War Diaries of 3rd County of London Yeomanry

1941

 

Home 1939 1940 1942
1943 1944 1945 1946

 

January 1941

Commanding Officer: Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
Dorking, Surrey.

1

 

Regimental strength:-
38 officers, 557 ORs.

 

      Total of A vehicles:-
    6 Cruisers Mk IVa,
    38 Light Tanks Mk VIb,
    1 Light Tank Mk VIc,
    3 Light Tanks Mk VI,
    1 Light Tank Mk IIIb,
    6 Humberettes, 		 
      Total of B vehicles:-
    1 3-ton breakdown (LAD),
    29 3-ton GS, (1 LAD), 2 surplus to establishment, 1 for use of Rear Party (impressed),
    13 30cwt, GS (1 LAD), 2 surplus to establishment, 1 for use of Rear Party, (both impressed),
    15 15cwt GS (3 LAD), 1 15cwt water, 1 15cwt office, 1 15cwt W/T,
    3 Humber utility,
    4 Austin utility,
    3 M/C combinations,
    14 M/C solo (2 LAD) 		 
      Light Tanks Mk VIc received from 9th Lancers. 3 Light Tanks Mk VIb transferred to 9th Lancers.  
      Capt. S Reddish relinquishes appointment of Regimental Weapons Training officer. 2Lt J Hiddleston assumes this appointment wef 1/1/41.  
 

2

 

Squadron training. 2 Light Tanks Mk VIc received from 10th Hussars. 6 Light Tanks Mk VIb transferred to 10 Hussars.

 

 

3

 

Squadron training.

 

 

4

 

Squadron training.

 

 

6

 

Squadron training.

 

 

7

 

Squadron training. 1 Light Tank Mk VIb transferred to 9th Lancers. 2 3-ton GS (impressed) transferred to OO Guildford. 1 30cwt GS transferred to OO Guildford.

 

 

8

 

Squadron training.

 

 

9

 

Squadron training.

 

 

10

 

Squadron training.

 

 

11

 

Squadron training. 2Lt RC Davies posted to unit wef 11/1/41. (WO letter 112/RAC/454. AG 17b 7/1/41). 2Lt JTM Childs posted to unit wef 11/1/41. (WO letter 112/RAC/454. AG 17b 10/1/41).

 

 

12

 

One squadron of tanks co-operated with 5th Bn Home Guard (Surrey) in an exercise the purpose of which was to familiarise HG personnel with the advance of tanks against road block etc.1 Light Tank Mk VIb transferred to 9th Lancers. 2 Light Tanks Mk VIb transferred to 10th Hussars.1 Humber utility received from OO Chilwell.

 

 

13

 

Squadron training.

 

 

14

 

Squadron training.

 

 

15

 

Squadron training.

 

 

16

 

Squadron training.

 

 

17

 

Squadron training. I Light Tank Mk VIb transferred to 9th Lancers. 1 Light Tank Mk VIb transferred to 4th Hussars.

 

 

18

 

Squadron training.

 

 

19

 

140685 2Lt JS Hansen-Bay posted to 101 OCTU (RAC Wing). WOUPT P/140685 31/12/40.

 

 

20

 

Squadron training.

 

 

21

 

Squadron training.

 

 

22

 

Squadron training.

 

 

23

 

Squadron training.

 

 

24

 

Squadron training. 85452 2Lt HM Matthews appointed Acting Captain wef 1/1/41. (1st Armd Div Order No 6, 21/1/41. Appendix A)

 

 

25

 

Squadron training.

 

 

27

 

Squadron training.

 

 

28

 

Squadron training. 4 Humberettes transferred to Dutch contingent in United Kingdom.
85466 2Lt RM Keane posted to GHQ Recce Unit wef 27/1/41. (WO 112/Gen/4786/78. AG 17b)

 

 

29

 

Squadron training.

 

 

30

 

Squadron training.

 

 

31

 

Squadron training. Regimental strength 38 officers, 547 ORs.

 

         

 

 

February 1941

Commanding Officer:  Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
Dorking, Surrey. 1  Regimental strength:-
38 officers, 547 ORs.		 
     Total of A vehicles:-
    6 Cruisers Mk IVa,
    23 Light Tanks Mk VIb,
    6 Light Tank Mk VIc,
    3 Light Tanks Mk VI,
    1 Light Tank Mk IIIb,
    2 Humberettes,
    10 Scout cars 		 
     Total of B vehicles:-
    1 3-ton breakdown (LAD),
    1 3-ton GS (6 wheeled LAD),
    26 3-ton GS, (1 LAD),
    12 30cwt, GS (1 LAD), 1 surplus to establishment,
    15 15cwt GS (3 LAD),
    1 15cwt water,
    1 15cwt office,
    1 15cwt W/T,
    5 Humber utility,
    4 Austin utility,
    3 M/C combinations,
    14 M/C solo (2 LAD)		 
      Humber utility sent to Ministry of Supply, Farnham. (Damaged in accident, new car received in lieu during January) 
  2  Codeword FILIBUSTER 0800 hours received. Regiment moved off at 0900 hours and proceeded to Baynards Park Q5156 via Cranleigh Q4958 where it went into harbour. At 1500 hours the Regiment returned to billeting area. 
  3  Squadron training. 2 Light Tanks Mk VIb transferred to 9th Lancers. 
  4  Squadron training. 
  5  Divisional Exercise. Regiment was warned to be at starting point at 0900 hours from where they moved to Concentration Area map ref Q509562. Map ref of starting point Q464575. At 1015 hours the Regiment advanced on centre line Rudgwick Q5253 - Bucks Green Q5252 - Five Oaks Q5347 - Billingshurst Q5245 - Pulborough Q4837 - Watersfield Q4535 - Bury Q4432 - Whiteways Lodge Q4230 - Slindon Q3927. 
      At 1400 hours the Regiment was in the area Bury Hill Q4431 when it was ordered to turn eastwards in order to locate and destroy enemy on South Downs between rivers Arun and Adur. 
     22nd Armd Brigade advanced with 3rd Sharpshooters on left, on line - Amberley Station Q4622 - Downs Farm Q4751 - Amberley Mount - Rackham Hill Q4821 - Kishurst Hill Q5131 - Chantry Hill Q5231 Highden Hill Q5431. Area Highden Hill reached at 1730 hours. Regiment then rallied at Pulborough Q4837 and went into harbour in areas Kirdford Q4545, Idehurst Q4644, Battlehurst Farm Q4542, Marshals Farm Q4543 at 2100 hours. At 0900 hours 6/2/41, the Regiment returned to billets. 
  7  Squadron training. 
  8  Squadron training. 
  10  Squadron training. 2 Light Tanks Mk VIc received from 10th Hussars. 
  11  Squadron training. 
  12  Squadron training. 
  13  Squadron training. 
  14  Squadron training. Capt. DR Holden attached to unit for all purposes wef 12/2/41 for duty (temp) as MO. 
  15  Squadron training. 
  17  Squadron training. 3 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  18  Squadron training. 
  19  Squadron training. 
  20  A proportion of transport and administrative personnel left by road for AFV range, Castle Martin, nr Pembroke, South Wales. 
  21  3 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 58936 Capt. JR Robertson RAMC ceased to be attached to unit on appointment as DADMS 1st Armd Div wef 19/2/41. 
  22  Tank crew personnel entrained at Witley station for Castle Martin, AFV range. 
  24  24 -28 Feb Tank crew personnel at AFV range (as above) 
  27  2 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  28  Regimental strength:- 38 officers, 593 ORs. 
           

