Any info about Lt Robin Howard X-company

Hello there, it looks a great forum here.

I was wondering if anyone might have anything on my (now deceased) uncle Lt Robin Howard , X-company Scots Guards. He was severely wounded (legs blown off) in I think 1945 , probably at a place called Hassum according to the link below.

All I've been able to google is this interesting personal history from someone in his platoon:

BBC - WW2 People's War - A Bullet to the Chest

Heres another X-coy account:
BBC - WW2 People's War - The Diary, Normandy 1944

None of the family know any more than me and as I live outside UK I was wondering if someone may have a regimental or X-company history before I contact the Scots Guards themselves.

X-company was attached to the Irish and then Welsh guards.

Thanks for any help and best wishes

 

The Place : About The Place : Robin Howard

 

Yes thats him, lost his legs above the knees so he starts a dance company! I was just wondering about his unit's war diary if anyone has access to it, and the circumstances of his wound, the fine account above from Private Griffiths makes it seem a little dubious but it may have been just bad luck!

 

Diane (dbf) on here is the most knowledgeable Guardee historian I have come across. I think looking at the posting times she was up into the wee hours. I am sure she will reply later. The Scots Guards Association site also has copies of 'auld magazines' and other history, The Regimental HQ, usually helpful but busy.



Scots Guards

 

Hello and welcome to the forum.
There is a Regimental History: The Scots Guards 1919 - 1955, Captain the Hon. David Erskine. Naval and Military Press offer a p/b reprint, and there are a few original copies up for sale on second-hand book sites such as abebooks. Get this first and see if it is sufficient to your needs. There is a mention of the wounding of your uncle and his soldier servant Guardsman Walker on page 415 which I will add later if you do not already have this. (Confirms Hassum, Feb 17th, while 1WG & X Coy were 'on loan' to 51st Highland Division)

As for war diaries, this is much more problematic. X Coy as you know started their Normandy campaign attached to 3rd Battalion Irish Guards, so their diary covers the period up until Aug 44. I have the war diary for this period and can direct you to the relevant posts later. Their History mentions X Coy: History of the Irish Guards in the Second World War, Major D.J.L. FitzGerald, M.C.

Thereafter they were attached to 1st Bn Welsh Guards. Sorry I can't help you there as regards War diary, but their history (not as good as the above) is Welsh Guards at War, Major L.F. Ellis, C.V.O., C.B.E., D.S.O., M.C.

Has anyone in the family applied for a copy of his service records?
Instructions on post 2 here: http://www.ww2talk.com/forum/brigade-guards/37127-researching-guardsmen-foot-guards.html

Do you have any photos of him from that time, which you would care to share here?

As for RHQ Wills is of course right, they are busy, but it'd be worth asking them if there are any personal accounts in their regimental archives for X Company.... you never know. Imperial War Museum in London also might have some information, diaries and accounts have been deposited there, so if you wish to find out more, that would also be a route worth investigating. Their contact details: Contact the Branches of the Imperial War Museum

 

Thanks for the help much appreciated.

Would you mind scanning page 415 of the SG history? I may look for a copy later from where you suggested, so I can read the whole post D-Day campaign. Ive found your 3rd battalion Irish Guards diary link and will keep an eye on it as you get time to update it.
When Dad joined in 1948 for his national service he reckons he heard from contemporaries of my uncle that he was covering Gdsm Walker (I didnt know his name before now) from the mortar (a direct hit as it happened) but who knows.
I managed to find a family website for Gdsm Griffiths (the excellent BBC account I linked) but he sadly died a couple of years ago and I havent heard back from the website inquiry.

Noone in the family including my Dad knows any more than I've posted, they didn't mention the war to family and noone asked, a common situation I gather. His father (my grandad) was also severely wounded in WW1 and like many in both wars they just liked to put it behind them, but its interesting to read those who can talk about it like here and some of my Dads old farming mates I remember from here in NZ. I have no military background myself so this is all new to me, I may get some terminology wrong (I noticed I'd said private instead of guardsman) but will do my best.
All Dad knows is that my uncle Rob was in x-company which was infantry seconded to Irish or Welsh Guards (have clarified which), and the only information I have found is the BBC personal accounts above. No wartime photos as far as I know apart from a googled one of the company commander and CSM.

My uncle was tall at 6'5 so maybe thats why he was left as infantry with X-coy instead of squashed into tanks like the rest of the regiment, or maybe it was random, or maybe he was thought a better infantryman than tanker, no idea!

I joined a couple of years ago meaning to ask if there was anything on record about x-coy or my uncle but my account verification didnt work and I forgot until now. Great site though.

