War Diary of 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery 1941.

January 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Kinibish	1	A.M	Lieut-Colonel C.P.B Wilson R.H.A. visited H.Q. 7th Armd Div
512358			Capt, Redhead visited and remained night with R.H.Q.
			“D” Battery R.H.A. under command 7th Armd. Bde.
			“J” Battery R.H.A. under command C.R.A. 6th Australian Div.
			“M” Battery R.H.A. under command Support Group.
			“P” Battery R.H.A. under command C.R.A. 6th Australian Div.

	2		Lieut.Colonel C.P.B. Wilson R.H.A. visited 7th Armd Div, and “P” Battery R.H.A.
			Capt. Wyldbore-Smith and Lt Hammerton visited “M” Battery R.H.A.
			“P” Battery moved to battle positions.
			Telegram from H.M. the King circulated to all ranks

	3		Lt.Col. Wilson and Capt. Wyldbore-Smith visits forward areas
			T.S.M. Goode and Art.Sgt. Hoxey joined R.H.Q. from Base Depot
			2/Lieut. Reid from “D” Battery R.H.A. fro rest whilst sick
			Battle of Bardia commenced.

			“J” Battery moved to Bardia-Capuzzo Rd under heavy shellfire. 1 gun came into action with H.E.A.P. shell and neutralised a concrete post with 10 Rds causing approximately 30 casualties to the enemy.

	4		Lt.Col. Wilson visited 7th Armd Div.
			B.S.M. Smith T.S.M. Goode and Art.Sgt Hoxey to “P” Battery R.H.A.
			New Water vehicle arrived for R.H.Q.
			Battle for Bardia continues.
			“C” Troop “J” Battery under 19th Australian 8nf. Bde. engaged apill box put out of action 3 A/T, 10 Lt.M.G.s and took 100 prisoners.

	5		1030, Lt.Col. Wilson and Capt. Wyldbore-Smith to “P” Battery & forward areas
			Bardia captured by Australian troops.
			Major Cowan posted and joined 1st. Fld. Regt. R.A.

	6		R.H.Q. moved to area 486363.
			Lt.Col. Wilson called to 7th Armd Div. Advance H.Q.
			“M” Battery R.H.A. moved to area 487397.

	7		Capt. B.A. Eden R.H.A. joined RHQ from 1stRegt R.H.A.
			Six reinforcements joined RHQ from 1st Regt R.A. Base Depot.
			“P” Battery location 443405.

	8		Capt. B.A. Eden to “P” Battery
			Reinforcements to Batteries 1 to “M”
			2 to “P”
			2 to “D”
			1 to “J”

	9		Capt. Wyldbore-Smith to “D” Battery
			“P” Battery moved to 433417.

	10		R.H.Q. moved to area 428393.
			Officers of 7th Hussars returning from leave remained the night.
			2/Lt. Davies “P” Battery visited R.H.Q.
			Major Colchester posted to 7th Medium Regt R.A.

	11		Lt.Col. Wilson and Lt. Hammerton to “D” Battery.
			2/Lieut Reid returns to “D” Battery.
			Capt. Redhead visited R.H.Q.

	12		Capt. Wyldbore-Smith to “J” Battery
			Capt. O’Neill from “P” Battery.

	13		2/Lt.Gunn from “J” Battery
			2/Lt. Davies from “P” Battery

	14		C.O. to “M” Battery and “D” Battery
			Battle dress issuedto Regt.

	15		2 O.Rs leave as guests Gezira Sporting Club

	16		Lt. Bloomfield from “P” Battery.
			Capt. Humphreys R.A.M.C. arrive as Regt. M.O.

	17.		C.O. and Adjt to “P” Battery to watch 2 Pdr Firing.

	18.		Heavy duststorm.
			C.O. to “J” Battery and “P” Battery.
			C.O. to “P” Battery to watch 2Pdr Firing.
			Adjt. to “M” Battery and “D” Battery. remained the night at H.Q. 4th R.H.A.

	19.		R.S.M Limpkin took over duties as R.S.M. from B.S.M. Smith
			14 reinforcements arrived.

	20.		C.O. visited “M” Battery. Lt. Hammerton visited “J” Battery and “P” Battery.
			B.S.M returned to “J” Battery.

	21		Adjt. and C.O. visited HQ Australian division.
			Battle for Tobruk commenced.
			Lieut. Hammerton visited “D” and “M” Batteries.
			Message from “M” Battery stating 4 or 5000 prisoners had been taken by 0900 hrs.
		0830.	B Tp. J Bty. engaged and destroyed 2 enemy tanks when supporting 19th Australian Inf. Bde. on attack at tobruch. 3 more tanks were captured.
	22	1400	A Tp. J. Bty. crossed the start line with 2/4 Bn (Australian) on attack on Tobruch and engaged enemy dug in tanks.
			C Tp. J. Bty. with Australian Cavalry engaged and destroyed two enemy tanks as Fort SOLANO

	22	0900	C Tp. J. Bty. with Australian Inf. destroyed 2 enemy tanks N. of Tobruch town.
			C.O. and Adjt. visited H.Q. Aust. Div. Lieut. Hammerton to “J” Battery. L.A.D. workshop sent to cope with repairs to “J” Battery vehicles
			“B” Tp. “D” Battery. reported to R.H.Q. and came under command C.O. 3/R.H.A.
			Tobruch occupied by Australians after two days battle.

	23		Lt. Hammerton to ~~D “D” Battery~~ “J” Battery.
			Gnr. Painter “J” Battery and Witnesses (Sgt. Broad, Dvr. Brooklyn) arrived at R.H.Q. for F.G.C.M.

Benghasi	24		R.H.A. and Tp. “D” Battery went 80 Miles to Bir Eleima.
Bir Eleima
U/6392	25		Gnr. Painter tried by F.G.C.M.
			C.O. took “B” Tp. of D Battery to join the Battery who came under Command of 4th Armd Bde. C of E church Service was held at 1700.
			C.O. remained at Support Group.

	26.		Celebration of Holy Communion at 0730 hours.
			Major Yates assumes duties of 2nd in command on return from 6th Aust. Div.
			C.O. took over duties of C.R.A. Sp. Gp.

	27		Adjt. and office staff joined C.O. at HQ Support Group,
			Capt. Redhead visited R.H.Q.
			Lt. Sumner R.C. of Sigs. returned ex-Hosp.
			Mechli reported clear of enemy at 1000 hours.
			“J” Battery E. of ~~DERNA~~ bagged three tanks.

	28		Bdr. Berry went to find N.A.A.F.I.. All canteen commodities had run out less cigarettes. Lt. Hammerton and Lt. Sumner R.C. of Sigs. visited C.O.
			Adjt. to Adv. Div. H.Q.
			C.O. went on recce 0600 hrs.

	29		Col. Williams 1st Regt R.H.A. visited Adv. R.H.Q 1300 hrs.

	30.		Adjt. visited Rear R.H.Q. Sgt. Broad took 2 reinforcements to “J” Battery
			Dvr Thomas evacuated and Dvr. Nattras took over duties of C.Os Driver.
			Adv H.Q. moved 5 miles w. of Track at 1400 hrs
		1800	Major Yates ordered to (6^th Aust.Div)

	31		“J” Battery to 3430 with
			C.O. to C.R.H.A. Rear R.H.Q. moved to U/4596 C.O.. Adjt and Office staff return from H.Q. Support Group. 0900 hrs order detailing Major Yates to 6th Aust. Div was cancelled.

February 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
U/4596.	1		C.O. and Lt. QM. Whitby to leave Cairo. Major Yates Commands Regiment.
			Major Yates and Adjt. visited P and J Btys. Medical 15 Cwt. recovered by S/Sgt. Cork. L.A.D. and 2 Vehicles of J returned having been away 8 days/
“			Major Yates visited J and P Btys and stayed the night.
			Adjutant visited Adv.Div. Lieut. Sumner visited M Bty.
			3 Reinforcements joined RHQ. Marsden to leave.
		1700	M Bty and Sp Gp move on SLONTA.
“	3		Adj. with stores and reinforcements to D Bty, and M Bty, but couldn’t contact D Bty.
		1000	D Bty ordered to join 7 AB.
		1900	D Bty ordered to rejoin 4 AB.
			M Bty and SpGp. unable to reach SLONTA owing to bad going.
U/0251	4		RHQ moved about 60 miles to area SW of MECHELI (U/0251) under Major Yates.
			L.A.D. left with broken down vehicles on route. Bad going.
			ADjt. took forward reinforcement for D Bty. and met RHQ at bivouac Site.
			B.Q.M.S. Thurston took reinforcement P Bty 4 J Bty 13. to area GIOVANNA BERTA. O/079754.
			7 A.D. moved to MSUS en route for coast S.of BENGHASI.
S/8915	5		RHQ moved to S/8915 about 64 miles. L.A.D. not yet arrived.
S of MSUS			M Bty and Sp Gp ordered to area SOLUCG. D Bty with 4 AB., moved to ANELAT
S/8915	6		Cold windy day with a little rain and sandstorm. L.A.D. arrived 1700 hrs with all vehicles less one 10 ton LANCIA which had to be abandoned.
			All routes S from BENGHASI blocked by Jock’s force 4 AB. and 7 AB.
			Italians try to break through but fail.
S/8915	7		Adjt. informed all ranks of the situation. Day spent on maintenance.
			Major Yates to Armd.Div. via Rr.Div. where B.R.A. was met.
		0900	Information received that BENGHASI Fellprevious night and General BERGONZOLI and about 16000 prisoners taken. Italians finally surrendered about 1 p.m.
S/8915	8		Adjt. to HQ AD.Div. and D Bty. Lt. Sumner R.C. of Sigs. and RSM to BENGHASI to obtain canteen storesbut were unsuccessful as all shops were closed.
			Arms check and inspection carried out.
S/8915	9		Major Yates to M Bty with O.M.E. and stores.
	10		Orders received for move to Rr.Div and 3RHA to take place on 11th.
R/9805	11	0900	3 RHA HQ move to EL MOGRUM. Empty Italian hospital used his billet.
			Major Yates arrived from P and J Btys. S.O.R.A. (Major Thomas) and C.RHA Colonel S. Williams M.C. visited at 1500 hours.
			Major Eden P Bty arrived at 1600.
	12		Lieut. Bloomfield P Bty arrived RHQ 1100. Lieut. Hammerton R.A.O.C. went off to recover lorry of M Bty.
		1130	Major Stewart arrived to choose site for D Bty.
		1630	DBty moved in. Heard BENGHAZI bombed during the night.
	13.		Officer i/c Signal Section to M HQ 36 miles SW of AGEDABIA with W/T 8 Cwt. to replace one blown up my a mine on Feb 10th.
		1000	W/T Message from P Bty to say that P Bty and J Bty reverted to Corps control on Feb 13th, and were to move to CIRENE at once: apparently to perform internal Security Duties.
		1030	Adjt. to BENGHASI with Lt.Col. Campbell.
		1730	Captain O’Neill returned from leave, and Lieut Watt from Hospital together wit 13 O.Rs.
		1800	Lt.Col. Wilson and Lt. QM. Whitby returned from leave.
	14.	0900	C.O. and Major Yates to Adv.Div and M Bty.
		0630	L.A.D. machine gunned from air one 15 Cwt and one Italian Fiat damaged.
		0800	D Battery reported various thefts during the night & reported to M.P. at Rr Div HQ.
		1500	Orders received from C.O. to move RHQ out of village as precautions against bombing. RHQ moved 1000 yds NW of MAGRUM. at 1700 hrs.
	15	0600	One Heinkel flew over area for third day in succession and bombed area up the road.
			Major Yates went on leave. C.O. and Adjt to BENGHASI. Lieut. Watt and Lt. QM Whitby went to J and P Btys at CIRENE.
	16	0600	Heinkel flew over area. Party from D Bty and RHQ. visited BENGHASI.
		1030	Major P.T. O’Brien-Butler and 2 Signallers were machine gunned by 10 Messerschidt 110, on road S of AGEDABIA. All three were wounded.
	17	1100	C.O. and Adjt. to Adv.Div 5 miles N of AGEDABIA.
		1300	Captain Redhead to conference at Rr Div. HQ on road protection measures .
			Information received that HQ 3RHA with D and M Btys would be relieved with 7 A.D. Lieut. Watt returned from J and P Btys
	18	1100	Lieut. Watt to HQ Sp. Gp, at ANTELAT to receive orders for 3 RHA.	7th Armd Div. Operations Instruction: Appendix I
	19		Permission received from Support Group for RHQ and D Bty to remain in present location at MAGRUM. and to join the Sp Gp. at end of first days march. M Bty did a night march on night 18/19 to Sp Gp Concentration area at ANTELAT	Support Group Movement Order: Appendix II
			Ammunition of M and D Btys handed in at BENGHASI.	3RHA Administrative Instruction: Appendix III
	20		LT QM and Lieut Hatch left with RQMS on regimental advance party.
	21		RHQ and D Bty moved off at 0845 and travelled by SOLUCH, SCE LEBEIMA and MUS to Sp Gp. bivouac area in map square T.15 a distance of 84 Mls.	3 RHA movement order 20/2: Appendix IV
	22.		RHQ. M and D Btys marched N in the Sp.Gp. column to GOT Derna thence E. to 5 mls beyond MECHILI. a distance of 95 miles. The going was very rough and dusty.
	23.		Lieut Watt. acted as Liaison officer and travelled with Sp.Gp.HQ
			The march today was through TMIMI and on to the coast Road at 96 kilos W of TOBRUCH.
			The bivouac area was 26 miles W of TOBRUK. Total distance about 110 miles.
	24.		Ever stay near TOBRUK, for maintenance, P and J Btys joined the regiment in the evening, from CIRENE, on their way to AMARIYA and the regiment was united fro the first time since beginning of May 1940.	3RHA Admin Instruction 24/2: Appendix V
			Ammunition of P and J Btys was handed in to ordinance Amn. Dump at TOBRUK.
	25		The regiment marched to area BUQBUQ, a good march of 140 miles.
	26.		The Regiment marched to Kilo 8 beyond MATRUH. about 120 miles
			The road was still very bad, andit was best to travel on the desert. beside the road for long stretches.
	27.		The next days march brought us to 140 mls to a point about 20 mls West of AMARIYA. Lt. Col. Wilson went into Alexandria and brought back the welcome news that P and J Btys will not after all, to stay at AMARIYA, but were to come with the regiment to Cairo.
	28.		Advance parties of one vehicle per bty left at 0600 hrs, and the remainder of the regiment arrived at BENI YUSEF at 1500 hrs a distance 140 miles


Appendix I
COPY No…..

7 Armd Div Adin Instruc No 5 18 Feb 41
(Issued in conjunction with Operation Instruction No. 11.

Ref Map BENGASI 1/500, 000.

1. Movements. Units of 7 Armd Div as under will move from present locations to MENA Camp area in accordance with instructions given below. 2. Allotment of Troops. (a) 7 Armd Bde Gp. H.Q. and Sigs. 7 Armd Bde. 4 R.H.A.. 2 Fd Sgn R.E. less one Tp. 141 Fd Pk Tp. R.E. H.Q. “B” and “C” Secs 15 Lt Fd Amb. 3 L.R.S. and Rec. Det. Sec O.F.P. Det C.M.P. 65 Coy R.A.S.C. with det Water Coy Approx. strength : - Personnel 1500 ) Excluding Vehicles 526 ) R.A.S.C. (b) Sp Gp Gp. H.Q. and Sigs. Sp. Gp. 1 R.H.A. 3 R.H.A. less two Btys. 2 R.B. 1 K.R.R.C. “D” Sect 13 Lt Fd Amb. “A” and “D” Secs 15 Lt Fd Amb. 1 L.R.S. and Rec Det. Sec O.F.P. Det C.M.P. 550 Coy R.A.S.C. with det Water Coy Approx. strength : - Personnel 2570 ) Excluding Vehicles 523 ) R.A.S.C. 3. (c) 4 Armd Bde Gp. H.Q. and Sigs. 4 Armd Bde. 7 H 2 R. Tanks. H.Q. “A” and “B” Sec 14 Lt Fd Ambs 2 L.R.S. and Rec Det. Sec O.F.P. H.Q. and Sec Provost Coy. H.Q. and Sigs. 7 Armd Div. 5 Coy R.A. S.C. 58 Coy R.A.S.C. Det 1 Water Coy. Approx. strength : - Personnel 1533 ) Excluding Vehicles 395 ) R.A.S.C. (d) Troops remaining CYRENAICA. 1 K.D.G. and R.A.F. A.C. Sqn 3 H. 3/106 Bty R.H.A. 4/106 Bty R.H.A. One Tp. 2 Fd Sqn R.E. 1 French Inf Marine. 1 Lt A.A. Bty. Armd Div W/Shops. Plt 208 Sqn. R.A.F. Det R.A.S.C. 155 Lt. A.A. Bty. 3. Route. Concentration Area – MSUS – GOT DERVA .38 – MACHILI – TMINI thence by Main Road. 4. Programme of Movements. See Appendix “A” Attached. 5. Action before leaving Concentration Area. (a) Handing over of “A” Vehicles. (i) 3 H. will be made up to 46 Light Tanks by 4 Armd Bde. All remaining Light Tanks will be despatched to Arm Div Workshops located on road BENGASI – GHEMINES 13 K.P. (ii) All Cruiser Tanks will be despatched to Armd Div Workshops by 1800 hrs 20 Feb. These Tanks will proceed to Egypt by sea either from BENGASI or Tobruch. If from BENGASI driver only remains with Tank. If from Tobruch a crew of three with each Tank. ?? 2nd Line will be provided by C., R.A.S.C. (iii) 25 Bren Carriers from Sp. Gp. Will report H.Q. 4 Armd Bde BEDA FOMM 18 Feb and will be taken over by 1 Aust. Corps 19 Feb. All remaining Bren Carriers to be handed in to Armd Div Workshops by 1800 hrs 19 Feb. One driver to remain with each Carrier. (iv) Armd Div Workshops will issues when available :- 6 Lt Tanks fitted with 9 Sets to 3 H. 28 Lt Tanks fitted with 11 Sets to Aust Corps (b) Handover of Wireless Sets. (i) O.C. 3 H. will arrange that 30 No.11 W/T Sets are held in Armd Bde Workshops and handed over to H.Q. 3 Armd Bde on arrival. (ii) 4 R.H.A. will hand over all No.11 W/T Sets to Armd Div Workshops by 1800 hrs 19 Feb. (c) M.T. Spare Parts. All Light Tanks and Bren Carriers Spare Parts will be handed in to A.O.D. BENGASI. All Cruiser Tank spare parts will be taken to CAIRO. (d) M.T. Spare Parts. All types boxed ammunition will be handed in to A.A.D. BENGASI located area R 9773. 6. Administration Arrangements for Move. (a) Supplies. Units will draw two days rations and on days water on the day prior to move from concentration Area. One days rations wand water will be carried in R.A.S.C. 2nd Line with Bde Gps. One days water will be drawb at MACHILI in Unit water carts. O.C. 2nd Fd Sqn R.E. will arrange for the maintenance of a water point at MACHILI. Two days rations and water will be drawn at each TOBRUCH and MATRUH. If a days halt is ordered at MATRUH an extra days ration and water will be drawn. (b) Supplies. Formations will ensure that all vehicle tanks are full and “B” Echelon loads complete before leaving concentration area. C.,R.A.S.C. will arrange for sufficient petrol to be carried in 2nd line transport to enable formations to reach staging points. (c) Bivoauc Areas. Formations will arrange direct with L of C Sub Area Commanders for allotment of bivouac Areas. 7. Administration Arrangements for Move. At commencement of each days march Formations will send a Staff Officers in advance to report to H.Q. MENA Sub-Area where full instructions will be issued. Staff Captain, 7 Armd Div will be responsible for the preparation and delivery of Administrative Instructions to Formations and Units on arrival 8. Medical. (a) Medial units will join Gps as follows. (i) 7 Armd Bde Gp. H.Q. and “B” Sec 15 Sec 15 Lt Fd Amb by 1200 hrs 19 Feb. (ii) Sup Gp Gp. “A” & “D” Secs 15 Lt Fd Amb by 1200 hrs 20 Feb. (iii) 4 Armd Bde Gp. H.Q. and “B” Sec 13 Lt Fd Amb by time & date to be notified later. (b) Casualties which occur en route will be carried forward to medical units detailed below :- TOBRUCH - General Hospital Bardia - C.C.S. SIDIBARRANI- M.D.S. in Italian Hospital. MATRUH - G.H.Q . Medical Area. MENA - Reception Station. 9. Ordnance. (a) Recovery. (i) Every effort will be made by formations to ensure no crocks are left between staging points. It it should become essential to abandon a vehicle on the desert its load and crew should be removed. (ii) Recovery vehicles capable of carrying out a suspended tow will accompany each formation. S.O.M.E. will arrange. (iii) The Main Body of the Recovery Detachment will move in rear if 4 Armd Bde Gp. (iv) Vehicles incapable of moving will be handed in to R.A.O.C. at TOBRUCH or MATRUH. (b) Despatch of Personal from Armd Div W/Shops. O.C. Armd Div W/Shops will arrange for the return to MENA of 7 Armd Div personnel whose vehicles have been either evacuated or handed over to another unit. 10. Provost. Detachments of Provost Company will join Groups as follows :- (a) 3 H Gp. - two secs by 1200 hrs 19 Feb. (b) 7 Armd Bde Gp. - one sec by 1200 hrs 19 Feb (c) Sp Gp Gp. - one sec by 1200 hrs 20 Feb. (d) 4 Armd Bde Gp. - one sec time and date to be notified later. 11. 7 Armd Div Reinforcement Camp. (a) On arrival TOBRUCH area Formations will arrange for units to collect their own personnel from Div Reinforcement Camp. (b) When the Division has passed through TOBRUCH the O.C. Reinforcement Camp will:- (i) Despatch all personnel not belonging to 7 Armd Dive to the Leave and Transit Camp, TOBRUCH. (ii) Arrange for all remaining 7 Armd Div personnel to be despatched by sea. (iii) Hand in to R.A.O.C. TOBRUCH all equipment no longer required and close the Camp. (iv) Hand in to O.C. TOBRUCH Sub-area all captured Transport and proceed with permanent staff to MENA. 12. Captured Italian Vehicles. (a) Cars. Units may take two cars per unit back to MENA. Disposal instructions will be issued on arrival. (b) Load Carrying Vehicles. Units will hand all captured load carrying vehicles into the Divisional Vehicle Dump before leaving the Concentration Area. Units are permitted to retain vehicles essential for carrying stores until arrival at TOBRUCH where they will be handed in to O.C. TOBRUCH Sub-area and the loads transferred to other vehicles or despatched by sea. No load carrying capture vehicle will proceed EAST of TOBRUCH. 13. Collection of Dumped Stores. All stores and equipment left by Units in SIWA Rd area have been collected and are stored in MATRUH under arrangements made by O.C. Div Reinforcement Camp. Units will collect these stores in transit and if necessary arrange for their despatch by rail to MENA. 14. Administration of Units Remaining CYRENAICA. Units enumerated in para 2 (d) will be administrated under existing arrangement until other instructions are issued by 1Aust Corps or 3rd Armd Bde. 15. Intercomn. See Appendix “B” attached.
Lt.Col
A.A. & Q.M.G.

