Abbreviations

Month and year: June 1944

Commanding Officer : Lt. Col. A.S. Pearson

4th June 1944

Place: Blakewell Fm. Airfd Transit Camp

All preparations for Operation OVERLORD completed and Bn ready to emplane in evening.  Later in day message received putting D day to 6 June and Bn is stood down for 24 hrs.

5th June 1944

Place: Blakewell Fm. Airfd Transit Camp

D-1 and all preparations complete.

1930 - Major G. Payne with two Bn "pathfinder" sticks move off for HARWELL AIRFD.

2115 - Bn moves from Transit Camp to BLAKEHILL FM AIRFD.

2240 - GLIDERS TAKE-OFF.  (HORSA gliders - TUGS C.47s.)

2311 - C.47 Parachute A/C TAKE-OFF.

6th June 1944 - D Day

Place: Normandy, Touffreville

0020 - PATHFINDER STICKS arrive on D.Z.

0045 - GLIDERS arrive on L.Z., but are widely dispersed.

0050 - BN MAIN BODY - Time of 1st DROP on D.Z.

Place: DZ

0020 - Two Recce parties of 8th Para Bn were dropped on D.Z.  Slight opposition was met at R.V. which was quickly overcome and one German killed.  One German on a bicycle was taken prisoner.

0045 - O.C. Recce Party saw gliders come over very widely dispersed.  He was only able to locate two of them.

0050 - Saw main body arrive and states that aircraft were flying in every direction at different altitudes and all flying well above dropping speed.

0120 - C.O. arrived at R.V. and situation was as follows.  There were about 30 men present and one R.E. Jeep and trailer.  It was reported by Recce Party that Bn appeared to be very widely dispersed and that no container A/C had dropped on D.Z.

Note  The R.V. signal was a red and green verey light put up at frequent intervals which could be seen a considerable distance away.  Actually it was seen on RANVILLE D.Z.

0145 - Sgt. Fesq of F.S.P. was sent into TOUFFREVILLE to get information from the local inhabitants.  He reported that TROARN was held and also ESCOVILLE and SANNERVILLE.  The prisoner was also interrogated and he confirmed the statements of the local inhabitants.  He reported that the Fmn in TROARN was a mobile coy with half-tracks - strength of about 200 and that all main rds were covered by MG fire.  During this period elements of the Bn were arriving slowly at the R.V. and there was considerable M.G. fire on the D.Z.  Everybody reported that they had been fired on on the way to the R.V.

0330 - Situation as follows:-

Bn Strength

11 officers and about 130 ORs.  1 Officer and 2 ORs were wounded and 6 ORs had D.Z. injuries and were not in a condition to fight.  The C.O. was wounded in the hand.

Details strength was:-

0300 - C.O. appreciated situation as follows:-

1.  From reports from Recce Party it appeared that remainder of Bn had dropped to the north of the D.Z. in area RANVILLE and LE MESNIL.

2.  That Bn was not strong enough to capture TROARN and that we had no R.E. assistance to destroy the bridge.

3.  That we had sufficient strength and explosives to destroy the bridge at BURES which was of single span type and could be destroyed without much technical assistance.

4.  That if a position was taken up in area X rds 146695 and track running east to BURES sufficient force could be collected to attack TROARN later in the day from the north.

Therefore the plan was as follows:-

1.  Strong fighting patrol of 1 Pl from "C" coy would move to TROARN to make a recce and report on defences at west end of town.

2.  Remainder of Bn would move to area X rds 153700 leaving two dets P.I.A.T.s and covering force in area X rds 146695 to cover any movement of enemy north, and to guide any stragglers to Bn posn.

3.  1 Offr and 2 ORs to remain at R.V. till first light to guide any stragglers who may have arrived at R.V. after Bn had left.

0400 - Bn moved off.

0430 - Bn arrived at posn X tracks 153700.  Recce patrol sent off at once to recce BURES and another I.O. and Maj. Wilson to recce northern approaches to TROARN for purpose of attacking it.

0500 - Capt. Shoppee who had been detailed as Trowbridge Party arrived at BURES.  He had landed at BRIQUEVILLE 173722 and moved straight to BURES which he found unoccupied and recce'ed bridges.  At 0545 hrs he met R.E. party and reported he also met recce patrol from Bn and a runner was dispatched to bring up pl for protection of R.E. party and Jeeps landed with R.E. stores.

0530 - Lt. Thompson reported to Bn HQ.  He stated that he had landed on the RANVILLE D.Z. with the Mortars and M.M.Gs.  He landed at 0100 hrs and collected 3 M.M.G. dets. and 3 with 2 Mortars and 3 M.M.Gs. and some 50 O.Rs. mainly from "A" coy.  At 0200 hrs he left DZ with the object of making for TROARN.  In RANVILLE he met a Frenchman who said he would act as a guide and he moved via RANVILLE - LE MESNIL X rds to rd junc 140704 where he met at 0450 Maj. Roseveare R.E. and 1 Offr. and 20 OR.s of the Bn and a party of R.E.s.  Lt. Thompson had 1 Offr casualty with him.  Maj. Roseveare took command of the party and ordered them to hold a firm base on the rd. junc. as he had no idea where the Bn was.  He with a party of R.E.s was going to try to blow the bridge at TROARN.  Lt. Thompson organised the defence of the rd. junc. then moved down the road to make a recce, when he met the force at X rds 147695 who directed him to Bn H.Q.  The C.O. directed him to bring his force to the Bn area and it arrived at 0615 hrs.

0630 - P.I.A.T. det. at X rds 147695 reported six half-track vehs moving on rd TROARN - LE MESNIL and approaching their posn.  They opened fire and scored hits on all six vehs causing their crews to dismount and take up posn on the far side of the rd.  A fire fight then ensued and after a spirited action the enemy withdrew with their casualties leaving 3 dead who were identified as 21 Pz Div and six half-tracks, four of which were inadequately destroyed as they were recovered by the enemy that night.

