War Diary 4th/7th Royal Dragoon Guards July/Aug 1944

Discussion in 'RAC & RTR' started by Ravrick, May 24, 2016.

  1. Ravrick

    Ravrick Senior Member

    Hi, does anybody have access to the war diary for the 4th/7th RDG for July/August 1944 in Normandy. I am trying to find out any information with regards to Tpr A F Ainsworth who was killed in action on the 1st August with B Squadron. A Capt DJ Collins of HQ squadron was also killed on the same day, however I don't know if this was in the same action.

    Any help as to where and how would be appreciated,

    Cheers,
    Rick
     
  2. Tricky Dicky

    Tricky Dicky Don'tre member

    Just for Info from family trees on Ancestry:

    Alan Francis Ainsworth
    1924–1944
    BIRTH 1924 • Bridgnorth, Shropshire County, England, UK
    DEATH 1 AUG 1944 • Bayeux, Calvados, Basse-Normandie, France

    UK, Army Roll of Honour, 1939-1945

    Name Alan Ainsworth
    Given Initials A F
    Rank Trooper
    Death Date 1 Aug 1944
    Number 7960241
    Birth Place Shropshire
    Residence Shropshire
    Branch at Enlistment Royal Armoured Corps
    Theatre of War Western Europe Campaign, 1944/45
    Regiment at Death 4th/7th Royal Dragoon Guards RAC
    Branch at Death Royal Armoured Corps


    TD
     
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  3. SDP

    SDP Incurable Cometoholic

    Have you searched the Creully Club website Newsletters? They are quite comprehensive.
     
  4. Wessex_Warrior

    Wessex_Warrior Junior Member

    Hello,

    I don't know if you have seen "The First and Last" but on that day A Squadron were supporting 7th Somerset Light Infantry and B Squadron were with the 1st Worcestershire's. This means that the Regiment was fighting as separate Squadrons so is probably unlikely that Captain Collins who was the Technical Adjutant was in the same place as Trooper Ainsworth. The book on Page 86 mentions the loss of the B Squadron tank when they came across 3 dug-in tanks on a ridge but no other details. Sgt S. Kelsall HQ Squadron and Corporal T. Peake from C Squadron were also lost on that day.

    Regards,

    Will.
     
  5. Ramiles

    Ramiles Researching 9th Lancers, 24th L and SRY

    Last edited: Jan 11, 2022
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  6. Ravrick

    Ravrick Senior Member

    Hi,
    many thanks for the links, they help put a picture together, I suspect he was killed in the B Sqn tank that is mentioned in one of the above posts and hopefully I will be able to piece together the story one day. .

    Cheers,
    Rick
     
    Last edited: Dec 11, 2021
  7. Ravrick

    Ravrick Senior Member

    Hi, further to this, I have with his medals, scroll and other papers, a small booklet inscribed 'In Memoriam 'B' Squadron 4/7th Dragoon Guards, 7960241 Tpr A F Ainsworth, Killed in Action , near JARQUES 1st August 1944' from this I am assuming B Sqn were operation in that area and it could be his tank that was being recovered by Captain Collins who was subsequently KIA by Shellfire...

    Rick
     
  8. m kenny

    m kenny Senior Member

    I copied the linked War Diary extracts above to Wordpad format to make it easier to 'move it around'.