 

 

March 1941

Commanding Officer:  Lt Col R K Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
Dorking, Surrey. 1  Regimental strength:-
38 officers, 594 ORs.		 
     Total of B vehicles:-
    1 3-ton breakdown (LAD),
    1 3-ton GS (6 wheeled LAD),
    26 3-ton GS, (1 LAD),
    12 30cwt, 1 surplus to establishment,
    15 15cwt GS (3 LAD),
    1 15cwt water,
    1 15cwt office,
    1 15cwt W/T,
    4 Humber utility, 1 surplus to establishment.
    4 Austin utility,
    3 M/C combinations,
    14 M/C solo (2 LAD) 		 
      Cruiser tank MK VI received from Chilwell. 4 6-wheeled GS received from Albion Motors. 
  3  Tank crews returned from AFV range Castle Martin. 1 Cruiser tank MK VI received from Chilwell. 
  4  Squadron training. 
  5  Squadron training. Major OH Dickens struck off strength of unit (absent from unit 21 days) 
  6  Squadron training. 
  7  Squadron training. 15 15cwt GS & 1 30cwt GS received from Ford works. 
  8  Squadron training. 2 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  9  3 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  10  Squadron training. 1 Humber utility transferred to Min of Supply. 
  11  Squadron training. 2 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  12  Squadron training. 4 3-ton GS transferred to 61st Light AA Regiment. 
  13  Squadron training. 
  14  Squadron training. 
  15  Squadron training. 130221 A/P/Capt. C Moncreiff RTR, to be temporary Capt. 24/2/41. 
  17  Squadron training. 
  18  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 5 Light Tanks Mk VIc received from 4th CLY. 8 Light Tanks Mk VIb transferred to 10th Hussars. 
  19  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk V received from Chilwell. 1 Humberette transferred to Royal Dutch Army. 1 30cwt GS transferred to 13th Field Regiment RA, 1 30cwt GS to 102nd OCTU RAC. 
  20  Squadron training. 
  21  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 1 Light Tank Mk VIc received from 9th Lancers. 11 15cwt GS transferred to 1/4 South Lancs Regiment. During the absence of Lt Col RK Jago the Regiment will be under command of Major AP Grafftey-Smith. 
  22  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI & 5 Cruiser tanks Mk V received from Chilwell. 3 Light Tanks Mk VIc received from 10th Hussars. 
  24  Squadron training. To be W/S Lieutenant under provision of ACI 229, 1941:- wef 1/1/41 85477 2Lt RC Bett, 90770 2Lt DH French, 87651 2Lt JC Holcroft, 85452 A/Capt. HM Matthews, 85463 2Lt AD Wigan, wef 5/1/41 2Lt the Hon GC Carew.3 15cwt GS transferred to Chilwell. 
  25  Squadron training. 
  26  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 1 Light Tank Mk IIIb transferred to 28th Armd Brigade. 
  27  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 3 Light Tanks Mk VI transferred to Chilwell. 
  28  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 2Lt J Aitken joined unit. 
  29   Squadron training.  
  31  Squadron training.  
      Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD, resumes command of the Regiment wef 30/3/41.Regimental Strength 39 officers, 591 ORs. 
          

 

 

April 1941

Commanding Officer:  Lt Col R K Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
Dorking 1  Regimental Strength 39 officers, 590 ORs.  
     Total of A vehicles:-
    Cruiser tanks Mk IVa 6,
    Cruiser tanks Mk V 6,
    Cruiser tanks Mk VI 23,
    Light tanks Mk VIb 11,
    Light tanks Mk VIc 18,
    Scout cars 10,
    Humberette 1		 
     Total of B vehicles:-
    22 3-ton GS,
    4 6-wheeled GS,
    1 6-wheeled breakdown,
    1 6-wheeled stores,
    16 15cwt GS (3 surplus to establishment),
    1 15cwt water,
    1 15cwt office,
    1 15cwt W/T,
    3 Humber utility,
    4 Austin utility,
    14 M/C solo,
    3 M/C combinations 		 
  2  Squadron training. 
  3  Squadron training. 2 Light Tanks Mk VIb transferred to 43rd RTR. 1 Light Tank Mk VIb transferred to 42nd RTR. 
  4  Squadron training. 
  5  Squadron training. 
  7  Squadron training. 
  8  Squadron training. 179596 2Lt JL Aitken posted to unit 14/3/41. (WO letter 112/RAC/454 12/3/41) 
  9  Squadron training. 75803 T/Capt. AW Grant to be A/Major wef 5/3/41. (1 AD order No 27 4/4/41) 
  10  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk IVa transferred to Field Stores Aldershot. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI transferred to HQ 22nd Armd Brigade. 
  11  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk IVa transferred to Chilwell. 
  12  Squadron training. 85453 W/S Lt AD Wigan to be A/Capt. Wef 5/3/41. (1 AD order No 27 4/4/41) 
  14  Squadron training. 85452 A/Capt. HM Matthews to be T/Capt. Wef 1/4/41. (WO order No 14 3/4/41) 
  15  Squadron training. 
  16  Squadron training. 
  17  Squadron training. 
  18  Squadron training. 
  19  Squadron training. 
  21  Squadron training. 
  22  Squadron training. 
  23  Squadron training. 1 Humberette transferred to 27th Lancers. 21 Cruiser tanks Mk VI trans-shipped. 2Lt EH New RTR posted to unit from 49th Bn RTR wef 22/4/41. (WO order 1504 16/4/41) 
  24  Squadron training. 
  25  Squadron training. 85453 A/Capt. AD Wigan struck of strength on posting to 23rd Hussars wef 22/4/41 (WO UPT B38/1031/153 18/4/41) 
  26  Squadron training. 
  28  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk IVa transferred to Field Stores Aldershot. 
  29  Squadron training. 51411 Lt HF Dodds joined unit for duty from TARO 28/4/41 (WO letter AG12a 21/4/41) 
  30  The Regiment took part in Exercise Armadillo (see Appendix 1). Each squadron was represented by a 15cwt GS truck fitted with wireless together with the CO & 2i/c as RHQ in separate vehicles. 
     These vehicles left the billeting area at 1000 hours, arriving in harbour at Baynards Park ref 1" OS sheet 124 Q5156 at 1100 hours. They were closely followed by A echelon. They remained there until 1910 hours when they proceeded to Crowhurst 125 R0953, arriving in harbour at 0315 1/5/41.   
      Leaving A echelon in this harbour, they moved off at 0710 hours to contact the enemy. They were in action all day until 1800 hours when the end of the exercise was announced. They returned to harbour at Crowhurst, then, accompanied by A echelon returned to billeting area arriving at 2330 hours. 
     Regimental strength 39 officers, 605 ORs. 
        

 

 

May 1941

Commanding Officer:  Lt Col R K Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
Dorking 1  Regimental Strength 38 officers, 605 ORs. 
     Total of A vehicles:-
    Cruiser tanks Mk IVa 3,
    Cruiser tanks Mk V 6,
    Cruiser tanks Mk VI 1,
    Light tanks Mk VIb 8,
    Light tanks Mk VIc 18,
    Scout cars 10,		 
     Total of B vehicles:-
    22 3-ton GS,
    4 6-wheeled GS,
    1 6-wheeled breakdown,
    1 6-wheeled stores,
    11 30cwt GS,
    16 15cwt GS (3 surplus to establishment),
    1 15cwt water,
    1 15cwt office,
    1 15cwt W/T,
    3 Humber utility,
    4 Austin utility,
    14 M/C solo,
    3 M/C combinations 		 
  2  Squadron training. 184235 2Lt P Pearson taken on strength on appointment to commissioned rank wef 19/4/41 (Auth WO letter 112/RAC/454(AG 17b) 16/4/41). 
  3  Squadron training. 
  4  1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  5  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  6  Squadron training. 
  7  Squadron training. 
  8  Squadron training. 7 Carriers, tracked, personnel, received from Chilwell. 
  9  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  10  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  11  1 Light Tank Mk VIc transferred, destination unknown. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  12  Squadron training. 5 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  13  Squadron training. 
  14  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  15  Squadron training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  16  Squadron training.   
      130889 2Lt RH Murphy struck off strength on posting to HQ 22nd Armd Brigade (Auth WO UPT P/130889/226(AG 17b) 10/5/41). 97585 2Lt RH Nield struck off strength on posting to HQ 22nd Armd Brigade wef 23/4/41 for duty as Liaison Officer (Auth WO UPT P/97585/227 (AG 17b) 10/5/41) 
  17  Squadron training. 
  19  Squadron training. 
  20  Squadron training. 
  21  Squadron training. Advance party left for new billeting area. 
  22  Squadron training. 
  23  Squadron training. 
  24  Squadron training. 
  25  Regiment preparing for move to new area. 
  26  Regiment preparing for move to new area. 
  27  Road party left billeting area at 0800 hours to proceed to new area. Route: Chiddingfold - Elstead - Farnham - Odiham - Basingstoke By Pass - Andover - Market Lavington - Westbury. The party arrived at Westbury at 1700 hours and moved into new billets forthwith. 
  28  Personnel party under command of Major GGL Willis left Witley station 0100 hours and arrived at Westbury at 0630 hours. No. 1 Tank Party left Milford station at 2359 hours arriving Westbury 0700 hours. They were under command of Major RW Godson. No. 2 Tank Party were under command of Capt. C Moncreiff and left Witley station at 2210 hours arriving at Westbury at 0430 hours. 
Westbury 29  Regiment preparing new billets. 
  30  Regiment preparing new billets. 1 Light Tank Mk VIc received from Ministry of Supply, Brentford, to replace one transferred 11 May. 
  31  Regimental strength 38 officers, 589 ORs. 
         

