National Archives catalogue number WO 171/996.
Abbreviation
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093760 2 i/c A/Adjt A/B Accn Adjt Admn Adv AGRA A/L Amb Amn AOP Armd Arty Att Bde Belg BMRA Bn Br Bty BW Cas C/attack CB CCS Cdn Cdo CE C-in-C CM CO Coln Comd Comn Conc Coy CPO CRA DF Div Ech En Eqpt Est Evac Exp Fd FDS FOO Fwd Gp H HAA HE HF Hosp HQRA Hy i/c Incl Inf Instrs IO LAA LAD LCT LO Lt M MC Med NAAFI Nr Obs Offr OIC OO Op OR Org Pdr Pet Pl Posn Prelim Pt PW Pz Qmr RA RAP Rd Rds Recd Regn Ref Regt Rep Rfts RHQ RM RN RSO RV Sigs Sitrep Smk Sp Sq Sqn SS Sups Svy Tgt Tp Tpt u/c Veh W/draw Wef WL W'Proofing |
Map Reference Second-in-Command Anti-Aircraft Acting Adjutant Airborne Accommodation Adjutant Administration Advance Army Group Royal Artillery Airlanding Ambulance Ammunition Air Observation Post Armoured Artillery Attached Battery Commander Brigade Belgian Brigade Major Royal Artillery Battalion British Battery Black Watch Casualties Counterattack Counter Battery Casualty Clearing Station Canadian Church of England Commander-in-Chief Counter Mortar Commanding Officer Column Command Communication Concentration Company Command Post Officer Commander Royal Artillery Defensive Fire Division / Divisional Echelon Enemy Equipment Establish Evacuate Expended Field Field Dressing Station Forward Observation Officer Forward Gallons Group Highland Heavy Anti-Aircraft High Explosive Harassing Fire Hospital Headquarters Royal Artillery Heavy In-Command Including Infantry Instructions Intelligence Officer Light Anti-Aircraft Light Aid Detachment Landing Craft Tank Liaison Officer Light Mike Movement Control Medium Navy Army Air Force Institute Near Observations Officer Officer in Command Operation Order Operation / Observation Post (upper case) Other Ranks Organisation Pounder Petrol Platoon Position Preliminary Point Prisoner of War Panzer Quartermaster Royal Artillery Royal Army Service Corps Regimental Aid Post Road Rounds Received Registration? Reference Regiment Representative Reinforcements Regimental Headquarters Royal Marine Royal Navy Rounds per Gun Regimental Survey Officer? Rendezvous Signals Situation Report Smoke Support / Start Point (upper case) Square Special Service Supplies Survey Target Troop Transport Under-Command Vehicle Withdraw With Effect Waterproofing |
Month and year : June 1944
Commanding Officer : Lt-Col. JAH Mitchell, R.A.
1st June 1944
Place: Southend
Under comd 4 AGRA.
0900 - Preparations of Assault Scales 1st Residues and last Residues continue. Nominal Rolls - see Appx.
2000 - Orders received from M.C. SOUTHEND for move of Regt Assault Veh Party to move to Marshalling Area 0645 hrs 2 Jun, 44.
2230 - Orders received from M.C. SOUTHEND for move of Regt Assault Marching Party to move to Marshalling Area. OIC 1st Party Lt. C.A.A. Dunley, OIC 2nd Party Lt. A.C. BROOM. Parties to move at 1400 hrs 1 Jun, 44 and 0800 hrs 2 Jun, 44 respectively. For subsequent movement see appx A.
2nd June 1944
Place: Southend
0605 - Regt Assault Veh Party leave SOUTHEND on route to Marshalling Area S6, 1st and last Residues remain at SOUTHEND under comd Lt Qmr. H.J.B. Vickery, and move to Residue conc area under orders M.C. and OIC Residue Conc Area.
Place: Near Grays, Essex
1000 - Arrived Camp S6 and coln divided into 2 shiploads, MT18 under comd Lt-Col JAH Mitchell and MT19 u/c Major C.M. Blunt.
1430 - Coln moved fwd under orders MC in shiploads to Marshalling Camp S3. W'proofing Stage II completed. Personnel, less drivers and w'proofing personnel accommodated in sealed Camp S3.
1800 - Issue of special Assault Stores to each man - lifebelts, 24 hr rations, vomit bags etc. Payment of 200 French Francs per man.
1830 - CO & Adjt attended co-ordinating conference for subsequent move to Docks. CO's met Offrs & NCO i/c Sub-Units also travelling on MT 18 & issued prelim verbal instrs for landing.
1900 - Regt Offrs briefed on bogus maps.
1930 - CO addressed all ranks on impending ops.
3rd June 1944
Place: Tilbury
0700 - Assault Veh party now operating in two gps known as MT18 and MT19. MT18 consisting of Regt Recce Party, RHQ Party, U/c Maj. W.H. Hammersley, 434 Bty u/c Maj. T.B. Flewitt, 'C' Tp 435 Bty u/c Capt. PF Wright and att sub units. MT19 consisting of remainder of 435 Bty, u/c Maj. HB Bradfield, 514 Bty u/c Maj. C.M. Blunt, and att sub-units. Sequence of events MT19, see Appx.
1030 - Regt moves to Dock Area in 3 lifts. Personnel accommodated in Sealed Camp S2, during unloading operations.
1800 - Lt Whitaker & 9 OR's detailed to form ships maintenance party on MT18.
4th June 1944
Place: Tilbury
0900 - Loading of ships continues & preparation for accn on board completed.
1100 - CO boarded MT18 and met Capt McGirr, Master of the Ship. MT18 known as the 'Cyrus HK Curtis' is an American Liberty Ship with American crew. Further issues of pay, bathing etc occupied time of personnel sealed in Camp S2.
5th June 1944
Place: Tilbury
1215 - Personnel of MT 18 left Camp S2 in Troop carrying tpt & proceeded to Quay 22, TILBURY DOCKS for embarking.
1340 - Embarkation of personnel completed.
1430 - Weighed anchor & proceeded to SOUTHEND ROADS; anchored off SOUTHEND PIER for night 5/6 JUN, 44.
1700 - Ship's Standing Orders read to all personnel.
6th June 1944
Place: Thames Estuary off Southend
0800 - Wireless news revealed that Jun 6 was 'D' Day. Personnel & vehs on MT18 & MT19 were due to land on D+2.
0930 - Sealed maps opened & true destination made known. Regt was to land on "QUEEN" beach near OUISTREHAM Map 1/50,000 FRANCE Sheet 7F/2, map ref 110800.
1300 - Capt. McGirr went ashore for final conference & details of convoy.
1500 - Boat and fire drill practiced.
7th June 1944
Place: Thames Estuary off Southend
0610 - Ship weighed anchor and moved towards the English Channel. Convoy of approx 35 MT Ships escorted by Destroyers & MTB's.
1400 - Practice boat drill.
1430 - Shelled by long range guns from FRANCE. MTB's laid smk screen.
8th June 1944
Place: At Sea
0600 - Preparations commenced for unloading. Vehs to be off-loaded complete with personnel.
1100 - MT 18 anchored off 'MIKE' Sector awaited instrs.
1145 - Moved from 'MIKE' Sector to 'QUEEN' Sector & anchored.
1300 - Urgent request sent to Beachmaster for Stevedores & L.C.T's.
1415 - First landing craft arrived & crew commenced off-loading.
1630 - R.E. Stevedore's arrive & unloading continued.