0900 - Patrol arrived back from TROARN.  Patrol comd stated that he had moved to TROARN Sta. and was fired on from the high ground to the south of the Sta.  Patrol could not get on and lay up and observed half-track vehs moving north on TROARN - LE MESNIL rd and TROARN - BANNEVILLE rd.  C.O. then appreciated that most of mobile coy had probably left TROARN and that as soon as R.E. party were finished with BURES bridges TROARN bridge could be dealt with.

1000 - Capt. Juckes R.E. reported to Bn HQ that bridges had been blown at 0915 and that he thought that TROARN br. had also been blown.  He also stated that there was an A Tk gun and Jeep and a glider and 3 casualties in the river.  C.O. went to BURES.  An attempt was made to extract the A Tk gun but this was found to be impossible.

1200 - R.E.s returned from BURES and it was decided to send R.E. party with Jeep and explosives and one strong pl into TROARN to blow bridge or, if already blown, to widen gap.  Remainder of Bn would move to rd junc. 140704.  No words had been received of patrol that had gone to recce northern approaches to TROARN.  Force to blow bridge at TROARN was to move via BURES and then down axis of road south to TROARN.

1230 - O.C. "A" coy and Sigs Offr. reported to Bn HQ.  They had been dropped some 5 miles south of the D.Z.  They brought one man with them.  Maj. Wilson's patrol arrived back at the same time.  Maj. Wilson stated that he had met no opposition to the north of TROARN, but on moving further west down rly. line they ran into a strong German posn at 159678 which pinned them down by fire.  When they started to withdraw the I.O. moved by a different route from the remainder of the party and has not been seen since.

1300 - Bn moved to new posn and force moved to TROARN.

1330 - O.C. "C" coy arrived with 4 offrs and 51 ORs.  He met Bn at 143702.  He stated that he had been landed on RANVILLE DZ and gathered together 51 members of the Bn.  He saw in the distance the green verey lights being fired at the Bn R.V. and decided to make straight for them.  His route took him through HEROUVILLETTE where they ran into the enemy and had to fight their way through the village.  Force suffered 6 casualties.

Place: 140704

1400 - Bn in area rd junc 140704 and Bn disposed in following areas:-

1700 - Lt. Brown returned from TROARN.  He stated that they had met a little opposition in TROARN which had been dealt with and the R.E.s had increased the gap in the bridge to 40 feet.  7 prisoners were brought back from a M.G. post which was attacked.  They were identified as 21 Pz Div.

1740 - Attack made on "B" coy posn by 5 A.F.V.s.  Attack beaten off and one enemy 6-ton truck full of stores captured.

1800 - Strength of Bn approx 17 Offrs 300 O.Rs.  Weapons  Bn very short of L.M.Gs.  2 x 3" mortars and one captured German.  3 M.M.Gs.  6 P.I.A.Ts.  Sigs  2 x 68 sets.  4 x 18 sets which allowed comn with coys.  By 2000 hrs line was laid to all coys.

During the night D/D+1 local patrols were sent out.  No contact made with enemy except for snipers and small patrols.  Bn concentrated on getting well dug in.

7th June 1944

0830 - Elements of Armoured Recce Regt began to arrived in the Bn area.  Lt. Col. Stewart liaised with C.O. and arranged that 8th Bn. would provide protection for them at night.  Mortars ranged in on plain N.W. of TOUFFREVILLE and established O.P.s.  Bn got well dug in.  It was reported that Lt. Cooper and 1 Pl "C" coy were at Div H.Q.  Recce patrol to BURES to see if held and to report whether it was possible to salvage A Tk gun and Jeep from river.  Patrol reported impossible to salvage A Tk gun but they brought back a Sgt of the 9th Bn. who reported that there were 6 casualties from a wrecked A/C outside BASSENVILLE 1870 in a farm at 194708.  C.O. decided to bring them in that night.

1600 - Armoured Recce reported that an S.P. gun at    was giving them trouble and would we deal with it.  O.C. "A" coy was detailed for the task with 1 pl.  By the time he reached posn of S.P. gun it had withdrawn so he pushed on to recce ESCOVILLE which he found to be clear of enemy.  Patrol returned about 2100 hrs with an enemy 6-ton truck filled with petrol and oil.

2100 - R.S.M. 13th Bn informed us that TROARN was lightly held and that a strong fighting patrol could carry out a successful raid.  Following patrols took place on night D+1/D+2.

1) Fighting patrol of "C" coy to TROARN.  Strength - 1 coy.

2) Fighting patrol of "B" coy to cut TROARN - BANNEVILLE road and recce enemy posns.  Strength - 1 Offr 15 O.Rs.

3) Strong patrol to bring back wounded from farm at BASSENVILLE.  Strength - C.O. 3 Offrs. 1 Pl "A" coy, Mortar pl, M.G. pl.  Total - 4 Offrs 60 O.R.s. and two Jeeps.  Reason for the strength of the patrol was that the Jeeps could not go any further than BURES since bridges were blown and it would be necessary to carry the wounded some 3 miles.

Results of patrols night D+1/D+2

1) Fighting patrol "C" coy under command of Maj. Hewetson attacked TROARN from the north and entered the town at the church at 166679 and ran into heavy M.G. fire at west end of village from posts and a tank and armoured car.  Casualties were inflicted on the enemy before they were forced to withdraw as firing started from most of the house in the village.  Our casualties 3 O.R.s wounded.

2) Patrol had difficulty in negotiating very thick country and was late in reaching road.  1 enemy m/c and rider destroyed at 145675.  No casualties.

3) 5 stretcher cases, 1 walking wounded and 2 unwounded O.R.s were brought back.  No incidents to report.

8th June 1944 D+2

Mortar O.P. locates 8 gun A.A. Bty in area 1168 and 1268.  Mortars and M.G.s open fire and by the end of the day 3 A.A. guns had ceased firing.  Enemy retaliated with S.P. guns - no casualties.  Daylight recce patrols continue in BOIS DE BAVENT and close country to S. and S.W. of Bn posns.

Two long distance patrols were briefed for the following tasks:-

Patrol No.1  Capt. Shoppee and 2 O.Rs. - Task - to cut TROARN - ARGENCES road and bring back any information about enemy movement.

Patrol No.2  Lt. McClaine-Cross and 2 O.Rs. - Task - to cut CAGNY - CAEN rd and bring back any information about enemy movements.

