War Diary, 2nd Battalion Welsh Guards, Sep 1939 - Dec 1941

From The Times, Wednesday, May 29, 1940:
EVACUATION OF BOULOGNE
BRILLIANT WORK BY DESTROYERS

COURAGE AND DISCIPLINE
A description of the evacuation by sea of British troops in BOULOGNE when that port was seized by greatly superior forces of the enemy, by an eye-witness who was present there on independent duty, was issued in LONDON yesterday.

It is a heartening story of courage, steadiness, endurance, and skill in the face of danger and overwhelming strength of the enemy, by the officers and men of all three forces engaged.

The Navy finally effected the evacuation in conditions of great difficulty and danger. But they also had a part in the operations on land, for the day before, when the probable necessity for evacuation became evident, a demolition party was detailed to be ready to move at two hours' notice. It consisted of seamen, ROYAL MARINES, and a small detachment of the ROYAL ENGINEERS, with the necessary explosives and other demolition gear.

The combined party was taken by road to another port, where they embarked in a destroyer and were rushed across the Channel, reaching the main jetty at BOULOGNE in the forenoon. On the way into the harbour they had seen some French and British destroyers shelling the high land to the south, over which enemy tanks and mechanised troops were advancing on the town. The naval party was landed to hold the railway station, to fit the demolition charges, and to earmark, at the request of the French authorities, all bridges, cranes, lock-gates etc., which should be destroyed when the time came. Some troops were already in the railway station when it came under high explosive fire from enemy fieldguns. The seamen were there too, fitting the detonators to their explosive charges.

"Some of them were quite young men who'd never been under fire" the eye-witness said. "They just carried calmly on with their jobs with bits of the roof flying around and casualties occurring. They never turned a hair."

ENEMY CLOSING IN
The Germans were gradually closing in on the town with light mechanised vehicles followed by tanks and motorised field-guns. German aircraft attacks lasted intermittently throughout the day, and at one time there were 60 machines overhead. Once a greatly superior number made off on being attacked by R.A.F. fighers.

Owing to the position of the Germans all round the town it had been impossible to send field-guns or other assistance, consequently the troops could not hold out indefinitely agains the enemy armoured vehicles.

The naval and military officers conferred, and soon came to the conclusion that the town could not be held. The Germans already held the higher ground commanding the town and harbour, and were massing more troops and guns. Small parties of Germans were already coming down the streets on the outskirts of the town.

Demolition of all the bridges and important points was ordered, and small parties of seamen went out with their parcels of explosives. Already the swing bridges giving access to the inner part of the harbour were under fire of machine-guns at a range of a few hundred yards.

Meanwhile, in another part of the harbour was a large crane, with a wet dock beside it containing a naval trawler. Both might be captured by the enemy, so the officer in charge - a naval officer - decided to destroy them, with the power-house and pumping station for the dock, without waiting for further orders. He did so, though the crane did not collapse as was expected. It was eventually brought crashing down by a few rounds from the destroyer.

FLOATING DOCK SUNK
Another small naval party were searching the docks for any ships which might assist in the evacuation. They found one small vessel of the drifter type in which some stokers raised steam in record time by using bits of packing cases and anything combustible they could lay their hands on.

Then came the long expected orders - "Complete demolition." The floating dock was sunk, and the machinery, power-houses, and the like blown up. The hinges of some dock-gates were demolished, another trawler, another crane - anything and everything that might be of use to the enemy was wrecked. In the midst of this work the demolition parties were harassed by dive-bombing and machine-gun attack by 15 enemy aircraft. These were the machines put to flight by the R.A.F. fighters.

As a considerable number of our troops were sheltering in the sheds around the railway station, and more were arriving every minute, two destroyers came into harbour and alongside, and then steamed stern first out of the narrow entrance with all the troops they could cram on board. The three more destroyers came in and alongside, to be fired upon furiously by enemy field guns concealed on a wooded hill to the north of the harbour and over-looking it, and by pom-poms and machine-guns in the second-storey windows of a hotel. The range was nor more than 800 yards. Then several enemy heavy tanks came down the hill and on to the foreshore. The troops, meanwhile, were on the jetty and embarking in the destroyer. Their courage and bearing were magnificent, even under a tornado of fire with casualties occurring every second. They were as steady as though on parade.

POINT-BLANK RANGE
But the destroyers had not been idle. Their 4.7's, 4in., pom-poms, and machine-guns were in hot action, plastering the hillsides and the German field-guns in them at point-blank range: blasting the hotel opposite until the pom-poms and machine guns were silenced. The first shot fired at the tanks missed. The second was a direct hit which caused one of them to capsize and "go spinning over and over like a child doing a cart-wheel," according to an onlooker. A third was knocked out with a direct hit. THe others retired with some celerity.

If it had not been for the rapid and accurate fire of those destroyers and the bravery of the men manning their guns in the open the retiring troops must have received far heavier casualties and the evacuation might never have been possible. "By God!" said one of the more senior military officers, "they were absolutely magnificent." What the Army though to the Navy the sailors also thought of the soldiers. "They stood there like rocks and without giving a damn for anything," said one naval officer.


The three destroyers cast off and went stern first out to sea through the narrow entrance. One was slightly on fire, and all were listing heavily with the number of men on board. Getting them safely away and out to sea involved a fine display of seamanship, particularly as the tide had fallen and there was a danger of grounding.

In the evening there were still many troops ashore, and still more coming over the bridges under heavy fire. Most of the naval demolition party had gone in the destroyers, leaving the officer in charge, a sub-lieutenant, a petty officer, and one rating. They blew up the bridge when the last soldier had passed over it. Darkness came, and at 10 o'clock the railway station was still crammed with men, with the Germans very close and advancing. Three destroyers in succession nosed into the harbour and out to sea again with full quotas. One had a list of about 15 degrees. It was a miracle that all these destroyers were not sunk.

If the withdrawal was a misfortune, it is a story of truly magnificent discipline and of courage, determination, and devotion to duty on the part of comparatively small forces of the Army, the Navy, and the Royal Marines.

 

1940 June 1 - 6
Cherry Tree Camp, Colchester
A proportion of Battalion granted leave of varying length.
Remainder: Drill, shooting, Route Marches.

1940 June 7
Cherry Tree Camp, Colchester
-

1940 June 8
Cherry Tree Camp, Colchester
-

1940 June 9
Cherry Tree Camp, Colchester
-

1940 June 10
Cherry Tree Camp, Colchester
Draft of 80 Other Ranks from TRAINING BATTALION.

1940 June 11
Cherry Tree Camp, Colchester
Battalion moved to tented camp at GOODWOOD PARK CAMP, GOODWOOD.

1940 June 12
Goodwood Park Camp
Draft of 120 Other Ranks from TRAINING BATTALION.

Officer Personnel of the Battalion reorganized as follows:-

Battalion Headquarters:-
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Alexander STANIER, Bt. D.S.O., M.C.
Major G.St.V.J. VIGOR
Captain & Adjutant R.C. ROSE-PRICE
Lieutenant & Quartermaster W.L. BRAY, D.C.M., M.M.

