At Sea, 

1

Nothing to report.

2

Burial at sea of OR who was found shot in ablution room.

3

Nothing to report.

4

Sailed up the Clyde.

5

Awaiting disembarkation.

6

Disembarked in lighters and entrained for WYMONDHAM at GOUROCK

7

Arrived at WYMONDHAM at 0530 hrs and were met with tpt which carried the Bty to KIMBERLEY PARK. Were introduced to the facilities of the camp by the outgoing formation's rear party. Day spent in organising.

8

District Cashier visited the Bty and outlined Accounting and Funds arrangements.

9

RC Church Parade. Organisation for despatching the Bty on leave.

10

First leave party despatched.

11

Second leave party left.

12

Capt DP Fitzgerald RA assumed comd of Bty in Major LG Ditchfield's absence.

13 - 23

Nothing to report.

Kimberley,

24

Personnel on leave advised of extension due to the grant of Privilege Leave.

25 - 26

Nothing to report.

27

Third party sent on leave.

28 - 31

Nothing to report.

Kimberley Park WYMONDHAM, Nfk.

1

Battery on leave except for a small maintenance party. Fatigues and
general camp duties.

2

Fatigues etc.

3

Personnel on leave advised of extension of seven days Privilege Leave.
Additional ration coupons despatched.

4 to 10

Fatigues and general camp duties.

11

Bty returned from leave.

12

Organisation and preparation of future training. Capt IS Hampton to attend Camouflage Course in NORWICH.

13

Church Parades.

14

Anticipating the arrival of equipment it is decided to provide adequate

hard standing ground. Arrangements made with local gravel pits to supply hard core. Capt DP Fitzgerald and four ORs left for course of

instruction on "Assault Boating".

14

Bty's guns arrived. Capt IS Hampton returned from course. General
fatigues and maintenance, including work on the hard standing ground.

15

Four Dvr/Ops despatched to joint course at RMYL. 2/Lt. D Boggie RA left to join 17-pr conversion course at LARKHILL

Kimberley Park WYMONDHAM.

16

General fatigues and maintenance. Weather very poor, rain and very cold.

17

Commander in Chief, General Sir BL Montgomery, inspected the Divisional

Artillery at LETTON HALL. Weather - cold.

18

BSM and one Sgt despatched with driver to collect M/Cycles at BARTON on HUMBER. Weather - sleet, very cold.

19

Personnel Selection Team visited the Bty and commenced examining the Bty's personnel who were detailed to attend in two squads. A board consisting of 3 Sgts and an Officer detailed to assess each man in a grading test.

Weather - very cold.

20

Lieut Osmond RA posted to this Bty. Took comd of "B" Troop in the absence of Lieut FL Rosenfeld RA. Church Parades. Weather - bright but cold.

21

Training Programme in operation including Gun Drill. Hard Standing still receiving attention. Personnel not available on the 19th examined by the Personnel Selection Board. Weather - bright but cold. General fatigues and camp duties.

22

Training. Hard standing work in progress. Camp fatigues. Weather - cold.

23

Training. Camp fatigues etc. Soccer match against RHQ in afternoon.
Weather - bright.

24

His Majesty the King inspected the Reg't with the Divisional Artillery at Hillborough Hall. Weather - cold and sunny.

Kimberley Park. WYMONDHAM, Nfk.

25

Training. Maintenance. Work continued on the Hard Standing Ground.

Lieut Osmond RA left for RAMT School at RHYL for maintenance course.
Weather - cold and wet.

26

Training continued. Inspections of Bty Area and Billets. Weather - cold.

27

RC Church Parade. Bty resting. Weather bright but cold.

28

Second Training Programme prepared and in force. Hard Standing stillcunder construction. Maximum strength on parades and training.
Weather - bright.

29

Training as Programme. Hard Standing. Camp fatigues. Weather - cold.

Kimberley Park, WYMONDHAM, Nflk.

1

Preparation for 131 Bde Exercise "SHUDDER". Moved off to concentration area.
Weather Fine and Sunny. Strength 6 and 185.

2

Bty under comd of Regt in Bde Scheme. Concentrated in area NARFORD (sheet No.66 227323) at 1900 hrs. Netted radios to Regt. Weather Wet.

Strength 7 and 186.

3

Bty moved with battle to HALL FARM (Sheet 66 332166) at 1700. Bty handed over to 259 Bty and then proceeded to WEETING HALL arriving atv 2100 hrs.

Weather Wet. Strength 7 and 185.

4

Reveille 0445 hrs. Bty moved off for HOLME RANGES at 0615 hrs. Shoot commenced at 1000 hrs. All guns were zeroed. Nos. 1. need more training in target indication. Weather - fine. 3 guns received minot corrections Remainder of Bty moved from WEETING HALL back to KIMBERLEY PARK.

Strength 7 and 185.

5

Maintenance and Winching Drill. Heavy rain interfered with remainder of  out-door training. Dvr/Mechs commenced waterproofing instruction under

Capt PH Stewart RA. Weather Wet. Strength 7 and 185.

6

Training including:- Gun Drill, Winching
Drill, Miniature Range and Maintenance. Strength 7 and 184. Weather Fine

7

B.C'S TEWT in area of CASTLE RISING (Sheet 9 Square 1243) with 131 Bde.

Training included:- Manhandling, Gun Drill, Rifle and Marching Drill.
Weather - Dull. Strength 7 and 189.

Place

Date

Hour

Summary of Events and Information

KIMBERLEY PARK, WYMONDHAM, Nfly.

8

Maj Gen Gordon-Finlaysen (Col. Comdt.RA) visited the Bty., and inspected guns and personnel and watched the Bty training. The gen commented upon the bearing and turn-out of the Bty. He afterwards addressed the Regt upon the RA Benevolent and other funds. Weather fine. Strength 7 and 189.

9

Easter Day is declared a Holiday for the whole Division. Church Parades.
Weather Bright but Showery. Strength 7 and 189.

10

B.C. on TEWT with 8 Hussars to discuss the protective flank screen with M 10s and Tks. Lieut D Boggie RA accompanied the B.C. and represented the Bty as supporting the R.B. Bty training. Tp Comds carried out AB 406 inspection upon vehicles. Weather Fine. Strength 7 and 189.

11

Tp Comds TENT at CASTLE RISING (Sheet 9 Square 1243). Bty training including construction of gun pits, Gun and Quad Drill. Weather Fine.

Strength 7 and 189.

12

Training including: - Quad inching Drill, Tp Comds and Nos. 1. manhandling instruction by PT Instructor. Weather Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

B.

"A" & "B" Tps firing of Brens, Stens and Rifles at THETFORD Ranges.

"C" followed in the afternoon. Weather Sunny. Strength 7 and 190.

14

Training including:- Gun and Winching Drill, Signalling and MT Lectures.
Weather - Rainy and Overcast. Strength 7 and 190.

15

B.C attended conference at DIDLINGTON. Bty Gun Drill and Maintenance.

Troop football matches in afternoon. Weather Showery. V Strength 7 and 191.

Kimberley Park, WYMONDHAM, Nflk.

16

Church Parades. Weather - Showery and Overcast. Strength 7 and 193.

17

Training in Winching and Corrections on Miniature Range. .22 Range and Map Reading. Firing of 2" Mortar and PIAT. 2. ORs posted to RHQ.

Weather - Fine but Cold. Strength 7 and 189.

18

"A" & "B" Troops manhandling 17-pr on to Class 5 Raft and rowing across the lake at DIDLINGTON. Tactical signs being painted onto vehicles.

4 No. 19 Sets received and were taken into training. Weather Sunny.
Strength 7 and 189.

19

"C" Troop practiced rafting on lake at DIDLINGTON. The No.5 Raft was

found to take the 17-pr quite easily and a drill was easily devised.
Regtl Dance in evening. Weather Fine. Strength 7 and 189.

20

W/T sets fitted in Carriers AOP. Practice with 2" Mortar using Illuminating Flares and PIAT Mortar. Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

21

The use of Trail Skids for 17-prs was investigated. It was found that the best permanent position for the carriage of the skids was on the trails and that this position did not hamper the drill of going into action.