DISTRIBUTION

March 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
			In Lieu of A.F.G.2118
Date & Place	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Beni Yusef 1st.		The Regiment was at last re-united in one camp at Beni Yusef. Today was spent in organisation of the Camp and its future administration. Many queries such as Dress, liberty of men, transport to and from Cairo, accommodation in Camp, and so on. The C.O. walked the Camp area. He was later visited by the Brigadier Mr Hewan appointed sports officer. He attended a Support Group conference on sports. 2/Lieut. K.S. Watt takes over duties of Regimental Officer i/c MT. TSM. GOODE. F. is also transferred to the MT Office.
2nd.		The Regiment has the furthest west camp site, and adequate hut accommodation. Majores M. YATES is promoted Lieut.Colonel prior to his taking up staff duties as C.B.Officer. Great difficulty is experienced by all ranks in getting back to the Unit from Cairo. It was decided to replace existing transport in operation for taking O.Rs to Cairo, by a transport system of our own, using lorries. Gnr CRAWFORD is seriously injured in a 15 Cwt, when it was involved in a road accident in Heliopolis. Very windy and dusty weather. Church Parade in camp voluntary.
3rd.		Lt.Col. WILSON saw Brigadier MAXWELL, the B.R.A. at a conference at which it was decided to disband “P” Bty, and form a three-bty Regiment. O.M.E. started inspection of all vehicles.
4th.		Limited leave is granted to Officers and men.
5th.		An order on 24th February, whilst still in the field, appointed Capt. A. REDHEAD R.H.A. Officer i/c Regimental messing. 2/Lieut. D.G.R. Reid R.H.A. Officers’ Mess Secretary.
6th.		Organised games started. Hockey and Football are being played on an Inter-Troop basis at first. In order to give as many men as possible a game. Later they will be played on an Inter-Bty basis, giving time for the better players to be selected.
Beni Yusef 7th.		The name of 2Lt. GUNN of “J” Battery appeared General Orders of this date as having been awarded the M.C.
8th.	1200	At meeting presided over by the Adjutant made arrangements for disbanding of “P” Battery.	APPENDIX II
9th.		Nil.
10th.		“P” Battery had a farewell dinner in the troops’ mess hut, which the C.O. and Major COLCHESTER attended. Major ACKROYD-HUNT joined the Regiment as 2nd in Command from the Norfolk Yeomanry. We were ordered to give in eight of our Bofors with portees.
11th.	0830 1400	Most of the MT of “P” Battery was distributed amongst the other batteries and taken over by the various drivers. The Commander of the Cairo Base Sub-area Brigadier McMICKING visited the camp. The C.R.H.A. Colonel. WILLIAMS visited us during the afternoon and had tea in the mess. Major LEWIN joined the Unit from 4th Regiment R.H.A. Ordnance Workshops for refitting.
12th.		Major LEWIN posted to “J” Battery. Major EDEN is posted to “M” Battery. Capt. RODIER of “P” Battery is posted to 1st Regiment RHA. 2/Lieut. BLOMEFIELD of “P” Battery is posted to “D” Battery. The remainder of “P” Battery vehicles are transferred. The Lt & QM and MT Officer attended a meeting in POLYGON Abbassia, of representatives of all 7th Armd.Div. Units. We are not on any priority list yet but all indents to bring the Unit up to its G.1098 scale are to be submitted. A/BQMS Bird. C.B. succeeds RSM Limpkin and is appointed as A/RSM.
13th.		Nil.
Beni Yusef 14th.		The C.R.H.A. called in the morning. During all this time we were handing in our Class III and iV vehicles for repair
15th.		“J” Battery were ordered to move out on 20th March 1941,
16th.		No more vehicles allowed to be sent for repair. All 7th Armd.Div vehicles ordered to be sent into the Reserve Vehicle station, Abbassia.
17th.		The C.R.H.A. and S.O.R.A. Capt STOREY visited us in the morning
18th.		Operation order issues for the move of “J” Battery. (Appendix iii) Captain SMITH of “J” Battery joined General Staff, ME, as GSO.3
19th.		Departure of “J” Battery postponed for one dat. (Appendix iv)
20th.		Nil.
21st.		“J” Battery left at 0800 hrs. Destination TOBRUK. They were well equipped for vehicles, since they had the best of the whole Regiment, also five new vehicles direct from Middle East. An order received from 7th. Armd.Div to effect that no more vehicles were to be handed in to R.V.S. This leaves us with 21 vehicles in need of repair which it would be in the best interests of the Division for us to get into Workshops. We have handed in 89 vehicles to date.
22nd.		Verbal orders received for the Regiment, less “J” Battery, to be to move on April 1st.
23rd.		Church parade on the occasion of the National Day of Prayer. Written orders received for the Regiment, that the probably day of departure, less “J” Battery will be April 5th 1941
24th.		Nil.
Beni Yusef 25th.		Meeting of 7th Armd.Div. Technical Officers and Q Representatives to decide on the redistribution of vehicles from the Divisional pool. In actual fact, only 1 K.R.R.C. were catered for at this meeting, as they have first priority.
26th.	0730	Meeting of QMs and Technical Officers at G.H.Q. It was required to move 3rd Regt. RHA and 4th Regt. RHA to CYRENAICA as soon as possible, but the vehicle situation only permitted one battery of 3 RHA (to be “M” Bty) which could be moved in four days. It was arranged that vehicles would be supplied. “C” Bty 4 RHA had only just returned from SIWA, and it was found impossible to supply them with sufficient transport.
27th.		Nil.
28th.		Nil.
29th.		Reconditioned Morris 15.Cwts and 30.Cwts drawn for “M” Battery from MEBA. Movement order for “M” Battery issued. Some miscellaneous Fords drawn for RHQ and “D” Bty.	Appendix v “ vi “ vii
30th.		12 Bofors and 13 reconditioned Portees drawn for “M” Battery from RAOC.
31st.	0745	Departure of “M” Battery to CYRENAICA. They move off according to the new desert scale of vehicles, with the exception that they did not take their motorcycles: the Armoured scout carrier was not available either.	Appendix viii

Beni Yusef. 1-4-41			Captain R.H.A Adjutant 3rd Regiment R.H.A

April 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Beni	April		2/Lt. JENNINGS promoted A/Capt. vice A/Capt. SMITH who proceeded to G.H.Q. Middle East.
Yusef.	1st.

Beni Yf.	April		NIL.
	2nd

Beni Yf.	April		NIL.
	3rd

Beni	April		R.H.Q. prepare to move from BENI YUSEF to Cyrenacia Command.
Yusef.	4th		D Bty prepare to move also,

Beni	April	0730	R.H.Q. and D Bty move to area BAHIG. Lt. WHITBY left behind i/c rear party. D Bty picked up 4 Breda guns at AMARIYA en route,
Yusef.	5th	1100	11th Hussars pass on the way. They were well equipped with new armoured cars.
			2Lt. WATT went forward to arrange drawing of supplied at BAHIG.
BAHIG.	April	1500	R.H.Q. and D Bty bivouacked in area BAHIG on north side of the road. Distance covered 150 miles.
	5th

BAHIG.	April	0730	R.H.Q. and D Bty moved from area BAHIG to position of the aerodrome at MATRUH, where they bivouacked for the night.
	6th		A/Adjt arranged for drawing of supplies through H.Q. MATRUH Fortress. 135 miles covered today.

MATRUH	April	0700	2/Lt. WATT promoted A/Capt. and appointed Adjt in place of Capt. F.B. WYLDBORE-SMITH who proceeded to a Staff course to Middle East Staff School. Haifa/
	7th		R.H.Q. and D Bty moved to MATRUH to BUGBUG. Bivouaced for night. Very windy day. 106 miles covered.

BUQBUQ	April	0700	R.H.Q. and D Bty left BUQBUQ and arrived at a point just West of TOBRUK on the North side of the road. Still very windy.
	8th		9 refugees were passed who had left BENGHASI before Germans occupied it. Move to this position took 4 days steady driving at 25 m.p.h.
			Major J.A. AKROYD HUNT went on today and met Major LEWIN of J Bty outsideTOBRUK. J Bty had bought up the rear of our forces during the last few days, and reported that the enemy were in DERNA last night. They also reported that their casualties hab been 1 det complete with gun, 2 fitters and 3 wounded. They had lost a number of vehicles.
		1700	Col. C.P.B. WILSON decided to give J’s guns to D Bty, and visited J Bty.
			Watches advanced one hour.

TOBRUK	April	0630	Enemy planes raided TOBRUK.
	9th		Lt. Col WILSON went to see Sp Gp at EL ADEM. Major AKROYD HUNT went to see H.Q. Cyrforce.
		1045	TOBRUK raided by 9 planes, of which 3 were brought down, at least one by Bofors light A.A.
		2130	TOBRUK again raided. Bright moonlight.

TOBRUK	April	0815	Colonel and 2 i/c left for a recce of the perimeter defences.
	10th		Adjt went into TOBRUK area H.Q. and received news that M Bty had reached EL ADEM from MECHILI with 9 guns and about 65 personnel. Capt. O’NEILL missing believed P.O.W.
		0930	J Bty came into R.H.Q. bivouac area.
		1200	D Bty went out to join Sp Gp 7 Armd Div at EL ADEM.
		p.m.	Considerable firing to the west.
		1800	M Bty arrived in from EL ADEM.
		1830	Dashing raid by bombers on TOBRUK with escorting Messerschmidts, which straffed our area.
		2100	Air raid on TOBRUK.

TOBRUK	April		Returns 3008 and 3009 sent to Cyrcom and 2nd Echelon today
	11th		M Bty. 44 missing believed P.O.W.
			J Bty. 7 missing believed P.O.W.
			M Bty. 24 vehicles lost on withdrawal from MECHILI, including 4 portees (3 with guns).
			J Bty. 14 vehicles lost, including 5 portees. Only 1 gun missing.
			Col. went to 9 Aust Div. Adjt went to H.Q. Cyrcom and Rear Cyrcom.
		p.m.	A battle all afternoon to the south.
			J Bty drew up 8 guns and 18 lorries from TOBRUK.
		1215	Raid on TOBRUK. 2 Messerschmidts shot down.
			Capt. REDHEAD came on from D Bty for M.T. spare and left at 1230 hrs.
		1430	Capt. REDHEAD returned, not having been able to get out as all traffic was being stopped. It was later discovered that the Germans had got astride the BARDIA road.
			Sp Gp henceforward based at SALUM.
		1700	A Tp M Bty moved to deal with threat from AFVs in PILASTRINO sector.
		1730	A quick raid on TOBRUK, more bombs than usual being dropped.
		2100	A tp M Bty returned. The tanks had not come across the outer ditch, and our cruisers had destroyed 7 of them with a loss of 2.

TOBRUK	April	0015	To deal with a threated enemy dawn attack, M and J Btys were moved into the following positions:-
	12th		A/C tp M Bty. Astride road 40654275, in 20 Aust Bde area.	Reference Map throughout
			B tp M Bty. To EL ADMEN corned 41324265 under command 18 Aust Bde. This Bde also moved to this area at the same time from wadi EL AUDA.	TOBRUK 1:50000
			A/C tp J Bty. To DERNA road at 40854340 under command 26 Aust Bde. 7 guns.
			B tp J Bty. To 40304300 under command 20 Aust Bde. 4 guns.
		0230	R.H.Q. Moved to Acroma road 40934329 to be near Div H.Q.
		1800	B tp M Bty had moved astride road 1 mile south PILASTRINO.
			The field artillery was disposed as follows:-
			1 R.H.A B/O Bty in area PILASTRINO.
			B tp 40454295. O tp 40674294.
			A/E Bty area EL ADEM corner.
			A tp 41124246. E tp 41624260.
			104 R.H.A to S.E. in square 415429.
			107 R.H.A one mile east of PILASTRINO.
			51 Field Regt. RA west DERNA road.
			370 Bty in square 400422.
			302 Bty. 1 tp 405436. 1 tp 406433.

TOBRUK	April	a.m.	Col and 2 i/c visited J Bty positions.
	13th		Enemy infantry reported by M Bty to be repeatedly pushing up behind tanks and trying to dig in, but our arty was stated to be having marked effect.
		1600	In a clearing in the sandstorm B to J Bty opened on some enemy tanks on skyline, but were then subjected to enemy arty fire. After this, the enemy did not press their attack.

TOBRUK	April	a.m.	Enemy made a determined attacked with tanks and infantry in SIDI CHEIRALLA area, post R31.
	14th		B tp of J Bty, who had moved S.E. from their old positions, found themselves surrounded at first light and lost 3 guns, 2 killed and 1 wounded. They claim 8 tanks.
			A/C tp of M Bty had most spirited action against 40 tanks.
			With only 5 guns, they split up into 3 and attacked at 800 to 1000 yds in the open. A tp of R.H.A. also engaged these tanks.
			Major EDEN with his 5 guns worked round to their south and eventually to their east. Later it was observed that 5 tanks were left on the battlefield, presumably accounted for by the Chestnut to and M Bty between them. The enemy tanks, which had been originally well spaced out, collected together into a circle during this action, surrounded by their infantry.
			Later the Australians went in and captured 400 prisoners. The tanks that had not been hit withdrew. Altogether it is estimated that the enemy lost 18 tanks.
			M Bty lost 2 guns destroyed by enemy fire and 2 portees. 2/Lt ROBERTSON was killed and 4 O.Rs. wounded.
			The German attacked was timed to take place when the air raid was in progress. The tanks and infantry had come through the defences at 0400 hrs and had remained quiet until 0800 hrs. They then advanced but were stopped by sub-units of M. J and A/E Btys R.H.A., and collected into a mass. The action of the Aust. Infantry in correctly “ducking” the tank attack and then dealing with the infantry to the tune of 400 prisoners, is praiseworthy.
		0745	An intensive raid on TOBRUK and other targets, including established Cyrcom H.Q. on the MERSA AUDA.
	-	0830	About 30 Junkers dive bombers participated, the cloudy sky being in favour. 8 to 10 were shot down.
		p.m.	J Bty changed round tps so as to keep 4 guns at their southern position.
		1730	Raid on TOBRUK by more Junkers.
			H.Q. Cyrcom moved back to MAATEN BAGUSH at night, leaving Rear Cyrcom here.

TOBRUK	April	a.m.	J Btys position now:-
	15th		C tp with 4 guns 398431 under command 26 Inf Bde.
			A tp with 3 guns SIDI CHEIRALLA area 407423 under command 20 Be.
			B tp with 2 guns 399428 under command 20 bde.
			M Btys positions:-
			B tp at PILASTRINO.
			A/C to, with now only 3 guns, in square 409422, in a wadi on the outer defences 1000 yds W of EL ADEM road.
			News on the wireless that out forces had recaptured SALUM.
		1700	Colonel went off to do a recce with Commander M.
			A/C tp of M Bty were brought back from their forward position to PILASTRINO for night.
			The Colonel sent in a recommendation for D.S.O. for Major EDEN. When the 2nd Armd Div Sp Gp was withdrawing from MECHILI and the head of the column was starting to surrender, he collected a composite force and led them 150 miles to EL ADEM: he was also recommended for his gallant action on 14 April in opposing his 5 guns on portee in the open against a large number of enemy tanks.
			Recommendations for M.M. were also submitted in respect of Bdr. RUBB and Gnr. ATKINS of J Bty for their gallant conduct on the same action of 14 April.
		1930	A concentration of 500 MET, believed to be Italian was reported to the south, and there was a certain amount of enemy arty action. Prisoner reported that another attack, this time infantry, was to be launched from this direction- the same as on 14 April. The only enemy tanks reported were a few at ACROMA and these were stated to be moving N.W. It was noted that the western sector was particularly unfavourable for tank attack.