    4-7 Dragoon Guards June-Aug 1944
    June 1-2
    Regt concentrated - all D Day vehicles at HURSLEY in C.13 CMP (Marshalling Area). D+2 to D+6 (ie A.A. & Recce Troop, A.2 Ech and Q.M. at C.22 at TOOTHILL, remainder at LARKHILL (Bustard Camp).
    June 2
    22:30
    RHQ Tank Troop moved out of HURSLEY IN THEIR craft loads (ie C.Os and troop Ldrs tanks on one L.C.T. (2534) and 2 i/c and (I.O. on another craft (L.C.T. 2535) "B" & "C" loaded at STANSWOOD Bay on to their L.C.Ts "A" & RHQ were on mixed loads with parties from other units, of 68 InfBde. AMn & POL vehicles were loaded onto L.S.Ts to-day with Capt.Verdih (OC A.1 Ech) going over in a Scout Car on an L.C.T. Major I.G.Gill 'MC' (OC 'B' Ech) loaded onto LST.
    June 3
    RHW & 'A' Sqn tanks loaded onto their L.C.Ts in the morning and the craft moored off STANSWOOD Bay.
    June 4th
    24 hr postponement of D Day.
    June 5th
    12th Flotilla L.C.Ts (carrying 'B' & 'C' Sqn DD Tanks i.e.Sherman Mk V specially equipped for swimming with twin propellers and collapsible canvas sides (to give freeboard when afloat and prevent water coming actually on to the top of the tank) set sail in the morning and 51 Flotillla carrying 'A' & RHQtanks set sail at 1230 hrs. D Day is to-morrow. H Hour (i.e. time of A.V.R.E. touching down) is 0725 hrs. Maps were distributed on the craft and all informed of actual places of landing. As practised on all recent exercises 'B' Sqn were to come in on the right and support the 6 Green Howards in the assualt and 'C' Sqn on the left supporting the 5 E Yorks: 'A' Sqn coming in with RHQ at H+60 to support the 7 Green Howards. The sea was moderate to rough and all the craft were tossed about quite a bit.
    June 6th
    0720 '
    B' & 'C' landed (being put right in by the L.C.Ts as the sea was too rough for DD) on the FRENCH coast on the beach running west from LA RIVIERE (on the coast line between CAEN & BAYEUX): this is the spearhead of the 30 Corps assault with the Canadians on our left and Americans on our right. The assault went well and after some trouble in getting off the beach 'A' & 'C' pushed on with their infantry inland. Lieut.D.Mann and Lieut.W.M.A.Lewis were wounded by snipers in LA RIVIERE and Sgt.Vaughan of 'C' Sqn was killed while commanding his tank.
    0850
    'A' & RHQ were all successfully brought in but two tanks of 'A' Sqn failed to get off the shore, one going into a large shell hole on the shore. The beach now was very crowded and narrow as the tide was rising but as yet we were not under fire, the enemy seeming to have been taken completely by surprise. Opposition met was from isolated pockets, platoon localities and snipers: the infantry worked closely with the tanks.
    June 7th
    ST LEGER
    Early stand to at 0430 hrs. Move further South through CREULLY on to BRECY with 'A' Sqn leading. 69 InfBde were in front and the Regt met in position in the afternoon. 'C' Sqn carried out a recce of the ST LEGER feature and South to the Rly and saw no enemy except two 88 mm which knocked out two tanks, as a result of which Cpl Jones and his crew were wounded and Lieut.Wide evacuated his tank with the turret crew after engaging the 88mm After he was hit he and his turret crew got out and managed to return to the Sqn. The Regt harboured at BRECY getting in in good time. An unfortunate accident occurred in the harbour when Lieut.R.D.Hancock (RHQ Tank Troop Ldr) was killed and the Signals Offr badly wounded by one of our own tank Brownings.
    June 8th
    LOUCELLES
    The C.O. attended early conference at BdeHQ plan for the day being for the mobile column leaving on two routes to high ground further South to VILLERS BROCAGE. 24 Lancers and elements of supporting arms (inf and gunners) as defence guard, 4/7 D.G. moving of rear BdeHQ on right route. The column made position in the afternoon in the LOUCELLES area, Heavy mortar fire being encountered just North of the rly when the tanks came out of a narrow valley on to the more open low-lying country. In the evening the Regt harboured with the BdeHQ on high ground just North of LOUCELLES.
    June 9th
    A good nights rest has by all except slightly disturbed by mortar fire. Left harbour at LOUCELLES. Moves South to take feature Point 103 at which point the S.R.Y. had reached previously. "A" & "C" Sqns made a pincer movement on the village AUDRIEU and knocked out on SP gun. "B" and RHQ moving to selected harbour area on the East side of point 103. This feature dominated the ground South, SE and SW and on arrival there, there was a battle going on in which the gunners were playing a big and successful part. "A" Sqn destroyed one Tiger at long range with HE. The harbour area came under mortar fire and an enemy tank was seen to the East of the locality and the Regt was then drawn over the center of the feature placed in watching position for the night "C" Sqn Had two personnel wounded by mortar fire. The Regt now had some 39 tanks fit for war and it had suffered the following casualties in personnel: Officers Killed 2, Wounded 6, Missing Nil, and O.Rs Killed 8, Wounded 17, Missing 7.
    June 10th
    AUDRIEU
    The position was subjected to mortar fire by the enemy all night. No casualties were inflicted. The Regt stood to at 0430 hrs and as soon as daylight came an enemy counter-attack developed from the South and SW. The 8 D.L.I. responsible for the perimeter on this side were in danger of being overrun but the BdeComd, who handled the battle with confidence brought the Sqn of the S.R.Y. round the enemy's left flank just in time and many casualties were inflicted on the enemy who were beaten off. The Regt did not have a major engagement itself in this battle but all three Sqns played their part in supporting the Infantry defending the perimeter. Great importance was attached to this feature by Higher Formation and the Bde did very well in retaining it in no uncertain manner. In the evening all was quite. 24 L moved a Sqn SW to ST PIERRE to clear up that village and this Regt provided patrols in the evening to the East of Point 103.
    June 11th
    CRISTOT
    The morning was quite except for occasional mortaring. In the afternoon the Regt supported an attack by the 6 Green Howards on CRISTOT, a village about a mile to the East of Point 103, with the intention of gaining position of Point 102, another dominating feature. Prior to this attack "B" Sqn and the C.Os in his tank, made a recce in force of the approaches to the village and point 102, and met considerable opposition from hidden snipers andmachine gunners who seemed to be in every hedge. However there were no casualties to us. For the attack the Infantry went in two Coys up with "B" Sqn supporting on the right and "C" Sqn on the left. The Infantry crossed start line at 1720 hrs and soon met opposition in the way of machine gunners and snipers. The country was very close for tanks and long close and thick hedges made it impossible to see the enemy who inflicted severe casualties on the Infantry. A very sticky time. The left hand Sqn reached the objective but the infantry could not get in further than theoutskirts of the village and had to withdraw after a lot of casualties. "B" Sqn on the right got into the outskirts of the village but bumped into anti-tank guns and lost 7 tanks and casualties which included "B" Sqn2 i/c (Capt R.J.F.Abel) and Lieut.G.G.R.Moore. About 2030 there was a threat from enemy tanks in the SW. These tanks were numbered about 9 and were Tigers and Mk.IVs. They approached Point 103 feature and started to shoot it up and this caused apparently, considerable disorganisation among those there and a number of casualties to other units occurred. Tanks then moved off Eastwards and as darkness began to fall one was seen moving from out Artillery barrage, going in the direction of CRITOT with out Infantry and two carriers all on the same road. The Regt after this unsuccessful evening returned to Point 103. When attack by Green Howards had failed our fwdtrp were withdrawn after Green Howards had come back to S.P.C.O. of Green Howards asked if we could try to help wounded to get out from fwd positions and also others who were pinned down. 2 i/c was unable to get wireless touch for covering fire so took Blenhein back alone to where wounded were. As he got there three Germans fired from about 50 yds range, and he used his Sten from the turret, accounting for one of them. He and his gunner then dismounted and loaded wounded on to tank, the dead body of C.O. of 5 E.Yorks and also some unwounded men who had not been unable to move until the arrival of the tank, being pinned down. As he got back into the turret two more Germans raised themselves on the bank as if to fire. A quick burst of Sten was put down and subsequently kept up as the tank withdrew. (The turret could not be traversed on account of the wounded on theoutside). All the men aboard were brought safely back and this action also enabled another 15 men to get away who would otherwise not have been able to move. The M.O. (Capt.S.C.H. Hood) did particular brave and noble work in helping to deal with the numerous casualties
