War Diary of 414 Battery, (Essex Yeomanry) Royal Horse Artillery 1942

War Diaries of 414 Battery, 104th Regt, Royal Horse Artillery (Essex Yeomanry)

1942

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January 1942

Missing

February 1942 Commanding Officer: Major B.de J. PEREIRA.
Hour. Date, Place	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
1	The ship reached ADEN at 1300 hrs and left again at 1800 hrs. There ws no opportunity to go ashore and it is to be hoped that we get more time at COLOMBO. There is to be a tug-o-war competition and the Bty is entering two teams. There is also a boxing competition for which a number of men is the Bty have entered.
2	A conference was held Ly-Col Chute with all Os.C init on board to decide future policy and to attempt to formulate plans for like future operations. It was only possible to discuss the matter in general terms as our destination is still unknown and the nature of the country we are likely to fight over is still a matter of speculation. It was decided later alia to give a series of lectures setting out the work of the various units comprising the Bde Gp. All the men in the Bty remain very fit and there are only two cases of sickness.
3	All officers and ncos in the Bty were incoulated today and a certain number vaccinated. The NCO i/c Sigs reports that the men in the new draft comprised a number of good signallers who were showing rapid improvement under the daily tuition. The weather is much cooler and the men seem to have settled down to conditions on board very well.
4	The two Tps have been allocated to their own Regts in order that close liaison may occur at the earliest opportunity. "D" Tp to 7 H and "E" Tp to the 2 R Tanks. A number of discussions have taken place between the Bty Comd and Major Molynieux, OC 65 Coy RASC, on board, in regard to ammunitions supply. As a result the latter has promised to allocate 4 additional 3 tonners for ammunition for use of the Bty. This is a substantial concession and ought to ensure a continuous supply under all conditions.
5	The Bty Comd gave a lecture on the 25 pdr and the work of a 25 pde Bty, to all offiers on board above the rank of Captaiin. Signalling classes are held every day and continue to prove very beneficial,
6	The Bty Comd of A Tk Bty gave a lecture on the work of his Bty and this was attended by all officers of this Bty. The first heats of the Tug-o-war were pulled in the afternoon and both Bty teams were successful, there success being due in large measure to a good training by SgtMajor Mansfield.
7	Lt-Col Fosdick CO 7 H gave a lecture on the M3 Tank which was attended by all officers in the Bty. The weather is cooler and more invigortating after the great heat of the RED SEA. The healt of the Bty continues to be very good with only three cases of sickness.
8	Divine Service was held in the saloon after breakfast and was well attended.
9	The ship arrived outside COLOMBO at 10 hrs and anchored in the inspection anchorage, She went into the harbour in the afternoon about 1500 hrs, It was decided after consultation with the Embarkation authorities, to grant shore leave, starting at 0800 hrs the next morning.
10	The men went ashore in tenders, leave being granted until 1700 hrs for the men and 0700 hrs for W.Os and Sgts. The men were all paid out in rupees to go ashore after two weeks on board ship. Various arrangements were made fior the enjoyment of the men while ashore,
11	Leave was again granted, this time until 2200 hrs for the men and 0100 hrs for WO's and Sgts. Several officers decided to sleep ashore.
12	Leave was again granted, the ,men being told to be back on the ship by 1800 hrs, They were paid out again in rupees on the landings stage.
13	No shore leave was allowed today although it is unlikely that the ship will leave today. The M.T. Shops have all arived and Kt Hitchcock and sancoz both report that all their men are well and that they had a vert comfortable voyage up-to-date,
14	The ship in company with the four M.T. ships and an escort of one 8" gun cruiser (HMS Cornwall), one destroyer (Nizan claes), one corvette and one slop[ left COLOMBO at 1600 hrs and set a course to the WEST. During the night the course was changed and our final desitination has now been announce as RANGOON.
15	In the evening the ship was still in sight of land)theEAST coast of CEYLON) and our course was now N,E, Divine Service was held in the saloon at 1000 hrs, Lectures, P,T, and other training is to be resumed tomorrow.
16	Lt-Chute have a lectures on the work of an Armoured Bde Gp and attempted to anticipate so far as possible, the conditions likely to me met in BURMA. Both Tug-o-war teams were successful in their heats. Signal training continues.
17	Lt-Col Dalziel RAMC gave a lectures on BURMA, speaking from the experience of two years' residence in the country. It was quite clear that conditions are going to be difficult after April, when the S.W monsoon breaks and the coastal belt becomes flooded. The Bty Tug-o-war teams has to pull against each other in the morning - "A" team winning and getting into the semi-final. This is an excellent result as we are one of the smaller units on board. In the semi-fanal in the afternoon against the 13 LFA we lost the toes and toss and the match, the latter team passing into the final.
18	It seems likely that we will reach RANGOON on Saturday with a real chance of going into action without much delay. A conference of OS.C unuts decided on various details in connection with wireless frequencies, code names, wireless procedure etc. It was deciced to keep all coding in a very simple form and to allot the Bty three frequencies, on for each to and one for the rear link with Bde HQ,
	A pay parade was held in the afternoon.
19	Major Molyneux gave a lecture on RASC practice and procedures. Ammunition was drawn from the Armoury in preparation for landing on Saturaday. The sea has been calm and the weather very fine since COLOMBO and the stare of health is very good, only one man in the Bty being sick.
20	The ship is now approaching a possible danger area and Bofors gins are moaned continuously. We are due in tomorrow at 0600 hrs.
21	The ship docked at 1030 hrs, a fog having held up navigation in the difficult RANGOON R. The towns and docks are deserted, the whole population having been given 24 hrs notice to leave some days before. All shops, hotels and restaurants are shut and no Indian labour is available at the quayside, The Bde Comd came aboard as soon as the ship tied up and disembarkation commended soon after. The Bde Comd had only been here three days, having spent almost three weeks in JAVA. There were about 70 lorries available to transport tps and baggage to the camp site at Tnakyan about 18 miles from RANGOON. The camp is in a rubber estate whic is cool and shady with good drinking water laid on.
	Unloading of tanks, guns and trucks commenced immediately and went on continuously throughout the night. Information from Army HQ is to the effect that the Japanese have already destroyed the ferry across the SITTNAG R and two Bdes of 17 Ind Div may have difficulty in withdrawing from their present posn on the EAST bank of the river. One bde has already cross and is withdrawing through PEGU to cover RANGOON. The task of 7 Armd Bde is to deny the approaches to RANGOON and to attack and destroy any enemy crossing the SITTANH R.
22	All Bty trucks were unloaded by 1200 hrs but only four guns and one limber have so far come of the "MAURISSA". Tanks have first priority and there may be some delay with the guns. There is general looting in the town and dock area and available NAAFI stores are being distributed to the tps free. The is an air of considerable confusion everywhere, the civil authority having ceased to function in the RANGOON district. Streams of native refugees throng the rds out of the city, all heading NORTH to MANDALAY.
23	New arrived at 1200 hrs that the "MAURISSA" had sailed without fully unloading and had taken with her one of our guns, three limbers, spare tank engines and about 190 tons of Browning amn,.The Bde Comd immediately went to ARMY HQ, who steps, through Naval authorities to have her stopped and thurned back to RANGOON, The Bde have orders to move tonight up to a fwd area at 0200 hrs tomorrow morning. One "D" Tp guns is leaking oil and had to go to Ordnance and one "E" Tp gun is having considerable trouble with packings and has also gone into Ordnance, This means that "D" Tp will leave with three guns and "E" Tp with only two, the other gun still on the shop. This is a disappointing start and poor return for all the hard-work put in at QUASSASSIN before we started. Bty HQ is leaving with Bde HQ at 0300 hrs.
24	Both tps arrived in their fwd areas before dawn. "D" Tp `str in the neighnour hood on PEGU and "E" Tp in the neighbourhood of PAYASTI about 8 miles to the NORTH of PEGU. One 3 tonner amn truck belonging to "D" Tp was damage during the journey sustaining a punctured radiator. This is being repaired by 7 H on the spot. Other vehicles had pertrol trouble on the journey owing to water in the petrol. Bde HQ is at PEGU and Bty HQ is near them. Regtl "N" Echs are supplying the tps with more petrol, water and rations, and Bde HQ is doing the same for Bty HQ. This has entailed splitting yp the Bty "B" Ech vehicles among the two regts, abut it appears to be a satisfactory solution. The Bty Comd visited "E" Tp and the Bty Capt visited "D" Tp during the morning. It is hoped that the two guns with Ordnance wukk be back by the afternoon.
25	The Bty Comd visited both tps and both regtl Comds in the morning and the Bty Capt visited "E" To in the afternoon. During the night of 24/25, one sqn of the 7 H with "D" Tp under comd moved fwd to THAMATPIN about 5 miles SE of PEGU. This move was consequent upon a report that the enemy had landed a force on the coast about 26 miles E of PEGU. A coy of W Yorks were also placed under comd of 7 H and reached the area of the reported enemy but failed to make contact with the enemy. It is now though that the first report may have been wrong or alternatively that the Japanese have taken to the villages and mixed with the local Burmese population wearing civilian dress, They have done this in other areas. An attempt was made during the night to the canal br at THAMATPIN, presumably by 5th columnists and the Sqn Comd pressed of the forced evacuation of the native population from the disrtrict. The "MAURIsSA" is due back in RANGOON this afternoon and "E" Tp;s fourth gub should should be avalable tomorrow.
26	During the night 25/26, news came through to Bde that a considerable force of the enemy had been seen on the opposite side of the canal at WAW and at a point further to the NORTH. Various tp dispositions were made to the situations and "E" Tp were ordered to stand to at about 0100 hrs. During the morning the reports were investigated more fully and it is now doubtful whether any enemy were as far fwd as the SITTANG-PEGU canal area. The 17 Ind Div tps appear to be in a jumpy state and their reports to be exaggerated and unreliable. The Bty Comd in company with the Bde Comd visited WAW in the morning and could obtain no first hand reports of any enemy in the district. Our own tps (2 R Tanks) have burst all the native houses on the EAST side of the canal at WAW too prevent enemy occupation and to give a clear view of the country from the br. Both the ry br and the rd br were destroyed by us during the night. The fourth "E" Tp gun addived during the morning with one limber, the remaining limber will follow tomorrow.
27	During the night of 26/27, "E" Tp were ordered to move a section of guns to a posn about 5 miles NORTH in the direction of TABON. Owing to a complete breakdown of wireless in the F.O.Ds' thank, the guns never came into action and eventually returned to the posn at PATAGTI. It appears that owing to the great vibration in the M3 tank when moving at speed, the No. 11 set is liable to be put out of action. The tank regts have experienced the same problem. As a result the Bty Comd ordered the set be taken out of the tank and put back into the Bren carrier. Until the enemy deploy tanks for A Tk guns, the use of a tank by an F.O.O. seems to be quite unnecessary and wasteful. In he early hours of the morning our tps were fired in by armd bands of Burmese from the village of TABON. The tanks of 2 R Tanks immediately opened fire on the village, killing 14 men and taking 6 prisoners. Of the 6 prisoners, 5 were subsequently shot as being 5th columnist civilians taking up arms against us. All arms captured were supplied by the Japanese and incl machine guns, tommy-guns and rifles.
	During the morning the enemy bombed the PEGU Br and out it out of action to heavy traffic necessitating a diversion. At 1100 hrs "E" Tp were ordered to put a section of guns in action near TABON to support operations on the band to the EAST of thevillage. They subsequently fired about 30 rds on a village in which the armed Burmese were thought to be concealed.
28	At a conference at 0800 hrs at Bde HQ it was disclosed that Army HQ had decided to withdraw from the present posn with a view to a general withdrawal to Upper BURMA. The immediate role of the Armoured Bde is to deny the approach to RANGOON by taking up a line HJEGU-DABEIN until such timeas the demolition of RANGOON is complete. 7 H and "D" Tp are to to tp HLEGU amd 2 R Tanks and "E" Tp to TAUKKYAN. Bde HQ and Bty HW are to go to HLEGU. One sqn 7 H are orderd to THARRAWADDY to guard the dumps there.