 

 

June 1941

Commanding Officer:  Lt Col R K Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
Westbury 1  Regimental Strength 40 officers, 589 ORs. 
     Total of A Vehicles:-
    13 Cruiser tanks Mk VI,
    6 Cruiser tanks Mk V,
    3 Cruiser tanks Mk VIa,
    8 Light Tanks Mk VIb,
    18 Light Tanks Mk VIc,
    10 scout cars,
    7 personnel carriers		 
     Total of B vehicles:-
    No change from May total.		 
     I Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  2  Squadron Training. 
  3  Squadron Training. 
  4  Squadron Training. 189785 2Lt P Hargreaves posted to unit wef 23/5/41 (WO letter 21/5/41). 158901 2Lt HC Crowther struck of strength on posting to Gunnery Wing, AFV School, Lulworth (WO UPT 31/5/41). 
  5  Squadron Training. 3 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  6  2 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  7  Squadron Training. 
  8  Squadron Training. 
  9  Squadron Training. Capt. GK Barber is appointed Regimental Gas Officer, Lt JC Holcroft relinquishes that appointment, wef 11/6/41. 
  10  Squadron Training. 
  11  Squadron Training. 
  12  Squadron Training. 
  13  Squadron Training. 98120 2Lt WJP Goodbody to be W/S Lt wef 2/3/41 (WO order Pt II(b) No. 23 5/6/41) 
  15  Squadron Training. 
  16  Squadron Training. 
  17  Squadron Training. 190615 2Lt RD Hinton, 190625 2Lt FGH Smith posted to unit wef 7/6/41 (WO letter 112/RAC/454 5/6/41) 
  18  Squadron Training. 
  19  Squadron Training. 
  20  Squadron Training. 
  22  Squadron Training. 
  23  Squadron Training. 
  24  Squadron Training. 1 Light Tank Mk VIb transferred to Min of Supply 
  25  Squadron Training. 
  26  Squadron Training. 
  27  Squadron Training. 1 Cruiser tank Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  28  2 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  29  Squadron Training. 2 Cruiser tanks Mk VI received from Chilwell. 
  30  Squadron Training. Regimental strength 40 officers, 596 ORs. 
         

 

 

 

July 1941

Missing 

 

 

August 1941

Commanding Officer:  Lt Col R K Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
Westbury 1  Personnel recalled from 7 days Privilege leave after 48 hours reported throughout day. Intensive preparation for move abroad commenced. 
  2  First 4-day Embarkation leave party departed. 
  3  Preparation for move. 
  4  Preparation for move. 2nd embarkation leave party. 
  5  Preparation for move. 3rd embarkation leave party. 
  6  Preparation for move. Personnel recalled from Privilege leave depart for 48 hour Embarkation leave. 
  7  Draft of 60 men from Training Regiments arrive to complete strength. 
  8 - 13  Preparation for move. 
  13  All vehicles not being taken abroad by the Regiment removed by RASC. 
  14  Regiment paraded under Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD, (Commanding Officer) for final inspection before embarkation. Regiment marched to Westbury station accompanied by the Band of 4th QOH. Entrained for port of embarkation at 0930 hours. Arrived Avonmouth and embarked on HMT Orion at 1230 hours.  
     Strength on Embarkation - 40 officers, 603 ORs.
Casualties - 1 OR put ashore before sailing as insane.		 
Avonmouth 15  1000 hours, Regiment sails. Anchors of Barry and sails again at evening. During night joins rest of convoy. 
At Sea 16 - 27  Training under Squadron arrangements planned and commenced. Handicapped by limitation of space on board ship. 
  28  Arrived at Freetown, Sierra Leone. 
         

 

 

September 1941

Commanding Officer: Lt Col R K Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
At Sea. 1  Left Freetown 
  2 -10  Training under Squadron arrangements. 
  11  Arrived Capetown. 
Capetown 12  Route march. Shore leave 1300 - 2359 hours. 
  13  Route march. Shore leave 1300 - 2359 hours. 
     Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD, leaves unit and travels by air with Brigadier J Scott-Cookburn and COs of other units in the Brigade to final destination. Command of Regiment assumed by Major RW McC.Godson. 
  14  Sailed from Capetown at 1230 hours. One OR left behind in hospital. 
At Sea. 15 - 25  Training under Squadron arrangements. 
  26  1600 hours arrived Aden. 
  28  0600 hours left Aden 
At Sea. 29 - 30  Preparations for disembarkation. 
     Changes of command during the month - Major RW McC.Godson assumes command of Regiment during absence of Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD, 13 September 41, and the assumption of acting command of 22nd Armd Brigade by Major AP Grafftey-Smith (Regtl 2i/c). 
         

 

 

 

 

October 1941

Commanding Officer: Lt Col R K Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices

Amariyah

 6

 

At 2300 hrs Casualties – X List posting – 2 O.R;s.

 

       “

 7

 

Tent erecting completed. Trench digging continues. 7 tabks Mk. VI and 2 Scout Cars arrive.

 

       “

 8

 

Baggage from Suez arrives. Casualties – X List postings2 4 O.R’s.

 

       “

 9

 

Digging of slit trenches finished. 30 lorries from Bde and 1 Scout Car.

 

       “

10

 

Tanks and Scout Cars sent to R.A.O.C. Alexandris for modification. Instructions received from Bde. re signs and painting of all vehicles. Remainder of Baggage arrives. 4 3-ton lorries arrive. Lt.Col. R.K. Jago, M.M., T.D, (C.O.)m

 Maj, Godson, Maj. Willis and 2/Lt. Caunce (I.O.) go to Forward Areas on recce.

 

 

 

 

Casualties – X List posting – 2 O.R;s.

 

       “

11

 

Daily Leave to Alexandria granted. (A.B &C Sqns, -24 O.R’s each: H.Q. Sen.-30 O.R’s) Epidemic of “Gyppo Tummy” reaches peak – total of 15 O.R’s posted to X list.

 

       “

12

 

L.A.D. and Tech, Stores arrive. 6 Scout Cars arrive.

 

 

 

 

Strength – 40 Offs. 586 O.Rs (A.F. W 3008/9 att.)

Nos. 1&2

 

 

 

                 Vehicles-as at 0600 hrs. ‘A’ – 1- Scout Cars.

 

 

 

 

                 ‘B’ - 45 3tpn lorries: 3 30cwt.lorries: 3 8cwt, trucks:

 

 

 

 

                  3 water trucks: 8 Utilities: 8 m/cs: 1 combination

 

       “

13

 

Painting of all vehicles to sand colour commenced. Instructions from Bde. that Regt. is to be fully equipped and ready to move on 25 Oct 41.

 

       “

14

 

Second party consisting of Maj. Grafftey-Smith (2nd, i/c), Maj. Dickins, Maj. Rich and Capt, Wrey (Adjutant) to Forward Areas.

 

       “

 

 

Hon. Lt. G.G. Carew posted to Corps H.Q., Cairo. Mild Sand storm blowing.

 

       “

15

 

Sand storms continues.

 

       “

16

 

C. in C., M.E.F., Gen. Auchinleck and Staff visit camp at 1530 hrs.

 

       “

 

 

Remaining Scout Cars to R.A.O.C., Alex. for modification,

 

       “

17

 

The Commanding Officer (Lt. Col. R.K. Jago M.M., T.D.) read to the Regt. a Memorandum “Battle Notes for All Ranks” prepared by the Brigadier – Brig. J. Scott-Cockburn M.M. (See Appendix 3).