Both patrols left our own lines at approx 1830 hrs.

Patrolling for night 8/9 Jun

1) Fighting patrol to TROARN - Strength 2 Offrs 40 O.Rs. "C" coy O.C. - Maj. Hewetson.  Task to ascertain strength of enemy at level crossing 159677.

2) Strong recce patrol to cut TROARN - BANNEVILLE rd.  Strength 1 Offr 10 O.Rs "B" coy.

Results of patrols night 8/9 Jun

1) Patrol moved south on to rly line and then S.W. along rly line and ran into enemy patrol.  After short exchange of fire enemy withdrew having suffered some casualties.  Patrol pushed on and came under heavy M.G. fire from houses at rly crossing.  Enemy fire returned but it was not possible to push home attack owing to strength of enemy.  Valuable information gained as to enemy dispositions.  Our casualties two slightly wounded.

9th June 1944

Place: 140703

0600 - On the rly line with German Patrol with M.G. - this position covered by 2nd M.G. - 3rd M.G. on rd into TROARN from N. - 4th M.G. - Strong point.  Strong point holds considerable number of men.  Tks moving west through TROARN all this time.

0600 - CAPT. SCAIFE Patrol to BAVENT.  In town ATk gun sighted in the town centre.  3 M.M.G. strong points round it.  2 x 81mm mortars N. of the town & possible Rocket gun.

1000 - Airborne Arty firing on BREVILLE AREA.

1450 - B Coy. rt forward O.P. of Coy shelled.  Enemy ranged posn with S.P. Gun.  MGs in woods.  131702 and 129695.

1510 - Local GAMEKEEPER reports.  Bridges in TROARN repaired.

1530 - Seaborne Party arrived on foot under LT MILLER.

2110 - Maplay Code compromised.

10th June 1944

Place: 140703

0600 - Casualty reports.  Offrs & O.Rs.  See APPENDIX A.

0710 - Armd Recce reports.  Bty Mortars at 107695.  4 Mk 4's at 1169.  Both shelling woods area 1371.

0855 - Mortars engaging 6 AA/MGs on DZ.

1045 - B Coy being shelled.

1130 - Mortars report 8 AA guns now on DZ.  Two have now been knocked out & casualties believed in the others.

1510 - Highland troops move into area during afternoon 10 June 44 and night 10/11 June and moving off 11 June 44.

1700 - Convoy of approx 30 enemy tpt and A/Cs escorted by 3-5 Pz KPFW IV tanks.  Seen moving west in direction of SANNERVILLE.

2100 - A Coy moved to posn.  Rd junc 150692.

11th June 1944

Place: 140703

1805 - 4 S.P. guns into posn near LIROSE.  Shelling Bn Area.  S.P's were mainly S to EMIEVILLE.

2115 - A Coy take TOUFFREVILLE and 5/7th consolidate area.

2115 - Message from Major Gen Gale congratulating troops on their magnificent show.

12th June 1944

Place: 140703

1010 - Mortar O.P. reports 2 enemy S.P. guns knocked out on DZ by ATk guns of 51st.  Suspected enemy [hy] AA bty approx 086659.

1715 - B Coy patrol to LE MESNIL reports movement in area LE MESNIL to BURES.  Works proceeding on both the bridges.  No S.P. guns.  Enemy patrol east side of river through and onto the Rly.  Snipers report strength of enemy patrol 10 men and 1 MG moves up the river over track bridge and onto rly, possible to move to BURES by road 167704.

13th June 1944

Place: 140703

1050 - 5 enemy tks moving S from EMIEVILLE.

1430 - A Coy patrol to BURES reports suspected MG at 154705.  Work proceeding on brick bridge only.

2005 - Mortar OP reports 6 Canadian [RAMC?] in wood 133693.  Enemy shelling E of EMIEVILLE.

2200 - Mortar OP reports area 1170 - 1169 - 1168 held by some 20 enemy tks and SP guns.

14th June 1944

Place: 140703

1500 - Bn moved to area 140719.

15th June 1944

Place: 140703

0630 - A Coy patrols report at track junction 155723 came under fire of strong standing patrol approx 20 men, 2 x MG 34s on either flank.

2110 - GONNEVILLE-SUR-MERVILLE is to be heavily bombed at 2130 hrs.

16th June 1944

Place: 140703

0450 - Bn posn mortared for approx 15 mins.

0455 - Bn DF task begins.

0520 - A Coy attacked in force.

0615 - Tk attack approaching Canadians with inf support.

0620 - FOO putting down fire W of BAVENT.

0645 - Enemy advancing on S side of wood 143714 in W direction.

0715 - 9 Pl attacked from S; enemy repulsed.

0735 - 9 Pl being attacked on its flank.

0805 - Bn area mortared at intervals.

0815 - 9 Pl again attacked.  Attack moving round towards Gordons.

0830 - One American SP gun (M10) fired down road 148720.

0900 - Bn area mortared intermittently.

0930 - ESCOVILLE clear of enemy.

1015 - German SP gun firing from 100x in front of A coy.

1030 - Bn area still being shelled.

1155 - Approx strength of enemy attacking A coy 2 coys.

1315 - A coy attacked again.

1515 - C coy + A coy put in counter-attack to neutralise SP gun on A coy front.

1900 - Enemy contained on all fronts.  No SP gun knocked out.

1930 - Counter attack has caused enemy to withdraw from our front.

17th June 1944

Place: 140703

0600 - Casualties of Offrs + OR's see Appendix A.

0815 - Left Bn area to R.V. in Brickworks.

0900 - Moved to new area 123724.

1500 - Bn in posn.

2045 - Enemy laid smoke CUVERVILLE Road.

18th June 1944

Place: 123724

1200 - O.P. established 117723.

2100 - Enemy Mortaring line of bridge 129716.

19th June 1944

Place: 123724

0600 - Own arty shelling woods area Escoville.

1305 - Ref 115733 shelled by enemy.

1610 - HEROUVILLETTE shelled.

20th June 1944

Place: 123724

1130 - Bn left post.

1230 - Arrived at 113715.

23rd June 1944

Place: 113715

1500 - Left Rest area 105736.

1815 - In posn.