The winching drill was facilitated. 3x3 Tenners handed over to the Bty.and were allocated to Tps. Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

22

Inspections of Guns, Vehicles and Camp Area. Maintenance of Guns and Vehicles exceptionally good but Barrack Rooms were below standard. Weather Cold.

Strength - 7 and 190.

Kimberley Park, WYMONDHAM, Nfik.

23

Church Parades. Weather - Overcast. Strength 7 and 190.

24

Training including:- Winching Drill, Miniature Range, Lecture upon

First Aid and use of Shell Dressings, and Maintenance. Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

25

"C" Troop TEWT upon formation of protective Screen. W/T scheme using Carriers AOP. Strength 7 and 190.

26

"A" Tp. TEWT upon protective screen. Remainder Winching Drill, Miniature Range. Remainder of personnel who have not been warned for service o'seas received the warning and signed the roll. Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

27

Battery packing parade. Standard methods of packing were demonstrated. The loading was accomplished with the scale of vehs laid down.

Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

28

"B" Tp. TEWT in area of HARLING - Nos. 1 were instructed in the use of ground.
Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

29

Inspections of Guns, Vehs and Camp Area. Standard of maintenance has greatly improved. Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

30

Church Parades. Weather - Fine. Strength 7 and 190.

June 1944

Commanding Officer:  Major HS Cranfieild R.A.

Plac

Date

Hour

Summary of Events and Information

References to Appendices

1 - 16

BRICQUESSARD

Village

17

Major LG Ditchfield RA killed by 88 mm shell landing directly upon the Bantam in which he was travelling. Lieut DC Osmond RA evacuated suffering from exhaustion. Gnr Crowe killed by small arms fire from an enemy patrol. Orders for the withdrawal from the village of BRICQUESSARD issued. Before the plan came into operation enemy attacked and infiltrated into our lines in strength/ Presumed were with drawn according to plan buy there were certain losses in equipment.. The following ORs were evacuated with gunshot wounds@= Gnrs Bloomfield, Mawby, Lane, White H., Lanhton, Kelly WPM. Whitehouse and Beascroft. The following  were evacuated with exhaustion:=, Gnrs Bex, Eastwood and McNeil.

BOIS de BRICQUESSARD

18

Major HS Cranfieild RA assumed comd of the Bty., Capt DF Fitsgerald RA., returned to "B" Echelon for resting. Capt LOG Swain attached to Bty., as "G" Gapt. "A" Trops under comd of Lieut HM Williams RA took up posstns under comd  of 1/6th Queens in the area of the BOIS de BRICQUESSARD (7360). Intermittent shelling and mortar fire - our artillery and mortars were very active. "Troop place under Comd of 260 Bty.

As above

19

16 ORs - reinforcements arrived.

As above

20

Guns of "A" Troops in action with 1/6th Queens - detachments relived by personnel from "B" and "C" Troops. Gnrs Melville and Holme evacuated sick.

As above

21

Indents for replacements f=of personnel and equipment completed and submitted to RHQ.

BOIS de BRICQUESSARD

22

Enemy shelled Bty HQ - damaged two vehs. Shelling and mortaring continuous in the BOIS de BRICQUESSARD - 1/6th amn truck hit and burned out - two reinforcements posted back to Reinforcement Ca,p.

As above

23

Gnr Kings evacuated with exhaustion. Relief of the detachments in the BOIS de BRICQUESSARD continues. More shells on Bty HQ - no damage or casualties.

24

No changes. Further guns to be committed with 1/5th Queens in the area of LIVRY (7361) - Le BOBA RENARD (7461). Lieut J Vine RA took his ("B") Troop plus three guns of "C" Troops to this area. 1 Troop 258 Bty placed under comd.

25

Lirut PH Strwart RA joins Bty from RHA and takes over comd of "A" Troop/ Lieut J Vine posted tp 258 Bty upon promotion to Capt. Lieut D Boggie RA takes over comd of th guns in the BOIS de BRICQUESSARD area. Short service held at the LIVrt Chateau - conducted by the Regtl Padre Gapt G Briggs CP.

26

Tac HQ moved to area of Bn HQ - 1/5th Queens, complete Bty in action.

27

"A" shelled and heavilt mortar - the following casualties occurred:- Killed - 1839974 Gnr Hunter GAW and 1818585Gnr Evans. Wounded and evacutaed - 1085739 Gnr Baker C., 943631 Gnr Tyser J., 37818187 Gnr Harte P. 14609756 Gnr Norris C. Evacuated with exhaustion  - 1700472 Dvr Chapman A. Fortunately our RMO was on the spot and attended to the wounded. The Regtl Padre buries our two dead. 1 x 3 Tonner hit and burned out.

BOIS de BRICQUESSARD and area

28

"A" Echelon moved about 300 yds back. 1/8th Queens sent out fighting patrol during the nioght 27/28 - captured one prisone but no identification could be obtained from him - enemy guns again active. 2 ORs slightly wounded but stayed on duty.

As above

29

No change in situation.

As above

30

Tac HQ moved to new area - still with Bn HQ 1/5th Queens. 14501113 Gnr Mandevile evacuated wounded. No further changes.

As stated in text

1

2

August 1944

Commanding Officer:  Major HS Cranfieild R.A. .

Place

Date

Hour

Summary of Events and Information

References to Appendices

SW of GAUMONT (702595) and as stated in text

1,

Reveille 0700 hrs with everything prepared to moce by 0800 hrs. Move off at 1230 hrs following 259th Bty., to area as under "Place" in margin/ Move off again at 1600 hrs taking the guns to an "F" Group R.V. just North of CAHAYHIIS (718571).  Troop Comdrs have attended "O" Gp. of 1/6 QUEENS. Warn to move the guns up to te deployment area at 30 minute's notice. Posn remains unchanged until the B.C., orders that the guns be prepared to move up at first light 2 Aug. The period front 2230 hrs until 0030 2 Aug was used by enemy aircraft which dropped "butterfly bombs"/

As stated in text.

2.

Reveille 0800 hrs/ Guns moved off at 0545 hrs to area 736547 which is occupied by 1/6th QUEENS; Intermittent enemy shelling throughout the day. One of the "Butterfly bombs" dropped by the enemy planes penetrated the good of the Jeep in which Gnr Jessop C. was traveling, wounding him, he die from received, later in the day. At 1700 hrs we learn that 1/6 QUEENS are to put in a night attack though the area held by 1/5 with the objectives at 793518 and 794596, to secure the high ground. The attack us to commence at 2359 hrs with a forming-up point and Start Point at 776524. Our guns will follow re-organisation group, only essential command vehicles and towers will be taken. Orders Group assembles at 1/6 QUEENS H.Q. at 2045 hrs and B.C., holds his "O" Group immediately afterwards at 2130 hrs. The guns move out at 2330 hrs.

As stated in text.

3.

A long night march followed with many halts en route. The attack is preceeded by a barrage and it is most successful in every way. The Infy arrived on their objective at about 0300 hrs. Tp Comds go forward at 0400 hrs with B.C. A quick A tk recce is carried out in the moon-light. "F" Group is called fwd at 0445 hrs and the guns are deployed by first light. Tac HQ is established in the farm building in the area 785519. Quite a number of prisones are seen to be coming back. The capture of the cross roads at 713518 was a complete surprise to the enemy and his tpt continued to arrive from the North at 0630 hrs., this resulted in three enemy vehs being captured by the Bty (with two of them being repairable) and upwards of 50 PoW for 1/6 QUEENS. Fairly quite morning with intermittent arty fire from both sides. Some S.A fire too. His observation onto fwd slope posns was good and at least five of our guns were subjected to accurate shell and mortar fie and then the detachments were pinned to the ground with accrete and heavy S.A fire.

The result of this fire was a slight withdrawal by 1/6 QUEENS to the area of teh cross roads 766518. we lose 6 guns (fire of are known to be KOd) and nearly the whole of the gun detachments of "C" Troop. Casualti9es during the day were 2 ORs killed, 8 wounded and 20 missing. The B.C. himself was wounded when in the fwd area with Lieut RH Stewart R.A., Tp Comd "A" Troop, endeavouring to restore the situation and cheer on the men. By 1900 hrs we were firmly established om teh cross roads at 795518 with the depleted 1/6 Bn QUEENS and our 6 A tk guns.  Heavy enemy shelling during the evening together with frequent attention from his Nebelwefers. AT 2300 hrs OC 1/6 Queens holds an "O" Group the result of which is a withdrawal to an area behind 1/6 QUEENS at 767526 for the night and the occupation of fresh posns to-morrow. Sgt SCOBIE J. smocked out a Mk IV during the action in the afternoon, it "brewed up" upon teh second shot. 