TOBRUK	April	a.m.	A/C tp of M Bty proceed to occupy ground positions among the infantry manning the inner perimeter in square 410426.
	16th		The threatened attack did not materialise.
			As Australian patrol captured 80 Italians outside the western defences yesterday evening.
			12 Italians gave themselves up on the southern sector.
			800 Italian prisoners obtained by 26 Aust Bde in Western sector.

TOBRUK	April	a.m.	News this morning states that the navy have bombarded the SALUM escarpment and GAZALA aerodrome. Also that 5 supply ships and 3 destroyers were sunk by our navy between Sicily and Tripoli.
	17th		Bty dispositions are the same, except that A/C tp M Bty have moved from 410426 to 410425.
		p.m.	8 tanks supported by infantry entered the wire in the MEDUUAR sector. 5 of these tanks were accounted for.
		1600	A quick raid by 25 dive bombers lasting 3 minutes.
		1730	A second attack was reported to be developing on the MEDUUUAR sector. K reported 8 tanks and infantry collecting.
			Simultaneously tanks were reported moving West along the BARDIA road.

TOBRUK	April	0430	Raid on TOBRUK.
	18th	a.m.	No developments during the night. Our air force bombed enemy concentrations to the east and made them withdraw.
			A certain amount of enemy infantry concentration two miles east of RAD EL MEDUUAR 39794293. They succeed in making the O.P. there of the 51st Field Regt untenable, and inflicted some casualties. They also brought up a bty of 75mm, and J reported that they were keeping the MEDUUAR – PILASTRINO road under fire in the afternoon.
			107 R.H.A. replied to this with their bty at PILASTRINO.
		1800	Two 2 and 4.5 hows manned by 107 R.H.A. were moved up and started shelling the infantry at 3000 yds.
			No enemy air activity today. 8 ‘I’ tanks and 4 60-pdrs. landed at night.

TOBRUK	April	0500	Raid on TOBRUK. Bombs all round the hospital.
	19th		Raid on TOBRUK. 3 plansesshot down, 1 by A.A. fire.
			Enemy shelling along the PILASTRINO – MEDUUAR road.

TOBRUK	April		Quiet day. Rain all morning.
	20th		Successful harassing tactics by our forces at SALUM reported on wireless.

TOBRUK	April		Quiet day.
	21st	p.m.	40/50 tanks and 200 MET reported at EL ADEM.
		1900	Raid by 42 Junkers on TOBRUK.
			A letter to D Bty was sent by Brigadier HARDINE, who had flown over from W.Desert Force. Object – to get communications by wireless.

TOBRUK	April	0640	Raid by 1 coy of 2/48 Bn, supported by 3 “I” tanks and B tp M Bty, destroyed 2 enemy 75mm. batteries and took 4 20mm. A.A. guns in area West of MEDUUAR, and captured 16 officers and 352 O.Rs.
	22nd		Australian casualties 1 killed and 12 wounded. B tp did not get a shoot and provided the rear of the force. Unfortunately they lost a portee complete with witch gun. Bren and ammn on an enemy mine. L/Bdr, MITCHELL and Gnr. WILLANS were wounded.
			Another raid by 2/24 Bn on enemy at 395434 on the west captured 1 officer and 78 O.R s. Italian prisoners and escort were attacked by German fighters as they were being march back to PILASTRINO.
			Fleet bombardment of TRIPOLI.
		1130	Straffing by Messerschmidts round perimeter, and bombing of 2/48 Bn H?Q. near J Bty.

TOBRUK	April	1145	Raid on TOBRUK by 13 planes. 6 shot down, our losses 3, 2 pilots safe. Some damage done to our aircraft personnel and material at EL GOBBI.
	23rd	xxxx	The Australians are carrying out active patrolling most sectors round the perimeter.
		1515	Raid on TOBRUK
		1540	Raid on TOBRUK
		xxxx	It is reported that their aerial photography has been good.
			The ships bombed were those that had been shifted to new positions in the harbour. Those that had not been shifted were generally derelict and were not attacked.
		p.m.	51st Field Regt produced some excellent results with an air shoot on wadi at 39734372, knocking out 10 enemy MT.

TOBRUK	April	0600 -	Two isolated bombing raids on TORBRUK by single planes
	24th	0700
		0730	Several enemy fighters and a recce plane over at great height.
			In an abortive infantry attacked on the MEDUUAR position, backed by arty fire, over 100 Italian prisoners taken by 2/48 Bn.
		p.m.	A and B tps M Bty changed round, and the position of the east of the two tps was moved N.West to 408428.
			Raid on TOBRUK. 3 planes shot down.
		1715	2 recces flights over TOBRUK by enemy plane.

TOBRUK	April		2 successful air shoots today. One on an enemy MT column which destroyed 20 out of 80 vehicles, and another by 107 R.H.A. on a hostile bty at 402422.
	25th	1700	Bombs on mine sweepers in the harbour channel.

TOBRUK	April		Severe khamsin suspended all operations.
	26th		5 enemy aircraft bombed area 4000 yds west of EL ADEM X rds.

TOBRUK	April		Dust storms continue, but from N.W.
	27th	1430	Enemy air raid on ammunition dump on DERNA road.

TOBRUK	April		Movement order prepared in the event of R.H.Q. being ordered to evacuate TOBRUK.
	28th	1100	A Blenheim, containing a L.O. and R.A.F. officers shot down by Messerschmidts.
		1400	W/T contact made with D Bty.
		1730	Big raid on PILASTRINO,
			Informed that R.H.Q. to evacuate TOBRUK on 29th April.
			Vehicles were redistributed between J and M. and most of the surplus ones were earmarked for 1 R.H.A., 51 R.A. and 104 R.H.A.
			Those remaining to go to V.R.D. TOBRUK.
			J Bty are to come under 51 Field Regt R.A. for administration.
			M Bty are to come under 1 R.H.A.

TOBRUK	April	0900	Move cancelled.
	29th	0950	Move on again.
		1400	Colonel left for embarkation point. As O.C. troops on the ship he had to be there before the rest of the party.
		1615	R.H.Q., Signals, L.A.D. and attached 4/R.H.A. left/
		1645	Shortly after arrival at No. 1 jetty TOBRUK. A dive bombing attacked by 25 Heinkels and the ship, a naval supply ship of 3000 tons, was wrecked, her bows resting on the bottom. Fortunately the Colonel, who was on board with 3 O.Rs, as O.C. troops on the ship, was unhurt, and as far as is known there were no casualties.
			The troops were to have embarked at 1430, but it was postponed. All our kit was destroyed, including office stores, 2 No. 11 wireless sets, L.A.D. tools, officers and men’s mess kit, and some of the men’s personal equipment. This had all been loaded on board in the morning from a lighter and weighed approximately 6 or 7 tons. Most of the men still have all their kit, and all their bedding and essentials.
		1700	R.H.Q. returned to bivouac area in R.A.S.C lorries and vehicles loaned by K Bty.
	-	1800	They still had a fair amount of cookhouse gear which was going on board as deck cargo, and Capt. REDHEAD nobly entertained the officers.
		1900	An intensive dive bombing raid on PILASTRINO.

TOBRUK	April	0700	During a straffing raid by 3 Messerschmidts, one received a direct hit from a Breda A.A., and crashed in flames ½ mile away/
	30th	1900	Raid on PILASTRINO
		Night	Great arty activity on both sides.


				Captain R.H.A.
				Adjutant 3rd Regiment. R.H.A.

May 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1		On 1 May.1941, R.H.Q., ‘J’ and ‘M’ Batteries were in TOBRUK, while ‘D’ were in the SALUM area with Support Group.
			R.H.Q. have need out of touch with ‘D’ Bty. all the month, and with ‘J’ and ‘M’ Batteries since 4.May.41.
			For an account of their activities, please refer to copies of their war diaries ^x which will be forwarded,	^X SEE APPENDIX “A” FOR “J” BTY’S. WAR DIARY. “D” & “M”’s WAR DIARY HAVE NOT YET BEEN RECEIVED. Transferred to April Diary
TOBRUK.		0845	Raid on Pilastrino.
		1800	Raid on 107/R.H.A. and B/O Bty. Two men of ‘M’ slightly wounded in this raid, and one 8-cwt. destroyed. These are all large scale raids with anything up to 40 dive-bombers and larger machines as well. The former drop a salvo of one large bomb and three smaller ones at the bottom of the dive.
		a.m.	Enemy Tanks had penetrated into R.32 area at first light and had been engaged by been engaged by B/O Bty. Our ‘I’ tanks were then put in, but did not make contact. On being shelled further by B/O Battery, the enemy tanks, number 29, moved N.W. towards RAS MEDAUDAR between our minefield and the wire, where they joined up with another group of enemy infantry that had penetrated at night.
		1330	Strong East wind and sandstorm arose.
		1530	Counter attack was put in by our forces with ‘I’ tanks advancing from S.E., and infantry from the East.
		1900	Further air raid on our Artillery positions.
		p.m.	Our counter attack reported to have been only partially successful owing to intensity of enemy M.G. fire.
TOBRUK.	2.	1300	Dive bombing raid along gun line and on 60 pounder positions.
		a.m.	Two detachments of ‘J’. came in, those of Sgt. North and Sgt. Kirle. They belonged to ‘C’ Troop and had had to work their way on foot, leaving their guns, but bringing in sights and breech blocks.
TOBRUK.		1200	‘M’ Bty. found a portèe gun belonging to ‘B’ Troop of ‘J’ Bty. and drove it into PILASTRINO with 3 flat tyres and tubes, and RHQ obtained 3 new tyres and the gun and portèe were sent out with a detachment made up from ‘J’ Battery’s rear H.Q.
		1930	Strafing raid along the gun line by five large Messerschmidts.
			Two were shot down.
		Night	Further strafing and bombing at night. The moon was in its first quarter.
		1940	R.H.Q. left for TOBRUK, while the Colonel went on ahead to the Movement Control office. R.H.Q. waited all night: bivouached just outside TOBRUK.
TOBRUK.	3.	0100	Adjutant into M.C. office, and at 0315 learn that the ships were not due to arrive until the following night.
		0600	R.H.Q. returned to old site to wait another day.
		1230	News received that Sgt.Finigan’s detachment had got in, having brought back sight and breech block. All five detachments of the (B) Troop are now safe, and two of the guns. SEE INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY. ^x	^x APPENDICES “B” & “C”
			Of Lieut. HATCH’s troop, one gun and portèe are back in action again, and one detachment is back with its gun destroyed, while troop H.Q. and the right-hand gun have not been seen.
			‘A’ Troop on the South has not been in action.
		2000	Adjutant left to report to M.C. office TOBRUK.
		2015	R.H.Q. moved into same bivouac area outside TOBRUK.
TOBRUK	4.	0300	R.H.Q. left and embarked on H.M.S. ‘Defender’, one of two destroyers arriving with 600 men of 32nd Bn. Australian Infantry.
to			Detachments of xx 6th R.T.R., R.E., and R.A.F. also left TOBRUK on these destroyers.
ALEX.		0430	Moved out into harbour while the second destroyer loaded.
		0500	Moved off. Speed 30 knots for the first two hours. Kept well out of sight of land and had a comfortable and very fast voyage.
		1830	Arrived ALEXANDRIA. Stayed night at Leave & Transit Camp.
ALEX to	5.	1200	R.H.Q. left Alexandria by train.
CAIRO.		1530	Arrived Cairo.
		1630	Arrived Base Depot.
CAIRO.	6.	a.m.	Colonel to M.E. and H.Q. 7th Armoured Division.
			Received news that Captain J. O’Neill had got away from Mechili. and had been made Town Major of SIDI BARRANI.
CAIRO.	7.	a.m.	Colonel went to M.E. and 7th Arm’d. Div. and 7th A/Div. Signals.
CAIRO	8.		Colonel went to H.Q. 7th Armoured Division.
“	9.		Lieut. (QM) Witby and 2/Lieut. Reid joined R.H.Q. from ‘D’ Bty.
“	10.		Sixteen 15-cwt. Trucks drawn from TEL-EL-KEBIR, and one Water Truck and one Office Truck from MENA.
“	11.		N I L.
“	12.		During this period nominal roles of personnel and of N.C.O’s with seniority are being completed as far as possible, but (a) communication with the batteries is slow and precarious; (b) The records at 2nd Echelon do not appear to be altogether accurate.
			As much stationary as possible has been drawn up, but many Army Forms and publications are unobtainable. One typewriter was obtained.
“	13-15		N I L
“	16.		A/Sgt.(AC) Wood. K.K. jointed from G.H.Q. 2nd Echelon, M.E. vice W/Sgt.(AC) Ilsley, C. who was posted to G.H.Q. 2nd Echelon, M.E. for promotions
			W/Sgt. Lawrence also left RHQ for G.H.Q. 2nd Ech.
			2nd Lieutenant Weller-Poley was posted to 107th Regt. R.H.A.
CAIRO to	17.	0730	R.H.Q. left ALMAZA.
EL HAMMAN		1545	Arrived at EL HAMMAN which is 35 miles (approx) west of ALEXANDRIA on the MATRUH ROAD. Have travelled 158 miles.
EL HAMMAN	18.		Colonel went to H.Q., Western Desert Force at BAGUSH.
“	19.		Adjutant and Q.M. went to see 65th A/Tank Regiment, R.A.
			3/R.H.A, to take over 259 and 260 Batteries of this Regiment when it moves forward.
		p.m.	Colonel returned.
“	20.		NIL.
“	21.		Colonel left to visit ‘D’ Battery.
“	22.		Colonel returned, having had engine trouble on SOFAFI Track.
			He had seen T.S.M. McClarren.
			Letter to C.O. from Major EDEN stated that all was well in TOBRUK and that Major-General MORSHEAD, commanding. 9th Australian Division had paid them a visit and had said that they and the other R.H.A. Regiments had been largely responsible for the successful defence of TOBRUK.
	23.		Colonel saw Major-Gen, CREAGH. Who intimated that R.H.Q. would be moving up to join Support Group with a few days.
	24.		Two 8 cwts. Arrived as D/R, Trucks from signal section left at MENA.
	25-27.		N I L.
	28.		Colonel and 2 nd i/c left for Support Group, taking one D.R. Truck.
	29-30.		N I L.
	31.		Letter received from Colonel instructing 2/Lt. Reid to join ‘D’ Battery, and relieve 2/Lieut Blackburn for a week.

In the field				Lieut-Colonel, R.H.A.
1.6.41				Commanding 3rd Regiment. R.H.A.

	3rd REGIMENT R.H.A. INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY N0. 1.				SECRET.
	Appendix “B”
					10 April. 1941

	Ref: Map TOBRUK 1/50,000

It is a fortnight since R.H.Q. and D Bty left BENI YUSEF.

GENERAL. ENEMY. GROUND. The mixed German and Italian force continued their drive eastwards but were compelled to leave a large portion of it to invest TOBRUK. On April 11th it was reported that advanced elements of one of the German armoured divisions were astride the BARDIA road east of TOBRUK. It is believed that one division then pushed on to BARDIA and SALUM. While the other remained with the Italians to watch TOBRUK. Since then he has been testing our defences at various points. Up till April 13th he made repeated attempts to push up infantry behind his tanks and to dig in, but our 25-pdrs inflicted heavy casualties, and one occasion about rush was laid down behind imagery which drove them forward onto my machine guns. On April 14th an attack was launched through the wire south of PILASTRINO. It was accompanied by a raid by 30 Junkers on TOBRUK and was probably intended as a main attack rather than a recce in force. Infantry with A/Tk guns and L.M.Gs. had broken through the wire in the night and had spread out to cover the entry of their tanks. At dawn B tp of “J” Bty found themselves surrounded but fought a very gallant action and accounted for 8 tanks. In particular Bdr. LANE’s detachment did extremely well and were all mentioned in dispatches. Bdr. WILLIAMSON and Gnr. AITCHISON on the other guns were killed but Gnr. ATKINS continued to fire the gun though wounded: finally he abandoned the gun when the ammunition was hit and started exploding , and crawled to safety across the bullet swept ground, gallantly assisted by Bdr. RUDD. At approx 0745 hours the tanks penetrated to a depth of 3 miles where they were engaged by A/C tp of “M” BTY and a tp 1st R.H.A. . “M” Bty out 5 tanks in a very gallant action fought at 800 to 1000 yards from portees in the open, and 1st R.H.A. accounted for a further two tanks. This checked them and enabled the cruisers to get up. In all 18 enemy tanks were destroyed, our casualties being 2 cruisers disabled but the towed away. 2 portees and 1 gun of “M” were destroyed, and 2/Lt ROBINSON was unfortunately killed on one of the portees at 4 O.Rs wounded. The infantry attack failed, and the Australian infantry of 20 Bde correctly “ducking” the tank attack, and then dealt with the enemy infantry. In all 430 prisoners were taken and 100 enemy killed. Our defence system proved entirely successful on this occasion. The A/Tk weapons on the outer posts engaged the enemy both in front and rear after they had passed through, and the reports of the number of tanks that had broken through and their direct were sent back. The forward infantry held their ground, and our A/Tk and field guns were able to engage tanks until our cruisers, which were held in mobile reserve, could get up and complete the action. On the evening of 15th April a concentration of MET was observed to the south, and the prisoners state that an attack was due from the same direction as before. The attack did not materialise. On 17th April enemy tanks penetrated the perimeter in the MEDUUAR area, but were repulsed by our cruisers who accounted for 5 of them. On 18th April enemy infantry and field guns established themselves in the dead ground west of 200 ring 396429, and inflicted some casualties on our O.P. with mortar. The artillery shelled the PILASTRINO road on the 19th. AIR. Raids on TOBRUK were fairly frequent for the first 4 or 5 days by day as well as by night in bright moonlight. Junkers dive bombers were used for daylight raids, and on April 10th and 11th they were escorted by Messerschmidt fighters. All targets were in the TOBRUK area one bomb on an ammunition dump near R.H.Q. on April 14th during the most intensive of the raids, on and hospital and its vicinity has been hit more that once. No material damage caused. OWN TROOPS. Distribution of Australian infantry: 26 Bde on W. 104 R.H.A. on E. 20 Bde on S. 51 R.A. on W. 24 Bde on E. 107 R.H.A. on central sector. 18 Bde in reserve. 1 R.H.A. on central sector. On 14th April 20 Aust Bde captured 400 prisoners. On 14th April 26 Aust Bde captured 80 prisoners on the west. On 14th April 26 Aust Bde captured a further 800 prisoners who more or less gave themselves up. “D” Battery. No news yet from “D” Battery since communication with the Sp Gp was cut off on 11th April. An attempt is being made to get in touch by wireless. “J” Battery. They left BENI YUSEF on 21st March and arrived MERSA BREGA on 29th March. They were attached to Sp Gp 2nd Armd Div. They experienced the full force of the German drive and were dive bombed and machine gunned on numerous occasions. There was no air support from our side. The chief difficulty otherwise was lack of information between units. Major LEWIN’s report attached herewidth for this period. In particular, the action of the tp with Capt. JENNINGS at DEFRNA should be noted. The Bty arrived at TOBRUK on 8th April and bivouaced next R.H.Q. and “D” Battery. They had lost one gun and crew complete and seven men, believed P.O.W. Vehicles destroyed were 5 portees, 5 Morris 8-cwts, 7 Morris 15-cwts, 2 30-cwts. “D” Battery had comeout with only 4 guns, and “J” gave them 7. “D” Battery then went off to join Sp. Gp. 8 2-pdr guns were drawn from TOBRUK on 11th April, together with a miscellaneous collection of vehicles to tow them. On April 12th they moved to the West and took up position astride DERNA Road and astride road running east from PILASTRINO. These positions were shortly changed, A and C tps going South and North of the track running East from PILASTRINO, on the outer defences, and B tp moving S.W. to neighbourhood of post R32, where there were involved in the action on 14th. After this actions GUNN’s tp (A) relieved B tp (HATCH) at this position. B and C tps had a shoot on 17th April when 5 tanks were accounted for. “M” Battery. “M” Battery left BENI YUSEF on 31st March and arrived at DERNA on 4th April. They were immediately ordered to join the Indian Motor Bde at MECHILI. They were then ordered to escort in 2nd Armd Div H.Q. This was done, although some casualties were sustained from an enemy column on the north. On the withdrawal from MECHILI, they did good work in protecting the flanks, but it was impossible to protect the whole length of the column. Major EDEN brought back a composite force to EL ADEM. It is believed that the 2nd Armd. Div. H.Q. and the miscellaneous tps that they were escorting were captured, and that M Bty H.Q. got irretrievably mixed up in this. The arrived in EL ADEM on 10th April and at R.H.Q. that night. They had lost 44 men, missing believed P.O.W., 2 8-cwts, 12 15-cwts, 6 lorries, 1 water truck, 4 portees (3 with guns). 1 signal truck and 2 R.A.S.C. lorries. A and C tpwere formed into a composite tp of 5 guns, and moved out on 12th April to a position astride the PILASTRINO road at 40654275. B tp moved to EL ADEM corner 41324265; they subsequently moved to FORT PILASTRINO as a mobile reserve for 18 Aust Bde. A/C tp had their spirited action on 14th April, after which their three guns, after various moves, settle down on the inner defence line in the BIR SEGERAR area 41024255, in dug in positions. CONCLUSION. It may safely be said that the regiment has played, and is continuing to play, an extremely important part in operations and it is playing it with distinction and great keenness. In the confusion and lack of information attending the withdrawal to TOBRUK, it was difficult for the guns to be used always to the best advantage, but they undoubtedly played an important part in delaying the enemy. The loss of “M” Btys H.Q. was unavoidable in the confusion. The capture of so many first class men was a great blow. “M” and “J” Btys have got down to the job of defending TOBRUK in the right spirit, although ground defence never was such a popular role as that of mobile harassing tactics in the open. “M” are keeping one to in mobile reserved, and “J” keep the three guns that they have on portee on sheels also. The remaining guns have been carefully sighted to give enfilade fire its maximum effect from positions carefully defiladed from the front. The same cannot always be said of someof the A/Tk gun positions of other units, but Lt.Col WILSON is co-ordinating the whole of the A/Tk defences. The action by 5 guns of “M” on 14th April from portee positions in open against a strong force of tanks was extremely dashing and showed great bravery and initiative in the true R.H.A. style, but it may perhaps be questioned whether it was wise policy the then to employ then in the open. They did their job of holding up the tanks until our own cruisers could engage them much better like this, and they were devoured by an overwhelming eagerness to get at the enemy after having been driven back so far, but it might have been more prudent if hull down positions have been taken up first. Any further tanks that come in will meet an equally hot reception.
			(Sgd) K.S. WATT Captain R.H.A. Adjutant 3rd Regiment R.H.A.
Time of signature ………………………….. Method of distribution ………………….
	DISTRIBUTION
Copy No. 1 D Bty		Copy No. 2 J Bty		Copy No. 3 M Bty Copy 7
Copy No. 4 War Diary		Copy No. 5 B.R.A.		Copy No. 6 File War Diary