No. 3

 

 

 

The preparation of the scrim camouflage nets at full swing.

 

       “

18

 

Second party returned from Forward Area. Two Scout Cars arrived from R.A.O.C., Alexandria. Two Utuilitiesto R.A.O.C. for painting,

 

       “

19

1100

The Commanding Officer held a Conference of Sqn. Leaders, as a result of which 2/Lt. F.G.R. Smith appointed Liaison Officer and 2/Lt. P. Pearson reserve Liaison Officers and Officer i/c Scout Cars.

 

 

 

 

Strength:- 39 Officers. 589 O.R’s (see W.3008/9)

Nos. 4 & 5

 

 

 

                2 Vehicles:- ‘A’ vehicles. 10 Scout Cars (7 at R.A.O.C, Alex._

 

 

 

 

                ‘B’ Vehicles – 66 – 3 tonners

 

 

 

 

                                       15 – 15 cwts trucks

 

 

 

 

                                         8 - Utilities

 

 

 

 

                                         4 – 15 cwt Water truckes

 

 

 

 

                                         2 – 8 cwt. Trucks

 

 

 

 

                                         1 – 15 cwt Office truck

 

 

 

 

                                         1 – W/T. van

 

 

 

                                         2 – 3 tonner Fitters lorries

 

 

 

 

                                       13 – solo m/cys.

 

 

 

 

                                         2 – m/cy combinations.

 

       “

20

 

One Scout Car and one Utility returned from R.A.O.C. Alex.

 

       “

 

 

Regtl. Wireless Officer gives Lecture to H.Q. Tank Cmdrs. and Dvr.Operators on new RT procedure. This new procedure will only be used by Regtl. Rear Link to Bde. It will not be generally used in the Regt. for some months.

 

       “

21

 

8 Cruiser tanks Mk. VI’s arrived from R.A.O.C., Cairo. One Scout car from R.A.O.C., Alexandria. Modifications and painting of ‘B’ vehicles speeded up.

 

       “

22

 

3 3-ton Fords delivered. 1 3-ton lorry transferred to Bde. Sigs. 2 15-cwts. Received in exchange. 11 Motor Cycles sent away as surplus to establishment. 34 Cruiser tanks Mk. VI & VI a arrived from Ordnance Alexandria and Cairo.

 

       “

 

1900

C.R.T. – Maj. C.A. Rich – held conference of Sqn. Transport Officers. Transport Sgts. and S.Q.M.S’s to give final directions on formation of ‘B’ Echelon, and allocation of “Tommy guns, Bren guns and Sqn Compasses as between vehicles.

 

       “

23

 

10 Cruiser Tanks Mk.VI and V1a arrived to complete establishment.

 

 

 

 

(for the first time since it was decided that the Regt. should be equipped with Cruiser Tanks the Regt. possesses it full compliment.) 4 Scout Cars were delivered from R.A.O.C., Alexandria.

 

       “

 

1100

Lt.Col. R.K. Jago M.M., T.D (Commanding Officer) held a Squadron Leaders Conference,

 

 

 

 

Inthe evening the striking of tents preparatory to mover commenced.

 

 

 

 

Majority of personnel returned from R.A.O.C Workshops, Alexandria.

 

       “

24

 

Preparation for departure for bivouac area. Feverish activity to prepare tanks for journey in time.

 

       “

25

0930

Regt. leaves camp. Tanks cross S.P. 1145 hrs. – arrived at bivouac area 1400 hrs. (Map ref. of area El Ghayata Sheet 88/48 9998-0198-0196-9996) Leaguer formed facing West.

 

 

 

 

‘B’ Echelon – divided into A1, A2 and B Echelons – commanded by Maj. C.A. Rich (C.R.T.)

 

 

 

 

R.H.Q. tanks fitted with No.14 R/T sets as well as No. 9’s.- as yet not highly successful.

 

In the desert

26

 

‘A’ Sqn. fired practices on ranges. ‘C’ Sqn. moved up to ranges in evening to be ready for shoot on Monday 27 Oct.

 

(see 25 Oct)

 

 

Strength:- 39 Officers. 584 O.R’s (see Appendix 6 & 7)

No.s 6 & 7

       “

 

 

                Vehicles – ‘A’ vehicles 52 Cruiser tanks Mk.VI&VIa

 

 

 

 

                10 Scouts cars

 

 

 

 

                ‘B’ vehicles as at 19 Oct.

 

 

27

 

‘C’ & ‘B’ Sqns. fired practices. At Brigadiers Conference Regt. given to night of 31 Oct/1 Nov to complete general maintenance following firing, after which time Regt. on 4 hrs. notice.

 

 

28

 

R.H.Q. tank troop fired practices. The practices fired by the Sqns consisted of 24 rds. of 2 pdr., Besa and 3 smoke bombs per tank.

 

 

29

1000

Static Wireless Scheme.

 

 

 

1600

Exercise to practice close leaguering at night. The Regt. left bivouac area t 1600 hrs and leaguered in close triangle formation facing West at 0913 hrs.

 

 

30

 

Broke leaguer at 0430 hrs and re-formed close leaguer at 0510 hrs. Second close leaguer broken before first light and Regt. re-leaguered in open formation at 0600 hrs in area map ref, Egypt 88/48 9393.

 

 

 

0900

Broke open leaguer and Regt. practiced tactical formations on journey back to bivouac area.

 

 

 

1045

Arr. Bivouac area.

 

 

31

 

Preparation for Bde. Exercise and move forward. South West wind throughout day bringing with it dust storms. Clocks advanced 1 hr. at 2300 hrs to conform with local winter time.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Notes. 1. No change in command during month.

 

 

 

 

           2. Since entering bivouac area on 25 Oct. water has been rations to 1 gall. per man per day, 6 pints of which are given to the Cookhouse.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

     
No.3

22ND ARMOURED BRIGADE

 
     
 

BATTLE NOTES FOR ALL RANKS

 
     

1.       FOREWARD.

After two years of training we are about to put into practise all that we have learned. The measure of our success depends chiefly on our guts.

The following are not Training Notes but Battle Notes.

 

2.       TRANSPORT.

Without in the supplies you carry for the tanks, the tank crews our powerless. Yours is the most vital job. Let your watch word be “We will deliver the goods.

Drive carefully rather than quickly and maintain your vehicles perfectly. Watch for water boiling.

Remember you will be attacked by enemy aircraft. Therefore do not present a worthwhile target, but keep 200 yds from any other vehicles. Always watched the air and your leaders for signals.

When you halt keep dispersed and choose your nets. If any enemy planes attack you, shoot them down. The antidotes to air attack are:-

 

(i)                  Air centuries on the move and at the halt. Avoid being taken by surprise.

(ii)                Dispersion. Do not present a worthwhile target.

(iii)               Concealment. Destroy shadow used by Nets.

(iv)               Fire. Fill the air with lead and the enemy will avoid you.

 

3.       TRADESMEN.

One your knowledge and skills depends the effective strength, both fighting and supply, off the Brigade. Be ready to give your best however tired, hungry or thirsty you may be, or whatever the danger.

 

4.       SIGNALLERS.

If our wireless communications fail, our speed of movement will drop to walking pace, our ability and power of rapid manoeuvre would then be last and our vital supplies late in reaching us. In your care are the sinews that bind us all together. On your skilful maintenance, and on your devotion to duty depends our essential speed of movement. As you have endeavoured in the past, so also in battle, keep each your Set working and all conditions.

 

5.       TANK DRIVERS.

Your tank must be at all times ready to move. Never neglect an opportunity for maintenance and do not take a chances with some small mechanical defect, for it may develop into a serious one- “a stitch in time, saves nine”. Watch your petrol gauge and keep your tank commander informed. When it comes to fighting, keep your head and listen for orders. On you depends your Gunner’s aim and your Tank Commander’s manoeuvre.

 

6.       GUNNERS.

Keep your weapons and ammunition in perfect order and readiness. The plans of higher Commanders, the system of supply and of communications are all to one end - for you to hit the target. You are the final culminating link in a long chain. Listen for orders, keep your head, don't waste ammunition by hurried aim and Shoot to Kill..