1900 - Area being shelled.

25th June 1944

Place: 105736

1245 - Bn leaves area 140723.

1350 - Bn in position 140723.

26th June 1944

Place: 140723

1415 - Two separate mortar attacks each 20 minute duration.

1515 - Stray shelling lasting 5 mins wood 1371 - Rocket projected.

1600 - C Coy patrol reports M.G. posn firing at 148720.  This arc of fire is straight down the road.  Houses at 148724 seen to be lightly occupied.  5cm mortar area 149719.  81mm mortar suspected area 149719.

27th June 1944

Place: 140723

0530 - C coy patrol reports enemy patrol heard moving from houses 147724 to wire in gully 144723, movement behind houses.  2 MGs started firing from 147723 and 147722.

0545 - Army Maplay and RA Glider Regs compromised up to and incl 29 Jun 44.

2000 - B coy patrol:- object, to see if farm buildings 148724 are held and obtain prisoners.  As party was standing around house alarm was given.  In getting out of farm enemy observed patrol and both sides opened fire.  Result - 1 certain casualty enemy.  No prisoners.  Infm LMGs at points 148720, 148722, 147724.

28th June 1944

Place: 140723

0600 - Bn patrol reports:- MG posns at 147725, 146724, 147722, 148720.  5cm mortar 148720.  Enemy in house 153722 in small numbers.  Casualties Offrs and O.R.s see Appendix A.

Month and year: July 1944

Commanding Officer : Lt. Col. A.S. Pearson

1st July 1944

Place: 140723

Sporadic shelling.  Amendment to No Q 160.

2100 - Infm shows that "TRIANGLE" is held by battalion 46 GAF Jaeger Regt.

2330 - Enemy reported as having mobile reserve within striking distance.  Attack not expected on this front.  C coy patrol by day Cpl Harms + 3 men.  Object to find flank of enemy and confirm posns.  Patrol achieved object.  Argylls on rt.  Ran phone line 2000x into wood from 7 Pl. S.E. for standing patrol.

2nd July 1944

Sporadic shelling and mortaring: usual day.

Night 2300 - Cpl Harris led 7th Para patrol from 7 Pl posn to recce for attack for 12th Para Bn on MG posn, LE PRIEURE & 2 houses.

Night 0100 - Patrol successful: no enemy encountered.  Message re 2 Frenchmen who might endeavour to cross our lines.

3rd July 1944

Quiet day.  BLACK WIDOW reported operating in area.

4th July 1944

Bn move to Res Area.

5th July 1944

C.O. addressed bn on war situation.  Bde comd Brigadier Hill D.S.O. M.C. addressed all officers.  Reinforcements of 5 officers and 92 ORs arrived from R.H.Q.

7th July 1944

1000 - Low flying attack by M.E's.  3 casualties.  Having spoke to all officers Div. Comd. Maj. Gen. Gale D.S.O. O.B.E. M.C. walked round the Bn area.

8th July 1944

For casualties of Officers and O.R.'s see Appx A dated w/c July 8th.

9th July 1944

1100 - Bn church parade.

10th July 1944

The Bde Comd. Brigadier Hill D.S.O. M.C. inspected the bn and was very pleased with the result.

11th July 1944

2300 - Warning order for Bn move on next day to relieve 7th Para Bn.

12th July 1944

0800 - Bn O Group assembled.  Move orders issued.  Recce group moved off.  Brigadier Poett visited Bn.

Place: 140719

1500 - Bn in position u/c 5 Para Bde.  Sporadic shelling.

13th July 1944

Sporadic mortaring of posn all day.  Total 5 wounded.  Bde Comd 3rd Para Bde Brigadier Hill D.S.O. M.C. visited Bn.

14th July 1944

2 Polish deserters from 10 coy 857 Regt came in.  Gave details of enemy posns.  Mortars & M.M.Gs carried out harassing (N.B. This was laid down as future daily policy).  A coy relieve B coy by 1000 hrs.  Night C coy patrol rt. flank.  Nothing to report.  A coy wiring their front.

15th July 1944

Place: 147729

P.I.A.T's carried out successful shoot on houses to left of A coy posn. and on M.G. posn.

Place: 147720

Night - 2 officers 1 O.R. from 9th Bn attacked.  A & C coy carried out local patrols.  1 casualty.

16th July 1944

Enemy attempted to cut in on 18 set frequency.  Warning that enemy had built up Arty on Bn front.  Lt. Col. Pearson D.S.O. M.C. went to address by General Montgomery.

Night - Local patrols by A coy and C coy.  B coy erected wire on A coy front.

17th July 1944

Visits from Lt. Col. Walford 5th Seaforths, Lt. Col. Harris 2nd R.U.R.

1800 - Minefield laid.  Mk V.  Trace sent to Seaforths.

Night - Patrols locally by A & C coy.

18th July 1944

0530 - Heavy stream of British heavy bombers smashed enemy posns.

0600 - Fortresses & Mediums followed.  Heavy arty concentration.

0815 - Big battle began, which by wireless intercept seemed to go well.

1545 - Message that Devons were going to take over from unit on right.

2000 - Relief took place.  Message from Bde that no S/A fire at A/C to rear of line 3000" from front line, and fwd only.  G.O.C. visited the Bn and explained object of battle.

Night - Heavy harassing fire by Arty, mortars and MMG and S.A. of fwd coys.  Fwd coys also patrol to keep contact with enemy in case of withdrawal.  B coy had two fighting patrols ready.  Patrols reported enemy still in position, enemy returning fire.

19th July 1944

Two Poles deserted through C coy posn.  Confirmed known enemy posns.  Maj. Gen. Urquhart G.O.C. 1st Air. Div. visited Bn.  C coy 2 casualties thro' enemy shellfire.

Night - Local coy patrols A & C coys.  Nothing to report.

20th July 1944

1400 - Slight mortaring and shelling.  Message that 7th Bn would relieve at 1500 hrs 21st July.  Thunderstorm lasting all afternoon flooding trenches.  Morale high.  Rum rations issued.

Night - Local patrols by fwd coys.  No report.  More rain.

21st July 1944

0900 - More rain.  Area completely flooded.  Move order issued.