1845 - First LCT left ship with CO & Adjt. Normal recce party unable to leave ship with first LCT owing to inaccessibility of vehs & breakdown of derrick in No: 3 hold.
1940 - 1st LCT landed at low water. 75 yds wade with initial depth 4'6". Of the two Regt vehs landed one hit an obstacle at water's edge, stuck & was submerged for 12 hrs.
1945 - Capt. P.F. Wright sustained slight wounds in arm & ankle from 88mm shell. Remained at duty.
2015 - 1st veh under Capt AH Gregory moved to Assembly Area 'HOMER'.
2200 - C.O. proceeded to HQRA, 3 Br Inf Div for orders.
9th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0700 - Under comd RA 3 Br Inf Div. Unloading continued but considerably hindered by breakdown of winches.
0800 - Regt Recce Party recce'd gun area at COLLVILLE sur ORME 0777, 0778 (ref 1/25,000 France Sheet 40/16NW).
1000 - RHQ est at 078781.
1020 - Lt. E.J. Dobbs fell down hold of ship & was immediately evac to Hosp Ship with concussion & fractured elbow.
1230 - LCTs began to land remainder of Regt vehs from MT18. Regt Grid est in gun area.
1600 - Div Grid est.
1700 - Arrival of guns & vehs from MT19.
1800 - All guns in action. All vehs landed from MT18. Three vehs from this ship drowned, but serviceable.
2000 - In sp of 6 AIRBORNE DIV. En attack developed from area LE MESNIL 1372, BREVILLE 1374 towards RANVILLE 1173 & LE MARIQUET 1173. Regt conc brought down & proved effective.
2200 - En pushed back from RANVILLE and LE MARIQUET & a line East of LE MARIQUET held for night.
2300 - Arrival of Regt Marching parties under Lt CAL Dunley and Lt AC Broom.
2315 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 1418.
10th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0015 - Lt AR Davey killed in action by bomb splinter, 1 OR wounded & evacuated through RAP.
0030 - Bombing of posn continued throughout night.
0600 - Various M Tgts engaged during day in area of BREVILLE Sq 1374 AMFREVILLE Sq 1274, LE PLEIN Sq 1275. Little activity on front apart from patrols.
1330 - CO met CRA 51 (H) Div at St AUBIN Sq 0976 & received provisional instrs for Fire Plan to be issued as RA 1 Corps O.O.
1515 - Local attacks pushed in by 6 AIRBORNE Div & RM Commando sp by concs of observed fire.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs. HE 691.
2315 - Gun area bombed.
11th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
1000 - Instrs received from 4 AGRA to deploy OP's on 3 Br Inf Div sector. Deployed in area ANISY 0176.
1300 - RA 1 Corps O.O. No:1 received.
1800 - M Tgts and DF Fire brought down all day on front from BREVILLE to ESCOVILLE and St. HONORINE.
2200 - Amn expended: For 24 hr ending 2200 hrs, 1783 HE.
12th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0030 - 51 (H) Div moved across R. ORNE to sp & reinforce 6 Airborne Div.
0800 - H.F. throughout day on wood Sq 0770 - 0871.
0930 - Lt. CAL Dunley sent to 4 Armd Bde as LO.
1000 - St. HONORINE engaged with M Tgts.
1520 - 40 rds Gunfire fired on BREVILLE; reported effective. Hy cas caused to en. BREVILLE occupied by own tps but en counter attack forced withdrawal.
1800 - U/comd RA 51 (H) Div.
1900 - Own tps holding VILONS LES BUISSONS Sq 0074, CAMBES Sq 0173, LES LANDEL Sq 0374, BEAUREGARD 0672, ESCOVILLE 1271, Sq 1370, 1371, 1372, NE corner Sq 1373.
2200 - Sp RA 51 (H) Div with fire plan ARROW 5 BW occupy BREVILLE. Amn exp for 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 2728.
2330 - Major C.M. Blunt & 2 ORs wounded by bomb splinters and evacuated beyond RAP.
2359 - Area bombed throughout night.
13th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0400 - Fire plan in accordance with RA 1 Corps OO No: 1 commenced.
0440 - One OP only now required on South Sector remainder w/drawn.
1000 - 5 Cameron occupied St HONORINE but forced with w/draw by hy mortar fire.
1030 - 1st Rfts received. Capt. AGB Parsons, Lt McDonald, Lt. E.B. Heaton and 7 OR's.
1100 - En counter attack beaten off by hy conc of arty fire in area MENDIP.
1200 - Regt conc called for in sp 0970 and Sq 1070 on en tanks & inf.
1300 - Maj. H.B. Bradfield sent as L.O. with 6 Airborne.
1800 - U/comd 6 AIRBORNE Div.
2220 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 7579 Smk 293.
14th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
Quiet on all sectors apart from patrol activity.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 200.
15th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
Quiet on all sectors. Sitreps see Appx.
1300 - 1 OR evacuated beyond RAP.
1800 - Capt EA Salter promoted A/Maj wef 13 Jun, 44.
2200 - Amn Exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs, HE 139.
16th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0400 - En attack developed from CUVERVILLE 1069 & ESCOUVILLE 1171. DF Task fired & attack held. Maj. TB Flewitt as L.O. with 6 A/B Div.
0900 - Effective fire brought down on ESCOUVILLE.
1000 - Fire controlled by Brig: Skiels. Many tgts engaged on ESCOUVILLE front & much damage inflicted. Sitrep appx.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs, HE 1558.
17th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
Opportunity tgts engaged in BREVEILLE area, otherwise activity limited to patrolling.
1800 - Arrival of one veh from 1st Residues.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 494.
2215 - Sitrep appx.
18th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0900 - Activity confined to CM fire.
1130 - Regt comes u/comd 51 (H) Div.
1430 - Fireplan MARMALADE engaged in conjunction with 51 (H) Div.
2115 - Engaged fire plan in sp of raid by No: 1 Commando. Capt. Knowlson accompanied raiding party as FOO.
2130 - Rum issue - cold & damp day.
2200 - Amn: exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs 1612 HE.
19th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0630 - Regt comes u/comd 6 Airborne Div.
1630 - Arrival of 1st Residues under Lt Qmr HJB Vickery.
1700 - Lt CAL Dunley returned from 4 Armd Bde & was appointed A/Adjt.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs, HE 24.
2215 - Sitrep Appx.
20th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0630 - OP's at BREVEILLE 1374 and at 093760. Quiet day.
2200 - Amn Exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 87.
2215 - Sitrep Appx.
21st June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0630 - CM activity during day.
1600 - DF Tasks registered by 435 OP.
1615 - Svy Party deployed on 6 Airborne Div Sector as Counter Mortar Organisation under Maj Bradfield. Lt EG Clark att to 6 Airborne.
2040 - C.M. programme fired.
2250 - Amn exp for 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 416.
2300 - OP's deployed as follows: Regt OP 093760, 434 OP Church Le Plein 128752, 435 OP 131764.
22nd June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0100 - O.O. No: 1 Fire plan engaged.
0430 - 514 Bty fired CM programme.
1430 - RA 51 (H) Div OO No: 1 received in conjunction RA 1 Corps operation PERTH. Regt comes u/comd 51 (H) Div for this op.
1800 - Changed to 51 (H) Div net.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 904.
23rd June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0300 - Ready on Fire Plan in conjunction with op PERTH.
0400 - Actively engaged all day on op PERTH. M tgts and DF Fire continually brought down on en inf & tanks.