    June 12th
    Little to report except patrol activity during the day. In the evening the Regt moved out to go for a rest in harbour near a farm about two miles South of BAYEUX. The move was done by night along considerably dusty roads.
    June 13th
    Late reveille. Morning spent in the cleaning up and reorganising. Unexpectedly the Regt was called upon in the afternoon to go to support 6 and 9 D.L.I. (151 Bde) in an attack on the high ground dominating TILLY SUR SEULLES. Once again the country was very close and not suitable for tanks especially on the left flank where "C" Sqn operated. The attack was successful on the village of MARCEL but "C" Sqn lost one tank and three O.Rs taken prisoner. "B" Sqn did not participate in this attack and were allowed to take a well earned rest. 10 more tanks and crews came up from Dely Sqn. "A" and "C" Sqns withdrew from the positions gained at about 2200 hrs and returned to the old harbour.
    June 14th
    HOTTOT.
    "C" Sqn were given a holiday. "A" and "B" (and of course RHQ) moved out at 0930 hrs and joined the 151 Bde again in the two- phase attack with the objective of capturing the HOTTOT. feature and the village about one and half miles SE of TILLY. The attack was well supported by Artillery and RAF preparations. "A" Sqn were on the right with the 9 D.L.I. and "B" Sqn on the left with 6 D.L.I. After Strenuous fighting in which "B" Sqn lost 5 tanks and following casualties: killed 5, wounded 3 and missing 4. Phase I i.e. attainment of the line of the road East - West through LINGEVRES was complete at about 1400 hrs. The infantry dug in in the position. Phase II was not continued with. "A" Sqn operating on the right flank had a wonderful day and knocked out 5 Panthers one anti-tank gun and one half-track and captured intact one 'Peoples Car' and one half-track which were brought back for use in the Regt. Sgt. Harris was responsible for 4 Panthers and Capt Stirling for one. It was a great sight to see all these enemy Panthers burning in a row. "A" and "B" Sqns withdrew from the positions gained by the Infantry to harbour at BAYEUX leaving troops to keep the Infantry company for the night.
    June 15th
    Complete day of rest for "A", "B" and HQ. No attacking was done by 50 Div and "C" Sqn undertook responsibility of supporting for the 151 Bde in their front.
    June 16th
    "C" Sqn relieved "B" Sqn of their duties at 151 Bde and local defence South of LINGEVRES was made otherwise the day was quite.
    June 17th
    ArmdBde less 4/7 D.G. came under comd of 49 Div at 1000 hrs. The Regt remained in mobile reserve with 50 Div. In the afternoon the Regt less "C" Sqn (who were in support of 151 Bde just West of LINGEVRES) supported an attack on TILLY SUR SEULLES. "A" Sqn were in support of the Essex Regt and 6 D.L.I. and at 1615 hrs sent a patrol round the right flank of TILLY. Attack due to commence with Artillery barrage at 1600 hrs. Things went slowly to start with, but the enemy put down a little shell fire on the road leading to TILLY, from the North. Infantry were held up along a line 1/4 - 1/2 mile North of the town those on the right flank getting abreast of the town i.e. 6 D.L.I. Progress was extremely slow owing to Spandau and snipers fire, and "A" Sqn had one tank with a track blown off on a mine. At 2100 hrs the Infantry commenced digging in and consolidating their positions just North and West of TILLY. RHQ had been at SUCEELS during this battle. "C" Sqn on the right with the 6 Green Howards made a successful local defence South of LINGEVRES to area Point 113. The Recce Tp section with "C" Sqn lost their tanks and one driver missing.
    2230
    RHQ and "B" Sqn, who had been in reserve, withdrew to harbour about a mile North of BUCEELS and spent a quite night.
    June 18th
    The C.O. attended a conference at 151 BdeHQ at 0900 hrs when plans for further attack on TILLY were laid on for the afternoon. "B" Sqn took over "A" Sqns position in support of the Essex and 6 D.L.I. at 1200 hrs. The day was extremely wet making observation by tank gunners very difficult. Attack commenced at 1500 hrs. "B" Sqn supported 6 D.L.I. 1520 hrs leading elements of 6 D.L.I. reached line half a mile NE of TILLY their objective being the high ground South of TILLY at MONTILLY. Enemy tanks were reported West of MONTILLY (although ST PIERRE the next village to the West is in 49 Div's hands).
    1600
    "A" Sqn who had one Tp with the Essex in the West on the road to TILLY, sent two Tps to help "B" Sqn and although country was extremely difficult for tanks and the objective partly surrounded by a natural anti-tank obstacle, Two Tps of "A" Sqn and "B" Sqn succeeded by 1615 hrs in getting onto the objective and making a firm base. "B" Sqn had two tanks hit, which were recovered, and knocked out one PzKW IV. Prisoners taken from the 7 Bn 901 Panzer Grenadiers said that his Coy had suffered very many casualties during the last two days. Two other prisoners were taken by "B" Sqn and stated that they had just returned from leave!!! RHQ (consisting of the C.Os and Sgt.Porter's tanks) stayed throughout the battle by the 151 Bde HQ near the main road running South into TILLY. TILLY itself was only partly taken by the Essex. The Infantry consolidated their positions and the tanks were withdrawn to the harbour North of BUCEELS as darkness fell. "C" Sqn remained out in the area West of LINGEVRES with 69 Bde. The A.1 Ech ammunition and petrol vehs made a perilous but successful journey to "A" and "B" Sqns in the evening and refilled them in the TILLY area. The following message was received from the Brigadier during the day. "The Corps Comdr visited the Bde this morning and asked me to tell you how very pleased he was with the Bde and how he congratulates them on the tremendous efforts they have made and the excellent results they have achieved. He stressed how well the general landing operation had gone and how pleased both the Prime Minister and General Montgomery were with the situation".
    June 19th
    "C" Sqn remained with 69 Bde and had a quite day. "B" Sqn to-day supported the 231 Bde in the afternoon (2 Devons, 1 Hants and 1 Dorsets) in an advance half a mile to the South of LINGEVRES. For the first time the tanks were not called for by the Infantry Brigadier in impossible or unnecessary tasks, the country again being close and most unsuitable for tanks. The infantry using their own Anti-tank weapons claimed 4 enemy tanks, believed to be Tigers. "B" Sqn did not have much of a shoot and were largely occupied in getting themselves into proper positions to meet enemy tank threats which was very difficult. Up to 1600 hrs there was tremendous Artillery support (the whole Corps artillery being available) and the 2 Devons successfully made their objective. Unfortunately the C.O. of the 1 Dorsets (Lt.Col.Norris) was wounded. "B" Sqn remained in mobile reserve to the Bde just behind the Infantry until darkness and then returned to the Regt's new home at a farm in FOLLIOT (near JURUSALEM about 4 miles South of BAYEUX). "C" Sqn also returned to Regtl harbour, getting in after dark.