 

The Scots Guards, Erskine, pages 412 - 413

GERMANY: 1945 - SECOND BATTALION
(d) Feb 8
The early stages of Veritable made little call on the Guards Armoured Division, which at the beginning of the offensive on 8th February was in Corps reserve. On that day the move from Hougaerde began, and that evening, after many detours owing to damaged roads by way of Tirlemont, St. Trond, Herck la Ville, Hasselt, Beeringen, Diest, Gheel, and Turnhout, the Second Battalion crossed the Dutch frontier and entering Tilburg, where everyone except Left Flank, who remained in the town, was billeted in a large Trappist monastery. This, a gaunt and dank building, was to be the battalion's home for eleven days while Veritable was slowed down in and around the Reichswald Forest by the German parachute battalions, heavily reinforced by mud. It was an unsatisfactory life, for little of either training or recreation can be done when notice to move fluctuates continually between one hour and eight. V.1s passed over the Monastery on their way to Antwerp, and the sky-trail of a V.2 on its way to London could occasionally be seen, and it soon became clear that there was no likelihood of employment until the road to and through Cleve became passable. It was possible to ease the strain on the Battalion's overladen transport by getting a few more vehicles, and to enjoy the amenities of Tilburg, principally oysters. On the 10th the Commanding Officer and a selection of other officers left for attachment to the 1st Welsh Guards to see combined armour and infantry in action, but returned on the 12th having seen nothing, as the ground was too wet for the armour to move.

X Company, which had been billeted in a nunnery south-east of Nijmegen, was the first to enter the line. On the 14th they went with the 1st Welsh on loan to the 51st Highland Division, into the area of Gennep, twelve miles to the south-east. There had been very heavy fighting in this area and as they passed through Gennep on their way to an assembly area beyond, the sight of so many dead Germans was reminiscent of Hechtel. Their immediate task was a relatively easy advance through thick pine woods on the southern fringe of the Reichswald. The Company remained dug-in in these newly won positions until the afternoon of February 16th when the Battalion was ordered to mount a night attack on the large village of Hassum, half-way down railway line to Goch. For this they were given a weightily barrage, bombing from the air and the "artificial moonlight" of searchlights, under the cover of which they attacked at three o'clock in the morning from positions in front of the Irish Guards at Hommersum. The Company, which was the right forward company in the attack, reached the remains of Hassum without difficulty, finding only a few prisoners and a number of dazed civilians in an area of complete devastation. As they consolidated in the dawn the enemy put down a heavy concentration of shells on the the village, one of which fell into a slit trench occupied by Lieutenant R.J.S. HOWARD and his servant, Guardsman WALKER; they were both badly wounded, and Lieutenant HOWARD later had both his legs amputated.

During the fighting the "Spectator Group" of the Second Battalion had again come up, but failed to see much armoured action. Their infantry hosts "bore with them admirably, but at times it must have been disquieting to have a pack of eager faces breathing down their necks". They had, on the whole, an exciting trip, "for the new members useful and instructive, but for the old an unpleasant reminder", but suffered no worse damage than a piece of shell through the petrol tank of the Commanding Officer's scout car and numerous shrapnel holes in his valise.

 

The Welsh Guards, Ellis, pages 267 -268

THE RHINELAND BATTLE
On that afternoon the 1st Battalion were ordered to make a night attack on Hassum, a large village on the road to Goch. They were to have the help of a considerable barrage, searchlights were to provide "artificial moonlight" and aeroplanes were to bomb the place first. They were still in the position they had captured on the 14th and as they left the wood the enemy shorted shelling and two were killed and four wounded. They dug in in front of Hommersum (now held by the Irish Guards) and started forward again at three o'clock in the morning. Everything went well. The "moonlight" enabled them to move quickly, wireless communication worked admirably, the barrage was most effective, and they reached their objective without a casualty. Doubtless the official "Air Notes" were not far wrong when they reported that after eighteen tons of bombs had been dropped there and the artillery programme had been carried out "the enemy was reduced to negligible strength and, choosing discretion rather than valour, left the remains of Hassum to the Welsh Guards." Certainly Hassum, when they got there, was in utter devastation, and only a few prisoners and a number of civilians emerged from the ruins. But as they consolidated the enemy put down heavy shell fire and Lieutenant R.J.S. HOWARD of "X" Company was wounded.

 

Thanks for that, Id saw you scanned some other stuff and I didnt mean to put you to that trouble for retyping but much appreciated. I just noticed your Grandfather (or father?) was in the 3rd Irish Guards so they served alongside each other pretty much, small world!
Ill follow up as suggested at the RHQ and Imperial War Museum in case they have any digitised personal accounts.

 

Hi, was no bother at all, quicker than scanning.

Yes Dad was in the 3rd Bn, he was at Hommersum, mentioned in the above accounts. His Coy commander was killed there on 21st February. In fact Dad's company was suspended after that particular "mopping up" operation. He's never talked much about that.

He doesn't recall much about X Coy either. The coys in the bn didn't tend to mix. if he knew someone in another Coy, it was from earlier training, or from later before demob.

X Coy officers were recommended for gallantry awards by JOE Vandeleur even though they were only with them for a small part of the NWE Campaign. X Coy are mentioned in the account of Sourdeval - another decimation like Hommersum - they were held in reserve as was my father's No. 1 Coy, while the other 2 coys went into the attack. If I remember correctly at least one, if not 2 Scots Guards officers went out later and managed to bring back some men when it went badly wrong.

 

3IG War Diary:

1944 June Tuesday 6
EASTBOURNE
Today at last comes the news that we have waited for, for so long - the Second Front has been opened. From now on we are on our toes to move, but as yet no orders have been received.

1944 June Thursday 8
EASTBOURNE
Today the Advance Party for going overseas was called to its concentration area at Div HQ. It is presumed that it will leave in a day or two, but this order may be much in anticipation of the move order yet to come. Lt. J.N. FINDLAY was in charge of the party.