1430 - Own tps in ST. HONORINE now consolidating. Engaged tgts with Air OP.
1500 - OO No: 3 received from No: 4 SS Bde. Letter of thanks from CRA 51 (H) Div.
2100 - Revert to u/comd 6 Airborne.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 2331.
24th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0800 - Engage HB's and M tgts during day.
1535 - Op Instr No: 2 issued.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 241.
2300 - Capt. Saddleton accompanied No: 4 Commando on raid as per Op Instr No: 2.
25th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0030 - Fire called for on all tasks in Op Instr No: 2. Fire effective & raid achieved objective.
0220 - All raiding party returned safely.
0221 - DF fire brought down on small enemy raid in area BOIS DE BAVENT. Fire effective & en mopped up.
1400 - Lt Poole 1583 Arty Pl RASC reported First Residues ashore.
1800 - Quiet day.
1900 - Reinforcement received - Lt. R. Curry.
2200 - Amn exp during 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 1016.
26th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0800 - HM's and HB's engaged during day.
1000 - 434 Bty in sp 1 SS Bde. 435 Bty in sp 4 SS Bde. Major Flewitt and Major Bradfield att to respective Bde HQ's. One LO from 514 Bty with 5 Para Bde.
2200 - Amn exp during 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 294 Smk 72.
27th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
Lt. Harrington RA (Para Tps) att for 3 days rest.
1030 - Impromptu calibration of guns carried out.
1810 - New MV's set on guns.
2140 - Engage Fire Plan - HF on HM.
2145 - Lt EG Clark returned from att to 6 Airborne Div.
28th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
1455 - Op Instr No: 3 issued.
2200 - Amn exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 241.
29th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
0300 - Shot on fire plan in conjunction with Op Instr No: 3. Capt EL Shears accompanied No: 45 (RM) Commando as FOO. Raid very successful. Letter of appreciation.
0700 - Engaged HM programme.
2200 - Amn expended 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 1270.
30th June 1944
Place: Colleville Sur Orne
1100 - Engaged a number of HMs and HBs during morning.
1230 - Engaged HB programme.
1400 - RA 1 Corps OO No: 3 received.
1430 - Gun area shelled by 88mm.
1800 - 1 OR evacuated beyond RAP (Battle accident).
2200 - Amn Exp 24 hrs ending 2200 hrs HE 512. Prelim Adm Instr attached. AFW 3008 and AFsW 3009 for month Jun 44.
Month and year : July 1944
Commanding Officer : Lt-Col. JAH Mitchell, R.A.
1st July 1944
1410 - Two HBs engaged SOUTH of MERVILLE - FRANCEVILLE-PLAGE (1577). Regt Task Table issued.
1500 - 150 Fd Regt OO No 4 issued.
1700 - Semi burnt GERMAN Code Sheets for Nov 43 found in fort on gun posn of 514 Bty. Local place names mentioned.
1930 - Visibility poor. Overcast sky all day. Drizzle sets in for the night. Occasional en shelling of 434 Bty OP area at LE PLEIN (1274). Strength Return AFs W3008 & W3009 attached. Amn expenditure of 24 hrs ending 1800 hrs 1 JUL : 433 rds HE. Bombardment table in sp of 3 Para Bde issued by 6 Airborne Div.
2nd July 1944
0058 - Fired on M tgt in sp of raid by a platoon of 12 Devons.
0943 - Shelling of LEBISEY (0472) - report from 434 OP.
1525 - RASC to arrange to draw HE surplus to 2nd line that we hold.
1642 - 434 OP spots en OP in tower jutting up above woods to the EAST.
1800 - Party of 25 from regt to concert held at LA DELIVERANDE (0382). Visit from Capt Kroyer and CRA 6 Airborne Div.
2025 - WO and 2 Signrs of 435 Bty ordered to report to Capt Bowler at 2145 hrs with compass, Nos 38 & 18 set to man lighthouse OP (119789).
2130 - Lt Bamford of 6 Airborne Div arrives and discusses fire plan for recapture of BREVILLE (1374) should this village be taken by the en. Draft fire plan issued. Very quiet day. Amn expenditure 1248 rds HE. Gift of 6500 cigarettes to regt by Gen Montgomery in appreciation of work done during the assault stage of the invasion.
3rd July 1944
0930 - CO has conference with CRA 6 Airborne Div. Sups and Pet to be delivered by 319 Coy RASC to the regt commencing 5 JUL.
1050 - Task Table issued for engagement of Victor Tgts. Resumption of meteor shoots to discover reliability of meteor telegrams. Propaganda broadcast to en by 1 SS Bde.
1335 - Report than an ACBO had been est at nearby 51 (H) Div HQ. Amn ex 727 rds HE. Duty Bty roster est to deal with sub-unit fire tasks at night. CM Task Table issued by 6 Airborne Div.
4th July 1944
1500 - Lt Henshall, RN Official War artist arrives to paint a scene in regt gun area for the regt. OO No 5 and task table issued in sp of attack by 6 Cdo. Propaganda programme to be repeated tonight (4/5 JUL) in AMFREVILLE (1375) area. NCO IC Svy performing his task of organising a CM Org very efficiently. A plotting centre and one FS Post at 131764 and two FS posts at 135745 and 131752 have been est. Infm recd that final residues of regt still at LEIGH on SEA on 29 JUN.
1700 - Three FOOs from 6 Airborne Div attached to the regt. Lts Hastings, Bamford & Jones who were sub-allotted to 434, 435 & 514 Btys respectively. C-in-C's certificate awarded for good service to Lt (QM) HJB VICKERY, RA and for gallantry to L/Sgt TOMLINSON, S.H.
2245 - Hy shelling of gun area by air and ground bursts. No cas or damage. Amn expenditure. 673 rds HE. Notes on CM org from 6 Airborne Div.
5th July 1944
0001 to 0048 - Shot on fire plan in sp of raid by 6 Cdo. RA 1 Corps Bombardment Table issued.
0330 - Message from OP that objective attained by 6 Cdo. Message of congratulation from 6 Airborne Div.
1145 - Alterations to Task Table for Counter Attack Plan.
1200 - C.O. attends CCRA's conference.
1530 - Suspected case of footrot in Regt - foot inspections. Amn expenditure: 1097 rd HE.
2300 - CM Task Table from 6 Airborne Div.
6th July 1944
0905 - Western outskirts of CAEN heavily bombed. Observations from Regt Flash Spotters Lighthouse OP now passed to Major Bradfield at 4 SS Bde. CO attends conference.
1430 - O.O. No: 6 and Task Table issued.
1855 - Shell lands on 434 Bty posn. (258010) Lt. Peachey wounded in left forearm and evacuated.
2120 to 2130 - RHQ Shelled by 1 gun. No casualties. Amn expenditure 892 HE. O.O. No: 7 and Task Table issued. CM Task Table issued by 6 Airborne Div.
7th July 1944
0100 - Shot on Fire Plan in sp of a raid by 4 Cdo. Capt Shears as FOO and Lt. Hastings as Firm Base.
0400 - Capt. Shears reports raid not a success owing to lack of surprise and had weather. Regts Fire sp was satisfactory.
1410 - RA 1 Corps OO No: 5 and traces received.
2145 to 2230 - Large scale bombing of Northern Outskirts of CAEN by a large force of Lancaster bombers. A literal fog of dust spread northwards over Regt area. Amn expenditure 1044 rds HE. Preparations for Operation CHARNWOOD. Regt u/comd 4 AGRA. Issued of CM TASK TABLE & DF Trace.