March 1942 Commanding Officer: Major B.de J. PEREIRA.
Hour. Date, Place	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
1	The Bty Comd visited both tps and "B" Ech during the morning. The conditions in the village of HLEGU are very bad and it has been decided to move out of the village, if a site cane be found.
2	Gen Sir A.P. Wavell CBE, KCG, CMG, MC, C-in-C INDIA and BURMA visited the Bde in the morning, A patrol of 2 R Tanks was fired on my heavy mortars from the village of WAW. There 4" mortars are very accurate and casualties were incurred when 2 tanks sustained direct hits/ An attack was put in by one coy 1 Cameroonians supported by a sqn 2 R Tanks and fire from one section "E" Tp.. The infantry entered the village but were later withdrawn after sustaining casualties from mortar and MG fire from the EAST bank of the canal
3	Bde HQ moved fwd again to PEGU and 2 R Tanks to {PAYAGUI and 7 J just SOUTH of PEGU.
	Tanks and infantry were subjected to mortar and MG fire from the village of RYAIKHLA, and to fd gun and MG fire from the village of PYINBON where the enemy had erected a rd block. "D" Tp were ordered to join "E" Tp who went into action early in the morning against the enemy in RYAIKHLA. Both tps engaged in a fire plan to support an attack by inf and tanks against the village. The attack was not successful and the attacking troops were subsequently withdrawn. A gin was detached in the morning from "D" Tp to deal with the rd block PYINBON. It was not an easy to get good observation of the target, but about 50 rds were fired into the traget area. Later in the afternoon the remaining guns of "D" Tp were brought up to PYINBON in order to take part in a barrage on this village. The barrage was ordered in order to allow the tanks to get out two carriers which had been stranded in view of the enemy in the morning. The operations was successfully completed and both carrier were got away without casualties.
4	Patrols of 7 H, who had moved fws in the early hours located enemy at PAYAGYI. There appeared to be about 100 Japanese infantry and one or two 75 mm fd guns which fired on our tanks. F.O.Os from both tps moved fwd and engaged targets in this village and surrounding woods with success. Capt Shorten acting as F.O.O. for "D" Tp considered that he had hit and silenced one the fd guns.
	In the afternoon both tps fired a concentration on the village which was followed by bombing from two Blenheims. Tanks of the 7 H went in later and reported the are clear of the enemy. The enemy had also established himself in the village of NAUNGPATKAYA on the PEGU-MOULMEIN ry. He was also thought to be in SHAN-YWAGYI about 5 miles SQ of NAUNGPATKAYA. Paterols of 2 R Tanks with inf (1 Cameronians), dislodged hin from the latter area in the afternoon. In the evening noth tps returned to PEGU for the night. The Bde Comd complimented the Bty on the good work done during the day.
5	Patrols of the 7 H located the enemy in the PAYAGYI area again in the morning. They also saw two enemy lt tanks. There retired as soon as they were engaged by our tanks. "D" To moved up in the early hours of the morning and engaged enemy inf in the village of PAYAGYI. "E" tp remained in the PEGU area, having reverted to support of 2 R Tanks. Enemy bombers twice bombed PEGU during the day but apart from starting fires failed to do any damage. In the evening Bde HQ withdrew to HLEGU but Bty HQ remained at PEGU.
6	In the early morning, "E" To, who were in a harbour area for the night abut 1½ miles SOUTH of PEGU, were fired on by mortar at close range and sustained a number of casualties, two of which were subsequently fatal (Dvr Brown (EACE amn lorry dvr) and Gnr Brewer G). The injured were Gnr Dean FE, Gnr Meades F, Gnr Thonpson JB and A/L/Bder Broad LT. In addition Sgt Swansborough RJ, L/Sgt Read AW and L/Sgt Pounds JS were slightly injured by returned to duty. The Bty Comd reported to the Bde Comd 48 Ind Inf Bde (Brigadier Hugh Jines MC) who order the Bty HQ and "E" Tp to withdraw to a position inside the town.
	"D" Tp were still NORTH of PEGU under Comd 7 H. A large number of enemy approached the two during the day and were engaged by tps of the 48 Ind Inf Bde and fire from "E" Tp. The range throughout between 1600 and 1800 yards. In the evening orders were received to withdraw from the town to HLEGU and a conference of OsC units was held to decide on the best method, During the day the enemy had established a rd block about 12 miles SOUTH of the town and it was necessary to force the obstruction before withdrawal could take place. It was decided to evacuate the town about 0400 hrs on 7 Mar and to bombard the block with artillery fire and then force a passage with tanks. During the night 6/7 Mar "D" Tp and 7 H withdrew from the NORTH of PEGU and went into harbour between the town and the rd block. Previous to this 7 H closely supported by fire from "D" Tp, had knocked out three enemy tanks and captured four A.Tk guns and a quantity of rifles and other material. The town was bombed repeatedly throughout the day.
7	The withdrawal out of the town to a point about a mile from the rd block was successfully carried out between the hrs of 0400 and 0700, the br over yje PEGU R being blown after the last vehicles had left the town. Bty HQ and "E" Tp joined "D" Tp in their harbour area at 0300 hrs and both tps went into action in the area. At 0830 hrs fire was opened on the rd block observed by Capt Shorten in his tanks and an inetense barrage from all guns was put down. The enemy was present in considerable numbers with mortars, A/ tk guns and LMGs.. The fire was very successful and the tanks were able to go in and clear the obstruction.
	Vehicles started moving through about 1000 hrs and were subjected to a certain amount of sniping by MGs hidden in the jungle who had escape the artillery fire. A number of vehicles were hit and the Bty lost a Bren Carrier (Through mortar fire) 1 3 tonner amn truck and 1 M/C. They also suffered a few casualties = L/Bder Freeman SJD, (subsequently died of wounds) - Gnr Nutter A, Gnr Norman W. In addition, Capt Chaplin and 2/Lt Crump were slightly wounded bu remain on duty.
	On the way back to HLEGU the Bty was stopped by order of 63 Ind Inf Bde and ordered to go into action to cover the withdrawal of the 48 Ind Inf Bde to HLEGU. In the evening they reverted to the comd of 7 Armd Bde and withdrew into the Bde harbour area 3 mile SOUTH of HLEGU.
8	At 0500 hrs both tps were orderd into action to cover an attack on a rd block established by the enemy on the PROME rd about 3 miles NORTH OF TAUKKYAN. The attack on the rd block started at about 0930 hrs and was successful and thereupon the whole BURMA Army were ordered to withdraw NORTH along the PROME rd to THARRAWADDY. "D" Tp went fws wih 7 H and "E" To remained with 2 R Tanks as reargd. The evacuation of the BURMA Army took place throughout the day and the reargd did not start their withdrawal until 1930 hrs in the evening. The general morale of the retreating tps appeared to be bad, with the exception of the 7 Armd Bde Gp, and there repeated incidents of panic, especially among the Indian tps. The tps withdrawing conssisteded of 48 and 63 Ind Inf Bdes, Army HQ, 17 Ind Inf Div HQ, The KOYLIS, 1 Cameronians, 1 West Yorjs, 1 Glos, 1 Ind Fd Regt RA, A.Tk and AA Regts nd various attached troops. Bde HQ and Bty HQ went into harbour area for the night nr the villae of Tatyigon and Tps with their respective regts at points on the rd quite near the village. The Armd Bde patrolled the rd throughout the day and night until the last of the inf were clear and their conduct is to be mentioned in a Special Order of the Day by the Army Comd.
9	The withdrawal continued all day with both tank regts patrolling the rd. Bde HQ and Bty HQ went into harbour about 15 miles further NORTH and continued later towards THARRAWADDY. They reached their harbour area about 2000 hrs (to the EAST of the main PROME rd about 3 miles NORTH of THARAWADDY) and remained their for the night.
10	The day was spend by the Bde Go in resting and completing a thorough maintenance of tanks, guns and vehicles, The tanks have proved themselves mechanically sound and many of them have now run over 100 miles without overhaul.
	The withdrawal of the infantry and slower units continued during the day and all tps are now in o NORTH of THARRAWADDY. An educated BURMAN who had escaped from Japanese at RANGOON reported that their were approximately 4000 of the enemy in the town.
11	The Bde Gp remained in the harbour area during the day in order to continue full maintenance on tanks and guns.