1944 June Thursday 15
EASTBOURNE
The past ten days have been spent in packing, loading and carrying out final preparations to go overseas. No serious training has been possible. Today the orders for the move were received. The Bn is moving tomorrow in two portions; the vehicle party, under comd Lt. Col. J.O.E. VANDELEUR, proceed through Marshalling Area T to embark at TILBURY, while the marching party under Major D.H. FITZGERALD, proceeds through Marshalling Area C to embark at SOUTHAMPTION.

1944 June Friday 16
EASTBOURNE
Both parties left for their respective Marshalling Areas.

1944 June Monday 19
LONDON DOCKS
The vehicle party today embarked on the Liberty ship “SAMPHILL”. During their stay in the Marshalling Camp near WANSTEAD they had several unpleasant experiences from the German “pilot less aircraft”. They were allowed to go into LONDON one evening, which somewhat surprised everyone.

1944 June Tuesday 20
SOUTHAMPTON
The marching party embarked today on the ex Union Castle liner “LLANGIBBY CASTLE”. The Marshalling Camp in the area of BITTERNE was extremely well run and very comfortable under the circumstances. The party were allowed to walk out every evening. The ship put to sea but anchored off BEMBRIDGE.

1944 June Friday 23
LONDON DOCKS
After being delayed for two days by bad weather, the ship put to sea in the early hours of the morning, and the marching party woke to find the shores of NORMANDY just coming over the horizon. It was a wonderful sight to see the shipping lying off the beaches. We were quickly transferred from our liner to L.C.T. and taken ashore. We got our feet wet somewhat to everyone’s annoyance. A tiring march took us to our assembly area in the fields just NORTH of CREULLY where we spent the night. The ship today set sail for NORMANDY, but since it had the longer journey to do it did not get further than DOVER.

1944 June Saturday 24
NORMANDY
The marching party was today transported by T.C.L. to its concentration area. This was in some fields some 3 kilometres out of BAYEUX on the main BAYEUX - ST. LO road. The Advance Party, much to everyone’s amusement, had not yet arrived. The vehicle party today reached the shores of FRANCE, but no disembarkation took place

1944 June Sunday 25
Conc. Area near BAYEUX
The Advance Party arrived this morning to be greeted with ridicule. The vehicle party also began to arrive during the afternoon.

1944 June Tuesday 27
BERMERES BOCAGE
Lt. Col. J.O.E. VANDELEUR, Major D.H. FITZGERALD and Lt. R.W. REFORD today went up to HQ of a Bde which is holding a sector of the front, to get information as to any training points which should be carefully followed. This was in the sector held by 50 Div.

1944 June Wednesday 28
BERMERES BOCAGE
The Bn moved up today to take over the position held by 5TH WILTSHIRES. This is very much in 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.

1944 June Thursday 29
Area LA GAULE
The Bn suffered its first casualties today. Three men were wounded by shell or mortar fire.

1944 June Friday 30
Area LA GAULE
Three more men were wounded during the course of the day. Tonight, Lt. G. LLEWELLYN, SCOTS GUARDS, took out a recce patrol of 3 men to see if the bridge over the railway between VERSON and BRETTEVILLE-SUR-ODON (map ref on 1:50000 sheet 7F/1, 977665) was held. The patrol found 4 double sentries on the bridge and brought back the most useful information about the topography and the enemy positions.

 

3 IG War Diary:

1944 July Saturday 1
LA GAULE
One more casualty from mortar fire in X Coy, SCOTS GDS today. Lt. P.A. McCall (1 Coy) took out a patrol to ascertain if there were any enemy in the buildings at 976667. Despite occasional mortar fire they were able to reach their objective and found it to be held.

1944 July Sunday 2
LA GAULE
X Coy moved in the evening from their position by Bn HQ to La BYNDE 739672 to counter a German tank threat from CAPRIQUET Aerodrome. Lt. J.O. STANLEY-CLARKE (4 Coy) set off on a patrol to discover if the enemy held the buildings at 773670, but was unable to reach his objective owing to heavy shell fire.

1944 July Monday 3
LA GAULE
Four casualties in No. 1 Coy from mortar fire today.

1944 July Tuesday 4
LA GAULE
A dawn attack was put in by 3 Canadian Div on CARPIQUET, which was successful, though in the evening an enemy counter-attack drove them out of the Southern positions and the enemy reached the hangars about 800 yds West of X Coy. X Coy suffered three casualties from mortar fire, of whom one, Gdsm. JARDINE, later died of wounds, and there was one casualty from the same cause in No. 2 Coy.

1944 July Wednesday 5
LA GAULE
One casualty in X Coy and two in No. 1 Coy from enemy mortar fire today. A German patrol infiltrated into the position held by X Coy, SCOTS GDS, and there was a brief exchange of S.A. fire, after which they withdrew.

1944 July Thursday 6
LA GAULE
The Commanding Officer replaced Lt. THORPE’s platoon (forward platoon of X Coy) by Lt. E.R. UDAL’s platoon of 4 Coy in order that Lt. THORPE might do counter patrol work to prevent enemy infiltration during the night. However, nothing was seen of the enemy during a quiet day. No. 4 Coy move to the wood immediately North of LA MARE (2 Coy area).

1944 July Friday 7
LA GAULE
Another quiet day, in the evening the Bn were able to watch the bombing of CAEN by 460 Liberators, prior to the 1st CORPS attack planned for the following morning.