H.Q. Company:-
Captain R.B. HODGKINSON - Officer Commanding
Lieutenant P.T. PETLEY - Intelligence Officer
2/Lieutenant C.F. CRAWSHAY - Motor Transport Officer
2/Lieutenant S.F. EMANUEL - Assitant Motor Transport Officer attached from TRAINING BATTALION
2/Lieutenant R.C.L. FITZWILLIAMS - Carrier Platoon

No. 1 Company:-
Captain C.H.R. HEBER-PERCY - Officer Commanding
Lieutenant C.A.St.J.P. HARMSWORTH - Second-in-Command attached from TRAINING BATTALION
2/Lieutenant N.T.L. FISHER
2/Lieutenant The Honourable D.R. RHYS
2/Lieutenant B.S.M. KENT
2/Lieutenant M. MENZIES

No. 2 Company:-
Captain C.A.La T. LEATHAM - Officer Commanding
2/Lieutenant BARON de RUTZEN - Second-in-Command & T.C.O.
2/Lieutenant J.D.A. SYRETT
2/Lieutenant A.A. BUSHELL - attached from TRAINING BATTALION
2/Lieutenant W.D.D. EVANS
2/Lieutenant S.O.F. BATEMAN
2/Lieutenant G.A.J. BEVAN

No. 3 Company:-
Captain J.E. GURNEY - Officer Commanding
2/Lieutenant M.W.T. LEATHEM - Second-in-Command
2/Lieutenant K.R. JOHNSTONE
2/Lieutenant E.T. PELHAM
2/Lieutenant Viscount VAUGHAM - attached from TRAINING BATTALION
2/Lieutenant A.G. BLOIS
2/Lieutenant W. ROBERTS

No. 4 Company:-
Captain M. WARDELL, M.B.E. - Officer Commanding
Lieutenant R.C. SHARPLES - Second-in-Command
2/Lieutenant E.G.F. BEDINGFELD
2/Lieutenant P.E.G.W. PARRISH - attached from TRAINING BATTALION
2/Lieutenant R.G. REES
2/Lieutenant J.E. FABER

1940 June 13
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training recommenced.

1940 June 14
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training, shooting.

1940 June 15
Goodwood Park Camp
Recce of BRIGADE TRAINING Defence Scheme, HALNAKER HILL AREA.

1940 June 16
Goodwood Park Camp
-

1940 June 17
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training, shooting.
Draft of 48 Other Ranks from Training Battalion.

1940 June 18
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training, shooting.

1940 June 19
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training.
Battalion H.Q. Exercise ‘B’ Echelon M.T. exercise.

1940 June 20
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training, shooting, Digging Battalion Defensive Training Position.
The following immediate awards have been made by the Commander-in-Chief, B.E.F.:-
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Alexander STANIER, Bt. M.C. - DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER.
Captain C.H.R. HEBER-PERCY - MILITARY CROSS
Lieutenant R.C. SHARPLES - MILITARY CROSS
2732115 R.Q.M.S. F.T. JONES - DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL
2733681 Serjeant J. KING - DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL
2732548 Lance-Corporal B. BOOKER - MILITARY MEDAL
2733284 Guardsman T.F. POTTER - MILITARY MEDAL

1940 June 21
Goodwood Park Camp
The Lieutenant-Colonel Commanding The Regiment (Colonel R.E.K. LEATHEM, D.S.O.) visited the Battalion in Camp and saw the Battalion in Camp and saw the Battalion engaged in digging its Defensive Training Task.

The following Promotions were made:-

To be Majors:-
Captain J.E. GURNEY - 25 May 1940
Captain R.B. HODGKINSON - 25 May 1940

To be Captains:-
Lieutenant R.C. SHARPLES, M.C. - 25 May 1940
2/Lieutenant BARON dE RUTZEN - 25 May 1940
2/Lieutenant M.W.T. LEATHEM - 25 May 1940
2/Lieutenant N.T.L. FISHER - 25 May 1940

1940 June 22
Goodwood Park Camp
-

1940 June 23
Goodwood Park Camp
-

1940 June 24
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training, shooting.

1940 June 25
Goodwood Park Camp
Battalion Exercise No. 1 begun.
Major J. JEFFERSON attached for Training.
Lieutenant P.T. PETLEY appointed Battalion Intelligence Officer.

1940 June 26
Goodwood Park Camp
Battalion Exercise No. 1 concluded.

1940 June 27
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training, shooting.

1940 June 28
Goodwood Park Camp
Company Training.
Battalion ordered to move by train to billets in WEST BYFLEET, WOKING Area on 29 June 1940.

1940 June 29
Goodwood Park Camp
-

1940 June 30
West Byfleet
Battalion moved by train to Billets in WEST BYFLEET Area.
Battalion H.Q. established at LONG ACRE, WEST BYFLEET.

 

1940 July 1
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 2
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 July 3
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 July 4
West Byfleet
Company Training. Field Firing and Shooting.

1940 July 5
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 July 6
West Byfleet
Captain R.C. SHARPLES, M.C. appointed Officer Commanding 20th GUARDS BRIGADE Anti-Tank Company.

1940 July 7
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 8
West Byfleet
Officers T.E.W.T.
Field Firing.
Company Training.

1940 July 9
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 10
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 5.

1940 July 11
West Byfleet
Company Training.
Field Firing.

1940 July 12
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 13
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 14
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 15
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 July 16
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 17
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 18
West Byfleet
Brigade Signal Exercise.

1940 July 19
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 20
West Byfleet
Inspection of Battalion and Billets by Brigadier W.A.F.L. FOX-PITT, M.V.O., M.C. Commander 20th GUARDS BRIGADE.

1940 July 21
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant P.M. BECKWITH-SMITH posted to Battalion from GUARDS DEPOT.

1940 July 22
West Byfleet
Captain N.T.L. FISHER, 2/Lieutenant Viscount VAUGHAN and The Honourable D.R. RHYS to Course at LONDON AREA School of Tactics, PIRBRIGHT.

1940 July 23
West Byfleet
Lieutenant-Colonel Commanding the Regiment (Colonel R.E.K. LEATHEM, D.S.O.) visited the Battalion.
He witnessed a Field Firing Exercise carried out by the Battalion on CHOBHAM RIDGES in which all Battalion weapons were demonstrated.
The Exercise was witness by a large number of Officers of the LONDON AREA and ALDERSHOT COMMAND and by Cadets from the R.M.C. SANDHURST.
2/Lieutenant K.R. JOHNSTONE (Intelligence Officer) to Four Day Intelligence Course at KENSINGTON.

1940 July 24
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 July 25
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 July 26
West Byfleet
Brigade Exercise.

1940 July 27
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 July 28
West Byfleet
-

1940 July 29
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 6.

1940 July 30
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 6.

1940 July 31
West Byfleet
-

 

1940 August 1
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 8.

1940 August 2
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 8.
Draft of 14 Other Ranks from Training Battalion.

1940 August 3
West Byfleet
No. 3 Company Firing.

1940 August 4
West Byfleet
-

1940 August 5
West Byfleet
Captain BARON de RUTZEN to be Officer Commanding, vice Captain J.S.M. WARDELL M.B.E. (to Second-in-Command Company and 20th GUARDS BRIGADE Liaison Officer with LONDON AREA).
Captain J.A. MEADE to Second-in-Command No. 4 Company from No. 3 Company
Lieutenant G.H.S. FRIPP and 2/Lieutenant G.R. COLDSTREAM from TRAINING BATTALION for attachment.
Company Training.

1940 August 6
West Byfleet
Company Training and Firing.

1940 August 7
West Byfleet
Officers T.E.W.T.
Draft of 40 Other Ranks from TRAINING BATTALION.

1940 August 8
West Byfleet
Brigade Exercise.

1940 August 9
West Byfleet
Battalion attended lecture on “Tanks and defence against tanks”.

1940 August 10
West Byfleet
The Colonel of the Regiment (Colonel W. MURRAY-THREIPLAND, D.S.O.) visited the Battalion and remained until 11th August 1940.

1940 August 11
West Byfleet
Battalion Parade Service held under Commanding Officer.
The Colonel of the Regiment attended.
The service was given by Reverend A.T.A. NAYLOR, D.S.O., O.B.E., A.C.G.