1600 - Relief complete.

1730 - Bn arrived in rest area, very wet, after an uncomfortable march over road full of mud and tpt.  60 men rest camp.

22nd July 1944

Coys spent day cleaning up.  15 reinforcements para volunteers interviewed by C.O. Lt Col Pearson D.S.O. M.C.  For casualties of officers and O.R's see Appx A w/c 22nd July.

23rd July 1944

Further interior economy.  Lt Oliver arrived: attached to B coy.

24th July 1944

Weather improved and coys beginning to get clean.  50 men on roadmaking at Bde HQ.  Inspection by all coys.  60 men return from rest camp Lt Clarke posted to Bn.  A coy.

25th July 1944

19 men to rest camp.  Bde Conference.

26th July 1944

Slight enemy bombing during night.

27th July 1944

Message received that arrangements of Conference of 25th July cancelled.  Warning order that Bn was to move to line on 28th.  Inspection of Bn by C.O. Lt. Col. A. Pearson D.S.O. M.C.  B.M. informs C.O. that Bn will take over from 1st Cdn Para Bn at 1030 next day.  'O' Group recce.

28th July 1944

Place: 138716

0930 - Bn left rest area.  1130 Take over complete.  Posns adjusted.  2 casualties from mortars.

Night - enemy a/c active

29th July 1944

New positions dug.  R.E's minelifting in area.  Shelling and mortaring.  1 R.E. killed.  6 Bn casualties.  Demonstration of 'Whurtzlegun'.  Slight enemy air activity.  For list of casualties of 2 ORs see Appx A w/c 29 July.

30th July 1944

Continued reorganization of Bn posn.  Orders received to take over left pl of 9th Para Bn at 1600 next day.  R.E. continued minelifting.  Lt Col Sinclair C.A.E. visited Bn and discussed reinforcements.  Capt Shoppee took recce patrol fwd of C coy from A coy.

31st July 1944

0530 - Bde conference.  Bn to move 1200 to take over from 7 Black Watch.

0615 - 'O' group conference.

0800 - C.O. moved to recce new area.  C.O. 4 Commando having arrived to recce 1½ hours earlier.  Coy recce gps join C.O.

1030 - ¾ hr later Bn moved.

1400 - Take over complete.  G.O.C. visited Bn.  Enemy shelling and mortaring 5 casualties.

1230 - [?] area shelled 1 killed, 1 wounded.

2100 - Bde Comd. Bde Hill D.S.O. M.C. visited bn and agreed to readjustment of bn positions.  Bn digging in.  191 Fd Regt in sp.

Month and year: August 1944

Commanding Officer : Lt. Col. A.S. Pearson

1st August 1944

Slight mortaring of positions.  Own mortars replied.

1900 - Bn adjusted positions: completed by 1600 hrs.  Lts Carden, Miller and Dolleymore and Capt Murray RAMC joined bn from U.K.  C coy patrol under Sgt Dudley [?] with 2 men contacted enemy in wood to left front.  Enemy appeared to be engaged in domestic duties.  Also found some slit trenches which showed signs of recent occupation.

2210 - Own airbursts somewhat close in to 'C' coy posn.

Night 0200 - Sharp shelling of Bn posn.

2nd August 1944

0800 - Bde Comd and Tank Comd recced bn area for c/o posns.

0900 - The pl from Corps Def. Coy. arrived and goes to A Coy.

1110 - A coy reported smoke shells in area.

1730 - Two patrols in wood 'C' coy Sgt McIllharghy & 1 man object to recce enemy posns.  Enemy spotted digging in.  Patrol seen withdraw under cover of fire.

Place: 148697

'A' coy patrol Sgt Mayhew & 2 men: object to recce enemy posns in wood as 'C' coy.  Found disused sec posn.  Patrol was seen by enemy sentry who was probably killed.  Enemy mortared C coy.  1 killed 1 wounded.  Mortars return fire as is now permanent policy whenever enemy open up.

Place: 153699

Night 2330 - B coy patrol Lt Oliver and 5.  Object to recce enemy posns on rt. front.  M.G. 42 posn spotted & grenades thrown.  Returned and went out further to our right.  Enemy in occupation in unknown numbers.

Night 0200 - Shelling of Bn area.

3rd August 1944

Sporadic shelling.  1 man wounded.

1800 to 2000 - Concentration of arty, mortars, and MMG on enemy.  Little reply.  M.M.Gs got answer in S.A. fire.  2 casualties.

2030 - Leaflets were supposed to be dropped by arty.  Something went wrong.

Place: 152698

2000 - Patrols from 'A' and 'C' coy.  Sgt Mayhew & 1 offr & 1 pte.  Object to recce for enemy pl in wood & watch reaction to leaflets.  Found enemy M.G., coy mail and equipment in recently evacuated enemy sec. area.  Sgt McIllharghy and 2 moved into wood some distance and contacted sentry.  Further observation then impossible.

Night 2330 - B coy patrol.  Lt Dorran and 4 men.  Object to find gap in enemy line recced by Lt Oliver last night.

Place: 153697 and 151701

0330 - Penetrated line and returned.  Also reported sounds of digging and green vereys and white tracer fired as recognition to a/c.  Enemy air activity.  3 bombs fell in A coy area.  1 unexploded parachute torpedo.

4th August 1944

1000 - Message that until further notice Stand to 2200 - 2300, 0515 - 0615.

Place: 147700

1430 - Lt Clarke and 2 men 'C' coy patrol into woods on left boundary.  Spotted probable enemy standing patrol.  Drew fire.

Place: 150698

1430 - 'A' coy patrol.  Lt Dolleymore and 2 men met enemy posn.  Drew fire.

1730 to 2000 - Arty on fwd enemy thickened with mortar and M.M.G.  Leaflets fired by arty 2130.

Night 0100 - Propaganda by loudspeaker.  'B' coy patrol.  Lt Oliver and 8 men left 0045 to penetrate enemy where gap found last night, to capture P.W.  Found gap now occupied heard sounds of digging, also of horse and cart.

5th August 1944

0500 - Arty, mortar and M.M.G. on enemy F.D.L.