1944 July Saturday 8
LA GAULE
The 1st CORPS attack on CAEN started with a preliminary bombardment by arty and naval guns. The first objective was rapidly achieved and all goes well.

1944 July Sunday 9
LA GAULE
CAEN falls and we advance to the banks of the R. ORNE. A quiet day for the Bn.

1944 July Monday 10
LA GAULE
43 Div attack and capture the line ETERVILLE - MALTOT, with Div HQ in the Bn area.

1944 July Tuesday 11
LA GAULE
Bn moves back to Div concentration area at ST. MARTIN-LES-ENTREES to the East of BAYEUX. Lt. E.R. UDAL becomes Intelligence Officer vice Lt. R.W. REFORD.

1944 July Wednesday 12
-

1944 July Thursday 13
ST. MARTIN LES ENTREES
All Bn officers witness a demonstration by 1 (Armd) COLDM GDS on Infantry co-operation with tanks in close country, in anticipation of possible fighting in the Bocage area.

1944 July Friday 14
ST. MARTIN LES ENTREES
Bn exercise with 2 (Armd) I.G. - infantry co-operation with tanks. 2 Coy and two troops of Shermans.

1944 July Saturday 15
-

1944 July Saturday 16
The Div Commander addressed all officers and briefed them for the forthcoming operation in the CAGNY-VIMONT area.

1944 July Monday 17
ST. MARTIN LES ENTREES
The Bn was briefed for the forthcoming operation and the plan revealed that Gds Armd Div would follow behind 11 Armd Div in the advance, with 32 Gds Bde following 5 Gds Armd Bde. The 32 Gds Bde objective was to pivot in the area FRENOUVILLE 1162, prior to an attack by 2 Coy, 3. I.G. to secure the village of VIMONT 1461 during the afternoon of 19 Jul. “H” hour could not be fixed until late in the day owing to the importance of good weather for the large scale bombing programme which would precede the attack. The move was a complicated one, with tracked and wheeled vehicles moving on different routes. During the evening a message was received that the Bn would move as planned at 0200 hours tomorrow.

1944 July Tuesday 18
ST. MARTIN LES ENTREES
Finally the Bn debussed, immediately prior to which, Capt. I.D.R. GRANT (1 Coy Comd) was hit in the stomach by shell splinters, and died of wounds next day. Lt. P.A. McCALL took over temporary command of No. 1 Coy. The Bn formed a hedgehog position round La PRIEURE farm 114657 which was a blazing ruin, and were digging in when the Bde Commander arrived with orders to push on the FRENOUVILLE 1162 before dark. It was then 2130 hrs and by the time the Bn moved off towards its objective, which was thought to be free from enemy, darkness had fallen. The Rifle coys with No. 2 leading, moved across country by compass bearing, and the F Echelon was ordered to proceed by road. However, the devastation wreaked by the mornings bombing attack made progress almost impossible for even tracked vehicles, which were rapidly left behind by the marching troops as the Bn approached CAGNY. No. 2 Coy, which was well ahead, came under heavy machine gun fire from the outskirts of FRENOUVILLE, and after rushing a M.G. post, Major EARDLEY-WILMOT decided to hedgehog for the night just short of the town, as enemy appeared to be in some strength. Part of No. 1 Coy under Lt. P.A. McCALL, remained under Major EARDLEY-WILMOT, and the remainder, together with No 4 Coy, were withdrawn by the Commanding Officer to try a different route via the North to the objective. Accordingly the Commanding Officer, with No. 4, X and part of No. 1 Coys, tried the route to the North, but, coming under heavy fire from the West, were unable to push on and dug in for the night to the North of CAGNY, 1164. The A Tk guns and supporting arms, being unable to make contact with the Bn returned to F Ech at La PRIEURE, and waited till daylight, when the I.O. (Lt. E.R. UDAL) set off in a Carrier to find the Bn’s positions. This was discovered without much difficulty, and the supporting arms were brought up to the Bn area, which was luckily close to the 2nd (Armd) Bn, who had provided the Rifele Coys with protection during the night. Major EARDLEY-WILMOT came back to contact the Bn, and later withdrew his Coy, which had put up a magnificent performance, to join the rest of the Bn. During the night at F Ech, there had been almost constant shell-fire, and at about dawn, the Adjt (Capt. H.C. NEILSON) was wounded, and two men beside him were killed. Lt. J.N. FINDLAY became Adjt in his place.

1944 July Wednesday
19 CAGNY
No 4 Coy sent a patrol of one L/Cpl and three gdsm, to a belt of trees immediately on their front. The patrol was successful and an identification of 125 PGR was obtained from a paybook taken from a dead German. The patrol was fired on as it attempted to return, and one gdsm was killed. Lt. Lord FITZMAURICE (4 Coy) took out a further patrol to the same area as the earlier one and reported no enemy. 1 WG moved to attack the village of Le POIRIER 0963, from X Coy (SG) and returned at 0300 hrs with very useful infm of enemy dispositions. Sjt. McCABE and one gdsm (4 Coy) discovered that the enemy still held the orchard North of FRENOUVILLE 1162. The total sustained during the day were: Capt. H.C. NEILSON (wounded), seven ORs killed and 25 ORs wounded, some of which occurred during the night 18/19th.