	3rd REGIMENT R.H.A. INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY N0. 2.		SECRET.
	Appendix “C”
			3 May. 1941

	Ref: Map TOBRUK 1/50,000

GENERAL. The past fortnight has been marked chiefly by artillery actions, this being our strong card in the defence of TOBRUK. The enemy have gradually brought up more artillery and, with the withdrawal of our air force, have greatly increased their air offensive. Several attempts have been made on our outer defences by infantry, and we have carried out a few offensive patrols. Many prisoners, mostly Italian have been taken by us and the balance has been strongly weighted in our favour in all these actions. No full scale attack with tank, planes and infantry was made on our positions until the night of 30 April/1 May, which started the battle still raging now. ENEMY. His forward forces are reported to have advanced into EGYPT at several points from the SALUM escarpment. Sp Gp 7 Armd Div has withdrawn to the line running south from SIDI BARRANI. It is not known what reinforcements he wasable to bring up in the period during which he was waiting at CAPUZZO, and it is through that his AFVS, are still light tanks and armoured cars only, and that reinforcements of personnel are coming by air to DERNA, TMIMI, etc. The forces investing TOBRUK which are mostly Italian, have been strengthen by new German infantry, and by Italian artillery (possible brought back from BARDIA?). The enemy’s air power has grown considerable and full scale raids from as many as 50 dive bombers, with heavier bombers and escorting Messerschmidts, are a daily occurrence. The most frequent target now is the line of artillery round the blue line, which has been so successful against enemy tanks and infantry. His tanks, in the present battle, have been turned back effectively by our artillery fire, chiefly from B/O Bty. OWN TROOPS. No reinforcements have been received other than some “I” tanks, of which we now have 18. The morale of the Australians and, of course, are own artillery units, remains completely 100% in spite of repeated bombing attacks on the slight success of the enemy and establishing a position inside the defences. All ranks seemed thankful to be privileged to have a crack at the real enemy at last . On 22nd April a raid with 3 “I” tanks, one coy of 2/48 bn, and ”B” tp of “M” Bty to bring up the rear carried out a successful raid in area West of MEDUUAR destroying two enemies 75mm batteries and capturing 16 officers and 352 O.RS. Unfortunately “M” lost a porteeand gun destroyed on the old mine - 2 wounded. A few other and smaller raids have been carried out by Australian industry patrols, but we have not taken part at any of them. Several successful a shoots by our field artillery have been done by spotting from a Hurricane. Two large minefields have been laid, while in the MEDUUAR sector to the S.E. of that hill, and the other in the EL ADEM road area. R.H.Q. Have remained in their position near Adv Div. Close touch has been maintained with the batteries, both my visits forward and by reason of the fact that Rear Bty H.Qs. have been adjacent to R.H.Q. The signal section has been working well and for several nights maintained constant watch. The L.A.D. have done some good work both in repairing guns damaged by the 14th April battle and with MT, notably getting “J's” 4 portees repaired. R.H.Q. received a warning order that they would have to leave TOBRUK on the first available boat. All the Q stores that the batteries could take were handed over. Vehicles were allotted to batteries to make up their deficiencies. On 29th April most of the remaining vehicles were taken out of my 1st R.H.A, 51 R.A. and 104 R.H.A., and R.H.Q. stores amounting to approx 6 ton were loaded on to HMS CHAKLA, a naval supply ship. Personal went down to the quay at 1600 hours, but shortly afterwards the ship was sunk by dive bombers and all kit was lost. Fortunately the Colonel and 3 O.Rs. on board weren't hurt. A second attempt was made on the night of 2nd May, but the ships did not arrive. D Bty. On 28th April W/T communication was established between R.H.Q. and “D” Battery. They reported that WHITBY and REID were with them, and that all was well. They indicated that they were in SIDI BARRANI area, with about 140 miles from C.W. on a No. 11 set. Nothing else is known of “D” Bty’s movements. J Bty. Troops are still holding the same positions on the wire – C tp 2 North of ACRONA track, B tp to the south of it, and A tp on the wire due south of PILASTRINO. It was arranged that they would come under 51 Field for administration when R.H.Q. left. M Bty. On 22nd April B tp went out with the raiding force already mentioned, but did not get a shoot. Battle commencing night of 30th April/1st May. The expect enemy push started with a heavy barrage form 75 mm. guns at dusk followed by a tank and infantry attack one MEDUUAR. Our troops were heavily and continuously machine gunned. Sgt. NORTH of ‘J’ who commanded the gun held as mobile reserve by ‘J’ Btys H.Q. states that on the morning of 1st May there were 52 tanks over crest of MEDUUAR. Two took up huuldown positions while the remainder moved S.E. between our minefield and the wire. 4 or 5 of these were knocked out by ‘J’ Bty and the Australians. Visibility was 100 yards or less. They were shelled by B/O Bty then our ‘I’ Tanks went round to head them off, and from the sound of it they appeared to be driven back. Sgt. Kierle, who had the left hand gun of C. Troop to the North of 51st Field O.P. was surrounded by German Infantry, who were walking about all night clearing up the minefields by firing at them with Tommy Guns and M.G.s. He was about to start back to ask permission to withdraw, but the barrage behind was too intense and machine gunning continued. He saw tanks on the skyline but could not fire in the dark. Having taken off the sight and breech block, he crawled back with his detachment between 0200 and 0800 hrs to Bty.H.Q., a distance of 1 mile. At 1830 hrs. on 1.May, the Australians counter attacked with ‘I’ Tanks and succeded in re-capturing some frontier posts to S.E. of MEDUUAR, but they got very heavily machine gunned. Sgt, NORTH’s detachment was ordered back by Capt. JENNINGS, but they could not get the portèe xxxxxxx to start, and the machine gunning would in any case have made it a hazardous operation. It was understood that the Australians would shortly be counter attacking, so they just brought back the sight, The counter attack did not materialise, however, and the portèe and gun are still out. The two right hand guns of ‘C’ Troop returned to their Bn on 1 May, as did also 2/Lieut HARDY and Sgt. Finagin’s detachment later. At the moment of writing (p.m. of 3 May) all C Troop is safe and accounted for except one man. ‘B’ Troop had Bdr. RUDD killed after his gun had hit 6 tanks. His gun was completely smashed by 2 shells, but his detachment got to R.10 by 1100 hrs. 1.May. The portee gun also reached R.10 at the same time. Gnrs. SINNETT, DEANE, and DAVIDSON were slightly wounded and were evacuated by A/E Bty, who had an O.P. nearby. The portèe gun was brought in by ‘M’ Bty. on the morning of 2nd May with its driver. It has three tyres shot to pieces, but R.H.Q. obtained three tyres and tubes and set a detachment up with these from ‘J’ Bty. H.Q. Sgt. CARLY, who had slight head injuries stated that there had been no sign of the right hand gun of this 3 gun Troop, nor of Lt. HATCH and Sgt, PLATT, and there is still no news of them. At present, therefore, there is one gun of this Troop destroyed, one about which nothing is known and one (the portèe) back in action. The casualties in personnel are less that they might well have been. Bdr. RUDD killed, Sgt. BETTSWORTH, Sgt. CARLEY, Gnrs. DUNK, MARRIOTT and SINNETT wounded. L/Bdr TELFORD was more seriously wounded, At the moment there are 3 of these 6 guns in action, but so far as is known only one (Bdr, RUDD) was completely destroyed, and the left hand gun of ‘B’ Troop, together with ‘’ Troop guns if Sgts. NORTH. KIERLE and FINAGIN may be recovered when the counter attack succeeds. ‘A’ Troop of ‘J’ Bty. was not engaged. CONCLUSION. The two batteries of ‘J’ and ‘M’, although at the moment only 7 and 6 guns strong, have made the most of the fleeting opportunities for action which static warfare allows. It is a pity that the peculiar R.H.A. qualities cannot be used at the moment, and it is hoped that it will soon be found possible to withdraw these Batteries in the wake of R.H.Q., refit then and allow them to do the mobil work with 7t h Armoure Div. again for which they are best equipped of any A/Tk unit in the Middle East by training and experience.
		(Signed) K.S. WATT, Captain R.H.A. Adjutant 3rd Regiment R.H.A.
Time of signature ………………………….. Method of distribution ………………….
	Distribution.
Copy No. 1 D.Bty.
“ “ 2 J.Bty.
“ “ 3 M.Bty.
“ “ 4 War Diary
“ “ 5 B.R.A.
“ “ 6 File.

June 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
EL HAMMAN	1.6.41	0745	2/Lt REID left R.H.Q. for Lt.Col. WILSON at Sp Gp and so on to “D” Bty.
		1200	Adjutant saw the A.A. & Q.M.G, Major WEBB and was told that Rear Div was moving forward on 2 June to road junction to Rome and Khalda track. R.H.Q 3/R.H.A. were to come on when they had their vehicles.
		1230	Lt.Col. CAMPBELL R.H.A. called in for lunch on his way back on leave and gave us some much wanted news of the events forward.
		p.m.	Lt. WHITYBY started drawing up vehicles, and handing over 6 of our Ford 15-cwts.
		1730	The signal section arrived and reported all present and correct.
			Lt. WHITBY draw up two wireless sets for use by 3/R.H.A. personnel.
			One L.A.D. lorry and one 8-cwt drawn today.

EL HAMMAN	2.6.41		One 8-cwt drawn today.
		0730	O.M.E. left for CAIRO with store lorry and three 15-cwts to collect stores.
EL HAMMAN	3.6.41	1430	Drew up 2 lorries (instead of 4) and one 15-cwt. No more vehicles available.

EL HAMMAN to	4.6.41	0800	R.H.Q. left EL HAMMAN. Lt. WHITBY went on ahead to liaise Rear Div, and to send off signal to Colonel at Sp Gp to sat that R.H.Q. had arrived with Rear Div.
KHALDA TRACK		1530	R.H.Q. arrived in Rear Div area near junction of Road to Rome and Khalda track. There were met by the Colonel and 2 i/c,
			140 miles,

KHALDA TRACK to	5.6.41	0800	Colonel left for Sp Gp at RABIA.
PICCADILLY		0830	2 i/c and Lt. WHITBY left for MATRUH, and made contact Bty of 102 (NH) A/Tk Regt.
		0830	R.H.Q. left for area PICCADILLY 612341 (BARRANI 1/100,00).
		1630	Arrived in area 612341, near Rear Div.
			2 i/c and Lt. WHITBY did not arrive in R.H.Q. that night.

PICCADILLY	6.6.41	0800	R.H.Q. left Rear Div at PICCADILLY.
To RABIA		1115	R.H.Q. arrived RABIA. Lt. Col. WILSON met them and showed them bivouac area in wadi 577338 next to Sp Gp. He informed them that the NH were not coming under our command.
		1200	Lt.Col. WILSON left to do 2 i/c to desert column.
		p.m.	Received orders from Sp Gp to send out B Ech back to Sp Gp B Ech, situated 4 miles S.E. of RABIA. A provisional re-arrangement of vehicles and personnel was then made by the 2i/c. The R.S.M. took off a party of 6 vehicles and 21 men to Sp Gp Echelon.
			Lt. QM was allotted three vehicles and 9 men to make his H.Q. near Rear Div and to move about between the Batteries, R.H.Q. and the supply points in rear. Adv H.Q. were left with office truck, officers mess, officers cars and 14 men. One signal 8-cwt was retained, while the remaining signal vehicles went with the R.S.M.
		1700	B.S.M EAST of “D” Bty called as did 2/Lt. REID attached to “D” Bty.
			An administrative instruction regarding the rendering of returns a matter which has become more involved and difficult than usual owing to the lack of communication, was made out by R.H.Q, and a copy given to “D” Bty.
		1730	Lt. QM. went to see Capt. O’NEILL at “D” Bty and Rear H.Q.
			“D” Btys dispositions were discovered from Mr. REID to be:-
			“D” Bty less 2 tps. RABIA
			A tp. Kilo 100 on BARRANI – MATRUH rd.
			C tp. S. of SIDI SULEIMAN in DAR EL BRUG area.

RABIA	7.6.41	0930	Lt. QM and his party left for Rear Div.
			A letter was received from Major COWAN (A/C.R.A, 7 Armd Div) saying that 2 A/Tk Btys had been allotted to Sp Gp and one to Div B Echelon, the 3 Btys concerned being D Bty 3/R.H.A, 1 Bty of 12 Australian A/Tk Regt and one bty of 102 (NH) A/Tk Regt.
			As only the first two were to be under our command, and as in Sp Gp Operation Order No. 15 issued this morning, 12 Australian A/TYk Bty has already been positioned, there was some doubt as to whether they were under our command or not. 2 i/c went off to Adv and Rear Div to straighten this out. As the Australians were not yet armed, it appeared better that the should do the work of escorting Div B Echelon, and so be nearer the source of supply for their guns.
	1000 -	1015	3 enemy recce planes flew over.
		1415	2 i/c returned.

RABIA	8.6.41		Adjutant took a W/T set out to Major CONSETT’s column on the HAMRA – KIMEIGAT track, and visited Major WITHERs column near HALFWAY HOUSE on the way. T.S.M. McCLARRON’s tp was with Major CONSETT’s column.
			A tp of “D” Bty moved from Major CHRISTOPHER’s column to 11 H.
			Colonel returned to R.H.Q. from H.Q., Desert Column.

RABIA	9.6.41		B tp of “D” Bty shot and captured a German armoured cat at ABU SHALIF 520253.
			It was established that “C” Bty, 102 (NH) Regt and 12 Australian A/Tk Bty should come under our command.
			Capt HUMPHRIES, R.A.M.C. left to take up duties of M.O. on TOGS column.

RABIA	10.6.41		12 Australian A/Tk Bty were found and place one tp with Major WITHER’s column, one tp with Major CHRISTOPHER’s column, and one tp back woth a sec at H.Q. 2 R.B. and a sec at H.Q. 1. K.R.R.C.
			The NH Bty too up its position, one tp with each of the three echelons Sp Gp, 7 Armd Bde and 4 Armd Bde.
		p.m.	L.A.D. rejoined.

RABIA	11.6.41	am.	The General called at Sp Gp.
		1100	Major COOKSON of NH called at R.H.Q.
		1430	Major ARGENT of 12 Australian A/Tk Bty called at R.H.Q.
		1500	Colonel went to Adv Div to see Major COWAN for drawing of 6 sec. sgts trucks for Australians.
		2100	Major COWAB called at R.H.Q. and stayed night.
RABIA	12.6.41	0900	Colonel left to visit Major CONSETT’s column.
			Adjutant left to take a W/T set out to Major WITHER’s column.
			H.Q. 3/R.H.A. is to take under its wing this latter column; so far this only means supplying it with a W/T set and a breakdown lorry, besides routine attentions paid to the tp of Australians under command.

RABIA	13th	0930	2 i/c left for Major WITHER’s column.
	June	1300	Major STEWARD arrived R.H.Q. back from leave.
			2/Lt. COLT-WILLIAMS came back from leave, and relieved 2/Lt. REID at C tp.
			W/T set given to 2/Lt. COLT-WILLIAMs tp.