1940 August 12
West Byfleet
Company Training.
Cadre Course began.
2/Lieutenant J.T. FABER and one N.C.O. to P.T. Course, HENDON.

1940 August 13
West Byfleet
Company Training and Firing.
No. 2731624 Drill Serjeant A. DUNN from Senior Drill Serjeant to R.Q.M.S., R.H.Q.

1940 August 14
West Byfleet
Battalion Excercise No. 9.
Captain J.S.M. WARDELL, M.B.E. and 2/Lieutenant T.B. SHAUGHNESSY to course at LONDON AREA School of Tactics, PIRBRIGHT.

1940 August 15
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 August 16
West Byfleet
Brigade Exercise.

1940 August 17
West Byfleet
Brigade Exercise.

1940 August 18
West Byfleet
-

1940 August 19
West Byfleet
His Majesty The KING visited the Battalion and watch a Tactical Exercise carried out by the Battalion on CHOBHAM RIDGES RANGES in which all infantry weapons were fired with live bombs, rounds etc.
Before the Exercise His Majesty The KING inspected the Battalion in Fighting Order on CHOBHAM RIDGES.
2/Lieutenant A.A. BUSHELL and one N.C.O. proceed to Assault Course at Command W.T. School, DORKING.

1940 August 20
West Byfleet
Company Training and Firing.

1940 August 21
Company Training.

1940 August 22
Company Training.

1940 August 23
Company Training.

1940 August 24
-

1940 August 25
-

1940 August 26
Company Training.
Section Leaders Course began.

1940 August 27
Company Training and Firing.

1940 August 28
Officers T.E.W.T.

1940 August 29
Inter-Company Exercise.

1940 August 30
Inter-Company Exercise.

1940 August 31
-

 

1940 August 19
West Byfleet
His Majesty The KING visited the Battalion and watch a Tactical Exercise carried out by the Battalion on CHOBHAM RIDGES RANGES in which all infantry weapons were fired with live bombs, rounds etc.
Before the Exercise His Majesty The KING inspected the Battalion in Fighting Order on CHOBHAM RIDGES.


From The Times, Aug 20, 1940:
A MIMIC BATTLE
THE KING WITH A BREN GUN

VISIT TO GUARDS

The King watched a battalion of the WELSH GUARDS stage a realistic mimic battle in a south-eastern county yesterday. They were using live ammunitions, and bombs from 2in. mortars hurtled overhead as the King and a party of Staff officers stood on a hilltop watching the scene, The King, with Lieutenant-General Sir Bertram Sergison-Brooke, G.O.C. the London area, watched machine-gun bullets sending up clouds of dust as they struck a distant hillside.

A young Guards officer explained the scheme of operations, and gave a running commentary on the "battle." In front of the King were WELSH GUARDS in battle dress squatting on the hillside, many of them veterans of Boulogne, studying methods of counter-attack. An "enemy" tank came into the battle zone. A platoon advanced to deal with it with Molotoff cocktails, and the King watched them hurl the bottles at a wrecked car which represented the tank. Within a minute or two the car was blazing furiously, and the tank was out of action.

Earlier in the day the King saw a training battalion of WELSH GUARDS, and commented on the smartness of the turn-out of recruits with only five weeks' training. He watched the men being taught how to deal with low-flying bombing attacks. As a Wellington bomber came diving over the camp the King handled a Bren gun, following the aeroplane with it as it circled round and swooped over the heads of the troops, who were "firing" at it with their rifles.

The King saw two men being taught the use of Tommy guns, and asked about their value in modern warfare. He also chatted to four girls of the A.T.S. who, in white overalls, were cooking the men's midday meals at open-air ovens.

At brigade headquarters the King took the salute at a march-past of the IRISH GUARDS. Afterwards the battalion climbed into motor-coaches and drove past the King, followed by their mechanical transport sections.


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1940 September 1
West Byfleet
-

1940 September 2
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise begun in THURSLEY area.
Lieutenant T.L.R. HARDY attached from TRAINING BATTALION.

1940 September 3
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise continued.

1940 September 4
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise concluded.

1940 September 5
West Byfleet
Training, shooting etc.

1940 September 6
West Byfleet Training, shooting etc.

1940 September 7
West Byfleet
-

1940 September 8
1210 hours West Byfleet
Order to ‘Stand to’ received at 12.10 a.m.

1940 September 9
West Byfleet
Captain J.A. MEADE, 2/Lieutenant R.C.L. FITZWILLIAMS and 2/Lieutenant M. MENZIES to Course at LONDON AREA School of Tactics.
One Company placed at 30 minutes notice daily.
Order to ‘Stand to’ cancelled.
Certain restrictions imposed.

1940 September 10
West Byfleet
200 men carried out Digging Task on BROWN LINE of defence of LONDON.

1940 September 11
West Byfleet
Company Training etc.

1940 September 12
West Byfleet
Company Training etc.

1940 September 13
West Byfleet
200 Other Ranks carried out Digging Task on BROWN LINE of defence of LONDON.

1940 September 14
West Byfleet
Acting Major JE. GURNEY, M.C. to be Temporary Major - 25 May 1940
Acting Major R.B. HODGKINSON to be Temporary Major - 25 May 1940
Acting Captain R.C. SHARPLES, M.C. to be Temporary Captain 24 May 1940
Acting Captain BARON de RUTZEN to be Temporary Captain 25 May 1940
Acting Captain M.W.T. LEATHEM to be Temporary Captain 25 May 1940
Acting Captain N.T.L. FISHER to be Temporary Captain 25 May 1940

1940 September 15
West Byfleet
-

1940 September 16
West Byfleet
Refresher W.T. Cadre Course begun.

1940 September 17
West Byfleet
Company Training etc.

1940 September 18
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 September 19
West Byfleet
Company Training.

1940 September 20
West Byfleet
Company Training.
Inter-Company Exercise.

1940 September 21
West Byfleet
Company at 30 minutes notice daily discontinued.
Platoon at 15 minutes every other day substituted.

1940 September 22
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant C.F. CRAWSHAY posted to TRAINING BATTALION.
2/Lieutenant R.L. PATTINSON from TRAINING BATTALION.

1940 September 23
West Byfleet
Teams of Battalion took part in 20th GUARDS BRIGADE Rifle Meeting and won two of the four competitions.
2/Lieutenant G.A.J. BEVAN and 2 N.C.O.s to P.T. Course, HENDON.

1940 September 24
West Byfleet
Inter-Battalion Exercise.

1940 September 25
West Byfleet
Company Training.
200 Other Ranks carried out Digging Task on BROWN LINE of defence of LONDON.

1940 September 26
West Byfleet
Inter-Company Exercise.

1940
September 27
West Byfleet
Company Training.
Brigade Night Movement Exercise.

1940 September 28
West Byfleet
-

1940 September 29
West Byfleet
-

1940 September 30
West Byfleet
Winter Training Programme begun.
Captain C.H.R. HEBER-PERCY, M.C. to Company Commander: Course ANGLESEY.
One N.C.O. to Course S.A.S. HYTHE.