1944 July Thursday 20
CAGNY
5 COLDM GDS moved to attack and capture the village of FRENOUVILLE 1162 and by 1100 hrs this was reported to be completely successful and consolidated. The situation to the N.E. of our position appeared obscure with sporadic M.M.G. and Mortar fire from tanks and infantry on our front. Two snipers became casualties (one killed, one wounded) in front of X Coy. During the afternoon the weather completely changed - hot sunshine and blinding dust was changed to torrential rain and mud. Total casualties for the day were one O.R. killed and five ORs wounded. On the night of the 20/21st, an excellent patrol was taken out by Mr. HICKEY (1 Coy), which discovered the enemy to be holding orchards South of EMIEVILLE 1265. The information obtained by this patrol was remarkable and was especially praised by the Bde Comd.

1944 July Friday 21
CAGNY
Very heavy shell-fire on Bn area caused several casualties during the day. On the night of the 21/22nd patrols were taken out by Mr. KING-HARMAN (2 Coy) and Mr. DREWE (X Coy, SG), which reported that the enemy still held the orchards S.W. of EMIEVILLE. Total casualties for the day were five men wounded and two missing.

1944 July Saturday 22
CAGNY
Bn received orders to withdraw from their hedgehog position at CAGNY 1164, to concentrate in area South of R. ORNE. Withdrawal commenced at 2300 hours over roads made almost impassable by the recent rain. By 0400 hrs 23 Jul, most of the Bn had arrived in the new area. Casualties suffered from shell and mortar fire before the withdrawal were three ORs killed and three wounded.

1944 July Sunday 23
COLOMBELLES
Day of rest after withdrawal from the line. Bn is concentrated to the East of FAUBG DE VAUCELLES 0867.

1944 July Monday 24
COLOMBELLES
Orders issued by Bde Comd for probable operations in area of the woods to the West of SECQUEVILLE-la-CAMPANGE 1160. Bombs fell in the night in the Bn area and nine ORs were injured.

1944 July Tuesday 25
COLOMBELLES
Bn was ready to move forward to an exploitation role under command of 8 Cdn Corps in the operations which started this morning. However, the opposition was greater than expected, and we were not after all required to move. The Bn remained in its concentration area on two hours notice. Lt. P.A. McCALL was evacuated with hernia and Capt. D.G. KINGSFORD (Sp Coy) took over command of No. 1 Coy.

1944 July Wednesday 26
COLOMBELLES
The Canadian Corps attack, having been held and contained by the enemy, the Bn passed to four hours to move, and awaited developments.

1944 July Thursday - Saturday 27 – 29
FAUBG de VAUCELLES
During these three days the position was very uncertain and the Bn kept switching from 2 to 4 hours notice, until finally on the 29th orders were received that we were definitely not required for the CANADIAN CORPS operation and to be prepared to move from 0500 hrs the next day over to the AMERICAN sector where there was to be a switchover of 8 CORPS to take part in an advance through the BOCAGE country, with 11 ARMD DIV and 6 GDS TK BDE leading and GDS ARMD DIV in Corps reserve to be concentrated at ST. MARTIN-LES-ENTREES near BAYEUX and to be at 2 hours notice.

1944 July Sunday 30
The Bn moved in non-tactical order of march to the concentration area at ST. MARTIN-LES-ENTREES, arriving at 0900 hours. The Commanding Officer held a memorial service for the men who have fallen since we arrived in NORMANDY. Orders were unexpectedly received for the Bn to move in the G.A.D. advance to follow 11 ARMD DIV and 6 GDS TK BDE who were already in action on 8 CORPS sector. The Bn moved with 1 (ARMD) COLDM of 5GDS ARMD BDE under command.

1944 July Sunday - Monday 30/31
ST. MARTIN-LES-ENTREES (nr BAYEUX)
Left BAYEUX at 2330 hrs 30 Jul 44 and arrived LE TRONQUAY 7073 about 0200 hrs 31 Jul 44. The day was spent in resting.

1944 July Monday 31
The Bn moved from LE TRONQUAY to an area 3 miles NORTH of CAUMONT, arriving about 2100 hours. Orders were received to spend the night here at one hours notice to move.

 

3IG War Diary:

1944 August Tuesday 1
N of CAUMONT
Left this temporary concentration area and went by MT through CAUMONT to a point on the main road three miles SOUTH of CAUMONT.