0900 - A coy patrol Lt Lutley & 10 men met strong enemy post in wood (2 M.Gs).  1 enemy killed, casualties 1 man missing and Lt Lutley wounded.  1 cas mortar fire during the day.  For list of casualties of officers and O.Rs see dated w/e 5 Aug.

Night 2350 - B coy patrol Lt Carden and 4 men object to recce posn where Lt Oliver reported enemy the previous night.  It confirmed posn and pinpointed two trenches.

Night 0030 - A coy reported horse and cart to L. front.  Arty fired on line of BURES road.  I. sec reports that enemy main defence line around BURES.

Night 0100 - P.O.W. report.  'A' coy report enemy patrol on BURES road.

Night 0110 - Further report of 4 men moving right across fwd pl. posn and some enemy still in road and wood area.

6th August 1944

0130 - 'C' coy patrol Lt Miller and 5 men into left of wood to ascertain if enemy in area between two enemy posns 147700 and 151699.  Area N of main track found clear.  Returned 0900

0850 - Shelling on L and R by S.P's.

Place: 145707

1800 - Lt. Miller again went into wood area and contacted sec. posn.  Shelling, mortaring and a little smoke put down on bn posn during the evening.

Night 2300 - A coy standing patrol of 3 men under Lt Francis at 151698.

Night 0500 - Nothing to report on return.  Lincolns carried out 2 raids on bn left.

Night 0345 to 0405 - Own arty, H.E. and Smoke on enemy F.D.L's.

7th August 1944

0320 - Bn visited by A.D.M.S. Col MacEwan D.S.O. C.B.E. M.C. T.D. and later by G.O.C. Maj Gen Gale D.S.O. O.B.C. M.C. attended by Brigadier Hill D.S.O. M.C.

1315 - S.P. shelling killed 1 man.  2 Polish deserters came in thro' Lt Dolleymore's pl.  Stated they were from 2 coy ? Bn 858 regt.  Bn came into line 2 days ago.  Coy str 100.  10 M.G. 2 20 M.P's per coy.  50% Poles in coys.  Details of mining.  Our arty and mortars keep below ground all day.  Our fighting patrols good.  Enemy patrolling limited to standing patrols.  Occasional recce.  Kitchens hit recently.  Casualties not high in last few days.  Propaganda broadcast not heard.

1500 - Bde conference for C.O. and Adjt.  Sharp shelling.

2000 - 2i/c hit.  1 other casualty.  C.O. [?] to Div. Conference at 2100 hrs.

2300 - Heavy bombers on area to S.  Cdn attack starts.

Place: 150698

A coy standing patrol of 3 men under Lt Dorran out 2300 - 0445 reported enemy very jittery firing mortars M.G's & grenades at no definite target intermittently.  Enemy sec at 151699 & M.G. 153697.

Place: 147699

C coy patrol of 3 men under Lt Hacker at 2300-0515.  Nothing to report.

8th August 1944

1145 - S.P. fire on rt. fwd area.  Own a/c bomb to S. for an hour from 1230.  Bde Comd Brigadier Hill D.S.O. M.C. came to lunch.

1345 - M.M.G. Arty & Mortars fire on reported enemy feeding point.

1415 - C.O. went to recce new area.

1715 - S.P. and Mortar fire on Bde area.

1810 - S.P. on Bn area.

1915 - Own airburst on bn area.

2130 - Movement of vehicles on BURES - TROARN ROAD.  Arty engaged.  C.O. to Bde Conference.

2045 - 9th Bn Coy comds visit coys.

2200 - Bn 'O' group conference.  C.O. Lt-Col Pearson D.S.O. M.C. issued warning order for move on BURES in the event of enemy withdrawal, also alternatively for move to reserve area.

Night 2300 - Lt Carden and 3 men of B coy patrol to keep contact with the enemy.  M.G. fire heard 0115, - S.P. fire 0145.

Night 0215 - M.G. fire to left 0150.  Patrol report posns at 154696 (strong sec with automatics) slit trenches 152697 and 153698 M.G. 153699.

9th August 1944

0530 - Lt Miller and 3 men patrol into wood on left.  Sec. confirmed in posn at 151699.

0815 - Returned: no casualties.

0930 - Relief began.  Bn moved back to area 128703 Bn in posn 1200 hrs.

1200 - C.O. to Bde patrol conference.  On arrival at new area No.1 Troop 3 Para Sqn R.E. came u/c the Bn.

1745 - Bn digging in.  C.O. to Bde Conference re Fire Plan.

1900 - Conference in Bn.

2015 - B.M. visited C.O.

2130 - D.A.A. & Q.M.G. of 3 Para Bde visited Bn.  Quiet night.

10th August 1944

0830 - Preparatory briefing of Lt Oliver for fighting patrol tonight.

0900 - C.O. took Sgt Dudley for interview with Bde Comd.

1030 - F.O.O. party from 150 Fd Regt arrived and having been interviewed by the C.O. were taken to their coys.  B.M. arrived to see C.O.  Coys on lectures by R.E's on minelifting.

1600 - Enemy shelling just in Bn area, caused 2 casualties.

1730 - 'O' Group conference.  The C.O. Lt. Col. A.S. Pearson D.S.O. M.C. issued orders for attack on BURES.

2030 - C.O. went to Bde.  Lt Miller took coy reps to recce F.U.P.

11th August 1944

1030 - C.O. went to Bde.  Lt Miller took Mortar pl comd to recce posns for counter mortar fire during Ph II of PADDLE.

1430 - Lt Phillips (Q.M.) & Lt Phillips and 15 men arrived from England.  Mortar pl dug positions recced in morning and ranged.

2140 - [7?] N.C.O's on mines course under 2 E's.  Enemy shell track behind Bn area.  No casualties.

12th August 1944

0900 - Rehearsal of Ph I of PADDLE.  Bn task 1¾ hrs to assemble.  Considerable reorganization followed.

1230 - C.O. went to Bde.

Night 0320 - Enemy shelling near bn area.  No casualties.

13th August 1944

1015 - C.O. went to conference at Division.  After midday he addressed the officers of the bn on the subject of discipline, turn out and the question of the present outlook of the bn resulting from the news of being in an Allied Para Army and not having gone home yet.