	It is intended to hold a line from the IRRAWADDY R Eastwards passing through a point a few miles SOUTH of THARRAWADDY. It seems likely that the Bde will revert to Army reserved and [proceed the PROME and be employed in future in a suitable role. Up to now they have been expected to carry out jobs more suited for I Tanks. (Op Order 11 Mar attd)
12	Maintenance was continued during the day. The Bty Comd and Bty Capt visited both tps.
	A special mess of congratulations was received by the Comd 7 Armd Bde Go from the Army Comd (attd)
13	In the evening the Bde Gp moved NORTH to the neighbourhood of OKPO about 35 miles from THARRAWADDY where trhey went into harbour. 7 H with "D" To under comd acted as reargd for the inf who were also withdrawing NORTH to OKPO.
14	In the evening the withdrawal of the inf to the neighbourhood of OKPO having been completed, the Bde Go moved a few miles farther NORTH to a new harbour area near the village of GYOSINGAUK. The whole Go less the A/Tk Bty are together again.
15	The Bde Go remained in the GYOSINGAUK harbour area and continued maintenance on tanks and vehicles.
16	Straggles from the RANGOON area report that the enemy are present in the city in considerable numbers, 5000/6000, but show on sign of immediate move NORTH. The present posns of our own tps is being consolidated and active patrolling takes place,
17	The Bde Gp remained in the harbour area.
	The 1 Burma Div have been in action near the SITTANG R. It is the intention to move the div over to PROME and form a BURMA Corps, based on PROME for the defence of NORTH BURMA and the oilfields
18	The Bty Comd visited PROME but found all the shops shut and an evacuation of the civilian population tanking place.
	The BDe Go remained in the harbour area.
19	During the day a report came through of enemy in the LETPAJAN area. A Sqn of 2 R Tanks with "E" Tp under comd were sent to the area, The enemy were engaged and routed by the 1 GLOS and the tanks searched the surrounding villages. The main body of the enemy is still in TAIKKYI. The tanks and guns returned in the evening/
20	Bde Gp less 2 R Tanks and "E" Tp withdrew to new harbour area about 2 miles NORTH of FAUNGDE. Div HQ withdrew to PAUNGDW.
21	The Bde Gp remaind in the new harbour area.
	News was received during the day of enemy "paratroops" landing in small numbers behind our lines. Up to now none of these have been captured.
	As appreciation of the situation and a survey of future intentions has been issued by BIRMARMY ( see attd Op Instr dated 21.3.42)
22	2 R Tanks with "E" To under comd rehoined the Bde Gp in the PAUNGDE Harbour area. They have been action as reargd to cover the withdrawal of the Inf Bdes to the new posns. The have not been in contact with the enemy/
23	The Bde Gp remained in the harbour area.
	The enemy are reported to be adv from the SOUTH on both banks of the IRRAWADDY but so far no contact has been made.
24	The Bde Gp remained in the harbour area.
	General maintenance of guns and vehicles carried out.
25	Bde Gp remained in the harbour area and so far have not been called on for active operations in the area,
26	It has been decided to move the Bde Gp back to PROME area, less 7 H and "D" Tp, who are to remain as reargd and will move tonight. The journey was a slow one and the vehicles did not arrive until 2300 hrs at the new harbour area at YAMAGAUK about 7 miles NW of PRONE. (7 Armd Bde GP Op Order No3)
27	The 7 H and "D" Tp rejoined the Bde Gp at YAMAGAUK in the evening.
	The enemy are still moving NORTH at a rapid pace and expected in the PAUNGHE arew ahortly/
28	The day was spent in the new harbour area.
	It was disclosed at a conference at Bde HQ in the evening that the Bde had been ordered to send a force SOUTH to the PAUNGHE area and contact the enemy. The First objective is to occupy PAUNGDE and the second is to push fwd and occupy OKPO. The force under Bde Comd consist of
	414 Bty RHA 7 H Bde HQ Sqn 1 Cameronians 1 W Yorks DWR
	The 1 Glos who are already in the PAUNGDE area and in contact with the enemy will come under comd on the arrival of the force in this area,
29	The Force let at 0400 hrs and arrive at INMA about 10 miles WNW of PAUNGHE at about 0700 hrs. A swn of the 7 H were sent out to make contact with 1 Glos who were thought to be at PADIGON and another sqn to move on PAUNGHE and occupy if possible. The first of these sqns was fired on by A/Tk or fd gun while approaching a wood between WETPOK and PADIGON and tow tanks were knocked out. "D" Tp were immediately ordered into action and fire was brought down on this wood. Later in the morning as attack was put in by 1 Cameronians supported by fie from "D" TP on this wood and after considerable opposition this attach was successful. In the meantime "B" Sqn 7 H reported that they had occupied PAUNGHE and found rd blocks to the SOUTH of the town, During the attack on the town at least gas bomb was thrown by the enemy and the crews of the tanks were forced to use their gas masks..
	Considerable enemy reinforcements were seen to be approaching from the SOUTH into the woods on either flank of the town. Inf (DWR) were order late into these woods and a number of sharp engagements took place during which considerable casualties were suffered on both sides. Subsequently, owing to further enemy reinforcements reaching these woods, our own infantry were withdrawn NORTH of the town.
	One tp of tanks remained for some time longer in the vicinity of ther rd block. "E" To had been ordered into action to support these objectives aronnd PAUNGHE but were not called on to fire.
	While these operations were taking place news was received at Bde HQ that the enemy had got across the rd at SHWEDAUNG and had put up a number of rd blocks on the rd at point SOUTH of the town in a thickly wooded area. The Bty Comd was sent back to deal with the situation and was give a force consisting of 1 sqn of tanks, 2 coys of inf(1 Glos( and 1 tp 25 pdr("D" Tp) for the purpose.
	The first block was located at about 1900 hrs and found to be clear if enemy and the Inf were ordered to occupy the woods either side and keep the rd open. The tanks then moved on and located the second block which appeared to be strongly held. Fire was again opened by "D" Tp and the tanks went fwd again for further investigation. It was found that the enemy were still active with mortar and MGs and out own Inf were ordered up to clear the woods. Two coys entered the woods but were unable to clear them and had to be withdrawn. The area was then subjected to a further bombardment and 3 cops on inf were put in but faile to make good their objectve. In the meantime our main force has withdrawb Northwars and has reached the area of the rd blocks.
	After a conference at Bde HQ it was decided to wait until daylight and hen attack the area with al the forces available,
30	The attack started at 0715 hrs and after a preliminary barrage by the whole Bty, two bns of inf made up of the remnants of the four depleted bns adv through the woods. AT 0815 hrs the woods were reported to be clear of enemy and the force ordered to proceed to PROME. As soon at the first vehicles entered the woods it cbecame clear that the report was erroneous and heavy fire from A.Tk guns, mortars and MGs firing on fired lines was brought down on our tps. The enemy were also using grenades and Molotov cocktails and several tanks were knocked out and set on fire.
	It became clear that the unarmoured vehicles would nvert get through the woods and an attack was ordered from the NORTH by two Ind INF bns which had reached the NORTH end of the woods on the other side of the rd blocks. This attacj was not successful and vehicles and guns were farced to run the gauntlet and make a dash for it, Several vehicles were knocked out and set on fire and this added to the difficulty of those following,
	In the Bty the losses were considerable and consisted of 2 guns, 2 limbers. 3 tractors (AWD), 4.3 tonners, 5 M.cs. The casualties wirer also heavy and were as follows :- Killed BSM Ward, Bde Donald, Gnr Ellis, Gnr Wilkinson WV, Gnt Stansne - Wounded BSM Eves, Sgt Anderson, Sgt Davey, Sgt Goddard, Sgt Spencer, Cpl Grundy, Gnr Morris, Gnr Oakley, Gnr Ronson, Gnr Thornily, Gnr Turner, Gnr Watson. 7 H suffered considerable losses to tanks and personnel and the whole of the inf tpt was virtually list. The force withdrew to its old harbour area at TAMAGAUK (see attd 7 Armd Be account of operations.
31	The day was spend in ascertaining and, as possible, making good losses of equipment and resting the tps.
	The enemy continued to advance NORTH and were taking up posns for the attack on PROME.