 

7.       TANK COMMANDERS.

You are the man who will win the battle. As Kipling wrote “IF can keep your head when all around you are losing theirs” etc. On you depends not only the mechanical efficiency of your Tank, its weapons and its wireless but also the Team spirit of your Crew.  Fight your tank as part of the Troop Team and if, in the heat of battle, communications fail or for the orders can not be given, fight on to carry our the intention off your Troop or Squadron leader.

 

8.       SCOUT CAR PERSONNEL.

Daimler Scout Cars are not designed for desert work. Remember this - drive carefully and maintain meticulously. If wireless is silence is imposed or wireless fails we rely on you to maintain communications. In addition you may be used for patrol work. Certainly you will get many opportunities to fire at every air-craft. But however or wherever you are used, your value will be great, depends entirely on the reliability of your machines and your ability to find your way.

 

9.       GENERAL.

There are many others I have not singled out in the foregoing paragraphs. Warrant and Non-commissioned Officers, Heads of Departments, Clerks, Store-men, Cooks, Water and Hygiene men etc, your tasks are none the less important, for each of us has an essential part to play for the good of the home. This is war of all fronts ; anyway may be called upon to fight wherever he may be. But those who are not so continuously bear the brunt of the fighting should apply themselves even more diligently to their task.

 

10.   GENERAL TACTICS.

Our principles must be to Hold and Hit. This applies to Troop, Squadron, Regimental and Brigade Tactics. It will be necessary for those who first find the enemy to pin him with fire and the remainder to hit him in the flank -to out-flank or envelop.

We have fast thanks. We must make use of this speed, and range and not use them for frontal attacks. The Germans, if they withdraw, do so through that A/Tk guns. A frontal attack is one of the one they prefer. Therefore hit them in their flank,. When you do out-flank them, GO WIDE.

If you can, present an end-on target to the enemy another side view. If he out-ranges you, us smoke while you close the range. Do not fire at over 1000 yds and do fire generally at 800 yds. Learn these distances.

If you can get a Hull down position use it with alternatives. Be prepared to fire on the move. If you have the nerve, halt to shoot, being “Quick on the Draw”, i.e. a quick fire order and quick recognition. You are just as easy for the enemy to hit if you are going at 10 m.p.h as when stationary. Linney Head proved that. If you are end on to him you are the same target moving aa stationary so why not halt to shoot.

It is accurate gunnery that is going to win this battle.

 

                                                                  J. Scott-Cockburn

                                                                                                     Brigadier,

                                                                              Commander, 22nd Armoured Brigade

 

15 Oct 41.

JSC/RB

   
     

 

 

November 1941

Commanding Officer: Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
  1 - 16  Missing 
  17 - 18  22nd Armd Brigade was disposed in leaguer about 2 miles South of Guaret Azzar 551301 with the 3 Armd Regiments in front. 3rd Sharpshooters right at Garet El Gawani, 2nd RGH centre, 4th Sharpshooters left. The mixed column was behind 4th Sharpshooters and the Echelon brigaded in rear.
Ariete Division was reported to be at BIR EL GUBI with 138 M13 tanks.		 
     7th Armd Division was to advance one up, 4th Armd Brigade right, 7th Armd Brigade centre, 22nd Armd Brigade left, 7th Support Group on Div centre line behind Battle HQ. 
     3rd CLY O.O. No.1 was issued, in which the Regiment was ordered to secure a battle position in area 175 435354. They were to advance one up, A Squadron leading on Regimental centre line. Centre line was one mile north of Brigade centre line, on which marched 2nd RGH leading. Brigade centre line was 207 527295 - 82 508293 - 178 486303 - 179 452331. W/T silence was ordered until first contact. 
     All tanks were painted with three vertical bands, centre band red, other bands white. In order to deceive the enemy they were fitted with a camouflage structure which made them look like MT vehicles. These were known as sunshields. 
     The tank strength was 48 A15 Cruisers. 
     The Regiment moved off at 0610 hours with 46 tanks, and crossed the frontier wire about 0830 hours, having covered a distance of about 30 miles. It had been ordered to refuel in the area 478305 between 0900 and 1030 hours, and for this purpose was to be met by guides under 2Lt PW Pearson at a point on the centre line due north of 180 493298. Dumping was not completed until 0930 and 2Lt Pearson was then ordered to guide the RASC lorries back to the frontier wire. Afterwards he then proceeded to the meeting point, which he reached at 1000 hours, by which time the Regiment had passed. The Regiment, having seen no guide, and having halted at 1000 hours at 481308 was able to find the dumps, and refuelled by 1130. Battle positions were reached without event by 1615.  
      During this time no wireless messages were received from Brigade and it was assumed that this was due to a deliberate policy. The other regiments were not in sight. Capt. S Buxton who was following the Regiment in charge of A Echelon saw 2nd RGH in rear. On arrival patrol were sent out which reported 11 tanks, probably German Mk IIIs, retiring rapidly to the NW in the failing light. Shortly before dusk a LO from Brigade arrived who stated that efforts had been made all day to get in touch with the wireless but without success. The Regiment was ordered to return about 7 miles and leaguer at 173 437343. The location of Brigade HQ was given as 435344. Efforts were made throughout the night to find it, without success. The Regiment was not refuelled that night owing to mechanical breakdowns. 
  19/11/41  At 0830 Lt SW Peel arrived with orders from Brigade to move forward to the original battle position and at 0908 the Regiment was ordered to go on to BIR DUEDAR 432362 where it took up battle positions and remained until 1340. The Regiment was then ordered to get in touch with, and move up on the right of 2nd RGH, who were reported heavily engaged round 181 423369. It advanced with A Squadron leading, C right, and B left, but finding no sign of 2nd RGH at Pt. 181 continued towards BIR EL GUBI.  
      At 1500 the leading Troop of A Squadron (2Lt AR Lindsay) reported five M13 tanks in the area 421372 and Lt Col RK Jago ordered Major GGL Willis commanding A Squadron to attack. The strength of A Squadron at this time ?:?? tanks. Two tanks under 2Lts AW Henderson and P Hargreaves were sent up on the left to draw the enemy's fire and Mr Lindsay was ordered by Major Willis to attack from the right. Supporting fire was given by Major Willis from his Squadron HQ at about 1000 yards. The was completely successful, all five tanks being knocked out by Mr Lindsay's troop - and then set on fire. 25 prisoners were taken from the tanks and sent back under scout car escort together with 22 infantry and artillery prisoners.   
      During this action C Squadron had been ordered to move up on the right of A Squadron, and B Squadron, consisting of five tanks under Major Godson, Capt. Vaughan, Lt JC Holcroft, Sgt Gregory and Sgt Medlar, to remain in a hull-down position 1500 yards behind A Squadron, to observe the left flank of the Regiment and to watch for 2nd RGH. From 1500 wireless touch was lost with B Squadron. This Squadron advanced from hull-down position to reconnoitre and was engaged by heavy anti-tank gunfire from the fort at BIR EL GUBI. Almost at once Major Godson's tank was hit and the track blown off. The tank continued to fire for a while and was then hit on the turret and silenced, Major Godson and his operator both being wounded.  
      Immediately after this Mr Holcroft's tank, which had gone further forward was hit on the turret at close range and all the occupants (Mr Holcroft, Tpr Mammen and Cpl Dixon) killed, except the driver, who brought the tank out of action. Sgt Hansford and Cpl Reddish treated Major Godson's wounds under fire and evacuated him from his tank. He was brought out of battle by a tank of 2nd RGH. In the meantime Capt. Vaughan's and Sgt Medlar's tanks were hit by anti-tank gunfire. At 1650 the Regiment received orders to encircle GUBI and accordingly rallied at 181 423369. B Squadron was still silent and did not come to the rallying point. The Regiment advanced to 42037 and deployed facing West. Visibility was becoming bad and at 1750 orders were received to close leaguer in the area 424375.  
  20/11/41   The role assigned to 22nd Armd Brigade was to secure the area NE of BIR EL GUBI. Information however reached higher command that 4th Armd Brigade, now in the area north of GABR MELIHA 4635, was likely to be heavily attacked by tanks at noon and 22nd Armd Brigade was accordingly directed to move eastwards with a view to operating with 4th Armd Brigade. 3rd CLY passed SP at Pt. 183 430372 at 1340 and reached GABR SALEH at 1620, having one troop of RHA under command. 200 MET were reported at 455375 and later 40 tanks and 30 B vehicles further South. There was some ineffective enemy shelling. At 1730 the Regiment put in an attack north eastwards from Pt. 191 461366 on enemy MET, but the action was broken off as darkness fell. The Regiment leaguered at Pt. 189 464363. The guns were withdrawn from command.   
      No refuelling took place that night. 
  21/11/41  During the small hours a good deal of enemy movement was heard from the north. Enemy apparently moving from West to East. Between 0620 and 0730 columns of AFVs and MET were observed moving Southwest. These turned West on contact and 22nd Armd Brigade followed up in a NNW direction, being ordered to push on to SIDI REZEGH. At noon the enemy in the area 448382 were shelled. The Regiment reached Pt. 178 439380 at 1250, started refuelling at 1315 and moved on at 1445.  
      At 1550 enemy opened fire from the right. An LO arrived from 7th Armd Brigade which was being hard pressed on our right. He was sent to Brigade HQ and we were ordered by Brigade NOT to become involved in this action. At 1610 the Regiment reached HAGFET EN NADURA and then turned due North. At 433389 LO from 7th Armd Brigade again arrived. 7th Armd Brigade could be seen engaged on right with many tanks on fire. The enemy had taken a hull-down position behind a ridge running East - West in the area.  
      The Regiment then put in an attack North-eastwards, A Squadron left, C Squadron right. Light was failing and at 1750 the Regiment leaguered at 431391. C Sqn had taken the brunt of the fighting. Seven enemy tanks were destroyed. Our losses were one tank burnt out, six severely damaged but repairable. 
     Casualties:
Killed:2Lt JS Hansen-Bay C Squadron
Wounded: Tpr Connelly C Squadron
 Cpl Coppard C Squadron
 Tpr Rywell C Squadron
 Tpr Sloan C Squadron
 