Capt E, V, OAKES M.C. R.A. assumed command of the Battery at 2200 hrs, Lieut S HONEYMAN R.A., was wounded but stayed at duty.

As stated in text.

4.

our withdrawal commences at 0100 hrs and proceeds acceding to plan. It is rumoured that tks and infy are approaching our posns from the South West, but all is quiet when we leave. Deb down at about 0230 hrs and Reveille is at 0700 hrs. We move fwd again at 0830 hrs. 1.6 QUEENS "O" Gp. is held at 0915 hrs. B.C. and Tp Comds recce new posns in area 780530 at 1000 hrs. Posns are on the Northern flank of 1/3 QUEENS. "F" Go which consist of 6 guns only is taken fwd at 1030 hrs ad 5 guns are immediately deployed. The remain 2 guns are not committed at this stage since we have si 6-pdrs of the 1/6 QUEENS in posn. Later in the day one further 17-[r is place in posn on our left to tie up with 259h Bty, Intermitted shelling and mortaring throughout day for 2100 hrs all, is very quiet. A further "O" Group is orderd for 2100 hrs, The reason for the unusable silences is explained by the enemy being in full retreat and we are cracking on after him to-morrow at first liught 5 Aug,

As stated in text.

6.

WE eventually arrive in our new fwd concentration area at 0300 hrs (815547 Deb down until 0600 hrs and will be ready to move by 0700 hrs. The day is spent doing as much maintenance as possible but remain at 1 hour's notice to move the whole time. At 2300 hrs we learn that there will be no move fwd until 0700 hrs 7 Aug. Bed down at 2300 hrs with reveille at 0600 hrs and ready to move by 0700 hrs.

As stated in text.

7.

At 0800 hrs we are told that any movement fws before 1200 hrs is unlikely. Morning used for maintenance. At 1400 hrs we move fwd again, no longer under comd of 1/6 Queens having reverted to Regtl Comd. Our new area is at 862517 where we arrive at 1630 hrs. Q vert pleasant spot with some French civilians and bombing. It was expected that we would spend the night here but we are warned to be prepare to move on 15 minute's nitc. The order of preparations is cancelled as 259th Bty., have been allotted the task previously given to the Bty. At 2100 hrs we lean that we are to move fwd wth 22 Armd Bde to-morrow, together with 260 Bty. At 2100 hrs the B.C. contacts B.C. of 260th Bty. The B.C. addresses the personnel of the Bty at 2200 hrs explaining the plan. The Div is attacked along two routes - 22 Armd Bde on one and 131 (Queens) Infy Bde on the other (less1.5th Queens). The Objective is CONDE SUR NOIREAU with a firm bse to made on the high ground around Pt 255 at 866368. Revoke will be at 0600 hrs - ready to move at 0700 hrs.

As stated in text.

8.

We rise at 0600 hrs and are ready to move at 0700 hrs. The morning wears on with no sign of movement. According to reports reaching us, teh shelling of the road in the area of teh cross roads at LA VALLEE (8847) is too heavy to permit the passage of soft skinned vehicles, al though tanks can get thro' with the utmost care. At 1300 hrs the B.C. decides that we shall move fwd in order that we can be close at had in case of need. Accordingly,, at 1430 hrs we move to area 877507. The support Cot of the RIFLE BDE are again moving fwd and we are now under their comd and accompany them to am area South of BONNEMAISON at 864488 where we arrive at about 2100 hrs. No further news is available and we bed down for the night at 2330 hrs with Reveille order for 0600 hrs. 9 Aug.

As stated in text.

9.

Nothing happens during the day and we carry out maintenance, including personal maintenance. The B.C. contacts R.H.Q. and we are briefed for an operation for an operation with 1/5 QUEENS to-night. Tp Comds proceed on recce at 1700 hrs and "F" Group moved fwd at 2000 hrs. On arrival at CAMPANERE VALCONGRAIN (851464) we are told to disperse in the area and bed down. Reveille ordered for 0600 hrs 10 Aug.

       as above

10

We learn that the whole Dov is to be pulled out of the line for a rest

as above

14

"C" Troop turn to spend the day at the coast. The BC is inspecting every troop thoroughlyin turn. "A" Tp was inspected yesterdag and "B" Tp is being inspected to-day. Baths cinemas and ENSA shows continue.

as above

15

We learn that we are likely to remain in our present area for another 4 days and that training is to commence. A confer end is held at 2100 hrs and a training policy is laid down, "C" Troop's equipment was inspected at 1700 hrs. Parties from the Rest Camp return having had a very enjoyable time, We send another party of ORs to it.

as above

16

At 0200 hrs we are awakened by the IO who informs us that we are to be prepared to move at 0630 hrs. Reveille is fixed for 0300 hrs. We are all ready to move at 0645 hrs but learn that our time across the Start Pint is not until 0845 hrs. We move off behind 257th Bty., at about 0915 hrs vua AUNAY SUR ODON -, VILLERS BOCAGE - NOYERS - VERSUN - ETERVILLE - GRAMESNIL to an area just South of CONTEVILLE (1122570)/ Here we ;earn that we are under comd of 1st Corps with 51 (H) Div and 49 Div. We are on 30 mins notice to move and remain so until "O" Gp is called at 2230 hrs when we learn that we may bed down and be prepares to move at 30 mins notice w.e.f 0630 hrs 17 Aug. The germral ides is so far as we can gather is for the Div to pass through 49 and 51 Divs and try tp reach LISIEUX where there ares bridge being used by the enemy in the line of his retreat, the town os an important raid and road centre.

as above

17

We are ready to move at 0630 hrs and the B.C  attend "O" Group at this time. we learn that we are under comd 22 Armd Bde. Movement is unlikely before  1200 hrs. 131 Bde are to make the initial advance owing to the nature pf the country/ A quiet day and we finally move off behind 1 RTR at 1900 hrs arriving our new concentration area a BECURES sue FAVIERES at 228500 about 2230 hrs. A visit to Bde is mad and it is found that no furthermovement is likely to be made until first light 19 Aug, Reveilles is ordered for 0530 hrs and the Bty beds down at 2345 hrs. Enemy aircraft are active throughout the night - no bombs are dropped is our immediate area.

as above

18

We are ready to moe at 0600 hrs but no move is received until 1130 hrs when we hear that movement across the river DIVES about 1300 hrs. We move off at 1400 hrs behind 22 Armd Bde HQ. We cross the River and concentrate in an area of SE of St PIERRE SUR DIVES (262483). The few civilians remaining in the towns are pleased to see us. The town has not been badly damaged/ We remain under comd 22 Armd Bde and posns for "stop line" are recced - guns will not be placed in posn unless necessary. Bed down at 2330 hrs and fix reveille for 0600 hrs. It appears the night is going to be a noisy one - many aircraft are about at 2345 hrs. The new Commanding officer joins ys to-day and visited the Bty at about 2115.

as above

19

The night was very noisy and many bombs were dropped near BHQ but damage or causalities were caused. We remain in our present location until about 1530 hrs and we are placed under comd of 1 RB, and will do an attack with them. We pull out at about 1700 hrs and move up to teh area ST MICHEL DE LIVERY (4348) with Tac HQ established in the farm blgs at 435488. The Tps are deployed around the e just for the night less "B" Tp which are attached 259 Bty. Bombs are again dropped during the night in our general area but no damage or casualties are caused..

As stated in text.