April 1942 Commanding Officer: Major B.de J. PEREIRA.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1st		The Brigade Group was ordered to withdraw to Allanmo about 40 miles North of Prome. During the day the Enemy started his attack oon Prome in considerable force. 2RTR amd E Troop were ordered to remain in the Prome area under command 46th Indian Infantry Brigade.
	2nd		The Brigade moved to Allanmyo at 0700 hrs arriving about 0900 hrs in the new harbour area. The enemy capture Prome in the early hours of the morning and the whole of our forces were ordered to withdraw northwards. The 2 RTR weere ordered to proceed along the road to Allanmyo as soon as possible and keep it open for the infantry moving north. This they succeeded in doing and managed to ferrry large numbers of infantry without transport on their tanks clear of the danger area, They arrived with E Troop Allanmyo in the evening.
	3rd		The Brigade Group less 2RTR and E Troop moved a further 50 miles north to Satthwa and a new harbour area was chosen just north of the village. 2 RTR are to remain in Allanmyo to cover the withdrawal of the 17th Division northwards. This division is now in a very tired condition and the 1sr Burma Division has now taken over the fighting and task of making contact with the enemy.
	4th		The Brigade Group remain in the harbour area at Satthwas during the day. E Troop are still at Allanmyp with 2 RTR. No contact has been made with the enemy forces alleged to be moving north from Prome between the road and the Irrawaddy
	5th		The Brigade Group remained at Satthwa and 2 RTR and £ Troop moved up to a point about 20 miles from Satthwa and remained under command 46 Ind Inf Bde.
	6th		The Brigade Group remained in their present locations. The Battery Commander and Battery Captain both E Troop and 2 RTR in their new harbour area.
	7th		The whole Brigade are to moved back to Samo about 5 miles west of Taungdwingyi tonight and to take up positions from which they can be used as a striking force in defence of the oilfields. 2RTR and £ Troop will reverted to Command 7th Armd Bde again.
	8th		The move to the new harbour area at Samo was completed by 2300 hrs on the night of 7/8th. As 2 RTR were leaving their harbour area they made contact with and fired on three enemy vehicles thought to be tanks; the fire was not returned.
	9th		The Brigade Group remained in the Samo harbour area, Reports have been received of an enemy force 2000/3000 moving up East of the Taungdwingyi road in the direction of that town. It is also reported that the Chinese are to send a division to take over Taungdwingyi and that the responsibility of the 17 Division weill be from that town westwards to the Irrawaddy.
	10th		The Brigade remained at Samo. Enemy air activity on the Irrawaddy front is increasing considerably and machines are over most of the day.
	11th		Reports from forward patrols indicate that the enemy have advance and are now in a position on a wide front facing the line were are holding from Taungdwingyi westwards to the Irrawaddy. Brigade HQ and 7th Hussars moved about 4 miles further east in the evening and went into a new harbour area at Higaraw. 2 RTR remained in the Samo area. Bty HQ and both troops moved to Hingaraw with Brigade HQ,
	12th		Both trrops went into action in the morning in the Hingaraw area and engaged targets in the Samo area. Patrols of the 7th Hussars moved southwards and reported enemy in the villages of Songon and Kobin; they also reported one enemy tank. This tank was one of our own which was lost at Shwedaung and it was not appreciated that it was in enemy possession, and it was therefore, able to escape. 2RTR werr on constant partol along the road westward to milestone 303. A roadblock was discovered in the morning at milestone 295 but was later remove without difficulty. The enemy are using artillery and appear to have 6 guns in action. 2 RTR had tow tanks hit by artillery fire during the afternoon, one of these was burnt out but the other has been recovered, E Troop were also shelled and had to move their position.
	13th		Both troops were in action in position round Hingaraw. In the afternoon Captain Shorten was able to get observation of the enemy guns and promptly engaged theu with D Troop. He succeeded in neutralizing them but was unable to say whether he had knocked them out. In the evening 2 RTR with E Troop and Brigade and Battery HQs moved to a new harbour area st Shabinhla anout 30 miles from Hingaraw. 7th Hussars and D troops remained in their present positions and came under command 17th Indian Division who are still at Taungdwingyi . During the day there were several enemy bombing raids on a road-river bridge at Thadodan which they damaged but did not render unusable.
	14th		The Brigade Group less 7th Hussars and D Troop who are still at Taungdwingyi moved to a new harbour at Kanhla and were able to effect certain badly needed maintenance.
	15th		The 1st Burma Division who have been pressed back from Magwa approached the Hanhla harbour area during the early afternoon pursued by the enemy. E Troops went into action during the day in support of the tanks of 2 RTR who were attempting to cover the withdrawal of our forces, There were a number of bombing and dive machine gun attacks during the day.
	16th		Brigade HQ with 2 RTR less on squadron, Battery HQ and E Troop moved to new harbour area about 3 miles north Yenangaung. The road lay through the oilfields which were all blazing as a result of the 'scorched earth' policy in operation throughout the battlefield. Only 1 squadren of 2RTR and the guns of E troop reached the harbour area with Brigade HQ, the reminder together with a large column of Burma Division vehicles was stopped just short of the Ford over the Pin Chanug (a tributary of the Irrawaddy) by an enemy road block covered by mortar,a/tank and M.G. fire.
	17th		An attack was put in on the roadblock by the West Yorkshire Regiment, ;A; Sqaadrin of 2 RTR and supported by fire from E Troop.. The attach was successful and the tanks and vehicles were able to get through the roadblock and join the Brigade in the new harbour area. 7th Hussars and D Troop remain in the Taungdwingyi area. $ Troop lost one 3tonner ammunition lorry as a result of this operation.
	18th		A regiment of the 38th Chinese Division moved South during the day and took up positions North of Yenangaung in collaboration with our troops. The put in an attach with the West Yorkshire Regt and supported by fire from E Troop in order to clear the enemy from the area of the Pin Chaung crossing. This attack became necessary as the whole of 1st Burma Div are now in Yenangaung and unable to cross the river owing too the presence of the enemy. The attack was successful and our leading troops reached the North bank of the river. This is possibly the first time that a British Battery has come under orders of and supported a Chinese force. The Battery was complimented by he Chinese Division Commander, General Sun, on the good showing during the day's operations. E Troop fired harrassing task throughout the night	Message from 2 i/c Chinese Division attached. No 1
	19th		The attack was continued at first light and again supported by covering fire from E Troop. The allied troops made the river crossing and continued the attack up the higher ground towards Yenangaung. The enemy had place a strong road block just north of the town during the night and this considerably added to the difficulties of the 1st Burma Division in extricating themselves from the difficult position they were in. The troops of this division have not had any food or water for 46 hours and are in a very bad state. While the attacks were going on a number of troops on foot and pack animals were able to find a way round the road block and escape across the river. There were in a very exhausted start, Late in the afternoon it became obvious that it would not be possible to clear the road block and the surrounding area of enemy in the remaining hours of daylight and in consequence the order was given to destroy all transport in Yenangaung and for the troops to make their way out on foot by a diversion further to the East. 'A' Squadron 2 RTR lost 4 tanks as a result of the operation round the road block. A number of pack animals in the Division were also got out.
	20th		The Chinese continued their attacks throughout the day supported nu a considerable volume of fire from E Troop, The Chinese have jno artillery of their own and are entirely dependent on us in this respect. During the day the Corps Commander, Lieut-General Slim M.C. sent a message of congratulations to the Battery on their good shooting in support of the Chinese. The attack made some headway during the morning but slowed up considerably in the afternoon when the fighting consisted of house to house encounters with the enemy. ;C; Squadron 2 RTR supported the attack. The Battery were complimented by the Divisional Command for their good work.	Message attached No 2 Message attached No 3
	21st		The Chinese forces were withdrawn across the Pin Chaung at first light and have taken up positions North of the river. It was found impossible to dislodge the enemy from the town with the troops available. It is probable that the attack on Yenangaung will be continued later if more Chinese troops arrive in the area, Brigade HQ and 2 RTR less 'C' Squadron are moving to a new area at the 34th Milestone on the Meiktila - Kyaukpadaung road, E Troop and C Squadron are remaining in the present positions and wil come under command Chinese 38th Division.
	22nd		C Squadron and E Troop with the Battery Commander and Battery Captain who remained with them, were ordered to move back to Gwqgyo at 0100 hrs in the morning. This was duly carried out and at daylight E Troop came into action in the Gwegyo area with an O,P, on top of a 1000 ft hill. During the day C Squadron sent patrols as far South as the Pin Chaung but failed to make contact with the enemy.
	23rd		E Troop remained in action during the day but did not engaged the enemy. D Troop and 7th Hussars rejoined the 7th Armd Bde fro Taungdwingyi and are now in the harbour area on the Meiktila-Kyaukpadaung Road. C Squadron again sent out patrols to the Pin Chaung but did not contact the enemy. :Local Burmese near the river report the presence of enemy tanks on the South bank/ At 2300 hrs ordered were received for the force t move back to Kyaukpadaung. The move was carried out without incident and a new harbour area was selected about 1 mile North-East of \|Kyaukpadaung.
	24th		E Troop went into action at Kyaukpadaung but did not engaged the enemy. The usual patrols were sent out, Both the tanks and the Battery maintain a close liaison with the Chinese whom they are supporting. The Brigade Group moved back to a new harbour about 6 miles North of Meiktila. The Japanese appear to be advancing on the front.
	25th		E Troop and Battery HQ rejoined the Brigade Group in their new harbour North of Meiktila. C Squadron remained at Kyaukpadaung under command 38th Chinese Divisiion. During the morning a a patrol of 2 RTR contacted enemy tanks on the Pyawbwu Road South of Meiktila. The main enemy force appears to be concentrated on our left flank and the Chinese further to our left are being pressed hard.
	26th		7th Hussars contacted he enemy near Pyintha S.W. of Meiktila and went into action supported by fire from D Troop. In the course of the action the fire of the troop silenced a gun which was firing on the tanks. Two tanks were lost during the day. In the evening 7th Hussars and D Troop withdrew to the Brigade Harbour Area after covering the withdrawal of the Chinese from Meiktila.
	27th		During the night the enemy advanced North of Meiktila and were engaged by 2 RTR supported by the fire of E Troop. A troop of 1st Indian Field regiment were ordered into action alongside E Troop, all seven guns being fired by E F.O.O. 2RTR lost 3 thanks during the day, In the evening the Brigade were ordered to withdraw North of Mandalay. Before this move was carried out the tanks of the Brigade were used for ferrying the troops of 63rd Indian Infantry Brigade back from a position 14 miles North of Meiktila to a point North of Kyaukse. The entailed a number of journeys by the tanks and considerable track mileage. The whole operation was successfully carried out late in the evening. 7th Hussars and D Troop are reoaining in Kyauke to cover the withdrawal; of the 63rd Indian Infantry Brigade.
	28th		The Brigade less 7th Hussars arrived in a new harbour area about 30 miles North of Mandalay at 0700 hrs after an all-night drive. 7th Hussars and D Troop remained at Kyaukse.
	29th		7th Hussars made contact with the enemy at Kyaukse and supported by fire from D Troop inflicted many casualties. The 48th Ind Inf Bde are also at Kyaukse and tool part in these operations with considerable success. The Gurkas fought well. Brigade remained in the same harbour area. During the day a number of our men rejoined the Battery, including Sgt. Goddard and Sgt. Spencer.. They had been in the hospital at Maymyo. During the night 29/30th 7th Hussars and G Troop rejoined the Brigade.
	30th		The whole of the Brigade Group remained in the harbour area during the day. At 1900 hrs in the evening the Battery were ordered to proceed to Sagaing on the West Bank of the Irrawaddy opposite Mandalay and support the 38th Chinese Division. The Battery Commander and Battery Captain went forward and made contact with General Sun commanding the Division and arranged to move the Battery into position at first light the following morning. The Burma Army have now taken up positions in a line running westwards from Mandalay to Monywa on he Chindwain River and thence Northwestwards for a further 50 to 100 miles following the line of that river. The Aya Bridge across the Irrawaddy ws blown up during the night.