RABIA	14th	0100	C tp “D” bty went forward with MEDO column.
	June	a.m.	Hurricanes patrolling RABIA dump.
			2/Lt. REID attached to AJEW as staff officer. Takes signal 30-cwt out with him.
			6 sec sgts trucks were acquired by Major COWAN (A/CRA) for 12 Australian A/Tk Bty, and they arrivedthis morning. As all four columns have to carry 6 days rations and water it is essential that the tp of Australians with AJEW should have sec sgts trucks.
		1100	Sp Gp Operation Order No. 15 issued.
			Dispositions of our A/Tk Tps as follows:-
			A tp “D” Bty with JAXO column (PAUL) under Major CHRISTOPHER u/c 7 Armd Bde. Battle positions to be detailed by 7 Armd Bde.
			B tp “D” Bty with CONSETT column, u/c Sp Gp. Battle position BIR HURUSH 503355, between SIDO OMAR and SHEFERZEN.
			C tp “D” Bty with MEDO (BASSETT) column. Battle position ALAM EL SEIyif 510331, 15 miles S. of CONSETT.
			K tp 12 Australian A/Tk Bty with AJEW (HARRY) column. Battle position GHOT ABU TAMEIMA 515345.
			Functions of these columns to protect the S.W. flank of 4 Armd Bde, 7 Armd Bde and 4 Ind Div. If the tank attack in CAPUZZO area is successful, there are to go on and demonstrate S. TOBRUCH.
			All are carrying 6 days water and rations.
			J tp 12 Australian A/Tk Bty are with 1 K.R.R.C. and will be split into two further columns to be formed under L/Col DE SALIS, once attack is launched and is successful.
			In this initial phase, 1 K.R.R.C. less 2 coys protect RABIA dump. Later two more columns are to be formed by 1 K.R.R.C. and 8 Fd Regt.
			L tp 12 Australian A/Tk Bty. One sec with Adv Sp Gp, one with Rear Sp Gp.
			Northumberland Hussars A/Tk Bty has its three tps with three echelons of Sp Gp, 7 Armd Bde and 4 Armd Bde.
		p.m.	Rear Adv moved up to BIR HABATA.

RABIA	15th	0700	Sp Gp Echelons moved up to area 5 miles west of BIR HABATA.
	June		R.H.Q. came under orders of H.Q., 2 R.B.
		1700	Sitrep from 2 R.B. stating that 7 Armd Bde and JAXO had driven in enemy positions at HAFID, that several E.A. were down, and that 4 Armd Bde had been heard heading for CAPUZZO,
		1900	Adv R.H.Q. left wadi, and joined column made up of H.Q. 2 R.B, H.Q. 3 Lt. A.A., H.Q. 12 Australian A/Tk Bty and H.Q. 3/R.H.A.
		2100	Leaguered for night at SOFAFO S-West and HABATA.

RABIA to	16th	0300	Reveille.
MILIK	June	0430	Left fo ABU MILIK
		0700	Breakfast at KHURASH.
		0845	Arrived ABU MILIK with Sp Gp B Ech.
		1130	Major AKROYD-HUNT went to Adv Sp Gp 5 miles N.W. but returned and decided to keep Adv R.H.Q. with B Ech, as the latter were so far forward.
			No definite news of the fighting further north.
			German recce plane twice over us in morning.

MILIK to	17th	0930	Sp Gp echelon withdrew S.E. to area 551317.
555317	June		Adv Sp Gp with Lt.Col Wilson withdrew S.E. to 555329.

555317	18th	0930	A sqn of cruisers came back through R.H.Q, and later it was learned that 4 Armd Bde and 7 Armd Bde had retired and that Sp Gp columns were again out in contact, and responsible for the front.
	June	1200	To of 102 (NH) left Sp Gp B Ech.
		1900	Raid in Sp Gp B Ech area by 7 M.E.110’s

555317	19th	0830	Major STEWARD arrived with Echelons.
	June	1200	Gnr, DIXON (D Bty) and McKNIGHT (4/R.H.A.) were despatched on a cookery course.
		1300	Major STEWART came to lunch.
			During the day the columns took up new positions as follows:-
			TOGS column under Major CONSETT, with B tp “D” Bty, at ABU HAMDA (534348)
			MEDO column under Major BASSETT, with C tp “D” Bty, as QABURET BARASI (513344).
			JAXO column under Major CHRISTOPHER, with Atp D Bty at FAKMRI (526336).
			AJEW column under Major WITHERS with K tp 12 Australian A/Tk Bty at QARET EL BAKARAT (506345).
			Sp Gp H.Q. with Lt. Col. WILSON moved from 552329 to area NIWADIRET ZAQDIN (542329)
			Remaining 2 tps of 12 Australian A/Tk Bty with H.Q. 1 K.R.R.C. and H.Q. Sp Gp.

555317	20th	0900	Lt. QM. WHITHBY left for MATRUH.
	June		2 i/c left for Sp Gp.
	(cont)		L tp 12 Australian A/Tk Bty arrived to do escort duty to Sp Gp B Ech. They came from 1 K.R.R.C.
			K to are with AGEW and J to with Sp Gp.
			Sp Gp Operation Order No 17 issued. Sp Gp to maintain close close contact and harass on a general line BATTUMA – SHEFERZEN – MADDELENA.
			An additional column being formed in area ALAM BANIT 510317 u/c 11H, to assist in watching the wire in MADDELENA. 102 A/Tk Regt less two tps to serve on this column the remaining two tps to be attached to A and C tps of “D” Bty on the JAXO and MEDO columns for instruction.
			12 Australian A/Tk Bty less on tp to be under command of Divl Ech commander (one tp with Sp Gp B Ech). The remaining tp to remain with AJEQ.

555317	21st		The Colonel visited R.H.Q. and stayed to lunch.
	June
555317	22nd		Capt TAYLOR of C Bty 102 (NH) Regt came to live at R.H.Q. to be with his B Ech.
	June
555317	23rd		Major LEWIN, Capt JENNINGS and 2/Lt. BLACKBURN awarded the M.C.
	June		& Gnr(DM) Colvill the M.M.

555317	24th		Major AKROYD-HUN left to take over command of AJEW column.
	June		Sp Gp O.O. No. 19 received. Sp Gp dividing into Coast Group, Desert Group and Sidi Barrani groups. 3/R.H.A. and attached Btys to remain in Desert Group until 3 R.H.A. and “D” Bty ordered to go to GERAWLA to refit.
		1730	Adjutant visited Lt.Col. WILSON at Sp Gp.

555317	25th		Lt.Col. WILSON visited R.H.Q.
	June		2 portees from A tp “D” Bty came in to L.A.D. for repair and were despatched all right.

555317	26th		Adjt visited JAXO (now MOPA) and sew 2/Lt. BLACKBURN at QARET EL RUWEIBIT 521342. Later visited 2/Lt. COLT-WILLIAMS at QARET EL BARASI 513344, MEDO (now UVEB). Both in good heart.
	June		There had been a raid by 2 M.E.109’s at 513340 on advance elements of UVEB column in the morning, when two F.W.D. towers, one ammn lorry and 3 R.B. trucks were burnt out; no casualties to personnel.
			A tp of 11H. were attacked at Pt. 203 on SULEIMAN – SHEFERZEN track 505351, where they had one killed and two wounded.
			No serious damaged to armoured cars.

555317	27th		Lt.Col WILSON called in for lunch.
	June		Major COOKSON of NH called,

555317	28th		2 tps of 12 Australian A/Tk Bty now with AJEW column under Major AKROYD-HUNT. H.Q. 12 Australian A/Tk Bty with AJEW (now NOVO) and their remaining tp (J) with TOGS (nowTIVO) with B tp “D” Bty.
	June		102 (NH) Bty have one tp each with MOPA and UVEB columns under instruction A and C tps “D” Bty. Their H.Q. at the moment are with their B Ech (next to R.H.Q) and their remaining tp out S.W. in ALAM BANIT area 508318.
		1800	Short C. of E. service for R.H.Q.

555317	29th	a.m.	Adjt to NOVO tp see Major AKROYD-HUNT and 2/LT REID.
	June		Lt.Col WILSON out reconnoitring defensive position west of HABATA and on the escarpment North of this.
			This was consequent upon Desert Group O.O. No. 2 of 29 June, which places two columns forward harassing and two in rear in slightly stronger delaying positions.

555317	30th		NIL.
	June

				Captain R.H.A.
				Adjutant 3rd Regiment. R.H.A.

	3rd REGIMENT R.H.A. INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY N0. 3.		SECRET.
	App “VI”		Copy No..5..
			3 May. 1941

	Ref: Maps SALUM and BARRANI 1/50,000

1. GENERAL. It is greatly to be regretted that the regiment is still so split up. “M” and “J” Batteries are still in TOBRUK and there is little news from them. War diaries have been received from them, but they merely emphasise the fact they are sitting there in a purely defensive role with only six guns each. There has been no major action there since the beginning of May. This regiment likes to think of itself as a “tank hunting” rather than as am “A/Tk defence unit”, and “M” and “J” Batteries are certainly not getting much practise in offensive tactics. There is some consolation in the fact that there are three other R.H.A. regiments in TOBRUK. It is a tribute to their qualities as soldiers that they are accepting their role so readily as one which they have off necessity to play They are doing good work, still tackling it with great determination. “D” Battery had been fortunate in unique chances they had in the frontier or showing what 3/R.H.A. Battery can do. They have had that unique opportunity for which the whole regiment has been waiting since the war began. They have been constantly out in front and constantly on the watch, and they have made the most of their opportunities. 2/Lts. BLACKBURN and COLT-WILLIAMS have been awarded the M.C.., and Gnr. (DM) COVILL the M.M. Difficult for an outsider who is not being with “D” Battery all this time to write a full account of events, but reference should be made to their war diary. A few brief notes are all that can be written here. Since leaving TOBRUK at the beginning of May, R.H.Q. spent a fortnight at ALMAZA re-equipping, and a further 17 days at EL HAMMAN waiting for their vehicle establishment to be completed. They then moved to RABIA, where direct contact wasmade at least with “D” Battery. It was eventually decided that they should also look after, and treat as part of the regiment, “C” Battery of the 102 (NH) Regt and the 12 Australian A/Tk Battery. But R.H.Q. being rather a discount at present owing to the organisation Sp Go into columns, there has not been a great amount that R.H.Q. has been able to do for them except on the Q and L.A.D. sides, For the battle commencing 15 June, R.H.Q. also has to “father “ one of the columns by seeing to any outstanding wants and by loaning them their Breakdown and Signal 300-cwt. 2. INFORMATION - ENEMY. The enemy has been content to play awaiting roll, both at TOBRUK and on the frontier zone. His supply problem must have been very difficult with the R.A.F continually bombing ports and landing grounds in Cyrenaica, and the Navy continually on the watch for his shipping. It has been revealed that he never intended to get as far as he has done, and it is doubtful whether the invasion of Egypt was ever seriously envisaged from the West. The first object of creating a diversion has clearly been attained, and now contains a large forces off BRITISH and Imperial troops in the Western Desert., and TOBRUK which might well have been used with profit elsewhere. The fifth battle of CAPUZZO has shown that this British force is not well enough armed and equipped yet to drive the Germans back, and the Germans, for their part, with their main object achieved, are content to remain where they are investing TOBRUK and preparing strongly fortified positions at HALFAYA and HAFID with their frontline of observation HALFAYA – SULEIMAN - SHERFEZEN. With events moving more quickly in other parts of the world, notably in the heroic 14 days defence of CRETE, then in SYRIA and now in RUSSIA, it is felt that this theatre is rather a back eddy, but the forces out here remain keen and watchful. 3. OWN TROOPS. (a) The intention of our own troops in columns has been:- a. To carry out recce and counter recce b. To delay any advance, inflicting as much damage as possible without getting cut off. c. To harass as opportunity occurs. With the exemption of the period 15-16 June, when the attempt to break through the Germans, or at least to find out their strength, was made by the division as a whole and by 4th (Indian) Division, Sp Gp has continued, it's observation and harassing from the escarpment to MADDALENA and has alone being responsible for this whole area. “D” Battery has had a troop out with each of the three of the columns. The remaining column as a troop of 12 Australian A/Tk Bty. When the NH Bty joined us on 10 June, they were split up between the three Bde B Echelons to gain desert experience. After two of their troops went out to the columns, where they were attached to A and C tps of “D” Battery for instruction. The remaining troop was with a further column u/c 11 H to the S.W. towards MADDALENA. After some changes, 12 Australia A/Tk Bty I now have two troops with one column (under Major ACKROYD-HUNT), and one tp with B tp of “D” Battery on another column. Otherwise, the columns have been composed of detachments of 4/R.H.A., 1 K.R.R.C. or2 R.B. and 1st L.A.A. The policy, now but Armed Bdes will move right back to Siwa Road, is to have two columns forward with a primarily harassing role, one back in one of two prepared semi-defensive locations in HABATA area, and one back resting. (b) R.H.Q. At the beginning of the month R.H.Q. were with Rear Div at EL HAMMAM, waiting to be made up in lorries and 8-cwts. They left on 4 June deficient of two lorries and 2 x 8- cwts, and after two nights on the way at the junction of the Road to Rome and Khalda track and at Piccadilly, arrived at RABIA. Capt. HUMPHRIES R.A.M.C left fir TOGS column on 9 June. 2/Lt. REID returned from “D” Battery on 13 June when relieved by 2/Lt. COLT-WILLIAMS, but he left for AJEW column next day a staff officer. On night 15/16 June R.H.Q. moved up to CARET BU EL KILIK 520331 . On 17 June they moved back with the Sp Gp “B” Echelon to 555317. The Colonel has been with Sp Gp H.Q. area NIWAYDIKET ZAQDIN 542330 (and now with Desert Group H.Q.) but the remainder of R.H.Q have remained at 555317. Major ACKROYD-HUNT assumed command of AJEWW column of 24th June. (c) “D” Battery. “D” Battery have been in many small actions and attempted ambushes, both with the columns and the 11 Hussars - activities which cannot all be mentioned even in their own way diary and which between them have contributed to the constant state of alertness which they have been in. They will well deserve their period of refitting at GERAWLA. The German armoured cars have always shown a healthy respect for our 2-pdrs, and have always retired, some times under cover of a smokescreen, when fired at. They have obviously had orders not to risk any losses, and owing to their speed all attempts to bag one for heavier 8-wheelers have failed. T.S.M. McCLARRON’s tp, however, laid successful ambush on night of 9 June, and hit and towed in a light armoured car at ABU SHALIF, two prisoners being taken. The range here was about 800^x. On the big attack on 15 June, the columns might have been able to make aspect ash colour dash EL ADEM had the Armd Bdes being more success. JAXO and MEDO columns (A and C tps) were both under command 7 Armd Bde after the latter had driven being driven off the HAFID position. C tp with TOGS column had the chance of some long range shooting at SIDI OMAR on the 16th, but they had to withdraw finally when the Germans advances. On the 17th they went forward again, but the columns were forced to withdraw by enemy 75mm tank shelling. The Battery was disappointed at their small part in this 3 day battle. A lot has been learned during the battle which, if not as successful as had been hoped, at least forced enemy to disclose his strength and administered a hard knock. From our point of view, the biggest problem is how to deal with enemy tanks which for a 75mm shell, either from a gun mounted in the tank or from one towed behind. They successively out range or 2-pdrs, and reduce us to reliance on either: - (i) Dashing alright show tactics in the open (ii) Ambushes, Both of which are risky operations in the open desert. In the case of our tanks, they are often tempted to use up my large amount of the ammunition with the 2-pdrs trying to reach the enemy tanks firing at them, leaving themselves with insufficient for the heat of battle. The Germans also used their 5cm 6-pdr A/Tk guns to good effect on HALFID ridge position, where they were lively instrumental in breaking up 7 Armd Bde attack, keeping their own tanks in reserve for the counterattack. They are reported to have lost 13 A/Tk guns. When our own new A/Tk guns of this calibre arrive, is it too much too expect that 3rd R.H.A. will get equipped with them? 4. CONCLUSION. Now that it appears as though the front may have settled down for the summer, it will be a good time for the other A/Tk units to take the field. “D” Battery deserve their period of rest at the sea which they are starting on 5 July. We should like to get “M” and “J” out of TOBRUK at the same time, and re-equip the regiment and bring it up to strength again.
2.7.41		K.S. Watt, Captain R.H.A. Adjutant 3rd Regiment R.H.A.
Time of signature …………………………..
Distribution.
Copy No. 1. “D” Bty R.H.A.
“ “ 2. “J” Bty R.H.A.
“ “ 3. “M” Bty R.H.A.
“ “ 4 B.R.A.. G.H.Q., M.E.
“ “ 5-6. War Diary
“ “ 7. FILE.

July 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
555317	1		ROVO Colum (under Major J.A. Akroyd-Hunt with 2 Australian A/T. Troops) is nowin position in what is known as SOFAFO WEST PASS position area 555335.
			UVEB Col. (‘C’ Tp. ‘D’ Bty.) now occupy the HABATA POSITION area 559325.
			MOPA Col. (‘A’ Tp ‘D’ Bty & one tp. N.H.) are now West of SIDI SULEIMAN-HAMRA track with a line of observation on BIR KHIREIGAT – BARASI – BAKARAT (incl.)
			TIVO Col. (‘B’ tp. ‘D’ Bty. and one tp. Aust. A/T.) remain in present location with line of observation Escarpment – BATTUNA – ALAMARAD (incl).
			The remaining tp. of N.H. remain under command The Royals to the S.W. towards MADDELENA.
			Lieut. (QM) WHITBY away at MATRUH.
	2		Lt. (QM) WHITBY reports that there is no room whatever at GERAWLA or anywhere between MATRUH and BAGUISH. The Colonel decided that R.H.Q. should try and find an area West of RAQM.
			‘D’ Bty. are to come into ‘B’ Echelon leaguer area on evening 4 July 41 and leave with R.H.Q. on morning of 5 July.
		1700	Two bombs dropped on 11th Hussars’ ‘B’ Echelon on one ME.110.
	3.		Lt. (QM) WHITBY left with advance party.
			M.C. awarded to 2/Lt. Blomefield – ‘D’ Bty.
			M.M. awarded to Sgt. Hillier. – ‘M’ Bty.
	4.	1900	‘D’ Bty. came into Desert Group ‘B’ Echelon area. Captain Humphries (R.A.M.C.) rejoined regiment.
	5.	0745	R.H.Q. started back, followed at 0800 by ‘D’ Bty and at 0815 by the L.A.D.
		1715	Arrived coast at 691359, where the advance party was found to have prepared a very comfortable site.
			Capt. J. O’Neill posted to H.Q. Matruh Sub-Area and 2/Lt. Blackburn promoted Capt. vice O’Neill’
691359	6		Colonel visited division in area 698724. Adjutant drew pay at MATRUH.
	7		Colonel went into whole problem of promotions.
	8		Colonel left to go on leave.
	9		BQMS. Lye, Sgt on escort duty for prisoners of war to S.Africa.
	10		8 O.R’s arrived at R.H.Q. from Base Depot, R.A. as reinforcements.
	11		7 portees of ‘D’ Bty, have now been evacuated.
	12		N I L
	13		Captain B.C. Blackburn, MC. returned to ‘D’ Bty. from leave. 2/Lt. Reid rejoined R.H.Q.
	14		Colonel returned from leave. 2/Lt. Shurlock joined ‘D’ Bty from Base Depot, R.A.
	15		Capt. Watt proceeded on leave to Cairo.
	16		NIL.
	17		Major Christopher, Lt (QM) Studleigh, and 2/Lts. Fletcher and Booth (4/R.H.A.) arrived after lunch on recce of their regts. position.
	18		Major Christopher, and 2/Lts. Fletcher and Booth left after lunch having decided to bring 4/R.H.A. West of ‘D’ Bty.
	19		Major Cowan came to lunch on way to Support Group. Padre Henderson held service at 1830 hours for R.H.Q. and ‘D’. Two British destroyers attacked by 2 bombers off shore, about 5 miles out to sea.
	20	a.m.	Colonel proceeded to W.D.F.
	21		Major Shepherd stayed night on way to Cairo.
	22		Colonel left for Cairo on conference. Padre Henderson left.
			Major Rudd-Clarke and Captain Thomas arrived with porters 25-Pdr. for 4/R.H.A. Major J.A. Akroyd-Hunt rejoined R.H.Q. from Desert Group.
691359	23		Capt. watt (Adjutant) returned from leave. 2/Lt. P.C. Dixon joined as reinforcement for ‘D’ Bty.
	24		Major Rudd-Clarke and Capt. Thomas left for 7.Armd.Div.
		1915	Lt-Col. Wilson returned from Cairo. 2/Lieut Colt-Williams returned from leave.
	25	0830	Lt-Col. Vaughan-Hughes called with Major Baldwin, (G.2.RA. W.D.F.)
		0900	Lt-Col. Wilson left for Adv. H.Q. 7.Armd.Div.
	26		2/Lt. Reid and M.O. (Capt. Humphries) proceeded on leave to Cairo.
	27		N I L
	28		N I L
	29		Colonel went to H.Q. Support Group.
	30		Colonel visited Cairo to be present at test of new portées.
			Major Stewart and a portée with gun detachment went to 7.A.Div. on occasion of the visit of the Rt.Hon. Oliver-Lyttleton, Minister of State in the Middle East.
	31		Adjutant to W.D.F.