1944 August Wednesday 2
N of CAUMONT
The Commanding Officer held an “O” Group when orders were given for the Bn to proceed on foot, with “F” Ech, and continue advance to ST. MARTIN des BESCASES 6750. No 2 Coy leading with tanks of 1 (Ardm) COLDM GDS in support. Further “O” Group held just before reaching ST. MARTIN. Fairly heavy shelling was experienced and L/Cpl. BARBER (X Coy) Jeep driver was killed and No. 2 Coy R/T truck damaged. Orders to attack high ground on either side of the main road 6846 -6746 were received. The Commanding Officer went forward with 2 and X Coy Comds, Bty Comd RA and Major R. BATT (Sqn Comd of 1 COLDM GDS tanks), to recce the Start Line. This was fixed at 673480. Attack went in about 1800 hrs with X Coy on the right and 2 Coy on left. Centre line was the main road and each coy had two troops of tanks in support. In the initial stages of the attack, considerable M.G. fire was met but it did not hold up the advance. In later stages 2 Coy came under Mortar fire and suffered four casualties. Objectives were reached without further incident, the enemy having withdrawn as the Bn approached. This was borne out by Lt. BOURKE (2 Coy) who located a PANTHER tank pulling out. The attack was watched from the high ground by the Commanding Officer - an unusual occurrence in this very enclosed country. During the consolidation of this position, X Coy was hampered by the friendliness of the local inhabitants - one elderly lady kissed each man of Lt. LLEWELYNN’S Platoon, and an old man provided cider for all. Patrols were then sent out - Lt. A.N. DREWE (X Coy) took one down to the river to the SSOUTH and met two German patrols on the way. He got shot at from all sides, and by both sides, but got valuable information. Contact was made with 1 MOT. GREN GDS who reported LE TOURNEUR held in some strength (incl. tanks) by the enemy. During this period, 1 and 4 Coys carried out an offensive sweep to the river due WEST (river unnamed) - a few prisoners were captured by otherwise no incidents. Casualties totalled for today were two ORs killed and 9 ORs wounded.

LE TOURNEUR
At approximately midnight 1/2 Aug, Lt. Col. FINDLAY (2 Armd IG) came to the Bn. Command Post with orders that two or three Bns were to attack and hold the bridge at 689453. It was obviously impossible for tanks to operate during the night, so the Commanding Officer ordered Major P.F.I. REID with 2 and X Coys to carry out this task. 0200 The attack was carried out successfully, no opposition being met, although there were many incidents of K.O.’d tanks having to be investigated, etc. Having reached their objective, X Coy sited their HQ in a convenient trench, subsequently discovered to be a German latrine. The remainder of the division passed through the Bn at about 0600 hrs. The morning started off quietly except for a few snipers being brought in - identified as 3/752 Gren R. of 326 Inf. Div. Patrols were sent out from the Coys and carrier pl. Majors STEWART-FOTHERINGHAM (X Coy) and EARDLEY-WILMOT (2 Coy) were relieved for rest by their 2nd in Commands. Seven ORs wounded were the total casualties for the day.

1944 August Thursday 3
LE TOURNEUR
Today we received orders to capture the village of MONTCHAMP - it was subsequently discovered that this was a strong enemy point and contrary to original intelligence. The armour meanwhile had passed SOUTHWARD through ST. CHARLES de PERCY. We had quite an exciting night advancing along the road between ST. CHARLES de PERCY and MONTCHAMP and the leading Coy, No 1, were soon held up by German Spandau posts about a kilometre to the EAST of ST. CHARLES. Well backed up by two troops of tanks (1 Armd COLDM GDS) and after 3 efforts, they overcame the opposition and a combat group composed of No. 4 Coy and a troop of tanks, passed through No 1 Coy to deepen the penetration by 300 metres. They succeeded with very slight losses. Another combat group (composed of X Coy and one troop of tks) then again attempted to penetrate 400 metres further EAST to gain the village of COURTEIL, but were held up by a strong enemy resistance. During the day’s fighting, Lt. HICKEY (1 Coy) was rather badly wounded and other casualties were nine ORs killed and 18 wounded.

1944 August Friday 4
COURTEIL
The Bn held a position astride the road just to the WEST of COURTEIL. All coys were subjected to fairly heavy shelling and the two forward coys exchanged S.A. fire with enemy who were dug in not more than 100 yds in front of them. At Stand-To this morning, Bn HQ was itself attacked by enemy approximately a platoon in strength. This attack was broken up by a section of the Carrier platoon and Capt. W.R.R.S. BRUCE with a captured Browning mounted on his carrier - the enemy suffered heavy casualties. Casualties suffered during the day were four ORs killed and 16 ORs wounded, and were mainly caused by shelling and Mortar fire.

1944 August Saturday 5
COURTEIL
Today we laid on a “full dress” fire plan. No 4 Coy gained COURTEIL. Then a combat group, consisting of X Coy, one troop of tanks of 2 Armd COLDM GDS, two 6-pr guns, two 17-pr guns, and two 3” Mortars (later reinforced by a platoon of No. 2 Coy) was pushed through COURTEIL to gain the village of MAISONCELLE, 600 metres S.E. They had a great fight, gained their objectives and although in immediate contact with at least 10 German tanks and a coy of infantry, held their positions for 48 hours, and, ably assisted by the two 17-prs, destroyed four MK 3 S.F. guns, one PANTHER tank, one lorry, and captured a Mk 3 S.F. gun intact. The knocked out lorry was from 2 (Armd) I.G. Two pls of No. 2 Coy (commanded by Capt. E.M. WOODS) and one troop of tanks (1 Armd COLDM GDS) with a section of carriers as escort, were ordered to the EAST of BEALIEU to support a bty of S.P. guns. They had some stiff fighting for 48 hours and Capt. WOODS, Major BATT (Sqn Comd of the COLDM GDS tks) were killed. No 1 Coy made a sweep SOUTH from Courteil, passing through No. 2 Coy and X Coys, searched some woods and returned to the area of Bn. HQ at COURTEIL. Total casualties for the day were three Offrs and one OR killed and three ORs wounded.

1944 August Saturday 6
COURTEIL
Positions gained on the 5th were held throughout the day, with X Coy and No.2 Groups in contact with the enemy, but we suffered no casualties.