20

The Troops move down to the area of LIVAROT which has been liberated by MAQUIS action during the previous night with 1 R.B. deployed around the area East of LIVAROT. "C" Tp with "C" Coy and "A" Tp with "A" Coy. "B" Troop is still attached to 259 Bty. We find an abandoned half rack vehicle ad the Bty fitters are instructed to recover it. The people of LIVAROT are pleased to see us and the town itself is not too badly battered. The enemy shell and mortar us but not on a large scale. Certain houses in LIVAROT blow up for apparently no reason at all. We were assured by a civilian matron that ROMMEL was dead and was prepared to show us his grave but unfortunately the was not sufficient time for us to investigate the story. Tac HQ is established at 487485 in an orchard. 1/6 Queens take over from 1st RB.

       as above

21

It rained during the night and the Bty was soaked. About 0830 hrs the enemy counter attacked using S.S. troops. "A" Coy HQ of the 1/6 Queens was knocked out with an HE shell from a tank and one 6=pr guarding the rear of "C" Toop HQ was over-run by enemy infy - one man able to escape, Dvr Mech Cartledge and we were able to learn what happened from him. His Tp Comdr and To Sgt were visiting the guns warning them of enemy tks which were in the area when quite suddenly teh German infy appeared in some strength amd over-rrun their HQ. So far as Gnr Cartledge could tell they were all made PW although to his certain knowledge Gnr Bennett teh carrier driver s wounded, being shot by the Germans since he did no respond quickly enough to their order for him to get out of the trench The counter attack was purely local and did not alters the general situation. 

The remainder of the day ws quite with numbers of PoW coming in. The enemy drove one of our Quads and Jeeps away/ At 1900 hs we learn that 1/6 Queens are to hold teh bridgehead at LIVAROT on its own with the Bty under comd. Posn are rearranged and Tac HQ move back to HQ 1/ Queens for night in the Château at 447475.

As stated in text.

22

At 0015 we learn that the CANADIANS are relieving us in the sector but will not do  so until first light as it is too dark to effect the change. The night is quiet and the relief commences at about 0700 hrs. Our guns are relieved at 0900 hrs and we pull North for about three miles to area 514815. During the morning we recover "C" Tp's carrier, M/cycle and gun as the enemy has again been forced to withdraw. We also find Gnr Bemmett who has  been left behind by the enemy in a chateau waiting for one of our patrols to find him.

It is not possible to question him as he has to be evacuated quickly. At 1500 hrs we again move North towards LISIEUX and eventually pull into some fieldsat about 523836 where we spend a quiet night. The 51 (H) Inf Div is in teh process of cleaning up LISIEUX. As soon as this task is accomplished we shall pass through the town to the East. We also found :L/Bdr Hamilton, "C" Troop's Dvr Operator, shot through the hear, presumably whist trying to escape.

As stated in Text

1

The BC and 2 IC visit all guns at Stand-To as a result of which certain changes in lay-out are made. At 1200 hrs the BC is called to a conference with 1/6 QUEENS the result of which is a complete change in our deployment. "A" Tp is back under our comd and 1/7 QUEENS are coming in on our Right to link up with 22 Armd Bde. The complete lay-out will now be roughly as follows:- (1) An AMERICAN airborne Bn around HEESWIJK (4241) (2) 1/6 QUEENS in area on their Right 4244 (3) 1/7 QUEENS on Right of 1/6 QUEENS in area 4246 (4) 22 Armd Bde on right 1/7 QUEENS and responsible for the area from the bridge at VINKEL (423473) to OSS (4754). We have one tp ("A" Tp) in support of 1/7 QUEENS and two tps ("B" & "C") in support of 1/6 QUEENS.

Final dispositions are not completed until dusk and there probably will be slight revisions to be made at first light to-morrow. Tp HQs are now as

follows:- all in farm bldgs, "A" 427457, "B" 436445 and "C" 423438. We bed down early the night is punctuated with Arty fire - most of it ours.

Reveille is ordered for 0500 hrs with Stand-To at 0515 hrs.

as above

2

Further slight alterations in lay-out are made but on the whole we remain in our previous general areas. One Tp of 258 is placed under our comd and is sited in our Right locality in area 1/7 QUEENS. So also is a Tp of 260 Bty placed under comd and is sited on our left flank in support of 1/6 QUEENS. Intermittent Arty fire from both sides throughout the day but nothing very serious from either side. Night patrolling on an offensive scale is carried out by both the enemy and our own infy.

as above

3

The weather to-day shows signs of deterioration and of winter setting in.

The rain is heavy and the resultant mud is very deep. One gun of "B" Tp is moved out to a depth posn but otherwise the dispositions remain the same.Arty active - mostly enemy to-day, but well to our Left flank. Night patrolling again continues on a largish scale.

As stated in Text

4

Nothing to report to-day. Rather quieter than usual from the arty aspect and patrolling is on a small scale only. The weather continues to be wintry with rain and cold winds.

as above

5

The Med Regt and Bty of Heavy Guns (155 mm s) were very active last night.

They are sited immediately behind us and many of the windows of the bldg we occupy are either broken or cracked. Patrolling on quite and extensive scale is again undertaken by the opposing infy but apart from the odd exchange of fire nothing developes. The weather is slightly better to-day and the sun shows itself.

as above

6

Still there is no change in the situation. Weather is again poor and with tk patrol activity the tracks are very bad. Fortunately our guns are sited near farmhouses and the detachments are able to take cover from the rain. The detachments which are not sited near houses have dug themselves in and waterproofed the dug-outs. Digging in this soil is very easy, the soil being very light.

as above

7

We learn that 1/6 QUEENS are being relieved by 1/5 to-morrow but existing localities are remaining unchanged except for a few odd platoon sections.Throughout last night enemy arty was again active but still on our Left nd mostly falling in the DINTHER area. It seems that we are liable to remain here for a further seven to ten days just holding the area.

Patrolling is to be continued on an offensive scale.

as above

8

The relief of 1/6 QUEENS by 1/5 takes place during the afternoon and we are obliged to alter one of our gun posns and this however fits in with our general plans for the BC decides that our fwd guns must now be moved to alternative posns. Tp Comds are instructed to take the necessary action at last light to-night. Alternative posns are being dug during to-day.Arty activity is on a smaller scale and patrols less extensive.

As stated in Text

9

We dedide that it is time to move our own HQ and find a suitable farm bldg in the LOOSBROEK area at 455450. Tac HQ moves amidst rain at 1600 hrs. We learn to-day that we might be required to do some night firing in the form of harassing fire. One gun per Tp will do this on successive nights out targets being fixed by HQ 131 (QUEENS) Bde. This is good news and the detachments are all very keen to "let fly".

As above

10

Arty fire from both sides was very plentiful last night. Patrolling was less extensive. Tonight we are to carry out our first harassing fire task on the road from S HERTOGENBOSCH (3246) to cross roads 3645. We are assisted by the surveyors of 3 RHA who select a gun site for us at 444428. "C" Tp provide a gun and detachments. A programme is constructed which indludes both AP and HE amn and which commences at 2000 hrs and finishes at 0500 hrs 11 Oct 44. We evolve a drill for night firing and give instruction to the detachments on the use of the Fld Clinometer.

as above

11

Last night's shoot went off very well indeed and increased the morale of the detachment concerned 100 % Whilst we cannot claim any "brews up" it must have been very unpleasant at the receiving end judging by the resounding bang of the HE exploding and the weird noise created by the AP whisling over. Apart from this, there is little fresh to report. All guns in the Bty have now been moved to alternative posns and the more fwd detachments changed round to have a spell on a depth gun. We are again to carry out another harassing shoot to-night.

above

12

"A" TP provided the gun and detachment for last night's shoot and the gun posn used was the same as before and the target the houses in the area of BEKLIEUM which is known are occupied by enemy tps. The shoot, on this occasion commenced at 2015 hrs and terminated at 0335 hrs 13 Oct. HE and AP were again fired and a total of 68 rds in all. A most successful shoot.

A most successful shoot in which we were able to claim at least one "brew up "of a fairly large size. A further shoot is to take place to-night
with "B" Tp providing the gun and detachment. Again there is nothing fresh to report.

13

Another successful shoot from a posn which was surveyed for us by a "pukka" survey section. We had three targets - rd junctn 368462, road from 375457 and road from 378455. Our posn is at 437460. Altogther 63 rds were fired, including both AP and HE. Although there were no "brews up" seen there was plenty of noise and it must have caused the enemy another unpleasant night. There is no fresh developement on our front during the day. Offensive patrolling is again to carried out during the night by both 1/5 and 1/7 QUEENS.