8th July 1944
0245 to 0400 - Engaged Victor Tgts at ST CONTEST (0072) ST GERMAIN (0069) LEBISEY (0472) and AUTHIE (9871) Scale 10 on LEBISEY.
0420 - H hr for Operation 'CHARNWOOD' - Conc by 150 Fd Regt.
0446 - 3 Shells on B Tp posn: Approx 1 per min landing in this area.
0635 - Lt Whittaker wounded by shell fragments in both feet and left leg and evac to 8 Fd Amb. Unexploded medium shell on A Tp posn.
0645 - Major Salter at VILLONS-LES-PUISSONS (0075). Own tps at MALON (0172).
0730 - Phase 2 Starts. Objectives in Phase 1 having been taken GALMANCHE (0073) LEBISEY and HEROUVILLETTE (0671) captured. Conc by 150 Fd Regt.
0800 - Own tps entering GRUCHY (9872). Tank fails [flails?] used to clear minefields north of BURON (9973).
0845 - Own tps at EPRON (0772).
0950 - ST CONTEST (0072) captured.
1255 - Victor tgts engaged South of EPRON.
1450 - Elements of own tps reached ring contour (0370). RA 6 Airborne Div issued CM Task Table.
1630 - Fired conc on BITOT (0071).
1710 - FRANQUEVILLE (9700) AUTHIE (9871) and BURON (9972) now in our hands.
1730 - Phase 3 starts Conc by Regt.
1905 - 9 and 33 Bde on outskirts of CAEN.
1930 - Own tps in OUSSY (9970).
2015 - Details of Quick Barrage and STONK given to Regt.
2100 - Started barrage on Line G.
2120 - Enemy counter attacking from BITOT (0071).
2220 - End of Barrage.
2224 to 2254 - 'STONK' engaged by Regt. Warning Order that Regt to be in sp of 3 Br Inf Div for next op. Major Salter recalled.
2240 - 150 Rep to go to 3 Br Inf Div.
2245 - 200 rpg to be collected tonight.
2330 - Sitrep from 4 AGRA - BIGOT captured. En still holding ARDENNE (9970) and is counter attacking BIGOT. LA FOLIE (0171) and COUVRE CHEF (0271) still held by en. Situation in MALON (0172) obscure. V tgts especially on en tpt in St GERMAIN very successful.
2350 - Amn exp 6212 rd HE. Fighting abates at nightfall. Field return for week ending 8 Jul. Court of Inquiry held to determine illegal absence of an O.R.
9th July 1944
0950 - North of factory clear of en. Own tps penetrated Northern & Western districts of CAEN. En dug in tanks at MALON (0172). En pocket South of EPRON (0272). 6 Airborne Div issued CM Task Table.
1416 - Report that 9 Bde now along line of R. ORNE to west of Canal.
1430 - O.O. No: 8 with Task Table issued.
1530 - Reported that Inns of Court (9 Bde) and 3 Cdn Bde within 60 yds of each other in Western suburbs of CAEN. En being mopped up in MALON. St. CONTEST (0072) and FOLIE (0271) clear of en. Regt engaged HM and HB Tgts on 6 Airborne Div front.
1800 - Official announcement on fall of CAEN. Amn expenditure to 1800 hrs 3,442 HE. Regt ceases to sp 3 Br Inf Div and passes u/comb 6 Airborne.
10th July 1944
0210 - Report on Raid: Not successful, lack of comns between raiding party & covering party. Arty sp effective, Cas to own tps believed 3 wounded.
1130 - Conc by Regt in sp of 51 (H) Div.
1200 - Incendiary cannon shell from hostile aircraft hit Signal Office truck which is gutted out. Regt no longer in sp of 3 Br Inf Div, remains under comd 6 Airborne.
1430 - CO has Conference with CCRA.
1630 - 'H' for Task Table issued by RA 6 Airborne Div. OO No: 9 issued. Amn exp: 2503 rds HE. 20 Seats at cinema at LUC-SUR-MER allotted to Regt. 1 OR temporary att to 33 Graves Regn Unit at CRESSERONS.
11th July 1944
0100 - 'H' Hour for Operation "STACK" in which Regt sp 51 (H) Div.
0445 to 0622 - Engaged DF Tasks in conjunction with Op "STACK" in COLOMBELLES area (7007). Attack on factory.
0700 - Continuous shelling & mortaring of own tps reported.
0850 - Report that en using TIGER Tanks.
1455 - Red smk observed at GIBERVILLE (0968). This was signal for RAF bombing of the area.
1630 - CUVERVILLE bombed by RAF. Afternoon & evening very quiet. Amn Exp 2014.
12th July 1944
0650 to 0710 - Engaged HB's South of MERVILLE (1578).
1600 - Warning Order of Regts move. 1st issued of bread to supplement biscuit rations.
1800 - CO's Conference with CAGRA.
1825 - Hostile Bty & HM located by Maj. Bradfield.
2100 - Visit from CO of 191 Fd Regt RA with ref to taking over from 150 Fd Regt on 6 Airborne Div front for 3 days. 150 Fd Regt arranged to hand over Task Data, OP sites and some of comns, wef 1200 hrs, 13 Jul, 44. Amn 197 rds HE. 8 Seats in Cinema allotted to Regt.
13th July 1944
0050 - Order for Recce of new posn issued by RHQ.
1200 - Commencement of 3 days Rest. 191 Fd Regt RA takes over fighting role of 150 Fd Regt for this period. Completed by 1430 hrs.
1600 - Recreational Party to BAYEUX. Patrol report of 6 Airborne Div Raids sp by 150 Fd Regt loaned to Regt.
2330 - Arrival of part of Residues. Amn exp 162 rds HE. Regt reverts u/Comd 4 AGRA.
14th July 1944
1600 - Bty reps sent to location of 126 Fd Regt RA (064748) to take over amn which was left there by 126 Fd Regt. Later moved at 1800 hrs.
2110 - CO to have conference with CAGRA at 1000 hrs, 15 Jul. Orders to Move from Movement Control (1 Corps). Regt allowed to move in own time. To be off road by 1800 hrs 15 Jul, 44. Regt leaves its mark in form of inscription of Regt Badge and Name and period of occupation on wall of coal house (080781). Message of thanks for fire sp from Maj-Gen WHISTLER Comd 3 Br Inf Div. Arrival of Rev. Capt. Hughes (CE) for 3 days. U/comd 4 Agra. Amn exp NIL.
15th July 1944
0100 - Movement Orders issued to Btys from RHQ.
0900 - Recce parties meet 2 i/c. Surveying of new posn.
1115 - First tp leave posn. Regt moves by tps.
1330 - RHQ arrives at new location (056732) RHQ at old German HQ dug in Hillside.
1430 - Through by line to 4 AGRA. Digging, sign posting & local defence.
1800 - ZL's Recorded (ZL 120°). Amn exp - NIL, Arrival of Final residues. Personal message from C-in-C.
16th July 1944
1415 to 1515 - Calibration shoot by Regts of 4 AGRA. Pivot guns of A, C and E Tps only.
1700 - Received 420 paper backed books from Army Welfare Service. Amn Exp 16 rds HE.
17th July 1944
1000 - Continuation of calibration shoot.
1400 - Mobile Bath unit used by Regt.
1500 - CO has conference with CRA 51 (H) Div under whose comd 150 Fd now come. Preparations for operation 'GOODWOOD'.