1944 August Monday 7
MONTCHAMP
During the night 6/7th, excellent work was done by the Pioneer PL, commanded by Cap. D.E. COMPTON, in clearing MONTCHAMP of mines and booby traps. No. 1 Coy cleared the village while the Carrier Pl distinguished themselves on patrols at the entrances. The Bn was ordered to secure the area between MONTCHAMP and ESTRY for a gun area for 15 (S) Div. No 1 Coy proceeded through MONTCHAMP to PONT a L’ECRIVAIN. X Coy passed through No 1 Coy to the area of Les ECOUBLET. These Coys met no opposition, except road blocks which were booby trapped. No 1 Coy later moved up to the right of X Coy, and Bn HQ, Nos 2 and 4 Coys moved into the area of PONT a L’ECRIVAIN. The whole Bn area was subject to sporadic mortar fire, and also to several “overs” of S.A. fire, but fortunately there were only a few casualties.

1944 August Tuesday 8
SOUTH of MONTCHAMP
The Bn held its positions throughout today - there was again mortar fire and S.A. “overs” which killed three men and wounded seven others. In the morning, a Bn of K.OSB. and a Bn of R.S.F. put in a frontal attack on ESTRY through our positions, but this was only partially successful.

1944 August Wednesday 9
SOUTH of MONTCHAMP
During the morning the Bn was told to stand by ready to move to take over a new position at SOURDEVALLE [sic] 7033, at present held by a composite Bn of MONMOUTHS and NORFOLKS of 11 Armd Div. 1200 The Commanding Officer, accompanied by Coy Commanders, tank representative of 1 Armd COLDM GDS and Arty F.O.O. went to SOURDEVALLE to recce the new positions - a task made difficult owing to heavy shell fire and close range S.A. fire. This position was in the tip of a salient created by 11 Armd Div. The recce party did not return until 1900 hrs, and all through the day the whole Bn area had again been subjected to sporadic mortar fire and S.A. “overs” - casualties suffered being three ORs wounded. 2100 Eventually the Bn completed the hand-over to a Bn of ROYAL SCOTS, and commenced the move to SOURDEVALLE. The marching personnel embussed in T.C.Ls at MONTCHAMP - nobody was looking forward to the journey as any dust on the roads was bound to bring down a lot of shelling. 1 (Armd) COLDM GDS were to move into the new position just before dark, and the Bn after dark. We only took the minimum number of vehicles into the position as the previous unit had lost an enormous amount of transport by taking it right forward - this fact was only too evident when one saw the graveyard of brewed-up vehicles in the area of Bn HQ. Our transport was divided into three groups - the actual vehicles we needed with us, confined to Jeeps, Carriers, rear link vehicle and the C.O.’s Scout Car. Secondly, those vehicles necessary to maintain the Bn in battle, such as petrol, amn, signal stores and Int. stores, and lastly the remainder of the Bn vehicles, 3 tonners and 15 cwts and T.C.Ls. Those three echelons were known respectively as F, F2 and A.

1944 August Thursday 10
SOURDEVALLE
The Bn took over this new position without incident and the take-over was completed by 0200 hours. All through the day the whole Bn area was subjected to shelling and mortaring and during this time, Capt. D.G. KINGSFORD (No 1 Coy Comd) was killed by a shell splinter, Capt. D.E. COMPTON was wounded and 17 ORs wounded. In the early evening, the two forward Coys - No. 1 (now commanded by Lt. P. DOYLE) and No. 4, were attacked by what was thought to be a recce force in strength - this was easily repulsed and the attack petered out, but unfortunately no identifications were obtained, although we inflicted several casualties on the enemy, but it was impossible to go forward in the daylight to search bodies. This was attempted after dark by the Intelligence Section and several dead Germans were found in the standing corn immediately in front of Nos 1 and 4 Coys, but the search still did not reveal an identification so urgently required by higher formation. In the evening, orders were received that the Bn would attack the next day, and as a preliminary to this, a strong patrol from No 4 Coy, led by Lt. KINGAN, was sent to recce the bridge and river by 1a JARRIERRE immediately to the SOUTH of SOURDEVALLE. They discovered the bridge to be strongly held, but no identifications could be obtained, and it was impossible to get across the bridge to the houses on the other side.