 

1940 October 1
West Byfleet
Drill. Shooting. Cadre Classes and Courses continued.

1940 October 2
West Byfleet
Battalion took part in 20th GUARDS BRIGADE Exercise.

1940 October 3
West Byfleet
Drill and individual Training.

1940 October 4
West Byfleet
-

1940 October 5
West Byfleet
-

1940 October 6
West Byfleet
-

1940 October 7
West Byfleet
-

1940 October 8
West Byfleet
Brigadier commanding 20th GUARDS BRIGADE inspected all Battalion Cadre Classes and Courses.

1940 October 9
West Byfleet
Drill and Individual Training.

1940 October 10
West Byfleet
Drill, Individual Training and Shooting.

1940 October 11
West Byfleet
Drill and Training.

1940 October 12
West Byfleet
-

1940 October 13
West Byfleet
-

1940 October 14
West Byfleet
Individual Training.
Platoon Commanders Course (Officers) began.
Drill and Duties Course (N.C.O.s) began.
20th GUARDS BRIGADE Defence T.E.W.T. began.
2/Lieutenant P.M. BECKWITH-SMITH and one N.C.O. proceeded on P.T. Course, HENDON.
2/Lieutenant J.D. GIBSON-WATT from TRAINING BATTALION.

1940 October 15
West Byfleet
Individual Training.
Film ‘Interrogation of Prisoners of War’ shown to Battalion.
20th GUARDS BRIGADE Defence T.E.W.T. concluded.

1940 October 16
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

1940 October 17
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

1940 October 18
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

1940 October 19
West Byfleet
Drill and Individual Training.

1940 October 20
West Byfleet
Major G.St.V.J. VIGOR assumed command of Battalion vice Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Alexander STANIER Bt., D.S.O., M.C. promoted Acting Brigadier in command of 223 (INFANTRY) BRIGADE.
Major G.W. BROWNING from TRAINING BATTALION WELSH GUARDS as Second-in-Command.

1940 October 21
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

1940 October 22
West Byfleet
Brigadier commanding 20th GUARDS BRIGADE inspected all vehicles on charge to the Battalion.

1940 October 23
West Byfleet
Individual Training.
Battalion Defence T.E.W.T.

1940 October 24
West Byfleet
Battalion Route March and Individual Training.

1940 October 25
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

1940 October 26
West Byfleet
Drill and Individual Training.
Draft of 52 Other Ranks from TRAINING BATTALION.
Lecture to Battalion by Lieutenant-Colonel KALLA, CZECHOSLOVAK MILITARY Attache.

1940 October 27
West Byfleet
-

1940 October 28
West Byfleet
Lieutenant-Colonel G.St.V.J. VIGOR proceeded on 8th War Course at Tactical School, DEVIZES.
2/Lieutenant K.R. JOHNSTONE proceeded on Gas Course WINTERBOURNE GUNNER.
Captain J.S.M. WARDELL, M.B.E. assumed duty at INFANTRY WING O.C.T.U. SANDHURST vice Lieutenant A.A. DUNCAN.
Battalion Route March. and Individual Training.
Platoon Commanders: (Officers) Course continued.

1940 October 29
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

1940 October 30
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

1940 October 31
West Byfleet
Individual Training.

 

1940 November 1
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 2
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 3
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 4
West Byfleet
Captain R.C. SHARPLES, M.C. to Company Commanders’ Course at LONDON DISTRICT School of Tactics.
2/Lieutenant J.T. FABER to Platoon Commanders’ Course at LONDON DISTRICT School of Tactics

1940 November 5
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 6
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 7
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 8
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 9
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 10
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 11
West Byfleet
Lieutenant A.A. DUNCAN joined Battalion from O.C.T.U. SANDHURST.

1940 November 12
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 13 West Byfleet 2/Lieutenant D.A. PRICE-JONES, 2/Lieutenant T. RUSSELL-COBB and 2/Lieutenant Sir M. BECKETT, Bt. attached to Battalion from TRAINING BATTALION.
Lieutenant T.L.R. HARDY, 2/Lieutenant J.A.B. RODERICK and 2/Lieutenant G.R. COLDSTREAM completed attachment and returned to TRAINING BATTALION.

1940 November 14 West Byfleet 20th GUARDS BRIGADE, Attack T.E.W.T.

1940 November 15
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 16
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 17
West Byfleet
Lieutenant A.A. DUNCAN promoted Acting Captain to date 2nd November 1940 with seniority next below Captain C.H.R. HEBER-PERCY, M.C.

1940 November 18
West Byfleet
Battalion Section Commander’s Course (14 days)
Captain A.A. DUNCAN appointed Adjutant.

1940 November 19
West Byfleet
Battalion EISTEDDFORD at Theatre, PIRBRIGHT.

1940 November 20
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 21
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 22
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant C.F. CRAWSHAY attached to Battalion.

1940 November 23
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 24
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 25
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY to Gas Course at WINTERBOURNE GUNNER.

1940 November 26
West Byfleet
Advance Party of No. 3 Company proceeded to ANGLESEY.

1940 November 27
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 28
West Byfleet
Brigade Night Drive.

1940 November 29
West Byfleet
-

1940 November 30
West Byfleet
-

 

1940 December 1
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant R.D. GIROUARD joined the Battalion

1940 December 2
West Byfleet
Drill Fortnight commenced at R.M.C. SANDHURST.
2/Lieutenant S.F. EMANUEL and 2/Lieutenant B.S.M. KENT proceed on Company and Platoon Commanders’ Courses at PIRBRIGTH.
2/Lieutenant K.R. JOHNSTONE proceed on Brigade Intelligence Course.

1940 December 3
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 4
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 5
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 6
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY return from Gas Course at Army Gas School.

1940 December 7
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 8
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 9
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 10
West Byfleet
Major R.B. HODGKINSON proceeded on Administrative Course at School of Administration.
BYFLEET War Weapons Week commenced in which Battalion took a prominent part.

1940 December 11
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 12
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 13
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 14
West Byfleet
Battalion Drill Competition at R.M.C. SANDHURST won by No. 1 Company.
Cup presented by Brigadier Sir Alexander STANIER, Bt., D.S.O., M.C.

1940 December 15
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 16
West Byfleet
Battalion Shooting commenced.

1940 December 17
West Byfleet
Officers’ Mess officially moved to “BROADOAKS”.

1940 December 18
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 19
West Byfleet
-

1940 December 20
West Byfleet
Shooting completed.

1940 December 21
West Byfleet
Lecture to Battalion by Right Honourable Lord LLOYD, Secretary of State for the Colonies, at PIRBRIGHT.

1940 December 22
West Byfleet

1940 December 23
West Byfleet
Battalion T.E.W.T. No. 2 (Attack).

1940 December 24
West Byfleet

1940 December 25
West Byfleet
Service in WEST BYFLEET Parish Church.

1940 December 26
West Byfleet

1940 December 27
West Byfleet
Brigade Day Movement Exercise.

1940 December 28
West Byfleet

1940 December 29
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY proceeded on Command Intelligence Course at DORKING.

1940 December 30
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant J.D. GIBSON-WATT and Drum-Major WHITTARD proceeded on Anti-Aircraft Course at HESTON.

1940 December 31
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant B.S.M. KENT proceed on Platoon Weapons Course at BISLEY.
Section Training commenced.

 

1941 January 1
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 2
West Byfleet
Inspection of Battalion books by Brigadier W.A.F.L. FOX-PITT, D.S.O., M.V.O., M.C.

1941 January 3
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 4
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 5
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 6
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant A.A. BUSHELL to Company Commander Course at PIRBRIGHT.
Lieutenant G.H.S. FRIPP promoted Acting Captain with effect from 1st January 1941.

1941 January 7
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 8
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 9
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 10
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 11
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 12
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 13
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 14
West Byfleet
Brigade Exercise.

1941 January 15
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 16
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant M. MENZIES to Anti-Aircraft Course at HESTON.

1941 January 17
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 18
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 19
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant C.A.F.J. MAUDE, 2/Lieutenant M.O. RENSHAW, 2/Lieutenant J.P.R. BELL and 2/Lieutenant R.W. POMEROY commenced attachment to Battailon.