    June 20th
    The Regt is now mobile reserve to the 50 Div and spent a quite day in harbour at FOLLIOT, A.q Ech also being here. "A" and "C" Sqn LdrLdrs (Major Goldsmid and Major Bell) attended conference with the 6 Green Howards and 5 E Yorks at the 69 Bde concerning proposed attack on ONCHY and LONGRAYE which is to take place on the 22nd.
    June 21st
    Owing to the inclemental weather not much unloading is being done on the beaches and aircraft are mainly grounded and the 69 Bde attack was postponed. The Regt received orders to send on Sqn to 49 Div on the 23 June leaving two with 50 Div and RHQ. Lieut.W.Davies promoted to Capt vice Capt. Abel who was killed at CRITOT on 11-6-44
    June 22nd
    FOLLIOT
    The Adjt attended conference at Bde to discuss reinforcements in tanks and personnel. At the moment Sqn tank strength are as follows: "A" - 14, "B" - 14, "C" 16, HQ - 4 (this includes 5 17-pdr Shermans in "A" Sqn).
    June 23rd
    Another quite day resting.Orders received from 50 Div for the Regt less one Sqn ("B" Sqn) to come under command 49 InfDiv with effect from 1200 hrs, 24th. "B" Sqn are to remain 50 Div for the forth coming operation. Details given below. 2nd/Lt Shepperson and 2nd/Lt Simmonds arrived and were posted to "B" Sqn reinforcements. Ly-Col. L.E.Misa, D.S.)., and Col.G.E. de Pass, D.S.O., called in the evening. A present of 10 cigarettes per man was received from General Montgomery. In his letter the C-in-C said: "your chaps have done, and are doing, very well. Tell them from me that I am delighted with 50 Div"
    June 24th
    FOLLIOT
    Again quite. Two or three Boche planes were seen through normally the only planes in the sky are our own. The gunners near here put up a terrific barrage in the evening believed to be counter-battery work. There was no enemy shelling in reply. One extra Firefly and four more 75mm Shermans and 2 Honeys arrived from the Fwd.Del.Sqn. The C.O. held a SqnLdrs conference at 1200 hrs and issued detail for the forthcoming operation 'Dauntless.'
    June 25
    The following letter was received from HQ, 69 InfBde to-day "Dear Byron, I feel I must write to you about the magnificent help the 69 BdeGp received from your regiment on D Day. From the moment we got together for the lengthy planning for the assault landing I personally felt, and I know my COs did also, that we should be a happy and useful combination and so it has proved. The fact that the Bde broke through the beach defences and gained its objectives eleven miles inline by 12 noon on D plus 1 was very largely due to the first class co-operation between you Sqn and Tp Comds and their opposite numbers in the 5 E Yorks, 6 and 7 Green Howards. Our comparatively light casualties were also due to the magnificent way your gun numbers dealt with the numerous Spandaus and their crews encountered in the many engagements from the beach to ST. LEGER. I think all ranks of your regt already know every officer and man of this Bde thinks of the 4/7 Dgnd but in case there is any doubt, I should be grateful if you could convey to them out appreciation of their very gallant work with this Bde. Our great hope is that your chaps will again be with us in our future scraps with the Hun. Yours ever, F.C.Knox, Brigadier." To-day "B" Sqn continued under command 50 Div and shot up one Mk.IV. Remainder of the Regt took part in Corps attack on the FONTENAY-TESSELL-RAURAY area. The Regt was in Div reserve and remained hidden up behind Point 103. Corps plan shortly was as follows: On D Day (25th June) 49 Div were to push South to Capture TESSELL wood enabling 50 Div on the right to advance to GRANVILLE and St. VAAST. D plus 1 15 Scottish Div were to capture the CHEUX feature to the East of TESSEL wood following which 49 Div were to push further South to VENDES and MONTS, the Regt being given the role, with the 12 K.R.R.C. of watching roads to the west.
    June 26th
    The following Special Order of the Day by Maj.Gen. E.H.Barker CB, CBE, DSO, MC was received from the Comdr 49th (West Riding) InfDiv. "Yesterday the 49 (WR) Div was given the task of making the first break in the German defences which, owing to delay imposed on us by weather conditions, he had had time to strengthen considerably. We had in front of us a difficult position and it was held by some of the best German Troops of 12 SS Pz Div. The result was the success we expected, but the fact that it was a success was due to the magnificent spirit, efficiency and fighting qualities of the commanders and troops tat took part. I send them all my congratulations and heartfelt thanks for the part they have played sp successfully. I am thankful to know that such a small proportion of casualties were killed, especially in the 11 RSF which had such bitter fighting in FONTENAY. The infantry bore the brunt of the fighting and have excelled themselves, but success could not have been achieved without the excellent support of the 8 Armd Bde and the Arty of the Div. The administration in the rear both as regards to dumping vast quantities of ammunition and the evacuation of casualties has been equally excellent. The 49 Div has now proved itself in battle against a tough and experienced enemy and results auger well for its future fortunes. Again my congratulations and good luck. E.H.Barker, Maj.Gen, Comd 49 Div". The Regiment was in support of 49 Div in operation from Tessel wood to Rauray. Plan Div appeared unsatisfactory and operating in extremely bad country we had a very bad day and could not get on. Sqns being held up on the River line East of Tessel. "C" Sqn losing 4 tanks to 2 Tigers and Panthers holding the crossing. The Regiment returned to Pt.103 in the evening.
    June 27th
    Sqns were disposed in Area Pt.103 in case of enemy counter attack, and the whole regiment moved in the evening to Pt.102 to the East of pt.103. This was the dominating feature over which the battle had been waged and was a filthy area to harbour in. The Commanding Officer held O Group 2300 hrs, in pouring rain.
    June 28th
    "A" & "B" Sqns, moved out early to support the D.L.I. and Tynes Scots in an attack on to Rauray. RHQ joining the battle HQ of the D.L.I. at the start line (a warm spot). The Infantry with out support got on to the feature Brettevillette. The Regiment harboured for the night North of Fontenay le pesnil near St.Nicholas farm.
    June 29th
    Support of Infantry in Rauray area continued. In the evening RHQ's area was shot up and later smoked off by our own armour (Churchills who were on our left) and they treated "B" Sqn, likewise until Captain W.Davies was sent hurriedly over in a Jeep to stop the performance.
    June 30th
    The Regiment withdrew into reserve at Les Haut Vents with orders for an immediate move to Pt.102 if the enemy counter attacked. It is known to-day that the whole of the available German Armour (parts of 9 SS Pz Div) is now on the British front. "B" Sqn, remained in close support of the 10th D.L.I. in the Rauray area, no attack developing on their front. Lieut.J.H.G.Ford who had been liaising with the 7 R.T.R. who were on our right went down South of Cheux with Battalion before returning to the regiment in his A/A Crusader. The following message was received from Commander 30 Corps: "Personal for Commander 49 Div from Commander 30 Corps (.) Please convey to all officers and men my heartiest congratulations at the splendid way in which 49 Div and 8 Armd. Bde have fought forward grimly and determinedly over beastly country against the stiffest opposition of the best German forces (.) You now occupy the key position of the Second Army front and I am completely confident that you will hold it against the severest Boche counter blows. The hottest part of the struggle is brewing and I know you will play a furious and glorious part in a shattering defeat of the best German armies. Well done 49 I am proud to have you with me again.
     
