1st Battalion The Royal Ulster Rifles

116749

1/RUR

2 i/c

52nd
AA

Adj

ADS

Air

ALB

Amn

Arty

A/Tk
Att

Bde

Bdy

BHQ

Bty

Comdr

Comn

Coy

Dist

Div

Est

FDL

FFI

FOB

FOO

FUP

Fwd

Gren

HMG

i/c

Imm'ly

Incl

Inf

Instrs

Junc

LMG

MDS

Med

MMG

Mob

NAAFI

Offr

O Group

Opp

Oppn

Oxf & Bucks Lt Infy

Org

Pdr

Posn

Poss

RAMC

RAP

Recd

Reg / Regt

RPG

Rte

RUR

Rwy

SAA

Sec

Shellreps

Sigs

SIT NOR

SOS

Sqn

Str

TCV

Vis

X rds

Map Reference

1st Battalion The Royal Ulster Rifles

Second-in-Command

2nd Battalion The Ox and Bucks Light Infantry

Anti-Aircraft

Airborne Division

Adjutant

Advanced Dressing Station

Airborne

Airlanding

Airlanding Brigade

Ammunition

Artillery

Anti-Tank

Attached

Blitz Buggy

Brigade

Boundary

Battalion Headquarters

Battalion

Bridge

Battery

Counterattack

Counter Battery

Church of England

Commanding Officer

Commander

Communication

Company

Defensive Fire

District

Division / Divisional

Drop Zone

Established

Field

Forward Defended Locality

Forces Françaises de l'Intérieur (French Resistance)

Forward Observation Bombardment

Forward Observation Officer

Forming Up Place

Forward

Group

Ground

Grenadier Regiment

Grenadier

Highland

Horse-drawn

High Explosive

Heavy Machine Gun

Intelligence

In-Command

Immediately

Including

Infantry

Instructions

Intelligence Officer

Junction

Light Machine Gun

Light

Landing Zone

Main Dressing Station

Medium

Machine Gun

Medium Machine Gun

Mobile

Motor Transport

Navy Army Air Force Institute

Officer Commanding
Officer

Orders Group

Operation Order

Observation Post / Operation (if lower case)

Opposite

Opposition

Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry

Other Ranks

Organisation

Pounder

Platoon

Position

Possible

Physical Training

Prisoner of War

Panzer

Quartermaster

Royal Artillery

Royal Army Medical Corps

Regimental Aid Post

Road

Royal Engineers

Received

Regiment

Road Junction

Rounds per Gun

Right

Route

Royal Ulster Rifles

Railway

Small Arms

Small Arms Ammunition

Section

Shell reports

Signals

Situation Normal

Save our Souls

Self-Propelled

Squadron

Special Service

Strength

Troop Carrying Vehicle

Visibility

Worcestershire Yeomanry

Crossroads

1100 - Sgt [Disper?] killed instantly and Lieut T.J. Seale fatally injured by the accidental explosion of a grenade in B Coy lines. Major T.J. Warner and 9 O.R.s also injured. Normal recreational activities continued throughout the day.

Briefing of All Ranks continues, together with recreational training. Information received loading to commence 1000 hrs 4 JUN. Major Rickcord allowed to take over command B Coy.

1000 - Loading commences at Broadwell and Down Ampney Airfield. Normal activities for personnel not concerned with loading.

1900 - All Ranks informed that D Day for operation 'OVERLORD' would be 6 JUNE 1944.

2100 - Party of officers and O.R.s proceeded to Broadwell airfield to watch the departure of 9 Para. Bn commanded by Lt.Col. T.B.H. Otway. Take off commenced 2250 hrs and all aircraft away by 2350 hrs.

1500 - All personnel taking part provided with a fatless meal to prevent or reduce air sickness. Tea and water provided in Gliders and All Ranks instructed to drink as much as possible before landing. Information received from Broadwell airfield that 9 Para Bn had been dropped on correct DZs and that landing strips for Gliders on LZs had been clearly visible. Information also received from Blakehill Farm that Major Drummond who had taken off with H.Q. 6 Air Div the previous night from Harwell Airfield had forced landed and was returning to Blakehill Farm.

1700 - Bn moved to take off airfield Broadwell and Down Ampney. All arrangements proceeded according to plan, except the load in the spare glider at Broadwell. A/Tk Pl had to be changed for M.M.G. load at last moment, but completed in time before take off.

1832 - 1st combination off from Broadwell Airfield. For the first hour of the flight which took place over England the weather was [showery?] and flying conditions bumpy. After crossing the coast at approx 2000 hrs flying conditions improved.

2100 - Glider No [?] (Major G. Rickcord. B Coy H.Q.) touched down, 6 mins before time scheduled. LZ N 1/25000 sheet CAEN 116749. Slight enemy opposition on LZ from Mortars and M.G.s, and difficulty in removing tails of vehicle carrying gliders was reported. Bn check point X rds 111739. Captain Gordon reported on M.M.G. Pl glider on fire after landing.

2230 - Bn H.Q. established Le Bas de Ranville. Farm buildings 105734 and Bn reported complete less one Rfn missing from the glider which caught fire on LZ. (Rfn Woodburn [F?] Coy). DR reported Bde H.Q. established at 106731. Information received that enemy in following areas:

0200 - C Coy report in position on Ring Contour '30'. No opposition encountered. One Pl M.M.G. in support. Bn task of seizing STE HONORINE and LONGUEVAL confirmed. Orders issued by CO.

0900 - A and B Coys enter Longueval without opposition. C Coy subjected to heavy shelling and mortar fire. A and B Coys move to position at 093718 and 088715 for attack on Ste Honorine. D Coy move forward to Rd junc 085715. Appx D.

1215 - A and B Coys enter Ste Honorine, but forced to withdraw owing to immediate enemy counter attack supported by S.P. Guns. Very heavy shelling and mortaring of C Coy area continues and C.O. orders evacuation of 'Ring Contour 30' and concentration of Bn in Longueval.

1615 - Area subjected to heavy and continuous enemy mortar fire; digging in proceeded in disposition shown on attached trace. Casualties during the day had been heavy, but Medical Services had been very satisfactory and all wounded personnel had been evacuated to M.D.S. in RANVILLE. In view of the early and trying 'baptism of fire' of the majority of the Bn personnel, morale was high and all were completely confident in the task of holding LONGUEVAL.