1941 January 20
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 21
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 22
West Byfleet
Inspection by the Lieutenant-Colonel.

1941 January 23
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant T.B. SHAUGHNESSY to Anti-Aircraft Course at NORTHOLT.

1941 January 24
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 25
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 26
West Byfleet
-

1941 January 27
West Byfleet
Battalion Boxing Championships.

1941 January 28
West Byfleet
Battalion Boxing Championships.

1941 January 29
West Byfleet
Battalion Boxing Championships.

1941 January 30
West Byfleet
-
1941 January 31
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant R.C. TWINING promoted Lieutenant with effect 1st January 1941.

 

1941 February 1
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 2
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 1 versus HOME GUARD

1941 February 3
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant C.S. SCOTT commenced attachment to Battalion.

1941 February 4
West Byfleet
Brigade Night Drive.
2/Lieutenant W.D.D. EVANS appointed Battalion Gardening Officer.

1941 February 5
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 6
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 7
West Byfleet
Extract from LONDON GAZETTE: Captain (Temporary Major) J.C. WINDSOR LEWIS awarded the DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER.

1941 February 8
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 9
West Byfleet
Company Marches.

1941 February 10
West Byfleet
Company Marches.

1941 February 11
West Byfleet
Company Marches.

1941 February 12
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 13
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 14
West Byfleet
Inspection by the Lieutenant-Colonel.

1941 February 15
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 16
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant R.C.L. FITZWILLIAMS to Air Intelligence Liaison Officers’ Course at OLD SARUM.

1941 February 17
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 2.
2/Lieutenant T. RUSSELL-COBB to Anti-Aircraft (L.M.G.) Course at NORTHOLT.

1941 February 18
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 2.
Captain J.A. MEADE to GUARDS DEPOT.

1941 February 19
West Byfleet
Captain BARON de RUTZEN and 2/Lieutenant P.E.G.W. PARISH to TRAINING BATTALION.
Major J.E. GURNEY, M.C. took over command of H.Q. Company.
Major R.B. HODGKINSON took over command of No. 4 Company.
Captain R.C. SHARPLES, M.C. took over command of No. 3 Company.

1941 February 20
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 21
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 3.

1941 February 22
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 23
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant E.G.F. BEDINGFELD to Company Commanders’ Course at PIRBRIGHT.

1941 February 24
West Byfleet
-

1941 February 25
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise versus 30th GUARDS BRIGADE.
2/Lieutenant S.F. EMANUEL promoted Acting Captain with effect from 17th February 1941.
2/Lieutenant A.A. BUSHELL promoted Acting Captain with effect from 23rd February 1941.

1941 February 26
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise versus 30th GUARDS BRIGADE.

1941 February 27
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise versus 30th GUARDS BRIGADE.
2/Lieutenant P.M. BECKWITH-SMITH promoted Lieutenant with effect from 1st January 1941.
2/Lieutenant E.G.F. BEDINGFELD promoted Lieutenant with effect from 2nd January 1941.

1941 February 28
West Byfleet
-

 

1941 March 1
West Byfleet
ST DAVID’S DAY.
Parade and Service at WEST BYFLEET.
Leeks presented by Brigadier Sir Alexander STANIER, Bt., D.S.O., M.C.
Officers versus Serjeants Football Match: Won by Officers.
Annual St. David’s Day Ball in the Serjeants’ Mess at WEST BYFLEET Golf Club.

1941 March 2
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant W.A.O.J. BELL completed attachment and rejoined TRAINING BATTALION.

1941 March 3
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 4.

1941 March 4
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 4.

1941 March 5
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 6
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 7
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 8
West Byfleet
Extract from War Officer Part 11, Order No. 9 dated 27th March 1941:
“The undermentioned to be War Substantive Lieutenants:-
2/Lieutenant C.F. CRAWSHAY
2/Lieutenant J.A.B. RODERICK
2/Lieutenant M.A.L.F. PITT TIVERS
2/Lieutenant R.C.L. FITZWILLIAMS

1941 March 9
West Byfleet
Captain M.W.T. LEATHAM to Assault Course at Command Weapon Training School at DORKING.
2/Lieutenant H.C. MARTINEAU completed attachment and returned to TRAINING BATTALION.
2/Lieutenant E.M. LING and 2/Lieutenant G.B. GIBSON joined Battalion for attachments.

1941 March 10
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 11
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 5.

1941 March 12
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 13
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 14
West Byfleet
Battalion Signal Exercise.

1941 March 15
West Byfleet
Battalion sent a detachment of 100 Other Ranks under Captain C.H.R. HEBER-PERCY, M.C. and also the Carrier Platoon to take part in the CHERTSEY War Weapons Week Parade.

1941 March 16
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 17
West Byfleet -

1941 March 18
West Byfleet
Battalion Cross Country Run:-
1st:- No. 2736485 Guardsman T. BENFORD
Winning Company:- No. 1 Company

1941 March 19
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise against 24th INDEPENDANT GUARDS BRIGADE GROUP at HAMPSTEAD NORRIS and HAREWELL.

1941 March 20
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise against 24th INDEPENDANT GUARDS BRIGADE GROUP at HAMPSTEAD NORRIS and HAREWELL.

1941 March 21
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise against 24th INDEPENDANT GUARDS BRIGADE GROUP at HAMPSTEAD NORRIS and HAREWELL.

1941 March 22
West Byfleet
Formation of BRIGADE Ant-Tank Company under Captain M.W.T. LEATHEM: 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS Platoon commanded by Lieutenant R.C. TWINING.

1941 March 23
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 24
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 25
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant R.D. GIROUARD attend a Course on the No. 18 W/T Set.

1941 March 26
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant R.D. GIROUARD attend a Course on the No. 18 W/T Set.
Lecture to Battalion by L. LINGRAM Esq. on “Economic Warfare”.

1941 March 27
West Byfleet
Demonstration of Layout of Battalion H.Q.s
Extract from LONDON GAZETTE DATED 21 MARCH 1941: In Recognition of Distinguished Services in the Field, The KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the undermentioned Award:- THE MILITARY CROSS. Captain (Temporary Major) J.C. WINDSOR-LEWIS, D.S.O.

1941 March 28
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 29
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 30
West Byfleet
-

1941 March 31
West Byfleet
-

 

1941 April 1
West Byfleet
Demonstration “Platoon in the attack”.
2/Lieutenant A.J.S. CASSAVETTI and 2/Lieutenant F.L. EGERTON posted to this Battalion.

1941 April 2
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 3
West Byfleet
Demonstration of “Street Fighting”.
Visit by Lieutenant-Colonel.

1941 April 4
West Byfleet
Field Firing Exercise.

1941 April 5
West Byfleet
Field Firing Exercise.

1941 April 6
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 7
West Byfleet
Demonstration of Gas.
2/Lieutenant W.D.D. EVANS to Course at S.A.S NETHERAVON.

1941 April 8
West Byfleet
Battalion Night Drive.
2/Lieutenant R.B. SAWREY-COOKSON posted to the Battalion.

1941 April 9
West Byfleet
Training Films shown at WALTON-on-THAMES.
Lecture on “Re-organisation of Field Ambulance”.

1941 April 10
West Byfleet
Demonstration of “Seizing and Holding a Bridge” by Carrier Platoon.
Demonstration of “Anti-Tank Mines”

1941 April 11
West Byfleet
Brigade Signal Exercise.

1941 April 12
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 13
West Byfleet
Captain R.D. STEWART-BROWN attached to 20th GUARDS BRIGADE.
2/Lieutenant J. CULL completed attachment and went to HOLDING BATTALION.

1941 April 14
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 15
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY to Course on “Security”.