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  9. m kenny

    m kenny Senior Member

    July

    July 1st
    The Regiment spent a quite day at LES HAUTS VENTS being at 10 minutes notice to move throughout the day to support, if necessary, SRY and 24L in RAURAY area. 24L and the Infantry of the 70 Bde knocked out 22 panthers, one Tiger and one S.P.when the enemy made attacks upon a Company scale throughout the day. During the night there was moderate enemy shelling activity in our area through nothing too close, some six barrelled mortars being used. Our artillery put up a big barrage in reply.
    July 2-3
    The Regiment still in reserve at LES HAUTS VENTS. Numerous recces made but no move.
    July 4th
    The Regiment left LES HAUTS VENTS at 0900 hrs. and moved back to an area behind B Echelon for a rest, two miles N of CHOUAIN. The Commanding Officer held a Sqn.Ldrs. conference in the afternoon at which routine matters were settled.
    July 5th
    First fine day for some time. "A" Sqn held a best turn out parade in the morning on which all ranks appeared once again with Regtly. collar dogs and lanyards which was good to see. The Regiment is a 24 hours notice and Sqns. are doing 100 hrs. maintenance duties on their tanks. Parties from Sqns. had
    July 6th
    Maintenance continued. Commanding Officer attended conference at Bde at 1000 hrs. and held Sqn.Ldrs conference at 1400 hrs. issuing preparator orders for forthcoming operations with 50 (N) Div. Summary as follows:- (a) The regiment os to move over to 50 Div area near BERNIERS BOCAGE 1300 hrs. 7th July coming under command 50 Div 1000 hrs. 6th July for Operations only. (b) Intention, To support an attack on Saturday 8th July by 56 Bde. Objective being road running E-W by LA CROIX DES LANDES. The Regiment less "C" Sqn. is under command 50 Div. in this Operation. "C" Sqn. being in reserve. "A" and "B" Sqn.Ldrs. to go and contact C.Os of 2 Essex and 2 S.W.B. respectively to make recce to-day. Portion of Recce and A/A Tps. and A1 Echelon to remain in present harbour North of CONDE SUR SOULLES as holding party. Regiment to be prepared to move 1300 hrs. 7 July. "B" and "C" Sqns. to be on Regtl. net, "A" Sqn. on Sqn net, third set in C.Os tank on "A" Sqn. frequency. The remaining portion of the Regiment completed baths to-day.
    July 7th
    "A" and "B" and RHQ move to BERNIERS BOCAGE, "C" Sqn. remaining in reserve, "A" and "B" Sqns. joining the Essex and S.W.B. respectively.
    July 8th
    H hour 0800 for "A" and "B". Very slow attack but objective reached by "B" Sqns.Inf. near GRANVILLE, but who were shelled out and had to retire. RHQ remained with 56 Bde.HQ i.e.C.Os and Sergt.Porter's tanks. 2 I/C. and I/C and I.O. with "C" Sqn. Sqns. had formed rally for the night.
    July 9th
    "A" and "B" Sqns. still with their Battalions. A counter attack by the enemy was held, "B" Sqn. doing good work. Owing to 56 Bde. Operations being captured BdeHQ moved a mile away to avoid enemy reaction.
    July 10th
    The Regiment was released at 1600 hrs. having had little to do except to be under mortar fire, but "B" Sqn. stayed out until 0200 hrs. 11 July, and then moved back to Harbour at CANCAGNY North of CONDE SUR SEULLES.
    July 11th
    Rest day in Camp. Squadrons had baths and entertainment at BAYEUX.
    July 12th
    0345 hrs. Orders received to send one Sqn. ("C") to move at First Light to area WEST of TILLY to be in support of 70 Bde (49 Div). 2 i/c and Major T.M.Bell had to be sent to an early hour to contact Bn. Comdrs. of 10 D.L.I. at Bn. HQs. Though originally at 24 hrs. notice, the Sqn. moved out at 0700 hrs. and took up positions with 10 D.L.I. The Regiment less "C" Squadron moved out to relieve 24L in area LES HAUT VENTS in the early afternoon. the Regiment's role being an offensive one to operate on RAURAY or ST.PIERRE in case of an enemy counter attack. 23H of the 11th Armd.Div were on our left and contact was made with them. A few shells fell within 200 yds of the Regiment in the evening otherwise all quite. "C" Sqn. were released at 2100 hrs. and returned to harbour at CONDE SUR SEULLES.
    July 13th
    Quite day. Brig.G.E.Prior Palmer, Col.M.Aird, Capt.E.H.Frank and Capt.V.Jillard, also out former Padre, Revd.Farther Murphy of 27th Armd.Bde. paid us a very welcome visit in the afternoon. The DD Regts of 27th Armd.Bde swam on D-Day successfully and have been operating in the area N.of.CAEN. Strangely enough they have not encountered any panthers in that area, onLY Mk.IVs.
    July 14th
    Our own brigadier called in the morning and the Commanding Officer attended demonstration at 12 K.R.R.C. in the afternoon on the use of PIAT which was very encouraging. Nothing else to report except slight enemy air activity when three out of four Messerschidts were shot down at one time during the afternoon. Our own A/ATp. claimed a share in one ME. Lt. Col.P.Harding DSC (C.O.23H) called in the afternoon.
    July 15th
    Nothing to record except the great news of the immediate awards by the C.in.C. of :-
    DSO Lt. Col.R.G.Byron. Major J.A.d'Avigdor Goldsmid.
    MC Major S.R.M.Jenkins. Lieut.N.S.Wide. Lieut.T.E.Apps.
    DCM No.404143 Sergt.Harris W.
    MM No.404491 Sergt.Fry C.No.7955283 Trp.Draper D.F.
    "C" Sqn relieved "B" Sqn. in the forward area by LES HAUTS VENTS,
    "B" Sqn. returning to harbour near CONDE SUR SEULLES.
    July 16th
    The Commanding Officer made a recce of our new area N.E. of CAUMONT where we are to move with 8th Armd.Bde. on 17-7-44. Big attack by 12 Corps away to our left at approx 0130 hrs. followed by 49 Div. attack on line VENDES-BARBEE farm commencing 0500 hrs. also with the object of clearing the JUIRGNY woods on the SEULLES River. A tremendous artillery barrage was put up by our guns continuously from 0530hrs. to 0730 hrs. and intermittently throughout the day. 4 alleged Tigers were reported by 147 Bde. to be in area three quarter of a mile to the East of VENDES at 1530 hrs.2 I/C and O.C. "C" Sqn. proceeded immediately to 147 BdeHQ to get details and orders. Major C.B.R.Pollock RAMC who had been M.C. since the unfortunate death of Capt.S.C.H. Hood left the Regiment to-day on posting. His departure was much regretted by all.
    July 17th
    The Regiment moved to an area NE of CAUMONT and took over portion of the line from Unit of the 2nd U.S. Armd.Div. we ourselves being in immediate support of 12 K.R.R.C. Move completed without incident. RHQ situated half a mile NORTH of ST.HONORINE DE DUCY.
    July 18th
    All quite except for an occasional shell in our area. The Commanding Officer went to Bde. to take over temporary comd. of the Bde. during the absence of Brigadier H.J.B.Cracroft DSO who is sick. Major G.K.Barker undertook command of the Regiment. Squadron Leaders conference held in the morning and in the afternoon. Commanding Officer, Sqn.Ldrs. and Adjt. visited 12 K.R.R.C. whom we are supporting to tie up plan for their support.
    July 19th
    A" Squadron supplied 1 Troop in support of 2 Glos. who planned to push on a bit further if the Bosche had retired as he had done in HOTTOT area. Patrol of the 2 Glos however met a little opposition and no advance was made by the Glos. The "A" Squadron Troop was not committed and returned in the evening.
    July 20th
    "A" Squadron had again to supply a Troop in support of the 56 Bde this time with the 2 S.W.B. in the GRANVILLE area.
    July 21st
    Nothing to report. Two Officers from HQ,AFV School, Bovington and the Gunnery Wing at Lulworth called in the afternoon and discussed with Squadron Representatives various problems dealing with the Sherman D.&M. and Gunnery. A very wet day during the course of which the Signal trench became waterlogged with disastrous results.
    July 22nd
    Nothing to report
    July 23rd
    The Adjutant attended short conference on personnel situation at Bde.H.Q. in the morning. Brigadier G.E.Prior Palmer took over command of 8th Armd.Bde. to replace Brigadier H.J.B.Cracroft who is sick.
    July 24th
    Nothing to report.
    July 25th
    At 0500 hrs. Warning order received of enemy tracked vehicles in area BREQUET just SOUTH of left flank on the 12 K.R.R.C. line. "B" Squadron warned - no further action taken as nothing developed. Major G.K.Barker and the Adjutant visited No.2.A.R.G. HQ near BAYEUX in an effort to get reinforcements - actually only 6 men were chosen, and these will join the Regiment in a day or two.
    July 26th
    Major G.K.Barker attended Bde conference in the morning which concerned many matters of policy, e.g. Courses, future of A/A and Recce Troops, Formation and Unit numbers etc. Lt. Col.D.Silvertop called; he now and has for some time commanded The 3rd R.T.R. and was with the Regiment in France in 1940 in "A" Squadron, his own Regiment being the 14/20th. Major G.K.Barker and Squadron Leaders made a Recce of Regimental concentration area near LA BUTTE due NORTH of our present position where we may have to go in the near future. A/A Troop personnel commenced Sherman D.&M abd Gunnery classes with a view to making them suitable as Sabre Squadron tank crews if required.
    July 27th
    Nothing to report. Major G.K.Barker held a short Squadron Leader conference.
    July 28th
    At 2300 hrs. Boche aeroplane dropped a very large number of Anti Personnel bombs over the area occupied by RHQ. Captain W.Davies and Trp.Monks were killed and 2/Lt. J.P.Jones and 13 O.Rs were wounded.
    July 29th
    Major G.K.Barker and the Adjutant attended Brigadier G.E.Prior Palmer's O Group in the morning for orders for Operation through CAHAGNES to secure BOIS des HOMMES feature. Summary of Orders are as follows:- Information: Hun pulling back and we are to attack and secure ground which might be used by him as a pivot for the defence and 30 Corps on the left, 43 Div, 50 Div, 7 Armd.Div, 8 Armd.Bde 11 Hussars and 8 Corps on the right are to assist the exploitation of the U.S. Forces who are sweeping so successfully through into Brittany. We are under comd. 43 Div.Method: 3 Phases:
    Phase 1. Capture of CAHAGNES feature to be done by 131 Bde. with 4 Som. and S.R.Y. in support.
    Phase 2. Capture of Pt.762 and LA BUISSON and mopping up of LE HOIS. 4/7 DG with 214 Bde and 12 K.R.R.C. with two Troops Flails and 2 17 Pdr. Anti-Tank Batteries under comd.
    Phase 3. Capture of BOIS des HOMMES to be done by 219 Bde with S.R.Y. in support.
    1300
    Major G.K.Barker and Lt.Col. Oxley (Commanding Officer, 12 K.R.R.C.) contacted Brigadier Esame Commanding 214 Bde. Lt.Col. R.G.Byron DSO came back in the evening and re-assumed command.
    July 30th
    Initial operation in the CAHAGNES attack mis-fired. Commanding Officer's and Sergt.Porter's tanks spent the day a mile NORTH of the Regimental harbour awaiting developments.
    July 31st
    RHQ moved down to area about a mile N.E. CAUMONT with 214 Bde, the Regiment coming down under comd. Major.G.K.Barker. Move forward by the Infantry supported by "A" Squadron and "B" Squadron, ("A" on the right, "C" on the left) with the Som. and Worcs. respectively commenced late that night to try and get to the start line near CAHAGNES. Traffic on the road was impossible and a long delay ensued.
     