Information was received that the 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks Lt Infy had entered ESCOVILLE but in face of a very strong counter attack had been forced to withdraw to the area of HEROUVILLETTE. Information was received that the operation to date was proceeding satisfactorily although stronger resistance had been met than had been anticipated. The assaulting divisions had cut the CAEN - BAYEUX Road.

Wounded Lt C. O'Hara, Lt D.A.S. Murphy, Lt F.W. Hindson, Lt W.E. Dean, Lt H.R. Morgan and 64 ORs.

Missing Lt R.N. Morgan and 67 ORs. Lt Morgan was last seen leaving STE HONORINE with his Pl after the withdrawal had been ordered, but no further information was forthcoming as to whether or not he had been wounded.

0600 - Shelling and mortaring continued throughout the night but decreased in intensity towards dawn.

0900 - Bn H.Q. moved to house of M'sieur DAVOISNE, LONGUEVAL. Further digging and improvement of positions continued during the morning, frequently interrupted by enemy snipers in small groups penetrating woods behind the Bn position. Shelling and mortaring continued particular in area of Bn H.Q., but owing to the position of LONGUEVAL on the side of a hill dropping away to the RIVER ORNE, a considerable number of shells and mortar bombs fell in and on the far side of the river.

1515 - Area heavily shelled by guns in area of LZ M, causing casualties. Bde informed as it was believed that shelling was by British unit by mistake. This was subsequently confirmed by the finding of a nosecap from British shell. This was handed to Bde for investigation. A/Tk crew killed by direct hit on position.

1600 - Sniping continued from area behind Bn H.Q. D+2 Sea Party commanded by [unreadable] arrived in Longueval and ordered to commenced digging immediately behind Bn H.Q.

1700 - Enemy shelling, mortaring and sniping continued throughout the day and until a late hour. Counter battery fire by own Arty. Information received from Bde that position in bridgehead area continued to be satisfactory. Enemy had made several attempts to destroy the bridges over the River ORNE and Canal without success, and a further bridge had been constructed by the Sappers.

1725 - A body of enemy seen in area behind Bn H.Q. apparently forming up for an attack. Then seen extending and moving towards B Coy area. Numbers not confirmed but approx one platoon. Enemy firstly engaged by Rfn Griffiths from attic, and considerable small arms fire followed for some time. Enemy penetrated wood immediately in front of B Coy position, to hand grenade distance where one German was shot attempting to throw a grenade into B Coy forward positions. Enemy also penetrated woods on A Coys left flank. After a considerable interchange of small arms fire, the enemy were eventually driven off after what would appear to have been a rather half hearted attack on the Bn position. Three enemy dead located and brought in for burial.

1800 - Enemy mortaring recommenced but nearly all bombs fell on far side of river. Counter battery by own mortars and Arty.

1825 - Capt Rigby arrived at Bn H.Q. and stated that the shelling of the Bn area during the early afternoon had been by British unit on far side of river. He had swum river and canal in an endeavour to stop them, and had narrowly escaped capture by enemy D.R. He subsequently recrossed the river and canal and reported back in very damp pants and vest. Reclothed in trousers from ex H.Q. TODT ORGANISATION, LONGUEVAL.

2250 - Considerable enemy interference and jamming on wireless set link with Bde H.Q. and frequent interruptions by voice speaking in English but believed to be a German station. This voice kept asking for code signs and would not give SLIDEX authentication when so challenged.

2315 - Communications with Bde reestablished, but still considerable enemy interference and jamming.

0400 - Enemy and own shelling and mortaring. Counter Battery fire on STE HONORINE where it is suspected S.P. gun is firing from.

0700 - CO to attend conference Bde H.Q. 0900 hrs. Information received 12 Para Bn to move to LONGUEVAL this morning. Bn would put in attack on STE HONORINE and 12 Para Bn would secure F.U.P. for Bn attack. Slight enemy shelling and mortaring continued from area of hill SW of STE HONORINE, and snipers still active in woods around Bn H.Q.

1100 - 12 Para Bn arrive in LONGUEVAL and prepare to move forward to occupy FUP on line of woods 092719 - 088716.

1130 - CO gives out orders to O Group, meanwhile sniping continues with increasing violence and reports received that 12 Para Bn being heavily mortared on F.U.P.

1210 - Information received that Arty fire plan would not be possible owing to more important engagements; attack on Ste Honorine was therefore cancelled by Bde Comdr.

1300 - 12 Para Bn ordered to withdraw from F.U.P. Owing to heavy mortaring 12 Para Bn had suffered heavy casualties; all possible aid was received to get casualties to RAP but great difficulty was experienced owing to snipers and continuing mortar fire.

1400 - Lieut Chapman and 20 Platoon swept woods behind Bn H.Q. in order to clear out snipers.

1410 - Information received that RAP was being attacked and that casualties on Medical Jeeps were being sniped by Germans at 20 yds range. From subsequent reports this early information was confirmed, and it was also verified that Lt Col Anderson Comdg 195 Field Ambulance who had been working in the RAP had been shot. Major J. Drummond and Major F.R.A. Hynds both witnessed the occurrence, and both waved Red Cross flags so as to be fully visible to the German snipers. Major Hynds subsequently reported that one German had waved the Ambulance train on after he had shouted to him and waved the Red Cross flag. Several casualties were shot and further wounds caused during this incident and one R.A.M.C. nursing orderly was shot dead whilst assisting personnel on stretchers.

1415 - Recce Pl sent forward to corner of wood 092719 to endeavour to secure forward edges of woods against infiltration by enemy snipers, and C.O. issued orders that in future D Coy would maintain standing patrol in that area.

1540 - Cpl Stewart arrived from Recce Pl in Bn H.Q. area and reported that Lt Campbell had been injured and was lying NORTH of the wall behind Bn H.Q., in the open, and exposed to fire of a body of 18 enemy who were preventing his evacuation. Capt Rigby was endeavouring to get Lt Campbell out and had sent down for as much 2" mortar smoke as possible to cover the evacuation. 2" mortar smoke bombs were delivered to him and under cover of the smoke Lt Campbell was brought back to the road at point 090720. The Recce Pl was then attacked and fired upon by an enemy SP Gun which severely wounded Rfn McIlroy. Under heavy fire Lt Campbell and Rfn McIlroy were evacuated to R.A.P. where Rfn McIlroy died that night. Lt Campbell was evacuated to base.