H.Q., 7th Armd Bde Gp. -------------------	No 1	H.Q. Chinese New 38 Div., C.E.F. ----------------------

I cannot speak too highly of the splendid work your battery of guns had done both yesterday afternoon and today. Its accurate fire had certainly inflicted the enemy a considerable number of casualties. The tanks also had done well. I will to express thanks and appreciation to those officers and men of the Artillery and tank units which have done such good work,


	(sd) Yours very respectfully.
	H.C. Chi. Gen.
	2 i/c Chinese New 38 Div C.E.F



H.Q., 7th Armd Bde Gp. -------------------	No 2	H.Q. BURCORPS -------------

The Corps Comd wishes to convey to all ranks of 7 Armd Bde especially to 2nd Bn R Tanks and 414 Bty R.H.A., his appreciation and admiration for their conduct in the YENANGYAUNG operation. The have never failed to meet the innumerable demands made on them; the courage, cheerfulness and invariable willingness to help orther have neem an inspiration to their comrades in all units.


	(sd) W.L. WALKER Capt
	for Brig
	Gen. Staff 1 BURCORPS



H.Q., 7th Armd Bde Gp. -------------------	No 3	H.Q. I Bur Div ----------

Please convey to all ranks of your command the gratitude of my officers, my men and myself for you help during the YENANGYAUNG fighting/ Their courage, determination, and uncomplaining self-sacrifice under exceptionally trying circumstances was an inspiration and example to all. We shall always remember the Royal Armoured Corps with admiration and affection, through the splendid co-operation of your Bde.