1605 - Maj. ADDERLEY of 388 LAA Regt visited Regt in conjunction with AA protection. This AA Regt has been allotted to 4 AGRA.
2000 - Lt Dunley as LO with RA 51 (H) Div. Amn exp 7 rds HE. Weather turns very warm. Mosquitoes and Pests. 1 OR att to Regt from 1583 RASC Pl.
18th July 1944
0130 - 434 Bty report on prisoner captured. On interrogation proves to be a Frenchman without papers. Prisoner sent to RHQ & sent to Centarmerie in BLAINVILLE.
1000 - TOUFFREVILLE, SANNERVILLE & BANNERVILLE captured on 3 Br Div front. CAGNY captured.
2215 - Bombing of RHQ by en aircraft. Amn exp 848 rds HE.
19th July 1944
1000 - 51 (H) Div move to RANVILLE (1073).
1335 - 246 rpg HE dumped.
1700 - Lt Dunley returns from HQRA 51 (H) Div. Own tps 1000 yds West of TROARN (1667). Amn exp 11 rds HE.
20th July 1944
0115 - Engaged Victor tgts south of TROARN (1667).
1200 - "Prepare to Move" received. Regt to move by tps.
1230 - Recce parties move to new area. BOURGUEBUS (0861) reported captured.
1800 - ZL's recorded (ZL 140°).
2200 - Rum issue. Location RHQ in farmyard at BLAINVILLE. (0873) Gun area between Canal & R.ORNE in low lying water-logged meadowland. Drenching rain during move. Amn exp 1103 rds. RHQ 'Q' Staff & LAD remain at previous locations.
21st July 1944
1000 - CO visits CRA 6 Airborne Div. Regt provide 1 OP sp 3 Para Bde.
1200 - Welfare Pack arrives.
1745 - 514 Bty shelled. Three casualties evacuated to FDS, incl 1 Sgt CPOA & 1 Dvr/OP.
2100 - Rum issue.
2300 - ST MARTIN DE FONTENAY (0260) reported captured. Downpour continued intermittently through the day. Regt in sp of 6 Airborne Div. Amn exp 1363 rds HE. Q Staff & LAD arrive.
22nd July 1944
1900 - Capt. Saddleton sent out as OP to 5 para Bde.
2130 - Missing wounded NCO of 514 Bty (Bdr Nelson) searched for and records of his death on 14 Jun found at 16 CCS LA DELIVERANDE.
23rd July 1944
0820 - Engaged hostile mortars. CM and CB Task Table from 6 Airborne Div.
1230 - CO has conference with CRA 6 Airborne Div.
1245 - Mobile NAAFI canteen visits RHQ and 514 Bty. DF Task Table from 3 Br Ind Div. Amn exp 824 rds HE.
24th July 1944
Mobile NAAFI canteen visits 434 & 435 Btys. Premature during night 23/24 Jul. occurred with 1 gun in B Tp. IO from 1 Corps visits Regt to deal with matter. HM engaged, Task Table att.
1500 - Visit from Maj. Mitchell of 151 (AY) Fd Regt, RA.
2105 - Sigs NCO of 434 Bty hit by an aircraft cannon shell & evac. Amn exp 1092 HE. Night 24/25 Jul Intense activity by AA defences against hostile aircraft throughout whole night. Shits of adjts office to 'first floor' of barn advantage of larger space & better light. First issue of bulk rations which replaced compo packs on alternate days.
25th July 1944
1100 - Warning order that Regt will come under comd of 4 AGRA wef 0500 hrs, 26 Jul.
1503 - Shot on HM Table.
2130 - Regt to be available after 0500 hrs 26 Jul to take over commitments of Regts of 3 Br Div as they come out of action in turn to rest. Regt still to be available for HF, CB fire etc. Amn exp to 2200 hrs 1154 rds.
26th July 1944
0500 - Regt comes under comd 4 AGRA.
0900 - 191 Fd Regt takes over commitments in sp of 6 Airborne Div incl OP reps and DF Tasks.
1700 - Small arms accident in 514 Bty involving 3 men injured. No rds fired all day until tgts at 2315 hrs. Amn exp 543 rds HE. Mean of EFC's fired at 2156. Parties sent to see concert at LA DELIVERANDE and films at LUC-SUR-MER. One OR evacuated suffering from nervous exhaustion.
27th July 1944
0200 - 514 gun posn shelled by heavy guns.
0245 - A Tp W/Ls shelled - no casualties.
0812 - Reports of 3 unexploded bombs in 514 Bty WL area. CM Task Table from 49 Div. Warning Order: 150 Fd Regt to sp 33 Armd Bde and to come under comd 49 Div wef 2000 hrs, 27 Jul.
1400 - Court of Inquiry on cause of injuries sustained on 26 Jul, to 3 ORs.
1545 - CO issues orders for a move fwd. Fresh rations issued for first time.
1630 - Full recce parties meet 2 i/c at RV. Digging parties sent fwd to prepare gun pits in new area. 'A' and 'B' Echs to remain behind.
2130 - Theatre grid est in new area N.W. of ESCOVILLE (1271). 2 OR's wounded.
2300 - RHQ est. Amn exp 410 rds HE.
28th July 1944
0001 - Regt moves by Btys. 435 Bty past SP. Owing to road blockage 434 Bty delayed en route. 514 Bty lost 1 Quad which struck a mine entering new posn. One cas evacuated.
0600 - ZL's recorded (ZL 180º).
0900 - Regt in direct sp of 33 Armd Bde & under comd 49 Div. OPs taken over from 69 Fd Regt. CO stays at 33 Bde HQ. Major Bradfield, Capt Saddleton and Capt Bowler stay at 144 Regt HQ. Major Salter, Capts Miell & Clough stay at 1 NY Regt HQ. Digging of Comd Post, slit trenches & gun pits. Dumping of amn from old locations.
2350 - Task Table issued in conjunction with counter offensive by 33 Armd Bde. 5 OR's wounded. CM Task Table issued. Amn exp 912 rds HE, Total of 63,689 rds fired since D+3 (2563 rpg). Hy AA fire at hostile aircraft activity during night 28/29 JUL.
2359 - Strength State 38 Offrs and 676 ORs.
29th July 1944
1030 - Visit from IO 49 Div, HQRA and from Capt Hughes, 49 Div RA padre (CE) who comes from Nottingham and was with Regt in 1939. Low flying lone planes at night and heavy AA fire. One OR wounded. Amn exp 1818 rds HE.
30th July 1944
Engaged CM Tasks and fired small U and CM Fire plans throughout day.
1800 - Attack begins on 30 Corps front by 8 Corps.
1800 to 1900 - Fresh CM fire plan fired. BBC announce Field Marshal Rommel wounded severely & capture of GRANVILLE by American Army (79 Inf Div 6 Armd Div). Amn exp 2830 rds HE, 74 rds HE and 24 supercharge per gun dumped. The en does not fire when AOP airborne. Air photographs of left flank received.
31st July 1944
0800 - Wireless announcement that 4 US Arm Div have reached AVRANCHES on west coast to COTENTIN peninsular. En withdrawal to TESSY on 30 Corps front.
1040 to 1150 - AOP shoots on H.M.
1400 - Surveying of alternative posns. Digging in of vehs.
1525 - U Tgt engaged with AOP obs at 1096097. Smk observed rising from tgt area Scale 9 ordered.