1700 - Capt Rigby reported that an attack by enemy infantry supported by an S.P. gun appeared imminent.

1705 - Several rounds from enemy S.P. Gun passed over Bn H.Q. Lt Quinn, one of whose 6 pdr Anti-Tank guns was in position behind Bn H.Q. reported that he had seen the smoke from the S.P. Gun which was lying behind a wood at close range, and from the smoke he could estimate the position of the gun. C.O. issued orders for fire to be opened from the 6 Pdr under Lt Quinn's direction; using SABOT shot not previously used by the Bn A/Tk Pls.

1715 - 6 Pdr opened fire much to the consternation of Bn H.Q. personnel who were manning the windows at the rear of the house in which Bn H.Q. was situated. The blast from the 6 Pdr shattered the few remaining windows, brought down several ceilings and knocked over all people who were standing near windows. All concerned were of the opinion that a direct hit from the S.P. gun had been made on the house. This view was increased when a second round was fired, and large numbers were seen to evacuate the house. The 6 Pdr SABOT shot knocked over a large number of trees behind Bn H.Q. It could not be ascertained whether any damage had been caused to the S.P. Gun, but all firing ceased and enemy force withdrew from the area.

1530 - Information received that enemy reinforcements approx 800 strong had arrived in area of COLOMBELLES. This information was received from a civilian source. (M'sieur DAVOISNE in whose house Bn H.Q. was situated, had by this time become invaluable for confirming the reliability or otherwise of civilians arriving with information: Lt FOGT acting as Bn interpreter and invaluable as such.)

1900 - Quiet day, only slight enemy activity. Normal patrols to area of woods EAST of Bn area and to wireless [?] wood 088715.

Information received from Bde that original advance on CAEN as planned had met considerably more opposition than had been anticipated. It could not be confirmed that the high ground on the other side of the river from LONGUEVAL was in Allied hands. Very large Allied bombing forces seen passing over in an easterly direction. Complete absence of enemy aircraft, although reports indicate that several further attempts had been made to bomb the bridges over the river ORNE and canal without success. It is understood that the LONGUEVAL area has become known as the "ANZIO beachhead of Normandy", as the Bn had been considerably farther inland since D Day than other forces, and more particularly in view of the remoteness of the village from the remainder of the Division. All attempts to penetrate further south on the left flank of the Division had been repulsed. Supplies were very well maintained notwithstanding the enemy's efforts to shell the RANVILLE-LONGUEVAL Rd, which achieved success to the extent that only the tow path beside the river was in any way safe for vehicles. Great difficulty was experienced in maintaining line communications with Bde owing to 'cutting' by enemy patrols or shellfire. Comn at night have also become very difficult owing to the 'jamming' of 22 set by enemy. Regardless of the possibility of being 'cut off' by enemy forces, morale remains very high amongst All Ranks, although considerable speculation was always being made as to when relieving forces would arrive.

2000 - Considerable increase in activity WEST of River ORNE from LONGUEVAL, but no reports forthcoming.

0130 - Bn H.Q. subjected to fairly heavy enemy mortar fire, approx 15 bombs landing in and around the area.

0210 - Counter Bty fire brought down on STE HONORINE and enemy mortar fire ceased. Remaining of morning reasonably quiet but enemy nuisance snipers again penetrated woods EAST of area harassing Coy areas. Church Services held in Coy areas and well attended by All Ranks.

1130 - Bn H.Q. moved from house of Msieur Davoisne to previous area of slit trenches opposite house number 157 in main street through village. Remainder of the day was quiet except for slight enemy mortaring and sniping. Morale high and all ranks in good form.

0350 - Enemy commenced shelling of Longueval, and CB fire by 3 Div Arty brought down. Intermittent shelling continued throughout the day.

0900 - Information received from Bde H.Q. that R Group of 5 Camerons would arrive in Bn area for recce of F.U.P. for attack on Ste Honorine at 1000 hrs. Attack scheduled for early on 13 July 44.

1200 - R Group 5 Camerons arrived. C.O. offered to secure F.U.P. with D Coy and details fixed for arrival of 5 Camerons in Bn area at 0300 hrs 13 July. H hour provisionally 0400 hrs. Attack to be preceded by Arty barrage from 2 Field Regiments and 2, possibly 3 Medium Regiments. Barrage to commenced H-10 mins and continue until H+30. F.U.P. to be forward edge of wood to EAST of LONGUEVAL.

1230 - Bn H.Q. returned to house of Msieur Davoisne. Sniping and shelling continued throughout day, but otherwise situation normal.

0200 - Very heavy air bombardment of CAEN seen from Bn H.Q. D Coy report F.U.P. secured, but under mortar fire.

0500 - D Coy arrived back in Bn area, and reported 5 Cameron attack in progress. Mortaring on F.U.P. had been heavy and casualties were being brought in from D Coy and 5 Camerons.

0515 - All possible assistance sent up to F.U.P. from Bn H.Q. as 5 Cameron casualties heavier than expected owing to the heavy enemy mortar and shellfire. Own barrage appeared to have little effect on enemy mortars.

0805 - Rfn Irvine (I Sec) reported that he had met a Bren carrier of 5 Cameron the driver of which had informed him that his Bn had been forced to evacuate Ste Honorine in face of heavy enemy counter attack incl armour. Bn in some disorder.

0900 - Situation very vague, but reports received from fwd coys indicate that 5 Cameron withdrawing from Ste Honorine, and enemy following up with armour.

0925 - Officer Commanding 5 Camerons (Lt. Col. Munro) arrived at Bn H.Q. with information that his Bn had been forced to withdraw in face of enemy armour and S.P. Guns. He had approx one Coy under his control in the area of WOOD 092719 and placed himself and personnel at disposal of C.O. C.O. requested that he move his Coy to SOUTH end of LONGUEVAL where they would stiffen up C Coy area on TOW PATH.

0940 - Message sent to all coys to allow personnel of 5 Cameron to pass through our lines and to remain fast in present dispositions. Heavy small arms fire heard from EAST.

1020 - Information received from Bde that enemy movement from Ste HONORINE had swung NORTH but had been halted and situation temporarily restored.

1100 - All remaining elements of 5 Cameron reported moving along TOW PATH towards Quarry 095726, but no notification received at Bn H.Q. from 5 Cameron to that effect. Enemy shelling and mortaring of Bn area.