	(sd) Yours bery sincerely
	BRUCE SCOTT. Maj-Gen
	Comd 1 Bur Div

May 1942 Commanding Officer: Major B.de J. PEREIRA.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1st,		The Battery moved at first light and took up positions from which fire could be brought down on the East bank of the Irrawaddy on wither sided of the Bridge. The river narrows at this point and it is considered a likely place for a Japanese crossing. The Troops registered various points on the East bank during the day. News was received in the afternoon that Japanese had made a surprise attack on Monywas and had established road blocks on the roads out of the town. The whole of 1st Burma Division are in Monywas and Division HQ ere take by surprise and are though to have lost all their equipment, secret papers, cyphers, wireless, etc.7th Hussars have a squadron to the East of the town and 2 RTR a squadron to the North-east. The whole Armoured Brigade were ordered to proceed to the Monywas area to assist 1st Burma Div abd the Battery came out of action at Sagaing and rejoined the Brigade at 2000 hrs in the evening. Tanks and guns then proceeded to a point 20 miles North of Monywas vy a roundabout route through Shwebo and Yanu, a distance of 130 miles, This was the only available route.
	2nd		The Brigade arrived in their new harbour area about 0900 hrs and 7th Hussars went forward to attempt to make contact with the enemy. Leading Squadrons advance to a point 4 miles North of the town without making contact. In the afternoon a patrol of tanks went round to East of the town and made contact with 15th Brigade in Monywas. The Squadron of 7th Hussars who were already in that area came out later bring wounded infantry on their tanks. 13th Brigade are to attempt a withdrawal northwards during the night.
	3rd		The whole of the 1st Burma Division were able to get out of Monywa during the night and immediately proceed north to Ye-u. All available transport has been impressed unto service to lift and ferry as many men as possible. The distance to Ye-u is about 60 miles and both men and animals started the journey in a very tired condition 2 RTR supported by E Troop are covering the withdrawal and acting as rearguard. There is now no hope of successfully engaging the enemy again in Burma and the only policy is one of withdrawal to India as quickly as possible. There are considerable difficulties in carrying out this span, notably the crossing of the Chindwin at Kalawa. It is extremely unlikely that it will be possible to get any of our transport across the Chindwin river, if we succeed in getting it as far as the river itself a very difficult journey, It is bitterly disappointing to have to destroy all our tanks and guns and vehicles after having withdrawn them in good order of over 500 miles. It is difficult to understand why provision has not been ade for a proper line of retreat to India. The likelihood of such a retreat should have been obvious from the moment Rangoon fell. It appears that arrangement for ferrying vehicles across the river are hopelessly inadequate.
	4th		The withdrawal towards Ye-u continued throughout the day, 2 RTR and E Troop again doing rearguard, during the night 3.4th three enemy tanks appeared on the road and were engaged by our tanks and dispersed, £ Troop went into action shortly after first light against an enemy battery and infantry. They succeeded in silencing the enemy guns. 7th Hussars and D Troop have been ordered to proceed north along the Kaewa road for patrol duty. In the evening the Brigade moved back to a harbour area about 4 miles South of Ye-U.
	5th		The Brigade remained in the new harbour area during the day. 2 RTR and E Troop moved South again to cover the withdrawal of the 1st Burma Division whose forward elements have now passed Ye-u and are moving towards Kalewa on the Chindwin River, The tanks failed to make any contact with the enemy. The Battery Captain was sent forward with a fully equipped party to push on to ~~Kalewa~~ Saiwgin and attempt to construct rafts for the ferrying tanks, guns and vehicles across the river, During the afternoon during an air raid in the 'B@ Echelon area Sgt-Major Mansfield was wounded by a bomb-splinter, In the evening the whole Brigade Group moved forward on the Kalewa road ro Kadum abiout 25 miles north-west of Ye-u.
	6th		The Brigade remained in the Kaduma area during the day, the yanks patrolling the roads and covering the infantry withdrawal. The 65 Company R.A.S.C. move to ~~Kalewa~~ SHEWGIN in the morning with a view to getting all their vehicles across the river before the tanks and guns arrive. The road all the way from Ye-u are littered with abandon vehicles and these are likely to prove a considerable hindrance to the withdrawal to the river, In the evening Brigade HQ and 2 RTR moved forward again to Pyingaung about 46miles from Kaduma and some 30 miles from ~~Kalewa~~ SHEWGIN. The journey is becoming increasingly difficult. 7th Hussars and D Troop remained inthe Kaduma area.
	7th		The Brigade did not stop at Pyingaund but moved forward to a point about 7 miles short of Shewgin, the whole journey of about 70 miles too 21 hours owning to the congestion on the raods.An effort is to be made to get as many tanks and guns across the rover as possible, but the whole process is necessarily slow as on 10 vehicles a day can be got across. The rains are due in about 10 day time after which further operations may be very difficult. At the moment it looks as though the majority of the Brigade will have to match back to India, not a pleasant prospect at the hottest time of the year through thick jungle with the enemy pressing our rear. 7th Hussars and D Troop are stil at Kaduma.
	8th		7th Hussars and D Troop rejoined the Brigade today. 65 R.A.S.A Coy have got about 30 vehicles and 1 tank across the river, The Battery Commander has gone foreard to the river to arrange for the transport of guns and vehicles. % Troop moved forward during the day to a point about 3 miles from the river.
	9th		E Troops were able to get all 3 guns ovr the river during the day. Brigade moved forward to a pint 3 or 4 miles from the river, One of two boast work during the day, but the majority of the loading takes place at night. The arrangements are very bad at the ferry with hundreds of abandoned vehicles everywhere, and thousands of Indian refugees adding to the confusion. The loading arrangements are also very bad and the ramp is continually collapsing. The whole of the 1st Brumas Div. are now across the river and on the road to India. 17th Indian Division are now moving forward towards the river,
	10th		D Troops got their 3 guns over the river during the day; the last gun on the last boat to cross, The enemy attacked the river crossing in the early morning and fight went on all day. One gun of D Troop was put into action with an O.P. manned throughout the day, and this gun did good work. In addition to guns and limbers the Battery were able to get 2 vehicles out; all the remainder had to be destroyed. Al tanks except one have had to be destroyed and all the Brigade transport except the 30 vehicles got out earlier by the R,A,S,C, are likewise destroyed.
	11th		A reception area has been established at a point about 2 miles East of Kaliwa ad during the day straggles of the Brigade continues to reach this point, 4 Vehicles are being used to ferry the men from the Brigade to a point 27 miles forward on the India road. E Troop have gone with 2 RTR and E Trpp[s are remaining in action under command 17th Indian Division to cover the withdrawal. During the day further vehicles became available for ferrying and the whole Brigade Group was cleared from the area. The march on the previous day to the river which was undertaken by the Brigade less 2 RTR E Troop and the gun crew oif D Troop proved to be very difficult and exhausting, In the evening the Battery less E Troop moved back under command 63rd Ind Inf Bde (Brigadier Barlow) to a new position at milestone 18 near Kalemyo and went into harbour for the night.
	12th		The Battery less E Troops remained in action during the day in their new position. No contact was made with the enemy. The Brigade march away on foot from Imbaung along the Tamu road to India, No transport was available to carry them. The remainder of the 17t Ind Div continued to withdraw and by evening the majority had reached milestone 18. The animal transport necessarily slows uo the spread of the withdrawal. In addition to their 6 guns the Battery were able to save most of their warless equipment and directors etc. Relatively the Battery have been able to save more that any other unit in the Burma Army, which is a satisfactory result.
	13th		The Battery less E Troops remained in action in the same area under command 63rd Ind Inf Bde covering the withdrawal of the 17th Indiab Div. There is no news of E Trop who by this time must have got back a considerable distance. In the evening the Battery moved to Imbaung an came under command 13th Ind Inf Bde (Brigadier Curtis). The troop went into action 2 miles North of the village. The 63rd Bde also moved and passed through the 13th.
	14th		The Battery remained in action at Imbaung during the day, No contact has been made with enemy although stragglers report that Japanese infanty in small numbers entered Kalewa on the 13th. In the evening the Battery moved back to Yasagyo and came under 16th Inf Ind Bde (Brigadier Jiones) who are holding this part of the layback. There is still no news of E Troop.
	15th		The Battery, less R To remained in action at Yasagyo during the day without making contact with the enmy. In the evening the Battery moved to Khampat and came under command 63rf Ind Inf Bde.
	16th		The Battery less E Troop remained in action at Khampat during the day. In the evening the moved to Watck and came under command 13th Ind Inf Bde.
	17th		At first light the Battery less 'E' To was ordered to leave Watck and move to Tamu. On arrival at Tamu ordered wee received from17th Ind Ind Div to proceed to Palal in the afternoon by the difficult mountain road. The journey of 45 miles took 12 hours and involved the most difficult driving conditions All guns got through without mishap and reach Palal at 0400 hours on the 18th.,
	18th		The Battery were order to proceed immediately to Imphal and rejoin 7th Armd bde, On reaching Imphal it was found the the Brigade has moved in a further 25 miles in =n the Imphal - Dinapur road. The Battery rejoined the Brigade about 1500 hours and found E Troop complete with their guns and the one three tonner they were able to get out. The area is very wet and comparatively cool (height about 3500 ft and the monsoon rains are due on a day or two. There is a great shortage of blankets and groundsheets and a certain amount of illness is inevitable in the conditions prevailing here.
	19th		News was received today that the Battery and 1 regiment of tanks are to stay here and re-equip on the spot. This is extremely disappointing bews as everyone has expected as early return to India and a proper re-equipment there with a chance of leave for officers and men. It will be difficult to re-equip under these conditions and it is not easy to see how guns can be used to any advantage at all. It is impossible to move vehicles off the main road and condition will of course bet worse.
	20th		General Alexander has gone to India to see General sir Archibald Wavell and as promised to wage a strong case for the return of thw hole Brigade Group tp that country. He is in full sympathy with the general desire not to split up the group which has functioned so well together in the past. General Wavell is expected to visit Assam on 24th May and will inspect the Burma Army. The whole Burma force is now safely evacuated out of Burma and is on Indian soil, nearly all vehicles and a great part of the equipment has, however, been lost.
	21st		The Brigade remained in the same harbour area. The rain has now become almost incessant and conditions of living are very bad indeed. The men have no ground sheets and few blankets and the majority are sleeping on mud. It will be very difficult to retain a high morale under these conditions,
	22nd		The rain has now got worse and it looks as though the monsoon has started in earnest. The hillside on which our tents are pitched i a seriea of running streams and even careful trenching does not keep it out. Thee is still no news of our future movements but it seems likely that we shall saty.
	23rd		The Brigade remained in their harbour area. It stopped raining at lunch time and gavce a chance to dry things out. After a conference at 4th Indian Corps HW who are at Imphal and have taken command from Burma Corps, it was decided to evacuate the Battery together with all gius to India with the Brigade. The news has cheered everyone.
	24th		General Sir A. Wavell, the C-in-C, visited the Battery this afternoon and has a long talk with the Battery Commander, He confirmed the news that the Battery were going to India. It has kept fine all day and this together with the arrival of alarge and overdue mail has raised the morale considerably and everybody is in god spirits. The C-in-C commented on the good appearance of the men.
	25th		The 2 RTR left for railhead and India this morning. It appears that the Brigade are going first to Ranchi and then to Poona. It is hoped to get everyone away in a week. The journey to railhead is a long and difficult one over the mountains, the road in places rising to over7ooo ft.
	26th		The Brigade remained in the same Harbour Area, The vehicles used for carrying the 2 RTR from the railhead and report that owning to delays a varius barriers they did not arrive at Dimapur until 2030 on the evening.
	27th		Another large party consisting of 95th A/Tk Battery, O.F.P, L.R.S, and 13 L.F.A let for railhead this morning, This leavess 7th Hussars, Bde HQ, R.A,S.C. and 414 Battery still to go. It is hoped to have sufficient vehicles to lift the whole party on the 29th.
	28th		The weather has improved in the last few days with only occasional showers and the harbour area is not in better condition. Improvements have been carried out in the Battery areas by laying flint paths. P.T. parades take place very morning and the men are very fit un spite of theconditions. There have been a few case of malaria and dysentery.
	29th		The Battery, together with 7th Hussars and Bde HQ left by road at 0630 hrs and arrived at Dimapur at 2030 hrs, The road was difficult and rose to 7000f ft. On arrival it was found that there were no flats available for the guns and a delay of some days seems likely. The 7th Hussars and Bde HQ left by the evening train and the Battery went into the rest camp near the station.
	30th		The Battery remained in the rest camp during the day and left by the evening train. less the Battery Commander and 20 men who remained behind to load the guns.
	31st		Flats became available during the morning and loading of guns and limbers started. It was impossible to obtain any help or cooperation from the station staff and it became necessary for us to do all our own shunting if flats, using a lorry instead of an engine. In spite of numberless difficulties, load was completed by 1630 hours and the party was able to catch the evening train. The party will have to detrain at Parbatipur to catch the evening train.,