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  10. m kenny

    m kenny Senior Member

    August

    Aug 1st
    The Regt. moved out from area NE of CAUMONT very early, the Commanding Officer's and Sergt. Porter's tanks moving with 214 Bde HQ. 1 Worcs. led followed by 2nd S.L.I with "B" & "A" Sqns. respectively. objective was CAHAGNES and high ground beyond. RHQ moved in morning to CAHAGNES with Bde H.Q. where they were shelled. Sqns. saw their Inf. on despite some opposition. By mid-day "B" Sqn. were within 400 yds of their objective. "C" sqn. working with D.C.L.I. brewed up a Panther and took some prisoners, "A" and "C" Sqns. were released and returned to harbour in the evening "B" Sqn. remaining out until 2130 hrs. with their Inf. The Regt. harboured N. of CAHAGNES that night and remained in that area most of the next day. captain D.J. Collins who had been Technical Adjt. since November, 1943 was unfortunately killed by a shell in the evening when returning from recovering a "B" sqn. tank. He was a most energetic officer and a very able Technical Adjutant.
    Aug 2nd
    Orders received for us to move with the 214 Bde thorough JURQUES on to DUVAL (7945) "B" Sqn. working with D.C.L.I. "C" Sqn. with the Worcs. and "A" Sqn. with the S.L.I. "B" & "C" Squadrons joined their Inf. in the evening "A" Sqn. not moving till following morning.
    Aug 3rd
    Inf. were held up S. of JURQUES where the enemy were on a high feature which wes almost unapproachable for tanks except up the main road. However "B" Sqn. pushed on to JURQUES and helped the D.C.L.I. on to their objective from which they already had to come about 400 yds. "A" Sqn. supplying supporting fire from the left. Tigers were reported in the area and at mid-day a Typhoon attack was seen to go in on them. "A" sqn. being in a very good position acted very successfully as an O.P. for the Gunners who hit an enemy tank.
    1830 hrs. The Commanding officer held "0" Gp. though there were no actual orders available for us as yet, but quick move probable, the Inf. to do a detour on to their objective without tank support.
    Aug 4th
    No move. Every indication of enemy withdrawing, and the Inf. were trying to maintain contact by pushing on to their final objective SE of JURQUES.
    Aug 5th
    The Regt. married up again with the Inf. (214 Bde) and RHQ moved in the morning to area LE MESNIL AUZOF. In the meantime operations being carried on by 50 Div. with 13/18 H and SRY with the object capturing MT. PINCON feature.
    2200. warning order issued for Operation BLACKWATER (dependant upon the capture of MT. PINCON and PLESSIS GRIMOULT. 53 Recce Regt. (commanded by Lt.Col.L.Williams) have obtained a crossing at THURY HARCOURT. Intention. 43 Div. will secure crossing at CONDE SUR NOIREAU, 8 Armd.Bde. less 13/18 H. leading on two routes with the Regiment on East route with under command 12 KRRC and Troop W.Dragoons (Flails).
    Aug 6th
    Commanding officer and Adjutant attended conference at Brigade obtaining details of route and orders for Operation BLACKWATER. Marrying up with Tps. under Comd. (FOOs from 86 Fld.Regt. R.Es.m and flails) completed by 0700 hrs. operation timed to start 1000 hrs. was postponed until 1830 hrs. when the Regiment moved out with "A" Sgn. and "A" Coy of the 12 KRRC leading. We were directed on to CONDE SUR NOIREAU via LA QUESNE and LA PLESSIS GRINOULT. 214 Inf.Bde. to follow on the routes used by 8 Armd.Bde. The advance proceeded about 4 miles and the whole column halted in a narrow defile and later the Regt. curled up in the best place it could find off the road for the night. During the night "A" Coy. had to send out a patrol to the X-rds which got badly mortared and the R.Es successfully bull-dozed a bomb crater under fire.
    Aug 7th
    Change of plan. The Regt. is to return to 50 Div. less "C" Sqn who would remain under comd. 43 Div. RHQ established for the day at HQ 214 Inf. Bde. "A" & "B" Sqns. engaged in assisting the 12 KRRC in dealing with enemy on our right flank.
    Aug 8th
    Night was quiet. The commanding officer visited in the morning. 12 KRRC were engaged by enemy coming up from the SOUTH and "C" Sqn. in the afternoon (with two Tps only) were engaged in supporting the Worcs. in clearing up operations along the road WEST of LE PLESSIS GRIMOULT and this operation proceeded satisfactorily. Later in the evening "A", "B" & RH less C.Os and Sergt.Porter's tanks moved to POSTY on Northern slopes of MT. PINCON PRIOR TO MARRYING UP WITH 69 Inf. Bde.
    Aug 9th
    The remainder of RHG joined the Regt. at POSTY in the morning and the Inf.Bde. attack went in the morning Inf. being carried on the backs of tanks. LE PLESSIS GRIMOULT was taken and RHQ moved down SOUTH of this town with HQ 69 Bde where for a time they were shelled and mortared, Sergt.Porter being concussed. "C" sqn. still with 43 Div. did very well, a large number of prisoners being taken. unfortunately Major T.M. Bell who had had command of the Squadron since August 1941 was killed by a shell when on a dismounted recce with the Inf.Coy. comd. The loss of Major T.M.Bell was a great blow. "A" & "B" sqns. harboured for the night to the rear of their Inf.Bns,
    Aug 10th
    The commanding officer issued orders in the afternoon. our attachment to the 69 Bde is finished and the Regt. now come under cound. of 213 Bde. with "A" sqn. with Devons, "B" with Dorsets and "C" with Hants. ("C" Sqn. having returned to the Regt. in the early morning). Intention was to advance SOUTH and capture ST.PIERRE LA VIELLE on the high ground to the SOUTH The Operation commenced at 0830 hrs. 11 August. The day was spent as far as possible resting and maintaining. Some shells landed in "C" Sqn. area in the evening killing Tpr.Walters of HQ and injuring 6 others of HQ and "C" Sqn.
    Aug 11th
    Attack started as scheduled RHQ now being with 231 Bde. (the other side of the road from 69 Inf.Bde). By 0900 hrs. the Inf. were nearing their first objective which was ST.PIERRE LA VIELLE and by 1100 hrs. the village was entered by both the Devons and the Hants. "A" with the Devons knocked out an A/Tk. gun and took 18 prisoners of war. The ground on the right was difficult and "C" Sqn. could not get on but they were ordered to push through and did a flanker round the village, two tanks getting ditched. "C" Sqn. eventually moved EAST on to the road and went into the village by that way Pt.229 dominating feature to the WEST of the village was still occupied by the Bosche who had a S.P. gun there. "A" and "C" Sqns. harboured in the afternoon and the RSM had a hard time getting supplies to them in the dark and everyone was extremely tired after a hard day. "B" Sqn. did not come in
    Aug 12th
    "A" moved out again and joined the Devons on the left "B" Sqn. remaining with the Dorsets, "C" Sqn. not operating during the morning, but remaining in fire position on the right, The Inf. pushed on to the next feature fairly quickly, but "B" Sqn. were unable to get on it as whenever they came to the reverse slope they were fired on by S.P. from pt.229. "B" Sqn. had anextremely sticky day and had one tank brewed up when coming out in the evening, another one was knocked out and Lieut.M.A.Norman who had been regularly in command of his Troop since D-Day was wounded by his own phosphorous smoke grenade which went off in his tank. All three Sqns. came back to harbour in the evening to Area SOUTH of LE PLESSIS GRIMOULT.
    Aug 13th
    The Commanding officer held a Squadron Leaders' conference in the morning on the subject of re-inforcements, and the rest of the day until the evening was spent in maintenance. In the evening the Regt. withdrew to go back for a rest in the area of ROBIN (WEST of AUNAY SUR ODON) The rest of the Bde. also came back to this area. A warning order received for parade to-morrow for visit by Lt.Gen, B.G.HORROCKS C.B., D.S.O., M.C. commander 30 corps.
    Aug 14th
    All available personnel were trasported over to 13/18 H in the afternoon when the Corps Commander Lt.Gen.B.G. HORROCKS spoke to all ranks about the course of the war and future operations. Many of us remembered him as G.O.C. 9 Armd. Div. when we were in that formation in 1941. Baths and ENSA entertainment were laid on for 13th, 14th and 15th August and 30 Corps WelfareOfficer visited us to see that during our period of rest all possible welfare arrangements were made. The Regiment remained resting until 17th August when warning order issued for big advance SOUTH and then EAST once agáin with 69 Inf.Bde. Information was that 19th U.S.Corp on our right, ourselves and 30 Corps centre, 12 Corp on left. 8 Armd.Bde were under Comd. 50 Div. and were preceded by 11 Armd.Div. along our route. Our route was to be AUNAY-SUR-ODON- ATHIS - PUTANGES - ARGENTAN - GACE - LAIGLE - BRETEUIL. In the afternoon the Regiment moved to concentration area of the 69 Inf. Bde. at ROUCAMPS on MT. PINCON passing through the uttely uninhabitable town of AUNAY-SUR-ODON en route.