1941 April 16
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 17
West Byfleet
Brigade Signal Exercise.

1941 April 18
West Byfleet
Demonstration of “Company in Advanced Guard and Attack”.

1941 April 19
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 20
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant H.T. CLOSE-SMITH, 2/Lieutenant H.N. WATNEY, 2/Lieutenant A.H.P. HOPE, posted to the Battalion.

1941 April 21
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 22
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 23
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 24
West Byfleet
Battalion Test Exercise.

1941 April 25
West Byfleet
Battalion Test Exercise.

1941 April 26
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 27
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant D.A. PRICE-JONES posted to Battalion.
2/Lieutenant B.F.R. GOFF completed attachment and re-joined HOLDING BATTALION.
2/Lieutenant F.M. EASTWOOD completed attachment and re-joined HOLDING BATTALION.
2/Lieutenant P.M. SYRETT and 2/Lieutenant R.G. WHISKARD attached to Battalion.

1941 April 28
West Byfleet
Film - “Interrogation of Prisoners of War” shown at WALTON-on-THAMES.

1941 April 29
West Byfleet
-

1941 April 30
West Byfleet
-

 

1941 May 1
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 2
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 3
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 4
West Byfleet
Lieutenant M.A.L.F. PITT-RIVERS proceeded on Company Commanders’ Course at LONDON DISTRICT School of Tactics.
2/Lieutenant W. ROBERTS returned from D. & M. Course at HARROGATE.

1941 May 5
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise No. 5.
2/Lieutenant E.T. PELHAM proceeded on a Gas Course to WINTERBOURNE GUNNER.
2/Lieutenant R.B. SAWREY-COOKSON proceeded on Field Works Course to BARTON STACEY.
2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY proceeded on and Aerial Photography Course at FARNBOROUGH.

1941 May 6
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise No. 5.

1941 May 7
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise No. 5.

1941 May 8
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 9
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 10
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY returned from FARNBOROUGH.

1941 May 11
West Byfleet -

1941 May 12
West Byfleet
Battalion Exercise No. 12.

1941 May 13
West Byfleet -

1941 May 14
West Byfleet
Regimental Cricket Match at LORDS: WELSH GUARDS versus GRENADIER GUARDS.

1941 May 15
West Byfleet
Battalion Signal Exercise No. 3.

1941 May 16
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant E.T. PELHAM returned from WINTERBOURNE GUNNER.

1941 May 17
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 18
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 19
West Byfleet
Inspection by the Lieutenant-Colonel Commanding the Regiment.
LONDON War Weapons Week.
Battalion provided Detachments on five occasions.

1941 May 20
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 21
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise.

1941 May 22
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise.


1941 May 23
West Byfleet
Inter-Brigade Exercise.

1941 May 24
West Byfleet
Inspection by the Lieutenant-Colonel Commanding the Regiment.
LONDON War Weapons Week.
Battalion provided Detachments on five occasions.

1941 May 25
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 26
West Byfleet
Captain N.T.L. FISHER attached to HOLDING BATTALION.
Captain R.J.A. WATT attached to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 May 27
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 28
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 29
West Byfleet
Brigade Night Drive.

1941 May 30
West Byfleet
-

1941 May 31
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant M.A.L.F. PITT-RIVERS returned from Course at CHOBHAM

 

1941 June 1
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 2
West Byfleet
Conference at Regimental H.Q. on formation of GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION.

1941 June 3
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 4
West Byfleet
The following promotions noted in Part 1 Orders:-
Captain A.A. BUSHELL to be Temporary Captain - 23rd May 1941
2/Lieutenant J.D. GIBSON-WATT to be War Substantive Lieutenant - 1st April 1941
2/Lieutenant T.M. STEWART to be War Substantive Lieutenant - 6th April 1941
2/Lieutenant B.S.M. KENT to be War Substantive Lieutenant - 16th April 1941
2/Lieutenant R.D. GIROUARD to be War Substantive Lieutenant - 17th April 1941

1941 June 5
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 6
West Byfleet -

1941 June 7
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 8
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 9
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 10
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 11
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 12
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 13
West Byfleet
Inter-Company Drill Competition for Brigadier STANIER Cup at R.M.C. SANDHURST: Won for the second time in succession by No. 1 Company.

1941 June 14
West Byfleet
Battalion Sports Meeting.
First Detachment from Battalio proceeded on ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Courses.
2/Lieutenant W. ROBERTS to D. & M. Course at BOVINGTON.
Lieutenant M.A.L.F. PITT-RIVERS to General Course at R.M.C. SANDHURST.
Lieutenant I.M. STEWART to General Course at R.M.C. SANDHURST.
2/Lieutenant R.B. SAWREY-COOKSON to General Course at R.M.C. SANDHURST.

1941 June 15
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 16
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 17
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 18
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 19
West Byfleet
Battalion Choir recorded by the DECCA GRAMOPHONE COMPANY.

1941 June 20
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 21
West Byfleet
Second Detachment from Battalion to ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Courses.
Captain S.F. EMANUEL to D. & M. Course at BOVINGTON.
Lieutenant J.O. SPENCE to Gunnery Course at BOVINGTON.

1941 June 22
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 23
West Byfleet
All Officers and Senior N.C.O.s visit new location at HENDON.

1941 June 24
West Byfleet
50 N.C.O.s and men for Courses underwent Psychology Test - Good Results.

1941 June 25
West Byfleet
WELSH GUARDS versus COLDSTREAM GUARDS Cricket at LORDS - an easy victory for the Regiment assisted by a century by 2/Lieutenant E.T. PELHAM.

1941 June 26
West Byfleet
No. 3 Company moved to HENDON.
2/Lieutenant A.G. STEWART (No. 2 Company) and 2/Lieutenant B.P.R. GOFF (No. 1 Company) attached to Battalion from HOLDING BATTALION.

1941 June 27
West Byfleet
-

1941 June 28
West Byfleet
Third Detachment from Battalion to ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Courses.
Captain A.A. BUSHELL to D. & M. Course at BOVINGTON.
2/Lieutenant E.T. PELHAM to Gunnery Course at BOVINGTON.
2/Lieutenant M.A.M.L. PONSONBY, 2/Lieutenant Sir M. BECKETT, Bt., 2/Lieutenant H.T. CLOSE-SMITH to General Course at R.M.C. SANDHURST

1941 June 29
West Byfleet
Captain J.D.A. SYRETT attached to Battalion (No. 4 Company).

1941 June 30
West Byfleet
Attached to Battalion from HOLDING BATTALION:-

Lieutenant T.L.R. HARDY (No. 3 Company)
Lieutenant A.J. PEARCE-SEROCOLD (No. 4 Company)
2/Lieutenant W.O.A.J. BELL (No. 2 Company)
2/Lieutenant M.O. RENSHAW (H.Q. Company)
2/Lieutenant G.B. GIBSON (H.Q. Company)
12/Lieutenant R.W. POMEROY (No. 3 Company)

 

1941 July 1
West Byfleet
All Officers above the rank of Captain to 55th TRAINING REGIMENT, ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS, FARNBOROUGH.

1941 July 2
West Byfleet
Captain R.J.A. WATT to Messing Course at LONDON DISTRICT School of Cookery.
2/Lieutenant T.B. SHAUGHNESSY to be War Substantive Lieutenant - 22nd April 1941.

1941 July 3
West Byfleet
8 M.T. Drivers to 1st Battalion WELSH GUARDS, for attachment

1941 July 4
West Byfleet
D. & M. Gunnery and Technical Storeman Courses go.

1941 July 5
West Byfleet
Captain R.J.A. WATT to Gunnery Instructors Course at BOVINGTON.
Captain R.D. STEWART-BROWN and Lieutenant R.D. GIROUARD to Wireless Instructors Course at BOVINGTON.