1215 - Report received that one officer and 30 men of 5 Cameron in Ste HONORINE and village entirely clear of enemy. This party was ordered to withdraw to LONGUEVAL and join remainder of Bn in quarry.

1500 - Warning Order from Bde H.Q. that Bn would be prepared to move up 0600 hrs 14 June. Destination not known, but R Group to Bde H.Q. immediately.

1900 - R Group returned. Bn to move the following day to BREVILLE. LONGUEVAL to be taken over by 5 Cameron.

1915 - Wireless Message received from Bde that one Coy to proceed to BREVILLE immediately. D Coy despatched.

1920 - Enemy shelling and mortaring of Bn area, several bombs falling in Bn H.Q. area.

0600 - Slight enemy shelling and mortaring during the night, but otherwise situation normal.

0930 - Bn. entered BREVILLE across area of LZ 'N' and taking over from 12 Para Bn. Bn. H.Q. established in large house next to BREVILLE church, and beside X rds. Bn H.Q. house previously occupied by CURE of BREVILLE but now very badly damaged.

1130 - Taking over complete. 12 Para Bn move back from BREVILLE towards RANVILLE.

1500 - German P.W. taken by B Coy (identification 185 Inf Reg). P.W. stated that an enemy coy was in area of Le Bas de BREVILLE and that their morale was very bad. He was of the opinion that they would all desert and surrender if attacked.

1600 - A Coy complete moved fwd towards LONGUEMARE X Rds, with six SHERMAN tanks under command with orders to confirm information supplied by PW and subject to Maj Vickery's (O.C. A Coy) appreciation of the situation to raid the area of Le Bas de BREVILLE and destroy enemy forces in that area.

1615 - Maj. Vickery reported that the tanks had been ordered to return by their Sqn Comdr and enemy posns too strong to be taken on by raiding party however strong, unless sufficient fire support arranged.

1620 - A Coy ordered to ascertain exact enemy dispositions, strengths and if possible fire power, and to return to reserve coy area SOUTH of BREVILLE.

1700 - A Coy returned to BREVILLE. Arty task brought down on enemy area in Le Bas de Breville.

0600 - Quiet night and situation normal. All ranks continued digging and improving defences.

0900 - Bn. visited by Brigadier Flavell on taking over command of Bde. Brigadier Kindersley having been wounded during the attack on BREVILLE. Bn congratulated on excellent work by All Ranks since commencement of operation in Normandy.

1915 - 3 Commando versus Boche at Xrds 144750. Result 10000 rds of amn expended.

0600 - Quiet night except for slight enemy mortaring of fwd coys quickly silenced by own mortars.

1015 - Information received at Bn. H.Q. that Lt. Quinn had been shot dead by enemy sniper whilst inspecting his Pl A/Tk disposition.

1100 - 10 deserters came in through D Coy (identified as 7 Coy 857 Gren. Reg.) The first two were Poles and the last eight Germans, who stated that they had been sent out after the Polish deserters. From varying reports it appeared that after the two Poles had passed through a sentry had seen the second party beckoning to him. He had beckoned back and when the enemy approached closer to him he had opened fire. They had immediately gone to ground, and after the exchange of a few rounds had surrendered. The party of Germans stated that they had thought the sentry was one of the Polish deserters. The deserters also stated that an attack supported by 150 aircraft was planned for later the same morning.

1200 - This information was passed to Bde and information subsequently received that an air support had been laid on. Completion of defences continued and it was noticeable that larger numbers of aircraft were overhead. All Ranks expressed satisfaction that extra air support was forthcoming so soon.

1400 - Sporadic mortaring and shelling by enemy. Large numbers of enemy dead still in area and dead cattle and sheep causing considerable discomfort and efforts being made to clear area. 37 enemy dead buried in orchard SOUTH of BREVILLE X Rds. Very little enemy action during remainder of day, and expected attack did not materialise.

0200 - A Coy recce patrol report approximately 40 enemy in Wood 132741 200 yds from Bn H.Q. Efforts subsequently made to confirm this without success, and information discounted as unreliable. Information received that H.M. THE KING had toured the beaches the previous day. Air cover believed to have been laid on for expected enemy attack had been to cover the royal visit. All Ranks improving defence works. Situation normal and quiet. Patrols to Le Bas de BREVILLE and area during the night.

0600 - Considerable Arty fire during the night but situation normal at 'Stand To'.

0900 - Bde H.Q. moved to WOOD 132741 behind Bn position: 12 Devon also move to area behind Bn.

1100 - Bn visited by Corps Comdr with Bde Comdr. C.O. not available, so Gen. Browning stated that he would return the following day.

1200 - Situation quiet, occasional mortar fire from and to Bn area. "The [unreadable] Grip" retrieved from LONGUEVAL by [M80?] and hung at Bn H.Q.

0600 - Situation normal. Quiet night with slight mortaring from both sides. Considerable air activity reported over Ouistreham during the night, but amount of A.A. fire in area appears to be considerably less, particularly that of enemy.

1450 - When moving to area of WOOD 144746 in order to establish O.P. section of Recce Pl came under fire and Cpl Riley had been hit. Sgt Hardy, Pl Sgt, returned for assistance. Two pls of D Coy sent forward under Lt Malcolm to cover the withdrawal of Cpl Riley and the remainder of 3 Pl, but on arrival found the wood empty of enemy. They moved to the forward edge, but then came under very heavy mortar and M.G. fire from direction of Le Bas de BREVILLE, and several men were wounded. After pulling back to the SE end of the wood they were pinned down by enemy fire and Lt Malcolm despatched a runner to Bn H.Q. for assistance. Lt Malcolm was eventually able to extricate the Pls and returned to D Coy area.

1600 - Considerable S.A. fire from area of 52nd. W.T. message overheard that 52nd H.Q. had been shelled and Q.M. and Major Favell killed and one other officer wounded.

2240 - D report noises from NE similar to move of M.T. or tracked vehicles, but not possible to say exactly what the noise suggests. Bde informed.

2245 - Flashes from area of Le Bas de Breville followed by explosions, suggest ammunition dump hit by Arty. Bde informed.

0600 - Situation normal. Quiet night but artillery busy, shelling of Le Bas de Breville area continued throughout the night.