1630 - C.O. went to Bde with Major Terrell.

14th August 1944

Bn HQ. fully installed in new position.

1215 - The C.O. Lt Col A.S. Pearson D.S.O. M.C. took 3 candidates for immediate commission.  A/C.S.M. Hutchinson, A/Sgt Horton & A/Sgt Dudley for interview by G.O.C.

Night - Small enemy bombing raid to S.E.

15th August 1944

1200 - Lt. Col A. Young D.S.O. R.A.M.C. visited the bn.

1800 - C.O. inspected A coy and Mortar Pl & at 1900 hrs he went to Bde H.Q.

16th August 1944

0930 - C.O. inspected B coy and Bn HQ & M.M.G. Pl.  Coys on route marches and training.

Night - During the evening of the 16th the Bn was ordered to stand by to move at 2½ hrs notice; previously it had been 10 hrs notice.

2200 - On receipt of message Bn O Group called and final details of plan for advance on BURES arranged.

2330 - Bn put at immediate notice for a short period but stood down to ½hr again.

17th August 1944

0220 - B.M. rang up and gave "SPANNER" for 0300 hrs and the Bn was turned out.

0300 - S.L. crossed by leading coy; C.O. having gone ahead to Bde H.Q.

0400 - Order given to move forward to start line from F.U.P.  Night was very dark and route across country difficult.  Leading coy - "C" coy - lost one pl but went over start line as soon as 9th Bn were in posn.

0530 - "BIRCH" - first objective - taken and no opposition.

0600 - "LARCH" crossed.

0630 - All objectives in our hands.  Fighting patrols sent out forward and to flanks.  No enemy met and no shelling.  "A" coy commanded by Capt. Shoppee.  "C" coy's fwd patrol reached area BASSENVILLE after crossing R.DIVES by rly br, now blown and impassable by vehs.  There were no crossings available to vehs and R.E. party under Capt Fox set to work to construct a ferry.  Bn H.Q. set up at track and rly crossing in BURES.  "A" and "B" coys consolidated around Bn HQ area.  Patrols reported ROUCHEVILLE and TROARN clear of enemy.  "C" coy moved up to high ground in area BUTTE DE BOIS L'ABBÉ.  Once this high ground was secure at about 1000 hrs remainder of Bn crossed R.DIVES and made for main rd at a point just east of ST. SAMPSON.  "B" coy was leading and at 1300 hrs approx met opposition in the farm buildings on the rising ground above ST. RICHER.  "B" coy deployed to the right but could not get round the enemy.  "A" coy was then committed on the left and after several attempts succeeded in dislodging the enemy.  Enemy strength approx 40 men with 4 L.M.G.s and light mortars.  It later appeared that this must have been a covering screen.  Casualties were 2 Offrs, 1 O.R. killed, 9 wounded.  1 Offr wounded.

1600 - "A" and "B" coys pushed on through village of LA CHOLERIE.  Considerable difficulty had been experienced so far because we had had no mortars or M.M.Gs, tpt being not across the river, but now the R.A.P. Jeep arrived together with M.M.G. mortar and reserve amn.  "C" coy then moved through to GOUSTRANVILLE after a sharp spell of shelling, and reported that the enemy had not yet blown the bridge.

1900 - Bn now in posn around CHLLE ST. ANNE.  "C" coy was ordered, if possible, to secure br intact but met strong opposition from M.G. and mortar fire.

2200 - Bn had taken up defensive posns covering bridges.  It was thought that the enemy had left as strong party to cover the blowing of the bridges.  In the hour following the area was subjected to considerable shell and mortar fire and casualties were suffered.  Throughout the M.O. Capt. Murray, dealt with casualties under extreme difficulties.

2330 - Bde Comd visited Bn and ordered fighting patrols to go out before light to discover whether enemy had withdrawn so that in this event the Cdn Bn and the 9th Bn might follow through.  These patrols went out at dawn and reported enemy still in posn.

0500 - Bridge reported blown.

18th August 1944

Bn spent a reasonably quiet day settling into new area.  There was shelling throughout the day, causing a few casualties.  It had been decided to put 9th Bn and Cdn Bn through that night.  2 recce patrols went out: - Lt. Carden to the br on the south which he found clear, but an enemy patrol was reported withdrawing from area of buildings in the vicinity.  "C" coy patrol under Sgt MacIllargey took 3 PW who said that there were 2 Bns in area - one holding br with 2 coys fwd, one in area of DOZULÉ.

2300 - Cdn Bn began a silent night attack to secure river bridges.  Continuous listening watch was kept on wireless and all seemed to be going well.

19th August 1944

0230 - All objectives taken and 9th Bn on their way across to station area.  They also achieved their aim.  Considerable nos of P.W. were passed back through the Bn from the Cdn Bn.  By first light all was clear.  Considerable shelling of Bn area throughout day due possibly to preparations being made for an attack by 5 Para Bde.

20th August 1944

Nothing to report.

2230 - Bn put on ½ hr notice to move.  Lts. Mendham, Webb and Dancey arrive.

21st August 1944

0800 - Reinforcements arrive from England.

1030 - Bn received order to move on ANNEBAULT.  Move was made with "C" coy in the lead.  Mortars bounding within the column.  DOZULÉ was being shelled as the Bn passed through.  Recce reported ANNEBAULT held.

1400 - Leading coy met fire from buildings in area 415013.  After a considerable fight the buildings were occupied but fire again held up the leading troops from area 420013.  "B" coy was then deployed and "C" coy moved round to the left flank under the personal leadership of the C.O.  During this phase there was sporadic shelling of LE BOURG and sharp bursts of S.P. fire on the road in the area of Bn HQ at 412011.  At this time also the enemy put over a new rocket shell estimated from an unexploded shell found later to be 25cm. with a huge blast effect.  One of these fell onto Bn HQ, killing the Sigs Offr, Int. Sgt. and 4 signallers, wounding 6 other men.  Bn HQ "B" party then reformed as Bn HQ.