	3rd R.H.A. OP. IN T. N0. 2.		SECRET.
	Appendix A		Copy …5…
			6 Aug 41.

	Ref: Map 1/100,000 MATRUH AND RAS EL KABATIS sheets. 1/100,000 BIR KHALDA. 1/500,000 MATRUH

INFORMATION. 1. ENEMY. If enemy attempts further advance he will probably advance in three colns. Probable strength and axis of advance as follows:- (a) Coastal Gp. Strength. One German inf regt. One Italian inf regt. 10 lt tanks. 10 med tanks. 41 A/Tk guns. 14 fd guns. A.A. guns and mortars. Axis. SALUM – BUQBUQ – SIDI BARRANI – MATRUH. (b) Escarpment Gp. Strength. 91 lt tanks. ) 68 med tanks. ) 6 fd guns. ) 42 A/Tk guns. ) German. 12 Armd cars. ) A.A. guns and mortars. ) Axis. (i) SOFAFI – ENBA – PICCADILLY – KHALDA – HAMZA -FUKA (ii)THALATA – MELLA – THAMAYIL – KENAYIS – DABA. (c) Desert Gp. Strength. 12 Armd cars. ) 6 fd guns. ) 9 A/Tk guns. ) German. A.A. guns and mortars. ) Axis. MADDELENA – KHAMSA – QATRANI – GELLAZ – BIR KHALDA. (d) Reserve Gp. Strength. 35 lt tanks. ) 55 med tanks. ) 7 fd guns. ) German. 18 A/Tk guns. ) 20 mortars. ) Axis. ENBA – PICCADILLY – SHAIBA – HAMZA. 2. In estimate of strength of the above colns worst possible case has been taken, i.e. that TOBRUK has fallen with very little loss to enemy. 3. Own tps. 1 S.A. Div is preparing to protect right flank of 7 Armd Div. 4. 4 Ind Div are preparing two defended localities in 7 Armd Div area. 5. 7 Armd Div is preparing to operate in area South of MATRUH and East of SIWA Rd. (a) 1 A/Tk Bde between MINOR and MAJOR escarpment. (b) 7 Armd Bde South of MAJOR escarpment. (c) Sp Gp on general line GELLAZ – KHALDA INTENTION. 6. H.Q. 3 R.H.A. and one resting A/Tk Bty less one tp will operate under comd resting Motor Bn in KHALDA area. METHOD. 7. On receipt of code word CASTOR ……… hrs, following moves will tale place at the time ordered. (a) H.Q. 3 R.H.A. and resting A/Tk Bty less one tp move to area 727309. (b) One sec resting A/Tk Bty move to area 720320 and come under comd 1 A/Tk Bde. (c) One to less one sec A/Tk Bty move to area 705305 and come under comd 7 Armd Bde. 8. On receipt of code word POLLUX ------- hrs H.Q. 3 R.H.A. and resting A/Tk Bty less one tp move to area BIR KHALDA at the time ordered and come under comd resting Motor Bn. 9. While resting in GERAWLA area O.C. resting A/Tk Bty will conduct recess of KHALDA – GELLAZ area with officers and N.C.Os in order that they may become familiar with the ground. ADMN. 10. Admn instructions will be issues separately. 11. Reliefs. This order will be handing over by resting A/Tk Bty to its relief. Ack.
		K.S. WATT Captain R.H.A. Adjutant 3rd Regiment R.H.A.

DISTRIBUTION:
Copy No. 1. Resting A/Tk Bty
“ “ 2. Resting A/Tk Bty
“ “ 3. War Diary
“ “ 4. War Diary
“ “ 5. File.

September 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
GERAWLA	1st	1500	Colonel returned from “D” Battery.
	2nd	0700	Colonel, 2 i/c and R.Q.M.S. ledt in advance.
		0800	R.H.Q. left GEAWLA
		1500	R.H.Q. arrived HAMMAM.
	3rd	0740	R.H.Q. Left HAMMAM,
		1500	Arrived ALMAZA, B.D.R.A.
ALMAZA	4th		Settling in at ALMAZA. 1st (Ind) A/Tk Troop with Capt. BURLINGHAM and 2/Lieut. GROVER posted to the regiment.
ALMAZA	5th		Training begins.
ALMAZA	6th		NIL.
ALMAZA	7th	0900	Church Parade.
ALMAZA	8th		NIL.
ALMAZA	9th		2/Lieuts. REID and GROVER promoted Lieut.
ALMAZA	10th		NIL.
	11th		NIL.
	12th		NIL.
	13th		NIL.
	14th		NIL.
ALMAZA	15th		Lieut. REID proceeded on I.O’s course.
ALMAZA	16th		NIL.
	17th		NIL.
	18th		NIL.
ALMAZA	19th	)	Lieut. GROVES took party to MENA to take over and dispose of various stores left by the sudden departure of 149 Regiment to TOBRUK
	20th	)
ALMAZA	21st		2/Lieut. HEWAN arrived from AMRIYA, where advance parties of “J” and “M” had arrived.
ALMAZA	22nd		Message received stating that “D” Bty would arrive ALMAZA on 25 Sept.
			2 i/c/ Capt. BURLINGHAM as the O.M.E. proceeded to AMRIYA.
			It had been learned that “M” and “J” were to take over certain equipment which had been left there by 149 Regiment.
ALMAZA	23rd		Message received from 2 i/c to effect that “M” and “J” Batteries had arrived at AMRIYA.
		0930	C.O. left for AMRIYA.
		1800	C.O. returned. “M” and “J” were expected in on 24 Sept.
ALMAZA	24th	1430	“M” and “J” arrived at ALMAZA.
ALMAZA	25th	)	“M” and “J” settle down in tents and area prepared foe them by R.H.Q.
	26th	)
ALMAZA	27th		2/Lts. DAVIS, BAXTER and HARDY proceeded on leave.
ALMAZA	28th		“D” Battery less one tp arrived ALMAZA. They had handed their portees over to 65 A/Tk Regt.
			Training for the remainder of the regiment began, as far as was possible with the numerous duties.
ALMAZA	29th		Remainder of “D” Battery arrived.
			Various 3/R.H.A. men taken in as reinforcements from B.D.R.A.
ALMAZA	30th		34 15-cwts from TEL EL KEBIR

October 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
			During the period at, 60 new men from draught from England joined this unit on various days.

ALMAZA	1		The re-equipping of the regiment continues apace as it was still on top priority. One week’s leave was granted to all ranks.

ALMAZA	2		Party left for QASSASSIN to hand over vehicles of 149 Regt which had been brought in by 3 Aust A/Tk Regt to 73 Medium Regt. These were in the process of being converted to A/Tk.

ALMAZA	3		Various vehicles drawn up including 13 portees. Six 2-pdrs drawn

ALMAZA	4		)
“	5		) NIL
“	6		)

ALMAZA	7		Lt-Col VAUGHAN-HUGHES lectured on CRETE

ALMAZA	8		2/Lt. COLT-WILLIAMS took a portee and crew to 73 Medium Regt as QASSASSING, and gave them a lectureand demonstration.

ALMAZA	9		NIL

ALMAZA	10		A new W.E. (1/34/1) for an A/Tk Regt was received with the information that it would shortly be promulgated.	App I.

ALMAZA	11		2/Lt. W.H.H. LEWIS joined the Regt and posted to “D” Bty.

ALMAZA	12		NIL

ALMAZA	13		A lectures on R.A.F.

ALMAZA	14		The Colonel forwarded some pertinent observations of the new W.E. to B.R.A.	App II.
			The W.E. had proposed drastic curtailment in personnel, both in tradesman and non-tradesman gunners, which do not cater for the “desert establishment” or take into consideration the extreme dispersal usual in desert operations.

ALMAZA	15		NIL

ALMAZA	16		Authority received for promulgation of new W.E, but in view of its incompatibility with desert warfare, no action was taken.	App. III

ALMAZA	17	0800	Regiment left ALMAZA. Movement Order attached.	App. III
		1600	Arrived AMARIYA.

AMARIYA	18		Move of regiment towards MATRUH cancelled, and C.O. reported to 22 Armd Bde, AMARIYA. C.O. proceeded on to H.Q. 8th Army, returning in evening.

AMARIYA	19	1400	Regt left AMARIYA and proceeded East and South to BIR RIWAG area (474891) 8 miles South of BURG-EL-ARAB. Areas allotted here for various units of 22 Armd Bde during training, but they had not yet arrived.

BIR RIWAQ	20	0900	C.O. called a B.C’s conference and outline type of training intended.
			The new Bde had to get used to desert conditions and to carry on as regards air dispersions, etc.

ALAM	21		2/Lieut. NICHOLL joined the regiment, and posted to “D” Bty.
SHATUT			Regiment moved to ALAM SHALTUT area. Movement Order attached	App. IV
			Administration Instruction No. 1 for 22nd Oct 41 issued.	App. V
ALAM	22		Training begins to settle down. Troops go out on schemes.
SHATUT
ALAM	23		Brigadier SCOTT COBURN called.
SHATUT			Regiment ordered to move again.

ALAM SHATUT	24	0815	“M”Bty and R.H.Q. set out to moved to TALLET EL HIMIRA (520879), but course was altered during march to QARET EL ABD (511478), as previously arranged area had not been reconnoitred and was found to be covered with soft sand hills.
			“J” and “D” Btys, who were out training, came correctly to the new area, and “M” Bty were diverted in time, but many vehicles of R.H.Q. had a difficult time and were out all night.
			Brigadier CAMPBELL stayed the night.
QARET EL ABD	25		Preparations made for field firing at G, KHASHM EL QAOUD (504866.

QARET EL ABD	26		4 lorries departed for CAIRO to draw essential stores and desert equipment still outstanding.

QARET EL ABD	27		Field firing by “D” and “M” Btys. The resultswere not good, but the layers were new and valuable lessons were learnt.
		1300	Brigadier COBURN called and it was agree that regiment should move NORTH into new Bde area.

QARET EL ABD	28		Field firing by “J” Bty. Quite fair results.
			The Colonel of 2 S.G. called in the afternoon.
			Major COWAN, cmdg “C” Bty 4/R.H.A. stayed the night.
			Recent arrivals in the Bde area had been “C” Bty 4/R.H.A., “C” Bty 102 A/Tk Regt (NH), and B coy 1/K.R.R.C.

508892	29	0855	C.O. left for Bde H.Q.
		0900	Regt left, moving North to new Bde area. “J” ad “D” Btysmoved independently carrying out training and convoy schemes.
		1015	R.H.Q. and “M” Bty arrived area West of Pt. 32 (510892).
			Lt.(Q.M.) E.E. JONES joined unit, posted from 28 Field Regt R.A. vice Lt.(Q.M) H.V. WHITBY, posted to G.H.Q. as Staff Captain on his return from S.Africa.
			With Lt. JONES, 14 reinforcements arrived, also 8 temporarily detached personnel, including Sgt. THURSTON, B.Q.M.S. LYE, L/Sgt (Art) JACKSON and L/Sgt Day from South Africa.

508892	30	1430	Lt.General CUNNINGHAM visited C.O.
		1700	B.C’s conference summoned by C.O. to detail further training.

508892	31		Demonstrations by R.E. on forcing an A/Tk minefield attended by C.O., 2 officers and 6 O.Rs.
			22Armd Bde moved of West for a week’s training, leaving 3/R.H.A. 2 S.G. and R.E. behind.

			COPY
SUBJECT:- War Establishment.							SECRET
							3 REGT R.H.A.
B.R.A.			Appendix I				Ref. No. 3/21
G.H.Q., M.E.F.							14 Oct 41.

Reference W.E. of A/Tk Regiment No. 79/WR/3172(SD3).
1. The following observations on the W.E. are forwarded. 2. PERSONNEL. (a) L.M.G. Detachments. On R.H.Q. only 2 gunners are allowed for the 2 Bren guns. It is essential to have 2 gunners per gun. Clerks cannot be expected to do their own work and dig Bren gun pits and man the gun in action as well. Although there are 2 L.M.Gs. on Battery H.Q. no gunners at all are allowed for manning them. An increase of 14 L.M.Gunners per regiment is required (R.H.Q. 2, each Battery 4). (b) Drivers I.C. The total of Drivers I.C. added to the Driver Mechanics allows for one driver per vehicles with none spare. The non-tradesmen gunners have been decreased by 53 in the regiment. Therefore it will not be possible to find drivers for the extra “desert establishmeny vehicles”. The following increased is recommended in vehicles recommended in para 3. Drivers I.C. 21. Desert Establishment 29. Driver Mechanics 6. (see next para). (c) Driver Mechanics and Motor Mechanics. The Driver Mechanics have been reduced by 33% and Motor Mechanics by 55%, although vehicles have been reduced by 19% only. I recommend that Driving Mechanics should be increased from 14 to 21 and Motor Mechs from 4 to 8. The establishment of these two tradesmen should be kept up, as they give the keen driver a chance of earning extra pay. (d) Artificers R.A. and Fitters Gun and M.V.. As troops are usually working detached, they should either be a Motor Mechanic or a Fitter M.V. with each troop and Battery H.Q., i.e. 4 per battery. If an increase to 8 Motor Mechanics per regiment is allowed, then 6 Fitters M.V .are required. Increase from 3 to 6 per regiment. As no Artificers R.A. are allowed in batteries at least 2 Fitters Gun for battery are required in order that they can compete with the work in troops that are normally separated. Increase from 3 to 6 per regiment. (e) Sergeant Cook. Now not allowed. Is he to be de-aproned? If so, who is to supervise the 15 A.C.Cs? (f) Summary of proposed amendments to Establishment. Tradesmen. R.H.Q. Each Bty. Total Regt. Driver Mechanics 2 6 20 Motor Mechanics 2 2 8 Fitters Gun. - 2 6 Fitters M.V. - 2 6 Non-Tradesmen. Sgt. Cook. 1 - 1 L.M.G. Detachments. 4 4 16 Drivers I.C. 10 28 94 (Desert Establishment) 3. VEHICLES. (a) Trucks 8-cwt. I understand that trucks 8-cwet are available again and should be issued for officers instead of cars 2-seater and trucks 15-cwt. Recommend 16. (b) Trucks 15-cwt G.S. Only 1 truck 15-cwt for Section Sgts. per the troop is allowed. Two per troops is essential whatever the regiment is operating. Increase of 2 per battery required provided that 8-cwts are issued for officers in lieu of 15-cwts. 1 truck 15-cwt can be deleted from R.H.Q. if the Adjutant is issued with an 8-cwt. Total increase per regiment 5. (c) Trucks 15-cwt personnel. Trucks G.S. Should be authorised instead, so that all 15-cwts are interchangeable. (d) Lorries 3-ton. It Seems to have been assumed that one 3-ton lorry will carry the load of two 30-cwts. This is a popular fallacy. Batteries are allowed two 3-ton lorries only and are supposed to mix the Cooks with the R.Q.M.S. stores, i.e. rations with paraffin. No transport is allowed for anti-gas stores. Four 3-ton lorries per battery or required. This will allow of batteries running a canteen, which is essential. (e) Cars 4-seater. The Major 2 i/c has to do as much travelling as the C.O. and should therefore have a Utility car instead of car 2-seater. 4. EXTRA VEHICLES FOR DESERT. (a) Trucks 8-cwt. 1 for M.C. already authorised. (f) Trucks 15-cwt. Already authorised. In lieu of M.Cs. R.H.Q 1, each Battery 8. Total 10. Petrol Replenishment. R.H.Q. 1, each Battery 1. Total 4. (g) Lorries 3-ton. In order that vehicles may be loaded to 66% capacity, 2 extra 3-ton per battery are require and 1 for R.H.Q. 5. PROPOSED CHANGE IN ESTABLISH OF VEHICLES.
	R.H.Q			Each Bty.				Total Regt.
	Non-Desert. Desert.			Non-Desert. Desert.				Non-Desert. Desert.
Cars Utility	2	2		-		-		2	2
Trucks 8-cwt	2	3		5		5		17	17
Trucks 15-cwt G.S.	2	4		11		15		35	49
Lorries 3-ton	4	5		4		6		16	23

					(Sgd) C.P.B WILSON. Lt-Col. Cmdg.

COPY
PRESENT ALLOTMENT OF TRANSPORT. DESERT ESTABLISHMENT.

R.H.Q.
Cars 4-seater.		C.O.
8-cwt trucks.	(4)	1 each 2 i/c Adjutant Q.M, M.O.
15-cwt trucks.	(5)	Officers Mess.	1.
		M.O.	1.
		Petrol.	1.
		D.R.	1.
		M.T. Stores Fitters.	1.
			5.

30-cwt or 3-ton lorries	(4)	Q.M. and Gas.	2.
		Cooks.	1.
		R.H.Q. Stores and Canteen.	1.
			4.

BATTERY
8-cwt trucks.	(5)	B.C, Captain, 3 Tp Cmdrs.
15-cwt trucks.	(15)	Officers Mess.	1.
		Petrol.	2.
		Ammunition.	2.
		Distribution of Food.	1.
		Section Sergeants.	6.
		D.R. and Replenishment.	3.
			15.

30-cwt or 3-ton lorries	(6)	Fitters and Tech. Stores.	2.
		‘Q’ Stores.	2.
		Anti-gas.	2.
		Cooks.	1.
			6.

November 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Kilo 152	1		A day of accounts
Alex-Cairo
Rd.	2	0515	Field firing by all 3 batteries on 22 Armd Bde range at EL GAZZAH 502890

“	3		NIL.

“	4	1700	“D” Bty left area, staying night at Kilo 160.

“	5	0800	“D” Bty passed AMARIYA level crossing, followed by 2 Bn Scots Guards at 0900.

“	6		22 Armd Bde returned from scheme.

“	7		C.O. to ALEXANDRIA Movements Control,

“	8	)	NIL.
	9	)

“	10	0900	Lt. REID left to take up appt of I.O. at H.Q. 7 Sp Gp.

Kilo 152 to DABA	11		Regt moved to EL DABA. 3 days rations carried. Road extremely congested.

DABA to GERAWLA	12		Lt GROVER posted to R.H.Q. from “M” Bty. Orders collected from town Major, DABA for next day’s stage. Replenishment of petrol and water.
		1300	Adv party left under 2 i/c.
		1750	Regt left – 3½ hours late owning to traffic congestion.
		2200	Arrived Kilo 24 GERAWLA. Replenished petrol.

GERAWLA to KENAYIS	13	0100	Orders for next stage of move collected from 22 Armd Bde H.Q.
		0500	Moved off.
		1045	Arrived 7 Sp Gp KENAYIS 677514, where “D” Bty joined. “B” Ech was separated and remained of the SIWA track.
			22 Armd Bde proceeded east of SIWA track.
		1500	Capt WIGHAN, I.O. fron 7 Sp Gp gave a talk to 3/R.H.A. officers on the situation.
		1530	Verbal orders issued to Batteries for the move westwards.