1100 - A and B Coys change areas, B Coy coming into the reserve Coy area behind Bn H.Q. Very little enemy activity throughout the day, in Bn area, but small arms fire and mortaring heard from area of 52nd. Lt.General Crocker, Comdg I Corps visited the Bn area with G.O.C. Recce patrol visited WOOD 144746 but no contact with enemy. Bodies of two enemy had been moved, but body of Cpl Riley still in same position. No signs of enemy in Le Bas de Breville.

0600 - Situation normal. No enemy activity noted during the night. Recce patrol under Lt. P.J. Bryan had proceeded to WOOD 144746 and reported that they had been unable to make contact. Several magazines L.M.G. had been fired in direction of village of Le Bas de Breville but had not drawn enemy fire. Normal improvement of defences continued and more bathing in A.D.S.

1500 - Patrol from 3 Pl proceeded to area of WOOD 144746 and recovered bodies of Cpl Riley and Rfn Keogh. No sign of enemy, but patrol from A Coy under Lt Milliken reported enemy to be seen in village. Bn snipers in position all day in WOOD 144746 reported that they had not seen any enemy in the area. The body of Rfn McGuire who had been reported missing the day before had been found and arrangements made for it to be brought in during the night.

1600 - Several shells from enemy S.P. Gun fell in A Coy area but no casualties reported.

Meteorological: Cold wind and cloudy. Mail services interrupted owing to high seas preventing unloading on Beach.

0005 - Slight mortar fire on Bn area, otherwise situation very quiet. A large fire visible from Bn H.Q. from direction of beaches, suggesting enemy hit on amn dump.

0900 - Daily Routine proceeded normally with visit by 2 i/c [M80?] and Loading Officer to BAYEUX in order to obtain comforts for Bn H.Q. Officers Mess.

1700 - Enemy S.P. Gun firing on Bn H.Q. area. Cpl [?] and [?] escaped injury when shell landed 6 feet from his trench.

1800 - Situation very quiet. Large numbers of Allied bombers overhead, and bombing of COLLOMBELLES appeared to be taking place by large numbers of the dive bombers.

0420 - Shelling continues believed from S.P. Guns. Shelling and mortaring by both sides. Several enemy shells in vicinity on Bn H.Q.

1238 - STE HONORINE reported captured by 5 Camerons at 0300 hrs following silent attack. Enemy CA beaten off. 40 tanks supported CA, and 17 of these reported destroyed.

1745 - Enemy fire 'leaflet bombs' over Bde area, large numbers including unexploded cases of leaflets falling in Bn area. Appx J.

1900 - Enemy and own shelling continues. Several enemy shells in vicinity of Bn H.Q. Considerably more activity by mortars and arty on both sides during the day, but no damage in Bn area.

0600 - Quiet night and situation normal. Very little activity during the day. Occasional shelling by sides with no apparent damage. Enemy fired more leaflets in D Coy area. Mail and postal services considerably improved owing to change in weather, and reports received that unloading is proceeding normally on the beaches.

1200 - Snipers out in forward areas but report very little activity in area Le Bas de Breville.

1820 - Coys report slight increase in enemy mortar firing, but bursts appear to be confined to area of 12 Devon on rt flank.

2100 - Conference of Coy Comdrs Bn H.Q. during which mortar fire increased considerably.

0025 - Considerable increase in enemy mortaring on rt. flank increasing in intensity with small arms fire from direction of 12 Devon positions on rt flank. Flares going up from forward positions and increase in shelling from both sides. Great difficulty in distinguishing between enemy and own gunfire due apparently to CB fire from WEST of R. ORNE.

0145 - D Coy report hearing tracked vehicles moving in area to right of their coy positions.

0150 - Information received from Bde that small enemy attack or increased patrol activity in area of 12 Devon, but situation in hand, and situation otherwise normal. B Coy patrol which had been pinned down by enemy small arms fire returned. Bde instructions received to cancel the nights patrolling activities.

0220 - C Coy patrol recalled from area X rds 144750 by bugle. Shelling and mortaring continued with some intensity, and A Coy report bomb dropped from aircraft forward of their locality.

1400 - Information received that night attack was on 7 Para. Slight enemy infiltration repulsed.

2300 - Patrols B and C Coys proceeding to area X rds 144750 and wood 147746 to obtain identifications. Officers of patrols Lt Archdale and Lt Malcolm.

0120 - Slight activity from Bn front. Flares and small arms fire. Patrols returned but Lt Archdale missing (See appx). Quite night with slight mortar fire by own and enemy mortars.

0900 - Visit by Bde Comdr who informed C.O. that the Bn would move into reserve on 27 Jun. Bn area at BREVILLE would be taken over by 2nd Bn Oxf. and Bucks L. Inf.

1800 - Bn R Group recce new positions. Bn H.Q. C. D. and S Coys to area Rd junction 131745. B Coy to area of Bde H.Q. 136727, A Coy to area of wood 132742. See trace W. Relief to commence 271000 hrs, and Coys to move in order D, A, C, S, B Coy, Bn H.Q. 271045 hrs.

Information received that attack by British troops in area WEST of CAEN proceeding satisfactorily. First objective taken. Arty fire in considerable strength heard from CAEN area from 0600 hrs until approx 1200 hrs. BBC news states organised resistance in CHERBOURG had ceased. Mopping up in progress.

1210 - Bn H.Q. established in house 130745. Bde Comdr visited Bn during afternoon and order subsequently given to C.O. for Bn to move the following day to area immediately behind BREVILLE. Reason for further move to get all troops out of buildings and to strengthen position of other two Bns of the Bde. B Coy to stay in new area.

1900 - Orders issued by C.O. for move on 28th commencing 1400 hrs in order C, S Coys, Bn H.Q., D Coy. A Coy to remain in present position.

2230 - Heavy small arms fire shelling and mortaring heard from area of 3 Para Bde. Information received from 6 AL Bde that offensive action being taken against enemy on 3 Para Bde front.

0300 - Considerable shelling and mortaring heard from NE. Presumably Commando raid.

1500 - Bn H.Q. established in orchard 131741. Dispositions of Coys shown on attached trace.

1600 - Situation normal. Considerable Allied air activity over Divisional Area. Slight shelling and mortaring. Information received from Bde that 52nd would be moving into reserve at RANVILLE on 1 JUL and 1 S.S. Bde would take over BREVILLE. Bn to remain in present position for time being.

