I’m doing some research on behalf of my brother in law. His uncle was a tank commander in 23rd Hussars. He received a commendation for what seems to be an action at Erica in Holland. The problem is, I don’t think the 23rd was anywhere near that location. The unit history is sadly inaccessible in Kew. I’ve ordered the book about the 23rd that was published in 1946 (fortunately available as a reprint). I’ve spent all day executing every search I can but can find no explanation. Any thoughts or advice gratefully received. Ian
Some basic info on this site, his name is listed in this thread 24th Lancers Regimental Nominal Roll and Postings August 1944 On the first page of the link, it shows his name on transfer to the 23 Hussars 24th Lancers Regimental Nominal Roll and Postings August 1944
He was, prior to his transfer to the 23rd Hussars apparently in "C" Squadron of the 24th Lancers - in the (just prior to D-day) 24th Lancers roll... The L.A. can just about be made out, and the army number matches. And see: 24th Lancers - "C" Squadron The 24th Lancers Regimental history does include some info on awards given to ex-24th Lancers serving with other Regiments after the 24th Lancers was disbanded however Sgt. L.A. Austin is not amongst them. All the best, Rm National Archive link: Recommendation for Award for Austin, Lloyd Albert Rank: Serjeant Service No:... | The National Archives Edit: Order of Orange-Nassau - Wikipedia.
Looking at a couple of books on 11th Armd Div I have I see that in November '44 they were near America, NL. The author of that recommendation might have got confused nearly a year later .
Sorry...have had a very bad bout of Covid Delta several months ago and still in recovery. I bought a couple of books (at least one was identified by Ramiles (if memory serves) earlier in this thread and found a good account of the action. I’ll post some details when I’ve got my desk back in order.
Oddly I noticed Ian and I had previously discussed this and... https://www.774fieldartillerybattalion.com/maps Which (big red arrow) at base, also points out "Erica" - the Hoeve bit, I think, just means farm. Googling it doesn't "help" much, as it is also a name I think that you can oriente it with the above map where "Amerika" is written, by reference to Veulen, that appears on both maps.
The War Diary gives a slightly different account: November 21st "B" Squadron patrol forward to St Helena Hoeve, 7720, and are halted by mines, A/Tank fire and appalling "Going". 4 - Other Ranks killed in action and 3 - wounded. 2 - Sherman Vs destroyed by enemy action. Withdraw at night. November 23rd "B" Squadron forward to destroy enemy at St Helena Hoeve and build bridge at 771202. Enemy withdrew during the night. Spend the day on recovery in filthy weather.