KENAYIS to 513292	14	0900	Sp Gp moved of on bearing 270°. R.H.Q. and “J” Battery travelled in main body.
			“M” Battery did rearguard. “D” Battery had one troop each in Adv Guard, right flank guard and left flank guard.
		1425	Sp Gp bivouaced, R.H.Q, being at 613292,

613292 to 544284	15	0800	Column moved off west.
		1100	Guides met units.
		1430	Regt arrived bivouac area 544284.

544284	16	p.m.	Conference of C.Os, 2 i/cs and Adjts at Sp Gp HQ. Detailed ordered give,
			Operation Order,	Appendix “A”
		1400	“M” Bty less one troop joined HUGO column under command 11 H. One of these troops under 2/Lieut. HEWAN subsequently joined 11 H. themselves.

544284	17	0830	Battery Commanders conference. D-1 day.
	(D-1)		Allotment of Batteries for the advance as follows:-
			“D” Bty. 1 tp with Adv Gd. 1 tp with Main Gd. 1 tp Left Flank Gd.
			“J” Bty. 1 tp with Right Flank Gd. q tp in rear of main body. 1 tp with 2 RB.
			“M” Bty. 2 tps with 11 H and HUGO coln. 1 sec with Adv Sp Gp. 1 sec with Rear Sp Gp.
			Sp Gp’s role is to take over defensive position in area GABR SCEDIDA (422350) with object of:-
			(a) Acting as pivot for Armd Bdes. (b) Being prepared to cover by fire approached from N.E, N. and N.W. (c) Taking offensive action with a reserved coln found 2 R.B. with under command one tp “J” Bty.
		Last light	Sp Gp lined up in coln. Parties went forward to make gaps in the wire and to take up covering positions.

544284 to SCEDIDA	18	0600 (D1)	Sp Gp commenced march, crossing wire at B.P. 84. 16 miles on 270°, 50 miles on 328° to area South of G.SCEDIDA.

SCEDIDA	19	a.m.	Moved to GHOT SCEDIDA and too up all round defensive position.
		1700	Battle heard to East in which 4 A.B. were engaged.
		Last light	Close leaguered in coln of route.

SCEDIDA	20	0600	Moved off on 350°.
to 428401		1100	Arrived area Pt 178 (428401), where elements of 7 A.B were joined. Enemy landing ground at SIDI RESEGH with 19 planes had been captured.
to		1300	R.H.Q. moved to wadi 431402 next to Btle H.Q. 7 Sp Gp. Desultory enemy shelling of these northern slopes.
431402			Disposition of “D” and “J” Batteries: “D” Bty and one tp “J” on right flank of position stretching north from the escarpment to blockhouse east of L.G. These were with a Bty 60 Fd Regt R.A. and coy 1 K.R.R.C, and a coy 2 R.B.
			Remaining tp “J” Bty in reserve on left flank with a coy of 1 K.R.R.C.

431402	21	0830	3 Coys 1 K.R.R.C. attacked and captured enemy position N. of L.G, aided by 1 sqn 7 A.B, thereby giving us observation on the Axis road. What later became known as the SIDI RESEGH position was now completed occupied. It was undoubtedly somewhere weakly held, but it was a serious threat to enemy comns, and it was hoped thereby that it would ensure that the enemy would produce his greatest strength in this area. It had been the Army Commander’s intention all along to destroy enemy tanks; to do this, the enemy had to be induced to produce his tanks in a given spot. This was done and they soon appeared. Unfortunately, our tanks had already been heavily engaged in detail and were not available in sufficient numbers. 4 A.B. had had its battle in the east, 76y A.B. in this area and 22 A.B. at BIR EL GUBI on its approachmarch. This fact was appreciated by G.O.C. 7 Armd Div, who spent the night 20/21 at H.Q. 7 Sp Gp, and he went off SWW. at first light to contact 1 S.A. Div who had crossed the wire to our South and had advanced on our S.W. It was intended to bring them in to reinforce 7 Sp Gp with special reference to W.flank.
			Lt-Col WILSON and Lt GRIVER left with G.O.C. After joining 1 S.A. Div, 50 German tanks appeared from the east. These were the tanks that had surprised Sp Gp B Ech. They were engaged by arty fire from Sp Gp and from 1 S.A. Div and altered course slightly, still pursuing the echelon. This and other tank movements in the area, had the effect of making 1 S.A. Div decide to take up a defensive position where they were. They did so for 48 hours. Sp Gp B Echelon was badly split up, but most of it eventually rejoined in area S.A. echelon.
			Some of it drove west into the Italian lines and was captured, and the bulk of our own B Echelon did not rejoin us for some days after being chased by the German counter offensive launched on 25 Nov.
		1000	Strong enemy tank attack from east, supported by arty. A/Tk guns and infantry.
			This was beaten off by 7 A.B. and Sp Gp.
		1300	Second attacked from east. 2/Lt GUNN killed, and 2/Lts DIXON ad COLT-WILLIAMS wounded. The two tps of “J” Bty did magnificent work, but suffered heavily. “A” tp especially (2/Lt GUNN) which had three guns and portees knocked out,
		1630	Fresh enemy attack from east, which was held, 2/Lt KINNERSLEY was killed commanding a sec of “M” Bty in reserve with Battle H.Q. Sp Gp.
		1700	22 Armd Bde arrived, too late to give much assistance. It has come from the GABR SALEH area where it had been ordered to assist 4 A.B. 22 A.B. and 4 A.B. were trailing a colmn of enemy tanks N.W. when they had been ordered to come to SIDI REZEGH at all speed.

431402	22	0730	Sp Gp and remnants of 7.A.B. were again attacked from the east. Major PINNEY cmdg “J” Bty was killed in this action. Enemy coln withdrew and at 1199 hours disappeared N.E.
		1430	It then split up and at 1430 hours attacked the aerodrome position from West and N-West. 22 A.B. were heavily engaged on the aerodrome and the 1 K.R.R.C. position was overrun.
		1600	4 A.B. arrived over the skyline from S.E. and were led into battle by Brig CAMPBELL in a staff car.
		Last light	Enemy in possession of L.G. and had commences shelling the Sp Gp ridge again.
			HUGI coln came in with “A” tp “M” Bty.
			The ridge was now untenable with the enemy shelling from the N ridge, and under cover of a smoke screen SP Gp withdrew 4 miles south to approx 428395, thereby straightening the line with 1 S.A. Div in the west.
			At a conference that evening, it was decided to establish O.Ps on the ridge at first light. 1 S.A. Div, who had put in a 2 coy attack against some Italians on the west but had met the enemy in superior numbers, came in a little towards Sp Gp. The N.Z. Div had also advanced from the frontier and were said to be a few miles to the east.
		Night	H.Q. 4 A.B. was attacked and captured,

	23		Colonel and Lt Grover rejoined R.H.Q.
		0830	H.Q. 7 Sp Gp 1 S.A. B Echelon were suddenly attacked from the east. Brig CAMPBELL rallied a large part of the Sp Gp and elements of 22 A.B, approx. 10 miles south and commenced shelling of the German column, which replied for a time and the withdrew.
			“D” Bty and the two tp of “J” Bty that were part of the force that were cut off om the line of the southern escarpment. (and they were heavily engaged throughout the afternoon). The S.Africans also suffered heavily.
		1600	Brig CAMPBELL’s column moved N.W. and at:
		1630	joined in the battle by shelling the enmy from Pt 193, 432388. “D” Bty and the two tps of “J” Bty were havily engaged in thick of it. Majore STEWARD and two men on his gun were wounded, and were dressed by a M.O. on the spot. The M.O. was captured, however, an the wounded me left. Major STEWART managed to get on a S.A. lorry, and was luckily found by R.H.Q. in leaguer that night. Lt YOUNG, Lt PASS and 2/Lts NICHOL and LEWIS all missing.

	24	0530	Sp Gp withdrew to GABR FATMA, where some re-organising was done. 7 guns of “M” Bty had joined, There were also 3 of “J” and 2 of “D”, all apparently that had got away, although there was still 2/Lt HEWAN’s troop intact with 11H. Capt BLACKBURN rejoined for X (iv) list and Lt BARRINGTON joined the regt.
		1100	Firing heard to S.W. O.Ps were sent out, and two enemy columns were reported approaching. This was the beginning of the German counter offensive. Sp Gp withdrew on a bearing of 110°.
			Orders were then received from 7 A.D. to intercept the column proceeding along the Trigh el Abd. A column under Lt-Col CURRUES went off to 62 FMC at 464343 to protect it.
		Last light	Main body Sp Gp wer near BIR GIBM without having made contact. Capt HUMPHRIES R.A.M.C. was unfortunately wounded by a hurricane, and later died.

464303	25	0	On orders from Divn proceeded to 62 FMC arriving there at 0130 hours on 25 Nov.
			Joined for march by H.Q. 7 A.B. and some tanks and Scots Guards, who were relieving 1 K.R.R.C.
			Enemy reported to be at SHEFERZEN (200 MET and 20 tanks) and to be concentrating at G.SALEH.
			N.Z. Div and 22 Armd Bde were still in the North. 1 S.A. Bde and arty at TAIED-EL-ESSEN 437367. Columns were organised with intention of harassing enemy concentration at GABR SALEH and his supply route. Several German recce units reported to be about withobject of causing confusion among our echelons and L of C.
			They would have undoubtedly have destroyed any FMC we might had had in SHEFERZEN area, but our FMC had been site on our line of march from the South.
			Columns at SHEFERZEN are repeatedly bombed and engaged by DOUGLAS coln.
62 FMC			The order of battle now is:-
464343			13 Corps was attacking in SIDI REZEGH and DUEBAR area with Tobruk garrison coming in from the west.
			22 A.B. is protecting left flank of 13 Corps
			11 H were on west, K.D.G. on north and S.A.A.C. on east.
			4 A.B. was concentrating at BIR BERRANEB 443375.
			7 A.B. had withdrawn to refit.
			7 Sp Gp was at 459341 with columns out under:-
			a) Lt-Col DOUGLAS (2 R.B.) (A tp “M” Bty attd N.E.
			b) Lt-Col Curries (4/R.H.A.) (one to of “J” Bty attached).
			c) Lt.Col MAYFIELD (2 S,G,), (one tp of “J” Bty attached).
			The troop of “M” Bty with Ly-Col DOUGLAS, and the to of “J” Bty have one gun of “D” Bty to complete them to 4 guns each.
			The remainder of “J” and “D” Batteries and one gun of “M” Bty are known to have been destroyed or missing.
			Lt GROVER was given command of 2 S.A. A/Tk guns and 1 gun of “D” in mobile reserve.
			The B Echelons on the regiments with 7 Sp Gp were between Trigh el Abd and Trigh Capuzzo temporarily cut off.
			Personnel/ Copy of today’s A.F.W.3006.	Appendix “B”

GABR FARMET	26		The enemy force in the east, which had withdrawn north to SIDI AZEIZ, reported moving west along Trigh Capuzzo 40 tanks and 1500 MET. 4 A.B. moved N. and 22 A.B. west to engage. 4 A.B. tried to get at the MET while 22 A.B. dealt with tanks; result confused but 22 A.B. claimed 14 tanks.
		1500	Sp Gp moved N. to GABR FARMET.

GABR	27		A number of sub-units have been attached to R.H.Q. 3/R.H.A. There are administered by us and form a reserved coln under Lt-Col WILSON.
FARMET
	28		A coln of 40 tanks and several hundred MET attempted to break out S.W. from GABR EL ARID area 468399. Sp Gp. Battle H.Q. withdrew 8 mile 150° to ABIAD 458354. 22 A.B. and 4 A.B. had a good day.
			1 S.A. Bde was moving N to REZEGH and both our Armd Bdes mail role was to protect this.
			Currie column had a successful shoot against mixed enemy column to the North.
		1600	Sp Gp proceeded back to FARMET. B Echelon rejoined.

	29		Mayfield and Curries columns moved forward N. and N.E. to harass and sweep clear the area south of Trigh Capuzzo, between grid lines 46 and 49. Fighting in the evening, with 22 A.B and 4 A.B. trying to bring the remaining enemy tanks to battle.

	30		Colums continued to harass. 22 A.B. and 4 A.B. amalgamated under 4 A.B.
			One Sp Gp party went as far as main road north of GAMBUT,

			Attached as an appendix, and below, are some observations on operations of the month from an anti-tank gunner’s point of view,	App “C”

			Strength of a dug in position.

			A/Tk guns well sighted and on the ground, even if not dug in, can be extremely deadly. This has been more often demonstrated by the enemy than ourselves, and our tanks are not now inclined to attack such positions. The number of A/Tk guns available at SIDI REZEGH egg was too small to allow of many of them being grounded; Consequently they had to fire from the exposed portee and suffered considerable casualties.

			Co-operation of All Arms.

			The necessity for this was again demonstrated, and it is probable that the new brigade group of all arms will be the outcome.
			Even with their superior close support tank (the MK IV) the Germans never committed themselves to mere tank to tank battle, but in every phase the activities of his tanks, A/Tk guns, field arty and infantry were closely co-ordinated, and the latter 3 arms always gave the closest support to his tanks once contact was made.

			The 2-pdr.

			The 2-pdr is a good gun, but its design is out of date. Both on the ground and on the portee it is too high and conspicuous. If the principle of a 360° traverse could be waived, and M.E A/Tk theory was surely adopted now the principle of the defiladed position with a limited arc of fire, the whole of the mounting of the gun could be taken away and the gun on the lines of the Bofors A/Tk and the German 5-cm could be produced, with sloping shield, split trail, lowered sight and on wheels the whole time, whether on party or on the ground

			General.

			Although the position at SIDI REZEGH was lost, the damage inflicted crippled the enemy considerably, and together with the bold harassing tactics adopted by 7 A.D. immediately afterwards were extremely effective against an enemy never quite at home in warfare between mobile desert columns, induced him to withdraw in the end.



			Captain.
			Adjutant.

COPY		APPENDIX “A”
7 SP GP O.O. NO. 1.		SECRET
Ref Maps: SID1 BARRANI )		Copy No…..
SALUM-TOBRUK) 1/250,000		1 Nov 41


INFORMATION. 1. Enemy. (a) Strengthen locations, as known, are shown at Appendix “B”. In addition, advanced elements of ARIETE Division are now in area BIR EL GUBI, 418375. (b) It will be noted that we have a numerical superiority in tanks over enemy of nearly two to one. 2. Own Tps. (a) Order of battle 7 Sp Gp see Appendix “A”. (b) 13 Corps is operating on the right of 7 Armd Div from the coast to about the wire. In general terms the role of 13 Corps is to northwards and isolate SALUM and BARDIA. (c) 1 SA Div is protecting the West and SW flanks of our L of C. In order to do this 1 SA Div is securing the general area:- EL CUSAC, 432326 – QUERET HASCEMAN (4332) – HATAIA ER RESEM (4330) – Pt. 173, 420314. In addition that Div is reconnoitring within their area of responsibility towards BIR HACHEIM (3638) and MAALA ER RIAH (3831). After D1 they may be required to secure an all round defensive locality in area BIR EL GUBI (4137). (d) Gds Bde is protecting L of C between (incl) LG 128, 543298 and securing the SDs areas at 459341 and and 455326 by 1600 hrs, D1. (e) 7 Armd Div is securing position in the general area:- Pt 196, 450385 – B, UAAR, 472366 – Pt 190, 472357 – GUERET HAMZA 425355 – BIR REGHEM ESC SCERGHI, 422386. Advancing one up, 4 Armd Bde right, 7 Armd Bde centre, 22 Armd Bde left, 7 Sp Gp behind Div Battle H.Q. (f) KDG, 11H and 4 SA Armd C Regt will be west of the wire by 0600 hrs D1 and will report presence or otherwise of enemy in their respective area of operation. KDG on right, 4 SA Armd C Regt centre and 11 H left. First bound – TRIGH EL ABD. Second bound- TRIGH CAPUZZO – track EL ADEM – BIR EL GUBI and thence patrolling westwards toward HACHEIM. (g) 4 Armd Bde Gp is securing general area B UAAR, 472366, - Pt 190. 472356 – GABR TAIES EL ESEM, 465360 – Pt 189, 460368 on D1. Centre line – ALAM EL NEIYAT, 534314 – BP 70. 503316 – Pt 186, 493316 – GABR TAIEB EL ESEM, 465360. (h) 7 Armd Bde is securing general area Pt 196, 450385 – GABR FATMA, 447372, - Graves at 438375 – BIR EL REGEM ESC SCERGHI, 442 on D1. Centre line – as for Div. (i) 22 Armd Bde is securing general area BIR DUEDAT. 452362 – Pt 175, 435354 BU SCIHAN, 433346 – GUERET HAMZA, 425355 on D1. Centre line – Pt 207, 527295 BP 82, 508293, - Pt 178, 486303 – Pt 179, 452331 – BU SCHIAN (j) R.A.F. (i) Fighter sweeps are being arranged on D1 in area 4831 – FORT MADDELENA – 5026 – 4729 from 0900 to 1030 hrs. (ii) 208 Sqn is carrying out Tac/R from first light D1. INTENTION. 3. 7 Sp Gp will take up defensive position in the area GABR SCEDIDA, 442360 on the 7 Armd Div axis, from where they will:- (i) Act as a pivot for the Armd Bdes. (ii) Be prepared to cover by fire, approaches from the NE – N – NW. (iii) By means of a Reserve coln, take offensive action against ant enemy threat from any direction. METHOD. 4. Order of March. (a) Protective Det. One Coy 1/K.R.R.C. One tp 3/R.H.A. Tp 2 Bty 1 Lt AA Regt at present with read HQ will move with Protection Det but will remain in action at BP 84 rejoining Rear HQ when whole coln has passed through wire. (b) Recce Parties. HQ 7 Sp Gp. Comd and Capt Whigham. 3/R.H.A. To incl Comd. 60 Fd Regt RA. Normal recce party. 1/K.R.R.C. To include 2 i/c. (c) 1/K.R.R.C. Coln. (d) Adv HQ 7 Sp Gp incl Protective Dets and A.D.S. (e) 2/R.B. Coln. (f) Amn Pt. (g) Rear HQ & B Ech Gp. Rear HQ 7 Sp Gp and ‘B’ Ech with protective Dets. Rear HQ 3/R.H.A. (rt), 1/K.R.R.C. (centre), 60 Fd Regt RA (left). Rear HQ 2 Bty 1 Lt A.A. (rt). 2/R.B. (centre), Tp 4 Fd Sqn RE (left). 151 Lt Fd Amb. L.R.S. (rt), Rec. Sec. (centre), O.F.P. Left. Carrier Pls will move as ordered by O.C. units. 5. (a) 7 Sp Gp will form up in the above ordered facing West on present centre line by 1800 hrs on D-1. (b) NO moves before 1700 hrs. (c) Location of head of each Coln or Det will be marked on centre line by 1400 hrs on D-1. Adv Reps will report at HQ 7 Sp Gp at this hour for instruction. (a) 6. 7 Sp GP will move without intervals between units and dets until whole coln is clear of frontier wire (head at Pt 177, 485293. On head reaching Pt 177, coln will halt for one hour. Oc. C, 1/K/R/R/C, 2/R.B. and Rear HQ 7 Sp Gp will report at A.C.V. at this halt. 7. Route. Present area due west to BP 84 – Pt 177, 489293 – Pt 174, GABR SCEDIDA, 422360. Route will be marked by Det Pro Sqn, starting West of frontier wire. 8. Time of start 0600 hours. 9. Speed 12 m.i.h. 10. Halts. First halt 0650 hrs for 10 mins. No further halt until head of coln reaches Pt 177, 485293. 11. Cutting of Frontier Wire. (a) 1/K.R.R.C. will be responsible for cutting gaps in the frontier wire on 7 Sp Gp axis . At least è gap 10-15 yds will be cut and cleared. (b) Working party will not approach within 10 miles of the wire before 1630 hrs D 1. (c) Officer 1/K.R.R.C. will report at HQ 11 H and obtain permission to recce ground in area of gap. NOT more than one track will be taken. (d) O.M.E. detail two SCAMMELLS to report to O.C. 1/K.R.R.C. by 1600 hrs D-1 to assist in clearing gaps. 12. In the event of fog move will be carried out as above at 5 m.i.h and closed up for night march. 10 min halt every hour two at 10 to clock hour. ADM. 13. Issued separately. INTERCOM. 14. Signal layout see Appendix “C” attached. 15. Wireless silence, except for sitreps, until first contact, or when broken by control. 16. Signal of the day. (a) Two top for all AFVs. (b) All tanks, NOT Armd cars, are painted with the vertical bands the centre band red, the outer bands white . These bands on each side of the turret, on the outside of the horns of the hull, and on the front plate. 17. CALL SIGNS will seek to change daily and will change as below:- At 0201 hrs LOCAL time D1 to the coln for D1. At 0201 hrs Local time D5 to the coln for D5. At 0201 hrs Local time D9 to the coln for D9 . At 0201 hrs Local time di 13 to the coln for D13. 18. Map Ref Code, Place Names Code and Time Adder. The Map Ref code and time matter will be enforced until Contacts. After contact, the place names code will be substituted for the map ref code and the time adder will be discarded for all formations within the Div. Re introduction of the map ref code and time adder will be signified by elo and will take place as soon as conditions permit. 19. R/T Codes. (a) Corps R/T Code will be used by Div rear links and 4 Armd Bde rear links , if independent (b) This 7 Armd Div R/T code will be used on all sets within the Div. This code and place names code will not be used with references to the enemy. 21. APPOINTMENTS CODE NO. 2 will be used throughout. 22. Snchronisation by BBC time. 23. Div and Bde HQ will have permanent leaguer lights after dark. 24. ACK by secure means. Time signature……1540…. Method of Issue…..L.O…..
	Maj. Bde. Maj.