    Aug 17th
    2100 Thee commanding officer gave out orders. our move would be a "Peace" one, Recce parties preceding our advance. Little was known about the enemy who was going back pretty fast except that a very large number of them were trapped in the FALAISE pocket. We would be passing SOUTH of this pocket. 50 Div. were to pass through 43 Div in the FLERS area and then move two up EAST. "B" Sqn. were to be leading Sqn.
    Aug 18th
    Move from ROUCAMPS commenced 0800 hrs. 61 Recce leading followed by harbour parties, A/A Regt. and then ourselves with the rest of 69 Bde. following and a Troop of flails under our comd. right at the rear. Our harbour area was reached about mid-day, a pleasant ground near ROYFLEURE. In the evening orders issued for a short move of only 6 miles taking us to the SOUTH of ROYFLEURE.
    Aug 19th
    Move completed by 1000 hrs. Afternoon spent in recreation,Squadron Leaders conference held in the evening. No operation orders yet received for to-morrow.
    Aug 20th
    0700. Orders received for quick move, but only for a distance of 10 miles. The Regiment moved out at 1000 hrs. preceded again by recce patties, and we arrived at MENIL GONDOUIN at mid-day. In the evening orders from 69 Bde. to push on further. This move was completed in the dark, the Regiment harbouring at NAUX de BARDUAD (2612),whe re it was extremely wet and most people got clothes and bedding wet.
    Aug 21st
    The Regiment remained in same location. orders issued in the evening, and once again Recce parties to go on ahead. We would continue our advance with 69 Inf.Bde. going via ARGENTAN -EXMES and GACE (which we might have to clear up).
    Aug 22nd
    Regiment moved out in the morning "A" Sqn. leading 69 Inf.Bde. RHQ set up at EXMES in the evening. Order were given out for further advance tommorrow.
    Aug 23rd
    The Regiment moved out at 0815 hrs. By 1015 hrs. "A" Sqn. were within 2 miles of Rugles. "A" Sqn. entered RUGLES in the Aug 24th afternoon and had a great reception from the inhabitants who sai d the Bosche had pulled out only a few hours before in or on any form of transport he could get hold of. Bridge over a stream here had been partially damaged by the Hun and the local inhabitants set to with all hands to make it usable.
    Aug 24th
    Orders for the day were that the Regiment will move to concentration area the other side of RUGLES preceded by harbour party and this move was completed fairly early, and we set up in an orchard East of RUGLES. No further move for us that day. The Brigadier called in the afternoon and spoke to Squadron Leaders and told us that 50 Div. with 8 Armd.Bde. less ourselves were being called upon to relieve another formation. We ourselves would be going to 214 Bde (43 Div.) making for VERNON to obtain a crossing over the SEINE there. Orders received for move to 214 Bde late at night.
    Aug 25th
    The Adjutant went back some 30 miles and collected the orders for move from 214 Bde. The Regiment moved out at 1300 hrs. "C" Sqn. leading with their Inf.Bn. A long march - no enemy were met and every village turned out to greet us with cheers and flowers as we went by. The route was via BRETEUIL -DAMVILLE. The Regiment arrived in this harbour NE of BRETEUIL about 5 miles from VERNON
    Aug 26th
    No move to-day. The Regiment teed up ready to cross the SEINEwhen the bridge was completed. The Inf. crossed in assault boats. The 130 Bde. had a footing across the SEINE by mid-day crossing over the old bridge at VERNON which had been blown. The Regiment was prepared to cross the river that evening on rafts tank by tank, two tanks crossing per hour. on the other side guides from the Inf.Bns. were to meet us and take us to their Bns. areas.
    First tank of "A" Sqn. crossed at 0700 hrs.27th. on the raft, the first British tank to cross the SEINE. Crossings were continued through the day until the class 40 Bridge was completed by about 1500 hrs. RHQ then moved over by the bridge. The Commanding Officer remained at 214 Bde. in VERNON itself until the following morning It was learned 8 Armd. Bde. who were to have gone across some 40 miles to the SOUTH were coming up across our bridge. Bridgehead on the EAST bank of the SEINE was farly small and the Regiment harboured in close proximity to the BOSCHE. This evening the Regiment came under comd. 130 Bde.
    Aug 28th
    "C" Sqn. on the left with 5th Dorsets, ":"B" Sqn. on the right with D. C.L.I., "A" sqn. in the centre with 4th Dorsets commenced an attack at 0900 hrs. to extend SEINE Bridgehead in direction of TILLY. Ground was very close to start off with and fairly ste ep. However the attack progressed. By mid day they were on better ground; "C" Sqn. got on well until being held up by S.P. on the main road. Lieutenant O.L.Holmes "C" Sqn. was unfortunately killed when doing dismounted recce. He was a very valuable officer and Troop Leader. By 1700 hrs. the Inf. were on their objective, and "A" Sqn, pushing on quickly captured another village actually beyond the original objective. Information received that 8 Armd. Bde. would operate to-morrow as an Armoured Bde, and we would be rejoining them. In the late evening the Regiment left 130 Bde. and moved SOUTH to 8 Armd.Bde. area preparatory to big move tomorrow. The commanding officer held a conference in the late evening for Operation Supercharge No.2. Orders were briefly as follows:-
    Information:- Enemy 49th German Inf.Div. are on the NORTH. of us 18th G.A.F. Div. to the SOUTH. Our own Troops; on our extreme right U.S.A.Forces heading for RHEIMS, 11 Armd.Div. are on our left and the Inns of Court would be moving ahead on our routes.
    Intention: To force a crossing over the SOMME at AMIENS.
    Method: Bde. will move two up, 13/18 H.Gg. on the right, S.R.Y. on the left; ourselves less one Squadron moving in the main body. This operation was really to break out of the VERNON Bridgehead and once through the enemy crust drive on in pursuit to the SOMMET
    Aug 29th
    Heavy rain fell in the morning, and as 13/18 H. met some opposition in the area of GASNEY, the Regiment was not allowed on the road until late in the afternoon when we moved slowly through GASNEY to harbour area EAST of DONJUE. 13/18 H reached DONZIE having quite a battle en route, shooting up quite a lot of transport and getting a crossing over the river at DONJUE. O Gp. held at 2345 hrs. Intention for tomorrow - push on to GISHORS and bey-ond towards BEAUVAIS, "C" Squadron to lead with a company of the 60th under Comd. and a Troop of Flails.
    Aug 30th
    moved out from Harbour 0630 hrs. and continued the advance. "C" Sqn. entered GISORS. Bridge was intact as we came into the town where there were still Enemy snipers. The Hun blew up a train which was in the station. After GISORS we pushed on to LA LONDALE, and by 1340 hrs. rad covered 34 miles.
    1400. After plain motoring from GISORS "C" Sqn. were held up 5 miles w. of BEAUVAIS by a burning panther tank and they destroyed a Staff car which was coming up to the panther with supplies, On the outskirts of BEAUVAIS an A/Tk gun was met and "C" Sqn. knocked it out and by 1630 hrs. were in BEAUVAIS after shooting up the BOSCHE in the streets and brewing up a King Tiger in the centre of the town. In the engagement at BEAUVAIS Major JAMES Coy. Comd. of the 12 K.R.R.C. was killed. Meanwhile 13/18 H. were coming up in the direction of BEAUVAIS on the route to the right of ours and met some opposition, and some of the german transport retiring before the 13/18 H. Were shot up by "A" Squadron who took up position SOUTH of the town covering the roads. The Regiment had a triumphal passage through this cathedral town of BEAUVAIS and harboured some 3 miles to the EAST all night in Bde laager.
    Aug 31st
    Remained in harbour area 1700 hrs. when RECCE parties were sent off followed by the Regiment who moved in Bde. column to another harbour area SOUTH of AMIENS.
     