  22/11/41  After the battle at BIR ES SREUI the Regiment moved back to leaguer in the are 432392. At approximately 0700 the order came to move Northeast to engage enemy reported in the general area 433395. At 0725 a report came through of 50 enemy tanks at 431398 and shortly afterwards these were reported moving South. We engaged the enemy 433395 the action lasting until about noon. Tpr Richmond A Squadron wounded and Sgt Boothby'' tank damaged. No claims of damage to the enemy could be confirmed. At 1300 the Brigade, with the Regiment on the right, 4th CLY leading and 2nd RGH on the left were ordered to advance due North directed on to the ridge 433401 with orders not to move North of that ridge without direct orders. On arrival at the ridge orders to advance due North and to halt one mile South of the REZEGH escarpment were given by Brigade. 
     At 1400 a force of German Mk IIIs tanks reported a 40 in number were observed moving Southeast from the SIDI REZEGH ridge in the direction of area 433405. We saw 4th CLY go into action and we ourselves on the right flank engaged the enemy at 1000 yards. The battle lasted until dusk and the enemy maintained his hold on the SIDI REZEGH ridge. FIVE of our tanks came out action in battleworthy condition.  
     After receiving orders to move to our leaguer of the previous night we were ordered to move forthwith with all available tanks to the approx area 420401, where we were to form part of a composite regiment made up of the remnant of the 22nd Armd Brigade under Lt Col WG Carr. The five battleworthy tanks with 3 tanks from Brigade LRS moved off at about 2040. We leaguered in the area 426398 under orders given over the R/T. Capt. Reddish and Capt. Moncreiff missing and NOT heard of again.  
  23/11/41  At first light we completed the approach march and on arrival at 420401 Lt Col RK Jago reported to Lt Col WG Carr and was ordered to take up position on the left of the composite Regiment facing Northwest and to be prepared to receive an attack from the direction of EL ADEM. Our task in general terms was to protect the left flank of the 5th South African Brigade against an armoured attack from the Northwest.  
     At about 1400 it became clear that an enemy armoured force was moving Northwest from the area 423395 and the composite Regiment was ordered to face about, the 3rd CLY now on the right flank prepared to receive an attack from the Southeast. Enemy tanks were observed in the area 423395, stationary and apparently refuelling. 
     At 1530 the enemy tanks attacked and the number was estimated at 60. In the ensuing battle we engaged the enemy at 800 yards range and all but FOUR of our tanks were destroyed. The battle culminated in a charge, led by Lt Col WG Carr from right to left across the enemy's front. The enemy did not relax his pressure and the surviving tanks rallied at approx 428400. At last light the enemy was seen to bring up his lorried infantry and it appeared that the bulk of the 5th South African Brigade had been overrun. 
     The officers taking part in the action were:-Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD, Major GGL Willis, Capt. GK Barber (taken prisoner), Capt. AW Grant, Lt JG Caunce, 2Lt AR Lindsay (taken prisoner), 2Lt ID Zvegintzov and 2Lt RO Davis. 
  24/11/41  The only tanks from the Regiment which had reached the Brigade leaguer were those of Capt. AW Grant and 2Lt ID Zvegintzov (on tow) and in the morning of 24th November Capt. Grant's tank moved out to join the composite Regiment commanded by Lt Col WG Carr which spent the day in the area REGHEM in observation, using the Brigades guns to shell enemy concentration. This body was later in the day joined by Lt Col Jago, Major Willis and 2Lts Hiddleston and Aitken who had got out of touch with the Brigade and had to leaguer separately. 
      This day was the first day of "Echelon Stakes" i.e. Rommel's drive into Egypt. The Brigades B Echelon was driven back and the composite Regiment was serviced by a small party of 3rd and 4th CLY led by Capt. Bett 3rd CLY and Capt. Sutton 4th CLY. A large part of B echelon was captured, but the greater portion of the men under command Major CA Rich including Lts Andrew and Carew, escaped after 2 days in enemy hands. Lt Dodds was captured separately - ???????????. Yet another party nearly overrun by the Germans were those with broken down tanks following the SIDI REZEGH battle.  
     These included Majors Grafftey-Smith and Dickens who escaped, and 2Lt Bowling-Smith, who with 2Lt Henderson, fought an action in broken down tanks with Brigadier Plenaars 1st SA Brigade, against German tanks and was subsequently awarded an immediate MC. 
  25/11/41  During this day the "Echelon Stakes" were continued and Capt. Tatton was killed. The composite Regiment still commanded by Lt Col Carr spent the day in observation in area SAUSENNA. 
  26/11/41  This was another day of comparative inaction at NBEIDAT. B Squadron 4th CLY (Major Walker) attacked a column of German MT and destroyed 2 lorries and took prisoners. 
  27/11/41   The composite Regiment was ordered to take up battle position in area Pt. 187 and Pt. 192 to overlook TRIGH CAPUZEO along which Panzer troops were moving East to West. 3rd CLY Squadron under command Major GGL Willis was on left and German tanks were engaged at about 1500 hours.   
      The engagement was heavy and 3rd CLY Squadron lost 2 tanks set on fire. 2 German tanks and one large gun were destroyed by 3rd CLY Squadron.  
     
Killed Sgt Clancey A Squadron
Officers taking partLt Col RK Jago, MM TD  Major GGL Willis  Capt. AW Grant  2Lt JL Aitken  2Lt PR Hargreaves
 
  28/11/41   Lt Col Carr 4th CLY having been wounded on 27 November Lt Col RK Jago took command of 22nd Armd Brigade composite Regiment. In the morning enemy tanks were engaged in a running fight in which 22nd Armd Brigade fell back until 4th Armd Brigade were contacted on our right. Enemy then threw screen of anti-tank guns and appeared to be moving slowly Westwards.  
     In afternoon 4th Armd Brigade moved across to the left flank and both Brigade 25pdrs shelled the enemy very heavily in the area of MUFTAH. The enemy tanks stood off and fired at long range. Lt Col Jago's tank was involved in a collision and he was concussed and went to the rear, so Major Kitson 4th CLY took command of the composite Regiment with Major GGL Willis commanding 3rd CLY tanks which were taken in on two charges to 800 yards and out under smoke. 
     