1900 - After hard fighting "B" coy had improved its posn slightly and "C" coy was astride the road at 420017.  Throughout the battle wireless communications were bad so that it was difficult to maintain touch with coys and mortar fire could not be used.  Arty was out of the question in such close country.  The C.O. then decided to put "A" coy through "C" coy to cut the road to the east.  This was effected by about 2100 hrs.  Thereafter mopping up proceeded and a total of 50 odd PW were sent back.  By dusk the Bn was in posn with "A" coy forward on east road, "C" coy on the north road and "B" coy on the south road.  Bn. H.Q. was estd at 413003.  During the night 5 Bde moved up ready to pass through at dawn.  Total casualties in the Bn were as follows:- Killed 1 Offr and 10 O.R.s., wounded 21, missing 2.

22nd August 1944

0700 - Bn move fwd to take up reserve posn at LA HAIE TONDUE 450018 and spent the day sorting itself out and resting.

23rd August 1944

Bn. still in same location.  Weather turning to rain.  At 1400 hrs C.O. and Adjt. attended a conference at Bde where the plan to put the Bde into a Para role in the ensuing 36 hrs was outlined.  On return arrangements were immediately set on foot and it was found that a total of approx 260 parachutists and 14 fighting offrs could be counted on.  Bn. stood by to move at ½ hrs notice until 0200 hrs 24 Aug when Op. was cancelled.

24th August 1944

0900 - Bn received order to move into a concentration area at 4006.  Tpt. was provided and the C.O. moved off at 1100 hrs to recce area.  Bn. moved off at 1130 hrs and when it had reached ST PIERRE AZIF 4306 it was ordered to debus and move to area GLATIGNY 4506.  Coys were disposed: "A" and "C" fwd on the road, Bn H.Q. in centre, "B" rear.  Food arrived just in time owing exertions of Admin Offr Capt. Kelland.  Bn was ordered to move once again to ST GÂTIEN.  At 1400 hrs the C.O. Lt. Col. Pearson D.S.O. M.C., went ahead with a recce party to see if it was possible to cross the R.TOUQUES in area 4608 and having found a crossing ferried the Bn across.  Bn. then made its way in torrential rain to ST. GÂTIEN which Bn reached at 2200 hrs.  Coys were located as follows "A"  "B"  "C"  HQ.  2 patrols were sent out:- at 2330 under Lt. Miller and 25 0100 hrs under Lt. Dancey to discover if enemy were in posn in area of wood.  No enemy found and local French reported he was withdrawing to BERVILLE-SUR-MER and QUILLEBOEUF to cross the SEINE.  Food arrived and was distributed at approx 0200 hrs.  New Padre Capt. Ogilvy arrived.

25th August 1944

0530 - Bn was ordered to move off as soon as it had fed in general direction of BEUZEVILLE 6409.

0800 - Bn moved off behind 9th Bn and passed through it and SS Bde at 605075.  C.O. was told that BEUZEVILLE was clear and therefore went fwd in a carrier to recce.  On arrival at br 627087 he found it recently blown and concluded that the enemy still held the town.  He therefore directed the Bn round the SS to X rds 640078.  Just before reaching this pt a wireless message was received to the effect that the enemy were on the X rds and within a few mns the leading pl of "B" coy ran into them at about 1200 hrs.  2 pls were sent round the flank and the X rds were cleared.  "C" coy then followed through with the object of reaching the X rds at 645079 and "A" coy, with 2 tanks of the Armoured Recce Regt, made for the rly br at 637081 and secured it.  "C" coy were meeting with a certain amount of resistance from the area of buildings 641075 and "A" coy began to move up the rly with the object of securing the station.  "C" coy then reported that they were being counter attacked but this in fact proved to be a force withdrawing from the south where commandos were operating.  "A" coy was withdrawn and sent down the lane to X rds 649080 supported by tks.  "A" coy reached objective by 2100 hrs approx and Bn then consolidated its posn.  "A" coy area 649080, "B" coy 645079, "C" coy 641075, Bn H.Q. "A", M.M.G., A.Tk X rds 640077, Bn H.Q. "B" and Mortars 636076.  Total prisoners 8.  Casualties 1 Offr Lt. Clarke and 14 O.R.s killed, 1 Offr Maj. Shoppee and 16 O.R.s wounded, 3 O.R.s missing.  R.A.P. dealt with 23 other casualties from S.S. Bdes.

26th August 1944

Bn spent day resting and reorganising.

27th August 1944

Bn still resting.  Church parade in coy areas.  C.O. had conference with all commanders at 1300 hrs. after lecture by B.M. on war situation.

28th August 1944

Decorations awarded as follows:- WS/Lieut Miller T.E.  M.C., WS/Lieut Fry R.N.  M.C., L/Cpl Eaglen H.E.  M.M., Pte Lewis A.  M.M., L/Sgt Littlewood W.E.M.  M.M., L/Sgt Mayhew R.H.  M.M., WS/Sgt Reading A.  M.M., Pte Steven H.  M.M.

29th August 1944

C.O. and Adj to conference re move of Bde back to England.

30th August 1944

Coys handing in kit prior to move on 6 Sept.

31st August 1944

Place: Beuzeville

Preparing for return to U.K.

Month and year: September 1944

Commanding Officer : Lt. Col. A.S. Pearson

4th September 1944

0800 - Marched to embussing point.  Embussed in T.C.Vs at 1100 hrs.  Destination ARROMANCHES where Bn spent night in No.6 Transit Camp.

5th September 1944

Rough weather prevented embarkation.

6th September 1944

0830 - Embarked in T.L.Cs. thence to Liberty Ship s.s. "EMPIRE GAUNTLET".  Sighted land I.O.W. at 1630 hrs.  Voyage smooth and uneventful.  Dropped anchor in the SOLENT, spent night on board.

7th September 1944

0800 - Disembarked SOUTHAMPTON Docks.  Entrained immediately.  Arrived BULFORD 1215 hrs.  Embussed T.C.Vs. arrived TILSHEAD 1300 hrs.

8th September 1944

0900 - Commanding Officer lectured the Bn in the Garrison Cinema, TILSHEAD.

9th September 1944

1500 - Representative Party attended Commanding Officer's wedding at MARDEN.

11th September 1944

Bn leave until 20th, extended until 24th.

30th September 1944

Party of Inf. Rfts to RINGWAY for para training.