SUBJECT:- Intelligence – Observations on Operations		APPENDIX “C”
		SECRET
		3 R.H.A.
H.Q.,		Ref. No. S/??????
7 Sp Gp.		1 Feb 42

1. The following observations, which are the result of experience gained with the 2-pdr A/Tk guns in the recent operations in the Western Desert, and forward. 2. Effect on German Tanks. Both Mk. III and IV tanks were penetrated in front and stopped at ranges yp to 500 yds. The sides were penetrated up to 800 yards. This is confirmed by trials which were carried out in Tobruk last summer with captured German tanks. 3. Opening Range. (a) When the guns are dug in fire should not be opened at a longer range that 800 yards, and then only when the tank presents its sides as a target. When tanks are coming straight towards the gun, fire should be held until the range is 500 yards. It should be the aim to kill a tank with each round, therefore the opening range should be a short as the tactical situation permits. If a few tanks only are attacking they can be allowed to approach to within about 300 yards before far is open. If several tanks are attacking fire must be opened earlier so that the A/Tk gun is not overrun before it has time to stop them. As soon as a gun opens fire it is liable to be spotted by the enemy and neutralised by shellfire. (b) When firing from the portee at tanks the automation may be increased to 1000 yards. The gun has a mobile role and the intention is usually to cover other troops without becoming pinned down by slowing down the rate of advance of the enemy tanks or by making them change the direction of their advance. This object may be achieved by scaring hits which do not necessary kill the tank but damage it. 4. Dug in or Portee. (a) When the Intention is to hold the position permanently or until released by other troops that gun should always be off the portee and dug in. Short range the presents too large and vulnerable a target to the enemy tanks. It is not practical position to move guns from one part of the defence position to another doing action. At Sidi Rezegh a large proportion of guns had to be kept mobile on their portee because there would not have been enough A/Tk guns to cover the position that had to be held had they all been dug in. To hold a defensive position in the desert with no A/Tk obstacle the allotment should be one gun to every 200 yards of the front to be helped. This will allow of 1/3 of the guns being sited in depth. (b) The portee position is often more often used then the dug in position with the 80 care guns or armoured dear. The role is more offensive, harassing or delaying than more static defence. Besides tanks, armoured cars, lorries and A/Tk guns were engaged. Portee A/Tk guns were used for protection of the 25-pdrs O.Ps. both when stationary and when advancing and withdrawing. It was found that a 25-pdr O.P. supported by a section of 2-pdrs and a section of carriers was able to deal with small parties of energy during the advance of a column so that the rate of advance was not slowed down by having to bring 25-pdrs into action to deal with them. 2-pdr portees Will used in support of armoured cars and proved very useful. One troop “D” Battery R.H.A. was put under command of a sqn Royals for the raid on Benina raid. One got of this troop with its first round at 1500 yards knocked out a German A/Tk gun which was defending the narrow track down this escarpment to Benina and cleared the way for the armoured car to get down this escarpment. In order to carry out this role effectively must be very mobile and able to engage effectively and with the least possible delay targets which present themselves. There is there is therefore not time to get the gun off the portee and bring it into action on the ground. For targets of this sort 1500 yards is a suitable operating range. 5. Equipment. (a) Wireless. An A/Tk Battery of Armd Div should have 4 No. 11 or preferably No. 9 sets, There are required or the tactical control of the troops. When working with mobile columns it is essential for the column commander to have direct communication with the A/Tk guns so that he can quickly alter the disposition of the guns so as to meet a threat by tanks. When engaging a large German column at Antelat on 22.12.41 it was unnecessary to move a troop from one flank of the column to the other. The only means ascending orders was by L.O. This method is too slow. It is often necessary to send a troop of guns on the independent mission to harass enemy transport. Once it has been dispatched there is no means of obtaining information from it or of sending fresh orders to it. Wireless would make this possible. (b) Chev 3-ton portees. (i) The steering column brakes at the point where holes are drilled for the earth current of the horn. This needs strengthening. (ii) When the portee is fully loaded the acceleration of the engine is too slow. A vehicle with better acceleration is needed. (iii) All portees should be fitted with run flat tyres. It is impracticable to try and change a wheel when fighting a delaying action against tanks. (iv) Firestone outer covers do not stand up to the rough going of the desert. (v) The present position of the ammunition boxes under the portees unsatisfactory. To replenish, the gunner has to leave the protection the shield and get off the portee onto the ground. While doing so he is very liable to become a casualty particularly when the portee is under M.G. fire. Fittings should be provided under the rear seat of the portee to take some ammunition boxes and a well be used be constructed in the portee between the rear seat on the gun shield the remainder. (vi) Protective armour is needed for the petrol tank which is too easily set on fire by shell splinters. (c) 2-pdr gun. (i) The bolt and spring of the gun wheel clamp on the portee is too weak and needs strengthening. (ii) The shield should be sloped and a double shield provided similar to that on the German 5 cm gun. The present shield is not proof against A.P. M.G. bullets. (iii) The sight should be lowered. In its present position the layer gets very little protection from the shield. (iv) 360° traverse is not necessary. By limiting diverse to 90 degrees it should be possible to lighten the weight of the gun. (v) The gun went reversed from right to left moves in jerks owing to the weight of the No, 3 on the seat. This handicaps the layer and should be rectified. (vi) 50% of the definition should be HE for use against lightly armoured A.F.Vs, transport and A/Tk guns. This has been put up before. 6. Camouflage Paint . The bright yellow paint which vehicles are painted at present is the most conspicuous from the ground. Most effective camouflage is yellow paint sanded over unevenly, the sane being thrown on while the paint is still wet. 7. Practise ammunition. The allotment of practise ammunition should be increased to 40 r.p.g. per month. All gun members should be layers and a larger allotment is needed to keep their hands and eyes in. 8. Armoured Portee. Is it strong lamented recommended that the A/Tk guns of Armd Div should be carried in an armoured portee. The portee in use at present advice very little protection for the detachment when an action he set on fire by shell splinters. A vehicle similar to the Marmon Harrington armoured O.P. would protect the detachment and ammunition from shell splinters and small arms fire and would be sufficiently mobile. It should be so constructed that the gun can easily and quickly get in and out of it. It is recommended that a Marmon Harrington armoured car without a turret should be fitted up and tried out.
	Lt-Col. Cmdg.
Copy to B.R.A., G.H.Q., M.E.F.

Home	1939	1940	1942
1943	1944	1945	1946

1 – 12	H.Q. 4 Armd Bde.	57 – 58	Adv Div Sigs.
12 – 24	H.Q. 7 Armd Bde.	59 – 60	Rear Div Sigs.
25 - 36	H.Q. Sup Gp.	61 – 72	C.R.A.S.C.
37	1 K.D.G	73	MED Adv Div.
38	3 H.	74	MED Rear Div.
39	3/106 Bty R.H.A.	75 – 76	ORD.
40	4/106 Bty R.H.A.	77 – 83	PRO.
41	Tp 2 Fd Sqn R.E.	84	CAMP.
42	1 French Inf Marine.	85 – 88	Div Reinf Camp.
43	1 Lt. A.A. Bty.	87 – 88	War Diary.
44	155 Lt A.A. Bty.	89	File.
45	7 Armd Div W/Shops.	90 – 91	1 Aust Corps.
46-47	Div H.Q. Sgn.	92 – 93	6 Aust Div.
48	Comd.	94 – 95	CYRCOM.
49 – 50	“G”.	96	Tobruch Sub Area.
51 – 52	“A/Q”.	97	Matruh Sub Area.
52 – 54	C.R.A.	98	Alexandria Sub Area.
55 – 56	C.R.E.	99 – 100	Mena Sub Area.

APPENDIX “A”		Movement programme

Serial (a)	Date (b)	7 Armd Bde Gp. (c)	Sup Gp Gp. (d)	4 Armd Bde Gp. (d)	Remarks. (f)

1	20 Feb 41.	Leave concentration Area Bivouac Area T 23.	-	-
2	21 Feb 41.	Leave Area T 23. Bivouac Area U 18.	As for Serial 1 (c)	-
3	22 Feb 41.	Leave Area U 18. Bivouac Area TOBRUCH.	“ 2 (c)	As for Serial 1 (c)	(i) If maintenance halt of 1 day at MATRUH is ordered, the timings from Serial 6 inclusive will all be one day later.
4	23 Feb 41.	Leave TOBRUCH Bivouac Area BUQ BUQ	Arrive T. Stay at T “ 3 (c)	“ 2 (c)
5	24 Feb 41.	Leave BUQ BUQ. Bivouac Area MATRUH	Stay Tobruk. Arrive B.B. “ 4 (c)	“ 3 (c)	(ii) Formation representatives will report to H.Q. L of C Sub Area for instructions as to bivouac areas in sufficient time to make necessary arrangements.
6	25 Feb 41.	Leave MATRUH. Bivouac Area EL IMAYID 442903.	Leave Tobruk. “ 5 (c) arrive B.B.	“ 4 (c)
7	26 Feb 41.	Leave EL IMAYID Arrive MENA	leave B.B.. “ 6 (c) arrive M.	“ 5 (c)
8	27 Feb 41.	-	leave M.. “ 7 (c) arrive IMAYID.	“ 6 (c)
9	28 Feb 41.		leave IMAYID arrive MENA.	“ 7 (c)

WAR DIARY APPENDIX I
Subject:- CONFERENCE – P Battery R.H.A.

To:-		SECRET
O.C. P Battery R.H.A.
Lieut and QM.
M.T. Officer
O.M.E.		Ref: 2/15

There will be a conference in the Adjutant’s office at 9,00 am on Saturday to decide on the dispersal of vehicles and equipment at on charge to P Battery R.H.A. O.C. P Battery will detail a Q representative to attend



Beni Yusef. 7-3-41.	Captain R.H.A Adjutant 3rd Regiment R.H.A

WAR DIARY APPENDIX II

SUBJECT:- Disbandment of “P” Battery.		SECRET


Officer Commanding, “D” Battery R.H.A. “M” Battery R.H.A. “P” Battery R.H.A. Lieut. Q.M. Officer i/c M.T. O.M.E

The following is the programme for the disbandment of “P” Battery R.H.A.:

Vehicles for Workshops:	7 portees
	4 x 15 cwt.
	1 x 8 cwt.

This leaves for distribution amongst the remainder of the regiment:
	2 x 15 cwt.
	1Water Cart.
	2 Chevrolet 1 ton lorries

These will be distributed as follows:
	“D” Battery	3 x 15 cwt.
	“M” Battery	1 Water cart, 1 Chevrolet 1 ton lorry
	R.H.Q.	1 Chevrolet 1 ton lorry

Vehicle equipment will be taken off vehicles for workshops, and vehicles for the Batteries will be made up as far as possible and handed over under arrangements made by Officer i/c/ M.T. on Tuesday, 11th March at 0900 hrs. Vehicles for the workshops will be handed in under arrangements made by O.M.E and Officer i/c M.T. Equipment will be taken in by sections as per G.1098 starting 0900 hours Tuesday, March 11^th. All equipment taken from “P” Battery will be stored under arrangements made by Q.M.

Guns 2-pdr. To get left on the gun park. List of posting of personnelwill be made by Sunday, 1900 hours.

Office Correspondence. Will be classified as essential and non-essential. The former will be boxes and stored in the Citadel, the latter destroyed. The current correspondence will be handed over to R.H.Q. Funds. “P” Battery R.H.A. Funds account will be closed and taken over R.H.Q. who will keep it in a Suspense Account until orders for disposal are received. The vehicles of “B” troop “P” Battery will be inspected by O.M.E. day after arrival and disposed of under arrangements to be made by O.M.E. and Officer i/c M.T. If available, equipment of “B” troop will be handed over to Q.M. at the same time as that of the rest of the Battery.


Beni Yusef. 8-3-41.	Captain R.H.A Adjutant 3rd Regiment R.H.A.

WAR DIARY APPENDIX VIII

		VEHICLES
NEW DESERT SCALE FOR A/TK REGT.

Detail	RHQ		3Btys (each)	Total

Motorcycles	2		2	8
Car utility	1		-	1
Truck 8cwt	4		5	19
Truck 15cwt	5		15	50
Truck 15cwt Water tank 230 galls	1		1	4
Lorries 30cwt	4		6	22
Portées	-		13	39
Armd Scout Carrier	1		1	4

August 1941 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col. C.P.B. WILSON R.H.A.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1st		Colonel returned from Cairo.
	2nd		1/Lt REID and Capt. HUMPHRIES returned from leave.
GERAWLA	3rd		R.H.Q. and “D” Battery moved to GERAWLA
GERAWLA	4th		NIL.
GERAWLA	5th		Adjt to Division and recce south.
			“D” Battery officers and N.C.Os recce KHALDA area.
			Major AKROYD-HUNT returned from leave.
GERAWLA	6th		Lt. HAMMERTON returned from leave
			3rd R.H.A. Op. Inst. No. 2 issued.	Appendix “A”
GERAWLA	7th		Major STEWQRD proceeded on leave.
			Officers and N.C.Os. of R.H.Q. and “D” Bty attended a demonstration by tanks and R.E. south of Advance Div.
GERAWLA	8th		NIL
GERAWLA	9th		NIL
GERAWLA	10th		Major COWAN stayed the night,
GERAWLA	11th		Captain HENDERSON visited R.H.Q.
GERAWLA	13th		NIL
GERAWLA	13th		NIL
GERAWLA	14th		2 i/c and Adjt to 7 Armoured Bde TEWT.
GERAWLA	15th	1000	Visit from Major-General CREAGH.
GERAWLA	16th		NIL
GERAWLA	17th		NIL
GERAWLA	18th	)	Colonel and Adjt went on a recce of KHALDA – GELLAZ area
GERAWLA	19th	)	With Rifle Bde.
GERAWLA	20th		NIL
GERAWLA	21st		“D” Bty left for Sp. Gp.
GERAWLA	22nd		Advance party 12th Australian A/Tk Bty arrived
GERAWLA	23rd	to	NIL
	27th.
GERAWLA	28th		Colonel attended TEWT held by 1 Army Tank Bde,
GERAWLA	29th		NIL
GERAWLA	30th		Colonel left to visit “D” Bty.
GERAWLA	31st		Order received for R.H.Q. to move back to ALMAZA on 2 Sept.

	SECRET
ORDER OF BATTLE 7 SP GP.	Appendix “A” tp 7 Sp Gp.
(As of 1800 hrs 17 Nov 41)	O.O. No. 1 dated 16 Nov 41.

(This cancels Appdx “A” to 7 Sp Gp O.O. No. 35).

1. Under Comd 7 Armd Bde. “D” Bty, 102 (NH) R.H.A. less one tp (One tp suballotted to 4 S.A. Armd Car Regt. “A” Coy, 2/R.B. 2. Under Comd 22 Armd Bde. One tp “D” Bty, 102 (NH) R.H.A. “B” Coy 1/K.R.R.C. 3. Under Comd 11 H. Comd. Major the Visct GARMOYLE. “M” Bty 3 R.H.A. less on tp (Includes one tp with 11 H). 203 Bty, 51 Fd Regt. R.A. One tp 3 Bty. 1 Lt A.A. Regt R.A. “B” Coy, 2/R.B. Det 4 Fd Sqn, R.E. Det 151 Lt Fd Amb. (This coln may rejoin 7 Sp Gp at any moment and will come under comd 2.R.B.). 4. 1/K.R.R.C. Coln. Comd. Lt-Col S.F.C. De SALIS, D.S.C., 1/K.R.R.C.. “M” Bty 3 R.H.A. less on tp (Includes one tp with 11 H). 3/R.H.A. less one Bty and one Tp. 60 Fd Regt R.A. less one Bty plus one tp. One tp 2 Bty, 1 Lt A.A. Regt. R.A. 1/K.R.R.C. less one coy. Det 4 Fd Sqn R.E. 5. 2/R.B. Coln (Reserve). Comd. Lt-Col A.S.G. DOUGLAS, O.B.E., 2/R.B. One tp “J” Bty 3/R.H.A. One Bty, 60 Fd Regt R.A. less one tp. Once tp 2 Bty, 1 Lt A.A. Regt R.A. Once coy 2/R.B. 6. Adv H.Q. 7 Sp Gp. One sec, “M” Bty 3/R.H.A. One tp, 2 Bty, 1 Lt A.A. Regt R.A. One pl, 2/R.B. Once sec, 151 Lt Fd Amb. 7. Rear H.Q. and “B” Ech Gp. Rear H.Q. 7 Sp Gp. One sec, “M” Bty 3/R.H.A. One tp 4 Fd Sqn R.E. less two Dets. One coy 2/R.B. less one Pl. 2 Bty, 1 Lt A.A. Regt R.A. less three tps. 151 Lt Fd Amb less one sec and one det. “B” Ech incl Rear H.Q. all units. 7 Sp Gp L.R.S. O.F.P. and Rec Sec. 8. Amn Pt. Comd 2/Lt, HAIG (Attd 60 Fd Regt R.A.). W/T set and R.A.S.C. Amn vehicles.