Wounded Capt JN Vaughan
Officers taking part Major GGL Willis
  Capt. AW Grant
 
  29/11/41  The Brigade commenced its withdrawal to TRC but remaining tanks spent the day in area S.MUFTAH. In the afternoon the composite Regiment went to the support of 4th Armd Brigade on the ridge overlooking the MOHHAT SIDI REZEGH from the South. 
     The Squadron under Major Trevor (2nd RGH) went into action against MET in the valley. That night the Regiment withdrew into close leaguer about 5 miles South of S. MUFTAH. 
  30/11/41  Battleworthy tanks under command of Major OH DICKINS were placed under command of 4th Armd Brigade. Remainder of 22nd Armd Brigade withdrawn to TRC in area. 
        

 

 

December 1941

Commanding Officer: Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices
  Dec 41  3rd County of London Yeomanry  
  1/12/41  
Strength:Officers 26, 3 attached from other arms
 WO Class 11
 WO Class 27
 SQMS4
 Sgts35
 Cpls48
 Tprs429
Total  524
Attached from other units 22 (specialists).
These strengths are for the end of the reorganisation period.
The Brigade having been withdrawn except for a Squadron under Major OH Dickens, the 3rd Sharpshooters went into open leaguer in reforming area 458330. Lt Col RK Jago, MM TD, was granted sick leave and the Regiment was commanded by Major GGL Willis in the absence of Major AP Grafftey-Smith. B Echelon was brought 3 miles behind the Brigade and spare crews were brought up. The Regiment received tanks from Ordnance and reformed into squadrons. Capt. RL Maton left the Regiment for LOB, his position of Tech Adjt being taken by 2Lt EH New. Major AP Grafftey-Smith assumed command of the Regiment and		  
      The rest of the month is mssing, but please see below Appendix  

 

 

 

December 1941

Commanding Officer: Major AP Grafftey-Smith.

Place Date Hour Summary of Events and Information References to Appendices

APPENDIX.

Dicky Force.
 

Dec

On 1st. Dec, 1941 a composite Regiment was formed from 22 A.B. under command Major C.H. Dickins. The force consisted of:-

‘H.Q’ Major C.H. Dickins

T/Capt. D.McCall (4th. C.L.Y.) (acting 2 i/c and Rear Link)

One Squadron commanded by Major George Yule, (2. R.T.R.) consisting largely of A.13’s. with one Troop of A. 15’s. With the exception of 2/Lt. Pierce (4th. C.L.Y) this Squadron was officered by 2 R.T.R.

One Squadron commanded by Major Mark Rudkin M.C. 2nd R.T.R. consisting of two A.10’s. 
     

Troop Leaders.       Lieut.      Milvain, 2 R.G.H.

 

                                 “           Bowling Smith, M.C. 3 C.L.Y.

                               2/Lt.        I.D. Zevegintzov 3 C.L.Y.

                               2/Lt.        A. Hendersonccc 3 C.L.Y.

On the afternoon of 1st. Dec. “Dicky Force” reported to 4th. Armoured Brigade ‘HQ’ (Brig. Gatehouse, D.S.O. M.C.) at SIDI MUFTAH and formed the third regiment in that Brigade, the 8th. Hussars having suffered large casualties in tanks and men.

On Dec.     Major Lord Cranley arrived at 4th Armoured Brigade with 23 A.15’s

A third Squadron was formed and the surplus tanks given to the other two Squadrons to make up.

By this time “C” Battery 4th R.H.A. (Capt Lomas) had been attached to this force which now assumed magnificent proportions.

“Dicky Force” operated with 4th. Armoured brigade until 13th deck when they rejoined 222nd. Armd. Bde. at BIR LEFA.

Actions fought included SIDI REZEGH when the brigade went to the relief of the New Zealand forces. BIR El GUBI from where it followed up the retreating enemy forces in a North-Westerly direction, ending up on the “Cross Tracks“ some 5 miles West of BIR BELLEFAH.
  

Dec 25

Christmas Day was spent in same area, the Regiment being under orders to move at one hours notice. First “sea-mail” arrived.

Tank state on move off 36 Arrival 32.
 

Dec 26

Moved off at 0700 hrs for CHOR-ES-SUFAN X2090. After completing 36 miles on correct bearing the Regiment halted to replenish. The Replenishment party took a long time to arrive having been left behind due to the face pace set by the leading Regiment. During the replenishment Reids Force reported Enemy M.E.T. and 2 or 3 tanks to the S.W. some 3 miles from EL HASEIAT. Replenishment was complete by 1523 hrs. The Brigade then changed course and headed for EL HASEIAT. 1600 hrs 4 Sharpshooters confirm Reids Force report of 100 M.E.T. and 3 tanks at EL HASEIAT. The Brigade took up “Battle Positions” on the ridge overlooking EL HASIET. 3 Sharpshooter were left-hand Regiment. ‘B’ Sqn. leading, ‘C’ Sqn. on the left, ‘A’ Sqn. right. ‘B’ Sqn. sent 2/Lt. Bowling Smith M.C. with a patrol to the left front.

Shelling came down on the Regiment from the Right Front, and it could be seen that the 4 Sharpshooters and 2 R.G.H. were firing on M.E.T. and tanks in the valley. H.1. Battery shelled the M.E.T. and both Tanks and MET withdrew to the South. By this time the light was rapidly failing. At 1800 hr the order was received from Brigade to break off engagement and leaguer at own discretion. The Regiment then leaguered back to the South about 3 miles. Replenishment was to be sent for at “First Light”.

Tank state on move off 37 on arrival 34.
  

Dec. 27

At 0726 hrs orders were received from Brigade to move into position, 3 Sharpshooters leading, 2 R.G.H. right, 4 Sharpshooters left. At 0904 hrs 3 Sharpshooters were ordered to move via CHOR-ES-SUFAN to BIR CHEC?????ET C 0 191. The Regiment moved in the formation ‘B’ Sqn, leading, ‘A’ Sqn. right ‘C’ Sqn. left. 0945 hrs report from leading Sqn, of tanks about 4 miles from starting point. 0931 hrs 5 vehicle reported from ‘B’ Sqn, very far away moving S.W. 0952 report of 10 M.E.T. 4 miles to left front. 1008 hrs 30 to 40 MET 4 miles to left front. Regiment was ordered to take no action but continue on same bearing. 1016 hrs report of 15 enemy tanks coming towards our positions 4 miles from left flank. 1018 hrs orders to take up battle positions just south of CHOR-ES-SUFAN. 1025 hrs ‘B’ Sqn confirm report of 13 enemy tanks and some wheeled vehicle. H.1. Battery 2 RHA these 1030 hrs tanks estimated to be 6 miles S.S.E. of objective a moving from right to left. The thirteen enemy tanks which turned out to be Mark 111s, apparently recently landed in the Middle East (they had no Afrika Corps signs and the paint was fresh) closed to about 1,500 yards. ‘B’ Squadron was ordered engage them. The enemy tanks retired when we opened fire and a running fight ensued in which two of the Mark 111s were knocked out.

The remaining eleven halted and faced about on the CHOR-ES-SUFAN feature. The ground was favourable to the enemy and ‘B’ Squadron halted with the enemy lining the bridge facing South-East. Owing to the nature of the ground it was thought that it would be unwise to attack a frontally. The 4th Sharpshooters on the left pushed forward and we met at 11:50 hrs. by sixteen enemy tanks. These were engaged and they withdrew behind the main feature. H.I. Battery, 2nd R.H.A. shelled eleven tanks throughout the afternoon and no movement was seen. No further advances made by us and at dusk Major A.P. Grafftey-Smith ordered a detachment of ‘B’ Company 9th Rifle Brigade to move forward after dark and investigate if possible destroy the eleven tanks which had held up our advance. The following morning the infantry reported that all the tanks have been moved and that the enemy had leaguered about 5,000 yards to the South-West of the Ridge. Major A.W. Grant M.C. (B Sqn) recovered his abandoned tank under cover of night. The Regiment then withdrew East about 5000 yards and into leaguer

Casualties: Killed - L/Cpl. Boreham

             Wounded - Tpr. Steward.J.
  