0600 - Quiet night. Enemy activity over beaches driven off by very heavy AA fire. Considerable Allied air activity in form of fighter patrol over the area.

0600 - Considerable Arty and AA fire heard during the night, but no activity in immediate area.

1600 - General peace disturbed by heavy enemy barrage from "multiple mortars" in area between HEROUVILLETTE and STE HONORINE.

1900 - Spasmodic shelling around area, but no shells reported in Coy Areas. Information received from Bde H.Q.; enemy continues to bring up reserves to area SW of CAEN, but all counter attacks so far had been successfully held. Mail services today good; letter dated 27 June being delivered to personnel at 0900 hrs. It is understood that this mail arrived in the area by air.

1950 - Three enemy aircraft very low over Bn area, and one bomb dropped near C Coy area.

2040 - Fairly heavy mortar firing; landing 200 yds EAST of C Coy, and very heavy Arty or AA barrage heard from beachhead area.

2220 - B Coy report in position at brick works 137727 and now under command 3 Para Bde.

2330 - Infmn received from Bde:- (a) Organised shelling and mortaring of enemy posns on 2 July might involve increased enemy shell and mortar activity. (b) Enemy main mob reserve now est within striking distance and although unlikely that enemy thrust would be on Div front at first instance Bde front must be carefully watched by day and night. Units to be particularly alert during three hours starting just before first light and three hours before dark. Capt Gordon attached H.Q. 6 AL Bde as Bde M.M.G. Officer and assistant staff officer.

0110 - Small arms fire and mortar fire heard from NORTH and NE, and considerable numbers of 'overs' in Bn area.

0230 - Small arms firing continues and A Coy report that an enemy patrol may have penetrated the Bde line, as flashes of small arms fire were seen and firing heard behind the positions of 12 Devon. B Coy reported 4 casualties from enemy mortaring.

0930 - Bn area very muddy following the previous nights rain. Church services which had been arranged on a Bn basis were cancelled owing to the warning of increased enemy shelling and Coy services arranged instead.

0900, 1000, 1100, 1200 - Church parades held in Coy areas and R.C. Church Service in Breville Church.

1000 - Information received from Bde that previous nights firing had resulted from the efforts of 12 Devon to clear wood 145742 and that as far as could be ascertained no enemy had approached or penetrated the Bde F.D.L.s.

1530 - Operation Order No.1 of 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks Lt Infy received. Coy raid on enemy posn at 147747 to take place 030230 B.

1800 - Information received from Bde H.Q. that draft of 100 men would arrive on 4 July 44.

1800 - C.O. issued orders for possible counter attack on BREVILLE in the event of positions of 2 Oxf & Bucks in areas of FARM or ORCHARD being penetrated.

2100 - Instructions received from Bde that one 6 Pdr to take up position in area of B Coy and to come under command of 3 Para Bde on 3 July. Further information obtained at Bde and from B.B.C. news it appears that situation on the front SW of CAEN is fairly quiet. Enemy had been patrolling and probing our positions but if anything, Allied positions had been pushed slightly forward. It would appear that both sides are preparing for a battle of some importance, and that the future moves of 6 A.B. Div would hinge on the outcome of that battle.

2200 - Activities during the day, improving positions, P.T., talk by Pl Comdrs and Resting.

0900 - Shelling and mortaring during the night, but no bombs in Bn area. Very little activity during the day. Weather very bad. Continuous heavy rain from early hours of the morning until 1800 hrs and most officers and men drying out slit trenches and adding extra waterproofing.

1900 - Information received from Bde that 1/RUR would relieve 12 Devon on 4 July. Timings and other arrangements to be agreed mutually. Operation Order No.1 for counter attack on BREVILLE issued. Information received from Bde and B.B.C. news that Americans have commenced attack on Western flank of bridgehead. British and Canadian sector still quiet, with strong patrolling on both sides.

0600 - Slight enemy shelling and mortaring during night and some small arms fire from area of 52nd and 12 Devon. Large numbers of 'overs' fall near Bn H.Q. R.S.M. reports he was 'pinned down' by overs whilst calling personnel for 'Stand To'.

1000 - CO and 2i/c recce area of 12 Devon prior to arranging [move?] on 4 July.

1400 - Coy Comdrs recce area of 12 Devon and not impressed. Very muddy, smell of large numbers of bodies under ruined buildings.

1600 - CO returns from Bde conference with instructions that move postponed for 24 hrs owing to possible alternative move to area at present occupied by 5 Para Bde.

1700 - CO called to Bde H.Q. where move to area of 5 Para Bde confirmed. Bn to take over from 12 Para Bn by 0900 hrs 4 July in area of X rds 140728.

2230 - O Group Bn H.Q., C.O. issued orders for move; as follows:- D Coy 0900-1000, A Coy 0930 to 1030, C Coy 1000 to 1100, S Coy 1430. Bn H.Q. 1200 hrs.

2300 - Slight enemy and own shelling but no bombs in area. B Coy report four F Coy from gun crews in area of 5 Para Bde.

2100 - Two very heavy A.A. barrages put up during the evening at enemy fighters over bridgehead area. Information received from Bde that American push going very well, while Canadians on left flank WEST of CAEN had further improved their positions against very heavy opposition.

0600 - Quiet night, slight small arms fire but very little shelling or mortaring. Early preparations for move.

1200 - Bn H.Q. moves and established in house and farm area 137728 at Le Mesnil.

1400 - Bn move less S Coy reported complete. From information received from 9 Para Bn previously in the area, it is understood that the area is frequently mortared particularly in area of x rds 140728.

1430 - Bn employed checking defences and improving slit trenches. Area very quiet.

2240 - Sudden burst of enemy mortar fire in area. One slight casualty (Sgt [Huddy?]) reported from Recce Pl. Occasional mortaring and some small arms fire. Enemy plane low over Bn area. No patrols.

Meteorological: Warm. Fine. (First really fine day since commencement of operation).

0600 - Noisy night, approx 60 shells and mortar bombs landed in Bn area. Some enemy air activity overhead, one plane diving to within 50 feet of Bn H.Q. and dropping five bombs in area of Bde H.Q. D Coy runner wounded when returning from D Coy to Bn H.Q.