14

We have one offr and five ORs attached to-day from 63rd (Oxfordshire Yeo) A tk Regt RA for a period of nine days for "battle innoculation". The offr, a Capt, is to remain on Tac HQ whilst the ORs are attached to the three Tps. They are apparently to take over from a Corps Regt in due course and are at the moment concentrated in the area of LOUVAIN without any equipment.We are visited by the 2 IC of 259 Bty., who are to continue the good work of the harassing fire, and the visit is to get the shooting fixed up. We hear also that the 1/6 QUEENS are likely to relieve the 1/7 QUEENS on the Right of our area

15

1/6 QUEENS do in fact relieve the 1/7 QUEENS during the evening of to-day. During the morning 1/7 QUEENS sent out a very successful fighting patrol which bumped into a strong enemy patrol or patrols and succeeded in inflicting 12 casualties on the enemy without loss to themselves. A carrier section of this Bn also had a good shoot against an enemy patrol during the early hours of this morning, killing 1, wounding 3 and taking 1 PW. "A" Tp's gun posns

"A" Tp's gun posns are re-organised to-day as the S.P. Tp of 258 Bty deployed in this area are to be withdrawn out of the posns and used as a mobile reserve in the event of an alarm. Fresh posns are dug during the day and will be occupied at first light to-morrow morning

16

Nothing fresh to report - a quiet day. "A" Tps new posns are occupied at first light. We are given vacancies for two ENSA shows at UDEN (5242) which are allotted on the basis of four per Tp - 2 Tac HQ and 2 A Ech. Shelling is intermittent throughout the day and some 88s or 75s drop in "A" Tp's area causing no damage or casualties.

17

Tac HQ again moves - only if matter of a 100 yds - but better accomodation is found in another bldg. Nothing fresh to report.

18

258 Bty HQ moves into our area during the day and their Tp under our comd reverts to their own comd. Also a Tp of this Bty relieves a Tp of 260 Bty on our Right. We hear rumours of a forthcoming attack in the S HERTOGENBOSCH area but so far they are not in any way confirmed. Arty activity again heavy but again to our Left in the DINTHER area.

19

We learn that an attack is definitely going to take place with a push towards S' HERTOGENBOSCH area and that it is likely to start on SUNDAY 22 Oct. No orders have yet been received but there are elements of the 15 SCOTTISH Div and 53 (W) Div in our area and it is obvious that something is about to happen. Activity along the front is not great apart from a small amount of mortaring during the night.

20

BC attends an "O" Gp at 260 Bty where our CO gives the general picture. 131 (QUEENS) Bde is to attack towards S' HERTOGENBOSCH on SUNDAY 22 Oct. Objectives are limited. On our Right will be 53 (W) Div and on our Left and on our Left 51 (H) Div. 53 (W) Div is to put in an attack at the same time as us but an attack by 51 (H) Div will not take place until MONDAY. We shall be in support of 131 Bde and probably in reserve as 258 Bty will do the actual support whilst the attack is materialising, apart from this, there is nothing further to report.

21

The BC is called to an "O" Gp with the Colonel at 1200 hrs. During the morning there is much movement in our area with Fld Guns, Tks etc., moving up in preparation for to-morrows attack. BC calls his own "O" Gp at 1415 hrs from which we learn that the attack is to be made in four phases. First an advance by 1/7 QUEENS to take MIDDELRODE (3943) - followed by 1/5 QUEENS on their Right directed on DOORNHOEK (3844). If these two attacks are successful 1/6 QUEENS will follow through on Right 1/5 QUEENS. This Bty will become Bde reserve and 258 (SP) Bty will support the attack with one Tp with 1/5 QUEENS and two Tps with 1/6 QUEENS. The arty programme is large and commences with CB on a known enemy gun areas at 0200 hrs to-morrow.

22

We are awakened early with the sounds of heavy gunfire as our guns start their pre-arranged shoot at 0200 hrs. 1/7 QUEENS attack commences at 0630 hrs and progresses slowly but surely. 1/5 QUEENS start operations at 0900 hrs and also gain quite a lot of ground but the advance is delayed by extensive mining which has been carried out by the enemy. 1/6 QUEENS do not start operations to-day therefore but concentrate in area 403452 to commence their attack to-morrow morning. There posns on the ground have been taken over by 1 Sqdrn 8 Hussars and "A" Tp who are principally concerned are to leaguer with 8 Hussars to-night. Our remaining 2 Tps will remain on the ground as infy are now well in front of them. Tac HQ remains in same posn though BC will spend the night at Tac HQ 8 Hussars.

As stated in Text

23

The attacks by 1/5 and 1/6 QUEENS proceed well and by mid-day both Bns have tps on their final objectives. We learn too that the attack by the 53 (W) Div on our Right is going along very well and that their line is at least level with ours if not ahead. The arty preparation for the attack by 51(H) Div on our Left started this morning. The attack seems to be going along very well and there does not seem to be quite such heavy opposition as was, at first, expected. Our own activities change little - "B" and "C" Tps are leaguered about 1600 hrs in their own areas. A Tp remains in posn with 1 Sqdn 8 Hussars who are to be relieved by 1 Coy of Royal SCOTS FUSILIERS of 15 (Scottish) Div. This Coy does not arrive however until about 2100 hrs so that 8 Hussars remain in posn and "A" Tp leaguers with them on the same basis as last night. 2 IC sleeps at 8 Hussars' Tac HQ. The night is quiet.

24

"A" Tp remain in posn until 1230hrs when the Infy Coy is withdrawn. "B" and "C" Tps are concentrated in the area of LOOSBROEK with Tac HQ and are joined by "A" Tp at 1500 hrs. At 1600 hrs "B." Tp is sent out on a job with 1/7 QUEENS. 1/7 QUEENS are to come under comd 22 Armd Bde on the next stage of the operations. They expect to move at first light to-morrow. Otherwise, maintenance and general cleaning up becomes priority jobs for HQ "A" and "C" Tps

25

We spend a quiet night. At 1000 hrs we receive a warning order to move. The Regt., less 260 Bty and "B" Tp of this Bty are to move at H plus 532 H Hour being provisionally fixed for 1000 hrs. As the day wears on, however, H Hour becomes gradually more delayed as the bridgehead established by 51 (H) Div across the river DOMMEL is meeting strong local resistance. Finally 8 Hussars do go across on recce but find the opposition strong. 22 Armd Bde, therefore, find crossings elsewhere farther South and cross during the late hours of the afternoon. 1/7 QUEENS with "B" Tp under comd with "B" Tp under comd move out just before last light. In the meantime,the Regt, less 260 Bty and "B" Tp concentrate in our area at LOOSBROEK for the night. The C.O. dines at Tac HQ.

26

Another quiet night with NTR. Recce parties are called for at 0830 hrs and proceed to a new area just NORTH of BOXTEL (3234). A suitable leaguer area is found around house at 320363 where Tac HQ is established. The Bty moves about 1300 hrs and arrives in the new area about 1530 hrs. We are not required this night and settle down again. Route used by the Bty is as follows:- DINTHER (4341) HEESWIJK (4241) SCHUNDEL (4137) -cross roads 3736 - BOXSTEL (3334) - new area 3236.

27

No orders for a move are received so we continue with maintenance. The battle is going well büt it seems that there are no enemy tanks in our area. We remain in present situation with NTR.

28

Another quiet night with an equally quiet day. Maintenance and general cleaning up continues. "B" Tp remain under comd 1/7 QUEENS who to-day are just outside LOON OP ZAND (1440) They have two guns in action as civilian reports indicate two tanks in the area. These later turned out to be SP guns as was thought in the first place.

29

Recce parties go off at 0900 hrs to find a new leaguer area for the Bty. Lieut HEPPEWHITE takes over comd of "B" Tp from Lieut ARNOLD who is proceeding on a course at the School of Arty LARKHILL. BC proceeds on two days leave to BRUSSELS. We finally move out at 1340 hrs and proceed via the following route to area ENSCHOT (1934) BOXTEL - BEST - OIR ESHOT (3215) - MOERGESTEL (2230) OISTERWIJK (2234) cross roads 223360 road junc 200338

Tac HQ is established in the area 193340 with "A" and "C" Tps and "A "Ech concentrated around it.