1715 - 105 mm shelling of Regt area. One fragment arrives in Adjts office. CRA 49 Div permits local pea & potato picking by tps in fwd areas in organised parties. 1 Corps programme "HAMMER" issued to Btys. RA 49 Div Task Table No: 2 issued. One OR evacuated. Amn exp 1837 rds HE. Total amn exp JUL 44,234 rds HE. Field Returns for Jul, 44 Appx D. Trace of BLAINVILLE gun area & tgts Appx A.
Month and year : August 1944
Commanding Officer : Lt-Col. JAH Mitchell, R.A.
1st August 1944
0100 - Report of death of evacuated OR.
0326 - Fired on 49 Div CM Task Table No 9. Calls for fire on these Tasks throughout the day.
1120 - CRA 49 Div visited Regt area.
1400 - 2 i/c and RSO recce proposed new Regt area.
2000 - 2 i/c recced new WL area East of r. Orne. Amn Ex 2741 rds HE. Beer issue.
2nd August 1944
Relaxation period of 7 days commenced. BCs to arrange resting of OP Parties with Units they are sp. Half of each Bty to rest in turn.
1135 - Tgts fired in sp of air bombardment. Attachments for fraternisation with R.A.C. 434 Bty 148 RAC, 435 Bty 144 RAC 514 Bty INY. Amn exp 1376 rds HE. 107 (SNH) Med Regt at DEMOUVILLE (0967).
3rd August 1944
1600 - Report that INY are pulling out at 1800 hrs. Regt OPs with 33 Arm Bde recalled. CO returns to Regt. 33 Armd Bde leaving 49 Div and 1 Corps. 150 Fd Regt ceases to sp 33 Armd Bde. Regt to provide reps with 21 Armd Regt and 4 Cdn Armd Bde of 4 Cdn Armd Div who are moving to area S.W. of DEMOUVILLE (1007).
1900 - A.O.P. shoot to determine degree to which guns shooting together. Result very satisfactory. Amn exp 2684 rds HE. Report that 9 Pz Div left eastern end of bridgehead.
4th August 1944
0405 - Regt in sp of 4 Cdn Armd Bde (21 and 28 Armd Regts) Lt-Col Mitchell stays at 21 Armd Regt HQ. (also Capt Knowlson & Capt Saddleton). Major Salter & Capt Miell stay with 28 Armd Regt.
1200 - One new 25 pdr gun received from Corps Ordnance Sub Park to replace a 'D' Tp Gun. A jammed cartridge case caused ovality of the breech necessitating replacement. Amn Exp 1706 rds.
5th August 1944
1325 - 1 gun collected from TAILLEVILLE, to replace E1 which had a cracked cradle. B Ech move to area 0871. Visit from Lt. POOLE to prepare for rapid loading and removal of amn in event of quick move.
6th August 1944
1400 - Issue of 49 Div OO No: 8 with Task Table.
1810 - 2 i/c to report to 6 A/B Div 1900 hrs. Regt to revert to u/comd 6 A/B. 100 rpg HE dumped. 6,500 cigarettes sent to Regt by Overseas League Fund. WO i/c LAD inspected guns and measured gun bores. Firing platforms to be turned round 45º every 2 days to prevent buckling. Amn exp 1383 rds HE.
7th August 1944
1200 - U/Comd 6 A/B Div. In sp 49 Div for Op TOTALIZE. Sp 3 Para Bde & 4 SS on Troarn sector. Major Bradfield as L.O. and Capt Clough (OPO) report to 4 SS Bde. CM Plotting centre and 2 listening posts established by Capt. Shears (CM Rep) in 3 Para Bde sector. Zone VARAVILLE to EMEVILLE. Major Salter, Capts Saddleton, Knowlson and Miel return to Regt area. 150 Fd Regt relieved OPs of 63 Fd Regt. OPs with LINCS & HALLAMS (146 Bde) at 1200 hrs. 4 SS takes over from 146 Bde. 150 Fd Regt comes under comd 6 A/B 1200 hrs. RL set to 49 Div remains on net for operation taking place night 7/8 Aug. 44. 200 rds per Gun dumped at gun posns. Line through to 191 Fd Regt and then to 6 A/B Div.
0915 - Visit from CO 69 Fd Regt (Col Crawford) to arrange to take over commitments on 6 A/B front line.
1200 - RA 51 Div OO No: 4 issued.
1600 - Traces & Task Table for OP TOTALIZE issued from 49 Div HQRA.
2330 - H hr for Operation TOTALIZE. Amn Exp 2218.
8th August 1944
0750 - MAY-SUR-ORBE (0259) and FONTENAY-LE-MARMION (0358) and GARCELLES SECQUEVILLE (0959) captured by 1 Cdn Army.
1515 - Visit from CRA 6 A/B Div.
1830 - CO's Conference with CRA 6 A/B Div. Line from Major Bradfield to Capt Clough. Capt Bowler rep with 3 Para HQ. Amn Exp 3761 rds HE. Outline of general plan for advance Eastwards by 6 A/B Div in event on withdrawal revealed. 150 Fd Regt to sp 3 Para Bde in their adv to BURES (1769) supplying 3 FOOs. Zone of fire extended Northwards to VARAVILLE (1875). Guns pits extended to give necessary increase in arc of fire.
1930 - Major Flewitt and Capt Knowlson to 3 Para Bde as CRA's rep.
1950 - 153 Bde captured SECQUEVILLE LA CAMPAGNE at 1800 hrs.
9th August 1944
0025 - Capt Knowlson at one hours notice to go to 3 Para Bde HQ complete with OP Party½.
0040 - BRETTEVILLE-SUR-LAIZE (0553) captured.
1015 - C.O. and Major Bradfield meet CRA 6 Airborne Div at HQ 4 SS Bde.
1400 - Audit Board consisting of Major Salter, Capt Bowler & Lt. CAT Wright sits.
1515 - CO visits 70 Inf Bde (Tyneside Scottish).
1623 - Visit from Major of neighbouring 103 Hy AA Regt.
2130 - Enemy believed to be withdrawing from VIMONT (1561).
1700 - 434 Bty Water truck stuck a mine near A Tp posn. No casualties. Amn exp: 1122 rds HE.
10th August 1944
1000 - Task Table for Op SPANNER issued. To take effect in the event of an en withdrawal in the TROARN-BURES sector.
1200 - 150 Fd Regt RA take over commitments from 191 Fd Regt on 3 Para Bde front. 4 OP's supplied by Tp Comds of 434 and 514 Bty. 2 A/L LAA Bty took over 'P' CM listening Post. 150 Fd Regt supplying comns. Capt Saddleton relieved Capt. Knowlson at 'Q' CM Post.
1720 - Visit from CO 191 Fd Regt. Amn Exp 1118 rds HE.
11th August 1944
0800 - MANTES & ANGERS Captured.
1800 - THURY HARCOURT reported captured. Amn Exp 2009 HE. Capt Shears with 8 Para Bn and Capt Knowlson with 9 Para Bn.
2000 - 150 Fd Regt OO No: 2 in conjunction with 3 Para Bde OO No: 1 Op 'PADDLE' issued.
12th August 1944
Amn Exp 2354 rds HE.
13th August 1944
0200 - 49 Div issues amended DF Task Table & Trace.
1410 - Air OP carries out observed shoot on one of Regts DF tasks. Air OP permanently on Air H Net. Visit from Capt Smith, B Flight, 652 Sqn. Normal CB & HM Bombards fired. 1 Surveyor lent to 6 Airborne Div HQ for clerical work. Limited issue of anti-mosquito head veils. Amn Exp 2267 rds HE. 100,000th round fired by Regt since D + 3.