1200 - Five mortar bombs land in S Coy area, wounding one man (Rfn [Gayle?]) and damaging several vehicles: Rfn Walsh of 4 Pl showed great presence of mind in driving a burning vehicle containing H.E. to the nearest water supply and putting out the fire.

0200 - During the night one shell landed immediately beside S Coy Control Post without causing any casualties.

1300 - Considerable enemy shelling and mortaring during the morning, one casualty (Cpl Dempster) D Coy.

1400 - Two officer reinforcements joined the Bn, Lts Bennett and Cranston from Beachhead area. Posted B and A Coys respectively.

1630 - Quiet afternoon with some slight enemy mortaring. All Ranks digging and resting.

2100 - Twelve enemy deserters arrive in Bn area. All Russians who state that others would desert if given the opportunity. One man an ex Russian parachutist stated that he had spent two years in a German concentration camp before being given the alternative of being shot or of joining the German Army. Chose the German Army but deserted at the first opportunity. Reported one enemy mortar bomb had landed on wall beside Pioneer Pl area during the afternoon and had set fire to a trailer containing ammonal and other explosives. Rfn Walsh had removed the cover and at great risk to himself had extinguished the fire. Evening quiet, but enemy plane over Bn area. Slight machine gunning. Recce patrol out under Lt Malcolm.

0600 - Quiet night, slight enemy mortaring. Some enemy mortaring during morning causing one casualty in D Coy.

1000 - Information received from Major Hynds that Lt. Col. Harris Comdg 12 Para Bn had been shot and badly wounded by enemy sniper. Very little activity in Bn area during morning, some sniping in D Coy area and mortars in area of Bn H.Q. and A Coy.

1400 - Shelling increased early in afternoon, and Lt Murno and Cpl Kinsella injured by shrapnel. Heavy enemy and counter battery mortaring continued at frequent intervals during the afternoon.

1800 - Tannoy broadcasting system in Bn. area, issuing propaganda to Poles and Russians. Polish talks brought no reply from enemy but Russian broadcast resulted in heavy shelling of Bn area. One shell hit H.Q. house of A Coy, and injured four OR's of D Coy who were preparing food. Also direct hit on F Coy trench, Sgt [Fersmoor?] badly injured.

2140 - Heavy bombing attack on CAEN visible from Bn. area. Two waves of heavy bombers. No enemy fighters, but considerable flak, decreasing in intensity as attack progressed.

2230 - Enemy plane over Bn area, and three bombs dropped SOUTH of Bn H.Q. Patrol going out under Pte Hayes (Bn interrogator). Task to endeavour to entice in personnel manning enemy M.G. post.

2000 - Information received by Padre McGowan that Major F.R.A. Hynds injured by enemy mortar bomb and taken to M.D.S.

Casualties: Offrs 2 wounded, 277401 Lieut. R.J. Munro, 134847 Major Hynds F.R.A. O.Rs 7 wounded

0100 - Heavy small arms fire from fwd enemy positions, continuing for approx 30 mins. Slight mortaring during remainder of night but otherwise all quiet.

0425 - Pte Hayes (interrogator) and two Rfn return from patrol. Patrol had not been successful in taking prisoner, owing to bright moonlight, but M.M.G. positions located.

0900 - Major Johnston takes over command of C Coy. Capt Wilson takes over command of S Coy. Spasmodic mortaring by enemy continues during the day. Enemy obviously has area well ranged, particularly along BREVILLE - LE MESNIL Rd, and area of Xrds 140728. Also all hedges in fwd coy position.

1400 - Information received from Bde that attack by British on WEST of R. ORNE proceeding according to plan, and first objectives taken.

1500 - Bde O.O. No.1 received. TANNOY broadcast arranged for night, in Polish and German. German broadcast to be given by Pte Hayes (Bn interrogator). Spasmodic mortaring continues. Enemy firing approx five bombs at varying intervals of about 30 mins. Bombs falling in A, D, S, B Coy areas.

1900 - Information received from H.Q. 5 Para Bde that attack on CAEN proceeding satisfactorily, further objectives taken. B.B.C. news at 1800 hrs reports British forces ½ mile from centre of town.

0215 - Bde Major returns and reports 'TANNOY' broadcast successfully carried out, with no reply from enemy. Continuous mortaring of enemy position throughout night, but very little enemy reply.

0800 - Enemy mortaring on A and C Coy positions, several casualties (Pte Hoey fatally injured). Sgt McAlpine wounded by sniper.

1400 - Spasmodic mortaring by both sides during the day, but no other activity reported.

1700 - Information received from 5 Para Bde that 2 Bn R.U.R. had reached CAEN BDGE. Capture of CAEN reported on 1800 hrs news.

2000 - Situation normal. Arty task arranged to observe enemy reaction at hedge junction.

0600 - Enemy and own mortaring from time to time during the night and small arms fire heard from Bn flank during the night, but otherwise situation normal.

0921 - Information received that Allied attack on CAEN proceeding according to plan.

1121 - Enemy air activity over Bn area, one plane seen diving with smoke coming from it. O Group Conference during morning giving information of Coy attack by 13 Para Bn on 'Bob's Farm Area'. 147724 supported by one Fd Reg, one Lt Reg, and probably one Medium Reg. Bn would endeavour to create diversion and feint attack on Triangular Wood area 147734. Plan as follows:-

1630 - Arty opens fire, and immediate enemy reply by mortars S.P., [unreadable] mortars and S.A.

1900 - Enemy barrage continued unabated until 1900 hrs. Major Drummond returned from fwd posn and stated that he believed enemy had put down DF tasks. White verey lights seen fired in enemy posn shortly after plan for feint attack commenced. Several casualties caused by enemy mortaring and shelling and Bn reserve amn dump hit in orchard behind Bn H.Q.

2015 - Information received that attack on Bob's Farm had not been successful, although one Pl had penetrated posn. A second Pl had been held up by booby traps and mines. C.O. subsequently attended conference at Bde H.Q. at which it was decided that raids on enemy posns were not worth while, and attack by B Coy scheduled for [unreadable] 12 July was cancelled.

2359 - Remainder of quiet night. C Coy revert to command and move to posn near Bde H.Q.

Casualties: Offrs 1 killed. 235669 Lieut A.S. Cranston. O.Rs 1 killed 10 wounded

0600 - Continuous shelling heard throughout the night also enemy multiple barrel mortar firing in direction of STE HONORINE. Otherwise fairly quiet in Bn area.