June 1942 Commanding Officer: Major B.de J. PEREIRA.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1st		The train journey was more comfortable that was expected and a meal was provided later at night at a way side station. Breakfast was also provided during a halt at 0930 hrs. Our destination is Ranchi and our journey is expected to take about 10 days. The train arrived at Pandu (the ferry crossing of the Bramhaputra) as2350 hrs and the troops slept the night on the Jetty.
	2nd		The river crossing took place at 0730 hrs and the party were were able to catch the train leaving about 0930 hrs. It was impossible to obtain foof for the men during the jopurney and they had to rely on the rations there were carrying. The train arrived at Parnato[ar at 0400 hrs on the morning of 3.6.42.
	3rd		As soon at it was light the men marched to the transit camp adjoining the station, where there were given a meal and ample facilities of wasting and resting. It seems that the remainder of the Battery passed through this cap yesterday morning on their way to Ranchi.
	4th		The Camp authorities have made everyone very comfortable and have given every help possible. There is stll no news of the guns and it is not likely that they will arrive for a day or two owing to the congestion at the river crossing.
	5th		The guns arrived safely in the morning and flats on the broad guage were immediately made available for them.Transshipment of the guns on to the broad guage took place without delay and was completed by 1400 hrs. The Battery Commander and the leading party left for Calcutta by the night train. The men were greatly refreshed and rested after their stay at the camp.
	6th		The train rached Calcutta at 0630 hrs and the mere were allowed to spend the day in the town and were warned to be at Howrah Station at 1800 hrsm to catch the night train to Ranchi. The whole party duly reported at Howrah and left Calcutta at about 2000 hrs.
	7th		The train arrived at Ranchi after a change at Murri at about 1130 hrs and the party were provided with transport to reach the camp at Kuru abourt 36 miles away.. On arrival at Kuru it was found that the remainder of the Battery had just left the camp for Tori station en route to Dhond, near Poona. The lorry was ordered to drive as quickly as possible to Tori and succeeded in catching the Battery before it left. In addition to the Battery it was found that the 7th Hussars and Bde HQ were at the station and the whole party left by special train at 1700 hrs. 2/Lt Crump was detailed to leave the train at Barkakana Junction to await the arrival of the guns which were expected there on the 8th and direct them in to Dhond.
	8th		The day was spent in the train, and although tthe heat was very trying, the journey was made more bearable by a plentiful supply of ice at various points en route. The whole journey is expected to take 5 days.
	9th		It was again very hot amd there were a few cases of heat stroke during the day. The train arrived at Nagpur in the evening.
	10th		The train was running fairly well uo to time and is expected to read Dhond tomorrow morning, The country has been flat and uninteresting the whole way.
Dhond	11th		The train arrived at Dhond ay about 1200 hrs and the men were detrained immediately and were take by lorry to the camp about 2 miles away. The 50th Indian Tank Bde are in the same camp and until they move out there will be rather a shortage of room. They made our troops very welcome and put themselves to considerable inconveniences to accommodate us, The men are in huts and there are a limited number of facilities in the camp
	12th		The various units in the Brigade have been divided up among the regiments in 50th Bde, but is has been impossible to find huts for everyone and certain number of men are under canvas. The Battery were fortunate and are all in huts.The Monsiin has broken and the rain has been very heavt indeed
	13th		The Battery are in the 146 Regt lines and share a mess and canteen with that regt. A programme of limited training has been got out and will start immediately. It is hoped to arrange a leave camp for the men in Bombay.
	14th		The 146 Regt are leaving Dhond and when they go, the 7th Hussars will take over theeir lines, necessitating a move for the Battery to the 149th Regt. lines which they are sharing with 2 RTR. The 149th Regt are also leaving the camp in the hear future,
	15th		2/Lt. Crump returned today that the guns had arrived safely in the Ranchi area and had been re-despatched to Dhond. They are expected to tale 10 days to a fortnight by goods train to reach Dhond. The weather continues very wet and the men in tents hace gad to be moved into huts, thereby causing some congestion.
	16th		Training has started within the Battery. The signallers are having daily classes and it is hoped to bring them up to a high degree of efficiency. The remainder are attending lectures and practicing marching and rifle drill..
Dhond	17th		The road party of 149th Regt, have moved out of Dhond and the Battery have moved their lines into huts thus vacated, and are messing with 2 RTR. There has been a fair issue of necessary clothing and the general turnout us very smart. Training continued during the day.
	18th		The proposed leave camp at Bombay was found to be unusable owing to flooding and other arrangements have been made. The Battery is being asked to supply certain personnel for running the camp. The date is as yest uncertain. The health of the Battery is fairly good but there are still a number of cases of malaria contracted, no doubt, during he journey.
	19th		Certain men have made private arrangements for leave and these are being allowed to go off at the rate of about 10 per day. Certain officers have also been sent on leave and only the Battery Commander, Battery Captain and 2/Lt Crump remain in camp. Captain Shorten, Lieut, Hitchcock, 2/Lr Ward and 2/Lt MacAlister are all away in hospital, sick.
	20th		The leave camp has now been fixed in the Brabourne Satdium, Bombay, starting on the 23rd. 2/Lt Crimp is attending the camp with one of the staff. Training continues during the day.
	21st		The advance party for the leave camp start tomorrow 22.3.42. The men are having 2 weeks leave and the officers about 3 weeks. The usual church service were held in the morning.
	22nd		The advance party left by the Bombay Mail at 0700hrs, The Battery Party included in additon to 2/Lt Crump, 1 Provost Sgt. and 1 camp duty man, Training continued during the day, the signal class under the N.C.O i/c Sigs having tow periods of work daily throughout the week,
Dhond			Major Cox, the Brigade Signal Officer, has promised to cooperate in this programme when the men return from leabe and provide staff to give advance training
	23rd		The main leave party left by special train at 0800 hrs this morning for Bombay. Local residents at Bombay have promised to cooperate and help in providing amenities for the men at the camp, A warning order was received that 2 guns and 11 trailers to make up tthe Battery to full establishment were being despatched from Kirkee Arsenal,
	24th		The guns and trailers arrived by rail this morning and as unloading party brought them up to the camp. Both guns and limber are painted white and will require camouflage painting before they are ready for action. There is still no news of our own 6 guns and 6 limbers although repeated enquiries are made at Dhond station. There is sent to be considerable congestion on the line.
	25th		There are now only a small number left in camp, a total of 32 men, and training is the circumstances is difficult. It will not be possible to start various train until the middle of Jult.
	26rh		A warning order has been received in regard to our 'Quads'. although as yet no dispatch notice has arrived. There is said to be a shortage of vehicles in the country at the present time and it may be some time before we get our fighting vehicles.
	27th		Training continued according to a settles programme which provides for three work periods during the day in addition to the P.T. and sports training. Signallers are being divided into advanced and beginners classes under the Signal Sgts. The Drivers are to have a completed course on the theory and working of an I.C. engine, also transmissions, ignition, ete. Gunners are all to qualify as layers, and daily classes are held to this and, N.C.O.s have special classes on gunnery and developing the power and ability to command
	28th		Training continued during the day. There is still now news of the guns although numberless telegrams have been sent to all stations on the line of router. It will be necessary to send an Officer to find them if they have not arrived by the lime the leave party has returned
	29th		News was received that H.R.H the Duke of Gloucester intends to visit the Camp on the 7th Jult and inspect te 7th Armoured Brigade, A rehearsak of the ceremony is to be held on the 6th of July.
	30th		Training continues during the day, Some of the sick evacuated from Burma and the frontier are beginning to return to the Battery. The marlaria case are still weak on their return and there have been a number of case of relapse.
	31st		Training continues according to programme. weather is now very wet abd unsettle and the news from the leave camp indicates that similar conditions prevail in Bombay.

Note to reader: The Diary actually contains an entry dated 31st, for June 1942, and thus for completion it is recorded above, as such.

