.D. Club.

    1944 October 27
    715 hours
    P.T.
    915 hours
    Maintenance.
    1st XI played 2nd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS IN G.A.D. League - Won 5-2.
    Announcement of Decoration:
    “The King has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the Military Medal in recognition of gallantry and distinguished services in North West Europe to:-
    2654185 Lance-Corporal (now Lance-Sergeant) F. HOLLOWOOD”

    1944 October 28
    915 hours
    Squadron Drill Parades.
    Officer Field Returns

    1944 October 29
    1130 hours
    Church Service.
    1600 hours Major General Commanding BRIGADE OF GUARDS visited the Battalion.

    1944 October 30
    715 hours
    P.T.
    COLDSTREAM GROUP put at 6 hours’ notice for counter-attack role on MEIJEL Area (7006), Sheet 4, 1:100, 000, HOLLAND.
    1015 hours
    Sergeants and Corporals Classes commenced.

    1944 October 31
    915 hours
    Squadron Drill Parades.
    Maintenance.
    1000 hours
    Squadron Leaders and Seconds-in-Command attended Lecture on Co-operation between Infantry and Tanks at 5th Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS H.Q.
    1200 hours
    COLDSTREAM GROUP put at 2 hours’ notice for counter-attack role on River MEUSE, South East of GRAVE.
     
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    APPENDIX

    FROM :- Main H.Q. 231 INFANTRY BRIGADE
    (For Action)
    Main H.Q. 50 (N) DIVISION
    (For Information)
    2 DEVON, 1 HAMPS, 1 DORSET, 1 COLDSTREAM GUARDS, 14 HY MORTAR PL, 15 HY MORTAR PL, C COY 2 CHESHIRE, 90 FIELD REGIMENT, 288 A TK BTY, 138 LAA BTY, CCP 200 FD AMB, B ECHELON, 69 INFANTRY BRIGADE, 151 INFANTRY BRIGADE, 32 GUARDS BRIGADE COMD

    SITREP 480. SECRET.
    Attack started at 1200 hours and by 1245 hours A Coy 1 HAMPS had reached objective. 1 HAMPS H.Q. was heavily engaged by enemy artillery after start of attack and communications were temporarily disrupted. H.Q. 1 HAMPS then moved to position at 726680. 1300 hours B Coy 1 DORSET reached their objective and D Coy started to move up in order to pass through B Coy en route to D Coy objective. By 1310 hours A Coy 1 DORSET had reached their objective. Strong enemy forces were not encountered but enemy artillery which had been firing almost continuously since yesterday morning engaged the brigade area with very heavy fire. A Coy 1 HAMPS area received particularly heavy artillery fire and enemy shelling of road 740686 - 743689 delayed vehicles in getting forward to this coy position. B Coy 1 HAMPS completed mopping up and then took up position in area 742686. By 1515 hours D Coy 1 DORSET reported that they were unable to make much progress owing to interference by enemy from area orchards 734697. Enemy were also attempting to infiltrate through D Coy position when in area 736695. At approx 1500 hours B Coy 2 DEVON started moving forward from position in are 733694 assisted by squadron 1 COLDSTREAM GAURDS. Throughout this phase B Coy 2 DEVON encountered heavy enemy shelling. 1600 hours D Coy 1 DORSET reported able to make very little progress due to enemy on left and also continuous artillery fire. Throughout remainder of day very heavy artillery fire continued on all positions and several casualties were suffered. At approx 1800 hours D Coy 1 DORSET was ordered to take up position in area of B Coy. B Coy 2 DEVON gained forward edge of orchard and reached final objective by 2045 hours. 2 DEVON gained forward edge of orchard and reached final objective by 2045 hours. Since dark shelling has been less heavy but still continues. 84 PW taken during todays attack. Indentifications are mixed but include Battle Groups BRUN FRUNSBERT HAUEN VOGEL and WESER. All information.