1400 - Situation normal. Some enemy air activity over Bn area during the day, one plane seen smoking and diving to earth. Subsequently reported shot down. Party visited STE HONORINE and found graves of eleven persons previously reported missing after STE HONORINE attack on 7 June. Graves including those of Lt. R.N. Morgan and Sgt. McCayna.

2130 - Shoot up of enemy posns by fwd coys, mortars and Lt Bty. Very little enemy counter action.

0600 - Continuous arty fire during the night, increasing in intensity towards dawn, but very little falling in Bn area.

1250 - Enemy shelling of Bn area. Approx 40 shells in area of Bn H.Q., some very close. Attack appeared to be from enemy gun of heavier calibre than any previous attack.

1430 - During afternoon a party consisting of Adjutant, Pioneer Officer and Capt Burke 2i/c B Coy visited STE HONORINE in an endeavour to trace further missing personnel but without success owing to enemy mortaring.

1600 - Enemy shelling continued during afternoon, but shells landing further to N.W. behind Bn H.Q. 6 Airborne Division R.E.'s engaged all day strengthening Bn H.Q. house.

1900 - Situation normal but occasional mortar bombs in Bn area, causing casualties.

0900 - Spasmodic shelling and mortaring of area by enemy during the day, otherwise situation normal.

1930 - A and B Coys change position; B Coy moving forward EAST of BREVILLE - VARAVILLE Road. Slight mortaring during night, otherwise situation normal.

0430 - Large fires and explosions seen and heard in direction of CAEN, and sky slightly lit up for some period in that area.

1400 - Slight mortaring in Bn area, but no reply by own mortars or arty owing to prearranged 'quiet day'.

2000 - Very little enemy mortaring or shelling reported during the day and it would appear that the fires mainly in reply to our own fire. Bde propaganda O.O. No.2 received.

0035 - Some slight enemy air activity over Bn area, engaged by own A.A. fire. No bombs reported.

1400 - Situation quiet throughout the day except for occasional enemy and own mortar fire. Mortar Pl reported to have hit enemy mortar posn when engaged in C.B. shoot at 1340 hrs. Nothing further to report during the day.

0900 - Quiet night. Shelling and mortaring in area SOUTH of the Bn position: All Ranks engaged in improving defence works. Information received that 2nd Bn in area of BREVILLE.

1230 - C.O. attended investiture at Div H.Q. by General Montgomery. No.6984231 Rfn Feeney and No.3853060 Rfn Gilliland both awarded Military Medal for bravery under fire during attack on STE HONORINE. Situation: continued quiet during the day except for occasional enemy mortar bombs bursting in Bn area. First N.A.A.F.I. supplies of Beer and Whiskey received since D Day.

2305 - Enemy aircraft overhead, heavily engaged by our A.A. fire. Some loads dropped WEST of Bn position and B Coy report enemy forward troops giving bombline by firing amber green verey lights.

Bde 'quiet day'. Occasional mortaring and shelling of Bn area by enemy, but otherwise quiet. All Ranks engaged in improving defence works around Bn area. Considerable British forces crossing R ORNE and Canal and concentrating in Divisional Area. No transport other than C.Os Jeep allowed on Divisional Roads.

0545 - Very large force of British bombers passed over Bn area and bombing enemy positions to SOUTH EAST in direction of Bois de Bavent and TROARNE.

0620 - Heavy arty barrage opens up on area to SOUTH and information received from Bde H.Q. that a strong allied thrust supported by tank formations was imminent down EAST bank of R. ORNE. Information has been previously given to C.O. & 2i/c only. Heavy gunfire continued for several hours and large numbers of armoured fighting vehicles moving SOUTH from area of LZ 'N'. Information received during the day as the battle progressed was mainly from interceptions on the wireless nets of armoured formations and was not confirmed. Fighting appeared confused and very 'fluid' and with no large tank battles although minor tank battles were reported by Bde and Bn interceptor sets.

0900 - Lieut G.A. Maginnis killed whilst standing at door of B Coy H.Q. Mortar bomb landed in yard of farm. Lt. Maginnis hit by shrapnel and dying almost immediately.

2315 - Enemy bombers over area. Considerable number of flares dropped and bombing of area of bridges over ORNE river and canal, and LZ N continued with some intensity for approximately 30 mins. Enemy forward troops fired 'green' verey lights to indicate their position to own aircraft. No bombs or casualties reported in Bn area. Several fires burning in direction of R. ORNE, one apparently being an ammunition dump as continuous explosions seen and heard from Bn H.Q. Remainder of the night continued to be quiet with occasional shellfire by enemy and own troops.

1400 - Slight mortaring by enemy but no casualties reported. Information received regarding battle very confused, and not confirmed, but situation satisfactory. Bde wireless intercept reports Canadians in VAUCELLES and 3rd Div troops in northern outskirts of TROARNE.

1800 - Day continued quiet but fine evening brought about increase in air activity. Large numbers of Typhoons crossed Bn area, and medium bombers seen bombing area believed to be TROARNE.

Meteorological: Warm. Cloudy in morning, but clearing during afternoon and evening.

0600 - Quiet day, slight enemy bombing over area, and some shelling by own arty. Remainder of day quiet. Own mortars and arty put down 'STONK' on Triangle Wood, but very little enemy reply. Slight mortaring and shelling.

1030 - Move to Bde rest area at Breville commenced in very bad weather. D Coy remaining in Bde H.Q. area.

1100 - Bn received draft of 80 O.Rs. from Beach Groups. The Bn was unable to occupy new area until 1700 hrs owing to delayed move of 12 Para Bn.

1700 - Bn H.Q. est in orchard previously occupied in early July. SOUTH of BREVILLE Xrds, but most personnel of Bn H.Q. remained in M.D.S. building in Amfreville owing to bad condition of slit trenches. Move to be completed on following day. A Echelon of 2nd Bn in same building.

H Hr - 1630 hrs
H - H+5 mins	Bn mortars on Tasks I & II - HE
H+5 - H+15 mins	Bn mortars smoke
H+15 - H+20 mins	Smoke. Intensive S.A. fire from Bn fwd posns. incl MMGs
H+20 - H+35 mins	Mortars left from Task I on to NE end of Wood as if infantry attack about to come in.
H+35 - H+60 mins	Mortars back on Wood Task I.