As stated in Text

30

Lieut HA ARNOLD R.A. proceeds to join his course in ENGLAND via 33 RHU.

The Bty remains in its present location and is not committed operationally, less "B" Troop who remain under comd of 1/7 QUEENS. They are deployed in an area short of OOSTERHOUT. One of their gun detachments took a PW this morning - they found him cowering in a farm bldg.

31

"B" Tp revert to the comd of the Bty to-day and come back into the Bty concentration area at ENSCHOT, The whole Bty had baths to-day at the No. 1 Mobile Bath Unit, this included "B" Tp on their way back to the Bty.

A slight alteration in billets is made and Tac HQ moves to the Vicarage at 198343 - this makes an excellent BHQ. The BC returns from his short leave at BRUSSELS. Maintenance continues throughout the day. 50 ORs are permitted to attend a picture show at TILBURG.

As stated in Text

1

B.C. returned from leave. Training in A & C tps starts to-day whilst "B" Troop are engaged on maintainance. The weather is extremely cold - quite the coldest we have experienced yet. Officer's Mess established in the vicarage, which although a nice place, suffers from the absence of certain windows - removed by enemy shelling.

as above

2

Training continues in "A" & "C" Tps whilst "B" continues with its maintenance. C.O. inspected our "A" and "B" Echelon vehicles and personnel to-day with a satisfactory result. During his inspection a Flying Bomb flew overhead and with its motor still going, crashed N.W. of TILBURG. 

A discussion is held within the Bty based upon a questionnaire on the 17-pr and recent user experience. Tp Comds, Tp Sgts and Nos 1 attend as a result of which certain suggestions are are submitted to RHQ. Capt PD Balfour R.A. joins the Bty to replace Capt VR Minney RA who is posted to 260th Bty.

As above

3

Training in all Tps proceeds to-day. We are informed that one Tp will be required to shoot in an indirect role in support of an attack being put in by 51st (H) Div across the AFTWATERINGS CANAL. "C" Tp is selected to carry out this task. Visits to TILBURG and the JERBOA CLUB start again.

As above

4

Training during the morning continues with a half day break to follow. "C" Tp's Gun Area is recced in the morning and at 1400 hrs the Tp proceeds to take up its posn. The BC works out shooting programme and remains at HQ 131 (Q) Bde to conduct the shoot. This is quite successful in every way and "C" Tp leaguer for the night 4/5.

As stated in Text

5

"C" Tp returns during the morning whilst the reminder of the Bty occupy themselves with personal maintenance. We prepare a Bty Training Programme
which will commence to-morrow.

The day is otherwise quiet with NTR.

as above

6

Training commences on a Bty basis and goes along very well. BC and 2 IC visit all tps and see training and lectures going on. The weather makes a few alterations in the programmes necessary

Nothing further to report.

as above

7

Training proceeds uninterrupted by the weather. The CRA visits the Bty and tours the area during the af ternoon and had a few words with each Tp.He left the area at 1445 hrs.

as above

8

Training to-day is hampered by very bad weather, being particularly cold and wet. Another discussion on 17-pr, both towed and SP, is held within the Bty as a result of which our suggestions and ideas are forwarded to RHQ. Social functions arranged by 260 Bty and CMP 7 AD were attended by ORs and Officers respectively. Warning order for a move received at 2000 hrs.

as above

9

Recce parties proceed to new area at 0830 hrs and the Bty proceeds on its arranged Training Programme. The weather is again very bad and we have
our first fall of snow and sleet.

as above

10

The Bty moves at 1300 hrs. Regt Order of March is 257 Bty, RHQ, 259 Bty

258 Bty and 260 Bty. Route used is as follows:- TILBURG - POPPEL - Rd Junction 108162 - Cross Rds 3493 - OVERPELT (3892) - Cross Rds 393948 - ST HUBERT (4294) - PETIT BROGEL (4088) - PEER (4084) + Dispersal Pt 408839. Recce parties meet the Bty at DP and lead it to the new area. We are four Quads and Guns short but these can all be accounted for as having mechanical trouble en route. The CO visits the Bty at 2300 hrs. Tac HQ is established in a Bldg at 555843 with Tps concentrated around.

11

By 1130 hrs all our strays from yesterday have turned up. Maintenance continues throughout the day and by evening everything is reasonably ship shape

Nothing further to report.

12

2 IC proceeds on his 48 hrs leave in BRUSSELS. Bty remains in present concentration area and continues with maintainance and training. The
weather is very bad with heavy rain throughout the day.

13

An attack to gain ground up to the RIVER MAAS is being put in to-morrow. It will concern two Corps, but as far as this Div goes only 131 (Q) Bde will be used. The Bty's 12 guns will be used to fire in support. Gun areas are recced during the day and the programme is constructed by the BC.

14

Despito very bad weather the operations are not delayed and will commence at exactly "H" hour - 1600 hrs. All three troops carry out successful shoots. The Gun Drill was noted to have been very good indeed. Out of 360 rds fired there were 48 mis-fires, made up of 26 HE and 22 AP. The infy attack was successful and all objectives were gained in good time. 1/7 QUEENS suffered high casualties - 7 Offrs and 50 ORs, incl 1 Offr killed.

As stated in text

15

Maintainance and training are continued. EME conducted an inquiry into our mis fires and comes to the conclusion that the fault mainly lies with the weak striker springs, which he will arrange to be replaced. A S/Sgt from I.O.O. also inspects the amn and primers in question.

16

Training continues but the bad weather forces us to conduct most of it under cover upon it Troop basis. The CO will visit us tomorror to inspect billets and check on the programme of training.

17

CO visit was successful and "B" tp were specially congratulated on the standard they had achieved. The improved weather permits training can be carried out in the open.

18

We send two ORs from "C" Tp to the JERBOA CLUB at EINDHOVEN. Training continues. Regt plays the Div Sigs at soccer and won 3 - 0, this Bty is represented by two men.

19

Capt C Briggs, the Regtl Chaplain conducts a service for the Bty at 1030 Hrs. Time during the morning is devoted to Internal Economy and the remainder of the day is treated an a holiday.

20

Training continues in bad weather. The LAD have begun to replace weak strike springs in the Firing Mechs. Otherwise NTR.

As stated in Text

21

As there is still no indication of any movement the BC decides to begin a short Cadre Class for the Junior NCOs. The 2 IC prepares suitable
Training Programme. Weather is still very poor with continuous rain.

22

Cadre Course commences but all outdoor activity has to be postponed owing to the very poor weather. Lectures constitute the greater part of the training. Bty concerns itself with SA training mainly.

23

Training continues. An uneventful day with NTR.

24

The White Scout half-track has been modified by the LAD to become the Bty's comd veh and we have taken it over to-day. The Crusader TK, the previous comd veh has been transferred to 258th Bty. 

Training continues.

25

An improvement in the weather permits a good morning's maintenance.

The junior NCOs cadre is active with gun drill and re-drilling.

26

Bty Parade at 1000 hrs - very high standard of turn-out was achieved.

The BC accompanied the CO to select a gun area for another indirect shoot by the Bty. This time the object of the shoot is to test the new springs in the Firing Mechs, each gun is to fire.3 rds HE and 3 rds AP. We have now drawn up low velocity HE amn which reduces the maximum range of the gun for indirect shooting to about 6,900 yds. Shooting programme is prepared and laid on by Tp Comds.

As stated in Text

27

"C" Tp start shooting at 0900 hrs. By 1220 hrs all guns in the Bty have fired and five mis-fires, all HE, are reported out of a total of 69 rds fired.

One gun of "A" Tp is only able to fire its HE rds as a fault developes with the breech mechanism. Upon return to the Bty concentration area the time is devoted to maintenance.

28

It is decided that the gun of "A" Tp which developed breech trouble will gun be fired to-day - the trouble was found to be due to a faulty inter-mediate cocking link. The shoot started at 0830 hrs and fired five rds HE and five rds AP - all rounds being quite satisfactory.The C in C, Fld Marshall Sir Bernard Montgomery KCB DSO is holding an investiture to-day for the Div. The Bty is selected to provide a number of men to attend. Lieut S Honeyman RA of "A" Tp and 28 ORs are selected by the BC. 