    AS WRITTEN IN CIPHER PRIORITY
    IMMEDIATE to Division and Battalions
     
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    APPENDIX

    FROM :- Main H.Q. 231 INFANTRY BRIGADE
    (For Action)
    2 DEVON, 1 HAMPS, 1 DORSET, 90 FIELD REGIMENT, 288 A TK BTY, C COY 2 CHESHIRE, 14 HY MORTAR PL, 32 GUARDS BRIGADE, 69 INFANTRY BRIGADE, 130 INFANTRY BRIGADE, 151 INFANTRY BRIGADE, 1 COLDSTREAM GUARDS, 50 (N) DIVISION

    INTREP to 2300 hours 4 October. SECRET. After a somewhat quieter day yesterday our front livened up during the night. First approx 1 Pl of enemy opened up on the 1 HAMPS in area 741687 supported by fire from the Coy position in that area. This was either a diversion for the attack on 2 DEVON or out solely to be a nuisance value. However it was sufficient to prevent patrolling in that area and at one time looked like the beginning of a severe attack. At this time a very severe concentration of shelling and mortaring started in Battalion areas and continued throughout night. A barrage with concentrations directed on the DEVONS in area 730995 was followed closely by an attack of approx 100 inf in two waves lead by a tk. This over ran our FDLs and surrounded them. Direction of attack down road North East to South West 740700 to 737696 then West to orchards 736695 and 735696. The position was partly restored by first light but the enemy still held the following orchards 736695 - 735696 - 734696 and house 731697. PW taken in this attack identified as I/11 PGR 9 PZ DIVISION and stated that it was a Battalion attack. Today our attack to the line of the road and orchards between 735695 and 744688 over ran the enemy FDLs with not a great deal of opposition and are now firmly established. Main opposition came from enemy artillery and mortar fire which was very severe throughout day. One Coy pushing North to orchard 740698 was held up on road at day. One Coy pushing North to orchard740698 was held up on road at 735696 by fire from the orchard at 732696 this evening after heavy mortaring of this position by own troops a red cross flag appeared and a total heavy mortaring of this position by own troops a red cross flag appeared and a total of 1 Officer and 37 Other Ranks were taken PW. This was the remains of 5 and 8 Coys B Group BRUN. PW taken today total 84 and have given some ride to thought as the various identifications covered most Erz Units etc in the German Army. However after considerable interrogation the following breakdown has been obtained.
    B Group BRUN, B Group FRUNDSBERG, B Group WESEL, B Group HAUEN, B Group VOGEL, 1 Coy 36 MG Battalino , 3 Bty 594 Flak Battalion and numerous others that don’t fit into the picture but probably belong to one of the above B Groups.
    It is interesting to note that not a single identification of 10 or 11 PGR has been made today and a PW form BRUN states that they withdrew during the early hours this morning. This confirms pervious thoughts that 9 PZ remained to the rear of the FDLs for an attacking and counter attack role only and any ground gained was immediately taken over by one of the above mentioned B Groups. It was appears that the enemy lay-out this morning was as follows.
    B Group BRUN with 6 Coy on left, 8 and 5 Coy centre and 7 Coy right in orchards 729698 to 735698 0 B Group FRUNDSBERT area HEUVEL and surrounding orchards - B Group WESEL HAUEN and VOGEL together with the other miscellaneous units in area of orchards 741687 743688 & 745686 - elements of 9 PZ DIVISION to the North of CANAL LINGE. It is probable that the enemy will counter attack with elements of 9 Z DIVISION in the morning to regain the line of the road which seems to have been his main concern during recent attacks. It is possible that the main attack will develop in the area South of BAAL to meet what must be the greater the at [sic, threat?] by our friends on the right to push him back from the WAAL. Known enemy dispositions tonight are as follows - 738699 spandau - 740697 disabled dug in tk and spandaus - 644695 spandaus.
    STOP PRESS. By interrogation of PW suspected H.Q. 11 PGR at 756714 has been stonked. All information.

    AS WRITTEN IN CIPHER PRIORITY
    IMMEDIATE to Division and Battalions
    Remainder ELS
     
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