14th August 1944
0930 - Arrangements made to exchange 20 Gnrs for 20 Commandos commencing 18 Aug.
1200 - 200 rpg HE dumped. Amended DF Trace issued by 6 Airborne Div.
15th August 1944
1940 - FALAISE Gap between Cdn and US Armies narrowed to 12 miles. Amn exp 2716 rds HE.
2000 - Issue of gift of 99 gals of beer from Mitchell & Butlers Brewery, Smethwick.
16th August 1944
1140 - 6 A/B Armd Recce Regt embarking on a recce. This Regt taking over from 70 Bde.
1200 - Visit from Capt Smith (AOP). Arrangements made to register HF Task at 1600 hrs.
2000 - P.Ws report on Bn crossing bridge East of TROARN.
2230 - Warning Order that OP PADDLE may operate tonight. Amn Exp 1481 rds HE.
1500 - Major Hammersley recces alternative gun area near BASSENVILLE (7367).
17th August 1944
0300 - Op 'PADDLE' commences. Major Flewitt as CRA's rep.
0801 - 9 Bn 3 Para Bde passing through 8 Bn to ridge beyond BURES-BAVENT line to objective VAUVERS (1869).
0915 - 4 SS reported at 155 easting grid line.
0945 - Own tps in BAVENT (1673). Our FOOs with them. Line through TROARN (1667) captured.
1005 - Capt. Miell at pt 43 on high ground S of VAUVERS (1869).
1007 - 434 prepare to move.
1400 - CO in BURES. Bridges across river blown. Warning order for Regt today.
1730 - RHQ leaves old location for wood nr brickwork 1 mile NW of TROARN.
1800 - ZL's recorded ZL 70º.
1900 - Line through to Btys. Amn Exp 1785 rds HE.
18th August 1944
0200 - 6 Airborne Div issues OO for an advance to DOZULE. 150 Fd Regt in sp of 3 Para Bde. Regt to move fwd 1 sub unit to BASSENVILLE - GOUSTRANVILLE ridge.
0300 - Capt Saddleton returns from 4 SS Bde.
0400 - Major Hammersley leaves to recce new gun area.
0515 - CO leaves for 3 Para Bde HQ and meets Capt Saddleton there.
0525 - Visit from reps from 60 HAA and 191 Fd Regt with whom Regt is co-operating. Report that br over river east of TROARN damaged and jammed with traffic. Move of Regt postponed.
1500 - Regt in new area at ST RICHER (2069) ZL 70° RHQ at 203697 in village.
2100 - 150 Fd Regt OO No: 1 issued. Amn Exp 1785 rds HE.
2145 - Z Hr for attack by 3 Para Bde.
2300 - 20 prisoners taken.
2345 - Enemy aircraft on extensive photographic recce. 150 Fd Regt comes under comd 6 A/B for admn purposes.
19th August 1944
0950 - Whole fwd area & along rd east of GOUSTRANVILLE 2271 being shelled.
1004 - Capt Clough crossing river to RV 240720.
1710 - En O.O. captured stating fighting withdrawal to be undertaken. Situation at front quiet. Severe shelling this morning with many casualties in fwd area. When COTSWOLD fired mortars silenced. Shelling ceased at once when AOP airborne. Registration of DF's impossible due to the many patrols out. Strength of en estimated at 1 Bn.
2000 - Lt-Col JAH Mitchell gives orders for sp of attack on ANGOVILLE 2470 tonight. DF Trace made by Major Hammersley and issued.
2100 - A 434 Bty linesman wounded and evacuated.
2200 - Orders from HMRA 6 Airborne Div. Capt Knowlson FOO to be on east side of br D at 0200 hrs, where a guide from 5 Para Bde will meet him. 5 Para Bde sending a patrol along road leading North from bridge DOG. Capt Saddleton OP Offr with 13 Bn 5 Para Bde with fwd Unit of Bde En c/attack developed. Directed fire which broke up c/attack successfully. Under heavy shelling & mortar fire. Amn exp 5535 rds HE. 5 ORs evacuated with shrapnel wounds in legs.
20th August 1944
0736 - 1 SS Bde taken objective and exploiting high ground to North where opposition encountered.
0940 - Sit Rep from CO.
1100 - Sit Rep from CO.
1050 - Report from Maj. Flewitt that his Jeep has been hit.
1100 - Visit from Lt. Sharp (AOP).
1157 - 100 rds HE per gun dumped. Arrival of rep from 53 Lt Regt.
1445 - Fwd tps 2000 m S of DOZULE (2672).
1610 - Visit from CRA. CRA's rep with 3 Para Bde (Major Flewitt) can be withdrawn
1700 - Visit from Major Flewitt who is accompanied by Jeep and 3 38 sets from 53 Lt Regt and three ORs to man mortar listening post under Lt. Bamford.
1710 - An AOP Offr is to report in early morning 21 Aug to 150 Fd Regt.
1810 - OO Op "HURRIED" issued.
1930 - Op 'HURRIED' cancelled.
2000 - Bn reported withdrawing. CRA congratulates Regt on effectiveness of fire which terminated an enemy counter attack Southwards from Southern half of sq 2476.
2300 - Orders received of change of plan from CRA. 4 SS Bde to attack DOZULE from South at 0600 hrs 21 Aug sp by 191 Fd Regt. 6 A/L Bde to adv through 1 SS Bde to NE sp by 150 Fd Regt and 53 Lt Regt. 150 Fd Regt to assist in mopping up of BRUCOURT area 2275. Amn exp 2711 rds per gun and 135 smk.
21st August 1944
0030 - Confirmatory message on role of 150 Fd Regt received.
0200 - Arrival of Belgian Offr from Belgn Bty.
0710 - Mopping up today in sq 2274.
0800 - Capt Saddleton unable to observe due to poor visibility.
0900 - Own tps in DOZULE and just to East of it. Belgian Offr to form an O.P. for his own Bty.
1000 - 2 Btys prepare to move. 6 A/B recce approaching ANNEBAULT (4200). Very little opposition. 150 Fd remains in sp of 1 SS Bde.
1320 - All Btys at 15 mins notice (B Ech at 1 hrs notice) to move from 1500 hrs.
1330 - Visit from CRA. 150 Fd Regt to adv now to avoid traffic trouble at br 236720. 3 Para Bde to continue adv instead of 5 Para Bde passing through them. If an independent galloping role is necessary for Regt, permission granted to move fwd without reference to CRA, provided he is informed. Armd Recce reached 3170. Battle expected in front of PONT L'EVEQUE. Div arty to be deployed on new grid, probably between 02 and 87 grid lines. 60 HAA to adv along 6 A/L Bdes axis of adv (road 275773 to 290779).
1315 - One CRA's rep and 1 FOO will report to 5 Para Bde HQ at 1400 hrs. CRA will try to release the Reg completely from 1 SS Bde. Regt will sp 5 Para Bde.
1455 - Major Hammersley issues orders for move fwd 2 Btys and HQ to move at once. 514 Bty stays at present location. LO to br sq 2372 arranges for crossing. Rear Bty remains until orders from CRA. 514 Bty ordered to move up.
1600 - Move completed. RHQ at farm at 253735 west of DOZULE. RHQ WLs at previous RHQ location. ZL 60°.