July 1942 Commanding Officer: Major B.de J. PEREIRA.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Dhond,	1st		Training continued according to programme, The Battery Commander and the Battery Capt have together worked out a detailed suggested new establishment for a Regiment R.H.A. working with an Armoured Brigade. The purpose of rhe new establishment is to cut out unnecessary personnel and vehicles in order to gie greater mobility. The proposals have the approval of the Brigadier 7th Armd Bde and have been forward to G.H.Q New Delhi.
	2nd		Training continued according to programme during the day. Owing to drafts of men arriving for the tank regts, there is likely to be considerable congestion in the campo when the leave party returns, It is still not known when the 150th Regt will leave the camp, thereby enabling the Battery tto move over to its permanent lines.
	3rd		Training continued according to programme. The Royal Corps if Signals (Bde HQ) are assisting in the training of the signallers and have attached a Sgt Instructor to the Battery for the purpose.
	4th		Training continued according to programme. A number of men have returned from Individual leave and it is hoped to have about 70 on parade for the Royal Inspection. The main leave party will not be back in time.
	5th		The usual church service were held during the morning.
	6th		The full rehearse all for the Royal Visit was held in the morning and this was followed by the normal training. An N.C.O. or gunner is required to give a daily lecture on subjects of topical interest and this has produced good results so far.
Dhond	7th		Training continued all during the day. 1/Lt MacAlister returned to the Battery from leave.
	8th		The Royal Inspection by H.R.H. the Duke of Gloucester took place at 1100 hrs. H.R.H was very interested in the war record of the Battery and commented on the fact the he had last Inspected us at Marseilles in Feb, 1940/ Training continued after the inspection.
	9th		The first leave party returned to camp from Bombay on the afternoon of 8.7.42 and accommodation has been found from them in the lines of 150th Regt. The second leave party left today. Training continued during the day.
	10th		A miniature range has now been constructed and regular classes take place. It is expected that the move into the lines of 150th Regt R.A.C. will take place in about a week's time.
	11th		Training continued during the day. Arrangements have now been made to purchase sports kit and equipment and it is hoped to start regular daily periods of sports training.
	12th		The usual church service were held during the dau.
	13th		Captain Chaplin, Lieut Hitchcock, Lieut Sheppard and 2/Lt Ward returned from leave today. The Battery Commander gave a lecture to the Officers of the Artillery Regiments of the 2nd Division stationed at Poona. Training continued during the day
	14th		The Battery Commander and Battery Captain went on leave today and Captain Chaplin assumed control of the Battery. Training continued thhroughout the day. Grants have now been received in respect of sports training and ordinary Battery training.
	15th		Training continued during the day. The Battery received 12 'Quads; and one 3 tonner. The Quads arrived in bad stated, at least 5 being non-runners and nearly all of them without tools, seats, etc. All footbal gear has now been bought and it is hoped to start plauing at the earliset opportunity. The Battery played its first cricket match against A/95 A/Tj Bty, which it won.
	16th		Training continued during the day. The Brigadier paid an informal visite in the morning and watched the miniature range.
	17th		Training continued during the day. The Battery Office moved to a new block in 150 Regt R,A,C, lines.
	18th		The Battery move in this morning to its new lines, The whole camps has now been over, and the A/95 A.Tk Bty and 65 Coy R.A.S.c. also moved in/ Cricket and football were played in the afternoon.
	19th		There was a Brigade church parade heldin the camp cinema.
	20th		Training continued during the day. Cricket and football matches were played against A/65 A/Tk Bty, both of which we won.
	21st		Training continued during the day. Football and cricket were again played in the afternoon.
Dhond	22nd		Training continued during the day. Our guns and limbers arrived in the afternoon. Five of the guns have been overhauled by 2 A.O.W., but the sixth will have to go to Kirkee, also all of the limbers. A sergeants mess meeting was held in the B.Q.M.S. store in the afternoon.
	23rd		Training continued during the day. Tow guns were sent to Kirkee for overhaul. It has been arranged that the officers will moe into their new mess on Augustt 1st. 2/Lt Ward has been appointed mess secretary. Football and cricket were played in the afternoon.
	24th		Training continued during the day. The Battery was visited by Sir Noel Beresford-Peirse K.N.E., D.S.O. He inspected guns and tractors. and is arranging that the Battery get a different sort of gun tractor is available, He also arranged for an amenities officer to visit the camp to discuss the question of getting more money for the sport kit. During the day the Battery eceived 11 15cwts.
	25th		Training continued during the morning. Games were played in the afternoon.
	26th		Gamers were played in the afternoon. The sergeants mess was opened.
	27th		Training continued during the day. The 2nd leave party returned in the evening and the 3rd went off.
	28th		Training continued during the day. Games were played in the afternoon.
	29th		Training continued during the day. Three carriers arrived during the day but all three were non-runners, There was a Brigadier's conference at Bde HQ in the afternoon to discuss discipline. Capt Shorten returned from leave. More sports gear was bought including boxing gloves and cricket gear Rifles, bren guns and tommy guns for repair and rebrowning were sent to Kikee
	30th		Training continued during the day. Football was played in the afternoon
	31st		Training continued during the day. The officers moved from 146 lines to their own mess in the 150th lines.

August 1942 Commanding Officer: Major B.de J. PEREIRA.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Dhond	1st		Training continued during the afternoon. The B.R.A Southern Army, Brigadier Stevens M.C. paid the Battery a short visit in the afternoon.
	2nd		Sgt, Davey, Gnr Dean and Gnr Norman, who were wounded in Burma, spent the day with the Battery, transport being provided by the Battery.
	3rd		Training continued during the day.. The T.O.M.E., Capt. Hammant arrived from Kirkee and examined all instruments and guns. He is arranging for all guns, limbers, and instruments to be sent to Kirkee for overhaul.
	4th		Training continued during the day. The Battery Commander and Battery Captain returned from leave.
	5th		Training continued throughout the day. The N.C.O. i/c Sigs, reports that the advanced signallers have now reached a high standard and may men can receive and send morse at 20 words per minute. Further vehicles arrived from Kirkee Arsenal during the day.
	6th		Training continued during the day. Re-equipment is proceeding slowly but does not appear to be up to Middle East standards. In partucular the gun tractors, the performance of which is very poor and on which a report has been submitted to Bde H.Q.
	7th		Training continued during the day. Cricket is now being played regularly on a netting wicket in addition to daily games of football.
	8th		Training continued during the morning with the usual sports training in the afternoon. The B.R.A. Southern Army will pay am official visit to the Battery on the 15th August and has express a wish to see the training programme in operation.
	9th.		The usual church services were held in he morning. In the afternoon the Battery played 2 RTR at cricket and won their match.
Dhond	10th.		Training continued during the day. The Battery Commander attended a conference on amenities for the troops at Southern Army H.Q. at Poona. A number of schemes are on hand for improving the amenities in this and other camps in the command.
	11th.		Training continued during the day. A conference was held by the Battery Commander in his capacity of Camp Commandant, of O.Cs, units in the camp to settle a number of points in relation to he duties of Orderly Officers, guards, etc.
	12th.		Training continued during the day. A start was made on camouflaging the vehicles already on our strength.
	13th.		Training continued during the day. It has been decided to continue Battery training until the week of 33nd, Augut and then revert to troop training under direction of troop Commanders.
	14th.		Training continued during the day. Owing to the breakdown in the train services between Bombay and Poona it seems doubtful wjether the B.R.A will be able to visit camp tomorrow.
	15th.		The B.R.A. had not arrived by lunch time, although due at 09.00 hrs and the special parades for his inspection were duly dismissed.
Dhond	16th.		The usual church services were held during the morning. A telegram arrived from the B.R.A. cancelling his bisit.
	17th.		Training continued during the day. Special signal classes have been started for officers under Sgt, Pounds,
	18th.		Training continued during the day. Sports training is now fully organised and cricket, football and hockey are being played daily.
	19th.		Training continued during the day.
	20th.		Training continued during the day. 2/Lt Crump returned from the Leave Camp Bombay and has resumed hio duties in the Battery, All Battery Officers are now present with the unit.
	21st.		Training continued during the day. Brigadier Anstice visited the Battery in the morning and watched the training in progress.
	22nd.		a lecture on escaping was given to all Officers ad senior N.C.Os. in the Camp Cinema in the morning. Training continued during the morning.
			Separate programmes for troop training have been prepared and will come into operation on Monday 24th. August.
	23rd/		The official modification arrived the morning from G.H.Q. Nee Delhi announcing that the Battery was to be increased to a 25 pdr. Regiment of 2 Batteries of 8 guns each. Until the name for the new Regiment and Battery is settled by the Authorities in England they will be known as X Regiment and Y Battery.
Dhond			The necessary reinforcements are to be expected at any time after 1st September.
			X Regiment is alloted to the 7th/Armoured Brigade.
	24th.		A conference was held in the morning between the Battery Commander, Battery Captain and both Troop Commanders to settle the future policy to be adopted on expansion. It was decided to allot each exerting troop to a Battery and build up the two Batteries on this nucleus. A provisional allocation of Officers was also agreed upon. The expansion will involve a considerable number of promotions and fortunately there are very many trained and .and qualified men in the Battery with war experience ready for promotion.
	25th.		It has been decided by Brigade H,Q, that X Regiment when up will remain in this Camp Area and that the 95th.A/Tk. Battery and units of the R.A.C. will move out to a new site, Training continued during the day.
	26th.		Training continued during the day. The Brigadier visited the Battery in the morning.
	27th.		Training continued during the day. Information has now been received that the esxpasion into a Regiment is to take effect officially as from 1st. September 1942.
	28th.		Training continued during the day. Major Williams from Records Visited the Battery and arranged for the draft from Base Depot to bring the number up to full Regt. W.E.
Dhond	29th.		Training continued during the morning.
			Major Williams left for Declali accompanied by Capt. Wise who is going to help select the draft.
	30th.		The usual church services were held during the morning including a Brigade church parade in the cinema.
	31st		Training continued during the dat. The new draft are expected tomorrow 1st. Sept. and the accommodation is the camp area has been arranged for them.
	.		The 95th.A/Tk. Battery have left the camp and Battery Officers are available for both Batteries.
			This is the last entry as a detached Battery, the new Regiment coming into existence as from tomorrow.

September to December 1942

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