Dec 28

Tank state – 30 tanks.

3rd Sharpshooters moved back into their position of the previous evening at 1000 hrs. MET was observed on the left front and was engaged by our battery. At 1142 hours the enemy put down smoke and was seen to be moving up guns. 2/Lt. A.F. Gale whose tank have broken down the previous evening and had been left out of leaguer, came on the air reported 40 MET including three anti-tank guns approaching him from the North. His tank was immobile. He engaged the column at close range knocking out two of the anti-tank guns. Ultimately his tank was hit in the turret ring and he with his crew was forced to abandon tank.

He rejoined the Regimental ‘A’ Echelon, bringing with him a crews of two ambulances and his own crew intact. At 1215 hours a general movement was seen on the Chor-es-Sufan ridge, and 1230 hours we engaged twenty-two enemy tanks about 1,000 yards. After about twenty minutes’ action the enemy sought and founded the right flank off the Brigade and 2nd R.G.H. were forced to fall back South. The 3rd Sharpshooters confirmed pivoting on the 4th Sharpshooters. By this time ammunition was almost exhausted and it became clear that a withdrawal would have to be made. At 1430 hours Major A.P. Grafftey-Smith was ordered to take over command to the Brigade. He ordered a withdrawal due South after crossing the WADI FAREGH we swung due East with the enemy in pursuit. A rearguard was detailed and succeeded in delaying the enemy until the Brigade Group, less Brigade Headquarters, arrived at 1742 hours in the area XC. 400707 where it went into leaguer and replenishment was completed by 2250 hours.

In the course of this action ‘A’ Echelon was shelled and chase by the enemy.

Casualties: - Killed – 2/Lt. Zvegintzov

Wounded – 788552 Tpr. Carter. M.J

                   7910487 Tpr. Lerggett, R.A.

                    (both of ‘A’ Squadron)

                    7918160 Tpr, Percey, S

                    7916721 Tpr. Drake, A,

                     (both of ‘B’ Sqn.)

Dec 29

Tank state on breaking leaguer - 9 tanks.

At 0730 hours the Regiment moved to a position 5 miles due West of EL-HASEIAT and at 0952 hours halted in position facing North. ‘A’ Echelon rejoined the Regiment and we refuelled.

We remained in this position until 1214 hours when the Battery was shelled. Brigadier Scott-Cockburn arrived with orders to move to the general area, BELANDAH, reference SX. 30000850 where we were to take up position facing South and South-East and protecting the left flank of the 22nd Guards Brigade.

We moved off at 1235 hours and at 1357 hours took up battle positions facing South and South-East. There was much enemy movement to West and South observed in the afternoon and at last night the Regiment league did in the area SX. 300060. At 2145 hours that night anti-tank gunfire was heard to the North-West of the leaguer and a report came from Brigade that two enemy lorries had been destroyed. It was thought that they had been laying mines.

Dec 30

The Regiment opened leaguer at first light with 9 tanks and moved to battle positions on the BELANDAH feature facing South and South-East. The Brigade formation was 4th Sharpshooters, right, 3rd Sharpshooters, centre, 2nd R.G.H., left. At 0744 hours MET was observed in the area SX. 290000 and was engaged by our battery. At 9:30 hours a general movement was observed in the area SE. 370000 and forty-seven enemy tanks were counted moving North-West on the track EL-HASEIAT - AGEDABIA. At 0937 hours Brigade ordered us to swing North-East and face the enemy and accordingly the Regiment moved to the North edge of the BELANDAH feature and faced South-East. The 4th C.L.Y on our right was ordered to confirm. The ensuing battle lasted about one hour and in the course of it both Major A.P. Grafftey-Smith and Major A.W. Grant's tanks were knocked out.

Major Kidston, 4th C.L.Y. was ordered to assume command of the Brigade.

A rearguard action was fought by the remaining four tanks of the Regiment commanded by Major G.G.L. Willis, D.S.O., Lt J.G. Caunce, Lt. A.L. Murray and 2/Lt J.M. Hiddleston and the enemy halted. The order then came for us to withdraw to a Bir at SX.310200 where we rallied with ‘A’ Echelon. Subsequently the order came to move to SX.510780 where we arrived with one tank.

Casualties: Wounded - 7891772 A/L/Sgt. Burrows, H.A.

                                            (‘A’ Squadron)

                    Missing - 7906147 Tpr. Dakin, G.R.H – ‘HQ’ Sqn

                                    7886804 W/S/Sgt. Hansford W.H. M.M ‘B’ Sqn

                                    7890155 Tpr, Huxstable, J.D. ‘C’ Sqn

                                    7890217 Tpr. Lang, J.G. ‘B’ “

                                    7889463 Tpr. Shaw. J.R. ‘HQ’ “
 

Dec.

30.

Tank State before battle 9 – after battle 4, all pronounced unbattlerworthy.
 

Dec.

31

1450 hrs moved off from last nights location to Area S 5776
 

 

 

 

 

TANK CASUALTIES – 3 SHARPSHOOTERS
 

Start.

39 Mk VI - 3 Mk IV - 3 M.3    Total 45

23.12.41

Starting from MEKHILI area

15733

Mk VI

Broken fan chain when starting

15690

     “

(5 miles) track off (broken)

16579

     “

(     “    ) broken track.

16561

     “

(8 miles) broken track

15556

     “

(13 miles) oil and water leak and U.S. compressor.

15724

(14 miles) water leak and U.S. compressor.

15580

(29 miles) fan sproket and oil leak.

15548

(29 miles) petrol stoppage (pump)

16561

(34 miles) broken suspension arm (front road wheel) and broken track

16600

(35 miles) fan sprocket and water leak.

16606

water leak
 

24.12.41

15778

(40 miles) two broken suspension arms and oil leak.

15676

(pump) petrol stoppage

16586

fan chain and dynamo not charging.

15577

dynamo not charging.

                 --------------------------
 

25.12.41

30 Mk VI - 3 Mk IV - 3 M.3 Total 45

Left for L.R.S. Before March

15578

Mk VI

Compressor

15577

     “

“

15693

     “

Water pump.

15757

     “

“ “

26.12.41

26 Mk VI - 3 Mk IV - 3 M.3 Total 45

15619

Mk VI

Water leaks

15232

     “

Water leaks

16600

Petrol stoppage
 

27.12.41

15705

Mk VI

Compressor

16637

     “

Shot through gear box

15597

     “

Power transfer

6232

Mk IV

Clutch U.S.
 

28.12.41 -

1100 hrs.

16584

Mk VI

Compressor

7057

Mk IV

Clutch

16634

Mk VI

Flat battery

15597

     “

Selectors - hand chain and power traverse.

15776

     “

Water pump

16600

     “

Air bottle and petrol
 

These on 28. 12.41 are the tanks being worked on when we were attacked and 5 of them had to be left by ES of CHOR ES SUFAN.
 

29.12.41

15597

Gear box U.S.

15765

Gear box and compressor.

16594

Fan and water.

15615

Fan and oil.
 

The above had to be abandoned at C 4595 when we are attacked as the fitters were busy on them.
 

30.12.41

15232

Mk IV

)

15617

Mk VI

) Taken to L.R.S. at SAUNNU by O.M.E.

16634

Mk VI

)

3 M.3.

)

9176

Mk IV

Abandoned in withdrawal (clutch and oil).
 

3.1.42

In Unit

At L.R.S.

Total 40

DU ??? also don’t tally with ??st of list
 

16561

15580

15613

15233

15556

15617

15803

15574

15620

16623

16593

16579

16620

15735

16585

15658

15664

15704

15578

A.13

15232

15795

M.3

15182

15757

29979
 

tanks which started from my chilli but not now with the Regiment or L.R.S.

15733 - 15778 - 15577 - 15619 - 15705 - 16637 - 16584

7053 (A.13) - 16634 - 15597 - 15776 - 16600 - 15765 - 15615 - 16594 - 9179 (A.13).
  

(Sgd) J.G. CAUNCE

Lieut and Adjt.

3 Sharpshooters.
  

Field

 4 Jan 42.
  
 

                

 

 

Home 1939 1940 1942
1943 1944 1945 1946
Previous Year Next Year

© 2023 Copyright www.desertrats.org.uk