1941 July 6
West Byfleet
Captain J.D.A. SYRETT 2 day Messing Course.

1941 July 7
West Byfleet
Battalion team win Regimental Relay at HOLDING BATTALION Sports.
2 Officers and 4 N.C.O.s to Firing Demonstration, WEST DOWN CAMP, LARKHILL.

1941 July 8
West Byfleet
-

1941 July 9
West Byfleet
-

1941 July 10
West Byfleet
2/Lieutenant W.D.D. EVANS to be War Substantive Lieutenant 4th May 1941.
D. & M. Gunnery and Technical Storeman Courses to FARNBOROUGH.

1941 July 11
West Byfleet
-

1941 July 12
Mill Hill
LONDON DISTRICT Exercise No. 9.
2/Lieutenant FABER and 2/Lieutenant H.N. WATNEY to General Course, ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Wing, SANDHURST.

1941 July 13
-

1941 July 14
-

1941 July 15
-

1941 July 16
-

1941 July 17
-

1941 July 18
D. & M. Gunnery and Technical Storeman Courses to FARNBOROUGH.

1941 July 19
Major J.E. GURNEY, M.C. to Course of Instruction, ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Tactical School, BULFORD.

1941 July 20
-

1941 July 21
5 Officers to Tank Demonstration.

1941 July 22
Quarterly Audit Board.

1941 July 23
Three Officers to 23rd ARMOURED BRIGADE Exercise.

1941 July 24
Cricket Match versus HOLDING BATTALION WELSH GUARDS.

1941 July 25
1 Company Serjeant Major and 1 Serjeant to Technical Stores Course at CHILWELL.

1941 July 26
-

1941 July 27
-

1941 July 28
-

1941 July 29
-

1941 July 30
-

1941 July 31
Five men for LONDON DISTRICT School of Tactics leave.
1 Company Serjeant Major to 46th ROYAL TANK REGIMENT, CROWBOROUGH.

 

1941 August 1
Hendon
-

1941 August 2
Hendon
Officers and N.C.O.s of HOME GUARD started one week’s attachment to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 August 3
Hendon
-

1941 August 4
Hendon
-

1941 August 5
Hendon
-

1941 August 6
Hendon
-

1941 August 7
Hendon
-

1941 August 8
Hendon
-

1941 August 9
Hendon
-

1941 August 10
Hendon
-

1941 August 11
Hendon
-

1941 August 12
Hendon
-

1941 August 13
Hendon
-

1941 August 14
Hendon
-

1941 August 15
Hendon
-

1941 August 16
Hendon
Officers and N.C.O.s of HOME GUARD started one week’s attachment to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 August 17
Hendon
Lieutenant M.A.L.F. PITT-RIVERS and 2/Lieutenant R.B. SAWREY-COOKSON left 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS to be attached to 50th ROYAL TANK REGIMENT (till 7th September 1941).

1941 August 18
Hendon
2/Lieutenant S.C.F. BATEMAN posted to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from 1st Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 August 19
Hendon
-

1941 August 20
Hendon
-

1941 August 21
Hendon
-

1941 August 22
Hendon
-

1941 August 23
Hendon
-

1941 August 24
Hendon
Captain S.F. EMANUEL left 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS to be attached to 40th ROYAL TANK REGIMENT (till 7th September 1941).
2/Lieutenant A.G. GRAHAM and 2/Lieutenant F.S. PORTAL posted to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 August 25
Hendon
-

1941 August 26
Hendon
-

1941 August 27
Hendon
Concert by the Regimental Band.

1941 August 28
Hendon
-

1941 August 29
Hendon
-

1941 August 30
Hendon
Officers and N.C.O.s of HOME GUARD started one week’s attachment to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 August 31
Hendon
2/Lieutenant H.T. CLOSE-SMITH to attachment to 46th ROYAL TANK REGIMENT (till 13th September 1941).

 

1941 September 1
Hendon
1st W/T Tank Commanders’ Course started (till 13th September 1941).
1st Besa M.G. Course started (till 6th September).
Major C.R. WIGAN, M.C., ceased to be attached to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS and posted to HOLDING BATTALION, WELSH GUARDS

1941 September 2
Hendon
-

1941 September 3
Hendon
-

1941 September 4
Hendon
-

1941 September 5
Hendon
Maintenance Party proceeded to CODFORD, WILTSHIRE.

1941 September 6
Hendon
-

1941 September 7
Hendon
Rejoined 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS:-
Captain S.F. EMANUEL
Captain R.J.A. WATT
Captain P.V.F. CAZALET
Lieutenant R.D. GIROUARD
Lieutenant M.A.L.F. PITT-RIVERS
2/Lieutenant R.B. SAWREY-COOKSON
2/Lieutenant F.L. EGERTON to be War Substantive Lieutenant with effect 13th July 1941
2/Lieutenant M. MENZIES to be War Substantive Lieutenant with effect 21st July 1941
2/Lieutenant E.T. PELHAM to be War Substantive Lieutenant with effect 21st July 1941

1941 September 8
Hendon
-

1941 September 9
Hendon
-

1941 September 10
Hendon
-

1941 September 11
Hendon
Inspection by Major-General Commander BRIGADE OF GUARDS.

1941 September 12
Hendon
-

1941 September 13
Hendon
Address by Brigadier W.A.F.L. FOX-PITT, M.V.O., D.S.O., M.C., Commander 20th GUARDS BRIGADE.
Officer posted from 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS:-

to 1st Battalion WELSH GUARDS:-
Captain R.C. SHARPLES, M.C.

to HOLDING BATTALION, WELSH GUARDS:-
Lieutenant T.L.R. HARDY
Lieutenant F.L. EGERTON
2/Lieutenant G.P.R. GOFF
2/Lieutenant M.O. RENSHAW

to TRAINING BATTALION, WELSH GUARDS:-
Captain J.D.A. SYRETT
2/Lieutenant G.B. GIBSON
2/Lieutenant A.G. STEWART

1941 September 14
Hendon
-

1941 September 15
Hendon
Rejoined 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS:-
Lieutenant I.M. STEWART
2/Lieutenant J.T. FABER
2/Lieutenant H.T. CLOSE-SMITH
1st W/T Operators Course proceeded to and commenced work at CODFORD (till 22nd November 1941)

1941 September 16
Hendon
-

1941 September 17
Hendon
2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS Main Body moved to CODFORD.
2/Lieutenant C. SHEPLEY-CUTHBERT joined 2nd WELSH GUARDS from ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Course.
1941 September 18 Hendon -

1941 September 19
Codford
-

1941 September 20
Codford
-

1941 September 21
Codford
To Course at ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Tactical School, BULFORD:-
Major R.B. HODGKINSON
Major W.L. CONSETT
Captain & Adjutant A.A. DUNCAN rejoined 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Course.

1941 September 22
Codford
1st Gunnery Course started (till 18th October 1941).
D/M Tracked Vehicle Driving Course started (till 27th September 1941).

1941 September 23
Codford
Brigadier A.H.S. ADAIR, D.S.O., M.C. Commander 6th GUARDS ARMOURED BRIGADE visited 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 September 24
Codford
Lieutenant-General G. le Q. MARTEL, C.B., D.S.O., M.C., Commander ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS visited 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.