1944 August Friday 11
SOURDEVALLE
Again this morning the forward coys were attacked by an enemy force - thought to be on recce - but were easily repulsed by S.A. fire. 0900 The Bn, supported by a sqn of tks of 1 (Armd) COLDM GDS and one Fd Bty carried out an attack to gain the line of the main VIRE-VASSY road SOUTH of SOURDEVALLE, being phased in with the remainder of the 32 Gds Bde directed on the village of CHENODELLE, and in concert with 1 MOT. GREN GDS and 2 (Armd) GREN GDS directed on the village of VIESSOIX. We were in the centre of a Div effort directed Southwards. The leading Coys, right - 2 Coy and left - 4 Coy, were supported by two troops of tanks, medium mortars and a Field Bty RA, came under intense fire on a convex slope running Southwards, as soon as they crossed the Start Line. The leading tks immediately suffered casualties from enemy A.Tk guns or dung in tanks SOUTH of their objective. The forward coys pushed on through root and cornfields, suffering very heavy casualties before they reached their objective at approximately 400 yds NORTH of their objectives. The enemy then crumpled heavily with arty and mortar fire on the forward slope of the hill down which the attack had been directed and at 1600 hours a contact patrol was sent forward to (a) locate the centres of enemy resistance, and (b) inform all possible survivors that they were to withdraw to the line of the F.D.Ls as soon as a smoke screen was laid to cover them. This contact patrol was led by Lt. A.N. DREWE of X Coy, who was himself wounded, one man of the patrol killed and another man wounded. 1630 The smoke screen was laid, duration 30 mins, and Lt. DREWE with stretcher bearers, again went forward into the smoke and did all he could in supervising evacuation of all possible wounded. Very heavy casualties were suffered by 2 and 4 Coys. Officers killed were Major A. EARLEY-WILMOT (2 Coy Comd), Lt. LORD FITZMAURICE (4 Coy) and Lt. P. BOURKE (2 Coy) and Major D.A. REID (4 Coy Comd), Lt. KINGAN (4 Coy) and Lt. RYDER (2 Coy) were all wounded. ORs suffered to the extent of 33 killed and 72 wounded. The men were splendid, advancing in spite of the severe opposition, and nothing further could be done to support them owing to the proximity of the opposing posts, and the fact that the bulk of the fire power had to be retained for the 32 GDS BDE attack on CHENODELLE. In the evening, the remnants of 2 and 4 Coys were successfully withdrawn to the reserve Coy area and their original positions were taken over by Nos 1 and X Coys. Nos 2 and 4 Coys were amalgamated into one coy, now known as No 2, under the command of Capt. HENDRY.

1944 August Saturday 12
SOURDEVALLE
An unfortunate accident during the night in X Coy position, when T mines were being fused, resulted in three men being killed and one wounded. A quiet day - patrols were sent out and were able to collect and bury the dead. Identifications of enemy on our front confirmed that we had been fighting elements of the combined 3 and 5 Para Divs and not 10 SS Pz Div “HOHENSTAUFEN” as had been expected.

1944 August Sunday 13
SOURDEVALLE
Orders were received for the Bn to move to the area of Le BUSQ a mile due WEST of ESTRY, and quite near the position we had held previously. The Commanding Officer spent most of the day receiving the new position. We were to be relieved at SOURDEVALLE by 2 HCRA supported by 2 (Armd) IG and their Commanding Officers spent most of the day in our Bn position recceing and taking over. 2100 The hand over was completed and the Bn left SOURDEVALLE - the move to Le BUSQ was completed without incident apart from an unsuccessful air attack.

1944 August Monday 14
LE BUSQ
This day was spent in resting, re-fitting and bathing, although the enemy were still less than one mile away. The Bn still consists of only three rifle Coys, but a Fd Sqn RE is under command in the role of reserve coy. Patrols during the night kept contact with flanking units and information was received that the nearest enemy locality - ESTRY was now clear.

1944 August Tuesday 15
LE BUSQ
The Bn was visited by Corps Commander, who saw all company commanders personally, and informed us that we were likely to remain concentrated in the present area for some days.

1944 August Wednesday 16
LE BUSQ
The Fd Sqn RE left the Bn, together with the supporting arms, and we returned under command 32 GDS BDE. Lts. R.C. TAYLOR and M. AIRD with ten ORs joined the Bn from the R.H.U.

1944 August Thursday 17
LE BUSQ
Major G.E. FISHER-ROWE arrived with the Bn, and took over the command of No 1 Coy.

1944 August Friday 18
LE BUSQ
-

1944 August Saturday 19
LE BUSQ
A short memorial service was held in honour of those killed in the recent actions, at which a list of their names was read out to the Bn. News reached us that Major A.R. EARDLEY-WILMOT had been awarded the M.C., for his outstanding leadership at CAGNY.

1944 August Sunday 20
LE BUSQ
-

1944 August 21
LE BUSQ
-

1944 August 22
LE BUSQ
-

1944 August 23
LE BUSQ
The Bn received orders to move to a concentration area at MONTILLY (SOUTH of CONDE-sur-NOIREAU) where it was thought likely we would remain about six days.

1944 August 24 - 27
-

1944 August 28
MONTILLY
This day, G.A.D. came under command of 30 CORPS for an armoured thrust across the R. SEINE.

1944 August 29
MONTILLY
The Bn left MONTILLY and after a very tiring journey reached Le COUDRAI 892367 (near LAIGLE) at 1430 hours. The Bn harboured the night and the Commanding Officer received orders for the crossing of the SEINE to a Div. Conc. Area, N. of VERNON.

1944 August 30
Le COUDRAI
The Bn left Le COUDRAI and crossed the SEINE without incident and at 1700 hours reached La QUEUE d’HAYE

1944 August 31
QUEUE d’HAYE
The Bn left the conc area at la QUEUE d’HAYE (N.E. of VERNON) and motored all day, covering a distance of 60 miles. We harboured at 21:00 hours near FROISSY. No. 2 Coy went into a farm where Germans had left only that morning.

 

A Soldier's Story, JOE Vandeleur














Sourdevalle

 

Thanks very much for that DBF, Ill print it off for Dad he will be very interested as will anyone else in the family that finds this.

 

Hi, can any one assist with info on what the Glasgow Highlanders were up to on the 14th February 1945 as part of Op "Veritable", my uncle Edward Stanley Tipping (18) was KIA on that day?