1850 - Light opposition met by fwd tps. En in ANNEBAULT 4200. 3 Para Bde to attack village from North. 150 Fd Regt move to fwd location to sp 5 Para Bde in fwd posn.
2330 - ZL's recorded in new area. ZL 60°. Location RHQ farm at 290743 (2 miles NE of DOZULE). Amn Exp 789 rds HE. 31 rds SMK.
22nd August 1944
0610 - Receipt of orders from BMRA for adv to PONT L'EVEQUE (5204).
0630 - Prepare to move. Recce parties to move 2 i/c at 0745 hrs at 439014. Own RV same as that for recce parties. Regt sp 5 Para Bde with 3 FOOs (Capts Clough, Shears and Bowler) with Major Salter as rep at Bde HQ.
0730 - Whilst making recce of new gun area in morning mist, 6 German soldiers scrambled out of the ditch and surrendered to RSO.
1430 - Fire plan arranged by Capt Bowler. Effective smokescreens and accurate shooting reported in execution of plan.
1930 - Orders of CRA 2 Btys to move fwd (435 & 514).
2000 - Arrival of one of the Maquies who reported German soldiers dressed as French civilians and pro-German activity.
1427 - Inf being mortared East side of PONT L'EVEQUE.
1800 - Capt Clough wounded in eye and stomach and evacuated. Capt. Saddleton wounded in arm, and his OPA wounded. Capt. Miell replaced Capt Clough and Capt Knowlson relieves Capt. Shears. Fire Plan in sp of 4 SS Bde issued.
2010 - Regt moves fwd to Chateau at 481010 North of CLARBEC 4700. ZL 80° on Provisional Div Grid.
2300 to 2330 - Shelling of Capt Bowlers location. Amn Exp 556 rds HE and 300 rds Smk. PONT L'EVEQUE in flames.
23rd August 1944
0920 - Report that Capt Shears was ill.
0945 - Polish worker for German army surrendered to 514 Bty.
0950 - Report that from 1500 to 2300 hrs 22 Aug, Capt Saddleton pinned in River TOUQUES. With a Tommy gun he replied to a snipers fire but was wounded in both hands and evacuated. His OPA, Bdr. Tustin, is missing and believed wounded. His signaller was wounded by a shell splinter in the forehead. Lt. King takes over as C Tp comd and is appointed A/Capt, and Lt. Payne as 435 Bty CPO. Lt. Coy replaced Capt Clough as F Tp Comd.
1105 - Major Hammersley prepares posn for the 3 tps of 1 Belgian Bty adjacent to Regt area. 1 Belgian Bty comes under Comd 150 Fd Regt.
1500 - Arrival of Belgian Bty.
1930 - 150 Fd Regt supply 1 FOO to 4 SS Bde.
1630 - Capt. Bowler, Lt. King and Capt Spence of 65 Med Regt, together in a rear OP. 100 rds HE dumped. Amn exp 2446 rds HE.
1530 - En reported digging in 463110 to 460117.
2000 - Fire plan in sp of 1 SS Bde attack through 4 SS Bde. Outline Plan 1 SS Bde to ford river South of PONT L'EVEQUE and attack, adv silently to NE to a pt in wood 5507 and thence attack SW to PONT L'EVEQUE. 150 Fd Regt to provide arty sp in form of bombards on the village and DF. 4 SS Bde to adv ENE to South of 1 SS Bde zone of ops. 4 SS Bde to be sp by 191 Fd Regt RA. Z hr to be 0400 hrs 24 Aug. Comds were prepared by 150 Fd Regt.
2400 - Amn exp 2446 rds HE and 288 rds smk.
24th August 1944
Adv of own tps continues.
1050 - PONT L'EVEQUE captured.
1200 - Recce parties leave for new gun area. Sq 5206. 150 Fd Regt sp 3 Para Bde. Capt King with 12 Bn. Capt Knowlson with 7 Bn.
1130 - Belgian CO, Capt Gregory, King & Spence (of 65 Med Regt) meet CO at br at PONT L'EVEQUE.
1500 - Lt. Bamford arrives and remains as CMO with 150 Fd Regt.
1525 - A second CMO arrives at 514 Bty. 434 and 435 Bty move first. Bridge across rivers at PONT L'EVEQUE destroyed. Pontoon br built further North. 514 and Belgian Bty leave old location in evening. Adj goes fwd but non-essential vehs remain behind until first light 25 Aug owing to congestion of road and impossibility of crossing pontoon br. across River TOUQUES by night. RHQ at 522058 in an orchard at COUDRAY - RABUT. Amn exp 408 rds HE and 60 rds smk.
25th August 1944
0800 - RHQ vehs arrive at new RHQ location, COUR BONNETUIT (583082).
1000 - Recce parties leave to prepare gun area in sp 5908. Move fwd two sub-units at a time. RHQ est in an orcard at 583082.
1300 - Difficulty in communicating by wireless because of separation of stations by FORET DE ST GATIEN, NE of PONT L'EVEQUE (5204). Snipers and ordnance dumps in wood. HONFLEUR taken. BEUZEVILLE held by en.
1900 - Fire Plan arranged by Capt. Bowler.
26th August 1944
0715 - Recce party moves to fwd area.
0730 - CO goes on recce. En withdrawing. Own tps in rapid pursuit to prevent crossing of as much en equipment as possible across R SEINE. Move of Regt to area LA ROCHE across R LA MORETTE 6310 (North of BEUZEVILLE 6409 which is now captured). 434 & 435 Bty move first. On getting into action 514 & Belg Gp move.
0745 - Capt. Knowlson joins 7 Bn, 3 Para Bde. 150 Fd Regt to sp 1 Belgian Gp whose objective is FOULBEC 7015.
1250 - 35 P/W's taken by Regt.
1210 - En mortars and guns on East of R RISLE below PONT D'AUDEMEY. Regt again moves fwd to gun area 6812 North of St MACLOU (6810). RHQ at 68119 ZL 60°. 6 Airborne Div final objective R. SEINE.
2000 - Lt Dunley and Lt PRICE go to 49 Div HQ for orders. Amn exp 1634 rds HE.
27th August 1944
0800 - L.O's return after travelling all night since fighting in PONT D'AUDEMER necessitated circuitous journey.
0830 - Prepare to move to gun area 7901 recced by 143 Fd Regt RA. ZL 60°. Belgian Bty no longer u/comd 150 Fd Regt. LAD moved to area 7501.
0930 - Regt moves to new location via BEUZEVILLE 6409 and St GEORGE DU VIEURE 8096. Own tps at 785140 on peninsular between Rivers RISLE and SEINE. Large numbers of en PW's marched back. Axis of adv of 49 Div to North after crossing SEINE. Message of congratulation & thanks for the services of 150 Fd Regt to 6 A/B Div since the commencement of the campaign. Amn Exp 130 rds HE.
28th August 1944
1125 - En withdrawal continuing. Considerable en eqpt captured. Allied Tps across R. MARNE.
1415 - CO has conference with Comd 4 AGRA. 150 Fd Regt u/Comd 4 AGRA. Unidentifiable body, believed to be Bdr. Tustin C, discovered to have been buried at (497000). 150 (SNH) Fd Regt movement Instr issued.
1900 - Regt moves in harbour in area of village of BRESTOT 8807. Large en pockets in area between Rivers RISLE and SEINE. RHQ at 891077. Amn exp 130 rds HE.
29th August 1944
The Regt sets to maintaining itself with a will. General Gale of 6 Airborne Div issues a Special Order congratulating the Regt on its sp of the Div.