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  11. Ramiles

    Ramiles Researching 9th Lancers, 24th L and SRY

    I was glancing through the above, in reference to the date of arrival for the Recce Troop (Stuart tanks) in Normandy.

    I note a number of Recce references in the 4th7thRDG War Diary for June. Rather further though - with specific references to the 4th7thRDG's Recce Troop...

    June 1-2
    Regt concentrated - all D Day vehicles at HURSLEY in C.13 CMP (Marshalling Area). D+2 to D+6 (ie A.A. & Recce Troop, A.2 Ech and Q.M. at C.22 at TOOTHILL, remainder at LARKHILL (Bustard Camp).

    Which suggests D+2 to D+6.

    There is reference in...

    June 7th
    ST LEGER
    Early stand to at 0430 hrs. Move further South through CREULLY on to BRECY with 'A' Sqn leading. 69 InfBde were in front and the Regt met in position in the afternoon. 'C' Sqn carried out a recce of the ST LEGER feature and South to the Rly and saw no enemy except two 88 mm which knocked out two tanks, as a result of which Cpl Jones and his crew were wounded and Lieut.Wide evacuated his tank with the turret crew after engaging the 88mm After he was hit he and his turret crew got out and managed to return to the Sqn. The Regt harboured at BRECY getting in in good time. An unfortunate accident occurred in the harbour when Lieut.R.D.Hancock (RHQ Tank Troop Ldr) was killed and the Signals Offr badly wounded by one of our own tank Brownings.

    To "a recce", but evidently not by the Recce troop.

    Unfortunately I could find relatively little about the 4th7thRDG recce troop. Most of what there is relates to modern 4th7thRDG RDG Recce troop activities.

    I can summarise a few points I am wondering about at the moment ;-) but some of them many be fairly trivial to work out, others may be intractable.

    1) I think, currently that the 4th7thRDG Stuart's were perhaps turretless, evidence even of what the 4th7thRDG's Stuarts looked like seems hard to track down. There are a few references to some T numbers but unfortunately not as yet that I have seen associated with what these looked like.

    2) The 24th Lancers recce landed 6th & 7th *. The SRY recce troop** led by Captain Patrick McCraith arrived at Point 103 on the night of Saturday 10th June and joined the SRY Regiment at first light on Sunday 11th June. Perhaps the 4th7thRDG recce arrived around the 9th/10th similarly?

    * Nb the 24th Lancers kept the turrets on their Stuart tanks, although the troop leader Lt. David Voller removed the turret on his and fitted it with Brownings in order to see better.

    ** Possibly there was a mix of turreted and unturreted in the SRY. Some reports, I think, said that they landed with turretless Stuarts, but there seem to be numbers of turreted Stuarts seen with the SRY later in the campaign.

    Edit : There is a decades old discussion here...
    British Armoured Regiment's Recce Component - Axis History Forum
    Started back in 2004.
     
    Last edited: Jan 11, 2022
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  12. Ramiles

    Ramiles Researching 9th Lancers, 24th L and SRY

    Oral History - RDG Museum

    Downloadable audio. The first (audio) has the 4th7thRDG recce troop Stuarts landing after D-Day and joining their Regiment later on Point 103, so for the 4th7thRDG it seems to be similar to the situation with the SRY. I haven't listened to the second one yet but with "move up through battle area" in the description that sounds like a match.

    Mr Eric Johnston
    4/7RDG 1942-1947 interviewed at his home in Aberdeen by John Speers on 18 September 2013.
    Topics covered; Joining RAC;Bovington;training in 58 Trg Regt;chose 4/7RDG;Maj Gen Hobart;DD tanks training;training for D Day, Studland Bay;Normandy landings;to recce tp on Stuart tanks;regimental casualties D Day;Hill 103;tank knocked out by bazooka;5 Panthers knocked out;DLI casualties;Operation Epsom;Gen Horrocks;crossing river;POWs;Guards Armd Div, Arnhem;Seconded to US 2nd Airborne:Nijmegen;Largest artillery barrage;Geilenkirchen;hits land mine;night in monastery;new Stuart tank;on to Rhine;travel on autobahns;Bremen - Becks brewery;German surrender;Bremerhaven.

    Mr Stewart Osborn
    5 Innis DG 1942-1946 interviewed at his home in Gosport by Billy Walker on 24 May 2014.
    Topics covered: Introduction and career summary;training at Ludgershall and Barnard Castle;joining regiment;training;in recce tp;1943 moved to Northampton;Ex Spartan;incidents;at Kirkcudbright when informed of D Day;Norfolk;to Fareham Aug 44;ship to Normandy, pontoon onto beach;Stukas firing on beach;incidents;equipped with Stuarts;move up through battle area;bombed;Villers Bocage;ration packs from 1914-18 war;incidents;V2 sites; RAF Typhoons;Rhine;jaundice-hospitalised and evacuated;back to regt at DP camp at Brunsbuttel near Kiel Canal;incidents;demob 1946.
     

    Attached Files:

    Chris WIlletts likes this.
  13. I don't think any of the recce troops in the Day armoured brigades had any turretless Stuart. These came later in the campaign. The Fighting Strength return as at 6 Jun 44 posted by Ramiles above does specify 11 "STUART 37-mm" in each of the three regiments in 8 Armd Bde.
     
  14. Ramiles

    Ramiles Researching 9th Lancers, 24th L and SRY

    On p57 of NHL...

    IMG_20220112_093615.jpg

    In the IWM film "Newmarket entrains #3"...

    THE 8TH ARMOURED BRIGADE ENTRAINS AT NEWMARKET TO TRANSFER TO ITS PRE-INVASION ASSEMBLY AREA IN SOUTHERN ENGLAND (PART 3) [Allocated Title]

    ...at about 8m45s the Recce Troop of the 24th Lancers appears to be getting ready to depart...

    I think it is possible to carefully count their number. There is a tank with "Dorothy" writen on its side that helps one keep track of where one is in pictures - looking forwards and back. Possibly it is easier to count them whilst watching the film itself.

    FB_IMG_1641982228803.jpg
    FB_IMG_1641982234094.jpg

    Hopefully I am seeing it right, but I guess what I see is 10 or 11 regular Stuarts and at the back something a bit unusual, something else. Possibly it has a tarpaulin cover or associated roof. Certain aspects of its front look similar to that of the Stuart immediately before it. Unfortunately as it is right at the back and people are milling around, stepping intermittently in between it and the cameraman it is rather tricky to see things fully and then one gets mere glimpses etc.

    However - a collage is here...

    20220112_095511.jpg

    Lots of caveats however - I can recount them and find myself flumoxed and coming up with 12 if one also includes whatever is at the end. Unfortunately it doesn't seem to say in NHL when or where precisely Lt.Voller's Stuart was modified and if it were in April'44 - then this film which was made right at the start of April could well be before that occurred...
     
    Last edited: Jan 12, 2022
    CL1 likes this.
  15. Thanks for the except from NHL. One learns something every day :D

    I also count 11 turreted Stuarts, so the modification must have taken place later. All the tanks in this film look like they have only just been received.
     
  16. G Thornett

    G Thornett Member

     
  17. G Thornett

    G Thornett Member

    I am preparing a biography for Lieutenant Ronald Sheehan for our village WW2 Exhibition. He was the son of the village doctor and served in the 4/7 DG, he was 20 when he died on the 30/31 March 1945 and is buried at Jonkerbos CWG. Unfortunately the War Diaries are only accessible at the NA so I was wondering if anyone has copies, as an officer his arrival in the 4/7 would probably be recorded as would be his death. Any info gratefully received.
     
  18. stolpi

    stolpi Well-Known Member

    I have the War Diary of March 1945. If you sent me a PM with your email address I will forward them to you.

    Sheehan is mentioned in the Regimental History of the 4/7 Dragoons. He was killed near Sinderen in Holland after the break-out of the Rhine Bridgehead at Rees. His recce tank (Honey) got ditched and the four crew members killed or captured.
     
    Last edited: Feb 10, 2022
  19. G Thornett

    G Thornett Member

    Thats great, thanks for your very quick response. Sorry to be a bit dim but how do I send you a PM?

    Regards,

    Graham
     
    stolpi likes this.
  20. stolpi

    stolpi Well-Known Member

    Graham, just click on my avatar and then hit 'start a conversation'
     

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