The party parades at RHQ at 1015 hrs where the CO selects 20 men. The turn-out of the men was excellent and the Bty is congratulated upon the high standard achieved. Four ORs are allotted vacancies at the Rest Camp in BRUSSELS for 48 hrs leave. The weather has improved and the sun has shone. There is the possibility of a move and recce parties are called to meet the Regtl 2 IC at 0815 hrs to-morrow.

29

Recce parties proceed to an area around SITTARD (6968). The area is at present occupied by the GUARD ARMD DIV, whom, it is understood, we are to relieve. We trod on GERMAN soil for the first time in the area TUDDERN (715698). Tp areas are recced and billeting area fixed. Recce parties return to the Bty area in the evening. The day has been devoted to training and maintenance. All offrs attend an address given by the new Div Comd at 1000 hrs.

As stated in Text

30

Orders are issued for the Bty to be prepared to move by 1400 hrs. Packing commences at 0900 hrs. We are warned that the GRA will visit Tp areas during the course of the morning. BC attends "O" Gp at 22 Armd Bde (of whom we are now under comd) at 1100 hrs but the situation remains vague and the chances of a move to-day remain doubtful.

The CRA,during his visit, confirms this and later in the afternoon we receive a signa ordering us to revert to the comd of the CRA. A further party of 5 ORs are allotted 48 hrs leave vacancies at BRUSSELS.

As stated in Text

1

Training and maintenance continue. The weather is difficult and rain is frequent. BC attends conference at RHQ at 1600 hrs and as a result we learn that we will be in our present location for at least another week.

Training is to be conducted on a Bty basis. BC dines with 6 & 7 Bns Queens to-night - it is a farewell party as we learn that these two Bns are going back to England and are being replaced in 131 Bde by 9 DLI and 2 Devons. We will miss the many friends with whom we have worked for so long.

as above

2

Training and maintenance continue. BC carries out an inspection of "C" Tp to-day. Weather still wet with a high wind blowing. We prepare a Bty Training Programe concentrating on the improvement of Gunnery in general. Visits from Major J Boag MC RA and Capt FW Brown RA.

as above

3

BC continues with his inspections and sees "B" Tp at 1000 hrs. We learn in the early afternoon that it is again probable that we will come under comd of 22 Armd Bde but nothing definite is heard. The inspection of "A" TP is postponed owing to bad weather and the fact that the BC is visiting HQ 22 Armd Bde. at 1430 hrs. It is learned that we will come under comd 22 Armd Bde w.e.f. 1200 hrs 4 Dec. Capt PD Balfour and 1 Sgt attend short MT course which is organised at RHQ. A Regtl trial soccer match is held to select the Regtl side, the Bty has 6 representatives.

as above

4

BC and 2 IC visit the new area to-day and call at Bn HQ 2 RB which is situated at BORN (647719). One To Gun Area is found just West of NIEUSTADT (6873). We also visit a Bty of 21st A tk Regt RA (Gds Amd Div) and make arrangements to take over their accommodation when they evacuate the posns on Wednesday. Training and maintenance continue in the Bty.Today is dry, but extremely cold with a high wind blowing.

as stated in text

5

2 IC and "C" Tp Comd - Lieut D BOGGIE visit new area and select rough Gun Areas. BC attends "O" Gp at 22 Armd Bde HQ. The whole Div is now under comd 30 Corps and Lieut-Gen HORROCKS visits the Regt and has a talk with all BCs. Movement orders arrive at 1900 hrs and it is found that out move will be an early one. "O" Gp is held at 1900 hrs and orders are issued for Reveille at 0615 hrs and move at 0730 hrs. 2 IC and TP Sgts are to proceed ahead to find leaguer area for Tps until Bty of 21 A tk Regt moves out.

as above

6

A successful move is completed via KINROY (6084) NEEROETEREN. (5778) - DILSEN (5972) - LANKLAER (5870) - crossing the R MAAS and so again into HOLLAND at 618687 - X roads (635687) GRAAHEIDE (638709) and so into BORN (6471). Tac HQ is established in the houses about 652716. "C" Tp move off into their new area around NIEUSTADT (6872) at 1600 hrs. In the meantime "B" Tp Comd recces posns in the GERMAN village of MILLEN (7071) and TUDDERN (7071). Those two villages are not strictly in our area but 259 Bty who are in sp of 131 Bde have a very wide area to cover so that "B" will be detached from our direct comd. Recce is completed and the Tp will occupy it's posns at last light to-morrow night (7 Dec). The inf will also effect a change over at thos time, 2 DEVONS relieving the WELSH Gds. The areas are quite quiet generally speaking. "A" Troop will remain in reserve for the time being. Arty fire from both sides during
the night.

as above

7

"C" Tp are now in posn with only three guns committed in action. As the guns are isolated it is decided to increase the strength of the gun detachments and the crew of the fourth detachment is spread over the detachments of the guns in action. "B" Tp take their guns into the village at 1100 hrs but they will not be put into posn until last light. BC recces the two villages with Inf A tk pl comd (6-pr) at 1130 hrs and it is decided that four guns /that four guns shall go into the area at MILLEN and two in TUDDERN,

A reserve area is recced during the day for "A" TP. 2 IC and A Capt visit "B" Troop HQ in MILLEN at 1700 hrs and arríve to-gether with a mortar stonk. About 20 bombs fall in all and cause 2 cas to the Coy of DEVONS in the village. We find that the mortaring was caused by the movement of inf in the village and area. "B" Tp HQ is established in bldgs at MILLEN at 699712. "C" Tp has its HQ in a bldg at 680723. "B" Tp's occupation is successfully accomplished but during the night both MILLEN and TUDDERN are mortared, not heavily but sufficient to cause two cas in "B" Tp. Gnr HERRINGTON received a wound in the Right eye and Gnr ROBERTS in the face.

as above

8

The day dawns bright after a quiet night with NTR. BC visits "C" Tp and MILLEN area at 0800 hrs - 2 IC visits TUIDERN. RHQ establish a Tac HQ at LIMBRICHT (6670). CO calls upon us at 1240 hrs. Limited amount of shelling takes place in NIEUSTADT. The evening is punctuated with slight enemy shelling - probably CB on 5 RHA gun posns sited around the village.

as above

9

Generally quiet throughout the day. "A" Tp's guns are sited in an area N of BORN rather between BUCHTEN (6473) and HOLTUM (6573). Guns do not actually go on the ground, but work on the gun-pits has commenced. The evening is again noisy with arty fire from both sides but no apparent damage is done.

as above

10

About 1100 hrs shells begin landing in MILLEN, they made a very peculiar sound on landing - just a slight "phut" and at first we thought they were duds but they proved to be propaganda shells containing leaflets all of which were very amusing owing to their complete lack of understanding of the BRITISH mind. To- day it is decided that "A" Tp's guns shall be 50% manned in their areas on the ground, it is also decided to strengthen our defences in the MILLEN area. 1 of "A" Tp's guns is placed under comd of "B" TP and /under comd of "B" Tp and sited on the ground at MILLEN. Regtl 24 hrs leave scheme to BRUSSELS commences with two ORs from BHQ and two from "A" Tp leaving at 1200 hrs. CO visits our area during the morning and calls on
all Tps. Shelling of a moderate nature occurs during the evening otherwise

NTR.

as above

11

All tps spend a quiet day with NTR. CO visits Bty at 1500 hrs.

as above

12

Further party proceeds on Regtl 24 hrs leave to BRUSSELS. Very little activity over the front to-day with less arty fire than usual. All Tps visited by BC and 2 IC.

as above

13

Parties for the JERBOA CLUB at EINDHOVEN proceed at 0900 hrs to-day.

Limited activity on the front again to-day. Small scale patrolling by the enemy took place last night and we had a "stand-to" of one hour's duration in the "C" Tp area, otherwise NTR.

as above

14

A fairly quiet day, slight shelling and mortaring only - mostly ours.  BC attends conference at 22 Armd Bde HQ at 1600 hrs from which we learn that the Div front is to be shortened and held by one Bde. 131 Bde on out Right are to be relieved by a Bde of the Gds Armd Div on night 17/18 Dec whilst 22 Armd Bde remain in the line holding the front from R MAAS to inclusive TUDDERN (7071). "B" Tp will therefore revert to our comd and 259 Bty will go out of the line with 131 Bde and concentrate in area SITTARD (6968). The Bty issues a challenge to the village of BORN to meet in a soccer match, the challenge is accepted and arrangements are completed to kick off on Sunday at 1430 hrs.