1941 September 25
Codford
-

1941 September 26
Codford
GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION Intelligence Conference.

1941 September 27
Codford
-

1941 September 28
Codford
Lieutenant M.A.L.F. PITT-RIVERS posted to H.Q. GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION from 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS.
Lieutenant W.R. REES-DAVIES posted to 2nd WELSH GUARDS from H.Q. GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION.
2/Lieutenant H.W.J.E. PEEL attached to 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from TRAINING BATTALION, WELSH GUARDS.
Lieutenant A.D.C. FRANCIS rejoined 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Courses.
2/Lieutenant D.A. PRICE-JONES rejoined 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Courses.

1941 September 29 Codford 2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY rejoined 2nd Battalion WELSH GUARDS from ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Course.
1941 September 1st D/M Tank Commanders’ Course started (till 25 November 1941)
1941 September D/M Tracked Vehicle Driving Course (till 4th October).
1941 September 30 Codford T.E.W.T. No. 1.

 

1941 October 1
Codford
-

1941 October 2
Codford
-

1941 October 3
Codford
-

1941 October 4
Codford
Captain W.L. CONSETT granted Unpaid Acting rank of Major with effect 15th September 1941.
Lieutenant J.O. SPENCER granted Unpaid Acting rank of Captain with effect 15th September 1941.

1941 October 5
Codford
-

1941 October 6
Codford
-

1941 October 7
Codford
1st Driver / Mechanic’s Course started (till 20th October 1941)

1941 October 8
Codford
-

1941 October 9
Codford
2/Lieutenant R.B. SAWREY-COOKSON to two day Course at PYE Limited, Radio Works, CAMBRIDGE.
Visit of Lieutenant-Colonel JEFFERSON and Captain UPJOHN to ENGLISH ELECTRIC Co. STAFFORD and ...

1941 October 10
Codford
... on 10th October to Central Ordnance Depot, CHILWELL.

1941 October 11
Codford
Lieutenant FRANCIS to course at HENRY MEADOWS Ltd., WOLVERHAMPTON (till 25 October)

1941 October 12
Codford
Captain UPJOHN to attachment at ENGLISH ELECTRIC Co. STAFFORD (till 25th October).

1941 October 13
Codford
T.E.W.T. No. 2 All Officers.

1941 October 14 - 16
Codford
Command Troop Training at TILLSHEAD.
Attended by Lieutenant-Colonel JEFFERSON, Major GREENACRE, M.V.O. and Captain A.A. DUNCAN

1941 October 17
Codford
Inspection of Battalion M.T. Vehicles by Major-General Sir Oliver LEESE, Bt., C.B.E., D.S.O., Commanding GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION.

1941 October 18
Codford
-

1941 October 19
Codford
Captain A.A. BUSHELL to Mark V Cruiser Tank Course at WESTON (till 25th October)

1941 October 20
Codford
1st Gunner Refresher Course started (till 25th October)

1941 October 21
Codford
Visit of Brigadier A.H.S. ADAIR, D.S.O., M.C. Commanding 6th GUARDS ARMOURED BRIGADE

1941 October 22
Codford

The following promoted War Substantive Lieutenant with effect 23rd September 1941:-
2/Lieutenant S.O.F. BATEMAN
2/Lieutenant A.J.S. CASSAVETTI
2/Lieutenant J.T. FABER
2/Lieutenant J.S. GWATKIN
2/Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY
2/Lieutenant R.B. SAWREY-COOKSON
2/Lieutenant C. SHEPLEY-CUTHBERT
Phase 1 “CRUNCHER” T.E.W.T. for Battalion Commanders.
Lieutenant-Colonel JEFFERSON attended.

1941 October 23
Codford
Phase 1 “CRUNCHER” T.E.W.T. for Battalion Commanders.
Lieutenant-Colonel JEFFERSON attended.

1941 October 24
Codford
Visit of Colonel R.E.K. LEATHAM, D.S.O. the Lieutenant-Colonel Commanding the Regiment.

1941 October 25
Codford
-

1941 October 26
Codford
Lieutenant STEWART to Mk. V Cruiser Tank Course at WESTON.

Joined Battalion for attachment:-
2/Lieutenant GIBBON
2/Lieutenant WAGNER

1941 October 27
Codford
2nd Gunnery Course started (till 22nd November)

1941 October 28
Codford
2nd D/M Tank Commanders’ Course started (till 29 November)
2/Lieutenant Sir M. BECKETT, Bt. rejoined Battalion from Sick Leave and Course at R.M.C. SANDHURST
Visit of Major-General Sir Oliver LEESE, Bt., C.B.E., D.S.O. Commanding GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION

1941 October 29
Codford
-

1941 October 30
Codford
Visit of Lieutenant-General Sir B. SERGISON-BROOKE, K.C.V.O., C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., Commanding BRIGADE OF GUARDS.

1941 October 31
Codford
Division Day Movement Exercise.

 

1941 November 1
Codford
-

1941 November 2
Codford
Lieutenant A.D.C. FRANCIS to Cruiser Mk. V Course at Divisional School at WESTON. (till 9th November).

1941 November 3
Codford
2nd W/T Tank Commanders’ Course started (till 15th November).
2nd Driver Mechanic’s Course started (till 22nd November).

1941 November 4
Codford
T.E.W.T. No. 3.

1941 November 5
Codford
-

1941 November 6
Codford
-

1941 November 7
Codford
Battalion Movement Exercise.

1941 November 8
Codford
-

1941 November 9
Codford
Lieutenant J.C.R. HOMFRAY to Scout Car Course at Divisional School at WESTON (till 12th November).

1941 November 10
Codford
-

1941 November 11
Codford
Visit by Major-General Sir Oliver LEESE Bt., C.B.E., D.S.O. Commanding GUARDS ARMOURED DIVISION.

1941 November 12
Codford
Visit by General Sir ALAN BROOKE, K.C.B., D.S.O., Commander-in-Chief Home Forces.

1941 November 13
Codford
Commanding Officer attended ‘CRUNCHER’ T.E.W.T. Phase II

1941 November 14
Codford
Lieutenant-Colonel J. JEFFERSON appointed Commander with Acting rank of Brigadier with effect from 30th October.

1941 November 15
Codford
Major W.D.C. GREENACRE, M.V.O. appointed Commanding Officer with Acting rank of Lieutenant-Colonel pending regrant of Temporary rank with effect from 30th October.

1941 November 16
Codford
Captain J.O. SPENCER to Anti-Tank Mine Course at SOUTH PETHERTON (till 19th November).

1941 November 17
Codford
Division Movement Exercise No. 2.

1941 November 18
Codford
Visit of Major-General J.T. CROCKER, C.B.E., D.S.O., M.C.

1941 November 19
Codford
Commanding Officer to Cruiser Mk. V Course at Divisional School at WESTON (till 21st November)

1941 November 20
Codford
Trade Testing of W/T Operators.

1941 November 21
Codford
-

1941 November 22
Codford
Major J.C. WINDSOR-LEWIS, D.S.O., M.C. appointed Second-in-Command with effect 30th October.

1941 November 23
Codford
-

1941 November 24
Codford
Visit of Lieutenant-General The Honourable H.R.I.G. ALEXANDER, C.B., C.S.I., D.S.O., M.C., G.O.C.-in-Command SOUTHERN COMMAND.
Captain S.F. EMANUEL to Tactical Course at ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS Tactical School, BULFORD (till 23rd December).
Young Officer’s D/M Course on Cruiser Mk. V started (till 19th November)
Compass Course started (till 29th November).

1941 November 25
Codford
Troop Training Demonstration by Divisional H.Q. Demonstration Troop.

1941 November 26
Codford
T.E.W.T. No. 4.

1941 November 27
Codford
Commanding Officer attended ‘CRUNCHER’ T.E.W.T. Phase III.

1941 November 28
Codford
Brigade Signal Exercise.

1941 November 29
Codford
-

1941 November 30
Codford
-