Hi Does anyone have WD for 5th Wiltshires, specifically for June 44 when they were Normandy? I have 3IG taking over their positions on the 28th. I would be most interested in is if there are any co-ordinates noted for their positions, especially their H.Q. Thanks, D
Will check tomorrow when I home not sure I think only busSeptember if not will let you know. very busy at the moment with work for EOD reports, have spent 2 day looking air photographs in the archives
I have a transcribed copy from the Rifles Museum which does not have an entry for the 28th June, in fact it's quite sparse for that period. However it does have the following; 26/06/1944- Bn relieves R Scots in defensive position at La Gaule The next entry mentions an attack that the Battalion carried out in the Mouen and Baron area on the 29th, unfortunately it does not give their start line. I hope this is of some help. Nick
Thanks very much Nick for checking. Fraid this only confirms that they were indeed there, not where exactly... had been hoping their WD would be a little more helpful than the IG one, which wouldn't take a lot of beating either. You can fill in the gap then with the 3IG entry: 28 June 44 Area La Gaule The Bn moved up today to take over the position held by 5 Wilts. This is very much the nature of a reserve pivot for the advance of 8 Corps across the R. ODON. The idea of this move is to give the Bn experience of being shelled and of life in the forward areas. Philip, Lucky man! Some more notices will be winging their way to you shortly so you will have more to do. D
I transcribed the diary of the 1st Wilts. They can be helpful, but if you need in depth stuff you want a more personal diary kept by higher officers. I shall have a looksee at the Museum for you.
I transcribed the diary of the 1st Wilts. They can be helpful, but if you need in depth stuff you want a more personal diary kept by higher officers. I shall have a looksee at the Museum for you. Thanks for this offer; really would appreciate anything that would help with locations. D
This may be of interest to those with 5th Wiltshires as a focus: From The City, From The Plough by Alexander Baron is a novelised account of their experience.