As stated in Text

15

Reasonably quiet day with some Arty and mortar fire from both sides. We switch some detachments around to enable some to come into the reserve area of "A" Tp, whilst the detachments holding these posns will go fwd. Visits of 24 and 48 hrs leave to BRUSSELS continue. An extremely heavy frost occurred last night.

as above

16

The whole day is very noisy with our guns firing counter-battery tasks. The enemy guns remain silent and do not reply.

as above

17

Slight mortar activity in village of MILLEN between 0915 and 1000 hrs.

Two enemy jet propelled AC fly at roof-top height over TUDDERN at 1015 hrs.
Over SITTARD they run into one of our fighter sqdns as a result of which a dog fight takes place and one of the enemy AC are shot down. The other
plane drops some bombs the outskirts of SITTARD, between that town and IMBRICHT. Some lcas are caused to personnel travelling in a 3-tonner
on the LIMBRICHT - SITTARD road. 

The afternoon is quite but at 1730 hrs enemy AC are heard in our vicinity. The sounds of bombs and AA fire
are heard and believed to be in the area of SITTARD. AA and searchlightsa re in action for the next 30 mins or so. At about 1830 hrs several planes fly over BORN and a few moments later one drops a stick of four bombs the last of which lands about 12 yds away from the Offrs Mess.
Fortunately it was of the smaller of bombs but Capt PD BALFOUR RA was wounded, having five small punctures in his back, buttocks and leg.Dvr SIMPSON was also wounded more seriously in the back and head. Both are taken to the Regtl A.P. and Gnr SIMPSON is evacuated to the MDS.

Capt BALFOUR stays at duty. Aerial activity continues throughout the night in the Div area.

As stated in Text

18

Aerial activity continues throughout the night and did not abate until about 0800 hrs in the morning. The morning is spent in clearing up from "our bomb" We visit the Tos at about 1100 hrs and find that they also had a disturbed night *butterfly bombs" were dropped in "C" TP area. No damage or cas were reported. To-night we are to carry out HF tasks on the road between SUSTEREN (6875) and SCHILBERG (7079). Gun posns are recced just North of BORN. One gun from "A" Tp and one gun from "C" Tp are moved into posn at 1630 hrs under comd Lieut HONEYMAN, "A" Tp. 12 rds HE (LV) per gun per hour are to be fired. The shoot is successful and terminates at 1745 hrs. At 2300 hrs we have a general "stand-to" after a report from 22 Armd Bde that "100 Black objects have been sighted flying towards the Div area". At 2345 hrs we stand down as the danger is considered
to have passed.

as above

19

The remainder of last night was quiet so far as we were concerned, although enemy AC were again active in the Div area. Christmas NAAFI arrived to-day and includes tinned turkey, mince meat, plum pudding, apples, oranges and pears plus and extra spirit issue. The day is quieter than of late
with NTR. BC attends CO's conference at 1600 hrs held at 258 BHQ as a result of which we learn that the defences are to be thickened up against the possible attack by the enemy to start a pincer movement to join up with his winter offensive on the 1st and 9th US army areas. We also learn that 131 Bde is to go back into the line with 259 Bty in sp and that 259 Bty will take over the village of MILLEN and TUDDERN from us. This will mean that each Bty will actually have two Tps in the line and will be able to carry out reliefs for each Tp in turn. We may also have the assistance of 258 and 260 Bttie to thicken up our defences and give depth to them so that we will be thicker on the ground. 259 Bty will probably take over the villages of MILLEN and TUDDERN on night of 20/21 Dec. The evening is noisy with out gunfire - no reply. Capt PD BALFOUR evacuated to 10 CCS.

As stated in text

20

A quiet day. BC and 2 IC visited all Tps. Some shelling in evening by our guns. NTR.

21

A quite night with NTR. A heavy mist is present until 1130 hrs and there is a general stand-to. During the afternoon enemy are observed off "B" and "C" Tp's area but are dispersed by arty and small arms fire.\It is believed that these tps are new to the area and are wandering about in places which were treated with more respect by the previous tps. To add to this belief there was a lot of noise behind the enemy's lines during the night leading us to believe that a change was taking place. Arty activity during the evening is noticeably increased and there is also some air activity but not in our area.

as above

22

Arty activity during the night on an increased scale. We learn that 131 Bde are to come back into the line and that 259 Bty will be under comd and will have Dtt of their three Tps committed, we will not therefore be able to have one Tp out of the line in turn as we had hoped. RHQ move from BORN to area GELEEN to-day and 5 RTR move into LIMBRICHT with recced posns between BUCHTEN and LIMBRICHT which will be occupied if the situation demanded it. This will be a considerable help to us and will thicken up the defences considerably. The day is quiet with spasmodic arty activity from both sides. Capt BALFOUR returns from 10 CCS but needs rest as he has a small piece of bomb in his ankle. CO visits the Bty and explains alterations to be made in dispositions of the Regt. The BC meets GOC at 1045 hrs.

as above

23

Another night of intensive arty fire - predominantly ours but with single enemy guns. Quite strong enemy patrol approached "C" Tp's area during the night, this being preceeded by a strong stonk - from enemy standpoints on and around the village of NIEUSTADT. This patrol was beaten off and all was quite quiet again by 2300 hrs. We receive warning to expect a severe frost of 12°. There is a severe drop in the temperature.

Many of the locals can now be seen skating. A quiet day with very little activity along the whole front. A Rest Centre for the tps is opened in A Ech

as above

24

Another night of Aircraft both enemy and ours. Arty fire, again mostly ours, but some enemy guns carrying out harassing shoots. About 2300 hrs the boche were heard to be singing carols to the accompaniment of an accordian - a stonk was brought down on the area from where the carolling apparently came - no more carolling or accordians were heard.

25

The first visitor of the day is Comd 22 Armd Bde who arrived at about 0915 hrs. He visited the Rest Centre and had a word with all the fellows present. BC visits "A" & "C" Tps during the morning returning here about 1230 hrs.

CO calls at 1245 hrs and visits the Rest Centre. BC and 2 IC help to serve dinner to Tac and "A" Ech. BC visits "B" Tp at 1400 hrs where he finds a very excellent Christmas Dinner about to be consumed. He assists in the serving and partakes of dinner there at the conclusion. Despite the fact that we are in the line and alcoholic restrictions are necessarily severe it is considered a very successful Christmas Day with the chaps in good heart. The whole day is quiet with NTR.

as above

26

At 0545 hrs the enemy attacked GEBROEK which is comparatively lightly held by 11 H plus two guns of 260 Bty. The attack was not made in any great strength but was preceeded by quit a heavy stonk from guns and mortars.The two SPs of "K" Tp under Lt AYLING did very well indeed and shot up at least 12 GERMANS before a short withdrawal was ordered. At 1000 hrs the village was counter-attacked and re taken. The remainder of the front was quite with NTR

as above

27

Another night of arty fire mostly harassing tasks. The day proves uneventful. "B" Tp report having seen three vapour trails in the sky between 0300 hrs and 0900 hrs. Those are believed to have originated from V2 launching sites and are reported to Higher Authy. Otherwise NTR. The CO visited "A" & "C" Tps during the morning. The day is reasonably quiet with less than the usual amount of Ar?????e.

As stated in text

28

A quiet night. Slight mortaring from enemy heavy mortars in MILLEN about 1530 hrs - about 10 mortar bombs landed. Remainder of front quiet with only very slight patrol activity.

as above

29

Slight shelling of TUDDERN and mortaring in MILLEN during the night. One of "B" Tps Quads received a slight hole in the radiator but there is no real damage or casualties reported. The day is quiet with NTR.

as above

30

Quiet night. Slight shelling forward of BUCHTEN (6573) at about 1100 hrs. but remainder of day NTR. We are still very much on our toes in this sector since the enemy may try a large scale offensive owing to the lack of success in the ARDENNES area.

as above

31

More shelling than usual during the night by enemy single guns but ours were very active during the early hours of the morning. The day is generally quiet with nothing of importance to report.